River Town Times - July 7, 2021

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Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Park plans to be unveiled today

By Ron Giofu

The future of Jack Purdie Park and H. Murray Smith Centennial Park may become a bit clearer starting tonight.

The Town of Amherstburg is hosting a virtual open house tonight (July 7) at 6 p.m. where a total of nine concepts for the redevelopment of the two parks will be presented. Heidi Baillargeon, the town’s director of community and protective services, noted there are five proposals for Centennial Park and four for Jack Purdie Park that will be presented to the public.

“We’ll be unveiling the conceptual plans we’ve developed and look to the community for input,” she said.

According to Baillargeon, the landscape architectural consultants Bezaire and Associates tried to incorporate amenities that the community asked for into the designs “This will be the first time the public has seen any of the drawings,” she said.

For those who are not able to go online or for those who weren’t aware of the meeting until after the fact, Baillargeon pledged there will still be opportunities for public input.

“We’ll have a survey that will be available online,” she stated.

Continued on Page 2

Music in the Park returns Music in the Park made its return to King’s Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg last weekend with Mike Karloff and Mike Palazzolo performing Sunday. Live music will be at the gazebo weekends starting at 4 p.m.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 7, 2021

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Park plans to be unveiled today

A display was set up at Malden Central Public School to honour this year’s graduates. A virtual graduation ceremony was posted online June 24 with a drive-thru visit graduation being held at the school June 23. Submitted photo

Malden Central Public School celebrates the Class of 2021

By Ron Giofu

The staff at Malden Central Public School have bid a fond farewell to the Class of 2021.

The school held a pair of graduation events in late June.

Principal Joe Oldridge said Malden Central Public School “celebrated our graduation with a wonderful virtual ceremony posted on Tuesday, June 22. On Wednesday, June 23 we welcomed our graduates back to the school for a drive thru visit and celebration.”

Oldridge thanked the parent council who he stated provided all of this year’s graduates with hoodies. The parents of this year’s graduating class were also thanked, with Oldridge stating they assisted in organizing celebra-

tions for the graduates.

“This year’s graduates demonstrated great leadership all year under challenging circumstances,” said Oldridge.

Oldridge stated the defining moment for this group of students in his eyes was when this group of Grade 8’s broke off pieces of snow from their section of the school yard after a large storm and delivered it to the Grade 4 area where the pieces were used to make snow forts.

“This was a great snapshot of the regular kindness and thoughtfulness that our older students show here at Malden,” stated Oldridge. “We wish all of our graduates the best in secondary school and thank Mr. Balkwill and Mr. Macdonald for their work with these students and in making our graduation a good as it could be.”

Book Review

Mac Undercover (Mac B. Kid Spy #1)

By Mac Barnett Middle Grade Fiction

A funny, exciting, quick paced book about Mac B. who just happens to be a spy. When the Queen of England calls to enlist his services to find some stolen royal jewels, Mac springs into action. From England to France to KBG headquarters in Russia - the case takes Mac everywhere and he must rely on his smarts and his wits to get himself home and the mystery solved. Chock full of actual historical facts, random trivia and lots of action, the story of Mac’s world travels Is hilarious, interesting and sure to hook readers of any age.

The best part? When you’re done this one there are five more in the series!

Submitted by Lori Wightman, of River Bookshop, Amherstburg

Continued from Page 1 Baillargeon added there will be surveys available at town hall for those who wish to provide their thoughts and feedback but don’t have internet access.

The initial public feedback period will be about one month, she said. Baillargeon said feedback from the general public will be incorporated into the designs and a second public meeting will be held at a yet-to-be determined date later this summer.

From there, Baillargeon said a recommendation will be going to town council and council will make a decision on how to proceed. That would likely occur in late summer or in the fall.

While the options that will be presented Wednesday night were not shared beforehand, Baillargeon said all of them will have a parkland component.

“They are absolutely going to be parks,” she said.

Two proposals for each park will be all parkland but Baillargeon noted the other concepts all have an affordable housing component.

“People will see the connectivity of how that works,” she said. “There’s so much space. Even if you put in affordable housing, you are still going to have parkland.”

Baillargeon maintained that if options that are eventually chosen for Jack Purdie Park and H. Murray Smith Centennial Park end up containing affordable housing, that could lead to quicker development of the parkland. She said the money gained by having a portion of the parks developed with housing could be turned around and put back into the parks.

“It’s all about the community, priorities and funding,” said Baillargeon.

Gerry and Paul Bezaire from Bezaire and Associates will also be on hand at Wednesday night’s open house, she added. Baillargeon believes the public will be “pleasantly surprised” by the options that will be presented.

To view the meeting, people can visit www.amherstburg.ca/livestream. Baillargeon also stated people can provide input through the town’s “Talk the Burg” website at www.talktheburg.ca with the Zoom link to ask questions also provided through the latter website.

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

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New youth organization being founded for youth of all backgrounds in Windsor-Essex County

By Ron Giofu

A new youth organization is being founded for all youth in Windsor-Essex County regardless of ethnicity or background.

Amherstburg resident Les Holmes has teamed with Ed Armstrong, the first Black staff sergeant in the history of the Windsor Police Service, to found Sierra 42. The new youth organization’s slogan is “hard work has no colour” and they are selling T-shirts with that slogan on them as one way to raise funds for the group.

Armstrong explained that when he got his historic promotion last summer, he was originally apprehensive about going public with it. That was during a time of civil unrest due to the death of George Floyd in Minnesota and reports of women and minorities being underrepresented in business.

Not wanting to have his promotion be seen on the basis of the colour of his skin, Armstrong ultimately decided to speak on it to get his own message across.

“Hard work has no colour,” he emphasized. “It should be recognized and rewarded. Hard work is hard work.”

Armstrong decided to take things a step further and wanted to make positive changes in the world.

Les Holmes (left) and Ed Armstrong have founded a new youth organization known as Sierra 42. They envision working with all youth “What can we do to make effective change happen?” regardless of ethnic background and bringing everyone together. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu he asked. partners, and want to work with other organizations in various ways.

Believing that kids don’t have biases and prejudices “We welcome support from anyone,” said Holmes. “It’s about bringing people and that it trickles down from adults, Armstrong said working with youth was together.” appealing and started to work with Holmes on the new concept. He hopes their Both Armstrong and Holmes have been working long hours on the project in messaging will spread to adults. addition to their day jobs and have about 20-30 volunteers they work with. They “If they see young people coming together and saying that it doesn’t matter what believe the youth organization will rolled out completely next year. we look like, judge us for who we are, maybe it will make changes with adults,” he “It’s about all races,” said Holmes. “It’s about everyone. It’s about all genders.” said. “I talked to Les and he has the same vision I do.”

For more information about Sierra 42, visit www.sierra42.com or e-mail info@ sierra42.com. People can also call 519-982-3152.

“If you sit down and listen, everyone has a similar story."

Holmes and Armstrong emphasized their messaging isn’t about race, but getting recognized for hard work and bringing people together. They said they have contacted youth groups representing various ethnicities and backgrounds in the area and hope to bring people together.

“If you talk to different ethnic groups, you hear they all have the same struggles,” he said. “If you sit down and listen, everyone has a similar story.”

Armstrong and Holmes say Sierra 42 is looking to “bridge gaps” and work with youth in various ways. They want to work with students with academic, athletic, social and arts and crafts backgrounds. The group is named for Armstrong’s call sign with the police with 42 having a special meaning due to it also being baseball legend Jackie Robinson’s uniform number.

“We want to build this from the bottom up and hear from the youth and their ideas on what the organization should have,” said Armstrong.

Sierra 42 is not officially affiliated with Windsor police, although the police service does support the initiative. The youth organization also seeks to mend fences between youth and police and bring people together.

Holmes said he works with police officers in his employment and sees the work that happens.

“I see all the good and I see what police officers do,” said Holmes. “I see the effort they put in. I see the positive psychology every single day.”

The organization has many other goals, including to engage youth in music contests, empower youth to come together to better society and to allow youth to achieve their goals. They have been explaining their organization to community

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

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A few thoughts for this week

Tonight is the first open house to listen to the future of both H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and Jack Purdie Park.

I stand behind my position to keep as much parkland as possible, a position I took in a column I wrote in April.

I wrote that week of keeping Russell Renaud Hill.

I spoke of using the site of the current track for tennis and pickleball courts, beach volleyball courts, basketball courts and/or the permanent home of the skateboard park, assuming some sort of track Ron Giofu is eventually build next to the new high school.

I pointed out back in April that I am not against putting amenities at the Libro Centre and am not opposing the Libro Centre Master Plan. In fact, this plan has yet to receive overall approval from town council. However, I continue to believe keeping some recreational amenities and green space at Centennial Park and adding some to Jack Purdie Park benefits not only the townspeople, but the current and future students of the high school as well. There is room to grow should the school eventually need to expand.

The virtual open house, which can be viewed at www.amherstburg.ca/ livestream, starts at 6 p.m. I’ll be curious, as will many in Amherstburg, to see what the consultants have come up with. There is also a Zoom link available on the posts for the meeting on the town’s social media channels in case people want to submit questions.

While a second open house is scheduled for the fall, I respectfully suggest adding even a third one. Not everyone has internet access and while I know there will be surveys people can fill out, waiting to see if provincial COVID-19 restrictions will allow for in-person open houses will be beneficial. The public will be able to ask questions directly to the people they want answers from and provide the input they wish to provide without having to worry about their internet connection and it will also give the town a better cross-section of people providing feedback.

Unless there’s a reason that I’ve missed or have forgotten about, I don’t see why a final decision can’t wait until spring 2022 instead of fall 2021.

JUST A THOUGHT

** I’m going to pick a weird time to brag about my favourite NHL hockey team, but I can’t recall the last time in 30-plus Celsius day in July I’ve watched my Montreal Canadiens play.

Why is this a weird time?

Well, after an 11-2 run which saw them finish off Toronto, Winnipeg and Vegas, they didn’t exactly light the world on fire in the first three games of the Stanley Cup Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning. I’m happy they found a way to win Game 4 in overtime and Game 5 is tonight (Wednesday) back in Tampa so hopefully they can find a way to extend the series once again.

Once I’m done with my work-related duties, I shall be tuning in to find out. ** I am sure I am not the only one glad to see things slowly returning to normal. I hope I don’t jinx anything by writing this, but having things opening up once again is nice. I have lost track of how many screenshots I’ve taken in the last year-and-ahalf, so it’s nice to be able to use my camera a bit more often.

While there are advantages of watching meetings virtually (including council members and school board trustees being unable to hear me when I swear at them), other events including sports are slowly starting to come back, which is nice.

I’m not a huge fan of the heat, but I’ll even learn to like being out in it rather than sitting in front of a computer screen covering a virtual event. I know we’re not done with the latter, but it will be a definite positive when organizations can hold their events and fundraisers in the traditional manner.

The Park House Museum is doing a virtual education program known as “The History Detective.”

People can register and, for a $35 subscription, learn about local history and figure out local historical figures are by going through virtual “boxes.” Special to the RTT

Park House Museum giving people opportunity to become a “history detective”

By Ron Giofu A virtual education program at one of Amherstburg’s museums is allowing the public the opportunity to become a “history detective.”

The Park House Museum is giving people the opportunity to get acquainted with local history in its new virtual education program. Curator Stephanie Pouget-Papak said there are ten artifact boxes people can go through with a chance to figure out and learn who the people being profiled are.

The boxes contain videos, photos, activities and other information so that people can learn about Amherstburg figures from the past 250 years.

“As you go through those, you will discover who the person is,” she said.

Pouget-Papak stated the museum can’t offer tours right now due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic but this is a way to bring their artifacts to the public in a safe manner.

“It’s one way to get programming to the public during COVID,” she said.

While this program launches during the pandemic, the idea for it originated a few years ago.

“I had been thinking about the base of the program for about three years,” she said. “This year the museum received a grant, which has allowed us to purchase the necessary equipment and programming to digitize our archival collection. This technology paired with the shut-down gave us ample time to choose which artefacts would be featured in each box, write narratives, and curate the boxes.”

The hope is that people go through every virtual box consecutively as everyone profiled is interconnected in some way, noting “it’s a nice variety of people” profiled.

She said the Park House Museum is trying to promote having fun, learning about history and being a good person.

History is more than just learning places and dates, Pouget-Papak added, as the virtual education project allows people to become immersed in history and have fun with it.

While creating the virtual “history detective project,” she sought the feedback of some teachers. One wasn’t keen on history going in but discovered a genuine interest through the project.

“When you get feedback like that, it’s good to hear,” she said.

People have to subscribe and pay $35 for all ten boxes and can do so by going to the museum’s website at www.parkhousemuseum.com and clicking on the “Online Programs” tab. Pouget-Papak said anyone who purchases a subscription until July 16 will receive a complementary membership for the rest of the year.

The museum is located at 214 Dalhousie St. and its gift shop re-opened June 28.

Pouget-Papak stated people can also purchase a subscription to the virtual education program if they stop by starting that date.

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

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Youth aged 12-17 eligible to book second dose vaccine appointment

By RTT Staff The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is now allowing youth aged 12-17 to book their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

The health unit stated as of 8 a.m.

Saturday, July 3, Windsor and Essex County youth 12 to 17 years of age and older were made eligible to book their second dose Pfizer BioNTech vaccine at a mass vaccination clinic, local pharmacy, or healthcare provider office that is administering vaccines.

Youth will have to have received their first dose of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine on or before June 10, at least 28 days prior to booking their second dose appointment, WECHU states.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit states that those eligible to book an appointment do not need to receive the second vaccine in the same location as the first. WECHU adds it encourages all eligible youth who want to attend a mass vaccination clinic to book online through the online booking system or by calling the vaccination booking call centre at 226773-2200 to make an appointment.

Appointments are still required for first and second COVID-19 vaccine doses at all of the mass vaccination clinics, participating pharmacies, and participating healthcare providers.

When a person attends their booked appointment, ID must be provided.

The public is asked to please bring their health cards or other identification that shows who the person is and where they live.

Examples of acceptable ID include: •Driver’s license •Health card •Passport •Student card •Other forms of ID such as registered mail, work ID, or pay stub “As the province enters Step Two of

our Roadmap, all eligible Ontarians have the opportunity for a two-dose summer,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health in a separate news release. “Vaccines are the best defence against COVID-19 and variants, and I encourage everyone to get their first and second shots as soon as possible.”

“Expanding the eligibility for accelerated second doses to include youth aged 12 to 17 is another positive step in the rollout of vaccines across Ontario,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. “With the continued support of our public health partners, we are on track to significantly increase the number of Ontarians who will be fully immunized this summer, helping to protect themselves and their community.”

WECHU continues to ask the public to please continue to practice public health measures to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the community. Those measures include maintaining a two-metre distance from others; limiting contacts to members of your household only; washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often; avoid touching 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; and staying home and do not go to work or school if you are sick.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccine booking and eligibility, please visit http://www.wevax. ca. For comprehensive information about COVID-19 vaccines including facts, myths, FAQs, vaccination statistics, and more, please visit wechu.org.

You can also subscribe to receive email updates from the Windsor Essex County Health Unit about COVID-19 vaccines.

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PPC nominates Beth Charron as its candidate for the next federal election

By Ron Giofu The People’s Party of Canada (PPC) has nominated its candidate in the riding of Essex for the next federal election.

The PPC has nominated Beth Charron as its candidate. The nomination was made official June 6 with Charron describing herself as “a proud mother of three” who is also an Essex County business owner.

“I own an insurance agency,” she stated.

Charron stated her candidacy began at the last federal election when she had difficulty figuring out who to vote for.

Beth Charron will represent the People’s Party of Canada (PPC) in the next federal During the last election campaign, Charron stated that she had a problem deter- election. Also in the race thus far are Conmining which candidate and what party servative Chris Lewis, the incumbent Essex MP, and NDP candidate Tracey Ramsey, the she wanted to vote for as a resident and former MP. Submitted photo a business owner. That led to her to start evaluating party platforms and it led to eventually aligning with the PPC and its platform.

Traits she believes she has are “my relentless passion, admiration and care for Canada and our citizens is as wide as our country’s land mass.” She said she learned more about leader Maxime Bernier and wanted to become involved and eventually became the candidate the more she learned about him.

“I put my name in and got selected,” she said.

Charron said immigration is a big plank of the PPC platform.

“My grandparents immigrated to Canada from Romania, Ireland and Poland because they wanted a better life in a country that offered freedom and opportunities to those who worked hard,” she said. “I share those same desires and am deeply committed to family, freedom and faith.”

Charron said the PPC is not opposed to immigration but believes Canada has to look at who is approved for citizenship.

“Immigration should benefit Canada and benefit Canadians,” she said.

More work has to be done to “clean up” the economic and tax systems and clear up any “grey area” as it pertains to who is responsible for what relating to health care. She believes more onus should be placed on the provinces.

The PPC gets a bad label and not enough media coverage, she believes, and calls the PPC the “party of the people” “We get pigeonholed a lot,” she claimed.

“We are very excited to have Beth Charron as our PPC candidate for Essex County. Beth is an authentic Canadian and an excellent representative. She is a much-needed breath of fresh air to Windsor-Essex,” said Heather Carpenter, CEO of the Windsor-Essex regional PPC Association. “Her team is excited to start campaigning to spread the People’s Party of Canada’s message of individual freedom, fairness, personal responsibility, and respect.”

Charron is the third candidate thus far to officially enter the race in the Essex riding for the 44th general election. Incumbent Chris Lewis of the Conservative Party is in the race as is former Member of Parliament Tracey Ramsey, with the latter representing the New Democratic Party.

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

John Willard Spellman, PH.D., F.R.A.S. 1934- 2021

Emeritus Professor John W. Spellman died on June 25 in Ontario, Canada. He was born in Tewksbury, MA. A highly accomplished scholar, he was a Fellow of The Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland (RAS), for scholarship relating to Asian culture and society of the highest level. He retired as Head of the Department of Asian Studies, University of Windsor, Ontario, Canada in 2000.

Dr. Spellman is considered one of the world’s foremost scholars on Asian Studies and a cultural expert on the political history of India.

Spellman studied the history and civilization of India at the Sorbonne, University of Oxford, and the University of London, School of Oriental and African Studies under Arthur Llewellyn Basham, a noted historian, Indologist and author, where he received both his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees.

Praised for his “remarkably original and penetrating mind,” his outspoken and dogmatic nature, affectionate sense of humor, charm and dedication to students, Spellman spoke three Indian languages, lectured world-wide and authored books and dozens of articles on ancient India, its people, politics, and culture.

He loved independence and freedom, and was an ardent fighter for human rights, social justice and environmental protection. He treasured kindness, scholarship, debate, the pursuit of excellence, gardening, and his students, friends, family and academic colleagues across the world.

Spellman grew up in the Boston area, and attended Oliver Ames High School in Easton, serving as Class Secretary, and was active in Debate Club, Student Senate and government affairs. Under the watchful eye of Louise A. Gilligan of Ashburnham, Massachusetts, who he met at 16, he attended Northeastern University in Boston with intentions to become an attorney. While there, he met Dr. Elmer H. Cutts, Professor of History and Government, and Chairman of the Department, who had a profound influence on him. Dr. Cutts ignited a spark in Spellman in Indology and helped him earn a Ford Foundation scholarship for Asian Studies. Professor Cutts wrote to an esteemed colleague, Professor Arthur Llewellyn Basham (1914-1986) at the University of London’s School of Oriental and African Studies, requesting he supervise John Spellman for his master’s degree.

In 1956, Spellman studied at the School of Oriental and African Studies, at the University of London. In 1961, Dr. Spellman was hired as History Professor at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut. He married Margaret McGregor Thomson (19382016). The two met while he was a student in London, when he needed a typist to prepare his manuscripts. Later that year Spellman attended the University of Chicago to study Tamil and other South Indian languages. From 1962 to 1964, Spellman was Visiting Lecturer in Indian Politics, University of Kerala, India. Both of his children, Suzanne Bharati (1963) and John Gilligan (1964) were born at the Salvation Army’s Catherine Booth Hospital, Nagercoil, Trivandrum.

By 1964, Spellman’s reputation as an important scholar in the field of Ancient Indian history was firmly established through his book, Political Theory of Ancient India; A Study of Kingship from the earliest times to circa A.D. 300, published by Oxford University Press.

This original work still serves of great value to students of the history of political thought and government throughout the world.

While in India, Spellman collected and translated village fables that he read to his children. In 1967, he published The Beautiful Blue Jay and Other Tales of India, with illustrator Jerry Pinkney and Little Brown (Boston). This book was published in many languages and heralded as one of the most important children’s books on India.

In 1967, Dr. Spellman was hired as assistant professor of History at the University of Washington in Seattle. He taught Asian Studies at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, was elected to the Board of Directors for the American Civil Liberties Union, and trained Peace Corps volunteers for programs in India.

In 1967, he was recruited by Dr. J. F. Leddy, president of the University of Windsor, to head and create the Asian Studies Department. Dr. Leddy became a life-long friend and ardent supporter. Spellman spent the next 33 years there, teaching students and creating a strong academic team that included beloved Professor Dr. Mahesh Mehta (1969-1999) and his wife Vibhutiben and Professor Dr. Kalyan Kumar Sarkar (1970-1997) and his wife Juthika.

Professor Spellman served as president of the Institute for Asian Cultures from 1975-2000. In 1979, he married Victoria Lewis. They divorced in 1981. Spellman founded the Indian Cultural Development Centre which was funded by the Ford Foundation and the Government of India, where he worked with over a million people in 400 villages in three South Indian states (Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka) to help each village become self-sufficient through their own indigenous resources.

In the 1980’s, Dr. John Spellman served as consultant and an expert witness on Sikhism to the human-rights commissions of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario, as a consultant to the Canadian Ministry of Justice on issues relating to Sikhism, and gave expert testimony for several high-profile court cases (School Boards, Canada 3000 Airlines, American Airlines, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, etc.) in North America. Dr. Spellman was presented the Sikh American Heritage Award 1986 by the Sikh Council on Religion & Education (SCORE) at a ceremony on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. In 1986, Spellman served as a Visiting Scholar for the Human Rights Program at Harvard Law School, after its founder, Henry J. Steiner, visited him in India. This was a career highlight for Dr. Spellman, and he treasured his time with the Steiner’s, beloved friend Holly Bull and his Harvard colleagues.

In the 1990’s and 2000’s, He served as a consultant to the Immigration and Refugee Documentation Centre, Ottawa, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal, Ontario Human Rights Commission, the Canadian Immigration and Refugee Board and Amnesty International.

He served as director of development projects and consultant to Asia for Canadian University Service Overseas, an international development organization that works to end poverty and inequality.

All his life, Spellman enjoyed horticulture, organic gardening and being a farmer. Over the last twenty years, Spellman became a fierce environmentalist, working to preserve Carolinian forests, wetlands, plants and wildlife in his Essex County, Ontario community. He took up the Friends of the Marshfield Woods case, and the Big Creek case. In 2013, Spellman was awarded the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal for his human rights, civil liberties, and volunteer work.

John Spellman says he never meant to be controversial. He just always believed it is necessary to speak up and fight for justice.

Dr. Spellman is survived by his children, Suzanne Bharati Spellman Hendery and Daryl Hendery of Reno, NV; John Gilligan Spellman of San Francisco, CA; and grandson Brian Andrew Hendery of Vancouver.

Dr. Spellman was laid to rest at St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Amherstburg, Ontario.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Society of St. Vincent’s De Paul, The University of Windsor-Lucky Star Program or Windsor Regional Hospital. The family wishes to thank Dr. David & Patricia Coates, Lily & Rick Meloche, Ingrid White, Diane & Paul Pouget, Sharon Coleman, Sanya Ladaphongpattana & Gift, Tony Grassi, Brian & Debbie Gibb, Ondrej Ozvat and family, Ed Foucher, Stephanie of C.O.A.S.T team, and the 7E Windsor Regional team; Dr. Phillip Trembley, Mary Beth, Greg, Amanda and Jessie, for their friendship and support..

You may send online condolences to www.geraldasmith.ca

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Town council approves stormwater proposal

By Ron Giofu Amherstburg town council has moved a subdivision in McGregor along, but hasn’t forgotten about trails and sidewalks in the hamlet either.

Town council supported a proposed conceptual plan to locate a stormwater management pond on what is now Canard Estates Park as part of the developer’s draft plan of subdivision. They also approved conveyance of lands to the Valente Group in exchange for cash in lieu of parkland dedication at the current market value appraisal and that the funds be deposited in the parkland dedication reserve fund.

The developer has proposed naturalizing the stormwater pond with an “active transportation multi-use trail However, members of town council still want a sidewalk in that area, particularly along Middle Side Road, and also voiced more concerns with parkland access.

Councillor Michael Prue wanted to know if the section of parkland being conveyed within the Canard Valley Estates subdivision could be reduced in size so that a small park could still be in the area for younger children.

“It seems to me that the distance from this new Canard Valley Estate (subdivision) to Co-An Park is at an absolute minimum 600 metres,” said Prue. “It appears to me that it’s more likely longer than that.”

Prue said it may be prohibitive from children to get to Co-An Park from there.

Older children may be able to make it on a bicycle, he believed, but it could be dangerous.

“I’m trying to think of the 69 new homeowners. This is designed for families and there’s no park,” he said. “It would seem to me to be a very small exercise for us to take instead of 2.45 acres to take 2.25 acres and to leave 0.2 acres, which is about half of a house, to leave some sort of small facility.”

Director of community and protective services Heidi Baillargeon said the active transportation route the developer wants to put in along Middle Side Road would provide passage for residents. She said the stormwater management pond needs a certain length and depth and to put in a small park would mean the park would have to be fenced. She did not recommend a park in that area close to the water.

Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche said he liked the proposal but one issue he didn’t like, the latter being the money going to parkland reserve.

“Co-An Park, as I’ve been arguing for some time now, has a mere mention in the parks master plan,” said Meloche. “It’s hardly recognized as a park owned by Amherstburg. There lies my concern. We have this great development, we have this great park but yet we’re going to take this money and put it into parkland reserve.”

Co-An Park “struggles” to get funding every year to operate, said Meloche. He said a lot of enhancements need to be done there.

“I still would like to see a sidewalk,” he continued. “The developer’s proposed pathway is still west of Canard Valley Estates. It doesn’t deal with the east (portion) going towards Walker Road.”

Meloche said there are still pedestrian concerns along Middle Side Road and didn’t believe a small parkette was the answer.

“We have a park. Let’s take the money and put it to good use for people to use the park we have,” said Meloche.

The pond, with the vegetation that is proposed around it, will “be its’ own attraction,” the deputy mayor added.

CAO John Miceli said the report was about conveying the land to facilitate the development. He said the developer’s proposal is that a trail system be added in exchange for the parkland.

He said the developer would be able to install the necessary infrastructure to allow the subdivision to proceed and the town would be in compliance with its parks master plan and parkland dedication fee.

“The next step would October 19, 1949 – July 2, 2021 be what does council wish to do with the five Barb Nadeau Passed away peacefully at per cent?” Miceli added. home with her loving husband Bert and “The developer has indisister Shirley by her side, later surrounded by her loving cated they are willing to family. Barb climbed the stairway to heaven to be with her fur install a trail system. That babies Koko and Bella. She is now reunited with her mom would be the subject of a and dad, and brothers and sisters. future report.”

Special thank you to nurse Tanya, PSWs (Paramed) Sarah, Miceli said the hope Terri, and Rochelle for their compassion and care for Barb. is the report could come Bert would like to extend special thank you for all family and back in August, in refriends that took the time to visit, cook, send gifts, and care sponse to a question from for us at this time.

Councillor Pat Simone.

At Barb’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral Councillor Don McArservice and cremation has taken place. In kindness, memorial thur said one of the bigdonations made to the Canadian Cancer Society would be gest requests of people in appreciated. that area is connectivity to You may leave your condolences online at trails and other parts of www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca McGregor.

Continued on page 7

Barb Nadeau (Bellefleur)

Wednesday, July 7, 2021 – River Town Times – 7

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Town council approves stormwater proposal

Continued from Page 6 “I don’t think we can piecemeal (a sidewalk system) either. One little trail going to the east or to the west doesn’t solve the problem that exists in this whole corridor between Walker Road and Howard Ave,” he said. “This whole municipality needs to solve that problem. If the developer can do their part, that’s great, but I think we need to build a critical mass, we need to lobby the County of Essex. It’s a county road.”

McArthur also wanted to know the approximate value of the parkland being conveyed.

“What kind of money are we talking about here for 2.45 acres that is rectangular? It’s not odd-shaped,” said McArthur.

Miceli said it is already encumbered by an existing stormwater management solution that is underneath.

“The reality is the value will be diminished because of that,” the CAO stated.

“You just can’t convert that property into residential building lots, per se, if that’s what you were thinking.”

Miceli said they have to get an appraisal but their best guess is $100,000.

McArthur said that doesn’t go very far when it comes to constructing trails.

McArthur later questioned if Mayor Aldo DiCarlo and Meloche were championing the issue at Essex County council.

“I can tell you every municipality brings up issues with expanding the CWATS corridor in the region and the answer we always get is it’s done on a piece-by-piece basis and if (town) council wants us to do that again, we can do that,” said DiCarlo.

DiCarlo added if connections are built, it gives the town leverage and strengthens the case for county investment. Meloche said he questioned the county as to why paved shoulders were put in on County Road 18 “in the middle of farming country” when County Road 10 (Middle Side Road) has a greater urban area. Meloche said he was told to go back and talk with representatives on the CWATS committee.

Administration added an update to the CWATS master plan is being worked on with a request for that area to be considered and the town is optimistic about it.

Councillor Peter Courtney said he wasn’t opposed but had his own questions. He wanted to know why another section of the subdivision couldn’t be used for a stormwater management pond and not in a park.

“The value to that land seems a lot more than $100,000,” said Courtney.

Miceli said the stormwater management solution could be moved based on council’s direction but would only be for phase two.

“The solution we are getting addresses both phase one and two,” he said, noting there have been flooding issues in that subdivision.

Miceli said phase one is designed with outdated stormwater management criteria.

“ERCA has changed that criteria and we are asking the developer to change to the new criteria,” said Miceli.

Courtney questioned how the first phase of the subdivision was designed pertaining to stormwater management, and Miceli replied that climate change has made a “major impact” on designs. He said when the first phase was designed in the 1990’s, “there was a different situation at that point in time. Design criteria have changed. The reality of it is they are designing for greater storms than they did in the past.”

Councillor Marc Renaud emphasized a big issue they heard from residents in that area was flooding.

“I think if we can come out of this with new development and the flooding issue for phase one and phase two resolved, it’s a major gain for the community out there,” said Renaud.

“it’s a major gain for the community out there"

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A new tulip tree was planted in front of the Amherstburg Community Hub last Friday. It was planted by the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society, who chose the site due to their signature garden also being located there. A grant from the Ontario Horticultural Association helped pay for the tree with the AFMHS funding the remainder. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society gets grant for new tree

By Ron Giofu A new tree has been planted in front of the Amherstburg Community Hub thanks to the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society and a grant they recently received.

A tulip tree was planted in front of the hub last Friday morning with AFMHS president Linda Jackson stating it was done so, in part, due to a grant from the Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA). Jackson stated the local horticultural society received $200 for the tulip tree from the OHA with the society covering the remainder of the $350 total cost.

“The Ontario Horticultural Association has about 19 districts,” Jackson explained.

“Our district, District 11, has 15 horticultural societies.”

The Ontario Horticultural Association has over 600,000 members, added Jackson and that the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society has been around for about as long as the OHA with the latter being founded in 1906.

“We were one of their first members,” said Jackson.

The AFMHS and the OHA have another thing in common, Jackson added, as they want younger generations to become involved and keep the craft of gardening and horticulture going.

“We’re always looking for youth to join,” said Jackson.

Jackson added that a positive thing that may come out of the COVID-19 pandemic is that more people have turned to their gardens to help occupy their time while there have been public health restrictions in place. She believed that could lead to increased membership to the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society and an increased interest in gardening in general.

There are approximately 80 members of the AFMHS, Jackson pointed out.

The Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society has tried to stay busy during the COVID-19 pandemic, she added, including recent activities. In addition to the tree planting last Friday morning, society members were “deadheading” rhododendron plants in the King’s Navy Yard Park last Saturday morning. She added they also do gardening Monday evenings at the hub, as that is where the AFMHS signature garden is located.

The tulip tree will grow to be about 22-feet high, Jackson said, and the Amherstburg Community Hub was chosen by the society as the location because of the signature garden. Both the garden and the tree are pollinators, she said, and the tree is also a Carolinian species.

“A pollinating tree goes with the other pollinators we have here,” she said. “It will bloom like a tulip.”

Jackson thanked the OHA, who were represented by OHA District 11 manager Margaret Laman at the tree planting, for the grant.

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Amherstburg Community Team appeals to LaSalle for police clearance relief

By Ron Giofu A community group from Amherstburg has gone to another of its neighbours seeking relief from the costs of police clearances.

The Amherstburg Community Team, a group of nonprofit organizations that was borne out of roundtable discussions started by Councillor Patricia Simone, appeared before the LaSalle Police Services Board (LPSB) seeking relief from fees charged for police clearances for volunteers.

Cindy Hazael-Gietz, one of the members of the Amherstburg Community Team, told LPSB members they are a collaborative of non-profit and community organizations working together to provide services in Essex County. She said 15 community organizations provided letters of support for the request, including some from LaSalle, with Essex MPP Taras Natyshak also providing a letter.

“Our goal is to continue to provide excellent services and to do all we can to remove barriers in recruiting, training, releasing and retaining highly effective and essential volunteers to serve in our communities,” said Hazael-Gietz.

Hazael-Gietz read a submission from Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo, which stated ACS has over 20 programs that provide support to people of all ages in the communities they serve.

“In order to provide those services, we require many volunteers. Our Meals on Wheels program delivers meals five days (per week) to residents in Amherstburg, LaSalle and for three days a week to residents in Harrow and McGregor,” DiBartolomeo’s statement read. “During this past year, we also acquired the Amherstburg Food Bank and their volunteers sorted food from the June 27th Miracle food drive. They have also put together over 700 food hampers for distribution to those in need in our community.”

ACS is asking that fees for police clearances be waived as DiBartolomeo stated in her report that Hazael-Gietz read that they would rather direct the resources they have into programming. She noted that recruiting volunteers has always had its challenges, including aging volunteers, a smaller population pool to recruit from, and the fact that some seniors are tending to other family members.

“If the volunteers pay the fees, it may be a deterrent

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Members of the Amherstburg Community Team appeared before the LaSalle Police Services Board. Similar to a recent visit to the Windsor Police Services Board, the team is requesting relief from the cost of police clearances. Screenshot

for them to volunteer,” DiBartolomeo wrote.

Safe Families Windsor-Essex regional Joanne Fear spoke on behalf of that organization as well as Lighthouse Church in Amherstburg. Fear noted Safe Families “is a national multi-site volunteer movement that gives hope and support to families in distress by strengthening the community safety net for at risk families.” She said their services are open to all in Essex County at no cost.

“Even a small fee like this can be a barrier to lead with us" “Safe Families is totally volunteer driven. Lighthouse Church also relies heavily on volunteers,” said Fear.

“Volunteers are already sacrificing their time. Having to pay for a police clearance could be a deterrent to volunteering. It can be confusing and even seem unfair that some receive their clearance from the OPP at no charge while those in the remaining municipalities pay $25-$35.”

Fear said the group is asking the LPSB to waive its fees, adding “it would provide equity” for everyone in

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Essex County and give agencies volunteers that would be able to serve with no additional costs.

Blanche Durocher, the chair of the board with The House Youth Centre in Amherstburg, noted they offer weekly programming for youth with a number of volunteer leaders.

“Our mission is always to enable youth to become the leaders of tomorrow and what we’ve seen is the youth that come through our program are more likely to be volunteers with us or other agencies in our communities throughout their adulthood,” said Durocher.

“I think we offer a really unique opportunity. We do have volunteers and youth coming in from LaSalle, Amherstburg and Windsor and many areas surrounding Amherstburg.”

Durocher said paying for police clearances is a challenge for youth as many are still in or just coming out of school and still have student debt.

“Even a small fee like this can be a barrier to lead with us. We do have to have all of our volunteers get a vulnerable sector check,” she said.

Opportunities for youth employment have dwindled somewhat due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Durocher added, and being underemployed as a factor for youth.

Hazael-Gietz added that many volunteers help out with multiple organizations and that leads to the necessity for multiple police clearances LaSalle Mayor Marc Bondy, the chair of the LPSB, said acting LaSalle police chief Duncan Davies will be coming back with a report in relation to the fees. Davies estimated the report coming back in September.

“The schedule of fees that we have in place for the recovery of fees for police clearances and other items is done through a town bylaw. We currently have three bylaws in place that cover the schedule of fees for the Town of LaSalle so any changes to that schedule have to be done through a bylaw,” said Davies.

The Windsor Police Services Board is awaiting a report pertaining to the delegation that was before them recently and the group hopes to re-appear before that body later this summer.

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New heritage and conservation centre opened at John R. Park Homestead

By Ron Giofu Representatives from the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) were joined by a small group of dignitaries in celebrating the grand opening of the new Heritage & Conservation Centre at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area.

The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Foundation are major sponsors of the new facility, with ERCA noting the visitor experience begins with “a grand entrance” to The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Foundation Welcome Centre, which includes the Town of Essex Tourism Hub. Expanded exhibit areas tell the story of the Homestead’s past, and the gift shop features beautiful handmade items from local artisans.

The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Foundation Creative Commons is the centre’s main interior teaching space. It triples the site’s current teaching capacity, and assists in the delivery of programs where specialty equipment, such as microscopes, light tables and scientific specimens, is utilized.

The Creative Commons also provides an exhibit area where educational displays and sensitive historical artifacts can be displayed in climate-controlled environment, ERCA noted. The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Foundation Creative Commons will be used to interpret the western basin of Lake Erie and the significance of the natural coastal processes on the region’s local environments.

ERCA pointed out the Toldo Foundation Outdoor Classroom and Wildlife Viewing Area will allow thousands of students and visitors to take in the historic outbuildings, heritage gardens and orchard, and most spectacularly, the best vantage point of the western basin of Lake Erie.

The building includes an energy efficient lighting system, made possible with a grant from Farm Credit Canada. It will also function as a centralized location for flood forecasting operations so that ERCA may continue to deliver the important Flood Advisory Program on behalf of the Province of Ontario.

ERCA chair Tania Jobin said it was hard to believe when a small group gathered roughly one year ago to break ground for “this community jewel.” She said last August, it was thought a return to normalcy was “just around the corner.”

“Despite the ongoing challenges the community and the world has faced over this year-and-a-half, we were forced to make changes to everything we do,” she said. “What has remained constant is the community’s value of this special space.”

Jobin thanked the donors and contributors who stepped forward to assist with the construction of the building.

“At a time when connection to the outdoors and the need for innovative learning spaces has never been more important, the Toldo Foundation is proud to support the Essex Region Conservation Foundation and our students of all ages in the creation of a unique and environmentally conscious learning space,” said Alex Toldo, a trustee with the Toldo Foundation.

Toldo said the ability for children to come outside to learn is something he looks forward to seeing.

“I think it’s fantastic for our community, it’s good for our children and I’m looking forward to seeing it,” said Toldo.

The Heritage & Conservation Centre received a $600,000 grant from the Canadian Experiences Fund and Claire Wales, president of the Essex Region Conservation Foundation, noted donors not only matched that, but ended up contributing $775,000.

“Preserving our region’s heritage is one of the key focus areas for the Essex Region Conservation Foundation. We are so thankful to the many supporters who have demonstrated their love of the John R. Park Homestead and its ability to bring history to life. Their generous contributions have allowed this beautiful, accessible and innovative Heritage and Conservation Centre to be built for all to experience,” said Wales.

Essex Mayor Larry Snively also thanked the donors and said it is a chance to educate younger generations

The Essex Region Conservation Authority celebrated the ribbon cutting of the new heritage and conservation centre at John R. Park Homestead last Friday morning. From left: interpreter Sam Keller, ERCA CAO Tim Byrne, Lisa Bauer from Friends of the John R. Park Homestead, Essex Mayor Larry Snively, Essex Region Conservation Foundation president Claire Wales, ERCA chair Tania Jobin, Toldo Foundation trustee Alex Toldo, John R. Park Homestead Advisory Board member Lynn Baker and curator Kristen Ives.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

on their history.

“This facility is truly an investment in our community and ensures the Town of Essex is a destination for years to come,” said Snively. “We are proud to support this investment which helps tell the story of our community’s past while sharing information about local businesses and our thriving tourism sector.”

ERCA CAO Tim Byrne thanked the contractors for their work as well as the staff at ERCA for the efforts they put into making the centre a reality. He also read greetings from dignitaries unable to attend, including Windsor-Tecumseh MP and former ERCA chair Irek Kusmierczyk.

“Our government is incredibly proud to support the Essex Region Conservation Authority’s vision to preserve and showcase our region’s history and natural beauty through the new Heritage and Conservation Centre. For generations to come, people of all ages and abilities in Windsor-Essex County can enjoy this sus-

tainable, accessible space for culture and education,” Kusmierczyk’s message read.

Byrne also read a statement from The Stephanie & Barry Zekelman Foundation, adding ERCA “is very grateful” to them for their donations.

“The Stephanie and Barry Zekelman Foundation is proud to be a party to such an important project for our community and our county. The Heritage and Conservation Centre will provide a unique opportunity to educate our community as to the importance of our ecosystem and our need to protect and preserve it. We want to thank everyone who has contributed both monetarily and with their hard work and vision to create such a wonderful space,” Barry Zekelman’s statement read.

The John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area Heritage & Conservation Centre is open to the public Tuesday-Friday from 11 a.m.–7 p.m., and weekends 11 a.m.–6 p.m. during the summer months.

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

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Mass vaccination site in the Libro Centre to close in mid-August

By Ron Giofu If you want to get your first or second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine at the Libro Centre, you might want to start booking your appointments.

Amherstburg town council learned that the mass vaccination clinic will close in mid-August and the facility transformed back into an arena/recreation centre.

Councillor Peter Courtney noted that facilities in Windsor are being handed back to their original owners and being converted back into their primary uses.

He asked about the status of the Libro Centre.

“I am anticipating hockey to be fired up again in the fall,” said Courtney. “Where are we at with that?”

CAO John Miceli indicated the town’s goal is to have ice be back in at the Libro Centre in the second week of September. He said he had a brief conversation with Marc Renaud on the issue, the town councillor who is also the president of the Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA).

Miceli said the mass vaccination clinic will close down Aug. 21.

Fire chief/community emergency management co-ordinator (CEMC) Bruce

“Right now, we have 79 participating pharmacies. The access to the vaccine is readily available in our community."

Montone confirmed the mass vaccination site is scheduled to close Aug. 21. Montone said there is a draft withdrawal plan put in place by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) as the “two dose summer” plans unfold.

“They are tentatively planning for both county sites, the Nature Fresh (Farms Recreation Centre) in Leamington and Libro Centre here in Amherstburg to have their last clinic days on Saturday, Aug. 21. The WFCU Centre in Windsor will transition sooner than that into the amalgamated site in the Sears building (at Devonshire Mall in Windsor),” said Montone. “This takes into account the trajectory for second doses for our youth in our communities aged 12-17 and the rapidly increasing number of doses being made available at pharmacies and health care providers.”

Montone added there will be “more to come” in terms of discussions about how the town disengaged.

“It looks like our last day of operations will be Saturday, Aug. 21,” he said.

Courtney also questioned the impact on user groups, saying if other municipalities have their ice in sooner, it could have an effect on such things as hockey tryouts.

“The OMHA (Ontario Minor Hockey Association) has moved things back a week for travel tryouts. They are not until the third week of September,” said Renaud. “We’re going to push everything back. We’ll be good.”

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The mass vaccination site in the Libro Centre, pictured prior to its March opening, will close down Aug. 21 and be amalgamated into a mass clinic that is opening at the former Sears location at the Devonshire Mall in Windsor. It is anticipated ice will be back in the Libro Centre by the second week of September. RTT File Photo

Those dates were also talked about at the meeting of the WECHU board of directors held online in late June. Medical officer of health Dr. Wajid Ahmed noted the site at Windsor Hall, the former Windsor Star building, closed and moved into the former Sears location and there are further plans to consolidate other sites into the Sears site “given there are more and more opportunities for people to receive the vaccine.”

WECHU CEO Theresa Marentette, who was in her final board meeting before her retirement, said the plan is unfolding as anticipated. With more vaccinations being offered at more locations, the need for mass vaccination sites has changed.

“In our area, we’re getting a lot of vaccine that’s going to our pharmacies as well as our primary care providers,” said Marentette. “Right now, we have 79 participating pharmacies. The access to the vaccine is readily available in our community.”

Marentette added that with the Sears location opening, the transition from the WFCU building to the former retail outlet will occur in late July.

“After that, the two sites in the county that are now currently Libro (Centre) in Amherstburg and Nature Fresh (Farms Recreation Centre) in Leamington, we’re anticipating by the third week of August or in late August, they would close. The municipalities would have those facilities back,” she said.

The Sears site would be able to handle any first doses and second doses after that, she added. It would remain an appointment-only process.

Wednesday, July 7, 2021 – River Town Times – 11

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Skateboard park re-opened to the public

By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Skateboard Park has been temporarily relocated and is now open to the public.

The skateboard park’s new, albeit temporary, location is in behind the Amherstburg Community Hub with the entranceway being off of Victoria St. S. The paving was completed and the majority of equipment was placed there last week with the actual opening being Canada Day. Director of community and protective services Heidi Baillargeon pointed out the half-pipe has yet to find its way to the new location as it is still under repair. According to Baillargeon, special tools had to be ordered in order to take the ramp apart and properly weld and repair it. She hopes it will be repaired and at the new location in two to three weeks.

Baillargeon stated a flat bar rail was added to the park. She said skateboard park users asked for that new piece of equipment and that the town was able to manufacture it for them.

The park had to be relocated as the former site was on the southern end of H. Murray Smith

Centennial Park, which is now owned by the Greater Essex County District School Board. The board is constructing the new public high school on that location.

Town council finally decided to locate the temporary skateboard park behind the hub, though there were concerns from Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) as that area is used for parking and is near the area where ACS’ Meals on Wheels program operates out of.

To expedite the process of having the pavement for the skateboard park installed, town council waived the procurement process to allow for the pavement to be laid quicker. Council debated waiving the procurement policy to allow the skateboard park to be installed quicker at the June 16 meeting with administration pledging to work with the paving contractor to get the best price.

The 4-3 vote saw Mayor Aldo DiCarlo and councillors Marc Renaud, Don McArthur, and Patricia Simone voting in favour while Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche and councillors Michael Prue and Peter Courtney were opposed.

The temporary skateboard park is now operational behind the Amherstburg Community Hub.

Essex County council gets update on physician recruitment

By Ron Giofu Essex County council received an update on physician recruitment to the region, with council members hearing about progress gained but that more is needed.

Joan Mavrinac, the physician recruitment officer, told council members at the virtual meeting that it was her first appearance before county council since October 2019. She noted physician recruitment efforts have been hampered during the COVID-19 pandemic due to international borders being closed and out-of-province physicians wanting to stay closer to home.

“What it did is increase the number of communications I have been having with the recruits over the last 14-15 months,” she said. “It’s been an incredible year.”

In-person exams were cancelled and the Medical Council of Canada qualifying exam, the second part of a qualifying exam, is usually done in-person and that was part of the cancellations.

That has impacted recruiting and it has required reworking with the licensing of physicians.

“It has been an extremely difficult

year,” she said. “Doctors that would have otherwise had full licenses can’t secure them at the moment, but we do have them working.”

Mavrinac has been using virtual and telephone means to recruit and the physical office space in Windsor was closed in March.

“I work exclusively from home now,” she said, adding there are a host of clinics and hospitals as well as the county itself would offer space for meetings. “We’ll save that budget and I’ll work from my dining room.”

Mavrinac said over the last 20 years, they have had success recruiting with 55 new physicians welcomed.

“In terms of overall numbers, since the last time I was here, Canada has 241 physicians per 100,000 population.

Ontario has 218 per 100,000 population and Windsor-Essex is at 175 physicians per 100,000 population,” said Mavrinac. “As you can see, there is still a significant gap with respect to the number of physicians in the community. We need to continue to recruit.”

The 175 number is down from October 2019 and that is the first time since the physician recruitment office has seen the number drop. She said the number of retirements among doctors

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is impacting the overall number of physicians. Many are over 65-yearsold and over 100,000 people regionally could lose their family physician over the next five years.

Mavrinac said over 74,500 people in the area are not rostered to a family physician. An additional 70 physicians would be required to look after the patients who are not rostered.

“We have an aging physician population, we have significant unattached patient population and we have a growing population,” said Mavrinac.

“We need to continue our work particularly as it relates to recruiting family physicians to the local community.”

The new mega-hospital will attract new physician recruits, she predicted.

Now that she can tell people that it will definitely happen, it has made a positive impact to potential recruits.

Mavrinac stated her office began almost two decades ago and pointed out that things in the Windsor-Essex County region have improved. She said this region had 120 physicians per 100,000 people.

“This effort has improved our lot very significantly over the 18 years I’ve been doing this,” she stated. “I see that improvement still coming but

A division of the River Town Times

we’re not beyond it yet. There’s still a lot of need out there.”

Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald asked if the County of Essex is the sole funder of the office or whether it is shared with Windsor.

Mavrinac said Windsor ended its funding roughly a decade ago and hasn’t contributed since.

“They have a shortage of physicians too. I just don’t get it why they would stop funding like that,” added Essex Mayor Larry Snively.

Warden Gary McNamara pointed out the County of Essex has gone out on its own to fund other regional projects. Pertaining to physician recruitment, he praised the work of Mavrinac.

“You’ve been phenomenal,” he said.

“We were in a crisis, a real crisis going back 15-16 years ago.”

McNamara said other regions of Ontario are “very aggressive” in recruitment by offering incentives and said investment in Mavrinac’s position has been a great one.

“I firmly believe with the advent of having our own medical school here and having a new (hospital) centre, there no doubt in my mind that’s going to be a huge draw to bring some of that young talent here,” said McNamara.

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

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

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Lewis criticized for controversial vote on Bill C-6

By Ron Giofu Essex MP Chris Lewis is taking some heat over a controversial vote on Bill C-6, including from a political rival, but is also defending himself for his vote.

One of his critics is his NDP challenger in the next federal election, Tracey Ramsey. Lewis unseated Ramsey in the 2019 federal election but Ramsey issued a statement last week in which she condemned Lewis’ vote. Ramsey said it was a vote to support conversion therapy, a vote she was “horrified” by.

“I proudly stand in solidarity with members of the LGBTQI2S+ community to denounce the vote by Essex Member of Parliament Chris Lewis to support ‘conversion therapy’ in the House of Commons,” Ramsey stated. “While our country has made strides upholding LGBTQI2S+ rights, it is clear there is still work to do to improve the lives of LGBTQI2S+ Canadians. Recent hate-motivated acts of vandalism in our region remind us of the work we need to do.”

Ramsey added: “When it comes to sexual orientation and gender expression, damaging practices like ‘conversion therapy’ have no place in Canada. That Mr. Lewis chose to express this in the middle of Pride month is unacceptable.”

The NDP candidate believed that Essex, and every other place in Canada, “should be a place where everyone can live free from hate and bias. New Democrats re-commit to fight for a world where we are all free to be who we are and love who we love.”

Lewis said “it is a shame that some have chosen to mischaracterize my vote for political gain” and issued his own statement with his position on the matter. He said as a member of the Justice Committee, he voted in favour of Bill C-6 at second reading because he “strongly supported the ban on conversion therapy and wanted to play a role in amending the Bill to address its grave flaws.”

The Conservative MP stated his party agrees conversion therapy is wrong and that “many of our fellow Canadians were seriously harmed by this practise and that it should be formally banned in Canada.”

However, he believed the definition of conversion therapy in the Bill “lacked clarity and was too broad” and that he wants to make it better.

“I spent hours listening to witness testimony and trying to make amendments to this poorly written legislation, to make it about banning the practice of conversion therapy free of ambiguities and uncertain outcomes,” Lewis stated. “All those efforts were dismissed by the Liberals and the NDP. What could have been one of the finer moment of this Parliament became another occasion to divide Canadians.”

According to Lewis, despite “vague assurances” from the Liberals, “this legislation fails to safeguard voluntary conversions with friends, parents, doctors, counsellors and clergy without facing jail time.” He added the governing Liberals chose not to clarify the definition.

“The ban on conversion therapy has my full and unqualified support,” said Lewis. “This wrong has long needed to be made right. What I voted against was the lack of clarity and the too broad definition. I have and always will stand for the rights of all Canadians.”

Lewis said he is “mindful this is a painful issue for the LGBTQ2 community” but stated he couldn’t support the legislation.

“I could not in good conscience support legislation that had the potential to criminalize voluntary conversions,” he said. “The Minister’s assurances rang hollow.”

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

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Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, opportunities to discuss future business enterprises with interested parties arise this week. Your meticulous nature ensures you are prepared to take advantage of these chances.

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, even if you do not consider yourself to be an artistic person, inspiration to pursue creative endeavors comes to you this week. Try something different.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you will be the planner for an event that brings together a number of people who share a common goal or interest this week. Conversations will be stimulating.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 You may be pushed into the public eye, Leo, and perhaps you are worried that you will not be prepared. You are a natural born leader who can impress a crowd.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Someone new and exciting comes into your life this week, Virgo. You will likely spend hours talking about your fields of interest, including exotic locations.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Unusual dreams could spark new ideas in your life, Libra. Don’t discount them as fantasy. Figure out how you can push the boundaries of your imagination.

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

Kyle Meloche bursts through the neutral zone during a February 2020 Admirals game. The Provincial Junior Hockey League aims to take the ice once again in October. RTT File Photo

Junior hockey ready to return to ice The Integrity Amherstburg Admirals of the Provincial Junior Hockey League are anticipating that the 2021-2022 Jr. C hockey season could start in October.

Following a recent announcement by the league’s board of directors, teams in all eight divisions across the province could hit the ice beginning October 1. The Admirals confirmed the news through a press release issued by media relations co-ordinator Fred Groves.

While schedules have yet to be announced, the nine-team Stobbs Division - which includes the Admirals, Essex 73’s, Lakeshore Canadiens, Wheatley Sharks, Wallaceburg Thunderhawks, Blenheim Blades, Mooretown Flags, Dresden Kings, and Petrolia Flyers - are anxious to hit the ice.

The Stobbs Division is part of the PJHL’s West Conference.

“It has been a long time coming, but I know I speak for all the teams when I say that we are looking forward to the return of hockey,” says Admirals’ general manager Greg Crain.

There were no games played in 2020-21 due to Covid-19 and the year prior was cut short due to the pandemic.

“The Admirals will be ready and we are once again confident in putting a winning team on the ice for our fans to cheer for,” said Crain.

The PJHL had hoped to have some sort of season last year, having pushed a possible start date back several times through late 2020 and early 2021 but eventually had to outright cancel the season due to the pandemic.

Amherstburg finished third in the nine-team loop in 2019-20 with a 24-12-1-3 record behind the first place Lakeshore and second place Mooretown. The Canadiens and Flags were scheduled to meet in the Stobbs Division final until the COVID-19 pandemic was declared the finals and remainder of the PJHL Schmalz Cup playoffs were cancelled.

The Admirals could hit the ice at the Libro Centre by mid-September as that is the anticipated time period when ice is scheduled to return to Amherstburg’s twin-pad arena. The COVID-19 mass vaccination centre is scheduled to close in Amherstburg Aug. 21.

Those wishing to volunteer at Admirals’ home games for the 2021-22 Jr. C hockey season can contact Crain by e-mailing gregcrainer@hotmail.com.

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

Community Living Essex County holds 60th annual general meeting

By Ron Giofu An area not-for-profit agency is having a milestone birthday this year and it was acknowledged as part of their recent annual general meeting (AGM).

Community Living Essex County (CLEC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and that was highlighted as part of the AGM held virtually in late June. The agency provides supports to over 700 people with intellectual disabilities and their families and challenges being faced during the COVID-19 pandemic were also acknowledged.

“Since our last AGM, we have all been challenged and changed by the pandemic but we remain resilient and we remain hopeful,” said board president Robert Tomek.

“Community Living Essex County was not untouched

by COVID-19 but the proactive planning, preparations, consultations with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, adherence to all guidance and frequent communications to stakeholders positioned the agency well.”

Tomek thanked the people CLEC supports and their families for enduring the restrictions, separations and loss of some supports. He also paid tribute to the staff, whom he said are “very deserving of our thanks but especially during the pandemic.”

“They, along with our management team and all employees, are remarkable, creative and dedicated professionals,” he said.

CLEC completed its strategic planning process virtually, Tomek noted, adding “we are proud of this new five-year plan and eager to move forward.”

While there will have to be 60th anniversary celebrations done virtually, Tomek acknowledged it was a “meaningful milestone.” Warden Gary McNamara, representing all Essex County mayors, said CLEC has “every reason to celebrate” the milestone and noted how much the agency’s budget has changed over the past six decades.

“Community Living Essex County is a shining exam-

Community Living Essex County past president Robert Tomek presents executive director Karen Bolger with a gift after the agency’s annual general meeting (AGM). Bolger was recognized for her 35 years of service to the organization.

ple of a grassroots organization that has blossomed over the years,” he said.

McNamara added CLEC is there for the people they support “every step of the way.”

“You are passionate in supporting people with intellectual disabilities and the desire to help them achieve their goals and dreams is strong,” said McNamara. “Thank you for 60 years of excellent service.”

Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP Rick Nicholls sent greetings acknowledging the agency’s work during COVID-19 as well as their anniversary.

“From giving folks a sense of belonging all the way to respect, acceptance and value, Community Living Essex County has been doing it for 60 years!” Nicholls wrote.

“I hope to continue seeing everyone involved throughout Essex County for an additional 60-plus years. Time may move on but there will always be people in need of support.”

Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky and Windsor-Tecumseh Percy Hatfield also sent greetings.

“Your work over the past year has not gone unnoticed and we are so lucky and privileged to have such caring individuals serving our loved ones in Essex County,” Gretzky’s message read. “(June 23) is Developmental Services Workers Appreciation Day. We have seen firsthand the sacrifices and incredible work DSW’s have done during this COVID-19 pandemic.”

“For decades, you have continued to foster a caring and inclusive environment for Essex County residents with intellectual disabilities,” added Hatfield. “You have helped expand opportunities for equal participation in community life and you have provided vital support to ensure that those who live with an intellectual disability are able to thrive.”

Chatham-Kent-Leamington MP Dave Epp thanked the front line staff and all employees for caring for those with disabilities while Essex MP Chris Lewis sent in a video where he also paid tribute to CLEC on its 60 years of service to those with intellectual disabilities.

“Community Living Essex County continues to be a leader in the evolution of community supports,” added Geoff McMullen, president of the Ontario Agencies Supporting Individuals with Special Needs (OASIS), praising retired executive director Nancy Wallace-Gero and current executive director Karen Bolger for their efforts.

Community Living Ontario CEO Chris Beesley praised CLEC on its 60th anniversary and thanked staff for the sacrifices they have made during the pandemic while Derek Nardini, program supervisor from the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services called CLEC a leader within its sector.

Greetings were also brought from Ensemble parent consultant Kelly Runnalls and Brianne Taggart from New Day – Leaders of Today.

There were also changes to the board, with Tomek moving to past president and Sue Desjarlais moving from 1st vice president to the presidency.

Community Calendar

FRIDAY, JULY 9-SATURDAY, JULY 10 CLOTHING & ACCESSORY SALEC - Gently used clothing and accessory sale being held at 7208 Howard Ave., Amherstburg, Friday, July 9 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, July 10 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Good selection. Proceeds to Hope of St. Joseph Shelter in DR Congo. Rain dates July 16-17.

SATURDAY, JULY 10 CHARITY YARD SALE - Proceeds from a community yard sale, being held at 2937 Walker Road in Windsor, to be donated to the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. Yard sale runs 9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

MONDAY, JULY 19 - FRIDAY, JULY 23 “THE NEXT BEST THING” VIRTUAL CAMP - Held online by the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. Lots of activities for youth ages 7-14. Online screen time to be minimized so that more time can be spent outdoors. No cost to participate. Register your youth at www.eventbrite. com/e/the-next-best-thing-virtual-camp-tickets.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 7 WALTER PERRY EMANCIPATION GOLF CLASSIC - Presented by the Amherstburg Freedom Museum at Belleview Golf Club, 436 Belle River Road, Woodslee. $125 per golfer includes golf, cart and boxed lunch. Staggered start time beginning at 8:16 a.m., virtual wrap-up at 7 p.m. For information, call Monty Logan at 313-378-2217, Pat Matthews at 519-98205220 or Derrick Hurst at 519981-4997.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 14 COMMUNITY CUP GOLF EVENT - Presented by The House Youth Centre, at Sutton Creek Golf Club. $110 per golfer. Starts at 10 a.m., scheduled tee times. To register or to sponsor the event, visit www.facebook.com/ thehouseyouthcentre, search The House on Instagram @ thehouseyouthcentre or on Twitter @thehouseyc. Proceeds benefit The House Youth Centre.

ONGOING COMMUNITY-RUN PHOTO AUCTION - Photos taken by Windsor’s own, very talented, Caitlin Gonneau are posted on the Facebook page Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club Photo Auction, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/824183344878984. Photo details and minimum bids are listed. Caitlin will be donating all funds received over

the minimum bids, to the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. All are welcome to bid on Caitlin’s work.

HISTORY DETECTIVE - Presented by the Park House Museum. $35 subscription allows access to all ten virtual “boxes” to determine who in Amherstburg’s history is being profiled. For information, visit www.parkhousemuseum.com or call 519-736-2511.

TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG

SENIOR ENGAGEMENT PACKAGES - Amherstburg Communities Services (ACS) offers free senior engagement packages. Delivered to your doorstep (contactless) each month. Call 519-736-5471 for details.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF PESTICIDE USE

BOTTLE DONATIONS - The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club is accepting empties of bottles. To donate bottles, contact Kim at yldkim@yahoo.com or 519-5649699 or Tracy at tcooper@gmail.com. People can also drop them off at 889 Bouffard Road in LaSalle.

MUNICIPAL HARD SURFACES WEED CONTROL PROGRAM

COVID-19 MASS VACCINATION CLINIC - The Libro Centre in Amherstburg continues to be a mass vaccination centre for COVID-19. To book your appointment or to check your eligibility, visit www.wevax.ca or, if you need extra assistance or do not have Internet access, call 226-7732200.

The Town of Amherstburg will supervise Laing’s Lawn Care & Pest Control in the spraying of weeds on sidewalks, boulevards, curbs and fences within the Town limits.

FISH FRY - Held Fridays at the AMA Sportsmen Club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. Everyone welcome. Pickerel $18, chicken $15. Call in advance starting at 11 a.m. Fridays to place order. 519-736-5706. Walk-ins welcome. Runs from 4-6 p.m. The club is also accepting donations of bottles as a way to raise funds for its operations.

COMMUNITY LIVING ESSEX COUNTY MEMBERSHIP DRIVE - Community Living Essex County has officially kicked off their 2021 annual membership drive campaign with the goal of securing 200 members. Members can be anyone from individuals, businesses or families who believe in Community Living Essex County’s mission to support people with an intellectual disability to achieve their goals and dreams and to realize their value as full citizens in our community.. It’s easy to join! Find out more by visiting www.communitylivingessex.org and complete the easy online membership application; or if you have questions, call 519776-6483, ext. 246.

Please be advised that Munger Horticultural Vinegar Plus (Acetic Acid) Registration #29405 under the Pest Control Products Act Canada will be used for control of vegetation in these areas.

Commencing on July 1, 2021 weather permitting and ending October 1, 2021.

For more information, please call Laing’s Lawn Care & Pest Control (519) 818-5755 Eric Chamberlain, Manager of Public Works at 519-736-3664.

Collect calls accepted from individuals calling long distance.

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

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Check DAILY for vaccine appointment availability and eligibility at wevax.ca or 226-773-2200

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

WED

7

THURS

8

FRI

9

Centennial & Jack Purdie Parks Livestream presentation 6 pm amherstburg.ca/livestream

OPEN AIR Weekends

more info available at talktheburg.ca

SAT

10

SUN

11 OPEN AIR Weekends

OPEN AIR Weekends

MUSIC IN THE PARK 4:00pm

FRI

16

12

TUES

17

OPEN AIR Weekends

Recycle

MUSIC IN THE PARK 4:00pm

THURS

&

Advisory Committee Meeting

Electronic

Regular Council Meeting 6:00pm

Participation

Yard Waste South Zone

SUN

Accessibility

Advisory Committee Meeting

6:00 p.m.

18

MUSIC IN THE PARK 4:00pm

Electronic Participation 5:00 p.m.

Electronic Meeting Link: amherstburg.ca/livestream

FREE Yoga in KNYP 10:00am

Limited Available

15

Amherstburg

Recreation

5:30 p.m.

MUSIC IN THE PARK 4:00pm

14

Parks and

Meeting Planning

Limited Available

WED

(Livestream)

OPEN AIR Weekends OPEN AIR Weekends

13

Electronic Meetings

Special Council

FREE Yoga in KNYP 10:00am

SAT

MON

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Town of Amherstburg 2021 Spay and Neuter Voucher Program - 2nd RELEASE 2021 Spay and neuter vouchers are available to continue to assist with the feral and stray cat population in the Town of Amherstburg. We have a very limited number of vouchers for the second release.

There have been a few changes this year, including: 1.) Voucher Applications being available for submission on-line; 2.) Up to three vouchers available per family; 3.) Vouchers will expire within 90 days of being issued; and 4.) All vouchers must be redeemed by October 31, 2021.

When: Beginning July 7, 2021 Where: ONLINE www.amherstburg.ca/CatControl Quantities are limited and are available to Amherstburg residents on a first come, first served basis with valid application and photo identification.

Low income families with cats may also be eligible to receive one voucher through the Town’s Spay and Neuter Program.

For applications and more information on this program, please visit: www.amherstburg.ca/CatControl 519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5