River Town Times - February 16, 2022

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Decision deferred on possible parkland sale

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

By Ron Giofu

A decision whether to sell two acres of the remaining 12 acres of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park has been deferred.

Amherstburg town council heard from the proponent for a four-storey, 177-unit assisted living facility that is looking at the northwest corner of the park but council also heard from citizens vehemently opposed to selling any parkland.

With the proposed development now public, town council members opted to delay the decision with the aim of garnering more input from the community.

Council voted 6-0 to defer agenda item 15.5, which would have declared the two acres surplus and directed interim CAO Tony Haddad to enter into an agreement of purchase and sale. Mayor Aldo DiCarlo declared a conflict of interest and didn’t participate in the debate.

Dr. Peter Nord, representing Stillbrook Accessible Retirement Living, said he is looking to develop the first of his proposed non-profit facilities in Amherstburg. Nord noted there is a need for such a facility in the region and said his proposed facility would allow people who need support to have “a safe and dignified retirement.”

Working with long-term care facility would also be part of Stillbrook’s plan, noting one is proposed for across the street next to the Amherstburg Community Hub. “The whole point behind Stillbrook is to work with the three levels of government to create an affordable

What is to become of the remaining 12 acres of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and the two acres on the northwest corner? The public will have to wait and see as Amherstburg town council has deferred a decision on whether to declare the two acres surplus and sell it to a developer of an assisted living facility as council states it wants more public input.

solution for the long-term for individuals,” said Nord.

Single people and couples would be welcome, he added.

“We’re trying to be community focused and meet the needs of communities across Ontario,” said Nord.

The price point would be $3,200 per month for residents including meals and associated services, Nord added, noting Stillbrook is working with Amico and Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare.

“We’ve got a lot of local partners that would like to see this happen,” he said. “We have a lot of provincial partners that would like to see this happen.”

Nord noted there could be as many as 20-30 jobs, should the development proceed.

Councillor Don McArthur asked why this wasn’t done elsewhere and Nord said the COVID-19 pandemic has been a factor. He also noted there was a proposal for the former Grace Hospital site in Windsor but the city chose another proponent.

Nord acknowledged the land is worth in the area of $1.9 million now but asked that it be sold for the

original appraised value of $900,000. He also asked the town to waive development charges and building fees, as well as for a height variance.

Councillor Michael Prue confirmed with Nord the value of the development is in the range of $30-$40 million and questioned the need for the lower land cost and fee and development charge waivers. He estimated that could amount in about $2.2 million in lost revenue for the town. He also asked Nord who he worked with in Amherstburg before the matter came to council.

“You must have had people saying, ‘keep going, keep going,” said Prue, with Nord responding he worked with “the previous CAO.” Councillor Peter Courtney questioned how the relationship with Amherstburg came about and Nord said he worked with Amico and Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare and after working on the proposed Grace Hospital project, he was then suggested to try Amherstburg.

Continued on Page 4

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

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Grade 8 students at École St.-Jean Baptiste in Amherstburg helped the homeless in Windsor by creating Valentine’s Day cards for them, with inspirational message on the cards. The cards were circulated by Street Angels, an agency helping the homeless in Windsor.

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Local students do their part to make Valentine’s Day special for the homeless

By Ron Giofu Students at a local elementary school stepped up to try and make Valentine’s Day a little bit more special for the area’s homeless population.

Grade 8 students at École St.-Jean Baptiste made cards with inspirational messages for homeless people in Windsor, with the cards being distributed through an agency known as Street Angels. Jessica Gignac, the teacher of one of the French Catholic school’s two Grade 8 classes, said the gesture fits into what the students are learning about.

Gignac said they are learning about having a sense of community and how to give back to it, noting the students will have to earn volunteer hours once they enrol in high school.

“We had a lot of awesome ideas,” she said.

It was a visit to a popular social media platform that led Gignac to Street Angels.

“I saw one day on Facebook where a community service organization was looking for volunteers,” said Gignac.

After exploring the opportunity and contacting staff at Street Angels, Gignac and her class as well as the class of colleague Corrinne Véronneau decided to do what they could to help out.

“I said ‘of course, we’ll jump on board,’” said Gignac. “We made happy cards with messages of hope and support.”

Approximately 50 Valentine’s Day cards were made for the homeless, and it not only taught the students about how to be a humanitarian, it also assisted with their vocabularies and how to come up with an inspirational quote.

“They were a little shy at first,” said Gignac. “It said it was an opportunity to put themselves in someone else’s shoes. That put it in perspective for the kids, for sure.”

It is not the first time Gignac’s class decided to help with a community service project this school year, she pointed out. They made cards for a boy in LaSalle who fell ill in an effort to boost his spirits. Gignac said “the kids felt so happy” about helping that boy that they were eager to join with Véronneau’s class and team up for the Valentine’s Day project.

“When I told them about this, we linked it with learning about volunteerism,” said Gignac. “They were really happy about it.”

Gignac added she had a prior River Town Times article up in her classroom from a few years ago when her class at that time did a clothing drive. It helped get the ball rolling about her current class giving back and doing something for the community amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was lucky Street Angels popped up on my Facebook,” Gignac added.

Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 3

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Ontario government “fast tracks” re-opening plan Public health measures starting to be relaxed as of Thursday Special to the RTT

With key public health and health system indicators continuing to improve, the Ontario government states that, in consultation with the province's Chief Medical Officer of Health, is “cautiously and gradually easing public health measures sooner,” with the next phase of measures being eased Thursday (Feb. 17) at 12:01 a.m.

“Given how well Ontario has done in the Omicron wave we are able to fast track our reopening plan,” said Premier Doug Ford in a news release. “This is great news and a sign of just how far we've come together in our fight against the virus. While we aren’t out of the woods just yet we are moving in the right direction.”

Last month, Ontario released its plan to follow a cautious and phased approach to lifting public health and workplace safety measures if health indicators continued to remain stable and improve.

According to the province, positivity rates have fallen and new admissions to hospital and ICU have been declining week over week, signalling that the Omicron peak is behind us.

Over the coming days and weeks, the Ontario government states these trends are expected to continue, allowing the province to safely accelerate its timelines.

“Thanks to the province’s high vaccination rates and the continued sacrifices of Ontarians, we are now in a position where we can move forward in our plan earlier than anticipated,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health also stated in the news release.

“With hospitalizations and ICU admissions continuing to decline, we are committed to maintaining a gradual and cautious approach to protect our hospital capacity and ensure patients can access the care they need when they need it.”

Effective February 17, 2022 •Ontario will further ease public health measures, including, but not limited to: •Increasing social gathering limits to 50 people indoors and 100 people outdoors •Increasing organized public event limits to 50 people indoors, with no limit outdoors •Removing capacity limits in the following indoor public settings where proof of vaccination is required, including but not limited to restaurants, bars and other food or drink establishments without dance facilities; non-spectator areas of sports and recreational fitness facilities, including gyms; cinemas; meeting and event spaces, including conference centres or convention centres; casinos, bingo halls and other gaming establishments; and indoor areas of settings that choose to opt-in to proof of vaccination requirements.

•Allowing 50 per cent of the usual seating capacity at sports arenas •Allowing 50 percent of the usual seating capacity for concert venues and theatres •Increasing indoor capacity limits to 25 per cent in the remaining higher-risk settings where proof of vaccination is required, including nightclubs, restaurants where there is dancing, •Increasing capacity limits for indoor weddings, funerals or religious services, rites, or ceremonies to the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance. Capacity limits are removed if the location opts-in to use proof of vaccination or if the service, rite, or ceremony is occurring outdoors.

The province adds capacity limits in other indoor public settings, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, retail and shopping malls, will be maintained at, or increased to, the number of people who can maintain two metres physical distance.

In addition, as of 8 a.m. Friday (Feb. 18), Ontario is

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expanding booster dose eligibility to youth aged 12 to 17. Appointments can be booked through the provincial booking system and the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre, as well as at select pharmacies administering the Pfizer vaccine. Appointments will be booked for approximately six months (168 days) after a second dose. To book an appointment online, individuals must be 12 years old at the time of appointment.

Effective March 1, 2022 The Ontario government states it intends to take additional steps to ease public health measures “if public health and health system indicators continue to improve. This includes lifting capacity limits in all remaining indoor public settings.”

Ontario will also lift proof of vaccination requirements for all settings at this time, the government states.

Businesses and other settings may choose to continue to require proof of vaccination. Masking requirements will remain in place at this time, with a specific timeline to lift this measure to be communicated at a later date.

To manage COVID-19 over the long-term, public health units can deploy local and regional responses based on local context and conditions.

“Thanks to the efforts of Ontarians to help blunt the transmission of Omicron, our health care indicators suggest a general improvement in the COVID-19 situation in the province,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “We are now in a position to lift more public health measures, but it is important to stay vigilant, as we don’t want to cause any further disruption to people’s everyday lives. We must continue to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 in our communities by following the measures in place and by vaccinating those who have not yet received their doses.”

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

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Parkland or assisted living facility? Town council seeking public feedback on issue Continued from Page 1 Courtney added such an amenity proposed by Nord is a need, but “what scares me is you never buy the first model.” He expressed apprehension about going ahead with it, but noted he was happy the details have become public. One of his concerns was that it was a sole source project at that site.

“It’s nice to be able to talk about this,” he said. “It should have happened a long time ago.”

The current administration recommended in favour of selling the land, with a report from interim director of legislative services/clerk Valerie Critchley stating in her written report, item 15.5, “given the overall financial and social benefits to the community, it is Administration’s recommendation that the Property be sold to Stillbrook and that the requested fee exemptions be considered on a conditional basis, pending administration’s final confirmation that they meet the criteria set out in development charges bylaw” Councillor Marc Renaud also expressed concerns about how much the town would not receive in land purchase and development charge costs. Nord said the town has to balance what they wouldn’t get up front versus “the benefits to the community over the next 50 years.”

“The need is going to increase dramatically,” said Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche. “The big question becomes the benefits versus the cost.”

Residents Sharon Colman and Diane Pouget told council they wanted to see the parkland preserved.

Colman believed “Stillbrook would make a fine addition to Amherstburg and is definitely needed” but added she was “in strong opposition that it be at the cost of parkland.”

Colman noted that Centennial Park is central and safe to walk to for many residents. It is in close proximity to three schools, she added, and “I believe it is unsafe and unreasonable to expect our children, grandchildren and

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students to walk along one of our busiest roads, the Pike Road, to use parkland at the Libro Centre.

H. Murray Smith Centennial Park was paid for by taxpayers, students and parents of General Amherst High School, service clubs and also recognizes the contributions of Smith, a former mayor, stated Colman.

Pouget, a former councillor, questioned where the $2.5 million went that the town received when selling the southern 15 acres to the Greater Essex County District School Board for the site of North Star High School.

She called the administrative recommendation “very deceiving” in that it doesn’t show where it states it is the parkland that is being declared surplus.

“This recommendation does not take into consideration the ramifications this would have on one of the busiest parks in the Town of Amherstburg. It does not take into consideration, that it would prohibit much needed green space for all our children, who live within walking distance of our three schools. It ignores the fact that our new high school would be landlocked. It ignores the fact that sending students to walk to the Libro Centre is dangerous and irresponsible,” said Pouget.

Pouget also noted the contributions of Smith and pointed out the town’s growing population. She suggested working with Amico on possibly relocating the Stillbrook facility.

McArthur questioned Pouget’s argument about the school being landlocked, stating it is the two acres at the northwest corner and not the entire 12 acres that are being discussed. He envisioned kids being able to walk to visit grandparents, have a close trip to a possible co-operative education site, and doesn’t touch Russell Renaud Hill.

He noted there is an opportunity to have critical healthcare infrastructure in the centre of town, but later stated there are two issues – the vision and the “nuts and bolts” of an agreement. While he saw the pros of the accessible living home, he added “nothing had been shown to me that I can support” later in the meeting.

McArthur believed the way the development was originally presented at a public meeting last year in which the letter of intent was first learned about created lack of trust with residents. He added he wants to hear from them now that more details have been made public.

“This is the first time the public has seen this. They need to digest it, so I’m in no rush to do anything (Monday night),” he said. “It’s a very important piece of property. It is absolutely up to the people so let’s give them the opportunity to weigh in now that all of the facts are on the table.”

Pouget said there was a letter from the school’s parent council that opposes the development at that location and believed that while it was needed, it was in the wrong location. She wondered if Nord knew what a contentious issue it is and that a 4,000 signature petition was gathered asking that parkland be saved.

Prue said council wasn’t able to see the petition and that in any community he has lived in, people are very passionate about saving parkland.

“This is the people’s park,” he said. “People love this park. People are adament they want to keep what they treasure and they treasure the green space.”

Courtney addressed the $2.5 million Pouget asked about by stating it went towards work at the hub.

“That has turned into a money pit,” said Courtney.

Meloche added that H. Murray Smith Centennial Park stopped receiving investment several councils ago

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Two other options for H. Murray Smith (top two images) and one for Jack Purdie Park (bottom) have been released by the town.

when the Libro Centre was developed. He added he hopes residents “will see the benefits of the (Stillbrook) development and make a rational and wise decision.”

In addition to wanting more public input on what to do with the two-acre portion at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park, council will also be seeking input on concepts put forth by director of community and protective services Heidi Baillargeon. There are three for Centennial, two with all parkland including a track, pickleball and tennis courts, parking and a reshaped Russell Renaud Hill.

A concept for Jack Purdie Park shows all recreational amenities.

Baillargeon said it is important to get feedback on the newly revised options and suggested they move ahead with those plans before putting in a swimming pool at the Libro Centre, something Prue had suggested.

A track at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park is part of the concepts, she added, but that could change based on what the town wants. McArthur pressed for provincial funding for a track, stating it is “unfair” for municipalities to have to foot the bill.

“Amherstburg kids deserve a track and field complex,” he added.

Baillargeon added there is a vision to connect all parks with trails in a way to keep the community accessible.

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Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 5

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Diageo and its employees make large donations to ACS and United Way

Diageo and its unionized workforce raised $65,470 as part of their annual donation drive for Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). From left: Diageo plant manager Josh Reit, Deb Court, Heather Lenson, community committee member with Unifor Troy Purdy, ACS community awareness and fundraising co-ordinator Peggy Thompson, ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo, Diageo site administrator Katie Trupp, Mary Reid and Leonard Pigeon. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Diageo site administrator Katie Trupp (far right) address a group of workers last Wednesday before cheque presentations to Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) and United Way Windsor-Essex. The Diageo donation drive raised over $122,000 this year, a new record, with more expected to come in.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

By Ron Giofu Diageo and its workforce decided to help two local organizations during its annual donation campaign which culminated with a pair of large cheque presentations last week.

The company and the employees, the latter being represented by Unifor Local 200, raised $122,592.80 as of last Wednesday afternoon’s presentation at Diageo’s Amherstburg plant. Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) was presented a cheque for $65,470 while United Way Windsor-Essex received $57,122.80.

“We had an awesome campaign for United Way and ACS,” said Katie Trupp, site administrator at Diageo. “We’ve been partnering with United Way for some time now. This is the first year we’ve worked with ACS.” Trupp said they were “over the moon” with the results and eager to share the proceeds with the two organizations.

Troy Purdy, a member of the community committee with Unifor Local 200 at Diageo, said he was proud of his fellow members for stepping up. He said he has been involved with the union for 23 years and they have been helping United Way Windsor-Essex for the entire time. ACS was a new addition this year.

Purdy added there are a lot of issues in the community from childhood poverty to people struggling in other ways and while there is a bigger need out there this year, he said that normally equates to less support. This year, the support was still there, he noted .

“For us to come up with this amount, I’m grateful,” said Purdy.

Diageo was also thanked, Purdy stated.

“They supported us and matched our raffles too,” he said, adding that other raffles could push the total to around $130,000 when all is said and done.

Josh Reit, plant manager at the Diageo Amherstburg facility, also noted United Way is a long-standing partner of the company. Regarding ACS, he added “we appreciate you becoming part of the Diageo family.”

Reit also used the term “over the moon” to describe his reaction, noting that the totals raised at the Amherstburg plant are greater than what was raised at a facility near Chicago.

“For Diageo, it’s important for us to make good products but it’s equally as important to be part of our

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Of the $122,122.80 raised by Diageo and its staff represented by Unifor Local 200, $57,122.80 went to United Way Windsor-Essex. A cheque presentation was held last Wednesday with (from left) Diageo plant manager Josh Reit, Deb Court, Heather Lenson, community committee member with Unifor Troy Purdy, United Way relationship manager Stacy Van Roie , Diageo site administrator Katie Trupp, Leonard Pigeon and Mary Reid. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

communities,” said Reit. “It’s a proud moment for me to be here.”

Stacy Van Roie, relationship manager with United Way Windsor-Essex, said it has been a great partnership with Diageo and was happy to be one of the agencies, along with ACS, given funding so that they may assist others in the community.

“We are thrilled,” added ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo. “This is one of the largest donations we’ve received.”

The funding will allow ACS to offer more programming as well as to keep the Amherstburg Food Bank stocked, the latter being a service now under ACS’s umbrella. The programs and services are inclusive and accessible to all, she noted, noting senior poverty and hunger is also an issue.

DiBartolomeo added it is nice to be recognized by a company the size of Diageo and offered their appreciation to the company and its workforce.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

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Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 7

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Son provides update on why local hill was named after his father

Amherstburg continues to grow, as evidenced by the construction in the Kingsbridge subdivision among other places. The town’s new population is 23,524, up 7.2 per cent from 2016. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Population of town, region increases latest census shows

By Ron Giofu Russell Renaud Hill is a well-known local recreational feature in Amherstburg, and Russell’s son is giving background on who the hill was named for.

“Russell ‘Russ’ Renaud was a lifetime resident of Amherstburg,” said Ron Renaud. “He was born on February 15, 1922 - 100 years ago - and was the oldest in a family of nine brothers and sisters.”

Ron said his father’s “roots in Canada“ can be traced back to 1635 when his ancestors settled with Samuel de Champlain in New France, which is now Québec City.

“Like many who were born and lived through the “Great Depression,” he was a street smart kid, a hard working survivor who, with limited education, became a respected community leader,” said Ron. “In addition to his proud service in the Merchant Marine under Commander J. Earl McQueen moving war armaments through the Suez Canal.

After discharge, he held down as many as three jobs at a time to support his family until 1955, when he was hired as one of the first employees at the Windsor Salt Mine. A 30-year career there, working steady midnights, as an underground maintenance foreman, allowed the flexibility for his many daytime and/or early evening meetings.”

Ron said Russ served as president of the Essex South Progressive Conservative Association and was best friend and campaign manager for the late Richard D. Thrasher, LLD. MP. Russ was also a president of the AAM Chamber of Commerce, past president and Life Member of the Lions Club, and a member of many other organizations including the Royal Canadian Legion and the Knights of Columbus.

“Russell Renaud was elected as an Amherstburg Councillor in the late 1960’s and served multiple terms,” Ron said. “The first arena was built in Amherstburg in 1969-70 at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park on Victoria St. He served on council with Mayor Murray Smith, Bill Wigle, Ralph McCurdy, Jack Purdie, Toddy Jones, Len Duby, Paul Hertel and many others.”

As chairman of the parks and recreation committee, Ron stated when Russ signed the awarded construction contract on behalf of the Town of Amherstburg, he asked the general contractor to move all topsoil, footing soil and excavation materials over to the north east corner of the park to create a toboggan hill.

“That ‘Hill’ has been enjoyed by thousands of families and kids over the past 52 years,” said Ron. Russell Renaud passed away Nov. 2, 1998 and in January 1999, Amherstburg council dedicated that “Hill” in his memory.

“As insignificant as Russell Renaud Hill has ever been to only a small segment of our community, it stands as a ‘four seasons’ testament to a respected, hard-working, good guy, a man who loved his family and his community,” said Ron. “He was a unique, ‘old fashioned’ role model who believed in ‘one’s word/the value of a handshake’ and he simply wanted clean, green, safe and free recreation for all! Long live ‘Mt. Russell!’”

By Ron Giofu Data from the most recent census has been released and it shows an increased population in the area.

Amherstburg’s population grew 7.2 per cent since 2016. The new census, compiled in 2021 and released last Wednesday, shows a new town population of 23,524. The population in 2016 was 21,936.

The new census shows there are 9,548 private dwellings in Amherstburg with 9,193 occupied by “usual residents.”

According to Statistics Canada, “a private dwelling occupied by usual residents refers to a private dwelling in which a person or a group of persons is permanently residing. Also included are private dwellings whose usual residents are temporarily absent on May 11, 2021.”

Amherstburg’s population density per square kilometre is 128.0 with the land area in square kilometres being 183.76.

As for how Amherstburg compares with its other Essex County counterparts, the town sits fourth in both overall population and growth percentage.

The top three Essex County municipalities are also the ones with the highest growth rates, with Lakeshore topping the list. Lakeshore’s population is up 10.4 per cent to 40,410 while LaSalle’s population now sits at 32,721, a rise of 8.4 per cent.

Leamington’s population grew 7.6 per cent, to 29,680 people.

The fifth most populated municipality in Essex

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County is Tecumseh, which grew 0.3 per cent to 23,300. Kingsville’s population is now 22,119, an increase of 2.6 per cent while Essex is the smallest municipality based on population as they have 21,216 people, an increase of 3.9 per cent.

The “census metropolitan area” of Windsor, which includes predominantly Windsor-Essex County, has a population of 422,630, up from 398,718 since 2016, or six per cent.

The City of Windsor grew 5.7 per cent, to 229,660 while Canada’s overall population went up 5.2 per cent, to 36,991,981.

While every municipality in the region grew over the last five years, it was nowhere near the fastest growing area in Canada. Statistics Canada ranked the top 25 fastest growing municipalities in Canada with East Gwillimbury seeing the most growth at 44.4 per cent. The 25th fastest growing municipalities were Wasaga Beach, Ontario and Airdrie, Alberta at 20.3 per cent each.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of Canadians in many ways. Population dynamics of municipalities were also affected, either by guidelines and rules issued during the pandemic, or by personal choices made by Canadians,” Statistics Canada states. “For example, full-time remote work has created opportunities for many Canadians to live in more distant suburbs or rural areas that would not have been deemed a viable option before the onset of the pandemic.”

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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

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The Ontario government has extended the deadline to renew health cards to Sept. 30.

The announcement was made by the province last week. Special to the RTT

Ontario extending health card renewal requirement Special to the RTT The Ontario government has announced it is extending the requirement to renew health cards until September 30.

The announcement was made by the province last Wednesday.

"In response to the pandemic our government extended the renewal requirements for Ontario health cards," said Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliott in a press release. "While the majority of Ontarians have continued to renew their documents throughout the pandemic, we are committed to ensuring all Ontarians have the opportunity to renew while continuing to access the care they need, when they need it.”

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A new walk-in clinic is now open at the Amherstburg Health Care Centre and a ribbon cutton was held last week. From left: Amherstburg Health Care Centre owner Luigi DiPierdomenico, Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche, Dr. Sameh Gaid and RPN Cheyenne Myers. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

New physician on-site walk-in clinic opens in Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

A new doctor has set up shop in Amherstburg.

Dr. Sameh “Sam” Gaid will be operating out of the Amherstburg Health Care Centre. Gaid recently joined the team at the clinic after moving to the area from Saskatchewan.

“He has moved down to the area to practise with us,” said Luigi DiPierdomenico, owner of the Amherstburg Health Care Centre. “He’s interested in starting a family practise and starting a walk-in clinic at the same time.”

The walk-in clinic opened its doors this past Tuesday. Currently, Dr. Gaid will be working out of the clinic Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m.6 p.m. with the aim of expanding those hours in the spring.

“If the demand is overwhelming, I’m sure he’ll provide a lot more here,” he said.

Dr. Gaid is currently accepting new patients and DiPierdomenico emphasized the clinic is offering in-person treatment and not telemedicine.

“Sam is here to provide the services here,” he said.

Dr. Gaid joked he was hoping the move to southwestern Ontario would have provided warmer weather, but he arrived in the Feb. 2 snowstorm. Joking aside, he said he and his family want to be in a smaller community and not in a big city and feels that practising in Amherstburg will allow him that opportunity.

“This area is what I am looking for,” said Dr. Gaid. “We’re going to stay and serve the community. I believe this is mutually beneficial.”

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held last Wednesday morning with Dr. Gaid, DiPierdomenico and Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche. Meloche stated there is a need for medical services in Amherstburg and believed more doctors will translate into more people considering the town if they are moving to the area from out-of-town.

“Amherstburg is a growing municipality,” said Meloche. “Family medicine is going to be an important service to our community. Having more options and more (services) available can influence people when they are looking at where they want to go.”

The deputy mayor added: “We welcome him and we’ll support him in any way we can.”

Dr. Gaid will be supported by Cheyenne Myers, a registered practical nurse (RPN), who has also joined the team at the Amherstburg Health Care Centre.

DiPierdomenico stated the health care centre is looking to serve pediatrics to geriatrics “and everything in between.”

The Amherstburg Health Care Centre is located at 433 Sandwich St. S. For more information and a complete list of services offered, visit www.amhertsburghcc.ca or call 519-736-3323.

www.rivertowntimes.com

NDP nominates Ron LeClair as its candidate for next provincial election

By Ron Giofu

With Taras Natyshak choosing to leave politics, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has found his successor as its Essex candidate.

Ron LeClair was nominated as the Essex NDP candidate Sunday afternoon during a virtual nomination meeting. He was officially nominated by Natyshak, the current Member of Provincial Parliament, and hopes to become the MPP himself in the June 2 provincial election.

LeClair, a retired inspector with the Windsor Police Service and current Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee with the Greater Essex County District School Board, pointed out being an NDP candidate is something not new to his family as his father-in-law ran for the NDP federally in the early 1960’s.

“Why the NDP?” said LeClair. “It’s simple. We can do better. Ontarians deserve better.”

LeClair said the Progressive Conservative government under Premier Doug Ford started their mandate by cutting healthcare and “forced education workers onto the streets” to get a contract.

“We’ve had to fight for every single education dollar,” he said. “Ford eliminated paid sick days and froze minimum wage.”

LeClair accused the provincial government of turning a blind eye to regulations and inspections in long-term care homes. He added that Ontario remains the only province not to sign on to a national daycare program for working family.

“The Ford Government has failed us with its continuous policies that are built on neglect and panic,” said LeClair. “Make no mistake, another Ford Government will inflict deep cuts to healthcare and education. Only the next round of cuts will be deeper and likely more painful than we’ve ever seen. We can do so much better.”

An NDP government will “restore education to its proper place, one that supports all learners,” LeClair pledged. He added that New Democrats will ensure the healthcare system is properly funded.

“We’ll ensure those that need care will get the care they deserve,” he added. “That includes improving EMS so when you call an ambulance, you know one is coming.”

New Democrats will “work with our partners in the auto sector” to transition to green vehicles and “build a green economy together.” He also pledged that an NDP government will support working families with affordable childcare so parents can have a career and raise a family.

“My friends, there is so much we can do,” he told the virtual audience. “I know we can do better. I know Ontarians deserve better and I also know we can win Essex with your help.”

LeClair and several other speakers thanked Natyshak for his service, as he has been the MPP for Essex since

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Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 9

Policing activity statistics released by Windsor Police Service

By Ron Giofu

Ron LeClair addresses the virtual audience during his nomination meeting as the provincial NDP candidate for the riding of Essex. He is currently the Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee for the Greater Essex County District School Board. Screenshot

being first elected in 2011. Natyshak said “I’m leaving a job that I love” but vowed to work with LeClair to keep the riding orange.

“I want (LeClair) to serve and continue to serve,” said Natyshak.

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath was also on the call, and believed LeClair will become an important member of her caucus, if elected. She also thanked Natyshak for being “a key representative in our caucus from Day 1.”

Horwath criticized Ford throughout her talk, accusing the PC government of “sitting on money” and not helping people like he could have during a pandemic, including stating that schools are not as safe as they could be.

Horwath added Ford’s “big box buddies” have done well during the pandemic while small business suffered, and added cuts have also hurt public health units and the long-term care sector.

“What we know is Doug Ford’s buddies do alright.

The rest of us pay for that. That’s not the way to run a province,” she said.

Horwath also ripped the Liberals, stating “the last thing we need is to go back to a Liberal government.”

She believed the Liberals had 15 years to make people’s lives better and didn’t, saying they brought in “hallway medicine,” sold off Hydro One, and “continued to privatize healthcare” and closed schools.

“I think it’s clear we need a party to stand up for every day people,” said Horwath.

The Windsor Police Service released the statistics for Amherstburg in terms of how many calls were received and for what in 2021.

The figures were made public via the Windsor Police Services Board agenda, with the online meeting being held last Thursday afternoon. The data shows that 5,813 dispatch generated incidents came in last year. In terms of provincial offenses, the bulk of the 2,103 reported offenses were for traffic matters as they totalled 1,996 with 75 in December. The latter was the least amount reported in 2021 with the. most being the 238 that were reported in April.

A total of 78 Part III summons were issued in Amherstburg last year, the figures indicated, with two in December. There were four liquor offenses listed for the year and 25 “other provincial offenses” in 2021.

Of the crime statistics listed, the most were for fraud complaints as 70 such matters came in during 2021. The highest monthly total was 11 complaints in November. The second highest total of crime offenses were 62 charges of theft under $5,000, the highest monthly total being 14 in April.

Conversely, there were five charges of theft over $5,000 in Amherstburg last year, with two of them being in September.

There were 50 charges of assault during the course of last year with the same number of mischiefs also being reported. November had the highest number of mischief complaints with eight while March was the busiest for assaults with 11.

A total of 41 break-and-enters were reported in Amherstburg during the course of 2021. The most breakand-enters during any one month was six, with that happening in both April and August.

There were 21 impaired driving charges in Amherstburg for the year, with six being in April. In months either leading up to or during the holiday season, there were five total with three in November and two in December.

Of the remaining 467 crime-related offenses in Amherstburg last year, there were two robberies, eight drug-related offenses, nine, firearms offenses, two arson/fire calls, six possession of stolen goods charges and another 141 listed as “other criminal code” charges.

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

www.rivertowntimes.com

Golfview subdivision residents voice concerns over dog park survey

By Ron Giofu

Residents in the Golfview subdivision noticed a nearby park is in a survey about the location of a possible, future dog park and are voicing concerns about it.

A group of about ten residents met with Councillor Don McArthur Saturday morning in the garage of John and Michelle Macri, whose home is one of those that back onto the park.

“We’re totally against a dog park here,” said John. He said they like dogs and don’t oppose a dog park somewhere in Amherstburg, but not at that location.

Peggy Thompson, another resident of the subdivision believed “a residential neighbourhood is not the location for a dog park” and said there were no direct mail-outs to residents saying the park was on the survey.

Many residents are seniors and are not on social media, she noted.

There were a number of concerns residents have, Thompson contin-

ued, including accessibility and proximity to wetlands and wildlife.

“We’ve been encouraging everyone to fill out the survey,” she said, adding that a feral cat colony was also once proposed for the park several years ago before residents spoke up.

McArthur said no decision has been made by town council on the matter, and that it was a survey that was commissioned by administration to gather public input.

“It was just put on a survey,” said McArthur.

“That’s all that has happened.”

Other parks included on the survey include Ranta Park, where a dog park has been originally proposed, Anderdon Park and the Libro Centre. The survey is available on the town’s feedback website www. talktheburg.ca.

Thompson said “we can’t take a chance” that other residents in Amherstburg might choose Golfview Park and that be the recommendation that comes before town

council. She suggested it be removed entirely from the survey as residents don’t prefer to have it near their homes.

“Clearly, we don’t want it in our neighbourhood,” she said.

McArthur said he wouldn’t object to bringing the views of the residents to town council, but he didn’t want to “torpedo” the works of director of community and protective services Heidi Baillargeon and micromanage her job. He added he filled out a survey and chose the Libro Centre as his preferred choice.

“I want a dog park,” he told residents. “I don’t think Golfview is the right place.”

Lena Lazanja, another Golfview subdivision resident, said there is an abundance of wildlife and birds in the park and they don’t want that disturbed.

“It’s become kind of a paradise in a residential area,” said Lazanja.

Lazanja believed adding a dog park in that area

A group of residents from the Golfview subdivision met with Councillor Don McArthur Saturday morning over concerns of a dog park in their neighbourhood. Golfview Park is one of four local parks included in a “Talk the Burg” survey asking about locations, with others including the Libro Centre, Ranta Park and Anderdon Park. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

would be a detriment.

“The damage it would do to a fragile ecosystem is irreparable,” she said, adding the fact is an ecosystem is enough reason she feels is enough to remove it from the survey.

Michelle Macri added she has ten years of market research experience and believed the survey was “flawed” with how it is distributed being part of the problem.

Heidi Baillargeon, director of community and protective services, told the RTT Monday that she has heard from resi-

David Joseph Racys

dents on both sides of the issue and said that’s why it was decided to put Golfview Park on the survey. She believed the town was doing its due diligence by including it on the survey.

“You’re not going to know the answers unless you ask the questions,” she said.

The Libro Centre is a preferred option for a dog park, and that is the opinion of those who have filled out the survey thus far. It could lead into the 2km trail that is planned to surround the Libro Centre property, Baillargeon added, should that

be the option chosen.

Should the dog park not be put into Golfview, Baillargeon has visions that include paved trails for accessibility, interpretive signage to identify species in the area, and a small parking area.

“There’s a beautiful natural area back there,” she said, of Golfview.

The survey will be on the Talk The Burg through Feb. 28. Hard copies of the survey can be picked up in the vestibules at Amherstburg Town Hall at 271 Sandwich St. S., and the Libro Centre, located at 3295 Meloche Road.

April 10, 1962 - February 9, 2022

Ronald Garnet Gibb November 1, 1937 – February 6, 2022

It is with broken hearts we announce the passing of Ron at the age of 84 following complications from Covid.

Beloved husband of Pam for 30 years.

Former spouse of Bonnie (nee Trimble). Cherished brother of Barb Sunderland (Neil), Carl, and Donna Crawford (Wayne).

Predeceased by brother Doug (Fran). Devoted father of David (Colleen), Stephen ( Jacquie), Debbie D’Aloisio ( Joe), Lindsay Drozdz (Rob), and Craig Miller. Sadly, missed by grandchildren Joel, Emily, Ellen, Celine, Evan, Phoebe, Keely, Abbey, Ashton, Logan, and Finley, and great grandchildren Ethan and Hudson.

Ron was a popular teacher/principal in Essex County for thirty-five years. He had an uncanny ability to remember past students who approached him everywhere he went.

A sports fanatic, he was always involved in coaching baseball, basketball, volleyball and track. As a retiree, he loved playing slo-pitch and volleyball, singing with the Sun Parlor Barbershop Society and the Guys Who Like To Sing, catching the news with his morning coffee buddies, and following grandkids’ sports and activities, as well as spending time with family. Ron was always actively recruiting others to join in the fun, and many retirees did.

At home he loved gardening, woodworking, feeding the birds, and spending time with his beloved cats and dogs.

He often said how lucky he was.

Many thanks to the staff at Windsor Regional Hospital, especially special Nurse Emily, for the wonderful care in such difficult circumstances.

Cremation has taken place.

The life celebration will take place in the spring.

It is with saddened hearts that the family of Dave Racys announces his passing.

Born in Timmins, Dave was the son of the late Wally and the late Katherine Racys. Beloved husband to Natalie Racys. Survived by his sister Joanna Anderson (Peter) and predeceased by his sister Christine (the late William Parnell). Dave will also be missed by his extended family and friends.

As per David’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE, 519254-2585.

Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca

Melvin “Mel” Hagarty November 17, 1933 - February 9, 2022

Loving husband of Shirley and predeceased by his wife of 53 years, Lorraine (2009). Sadly missed by daughters Bunny (Gary) Bezaire, Sherry (Lee) Palmer, and son Mark (Lisa) Hagarty. Pipi of Ryan Fuller, Gary Bezaire, Timmy Fuller, Jocelyn Hagarty, and proud “Pip 2” to 10 great grandchildren. Dear stepfather to Brad (Dianne) Armitage, Dean (Shauna) Armitage, Michelle (Don) Jeffrey, Jennifer Armitage, and “Grandpa Mel” to 9 step grandchildren and 4 step greatgranddaughters.

Mel was a Korean War Veteran and a member of the RCL Branch 157, the RCD Association and CAW 444.

At his request there will be no funeral or service and cremation has taken place.

You may leave your condolences online at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca

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Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 11

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Admirals win fourth straight, beat Thunderhawks in OT Next home game is not until March 6, also against Wallaceburg

By Fred Groves Make it four wins in a row for the Integrity Amherstburg Admirals.

The host Admirals won their fourth straight Provincial Junior Hockey League game Sunday afternoon at the Libro Centre, a 4-3 overtime thriller against the Wallaceburg Thunderhawks.

With the win, the locals are now 15-11-0-1 which they took into Petrolia on Tuesday night and prepare to visit Mooretown on Saturday. The win over the Thunderhawks comes after the Admirals were beaten 4-3 in Wallaceburg way back on Nov. 27.

“I don’t know if we look at it as payback. You just want to make sure you win as many season series against as many teams as possible,” said Amherstburg coach Paul Bortignon.

On Sunday, rookie Connor Demelo put the hosts up early and with three minutes left in the open frame he almost connected again. The Admirals forechecked strongly and the intensive work by first-year forward, 16-year-old Anthony Tadiello was noticeable.

“It wasn’t the prettiest win tonight. We are looking for points and once we do that, we can fine tune everything,” said Bortignon.

With 14 seconds left in the opening first period, Wallaceburg’s Jacquane Simmonds jumped on a rebound and slid it under the pad of Ethan Dagenais who was making his first start in net for the Admirals.

“He (Dagenais) hasn’t played since November. With only a couple of practices under his belt, I thought he did real well. He made some big stops down the stretch,” noted Bortignon.

Dagenais played for both Wallaceburg and the Junior “B” LaSalle Vipers before coming in to replace the injured Nicholas Bolton.

At the other end of the rink on Sunday, former Admirals’ goalie Catalin Morin made an incredible 57 saves to give the Thunderhawks, who are in playoff desperation mode, a point on the night.

“We remember Catalin from his time here. The plan was to get pucks and traffic to the net. We made it easy for him from the perimeter at times,” said Bortignon.

Amherstburg retook the lead in the second when Colton Candido zipped down the right side and found Andrew Clark in front for his sixth of the season. But the visitors made it 2-2 when captain Jacob Vancoillie

Admirals’ forward Tylor Fraser attempts a close shot against Wallaceburg goalie Catalin Morin. Morin, a former Admiral, stopped 57 of 61 shots on the day.

Photo by Fred Groves

connected. Defenceman Josh Pederson almost gave the Admirals a two-goal cushion earlier when he had an end-to-end rush but was stopped by Morin.

The teams exchanged goals in the third, Brandon Salvati scoring for Amherstburg and Nelson Dekoning sending it into overtime. The extra period was seven minutes three-on-three and veteran Admirals’ defenceman Cole Welsh was particularly strong.

Speed was the difference in overtime, and it was Amherstburg’s fast winger Brendan Gouin with the winner.

Liam Kiewitz had a strong game for the winners and with Matteo Frattaroli and Owen Papulkas out of the lineup, stepped up and did a great job especially on the powerplay.

“He came in and did what you expect of a veteran,” said Bortignon.

SLAPSHOTS — Amherstburg captain Reid Stieler had three assists on the afternoon… The Admirals only have one more regular season game at home, March 6 when they host the Thunderhawks in a night that will see a special ceremony for overagers… The Admirals played last night in Petrolia, after this issue of the River Town Times went to press. They travel to Mooretown this Saturday for a 7:30 p.m. game.

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sharron.carr@migroup.ca

REAL ESTATE IA NT

E ID

S RE

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JOE SHAW

Sales Representative of the Pedler People

Office: 519.966.3750 Cell: 519.259.2105 Email: shawz444@sympatico.ca

Phone: (519) 736-7983

Email: bornaisinsurance@gmail.com

www.jeremiebornaisins.com

PLUMBING experience experiencethe the difference difference

It’s worth a call... truly independent advice - I work for you, no fee service*,

Sharron Carr, AMP

Jeremie R. Bornais BA, FIC, CPCA

PHYSIOTHERAPY

MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS for All Your Needs!  Purchasing

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Boilers Plumbing Plus Residential,Commercial & Industrial

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More than 23 years • More than 23 years of physiotherapy of physiotherapy experience experience

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•New Construction •Service Plumbing •Install or Repair Natural Gas •Install/Repair Boilers - Steam or HotWater •Test Backflows •Floor Heat Radiant Panel

Mike Heaton Cell: 519-988-5906 2304 County Rd. 20, Harrow, ON N0R 1G0

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

GAIL DUPUIS-DUFOUR, ASA ABR Sales Representative

519.257.7125 519.736.9000 (Bus) 519.736.0395 (Fax)

gaildu4@hotmail.com

65 Sandwich St. N., Amherstburg ON N9V 2T9

Million Dollar Gold Club Member since 1990

The Right Choice for 37 Years of Dedicated Professional Service! Give Me A Call Today!

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This Spot Could Be Yours Call Laura George 519-736-4175

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JOHN HALL SALES REPRESENTATIVE CELL OFFICE EMAIL WEB

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CALLJOHNHALL@GMAIL.COM WWW.CALLJOHNHALL.CA

Call Hall Today!

ROOFING

• ROOFING • RE-ROOFING • NEW CONSTRUCTION

519-819-4309 www.clerouxroofing.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 13

www.rivertowntimes.com

$

15

WORD AD

ANNOUNCEMENT AD

00

$

25

Starting at...

00

At this time, classifieds are only being accepted by emailing sales@rivertowntimes.com and payment is only being accepted by VISA/MASTERCARD

WANTED TO BUY LOOKING TO BUY OLDER GIBSON OR FENDER GUITAR. Call or text 519-567-4446. _______________________

WANTED TO BUY WANTING TO BUY shot guns, rifles, and other hunting related items.

Please call 519-995-9309. _______________________

WANTED TO BUY

SUDOKU ANSWERS

CASH FOR GOLD, SILVER JEWELRY + All coins. Free estimates Friday, February 25 at K of C Hall, 190 Richmond St. Amherstburg, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Private appointments available.

All gold + silver jewelry, even some costume, any gold (even teeth) old coins - Canada, USA, World War Medals, wind-up watches, Mint sets, pocket watches, old guitars. House calls also available, Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed., 54 years experience, 519-818-1805. _______________________

PRAYER

PRAYER

HOLY SPIRIT - You who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideas. You who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget all that is done to me. You who are in all instances of my life with me. I want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no mater how great the material desires may be.

I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. (A person may pray this prayer 3 consecutive days without asking or their wish after the third day their wish will be granted, no matter how difficult it may be, and promise to publish this dialogue as soon as your favour has been granted.)

L.G.B. . ______________________

PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT. HOLY SPIRIT, You who makes me see everything and who shows me the way to reach my ideals. You who gives me the Divine Gift to forgive & forget all that is done to me, and you who are in all the instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank you for everything, and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from you, no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in perpetual glory. A person may pray this prayer for three consecutive days without asking for their wish. It will be granted no matter how difficult it may be, and promise to publish this dialogue, as soon as your favour has been granted.

SERVICES With grateful thanks. R.P. ______________________ POWDER COATING PLUS, SANDBLASTING AND POWDER COATING, Quick Turnarounds, Reasonable rates. Call, text or email 519-9193360, shadow@xplornet.com _______________________

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation and construction experience I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly and with pride.

Locally owned & operated.

Steve 519-300-0961. ______________________

HELP WANTED

GIBSON GALLERY IS HIRING! Contract position for seasonal part-time Office Administrator for an Amherstburg not for profit arts and crafts organization housed in an historical train station.

Details are available online at www.gibsonartgallery. com ______________________

APT FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA Vista 365-369 Dalhousie.

Large, clean, quiet with security entrance. Laundry, patio or balcony, stainless steel appliances, parking.

Centrally located to all amenities.

Starting at $1395 utilities included.

Call to view 519-995-1565. ______________________

MEMORIAM In Loving Memory of

Patricia Laframboise July 9, 1944 - February 17, 2021

It has been 1 year since Pat, Patsy, Mom, Meme left us. She slipped away quietly and peacefully with her family at her side. Her wish was to stay at home; our gift was to keep her there. Thank you to all of the help and support we received so we could do that. Mom in her usual grateful spirit appreciated all of the support and care with abundance. Thank you to Dr Mazhar, Tammy Jones, Pharmacist Steve Beneteau and team, Regional Cancer center physicians, nurses and staff, St. Elizabeth and Paramed Nurses, the Hospice, Paula Matte, Pat McCaffrey and Lori Laing for helping us to give mom the best care. Thank you to the many family and friends for the phone calls, cards, letters, visits, food, gifts, emotional support and hugs during Pat’s illness. It meant the world to her, and to us. Her funeral was small, intimate and just family. In these times of lockdown we were unable to have a celebration of life, like we wanted. In spite of that we were showered with love and condolences from family, friends and the entire community. Thank you for the porch visits with Dad, the phone calls, cards, food, the hugs in the grocery store, the stories you told about her, and the memories you shared. Thank you for helping all of us though our grief over this past year. We have missed her every day. There are memories of her everywhere we look, everywhere we go. Family was everything to her. We were so lucky to have her as a huge part of all of our daily lives. We miss our talks with her, we miss her special dishes she used to cook, her sense of humor, her views about life, her gratefulness, her sewing, her prayers, her beautiful presence.

Life goes on, but it will never be the same. She would always say “I was blessed”....”We were Blessed” to have such a beautiful, caring, lovely Wife, Mom, Meme, Sister and friend in our lives.

Missing You everyday...Until we meet again.

Love Joe, Marylynn, Mika, Jeff, Jason and Families

Due to the Family Day holiday Classified Advertising Deadline for February 23rd edition is this Friday at12 noon

Community Calendar

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 16 BLOOD CLINIC - Canadian Blood Services hosting a blood drive at Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., in Amherstburg with special guest Liam Bumanlag. Liam is an Amherstburg boy who has had heart surgeries and multiple blood transfusions in young life. Runs from 1-7 p.m. For information, visit www.blood.ca or call 1-888-2-DONATE.

SCRAMBLE ANSWER

RESEARCH

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26 AMHERSTBURG FREEDOM MUSEUM AT WINDSOR EXPRESS GAME - Join the Amherstburg Freedom Museum as they partner with the Windsor Express Basketball Team at the WFCU Centre. Tickets are $30. For more information, please call the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 519-736-5433.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26 AMHERSTBURG’S COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR - The House Youth Centre is participating in the Coldest Night of the Year as a way to raise funds. People can run/walk throughout Amherstburg (or elsewhere) to support The House.

To start a team, join a team or to donate to a walker, visit www.cnoy.org/amherstburg.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28 GUEST SPEAKER - Join the Amherstburg Freedom Museum for their next Black History Series Presentation. February’s guest speaker is Dr. Maria Hammack who will share information about Black women involved in the Underground Railroad in Mexico and Canada, both as Freedom Seekers and Underground Railroad Operatives. Follow their social media pages and/or website for details and updates.

ONGOING RIVER CANARD K OF C EVENTS - Join the River Canard K of C for bingo. Barbecues the first Friday of

every month, take-out only. For information, call 519734-8575.

BOTTLE DONATIONS - The AMA Sportsmen Association continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, located at 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

GOLDEN AGE CLUB - The Fort Malden Golden Age Centre has returned to its usual schedule at the Libro Centre. Monday features pepper, Tuesday euchre, Wednesday bridge, Thursday line dancing and cribbage and Friday pepper and bingo. Starts daily at 12:30 p.m.

All welcome. Temporary phone is 519-736-6188.

ACS FOOD BANK - Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

FISH FRIES - Held every Friday from 4-6 p.m. at the AMA Sportsmen Association, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. Take-out only. Pickerel $20, roasted halfchicken $15. To book in advance, call 519-736-5706, walkins welcome.

MISSION NEEDS DONATIONS - TThe Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, located at 298 Victoria St. S., is in need of items. Among the items being requested are bleach, Lysol wipes, face masks, canned tuna, canned peas, canned cut green beans, canned peas & carrots, ketchup, egg noodles, sugar, powdered juice, canned fruit, honey, macaroni & cheese, Sidekicks, ranch dressing, kidney beans, peanut

butter, jam, cookies and baggies. Monetary donations always welcome. For info or to donate, visit www.aburgmission.ca or call 519-736-9140.

FOUNDERS CLUB - Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” to help them purchase the camp on Texas Road. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiples of squares are available for sponsorship.

Tax receipts provided. For information, visit www. bryerswoodyouthcamp.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

THE HOUSE YOUTH CENTRE PROGRAMS - The House Youth Centre, located in the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St., offering weekly meetings for Grade 9 and Grade 11 students Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.

Weekly meetings for Grade 10 and Grade 12 students Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. The Alumni Group meets the third Thursday of each month while the Embrace group meets the last Thursday of each month. There is the quiet homework hour from 3-4 p.m. every Tuesday-Thursday and drop-in hours from 4-7 p.m. every Tuesday-Thursday. For more information, e-mail program director Natalyn Brouillard at natalyn@houseyouthcentre.com.

AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES - Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help!

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

14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

www.rivertowntimes.com

Kicks & Giggles

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you keep looking inward to realize your goals and you’re making very good progress in that regard. Communication is a key to success, so keep dialogues open.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Lately you seem to radiate success in all you do, Taurus. Others naturally want to flock to where you are and spend more time with you. Enjoy the spotlight while it lasts.

An Ontario Health Team has been established in Windsor-Essex County. It will be chaired

by Essex-Windsor EMS chief Bruce Krauter and Claudia den Boer. Special to the RTT

Provincial government announces new Ontario Health Team in Windsor-Essex

By RTT Staff The provincial government has started a new Ontario Health Team in WindsorEssex County “as part of the Ontario government’s plan to end hallway health care and build an integrated health care system centered on the needs of patients.

The announcement came last Thursday, noting the province is partnering with Ontario Health to create a new Ontario Health Team in Windsor-Essex.

The Ontario government states in a news release it will also provide up to $1.1 million to help the Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team “to seamlessly integrate health care services for patients and support the region’s continued response to COVID-19.”

“An Ontario Health Team serving Windsor-Essex is another big step forward in ensuring patients can seamlessly access the health care services they need," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Throughout the pandemic, Ontario Health Teams have been an essential part of the province’s COVID-19 response, and the Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team will continue to support the health and safety of local residents during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the future.”

According to the province: “the Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team will break down barriers in patients’ health care journeys to ensure they receive better and faster care that meet their unique needs. Patients will experience easier transitions from one provider to another with one patient record and one care plan being shared between their health care providers for a continuous patient story.”

The new team will also support the unique needs of underserved communities through the High Priority Communities Strategy, ensuring residents of these communities have equitable, culturally appropriate and safe access to preventative care, chronic disease management, and mental health and addictions services.

“The approval of our OHT is a strong endorsement for the tremendous teamwork and collaboration already underway,” said Claudia den Boer and Bruce Krauter, Co-Chairs, Windsor Essex OHT Steering Committee. “It will be serving our temporary foreign worker community, those living in high-risk vulnerable communities such as shelters or those struggling with mental health, substance use challenges and other advancing chronic conditions like COPD. We look forward to building on these successes and improving the integration of care focused on the wellbeing of the Windsor Essex community.”

The province states Ontario Health Teams are part of a new approach that brings together health care providers as one collaborative team to better coordinate care and share resources and have been able to “quickly and effectively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The new Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team is composed of over 45 local health care programs and service providers, including hospitals, primary care and community support providers, mental health and addictions agencies, longterm care and other social service providers. With the addition of this new team, the province will have a total of 51 Ontario Health Teams, which cover 95 per cent of the province's population.

Through ongoing collaborative education and mobile efforts, the Windsor Essex Ontario Health Team plans to provide equitable, culturally safe, and coordinated outreach to vulnerable, high-risk, non-rostered, and under-serviced populations.

At maturity, the province states an Ontario Health Team is responsible for delivering care for their patients, understanding their health care history, easing their transition from one provider to another, directly connecting them to different types of care, and providing 24/7 help in navigating the health care system.

Ontario Health Teams include providers and organizations from across health and community sectors, including primary care, hospitals, home and community care, mental health and addictions services, long-term care, and many others.

Working across the entire continuum of care throughout the pandemic, Ontario Health Teams have supported a suite of initiatives that include leading local vaccine rollouts, supporting long-term care homes and other congregate care settings, distributing personal protective equipment, staffing assessment centres and leveraging virtual care.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 If communication with family members has been difficult lately, you may find that things change in the next few days, Gemini. This is a welcome change.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Disagreements are not necessarily a bad thing, Cancer. They can open people up to discussions that can be enlightening.

Disagree, but don’t let it get heated.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Romance may be on your mind a lot more than usual, Leo. This can be a good thing.

Use your free time to foster nuances in your relationship.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you may have to take a different route than you initially expected in order to reach a destination. The journey could be very eye-opening and inspirational.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 In order to be the brightest and the best you can be, you may find that you rub certain people the wrong way, Libra. Find ways to make amends.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, a challenging week ahead will require some focus and a willingness to accept support. Surround yourself with people who have your back.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 An especially busy social schedule may leave you feeling a little tired for some time.

Schedule some time for rest and relaxation to recharge your batteries.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 A great deal of unexpected information is coming your way, Capricorn. You may have to sort through it to figure out what is useful and what is not essential.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Don’t neglect the help that people are willing to offer you, Aquarius. Teamwork makes the dream work, and working with others is beneficial to all involved.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Use creativity in any way you can to solve issues that come your way, Pisces. You may be surprised at what you come up with.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY 14 - Danai Gurira, Actress (44) FEBRUARY 15 - Ross Duffer, TV Producer (38) FEBRUARY 16 - The Weeknd, Singer (32) FEBRUARY 17 - Michael, Jordan, Athlete (59) FEBRUARY 18 - John Travolta, Actor (68) FEBRUARY 19 - Millie Bobby Brown, Actress (18) FEBRUARY 20 - Olivia Rodrigo, Singer (19)

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

ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

Wednesday, February 16, 2022 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

Long-time staff member at the Gibson Gallery calling it a career

By Ron Giofu

A familiar face at the Gibson Gallery is calling it a career, but she doesn’t plan to go far.

Bonnie Deslippe, the long-time office administrator, is retiring and the gallery is on the hunt for her replacement. Deslippe is the face that many often see when they first walk into the gallery but her last day is yet to be determined due to her successor not being hired yet.

The decision to retire wasn’t something Deslippe said she took lightly.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a couple of years,” she said. “I love my job. That’s part of it.”

Deslippe said she is past the legal retirement age but didn’t want to retire during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hopeful that things are finally turning a corner, she has given notice to the board of directors she is retiring and “the gallery can get a new person in place” for the 2022 season.

Travelling is in her plans, noting she can visit places with husband Stan and that includes seeing their sons who live in different parts of Canada. She won’t be a stranger at the Gibson Gallery, either, just in a different role.

“I do plan on rejoining the board and volunteering on committees,” she said. “I just can’t walk away.”

Deslippe said she joined the board of directors with the Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts, the body that operates the Gibson Gallery, in 2006.

“At that time, the gallery was manned by the board,” she recalled.

Ann McKerrow was also heavily involved with the gallery for years and when she fell ill, Deslippe said “the board realized how much she did.” Sue Brewin helped run the office for several years with Deslippe taking on those duties around 2009-10.

It is a seasonal, part-time position but Deslippe noted that doesn’t mean she didn’t work in the winter. She pointed out there was work to do to prepare for the upcoming year’s exhibits and to get started on Art by the River planning, including contacting artists who would like to be involved.

“There are things that go on behind the scenes in the winter,” she said.

Summer is still the busiest time, Deslippe added, with the actual presentation of Art by the River, the exhibit season, expanded hours at the gallery and the supervision of summer students.

“Probably my favourite thing about the job is interacting with the artists and visitors to the gallery,” said Deslippe.

Over the years, Deslippe stated she met visitors

Bonnie Deslippe is retiring as the office administrator at The Gibson Gallery. The familiar face that greets people as they enter will retire after a new administrator is appointed, and the recruitment process is actively underway.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Book Review

Four Hundred Souls

By Ibram X Kendi & Keisha N. Blain Adult Non-Fiction

from as far as Europe and Australia who were in town either touring the country or visiting with family.

Working with students has been another highlight, including working with student employees and exhibitors.

“The high school exhibit is one of my favourite exhibits,” said Deslippe. “You see the new artists that are coming up. You see the talent that is out there.”

While Art by the River is a lot of work to present, that is another highlight every year.

“You feel like you’ve accomplished something,” she said, adding the 2021 event was pulled together in about a month by the committee due to uncertainty over COVID-19 public health restrictions.

“That was a real challenge,” she said.

Working with the board members was something else she has enjoyed, and while she is grateful to all she noted the work of Barb and David Cozens, Dave Bailey, Sue and Barrie Brewin and McKerrow along the way. Deslippe noted the board runs the gallery and believes getting new members along with the long-time members presents both continuity and the inclusion of new ideas at the same time.

“I think it’s good that it’s always changing,” said Deslippe. “I’m hoping whoever takes my position has new ideas to take to the board.”

The Gibson Gallery has always evolved over the 50plus years of its existence, Deslippe added.

“I think this is another step forward for it.”

More information on the gallery, including details on the job and how to apply for it, can be found at www.gibsonartgallery.com.

The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Their phone number is 519-736-2826.

Cleanup continues after storm The cleanup continued last week after the snowstorm that hit the region Feb. 2-3.

Town crews hit the streets last Wednesday picking up piles of snow from curbs and street corners and hauling it away. More snow is possible for this area on Thursday.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Book Review

We Are Family

By LeBron James & Andrea Williams Middle Grade Fiction

Four Hundred Souls examines four hundred years of African American history through over 90 contemporary black authors and poets, each taking a 5 year period and highlighting a theme, a topic, an event. This book works for people who are curious and for those who are well versed in Black history as it includes well-known topics as well as lesser known issues, people and causes. The essays flow together well with poetry dotting the way through the centuries and can be read chronologically or not. With so much Black history left untold this book is like a treasure chest just waiting to be opened.

This inspiring middle grade novel written by basketball great LeBron James and Andrea Williams is the story of a group of kids who dream and even depend on basketball to fulfill their lives. Each of the characters comes from different backgrounds with different challenges to overcome but each holds basketball and their Hoop Group team as a bright spot in their lives. When their participation in the after school program is threatened they all have to come together and find a solution. A book that deals with some heavy issues in an approachable way showcasing hard work, the importance of belonging and the magic of hope.

Submitted by River Bookshop Staff

Submitted by River Bookshop Staff

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 16, 2022

Talk the Burg

We want to hear from you.

Complete Surveys TODAY! Ranta Park Survey Dog Park Survey Jack Purdie Playground Survey Briar Ridge Playground Survey Talktheburg.ca To conduct business at any Town facility pre-scheduled appointments are required.

Town Hall 519-736-0012 Building and Planning 519-736-5408 Infrastructure Services 519-736-3664 Community & Protective Services 519-736-5712

Reminder:

Proof of enhanced vaccine certificate with printed or digital QR code and government-issued I.D. is required to enter the Libro Centre facility.

Get your vaccine cert. here: ontario.ca/get-proof

We are hiring Summer Students!

Enjoy working outdoors?

Deadline is March 14 amherstburg.ca/employment

www.rivertowntimes.com

WED

16 THURS

Drop-in Senior

Skating @ Libro 1-2pm $6/person Ages 55+ Call (519 )736-5712 to register

SUN

20

Visit Talk the Burg and complete surveys for the following projects: -Ranta Park -Dog Park -Jack Purdie & Briar Ridge Playground Replacements

THURS

17

Heritage Committee Meeting 5:30 p.m.

Electronic Participation

MON

Town Hall Closed

21

Family Day! Monday Garbage collection will be picked up Saturday, February 19th

24 FRI

25

Drop-in Parent & Tot Amherstburg Skating Accessibility 10-11 am Advisory Committee Meeting $3.50/child 5:00 p.m.

Ages: under 4 Electronic Drop-in Chair Yoga Participation WHITE GOODS PICK UP

(Last day to call for a pick up is Feb 18th)

9-10 am Drop-in Flow Yoga 10:30 – 11:30 am $9/person Ages: 15+ (519 )736-5712 to register

FRI

18

Drop-in Parent & Tot Skating 10-11 am $3.50/child Ages: under 4 Drop-in Chair Yoga 9-10 am Drop-in Flow Yoga 10:30 – 11:30 am $9/person Ages: 15+ (519 )736-5712 to register

TUE

22

2022 Capital Budget Special Council Meeting @ 5:00 p.m.

Electronic Participation

SAT

26

Friday recycle will be picked up Saturday Feb 26th

SAT

19

Monday Garbage collection will be picked up Saturday, February 19th

WED

23

Inclusive Community Program Advisory Steering Committee 5:00 p.m.

Electronic Participation Drop-in Senior

Skating @ Libro 1-2pm $6/person Ages 55+ Call (519 )736-5712 to register

SUN

27

Deadline for Talk the Burg Surveys TOMORROW -Ranta Park -Dog Park -Jack Purdie & Briar Ridge Playground replacements

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