Santas run the streets, River Lights opening follows
Super Santa Run draws 560 people
By Ron Giofu
It still is just more than one month before Christmas, but that didn’t stop large groups of people in Santa Claus suits from coming to town.
The Super Santa Run, Walk & Wheel returned to the downtown streets of Amherstburg Saturday evening. The event was a fundraiser for the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) and its fundraising arm, the Essex Region Conservation Foundation.
Danielle Breault-Stuebing, ERCA’s director of communications and outreach services, said the event went very well.
“It’s an overwhelmingly successful day,” said Breault-Stuebing.
The event was held in partnership with Walkers and Runners Around the County of Essex (WRACE) with Molly Allaire and her husband Dan helping with organizational efforts. Allaire, also an Amherstburg town councillor and ERCA board member, said it brought a lot of holiday spirit to town.
“It’s the kickoff to the holiday season in Amherstburg,” said Allaire.
Allaire added it was “bigger and better” this year, with 560 people estimated to have participated.
Continued on Page 9
Fireworks part of River Lights opening
By Ron Giofu
The River Lights Winter Festival has started for 2024 with hundreds coming out on the weekend for the municipal tree lighting ceremony.
The tree lighting ceremony took place immediately after the Super Santa Run with the public there for the tree lighting and to view the River Lights displays joining those in Santa suits that were there for the run. After the tree in the Navy Yard Park parkette was lit, the crowd moved down by the water to view the fireworks. An outdoor movie followed the fireworks.
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb brought greetings on behalf of the town.
“Thank you for choosing to kick off the holiday season in Amherstburg,” he said.
Gibb pointed out the roots of the River Lights Winter Festival date back 18 years when a group of volunteers got together on a project to give people something to do in the winter months in downtown Amherstburg.
The event is now a six-week festival overseen by the town with illuminated displays mainly in Navy Yard Park and Toddy Jones Park, with Gibb stating it makes a great waterfront even better.
Continued on Page 6
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, joined by Enbridge supervisor of solar operations Ian Robertson,
municipal tree lighting ceremony as part of River Lights (left). About
“Super Santa Run” just prior to the River Lights opening
Town tables 2025 budget, starting off with proposed 5.3% tax increase
By Ron Giofu
Amherstburg town council will be starting the 2025 budget process looking to shave down a proposed 5.3 per cent tax increase.
Town council tabled the operating and capital budgets during a special meeting held Monday evening. In a presentation made by chief financial officer (CFO)/treasurer Tracy Prince, “the 2025 budget focuses on the proposed levy to deliver the service level and sustainability desired by council. To fund all the proposals in the 2025 budget, the levy increase would be $2,353,233. Factoring in an increase in assessment growth allows for the presentation of a 5.3 per cent increase in the municipal tax rate.”
Prince said that percentage would translate into a $149.81 increase of the year on a home valued at $250,000, or $2.81 per week.
Water and wastewater rates are also projected to increase by three per cent each.
Work on the budget began as far back as May, she noted, and the senior management team (SMT) went through requests and made their recommendations to town council. The two levies that were created by town council are still part of the town’s budgeting process.
“There are contractual services in there that we do not have control over. They are based on provincial legislation, health and safety regulations and contractual obligations,” said Prince. “Those are police and fire.”
Prince said with MPAC delaying weighted assessment, “it appears our mill rate continues to grow. If that assessment had kept pace, our mill rate would not have had to increase as much because the value of the home would have increased.” CAO Valerie Critchley confirmed MPAC hasn’t increased assessments since 2016 and it will not happen in 2025.
“The increase for 2016-20 was supposed to start implementing in 2020. That was delayed. Had all of that happen the way it was supposed to, we would actually be in our second set of reassessments. We are still at the 2016 assessment,” said Critchley.
Among the new positions being recommended by the SMT for 2025 include a human resources (HR) administrative co-ordinator moving from part-time to full-time with a proposed budget impact of $38,320.44. A permanent part-time recreation co-ordinator would have a budget impact of $30,729, if approved.
Cost constraints identified by Prince include contractual salary obligations - including salaries, benefit cost increases and retiree benefit cost increases of $591,600 (1.85 per cent), an increasing in policing costs of $565,021 (1.77 per cent), dispatch and radios costs rising “substantially” to $226,056 (0.71 per cent), an asset management plan increase of $498,734 (1.6 per cent), new debt of $225,000 (0.7 per cent), an increase to the transit program net of gas tax of $147,000 (0.46 per cent), garbage removal including tipping fees of $49,749, cybersecurity costs of
Coming Soon!
$75,000, bunker gear replacement of $64,000, vehicle and equipment maintenance costs of $50,000 and the aforementioned moving of the HR position to full-time.
The new debt is largely attributed to the construction of the new Amherstburg fire hall, currently underway at the Libro Centre. Prince added some of the costs relating to growth, such as garbage collection and tipping fees as one example, are paid for by growth.
Budget highlights Prince included in her presentation were the maintenance of programs and services, issue papers provided to council for direction proposed service level reductions, lifecycle reserve contributions increased per the asset management plan (AMP) recommendations, OCIF funding budgeted and confirmed at 85 per cent of 2024, utilities and fuel, salary and benefit costs, and the police contracting expenses.
Pressures she identified include the non-residential construction index and legislative changes surrounding asset management, accounting standard changes, availability of infrastructure programs, and federal and provincial budget uncertainty.
Program and service delivery pressures include service levels, preventative maintenance programs, municipal drains, enhancements, maintaining programs, collective bargaining agreements and contractual obligations.
Prince provided a graphic detailing proposed tax rate increases from around the area, with Amherstburg’s 5.3 per cent landing near the middle of those numbers that are definitively known. The County of Essex has a proposed increase of 6.37 per cent increase with its budget meeting scheduled for Nov. 28.
Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne outlined the proposed capital budget, noting the proposed five-year capital budget from 2025-29 being over $63.4 million. Of that, just over $13.8 million has been identified for 2025. The 2025-29 recommendations are balanced against forecasted available reserve funding. She noted the 2026-29 figures are presented for approval in principle and subject to change, except for a fire ladder truck. That truck is included in the fleet and was approved by town council, she said.
About 41 per cent of funding for the capital budget comes through taxation while 21 per cent comes from user rates, such as water and wastewater rates, Osborne noted. The bulk of the investments in the capital budget –about $4.4 million – is in the town’s road network. The water network costs are the next highest at about $2.77 million.
Osborne said an asset management shortfall amounts to about a 1.6 per cent increase annually.
“Unfortunately, the OCIF funding that we have, we have been advised to project a 15 per cent reduction annually on that until it levels back out to pre-2020 rates,” said Osborne.
Growth in reserves is hindered by a decline in OCIF funding, she added.
“The annual shortfall in funding just to address the assets we’ve added since 2023 is about $491,000, less than we’re putting in annually per year,” said Osborne. “Every time we build a new asset we didn’t have before, there is a financial accountability based on its life that we need to start to understand and to make sure council has the information when you start making your decisions.”
Among the projects proposed in the 2025 capital budget are $160,000 for the annual bridge maintenance program, $1,025,000 for culverts on Concession 6 North and Concession 7 South, $175,000 for the sidewalk replacement program, $2.9 million to reconstruct Concession 8 North from Alma St. to the bridge over River Canard, $965,000 for the mill and pave program, $1.125 million for a watermain and road rehab project on McCurdy Dr., Linden Court and Oak Court, $150,000 for engineering on a Richmond St. sewer project from Fryer St. to States Ave., $313,000 for Lakewood Dr. pumping station enhancements, $80,000 for Big Creek sewage plant upgrades, and $1.328 million for the fleet replacement program.
Among the capital budget items for the parks, facilities, recreation and culture department, there is $100,000 earmarked for Libro Centre arena upgrades, $12,000 in upgrades for the Libro Centre’s premier baseball diamond including backstop removal and moving home plate and the pitchers mound to “accommodate proper base positioning.”
Continued on Page 4
Local postal workers hit the picket lines as part of national strike
By Ron Giofu
Postal workers in Amherstburg joined their colleagues nationwide in hitting the picket lines last Friday morning.
Workers represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) went on strike early Friday, with unionized employees picketing out front of the Amherstburg Post Office.
“We’ve been in negotiations with little progress,” said Dan Sutton, the local CUPW media representative. “We’re looking for fair wages and the right to retire with dignity.”
According to national reports, health benefits and paid sick days are also issues involved in the negotiations.
Sutton said the last contract came into effect in 2018 and expired in 2022. At that point, Sutton said the corporation approached the union and asked for a two-year extension, which the union agree to, but not overwhelmingly.
“When we agreed to this extension, the corporation was very aware we had demands on the table,” said Sutton.
Those demands are still there and new demands have also arisen in the two years since.
Negotiations have not gone well, Sutton added, and he said the corporation wants to go to a parttime model with lower wages. Pensions would be weakened for new hires and that would also be detrimental to current members, he stated.
Reductions to wages and staffing will not be tolerated, according to Sutton.
A strike mandate by urban workers and RSMC (Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers) passed by a 95 per cent vote, he said.
Sutton called the strike “a last resort” and said the union is “willing to do what it takes” to achieve a fair contract. He stated having good paying jobs with good pensions has community benefits as well.
Items such as postal banking, providing EV charges and other service expansions are items the union is open to, he stated.
There are approximately 55,000 CUPW workers on the picket lines across Canada with about 20 working out of the Amherstburg Post Office.
According to Canada Post’s website, the company said in a headline to a Nov. 15 post “CUPW announces national strike that will cause service delays for Canadians.”
“Canada Post’s operations will shut down during a national strike, affecting millions of Canadians and
businesses across the country,” the company’s post says. “Customers will experience delays due to the strike activity. Mail and parcels will not be processed or delivered for the duration of the national strike, and some post offices will be closed. Service guarantees will be impacted for items already in the postal network. No new items will be accepted until the national disruption is over.”
Canada Post adds: “All mail and parcels in the postal network will be secured and delivered as quickly as possible on a first-in, first-out basis once operations resume. However, a national strike of any length will impact service to Canadians well after the strike activity ends. Shutting down facilities across the country will affect Canada Post’s entire national network. Processing and delivery may take some time to fully return to normal.”
In a post back on Nov. 5, the company stated “Canada Post is at a critical juncture. To better serve customers in today’s dynamic ecommerce market, significant change is required to our delivery model. If we don’t change, the company will fall further behind. That’s why we’re negotiating a more flexible delivery model that would allow affordable sevenday-a-week parcel delivery, with more competitive pricing and other important service improvements for our customers. A flexible delivery model will improve Canada Post’s services for customers and help the company grow the business. Creating delivery flexibility is essential to being able to afford what we’ve put forward for current employees. Under our balanced approach, current employees would make gains and not lose ground on what matters most to them. Our proposals for current employees include wage increases, enhanced leave entitlements, and protection of their defined benefit pension and job security provisions.
The company has also proposed that employees hired in the future would receive a competitive compensation package that would include a less costly approach to pension and benefits, including in post-retirement.”
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Staff represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers hit the picket lines Friday morning. That included staff at the Amherstburg post office. Over 55,000 postal workers are striking across the country
Author’s new book explores life inside the Belle Vue House
By Ron Giofu
A local resident and historian has finally completed a book that was over a decade in the making.
Debra Honor has written “The Lives That Touched Belle Vue Amherstburg,” a new book that details the people that lived there and more.
“It’s not just the people who lived in the house,” she said. “I have a list of people who built the house.”
There are also stories on servants who worked at the 200-year-old Belle Vue house, those who lived there in
the mid-20th Century when it was a veterans home and appendices with more historical research information.
“I have not written a novel,” she said. “I’ve written historical non-fiction.”
Honor said the stories are shorter articles made into chapters. They are similar to the newspaper articles she wrote for the River Town Times several years ago, but expanded.
“Each story is in chronological order as best I could,” said Honor.
“The Lives That Touched Belle Vue Amherstburg” is a book that Honor has worked on for the last 14 years. It was something she worked on “on and off” over that time but earlier this year, she committed to finishing the project.
“This past January, I said to (husband) Robert, I have to let go of the house,” she said. “I’m going to work at the book.”
The many families are detailed in the book, backed up by Honor’s research, including the Reynolds family. Honor discovered through her research that Robert Reynolds joined Charles Fortier as being commissioned to construct the Boblo Island lighthouse.
“There was no one else mentioned as an architect,” said Honor.
Honor added her husband believed that makes sense as archways over the door on the lighthouse match those on Belle Vue.
Reynolds also connected to James McGill, whose family founded McGill University in Montreal.
Druggist William Johnston owned the house and was a druggist who updated the house into a Italianate Villa. Honor said he created a ginger ale that rivaled
Public open house on budget this Saturday
Continued from Page 1
Other proposed capital budget plans call for $65,000 for Gordon House upgrades, $75,000 for HVAC upgrades at town hall, $165,000 for upgrades to the police station roof, $150,000 to further investigate Libro Centre parking lot issues, $100,000 for Pat Thrasher Park improvements, $530,000 for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park improvements such as tennis courts that council has applied for additional government funding for, $150,000 for parking enhancements at parks, $100,000 for Navy Yard Park lighting upgrades, $500,000 for a pump track at the Libro Centre, and $350,000 towards redevelopment at Malden Centre Park.
Councillor Peter Courtney said the proposed 5.3 per cent increase to start was “not terrible” and said council will still seek more cuts.
“My jaw didn’t hit the floor tonight,” said Courtney. “Thank you for that initial projection.”
Councillor Molly Allaire stated her first look at the budget saw some cuts on the table made by staff.
“That’s really helpful, it’s really impressive,” said Allaire.
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, who chaired the meeting in the absence of the vacationing Mayor Michael Prue, noted the real efforts begin now.
“Good luck,” he told his fellow council members. “Now the hard work starts.”
A public open house will be held this Saturday (Nov. 23) at the Libro Centre from 10 a.m.-12 noon.
An online survey is open at www. talktheburg.ca until Dec. 2. The audit and finance committee will review the proposed budget Dec. 2 and the budget will be deliberated Dec. 9-11, with public delegations welcome Dec. 9.
The finalized budget is scheduled to be completed and adopted in January 2025.
Vernors, but he drowned in the Detroit River.
Perry Leighton found First Nations artifacts on the property and Honor also notes the ownership of John G. Mullen and his family as well. Mullen is also a former mayor of Amherstburg.
“He was very philanthropic,” she said. “He was always helping people.”
The era as a veterans hospital saw World War II veterans work there to help the World War I veterans who were housed there.
“They were from Essex and Kent Counties,” Honor said of the veterans who lived there. “They were local veterans.”
The book concludes in the time period when it was a Ukrainian Catholic Church.
“There are a lot of people who want the book,” she stated.
Honor said she had never edited a book before so it was a learning experience for her. She has a friend in
Halifax who also assisted with editing.
Ancestry.com was a valued website during her writing of the book and the research done by the late Paul Hertel helped her. Hertel had previously done a lot of work on those who lived in Belle Vue when it was a veterans’ hospital. Many politicians helped with Belle Vue over the years, noting Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent once visited.
“I learned a lot about Amherstburg history writing this book,” she said.
The book is $20 and Honor is selling them through various historical talks she does. It is also being sold at the Marsh Historical Collection, and a book signing is being held there Nov. 21 at 7 p.m.
Santa parade this Saturday
The Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade is this Saturday at 6 p.m.
Presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation, it starts at Sandwich St. N. and William St., heads south to Richmond St., goes west on Richmond to Dalhousie St. and ends at Toddy Jones Park.
A “fan zone” is at No Frills from 3-5:30 p.m.
Amherstburg resident Debra Honor has written a new book “The Lives That Touched Belle Vue Amherstburg.” A book signing will be this Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Marsh Historical Collection.
New County of Essex Official Plan receives stamp of approval
By Fred Groves
The County of Essex has a new Official Plan and pending a final stamp of approval from the provincial Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMHA), it will guide the county through the next 30 years.
At the Nov. 6, regular meeting of Essex County council, manager of planning services Rebecca Belanger reported that the province has reviewed the plan and, following a few minor wording adjustments, is set to approve the final draft.
“It is a bit of a momentous occasion when we have our Official Plan approved,” said Warden Hilda MacDonald.
The plan has been in the works since 2022 and upon public meetings and a lot of input from the public is designed
to help shape the county as it is set to experience an unprecedented growth.
“This is a plan for the next 30 years during which the county will experience growth – more people, more housing, more jobs- than it has historically experienced,’ reads the introduction to the 207-page Official Plan.
Essex County’s current plan was done in 2014 and based on background work that started in 2009.
“The Official Plan Review Team has received the support from the MMHA to advance the final document for adoption,” wrote Belanger in her report to council.
While county councillors approved the final draft of the plan, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy wanted to know how the new county document will be entwined with those of each of the seven
local municipalities.
“The public feedback has certainly helped us shape our Official Plan,” said Bondy.
Belanger said that all local municipalities’ official plans and any amendments to those plans will have to conform to the county’s plan.
Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers said he has had discussions with several residents and appreciated the fact that the county listened to and adopted concerns from the public.
“In a world of decreasing government trust levels, to go through that process was greatly appreciated,” said Rogers.
One concern raised was what financial impact the new Essex County Official Plan will have on the overall budget.
“Costs associated with the plan’s
implementation will appear in subsequent reports aligned with the strategies outlined in the report,” noted Belanger.
The county’s Official Plan will strive to accomplish the following main points.
-plan for growth for housing and jobs -reinforce the importance of agriculture
-commit to the importance of cooperative working relationships to implement growth in the county and broader region
-commit to protection of natural heritage system
-plan for sufficient supply and mix of housing types and densities that integrate housing that is affordable -integrate climate change measures in planning policies
Gibson Gallery seeks return of Holiday Artisan Shoppe signage
By Ron Giofu
The disappearance of signs advertising their Holiday Artisan Shoppe has left the Gibson Gallery looking for answers.
Yard signs for the Holiday Artisan Shoppe, which opened last Thursday at the gallery, went missing over the course of the last couple of weeks.
The event has been running for the last 15 years in late November and into December.
“The signs went up Nov. 4. We put up about 35 in high traffic routes and tourist areas,” said David Cozens, president of the Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts.
The guild is the board that oversees the operation of the Gibson Gallery.
Cozens said many of the signs were on private property or on private fences, with the owner’s permission. Others went on town right-of-ways. Signs were placed in areas ranging from Lowes Side Road to the south to Middle Side Road (County Road 10) to the north.
“Starting Nov. 5, about three to four signs started to go missing each night,” said Cozens. “It continued right up until this week and 30 signs have been stolen.”
The cost of the signs are $9 apiece. Cozens said a report has been filed with the Windsor Police Service –Amherstburg Detachment and the hope is the gallery can recover the signs.
“Anyone with information or security camera coverage that can help police, please contact them,” said Cozens.
The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment confirmed the report has been filed, with Staff Sgt. Bryan Hayes stating people with information
The Diary of Death
by John Schlarbaum
Iare asked to contact the detachment’s criminal investigation division at 519-736-8559. The public can also contact Crime Stoppers at 519-258-TIPS (8477) or www.catchcrooks.com.
Cozens said he checked with the Town of Amherstburg to see if a town staff member had picked them up but was told no one from the municipality had removed them.
“The Gibson Gallery is a not-for-profit group operated by dedicated volunteers,” said Cozens. “We work hard to provide art exhibits and classes for children and adults.”
The Holiday Artisan Shoppe is described as an “indoor Art by the River” and features numerous vendors trying to sell their crafts and artwork.
“It’s hard to understand why anyone would spend so much effort to sabotage our holiday sale,” said Cozens. “Not only is this financially damaging to the Gibson Gallery, but also to 40-plus artists that have work in the show for sale.”
Book Review
n 1874, Dr. Samuels was robbed and murdered. Even though rumours run through small town Amherstburg, the murderer is never identified. In 2024, a diary is unearthed that could finally solve the 150-yearold mystery. The news sends the descendants of the town’s original families into chaos trying to find out if they are responsible for the murder and if their money is tainted. The diary is stolen and the local historian disappears. Can P.I. Steve Cassidy and his girlfriend Dawn solve all the mysteries in time? An exciting new local book that everyone will love!
Cozens said the public is encouraged to promote the shoppe through social media.
“We need your help,” said Cozens.
The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg and is open Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on the Gibson Gallery and what it offers, call 519-736-2826 or visit www.gibsongallery.org.
The Holiday Artisan Shoppe runs through Dec. 8.
For She Is Wrath
by Emily Varga
“A thousand djin could disguise you from me and I’d still be able to find you, just by the sound of your breath.” A wonderful Pakistani YA retelling of the classic The Count of Monte Cristo. The story will envelop you in a world of magic, revenge, friendship, family and love. I loved the female narrative. Dania is the type of heroine you love to root for. She is intelligent, skilled, and tough but beneath her toughness is a loyal and caring person who will fight for herself and those she loves.
Reviewed by Cindy, Bookseller at River Bookshop
Reviewed by Cindy, Bookseller at River Bookshop
About 30 signs promoting the Gibson Gallery’s Holiday Artisan Shoppe were recently stolen, though a few remain (left). The gallery is decked out for the annual event.
No injuries, one person displaced after Edgewater Beach fire
By Ron Giofu
Amherstburg firefighters attended a fire in the Edgewater Beach area last Wednesday night that left one person displaced, but uninjured.
The fire on Shangri-La St. saw all three stations respond, with fire chief Michael Mio stating 37 staff were on scene with eight apparatuses
“The cause we have right now is accidental,” said Mio, noting it is being classified as undetermined.
The Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM) is not investigating, the chief added.
The call came in at 6:22 p.m., he stated.
“We were on scene just over four hours,” said Mio.
The fire chief added some firefighters were attending a car accident and when they were finished there, they joined
their colleagues at the fire call.
In addition to no civilian injuries, Mio stated no firefighters were injured while battling the blaze. There was not a damage estimate as of press time.
Mio added the person who lived in the home was displaced and will unfortunately not be able to go back for a while. There was fire and extensive smoke damage.
The resident was already outside upon arrival of the Amherstburg Fire Department, said Mio.
Mio said fire crews arrived to see smoke coming from the home, and he added no other homes were damaged as a result of the fire.
“We encourage everyone to check their smoke alarms and CO2 detectors and practice a good escape plan to know what to do if you have to get out of your home,” said Mio.
River Lights Winter Festival underway
Continued from Page 1
The town’s parks and facilities department were thanked by Gibb as well.
“None of this would happen without the boots on the ground who put everything up,” he stated.
There are over 50 volunteers helping to present River Lights this year, he said.
“Amherstburg has to have the best group of volunteers in Windsor-Essex County,” said Gibb.
Gibb thanked the sponsors, including Seasons Amherstburg, Pathway to Potential, Tim Horton’s and ERCA, the latter presenting the Super Santa Walk, Run and Wheel.
Gibb highlighted Enbridge, who sponsored the festival for the 11th straight year. This year’s donation was $22,000.
Ian Robertson, supervisor of solar operations, brought greetings from Enbridge. He pointed out he brought his family from Sarnia for the event.
Robertson said Enbridge enjoys the sense of community River Lights brings.
“When I look around, I see the true definition of community,” he said. “When I look around, I see a Hallmark event.”
The Pathway to Potential Gingerbread Warming House in Toddy Jones Park is open FridaySunday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. through Dec. 22.
More information on River Lights can be found at www.visitamherstburg. ca. The Santa Shoutout is Dec. 13 at 6 p.m.
The Santa Claus Parade, presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation, is this Saturday (Nov. 23) at 6 p.m.
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The Amherstburg Fire Department responded to a fire call on Shangri-La St. last Wednesday night.
Fireworks were part of the River Lights opening ceremony (above) while carollers sang (middle). Crowds pack the parkette (below). Bottom image courtesy of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography.
“Christmas on the Farm” comes to Amherstburg
By Fred Groves
Santa and Mrs. Claus have been visiting the Amherstburg area already and one of their first stops was at the Malden Centre of Sarah Parks Horsemanship Farm this past weekend.
In partnership with the Windsor Parade Corporation, there was certainly lots to do beginning Friday night and running until Sunday afternoon at the farm that dates back to 1850.
“It brings me so much joy to show this homestead and have experiences on the farm,” said Parks, who is the sixth generation to live at the County Road 20 location.
Those who came to see the more than 20 horses and ponies at the popular destination also experienced a Vendor Market, entertainment by Alysia Therrien on Friday and Saturday followed up by music from By Looking Back Band on Sunday.
Parks was the host on the weekend
showing everyone around the farm, answering questions and noting that the weekend was about horses, heritage and the homestead. She said not very often do people get to experience it.
“These are far and few between. That is the important part of this.”
Up in the hay mow of the barn, Mrs. Claus delighted listeners to a story and of course Santa leaned in with
great attention hearing requests for Christmas.
“This is the first time having a Christmas on the Farm event. Having the opportunity to partner with the Parade Corporation enables me to bring a unique Christmas experience to the farm,” said Parks.
A somewhat similar event was held last year at the Canadian Transportation
Local market action
The recent “Glitter & Gold” market at the AMA Sportsmen’s Club helped raise money for the club’s youth programs and Kids Curing Cancer (KCC).
Organizer Mary Lippert stands with Ty and Lauren Baillargeon from KCC (left). The town presented a Holiday Market in the community room of the Libro Centre last Saturday. Andrea Descargar and Kathy Mirhi from Golden Ground Café were among the vendors as were Sue and Lexie Hancock of Snuggle Up Books and Blankets (middle and right, respectively). Recreation co-ordinator Emily O’Reilly said they had 15 vendors overall. She added they hope to present the Holiday Market next year.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Museum and Heritage Village but this year, with the support of a $20,000 grant from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, it came directly to a local farm.
“It’s a hands-on experience. They get to pet the horses and ride the ponies.”
One of the activities to participate in is the Elf School in the Club House. Busy keeping an eye on everyone was the head elf herself, Holly with her assistant Jolly. Holly was also doing her duties as one of Santa’s helpers last year.
When asked just what is learned in Elf School, Holly replied, “we learn to be kind and caring. We make ornaments and get new elf names and write letters to Santa.”
Christmas on the Farm runs Nov. 22, 24, 29 and 30 as well as Dec. 6,8,13, 15. Parking is at Malden Centre Park with a shuttle to the farm.
For more information, contact Sarah Parks Horsemanship at 519-984-4247.
Mrs. Claus reads a story in the hayloft (left) while Emma Walton and her mother Kristen had a chuckle with Santa Claus (above).
Large crowd at dinner helps Hope of St. Joseph Shelters in D.R. Congo
By Ron Giofu
A packed house at Coachwood Golf & Country Club in McGregor helped three shelters in Africa.
The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. - a corporation that assists Father Donato Lwiyando in caring for boys and girls at three shelters in Bukavu, D.R. Congo - presented a fundraising dinner Sunday night with a large crowd coming out to not only enjoy the chicken and pasta meal, but also to donate at the dessert table, bid on a wide selection of silent auction prizes and provide donations in other ways.
“It’s so important to keep the momentum going for Father Donato and the children,” said corporation president Larry Allen. “It’s so necessary we have the support of the charity.”
Allen outlined the background of the corporation, which started when Father Donato was stationed in Amherstburg for three years as a missionary priest.
“In our social justice group, we got to hear what was happening in his hometown of Bukavu,” said Allen.
Prior to the shelter being founded, young girls were getting raped, abandoned and were working in brothels. Many were homeless and had no place to go until Father Donato founded the shelter.
Father Donato would leave Amherstburg and is now back in the D.R. Congo operating the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter and the two others that have been created since his return, with the shelters expanding into accepting boys.
The Hope of St. Joseph corporation in Canada received charitable status and Allen said they are making great strides in helping children and building shelters and schools in the African nation. The board meets monthly and decides where money goes and how to fulfill Father Donato’s wishes.
A giant yard sale had been held for many years at the Middle Side Road home of Marc and Mary Beneteau, but that was discontinued this year due to health concerns. Mary, who is secretary with the Hope of St. Joseph Inc., said “this dinner has been amazing.”
Mary regularly corresponds with Father Donato, with the latter trying to get over a stomach ailment. Videos
sent from Father Donato were shown at the dinner, including one of young homeless children being taken to jail.
“Food is not provided in jail,” said Mary, though some family members do take food to children if they can.
While some children do steal, many are simply taken to jail because they are street kids, she added.
“Father Donato says the reason many go to jail is because they are homeless, they don’t have money and the new mayor doesn’t want street people,” she said.
Father Donato wants to take in more children but can’t as the shelters are at capacity. One of the videos showed an addition going up. Current capacity at one of the shelters has gone from 26 to 34 children.
“Father’s heart aches because they are crying to be taken in and there’s no more room,” said Mary.
Videos were shown of children and youth working in fields growing crops and vegetables to feed them. In the video, Father Donato thanked those in attendance for their support.
opportunity to youth in the D.R. Congo. Children can now go to school, bake bread, learn to sew and build a better life.
“He emphasizes they are not at the shelters by choice but are grateful to be there,” said Mary.
The cost to sponsor a child is $25 per month or $300 for a year.
“The money is one pot. For that reason, the kids can have a lot of sponsors,” she said. “It doesn’t matter how many sponsors they have.”
Ending the huge yard sale was “heavy on our hearts,” Mary added, but “Marc and I can’t do it anymore.” The hope is that additional sponsorships will offset the revenue they will lose.
For more information on the charity, visit please visit www.hopeislife.ca.
“I would like to thank you so much for what you are doing for the kids and for us,” he stated. “We pray God will thank you and reward you for everything you are doing for us.”
Mary added support being generated locally gives
Larry Allen, president of the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc., holds up bags of rice and beans that are used to feed “street kids” in the D.R. Congo. A fundraising dinner was held Sunday night.
A packed house at Coachwood Golf and Country Club supported the Hope of St. Joseph Inc. charity fundrasing dinner last Sunday night. Proceeds benefit three youth shelters in the D.R. Congo.
Event proceeds benefit local conservation projects
Continued from Page 1
Breault-Stuebing pointed out that roughly $20,000 was raised for regional conservation projects in what was a record year.
The Essex Region Conservation Foundation will be undertaking a new strategic plan next year but the end result of the donation will end up back in the community, Breault-Stuebing noted.
“I’m happy as a board member because it’s going back into conservation, which I love,” said Allaire. “I am happy as a person because of all the people that came to town. We ran out of Santa suits.”
Breault-Stuebing said the participants along with their families and friends came to Amherstburg and she hoped it will lead to big things for the local business community.
“I think there is a real opportunity for the business community to capitalize on this,” she believed.
There were not only participants from around Windsor-Essex County that took part in the Super Santa Run, Walk &
Wheel, but Breault-Stuebing said there were entrants from the Greater Toronto Area, Michigan, London, Niagara-onthe-Lake and Sarnia.
“People are travelling in from outof-town for this event,” said BreaultStuebing. “It’s great for the town. It’s great for the local business community.”
Having stores and restaurants open and engaging with guests can help everyone, she believed.
“It’s a really great opportunity to grow the event,” said Breault-Stuebing.
Both Allaire and Breault-Stuebing noted the race was for people of all ages and abilities, with Allaire stating there were those in wheelchairs able to take part. They said having the event be inclusive of everyone is a priority.
Allaire thanked all of the volunteers with Breault-Stuebing adding there were over 50 involved. She said without their support and that of the Amherstburg community, the event wouldn’t have gone as well as it did.
More photos are on the RTT’s website and social media sites.
Runners, walkers and those in wheelchairs went through Navy Yard Park (left) before crossing the finish line (above).
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, put aside any errant musings and give important tasks your utmost attention this week. Energy is better spent on others, so keep this in mind when you get busy.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, your coworkers are all excited and fussing over a new development. Maintain an even keel as you assess the situation. You can be curious, but be guarded as well.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, your love life is in a really good place this week, which enables you to spend some quality time with your special someone. A romantic dinner sounds like a good plan.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Your partner is the most important person in your life right now, Cancer. So much so that this week every bit of your attention will be focused his or her way.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, money could be burning a hole in your pocket, so you might want to go on a spending spree. Keep in mind that there are a few big-ticket purchases waiting in the wings.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
You don’t always have to be decisive, Virgo. Sometimes you can kick back and let someone else make decisions for a change. This is a great way to rest and recharge.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
A few jobs need to get done, Libra. But afterwards you should have plenty of time for some social interaction, whether that be attending a party or simply enjoying a night out.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, think about the things you want instead of what other people want. It’s alright to be a little selfish once in a while and put yourself first for a change.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, you could have fun this week and so may all the other people around you simply for being in your presence. This situation will continue in the days ahead.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, the next challenge on your list could be a big one. But if there is anyone who can handle the pressure, it is you. Don’t be afraid to call on friends if you need them.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, go out into the world and try a few new things. Your social energy and curiosity might peak this week, and you’ll need new experiences to feel satisfied.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Your finances might need an overhaul, Pisces. This could mean taking a new job or expanding what you’re doing to earn more. Start putting out feelers to gain information.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
NOVEMBER 17 - Danny Devito, Actor (80)
NOVEMBER 18 - Owen Wilson, Actor (56)
NOVEMBER 19 - Calvin Klein, Designer (82)
NOVEMBER 20 - Jeremy Jordan, Actor (40)
NOVEMBER 21 - Carly Rae Jepsen, Singer (39)
NOVEMBER 22 - Hailey Bieber, Model (28)
NOVEMBER 23 - Miley Cyrus, Singer (32)
ABC
Christmas turkeys sponsored by company
By Ron Giofu
A local company has stepped up to assist the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Museum at the holiday season.
ABC Technology in Amherstburg is donating money to purchase the turkeys for their Christmas lunch this year and is also donating 32 Christmas food baskets - turkey with all the trimmings - for some our families in need.
Representatives from the company were at the mission last Wednesday afternoon to present a cheque valued at $3,250 to mission president Tim McAllister and volunteer board member Jill Kanwischer.
Tim Rebidoux, an employee with ABC Technology, said his wife was a volunteer with the mission and “she told me about it and how Tim is always running around.” He was joined by Doug Shaw and Nathan Salvati at last Wednesday’s cheque presentation.
After talking to plant management, they and the union representing the workers made the presentation. Shaw
noted they have made charitable donations since ABC Technologies purchased what was formerly Windsor Mold, and staff were willing to get behind the donation to the mission.
McAllister said the mission was connected with ABC Technologies and made the donation happen.
“I’m excited about the whole situation,” said McAllister.
The mission president was getting worried because as the holiday season gets closer, it means donations have to be found and turkeys have to be purchased for the Christmas dinner. Now, with the donation from ABC Technology, it caused his stress to diminish.
“It makes my sleep come easier,” he said with a smile.
The Christmas turkey dinner is held at 12 noon Dec. 25. It is open to the entire community and free of charge.
The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is located at 298 Victoria St. S. For more information, call 519-7369140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE # 1 CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT MCGREGOR SEWAGE SYSTEM UPGRADES
The Town of Amherstburg, in partnership with the Town of Essex, is undertaking a study for the McGregor Lagoon Sewage Treatment Facility and Collection System. In general, the study objective is to determine an environmentally responsible and costeffective solution to address the need for additional wastewater treatment capacity in the community.
The Town is hosting a Public Information Centre (PIC) to present the project background and evaluation of alternative design solutions for the McGregor Sewage System. Consultation is an integral part of the EA process and members of the public, agencies, and other interested persons are invited to participate in the upcoming PIC.
Following the PIC, comments are welcomed and will be received until January 3rd, 2025.
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to cooking.
Information regarding this Environmental Assessment can also be found on the Town’s Project Website: https://www.talktheburg.ca/mcgregorea
For further information regarding this project, please contact: Todd Hewitt Manager of Engineering Project Manager, Town of Amherstburg 512 Sandwich Street South Amherstburg, Ontario, N9V 3R2 519-736-3664 thewitt@amherstburg.ca
Chrissy Jung, P. Eng. Windsor Treatment Team Lead Environmental Engineer, Stantec Consulting 2555 Ouellette Avenue, Suite 100 Windsor, Ontario, N8X 1L9 226-704-3037 chrissy.jung@stantec.com
From left: mission board member Jill Kanwischer, Doug Shaw, mission president Tim McAllister, Nathan Salvati and Tim Rebidoux.
Wolves blanked in WECSSAA championship bowl game
By Ron Giofu
It was a very good season for the North Star Wolves senior football team but it didn’t end the way they wanted it to.
The Wolves lost only two games all season, both to the L’Essor Eagles, but the second of the two losses was in last Saturday night’s St. Clair College Saints Bowl. That game, played at Acumen Stadium on the main campus of St. Clair College, saw L’Essor win 17-0 to capture the WECSSAA Tier 2 championship
North Star and L’Essor entered the game with identical 6-1 regular season records with the Wolves’ lone loss coming in October to L’Essor at the Libro Centre. The Wolves tried to get their revenge but, despite moving the ball at points, couldn’t hit the scoreboard.
The game didn’t see its first points until the final play of the first half when L’Essor kicked a 35-yard field goal. A four-yard run in the third quarter made it 10-0 for L’Essor and they added a one-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to round out the scoring.
Ashton Fevreau, a star all season for the Wolves, was his team’s player of the game.
“It’s definitely a tough loss,” said Fevreau.
Fevreau said he was happy to play with the North Star football program this year. He expressed pride at the work they did as a team in 2024.
“I wouldn’t want to do it with a different bunch of guys,” he said. “It
was a great season. I loved playing with this group. We had a lot of success, we grew up and matured as a group. I love this team.”
With an eye already towards next season, Fevreau said the goal is to get back to the championship game and win it.
North Star head coach Joel Charron believed the loss was something that fell on his shoulders.
“I feel like I failed the kids,” he said. “I thought we played great defensively.
We couldn’t find a rhythm on offense and that’s on me. This stings.”
Even though the Wolves were shut out, Charron did see a lot of things he liked in Saturday night’s championship game.
“I thought we played the best game we’ve played all year,” he said. “(The loss) is a tough pill to swallow.”
Steven Craner returned after missing the last two games with a knee injury and Charron thought it was one of his best games.
The North Star football program has come a long way in the last few years, Charron noted.
“I’m proud of how this program has progressed,” he said.
Coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the team won one game that year. Last year, they won four games and their bowl game and this year they had six wins and made it to the championship game.
Stating L’Essor had a lot of senior players, Charron added the Wolves are a mixed team with Grade 9 players right up through Grade 12. He said they made history this season and only graduate about nine players.
“We’ve got our core back (next season),” he said. “(L’Essor) is a strong, experienced team. We just ran into a better team today, that’s all.”
Admirals blasted by Sharks, dismiss coaches after the game
By Fred Groves
Four games in seven nights took its toll on a tired Amherstburg Admirals team last Wednesday night, falling 7-0 to Wheatley.
With the loss to the Sharks, the Admirals are now at .500 as their Provincial Junior Hockey League West Stobbs Division sits at 8-8-1-0. They took that into Essex last night (Nov. 19) where they faced the 73’s.
At the conclusion of last Thursday’s game, Amherstburg dismissed some of its coaches.
“The Admirals have parted ways with head coach Beau Hunter and assistant coach Jim Hunter. Zack Gervais remains as an assistant coach while we search for the new head coach to lead this hockey team,” said Amherstburg general manager Andrew Sykes through a text message.
Beau Hunter was in his second year with the local club. Last season the Admirals went 10-32-0-0, finishing sixth in the division and 23 points behind fifth place Mooretown.
The Admirals were bounced in the first round of the playoffs by Blenheim.
Asked by the River Town Times specifically why Beau and Jim Hunter were dismissed, Sykes responded in a text, “we felt we needed a different voice to lead an outstanding group of players.”
As of press time, the Admirals have not announced
a new head coach.
Departing the Admirals, Beau Hunter said he was notified of his dismissal by Sykes. According to Hunter, there was a difference of opinion on how the team, which was in a hunt for third place in the division, was being coached.
“In our (coaches) mind we had a team that can win. Sykes wants to rebuild,” said Hunter. Hunter also felt there was too much interference from the GM when it came to what players should be
on the ice adding that the GM, “wanted to develop the 12th, 13th and 14th forwards.”
Last Wednesday in Wheatley, it took just 17 seconds for former Admiral Kyle Bleau to put the host Sharks on the board. The previous Sunday at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg, it was Bleau who was denied the tying goal by netminder Russell Vaughan in a 1-0 shutout win for the locals.
It was 2-0 after and 4-0 at the end of 40 minutes.
Bleau had a pair of goals for the winners, while former Admiral Stefan Jacobs led the way with two tallies and a helper.
Also scoring was another for Amherstburg standout, Owen Papulkas along with Vito Alfano and Seth Zylstra.
It’s off to Walpole Island on Thursday where the Admirals will look to get a little payback against the Wild who won in a dramatic shootout recently.
After that, Amherstburg will get a much deserved nine-day break before they host the Blenheim Blades Nov. 30.
SLAPSHOTS — Six Admirals have played in all 19 regular season games thus far – Brett Jones (6-11-17), Drew Booker (5-11-16), rookie Rory Sandison (10-515), Dallas Kelly (1-10-11), Brady Drouillard (5-5-10) and Dary Drouillard (2-4-6)… Veteran defenceman Jadyn Brown continues to move up the all-time most games played for an Admiral as he has played in 121 regular season games.
Ashton Fevreau of the North Star Wolves rushes the ball during the first half of last Saturday night’s WECSSAA Tier 2 championship game at St. Clair College. L’Essor defeated North Star 17-0.
Admirals’ head coach Beau Hunter (left) and assistant coach Jim Hunter, have been dismissed by the local Junior C club.
North Star quarterback Sawyer Krokos scrambles as he looks for a receiver last Saturday night.
Community Calendar
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
BOOK SIGNING; Being held at the Marsh Historical Collection (80 Richmond St.) from 7-9 p.m. “The Lives that Touched Belle Vue Amherstburg” by Debra Honor being sold, with Honor being there to greet people. Cost of book is $20. For information, call 519-736-9191.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
TRIVIA NIGHT; Presented by the Marsh Historical Collection. Held at Shooters Roadhouse starting at 7 p.m. $25 per team, maximum five players per team. Contact Meg to register, 519736-9191 or research@marshcollection.org. November is a numbers game – general trivia but every answer is a number!
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29
TOONIE AUCTION; Held at Harrow United Church, 45 Munger Ave. East in Harrow. BBQ dinner $10 or $30 per family, served from 5:30-6:30 p.m., auction starts at 7 p.m. Free admission. Bring your toonies and come for a night of fun and fellowship! Donations of baskets greatly appreciated. Chance to win two Windsor Spitfire tickets. For more info, call the church at 519-738-4223 or Laura at 519-982-2684.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
MODEL RAILWAY OPEN HOUSE; The Windsor Model Railway Club hosting open house from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Market Square, located at Walker Road and Ottawa St. in Windsor (second floor). Admission is free. Come and see two large model train layouts – N scale and HO scale.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
TURKEY BINGO; Being held at St. Joseph Church in River Canard (9399 Townline Road). Doors open at 6 p.m., bingo starts at 7 p.m. Admission $5. Ten regular rounds, two share the wealth rounds, one basket round. Awesome and many door prizes, 50/50 draw. Kitchen open, serving hot dogs, chips, pop, coffee, tea. Come on out and joint the fun. We still mark the cards with corn kernels.
ONGOING
STUFF-A-FIRE TRUCK GIFT AND TOY DRIVE; Donations of unwrapped gifts for kids and teens of all ages being accepted at Canadian Tire in Amherstburg, Movati Amherstburg, Joe Meloche Ford Sales and Caffeine & Co., as well all of the “Big Toy Dump” locations. Presented by the Amherstburg Fire Association.
LOLA’S PAJAMA FAIRY PROJECT; Donations being accepted at the Libro Centre. Lola’s Pajama Fairy Project also accepting donations at Remax Preferred Realty and Seasons Retirement Home in Amherstburg of new pajamas for those in need.
WINTER HAT AND COAT DRIVE; Presented by the Windsor Police – Amherstburg Detachment, the Windsor Police COAST program and the Amherstburg Fire Association. Donations can be made at the Libro Centre and police station, third box will rotate around the community (it will be at Bucket List Café and Roastery Nov. 20 for Coffee with a Cop at 1 p.m.). Runs through Nov. 20. Items will be distributed to local families, schools and organizations in Amherstburg.
COATS FOR KIDS DISTRIBUTION; Amherstburg Community Services (ACS), Team Brad Bondy, Cintas and the Unemployed Help Centre (UHC) holding annual “Coats for Kids” drive. Distribution for coats will be at Encounter Church, which is located at 125 Alma St. in Amherstburg. Dates and times for distribution are Nov. 13 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 14 from 4-6 p.m. and Nov. 15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners are required Monday-Friday from 2-4 p.m. to mop floors and to clean bathrooms, countertops, tables, carts, etc. Dishwashers are needed Monday-Friday 1-3 p.m. to wash dishes, pots and pans. Maintenance people are needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Commitment is one day or more per week, on a regular basis. If interested or for more info, send e-mail to aburgmission@ yahoo.com.
ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call Susanne at 519990-2775.
CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; Christmas on the Farm, presented Nov. 15, 16, 17, 22, 24, 29 and 30 and Dec. 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, needs volunteers. Event being held at Sarah Parks Horsemanship. Positions include costume characters, assistants for Santa & Mrs. Claus, Elf School, campfire and more. Hours are Friday 6-8 p.m., Saturday 4-8 p.m., Sunday 12-4 p.m. E-mail windsorparadecorporation@ gmail.com with availability.
SERVICE TIME CHANGE; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., is changing the times of their Sunday service. There is now one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.
MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.
COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. still has bingos every Thursday night and fish fries (with chicken as well) on Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties start back up in September.
AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall on Pickering across from Walmart.
GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong and bridge and line dancing. Club also crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three special luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www. goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.
FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” and help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@ bryerswood.com.
LIGHTHOUSE CHURCH EVENTS; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. Everyone welcome. No registration required. Church is also offering divorce care
recovery sessions for 13 weeks, running every Wednesday from 6:30-8 p.m. starting Sept. 18. No charge to attend, $20 to buy the workbook. Lighthouse Church is also showing “The Chosen” every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Free to attend, everyone welcome. Popcorn will be served. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).
MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-8008640.
MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission. ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.
ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors welcome. We are on Facebook!
ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@ bryerswood.com.
BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit www. amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.
AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located
CTMHV celebrates OTF funding used for improvements at the site
By Ron Giofu
A project at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village has concluded and the use of OTF funding was acknowledged last week.
The team with the museum was joined by Essex MPP Anthony Leardi last Thursday evening to celebrate a $150,000 capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The money funded an initiative to improve education, community engagement and accessibility at the Arner Townline site.
“I’m very excited to see the results of the grant,” said Leardi. “I’m very happy to see it.”
Leardi added: “Thanks to the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village will be able to create an immersive blacksmith exhibit, and make their facility more accessible for everyone. Everyone should bring their family to see the cars at the museum, and tour the Heritage Village.”
Following remarks in a pavilion in the village, a ribbon cutting was held in the new blacksmith lodge, with the cabin being donated by Robert Blais and his family. A demonstration was also held by blacksmith
Chad Bonifazi.
Karolina Brozy, curator of the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village, outlined how the upgrades are helping with the thousands of visitors and students they get at the site. She noted they had one year to complete the work as a condition of the grant.
Making the village and the museum accessible to more people was a priority, with Brozy stating a number of buildings were upgraded. The grant funded the new blacksmith shop for educational programs, upgrading of the bathrooms for accessibility purposes, upgraded lighting fixtures, added eight ramps to historic buildings, addressing structural repairs to protect building longevity and provided for a bilingual audio tour to assist those with hearing impairments.
Brozy also pointed out new video equipment will allow the museum to “expand our reach to those who can’t visit us in-person.” She noted volunteers have put in 1,344 hours towards educational programs at the site this year.
“We want to thank the OTF for its support,” she said. “With these updates, we’re excited to welcome more visitors of all abilities and ensure they enjoy a safe, comfortable and inclusive experience. Our programs and facilities are now more accessible and these enhancements will allow us to continue preserving and sharing our local heritage.”
For more information about the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village, please visit www.ctmhv.com.
Local Business Directory
Essex MPP Anthony Leardi (right) cuts the ribbon at the new blacksmith shop at Heritage Village. With him are curator Karolina Brozy, board chair Les McDonald and donor Robert Blais.
CALL 519-736-4175 OR
DOG GROOMING
LISA’S DOG WASH; Baths & Haircuts in a stressfree environment. One on one service. All breeds welcome! $10 OFF first groom! Call or TXT Lisa 519-965-0781 Open 9am9pm
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
FOR RENT
CASA BLANCA & BELLA VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise. Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.
EVENT SPACE FOR RENT
HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-736-6096 or Doris @ 519-734-8154
“ARE YOU SAVED?”
That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110
PEST AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.
FOR SALE 6-PIECE WALKIE-TALKIE WITH CHARGER. Ultimate Christmas gift. $100 please call Roy at 519-736-5368
Vivace Estate Winery Light finger foods will be provided and local wine will be available for purchase. Stop in anytime between 1-4pm with best wishes only.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER
