River Town Times - January 25, 2023

ERCA honours award winners, receives $100K donation

By Ron Giofu

A group of organizations and individuals were honoured with Conservation Awards from the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) last week.

One of the winners, who lives and has made a major contribution in River Canard, also contributed even more during the course of the meeting.

The awards, according to ERCA, are for the recipients’ “contributions to creating a sustainable future of the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region.” The Collavino Family was honoured with an Environmental Achievement Award for their donation of 150 acres of wetland habitat in River Canard for the creation of the Collavino Conservation Area.

Loris Collavino told the crowd at ERCA’s annual general meeting (AGM) last Thursday night that his family moved to River Canard in 1983.

“Having a home on the banks of River Canard was a whole new life for me,” he said.

A “bug in my ear” about the lands was placed there by now-ERCA CAO Tim Byrne and Collavino noted he and his son Michael worked to make the project a reality. It was unveiled last fall, though work still has to be done to make it accessible to the public.

“I think this might be a different wetland and conservation area than others in Essex County,” said Collavino.

To help expedite the work into making it available for the public, Collavino announced a donation of $100,000 to the Essex Region Conservation Foundation. The donation will help support the ongoing management of the wetland and assist with the creation of laneways, parking and trails to allow the public to come onto the property.

A total of seven organizations and individuals were honoured as part of the award ceremony, held at the Essex County Civic Centre. The awards have been presented by ERCA annually since 1992, with this being the first in-person ceremony since 2020.

Quinlan Farms captured the Conservation Farm Award for their commitment to sustainable farming through Best Management Practices that protect soil health.

The Harrow Early Immigrant Research Society (HEIRS) captured the John R. Park Homestead Award for 50 years of preserving and encouraging research into local history, artifacts and buildings in the Harrow area and the greater

(Above photo) Loris Collavino (second from right), daughter Lauren (far left) and son Michael accept the award from ERCA vice chair Sue Desjarlais (centre) and chair Jim Morrison (right).

The family then made a $100,000 donation to ERCA.

Windsor/Essex County region.

Mike St. Pierre, a teacher with Cardinal Carter Secondary School in Leamington, won the Education Award for 30 years of inspiring student and school-wide stewardship, environmental consciousness, outdoor education and experiential learning across the WindsorEssex Catholic School Board. St. Pierre said it was “magic” to take students out and see them learn about nature.

Pelee Island Butterfly Sanctuary and Teaching Garden

also won an Education Award for engaging hundreds of learners of all ages about the importance of pollinator and habitat conservation and protecting endangered butterfly species.

The Friends of Ojibway Prairie (FOOP) were presented a Volunteer Award for more than 30 years of undertaking protection, restoration, and education for the Ojibway Prairie Complex, and advocating for its inclusion as a National Urban Park.

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) presented its annual Conservation Awards last Thursday night, one of which was an Environmental Achievement Award to the Collavino family.

Prue not happy with advisor’s role, Dilkens says city is fulfilling contract

By Ron Giofu

The town’s new mayor is unhappy that the Windsor Police Services Board (WPSB) has confirmed he won’t have the same position as the former mayor did.

CANDY, POETRY, DRAG QUEENS, AND OTHER SWEET

The board has chosen to make Mayor Michael Prue an advisor to the WPSB, which the city points out follows the contract signed by the town and City of Windsor in 2018. While former Mayor Aldo DiCarlo was a voting member, that was only for a one-term period.

hanging its hat on.”

THINGS.

The town had submitted Prue’s name for a municipal appointee position, but that went to Sophia Chisholm, who had been on the WPSB previously.

Prue said he wants to be fair to Dilkens, with the Windsor mayor saying smaller police services boards like the WPSB may get a chance to expand from five to seven members. If that is the case, Prue’s name could be considered for a voting position once again, but Prue noted that bill has not received Royal Assent provincially. That issue was raised during a recent meeting with Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, Prue added.

Hosted by Dan Macdonald of AM 800

Amherstburg is able to review the contract with Windsor every five years and Prue believes this could give “ammunition for those who want to leave” the contract and look at other policing options.

“We’re living up to our contractual agreement,” said Dilkens.

Prue is welcome to attend board meetings, including in-camera sessions, observe and provide input, Dilkens noted. Prue is also free to contact the police chief should he have any concerns.

“If he has questions, we’ll endeavor to get answers to his questions,” said Dilkens.

Dilkens also noted the new Police Services Act and the possibility of future expansion of the WPSB from five to seven members.

“Is there a future opportunity? Sure,” he said.

“The application went in a day or so after the election. Administration was on top of that,” said Prue.

For Prue, he wants more input though will fulfill his obligations.

“Amherstburg has to be at the table, even if we don’t have a vote,” said Prue.

Featuring Poet Christopher Menard, And Drag Queens: Dulce, Koko, and Liquorice

“If Windsor wants to keep us, this isn’t going to help,” he said.

CANDY, POETRY, DRAG QUEENS, AND OTHER SWEET THINGS.

The Windsor mayor said he’s heard positive feedback from Amherstburg about the level of policing. He said the town “bought a contract for service” and “everything we are supposed to provide is spelled out in the contract for service.” There are intervals for renegotiation, Dilkens added.

Prue told the River Town Times last Friday that he had spoken with Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, the WPSB chair, roughly ten days previous to that and was told by Dilkens the city had received 49 applications.

Jan 28th | 6 to 11PM

Should Amherstburg opt out of the policing contract with the city this year, Prue said factors would include cost, representation, long-term costs and other options such as re-establishing Amherstburg police, going with LaSalle, getting OPP policing or working with Windsor on a new deal.

“The people will tell us what they want,” said Prue.

67 Richmond St Upper Level Full bar service

CANDY, POETRY, DRAG QUEENS, AND OTHER SWEET THINGS.

CANDY, POETRY, DRAG QUEENS, AND OTHER SWEET THINGS.

Hosted by Dan Macdonald of AM 800

“I don’t think it’s right. The Americans fought a war over this – no taxation without representation,” said Prue. “I don’t know what role an advisor will have, but I’ll find out.”

Free admission, but limited occupancy Not wheelchair accessible

Featuring Poet Christopher Menard, And Drag Queens: Dulce, Koko, and Liquorice

Hosted by Dan Macdonald of AM 800

Prue said he will meet with staff in Windsor Thursday and submit a head shot and his biography. He questioned the decision to only have Amherstburg as a voting member for one term and said, “that’s what Windsor is

Jan 28th | 6 to 11PM

Hosted by Dan Macdonald of AM 800

Dilkens pointed out the WPSB is comprised of five members, including himself and another city councillor (Jo-Anne Gignac), two provincial appointees and a community member. He noted the contract with Amherstburg stipulated that it would be the mayor or a designate for the first term only. While the Amherstburg mayor may be considered in this and future terms, it is not a guaranteed position, but Dilkens noted in that case the Amherstburg mayor would become an advisor.

“We’re living up to our agreement and somehow we’re the bad guys,” he said of the WPSB issue. “We were kind of shocked reading stuff like ‘revolutions were fought over this.’ What we’re saying is we negotiated an agreement and we’re living up to the signed agreement perfectly.”

There would be a cost to re-establish a police service in Amherstburg, Dilkens indicated, while a partnership with LaSalle would carry similar legislation regarding police service board membership. Going with OPP would mean “no voice at all,” he added.

Dilkens believes having Windsor police also policing Amherstburg is “positive for us as well.”

Town to assist Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club with taxation situation

67 Richmond St Upper Level Full bar service

Featuring Poet Christopher Menard, And Drag Queens: Dulce, Koko, and Liquorice

By Ron Giofu

Jan 28th | 6 to 11PM

Featuring Poet Christopher Menard, And Drag Queens: Dulce, Koko, and Liquorice

to make upgrades.

a proud True Festival sponsor

Jan 28th | 6 to 11PM

67 Richmond St Upper Level Full bar service Free admission, but limited occupancy Not wheelchair accessible

The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club Optimist Club (BYCOC) had representation before Amherstburg town council looking for tax relief and they came away with a degree of success.

67 Richmond St Upper Level Full bar service Free admission, but limited occupancy Not wheelchair accessible

“Our mission is to bring out the best in children and youth,” said Robertson, listing a number of programs being offered at the campground. She added they had a highly successful Earth Day event there in 2022.

The nearly $10,000 in taxes was paid “under protest” and Robertson stated “that is a huge total for a nonprofit, volunteer-led organization.”

BYCOC president Kathi Poupard and vice president Cathy Robertson said they are registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regarding the 25-acre campground on Texas Road. They had to pay nearly $10,000 in taxes, at a residential level, in 2022 and came to council seeking relief.

“We are a not-for-profit organization,” said Robertson. “We rely on 100 per cent volunteers. We rely on fundraising. Sponsors are a huge deal for us as well as donations. We are constantly writing for grants.”

Councillor Don McArthur told Poupard and Robertson “what you are doing with the site is incredible” and said they are helping to enrich the lives of youth in Amherstburg and elsewhere.

a proud True Festival sponsor

Free admission, but limited occupancy Not wheelchair accessible 5x7

a proud True Festival sponsor

Print - 5x7 a proud True Festival sponsor

Print - 5x7

Town council did agree to issue a grant to help with the municipal portion and will support efforts of the BYCOC to get relief at County of Essex and school board levels. The municipal portion is about $5,700.

Robertson said the club is doing its best to not only repair the camp, but to pay back a social investor and

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Robertson said they have spoken with an assessor from MPAC but were told the way the legislation is written, there is little they can do to appeal the charges. They currently can’t appeal to the county as that is more for properties taxed at a commercial or industrial level as opposed to residential.

“We recognize Amherstburg is a fabulous place to live, work, play and visit,” said Robertson. “Bryerswood wants to be an integral part of that.”

“You are being treated grossly unfairly,” he said, noting other groups like Girl Guides and Boy Scouts do not get charged taxes on their campgrounds.

Councillor Linden Crain noted there were no taxes collected between 1992-2021 and said the BYCOC is “in a weird situation.”

“Boy Scouts and Girl Guides were always exempt,” he said.

Crain said he understood there is legislation but still had trouble grasping the campground being taxed.

“As a councillor, I can’t wrap my head around by Boy Scouts and Girl Guides are tax exempt while what your organization does is exactly same,” he said.

Councillor Diane Pouget said the work Poupard, Robertson and their team at Bryerswood is very important and noted the “escape clause” where an in-kind contribution could help them with tax relief. She also wondered if the town could help with an MPAC appeal, though CAO Valerie Critchley pointed out the property owner has to formally file the appeal.

Councillor Peter Courtney called it “absurd” the BYCOC has to pay that amount of taxes, believing there was someone they or the town could talk to in order for them to find tax relief.

Town council also will send a letter to Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, with Mayor Michael Prue adding the Private Bills Committee, a group he once chaired, could also assist.

“It would permit MPP Leardi or any other person to request an exemption from the Private Bills Committee,” said Prue.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said the town hasn’t collected taxes for over 20 years on the property and called it “inequitable” for the current owners to have to start paying. He backed the idea of helping with a grant on a one-year basis with the hope that over the next year, steps could be found to create a more fair playing field.

The BYCOC is holding a chicken or rib dinner funddraiser this Saturdayat River Canard K of C Hall, 8965 Malden Road. Tickets are $27 per meal, call 519-9886420 to purchase. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner being served starting at 7 p.m.

County council passes budget, library pay equity issues dealt with

By Ron Giofu

After getting the information they were looking for, Essex County council has passed its 2023 budget.

The county budget increase sits at 3.81 per cent this year, the same level it sat at after the Dec. 7 budget deliberations. Director of financial services/county treasurer Sandra Zwiers reminded county council that all departmental budgets were approved Dec. 7 with the exception of the Essex County Library estimates. The library board has since met.

Zwiers said there was the issue of retroactive payment of pay equity settlements for the impacted library staff. The recommendation called for the issue to be dealt with through various reserve funds.

“In late 2022, a multi-year pay equity and job evaluation review was completed. Retroactive payments, back to 2013, have been roughly estimated to cost approximately $1.6 million. Since 2013, ECL has accrued $650,000 for this settlement. Similarly, the County accrued funds in anticipation of its own pay equity and job evaluation review. Upon settlement in 2019, the County had approximately $505,000 remaining in the fund,” Zwiers said in her report County council approved the allocation of the county’s excess funds to the library board, Zwiers pointed out. “After the application of the payroll accruals, a shortfall of $445,000 remains unfunded. At its board meeting on January 11, 2023, approval was received to transfer $310,000 from ECL’s Rate

Stabilization Reserve to cover a portion of this shortfall. So as not to reduce ECL’s Rate Stabilization Reserve to an unhealthy level, administration recommends transferring the balance of the cost of retro payments (approximately $135,000) from the County’s Rate Stabilization Reserve. The effect of the combination of the use of existing payroll accruals and Rate Stabilization Reserve transfers from both ECL and the County will nullify any impact on the tax base for these retroactive payments.”

Another budget impact is the Ontario

the full 15 per cent smoothing mechanism. As a result, the 2023 Budget overstates OCIF grant funding by $312,388,” Zwiers stated in her report. “In 2023, the County will receive $1,770,202 ($2,082,590 received in 2022).” Zwiers added: “Based on an administrative review and discussion, the shortfall in 2023 is recommended to be covered by a transfer from the Capital Reserve to preserve the portion of the capital program supported by OCIF grant funds. It is likely that the County’s proportionate share of OCIF funds will

support as “that’s what it’s there for,” adding he was glad it was pointed out by Zwiers that it is a one-time dip into that reserve for that purpose. He said it needs to be reconciled in the 2024 budget.

Regarding OCIF, McNamara said there will be a good debate in 2024 but “at this stage, I think that’s it is the commitment that’s been made and has been part of our asset management program and part of our capital works program going forward in 2023.”

McNamara added “this is a difficult year for all of us.” He said he doesn’t want any further increases and called 3.81 per cent “very defensible.”

“We’ve been very prudent over the years with our investments and, in particular, building out our rate stabilization fund and reserve funds and that is exactly what these reserves are there for,” he said, “to deal with the anomalies and surprises down the road and this is one of them.”

Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF), with Zwiers pointing out 2023 OCIF allocation letters were distributed to municipalities Dec. 9.

“Starting in 2023, the allocation formula is being calculated using forward-looking Current Replacement Values (CRVs) and CRV estimates to approximate requirements to maintain municipal core infrastructure assets, instead of closing cost balance values from the Financial Information Return. A smoothing mechanism was implemented to generally limit year-over-year changes in funding within +/- 15 percent of the 2022 allocations. The County’s 2023 OCIF allocation was reduced by

SIU investigating local death

continue to decrease by the maximum 15 per cent smoothing mechanism. The impact of this funding loss along with the overall realities of the infrastructure gap will be further discussed with County Council in February when the Asset Management Plan report is presented. Transitioning from provincial transfer payments to the tax base will be required to provide the financial support needed to maintain the current level of the repair and maintenance program.”

Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara said pay equity has to be paid as it’s the “law of the land.” He said taking money from the rate stabilization fund had his

Warden Hilda MacDonald said she is concerned about using reserves to fund operations, noting a “caution flag” has been waived and it is not a good move overall. She said she supported this year “with reservations.”

“It’s not a written policy but we try not to do that because that’s a very good way to end up in trouble,” said MacDonald. “It will be very interesting to see, library board, where we end up next year and where that money is going to come from. If those are wages, and I’m guessing that they are, that is going to continue and it’s going to increase every time. It’ll have to be paid by the piper.”

By Ron Giofu

The province’s Special Investigations Unit is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an 80-yearold man last Tuesday afternoon.

According to the SIU, preliminary information suggests that shortly before 10 a.m. Jan. 17, Windsor Police Service officers were dispatched to an apartment on Dalhousie St. in Amherstburg for a domestic call. The man would not answer the door. Officers obtained a warrant and entered the apartment where the man was located with serious injuries. The man was transported to hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

Three investigators and two forensic investigators have been assigned to the case. The post-mortem was scheduled for Jan. 18.

The SIU is urging anyone who may

have information, including video or photos, to contact the lead investigator at 1-800-787-8529 or at: https://siu. on.ca/en/appeals.php.

“Understanding what occurred in the apartment is part of the SIU’s investigation, and not something we’re in a position to share at this time,” SIU spokesperson Monica Hudon told the River Town Times.

Hudon added: “The SIU’s mandate was invoked because police had attended the residence. The SIU’s investigation will focus on what involvement police had, or did not have, with the man.”

The SIU states it was created in 1990 with a mission to nurture public confidence in policing by ensuring that the conduct of police officers, in cases falling under the SIU jurisdiction, is subject to rigorous and independent investigations.

WIndsor police were outside of a Dalhousie St. apartment for hours following a domestic call last Tuesday. The province’s Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is now investigating.

Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 recognizes essay and literacy contest winners

Parent thankful for community’s support of her daughter’s fundraiser

I feel compelled to share the wonderful details of a recent (November 13, 2022) fundraiser in honour of my daughter, Serina Carey. Serina has Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that greatly affected her childhood. However, despite the fact that this statement is true, ‘her’ perception and outlook is different. She has accepted her path with dreams, goals and a smile.

Upon entering the McGregor Columbian Club, the room was colourful, donning bright tablecloths and a sea of balloons. My initial thought was who are all the people that are supposed to fill all of the seats?!

I knew for one thing; this was going to be bigger than I could have ever imagined.

I was correct, it was an enormous event filled with more than just food

and raffles. There was wonderful entertainment by the lovely Bethany D’Alimonte, “The River Rock Ramblers” and “Bad Moustache.”

There were incredible donations that kept the crowd bursting with fun; with the ticket sellers scurrying about all night.

This incredible night was the idea of my dear friend, Kathy Talbot, who most of you know as their sales agent with The Dan Gemus Real Estate Team. Without her incredible dedication and love, this would not have happened. She spent hours upon hours sharing Serina’s story through her passion with people. There were also Tina Durocher and Linda Wells who worked just as tirelessly supporting Kathy’s cause.

The incredible kindness and compassion of all who gave still amazes me. There are such amazing people

among us!

We would like to thank everyone who made this event so successful!

To the Talbot, Blake, Crawford and Gemus families, thank you so very much!

Also, a huge thank you to The Dan Gemus Real Estate Team Ltd. The Richmond Popcorn Co., Linden Crain, Don McArthur, Wendy Turner, Towne Shoppe, Happier Camper,

Oh, and the answer to my question as to who was going to fill all the chairs - “incredibly

Whining by mayor not warranted

It was sad to see our mayor whining about not having been given a voting position on the Windsor Police Services Board. It showed an obvious lack of knowledge of the Police Services Act and a complete lack of knowledge of the Town’s contract with Windsor.

As Amherstburg residents, we expect more from Mayor Prue.

We were not listened to back when we did not want to go ahead with this issue and we will not be listened to in the future. Should either Amherstburg or Windsor cancel the policing contract then quite probably our only option will be the OPP as the half a million in savings for each of five years has never been put aside.

—Bob Rozankovic Amherstburg

•

• 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. Send letters to mail@rivertowntimes.com

drop off at the office: 80 Richmond St., Unit 9 or mail to: River Town Times, 80 Richmond St., Amherstburg ON N9V 1E9

Ron

Justin Valduis, Joe Bondy, The Sign of Experience Legal Team, Bryce May, Rivertown Dance Academy, McGregor Columbian Hall & Volunteers.

kind people,” 250 of them to be exact.

—Rhonda Carey Amherstburg

Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 recognized the winners of its Remembrance Day poster and literacy contest. The winners will move on to the district competition. From left: Br. 157 president Laurie Cavanaugh, first place Essay - Senior Level North Star High School student Dominic Johnson, first place Poster (colour) - Junior Level Malden Central student Shiloh Dixon, first place Poster (black & white) - Junior Level Malden Central student Nolan McGuire, second place Poster (black & white) - Junior Level Malden Central student Zoey Deschamps, third place Poster (black & white) - Junior Level Malden Central student Olivia Petro and Youth Education Officer Kathy Hanes. Winners who were absent include second place Poster (colour) - Junior Level Malden Central student Ryder Roehler, third place Poster (colour) - Junior Level Malden Central student Travis McGuire. Submitted photo

Short-term rental regulation open house gathers mix of opinions

By Ron Giofu

The Town of Amherstburg held an open house last week to gather public input on the issue of short-term rentals and regulations surrounding it.

The open house was held in the lobby of the Libro Centre with residents offering a range of opinions on short-term rentals and what they would like to see done about them.

Some were in favour of bringing in more rental properties while others were vehemently opposed to them and didn’t want such properties to be around them.

Carole Deschaine and Corinne Raymond both supported having short-term rentals.

“We both live in Amherstburg,” explained Deschaine. “I am a property owner and I have a second property in Amherstburg.” Deschaine indicated she wants to know what opportunities she has and came to the open house to see “what is going on,” provide her thoughts on what she wants to do and see where the town wants to go with the issue.

Raymond said she sold her home in Toronto and moved to Amherstburg, noting she has invested $30,000$40,000 in her property.

“This is a big investment for us,” said Raymond.

With no hotel currently in Amherstburg, the only places guests can stay are bed and breakfasts or shortterm rentals. She took out her phone and showed listings for short-term rentals on the town’s tourism website.

“The only places to stay are short-term rentals,” she said.

Raymond acknowledged there are issues in some locations with parties and disruptions, but “all of that can be monitored.” In addition to short-term rentals being rated, guests can also be rated online.

“You rate them and they rate you,” she said. “It’s up to the owner of the property to monitor these problems. Everyone should not be tarred with the same brush.”

Raymond added she would have liked to have seen a different format for the open house, and rather would participate in a public meeting setting where people can hear different opinions and exchange dialogue.

Paul McAllister said more should be done to encourage short-term rentals and not finding additional ways to regulate them. He said he owns a property in Amherstburg, and is one of over-80 such accommodations in the region.

“To me, we should be trying to increase that number,” he said. “Why are we talking about regulations? We should be incentivizing.”

Larry Kirk and his wife Mary Anne Adam had a different viewpoint, noting they are opposed to such short-term rental units. Kirk said they don’t want to see any more of them, stating “it’s party time” in many of the units near their Edgewater Beach home. He said there have been issues with noise and drinking at the short-term rentals near their home.

“We’re not too far from them,” said Kirk. “We have had our issues. They party, drink and sing until 3 a.m.”

Adam said there are six short-term rentals near their home and they have had to call the police to deal with some of the issues they have had. Issues they have had have included noise, trespassing and late night hot tub parties.

“The list goes on and on,” said Adam. “We can’t spend another summer like this.”

Adam added the issues have continued into winter.

“It’s been non-stop,” she said. “It’s not seasonal. It’s not just weekends. It’s horrible.”

ERCA’s Conservation Awards presented during

from Page 1

ENWIN Utilities Inc won an Environmental Achievement Award for what ERCA called its “numerous sustainability priorities,” including the conversion of one of its fleet vehicles to an electric vehicle, the introduction of the Green Button program to support energy savings, and incentivizing customers to switch to e-billing to reduce the operational carbon footprint while supporting tree planting.

Cathy Robertson believed more should be done to encourage dialogue, and was encouraged by an open house like last Wednesday’s event to gather input from people who live in Amherstburg.

“I believe Amherstburg is a great place to live, work and play but also visit,” said Robertson. “Let’s make processes where people want to keep coming.”

Robertson said there are not a lot of accommodations in Amherstburg so open houses like last week may be another step to create opportunities.

Peggy Thompson said she was not in favour of having short-term rentals, noting there have been media reports of issues being experienced in other municipalities such as Goderich and London. Those municipalities are looking into ways of investigating what to do with absentee landlords and how to regulate such rental units.

The Town of Essex is launching a hotline for reporting complaints due to behaviour of short-term rental occupants.

Thompson said Amherstburg has to learn from other municipalities.

“Let’s learn from them and say no,” she said.

Thompson wants town council to direct administration to ask residents the direct question of do they want short-term rentals in town. A survey is currently posted at www.talktheburg.ca but Thompson wanted a more “yes or no” type option available.

Bill Walker said he was also not in favour of such accommodations, but had other reasons. He said he didn’t think it was a good idea for the area as young people are having a hard enough time to break into the housing market.

“You are putting in another problem in front of them with speculators coming in and buying the homes and renting them out,” said Walker.

Walker said he is not against companies like AirBnB but added town staff and police have enough on their plates without investigating issues caused by tenants of short-term rental properties.

“The whole neighbourhood has to live with the problems,” said Walker. “They can’t just pick up and go. They live here.”

last week’s annual general meeting

celebrate so many organizations and individuals who have made an incredible impact on the environment,” said Jim Morrison, who was acclaimed as chair midway through the meeting. “Following the challenges faced over the past few years, it is a pleasure to honour and recognize those who are making a difference to our local environment.”

“It’s very inspiring to have the opportunity to

Corinne Raymond and Carole Deschaine chat with Councillor Linden Crain during an open house on short-term rentals and possible regulations. The open house was last Wednesday.

Ashley Gyori, a regulations analyst with ERCA, won the Dennis Chase Staff Award for “her dedication to protecting the community from natural hazards in a manner that is conscientious, hardworking, thoughtful and extraordinarily kind to permit applicants, her colleagues and the broader community.”

North Star High School opens its doors for Grade 8 open house

By Ron Giofu

Grade 8 students and their parents looking for a school to go to next fall got a chance to look at North Star High School last week.

North Star held its Grade 8 open house last Wednesday night and got a chance to take a look at the programs offered at the new public high school. Students and their parents and guardians assembled in the school’s gymnasium to hear welcoming remarks, a performance from the school band, get instructions from the guidance department and watch a video presented by the school’s communication technology department.

Students came from not only the feeder schools –Anderdon Public School, Amherstburg Public School and Malden Central Public School - but also other schools in the area.

Principal Melissa DeBruyne noted it was an event a long time in the making, noting the process to actually construct the new school.

“I feel I’ve been waiting for this night for five years,” said DeBruyne. “It’s been a long haul but a good one.”

While there were challenges when North Star High School first opened last September, she believes the students and staff have successfully overcome them. DeBruyne said “challenges make us stronger” and the students and staff have shown that strength.

“We have a great, diverse program here,” said DeBruyne.

The technical department is one of the best around, she added, believing it rivals any school in Ontario in terms of what is offered.

Technical departments include culinary, manufacturing, automotive, design and communications technology.

There is also a cosmetology department as well as the academic programming.

North Star also offers MAPS and STEPS programming, much of which was offered at the now former Western Secondary School.

“One of the things we are proud of here is we offer all pathways here,” said DeBruyne.

There was also a chance for prospective students to ask about sports teams and clubs offered at North Star High School with representation from organizations

like The House Youth Centre also in attendance.

Nathan Bratt, student parliament prime minister at North Star, told families “we are happy to have you here” and encouraged prospective students to reach out and get involved in clubs and groups such as student parliament.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to get involved,” said Bratt.

Boblo Boats move held to four sold-out screenings

By Ron Giofu

The screenings of “Boblo Boats – A Detroit Fairy Tale” were popular last weekend.

The four screenings of the film, written and directed by Aaron Schillinger of Baby Volcano Films, saw soldout crowds attend in the River Bookshop’s second floor event space known as “The Hole in the Wall.” Schillinger, who currently lives in Ferndale, Michigan, attended the Friday night screening and held a Q&A with participants.

Bookshop co-owner Richard Peddie introduced the 79-minute film and outlined the history of the island, with the initial recognized history being known as of 1718.

“The Indigenous peoples were there likely long before that,” said Peddie.

From the War of 1812, the Upper Canada Rebellion,

John “Jack” Gibb

Passed away peacefully on Jan 13, 2023 at the age of 79.

He leaves behind his wife Sandy of 56 years, his children, Tammy, Tracey and Amy, 4 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, and his sister Lynda Ward. Predeceased by his parents Clarence and Nora Gibb and brother Ronnie.

Jack was loved and respected by all who knew him. He always extended his heart and his hand to anyone who needed it. His humour, laughs and wisecracks will be missed the most.

Life is not Forever Love is.

Cremation has taken place & a private family service has been held.

the popular amusement park and now a residential development, Peddie noted the background of the island and the fact heritage buildings still exist on Boblo. It is now being marketed under its original name Bois Blanc.

Schillinger pointed out he originally grew up in Virginia and worked in New York where he made films for non-profit organizations. He was approached about doing one on the Boblo boats and became hooked with the story while filming the S.S. Columbia when it was docked in Toledo, Ohio.

“I’m old enough to go to Boblo Island (amusement park) but unfortunately never had the opportunity,” he said.

The film is largely about the Columbia and the Ste. Clair and is narrated by Martha Reeves. He said hearing all of the stories got him hooked on Boblo, to the point that he actually moved from New York to

Michigan in 2020.

“It’s kind of crazy that an amusement park that closed in 1993 can change your life,” said Schillinger.

The story about the Ste. Clair continues, with the film documenting how it burned in a 2018 fire, as it continues to be rebuilt. More information is at www. bobloboatdetroit.com, Schillinger pointed out. The Columbia is docked in Buffalo as it never quite made it to its proposed new home on the Hudson River in New York as there were questions over how to get it there through salt water as it would have to travel down the U.S. eastern seaboard through the Atlantic Ocean.

“They haven’t found the money in New York City they thought they would find,” Schillinger added of the new owners.

More information on the Columbia is at www.sscolumbiaproject.org.

The story of Sarah Elizabeth Ray was documented in the film, after she was asked to leave a Boblo boat in the 1940’s due to her being African-American. Her civil rights story is something Schillinger said is his latest project.

Cindy Prince, vice president of development with Amico, said the island is being reinvented and being redeveloped into a community with 240 homes. They noted original plans called for 800 homes but were scaled back, telling the audience last Friday evening they have worked to maintain natural environment features in the island.

Peddie pointed out there will be more opportunities later this year to see the film in Amherstburg. He said they are working with the Marsh Historical Collection with the latter also celebrating Boblo by inviting author Patrick Livingston to discuss his book “Summer Dreams: The Story of Boblo Island” June 10. There is also an outdoor screening of “Boblo Boats –A Detroit Fairy Tale” planned for later that night in the parking lot behind the bookshop, Evelyn’s Candy House, White Woods Home and Dan Gemus’ building at 61 Richmond St.

Schillinger said an edited version of the film will also start being aired on local PBS stations starting May 1.

(Above) Isabella Sanford gives Jordan Talbot a manicure in North Star High School’s cosmetology room. (Below) David Rufo works in the school’s manufacturing department. (Right) Culinary students Brandon Martel and William Triolet prepare some pasta for the public.

Director Aaron Schillinger was at the River Bookshop for a Q&A following Friday’s screening of “Boblo Boats: A Detroit Fairy Tale.”

ERCA acclaims new chair, acquires rail lands for trail system expansion

By Ron Giofu

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) acclaimed a new chair and vice chair and announced the acquisition of land for a trail system expansion.

The announcements came during last Thursday night’s ERCA annual general meeting (AGM). The new trail system will be on former railway lands as ERCA stated 47km of railway lands that was part of the former Canada Southern Railway (CASO) section was “successfully protected for public use.” That came to fruition in late December “following years of negotiations” and a partnership struck between ERCA, the County of Essex, the Town of Essex, Town of Tecumseh and Municipality of Lakeshore. There was also funding from Environment and Climate Change Canada.

The former CASO Rail Line ceased operations approximately 15 years ago, ERCA stated, and dignitaries from across the region joined MP Irek Kusmierczyk at ERCA’s annual general meeting to announce the acquisition.

The CASO corridor dissects all major watercourses which outlet to Lake St. Clair, noted Danielle Breault Stuebing, director of communication and outreach services with ERCA. This corridor was described as having “a significant regional watershed management value related to potential mitigation of natural hazards for flooding and drainage issues.”

Once funding has been acquired to develop this property into a trail system, it will connect Chatham-Kent trails to Leamington’s Greenway, the Chrysler Greenway, the Herb Gray Parkway trails and the Cypher Systems Group Greenway,

the latter running from Amherstburg to Essex. Once developed, the new 47km trail will complete a multi-use trail loop through the region. ERCA states this system will support the County Wide Active Transportation System (CWATS) initiative of the County of Essex.

The railway ties, steel rails, and other equipment were removed from the property about seven years ago, and the property has since naturalized. In its current state, ERCA states it is a mix of former rail ballast, meadow, shrub thickets, wetlands, and woodland/forest. It provides a unique habitat that is preferred by certain endangered species such as the Eastern Foxsnake. Federal and Provincial recovery strategies have noted abandoned rail corridors as important areas to protect, the conservation authority added. In addition to protecting Species at Risk, this corridor provides for longterm protection of the only habitat linkage between existing fragmented forests and wetlands. In total, there are 21 separate natural areas that are connected through this acquisition.

“ERCA, for decades, has been fighting the good fight to protect our lands and our waterways,” noted Kusmierczyk.

“ERCA has been a great champion and shown great leadership.”

“We finally got it!” exclaimed Warden Hilda MacDonald, noting it will be a multi-use trail that will connect Essex County to Chatham-Kent.

“I think this is an awesome moment,” she said. “This investment will enhance the quality of life in our region for generations to come.”

Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara said his town was “thrilled” with the news.

“The conservation of the CASO line is exciting news for Windsor-Essex. Being able to connect the Tecumseh community to Essex, Lakeshore and Chatham-Kent’s existing trail systems will be great for our residents to stay active, not to mention the long list of environmental benefits,” said McNamara.

Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy said the new trails will be at “a prime location in Essex County” and is “a huge win for our region.”

Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey said the new trails will “be a phenomenal addition to Lakeshore’s active transportation assets.”

“It’s an investment in mobility and the future of our communities; in greenspace and natural habitats; and in the health and wellness of our residents. This investment will benefit our communities well into the future, and I’d like to thank all the partners who made this opportunity possible,” said Bailey.

ERCA’s AGM also meant a new chair and vice chair as the terms of both Tania Jobin and Kieran McKenzie expired respectively. Jobin left the chair position but stays on as a board member from Tecumseh while McKenzie, a Windsor city councillor, does similarly.

“There have been significant and meaningful accomplishments,” said Jobin, who thanked fellow board members and staff.

Jobin said she was proud to represent ERCA at community events, and was happy to be part of upgrades at John R. Park Homestead, improvements to the Hawk Tower at Holiday Beach and enhancements to trails across the region. She also paid tribute to the late John Jacobs, a former board member and Leamington councillor. She said she sat next to Jacobs when she joined the ERCA board and he “was quite a mentor to me.” Windsor city councillor Jim Morrison was acclaimed as the new ERCA chair.

“I am particularly honoured to serve as chair in ERCA’s 50th year,” said Morrison. While there are many accomplishments, there are challenges for ERCA as well.

“There is work to be done in 2023,” he said.

LaSalle Councillor Sue Desjarlais was acclaimed as ERCA vice chair.

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Warren Mickle Park

ERCA acquired 47 kilometres of former CASO railway lands for an addition to its trail network.

From left: Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk, Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara, outgoing ERCA chair Tania Jobin, Warden Hilda MacDonald, Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy and outgoing ERCA vice chair Kieran McKenzie.

dramatically reducing wait times for about 5000 patients a year. Also, Essex County will receive $202,083 from the Dedicated Offload Nurses Program to hire nurses and additional health care workers who are dedicated to offloading ambulance patients in emergency departments. This support will reduce ambulance offload times, allowing paramedics to respond to other emergency calls.

AMA Sportsmen Club hosts annual turkey shoot

Approximately 100 shooters aim for paper targets

By Fred Groves

Safety was a top priority for competitors Wednesday night as the AMA Sportsmen Club hosted its annual Turkey Shoot.

And even though the event has not been held for a couple of years due to COVID-19, the attendance was overwhelming.

“It is something to do as a family,” said air rifle director Jim Fox.

The indoor event saw those as young as two-years-old and up to 15, taking aim at a target and utilizing an air rifle shooting at a paper target. It was an excellent way for young people to develop hand-eye co-ordination and to learn about gun safety.

“They (youngest ones) can’t hold it very well but the parents can help them,” added Fox.

Each shooter wore protective eyeglasses and had a coach beside them, instructing how to use the air rifle and explaining the rules of the shoot.

“The big thing is safety. We have a coach for each child. If you get a child handling a gun at a young age, they respect it and know that it’s not a toy,” said Fox.

Children are never by themselves on the indoor range and coaches make sure that rules and regulations are strictly followed.

Each week the Sportsmen’s Club hosts the air rifle shoots and

Wednesday was the finale in which prizes were awarded for children and adults with the best scores.

“You don’t have to be a member of the club to do this,” said Fox.

Each target had a turkey drawn on it and numbers from 1 to 9. Each competitor was allowed five shots and the air rifles were equipped with scopes to see the target, which was about 20 yards away, more clearly.

Fox anticipated as many as 100 shooters took part last Wednesday night.

The House has goal of $50,000 for this year’s “Coldest Night of the Year”

By Ron Giofu

The House Youth Centre is turning to the community for support as its biggest fundraiser of the year is fast approaching.

Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is coming up Feb. 25 with 2023 being the third year The House is taking part. They raised $58,000 last year, far surpassing their goal of $30,000, so The House is upping its goal to $50,000 this year.

“We want to be consistently in that range,” said Amy Bailey, board member and fund development chairperson.

The walk starts and ends at The House, which is located within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St., and winds its way through downtown streets before heading back to The House.

“We currently have 21 teams and 59 walkers,” Bailey said last Friday afternoon.

The Amherstburg Firefighters Association will be making chili for the walkers that Saturday evening with Festival Tent and Dynamic Sound also assisting.

“This is our second year out of three that we can do it in-person, which is cool,” said Bailey.

The House has been reaching out to sponsors and teams to try and help them reach their goal and are welcoming more teams, walkers and donors. They are “still at the beginning stages of our goal,” Bailey added, and are welcoming more team captains, walkers and volunteers. Those who wish to donate can support teams or individual walkers, she added.

Memories of Yesterday...

Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection 80 Richmond Street Amherstburg 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org

Hearing tests, hearing aids, wax removal

A view of snow-covered Dalhousie Street from the second floor of the Echo Building, circa 1977. Visible businesses include the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Bank of Montreal, Parkview Hair Styles, and J & R Sports. The stone wall in the foreground was installed after the Post Office was razed in 1968 and torn down during development of the King’s Navy Yard Park in 1980.

Coach Ron Goulin (right) helps shooter Easton Tremblay during the Turkey Shoot. It was presented by the AMA Sportsmen’s Association last Wednesday night. RTT Photo by Fred Groves

Air Rifle Director Jim Fox of the Sportsmen Club with a paper target.

RTT Photo by Fred Groves

Amy Bailey (left), fund development chair at The House Youth Centre and program director Morghan Shearon are among those working to plan the Feb. 25 “Coldest Night of the Year” fundraiser.

Admirals drop 5-1 decision to visiting Lakeshore

By Ron Giofu

The Lakeshore Canadiens came to Amherstburg Sunday night and left with two points with the coaches of the hometown team hoping for a better effort.

The Admirals lost 5-1 to the Canadiens at the Libro Centre. Spencer Higginbottom got Lakeshore on the board first 1:49 into the game but a shorthanded, unassisted breakaway goal by Amherstburg’s Mitchell Demelo tied the game at the 10:43 mark. Tyler Hamlin restored the Canadiens’ lead with 2:25 left in the first period.

Marco Sladoje had a second period goal at the 8:48 mark and one of Lakeshore’s two third period goals to go up 4-1 at the 3:20 point of the final period. Bryce Scarlett rounded out the scoring at the 13:01 mark of the final period.

Lakeshore outshot Amherstburg 34-16 on the night.

“We weren’t prepared. We didn’t approach them as a top franchise,” said Admirals interim co-coach Mark Turner. “They are winners over there. They know

how to win.”

Lakeshore is the defending Schmalz Cup champions as the best Jr. C team in Ontario.

“From the coaches to the players, we have to be better prepared,” said Turner.

Turner said he was pleased the previous Sunday with the job they did against a strong Essex club, a 4-2 win by the 73’s, but it was not as good of a performance this past Sunday against the Canadiens. He added they will have to

practice hard this week and be ready to compete this coming Sunday.

“It’s not the same team you and I saw against Essex,” Turner told the RTT after the game.

Getting 16 shots in a game “won’t cut it,” Turner added.

There is progress with the young Admirals team, he stated, and they will work hard to be ready for this Sunday night’s home game against the Mooretown Flags.

“We’ve got to get ready to compete every night,” he said.

Aspects of their game they will work on include improving at their systems, one-on-one battles and special teams.

“It’s an all-around package,” said Turner. “I have a lot of confidence in the guys in our dressing room. We’ll bounce back. It starts in practice.”

The Admirals are now 10-19-0-2 on the season, good for 22 points and sixth place in the PJHL Stobbs Division. Lakeshore improved to 24-6-1-0 and 49 points and they are second in the division behind the 73’s.

Wolves show improvement against L’Essor despite same final score

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves girls hockey team had a rematch with the L’Essor Aigles last Thursday and the score ended up exactly the same.

However, the coaches were happier this time around despite the same 6-0 loss.

The most recent defeat saw the Wolves hold the undefeated L’Essor team scoreless through the first period, but the Aigles broke through in the second with a pair before adding four more goals in the third period.

“After the first period, it was 0-0,” said North Star head coach Dan Pettypiece. “We played a box defensive system again and it was working.”

The hope was to frustrate L’Essor, said Pettypiece, as they wanted to bottle up the first place team as long as they could. It ended up with North Star getting frustrated as they couldn’t bury their own scoring chances.

“We had opportunities and chances but couldn’t capitalize on it,” said Pettypiece. “That frustrated the girls on our bench because they were getting the opportunities we wanted but were not cashing in.”

Pettypiece said they wanted to work on their box

defense, noting they will likely have to employ it more when teams currently playing at the WECSSAA Tier 1 level drop down to the “AA” level come playoff time. North Star plays at the Tier 2 level and will also be a “AA” team.

“(L’Essor) is the best team in the league right now but there will be good teams dropping down,” he said.

Pettypiece said they played better this time around against L’Essor, despite the final score, and the energy

level was better this time around.

“As coaches, you can’t be disappointed,” said Pettypiece. “Who wants to lose 6-0? You see a 6-0 and you think you got your butts handed to you but this one was a totally different game.”

Centre Skylar Dion believed they did a better job than the first time.

“I thought we did a good job as a team,” said Dion. “We tried our best but couldn’t get a goal.”

Dion added they believed they have gained confidence as they season has gone on.

“We can really trust each other on the ice and off the ice,” said Dion.

Winger Danica Barron added they are better than they were at the start of the year.

“I’m pretty confident,” said Barron. “I feel we can rely on each other. Even if we don’t win another game, we’re playing really well as a team.”

The Wolves are now off due to the exam break but resume next month with their final two regular season games. They travel to Windsor to play Lajeunesse Feb. 6 at 3 p.m. before finishing the regular season Feb. 7 at the Vollmer Complex in LaSalle against Sandwich at 3 p.m.

North Star boys hockey team picks up third win of the season

By RTT Staff

The North Star Wolves had five different goal scorers in their most recent win in the 2022-23 WECSSAA boys hockey season.

North Star travelled to the WFCU Centre in Windsor last Thursday afternoon for a game with the Brennan Cardinals and won 5-1.

Davin Paquette scored for North Star in the first period with Wyatt Jackson making it a 2-0 lead early in the second period. After Brennan’s Paul Roberts made it a 2-1 game, the Wolves scored two more goals in the second period to lead 4-1 heading for the third period.

Second period goals for North Star came from Mateo Rivas and Brett Jones.

Cam Roussell added a goal for the

Wolves late in the third period to round out the scoring.

With the win, North Star improved to 3-1-1 on the WECSSAA boys hockey season. They are tied for fifth place with Cardinal Carter with seven points in the “AA” Cullen Conference.

North Star now breaks for exams with their next game being Feb. 2 against Cardinal Carter at the Libro Centre

starting at 3 p.m. That is a make-up game for one that was supposed to have been played Jan. 12, but was postponed due to a fog day in Essex County. That will be the final home game of the 2022-23 regular season with future games being Feb. 7 at the WFCU Centre versus Riverside, a Feb. 8 game against Belle River at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore and a Feb. 14 game in Essex.

Amherstburg’s Mitchell Demelo (8, white jersey) takes a shot on Lakeshore goalie (and former Admiral) Nicholas Bolton Sunday night. Lakeshore won the game 5-1.

North Star’s Mikalah Wilcox tries a wraparound against L’Essor goalie Cassandra Mercer during L’Essor’s 6-0 win last Thursday.

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Community Calendar

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28

CHICKEN OR RIB DINNER - Presented by Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club at River Canard K of C Hall, 8965 Malden Road. Tickets $27 per meal, call 519-988-6420 to purchase. Doors open 6:00 p.m., dinner 7:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8

ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS CLUB MEETS every second Wednesday of the month, except for November, at Ojibway Nature Center.  Next meeting is Feb. 8 at 7:30 a.m. at Ojibway Center, 5200 Matchette Rd. Guest speaker is Laura Foy and will talk about  “habitat at home.” Laura Foy is well known for her gardening abilities to foster native plants, birds and insects. Meeting is free to attend and public is welcome. The Essex County Naturalists also provide opportunities to observe nature alongside members keen to impart their knowledge at what we call ‘Popups.’ The next pop-up is at Point Pelee National Park We will meet at the Tip parking lot Feb. 11 8.30 a.m.-12 noon.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25

ART AUCTION - Run by local volunteers with proceeds going to park improvements in Amherstburg. Runs from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Cash only, no ATM on site. Held at AMA Sportsmen’s Association, 468 Lowes Side Road. Silent auction and sale, other items also available. For information, e-mail Kurt Reffle at trukref@ gmail.com.

ONGOING

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES -

The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Starts February 8 and will run every Wednesday from 2:006:00 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-8008640.

EMERGENCY DONATIONS NEEDED - During the pre-Christmas cold snap, water pipes in the main lodge at Bryerswood Youth Camp froze and burst. Urgent donations are requested to help pay for repairs. Donate at www.bryerswood.com/donate.

FREE COMMUNITY MEAL - Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to join them Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free meal. Everyone welcome. Come meet others in the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. Bring a friend! Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St., (entrance off Gore St.).

GOLDEN AGE CLUB - Fort Malden Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s only friendship club, provides fun activities Monday to Friday at 1 p.m. at the Libro Centre. Monday and Friday we play Pepper, Tuesday is Euchre, Wednesday is bridge, Thursday is cribbage. We also provide line dancing Thursday mornings. However, bingo and line dancing are closed

for July and August. Hope to see you there. www. goldenagecentre.ca.

MISSION HOURS - The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., is open from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch served between 12:00-1:00 p.m. Mission’s food bank will be open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m.11:45 a.m. and 1:00-3:00 p.m. For info, call 519-7369140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome.

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

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

BINGOS - K of C Hall in River Canard starting bingos Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. Dine-in BBQ first Friday of the month.

BOTTLE DONATIONS - The AMA Sportsmen Association continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, located at 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519736-5706.

MISSION NEEDS DONATIONS - The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., needs donations, including bleach, Lysol wipes, face masks, canned tuna, canned peas, canned cut green beans, canned peas & carrots, ketchup, egg noodles, sugar, powdered juice, canned fruit, honey, macaroni & cheese, Sidekicks, ranch dressing, kidney beans, peanut butter, jam, cookies and baggies. Monetary donations welcome. For info or to donate, visit www. aburgmission.ca or call 519-736-9140.

FOUNDERS CLUB - Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” to help them purchase the camp on Texas Road. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiples of squares are available for sponsorship. Tax receipts provided. For information, visit www.bryerswoodyouthcamp.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

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

IF YOU WANT TO DRINK, that’s your business. If you want to stop, we can Help. Call alcoholics anonymous: 519-999-1234.

North Star senior girls beat Holy Names, suffer loss at Villanova

By Ron Giofu and Evon Jr. Brockett

The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball enter the WECSSAA “AA” playoffs after winning the Tier 1 level in the regular season, but they do so after a rare loss.

The Wolves travelled to LaSalle last Thursday afternoon to play the St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats and lost their first league game in approximately three years. The Wildcats won two sets to one, as they won the first set 25-22 and the third set 26-24 with North Star winning the second set 25-14.

The third and deciding set was a backand-forth affair, with Villanova taking the lead on several occasions by one or two points and the Wolves fighting back to tie. North Star couldn’t overtake the Wildcats in the end, though, and Villanova clinched the win.

Both teams finished 8-1 on the regular season but North Star finished first due to their 24-3 won/loss record in sets. Villanova was 20-7 in sets won and lost.

North Star assistant coach Mary Ewer said that getting points from 0-20 come as a result of physical skills. Points 20-and-over are all mental.

“It’s a mental thing,” she said.

Ewer believed losing to the Wildcats might not be the worst thing in the world, as it will bring the Wolves down to Earth to a degree.

“This isn’t a bad thing,” said Ewer. “We were brought down a bit and we know we’re not invincible.”

Head coach Jeff Miller said they had their difficulties against Villanova.

“We struggled all night,” said Miller. “Nothing was easy for us but we still almost won.”

Miller said every time the Wolves had a chance to take control of the match, they did something wrong from a fundamental point-of-view. He added they needed a test and got it against

Villanova.

Miller believed it will be good for them in the long run and showed where their mental aspect needs to be.

The Wolves hosted Holy Names last Tuesday evening and that is where they lost their first set of the season, though they won two sets to one. The final result was 25-16, 25-21 and 23-25.

Ewer noted they fought back in the third set, even though they trailed 16-8 at one point, and made a game of it.

“They faced adversity and fought back,” Ewer said after Tuesday’s match.

“I liked the way we played in the first set,” Miller said. “In the second set, we were a little bit sloppy.”

With the match won, Miller said they made adjustments in the third set and that affected them somewhat as Holy Names kept their same lineup in the game.

“It took us a while to get comfortable,” he said. “We had a chance to win and close it out but didn’t do it.”

They had played Sandwich at home Monday, in a make-up game from Jan. 12 when a fog day caused it to be postponed. North Star won 25-10, 25-13 and 25-14.

Their first match after the Christmas break was Jan. 10 versus Kingsville. The Wolves won the first set 25-17 followed by a second set win 25-3 and won the third set 25-19. The Wolves have 12 girls on their team including one injured for the season.

When asked what North Star’s expectations are, Miller answered: “Our expectation is to qualify for the OFSAA tournament as one of the top seeds.”

Miller added: “We are just working on getting better every day at practice. We are focusing on establishing our hard working and tough culture, so we are ready to tackle any obstacle that we’re going to face in the playoffs and/or at OFSAA.”

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, make a concerted effort to focus your attention on something that interests you. This may require that you find something new to stoke your passion.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 It’s a week for love and you have all of the resources available to take advantage and explore your feelings, Taurus. Work things out in your head before taking action.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, currently you are playing a much smaller role at work than you would like. It is not that you aren’t capable, but it’s a matter of paying your dues before taking the next step.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, don’t box yourself in with a strict to-do list and schedule. You need a little more wiggle room to explore your creativity and what makes you happy.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Your open and outgoing nature may lead many people to think they know all about you, Leo. Instead, you can be quite a mysterious person. Show others only what you want.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Believing someone is flawless can set you up for disappointment when you realize no one can live up to that standard, Virgo. Be realistic when assessing partners or other people.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Being available to other people is admirable, Libra. Make sure this is not at the expense of your own well-being. You may need to dial back and prioritize your own needs.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Living in your comfort zone may lead to missed opportunities, Scorpio. You may need to let your risk-taking side show this week. Enjoy the ride.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You might start to notice you are losing some traction in your love life, Sagittarius. Figure out a way to talk and spend more time together in the days ahead.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 You may believe you can think your way out of a situation this week, Capricorn. But sometimes logic just doesn’t cut it. You may have to use your heart to get to the root.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Take a second look at your talents and your abilities, Aquarius. You may have been selling yourself short for some time. But you can accomplish anything with some effort.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t make assumptions about how others see you, Pisces. You have a lot to offer. It’s time to recognize all your strengths.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JANUARY 22 - Steve Perry, Singer (74)

JANUARY 23 - Mariska Hargitay, Actress (59)

JANUARY 24 - Matthew Lillard, Actor (53)

JANUARY 25 - Alicia Keys, Singer (42)

JANUARY 26 - José Mourinho, Coach (60)

JANUARY 27 - Frank Miller, Author (66)

JANUARY 28 - Tom Hopper, Actor (38)

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to the blood collection.

North Star’s Afften Essenpreis (8, white jersey) and Mya Foreman (5, white jersey) go up for a block during last Thursday’s match at Villanova. The Wildcats defeated North Star in three sets.

TRUE Festival makes its return this Saturday night

By RTT Staff

The TRUE Festival is happening on the streets of Amherstburg this Saturday night.

The event will be from 6-10 p.m. in the downtown core, with street closures following the same footprint as Open Air Weekends, said manager of tourism and culture Anne Rota. She said the roads will be closed from noon-midnight to accommodate set-up and take-down.

“Our first TRUE Festival was in 2020,” said Rota. “We wanted to bring back something in the streets of Amherstburg in the winter. We have a lot of spring and summer events and into the fall. We felt it would be a great economic stimulus for everyone in the wintertime, especially in the downtown core.”

Rota said Amherstburg is a “diverse, inclusive community” where everyone is welcome.

“It’s free. What better way to spend Saturday evening than dancing to ‘70’s music in the street?” said Rota. “We’re anticipating a good crowd. This is all free, thanks to the sponsorships.”

Sponsors include WE Pride Fest and Evelyn’s Candy House, with Rota adding the tourism department is awaiting word on a provincial sponsor. Events include DJ Josh Karmin, drag queens, a fire show, glow dancers, street curling, glow cornhole, smores, hot chocolate and

photo opportunities.

“Everyone is welcome,” she said. “We encourage everyone to dress warmly but there are going to be all sorts of activities.”

Rota believes “Amherstburg is a real leader for awesome events” and the town offers “a diverse portfolio of events and things to do.” She said volunteers are always welcome and people can get involved by calling 519-730-1309.

“It’s a great kickoff to 2023,” said Rota, of the TRUE Festival.

Richard Peddie, co-owner of Evelyn’s Candy House, said they believe the festival will be good for the town.

“We’re going to have a busy night Saturday as part of the TRUE Festival,” he predicted.

Peddie added when he and wife Colleen heard about it, they wanted to get involved.

“We want to make Amherstburg an even better place,” said Peddie. “We want to make sure it’s accepting and right for everyone.”

Peddie added they have tried to champion such causes as Black Lives Matter, climate change, safe streets, heritage and now the LGBTQ+ community and they want to “team with the town to support the TRUE Festival.”

More information on the festival can be found at www.visitamherstburg. ca/events/true.

Amherstburg’s “Coldest Night of the Year” fundraiser planned for Feb. 25

“If people want to volunteer, we encourage them to reach out ASAP,” said Bailey.

The local CNOY is also seeking an event sponsor. Anyone wishing to sponsor the overall event for $3,000 can also reach out to The House.

Proceeds from the CNOY stay in-house.

“It goes towards the program itself,” said Bailey. “It goes towards members and volunteers.”

The House Youth Centre is 98 per cent volunteer run, she added, and they need fundraising and grants to cover their expenses. They also try to keep weekend retreats affordable for those who go on them, including leaders and those in the program.

“We’ve been around over 50 years,” said Bailey. “I think something needs to be said for that.”

Youth need a place to connect, make friends and deal with issues they have, Bailey continued, and they want to

expand outreach into high schools and elementary schools so youth know they have a place to go for tutoring, counselling or just to build friendships and “navigate through high school.” Morghan Shearon, program director with The House, said they are also trying to offer positive role models for youth. She noted Grade 9 and 11 programs are Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. while Grade 10 and 12 programs are Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.

There are drop-in hours for youth Tuesday-Thursday for Grades 8-12 from 3-7 p.m., the Embrace group for LGBTQ+ youth every fourth Thursday, tutoring every other Tuesday, art therapy once a month, and free drop-in counselling through the Youth Wellness Hub starting Feb. 8.

For more information on The House, call 519-736-6811 or visit www.facebook.com/TheHouseYC.

For information or to donate to the Coldest Night of the Year, visit www. cnoy.org/location/amherstburg.

NOTICE

OF STUDY COMMENCEMENT

CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN STUDY

The Town of Amherstburg has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) to complete a Transportation Master Plan, which will be the Town’s blueprint for strategic transportation planning and direction for the future. The Transportation Master Plan will address existing challenges and develop a plan that will navigate today’s challenges, adapt to tomorrow s, and inspire the future. It will provide the Town with creative and realistic solutions based on input from the public, private sector and government agencies. The Transportation Master Plan will establish a transportation system to better serve residents, employers, employees, and visitors while accommodating all modes of transportation (e.g., public transit, commuter travel, commercial vehicles, and active transportation).

THE PROCESS:

The study is being undertaken in accordance with the requirements of Phases 1 and 2 of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process, which is an approved process under the Environmental Assessment Act. Phases 1 and 2 of the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process are as such:

• Phase 1: assess existing conditions, context, challenges, and opportunities; and

• Phase 2: develop network plans and identify triggers for different infrastructure needs, phasing of projects and an action plan.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

A key component of the study will be consultation with stakeholders, regulatory agencies, and the general public. Anyone with an interest in this study can get involved and provide input. Two (2) Public Open Houses and two (2) Online Surveys will be held during the study to inform the process, present findings, and receive public input. A notice providing the time and location of the Public Open Houses will be published in local newspapers and posted on the study website at www.talktheburg.ca/transportation

Currently, the study team is requesting comments regarding the existing conditions and related infrastructure in the study area through an online survey at www.talktheburg.ca/transportation or you may scan this QR code

For more information, to submit a comment, question or to be added to the project mailing list, please contact:

Todd Hewitt Manager of Engineering

Town of Amherstburg 512 Sandwich Street Amherstburg ON N9V3R2 Phone: 519 736-3664

Email: thewitt@amherstburg.ca

Information

OR

Brandon Orr Consultant Project Manager

TYLin International Canada Inc. 8800 Dufferin Street Suite 200 Vaughan, ON L4K 0C5, Canada Phone: 647.459.6109

Email: brandon.orr@tylin.com