Amherstburg celebrates Canada’s 156th birthday

By Ron Giofu

Canada Day was celebrated in Amherstburg with daylong activities helping to mark Canada’s 156th birthday.

The nation’s birthday was recognized with the Canada Day Run/Walk in the morning (see story on Page 11), an afternoon of activities in Toddy Jones Park in the afternoon, a pair of concerts in King’s Navy Yard Park in the evening and fireworks over the Detroit River at night.

Events in Toddy Jones Park included the Amherstburg Fire Department’s ladder truck spraying children (and nearby parents), a performance from the Rivertown Dance Academy, hockey on the grass featuring the Amherstburg Admirals, cupcakes, food trucks and “Amherstburg’s Mightiest Machines,” the latter being the opportunity for people to examine the town’s fleet as well as police cars.

The evening concerts featured the talents of the Adam Butcher Band and Buck Twenty with crowds growing during the evening, building to the fireworks.

After a land acknowledgement by Theresa Sims, Mayor Michael Prue referenced the Indigenous culture in his remarks during the opening ceremonies. Prue said the country’s roots date back to the Indigenous Peoples and that “for centuries upon centuries,” families have come to this country including this area to build communities.

“There is no doubt this day is one of reflection and remembrance,” said Prue. “It’s an opportunity to examine what it means to be Canadian.”

The mayor encouraged people to learn more about Indigenous culture, stating “it’s everyone’s responsibility.”

Diversity is a strength of Canada, Prue added, and stated “all are welcome in Canada” regardless of who they are and where they come from. Whether a family’s roots date back to Confederation or if they are a new Canadian, “the maple leaf is part of our Canadian identity.”

Dignitaries, which included four members of council including Prue, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb and councillors Molly Allaire and Diane Pouget, were marched to the stage from the Commissariat by the colour guard at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157. The only point where weather hampered the event was late afternoon when rain caused the cancellation of the Border City Barkers dog show.

For more photos from the Canada Day festivities in Amherstburg, please turn to Page 8.