Funding for new long-term care home secured
By Ron Giofu
Another long-term care home for Amherstburg is finally moving forward after a funding agreement was announced last week.
According to a press release issued Jan. 27, the Building Ontario Fund has entered into an agreement in principle with Arch Corporation (Arch) to finance four new and redeveloped long-term care homes in rural communities across the province.
One of the long-term care homes will be located in Amherstburg with the other three being in Lancaster, Prescott, and Tay Valley Township.
The release states: “The four long-term
care homes were assessed as a group to balance their overall risk and financial profile, enabling the smaller homes, in Lancaster and Prescott, to be feasible to develop. Through this innovative bundling approach, the Building Ontario Fund is once again demonstrating its role as a catalyst in advancing high-priority infrastructure projects that would not otherwise proceed. Consistent with their mandate to invest alongside external capital, the Building Ontario Fund is partnering with a major Canadian financial institution to finance the suite of projects.”
The initial announcement of the Arch Corporation’s plans to build the new Amherstburg home came in February
2022. Now that financing is finalized, construction is expected to begin in the first half of 2025 and be complete by late 2027. That timeline is expected for all four long-term care homes.
“As the demand for long-term care continues to grow, we’re proud to be working with the Building Ontario Fund to create much-needed beds for the province’s seniors,” said Daniel Argiros, CEO of the Arch Corporation. “The Building Ontario Fund’s partnership and investment will help ensure people across the province can get the care and support they need in modern homes located in the communities they’ve spent their lives in. We’re looking forward to the day when
we can open our doors and welcome our residents home.”
When the original announcement was made in February 2022, Argiros stated “a combination of factors” led them to choose Amherstburg as the new home for its Chateau Park Long-Term Care Home. Since the 2022 announcement, the town has sold the eastern portion of the 320 Richmond St. property, which formerly was a large section of playground for St. Bernard School. The former building is now the Amherstburg Community Hub, but the new long-term care home will sit on property next to it at the corner of Richmond St. and Fryer St.
Continued on Page 15
Amherstburg Freedom Museum, partners kick off Black History Month
By Ron Giofu
Black History Month kicked off in the region late last week with a special celebration.
February is also Black History Month but the kickoff was held Jan. 31 at the Caribbean Centre in Windsor with entertainment, highlights of upcoming events and a look back at Black history events.
The Amherstburg Freedom Museum partnered with the Essex County Black Historical Research Society (ECBHRS) and the Windsor West Indian Association (WWIA) to present last Friday night’s event.
Entertainment included singing, drumming, poetry and more with performers being Paula McPherson, Shadin Sigouin, Jada Larkin, Jordan Grosse, Empress Adara, Erik E-Tomic Johnson, Nadine Manroe-Wakerell, Rodney Jones, Mangwa Premier, and Teajai Travis.
Irene Moore Davis, president of the ECBHRS and interim assistant curator with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, said the kickoff celebration started at Mackenzie Hall in Windsor in 2014. It would eventually be moved to the Caribbean Centre.
Moore Davis thanked those in attendance for their support as well as sponsors which included the Black Scholars Institute at the University of Windsor, Arbor Memorial, Black Women of Forward Action, Women’s Enterprise Skills Training (WEST) and WE Ride and Dine.
The theme of Black History Month in 2025 is “Black Legacy and Leaders:
Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.”
Moore Davis said there are growing attempts to silence their voices “but that tells me we must be doing something right.” She said Black History Month helps celebrate resilience, strength and the ability to overcome. She encouraged people to attend events and get educated and to be inspired.
Amherstburg Freedom Museum board chair Monty Logan recalled going to the first kickoff event in 2014 and enjoyed it every year.
“Every year has gotten better and better,” he said.
The museum tells the story of how
people used the Underground Railroad to find their way to freedom. He noted this year is the 50th anniversary for the museum and they have spent five decades trying to tell their stories.
“We understand there are people still trying to rewrite history books,” said Logan. “The Amherstburg Freedom Museum makes sure those stories are told.”
Logan pointed out the museum is partnering with the River Bookshop for the third straight year for Black History Month events. One event is the return of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) to the Nazrey AME Church Feb. 14 from 7-8:30 p.m. The
concert will celebrate Black composers and tickets are $35.
The museum and bookshop also welcome author Craig Shreve, who will be holding a book signing for his new release “The African Samurai” at the museum this Saturday (Feb. 8) from 1-2:30 p.m.
WWIA president Peter Thompson said their organization is happy to be involved. He said the organization has been around for 40 years and thanked their elders for their service to the community.
More information on upcoming Black History Month Events can be found on the Amherstburg Freedom Museum’s website at www.amherstburgfreedom.org/bhm.
Empress Adara (left) and Teajai Travis (right) were two of the performers at a Black History Month kickoff last Friday night at the Caribbean Centre in Windsor.
Rodney Jones sings during last Friday night's Black History Month kickoff. More events are listed on the Amherstburg Freedom Museum's website.
Howard Ave. barn fire causes roughly $300,000 damage
By Ron Giofu
is estimating
that a weekend barn fire on Howard Ave. has caused about $300,000 damage.
Deputy Fire Chief Ron Meloche said they were called to the fire late Saturday afternoon. He said the roof was already gone by the time firefighters got there.
“It was completely involved on arrival,” said Meloche. “It is a total loss. It burned pretty fast.”
All three stations attended with tanker shuttles having to be used because the barn and home were far back from the road. The Windsor Police Service
– Amherstburg Detachment had the road closed for the duration of the fire, which was about three hours.
There were no injuries to firefighters or civilians, with Meloche saying the homeowners were getting ready to go out when they noticed the fire.
A tractor was able to be saved, but lawn equipment, a hot tub, pool table, tools and other materials were lost due to the fire.
The cause is undetermined and it has been ruled accidental. A nearby camper was also damaged but no other buildings were impacted, Meloche added.
Final 2025 budget approved by Amherstburg town council
By Ron Giofu
Amherstburg town council has officially approved the 2025 operating and capital budgets.
The approvals came during the most recent meeting of Amherstburg town council. That came after two days of budget deliberations in December where council arrived at a 5.12 per cent tax increase.
The operating budget was adopted and council approved the 2025 total own purposes tax levy of $33,746,556 including $32,281,600 general levy and $1,464,956 special capital levy. The capital budget was approved with $13,555,200 in capital projects for 2025.
Director of corporate services/treasurer Tracy Prince said at the Jan. 27 meeting the town is looking at a 5.14 per cent increase, with that depending on changes to tax policy at the county level.
Mayor Michael Prue asked why notices in tax bills say there was a 5.3 per cent increase, with Prince stating that was a draft figure that went to print the day
of deliberations. She acknowledged that number was reduced by council.
The budget passed in a 6-1 vote, with Councillor Diane Pouget being in opposition.
Pouget listed several reasons for her opposition, calling “unfair and unreasonable to increase 9.8 per cent – almost 10 per cent – in a two-year period during these tough economic times.”
According to Pouget, town council failed to listen to advice from financial experts and claimed there were “too many discrepencies in our financial statements.”
“It has been reported we have one of the highest debts per capita and our reserves are at risk, yet this council continues to deplete our reserves on wants instead of needs,” she said.
Pouget added: “Council was denied our right, indeed our obligation, to vote for or against a large amount of taxpayer money for Open Air for 14 weeks for two years. I firmly believe this action is unfair, unethical and perhaps, improper.”
Pouget believed council was denied
the right to accept or deny an outside auditing firm.
“We were advised if we objected, it could lead council to litigation,” she said.
The town is about to enter “the largest debt-load in the history of Amherstburg,” she said, citing “crumbling infrastructure,” the expansion to the water treatment plant, repairs to town buildings and a new town hall.
“Yet we continue to spend on wants instead of needs,” she said.
Residents cannot afford the increase along with paying water and wastewater bills, she added.
“Last, but certainly not least, I cannot support a budget when we took away a significant amount of grant money from ACS, the food bank, the mission and to care for maintenance of a war heroes cemetery to give to the Windsor-Essex Bike Community, most of whom who do not live or pay taxes to the Town of Amherstburg,” she said.
Councillor Linden Crain said “it seems very, very hard to believe” the town is entering its largest-ever debt-load and
wanted clarification from administration. Prince said in 2018, the total debt load was $35.677 million and at the end of 2024, it will be $23.789 million. Prince said the latter figure does not include the debt for the new fire hall and any possible new town hall expenditures.
Councillor Don McArthur said he respects Pouget’s opinion but expressed why he voted in favour of it.
“We need to invest in this town. I don’t think you can build a community on ‘no’ votes,” he said.
McArthur said voting against the budget is a vote against the mill and pave program which improves roads people drive on. He said he supports the $2-million project to upgrade a section of Concession 8 North in McGregor with Concession 6 North also on the radar.
“It’s a big investment in rural Amherstburg on our rural roads,” he said.
McArthur said he voted in favour of the budget to pay for firefighters who attend fire calls and accident scenes.
Continued on Page 5
Amherstburg firefighters were on scene of a barn fire for approximately three hours last Saturday afternoon.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Amherstburg voter asks “what is the PC government afraid of?”
What has happened to our democracy? At seventy-five years of age I am seeing the government of Ontario reducing our so called free democratic society into a dictatorship?
Are we following the steps that are being taken in the United States?
To side-step a very negative “Watch Dog Report,” ergo a snap election, which if elected, will give the Ontario PC Government an additional year
adding to five years of who knows what will happen.
See the watchdog report, by going to CBC and search Ford’s push to expand alcohol sales early to cost the province $612 million, further, the FAO also said there will also be a $215-million cost as a result of lower tax revenues as grocery, big box and convenience stores are not subject to beer, wine and spirits taxes.
Town council “rushed”
to dub Dalhousie St. “Veterans’ Way”
Council was aware at least one veteran member of the community has misgivings, concerns and documentation for why the word “veteran” was not appropriate as it dilutes sacrifices made by those brave souls that did not have the opportunity to become “veterans.”
Council rushed to make a decision with a non-time sensitive issue. Council received only one delegate from the Legion, requesting a change of name for a portion of Dalhousie St., motions, discussions to extend the length of the proposal from the Legion to Fort Malden.
Approved, signed sealed and delivered within an amazing 20 minutes. However, in council’s rush to please, they failed to take into account other factors or to include a pause for thoughtful reflection: Amherstburg does have a street naming bylaw and procedures to follow.
Social /cultural: Why would all veterans get acknowledgement, when so many other groups have not been granted the same respect, a very complex issue.
War Veterans: when Canada had over a million war veterans, there were no streets, bridges, schools named for living veterans. Very simple answer, war veterans would not allow any
acknowledgement in their words for “the lucky ones.”
On the other hand, Canada has added Veterans Week from Nov. 5-11 to recognize and honour veterans with awards for their accomplishments as veterans.
Why not have streets named to honour all veterans!
King George V addressed the people of the Empire for the First Armistice Day in 1919, he proclaimed on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month there be for a brief space of two minutes, perfect stillness, so the thoughts of everyone may be concentrated on reverent remembrance of the glorious dead. Very respectful.
Renaming a portion of the 401, Highway of Heroes out of respect for those young Canadians we lost in Afghanistan. Very Respectful.
Renaming Dalhousie St., after “All Veterans, The Lucky Ones.” Infringing on the Cenotaph, monument and empty grave honouring our glorious dead, buried or lost in far reaches of the Earth. I ask the readers is this respectful!
I do not feel council is being disrespectful with a defined purpose, but being disrespectful due to lack of gained knowledge, Lest We Forget
—WO Gary Bowerman CD (rtd) Amherstburg
Are the PC Government’s hands in so many “wealthy pockets” that they were pushed into costing Ontarians millions of dollars as the report states?
Back to the subject of democracy, by calling this snap election Mr. Ford has literally taken away the votes of many persons who had the audacity to take a vacation. Because of the length of time it would take to get their mail in ballots to them and returned by Feb.
27, he has silenced a number of eligible voters in Ontario.
Mr. Ford says he has called this election to get a mandate from the people, to respond to the United States government, then why not get a mandate from all eligible voters?
Begs the question “what is the PC Government afraid of?”
—Jacqueline Coombs Amherstburg
Respect shown appreciated by resident
To the people of my town, you have shown again what you are made of.
On Friday, January 24, 2025, when we buried my sister Carolyn the funeral procession was allowed to pass with every approaching car pulling to the curb. Proving once again what a compassionate and caring people we have in the ‘Burg.
This as you know doesn’t happen often anymore.
My sincere thank you to you all.
Memories of Yesterday...
Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection
We love a good pose in a formal portrait. In this image, Felix Meloche (left) and wife Emelie (Dufour) stand with a couple identified as “Mr. and Mrs.
The Meloche family was well-known in McGregor. Felix was a politician, farmer, proprietor of the McGregor Hotel for a time, and later the hardware and paint store. After their deaths in 1943 (Emelie) and 1948 (Felix), The Amherstburg Echo reported that the couple were survived by 42 grandchildren and 53 greatgrandchildren. Do you know who “Mr. and Mrs. Dube” are?
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please.
• We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We reserve the right to edit for libel/slander concerns
• We reserve the right to not publish letters that we view inflammatory, inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific people, groups, religions, governments or ethnic organizations. Those rants are more suited to social media.
• We will gladly print letters commending
specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.
• Please sign your letters and provide a phone number for verification or questions if we need to reach out to you.
• Anonymous letters are not printed as we cannot verify their origin.
•Letters that are printed do not necessarily reflect the views of the River Town Times or any staff therein. Send
or
Dube.”
—Janis Ball Amherstburg
NDP leader Stiles stops in Harrow to support Mills
By Fred Groves
The Ontario NDP want to re-take the riding of Essex.
“We want to change Essex from blue, back to orange,” said party leader Marit Stiles.
She made a stop at the Beerded Dog Brewing Co. in Harrow last Thursday night to endorse local candidate Rachael Mills.
The 2022 election saw NDP Ron LeClair get 13,703 votes behind winner PC Anthony Leardi, who is seeking a second term, with 24,926.
NDP Taras Natyshak held the provincial office from 2011 to 2022. The three-term Natyshak was in fullsupport of Mills on Wednesday as was former Essex MP Tracy Ramsey.
“What we are up against is no easy task,” Mills told a large and boisterous room full of supporters.
Mills, 31, grew up in LaSalle and recently moved to Harrow where she lives with her partner. She is a talent acquisition specialist and has never run for political office.
“I am not coming from a place of popularity and having myself out there,” Mills told the River Town Times earlier in the week.
What she does bring to the campaign is a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to making Essex County a better place to live. Mills lists housing, affordability and health care as some of the key issues.
“My passions and concerns have led me right to this.”
A strong advocate for the environment, Mills worked the room full of supporters Wednesday night like a seasoned veteran and had the full support of not only the local NDP but Stiles as well.
Introducing Stiles as the next Premier of Ontario, Mills said, “with her we can build a better Ontario but it’s going to take us rolling up our sleeves and fighting
for the future.”
Last Wednesday PC Premier Doug Ford was in Windsor to officially kick off the election, which now is less than a month away.
“He thought he could put this over and people weren’t going to show up, that people are going to roll over,” said Stiles. “I think he’s wrong.”
Stiles was first elected in 2018 and took over the NDP leadership from Andrea Horwath in 2023. She represents the riding of Davenport and is a former Toronto District School Board Trustee. The NDP are the official opposition now, currently holding 28 of the 124 seats in the provincial legislature.
And for Mills on her first campaign trail, she seems confident in knowing what it will take to regain the Essex seat.
“We have to knock on doors this election. Tell your neighbours and connect. This election is about building a stronger Ontario where no one is left behind.”
Steve Higgins to represent Green Party in Essex
By Fred Groves
With the provincial election just three weeks away (Feb. 27), Essex Green Party candidate Steve Higgins knows he has to hit the ground running.
“It’s going to be a lot of work. I may not be able to do a lot of door knocking. It will be a tough campaign,” says Higgins.
The 43-year-old small business owner is a life-long resident of Kingsville and takes pride in his community involvement which, so far, has included both coaching and officiating hockey.
Higgins goes up against incumbent PC candidate Anthony Leardi, who is seeking his second term, and NDP’s Rachael Mills who, like Higgins, is entering the political arena for the very first time. As of press time
the Essex Liberals had not announced their candidate.
“I believe it’s time for a change in politics. I chose the Green Party because of their ‘People Over Politics’ policy.”
Elaborating, he has been drawn to the Greens because he believes that he should not have to vote along the party lines, but instead what is best for the residents of Essex County. In the 2022 provincial election, Green candidate Nicholas Wendler received about two percent of the overall votes – 989. That was well back of Leardi with 24,926, NDP Ron LeClair’s 13,793, and Liberal Manpreet Brar, who had 4,186.
“The goal for this election is to get 5,000 votes and to gain a strong hold in Essex so by the next election we can have a Green candidate here,” says Higgins.
Continued on Page 15
Town budget officially passes in 6-1 vote
Continued from Page 3
“I’m supporting this budget because these staff aren’t here out of the goodness of their hearts. We have to pay them,” he said. “As much fun as we have around this table, they’re here because they are paid to be here and we have to pay staff. If you don’t approve the budget, staff doesn’t get paid.”
A motion to approve $16 million for
a new reservoir at the water treatment plant is part of the budget. He also noted there are investments in parks that are part of the budget and if there is a ‘no’ vote, it is also a ‘no’ vote to those projects. “This budget makes Amherstburg a better place to live, a better place to raise a family and a better place to invest and build homes and that’s why I’m supporting this budget,” said McArthur.
Essex NDP candidate Rachael Mills (left) welcomed party leader Marit Stiles (right) to Harrow last Thursday evening.
Kingsville resident Steve Higgins is the candidate for the Green Party in the Feb. 27 provincial election.
Tariffs top of mind for voters, says PC incumbent
By Ron Giofu
Anthony Leardi is campaigning to keep his job and threatened tariffs coming from the United States is the main thing he is hearing at the door.
Leardi, the Progressive Conservative candidate for the riding of Essex, was elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) in the 2022 election. The incumbent candidate said tariffs are the biggest issue he is hearing when out campaigning.
“There is absolutely one overriding issue in this campaign that is dominating,” said Leardi. “It’s the trade war between Canada and (U.S. President) Donald Trump.”
Leardi said it is his leader and his party that will do what it takes to protect Ontarians. He said incumbent Premier Doug Ford, the PC leader, is the one that will preserve the province’s interests.
Two of those measures were to pull American products from LCBO shelves and to ban American companies from provincial procurement for as long as tariffs are in place, should they go into place at some point. Retaliatory moves by the Ontario government would translate into a $1 billion loss to red states in the U.S., Leardi told the River Town Times Monday afternoon.
Getting back to the negotiation table is the way to go, he believed.
to put a focus on skilled trades.
“There are so many people benefitting from that,” he said.
The PC’s will continue to build hospitals, highways, housing infrastructure and schools, the PC incumbent added.
“Those are multi-billion projects,” said Leardi. “If Americans want a piece of the action, we’re going to have to start at the negotiation table.”
Getting it done through bargaining at the table is what Leardi said he is hearing from people at the doorstep.
“We’re going to protect Ontario. We’re going to match strength for strength. We’re going to get through this,” said Leardi. “We need a strong mandate for the Province of Ontario so that Donald Trump knows Doug Ford is going to be around longer than Donald Trump.”
“I’m glad there are more talks,” said Leardi. “No one wants a tariff war. Let’s all get back to the negotiation table.”
The proposed tariffs have been delayed for a month, per an announcement from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, with stronger security measures to be taken along the Canada-United States border. Leardi was pleased to hear there were more talks planned, and touted Ford and his planned measures to stand up for Ontario.
Leardi said his government are “not going to let anyone push us around” but noted they are willing to work with anyone. He said the Ford Government has reached across party lines and are willing to negotiate with anyone to further the interests of Ontarians. He said deals have been made in New Jersey and Ohio for the benefit of Ontario.
Beyond the tariff issue, Leardi said the Progressive Conservatives will continue
“We have to show strength.”
There was no known Liberal candidate in Essex as of press time, something not lost on Leardi.
“So far, it appears I’m not running against anyone,” he said.
As for NDP candidate Rachael Mills, “I don’t know who that person is.”
Leardi added they are taking nothing for granted.
“We keep working hard. We are going to work hard, work hard and keep working hard,” he said.
Suspect arrested and charged after break-and-enter at Amherstburg Library
The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment arrested and charged a male suspect after a break-and-enter was reported at the Amherstburg Public Library.
Police officers attended the library last Saturday morning (Feb. 1) after receiving a call around 9 a.m. about a break-in. The reported break-and-enter was believed to have occurred overnight. Police say windows were broken and several items, including multiple laptop computers, were stolen.
Through investigation, Windsor police say officers were able to identify the suspect alleged to be responsible and located him at a nearby residence. A 21-year-old
male was arrested and held for court. All stolen property was recovered, Windsor police add. The suspect was charged with utter threats to property, mischief, break and enter and possession of stolen property.
Armed robbery suspect arrested in Amherstburg
The LaSalle Police Service say officers attended a business early Sunday morning (Feb. 2) on a report of an armed robbery. The suspect was later located and arrested in Amherstburg.
LaSalle police say shortly before 1 a.m. Feb. 2, officers attended a business in the 1900 block of Front Road for a report of an armed robbery. The suspect entered the business and allegedly brandished a knife to the
ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS
employee, demanding money and merchandise, then fled the area in a U-Haul truck.
LaSalle police add the suspect was located shortly afterwards in Amherstburg by Windsor Police Service. A 28-year-old-male was arrested and charged with robbery, disguise with intent, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, uttering threats to cause bodily harm and three counts of failure to comply with a release order.
The accused was held in custody for a bail hearing to answer to the charges. The accused was also charged by Windsor Police Service for alleged offences that occurred in the City of Windsor.
•
•
Anthony Leardi, the incumbent PC candidate, says tariffs proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump is the main thing he is hearing about.
User fees for temporary patio extensions deferred by town council
By Ron Giofu
User fees for temporary patio extensions still haven’t been finalized.
Town council has voted to defer the matter pending more information. Administration had recommended a one-time licensing fee of $300 for allowing the temporary patios from March 31-Nov. 7 every year but council members looked at an additional fee from Stratford and were wondering about that. The report from manager of licensing and enforcement Bill Tetler noted Stratford had a $650 licensing fee, but also a $2.80 per square foot fee, and the latter raised interest of some council members.
Councillor Peter Courtney made the motion to defer, stating administration need a bit more time to confirm information. Courtney cited the example of Stratford, and its fees.
“I’m intrigued with that,” he said.
Courtney said Tetler didn’t have the answers he was looking for that night, particularly on the issue of the cost per square foot part of the debate.
Town council voted 4-3 to defer, with Courtney, Councillor Molly Allaire, Councillor Diane Pouget and Mayor Michael Prue voting to defer. Not wanting to defer were Councillor Linden Crain, Councillor Don McArthur and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb.
Prue cast the tie-breaking vote, stating his reason to defer being there is a difference between licenses and applications and he wants more information on that. The mayor also had questions on costs regarding using parking spaces and sought more information on that issue.
“I’m hoping that can be explained a little bit better,” said Prue.
Courtney noted the bylaw has a date of March 31 for implementation and “we have to clarify this.”
Clerk Kevin Fox said because there is a change into financials, there was an expectation it would have to be reviewed by advisory committees unless council waived that requirement.
Fox said the recommended fee was in front of the
audit and finance committee and the economic development committee, and they supported the $300 fee that was in front of council before the deferral.
“I am not going to support the motion. If you want to send it back to committees, that’s something else, but we gave them an option, they discussed the option, weighed in on it and now we’re moving against the goalposts. I’m not going to support not going to the committees on this,” said McArthur.
Gibb said if they value their committees, they need to listen to their recommendations “and have them weigh in on what’s going to be a substantial difference in costs. No, I’m sorry. I can’t support this. I’d have to have it go back to the committees,” said Gibb.
Allaire had timeline concerns, wanting to know when it would return to council if it went back to the committees. Fox said committees would likely meet within two months. Businesses could be inhibited if there were delays if it went back to committees, Allaire added.
The argument was businesses with temporary patios are getting “free real estate and not being charged for it,” she said. Allaire didn’t believe it should go back to committees and that council should make decisions on their own.
Noting he is a member of both committees, Councillor Linden Crain said it should go back to committees.
“I do believe consultations never hurts. If we’re making substantial changes or getting more information on it that could change what is being presented before us that the committee recommended but is now being deferred and possibly changed, it needs to go back,” said Crain.
Courtney said they are advisory committees and he appreciates all of them. He said there were recommendations that came from the audit and finance committee at budget time that were “shot down” and “we didn’t do anything with that.” Courtney said council makes the final decisions and “we’re the governing body.”
“We ultimately make the decisions,” said Courtney. Crain countered Courtney’s comments on audit and
finance committee meeting minutes, stating they were comments from one individual. He believed council should look at the “decision of the whole.”
Prue called it “a very small amount of money” that is being discussed. If it is delayed two or three months, on March 31 a temporary patio could be built without a fee and a fee could be put in later. He said the fee is “negligible” and didn’t feel it should be discussed at great length.
“Sometimes council has to make the tough decision and the decision is $2.80 per square foot. Perhaps,” said Prue.
McArthur said the problem could have been resolved during the meeting that night. He said “we’re kicking it down the road” and said the money it costs to talk and look into it is not worth the costs being incurred through the user fees.
“We should have discussed it and passed it tonight. It’s our job. People are trying to have their cake and eat it too,” he said.
On the motion to go back to committees, Prue broke another tie and voted to waive the requirement to back to the advisory committees for further consultation.
Ribbon cut to officially open The Point
By Ron Giofu
What was once a landmark restaurant is now a place dedicated to wellness and rejuvenation.
The Point Wellness Spa has opened at 1430 Front Road South, in the location that was formerly Ducks on the Roof restaurant. Owners Heather and Jake Clifford and Scott and Jody Goslin were joined by a large crowd of well-wishers as the ribbon was cut last Saturday afternoon.
Heather said the idea came about one year ago and they all agreed to move forward with it. A total renovation of the building commenced and now they are open for business.
“We are very excited to be part of the business community,” she told the crowd assembled. “We are excited to pamper you.”
Heather was a nurse for 30 years and she desired to eventually run her own business. Along with her partners, that vision became reality. She said it is a full service spa that does manicures, pedicures, facials, head massages, Botox, a
fitness pod, a float pod and more. Outdoor amenities are also in the works.
“We replaced everything in the building,” she said. “My husband worked all day and came here every night and worked until 11 p.m.”
They had a lot of help to get where they are at, with Heather thanking everyone for the support.
“I think the location is amazing,” she added. “Coming to Ducks on the Roof was something we did as a family. It’s a hot location.”
Heather said they enjoy the fact it’s close to town but far enough away where it is quiet and less congested.
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb cut the ribbon and praised the four owners. He said it was amazing to walk into the building and see what it has been transformed into. He said it was a great example of how Amherstburg continues to foster a vibrant and health-conscious community.
“It’s no longer Ducks on the Roof. It’s now the Point,” he said. “This place just looks amazing. We wish you all the success in the world.”
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb cut the ribbon at The Point Wellness Spa last Saturday afternoon.
Fundraising continuing for new sign at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157
By Ron Giofu
Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 is continuing to fundraise for a new LED sign.
Fundraising efforts have raised over $7,000 thus far with the Ladies Auxiliary holding a pasta dinner Sunday evening to help build on that total. The Back2Back Band performed prior to the meal with
almost 100 tickets being sold for the dinner.
There was also a raffle with multiple prizes donated by businesses within the community. A 50-50 draw was also held as part of the fundraiser.
“It’s done really well,” said Ladies Auxiliary president Penny Stein. “All of the proceeds we make are going to the Legion for the new sign.”
The total price of the sign is estimated at $40,000. The Amherstburg Legion is hoping to have the funds raised and the sign installed by this summer.
“It’s a work in progress but it’s been a month that we’ve been working on it,” said Stein.
Donations are being accepted on an ongoing basis with people able to put cash inside to contribute.
Stein added the Legion’s Ladies Auxiliary has events a few times per year with last weekend’s specifically dedicated to the sign.
Town council awards tender for sewer work on George, Seymour streets
By Ron Giofu
The tender for the much-discussed sewer replacement project on George and Seymour streets has been approved.
Town council awarded the contract to D’Amore Construction (2000) Ltd. during its most recent meeting. The cost is $3,647,824 excluding HST. In addition to Seymour and George streets, portions of Murray St. will also be included.
Work entails watermain and storm sewer improvements on Seymour St., full replacement of sidewalks, curbs and pavement in all areas impacted by sanitary sewer replacement and reconstruction of
Seymour St. from Simcoe St. to Gore St.
The issue became controversial in late 2024 when residents received letters from the town, which led to concerns such items as steps and porches would have to be removed or they would have to pay for encroachment agreements. The town would later allow those items to be kept
at no cost to the homeowners but fencing and landscaping could still be impacted.
Construction is expected to last two months. Councillor Diane Pouget wanted assurance the contractor knew of the agreement with the homeowners and was told the contractor was aware of the situation and council’s previous direction.
Volunteers who helped with last Sunday’s pasta dinner gather for a photo (left) while the Back2Back band provided the entertainment.
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Sometimes you have to hold some things in to safeguard others from sticky situations. It can be tricky keeping secrets, but this week it is for the best.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, there are a lot of people in your corner right now who are willing to pitch in when you need help. If you encounter an obstacle, just ask for assistance.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, change your schedule or your scenery, especially if you feel like you are in a rut. All it may take is one modification to bring on an entirely new perspective.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
If a person comes to you needing a friend in the next few days, resist the urge to offer advice. Simply listen and provide companionship. This is all the person needs at the moment.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Prioritize getting your finances in order, Leo. Make this one New Year’s resolution that you maintain; otherwise, you may have financial troubles in the months to come.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
A few opportunities are coming your way in regard to your career, Virgo. Sort through all of the offers and figure out what works best for your situation.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, there is a lot of momentum around you, but for some reason you cannot find your footing. Sooner than later you’ll find your path and will be moving along.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Take charge of your priorities, Scorpio. It can be easy to get swept away in other people’s drama. Make a list of all the things you want to accomplish and start working.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, people are expecting much of you this week, especially higher-ups at work. You may need to find the motivation to keep going. The end result will be worth it.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Family time is a hot commodity for you right now, Capricorn. Even after the holidays, you have a few other events on the calendar that will bring relatives together.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
It can be difficult to let things go and trust other people. However, the free time that you’ll get will enable you to tackle other items on your to-do list, Aquarius.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
If you are thinking about going back to school or learning a new skill, this is the time to do it, Pisces. Start shopping around for programs.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
JANUARY 1 - Poppy, Singer (28)
JANUARY 2 - Dax Shepard, Actor (48)
JANUARY 3 - Florence Pugh, Actress (27)
JANUARY 4 - Coco Jones, Actress (25)
JANUARY 5 - Bradley Cooper, Actor (48)
JANUARY 6 - Kate McKinnon, Comic (39)
JANUARY 7 - Nicolas Cage, Actor (59)
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to folder.
Admirals beat Walpole Island, lose to Lakeshore at home
By Fred Groves
The Amherstburg Admirals may have won against the visiting Walpole Island Wild Saturday night but it came with a hefty price.
Several of the Admirals left the game early either with injuries or game misconducts but still managed to hang on and win 5-3 at the Libro Centre. Coupled with an 8-3 loss to the Lakeshore Canadiens the following night, the Admirals now see their Provincial Junior Hockey League (Jr. C) record sit at 19-17-1-0.
“I think we lost four or five guys. We are going to have to wait until the morning but it doesn’t look pretty right now,” said Amherstburg coach Zack Gervais after the game against the Wild. Walpole Island, the most penalized team in the division, came into the contest with just four wins and clearly out of a playoff spot while the Admirals, the least penalized, are in a race with three other teams to see who will finish third.
There were nearly 100 minutes in penalties whistled in Saturday night’s game. The Wild converted two of their seven man-advantage opportunities while the Admirals went 1-for-9. The rough stuff began early when former Admirals’ defenceman Keygan Renaud and Amherstburg’s Drew Booker mixed it up in the corner.
“Stuff like that you just have to battle through it,” said Amherstburg veteran forward Allan Djordjevic of the physical
game. “You have to win the battles and hope you get the win.”
Booker got the Yellow Jacket as the team’s top player on the night as both he and defenceman Jake Gourdreault led the offence with three assists. It was a balanced scoring attack as five different Admirals found the back of the net.
Cooper Bulmer, Darby Drouillard, Ryan Clark, Brady Drouillard and rookie Cory Leach with his sixth of the year
scored for the winners who were up 1-0 after the first and 4-0 after 40 minutes. Answering for the Wild were Connor DeBot, Xavier Gelinas and Cohen Veenstra.
“Going into the playoffs we’re going to have to rely on our third and fourth lines to generate some offence,” said Djordjevic who had an assist.
Gervais had to do some juggling in the third period with a short bench which
included Wyatt Goudie leaving after a slash to the foot. Ryan Dufour did a good job moving back to play a few shifts on defence.
“At one time we only had eight forwards. It was nice to see guys step up,” said Gervais.
Commenting on the Wild scoring three unanswered goals in the third, he said, “we lost our focus, it was tough. It is what it is but we are glad we got the two points.”
Against the Canadiens last Sunday night, the defending provincial champs led 2-1 after the first and increased that to 6-2 after 40 minutes. The fast-skating Booker had a pair of goals with the help of his linemates Brett Jones and Sandison. Jones had the other tally.
A big four-point night for Canadiens veteran Trevor Larue as he led the winners with two goals and a pair of helpers.
Amherstburg had another tough test Tuesday night as they were in Essex, after this issue of the RTT went to press.
The Dresden Kings visit the Libro Centre for the final regular season home game this Saturday. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m.
SLAPSHOTS … Defenceman Jack Bulmer leads all blueliners on the team with 21 points. Great job by Admirals’ trainer Jenna Jardine for providing quick care to the players Saturday night… Booker is now on a six-point scoring streak.
Local children help build wood duck boxes at Sportsmen Club
By Ron Giofu
Local children, parents and grandparents teamed with the AMA Sportsmen’s Association help wildlife on the weekend.
As part of the club’s youth programming, there were wood duck boxes assembled Saturday morning with volunteers from the association joining local families in putting them together.
AMA Sportsmen’s Association vice president Ken Tytgat said it is an initiative the club has been doing for several years.
“This year, we decided to do duck boxes because it’s been a few years since we’ve done them,” said Tytgat.
Tytgat said they rotate boxes for different species of birds that nest in the area. He said they try to keep things fresh and entertaining for the youth that come out.
Work began earlier last week in preparation for the wood duck box building day.
“We started Tuesday night. We cut it all up,” said Tytgat.
Tytgat added volunteers returned to the club last Friday to further cut the wood into kits the children and their families could assemble.
There were over 20 children that came out Saturday morning but there were enough kits for 42 wood duck boxes.
That meant families could build more than one if they chose to.
“If kids want to take them home and put them up in their back yard, they can,” he said.
While the wood duck boxes work well in marshes and near waterways, Tytgat said he lives in Malden Centre and wood duck boxes are still effective there as the ducks still use it to nest.
Continued on Page 15
Amherstburg forward Rory Sandison (12, white jersey) keeps his eyes on the puck as he attacks the Walpole Island net during Saturday night’s game. The Admirals beat the last place Wild 5-3.
Ian Furlonger and son Hudson were among those who turned out Saturday morning to build wood duck boxes at the AMA Sportsmen Association. About 42 wood duck boxes were constructed.
RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU
Local Business Directory
Community Calendar
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12
ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALIST CLUB MEETING; Meeting takes place at Ojibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchett Road, starting at 7 p.m. Theme this month is “Wildlife and Birds of Peru.” Jeremy Hatt and Cameron Chevalier invite you to join them in their passion for wildlife and birds when they share their knowledge and photos of a recent trip to Peru. The Essex County Field Naturalists Club meets the second Wednesday of every month, except for November, at Ojibway Nature Centre. All are welcome. Free to public.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14
VALENTINE’S DAY PASTA DINNER; St Joseph Church (River Canard) Valentines all-you-can-eat pasta dinner runs from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Pasta, salad, roll, dessert & coffee. Wine and pop for purchase, huge gift basket raffle, Adults $20, Children 6-10 $10, children under 5 and adults over 80 free. Tickets sold at the door or call Tom Dupuis at 519-978-9425.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21
CHILI DINNER FUNDRAISER; Enjoy a bowl (or two) of Tim’s Famous Chili at the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. The meal runs between 5-8 p.m. All proceeds go towards mission operations. In addition to the chili (hot, mild, vegetarian), there will be rolls, coleslaw, coffee/tea and dessert. Tickets $15 for adults, $8 for children under 12. For tickets, call Violet or Kim at 519-736-9140 or stop by the mission at 298 Victoria St. S.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22
AMHERSTBURG’S COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR; Presented by The House Youth Centre. Opening remarks at 4:45 p.m., 2K and 5K walks start at 5 p.m. Chili served after the walk by the Amherstburg Firefighters Association. Starts and ends at the Amherstburg Community Hub, located at 320 Richmond St. For more information or to sign up, visit www.cnoy. org/amherstburg. To register to volunteer, visit www.cnoy.org/ volunteer.
SUNDAY, MARCH 2
PASTA/SALAD FUNDRAISER; Being held at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Benefits the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. and Father Donato’s good work with victimized children and young adults in D.R. Congo in Africa. Pasta (sauce with or without meat), salad, bun/ butter, coffee or tea. Desserts available. Cost $20 adults, kids $8 (12 and under). Can reserve a table for family and friends. Doors open 4:30 p.m., self-serve meal starts at 5:30 p.m. Silent auction, 50/50 raffle, pie sale. General public most
welcome. For tickets, call Larry & Jean Allen 519-817-3030, Rose Beneteau 519-713-8943, Patty Drury 519-987-4755 or Bev Bondy 519-736-4837.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE; Free entertainment series being presented at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (129 Simcoe St., at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. Music and entertainment TBA. Runs 7-9 p.m. Donations accepted, refreshments for sale.
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
SONGFEST #3; Being held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 11 Concession 3 North (at Alma St.) in Amherstburg. Runs from 2-4 p.m. If you love to sing, we will be singing favorite hymns and gospel songs very informally with coffee/tea and light refreshments. Come for the singing and fellowship. Help us “make a joyful noise unto the Lord.”
ONGOING
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners are required Monday-Friday from 2-4 p.m. to mop floors and to clean bathrooms, countertops, tables, carts, etc. Dishwashers are needed Monday-Friday 1-3 p.m. to wash dishes, pots and pans. Maintenance people are needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Commitment is one day or more per week, on a regular basis. If interested or for more info, send e-mail to aburgmission@yahoo. com.
FREE COMMUNITY MEALS; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. Everyone welcome. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is also showing “The Chosen” every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., after the meal. Free to attend, everyone welcome. Church is located at 266 King St. in Amherstburg (entrance off of Gore St.).
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP; Lighthouse Church is offering “Griefshare,” a 13-week support group meeting every Tuesday. Runs through April 29 from 1-2:30 p.m. at Lighthouse Church. For more information or to register, please call 519-962-9525. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).
ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the
month at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call Susanne at 519990-2775.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD EVENTS; Charity bingo every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Friday to order call 519-734-8575. Dinner starts at 4 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road.
COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. still has bingos every Thursday night and fish fries (with chicken as well) on Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties start back up in September.
SERVICE TIME CHANGE; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., has changed the times of their Sunday service. There is now one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.
MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.
AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall on Pickering across from Walmart.
GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong and bridge and line dancing. Club also crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three special luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www. goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.
FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” and help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts
GOD LOVES YOU AND HAS PROVIDED FOR YOUR SALVATION THRU HIS SON JESUS CHRIST
Will you accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour & Lord today?
The Bible says: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead thou shalt be saved Romans 10:9
Pray this prayer from your heart today: Dear Jesus, I believe you died for my sins and rose again the third day And I accept you now as my Lord and Saviour By believing this in my heart, I know that I am now saved and am a child of God Thank you for hearing me, and your love for me I know you will keep me by your spirit thru your word the Holy Bible
Thank you, Amen
Welcome to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ at:
MOUNT BEULAH CHURCH
246 King St, Amherstburg Sunday Service - 11am Bible Study Tuesday 6pm Pastor Maynard Hurst 519-736-4110
of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@ bryerswood.com.
MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.
MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with free lunch between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www. aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.
ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors welcome. We are on Facebook!
ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@ bryerswood.com.
BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit
CLASSIFIEDS
FOR RENT
CASA BLANCA & BELLA
VISTA APTS. 365-369
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“ARE YOU SAVED?”
That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110
EVENT SPACE FOR RENT
HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-736-6096 or Doris @ 519-734-8154
WANTED TO BUY
BUYING ALL JEWELRY
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SALE
Formal Dining Room Set: glass top table 44"x 80" with 8 cream-colored chairs - $500. 519- 5621187
FOR RENT
2 BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR RENT in Amherstburg, includes utilities $1,875. Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex on Queen Street in quiet neighbourhood. One block from the Detroit River within a short walking distance to town. Carpet and ceramic tile throughout. Modern open-concept kitchen with island for a working or eating, with fridge and stove included. Private laundry-room with washer and dryer included. Windows in every room with mini blinds included, providing lots of natural daylight. Central forcedair conditioning and highefficiency gas furnace. No smoking. No dogs. Private access to your own patio within shared rear-yard. $1,875 monthly, includes: central forced-air heating and cooling, natural gas, electricity, water, and sewer. Minimum 1-year lease. Apply with income verification. First and last month’s rent required. By appointment only, call 519736-4473 between 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a detailed message.
Please Recycle this Paper
RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS
WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation and construction experience, I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly, and with pride. Locally owned & operated. www.renovisions.ca Steve 519-300-0961
PEST
AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.
DOG GROOMING LISA’S DOG WASH; Baths & Haircuts in a stressfree environment. One on one service. All breeds welcome! $10 OFF first groom! Call or TXT Lisa 519-965-0781 Open 9am9pm
Passed away peacefully on January 28, 2025 at the age of 90 with her beloved husband Ted of 71 years by her side. Cherished mother of the late Ted (2014) (Janice), Ron (Denise) and Dorthy (David) Karpala. Loving and caring Babcia to Ryan and Hannah.
Special thanks to the staff at AgeCare Royal Oak in Kingsville (Copper Beech Unit) for their wonderful care shown towards Adeline.
Arrangements entrusted with James H. Sutton Funeral Home (401 Sandwich St S, Amherstburg, 519-7362134). Private family services have been completed. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at jhsuttonfuneral.ca
New long-term care home could be under construction later this year, will offer 160 beds
Continued from Page 1
Arch Corporation purchased the land next to the hub from the Town of Amherstburg for nearly $900,000.
The new long-term care home will be larger than the one in Windsor that it is replacing and will accommodate 160 in total. That is an increase of 101 beds as compared to the 59 beds at its current location.
The announcement from the Building Ontario Fund notes the four long-term care homes will collectively include 576 beds, addressing the growing demand in these communities.
“Securing financing for projects in rural communities presents unique challenges, often due to their smaller scale,” said Michael Fedchyshyn, CEO, Building Ontario Fund. “Taking an innovative approach, as we have done by bundling four Arch properties together, we can bring institutional capital to the table and help advance vital infrastructure projects, like the long-term care homes in Amherstburg, Lancaster, Prescott, and Tay Valley.”
The Building Ontario Fund agreement in principle with Arch Corporation will result in 276 new and 300 redeveloped beds.
Arch Corporation currently operates the only longterm care home in Lancaster. The new facility will be home to 128 seniors, an increase of 68 beds over the existing one.
In Prescott, the new home being built there will accommodate 128 residents, up by 68 beds from the existing facility. The investment in a long-term care home in Tay Valley Township will see the total number of beds rise from 121 to 160 in that community.
The Building Ontario Fund’s commitment includes a senior secured loan of $133.6 million to fund construction and operational costs across the four homes, subject to customary financial terms and conditions.
The Building Ontario Fund facilitates the development of critical infrastructure across the province by providing financing and advisory services to public sector pension plans, other trusted institutional
Local children help with wood duck boxes
Continued from Page 11
The club will replace wood duck boxes they have in their 3-D hunting course they have along Lowes Side Road near their building itself. The current ones are decaying and need to be swapped out with new ones.
Building the wood duck boxes gives the youth confidence and helps them learn new skills, he added.
“We enjoy working with the kids. It gives them an
idea on how to work with tools,” he said.
Tytgat estimated there were about 15 volunteers from the club on hand to assist. They served hot dogs, pop and chips to the families that came out.
The AMA Sportsmen’s Association is located at 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg.
For more information, visit their website at www. amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.
Kingsville resident nominated as Green Party nominee
Continued from Page 5
When asked by the River Town Times what he felt to be the biggest issues for Essex County this election, he quickly said housing, health care and education.
Higgins said that as far as housing is concerned it needs to be more density over sprawl and everyone should have better access to a family physician.
As far as education, he says that is the province’s future.
“It’s time we started putting money back in (to education) because we are investing in our future.”
The last election saw the Greens win two seats including one by Party Leader Mike Schreiner in the riding of Guelph. Higgins said he was looking forward to an all candidates meeting with the party hopefuls Sunday night.
And as far as what he can best bring to the table, Higgins says being a hockey official and a politician may have a few similarities.
“You have to handle criticism and make quick decisions.”
If he does not get
elected, Higgins wants to run in the next Kingsville municipal election where, ironically, current Essex MP Chris Lewis got his start in politics.
LUNCH & LEARN
investors, and Indigenous communities. It focuses on projects within five priority sectors - affordable housing, long-term care, energy, transportation, and municipal and community infrastructure. It is an arms-length, board-governed Crown agency enabled by the Building Ontario Fund Act Arch is a Canadian-based real estate asset manager that invests on behalf of pension plans, institutional investors, and family offices. Through their subsidiary, Riverdale Living, they operate 11 long-term care homes across Ontario.
Obituaries
Atkinson, Nancy Kay nee. Stuebing
May 17, 1945 – January 31, 2025
Passed away after a brief illness on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Hospice Leamington at 79 years of age, in the arms of her beloved husband of 60 years William Arthur Atkinson while surrounded by their children.
Loving mother to Sheri Shewell (Curt), Christina Frye (Sean), William M. Atkinson (Tracy), and Stephen Atkinson.
Cherished grandmother to Matt Di Paolo (Amy), Jayme Di Paolo (Lindsey & Carter), Stephanie (2007), Savanna & Sydney Shewell, Adam Frye (Kristin), Jenna Bossaer (Kyle), Chelsey Mikulic-Frye (Daniel), Cassidy, Carsyn & Kylee Atkinson, and Mason &Wyatt Atkinson. Great grand mother to Emilia & Hazel.
Daughter of the late Lorne & Catherine Stuebing. Sister of the late Chuck, The late Jim, and survived by her sister in law Joyce Stuebing. Daughter in law of the late Ralph & Dona Mae Atkinson. Sister in law of the late Rick, survived by her in laws Deanna Lowe, and Kevin & Meg Atkinson.
Nancy was a graduate of St. Mary’s Academy and spent many years as a bookkeeper to many established businesses in Essex County where she never left at the end of the day until all accounts balanced to the penny.
Music, dancing, crafting, and volunteering were her most cherished hobbies. Her crafts decorate many of her friend’s homes. She taught many classes of Line Dancing and was proficient in tap dancing.
Nancy was the recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award from the Tri-Community minor hockey Association for her devotion as a travel team convenor and President of minor hockey.
She volunteered playing the piano at the Richmond Nursing Home, at Seasons Amherstburg during the Wednesday evening supper hour and in the memory ward at Seasons where she would play “Take me out to the ball game” and everyone in the memory ward would sing along.
She was a devoted member of Christ Anglican Church and spent many years on the Board and as the Envelope Secretary.
A private family funeral and interment at Rose Hill Cemetery will be held on Thursday, February 6th, 2025 at Families First Funeral Home – Amherstburg. A celebration of life will be held at the AMA Sportsmen’s Club, 468 Lowes Side Road, Amherstburg on Thursday February 6th , 2025 from 4pm - 9pm, where all are welcome to share their stories about their friendships with Nancy.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice Leamington would be appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to Families First Funeral Home (Amherstburg), 519 969 5841.
February
Stay up to date with what’s happening in Amherstburg!
Day Municipal Offices & Libro Centre Closed Reminder Monday’s Garbage & Recycle will be picked up on Saturday, February 15th
The walking track will be closed today 3:00-4:30PM The walking track will be closed today 3:00-4:30PM
Enjoy a weekend of FUN Activities at the Libro amherstburg.ca/ beactive
Bench & Tree Commemorations are now being accepted amherstburg.ca/ commemorative or call 519-736-5712
8:30PM Last Day to Call White Goods Pickup 519-736-3664
March Break Camp 2025
Drop-off begins at 8:00 am
Programming hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Pick-up ends at 5:00 pm Junior/Senior: Ages 6 - 11 Snack Shack
Ages 4 - 5
or $148/week
Healthy snacks and treats available for purchase (Tuesday/Thursday, Cash Only)
Bring your skates and helmets for ice skating today!!
Prepare for a day full of sportthemed fun! Wear your favourite jersey/sports attire today
Wear fun socks to camp today!
Registration Opens February 10
Call to register or visit the Libro Centre (519) 736 - 5712 recreation@amherstburg ca
Come to camp dressed in your favourite colour!
Wear PJ’s to camp! Movies and snacks on us! Optional: Domino’s Pizza Lunch $11
