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Seasons residents celebrate the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine
By Ron Giofu Residents at Seasons Retirement Home in Amherstburg are celebrating after receiving the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Most of the residents at Seasons received their second dose of the vaccine last week. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has previously stated that retirement homes in the area were receiving the Moderna vaccine. Seasons Amherstburg resident John Mallett received his second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on his 98th birthday. He described it as the “greatest gift” he could have been given. “We are excited that the majority of our staff and residents have received the vaccine or are scheduled to receive it soon,” says Tamasin Dineen, general manager at Seasons Amherstburg. “The greater the number of people who get vaccinated, the greater protection we have against COVID-19.” Residents at Seasons Amherstburg received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine Jan. 11 and were all excited to receive it, the retirement home reported. Fun manager Jenn Lauzon stated residents cannot wait to get back to the “new normal” as far as activities, outings and having visitors again. As far as visitors go, residents are only allowed their one essential visitor and one designated visitor with the latter coming from their immediate family that are listed with Seasons. These visitors cannot change and are required to remain the same two people. Residents at Seasons Oak Park in LaSalle also celebrated receiving the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with that celebration taking place last Thursday. Seasons Oak Park general manager James Cook told the River Town Times they were able to celebrate in style with the theme “Shot by a Cupid” and noted the celebrations had an Amherstburg touch to them. Continued on Page 2
Seasons Amherstburg resident John Mallett received a special gift for his 98th birthday last week – the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. He called it “the greatest gift” he could have ever been given. Ashley Hall (far left) and Shawna Carroll (far right) were with Mallett as he received his second vaccination. Submitted photo
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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Warden urges caution amid COVID-19, encourages residents to celebrate Black History Month
Warden Gary McNamara addresses the public at the start of the Feb. 3 virtual county council meeting. He spoke on the COVID-19 pandemic and also encouraged people to enjoy the virtual Black History Month events. Screenshot
By Ron Giofu The Warden of the County of Essex touched on some different subjects during his opening remarks at last Wednesday night’s meeting of Essex County council. While one subject was a bit more somber than the other, the aim was to keep the community safe while observing important occasions as well. As has become tradition, Warden Gary McNamara offered condolences to the family and friends of those who have died from COVID-19. McNamara said it seems like every meeting they are offering condolences to the “very important people” being lost in the community, including mothers, fathers, siblings, grandparents and friends who are being lost to the coronavirus. “This is a very terrible virus and it’s taken far too many of us far too soon and certainly our entire community mourns their passing,” said McNamara. The warden also thanked the residents of Essex County “for staying home, staying safe and saving lives.’
“I know it hasn’t been easy but the efforts are paying off. We’re seeing our numbers go down and that is good news for us,” said McNamara, who acknowledged the opening of schools in Windsor-Essex County Feb. 8. “There’s been a clear and steady downturn on the trajectory of the numbers of daily (COVID-19) cases but I can’t say it enough – we must be vigilant and we must continue to follow public health’s advice.” McNamara said the “new fear” is the rise of the new variants of the virus that are more transmissible. He pointed out the pace of vaccinations has slowed but added there has been a plan put out by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) that could see as many as 20,000 area residents vaccinated per day. “Mass inoculation is scheduled to begin sometime in March and certainly April and the majority of local residents should be vaccinated by September,” said McNamara. “There is hope in each of those vaccine vials and we need to use that hope to power us through the next few weeks and months.” McNamara is also chair of the WECHU board of directors and the mayor of Tecumseh. Also as part of his warden’s remarks at the start of the Feb. 3 Essex County council meeting, McNamara pointed out February is Black History Month. “I encourage everyone to celebrate the rich Black history of this region,” he said. “Thousands of refugee slaves fled bondage from the United States and found freedom on our welcoming shores, constructing schools and churches and building lives and communities that enriched the fabric of Essex County and, indeed our country.” Their “incredible journey to freedom” is celebrated locally by organizations like the Essex County Black Historical Society, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum and the John Freeman Walls Historical Site. “There are virtual events that are planned throughout the month of February so please take part,” he said noting the schedule is available on the Amherstburg Freedom Museum’s website. That is found at www.amherstburgfreedom.org.
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Seasons Oak Park in LaSalle celebrated their residents and staff receiving the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine last week. Helping with the celebration was Harber Woodcraft of Amherstburg, who created and donated magnetic hearts with the last initial for all the residents at the retirement home. Submitted photo
A resident celebrates after receiving his second COVID-19 vaccination last week at Seasons Oak Park in LaSalle. Both Seasons Amherstburg and Seasons Oak Park marked the occasion of the second vaccine dose with celebrations in the retirement homes. Submitted photo
Seasons locations in Amherstburg and LaSalle hold celebrations Continued from Page 1 Harber Woodcraft, a local wood working business from Amherstburg, was kind enough to create and donate magnetic hearts with the last name initial for all the residents at the LaSalle retirement home. “A special thank you to Harber Woodcraft for the donation of these hearts. Our deepest appreciation and thanks to the nurses of Windsor-Essex Public Health for administrating the vaccines. Our residents and team are more hopeful and optimistic than ever!” said Cook. The WECHU states the region is in Phase One of the province’s vaccine rollout plan. According to the Health Unit’s website: “We are currently in Phase 1 of Ontario’s three phase COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan and are administering vaccines to residents, staff, and essential caregivers in long-term care and retirement homes. Vaccines will be available to older adults in Phase 2 and to the general public in Phase 3. “The WECHU is committed to timely communication on vaccine availability and will communicate broadly when there are opportunities to register for the vaccine.” More information on the vaccine distribution plan is available through the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit’s website at www.wechu.org.
Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – River Town Times – 3
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Areas move back to “Red” status, councils concerned over small business By Ron Giofu
There appears to be some help coming slowly but surely for some small businesses. The province announced last Friday that Windsor-Essex County was one of the areas moving back into the “Red-Control” zone of the province’s reopening framework. While there are still stringent restrictions, there are still ways for some businesses and restaurants to open and allow at least a percentage of their regular capacity inside. The Town of Amherstburg voiced its support for small businesses amid the COVID-19 pandemic late last year and now the Town of Essex also called on the province to level the playing field. Amherstburg town council passed a motion at the Dec. 14 meeting to send a letter to Premier Doug Ford “requesting that small businesses be allowed to remain open for in-store customers during these unprecedented times; and further, to give small businesses the same rules as big box stores.” The motion, originally made by Councillor Patricia Simone in December, resulted in the letter signed by Mayor Aldo DiCarlo being sent off to Ford with copies also being sent to Essex MP Chris Lewis and Essex MPP Taras Natyshak. Essex town council met virtually last week with Natyshak, Lewis and ChathamKent-Leamington MPP Rick Nicholls on the call to listen to concerns. Dr. Wajid Ahmed, medical officer of health with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit was also at the Feb. 1 Essex meeting. “We’re behind our small businesses 100 per cent,” said Essex Mayor Larry Snively, “but this is more information and for our council to ask senior levels of government.” Lewis said it was “vital” for him to be at the meeting, noting his office has received “tens of thousands” of e-mails, calls and text messages from concerned small businesspeople. “I understand what’s happening at the grassroots (level). I hear it all the time,” he said. “They have the answers. They are the ones that are going to carry us through. I’m excited to be part of this solution and not part of the problem. I really want to be a voice for this area.” “I think it’s important for us all to be rowing in the same direction,” added Natyshak. “I think we all want to see our small business thriving and back on line. How that happens is up for debate and effort as well as a whole lot of work of all levels.” “Our region has been hit really hard,” said Ahmed. “It has impacted everyone.” Ahmed acknowledged while it has impacted people, “we all have our jobs to do” in order to keep numbers low. Essex Councillor Steve Bjorkman said “it’s one thing to have CERB and unemployment,” but the owners of small businesses are “drowning in debt” and it’s important to bring their cases to senior levels of government. He said it’s a fairness issue on what stores are allowed to be open and the ones are not. “We’re told the rules are there to protect the public but because they’re not applied fairly to all businesses, namely main street stores versus big box stores, our small business owners don’t trust the province or the health ministry or our health units. That mistrust has led to people breaking the rules, incredible stress and them being defiant,” he said. “How do we bring fairness back? How do we get all of our businesses, our business owners and our residents to believe we are being fair to everyone?” Essex Councillor Joe Garon said Feb. 1 that businesses “are hurting and are hurting bad” and there has to be some way to get them back open. He believes small businesses were “doing it well” and doing their due diligence during the pandemic but also had concerns about limiting what big box stores could sell because he thought that could lead to other problems. “People are really not happy with the ever-changing rules, the moving goal posts and the double standards as to who can travel, who can work and who can’t,” Essex Councillor Chris Vander Doelen told the government representatives. “I also want to warn you the senior levels of government have lost a lot of trust and goodwill that they had in this country.” Vander Doelen took particular aim at the federal government though did not blame Lewis. He added “you’ve got to let some people into these businesses. We cannot throw away an entire strata of our economy over guesstimates that are proving to be wrong. We’re a year into this now. We remember that only two weeks was going to flatten the curve. A year later, we’re not buying this stuff.” Essex councillor Sherry Bondy added many small businesses “cannot ride it out.” “They have been on a whirlwind since this started,” she said, adding many learned how to operate safely during the first lockdown. She believed curbside delivery wasn’t working for many businesses. “All small businesses are essential. Those small businesses are putting bread and butter on the table for their families. It’s mental health, it’s community wellness and community vitality that we’re really ignoring,” she said. The feelings in Essex appear to be similar to those that were relayed to the province by Amherstburg town council. In the letter that Amherstburg council sent earlier
“People are really not happy with the ever-changing rules"
Small businesses and how they can compete were the subject of recent council meetings. Amherstburg discussed the issue last December while the Town of Essex joined them Feb. 1. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
this year that was signed by Mayor Aldo DiCarlo, it stated “many of the small businesses are staffed locally, owned locally and some even span across multiple generations. The province has deemed many of these businesses as ‘non-essential ,” forcing them to close their doors during the COVID-19 lockdown measures, irrespective of the strict safety measures and contact tracing in place. DiCarlo’s letter to Ford added “I am requesting the province of Ontario, in consultation with the medical advisors, allow small businesses to open, similar to big box stores, understanding that they must operate in a safe and controlled manner. These small businesses are ‘essential’ to Amherstburg’s economic health and welfare and I ask you to please consider this request to save our suffering small business sector.”
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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Essex County council supports request to change provincial legislation for those on ODSP
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Remaining 12 acres of Centennial Park should not be sold There is another move by Town Hall that seems to be self-serving and against the betterment of the community, in particular the children of this great town. Apparently, someone at Town Hall is recommending the north end of Centennial Park be deemed surplus land and put it up for sale. We all know that although taxes in Amherstburg have skyrocketed over the last few years, the town is beyond broke and desperately needs money. Some have suggested that the property will be used for low income housing. I’m not sure why the property behind St. Bernard’s school can’t be used instead of the north end of the park. The park is the 3rd busiest park out of 26 parks. On Saturday, February 13, there were 31 young people tobogganing on “the hill,” everyone knows which one I’m talking about, most of our children have done the same. This park is within walking distance of three schools and the students from all use it. If this park is sold, it will handcuff the new high school from future development which will definitely hurt students. Now, let’s look at the economic impact. Once the new high school is built, the parkland will double, if not triple in value. This is taxpayer owned property and council has an obligation to get the best price possible and not sell it on the cheap. Most of us know that the present administration does not do things that have the best interests of the community but selling this property now is like going to the grocery store when you are hungry. You just don’t do it. It would be an insult to the great people that had their names attributed to this park like H. Murray Smith, Ralph McCurdy and Russel Renaud. Perhaps if this park is sold off, the children could wait some more for hotels to be built and toboggan down the snowbanks after the parking lots are plowed. . —Tim Gray Amherstburg
Town should talk to the public about the future of remaining Centennial Park acres When you get a chance, take a drive by Russell Renaud Hill - an incredible family amenity being enjoyed at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park today by hundreds of Amherstburg kids and their parents! Those who would promote and agree with demolishing that hill and other recreational amenities there in favor of any type of housing development should truly be ashamed. We respectfully request that council defer any decision and re-open the Parks Master Plan (relative to H. Murray Smith Centennial Park) through the Public Notice process. Then, after hearing from residents, parents of students, teachers, coaches, principals and trustees who truly all have a vested interest, Council can properly decide on the future use of the remaining 12 acres. In the interim, stop by Mt. Russell, introduce yourselves and ask those kids and their parents what they think about town officials’ promoted plans are for the subject property.” “Transparency and Residents First Always.” Thank you for every courtesy here and in the past!. . —Ron Renaud Amherstburg
By Ron Giofu Essex County council heard the concerns from a local organization over people not having enough money to access online services and has endorsed their request to act on it. Anna Jurak, executive director of the Brain Injury Association of Windsor and Essex County, addressed county council at their most recent virtual meeting with the aim of trying to help people to get government funding to help pay for Internet fees. Jurak sought support of a request of the provincial government to issue directives to Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) directors and administrators so they are able to provide financial assistance for basic virtual support including, but not limited to, Internet charges, for those in receipt of ODSP and OW who specifically request it. “We were fortunate to receive federal grant funding for technology,” Jurak explained to Essex County council members. “We are not only providing the technology, but the training to use the technology.” The problem comes in when those trained on the technology try to use it at home. “Their basic needs entitlement doesn’t provide for any extra funding for something like Internet services,” said Jurak. “At this time, there are a lot Anna Jurak, executive director of the of medical professionals and community organi- Brain Injury Association of Windsor and zations that are all online now. It’s not a luxury. Essex County, addressed county council at their most recent virtual meeting. It’s a necessity to have Internet service.” Jurak added people she works with on ODSP or OW can’t ask for money to pay for Internet services. She said the discretionary funding that workers are allowed to use is only for one-time charges like emergency items or things that come up unexpectantly that have to be paid for. “Internet service would be an ongoing cost so therefore they don’t have the authority to provide any Internet service on top of their basic needs,” said Jurak. Jurak said the Brain Injury Association of Windsor and Essex County believes this issue is “very, very important” and one that will last “well beyond” the COVID-19 pandemic. The current programs assist with the social component of the people her organization supports, she believes. “Everything is on Zoom right now,” she said. “It’s very important for their social well-being to be involved with this.” Jurak said it is small changes to the regulations that would allow people who request it to be part of community programs. The changes would allow directors and administrators of the programs to pay for the Internet services that people request. Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche asked if Jurak had spoken with social services officials in Windsor-Essex and, if so, what was the response. “This is how this whole thing got started,” said Jurak. “A lot of our clients were not able to continue with our programs. I called social services and I spoke with the director there and we went through the legislation. I’m somewhat familiar with the legislation because I used to be an adjudicator for social benefits so I kind of knew what was in there already. We went through all the regulations to find where there might be some authority or some directive to pay for it and there was none.” Jurak said the social services director went back to his superiors to see if anything was missed and it was confirmed there is no authority under current regulations. Meloche asked if it was a province-wide initiative, and Jurak said all the Brain Injury Associations belong to the Ontario Brain Injury Association and she said she had support letters from other similar organizations, local MPP’s, the Spinal Cord Injury Association, Family Services among others. “I’ve been gathering support from others as well because they run into the same situations,” she said. “I would imagine that with COVID this has really exasperated the efforts of folks to come together and the only ways and means is through Internet services and so forth,” added Warden Gary McNamara.
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New doctor enjoying his practice at Amherstburg Family Health Team By Ron Giofu A doctor that joined the Amherstburg Family Health Team late last year is enjoying his new practice. Dr. Grant Fortowsky joined the Amherstburg Family Health Team (AFHT) in the fall of 2020. He is a graduate of the medical school at Queen’s University, having done that in 2018, and completed his residency in 2020. The latter was also done at Queen’s University. “I completed undergraduate and graduate degrees in chemistry at the University of Windsor before I left for medical school at Queen’s University in Kingston,” he added.. Fortowsky said becoming a physician has been a goal of his that he accomplished Dr. Grant Fortowsky joined the Amherstburg but joked it may have been a role he was Family Health Team staff late last year. destined to play. He also works as a hospitalist at Windsor “I have wanted to be a doctor for a long Regional Hospital taking care of the admitted time now, although my horrible penman- patients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is also helping out at the COVID assessment ship did not leave me with many other op- centers. He is at the AFHT Monday, Thursday tions,” Fortowsky remarked. and Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and is Fortowsky said he likes working in Am- accepting new patients. Submitted photo herstburg and at the AFHT. “The Amherstburg Family Health Team is an awesome group to work with. I couldn’t ask for a more supportive and fun work environment,” said Fortowsky. “I love working in Amherstburg! It’s so nice to be in town with most of my family and be able to provide a service to the community that has been so good to us.” Fortowsky stated he is a family physician and most of his practice does revolve around working in the clinic. “Additionally, I work as a hospitalist at the WRH (Windsor Regional Hospital) taking care of the admitted patients. During the pandemic I am also helping out at the COVID assessment centers so needless to say I wear a few different hats,” said Fortowsky. Fortowsky definitely has seen a difference practicing medicine amid a pandemic and the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on how he treats patients. “The pandemic has certainly thrown a curve ball with regards to clinic work,” he said. “In the blink of an eye it has switched from primarily in-person visits to a virtual experience. While it does have its advantages as people no longer need to drive to see me, I do miss chatting with people in person.” The addition of Fortowsky boosts the number of physicians in the area, something the local doctor wants to see continue. “Essex County has always been underserviced by physicians for as long as I can remember,” said Fortowsky. “While this has started to improve in recent years, I hope to part of this new continuing trend.” For those needing a doctor, Fortowsky advises that he is accepting new patients. He generally works Monday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., though he adds “this will likely expand once the pandemic is over.” Despite his new practice, Fortowsky does quip that he does like to head out on the golf course, though offers a friendly warning for those who golf at the same time he does. “If you see me on the golf course this summer, be on the lookout as I think my driver is defective,” he jokes.
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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Woofa-Roo Pet Festival cancelled for the second straight year By Ron Giofu
Wear a mask, wash your hands and physically distance to stop the spread of COVID-19. Learn more at ontario.ca/covid-19 Paid for by the Government of Ontario
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A harmless coffee break can do more harm than you think.
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has already started to impact 2021’s festival season in Amherstburg. For the second consecutive year, the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival has been cancelled with the pandemic being the major reason why. It has been scheduled to be held at the Libro Centre June 26-27 but festival organizers are now planning for new dates of June 25-26, 2022. Festival director and founder Lorene Clayton said there were numerous factors that went into the decision to cancel this year’s event. “Now is the time we would normally recruit volunteers, sponsors and our vendors,” said Clayton. “We’re in a fullblown pandemic and it’s tough to get sponsors, volunteers and vendors. Who is going to want to invest in a festival when things are so up in the air? It’s the uncertainty right now.” Unlike other festivals that she compared to “outdoor shopping malls,” Clayton said the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival relies heavily on events within the festival such as dock diving, agility shows and more to draw people in. “We put people shoulder-to-shoulder,” said Clayton. “That’s not conducive for the COVID situation that we’re in. For all of our events, people pack in close. We’re different that way.” In addition to the health-related reasons for not proceeding this year, Clayton said cancelling the event allows vendors the opportunity to try and find another venue or engagement to go to. “I have received a lot of feedback from
Dock diving, a staple of the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival, will not be presented this year nor will any other part of the annual event. For the second straight year, the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival has been cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This photo was taken at the 2019 event. RTT File Photo
people,” said Clayton. “They are disappointed but very supportive and understanding.” Clayton added the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival has a lot of loyal sponsors and she believes many are “ready to jump in” when the festival is ready to be staged again. The vendors are loyal to the festival as well, she added. As for the volunteers, Clayton acknowledged that many volunteers that are still in high school will have to look elsewhere to gain their community service time needed for graduation. “A lot of students are kind of at a loss to get their 40 hours now,” she said. Charities and rescues will also feel a financial hit, Clayton pointed
out, as many use their participation in the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival as their major fundraiser. She said it is very disappointing to have to cancel the festival, but there are too many concerns to have to overcome. However, she believes the pandemic is a “speed bump” they will overcome and emerge just as strong. The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival has a strong social media presence, Clayton added, and supporters there are quite active. She believes that will lead to good things when the festival restarts, hopefully in 2022. “I have a feeling when we all come together again, I think we’ll pick up where we left off,” said Clayton.
Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – River Town Times – 7
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Lyons announces his upcoming retirement as WECDSB director of education By Ron Giofu The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board is seeing a change at the top. Terry Lyons has announced his retirement as the Catholic school board’s director of education, with his retirement coming after 32 years of being in education. Lyons’ retirement, which takes effect July 31, was announced at a special virtual meeting of the board of trustees last Tuesday night. Lyons began his role with the WECDSB as executive superintendent of human resources in 2015 and became the director of education in October 2017 following the retirement of Paul Picard. “It’s been a privilege and an honour to serve the board as the director of education,” said Lyons. “I leave knowing the people in our board not only believe in our vision of building communities of faith, hope and service, but they also embody it.” Lyons thanked the board of trustees for their trust in him and the senior administrative team. He thanked those seniors administrators, principals and vice principals, calling them “the backbone of this organization.” “You have risen to every challenge and have never put your needs above the needs of the organization,” he said. “You are the epitome of the word professional.” Regarding the staff, Lyons stated “none of this works without each and every one of you. No one is more or less important. It doesn’t work if we don’t have the best version of you every day.” The parents, students and community partners were told “to rest easy knowing that this organization will always work hard to be the best it can be in all facets.” Board chair Fulvio Valentinis thanked Lyons for his
passion and dedicated service to the board and his collaboration with Trustees, citing among his many accomplishments the acquisition of a new site for a replacement for Catholic Central High School and moving the project forward; succession planning and building greater administrative capacity by encouraging more people to step into leadership positions; and navigating the board through the COVID-19 pandemic. “Every decision Terry has made throughout his entire career has been in the best interest of students and their families,” Valentinis said. “Terry is an exceptional leader and a great mentor who knows what it takes to build a great team. He has a strong moral compass which defines him and his faith guides him. He has been a true champion of Catholic education and he will definitely be missed by trustees, and his many friends and colleagues throughout the system.” Valentinis added: “We, as a board, are grateful for Terry’s leadership, his abilities to successfully meet the challenges and his passion for Catholic education.” He said Lyons has placed the WECDSB in a strong position going forward. Lyons said he is looking forward to spending more time with family and travelling when it is safe to do so again. “This has been the most challenging, but also the most rewarding part of my career,” said the 57-yearold Lyons. “I was honoured to have the opportunity to serve this school board, our students and their families. I’ve always lived by the credo that we need to be better today than we were yesterday, and better tomorrow than we were today, and I think that has resonated with so many of our staff who are clearly committed to continually finding new and better ways to help our students succeed.” Valentinis said the next step for the Board will be
Book Review
Red at the Bone Jacqueline Woodson Adult fiction
A raw yet lyrical story about two black families and the history they lived to get them to the place they currently reside. The book opens with Melody’s coming out party - like a sweet sixteen without the birthday part. For the festivities, Melody is wearing the dress that her mother never got to wear for her coming out and as she descends the stairs in her grandparents home the story branches off alternating present day and past from the perspective of each of the five main characters. Each character is deeply layered - Iris, Melody’s mother, pregnant at 15 who decided to keep Melody but then became an absentee mother. Aubrey, her dad, who took fatherhood as the impetus to change his life and Melody’s grandparents who have lived through tragedy and were changed by it Addressing racism, family, love, classism, Woodson writes an almost musical story of a family, it’s roots and it’s future branches. Submitted by Lori Wightman, of River Bookshop, Amherstburg
Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board director of education Terry Lyons will be retiring effective July 31, 2021. He has spent 32 years in education. His retirement was announced during a special meeting of the board of trustees Feb. 9. Submitted photo
to launch a thorough search process to find a replacement for Lyons. Trustees were given an opportunity to pay tribute to Lyons but some opted to wait until a later date to sum up their feelings. Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee Frank DiTomasso did offer his best wishes. “Enjoy your retirement. It’s been a great pleasure to work with you,” stated DiTomasso. “You did a fabulous job. Thank you very much!”
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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Town to look at replacingequipment at two parks By Ron Giofu
Town council will look at replacing equipment in two local parks – Briar Ridge Park (pictured) and Jack Purdie Park. The town is also removing equipment in Toddy Jones Park. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
After extensive debate on the subject, Amherstburg town council has agreed to start the process to replace equipment in two local parks. Town council will dip into its lifecycle reserve to replace playground equipment deemed past its prime by administration. The parks in question are Briar Ridge Park and Jack Purdie Park. Parks staff had gone to town council with a report to remove equipment in Briar Ridge Park and Wigle Park, but the latter already has another nearby play structure for local children. Jack Purdie Park was tacked on to the motion due to its equipment getting near the end of its useful life as well. “A third party inspection was recently undertaken by Playchek Services Inc. on all Town playgrounds. These inspections are structured and performed as a positive risk-management tool to promote well designed, constructed, and maintained play equipment, protective surfaces, and playgrounds. Along with ongoing inspections undertaken by qualified Parks staff the third party inspection tracks the condition of park play structure equipment with recommendations for disposition. The third party inspection is undertaken on a three-year cycle,” director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Phil Roberts stated in a report to town council. Roberts stated Playchek Services Inc. actually recommended that consideration be given to the complete removal and/or replacement “in a timely manner” of five playgrounds in town but “administration is reluctant to remove equipment until completely necessary as the surrounding neighbourhood could be potentially without play structures for an unknown period of time.” However, Roberts did point out in his report that while repairs are made based on recommendations of the third party inspector, “there comes a point however that repairs or alteration cannot be undertaken due to elements like parts availability, metal fatigue, making repairs over previous repairs and attrition of components which compromise the structure.” Roberts said there is no plan to replace the play equipment at Wigle Park as there
is already a viable play structure that will remain there but stated in his report that the Briar Ridge Park had not been in line for upgrades for at least five years. Not having a play structure at Briar Ridge Park didn’t sit well with council members, with Councillor Don McArthur voicing his concerns. McArthur said the parks master plan states there should be a playground within 500 metres of an urban residential area and removal of the Briar Ridge Park equipment would mean the town is not honouring its own document. “I really don’t think we can let that happen, certainly not for any length of time,” said McArthur. “Childhood is fleeting. Don’t blink. Five years to a kid is too long not to have a playground.” Roberts said the equipment at Briar Ridge is “particularly problematic” and the next closest play structure is at Jack Purdie Park, which is also on the list to be removed. He added residents have emailed his department photos of equipment they believe is unsafe. McArthur didn’t believe there was a question that a park was needed in the Crown Ridge subdivision, where Briar Ridge Park is located. He originally suggested possibly pre-committing money in the 2022 budget or dipping into reserves. “We can’t have a situation where there is no park there and we’re twiddling our thumbs and consulting people with kids getting older and turning to teens without a playground,” he said. The town should have been planning for replacement of such equipment five years ago, McArthur added, as “every neighbourhood needs a park.” He questioned why money wasn’t being put away for the projects, with director of corporate services Cheryl Horrobin indicating it boils down to “limited dollars.” She said the challenge for the town is that money hasn’t been put away “for a lot of years” and the town has to balance service levels and what is the priority for current dollars. Roberts indicated there is a process the town has to follow when replacing a piece of equipment including public consultation to see what the area wants.
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Playground equipment is set to be removed in Toddy Jones Park. While the town is not replacing this particular piece, they are set to start the process of replacing equipment in Briar Ridge Park and Jack Purdie Park. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
“We’d really want to identify what the potential is for the park and where it would go in the park,” he said, adding trails, shade structures and other components could also be identified. A new play structure could cost$150,000-$200,000 each, he stated. Roberts added the parks master plan is a guiding document and not a funding document and there is over $200 million proposed in the plan in terms of buildout in parks across Amherstburg. The town had considered using the parkland reserve, with Councillor Michael Prue asking how much has been “loaned out” to help pay for renovations at the Amherstburg Community Hub. CAO John Miceli said there is a loan against the reserve “and there is a payback plan for that.” A “significant amount” that will pay back that reserve will be the sale of the lands east of the building, which is proposed to be the site of a long-term care home, plus the town is collecting rent from tenants in the building. Roberts said there is public consultation for the possible redevelopment of the skateboard park at Jack Purdie Park as they want to ensure it fits within the potential other components. The equipment there could be replaced at its existing location, he suggested. “We cannot leave (Briar Ridge) without a playground. We cannot tell Purdie they are going to lose their playground while we study if something else is going to go there,” said Prue. “The kids need this.” Prue believes it is just as important to have quality community playgrounds as it is to go down the “$60 million path” and develop the Libro Centre master plan. “Both are important but the community parks are used by young kids, parents who can take their child to the park. It is a local community hub. I cannot in good conscience take them out and wait for five years,” said Prue. Prue believed there was enough reserve funding to cover park equipment replacement. Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche questioned whether there was an actual list that sets the priorities on park replacement, simi-
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lar to how the town relies on the roads needs study to determine what road projects have to be done on any given year. Meloche also asked whether it was the proper route to go by dipping into reserves. “We’ve been hearing for the last five or six years our reserves are insufficient,” said Meloche. “By doing this, are we shooting ourselves in the foot by stripping down the reserves even further without having a plan to replace it?” Horrobin said council’s job is to identify the highest priorities and elected officials can advance whatever projects they feel are needed most. Councillor Peter Courtney questioned how it would be explained to taxpayers living near Briar Ridge Park if they were to wait five years to replace equipment. “That, to me, is a dropped ball,” said Courtney. Courtney added it would be hard to explain to residents of that area that their park equipment is being removed without a plan to replace it. He said it’s “frustrating” to have to wait for infrastructure replacement, adding there has to be “forward momentum” to replacing equipment at Briar Ridge. He believed Jack Purdie Park was a different situation as its centrally located with its own equipment right now. The demographics of the Crown Ridge subdivision were also a factor, Courtney believed, as he wondered what the ages of the children in that area were. Councillor Patricia Simone wondered if there were fundraising opportunities for the parks in question but Roberts said getting fundraising dollars for a municipal park presents challenges. Roberts acknowledged additional amenities at Beaudoin Park in River Canard were supported by the Amherstburg Community Foundation, the Rotary Club of Amherstburg and the Amherstburg Accessibility Committee. McArthur concluded that playgrounds are very important and he doesn’t want to see any child at a disadvantage. “The crucial thing is you have to start the planning ahead,” he said. “Let’s begin those consultations now before they get ripped out of the ground.”
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Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – River Town Times – 9
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Brentwood Lottery grand prize winners officially claim their new house By Ron Giofu The grand prize winners of the Brentwood Lottery have decided what they are going to do with their new home. Craig Moro and his wife Mary picked up the keys to their new home, located on Summer St. in Lakeshore, last Friday afternoon. After originally being undecided after the Jan. 16 draw, Craig said they are going to let Mary’s sister and her husband live there and possibly buy it from them as they have been looking to move to Windsor-Essex County from the Kitchener-Waterloo area. “We’re keeping the house,” he said. “My wife’s sister has been looking to move to the area.” His in-laws Margaret and Scott Brush have been losing out on offers to buy homes but now they have their new place. It was built by Lakepoint Homes and is valued at $474,000. “They are going to live in it until they figure out what they want to do,” he said. “They are originally from Windsor.” Mary said “we’re passing on a little bit of the good luck we’ve stumbled into.” Craig added they will still get to see and go inside the home when they visit Mary’s sister and family. “We’re just super excited,” said Mary. “Thank you to Brentwood.” “We’re lucky to have them,” Craig added of the recovery home. Jeff Sylvestre from Lakepoint Homes said it is the 13th year they’ve been involved with the Brentwood Lottery. He said it started as a way to get additional exposure for their brand but has evolved and is now important for the company and everyone involved. “This is a cause near and dear cause to my heart,” said Sylvestre. Sylvestre said people who suffer from alcoholism are contributing members of society who largely go unrecognized. The kitchen of the Brentwood Lottery grand prize is seen here. The home was won by Craig and Mary Moro of Windsor. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Jeff Sylvestre of Lakepoint Homes presents the keys to a new home to Craig and Mary Moro. The Moros were the grand prize winners of the Brentwood Lottery and the home was their prize. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
“The side of alcoholism people see is the bad side,” he said. Sylvestre added that their tradespeople also got on board and donated upwards of $100,000 of their products and services as well. He said it’s a boost for Brentwood Recovery Home as they don’t have to spend that money on the prize not to mention the winners themselves. Being part of the Brentwood Lottery has its other benefits, Sylvestre added. “It’s exciting,” he said. “We’ve met some new friends here.” Mark Lennox, interim executive director with Brentwood Recovery Home, said the response to the lottery was “absolutely brilliant” this year. The Amherstburg resident said they “did a lot of soul searching” at Brentwood in late 2020 as to whether they could go ahead with the lottery amid a pandemic but it turned out very well. “A lot of it was faith and trust,” he said. Many people buy tickets just to support the Brentwood Recovery Home, Lennox added, and some people donate their prizes back or at least a portion of them. “We had no idea we’d sell a record amount of tickets,” he said, noting that over 48,000 were sold. That resulted in an additional $100,000 for Brentwood and its programs. Brentwood pays for 20,000 patient days per year through its fundraising, Lennox added.
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10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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Town makes downtown parking modifications, hope to take greater look in the future By Ron Giofu
Amherstburg town council has added parking restrictions in a portion of the downtown core but still want to look at the issue again in the future. After hearing from a pair of business owners in the Queen Charlotte condominium building on Dalhousie St., town council opted to place two-hour parking in front of that building. However, town council members left the door open to study the issue of downtown parking again in the future. Rob Iannucci, who owns Nuccelli’s Frozen Yogurt, said he just moved to that building from his former Richmond St. location and noticed that many people tend to park in front of the building and leave their vehicles there all day. “It’s full all day,” said Iannucci. “It’s not the busy season yet. It’s only going to get worse throughout the summer.” Iannucci believed it is an issue of fairness and stated it should either be a twohour limit for the business district of Dalhousie St. or no limits as only having a small portion without it allowed people to park in front of his store all day. He added the lot at Richmond St. and Ramsay St. is now largely unused ever since the town put a two-hour parking limit on it. “That parking lot used to be full because the local people who worked here used it which was fine because it opened a lot of parking in front of their stores,” he said. “Now, it’s not used at all. Now it’s just a wasted parking lot and a waste of taxpayers’ money. We put a lot of money into that parking lot and it’s not being used.” Bryce May from Happier Camper Canada said he has been at location for about three years. “It’s pretty much the same cars there every day,” he said. May said once people get to the Queen Charlotte building, every spot is taken whereas other areas where there is a parking limit have open spots. “I am 100 per cent for having two-hour parking,” said May. “I’ve complained about it in the past.” Councillor Michael Prue asked if it would be better to open the lot for employees as he didn’t believe they could deal with Dalhousie St. as a singular issue. He believed council had to look at a bigger picture and that included a parking study. Prue also asked about the unfinished business item from Feb. 24, 2020 “that administration be directed to meet with businesses in the downtown core to assist them with locations for staff parking and to look into the feasibility of staff permit parking, including overnight parking, and to educate businesses and the community on downtown parking.” Manager of licensing and enforcement Nicole Rubli said administration is working with bigger chains with parking availability. She said they are also waiting to see about a parking study, noting it was chopped from the 2021 budget. Prue also raised the angle parking issue on Dalhousie St. between Richmond St. and Murray St. that he raised before, which would allow more parking in the downtown area. Rubli added in 2020, there were 363 parking tickets issued in Amherstburg even with a three-month enforcement hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. About 75 per cent of those infractions were in the downtown core, she said. An “aggressive” education campaign takes place annually and downtown maps have been provided to businesses on where there is timed parking and where there is not. “Yes, it is enforceable,” she said. “We have been enforcing. But a parking study is really going to assist us in understanding what parking is available in that area in high business hours.” Prue also questioned whether businesses near the Queen Charlotte condos would
Business owners in the Queen Charlotte condominium building have had their request granted by Amherstburg town council and two-hour parking will be implemented in front of the building. The business owners had complained that employees from other local businesses in the area were parking in front of their businesses all day and not leaving any spaces for their customers. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
request that the two-hour limit be changed back. Mayor Aldo DiCarlo recalled the parking lot issue when a two-hour limit was placed on it and said some business owners and nearby condominium owners were upset with the loss of parking but “to be fair, they were not aware of all the all-day parking around there.” DiCarlo said he understood the issue presented by Nuccelli’s and Happier Camper as there are no spots for their customers right in front of the building. Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche said he agreed with the request, stating the commercial area is expanding south down Dalhousie St. He recalled meeting with business owners and employees and the issue of staff using on-street parking was brought up then. “The time has come. Nothing is for free. If we give two-hour parking on the street without charging, that’s fine,” he said. “As we move into parking lots with all-day parking, it has to come at some cost. The service delivery report talks about ways of generating revenue. Should we be generating revenue with these parking lots? There is an issue we need to talk about on a grander scale as the core develops more and there’s more pressure on parking.” Councillor Don McArthur moved the motion to institute two-hour limits in front of the Queen Charlotte condos, noting that could be done immediately while council can still look at other parking ideas for the downtown area. “I think can resolve this now and continue to look at the situation,” agreed Councillor Marc Renaud, noting there are spots southward on Dalhousie St. that would still have no parking limits. DiCarlo said a study likely wouldn’t be useful during the pandemic. He noted the town put in 15-minute curbside pickup spots downtown and could also address the issue in front of the Queen Charlotte even on a short-term basis. “It won’t be done until we get this parking study complete,” the mayor added.
“The time has come. Nothing is for free"
Keep Reading! No injuries or charges in truck rollover The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment were called to a truck rollover last Wednesday morning on South Side Road. According to police, the driver of the propane truck moved over to make room for another vehicle, hit a patch of ice and tipped over. There were no injuries. The stretch of South Side Road between Concession 9 South and Smith Road was closed for several hours while tow trucks got the vehicle off of its side and off of the shoulder. The road re-opened later that afternoon. There were no charges, police add. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
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Official word still pending on Admirals’ season, though time growing short By Ron Giofu While there was nothing official as of last weekend from governing bodies about the fate of Jr. C hockey, there is growing pessimism that there will be a 2020-21 PJHL Stobbs Division season. Amherstburg Admirals co-owner Wes Ewer said last Saturday afternoon he didn’t have any official updates on the fate of the season, which league officials and governing bodies had hoped to have underway by now. Original plans had hoped the season would be able to start Dec. 1 or Jan. 1 but the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has caused further delays and there is still nothing official about when, or if, there will be a season. Ewer said not only is there no word on the season, meetings between league officials are “dwindling down” and said the Admirals are at least hoping they can get back on the ice, whenever ice is reinstalled at the Libro Centre, for conditioning camps and skates. “This is usually playoff time,” he pointed out. Should a season actually begin, it would present additional issues for teams like the Admirals as it would mean the season and playoffs would extend longer than normal. Ewer said that would mean they would have to buy ice during times when the town usually doesn’t offer it, such as the warmer months of the year. “There are a lot of municipalities, including ours, that don’t offer ice in the summer,” said Ewer. Ewer is also a board member with the Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association and said any organized play is finished for the season there. He said tryouts are currently in the plans for August but should the town put ice back in at the Libro Centre this spring, it would only be for practices and games, and no organized games. On the Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association
The Amherstburg Admirals participate in a game last season, however time is growing short for a season to be held this season. No official word has come about Jr. C hockey, but there will be no game play for minor hockey for the rest of the 2020-21 season. There is currently no ice installed at the Libro Centre. RTT File Photo
(AMHA) website, it states “Please note that as of Feb. 1, the Bluewater League associations have agreed to cease all cohort hockey activities for the remainder of the 2020-21 season. Our current Public Health restrictions, the provincial lockdown, and the lack of visibility to what changes may be coming in the spring has made it impossible to provide viable hockey programming this
winter. While some individual associations may find a way to provide skills development hockey later in Feb. or beyond, it will not include the (modified) game play that we have enjoyed in the Fall. If you have additional questions please contact your Center Rep.”
March Break now coming in April, says province By Ron Giofu The Ontario government announced last week that March Break will now be in April due to circumstances surrounding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Minister of Education Stephen Lecce stated last Thursday that March Break has been postponed until April 12-16. According to Lecce, the decision was made in consultation with Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and public health officials. “Many students have been learning remotely since the start of 2021. It is critical we follow public health advice to protect schools and avoid a repeat of the concerning spike in youth-related cases over the winter break, when students and staff were out of schools for a prolonged period of time. We are taking this precaution based on advice from health experts, including the province’s Science Table and the Chief Medical Officer of Health, to help protect against the emerging COVID-19 variants of concern,” Lecce said in a statement. “We appreciate the hard work of students and staff in the education sector and I want to be clear: March Break is being postponed, not cancelled. To keep schools open, we must keep them free of COVID-19. The actions announced today serve to limit opportunities for congregation - while reaffirming the evidence that schools are safe for students. By continuing to follow public health advice, and by introducing additional safety measures and more testing, we are supporting our collective efforts to keep COVID-19 from entering our schools.” Lecce added that Ontarians should refrain from travelling, “particularly given the increase in new variants that pose a direct risk to our country. Please stay at home as much as possible and continue following the direction of public health officials so that we can keep schools open and protect our seniors, frontline health workers and all families.” Education unions, however, opposed the move in a joint statement released later Thursday.
The Association des enseignantes et des enseignants franco-ontariens (AEFO), the Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO), the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association (OECTA), and the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) state they “strongly oppose the government’s plan to postpone March Break.” Saying these are unprecedented times, and “this is a much-needed break for students, teachers, education workers, and families who have been under tremendous pressure” throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The unions claim the government’s decision to postpone March Break “does not take into consideration the mental health and well-being of those involved.” The unions believe the postponement of March Break shows, yet again, the “inadequacies” of the provincial government’s planning. They ask “if there are concerns related to travel and gatherings during March Break, these should be addressed by the government through other means. Why did Premier Doug Ford reopen the economy when it is clear risks remain? Is he concerned that his stay-at-home orders are ineffective? If so, he should address the real issue: this government’s ongoing failure to prevent the spread of COVID-19.” “Their decision to postpone, despite unanimous opposition from unions representing educators and other stakeholders in the sector, including all school board associations and the Ontario Principals’ Council, is another example of this government ignoring experts and making decisions that are reckless and baseless,” the unions state. “This decision demonstrates their lack of understanding about the stress and pressures of learning and working in a pandemic. Teachers and education workers have gone to extraordinary lengths to teach and support students every day since the start of the school year, whether in person or online. Their efforts should be applauded not diminished.” The unions call for the Ford government to “immediately reverse their decision to postpone March Break” and “listen to the voices of frontline workers in the education community.”
12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
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It is with broken hearts we had to say goodbye to our mother, Freda May Bennett (nee Carnahan) who passed away peacefully on February 7th, 2021. Loving wife of Charles Bennett ( July 28, 2020). Dear sister of Ester Matthews, Erma Jean Brown and Glen Carnahan (all predeceased). Freda was a loving and devoted mother to Barbara (Ted Bondy), Colin, Debra (Vaughan Clayton), Tracy (Brad Blackburn), Shelley and Vicki (Michel Wynands). Treasured grandmother of Corrie ( Jason), Christie (Shawn), Curtis (Corrie), Chris, Bianca ( Jake), Brittany (Mike), Chelsea (Phil), Taylor (Ryan), and Jonathon. Fun loving great grandmother to Julia, Grace, Jaxson, Spencer, Adam, Zahra, Chase, Evan, Nolan, Liv and Laney. Freda was born a New Years Day Baby!!! The youngest of 4 children to Robert and Eva (Nicholson) Carnahan. Life on the family farmstead would groom her to become one strong willed, smart, logical and caring woman. Born during the depression era, she would experience her first lesson in life, to learn the true value of things. During Freda’s high school years, sports were her passion, thus excelling in Basketball. She loved to entertain at family functions, playing the piano for sing-alongs. She was up for the adventure of attending Graceland College in Lamoni, Iowa, especially with her future sisterin-law Viv. It was secretarial and business courses that caught her attention. Freda had a few career changes over the years due to a growing and busy family life. They would span from secretarial, to caregiver, to housekeeping. Mom was well respected in her secretarial field, so much so, that when companies needed an impartial party to type up contracts… she was the one! Manual typewriters were it. Now they are classified retro and come in many colours. There was no slowing Freda down. She would also help out her sister and husband at their meat stall at the Windsor Market on Saturdays. Browns Quality Meats was a legend. Freda cherished her church life. Freda loved to volunteer for any gathering such as Friday family fun nights, Easter and Thanksgiving dinners, luncheons and packing Christmas baskets for families in need. She opened her door to everyone she knew, whom needed to feel like they belong. Cousins and friends were always welcomed, respected and acknowledged. Freda’s home was her haven, and her comfort zone. She felt most comfortable being behind the scenes kinda woman. She did what she had to, to get things done. Her passions in life were, caring for her family, loving her grandchildren and great grandchildren and cherished any family or friend dropping by for a visit. She also loved sewing, crocheting, watching a good championship series of baseball, basketball, hockey and golf, enjoying a good word search puzzle and it goes without saying …..JEOPARDY AND WHEEL OF FORTUNE!!!!!!! In closing, I would like to take a moment to reflect on all the changes my mother would of seen over the 9 decades of her life, and that is one amazing history lesson in itself.. The transformation of planes, trains and automobiles, fashion, eye wear, hair styles, music, cell phones and computers and most of all having the comfort of a flushable toilet. All these things we take for granted today. Her legacy of knowledge, common sense and love will be greatly missed. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Richmond Terrace for the care they have provided Freda over the years. Cremation has taken place and the family has chosen to have a private Celebration of Life. In kindness donations can be made to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission at 298 Victoria Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. Refer to the website at aburgmission.ca, …. call the office 519-7369140, …. Manager Tim at 226-345-0854. (Tax receipts provided). Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE (Amherstburg) 519-254-2585. For more on Freda’s life and to share condolences and cherished memories with the family, please visit www.simplechoicecremation.ca
SERVICES “INTERIORS BY SHERRY” Home design: painting, wall papering, blinds. Call sherry Donne for a free in home consultation. 519-971-8574. _______________________
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14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Kicks & Giggles
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New Essex County library system pilot project being started in McGregor
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, you are feeling ambitious this week, so it might be time to try a new hobby or other interest. Write down your goals and see if any align with potential hobbies. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, some nice surprises are likely to come your way, especially in your private life. Enjoy every moment as it unfolds and express your appreciation when applicable.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, you are likely to upstage everyone else this week because people simply cannot get enough of your magnetic personality. If you grow weary of the limelight, take a break. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, clear your social schedule in favor of some quiet time at home. Such a respite can provide a great opportunity to reflect and make a new plan. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you have a goal to meet someone new and there’s a good chance you will discover that person in the days to come. Accept the possibility that hopes and dreams can come true. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, friends often end up filling familial roles. Even though a person may not be related by blood, certain friends can be relied upon through thick and thin. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Even though the holidays are over you may still want to continue the celebration, Libra. Find a way to socialize with friends or family in a responsible manner. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you may be finished with the business that made last month hectic. Now you are ready to start a new chapter. A calm period is ahead.
The Essex County Library system will be starting a new pilot project once COVID-19 restrictions start to relax, with the first site to be tried being the McGregor branch. That was reported by library board member and Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche at a recent online meeting. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
By Ron Giofu A new pilot project to allow additional usage of Essex County libraries and to keep library staff safe is planned to get underway at the McGregor branch. Essex County library board member and Essex Deputy Mayor Richard Meloche reported that “something exciting” was happening to libraries starting with the McGregor branch. “We’re going to be starting a program and it just happens McGregor is the first branch that’s going to be set up like this,” said Meloche. “It’s a copy from the Hamilton library system which will allow the library to be open 49 hours a week.” Cameras will be set up where activity in the library can be watched and filmed but the door will be outfitted where the library card will open the door. “The library won’t necessarily have to be staffed for the entire 49 hours but it will allow users to go in, use their computers there, use the Internet,” said Meloche. Meloche said people will be allowed to search for books and that the collection is digitized and people will be able to scan their own books out. “This is going to help with the whole COVID issues, being such a big realization there is lot of touching of books that doesn’t necessarily have to happen for the safety of our librarians and staff,” he said. “We’re going to have people in the future scan their own books rather than have the librarians have to touch the books and scan the books.” Meloche added that “this is the next step in the evolution of libraries. It’s going to be able to allow us to have these open more hours.” He stated that staff will still have the same amount of hours but on different days of the week. “It gives an opportunity to make use of that building and the assets of the library to the community. To me, it’s a win-win situation,” he said. The new program will start once COVID-19 projects start to relax, Meloche said. He added that the Harrow branch of the Essex County library system will be the second to try the pilot project. “It’s exciting news,” he said.
Book Review
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, a potentially lucrative opportunity may present itself in the days to come. Consider all of your options and give equal though to all of them. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, even if you don’t say much, there is a lot of chatter going on in your head. Take some time to find a quiet place and meditate for a while. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Sometimes you just have to take a risk without vetting all of the possible outcomes, Aquarius. If it feels like it’s a good time to make a change, embrace the opportunity. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 This week is the ideal opportunity to show strength and exhibit your organizational skills, Pisces. Don’t be afraid to think big. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY 14 - Freddie Highmore, Actor (29) FEBRUARY 15 - Matt Groening, Cartoonist (67) FEBRUARY 16 - Ice T, Actor (63) FEBRUARY 17 - Ed Sheeran, Singer (30) FEBRUARY 18 - Vanna White, TV Host (64) FEBRUARY 19 - Millie Bobby Brown, Actress (17) FEBRUARY 20 - Trevor Noah, Comic (37)
WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to bath safety. ANSWERS ON PAGE 13
PET By Akwaeke Emezi Young Adult Fiction A
darkly
whimsical
story
full
of
representation and underlying themes. Set in the utopian city of Lucille in which “angels” have rid the city of monsters resulting in a world where there are no bad people or bad things. Jam, the main character, lives a life in which she is fully accepted, loved and cherished. Her parents, Bitter and Aloe, are understanding and supportive. The community around her adjusts and adapts to make her feel fully integrated. Life is good - until Jam meets PET who inexplicably comes alive from one of Jam’s mother’s paintings. PET maintains that while he looks like a monster he is actually hunting one, one that may be related to Jam’s best friend. Jam agrees to accompany PET if only to prove him wrong about her friend. The story is both a whimsical tale told in a straightforward way and a deeper story that addresses morality, standing up for yourself and others and the premise that just because you don’t acknowledge evil doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. The writing is beautiful, full of imagery and metaphor.
Wednesday, February 17, 2021 – River Town Times – 15
www.rivertowntimes.com
Port Windsor helps out homeless with donation of socks By Ron Giofu While many people donate food and other clothing to homeless shelters, the donation of socks is not often thought of. That is why Port Windsor stepped up to the plate. Port Windsor has donated 850 pairs of winter socks to four homeless shelters in the Windsor area. This represents one pair for each of the 850 workers, who come to work each day at Port Windsor, pointed out Windsor Port Authority president and CEO Steve Salmons. Frigid temperatures during this current polar vortex have put the homeless at particular risk of exposure and frostbite and Salmons pointed out many people will often only have a pair or two and wear them out. The availability of new, clean socks is critical to weathering the current temperatures and Salmons said they are the number one thing shelters ask for. The socks donated are of thicker, higher grade and are used by people who work outside. Many people and organizations generously donate winter clothing and money to the homeless, but time and time again, studies shows that the most desperate need, and the most appreciated gift, is a new, clean pair of warm socks, the Windsor Port Authority states. “As we run in and out ofr warm buildings and return to our heated homes, let us remember that there are those who have few options to hide from the cold and must bulk up in clothing and warm gear to survive the winter,” said Salmons. “On behalf of the 850 workers of Port Windsor, we are proud to offer this modest act of help and assistance and raise awareness of those in need in our community.” According to Socks 4 Souls Canada, socks are the most needed but least donated item of clothing to homeless shelters. Over 20 per cent of medical problems experienced by homeless people are related to foot care. New socks minimize the possibility of frostbite, and reduce the risk of cellulitis, impetigo, fungal infection, trench foot and skin breakdown. Since walking is the primary form of transportation for homeless people, good
“Socks are the most needed but least donated item of clothing to homeless shelters"
Windsor Port Authority harbour master Peter Berry and president/CEO Steve Salmons show the pairs of socks they donated to four groups in Windsor. The donation was made last Friday. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
foot care allows them better access food, shelter, medical and housing services. Port Windsor distributed the boxes of socks to the Downtown Mission, Salvation Army, Street Help and the Welcome Centre. Ontario's third largest port, each year the Port Authority receives more than 600 ships, delivering more than five million tonnes of aggregate, salt, steel and grain to Windsor-Essex, and ports across the Great Lakes, and into Europe. It also hosts Ontario's largest ship fueling depot. The Windsor Port Authority is a federal Corporation under the Marine Act (1999) as one of just 17 national ports established to promote the growth, competitiveness and prosperity of Canada's economy. Each year, Port Windsor donates 3% of its revenues to charitable and community needs. In 2021, the Windsor Port Authority will donate in excess of $40,000 locally.
Town launches mosaic mural art project, hope to have it done by Canada Day By Ron Giofu The Town of Amherstburg hopes to bring the community together in a different way and are turning to art to help do it. The town’s tourism department is helping to produce a new mural which they aim to have unveiled on Canada Day. Sarah Van Grinsven, a tourism co-ordinator with the town, said they were talking about what to do for Canada Day since there is doubt they can have an in-person event this year due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Out of that, the community mosaic mural project was created. “It’s something happy people can get involved in right now,” said Van Grinsven. Van Grinsven said tourism staff started talking about what could unify the community “and bring us together” and they started working with a company known as Mural Mosaic. Instead of having people come together and paint a tile that would be used as a mosaic, they are using more COVID-friendly methods by having people come together virtually and submitting work they do at home with their immediate families. People are asked to use paint, crayons, markers, pastels or whichever medium they choose, said Van Grinsven, pointing out the initiative is open to all ages. The participant(s) would then take a digital photograph of their work and forward it along. “You simply take a picture of it and submit it to the website link,” said Van Grinsven. “(Mural Mosaic) puts it together.” It will be part of a mural that will be installed in the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. It will be a permanent installation. The theme of the community mosaic mural project is just that – community. It is limited to the first 500 entrants and the artwork will be part of the final piece, which Van Grinsven stated will be six-feet tall by 12-feet wide. “It’s completely free,” she added. “It’s a great community celebration.” Van Grinsven stated they would love to have community groups get involved with the mosaic mural project.
The Town of Amherstburg is hoping to engage the community on a new community mosaic mural project. The project runs through March 31 with the unveiling to be at the Amherstburg Community Hub on Canada Day. For more information, visit www.visitamherstburg.ca/events/mural. Photo courtesy the Visit Amherstburg website
“We’d love to have community groups make this an activity as well,” said Van Grinsven. “Community groups are a big part of what makes us awesome.” For more information on the community mosaic mural project, visit www. visitamherstburg.ca/events/mural.
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 17, 2021
www.rivertowntimes.com
The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg 2021 Summer Student Lottery Positions Public Works Student General Labourers Parks Student General Labourers Eligible candidates for these positions must be in attendance at a secondary school, college or university, and must be returning to school on a full time basis in September 2021. Must possess a valid Class G2 Driver’s License at minimum. The detailed job descriptions and Student Lottery Guidelines are available on the Town’s website at careers.amherstburg.ca. Qualified applicants and returning students are invited to apply online at careers.amherstburg.ca no later than Friday, March 12th 2021 at 4:30 p.m.
The Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg 2021 Summer Student Position GIS Technician Student (Non-Lottery Position)
The GIS Technician Student assists in maintaining all aspects of the Town’s GIS. Eligible applicants will be currently attending a college or university program with a concentration in Geomatics and/or Civil or Environmental Engineering. Visit careers.amherstburg.ca for a detailed job description. Qualified applicants are invited to submit a resume outlining qualifications and experience as they relate to the position no later than Friday March 12th 2021 at 4:30 p.m. to resumes@amherstburg.ca.
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. 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