River Town Times - July 15, 2020

OPEN

FAMILY PHYSICIANS

Always Accepting

A I R WEEKENDS

NEW

Patients

S AT U R DAY & S U N DAY 11-4 RAIN

OR

SHINE

519736-2131

433 Sandwich St S., Amherstburg

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Local couple celebrates their “un-wedding day”

By Ron Giofu It wasn’t the celebration T.J. Wreede and Marissa Rocheleau originally had in mind for July 11, 2020 but they were happy with it nonetheless.

That was the date they had planned to get married but the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench in their plans and their nuptials had to be postponed until next July. However, what could have been a depressing day for the local couple turned into a happy one after all thanks to their friends and family.

Wreede and Rocheleau still had their photos taken, despite the fact they won’t officially be a bride and groom for another 12 months, and returned to a surprise celebration Saturday evening at Rocheleau’s King St. home. Friends and family, including most of the wedding party, gathered for a small surprise celebration on the back deck of the home as the couple arrived after spending the day having photos taken.

A short time later, a small vehicle parade went by the decorated home with horns blaring and family members smiling and waving to bring some joy into the couple’s day. The couple were then provided with a dinner for two on the back deck at a table arranged especially for them with balloons, invitations and special glasses.

“They planned (the wedding) for a yearand-a-half,” explained Donna Rocheleau, Marissa’s mother.

Family members and friends tried to keep their plans secret, but Donna believed her daughter knew something was up.

“I think Marissa knows something is going on,” she stated.

Donna added “we never could have imagined this in a million years” in

reference to having to postpone the wedding due to a virus but the family still wanted to mark the occasion and still make it a happy day.

“We’re kind of calling it their ‘un-wedding day’,” said Donna.

Marissa admitted she was suspicious when family members and friends kept asking her about exact times as well as posing other out-of-the-ordinary questions but she said they still weren’t sure what was going on.

“It was unexpected,” she said of the small surprise party.

“It made us feel special,” Wreede added.

The photos taken that day weren’t wedding photos but they were to “celebrate our love,” Marissa added.

“Our wedding is postponed but our love is not so we wanted to celebrate that,” she said.

The couple was grateful for the effort of their friends and family and Marissa noted her sister in Australia also sent a special video message that day. While it was “tough to pull the plug” on their wedding and put it off until next year, Marissa added it was important to keep people safe during the pandemic.

“We’re glad everyone is safe, happy and still here with us,” she said.

The couple have been dating for over six years with Wreede popping the question Dec. 14, 2018. He said they met through mutual friends as they volunteered through their churches. Wreede attends Sacred Heart Church in LaSalle while Marissa is a parishioner at St. John the Baptist Church in Amherstburg.

“We’re thankful to everyone,” said Wreede. “We’re very grateful. A lot of people love us.”

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU T.J. Wreede and Marissa Rocheleau were supposed to get married last Saturday but the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic forced them to change their plans. However, family and friends still helped them make the day special with a small dinner for them, photos and a vehicle parade.

The couple postponed their wedding until July 2021.

We Design and Print Almost Anything 519.736.4175 sales@rivertowntimes.com

A division of the River Town Times

Keep Reading!

Sign up today for your FREE E-Subscription at

FREE Market Evaluation John D’Alimonte SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Direct (519) 796-8073 Preferred Realty Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated

Selling Windsor & Essex County

www.rivertowntimes.com

2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

www.rivertowntimes.com

Site plan, development agreement for proposed greenhouse complex gets partial approval only Town council holds first and second readings of bylaw, withholds third reading for time being

By Ron Giofu The development agreement and site plan for the proposed greenhouse project on Concession 3 North has received partial approval but council members have a number of questions they want answered.

After a debate that lasted over one hour Monday night, the bylaw for the development agreement received first and second readings only with town council wanting a series of questions answered.

Questions ranged from conditions in bunkhouses, fire protection and lighting at the site, which is proposed by Cecelia Acres.

Councillor Michael Prue first raised the issue of fire protection, citing concerns by fire chief Bruce Montone over the ability to protect the rear of the property which Montone noted is a fair distance from the road. While the bunkhouses and other buildings near the front of the site would be protected, Montone had concerns over the ability to reach the back of the site.

Prue noted there could be upwards of 400 workers at the location. He also pointed out the recent hot topic in the area of COVID-19 in the agri-food sector, stating bunkhouses are “hotbeds of COVID-19.”

“I would think a great number of the 400 employees will live in bunkhouses,” he said.

CAO John Miceli said he appreciated the concerns, but said it is out of the town’s jurisdiction and that it was a matter under the Ontario Building Code. He believed living and working conditions were a matter that could be better addressed by senior levels of government.

“We have laws and we have to work within those laws,” he said. “There’s nothing in the law today that prohibits any of this.”

Councillor Patricia Simone said she understood there is not a lot a municipality can do, but wanted to know if town council could have a letter sent to the senior levels of government expressing concern with the issue. Mayor Aldo DiCarlo spoke of the many calls he has been on regarding COVID-19 and the agri-food sector, and said it is a matter for

the Ministry of Labour but was open to the idea of sending a letter.

“I’m sure we won’t the be the only ones sending a letter to upper levels of government about current conditions and how things should be.”

Miceli said he did consult with the operator and was told the workers at his other operations have been tested with no outbreaks reported. He said the operator had his workers quarantined and brought in the necessary food and provisions that the migrant workers needed.

“He was a responsible greenhouse operator and he incurred additional costs that he felt was necessary to keep farm workers safe,” said Miceli.

Councillor Don McArthur said he was “gobsmacked” by the fact COVID-19 was not contained in the administrative report.

“I thought it was a little tone deaf, to be honest with you,” said McArthur.

McArthur asked if a decision was being made hoping the federal and provincial governments would make congregate living safe while Councillor Marc Renaud said the migrant workers caught COVID-19 while in Canada and said more needs to be done to protect those workers, while Miceli said the issue of migrant workers exists because many Canadians don’t want to do the work they do.

McArthur also went back-and-forth with administration on the issue of lighting, believing the proposed agreement didn’t go far enough to protect neighbours from glowing lights at night. They differed on their interpretations of the agreement, with McArthur asking for a more “robust” agreement while Miceli believed the agreement was vetted through legal counsel and offered safeguards.

The CAO later added that they received confirmation there would be no lights as the greenhouse would grow vegetables while McArthur wanted it spelled out that council permission would be necessary if lights were installed.

Prue said that before a third reading of the bylaw is held, he wants information from the chief building official, Ministry of Labour and medical officer of health among others. Manager of planning services

drive-thru STAY SAFE - COVID-19 FRIENDLY

Frank Garardo cautioned there could be an appeal by the applicant. Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche wondered if they were going outside of their “scope” with the level of concerns, stating it was a site plan and development agreement. He asked if other concerns could be followed up later on.

Miceli noted he may not be able to get the answers council is looking for within 30 days. Prue said he just wanted an additional four weeks to ensure the town is able to “get it right.”

“That’s all I’m asking for,” said Prue.

Positive messaging from Community Living Essex County The windows at Channel Resource Centre on Bathurst St. have been painted with messages of appreciation for frontline healthcare workers. Channel is operated by Community Living Essex County, with the agency also putting signs on front lawns of its homes thanking the workers. CLEC is also posting various messages expressing gratitude on its social media sites. The windows were painted by Celine LaBreque.

at

FREE RY E DELIV y to

YOU CAN DROP-OFF & PICKUP!!

(VEHICLES, BIKES & PEDESTRIANS WELCOME)

Transfer in today... it’s easy... We do all the work!

a Mond day Satur

KITCHEN

OPEN

TUESDAY 11-5 FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 11-7 SUNDAY 11-5

CAESAR BAR Carla

Dani

Liz

Beth

Luigi

Yolanda

Kevin

Amanda

Juliana

433 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg • 519-736-2223 • www.apcw.ca

Tabby

SUNDAY

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 3

www.rivertowntimes.com

Organizations benefitting from the June 27th Miracle grateful to community

By Ron Giofu

The two main organizations in Amherstburg that are benefitting from the June 27th Miracle are thankful to the community for stepping up.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU Over two million pounds of food were collected Volunteers with the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission worked hard at sorting and packing boxes and that day across the Windsor-Essex County region with loading them onto skids last Thursday afternoon. The Mission and the Amherstburg Food Bank are among the the approximately 76,000 pounds of food that was local beneficiaries of food that was gathered during the June 27th Miracle. collected in Amherstburg staying in Amherstburg. The Amherstburg Food Bank, which now operates in partnership with Amherstburg solved as not only did the food have to be donated, but people had to step up and Community Services (ACS), will get some of the proceeds while the Amherstburg help the agencies store the food until it can be given out. He admitted to having a Food and Fellowship Mission will also get a large portion of food. few sleepless nights worrying about that but, thanks to the community, McAllister “We’re going to share it,” said ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo. “If said he is resting easier now. there are other organizations in town that need some, please call us.”

“Everyone is doing their part,” said McAllister. “I couldn’t be happier to be part DiBartolomeo pointed out their agency has already shared some of the food with of this team.” the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

Amherstburg Community Services is currently located at 179 Victoria St. S. but “We’re overwhelmed but we’re thankful will be moving into the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. in the we’ll be able to support people and that it coming weeks. Their phone number is 519-736-5471 and their website is www. should be able to last through the year,” she amherstburg-cs.com. added. “I know we would get great support The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is located at 298 Victoria (from the community) but this is beyond all St. S. and their phone number is 519-736-9140. The mission’s website is www. expectations.” aburgmission.ca.

Volunteers from ACS, the mission and the community at large were back at the Libro Centre last Thursday afternoon working up a sweat as they placed the boxes on pallettes and got them ready to be shipped. A lift truck and storage facility was donated to ACS to house the food they will be getting.

Precision Plastics, part of the Windsor Mold Group, and Timberwolf helped Serving the Community Since 1970 provide skids as well as a transport truck and Wigle Home Hardware provided the lift truck and the licensed driver with the help of Amherstburg GMC. Terry HOURS and Lisa Jones assisted by providing a place to store some of ACS’ food as did Mon - CLOSED Lighthouse Church.

Tue, Wed, Thur, Fri “I think an event like this shows you can come together and work together,” said 8:30-5 Sat 8:30-4 DiBartolomeo. “It shows what a great community we live in.”

Sun 9-3 Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission president Tim McAllister also rolled Prices in effect Thursday, July 16th to Wednesday, July 22nd up his sleeves and got to work, joining a group of volunteers from the mission. He said there was a Grade “A.A” “A.A.A” Capless lot of food that can be used by the mission to help people in need. ................................................. lb.

“We see what is at the end of the rainbow,” said McAllister. “It Boneless Pork makes us very excited.”

After all the work that was put ......................................... lb. in before, during and after the June 27th Miracle, McAllister said they Grade “A.A” “A.A.A” now can look back and be thankful for all of the efforts the community ........................................... lb. put in. He added they will be storing their food at Wolfhead Cuddy Oven Roasted Distillery until the end of the year as they go through it and distribute lb. ......................................................... it to the community members who need it.

N MA O McAllister said “everybody Tino Riccio and Kathy DiBartolomeo from Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) help places boxes onto stepped up and solved the puzzle” 2020 skids at the Libro Centre last Thursday afternoon.

Ethnic Market Making a and it was a complex puzzle to be 1970

“I think an event like this shows you can come together and work together"

ROMANO’S

Specialty Meats & Italian Deli

Summer Time

B.B.Q

Rib Steak

Sirloin Steak Beef Brisket

50

’S

RO

Turkey

1389 $ 99 2 $ 99 5 $ 99 8

$

Y E A RS

World of Difference

241 SANDWICH ST. S. 519-736-4721

www.romanosmeats.com WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO LIMIT QUANTITIES

4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

www.rivertowntimes.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Miceli achieves “remarkable results” in his CAO review

Local couple thankful for Essex County Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic

By Ron Giofu The town’s chief administrative officer has had his performance reviewed and it shed a positive light on the job he is doing.

Hired in October 2014, it was the first time John Miceli has had a performance review. Town council voted to conduct a CAO performance review last October, and hired the firm Kercz International Ltd. to conduct it at a cost of roughly $10,000.

According to a report made public at the June 22 town council meeting, Miceli was the subject of a 360 peer review consisting of council, peers, direct reports and “key community stakeholders.”

“The competency areas selected by council for this review included visioning, in-depth problem solving and analysis, decisive judgement, championing change, relationship management, teamwork and collaboration, planning and organization, continuous improvement, resilience, business acumen, integrity and courage and convictions,” the report stated.

“These competency areas were assessed from a variety of perspectives, including an in-depth behavioural interview with Mr. Miceli, interviews with key individuals familiar with his leadership style and approach, standardized psychometric behavioral testing and a 360 peer review survey.”

CAO John Miceli has undergone a performance review and the results are in. The review stated he has “above average skills and abilities within the competency areas” that were set forth as part of the review.

The report concluded: “It is clear from the results that Mr. Miceli demonstrates above average skills and abilities within the competency areas deemed important for the CAO’s role in the Town of Amherstburg. Council is delighted with the results of the CAO review and congratulated Mr. Miceli on his remarkable results.”

Mayor Aldo DiCarlo was pleased with the results.

“It came in very positive. There’s a lot of good stuff happening in town and a lot of that comes from the administrative level,” said DiCarlo. “In a very comprehensive review, it was clear he’s very competent in his field. We are lucky to have someone like him at this level.”

DiCarlo said the review was done by an independent third party.

“I can’t say I was surprised by the results,” he said.

Watermain repairs on McCurdy

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU Watermain repairs undertaken - Public works staff with the Town of Amherstburg were kept busy last Wednesday afternoon after a watermain broke at Sandwich St. S. and McCurdy Dr. Crews were on scene and had the repairs completed a short time later that day.

First of all, I would like to thank my town of Amherstburg for their initiative to acquire the Nurse Practitioner Clinic at the former St. Bernard School.

It has been such a fantastic experience for us with all the help with our health needs they have provided! The team is so friendly and professional.

I would personally like to thank nurse practitioner Heather Raymond and receptionist Kim for their great help. And I would highly recommend that if someone is in need of a doctor and or is tired of driving out of town for a clinic or doctor to go check them out. You will not be sorry!

—Barry & Maureen Renaud Amherstburg

Message of Thanks for the June 27th Miracle I would first like to express our gratitude to all involved who made this event a huge success. Again, we were overwhelmed with how this community came together on June 27 for the Miracle food drive.

Over the last 25 years, Amherstburg has proven time and time again to be a community of “People helping People” and this was a prime example of why the community is so special. Your continued support is greatly appreciated.

We would like to thank the community for its overwhelming show of support through the donation of the cans. We would like to thank the Town of Amherstburg, with their help we were able to utilize the Libro Centre and fill it with cans beyond what we could ever imagine. We would like to thank our many volunteers who worked tirelessly to collect, organize, and store the cans. We would like to thank the businesses and individuals who provided us support for this event. Due to the volume of cans, we would also like to thank Wigle Home Hardware for the use of their lift truck.

When our community comes together anything is possible, we truly believe that. On behalf of the President and the Board Members of the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission we express our appreciation and gratitude for all the efforts of this community.

Thank you!

Sincerely, —President Tim McAllister & The Board of Directors & Volunteers Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission

Your Local Newspaper Team...

The River Town Times Inc. is locally owned and operated!

We are proudly published every Wednesday from

80 Richmond Street, Amherstburg, ON. N9V 1E9

Phone 519-736-4175 Jim Heyens PUBLISHER

Ron Giofu EDITOR

Laura George

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Kim Meloche OFFICE ADMIN

Kelly French

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tom Warwick

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Ian Phillips EDITORIAL

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: : The River Town Times welcomes letters to the editor on a wide variety of topics. Our pages are always open to opinions on local issues, criticism, or recognition of those who deserve praise. The River Town Times retains the right to edit, or reject submissions. All submissions will adhere to ethical standards. Note: All letters printed in the River Town Times are the opinion of the author and not necessarily that of the newspaper.

Please submit your letter (under 250 words please) to mail@rivertowntimes.com, or drop off at the office, 80 Richmond St.

Fax 519-736-5420 • Editorial: mail@rivertowntimes.com• Sales: sales@rivertowntimes.com

A Division of Southpoint Publishing Inc. Your #1 Source for Local News, Sports & Community Information

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 5

www.rivertowntimes.com

should people forget to bring their own.

Visitors name and contact info will be recorded for contact tracing if necessary, the gallery states on its website, and entry will not be timed. Staff will ensure that gallery, the caboose, and the activity room are “within acceptable capacity” to enable physical distancing between staff and visitors. That is defined as 15 people total.

The gallery also states hand sanitizer will be sprayed on visitors’ hands by staff upon entry they will be directed as to one way traffic flow and that the washroom is not open to the public.

Continued on page 6

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU Emma Fleming, a summer student at the Gibson Gallery, stands with some of the work as well as the artisan shop that is now located in the main exhibit space at the local art gallery.

The Gibson Gallery re-opened to the public last Thursday although there are new restrictions thanks to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Gibson Gallery re-opens its doors to the public

140 RICHMOND AMHERSTBURG (519)736-2826 Visit our artisan shoppe for uniq ue gifts!

WE ARE OPEN! Featuring the work of our 2020 artists & expanded artisan gift shoppe CHILDREN’S CLASSES

includes art supplies/face mask

By Ron Giofu After being closed for over three months, one of Amherstburg’s hot spots for local art has re-opened to the public.

The Gibson Gallery re-opened last Thursday and have resumed their normal summer hours of 11 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days per week. They were forced to close in mid-March due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The gallery reopened with a series of new guidelines and protocols put in place including ensuring that all staff and visitors must self-screen before visiting the gallery. Visitors are required to wear a mask or face covering while visiting the gallery. Visitors are requested to bring their own masks and staff will wear face masks when self-distancing is not an option. There will be some masks on site

$40/session -Ages 8-12 Begins July 13 Mon-Tues, Thurs-Fri 12:00-1:30 or 2:30-4:00

June 5 – July 9

Formal art classes –Age 12+ $60/session- 3 Wednesdays Begins July 22

Call to register - NO walk-ins

GALLERY HOURS: OPEN EVERY DAY 11am-5pm www.gibsonartgallery.com

Introducing Corrinne!

Libro is proud to introduce Corrinne Mallender, Regional Financial Planner in Windsor Essex.

Corrinne joined Libro Credit Union last year and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER professional as well as a Registered Retirement Consultant and has more than 20 years of experience in financial and wealth planning.

Corrinne Mallender, CFP® Regional Financial Planner, Libro Credit Union Financial Planner, Credential Securities Corrinne.Mallender@libro.ca 226.340.0814

Corrinne’s primary responsibility is to help you reach your long-term financial goals. She provides holistic financial planning advice suitable for those who need advanced strategies on tax, estate, charitable giving and wealth protection, including higher net worth individuals and their families.

Corrinne takes the time to get to know you and your situation so she can she can provide a personalized financial plan that makes you feel confident and secure. She’ll check in with you regularly to see how you’re doing and ensure your plan is on track.

Libro Wealth Management professionals are non-sales commission, so you can be confident our recommended solutions are in your best interest.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT libro.ca/LibroWealthManagement

Corrinne would love the opportunity to show you a bright financial future you might not have imagined before! Contact her today to set up an appointment. *Mutual funds, other securities and securities related financial planning services are offered through Credential Securities, a division of Credential Qtrade Securities Inc. Credential Securities is a registered mark owned by Aviso Wealth Inc.

6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

“Crazy Hair Day” at Seasons Amherstburg Seasons Amherstburg Retirement Community hosted a “crazy hair day” last Wednesday and ran a contest for residents.

The winner will receive a free haircut paid for by Seasons Amherstburg general manager Tamasin Dineen. Winner also receives the first appointment in Seasons’ hairdresser’s chair on Friday. The winner was Katherine Leskiw, and the photos were shared by her daughter Andrea and staff at Seasons.

(Submitted photo)

www.rivertowntimes.com

Gibson Gallery re-opens its doors to the public

Continued from page 5

Group tours of over ten people will not be allowed until further notice, the gallery also stated on its website..

Other measures taken include a glass barrier, which has been purchased to create a barrier between the point-of-sale and shoppers. Contactless payment is preferred and the Gibson Gallery wants no handling of merchandise prior to purchase.

Bonnie Deslippe, office administrator at the Gibson Gallery, notes they have put their gift shop into the gallery’s main space. They had planned to put a portion of it in the main gallery space this year and still have some gift items in the back room but they moved all of it into the main space due to COVID-19.

Deslippe said that is to allow space for physical distancing during their children’s art classes. Those classes will be trimmed to only four children per session with those children having to be pre-registered, she stated.

There will be no exhibits this year but that doesn’t mean there isn’t art on the walls. Deslippe said each artist that was supposed to have an exhibit in 2020 will have three pieces displayed from now until the end of the season and the same artists will be given an opportunity to have their own exhibit next year.

“That way we have art on the walls and it’s a win-win for everyone,” she said.

Artists that were supposed to have an exhibit this year and have been invited back next year include Ann Ducharme, students with the Greater Essex County District School Board, Madison P.J. Young, Mariano Klimowicz, Elizabeth MacDonald, Denise Antaya, Wendy Matassa, Kathryn Price. The family of the late Gloria Gellner have been invited to share her work again next year with other exhibits planned this year including the members exhibit and “Fibre Optix.”

Deslippe noted that many are first-time exhibitors and they want to give them the opportunity to have a reception, something that is not currently allowed to happen due to restrictions around COVID-19. She also said while summers are usually busy at the Gibson Gallery, they don’t know how much traffic they will get this year.

The Gibson Gallery’s “Holiday Gift Shoppe” is still planned for Nov. 26-Dec. 13.

Deslippe noted they are trying to take part in the Open Air Weekends with tents along the west side of the gallery so that artists and artisans can still display and sell their works.

“We’re trying to support local artists and artisans as much as possible,” she said.

During the three-plus months that the gallery was closed, Deslippe said board members went through cupboards and discovered reference books on topics like embroidery, quilting, knitting, art that they no longer need. Those books are now being offered free to the public.

“If they would like to make a donation, that would be wonderful,” said Deslippe.

Art by the River, the Gibson Gallery’s main fundraiser, was cancelled this year but plans are now underway for the 2021 edition of the annual art show at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada.

“We’re trying to get back to normal as much as we can during a pandemic,” said Deslippe.

The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg.

For more information on the Gibson Gallery, visit www.gibsonartgallery.com or call 519-736-2826.

“We're trying to support local artists and artisans as much as possible"

WINDSOR | CHATHAM | STCLAIRCOLLEGE.CA | WINDSOR | |CHATHAM WINDSOR CHATHAM | | STCLAIRCOLLEGE.CA STCLAIRCOLLEGE.CA | |

WINDSOR | CHATHAM | STCLAIRCOLLEGE.CA | WINDSOR | CHATHAM | STCLAIRCOLLEGE.CA |

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 7

www.rivertowntimes.com

Town, ACOC promote “Shop Local” campaign

By Ron Giofu As businesses attempt to re-open and resume services in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) and Town of Amherstburg are offering to help.

The town is partaking in a provincial “Shop Local” program and is using that initiative to encourage residents and visitors alike to shop at businesses and eat at restaurants in the Amherstburg community. Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said the province reached out to the town about “Shop Local” campaigns and the town wanted to work with the ACOC on it.

According to the mayor, an initiative like this is “nothing new for the town” but did state the importance has increased due to fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“On a business level, it’s gone from important to critical,” said DiCarlo. “We always felt it was important for everyone to shop local. We hope everyone supports local businesses in every way they can.”

ACOC president Nika Laurin noted the pandemic has presented “trying times” for the local businesses and the newest “Shop Local” campaign helps give everyone a much-needed boost.

Laurin and DiCarlo have made videos promoting the campaign and it is being pushed through social media.

The town has made an attempt to work with local businesses and restaurants with the “Open Air Weekends” idea, with local restaurants expanding their patios into the streets. Laurin said that program and the support that will hopefully come from it is “critical” for local businesses in

Amherstburg.

The Open Air Weekends just celebrated its third weekend with portions of Dalhousie St., Richmond St. and Murray St. closed to traffic to allow pedestrians to attend the restaurants and businesses participating.

“Businesses want to know they are being supported,” said Laurin. “We know it’s a trying time. We want to do what is necessary for residents and visitors to come and enjoy Amherstburg.”

DiCarlo said feedback has been positive for the Open Air Weekends and while there have been frustrations, it has mainly been with how to deal with provincial regulations that have been put into place.

“It hasn’t been easy for the businesses or the town,” he said. “We’re all trying to do the same thing which is keep our businesses profitable and operating.”

The mayor suggested the Open Air Weekends could be around for a while.

“Everyone wants to keep it going,” he said. “They think it’s a good way to get people to come out and support local businesses.”

“We thank the town and the Chamber wants to see something like this for a while,” added Laurin.

The town had actually been contemplating the Open Air Weekends concept for a while, the mayor stated.

Once the pandemic hit, they further explored the model and proceeded with planning. He credits town staff for their work as they turned around the idea and worked out the logistics shortly after the area went into Stage 2 of the province’s re-opening guidelines.

Laurin added she would like to see more

Always

CONNECTED. Being apart from a loved one is hard, even when it’s safest. At Seasons, you can rest assured that our dedicated team members are here for all the times you cannot be.

www.seasonsretirement.com

Call 519-736-7557

681 Front Rd. S., Amherstburg

Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce president Nika Laurin and Mayor Aldo DiCarlo are promoting a “Shop Local” campaign locally. It is part of a provincial initiative to help small businesses and restaurants stay afloat as the province slowly emerges from restrictions stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.

entertainment offered and suggested that could be an opportunity once the area reaches Stage 3.

DiCarlo stated the Open Air Weekends doesn’t just apply for downtown businesses, but anywhere within the Amherstburg community.

“It’s for the entire town, regardless of where they exist,” he said. “(The bylaw) applies to them too, not just the downtown.”

While the town’s event schedule has been hampered due to the COVID-19 pandemic, DiCarlo said he views things

like the “Shop Local” campaign and Open Air Weekends as “season-long events” and that they will still help direct people to local restaurants, museums and shops.

“We can advertise for them,” he said.

“That’s not a problem.”

Laurin added the town and its business community are also working with Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) on promoting local businesses within the “Shop YQG” campaign to attract people to businesses in the area.

“Everyone is working together,” said Laurin.

8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

As more businesses and services reopen, and with social gatherings increased to 10 people, we all must continue our efforts to protect each other.

2m

Practice physical distancing, stay two metres apart.

Wear a face covering when physical distancing is a challenge.

Continue to wash hands frequently.

Get tested if you are worried you may have COVID-19, or have been exposed to the virus.

Inside or out, stay safe.

Save lives.

Visit ontario.ca/coronavirus Paid for by the Government of Ontario

www.rivertowntimes.com

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU MASKS4ALL Amherstburg/Windsor-Essex Facebook group administrator Krystle Bernauer (left) presents a $2,500 cheque to Blanche Durocher (right), chair of the board of directors at The House Youth Centre. The proceeds were gained through the sale of Canada Day masks with the money to be used to help The House Youth Centre move into the town’s new community hub at 320 Richmond St.

MASKS4ALL Amherstburg/ Windsor-Essex donates $2,500 to local youth centre

By Ron Giofu A local Facebook group that makes masks for the community also raised some much-needed funds for a local youth non-profit organization.

The group MASKS4ALL Amherstburg/Windsor-Essex has donated $2,500 to The House Youth Centre with the donation being made last Wednesday morning at their new location within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. Krystle Bernauer, the administrator of the MASKS4ALL Amherstburg/ Wi n d s o r- E s s e x group, said the members know The House is in a state of transition and wanted to assist them.

“We decided to help The House with their big move,” explained Bernauer, adding the proceeds were raised through the sale of Canada Day masks group members created and sold. “All proceeds are going to the youth centre.”

People either bought Canada Day masks or simply made donations, Bernauer stated. There was a minimum donation of $10 per mask and there were 250 masks created.

Bernauer added they are now purchasing 1,000 masks from Canadian Tire and will donate the personal protective equipment (PPE) to businesses within Amherstburg who need them. She said it is an extension of the work they are trying to do in order to protect the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Blanche Durocher, board chair with The House Youth Centre, said

Bernauer and the entire MASKS4ALL Amherstburg/Windsor-Essex group have been very helpful towards the youth centre.

“We’re very grateful to MASKS4ALL for thinking of us,” said Durocher.

“We’re just so thankful they’ve thought of us and for the donation. It will go a long way as we move into our new space.”

Durocher said they are “very fortunate” to have received grants for the hiring of two summer students and they will be helping with the move from the current Brock St. location over to the hub. Other board members and staff will be helping and Durocher said they may be selling some items The House Youth Centre no longer needs.

“We definitely want to have an online auction to sell items that are still useful but not useful to us in the new location,” said Durocher.

Durocher said they are excited for the fall when their new location is expected to be available. They will be located in a portion of the gymnasium in the former St. Bernard School while Amherstburg’s Fighting Island Boxing Club will be occupying the remainder of the gymnasium.

“We’re on track,” Durocher said of the move.

Bernauer added her group is hopeful other businesses and individuals will take a look at The House Youth Centre and offer their support. She hopes to “encourage the community to help with the next phase” the local youth centre is currently going through.

“We decided to help The House with their big move"

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 9

www.rivertowntimes.com

Rotary Club of Amherstburg welcomes new president for 2020-21

By Ron Giofu The Rotary Club of Amherstburg has a new face in the president’s chair.

John Sutton was inducted as the local service organization’s new president at the July 8 meeting, which was held via Zoom. He takes over from Ann Marie Favot, who had served as president for the past year.

Sutton acknowledged that things have changed around the world in the past few months due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic including having to stay six feet apart and no high-fives while golfing to having to wear a mask in public. He also noted they could not meet in the same room as a club.

“It really didn’t change me as a person,” said Sutton, noting he has maintained a positive outlook.

Sutton added that the Rotary Club is still a strong organization that is enduring the pandemic despite not being able to meet in-person.

“I still have a deep belief in this club, the members and their talents,” said Sutton.

There are some members of the Rotary Club of Amherstburg that are not as adept at technology as others so they either can’t connect on a Zoom call

or are not comfortable trying.

“How can we reach out to them and let them know they are still valued members of Rotary?” he asked.

Sutton suggested meeting with them individually or in small groups and keeping those members updated and involved.

“That way they still have a voice and know they are still valued,” said Sutton.

The new president noted that several Amherstburg Rotarians were part of the June 27th Miracle, an event that raised over two million pounds of food in the Windsor-Essex County region and approximately 76,000 pounds in Amherstburg alone.

“That’s just extraordinary,” said Sutton.

There are a lot of people in the community that are communityminded as well, Sutton added, and offered praise to them as well. Those people are also living by the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self,” he noted.

Living by that motto is something people can do “COVID or no COVID.” “Let’s not let current circumstances change our club,” urged Sutton.

“Let’s have our club work with these circumstances and make the world a better place.”

Favot was unable to attend the

The Rotary Club of Amherstburg has inducted its president for the 2020-21 year.

John Sutton was sworn in at the July 8 meeting, which was held by Zoom.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

meeting due to illness so club members stood in for her and recounted the positive things that did happen during the 2019-20 term. Accomplishments included the annual Martin Breshamer Memorial Pasta Dinner for Easter Seals, a successful fish fry, the 2019 Ribfest, the awarding of the first-ever Hazen Price Rotary Scholarship, donations of masks and face shields, working with General Amherst High School to raise money in the fight against polio, and playing host to Enzo Biguena, an exchange student from Reunion Island.

“It was really interesting from a cultural perspective,” said Rotarian Joan Donaldson, who was one of Biguena’s host families.

Sutton noted Biguena “had a lot of interesting opportunities” and the exchange student also remarked “I have a home here in Canada.”

The Rotary Club also inducted three new members in 2019-20, which district governor Noel Jackson said was a 20 per cent increase in the size of the club.

Sutton noted they will try and boost membership further this year.

Rotarian Tony Ross praised Favot, stating she “rejuvenated our club from where it was. She did a great job.”

Like Sutton, Jackson also encouraged local Rotarians to rise to the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic is raising.

“How are we going to cope? How are we going to rise to those challenges?” he asked.

Also inducted to the Rotary Club of Amherstburg’s new executive during the July 8 meeting were Donaldson as the new secretary and George Napier as the treasurer. The president-elect for 2021-22 will be Susanne Bergeron.

Receive 1 Laser or RF treatment FREE when you book a consultation or 25% OFF all other services.

LASER TREATMENTS Hair Removal Pigmented Lesions Spider Viens

NO ANESTHESIA. NO SCARS. NO DOWNTIME.

RF TREATMENTS Cellulite Reduction Skin Tightening Body Contouring Anti Aging

MICRO-NEEDLING

Collagen Induction Therapy

601 Sandwich St S., Amherstburg 226 722 5116 www.soleillaserspa.com

4 to 7 shades lighter in one treatment.

Wrinkle Reduction Scar Reduction Stretch Mark Reduction

HOME FACIAL CLUB

HAIR AND SCALP TREATMENTS

Skin Tag Removal Mole Removal Age/Liver Spot Removal

TEETH WHITENING

Featuring

Facials Microdermabrasion Chemical Peels

#1 Choice of Professionals & Consumers.

$19.99

Curbside pickup

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

www.rivertowntimes.com

Area officials provide update on agri-food situation

By Mark Ribble RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

Relatives of Maria Sauro try to keep their distance as they wish her a happy 90th birthday.

Local woman celebrates 90th birthday with family on wheels

By Ron Giofu Maria Sauro celebrated her 90th birthday Sunday and her family certainly didn't forget about it.

A vehicle parade went past her Texas Road home in each direction Sunday afternoon to help her celebrate. Sauro said she knew it was her birthday but didn't realize the level of celebration her family would stage to mark the occasion.

“I'm so happy,” she said. “It's beautiful. I never thought it would be like this.

I have good kids, good grandkids and a good family. Everything is good.”

While a small number of people celebrated at her home, the rest drove by honking their horns, waving signs and shouting messages. Those also included many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. They had hoped to Amherstburg resident Maria Sauro celebrate in person but the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a celebrated her 90th birthday change of plans.

Sunday afternoon. Her celebration In all, Sauro has three daughters, eight grandchildren, eight greatincluded a parade of relatives grandchildren and many more in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews. She said honking and waving as they she felt pretty special being the centre of attention on Sunday. passed her home.

“I didn't know they would do all of this,” she said. “It surprised me. I've got a good family.”

Sauro came to Amherstburg as a young bride when she was 21-years-old. She helped BODY REPAIR run a farm, owned and ran apartment buildings INSURANCE PREFERRED and raised her family. She recalled when it was just REPAIR CENTRE farmland that surrounded her home and now much for The Co-Operators, of it is homes that have been developed in the Axa Insurance, area that is near her.

Wawanesa Insurance, Currently “I came here after the war when there was accepting Intact Insurance, nothing around here,” new patients said Sauro.

Belair Direct, Trafalgar Insurance. and same-day “She's our entrepreneur,” said • Rental & Courtesy Cars Available emergencies! daughter Angela • Exhaust • Brakes • Mufflers Calamiti.

Sauro still maintains • Suspensions her own home and used to walk five kilometres OTHER REPAIRS OFFERED! every day until she was Dr. Roy Dr. Sandra Dr. Dennis Boat Repairs & Paint, Snowmobiles, Motorcycle, RV’s, ATV’s Petras Frederick Petras struck by a vehicle two Pick Up & Delivery! All Work Guaranteed! years ago. She is still Call for determined, Calamiti 736-7480 After hours call 736-4794 added, as her mother still appointment: Now Offering Debit, Visa & Mastercard walks as much as she can (519) 713-8985 with her walker.

465 Front Rd North - Amherstburg

UPTOWN

ESSEX COUNTY — It appears that municipal leaders throughout the region are all on the same page when it comes to the battle against COVID-19 in the agri-farm sector.

In a Zoom meeting held to update the media on the situation with the agri-food workers on Friday, Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens was joined

by Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos, Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald and Essex County Warden Gary McNamara, as well as Erie Shores HealthCare acting CEO Dr. Ross Moncur and President and CEO of Windsor Regional Hospital, David Musyj.

The panel discussed the situation on the farms, the ongoing testing efforts and the possibility of needing additional accommodation for positive cases to isolate.

They all agreed on one thing — the upper levels of government must step up and take charge of the situation.

“The testing is slow and steady,” said Mayor MacDonald. “The province needs to up its game and provide incentives for getting tested.”

By incentives, Mayor MacDonald means that the upper levels have to figure out a way to get farms and workers to comply with testing.

“Growers have to be presented with a carrot or a stick to entice them to get everyone tested,” she added.

While Dilkens stopped short of naming the federal government when asked about who should be in charge, he did acknowledge that the feds and province have to play a lead role.

“Pandemics expose frailties in many systems,” he said. “We are calling on the province and federal government to provide support as we move through this.”

McNamara agreed and said there are so many different jurisdictions involved. “The pandemic has exposed gaps in the system,” he said.

MacDonald was definitive when she urged the federal government to take the lead.

“They are the first and last word as we go forward,” she said. “They should have followed through, but they didn’t.”

The county officials agreed that, collectively, they are working as a team and making some headway, but there is much work to be done.

“Windsor-Essex has been nothing short of extraordinary,” added Musyj.

Musyj explained that about one third of the farm workers have been tested and that number needs to escalate if we are to overcome the pandemic and keep the hospitals from being overwhelmed.

“We need testing in the agri-food industry like we had for employees and visitors in long term care homes,” he said.

Dr. Moncur updated those present on the on-site testing that followed the agri-food workers assessment centre that was set up at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Complex in Leamington.

“We continue to help the teams in the field and remain at the table to provide support and assistance wherever we can,” he said.

In the end, the group agreed that they need the upper levels of government to take a lead role and organize a sustained, targeted solution to help keep the numbers down and keep the virus from spreading as it has in the United States.

Emergency Management Ontario has people on the ground in Essex County, currently assisting the Canadian Red Cross with evaluating testing and isolation locations.

“The testing is slow and steady"

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 11

www.rivertowntimes.com

519 736-8228

gibbinsurance.ca

New Location!

SPORTS > LIFE > ANNOUNCEMENTS > CLASSIFIEDS

535 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS

Villanova hands out annual athletic awards to deserving students

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU The St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School boys hockey team celebrates their WECSSAA “AAA” championship in early March at the Vollmer Complex in LaSalle.

It was one of the success stories that Catholic high school highlighted as part of their annual athletic awards that were announced at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year.

By Ron Giofu St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School capped off the 2019-20 school year by handing out their athletic awards.

While the spring season was wiped out due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there was still something to celebrate from the fall and winter seasons. Among the school’s championship teams this past school year were four WECSSAA titles from the girls golf, boys hockey, senior girls cross country and senior girls basketball teams while the senior

girls cross country team also won the SWOSSAA championship.

Individual winners were as follows: FALL SPORTS Junior Boys Football (Coaches Jolene Coste, Don Hunt, Bill Thompson, Sonny Davis, Bryan Craner) MVP – Cole Thompson Coaches Award – Payton Coste Senior Boys Football (Coaches Jolene Coste, Sean Grondin, Mike Colicutte, Zach Horoky, Zach Coste)

FREE

Market Evaluation

Phil Kasurak Sales Representative

519-977-3402

MVP – Anthony Paossi Coaches Award – Matthew Setterington Junior Boys Volleyball (Coaches Tony Palermo, Amanda Simke) MVP – Rees Kozar Coaches Award – Andrew Langlois Senior Boys Volleyball (Coach Mike Baran) MVP – Antonio Brown Coaches Award – Alexander Stojcevski Boys Golf (Coach John Corazza) MVP – Luke Markett Coaches Award Alexander Stojcevski

Girls Golf (Coach John Corazza) MVP – Kyla Charlebois Coaches Award – Riley Purdie Junior Girls Basketball (Coaches Wren Dossant, Robert Biasutto) MVP – Hayley Mehenka Coaches Award – Eva Parent Senior Girls Basketball (Coach Colin Lesperance) MVP – Hayley Woods Coaches Award – Kira Atherley All-Star – Hayley Woods

“Service You Can Trust” Auto • Home Boat • Farm BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL

Call Today for a Quote

102 Murray St. S., Amherstburg 519-736-2122 • Fax: 519-736-1406 e-mail: insure@hlhamilton.com

Novice Girls Cross Country (Coaches Darryl Martin, Nicole Ray, Julie Muscedere) MVP – Mercedes Ferber Coaches Award – Brook Renaud Junior Boys Cross Country (Coaches Darryl Martin, Nicole Ray, Julie Muscedere) MVP – Lucas Chartrand Coaches Award – Jacob Horvath Junior Girls Cross Country (Coaches Darryl Martin, Nicole Ray, Julie Muscedere) MVP – Kaitlin Ferraro Coaches Award

– Mariah Sgaravato Senior Boys Cross Country (Coaches Darryl Martin, Nicole Ray, Julie Muscedere) MVP – River Renaud Coaches Award – Hunter Bondy Senior Girls Cross Country (Coaches Darryl Martin, Nicole Ray, Julie Muscedere) MVP – Ashley Maguire Coaches Award – Robin Bresolin Tennis (Coach Carosella)

Mike

(Continued on page 12)

Learn to drive the easy way!

Best Passing Rate & Safety Record!

REGISTER NOW FOR ONLINE COURSE In Car Practice During Stage 3

Windsor, LaSalle, Essex, Amherstburg, Tecumseh, Belle River MTO Approved Beginners Driver Education (BDE) course provider.

2521 Dougall Ave., Windsor Register online: www.deltadrivingschool.ca or call 519-967-8383 or 226-787-2528

12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

www.rivertowntimes.com

Villanova hands out annual athletic awards to deserving students

(Continued from page 11) Coaches Award – Nicole Politi and Cameron Way Ultimate Frisbee (Coaches Angela Laporta and Ken Zajacz) MVP – Carson Reaume Coaches Award – Mattia Tortorici WINTER SPORTS Junior Boys Basketball (Coaches Wes Langlois, Jenna Rocheleau, Chris Hatt) MVP – Rees Kozar and Andrew Langlois Senior Boys Basketball (Coaches Wes Langlois, Dave Dethomasis) MVP – Alec Boucher Coaches Award – Bryce Ciarrocchi Junior Girls Volleyball (Coaches Ken Zajacz and Amanda Simke) MVP – Makana Tuquero Coaches Award – Melanie Owen Senior Girls Volleyball (Coaches Angela Laporta and Meaghan Trotter) MVP – Angelnia Kirincic Coaches Award – Morgan Lepain All-Star - Angelina Kirincic

Boys Hockey (Coaches Grant O’Keefe and Nic Swiatoschik) MVP – Matteo Geloso Coaches Award – Theo Kempffer Girls Hockey (Coaches Joe Beneteau and Tracey Curran) MVP – Brooke Gibson Coaches Award – Kylie Laliberte All-Star – Kylie Laliberte, Brooke Gibson, Ellie Muscedere Curling (Coach Melissa Tellier) MVP – Anthony Cypcarz Coaches Award – Ella Young Junior Boys Swimming (Coaches Kristi Rudling and Taylor Morency) MVP – Ben Feher Coaches Award – Noah Drouillard Junior Girls Swimming (Coaches Kristi Rudling and Taylor Morency) MVP – Abbey MacLeod Coaches Award – Ellowyn Oneschuk Senior Boys Swimming (Coaches Kristi Rudling and Taylor Morency) MVP – Gavin Feher Coaches Award – Benjamin MacLeod

Senior Girls Swimming (Coaches Kristi Rudling and Taylor Morency) MVP – Allison Diemer Coaches Award – Mackenzie Fecteau Wrestling (Coach Frank Mancina) MVP – T.J. Langlois Coaches Award – T.J. Langlois MAJOR AWARDS Female Rookie of the Year – Olivia Corazza Male Rookie of the Year – William Doyle Junior Female Athlete of the Year – Kaelyn Batten Junior Male Athlete of the Year – Rees Kozar Senior Female Athlete of the Year – Brooke Boucher Senior Female Student-Athlete of the Year – Finnley Culhane Senior Male Athlete of the Year – Alec Boucher Senior Male StudentAthlete of the Year – Theo Kempffer Letter V Awards – Alec Boucher and Finnley Culhane

Check out our Park House Tinsmith

Product Catalogue The Park House Tinsmith Tinware A Manufacturer of Handmade & the s, and Museums across Canada, Supplier to Historic Sites, Reenactor United Kingdom United States and the Forty Years and Counting

214 Dalhousie St 1W4 Amherstburg, Ontario, N9V Phone/ Fax: 519 736 2511 contact@parkhousemuseum.com www.parkhousemuseum.com rstburg www.facebook.com/ParkHouseAmhe ©2017

ONLINE

TINSMITH CATALOG View it online at

www.parkhousemuseum.com

Park House Museum

King’s Navy Yard Park, Amherstburg | 519-736-2511 |

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU Volunteers help sort grocery items and non-perishable food items at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg during the June 27th Miracle. Amherstburg raised approximately 76,000 pounds of food with the overall total being over two million pounds throughout the entire region.

Organizers thrilled after successful June 27th Miracle

By Ron Giofu Organizers of the June 27th Miracle believe it may be “the most successful one-day community food drive in history.”

In a press release sent out by the June 27th Miracle organizing team which consists of Tracey Bailey, Steve Desjardins, Matt Hernandez, Steve Ilijanich, Mark Jones, Adam Lally, Josh Lane, Melissa Lane, Josh Spadafora, Steve Truant, and Kerri Zold – they noted they were inspired by the success of Chatham-Kent’s “May 16th Miracle.”

Approximately 10,000 volunteers worked safely together – while physically distanced – at over 40 drop-off locations on a food drive that spanned an entire county.

There were about 650 or so volunteers from Amherstburg who participated.

Organizers have finished calculating a rough estimate of how much food was collected at all of the sites within Windsor-Essex County. The estimate is 2,020,500 pounds of food overall, with about 76,000 pounds having been collected that day in Amherstburg.

The multiple sites that were used include, but are not limited to, the WFCU Centre in Windsor, Westport Marina in LaSalle, the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore, Tecumseh Arena as well as the Libro Centre in Amherstburg and took numerous days and countless volunteer hours to sort and distribute to the hungry bellies of those in WindsorEssex that are struggling with food security.

The estimated 2,020,500 lbs of non-perishable food collected from June 27th Miracle stands to feed 28,850 households or 67,316 individuals for one year of food bank usage, the organizing committee states.

“With this as the backdrop, this initiative provided an opportunity to do good together, while apart,” the committee added. “On Saturday, June 27th, a miracle took place in WindsorEssex and is another perfect example of what can be accomplished when a community unites toward a common goal.”

Jennifer Stokes, a team captain in Amherstburg, was thrilled with the overall total as well as by what happened in Amherstburg that day.

“The total amount of items accumulated, volunteers and contributors was simply outstanding,” said Stokes. “This event has really shown us how extremely unified our community is. Everyone in our community in all possible age groups collaborated to ensure this event was successful, with the best interests of others at the forefront of their time and efforts.”

Stokes added that “we have truly set an example for our children and those near and far that when you unite and work together amazing things can happen, and no one is ever alone or without a helping hand. We are all here for one another in good times and hard, and when required we will absolutely support one another.”

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 13

www.rivertowntimes.com

$

15

WORD AD

ANNOUNCEMENT AD

00

$

25

Starting at...

00

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

SERVICES PREFERRED LANDSCAPING - lawn cutting weekly, monthly, seasonal. Call Larry at 519-9847412. ______________________

BIRTHDAY

HAPPY 4TH BIRTHDAY ARIA!

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

APT FOR RENT CASA BLANCA & BELLA Vista 365-369 Dalhousie. Large, clean, quiet with security entrance.

Laundry, patio or balcony, stainless steel appliances, parking. Centrally located to all amenities. Starting at $1100 utilities included.

Call to view (519) 9951565. ______________________

News Tips are always welcome!

Email Ron Giofu at the River Town Times at mail@rivertowntimes.com

We love you!

Dad, the Mom, Bub, Keira, Luca, Aunt Julie & Uncle Pip Sully & Sophie too!

XOX

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Thaynoku!

On behalf of the Bertrand Family, I would like to thank you for the mass, prayers and condolences we received on the passing of my beloved Daughter, Sister, Aunt and Step Mother, Renee Clair Bertrand.

May God bless you all.

Mrs. Theresa Bertrand

60

ANNIVERSARY

thAnniversary

ALFRED & DONNA LUCIER

Happy 60th Anniversary Alfred & Donna were married at St. Clements Church, McGregor on July 16th, 1960 They have 5 children, 9 grandchildren & 11 great-grandchildren.

Congratulations from your family!

OBITUARY

Craig Buckie

February 3, 1972 - July 10, 2020

Craig died unexpectedly at his home in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, July 10, 2020.

He is survived by his partner Hoang, parents, Bob and Valerie and siblings Stephen and Andrew and their families.

Please Recycle this Paper

S W E N L A LOC S

T R O SPOPINIONS

80 Richmond St., Unit 9, Amherstburg

519.736.4175

14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

www.rivertowntimes.com

Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Show cancelled for 2020

By Ron Giofu Add the Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Show to the list of events that have had to be cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

However, those who are interested in antique tractors, steam engines and vintage farming equipment won’t be totally shut out this year, if all goes according to plan.

The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum presents the annual show, which was to have been held this year from Aug. 7-9 back at Co-An Park in McGregor. However, museum president Gary Struhar said they were forced to shut down their plans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We had our heart set on running the show,” said Struhar. “We were in the midst of creating the show book, entertainment booked, tractor pullers booked. We would have needed a Stage 3 to try to do anything, but that would have been after the scheduled show.”

Sturhar told the River Town Times that decision to cancel this year’s show was made at their June 23 executive meeting. It was their first meeting since the March executive meeting, he added..

“A postponement might have been possible in late September, but the ‘what if's ‘started piling up,” said Struhar. “What if the second wave hits? What if the students cannot help? Many volunteers are taking the crops out at that time. It would have taken five days to setup and quite a few out-of-town volunteers and exhibitors would not have been able to attend, which made a tough decision to cancel completely.”

Next year's show will be Aug. 13 - 15, 2021 with the feature tractor being Oliver.

Oliver Tractors and Machinery was to have been featured this year.

Struhar indicated plans are in the works for some sort of programming at Co-An

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU Antique steam engines, like the one pictured in 2019, will not be on display again in 2020.

The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine show, which was to have been held Aug. 7-9 at Co-An Park in McGregor, has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Park this year, but provincial regulations have to allow that to happen.

“We are talking of a one-day mini-show in September, but the Stage 3 must be in place,” said Struhar. “We would not have the saw mill and threshing demonstrations, no tractor pulling, but a line-up of running ‘hit & miss’ engines, steam engine on display, vendor booths. Setting up would be minimal.”

The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum is also based at Co-An Park and Struhar said they have an updated overhead line shaft setup to run a bandsaw, wood lathe, metal lathe, milling machine and a drill press, all operating with overhead belts, pulleys, and clutches.

“Something to see!” he stated.

Struhar added that something new this year is that the museum is open one day per week to accommodate visitors.

“We are open every Wednesday until September 30, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. or other days by appointment,” said Struhar. “There was a slight start-up delay with COVID-19 but it is now open.”

For more information on the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum, please visit www.essexsteamandgasengine.com.

“We had our heart set on running the show"

CABINETS

COMPUTERS

INSURANCE & FINANCE

Computer Data Products

“Successfu fful Planning Fo F r Life ffe”

80 Richmond St., Heritage Plaza

519-736-5561 CDP

•Custom Built Comp mp m uters •PC Repairs •Upgrades •Lap aaptops •Printers •Network rrking •PC Peripherals •Off ffi ff fice Supplies •Soft f war ft aare •Har a dwar ar ae ar •Cab ab a le Internet •DSL •High Speed Rural Wi W reless Internet Provider

Fax: 519-736-5584 www.cdppc.com

MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS  2nd Mortgages

 Refinancing

 Debt Consolidation

 Pre-Approvals

 Self-Employed

Sharron Carr, AMP Mortgage Agent

Èä£Ê-> `Ü V Ê-Ì°Ê-ÊÊUÊÊx£ ÇÎä ££££ Èä£Ê-> `Ü V Ê-Ì°Ê-ÊÊUÊÊx£ Ç ÇÎä ££££

www.milestonephysiotherapy.ca www .milestonephysiothe erapy.ca

519.736.6562 FSCO Lic.10428. H.O: 1.877.667.5483 *OAC

sharron.carr@migroup.ca

Newmodern modern • New accessiblefacility facility accessible More than23 23years years • More than of physiotherapy of physiotherapy experience experience

Neurological&& • Neurological orthopaedicpatient patient orthopaedic care care Evening hours • Evening hours available available

TAXES

Boilers Plumbing Plus

L.C Bookkeeping and Taxes Accounting Specialist

Licensed and Insured

•New Construction •Service Plumbing •Install or Repair Natural Gas W ter •Install/Repair Boilers - Steam or Hot Wa •Te Te fl T st Backfl f ows •Floor Heat Radiant Panel

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

www.jeremiebornaisins.com

REAL ESTATE

PLUMBING Residential, l Commercial & In l, I dustri rrial

Phone: (519) 736-7983

Email: bornaisinsurance@gmail.com

Congratulations Joe Shaw

experience experiencethe the difference difference

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

lower than bank posted rates and more!

Jeremie R. Bornais BA, FIC, CPCA

PHYSIOTHERAPY

MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS for All Your Needs!  Purchasing

Life ffe Insurance, Disability, yy, Critical Illness, Long T Term Care, Health & Dental, Group,Tr Traavel, T Business Insurance, RRSP’s,TFSA’s Segregated Funds, GIC’s, Estate and Financial Planning.

Specializing in Canadian and US Taxes

Call to book an appointment.

519 713-9199

Laurie Cavanaugh Owner

Amherstburg, ON cavanaugh_laurie@yahoo.com

SaleS RepReSentative

OUR TOP SALESPERSON FOR JUNE WITH A 1+MILLION DOLLAR MONTH Joe is an Amherstburg Resident... Call him today with your questions about the current fast paced market.

519.259.2105 Office 519.966.3750 Cell

REAL ESTATE PREFERRED REALTY LTD 80 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 1Z6 Each office independently owned and operated

JOHN HALL SALES REPRESENTATIVE CELL OFFICE EMAIL WEB

226.347.8956 519.736.1766 CALLJOHNHALL@GMAIL.COM WWW.CALLJOHNHALL.CA

Call Hall Today!

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in the Town of Essex last Wednesday afternoon to welcome a new packaging facility to the region.

Crawford Packaging is opening a new facility in the region and the multi-million investment will create about ten jobs.

New packaging facility breaks ground in the region

By Ron Giofu A packaging company with locations around North America now has a location within Essex County.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held last Wednesday afternoon in Essex at the site of Crawford Packaging’s new home. It is located on South Talbot Road North, between Maidstone Ave. and Highway 3.

The company was established in 1963. It provides packaging solutions for clients around the world. In the Essex region, the company focuses on packaging for local produce.

“The Town of Essex is in an ideal geography for Crawford. While it is adjacent to the heart of the produce market, it also provides great accessibility to industrial markets from Windsor to Chatham,” said John Ashby, President

of Crawford Packaging. “From the moment we began working with the Town of Essex we were supported and felt we had a partner to help make our project happen. It is this partnership and the level of personal contact provided by Essex that ensured any obstacles in the planning and approval processes were overcome.”

The facility will initially bring ten jobs to the municipality, with potential to expand in the future.

“The facility is being built with a planned expansion to double its size,” Ashby added.

“Not only will the operation have an immediate impact due to Crawford’s employment but it will allow a higher level of service to clients in the region to help those companies achieve their growth objectives.”

The new building will be approximately 25,000 square feet and the “multi-million dollar” investment

“From the moment we began working with the Town of Essex we were supported”

should be completed in a six-month time frame, if all goes according to plan.

“On behalf of the citizens of the Town of Essex, I’d like to welcome Crawford Packaging and its employees to our amazing community,” said Essex Mayor Larry Snively. “As a Council, we’ve made it a priority to bring new businesses and jobs to our community, particularly along Highway 3. This is yet

another example of helping these businesses make the connections they need while providing shovel-ready development areas.”

The development is another significant addition to the Highway 3 commercial and industrial corridor and follows the 2019 construction of SouthPoint Equipment, a 10,000 square foot commercial development.

THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG is currently recruiting for a Supervisor of Accounting Reporting to the Treasurer, the Supervisor of Accounting provides assistance in carrying out all statutory functions as set out in the Municipal Act, 2001 (as amended) and related legislation, to ensure that appropriate financial reporting systems are in place with the necessary controls to provide information on the Municipality’s financial position and to meet legal requirements and professional accounting standards. The Supervisor of Accounting oversees the organization and completion of daily work activities of direct reports, confirms the quality of work and maintains accurate employee records.

The successful candidate will possess a University Degree in Business Administration or Accounting, with a professional accounting designation in good standing (CPA). A minimum of 5 years’ experience in progressively responsible accounting positions requiring transaction analysis, preparation of reports and financial statements is required. 3-5 years’ Municipal accounting experience is preferred.

Visit www.amherstburg.ca for a detailed job description. Applicants are to submit a detailed resume no later than Friday July 24, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. to the Human Resources division at: resumes@amherstburg.ca Personal information is collected under the authority of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O 2001, and will be used only for the purpose of determining eligibility for employment.

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

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU Crawford Packaging president John Ashby discusses his company’s plans for their new Essex location last Wednesday afternoon. The company is building a new 25,000-square foot location and it should be open within six months or so.

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, July 15, 2020

www.rivertowntimes.com

The Townofof The Town Amherstburg Amherstburg RECYCLE

RECYCLE RECYCLE

July 17 JulyJuly 17 17

July 31

JulyJuly 31 31 Aug Aug 14 14

Aug 14

Yard waste Yard waste

garbage pick up garbage pick up

garbage pick up

Delays Delays may may occur, occur,

Delays may garbage occur, however however garbage however garbage collection continues collection continues as as regularly scheduled. collection continues as regularly scheduled. regularly scheduled.

pick up

Yardpick waste up

July July 27 27 & & August August 10 10 (south zone) (south zone) July 27 & August 10 July 20 & August July 20zone) & August 1(Sat) 1(Sat) (south (north zone) (north zone) July 20 & August 1(Sat)

pick up

Open Open Saturday's, Saturday's, 8:30am-1:30pm 8:30am-1:30pm Location: Heritage Open Saturday's, 8:30am-1:30pm Location: G.L G.L Heritage Company Company 8728 Ave Location: G.L Heritage Company 8728 Howard Howard Ave

8728 Howard Ave

(north zone)

WHITE GOODS WHITE GOODS PIck up PIck up

WHITE GOODS PIck up

July July 23 23

(call (call for for pick pick up up by

by July July 17th) 17th)

JulyAugust 23 27 August 27

(call (call for pick up by July 17th) 21st) (call for for pick pick up up by

by August August 21st)

August 27

(call for pick up by August 21st) "Stay "Stay tuned tuned to to the the Town's Town's Social Social Sites Sites for for information on upcoming Committee meetings" information onthe upcoming Committee meetings" "Stay tuned to Town's Social Sites for watch live at: www.amherstburg.ca/livestream watch live at: www.amherstburg.ca/livestream

information on upcoming Committee meetings" watch live at: www.amherstburg.ca/livestream

2020 FINAL TAX NOTICE

2020 Final Property Tax Notices for the Town of Amherstburg were mailed on or before July 2, 2020. Any balance owing on the account is as of June 12, 2019.

Please contact the finance office if you have not received your tax notice by July 10, 2020. Phone: 519-736-0012

CALL FOR APPLICANTS Economic Development Advisory Committee 2018-2022 Term Applications will be received until 4:30 p.m., July 24th, 2020 from eligible residents of the Town of Amherstburg who desire to have their name considered for appointment to the Economic Development Advisory Committee for the Town of Amherstburg with a term to expire on November 30th, 2022.

Application forms are available at Town Hall, 271 Sandwich Street South or on the Town website at www.amherstburg.ca. All submissions shall be addressed to the undersigned and will be accepted by the undersigned by mail, facsimile, building mail drop box, email, or electronic submission until 4:30 p.m. on July 24th, 2020.

• •

Tax Due Dates are: Installment #1: July 31, 2020 Installment #2: October 30, 2020 Payment must reach our office on or before the due date to avoid late payment charges.

RECYC

Economic Development Advisory Committee – This newly established Economic Development Advisory Committee will meet on a bi-monthly basis. The role of the committee is to advise Town Council on matters related to the Town’s socio-economic development including:

• •

Supporting and enhancing the Town of Amherstburg strategic plan and other economic development programs; Opportunities, tools, policies and By-laws to support existing business retention and expansion and new business investment and attraction; Funding opportunities from both Federal and Provincial levels of government to be used for programs and projects to support economic and community initiatives; Facilitating communication between various business, commerce, and marketing organizations in Amherstburg and with the community-at-large regarding business, investment and community development.

Applicants must: • • • • •

be a tenant or owner of land in the Town of Amherstburg, or the spouse of such owner or tenant be 18 years of age or older have a demonstrated expertise, interest, and involvement in the sector(s) of the specified board fairly represent the sector(s) of the specified board commit the time required to work on the board/committee

For further information please contact:

Failure to receive a tax notice does not absolve the property owner of their obligation to pay taxes and/or interest incurred.

Paula Parker, Municipal Clerk, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario, N9V 2A5 Phone: (519) 736-0012 ext. 2238 FAX: (519) 736-5403 pparker@amherstburg.ca Personal information, as defined by the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA), is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001, and in accordance with MFIPPA and all other relevant legislation. The information will be used strictly for the purpose of appointing Environmental Advisory Committee members. Questions about this collection can be directed to the above noted.

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

J