Our West End

Crime Reports

2012-02-13T11:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Residents:

I just uploaded the link to www.crimereports.com - a great resource to visually see criminal activity that is reported to police according to geographic location. You can find the link at the right side of the site. This is a great resource to track criminal activity and could be used as additional information to what we already share on Our West End.

As we move forward, it is critical that we communicate any and all criminal activity to Windsor Police. Unfortunately, a lot of crime goes unreported and this hinders Windsor Police's ability to do their job better. The more information we share, not just amongst ourselves but with our local police, the better intelligence Windsor Police has to make decisions in preventing and reducing crime in the west-end.

Remember, Our West End is a blog dedicated for residents to share information regarding crime, neighbourhood issues, opportunities and community assets with the primary intention of making West Windsor an even better place to live, work and play. We can only do this by working together with all parties in achieving this common vision.

Regards,
Fabio Costante

House Break & Enter

2012-02-09T18:53:00.000-08:00

Hi fabio,

I came accross many posts by you in Our West End. My house was robbed of Feb 4th, as well as three houses surrounding me only days before and I was not even aware of this. Several days before we were robbed two young men (east indian) knocked on our door and asked for someone who does not live in my house. When i told them they had the wrong place they did not leave, or apologize but merely stood there as i closed the door. The same night two houses around me were robbed. 3 days later my house was robbed while we were not home. Saturday Feb 4th between 12am and 2am. I live on the 400 block of Randolph St.

Source: West-end Resident

Car Break-Ins

2012-02-09T18:23:00.000-08:00

Two vehicles, one on the 2100 block of Vercheres and the second at the corner of Rankin and Vercheres, were broken into last night.

Source: West-end Resident

Neighbours demand Grace site demolition

2012-02-04T13:57:00.000-08:00

Neighbours demand Grace site demolition

Wyandotte St. W. Streetscaping Improvements

2012-02-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Residents:

It has come to my attention that there will be a meeting this Wednesday at 5pm at Adie Knox regarding the streetscaping that is to be done on Wyandotte St. W. Please see the link below for more details. See you there!

Fabio

http://citywindsor.ca/DisplayAttach.asp?AttachID=25735

Neighbourhood Nuisance

2012-02-01T17:50:00.000-08:00

Hi Fabio,

There was a large party on the 400 block of Askin on Saturday night, with many youths out on the street shouting and drinking and cabs coming and going between 10:30 pm through 4 am. Police were contacted at least twice, and were observed only once, at 12:50 am. At that time, they merely drove through the neighbourhood and did not stop at the house. This is a repeat of the behaviour at this address -- on the part of the tenants and the police -- that terrorized the neighbourhood for the past several years. A more effective deterrent must be considered.

Source: West-end Resident

Car Break-Ins

2012-02-01T17:45:00.000-08:00

Hi Fabio.

I find the information on our west end is fantastic. Thank you for your dedication and service.

Last night Jan 31, at Holy Name of Mary Church Parking lot, 3 Cars were broken into about 7:00 p.m. The passenger window were broken and the inside of the cars vandalized while meetings were in progress.

It is so sad to see this type of vandalism is happening even at a church.

Thanks again.

a west ender.

Graffiti

2012-01-30T14:21:00.000-08:00

Newly found graffiti at the Curry and McKay area around Grove.

Source: West-end Resident

Hi Fabio,
I live on Pelletier close to Curry, and I have a garage, with ally access and noticed on Saturday that my garage door got "tagged" with blue spray paint with the initials DCB? I think.or CBD something like that.
So, now my beige garage, had black and now new blue graffiti paint.
How do I get this off my vinyl siding and my garage door?
any ideas?

just letting you know that we have an "artist" around the area.
Thanks

Source: West-end Resident

The Station Restaurant

2012-01-29T09:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Residents:

This morning I had breakfast with a few friends at The Station restaurant located at the end of Pelletier St. just east of McKay Ave. It has been a few months since I've been to The Station as I used to frequent the place regularly over the past few years. For those who have never been, I highly recommend you check it out. It's almost hidden, located at the end of Pelletier St. before the tracks, but it has great breakfast (they also serve lunch and dinner) for very low prices considering the quantity of food you are getting.

It also has a bit of history. For those unfamiliar with the area, it is where our train station used to be until sometime before 1984 when the station ceased passenger travel. After many years of vacancy, an arsonist put an end to the station on November 15, 1996. However, the restaurant behind the station did not burn down and has been a local gem for the west-end community ever since.

I'll try and make it a habit to go once per week on either Saturday or Sunday morning. Feel free to join me sometime - the first coffee is on me.

Sincerely,
Fabio Costante

Graffiti - 900 Block of McEwan

2012-01-24T09:17:00.000-08:00

Hi Fabio,
I rent my home and this is what we just woke up to. Some stuff wrote on our garage. If anybody has seen or know anything about this, please let us know. This happened some time last night or the night before. I will post pics here also.. thanks, this is very upsetting to me and i'm sure the landlord will be very upset also...

This happened on the 900 block of Mcewan. Police were notified.

Source: West-end Resident

Car Break-Ins

2012-01-21T13:32:00.000-08:00

Hello Fabio:

There was a rash of car breakins Thursday evening/morning in the 200 block of Josephine Ave. About three or four cars had there windows smashed. Unkown as to what was taken. Cops were called and took a report and location of the crime. Thanks.

Source: West End Resident.

Windsor Chamber of Commerce Video - Positive Stories

2012-01-11T14:33:00.000-08:00

Dear Residents:

Recently I was nominated as a "Rising Star" in the Windsor community from the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is hosting an awards gala in April and at the gala I will be featured on video and will also be aired on Cogeco channel 11. They wanted to feature the work I've been doing in the west-end and asked if I could round up some residents in the area to be featured as well. We will be shooting primarily in the Bridgeview area but also perhaps in neighbourhoods close to the University and Sandwich Towne.

Please let me know if you would be interested in participating in the video. The shoot will be held on Monday, January 23rd at 9:30am and will last for no more than an hour. We will first meet at my house on California Ave. and proceed from there. The more residents we can get, the better. This is a great opportunity to show the business community and our region what the west-end is all about and how we are coming together to make a difference.

Please email me if you are interested in participating.

Thank you!

Fabio Costante

BBQ Stolen - 100 block of Campbell

2012-01-07T07:02:00.000-08:00

Good Morning Fabio,

I wanted to let you know that I had my BBQ stolen on New Year's Eve, shortly after midnight. I informed the police of the robbery. It was a Centro black and silver model. They threw the propane tank into my backyard and wheeled the BBQ south along the alley that separates the 100-200 blocks of Campbell and Josephine.

Source: West-End Resident

Car Break In on University Ave.

2012-01-06T07:16:00.001-08:00

Hello:

Went for breakfast at SUBWAY,on University Ave.,on Saturday AM and ... the owner mentioned to me that his car was broken into,plus some othere residents had there cars broken into as well. I do not know when this happened but sometime within the week.

Source: West-End Resident

Thank You for a Wonderful Year

2011-12-23T13:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Residents:

Over the past several years, I have had the privilege of meeting many of you at your doorsteps, your living rooms, your back porches and all throughout the community. I've heard incredible stories and learned so much from each and every one of you.

As the year comes to an end, I would first like to thank everyone who has been involved in Our West End. Whether it was knocking on doors or sending me an email reporting a crime -- I've received hundreds of emails this year -- your participation has made this experience worthwhile. Because of you, we have been able to share valuable information regarding crime and have been able to assist police and city authority regarding any issues and challenges we face. We have accomplished quite a bit in a short period of time. Some of our accomplishments include:

- Park lights ordered and soon to be installed in North Merritt Park
- Community Town Hall meeting for Bridgeview residents regarding traffic, crime and park lights
- Neighbourhood Watch formation in Bridgeview area
- Noise complaints processed
- Streetlight complaint at College/Randolph and in front of 349 Rankin was repaired
- Alley closing concerns addressed
- Valuable reporting on crime and helpful hints shared
- Hundreds of subscribers added to Our West End

Friends, our work has only begun. Yes, we have made progress, but there is much more to do before we can eradicate the perception that the west-end has been plagued with for years -- a perception of crime, instability and neglect. To make our west-end the best place to live, work and play, we have to continue to build on our momentum, continue knocking on doors and continue engaging citizens to get involved. Change will not come easy but I am confident that we are on the right path. We can rebuild this west-end, brick by brick, block by block, helping hand by helping hand. I look forward to continuing this work with you in 2012.

Please enjoy your holiday. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sincerely,
Fabio Costante

Three Windsor addresses raided as part of cross-Canada organized crime investigation

2011-12-13T19:13:00.000-08:00

Three Windsor addresses raided as part of cross-Canada organized crime investigation

Break-In 1200 Block of Partington

2011-12-10T22:33:00.000-08:00

There was a house break-in on the 1200 Block of Partington, Saturday night, December 11.

Source: West-End Resident

Naples Pizza Opening on Prince Rd.

2011-12-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

What was once an eyesore and vacant building with graffiti has now turned into a new Naples Pizza on Prince Rd. close to the Matchette intersection.

If you haven't tried Naples pizza before, I suggest you do. Stop by and support your local business.

Fabio Costante

Break-In on Vercheres

2011-12-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

Break-In on the 2200 block of Vercheres. Culprits broke into shed and took nothing. Police were notified.

Positive Stories -- Olde Sandwich enjoys the season

2011-12-09T10:26:00.000-08:00

Olde Sandwich enjoys the season

Positive Stories - Assumption Students and Small Business Re-Opening

2011-12-03T09:43:00.000-08:00

In keeping with our new promise of delivering positive stories of our west-end, I will share two: one from my experience at Assumption high school and the other from a resident in the west-end.

I was recently a guest speaker at Assumption high school where I presented to gr. 10 and gr. 12 students. I challenged the students to get involved in their local community, particularly in the west-end where they live and where they have an intimate connection. Several students brainstormed different community organizations and initiatives to get involved in and they discussed utilizing their required 40 hours of community service towards an initiative or project that will help the west-end.

Second positive story from west-end resident:
"I noticed the other day that the once closed variety store, Campbell at Grove - just north of Bridgeview Library, I think it is Grove, has re-opened...good news the store is back up and running and has a big sign offering deals."

All for now,
Fabio Costante

Females Targeted in Two Incidents on University of Windsor Campus, Saturday, Sunday Mornings | windsoriteDOTca - windsor ontario arts, music, hyperlocal news blog

2011-11-27T20:35:00.000-08:00

Females Targeted in Two Incidents on University of Windsor Campus, Saturday, Sunday Mornings | windsoriteDOTca - windsor ontario arts, music, hyperlocal news blog

Crafty solution to starting business - Olde Sandwich Towne

2011-11-24T17:14:00.000-08:00

Speaking of positive stories...

Crafty solution to starting business

Positive Stories

2011-11-24T17:01:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone:

I am deciding to incorporate more positive stories about the west-end routinely and continuously. After chatting with several subscribers and asking them for their honest input, the biggest trend I found was that people wanted to hear more positive, good stories about the west-end. I agree!! We have so much to be proud about and we should tell our story to the rest of the city and region. However, I can't do it alone and will ask that if anyone would like to write me a positive story about the west-end, I would be more than happy to post that story and share it with our many subscribers.

The original intent of Our West End was to discuss issues and opportunities related to our neighbourhoods, particularly to do with crime. I have always been and will always be adaptable to changes but I still believe our core purpose is to make the west-end the best place to live, work and play and in doing so, we should be up front and honest about our challenges, but also celebrate our strengths.

Touching upon the latter, and consistent with the them of being positive, I will get the ball rolling on two positive stories regarding our west-end and both have to do with our greatest asset: our people.

Yesterday I attended the Ward 2 debate which was extremely well attended. It was wonderful to see so many people engaged in the political process. It was a clear demonstration that west-ender's care about their neighbourhoods and love the area in which they live. I can say unequivocally -- and I know this because I've knocked on thousands of doors -- that people who reside in the west-end are resilient, good hard working people who care not only for themselves and their families, but also their neighbours and their respective community. I am fortunate to be a resident in the area and privileged to know so many great people.

This morning I presented to students at Forster high school. To many in this region, Forster is seen as a tough school where students have bleak futures. But today I saw something fundamentally different. I saw bright minds and energetic personalities with immense potential. All that these students need is a bit of hope and I am convinced that their future will be prosperous.

Like I mentioned earlier, it would be wonderful to have guest writers send me some positive stories every once in a while and I will post them to the blog. In addition, I will try to post one positive story per week if possible.

Thanks everyone for helping make Our West End the best place to live, work and play.

Fabio Costante

Police Reporting

2011-11-24T16:44:00.000-08:00

hey Fabio,

http://www.police.windsor.on.ca/online_reporting/On-Line%20rpts.htm

can you post this on your blog? I just did my report and it’s a great way to do this. if more ppl fill these out then it gives the police what they need to step up presence in the area.

At least it provides documentation that can be secured later in Court proceedings. eg. police inaction on the demonstrated demand for more presence.

900 Block of California Robbery

2011-11-24T16:42:00.001-08:00

2 men, (sounded young) ran through my yard and onto my back porch around 1am and stole the empty wine bottles that were there. They ran up very fast and left.

The fact that they were very fast infers that they knew what they were looking for since it is very dark back there and saw the items during daylight hours another day, or either went back there thinking it would stay dark and with no specific intent other than to see what they could steal. I have a sensor light in the back and they left suddenly when the light came on. Like I said, it was all very fast and I did not feel comfortable jumping out of bed in my underwear to confront persons unknown on my back porch.

I'm going to call the police and report it just for statistics. I'm going to step up my security. I'm sick of this Face's wednesday night drinkfest. It's always the same around this hour.

Source: West-End Resident

Comments for Ward 2 meeting on November 23, 2011

2011-11-22T07:28:00.001-08:00

Below is a letter that was written by a Ward 2 resident who will be unable to attend Wednesday's Ward 2 meeting. His concerns and letter are as follows:

I thank the representatives of the city and university for taking the time to hear comments from residents. As I am unable to attend the Ward 2 meeting, I am providing these comments by email. As suggested by council staff, I have indicated those comments to which I request a reply.

My vision for the neighbourhood is a clean, quiet, happy place with a diverse mix of families, university professors, graduate students, undergraduate students, and retirees. The city and university should encourage and support diverse populations and property use within each neighbourhood since experience has shown that concentrating any one population leads to problems.

1. Parking by-law enforcement

A. I commend the Commissionaires for their generally prompt response to complaints made on weekdays and Saturdays and they usually lay a ticket.

B. Police are slower to respond to parking complaints after hours and on Sundays and holidays, which I fully understand since it is a low priority call. I do not understand the unwillingness to write a parking ticket for even the most obvious violations. I have observed several instances where all the police officers do is tell the driver to move the car so they don't need to lay a ticket.

C. Parking on the lawn should be ticketed by the Commissionaires immediately instead of by the building inspectors after a few weeks of repeated complaints. If this requires a revision to the by-laws, then city council should get started on it. [I request a reply]

D. The parking permit system is broken. The restriction against a resident of the zone passing a permit to someone living outside the zone is easy to violate and apparently not enforced. My street is full of parked cars during the day and most of those cars are gone at night. That would not happen if the permits were truly issued only to drivers who lived on my street. I propose instead a permit that is: permanently affixed to each vehicle; renewable for varible time periods to match academic schedules; and remotely scannable by an enforcement officer driving by. [I request a reply]

2. Dirty yard/uncollected trash by-law enforcement

A. By-law officers need to be quicker responding to these complaints. Every day that a mattress, or a couch, or a roll of carpeting, or an old broken cabinet stays on the curb is another day of irritation for the responsible residents in the neighbourhood and another day of evaded accountability for the irresponsible residents. The by-law is on the books; enforce it.

B. There is a clear pattern during the year for the number of these complaints, with most coming at the end of the academic term when renters move in our out. There should be a corresponding level of effort by the city to address these complaints.

C. Is there already a summary report published by the city for dirty yard enforcement? If so, please tell me how to obtain it. If not, I request that one be prepared on an annual basis for each ward showing: the number of complaints received, the number of 'orders to comply' issued, the number of violations of those orders, the number of times a city crew picked up the trash, and the amount of fees charged to property owners. [I request a reply]

D. How can I find out from public records where the fees charged for city cleanups of dirty yards are accounted for? [I request a reply]

3. Noise by-law enforcement

A. I have been disappointed for years by the indifferent and ineffective response of both police and by-law officers to repeated complaints. In the latest round of disappointment, I made two complaints a few weeks apart against the same address. A by-law officer responded by warning the residents at that address that more complaints may lead to charges. He informed me that I would need to testify in court and I replied that I would do that. After a third incident and complaint from me, the by-law officer informed me that my complaints were not sufficient to lay any charges and the file was closed.

B. I would like to know from either the police or by-law (preferably both) what evidence they require to lay a charge for a noise by-law violation. [I request a reply]

C. Since most noise complaints in the neighbourhood occur late at night when the by-law officers are not available, the police need to apply a consistent and aggressive protocol to end the cycle of repeated violations that occur at a small number of locations. Patrol officers prefer to exercise their discretion on such calls, but my experience has shown that approach to be wholly inadequate.

D. The protocol I propose for the police response to house parties is:

First call to an address: Move all the guests inside or send them home, identify the tenants, name them in the call report, and warn them the next call will result in a Part I summary citation.

Second call to the same address: Move all the guests inside or send them home, identify the tenants, name them in the call report, issue a Part I summary citation to anyone previously warned, and warn them the next call will result in a Part III charge and a court appearance.

Third call to the same address: Move all the guests inside or send them home, identify the tenants, name them in the call report, lay a Part III charge against anyone previously cited.

It doesn't matter if these calls are an hour apart or a year apart. If the same residents at the same address repeatedly violate the by-law, they must be called to account. [I request a reply]

E. On Friday of the Halloween weekend of 2010, all the house parties on Askin and Randolph north of Wyandotte were monitored by extra patrols and all were shut down before midnight. That was a thoroughly satisfactory response by the police. On Saturday, there was no such response and several house parties in the same area went on most of the night. The pattern for house parties in Ward 2 is well established: the first weekend of term in September, the Halloween weekend, and the last weekend of term in April. I would like to see added patrols on Friday and Saturday of those weekends and to see all the parties shut down by midnight. I know the police are capable of it, but I don't know why they don't do it consistently.

4. Coordinated response

A. I propose the U-W campus police “powers and patrol area” be expanded so they can promptly confirm complaints the police respond to slowly (like noise and parking). I am not asking the campus police to enforce any laws, or even get out of their vehicles. I am only asking they be dispatched by the city police to the scene of common late-night complaints (noise, public drunkenness, disorderly conduct, parking, etc.). Once on the scene, the campus police would report the situation to the city police dispatcher to either confirm or deny the complaint and assess the need for a more timely city police response. Because the city police often take an hour or more to respond to common complaints in the neighbourhood, the proximity and quicker response time of the campus police should be exploited. [I request a reply]

B. Is there any data exchange between the by-law office, the city police, and the campus police so that an officer of any agency responding to a given address can view a list of complaints reported to the other agencies? [I request a reply]

5. Follow-up on Mill Street keg party of September 2009

A Windsor Star article of September 28, 2009 indicated that several people were arrested for public drunkenness, obstructing justice, and resisting arrest at a keg party on Mill Street. The same article states the police were investigating possible charges under the Liquor License Act. How were all of these charges resolved? Were guilty pleas obtained and fines imposed? Were any charges taken to trial? If so, what were the results of those trials? [I request a reply]

6. Sidewalks and snow

What does the city require of a resident regarding clearing the sidewalk in front of their residence after a snowfall? [I request a reply]

Break-In 900 Block of California Ave.

2011-11-22T05:44:00.000-08:00

Hi Fabio...my neighbours house was broken into around 6:00 pm on Sunday evening. He believes they came through the front window. He also owns a dog which I never heard bark so he believes it could have been someone who knows them. They took a lap top and a new computer and a few other electronic items. He had just installed a new porch light as well as there had been a previous attempt a month or 2 ago. There has been much more foot traffic in the area from students so thieves blend in. I believe houses in this area are being targeted due to people believing most of the houses are student residences and have electronics in them.

Man stabbed at house party

2011-11-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

Man stabbed at house party

Stolen Bikes

2011-11-18T14:20:00.000-08:00

The two clips below show two young men collaborating and stealing bikes at the UPlace in Sandwich Towne on Peter St, right across from St. Francis grade school. The police have been contacted. If you can identify the culprits please notify the police.

Source: West-End Resident and Management of UPlace

Bike theft November 7, 2011 - Close up view of one of the culprits

2011-11-18T14:10:00.001-08:00

Bike thieves caught on video November 7, 2011 - UPlace in Sandwich Towne on Peter St.

2011-11-18T14:10:00.000-08:00

Author promotes entrepreneurship

2011-11-17T16:03:00.000-08:00

Dear residents:
I had mentioned in an earlier blog post that more could be done to attract entrepreneurs and small business owners to the west-end. I was recently interviewed by Dave Hall in today's Windsor star regarding my book: Principles of Entrepreneurship: Building a Resilient Windsor-Essex Economy, One Entrepreneur at a Time. You can read today's column at the following link: Author promotes entrepreneurship

Regards,
Fabio Costante

North Merritt Park

2011-11-17T08:37:00.000-08:00

There was graffiti recently painted along the fences facing North Merritt Park, particularly on the properties adjacent to Vercheres, Askin and Merritt. The action took place sometime after dark and before morning. Police were notified and already inspected the premises. Evidence such as paint cans was gathered and will hopefully be useful in catching the culprit(s).

Source: West-End Resident

Windsor Targets Abandoned Homes

2011-11-15T19:42:00.000-08:00

The City of Windsor plans to get tough on owners of abandoned or derelict buildings. City council will deal with a "blight mitigation strategy," which was developed by city staff. This may have implications on the boarded-up homes in Sandwich Towne. See the link to learn more: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/story/2011/11/15/wdr-blight-mitigation-strategy.html

Friends of the Court

2011-11-15T19:26:00.000-08:00

I was invited and attended the Friends of the Court annual general meeting. The Friends of the Court does work throughout the year to ensure that Mackenzie Hall remains the vibrant Cultural Centre it has grown to be. To learn more about the Friends of the Court or Mackenzie Hall, click on the following link: http://www.citywindsor.ca/002846.asp

Fabio Costante

Thank You

2011-11-14T19:30:00.000-08:00

Just a quick thank you to all of the volunteers who have helped me deliver flyers and knock on doors these past few weeks. The success of Our West End is highly dependent on the level of involvement from residents in the area. Whether it's reporting a crime, discussing an issue, helping spread the word by canvassing and dropping flyers, or simply telling friends and neighbours about what we do; every little bit counts. So again, THANK YOU!

I will continue dropping flyers and canvassing every Sunday until the holidays. If you're interested in coming along, please drop me an email at fabiocostante@gmail.com or call 519-567-8719.

All the best,
Fabio

Concern Over West-End Parks

2011-11-14T19:22:00.000-08:00

Hi Fabio,

I have attached the Park Usage Report and the appendixes, the council minutes from July 4 --which aren't very informative (they deferred), although I think it is interesting to note that the topic was identified as "surplus parkland" (pg. 20 of July 4 council minutes) and that the report is titled "Park Usage", while all the media coverage is about the City's obligations under the accessibility legislation. (Does this seem odd to you?--I am thinking that the accessibility legislation is being used as an "enabler" for the sale of public parks that Council has tried in the past.)

One line from the report particularly concerns me: "In some cases the function of a neighbourhood park can be better accommodated by the closest community/regional park." Clearly, Ward 2 is "deficient" in "neighbourhood" parks and over-supplied in "community/regional" parks--the waterfront, Mic Mac and Malden are all in our catchment--I am concerned that this statement sets us up for being "better accommodated by community/regional" parks rather than our neighbourhood parks.

Finally, the statement "A separate in-camera report will be forwarded for Councils consideration regarding the acquisition/disposition of park land in accordance with the City's Procedural By-Law." also concerns me greatly, as I am afraid that the decisions about our parks might be taken behind closed doors and presented "Fait accompli".

Please forward these documents to others in our neighbourhood who might share my concerns and urge them to come to the Ward meeting on November 23.

If residents would like copies of the documents aforementioned, please email me at fabiocostante@gmail.com. I apologize for not being able to attach them to this post but unfortunately blogger doesn't allow word attachments.

Attempted Break-In on Vercheres

2011-11-12T16:29:00.000-08:00

There was an attempted break-in on the 2100 block of Vercheres earlier this week. Fortunately, the culprits were unsuccessful in trying to get into the house. Police have been contacted.

Source: West-End Resident

Noise Complaint: City of Windsor By-Law 6716

2011-11-11T13:10:00.001-08:00

Dear residents:

After receiving several complaints related to by-law enforcement I met with a west-end resident who brought to my attention by-law 6716 and its respective "Witness Statement" document. This document clearly demonstrates how to form a complaint specifically related to noise on your street. You can see what is required below and if you would like an electronic copy, please send me an email at fabiocostante@gmail.com and I will gladly send you one. And remember, the more noise complaints filed by a greater number of residents about a particular issue(s), the more likely the city will enforce its authority over such issue(s).

NOISECOMPLAINT, CITY OF WINDSOR BY-LAW 6716

WITNESSSTATEMENT

I, (name)______________________________________________________________________

of (address of Residence)_____________________________________________________

state that the following informationis true to the best of my knowledge and belief (please attach additional pagesif required):

PARTICULARS	DETAILS
Date of Incident
Description Of Noise (Include as many details as possible)
From where did noise originate? (Include address) How do you know it came from there?
Where were you when you heard the noise? (Include Address)
Were Windows/Doors Open? At your location? At offence location?	Yes No Yes No Yes No
Did it interfere with your quality of life? If so, in what way?

________________________________________________ ___________________________________

Signature of Witness Date

Proposed Lease of Sandwich Parkette at 3110 Sandwich St

2011-11-07T18:47:00.000-08:00

City Council approved the lease of the property known municipally as 3110 Sandwich Street for a period of ten years, subject to mutually agreed upon terms and conditions between the City of Windsor and Suncor Energy Product Partnership.

The land will continue to be used as a parkette under the lease agreement.

To learn more about the agreement see this link: http://www.citywindsor.ca/DisplayAttach.asp?AttachID=24639

Sincerely,

Fabio Costante

River Rouge stops hum investigation

2011-11-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

River Rouge stops hum investigation

McEwan -- Replica gun sparks heavy police response

2011-11-07T10:12:00.000-08:00

Replica gun sparks heavy police response

Ward 2 Meeting

2011-11-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

Dear residents:

On November 23 at 6pm, Councilor Ron Jones will host a Ward 2 meeting at the Church of the Ascension on University Ave. W. The meeting will address accomplishments and future plans and will feature representation from Windsor Police, Public works and the Planning and Bylaw department.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Sincerely,
Fabio Costante

Stolen Bike

2011-10-31T20:52:00.001-07:00

hi my son's bike was taken last night sometime in the 900 block of mcewan

Source: West-End Resident

Stolen Hibiscus Tree

2011-10-31T20:50:00.001-07:00

A week ago,Sat or Sun, someone stole a hibiscus tree off our front porch in 800 block of curry.

Source: West-End Resident

Askin Ave. Tire Slashing

2011-10-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

There were several parties over the weekend on Askin and Randolph and as a consequence at least 4 cars on Askin had their tires slashed. Police were notified and pictures were taken. Residents of Askin will be seeking to organize and work with appropriate authorities around common issues that include better bylaw enforcement and a police plan to help mitigate such issues.

Source: West-End Resident

Sunday Canvassing

2011-10-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Residents:

Beginning tomorrow and every Sunday until Christmas (assuming weather cooperates) I will be canvassing door-to-door in the west-end and continue getting residents subscribed to the ourwestend.com blog, along with assisting in any neighbourhood issues and opportunities. I will generally be out in the afternoons.

If you are interested in volunteering a few hours on any given Sunday, please let me know and I can discuss in more detail what areas and neighbourhoods will be of primary focus.

You can participate by either dropping flyers in mailboxes or by knocking on doors and getting residents subscribed to the blog.

In addition, please remind your family, friends and neighbours who live in the west-end to subscribe to the blog when they have a chance. The effectiveness of the blog will increase with more people subscribed because more information will be shared and more people will be aware of such information, whether it be crime related or other neighbourhood issues.

Thank you and have a Happy Halloweekend!!

Fabio Costante

Car Break-In on Vercheres

2011-10-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

There was a car break-in on the 2200 block of Vercheres. Police was notified.

Source: West-End Resident

Vandalism at Holy Name of Mary Church

2011-10-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

"The church steps were re-cemented yesterday Oct. 25 and the care taker of the church stayed in the church until 8:00 p.m.

When the care taker came back this morning oct. 26, he found that someone has written in the cement "THE PIG WAS HERE". Thank God this was done on one side of a step.

So; From all the people who attend Holy Name of Mary church we say to you "PIG" WE WILL WATCH FOR YOU ALONG WITH WINDSOR POLICE and you will get your reward.

Grow up ! This is not funny."

Source: West-End Resident

Town Hall Meeting Follow-up

2011-10-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

Dear west-end residents:

I received an email today from council services following up on our town hall meeting held two weeks ago. Below are some of the issues that already have been addressed by each respective authority:

- Noise complaint about Faces on College, the Supervisor of Licensing & Deputy Licence Commissioner indicates that the complaint process is through Windsor Police, they would enforce in the evenings, afterhours, residents should call Windsor Police to report these complaints, afterhours.
- The streetlight complaint at College/Randolph, and in front of 349 Rankin was repaired on Friday.
- I forwarded the alley closing concern to the appropriate dept. for response, the resident should be contacted directly.
- Other concerns re: adding lighting have budget implications, Councillor Jones will have to update you regarding these issues.

As to the last issue, we know that North Merritt Park was already approved for lighting.

We are seeing results thanks to the great teamwork of west-end residents, our city councillor, Windsor Police and City of Windsor administration.

Let's continue building on this. We are in this together.

Sincerely,

Fabio Costante

Windsor police nab one suspect, seek others after van slams into house

2011-10-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

Police ask anyone with information about the incident or the identities of the fugitives to call the investigations branch at 519-255-6700, ext. 4830, or Crime Stoppers at 519-258-TIPS (8477).

Windsor police nab one suspect, seek others after van slams into house

Fabio Costante

Walkerville to institute Neighbourhood Watch

2011-10-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

Once a neighbourhood watch is established in Walkerville, they will move to Drouillard rd and then come to the west-end. In the meantime, spread the word with neighbours and friends so that you are prepared and organized prior to the formal establishment of a neighbourhood watch in your area.

Walkerville to institute Neighbourhood Watch

Fabio Costante

Encounter on Totten rd.

2011-10-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

"On Saturday night around 10 o'clock pm I was driving down Totten headed towards Dominion and came across 3 men standing in the middle of the road..they spread out across the street so that I could not pass by them. They were wearing dark clothing and hoods with something covering their faces. They lunged for the passenger door handle and tried to open the door. I sped away very quickly and thank God was able to get away from them. I called the police as well once I was a safe distance away but have no idea if they were caught or if the police found anything. I am letting you know so that you are able to let others know as well."

Source: West-End Resident

Car Break-Ins on California

2011-10-18T05:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Fabio,

I hope law school is going ok. Just wanted to let you know that my neighbour in the 900 block of California and 7 other car owners with cars parked in the alleyway behind Faces and further down behind California had their cars broken into Saturday night/Sunday morning. My neighbours are old,. and they don't need that! the police had told them about 8 cars were hit and that lights in the back only serve to light the way for thieves, since no one is back in the alley or any cameras are there. My neighbour's car has an alarm, that did not go off which tells me these thieves know what they're doing.

Source: West-End Resident

Lights to be Installed in Merritt Park

2011-10-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

I received a call Monday morning and it was confirmed by councillor Jones at city council Monday night that lights will be installed in Merritt Park within the next few weeks. We did it! Congrats to everyone involved and to the residents who live in Bridgeview.

Sincerely,

Fabio Costante

We Are In This Together

2011-10-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

Dear West-End Residents:

Over the past week we have seen what a group of residents can do when they work together. On Thursday, October 13 we held a community town hall meeting where over 50 residents from the Bridgeview area attended and were given a presentation along with having questions answered from both Windsor Police and City of Windsor Administration.

Issues such as park lights, crime, traffic and parking, bylaw enforcement and nuisance control were all discussed. In addition to asking questions and engaging in meaningful conversation, residents had the opportunity to write down any concerns and submit them directly to the appropriate authority who were present.

The media really jumped on this. The Windsor Star, AM800, CBC Radio and CBC Television all covered this story, along with other media sources. They particularly credited our grass-roots organization and how we were able to take our issues into our own hands.

Last night my vehicle was broken into for the second time this year on the 1000 block of California. My passenger door window was shattered but luckily I did not have any valuables that were worth stealing. I immediately reported the crime to the Windsor Police once I found out and told several neighbours earlier Sunday morning. Fortunately, I was the only person on my street that had their car broken into.

Despite this recent encounter, I remain optimistic; I remain hopeful because of what has transpired over this past week. I know that the changes we seek in our neighbourhoods and in our west-end will not come easy, but I also know that for us to realize these changes, we must come together and work together and take ownership of our community. That is our only choice. By working with Windsor Police, the city of Windsor and with each other, we can forge ahead and overcome the challenges and meet the opportunities before us.

When my car is broken into, that affects the safety of residents not just on my street, but in our west-end. When a house is borded up in Sandwich Towne, that affects our quality of life. When irresponsible landlords erode our neighbourhoods, or when bylaws are not enforced, or when our parks are no longer safe, that affects all of our property values. When a school shuts down on Wyandotte St. W. or Peter St., that affects the small businesses and families all across our west-end. We are all interconnected, both socially and economically. We are all in this together, and only we are the ones who can reclaim our streets, our neighbourhoods, and our west-end.

Let what happened this week be an example of how ordinary citizens can do extraordinary things when they work together.

Sincerely,

Fabio Costante

In case you missed some of our media coverage, see the two links below.

Residents tackle west-end park problem

http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/News/Local_News/Windsor/1317913355/ID=2153232576

Windsor group launches appeal in boarded up Ambassador Bridge homes case

2011-10-12T11:23:00.001-07:00

Windsor group launches appeal in boarded up Ambassador Bridge homes case

Windsor police seek suspects in connection with Partington Avenue arson

2011-10-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

Windsor police seek suspects in connection with Partington Avenue arson

Good Samaritans save woman from attack

2011-10-09T10:33:00.000-07:00

Good Samaritans save woman from attack

Bridgeview Crime Update

2011-10-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

I live on Merritt Drive and on October 7th, 2011 during the night my SUV was broken into and my Garmin GPS was stolen. As a resident and a Tax payer, I would appreciate having a light installed in the park and for Windsor Police to patrol in the Bridgeview area. Windsor Police showing their presence in the Bridgeview area would help. Thank you

Source: West-End Resident

Crime, Parking/Traffic and Park Lights

2011-10-06T15:43:00.000-07:00

To the Residents who live in the Bridgeview area and all who may be concerned,

Please join me next Thursday, October 13 at 7pm where I will be moderating a town hall meeting alongside Councillor Ron Jones regarding crime, parking/traffic and park lights. There have been some concerns related to these issues from Bridgeview residents and as such, City of Windsor Parks/Traffic, Public Works admin staff and Windsor Police will be in attendance to give presentations and to hear any concerns or ideas you may have.

The meeting will take place at the University of Windsor Human Kinetics Building, 2555 College Ave. - Room 145 (enter from east parking lot) on Thursday October 13, 2011 at 7pm.

If you have any questions you can call me at 519-567-8719 or councilor Jones at 519-252-1005.

Sincerely,

Fabio Costante

Woman in critical condition after west end house fire

2011-09-24T17:41:00.000-07:00

Woman in critical condition after west end house fire

Homeowner mulls selling to bridge

2011-09-20T17:41:00.000-07:00

Homeowner mulls selling to bridge

Stolen Lawnmower - Bridgeview Area

2011-09-20T17:30:00.000-07:00

"Hi Fabio, I just wanted you to know that my lawnmower was stolen out of my back yard shed sometime between last Thursday and the week before. It is a black top Tecumseh brand older model and it was just recently fixed, we may have used it once before we noticed it missing last Thursday when I went to cut the grass. It is gas powered and they left the gas container in the shed and just took the mower. I live on Josephine/Grove Ave."

Source: West-End Resident

Roxy the dog reunited with Windsor family: 'The kids are ecstatic'

2011-09-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Roxy the dog reunited with Windsor family: 'The kids are ecstatic'

Win vs. bridge hollow

2011-09-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

Win vs. bridge hollow

Puppy Thief Targets Windsor Family

2011-09-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

Puppy Thief Targets Windsor Family: Justin Derochie talks to The Windsor Star

Puppy stolen in break-in, family says

2011-09-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Puppy stolen in break-in, family says

B&E 1000 Block of Califronia Ave.

2011-09-15T11:59:00.000-07:00

Home invasion on California Ave yesterday...stolen property and family pet

Our dog Roxy was taken on Sept 14 at the 100 block of California Ave In Windsor's West Side.. We just want our dog back!! Please HELP... My kids are devasted our home had the door kicked in and they took a lot but only thing my kids want back is their dog Roxy...

Source: West-End Resident

Windsor wins court fight against bridge and residents over boarded-up homes

2011-09-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

Windsor wins court fight against bridge and residents over boarded-up homes

The Windsor/Essex County Hum

2011-09-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

The following was sent to me last night by a nearby neighbour:

"Hearing rumbling Campbell & Tecumseh @ 10:11 pm Fri Sept. 8"

I posted this on the facebook group and they are plotting all the areas where noises are being heard or felt. If you experience anything similar, feel free to send me an email or if you have facebook, join this group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/WindsorHum/

Fabio

Attracting Investment and Creating Jobs in the West-End

2011-09-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,

I recently published a book entitled "Principles of Entrepreneurship: Building a Resilient Windsor-Essex Economy, One Entrepreneur at a Time." The book is available online at the following link: Principles of Entrepreneurship - Trafford

There are two main reasons why I wrote this book: 1) To help and assist entrepreneurs and small business owners; and 2) To help foster and entrepreneurial environment in our region; one that can create wealth and produce jobs.

I believe the west-end has a unique advantage in attracting business investment because of the location of the University of Windsor. If we take advantage of the resources at the University of Windsor and promote these resources to entrepreneurs, we may see more investment in the area. Such resources include, but are not limited to, business consulting centres, legal advice and assistance, students willing and ready to help with building a business or finding solutions to current business issues, and plenty of professors who can provide their expertise.

One example of how these resources are being tapped is the recent partnership between Forster high school and the University of Windsor whereby students at Forster who have a business idea can now access university resources to see if such an idea could actually generate income and become a market opportunity. This recent partnership helped several Forster students receive government grants to start their small business.

For an institution that's in our backyard and is considered one of the gems in this region, we have not done a good enough job of extracting its potential resources. It is my hope that this book can spur some awareness around entrepreneurship and small business in our region and particularly in the west-end.

I envision a west-end where University Ave., Wyandotte St. W., Sandwich St., Mill St., Prince Rd. and all of the streets in between have flourishing businesses that produce jobs and stimulate investments in our neighbourhoods. I know we can do this because as a student years ago I was on the ground helping businesses on Wyandotte St. W. with other classmates and professors.

Sometimes the solutions to our problems lay right in front of us, we just have to be willing to see them and ready to act.

All for now,
Fabio Costante

Friends for Atkinson Fundraiser and Askin Ave. Annual Block Party

2011-09-06T18:15:00.000-07:00

Over the long weekend I attended both the Friends for Atkinson fundraiser and the Askin Ave. annual block party.

Friends for Atkinson is a non-profit group of community activists who raise money and help maintain the Atkinson Park located on Riverside and Bridge. This past Saturday, they held a fundraiser where all the proceeds went towards swimming lessons for kids in the west-end.

Every year, neighbours on Askin Ave. host a block party that brings together the community -- not only those who live on Askin but also the surrounding neighbourhoods -- where food is shared and guests such as the President of the University of Windsor is in attendance.

Both events were well attended and convincingly demonstrated the pride many west-ender's take in their community. And both Friends for Atkinson and the committed neighbours on Askin are great inspirational examples of how a group of people can change the place where they live

After all, these are our streets, our neighbourhoods, and certainly our west-end.

To the organizers of both events -- GREAT WORK and THANK YOU!!

Fabio Costante

2011-09-04T17:54:00.001-07:00

Several cars damaged with key scrapes on the 1200 block of Askin.

Source: West-End Resident

Windsor Hum Plotted on Map

2011-08-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

See the plotted areas -- many are concentrated in the west-end. You can join the facebook group if you have heard the humming noise by clicking on the link below.

Windsor Hum Plotted on Map

College Ave. Bridge Update -- Critics slam Grits' funding spree

2011-08-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Critics slam Grits' funding spree

Drug Dealing - Bridgeview

2011-08-23T10:10:00.001-07:00

Alleged continuous drug dealing on the corner of Randolph and College. If residents see suspicious activity in that vicinity, please call the police.

Source: West-End Resident

City considering west-end bylaw exemptions

2011-08-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

City considering west-end bylaw exemptions

BBQ Fundraiser for Friends for Atkinson Swimming Lessons

2011-08-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 3, from 12pm - 6pm, Councilor Ron Jones and the Friends for Atkinson group are hosting a bbq fundraiser. The bbq will be held at Atkinson Park (Riverside Dr. W. at Bridge Ave.) where ribs and two sides will be served for $20. All proceeds will support the Friends for Atkinson swimming lessons.

There will be free swimming for kids from 1:30pm - 5pm. In addition, I will have information available for families and residents interested in setting up a neighbourhood watch and organizing their block where they live.

For tickets or more information, please call 519-252-1005 or 519-973-7391.

Fabio

College Ave Bridge

2011-08-09T06:12:00.000-07:00

City council has approved the awarding of contracts or the beginning of negotiations on a number of Windsor projects.

Facca Inc. will be hired to build a temporary replacement for the College Avenue bridge over the railroad tracks between Wellington and McKay avenues.

The contract will pay Facca Inc. $1.22 million.

West End Police Chase Lands Three in Custody | windsoriteDOTca - windsor ontario arts, music, hyperlocal news blog

2011-08-08T15:20:00.000-07:00

West End Police Chase Lands Three in Custody | windsoriteDOTca - windsor ontario arts, music, hyperlocal news blog

Charged Robber out on Bail

2011-08-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

You may recall a break-in that occurred approximately 1 month ago (see link: http://www.windsorstar.com/news/Senior+charged+with+robbery/5095486/story.html) on McEwan Ave. where a 66 yr old threatened homeowners with a knife. He was charged with two counts of robbery, two counts of forcible confinement, uttering threats to cause death and assault with a weapon.

I was told today that he is out on bail from a resident who lives on McEwan Ave.

Source: West-End Resident

Suspect sought after high-speed chase near Windsor

2011-08-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

Suspect sought after high-speed chase near Windsor

Teen stabbed in west end brawl

2011-08-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

Teen stabbed in west end brawl

Crime Updates -- Bridgeview

2011-08-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

A lawnmower and bicycle was stolen at the corner of Vercheres and Rankin yesterday night. Also, there was an attempted robbery at another house on Vercheres at around 11pm where two youth broke into a backyard shed but were caught by the house resident before stealing anything. Unfortunately, both youth escaped and getting an accurate description of their features was difficult due to the time of the night.

Source: West-End Resident

Builder eyed for College bridge

2011-08-03T08:42:00.000-07:00

Builder eyed for College bridge

Forster bandmates reunite to celebrate life-changing experience

2011-08-01T08:07:00.000-07:00

Forster bandmates reunite to celebrate life-changing experience

Re: Missing Gnome

2011-07-31T08:39:00.001-07:00

There is a house (white ranch) on the corner of Rankin and Tilston with lots of them, perhaps it's from there.

Source: West-End Resident

Missing Gnome

2011-07-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

Good Morning,

I thought I saw something on here about garden statutes go missing, cannot find it.

Approx. 2 nights ago, person(s) unknown - moved For Sale signs from vacant houses and put on lawns/homes that were not for sale in the 900 block of Partington. This was moved back but then I noticed this Gnome on the front porch of a vacant house.

I have brought it home with me hoping to get it back to the rightful owner. If you know whose this might be, please have them contact me at thood@bell.net or give me their info and i can drop it off.

Thanks.

T. Hood

Source: West-End Resident

UofW Parking Update

2011-07-28T10:16:00.000-07:00

To all students concerned with parking at the University of Windsor:

More information has been received on parking at the UofW. The facts with students who are concerned are as follows:
-- Although passes are oversold in relation to spots available, parking services guarantees 100% that all students will receive a parking spot. This may mean parking on lots that require a longer distance walk to campus.
-- If the parking spots were sold on a 1:1 ratio, there would be far too many spots available at all hours of the day and far too many students without a parking pass.
-- A parking pass should be viewed as a right to park but not at a particular spot. It is a right to park, and there is a guarantee that parking is available, but it may be at a location that requires 5-10 minutes of walking distance.

In comparison to other campuses across Ontario -- especially in the GTA -- the radius from which there are parking spots available is not that overwhelming.

Should you have any further questions or concerns, please contact Parking Services at 519-253-3000 Ext. 2413.

Beaten grandma hurt, scared

2011-07-28T09:56:00.000-07:00

Beaten grandma hurt, scared

Grafitti -- 1500 Block of College

2011-07-21T07:21:00.000-07:00

House sprayed with gold paint between Weds July 20-21 on the 1500 block of College Ave.

There has been a police report made, so anyone with any info - please let us know.

Source: West-end Resident on College Ave.

Sandwich Towne -- Woman, 63, suffers fractured ribs, shoulder and skull in carjacking

2011-07-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

Woman, 63, suffers fractured ribs, shoulder and skull in carjacking

UofW and Forster Partnership Creates Economic Opportunities for Youth

2011-07-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

Due to a recent partnership between the University of Windsor School of Business and Forster high school, 5 students from Forster received government grants to run their own business over the summer. This is very positive news considering that prior to this initiative, the same students had no conception of starting a business or anything of that nature.

Partnerships with the University must continue not only with schools in the west-end, but with various institutions and businesses. The University is a gem in our community and it is in our backyard. We must do a better job of creating partnerships to better utilize the resources and readily available skills that the University has to offer.

Fabio

Helping hands clean up Windsor park

2011-07-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

Helping hands clean up Windsor park: "Marilyn Woodison, chair of Friends for Atkinson, discusses the volunteer efforts in cleaning up the park in Windsor, Ont., Saturday, July 16, 2011."

Thanks to the Friends for Atkinson group and the incredible work they do.

In addition to our neighbourhood watch initiative, stay tuned for more positive stories happening in our west-end community.

Fabio

Police investigate knifepoint robberies on Mill St.

2011-07-15T09:03:00.000-07:00

Police investigate knifepoint robberies on Mill St.

Senior charged with robbery

2011-07-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

Justice has been served.

Senior charged with robbery

Windsor seniors robbed, tied up by senior

2011-07-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

I will continue posting as this story develops. I talked to neighbours in the area this past Sunday and encouraged them to start a neighbourhood watch on their block on McEwan and Taylor street. There have been several incidents in that area over the past month. Fabio.

Windsor seniors robbed, tied up by senior

Police seek 66-year-old for home invasion, robbery

2011-07-11T13:03:00.000-07:00

Police seek 66-year-old for home invasion, robbery