River Town Times - June 12, 2024

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Garden Tour highlights horticultural talents

By Ron Giofu

Private and public gardens were on display last weekend for the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society’s (AFMHS) Garden Tour.

A total of ten gardens, all private gardens except for the Gibson Gallery and the AFMHS’ signature garden at the Amherstburg Community Hub, were toured by people from the area and beyond. Organizers were pleased with the amount of people that strolled through the gardens.

“The numbers seem much higher this year,” said AFMHS president Janice Emery. “We’re seeing a good turnout and everyone seems happy with the way they are organized.”

Attendees commented on how different each garden was and how well they were laid out and managed.

Emery said the gardens that are selected have to be done by the homeowner. Perennial gardens are preferred

The Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society (AFMHS) presented the return of its Garden Tour over the weekend. A backyard garden on Fort St. was one of the ten gardens featured this year.

and the AFMHS also considers the maturity of plants, texture, colour and variety for the Garden Tour, which is held every two years.

“We want to see uniqueness and pride of ownership,” said Emery.

Only two members saw their gardens on the tour, held both Saturday and Sunday, with most of the gardens being new to the tour. Emery said her Concession 2 North garden was on the tour almost ten years ago but said it looks different now than what it did then.

“It’s so rewarding as a homeowner to have someone look at the effort you put in your garden and appreciate it,” stated Emery. Partnerships were developed with the Gibson Gallery and the town’s tourism department, Emery added, with the former being tied into the gallery’s “Blossoms, Blooms and Buds” exhibit which runs through June 23.

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North Star High School held its prom last Friday night, which included the traditional photo sessions in King’s Navy Yard Park. Keira Jurilj and Carter Maynard were among the couples who attended. See more photos on Page 9.

Options rejected for Open Air boundary expansion for this year

By Ron Giofu

There will be no extension to the Open Air Weekends footprint this year, but the door is still left open for 2025.

Four options were presented to town council in a report by deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne with town council merely opting to receive the report without choosing any of those options. Businesses along the southern edge of the boundary along Dalhousie St. expressed interest in being allowed into the footprint, citing business dropoff by being outside of the boundary.

Options presented to town council included creating a new access through the King’s Navy Yard Park extension, a barrier around the on-street parking in front of the Queen Charlotte condominiums, barriers at the entrance to Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 that would be monitored and moved for access to the condominiums across the street and a “zig-zag” entrance to the Queen Charlotte site.

Osborne’s report stated administration “strongly discourages” the first three option due to their risks but called the fourth option – the “zig zag” entrance -feasible, though with risks of its own.

Mayor Michael Prue asked about the costs for the latter option and was told it would be between $4,000$11,000 depending on the type of barriers.

Councillor Peter Courtney said the same type of concerns weren’t identified at the northern edge of the boundary along Dalhousie St., and wondered what the difference was between the Queen Charlotte condominiums and the Salmoni Condominiums.

“(Salmoni owners) are right in the heart of that thing

and have to go through a public parking lot,” he said. “Why is iy so difficult to get a solution just further down?”

Osborne said the barriers on the north end are put south of the entrance to the lot where the south end see the barriers allow Queen Charlotte owners to get access to their building. Businesses on the north end have not expressed concerns about being able to be part of Open Air Weekends, she said.

Councillor Linden Crain said all four options present risks to pedestrians, he believed. He also wanted to know how space could be “activated” to draw more space to the south end of the footprint.

Osborne said she has been in discussions with Flow Cafe and Bikes ownership on how to program space near the business to bring more people down that way. Councillor Don McArthur suggested the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 could set up a booth in the Open Air footprint to attract new members and to spread the word on events the Legion presents. Osborne said she could follow up on McArthur’s suggestion. Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon said she expects to hear from the province regarding the opening of the King’s Navy Yard Park by late August. Work that still has to be done could mean fencing might come down late this year or early next year. Prue noted Osborne’s report that additional options could be available once the extension lands are open, with Osborne saying “more momentum” could be created once people are able to start walking through the property.

Prue said forgoing the expenditure this year and having a better option next year once the park extension

opens could be the better way to proceed.

“If you are going to do something, do it well,” said Prue. “Next year, we’ll do it well. There’s no sense in doing a half-measure here that isn’t going to work, going to cost a lot of money and could be dangerous.”

Courtney noted he dined in Kingsville recently and said brochures that were presented, created in partnership with Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI), and featured QR codes to help market businesses there.

“It was genius to me and TWEPI supported it,” he said. Courtney said he wouldn’t support any of the options due to cost, risk and what could happen once the King’s Navy Yard extension is complete.

McArthur said he is a big supporter of Open Air Weekends but supported simply receiving the report without adopting any of the recommendations. He also wanted to wait for the park extension to be opened and thanked administration for its work on the report.

“We’re square-pegging a round hole,” he said. “It doesn’t make sense in this instance.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said ideally there would be a great solution to the issue this year “but we’re just not there.” Gibb said spending money from reserves this year on a less than ideal solution was not the way to go.

“That’s a bridge too far for me,” said Gibb.

Councillor Molly Allaire said she has attended all six days of Open Air this year and credited staff for emphasizing businesses outside the footprint. She said student workers hand out information with other events and businesses.

The motion to receive the report only carried unanimously.

Residents oppose creation of secondary dwelling unit on Laird Ave.

By Ron Giofu

While Amherstburg town council has not made a decision on a zoning bylaw amendment that would allow for a secondary dwelling unit in front of a Laird Ave. home, it is clear the neighbours want nothing to do with it.

A two-hour planning meeting was held prior to the start of Monday night’s regular discussion, with the issue of 24 Laird Ave. taking up a good chunk of that time. The request for a secondary dwelling unit (SDU) saw numerous residents oppose the proposal, claiming it would not only impact their neighbourhood but could lead to it impacting all of Amherstburg.

According to a report from town planner Janine Mastronardi, a zoning bylaw amendment is being proposed to change the zoning from Special Provision Residential First Density (R1-8) to Special Provision Residential First Density (R1-16).

The report states: “The applicant is proposing a small addition and total renovation of the existing accessory structure on the subject parcel to accommodate a Secondary Dwelling Unit (SDU). The purpose of the rezoning will be to grant permission for a SDU to be located within an existing accessory structure which is located in the front yard. The proposed rezoning will also allow for an increase in setback between the SDU and primary dwelling from the permitted 20 m to 48.7 m, an increase in building height from the permitted 5.5 m to 7.0 m and an increase in accessory structure lot coverage from the permitted 100 sq m to 107.5 sq m. The existing accessory structure is 6.46 m in height. All other existing R1-8 provisions are proposed to remain the same i.e. uses, setbacks, lot coverage etc.”

The report also noted that the existing zoning bylaw allows for a secondary dwelling unit in a rear yard or an interior side yard, not a front yard as is being proposed.

“The applicant is proposing a small addition with the same interior side yard setback as currently exists and a total renovation of the existing accessory structure on the subject parcel to accommodate a Secondary Dwelling Unit (SDU). The purpose of the rezoning is to grant permission for an SDU to be located within an existing accessory structure which is located in the front yard,” Mastronardi’s report states.

Proponent Marco Savoni told council and the packed council chambers his intent is to use the property for personal uses, as Councillor Diane Pouget had earlier wondered if it could be used for a short-term rental or bed and breakfast. Administration later said a bed and breakfast was not allowed but would have to check into the short-term rental provisions.

Savoni said he’s been trying to move to Laird Ave. for “quite some time” and said he loves the town.

“It’s a spectacular area,” he said. “I was fortunate enough to acquire 24 Laird Ave. South. My intention is to use it for personal use.”

Savoni said he thought it would be a “great fit to acquire that property and ultimately use it for personal use.” He said he has no intention to use it as a short-term rental such as an airBnB.

“We’d like to get construction started there as soon as possible,” he said.

Savoni said he has already spent approximately $25,000 on hydro upgrades and another $100,000-plus on breakwall upgrades.

“The reason for the accessory building and to have a dwelling unit there

seemed like the right fit,” said Savoni. “I could have children living there.”

Noting his son has shown interest in the unit, Savoni added if it was not him it could be his mother or a caregiver of

GOT A

MINUTE?

the property.

Savoni added any property he has owned in the town has “been improved and well maintained.”

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New display one of highlights at “Ribs & Ragtime” fundraiser

By Fred Groves

In 1934 a group of women in the Windsor-Essex region got together and formed what was then known as the “Mothers Club.”

Now 90 years later and since renamed “The Hour a Day Study Group,” it is still going strong and on Saturday at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, a display was featured to honour the group.

It was all part of the annual “Ribs and Ragtime” fundraising event which was held at the museum on King Street.

“This is one of our biggest fundraisers. We have a number of folks, I’d say about 60 percent that are here who have been to our events. You get a chance to support your local community,” said Museum president Monty Logan.

There were several political dignitaries in attendance including Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb and Windsor-Tecumseh Member of Parliament Irek Kusmierczyk.

“The Hour a Day Study Group” became heavily involved in social justice, advocacy, activism and education and over the years have provided financial support to deserving students to help further their educational pursuits.

“It’s been a great organization,” said Logan who was

a past recipient of the group’s generosity.

They started with the financial support in 1946 and along the way the club has been active in promoting the rights of young women of colour and at one time helped a black woman to get admitted into a nursing training program.

“Ribs and Ragtime” is just one of the fundraising events that help to keep the doors open at the museum.

Logan said that the museum has several sources of revenue, including grants and notes that it is important that the non-profit organization does not get all its funding from one source.

Nearly 200 people showed up on Saturday to support the museum and he said it was estimated the night would raise close to $10,000.

Asked what would happen if the fundraisers were not successful, he said, “we would find alternative sources. We try and not have just one source. We try and make sure that one particular source is not more than 10 per cent of our budget.”

Next up for the Amherstburg Freedom Museum is Emancipation Celebration Dinner and Dance Aug. 2 and the Walter Perry Golf Classic Aug. 10. The museum is open six days a week, visit their website at www.amherstburgfreedom.org for information or call 519-736-5433.

Beavertails franchise coming to Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

A Canadian franchise known for its signature pastries is coming to Amherstburg.

Beavertails is setting up an Amherstburg location and while a location and opening date have yet to be revealed, the news of the franchise coming to town has been confirmed by its franchisees via social media.

“Breaking news,” wrote George Winter online. “Karrie Maine and I are very excited to announce a Beavertails franchise is coming to our beautiful town. We will have our very own Beavertails in Amherstburg. More details to follow in the near future.”

When contacted by the River Town Times, Winter indicated the two business partners are not ready to announce the location or opening date just yet,

and would rather wait over the next few weeks to reveal that information.

Beavertails is now an international business with over 150 shops worldwide. According to their website, in addition to shops in Canada, there are Beavertails locations in the United States, Dubai, Japan, France and Mexico. The business dates back to 1978 when founders Pam and Grant Hooker began serving the

Beavertails pastries at the Killaloe Fair near Ottawa.

In addition to a variety of different Beavertail pastries, there are “Beaver Bites,” poutine, “poutail” (poutine served on a Beavertails pastry, “Beaverdogs” (hot dog wrapped in a Beavertail) and other treats.

More information on the Beavertails franchises can be found at www. beavertails.com.

There was a lot of good eats dished out Saturday night at the Freedom Museum’s annual Ribs and Ragtime fundraising event.

No money for dock removal

Amherstburg town council was told Monday night there was no specific money allocated federally for the demolition of the former Boblo dock on Front Road South. CAO Valerie Critchley said her contact at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) stated while there is no funding identified specifically for the removal of the dock, the DFO would look through existing budgets to see if they can find any money for the project. Councillor Peter Courtney said it was “terrible” that no money was identified specifically for the project, and suggested the town remove it and bill the federal government. Critchley advised against that. Council, through a motion from Councillor Don McArthur, directed Mayor Michael Prue follow up with Essex MP Chris Lewis and Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk.

Information from meeting to be summarized in future report to town council

Continued from Page 2

Among the concerns of neighbour Daryll Fogal was the proposed size of the structure, the latter to house a garage for the main house plus the SDU.

“This thing is a giant,” Fogal told town council.

Sight lines would be obstructed, Fogal maintained, and worried about the occupants of the SDU being able to see into his and his neighbours’ homes. Views could extend into his library and another neighbours’ bedroom from what Fogal referred to as “surveillance platforms.”

According to Fogal, the proposed structure would be too big for the area and too far from the main home, estimating the latter to be half a football field away.

Fogal added Laird Ave. would not only be impacted, but it could set up other neighbourhoods for similar situations. If the zoning bylaw amendment is granted, it could lead to issues in at least 12 other neighbourhoods in Amherstburg, Fogal estimated.

“It’s a bad precedent to set,” he said.

Fogal asked council if the public has

been consulted, adding “this isn’t a Laird Ave. thing.”

“This is not right for Amherstburg. It’s not right for Laird Ave.,” he told town council.

Ron Timothy encouraged town council members to view the site for themselves.

“I really don’t believe this is going to be good for the town or for Laird Ave.,” Timothy maintained. “I don’t think anyone of you wants to see it in your yards.”

Grace Zec, another Laird Ave. neighbour, said Amherstburg is known for its unique charm, including its historical significance and natural beauty. Zec, whose family owned the former Duffy’s Tavern and Motor Inn, said she has won numerous tourism and hospitality awards and believed granting the amendment would “change the gateway to town” that is Laird Ave.

“It’s not just another street,” she said, at one point calling it “the golden mile.”

“We are united in opposition to this,” said Zec.

Joe Gorski, another resident in the neighbourhood, said he was “in awe” of the amount of support there was against the request. He said he has “strong

opposition to the zoning bylaw change.”

“We’re all standing firm on this,” said Gorski. “We want the historical area to stay the way it is.”

Ed Debevc also said he was opposed, noting he and others have chosen Amherstburg to retire in. He believed granting the request would go against town plans. Debevc also referred to Laird Ave. as “the gateway street” into the community and wanted the current bylaw to be upheld.

“I don’t see where there is a need to change it,” he said.

Debevc asked council “why are you compromising all of your principles for one property?” but Mayor Michael Prue said there has been no pressure to make any changes on the street. Prue added council has the obligation to hear the matter as the proponent has made an application.

Phil Kasurak, another area resident, said there are issues relating to height, side yard relief and distance between the SDU and the main home among other matters, and called for council to refuse the request.

“To me, this whole thing is unworkable,” he believed.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Kasurak was another neighbour who thought other requests similar to this could arise if council grants it.

Deputy CAO Melissa Osborne stated that while administration has not yet had the opportunity to present recent changes of Bill 23 in a report to town council, she indicated appeal rights would only lie with the town, public entities and the proponent.

“The province has taken away more rights,” Prue charged. “That town can appeal and the applicant can appeal.”

Councillor Peter Courtney believed height would be an issue, indicating he would be more open to seeing a home built elsewhere on the property versus the proposed addition. Sight lines and setbacks were among Courtney’s concerns.

If the buildings on the site are renovated, Mastronardi told town council they would have to tap into the town’s sewer system as the property is on a septic system right now.

Administration will take the information gathered at the meeting and prepare a report for a future council meeting. That will likely occur some time over the summer.

Resident unimpressed with recent presentation on transportation master plan

The presentation by TYlin Consulting was lackluster and uninformative.

I wondered if they ignored 75 per cent of Amherstburg’s transportation

I attended the May 27 Amherstburg town council meeting. This was one of the most unproductive and embarrassing displays of municipal government that I have ever seen. Most of the meeting dealt with the Transportation Master Plan. How could administration even begin the process of hiring a transportation consultant without first finding out what Amherstburg residents might want/need for future transportation?

routes because that was their mandate from administration, or if they were just ignorant of how much more there is to our municipality than downtown Amherstburg?

How much did this incomplete plan cost?

Why did they not address the needs of our agricultural landowners? Where is future planning for expanded industrial transport requirements? Did they consider the needs for better road infrastructure to accommodate the massive residential expansion already taking place now and in the future? Are they even aware that there is still a railway line to Amherstburg? They did not mention it? To use this “Master Plan” as a template for the future is a sad joke.

I am ashamed of three of our councillors and our Mayor for voting to even consider moving forward with any part of this Master Plan in Principal or otherwise!

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County council members increase their own pay by over 130%

By Fred Groves

A big raise for municipal representatives who sit on the Essex County council.

Last Wednesday, county council members voted in favour of giving themselves what amounts to an over 135 percent increase.

Base salary in 2023 for mayors and deputy mayors who represent the seven local municipalities was $13,211.65. Retroactive back to January, it will now be upped to $31,302. (This is above what they earn for sitting on their own local councils.)

As part of an outside consultant’s report, the position of deputy warden will increase from $16,163.54 to $40,938 while that of the warden stays basically the same going from $92,896.86 to $92,987.

“For me to sit at this table and be adequately compensated is the right thing to do,” said Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy.

It was Bondy who initiated the increase back in December which prompted county administration to seek out ML Consulting which did a compensation review and comparison.

In her report, consultant Marianna Love looked at compensation from several other counties including Elgin, Lambton, Middlesex, Lennox and Addington, Oxford, Huron, Simcoe, Grey and the Region of Halton.

“The primary objective of the 2024 Council Compensation Study was to conduct a review of base pay and other compensation elements,” wrote Love in her report.

“When you compare the positions, it’s not about individuals sitting around this table. It’s about doing what the position pays and what the fairness is,” said Bachetti.

He added that being a member of Essex County council requires as much time if not more than representing the local municipality.

“It’s fortunate it’s been done the right way,” said Bondy of the study. “It’s unfortunate it wasn’t done previously. This council has been so underpaid.”

Both Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb were outspoken against the increase and Prue went as far as saying that he will be donating his increase, which is $18,090.35, to charity.

“I cannot support this. I do not believe that it’s in the interest of the county council or the democratic process to do so,” said Prue of the increase.

Prue went on to say that when he was a member of the Toronto City Council and the provincial legislature that when it came to significant pay raises, that the hike should not be immediate and that in the past he has also donated some of his compensation to charity.

“I don’t agree with the amount of money we are about to give ourselves. It’s going to be broadcast at 125 to 130 per cent increase in our wages,” said Prue.

Bondy countered by saying that it’s great that Prue can donate to charity but it is because he is in a privileged position and has a pension from being an MPP of which the Amherstburg mayor quickly disputed.

In order to satisfy the issue of retroactive pay back

Deputy Warden Joe Bachetti, also the deputy mayor of Tecumseh, who will see a yearly pay raise of nearly $25,000 said it was good to have the data on what other counties were receiving.

County to proceed with organic waste collection

By Fred Groves

In an attempt to get more life out of its regional landfill, Essex County is moving ahead with a separated organics collection program.

At last Wednesday night’s council meeting, it was decided to go ahead with the program, which, according to Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) general manager Michelle Bishop, has the potential of diverting up to 45 percent of the current waste that goes into the landfill.

While council opted to go with the program that will collect food and organic waste, there was a lot of debate on whether or not both rural and urban households should be included.

Bishop said that the company that will be doing the collection, Miller Waste Systems has provided the urban cost for the approximately 57,000 rural households to be $5.98 million and for the 11,700 rural, $2.007 million per year.

One of the arguments on the night was if the county puts the cost on the general tax levy and just go with urban collection, those living in rural areas would be paying for a service they would not receive.

Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue said that just because he does not use the Libro Centre, he still pays for it because it is a betterment for the entire community.

“I pay because it’s for the benefit of everyone. Picking up garbage is for the benefit of everyone,” said Prue.

After much debate, council opted for all approximately 69,000 households in the county to be included in the new program.

“Do you want to save the planet or are you worried someone might have to pay a little more

tax?” questioned Prue.

The contract to pick up the food and organic waste has been awarded to Miller Waste Systems which, according to Bishop has 30 contracts in the province including Ottawa.

Bishop said that the contract with them is for seven years with an option of a two-year extension.

“Considering this is a new program, we are pleased with the pricing provided,” said Bishop.

Bishop added that purchasing of new trucks, route design and hiring and training will be of a significant cost for Miller System.

“We’re not trend setters,” noted Bishop of collecting organic waste.

“We are one of the last large regions to implement this program.”

A few months ago, Essex County council rejected having one regular household waste collector contract for the entire region and individual municipalities went ahead in renewing their own contracts.

“Each individual has a responsibility to do something about the environment and this is a start,” said Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara about the organic waste collection program.

Summons issued after single-vehicle crash

The Windsor Police Service –Amherstburg Detachment issued a summons to a local driver after a recent crash.

Police say a vehicle on Concession 5 North, just south of County Road 10 (Middle Side Road), left the roadway and entered the ditch. The singlevehicle crash was reported May 30 and police add there were no serious injuries. According to police, the driver was issued summons for no insurance and no valid permit.

to January 1, the county will have to dip into its rate stabilization reserve fund for $292,056.

“I cannot sit here and take money away from reserves. I think the taxpayers expect more of us. I know we all deserve raises,” said Prue.

Gibb said that the compensation study was important and that if they were looking to phase in the increase and begin it next year, he would be in favour.

“To me, I can’t justify pulling that kind of money out of reserves to pay for an operational expense,” said Gibb.

Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt said the increase should be a budgeted item and considered for 2025.

Financial implications heading into the 2025 budget will require an increase of about $238,900 to cover the wage hike.

“I am torn by this because I understand the time we put into this does not equate to the coin in the jar,” said LaSalle Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata who voted against the raises.

Memories

Amherstburg 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org

Photo courtesy of Debra Honor Marsh Historical Collection

McGregor Music Festival plays to large crowds at Co-An Park

By Ron Giofu

The 33rd annual McGregor Music Festival was held over the weekend with large crowds on hand to enjoy the music, classic cars and to support the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation.

The festival was presented at Co-An Park in McGregor all day Sunday with eight bands, the popular pig auction, a classic car show, raffles, door prizes and food available for the hundreds that attended. By mid-afternoon, festival organizing committee chair Sue LeClair estimated that 750 people were on the grounds of Co-An Park, with vehicles not only parking in the lot closest to the pavilion but along the roadway near the Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum side of the park.

LeClair said it was a mix of people that attended, with familiar faces that come every year and those who are new to

the event coming out. The fact the sun was out much of the day and temperatures were cool brought people out, with LeClair pointing out the success of the event depends on the weather.

“It’s a beautiful day,” said LeClair.

“We have 75 cars which brings its own people. It’s a beautiful day to come out.”

Bands included C2C with Charlene, Lookin’ Back, the All Nighters, Bad Moustache, Jammin’ for Wellness, Kenny & the Cruisers, Exit 31 and Crow Bar Hotel getting about 45 minutes each to perform. The latter was a new band, LeClair added, with much of the rest being returning bands.

A rib dinner was added to the event last year and the success of that led to it being brought back this year. The grand prize for the raffle was two tickets to anywhere West Jet flies with grocery cards, NHL and OHL hockey tickets, gas cards, rounds of golf, televisions, air

purifiers, vacuums, artwork and wine were among the raffle prizes.

“Our sponsors kick butt,” said LeClair. “We are thankful for our sponsors. Without them, we couldn’t do this.”

The McGregor Music Festival follows a similar format year-after-year with the committee wanting to stick with what works. It raised approximately $72,000 to the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation in 2023 with the goal to surpass it this year.

“We need to step up the technology and we need the money to do that for the cancer centre foundation,” said LeClair. “That’s why we do it.”

Proceeds benefit patient care and the patient assistance fund this year, she added. The total will be revealed at a wrap-up barbecue for the committee and the cancer centre foundation next month at LeClair’s home.

“Thank you to my committee,”

she said. “Thank you to the people who come out and make it happen.” Windsor-Essex Cancer Centre Foundation executive director Houida Kassem was also grateful for the support.

“A big thank you to our community once again for making such a big impact on the cancer community. We couldn’t do this without you,” said Kassem. Kassem believed the event went well and there was “non-stop excitement” at the festival.

“The bands are amazing. It’s so much fun,” she said.

The festival has a “huge” effect on what the Windsor Cancer Centre can offer. She said they allow people to get the cancer treatment they need closer to home.

“It’s community involvement like this that is valuable on what we do. We don’t want people to travel up the 401 to get to their treatments,” she said.

Bad Moustache was one of the eight bands that performed at the McGregor Music Festival last Sunday (left) while roughly 75 cars participated in the car show portion of the event (right).

Fraud prevention seminar held to educate the public

By Ron Giofu

With a number of different frauds attempting to swindle the public out of their money, a local credit union attempted to educate people on them.

Libro Credit Union welcomed Const. Nick Dupuis, the community services officer with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, for a recent fraud prevention seminar at the Libro Centre. Approximately 35 people attended the session. Dupuis pointed out that the Amherstburg Detachment has already investigated 26 fraud complaints in the first three months of 2024. He said the goal of the seminar was to help people stay safe.

“We have to stop giving away our money,” he said. Frauds impact people of all ages, not just seniors, and Dupuis said it has gone from a time where it was notable when people received a telemarketing call to the point where it is now a regular occurrence. He noted fraud is different from theft in that people who are victimized by fraud are tricked into willingly giving away their money.

“These scams can be so good that it is hard to identify them,” he said. “There should be no shame or embarrassment about fraud. A lot of people don’t report it. Everyone is being victimized.”

Scammers often follow detailed scripts and keep asking people questions until they get the answers they are looking for, which is usually personal information.

“If you give them any information, they are going to try and get more and more,” he said.

Tips given by Dupuis included not giving money away, for people to “be a detective” and ask a lot of questions, change PIN numbers every three to six months, not using personal information such as birthdays or anniversaries in a PIN, to “slow down” and consider what the person is offering and asking for second opinions from friends and family.

The first scam Dupuis warned of was the bank inspector fraud. He said a caller will contact a suspecting victim wanted to perform an “integrity check” on their money. People may also be asked to

wire money to another account.

“Once the money is gone, it will not be returned to you ever,” said Dupuis. “Banks conduct their own investigations. They will not ask clients to assist with them.”

The “grandparents scheme” was also reviewed, with Dupuis stating older people are contacted by a person claiming to be a grandchild or other relative. The caller will say they are in trouble, need money, but asks not to tell their parents.

“We have to be detectives. Ask questions to confirm more information,” said Dupuis.

Should the caller start getting information wrong, people should hang up the phone, Dupuis advised. If a caller claims to be in jail, bail is not accepted over the phone, by wire transfer or gift cards.

The “romance scheme,” otherwise known as “catfishing,” sees people lured into a relationship via phone or internet and often sees the scammer not willing to actually meet the person they are involved with. Dupuis said such relationships could last for several years and lead to scammers building up a level of trust and then asking the people for money.

“Once they get money, they are going to ask for more money,” said Dupuis. “Never send money to someone you haven’t met.”

The “prize scam” involves people contacted about supposedly winning a prize or contest, only to be

asked to pay for insurance, legal fees or other expenses.

“When you are the winner of a legitimate prize, you never have to pay for the prize,” said Dupuis. Dupuis added: “You can’t win a contest if you didn’t enter into it.”

The “computer repair scam” sees a person contacted via phone or e-mail with the scammer claiming there is an issue with their computer.

“Once they have access to your computer, there are all kinds of tricks they can do,” said Dupuis.

Often, the person pulling the scam will tell the victim to check their bank accounts with the goal being to gain access to them.

“If your computer is running fine, there is no reason to try and repair it,” said Dupuis. “No one knows if you have problems unless they see it. Never give a stranger access to your computer.”

The public was also advised of the “online shopping scam” with people being lured in by favourable online prices and told to send money to “hold” an item. Not only should people not send money in those cases, they should not agree to meet in unsafe areas to make transactions. Dupuis advised people not to pay for items they haven’t received yet and to go online or use other means to evaluate the seller. If something looks suspicious, don’t proceed with the transaction.

“Phishing” was also covered, with that also being known as website spoofing. Scammers are often seeking personal information and use websites that often resemble those of legitimate companies. The public should watch for spelling and grammar mistakes and for suspicious-looking website links.

“If you are nervous about it, call someone,” he said.

The “CRA scam” was discussed with Dupuis stating the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will never phone, text or e-mail people asking for personal information. Calls claiming a person will go to jail for owing money are fraudulent, with Dupuis stating the CRA doesn’t work with the police.

“The CRA will not solicit the police to make arrests,” he said.

Continued on Page 13

Const. Nick Dupuis speaks at a recent fraud prevention seminar.

“Ghost figures” to be included in next month’s Art Crawl

By Ron Giofu

Flowery figures from days gone by will be featured at next month’s Amherstburg Art Crawl.

The Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society (AFMHS) will be one of the organizations taking part in the Art Crawl the weekend of July 20-21. Part of their contributions will be the “ghost figures” that will be in King’s Navy Yard Park.

Members of the public who participate in the Art Crawl will be able to take a flower and place it into a wire screen that has been shaped into three female figures resembling women from a bygone era.

Volunteers with the AFMHS have named the figures “Ruby,” “Annabelle” and “Paulette.”

Carole Deschaine, a board member with the AFMHS, said during the development of the Art Crawl, she approached Richard Peddie, one of the organizers, and suggested the AFMHS could be part of it.

“I petitioned Richard that gardens are art,” she said, noting elements of art are part of the gardening process from textures to height and

more.

Deschaine said Peddie liked the idea and invited them to participate.

“A garden is a natural palette,” said Deschaine.

Art Amherstburg, the group that has been formed to help plan this year’s Art Crawl, invited the AFMHS to return and the horticultural society volunteers brainstormed and came up with the “ghost figures” idea.

The figures were created from patterns and made with wire over the winter in the basement of AFMHS board member Colleen Troup.

Andrea Dyrkacz, AFMHS vice president, said the idea of “ghost figures” represents the many people that have passed through the area over the years, from the Indigenous Peoples, to enslaved people and those who fought in battles during conflicts like the War of 1812.

The figures will represent the past and the present and although the flowers will die in a day or two, the memories will continue.

Deschaine added the public will be able to decorate the “ghost figures” following the 2 p.m. Saturday walk. AFMHS president Janice Emery said they will be located near the society’s “signature garden” in the northeast corner of the park.

Emery agreed that gardens are art and was happy to see the creative process in action. New members have been joining the AFMHS in recent years, Emery added, and they are bringing forth new ideas. She added the society is building and expanding its own networks and that includes with the town’s tourism department and the Gibson Gallery.

For more information on the Amherstburg Art Crawl, visit www.artamherstburg.ca.

Strawberries in the spotlight in LaSalle

By Fred Groves

The Avalanche, the Monkey Maze and the Jumping Jumbo amusement rides all made their appearance at the annual LaSalle Strawberry Festival this past weekend but they were upstaged by the headliner, delicious local strawberries.

“Being our 36th year, it’s become a tradition and a kickoff for summer. It’s a great family event, people come for strawberries and ice cream,” said LaSalle manager of culture and recreation Scott Bisson.

A few years ago, the festival was held on Front Road but the switch over to the Vollmer Centre certainly has its benefits. Bisson said there are five parking lots around the complex and the location does not disrupt other parts of the town.

The festival officially kicked off Wednesday night with over 130 volunteers showing up to wash the strawberries which, along with delicious Canadian-made ice cream was served up to over 5,000 hungry visitors over the course of the festival.

While the LaSalle Strawberry Festival is a town-sponsored and run event, the most popular tent where the strawberries were being dished up was manned by the Life After Fifty Club out of Windsor.

“It’s exposure for us. We have a lot of people coming in. Life After Fifty is selling crafts that they made and the proceeds go back to our centre,” explained marketing

director Lora Kane.

As volunteers from that group were busy cutting up and serving the festival staple, there were lots going on throughout the amusement park area as well as the vendor market which, according to Bisson, featured nearly 50 very unique vendors.

“We have a lot of the same old good stuff. New this year is Crusher BMX, they do a lot of great tricks,” said Bisson.

A fireworks display on Friday night, the well-attended and popular parade Saturday morning and a Taylor Swift tribute concert on Saturday night were all part of this year’s festival.

Continued on Page 9

SPECIAL TO THE RTT Volunteers with the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society have crafted “ghost figures” that will be part of the July 20-21 Art Crawl.

Serving up the strawberries and ice cream were (from left) Alexis Hogan, Brooklyn Sternbauer, and Tammy Park.

North Star prom

One of the popular rides was the Avalanche.

Lily Mulder, Arta Giles, Rhys Sharman

Kyle Jones & Emily Beauregard

taking photos in King’s Navy Yard Park.

Gathering at the Gordon House

Carter Maynard, Keira Jurilj, Audrey Buxbaum, Andrew Kettnen

Group shot down by the Detroit River

Carter Perron, Hayden Mailloux, Madelyn Goodyear, Adrian DiGiovanni

Numerous couples pose for picture in the park (left).

Jazmyn Gullick & Rex Bullard

Daniel Morujo & Madison Drouillard

Michael Meloche & Madison Trealout

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Private gardens featured on Garden Tour

Continued from Page 1

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to fireworks.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, you may have to shuffle your schedule a bit this week to accommodate some interesting ideas that you have come up with on the fly. It’s a good thing you’re adaptable.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, think about where you want to go in the upcoming weeks, because you have some pretty influential supporters who can help propel you in that very direction.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, you may be involved in a few different projects right now, but often you start things and do not finish them, which can be frustrating to others. Do not take on any additional tasks.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

You have some high hopes regarding something that has been taking up your time for quite a while, Cancer. Although you’re getting good feedback, don’t count your chickens just yet.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, if you haven’t been doing so already, it is important to set aside some savings so that you’ll have a safety net in the future. It’s essential that you are not just living for today.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, get together with your significant other or another partner and figure out how to divide the workload that has been bogging you down. It’s alright to admit that you need help.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, if you think about it, you have been procrastinating a bit more than usual. It might be because your tasks are not interesting you much. That could mean finding new hobbies.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, get essential tasks out of the way early this week, because it’s likely you will not be enthusiastic about mundane jobs later on. Save plenty of time for fun and entertaining.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Emotions are roiling right now, Sagittarius. Perhaps it is not the best time to reach out to an estranged friend or family member. Instead, wait things out a little longer.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

It is time to disconnect from all of the gadgets and feeds that are constantly drawing your attention, Capricorn. Enjoy a technological detox and reconnect with friends.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you are a major force to reckon with when you pair your creative visions with solid, grounded plans. Things will start falling into place soon enough.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

This week you get a free pass to put yourself first and foremost for a change, Pisces. Go to the head of the line, because it’s all about you for the next few days.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JUNE 9 - Johnny Depp, Actor (61)

JUNE 10 - Bill Burr, Comedian (56)

JUNE 11 - Peter Dinklage, Actor (55)

JUNE 12 Dave Franco, Actor (39)

JUNE 13 - Ashley & Mary-Kate Olsen (38)

JUNE 14 - Donald Trump, Politician (78)

JUNE 15 - Ice Cube, Rapper (55)

AFMHS vice president Andrea Dyrkacz said artists were invited by the gallery to create artwork that was plant and flower based to tie into the exhibit. Work has been judged, with the exception of one award, and all awards will be presented at the closing exhibit June 23. The exhibit ties in with the Garden Tour.

“We’re asking anyone taking a look at the art to vote for the people’s choice award,” said Dyrkacz, who was stationed at the Gibson Gallery. “It’s been a really nice collaboration.”

People from as far as Wallaceburg and all around Windsor-Essex County attended the tour, with Dyrkacz estimating Saturday afternoon that 30 per cent of the people coming were from outside of the Amherstburg area.

“They were kind of blown away by the artwork,” she said. “People were happy with the gardens they saw. How can you be unhappy with gardens?”

The partnership with the town was to tie into Open Air Weekends. Leo Sylvestre, the “Butterfly Guy,” was on hand as was Jack’s Organics giving away free tomato plans.

The AFMHS held its first-ever raffle as part of the Garden Tour, Emery added.

WECSSAA volleyball all-stars

Wildcats win SWOSSAA, eliminated in OFSAA regionals

Most of Villanova’s baseball team eligible to return next season

By Ron Giofu

The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats boys baseball team season is over but it is being branded a success.

The Wildcats did not advance to this week’s OFSAA tournament in London as they were eliminated last week in the OFSAA Regionals that were played in Windsor-Essex County.

With the Wildcats entering the OFSAAA Regional tournament as the number two seed, Villanova went 2-2 to close out their season.

After losing to Mitchell in their first game of the tournament, they knocked off Bradford and Notre Dame. They went up against top seeded St. Martin and fell short.

Games were played last Tuesday and Wednesday in Woodslee, Tecumseh and at Mic Mac Park in Windsor.

“It definitely wasn’t a lack of effort,” said Villanova head coach Wes Langlois. “The guys competed hard but it wasn’t their cleanest baseball. To move on, you have to play clean baseball. Unfortunately, we just fell short.”

Despite the loss, the coaches are already optimistic for next season.

“Even though the OFSAA Regional didn’t work out, I’m very excited for next year and so are the coaches and players.”

Langlois said the Wildcats were a young team this season and “maybe lacked a bit of experience in this style of tournament.” He believed it was a great learning experience for the team as 16 of 20 players are eligible to return next season.

“I think it’s great for the players and the coaches to play in a tournament like that,” he said. “It should pay dividends next year.”

Helping Special Olympians

Villanova went undefeated in WECSSAA and captured a third straight championship, with Langlois adding he believes it is a tough league to come out of.

The WECSSAA championship put them in the SWOSSAA title game against St. Patrick’s in Sarnia, with Villanova erupting late in the game and winning that title by a final score of 17-4.

“It was actually a close game for a few innings,” said Langlois. “Then we had a big inning. Our bats came alive.”

It was “a tremendous season” for the Villanova baseball season, Langlois added, noting that 11 seniors graduated off of the 2023 team. He said only one starter from last year’s team suited up on this year’s OFSAA Regional squad.

Langlois said the coaches were happy to see this year’s team reload and still earn a WECSSAA championship.

“We ended up getting it done,” he said. “I think it was a great season.”

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Community Calendar

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 12

ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB MEETING; Meeting starts at 7 p.m., Julie Hall to be guest speaker. Julie is an exceedingly proficient horticulturalist and artist. She will be doing a nature trivia night. Get in teams or play solo! Designed for nature lovers from any level of expertise. Club meets every second Wednesday of the month, except for November, at Ojibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchett Road, Windsor. All are welcome, free to public.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14

FISH FRY; Held at Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., to benefit the Park House Museum. Runs 4:30-6:30 p.m. Fish and chicken options, eat-in or take-out.

FRIDAY, JUNE 14-SUNDAY, JUNE 16

PARKING FOR RIBFEST; Parking available at the Christ Church parking lot, 317 Ramsay St., on Friday, Saturday and Sunday during Ribfest for a monetary goodwill offering. Ribfest runs 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m.7 p.m. Sunday.

SATURDAY, JUNE 15

SONGFEST #2; Held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 11 Con 3 N. (corner of 3rd & Alma from 2-4 p.m. If you love to sing, we will be singing favorite hymns & gospel songs very informally with coffee and tea and light refreshments. Come for the singing and fellowship. Help us “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” For more info, call Joan at 519-991-6111. See you there!

SUNDAY, JUNE 16

EGG TO BUTTERFLY; Seminar presented by Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society and LaSalle Horticultural Society. Runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Amherstburg Community Services, 320 Richmond St. $20 registration fee, $15 for horticultural society members. Includes three speakers, full Capri pasta lunch, refreshments, snacks, desserts, door prizes, silent auction. For details, e-mail horticulturalsociety@mdirect. net.

SATURDAY, JUNE 22 & SUNDAY, JUNE 23

FILL THE BUS FOOD DRIVE; For the third year in a row, Switzer Carty Transportation has generously agreed to donate the buses for the Food Drive which will take place at three grocery stores in Amherstburg from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Non-perishable food donations that are collected will be given to Be The Light Outreach Ministry, ACS (Amherstburg Community Services), and Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission to help those in need in Amherstburg and Windsor.

Volunteers needed both days (collecting food donations at the buses), and also Monday, June 24 (at Encounter Church on Alma to help sort donations). Great way for high school students to earn their volunteer hours! If interested in volunteering, or if you have any questions, please send an e-mail to be.the.light.outreach.ministry@gmail.com or send a text to 519-996-7744.

ONGOING

“BOATS IN THE BURG”; Marsh Historical Collection hosting “Boats in the Burg: A River Town History” event. Exhibit open now at 80 Richmond St. and runs through July 12. Marsh Historical Collection is open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free, donations are appreciated.

STROLL & ROLL WALKING GROUP; Interested in meeting new people? Moving more? Weekly walking group to meet rain or shine. Free for everyone in the community, open to all abilities. Runs Tuesdays in Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg from 10-11 a.m., May 7-June 25. In Harrow Thursdays from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Harrow Health Centre (1480 Erie St. S.) from May 9-June 27. Inclement weather alternatives are Libro Centre in Amherstburg and community room in clinic in Harrow. For info, call Amherstburg Family Health Team at 519-736-7770 ext. 235 or Harrow 519-738-2000 ext. 522.

MISSION GOLF TOURNAMENT SEEKING SPONSORS; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission golf tournament is June 29 at Coachwood Golf and Country Club. Hole sponsors still being sought. Interested businesses/individuals can call Laura at 519-982-2684.

HOUSE GOLF TOURNAMENT NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; The House Youth Centre hosting 22nd annual Community Cup golf tournament July 13 at Sutton Creek Golf Course in McGregor. Volunteer orientation is July 9. For more information, call 519736-6811 or visit https://linktr.ee/thehouseyouthcentre.

AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall on Pickering across from Walmart.

MIRACLE LEAGUE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; The Miracle League of Amherstburg’s spring season underway. Volunteers are still needed. People can help out at one game or multiple games (up to four) every Saturday through June 15, weather permitting. Great for students needing volunteer hours or adults looking for ways to give back. For info or to sign up, visit www.amherstburgmiracle.com.

YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Resident looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society. Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett) at 519-995-4057 for pick up.

ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail. com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle residents. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $7.50 per meal. Call 519-7365471 for details.

GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offering social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong and bridge and doing line dancing. Club also crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three special luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www. goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.

ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS;

The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors are welcome. We are on Facebook!

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation). Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30-6:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome.

FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come

Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come meet others in the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.

MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www. aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood. com.

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club.” Donors help fund general operations fund of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help!

Public asked to “be a detective” if there is a suspicious phone call or e-mail

Continued from Page 7

Scams where people claiming to be in positions of authority, such as CRA, Visa, Microsoft or credit card companies, and then asking for payment in gift cards or iTunes cards were advised against. Dupuis said scammers will often use pressure tactics and tell potential victims not to contact anyone about the transaction, but simply to get gift cards and read out the codes on them to the caller.

“You will never be contacted by banks, government agencies or reputable companies looking for gift cards,” said Dupuis. “Any time someone asks you to

keep things a secret, that’s a red flag. It’s a scam.” Identity fraud was covered with people encouraged to contact authorities should they lose their wallets. Even if they regain them, Dupuis said people could have still taken photos of their personal information such as drivers’ licenses and social insurance numbers. Fraud artists will also “dumpster dive” to try and retrieve a person’s credit card or another type of personal information, with people encouraged to shred such information.

Part of Dupuis’ presentation was also about “sextortion,” with Dupuis stating that entails people being

drawn into relationships where they are eventually convinced to send nude photos of themselves as part of what they think is an actual relationship. The photos are then used against the person and people are then blackmailed into sending money.

“Don’t engage with someone you don’t know,” said Dupuis. “They don’t care about you. They just want your money.”

Dupuis said companies like Equifax or TransUnion can often verify if a person has fallen victim to a fraud.

“Don’t give your money away,” he added. “Be a detective and ask lots of questions.”

CLASSIFIEDS

APARTMENTS

FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA

VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise. Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.

HELP WANTED CLOTHES IRONING HELP NEEDED; Gentleman

Seeks occasional clothes ironing in my home in Amherstburg. References please. 519-713-9439

FOR SALE RIDER ELECTRIC SCOOTER FOR SALE; Bought brand new for $3000, Selling for $2000. 226-759-5720

FOR SALE

PRESSURE WASHER

3.75 hp, hardly used $150. Couch & loveseat black and taupe strips, like new $750. 4-piece queen quilt set, brand new, champaign colour $100. Black tv stand $75. Call 519-736-2742

“ARE YOU SAVED?”

That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110

YARD SALE

JUNE 14, 15 & 16. Tools, household items, model railroad items. 109 victory St., Lasalle. 8AM -2PM

RENOVATIONS

& REPAIRS

WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation and construction experience, I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly, and with pride. Locally owned & operated. www.renovisions.ca Steve 519-300-0961

LANDSCAPING

"Preferred Landscaping" Locally owned company offering lawn care services. Weekly, monthly, or one time cutting, trimming, and yard clean up. Please call Larry for a free quote. 519984-7412.

WANTED TO BUY

GOLD + Silver ALL COINS- Buying 57 years

Experience- Sat June `15 Colchester Market 195 Bagot St Colchester 9am3pmAsk for Dan JonesCash Paid for ALL Gold + Silver **OLD COINS; Canada, USA, World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 57 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Always Paying More than Expensive Colored Brochures delivered in your mail”House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519818-1805

PEST CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL

CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHARON LUCY WILSON

All persons having claims against Sharon Lucy Wilson, late of Amherstburg, in the County of Essex, Retired, who died on or about the 1st day of September, 2023 are notified to send to the undersigned on or before the 28th day of June, 2024 full particulars of their claims. After that date, the Executor will distribute the assets of the said deceased, having regard only to claims of which they shall then have notice.

DATED at Leamington, Ontario this 29th day of May, 2024.

RICCI, ENNS, ROLLIER & SETTERINGTON LLP Barristers, etc.

60 Talbot Street West Leamington, Ontario

N8H 1M4

Solicitors for the Estate Trustee

Obituaries

Rocheleau, Ruth Ann nee Renaud

Passed away peacefully June 6, 2024, with her family by her side at the age of 92. Daughter of the late Victor and late Gladys (nee Sutts) Renaud. Reunited with her beloved husband Hector (2008) of over 50 years.

Mother of five; Chris (Doris), Mike (Donna), Pat (Bert), Mary (Kim) and Richard (Sue). Cherished Mimi of 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Ruth retired from Seagram’s after many years of dedicated service. She was a lifetime member of Legion Branch 157. She loved to travel and enjoyed playing cards as well as doing crafts of all kinds. She was a loyal fan of Elvis Presley.

A special thank you to her friends at Shevchenko Apartments. Visitation will be held at James H. Sutton Funeral Home (401 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg 519-736-2134) Monday June 10, 2024 from 6-9pm. A Legion Service will be held at 7pm. Visitation will continue at the funeral home Tuesday June 11, 2024 from 10:30am until the time of Funeral Service at 11:30am. Interment to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.

If you so desire, memorial donations may be made to Erie Shores Hospice or a charity of your choice. Share a memory or sign the Book of Condolence at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca

Barbara Miller

2016

Yes, sadly we miss her, and try not to grieve;

A little while longer we too must leave, To meet her on that beautiful shore

Where partings unknown And life is evermore.

Love

Hank, Linda and Family

County of Essex to conduct traffic study along County Road 20

By Ron Giofu

The County of Essex will be conducting a traffic study on County Road 20 (Front Road North) between Texas Road and County Road 3 (Malden Road).

“At the April 22, 2024 meeting of Amherstburg town council direction was given to Mayor (Michael) Prue and Deputy Mayor (Chris) Gibb to request the County of Essex conduct a traffic study for Essex County Road 20 from Texas Road to Essex County Road 3,” county council’s agenda read last Wednesday night. “This notice of motion is to request Essex County Council direct staff to conduct a traffic study which will investigate the effectiveness of speed reductions and other traffic calming measures to ensure that both vehicular and pedestrian traffic on this section of County Road 20 is being managed as safely and efficiently as possible.

The recommendation before county council last Wednesday night, which was adopted, stated that “Essex County Council direct staff to conduct a traffic study which will investigate the effectiveness of speed reductions and other traffic calming measures to ensure that both vehicular and pedestrian traffic on County Road 20 from Texas Road to Essex County Road 3 is being managed as safely and efficiently as possible.”

Gibb noted the issue came up at the April 22 and May 27 town council meetings.

“Amherstburg town council cited the growth in the region driving higher traffic volumes,” said Gibb. “The densification along this roadway is increased and it has a lot of private driveways along the highway.”

Speed is also a “common complaint among the residents,” the deputy mayor stated. Gibb added there is no street lighting along Front Road North along the northern stretch of the area near River Canard. The lack of street lighting “may or may not lead to dangerous traffic conditions.”

“Amherstburg town council is asking for a traffic

study to see if there is a way to improve this county road,” said Gibb.

Prue agreed with Gibb, adding that Amherstburg is not necessarily looking for a speed reduction “although that may be one of the options.” Prue said they listened to concerns raised by LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche about her belief traffic lights are needed along Front Road in her municipality, and that a lot of traffic is coming out of Amherstburg.

Prue said a lot of people from such areas as the Kingsbridge subdivision head out onto the highway and head to LaSalle and/or Windsor.

“We just think it behooves us to ask the county and county staff to look at this county road to see if we can make it safer,” said Prue.

While the issue was originally raised at town council April 22 and passed unanimously, Gibb asked for a reconsideration and wanted a report from town administration May 27. He was concerned over ceding control to the county and said if a higher level of government passed a speed reduction, it could lead to traffic going over to concession roads and impact businesses who depend on just-in-time delivery.

Gibb’s request for a report was ultimatley defeated. Town CAO Valerie Critchley said it was important for the town to be consulted in the process, noting potential impacts to other town roads and businesses who use County Road 20.

“As long as the consultation piece is there, that’s the most important thing,” she said.

Councillor Diane Pouget, who questioned the consideration request and the timing thereof, said there have been several accidents along that area. She noted speed concern and the proximity to houses. Prue said he agreed and also noted the accidents, stating at the May 27 town council meeting “it’s a very dangerous section of road.” Councillor Peter Courtney was another town council member pointing out the volume of homes, the fact they back out onto the highway and the “angulation” of the road.

Councillor Don McArthur said the county knows it is a commercial route as well as a residential route and was confident they will take everything into consideration. McArthur said no specific requests were being made for County Road 20 other than “look at the road and tell us what you think.”