River Town Times March 8, 2023

Maple Syrup Festival expands to Holiday Beach

By Fred Groves

There was lots to do this year at the annual Maple Festival hosted by the Essex and Regional Conservation Authority.

In celebration of its 50th year, ERCA decided to expand the annual event to two locations. John R. Park Homestead has always been one of the places where families can go for some outdoor fun but this year, Holiday Beach Conservation Area in Amherstburg also had the activities to enjoy.

“This world is starting to return to normal so we decided to expand to a second site,” explained Danielle Breault-Stuebing, ERCA’s Director of Communication and Outreach.

Friday’s bad weather left the grounds at Holiday Beach a little wet and muddy but volunteers were on

hand to make sure those of all ages had a chance to sample what a Maple Festival is all about.

“It is flowing like crazy,” said Breault-Stuebing of the sap running out of silver maple trees. “We haven’t tapped at Holiday Beach before.”

She explained that it takes about 40 units of sap to make one unit of the sweet, delicious maple syrup. One of the activities that those who visited could see was the actual evaporator, heated with wood that boiled down the sap to make the syrup.

Breault-Stuebing said that at John R. Park Homestead where the festival has been celebrated for about 30 years, Indigenous and Pioneer methods of converting sap to syrup was shown and this year they wanted to showcase another method.

The festival runs for three straight weekends in March at both places and Breault-Stuebing is glad

that a second location is now offered as there was pressure being put on the historic buildings at John R. Park Homestead. This year’s event she said was possible, in part, by contributions from the federal government.

Highlighting the weekend at Holiday Beach was the themed Lumber Jack Games in which participants could throw axes, courtesy of Bad Axe Throwing, dress in costumes and even roll logs like in the pioneer days.

“We created Family Lumberjack Days so all members of a family can get involved.”

There were horse-drawn carriage rides on Saturday and of course, lots and lots of maple sugar treats.

For more information on the festival and to download the Maple Trail pass, visit www.essexregionconservation.ca/maple.

The Maple Syrup Festival was held at John R. Park Homestead and Holiday Beach Conservation Area over the weekend. Photos were from Holiday Beach. The event runs the next two weekends as well.

PHOTO AT LEFT SUBMITTED, CENTRE AND RIGHT PHOTOS BY FRED GROVES

Turf field to stay inside the Libro Centre after budget item eliminated

By Ron Giofu

The turf field is staying at the Libro Centre though administration says their budget request was more than just about the turf.

As part of budget deliberations last Tuesday, town council unanimously approved striking $75,000 from the budget relating to the turf at the indoor facility at the Libro Centre. Councillor Molly Allaire declared a conflict of interest as she is involved with one of the user groups.

“We’ve got more e-mails on this than on anything in my five years on council,” said Councillor Don McArthur.

McArthur said he was of the understanding the report left out some “crucial context” and wanted a further explanation.

“There’s a whole bunch of things we don’t know and this is supposed to get us some answers so we can make informed decisions. This isn’t just about the turf,” he said.

Deputy CAO Melissa Osborne said the study would be an “exhaustive understanding” of the facility with some functionality limited in certain areas such as the walking track and components reaching end of life. She acknowledged the demands the town is facing for space as well as the turf will need replacing as it ages.

“The funding was thought to take a look at the Libro Centre as a whole inclusive of those items without presupposing what the outcome might be. Some things that might be considered would be do you replace the outdoor turf and dome it in order to preserve the indoor turf as well as the outdoor one which then lends itself

to converting the indoor one with the walking track into something else,” said Osborne.

Osborne added the report would have shown if there is a better way to reconfigure resources rather than look at groups needs one at a time.

Baillargeon added they were seeking a plan to assess spatial needs. She said they know of issues with the outdoor football and baseball fields, including lighting too close to the field and not enough distance between the backstop and home plate.

“There’s a lot of things at play here and we’re looking to maximize the use of Libro Centre, look at user groups across the board to try and accommodate as many as possible within the space and within the facilities that we have,” said Baillargeon.

There is a need for a plan in place when assets are due for replacement and the town needs to work with user groups to see what is required, she added.

Councillor Peter Courtney said he thought a spatial analysis would be done by a consultant the town already engaged for another project and wondered why another consultant was required. Baillargeon said there is a lot they could look at amalgamating projects.

Courtney believed the town has to “move harder” on joint use agreements with local school boards. He said he is not interested in spending the $75,000 but rather tie the spatial needs study at the Libro Centre into projects.

CAO Valerie Critchley said the consultant proposed in the Libro Centre study would have come from an architectural background and comes in to study how much

space is needed per job “and how do you fit those things into a configuration.”

Councillor Diane Pouget made the motion and McArthur supported it. McArthur said “I want to keep the turf 100 per cent” but wanted to know how the town should decide where to put its money on recreationally.

Baillargeon stated recreation staff will consult with user groups and be thorough with their outreach. That strategy will also come into play when discussing further phases of plans at the Libro Centre. She said they can do much of that in-house and set up meetings and surveys to find out what is requested in the community.

The town has “to make some strategic decisions,” she added, while looking at demographics and the Official Plan. That will give the town a better feel on what is needed in each park, she noted.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb also supported Pouget’s motion but added “I need to see a plan of what we’re doing with our parks and with our Libro Centre.” He added “we’re all over the map with what we want to do.” “I’m going to need to see some sort of consolidated plan going forward before we can start throwing money at our parks and recreation facilities,” said Gibb.

Courtney added there are plans in place for facilities like H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and Jack Purdie Park and there is a Libro Centre secondary plan that will be modified. He said infrastructure needs to be put back because residents have lost a lot of recreational amenities.

Mayor Michael Prue also supported the motion. “People have spoken loudly and clearly,” he said.

CBC show “Still Standing” to film in Amherstburg later this month

By Ron Giofu

The CBC show “Still Standing” is coming to Amherstburg.

Hosted by comedian Jonny Harris, the show will be filming in Amherstburg March 19-23. According to producer Dave Kerr, the filming will be for the show’s ninth season. He believes it will air sometime in late 2023 or early 2024. With scheduling in the CBC’s hands, Kerr added people should “stay tuned” as for when exactly the episode will air.

Residents will likely be able to see the crew in action, Kerr indicated.

“Now that we are in our ninth season, the Still Standing team is pretty experienced so we can cover a lot of ground quickly while not getting in the way,” he said.

“Nevertheless, it’s hard to miss us, you’ll no doubt catch glimpses of our camera team getting shots of the community.”

“Kerr stated they are still working on who they will be speaking with, but indicated local residents are key to the filming of each episode.

“We can’t make our show without the help of locals, it simply wouldn’t be possible. Every episode of Still Standing involves countless shots of everyday locals doing what they normally do, whether that’s simply walking the dog or scooping a cone of ice cream,” said Kerr. “All of that important content comes from locals who, out of the goodness of their heart, said ‘yes’ when we asked if they wouldn’t mind playing catch with their puppy just a tiny, little bit longer. There are countless little favours like that behind

every episode.”

Kerr added the town’s “vibrancy, history and uniqueness” made Amherstburg “simply too good to pass up.”

“Not only is it home to a former islandbased amusement park, it is also a place of incredible historical significance in terms of the Underground Railroad and Fort Malden. It’s a beautiful town with a great story and a population of locals that are passionate about the community,” he said.

Continued on Page 3

Essex County council releases 2022 remuneration report

By Ron Giofu

The County of Essex has released its remuneration report for 2022.

Both current and former members of county council totals are included, though last term’s council members had their earnings stopped when the term ended in November. Those who continued on were paid for the full year while newcomers – who joined county council officially in December - also made the list. There are eight new members of county council this term.

Remuneration counts the county council member’s salary, per diem, conference expenditures, mileage and other associated expenditures.

Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara, last term’s warden, had a total remuneration amount of $113,360.60. Leamington Mayor and current warden Hilda MacDonald saw her total remuneration figure be reported at $20,600.99.

Tecumseh Deputy Mayor and current deputy warden Joe Bachetti’s total remuneration was $19,884.14 while Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, who spent the bulk of last year as the town’s deputy mayor before winning the mayor’s chair, earned $17,770.54.

Former Lakeshore Mayor Tom Bain’s remuneration was $17,507.07 while former Kingsville Deputy Mayor Gord Queen’s was $17,360.76. Former Essex deputy mayor and mayor Richard Meloche had a total of $16,010.33. Leamington Deputy Mayor Larry Verbeke’s remuneration was $14,624.34.

Former Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo’s total remuneration from the county was $14,396.27, while former deputy warden and Kingsville Mayor Nelson

Santos’ total was $13,702.62. Former LaSalle Mayor Marc Bondy’s remuneration total was $13,617.73 while current LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche – her town’s deputy mayor last term – was $12,873.34.

Steve Bjorkman, the former deputy mayor of Essex, earned $12,782.84 while former Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Leo Meloche’s total remuneration was $11,561.87. Kingsville Councillor Tony Gaffan, an alternate member of county council, had a 2022 total of $3,612.28.

Current Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue, who also served as an alternate when he was a councillor last term, had a remuneration total of $2,418.45 while former Essex Mayor Larry Snively’s remuneration total was $2,300.14 last year. LaSalle Councillor Mark Carrick, also a county council alternate member, had a 2022 total of $1,770.15.

Sherry Bondy, the current mayor of Essex, had her total remuneration reported as $1,425.63. Current Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb’s total was $1,171.25. Essex Councillor Morley Bowman, also an alternate, had a total of $1,165.46 while current LaSalle Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata’s total was $1,164.65.

Current Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers’ 2022 remuneration was $1,140.99 while Kingsville Deputy Mayor Kim DeYong’s total was $1,132.21. Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt’s remuneration was $1,132.21 while Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley’s total was $1,104.63.

In all, county councillor remuneration was $335,591.49. Essex County’s schedule of other remuneration totalled $12,554.07. That included other payments and others who had earnings or expenses paid by the county. Those included Deborah Alexander ($1,003.99), Terry Burns ($1,074.75), the City of Windsor ($1,755), Richard Colenutt ($120), Andrew Dowie ($659.16), Christine Easterbrook

TIN-ni-tus or tin-NYE-tus

Definition: The ringing, whooshing, or buzzing sound your brain creates to let you know there is damage in your auditory system

Facts related to Tinnitus:

• 1 in 22 people worldwide suffer from tinnitus

• 78% are over the age of 40

• 66% are male

• 72% report poor sleep due to tinnitus

• 73% report that tinnitus reduces their quality of life

Tinnitus can be effectively managed with the use of sound therapy, masking and behavioral therapy.

($2,080.14), Brad Frenette ($1,237.43), Brian Houston ($397.29), Rachel Jewell ($905.67), Diana Kirkbride ($1,049.28), Louise Masse ($120), Susan Morand ($120), Stephanie Olewski ($549.30), Tadeusz Polewski ($120), Ron Sutherland ($1,212.06) and Kim Verbeek ($150).

Work at Navy Yard Park extension to proceed, fencing to stay up for a while

By Ron Giofu

The town has approved including $150,000 in the 2023 budget for the next phase of work at the former Duffy’s site.

The site, planned to be an extension of King’s Navy Yard Park, continues to be fenced off and the $150,000 would be to stabilize the shoreline including to hire a consultant to complete design and tender documents and drawings for rock revetment, steel sheet pile wall and tie backs, concrete cap, railings and onsite drainage.

A future $3 million is proposed for 2025 for construction work, pending approvals from upper levels of government.

The project has been delayed due to approvals being required before the public can access the site.

Councillor Molly Allaire wanted to know if any of the new positions hired during the operational budget could help offset some of the costs associated with work at the former Duffy’s site.

“This is a specialized process in terms of ministry approvals that we would require an engineer to oversee,” said director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Heidi Baillargeon.

Baillargeon said the town will be on board as well to guide the process.

Councillor Diane Pouget asked about timelines, noting the frustration people are feeling about the delay.

“Why is it taking the ministry so long? They were studying it last year and now you’re not expecting it not to move forward until the end of the summer?”

Pouget asked Baillargeon.

Baillargeon said the town is following the ministry process and there are two

processes the town has to follow. She said a report put forward had to do with approval from the Ministry of Environment for the actual environmental cleanup at the property. The second set of approvals is from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) around the shoreline stabilization process.

“We’re doing those processes concurrently so when the ministry gives us the final blessing to open up as safe parkland, we can do that executing the work at the same time. When the fences come down, the hope is the park will be ready to go. It will be greenspace,” said Baillargeon.

CAO Valerie Critchley said a second submission has been made to the province and there is a 16-week review period “which is their standard.” She said the town will track that and ask for assistance if there are opportunities to advance the project.

“Right now, we are working in their processes as best they can,” she said.

Mayor Michael Prue said the previous council did ask that the work at the site

“Still Standing” comes to town this month

Continued on Page 2

As for where they will be filming, Kerr quipped it “might be easier to say where we won’t be filming.”

“Capturing the entirety of a town like Amherstburg requires us to be just about everywhere in town,” he added.

People can watch new episodes

Season 8 of Still Standing on CBC and CBC GEM.

This week is the season finale New Richmond, Quebec, Kerr pointed out. Still Standing airs Wednesday nights at 8 p.m.

According to the CBC’s website,

“Still Standing follows Canadian comedian Jonny Harris as he sets off across the country once more, veering off the main highway to discover the hidden comedy in Canada’s far-flung small towns. Each week, Jonny takes a hilarious and heart-warming journey to find humour in the unlikeliest of places — small towns on the ropes. After immersing himself in the lives of local characters and unearthing the tall tales in these tiny towns, Jonny delivers a rousing original stand-up comedy routine — a toast, not a roast — for the whole community.”

Two arrested in connection to “grandparent scams”

The Windsor Police Service’s Financial Crimes Unit has arrested two suspects in connection to two grandparent scams in Windsor and Amherstburg.

The Windsor Police Services states it received a call from a concerned Windsor citizen March 1 advising that she believed she had just been contacted by a scammer. The suspect allegedly claimed to be her grandson and stated that he needed $9,300 in cash for bail after being arrested.

Investigators coordinated with the citizen and were able to intercept the two suspects as they approached her house to collect the cash.

Police arrested two males and subsequently located packages containing

money from two previous alleged scams. Through investigation, police learned that one of the packages recovered is from a victim in Amherstburg.

According to police, a 19-year-old man from Windsor, and a 22-year-old man from Tecumseh, are each charged with two counts of fraud over $5,000.

The Windsor Police Service continues to advise community members to be vigilant when receiving phone calls from people claiming to be a relative.

Police add this is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the Financial Crimes Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4330.

The public can also contact Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.

move quicker while Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said that issue was raised with the province as well.

The $3 million planned for 2025 would stabilize the shoreline, grading and earthworks for the shoreline, said Baillargeon. Critchley said a report was brought to the previous council regarding work Amico was doing next to the town-owned shoreline but town council wanted to tender the work themselves.

Critchley added MoE approval is not anticipated until late this year or early next year and construction is likely the following year due to regulations on when work can take place in the water.

Councillor Don McArthur called it “a vital project” and the town should seize opportunities to advance the project.

“It is important to manage expectations here,” said McArthur.

McArthur said residents want the property opened up and wanted to know “what $3 million gets us?” Baillargeon said the shoreline would be upgraded and walkways installed.

“We will stretch that dollar as far as we can go in terms of developing that

plan,” said Baillargeon, adding cost of the full plan has probably doubled due to construction costs.

The $3 million cost will also provide electrical infrastructure and railings.

“Assuming everything goes according to this plan, when can someone have a picnic lunch on the grass?” asked McArthur.

Baillargeon said they hope to move forward with construction drawings and Critchley estimated construction would start in 2024 and be completed in 2025. Baillargeon said some work could start the latter part of this year but noted the entire site is under the ministry’s guidance and approval.

Pouget said she was on council when the land was purchased and the belief was that it would be a quicker process.

“It’ll be about eight years before we can use this land,” she said.

Allaire said “everyone is in agreement” that they want to get the Duffy’s project completed. Osborne said there is a report coming to town council on a submission Amherstburg put forward to the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF) and that it also identifies a path to move the $3 million in construction work from 2025 to 2024 “should it become necessary.”

If the DMAF decision is known, a report would indicate how the project could proceed and how to reallocate the funding.

(Editor’s Note: This is a story from the recent budget deliberations. While there was mention of this issue in the budget story in the March 1 edition, we wanted to include the full discussion this week.)

Town council will include $150,000 in the 2023 budget for a consultant to complete design and tender documents related to the shoreline across the Navy Yard Park extension. Photo by Hailey Zimmerman

A few random thoughts...

A few random thoughts this week:

•I could have sworn I was invited to cover an assignment last Friday night.

Thanks to my friend and co-worker Laura D’Alessandro, my brother Brian and a bunch of other wellmeaning folks, I ended up walking into a surprise 50th birthday party. The winter storm that hit the area Friday night kept a few people away, but I thank them also as I know it was only the weather that kept them from attending.

As of 6:30 p.m. that night, I texted Laura to see if the “assignment” was still on. I was told it was a group from her church coming to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission to make a donation and have a question-andanswer period with president Tim McAllister. She said it was.

When I got there and saw a “Happy 50th Birthday” banner on the door, I knew something was afoot. It caught me totally off-guard and words can’t express how thankful and appreciative I was for the gesture.

I am also thankful for the social media shoutouts and in-person handshakes I have received since then.

For the record, my actual birthday isn’t until March 13. While I’m not clamouring for additional attention, I just wanted to give people a headsup in case they see it pop up on their Facebook feeds. To keep it a surprise, the party was held in advance so I wouldn’t want people to think I’m milking it and trying to turn it into an extended birthday celebration.

•The debate around Open Air Weekends should be coming to a close soon. A report is due back to council on options on how to present the event and if any changes will be implemented. It is a divisive debate with some strongly advocating for it to continue as it is while others would like to see changes made.

I have heard both sides of the argument but I am hopeful whatever decision is made by town council, it is the one they stick with for a while.

That’s not to say other issues might not need a resolution in future years, but the format of Open Air should be something that doesn’t become a yearly hot button issue.

Make a decision, stick with the

Arts for Parks co-organizer expresses thanks for support

decision and solve whatever issues come up as a result of the decision. Allow businesses and residents to plan for whatever decision is made, whether that be to stick with the status quo or to adapt to any alterations.

A group called “The Core” is putting up $20,000 to add to Open Air activities, so that is commendable. Those with concerns should be listened to also, and those should be addressed to the best of the town’s ability.

•An issue I found interesting during the budget deliberations was that of the Libro Centre, the turf field and how to best use the amenities there. I would love to see improvements made to some of the facilities, including the outdoor turf football/soccer fields and premier baseball diamond.

If I had my way, I’d like to see bleachers set up along the football/ soccer field similar to that of St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School or Essex District High School with light standards pushed back.

Somehow finding a way to expand the distance between home plate and the backstop at the baseball diamond is something I would also like to see, as I’m sure many others also would like to have happen.

All of this comes with a cost, of course, but it doesn’t hurt to at least put the ideas forward and see what comes of them.

•The last time I wrote something here, I included something about my shoes and the fact they were quickly disintegrating. Holes in the soles and other parts of the shoes had developed and the shoes were becoming quite problematic.

There were people who have been asking and checking my feet to see if I had new shoes.

For those of you who were wondering (and yes, there have been a few), I do have new shoes. I can safely walk outside in wet weather again.

These are just my thoughts, take them for what they’re worth.

On behalf of the Art for Parks committee, a big thank you to our sponsors. Gibb Insurance, Unifor Local 1959 and Burger 67.

Also, thank you to major donors including Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157, the Essex ATV club.

Thank you to all those that generously donated gifts, and those that donated art.

And of course, this didn’t happen without a great group of volunteers that hustled like crazy to make this event successful. We had a very

successful event. Money is still coming in.

We are still selling art. We are looking forward to hosting our next event – same cause, our parks, but a different type of event.

Special mention to the AMA Sportsman Club; they were so friendly and accommodating, they made our job so much easier.

Thank you all!

—Kurt Reffle Amherstburg

Taxes form basis for questioning come next election season

It’s time to file your 2022 tax return. Time to pull out all of your receipts and your 2022 property tax demand. Take a moment to write down on a separate sheet of paper the total amount of property taxes you paid in 2022.

I would itemize it by municipal levy (noting that this includes a capital reserve levy and a capital replacement levy), county levy and education levy.

Next, write down the things you feel were the advantages and disadvantages to living in Amherstburg. For example, parks, hotels, the downtown core, the street(s) in front of your home, recreational amenities, marina, housing, policing, economic

development etc. Next year do the same thing.

In four years there will be another municipal election. Pull this sheet out and take a look at the amount your taxes have increased and then ask yourself “What have I gotten for this additional cost”?

I would recommend using this document as part of your decision making process for the next election. This will also prepare you for questions you can ask any candidates that come to your door at election time.

—Sue Hudson Amherstburg

Residents offer their suggestion for Open Air Weekends format

Re: Open Air Weekends

Now that COVID-19 appears to be under control, we feel closing the streets every weekend for Open Air is excessive.

We know business in the core remain split on supporting it, and many of us who reside in the downtown area are not happy with the increased traffic and traffic noise it produces each weekend on our normally much

quieter streets (due to road closures and traffic being re-directed).

We are not opposed to Open Air Weekends, but perhaps every other weekend would suffice. That would make it fair for both sides of this divisive debate.

Respectfully,

—Joanne & Wayne Jackson Amherstburg

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Update to council given on retrofit of former ACS building

By Ron Giofu

Upgrades to the Amherstburg Community Hub and former ACS building have been approved by town council.

Council approved a motion for upgrades at the Amherstburg Community Hub and the former Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) building 179 Victoria St. S., the latter for a senior centre. Up to $100,000 from the sale of property at 320 Richmond St. to Arch Corporation will be used for immediate use at the hub while $140,000 ($94,000 from parks reserve and $49,000 from a parks development charges reserve) will retrofit 179 Richmond St.

Council voted unanimously on the latter motion last Tuesday morning as part of their budget deliberations.

Councillor Peter Courtney said staff “did an amazing job” creating the report.

“This was well thought out, well-constructed, solves a lot of problems and puts a lot of good things in place,” said Courtney. “I want to give kudos to staff on this report. I think it serves us well. It takes care of some significant costs at the hub and takes care of the ACS building, which has been a priority for our Golden Age Club because we’re running out of space at the Libro Centre due to offices and stuff like that.”

Councillor Diane Pouget noted the costs to renovate 179 Victoria St. S. is estimated at $140,000 and asked about a comment in a report to reactivate the site in 2024. Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne said crews would take about one year to complete the work.

Pouget added she attended the site with CAO Valerie Critchley and Councillor Molly Allaire and “we were told everything was in very good shape and that it would just take some face work like painting etc.” She questioned what the other work was.

Critchley said that tour was when the town was considering renting office space to the Ontario Clean WaterAgency (OCWA) and keeping a portion for seniors programming.

“That would have meant leaving the office spaces in place as they were and OCWA was going to take that

side of the building to do what they needed to do to spiff them up for office use,” said Critchley.

Critchley added if it were to entirely be converted into a seniors facility, the interior walls would come down and flooring would be replaced.

“That is a very small amount for a retrofit of a building,” said Mayor Michael Prue.

Pouget said she wasn’t concerned so much with the cost, but the timing.

“People put up houses in three months. I just don’t understand,” she said.

Pouget added if the building could be rented out, with Osborne stating the building would become a community centre as well as a place for seniors to gather. Critchley said they would put the work out for tender, based on the procurement policy, and said they would “do it as quickly as possible” based on the selection of tradespeople.

Councillor Linden Crain asked if the Golden Age Club would pay for any of the retrofit work and if there were any user fees paid by the group. The CAO said the club would not pay for any retrofitting work and do not pay user fees at the moment. She said she’s understanding there was a seniors grant funding leveraged when the Libro Centre was built.

Osborne said a business model will be brought back on the building.

Pouget added the town could get grants for the Libro Centre because the Golden Age Club moved there. She said the club traditionally asked for a grant and were given an in lieu donation. The club also donated to the town and contributed “a significant amount of money” to the arena. Osborne said the report would explore options as rental rates, what assets are available for community use and all issues surrounding the building.

Courtney asked about washrooms for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and tying it into the retrofits. Director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Heidi Baillargeon said administration is looking at all options. Courtney also suggested looking at partnering with other groups to reduce costs with Critchley saying the new economic development officer would look at partnerships and sponsorships.

Critchley said there is a need to have a plan in terms of sponsorships and donations with Osborne stating a defensible plan will help provide guiding principles council can use when deciding on sponsorship opportunities.

Mayor Michael Prue said the parking lot at 179 Victoria St. “is in pretty sad shape” and Baillargeon said the parking lot would be repaired.

“I think it’s a great idea,” said Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb. “I think it’s time to spend money on seniors. We’re spending a lot of money on youth but we know the seniors are our fastest growing demographic.”

Councillor Don McArthur said seniors will be able to use the 179 Victoria St. S. building, the hub across the street and eventually the long-term home.

“The opportunities for synergies there to take care of seniors and have robust programming are off the charts and unique to Amherstburg compared to other municipalities,” he said.

(Editor’s Note: This is a story from the budget deliberations held last week. While there was mention of this issue in the budget story in the March 1 River Town Times, we wanted to include the full discussion this week.)

Motor vehicle accident at Sandwich & Alma still under investigation by police

A motor vehicle collision at the intersection of Alma St. and Sandwich St. South is still under investigation, say Windsor police.

The two-car crash resulted in no serious injuries, they add.

If anyone has information, they can contact the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment at 519-736-8559.

Stunt driving

A 50-year-old male from Amherstburg was charged with stunt driving for allegedly travelling 46 km/h

over the limit on Front Road in LaSalle Feb. 27.

According to the LaSalle Police Service, school buses were dropping students off in the area at the time.

His licence is suspended for 30 days and vehicle impounded for 14 days, LaSalle police add.

Amherstburg town council will be spending $140,000 to retrofit the former ACS building/Amherstburg Cultural Centre building at 179 Victoria St. S. The plan is to have the Golden Age Club return there. RTT Photo by Hailey Zimmerman

Provincial Marine returns original Gordon House wallpaper to town’s tourism department

Kidd added: “Back in the day, wallpaper was used in specific rooms and not so much in others.”

Accepting the donation was manager of tourism and culture Anne Rota and tourism co-ordinator Sarah Van Grinsven. Van Grinsven said there is wallpaper upstairs at the Gordon House that replicates the original that was donated. She added there is wallpaper at the Duff-Baby House in Windsor that replicates Gordon House wallpaper as well.”

Kidd added the Provincial Marine is trying to strengthen ties with other historical organizations in Amherstburg, noting they are working closely with the Friends of Fort Malden and Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada. He said there is “a lot of history in Amherstburg” and wants the groups to communicate with each other to promote it more.

headquarters for Project H.M.S. Detroit.”

By Ron Giofu

A little piece of history returned to its original location last Friday morning. A piece of wallpaper that was in the Gordon House in the 1800s was returned to that historic building after being discovered recently by the Provincial Marine re-enactment unit. The Provincial Marine is based out of the Commissariat in King’s Navy Yard Park and discovered a framed

piece of wallpaper in their basement. On the back of the frame, it was written:

“In 1798, one of the grandest homes was built in Amherstburg by a Scottish merchant George Sharp. When it was sold to the third owner James Gordon, it became known as the Gordon House. It has been known as the Gordon House off and on for almost 200 years. In 1996 the Gordon House will be the new

Provincial Marine president Dale Kidd said they have no idea how they acquired the wallpaper, but they assume it was donated by an original member of the unit. He said there is no record of who donated it.

“It’s a piece of old, probably original, wallpaper,” said Kidd. “When we came across it, we thought it was important to return it to the Gordon House.”

The Provincial Marine plans to open the Commissariat more this summer through the use of a student employee.

“We certainly have a lot of ideas to move forward with,” said Kidd.

Rota said the town was grateful and appreciative to accept the donation from the Provincial Marine.

“Quite simply, it’s groups like the Provincial Marine that make Amherstburg a special place to live, work and play,” she said.

Rotary Club’s Easter Seals fish fry dinner in memory of Martin Breshamer coming this Friday

Special to the RTT

The Rotary Club of Amherstburg will be hosting its annual Easter Seals Dinner (Fish Fry) on Friday, March 10, 4:30-6:30 p.m., at Columbus Hall, corner of Richmond and Balaclava Streets.

The dinner funds opportunities for children and adults with physical disabilities and is named in honour of the late Martin Breshamer, Club past president, who created the dinner

locally. Martin was a quiet pillar of the community through his many past activities including Seagrams Plant Manager, chairman of United Way

and the McGivney Children’s Rehab Centre, board member of Park House Museum, organizer of the Windsor Symphony Christmas Concerts, fundraiser for St. John the Baptist Church Restoration Fund, helper of small business (Essex Community Future Development Corp.), organizer for many local projects, such as Rotary’s Town Clock.

The Rotary Club of Amherstburg is a vibrant part of the community through its many activities and

accomplishments, as in the past and upcoming are hockey games with NHL alumni stars, the Easter Seals Dinner, Beef in the Burg, Ribfest, Town Clock at foot of Richmond Street, paving stones in King’s Navy Yard Park parkette.

New Rotary Club members are always welcome.

For more information on the club or its events, call 519-736-5728 or e-mail the Rotary Club at rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com.

Packed house at Christ Anglican Church enjoys “Green Eggs and Ham”

By Ron Giofu

A packed house came to Christ Anglican Church on the weekend to enjoy some “Green Eggs and Ham.”

The Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) brought its “Family Concert

Series” to Amherstburg Saturday afternoon after two performances earlier in the day in Windsor.

Approximately 150 people attended the show, many of them children, as they enjoyed music based on the Dr. Seuss book.

The Provincial Marine donated a piece of original Gordon House wallpaper to the town’s tourism department last Friday. Front row: Christina Marchetti Middle row (from left): Russ Goddard, tourism co-ordinator Sarah Van Grinsven, Dave May (Provincial Marine Vice President), Dale Kidd (Provincial Marine President), Mark Feltoe. Back Row: Robert Budszioz

A closer look at the donated wallpaper.

Martin Breshamer

Conductor Francisco Hernandez Bolanos and co-host Jan Radford led the crowd through the 45-minute performance. Sopranos Erin Armstrong and Abigail Wearne also performed.

Monica Bunde, marketing director with the WSO, thanked not only the crowd for attending, but Christ Anglican Church for hosting.

The Windor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) performed “Green Eggs and Ham” Saturday at Christ Church (above). Sopranos Abigail Wearne and Erin Armstrong were part of the show (right).

Local schools welcome prospective new students at JK open houses

By Ron Giofu

Local elementary schools are in the midst of JK registration and used Feb. 23 as a way to open their doors to families.

Schools from the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board and the Greater Essex County District School Board held JK open houses. Michael Cusinato, principal of St. Joseph School in River Canard, said more and more families are coming out in person as COVID-19 restrictions have been relaxed. He said most families who come to the open houses sign their children up for junior kindergarten.

“It just reassures them,” he said of the JK open house.

St. Joseph School is a dual-track school, meaning

they offer French Immersion. Amherstburg Public School is the public board’s local school with that as well.

Cusinato said over 20 staff members came out to support the JK open house.

“They believe so much in our school,” he said.

Six classrooms were set up to show children and their parents and guardians what the children can expect next year. He added they also have a latchkey day care on site.

James Cowper, principal at Anderdon Public School, said there was an “excellent turnout” at their JK open house. He said he anticipated over 40 families that night.

“We’re going to hit our numbers tonight,” said Cowper.

More students could sign up during the year and possibly in the summer as well as Cowper noted the growth of the catchment area, including the Kingsbridge subdivision.

“Every face you see is extremely excited to be

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here,” he said. “You can tell how excited they are to be here.”

Not only was the kindergarten pod open at Anderdon, additional classrooms were open as well including the music room and gymnasium.

There were also students from North Star High School on hand at Anderdon Public School’s JK open house to show a link between elementary school and high school. The high school students – Grace DeThomasis, Ada Faber and Emma Osborne – are Anderdon Public School graduates.

“We put our best foot forward,” said Cowper. Cowper added not only is it to have the students visit, but also to show the parents what is there and to show coming to school is a continuation of learning and a positive experience.

“We consider ourselves partners with the parents in learning,” said Cowper.

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Owen Ferguson shows the activity he worked on during the JK open house at St. Joseph School in River Canard.

Anderdon Public School principal James Cowper greets Alek Bonifazi during the recent JK open house.

WECDSB director of education Emelda Byrne and local trustee Frank DiTomasso attended the Stella Maris JK open house. Submitted photo

“Celebration of Completion” held at North Star High School

By Ron Giofu

Roughly six months after it opened to staff and students, the public got their chance to view Amherstburg’s new public high school last week.

The Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) presented a “Celebration of Completion” last Wednesday night where the public was invited to take a look at the $24.3million North Star High School and see the programs that it offers. The school combined General Amherst High School and Western Secondary School at the new site, located at 330 Simcoe St. Scott Scantlebury, public relations officer with the GECDSB, said it was a chance for the public to see their tax dollars at work.

“A lot of work went into this building to make it as functional and economical as possible,” said Scantlebury.

Director of education Erin Kelly said the board was pleased to open the doors of the new school, let the public see it and welcome it to the community. Kelly also pointed out trustees Julia Burgess, Connie Buckler, Kim McKinley and student trustee Paige Hawkins were also on hand, the latter being a student at North Star High School.

“This has been a busy place since opening in September,” said Kelly.

Kelly thanked the board’s capital

By Fred Groves

works staff, the contractor and architect as well as everyone who had a hand in creating the new school.

“It’s not an easy job but they did it superbly,” she said.

North Star High School principal Melissa DeBruyne noted it was nice to reconnect with former students from General Amherst High School and Western Secondary School, as she was principal of the latter two schools as well. DeBruyne said she is proud that they offer different educational pathways for students in order to suit what the student needs.

“Whatever pathway you take is the pathway for you,” said DeBruyne.

DeBruyne also stacked up the shops and technical area of the school with any in the province, adding “it’s the staff and students that make this a great place.”

Lladaneyah Gayle, the school’s deputy prime minister, said her goal is to have a school that is positive, inclusive and welcoming and believes that is the case at North Star. She said student parliament was excited to welcome people to the school.

Mike and Ruxandra Juricic were pleased with what they saw.

“I’m very impressed,” said Mike. “It’s larger than I thought it was going to be.”

Mike believed a lot of thought has

gone into the school with Ruxandra adding she was impressed with some of the technical facilities, citing the example that morning announcements will come from the media classroom’s green room.

“It’s a fabulous upgrade,” she said of the building.

Norm Talbot said he attended General Amherst High School in the 1960’s and wanted to see the new facility.

“The equipment is very up-to-date,” he said.

Talbot added it is a very clean building and he and his wife have a grandchild attending the school.

“It’s beautiful,” said Lori Handsor. “I graduated from Amherst, both my husband and I.” Handsor said her daughter also graduated from General Amherst and that they will be sending future generations

to North Star.

“We love the name too,” said Handsor. Handsor added they like the different components of the building and also enjoyed the entertainment provided by the North Star band at the celebration. She said they live near the school and have had no issues with youth or traffic.

“We think it’s beautiful for the neighbourhood,” said Handsor.

Larry Hurst called the new school “phenomenal.”

“I can’t believe this school was this good,” he said.

Hurst said there is a big difference in technology and equipment, adding he was impressed with the shops and culinary area.

“I was curious. I wanted to come see it,” said Hurst. “When I heard it was going to be open (to the public), I made sure I came out.”

Bertrand returns home to debut new novel

Denise Betrand came home to Amherstburg last week and she brought with her a special gift – her first novel.

Reading from “Once Upon A Solar Time,” Bertrand, aka feather, was honest in explaining that it took her over 45 years to complete the self-published fantasy.

Now living in remote British Columbia she launched her book Thursday night at the River Bookshop not far from where she used to host poetry circles. She began writing “Once Upon A Solar Time” when she was 18 and living in her hometown Amherstburg.

“Who was I back then?,” she questioned of the beginning of the novel.

“Back than I wanted fame from it, now I don’t want fame.”

Bertrand is an international director, producer and writer of drama programs for youth. She lived in Asia for 14 years and no matter where she called home at the time, her book was always with her, usually in the back of a closet.

“It was there. It kept calling me. I took one night

and I read the whole thing and said there is something there.”

What was hidden among the pages was a story about two girls, Neighbour and Girlfriend, the two main characters of the novel who transform themselves and go on a journey to the Echoes of the Sun Community. Bertrand explained that there are actually two stories in the novel that are parallel and eventually become one.

A life-long poet, Bertrand included three poems in the novel and said that they actually help advance the story. There are also a couple of songs.

She did most of the writing when she was in her twenties and the final chapter was penned a year ago. Friesen Press did the printing and allowed Bertrand to design the cover which depicts two young girls, who in real life are former students of the author.

“They allowed me to have ideas for the cover. It’s super important and it makes all the difference,” she said.

Asked why she never gave up on “Once Upon A Solar Time,” Bertrand was honest and said, “if you have a dream you can still do it. What’s stopping

you?”

And what does the future hold for the first time novelist? She does not see another book in the immediate future but as far as the fate and direction of her debut accomplishment she would like to see it made into a movie.

Greater Essex County District School Board director of education Erin Kelly brings greetings during the “Celebration of Completion” at North Star High School last Wednesday night. Principal Melissa DeBruyne is at right.

The public had an opportunity to walk the halls at North Star High School last Wednesday night.

North Star High School principal Melissa DeBruyne was also the last principal at General Amherst High School. Her three immediate predecesors were at North Star’s “Celebration of Completion.” From left: Mary Edwards, DeBruyne, Hazel Keefner and Pat Catton.

Denise Bertrand reads from her debut novel. Photo by Fred Groves

ACOC presents annual general meeting, updates community on activities

By RTT Staff

The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) had a look back at the year that was during its annual general meeting (AGM) last week.

The ACOC held its meeting at Wolfhead Distillery last Thursday evening with president Dan Gemus stating that since its incorporation in 1972, the organization and local businesses have tried to “provide a higher quality of life for our citizens and work toward the betterment of our community as a whole. The Chamber is not a sole entity unto itself.

It is comprised of more than 100 proud Amherstburg businesses. It is the good people of these businesses, who volunteer their time, expertise, and resources to help the efforts of the Chamber. “

In his first year as president, Gemus said he feels a sense of excitement about the return to a new normal for business operations, adding the ACOC looks forward to continuing to help local member businesses thrive.

There are 110 members of the ACOC at the present time.

“We added 18 new members since our last AGM,” Gemus told the crowd.

According to Gemus, over the past year, the organization has “worked hard to not only return to more normal operations,

but also improve on what we have done in the past.”

The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce hosted the 17th annual Business Excellence Awards outdoors at G.L. Heritage Brewery June 22 with 175 people in attendance.

The ACOC also hosted two “Meet the Candidates” nights at the Columbus Community Hall prior to the Oct. 24 municipal election.

“For the first time in our history, we broadcast the event on social media,” Gemus stated.

The live stream went out on Facebook and YouTube, he said.

“This greatly extended the reach for members of the public to hear from the

candidates directly,” he stated.

Gemus added the ACOC launched the “50 for 50 Gift Card Giveaway” in the seven weeks running up to Christmas.

“We purchased $50 gift cards from member businesses and conducted weekly draws,” he said. ACOC general manager Anne Creery was also praised, with Creery telling the crowd the Chamber is planning at least one event per quarter.

“We have continued to support and update our member programs,” Gemus added. “Close to 15,000 rapid test kits have been distributed to the local business community through our partnership with ACS. This year we refreshed and updated our Member Savings programs through the addition of Certificates of

Origin, Elavon Payment processing, and the option to offer Member to Member discount programs.”

The ACOC has also updated its billboards, including one on Front Road North and another on Howard Ave.

“We also support collaborative efforts with the other Chambers in the region that provide additional opportunities for our members to initiate or build business relationships. The Chamber also encourages all residents and members to bring forward new ideas on how we can better support the community. Amherstburg is a thriving town and it has so much to offer its residents and visitors. It is a modern town with Old World charm and truly is the jewel of Essex County,” he said.

Gemus also outlined a survey done with members, including results that showed support for continuing with Open Air Weekends though members were split on the issue of downtown parking. On the latter, members supported an employee parking lot particularly during festivals.

The ACOC also joined with other Chambers to advocate the “Scrap the App” campaign, one that wanted the discontinuation of the ArriveCan app. They also supported an OCC Policy proposal to support a change in alcohol retail to support local industry and jobs in the wine and grape sector.

Gibson Gallery presenting annual members’ exhibit through March 19

is looking forward to another full year with all their members. The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Their phone number is 519-736-2826 and website www.gibsonartgallery.com. Current hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday.

By Hailey Zimmerman

The Gibson Gallery is welcoming the public to join them for their annual Member’s Exhibit this month.

The exhibit opened last Thursday and runs through March 19, the date of their closing reception which runs that Sunday afternoon from 1-3 p.m.

The gallery invited their members to bring in a piece of their diverse art works. Exhibit committee member Trudy Dempsey said works include paintings, tapestries, pottery, wood art, and other art forms are all welcome from the Gibson Gallery members. There are currently around 35 members participating in this exhibit. In all, there are 143 members in the Gibson Gallery.

“We like to support our members who support the gallery. We have quite a mix of art in the gallery,” said Dempsey. “We have many talented artist members and are extremely happy they decided to kick off with us in 2023.”

Dempsey recognizes that the members help the Gibson Gallery to remain open.

The members’ show is sharing the space with the Consignment Shop.

“There are over 28 vendors local to Essex County who support the shop and provide gifts for purchase. A small portion of the sale from the consignment shop also goes back to the gallery,” says Carole Deschaine, on behalf of the consignment shop.

The Gibson Gallery will be holding many more exhibits throughout the year, including a collaboration exhibit with North Star High School. The students’ art will be showcased at the gallery for the public.

“We are excited to show the arts of some emerging artists, and support the local high school,” says Dempsey. That will be the next exhibit.

The board members at the Gibson Gallery encourage people to keep their eyes peeled for classes starting at the Gibson Gallery. There are currently children’s art classes taking place Saturdays. There is also a paint night set for March 17 and more events to come.

Supporting the local Amherstburg gallery is encouraged by the board with the cost to become a member being $20. The perks of having a membership include discounts on classes offered at the gallery, invitations to exhibit openings, and more. The gallery

The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce held its annual general meeting at Wolfhead Distillery last Thursday night. Among those in attendance were (from left): directors Anna Marano and Sarah Seguin, Essex MP Chris Lewis, ACOC president Dan Gemus, Councillor Linden Crain, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb and Mayor Michael Prue.

Gibson Gallery exhibit committee members Trudy Dempsey (left) and Carole Deschaines helped set up the current members’ exhibit. That show runs until March 19, when there will be a closing reception.

Canada’s first all-Black battalion highlighted at military museum

By Mark Ribble

The Kingsville Military Museum was the host of a recent talk by vice president of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, Barbara Porter.

Porter came to talk about the No. 2 Construction Battalion of the Canadian Expeditionary Force (CEF), Canada’s only all-black battalion during the First World War and the largest all-black battalion in Canadian history.

As part of Black History Month, volunteers at the Kingsville Military Museum had made the effort to research local Black residents who served in WWI, WWII, Korea and more recent conflicts and had many articles and photos on display in the museum.

The contribution to the war effort by Windsor and Essex County Black soldiers had gone unrecognized for many years, but Barbara Porter was able to attend a ceremony last summer in Nova Scotia that honoured the No. 2 Construction Battalion, where a formal apology was given by Prime Minster Trudeau.

In August 1914, thousands of Canadian men attended recruiting offices across the nation to volunteer for the war effort as things ramped up in Europe.

According to the Canadian Encylopedia website, “many Black men tried to enlist as well but were rejected. Some were told that this was a white man’s war, while others were told that their services were not required.

In fact, many white soldiers told recruiting officers and battalion commanders that they refused to serve with Black men.”

In Windsor in 1916, several local Black men had tried to enlist and when that didn’t happen, they decided to start a recruitment drive.

Barbara Porter’s great grandfather — Alfred Augustus Tudor — had been born in Kentucky and moved to the Windsor area. He joined the ranks of the battalion after having spent three years with the American Cavalry.

Barbara Porter’s great uncles — James and Jerome Lockman — were instrumental in the recruitment and about 1000 people lined the streets of Windsor to bid farewell to the 54 men from this area who joined the newly formed No. 2 Construction Battalion.

The battalion was responsible for digging trenches, laying barbed wire and building roads and bridges — among other duties.

“Nowadays, these soldiers would be called engineers,” said Barbara.

The No. 2 Battalion set the groundwork for white Canadian soldiers to fight the war in Europe, but Porter says it was never mentioned in the history books.

“As a child watching TV, I wondered why Black soldiers were not in any of the war movies,” she said. “I knew that stories from my family said otherwise.”

Porter said the battalion was known as Canada’s greatest secret and she set out to get them properly recognized.

Her trip to Truro last summer gave her some hope that the battalion would soon become part of school curriculum.

“The men of the No. 2 Construction Battalion need to be recognized,” she said. “The Prime Minister said he would make sure of that.”

Porter received a $20 silver commemorative coin along with that promise and she holds it near and dear to her heart on behalf of those family members who served their nation.

About two dozen people showed up to hear Porter’s presentation, including Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers, who thanked her for such an informative morning on behalf of the town.

More WSO concerts planned for Amherstburg as the year goes on

Continued from Page 6

The “Family Concert Series” is sponsored by the Dan Gemus Family with Richard and Colleen Peddie sponsoring Saturday afternoon’s concert in Amherstburg.

“It was just beautiful. Kids were dancing, they loved it,” said Bunde.

The “Family Concert Series” has been an initiative of the WSO since 2008 and this year, there are four shows planned.

The remaining show is in April 1 at the Capitol Theatre in Windsor and the “Tour Mexico with Francisco” is a nod to Hernandez Bolanos, who is from Mexico.

“That will be a whole lot of fun,” said Bunde.

Bunde added there will be more WSO events in Amherstburg this year, with dates to be announced.

“We love to come out,” she said. “Everyone loves Amherstburg.”

Enbridge Gas Inc. Notice of Study Commencement and Information Sessions

Boblo Island Community Expansion Project

Enbridge Gas Inc. (Enbridge Gas) is proposing to construct the Boblo Island Community Expansion Project (the “Project”) to supply the community of Boblo Island with affordable natural gas. The Project is located in the Town of Amherstburg, Essex County, Ontario.

The Project will involve the construction of approximately 2.9 kilometres (km) of a combination of 2-inch plastic and 4-inch steel pipeline. The proposed pipeline will tie-in to an existing Enbridge Gas 4-inch steel pipeline near the intersection of Dalhousie Street and Park Street in Amherstburg. The pipeline will cross the Detroit River (approximately 600m) to reach Boblo Island. The distribution system on the island will be approximately 2.3 km in length. The Project is planned to be within the existing municipal road Right-of-Way (RoW) with the potential for Temporary Working Space (TWS). The proposed pipeline route has been developed for purposes of an assessment of potential environmental and socioeconomic impacts and does not represent the final project scope/design that will provide access to natural gas to end-use customers. For further details, please refer to the map below.

Consultation with Indigenous communities and engagement with landowners, government agencies, the general public, and other interested persons is an integral component of the planning process. As such, two Information Session options will be held.

As a result of inclement weather, the planned Inperson Information Session on February 22, 2023 was cancelled and has been rescheduled as follows:

In-person Information Session

Monday, March 20, 2023

5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Libro Credit Union Centre

3295 Meloche Road, Amherstburg, ON

Virtual Information Session

Tuesday, February 21, 2023, to Tuesday, March 7, 2023

https://www.solutions.ca/Enbridge-BobloIsland

A copy of the Information Session story boards will be available for viewing on the Enbridge Gas project website provided below. A questionnaire will be available as part of the Information Sessions, and you will have the opportunity to provide comments and/or questions about the proposed Project. Input received during the Information Sessions will be used to develop sitespecific environmental protection and mitigation measures for the Project. Input and comments for the Project should be provided by April 19, 2023

As part of the planning process, Enbridge Gas has retained Stantec Consulting Ltd. (Stantec) to undertake an Environmental Study for the Project. The Environmental Study will fulfill the requirements of the Ontario Energy Board’s (OEB) “Environmental Guidelines for the Location, Construction, and Operation of Hydrocarbon Pipelines and Facilities in Ontario, 7th Edition (2016)”. It is anticipated that an Environmental Report for the study will be completed in June 2023, after which Enbridge Gas will file an application to request an OEB Leave to Construct (LTC) for the Project. Should the OEB find the Project to be in the public’s interest, construction is anticipated to commence as early as Q2 2024.

For any questions or comments regarding the Environmental Study or the proposed Boblo Island Community Expansion Project, please reach out to:

Michael Candido

Environmental Scientist

Stantec Consulting Ltd.

Telephone: (519) 585-3439 Email: BobloEA@stantec.com

Or visit the project website at: https://www.enbridgegas.com/BobloIsland

There will also be other concerts in and around Windsor-Essex County during the year. Details are at www.windsorsymphony.com.

“We’re going to get out into the

community,” said Bunde.

Bunde praised the work of Armstrong and Wearne.

“It was a whole lot of fun having them with the orchestra,” said Bunde.

Memories of Yesterday...

Safety Patrols at Amherstburg Public School, circa 1950. The group stands outside of the former school building on Richmond Street, now the location of Richmond Terrace Nursing Home. Patrols have been identified as follows: Standing (left to right - Nancy Bates, Marilyn Bouffard, Joanne Jacobs, Norma Anderson, Anna

May Richards, and Joan McCurdy. Front row - unidentified, unidentified, Bill Smith, Gord Zimmerman, and Eddie Ryan.

Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection

Barbara Porter answers a question during a recent presentation. Southpoint Sun photo

The WSO performed “Green Eggs and Ham” at Christ Church last Saturday afternoon.

Wolves win SWOSSAA, enter OFSAA volleyball tourney as top seed

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves earned a trip to the OFSAA “AA” provincial girls volleyball tournament this week in St. Catharines after winning SWOSSAA last week.

After the SWOSSAA match was postponed twice due to inclement weather, the Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational Institute (LCCVI) Lancers were able to make the trip to Amherstburg from Petrolia last Tuesday evening.

North Star knocked off the Lancers convincingly, sweeping the match in three sets by scores of 25-8, 25-8 and 25-16 and entered OFSAA as the top seed.

“It feels good,” said North Star’s Emily Beauregard.

Teammate Lauren Essenpreis said the Wolves have improved as the season has gone on.

“We’ve grown so much as a team since the beginning of the year,” said Essenpreis.

With the program moving from General Amherst High School to North Star High School, the players had to get used to their new school and Essenpreis indicated they were able to do that.

“It’s a different environment,” she said.

Beauregard said they played LCCVI in a recent tournament at Chatham-Kent.

“We played them in the Chatham tournament and split sets with them,” said Beauregard.

Essenpreis said they went out in the SWOSSAA with a strong mindset and “we went out and played our best.”

Both Beauregard and Essenpreis thanked the coaches, parents, supporters and the fans for coming out for last Tuesday night’s match.

Assistant coach Mary Ewer said this is the tenth SWOSSAA title and 12th trip to OFSAA since she and head coach Jeff Miller took over the senior girls volleyball program at General Amherst.

“They served well,” said Ewer. “Our defense played great. We were up to the challenge. We came out ready to play and played well.”

Ewer said they didn’t practice well the

day before but attributed that to being disappointed about the two postponements due to weather.

Miller said they were the favourites coming in and knew that if they played well, they should be able to win. He said he gave credit to their opponents but believed in his team.

“We knew if we came out and served well, they wouldn’t stop us and that’s exactly what happened,” said Miller.

The Wolves worked on their systems heading into the OFSAA tournament.

“We’re playing well,” he said after

Tuesday’s SWOSSAA win. “We’re playing at a high level. Like any sport, you strive for consistency.”

There will be a lot of good teams and several challenges at OFSAA, Miller added, and “we have to be ready for it.”

The Wolves won all three matches on the first day of OFSAA this past Monday. They defeated Mentor College 25-9 and 25-12, Bishop Marrocco/Thomas Merton 25-11 and 25-8 and Kingston 25-13 and 25-19. The tournament was ongoing as of press time.

Wolves eliminated in WECSSAA boys hockey semi-final vs. Essex

when you go down by two goals.

“We did let up and didn’t battle hard in front of the net,” said Prieur.

The players thanked head coach Glen Holden for his work during the season and also said it was a good season, as they enjoyed being with their teammates throughout the 2022-23 season.

Holden said “it was a classic playoff battle” against Essex.

“We got into a bit of trouble in the second period,” said Holden. “We took some penalties and Essex capitalized. We couldn’t really recover from that.”

The Wolves lost some battles, Holden added, and when that happens he said it often ends up in the back of your own net.

North Star played a great game two days earlier in the 5-1 semi-final win in Leamington versus Cardinal Carter, said Holden.

By Ron Giofu

The season is over for the North Star Wolves boys hockey team.

The Wolves were eliminated from the WECSSAA playoffs last Wednesday afternoon by the Essex Red Raiders, as the latter won the semi-final match-up 6-3 on their home ice at the Essex Centre Sports Complex.

North Star took the lead in the first minute of the game on a goal from Wyatt Jackson but Essex tied it on a goal from Jacob Ranni.

Brett Jones gave North Star a 2-1 lead in the second period but Essex would score three times before

the middle period was over, a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

Ranni would score two more goals with Luke Ward adding another.

Mateo Rivas got the Wolves back within a goal but a pair of empty net goals would seal the deal for Essex.

“It didn’t go the way we wanted it to,” conceded Rivas. “We let in a few in the second period and battled hard in the third period, but we couldn’t get the job done.”

Carter Prieur added they could have played better in the second period. He said a team with a good goalie like Essex is hard to come back on, especially

The Wolves’ coach added there is a lot of parity in the league this season, as anyone from seeds one through six could have made it out of WECSSAA.

In the end, Belle River won their sixth straight WECSSAA title by beating the Red Raiders 5-3 Monday afternoon in Essex.

As for his team, Holden said there will be a lot of new players next year. He said he loses both goalies and about 12 players overall to graduation.

“It’s going to be a bit of a retooling year (next year),” he said.

Holden called this year’s team “a good group to coach” and “they came to the rink wanting to get better.”

The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team celebrate after winning the SWOSSAA “AA” championship last Tuesday evening (above). Addison Prieur sets the ball during the match against Lambton Central Collegiate & Vocational Institute (right), won by North Star in three straight sets.

(Left) North Star’s Brett Jones scores a second period goal against the Essex Red Raiders last Wednesday afternoon.

(Right) Kyle Jones gets a scoring chance on Essex goalie Ethan Davis in the third period. Essex would win the WECSSAA boys hockey semi-final game by a final score of 6-3. RTT Photos by Ron Giofu

Local hockey tournament draws 28 teams from Ontario, Michigan

of a couple of Oldtimers’ tournaments offered in the Windsor-Essex region. He noted the COVID-19 pandemic impacted oldtimers hockey.

“Years ago, there used to be five local tournaments and now there are only two,” he noted.

Of the 28 teams taking part this year, they were broken down into an Open Division which was for 19-and-up as well as divisions for 50-plus and 60-plus. Rousseau said that since they moved the tournament to the Libro Centre, they have always had 28 teams.

“The young guys think they are going to the NHL,” joked Rousseau. “There are a lot of former junior players but this is recreational.”

The Amherstburg Sunday Morning League has seven teams and they joined forces to enter four squads in this year’s tournament.

By Fred Groves

Hundreds of recreational hockey players laced up their blades this past weekend as the Libro Centre was the site of the annual Amherstburg Oldtimers Hockey Tournament.

Chatham, Wheatley, Tilbury and Leamington were all represented at the event that once again had 28 teams that played in several different divisions.

“They come from Southwestern Ontario and Michigan. We advertise all over,” said tournament organizer Jim Rousseau.

Beginning Friday night and extending late into Sunday afternoon, teams were guaranteed a minimum of three games. Both rinks at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg were used.

According to Rousseau, the event has been going for about 40 years and the one in Amherstburg is only one

One of the games Sunday saw former Essex 73’s and Leamington Flyers standout goalie Trevor Wheaton help his team win in a very exciting shootout. The game was a draw 1-1 after the first period, still deadlocked after a 3-on-3 fast paced overtime and Wheaton shut the door in the shootout.

It is believed the tournament dates back to the the early 1980’s when Ron Lenson, Sr. started it up. His son, Ron, Jr. continues to be involved with the event.

Rousseau said the tournament was sanctioned by the Canadian Adult Recreation Hockey League.

MP Lewis aids “Canadian Firearm Owners Stand with Ukraine”

Special to the RTT

Essex MP Chris Lewis joined Chris Profota, Canadian Rep Principal at Weatherby, Inc. and Jenn Gadbois, Managing Director, Canadian Sporting Arms & Ammunition Association (CSAAA) in a cheque presentation to a representative of the Canada Ukraine Foundation.

Called “Canadian Firearm Owners Stand With Ukraine,” the partnership

raffled off a rare Weatherby firearm for $20 per ticket. A cheque presentation was made Feb. 25 at General Gun & Supply in Windsor.

Entries sold raised more than $17,000 for children affected by the war in Ukraine. According to a press release sent out by Lewis’ office, this effort was initiated by Lewis and Profota, hosted by the CSAAA and sponsored by Weatherby, Inc.

Continued

The Amherstburg Oldtimers tournament was held at the Libro Centre last weekend. Organizer Jim Rousseau goes over the results (above) while a championship celebrates (right).

RTT Photos by Fred Groves

Essex MP Chris Lewis assisted with a “Canadian Firearm Owners Stand with Ukraine” fundraiser.” From left: Chris Profota, Jenn Gadbois, Lewis, Leisha Nazarwich, Carol Guimond. Submitted photo

the big 5-0!

Everyone’s favourite newsman is turning Happy Birthday!

ron Giofu

March 13th

Happy 80th Birthday CRAIG MCDOWELL

March 10

Happy 80th Birthday to the best husband, father and papa ever! Love from all your family! 80 looks pretty good on you!

AUCTION

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

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

PRAYER

Holy Spirit, you who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideals. You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and you who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue want to thank you for everything, and confirm once more that I never want to be seperated from you, no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in your perpetual glory. Amen. You must say the prayer for 3 days consecutively without saying your wish. You will receive your wish after the 3rd day. Though how difficult it is. A promise to publish the prayer after your favour is granted. F.M.

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

WANTED

VINTAGE GOLF CLUBS

- Vintage wood head woods, irons with wood or metal shafts. Also golf bags. Very old only please. Call or text 519-567-4446.

JANITOR NEEDED PART-TIME POSITION AVAILABLE - in Amherstburg area. We pride ourselves with being a loyal & honest employer that treats our staff with respect. $15.75/hr 15+ hours a week evening hours. If you are selfmotivated & reliable have your own transportation please email pattie@ greenteamclean.ca or call 519-730-0270.

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.

WANTED

SELLING YOUR GOLD JEWELRY + COINS?

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) - we have satisfied customers not costly coloured brochures. Free estimates no obligation. Friday, March 10 at KofC Hall, 190 Richmond Street, Amherstburg. Paying top dollar gold, sliver jewelry, all coins, Canada USA World, free estimates, private appointments available –All windup pocket and wrist watches old paper money, stamp collections. House calls also available Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 55 years experience 519-818-1805.

Community Calendar

FRIDAY, MARCH 10 FISH FRY - The Rotary Club of Amherstburg will be hosting a Fish Fry at the Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to dine-in or take-out a fish or chicken dinner.

Dinner is the Martin Breshamer Memorial Easter Seals fundraiser. Dessert table, 50/50 draw.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S

The Essex County Naturalists also provide opportunities to observe nature alongside members keen to impart their knowledge at what we call “Pop-Ups”. The next pop-up is Sunday, March 12, 12:30 p.m.- 2:30 p.m., Malden Park.

DAY - The Essex County International Women’s Day Committee invites everyone to join them in celebrating International Women’s Day at 11a.m. at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery.

This year’s theme is Women in Fermentation. Panel discussion, 50/50 draw, documentary screening and more. Proceeds benefit ACS and Pink Boots Canada. Tickets $85. For tickets, visit https://www.sprucewoodshores.

com/event/international-womensday-luncheon-panel-discussion-withwomen-in-fermentation/

TUESDAY, MARCH 14

Seniors Dinner & Dance; Senior dance (at 3 p.m.) and dinner (at 5 p.m.)  at Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St.  $10 donation required for the K of C.  Tickets can be purchased in advance to guarantee a seat or purchased at the door. Limited seating.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 15

Essex County Ontario Ancestors March webinar; Starts at 7p.m. Barton Breen: Irish ancestors from Armagh to Comber. Free & open to everyone! https://essex.ogs.on.ca for Zoom link to register.

FRIDAY, MARCH 24, Tim’s Famous Chili Dinner; Fundraiser

at the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., from 5-8 p.m. Dinner is the awardwinning chili of mission president Tim McAllister. Meal served with coleslaw, rolls, coffee/tea and dessert. Tickets $15 for adults, $8 for children under 12. For tickets, stop by the mission and see Violet or Kim, or call 519-7369140. Eat-in or take-out.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 5 Volunteer Recruitment Fair; Held at Amherstburg Community Services, 320 Richmond St. Open to people interested in becoming a volunteer and looking to give back to their community. Good for students needing volunteer hours or seniors needing something to do. Come and meet the many non-profit organizations that will be in attendance. Runs from 5-7 p.m., everyone welcome. For info, call 519736-5471.

from Laura and all the staff at the River Town Times & Southpoint Sun.

Kicks & Giggles

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

A development may have you feeling a bit down, Aries. That is only temporary, though, as your mood and circumstances will rebound in no time at all.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, people you encounter this week may be exceptionally stubborn, so you may need to avoid confrontations. Keep your emotions in check as best as you can.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, the weather may not be suitable for getting much done outdoors, but you can certainly stay busy inside the house with any projects you have been putting off.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Regular season over for Admirals, playoffs start this week vs. Wheatley

By Ron Giofu

Wednesday night, losing 7-2 in Wallaceburg.

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to crochet.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

This is a great opportunity for getting rid of any clutter that has been holding you back, Cancer. Start sorting through the garage or cleaning out a desk at work.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, do not worry about the small stuff that you feel could be holding you back. If you step away from the situation, you may find that everything is working out.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, there are plenty of opportunities open to you, but you may not realize they are so close by. A friend may need to guide your way on this for the time being.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

You may be feeling bad about something you did in the past, Libra, and now you want to make amends. It’s the little changes you implement that will make a difference.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you may be ready to give your life an overhaul. That may amount to you changing careers in the weeks to come. Do your research before you put in notice.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, stay focused and disciplined this week, especially as it pertains to a diet. You can maintain your commitment, especially with others cheering you on.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, rewards will not come without hard work and dedication. Now is the time to stick with the plan and keep moving forward. Save days off for later.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Do not go up against managers or superiors this week, Aquarius. Doing so likely won’t go in your favor. Just keep out of the spotlight for a little while longer.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

You may be building the blocks of a major life project, Pisces. Use all of the resources at your disposal in the days to come.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 5 - Madison Beer, Singer (24)

MARCH 6 - Shaquille O’Neal, Performer (51)

MARCH 7 - Bryan Cranston, Actor (67)

MARCH 8 - Freddie Prinze, Jr., Actor (47)

MARCH 9 - Oscar Isaac, Actor (44)

MARCH 10 - Carrie Underwood, Singer (40)

MARCH 11 - Thora Birch, Actress (41)

The playoffs are here for the Amherstburg Admirals and the Wheatley Sharks are the opponent.

The Admirals wrapped up the regular season with a 5-3 loss Sunday night at home against the visiting Dresden Kings. The loss meant the sixth-place Admirals finished with a 13-26-0-3 record and 29 points. The Sharks are 27-11-1-3, good for 58 points and third place.

Dresden built a 3-0 lead in the first 9:36 of Sunday night’s game but the Admirals tied it by the 3:37 point of the third period.

Stefan Djordjevic scored a powerplay goal in the second period and a shorthanded goal in the third period with Connor Demelo tying the score.

The Kings scored a five-on-three powerplay later in the third period and a shorthanded empty net goal to wrap up the scoring and the PJHL Stobbs Division regular season.

“I think we started a little slow but I think we battled back in the second and third periods,” said assistant coach Cody Schneider.

The third period was penalty filled, Schneider noted, but was happy with how the players battled back Sunday night.

The Admirals also played last

Stefan Djordjevic and Joshua Pedersen had the Amherstburg goals.

The PJHL Stobbs Division quarterfinals start tonight (March 8) in Wheatley at 7:30 p.m. while Game 2 will be Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. Game 3 will be Saturday in Wheatley at 4:30 p.m. with Game 4 being Sunday night at 7 p.m. in Amherstburg.

If necessary, Game 5 will be next Wednesday (March 15) in Wheatley at 7:30 p.m., Game 6 will be March 16 at 7 p.m. in Amherstburg and Game 7 would be March 18 in Wheatley at 4:30 p.m.

“We’re good, we’re prepared,” said Schneider. “We’re fired up. The new season is starting, which is the best season to have.”

The regular season didn’t go the way the Admirals wanted but Schneider said the team has fought through adversity and are ready for the playoffs.

“It should be a dog fight,” he said of the upcoming Wheatley series.

Schneider said they have to have to go game-by-game and even go 20 minutes at a time and play hard.

“We know who their players are, who their team is and we’re prepared for what we know is coming,” said Schneider.

Connor Demelo of the Amherstburg Admirals scores a third period goal last Sunday night. Dresden won 6-3. The Admirals start their PJHL quarterfinal series against Wheatley tonight on the road before hosting Game 2 Thursday night at the Libro Centre. Game 3 is Saturday in Wheatley with Game 4 Sunday night back in Amherstburg.

Lewis helps present cheque in fundraiser

Continued from Page 13

Lewis stated: “it was an honour to partner with Chris Profota and Jenn Gadbois, on this nationwide fundraiser for children in Ukraine. It was also great to see so many from the legal firearm community step up and buy a ticket.”

The cheque was presented to Carol Guimond and Leisha Nazarwich from the Ukrainian National Federation and the Ukraine Canada Congress in Windsor.

“We had tickets rolling across North America,” said Chris Profota

with Weatherby Canada. “To have the whole outdoor community come together, buying tickets, you know, with the hope of a win but mostly it was just a donation from them.”

Gadbois with the CSAAA stated:

“Our membership base is small business owners throughout Canada and they’re always trying to give back to the community. So what better way to give back to the community and show our support then join on with Chris Profota and Chris Lewis on this great initiative.”

Amherstburg’s Stefan Djordjevic (left) reacts after scoring a second period goal against the Dresden Kings Sunday night. Dresden went on to win the Jr. C hockey game 5-3.