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Wednesday, June 2, 2021
Public to vote on possible ward system By Ron Giofu
The concept of Amherstburg switching to a ward system is still on the table, but the public will have a say in whether it is implemented. Town council agreed to let the public vote on the matter in the 2022 municipal election with the ballot question being “Are you in favour of a Ward Election System?” Clerk Paula Parker stated in a report to council that public education is required prior to passing any bylaw on the matter, with those public education sessions explaining how a three or five ward system could work. “Once the 2022 Election results are in, if the question on the ballot is determined to be valid, meaning that over 50% of the electorate vote on election day and over 50% of those that voted vote in favour of the question (“yes”), Council can then, as is within their power to do so as per the Municipal Act, consider whether a 3-ward or 5-ward system works best for the electorate,” Parker stated in her report. “Council may at that time, also wish to consider further consultation from its electorate on both 3 and 5 ward systems by conducting a survey, in-person gatherings (if permitted), through social media platforms or virtual open houses to consider what the electorate favours of the options proposed.” Currently, the public elects the mayor, deputy mayor and five councillors in an at large system. If the town were to go to a three-ward system, the mayor would
continue to be elected at large with two councillors elected in each ward. Under that scenario, the deputy mayor would be chosen by council among the six councillors or selected on an annual rotation. A five-ward system would see the mayor and deputy mayor elected at large while there would be one council member elected in each ward. “The financial impacts of an At-large Election have been considered in budget deliberations since 2019. Council has approved a transfer of $33,600 to the Election Reserve in 2019, 2020 and 2021. That same level of annual allocation will be requested again in 2022 in order to fully fund the 2022 Election. Adding a question to the ballot is not expected to change the cost of ballots for the 2022 Election,” Parker stated. “It is somewhat difficult to determine the financial impacts of a change to a Ward System at this time, as there are a number of unknown variables. If assumptions are made that the 2026 Election would be conducted in the same manner as the 2022 Election with the only change being a mixed system, administration estimates an increased election cost of $35,000, which would be evenly distributed ($8,750 per year) in the budget requests for fiscal years 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 to fund the 2026 Election at a total estimated cost of $169,400.” Councillor Michael Prue was in favour of adding the question of a ward system to next year’s ballot. Continued on Page 3
A three-ward system is pictured here and is one of the options the public will be able to consider. The five-ward system that will also be considered is on Page 3. Special to the RTT
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In memory of the Residential School students In honour of the 215 children whose remains were found near the Kamloops Residential School in British Columbia, town and county flags are among those that will be at half-mast for 215 hours (May 31-June 9). The Amherstburg Freedom Museum stated via Twitter: “The tragedy of the residential school system is among the many aspects of Canadian history that remains hidden. Finding 215 unmarked child graves at the Kamloops Residential School further demonstrates the continued impact and effects and why there should be more advocacy and awareness of the injustices experienced by Canada’s Indigenous community. We stand with them in the fight to bring this tragedy to the surface.” Federal Minister of CrownIndigenous Relations Carolyn Bennett stated on Twitter that a crisis line is available to provide support to former residential school students and those affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-Hour crisis line at 1-866-925-4419.
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Traffic stop leads to firearm seizure A Windsor man faces additional charges after an incident which began as a traffic stop. A Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment traffic unit officer was conducting speed enforcement in the 1500 block of Front Road North last Wednesday night. Around 9:30 p.m., the officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was allegedly travelling over 30 km/hr over the posted 70 km/hr speed limit. Police say that through investigation, it was determined the driver allegedly had a suspended licence. Further investigation revealed the driver was also allegedly in possession of a loaded firearm that was located inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested without incident. The firearm and vehicle were both seized. A 22-year-old Windsor male was charged with possession of restricted weapon - no licence, possession of a prohibited device – magazine, contravene firearms act, occupy motor vehicle with restricted firearm, possession of a loaded restricted firearm, possession of firearm knowingly with serial number defaced, fail to comply with undertaking - possess weapon. The Windsor Police Service Drugs and Guns (DIGS) Unit is continuing to actively investigate this incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Windsor Police Service - DIGS Unit at 519-255-6700 ext. 4361, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-2588477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com. Stabbing The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment investigated a reported stabbing that allegedly occurred May 22 around 4:04 a.m. Officers were called to a home in the 7300 block of Howard Ave., where is was alleged that a male suffered minor injuries after another man stabbed him in the neck at a gathering. Police say a 31-year-old Amherstburg man was arrested and charged with possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace and assault with a weapon. Trespassing A local woman was charged after police say she was confronted by a vehicle owner after the accused was allegedly trying to get into the car, police say. The matter occurred in the 300 block of Seymour St. around 3:49 a.m. May 24. The 36-year-old Amherstburg woman was charged with trespassing at night. —All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment
ROMANO’S
A five-ward system, as proposed last year, will also be presented to the public. Special to the RTT
Ballot question to ask if people want ward system Continued from Page 1 “The public should have the right to determine how they are governed,” said Prue. Prue added some municipal councils in Ontario have reduced in size to five members. “That’s becoming more common in small towns,” he stated. Councillor Marc Renaud voted in favour of having the ballot question added, but believed the current system is working fine for the town. “I believe ward systems create silos in communities,” he said. Renaud said if there is an issue in one part of town, it is an issue for all members of council. “The system has worked,” he said. “It’s up to the citizens to keep us on our toes.” Councillor Don McArthur agreed with Renaud that he didn’t have an issue with sending the issue to the people, but noted he too favoured the at large system. McArthur added he didn’t prefer any option where the deputy mayor is not elected by the people. McArthur said he was able to meet the broader community while campaigning and said with a ward system, that might not have happened. He added that a ballot question might actually increase voter turnout. “If it gets people excited and gets 50 per cent of them to the polls, that’s a victory for the entire municipality,” he said. “Power to the people. Let’s hear what they have to say.” Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche believed it is a good time for the public to have their say on it. “All people want is ballot representation,” he said. “A ward system sets people’s minds at ease.” Meloche added he sees merits to both systems. “It’s the people who will decide how they are governed,” he added.
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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, June 2, 2021
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Wondering about a ward system
Amherstburg town council has agreed to put a ballot question on next year’s election ballot asking if residents would prefer a ward system. The specific quesRon Giofu tion would be “Are you in favour of a Ward Election System?” and, should the majority of voters vote in favour of a ward system, it would be instituted for the first time in the 2026 municipal election. I will go into the public education sessions and listen to all discussion on the matter with an open mind. If there are sides to an argument I haven’t considered, I will make them part of my thought process on the issue. However, if I had to choose a side today, I would lean towards keeping the current at-large system. Town council is there to represent the entire community and the wishes of all its residents. I believe that all residents should have a say on who their en-
JUST A THOUGHT
tire council should be. I know I like having a choice on all five council members around the table, not just one or two. If I feel there is a candidate in a different part of Amherstburg than where I live that would do a good job, I should be able to vote for that candidate. Conversely, if there is a person on council that I don’t think is doing a good job, I should have a say as to whether that person returns or not regardless of where I live or where the council member resides. I do understand the concerns around representation and ensuring someone from your part of town is on council to represent you. I think voters do a good job with that already as there always does seem to a mix of people from various parts of Amherstburg around the table. That said, if voters do decide a ward system is best for the town, I’m not going to lose sleep over it. If the electorate wants to guarantee that all areas of town are represented, I will live with that and move forward. Essex, Tecumseh and Lakeshore have ward systems while other Essex County municipalities with an atlarge system are LaSalle, Leamington and Kingsville so both ways are capable of working.
Is this how to treat some of our heroes?
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Local resident supportive of new collective My husband, three children and I moved to Amherstburg in June 1977. At that time there was a coal yard at the bottom of Richmond St., a Steadman’s Store right beside it and many job opportunities in the town. How things have changed, some by design, some by circumstance. The design part was that the coal yard was transformed into our town jewel by the foresight and energy of the mayor, council and administration of the day. This group of individuals did not stand still. They went out and made things happen. They sourced out provincial and federal funds to give Amherstburg the envy of all of Essex County, the Navy Yard Park. The circumstance part of the change was that the job opportunities available in 1977 have now disappeared. We are now a tourist town, dependent on visitors to keep our town running. We must bring people into the town. I wonder if we asked downtown business people if they would like to see some changes to our town, what their answer would be? As an Amherstburg resident, I am in full support of the THRIVE collective. I have seen their presentations. I find it all very exciting. I see how beautiful Amherstburg is, I love living here and I don’t mind sharing it with others. I can also see how things can improve. Having a group of people willing to help to improve our standard of living is a win-win in my book! As I walk through the Navy Yard Park and gaze up at the beautiful Salmoni Place Condos, I think that all the residents there must surely thank our previous councils and developers every day for the situation of their home and the gardens surrounding their property —Pat McLaughlin Amherstburg
But if the voters of Amherstburg do decide on a ward system, what type of ward system? There will be options of a five ward system and a three-ward system. Under the five-ward system, voters would choose the mayor and deputy mayor at-large and one councillor per ward. Under a three-ward system, the mayor would be elected at-large while two councillors would be selected per ward with council choosing the deputy mayor either for the entire term or on a yearly basis. Personally, I don’t like any system where the voters of Amherstburg can’t vote for the deputy mayor. I think it is an important enough position to where the electorate needs to have a direct say as to who sits in that role. I actually liked when Essex switched from choosing the deputy mayor among council members to letting the public vote on it, and I don’t even live in Essex. So, to recap, I currently sit in favour of keeping the at-large system but that’s my own opinion. Each voter has their own opinion and I am just one of thousands in town. If you favour a ward system, that’s fine, and I’m open to listening to why you think that way is better to see if my mind can be changed.
I had the opportunity to sit in my car for some time while waiting for my son in law in the Service Ontario parking lot. My view was looking at the parking lot of Richmond Terrace Nursing Home, you know where many heroes work. I was appalled at the smoking area provided for our heroes who smoke. They have a ring of seats with no shade on the paved lot with garbage bins around them. Meanwhile 20 metres to the south of the building and around the corner, there is a beautiful grass and treed area and I thought, that is where heroes can enjoy beautiful surroundings on their well-deserved breaks. I appreciate and want to thank the heroes at RTNH who work tirelessly taking care of our love ones. I also appreciate and want to thank all the essential workers - our heroes in Amherstburg. Where would we be without them in these difficult and challenging times? —Larry Gardner, Amherstburg
Resident upset over condition of yard after town project
I would like to thank the two councillors’ for their help - not. I called them once and I left the issue with them. They called back saying what they can do. I called them back again - still working on it. I called them back and I left voice mails and still waiting after seven weeks. I should have known better. I had an issue with my front yard after the work was done on Pickering Dr. about two years ago. Before they started, they dropped off flyers in our mailboxes say that the yard will be restored to the way it was. I called the town on this I was told there is no money in the budget to fix this, but they have money to hire more people to their staff and increase of wages for whoever. —Gene Zakal, Amherstburg
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Wednesday, June 2, 2021 – River Town Times – 5
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The purpose of The Hour-A-Day Study Club is shown on a slide presented by president Marium TolsonMurtty. Her presentation was hosted by the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. Screenshot
The background of The Hour-A-Day Study Club was presented virtually by president Marium Tolson-Murtty during an event hosted by the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. The club turns 87-years-old this year. Screenshot
“Hour-A-Day Study Club” subject of latest Amherstburg Freedom Museum presentation
By Ron Giofu
The Amherstburg Freedom Museum’s latest online presentation featured a long-serving Black women’s organization. Marium Tolson-Murtty, president of the Hour-A-Day Study Club (HADSC) spoke for roughly one-hour last week on the history of the club, noting it has been in existence for 87 years. Her presentation was entitled “The Hour-A-Day Study Club: The Preservation of Culture, Heritage and Black Feminist Thought in Windsor-Essex County since 1934.” Tolson-Murtty says the club was founded by descendants of the Underground Railroad. She called the club “a national treasure” and a “cultural gem” that was founded in Windsor and now has second, third and fourth generation members. The HADSC defines female Black liberation, advocacy, social justice and mobilization in Canada, Tolson-Murtty stated. She believes the club is “Canada’s best kept secret” and is the oldest women’s organization in Canada. When the club was founded, Richard Bedford Bennett was the Prime Minister of Canada, the population of Canada was 10.74 million and the world population was 2.239 billion. The club’s first meeting was Feb. 13, 1934 at the home of Mrs. James A. Jacobs with the hope of forming a “Mother’s Club.” She believed they were “trailblazing women.” “After a short discussion, it was decided to meet at the same place one week later for the purpose of organizing,” said Tolson-Murtty. “In the meantime, a canvass was made of all women who might be interested in a club whose main purpose would be to mould the character of our children to make the best possible citizens.”
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The mission of the Hour-A-Day Study Club encourages youth to aim for higher education by offering scholarships and bursaries, to foster mutual understanding and comradeship through active participation in community affairs and to strengthen their knowledge of African-Canadian history and African Diaspora. “We really haven’t waivered from that mandate in 87 years,” she said. Mother’s Day events were held from the start as were “high tea” and other events. The women involved in the club “were deeply entrenched within the church and in the community,” she added, and attended “homemaker conferences” as well as attend monthly meetings with guest speakers from colleges, universities and the community. “The women of the Hour-A-Day Study Club prided themselves on being well read and cultured,” said Tolson-Murtty. “They were continuously learning and expanding their minds in order to learn about their culture and the world events.” The club was officially called the Hour-A-Day Study Club in 1935 as they were all endeavoring to study something worthwhile at least one hour a day. The HADSC’s activities involved the war effort in World War II, she noted. Tolson-Murtty said Black women had to deal with racism and sexism. Her presentation covered feminism, Black feminism and womanism. The HADSC has taken up social justice and advocacy work, such as sending a letter to the Minister of Health in 1947 for their interest in opening the field of nursing for African-Canadian girls. They also fought against housing discrimination and fought for education and employment equality.
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The first recipient of an HADSC scholarship was Winslow Shreve in 1947, she added. In the last 15 years, they have given out more than $170,000 to deserving students without corporate sponsors. In 2020, they still awarded $9,000 to students despite the COVID-19 pandemic. “We are extremely proud of our efforts for that,” she said. The club brought in numerous guest speakers including civil rights activist and icon Mary Mcleod Bethune and the first African-American U.S. congresswomen Shirley Chisholm. A special meeting was also held April 4, 1968 after the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. People can support the HADSC through donation, including an #87for87 campaign. People can e-transfer funds to houradaystudyclub.donations@gmail.com. “We are all about preserving the cultural, heritage and legacy of this organization,” she added, and people can share their stories about the club or their own history with the club with them. Current club members in addition to Tolson-Murtty are Raquel Hurst, Tramaine Whited, Kaitlyn Ellsworth, Tricia Alexander-Brooks, Patty Alexander, Barbara K. Smith, Irene Moore Davis, Dena Shreve, Lana Talbot, Marie Henderson and Stephanie Wilson. For more information on the Hour-A-Day Study Club, visit www.thehouradaystudyclub.org, call 226-340-4445 or visit them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn. The entire presentation can be viewed at www. facebook.com/amherstburgfreedom.
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Council to get report on McGregor subdivision, timing of request questioned By Ron Giofu
The proposed second phase of the Canard Estates subdivision in McGregor was unveiled to Amherstburg town council last week, but some questioned the timing of the requests. Richard Spencer, president of RC Spencer Associates and Steven Valente, president of 1473511 Ontario Ltd., appeared before town council and presented their proposals for the second phase of the Canard Estates subdivision. Phase 2 is proposed to have an enhanced stormwater management pond including ecological restoration and active transportation enhancements which could include possible trail extensions along Middle Side Road (County Road 10) either to the Cypher Systems Greenway or to Walker Road where it would connect with a sidewalk on the Essex side which goes to Co-An Park. Phase 1 storm drainage and flooding was identified by residents as an issue and the developers propose to deal with that through the Phase 2 development, which includes the pond. It was pointed out in a presentation by the developer that RC Spencer Associates was the firm that re-did the stormwater pond at the town’s southern gateway. However, a request during the presentation for town council to favourably consider the approval of the proposed plan of subdivision drew concerns from council members, including Councillor Michael Prue. “Usually, a plan of subdivision comes from our planner,” said Prue, asking if manager of planning services Frank Garardo had comments. “I was surprised at the very last statement (in the developer’s presentation) that this is a plan of subdivision.” “This is just an early conceptual plan,” responded Garardo. “The proponents will have to apply for a plan of subdivision and engage further public consultation. It is my understanding the proponents are just asking for support to utilize the existing park area in the Canard Estates subdivision to enhance the stormwater management pond.” Garardo said the current park has stormwater management features underneath but stated the proponents are looking at utilizing the 2.45 acres of park to alleviate stormwater management concerns in the area. He added the proponents are looking at active transportation features as well. Prue believed there were good ideas in the proposal but did have concerns about “how this is supposed to flow out” in terms of what information comes through town administration and public meetings. He added his appreciation that the environment was considered in the report. Director of community and protective services
Amherstburg town council received a report on a proposal for Phase 2 of the Canard Estates subdivision, with this phase being developed by a different proponent than the first phase. Town council will wait for an administrative report before granting any approvals. Screenshot
Heidi Baillargeon said administration has reviewed the plans and supports the plans in principle. She added options will be brought forth to council in a future report. “At a point in time, the developer pre-paid for a solution that now needs to be modified based on new design standards,” added CAO John Miceli. “The location of the stormwater management has always
McArthur added there is “a lot to like” in the subdivision. “I live in the Fox Glen subdivision near here and when you live in McGregor, you live on the moon,” he said. “You can walk in your subdivision and you’re fine, but you walk out onto Middle Side Road and it’s nothing but gravel shoulders. It looks like this will address a portion of that problem.” McArthur was concerned about the ability of children to get to parks in the area and wanted to know if there are opportunities to complete a trail system with this proposal. Spencer stated they are still working with the County of Essex on the matter. “In our meetings with the county planner, we were instructed to go back to the town and sort out the whole question with the park,” he said. Spencer noted the Phase 1 park is owned by the town and added the developer is willing to pay the five per cent parkland fee to extend the trail either west or east. He estimated the five per cent parkland dedication would cost about $100,000. “It’s up to council whether it goes west to (the trail) or east to Walker Road. That’s totally up to council,” he said. Spencer said they wanted approval to the concept of a stormwater pond and the parkland fees for the trails. “We’re seeking council is in general agreement of how we deal with the park,” he said. “Council has to be in agreement or we can’t go back to the County of Essex planning department and issue a draft plan.” Town council followed the advice of administration to wait until a report came back and voted to go that route. Miceli said administration supports the concept from the developers but wants to ensure all legislative requirements are met.
“We were instructed to go back to the town and sort out the whole question with the park"
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been in the park area and the enhancements that are being proposed by the proponent are in the park area. What is actually changing is the type of stormwater system to accommodate the new design standards.” Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche said he was “quite impressed with what I saw” including the eco-friendly features of the pond. He added concerns over whether the lagoons nearby were far enough away from the new pond but wanted to see the project come to fruition as he felt the development was needed in the future. Councillor Marc Renaud believed the concept is “unique” and stated he looks forward to seeing the development come back to council. Councillor Don
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Wednesday, June 2, 2021 – River Town Times – 7
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Kathy DiBartolomeo (left), executive director of Amherstburg Community Services (ACS), and Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce president Nika Laurin hold boxes of rapid testing kits that are being offered in partnership with the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, WEtech Alliance, as well as Windsor-Essex, Leamington and Ontario chambers and the provincial and federal governments. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
“WEStaySafe” program providing rapid COVID-19 testing locally The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC), in partnership with Amherstburg Community Services, WEtech Alliance, the Windsor-Essex, the Leamington District, and Ontario Chambers of Commerce and the Ontario and Canadian governments, launched the COVID-19 Rapid Screening Initiative known as “WEStaySafe.” The Rapid Test Kit centre in Amherstburg opened May 25 and offered through Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) at 320 Richmond St. Test kits cannot be held and will be distributed on a first come first served basis. Hours of operation are Mondays and Fridays 9 a.m.–12 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays 1-4 p.m. According to the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce, small businesses select a representative from their company to be the “screening supervisor” responsible for the program and they sign up They sign up for this free program by completing the Program Agreement form found at www.amherstburgchamber.com, and book a 15-minute appointment for their Screening Supervisor to come to the ACS office to receive training and pick up a two week supply of kits. Appointments can be booked by calling 519-736-5471. Employees administer the test themselves, with a gentle nasal swab, under the guidance of their screening supervisor and test results are ready in 15 minutes. The ACOC adds anyone who tests presumed positive, or inconclusive, is directed to self-isolate and get a PCR (standard) test as soon as possible. The process continues as the screening supervisor reports the total number of tests completed, number of positive tests, number of negative tests, etc. on the Windsor-Essex Chamber website. Employees are generally tested twice per week, the ACOC adds. For more information, visit www.amherstburgchamber.com/covid-19-rapidscreening-program/.
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“Remarkable Resident” at Seasons Seasons Amherstburg celebrated its “Remarkable Resident” semi-finalist recently with a celebration dinner. The winner was resident John Gullick. He was gifted with a letter from theCEO, a framed certificate, a $100 Visa Gift Card, wine and his favourite dessert (lemon meringue pie). He is seen here with Seasons Amherstburg general manager Tamasin Dineen. The contest took place starting in March for every Seasons home in Ontario and Alberta. Three finalists will now be chosen from the group of 20 semi-finalists. They will have their stories filmed and each will receive a copy as a keepsake. The “Remarkable Resident” winner will be selected by popular vote on the Seasons Facebook page in June, and will be awarded one month free rent, August 2020. Submitted photo
8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, June 2, 2021
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Ontario government aiming for “two-dose summer”
By RTT Staff The Ontario government states it is hoping for a “two-dose” summer of COVID-19 vaccines, with the rollout of the eligibility of the second dose now underway. Over 65 per cent of Ontarians aged 18 and over has received a first dose, the province says. Appointments, starting with individuals aged 80 and over, began this past Monday. The province states if there is sufficient vaccine supply, it is anticipated that the majority of Ontario residents who choose to receive the vaccine will be able to be fully vaccinated by the end of summer. “Team Ontario has shown what we can do when we have a steady and reliable supply of vaccines,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Having made so much progress administering first doses, we are now in a position to begin delivering second doses for a two-dose summer. If we receive more vaccines from the federal government, we’ll be able to accelerate our rollout further to offer more protection to Ontarians even sooner.” The province states due to a reliable and increased supply of vaccines throughout May, Ontario has been able to expand eligibility and access at mass vaccinations sites, hospital clinics and pharmacies, with all Ontarians aged 12 and over eligible to book an appointment to receive a vaccine. The Ontario government states it is beginning to accelerate second doses. While the interval between first and second doses can be up to 16 weeks, the province says Ontario will begin to offer second dose appointments at an earlier interval, based on availability of vaccines. The timing of second dose appointments may vary based on local considerations, vaccine supply and the date of first dose appointment. With individuals 80-and-over eligible for second doses starting last Monday, individuals aged 70 and over are scheduled to start booking second dose appointments the week of June 14. The province will then continue to expand eligibility for second dose appointments based on date of first dose. The province states Ontarians who have had their first dose and are eligible for an accelerated second dose may be able to return to the same site or channel
Lines of people were outside of Shoppers Drug Mart awaiting a COVID-19 shot last Wednesday morning. The province is hoping to have a “two-dose summer” and get more Ontarians fully vaccinated ahead of their original schedule. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
where they received their first dose for their second dose appointment, or may choose to book an appointment at a different site or channel. For those in public health units who use their own booking system, or who received their doses from the primary care pro-
We strongly encourage all eligible members of our community to book online at wevax.ca or call 226-773-2200
vider or through a pop-up clinic, more information will follow on how and when second dose booking and rebooking will be available. Second dose appointments can also be booked (without a first appointment) in the provincial booking system. Ontario has already begun offering second Photos courtesy of the doses of the AstraZeneca Marsh Historical Collection COVID-19 vaccine at an 80 Richmond Street Amherstburg accelerated pace with a 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org 10-week interval for individuals who received their first dose between March 10-19. The province states acceleration of AstraZeneca second doses will be provided at a 12-week interval, dependent on vaccine supply, with booking eligibility based on the date of the first dose. Eligible individuals are encouraged to contact the pharmacy or primary care provider where they received their first dose to book an appointment. They might be redirected to a local pharmacy that is participating in administering second doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. PriThe Sandwich, Windsor & Amherstburg (SW&A) streetcar on Richmond Street, mary care settings and c.1905. Streetcar service between Amherstburg and Windsor ran from 1903 pharmacies may also be to 1938. Visible in the background is the Amherst House (now 61 Richmond). reaching out to eligible Photograph by Louis James Pesha. Ontarians. The province
Memories of Yesterday...
will provide further guidance based on advice expected shortly from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) with respect to administering doses of two different vaccine types. This advice will be provided in advance of the 12-week interval when most people are needing to receive their second dose. The government also continues to roll out first doses to Ontarians. Recently the province expanded eligibility to youth aged 12 and over to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine appointment. The province expects to provide a first dose to all willing youth aged 12-17 before the end of June, and a second dose before the end of August. The province says that progress has enabled the government to allow the provincial declaration of emergency and Stay-at-Home Order to expire today (June 2). The province’s emergency brake will remain in effect, with public health measures and restrictions still in place, until the province enters Step One of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopen. Step One may begin as early as two weeks after 60 per cent of Ontario’s adults receive at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and if key indicators, such as risk of COVID-19 variants, hospitalizations, ICU occupancy and new hospital admissions and case rates continue to decline. Based on current trends in key health indicators, the province expects to enter Step One of the Roadmap the week of June 14. The province will confirm timelines closer to the expected start of Step One. “We are encouraged to see the province’s decision to enable the booking of individuals who are 80 years and older for second doses of their COVID-19 vaccine,” said Windsor-Essex County Health Unit CEO Theresa Marentette. Marentette said last Friday they were prepared for citizen 80-plus to start booking second vaccine appointments. “We strongly encourage all eligible members of our community to book online at wevax.ca or call 226-7732200 to make an appointment at our mass vaccination sites or to contact a local pharmacy or healthcare provider office that is administering vaccines to set up their second dose appointment.” Marentette said residents “do not need to receive the second vaccine in the same location as the first, but you will need to ensure that the site, pharmacy, or healthcare provider is offering the same vaccine that was received as a first dose.” “To support this newly eligible group, we are calling on children, grandchildren, and caregivers of eligible community members to assist with making these appointments however unless they are over 80-yearsold, or meet the criteria for a shortened dose interval, they are not eligible for their own second dose at this time. We appreciate the support of our media partners in assisting us in informing the community of this important change,” she continued.
Wednesday, June 2, 2021 – River Town Times – 9
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County getting assessment of roads through 3-D photography By Ron Giofu
While roads staff with the County of Essex will still assess the condition of local roads and highways with in-person assessments, they now have other data to help as well. The county has employed the services of StreetScan, a Massachusetts-based company, to use its vehicle-mounted technology. Alan Rowlandson, a driver for StreetScan, spent two weeks driving up and down county roads with his specially equipped car, which has cameras mounted to the roof and at the rear of the vehicle to photograph the roadways and the condition they are in. StreetScan assesses road conditions in normal traffic flow and, using a pavement condition index scale which runs from 0-100 (with 0 being the worst and 100 being ideal), develops a municipal-wide inventory of road condition. The system utilizes 3D imaging technology to measure road defects, such as cracking and bumps. The 3D imaging cameras provide a 2.4-metre assessment of lateral road coverage and seamless road coverage in the direction of travel at speeds up to 72 km/ hr. Rowlandson attaches a 360-degree camera system to the roof of his vehicle, and that provides imagery of the road surface. The camera system also uses GPS to help mark and monitor the road positions and where the images were captured. According to information provided by the county, the collected data is uploaded to the StreetScan server, where automated software processes the raw sensor data. AI interprets the imagery, assisting in identifying the type and severity of road distresses, which are then weighted according to industry standards to deter-
mine the PCI (Pavement Condition Index) for each road segment. Once processed, survey results are made available to the county in Streetlogix, a GIS asset management platform. The County of Essex is paying upwards of $200,000 for the technology, but manager of design and construction services Peter Bziuk noted this is not an expense that occurs every year. Bziuk estimated county staff will have the data back from StreetScan by August and will be able to compare their data with that of the county’s own assessments. Bziuk added such scans are usually done in the spring after the freeze/thaw cycle. Rowlandson stated he lives in Ottawa and has driven in various Ontario municipalities, noting he is usually on the road for two weeks or so at a time. He drove about 1,800 kilometres of county roads on this trip. “I get a lot of people waving, acting up and dancing because they think I’m the Google car,” Rowlandson quipped. “I don’t spoil their fun.” He added: “Driving on country roads is a lot different than city roads.” StreetScan is the result of a 2009 project at Northeastern University in Boston. It has expanded in North America with over 100 clients in Canada including in Essex County. Rowlandson said if Essex County staff wish to look at a piece of data from a section of county road, they will be able to look it up from the information he collected while driving on the 226 routes he was assigned. “They can go back in the file and pull it all up,” said Rowlandson. “It’s completely accurate.”
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Above - Alan Rowlandson from StreetScan attaches a camera to his car that he drove around Essex County. The county employed StreetScan to gather images of all county roadways as part of the assessments of all of the county’s road network. Right - A camera is attached to a car by StreetScan driver Alan Rowlandson. Rowlandson drove 1,800 kilometres of county roadways gathering images Essex County staff can use to further assess their road system. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
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10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, June 2, 2021
Farmer, William Anthony Allen (Bill)
Age 85 years, of Amherstburg, passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2021. Born January 4, 1936 on the family farm in Malden Township, he was the eldest son of the late Anthony and Mary (Moore) Farmer. Survived by his wife Ritva (Hautala), father to Karen VandenBrink (Rob), Susan McCallum ( John), and Cindy Sinko. Grandpa to Joshua VandenBrink and Eathan McCallum. Brother of Mary, Betty, Shirlee, Liz and Nelson. Besides his parents, Bill was predeceased by his brothers Cecil and Harvey, and son-in-law Frederick Sinko. Bill worked at Seagram’s (Calvert’s) for 42 years, starting in 1956 at the age of 20. Dad always liked to keep busy whether it was tinkering on his cars, going for drives in the country, watching Nascar/Formula 1, or the “hour of power”, Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. In his retirement, he could often be found in the kitchen cooking and making bread. Visitation and a private family service were held at the James H. Sutton Funeral Home, 401 Sandwich St. S. on Thursday, May 27, 2021. You may view his service, make a donation to Canadian Cancer Society, or leave condolences for his family online at www.jhsutton-funeral.ca.
Gaunt, Robert Gordon Sr. May 9th 1925 - May 23rd 2021 With profound sadness, the family announces the passing of Robert Gaunt into God’s arms. He was born in Middlesborough, England where he met and married Marie Johnson (1926-1980). Three of their five children were born there. During this time, he began training as an Instrument Mechanic and became Third Engineer on the ships in the Merchant Navy during WWII. Later in Canada, he qualified as a tool maker, stationary engineer, and studied to become an electronic technician. He came to Canada in November 1956 as a professional Work Study Estimator, to be joined by his young family the next year. They lived in the town of Bath near Kingston, then Hamilton before settling in Amherstburg. There, Bob worked at General Chemical in the H.F. plant where he was a well respected maintenance supervisor until he retired. In 1982, after Marie’s passing, Bob married Audrey Wigle and they moved to Southampton, Ontario where they eventually bought a home on Miramichi Bay. While living there, Bob became a Rotarian for several years and also an avid fisherman and golfer. Bob and Audrey returned to Amherstburg in 2007 to be closer to family. Bob is predeceased by his wife, Marie (1980) and also by his second wife, Audrey (2020), his daughter Jennifer Ross (2005), his son David (2019), and his step daughter, Elizabeth Haughton (1995). Survived by and much loved by daughter Anne Bracken ( Jim), Chris Gaunt (Maureen), Robert Gaunt (Charlene), daughterin-law Sue Gaunt, and son-in-law David Ross. Proud Grandad to Westray (Bobbie Jo), Robert Reimneitz (Angela), Marc Reimneitz, Micheal Reimneitz (Victoria), Shawn Bracken (Carrie), Brian Bracken ( Janine), Marie Smith (Ryan), Jamie McIntosh (Brad), Sean Ross (Cindy), Jennifer Torres (Anthony), Matthew Gaunt (Courtney), Meagan Gaunt (Alex Bondy), Robert and Cory Gaunt, and Jason Haughton. Very proud Great-Grandad to Josh Reimneitz (Gabriela), Connor and Lauren Reimneitz, Alexandra, Hayden, Cole and Brennan Reimneitz, Justin and Kennedy Reimneitz, Owen and Emily Bracken, Abbygale Bracken, Rylie and Cailyn Smith, Wynne and Vann McIntosh, Samantha, Phoenix, Avalon, Celebriene, Elyssia and Auraelia Ross, Garrett, Jake and Merai Torres, Ethan, Oliver, and Finn Gaunt, Braiden, Alaina and Carson Gaunt-Bondy, Elizabeth and Jackson Haughton. If you so desire, donations to Windsor & Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation would be appreciated by the family. Face coverings and reservations are required for visitation on Thursday, May 27, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Families First, Amherstburg, 585 Sandwich Street South, (519-969-5841). You may reserve a time for visiting by visiting familiesfirst.ca or by calling Families First directly. Share photos, memories or make a donation at www.familiesfirst.ca
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Historic building gets facelift thanks to local investors
By Ron Giofu The scaffolding is down on a Dalhousie St. building and the public is enjoying the new look. The building was originally known as the “Hough Block” and later known as the “Hall Block” and is now owned by Amherstburg residents Mark and Kirsten Kurzuk. They added that building, located in the 200 block of Dalhousie St. backing onto Navy Yard Park, in 2015. “We added that to our portfolio of buildings both in town and Windsor as well,” Kirsten commented. The building originally known as the “Hough Block” is now owned by Kirsten and Mark Kurzuk and the front is now restored. The owners have plans for the back and sides of the building as well. “The building was occuRTT Photos by Ron Giofu pied but we already had plans for the building.” Concept drawings for the building were created last year and the Rosati Group was hired to complete the renovations to the front of the building. Construction began last fall and recently wrapped up, with that construction including renovations to the downstairs commercial units along Dalhousie St. “We enjoy bringing back the buildings to what they used to look like,” said Kirsten. “We were totally overwhelmed with the support and positive feedback from people. We’re totally overwhelmed.” Research was done with the help of the Marsh Historical Collection as to what the building originally looked like and Kirsten said they based the drawings off of that. She noted commercial tenants were apprised of what the building would look like while the upstairs tenants – the two apartments in the front of the building and two in the rear – were also kept updated. While the tenants were impacted, she believes the end result was worth it. “Any construction impacts everyone involved,” she said. “You can’t make an omelette without breaking an egg.” Kirsten said they initially considered sandblasting the front of the building but ended up replacing the bricks instead when sandblasting was shown not to be the best option. “We took each brick down to give (the building) a very sound front,” she said. “We replaced them with new Kirsten Kurzuk waters the plants on the building that was restored bricks to make it very similar to what it used to look like.” by herself and husband Mark using a tool made for her by her faThe windows took more time than anticipated to re- ther-in-law Morris. The historic building once known as the “Hough place, she added, as they wanted the windows to be as Block” was originally built in 1903 with an addition in 1907. close to what the originals would have looked like as Historical Collection, “Franklin A. Hough was mayor of possible. Mouldings along the front were manufactured Amherstburg in 1907, 1908 and 1909. He practised law specifically for the historic building and made to ensure for over 50 years in the Amherstburg area. Born at Colong-term durability. She added the ongoing COVID-19 bourg, Ontario, Hough came to Amherstburg in 1891 as pandemic also extended timelines. a junior partner in the law firm of Reade & Kirkland. In “It was very, very time consuming,” Kirsten stated. 1903 he built the large recently refurbished two-storey The sides of the building, currently grey, will be paint- brick building on the west side of Dalhousie St. In 1918 ed to match the front of the building and murals are also he purchased the Park & Borrowman lumberyard proppossible, she indicated. The hope is to get that completed erty (part of the lands previously owned by the Malden this year. Lunatic Asylum). One of the two-storey barracks erected “We have plans for the back, too,” she added. Those there after the 1837 Rebellion was dismantled by Hough plans are still in the concept phase. and reassembled as three large residences which are still Kirsten noted the building was originally constructed standing and occupied on the east side of Laird Avenue in 1903 with an addition to the south end of the building - Nos. 37, 41 and 43. He transformed the large brick bakput on in 1907. She said it has been suggested to them ery/laundry storehouse asylum building into his own that the building now be called the “Kurzuk Block” but impressive residence. Known locally as the ‘Hough added they are taking a “wait and see” approach with House,’ this structure has been owned since the late 1930s that idea. by Fort Malden National Historic Site. By the time of his The tenant on the south side, Terra Green, has a wall death in January 1944, Hough had substantial property where burn marks are seen, with Kirsten explaining that interests in Amherstburg.” was left there by design as that was caused by the LakevAmong the Kurzuk’s other Amherstburg properties iew Hotel fire, the former hotel that was next to the build- are the building at 239 Dalhousie St., originally known ing but was gutted by fire in 1976. as Kirsten’s Fashion Boutique which is now being transOther tenants include Lavender Hair Lounge and Pure formed into the Pepper Cat restaurant, and the building Massage. at 238 Dalhousie St., formerly the Amherstburg Echo The building was originally built by Franklin A. Hough. building. The latter now counts Caffeine & Co., RiccaAccording to Hough’s obituary, printed by The Amher- rdo’s Italian Restaurant and a private apartment among stburg Echo Jan. 27, 1944 and supplied by the Marsh its tenants.
Wednesday, June 2, 2021 – River Town Times – 11
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Updates given on park plans, including skateboard park By Ron Giofu Amherstburg town council has received updates on the skateboard park and two highly profile park projects. The latter projects that were updated include Jack Purdie Park and H. Murray Smith Centennial Park while more clarity was given to the future of the skateboard park. Councillor Don McArthur noted council members are starting to receive e-mails questioning when the skateboard park would be relocated and re-opened to the public. “I understand renovations are happening but now that kids are allowed to go to skate parks again and the lockdown is partially lifted, we’re getting some pressure, they’re really chomping at the bit to head out there,” he said. “When can we finally choose where the temporary location can be for the skate park?” Director of community and protective services Heidi Baillargeon stated the town is working on quotes to set up a temporary skateboard park. She said they are looking to set it up just east of the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. “There’s a parking lot that is currently there that actually fits almost exactly fits the footprint of the old skateboard park pad and it is still centrally located, which was requested by council,” said Baillargeon. “We’re working on quotes to get an asphalt pad put out there.” Baillargeon added repairs are being done to the equipment. “We need to replace ten of the sheet panels that were on the ramps and that is being done currently,” she told council. McArthur also referenced the parks and recreation advisory committee meeting and a delegation from Greg Scott. He wondered what the status of the issues raised by Scott were, with those issues being reported
Town council was updated on where the skateboard park may go and when concept drawings could be made public for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park (pictured) and Jack Purdie Park. There are four concepts for each of those two parks and the skateboard park could be going next to the Amherstburg Community Hub. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
on in the May 19 issue of the River Town Times. “(Scott) advocated for replacing Centennial Field, saving Centennial Field and the track there, even going as far to say could we negotiate with the school board to have them move their property line so the footprint of the track could be made whole,” said McArthur. Acknowledging that administration is still working on the matter, McArthur asked if Scott’s requests were “still on the radar screen.” “Is that something you’re considering and is going to be brought back for council’s consideration?” he asked. Baillargeon stated administration is still looking
into the concept plans from Bezaire and Associates. “I have reviewed a few of them to date. Those will be brought forth to a public consultation session,” she said. “There are two all park concepts that go into that. In the way of a track, I remember it wasn’t necessarily a formal track but a walking facility that could be used as a track and that is incorporated into the designs. Those will be brought forward fairly shortly in terms of public consultation. There are four different concepts.” Baillargeon said there are four concepts for the north end of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and four for Jack Purdie Park. She said she hopes to post those concepts publicly in mid-June.
Local retailer trying to raise money for Jumpstart By Ron Giofu A local store in Amherstburg is doing what it can to raise funds for Jumpstart. Mark’s Work Warehouse is raising funds with assistant manager Annette Sak willing to put her feet on the line to help efforts along. “We are raising money for kids in Amherstburg and the sporting organizations they belong to through Jumpstart charities and the Jumpstart Relief Fund,” Sak explained. “Essentially from June 1 to the 30th, staff members at Mark’s will be collecting donations.” Saks stated donations can also be made by e-transferring funds to amherstburg.jumpstart@gmail.com. “Tax receipts can be made to anyone who donates $20 or more and provides their full name, address and telephone number,” she said. Depending how much the Amherstburg store raises with determine how far and to which local Mark’s store Sak, also a Jumpstart champion, will walk to. Sak stated she started walking with a friend during the first COVID-19 lockdown and their longest trek was from Windsor to Amherstburg, a trip that
Annette Sak, an assistant manager at the Amherstburg Mark’s Work Warehouse location, will take part in a walkathon to raise money for Jumpstart. Money is being collected through June 30 and the amount raised will determine which Mark’s store in Windsor-Essex County she walks to. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
lasted about six hours. She said they want to help children and local sports organizations bounce back once pandemic restrictions are lifted and they are allowed to resume playing. “We’re trying to do our own part and do what we can to help these organizations,” she said. “It’s nice because all the funds stay in Amherstburg.” If the local Mark’s store raises $2,640, Sak will walk to the store at Devonshire Mall, a distance of 26.4 kilometres. If $2,680 is raised, she’ll go to Essex, a distance of about 26.8 kilometres. Should $3,470 be raised, Sak will go to the store in Tecumseh, a distance of about 34.7 kilometres. The store’s top goal of $4,630 would make her walk around 9 hours and 21 minutes to the Leamington Mark’s, a distance of 46.3 kilometres, and would help roughly 46 local kids! The staff in Amherstuburg states “if everyone in town donated just 20 cents we would reach our goal and give Annette some blissful blisters!” The local Mark’s staff states planned to have a “Share to Care Walkathon” Facebook page up and running June 1 for people to check out and learn more about our efforts.
12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, June 2, 2021
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Wednesday, June 2, 2021 – River Town Times – 13
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IN MEMORY
Hey Mom, I made it to 80! ~ON JUNE 7~
HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY STAN DUPUIS! ~JUNE 2ND~
In Memory of
John DaviD Bratt “SpiDer” Who passed away June 3, 2020 Miss you my friend, Chico
IN MEMORY
Love and Best Wishes Your Family
Tim
Happy 15th Birthday
Keira
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a d h t r i B y p p Ha
DOUG!
June 2nd
June 8th In Loving Memory of
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1948 - 2016 Dear Barb I can’t believe it has been 5 years since you left us, seems like only yesterday. You are deeply missed and forever in our hearts. Love Hank & Families
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Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 You feel most comfortable when things are organized, Aries. However, flexibility is handy as well, and sometimes things may not be in order as much as you like. Adapting is key. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, once you get into a groove, you will find that many of your tasks are much easier to manage. Keep plugging and you’ll hit your stride soon enough.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, sometimes it may seem like the smallest issue is suddenly a major mountain that you must scale. Change your approach and you’ll soon realize you can handle anything. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Many things may come to you more easily than usual, Cancer. Ride this wave of ease that has fallen into your lap. Enjoy the break that comes with it as well. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 You can get far with minimal effort this week, Leo. Simply set your sights on an end goal, and before you know it you will reach that destination. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, check your messages frequently this week, as someone needs to get in touch with you. He or she may have some news that can change your course. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, don’t focus too much on emotions this week. Instead, put all of your energy into intellectual musings, which will help you complete a project in the days ahead. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, even with the frenzy of activity around you, try not to be overwhelmed by the situation. Your first reaction may be to fly off the handle. Keep it together. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Consider calling up an old friend or a former romantic partner who has the potential to stir up some passion inside of you, Sagittarius. More excitement is on the horizon. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, this is one of those weeks when you get sidetracked at seemingly every turn, Capricorn. Don’t be too hard on yourself about the delays. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, embrace some difficult tasks this week. These projects will make you appreciate the value of hard work and put simpler tasks in perspective. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 This is your week to make short work of chores, Pisces. You may be lacking patience, but everything will get done, especially if you ask for help. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MAY 30 - Idina Menzel, Actress (50) MAY 31 - Colin Farrell, Actor (45) JUNE 1 - Morgan Freeman, Actor (84) JUNE 2 - Wayne Brady, Performer (49) JUNE 3 - Jill Biden, First Lady (70) JUNE 4 - Angelina Jolie, Actress (46) JUNE 5 - Joe Gatto, Comic (45)
WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to cats. ANSWERS ON PAGE 15
Town council will be seeking money to refurbish Warren Mickle Park. While $75,000 has been set aside for upgrades in the 2021 budget to upgrade the park, the hope is the grant will bring that amount up to $175,000 to allow for more restorations. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Funding for Warren Mickle Park applied for through grant By Ron Giofu Town council had its choice of three projects to apply for under the second wave of the Canadian Healthy Communities Initiative Fund and chose Warren Mickle Park. After debating the issue at the May 25 meeting, council members chose to pursue funding to further enhance the park, located in Amherst Pointe. The other suggestions were to potentially use any grant funds on a pedestrian crossover at the intersection of Simcoe St. and Victoria St. S. and to provide additional enhancements for a baseball diamond that is planned for the Libro Centre. While there is $75,000 budgeted this year for Warren Mickle Park, the town could implement a “broader scope of improvements at the park” if they received an additional $100,000 under the grant program. Currently, the park is impacted by high water levels as it is in close proximity to a tributary wetland of Big Creek. According to administration, there are no trails or walkways and a multi-event play unit is at the end of its useful life expectancy. A successful grant application could help with improved drainage, new pathways and boardwalks, and possibly the replacement of playground equipment. The budget allocation was intended to support a first phase of improvements, the town states. Director of community and protective services Heidi Baillargeon noted the federal government is looking for projects that have public engagement and where the public wants the project. Accessibility is another significant factor, she noted. Baillargeon said they hope to engage the public within the next few weeks on the Warren Mickle Park project, as well as the baseball diamond. Baillargeon said Warren Mickle Park floods and also noted there is limited accessibility there. “We already have dollars set aside for Warren Mickle Park,” said Baillargeon. “This would allow us to go a lot further in being able to make that park a lot more accessible as well as addressing some flooding and drainage issues for accessibility and stretch the dollars as far as they will go in terms of maybe in terms of improving a bit of the playground equipment at that park.” Councillor Don McArthur said all projects were approved in the budget and should all be going ahead regardless of grant funding. He said he didn’t want to delay the pedestrian crossover in any way and feared it could be delayed if the town is waiting for grant funding. “As soon as you start talking about a crosswalk, you’d better get cracking and put up that crosswalk,” he said. “We committed for a crosswalk there, we budgeted for a crosswalk there and I don’t want, of all the projects, I don’t want to see that project delayed.” Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche suggested the town pursue projects that are scheduled for a few years in advance and move them ahead rather than on expanding on current projects. “If we’re going to get new funding, let’s go after some new projects,” said Meloche. Mayor Aldo DiCarlo asked if projects had to be shovel-ready, and Baillargeon said that is in fact the case for this round of funding. Councillor Marc Renaud stated he wanted to see Warren Mickle Park chosen, “as we have a major issue out there with flooding.” More accessible walkways would be good for that community “and make the park more viable than it is right now.” “With the extra dollars into Warren Mickle Park, it can make a very big difference,” said Councillor Michael Prue. Prue added “given the sad state of Warren Mickle Park, it makes sense to make our request there.” He said if they are permitted to use $175,000 at that park, it will make it more usable for residents.
Wednesday, June 2, 2021 – River Town Times – 15
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The Town of Amherstburg just sold a piece of land just to the east of the Amherstburg Community Hub for $900,000 with the new owners hoping to build a long-term care home on the site. It used to be the playground for St. Bernard School. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Deal closes on lands for proposed long-term care home By Ron Giofu
Paramedic Services Week observed in Essex County Essex-Windsor EMS observed Paramedic Services Week in the area last week with banners in each municipality. The banners not only thanked the frontline heroes, but celebrated the fact they live in the area as well. Essex-Windsor EMS states 2,472 calls were made in Amherstburg in 2020 and 32 paramedics live in Amherstburg. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu
Community Calendar
SUDOKU ANSWERS
The deal has closed on the former St. Bernard School playground, which is still proposed as a longterm care home. The matter was made public at the May 25 meeting of Amherstburg town council by chief administrative officer (CAO) John Miceli after being asked about it by Councillor Don McArthur. The land in question is just east of the former school building, which is now the Amherstburg Community Hub. McArthur noted the deal closed in the amount of $900,000 and asked for an update on the lands. “We have said in the past it was conditional on the purchaser securing the necessary approvals for a long-term care home but I understand they’ve waived that condition so what is the latest and does the proceeds from that $900,000 now go back into the parks reserve?” asked McArthur. Miceli confirmed the $900,000 proceeds from the land sale go back into the parks reserve “where the money was borrowed to purchase and do fitups at St. Bernard’s.” The CAO added the purchaser did waive the condition regarding obtaining government approval for the long-term care beds. “They are still awaiting for government approval with regards to the longterm care home and their intention is as per the agreement is to build a long-term care facility once they get approval SCRAMBLE from the government,” said Miceli. The name of the purchaser was not disclosed. St. Bernard School closed in 2016 and the Town of Amherstburg bought the property in 2018. Plans for the long-term care facility east of the former school building were initially made public in April 2019 and, at that time, was announced by Miceli as a possible $30$40 million investment in town and one that would create 80 full-time jobs, 205 spinoff jobs and approximately $300,000 in annual tax revenue.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 BLOOD DONATION EVENT Canadian Blood Services is hosting a blood donation event at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., in Amherstburg. It runs from 1-7 p.m. Appointments necessary. To book an appointment, call 1-888-2-DONATE (1888-236-6236), visit www.blood.ca or use the GiveBlood app.
ANSWER
JUMPS
SATURDAY, JUNE 26 VIRTUAL 5K RUN/WALK - The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club is holding a virtual 5K walk/run. The cost is $20 to register and people can e-mail Marie.Wilder@icloud.com to receive a registration form and waiver. The fee can be e-transferred to finance@bryerswood. com. Each participant receives a medallion. Proceeds go towards club’s efforts to purchase the former Camp Bryerswood from Girl Guides of Canada. ONGOING GREAT CANADIAN GIVING CHALLENGE - During the month of June, every dollar donated through www. bryerswoodyouthcamp.com will enter the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club into a draw to win $20,000 from Canada Helps. $10 equals 10 chances, $100 equals 100 chances. Proceeds go towards the purchase of the former Girl Guide camp on Texas Road in Amherstburg. Please consider donating at Bryerswoodyouthcamp.com between June 1 and June 30. Canada Helps will draw the winning ticket on July 1. ARTISTS NEEDED FOR LIBRARY MURAL - The Essex County Library invites local artists to submit public art proposals for the creation of an art
mural within the Amherstburg branch. A Carnegie library, it opened to the public in 1913 and remains one of many that were built in Ontario that still operates as a library today. History and community come together at the library! This project is made possible by a generous donation from the Amherstburg Community Foundation. Proposal entry deadline is June 11. For full details please visit www. essexcountylibrary.ca. “SHARE TO CARE” WALKATHON - Presented by the staff of Mark’s Work Warehouse in Amherstburg. Proceeds to Jumpstart. The amount of donations determine how far and to which Mark’s store in Windsor-Essex County assistant manager Annette Sak will walk to. Top goal of $4,650 will see her walk to the Mark’s in Leamington. From June 1-30, staff members at Mark’s will be collecting donations. Donations can also be made by e-transferring to amherstburg. jumpstart@gmail.com. People can also visit the “Share to Care Walkathon” page on Facebook. Tax receipts can be made to anyone who donates $20 or more and provides their full name, address and telephone number. 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. BOTTLE DONATIONS The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club is accepting empties of bottles. To donate bottles, contact Kim at yldkim@yahoo. com or 519-564-9699 or Tracy at
tcooper@gmail.com. People can also drop them off at 889 Bouffard Road in LaSalle. 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 226773-2200.
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 519-7766483, ext. 246.
To place your event in the Community Calendar please email: mail@rivertowntimes.com
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, June 2, 2021
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Check DAILY for vaccine appointment availability and eligibility at wevax.ca or 226-773-2200 Wed 2
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