River Town Times June 7, 2023

Villanova raises over $70,000 at Relay for Life

By Ron Giofu

St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School brought back its Relay for Life event and did so in a big way.

The fundraiser was held last Friday and was held at the track and field complex at Villanova, with approximately $70,000 raised for the Canadian Cancer Society.

It was the first Relay for Life event for the bulk of the students as the event had to be cancelled in recent years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Olivia Borrowman and Mackenzie Delisle, two of the students that headed up the organizing committee, were thrilled with the results. Borrowman pointed out they exceeded their original $50,000 goal.

“Everyone is so excited,” said Delisle. Borrowman said they are grateful to not only the students and staff, but to

all the supporters including the sponsors. The bulk of the dinner offered as part of the event was paid for through sponsors, Delisle pointed out.

Attendance was not mandatory for students but there was a record number of students in the Wildcat community that took part.

“The students have been great,” said Borrowman. “There are almost 600 students here.”

That doubled their previous record, Borrowman added. Delisle said it is one of the biggest student-led Relay for Life events presented.

Many of the students hadn’t heard of Relay for Life before fundraising started in April. The committee helped enlighten the students on the event and the impacts of cancer.

The Relay for Life started with a Survivor’s Lap, with about ten cancer survivors leading the students around

the track at Villanova. Borrowman quoted 2021 figures, noting one in four people diagnosed with cancer will pass away from it, noting there were 229,200 diagnoses that year and 84,600 deaths.

Delisle said the Survivors Lap shows that cancer can impact anyone.

One of the survivors was Del Beltran, husband of St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School principal Laura Beltran.

“I feel good,” said Beltran. “It’s a

wonderful day, wonderful event and it’s for a good cause.”

Beltran said he had the same type of cancer as Terry Fox, osteogenic sarcoma, and lost his leg just like Fox.

“When he got it in his lung, I got in it my lung also,” said Beltran.

Five years of chemotherapy was able to change Beltran’s outcome from that of Fox, and he has now been cancerfree for 40 years.

Continued on Page 19

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

The Relay for Life event at St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School started with a “Survivors Lap” around the school track (above). Games and activities were also part of the day’s events, including tug-of-war (right).

County Road 18 vehicle crash turns into house fire

Home unoccupied at the time, vehicle driver sent to Toronto burn unit

By Ron Giofu

A vehicle and a home were both destroyed by fire following a crash early Saturday morning.

The Amherstburg Fire Department were called to 8801 County Road 18, just west of Concession 9 South, around 12:45 a.m. Saturday for the fire. All three stations attended but, due to it involving natural gas, were unable to save the home.

Fire chief Bruce Montone said a pickup truck left the road, took out a hydro pole and continued through a neighbour’s yard before crashing into the home. It also sheared off a gas meter along the way.

“The vehicle ended up in the master bedroom and took out the gas service as it proceeded,” said Montone.

A natural gas fire was ignited and Enbridge had to be called into turn off the gas.

“Fortunately, no one was home,” said Montone. “The family was away or this would have been significantly more grave.”

Montone added: “As a result of dealing with a natural gas fire, the house is a total loss.”

The driver of the vehicle was transported to the burn unit and Sunnybrook

Hospital in Toronto, Montone added. He had no update on the condition of the driver as of Monday morning.

The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office has been contacted, the fire chief added.

No firefighters were hurt in battling the blaze, Montone stated, and were on scene until approximately 7 a.m. Saturday.

“They worked their butts off,” Montone said of his firefighters. “The crews did an awesome job.”

Montone added the family who lived in the home will be returning soon and have other family in the area that the Amherstburg Fire Department has been in contact with.

The Windsor Police Service –Amherstburg Detachment were on scene and had the section of County Road 18 blocked off between Howard Ave. and Walker Road until early afternoon Saturday.

Staff Sgt. Brian Caffarena of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment told the River Town Times Monday afternoon the accident is still under investigation and that the driver of the vehicle “sustain serious injuries and was transported to hospital.” Accident reconstruction officers attended the scene to investigate, he added.

The remains of a home are pictured after it was struck by a vehicle and caught fire early Saturday morning. There was nobody inside the home when it caught fire.

Hydro crews work to replace a pole that was taken out in a car crash early Saturday morning. The accident is still under investigation by the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment. The Amherstburg Fire Department said the vehicle ended up shearing off a gas main before coming to a stop in the master bedroom of a home and catching fire. The home was a total loss.

Open Air returns

Open Air Weekends returned to downtown Amherstburg streets this past weekend with highlights including a Jody Raffoul Band concert Saturday evening (above), a fashion show by A La Mode and Towne Shoppe (left), and an Allison Brown performance in Navy Yard Park (right). A group of diners were out on Dalhousie St. Friday night (below) while games were enjoyed by youth (bottom right).

McGregor Music Festival returns this Sunday

By Ron Giofu

Music lovers and car show fans will come together this Sunday at Co-An Park.

The 32nd annual McGregor Music Festival returns with a full lineup of music, food and classic cars on tap for the public to enjoy. The festival is presented by a committee of volunteers with proceeds going once again to the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation.

Sue LeClair, chair of the organizing committee, said they have bands lined up all day starting at 11 a.m. C2C Entertainment will be under the pavilion on the Co-An Park stage from 11 a.m.-12 noon, followed by Back 2 Back from 12-1 p.m. The All Nighters play from 1-2 p.m., Lookin’ Back from 2-3 p.m., and Exit 31 from 3-4 p.m.

Entertainment resumes after the popular pig auction with Brand X scheduled to perform from 4:30-6 p.m. The Wellness Band will take to the stage from 6-7 p.m. Bad Moustache will conclude the day’s entertainment by playing from 7-8 p.m.

The car show runs most of the day and LeClair said an addition this year is a rib dinner that will run from 4:30-6 p.m., right after the pig auction.

“There’s only 200 tickets being sold (for the rib dinner),” said LeClair.

Advance tickets are required for the dinner.

There will also be more for children to see and do.

“This year, we have super heroes coming in for the kids,” said LeClair.

LeClair said there are many quality prizes for the raffle and those tickets can be purchased in advance or at the festival. There will also be a pie auction.

The organizing committee tries annually to beat their fundraising record from the year before, with this year’s goal being $85,000. Specific projects the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation will use the money for include the patient assistance fund and robes for radiation.

Continued on Page 5

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

Park House Museum planning 50th anniversary celebrations

By Ron Giofu

The Park House Museum is turning 50-years-old this year and a number of events are being planned to celebrate the milestone anniversary.

While the history of the Park House dates back over 200 years, its use as a community museum began in 1973.

Curator Stephanie Pouget-Papak stated they are planning events a quarter of the year at a time with one of the events being

planned called “The Hutch.” Named for Dr. Hutchinson, who hosted a garden party at the Park House in 1951. PougetPapak said she discovered that while doing research and the museum team decided to have a barbecue of their own on Canada Day.

“We’re kind of recreating that party,” she said.

People will be able to eat at the Park House Museum or take their food with them, said Pouget-Papak, stating it will be

a busy day in Amherstburg so people can eat and run if they wish.

“We’ll be able to show off the accessible walkways, shed and gardens,” she added, as new sidewalks, porch and shed are at the rear of the building.

The Park House Museum will also be bringing back its Anne of Green Gables tea and its Outlander tea as well as a Fairies in the Garden tea for children.

Pouget-Papak added they are working towards finishing an Indigenous

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

heritage learning centre on the second floor of the museum. TV screens will allow for streaming of shows, there will be Indigenous-themed books and other activities once it is opened. She pointed out it will be a self-guided tour so people can learn about colonialism and the effects of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples. People will be able to watch the same programming on the main floor, if they have difficulty accessing the second floor.

Continued on Page 12

Could a new track not be constructed elsewhere in town?

Here we go again! In the article “Parks Committee gets Update on plans for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park (RTT May 24, 2023)”, Councillor Peter Courtney indicated he is part of a committee looking to fundraise for a new track at Centennial Park. My recollection was that a group was to be organized to fundraise for a new track but not necessarily at Centennial.

In addition, since the former S. Ralph McCurdy location is now owned by the Greater Essex County School Board, the article states that any new track would have to be repositioned on the site. When did town council approve a new track for the little space that remains of our former park? Do the previously expressed concerns of area residents continue to be ignored?

If fundraising for this venture is successful, could a new track not be constructed elsewhere in town?

For example, the Libro Centre has lots of space and parking. As an alternative, could a track be built on property currently owned by the school board? I am quite sure that area elementary and secondary schools would be major users of any track that

is built.

On behalf of local residents, I implore both Amherstburg Administration and Town Council to retain the remainder of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park as green space.

Please do not squander away what is left of this valuable asset.

—Larry Foley Amherstburg

Strong leaders needed to commit to identifying and removing barriers

The week that initially was National Access Awareness Week in 1988 became National AccessAbility Week in 2017, not Accessibility as stated in the article.

Deputy Mayor Gibb is quoted as saying, “it is also an opportunity to reflect on ongoing efforts to become a better, more accessible and more inclusive Canada.”

I reflected and concluded that a flag raising might be seen as tokenism.

The J. S. HELD 2021 facilities condition assessment of the town hall noted, “The building is non AODA compliant” and “the cost to convert the town hall to AODA compliant is $291,117.78.” If, as Deputy Mayor Gibb stated, “we strive to improve our infrastructure and services,” why has an AODA compliant town hall not been a priority? The $165,000 dog park

and the $170,000 Libro Trail over expenditure would have paid for an AODA compliant town hall.

Mayor Prue noted the Gordon House was not accessible and campaigned to ensure all town buildings are accessible to facilitate an open and inclusive municipality.

Last month, Mayor Prue referenced the AODA and said in this town, we have not brought it into force. Why not?

What about the narrow, uneven sidewalks with trees growing out of them and all kinds of obstacles Deputy Mayor Gibb mentioned during budget deliberations?

As this week ends it’s ironic that Open Air and its barriers begin, despite any denial. People with disabilities may be excluded, physically and socially, from equally participating in the community, a

preventable barrier. While there will be those who claim the 16 weekends of closed streets increase accessibility for people using wheelchairs, such positive attributes overshadow the need to commit to fixing sidewalks for year-round use and eliminating barriers.

Inclusive communities welcome all marginalized communities, not just some and only during festivals.

We need strong leaders to commit to the identification, prevention, and removal of barriers. When that is accomplished, and all barriers in Amherstburg are removed then there will be cause for celebration, but not until then.

—Linda Saxon Amherstburg

Hotel is the “wrong structure in the wrong place” according to resident

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Peddie. After a protracted and divisive battle, the Peddies have been given council approval to proceed with their Boutique Hotel at 256 Dalhousie Street in Amherstburg.

This is a tribute to their experience and deep pockets. It started with the purchase of the smallest property in

the 200 block of Dalhousie Street in Amherstburg, Ontario.

At first the Peddie’s applied for a demolition permit to remove the existing structure at 256 Dalhousie so that they could put a small hotel on the existing footprint.

After securing approval for this construction, they got ambitious. They

determined after the fact that their small hotel would not be profitable, so they had plans drawn up for a much larger structure that would require utilizing the entire property with zero setback, and would require a zoning variance.

They went back to council with their new proposal for a 15-room, boutique hotel with a ground floor restaurant and a bicycle rental business.

This was an interesting proposal since the 27-foot wide lot they wanted to construct this hotel on would most likely not even support a single family dwelling anywhere else in Amherstburg.

Despite numerous objections from neighbours, residents and three of town councillors, the variance was passed at the Amherstburg council meeting May 23.

Throughout the entire process there has been almost unanimous support for a hotel in Amherstburg.

Unfortunately this the wrong structure, in the wrong place. Time will tell whether this council’s capitulation will haunt them in the future.

That’s my opinion.

—Bill Petruniak Amherstburg

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CWL holds Olde English High Tea Party

By Ron Giofu

The women of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of St. John the Baptist Church brought back one of its fundraisers on the weekend and, judging by the smiles, had a good time doing it.

The CWL of St. John The Baptist Church hosted its seventh Olde English High Tea Party last Saturday afternoon at the Columbus Community Hall in Amherstburg. Rose Beneteau, secretary with the local CWL chapter, said the Catholic Women’s League “is for God in Canada” and there are 70,000 CWLs operating strongly throughout Canada.

“We promote sisterhood, faith, social justice and service to all of God’s people,” said Beneteau.

The Olde English High Tea featured tea (of course), finger foods and desserts with many of the ticket holders coming dressed in fancy hats and dresses. There was also a silent auction as part of the event. The event made its return this year after a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We try to do it as a fundraiser,” said Beneteau. “We asked for donations of $20 and we donate to local charities in town.”

The CWL St. John the Baptist Parish has approximately 76 members, she added, with roughly 110 coming to the high tea. Beneteau stated the tea was

Columbus Community Hall in Amherstburg.

open to all, including non-members, and was a nondenominational event.

Beneteau said that nationally, the Catholic Women’s League help lobby government on bills they would like to see enacted. She said the CWL looks to work with government so they have input and have a voice on issues that matter to them.

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is also another priority for the Catholic Women’s League, Beneteau indicated.

The CWL St. John the Baptist Parish chapter meets monthly though members normally take the summer months off.

Ribs & Ragtime returns this Saturday evening

Special to the RTT

A local museum is hosting one of its popular fundraisers this Saturday evening.

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum will host its annual “Ribs & Ragtime” outdoor garden party fundraiser on the grounds of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, located at 277 King St. The outdoor event runs from 4-8 p.m.

According to a news release sent by Amherstburg Freedom Museum curator Mary-Katherine Whelan, this is the 12th year for their annual garden party barbeque fundraiser, and she pointed out it is on the grounds of one of Amherstburg’s most significant historical sites.

This year’s “Ribs & Ragtime” fundraiser features special musical guests Six Degrees!

The fundraiser will be catered by the Car Barn, featuring a meal of both Broaster chicken and ribs, with coleslaw, roll and potatoes.

Tickets are limited and selling fast, the museum reports. The cost is $60 per person and tickets can be

Music Fest is Sunday at Co-An Park

Continued from Page 3

“We always thank our volunteers and sponsors,” said LeClair.

Admission is $5 per person, with gates opening at 10 a.m.

“Come on out and enjoy yourself,” said LeClair. “Come raise money for a cause that has hit everyone in Essex County and Kent County.”

GOD LOVES YOU

AND HAS PROVIDED FOR YOUR SALVATION THRU HIS SON JESUS CHRIST

Will you accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour & Lord today?

The Bible says: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead thou shalt be saved.

Romans 10:9

Pray this prayer from your heart today: Dear Jesus, I believe you died for my sins and rose again the third day. And I accept you now as my Lord and Saviour By believing this in my heart, I know that I am now saved and am a child of God. Thank you for hearing me, and your love for me. I know you will keep me by your spirit thru your word the Holy Bible.

Thank you, Amen.

Now go to a bible believing church

MOUNT BEULAH CHURCH

246 King St, Amherstburg

Sunday Service - 12 Noon

Bible Study Tuesday 6pm

Pastor Maynard Hurst 519-736-4110

purchased in advance online at https://randr2023. givesmart.com. Whelan stated tickets may also be purchased by cash or credit card at the museum’s reception desk or by phone by calling 519-736-5433.

“This year’s celebration is sponsored by the James H. Sutton Funeral Home and Gilligan’s Fire Grill Amherstburg. We have also received generous support from the Detroit Memorial Park Association,” she stated. “A big thank you to our sponsors and supporters, for helping make this event possible.”

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum encourages the public to keep their calendars open, as more events are planned in the coming weeks and months. The Amherstburg Freedom Museum will be celebrating Emancipation Day with a dinner and dance at the Hellenic Cultural Centre in Windsor Aug. 4 starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are $75. The celebration will continue Aug. 10 as the museum will host the annual Walter Perry Emancipation Golf Classic, featuring an 8 a.m. shotgun start at the Dominion Golf & Country Club in LaSalle. For more information, please contact the museum at 519-736-5433.

The Catholic Womens’ League from St. John the Baptist Parish presented their Olde English High Tea last Saturday afternoon at the

Memories of Boblo Island on display in Marsh Historical Collection exhibit

By Fred Groves

Growing up in Amherstburg, Jill Stoyanovich did what most teenagers did – she worked at Boblo Island.

On Saturday she visited the Marsh Collection’s display of the iconic amusement park that closed in 1991.

“I started when I was 13. We worked for the picnic group serving pop that was always covered with bees,” recalled Stoyanovich.

Stoyanovich then worked in the food department before her and her sister were two of the first girls working one of the popular games.

“For anyone growing up in Amherstburg, the majority of youth worked there. It was fun taking the ferry over. It was heartbreaking when it closed.”

In 1897 Detroit, Belle Isle and the Windsor Ferry Company signed a lease with Col. John Atkinson for 30 acres on what was then called Bois Blanc Island. A log cabin restaurant, bike paths and a ball diamond are what attracted the first visitors.

The island’s attractions grew and as owners, including the Browning Brothers who ran Boblo for 30 years beginning in 1949, added to the fun, it was bankruptcy that saw everything come to an end after 96 memorable years.

“A lot of us former staff have mixed emotions,” said Stoyanovich as she viewed the many displays at the Marsh Collection exhibition.

Part of Amherstburg’s first Open Air Weekend, the Marsh Historical Collection spent a considerable amount of time and effort to offer visitors a look back at the Boblo Island Amusement Park. The display included a large scale model ferry boat that brought thousands down the river from Detroit and across from the dock, that still stands, in Amherstburg.

“People love Boblo and we want to get more to come to the Marsh Collection. This exhibit is about nostalgia,” said Meg Reiner, collections co-ordinator with the local historic organization.

The early years of the park saw C.E. Park take the first admission ticket in 1898. He would later become Boblo Island’s superintendent. Three years later the St. Andrew Society picnic held its first event and drew 2,000 people. By 1977, numbers for that swelled to 14,000.

No doubt many of them were transported on either the Columbia steamer that was built in 1902 at the Wyandotte Yard in Detroit or its sister ship, the Ste. Claire.

Now a privately owned residential island, Boblo will always be remembered for the rides, games, good food, train rides and special attractions.

“A lot of people don’t know much about the island beyond that (1991 closure),” explained Kara Folkeringa. “We (her and Reiner) are too young to have known about it but it has been an adventure.”

The fun part for those who are part of the Marsh Collection was hearing the stories that go along with

the historic information. Folkeringa showed off an old program, souvenir cup and what seemed to be a pill bottle that someone had brought in.

One of the more interesting stories about the island included August 1972 when the ‘Rotten Seven’, seven baboons from the zoo escaped but were quickly captured.

While Boblo Island’s days of being an amusement park have faded, there are bits of pieces including several remaining buildings and the historic lighthouse and block house that will hopefully never be erased.

Former Boblo Island dock once again draws the attention of Amherstburg town council

By Ron Giofu

The former Boblo dock on Front Road South has once again caught the attention of town council.

The dock continues to decay and town council sought answers on where things stand.

The issue has come before town council in the past with the municipality asking for solutions as it is

federally-owned property.

Councillor Peter Courtney asked CAO Valerie Critchley if there was any update on the “collapsing Boblo dock,” adding it is coming apart “by the day.”

Critchley said she’s been in touch with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and they had a report with options in it.

“The last update they gave me was they were going to do an internal

Book Review

The Song of Achilles

By: Madeline Miller

The Song of Achilles retells the story of the Greek hero, Achilles, from the perspective of his friend Patroclus. Madeline Miller creatively enhances the story of Homer’s Iliad, and while staying true to the Greek legend, she reveals the relationship of Patroclus and Achilles and how their friendship turned into romance. The Song of Achilles not only unveils the legends of Gods and Mortals in the Trojan War but also the heart and human side of it all, showing what one may do for the person they love.

Submitted by River Bookshop Staff - Bookseller Darrie-Ann

review on those options before they decided what they were going to be doing with it,” said Critchley. “Each option has a price tag attached to it.” Critchley said she would follow up with that federal department as it was at least a month since she had spoken with them.

Courtney asked if council direction was needed and Critchley said she

didn’t believe so since there has been a report done and a decision from the DFO awaits.

The CAO added she will do additional follow-up with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

The roof had previously been removed but the dock is damaged with it being twisted the further it goes out into the Detroit River.

Book Review

American Born Chinese

By: Gene Luen Yang

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang is an award-winning graphic novel about the immigrant experience from the perspective of young teens.

Originally released in 2006, this graphic novel is having a resurgence thanks to the upcoming Disney film adaptation.

An anthology of 3 different stories, American Born Chinese explores important topics like stereotyping, language barriers, and racial/cultural othering. Gene Luen Yang has a talent for using myth and legend to convey messages and make his culture accessible to readers of all backgrounds. This graphic novel is a must-read for teens and adults alike!

Submitted by River Bookshop Staff - Bookseller Lauren

Jill Stoyanovich stands with one of the Boblo Island displays last Saturday at the Marsh Historical Collection.

Kara Folkeringa of the Marsh Historical Collection shows some interesting artifacts. RTT Photos by Fred Groves

Survivor Day celebration held to reconnect cardiac arrest patients with EMS

By Ron Giofu

Twenty-five people that were saved by Essex-Windsor EMS, firefighters, police and other first responders were celebrated recently.

The stories of 25 survivors and the paramedics, ambulance communication officers, first responders and community members who gave them a second chance at life in 2022 gathered at the 10th Annual Survivor Day. Those who nearly passed away but were saved reconnected with those who saved them at what was often an emotional afternoon.

The event, which honours the survivors of trauma and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, is put on by EssexWindsor EMS and the Southwest Ontario Regional Base Hospital Program and was held at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts. Also recognized were 68 paramedics, 40 firefighters, 14 ambulance communications officers, ten members of the public, five students and three police officers. Two cases

involved the use of defibrillators that are accessible to the public, the County of Essex pointed out.

“Survivor Day reminds paramedics, their first-responder partners and the public how special it is to be part of saving a life,” said Essex-Windsor EMS Chief Bruce Krauter. “It is a chance for survivors to tell their stories and thank those who helped save them. Paramedics respond to some extremely challenging calls, and not every life can be saved. I am grateful to the Essex-Windsor EMS staff who organize Survivor Day to make it a meaningful and cherished memory for all involved.”

Krauter said each of the first ten Survivor Days were days of “hugs, tears and smiles” and got emotional himself when he noted it was his last as chief due to his pending retirement.

“Life can change in an instant,” said Krauter. “Together, we can turn that change into a positive one.”

Deputy Chief Slowomir Pulcer offered his thanks as well and if a person was unfortunately not saved, it wasn’t for

a lack of trying. He said sometimes “nature can take its course” but this was a day of celebration.

LaSalle Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata brought greetings from the County of Essex.

“We are here to celebrate life, success and dedication,” he said. “We are also here to ask why. You are the reason why.”

Akpata said it was not a job, but a calling, to be a first responder, noting he was once one himself as a police officer.

“Self-sacrifice is a virtue that fills this room,” said Akpata.

Of the 25 lives that were saved in 2022, Tom Boutros was one of them. He was at work training with a fellow staff member at a home in Amherstburg when he looked at his co-worker Rikki and verbalized “oh boy” before collapsing. Rikki ran to get help from co-worker Jason Caravaggio, with Caravaggio immediately starting CPR.

Paramedics, including Michele Taylor, Wayne Russelo, Keith Affleck and Barry Mannell, worked hard to re-establish the patient’s pulse and were successful. Boutros said he owes his life to Jason, Michele, and the team of paramedics. He wants his wife, Marina, to know that she has been his rock for a very long time and he appreciates all the sacrifices she has made to help him improve his health. He loves his two kids, Matthew and Hannah, and thanks

them for all their support and wants them to know that he loves them and Marina very much. Finally, he wants to thank Dominic from Cardiac Wellness Centre for keeping him on track and helping him get stronger. Despite a few setbacks, Boutros finds it hard to put into words how grateful he is to be alive and find closure today by meeting his life-savers.

Boutros said “I pretty much lost the whole day” and his stories are about what he has been told.

“I was training somebody with medications one minute, and then the next minute apparently I had gone down to the floor and my heart stopped,” Boutros told the media. “My co-workers contacted EMS, and Jason, my bystander, got down and started doing CPR.”

Boutros credited Caravaggio for his work as well as the paramedics and first responders. He is thankful for their efforts.

“They couldn’t have done what they did unless Jason was there to do what he did,” said Boutros. “I don’t know how to thank them.”

Boutros added “it means a lot” to be at an event like Survivors Day and hopes it gives him some closure, but noted he is still on a “rollercoaster” due to setbacks.

“I’m here, I’m breathing and I’m alive. There’s not much more you can be thankful for,” he said.

Tom Boutros (centre) was one of the cardiac arrest patients recognized at a recent Survivor Day event. Paramedics helping to save him included Barry Mannell, Wayne Russelo, Keith Affleck and Michele Taylor. In all, there were 25 cardiac arrest survivors recognized as well as those who helped save them.

Prom 2023

Prom season has once again returned and students dressed in their finest last Friday for photos. Most of the students in King’s Navy Yard Park were from North Star HIgh School but some students from E.J. Lajeunesse were also on hand for their special evening.

Hadyn Walker & Alicia Hawley

Lex Mason & Michael Blais

A large group of prom-goers in Navy Yard Park

Brayden Marlein, Jordan Moore

Gadeer Alrahamawi, Hailey Connor, Yakeen Alshimari, Kendra Lowe

Ellise Robson, Connor Capstick, Alora Swinton

Colin Hebert & Leanna DiGiovanni

David Syntak, Hunter Bridgen, Matthew Swyntak, Carson Desjardins

Lucas Fleming & Hailey Zimmerman

Leyla Geneturk & Massimo Facchin

Zackary Macumber, Sarah Pillon, Autumn Wilson, Alex Affleck, Willy Metcalfe

Christian Fletcher & Ruby Reynolds

Arta Giles & Carter Chang

Mya Foreman, Amina Orchard, Maddy Szewczuk

Dean Deschamps & Ayden Gauvin

Flag Day Ceremony held by Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157

By Ron Giofu

Veterans and Legion members were honoured once again by Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157.

The Amherstburg Legion held its annual Flag Dedication Ceremony Sunday morning at the Cenotaph in King’s Navy Yard Park. After a short march through the park to the Cenotaph, a wreath was laid in memory of veterans and Legion members who have died in the past year.

Legion executive members, Mayor Michael Prue, family members and others who attended the ceremony put a poppy onto the wreath.

“We will remember them,” stated Legion Br. 157 first vice president Don Nantais.

Nantais thanked all those who attended Sunday morning’s ceremony. He noted it was not only to remember those who passed away in the last year, but it was also a continued remembrance of all of those who served.

Another ceremony will be held at the Cenotaph in September, Nantais said, as a way to pay tribute to veterans and Legion members. That is in addition to Br. 157’s Remembrance Day service held every Nov. 11.

Members and/or veterans who passed away over the past year or so that had their names read aloud were William Briand, William Long, Dennis Purdie, Eugene Hasson, Dolly-Mae Rumble, Hazen Price, Dwight Jones, Gabrielle MacKinnon, Charles Goodchild, Marie-Joes Maure, Mel Hagarty, William James, Virginia Moore, Ed McCaffrey, Richard Girard, Roy Grant, Margaret Bebbington, Kristin Martin, John

“It is an honour and privilege to be here today,” Prue told the small crowd that assembled. “I want to salute the people of this branch for continuing the remembrance, not just on Remembrance Day but all of the days of the year.”

Bike rodeo held by local funeral home, safety tips taught to youth

Association of Windsor-Essex County, a barbecue presented in conjunction with Rob & Tina’s No Frills and Sobeys, a visit from Michelle Stein and her donkey Carlos from the organization “In the Spirit of Horses” and a demonstration from Eric Favot, who showed some bike tricks to the youth and adults in attendance. The event ran from 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Sunday.

Laub was pleased with how the bike rodeo went.

“It’s been good,” she said. “We have had a good turnout.”

The Optimist Club of Amherstburg also were on hand to assist with entertainment. Bright Child Montessori also assisted with the presentation of the event. Laub said all sponsors were thanked for their support. She added it was the third bike rodeo at Families First’s Amherstburg location, noting the chain’s “Because We Care” charitable arm presents such events and also helps local charities and causes in other ways such as printed materials and tickets. “We couldn’t have asked for a better day,” Laub added.

By Ron Giofu

An area funeral home saw their annual bicycle rodeo return for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. Families First Funeral Home brought back its bike rodeo last Sunday in the Sandwich St. S. funeral home’s parking lot. Kate Laub, a manager with Families First, said they teamed with several community partners to present the event, including the Amherstburg Fire Department and the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment as well as numerous local businesses and service groups.

“We want to try and do it annually,” said Laub, adding the last bike rodeo was in 2019.

Laub pointed out there were bicycle safety tips offered, bicycle and helmet raffles, face painting from Little Buddies Day Care, a visit from the Brain Injury

Mallett, Maryanne Brooker, Val DiPierdomenico, Paul Triolet, Daniel Hunt, Maureen Brazier, David Cudmore and Rev. John Burkhart.

Shawn Wilkie and Tim Girard pay their respects after pinning a poppy to a wreath at a Flag Dedication Ceremony Sunday morning (left). The Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 colour guard makes its way to the Cenotaph (right).

Tammy Brochert face paints Carlos the donkey, being held by Michelle Stein (above). Brennan Hunt goes through the bike course (right).

I am pleased to announce an update on the

WIDENING OF HIGHWAY 3

The Ontario government has awarded a contract to design, build and finance the widening of Highway 3 between Essex and Leamington.

Top youth photographers recognized as part of “Student Pix” exhibit

By Ron Giofu

Some of the area’s top youth photographers were recognized last weekend.

The prizes were awarded from the just-completed “Student Pix” exhibit at the Gibson Gallery. Trudy Dempsey, a member of the gallery’s board and exhibit committee, said the gallery has teamed with the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) for the past 18 years to present the exhibit.

“We’re very proud to support all of the youth photographers,” said Dempsey. “It’s unbelievable the work that is being done.”

Craig Guthrie, teacher consultant of computers, technology and 21st Century Skills for the GECDSB, said the work of the students was amazing and thanked the teachers who assist them.

“Every year, I’m pleased and amazed with the work that comes in,” said Guthrie.

Clara Howitt, superintendent of programs with the public board, added she was impressed with the creativity and innovation shown by the students. She recalled her own children being excited about taking part in the exhibit when they were in school.

Howitt added the exhibit helped with the students’ health and wellness, and also thanked teachers and parents.

Ali said he was experimenting with some techniques and decided to try swirling a Christmas light in the background.

“We noticed it made a pretty good background,” said Ali.

He called in his sister Bareeha and she was photographed by her brother.

Ali, a Grade 4 student at Forest Glade Public School, said he just started taking photos last year.

“I just do it for fun,” he said, adding it was the first time he entered any in an exhibit.

Winners were as follows:

PRIMARY BLACK AND WHITE

1. Zoey Vitale (Malden Central)

2. Ryder Lutz (Malden Central)

3. Owen Kidd (Malden Central)

PRIMARY COLOUR

1. Lennon Brush (Malden Central)

2. Tanner Savard (Malden Central)

3. Savannah McGuire (Malden Central)

The winning photographers in the “Student Pix” exhibit at the Gibson Gallery were recognized last Saturday (above). The winners included “Best in Show” photographer Aabis Ali, a Grade 4 student from Forest Glade Public School in Windsor (left).

PRIMARY DIGITALLY ENHANCED

1. Zoey Vitale (Malden Central)

2. Alveena Mostafa (Virtual)

3. Cooper Thrasher (Malden Central) JUNIOR BLACK AND WHITE

1. Aabis Ali (Forest Glade)

2. Fatimah Gul (Glenwood)

3. Ahyeon Yeo (Glenwood) JUNIOR COLOUR

1. Aabis Ali (Forest Glade)

2. Evan Taylor (Lakeshore Discovery)

3. Carter Veres (Essex) JUNIOR DIGITALLY ENHANCED

1. Ahyeon Yeo (Glenwood)

2. Mya Shuttleworth-Klein (Heatherington)

3. Fatimah Gul (Glenwood)

INTERMEDIATE BLACK AND WHITE

1. Justin Nguyen (Sandwich)

2. Namya Punjari (Dougall)

3. Meighen MacNeil (Sandwich)

Careless driving charge laid after crash

A 17-year-old Windsor male faces a careless driving charge after a two-vehicle accident on County Road 8, just east of Broderick Road. LaSalle police investigated the crash, stating the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment and the Amherstburg Fire Department were already on scene. The call came in last Tuesday (May 30) around 2:45 p.m. According to LaSalle police, the pickup truck was attempting to pass the other vehicle and allegedly clipped the front end of it as it tried to re-enter the laneway, causing the truck to lose control and end up on its roof. One driver suffered minor injuries as a result of the accident, police add.

INTERMEDIATE COLOUR

1. Harnoor Cheema (Lakeshore Discovery)

2. Asher Soucie (Anderdon)

3. Memphis Reed (Davis)

INTERMEDIATE DIGITALLY ENHANCED

1. Deklan Vlcek (Sandwich)

2. Hajra Bilal (Sandwich)

3. Elliott Sohler (Sandwich)

SENIOR BLACK AND WHITE

1. Uday Chanci (Sandwich)

2. Owen Coffey (Sandwich)

3. Alexandra Couvillion (Essex DHS) SENIOR COLOUR

1. Logan Allen (Sandwich)

2. Ashley Easton (Sandwich)

3. James Hopkins (Sandwich)

SENIOR DIGITALLY ENHANCED

1. Loryn Tremblay (Belle River)

2. Liem Moore (Belle River)

3. Piper Bradley (Kingsville) and Benjamin Green (Sandwich)

“Villanova Cup” chess tournament draws participants from WECDSB high schools

like to see it grow to where they could invite schools from the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) as well. He noted there is a chess championship for players from both boards at the elementary school level.

The hope is to make the “Villanova Cup” an annual event, said Bondy.

“We’ll see what the interest from other schools is and what the level of support is,” he said. “Another possibility is other schools run other tournaments as well. It could be a schedule of chess tournaments similar to athletics.”

There were eight players from St. Thomas of Villanova competing at the tournament.

Results were as follows:

Senior

Villanova Cup Champs - Holy Names

1st - Alex Oulette - Holy Names

By Ron Giofu

St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School matched its best chess players against others within the WindsorEssex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) recently.

The first-ever “Villanova Cup” was

held in the school’s gymnasium with chess players from eight WECDSB high schools coming to Villanova for the tournament. In all, there were 64 chess players testing their skills against one another.

“This is the high school chess championship for the Catholic school board,”

Park House celebrating milestone anniversary

Continued from Page 4

“It’s a beautiful space just to be in,” said Pouget-Papak.

The idea for the Indigenous heritage learning centre has been worked on since 2017 and will open to the public June 2. There will be no charge to enter that space, she said.

The Park House Museum will also offer assistance if someone wants to use their computer system to complete a free Indigenous course offered through the University of Alberta, she added.

“We’re here to help you with that,” said Pouget-Papak.

Being a non-profit museum, Pouget-Papak said it is a special milestone for them to hit 50 years as their level of funding is not always known.

“Any time you get to do something great for the community is icing on the cake,” Pouget-Papak added.

Pouget-Papak said recent funding has been provided through the FedDve Tourism Relief Fund and the Amherstburg Community Foundation (ACF). Tours were offered starting in January this year, the first time in ten years the Park House has offered tours in January. She added they

were busier than anticipated.

“We were so busy in those months with tours,” she said. “It was nice to see people take advantage of the quieter times.”

Field trips have also been coming through the Park House Museum with others coming in to buy from their antique shop.

For more information about the Park House Museum, visit www.parkhousemuseum.com or call 519-736-2511.

explained teacher Rob Bondy, one of the organizers of the tournament. “It is the first one we’ve ever run.”

Bondy explained that chess clubs from each of the WECDSB schools were invited to participate. Some schools sent four members while others had ten or more players.

“We were hoping to see how many kids they could bring,” he said. “The idea was to get them together and compete with each other within the school.”

Organizers “didn’t know what to expect” but were pleased with the turnout and hope the event grows over the years. Bondy indicated they would

2nd - Omar Fernandez-Rodriguez - Assumption

3rd - Arthur Rofukia - Cardinal Carter

Coaches Award - Zack Cartier - Brennan

Junior

Villanova Cup Champs - St. Anne’s

1st - Eric Johnson - St. Joseph’s

2nd - Ben Brazier - St. Anne’s

3rd - Emily Au - Holy Name

Coaches Award - Emma Borland - Villanova

Sponsored

Ages 4-14

Ages 4-14

Students from St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School joined others from the seven other area Catholic high schools in the “Villanova Cup” chess tournament recently. Members of LaSalle town council helped with opening ceremonies (above) before the players got down to business (left).

Wolves eliminated, Wildcats take second in slo-pitch playoffs

By Ron Giofu

The WECSSAA girls slo-pitch championship was a rematch of 2022 with a similar finish to last year as well.

The Kingsville Cavaliers defeated the Villanova Wildcats 6-3 in last Wednesday afternoon’s WECSSAA final at Co-An Park in McGregor. The

Wildcats advanced to the finals thanks to a 14-2 win over the Leamington Lions earlier in the day, also at Co-An Park.

Villanova had finished the 2023 WECSSAA girls slo-pitch regular season with a 6-2 record.

The North Star Wolves saw their season end a day earlier. They had

advanced to the double-knockout WECSSAA girls slo-pitch playoff tournament with an 8-7 win over the St. Joseph Lasers in a preliminary round game in McGregor May 23 but when the Wolves returned to Co-An Park a week later, they couldn’t find a way to win another game though they kept it close both times.

North Star would lose to L’Essor 15-14 in their first game of the day. The lost their second game 6-5 to the Cardinal Carter Cougars and that eliminated the Wolves from the playoffs.

The North Star Wolves had a 3-5 regular season in their inaugural year at the new Amherstburg public high school.

Track and field athletes qualify for provincial meet in Ottawa

By RTT Staff

Both North Star and St. Thomas Villanova high schools will be well represented at this year’s Ontario Federation of Schools Athletic Association (OFSAA) track and field championships that will be held later this week at the Terry Fox Athletic Facility in Ottawa.

At this past week’s west regional meet held in Cambridge, Villanova’s Kalman Chyz was the top performer from the two local schools as he won the senior boys javelin throw with a toss of 53.12 metres. Chyz was the SWOSSA and WECSSAA gold medalist.

Wildcats’ teammate distance runner Brendan Currie will also head to OFSAA in both the 3,000 and 1,500 meter races. In the 1,500 Currie was sixth at a time of 4:20.08 and in the longer 3,000 he was second at 9:16.32.

Villanova’s Ezra Hewitt will go to the provincial championships following a third place throw in the senior boys shot put at 14.47 metres. Going to OFSAA from Villanova as well are Olivia Douma with a sixth place finish in the novice girls triple jump at 10.31m and MacKenzie Doll was sixth in the novice girls 800m at 2:31.80.

Douma and Doll, along with Carly Bolton and Ava Singh were sixth at the regionals in the novice girls 4x100 relay at 54.45. The junior girls 4x100 relay team of Delia Caruso, Ella Hodgson Gray, Carys Thomas and Claire Northcott were second at 52.83 and head to OFSAA.

The WECSSAA slo-pitch championship was decided last Wednesday afternoon at Co-An Park in McGregor. The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats (left) took second place as they lost 6-3 in the championship game to the Kingsville Cavaliers (right). The North Star Wolves were knocked out of the double-elimination playoff tournament the previous day.

For the North Star Wolves, sprinter Declan Veldhuis is off to Ottawa for two events as he was fourth in the senior boys 400m at 50.12 and seventh in the 200m at 23.12.

Joining him will be Lily Mulder who was fourth in the senior girls 100m at 12.63.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

Queensmen Motorcycle Club donates to Miracle League of Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

The Queensmen Motorcycle Club were at the Miracle League of Amherstburg last Saturday and brought a donation with them.

Approximately 12 of the club’s members were on hand Saturday with others wanting to attend but unable due to other commitments. The motorcycle club made a $500 donation.

“We’re supportive of Miracle

League,” said Queensmen president Ray Desmarais. “We come out once-ayear and spend the day with them.”

In addition to presenting the cheque, Queensmen members helped act as volunteer “buddies” and Desmarais threw out the first pitch for the second of four games played last Saturday. Desmarais stated they regularly came out prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and were happy to return.

The money was collected through

Talent on display

fish fries, donations and through friends and family, he added.

Miracle League of Amherstburg board president Shawn Dufour said they were happy to receive the support.

In addition to the $500 donation this year, the Miracle League received a commitment of $350 donations in the next two years, Dufour added.

“They offered to come out, be buddies with the players and show them their bikes,” said Dufour.

Dufour added they are thankful to all volunteers, sponsors and donors.

“Without the sponsors, this wouldn’t happen,” he said.

The donation will be put towards the Miracle League of Amherstburg’s general operating expenses, which include the weekly hot dogs, water, equipment and other needs.

The spring season for the Miracle League of Amherstburg will conclude after the June 17 games.

The Queensmen Motorcycle Club made a $500 donation to the Miracle League of Amherstburg last Saturday morning. (Left photo) Miracle League president Shawn Dufour (far left) and Hunter the mascot accept the donation from Queensmen vice president John Valley (second from left) and president Ray Desmarais (far right). Desmarais throws out the first pitch (right photo).

North Star High School held a talent show where students put their singing, dancing and instrument playing skills on display. Afften Essenpreis sings as part of the show (left) while a band performance concludes the show.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

LaSalle Pride celebrates Pride Month

“When it was first painted, it was the first Rainbow Crosswalk at a Zehrs in Canada. More have followed suit,” said Drake.

On Saturday there was a barbecue, raffles and lots of information about partnering organizations Windsor Pride Community, Run For Rocky, TransWellness Ontario and Pride Fest.

LaSalle Proud encourages businesses, health care/service providers, organizations, congregations, schools, parents and neighbourhoods to help create a safe and welcoming community for LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer), individuals and their allies.

There was a very welcoming chalk drawing on the sidewalk at Zehrs in which the creator wrote, “Bob likes All, be Like Bob.”

“I’ve had no negative responses,” said Nancy Campa, the co-founder of Run For Rocky Legacy Project as she manned the booth outside the store.

Two local runners complete 100-mile race

By Ron Giofu

A pair of Amherstburg runners have completed FawR, a road race over 100 miles to complete.

For the second straight year, Don McArthur took part in FawR, which is described on its Facebook page as a “100+ mile, self-reliant, circumnavigation of Essex County on foot. This is a mass-journey run/walk intended to showcase our beautiful county in the most southern part of Canada. It also serves as an example that everyday people can do exceptional things.”

This year’s race was slightly shorter – 102 miles this year as opposed to 103.6 miles in 2022 – and he finished sixth in the “1-chunk” category. He ran the entire race within a 40-hour time period instead of spreading it out over eight days. His time was 31 hours, 28 minutes with his 2022 time being 39 hours, 44 minutes.

By Fred Groves

The Pathway to a Welcoming Community.

That is the motto of LaSalle Proud and one which was embraced with positivity Saturday as the Zehrs Store on Malden Road help promote and celebrate Pride Month.

“This is to celebrate the diversity in our town, workplaces and families,” said Brenda Bot Drake, a Zehrs employee.

Drake explained that this is the third year that the store has stepped up to celebrate Pride Month. Those who visit Zehrs in LaSalle have a constant reminder of LaSalle Proud as there is a Rainbow Crosswalk.

“People here have come to celebrate Pride and they come to support and to feel good about the community.”

Campa said that Windsor-Essex County was the first city in Ontario to have a self-standing agency for transgender in TransWellness Ontario and that every public and Catholic secondary school in the region has a Gay-Straight Alliance Club.

For more information on the LGBTQ organizations in Windsor/Essex contact Windsor Pride Community at www.windsorpride.com, Run for Rocky at www.runforrocky.com, TransWellnessOntario at www.transwellness.com and Pride Fest at www. pridefest.com

“It’s a little hard to walk,” McArthur admitted Monday. “If you are sitting down or laying down, it’s a new adventure to stand back up.”

McArthur and about 40 other runners started the race Saturday at 5 a.m. at the home of race organizer Casey Thivierge in Emeryville. Runners ran clockwise around the county and he arrived with fellow runner Eric Lawrie in downtown Amherstburg around 11:30 p.m.

After McArthur’s daughter Violet put out blankets for them on her mother’s lawn, they caught about a 45-minute nap before heading to LaSalle, where they were able to catch more sleep, and then to Windsor and Tecumseh before returning to Thivierge’s home.

McArthur attributes eating food not usually associated with running as a reason for his improved time. Food such as hamburgers, steak sandwiches and chocolate gave him and other runners the added energy they

needed. A late night stop at McDonald’s saw the young employees still make a couple of cheeseburgers for him and Lawrie.

Noting he only met Lawrie on their way to the race, McArthur said they became each others strength during the race.

“When I felt weak, he was strong. When he was weak, I was strong,” said McArthur. “I didn’t have that last year.”

As it turns out, both are County of Essex employees. McArthur is the manager of communications and organizational development while Lawrie, an Essex resident, is a paramedic with Essex-Windsor EMS. McArthur is also a town councillor.

McArthur credited “road angels” for their help. They helped with snacks and water to assist runners to keep going.

“If it wasn’t for them, no one could finish the race,” he said.

The Garage Gym was thanked, as they were holding an event near Colchester. When McArthur approached, they cheered, gave them food and let them get rest on a hot day.

“It brought tears to my eyes,” he said. “It’s something I’ll never forget.”

The FawR race “holds a special place in my heart,” he added, saying other than his 1,000 straight day of running a mile daily in July, he has no races planned in the interim.

Continued on Page 19

Nancy Campana, left; and Brenda Bot Drake at the Zehrs Store in LaSalle helped celebrate Pride Month last Saturday afternoon.

Photo by Fred Groves

Don McArthur runs down Dalhousie St. late Saturday night as part of the 102-mile FawR race.

Happy 90 th Birthday

REURINK

Happy

Mom, Dominic, Luca, Bub, Aria, Carter, Aunt Julie & Uncle Pip Sully, Sophie, Sam and Stanley

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

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

APT FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA

Vista 365-369 Dalhousie. Large, clean, quiet with security entrance. Laundry, patio or balcony, stainless steel appliances, parking. Centrally located to all amenities. Starting at $1395 utilities included. Call to view 519-995-1565.

YARD SALE

FRI. JUNE 9 & SAT. JUNE 10 AT 218 ARNAUD STREET from 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. items, vintage, ladies clothing.

WANTED TO BUY LOOKING TO BUY Older Gibson or Fender guitar. Call or text 519-567-4446.

PEST CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.

In Loving Memory of Luke edward adam

1933 - 2022

It has been a long year since you went away. You were my morning sun, you were my silver moon, you were the shining star that brightened my darkest hour. You were my whole world, you were my everything, you will forever remain in my heart.

Love, “Your Girl”

WED., JUNE 7 & THUR. JUNE 8

ACTIVE AGING EXPO - Being held at the Libro Centre, 3295 Meloche Road in Amherstburg. First day features recreation activities and demonstrations from 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m. and the second day features vendors and presentations from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Being presented by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) and the Town of Amherstburg. For info, call 519-736-5471 or 519-736-5712.

SATURDAY, JUNE 10

RIBS & RAGTIME - Presented at Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 277 King St. Entertainment is Six Degrees. Runs 4-8 p.m. Tickets $60, includes chicken and rib dinner. Tickets available at randr2023.givesmart.com. For info, call 519-7365433.

SUNDAY, JUNE 11

MCGREGOR MUSIC FESTIVAL - Held at CoAn Park, gates open at 10 a.m. $5 per person. Features eight local bands, car show, pie auction, raffles, door prizes and more! Bands include The All Nighters, Back 2 Back, C2C Entertainment,

FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2023 AUCTION PROGRAM

Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction or Possible Purchase

CONTACT: SWITZER’S AUCTION Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609

Email Us @ sales@switzersauction.com Visit Us @ www.switzersauction.com

WANTED NOTICE SUDOKU ANSWERS

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

NOTICE TO MEMBERSHIP OF THE CORPORATION COMMUNITY FUTURES ESSEX COUNTY will be holding its Annual General Meeting

Thursday, June 22nd, 2023

R.S.V.P. required by June 17th, 2023 Phone: 519-776-4611 Ext. 12#

In Loving Memory of BarB miLLer

February 27, 1948 - June 7, 2016 7 years have passed dear Barbara, Since you were called away; How well do I remember That sad and weary day. Suffering much, you murmured not, We watched you day by day; We prayed that your dear life, Would not be taken away. Sadly missed by Hank, Lynda & Family

GROOMS

Brand X, Exit 31, The Wellness Band, Lookin’ Back and Bad Moustache. Proceeds benefit the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation.

MONDAY, JUNE 19

BELLE VUE FUNDRAISER - Belle Vue

Conservancy hosting “New York, New York” dinner fundraiser at Artisan Grill, 269 Dalhousie St. in Amherstburg. Entertainment will feature Renée King-Jackson. Event runs from 6-9 p.m. with people to choose dinner entrées ranging from New York Strip Loin Steak, Salmon Cedar Plank, Pollo Al Carbon or a Shanghai Vegetable Bowl. Tickets are $125 and available by calling CursonPrue at 519-736-7586 or at the Artisan Grill.

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

ACS OPEN HOUSE - Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) hosting 50th anniversary open house from 1-3 p.m. at their offices, located within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. Ribbon cutting at 1:30 p.m. Come learn about the services offered by ACS. Light refreshments served. Tours available. For info, call 519-736-5471 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.

FRIDAY, JULY 7

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

ONGOING

FREE COMMUNITY GARDEN - Interested in a free community garden bed? Accessible and raised beds available. Bed comes with soil and water access. Please call Amherstburg Community Services at 519-736-5471 if interested.

YARD SALE DONATIONS WELCOME -

Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. is now accepting donations of good, clean, quality items for their annual huge two-weekend 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 Rd. (County Road 10). Must call first: 519-996-4800.

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. Starts Feb. 8 and will run every Wednesday from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.

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 519736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome.

BINGOS - K of C Hall in River Canard at 7 p.m. Dine-in BBQ first Friday of the month, call in advance for tickets – 519-734-8575.

GOLDEN AGE CLUB - The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at the Libro Recreation Centre is offering social activities five days a week. It costs $10 a year to join. There are over 160 members who have a lot of fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, and bridge and doing line dancing. We also have three special luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party each year. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Go to our website www. goldenagecentre.ca.

JUNIOR OPTIMIST INTERNATIONALLooking for youth in Grades 4-12 who are interested in giving back to the community and developing leadership skills. Contact Caitlin at 519-995-5289 or secretary@bryerswood.com.

ACS FOOD BANK - Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519736-5471 for assistance.

SUDOKU

SUDOKU ANSWERS

SCRAMBLE ANSWER GROOMS

Kicks & Giggles

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, things may not progress the way you want them to unless you become a little more persistent. Figure out how to walk the line to achieve your goals.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Music off the Back Porch

Music off the Back Porch held its June show behind the Park House Museum featuring Foxy Doe (above) - Sidney Doe and Adam Fox - as well as The Devilles (right). Next month’s show will be July 7 featuring Lauren, Lefty and Dave Wilson. The show starts at 6 p.m., weather permitting, and is free but donations are accepted. Bring your own lawn chairs.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

Safe Families hosting conference this Saturday

By Hailey Zimmerman

Safe Families Canada Windsor is holding a “Hope for the Journey” simulcast conference for all those interested in attending.

The conference will cover topics such as trauma, and how it affects people (yourself as a person), as well as how to reach out to a trauma victim to help them process information, make decisions and more.

The conference will also cover Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), which is a care model designed to help meet relational and developmental needs of children impacted by trauma by considering the whole child, their brain, biology, behavior, body and belief. The three TBRI principles are Connecting, Empowering and Correcting. That being said, the care model also offers practical tools and insight to help children reach their full potential and build trust, as well as healthy relationships.

For $50, the meeting will include the conference workbook, the breakfast in the morning, snacks throughout the day, and a catered lunch. The conference will last from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.. Anyone who works with children is encouraged to attend the event. The goal is to properly train people on how to reach and help children who have been traumatized. The environment of the conference will be relaxed, with everybody sitting at tables so they can comfortably take notes with their choice of beverages (coffee, tea, water, etc).

Safe Families Canada organized the conference for everyone. They are an international, multi-site volunteer movement that gives hope and support

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Taurus, many things are going right with your life. But now it’s time to get a handle on your love life. You may have to put in some extra effort, especially this week.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, keep things on the lighter side when conversing with coworkers this week. Now is not the time to delve into controversial discussions in the workplace.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, as you try to become more organized, try not to get too overwhelmed by the scope of the task at hand. Tackle one thing at a time and keep making progress.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, situations may seem like they are a matter of life or death this week, but there’s a good chance you’re just being overly dramatic. Try to go with the flow.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Emotions are running wild and you’re worried about what others think of you, Virgo. Embrace a point of view that relies more on the rational than the emotional.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

to families in distress, strengthening the community safety net for at-risk families. The Safe Families WindsorEssex branch launched March 2019, and has continued to grow and broaden their helping hands.

“SFC’s aim is to facilitate a partnership relationship between volunteers and parents, in which the volunteer mentor becomes a kind of ‘extended family.’ Families should have access to help where they are, when needed and in non-stigmatizing ways. Safe Families provides ‘Host Homes’ where children can stay safely while their parents work through their crisis (rehab, mental health support, homelessness, etc.).

Not all families are in need of hosting, so those families are provided with a ‘Family Friend,’ someone to provide support, help connect them to needed community resources, to encourage them, help with goal setting, etc. All these roles are volunteer positions and trained and supported by Safe Families staff,” says Joanne Fear, regional manager of Safe Families Windsor-Essex.

Safe Families Canada strives to meet three objectives: Family Support and Stabilization, Child Welfare Deflection and Child Abuse Prevention. This conference can help the three objectives to be met, ever so slightly.

The event will take place this Saturday at Heritage Park Alliance Church at 2501 Concession Road 6. Anyone interested in the Safe Families Simulcast conference is encouraged to find more information at https:// www.eventbrite.ca/e/hope-for-thejourney-tbri-conference-simulcasttickets-620291226757, or contact windsor@safefamilies.ca

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to cats.

Libra, after a few stops and starts, you and your romantic partner are on quite a roll. Enjoy that you both are in tune and aspiring toward shared goals.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, it’s possible you feel blocked on all sides regarding your employment. While you can’t get ahead right now, there are some opportunities coming.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Be careful about speaking before thinking through your words, Sagittarius. Knee-jerk responses can have unexpected consequences. Take time to form your opinion.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

This week is bound to be pretty intense, Capricorn. But you’ll find a way to skirt through it relatively unscathed. Rely on a few friends as sounding boards.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, try not to cut off channels of communication with loved ones as you deal with a few difficult issues. Others are willing to step up and help as needed.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, others will not always see the world the way you do. Interactions this week can be a little stilted or even frustrating.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JUNE 4 - Angelina Jolie, Actress (48)

JUNE 5 - Mark Wahlberg, Actor (52)

JUNE 6 - Drew McIntyre, Wrestler (38)

JUNE 7 - Emily Ratajkowski, Model (32)

JUNE 8 - Griffin Dunne, Actor (68)

JUNE 9 - Michael J. Fox, Actor (62)

JUNE 10 - Kate Upton, Model (31)

Grade 9 Day at North Star High School

Relay for Life returns

Continued from Page 1

“Cancer is not something you do alone,” he said. “Cancer is something you do with family, friends and all kinds of support. If you have good support, there is a high probability you will survive.”

Beltran encouraged people to “support the Canadian Cancer Society any way you can” and was happy to lend his support for Villanova’s Relay for Life.

Ally Raper, national senior specialist with Relay for Life Youth, told the students “we’re changing the face of cancer.” She called the work of the Villanova school community “remarkable” and said the Canadian Cancer Society and Relay for Life is “proud to work with you.”

“At the Canadian Cancer Society, our mission is to educate and inspire all Canadians to take control of cancer,” said Raper.

Funds raised will help support life-saving research, support and advocacy and awareness, she said.

McArthur, Mazuran run 100 miles

Continued from Page 16

Juraj Mazuran said his running partner Sam Denommee was a big help as she was four years ago when they first met. For Mazuran, it is the first year he completed the race in “1-chunk,” and fourth time he’s tried it. After completing the race, he went back out Monday to cheer “multi-chunkers” on, those being the ones taking multiple days.

“My feet are trashed. My legs are tired but not bad,” Mazuran said. “Mentally, I’m still processing everything. It’s a good feeling.”

Mazuran said he and Denommee decided to do it in one “chunk” this year and said he wouldn’t try again next year as he was running. In the days since, he has changed his mind and said he’ll definitely be back.

Mazuran completed the race in 38 hours and 37 minutes. He said injuries and other responsibilities hampered his training.

Mazuran started running in 2019 and through running challenges at work. He added it was hot while running and fluid intake was key. Even with a breeze at points, runners sweated a lot during the 102-mile race.

“The main thing was to drink a lot of water and fluids even if you’re not thirsty,” he said. “When the chance for shade comes, take it.”

Mazuran thanked his family for their support. Accomplishing the race in “1-chunk” is something no one can take away from him, pointing out it is four marathons back-to-back.

“I earned it,” said Mazuran.

Mazuran is contemplating two more races before next year’s FawR, one in Tennessee and the other in Indiana.

Like McArthur, Mazuran thanked the “road angels.” He remarked there are few stores open at 3 a.m. on the stretch of County Road 20 from Holiday Beach to downtown Amherstburg so the “road angels” coming by with snacks, drinks and encouragement was appreciated.

Residents who were not part of the group put out coolers and chairs and allowed runners to rest when needed along the route, he added.

“They do it out of the kindness of their hearts,” he said. “Without them I don’t even want to fathom how much more difficult it would be.”

Grade 9 Day was held last Wednesday at North Star High School. The event has been traditionally presented in the fall but delays in completing the new gym caused it to be pushed back until the spring. Teacher Lisa Voakes said it worked well because the students already knew each other and built friendships. The Grade 9 students were divided into six teams with different colours used to differentiate the teams. Games were played both outside and in the gymnasium. The winning team received bragging rights and were the first team served fresh hamburgers and buns from the school cafeteria. The whole school will be participating in games and activities today (June 7).

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU