River Town Times - May 19, 2021

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Wednesday, May 19, 2021

Former mayor Bill Gibb passes away

By Ron Giofu Flags were lowered to half-staff around Amherstburg after the passing of a former mayor.

Bill Gibb passed away at age 82 last Saturday. Gibb spend over three decades as an employee with Canada Post but also served his community in many ways on town council. Gibb served as a councillor, deputy reeve and mayor during his time on Amherstburg council, serving in the latter role from 1985 until his retirement from politics in 1997.

Tom Kilgallin, the retired town administrator who worked with Gibb for many years, noted the two were like brothers and developed a close relationship.

“I thought so much of Bill. He was a great guy,” said Kilgallin. “He was special.”

Kilgallin said Gibb loved Amherstburg and its residents, stating he was “one of our truly beloved mayors.”

“He truly loved our town and dedicated numerous years to making our town prosperous and inviting,” said Kilgallin.

Gibb also coached baseball, hockey and other minor sports and was recognized and respected by the youth in the community, Kilgallin added.

“Bill and (his wife) Chris raised their three children to be well received and respected in the community has well,” said Kilgallin. “As town administrator, I always found Bill showed strong leadership, showed love for his community as well as love for his family.”

Kilgallin said his friend will be missed but his memory will live on.

“He will be truly missed by all!” he said. “Rest in peace, Bill. You will long be remembered.”

Former councillor Diane Pouget said she grew up as friends with Gibb’s sister Barb and really got to know Gibb when General Amherst High School was lost in the early 1990’s in an accommodation battle.

Continued on Page 2

Libro Credit Union donated 3,000 bottles of Wolfhead Distillery’s hand sanitizer last Wednesday morning at the mass vaccination centre at the Libro Centre. From left: Community Emergency Management Co-ordinator/fire chief Bruce Montone, Mayor Aldo DiCarlo, Libro Amherstburg community manager Nika Laurin, site manager/manager of recreation services Rick Daly and Libro Belle River community manager Wassim Sarweh. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Libro Credit Union makes donation to help further public health

By Ron Giofu Those who get their shots at the mass vaccination centre at the Libro Centre got an added bonus thanks to an area financial institution.

Representatives from Libro Credit Union were at the mass vaccination centre last Wednesday morning where they dropped off a donation of 3,000 bottles of hand sanitizer. Nika Laurin, community manager at Libro Credit Union’s Amherstburg branch and Wassim Sarweh, community manager of the Belle River branch, dropped off the hand sanitizer, which was handed out to those leaving the building after receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Sarweh said all of Libro Credit Union’s branches in the Windsor-Essex County area decided to come together to do something to aid the vaccine rollout.

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“We collectively brought funds together from the six branches,” he stated.

The approximate dollar value of the donation is $6,500. The donation came amid National Nurses Week as well.

“Everyone came together and they wanted to support the community and support local small businesses as well,” added Laurin.

Laurin pointed out the credit union partnered with another Amherstburg business, Wolfhead Distillery, for the hand sanitizer and they are hopeful to continue that partnership.

The mass vaccination centre in Amherstburg was the first stop for Libro Credit Union but the representatives are hopeful for more.

Continued on Page 4

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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Gibb served 12 of his 21 years on council as Amherstburg’s mayor Continud from Page 1 “Bill worked with myself and Senator Whelan behind the scenes and we eventually got Amherst back.

They were amazed, that we raised over $10,000 in a week in legal fees and how much support we had. It was at that time, with his encouragement, I decided to run for council to thank our residents for saving Amherst,” she said.

Pouget noted that while she sometimes disagreed with Gibb while on council, she recalled Gibb was always respectful, always listened and was open to change and new ideas.

“I recall all our walks in the King’s Navy Yard Park so vividly. It seemed that once a week, when I did our banking, your brother would be taking his little dog out of his car to walk in the park. Bill would always call me over for ‘just a couple of minutes’ that turned into an hour each and every time. He always talked politics first (once a politician, always a politician) and how he got involved with the postal employees and then for our residents,” said Pouget. “Bill was always such a good mentor, because he led by example. He never bragged about his accomplishments but spoke about the team he could trust such as Tom Kilgallin, Mr. (Don) Potvin, Domenic Donofrio, Sharon Maitre, etc. He often spoke about gentlemen’s agreements and the generosity and hard work by so many of our former citizens, that molded Amherstburg as it is today.”

Pouget also pointed out Gibb’s love for his family, including wife Chris who was the “special love of his life.” She passed away in 2009. They shared memories of their time at the former St. Rose High School and Gibb would joke “we were so hard on the school that they had to tear it down.”

Gibb loved town parks and wanted them preserved and recalled the generosity of former mayors, council members and community figures such as H. Murray

Former mayor Bill Gibb (left) stands with former Minister of Agriculture/MP Eugene Whelan and retired town administrator Tom Kilgallin in this photo.

Bill Gibb delivers a mayoral address during the “Spring Fest” event in 1992. Gibb passed away last Saturday at the age of 82.

Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection

Smith, Jack Purdie and Russell Renaud.

Pouget said she told the family that “Bill is free from suffering and was greeted by Chris and your parents and so many others who have passed before him.”

Aldo DiCarlo, the town’s current mayor, said Gibb showed generosity to him when he first became mayor in 2014.

“He was really helpful to me at the start of my term,” said DiCarlo, “and he gave me useful advice. I

have used that advice during my term.”

DiCarlo said he went to high school with one of Gibb’s daughters but his first major interaction with him was when he became mayor. He noted the creation of King’s Navy Yard Park was just one of Gibb’s accomplishments.

“Bill had quite a few years in public service. He was a positive leader,” said DiCarlo. “He brought positive change and really helped Amherstburg move forward.”

The town sends its condolences to Gibb’s family and friends, he added.

While noting “it’s a sad loss for the town,” DiCarlo believed Gibb will be remembered fondly, noting Gibb was very engaged in what was happening in town.

“That’s what people like in a small municipality,” he said.

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Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 3

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Rezoning proposal for lands on Boblo draws complaints

By Ron Giofu

A rezoning request for lands on Boblo Island has drawn some concerns and complaints from some of the nearby residents.

The matter was discussed as part of an hour-long public meeting held just prior to Amherstburg town A proposed rezoning of property on Boblo Island was the subject of an hour-long public meeting May 10 in which several residents voiced concerns. The screenshot, posted by Amico vice president of development Cindy Prince, shows the north end of the island with the council’s regular meeting. According to a report property in question being the large open space in the bottom right. Screenshot from manager of planning services Frank Garardo, The Boblo Island Homeowners Association has not submitted any comments the town is in receipt of an application for zoning bylaw amendments from on the matter, though Prince acknowledged that residents can come forth Boblo Developments Inc. individually without agreeing with the association. She added they have “been Garardo’s report notes the subject lands affected by the proposed amendment extremely clear” about their intentions when it comes to developing the island. are on the north end of the island and are designed “Recreational Special Policy Prince continued by stating 40 per cent of the island will be open space when Area 6” in the town’s Official Plan. the island is fully completed.

The effect of the zoning bylaw amendment, located on the west side of the Councillor Michael Prue had “a number of questions” and disputed some of island, will change the lands in question from “Recreational (RE)” zone to a Prince’s statements. Among his statements related to promotional materials and “Resort Residential/Resort Commercial (RR/RC)” zone, the report added. the inclusion of a spa. The town councillor wondered where that was going, but “The proposed Amendment to the Zoning By-law is in conformity with the Prince said the subject property hasn’t been shown as anything but residential. policies in the Official Plan, which permit residential/commercial uses on the Prue also wondered if the restrictive covenants take away any rights as island. The lands are designated Special Policy Area 6, Recreational Development Canadian citizens to make complaints or voice concerns. He said the Charter of in the Town’s Official Plan,” Garardo stated in his report.

Rights and Freedoms allow people the right to speak. Prince said her intention The total area subject to the proposed rezoning is about two acres, he was to show the developer has never hid its intention to develop the island and said, adding that an application for the interior part of the Boblo north end residents agreed they would not object by not crossing out that section in the development has been deferred by the applicant at this time. covenant.

Boblo resident Ken Wheeldon said he lives across from the lands in question “It’s something they willingly agreed to,” she said. and voiced concerns with the application. He noted he moved to the island in Prue and Prince also discussed the composition of the Boblo Island Homeowners 2011.

Association and how its board of directors is selected.

“Those lots have been empty long before I got here and the view and the nature made this an obvious choice for me to select as a home,” said Wheeldon.

Wheeldon said it was confusing that the land was zoned recreational yet no OPEN recreation has taken place on it.

“Why has it taken so long to come to light that nothing could be built on a TUESDAY recreational property in the first place?” he asked.

TO SUNDAY Wheeldon said his “strongest objection” is any possibility of multiple dwellings.

CLOSED “To me, that says condos, that says row housing,” he said.

MONDAY’S Serving the Community Since 1970 Traffic concerns, wildlife concerns and jeopardy of the “quiet enjoyment” that is currently experienced by residents were also voiced by Wheeldon.

“The multiple dwelling issue is just totally unacceptable. I can’t see that ever being good for anybody except for maximizing the footprint on the real estate and doing it that way,” he said.

Prices in effect Thursday, May 20th to Wednesday, May 26th, 2021 Clerk Paula Parker read several written submissions into the record with Brenners quality of life, access to a nature area and pond, unobstructed views of the water, traffic, hidden driveways and other issues being voiced. Others believed not enough information has been put forth to make an informed decision. per 6lb. box Mayor Aldo DiCarlo asked for confirmation about the environmental Centre Cut protection matters, believing that wasn’t part of the request before council, but acknowledged that Parker noted that a request was made to read the comments lb into the record anyway.

Cindy Prince, vice president of development with Amico, said they agree Parmigiano Reggiano with Garardo’s comments that the request conforms with the provincial policy statement and Official Plan. ea (aged 12 months) Prince noted the developers have given up “a significant amount of 1kg. piece (22lb.) development opportunities” on the island to ensure there are a lot of open space Romano’s and “Amico believes residential use is the most appropriate use for the lands” in question. There are no plans for any further apartments or condo buildings at this time, she noted. ea The town has rezoned other lands nearby, and the request seems to be in line (approx. 6 oz. each) with past direction council has taken.

Seasoned B.B.Q. Ready Promotional material and copies of the master plans show the subject land divided into lots and sold as residential.

“This is the promotional materils the residents would have received when per 4lb. tray purchasing lots on Boblo,” she said.

There was no intent to use the lots in question as recreational in the longer term, Prince further stated.

There is documentation registered on title and form part of each landowner’s acquisition package, she added. The developer knows things are going to change and she said that information has been passed onto residents. A restrictive covenant states Amico “has the right to bring applications of this type forward and, I would suggest to you, has gone to some length to ensure every purchaser and property owner is aware we are retaining our development rights, that Ethnic Market Making a things could very well change over time, and we’ll accommodate the desires of WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO LIMIT QUANTITIES World of Difference the people as best as we can but at the end of the day, this is a development and Mon Closed, Tues 8:30-5, Wed 8:30-5, Thurs 8:30-5, Fri 8:30-5, Sat 8:30-4, Sun 8:30-3 it’s going to continue to evolve.”

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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Libro Credit Union makes donation of hand sanitizer

Relieved to finally get the “jab” A few weeks ago, I vented, whined, and voiced my frustration and impatience with not being able to get my COVID-19 vaccination to that point.

I saw people post their “vaccine selfies” to social media, some people who I thought looked younger than me, and wondered where my turn was. I also know others who are roughly the same age as me and I know they somehow got a shot weeks, if not months, before I did and wondered if they have pre-existing conditions I wasn’t aware of.

However, a load was lifted off my shoulders late last Tuesday afternoon when I felt a very slight poke of a needle going into my right deltoid. I was Ron Giofu delighted when I heard appointments were being taken in the 40-and-over age group and even more happy when my appointment was actually booked but when the shot was actually administered, it was a relief.

I opted to go to the Amherstburg Family Health Team and the staff there couldn’t have been more professional, courteous and friendly. I thank them for administering the shot and going over everything with me including potential side effects and what to do in case something happened. I should also point out I have heard similar positive things about the mass vaccination clinic at the Libro Centre.

As it turned out, aside from some of the expected soreness in my shoulder for a few days after the shot, nothing much really happened in my case. I know some other people have had side effects but nothing major, just stuff like the chills and other minor things that went away after a few days.

The process was quick and easy, as I was out of there in 20-25 minutes or so. And aside from the slight poke and minor shoulder soreness afterward, the pain was practically non-existent. In fact, I’ve had more pain when I get a paper cut.

In the days since, I have not had an aorta clogged with a microchip, I have not transmitted or received radio waves and I haven’t been followed by mysterious aircraft or anything else. No weird events have happened nor do I expect them to.

I’m certain others who have received one of the vaccines can report the same, just in case anyone was wondering.

I’m not out in the public as much as I normally am due to the pandemic most of my meetings in the last 14 months have been virtual. Aside from a few times last year when I was one of the few allowed inside town hall to watch council members – all separated by plexiglass – do their thing before they went back to virtual meetings, everything has been in front of a computer screen.

That said, there are still times when I have to go out and actually cover things and can’t watch it online. It’s actually nice to take pictures instead of screenshots, the latter being something that has become necessary in these strange times, but it still means I am out and about in public. That means getting “the jab” is important to me as I would rather do what I can to hopefully avoid getting this virus and spreading it to others.

I await when I can get my second dose, likely within 16 weeks (or 15 weeks now, since the shot was last week). The sooner we can return to normal, or as close to normal as we can get, the better. In the meantime, I’ll keep wearing my mask in public and put up with my glasses fogging up and the elastic from the mask getting twisted around the arms of my glasses. I’ll also wash my hands regularly, keep social distancing, avoid large gatherings and practicing the other public health measures.

We must get out of this pandemic somehow and if people who are much smarter than me are giving me instructions on how to stay safe, I’ll keep listening and await the day when all of this is behind us.

JUST A THOUGHT

Continued from Page 1 Sarweh stated that Libro Credit Union is “in talks” with officials at the mass vaccination centre at the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Complex in Leamington about doing a similar hand sanitizer there and also hope to spread it to other sites as well.

Among the officials from the Town of Amherstburg that were on hand accepting the donation last Wednesday morning were Community Emergency Management Co-ordinator (CEMC)/fire chief Bruce Montone, site manager/manager of recreation services Rick Daly and Mayor Aldo DiCarlo.

DiCarlo pointed out the 10,000th vaccination was administered at the mass vaccination centre within the Libro Centre the day before and said he was excited and proud of that milestone. He also offered thanks to both Libro Credit Union and Wolfhead Distillery for the donation that their partnership produced.

“We’re very appreciative of the incredible donation,” he said.

The mass vaccination centre in Amherstburg continues to receive good reviews, the mayor added.

“On the vaccination centre in general, I’ve heard nothing but positive feedback about how effective it is, about how friendly everyone is and how helpful the staff are,” said DiCarlo. “It’s another proud moment for Amherstburg!”

Those eligible to book an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine at any of the six mass vaccination centres – including the Libro Centre in Amherstburg – can do so at www.wevax.ca or by calling 226-773-2200.

Memories of Yesterday...

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

In 1917, Brunner, Mond Canada Limited built the first soda ash production plant of its kind in Canada on the riverfront above town. This company brought industrial and economic development to Amherstburg for many years, later becoming Allied Chemical then General Chemical. Pictured here is a group of electricians working at Brunner Mond in the early days, c.1918-20.

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Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 5

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WECHU asks for info from residents vaccinated outside of Ontario

By RTT Staff The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is asking the public for information if they have been vaccinated against COVID-19 outside of Ontario.

WECHU states that its records indicate that, as of Friday morning, 55.6 per cent of Windsor-Essex residents 18 years and older have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. While the health unit calls that number “encouraging,” officials add it does not reflect those residents who have received their vaccine outside of Ontario.

According to WECHU CEO Theresa Marentette: “Since the beginning of the vaccination effort, a number of essential workers, travellers, and other current Windsor-Essex residents were vaccinated elsewhere and are not included in our counts. Documentation systems differ from province to province and country to country, so the health unit is looking for help from these residents to improve our understanding of current residents who have received one or two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.”

The WECHU has created a brief questionnaire and is requesting those who received their vaccine outside of Ontario to visit their website to contribute to a more accurate representation of local COVID-19 vaccination coverage. Those eligible to complete the questionnaire are Windsor-Essex residents that have received their COVID-19 vaccine in Michigan, another state in the U.S., another province in Canada, or another country outside of North America.

Completion of the questionnaire does not register a person for a second dose if the person has received their first dose elsewhere, the health unit added in a press release.

The questionnaire can be accessed at www.wechu. org/cv/vaccine.

Responses are anonymous and confidential. For any questions about the questionnaire, contact WECHU at 519-258-2146 ext. 1285.

The Health Unit also announced last Wednesday that adults 30 years and older, born in 1991 or earlier, in non-hot spot postal codes and the second group of essential workers who cannot work from home were eligible to book vaccine appointments.

The second group is being defined as essential and critical retail workers (including grocery, foodbank and non-clinical pharmacy workers, Service Ontario workers, Service Canada and Passport Canada workers, wholesalers and general goods, restaurant workers, LCBO); workers in manufacturing industries directly involved in supporting the COVID19 response, construction including infrastructure, and other essential businesses and services where facilities are at

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The mass vaccination centre at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg reached a milestone on Tuesday when it recorded the 10,000th vaccination at the site. Julie Maure received the vaccination from RN Tyson Demers. Submitted photo

heightened risk for COVID-19 outbreaks and spread; social workers and other social services staff providing in-person client services (including youth justice workers, OW and ODSP case workers); courts and justice system workers (including probation and parole workers); transportation, warehousing and distribution workers (including public transit workers, taxi drivers, truck drivers supporting essential services, marine and rail cargo and maintenance, highway maintenance); electricity (including workers employed in system operations, generation, transmission, distribution and storage); and communications infrastructure workers (including cellular, satellite, landline, internet, public safety radio).

The list also includes water and wastewater management workers; financial services workers (bank branch staff); veterinarians and veterinary teams; waste management workers; oil and petroleum workers (including those working in petroleum refineries; those involved in the storage, transmission and distribution of crude oil and petroleum products and those needed for the retail sale of fuel); natural gas and propane gas workers (including those working in the compression, storage, transmission and distribution of natural gas and propane); mine workers (including those needed to ensure the continued operation of active mines) and uranium processing workers (those working in the refining and conversion of uranium, and fabrication of fuel for nuclear power plants).

The Pfizer BioNTech or Moderna vaccines are being administered at the targeted vaccination clinics and appointments are required with no walk-ins permit-

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ted. All appointments at targeted COVID-19 vaccination clinics are currently for first doses only and must be scheduled through the online booking system or by calling the vaccination booking call centre at 226-7732200.

WECHU states everyone that schedules an appointment will be asked to attest that they meet the current eligibility criteria to book an appointment. They will also be asked to bring a health card or a governmentissued photo ID (if they do not have a health card) to confirm their appointment. Examples of acceptable government-issued photo ID include a driver’s license, a passport, a Status Card, or other provincial health card.

The province announced Monday morning as of Tuesday, individuals aged 18 and over in 2021 across Ontario were eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccine appointment through the provincial booking system and call centre, or directly through public health units that use their own booking system.

Individuals who are 17 years old and are turning 18 in 2021 will also be eligible to book their COVID-19 vaccination appointment only for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. The Pfizer vaccine is currently the only COVID-19 vaccine that has been authorized by Health Canada for use in youth aged 12 and over. The provincial booking system will note which clinics are not offering vaccines for those who are 17 years old.

For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, please visit www.wevax.ca or subscribe to receive email updates from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit about COVID-19 vaccines.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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Police, K-9 unit track down alleged suspect in field

Amherstburg firefighters responded to a report of a barn fire last Friday morning. The fire was small and caused minor damage, with the fire department estimating it at $500.

RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Barn fire causes about $500 in damage, says fire department

By Ron Giofu A small barn fire caused slight damage last Friday morning.

The Amherstburg Fire Department responded to a call on Concession 4 North for the fire, but assistant deputy chief Ron Meloche stated it was in a small building attached to a larger barn. He said the homeowner got most of the fire extinguished prior to the arrival of fire crews with firefighters putting out “hot spots” and doing other labour.

Fire crews were on scene for roughly 45 minutes, he said. The fire did not spread into the other building.

Meloche said the fire was accidental and estimated the damage at about $500.

“Two residents were treated by EMS for smoke inhalation but not transported to hospital,” Meloche added.

Two stations were called out due to the nature of the call, but firefighters had to do little actual firefighting, Meloche stated.

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The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment has laid several charges against a Windsor man in a case that involved a reported stolen motorcycle.

According to police, officers were called to the area of County Road 11 (Walker Road) and Alma St. last Tuesday around 10:06 p.m. regarding a suspicious person complaint.

The caller advised that it appeared a motorcycle had been left in a driveway near a ditch in the area and a suspect was viewed walking on the northwest side of the ditch.

Upon arrival, police located the motorcycle along the side of the road and discovered it has been stolen out of Windsor.

The Windsor police K-9 unit was called in and the alleged suspect was tracked into a nearby field where he was subsequently arrested.

Police say the accused, a 31-year-old Windsor man, was charged with possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, failing to comply with a probation order and possession of a schedule one substance for the purposes of trafficking.

Thefts

A vehicle was reported stolen May 8 from the 6000 block of County Road 10 (Middle Side Road). Police say a 2016 Black Ram truck was stolen. The owner was planning to go turkey hunting and had two 12-gauge shotguns in the vehicle. The call came in around 3:23 a.m. that day.

•Police also state a 2002 white Ford Escape was reported stolen from a residence May 8. The owner tracked the vehicle using Ford Sync, police add, and it was subsequently located on Sunnyside Blvd. in LaSalle. The accused, a 26-year-old woman with no fixed address, was arrested by the LaSalle Police Service. The vehicle was recovered.

•License plates were stolen out of a vehicle parked in a parking lot in the 100 block of Sandwich St. S. Ontario plates CSPR 219 were taken and people are asked to contact the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment if they are spotted. Police say the vehicle was unlocked.

Accidents

An accident at the intersection of Brock St. and Richmond St. May 8 resulted in a driver being charged with careless driving. According to police, one vehicle was struck from behind by another vehicle. The driver charged is a 20-year-old male from Amherstburg.

•There were several other incidents of motorists striking deer over the past week.

Drivers are advised to drive with caution and be wary of the fact deer often move in groups.

—All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment

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Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 7

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Town council to involve public in policing review when matter returns next year

By Ron Giofu

It was a report that came a year early, but town council made it clear that when it returns, it will be one that requires public input.

Council members went into an in-camera session near the end of the May 10 meeting and when they returned into public session, the report out from clerk Paula Parker indicated that, based on discussions, “council should now discuss a way forward with the policing contract” with Windsor. The contract is to be reviewed every five years.

Councillor Patricia Simone moved that council request a report in regards of the future of the contract, with that report to contain information on costs regarding re-establishing a municipal force in Amherstburg versus continuing with the Windsor Police Service.

However, based on information that came out later in the public debate, town council tabled the matter until March 2022.

Council did debate Simone’s motion prior to the matter being tabled, with Councillor Peter Courtney stating the public should let council members know what they have thought of policing in Amherstburg over the last three years.

“Yes, there were some concerns whether they are fact or fiction, but to open it up to the public to let them know this is coming up and their participation is important,” said Courtney.

CAO John Miceli indicated any future report would include methodology for public feedback as well as costing information “so that council is fully aware” and that council have information it needs to make a decision.

Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche said he had no problem getting a report from administration on the matter.

“I have a problem with the way it seems to be worded that we are not content with the current contract.

The policing contract with Windsor will be the subject of debate next year, though Amherstburg town council got a head start on discussions at the May 10 meeting.

There should be a message that this is nothing more than due diligence at the end of this coming term of the contract and nothing more,” said Meloche. “For us to head down this road seems to send a message that we’re not satisfied with the policing as it is. I’ll be quite vocal right now and say that I am and that many people are.”

Meloche added he fears the motion put forth by Simone “might get misinterpreted as well,” though he welcomes a report from Miceli. He acknowledged that he and Mayor Aldo DiCarlo were involved with the town’s initial contract with Windsor.

Courtney alluded to the 3-2 vote to contract out policing services to Windsor. In that 2018 vote, voting in favour were DiCarlo, Meloche and then-Councillor Rick Fryer with then-councillors Joan Courtney and Jason Lavigne being opposed. Diane Pouget and Bart DiPasquale, a councillor and the deputy mayor on the previous council, declared a conflict of interest.

“Three people made a decision,” Courtney told Meloche at the May 10 meeting. “Not to take away from anybody, it was a hard decision, I get that, but

only three made the whole decision on the fate of policing in the Town of Amherstburg moving forward.”

Courtney emphasized he wanted public feedback on the matter going forward.

Councillor Michael Prue said he wanted timeframes attached to the motion and indicated a special meeting could be had on the matter with the policing issue being the only issue discussed.

“I want the public to have some input and I look forward to the report and I look forward to the people of the town,” said Prue.

Prue said there are those who “still hold strong views on this issue even after all this time but no one said being on council this term was going to be easy.”

Simone said her motion wasn’t to suggest the town isn’t happy with the Windsor Police Service, it was “just to review all of our options and avenues. That was the main reason for the motion.”

At that point, Miceli acknowledged publicly that the issue was brought to council earlier than it should have been.

“I brought this issue way too soon,” he said. “It’s actually a year in advance.”

Miceli apologized and said “in my haste, I had June 30, 2021 in my mind and it’s not June 30, 2021. It’s June 30, 2022. I’m sorry.”

McArthur said a “slight misstep” can be forgiven, but pointed out public consultation is always ongoing.

“We saw that with the parks. That report hasn’t come back yet but that hasn’t stopped the public consultation,” said McArthur.

McArthur added just by mentioning the policing issue at the May 10 meeting, it would “kickstart” public consultation on that matter as well.

“Anybody out there, if you haven’t noticed anything with the policing, let us know. If you have a beef with the policing, let us know,” he said. “All of our e-mail inboxes and phones are always on and open.”

8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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Christ Anglican Church assisted several area charities with necessary women’s supplies as part of a Mother’s Day fundraiser organized by Lillian Scorrar-Olsen. Her son Hudson sits among some of the donations that were brought in as part of the month-long fundraiser. Submitted photo

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Local church helps out with donations of products to assist women

By Ron Giofu An Amherstburg church has done what it can to assist those in need at women’s shelters and other non-profit organizations.

Christ Anglican Church made donations to area women’s shelters, something that was the idea of parishioner Lillian Scorrar-Olsen. Scorrar-Olsen also spread the word about the fundraiser through Facebook.

“For my first Mother’s Day, I asked for help collecting items such as tampons, pads, baby diapers and baby supplies to give to women’s shelters,” she said. “I wanted to be able to do something so what better way to celebrate my first Mother’s Day than to give back to those who need help.”

Scorrar-Olsen asked Christ Anglican Church in Amherstburg, including many of its fellow parishioners such as Cecile Browning, who looks after social projects, as well as family members Hana Eve Scorrar, Cheryl Scorrar, and her mother Cheryl Yako to help her.

“I wanted to give back to others especially during these hard times,” she said Scorrar-Olsen came up with the idea shortly after having her son Hudson. She had trouble breastfeeding at first and putting him on formula opened her eyes as to costs. She noted on social media “formula was really expensive along with all of the other necessities and realized just how privileged I was. I didn’t have to worry about how I was going to feed him, or how I was going to provide shelter or the basics let alone all of the luxury items.” She also told the RTT that she found the prices “astronomical” and that it can be difficult for those not as fortunate as her to provide for their children.

Between the formula itself and the other necessary supplies, “it adds up.” She added if the mother is breastfeeding but not getting the proper nutrition, it has an impact as well.

The church collected 16 large containers of formula, four pouches of baby food, seven boxes of pablum, nine baby bottles, three diapers creams, 43 baby wipes and 1,868 diapers, 1,002 tampons (individual), 1,394 pads (individual), 65 poise pads (individual) and 282 panty liners (individual).

Donations were distributed to the Teen Health centre, Welcome Centre, Street Help, the Amherstburg Food Bank and the St. John’s Anglican Food Cupboard.

Scorrar-Olsen noted the church is meeting virtually and word about the donation drive took place on social media. She said it lasted about one month and her mother’s home was the hub where all donations were dropped off at. She added she also collected $600 and that was used to purchase items.

The drive not only involved church members, but family members in Vancouver, other churches in the deanery, people from outside the church in the local area, churches in London and one as far as Tennessee. Scorrar-Olsen credits her home church for helping to get the word out.

“I asked Christ Church to help me and they totally came through,” she said.

www.rivertowntimes.com

Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 9

Open Air Weekends to be delayed thanks to extension of stay-at-home order

By Ron Giofu The extension of the province’s stay-at-home order means the start of this year’s Open Air Weekends has been delayed.

The town made the announcement via social media last Friday afternoon.

The Open Air Weekends were supposed to start the weekend of May 22-24, but that has been pushed back until the stay-at-home order has been lifted. The province announced last week it will run until at least June 2, about 14 days longer than the original May 20 target.

“The extension to the stay-at-home order will result in a delay to Open Air Weekends. We look forward to planning for and executing the Open Air program, when it is safe to do so. Please continue to be vigilant and we will get through this together!” the town’s official Twitter page stated.

The Ontario government stated with the new, more contagious variants continuing to pose “significant risks,” the stay-at-home order has been extended. The province states public health and workplace safety measures under the provincewide emergency brake will also remain in effect.

During this time, the government states it will prepare to administer the Pfizer vaccine to youth between the ages of 12-17, beginning the week May 31.

“While we are seeing positive trends as a result of the public health measures put in place, we cannot afford to let up yet,” said Premier Doug Ford in a news release. “We must stay vigilant to ensure our ICU numbers stay down and our hospital capacity is protected.

If we stay the course for the next two weeks, and continue vaccinating record number of Ontarians every day, we can begin looking forward to July and August and having the summer that everyone deserves.”

The province says during the week of May 2-8, the provincial cases rate decreased by 14.8 per cent, with the positivity rate also decreasing to 7.7 per cent com-

The provincial government extended the stay-at-home order until at least June 2, they announced last week.

Province of Ontario graphic

pared to 8.6 per cent the previous week. From May 5-12, the number of patients with COVID-related critical illness in intensive care decreased from 877 to 776.

The province states despite improvements, key indicators remain high and more time is required before the order can be lifted. From May 3-9, the provincial cases rate remained very high at 134.9 cases per 100,000 people, and per cent positivity was above the high alert threshold of 2.5 per cent. Hospitalization and ICU admissions also remain too high and well above the peak of wave two.

“While the latest data shows that public health measures are having an impact, the situation in our hospitals remains precarious and variants continue to pose a significant risk,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Experience from other jurisdictions shows that driving transmission to very low levels is needed in order to end the third wave.

We must stay the course as we continue to quickly vaccinate more Ontarians, including our children and youth.”

In addition, the Ontario government states all pub-

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licly funded and private elementary and secondary schools in the province will continue to operate under teacher-led remote learning. Data is to be assessed on an ongoing basis and medical experts, including the Chief Medical Officer of Health, and other health officials will be consulted to determine if it may be safe to resume in-person learning.

Beginning the week of May 31, youth in Ontario between 12 and 17 years of age and their family members who have not received a vaccine will be eligible to book an appointment to receive their first dose of the Pfizer vaccine, including at special dedicated youth and family clinics throughout the weeks of June 14 and 21.

The province states it will work with public health units to offer both doses of vaccine to youth aged 12 to 17 by the end of August, in collaboration with school boards and other partners. The rollout will be informed by the work of the Children’s COVID-19 Vaccine Table and will provide access to multiple channels to support vaccinating this group, including mass vaccination clinics, community or school pop-ups, and pharmacies.

“The spread of COVID-19 continues to pose a significant threat to our health care system and the well-being of Ontarians,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones.

“While we have made great strides, extending the Stay-at-Home order is essential to protect our communities, reduce the spread of the virus and save lives.”

“Despite the progress we have made in recent weeks in our fight against this virus, we all must remain vigilant, as we are not yet at the point where we can safely exit the Stay-at-Home Order, as our health system remains under significant strain,” added Dr. David Williams, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “By continuing to strictly follow all measures, we can further reduce transmission of the virus, safeguard hospital and public health capacity, and save lives.”

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10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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“Luncheon with the Mayors” highlights Community Living Essex County’s initiatives

By Ron Giofu Community Living Essex County (CLEC) welcomed local political figures and others to a virtual event showing what the not-for-profit agency does for those with intellectual disabilities.

“Luncheon with the Mayors” was presented for the 15th time last Friday afternoon, with it being the first time the agency had to do it virtually. The popular event welcomes not just mayors, but others from around the community, to listen to what CLEC offers.

Tony DeSantis, manager of community relations and resource development with CLEC, said roughly 75 people registered from across Essex County for the event. In addition to local mayors and deputy mayors, there were municipal councillors and members of administration also in attendance virtually.

Essex MP Chris Lewis and Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk also joined in on the call.

“As like most of us, we are getting very familiar with Zoom and MS Teams in the world we live in,” said DeSantis, noting the Jingle Bell Run as well as last year’s and this year’s Ruthven Apple Festival have also gone to a virtual format.

Sue Desjarlais, CLEC’s 1st vice president, said they missed holding the event last year but were glad to return in 2021. She said it gives the agency a chance to bring together a cross-section of the community to see what it offers.

Desjarlais added the agency will celebrate 60 years this year and that the support of the community is appreciated.

Karen Bolger, executive director with Community Living Essex County, added the agency is “very proud” to showcase the work it does for people it supports and their families.

“Community Living Essex County has a very strong partnership with the people we support and their families,” she said.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has done much

A portion of the crowd that registered virtually for last week’s “Luncheon with the Mayors” is pictured here. The event was presented by Community Living Essex County as a way to showcase the agency’s programs. Community Living Essex County image

more than just cause live events to go virtual, as it has had a tremendous impact on supports offered. While some had to be cancelled, others shifted to an online format. Connecting people supported with loved ones had to shift online due to the pandemic “which has been very difficult for people we support and their families.”

“It goes without saying COVID-19 has changed things in the blink of an eye,” she said.

A lot of work began over a year ago and still continues to counteract effects of the pandemic and Bolger stated employees deserve a lot of credit.

“Our employees have shown incredible dedication to the people we support,” said Bolger.

Community Living Essex County executive director Karen Bolger speaks as part of a slideshow as part of Luncheon with the Mayors.

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Fundraising efforts had to shift as well, including a sold-out holiday raffle. DeSantis noted there is a special raffle coming shortly to celebrate the 60th anniversary.

CLEC also helped other agencies by sharing experiences and services.

Groups under CLEC’s umbrella were also highlighted, including New Day, a group of self-advocates who work on behalf of those of people with intellectual disabilities.

“New Day is thankful for the partnership it has with Community Living Essex County,” said chair Brianne Taggart. “No matter what life throws at us, we persevere.”

The work of Ensemble was also highlighted, as that group works with and advocates for parents and families of those with intellectual disabilities. Parent consultant Kelly Runnalls also noted times have been difficult during the pandemic but she believed the ongoing vaccine rollout is a sign of hope. Runnalls also believed that families could come out of the pandemic stronger than ever.

Shelbey Pillon, manager of Community Living supports, spoke about Career Compass, the agency’s employment service program. She said several with intellectual disabilities were among the many across the region that were laid off from jobs due to the pandemic and they have been trained when they got back to work. She added the Greater Essex County District School Board and Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board have been worked so CLEC can work with students with intellectual disabilities in order to help them reach their goals.

Kingsville Mayor and Deputy Warden Nelson Santos said the services provided by CLEC are “very important and vital” “As a community as a whole, we’re very thankful,” he said.

Warden Gary McNamara, also the mayor of Tecumseh, said CLEC marking six decades of service is a proud achievement and it shines a bright light on the services offered.

“You have many reasons to celebrate what you have accomplished,” said McNamara. “The way Community Living Essex County has adapted to the pandemic has been impressive.”

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Brianne Taggart, chair of New Day, spoke at CLEC’s Luncheon with the Mayors. Taggart and her colleagues spoke how their group selfadvocates for people with intellectual disabilities. Screenshot

Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 11

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Parks committee gets feedback on uses for Jack Purdie and Centennial Parks

By Ron Giofu It has yet to be decided by town council what the futures of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park or Jack Purdie Park are, but the town’s parks and recreation advisory committee got some ideas last week.

Committee members heard from delegates – one speaking on each park – during last Wednesday’s virtual parks committee meeting. John Purdie addressed the committee regarding the park named for his father Jack. Council had previously discussed the possibility of a “hybrid option” for the park, with a portion sold for housing with the funds being used for refurbishing the remainder.

“We were massively shocked when the proposal came before council to sell Jack Purdie Park,” said Purdie. “We appreciate the opportunity to present some of our thoughts.”

Purdie recommended people talk to others from Jack Purdie’s era about who he was and what he meant to the town. Plans for the park originally included a soccer field, softball diamond, volleyball pits, picnic shelter, comfort station, game areas and parking.

Phase I was to have been started in 1997, according to research Purdie brought before the committee.

Phase II was supposed to start in the spring of 1998, he added.

“Eliminating our parks and greenspaces is a horrible and ill-advised option on so many levels,” said Purdie. “The parks master plan, prepared by Monteith & Brown, states our parks are a defining feature of our town and vital to the quality of life.

The report further states the community’s needs are shifting and our parks need to keep pace.”

Purdie added the report further states the need to involve residents in decision-making and says Amherstburg must demonstrate accountability by holding high standards in park design, maintenance, renewal and customer service. He said selling parkland may provide a one-time influx of cash, but balancing the town’s budget wasn’t predicated on any sale.

Phase I and II of Jack Purdie Park was underfunded, he said, the Monteith and Brown report showed poorly maintained and missing amenities is a primary reason for lack of use.

Future uses he suggested could include a pump track like has been done in Windsor.

Purdie said he believed “traditional” uses have been entertained by the committee and council, adding older people need activities and places where younger people can have physical activity.

“I’m just asking the committee not to get rid of the park,” said Purdie.

Councillor Don McArthur said it was never council’s intention to sell the park.

“It’s not in the motion to sell the park. It’s to look at various options for the park, to come back with it being a full sports park to, yes you are correct, to developing a small portion and using the proceeds to develop the balance of the parkland and to engage the public,” said McArthur. “Never, ever did we suggest selling the whole park or taking the name ‘Purdie’ off the park. That was never part of the discussion, at all.”

Heidi Baillargeon, the town’s director of community and protective services, said she had a meeting last Friday with the consultants from Bezaire & Associates and from there, to present the options given to the

Greg Scott addresses the parks and recreation advisory committee last Wednesday evening. Scott was presenting several ideas for the remaining 12 acres of the Centennial Park site that he came up with in consultation with others. Screenshot

public at a future meeting. She said the committee and the public will be involved in the process.

“That will all be presented in a public forum,” she said.

McArthur said the timing was supposed to be at the end of April or early May and wanted an updated timeline.

“I’m reviewing them Friday so I would like some time to review them and digest them as there was more than one concept plan they were asked to do,” said Baillargeon. “In terms of reviewing them, my plan is to hopefully get them out there in the next month or two.”

Greg Scott spoke to the committee regarding Centennial Park, adding he was speaking as a private citizen and that he did collaborate with others on his proposal. He said he has 25 years of experience in the areas of recreation and sport.

“I believe that all areas of recreation spaces are valuable and important in Amherstburg,” he said.

Scott said the steeplechase pit could be removed as it is no longer taught or used, but would like to see the eight-lane track rebuilt as he believed it would be used by the community, including nearby schools. He said the small concession stand/locker room building could be torn down and the high jump pit could also be removed.

A shot put pad could be refurbished and he envisioned the pole vault boxes at either end of the long jump pits could be removed as it’s no longer taught.

“Those could be removed for safety purposes for the general public,” he added.

The football field could still be used with the berms utilized as natural seating areas.

Other ideas put forth by Scott included adjusting fencing, building new tennis courts and basketball courts, converting the former ACS building into a public washroom facility or building a public washroom facility at the north end of the parking lot, create a skateboard park or playground in the northwest corner of the park and keeping Russell Renaud Hill.

Scott believed the Libro Centre is not a feasible alternative for many community members or students.

McArthur said the public board has roughed in an area for a future track, should another group come up with the funding, in their plans for the new public high school and asked Scott why his idea is better than that. McArthur believed a track is needed in that area.

“In my opinion, you already have the layout for the track there and you already have the space. To my knowledge, the only potential for a track at the new school would be for something that is six lanes, so obviously not as big as it currently exists,” said Scott.

Scott added the new track complex in Leamington saw it take over five years to complete, even with a corporate sponsor. McArthur said he and Councillor Patricia Simone met with public school board officials over a track and difficulties and cost were referenced in Leamington.

“To get them to work with us would be a difficult sell,” said McArthur, noting cost and maintenance. “I don’t think that should prevent us from building a track in central Amherstburg but that is expensive.”

Committee chair Pat Catton noted there are differences in types of tracks, and said there are cost differences full athletic tracks to more of a walking track is “astronomical.”

The committee also discussed correspondence from former councillor and committee member Diane Pouget, who had a series of questions she wants answers. Pouget questioned the committee’s ability to tour the H. Murray Smith Centennial Park when it visited other parks as well of its ability to provide recommendations as it did for the other parks, whether the committee endorsed the removal of amenities from Centennial Park to the Libro Centre, whether the committee voted to change the zoning of Jack Purdie Park to provide housing instead of four baseball diamonds, whether the committee recommended the rezoning of the H. Murray Smith Centennial Park for housing and whether the committee supported keeping it as a park. The committee received the questions, but it was recommended that the questions be put on town council’s agenda to get answers.

12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 13

www.rivertowntimes.com

William James Gibb

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Bill on May 13, 2021, at home on the family farm and surrounded by the love of his family at the age of 60 years. Beloved husband of Marianne (Dufour) for over 42 years. Cherished son of Dorothy Mailloux and the late Eugene Mailloux. Loving father of Josh (Ciara) and Stephanie (Craig) Crawford. Adored Grandpa of Julia, Rayah, Luke and Ty. Brother of Barbara (late Wayne), Betty (Gene) and Tom (Marita). Brother-in-law of Rick (Nadja). Brother-in-law of Shelley ( Judge). He will also be missed by Nieces, Nephews, extended Family and lifelong Friends.

Bill enjoyed farm life with his family. Having farmed alongside his Father, then continuing the tradition with his Son. Bill was very active in the farming community Locally, Provincially and Federally.

He loved spending time with his family seeing the smiling faces of his Grandchildren.

At Bill’s request, cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of Bill’s life at a later date when family and friends can all gather together on the family farm. Arrangements entrusted to Kendrick Funeral Home, Kingsville.

If you wish, memorial donations would be appreciated to Hospice of Windsor-Essex County, Windsor Essex County Cancer Centre Foundation or VON Windsor-Essex County.

Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.Kendrickfuneralhome.com

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November 30, 1942 – May 1, 2021 Retired Warrant Officer – CD2 with the Canadian Forces, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 at Erie Shores Hospice, Leamington. Paul served with the Black Watch, Royal Canadian Regiment and RSS, and took his commission as a Civil Officer to complete his 48 years in uniform at Petawawa.

He is now reunited with his beloved wife Monika (2019), his bride of 55 years, now Together Forever. Dear son of Myrtle Rocheleau (2006) and Paul Triolet (1959). Loved brother of Dolly (1973), Angel (2009), Sharon (2010) and survived by his sister Treasure (Gene) McLellan and his special niece Paula (Brian) Pare. He will also be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, friends and old army buddies.

Paul will always be remembered for his quick wit, humour, and the many, many stories of his army days.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of his Life will follow once COVID restrictions are lifted.

The family wishes to sincerely thank the Erie Shores Hospice for the care and love given to Paul over these past 4 months.

Your love shown to Paul will never be forgotten. Also thanks to LHIN, VAC and VON. In kindness, memorial donations made to Erie Shores Hospice or the Charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to the James H Sutton Funeral Home, Amherstburg. You may leave your condolences or make a memorial donation online at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca MAY GOD HOLD YOU IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND AND ANGELS WATCH OVER YOU.

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On May 15, 2021, at the age of 82. William (Bill) is predeceased by his loving wife Christine (née Nedin, 2009). Much loved father of Julie and husband Christian, Rusty, Tina and husband Mark. Adored grandfather of Mackenzie, Jakob, Annie, Elia, and greatgrandchildren, Harriet and George. Dear brother of Barbara and husband Marvin; brother-in-law of Michael Nedin and wife Cindy and sister-in-law, Nina Nedin. Bill will be lovingly remembered by many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, and most especially by his dog, MacDuff.

Bill retired from Canada Post after 35 years of service.

Additionally, Bill served the town of Amherstburg for 21 years as Councillor, Deputy Reeve, and Mayor, the latter for 12 years.

He gave 19 years of service to the Amherstburg Community Credit Union. In addition, Bill served on the St. Clair College Board of Governors. He provided endless hours of energy and time to better the community where he was born and raised.

Over the years, he coached many youth and adult teams in baseball, basketball and hockey. Bill was an avid gardener and also volunteered with the Amherstburg Horticultural Society.

Bill was well respected by all who knew him. He was quickwitted, adventuresome, very personable and kind. Most of all, Bill loved his family dearly.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Richmond Terrace for the loving and thoughtful care they provided this past year.

Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society will be gratefully appreciated. Cremation has taken place.

Bill’s family requests photos, videos, and written memories for inclusion in a memorial video they will share later.

Submissions will be received at info@folksblogen.com no later than May 30. We’d love to hear from you.

Arrangements entrusted to Families First, Amherstburg, 585 Sandwich Street South (519-969-5841).

Mailloux, William “Bill”

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14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

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Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, altruism is a noble trait, but remember to also devote some time to your own interests. There is a way to find a balance between all of your actions.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Travel plans may be on your mind, Taurus.

Weigh all of the pros and cons of traveling before purchasing your plane ticket or booking that hotel.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, when opportunities spring up sometime this week, you may need to grab that golden ring quickly or it is bound to pass you by in a flash. Then regrets may sink in.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 It is easy to miss the forest for the trees, Cancer. Making decisions based on one detail will not do you justice. You have to look at the bigger picture before making a decision.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, after a few amendments to your plan, you will have some good options to go on.

Scorpio can give a look as well and offer some advice on how to proceed this week.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, if each day seems like a mental marathon, then you definitely need to find some “me” time to unwind and disconnect. Schedule time each day to devote to yourself.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 It may seem productive to look at the world through rose-colored glasses, Libra.

However, repeatedly guarding others from anything unpleasant can be a disservice.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Continue to stay on top of all the nuts and bolts of your daily life, Scorpio. You have been a champ at managing schedules and deadlines for yourself and others.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Health news may bring a scare, Sagittarius. If anyone can whittle down the facts and get on a solid course, it is you. You’ll get through this challenge.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, it is time to start looking for new hobbies to pass the time, especially if you’ve been spending a lot of time at home. You could transition into a new career.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Big changes are in store for you this week, Aquarius. You could get the news that you have been waiting for. This may mean you will have to quickly rise to action.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, while others are taking in the scenery this week, you are getting down to business. This can set you on a productive path.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MAY 16 - Megan Fox, Actress (35) MAY 17 - Bob Saget, Actor (65) MAY 18 - Jack Johnson, Singer (46) MAY 19 - Kevin Garnett, Athlete (45) MAY 20 - Rachael Platten, Singer (40) MAY 21 - Gotye, Singer (41) MAY 22 - Julian Edelman, Athlete (35)

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

ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

Antonella Toppi (right) accepts ice cream from Linda Rochon Perrone and Barb Deslippe from the James H. Sutton Funeral Home. Toppi’s father Camillo passed away recently and he and his late wife Assunta enjoyed going to the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour, so that was included in the funeral procession. The Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour donated the ice cream. RTT Photos by Ron Giofu

Even in difficult times, ice cream can help ease the pain

By Ron Giofu Camillo Toppi passed away May 7 at age 84 and the life of the Amherstburg resident was celebrated with a funeral mass last Thursday morning at St. John the Baptist Church.

Ice cream was something Camillo enjoyed during his life, often taking his wife and house guests, including grandchildren, to the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour.

As the funeral procession passed the Dalhousie St. business, it stopped in where the group of mourners who were able to go to the funeral amid COVID-19 public health restrictions were able to eat a scoop of ice cream in their vehicles in Camillo’s memory.

The arrangement came together thanks to the co-operation of the James H. Sutton Funeral Home and the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour. Justin DeLuca, co-owner of the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour, stated he was happy to be able to assist the family in this difficult time.

DeLuca said he was contacted by James H. Sutton Funeral Home manager Linda Rochon Perrone about the request and he said it was no problem to help out.

“She said that there was a gentleman who used to come here with his wife,” said DeLuca. “She passed away last year and he passed away recently” The thought was that it would be a nice idea to have the funeral procession stop by the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour en route to the cemetery and DeLuca agreed to give them whatever they need. He said if they can give ten scoops of ice cream to people in a difficult time, it was the least they could do and it made him feel good to help out as well.

“It’s an amazing feeling to give them a simple treat during a sad time in their lives,” he said. “It’s a feel good story on a sad day.”

Last Thursday was a bright, sunny day so it made things all the better, he pointed out.

“What a perfect day for ice cream,” said DeLuca.

“It’s ice cream weather.”

Camillo’s daughters Antonella Toppi and Floriana The funeral procession for Camillo Toppi approaches the Polowick were part of the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour last Thursday morning. As Toppi procession and noted they enjoyed ice cream, the family had ice cream in his memory as part did a similar stop when of the procession. The ice cream was provided free of charge. their mother Assunta died last year.

Antonella stated whenever their parents had house guests, particularly from out of town, they added a trip to the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour to their agenda.

“They would say ‘let’s go get ice cream and take a walk in the park’,” said Antonella.

“Even when we had visitors from out of town including when we had guests from Italy, we definitely had to come here,” she said.

Antonella and Floriana agreed it was special to come to the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour to honour and remember their parents. Antonella added their father died unexpectedly but recalled how much he enjoyed walking in the King’s Navy Yard Park with ice cream, especially with members of his family.

Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

County to extend road work projects thanks to gas tax “top up” funding

THRIVE Amherstburg held the first public presentation of its ideas last Monday night. The next public presentation is May 25 at 6:30 p.m. via the “Events” tab at www.thriveamherstburg.com. Screenshot

THRIVE Amherstburg goes to the public

By Ron Giofu The new organization known as THRIVE Amherstburg has made its first public presentation with positive feedback gathered thus far.

The group’s first Zoom meeting was Monday night with over 40 people on the call and the bulk of the questions and comments received were positive with some other ideas raised. The group, co-chaired by Richard Peddie and Lauri Brouyette, has a group of 12 board members and two advisors that are trying to encourage council and the citizens to “invest in Amherstburg” and use a progressive approach that follows the science and adheres to international best practices.

“We may challenge and debate, but always in a mature, civil and positive manner,” said Peddie.

Brouyette outlined how an Amherstburg Community Foundation survey, an organization also chaired by Peddie, found the waterfront, people and historical significance of Amherstburg as the town’s three top strengths. THRIVE Amherstburg believes the community is a tourist town, but notes that amenities for tourists including parks and shops benefit residents first and foremost.

Tourism can help foster economic development and create jobs, said Brouyette.

As it pertains to investing in the future, Brouyette said the group understands that no one likes higher taxation but a tax rate increase lower than the rate of inflation “won’t get the job done.”

“Lower taxes should never be the imperative for town leadership,” she said.

Peddie went over the placemaking concept, which is “the multi-faceted approach to the planning, design and management of a town’s public spaces.” He went over nine pillars of THRIVE’s strategy, including active transportation, parks, lowering speed limits, public art, historical preservation, parking, affordable housing, open streets and climate change.

Of open streets, it doesn’t mean kicking cars off roads but also prioritizing people first. Regarding climate change, Peddie added Amherstburg declared a climate emergency in Nov. 2019 but has yet to take any action on it.

Jasmine Hurst, a director with THRIVE, highlighted the youth network, which she said “is an awesome way to get volunteer hours,” as well as expanding their networks and leadership skills and obtaining greater knowledge.

Those who made comments and asked questions were largely supportive, with Carolyn Davies asking about electrical storage and also about affordable housing. On the latter, she suggested buildings with large windows and balconies as “anything we build has to make people feel good about who they are.” Peddie believed there is a lot of misinformation going around on that topic, adding they want people to be open to the subject.

“Have an open mind and think why it’s important to Amherstburg,” he said.

Other ideas and comments included using the current sites of Western Secondary and General Amherst High Schools for other uses including affordable housing, what the membership fees will go towards, and the future guest speakers THRIVE plans to bring in.

Peddie noted the membership fees will help pay for advertising, guest speaker fees, books and other materials, adding THRIVE is not a money-making venture.

Asked how they would reach others who may need convincing, Peddie noted the ads, media coverage and social media outreach but said others have to spread the word about their ideas and concepts too.

THRIVE Amherstburg has another Zoom presentation next Tuesday night and plan guest speakers as well. For information, visit www.thriveamherstburg.com.

CLOSED Mon., May 24 due to the

Victoria Day Holiday Deadlines for display ads will be

Thurs., May 20th at 4:30 p.m. for the May 26th issue

Have a Safe Holiday Weekend!

By Ron Giofu Road projects within Essex County can now occur over longer stretches thanks to additional gas tax funding.

Essex County council received a report which stated the additional funding can be used to extend road projects already approved over larger stretches of roadway.

Director of infrastructure services/county engineer Jane Mustac pointed out the county received additional gas tax funding. She said the funding will be used to supplement the county’s road rehabilitation program.

“The first (gas tax) allocation did help support our 2021 program,” Mustac told county council during the virtual meeting last Wednesday night. “The additional funding available from the second round provides us with an opportunity to advance some of those sections that were planned in subsequent years from our five-year program.”

Mustac said that sections of roadways that were selected are extensions of work already approved under the county’s early release program.

“The top up adds an additional $2.2 million as the county share of the funding,” she said.

A stretch of roadway that could impact Amherstburg drivers includes a stretch of County Road 11 (Walker Road) in McGregor. A one-kilometre stretch of road from County Road 10 (Middle Side Road) to North Malden Road will be added to the project, which already saw an approval of a 0.9-kilometre stretch of road just north of that. The estimate for the extended portion is $140,000, according to Mustac’s report.

Other roadwork project extensions that will occur thanks to the additional gas tax funding include another 2.4-kilometres on County Road 18 in Essex, an additional 1.3 kilometres on a County Road 22 project in Lakeshore, an additional 2.5 kilometres on a County Road 20 project in Leamington, an additional 1.9 kilometres to a County Road 34 project in Kingsville and an additional 1.8 kilometres to a County Road 50 project, also in Kingsville.

“The Infrastructure Services Department annually evaluates pavement condition based on surface condition, ride quality, friction, rutting, base condition and drainage,” Mustac stated in her report to county council. “The department uses a three-tier approach of reconstruction, rehabilitation and preventative maintenance to address the worst highways through reconstruction, improve poor highways by rehabilitation and extend the life of good pavement through preventative maintenance. Also incorporated, is an asset management philosophy, by developing programs that prioritize projects based on factors such as remaining service life, traffic volumes, truck volumes, cost/benefit, ride quality, maintenance savings and condition of bridge/culverts in a corridor.”

Mustac also noted the county’s annual program, as well as the five-year State of Good Repair (SOGR) rehabilitation program, supports the principles and objectives established in Essex County’s asset management plan.

“The rehabilitation program separates longer road segments into affordable sections that are planned to be completed in sequential years,” she stated in her report. “The additional funding provides an opportunity to lengthen the sections and advance some poor condition road segments into the current construction program. Tenders have been awarded and work has commenced, however, the additional work can be included as a change order.”

Community Calendar

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 (1-888236-6236), visit www.blood.ca or use the GiveBlood app.

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 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

THE HOUSE YOUTH PROGRAMS Youth programs at The House Youth Centre have resumed virtually. Grade 9 & 11 students meet Tuesdays, Grades 10 & 12 meet Wednesdays. For more information, visit https://linktr.ee/thehouseyouthcentre, view the The House’s Facebook page or e-mail program director Natalyn Brouillard at natalyn@houseyouthcentre.com.

BOTTLE DONATIONS - The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club is accepting empties of bottles. To donate bottles, contact Kim at yldkim@yahoo.ca 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, visit www.wevax.ca or, if you need extra assistance or do not have Internet access, call 226-773-2200.

FISH FRY - Held Fridays at the AMA Sportsmen Club, 468 Lowes Side Road.

Everyone welcome. Pickerel $18, chicken $15.

Call in advance starting at 11 a.m. Fridays to place order. 519-736-5706. Runs from 3-6 p.m.

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.

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. Please know that as a member, your support may be expressed in a variety of ways including your time, your voice and/or your financial support through a Membership donation. 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 519-776-6483, ext. 246.

To place your event in the Community Calendar please email: mail@rivertowntimes.com

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 19, 2021

www.rivertowntimes.com

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