River Town Times December 28, 2022

Local resident to celebrate 100th birthday

By Ron Giofu

An Amherstburg resident is celebrating her 100th birthday this week and she has led an eventful and heroic life.

Cornelia “Nellie” White will hit the century mark this Thursday (Dec. 29) and will do so with many accomplishments in her lifetime.

White was born and raised in Holland and endured the horrors of war having lived through World War II in her homeland.

Not only did White and her family have to endure the war, she and her friend Hanny decided to travel over 200 km each way in early 1945 to her cousin’s farm near the German border to seek food.

The pair headed out in what was supposed to be a trip that would take only weeks, but it turned into months in bitter cold. It was so cold that White’s suffered frostbite to her feet.

“There was no food,” said White. “We went to the farm to see what they had left. It was cold.”

White recalls sleeping in barns with permission of the owners on the dangerous journey.

“We slept with the animals,” she recalled.

Her journey was documented by her son Mike and published in a national Legion magazine several years ago.

The war was a terrible experience, White said.

“That was a terrible thing, that war,” she stated. “It was awful. What the Germans did was bad.”

When Allied forces made a food drop, White also recalled being shot at by Germans when she and others went to

retrieve it. She scaled a fence and fled.

White lost a younger brother in the war but after she finally returned home, the war soon ended. Things started to look up, as she soon met a man who

would eventually become her husband. A young Canadian soldier spotted her in a dance hall and the rest became history.

“My girlfriend and I went to a dance hall close to our home,” said White.

“He was watching. When the song stopped he came and talked to us.” White joked “he didn’t dance very good but that’s how I met him.”

After coming to Canada in 1946, White and her husband raised nine children. She said she’s not sure the secret to her longevity but is proud of her children, grandchildren and the rest of her family. She said she never thought she would live this long.

“I still don’t feel that old,” said White.

White’s son Dennis said his mother outlived her siblings and many of her friends.

“She’s older than everyone else in her family,” said Dennis. Her mother died of a heart attack just months after she came to Canada while her father moved here for a couple of years before moving back.

White has been back to Holland three times since she moved to Canada in 1946. She said she has seen a lot of changes there since she came to Canada.

“She didn’t speak any English when she arrived here,” said Dennis.

Dennis said his mother would go to Beckett’s Variety where the “funny papers” were saved for her.

“She learned to read English from the comics,” said Dennis.

“It didn’t take me long,” said White, who is still fluent in Dutch.

White’s love of music stayed with her when she moved to Amherstburg.

“I still went to dance school once a week. I love dancing,” she said, adding she also enjoyed playing the mandolin.

White was also a long-time member of a local walking club. She added she has met very friendly people in her 100 years.

“I’ve had a good life in Canada,” she added.

Nellie White of Amherstburg is celebrating her 100th birthday Dec. 29. She lived through World War II and even took a three-month trek with a friend to find food for her family near the end of the war. She moved to Canada in 1946 and raised nine children with her husband.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Ribbon cut for launch of town’s new EV charging stations

to put up the money for EV charging stations.

“I know people thought we ought to spend $120,000 and leave it up to the private sector,” said Prue.

Prue believed charging up electric vehicles is “very cheap in comparison to gas” and while he doesn’t own an electric vehicle now, he plans on making his next vehicle an electric one. Tetler noted it is a $2 per hour fee to charge his vehicle, estimating that would last 365 kilometres in the winter and 500 km in the summer. Tetler added there is an app that can map out a route so people know where to find charging stations when needed.

It would take five to six hours to charge an electric vehicle if the battery was low, Tetler stated.

Prue believed opening new EV charging stations and possibly investing in more is good for the economic development and tourism sectors of town. He added people can come to town and not have to worry about where to charge their vehicles.

By Ron Giofu

New electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are operational in Amherstburg with more to come, and that was celebrated last week.

A ribbon cutting was held last Tuesday morning at the Libro Centre, site of two of the new EV charging stations, with Mayor Michael Prue and Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk also offering official greetings.

After the brief program and ribbon cutting, manager of licensing and enforcement Bill Tetler gave a demonstration on how to use the EV charging stations on his electric vehicle.

Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne pointed out that town council approved a $120,000 expense in May for EV charging stations.

Osborne noted the town has since seen $40,000 in grant funding through a “Charge Up Windsor-Essex County” program offered through Essex Powerlines.

Kusmierczyk said the federal

government wants to fight climate change “by building the technology of tommorow.” He added “we are investing in a clean future” with the goal to switch to all zero emission passenger vehicles by 2035.

Kusmierczyk added the federal government wants to install 50,000 EV charging stations across Canada by 2026, with 300 for Windsor-Essex County. He further stated that additional investments have been made locally, including for the EV battery plant and the retooling of Stellantis’ Windsor Assembly Plant.

“When folks take electric vehicles out, it is very important to know they can charge them,” he said. “We are working towards a more sustainable and prosperous future and today is and important step in that direction.”

Kusmierczyk said the goal to have more people transitioning to electric vehicles and the government want to make sure the infrastructure is keeping pace. He added the private sector is stepping up, including General Motors installing 40,000 EV charging stations at its dealerships throughout North

America.

The Big 3 are making “big bets” to transition to electric vehicles, Kusmierczyk added, quoting a figure of $40 billion.

Prue believed it was a proud day for Amherstburg.

“This was not an easy thing to get done,” said Prue, recalling “angst” around the council table last term about spending $120,000. “The decision was a wise one.”

Prue, a councillor last term, said “it was a contentious debate” for the town

“It’s Amherstburg moving into the future,” said Prue. “It’s important that we seize where we are going and not where we have been.”

In addition to the two charging stations at the Libro Centre, there is an EV charging station at Toddy Jones Park with another soon to be operational at the parking lot at the corner of Richmond St. and Ramsay St.

Essex Powerlines said via a tweet their “Charge Up Windsor-Essex County” program has seen them allocate funding for 144 EV charging stations in the region.

On behalf of the team at The River Town Times, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to our valued readers and advertisers. It is with your continued and unwavering support that we are able to provide local news and information. Serving this outstanding community is our great pleasure. We look forward to a year of growth and continued success. We would also like to thank our devoted proofreader Ian Phillips, as well as our dedicated carriers Ken and Louise. You are all a vital part of helping deliver the news.

Thank you and all the best in 2023, Ron Giofu & Laura D’Alessandro

A ribbon cutting was held to officially open the town’s new EV charging stations at the Libro Centre. Another is at Toddy Jones Park while another is expected to be operational in the parking lot at Richmond St. and Ramsay St. From left: director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Heidi Baillageon, CAO Valerie Critchley, deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne, Eric Freeze of Essex Powerlines, Mayor Michael Prue, WindsorTecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb.

Manager of licensing and enforcement Bill Tetler gives a demonstration on how to use an EV charging station, including how to use it in conjunction with an app on a smartphone. A phone number is on the charging station for anyone having difficulty using it.

Amherstburg Community Services’ year-end review for 2022

As we close out 2022, Amherstburg Community Services is grateful, thankful and hopeful for a wonderful 2023. Staff, volunteers and community partnerships made it possible to obtain our goals this past year.

We increased our programs, services and events to keep our clients enlightened and engaged with a focus on the goal of improving the overall quality of life for residents in the four communities we serve, Amherstburg, LaSalle, Harrow and McGregor.

We move into 2023 with a sense of anticipation, as we will be celebrating our 50th year. We have a great lineup of new programs, services, events and fundraising efforts, sure to please everyone.

We want to thank those who have supported us with

monetary donations, as without their support, we couldn’t do, what we do! We are honored to serve the community and look forward to doing so in 2023.

“Exciting year” for Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club in 2022

please contact Bryerswood. Our contact details are at www.bryerswood.com

New cabins are on the horizon for 2023. There is prep work which needs to happen first before anything can be installed. If you have construction experience, we would love to hear from you.

We also have another building which requires refurbishment to convert it for year-round use. Once again we could use help.

Both the site prep and the building refurbishment will require funding.

Donations can be made online at www.bryerswood.com or cheques can be mailed to the camp office. Receipts are available for donations of $20 or more.

Members are still being sought

for our Founders Club. Individuals, groups or organizations can join for a donation of $5,000. The generated funds will be used to pay off the private mortgage that was secured to close the camp purchase. For more information, please contact the camp office.

Coming up on January 28 is the annual Chicken or Rib Dinner fundraiser at the River Canard Columbus Hall.

Tickets are $27 each and can be gotten by calling 519-988-6420. 2023 is going to be another exciting year for Bryerswood Youth Camp, where “Our Environment is Your Opportunity.”

Thank you to everyone who has helped bring us to this point.

—Submitted by

2022 has been an exciting year for Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club.

With the support of Amherstburg Community Foundation and CenterLine (Windsor), a new solarpowered illuminated entryway sign was installed, along with directional signs on Howard Avenue. Thank you to both ACF and CenterLine for funding this project.

With great joy the first campers were welcomed for March Break Day camps. A fun filled week of activities was enjoyed by all.

On April 23, Earth Day celebrations were held. This was a joint event with many community organizations helping to provide activities for young and old alike. Approximately 500 people attended. Some of the activities and displays enjoyed were tree planting, native plant planting, solar power, electric vehicles, home chargers for electric vehicles, compositing worms, and household battery recycling.

Thank you to all community partners

for making Earth Day 2022 such an outstanding success. We are looking forward to April 22, Earth Day 2023.

In June, Walker Aggregates donated gravel for a good portion of the camp driveways. Thank you Kris McGuire and team for making this happen. Without adequate accommodations for younger campers and with COVID-19 still on the horizon, the Summer Camp program was limited. Two very successful weeks were still had.

This fall we began a control program for the Phragmites at the camp. A big thank you to the Invasive Phragmites Control Centre and the Essex County Field Naturalist Club for their leadership, guidance and assistance. This will be an ongoing program for a few years before we start the maintenance program.

Not only are programs offered at Bryerswood Youth Camp, but the facilities are available to rent.

If you would like more information about renting at the camp or purchasing programs for your group,

Cathy

Robertson BYCOC vice president

On behalf of everyone at Romano’s we extend our sincere thanks for the past years support and warmest greetings for a safe and happy holiday season. May 2023 hold much joy, happiness and prosperity for you and your family. Happy New Year!

Wed., Dec. 28

8:30-5 Thur., Dec. 29 8:30-5 Fri., Dec. 30

Sincerely, Kathy DiBartolomeo Executive Director

Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo and her team thanks the community for supporting the non-profit agency over the past 12 months. ACS will be celebrating its 50th year in 2023 and promises a lineup of new programs, services and events for the communities they serve. Submitted photo

The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club, located at 6480 Texas Road, reports several accomplishments for 2022 and will start 2023 with a chicken or rib dinner at the River Canard Knights of Columbus Hall Jan. 28. Submitted photo

Amherstburg Target Sports helps out

County forming its committees

By Ron Giofu

Essex County council is filling out its committees with Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue to be on two of them and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb on one.

County council officially approved the recommendations at their Dec. 21 meeting. As part of the recommendation, 12 committees and the county council members that will be on them were formed.

County council also approved a change that will see county representatives on TWEPI paid a standard per diem.

Prue will be part of the WindsorEssex County Environment Committee (WECEC) along with LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche.

The Amherstburg mayor will also be one of four county representatives on the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) with Warden Hilda MacDonald, Deputy Warden and Tecumseh Deputy Mayor Joe Bachetti and Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley.

MacDonald is also the mayor of Leamington.

Gibb will be part of the Essex County Library Board with Bachetti, Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy and lay appointees Lauren Segedin from Kingsville, Sue Desjarlais of LaSalle and Heather Latam from Leamington. The latter two

are also councillors in their respective municipalities.

Appointed to the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) were MacDonald, LaSalle Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata, Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara and Shepley. Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt will serve as an alternate member of the EWSWA in 2023 and 2025.

Akpata will also serve on the 911 Technical Advisory Committee and the Windsor-Essex Community Opioid and Substance Strategy.

Bondy will be the county representative on the Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee (ECAAC) with Rachel Jewell, Diana Kirkbride, Julie Miles, Dennis Sanson, Debbie Alexander and Sherri Currie.

Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers will sit on the Windsor-Essex Food Policy Committee (WEFPC) while Rogers, Meloche and MacDonald will be the county representatives on the Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) board.

Bachetti and Kingsville Deputy Mayor Kim DeYong will sit on the WindsorEssex Community Housing Corporation (WECHC) while McNamara will sit on the Housing and Homelessness Advisory Committee (HHAC).

MacDonald will be the county appointee to Invest Windsor-Essex.

Have a happy, safe and enjoyable new year!

Where did 2022 go?

I can’t be the only one who is asking that question.

It doesn’t seem that long ago where I was finishing up the 2021 Year in Review (2022 is coming next week) and getting that to press. Winter, spring, summer, fall and now winter again have just blended together for me and I know I’m not alone.

With Christmas now in the rear-view mirror – except for the credit card bills in many cases – attention now turns to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. That means people will be out celebrating the end of one year and the start of another.

Recently, MADD Windsor-Essex County launched “Project Red Ribbon” in which people can buy a ribbon at their local police station as a way to fundraise and to remind people not to

drink and drive. The ribbons are a way to remember those lost in impaired driving collisions and also to keep those injured in such crashes in mind as well. The ribbons act as yet another way to demonstrate the importance of staying sober behind the wheel.

There really is no excuse to get behind the wheel of a vehicle in an impaired condition. If you have been drinking or have been smoking cannabis, don’t overdo it and then reach for your keys. There are many different ways to get home safely, if you have to get home that night (or any night) at all.

Call a cab.

Spend the night at a friend’s place.

Have a designated driver.

Call an Uber or take the bus.

Anything but getting behind the wheel in an impaired condition.

Impaired driving simply isn’t worth

JUST A THOUGHT

Ron Giofu

it. Not only are you putting your own life in jeopardy, but you are also putting others at risk including passengers in the same vehicle or in other vehicles. It also is costly if caught by the police, in more ways than one. The penalties are strict and severe and rightly so.

Be safe, be smart and have a Happy New Year! The River Town Times office is closed this week, but someone will be in periodically to check e-mails and voice messages. We’re squeezing in a bit of a break this holiday season and we hope everyone else gets a well-deserved break as well for rest and rejuvenation.

***

Will the town end up buying the General Amherst High School building? They are at least taking a look

and getting an appraisal of the building.

My current position on what should happen to the building would be convert it into some sort of housing, whether it be a seniors facility, apartment complex or condominium building. The thought of possibly moving town hall into the building is intriguing, but even if that comes to fruition, I would still like to see at least some of the building sold off and at least some housing go into another part of it.

Should a new town hall ever be built in Amherstburg, I would prefer a new build at the Libro Centre. Of course, there would have to be a plan on how to pay for it and it’s not going to be cheap, but I am just thinking on the location itself if a new town hall is ever built.

Private investors turning the former GAHS building into housing and bringing residents into the heart of the town is the most appealing idea for me in terms of what to do with that building. I just hope rehabilitation costs aren’t too much and that the building doesn’t sit idle for too long.

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Ron Giofu

Laura D’Alessandro

The local club Amherstburg Target Sports recently donated six boxes of nonperishable food items to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. Items were collected by members of the club to support those in need. Pictured are Dave Dunn, Lex Parker, and Tony Hammer with a few if the boxes prior to donating.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Fighting Island Boxing Club hoping to build on programming in 2023

The Fighting Island Boxing Club, (FIBC), has been in operation continuously since 1998 as a registered not for profit under the stewardship of its president, Joe LeBlanc.

Its primary function is to provide boxing instruction to amateur athletes from the ages of 10 years to adulthood.

Originally housed in LaSalle, the organization relocated to Amherstburg in 2008, where it set up headquarters at the corner of Simcoe St. and Victoria St.

It has since relocated to the community hub at Victoria and Richmond St.

Although the club coaches youths in boxing fundamentals, its overriding goal is to provide a sense of purpose, commitment, and confidence to our youth. Many of the participants come from what can be described as “at risk” situations.

Being part of FIBC builds a sense of community, which is very valuable to the Town of Amherstburg. Giving back to the community has always been one of our principal goals.

Members have volunteered time to provide assistance to various community events such as the Car Show, Christmas parade, wine fest etc.

The athletic achievements of our athletes have been stellar since its beginnings. FIBC has churned out provincial and national champions for years.

In 2023, two more of our members will be competing for gold at the National competitions, having qualified in provincial competitions in 2022.

Since its inception, the club has been providing a valuable resource to the youth of Amherstburg. In 2022, at least 70 youths have been registered.

This number has been fairly consistent since 2008. Not all youth remain for years, however, many of the athletes remain to assist in coaching other new members once their competitive involvement ends.

In 2020, FIBC, in conjunction with the Town of Amherstburg Recreation Department, began offering a woman’s boxing program.

Originally held once a week, it has grown into

continue to operate in 2023.

Other programing which may be held in the future may include a seniors boxing class in addition to a class for individuals suffering from neurological diseases, particularly Parkinson’s. Boxing activity has been proven to be an effective therapy for people suffering from such illnesses.

In 2022, FIBC was honoured as the top not for profit organization in Amherstburg. This is quite an accomplishment owing to the amount of outstanding non-profit organizations which exist in this community.

FIBC has no administrative costs i.e. management staff, which must be paid. All coaches donate their time to keep the club running.

However, operational expenses and overhead are constant. These include rent, internet, equipment, travel costs to tournaments etc. Hence, fundraising is continuous. Bingos, raffles, fundraising dinners etc. are always being performed to keep the club in operation.

Donations are gladly accepted. Any fundraising groups who would consider making FIBC the beneficiary of a fundraising event would be tremendous.

Any individuals who have a background in boxing who would like to donate time should contact our club by coming to the community hub Monday through Thursdays at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

We can also be contacted via Facebook or e-mail at fibclasalle@hotmail.com.

Wednesday Guild’s Christmas story at Gibson Gallery

’Twas 10 days before Christmas and all through the County

Knitters were busy delivering their bounty.

Mittens and hats all over were spread to warm tiny fingers and cover kids’ heads.

The knitters were filled with a great deal of awe to look at their work and here’s what they saw.

A year’s worth of work had come to an end with 300 items that they could now send.

They don’t know who’ll get them but that doesn’t matter they were made with love, cookies and chatter.

As the knitters giggled to see it completed they danced around laughing ‘cause their stash was depleted.

They’ll take a quick break as Santa comes by then back to their needles with a new pattern to try. They’ll take a quick trip to visit the store ‘cause there’s never enough yarn. You always want more. And the strangest thing that the knitters will hear is a partner grumbling “Where now my dear”?

“Now Michaels, now Walmart, now Len’s Mills, let’s go! There’s a clearance sale on and I’ve got coupons to blow!” And when we return to meet once again we’ll fondly remember those knitters now gone.

The Wednesday Guild is a social group of people who knit and/or crochet and meet every Wednesday at Gibson Gallery, 140 Richmond St., Amherstburg from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Gallery is now closed to the public for the season, reopening in early March 2023. However, the Guild continues to meet in the Gallery space throughout the winter. New knitters are always welcome and yarn donations are graciously accepted. For more information, please email treasurer@gibsonartgallery.com

—Submitted by Pat Palumbo of the Fighting Island Boxing Club

The Fighting Island Boxing Club, located within the Amherstburg Community Hub, saw its enrolment remain consistent in 2022 and hopes to add more programming in 2023. The goal is to start offering a seniors boxing class and other classes, including those suffering from neurological disorders.

The Wednesday Guild at the Gibsson Gallery helped out the community with donations of mittens and hats over the holiday season. Submitted photo

The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter keeping busy to help three shelters in D.R. Congo

place to deliver their babies safely, learn about maternal and baby care and be protected.

In 2022 our successful giant charity, two weekend yard sale, raised a fraction of the necessary funds. Gratefully, we experienced a small increase in cash donations and sponsors.

Thank you for your support and interest in the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. Charity helping victimized children and young adults in the city of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa. Our charity strives to give these vulnerable children and young adults the basics: food, shelter, counseling and an education.

Our founder, Father Donato Lwiyando was born in the DR Congo and served as a priest at St. John the Baptist Parish from 2015 to 2018. He is a member of our volunteer Board of Directors and now has returned to Bukavu and oversees and manages the shelters.

The charity now maintains three shelters. The good news is that we have doubled our involvement, the

other news is that we have doubled our expenses.

1. St. Joseph accommodates up to 42 young women and children. Due to poverty and ongoing wars, there is instability in the country; the girls have been raped, displaced and are homeless with no means of support.

2. St. Mary’s has 26 boys, ages 8 to 14, who came in from the streets, leaving many children behind. The reason for the recent increase of children on the streets is displacement due to the war in the province north of Bukavu.

3. Holy Family gives pregnant street girls a

The House Youth Centre stays active

In February, The House participated in the Coldest Night of the Year raising funds for hurt, hunger and homelessness. The House’s youth programming serves as a preventative measure of all these things. Thirty team captains and 165 walkers raised $58,000 surpassing our $30,000 goal.

In July, The House welcomed a new Program Director, Morghan Shearon. Morghan was a youth member of The House from 2010-2014 and continued on as a leader and volunteer ever since.

In August, The House held its 20th Annual Community Cup Golf Tournament at Sutton Creek Golf Course and started the new 2022/2023 program year with our traditional Leadership Kickoff night for our volunteer leaders.

In September, as COVID-19 restrictions lifted, The House was able to have full in-person meetings at our new home in the Amherstburg Community Hub. Youth members and volunteer leaders were finally able to reconnect in-person through our Peer Mentorship Program after a trying year of online meetings and rotating in-person schedules. Our Peer Mentorship Program has been running since 1971.

In November, The House’s Peer Mentorship volunteer leaders took part in our annual Senior Weekend Retreat in Oxley, Harrow. This retreat focuses on team building within each leadership team as well as strengthening relationships within the House so we can all better serve our youth. The grade 10, 11 and 12 peer mentorship groups will also take part in their own retreat in 2023.

In December, The House took part in its second year of Christmas shopping for 10 families thanks to a grant from Enbridge. The House partnered with the Food and Fellowship Mission who provided 10 family wish lists.

In December, The House launched its Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser happening on Saturday, February 25, 2023. The Coldest Night of the Year supports local charities that support those facing hurt, hunger and homelessness.

The House has a goal of $50,000 and we are looking for walkers and sponsors for this winterrfic event.

The sponsorship program is $25 a month: you receive a photo, information regarding your sponsored person and a yearly update. We are a Canadian Charity so we issue income tax receipts for donations of $20 and more. Throughout this coming 2023 year we hope to increase sponsorships, be making presentations to service clubs and researching grants pertaining to our charity. A summer charity yard sale is being planned and is presently collecting clean, gently used, sellable items.

Please call ahead to make a delivery. Contact Mary Beneteau at 519-996-4800. Volunteers are welcome and needed in many ways especially with the charity yard sale.

People who enjoy doing online sales from their homes can be a big support.

For more information contact Larry Allen at 519-736-6731.

—Submitted by Mary Beneteau and Larry Allen

Musical talent takes the stage

Father Donato Lwiyando, former associate pastor at St. John the Baptist Church, now operates three shelters in DR. Congo, including for young women and children in the African nation. Submitted photos

Father Donato Lwiyando works with youth in a field in DR Congo. He now operates shelters for boys and girls.

—Submitted by program director Morghan Shearon

in 2022, looks forward to 2023

The North Star High School band performed a Christmas concert last Wednesday night in the school’s main gymnasium. The roughly 60-minute concert featured holiday favorites, solo performances and a variety of other songs as well. RTT

Skate Amherstburg wraps up the first half of 2022-23 season

Skate Amherstburg has wrapped up the first half of its season with great success! Skate Amherstburg provides Skate Canada programming for area youth all the way though to our adult synchronized skating team, the Diamond Divas.

CanSkate is led by qualified Skate Canada coaches, designed to teach basic skating skills, whether a skater continues into figure skating or branches off to hockey, Skate Amherstburg is an ideal place to start.

The second half of our season begins on January 2. You can register a skater online at https://register. skateamherstburg..ca

Skate Amherstburg is proud to be sending a group of skaters to the Skate Ontario Provincial Series Competition in LaSalle the weekend of January 27; and our Starlights Synchronized Skating Team will be competing in London in February.

Skate Amherstburg is a non-profit organization offering programming out of the Libro Centre. Each spring we host an ice show to give all our skaters the chance to showcase what they have learned over the season. We rely on local fundraising to help offset our fees as much as possible, including hosting Fish Fries at the Amherstburg Knights of Columbus and funding from Paradise Gaming Centre.

Inquiries can be sent to info@skateamherstburg.ca and our website is https://skateamherstburg.ca.

Golden Age Club party

—Submitted by Sarah Bedal Secretary, Skate Amherstburg

(Above) Diamond Divas (2019 team) Allison Maitre, Felicia Laramie, Jennifer Shay, Karlie Simon, Meagan McLellan, Katie Knapp, Lianna Miller, Krysten Swyntak, Lee Ann Neufeld, Morgan Queen, Danielle Peltier, Alanna Keren.

(Right) CanSkate Program Assistants Haley Delaney, Lainey Wood, Paige Mayhew

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The Fort Malden Golden Age Club held its annual Christmas Dinner Party Dec. 14 at the Columbus Community Hall in Amherstburg. A total of 106 members attended. Members of the club were entertained by their very own line dancers led by Jan Kelly. Plus, the “2 of us” band performed for two hours. There was good fellowship and over 45 door prizes given out. Club president Dorothy Thrasher welcomed all to our turkey dinner.

Submitted photos

Goodfellows pack and distribute 100 food baskets this year

By Ron Giofu

Volunteers with the AAM Goodfellows were busy last week ensuring people didn’t go hungry over the Christmas holidays.

The Columbus Community Hall in Amherstburg was a busy place last Wednesday afternoon packing food baskets with AAM Goodfellows president Rick Murray stating the number was slightly lower than what they packed in 2021.

“We got 100 names this year,” said Murray. “It’s almost the same (as 2021). I think we had about 105 last year and we ended up giving out 99. Six people didn’t show up.”

The food baskets were packed Wednesday night and distributed Thursday morning, both from the same location. Murray indicated they have a tight time frame of when they have to be out of the hall as it has to be set back up for other events.

“We thought (the number of baskets) might be a little more,” he said. “I guess it’s a good sign with the economy the way it is.”

Murray was pleased with the number of volunteers and grateful many return year after year. Children were allowed to return this year and it was good that they were able to give back, Murray added.

“Hopefully they come every year,” said Murray.

Though the number of food baskets was lower than anticipated, Murray pointed out “100 is still a lot.”

“We’ve had other years with a lot more than that,” he added.

The AAM Goodfellows get a deal on their food from the Sobeys store in Amherstburg, with Murray thanking franchise owner Rennie Rota for working to get deals for them on the groceries.

“There’s enough food here for probably three or four meals,” said Murray.

Murray added they give out chicken and ham as opposed to a turkey as cooking a large turkey can be difficult for some people and if seniors live alone, they may have to figure out what do with excess food.

“It’s too hard for seniors,” he said.

Other food items ranged from such things as cereal and jam, to other items like soup, fruits and vegetables, ketchup, and more. Baskets also included personal hygiene items such as soap and toothpaste.

The Goodfellows raised about $16,800 in their newspaper sales.

Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission thankful for community’s support in 2022

This year has been a challenging and rewarding time at the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship; the support of this community has been truly overwhelming. Our volunteers were able maintain full level of service throughout COVID and we were able to open our doors to the public again and offer much need fellowship on top of the daily hot meals, emergency baskets.

Year after year this organization that is lead and run 100 per cent by volunteers has increased our output as the needs of our community has continued to grow. It takes a special community to enable a volunteer organization to operate over 5 days a week for the last 24 years, and we have now served over an estimated 200,000 quality hot meals to our community. This town truly is a world class example of “People Helping People.”

Lookback

Fifty families adopted/sponsored for

Christmas this year, the most of any year to date. We’ve been able to bring back Tim’s Famous Chilli event twice this year. We’ve hosted our annual Easter Dinner and Christmas Dinner. We have served over

Memories of Yesterday...

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

A group of men filling the ice house at the St. Joseph Church rectory in River Canard. From left to right: John Beneteau, John Odette, Ernest Loiselle, Cyprien Rousseau, Louis Beneteau, and Joseph Beneteau. Before refrigerators, river ice was relied upon to keep perishables cool during the warmer months. Ice was harvested from the river in the winter time and stored in ice houses.

15,000 hot meals and provided hundreds of emergency food baskets.

We have had so many organizations and members of the community take it upon themselves to hold can and food drives for us. Year after year we see people helping people. Recently we received 10,000 cans and perishable items from our community.

We’ve received funds for a commercial fridge, commercial potato peeler, and many other items that allow our volunteers to provide an efficient service.

Call For Help

We have a diverse group of 10 board members, and we have two openings on our board, and we are always looking for

those who want to contribute.

Also, we seek volunteers who want to help with sorting when we receive can drives, kitchen help, and we are looking for someone to help with our social media or keeping our website up to date.

This year we are looking to host more fundraisers, so we are seeking a sponsor for T-shirts for our volunteers for those events.

Looking Forward

In the coming year we will restart our fundraisers of cooking hot dogs outside business in town as the weather warms, we will offer Tim’s Famous Chili, we will bring back our annual Tambola, our Annual Golf Tournament, and we will always host our annual Thanksgiving and Christmas Dinners.

This year we will be focused on ensuring we can increase our fundraising to meet the soaring food costs; everything cost more, and the need of the community is the greatest it’s ever been. It will be a challenge, but it be one that we plan to overcome. We know we could never do this without the full support of our community, businesses, the town, the council members, the random acts of kindness of so many individuals who have contributed to our mission. Thank you from the bottom of our heart and we are excited to continue our mission of “People Helping People.”

—Submitted by Tim & Paul McAllister

Hearing tests, hearing aids, wax removal

The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission has been fortunate enough to receive a lot of donations this holiday season. Submitted photo

The Columbus Community Hall in Amherstburg was busy last Wednesday and Thursday. Volunteers with the AAM Goodfellows packed approximately 100 food baskets (pictured) last Wednesday evening then distributed them to those who registered for one last Thursday.

Society of Saint Vincent de Paul - Amherstburg Conference looks back at 2022

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul had a busy 2022 and offer thanks to those who assisted them last year. They have a help line for those in need of food or clothing and that can be reached at 519-984-7594. Submitted photo

In 1952 there were eight men in the Town of Amherstburg who had the foresight to understand the need, and they possessed the desire, to help the less fortunate in our community. In the years since there have been countless families assisted with food, clothing, furniture, and accommodations resulting in many of these families moving on to a better life for them and their children.

Their compassion and empathy towards people in need has resulted in an organization today that still possess the same values and giving spirit that makes our community a safe haven for those in need.

In 2022, we answered 430 calls for assistance resulting in 355 children and 863 adults receiving much needed food and other services.

Once again, the generosity of the Amherstburg citizens, businesses and schools shone bright when the need was the greatest. We all understood the strains Covid placed on society causing many to lose their jobs, yet we were able to meet the demands of those in need because of the strong support displayed by everyone.

The Society of Saint de Paul volunteers never wavered from their desire to continue to assist the poor and needy even during these difficult times. We were able to contribute over 5,000 hours assisting those in need during 2022.

We are so very excited that during 2022 we were able to have nine new members join our organization. They have shown a genuine desire to carry on the traditions of the Society by treating the poor with respect, love,

compassion, justice, and joy.

Our Christmas fundraiser is called the “Giving Tree”. A large Christmas tree is placed inside St. John the Baptist Church and parishioners are able to contribute financially to assist those in need. This year they were able to assist 26 families including 51 children which helped to purchase toys, clothing, and food for the holidays. We would like to thank Father Kucharski for his continued support all year.

Thanks to the Amherstburg Knights of Columbus for their generosity in funding our “Coats for Kids” campaign. We were able to give nine children a warm coat for the winter, along with some knitted hats and scarves from Elizabeth Huver and Carmen Grant.

We are also thankful for the numerous dates given to us to fundraise through the “Fish Fry’s” held on Fridays at the Columbus Hall.

We wish to acknowledge the gracious gifts of money, food, and clothing donated by the following:

- Parishioners of St. John the Baptist Church and the Catholic Women’s League

- No Frills and Wigle’s Meats

- Stella Maris, Ecole St. Jean Baptist, and St. Thomas of Villanova schools

- Fort Malden Golden Age Club

- Amherstburg Knights of Columbus

- Amherstburg Goodfellows

The Society of the Saint Vincent de Paul has a helpline for those who are in need of food or clothing. Please call (519) 984-7594.

Legion Br. 157 gives back

Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 recently donated $1,000 each to a series of local organizations in the community. The proceeds were from the Legion’s bingo funds. Back row (from left): 2nd Vice President Jeff Turner, President Laurie Cavanaugh, Jim Fryer from the AAM Goodfellows, Peter Thyrring from St. Peter’s ACHS College School, Tim Rousseau from Myeloma Foundation of Canada, Joe LeBlanc from the Fighting Island Boxing Club, Tim McAllister from the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, Legion Executive Allan Carroll, Sgt. at Arms Tim Girard, 1st Vice President Don Nantais. Front Row (from left): Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo, Amber Turner from the #202 Fort Malden Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps, Kim Curtis from the Cat Assistance Team (CAT) and Karen Deslippe from the AMA Sportsmens Association. Another $1,000 was given to Firehorse Leadership Organization, but that group ceased operations in 2022 and gave their contribution to ACS.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

North Star High School raises over 3,800 food items for two Amherstburg groups

By Evon Jr. Brockett

North Star High School’s student council hosted their very first food drive recently and it raised a lot for people in need.

Overall, North Star raised an amount of 3,866 food items. This food drive was planned and organized by North Star’s student council with a goal of raising as many cans as possible to split between the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission and the Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) for the needs in the community.

Amherstburg Community Service executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo, fundraising coordinator Peggy Thompson, and co-op student Joseph Murphy came to the school last Wednesday morning and helped to load their share of food items into their van with students from North Star. Approximately 50 students came out in the morning to help organize and load food items into the van. According to the teacher supervisor of North Star student council Lisa Voakes, approximately 30 of those 50 students were a part of student council.

When asked what ACS plans to do with the cans, DiBartolomeo says that she would like to make food baskets for family and individuals, bring food into senior apartments along with fresh vegetables and bread, bring the food to seniors if they have a hard time getting outside, and more.

On the other hand, later that afternoon, the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission president Timothy

Student council members at North Star High School donated over 3,800 items to Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) and the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.

ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo picks up her organization’s share (above) while students get organized for the next donation in the high school’s cafeteria (right)

McAllister, and board member John Drop worked together to load up their share of cans onto the mission van. Approximately the same number of students came out to help and managed to accomplish a lot.

These food items were delivered to the Amherstburg Community Hub where they will be store for a while after the mission has their Christmas

dinner.

McAllister expressed that he is excited for the food items and the fact that the school and students took time to raise all those items food for the mission.

McAllister also adds: “The mission will be in a good position to help the people in need because of the community who stepped up and helped us with these can drives so that now

we can turn around and bless the people in need. Because of the effort they made with the teacher and the kids at North Star High School, I’m thankful for them and for the can drive.”

When asked what North Star has in store for the future, Nathan Bratt who is the prime minister of North Star adds “We plan to have this food drive

SPECIAL TO THE RTT

North Star High School student prime minister Nathan Bratt (left) shakes hands with Amherstburg

Food and Fellowship president Tim McAllister at the conclusion of the school’s food drive last Wednesday afternoon.

Wolves heading into Christmas break with perfect record

By Ron Giofu

Although the results may not have reflected it, the Christmas break comes at a good time for the North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team.

The Wolves remained undefeated at 5-0 after a 25-19, 25-17 and 25-15 victory over the visiting St. Joseph Lasers last Tuesday night. The sweep means the Amherstburg-based high school have been victorious in all 15 sets they have played this season.

That said, the Wolves had showed some signs of fatigue in the match as they needed to surge midway through the sets in order to win them. Between WECSSAA league play, winning the tournament they hosted the previous weekend and some of the players competing at the club level on another team meant they played a lot of volleyball in a short period of time.

“I thought we played pretty good,” said North Star’s Emily Beauregard, though noting they have played a lot lately.

“I thought we could have done a lot better,” added teammate Lauren Essenpreis. “We pushed through it tonight. We won our tournament and the last game of 2022.”

Beauregard and Essenpreis agreed it is a good time to get some time off from the volleyball court.

“I think we all need a break from volleyball where we can re-set,” said Essenpreis.

Despite the perfect record in the 2022 portion of their WECSSAA schedule, Beauregard added “there’s always room for improvement” with Essenpreis adding they have come together and gotten used to each other on the court quickly.

Assistant coach Mary Ewer called it a “medium effort,” adding that often happens after a team wins a tournament.

“It wasn’t our best game,” added head coach Jeff Miller.

Between the players’ high school and club teams, it

is a busy time of year, he added.

“It’s the dog days of the season,” Miller stated. “It’s pretty packed this time of year.”

Miller said they have to keep playing the best they can play every match but was pleased with the overall record.

“From a results standpoint, we couldn’t be in a better spot,” said Miller. “It’s tough to say you have to be better when you haven’t lost a set.”

Staying at a high level will help the Wolves

come playoff time when they hope to compete for WECSSAA, SWOSSAA and OFSAA medals.

“We need to play as well as we can every game and get better every match,” he said. “I know it’s cliché but it’s the truth.”

The Wolves resume their WECSSAA schedule Jan. 10 in Kingsville with a 5:20 p.m. match against the Cavaliers.

They return home Jan. 12 for a 4 p.m. match versus the Sandwich Sabres.

North Star girls hockey team competes in “Crusader Classic”

puck carrier.

The North Star Wolves girls hockey team played in the Crusader Classic Dec. 20 & 21st at the WFCU Centre.

Our first opponent was St. Joseph’s who we had just played a day earlier at home in league play and beaten 2-0.

On this day though, St. Joseph came to play and caught us off guard and scored a fluky goal at 1:28 of the first period. In the final period we started to play much better and fought hard to tie the score on a goal by Mikalah Wilcox with 3:43 left in the game. The girls continued to press but just couldn’t get that second goal.

Our goaltender Grace DeThomasis played an outstanding game and gave us a chance to win making several key saves. She was chosen a well-deserved MVP for the game. Final score Wolves 1 St Joseph 1.

Game two had us up against the very strong AAA team from Chatham-Kent. They had previously beat Villanova (one of the strongest AAA teams in our league) 4-1 earlier in the day.

The coaches devised a game plan to try to neutralize their attack by clogging the front of the net and high slot with four of our players while the fifth chased the

After a couple early breakdowns that saw Chatham take a two-goal lead, the girls settled down and stuck with the plan. It worked right into the first part of the final period when we had a couple more breakdowns and bad breaks that ended up in our net.

The team continued to battle right to the final buzzer. Grace DeThomasis once again had a very strong game turning away countless shots. Final score 6-0 Chatham.

Despite the score the Chatham team had to earn their victory with a great effort from our Wolves. Sophia Aspila was chosen MVP for her hard work and determination.

On Day 2 of the tourney we met up with a very strong AAA Villanova team. We were told they had 45 girls tryout for this team. In comparison North Star had 18. We also knew that their team was mostly comprised of travel calibre players and in comparison, we had four. The team realized they would have a tough task ahead of them, but they were up to the challenge.

Once again, the girls used the same strategy used when they played Chatham. Late in the first period Villanova broke a scoreless tie due to a quick defensive breakdown in coverage in front of the net. But the team

never let that affect their mission and continued to battle.

They knew they would not get very many chances to score against this squad, but they did have some great opportunities to tie it up. Then with our goalie pulled for an extra attacker Villanova scored an empty netter to seal the deal.

We had our chances but just couldn’t buy a goal. We are blessed to have two very strong goaltenders and this time it was Carsyn Atkinson’s turn to put on a great performance. We found out after Villanova outshot us 36 to 8. The MVP for the game was Mikalah Wilcox for determination and effort right to the final buzzer. The game didn’t end in our favor, but the team sure earned the respect of Villanova’s coaching staff. Needless to say, our coaching staff were extremely proud of the effort this team put forth as they continued to grow and bond together.

We can’t wait to see them play in the second half of the season which resumes Wed., Jan. 11 at 3p.m. at the Libro Centre versus Cardinal Carter.

The North Star Wolves players, coaches and teacher sponsors would like to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas a Happy New Year.

(Above photo) North Star’s Afften Essenpreis (8, black jersey) and Mya Foreman (5, black jersey) go up for a block during last Tuesday night’s match over St. Joseph. (Right photo) North Star’s Lily Sleigh (12, right) hits the volleyball over a pair of St. Joseph players. North Star won the match 3-0.

Submitted by head coach Dan Pettypiece

PRAYER

HOLY SPIRIT - You who makes me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideas. You who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget all that is done to me. You who are in all instances my life with me. I want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no mater how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. (A person may pray this prayer 3 consecutive days without asking or their wish after the third day their wish will be granted, no matter how difficult it may be, and promise to publish this dialogue as soon as your favour has been granted.)

L.G.B.

LOOKING TO

519-567-4446.

GOLD + SILVER ALL COINS FOR SALE? Please read!! I did not recently send a colored brochure to your home. Before you sell take the time to get a second opinion (my offer is often double) - paying top dollar gold silver jewelry + all coins, free estimates. Buying paper, all windup pocket and wrist watches, money, stamp collections. House calls also available. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 55 years experience, 519818-1805.

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation and construction experience I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly and with pride. Locally owned & operated. www.renovations.ca Steve 519-300-0961.

COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT

1200 SQ. FT. - $1500/ month. Call 5190-817-470

LOST FAMILY HEIRLOOM yellow & white gold men’s diamond ring. In early afternoon on Dec. 19 in vicinity of 90 Murray St., Lynn’s Variety or No Frills. Reward offered. Call 519736-3387 .

APT FOR RENT

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SUDOKU ANSWERS

SCRAMBLE ANSWER HOLLY

Community Calendar

ONGOING

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.

RIVER CANARD K OF C EVENTS - Join the River Canard K of C for bingo. Barbecues the first Friday of every month, take-out only. For information, call 519734-8575.

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, located at 298 Victoria St. S., is in need of items. Among the items being requested are 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 always welcome. For info or to donate, visit www.aburgmission.ca or call 519-7369140.

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!

RAPID TEST KITS - Free COVID-19 Rapid Antigen test kit distribution program being supported by the Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce and Amherstburg Community Services (ACS).  Info at https:// amherstburgchamber.com/covid-19-rapid-screeningprogram/. Small and medium sized businesses with under 150 employees complete the Program Agreement form found at the link and bring the completed form to ACS between 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Currently distributing boxes of 25 test kits/per box.

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

Kicks & Giggles

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Cleaning and organizing can wait for another week, Aries. This week you should focus on having fun with your family and friends Enjoy the respite from work.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, work is on your brain, but it could be because you’re wired to focus on getting things done. Work is important, but remember to make time for other things as well.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Your bank account may not be as healthy as it could be, Gemini. Tuck those credit cards away and cut back on purchases for the time being to set things straight.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

You have been feeling less motivated of late, Cancer. That is likely due to the breakneck speed that you have been going for some time. Slow down and enjoy the break.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, practicality is your middle name. The next few days you may be focused on whimsy and imagination. It could be all the feelings the holidays are bringing up.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Planetary energies could be affecting those around you and their reception to your ideas, Virgo. Remain patient that things will tip in your favor after some time has passed.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Your thoughts this week are about setting goals for the future, Libra. Not that you haven’t already been doing

ON PAGE 13

your share of planning, but now you’re firming up those plans.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, issues with your professional life may be on your mind. It could be time to make a major change in the days to come. Are you ready to move in a new direction?

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 New responsibilities have left little time to spend with your significant other, Sagittarius. Carve out moments to snuggle if you cannot get out to a romantic meal or movie.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Have you been plotting a move, Capricorn? Make sure your real estate research is up-to-date and you’re ready to take the plunge. This move may be a big one.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, perhaps you have made a few big purchases lately and feel like your budget has taken a hit? Add up receipts and you may find it’s not as bad as you had thought.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 This is a good time for a change of perspective, Pisces. Maybe you have been looking at things all the wrong way. Switch things up.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

DECEMBER 25 - Jimmy Buffett, Singer (76)

DECEMBER 26 - Jared Leto, Actor (51) DECEMBER 27 - Bill Goldberg, Wrestler (56) DECEMBER 28 - John Legend, Singer (44)

DECEMBER 29 - Diego Luna, Actor (43) DECEMBER 30 - LeBron James, Athlete (38) DECEMBER 31 - Gabby Douglas, Gymnast (27)

ANSWERS

North Star hosts “Black and Gold Classic” volleyball tournament

By Evon Jr. Brockett

North Star High School’s very own Girls Volleyball team played in the “Black and Gold Classic” tournament against schools in the SWOSSA region Dec. 16-17.

This year the tournament was hosted by North Star High School. Fun Fact: This tournament has been running for over 20 years and this is the 18th version of the tournament.

The first 17 tournaments were hosted by General Amherst High School but now is transferred to North Star High School.

The senior girls teams competed against each other on the Friday starting at 1:45 p.m. and ending around 10 p.m. The junior girls teams competed against each other on the Saturday starting at 9 a.m. and ending around 5 p.m.

This year, 12 teams in both the junior and senior level competed for the championship.

When asked why North Star hosts this event the coach of the North Star girls team Jeff Miller says, “We always host this tournament in December to get our teams more matches in the beginning of the season to get some quality playing experiences.

It also acts as a fundraiser for our program so we can pay for other tournaments, replace our team gear, and more every few years. It also helps pay for some of our own senior team’s OFSAA expenses when we are fortunate enough to qualify for the provincial championship.”

As far as the results of this tournament, the North Star High School volleyball team won the senior girls tournament, having a 5-0 record. They defeated Essex, Tecumseh Vista, Ursuline College (Chatham), Massey, and Villanova.

However, the junior girls North Star High School volleyball team did not win the tournament and in fact pulled in a 0-4 record. The junior girls North Star team lost to Chatham-Kent, St. Joseph’s, Massey, and Villanova.

RTT PHOTOS BY EVON JR. BROCKETT

In the finals of the junior tournament, St. Anne’s played against Tecumseh Vista.

According to Miller, the North Star senior girls best single set was probably the first set vs Ursuline College to win their pool because the girls looked fantastic, outplaying a top-quality opponent.

Miller added the first match against Essex was probably their worst match because they were not in the rhythm of playing yet.

To end it off, Miller says “Our senior team has very high expectations. We are hoping to win everything locally, qualify for OFSAA as one of the top couple seeds, and see what we can do when we get there. Our junior team is basically a team of Grade 9 players. We are hoping to develop a few players who can help us a few years down the road.”

2023 SCHEDULE AMHERSTBURG COUNCIL MEETINGS

The North Star High School senior girls volleyball team was in action (above) at the recent “Black and Gold Classic” tournament held at the school. The senior girls won their division but the junior girls were 0-4. St. Thomas of Villanova was among the other teams that took part in the weekend tournament.