Living History Festival blends eras past and present
By Ron Giofu
Military history of yesterday and today was on display last Saturday at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada.
Fort Malden presented its Living History Festival with re-enactors dating back to the Roman Empire to modern-day military members and a wide variety of re-enactors from eras in between joining the War of 1812 re-enactors that usually call Fort Malden home.
Corrine Ross, visitor experience team leader at Fort Malden, stated they had Indigenous representation as well from the Caldwell First Nation. There were also people in attendance from the Canadian Transportation Museum, the Gibson Gallery, United Empire Loyalists, Southern Ontario Military Muster, and Belle Vue.
“This is expanding on our military history to include other heritage organizations as well,” explained Ross. “We’ve got a lot of eras covered.”
Members of the public enjoy coming through the grounds of Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada to learn more about history, Ross added.
“It’s a chance for people to experience it,” she said, adding they learn from people who lived like the soldiers did in previous times. There were also displays that people could see and touch.
“These re-enactors are eager to speak to people and answer questions,” said Ross. “They are experts on their timelines.”
Different technologies were on display including how to cook over open fire to weapons demonstrations. Such things as musket firings and artillery displays are unique to sites like Fort Malden, she indicated.
RTT
“You can’t see this everywhere,” said Ross. “Not every historic site does this.” The interest from the public “gives us the energy” to keep organizing the events, she said, as the public that attend show genuine interest and are engaged. She added there are people that attended as children that come back with their own kids, citing a person from Hamilton who used to attend Fort Malden as a youth.
Continued on Page 9
Re-enactors of the No. 34 Battalion parade near the start of the Living History Festival last Saturday at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada (above). A number of different military eras were depticted during an artillery demonstration last Saturday afternoon (right).
PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Emancipation Celebration marked by Amherstburg Freedom Museum
By Ron Giofu
Emancipation Day is regularly marked every August with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum helping celebrate it.
The museum held its annual Emancipation Celebration dinner and dance last Friday night at the Hellenic Cultural Centre in Windsor. Emancipation Day, which is actually Aug. 1, marks when slavery was abolished in the British Colonies in 1834 by King William IV, pursuant to the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833.
The theme of this year's event was "Jazz Age Jubilee."
Amherstburg Freedom Museum
president Monty Logan and vice president Barbara Porter both acknowledged not only the celebration of emancipation but the museum’s upcoming 50th anniversary.
“We are celebrating our 50th year in 2025,” Porter pointed out.
Porter said the Emancipation Celebration is one of the ways they are keeping Mac Simpson’s dream alive, which is to showcase the extensive Black history in the area. Simpson and his wife Betty co-founded the museum.
The museum helps tell the stories of the Underground Railroad and the people who sought freedom in Canada with the collection helping to educate the public, Porter noted.
“We are celebrating the 190th anniversary of emancipation in Canada,” said Logan. “We’ve got a lot to be happy about. We’re not where we want to be but we’re a lot better than where we used to be. We have to keep on going.”
Logan said the museum looks forward
to celebrating its 50th year “of educating our community” and sharing what their ancestors have accomplished. He pointed out the recent visit by Speaker of the House of Commons Greg Fergus, with Logan stating he invited Fergus to attend when he was in Ottawa for a conference. Fergus is the first Black Speaker in Canadian history.
“It was an excellent event,” he said of Fergus’ visit. “One of the most important people in Canada came to visit our museum.”
The Amherstburg Freedom Museum is important in Amherstburg and
beyond, he noted, and events like the Emancipation Celebration help keep it going. Logan said roughly ten per cent of the museum’s funding comes through government support with the rest being generated by the museum itself.
“We continue to need (the community’s) support,” he said. “These events help pay the bills.”
Logan thanked current and past board members for their support as well as the spouses for the sacrifices they have made.
The Emancipation Celebration featured the annual presentation of the Legacy Hero Award, which this year went to E. Andrea Moore. According to her biography, Moore was an employee of CIBC for over 20 years but is best known for her community service, which included preserving Black heritage.
Moore was a founding member of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum,
then known as the North American Black Historical Museum. Her extensive work in preserving history also includes working towards international monuments marking the Underground Railroad, being actively involved in the Congress of Black Women, founder and first president of the Essex County Black Historical Research Society, helped establish Black history tours at Sandwich First Baptist Church, working towards recognition for the McDougall St. corridor, being involved with the Hour-A-Day Study Club, member of the Royal Canadian Legion and being a board member with the Windsor and District Black Coalition.
Moore was also a contributor to the Sankofa News, a Black newspaper that used to be published in Windsor. She was also key in forming the Southwestern Ontario Black Community Forum, was a trustee in her church and a Sunday school teacher. Moore received honours such as the Lieutenant Governor’s Ontario Heritage Award and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award.
The award was presented posthumously, with Moore’s daughter Irene Moore Davis accepting on her behalf. Davis noted her mother was passionate about history and heritage. She commented on her mother’s “relentless determination” and spent “countless volunteer hours” devoted to research and history.
“She wanted to be part of the North American Black Historical Museum as soon as it started,” said Davis. Moore was known for collaborating with people and bringing them together, Davis stated.
“She was very much about collaboration, she was gifted at building partnerships,” she said. “She was extremely persuasive. She wanted us to do more together. She loved her family. She loved telling her family stories. She understood she stood on the shoulders of giants. I am so grateful to be raised by her.”
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• 72% report poor sleep due to tinnitus
• 73% report that tinnitus reduces their
masking and behavioral therapy.
Irene Moore Davis (right) accepts the Legacy Hero Award on behalf of her late mother E. Andrea Moore during last Friday night's Emancipation Celebration. Making the presentation is Amherstburg Freedom Museum vice president Barbara Porter (left).
Local woman wins second prize in Lotto 6/49 draw
By Ron Giofu
An Amherstburg woman is richer by over $78,000 thanks to a second place lottery win, the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) announced last Wednesday.
The OLG stated Amherstburg resident Laresa Grondin can “find her possible” after winning a Lotto 6/49 second prize worth $78,261.10 in the July 6, 2024 Lotto 6/49 draw.
“Lotto 6/49 offers players a chance to win two multi-million dollar jackpots every Wednesday and Saturday, for the same $3 per play,” the OLG stated in a news release. “The Classic Draw offers a fixed $5 million jackpot for every draw, while the Gold Ball Draw guarantees a $1 million prize, or the growing jackpot that starts at $10 million and can exceed $60 million.”
The winning ticket was purchased at Canadian Tire Gas+ on Sandwich St. S. in Amherstburg.
The OLG states it supports safe play and that it is promoting responsible gambling with its PlaySmart program.
Bryerswood hosting popular summer camps
By Ron Giofu
Youth camps have returned to Bryerswood Youth Camp this summer and they have proven to be very popular.
The most recent camp was last week’s “Camp Chaos” with themes throughout the weeklong camp being based off television shows or adapted from television shows such as Survivor, Minute to Win It, the “Not So Fearful” Factor and the “Great Camp Race.” There was also a field trip to Point Pelee last Thursday.
“It’s been very busy, very warm but very active,” said Pam Zeman, a camp director at Bryerswood along with Caitlin Gonneau. “We have a total of about 40 kids this week.”
The total is an estimate with some children coming for the week while others came for a few days during the week.
“We managed to deal with the heat with a lot of water and freezies,” she said.
Zeman added the camps have done well with most selling out over the first three weeks with more sellouts anticipated over the final three weeks. There are six weeks of summer camp at Bryerswood with previous weeks carrying themes of “Fun Factory and ”So You Think You Can Camp?” with this week’s theme being “Superhero Training Academy.” Weeks five and six of summer camps, running the weeks of Aug. 12 and Aug. 19, see themes of “Fizz Bubble and Pop” and “Fun in the Sun.”
“We’ve had weeks where we’ve averaged 60 campers every day,” said Zeman. “We’ve doubled our numbers. Right now, this is our best year ever.”
Campers can earn beads signifying good deeds and accomplishments.
“It’s really important to them,” said Zeman. “We’ve had really good groups.”
Some campers even brought relatives to one of the camps, with young people from Denmark experiencing Bryerswood Youth Camp as part of their vacations.
Many of the young campers come back for several weeks, Zeman added.
Grant funding has allowed the hiring of eight camp counsellors, with most having some sort of educational schooling or training. Some are working towards being an Early Childhood Educator (ECE) or teachers.
Zeman added both her and Gonneau have tried to push the word of camps
August 5 to September 1 Come
at Bryerswood through word-of-mouth, social media and on their website.
Summer camps at Bryerswood cost $225 for a week or $50 per day. They are from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Bryerswood Youth Camp is located at 6480 Texas Road and more information is available at www.bryerswood.com or by calling 519-726-6266.
“Minute to Win It” games, such as trying to make a cookie move from their forehead into the mouths, was also one of the games area youth played last Friday at Bryerswood’s “Camp Chaos.”
OLG PHOTO
Laresa Grondin won $78,261.10 in a recent Lotto 6/49 draw.
Games have been popular with area youth over the summer at Bryerswood Youth Camp’s summer camps. Campers try to bounce ping pong balls into cups during “Camp Chaos” last Friday.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Helping out local non-profit organizations
Both the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission and Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) have been helped thanks to recent donations and acts of generosity. Rylee Brouyette, a four-year-old from Amherstburg, set up a lemonade stand during the recent Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show and donated the proceeds of $150 to Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, represented by president Tim McAllister (left). The mission also received a donation from an anonymous donor from Apostolic Christian Church Nazareen, who dropped off over $2,000 in non-perishable food items that the mission was running short on (above). ACS was assisted by a group of young women who put up a stand at the corner of Venetian and Alma. They made bracelets, refreshing drinks, candies and some other selections available for sale. They also collected non-perishable items for the ACS Food Bank (below).
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
ACS grateful for Canada Day run proceeds
To the organizers and participants of the Amherstburg Canada Day 5 km Run/ Walk/Wheel and Kids Dash, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you.
To those who donated, sponsored or participated, you raised over $24,000. Amazing!
Amherstburg is an amazing place to spend Canada Day and the WRACE event enhanced the sense of community spirit and left everyone energized for the
remainder of the day’s events.
As one of the three chosen charities of the event, we are grateful and honored with the donation of just over $8,100.
Your generosity will allow ACS to continue to provide services to Amherstburg for another 50 years.
—Kathy DiBartolomeo Amherstburg Community Services Executive Director
Resident appeciative of medical care
I have been laid up with a leg and bone infection since October.
I want to thank the nurse of Saint Elizabeth home care.
They were great!
—Murray Loomis Amherstburg
Create new transportation corridors
By adopting a new procedural bylaw, council has effectively shut down public participation in the political debate. For those citizens that feel our council hasn’t achieved anything, I differ. To their credit, they have achieved more than they promised by consecutive tax increases totalling 11.5 per cent in a one-year period.
Going back to our records, this is a first in our town’s recent history. They are only in the second year of their mandate. Their capacity to do better is immense. Their resilience and perseverance is to be commended. They can be effective in their time remaining. They can do bigger and better, like increasing our debt and the ability to pay for it.
We can only hope this time is not more than their previous record increases. They may not run the town bankrupt. If we are lucky, we can always pick up the pieces and believe in their capacity and ability to do better. We can always ask for divine intervention and ultimately a miracle and reverse their decision on our procedural bylaw and return to normalcy. We can only hope and pray and start listening to the citizens free of charge.
We cannot be a tenant in any future endeavor. Maintaining integrity and being fair and balanced in our decision-making is essential. Our transportation master plan under study is a good beginning. It lacks the foresight and vision for our future needs. It looks for a golden nugget. The town should start environmental assessments after public consultation. Creating a new corridor bridging existing roads to a new parkway is one option, from Concession 3 North to Howard Ave. It will serve our community well into the future, supporting any area in future development, taking residential and commercial traffic away from residential streets like Front Road North and others. It would create a direct route to south Windsor and reconnect to the major transportation network in which we have been left out. It is an ambitious undertaking to be done. In phases, using available infrastructure funds from federal and provincial governments, we can make this dream a reality. Only a suggestion.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please.
• We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We may also edit letters for any concerns relating to possible libel/slander issues.
• We reserve the right to not publish letters that we view inflammatory, inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific people, groups, religions, governments or ethnic organizations. Those rants are more suited to social media.
• We will gladly print letters commending specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.
• Please sign your letters and provide a phone number for verification or questions if we need to reach out to you.
• Anonymous letters are not printed as we cannot verify their origin.
—Frank Cerasa Amherstburg
Essex County Plowing Match makes stop in Amherstburg
By Ron Giofu
Farmers had a chance to test their skills against one another over the weekend at an Amherstburg farm. The Essex County Plowing Match competition was hosted last Saturday by Larry and Dan Pajot at the
farm on Concession 7 South. There was also a farm equipment show as part of the day.
Following the competition, participants, their families and organizers went to the awards dinner at the Harrow Fair Agricultural Hall.
“It’s the local plowing match,” said Essex County Plowmen’s Association president Lyle Hall. “We hold it every year. It circulates around the county, hosted by different farms.”
The plowing competition had several components to it that judges had to review, everything from cleanliness to straightness and more.
“This competitors compete in different age groups, different classes,” explained Hall.
There are pieces of field the competitors have to plow, with judges scoring the plowing out of a total of 200 points. An estimated 18 competitors, some in multiple classes, competed, though it was slightly down this year. Upwards of 24 competitors have been known to compete in previous years though inclement weather in other parts of Essex County last week may have negatively impacted attendance.
“They have to have a minimum of 125-130 points out of 200 to be able to go to the International Plowing Match,” said Hall. “The International Plowing Match is held all over Ontario.”
This year’s International Plowing Match will be held in Lindsay, Ontario this October, Hall added.
Hall said he has been competing in the Essex County Plowing Match and International Plowing Match for approximately 30 years, but is glad to see younger farmers come along and compete.
Farmers from as far as Lambton County, Middlesex County and as far as Hagersville came to town for the competition last Saturday.
Winners were Austin McLeod of Cottam (Class 1), Braedon Douglas of Staples (Class 3 and Class 7), Don Anger of Harrow (Class 4), Rowen Dawson of Kingsville (Class 5), Essex MPP Anthony Leardi (Class 6), Scott Douglas of Staples (Class 9), Chris Wismer of Amherstburg (Class 11), Paul Hodgson of Ilderton (Class 12), Brian Sterling of Pain Court (Class 13), Robert Sterling of Pain Court (Class 14), Danielle Gagnier of Kingsville (Class 16) and the scholarship winner of Alexis Duhig of Cottam.
Night Markets adding another feature to Open Air Weekends
By Fred Groves
For enterprising Jessica Deslippe and her new passion – Sapphire Hallow, the Night Market has turned into an opportunity.
Deslippe and her team, which includes daughter Addison and Julia Darby had lots of comments and interest as they were one of several vendors setting up on the streets of Dalhousie and Richmond Friday night in Amherstburg.
“I think it’s been great. The traffic has been good and we’ve been busy,” said Deslippe. Sapphire Hallow is located on the 4th Concession and
to say that what they produce is vibrant is somewhat of an understatement.
“This is our first year in business. We are a boutique flower company.”
Some of the flowers offered up for sale are so perfect in shape and colour that Deslippe said one customer wanted to touch a dahlia to see if it was real.
“They grow from a bulb. We have to dig them up every year.”
Deslippe went on to say that there are 40 varieties of that particular flower.
Besides flowers, Friday night’s market offered up produce, jewelry and crafts and sweet treats just to name a few.
Although this past night market was a little sparsely attended due to the uncertain weather, many came not only for vendors but for regular features of Amherstburg Open Air as well.
“It definitely adds to the environment of Open Air,” said tourism co-ordinator Jake Kigar of adding the Friday Night Market. “Last year we did it at the end of each month.”
Kigar went on to add that this year the Night Market portion was available every Friday night and will continue until Open Air’s final weekend Aug. 31.
Kigar said the response last year was so positive that it was expanded to include every Friday night.
The Friday Night Market added to the already many things to see and do at Open Air including games like cornhole, a big chess game and of course great music.
As far as whether or not the night market will go
every weekend next year, Kigar said it will depend on what the data from surveys from both visitors and vendors reveal.
GOD LOVES YOU AND HAS PROVIDED FOR YOUR SALVATION THRU HIS SON JESUS CHRIST Will you accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour & Lord today?
The Bible says: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead thou shalt be saved Romans 10:9
Pray this prayer from your heart today: Dear Jesus, I believe you died for my sins and rose again the third day And I accept you now as my Lord and Saviour By believing this in my heart, I know that I am now saved and am a child of God Thank you for hearing me, and your love for me I know you will keep me by your spirit thru your word the Holy Bible
Thank you, Amen
Welcome to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ at:
RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU
Madeline McLeod accepts the Max Smith Award, given to the first time competitor with the best plowed land. Making the presentation is Essex County Plowmen’s Association president Lyle Hall.
RTT PHOTO BY DONNA TUCKWELL
Entrants examine one of the plowed fields in last Saturday’s Essex County Plowing Match on Concession 7 South in Amherstburg.
Jessica Deslippe (right) along with Julia Darby (left) and Addison Deslippe were at the night market last Friday evening.
Mind, Body & Soul Festival makes donation to Miracle League
By Ron Giofu
Organizers of the Amherstburg Mind, Body & Soul (AMBS) Festival pledged to give their proceeds to the Miracle League of Amherstburg and they fulfilled that promise on the weekend.
Organizing committee members including president Nick Cacciato from the Amherstburg Soccer Club (ASC), Linda DiPasquale from the Amherstburg Pickleball Association and Wren Dosant from the Valiants basketball program were joined by representatives from the Miracle League and other festival contributors Sunday morning for a cheque presentation.
The Miracle League received a cheque for $3,200 Sunday morning, with proceeds generated from the organizations represented by those on the committee as well as Ultimate Frisbee and the WindsorEssex Bike Community (WEBC).
“We have contributions from all the various organizations,” explained DiPasquale. “Any support we can give this worthy cause is valuable.”
Cacciato pointed out the ASC covered expenses for the AMBS festival. He
added to his belief the July 19-20 festival went well.
“I think for the first year, it’s pretty good,” he said of the donation. “We’re already planning for next year.”
DiPasquale said the Miracle League of Amherstburg were “very gracious” and worked with AMBS organizers before, during and after the festival.
“They’ve been awesome,” she said.
DiPasquale added they learned a lot about running a festival and were pleased overall with how things worked out. They are looking to build on it and improve for 2025, adding they had “a lot of positive feedback” this year.
“I think we are pleased and looking forward to continuing what we started
Chess tournament
Children and youth of all ages and skill levels came to downtown Amherstburg last Saturday for the Open Air Weekends chess tournament. The event took place during most of the afternoon with the long tables of players set up along Dalhousie St. The town’s tourism department stated on its website that it had room for over 60 players and that the chess tournament reached its capacity.
next year,” she said.
“It was a lot of hard work by the team,” added Cacciato.
Miracle League of Amherstburg president Shawn Dufour said they were surprised to get such a large donation. He added there was a special Miracle League baseball game held as part of the Mind, Body & Soul Festival.
“Our players liked playing in the summer but it was very hot for them,” he said.
The regular schedule resumes Sept. 7 as the fall season begins. Volunteers are always welcome and people can sign up at www.amherstburgmiracle.com for dates and times where they are available.
The Miracle League of Amherstburg will be having 15th anniversary celebrations this fall, which will involve daylong celebrations Sept. 28 with activities off the diamond as well as games on it. All nine teams will be invited to participate.
“It’s going to kick off a large fundraising project,” said Dufour.
The donation from the AMBS festival was “a great start” to that campaign, which will fund maintenance of the playing surface.
At over 60% rented, River’s Edge PHASE 2 in Amherstburg is filling quick! This summer, when you rent a unit at River’s Edge PHASE 2, you will not only be entered in a draw to win some AMAZING prizes, but you will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card.*
We are giving away THREE AWESOME DRAW PRIZES to some of our lucky tenants!*
Organizers of the Mind, Body & Soul Festival and groups they teamed with were at the Miracle League of Amherstburg diamond Sunday morning to present the proceeds of their event to the Miracle League. Megan Kelly and Mason Iftinik were the Miracle League players on hand to accept the $3,200 cheque.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Local nurse tells stories of Holocaust survivors in new book
By Ron Giofu
Pamela Goldstein’s work as a nurse led to her involvement with survivors of the Holocaust.
That has led her to document her experiences and share the survivors’ stories in a new book.
“Still the Soul Survives – A Journey of Compassion, Memory and SelfDiscovery” was recently released and relays stories from Goldstein’s career. The book outlines the survivors, how they overcame the horror they went through and what their lives were like in the years since.
“No one talks about how they survived,” she said. “Most are hypervigilant against any kind of racism or hatred.”
Goldstein recalled Windsor having the largest and best cancer treatment sector in the world in 1972 where doctors came from around the globe.
“We set all sorts of protocols. At the same time, people who were Holocaust survivors and people given experimental drugs came for cancer treatments.”
That is where she learned a lot about the Holocaust, she said.
“I was absolutely appalled when I heard the first story,” said Goldstein.
People would come from Windsor, Detroit and from around the world to be treated.
“When you work chemo, you become good friends with all of your patients,” she said. “They come back on a regular basis.”
Goldstein would convert to Judaism, only to find out later she had some in her ancestry. Learning the stories of the Holocaust survivors and their wishes they be shared led to an original manuscript of 300,000 words. It would eventually be pared down, as a manuscript is generally in the 85,000-95,000 word range. She pointed out she altered some of the names of people involved in order to protect their families, but kept the stories as intact as possible.
Having the experiences of the Holocaust shared with her sparked her activism, as she joined marches and protests against racism and hatred. She said some of the people she worked with were in well-known marches, with one person being in very close proximity to Martin Luther King Jr. during the march in Selma.
Goldstein noted the original draft
was written a few decades ago and revisited about five years ago. Other books are planned, but “this one by far is the most important.”
Published by Unbreakable Bindings, the book shares the terror they went through but Goldstein also wanted to convey the triumph of overcoming what they went through. She said while some people may have thought writing the book would be cathartic, it was not.
“It was really hard. I would have to walk away for a while,” she said.
“Some of it was really hard to write. It’s like re-living it again – all that horror.”
Feedback has been positive, Goldstein said, including hearing from a nurse practitioner that could relate to what was in the book.
“They are extraordinary people,” said Goldstein, of the survivors. She added she doesn’t know if she would have had the strength to survive what they did.
The overriding theme is they made life matter and changed the world to make it a better place.
“Still the Soul Survives” is available through Amazon for $26.90. More information on the 345-page book and Goldstein herself is available through www.pamelagoldstein.com.
RIDE program conducted in Amherstburg
The Windsor Police Service were busy Friday night conducting RIDE programs, with one of them being set up in Amherstburg.
According to police, members of the Traffic Enforcement Unit conducted a Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (R.I.D.E.) program at locations in Windsor and Amherstburg.
A total of 225 vehicles were checked, with one roadside test conducted and zero impairments detected, Windsor police add.
Pamela Goldstein has written the new book
“Still the Soul Survives” and it is now available through Amazon. It details stories of her work with Holocaust survivors.
Bryerswood fundraiser brings in almost $3,100 for camp upgrades
By Ron Giofu
The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) is continuously looking to make upgrades to their campground and a fundraiser last week got them a step closer.
Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club held a “Mid-Summer Fundraiser” last Wednesday evening at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. According to BYCOC vice president Cathy Robertson, the evening raised approximately $3,100 for camp upgrades.
The upgrades in particular the money will be going towards creating larger, accessible washrooms in the activity centre building at the camp.
“It’s all about accessibility renovations,” said Robertson.
The BYCOC is also working towards a larger, barrier-free kitchen.
“We almost sold out,” said Robertson.
“For a Wednesday, in mid-summer,
coming into a long weekend, we have done well.”
The fundraiser saw goods and services donated, with Robertson stating G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. donating the facility, food provider Nat’s Wraps & Apps food truck waiving their transportation fee, entertainers Don McArthur and Nancy Roy from the River Rock Ramblers donating their time, and a silent auction. Libro Credit Union and Provincial Chrysler also joined as sponsors.
“That’s what this event is all about. To raise money to do the upgrades,” said Robertson.
The sponsors and supporters “came on board because they believe what we’re doing,” said Robertson.
“They want to raise as much as possible for the renovations.”
There were 101 tickets sold to the event, she added, with additional walkins attending the night of the event.
Music off the Back Porch
The July installment of Music off the Back Porch was held the evening of July 26 with Joe Perry & Ken Arsenault kicking things off followed by Mike & Hartt. The outdoor music show is a regular fundraiser for the Park House Museum. The next Music off the Back Porch is Aug. 23 from 6-8 p.m. (weather permitting). Entertainment will be the Blue Grass Band and Johnny Mac & Friends. There is no admission charge but donations are welcome. It is recommended that people bring their own lawn chairs.
“It makes a difference,” she said. “The community supports us.”
Renovation costs to the activity centre will be in the range of $175,000. Robertson added an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant will cover about $150,000 but they have to fundraise for the rest.
The BYCOC is also hosting its third annual golf tournament Sept. 22. That will be held at Wildwood Gold Course, located at 11112 11th Concession Road in McGregor, just east of Co-An Park. There will be a shotgun start at 9 a.m. and cost is $135 per golfer in a four-person scramble.
The golf tournament will feature a 50/50 draw, silent auction, longest drive, closest to the pin competitions, a snack on the turn and lunch.
For more information or to register for the golf tournament, please call Mary Ann Mertens at 519-988-6420 or e-mail fundraising@bryerswood.com.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
BYCOC’s Cathy Robertson, Rachel Tennant, Emily Plantt, Caitlin Gonneau and Pam Zeman check out the silent auction table.
Living History Festival brings different military eras together
Continued from Page 1
“People are coming from all over and bringing their children and grandchildren,” she said.
Victoria Beaulieu from the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum said they were doing such things as 18th century cooking and showing what life in the fur trade was like as part of their encampment that was along the Detroit River. She said they were showing what life could be like in that era.
Re-enactors from Fort Malden National Historic Site often attend events at the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum and they were now returning the favour.
“It’s nice because (Fort Malden) helps Maidstone with our encampments,” said Beaulieu. “We just wanted to come and help.”
Chad Bonifazi of Amherstburg was representing Loyalists in the Mohawk Valley in 1779 during the American Revolution. He said he is originally from Pennsylvania and has family still there. He noted he had ancestors who fought for the Patriots in the American Revolution and he wanted to see the other side of the story.
“I’ve always found interest in the flipside of the American Revolution,” he said.
Bonifazi said he met a Loyalist-themed re-enactor group and they travel as far as Mackinac, Pennsylvania and as far as Florida.
“I think this is fabulous here,” he said of the Living History Festival.
Bonifazi believed it allows people to reconnect with various parts of history, and credited Fort Malden staff on how well they were treated.
“Parks Canada should be proud of this
site,” he said.
Chad Bonifazi (left) was representing the Loyalist period, specifically those in the Mohawk Valley in 1779 during the American Revolution. Artillery demonstrations included musket firings during last Saturday’s Living History Festival at Fort Malden National Historic Site.
“I love this event,” added Terry MacEachern from the Provincial Marine.
Russell Goddard, also with the Provincial Marine, agreed and said he was in his fifth or sixth year as a re-enactor at it.
Fort Malden’s murder mystery returns this Saturday from 6-8 p.m. That will allow people to play detective in an event where summer students will be in various roles around the grounds, offering clues to see if people can solve the mystery.
Cost is $20.25 with pre-registration recommended. People can register by e-mailing fortmalden@pc.gc.ca with payment made on site upon arrival.
The murder mystery is weather dependent and, should inclement weather hit, cancellations will be posted on Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada’s Facebook page. For more information, call Fort Malden at 519-736-5416.
Victoria Beaulieu from the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum and Jason Granger from the Provincial Marine were among the re-enactors at the Living History Festival.
Penny Arbour brands a piece of wood with the help of Sophia Bergeron. Her brother Simon is at left with mom Karen making a video.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, keep moving forward when you find yourself in a tough situation. It’s best not to linger, but to find an path forward. Wait for the dust to settle before getting involved.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, you have a tendency to go overboard at times. Perhaps take a more middle-of-the-road strategy this week when a task falls in your lap. Give it time before acting.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you have a lot going on in your life right now to keep you busy. With so much happening, try not to worry about what is going on with others. Stay in your lane.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Family matters may be causing you some strain this week, Cancer. While it is nice to get together, it also can cause some stress. Space out visits so you can recharge in between.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, don’t worry if you can’t see the path forward too clearly right now. Things will be revealed in due time and you’ll have all the information you need to proceed.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, when a difficult arises, your first response is to get right in the middle of it and try to work things out or force it to go away. That isn’t always the most effective approach.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, when it comes to your personal passions, you are full speed ahead and very regimented in the path you take. Put those skills to the test this week with a new venture.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, if anyone assembled a crack team of experts to get through tough times, you certainly would be included. You’ll help a loved one with a last-minute problem soon enough.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You have a natural curiosity and zeal for life, Sagittarius. These traits may cascade over others and inspire them to try new things this week. Join along in the fun.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Someone from the past could come back into your life, Capricorn,. He or she could provide some answers you have been looking for. Stay tuned and be a good listener.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
You soon get the opportunity to hang out with someone you haven’t seen in awhile, Aquarius. You may stay up late catching up on all of the moments you have missed lately.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
A mistake that someone else made will be a learning experience for you, Pisces. This experience could serve as a cautionary tale of how to approach life or similar situations.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
AUGUST 4 - Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex (43)
AUGUST 5 - James Gunn, Director (58)
AUGUST 6 Leslie Odom, Jr., Actor (43)
AUGUST 7 - Charlize Theron, Actress (49)
AUGUST 8 - Shawn Mendes, Singer (26)
AUGUST 9 - Anna Kendrick, Actress (39)
AUGUST 10 - Kylie Jenner, Reality Star (27)
SUBMITTED
Masons to celebrate 175th anniversary
By Ron Giofu
2024 is a milestone year for Thistle Masonic Lodge No. 34.
The lodge, which is based out of their Murray St. building, will be celebrating its 175th anniversary in mid-August. Worshipful Master Steven Atkinson said they will be celebrating their milestone with other Masons from the region and surrounding areas including lodges from Detroit and Toledo.
“We’re going to invite some of the lodges that helped found our lodge,” he explained. “We’re going to make it a cross-border celebration.”
While events to mark the Masonic Lodge’s 175th anniversary will largely be internal this year, Atkinson said they might have some events involving the community in 2025.
“We might do some public events next year,” said Atkinson. “It’s been a slow build back after COVID.”
The last major anniversary celebrated in Amherstburg was the 150th anniversary, when the Thistle Masonic Lodge No. 34 donated the gazebo in King’s Navy Yard Park to the town.
Atkinson explained it’s not a service club but a fraternity. They still try to help the community where they can, noting past initiatives were a bicycle helmet giveaway for Grade 1 students in partnership with Amherstburg police and Canadian Tire. They also have made donations to causes and individuals over the years. Historically, Masons in Ontario formerly funded hearing tests for babies until that was taken over by the Ministry of Health, he said. A Masonic Lodge in Detroit helped with the founding of the University of Michigan, he added.
There are also other organizations under the Mason umbrella, he indicated, such as the Order of the Eastern Star for women and youth organizations such as DeMolay for boys and Rainbow Girls. Atkinson said the Masons have been more open about their organization in recent years. There are lodges across the county and multiple lodges in Windsor, he added. Windsor-Essex County is considered one district, he noted. Installation ceremonies are usually conducted in December, Atkinson added.
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WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to adventures.
Pictured is a recent degree ceremony at Thistle Masonic Lodge No. 34. Masons from as far as London came to participate. The Murray St. lodge is celebrating its 175th anniversary this year.
PHOTO
Two local athletes doing well in track and field
Lamarche, Sharman competing for UWAC track team
By Ron Giofu
A pair of Amherstburg athletes are staying busy at track and field over the summer and collecting medals in the process.
Tyler Lamarche and Leora Sharman have been competing with the University of Windsor Athletics Club (UWAC) this summer.
Both girls competed in the U16 age group at the Athletics Ontario Championships in Brampton July 26-28.
Lamarche brought home three silver medals from the Athletics Ontario Championships, as she competed in the javelin, discus and shot put events.
Sharman won a bronze medal in the discus competition in Brampton.
Lamarche competed in the Ontario Summer Games in London this past weekend, where she took second in
shot put and discus and captured first place in javelin.
“It was a really good experience, especially for team bonding,” said Sharman. “Tyler and I hung out quite a bit. We actually hung out with a lot of the team with UWAC.”
Sharman added: “The actual competition was a lot of fun.”
Lamarche said she had a lot of fun meeting new people and competing alongside of her UWAC teammates. She said she was happy with her results from that track and field meet.
The UWAC season started in late May.
Sharman said “there’s definitely been improvement” in her results and believed they have been doing better as a whole.
“I think we did pretty good, especially since we just started this year,” said Sharman.
Sharman, Lamarche and their teammates practice in Windsor three times per week.
“The more we practice, the better we get,” said Lamarche.
Lamarche joined originally last year to get some practice in but this year she is competing with the support of the coaches. Sharman added she was encouraged to get involved with the UWAC track team this summer.
“It’s been a good experience,” said Sharman. “I’m glad I did it.”
Sharman and Lamarche are students at North Star High School and compete there, but UWAC allows them more opportunities to take part in a greater variety of events.
“There’s a lot more people, that’s for sure,” said Lamarche, of the competitions UWAC travels to.
The national competition is coming up but the club track and field season is coming to a close soon. Sharman added they thank their coaches, who include Celina Gibb, Denise Hebert and Tina Sharman.
Local Stidworthy collector returns to Amherstburg with exhibit
By Ron Giofu
The works of legendary artist William Stidworthy are once again on exhibit in Amherstburg.
Stan Bergeron, a collector of Stidworthy paintings, has brought a series of the artist’s work to the Amherstburg branch of the Essex County Library. The library regularly exhibits the works of local artists with Bergeron’s collection of Stidworthy being the choice for August.
Bergeron recalled receiving a Stidworthy painting for his birthday in 1970 and that is when his collection began.
“I got interested in his work,” said Bergeron. “I decided to check to see if there were any other Stidworthys.”
The collection has grown substantially over the years to where it is today.
“To my surprise, I’ve collected about 230 oils and watercolours that Stidworthy painted,” he said.
The expansion of the collection came in large part thanks to newspaper ads, with Bergeron being contacted by people who are willing to let him buy their paintings and others who are not but are still willing to send him photos of the paintings. He developed a friendship with Dr. Gene Krentz, a retired university president who now lives in San Antonio, Texas. Krentz has 15 Stidworthy paintings, his daughter in Texas has eight while another daughter has eight, the latter of Krentz’ daughters living in Canton, Michigan.
Bergeron said he has spoken with 177 people about their Stidworthy paintings and knows of 678 of them.
“There are probably another
500-1,000 more out there,” he estimates.
Stidworthy was born in England in 1889, and came to Canada in 1912. He lived in British Columbia and Alberta when he first came to Canada and studied under artists William Beatty, Ralph MacMillan, Carl Schaefer and Franz Johnston, the latter being a member of the well-known artists “The Group of Seven.”
Bergeron said Stidworthy was in his 20s when he moved to this area, and worked as the chief decorator for the Prince Edward Hotel. The hotel was located at the intersection of Ouellette Ave. and Park St. in Windsor, Bergeron pointed out.
After Stidworthy retired, he did a painting almost every day, Bergeron said he was told by Stidworthy’s daughter Phyllis.
Stidworthy would eventually move to Willow Dr. in LaSalle until his death in 1977 at the age of 88.
A similar exhibit was held in April at the Gibson Gallery with that being entitled “Homage to W.F. Stidworthy (1889-1977) – Impressionist Paintings.”
“After my show at the Gibson Gallery in April, I showed at the LaSalle Library for the month of July,” said Bergeron. “I’m returning back to Amherstburg with a smaller exhibit.”
Since the exhibit at the Gibson Gallery, Bergeron stated two Amherstburg residents called him about their Stidworthy paintings.
“I’m just trying to continue his legacy,” said Bergeron.
The Amherstburg library is open 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and closed Sunday.
Tyler Lamarche (left) and Leora Sharman have been doing well in track and field as they compete for the UWAC track team.
Stan Bergeron, a collector of Stidworthy paintings, is showing the work of the artist again in Amherstburg, this time at the Essex County Library - Amherstburg branch.
RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU
Community Calendar
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8
FEAST WITH FRIENDS; Presented by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) at 320 Richmond St. (Community Hub). Speaker will be Const. Nick Dupuis, community service officer with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment. Topic will be elder abuse. Runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost $9 for lunch and information. For info, call 519-736-5471.
MONDAY, AUG 12-FRIDAY, AUG 16
CAMP FIRELIGHT; Encounter Kids presents “Camp Firelight: A Summer Camp Adventure with God” 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. For Grades SK-6 (as of Sept. 2024). $165 per camper for the week. Includes shirt, bag, snacks, field trip, hot lunch on Friday and more! Held at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14
ECFNC MEETING; Next meeting of the Essex County Field Naturalists Club (ECFNC) being held at Ojibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchett Road in Windsor. This month’s theme is “Cultivating Community and Conservation” with a native plant gardener panel and plant swap. The panel discussion will feature new and experienced native plant gardeners who will share their journeys, challenges and successes. Meeting starts at 7 p.m. ECFNC meets every second Wednesday of the month, except for November. All are welcome. Free to public.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
CAR WASH/BBQ FUNDRAISER; Held at Rob & Tina’s No Frills, by Encounter Church. Car wash and barbecue to run from 1-7 p.m. in the No Frills parking lot, 181 Sandwich St. S. in Amherstburg. Volunteers will also be bagging groceries. Donations will be turned over to Malden Central Public School’s food program.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH; Held in the rear of the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St. Entertainers will be the Blue Grass Band and Johnny Mac & Friends. Runs from 6-8 p.m., weather permitting. Free to attend, donations appreciated. Proceeds benefit Park House Museum. Limited seating, bringing your own lawn chair recommended.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28
RAINBOW BRIDGE MEMORIAL SERVICE; Held at Windsor Chapel Funeral Home – Banwell
Chapel (11677 Tecumseh Rd. E., Windsor) at 6:30 p.m. Starts with a therapy dog greeting, courtesy of St. John Ambulance. Free event, light refreshments to follow service. Everyone encouraged to bring photo of their pet who has crossed the rainbow bridge. Space is limited, RSVP by Aug. 23 by calling 519-253-7235.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
CAR JAM; North Star High School concert bank presenting car show, barbecue, mini-market, face painting, bake sale and more. Runs from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St. $10 per car, $40 vendor fee. To register a vehicle, call Ray at 519-712-8763 or e-mail rlaliberte21@ hotmail.ca. Vendors can register by calling Julie at 226-347-8035 or e-mail jlalibertern@gmail. com.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
BRYERSWOOD GOLF TOURNAMENT; Third annual charity golf tournament to benefit Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club occurring at Wildwood Golf, 11112 11th Concession Road, in McGregor. Four-person scramble. $135 per golfer. 9 a.m. shotgun start. To register, e-mail Mary Ann Mertens at fundraising@bryerswood. com or call 519-988-6420.
ONGOING
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.
STROLL & ROLL WALKING GROUP; Interested in meeting new people? Moving more? Weekly walking group to meet rain or shine. Free for everyone in the community, open to all abilities. Runs Tuesdays in Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg from 10-11 a.m., July 2-Sept. 24. In Harrow Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. at Harrow Health Centre (1480 Erie St. S.) from July 11-Sept. 26. Inclement weather alternatives are Libro Centre in Amherstburg and community room in clinic in Harrow. For info, call Amherstburg Family Health Team at 519-736-7770 ext. 235 or Harrow 519738-2000 ext. 222.
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.
MIRACLE LEAGUE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; The Miracle League of Amherstburg can use volunteers for the fall season. People can help at one game or multiple games (up to four) every Saturday, weather permitting. Great for students needing volunteer hours or adults looking to give back. For info or to sign up, visit www. amherstburgmiracle.com.
ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail. com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.
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 $7.50 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.
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.
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!
FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come meet others in the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. 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 519-800-8640.
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.
ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood.com.
BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their 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 519736-5706.
FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club.” Donors 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.
AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-7365471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help!
CLASSIFIEDS
LANDSCAPING
"Preferred Landscaping" Locally owned company offering lawn care services. Weekly, monthly, or one time cutting, trimming, and yard clean up. Please call Larry for a free quote. 519984-7412.
DOG GROOMING
LISA’S DOG WASH; Baths & Haircuts in a stressfree environment. One on one service. All breeds welcome! First groom 1/2 price!Phone or TXT Lisa 519-965-0781
“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 CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.
APARTMENTS 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.
Two-bedroom apartment, available Sept. 1, Caldwell Towers North. Call 519736-7295. Best view from apartment in town.
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
WANTED TO BUY
GOLD + Silver Jewelry+ ALL COINS- Buying 57 years Experience-"Locally Owned" Friday Aug 16 K of C Hall 190 Richmond St Amherstburg 9am-4pmCash Paid for ALL Gold + Silver **OLD COINS; Canada, USA, World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 57 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Always Paying More $$$ House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519-8181805
Another successful year for Hogs for Hospice
By Donna Tuckwell
The long weekend was a busy one, but especially so for the Municipality of Leamington.
Every year the first long weekend in August sees thousands of motorbikes of all shapes and sizes descend upon the town for the annual “Hogs for Hospice” event.
2024 marked their ninth year.
“Even with the challenges of two years of Covid we still did things,” said Hogs for Hospice president and board member Joe Oswald. “We had outdoor movies and other things like
that.”
“It’s become a community event. We have over 500 volunteers and not one person is on the payroll. We are 100 per cent volunteer,” said Oswald. “We believe we built something our town can be proud of and we feel blessed that the Leamington community has embraced us from day one.”
The four-hour ride was only part of the event.
Vendors were selling everything from clothing to food, attendees enjoyed music at the beer garden, freestyle motorcycle shows, concerts, clubs that raise awareness for child abuse, a community breakfast, Honour our Veterans Ceremony and Blessing of the Bikes, Sunday Morning Worship service, a biker rodeo, Jr Bike Rodeo, and this year even included RibFest.
The event is basically free except for what you choose to spend. There is no admission fee and the shows are free except for the concerts.
The concert lineup featured top acts like Justin Moore, Priscilla Block, Stone Temple Pilots, and Quiet Riot.
Over 2,000 bikes were registered for the official ride, but many more were in attendance, and the park saw over 10,000 visitors each day of the threeday event.
“A huge thank you to everyone for believing in us, said Oswald. “This event could not take place without our volunteers, our sponsors, or the community embracing us. It’s no longer our event, it’s everyone’s event.”
WE ALSO
The water balloon challenge is part of the bike rodeo. As the bike passes under a bar the passenger throws a balloon over it and has to catch it on the other side.
RTT PHOTO BY DONNA TUCKWELL
FREE Downtown
Amherstburg Uncommon Festival September 20, 21, 22 Be curious Expect the unexpected!
Mark your Calendar
Open Air Weekends ~ May 31 to September 1
Summer Splash - Aug 14 Pat Thrasher Park/Aug 28 Jack Purdie Park -5pm-7pm
Amherstburg Sightseeing Cruise ~ August 15 & 29, September 29
Amherstburg Sunset Dinner Cruise ~ August 15
Art by the River ~ August 24-25
Amherst Palooza ~ August 31
Uncommon Festival ~ September 20, 21, 22
National Truth & Reconciliation Day Gathering ~ September 28
The Mom Market -Shop Local Halloween Market ~ October 26
River Lights Winter Festival ~ November 16-Jan 5
Santa Claus Parade ~ November 23 Santa Shout Out ~ December 13 Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee Meeting Town
Watch Council & Committee meetings from the comfort of your home! amherstburg.ca/livestream
Interested in delegating at a Council Meeting? amherstburg.ca/delegationform or for assistance with accommodation visit Town Hall or call 519-736-0012 White Goods Pick Up
