River Town Times - January 13, 2021

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Wednesday, January 13, 2021

Unifor Locals 444, 200 and 2458 each donated $5,000 to The House Youth Centre last Wednesday afternoon. Unifor Local 1959 (not pictured) also donated $1,000, bringing the overall donation total to $16,000. The money will help The House with its move from 247 Brock St. to the Amherstburg Community Hub as well as with its youth programming. From left: D.J. Lacey, plant chair with Unifor Local 200 at Diageo, Unifor Local 2458 president Tullio DiPonti, Unifor Local 444 president Dave Cassidy, The House Youth Centre program director Natalyn Brouillard, House fundraising committee members Amy Bailey and Jay Bondy. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Unifor steps up to help The House

By Ron Giofu Four Unifor locals have stepped up to help The House Youth Centre and they have raised a combined $16,000.

Unifor Local 444, Local 200 and Local 2458 each donated $5,000 and will have rooms dedicated to them at The House’s new home within the Amherstburg Community Hub. Unifor Local 1959 donated $1,000 and that will sponsor a homework area at the new location.

Amy Bailey, a member of the fundraising committee with The House Youth Centre, noted they had to “reinvent” how they fundraised after they learned they would no longer receive funding from the United Way. She said they still want to offer and promote services being offered by The House, so they looked at different ways of acquiring the necessary cash to keep going.

Natalyn Brouillard, program director with The House, said representatives from The House met with Unifor officials to make their pitch and were very grateful the unions took them up on their request. She said they are continuing to reach out to the community to help them with the move and with offering the youth programming offered by The House.

“With COVID-19, we were unable to host our annual fundraisers,” said Brouillard.

The House Youth Centre hopes to be in its new home later this winter, with February being the target date.

They are occupying half of the former gymnasium space in what was St. Bernard School with the Fighting Island Boxing Club taking the other half. They are leaving their long-time home at 247 Brock St. In addition to their peer mentorship program, Brouillard said The House is aiming to bring in additional services so that youth can stay in Amherstburg

and not have to go to Windsor.

When in-person meetings are allowed once again, there will be two larger meeting rooms with other rooms also available for other services. The homework area is an open space near the front of The House’s space inside the hub.

Currently, The House is hosting online meetings.

Grade 9 and Grade 11 meetings are held virtually on Tuesdays while Grade 10 and Grade 12 meetings are being held virtually Wednesdays.

Brouillard added that they will continue to be involved in looking for support from Amherstburg and surrounding communities and they are not slowing down after the Unifor donations. She indicated they are open to adding more services as well.

“We’re not stopping here,” said Brouillard. “We’re going to continue reaching out to the community.”

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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Town council interested seeing former House site designated

The building at 247 Brock Street, which the House Youth Centre occupied for over four decades, was the subject of debate at Monday night’s town council meeting as the town’s heritage committee would like to see town administration engage the owners to have it designated as a historic building. The building was constructed in 1911 and was formerly St. Anthony School. The House is moving to the Amherstburg Community Hub. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

By Ron Giofu

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Could the former home of The House Youth Centre eventually receive a heritage designation?

Amherstburg town council and the town’s heritage committee seemed interested in making that happen.

Town council discussed the matter at its virtual meeting Monday night.

The heritage committee unanimously agreed at its Nov. 12 meeting to recommend to town council that administration be directed to engage the owners of 247 Brock St. about designating the property. The matter came before town council Monday with Councillor Patricia Simone, town council’s representative on the heritage committee, stating that she recalled preliminary discussions being held about having the property receive a heritage designation.

“This was to forward the discussion,” she said of the committee’s motion.

John Miceli, the town’s chief administrative officer (CAO), said he has had recent discussions with the Catholic Diocese of London about the building and its potential sale.

“We have not had discussion about actually having the property designated,” Miceli stated.

The building is designated institutional, the CAO added, and that if a potential new owner wanted to change uses of the building, that town council would have a voice in what could happen at that site. A similar use to that of The House Youth Centre would not require a rezoning, he noted, but if rumoured uses such as residential were to occur, a rezoning would have to take place and that would require council’s involvement, Miceli indicated.

“It’s a very old building,” said Councillor Don McArthur. “There’s nothing to protect it right now?”

McArthur added he has heard from residents suggesting what future uses of the 247 Brock St. property could be, with such uses as affordable housing and a home for victims of violence.

“Is there anything we can do to ensure the property benefits the residents of Amherstburg or do we let the market take care of it?” he asked.

Miceli responded by stating there is no designation, but it is a “property of interest” from a heritage perspective. He said he has reached out to the agent selling the property on behalf of the Diocese of London and there could be offers on the building by February.

Councillor Marc Renaud believed the town should be ready to get involved at the site and work with the seller to protect the building and keep it an “active” site.

The House Youth Centre has left the site, their home for most of its existence.

Originally known as The House of Shalom, it was founded by Father John Ware in 1971 and moved to 247 Brock St. a few years later.

The building at 247 Brock St. was originally St. Anthony School. According to the volume two of the book “Amherstburg 1796-1996: A New Town on the Garrison Grounds” authored by the Amherstburg Bicentennial Book Committee, St. Anthony School was built on the southeast corner of Brock and Gore Streets in 1911 “to alleviate overcrowding at St. Rose Elementary School. Initially only the students in the lower grades were transferred to St. Anthony’s as the new limestone school then contained only four classrooms. When St. Anthony’s was enlarged to eight classrooms in 1929, the remaining elementary school students were transferred from St. Rose School. Over the years, St. Anthony’s accommodated various arrangements of grades, being used for a while as a primary/junior school and later as an intermediate/senior school. St. Anthony’s was closed in 1972 and its students transferred to newer facilities.”

Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – River Town Times – 3

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Health professionals urge people to listen to the COVID-19 guidance and stay home

By Ron Giofu Leaders within the health care industry gathered via Zoom call last week to urge people to stay home, stay safe and reduce the demand on hospitals and paramedics.

In a Zoom call hosted by Erie Shores Healthcare (ESHC), leaders from within the local health care industry including Hotel-Dieu Grace (HDGH) CEO Janice Kaffer, ESHC CEO Kristin Kennedy, Essex-Windsor EMS chief Bruce Krauter and Windsor Regional Hospital chief of staff Dr. Wassim Saad gathered virtually to urge people to follow health care restrictions to avoid the health care restrictions getting overwhelmed with cases of COVID-19.

The hospital and EMS leaders also asked people to avoid believing everything they read on social media and follow the advice put forth by local, provincial and national health care professionals.

The health care leaders agreed that their respective staffs are getting worn out dealing with the high volume of cases, and believed some of it could be avoided if Leaders from within the local health care industry including Hotel-Dieu Grace (HDGH) CEO Janice Kaffer, ESHC CEO Kristin Kennedy, people would just stay home, go out only for essential Essex-Windsor EMS chief Bruce Krauter and Windsor Regional Hospital (Metropolitan Campus pictured) chief of staff Dr. Wassim Saad gathered virtually last Monday to urge people to follow health care restrictions to avoid the health care restrictions getting overwhelmed trips, wear masks and refrain from large gatherings. with cases of COVID-19. People were urged to follow public health guidelines and avoid putting too much stock into “anti-science” talk “They’re tired,” Krauter said of his staff. “The they may hear on social media. Photo from Google Maps paramedics have been doing this since March 20.”

Krauter said while call volume was actually down during the first wave of the “For those of you who don’t have a positive opinion of what we do, just don’t go on pandemic, it has shot up dramatically during the second phase. social media and share it,” said Kaffer. “Keep your opinions to yourselves for a while.

“Our call volume has skyrocketed day-after-day,” he said of the second wave.

“We all have to keep each other safe,” added Kennedy. “We need the help of the “(Paramedics) are very busy and we are seeing it in the staff. They are extremely tired.” community. We need them to protect themselves, their loved ones, their neighbours Krauter said “we’re living it every day” as it relates to looking after COVID-19 and the health care workers.” patients and others who need help and said more people need to start following the “If we’re not in a crisis yet, we’re going to be soon,” cautioned Krauter. “Social directives set out by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit and medical officer of media, although great to get the word out, it’s a double-edged sword.” health Dr. Wajid Ahmed.

Krauter added people “have to believe the science."

“Going out with your friends is not OK right now,” he said.

Saad added just because there is a vaccine, it may take a while for everyone who Kaffer said human resources aren’t finite and staffing can only be stretched so far. wants it to get it.

She said her staff “are deeply concerned” about each other. In addition to working for “This could take up to a year or more to vaccinate everyone,” he said. “It’s not time the patients and their families, “they are working for each other.” to relax on public health measures. It’s actually the worst time to do it.”

“We need people in the community to do more than what they’re doing right now,” said Kaffer.

Kennedy agreed that “resources are depleted” OPEN and that “we need to be cognizant of that.”

SUNDAY ESHC has had to make “challenging decisions” 9-3 in light of the ongoing and escalating COVID-19 CLOSED pandemic and that a third COVID-19 unit has been MONDAY Serving the Community Since 1970 opened at the Leamington hospital.

“We have seen a significant increase in the number of positive cases coming into our emergency room and probable cases as well,” said Kennedy.

Saad also said Windsor Regional Hospital’s Prices in effect Thursday, January 14th to Wednesday, January 20th resources are getting thin. As for why a field hospital hasn’t been re-established, he Grade “A.A” “A.A.A” said it was never meant to be an acute care facility and that it takes staff to look after those additional beds. ........................................... lb “There’s a whole team that looks after people,” said Saad. “It’s not just physical space.”

Breaded Kaffer believed the impacts from the Christmas season are starting to be seen right lb ............................................ now. She said she worked Christmas Day to help out staff and as she travelled to and from work, she spotted “lots and lots of full driveways that are not usually full.”

Grade “A.A” “A.A.A” She added she worries what happens if someone needs care after an accident and the hospitals are full. ..... lb People should only shop by themselves, Krauter stated.

Mastro “I’m trying to figure out what is essential in a big box store that a carload of people need to go in,” he asked. “It doesn’t have to be a family outing.” ................................. lb sliced Krauter added there are days where they run out of ambulances due to a surge in COVID-19 cases and “it’s a scary situation.”

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“That’s going to make our system better in the long run,” he said.

Kennedy feared the next four to six weeks could be “some of our darkest days” and said there is a need for spiritual and mental health care as well. Saad said health care workers are not immune to the coronavirus and also pointed out mental health concerns.

“They have families,” Saad stated of health care workers. “They have people to look after.”

Kaffer said there is a “natural human reaction to pushing away reality we don’t like” and urged people to be careful of what they read on social media.

N Ethnic Market Making a “There’s a whole anti-science rhetoric and myth that feeds the beast,” said Kaffer.

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“If we’re not in a crisis yet, we’re going to be soon"

4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Local restaurants offering gift cards, reader says “just ask” for them RE: January 6, 2021 letter from Marie Caron regarding “dining gift cards” Ms. Caron was saddened that she did not receive gift certificates from our wonderful local eateries, and want to assure her that those are available for the asking!

I was blessed to receive two - one from the maker of the world’s best broasted chicken, Mealtime Express - and the other from our excellent Golden Gate Chinese Restaurant! I can assure Marie Caron that any and all of our outstanding dining spots would be more than pleased to provide gift certificates to kindly benefactors to pass on to recipients! Just ask!

—Marcie Graham Amherstburg

Representatives from The House Youth Centre give union officials from Unifor Locals 200, 444 and 2458 a tour inside the space where The House will be occupying inside of the Amherstburg Community Hub. The House hopes to be inside the hub in February. Four local Unifor locals, which also included Local 1959, combined for a donation of $16,000 last Wednesday afternoon.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Four locals within Unifor donate to youth centre

Memories of Yesterday...

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

Known as Mirielle and later Chateau la Rose, this was the grand home of the Napoleon A. Coste family. The house was built in 1883 when the Costes returned from France where Napoleon worked as an engineer on the construction of the Suez Canal. It was razed in 1960. More information on the impressive Coste family is available at the Marsh Collection.

Continued from Page 1 Unifor Local 444 president Dave Cassidy said he knows The House caters to youth and they have had difficulties during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic raising funds.

“We’ve always supported the community,” said Cassidy. “We are community partners. We’ve helped many in Windsor-Essex County. That’s what it’s about – the community partnerships.”

Tullio DiPonti, president of Unifor Local 2458, agreed with Cassidy and said the locals want to make sure people, including local youth, get the assistance they need.

“We’re stepping up to make sure they have the funds to help people in need,” said DiPonti. “We make sure we are taking care of our families and our neighbours.”

D.J. Lacey, plant chair with Unifor Local 200 with Diageo, said they are pleased to assist with causes and organizations within the community.

“We’re always happy stepping up to help,” said Lacey.

Brouillard added The House Youth Centre welcomes all donations and inquiries about adding services. They can be reached currently at info@houseyouthcentre.ca. People can also follow them through their social media platforms including Facebook (www.facebook.com/TheHouseYouthCentre), Twitter (@ TheHouseYC), or Instagram (@thehouseyouthcentre).

According to its website (www.houseofshalom.ca), “The House was founded in 1971 by Father John Ware, who was a priest and a clinical psychologist, when he saw the need for a youth centre. His vision was a sort of second-home for the “in-between kids”– those who were too old for childish activities, but too young for all of the adult responsibility. He saw that the journey from childhood to adulthood can be littered with challenges and emotional pitfalls. It occurred to him that young people needed something beyond the educational and athletic atmosphere. The House quickly became that something. A lot has changed in our world since 1971, but the fundamental needs of youth has not.

Our unique peer support system remains overwhelmingly unchanged from what was designed by the first groups of volunteer leaders over 40 years ago.

The House strives to maintain an atmosphere that is welcoming of all youth, regardless of their culture, belief’s, ethnicity, or lifestyle. We run weekly peersupport meetings for youth in Grades 9 – 12; these meetings are geared to address issues that our youth are currently facing. These meetings provide a nonjudgmental forum for youth to explore what is going on in their world, how they feel about it, and what can be done. Together, we’re helping today’s youth become tomorrow’s leaders.”

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Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – River Town Times – 5

House Youth Centre organizing local “Coldest Night of the Year” efforts

By Ron Giofu The House Youth Centre is raising money as part of a national initiative known as the “Coldest Night of the Year.”

The actual event is Feb. 20 but The House is joining other agencies across the region and beyond in promoting the initiative with “Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year” for the virtual event. As of press time, there were 13 teams with a total of 49 walkers signed up to participate locally with The House having raised $3,753 of their total $20,000 goal.

“The beauty of it being virtual is you don’t have to walk that day,” said Natalyn Brouillard, program director with The House.

“Typically on the day of the event, the whole nation will be getting together to walk in support of the charity organizing the event. Due to COVID, the nation is restricted to promoting large gatherings due to the pandemic. Therefore, holding a virtual event means the walk and fundraising will be done virtually.”

On Feb. 20, Brouillard said the walk can be done anywhere and anytime.

“All donations are made online, making it easier for our teams/walkers. A donation of $20 will get you a tax receipt and help you help the youth in our community and surrounding areas,” she said.

Brouillard said each team has a goal of raising $1,4000 with the proceeds raised locally going to

“What we are also looking for is corporate support!"

The House Youth Centre is participating in the “Coldest Night of the Year” event, with this year’s event being held virtually. The walk takes place Feb. 20 but participants can do it on their own and not gather together due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The House. She said organizers were looking for an agency between Windsor and Chatham to host an event and partnered with The House.

“We jumped on the opportunity right away,” said Brouillard.

The event is to raise money for charities serving

people experiencing homelessness, hurt and hunger.

“The organization reached out to The House in October to see if we were interested in hosting this event to bring more awareness to us as a non-profit/ charitable organization with this fundraising opportunity. Without hesitation, we agreed and began working towards this event since,” said Brouillard.

Brouillard stated The House believes that the $20,000 goal is “very achievable with the support from the Amherstburg citizens and surrounding areas.” She said The House is looking for motivated individuals who are willing to be a team leader and recruit a team of six or more walkers. Each walker on that team is responsible to raise their own funds to help reach the collective goal. Walkers and teams would receive a CNOY toque and mask once they hit their fundraising goal to wear on or around the event day!

“What we are also looking for is corporate support!” she added. “We would love for them to either put together a team with their co-workers or be an event sponsor. Signing up as a corporation or business or organization will give you national recognition on The Coldest Night of the Year website which is supporting 144 walks around Canada. This is great branding.”

If anyone has interest in finding out more information as to how they can help or support local walkers or a team, they can go to https:// cnoy.org/locations/amherstburg to donate. They can also follow Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ AmherstburgsColdestNight) or Twitter (https:// twitter.com/AmherstburgCNOY) to stay in touch.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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“Family Fuse” launched to help Black parents, guardians navigate education system

By Ron Giofu

A program to help Black families better navigate the education system was officially launched last week.

The group “Family Fuse” has been established with the assistance of a $253,500 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) and the latter’s youth opportunities fund. Family Fuse is also aided by organizational mentor WEST (Women’s Enterprise Skills Training) of Windsor.

Christie Nelson, who founded Family Fuse with Clarese Carter and Salem Berhane, said they approached the OTF with a series of ideas about two years ago and while they were turned down at that point, they refocused around the singular goal of education and reapplied.

This time, they were successful.

“Together, we are educating with purpose,” said Nelson, during an online press conference last Wednesday morning.

Carter pointed out figures from Statistic Canada which states 59 per cent of young Black students don’t believe that getting a bachelor’s degree is attainable.

She added about 20 per cent of Black students drop out of high school, about double that of White students and other cultures.

The EQAO scores of Black students are typically lower than other groups, she added.

“We’re facing systemic bias day-to-day,” said Carter.

Carter said education opens doors and they are trying to open more doors for Black families.

A large number of people from Family Fuse, partner agencies and others attended the virtual launch of Family Fuse last Wednesday morning. The organization helps Black families navigate the education system. More information on the organization can be found at www.familyfuse.ca. Screenshot

“One of our main objectives is making Black parents and guardians feel more confident in navigating the school system,” she said.

Bridging the gap between home and school is another major pillar of Family Fuse, added Carter.

“The domino effect of systemic racism, lack of education and poverty requires a wraparound approach that involves collaboration and dedication to the Black community. As parents with lived experiences, we know the impact that lack of support, lack of cultural competency and lack of understanding has had in our own households and in the homes of other parents,” said Nelson, who is also the program co-ordinator. “It is our goal to encourage parenting with education and purpose to overcome obstacles and to change the system.”

Family Fuse will work with local families through one-on-one coaching as well as through workshops, the latter of which could start virtually as soon as Feb. 9. In addition to the public launch, Family Fuse has also been reaching out to local families through e-mail via their partner organizations, which include Border

“One of our main objectives is making Black parents and guardians feel more confident in navigating the school system"

Christie Nelson, program director with Family Fuse, welcomes people to an online launch of the organization last Wednesday morning. The program helps Black parents and guardians navigate the education system and they received an Ontario Trillium Foundation grant of $253,5000 to help in their efforts. Screenshot

City Athletics, Sandwich Teen Action Group, Windsor Police Service, Youth Connection Association, the Greater Essex County District School Board, ReseauFemmes Southwestern Ontario, Because We Care by Families First as well as WEST of Windsor.

Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky acknowledged there are barriers in the educational system and hoped organizations like Family Fuse can help make necessary changes.

“I would like to extend my warm congratulations to Family Fuse on receiving this well-deserved Ontario Trillium Foundation grant.

This new organization promises to be a vital resource which will help the Black community in Windsor and Essex County have improved access to the education system and overcome the continuing destructive effects of racism and poverty,” said Gretzky.

Rose Anguiano Hurst of WEST of Windsor said it was “exciting” to see such a grassroots organization get off of the ground and said WEST was “excited to partner with Family Fuse.”

While the OTF funding will last over a span of three years, Nelson indicated they are open to accepting donations. People who are interested in making a donation or who just want more information on Family Fuse can visit www.familyfuse.ca, call 226-506-5872 or e-mail infofamilyfuse@gmail.com.

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

Local authors write new books, subjects independent of one another

By Ron Giofu A pair of Essex County authors have completed their new books with the books being written totally independent of one another.

The husband-and-wife team of Jim and Pamela Bondy, who both live near Essex, have debuted their new books with Jim writing “The Accidental Brotherhood” while Pamela wrote “Mother Knows: The Next Pandemic.”

Jim states his book is a fiction novel that sees his main characters “stumble into a different dimension” as a family camping trip turns adventurous with a feud occurring once they go into the next dimension.

“There’s a lot of adventure and suspense,” he said. “In the book, you will see a lot of parodies of our humanity.”

“The Accidental Brotherhood” took about ten years to write, but Jim said that once he retired, he was able to concentrate more of his time towards writing. In all, Jim estimated it took him about ten years to write his book.

Jim added he has written three books, one called “I Need” but that never got of the ground due to difficulties with the publisher at the time.

Pamela’s book is somewhat timely, though she didn’t mean it to be. The main character comes down with an illness only to discover people with the same illness and it details their efforts to overcome it and it is a way for the characters to find out what they want to do with their lives.

Pamela says her book is a “mystery survival” type of book while Jim states the genre of his book is a “fantasy adventure.”

While it has been released during the COVID-19 pandemic, Pamela said that is simply the way it worked out.

Pamela said she started writing “Mother Knows: The Next Pandemic” five years ago and it took her three years to write. She is writing other books as well but this one “took precedence” during her writing process.

“It’s just a coincidence that I wrote about a plague,” said Pamela.

Jim said “I just love writing” and writing a book was something he always wanted to do. He said the response has been positive so far.

“I’ve always loved telling stories my whole life,” said Pamela.

With the encouragement of family and friends, she wrote her book, remarking she never thought she would actually write one until she sat down at the keyboard.

While Jim has ideas for other books, he said he is concentrating his efforts on

“It’s just a coincidence that I wrote about a plague"

Area authors Jim and Pamela Bondy have each written a new book, though they wrote separate books on completely different topics. Jim’s book is a “fantasy adventure” entitled “The Accidental Brotherhood” while Pamela’s is a “mystery survival” novel called “Mother Knows: The Next Pandemic.” Both books are available through Amazon. Submitted photo

promoting their current books. Pamela is still writing and states she has another book due to come out in February or March. It is similar to “Mother Knows: The Next Pandemic,” she said.

“They love it,” Pamela said of her first book, stating family and friends “can’t believe I wrote it.”

“All of the people just love my book as well,” added Jim, joking he is taking criticism for cutting into people’s sleeping hours as “they can’t put it down.”

Both books are available on Amazon in both paperback and e-book form. Jim’s paperback book sells for $18.63 while Pamela’s sells for $15.61.

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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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Downtown hotel could be under construction later this year: Amico

By Ron Giofu

The developer of the hotel across from the former Duffy’s site is hopeful there could be a shovel in the ground in 2021.

The downtown hotel should be under construction this year, at least that is the aim of its developer Amico Infrastructures.

Cindy Prince, vice president of properties with Amico, said there is progress to report in gaining the downtown hotel. She said Amico has selected a brand that will operate the hotel, however she said they are required to keep the brand’s identity confidential for the time being.

Prince is hopeful that in three months or so, the identity of the hotel operator can be revealed but she predicted that when it is, residents will be pleased.

“It’s a brand I think Amherstburg will be excited to get,” she said.

In the meantime, architects are working on renderings of what the hotel could look like, with Prince stating those will be submitted to the Town of Amherstburg. She said the drawings will eventually go before the town’s heritage committee.

“It’s a bit of a balancing act between the brand’s requirements and the heritage district that we’re in,” Prince explained.

A site plan has been filed with the town, Prince added, but she stated the town wants to see more information including the drawings.

Prince acknowledges it is an odd time to be developing a hotel given that people are not supposed to be travelling amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, but is optimistic about the success of the project.

“We think the timing can be a good thing,” said Prince. “It is our hope when (the hotel) is completed, society will be excited to travel again.”

It is estimated that shovels could be in the ground at the site, located at the corner of Dalhousie St. and Gore St., by mid-2021.

“We would hope to commence construction sometime in the summer of 2021,” said Prince. “My best guess is we’re probably six months out.”

During the zoning process, the hotel was originally proposed as a maximum four-storey, 91-unit building. Prince said that has been revised

Land at the southeast corner of Dalhousie St. and Gore St. Is where the proposed hotel being developed by Amico is proposed.

If all goes according to plan, Amico hopes to have a shovel in the ground sometime in the summer, noting they have submitted a site plan to the Town of Amherstburg.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

to a building with 76 suites, but also on four storeys.

“It’s a little bit smaller of a footprint for the building,” she said.

Town council did have some concerns during the planning and zoning process with respect to whether there was enough parking at the site. Prince said there were originally 75 spaces for 91 suites but now there are 76 spaces for 76 suites with three spaces being barrier-free.

Some members of town council asked whether Amico could purchase the land currently occupied

by The Beer Store, but Prince indicated that will not be happening.

“We had discussions with the owners of the Beer Store property but for a variety of reasons, we are not pursuing that any further,” Prince stated, adding the development will occur within the property Amico already owns.

The development has an estimated value of about $15 million.

“We’re very excited about this project,” said Prince.

“We at Amico have learned an awful lot about hotel development that we weren’t familiar with. All in all, it’s been an exciting project.”

Prince added they are looking forward to also working with the town with the hope of having the hotel open for business in 2023.

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Safety Reminder After Child Ingests Cannabis Product

The Windsor Police Service is issuing an advisory regarding cannabis edibles after reporting that a child in Amherstburg accidentally ingested a cookie with cannabis in it.

Officers with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment attended a residence last Thursday in relation to a medical call Amherstburg Detachment involving a child.

According to police, officers arrived and it was reported that a young child had consumed a piece of a cookie containing a cannabis product.

Through investigation, police say it was learned an adult caregiver gave the child a piece of cookie that they were unaware at the time contained a cannabis product. The caregiver also consumed a piece of the cookie and believed there was something wrong with the cookie after tasting it.

Changes in the behaviour of the child caused concern, police add. The child was treated medically and did not suffer any life-threatening reactions.

The Windsor Police Service is reminding the public the importance of keeping cannabis edibles away from children, stating in a press release issued by public information officer Const. Talya Natyshak, that “this is an unfortunate example of how easily and quickly a child or even an adult can unknowingly consume an edible cannabis product.”

It is recommended by police that cannabis products should be stored out of reach of children, in child-resistant containers, locked-up, and all cannabis products should be clearly labeled in their original packaging.

For further information of cannabis legalization and regulations, please visit: https://www.justice. gc.ca/eng/cj-jp/cannabis/ The Windsor Police Service is also reminding the community that recreational cannabis can only be legally purchased on-line through the Ontario Cannabis Store or at one of the licensed authorized retail stores located in Ontario.

The Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment officers investigated the incident and no criminal charges are expected.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment at 519-736-8559, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www. catchcrooks.com

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Questions answered at council over recent recycling concerns

By Ron Giofu Concerns over recycling and the picking up thereof was a topic at the most recent meeting of Amherstburg town council.

Councillor Michael Prue said he received concerns about recycling crews from Windsor picking up recycling.

“I told him I didn’t think that could be correct but I subsequently found out that it is,” said Prue.

Mayor Aldo DiCarlo confirmed the switch was “advertised extensively” by the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA), who made the change. DiCarlo is vice chair of the EWSWA board of directors.

“There is a number of residents – not just in Amherstburg, but county-wide – that did not know we were switching despite the public announcements,” said DiCarlo. “This was simply a cost matter at the solid waste authority. There’s a very minimal amount of time left on the contracts.

Normally we would have carried over contracts but the previous provider was looking at some extensive cost increases so the solid waste authority decided to put it out for an RFP (request for proposals). That’s how we ended up switching.”

DiCarlo added other concerns included timing, noting the Windsor disposal is very timely and “almost too timely.”

He said many residents were not used to having to have their recycling out by 6 a.m. on the day of their scheduled pick up.

“They were used to seeing people later in the day so it appeared some of the stuff was not being picked up,” he stated. “Indeed, the City of Windsor went back and picked them up anyway despite already having been down there.”

DiCarlo asked residents to be patient while the transition continues to take place but believed as of late December most of the issues had been worked out.

Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche, who will rejoin the EWSWA board in 2021, said he has been asked about the white trucks and confirmed those are Windsor’s vehicles.

Meloche said he has been getting negative

Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – River Town Times – 9

The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter was able to have some yard sales at the home of Marc and Mary Beneteau earlier this year. Proceeds benefit the shelter run by Father Donato in the DR Congo. Submitted photo

Hope of St. Joseph Shelter says thanks

Recycling sits at the curb along Gore St. prior to the collection date pick up last week. Members of town council report they have been fielding calls since the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority chose to have the City of Windsor pick up the recycling in the county.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

feedback about recycling not being picked up for various reasons including goods being mixed and not being sorted properly and placed in the proper recycling box. The deputy mayor believed residents were “somewhat spoiled” by the previous provider while Windsor is being more strict with how items are sorted.

“The message has to get out to people with respect to the sorting so that we’re not having any complaints,” said Meloche.

DiCarlo said the issue of sorting recycling goods isn’t specific to the switchover to Windsor.

“This is something that’s come up over the year even with the prior collection service,” said DiCarlo. “Gradually over the years, the recycling program has become more and more stringent particularly especially due to the cost of sorting the material when it gets back to the recycling centre. That’s what a lot of people don’t realize. It’s nothing personal or anything but it was actually increasing the cost of recycling.”

To keep costs down, requests were initially made to sort but now recycling will not be picked up if goods are not sorted and left mixed in recycling boxes.

“That was the same with the previous provider as well,” said DiCarlo.

“That was simply a solid waste authority issue and wanting to keep our costs down with recycling.”

In addition to reminding people to have their recycling sorted properly and out at the road by 6

a.m. on their collection days, the EWSWA reminds people that blue boxes and red boxes may be picked up at different times by different trucks should their be a high volume in order to manage materials and meet schedules.

The Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority states “any delay in collection notifications will be pushed out via the Recycle Coach App, which can be download for free via the App Store and Google Play. Information can also be found on our Twitter.”

The EWSWA also states if a home’s recycling was not collected at the end of their scheduled collection day and if the homeowner has questions, the can call the authority the next day to give the collector the full day to collect.

“Cardboard shipping boxes from online purchases are recyclable in your Red box/cart. All plastic inserts, air pillows, peanuts, etc. must be removed prior to recycling and thrown in the garbage as these are currently not accepted as part of the recycling program in Essex-Windsor,” the EWSWA advises.

“Please remember that there are three EWSWA drop off depots that residents in Essex County can take advantage of to drop off items like: recyclables, garbage, scrap metal, electronics, white goods, yard waste, chemical waste, etc. Residents can visit www.ewswa. org for more information regarding fees and hours of operation.”

People can also contact the EWSWA at 1-800-563-3377 or by e-mail at ask@ewswa.org.

Special to the RTT The members of the corporation for Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc., aka Father Donato’s Shelter, state they are sincerely and gratefully thank all those who supported us by donating sale items and shopping at the plant and yard sale that was held on the Middle Side Road this past summer for the shelter.

With COVID-19 in the picture, the volunteers were not sure they could raise the money necessary to fulfill their commitment to the girls and children at our shelter for violated girls and their children in Bukavu DR Congo.

Determined to follow COVID-19 guidelines and meet the needs of the shelter at the same time, volunteers with the shelter started early with plants for a donation.

Because contacts and group size were limited, the yard sale started as a mini-sale and then grew to a very large yard sale as the COVID-19 rules changed.

This year, the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. states they were concerned about volunteer help especially since they were dealing with the public and many of the people who helped in previous years have valid and serious concerns. Fortunately, the shelter states they were gifted with some new reliable, amazing, energetic and creative help.

“Some of our help just came in, saw a need and volunteered to come back and help! God provides! It was a long, very warm summer but in the end we were successful. Many thanks to our many outstanding volunteers and supporters,” said volunteer Mary Beneteau. Our commitment to the shelter is ongoing. To fulfill this we need to continue to sell items online. We happily and thankfully accept donations of clean, quality usable items on an on-going basis.”

Please call Mary Beneteau at 519-736-6263 to arrange a drop off of donations. Also, if someone would like to help by selling items online please let her know.

“We appreciate and thank our current on-line sellers,” she said.

Larry Allen at 519-736-6731 is raising funds for our shelter by picking up and cashing in empty beer and wine bottles and cans. Please call him for pickup.

Again many thanks!

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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Newest “Little Free Library” has “Peanuts” theme

By Ron Giofu

If you see Snoopy and Woodstock while out and about in the Golfview subdivision, it just means you can also get a look at some free books as well.

The town’s latest “Little Free Library” has been erected at the Linwood Dr. home of Adrian and Ruth-Anne Iancop and it has a “Peanuts” theme. The famed cartoon characters Snoopy and Woodstock are part of the Little Free Library, where residents of the Golfview and Pointe West subdivisions along with other people are welcome to take a book or leave a book.

“It was my wife’s idea,” explained Adrian. “She was driving around the Roseland area of Windsor and she saw one. She thought ‘what a great idea’.”

Adrian pointed out that Ruth-Anne used to work at the Leddy Library at the University of Windsor and now that she is retired from that job, “she wanted to bless our neighbourhood with free books to help pass the time during COVID.” Adrian stated she saw this Snoopy-designed Library online and she asked our brother-in-law Pat to build it for them.

“She also went online and asked for donations of books from the public and the response was fantastic,” Adrian reported.

The couple also has boxes of books in a closet, so Ruth-Anne swaps out books weekly with new ones.

Plus, he estimates that 15-20 books are taken per week to enjoy.

“Once completed we painted it and anchored it in the ground and filled it with books for every age group,” Adrian stated, adding Ruth-Anne has also added a wooden box on the side that she keeps dog treats in for the neighbourhood dogs.

“A solar light has also been recently installed for all those late-night visitors to the Snoopy Library,” Adrian said.

With the COVID-19 pandemic still ongoing for the foreseeable future, Adrian believes it has filled a void in the area.

“It’s been great in the neighbourhood. The kids don’t have anything to do,” he said.

The “Peanuts” themed Little Free Library isn’t just for the children, however, as Adrian pointed out RuthAnne keeps it stocked with books for all age groups and ensures all books are “wholesome” and appropriate for the Little Free Library.

Adrian added she also has a pencil and sticky notes inside and she has received some very cute comments of appreciation from the neighbourhood kids. He said they saw a family walk down the street to the library in the rain with their umbrellas to enjoy the library and get some new books.

“How cute is that?” he asked.

Donations are accepted and people can leave them at the Iancop’s home at 306 Linwood, where the Little Free Library is stationed out front. Adrian stated they have gone out as far as Belle River to pick up books, with those being books from an area author.

“It’s not a lending library. It’s free,” said Adrian, of their Little Free Library. “We feel it is a real blessing for us to see people using it.”

They realize their Little Free Library is now one of several in Amherstburg, but they hope their “Snoopy Library” serves as inspiration to have even more erected around the community.

“Hopefully people do something like this in another neighbourhood,” said Adrian.

Adrian Iancop stands with the “Little Free Library” in front of his Linwood Dr. home. He and wife Ruth-Anne, the latter being a retired Leddy Library employee, recently installed the “Peanuts”-themed library in front of their home with the help of their brother-in-law.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Area students to keep learning virtually until at least Jan. 25

By RTT Staff

Area students will be learning virtually at least until Jan. 25, the province confirmed last week.

The Ontario government stated that due to COVID-19 cases rising at “an alarming rate,” that they worked with the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health and “other health professionals” to delay in-person learning until at least Jan. 25.

The province stated in a press release issued last Thursday that applies to 27 health units in southern Ontario.

“With the public health trends where they are across the province, our priority remains keeping students, teachers, school staff, and all Ontarians safe,” Premier Doug Ford said in the news release. “We have to get the numbers down and today’s measures will help us continue to stop the spread of this deadly virus.”

The Ontario government states that in response to increasing community transmission, in-person learning will be deferred to Jan. 25, in southern Ontario, which aligns with the planned return of in-person learning for secondary school students in these regions. Elementary students and secondary students in the seven Northern Ontario public health unit regions were scheduled to return to in-person learning Monday.

“I have and remain firmly committed to getting students back into class as soon as possible - there is nothing more important. However, the best medical and scientific experts have been clear: while schools have been safe places for kids, the sharp rise in community transmission puts that progress and Ontario families at risk,” said Minister of Education Stephen Lecce. “During this time, students will remain engaged in live teacher-led online learning with access to enhanced mental health and technology supports.”

In the nearly two weeks since Ontario was moved into a province-wide shutdown, the province states trends in key public health indicators have continued to worsen in both northern and southern Ontario.

“In the last two weeks, we have seen concerning trends at home and abroad, as well as increased community transmission during the holidays, indicating that it is not yet the time to begin easing public health and workplace safety measures,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

To support families during this extended school closure, child care centres, and home-based child care services will remain open. Ontario is also expanding eligibility for the Ministry of Education’s targeted emergency child care program for a broader number of frontline health and safety workers.

The Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) confirmed the news as well, stating he region’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Wajid Ahmed announced Jan. 7 that schools in this region should remain closed to students for a further two week period. His recommendation was supported with a provincial government announcement that in-school learning would be deferred for all students in Southern Ontario until Jan. 25.

According to a release put out by board spokesperson Scott Scantlebury, Dr. Ahmed said, during his briefing that he believes in-person learning is critical for young people, however given the recent data of weekly COVID-19 cases in the area, “we cannot jeopardize the safety of children.”

The on-line learning model will continue for both elementary and secondary students through the conclusion of the current provincial lockdown, scheduled until Jan. 23. Originally, GECDSB elementary students were to resume in-person learning Jan. 11.

The GECDSB states it will continue to offer in-school learning opportunities for students with complex, special needs in the elementary GAINS and secondary STEPS classes and transportation will be provided. Families will be contacted to determine their choice of learning model for the next two weeks.

The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) also acknowledged the announcement.

“The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board will be following the region’s Chief Medical Officer of Health’s recommendation to extend the period that schools will be closed for elementary students who are enrolled in in-person learning until Monday, Jan. 25,” said a statement posted to the board’s website. “This means that those students who have been learning online this week will continue to do so until Jan. 25. Secondary students who are enrolled in in-person learning are still scheduled to return to school on Monday, Jan. 25.

“We will continue to follow the same procedures we have been following this week.

“Students with special needs will still be able to attend school in person and our schools will remain open for those educators who wish to attend for the purposes of conducting online learning.

“We remain committed to providing our school communities with information as soon as it becomes available.”

The extension of virtual learning and the delay of returning to in-person appears to be in line with the wishes of teaching unions. The president of the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) made a request

last Wednesday, a day before the provincial announcement, to have all public health units in Ontario reconsider returning to in-person learning this week.

“Educators know that in-person learning provides the most effective and equitable learning environment, but unfortunately we are at the height of this pandemic. It makes no sense for the government to send students, teachers and education workers back to school while the province is locked for another two to three weeks,” said Sam Hammond. “Despite repeated calls for adequate safety measures, the government has refused to implement them in a misguided effort to save money, jeopardizing the health and safety of students, educators and their families.”

In a four-page letter to Ford from the Greater Essex Elementary Teachers Federation, its occasional teachers union, the OSSTF including the educational support workers and the occasional teachers, it demanded four actions from the provincial government to help keep teachers and students safe.

The letter – signed EFTO local president Mario Spagnuolo, Greater Essex County Occasional Teachers local president Sharon Ciebin, OSSTF District 9 president Erin Roy, OSSTF ESS District 9 president Kristen GarrettSpanswick and OSSTF Occasional Teachers District 9 president Christina Wanger, they outlined actions such as increased staffing so two-metre of social distancing can be maintained, more PPE, enhanced cleaning for classrooms being used during the closure period, the prioritization of vaccines to all education workers working during the closure period including mobile vaccination sites for teaches and educational workers, increased digital resources and technology for virtual schools for both educators and students, increased COVID-19 testing for students opting for the in-person model, professional development relevant to providing virtual instruction, provide childcare for all education workers working during the closure period and every available safety precaution for when schools do re-open for inperson learning.

“Your government must listen to public health and education experts and take every reasonable pre-caution to prevent COVID-19 transmission in our schools,” the letter states. “Stop ignoring the voices of teachers, occasional teachers, support staff, secretarial staff and other education professionals who care about the students we serve.”

The letter further called for the Ontario government to “properly fund our schools” with the unions further believing that the government “must take the actions outlined in this letter.”

Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – River Town Times – 11

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Windsor-Essex County Health Unit gives update on vaccine distribution Special to the RTT The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is providing an update to the public in relation to the COVID-19 vaccine.

The WECHU issued a press release Monday morning stating it “has received many questions from the community about the COVID-19 vaccine, especially when we can expect it to be distributed more widely to everyone locally. We understand the urgency, at a time when our case counts are very high, we have outbreaks across many sectors and we are in lockdown. We too, want to vaccinate everyone as quickly and safely as possible. We are working daily with the Ministry of Health regarding the priority groups for vaccination and the vaccine rollout.”

According to the WECHU, the current plan calls for the vaccines to be available to everyone who wants to be immunized in phase 3 of the Ontario vaccine distribution plan, which is three months away or sooner, depending on vaccine supply.

The health unit states “the provincial government’s three-phase vaccine distribution plan focuses first on vulnerable populations that are at greatest risk of COVID-19 and severe illness and those who care for them. The groups selected for vaccination in each phase are based on an ethical framework, best available data to identify priority populations, and the vaccine supply. Early doses of the vaccine in phase 1 will be available for residents, staff, essential caregivers (including family caregivers) and other employees who work in congregate living settings providing care for seniors as they are at higher risk of infection and serious illness from COVID-19; health care workers, including hospital employees, other staff who work or study in hospitals and other health care personnel; adults in First Nations, Métis and Inuit populations where infection can have disproportionate consequences, including

those living in remote or isolated areas where risk of transmission is high; and adult recipients of chronic home health care.

“Given the available supply of vaccines and the burden of disease at this time, the provincial direction and the local direction is to first vaccinate all residents, staff, and essential caregivers who work in long-term care homes and high-risk retirement homes,” the media release states. “Public health is working directly with long-term care homes and retirement homes to ensure the vaccine is administered as quickly and as safely as possible to residents, staff, and essential caregivers of these homes. The vaccine we have received to date is for this targeted population. We are not receiving daily supplies of the vaccine and it is not sitting in freezers going unused.”

The WECHU adds that preparation and planning for future priority groups is occurring at this time. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit states it will be working with all partners to ensure a smooth rollout of vaccines.

Phase 2 of the provincial vaccine distribution plan will occur when more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine become available to Ontario and to our health unit region, the health unit continues, stating, “this is expected to begin later this winter and vaccinations will likely be expanded to include additional congregate care settings (for example, shelters).”

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit states it is directly involved in the vaccine rollout and is aligned with direction from the Ministry of Health and the Ontario government.

“As more direction and information is received, we will continue to inform the community, as we’ve done throughout the pandemic, about the next phase of the

COVID-19 vaccination distribution plan for Windsor and Essex County,” the media release added. “We will be working with all our hospital and community partners to implement a local and robust mass vaccination plan that uses our collective resources efficiently and effectively, while at the same time ensuring that other vulnerable groups not targeted in phase 1 and 2 of the provincial vaccine rollout plan are not missed. This process must be evidence-based, using an ethical framework, and not arbitrary. Throughout the pandemic, we’ve repeatedly said that we want to have everyone cross the finish line together and that remains our goal.”

The WECHU adds it is asking the community for” a bit more patience,” saying “you have been amazing so far! We need you to continue to practice public health measures to help prevent further spread of COVID-19 in our community.”

Those measures include maintaining a two-metre distance from others; limiting your contacts to your household only; washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands; using a medical or non-medical mask (e.g, cloth) in public settings; covering mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow when you cough or sneeze; staying home and do not go to work or school if you are sick.

Virtual “Jingle Bell Run” held in support of CLEC Special to the RTT With COVID-19 restrictions in place and the safety of participants, supporters and volunteers a priority, Community Living Essex County rolled out their first ever virtual Jingle Bell Run event over the weekend of Dec. 4-7.

The event traditionally hosted by Ken Knapp Ford in Essex for the past 25 years, draws on average 300 to 400 participants from across the area in support of Community Living Essex County. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, organizers were able to pivot and introduce a virtual event that allowed people to participate at their own pace utilizing local parks, trails, neighborhoods or home treadmills.

The event was resounding success as 305 people brought family or social circles together, got festive, active and got their jingle on for a great cause.

The event saw people posting photos online of

themselves and families running and walking while raising pledges for Community Living Essex County.

“The event was made possible by the great support of the community and corporate partner, Ken Knapp Ford in Essex,” states Tony DeSantis, Manager of Community Relations and Resource Development with CLEC. DeSantis adds, “as an organization that supports over 700 people with an intellectual disability we are so grateful to have so many dedicated supporters from across Essex County.”

An announcement will be made early in the new year on the amount raised from the event.

Community Living Essex County supports roughly 700 people with an intellectual disability and their families across the county.

For more information or to make a donation to the not-for-profit organization, please visit www. communitylivingessex.org or 519-776-6483.

Even “Alvin” Santa of Amherstburg participated in the recent Jingle Bell Run in support of Community Living Essex County.

Submitted photo

12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 13, 2021

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Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Be aware of the impact words can have, Aries. You may think what you’re saying is innocuous, but it really can do harm without intent. Be conscious of what you’re saying.

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SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, what you expect to happen this week may turn out to be the opposite of what actually happens. Be prepared for any scenario to come your way.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Emotions may cloud your judgment, Capricorn. Try to look at a situation clearly so you can weigh-in in an impartial manner so you have no regrets.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Sometimes the best things that happen to you can occur in the most unlikely of places, Aquarius. Always keep your eyes open and ready for surprises.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t fret if you don’t think the same way as another group of people, Pisces. This week you will more fully develop your perspective.

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

ANSWERS ON PAGE 15

Richard Peddie was the guest speaker at the recent online Rotary Club meeting. Peddie spoke about having visions and values to not just Amherstburg Rotarians but to Rotarians from across District 6400. Screenshot

Rotary Club welcomes business owner, community builder to speak

By Ron Giofu The Rotary Club of Amherstburg hosted a local business owner and community builder and helped him spread his message to other clubs as well.

Richard Peddie, owner of the River Bookshop with wife Colleen and retired president/CEO of Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), addressed not only Amherstburg Rotarians via Zoom last Wednesday evening but Rotarians from all around District 6400 as well.

Peddie pointed out how having visions and values has shaped the foundation of his leadership approach and how he has led his life. He also noted he followed a dream of eventually running a basketball team, something that he achieved in 1996 when he was tabbed to run the Toronto Raptors.

“I’m a great believer in having a dream and I’ve run companies with visionary dreams,” said Peddie.

Peddie said the vision defines what a person wants to achieve and the values are the how it will be achieved.

“They need to be rock solid,” he said. “Don’t drift with the fashions of the day. It’s not a flavour of the month.”

Peddie added that a value isn’t a value “until you are prepared for it to cost you something. Until you are prepared to do that, it isn’t a value – it’s just a hobby.”

Visions and values was something Peddie stated he used during his business career, which stretched from Colgate, General Foods, SkyDome (now Rogers Centre), MLSE and others. He said it is also how the River Bookshop is being run as well, with the vision and core values being to add to the economic, cultural and social health of the town and to educate, inspire, engage and entertain.

Peddie also addressed the town itself, something people in the virtual audience voiced satisfaction with, as he questioned what the town’s vision and values are.

“What is the vision for Amherstburg? What does it aspire to be?” asked Peddie. “I’m not clear on what that is.”

While he believed Amherstburg is a “great town,” Peddie said he would encourage elected officials to clearly define what its visions are.

Peddie added he likes most council members as people, but wants to see more evidence-based decision making, more ambition to have Amherstburg be the best place to live and visit, have a improved desire to follow best practices, less focus on “tactical small issues,” and a greater respect for staff.

“No one likes taxes but great communities cost money,” he said. “You can’t cut your way to greatness. If Amherstburg wants to be a great community, then it has to invest in its greatness.”

Asked how he plans to compete with giants in the book industry, Peddie said he went into the book selling business with “my eyes wide open” and did so by buying a 135-year-old building and restoring it. He said great customer service and a great design will be how they will and are doing business, adding that events in their upstairs “Hole in the Wall” event space are other ways they serve their customers. He said upwards of 40 more speakers are already planned for and other events are in the works as well.

“It’s the total package of what we do,” said Peddie.

Peddie also pointed out he has purchased neighbouring buildings near the bookshop along Richmond St. and Ramsay St. with plans to remake the sites to have buildings there that look historic. While he wouldn’t say what specific retail outlets would go in there, Peddie said one will “be a lot of fun,” one will be “delicious” but is not a restaurant and the other will be more upscale. A parking lot on one of the sites will be converted into something else.

“Amherstburg has hollowed out its history and put up parking lots,” he believed.

Responding to a question on what three things Amherstburg could build upon, Peddie added natural environment was one. He endorsed the town’s purchase of the former Duffy’s Tavern & Motor Inn site (“Once you sell waterfront property, you’ll never get it back.”) and better promoting the town’s history is another. He said he plans on registering the building at 67 Richmond as a historic property.

“Amherstburg’s history is one of its key points of difference,” said Peddie.

Active transportation was another component that Amherstburg could build on, he believed, stating the new bike lanes on Alma St. are good additions and that if cycling and running could be done in a safer manner, “people could come down to shop, eat and be healthy.”

“If Amherstburg wants to be a great community, then it has to invest in its greatness."

Wednesday, January 13, 2021 – River Town Times – 15

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Town council receives update on water master plan

SUDOKU ANSWERS

Amherstburg town council has received an update to its water master plan.

Manager of engineering Todd Hewitt stated in a report to council that the town retained Stantec Consulting in 2019 to update the water master plan.

The plan goes over the entire water system, which includes not just all of Amherstburg but a portion of the far southern part of LaSalle and a portion of Essex, the latter being in the McGregor and Paquette Corners areas.

“This included an update of the town’s pipe system hydraulic water model with updated flow and pressure data,” Hewitt said in his report.

“The Master Plan was last updated in 2010 as part of the construction of the new water tower. The Consultant completed the update of the Master Plan as part of a Schedule B Municipal Environmental Assessment (EA). This process includes identifying potential problems and opportunities to address these issues. This includes alternative solutions to future servicing needs as well as current critical and capacity constraints.”

Hewitt added: “The EA process has a requirement for public consultation, including reaching directly to major stakeholders (i.e. developers, federal and provincial agencies) as well as Indigenous Communities.”

Under normal circumstances, the town would hold a public information centre, Hewitt noted, but due to restrictions around the COVID-19 pandemic, public consultations were held through the town’s “Talk the Burg” website and it was advertised in the local media.

Among the recommendations coming out of the report were upsizing 640m of 50mm diameter watermain to 300mm along 2nd Concession S, upsizing 580m of 50mm diameter watermain to 300mm along Lowes Side Road and constructing 730m of 300mm diameter watermain along Lowes Side Road, all of which are part of the development of the “southeast quadrant” of town.

Those recommendations are listed under the “redundancy and future growth” category as are other proposed projects such as the upsizing 1,200m of 150mm diameter watermain to 300 mm along Front Road North, construction 575m of 300mm diameter watermain from the intersection of Dalhousie St. and Park St. to Boblo (Bois Blanc) Island to twin the existing single feed, and construction of 70m of

600mm diameter watermain from the water treatment plan as a secondary discharge pipe. Engineering for the latter project is included in 2021 budget, Hewitt noted.

Other recommendations were included in the 2020 master plan with respect to improving flow and pressure in the north-eastern portion of our water service area, Hewitt noted. That includes the construction of 8,450m of 400mm diameter watermain along Texas Road (between Concession 3 North of Essex and Walker Road) plus an additional 3,100m of 300mm diameter watermain north along Walker Road, construct 7,100m of 300mm diameter watermain along South Side Road (between Concession 6 South and Smith Side Road) and north along Smith Side Road to Alma St., plus an additional 6,000m of 300mm diameter watermain north along Walker Rd-ReAmherstburg town council received an update on the water master plan at a recent meeting. place the existing small diameter waThe plan covers all users of the town’s water system, which includes not only all of Amherstburg termain with 11,400m of 300mm diambut sections of Essex and LaSalle as well. Screenshot eter watermain along Pike Road (from velopment Charge Studies, develop- Hewitt said Essex residents on the Concession 6 South) and north along ment agreements (under the Town’s Amherstburg system pay the same Walker Road.

Local Servicing Policy) and or budgets rates as Amherstburg users.

“These projects are very large scale.

“The ability to improve their seras appropriate.”

The costs are very high. These are projDeputy Mayor Leo Meloche ques- vice would be up to the council of the ect that we would like to complete as tioned the projects on the eastern por- Town of Amherstburg to decide,” said funds would allow or at council’s distion of town and wondered why the Hewitt. cretion,” said Hewitt.

Hewitt said the Essex residents town would go down Texas Road conThe funding required for projects sidering a portion of that is closed near have service but the options presented closer to the urban portion of AmherWalker Road. Hewitt said that route would improve the service in that area stburg sits at an estimated $2.7 million is closer to the water tower and main to better match service in other areas. while projects that would be on the “These are decisions are of council’s feed. eastern portion of town and also help “That’s the simplest way of getting whether they want to spend the monimprove flow to Essex sits in the estiey,” he said, adding he did not know if there,” said Hewitt. mated $18 million range.

Director of corporate services Cheryl there are other options in which users In his written report, Hewitt stated: Horrobin noted “if the work is related in the Essex areas could be charged.

“As noted in section 7.2 of the Master to growth in the town, the town can Hewitt said it is up to council where Plan, ‘The timing of the growth-related apply eligible development charges to they want to spend their money for upgrades is dependent on the develthe funding of the works.” Horrobin improvements. opment of the approved and pending Mayor Aldo DiCarlo acknowledged said the study should be updated evapproval developments. As develop$18 million is “a scary number” but ery five years. ment proceeds, the Town of AmherCouncillor Michael Prue said he had it confirmed they are recommenstburg is recommended to review the wished he had the information before dations and not requirements. Hewitt services proposed for these areas. The budget deliberations and also won- said the residents that would be imtiming of upgrades proposed for relidered the timing of the second Boblo pacted “have adequate flow and presability and redundancy is dependent water line. He was told two to three sure” and the $18 million are recomon the Town’s decision to improve the years at least as it takes time to deal mendations to improve a service they reliability and redundancy of service with the Department of Fisheries and already have. DiCarlo said nothing is provided to the residents of Boblo Isgoing to proceed in that area “without Oceans and other agencies. land and to the network as a whole.

Prue brought up the $18 million, not- council seeing it again.”

The timing of the Essex improvement ing “it’s a huge amount alternative is dependent on the Town of money to pump water of Amherstburg’s decision to improve to another municipalthe level of service to the elevated arity,” and questioned how eas of the water distribution system.’ it would be recouped.

The infrastructure investments recommended in the Master SCRAMBLE ANSWER Plan will be included in future De-

SUDOKU ANSWERS

By Ron Giofu

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