The Shores of Erie International Wine Festival is cancelling its four-day event this year, as festival organizers face alcohol-related charges.
Patrick Ducharme, the lawyer representing the accused board members, isn't saying exactly why the festival was cancelled.
Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo is saddened by the decision, as the town will miss out on its economic impact. "The immediate loss to the wineries and food vendors that frequent the event is going to be big, and I think there's a lot of financial loss spin-off. I don't think people realize how much money they make that goes to charities and non-profit groups in town as well."
When asked if the cancellation is permanent, Ducharme says no decision has been made for the 2016 festival.
Last month, Amherstburg police laid 11 charges against all board members of the wine festival and Sobeys Amherstburg. The charges relate to permitting underage drinking and failing to check ID for a person under 19.
In September 2014, 18-year-old Emily Bernauer of LaSalle was killed in a single-vehicle car accident after leaving the Shores of Erie Wine Festival. Police say alcohol was a contributing factor in her death. Amherstburg police have said Bernauer worked in the Sobeys booth at the wine festival.
The Alcohol and Gaming Commission has been actively investigating the Shores of Erie Wine Festival as it was issued a special occasions permit. A commission spokesperson tells BlackburnNews.com that it does not divulge the outcome of any investigation unless an appeal is made, which then automatically makes the information public.
--with files from Mike Vlasveld