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TRUE Festival makes its return to Amherstburg
The TRUE Festival returned to town Saturday night. The “Hoop You” fire performance was held at Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. (far left) while Carole Deschaine was one of the glowing angels (above). Phoenix Black performs for the crowd (left).
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
By Ron Giofu Billed as a free disco dance party, the town’s downtown core was the site of nighttime entertainment last weekend. The third annual TRUE Festival encouraged people to come to Dalhousie and Richmond St. for an evening of entertainment and more. The outdoor winter event was designed by the town’s tourism department to promote “creativity, community spirit and a celebration of artistic expression.” “Fire and glow” performances were
part of the night’s events, with a fire show, drag queens, illuminated cornhole, toasting marshmallows, a spin-towin game by The House Youth Centre’s “Embrace” group and hot chocolate and apple cider being sold by the Rotary Club of Amherstburg making up the attractions. The latter two were held in inflatable igloos that were set up in the Open Air Weekends footprint. A press release leading into the festival advertised it as a way to “indulge your taste buds at our drink and snack stations while you take in the fun
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downtown. TRUE Fest aims to create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere where everyone can let loose and celebrate. The event is an experience that brings together the community for a night of joy and laughter.” “TRUE Fest is a testament to the creativity and passion that define our town,” says Mayor Michael Prue. “This event not only celebrates artists and our community members, but it adds to the vibrant culture that makes Amherstburg special.” “We’ve had lines out of the igloo,”
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said Morghan Shearon, program director with The House. Major prizes being raffled off by The House were gone within 20 minutes, she said. For Fina St. Denis and Andrea Fevreau of Amherstburg, both were having a good time Saturday night. “I came last year and it was a lot of fun,” said St. Denis. “I didn’t come last year but (St. Denis) told me to come this year,” added Fevreau, with a laugh.
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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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Town council passes budget, though number of speakers ask for reduction By Ron Giofu Despite a less than receptive audience in council chambers Monday night. Amherstburg town council has approved its 2024 budget. The budget calls for a 6.44 per cent tax increase, one that a series of speakers asked be reduced further. Many council members in favour of the budget said they were doing so because it takes measures they feel have to be done and includes projects the community needs. Voting in favour were Mayor Michael Prue, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, Councillor Don McArthur, Councillor Linden Crain and Councillor Molly Allaire. Councillor Diane Pouget was opposed. Councillor Peter Courtney was absent. Pouget cited inflation impacting many families and said there are those suffering from economic hardship. She said she voted for projects that would provide roads, safe water and wastewater, culverts and bridges and to protect the town against cyber attacks but against most new positions, pickleball-only courts, grooming of the Libro Centre hill and the new fire hall, with a smaller fire hall being her preference. The town is using money from reserve to fund some of those projects, she added, stating it is “not good business practice.” Pouget also noted there are still water and wastewater rate increases to come. “For those reasons, I can’t vote in good conscience to raise the budget by 6.44 per cent,” said Pouget. Councillor Molly Allaire offered kudos to Pouget and said she stands with how she voted during deliberations. Allaire said she “tried my darnedest” to arrive at a lower figure during deliberations and believed her colleagues worked hard as well, but supported the documents they arrived at. Gibb acknowledged his position wouldn’t be popular with the crowd at town hall Monday night, but believed the budget addresses what has to be done in Amherstburg. “This town is at a crossroads,” the deputy mayor stated. Reserves haven’t been built up enough and not enough was collected in past years, he believed, and now the town is paying for it. He said they can’t do what they want to do, but have to do what they need to do. Gibb said the province keeps downloading onto municipalities and funding sources are lower than previous
years. Roads and buildings are in tough shape, said Gibb, adding he heard during the last municipal election that people want amenities returned to Amherstburg. “I’m here to do what’s right for Amherstburg’s future residents,” he said. “We are going to do what needs to be done.” Crain said municipalities have to do more with less, citing an example that approvals that used to be done by the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) now have to be done locally. Bill 23 has also impacted the amount of development charges that municipalities can collect on rental unit construction. The town has to put the bulk of the burden on the residents, he added, and the town is working to build up its commercial and industrial tax base. Inflation was another factor, Crain said, but believed the 2024 budget is in line with the town’s asset management plan. McArthur said he didn’t campaign to lower taxes, stating if too many cuts are made, the town can’t keep pace with inflation and asset management. If the town “falls apart,” people will leave and go elsewhere, he said. People and businesses are coming to Amherstburg because there is a “buzz” around the town, he said, and investments are being made on trails in McGregor, the former Duffy’s property and others. He said the town has to pay police, fire and parks staff. “I don’t think you can build a community on ‘no’ votes,” he said. Economic development is happening in Amherstburg, McArthur added, and that includes the festivals as well. “Amherstburg is on a skyrocketing trajectory,” said McArthur. “We have to keep it going for everyone in this room and for everyone in town.” “This is a very tough year,” said Prue. Prue pinned much of the blame on the province, stating OCIF funding has decreased, an asset management plan (of what he agrees with) has to be done, and development charges on rental units are not like they used to be. “We’re not alone, you know,” he told the crowd, citing tax increases in other Essex County municipalities. Prue said Amherstburg doesn’t have the reserves others do to help combat tax increases, using the County of Essex as one example where dipping into reserves brought that tax increase down to 4.95 per cent. Town council had tough choices and “fractious” budget sessions, but did what they could.
“Am I happy? No, but I’m not sad either,” said Prue. “We did the best we could.” Amherstburg is a small town with a limited budget with “reserves not being brought up as they should have been in the past.” Prue said he liked recommendations from residents Rodger and Sue Hudson, which included council increases its base budget by the average rate of the consumer price index (CPI) and construction index and arrive at a base budget number to give to administration. That would be a “new” base budget target spending amount for 2025. That figure would be given to senior management to allocate to their department. “It is up to each manager to be fiscally responsible and submit spending increases that meet this budget requirement that council has established,” said Sue. “Prior to releasing the budget to the public, administration presents a draft budget to council so that council can confirm if the target was met. If it hasn’t been met, further discussions need to to take place in order to meet the target.” The Hudsons believed based on 2018-24 budgets, property taxes collected and spending have kept up with inflation, except 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Modifying our budget process will let residents know in July what sort of tax increases they may be faced with in 2025 and they can plan accordingly,” she said. “The new budget process would increase fiscal responsibility and prioritization of spending” and make an increase to spending more transparent. “If this budget is approved tonight, there will be young families and seniors who will need to make some tough decisions,” said Sue. “Spending within our town needs to be better controlled and the budget process requires improvement.” Multiple residents believed the increase was too high. Lynn Sinasac also spoke against the 6.44 per cent increase. She called on elected officials to re-open the budget and seek savings and that they exercise more fiscal responsibility. Sinasac also said there are those hurting in the community that need assistance. Jan Ouellette told town council she has been paying taxes since 1977 and that “6.44 per cent is a lot to ask.” Ouellette said the town needs to look at needs for wants. “Let’s leave out all the bells and whistles,” she said.
Continued on Page 5
Fire shows, drag queens, games and more featured at TRUE Festival
Continued from Page 1
St. Denis said she would like to make it an annual outing. “I love everyone on the streets having a good time together,” said St. Denis. “I definitely will be coming back.” Lisa Chiandussi, Pam Berdusco and Annette Langshaw of Amherstburg
wanted to get out and enjoy the night, even in the middle of winter. “It’s great to have some entertainment,” said Chiandussi. “I think it’s good.” Langshaw said they didn’t get a chance to come last year, but wanted to make it this year. “It’s pretty cool,” she said.
Berdusco added while she enjoyed having the some of the River Lights displays still illuminated, she suggested adding Valentine’s Day lights next year. She added it was a good way to get out of the house and enjoy and evening of fun. Krista Rann came in from Kingsville for the event. She said they come to
Book Review Beartown
by: Fredrik Backman, translated from Swedish by: Neil Smith
In a small, economically crumbling village called Beartown, they believe hockey can save them. Their junior A-team finally has a real chance at winning, and they trust that one championship would revive the town, but just before the semifinals, the GM’s daughter is assaulted by the Bears’ star player. This novel explores the perspective of people in Beartown, making you care deeply about each and every one of them, even the ones you spend one page with. You will experience the full spectrum of emotions, having your heart broken and not quite put back together. In a small, economically crumbling village called Beartown, they believe hockey can save them. Their junior A-team finally has a real chance at winning, and they trust that one championship would revive the town, but just before the semifinals, the GM’s
daughter is assaulted by the Bears’ star player.
Review by: Bookseller Taylor
Amherstburg for several festivals throughout the year, adding she loves the “positive vibes” from the TRUE Festival. “We came last year to the winter and summer shows. We love it,” she said. “Everyone has a good time. It seems to be a good family event.”
Shy Willow By: Cat Min
Willow is shy. VERY shy. Her home is an abandoned mailbox, and she’d rather stay inside, drawing. Outside kids scream, soccer balls collide, and rain is too noisy. But then a young boy drops a letter in Willow’s mailbox: it’s a note to the moon asking for a special favour. Willow knows that if she doesn’t brave the world outside, the letter will never be delivered, and the boy will be heartbroken. Can she try? A story about putting yourself out there, even when it’s scary, simply to make someone happy. Willow is an adorable role model for us all. Review by: Lead Bookseller Meghan
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 3
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Sold-out crowd at fundraiser aids Hope of St. Joseph Shelter
The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter held a pasta dinner fundraiser Sunday evening at the Columbus Community Hall in Amherstburg. The crowd lines up for food (above) while corporation secretary Mary Beneteau displays an African garment given to her by Father Donato Lwiyando (left).
By Ron Giofu The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter got boosted thanks to a fundraising dinner on the weekend. A pasta dinner was held Sunday evening at the Columbus Community Hall with just shy of 170 people selling out the event. A final fundraising figure is estimated at $3,000. Hope of St. Joseph president Larry Allen said shelter founder Father Donato Lwiyando “sparked” many people
locally during his time as a priest at St. John the Baptist Church in Amherstburg and has continued to do the same since he moved back to the D.R. Congo, where the shelters are located. Father Donato thanked the organization and the supporters in a video. “Thank you to the corporation who helps us be who we are,” he stated. Allen said Father Donato has “amazing energy” and what started out as one shelter has now expanded into three. A girls shelter was originally founded
known as St. Joseph Shelter, while St. Mary’s has since opened for boys. The third shelter is for pregnant women and new mothers. Father Donato also helps to feed 250-300 street kids multiple times per week with beans and rice. Mary Beneteau, secretary with the local corporation, said some girls come back to help those currently there. She said children and youth in the shelter become “pretty tight” and a family of their own. “The shelter, for many of them, is their
only home,” said Beneteau. The education for the youth in the shelter is improving, with many attending school and doing well. Father Donato wants the students to continue on to post-secondary education, though Beneteau said they need help to pay for schooling even at the younger age groups. “Nothing in the school system is free,” she said. The Hope of St Joseph Shelter is hoping to gain additional sponsors for the children and youth, with Beneteau stating that money is vital. There are approximately 105 sponsors thus far. “We need the money,” she said. “We’re happy with whatever we get.” Beneteau and her husband Marc host a massive yard sale every summer and plan on continuing that this year. Donations of clean, usable items that can be sold are requested, though large, heavy items are difficult for the organization to accept. “I get to meet some wonderful, generous people,” Beneteau said of the yard sale. Organizers thank the kitchen volunteers for making the pasta, Romanos, volunteers that helped set up and take down, silent auction donations, families who joined our sponsorship program and everyone who attended. For more information, please visit www.hopeislife.ca.
Bryerswood Youth Camp fundraising dinner in River Canard By Fred Groves It may be winter but that doesn’t mean the work stops for those who run the Bryerswood Youth Camp on Texas Road in Amherstburg. The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club which takes care of the camp hosted its annual fundraising dinner this past Saturday night. According to club president Kathi Poupard, nearly 200 came to the K of C Hall in River Canard to either sit and eat ribs and chicken or take it home to enjoy. Highlighting the night was a 50/50 draw, a draw for a big screen TV and of course lots of items to be raffled off. “We get very good support from the community,” said Poupard. Despite it being winter, camp director Caitlin Gonneau says there are still lots of things for young people to do including the exciting “Beach Bash” being held on a PD Day, February 16 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. “They are going to learn to hula dance and play with sand slime,” said Gonneau.
After that Bryerswood hosts March Break day activities from March 11–15 for ages 4 to 13. Gonneau explained that those who attend will be treated to a different adventure theme each day. “They are going to outer space and go to the Arctic and build a sled and we’re going on a field trip to wrap the week up.” In the spring, Earth Day will see a lot of outdoor activities including tree planting and there will once again be food trucks and book sales. Bryerswood Youth Camp opened in 2018 and sits on 25 acres. The summertime is when they are the busiest and according to Poupard work on the cabins is progressing quickly. “They are in place and have been anchored down. They’ve got insulation and we’ve been working on the painting and we continue to do that as long as the weather holds up.” The cabins are of a rustic, wooden style and blend in well with the camp which offers leadership, outdoor camping skills, life skills and environmental stewardship. Bryerswood Youth Optimist Club will
be hosting lunch at the annual Essex Train Show Feb. 24-25.
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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Addressing H. Murray Smith Centennial Park “long overdue” I reside close to what remains of Centennial Park and was pleased to read the RTT report that our town council is finally discussing the future of our park during 2025 budget discussions. I agree with Councillors Pouget, Courtney, and Mayor Prue that addressing the park’s future is long overdue. An insert in our recent interim taxes package touted improvements at Warren Mickle, Briar Ridge, and Jack Purdie parks,
with no mention of Centennial. Council, please quit the foot dragging. If fundraising for a new track is successful in the future, and since the school board has no inclination to locate it on their property, please locate it elsewhere, perhaps at the Libro Centre where there would be plenty of parking. It is time to return what is left of Centennial Park to uses suited more to the needs of the
area. Tennis courts, a swimming pool, basketball court, baseball diamonds, community centre, and walking track once occupied space in this park. Why not return the Golden Age Club to the existing building, keep the hill, and add tennis courts, swimming pool, and a natural walking track to the remaining area? These entities could be enjoyed by both area residents and by seniors in the residence on Richmond Street that
council approved for construction. By the way, I recently drove by the former “General Amherst” site, and noted that it is being sold by the school board. Would town council or administration please remind me what benefits Amherstburg taxpayers received when the original deal with the school board was approved? —Larry Foley Amherstburg
Taxpayers have been “taken to the cleaners,” says resident
Our budget for 2024 is now in the history books. The administration got their wish list approved. Our political leadership has been disappointing. The taxpayers of Amherstburg have been taken to the cleaners. The lack of leadership that council displayed is not only self-evident, it is also compelling for everyone to see the magic of bait and switch to what was promised. It is a total illusion. The lack of compassion and understanding to thousands of seniors and others and the pain that this will cause shows how insensitive our political leaders are. The wants versus the needs – the wants won the day like spoiled children that became adults and later politicians. The principle belief of economic expansion is what drives growth generates additional revenue to maintain the level of services that we need. This is not a theory, it is a reality. Balancing our budget has to be a priority without raising taxes, given that council approved tax increases in the first two years of their mandate, a total of 11 per cent in just a year. We can only hope that they would give us a balanced budget in the
last year of their term to claim how good of a job they did. Do not rejoice yet – a report on wastewater and water rates is due soon. They can surprise you one more time. Only fools would jump over a cliff just because others have done so. Inflation is affecting everyone, every household is dealing with it and balancing their household budget without expecting others to pay for it. We need to have a plan for economic development. Self-promotion is the most effective way to achieve this. The new procedural bylaw that has been passed impedes public discourse and public participation and people are not being able to ask questions from the floor of the council chamber. The best advice for council should come from the citizens that elected them. The only consolation that we have is in a little more than two years, we can vote them out of office preventing them from doing more damage. —Frank Cerasa Amherstburg
Tax increase description questioned Regarding the tax increase of $171.00 on a home valued at $250,000, if you can find a home in Amherstburg for $250,000, I’ll go buy it right now. When a tax increase is stated this way, it is an insult to my intelligence. I went on houses for sale in Amherstburg and didn’t see too many listed below $500,000. What a deception! —Tony Pietrangelo Amherstburg
Town’s 6.44 per cent tax rate increase described as “unacceptable” by resident A 6.44 per cent tax rate increase is just unacceptable. Mayor Prue said, “It’s the best council could do.” The Libro Centre is losing over $2.5 million per year. What are you doing to fix that? Our police department costs us $3 million more than Kingsville’s police department. What are you
doing to fix that? You put over $70,000 into a so-called “tourism department.” Where does all that money go? I read in the River Town Times that the Ontario government gave Amherstburg over $19 million since 2019. Where did all that money go?
Inflation is up, costs are up, and now you want to tax us more. Mayor Prue, if that’s the best you can do, then your best is not good enough. —Wayne Parsons Amherstburg
Taxpayer questions “does our future look bright?” I didn’t really want to go down this rabbit hole but after listening to our mayor on the radio I needed too. Our mayor indicated that there was not much he could do regarding the budget. With his years of experience constantly bragging of his capabilities I find this hard to believe. His whole career at the public trough, the multiple public pensions that get adjusted every year, will this 6.44 per cent tax increase hurt
his quality of life? Keep in mind, a previous council approved a bylaw providing for all team members to get an automatic raise every year. Without discussion we gave everybody huge pay increases. The CAO’s budget centre 13.5 per cent, the recreation service budget centre 33 per cent, economic development budget centre nine per cent. Should our mayor have raised this bylaw for reconsideration
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especially based on his experience? He knows what we are all facing today but made no attempt to help us. I mentioned in a previous letter that the two special tax levies should be removed. Imagine the sales pitch that we could have heard from our mayor. “We know times are hard, costs going up everywhere but despite that we were able to provide a tax relief of 5% by removing the special levies for 2024 and we gave administration everything they wanted which included new positions, more funding for programs, more spending on projects and the final outcome is a 1.44 per cent tax increase.” When a radio personality from CKLW
speaks publicly that they would like to live in Amherstburg but they can’t afford it, we have a problem. When it costs Amherstburg residents 40% more to live here than in Kingsville, we have a problem. Our administration will not solve this problem. It is at the will (direction) of council to solve it. Unfortunately, I have to agree with Deputy Mayor Gibb, we do have a divided council. Four members have established that Administration is their priority and three are trying to support the taxpayer. Does our future look bright? —Rodger Hudson Amherstburg
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, as well as for any concerns relating to libel and slander. • 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.
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Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 5
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Black History Month launched at special kickoff event The panel discussion “A Conversation about Women’s Empowerment and Community Engagement” will be Feb. 17 at 2 p.m. It is free to attend and will feature Davis, Shantelle BrowningMorgan, Rose Anguiano Hurst, Kaitlyn Ellsworth, and Leslie McCurdy. Ristic will be the moderator and people can register through the museum’s Facebook page. A second WSO concert, this one featuring Korin Thomas-Smith singing Mozart, will be Feb. 23 at the Nazrey AME Church at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased online at www.windsorsymphony.com.
Teajai Travis (left) performs on the drum during the Black History Month kickoff event last Friday night at the Caribbean Centre in Windsor. Florine Ndimubandi sings during the same event (right). Ndimubandi will come to the Nazrey AME Church in Amherstburg Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. for a concert, with tickets for that being $5 each and available through www.windsorsymphony.org.
By Ron Giofu Black History Month is designated every February but festivities were kicked off last Friday night. The 2024 Windsor-Essex Joint Black History Month kickoff was held at the Windsor West Indian Association’s (WWIA) Caribbean Centre with the WWIA being one of the presenters. The Amherstburg Freedom Museum was another of the co-presenters as was the Essex County Black Historical Research Society (ECBHRS). Irene Moore Davis, ECBHRS president, thanked the organizations for coming together to hold the annual kickoff event. Davis added the Amherstburg Freedom Museum is hosting a list of Black History Month events on its website. Cari-Lynn Ristic, a board member with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, noted Black History Month’s roots date back to 1926 when it was first introduced as “Negro History Week” and was changed to Black History Month in the 1970s. She added it was formally recognized in the House of Commons in 1995. “Windsor-Essex County is rich in Black history,” she said, noting cultural, economic political and societal impacts have been made. The history of those of Black descent being in this area dates back to the 18th Century, Ristic pointed out. The kickoff event featured poetry by Erik E-Tomic Johnson, music by vocalist Florine Ndimubandi,
drum performances by Teajai Travis and stories from multiple speakers throughout the evening. “We have a place. We have a culture. We are a people,” said Johnson. “This is why we celebrate.” Jada Larkin, who was one of three emcees on the evening along with Johnson and Hailey Chase, pointed out contributions made over the years by groups and organizations promoting anti-discrimination initiatives in the region. “We are here, we are there, we are everywhere,” said Larkin. Black History Month events are being presented in Amherstburg at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum in partnership with the River Bookshop. The launch of “Black Activist, Black Scientist, Black Icon: The Autobiography of Dr. Howard D. McCurdy” with Dr. George Elliott Clarke and Dr. Brenda McCurdy, with moderator Sheila Barker gets things started Feb. 1. It is free and starts at 5:30 p.m. The WSO family concert at the Nazrey AME Church featuring Ndimubandi and the singers of the Windsor Essex Youth Choir highlights black composers Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. The cost is $5 and tickets are available at www.windsorsymphony.com. Artist Dennis K. Smith will open his studio Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. and invite young people to learn how to dot paint. Youth can register by calling at 519-7365433 or e-mailing curator@amherstburgfreedom. org. It’s free and the studio is at 1130 Minto Ave. in LaSalle.
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GENERAL MEETING - FEB 15 - 7:00PM BRANCH 157 AMHERSTBURG
Town council passes 2024 operating and capital budgets
M O N D AY
Continued from Page 2
T U E S D AY
Donna and Geoff Hibbert also stated residents are struggling, noting they know a local couple that have a combined income of $24,963.84 but have $24,919.43 in expenses. A $44.41 amount leftover turns into a -$239.29. “They are not alone in their circumstance. There are many more in Amherstburg on a fixed income. Renters will be affected too.” They believed the increase is between 9.5-ten per cent when all rates are factored in, but Prue said they simply can’t be added. When percentages were calculated and county and school board rates factored in, treasurer Tracy Prince estimated the combined rate to be 5.43 per cent though noted she is still awaiting some data. “I don’t think this person would be in the position to afford to play pickleball or want to pay for drag queens marching down Richmond St.,” she said. Donna added focus should be on replacing and
adding “when we can afford to do so” while also voicing opposition to council not assisting Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 with funding. “How many years must we struggle with these tax increases to cover excessive spending?” added Geoff. “How long can people on fixed or limited income survive?” Jon Parks added he too knows people struggling, and that he has helped a local family with vehicle repairs they otherwise couldn’t afford. He is aware of people having to possibly lose their homes. Parks believed Prue should send the budget back to administration, calling for an increase closer to 3.3 per cent, which he said was the rate of inflation. Allaire said she hoped the budget could be lower next year, but Parks added it may be too late for some. “I do not have the power you wish I had,” Prue told Parks, noting the “Strong Mayor” powers currently don’t include municipalities such as Amherstburg.
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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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“Evening of Hope” benefits Project Hope Windsor-Essex
Performers that took part in the recent “An Evening of Hope” musical event at Harrow United Church conclude the evening with a group number (left). One of the singers at the Jan. 20 benefit concert was Lauren Baillargeon of Amherstburg (left). Proceeds benefit Project Hope Windsor-Essex, which operates the Harrow Food Pantry in front of Harrow Arena.
By Ron Giofu Musical talent from around the area was showcased recently all to help an area food pantry. “An Evening of Hope” was held Jan. 20 at Harrow United Church with the proceeds benefiting Project Hope Windsor-Essex. Project Hope operates the Harrow Food Pantry located in front of Harrow Arena and was founded in 2019 by Taylor Gorick and her husband Steve Pomerleau. “It’s beautiful to see this room full of people,” Gorick told the crowd assembled. Gorick told the crowd they started making care packages for those in need in Windsor as a way to give back and show their appreciation for what they
have. After feeling they could do more, they started Project Hope WindsorEssex. The pantry was built in partnership with the Fortis Group and other community partners. “We wanted to do something more sustainable,” she said. About 1,700 items were distributed in 2022 and the need grew in 2023, she added, with 1,900 food items given out. “It may be a tiny building but a lot of hope is created by what happens there,” said Gorick. When people pull up to the Harrow Community Pantry, they get a list of items and get to make a choice of what they want. They get to come back once per week. The number of volunteers has grown to about 25, Gorick added, as has their social media presence.
A puzzling competition
A puzzle contest was held by the River Bookshop last Saturday afternoon in the Richmond St. store’s “Hole in the Wall” second floor event space. Ten teams of two participated in the event, with Jenna Jobin and Andrea Hodgkins of Tecumseh winning the $100 gift card by completing the puzzle in just under three hours. Each team was given an identical 500-piece puzzle to complete. The next competition will be April 20 with another one also planned later this summer as part of the second annual Art Crawl event.
“We want people to be able to maintain their dignity,” she said. Gorick stated the people the pantry helps are not just homeless people or those battling addiction. “You never know when it could be you, a family member or a neighbour,” said Gorick. Rev. Darrow Woods of Harrow United Church recalled being a ten-year-old boy and only having kidney beans that he had to share with younger siblings. He said a small contribution could “brighten someone’s day.” There were ten musical acts on the evening, including Lauren Baillargeon of Amherstburg. Jocelyn Carreira was one of the singers at the “Evening of Hope” fundraiser at Harrow United Church.
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 7
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ACS unveiling new programming to connect with seniors By Ron Giofu Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) is preparing to roll out new programs to assist seniors to go with the agency’s existing programming. Connecting seniors with other seniors in the community as well as other generations is a priority for ACS this year, according to executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo. “This year, we have decided to focus on senior isolation and ways to address that,” said DiBartolomeo. “To do that, we will be introducing some new programs in addition to the programs we already have.” One of the new programs ACS is working on is a “pen pal” program with a local school. Details are still being ironed out, but the program would see students and seniors exchange letters. “We just think this may help bridge the generation gap,” said DiBartolomeo. By learning more about each other and asking questions, people from each generation can learn from each other, she added. ACS currently offers a “Feast with Friends” program every other Thursday where seniors can pay for a lunch and get entertainment or activities, the non-profit agency is also developing a new “lunch
Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo meets with local seniors at last Thursday’s “Feast with Friends” luncheon. She also greets Betty Van Bekkum (right), who is a volunteer at the luncheons.
and learn” program where seniors can get educated on various topics to help their daily lives. The plan would be to offer both programs. Amherstburg Community Services also aims to work with local medical offices in Amherstburg, LaSalle and Harrow to display what programs ACS offers on television screens people can view while at the doctor. DiBartolomeo said many seniors want to stay active and give back to their community, noting there are those who have difficulty leaving their homes. ACS offers programs throughout the week and are planning to deliver brochures to apartments so they know what is
available. Seniors who can’t get out could have programs geared towards them so they feel included, she added, including having people call just to check in on them to see if they are OK. With restrictions having loosened or dropped entirely after the COVID-19 pandemic, “there are so many more opportunities for seniors now. It’s a matter of informing them and encouraging them to come out.” Seniors “need to feel they have a purpose,” she added. By coming through the programs ACS already has, many have become friends and go to meals and shopping together. “Seniors are facing so many obstacles,”
said DiBartolomeo. “Our goal is to put seniors in touch with other seniors.” ACS is also planning another volunteer recruitment fair in the spring. A final date hasn’t been finalized as of yet, but the goal is to have it sometime in April. Betty Van Bekkum is one of the volunteers as the 78-year-old comes out to the “Feast with Friends” events and helps serve coffee and tea. “I like everyone,” said Van Bekkum. “I like the people.” For more information on ACS and its programming, call 519-736-5471, visit www.amherstburg-cs.com or visit their office in the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St.
Accessibility committee looks over series of site plans By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee has reviewed a series of site plans for projects planned for the town. Three of the projects moving forward include creation and/or expansion of a pair of self-storage facilities on Concession 3 North and another planned for Renaud St. Committee members had a series of questions on details of the projects, including how they would be entered. Committee member Tony Pietrangelo brought up the issue of lighting, with clerk Kevin Fox indicating the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment would study issues such as how the lighting would be established. Vice chair Christine Easterbrook voiced
a concern over how self-storage units would be opened by someone with a disability with the question relating to how high is the door and door handle. The accessibility committee also reviewed a plan for a proposed warehouse and aggregate facility on Howard Ave. in the area of North Side Road. The lone recommendation from Fox being to suggest an access island be reversed to better accommodate those with disabilities who are parking in the designated spot at the site. The site plan for the four-storey, 12-unit condominium at 359 Dalhousie St. also came before the committee. Easterbrook had a question surrounding accessible parking spots, with Fox noting the developer was only obligated to provide one but opted for two instead. Easterbrook
CENTURIES OF PROGRESS:
A CELEBRATION OF
BLACK
HISTORY
MONTH WITH THE AMHERSTBURG FREEDOM MUSEUM & RIVER BOOKSHOP
had a concern that if a visitor to the building was using a spot, one of the residents could not access an accessible spot. The committee also reviewed recommendations that came out of a review of the Libro Centre. Members took turns assessing accessibility needs, with the review having a number of recommendations. Included among the comments were parking lot upgrades as the report cited potholes and uneven surfaces, as well as the possible need of more accessible spots should there be large scale special events. The committee said the number of accessible spots is sufficient for every day use. Concerns with family public washrooms included the height of a sharps container, the change station and counter space availability, the soap dispenser
heights for people in a wheelchair, and no shelf or coat hooks. Other washroom issues were that vanity mirrors are not angled. In the lobby, standalone sanitizer dispensing stations could be lowered to accommodate those in wheelchairs and there are no currently designated accessible seating areas at the tables in the lobby and viewing areas outside of the two rinks. In the main rink, committee members found the plexiglass viewing areas of the boards are scuffed by pucks and make the rink difficult to view. The committee also said there is currently no bariatric seating options in the main rink seating area. Fox said some of these items at the Libro Centre could be easily resolved while others could come before council.
FEB. 1
Book Launch: Black Activist, Black Scientist, Black Icon: The Autobiography of Dr. Howard D. McCurdy Amherstburg Freedom Museum | FREE
FEB. 3
WSO Family Concert: Singing with Flo Amherstburg Freedom Museum | Tickets $5
5:30PM 3:00PM
Art Class with Dennis K. Smith FEB. 10 Youth dKs Studio & Gallery | FREE | Registration Required
2:00PM
A Conversation about Women’s Empowerment
FEB. 17 and Community Engagement
2:00PM
Amherstburg Freedom Museum | FREE
WSO Concert: Korin Thomas-Smith Sings Mozart FEB. 23 Amherstburg Freedom Museum | Tickets $35 7:30PM
RSVP for Free Events: riverbookshop.com/events | Tickets for WSO: windsorsymphony.com
8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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Open house held for new Amherstburg apartment building
An exterior shot of the new four-storey, 75-unit apartment building at Richmond St. and Brock St. is seen above. The St. John’s Apartments are scheduled to be ready for occupancy April 1. The living room in the model unit of the home was one of the rooms people could go into during an open house held last Sunday afternoon.
By Ron Giofu One of Amherstburg’s newest apartment buildings had its doors opened on the weekend so the community could take a look. An open house was held in a model unit in the St. John’s Apartments, located at 207 Brock St. at the intersection of Richmond St. The building is owned by Jones Realty and is being constructed by the Rosati Group. The new four-storey, 75-unit building
had a steady flow of people enter Sunday afternoon with the building to have two-bedroom units, some with dens and balconies. People could choose to view the units, complete with washer/ dryers, kitchen appliances and soft close cabinetry and two bathrooms. Realtor Peter Crump from Bob Pedler Real Estate Ltd. said high ceilings, quartz counter tops, vinyl flooring and exterior masonry were other selling features. “Rosati is meticulously good at what they do,” said Crump. “Everything is
top notch.” Units range from 1,015 square feet to 1,244 square feet with prices ranging from $2,310 per month plus utilities to $2,825 per month plus utilities. Each unit gets a parking spot with additional parking spots available on a first come, first served basis at an additional $50 per month. According to Crump, they will be available for occupancy April 1. “This is the busiest open house I’ve ever had,” commented Crump. “I’ve already handed out some applications.
I expect some of the units will be rented out probably this week.” Crump added he has already received several calls about renting units in the days leading up to the open house. He said between people looking to downsize and others having to navigate the rental market, it has led to interest in the apartments.
Snow plow naming contest winners recognized By Ron Giofu The town’s recent snow plow naming contest has ended and the winners have been recognized. Winners of a gift bag of town shirts and souvenirs, swag from suppliers and a $25 Tim Horton’s gift card were Leah Brownlie for her name “Melton John,” Ken Rivait for putting forth the name “The Blizzard Wizard,” Jaime Paquette for the name “Plowabunga” and Angela McNamara for “Sir Plows a Lot.” Brownlie was at the Amherstburg public works yard last Friday morning, where she received her gift bag. Four vehicles have been outfitted with their new names. “I’ve seen other towns do it,” Brownlie said of such contests. “When I saw our town was doing it, I was excited to put in the name.” Brownlie’s “Melton John” was the top vote getter, though she pointed out she didn’t promote it very much. “It’s great,” said Brownlie. “It was a fun thing to do.” She joked “my nephew is going to think I’m so cool.” Rivait was pleased to be among the winning entries.
“Winning the contest came as a wonderful surprise and I couldn’t be happier. When brainstorming for a name, I wanted something that would capture the spirit and essence of winter while also being fun and memorable. After much contemplation, the name came to mind,” he said. “As for watching out for it on the side of one of the trucks, I have been eagerly looking forward to spotting it. It would be quite a thrill to see my chosen name displayed proudly on one of the snow plows, as it would serve as a tangible reminder of this special achievement and contribution to the community.” Rivait added he appreciates the opportunity to participate in the contest and is grateful for being selected. “This experience has been truly rewarding, and I look forward to seeing the snow plows in action with their newly named identities,” he said. “I was super surprised to see that I had won. I loved the ninja turtles growing up and they always said ‘cowabunga,’ so it was just a play on a childhood favourite. I haven’t seen many plows out yet, but I’ll definitely be looking for it on the roads,” said Paquette. “I have no idea how I came up
with the name ‘Sir Plows a Lot’,” said McNamara. “I just saw the contest and that was the name that popped into my mind and I thought it was just the perfect name for a snow plow! I was quite surprised to find out that my
name was one of the winners and I look forward to seeing Sir Plows a Lot out on the roads.” A total of 102 residents entered a snow plow name for the contest with 90 residents voting on the ten chosen names.
WINDSOR SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
CELEBRATING
BLACK HISTORY MONTH Singing with Flo Family WSO
Concer t February 3, 2024 3:00pm | Amherstburg Freedom Museum
The WSO, vocalist Flo Ndimubandi, and the Windsor Essex Youth Choir bring the brilliance of black composers to the stage. With music from Scott Joplin, Joseph Bologne, and Oscar Peterson, the whole family will be captivated! Also, get ready to sing along to pieces like “This Little Light of Mine” and “Oh Happy Day.”
Tickets $5!
Korin Thomas-Smith Sings Mozart February 23, 2024 7:30pm | Amherstburg Freedom Museum
This concert features 3 great composers of the 18th century: Jean-Philippe Rameau’s Platée is a playful and amusing opera; Joseph Cassaneà de Mondonville brought beautiful melodies to the world; Mozart‘s, The Marriage of Figaro is celebrated for its brilliant vocal writing. Featuring baritone Korin Thomas-Smith.
Tickets $35 Box Office: 519-973-1238 ext. 2
WINDSORSYMPHONY.COM
Leah Brownlie stands with the snow plow with the name “Melton John” that she had suggested. Brownlie’s suggestion was the top vote getter in the recent contest.
COMMUNITY PARTNER: AMHERSTBURG FREEDOM MUSEUM CONCERT SPONSOR: RICHARD AND COLLEEN PEDDIE
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 9
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Kicks & Giggles
Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibit opens in LaSalle
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Something will occur this week that surprises you, Aries. You may even wonder if it is a trick being played on you. It is no trick, so buckle down for an adventure. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 You have pushed your mind and body quite far over the last several days, Taurus. Now you have to slow down or pay the consequences. Do not add anything else to your list.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, you may believe you have discovered a good thing and it could be right. But don’t wait too long to act since this good thing has an expiration date. The clock is ticking. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you might not be able to control what is happening this week, but you can control how you react to different situations. Keep your distance if an altercation arises. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Something you discover about a friend this week could leave you reeling, Leo. The signs have been there for awhile and you really should have seen it coming. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, if you are on the move this week, there is a chance that you will experience some interesting people along the way. At least one person might be a good networking contact. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 More than anything right now, this week you need to relax and unwind, Libra. Take things at a slow pace, and spend more time at home with family then at work. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Try not to take any financial risks right now, Scorpio. If you are planning to invest, then you may want to get all of the facts before gambling too much in the stock market. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 This week you will be back to your best, Sagittarius. Things will work out, so use your positive attitude to the benefit of yourself and others. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, even though you are conservative by nature, this week you are ready to take a chance of some sort. Enjoy the journey even if the efforts do not bring you enormous success. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, a kind word from you may be all that is needed to bring a smile to someone’s face. Do not underestimate the power of a kind and simple gesture. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 You don’t usually lack confidence, Pisces. But you may not want to push ahead with a project for fear of failure. You should be more adventurous and not worry too much. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JANUARY 28 - Joey Fatone, Singer (47) JANUARY 29 - Adam Lambert, Singer (42) JANUARY 30 - Kid Cudi, Rapper (40) JANUARY 31 - Justin Timberlake, Singer (43) FEBRUARY 1 - Harry Styles, Singer (30) FEBRUARY 2 - Gerard Piqué, Athlete (37) FEBRUARY 3 - Warwick Davis, Actor (54)
WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to organization. ANSWERS ON PAGE 14
Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibit is now open Thursday-Sunday at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing on Front Road.
By Ron Giofu Lego lovers can head to LaSalle to get a look at what is possible with the building blocks. Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibit is now at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing through April 6. While Kenney was at a private opening for sponsors and dignitaries, the exhibit is now open to the public. Scott Bisson, the manager of culture and recreation for the Town of LaSalle, noted the exhibit was through Imagine Exhibitions and was proud LaSalle was able to get it. He pointed out it is an international exhibit that has been in places like Los Angeles, Milwaukee and Montreal. It was transported from Atlanta to LaSalle for the current exhibit. “It’s been to quite a few places,” said Bisson. Divided in to sections such as “Physical Feats,” “Super Eaters,” “Super Senses,” “Extreme Environments,” “Escape Artists” and “Color,” people can view large Lego sculptures made by Kenney and his team ranging from lions and dragonflies to the dodo bird and large bees. “(Kenney) doesn’t use anything we can’t buy off the shelf,” said Bisson. “It’s really amazing how he comes up with his ideas.” Kenney is from New York but currently lives in Amsterdam, Bisson stated, as he
praised the detail Kenney puts into his work. Multiple trucks with crates brought the exhibit in with some pieces having to be reassembled due to their size. “I really like how he uses regular Lego pieces to make his creations come to life,” said Bisson. There is other entertainment, food vendors and a Lego store as part of the show, he noted. At the end of the exhibit, people will be able to walk into an interactive area sponsored by St. Clair College where children will get an opportunity to build sculptures of their own. Kenney provides 1,000 Lego pieces for the interactive zone. There are three “break out rooms” where teachers and their classes can gather during field trips or where birthday parties can be held, said Bisson. Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) is also helping to promote the exhibit, he added. Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibit is open to the public Thursdays and Fridays from 5-9 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. General admission tickets are $13 (with tax $14.69). Bisson said the Town of LaSalle is looking to expand along the Detroit River waterfront as there are plans for such amenities as a plaza and a skate park next to the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing, which is located at 970 Front Road.
Golden Age Club to get use of old building By Ron Giofu The Fort Malden Golden Age Club is back at their 179 Victoria St. S. location and now will be able to use the building rent-free. Council has directed administration to negotiate the terms of use for the building located at 179 Victoria with the Fort Malden Golden Age Club (FMGAC), to be brought back to Council for approval of the user agreement subject to the current needs of the group and all applicable town policies. Town council further directed administration to create programming and opportunities for 179 Victoria to be rented for use as directed by council in accordance with the most current User Fee By-Law and Schedule of Fees as approved by council. Council delegated the authority to the CAO to sign and execute any such agreements, contracts, purchase orders and or procurement contracts as may be required to fully execute and provide increased programming for town facilities including 179 Victoria, in accordance with the Town’s procurement
policy, satisfactory in technical content to the director of parks, facilities and recreation and in financial content to the Town’s Chief Financial Office. An amendment to have administration show a zero balance in the budget was also passed. FMGAC president Dorothy Thrasher said they are a non-profit group that originally helped to construct the building in 1978. She said the club sold bricks and went door-to-door to cover costs the town had to pick up, though she said $133,000 of the $158,000 it cost to build the building was covered through federal and provincial grants. “The land was also donated by H. Murray Smith. There was no cost to the land,” she said, adding the former mayor was also the first donor. Then-councillor Rose Kelly also supported the seniors, with Thrasher noting “that building was supposed to be ours for life.” The club has supported the town in many ways, including supporting special events to buying drapes and tables, the latter coming when they were moved to the Libro Centre.
Continued on Page 10
10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year returning Feb. 24 By Ron Giofu Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year (ACNOY) returns next month thanks to The House Youth Centre. Proceeds from the Feb. 24 event will benefit The House, as the local youth centre falls under the Coldest Night of the Year’s mandate of assisting with mental health, homelessness and hunger. The walk itself that night will follow downtown streets similar to previous years with it starting and ending at the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St., where the House is located. The House Youth Centre is over 20 per cent towards its fundraising goal of $50,000 but board member Amy Bailey said much of the donations come in during late-January and throughout February, as the event gets closer. “We just hit $10,000 today,” program director Morghan Shearon said last Thursday afternoon. Bondy stated Shooter’s Roadhouse is the lead sponsor of ACNOY and many other businesses are stepping up to assist as well. All sponsorship dollars stay with The House while a percentage of donations stay in Amherstburg. Shooters will be the site of the afterparty. Other sponsors for this year’s Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year include Rivertown Dental, Team Brad Bondy, Peter Crump of Bob Pedler Realty, Unifor Local 2458, Enrote Productions, Amherstburg Community Services, Festival Tent and Party Rentals, River Livin’ Apparel, the Amherstburg Fire Association, Mo’s Goodies, Wigle’s Gourmet Meats and Lux Pic Photobooth Rentals. The Amherstburg Firefighters Association will be on site preparing chili, Bailey said, and serving it to the walkers. As of Saturday, there were 73 walkers and 17 teams signed up for ACNOY. A photobooth will be added to the event this year, with the photobooth also being brought to Shooters once festivities move there. Bailey said they want to raise awareness of The
Amy Bailey (left) and Morghan Shearon from The House Youth Centre model the Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year toques. Fundraising is ongoing for the Feb. 24 event.
House, as “people know it’s here but sometimes they forget.” Students need to learn how to communicate with each other instead of being behind a screen and she added The House is a safe space in which to do that. The House helps youth develop the tools to handle the stress and difficulties they often experience in their lives. “We all have different levels of what is significant in our lives,” said Bailey. “Being here can help people have perspective and help them get through their issues.” “A lot of people are positively impacted by The House,” added Shearon. Bailey added they went from 8,000-square-feet at their former location on Brock St. to 1,200-square-feet now but they hope to grow and eventually need a larger space once again.
Council waives fees for remainder of the term for club
Continued from Page 9
“The town did not supply that stuff. We did,” said Thrasher. Donations were being made to the town, she added, but stopped when the club no longer knew what the money was being used for. The FMGAC was moved from rooms to hallways while at the Libro Centre and even had belongings moved and their fridge’s locks cut. “We’ve contributed to the betterment of the town,” she added. Councillor Linden Crain said council has invested in the building by converting it back with Thrasher stating they want to stay in the
building permanently. Councillor Don McArthur said he voted to waive the fees when it came to council during budget deliberations and wanted to do so again. McArthur believed Thrasher made the club’s case well. Fees will be waived for the duration of this council term. “I echo Councillor McArthur’s view,” said Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb. “We need a place for the seniors to call their own.” Council had the building rehabbed, Gibb added. Part of the motion was to re-name the building to be the H. Murray Smith Community & Seniors
Centre, and while no one on council objected, McArthur pointed out a previous council motion that S. Ralph McCurdy also has to be honoured should a track not return to H. Murray Smith Centennial Park. Pouget noted money has been set aside in 2025 and suggested tennis courts or other amenities still be used to honour McCurdy. Input from the heritage committee will be sought. Councillor Molly Allaire added she was pleased council is repairing the building as “everything seniors have done is for the benefit of our community.”
NDP leader visits Provincial NDP leader Marit Stiles was in the region last week and included Amherstburg on her itinerary. Stiles visited The House Youth Centre and discussed the history, programming and funding with program director Morghan Shearon (right).
SPECIAL TO THE RTT
Shearon said there are 192 Coldest Night of the Year locations in Canada and it is now spreading into the United States as well. Every Coldest Night of the Year event takes place Feb. 24. There are 2K and 5K routes in Amherstburg. ACNOY hit $43,000 last year with $31,000 of that staying local. The more money The House raises means the more money they can use, Shearon added. “It’s our largest fundraiser,” added Bailey. The only staff The House has now is Shearon’s program director position and a part-time social media staff member and Bailey stated they would like to get back to a position where they can provide more help to the community as a whole. The House teamed with Enbridge to help shop for families in need at the holiday season and members were also helping at last Saturday’s TRUE Festival. The ACNOY is being aided by the “So Cold Social” at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. Feb. 15 and by a popcorn fundraiser Feb. 21-22 at the Richmond Popcorn Co. To donate or to get more information on how to get involved with Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year, visit www.cnoy.org/amherstburg or call 519-736-6811.
February 23, 2024
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 11
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Big goals for rookies but Admirals fall short 3-2 By Fred Groves
There was a playoff feel to Saturday night’s PJHL game at the Libro Centre where the host Amherstburg Admirals came up short 3-2 to the Blenheim Blades. With ten games remaining in their 42-game schedule, the Admirals are poised to finish sixth in the eight team West Stobbs Division and could possibly take on third place Blenheim in the first round of the post-season. “They (Blenheim) play a certain style and they are well coached but we gave them a good run tonight and hopefully we’ll see them in a couple of weeks and it will be different,” said Admirals’ assistant coach Zack Gervais. Gervais and fellow assistant coach Zach Guilbeault ran the bench in place of head coach Beau Hunter, who was sitting out a suspension. Saturday night saw a couple of firsts for the hosts as Finnegan Russett and Cole Vaillancourt got their first goals of the season and both were big. Russett’s came shorthanded 7:51 into the game as he was on the receiving end of some great hustle by veteran Owen Papulkas who stole the puck, hugged the boards down the ice and fed it over to Russett. It was 1-1 after 20 minutes and Vaillancourt put Amherstburg ahead just seven seconds into the middle stanza as he walked in on Blenheim goalie Owen Lemieux. First to get to the goal scorer in a big celebration behind Lemieux was Braeden Armstrong who set up the goal. “Everyone stepped up and played
RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES
Despite his stick flying up into the air, Amherstburg goalie Joe Costea made the save on Blenheim’s Everitt Swayze along with some help from Travis Knight (14).
their roles for sure. That’s good to see especially coming down the stretch,” said Gervais. Scoring for the Blades were Joey Hayter and Justin Ewald. Captain Craig Spence, who sits in the top five in scoring in the entire PJHL had a pair of assists. Amherstburg goalie Joe Costea made 31 saves on the night and turned in one of his better efforts of the season thus far. “He’s an athlete and a confident kid.
In the room he had his headphones on and was focused and ready for his chance,” said Gervais. It was a physical game and the Blades were 1-for-6 on the powerplay and the Admirals failed to score on five manadvantage chances. It was a huge game on the blueline for rookie 6’5” 245-pound Declan McGrath as he is really beginning to have a physical presence. PJHL Commissioner Terry Whiteside was in Amherstburg Saturday night
Hunter hits the road The Windsor Spitfires hosted area mascots last Saturday night at the WFCU Centre in Windsor, including the Miracle League of Amherstburg mascot “Hunter.” Hunter poses with some of his mascot buddies (left) and meets up with Miracle League players Sammy Uprichard and Emily Beauchamp (right). The Spitfires downed the Peterborough Petes 8-2.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
bearing both bad news and good news. The bad – the league has handed Admirals overage forward Mitch Demelo a minimum of 13-game suspension for an incident in the game in Mooretown back on January 20. “Sometimes we come to do interviews with certain players. I’ve got 15 more rinks to visit this year. We talk about things going on in the league,” said Whiteside. The good news – it looks like the PJHL could be adding a fifth overager. Right now, they are allowed four. “Next year we want to go with five overagers. I think it was an easy thing. We had a meeting and they (teams) consider this to be a Destination League.” Big week ahead for the Admirals as they were in Essex on Tuesday to face the 73’s, Wednesday they travel to Wheatley to play the Sharks and then its back-to-back at home this weekend. They play Saturday at 7:30 p.m. versus the Sharks and then Sunday at the Libro Centre against the Mooretown Flags at 7 p.m. SLAPSHOTS:… Amherstburg veteran forward Owen Papulkas has at least one point in the past nine games… Nice show of sportsmanship by Admirals trainer Jenna Jardine who helped out with the care of Blenheim’s Ethan Chittle who had a serious knee injury in the third period… The Amherstburg Stars U9 who are undefeated so far this season were at the Libro Centre and got a chance to meetand-greet the Admirals.
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 12
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Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 13
Community Calendar
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8 FEAST WITH FRIENDS; Valentine’s Day bingo part of Amherstburg Community Services’ (ACS) “Feast with Friends” luncheon. Runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., $9 for lunch and bingo. Call 519-736-5471 to reserve your seat. ACS is located within the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St.
and spaghetti, ostrich casserole, rabbit cacciatore, ocean perch, crocodile bites, broasted chicken, vegetable medley and broasted potatoes. For tickets or info, visit www.catchcrooks.com.
ONGOING ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. NATIONAL CHILI DAY; Amherstburg New members welcome. For info, e-mail Community Services’ “Feast with Friends” rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or luncheon celebrates National Chili Day call Susanne at 519-990-2775. at the Amherstburg Community Hub, 320 Richmond St. Meal and program costs $9. MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 519-736- Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). 5471 to reserve your seat. Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 Also available to those recovering from TIM’S FAMOUS CHILI DINNER; illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship affordable meals provided to residents Mission invites the community to come and of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and enjoy Tim’s Famous Chili Dinner with the LaSalle residents. ACS caters to dietary fundraiser being held from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, a bowl of chili with coleslaw, rolls, coffee/ main course and dessert. Cost $7.50 per tea and dessert. Adults $15, children under meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details. 12 $8. For tickets, stop by the mission and see Violet or Kim, or call 519-736-9140. GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, Mission is located at 298 Victoria St. S. located at 179 Richmond St. is offering social activities five days a week, $10 a FRIDAY, MARCH 1 year to join. There are over 160 members WILD GAME DINNER; Held as a who have fun playing euchre, pepper, fundraiser for Crime Stoppers Windsor- bingo, cribbage, and bridge and doing Essex County. Held at Colasanti’s Tropical line dancing. We also have three special Garden, 1550 Road 3 East, in Ruthven. luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. Buffet style, cash bar, raffles, silent auction. You pick which activities you want to Tickets $75 each, doors open at 5 p.m. participate in. Visit www.goldenagecentre. Appetizers include European pickerel ca to see how to join, participate, and learn soup, water buffalo chili and salad/buns. how we support our community. Dinner features elk stew, venison sausage, kangaroo stir fry, spicy water buffalo curry, ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY bison stroganoff, wild boar meatballs 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 are welcome. We are on Facebook!
www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.
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
AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. 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!
ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 assistance. Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community month ($12 donation). Serving burgers service volunteer hours are available and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 for high school students. Outside jobs at p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30- info@bryerswood.com. 6:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA welcome. Sportsmen Association continues to accept FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse donations of empty beer and wine bottles. Church, in conjunction with Feeding People who wish to donate their empties Windsor, invites the public to come can drop them off at the rear of the club, Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For All welcome. Come meet others in the information, visit www.amasportsmen.com community and enjoy some good food. No or call 519-736-5706. registration required. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to St.). join the “Founders Club.” Donors help MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING fund general operations fund of the SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and presenting mental health and counselling over become “Founders Club” members services at The House Youth Centre. Runs and have one square of camp property every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for sponsored in their name. Multiple squares people between the ages of 12-25. The available. Tax receipts provided. For info, House is located at 320 Richmond St. For visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-9967364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com. details, call 519-800-8640.
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14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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C L A SSI F I EDS ANNOUNCEMENTS from $25+tax WORD ADS from $15+tax
Hulse, Marie
CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com to book your spot!
Passed away peacefully at home on January 27, 2024 at 89 years of age. Beloved wife of the late Reginald (2013). Loving mother of Graeme, Janet, Colin (Elizabeth), Susan (David). Dear nan of Alex (Heather), Stacey (Shawn), Kristopher (Adele) and Lee (Maretta). Precious great nan of Mackenzie, Casey, Rylee, Finn, Dallas, Ady, Miles and Kepler. Dear sister of the late Audrey (Daniel) and Reginald. Will be missed by the Vegh family.
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
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I have a few spots available. 20 years of experience. Serving Amherstburg and area. Call Stephanie 519792-3431
Happy Birthday
Laura!
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APARTMENT 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.
GOLD + SILVER JEWELRY + ALL COIN SELLERS Please Note: I did not recently send a colored brochure to your home. My buying price(backed by 57 Years’ Experience) is often up to Double this company from Quebec. Before you sell take the time to get a second opinion Top Prices Paid forALL Gold PEST CONTROL + Silver JEWELRY, even AND WILD ANIMAL some costume. Any Gold CONTROL (even teeth) **OLD COINS; DELINE’S SERVING Canada, USA, World War AMHERSTBURG since Medals, Windup Watches, 1988. Call 519-736-2448. Mintsets,Old paper money Free Estimates**Locally Owned** 57 Years of Classifieds Work! “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Not Expensive Colored Place Your Ad Today! Brochures” Dan Jones 519.736.4175 B.A.B.Ed. 519-818-1805
SCRAMBLE ANSWER
SUDOKU ANSWERS
SYSTEM
Memorial donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Association Canada would be appreciated.
While this year is a milestone for you, I won’t reveal publicly what it is! Thank you for your friendship as I know there are days where I don’t deserve it. I enjoy working with you and I hope you have a great day! I appreciate you letting me be a part of your family.
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RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS
-Ron
News tips are always welcome! Call Ron Giofu
519-736-4175 SCRAMBLE ANSWER
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Cremation services to be held. Memorial visitation will take place on Thursday, February 1, 2024 from 1pm until time of service at 3pm at Families First 585 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg (519-969-5841). Share memories, photos, or make a donation at www.FamiliesFirst.ca
STRUHAR, Margaret
Margaret Struhar (nee Zelenak) passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on January 18, 2024, at the age of 90. Reunited with her late husband, Michael Struhar (2013). Loving sister to Ed Zelenak (Clara), half-brother to Samuel Zelenak (1973) (Anne 2011), sister-in-law to Sue Struhar (Andy 2016). Cherished mother to Jerry, Gary (Sylvia), Daniel, Robert, Thomas (2022) (Kathy). Grandmother to Becky Struhar (Vince), Amanda Struhar (Bryan), Lauren Struhar (Cody), Richard Struhar (Monique), Annemarie Sterling (Brian), Alyssa Gordon (Mason), Alanna Schmitt (Andrew), Roger Struhar, Kim, Stacey Kenney (Ray), Nicole (David). Great grandmother to Maya, Val, Liam, Cylias, Micah, Axle, Cam, Amelia, Adrian, Ashley, Tavish, Magnus, Lennox, Graham, Madelynn, Rowan, Damien (Joy), James, Devon (Morgan), Dayjon (Keerstin), Zackry, Brianna (Noah), Raia and Karissa. Great-Great Grandmother to Isaiah, Kade, Julien, Kyla and Kade. Aunt to Orin (Susan), Eleve (Travis), Janet (Mark), Lydia, Paul, and Patti Struhar. Missed by many friends and extended family. Margaret was born in Windsor, Ontario on September 17, 1933 and raised in the West Lorne area. She moved to Amherstburg after marrying her forever love and worked on the family farm for many years while raising 5 hard working boys. Margaret and Michael could often be found making memories at their cottage on Marten River or the occasional trip to Florida and California. Margaret was always involved in the lives of her family, friends and faith. She was a gentle and caring person who truly loved everyone. A funeral service took place on Tuesday, January 23 at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Amherstburg.
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SYSTEM
A special thank you to the Erie Shores Hospice staff for an outstanding job keeping Margaret comfortable in her last few weeks. In memory of Margaret, donations to the Erie Shores Hospice or Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum (519-817-5712) would be greatly appreciated. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at jhsuttonfuneral.
Classified Advertising Deadline is Monday at 12 noon.
Wednesday, January 31, 2024 – River Town Times – 15
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Jr. boys basketball team in tough game vs. first place Massey By Ron Giofu
North Star’s Ashton Fevreau (left) attempts a shot last week against Massey.
It was one of the tougher games on the schedule for the North Star Wolves junior boys basketball team and the results proved it. The winless Wolves, a team filled with mainly Grade 9 players, went up against a talented and undefeated Massey Mustangs team last Monday night and lost 83-25 in WECSSAA Tier 2 league action. North Star head coach Ben Pelger believed his team played decently against the visiting Mustangs, despite the score. “They did not give up,” said Pelger. Pelger pointed out it was their second game of the season against the strong Massey team, and the Wolves scored twice as many points in the most recent game as they did in the first encounter. Massey beat North Star 62-12 in Windsor Dec. 5. “When you look at them, you can see an improvement in our team,” said Pelger. “They are playing with more confidence
Villy takes the title
and are on the right path for next year.” The Wolves played well the week previous, losing 58-50 at Assumption before falling at home to Belle River 63-28. Pelger said they face strong teams this season and it is tough to improve that way, but there is progress nonetheless. The junior Wolves will resume action following the exam break with a Feb. 2 game at Belle River, starting at 3 p.m. They conclude the regular season Feb. 8 with a 4 p.m. home game versus the Cardinal Carter Cougars.
The junior boys have only two Grade 10 players while the rest are in Grade 9, Pelger pointed out. The senior boys team were also scheduled to play Jan. 22, but instead claimed a 15-0 victory as the game against UMEI was cancelled. The senior Wolves come out of the exam break with a home game Feb. 6 at 5:30 versus Ste. Cecile before concluding the regular season on the road Feb. 8 at Westview Freedom Academy at 4 p.m. The senior Wolves basketball team now has a 3-5 record.
Malden Park Public Engagement
You can participate in shaping Malden Park’s future by: ATTENDING the 2nd Public Open House, February 5th, 5 pm-7 pm at The Libro Centre, 3295 CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING Meloche Road TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT STATUTORYCOMPLETING PUBLIC MEETING: the survey, TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public deadline February 23,p.m.2024 meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024 commencing at 5:00 in the Town of Amherstburg
Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.
The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats had some success at the recent Black & Gold Volleyball Classic at North Star High School. The junior girls went the distance and came home with the tournament championship after a full Saturday of volleyball action.
Check out our newly redesigned website! www.rivertowntimes.com
For more info and the survey visit talktheburg.ca/malden
ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, February 22, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca . Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.
For assistance with accommodation, the meeting proceedings only, please please contact Town Hall at: 519-736-0012 or THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT: accessibility@amherstburg.ca ANY PERSON who wishes watch http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html
visit
This rezoning application affects the definition of supportive community home. This use is listed as a permitted use in the Residential Second Density (R2) Zone and was added to the Zoning By-law in 1990 for a development at 184 Victoria Street South. This rezoning, if approved, will amend the existing definition of supportive community home from “means a residential building with central kitchen, administrative, and possibly medical, facilities and a number of housekeeping units or rooms where not more than 20 senior citizens reside and receive care consistent with their needs, either by on-site staff or through the visitation of various health care professionals” TO “means a residential building with central kitchen, administrative, and possibly medical, facilities and a number of housekeeping units or rooms where the number of residents are limited to the number permitted by all applicable law, including but not limited to Ontario Building Code and Ontario Fire Code, for the existing structure as of the date of this by-law, for occupants to reside and receive care consistent with their needs, either by on-site staff or through the visitation of various health care and support professionals.”
CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT
The effect of the amendment will bring the definition up to current standards in that the Town can regulate land and property but not the tenancy of a parcel. The amendment will also allow for the capacity of existing structures in the building as regulated by all applicable law.
STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, February 26, 2024 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.
ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by Thursday, February 22, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.
ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, February 22, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca . Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.
NO PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the bylaw was passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to the Council or, in the opinion of the Ontario Land Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.
ANY PERSON who wishes watch http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html
the
meeting
proceedings
only,
please
visit
THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT: This rezoning application affects the definition of supportive community home. This use is listed as a permitted use in the Residential Second Density (R2) Zone and was added to the Zoning By-law in 1990 for a development at 184 Victoria Street South. This rezoning, if approved, will amend the existing definition of supportive community home from
IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Town of Amherstburg before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there is reasonable grounds to do so. Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/04/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If you want to learn more about why and how the Town collects your information, write to the Town Clerk's Office, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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Deadline Today
FEBRUARY Is Black History Month
Sun 4 Mon 5 Tues 6 Walking Track @ amherstburg.ca/ Drainage Board the Libro Centre beactive Meeting Closed 3-4:30pm 6PM talktheburg.ca Sunday Town Hall Malden Park “Fun-day” Open House Turf Tots on Libro Centre The Indoor Turf 5PM-7PM 9-11AM FREE Mon 12 Tues 13 Special Council Transportation Meeting Senior Public Master Plan Planning 4PM Skating OPEN HOUSE Regular Council 6-6:50PM Meeting 6PM Libro Centre $4/person Town Hall 5PM-7PM Walking BIZ Discovery Track @ The Libro Centre talktheburg.ca/ Closed 3Biz 4:30pm Today Sun 11
Wed
Thurs
1
RESCHEDULED to Feb 29th Amherstburg Environmental Advisory Committee Meeting 5PM Town Hall
7 Thurs
Committee of Adjustment Meeting 8AM Town Hall
TENTATIVE: Heritage Committee Meeting 5:30PM Town Hall
Wed
Thurs
14
Happy Valentine’s Day!
3 Fri 2 Sat Beginner Skating Summer Student 11:30-12:20PM Youth Skating Lottery Job 4-4:50PM Opportunities $4/person or $12/family(max 5) amherstburg.ca/ Adult Drop-In Hockey careers 8-9:50PM $5/person Public Skating 12:30-2:20PM Cancelled
8
Fri 9 Sat 10 Beginner Skating Paranormal 11:30-12:20PM Investigation Public Skating returns to the 12:30-2:20PM Park House Youth Skating Museum 4-4:50PM $25/person $4/person or Advanced tickets $12/family(max 5) required www.parkhouse Adult Drop-In Hockey museum.com 8-9:50PM Recycle $5/person
15
Fri
Drop In Hockey 12-1PM Cancelled
“NEW”
16
By-Law Complaints now submitted in person at Town Hall or visit: amherstburg.ca/ bylawcomplaint
Sat
17
Monday, January 19th Garbage Collection will be picked up Saturday, January 17th
Watercolour Painting WITH COLLEEN CASTONGUAY
Saturday, February 17 and Saturday, February 24 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm In this 2-day course, each participant will complete an 8" x 10" floral watercolour painting - the African Violet. All supplies and easy to follow, step-by-step instructions will be provided. Everyone is welcome including beginners and those with watercolour experience. Ages 16+
$52 + tax/person (includes all materials) Libro Centre, 3295 Meloche Pre-registration is required. Register online at: townofamherstburg.perfectmind.com or call (519) 736-5712 519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5