River Town Times - May 26, 2021

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Essex County council backs Regional Energy Plan

Wednesday, May 26, 2021

By Ron Giofu A Regional Energy Plan has been backed by the County of Essex.

Essex County council supported a Regional Energy Plan in principle as part of their virtual meeting last Wednesday night and directed county administration to begin pursuing its recommended strategies to address climate change and reduce local energy consumption and costs.

The Regional Energy Plan was coordinated by the Essex Region Conservation Authority in partnership with the County and funded with provincial grant money. According to the County of Essex, it was developed over an accelerated timeline of 18 months by a task force, comprised of a broad cross section of community and industry stakeholders, that only held virtual meetings.

The plan calls for an increase in community-wide energy efficiency of at least 50 per cent by 2041 over 2019 levels and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of at least 60 per cent by 2041 over 2019 levels.

“There’s no doubt about it – the status quo just doesn’t do it anymore,” said Warden Gary McNamara.

“This plan sets ambitious energy efficiency targets and will serve as both a road map and vehicle to help us achieve them. We need to take action for our youth and the generations to come.”

McNamara co-chaired the task force with local businessman Dan Hanson.

“We need a made-in-Essex County solution. We need

Essex County council approved in principle a Regional Energy Plan at last Wednesday virtual meeting. The plan was 18 months in the making with a special task force helping to create the plan, one that is hoped will have environmentaland economic benefits. Screenshot

a made-in-Windsor solution,” said McNamara. “It will take time to bring this up to where we need it to be.”

The Regional Energy Plan is described as one that is not only designed to improve the environment, but also carries a goal of creating new employment opportunities and transforming the area’s economy as the plan is rolled out.

The development of the Regional Energy Plan was driven by a growing local urgency to address and mitigate the causes and impacts of climate change, including flooding, shoreline erosion and the increased frequency of severe weather events. The county states it recognizes the potential for job creation and economic growth through improved energy efficiency and the opportunity to repatriate energy dollars that currently flow out of Essex County to Western Canada or elsewhere in Ontario.

“The cost of doing nothing far outstrips the cost of meeting the climate challenge head on, of working as

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a region to improve energy efficiency and reducing emissions while creating new jobs and building a more diverse and sustainable economy,” said McNamara.

The County of Essex, local municipalities, community members and representatives from utility providers plus the construction, agriculture, greenhouse and energy sectors were involved in developing the plan.

All will need to play a role in implementing the plan and achieving the targets, says the final Regional Energy Plan report.

Claire Sanders, climate change specialist with ERCA, pointed out that residents and businesses in the area paid approximately $820 million in energy costs in 2019 and one of the goals is to have that number reduced. Among the many goals include building efficient homes and buildings, looking closer at renewable energy and working with the greenhouse industry to make them more energy efficient.

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

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The Regional Energy Plan was presented to Essex County council Wednesday night with proposed environmental and economic benefits outlined. County council gave its OK in principle. Screenshot

Regional Energy Plan approved in principle

Continued from Page 1 The plan sets out five priorities that should be completed by the end of 2025 and those include the establishment of a governing group to oversee the implementation of the plan, as well as separate entities to oversee key aspects. This includes the formation of a body responsible for facilitating retrofits of up to 80 per cent of homes to make them more energy efficient, a greenhouse growers energy services cooperative and a district energy entity; the aligning of all county and municipal plans and land use strategies with the goals of the Regional Energy Plan; the development of an integrated energy master plan for a manufacturing cluster and a net-zero community that uses the same amount of energy as it produces from renewable sources; a bioenergy master plan; and a community-level e-mobility strategy; developing a program to increase energy and climate literacy and action and the creation of a “smart energy region” by measuring and reporting on progress implementing the plan, as well as ways to improve it over time.

Rebecca Belanger, manager of planning services with the County of Essex, noted the goal of aligning not just the county Official Plan with the Regional Energy Plan, but plans from all seven Essex County municipalities as well. She said municipalities have a role in protecting the environment as well.

“We must lead by example,” said Belanger.

The strategies outlined in the plan put Essex County on the pathway to achieving an estimated $28 billion in cumulative energy savings by 2050. Pursuing these strategies collectively as a region will drastically reduce our emissions and allow us to build a greener and more diversified, sustainable economy.

“We are ready. We can do this. As youth in this community we know that this plan is important,” said Cara Braun, a member of the Windsor-Essex Youth Climate Council.

“We are already seeing the worsening effects of climate change happening around us and worry about what this means for us all in years to come. When we think about our future we want to be able to envision an Essex County that is a sustainable, efficient and beautiful place to live. But for this vision to become a reality we need to take steps now.”

The Windsor-Essex Youth Climate Council made a presentation to county council with member Connor Sunderland adding that county council declared a climate emergency in 2019 but has done little with it since.

“You have an opportunity here and now,” said Sunderland. “You need to stand by your words and help protect our future.”

Oscar Cormier, research and advocacy head for the youth council, also implored county council to take action.

“There will be many chances for you to be part of the global solution. This is one of them,” he said.

Youth Council member Paige Rosebush said Essex County can’t fall behind its neighbours and agreed that action has to be done to protect the planet.

“Something needs to be done and it needs to be done sooner rather than later,” she said.

Some county council members noted they were in support of the plan, but questioned whether timelines were moving quickly enough. Those included Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo and Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche. DiCarlo noted some early timelines are five years out and wondered if that was too long while Meloche said he thought the plan was on the reactionary side rather than being more proactive. Meloche also called for more reforestation and exploration and action on the root causes of climate change.

Kingsville Mayor Nelson Santos called the REP “an inspirational plan for our region” and said they have to keep in mind that it is a benefit for the future.

“What we’ve heard is that there’s an overwhelming collective, there’s partnerships that have been identified and groups that are willing to carry the ball for us for the region as whole,” he said.

Santos noted many sectors are on board and coming together.

“I think it shows we’re moving in the right direction and with this in mind, I think that’s the overall point. We didn’t get here overnight and it’s going to take more than a night to resolve it,” said Santos.

The plan isn’t “just words,” Santos added, but also contains action items that can be pursued. Short-term goals also include policy changes, he noted.

“I believe the plan will, overall, reflect on us positively as a region with both economic benefits and expansion,” he said.

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Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 3

County’s accessibility committee launches “WE Check the Trails” initiative

By Ron Giofu

Representatives of the Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee (ECAAC) appeared before Essex County council last week with a new initiative.

The committee is launching a new initiative in time for National Access Awareness Week with that initiative being known as “WE Check the Trails.” Committee chair Christine Easterbrook outlined the new project, one that she said is being done in conjunction with the County of Essex and the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA).

Easterbrook noted the focus is on trails in the region, including the Cypher Systems Greenway, the Rotary Hub near the Herb Gray Parkway and the Chrysler Canada Greenway, and the public is encouraged to check trails to ensure they are free of debris and accessible to all.

Among the items people are requested to look out The Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee outlined a series of initiatives they have been involved with. One of the latest is called for while on any of the local trails include enough “WE Check the Trails,” a plan that would ensure the local trail networks are accessible and welcoming to all. Screenshot room for mobility aids, whether there are physical Queen did note there was a meeting with the Windsor accessibility commitbarriers along any of the trails, whether there are potholes or crevices along the tee using Zoom with other municipal committees from around the county also trail systems, railings and shaded areas.

There is an online form that can be filled out through the County of Essex’s invited to join.

Topics included communication standards, including input from Amherwebsite that people can use to report any issues on the trail system within Windstburg’s committee about not just font sizes but using language that is undersor-Essex County.

Easterbrook pointed out the trails are public spaces, and everyone should have standable when messages are posted online.

The Windsor-Essex Community Safety Plan was also discussed, said Queen, equal access to them both now and in the future.

“We can address issues if we know about them,” she said. “The best way to as well as training, building better bathrooms for those with disabilities, accesfind out about them are through the trail users. We want to thank ERCA and the sible public transportation, arts and recreation, working with other committees to advise of other services, and other topics. county for your commitment to accessibility.”

Warden Gary McNamara said there were tremendous opportunities presented Easterbrook was joined by vice chair Gord Queen and member Rachel Jewell, with Jewell giving county council an update on how the COVID-19 pandemic to county council but noted there is still a lot taken for granted by the public. He has impacted the committee. Jewell said people with disabilities are dispropor- thanked the committee for suggestions about improvements, public transportation and how to build things to better suit those with disabilities. tionally affected by the pandemic in many ways.

“It’s certainly an eye opening for all of us, and we want to thank you, your “Many barriers that remain present for every day activities are now exacerbated by the pandemic. For those who live independently or for those who live committee, your group, for continuing to do great work in advancing the cause in congregate settings, there is the risk of loneliness and feelings of isolation, the of accessibility for those disabled constituents in our region,” he said. risk of care providers bringing COVID into their home, the risk of decreased levels of care because of reassigned health care providers or their missing work OPEN because of an increased fear for their own safety,” said Jewell.

TUES-FRI There are also other risks with regards to accessing transportation, she noted.

8:30-5 There are also possibilities that supports are lessened for children with a disabilSAT 8:30-4 ity who have to learn from home. There can also be some confusion as to how CLOSED and where people with disabilities are able to access a vaccine.

Serving the Community Since 1970 MONDAYS “Added to these concerns are recent discussions about triaging individuals in need of care in Ontario’s overwhelmed ICU’s. It is of great concern for people living with a disability,” she added, noting there are concerns over discrimination and mischaracterizations of their conditions.

People with disabilities could be placed at risk in terms of getting the care they are entitled to and in need of, she stated.

Prices in effect Thursday, May 27th to Wednesday, June 2nd, 2021 “Of note are the Ontario Human Rights Conditions and advocacy groups that are objecting to these triage protocols in their present state,” Jewell added.

“Advocacy groups will remain vigilant and respectful in their request for inlb put about triage and all situations of anyone with a disability who is impacted in with Asparagus & Provolone Cheese these unprecedented times,” said Jewell.

Queen, also the deputy mayor of Kingsville, noted the pandemic has preventOntario Grain Fed ed them from hosting workshops, such as one they have held in LaSalle, as well as wheelchair basketball games that have been held in the past at Western Seclb (Cutlets) ondary School.

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

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A few ramblings that have been on my mind…

There are a few different ideas that have been on my mind and I thought I would just share them here.

JUST A THOUGHT

•What will the name of the new public high school in Amherstburg be? The naming committee is currently going through its process but ultimately the final decision Ron Giofu will be made by trustees with the Greater Essex County District School Board.

A number of names are being considered, though many at last Thursday afternoon’s virtual meeting spoke in favour of working the town’s name into the school’s name as well.

The thought behind that is the fact most schools in Essex County are named for the municipality in which they are located. However, also a factor is the board’s potential willingness to distance themselves Jeffrey Amherst, the military figure accused of using biological warfare, including smallpox blankets, against Indigenous people in the 1700’s.

The committee and the board itself also has to consider diversity and that makes the Three Fires Confederacy name a possible choice, as is the name of Harriet Tubman. North Star and White Woods are also in the mix.

Also a factor is combining the populations of the current General Amherst High School and Western Secondary School and having the name reflect both populations. It was stated Amherstburg District High School covers both schools. While the focus was primarily on the name of the building itself, could the team nickname also play a role in allowing both schools to maintain their identities. For instance, if having Amherstburg in the name is considered to be too closely associated with General Amherst, could nicknaming the teams and clubs the “Warriors,” the current Western nickname, give a nod to the latter’s culture and identity? Just a thought.

One thing seems certain in this whole debate – regardless of what name that is ultimately chosen as the school’s new name, some will love it and some will hate it.

Hopefully as time goes on though, all will accept it.

•I had to feel for local volunteer groups that are part of the Amherstburg Community Team as they asked the Windsor Police Services Board for a reduction in costs of police clearances. The team, which will make a similar request in LaSalle next month, was successful in some respect as the WPSB is getting a report on the matter but we’ll see what is ultimately decided.

These groups and organizations do a lot of work in Amherstburg as well as in neighbouring municipalities. Many are small groups with members that have limited incomes due to the fact volunteers are either youth or seniors. I am on a volunteer board of directors myself (Community Living Essex County) and that is a role I enjoy, so I understand where these groups are coming from.

Volunteering is great for the organizations that benefit from the person’s work as well as for the volunteer itself. Giving back however you can is a wonderful feeling so I always enjoy seeing those bettering the community in their own way getting support when they need it.

•I hope everyone had a great Victoria Day weekend. I was able to enjoy some time away from the job and get some down time so that was a plus. I was going to try and steer away from COVID-19 related topics this week but since that’s the world we still live in, I will just say that I hope everyone stayed safe and were able to have a good time responsibly. When I post the daily COVID-19 statistics from the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit on Twitter, I do enjoy seeing lower numbers as it means we are moving in a positive direction.

Like everyone else, I can’t wait for this pandemic to be over so we can return to our normal lives.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Amherstburg is already the best small town to live in The paper reported on a new self appointed advisory group with a declared mandate to lead the town in development. There is no problem with development, but development to what, can be.

The new group’s ideas for change appear to be based on large urban ideology. My opinion is we don’t need to make changes that are promoted for large city urban development. Large urban areas needs are not small town Canada’s needs. Should we stop using our own transportation, change speed limits, change traffic flow, change walking paths and parks and increase our taxes? “Change for the sake of change” and “bigger is not always better” are far from valid philosophies.

This area was first settled around 1797 and incorporated in 1878 as the town of Amherstburg. Over the years, change and growth have taken place but, at a small town non-intrusive and acceptable rate. This town will continue to develop, but radical large city type change is far from what we need.

Walk down the street and ask anyone what they think of this town, invariably the answer is “I love it.” I have even been told by some that had they not discovered this town’s people, atmosphere and location their quality of life would be in ruins. So, in my mind, the development of this town has followed the right path. My opinion is we already have the best town to live in.

We are far from being paralyzed by huge population density areas. We are not Hamilton, the GTA, or Bogota, Columbia. Make your choice: large urban type controls or quality of small town living?

Those who have just moved here and find this town not to their liking, I suggest they reassess the many attractions, functions, amenities, and atmosphere this small town already enjoys. Heck, our wonderful location even makes finding Hwy 401 E very easy.

—Frank Fox, Amherstburg

Book Review Bel Canto

By Ann Patchett Adult Fiction

Bel Canto begins with a birthday party for a prominent businessman held at the home of the Vice President of some South American country. The party is perfect: it is a night of privilege, excess and decadence. That all comes to a screeching halt when armed terrorists take the entire party hostage. What follows is a twisty tale of relationships formed and forgotten, loyalties stretched and broken.

It is not an action packed tale of terrorists and hostages. This is not a sweeping story full of lust and sex. But it includes all of that. This is a story that comes in on little cat paws, quietly, it unfolds like a soft, steady breeze that you don’t even notice until a strand of hair brushes across your face. Patchett writes so lyrically that it forces you to slow down your reading to savour every bit of the story. Bel Canto is a perfect sunny day on the patio read.

Submitted by Lori Wightman, of River Bookshop, Amherstburg

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Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 5

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The rate of COVID-19 per 100,000 was broken down by municipality by Dr. Wajid Ahmed last week. The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit held its monthly board meeting virtually last week. Screenshot

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) held its monthly board meeting last Thursday evening. As part of the presentation from medical officer of health Dr. Wajid Ahmed, he broke down the statistics of how the vaccines are distributed. Screenshot

WECHU notes local COVID-19 cases fluctuating in the region

By Ron Giofu The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) board received an update on local COVID-19 statistics and are also continuing to encourage people of all ages to be vaccinated.

Medical officer of health Dr. Wajid Ahmed’s report to the board of health outlined the latest trends and statistics for the region, with Ahmed noting at last Thursday’s virtual meeting the case rate in WindsorEssex County continues to fluctuate day-over day with slight increases last week. Provincially, cases steadily decreased last week, as of last Thursday afternoon.

“Overall we have still a relatively high number of cases that are being reported every day,” he said.

Cases increased over the past week from 61.4 cases per 100,000 people to 67.6 per 100,000. Per cent positivity data remains steady at 5.2 per cent and the number

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of tests continues to be at roughly 5,000 per week, he stated. Cases in school-aged children average about five per day despite the school closure, he added.

“That can be attributed to some of the activities school-aged children are having outside of the school or contracting it in their home,” said Ahmed.

From a proportion perspective in the week of May 12-18, 76 per cent of reported COVID-19 cases were in Windsor while LaSalle had seven per cent and Lakeshore five per cent. Essex had four per cent of cases while Amherstburg and Tecumseh each were reported at three per cent. Kingsville and Leamington were each at one per cent.

“The highest cases are in the youngest age group – between 0-29 – recognizing that the vaccinations just opened up for that age group while the rest of the age bands have their vaccinations open for quite some time,” said Ahmed. “Among those age bands, we can see a clear decline in the cases so we are anticipating that with the opening of vaccines to the younger population we’ll see a decline in this age group as well.”

Ahmed added the acquisition source is distributed primarily between close contacts and community transmission, though noted COVID-19 related hospitalizations and admissions into intensive care units (ICU’s) have decreased.

“Almost one-third of our cases are coming from community or where we don’t have any information on how they acquired the disease which is concerning and continues to highlight the importance of keeping these public health measures in place until we get to a place where our case rates are down and our community transmission continues to fall,” he stated.

Variants of concern cases continue to be an issue, he noted, and on an average, more than 70 per cent of cases are coming from that “except

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for the last few days.” Variants spread quickly and he noted that can cause spikes in the numbers of daily cases.

The number of vaccinations continues to rise, Ahmed continued, and the region is averaging 3,600 vaccinations per day through all of the WECHU channels. The high has reached 4,900 vaccinations in a day, he said.

“Overall, from zero to the oldest person in WindsorEssex, our coverage rate is at 48.3 per cent. Just looking at the adult population, our coverage rate close to 62.3 per cent,” stated Ahmed.

Ahmed added they hope the coverage rates improve in the younger age groups as numbers are low because they have only just been allowed to obtain a vaccination.

“We want the majority of our population to be vaccinated as high as possible but to see at least 70 per cent to see the impact of the vaccinations and a decline of case rates in our community,” he said.

Essex Mayor Larry Snively noted he was concerned about his five-year-old and two-year-old grandsons and wondered what the youngest cases are that have been recorded. He was told there have been documented cases in infants in the community.

Ahmed stated they hope to give all age groups a chance to get the vaccine and “we are anticipating in the next few weeks we should be in a good spot but then we’ll have to deal with more campaigning or awareness of the vaccine and urge people to get the vaccine. Right now, our clinics are still full and there is demand in all segments of our population.”

Board chair Gary McNamara wanted to know if there is going to be messaging to get the younger age group vaccines. He said recent numbers have been in that age group, and he noted that many are working in fast food restaurants and grocery stores. Ahmed said they are looking at using resources where there may be a slow uptake.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

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Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 7

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Education unions, trustees speak out against hybrid learning

By Ron Giofu Hybrid learning has received a hard pass from unions representing public education workers and some trustees are speaking out as well.

Union presidents spoke out against hybrid learning, or the mix of both in-person and virtual learning, during last Tuesday night’s virtual meeting of the Greater Essex County District School Board.

Mario Spagnuolo, president of the local chapter of the Elementary Teachers Federation of Ontario (ETFO) and Erin Roy, president of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers Federation (OSSTF) District 9, both encouraged public board trustees to vote against hybrid learning plans when the time comes.

Spagnuolo stated they were trying to take a proactive approach to the issue and didn’t want to see the GECDSB implement such a model in the future. He noted that many educators have referred to it as “fractured learning.”

Implementing a hybrid system would result in a “learning gap” for some students and cause teachers to have to not only devote time to students in an in-person setting, but as well as students online via a webcam.

“Students deserve a dedicated educator in class regardless of whether it is virtual or in-person,” he said.

Spagnuolo read a list of school boards in Ontario that have rejected the concept of a hybrid learning system including those in Toronto, Ottawa, Niagara Falls, Hamilton, Thunder Bay and London among others.

He believed such a model is bad for student learning, creates inequities in the system including negatively impacting marginalized students and those with special needs and he also believed such a model would erode trust in public education.

“I urge trustees to be vocal and make the right choice for families and educators,” he said.

Spagnuolo believed it would be “virtually impossible” for a teacher to divide their attention equally between in-person learners and students that are learn-

Aria D’Alassandro does school work online last Friday. The concept of hybrid learning is getting opposed by public elementary workers and at least some trustees. Submitted photo

ing online.

“We don’t want to go down this road,” he said. “We don’t want the board to go down this road.”

Roy believed by going to such a learning model, it could lead to higher absenteeism and increased parental complaints. She also said they “want to encourage the board not to go down this road.”

It would be a “waste of taxpayers’ money” to equip classrooms for both models, she said, adding the learning model considered should be looked at through the lens of a “return to normalcy.”

High school is more than just a student there to collect credits to earn a diploma, Roy added, but there are

many other aspects to the high school experience that must be considered. She noted a virtual model has impacts on hands-on learning, including how a science experiment could be taught.

Trustee Alan Halberstadt asked GECDSB administration their opinions on the matter, noting his e-mail inbox is filling up about it. Superintendent of Education - Program and Professional Learning Clara Howitt said there has been no decision made at this point and administration is still taking a close look at the pros and cons of the matter.

“We are taking very deliberate consultations on each of the models,” she said.

“Our goal is to have students return to face-to-face learning in September,” added superintendent of human resources Vicki Houston, though she also stated no decision has been made as of yet.

Director of education Erin Kelly indicated a recommendation could be coming to the board of trustees in the coming weeks.

Some trustees have already made up their minds on the subject of hybrid learning. Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee Ron LeClair took to Twitter to voice his opposition to such a plan.

“I do not support a hybrid model for teaching.

Teachers need to focus on one group of students either in the classroom or online but not both at the same time,” LeClair tweeted, with the hashtag #NoHybrid.

“Every effort should be made to have all of our students back in a safe classroom in September. To be clear... no Fractured model....no hybrid...our students, staff and parents deserve better!”

Trustee Cathy Cooke, also the board’s vice chair, tweeted “I do not support a hybrid teaching model.

Teachers should not be expected to teach in-person and online students simultaneously. Hybrid model will not serve students well. It will not meet the needs of students.” Trustee Julia Burgess believed it was “good news” that the Peel District School Board will not implement a hybrid model for elementary students next year.

Work underway at new childcare facility at Stella Maris School Child care should be open later this year

By Ron Giofu The ground has been broken and work is underway at the new childcare facility at Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School.

The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board recently approved the tender in the amount of $1,764,356 plus HST and Alliance General Contracting of Windsor Inc. has begun construction.

The recent report, from WECDSB director of education Terry Lyons, notes the project is being funded from the Early Years Capital Program funding for the project.

“The Ministry of Education approved capital funding for Early Years Capital Program (EYCP) at Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School in the amount of $2,117,516 for a four-room childcare addition,” the report from Lyons pointed out. “In accordance with the Ministry of Education capital approval process, the EYCP project at Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School was approved to proceed to tender on January 6, 2020.”

Lyons stated that a tender was issued to nine pre-qualified general contractors per the WECDSB’s purchasing policy for the EYCP project at Stella Maris, with that tender being issued Feb. 3. Electronic tenders were received March 16, in accordance with the tendering instructions received for the project, he continued, adding tenders were reviewed by manager of pruchasing and capital Erika Timmons and recorded.

“All electronic tender submissions were reviewed and determined to be in compliance with the required process and documentation,” the report added.

“Sfera Architects, the project architect, confirmed received bids are competitive and in accordance with the budget estimate submitted to the Ministry of Education for the approved project.Given the availability of approved budget funds, administration is recommending awarding the project to the low bidder, Alliance General Contracting of Windsor Inc., in the amount of $1,764,356

A new four-room childcare addition is now under construction at the south side of Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School. The board says the project could be completed by Nov. 30 and the site will be operated by The Creative Child Learning Centre. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

+ HST.” Construction is now underway at the south side of Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School.

The new addition is expected to house an infant room, toddler room and two preschool rooms.

8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

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Ontario government releases “Roadmap to Reopen” plan

By Ron Giofu

The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, has released its Roadmap to Reopen last Thursday afternoon.

According to a news release from the Ontario government, the plan is “a three-step plan to safely and cautiously reopen the province and gradually lift public health measures based on the provincewide vaccination rate and improvements in key public health and health care indicators.”

In response to recent improvements to these indicators, the provincial government started allowing outdoor recreational amenities to reopen, with restrictions in place, effective last Saturday.

These amenities include but are not limited to golf courses and driving ranges, soccer and other sports fields, tennis and basketball courts, and skate parks. No outdoor sports or recreational classes are permitted. Outdoor limits for social gatherings and organized public events will be expanded to five people, which will allow these amenities to be used for up to five people, including with members of different households. All other public health and workplace safety measures under the provincewide emergency brake will remain in effect.

“As a result of the strict public health measures we introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19 variants, we are seeing a steady improvement in our situation as ICU and hospital numbers begin to stabilize,” said Premier Doug Ford. “While we must remain conscious of the continued threat the virus poses, with millions of Ontarians having received at least their first dose of vaccine we can now begin the process of a slow and cautious re-opening of the province in full consultation with our public health professionals.”

Roadmap to Reopen outlines three steps to easing public health measures, guided by the following principles: •Step One An initial focus on resuming outdoor activities with smaller crowds where the risk of transmission is lower, and permitting retail with restrictions. This includes allowing outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people, outdoor dining with up to four people per table and non-essential retail at 15 per cent capacity.

•Step Two Further expanding outdoor activities and resuming limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn.

This includes outdoor gatherings of up to 25 people, outdoor sports and leagues, personal care services where face coverings can be worn and with capacity limits, as well as indoor religious services, rites or ceremony gatherings at 15 per cent capacity.

•Step Three Expanding access to indoor settings, with restrictions, including where there are larger numbers of people and where face coverings can’t always be worn. This includes indoor sports and recreational fitness; indoor dining, museums, art

The Ontario government revealed a three-stage plan to re-open the province last Thursday afternoon. The first part of the re-opening has happened as recreational amenities have started to re-open with restrictions. Ontario Ministry of Health image

galleries and libraries, and casinos and bingo halls, with capacity limits.

The province will remain in each step for at least 21 days to evaluate any impacts on key public health and health system indicators. If at the end of the 21 days, the following vaccination thresholds have been met, along with positive trends in other key public health and health system indicators, then the province states it will move to the next step.

•Step 1: 60 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose.

•Step 2: 70 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose and 20 per cent vaccinated with two doses.

•Step 3: 70 to 80 per cent of adults vaccinated with one dose and 25 per cent vaccinated with two doses.

Based on current trends in key health indicators, including the provincial vaccination rate, the government expects to enter Step One of the Roadmap the week of June 14. The province will confirm closer to the expected start of Step One. “While we know that now is not yet the moment to reopen, Ontarians deserve to know the path forward on what we will carefully reopen and when, starting with the settings we know are safest,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health in the news release. “Brighter days are ahead and we believe this Roadmap represents a path out of the pandemic and will encourage Ontarians to get vaccinated and to continue following public health advice.”

The provincewide emergency brake restrictions remain in effect while the province assesses when it will be moving to Step One of the roadmap with the Stay at Home order expiring on June 2. During this time, the government states it will continue to work with stakeholders on reopening plans to ensure full awareness of when and how they can begin to safely reopen.

At this time, the Ontario government states publicly funded and private elementary and secondary schools in the province will continue to operate under teacher-led remote learning. Data will 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.

The government states it will continue to work with the Public Health Measures Table, Public Health Ontario, and other public health and scientific experts to determine public health guidance for Ontarians to follow, including protocols for masking and outdoor/ indoor gatherings, after being fully vaccinated.

NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said any re-opening

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news is good news, but she said in a statement she is “shocked and disappointed that Doug Ford has ignored students and schools entirely in Ontario’s re-opening plan.”

“Any re-opening news is good news, but children and families are paying an especially high price for Doug Ford’s lockdown, and he’s put no relief in sight.

They are exhausted and frustrated from trying to learn online. Their mental health and well-being are being eroded by the day. Yet Doug Ford is leaving children, families and schools hanging. He’s putting them at the back of the line, and the bottom of the priority list,” stated Horwath. “Schools should be the top priority for re-opening. And we can make schools safe by investing in small class sizes, windows that open, better ventilation and upgrades like touchless faucets. Sadly, once again, Doug Ford is ignoring the experts, because he doesn’t want to spend the money on our kids’ education. I’m grateful to all those who joined our campaign to fight to reopen safe outdoor activities and amenities. To have those things open safely this weekend is a victory for us all. Sadly, Doug Ford has messed up lockdowns and re-openings again and again, and Ontarians have suffered a longer, deeper, more devastating lockdown as a result. His choices are the reason we’re still going to live with some level of lockdown for weeks to come.”

Ontario Liberal leader Steven Del Duca also issued a statement.

“Just days after Doug Ford rejected calls from opposition politicians and the Ontario Science Table to safely reopen outdoor activities, his dragged out ban is finally coming to an end. Ontarians are breathing a sigh of relief after today’s announcement, but some questions remain unanswered,” said Del Duca. “Doug Ford won’t give any indication whether schools are reopening or not. Parents and education workers are once again being left in the dark. They deserve answers now on the future of in-person learning. There was also no mention of a strategy to help women and small businesses lead the economic recovery to end the she-cession and relieve our devastated entrepreneurs. Any economic recovery that doesn’t address those hardest hit by the pandemic is unacceptable. This third wave has been incredibly difficult for all Ontarians, but we’re closer to the end of this ordeal than the beginning. The progress we’ve made is thanks to the sacrifice of all Ontarians. I’m optimistic that today’s announcement is one step closer to normalcy, but we need more than a three-step plan to address the challenges Ontarians continue to face.”

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Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 9

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Volunteer groups appeal to WPSB for relief on police clearance costs

By Ron Giofu Representatives of the Amherstburg Community Team went before the Windsor Police Services Board (WPSB) to try and get relief from cost of police clearances for volunteers.

The team, borne out of roundtable discussions that have been organized over the last few years by Councillor Patricia Simone, asked the WPSB to either waive or at least lower cost of police clearances. The board agreed to get a report come back at their June meeting with information regarding the financial impact.

Team member Cindy Hazael-Gietz noted they obtained letters of support from 16 local organizations as well as a letter of support from Essex MPP Taras Natyshak.

In his letter, Natyshak stated “COVID-19 has brought enormous challenges to these organizations, who provide support for the most vulnerable in our communities, and are the backbone of our communities.”

Natyshak stated many of these organizations lost funding partners, incurred new expenses and lost volunteers.

“They’ve had to cancel fundraiser events that they’ve relied on as a main source of revenue. As a result, they’ve had to find alternative ways to fundraise, staff and reduce expenses,” he wrote.

The letter also stated: “The measure of our communities will always be how we look after the most vulnerable Members of the Windsor Police Service Board (WPSB) discuss a request from the Amherstburg Community Team to reduce or waive the among us, and removing barriers to volunteer participacost for police clearances. A report is expected to go back before the WPSB at the June 24 meeting. Screenshot tions will always go a long way in ensuring the most vulreport “to see what that looks like.” nerable in our communities have the support they need.”

Board member Robert de Verteuil added there are various types of checks per organiHazael-Gietz added the goal of the Amherstburg Community Team is to allow local non-profit groups to keep volunteers, obtain new volunteers and train them for what- zation as well, with Hazael-Gietz stating she volunteers for five groups and insurance ever they need to train them for. She noted that hundreds of people would be impacted companies require checks for specific organizations.

“I think the pandemic is the trigger that brought us here today,” Hazael-Gietz stated by a change in police clearance costs.

Kathy DiBartolomeo, executive director of Amherstburg Community Services (ACS), at the virtual meeting last Thursday afternoon.

DiBartolomeo added there are other checks as well, particularly if a volunteer has the noted that her organization provides over 20 programs to the communities of Amhersame name as someone else and needs to be fingerprinted to verify their identities and stburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle.

“In order to provide these services, we require many volunteers,” stated DiBartolo- backgrounds.

Following the meeting, Hazael-Gietz and Simone circulated an e-mail to groups statmeo.

DiBartolomeo indicated that the preference for smaller not-for-profit organizations ing: “We are encouraged by the motion proposed and look forward to results of the is always to devote their limited resources to programming rather than police clear- report from administration. We hope to have results confirmed by the next meeting of ances, adding many simply can’t afford to cover the costs of police clearances for their the Windsor Police Service Board which takes place on June 24.

“Our next step - We are on the agenda to be heard at the LaSalle Police Service Board volunteers.

Recruiting volunteers has also become increasingly difficult, she added, noting meeting for the same item on June 21 with the same delegation representing our group.” smaller communities like Amherstburg have fewer people to draw from than that of a city and those volunteers are getting older and starting to use the services they used to volunteer for.

“In some cases, they’ve also become one of our clients,” said DiBartolomeo.

Blanche Durocher, board chair with The House Youth Centre, said all of their programming has been virtual but “we hope, hope, hope we will be in the (Amherstburg Community) Hub offering our services in September.”

“We rely very heavily on volunteers as well,” said Durocher.

Durocher said the situation at The House is somewhat different than some groups, as the core of their volunteers are younger.

“The challenge right now is that there is not a lot of jobs for younger people,” she said.

When coming up with fees for a vulnerable sector check, i.e. a police clearance, many younger people are not in a position to pay for it as the $25 cost is a lot for youth. She said The House is not in a position to cover the costs either as their fundraising has been impacted.

Durocher added volunteers come not just from Amherstburg, but Essex, McGregor, LaSalle and Windsor.

Joanne Fear represented both Safe Families Windsor-Essex and Lighthouse Church.

Regarding the former, she noted part of the group’s mandate is to assist families in need should the parents have issues and need someone to look after their children on a temporary basis. She said the cost can be a detriment to some families and there is also confusion and feelings of unfairness as jurisdictions such as the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) offer police clearances at no charge.

Deputy Chief Frank Providenti told the group “we appreciate all that you do” and broke down the $25 charge, stating $11.24 covers a third-party processing fee and the rest goes to the Windsor Police Service Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said he appreciates there is a cost to Windsor police, but wanted to see the costs lowered and suggested it could become cost neutral for the Windsor Police Service.

“Whether it’s in a small town or a big city, these groups provide services we couldn’t provide otherwise,” said DiCarlo. “Anything we can do to keep these groups viable, we should do it.”

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkins, the WPSB chair, Must boef age indicated his preference 19 yeaorlds er to or hase was that a report come purc back on the subject.

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The new Amherstburg public high school is under construction, with this being the view from Fryer St. The school is scheduled to open in September 2022 and a naming committee is trying to hash out what it will be called. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

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The view of the new public high school is seen from Simcoe St. The Greater Essex County District School Board’s naming committee is working to come up with what the school will be called, with an early preference being something with Amherstburg in the title. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

Initial group of possible names hashed out by Amherstburg School Naming Committee

By Ron Giofu The name of Amherstburg’s new public high school still hasn’t been finalized, but some names have made the cut for future consideration.

The committee, appointed by the Greater Essex County District School Board, arrived at six possible names for consideration for the new high school but the most popular had the name Amherstburg within the name. While some preferred Amherstburg District High School, there were some who wanted different wording after Amherstburg, with names like Amherstburg Technical High School or Amherstburg Technical Academy also suggested.

The committee appeared to be ready to send suggestions with Amherstburg in it to board administration for further review along with names that included Three Fires Confederacy High School, Centennial Park High School and naming the school after Harriet Tubman. However, two more suggestions came late in the meeting involving the names White Woods and North Star.

Committee member Jacqueline LaRocque noted the name Harriet Tubman pays tribute to Black history, one of the many things Amherstburg is known for.

PUBLIC NOTICE – PESTICIDE USE WITHIN THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG The Town of Amherstburg intends to control noxious weeds along the following rural roadsides: North of Alma Street – 2nd Concession N, 3rd Concession N, 4th Concession N, 5th Concession N, 6th Concession N, 8th Concession N, Alma Street, Texas Road, North Sideroad; South of Alma Street – 2nd Concession S, 4th Concession S, 5th Concession S, 6th Concession S, 7th Concession S, 9th Concession S, Lowes Sideroad, Creek Road, Malden Colchester South Townline Road, CKLW Townline Road, South Side Road, Collison Side Road, The Town of Amherstburg intends to control noxious weeds along the rural roadsides under their jurisdiction using Clearview Herbicide, which contains the active ingredients, Metsulfuron-Methyl and Aminopyralid. PCP Registration Number 29752 under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada), in combination with Hasten NT Spray Adjuvant, which contains active ingredients Methyl and ethyl oleate (esterified vegetable oil). PCP Registration Number 28277 under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada).

We are controlling Noxious Weeds under Public Works Exception of the Cosmetic Pesticides Ban to the promotion of public health and safety. Please visit the www.amherstburg.ca for more information.

Commencing on May 17, 2021 weather permitting and ending June 22, 2021.

For more information, call collect: Green Stream 1-905-510-1229 Eric Chamberlain-Public Works Town of Amherstburg 1-519-736-3664

Trustee Gale Simko-Hatfield, who joined local trustee and committee chair Ron LeClair as board appointees to the committee, expressed concern about the name possibly being “too heavy on Amherstburg” in the name and wanted to make sure Western Secondary School was recognized.

“There were discussions about not losing discussion of Western Secondary School,” she recalled when the vote came to combine the two schools.

Committee member Tramaine Whited, a member of the parent advisory council at General Amherst, suggested Three Fires Confederacy High School due to the school’s geographic location and it is being built on the traditional land of the Indigenous people. She added it would also satisfy the board’s desire to reflect diversity. Student member Nick Grimaldi said he liked the suggestions with Amherstburg on it but also was warm to the idea of naming it after the Three Fires Confederacy.

Ross Scott noted he was also on the committee to name Western Secondary School and believed Amherstburg District High School would be an appropriate choice “because Western is a part of the district.” Samantha Thomas, a teacher at Western, said the school got its name not just because it was built on the west side of Essex County, but there were also plans for an Eastern Secondary School that never materialized.

Thomas said she liked having Amherstburg in the name as that is how most schools in Essex County are named but was the one suggesting other wording after it to reflect the inclusion of Western students.

“Keeping Amherstburg in the name somehow is my very strong opinion,” added General Amherst Parent Advisory Committee chair and committee member Tina Sharman. “Our town is very rich in history.”

Committee member Amy Reaume added “I do think Amherstburg is special in its own way” and agreed there is a lot of history in town.

“The name lends itself to being its own piece of history,” she said.

General Amherst teacher and committee member Jeff Miller added he also wanted Amherstburg incorporated into the new school’s name. He said he has spoken with many former students, current students, parents, staff and community members who would like that name.

“They are very proud of the municipality they live in. They definitely want to see it used somehow,” said Miller, adding using Amherstburg in the name helps to give the school an identity.

Greg Scott, also a General Amherst teacher and committee member, advocated for Amherstburg District High School. He noted an administrative report with all the board’s school names listed showed 26 of them are associated with the communities in which they are located.

There has been some pushback by some trustees over including the name Jeffrey Amherst in the name, as he was accused of using biological warfare on Indigenous people, but Greg Scott added that Amherstburg is known for far more than for who it was originally named. Amherstburg has forged its own identity and that includes accepting people from all cultures.

“I definitely think it should be in there,” Greg said of the town’s name.

“I think there is a distinct difference between the name of the person as opposed to the name Amherstburg,” added LeClair. The town is one that “developed in its own accord,” he added.

LeClair noted that a name with Amherstburg in it was the popular choice, though also floated the name Centennial Park High School as the 819-student school is being built on the southern 15 acres of the park along Simcoe St. GECDSB public relations officer Scott Scantlebury, a resource to the committee, will research the suggested names and a second virtual meeting will be set up for the committee.

Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 11

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Admirals name Reid Stieler as team captain for 2021-22 season

By Ron Giofu A veteran presence on the Amherstburg Admirals blueline is the team’s new captain for the 2021-22 PJHL Stobbs Division season.

Amherstburg native Reid Stieler was appointed captain of the local Jr. C hockey club after having been an assistant captain the last time the team took the ice, which was in the 2019-20 season.

“It’s an honour,” said Stieler. “When I was younger on the team, those are the guys I looked up to on the ice and in the (dressing) room.”

Stieler added it is great to have the respect of not only his teammates, but the coaching staff and management as well. He said he was notified of his ascension to captain during a Zoom call last week.

“You never expect something like this,” he said.

Stieler added he tries to be a leader both on and off the ice. He is entering his fourth season with the Admirals and believes he is up to the task of being the captain.

“It comes with a lot of responsibility, and I feel ready to take that on,” said Stieler.

Part of his task as captain will be to lead his teammates through what could be another strange year. The 2020-21 PJHL season was wiped out due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the 2021-22 season could be impacted as well, depending on what public health restrictions are in place “My personal experience is I’d do just about anything to get back on the ice,” said Stieler.

It has been a long time since the Admirals were in a competitive situation but Stieler said he and his teammates are looking forward to skating together again. He pointed out such things as mini-camps and training camps have been impacted by the pandemic and the only way the team can gather right now is virtually. He said he wants to make sure the team comes together in what could be another COVIDimpacted season and stated they may have to get back in game shape quickly depending on their ability to hold training camp.

Being named captain of the Admirals is one of the biggest roles Stieler said he has had in his hockey career. While he has captained other teams, he said Jr. C is the highest level of hockey he has played at and the Admirals are the largest organization he has been involved with.

“It’s a bigger honour because there are more people involved,” he said.

Police cracking down on “unnecessary noise” within the community The Windsor Police Service states that a “targeted noise campaign” is underway to deal with concerns from the public in both Windsor and Amherstburg over noise.

The campaign got underway Monday and runs through Sept. 6. Windsor police state “there is increased public concerns about noise pollution in our communities, especially related to unnecessary vehicle noise. The focus will be on racing, squealing tires and loud vehicles (ex. no muffler).”

The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment tweeted out a reminder advising “unnecessary motor vehicle noise is not permitted” in the Town of Amherstburg per bylaw 2001-43, adding “keeping noise down ensures a happy and vibrant community.”

People who wish to file a noise complaint can do so by e-mailing bylawcomplaints@amherstburg.ca.

Stunt driving

A Harrow man faces a stunt driving charge after being stopped by police May 16. It is alleged the accused, a 29-year-old male, was travelling roughly 130 km/ hr in an 80 km/hr zone on Howard Ave. (County Road 9) near South Side Road.

Theft

A 56-year-old male of no fixed address was charged with two counts of theft over $5,000 and two counts of possession of stolen property after he was allegedly involved with a truck theft. A truck was stolen out of Windsor but police say it was found in Amherstburg. Using GPS, the truck was later tracked as it drove and it was eventually stopped in the 2300 block of Front Road in LaSalle where the accused was questioned then arrested.

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

Reid Stieler will be trading in his role as assistant captain and the “A” on his sweater for a “C” as he has been named captain of the Integrity Amherstburg Admirals for the 2021-22 season. He is pictured in an October 2019 game against the Dresden Jr. Kings. RTT File Photo

Stieler said they not only hope to win the league in the upcoming season, but they also want to do it for the 1999-born players who lost their last season of Jr. C hockey due to the COVID-19 pandemic cancelling the year. He paid tribute to all of his former teammates from that year as well as other players who were unable to finish their junior careers the way they wanted to.

“I’m excited for the year,” he added. “In speaking with my teammates, we’re all excited to get back on the ice and win it for them.”

Book Review

Harper and the Scarlet Umbrella

By Cerrie Burnell Middle Grade Fiction

Harper is an enchanting young girl who lives in the City of Clouds where it rains every day. She lives with her Aunt Sassy and her cat, Midnight in the seven floor Tall Apartment Block. On the night her Aunt is called to work, Harper finds herself in the middle of two events - one, she finally takes possession of her inheritance - the magical Scarlet Umbrella and two, Midnight the cat goes missing. Following the umbrella’s mystical directions Harper discovers that all the cats in town have gone missing and it’s up to her and her friends and her flying umbrella to save them.

Full of whimsical illustrations and inclusive of diverse and adorable characters with a musical theme throughout, this middle grade novel is the first in a series of five that is sure to be well-loved by all.

Submitted by Lori Wightman, of River Bookshop, Amherstburg

12 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

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Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 13

www.rivertowntimes.com

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

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WEEKLY, MONTHLY AND SEASONAL LAWN CUTTING. Residential and commercial. Please call Larry 519-984-7412. _______________________

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

News Tips are always welcome!

SUDOKU ANSWERS

Call Ron Giofu at the River Town Times at 519-736-4175.

May 26th LOVE & Best Wishes!

YOUR FAMILY⁷

How quickly the time has passed ...

We have been blessed to have shared 50 good years together, and hoping for many more.

Classified Advertising Deadline for the River Town Times is Monday at 12:00 noon.

Community Calendar

SCRAMBLE ANSWER

MEDICINE

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 (1-888-236-6236), 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

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.

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.

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.ca or 519-5649699 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 226-7732200.

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

14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

www.rivertowntimes.com

Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, love and romance are definitely in your favor this week. If you have been pondering setting up a date or taking a spouse out for a night on the town, do it.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Even the best partnerships can be challenging, Taurus. Right now neither one of you is looking to take the lead. Even if it means flipping a coin, someone has to step up.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, grab what you want this week, but remember that the more tightly you try to hang on to it, the more likely it will slip through your fingers. Employ some give and take.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you may be unsure of which way a relationship is leaning and waiting for the other person to make the next move.

Don’t let opportunities pass you by.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, if a supervisor seems set in his or her ways, you might have to present your proposal in language that will appeal to this person the most.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, if you are off doing your own thing, you may have to instruct others who count on you how to proceed in your absence. Keep the lines of communication open.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Other people are not mind readers, Libra. If you need something or are unhappy with a situation, you must speak up. Address concerns promptly.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 It is quite easy to manipulate a situation if others aren’t paying attention, Scorpio.

If you are guiding or mentoring someone, exercise caution to stay neutral.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Don’t get ahead of yourself by projecting scenarios that may never see the light of day, Sagittarius. It’s better to live in the present and then adjust to what comes your way.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Your thoughts may be pulling you one way and then another, Capricorn. Find focus by zeroing in on the main thing that needs the most attention at this point.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you may have to take a more reserved approach to get where you need to go. Even still, your love for adventure and freedom can be compelling motivators.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Figure out your needs before making long-term plans with others. Even though you’re sure of yourself, sometimes you let others take the lead.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MAY 23 - Melissa McBride, Actress (56) MAY 24 - Patti LaBelle, Singer (77) MAY 25 - Ally Raisman, Athlete (27) MAY 26 - Stevie Nicks, Singer (73) MAY 27 - Lily-Rose Depp, Actress (22) MAY 28 - Seth Rollins, Wrestler (35) MAY 29 - La Toya Jackson, Singer (65)

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

ANSWERS ON PAGE 13

A-Team Robotics captured the Industrial Design Award at a recent competition, though all off their work was done remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Submitted image

A-Team Robotics wins awards despite COVID-19 restrictions

By Ron Giofu Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a group of local robotics students are still winning awards.

A-Team Robotics captured the Industrial Design Award and the Designer’s Award at the recent FIRST Robotics awards, and the Amherstburg-based team did so while competing against robotics teams from around the world. The awards came as part of the FIRST Robotics Infinite Recharge season, which was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic but relaunched this year.

“We’ve managed to continue our winning streak even in the midst of a pandemic,” said Allan Parks, who is a coach/mentor of the team along with Sherri Laframboise. “It speaks volumes to how hard working, dedicated and smart these kids are.”

This most recent competition didn’t have any robots directly competing with one another due to the pandemic, Parks noted, but submissions could be sent in digitally in four categories including Innovation, At-Home Skills, At-Home Judging and Game Design.

A-Team Robotics weighed their options and entered the At-Home Judging and Game Design categories. Some of the reasoning was that other parts of the world have looser pandemic restrictions so the local team wanted to enter categories where it was a more level playing field for them.

“It was really challenging for A-Team Robotics,” said Parks.

Sherri pointed out their high grade robot did win awards at the start of the season in 2020 but their momentum was cut short when the pandemic hit. She noted that A-Team Robotics only has eight members this year, as a lot of members graduated after last year’s season ended and the pandemic presented challenges when it came to recruiting new members as only one new member was brought on board.

“We had a small but mighty team,” she said.

Parks noted they were the only team from Ontario in one of the design categories and they were competing with teams from all over the globe.

“We won our awards against teams worldwide,” he said. “We’re really proud of the team and the way they performed.”

A-Team Robotics started its season in January and had to submit its material for the competition roughly three months later. They were subsequently judged via MS Teams in both categories in which they entered.

Team member Kaeleb Mickle said they were able to get together virtually a couple of times per week over the course of the robotics season with Jacob Greason adding they also broke up into smaller groups to work on projects.

“The things we did worked out nicely for being at home,” added team member Nick Laframboise. “It’s nice to see our hard work pay off.

“Small teams can compete with bigger teams,” added Greason. “We had fun while doing it.”

Parks added they did miss getting together though. Both coaches as well as the team thanked their sponsors, which include Centreline, the University of Windsor and St. Clair College.

The team faces some rebuilding, Parks added, as even more students graduate off of this year’s team.

“Once things open up, we’re going to start recruiting again,” he said, adding it is a good opportunity for youth in Amherstburg to get involved.

“We can clearly compete with the rest of the teams in the world,” he added.

People can reach out to the team through their website, www.ateamrobotics.ca or through their Twitter or Instagram pages.

“We had a small but mighty team"

Wednesday, May 26, 2021 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

Second dose of AstraZeneca vaccine given go-ahead by the province

By RTT Staff The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and other public health experts, is proceeding with second dose administration of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

The province made the announcement Friday, adding the second doses begin with those who received their first dose of the vaccine between March 10-19.

The Ontario government states that for a limited time during the week of May 24, individuals who received their first dose of AstraZeneca during the period of March 10-19 may opt for an earlier dose interval of 10 weeks with informed consent. According to a news release from the province, “choosing to receive the second dose of AstraZeneca at the 10-week interval is safe and provides strong protection against COVID-19. This opportunity is being made available to ensure every vaccine dose possible is used to protect Ontarians during the effective delivery period.”

Eligible individuals are encouraged to contact the pharmacy or primary care provider where they received their first dose and can book an appointment beginning the week of May 24. This will begin in the regions where the AstraZeneca vaccine was initially launched in pharmacies in March 2021.

Primary care settings and pharmacies may also be reaching out to eligible Ontarians.

On May 11, following the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Williams, the province paused the rollout and administration of first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine. The province states that decision “was made out of an abundance of caution due to an observed increase in an adverse reaction, known as vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT), linked to the AstraZeneca vaccine. Ontario is working closely with health experts to continuously review the data for the use of AstraZeneca for first doses.”

The decision to pause was also based on the increased and more reliable supply of the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines and the downward trend in cases, the government stated in its news release.

Nearly one million Ontarians aged 40 and over received the AstraZeneca vaccine as their first dose between March 10 and May 11. Data from the UK strongly suggests a much-reduced risk of VITT in second doses of AstraZeneca – one in 600,000. Based on this evidence, the province states it is committed to ensuring Ontarians who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for their first dose, and who do not receive their second dose at the 10-week interval during the week of May 24, will have the ability to receive a second dose of AstraZeneca within the recommended interval of 12 weeks.

The province adds it is working with primary care providers and pharmacies to ensure second dose appointments are scheduled in advance of the 12-week interval, and will provide further information on how individuals who received their first dose of AstraZeneca can book a second dose appointment in the near future.

“The province is also looking closely at available data and evidence from a clinical trial in the UK evaluating the administration of two doses of different vaccines and has requested direction from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI). At this time, NACI does not recommend that vaccines of different types (e.g., mRNA vaccine and viral vector vaccine) be used in the two-dose series, as data on the immune response following mixed vaccine schedules are not yet available. Further information from clinical trials and NACI’s recommendation are anticipated to be available in June 2021,” the news release adds.

The province says it will provide further guidance with respect to administering doses of two different vaccines in the near future and in advance of the 12-week interval when most people are needing to receive their second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine. When the time comes to receive a second dose, everyone who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine will receive either an AstraZeneca or mRNA vaccine for their second dose.

“Nothing is more important than the health of Ontarians, and for the best protection against COVID-19 it is vital that everyone who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for their first dose receives a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine,” said Dr. David Williams. “We are providing these individuals with a safe option based on the available data and evidence and will continue to work with Health Canada to monitor the quality and efficacy of all COVID-19 vaccines being used in Ontario.”

As more Ontarians receive a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, with over 7.7 million doses administered to date, providing the second dose of the vaccine will offer the best protection possible against COVID-19 and variants, and support provincial vaccination targets as part of Ontario’s Roadmap to Reopen.

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting, by electronic means, on Monday, June 14, 2021 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act. THE SUBJECT LANDS affected by this by-law encompass one phase of the Kingsbridge Subdivision development. Phase 10 is located in the west side of Knobb Hill and legally described as Concession 1, Part of Lots 11, 12, 13 and 14. (see key map below) THE PURPOSE OF THE AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY-LAW No. 1999-52 is to change the zoning of the subject lands noted above from the “Residential Type 1A (R1A) Zone” and “Residential Second Density Zone/ Residential Multiple First Density (R2/RM1) Zone” to “Residential First Density (R1) Zone” and “Site Specific Residential Second Density Zone/Residential Multiple First Density (R2-7/RM1) Zone”. The parcel is designated Low Density Residential in the Town’s Official Plan.

THE EFFECT OF THE ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT will be to allow for general residential uses on the subject properties with 35% lot coverage for single detached dwellings and 47% lot coverage for semi-detached dwellings, whereas the current zoning permits 30% lot coverage for single detached dwellings and 35% lot coverage for semi-detached dwellings.

COVID-19 Emergency: During the COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency (declared by the Province of Ontario and the Town of Amherstburg under the provisions of Section 7.0.1 and Section 4(1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.E.9, respectively) Town of Amherstburg Council is holding electronic meetings, and in-person meeting attendance is restricted. Any person, who wishes to make representation is required to do so in writing.

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Planner, Frank Garardo at planning@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off in the vestibule of the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, 2021 before the hearing and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 10, 2021. To register for electronic participation please email the Deputy Clerk at tfowkes@amherstburg.ca. Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

NO PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the bylaw was passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to the Council or, in the opinion of the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Town of Amherstburg before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there is reasonable grounds to do so.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/12/21) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law is also availableisfor review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca.

If you Amendment also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing By-law Amendment, must make a written request to the Town at the address below. by livestream by visiting you www.amherstburg.ca.

The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 20th day of May, 2021.

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 20th day of May, 2021.

KEY MAP

Frank Garardo, MCIP, RPP Manager of Planning Services Town of Amherstburg Libro FrankCentre Garardo, MCIP, RPP Manager of Planning 3295 Meloche Road Services Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Town of Amherstburg Telephone: (519) 736-5408 Libro Centre Fax No. (519) 736-9859 3295 Meloche Road Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Website: www.amherstburg.ca Telephone: (519) 736-5408 Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website: www.amherstburg.ca

Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If you want to learn more about why and how the Town collects your information, write to the Town Clerk’s Office, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, May 26, 2021

www.rivertowntimes.com

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG

NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting, by electronic means, on Monday, June 14, 2021 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 199952, under Section 34 of the Planning Act. THE SUBJECT LANDS affected by the proposed amendment are described as Part of Lot 94, Concession 8, municipally known as the farm parcel severed from 8121 Alma Street. The property is vacant agricultural land and the total area subject to the rezoning is 39.23 hectares (96.95 acres) ±. (see key map below) THE PURPOSE OF THE AMENDMENT TO ZONING BY-LAW No. 1999-52 is to change the zoning of the subject lands noted above from the “Agricultural (A) Zone” to “Special Provision Agricultural (A-36) Zone”. The parcel is designated Agricultural in the Town’s Official Plan. The lands described above are subject to an application for consent (File B/17/21) to sever a dwelling which is surplus to the needs of a farming operation.

THE EFFECT OF THE ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT will be to allow for general agricultural use on the subject property and prohibit any new dwelling unit on the land. The “Special Provision Agricultural (A-36) Zone” is established as a site specific zone for the retained agricultural parcel created through consent, to prohibit new residential uses on these lands.

COVID-19 Emergency: During the COVID-19 Declaration of Emergency (declared by the Province of Ontario and the Town of Amherstburg under the provisions of Section 7.0.1 and Section 4(1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.E.9, respectively) Town of Amherstburg Council is holding electronic meetings, and in-person meeting attendance is restricted. Any person, who wishes to make representation is required to do so in writing.

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Planner, Frank Garardo at fgarardo@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off in the vestibule of the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 10, 2021 before the hearing and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 10, 2021. To register for electronic participation please email the Deputy Clerk at tfowkes@amherstburg.ca.

Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at

the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

NO PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the bylaw was passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to the Council or, in the opinion of the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Town of Amherstburg before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there is reasonable grounds to do so.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/07/21) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department is also available for review on thehours, Town of8:30 Amherstburg www.amherstburg.ca.

If you By-law Office during normal office a.m. to Website: 4:30 p.m.

The proposed Zoning wish to be notified of the available passage of for the proposed Zoning you must make www.

Amendment is also review on the By-law Town Amendment, of Amherstburg Website: a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca.

Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing byth livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 19 day of May, 2021.

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 19th day of May, 2021.

KEY MAP

Frank Garardo, MCIP, RPP Manager of Planning Services

Frank Garardo, MCIP, RPP Manager of Planning Services

Town of Amherstburg

LibroofCentre Town Amherstburg Libro 3295Centre Meloche Road 3295 Meloche Road Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Telephone: (519) 736-5408 Telephone: (519) 736-5408 Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website:www.amherstburg.ca www.amherstburg.ca Website: Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If you want to learn more about why and how the Town collects your information, write to the Town Clerk’s Office, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.

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