Provincial police have arrested a Leamington man who allegedly attacked a student and stole his cellphone.
Essex County OPP said the victim was walking home from school Feb. 17 when the robber assaulted him and took his phone. The victim was treated at hospital for minor injuries.
Dustin Vance, 18, is charged with robbery.
Find Windsor Star on FacebookThe Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county yesterday. Check out the gallery.
An investigator with the Ontario Provincial Police probes the scene of a fatal crash on Arner Townline in Kingsville Feb. 19, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Ontario Provincial Police investigate a fatal head-on crash on the Arner Townline in Kingsville, ON. on Thursday, Feb 19, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Ontario Provincial Police investigate a fatal head-on crash on the Arner Townline in Kingsville, ON. on Thursday, Feb 19, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Ontario Provincial Police investigate a fatal head-on crash on the Arner Townline in Kingsville, ON. on Thursday, Feb 19, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
The Special Olympics Ontario organization held a bocce tournament on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at the University of Windsor St. Denis Centre. The regional competition is a qualifier for the provincial championship. Iesha Ellwood of Walkerville Collegiate reacts to a shot during the competition. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
The Special Olympics Ontario organization held a bocce tournament on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at the University of Windsor St. Denis Centre. The regional competition is a qualifier for the provincial championship. Iesha Ellwood of Walkerville Collegiate rolls a ball during the competition. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
The Special Olympics Ontario organization held a bocce tournament on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at the University of Windsor St. Denis Centre. The regional competition is a qualifier for the provincial championship. Jazmin Gary of Walkerville Collegiate throws a ball during the competition. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
The Special Olympics Ontario organization held a bocce tournament on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at the University of Windsor St. Denis Centre. The regional competition is a qualifier for the provincial championship. Florence Guo of Walkerville Collegiate reacts after throwing a ball during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
The Special Olympics Ontario organization held a bocce tournament on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at the University of Windsor St. Denis Centre. The regional competition is a qualifier for the provincial championship. Florence Guo of Walkerville Collegiate reacts after throwing a ball during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
The Special Olympics Ontario organization held a bocce tournament on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2015, at the University of Windsor St. Denis Centre. The regional competition is a qualifier for the provincial championship. Gabriel D’Annunzio of Walkerville Collegiate gets some pointers from STEPS teacher Jamie Benn during the competition. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Everest College students in Windsor gather for an information meeting on the Ouellette Avenue campus on Feb. 19, 2015. (Jason Kryk / The Windsor Star)
Everest College student Amanda Hunter (left) is comforted by fellow student Bobby Knight on Feb. 19, 2015. (Jason Kryk / The Windsor Star)
Bobby Knight, 25, an Everest College student, on Feb. 19, 2015. (Jason Kryk / The Windsor Star)
Lukmon Ashimolowo, 33, speaks to media after learning Everest College has suspended operations across Ontario, Feb. 19, 2015. (Jason Kryk / The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A frozen Lake Erie is seen from the shore of Kingsville on Thursday, February 19, 2015. The lake is 98 percent frozen across. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Don Alp sketches in the cold at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Elizabeth MacDonald and Don Alp brave the cold as they create at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Wendy Matassa braves the cold as she paints at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Wendy Matassa braves the cold as she paints at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Elizabeth MacDonald braves the cold as she paints at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Don Alp sketches in the cold at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Painter Elizabeth MacDonald braves the cold as she paints at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Don Alp sketches in the cold at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village near Essex on Thursday, February 19, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Angela Fitzpatrick is seen next to the sidewalk in front of her home on Church Street in Windsor on Thursday, February 19, 2015. Fitzpatrick is upset the city pushed the snow from the street back on to her sidewalk and she doesn’t want to clear it. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
It was a packed house for a panel discussion on youth employment at The Windsor Star News Cafe on Feb. 19, 2015. (Jason Kryk/The Windsor Star)
It was a packed house for a panel discussion on youth employment at The Windsor Star News Cafe on Feb. 19, 2015. (Jason Kryk/The Windsor Star)
AlphaKOR Group president Frank Abbruzzese at a Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
(L to R) Danielle Micallef, Nour Hachem, Jonathon Azzopardi, Yvonne Pilon and Carolyn Thompson at a Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Nour Hachem and Jonathon Azzopardi Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Dan Brown of YKNOT Windsor Essex at a Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Alex Denonville at a Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Danielle Micallef at a Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
WINDSOR, ONTARIO – FEBRUARY 19, 2015 – Dan Brown of YKNOT Windsor Essex following a Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Yvonne Pilon of WEtech Alliance works the social media desk at The Windsor Star News Cafe discussion on youth employment (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Palazzolo family members prepare for weekend concert. Standing are: Nino Palazzolo Jr, left, Nino Palazzolo Sr., Peter Palazzolo, Bryan Connel, Maria Connel, Christina Stein, Christine Palazzolo, right. On keyboard are: RoseAnne Palazzolo-Barrette, Chase Fabischek, Jeff Fabischek and Tina Fabischek, right. The Palozzolo family are holding a concert this weekend at Giovanni Caboto Club of Windsor. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Krystin Lawrence of the Windsor Lancers battles for a loose puck against Toronto’s Stacey Oue, behind, in first period of their OUA playoff quarterfinal at South Windsor Arena, Thursday February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
U of Windsor Lancers Kayla Dodson controls the play against University of Toronto Blues in first period of OUA playoff quarterfinals hockey action from South Windsor Arena, Thursday February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
U of Windsor Lancers Jillian Rops tangles with University of Toronto Blues Julia Szulewska in first period of OUA playoff quarterfinals hockey action from South Windsor Arena, Thursday February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
U of Windsor Lancers Jillian Rops, left, Adelena Tridico and Krystin Lawrence celebtate Lancers second goal with teammates against University of Toronto Blues in OUA playoff quarterfinals hockey action from South Windsor Arena, Thursday February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
U of Windsor Lancers celebrate their second goal against University of Toronto Blues in first period of OUA playoff quarterfinals hockey action from South Windsor Arena, Thursday February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
U of Windsor Lancers Taylor Shepherd, right, and University of Toronto Blues Meagan O’Brien in first period of OUA playoff quarterfinals hockey action from South Windsor Arena, Thursday February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Amherstburg residents can expect to see a very different document when they get their first glimpse Thursday at the proposed 2015 town budget.
Mayor Aldo DiCarlo said not only the document has been streamlined, the entire process has been revamped to make it easier to understand and to allow for more public input.
“The budget will be structured very differently than what the residents are used to seeing,” DiCarlo said. “It will be structured in such a way (that) all the different increases will be separated.”
DiCarlo said treasurer Justin Rousseau has been working to segregate what items would costs and what percentage tax increase would be needed to cover the work.
“So we’re going to try to develop it (that way),” DiCarlo said. “Obviously we can’t do everything … but at least in bigger portions you’ll be able to see what your taxes pay for.”
As for whether the long-awaited, multi-million dollar Texas Road project will be started this year, DiCarlo refused to say, adding, “All I can say at this point is it remains a priority and stay tuned.”
Five budget scenarios are being prepared that will outline a zero per cent cut in town hall expenses through a two per cent, four per cent, five per cent and 10 per cent reduction, as requested by council.
“There’s not going to be any way around (a tax increase),” he said. “However if we can find reductions in day to day business, that’s all that much more we can put in reserves or not increase taxes.”
“I should caution, and I believe the CAO (John Miceli) did as well, you hit 10 per cent reductions you’re going to look at a reduction in services and I don’t know how receptive the public will be to that but again they will have an opportunity to give us that feedback.”
Once the preliminary budget is released, “we’re actually going to go out to the public with the town hall meetings and solicit some feedback.”
Three public meetings will follow, fitting in nicely according to DiCarlo with his “100-day plan” that included holding public meetings.
“Obviously now is the time to do it,” he said. “We’ve got major issues out there like the policing, the budget …. everything and anything that’s been an issue for us will now be open for discussion.”
Once the public has a chance to comment, councillors will have a few weeks to consider the options before beginning budget deliberations on April 2.
As for what the budget may include, DiCarlo said he didn’t believe it was a secret that a tax increase would be necessary.
“We’ve got serious financial troubles at this point,” he said. “I would say more so in the reserve area because we are locked in on our deficits and payment terms so there’s not so much we can do with that anyway.
“But we have to build our reserves back to a point where we don’t get into this position again – structured more like the county is, where you pay as you go, all with zero debt.”
Find Windsor Star on FacebookThe Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county on Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. Check out the photos.
Essex District High School’s Nik Veiali (left) knocks the ball loose from F.J. Brennan Catholic High School’s Landon Porter at Essex District High School on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Essex District High School’s Jeremy Ortan (left) drives around F.J. Brennan Catholic High School’s Pren Duhanet at Essex District High School on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Essex District High School’s Nik Veiali (left) and F.J. Brennan Catholic High School’s Pren Duhanet collide while reaching for a loose ball at Essex District High School on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Essex District High School’s Nik Veiali (left) and F.J. Brennan Catholic High School’s Pren Duhanet collide while reaching for a loose ball at Essex District High School on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Rachel Klein checks Marg Van Patter’s blood pressure during a Heart Month awareness event put on by the Heart and Stroke Foundation at Caesars Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. Free blood pressure checks, CPR lessons and information were provided during the event. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Stephanie Schiller (left) and Rachel Klein check blood pressure during a Heart Month awareness event put on by the Heart and Stroke Foundation at Caesars Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. Free blood pressure checks, CPR lessons and information were provided during the event. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Stephanie Schiller (left) and Rachel Klein check blood pressure during a Heart Month awareness event put on by the Heart and Stroke Foundation at Caesars Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. Free blood pressure checks, CPR lessons and information were provided during the event. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Carmel O’Quinn holds a studio photograph of her daughter Kayla Vaillancourt and grandchildren Miah, 3, and Ethan 2, who were injured in a fire last weekend. Kayla Vaillancourt is still in hospital, but would like to reach out to Windsor firefighters who save her life. O’Quinn had a chance to speak with Vaillancourt today, February 19, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Kayla Vaillancourt with her children, Miah, 3, and Ethan, 2. Friday February 19, 2015. Vaillancourt and children were rescued from their burning home by Windsor firefighters. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters use a net to try to capture a swan after it was freed from the ice at Lakeview Park Marina, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
A swan flies past Peche Island in front of Lakeview Park Marina where Windsor firefighters freed a swan from the ice, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters use a net while using an aerial ladder in an attempt to free a swan from the ice at Lakeview Park Marina, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters shoot water at a swan in an attempt to free it from the ice at Lakeview Park Marina, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
A swan was stuck in the ice at Lakeview Park Marina, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters use a net while using an aerial ladder in an attempt to free a swan from the ice at Lakeview Park Marina, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters shoot water at a swan in an attempt to free it from the ice at Lakeview Park Marina, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Christine Wilson-Furlonger, administrator at the Street Help Homeless Centre where she is pictured, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. Wilson-Furlonger says due to the extreme cold, the centre is asking for large coats and winter boots. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Doug Hays, 58, who was recently homeless, is pictured at the Street Help Homeless Centre where he stays and works, Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Thom Rolfe, executive director of the Hiatus House, is pictured Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Maureen Cobb talks on her phone outside of her apartment after the heat went out recently in Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Maureen Cobb is using her oven to warm her apartment after the heat went out recently in Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Maureen Cobb is using her oven to warm her apartment after the heat went out recently in Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Maureen Cobb is using her oven to warm her apartment after the heat went out recently in Windsor on Friday, February 20, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
The Chinese Association of Greater Windsor hosted the Chinese New Year gala on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts.
Members of Southwood Church from left to right, Daniel Xie, Susie Rock, Aaron Rock and Anthony Albano attend the Chinese New Year gala held at St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Chinese Association of Greater Windsor, the event rang in the year of the ram. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Members of the executive committee from left to right, Ping Lin, Zhenzhong Ma, Haichao Zhan and Dingjie Lin attend the Chinese New Year gala held at St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Chinese Association of Greater Windsor, the event rang in the year of the ram. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Members of CIBC Bank from left to right, Tom Fazekas, Natasha Kovacs, Debra Landry and Dingjie Lin attend the Chinese New Year gala held at St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Chinese Association of Greater Windsor, the event rang in the year of the ram. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Members of TD Bank Group from left to right, Giovanni Chimienti, Maria Caschera, Eric Griggs and Bill Marangelli attend the Chinese New Year gala held at St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Chinese Association of Greater Windsor, the event rang in the year of the ram. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
From left to right, Sarah Watson, Jeff Watson, Allan Conway and Zhenzhong Ma attend the Chinese New Year gala held at St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Chinese Association of Greater Windsor, the event rang in the year of the ram. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Zhenzhong Ma, left, and Ping Lin welcome a packed theatre to a Chinese New Year performance at St. Clair Centre for the Arts, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Chinese Association of Greater Windsor, the event rang in the year of the ram. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
The African Community Organization of Windsor celebrated its 3rd annual Black History month event at Club Alouette on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015.
From left to right, Scholastica Lyanga, Veronica Dielle Nkoke, Pierre Oleko, Harold Greene and Dorine Tchecemeleu attend a Black History Month celebration at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the African Community Organization of Windsor, this year marks the groups 3rd annual Black History celebration. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
From left to right, Kenny Gbadebo, Isaac Kadende, Nunush Wolde, Lydia Habteab (lower) and G. Rogers attend a Black History Month celebration at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the African Community Organization of Windsor, this year marks the groups 3rd annual Black History celebration. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Joshepine Sawyer, right, makes her way through the dinner line at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The African Community Organization of Windsor celebrated its 3rd annual Black History event. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Nunush Wolde, left, and Danait Asgedom model traditional ethiopian clothing at a Black History Month celebration at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Organization of the African Community of Windsor, this year marks the groups 3rd annual Black History celebration. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Models take the stage wearing traditional African clothing at a Black History Month celebration at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the Organization of the African Community of Windsor, this year marks the groups 3rd annual Black History celebration. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
President of ACOW Kenny Gbadebo and media relations Isaac Kadende display this year’s Black History Month celebration theme – unity in diversity – at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the African Community Organization of Windsor, this year marks the groups 3rd annual Black History celebration. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Rufus Abidakun, centre, hands out ACOW recognition awards to Vincent Nwaesei, left, Justina Nwaesei, Fatmata “Mama Dee” Rogers and Kenny Gbadebo at Club Alouette, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The African Community Organization of Windsor celebrated its 3rd annual Black History month event. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
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The Star’s photographers covered the city and county on Saturday Feb. 21 and Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. Check out the photos.
Dancers perform a Chinese New Year celebration at Devonshire Mall, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. The celebration was organized by the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Dancers perform a Chinese New Year celebration at Devonshire Mall, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. The celebration was organized by the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Dancers perform a Chinese New Year celebration at Devonshire Mall, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. The celebration was organized by the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Dancers perform a Chinese New Year celebration at Devonshire Mall, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. The celebration was organized by the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Young dancers play coconut while waiting to perform at a Chinese New Year celebration at Devonshire Mall, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. The celebration was organized by the Essex County Chinese Canadian Association. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Carson Mergl, 5, watches the model trains go by at the 20th Essex Train Show at Essex Public School, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Dimitry Kupin shows his two-year old son, Maksim Kupin, the model train displays at the 20th Essex Train Show at Essex Public School, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Bradley Marlow, 5, watches the model trains go by with jaw-dropping fascination at the 20th Essex Train Show at Essex Public School, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Anthony Cigan, 8 watches the model trains go by at the 20th Essex Train Show at Essex Public School, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Bradley Marlow, 5, watches the model trains go by with jaw-dropping fascination at the 20th Essex Train Show at Essex Public School, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Model trains are on display at the 20th Essex Train Show at Essex Public School, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Musical entertainer Rick Rock plays for the crowd at Food & Drink On the Rink, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at the WFCU Centre. The two-day event brought together local food, beer, wine and food service experts to demonstrate their specialities. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Director of Goodtimes for Bayside Brewing Co., Colin Chrysler, hands a beer to Tyler Reneau at Food & Drink On the Rink, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at the WFCU Centre. The two-day event brought together local food, beer, wine and food service experts to demonstrate their specialities. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Foodies and drink tasters attend Food & Drink On the Rink, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at the WFCU Centre. The two-day event brought together local food, beer, wine and food service experts to demonstrate their specialities. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Beer and wine enthusiasts from left to right, Tyler Reneau, Adrian Bisson, Kaitlin Oliver, Jeff Bassett and Andrew Aguanno attend Food & Drink On the Rink, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015, at the WFCU Centre. The two-day event brought together local food, beer, wine and food service experts to demonstrate their specialities. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Alumni form left to right, Hassan Adan, Brianna Jentzel, Krystal Banfill and Rob Denunzio attend Teachers for Tanzania at Fogolar Furlan, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The gala was hosted by the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Education and raised money for vulnerable people in Singida, Tanzania. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Committee members from left to right, Jennifer Villella, Natalie Browning-Morgan, Elisa Graceffa and Dr. Andrew Allen attend Teachers for Tanzania at Fogolar Furlan, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The gala was hosted by the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Education and raised money for vulnerable people in Singida, Tanzania. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star
From left to right Abdullahi Abdulle, Sarah Cook, Patricia Thompson, Ronnie Haidar and Philip Budd attend Teachers for Tanzania at Fogolar Furlan, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The gala was hosted by the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Education and raised money for vulnerable people in Singida, Tanzania. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Gala-goers from left to right, Chris Crewe, Denise Crewe, Dale Ducharme and Chantel Ducharme check out auction items at Teachers for Tanzania held at Fogolar Furlan, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. Hosted by the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Education, the gala raised money for vulnerable people in Singida, Tanzania. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Committee members from left to right, Dana Shaban, Faisal Ishak and Kim Cox attend Teachers for Tanzania at Fogolar Furlan, Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015. The gala was hosted by the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Education and raised money for vulnerable people in Singida, Tanzania. (RICK DAWES/The Windsor Star)
Water streams down the wall at the Manchester Pub after water starting streaming out of the adjacent building at 540 Ouellette Ave., Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue work to shut off a significant water leak at 540 Ouellette Ave., Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. Water could be seen streaming out of the lobby onto the street, as well as streaming down the walls of the Manchester Pub next door. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue work to shut off a significant water leak at 540 Ouellette Ave., Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. Water could be seen streaming out of the lobby onto the street, as well as streaming down the walls of the Manchester Pub next door. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue work to shut off a significant water leak at 540 Ouellette Ave., Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. Water could be seen streaming out of the lobby onto the street, as well as streaming down the walls of the Manchester Pub next door. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue work to shut off a significant water leak at 540 Ouellette Ave., Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. Water could be seen streaming out of the lobby onto the street, as well as streaming down the walls of the Manchester Pub next door. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
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The Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county Monday. Check out the gallery.
The Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker Samuel Risley chugs along the Detroit River on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (Dan Janisse/The Windsor Star)
The Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker Samuel Risley chugs along the Detroit River Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Nick Grimmell, front office manager at the Holiday Inn in downtown Windsor, Ont. looks out of the lobby windows on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. A flood Sunday in a nearby condo building knocked out power to the motel. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a fire at the Havana Smoke Shop and Convenience store in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a fire at the Havana Smoke Shop and Convenience store in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a fire at the Havana Smoke Shop and Convenience store in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a fire at the Havana Smoke Shop and Convenience store in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a fire at the Havana Smoke Shop and Convenience store in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a fire at the Havana Smoke Shop and Convenience store in the 500 block of Ouellette. Ave. on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015, in Windsor, Ont.. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Tom Sotiriadas (R), owner of the Manchester Pub in the 500 block of Ouellette Avenue checks out the damage to his bar with an inspector on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. Flooding in a nearby condo building caused significant damage to the business. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a house fire in the 4200 block of Barton Crescent on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a house fire in the 4200 block of Barton Crescent on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor firefighters are shown at the scene of a house fire in the 4200 block of Barton Crescent on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
A bundled up pedestrian walks in downtown Windsor, Ont. on Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. Below seasonal temperatures are expected to stick around for several more days. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue deal with a fire at Havana Smoke and Convenience, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue deal with a fire at Havana Smoke and Convenience, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue deal with a fire at Havana Smoke and Convenience, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Fire and Rescue deal with a fire at Havana Smoke and Convenience, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Jake Mitchell, co-owner of Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, inspects some of the grape vines on his property, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. The recent cold weather has taken a toll on the vines. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Snow covered grape vines are pictured at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. The recent cold weather has taken a toll on the vines. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Jake Mitchell, co-owner of Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, stands amongst the snow covered grape vines Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. The recent cold weather has taken a toll on the vines. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Villanova’s Taylor Conte, right, tries to steal the puck from St. Anne’s Kylene Dupuis at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore Monday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Villanova’s Sara Mayrand, left, and St. Anne’s Jacquie Hutchings battle for a loose puck at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore Monday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Villanova’s Taylor Conte, centre, and Sara Mayrand, right, celebrate a goal in the first period in front of St. Anne’s Amy Maitre and goaltender Vanessa Despenic at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore Monday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Villanova’s Allison Langille, right, tries to steal the puck from St. Anne’s Alexis Lachine at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore Monday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Traffic backs up on Division Rd. west of Woodward Blvd. after a three-car motor vehicle accident closed both east and west bound lanes, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency personnel tend to a three-car motor vehicle accident on Division Rd. west of Woodward Blvd. Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work at the scene of a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work at the scene of a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work to remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work to remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work to remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Katrina Elchami, Chair of Parents’ Council for Public School Board at Roseland Public School Monday Feb. 23, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Essex-Windsor EMS paramedics and Windsor police take a victim to hospital from an apartment building at 475 Bruce Ave. Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. Multiple Windsor Police cruisers are on the scene including Major Crimes Unit. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Essex-Windsor EMS paramedics rushed a victim to hospital from an apartment building at 475 Bruce Ave. Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. Multiple Windsor police cruisers are on the scene including Major Crimes Unit. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Hayes Stoysin of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School smiles after releasing the rock in game against Belle River in high school curling action from Roseland Curling Club Monday. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Emmanuel Yaldo of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School shouts directions to teammates in game against Belle River in high school curling action from Roseland Curling Club Monday. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Drew Denomy of Belle River sweeps for his team in game against St. Joseph’s High School in curling action from Roseland Curling Club Monday February 23, 2015. St. Joseph’s went up early in the game. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Peter Christian of St. Clair College Saints mens volleyball spikes during practice in preparation of big game against Durham next Friday at St. Clair’s SportPlex. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Another frigid winter is the last thing Essex County’s wine industry needs.
The bud-killing January 2014 freeze left most local vineyards without grapes this summer and this winter’s extended cold weather has winemakers here worried again.
“We still had some pretty cold nights in the range of 20 to 22 Celsius below,” Stephen Mitchell, president of the Essex Pelee Island Coast (EPIC) Winegrowers Association, said Monday. “That is a damage zone but it’s not necessarily a full kill zone.”
Mitchell, who is also the president and director of sales and marketing with Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery on County Road 50 in Amherstburg, said it hasn’t been as cold as last year but the bone-chilling weather has stayed cold for longer. He said he’s not sure what that has done to buds and the industry’s rebound season.
By his count there have been nine dangerously cold nights including Monday night when wineries were running wind machines to mix the air and warm up the temperature at the ground. Last year it was too windy to use the machines and save the tiny buds.
Snow covered grape vines are pictured at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. The recent cold weather has taken a toll on the vines. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Mitchell said with pruning, vineyard managers can work around small percentages of bud damage from one or two nights of cold temperatures.
“If it happens six or eight times like it’s happened this year, we don’t know what that means because we haven’t had that happen before.”
Experts from Brock University will look at bud survival next week in Essex County.
Jim Willwerth, a senior scientist with the university’s Cool Climate Oeneology and Viticulture Institute, said Essex County wineries have some factors in their favour despite this year’s cold winter. The temperatures didn’t drop as cold as last year, wineries were able to use their wind machines and the snow on the ground would protect young vines. Because there wasn’t a thaw, vines remain hardy and growers can still get a good crop with some bud damage, he said.
Jake Mitchell, co-owner of Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, inspects some of the grape vines on his property, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. The recent cold weather has taken a toll on the vines. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Willwerth said he expects there will be some damage across Ontario but it’s too early to tell how much. The damage depends on many things including the location, even within a vineyard, and the grape variety. “It’s going to be highly variable.”
Willwerth said Merlot and Sauvignon Blanc are the varieties most at risk.
Debbie Zimmerman, CEO of the Grape Growers of Ontario, said that survey combined with the association’s own research will give growers a better idea of damage by the end of March. “It is a concern but we don’t know yet,” Zimmerman said Monday.
Last year, Ontario’s 17,000 acres of vineyards produced about $80 million worth of grapes.
The vineyards in Essex County were the hardest hit last winter. Mitchell said winemakers suspected a -25 C windy night in early January 2014 killed most of the buds. Many wineries didn’t get a crop and used last year to strengthen the vines. They sold wine from a bountiful 2013 harvest. Mitchell is hoping wineries can bounce back in 2015 and build their brand.
There are 18 wineries in Essex County. There are about 1,500 acres of vineyards in Essex County and Pelee Island which produce $8 million worth of grapes, he said. That would produce about $50 million worth of wine.
Find Windsor Star on FacebookDr. Nick Rathe, alleged to have sent police on a wild-goose chase in 2006 in pursuit of a former lover, is innocent on a charge of public mischief, a court ruled Tuesday.
The Crown failed to make its case, and an OPP investigation of the former Belle River family doctor “fell significantly short of establishing proof beyond a reasonable doubt” that Rathe made up a story about being the victim of a fraud, Superior Court Justice Christopher Bondy said in a written ruling read out in court.
Rathe, who defended himself at trial and who has been convicted of assault in the past and lost his medical licence, wept after the ruling and was hugged in the courtroom by supporters.
Rathe had gone to police and complained a young woman he had hired as an office worker had taken his driver’s licence and used it to have another man impersonate him when she took out a loan on a used Hyundai Tiburon. But the police investigation quickly turned around on the complainant, who was subsequently charged with fraud and public mischief.
The judge, however, had little good to say about the police investigation and the cast of prosecution witnesses brought forward by the Crown. Bondy described the evidence against Rathe as either inconsistent and unreliable, or even contradictory at times.
On the day of the car sale, the woman at the centre of the trial who was buying the car, Michelle Timothy, testified Rathe was with her when the documents were signed. But Rathe offered an alibi — three witnesses who were eating lunch with him somewhere else at the same alleged time.
Verifying that claim “would have been quite simple,” said the judge, but the OPP detective testified he simply didn’t believe Rathe’s alibi, so he didn’t pursue it. “I’m left with reasonable doubt,” said Bondy.
At trial, the car dealership salesman and financial manager both testified they were certain the man with Timothy that day on Jan. 12, 2006, was Rathe, whom they identified from a photo lineup. But Bondy said photo lineups with non-expert witnesses can be “notoriously unreliable,” and the judge cited concerns with the way this one was handled.
The judge also said the investigating officers should have handled the information they were getting from Timothy “with a greater deal of caution.” The woman agreed at trial that she had been threatening to tell Rathe’s wife about their affair and that she was angry with the doctor after he cut off her supply of OxyContin, which Rathe alleged the strip club worker had been selling on the side.
Asked for his reaction to the judgment, Rathe told a reporter: “No comment.” Neither assistant Crown attorney Craig Houle, who was in court for the judgment, or Crown Attorney Nat Bernardon, were available for comment.
Rathe was convicted of assault in 2007 in relation to a road rage incident involving a woman. He was stripped of his medical licence in 2012 by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario after several former patients filed complaints against him.
Rathe gave an opening statement at his trial, but he did not testify in his own defence.
Find Windsor Star on FacebookLeamington’s Annual Job Day is Thursday.
The job and career fair will be held at the Leamington Kinsmen Recreation Complex on Sherk Street from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants are invited to come with resumes and dress for success.
More information is available at jobday.ca.
Find Windsor Star on FacebookHoly Names Megan Lumley returns the volleyball during action against Villanova on February 24, 2015 (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Farah El-Hajj, a UWSA senator, is on a committee writing a new sexual assault policy and has been an advocate for better support and protections. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Holy Names Megan Lumley dives fthe volleyball during action against Villanova on February 24, 2015 (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Brennan’s Josh Breault, right, makes a save on Belle River’s Jack Leafeve at Lakeshore Arena in Lakeshore Tuesday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Brennan’s Jacob Difazid, right, protects the puck from Belle River’s Bailey Bell at Lakeshore Arena in Lakeshore Tuesday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Diana Khoury, a resident of 475 Bruce Ave., on Feb. 24, 2015. (Dan Janisse / The Windsor Star)
Ali Hakim, the property manager of 475 Bruce Ave., on Feb. 24, 2015. (Dan Janisse / The Windsor Star)
A forensics officer takes a photograph on the balcony of a unit at 475 Bruce Ave. on Feb. 24, 2015. (Dan Janisse / The Windsor Star)
A Windsor police forensics officer prepares to examine the crime scene at 475 Bruce Ave. on Feb. 24, 2015. (Dan Janisse / The Windsor Star)
A Windsor police vehicle outside 475 Bruce Ave. on Feb. 24, 2015. (Dan Janisse / The WIndsor Star)
John Zucchet, Darren Cocchetto and Erin Kelly (left to right) sign a contract during a press conference in which the school board handed over control of Windsor Stadium to the AKO Fratmen organization at Hon. W.C.Kennedy Collegiate Institute in Windsor on Tuesday, February 24, 2015. AKO will run the stadium and is looking to make some major upgrades. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Brennan’s Zack Mayea, left, and Belle River’s Brad Morris battle for a loose puck at Lakeshore Arena in Lakeshore Tuesday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Brennan’s Chase Kavanaugh, left, cuts around Belle River’s Matt Walker at Lakeshore Arena in Lakeshore Tuesday. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Girls Volleyball final – Villanova vs. Holy Names at Villanova on February 24, 2015 (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
John Zucchet, Darren Cocchetto and Alan Halberstadt (left to right) sign a contract during a press conference in which the school board handed over control of Windsor Stadium to the AKO Fratmen organization at Hon. W.C.Kennedy Collegiate Institute in Windsor on Tuesday, February 24, 2015. AKO will run the stadium and is looking to make some major upgrades. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
John Zucchet speaks during a press conference in which the school board handed over control of Windsor Stadium to the AKO Fratmen organization at Hon. W.C.Kennedy Collegiate Institute in Windsor on Tuesday, February 24, 2015. AKO will run the stadium and is looking to make some major upgrades. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
John Zucchet, Darren Cocchetto and Alan Halberstadt (left to right) sign a contract during a press conference in which the school board handed over control of Windsor Stadium to the AKO Fratmen organization at Hon. W.C.Kennedy Collegiate Institute in Windsor on Tuesday, February 24, 2015. AKO will run the stadium and is looking to make some major upgrades. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
John Zucchet speaks during a press conference in which the school board handed over control of Windsor Stadium to the AKO Fratmen organization at Hon. W.C.Kennedy Collegiate Institute in Windsor on Tuesday, February 24, 2015. AKO will run the stadium and is looking to make some major upgrades. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
A 64-year-old truck driver is facing charges following a three-vehicle crash on Manning Road Monday.
Ontario Provincial Police said a van and car were driving northbound on Manning around 5:25 p.m., when the vehicles began to slow down near Baseline Road and were rear-ended by a tractor-trailer.
A 30-year-old Windsor woman, who was driving the middle vehicle, was sent to hospital in serious condition.
She was later reported in fair condition.
The 66-year-old husband and wife from Windsor in the lead vehicle were taken to hospital with minor injuries and were listed in stable condition.
OPP said the tractor-trailer driver was uninjured and is facing a charge of careless driving.
No names were released.
Emergency crews remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work at the scene of a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work at the scene of a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work to remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
Emergency crews work to remove a woman from a car after being involved in a three-car motor vehicle accident involving a car, a transport truck and a minivan on Manning Road north of Baseline Road, Monday, Feb. 23, 2015. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
The Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county Wednesday. Check out the gallery.
Jason Petro, manager of the Cardiac Wellness Program, speaks during a media kick off for the Heart Breaker Challenge and a tour of the new Cardiac Wellness Centre gym which is currently under construction at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Janice Kaffer, president and CEO Hotel-Dieu Grace Heathcare, speaks during a media kick off for the Heart Breaker Challenge and a tour of the new Cardiac Wellness Centre gym which is currently under construction at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Jason Petro, manager of the Cardiac Wellness Program, (not seen) leads a tour during a media kick off for the Heart Breaker Challenge and a tour of the new Cardiac Wellness Centre gym which is currently under construction at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Janice Kaffer, president and CEO Hotel-Dieu Grace Heathcare, speaks during a media kick off for the Heart Breaker Challenge and a tour of the new Cardiac Wellness Centre gym which is currently under construction at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Jason Petro, manager of the Cardiac Wellness Program, (not seen) leads a tour during a media kick off for the Heart Breaker Challenge and a tour of the new Cardiac Wellness Centre gym which is currently under construction at Hotel-Dieu Grace Hospital in Windsor on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. A group of local students make their way up the stairs during the event. (DAN JANISSE/ The Windsor Star)
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. Jordan Easter, 16, (R) of St. Joseph’s High School reacts as an unidentified competitor takes a tumble during a inflatable horse race. (DAN JANISSE/ The Windsor Star)
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. A group of local students make their way up the stairs during the event. (DAN JANISSE/ The Windsor Star)
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. A group of local students pose for a photo during the event. (DAN JANISSE/ The Windsor Star)
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. A group of local students make their way up the stairs during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. A group of local students make their way up the stairs during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
St. Anne’s French Immersion School teacher Derrick Laporte teaches a grade 8 class on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
St. Anne’s French Immersion School student Brooklyn Bechard participates in a lesson on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
St. Anne’s French Immersion School teacher Carole Dray teaches a first grade class on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Black Moss publisher Marty Gervais poses with a poster of three books his company is about to release. (JASON KRYK / The Windsor Star)
Renato Zavaglia at La Contessa can’t wait to fire up his patio pizza oven with some fresh, tasty ideas for his customers now that his oven has been approved by City officials Feb. 25, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
The Villanova Wildcats celebrate their WECSSAA championship after beating Sandwich at the Vollmer Complex. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
University of Windsor Lancers Chad Shepley slips past check by Guelph Gryphons Seth Swenson in first period of OUA playoff hockey at South Windsor Arena Feb. 25, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
University of Windsor Lancers Dylan Seguin carries against Guelph Gryphons Nicholas Trecapelli in OUA playoff hockey at South Windsor Arena Feb. 25, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
OUA referee Scott Brown speaks with Guelph goaltender Andrew D’Agostini after the net came loose several times in game against University of Windsor Lancers in OUA playoff hockey at South Windsor Arena Feb. 25, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
University of Windsor Lancers Brett Babkirk tangles with Guelph Gryphons Jordan Mock in OUA playoff hockey at South Windsor Arena Feb. 25, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
University of Windsor Lancers Eric Noel keeps alert in battle with Guelph Gryphons in OUA playoff hockey at South Windsor Arena Feb. 25, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
In the battle to attract a diminishing number of students, Ontario’s French Catholic school boards have gone on the offensive with an ad campaign that other educators are saying infers its programs are superior to those at French immersion schools.
But Joseph Picard, director of education for the Conseil scolaire catholique Providence in Southwestern Ontario, says the main goal of the ads and information sessions is to hang onto the students it already has as they enter high school.
The board’s Myth or Reality campaign points out that “immersion programs are offered in English-language schools whereas the French-language Catholic school adopts a curriculum offered entirely in French. School activities are conducted in French, whereas in immersion schools the amount of French that is used decreases at various levels of study.”
The complete campaign, which is in its second year, can be viewed online at http://mythorreality.ca/en/.
St. Anne’s French Immersion School student Brooklyn Bechard participates in a lesson on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Picard said his board was losing 45 per cent of its elementary students after Grade 8 graduation.
“That’s the driving force behind this. It’s not a campaign targeting French immersion students,” he said.
The French Catholic board has 6,039 students in its 13 elementary schools and 991 in its two secondary institutions in Windsor and Essex County.
However the ads, which appear on the board’s website, radio, social media and outdoor billboards, have not gone unnoticed at the other local school boards.
There’s a perspective that commenting on another board’s programs is getting into questionable territory.
Windsor-Essex Catholic District Board director of education Paul Picard, brother of Joseph Picard, admits to have been taken aback the first time he saw the ads.
“I’d have more problem with it if it was one local board targeting the others, but this is a provincial campaign they’re caught in,” Paul Picard said.
“I wouldn’t go down that road (with our board). I’m not going to enter into a campaign that could be perceived to question the effectiveness of another board. I’m sure the other local boards feel the same way.”
Clara Howitt, a superintendent of education for the Greater Essex County District School Board who oversees French Immersion, also took the high road.
“I’m not going to get into a situation where I denigrate another board,” Howitt said.
“I believe all schools are good in Ontario. Speaking as a parent, I have two daughters in French immersion. They love it. They love learning about the French culture and their overall learning has been enhanced.”
St. Anne’s French Immersion School teacher Derrick Laporte teaches a grade 8 class on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Joseph Picard said the driving force behind the campaign was to address misinformation such as attending French-language high school would limit post-secondary choices or that there were fewer scholarships available for students.
A secondary goal of the campaign was to raise the board’s profile in the community.
“We needed to get out the message of exactly who we are,” Picard said.
“If that’s been perceived that in some way French immersion is inferior, that’s not been our intention at all. It’s not aimed at recruiting students from other boards.”
Picard added the decision to repeat the campaign came after the board saw an improvement in its retention rate of just over three per cent last year. It’s expected that figure will be even better locally this year.
While area boards have generally attempted to play nice while still scrapping over the diminishing pool of students, there’s no attempt to conceal there’s real competition going on in the education arena.
The growing popularity of French-language education has merely served to open a new front for competition.
“Declining enrolment does that,” Paul Picard said. “Funding comes based on enrolment. It would be disingenuous of anyone to suggest we don’t compete.”
Find Windsor Star on FacebookThere’s a lot of stairs in the WFCU arena bowl, just ask the participants in Wednesday’s United Way iClimb event.
More than 2,100 students climbed 1,000 stairs to raise money for United Way’s programs. Windsor and Essex County secondary and elementary students proudly wore their school colours as they marched around the WFCU bowl. In the morning, 170 employees from different workplaces hiked up and down the stairs.
Liam Giles-Hayes, relationship manager for youth and young adult at United Way, said the event’s 2,270 participants marked an increase from last year’s totals of 1,700 students and 100 local employees.
“I think the word spreads through the community about what a great event this is, not only for students but different workplaces,” he said. “As well as it’s right in line with the curriculum and what students should be learning in regards to mental wellness and how they can be advocates in our community.”
Over 2,000 climbers participated in the 6th annual iClimb for United Way event held at the WFCU Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2015, in Windsor, Ont. Students from local elementary and secondary schools, 20 workplaces and 150 volunteers took part in the event that raises money for mental health programs. A group of local students make their way up the stairs during the event. (DAN JANISSE/The Windsor Star)
Giles-Hayes said the money raised is spent locally to support mental wellness programs.
“We are supporting United Way’s mental health and counselling program, so students are learning about what it’s like to be physically active and how that can improve their mental wellness,” he said. “We’re overjoyed with the support we’ve received from the community. Our goal is $40,000 and I think we’ll get that goal.”
Some schools chose to raise the money individually among students while others took on the fundraising as a team.
“It’s a great way for the students to understand what United Way is all about, even if it’s only a little taste of what we do,” Giles-Hayes said. “We are really proud of what United Way is doing in the community in terms of mental health and counselling program. We were able to work with our partners and decrease that 12 -week wait time which a lot of people in our community were facing who were in crisis.”
As well as stair climbing, students also went to different stations through the day including an obstacle course, yoga, team building, boxing and even pickle ball.
Amherstburg councillors approved up to $12,000 for the services of a local law firm to assist the town in the fight to save its local high school without going through a tender process.
In doing so, councillors ignored the recommendation of CAO John Miceli to simply receive his report on the unsolicited offer from Leardi Law Firm.
Miceli warned council they would need to waive the rules of the procurement policy if they wished to pursue the sole sourcing of this service.
Mayor Aldo DiCarlo was the only council member to vote against accepting the offer.
“It’s obviously a very serious issue for us,” DiCarlo said of the possible closure of General Amherst high school.
Amherstburg’s newly elected mayor Aldo DiCarlo. (DAX MELMER/The Windsor Star)
The Greater Essex County District School Board recently formed a program and accommodation review committee to study the future of Amherst, Kingsville District and Harrow high schools, Western secondary school and Harrow public elementary school.
Cuts in government funding and declining enrolment have put the county schools under the magnifying glass.
“We have an elected trustee,” DiCarlo said. “We have very passionate people in the town who have volunteered their time.
“The town has financial issues and I think it’s an issue that could have been properly addressed by the people elected to deal with it.”
Find Windsor Star on FacebookThe gloves appear to be off again at Amherstburg town council, this time over proposed political salary increases and disputed hiring practices of the old administration.
Councillors deferred dealing with the question of a salary increase for themselves on Monday but directed administration to prepare a report outlining the qualifications of all employees “who were hired or changed status or positions” during restructuring by former CAO Mike Phipps.
They also directed administration to ask for council approval whenever employees attend training courses, conferences or out-of-town meetings.
“I’m a little disappointed that we didn’t deal with the salary issue tonight,” said Mayor Aldo DiCarlo.
The mayor said it’s unfair to ask administrators to find cost savings while considering a pay hike for council members.
Councillors Diane Pouget and Jason Lavigne have said they feel conflicted over having to decide on their own compensation.
“The CAO (John Miceli) is and was prepared to speak to that report,” DiCarlo said. “The committee that came up with that information (recommending no salary increase) included at least one if not more residents … a pretty impartial body there.”
The report, prepared by Nicole Rubli, manager of licensing and enforcement, recommended no salary increase for the 2014-2018 term. The report also recommended that councillors pay for their own expenses when they attend conferences that are outside of those that are approved by council.
The issue will be debated at council’s next meeting in March.
DiCarlo said he is frustrated by the fact that the salary issue has been deferred. He said the previous council voted unanimously to allow the new council to deal with it and two current council members sat on the previous council.
“I’m very frustrated,” he said. “We’re trying to move the town forward and we’ve got a big budget to deal with and budget issues and likely tax increases … so it seems to me the issues that we should be dealing with are being deferred and the issues that there’s nothing we can do about anymore just won’t seem to go away.”
Find Windsor Star on FacebookWho’s up for some laughter, intrigue and a love affair? Look at what’s happening this weekend.
Aiyun Huang: The U of W School of Creative Arts welcomes international performing artist and percussionist Aiyun Huang, Thursday, Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. for a recital in Studio A of Lambton Tower, U of W campus. Huang is chair of the percussion area and director of the McGill Percussion Ensemble at the Schulich School of Music of McGill University. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students with ID. Call 519-253-3000 ext. 4212. Visit uwindsor.ca/music.
Chan Bang Club: Villains Beastro invites you to join in the Scottish live open mic night, Friday, Feb. 27 at 9 p.m. at Villains Beastro, 256 Pelissier St. Then, Saturday, Feb. 28, The Dead Samaritans perform. Call 519-915-5215. Visit villainsbeastro.com.
Doo Wop to Bop: Chrysler Theatre hosts a night of harmony, soul and “bomp a bomp” featuring The Vogues, The Shades of Blue, and The Marcels, Saturday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. at St. Clair College Centre for the Arts, 201 Riverside Dr. W. Tickets are $47.50-$27.50. Call 519-252-6579. Visit chryslertheatre.com.
Great Whisky Debate Fundraiser: You are invited for food, music and spirits, Saturday, Feb. 28 at Venue Music Hall, 255 Ouellette Ave. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Six whiskys, four restaurants and one great cause. Part of the proceeds to benefit the publishing of The Funny Thing About Cancer, by local comedian and author Josh Haddon, who was diagnosed with stage 3 esophageal cancer in 2014. Hear live music from Toronto soul band Matt Morgan and The Mayday. Admission is $35. Tickets are available at Chanoso’s, South Detroit, The Willistead and Snackbar-B-Q. Call 519-252-5991.
Michael Harrison: The Comedy Quarry hosts another comedic evening featuring Michael Harrison, Friday, Feb. 27 at 9 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. at Comedy Quarry, Rockhead Pub, 1444 Ottawa St. Harrison came in first place at the Hamilton Great Canadian Laugh Off and was featured in his own national comedy special on The Comedy Network. Tickets are $15. Call 519-252-7776. Visit comedyquarry.com.
Queen Milli of Galt: The Sun Parlour Players present a royal tale of love, laughter and mystery. There is an open dress rehearsal, Thursday, Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. Guests are welcome to pay what you can. Performances run for two weekends beginning Friday, Feb. 27, and Saturday, Feb. 28, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 1 at 2 p.m. at The Bank Theatre and Meeting Place, 10 Erie St. S. Leamington. By Gary Kirkham. Directed by Rick Taves. Tickets are $15. Call 519-326-8805. Visit banktheatre.com.
Women In Rock: Venue Music Hall spotlights some talented women in the music industry including local band Fresh Breath, Christine Campbell, Dilana Raw and Unplugged, and Sarah Smith, Friday, Feb. 27 at Venue Music Hall, 255 Ouellette Ave. Hosted by Jeff Burrows. Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, available at Dr. Disc, 471 Ouellette Ave. Visit ticketscene.ca.
Find Windsor Star on FacebookThe Windsor Star’s award-winning photographers covered the city and county Thursday. Check out the gallery.
John Strasser (left) and Dan Wilson congratulate Patricia France (right) during the announcement that she will replace John Strasser as president of St. Clair College during a press conference at St. Clair College in Windsor on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Patricia France talks with John Fairley during the announcement that Patricia France will replace John Strasser as president of St. Clair College during a press conference at St. Clair College in Windsor on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
Patricia France smiles during the announcement that she will replace John Strasser as president of St. Clair College during a press conference at St. Clair College in Windsor on Thursday, February 26, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
John Strasser (left) and Dan Wilson applaud during the announcement that Patricia France (right) will replace John Strasser as president of St. Clair College during a press conference at St. Clair College in Windsor on Thursday, February 26, 2015. (TYLER BROWNBRIDGE/The Windsor Star)
The Celebration of Nations event takes place at the University of Windsor C.A.W. Centre in Windsor, Ontario on February 26, 2015. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
The Celebration of Nations event takes place at the University of Windsor C.A.W. Centre in Windsor, Ontario on February 26, 2015. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
University of Windsor student Yutong Liu sings a traditional Chinese song during the Celebration of Nations event takes place at the University of Windsor C.A.W. Centre in Windsor, Ontario on February 26, 2015. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Harleen Sandhu, sings a Qawalli modern Pakistani song during the Celebration of Nations event at the University of Windsor C.A.W. Centre in Windsor, Ontario on February 26, 2015. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Ali Bazzi, food bank warehouse coordinator at the Unemployed Help Centre, sorts through some of the 10,000 pounds of fresh meat and eggs food donated by Libro Credit Union. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Cardinal Carter goalie Brandon Lavadan, left, makes a save during high school playoff hockey action against Kennedy at Adie Knox Arena. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Cardinal Carter goalie Brandon Lavadan, makes save during a shot from Kennedy Clippers Octavio Einsbeyor on February 26, 2015 at Adie Knox Arena. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Kennedy Clippers Octavio Einsbeyor skates down the ice during high school playoff hockey action against Cardinal Carter on February 26, 2015 at Adie Knox Arena. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Cardinal Carter goalie Brandon Lavadan, makes save during a shot from Kennedy Clippers Octavio Einsbeyor on February 26, 2015 at Adie Knox Arena. (JASON KRYK/The Windsor Star)
Bill Chaplin thought remarks made by Ontario PC Party MPP Rick Nicholls about not believing in evolution was a joke Thursday Feb. 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Spitfires Trevor Murphy, left, celebrates with Slater Doggett after Murphy scored his 20th goal of the year against Ottawa 67s in OHL action from WFCU Centre Thursday February 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Spitfires Logan Stanley, right, battles Ottawa 67s Sam Studnicka in OHL action from WFCU Centre Thursday February 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Windsor Spitfires Trevor Murphy collides with Ottawa 67s Jacob Middleton in first period of OHL action from WFCU Centre Thursday February 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Ottawa 67s Travis Konecny scores a dazzling goal against Windsor goaltender Alex Fotinos in first perod of OHL action from WFCU Centre Thursday February 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Ottawa 67s Jacob Middleton jumps past the check of Spits Cristiano DiGiacinto in first period of OHL action from WFCU Centre Thursday February 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
Ottawa 67s Travis Konecny goes around Spits defencemen Trevor Murphy and scored seconds later in OHL action from WFCU Centre Thursday February 26, 2015. (NICK BRANCACCIO/The Windsor Star)
