River Town Times - June 21, 2023

Amherstburg Fire Department honours members

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Fire Department honoured some of its members last week.

The fire department held its recognition banquet last Friday night at Coachwood Golf and Country Club and honoured three retirees, long-serving members and also officially promoted members of the department.

District Chief Dave Mickle, Capt. Jerry Ferguson and Capt. Donald Deslippe were recognized for their retirements in 2022. Mickle retired after over 20 years with the fire department with Capt. B.J. Wilder introducing Mickle and praising him for his selflessness serving the community.

“Thank you for supporting us and thanks for your leadership,” said Wilder.

Wilder called Mickle “an exceptional leader” and the “backbone of Station 1.” Mickle was credited for being someone who “kept everyone safe and he made everyone feel like they mattered.” He added “Dave was the type of leader who earned respect” and “the type of leader who worked along side you.”

“He always had our backs,” Wilder added. “Dave left his mark on Station 1.”

Mickle thanked his wife and family as well as the chiefs, captains and firefighters he worked with over the years.

“I certainly had your backs to achieve the end result –for all of us to go home safely,” said Mickle.

Mickle added his family connections, noting his grandfather was the first chief of the Malden Fire Department. His father was also a firefighter. He also acknowledged the late Bill Pillon, noting he worked with him daily and Pillon helped get him started as a firefighter.

“It’s truly been a pleasure to be associated with the Amherstburg Fire Department,” said Mickle.

Ferguson was introduced by Capt. Tim Beneteau and District Chief Randy Wismer with Beneteau referring to Ferguson as “the last of the legendary Anderdon boys.” He praised Ferguson, who demonstrated a level of professionalism and helped find solutions to problems.

“Jerry was in it for the department, not for himself,” said Beneteau. “His message was powerful. Capt. Jerry Ferguson was a great captain, a legendary firefighter

and is an incredible man.”

“You set your goals high for us and we appreciated that,” said Wismer, noting Ferguson’s 41 years of experience.

Ferguson thanked his colleagues at Station 2 as well as his brother Brian, who also was a firefighter for 38 years.

Continued on Page 4

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

The Amherstburg Fire Department honoured long serving members and retirees at a banquet last Friday night. (Above photo) Top row (from left): Firefighter Brian Lowe – 5 years, Mike Haggarty –promoted to Captain, Captain David Varney – 25 years, Deputy Chief Ron Meloche – 30 years Chris Capaldi – promoted to Captain, Mario Fiorito – promoted to Captain, Fire Chief Bruce Montone, Bottom row (from left) Captain Donald Deslippe – Retired, Captain Jerry Ferguson – Retired, District Chief David Mickle – Retired, Captain Tim Beneteau – 30 years. (Right photo) Retirees Capt. Donald Deslippe, Capt. Jerry Ferguson and District Chief David Mickle. Retirees who were absent included Acting Capt. John Coulter and Firefighter Jon Daley.

New Canadians welcomed in citizenship ceremony at local school

it was taken back by the British and eventually became Canada.

“We are a town of many nations,” said Prue.

Prue acknowledged “you have worked hard to arrive at this point in your journey,” also telling the new Canadians they are to be congratulated for their efforts.

Prue added diversity is a strength of the country and they are now welcome to the freedoms and rights guaranteed by the constitution.

“The best is yet to come,” the mayor stated.

Emelda Byrne, director of education with the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB), stated education is a right in Canada and encouraged the new Canadians to “take advantage of every opportunity available to you.”

By Ron Giofu

A group of new Canadians were officially welcomed into their new country last week at a local school.

A citizenship ceremony was conducted at Stella Maris School where 28 people from seven different countries were welcomed into Canada. Judge Rochelle Ivri presided over the ceremony, which included people from India, Turkey, Jamaica, Pakistan, Romania, Guatemala, and Nigeria.

Stella Maris principal Tania Sorge welcomed the new Canadians, government officials and the Grade 6-8 classes from the school who filled the gymnasium last Thursday morning. Sorge called it “a very special day” and

stated the country is now more diverse and inclusive. She praised the determination and effort put in by the new Canadians and believed education is the key to unlocking the future.

“Together, let us appreciate the journey that brought you here,” she said.

Ivri noted she is the daughter of immigrants, as her family came to Canada in 1967.

“I could not be prouder of you and for you,” she told the new Canadians.

Ivri noted all of the immigrants made sacrifices and overcame challenges in their journey to Canada. She noted her family’s experiences in coming to Canada and that made her appreciate education more. She added she

can appreciate the hopes and dreams each of the new Canadians have for the future.

“I commend and congratulate you all,” Ivri told the group. “Thank you for choosing Canada and becoming members of the Canadian family.”

Ivri added they should remember such obligations as obeying the rule of law, volunteering and helping their communities.

Mayor Michael Prue pointed out part of the town’s welcome gift to the new Canadians, included a town pin with five flags.

Prue said those who have occupied the land throughout the years have included First Nations, the French, British and the United States before

Stella Maris vice principal Joie Reyner said it was an honour to be part of the ceremony and encouraged the students to remember this “once in a lifetime opportunity.”

The Altunova family were among those sworn in last Thursday. They came from Turkey and were happy the citizenship process is now complete. The family stated they are happy to be in Canada because of the country’s freedoms and to get a better education for their children Ibrahim and Sara.

“It’s beautiful. You feel like you are at home and a part of the community,” said Tulay Altunova.

“Thank you Canada, thank you Amherstburg,” added Fatih Altunova. “We are happy to be here.”

Citizenship Judge Rochelle Ivri stands with Grade 4 student Haruya Calla, the latter having performed “O Canada” at last Thursday’s citizenship ceremony (left). Stella Maris students joined new immigrants in waving the Canadian flag as part of the ceremony (above).

Motion passed regarding possible development of new track

By Ron Giofu

A new track, the space it will need and the timeline to raise funds were part of a motion passed by town council at their most recent meeting.

Councillor Peter Courtney asked for the space be identified for a new track at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park, which would be six lanes in some portions with eight lanes along the sides. He modified his original notice of motion given two weeks earlier.

Courtney said he would like to see a north-south orientation and also wanted the fundraising period extended from 18 months to June 2025. He said “the reality is this is already approved but we lost ten of the 18 months because we don’t have a policy.” He would later amend that to Nov. 2024 due to concerns from fellow council members over the length of the timeline.

A policy to monitor and govern fundraising is still being awaited, he indicated, as potential donors are apprehensive as they want transparency and that the money would be held by the town.

“I don’t think this is detrimental asking for the extension,” he said.

Councillor Molly Allaire asked if this would put “a hiccup” in any potential tennis/pickleball courts on the west side of the park. Director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Heidi Baillargeon said “there is space for both.”

Councillor Linden Crain wanted to know the cost to put a track at the park, but Baillargeon said there are many options “but you are looking into the million-dollar range.” She added there is a group of volunteers that are hoping to raise some of the funds for a track.

Crain asked how much has been raised with Baillargeon stating she is not aware if anything’s been raised.

Baillargeon said the base of the current track would try to be used as much as possible to save costs. Councillor Don McArthur questioned how much could be saved, with Baillargeon stated costs of stone could be saved but could not give an exact number.

Crain asked what happened to funding that was donated should the track not

proceed. Baillargeon said that would depend on the policy but suggested it could go to park redevelopment of some kind.

CAO Valerie Critchley said volunteers are proposing money for a specific project and they want the town to hold the money. There are “ins and outs” surrounding this including the issues of tax receipts, what to do with the money if the goal isn’t reached “and that’s why we need the policy in place.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb asked if North Star High School had planned to put in a track with Baillargeon stated a track was in the Greater Essex County District School Board’s original development plans. She indicated a track does not appear to be in the cards for a while, at least one that the board would pay for.

“We’ve had several discussions with the school board and they have no intention of doing so in the next ten years,” Baillargeon told town council.

Gibb questioned if it was fair if taxpayers pay for maintenance of a track if local schools are using it. He asked what the town’s plan is for maintenance.

Courtney said there were user fees paid in the past and couldn’t see why it wouldn’t be in the future.

Mayor Michael Prue believed the timeframe in Courtney’s motion was “disturbing” and thought it was too far in the future.

“This is a very long timeframe for me. Does it have to be that long? Can it be for Dec. 2024 so we could get it into the 2025 budget knowing what we have to put forward if anything,” asked Prue.

Prue said he wasn’t comfortable putting the issue to the next council. He added there should be timeframes to see if the project could happen, noting he doesn’t

Amherstburg man passes away as a result of crash in LaSalle

An Amherstburg man has passed away as a result of a crash in LaSalle.

The LaSalle Police Service is continuing to investigate a fatal single motor vehicle collision that occurred in the 2400 block of Front Road, Friday morning at about 1:48 a.m.

As a result of the collision, police say the driver, a 59-year-old Amherstburg male was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The LaSalle Police Collision Reconstruction Team kept Front Road closed until 7:30 a.m. Friday as they collected evidence and documented

the scene.

The investigation into this collision is ongoing at this time, LaSalle police adds.

LaSalle police are asking motorists who may have been in the area of the 2400 block of Front Road in LaSalle at approximately 1:48 a.m. on Friday, June 16 and may have information or dash camera footage that may assist in this investigation to contact the LaSalle Police Service at 519-969-5210.

The LaSalle Police Service states it is respecting the wishes of the family to abstain from publicly releasing the identity of the deceased.

want to lose all the time and “end up with nothing” at the end of the term.

Courtney believed the town was back at square one due to a decision earlier in the meeting to put tennis and pickleball courts at the Libro Centre, but Prue didn’t think guidelines on what to do at the park haven’t gone away.

Councillor Molly Allaire said she agreed with shortening the timeline.

“I see no hiccup in having a group of volunteers try and raise money for a great amenity for our town,” said Allaire. “If they fail, the money still goes back into our town.”

Allaire said the volunteers are trying to help their community and even if they raise $5,000, it’s $5,000 the town didn’t already have.

“Why would we prevent someone from trying to raise money for our town?” she asked.

Councillor Diane Pouget said the GECDSB paid user fees in the past to use parks because they were landlocked at General Amherst High School. She said there is no such agreement this year and believed they are awaiting the town to approach them on that.

McArthur believed an “aggressive”

timeline is needed with benchmarks, as he wanted all parties to know sooner where the track projects stand. He said “volunteers can carry this town on their backs and get things done” but a twoyear time frame is too long.

“If there is a big ticket donor, we should know within a month,” said McArthur. “We need to kickstart this campaign. It can be done. It happened in Leamington.”

The school board made it “abundantly clear” they don’t want to pay for a track, McArthur added, suggesting the fundraising pay for a track at the high school site and put passive parkways in the remainder of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park. McArthur cited senior citizen developments in that area of Amherstburg.

“It maximizes use of scarce greenspace in the town,” he said.

Pouget said what was promised and what was delivered for North Star High School “are two entirely different things.” She believed a track around the sports field at the school is “off the table” right now.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb supported tightening the timeline, stating if significant money isn’t coming in, it won’t happen. He said “the mood is out there for people to support their town” but when the sponsorship policy is passed, he wanted to know sooner if this is an achievable goal.

“We should reach out to the school board and get them involved in these fundraising efforts. They are extremely well connected. They helped get it done in Leamington,” added McArthur. “They need to be a partner in this.”

Funding efforts are reportedly ready to get underway for a new track at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park after the current track (pictured) had its south end cut off during the construction of North Star High School. Council took one step further towards a track during the June 12 meeting.

Villanova wins silver at OFSAA boys baseball championships

By Ron Giofu

The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats boys baseball team captured silver in last week’s OFSAA boys baseball tournament.

The final four teams in the province squared off in London last Wednesday to see who would be the top school in Ontario.

“We played our semi-final game against Humberside and we won 7-4,” said Villanova coach Tom Beale.

Beale said Jack Marcotte had a double and an RBI, Kalman Chyz had two hits and Will Lewis pitched five strong innings.

“Jackson Cole had a pivotal bunt in that game,” Beale pointed out.

The win put the Wildcats in the OFSAA gold medal game, but they ended up losing 4-1 against Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

“Their pitcher threw a no-hitter against us,” said Beale. Villanova’s only run came on a walk, error, passed ball

and sacrifice fly.

“It’s been a great two-year run,” he said. “This team has only lost three games in two years.”

Not many schools can say they’ve medalled two consecutive years at OFSAA, he added.

“It’s a pretty good run, especially for the seniors,” said Beale.

New bike shop and café opens on Dalhousie St.

By RTT Staff

A new bicycle shop and café has opened its doors on Dalhousie St.

Flow Café & Bikes has opened at 274 Dalhousie St. and its ownership includes members of a local cycling group that raised money and constructed trails at the Libro Centre. The shop is owned by Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) directors James Braakman and Dave Doherty as well as local BMX rider Eric Favot. They also have partnered with Katie Bastien with The Meal Prep Company, with the latter also offering their second location out of the bike shop.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held midday Saturday with Mayor Michael Prue calling it “an important event” in the town.

“It’s a sign Amherstburg is booming and people have faith,” said Prue.

Prue added “Amherstburg is open for business” and wants more businesses to locate within the community.

“We are so excited to be part of Amherstburg’s downtown core,” added Braakman.

Favot said there is a growing riding community and helped work with the WEBC group to build the trails at the Libro Centre. Over the last year, they met and discussed opening their own business.

“One year later, we opened our own bike shop,” said Favot.

The location of the Flow Café & Bikes shop is great and the response is “absolutely incredible.” The business was busy after the ribbon cutting and Favot said they were pleased with the reaction from the public. Favot said their passions are leading them places, and pointed to the growing trail network including the first phase of the WEBC trails. Bastien said her first location is in Windsor, with meals being prepared out of that location. She said she is happy to open her second location in Amherstburg.

Continued on Page 11

They hope a winning culture has been created so that it can continue with new players in the coming seasons. Villanova will lose 12 out of 22 players to graduation, but Beale added that is not uncommon for high school baseball. The Wildcats had about nine new players this season.

“In high school baseball, there’s always lots of turnover,” he said.

Last year’s team won many games by blowout but this year’s team had more come-from-behind victories.

“They earned every win this year,” he said. “It’s a very resilient group.”

Beale added the goal is that they take what was learned on the diamond and apply it to other areas of their life. It was also the last game for Beale as the coach, as he will step away after 21 years.

‘It’s been a pleasure hanging out with these young men for all these years,” he said. “It’s going to be hard to leave but the program is in good hands.”

Colchester Market

The Colchester Village Country Market was open for business last Saturday. Nearly 30 vendors including talented artist Orysia Rivest displayed and sold their wares. Those who visited had a chance to tour the school house which was built in 1881 and undergoing renovations. The next market in the Village of Colchester is July 16.

Retirements, long service awards, promotions recognized by fire department

Continued from Page 1

“Be safe out there, all of you,” Ferguson told his fellow firefighters.

Deslippe was introduced by Capt. Dave Varney and District Chief Rick Wismer. Wismer said Deslippe had a big heart and

showed it during his 32 years of service. He said if the fire hall needed anything, Deslippe would try and provide it.

Deslippe also hosted parties for firefighters at his home and had a reputation for making sure the fire trucks were

always clean.

“He is a brother, colleague and friend,” said Wismer.

Deslippe expressed his gratitude in a short, impactful statement.

“Thank you. It’s been a privilege,” he said.

Two other retirees were unable to attend last Friday night but their names were still read out. Thanked for their contributions were Acting Captain John Coulter and Firefighter Jon Daley.

The Amherstburg Fire Department also recognized members with long service

awards. Those included Deputy Chief Ron Meloche (30 years), Captain Tim Beneteau (30 years), Captain Dave Varney (25 years), Firefighter Brian Lowe (five years) and Firefighter Dan Hansen (five years).

A number of promotions were also made at the banquet including the promotion of Mike Haggarty to captain, Chris Capaldi to captain, and Mario Fiorito to captain.

The award for Most Committed Outside the Pager went to Wilder, Beneteau and Captain Kristi Meloche.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFSAA WEBSITE

The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats won the silver medal at last week’s OFSAA baseball championships.

Mayor Michael Prue cuts the ribbon at Flow Café & Bikes and The

RTT PHOTOS BY FRED GROVES

Local residents group bring concerns to town council

By Ron Giofu

A local residents group brought a trio of concerns to Amherstburg town council recently.

Nancy Atkinson brought three issues before town council at the most recent regular meeting. She said the concerns were from the “Amherstburg Residents Forum,” a group that meets monthly to discuss town issues.

The erection of a “No Parking” sign in the cutaway in front of the Navy Yard Park parkette was one of the issues cited by Atkinson, stating the use of the cutaway “has been a matter of perception by the users since it was installed.” She said the group is concerned with the safety of drivers in that area. The cutaway is at the intersection of Dalhousie St. and Richmond St.

“The residents felt this area should be treated as the three-way stop like it is and would like to suggest dialogue be brought forth re-curbing the cutaway as the rest of the sidewalks are in that area, making it clear there is no stopping in the area for any reason,” she said.

Atkinson believed the suggestion “simply makes the area safer for all.”

Mayor Michael Prue said he believed it was one of few T-intersections that had parking in it, something he said contravenes the Highway Traffic Act.

“Somebody finally came to the realization,” he said.

Manager of licensing and enforcement Bill Tetler stated police can still use the cutaway. He understood the original intention was for loading and unloading at the Salmoni Place Condominiums.

“It is a safety issue having vehicles parked in an intersection. If you look at any other intersection in town, you can’t park within ten metres of them,” said Tetler. “We felt it was necessary to erect that sign for the safety of the residents.”

Atkinson agreed it is a safety issue but added the signs are being ignored. Councillor Peter Courtney believed curbing and filling in the space was the solution, suggesting a costing.

Administration suggested bringing a costing for all options to council, with council passing a motion from Councillor Diane Pouget requesting such a report.

Local resident Larry Amlin said the park is “sacred” and the parkette is the entrance to the park. He said no one is enforcing the “No Parking” sign and also suggested curbing it, and if not, putting flower boxes there to block it off.

“It’s a busy corner for banks,” he said. “It’s a dangerous situation that needs to be corrected or we’re going to have a lawsuit.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb believed the issue of the “No Parking” is tied to the hotel issue.

“I want council to know this has everything to do with the hotel that was recently approved. That’s why people want to get rid of that parking spot,” said Gibb. “I just want council to know that’s what I

suspect this is all about before council asks for more staff time on a report later on.”

Councillor Molly Allaire said whether it’s for the hotel or not, “it’s a no parking area.” She said residents are now coming forward saying it’s a concern and administration is also saying it is an issue.

“I attended the (Amherstburg Residents Forum) meeting and I can tell you it was to do with safety,” said Pouget. “One hundred per cent of the people spoke on safety. I don’t recall anyone suggesting it has anything to do with the hotel and I find Deputy Mayor Gibb’s concerns or comments very, very, very offensive.”

Prue called it “a long-standing problem that predates the hotel.”

Another concern of the group was around the transparency and accountability of the town. Atkinson said in Feb. 2020, it was stated by administration the town was developing a routine disclosure and active dissemination policy. Council was later told the policy was developed and being reviewed, she said, and Atkinson said residents are asking when the policy improvement from three years ago will come to fruition. She noted then-councillor and now mayor Prue made the request for an update during the last term of council.

CAO Valerie Critchley said administration would be happy to bring a report back to council if that is the wish of council. Prue suggested a report discussing access to Freedom of Information requests with further details.

A third concern was relating to the Fort Malden Golden Age Club. The club is supposed to move back into its former home on Victoria St. S., the building that once housed Amherstburg Community Services before the latter moved into the Amherstburg Community Hub.

Atkinson said there is still no timeline for when

Book Review

Bitsy Bat, School Star

By: Kaz Windness

In this heartfelt story, Bitsy is starting elementary school and finding it hard to fit in. The other kids sit upright on their chairs, paint with their fingers, and stay on the ground, making Bitsy feel like the odd one out. Everyone attempts to correct Bitsy, but this only leads to her feeling defeated and no longer wanting to attend school.

With help from her family, they get Bitsy to return to school with a plan to celebrate everyone’s differences while making new friends. This is an excellent read for any child that needs a hand celebrating their uniqueness.

Submitted by River Bookshop Staff - Bookseller Grace

the club can move back in and they are “still being reshuffled from room to room” at the Libro Centre to hold functions. Atkinson added she was told around June 8 they would be in their building “soon” and a tour would be arranged shortly.

Critchley said council made a decision to move forward at the building in March 2023 during budget, and “quite a lot of work has been done there using our own resources to make the best use of taxpayer money.”

“A lot of progress has been made,” said Critchley. The CAO said the town does not want to be tied to an exact date of when the building could be reopened as “we’re at the mercy of tradespeople” but said they “are working diligently as per council’s decision.” Pouget said the Victoria St. building is important to seniors and they fundraised for the building and were later sent to the Libro Centre “against their will.” Seniors “have been treated very disrespectfully, in my view,” she added, noting they have still raised money for projects at the Libro Centre.

Prue added promises were made during the election, including by himself, regarding the senior population and said the current council passed a motion unanimously during budget to move forward with restoring the Victoria St. S. building. While they have had “hard times,” it was not due to the current council or administration, the mayor added.

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Book Review

The Paris Daughter

By: Kristin Harmel

As war creeps across Europe, two women find themselves drawn to one another as American women in France. When the Germans come to occupy Paris Elise must flee for her safety, entrusting Juliette with the safety of her daughter. When the war ends, Juliette hurries home to find not only her daughter missing but Juliette as well. The Paris Daughter tells the tragic story of war, loss and resilience, and Kristin Harmel has written another beautiful story you will love and remember.

Submitted by River Bookshop Staff - Bookseller Darrie-Ann

The cutaway in front of the King’s Navy Yard Park parkette, in front of the Rotary clock at the intersection of Dalhousie St. and Richmond St., now has “No Parking” signage. A local citizen group says that sign is being ignored and that was one of their issues that was recently brought before Amherstburg town council.

New radio station set to officially launch July 3

By Ron Giofu

Amherstburg’s radio station will officially launch next month.

Although CKBG “The Burg” is already live with “elevator music” on their frequency at 107.9 FM, station owner Marty Adler said their format and their on-air personalities will hit the airwaves July 3. They currently have a temporary licence from Industry Canada and barring any problems, they will be live the first Monday of next month.

“This radio station is going to be a metaphor for the town,” explained Adler.

Adler called Amherstburg “a Hallmark town,” believing it is the type of town depicted on Hallmark greeting cards. The music used in those types of ads are what is going to be part of the radio station.

There will also be a platform to talk about the town, including a morning show from 6-10 a.m. and a midday talk show from 10 a.m.-12 noon. The talk show will feature rotating hosts and will discuss various topics from nostalgia, politics, tourism and current events.

“We are not going to be right wing, we’re not going to be left wing. We’re going to be right down the middle,” said Adler. “For the most part, it’s going to be what is happening in and around Amherstburg.”

Steve Belanger will be one of the on-air personalities and said the music will be contemporary music from the 1960’s-90’s. Music will be played predominantly in the afternoon and Belanger believes people will enjoy it because the style of music that will be played is on the airwaves less and less.

“Amherstburg, I’m jealous (of the type of station) you’re getting,” said Belanger.

“We’re trying to build a station you can identify with,” said Adler. “We’re building a radio station with the good, the bad and the ugly.”

Adler said, as of last Thursday, he had interviewed 96 people for roles with the new FM station and noted his is the last commercial frequency in the Windsorarea market. He said other people the public will get a chance to hear from include Sammie Sweets, Spencer Duby and Paul “Petey” Desjardins. North Star High School students Cadence McLennan, Connor Boufford and Grace Beemer are also helping at the station’s Sandwich St. S. studios.

Duby explained that he was out walking one day and met Adler as they

were crossing the street. Six days later, Duby helped Adler across the street again and they struck up another conversation which led to Duby getting involved with the radio station.

“It was like something out of a movie,” said Duby.

Belanger described himself as “a radio buff” and learned about the station while working at the Holiday Inn in Windsor. Adler called looking for rooms for engineers and they connected and that led to Belanger coming to the station.

For Desjardins, he saw a social media posting and decided to apply for every position that was available. He said he just wanted to be involved somehow. Sweets said she did work for other radio stations and she said she is glad to be back in the business.

“We’re family,” said Sweets. “It feels like we’ve been together for a while.”

Adler stated he was looking for people with a passion for the radio and a passion for Amherstburg.

“I found them,” he said. “We’ve already had hallmark moments. It’s heartfelt. That’s what we’re going to have at this station. It’s radio for a small town. It’s personable. It’s talking to you, not at you.”

“Get ready, Amherstburg,” added Duby. “You ain’t seen nothing yet. We’re making history every day.”

Woofa-Roo Pet Festival returns to Libro Centre this weekend

By Hailey Zimmerman

Woofa-Roo is hosting their tenth anniversary festival this weekend.

The festival will be filled with plenty

of live presentations such as dock diving, dog agility, lure coursing, and dog races. There will also be over 50 vendors at the Libro Centre, including Tailwaggers Inn, Nuccelli’s, Cat Assistance Team, Windsor

Police Force, and many more, as well as plenty of charity contests and many more fun festival events.

The festival has had a fantastic expansion in turnout ever since the first year of the festival, in 2013. After a successful first year, Woofa-Roo continued as an annual festival. The event can now expect anywhere from 7,500 to 11,000 people and 3,000-4,000 dogs.

“The success of our first festival in 2013 shocked everyone,” says Lorene Clayton, director of Woofa-Roo Pet Festival. “With the help of a loyal following, where people adjust their work and vacation schedules to attend Woofa~Roo Pet Fest, we are confident after 10 years that we are one of the most anticipated events of the

year.”

There are also plenty of Woofa-Roo sponsors who help with the funding of the event.

There are different levels of sponsors, including, Platinum, Gold, Silver, Community Sponsors and more. Any interested parties in becoming a sponsor can find more information at http:// www.woofaroo.com/sponsorship-levels. html.

There are plenty of volunteers that help out with the festival as well. There are usually around 125-150 volunteers throughout a Woofa-Roo weekend, and the volunteer positions are always full in time.

The festival is weather-proof, meaning the event happens both indoors and outdoors, and does not have to be put off. This year, Woofa-Roo is taking place Saturday-Sunday, June 24-25th from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Admission is free for children under five, $5 for children between the ages of 6 and 16, and $10 for anyone over 16 years of age.

For more information, visit www.woofaroo.com, call 519-903-5500, or e-mail info@woofaroo.com.

CKBG is set to launch July 3 and is owned by Amherstburg resident Marty Adler (front, seated). With him are his team members Connor Boufford, Grace Beemer, Sammie Sweets, Cadence McLennan, Spencer Duby, Paul Desjardins and Steve Belanger.

WETRA demonstrates use of $146,100 grant from Ontario Trillium Foundation

Special to the RTT

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi got a closer look at what an area non-profit does during a visit late last week.

Leardi met with the team at the Windsor–Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) last Friday to hear more about the $146,100 Resilient Communities Grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to develop COVID safe spaces at the farm and raise awareness about the organization through a promotional video. The entire one-year project will be completed June 30 and will give people in the community improved access to programs at the facility for years to come without the worry of future pandemic closures, WETRA states.

“The Ontario government is pleased to help support the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association through the Ontario Trillium Foundation. Horses are beautiful animals and here at the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association, horses and people have been building a special relationship for years. Thanks to this grant, the WindsorEssex Therapeutic Riding Association will be able to continue that relationship for years to come,” said Leardi. In addition to the construction of an outdoor, covered riding corral, upgrades included the repair

and replacement of asphalt at the primary entrance to the barns and the addition of washable family waiting room furniture. The facility is used by a variety of community organizations who support persons with special needs as well as children and adults referred by area physicians and agencies. Thanks to the $146,100 grant from the OTF, people of all abilities will be able to access more areas of the farm and learn about our many programs through distribution of our promotional video.

“The impact of this funding from the Ontario Trillium Foundation will ensure that community members who

rely on our services will benefit from the improvements and upgrades for years to come,” said Becky Mills, executive director of WETRA. “This grant has supported much needed improvements and safety measures so equine assisted services will be less impacted should the need arise to navigate future public health risks. Funds from the OTF have assisted us in promoting, improving and rebuilding our programs to a pre pandemic participation rate. We also want to congratulate the Ontario Trillium Foundation on 40 years of granting and building healthy and vibrant communities across the province.”

WETRA is committed to improving the lives of persons with diverse needs and we are a centre of excellence for innovative equine assisted services.

Anyone wishing to learn more about the program offered by WETRA can visit www.wetra.ca.

The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF), an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations celebrates 40 years of grant-making in Ontario and making a lasting impact in communities. Last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships, which included funding for the Government of Ontario’s Community Building Fund. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

Essex MPP reflects on his first year in office, touts provincial government’s record

By Ron Giofu

With the provincial government on recess, the area’s Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) is touting his government’s record after his first year on the job.

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi believes his first year in office has been a positive experience for him and that the year has been beneficial for the riding.

“I think it’s been a great year,” said Leardi. “I think it has been a great year for Essex County, that’s for sure.”

Widening Highway 3 from two to four lanes has been beneficial for our county. Going from two to four increases community safety and helps get our goods to market faster. That’s why the expansion of Highway 3 is so important for our region.”

Premier Doug Ford was in the riding

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recently to announce the next phase in the highway’s expansion from Essex to Kingsville.

More highway projects are to be expected, he stated, including an interchange on Highway 401 at Lauzon Road.

According to Leardi, the provincial government has also attracted $25 billion in automotive investment to Ontario, calling it “a huge turnaround from ten years ago.” He said the $25 billion in investment has been since 2020 and “that’s huge, especially for our region.”

The province gave Volkswagen the same deal as Stellantis when it came to EV battery plants in Ontario, saying the current issue with the Windsor EV facility is between Stellantis and the federal government. Leardi said the province stepped up with a better offer.

“The ball is in the federal government’s court,” said Leardi.

Investments have still been made in St. Thomas, Oakville and Brampton, he added.

“That’s good for all of us,” said Leardi. Specific to Amherstburg, Leardi said North Star High School opened last September and “it has an awesome shop program.”

Leardi stated the province was a part of that and also praised Integrity Tool & Mold for its donation to the machine shop at the school.

Skilled trades apprenticeships are up 24 per cent over the past year, he said, and stated there is a “great partnership” between the province and skilled trades unions like LiUNA.

“We want to see more skilled trades training,” said Leardi.

Growth in the region means more power has to be brought to the region, he said, with Leardi adding he can’t remember the last time more power had to be brought to Essex County to support

growth in residential, industrial and agricultural sectors. Obtaining a stronger power supply is the largest issue in the future, he believes.

“Everything is growing, growing and growing,” said Leardi. “That’s going to be the biggest challenge going forward –power, power, power.”

Leardi said complaints over the Greenbelt are “unfounded” and stated the province is “making the Greenbelt better by 2,000 acres.” He said “there’s always pressure on housing” and restoring the pride of ownership has got to be a priority.

“We’ve got to provide housing for people,” said the Essex MPP.

Leardi also used projects around Amherstburg as exciting, including developments being built or proposed by local residents Terry Jones and Norbert Bolger.

“They are beautiful projects, remarkable projects,” he said. “This is homegrown talent. This is our own people building for our own people. You can’t get any better than that.

Leardi said he has enjoyed his first year in office, saying his 24 years of experience as a lawyer made him ready for the job. He said he advocated for clients in court and is now doing so for residents in Queen’s Park.

“I hope I am living up to the voters’ expectations.”

Speed sign concerning for local resident

PHOTO COURTESY OF WETRA’S FACEBOOK PAGE

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi and Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy were among the guests last Friday as WETRA demonstrated what it has done with an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi is reflecting on his first year as the riding’s provincial representative.

A temporary speed sign on County Road 10 caused concern for local resident Holger Kretschmann, as he stated the sign was set for 50 km/hr when it is in a 60 km/hr zone. He believed the signs to be “a waste of money,” adding he wants to see department heads challenged to come up with savings and stop “senseless spending.” Submitted photo

JULY 1, 2023

DOWNTOWN / TODDY JONES PARK / FORT MALDEN

12:00 p.m. to Dusk

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

5k W.R.A.C.E. @ 9:00am

Amherstburg’s Mighty Machines

Scavenger Hunt and Prizes

Open Air Street Games

FREE cupcakes

Facepainting

Food Trucks

River Dance Academy @ 12:30pm Canada Day Celebrations Saturday July 1st

Canada Day 2023 5km Run and Road

Local man wins national award as water operator of the year

By Ron Giofu

A local resident has won a national award for his work as a water plant operator.

Robert Budway, an Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) employee who lives in Amherstburg, was named operator of the year at the recent Water Canada Summit. The award ceremony recognizes people in the water and wastewater industries across Canada with this year’s ceremony being held in Ottawa.

“It’s humbling,” said Budway, of the award. “There are a lot of nominees.”

Of the three in the operator of the year category, one was from British Columbia while two, including Budway, were from Ontario.

Budway said the recognition largely was due to his work on behalf of OCWA at the Neskantaga First Nations reserve about 430 kilometres north of Thunder

Bay. Operators were needed to help get their water plant online and while there are still boil water advisories in that area due to the flow level coming from the plant, operators were able to get usable water where people could bathe and do other things in.

Assisting the Alzheimer Society

“OCWA was invited to go in and provide support for the First Nations,” said Budway, noting that was initially in Oct. 2021.

Budway started going to the Neskantaga plant in Dec. 2021 and ended up spending a lot of time in 2022 there as well, sometimes spending up to six weeks at a time in the remote community. He figured he spent over 180 days there.

“When we came in, we had to get it up and running,” said Budway.

Due to OCWA’s role in getting the water plant to produce usable water, there are no more evacuations in the area.

Operators would fly into the area and often had to use boats, sleds and helicopters to get to exact locations.

“You worked alone,” he said.

Not only did operators have to pick up three weeks worth of groceries while in Thunder Bay before going to Neskantaga, they had to endure several

rounds of COVID-19 testing so they could enter and exit the reserve safely.

The operator of the year award was surprising to Budway, as it was something he said he didn’t expect. He was nominated by John Kingsbury, who oversees logistics and support with OCWA. Budway has worked with OCWA for approximately 42 years. He started his career with the Elgin Area Water System in Port Stanley and moved back to this area in 1985. His first major water emergency was Walkerton.

While he has won internal awards with OCWA, Budway said this newest award at the Water Canada Summit was one of his biggest because it was an external award.

News of the award has spread and Budway said he’s getting a lot of people congratulating him.

“This is different because it’s an outside organization and it’s Canadawide,” he said.

Amherstburg Public School helps fundraiser for SACU

Seasons Amherstburg held its annual Alzheimer Coffee Break & Bake Sale recently and the event, which also included a walk around the Front Road South property, raised $3,778.50 for the Alzheimer Society of Windsor-Essex County. Seasons Amherstburg staff and sponsors presented the cheque to the Alzheimer Society last Friday morning. From left: Alzheimer Society manager of fund development Eugene Van Wyk, event sponsor Norbert Bolger of Nor-Built Construction, Alzheimer Society communications and volunteer engagement co-ordintor Calista Papaefthimiou, Alzheimer Society manager of special projects Cindy Keo, Seasons Amherstburg leasing manager Morgan Ouiment and Seasons Amherstburg fun manager Jenn Lauzon. The money will be used to fund social programs at the Alzheimer Society as well as programs for caregivers.

Special to the RTT

For the eighth year, Amherstburg Public School participated in a fundraising event for SACU – Save African Child Uganda. They have sponsored two children, Ronald and Hadijah over the years providing them with clothing, food, education and medical assistance. APS also had several students involved this year outside of school to help raise funds by selling bracelets and lemonade.

Altogether they raised $1,064!

A special thank you to Rick & Kathy Vriesen and Ingrid Silvaggio Heugh, for coming out to APS to share how the school’s efforts have helped these children.

If you would like to sponsor a child, please contact Ingrid Silvaggio Heugh at 519-990-5514 for more information or visit their website at www.saveafricanchildrenuganda.org.

Thank you everyone for your support!

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Robert Budway (right) won Operator of the Year at the recent Water Canada Summit. At left is his nominator John Kingsbury. Submitted photo

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Hadley Helkie and Grace Jones (left photo) and Genevieve Brennan (right) held fundraisers for Save African Child Uganda (SACU). They are Amherstburg Public School students.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

North Star High School honours athletic finest for 2022-23

By Ron Giofu

North Star High School has honoured its finest athletes from the 2022-23 school year.

The school held its athletic banquet last Thursday night at the Ciociaro Club in Tecumseh. Physical education department head Lisa Voakes welcomed the crowd and thanked students, coaches and parents for being a part of North Star athletics.

“This has been an exciting year of firsts. Our first full year with all sport teams having a regular full season. Our first year at North Star,” said Voakes. “From the first football practice last August to OFSAA track and field and everything in between.”

Voakes thanked teacher Ben Pelger “who worked very hard to create memorable awards that are a little different this year” and said the awards were created at school “with his talents and his big heart.” She also thanked teacher Samantha Thomas and Nikki Maxey for helping to decorate the hall.

“Thank you to our talented athletes sweating on the courts and running on the fields, our dedicated coaches planning and strategizing and our supportive parents cheering in the stands and driving athletes in your cars. You all played an important role in our successful year,” Voakes added.

Voakes also read a message from principal Melissa DeBruyne, who was unable to attend the banquet. DeBruyne told the students they showed commitment and learned lessons while playing sports that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

MAJOR AWARD WINNERS

Top Female Athlete – Lily Mulder

Top Male Athlete – Kyle Jones

Spirt Awards – Daniel Morujo, Afften Essenpreis

Sportsman Awards – Jake Chittle, Lily Sleigh

Athlete-Plus Awards – Rhys Sharman, Hannah Rusenstrom

Most Dedicated – Declan Veldhuis, Colin Hebert, Mikalah Wilcox

Female Student Athlete – Mya Foreman

Male Student Athlete – Owen Harris

Top Male Junior Athletes – Owen Scott, Traven Fines, Ryan Reid, Ashton Fevreau, Max Ricciuti

Top Female Junior Athletes – Gemma Goldman, Julia Mailloux, Lauren Essenpreis, Grace DeThomasis, Rylee Varney

INDIVIDUAL SPORTS

SR. GIRLS BASKETBALL — Mya Forman (Most Dedicated), Lily Mulder (MVP)

SR. BOYS VOLLEYBALL – Rhys Sharman (MVP), Owen Harris (Coaches Award)

FOOTBALL – Lucas Morencie (MVP), Kaydin

Cacilhas (Offensive MVP), Kyle Jones (Defensive MVP), Zack Macumber (Lineman of the Year)

CROSS COUNTRY – Emma Rudling (Rookie of the Year), Camryn Maxwell (Most Dedicated)

TENNIS – Ryan Cipkar (Coaches Award)

GOLF – Ben Buchner (Award of Excellence)

New bike shop and meal prep businesses officially open

SR. BOYS BASKETBALL – Colin Hebert (MVP), Declan Veldhuis (Most Dedicated)

SR. GIRLS VOLLEYBALL – Mya Foreman, Lily Sleigh (Awards of Excellence)

GIRLS HOCKEY – Mikalah Wilcox, Maddy Szewczuk (Corey Meloche Outstanding Leadership Award)

BOYS HOCKEY – Carter Prieur, Jake Chittle (Coaches Award)

SWIMMING – Jessica Reaume (MVP), Ashley Durocher (Most Improved)

BOYS SOCCER – Mateo Rivas, Carter Prieur (MVPs)

GIRLS SOCCER – Mikalah Wilcox (Unsung Hero), Leanna DiGiovanni (MVP)

SR. BADMINTON – Seth Guthrie, Emily Beauregard (MVPs)

TRACK & FIELD – Lily Mulder & Declan Veldhuis (MVPs), Lauren Kelly (Rookie of the Year)

GIRLS SLO-PITCH – Lily Mulder, Madison Drouillard (MVPs)

BOYS BASEBALL – Owen Harris (Sportsmanship Award), Austyn Deschamps (Leadership Award)

DANCE – Matelyn Levy, Avery Baker (MVPs)

Jones said it is “always fun to come out” to sporting events and thanked the coaches who came out and gave of their time to assist with the athletic programs.

“I’m very proud and I’m also proud of the coaches and everyone who came out,” he said. “It’s a team effort.”

Mulder was also appreciative and thanked her teammates, coaches and parents.

“I just love to do what I do,” she said.

Continued on Page 4

“I love Amherstburg,” said Bastien. “I think it’s an up and coming town.”

Bastien called the town “very active” and thinks The Meal Prep Company will succeed. She said she makes healthy, home cooked meals, vacuum seals them and brings them for sale to Amherstburg.

Favot called it “a unique strategy” to partner with the Meal Prep Company while Bastien added they are all like-minded people.

“I think it’s a great partnership,” she said.

The major award winners from North Star High School’s athletic banquet were recognized last Thursday night (above). Those included Kyle Jones as Top Male Athlete and Lily Mulder as Top Female Athlete. RTT Photos by Ron GIofu

Long-time high school teacher, coach calls it a career

By Ron Giofu

A long-time local high school teacher has retired.

Greg Scott has retired as a teacher, a profession he began in 1994. He spent the bulk of his career at General Amherst High School, finishing his career at the new North Star High School.

Scott said he had heard people say they know when it’s time to retire and that moment came for him early in the school year.

“I knew in November I was of the mindset it was time to go,” said Scott. “I made the decision in my head then. I felt I was ready.”

Scott’s official last day is at the end of June but he has been off on leave since March Break.

Plans for the future include spending time with his daughter, doing some travelling and finding new causes to get involved in. Scott stated he is already doing some volunteer work with the Amherstburg Farmers Market.

Noting he started his teaching career on a First Nations reserve in northwest Ontario in 1994-95, Scott said he moved back to the area shortly after and started volunteering at local schools. After getting onto the supply teacher list, he had a short stint at General Amherst before getting hired full-time at Belle River District High School in 1996.

Scott taught in Belle River until 1999 when he transferred to General Amherst High School.

While in northwest Ontario, he taught every subject and when he came to Belle River, he taught geography, history and English. After coming back to General Amherst, he taught geography before going into physical education.

Scott is also a graduate of General Amherst as a student.

“There are a lot of memories,” he said. “There were a lot of good staff to work with and we did a lot of cool things in the community.”

Scott said he looks back on some of the students he used to coach, including the “hey day” in the early 2000’s when the girls basketball program was racking up championships at the junior and senior levels.

“I still run into some of the kids I coached. It’s cool they’ve become successful people and are happy in their own lives.”

One example Scott cited was Lyndi Meloche, who won four OFSAA championships as a player and is now back at North Star High School as an assistant coach.

Scott guided the junior girls program to numerous WECSSAA and SWOSSAA championships and also assisted with the senior girls program as they won five OFSAA titles and had ten straight appearances at the provincial tournament. He credits colleagues Dom Silvaggio, Frank Palumbo, Vic DiNardo, Dale Priestly and Karl Wightman among others as reasons for the program’s success.

“A lot of the success really came down to timing and opportunity,” he said. “I’ve had some really good mentors.”

Many players came to high school already having been taught the fundamentals of the game at the elementary level, he noted.

“I was fortunate to be in the right place at the right time,” said Scott.

Scott said he’ll miss the relationships with the staff he worked with, noting he looked forward to seeing them when he went into the building every day. He’ll also miss the students and the parents, noting a lot of the reason he had success in his teaching and coaching career was because of the values the parents instilled in their children.

Community projects were also important to Scott, noting one that stands out was last year’s 100th anniversary celebrations for General Amherst High School. He teamed with Jen Desjardins-Grondin, Linden Crain and numerous volunteers to present that event, something he said he still hears positive feedback of.

“It was really cool to be able to put that on and close (the school) off the way it should be with a big celebration,” said Scott.

Being an educator at General Amherst was also a family affair, with Scott’s father Ross and uncle Dave also being on staff for many years. His mother was also the principal of the Southshore Campus in that building as well.

“It was definitely a neat experience,” he said, though added he wanted to “blaze my own trail when I was there.”

Scott encourages former students to get involved, go back and coach or help in some other way. It keeps programs alive and allows people to take part in extra activities and sports.

Fellow teachers and coaches paid tribute to Scott at last Thursday night’s North Star High School athletic banquet.

Teacher/coach Jeff Miller said when he arrived at General Amherst High School in 2002, Scott was coaching basketball both at General Amherst and at the University of Windsor.

Miller said Scott was a key part of the success the basketball program had at General Amherst, also pointing out Scott’s community involvement with the 100th anniversary celebration being cited as just one example.

“He’ll definitely be missed,” said Miller.

Teacher/coach Ben Pelger also paid tribute to Scott, thanking Scott for the support he showed him and that he pointed out the school is special.

Greg Scott is retiring as a teacher and coach from North Star High School. He is seen coaching the junior girls basketball team at General Amherst High School in 2012 (above). At right is a recent picture of Scott.

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In Loving Memory of DaviD Mayville

July 18, 1952 - June 21, 2022

A year without Dave has been hard for us. Our tears still fall with all our memories of him. Losing Dave broke our family tree along with our hearts, no longer Can we ask for his opinion or talk together about our past. Always three of us now down to two, for those of you that knew Dave, you know that he was a gentle soul, kind until the end, always willing to give even though he didn’t have much. Dave will be forever missed by us and I’m sure so many others that he helped along the way!

Love Laurie, Dan

Community Calendar

Services. Anyone wishing to volunteer can contact be.the.light.outreach.ministry@gmail.com.

FRIDAY, JULY 7

Rd. (County Road 10). Must call first: 519-996-4800.

or visit www.amherstburg-cs.com.

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

EGG TO BUTTERFLY - The LaSalle Horticultural Society presents event to teach people how to raise a Monarch butterfly. Event being held at St. Andrew’s Church at 205 Laurier Dr. in LaSalle. Runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $25 registration fee. For details, e-mail horticulturalsociety@ mdirect.net.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24 & SUNDAY, JUNE 25

FILL THE BUS FOOD DRIVE - Be the Light Ministry hosting “Fill the Bus” food drive at Rob & Tina’s No Frills and Sobeys from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Be The Light offers a community meal every Sunday afternoon at 2:30 p.m. in downtown Windsor, and supports single parent families with groceries. Items received above Be The Light’s needs will be given to Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission and Amherstburg Community

MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH - Held behind Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St., in Amherstburg. Entertainment will be ‘’Lauren, Lefty and Dave Wilson,” starts at 6 p.m. (weather permitting). Free to attend, donations encouraged. Bring your own lawn chairs.

SATURDAY, JULY 8

“CHRISTMAS IN JULY” TAMBOLA - Held at the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S. Lots of wonderful items to be won! To win items at the Tambola, you can buy and envelope with 50 of the same number for $2. Join us for an evening of fun. Doors open at 5 p.m., tickets will be drawn at 6 p.m. sharp.

ONGOING

YARD SALE DONATIONS WELCOME - Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. is now accepting donations of good, clean, quality items for their annual huge twoweekend Charity Yard Sale this summer. Please no large furniture. All donations can be delivered to Mary and Marc Beneteau’s home, located at 3560 Middle Side

FREE COMMUNITY MEAL - 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. 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.).

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 within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640

MISSION HOURS - The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., is open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch served 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.

Bob Meloche Memorial Fishing Derby crowns 2023 winners

By Ron Giofu

A Father’s Day tradition continued thanks to the AMA Sportsmen’s Association.

The Bob Meloche Memorial Fishing Derby returned last Sunday, a tradition that started over 40 years ago in Meloche’s back yard. The tournament was named in his memory after he died.

Gord Meloche was helping to run the tournament, as it was in tribute of his father. He said the turnout was “a little light” this year as compared to previous years but was happy to see the people come out.

“They can fish anywhere,” said Meloche.

Children and their parents fished off of King’s Navy Yard Park, around Big Creek and anywhere they thought was a good spot to drop a line into the water. Meloche was in Navy Yard Park measuring the fish that were caught before going back to the Lowes Side Road club to continue his duties.

Participants had to be back by 12 noon to have their fish measured.

“It’s great,” said Meloche, of the tournament and it being named for his father.

Meloche recalled the tournament starting when he was about eight years old and he’s now 62-years-old.

“It’s been a while,” he stated.

AMA Sportsmen’s Association vice president Ken Tytgat and fishing derby president Pat Pettypiece believe the tournament is at least 40-years-old.

Tytgat said the club is appreciative of all the

volunteers that came out this year with Pettypiece adding they also thank all of the sponsors. Sponsors are estimated to have covered approximately 75 per cent of the costs of the fishing derby.

Over 160 children participated in this year’s Bob Meloche Memorial Fishing Derby.

“It was a good year with beautiful weather,” said Pettypiece. “The kids are having a ball. When you get a prize, how can you not be happy?”

Winners in the 0-4 age category:

FIRST – Bohdi Kamrock (four-years-old, 25”)

SECOND – Blair Dragicevic (two-years-old, 23”)

THIRD (tie) – Brooke Pelletier (two-years-old), Theo Rodriguis (four-years-old), Clay Vigneux (four-yearsold), all 19”

Five to eight age winners

FIRST (tie) – Braydin Kollin (six-years-old), Reid Gignac (seven-years-old), both 27 1/4”

SECOND – Amelia Maher (six-years-old, 22 1/4”)

THIRD – Cece Grager (six-years-old, 20 1/2”)

Nine to 12 age winners

FIRST – Will Lowe (10-years-old, 42”)

SECOND – Zackery Kollin (nine-years-old, 31 3/4”)

THIRD – Curtis Realba (12-years-old, 29”)

Amherstburg Oldtimers hockey team gather for first-ever reunion

Lenson. “They haven’t seen each other for so long.”

Those in attendance enjoyed a steak and chicken dinner, relived some old memories and had a good time in the process. Lenson said it would be nice to keep it going and believed a reunion could happen again in the future, if not

every year maybe every five years or so.

About six members of the original Amherstburg Oldtimers hockey team have passed away, he added, and while he wishes a reunion was held sooner, Lenson was pleased to see as many former players as he could.

“I’m glad we did this,” said Lenson.

Front

Jason Laframboise, Dave Berdusco, Ron Lenson, Bill Atkinson Jr. Second

Marcel Pare , Gary Balogh , Noel Bolianne , Dan Ouellette, Glen Murray, Reg Spencer Howie Marjerrison, Rick Murray. Third row John Simone, Grant Gibb, John Corbett , Fred Newman , Dave Thrasher, Joe Laframboise, Art Murray, Girard Bondy, Brud Carmichael, Pat Lafferty Bill Atkinson Sr., Jim Ouellette, Mike McLean. Back row: Tony Jaber, Dan Theriault, Wayne Dingle, Tim Mickle, Joe Thrasher, Jeff Newman, John Rosa, Ken Souligny, Mike Mathieson, Mike Couglin, Harold Brough , Brian Thibert , Paul Imeson , Jeff Lafromboise , Terry Meunier, Larry Burgess , Jack Quinn , John Jaber, and Jim Rousseau.

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Oldtimers hockey team past and present got together Saturday evening and paid tribute to the past.

The Oldtimers gathered at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association and not only re-connected, but honoured their history as well. Ron Lenson, whose father Ron Sr. helped found the Oldtimers hockey program roughly 45 years ago, helped organize the reunion and believed it was a great evening.

“We decided to have an alumni dinner for the Amherstburg Oldtimers,”

said Lenson.

Lenson pointed out the team dates back to 1978 and has given back to the town in many ways over the years. He added they wanted to do something to give back to the players and their families.

“These guys have supported the community for years,” said Lenson.

“We’ve always donated money and we still do, but it was nice to get together with the people who started the team.”

There were about 91 people invited to the alumni dinner, with approximately 50 of them being players and the rest being their wives and family members.

“Some of them even teared up,” said

Winners of the 2023 Bob Meloche Memorial Fishing Tournament were crowned Sunday at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association (top left) while Nick Lunetta fished with daughters Selena and Gabriella off of King’s Navy Yard Park (top right).

Fathers and sons who played for the Amherstburg Oldtimers dinner were recognized. Front row (from left): Joe Laframboise, Fred Newman Dave Thrasher , Bill Atkinson Sr, Back row (from left): Jason Laframboise, Jeff Laframboise, Jeff Newman, Joe Thrasher, Bill Atkinson Jr., Ron Lenson

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