River Town Times - April 7, 2021

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Jen Desjardins-Grondin stands on the patio at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. Despite safety measures they have put in place, the local craft brewery can’t use it due to the latest provincial lockdown.

G.L. Heritage is one of many businesses that are being impacted by the pandemic. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Latest lockdown impacting local small businesses

By Ron Giofu With the Ontario government pulling the “emergency brake” and putting the province into another 28-day shutdown, local businesses are left trying to deal with the impact.

Jen Desjardins-Grondin, co-owner of G.L. Heritage Brewing Co., said the decision to tighten restrictions is understandable, but the latest shutdown is “devastating” for businesses like theirs. She said the particular issue that impacts them is “the inability to service customers on our large, open air and extremely safe patio prevents us from keeping more of our staff employed and

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from generating just a little bit of recovery to help mitigate the financial impact of this year-long pandemic.”

Desjardins-Grondin said the “#SupportLocal” hashtag is more important than ever right now.

“Our region is so lucky to have the premium breweries, distilleries and wineries we do, let alone truly top notch culinary and retail offerings. Buying local, getting takeout and placing delivery orders can make all the difference for many of us,” she said. “Let’s just say it’s been pretty tough up to now, but it’s true, it will get a bit tougher for all of us in the coming weeks and possibly beyond.”

Desjardins-Grondin added: “We’ve had over a year now of focusing on business survival through constant adjusting, pivoting, evolving and being as innovative as we possibly can, all the while, investing in extraordinary safety equipment and precaution, employee training and the development of internal protocols which go way over and above safety mandates. We have always fully recognized that we have no product or services to offer our community if our customers and our staff don’t feel safe and comfortable every day. So this continues to be our top priority.”

Continued on Page 2

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Small businesses dealing with the latest shutdown as best they can Continued from Page 1 The fact their “open and very safe patio” is prohibited from being used is both frustrating and heartbreaking.

“As many people know, collaboration with fellow local businesses is a proud and important element of who we are and what we offer. And the many outstanding food vendors we bring in each weekend are also directly impacted by this shutdown,” she said. “They won’t be able to use our venue to sell and serve. For example, our great friends at License to Sear food truck out of Kingsville had just purchased all of their menu ingredients and started a lot of prep for (last) weekend’s menu at our brewery when the announcement came.”

Desjardins-Grondin added they have been working with the Amherstburg Farmers Market team for the last few months to prepare for our season opening at the end of this month.

“We are currently reassessing our plan to ensure we can open safely, as we did last year under similar, serious restriction status, and accommodate any new health unit requirements,” she said. “Stay tuned on this as more information will be coming shortly on our plan. We believe the Amherstburg Farmers Market is a vital community hub for our neighbours, and one which helps ensure the survival of so small businesses.”

G.L Heritage Brewing Co. has reverted to controlled walk-in pickup, curbside pickup and weekly deliveries of beer anywhere in Windsor and Essex County. Orders can be placed at GLHeritageBrewing.ca.

“We are so grateful for the support our community gives us and we look forward to reopening to welcome guests on site as soon as possible,” she said.

River Bookshop co-owners Richard and Colleen Peddie along with lead bookseller Lori Wightman are once again adapting to a shutdown as well.

“While COVID rules have definitely hurt our business we believe the science and support the lockdown rules,” Richard said. “We also understand that it is important for physical and mental health to get

outside and practice safe social distancing - that’s why we strongly support Open Air streets. They are a proven best practice in a COVID world.”

Richard noted the mid-December lockdown stopped all their live events and caused an early close to their successful Christmas Market.

“During the Grey-Lockdown our sales got clobbered,” he said. “Since we moved to Red, sales are better but still well below plan and we are unable to resume the many live events on nature, history, climate change, racial justice that are ready to go.”

Richard added they are still going to operate as best they can.

“Despite all that the River Bookshop is absolutely committed to increasing the economic, social and cultural health of Amherstburg,” he said. “Because books are magic.”

Lynn Sinasac, co-owner of The Village Shoppe, said they were lucky not to experience lockdowns as they sell grocery products. She said they are grateful for the community’s support.

“We are fortunate to have such a great community,” she said.

Sinasac said they have been impacted by the added expense of safety protections but she figures most if not all businesses have been impacted.

“I feel bad for businesses that have been closed due to the lockdown as their bills and expenses don’t go away,” she said. “Before you order online, please support your neighbours and their local businesses.

There is plenty to choose from right here in town and they’re all taking extra precautions to protect their customers.”

The Fort Fun Centre provided an update on its operations via a post on its Facebook page last Friday.

“LAST CALL for The Fort Fun Centre. Due to another month long lockdown and the last year of closures The Fort will be closing for good,” last Friday’s message stated. “We thank all of our customers, staff, friends and family for the great times. Enjoy beer specials, fish n chips, and pizza today with us. Tomorrow (last Saturday) will be our final day for takeout.

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Quirino Fiorini receives a COVID-19 vaccination at the Amherstburg Walmart recently.

Special to the RTT

Pharmacies OK’ed to offer AstraZeneca vaccine to those 55+

By Ron Giofu The Ontario government has allowed local pharmacies to begin offering the AstraZeneca vaccine to individuals aged 55 and over, with some locations across the province offering the vaccine as early as last Saturday.

However, residents of Windsor-Essex County are encouraged to call their pharmacy of choice not only for an appointment, but to check availability.

Theresa Marentette, CEO of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), indicated last Thursday morning that AstraZeneca vaccines were running low. People should call ahead to ensure there is enough vaccine on hand, if that is the one they wish to receive.

“Ontario’s capacity to get needles in arms continues to grow by the day,” said Premier Doug Ford in a press release. “Thanks to the determination and commitment of members of Team Ontario we are ahead of schedule and administering more vaccines than all of the other provinces combined. We are ready to dramatically increase the number of vaccines we can administer once we receive a steady and reliable supply from the federal government.”

Earlier this month, Ontario began offering the vaccine to individuals aged 60 and over at pharmacies and primary care settings. With today’s expansion bringing the total number of pharmacies offering the vaccine to nearly 700 locations, it is expected that this number could reach approximately 1,500 by the end of April.

The province also continues to work with primary care professionals to offer vaccinations in primary care settings and community locations, such as physician offices, in collaboration with public health units. This initiative is expanding from locations in six public health unit regions to offering the vaccine in every region across the province covering all 34 public health units.

“As we bring more distribution channels on board, we need a consistent and reliable flow of vaccines to ensure all Ontarians who want to be vaccinated will receive that vital shot in their arm,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. “With the increasing spread of variants of concern and case counts in the thousands each day, we encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated and protect yourself and your family. For those still waiting, please be patient as your turn is coming.”

In Amherstburg, the pharmacies offering the AstraZeneca vaccine are Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall.

To contact them by phone, call Walmart at 519-7361964, Shoppers Drug Mart at 519-736-5435 or Rexall at 519-736-1022.

The respective websites are www.walmart.ca, www. shoppersdrugmart.ca/covid19 and www.rexall.ca.

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 – River Town Times – 3

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WECDSB appoints first-ever female director of education tions including supervising principal, superintendent, executive superintendent and associate director.

“Over the last 33 years with our school board, Emelda has demonstrated that she is a qualified leader with superior intellect and integrity,” board chair Fulvio Valentinis said. “Time and again she has shown her commitment to Catholic education, her dedication to the betterment of our students and their families, and her tremendous leadership abilities. She continues to inspire us with her tireless work ethic, her professionalism and poise, her faith, and her passion for lifelong learning. She’s been with us all the way and we have the greatest confidence that she’s going to be an extremely effective director. We’re truly blessed and fortunate to have such a qualified candidate in our organization and that’s a testament to the way we have developed leaders here.”

Valentinis told the board Byrne has “incredible credentials” and said, “she continues to inspire us.” He also praised Lyons’ work in succession planning and that process is bearing the fruits of that labour.

Lyons recently announced that he would be retiring after a 32-year career.

“Emelda has a tremendous wealth of experience and is going to be a wonderful leader for this board,” said Lyons. “Besides being a beacon of inspiration to girls and young women who aspire to all positions of leadership, she has incredible credentials and an extraordinary history with our schools and our people.

I couldn’t be happier about the trustees’ decision to entrust her with the leadership of our school board.”

Lyons added he trusts Byrne to lead the board forward and praised her dedication and commitment to Catholic education.

Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee Frank DiTomasso congratulated Byrne on her appointment and also thanked Lyons for the work he’s done for the Catholic school board.

By Ron Giofu The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) has appointed its new director of education and made some additional history in the process.

The Catholic board has announced who will replace the retiring Terry Lyons as director of education and the board of trustees opted for an internal candidate and, at the same time, hired its first female director of education. The board of trustees appointed Emelda Byrne as the new director of education beginning August 1.

“I’m humbled and honoured that our trustees have the confidence in me to assume this position,” Byrne said. “We have an excellent team that has managed the past year’s uncertainties exceptionally well. We’ll continue to guide our way through this in the best interests of our students, their families and our staff, and will look forward to the day when things start returning to normal. We have so many reasons to celebrate in our schools. I look forward to sharing in our continued success and supporting our students as they move along in their academic and faith journeys together.”

The WECDSB board of trustees unanimously approved Byrne’s appointment.

According to the WECDSB, Byrne began her teach-

“Emelda has a tremendous wealth of experience and is going to be a wonderful leader for this board,"

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

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More vaccines are needed to help deal with COVID-19

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

PC’s invest in PSW’s, says reader I’m happy to hear the good news for Personal Service Workers. The Ford government announced more temporary wage increases for PSWs. The increase is going to carry on until June of 2021.

I think this is a good response to the need for both the numbers and the supports for some of the most vulnerable people in society. PSWs need to do the very best jobs they can in these critical times as Front Line Essential Workers.

PSWs take some risk in delivering first-hand caregiving. There are about 158,000 eligible workers in care situations including in the home and community care, long term care, public hospital settings, social services, working with children and in the community providing personal and direct assistance and support in the activities of daily living.

The Ford government is also providing the funds to recruit, train and retain 3700 more badly needed workers to lessen the stress and pressure current PSWs are experiencing during this pandemic. This represents one of the largest recruitment and training initiatives in Ontario’s history.

All of this is very good news.

Respectfully submitted, —Libby Keenan, Amherstburg

With a third wave of new COVID infections hitting home, Ontario is headed for another province-wide lockdown. The provincial government is reporting that ICU admissions related to the virus are skyrocketing, and that our hospitals are once again on the verge of being overwhelmed.

I understand that my fellow citizens are frustrated by continued lockdowns. I sympathize with them; my spouse had to close her business, we had to move to a new town, we couldn’t see her grandfather when he was dying in the hospital. We couldn’t attend weddings, or visit family. We’ve all had to make sacrifices which we had no choice in making.

The only way these lockdowns end in a manner that doesn’t see our hospitals overwhelmed, with our family members and friends dying in waiting rooms because they can’t be treated, is getting people vaccinated. What’s holding this up?

Our federal government is not following through on its promise of delivering vaccines.

According to government statistics, in March alone, Ontario received 809,000 fewer vaccines from the federal government than promised. That’s 809,000 Ontarians who could have received their shot, but didn’t.

If these emergency measures are to end, the federal government has to stop clowning around, get their act together, and deliver us the vaccines they are promising.

Respectfully, —Armand Anderson , Amherstburg

WPS – Amherstburg Detachment continuing to investigate suspicious fire

Memories of Yesterday...

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

The funeral of William Douglas Balfour, August 22, 1896. This was reported to be the largest funeral ever seen in Essex County, many arriving by a special train on the M.C.R. to attend. Balfour was co-founder of The Amherstburg Echo newspaper, and a successful politician who served as MPP for South Essex.

His death, the result of tuberculosis, occurred at the Parliament Buildings in Toronto where he had recently commenced his duties as Provincial Secretary.

Photo by Ben Lapierre.

The Windsor Police Service arson unit is actively investigating a suspicious fire that occurred recently in Amherstburg.

The fire was reported on Thursday March 25, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. in Amherstburg.

Patrol officers with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment were in the area of Alma St. and Thomas Road that evening and observed heavy smoke in the area. A brush fire was subsequently located, police state.

Emergency services personnel attended and were able to quickly extinguish the fire.

No property damage or injuries were reported, police add.

According to Windsor police, it was determined through investigation the fire was suspicious and an arson investigation was launched.

Investigators are requesting anyone in the area with surveillance cameras to check their footage for suspicious persons, vehicles and activity around the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Windsor Police Service at 519255-6700 ext. 4330, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.

Fraud alert - The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment is warning the public about a fraud known as the “grandkids scam.” Seniors in the area have reported getting called from people claiming to be their grandchildren. According to police, those posing as the person’s grandchild allege they have been in an accident or in some other sort of trouble and ask the senior citizen to ship them money to help.

Police advise this is a scam and that seniors and others in the general public should not ship money to people unless absolutely certain the call is legitimate.

If there are any concerns or questions, the public is requested to contact police.

Watch for deer - Motorists are once again advised to keep an eye out for deer near area roadways after a vehicle struck a deer March 26 in the area of Concession 8 North and Texas Road. Police caution that if there is one deer spotted while driving, there are likely more in that area so drivers are to remain alert in case deer enter the roadway.

-All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment

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Wednesday, April 7, 2021 – River Town Times – 5

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Terry Hall of Amherstburg was one of those getting a COVID-19 vaccination last Thursday afternoon at the Libro Centre. The age limit has been dropped to 60-and-over (born in 1961 or earlier) for people to be eligible for vaccinations at one of the mass vaccination clinics like the Libro Centre. People can book at www.wevax.ca.

Mary and Real Toupin of Ruthven drove into Amherstburg to get their COVID-19 vaccinations at the Libro Centre. Mary admitted to being nervous going in but said the process was smooth and she started to feel at ease afterward. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Rick LeClair from Kingsville got his COVID-19 vaccination last Thursday afternoon at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg.

The Libro Centre is one of five mass vaccination sites in the region, with three being in Windsor and the other Essex County location being at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Complex in Leamington. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Vaccine recipients reporting “smooth” experience

By Ron Giofu

Those 60-and-over who can now get their COVID-19 vaccinations at one of the five mass vaccination centres can be assured the process is quick, easy and painless.

That’s according to members of the 70-and-over crowd who spoke with the River Town Times at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg last week.

A steady stream of people were coming out of the Libro Centre last week after getting their COVID-19 shot, with those speaking to the RTT agreeing that it was a simple process to navigate.

Jackie Beaupharlant said she was glad to get her first shot and encouraged others to get their shot when eligible.

“It’s my turn and they are doing a fabulous job,” she said. “I couldn’t ask for better.”

Beaupharlant added “it’s very important” that the public get their COVID-19 vaccination. She stated if everyone gets their shot, the pandemic will be over a lot sooner.

“I can’t wait for the second one,” she added. “I don’t know what people are scared of. It’s the simplest thing in the world to do. It’s going to save a lot of lives.”

Rick LeClair drove to Amherstburg from Kingsville for his first dose and said things ran “totally smooth.”

“Every step of the way, there have helpful people to guide you,” said LeClair. “There’s no chance of any mistakes; everything is as smooth as can be.”

LeClair also believed getting a vaccination as soon as a person is eligible is something people should do.

“I think it’s very important at this point in time,” said LeClair. “This virus is continuing to spread. If people get this, we’ll be able to get to a point where we’ll be able to beat this thing.”

LeClair emphasized it was a simple process to go through.

“A little jab and that was it,” he said.

Betty Berthiaume of Amherstburg was pleased to get her first shot also.

“It was great,” she said of the experience. “Kudos to

those guys. It was wonderful.”

Berthiaume said it was a smooth process and encouraged others to get a COVID-19 vaccination as well.

“It’s a must. We need to do it,” said Berthiaume. “We’re protecting ourselves and everyone else.”

As people are asked to show up 15 minutes prior to their appointment and wait 15 minutes after in addition to the inoculation itself, Berthiaume said the entire process was about 45 minutes.

“Everything is well organized,” she said. “You are in and out. You just need to do it.”

Real and Mary Toupin of Ruthven got their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine last Thursday and admitted to being apprehensive going in.

“I was a little nervous,” said Mary. “It was OK. You just have to keep following the arrows.”

After getting the shot and leaving after the 15-minute waiting period, she said she was feeling better. The couple believed being at home for so long then finally being able to get out and have to do something contributed to their nervousness.

“It was very, very easy,” said Mary.

“It was well organized,” added Real.

Mary urged others to go out and get their shots.

“You can get out in the world and do things,” she said. “You don’t have to sit and home and worry about catching (the coronavirus).”

Amherstburg resident Terry Hall also got his first dose last week.

“It went fine. It was very quick,” said Hall. “I didn’t know I got the shot. It was painless.”

Hall said he had to ask the nurse whether the shot was administered because he didn’t feel anything.

As he wants to be around his relatives, Hall said getting a vaccination was key.

“It’s very important,” he said. “I need to make sure I’m vaccinated so I don’t get anyone infected and I hope they get vaccinated so they don’t infect me.”

Hall stressed it was painless and encouraged others to

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get their shots as well.

“It’s well worth it for everyone’s safety,” he stated.

As of last Friday, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) announced that adults 60 years and older - born in 1961 or earlier - will be able to register to book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment at one of the five vaccination sites. In addition to the Libro Centre in Amherstburg, people can go to the three sites in Windsor which include the WFCU Centre, the St. Clair College Sportsplex and Windsor Hall, the latter being the former Windsor Star building.

The other site in Essex County is the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre in Leamington.

Those attending the Amherstburg site should note the main entrance for the clinic is off of Simcoe St., not the usual main entrance off of Meloche Road.

The WECHU reminds the public vaccinations at all of the above clinics are by appointment only and walk-ins are not permitted. All COVID-19 vaccination appointments at targeted or mass vaccination clinics are for first doses only and will be scheduled through a single dedicated online booking system and can also be accessed from wevax.ca.

The new system allows for an individual or a couple to book an appointment online. WECHU also points out there are currently limited long-term appointments in the booking system as upcoming vaccine supply shipments are unknown.

For those unable to access the online system, help is available by calling 226-773-2200. Due to expected call volumes initially, WECHU notes it may take multiple attempts to speak with a call centre representative.

The health unit also asks people to continue maintaining a two-metre distance from others, limiting contacts to members of your household only, washing hands with soap and water thoroughly and often, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, continue using medical or non-medical masks in public settings, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or the inside of your elbow when coughing or sneezing and to stay at home if you are sick.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

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Town to look at long-time volunteers as candidates for street names

By Ron Giofu

Town council will consider naming a street for a former AAM Volunteer Ambulance service member but also wants to consider other long-time volunteers.

Amherstburg resident Denise Spearing appeared before town council at the March 22 meeting to request a street be named for her grandfather Harry Spearing.

Council tentatively agreed with the request, adding Harry Spearing would have to be vetted through Marsh Historical Collection and possibly the town’s heritage committee as well.

Councillor Marc Renaud took the matter one step further later in the meeting, when he made a motion that the town take a look at other community members who volunteered as candidates for possible street names. He floated the name of former fire chief Mel Mailloux and believed other people from that era are also worthy of consideration for street names in Amherstburg.

“My grandfather Harry Spearing was the original, founding father of the Amherstburg, Anderdon and Malden Volunteer Ambulance Services starting in 1962,” said Spearing. “Over the years, I wanted a street named after him but I never had enough information to bring to council.”

Spearing said she researched her grandfather with the aid of family members and the Marsh Historical Collection and said she was given 77 pages of information of his contributions to the Town of Amherstburg.

“A lot of the volunteers of that era in 1962 had streets named after them,” she said. “For some reason, my grandfather was one of the ones that was not at the time.”

Harry Spearing inherited his sense of community spirit from his mother Alice Spearing, she added, noting Alice was the first recipient of the Gertrude Kilgallin Senior Citizen of the Year Award.

“I don’t disagree with looking to see if Mr. Spearing is worthwhile,” said Renaud. “There are a lot of community volunteers and for example, we had a fire chief that lived just down the road and he was a volunteer fire chief for 35 years.

Maybe we have the Marsh group come back with community volunteers and community advocates so that we can look at that for review. I think we should do it on a grander scale.”

Among the information Spearing presented to the town regarding her grandfather, she noted Harry came to Canada from England in 1914 and took a position at Quality Canners on Simcoe St. in 1929. In 1931, her research showed he rescued two people from the water and also made a similar rescue involving a 15-monthold boy in 1942.

Harry Spearing was a member of the local “Flower Society” in 1934 and within four years he acended to the club’s presidency. He became an Amherstburg fire captain in 1945 and a member of the Barbershoppers Choir in 1951.

Also in 1951, he made sure the resuscitator machine used by Amherstburg Rescue Squad and the Amherstburg Fire Department was replaced.

In addition to helping found the AAM Volunteer Ambulance Service in 1962, Harry and other members would help pay for gas and maintenance on the patient transport vehicles out of their own pockets. The emergency phone number for the ambulance service in 1962 is now Denise’s residential phone number.

Harry also was a supervisor at Allied Chemical, # ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BR. 157 a member of the town’s # 281 DALHOUSIE ST., AMHERSTBURG ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BR. BR.#157 157 public utilities commis281 DALHOUSIE ST., AMHERSTBURG 281 DALHOUSIE ST., AMHERSTBURG sion, a chairman of the Branch hours: KITCHEN OPEN NEW HOURS Malden PUC, and a ferry KITCHEN OPEN NEW HOURS HOURS SEATING IS LIMITED Monday - CLOSED KITCHEN OPEN boat captain of the Boblo NEW SEATING IS LIMITED SEATING IS LIMITED MONDAY -Tuesday CLOSED- 11 a.m. toTASTY 7 p.m.TUESDAY Island ferry among his MONDAY - CLOSED TASTY TUESDAY TUESDAY 11AM 7PM MONDAY CLOSED Wednesday CLOSED 11 5 AM PM TUESDAY - 11AM - 7PM TASTY TUESDAY lengthy list of accom11AM - 5PM WEDNESDAY - -CLOSED TUESDAY -Thursday 11AM - 7PM WEDNESDAY CLOSED - 11 a.m. to 711p.m.

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Tracey Ramsey, pictured here with her husband Germaine in Oct. 2019, is seeking the NDP nomination for the next federal election in the Essex riding. Ramsey is currently the only candidate seeking the nomination. She was Essex MP from 2015-19 before losing to Conservative Chris Lewis. RTT File Photo

Ramsey looking regain MP’s seat, running again for NDP

By Ron Giofu Tracey Ramsey wants her old job back.

The former Essex Member of Parliament will be seeking to regain the job she lost to current Essex MP Chris Lewis as Ramsey is seeking the NDP nomination for the next federal election. Ramsey served from 2015-19 and the nomination meeting for local New Democrats will be held virtually April 15.

“I’ve been working for the last year-and-a-half for the Ontario Health Coalition as co-chair doing a lot of work for migrant workers and hearing from people in the area,” said Ramsey.

Ramsey said she has heard from a lot of people encouraging her to run again and she has decided to throw her hat in the ring again as people “need a voice in Essex.”

“With me as the area’s MP, you knew what you were getting,” said Ramsey.

“You get an MP who works very hard and that is seriously lacking. I believe deeply that Essex deserves better. I have a great passion for people and to make their lives better.”

Ramsey added: “The pandemic has been hard for people and they need their voice back.” She accuses Lewis of having “invisibility” as his trademark and claiming he is not out there working for people as hard as she would.

“We need a voice out there working hard,” she said. “It’s been too quiet in Essex.”

According to Ramsey, the NDP has done a lot for people in this area. When the Liberals proposed $1,000 per month in CERB payments, she said the NDP negotiated $2,000 per month. When the Liberals proposed ten per cent for the Canadian Employee Wage Subsidy (CEWS), Ramsey said the NDP negotiated 75 per cent.

“There are a number of businesses in Essex using (CEWS) to subsidize wages right now,” she said.

Ramsey said she has plans to revise how she campaigns since losing to Lewis, including using virtual technology that people have had to adapt to since the start of the pandemic. She said it wasn’t an easy decision to run again, but “I believe Essex deserves better”and said she has received hundreds of messages encouraging her to get back in the political fray.

Ramsey added that federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh called her personally to participate in the Building Back Better initiative which involves helping boost Canada’s economy and health sectors as well as tackling climate change.

The April 15 nomination meeting features guests including Singh, TimminsJames Bay MP Charlie Angus, former NDP MP Peggy Nash, Unifor national president Jerry Dias and OFL Equity VP, OPSEU vice chair and JUSTICIA for migrant workers Elizabeth Ha.

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“A Night at Club 277” being presented as an Amherstburg Freedom Museum fundraiser

By Ron Giofu A Juno and Grammy award winner is performing at an upcoming fundraiser for the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

Liberty Silver will be performing at “A Night at Club 277,” a virtual fundraiser being held on the museum’s Facebook page April 21 starting at 7 p.m.

According to her bio, Silver was discovered on the “Star Search” program that was hosted by Ed McMahon and has since performed for or shared the stage with people such as Bob Marley, former U.S. president Barack Obama, Maya Angelou, Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu, Celine Dion, The Temptations, Oscar Peterson, Natalie Cole, Gladys Knight and former Russian president Mikhail Gorbechev.

Silver said Black history is something that is important for her and believes the “predicaments, determination and struggles” is something that should be shared widely.

“I like to support good causes and good foundations,” said Silver.

Believing “a struggle for one race is a struggle for all races,” Silver said it is important to share the stories of Black history and how refugee slaves came to Canada. She added it is “great” to have the Amherstburg Freedom Museum on Canadian soil.

Silver said there are a lot of misconceptions, lies

“I like to support good causes and good foundations"

and stereotypes in society and it is important to show what the true culture and history is so that it may be shared.

“We need to share with each other how powerful, mighty and wonderous we are,” said Silver.

The online concert will be about 45 minutes, she estimated, with the music spread out with other messaging and events. She said there will be some jazz, R&B and rock with some faster and slower songs to be featured.

This is one of many benefit shows Silver said she has performed over the years, believing “you have to find something that is important to you and affect change.”

Silver said she has been able to perform numerous online concerts during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Silver also teaches music and is the curator of the Liberty Silver Foundation for the Performing Arts.

Silver has performed thousands of shows over the years, ranging from jazz festivals to the grand opening of the SkyDome (now the Rogers Centre) in Toronto and has also hosted her own TV series entitled “Centre Stage Chronicles.” She also co-wrote and performed official theme songs for the 1996 and 2004 Olympic games.

“A Night at Club 277” will also feature a dance performance from Jolie & Company, in addition to an online auction. This event is free to the public, but the Amherstburg Freedom Museum is encouraging people to donate.

The museum’s Facebook page can be found at @ AmherstburgFreedom.

The concert will also be available on the Amherstburg Freedom Museum’s YouTube page.

Liberty Silver will be performing April 21 at an online fundraiser for the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. “A Night at Club 277” will be presented on the museum’s Facebook page with those attending the virtual event encouraged to donate to the museum. Silver is both a Juno and Grammy Award winner. Submitted photo

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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

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Ontario Implements Provincewide Emergency Brake

By Ron Giofu

Your turn is coming soon.

The Ontario government has imposed a province-wide “emergency brake” as a result of an alarming surge in case numbers and COVID-19 hospitalizations across the province with it coming into effect last Saturday.

The government intends to keep this in place for at least four weeks.

“We are facing a serious situation and drastic measures are required to contain the rapid spread of the virus, especially the new variants of concern,” said Premier Doug Ford. “I know pulling the emergency brake will be difficult on many people across the province, but we must try and prevent more people from getting infected and overwhelming our hospitals. Our vaccine rollout is steadily increasing, and I encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. That is our best protection against this deadly virus.”

From March 26 to 28, 2021, the Ontario government states provincial case rates have increased by 7.7 per cent to 101.1 cases per 100,000 people. Current COVID-19 related ICU admissions are already over the peak of wave two and hospitals in regional hotspots will need to further ramp down scheduled surgeries. COVID-19 related ICU admissions are projected to exceed 650 beds in a few weeks. These increases are being driven by COVID-19 variants, which are transmitted easily and result in a higher risk of death and hospitalization, including in younger populations.

Measures include, but are not limited to prohibiting indoor organized public events and social gatherings and limiting the capacity for outdoor organized public events or social gatherings to a fiveperson maximum, except for gatherings with members of the same household or gatherings of members of one household and one other person from another household who lives alone.

There are also restrictions on in-person shopping in all retail settings, including a 50 per cent capacity limit for supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience stores, indoor farmers’ markets, other stores that primarily sell food and pharmacies, and 25 per cent for all other retail including big box stores, along with other public health and workplace safety measures.

Personal care services have been prohibited as is indoor and outdoor dining. Restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments will be permitted to operate by take-out, drive-through, and delivery only.

The use of facilities for indoor or outdoor sports and recreational fitness such as gyms are prohibited with “very limited exceptions” and day camps are to close as well.

The province imposed limited capacity at weddings, funerals, and religious services, rites or ceremonies to 15 per cent occupancy per room indoors, and to the number of individuals that can maintain two metres of physical distance outdoors. This does not include social gatherings associated with these services such as receptions, which are not permitted indoors and are limited to five people outdoors.

On the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, all Ontarians are asked to limit trips outside the home to necessities such as food, medication, medical appointments, supporting vulnerable community members, or exercising outdoors with members of their household.

Latest shutdown to last at least 28 days, stricter health guidelines and measures put into place by the provincial government

Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine plan is helping to stop the spread and save lives.

Thousands of people across the province are getting vaccinated every day.

As vaccinations continue, we need to stay the course to protect those we love. Wear a mask.

Wash your hands. Keep your distance.

Find out when, where and how to get vaccinated at ontario.ca/covidvaccineplan or call 1-888-999-6488 for assistance in more than 300 languages.

Continued on Page 9

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Province in the midst of latest shutdown due to COVID-19

Continued from Page 8 Employers in all industries should make every effort to allow employees to work from home.

The current COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open, will be paused when the province-wide emergency brake comes into effect. The impacts of these time-limited measures will be evaluated throughout the next four weeks to determine if it is safe to lift any restrictions or if they need to be extended.

During the emergency shutdown, schools will remain open for in-person learning with “strict safety measures in place,” the province adds. The spring break will continue as planned for the week of April 12. In order to support working families, childcare will remain open during the shutdown.

Provincial Liberal leader Steven Del Duca stated “Doug Ford’s response to COVID-19 has consistently been too little, too late. His half-hearted half-measures have cost lives and livelihoods.”

Del Duca said whle measures are needed, they don’t go far enough. He said Ontario Liberals would go even further as “Ontario families deserve a government willing to take decisive action to save lives and livelihoods.”

Ontario Liberals are calling on Ford to update his vaccine rollout to prioritize frontline workers.

“If we are going to keep schools open, teachers and education workers need to be prioritized in the rollout. Doug Ford cannot continue asking education workers, students and their families to risk their lives, without giving education workers a spot in line,” said Del Duca. “We have repeatedly called for essential workers in high-risk workplaces like warehouses and meat packing facilities to be vaccinated. Communities like Peel are on fire and the government is leaving them to burn.”

Del Duca added: “Essential workers in grocery stores and childcare facilities continue to have the most in person interactions at work, and they should be vaccinated both for their own safety, and for the safety of those they interact with on the job.”

The Liberal leader stated “we need paid sick leave now - before the new measures come into effect. It is simply appalling that Doug Ford has continued to deny Ontario workers the ability to isolate when they’re sick or awaiting test results.

Lastly, we need urgent and meaningful support for the small business owners who are about to be battered by these new measures. The small business grant should be tripled for Ontario’s hardest hit small businesses.”

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Essex MPP Taras Natyshak speaks about the latest COVID-19 shutdown during an online message he posted to his Facebook page. Natyshak believes “it didn’t have to be this way.” Screenshot

Del Duca accused Ford of abandoning Ontario residents “ time and time again.

His half-hearted response to the pandemic has been nothing short of deplorable, and he continues to pass the buck and blame anybody he possibly can. He needs to wake up and act now. Lives and livelihoods are on the line.”

Closer to home, Essex MPP Taras Natyshak posted a video to his Facebook page believing a lockdown could have been avoided.

“Undoubtedly, we know small businesses in and around our communities will continue to suffer,” the NDP MPP stated. “They’ve been exposed. They have been decimated throughout the pandemic and very little help to support them and to maintain a footprint in our community has been offered to them.”

Natyshak acknowledged the pandemic and the latest lockdown has caused frustration, anxiety and stress for “so many” as well as mental health issues.

“It didn’t have to be this way,” said Natyshak. “If the government would have put in protections around long-term care, protections for workers to have paid sick time when they feel symptomatic, protections around education in terms of lower class sizes, proper ventilation and resources there. This could have been prevented. There were models, there continue to be models that have done it right and have blocked or severely contained transmission of COVID.” Natyshak said he wanted Ford to succeed and that the province needs him to succeed but “unfortunately, the fact we’re heading into another lockdown shows the measure he’s put into place have ultimately failed our communities.”

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

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A group of people from non-profit agencies in Amherstburg gathered last week to discuss cost of police clearances and possible social media sites for the group. The roundtable discussions were originally initiated by Councillor Patricia Simone. Screenshot

Natalyn Brouillard, program director with The House Youth Centre, speaks during a roundtable discussion last Tuesday night. The event was the latest in a series of roundtables with non-profit organizations that were started by Councillor Patricia Simone.

Screenshot

Roundtable discussion leads to talk on police clearances, social media reach

By Ron Giofu The latest in a series of non-profit roundtable discussions with local non-profit agencies yielded discussions on how to reduce costs for police clearances and the group’s social media reach.

The group gathered virtually last Tuesday evening with the online meeting being organized by Councillor Patricia Simone with the aid of Cindy HazaelGietz. They welcomed Nolan Hennin, a case worker and community assistant with Essex MPP Taras Natyshak’s office.

Hennin stated he has been working with local police services and their respective police services boards on the matter and noted there is some “inequity” when it comes to what local services charge for police clearances. According to Hennin, police clearances in Windsor and Amherstburg are $25 per person, LaSalle

charges $20 per person while a police clearance in OPP territories is free.

Non-profit organizations have been expressing concerns with the cost of police clearances, noting many volunteers are seniors while other organizations noted they have difficulty covering the cost of the police clearances for their volunteers.

“It does get expensive for individuals who need a police clearance,” noted Hazael-Gietz.

The group resolved to unite and have letters from each organization sent off to explain the situation to area police service boards. Hennin stated there is “power in numbers” adding he will try to arrange delegations before police service boards if that is what the agencies decide to do as well.

Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) and Community Living Essex County (CLEC) both said they reimburse volunteers but CLEC executive director Karen Bolger noted it would be helpful to have reduced costs in that area as that money could be diverted elsewhere.

Joanne Fear, regional director for Safe Families Windsor-Essex, noted her group can’t afford to reimburse its volunteers and the costs are borne by those wishing to help.

“It definitely adds up

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Councillor Patricia Simone listens as representatives of non-profit groups discuss matters important to them last Tuesday night.

Simone helped organize another virtual meeting so that area nonprofits can get the help they need relating to police clearances and promoting themselves. Screenshot

really quick,” she said of costs.

The group also discussed their ongoing efforts including videos and social media.

Hazael-Gietz noted she reached out to 24 local nonprofit organizations and churches and was able to film 13 videos. Simone noted they went over well and that people have thanked her for the videos.

“They were not aware we had so many organizations in the community,” said Simone.

Simone added the videos were uploaded to YouTube but she questioned whether the group needed a Facebook page. Other social media pages were also debated with Natalyn Brouillard, program director with The House Youth Centre, stating the type of social media page will impact who is reached.

“If your demographic is younger people, go to Instagram,” she said. “If your demographic is adults, go to Facebook.”

Adrian Ninaber, pastor at Lighthouse Church, also wanted to know if the group could use the electronic signs at the entrances to the urban portion of Amherstburg. Zainia Brockett, vice president with the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, believed the group should also produce a brochure for those who do not have internet access.

Fear noted the desire to have a “one-stop shop” for people trying to see what non-profit agencies are out there.

Group members also talked about getting an official name for themselves though no name has been finalized as of yet.

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Local athlete gets invited to CFL regional combine

By Ron Giofu A local football star is showing Canadian Football League (CFL) teams what he can do with the hopes of taking his career to the next level.

Sam Girard, the current quarterback of the University of Windsor Lancers, has been invited to the CFL regional combine and submitted his drills virtually. He videoed two position drills, his 40-yard dash, his broad jump, bench press and other combine drills and sent them off to the combine organizers.

“I found out in November about (the invite),” said Girard, a General Amherst High School graduate. “We had to defer to 2022 or do it this year because of COVID. I decided to do it this year.”

Girard said while he hopes to be drafted this year into the CFL, taking part in the regional combine will ensure he is in shape should there be a university football season in 2021. He has to have his video submitted by April 10 but videoed his drills last week due to limits and regulations being put back in place by the province due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Girard stated he has enjoyed his university career, noting he has played for a lot of coaches during his four years there.

“It’s been quite the ride. We’ve had a lot of offensive coaches,” said Girard. “I’ve had a lot of fun and have made a lot of memories. I’ve enjoyed my time at Windsor.”

While Girard said he enjoyed his time at General Amherst, he said the difference between high school football and university football is “night and day.” He said it was fun to play football with friends in high school but university football is also

“I’ve had a lot of fun and have made a lot of memories"

Sam Girard stands at Centennial Park, where he played many of his high school games as a member of the General Amherst Bulldogs. Now the quarterback of the University of Windsor Lancers, Girard was invited to participate in the virtual CFL regional combine. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

fun yet consumes about 70 per cent of his life.

“It’s way more structured,” Girard said of university football. “It’s not even comparable.”

Girard acknowledged that many CFL teams don’t play a lot of Canadian quarterbacks, but still sees an opportunity so he is going to make the best of it.

“If they invited me (to the regional combine), obviously there’s a chance,” said Girard.

When the invitation came, Girard said he was with his girlfriend and they were happy to receive the news. He has been training since then, though it has been tough depending on access to gyms and with other COVID-19 restrictions.

“It was cool. It was exciting,” he said of getting the invitation to the CFL regional combine.

Girard, who is majoring in human kinetics, is hopeful of playing six to eight football games for the University of Windsor this season, but that depends on what COVID-19 conditions look like “We’re hoping to get out there in the summer and hopefully in the fall things are a little more normal,” the 22-year-old stated.

Parks & rec director says farewell to the town

By Ron Giofu A member of the town’s senior administration has bid farewell.

Director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Phil Roberts has retired from his position and is moving on, with Roberts as well as other members of administration and council members sharing mutual admiration for one another recently.

CAO John Miceli said he wanted to thank Roberts for his tenure with the Town of Amherstburg.

“I want to thank Phil on behalf of administration for all of his hard work,” said Miceli. “He’s led a number of files and brought a fresh approach to a number of things. Thank you, Phil.”

Roberts said his time in Amherstburg was something he enjoyed.

“I can tell council and the community without a second thought, I have never enjoyed working anywhere more than my working for the Town of Amherstburg. It’s been a real privilege being part of this administrative team,” said Roberts. “I’ve worked in national parks, I’ve worked for a couple of conservation authorities, I’ve managed the airport here locally for 23 years and then being a municipal bureaucrat. I can tell this council and this community that in my experience in 32 years of public service, this group of people is hitting way, way over their weight class for a municipality this size.”

Roberts said “it’s actually been a thrill” to work in Amherstburg and thanked the managers that

Director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Phil Roberts is stepping down from that position. He has spent 32 years in public service, the last two of which were with the Town of Amherstburg.

RTT File photo

reported to him including Annette Zahaluk, Anne Rota, John Olson, Sandy Lindsay and Rick Daly.

“They actually didn’t require my help very much,” said Roberts. “They managed their portfolios in such a stellar and professional manner that it allowed me the great opportunity to set up planters for Open Air or the build out St. Bernard as a municipal hub. It’s been a real treat.”

Roberts thanks Miceli, calling him “bigger than life” and someone who “is not shy on being gregarious.” He said Miceli has the best interests of the community and staff in mind and wants to make the community the best it can be. Roberts added he is not a “social media person” and said he has become “rather intolerant with a very few people who are ugly about what we do and what we strive to do.”

“Do we get it right all the time? Not necessarily, but I can tell you the best of intentions are there,” he said.

Roberts called last month’s vandalism at Mayor Aldo DiCarlo’s house “shocking” and said he has “grown tired the time it takes to put out the little fires.” He said the town’s visions for parks is what is going on in big cities.

“We have big picture, we have big things in front of us,” he said. “What is going to happen with Jack Purdie Park and what is going to happen in Centennial Park, in the visions we’ve discussed as administration, this is the kind of stuff that is going on in Barcelona, Spain. This is the kind of stuff that is going on in big cities, in international cities, and here we are talking about this in little ol’ Amherstburg.”

Roberts added he will continue to be a patron of Amherstburg and will come back time and again, “and if there’s anything I can do to help, please count on me to help.”

“I wish I could say you are staying longer. I do appreciate the time you have put into public service,” said Mayor Aldo DiCarlo. “I know you won’t be a stranger in town. Until we talk again, thank you.”

12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

www.rivertowntimes.com

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Wednesday, April 7, 2021 – River Town Times – 13

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IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM

Maria D’ Alimonte

65

Happy

th Anniversary

Anniversary

MARLENE & JOE DAMPHOUSE ~ April 7, 1956 ~

November 23, 1928 April 8, 2012

GreGory Peter reid 1965-1981

What we once enjoyed And deeply loved we can never lose For all we love deeply becomes a Part of us.

Too much loved to ever be forgotten.

In our minds and in our hearts every single day Missed and adored more than words can say.

Grateful for all that you taught us and all that you were Your legacy of goodness is one so cherished and pure.

With All of our Love, Your Family

Love Your Family

THANK YOU

KINDNESS ABOUNDS ALL AROUND US. A prime example of this is Wayne Tootle, a cab driver here in Amherstburg who has helped me out. I am sure others have been recipients of his generosity.

Let’s tell him how much we appreciate his acts of kindness.

Joyce White ______________________

SERVICES

SUDOKU ANSWERS

POWDER COATING PLUS, SANDBLASTING AND POWDER COATING, Quick Turnarounds, Reasonable rates. Call, text or email 519-919-3360, shadow@xplornet.com _______________________

HELP WANTED

GORSKI FARMS IS LOOKING FOR full-time tractor drivers. Experience with Autosteer equipment is beneficial but not required. Call Joe Gorski 519-977-4460. ______________________

HELP WANTED

FARM WORKER WANTED - We are looking for people available weekdays & weekends. Benefits negotiable.

Various tasks, including; general mechanical skills, driving farm machinery. Call Joe Gorski 519-977-4460. ______________________

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News Tips are always welcome!

Call Ron Giofu at the River Town Times at 519-736-4175.

SCRAMBLE ANSWER

RISEN

IN MEMORIAM In Loving Memory of a dear mother grandmother and great-grandmother

AntonettA VenturA January 17, 1934 - April 4, 2014 Her smiling way and pleasant face are a pleasure to recall.

She had a kindly word for each, and she died beloved by all.

Some day we hope to meet her, some day we know not when.

To clasp her hand in a better land, never to part again.

Always loved and remembered, Anna, Linda, Vince and families.

SUDOKU ANSWERS

FOR SALE

ROUND OAK PEDESTAL TABLE, four chairs + leaf, $125 OBO. Antique treadle sewing machine $75 OBO. Wooden tea cart $35 OBO. 519-7368356 or 226-787-9022.

Call after 12 noon. ______________________

They have three children, five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

They live here in Amherstburg at 3 Hainer Court.

Drive by and honk for well wishes.

IN MEMORIAM In Loving Memory

GreG reid April 11, 1981

dallas Kelly January 31, 1985 sally russelo January 8, 1987 rose Kelly April 28, 2009 lynwood Brush June 18, 2011 Grief never ends.

But it changes.

It’s a passage, not a place to stay.

Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith… it is the price of Love.

Missing you, The Kelly Family

Thankou! y

SUDOKU ANSWERS

In Loving Memory of

Remembering You with Much Adoration and Love Today (9th Anniversary) and Every Day Our Beautiful Mother and Grandmother

I would like to thank my family for making my 90th birthday so very, very special in these trying times.

A big thank you to neighbours and friends for all of the beautiful flowers, gifts, cards, phone calls and visits from near and far.

Also, to all the horn honkers, each and all made my day extra special.

SCRAMBLE ANSWER

Gert Bailey

RISEN

14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

www.rivertowntimes.com

Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Now may be a great time to reevaluate your finances, Aries. Investments could be the right path for now, but you may want to seek some professional advice.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 A message from a business partner could bring welcome news, Taurus. This might be the break you are waiting for at this juncture in your life. Career changes could be in store.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, expect to engage in a very interesting conversation this week. This person has not crossed your path in a while, and the reconnection sparks new goals.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, frustrations could arise that make you want to vent some anger. Channel your energy into something productive, such as a kickboxing class.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Obstacles at work or home interfere with your ability to work efficiently, Leo. Even though tasks may take you a little longer, don’t throw in the towel just yet.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, do your best to lighten the atmosphere around the house this week. Encourage others to kick up their heels and keep the focus on fun and fun alone.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Avoid any drama or chaos that may surround you this week, Libra. Others may seem on edge, but you can remain calm.

Quarantine yourself at home and the storm will blow over.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, even though a few setbacks come your way, your financial situation still looks very promising this week. Figure out how to capitalize on this favorable position.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 You are usually laid back and calm, Sagittarius. However, when something goes against your beliefs this week you are ready to stand up for morals or concerns.

Fire crews attended a call on Bingham Road Sunday afternoon. Thankfully, the call ended up being an overheated cord on a refrigerator and there was no damage to the home. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Amherstburg firefighters deal with two calls over Easter weekend

By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Fire Department had to deal with a couple of calls over the weekend, neither one dealing with major damage.

Firefighters attended a home on Bingham Road Sunday afternoon for a call that originally came in a smoke from a house. Firefighters determined it was just a compressor overheated the cord on a refrigerator and that caused the smell of smoke in the house.

Assistant deputy fire chief Ron Meloche said fire crews were on scene for a short time and there was no damage to the house.

“It was the appliance itself that was faulty,” he said.

There were no injuries either. Meloche added that the fire department asked the homeowner to contact an electrician to deal with the matter.

The other call came last Friday as crews went to a daytime fire in a marsh just off of Malden Road. A person allegedly set a small fire to help clear out an area and Meloche said the fire quickly spread and got away from the person.

Approximately one acre of land was burned, Meloche added, but there were no injuries. Firefighters were on the scene for a few hours to make sure the area was adequately soaked with water and that the fire didn’t restart or spread further.

Last Friday’s fire was in the 9400 block of Malden Road near the railroad tracks that cross the area.

The public is asked to use caution and obtain the necessary permits if they want to have any sort of outdoor fire. Meloche estimated this was about the sixth field or marsh fire the Amherstburg Fire Department has had to deal with this spring.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 This may not be a good week to travel, Capricorn. Look over your itinerary again and try to reconfigure them so you can travel later on instead.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, trust your gut instinct about big financial moves regardless of any advice you’re getting from others. You’ll likely see that now isn’t the time for spending.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 A bumpy start to the week that has you questioning several choices will smooth out, Pisces. The weekend will be very productive.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS APRIL 4 - Robert Downey, Jr., Actor (56) APRIL 5 - Lily James, Actress (32) APRIL 6 - Zach Braff, Actor (46) APRIL 7 - Franck Ribery, Athlete (38) APRIL 8 - Skai Jackson, Actress (19) APRIL 9 - Elle Fanning, Actress (23) APRIL 10 - Maren Morris, Singer (31)

WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to Easter.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

Good Friday meal served at AMA Sportsmen Association The AMA Sportsmen Association served a Good Friday chicken and pickerel dinner Good Friday with take-out meals being served to those who stopped by. Those who came to the Lowes Side Road club with children got an extra bonus as the Easter Bunny was on hand to greet them with treats and Easter wishes as they came in.

RTT Photos by Ron Giofu

Wednesday, April 7, 2021 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

Seasons makes donation to Amherstburg Community Services & food bank

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Food Bank, now housed within Amherstburg Community Services (ACS), has received a financial boost thanks to a local retirement home.

Seasons corporate office made a donation to the food bank recently, with the proceeds earmarked for the food bank. The food bank is currently housed in the Amherstburg Community Hub. ACS has moved into the western wing of the building with food for the Amherstburg Food Bank and the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission occupying the southeast corner of the building at 320 Richmond St. Seasons acknowledged that life has not been easy for many as the world enters the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the corporation stated in a news release that “we also recognize the importance of supporting those in need and feel it is essential that we do our part to assist Amherstburg Community Services in improving the overall quality of life and social well-being of local residents.”

Seasons corporate office made a $2,000 dontion to local food banks in the area they serve, with Seasons Amherstburg contributing to the Amherstburg Food Bank that is now operated by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). From left: Seasons dining manager Beau Veldhuis, Seasons leasing manager Heather Vandenham, Seasons Amherstburg resident Sheila Prescott, ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo and Seasons Amherstburg general manager Tamasin Dineen. Submitted photo

“During the pandemic, many in the community have gone out of their way to support Seasons, as we worked to keep our residents safe,” said Seasons Amherstburg general manager Tamasin Dineen. “With our $2,000 to Amherstburg Community Services, we recognize the kindness of others by doing our part to support those in need in the community.”

ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo said the nonprofit organization was grateful for the support from Seasons.

“We are thankful and appreciative for Seasons’ ongoing support,” said DiBartolomeo. “This wonderful monetary donation allows us to continue to meet the nutritional needs of our most vulnerable in the com-

“We also recognize the importance of supporting those in need"

Community Calendar

FRIDAY, APRIL 23 - SATURDAY, APRIL 24 SACU YARD SALE - Yard sale being held for Save African Child Uganda (SACU). Being held at 110 Angstrom Cr. in Amherstburg. Details to be finalized and shared in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/ sacuganda,org or e-mail sacuganda2018@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, APRIL 24 RIB/CHICKEN DINNER - Held at the River Canard K of C Hall. Supports the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. Order and pay for dinner and pick it up between 4:30-6:30 p.m. from the hall parking lot. Choose pick-up time starting at 4:30 p.m. and every 15 minutes thereafter. $30 includes dinner choice and a limited edition BYCOC glass (hand wash only) or $25 for choice of ribs or chicken. To order dinner or glasses, e-mail VicePresident@bryerswood.com. Please state your pick-up time when you order.

ONGOING COVID-19 MASS VACCINATION CLINIC - The Libro Centre in Amherstburg continues to be a mass vaccination centre for COVID-19. To book your appointment, visit www. wevax.ca or, if you need extra assistance or do not have Internet access, call 226-773-2200.

THE HOUSE YOUTH PROGRAMS - Youth programs at The House Youth Centre have resumed virtually. Grade 9 & 11 students meet Tuesdays, Grades 10 & 12 meet Wednesdays. For more information, visit https://linktr.ee/thehouseyouthcentre, view the The House’s Facebook page or e-mail program director Natalyn Brouillard at natalyn@houseyouthcentre.com.

COMMUNITY LIVING ESSEX COUNTY membership drive; Community Living Essex County has officially kicked

off their 2021 annual membership drive campaign with the goal of securing 200 members. Members can be anyone from individuals, businesses or families who believe in Community Living Essex County’s mission to support people with an intellectual disability to achieve their goals and dreams and to realize their value as full citizens in our community. Please know that as a member, your support may be expressed in a variety of ways including your time, your voice and/or your financial support through a Membership donation. It’s easy to join! Find out more by visiting www.communitylivingessex.org and complete the easy online membership application; or if you have questions, call 519-776-6483, ext. 246.

SENIOR ENGAGEMENT PACKAGES - Amherstburg Communities Services (ACS) offers free senior engagement packages. Delivered to your doorstep (contactless) each month.

Call (519) 736-5471 for details.

VOICES OF TOMORROW - With the support of a partnership between Community Living Ontario, Community Living Windsor and Community Living Essex County, youth from Windsor and Essex County are leading a social impact project promoting inclusive employment for youth. The project, called “Voices of Tomorrow”, is part of a series of Community Change Projects designed to empower youth with and without a disability to realize their role as active citizens and inform conversations on topics that impact their lives. They will be conducting a survey to capture youth experiences around employment as well as feedback from employers and educators.

Any youth (aged 14-29), educators or employers from WindsorEssex County who wish to provide their input are encouraged to fill out the survey, which can be found at bit.ly/voices-oftomorrow-survey. which can be found here: bit.ly/voices-of-tomorrow-survey

To place your event in the Community Calendar please email: mail@rivertowntimes.com

munity, secondly, it allows us to expand our food bank programs and services, which opens the door for additional volunteer opportunities.”

Seasons Retirement Communities has been a partner with Food Banks Canada since 2016. The company states it started to focus its corporate giving efforts on local food banks in towns where residents and team members call home.

Since then, Seasons states it has donated a total of $180,000 in funds and food, but noted “food insecurity is a growing problem that affects seniors, their friends, and the community in general.

Seasons is proud to do its part to support local communities, especially during this great time of need.”

FORM 6 SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

Municipal Act, 2001 Ontario Regulation 181/03 Municipal Tax Sale Rules

THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, April 22, 2021, at the Town Hall, 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5.

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Town Hall, 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5.

Description of Lands: ROLL NO. 37 29 230 000 05702 0000, NOT ASSIGNED, AMHERSTBURG, PIN 70554-0458 LT, PT LT 1 PL 240 AMHERSTBURG PT 2 12R13426; AMHERSTBURG, FILE NO. EXAG19-015-TT Minimum Tender Amount: $41,879.67 According to the last returned assessment roll, the assessed value of the land is $247,000.

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 20 per cent of the tender amount, which deposit shall be made by way of a certified cheque/bank draft/money order payable to the municipality (or board).

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to, existing interests in favour of the Crown, environmental concerns or any other matters relating to the land(s) to be sold. Any existing Federal or Provincial Crown liens or executions will remain on title and may become the responsibility of the potential purchaser. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers.

This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated taxes and any taxes that may be applicable, such as a land transfer tax and HST. The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender visit:

www.Tri-Target.com | Ontario's Tax Sale Community Info@Tri-Target.com or if no internet access available, contact: Elke Leblanc, Supervisor of Revenue The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg 271 Sandwich St. South Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 (519) 736-5401 Ext. 2252 www.amherstburg.ca

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001. The information will be used to for the purpose of determining successful tenderer of tax sale. Questions about the collection of this data can be directed to Paula Parker, Clerk at 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario, N9V 2A5, telephone 519‐736‐0012 x. 2238.

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, April 7, 2021

www.rivertowntimes.com

The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg Is recruiting for a Water and Wastewater Operator

Reporting to the Supervisor of Environmental Services and the Manager of Environmental Services, the Water and Wastewater Operator is responsible for the inspection/maintenance of the water distribution system, wastewater collection system, and storm sewer collection system. Duties include water usage reads, utility locating service for all three systems, water and wastewater connections, pressure testing, service taps, commissioning of new watermains, hydrant servicing/repair, some water meter installations and relief/aide to the Roads and Fleet Division during winter storm events. Other duties include responding to resident and contractor concerns, loading and operating heavy equipment, restoration of damages, and maintaining logbooks.

The successful candidate will have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12), and a valid Class DZ driver’s licence. Class 1 Water Distribution and Class 1 Wastewater Collection certification, as regulated by the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks is a requirement. Must possess a minimum of 3-5 years previous related experience and construction experience working with underground infrastructure.

Visit careers.amherstburg.ca for a detailed job description. Interested applicants are invited to submit a resume specifically noting qualifications and experience as outlined in the job description no later than 4:30 p.m. on Thursday April 15, 2021 to resumes@amherstburg.ca or online at careers.amherstburg.ca. Qualified applicants will be notified of the pre-employment testing date.

H

U

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O 2001, and will be used only for the purpose of determining eligibility for employment.

Statistics Canada 2021 Census of Population Council and Administration encourages residents to complete the 2021 Census of Population. Input into the census will provide Statistics Canada the data needed to plan, develop and evaluate programs and services for schools, daycares, family services, housing, emergency services, roads, public transportation and skills training for employment. Census analysis has a direct impact on our families, neighbourhoods, businesses and the community.

Statistics Canada will employ approximately 32,000 people across the country to assist with census collection. To apply, please visit: https://census.gc.ca/jobs-emplois-eng.htm

Please visit the Statistics Canada website at http://www.census.gc.ca/ to complete the census questionnaire available in May 2021.

The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg is dedicated to maintaining a fair and equitable work environment, and in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, and the Human Rights Code, the Town of Amherstburg will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment and selection process to applicants with disabilities. If selected to participate in the recruitment process, please inform the Town of Amherstburg Human Resources staff of the nature of any accommodations you may require to ensure your equal participation.

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