River Town Times - July 31, 2024 by River Town Times

Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy sets new records

By Ron Giofu

Thousands of people streamed through the downtown streets of Amherstburg Sunday afternoon for the biggest car show ever.

The 18th annual Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy Show saw upwards of 730 vehicles on Dalhousie St., Richmond St., Murray St., Rankin Ave., North St. and in Toddy Jones Park with vehicles from different eras and different styles represented.

Car show committee member Scott Elliott said vehicles came from Michigan and around southwestern Ontario for the show.

Elliott said the show turned out to be “excellent” this year. He said the number of vehicles was slightly more than last year.

“It’s been a great turnout, great weather, great volunteers and great band,” stated Elliott. “It’s a record year.”

Steve Heinrich of Beverly Hills, Michigan captured the Paulie Award as best-in-show this year. Elliott said Heinrich’s 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air was a finalist for a Ridler Award at the Detroit Autorama earlier this year, the first time a Ridler finalist had ever been up for an award in Amherstburg.

“Car guys know the Ridler Award,” said Elliott.

Elliott added that organizers know that people came to town early for the car show.

“People were coming in for the weekend,” he said. “That’s what you like to see. They were staying at airBnB’s.”

Heinrich said he has owned the classic car for about

four years but it has been in his family for much longer.

“My father bought it in 1959,” said Heinrich. “It’s been in my family since then.”

The car has seen extensive work to restore it, including stripping it and dipping it in acid. A new chassis was put onto the vehicle to allow it to drive and operate more like a modern car. He was at the Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show last year with a different car with this year’s car only recently going into shows, including Autorama.

Heinrich said he likes the people at the Amherstburg show and praised organizers for putting it together.

“I have friends that live in Amherstburg and some in Windsor,” he said. “We make it a point to come every year.”

Continued on Page 15

Steve Heinrich of Beverly Hills, Michigan (left) accepts the Paulie Award for best-in-show as part of Sunday afternoon’s Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show. Presenting him the award are committee members Eleanor Renaud and Scott Elliott. The award is named in memory of Renaud’s husband Paul, one of the founders of the show and a former Amherstburg town councillor.

Crowds head down Dalhousie St. to look at the over 700 classic vehicles (above) while vehicles also lined Richmond St. during Sunday’s car show in Amherstburg (below).

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

McGregor Music Festival raises record amount of $95,000

By Ron Giofu

The McGregor Music Festival proceeds have been added up and they resulted in a record total.

The festival was held June 9 at Co-An Park and drew approximately 900 people through the gates. Now that the money from the event has been added up, a cheque for $95,000 was officially unveiled at a wrap-up party at the home of organizing committee chair Sue LeClair last Tuesday evening.

LeClair said the goal for this year was to raise $80,000 and was pleasantly surprised they exceeded it.

“Wow,” she said, of her reaction. “I’m just happy, ecstatic. We never thought we could hit it. Next year, it’s $100,000. Watch us. Here we go.”

The attendance was a large factor as to why the fundraising total was so high, LeClair believed, but it was also the generosity of those who came out.

“We had 900 people and they brought their wallets,” said LeClair. “That made the difference. The weather was also good. I didn’t think that park could hold 900 people.”

Houida Kassem, executive director with the Windsor Cancer Centre, said in addition to opening their wallets, people also opened their hearts.

“Everyone was enjoying themselves,” said Kassem. “Kudos to Sue and her volunteers who work at this for year after year after year.”

Bands this year included C2C with Charlene, Lookin’ Back, the All Nighters, Bad Moustache, Jammin’ for

Wellness, Kenny & the Cruisers, Exit 31 and Crow Bar Hotel.

“Our bands are kick butt,” said LeClair. “Without the bands, we wouldn’t have any people.”

LeClair added the sponsors were great as well, as they wouldn’t have been able to do what they did and raise the amount of money they did without the sponsors. She stated the raffle prizes were “unbelievable” and the committee was also grateful for the 76 classic

vehicle owners that turned out.

The pig auction alone raised $1,935.

“It takes an army,” added Kassem.

Kassem said the support the McGregor Music Festival received means cancer patients get to stay closer to home to receive the treatments they need. Proceeds from this year’s festival go towards the patient assistance fund and patient care. Anything the Windsor Cancer Centre can do to improve the patient experience and to make their treatments as seamless as possible will be done, Kassem indicated.

“It’s well run,” Kassem said of the music festival. “It’s a family atmosphere. There’s no pretense. It’s total love for the cancer community.”

Fundraising efforts could expand next year, with LeClair stating they are considering selling T-shirts celebrating cancer survivors.

“You’d be amazed how many people are survivors,” she said. “You don’t know unless you talk to them. If you survived it, you should be proud.”

The festival draws people from all around the area, LeClair added, with many coming in from Amherstburg this year. Kassem emphasized the foundation is grateful for the efforts of the organizing committee, all of the volunteers and those who supported the festival.

The McGregor Music Festival is always on the Sunday before Father’s Day. LeClair said the date for next year’s festival is set and will return to Co-An Park June 8, 2025.

Amherstburg resident celebrates her 105th birthday

By Ron Giofu

A milestone birthday for Amherstburg resident Margaret Hunt was celebrated Sunday afternoon.

Friends, family and well-wishers came to Richmond Terrace LongTerm Care Home to celebrate Hunt’s 105th birthday. Hunt’s actual birthday is today (July 31) but her family and friends were able to get together Sunday to greet and pay tribute to their beloved family member at a small party.

One of the family members who celebrated with Margaret was her younger brother Julien Parent, who recently turned 93-years-old.

“My mother always said ‘one day at a time’,” said her son David.

Longevity is in the Hunt family. David recalled his grandfather being the first tinsmith at Ford of Canada. Margaret grew up on Pillette Road in Windsor where her family owned much land between Tecumseh Road and Riverside Drive. Strip farming was done in that area back when Margaret was younger.

The Secret History of Audrey James

by Heather Marshall

Margaret has three children, seven grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren. Some of them were on hand Sunday afternoon.

Book Review

Having loved Looking for Jane, I was excited to read this new release by Heather Marshall. The Secret History Of Audrey James reveals the timelines of two women: Audrey in Nazi occupied Germany, and Kate in current day England. Both women are dealing with past guilt and trauma, and as they reveal their secret histories to each other, a beautiful story of bravery, understanding, and friendship is revealed. Another historical fiction standout! Whatever Heather Marshall writes next, it will be at the very top of my TBR list.

Finally Seen

by Kelly Yang

“It’s a large family,” he said.

While Margaret is originally from Windsor, her husband was from Amherstburg. Margaret moved to Amherstburg in 1941 and they have lived here for many years.

Mayor Michael Prue was on hand to recognize Margaret, and he was joined by Councillor Diane Pouget. Pouget has known the family for many years.

“This has been an auspicious occasion,” said Prue.

The mayor recalled that over his 35-year political career, he has presented many birthday certificates to 90-year-olds, 100-year-olds and a 102-year-old but Margaret sets the mark.

“I have never had the opportunity to present a plaque to a 105-year-old,” he said.

Prue wished Margaret well on behalf of the town for her milestone birthday.

Finally Seen is a heartwarming book about a girl from Beijing named Lina Goa. Lina’s Mom and Dad move to America with her baby sister when she is five. Lina stays with her Grandmother in China. Five years later, she moves to be with her family. She is excited to live a fabulous new life in America but it’s not exactly like the postcards. I really enjoyed this book, it kept me captivated and I wanted to keep reading more. This is a great book about overcoming challenges and staying true to yourself.

Review by Darrie-Ann, Bookseller at River Bookshop

Review by Ella Hallett, Junior Book Club Reader at River Bookshop

The McGregor Music Festival committee, led by chair Sue LeClair (front row, left) presented a cheque for $95,000 to the WIndsor Cancer Centre Foundation. Foundation executive director Houida Kassem is in the front row centre.

Margaret Hunt (front row, seated) was honoured on the occasion of her 105th birthday. Councillor Diane Pouget and Mayor Michael Prue joined family members and friends for a gathering Sunday at Richmond Terrace Long-Term Care Home. Hunt's birthday is July 31.

Antique binder helps with Steam & Gas Engine show preparations

By Ron Giofu

The Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Show is just over a week away and work was done in an Amherstburg field last week to prepare.

A 1922 Massey Harris binder was put back into service last Thursday afternoon in a Middle Side Road field owned by local farmer Tony and Yvonne Simon

to take off wheat that will be used in an old-fashioned threshing machine at the Aug. 9-11 show at Co-An Park in McGregor. The binder was owned, and subsequently donated to the museum, by Amherstburg resident Morris Kurzuk.

A tractor dating back to the 1950’s pulled the binder while a tractor dating back to the 1960’s pulled a wagon that

Dear Valued Customers, Family and Friends

Since opening Romano’s Specialty Meats and Italian Deli in 1970, we have been humbled and blessed to operate our business for 54 years, in our hometown of Amherstburg. Now, we made the decision to retire effective mid-September. This decision, made with thoughtful consideration, was challenging, but we are eager to create new memories in this next chapter with our family and friends.

While serving the Windsor/Essex community, we have valued ourselves upon the principles of integrity, respect, and pride. We are upholding these same principles as we announce our retirement and close our business that we have lovingly called home for so long. We would also like to announce that Romano’s has not been sold; rather, we are closing our doors to spend the remaining years to slow down and create memories with our family.

To our staff, we thank you. Undoubtedly, we would not be Romano’s without our staff. We are so fortunate to have the five generations to dedicated staff, from parents to their kids, and then to their grandkids, work alongside us and offer you the highest quality of customer service daily. These special individuals are not only our stay, but they have come to feel like family.

We also offer our most sincere gratitude to you, our devoted and loyal customers, as you have continuously supported us throughout the years. From near and far, you have helped us grow and thrive as a business, always warmly receiving our unique products and services. We have also loved growing alongside your families. Seeing new generations of smiling faces each week has truly warmed our hearts.

Please note that we will still be taking our regularly scheduled vacation in August. We will be closed from August 5th until August 13th and will reopen for business on Wednesday, August 14th. Additionally, you are encouraged to use your gift cards as soon as possible.

We look forward to continuing to serve you throughout the summer and until we close in mid-September. Even though our doors may be closing, and the end of an unforgettable era is approaching, we will always be Romano’s.

The Mancini Family thanks you. With our utmost love and respect, Claudio and Anna Mancini

The “Happy Together” duo perform from 2-5 p.m. Saturday with the duo comprised of artists Billy Fox and Gary Best. Crystal Gage is slated to perform from 12-4 p.m. Sunday.

Struhar said the “turkey in the straw” contest returns this year, as it is popular with children. Kids go in a pile of hay and dig out tokens that can be redeemed at vendors.

“It works out well. It keeps the kids happy,” said Struhar.

Sarah Parks Horsemanship will also be on hand for pony rides.

volunteers stacked with bales of wheat that came from the binder.

Gary Struhar, president of the Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum, said they have the bulk of the entertainment and activities booked and finalized. He pointed out the theme of this year’s show is rare collectibles.”

The 38th annual show will allow people to see the Walkerville and Fryer steam engines and to take a look at the steam turbine, steam engines, the “hit and miss” engines and more. The Southern Ontario Military Musters will display vehicles, weapons and uniforms Aug. 10. Struhar also pointed out the Ontario Antique Trucks group will be on hand.

McCormick Auctions will host an auction Sunday. Both Saturday and Sunday will see threshing demonstrations with the aim of getting the Carl Smith sawmill running in time for the show as well. Raffle and 50/50 draws will also be conducted.

A staple of the show – the annual tractor parade – is currently scheduled for that Saturday morning (Aug. 10) at 9 a.m. The parade starts at St. Clement’s Church on Walker Road, heads south to Concession 11 in Essex, before heading into Co-An Park.

Last year’s show drew an estimated 1,000 people throughout the weekend, and organizers would like to match or top that this year, but Struhar noted other events are going on around Essex County that weekend such as the Comber Fair and the Kingsville Music Festival.

Admission to the show is $8 for adults, $6 for children 6-12 with children under 6 free. There is half-price for seniors Friday, Aug. 9. A three-day pass is $12. Show hours are Aug. 9 12-6 p.m., Aug. 10 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Aug. 11 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

For more information, please visit www.essexsteamandgasengine.com or www.facebook.com/ EssexCountySteamandGasMuseum. People can also contact Struhar at ecsagem@gmail.com, or rsesbulletin@ aol.com or call 519-817-5712.

Each Box of 16 - 8oz Steaks Vacuum Packed - Frozen Ea.

Volunteers with the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum gathered at the farm of Tony and Yvonne Simon in Amherstburg last Thursday afternoon to take off wheat with a 1922 Massey Harris binder. They stand with the binder and a modern-day combine (above). The binder is seen in action (below).

Town holds “parks summit” to gain input on all Amherstburg parks

By Ron Giofu

The public had an opportunity to provide input on every park in the town’s parks system this past Monday.

A “parks summit” was held all day Monday at the Libro Centre with displays showing current and future proposals for each of Amherstburg’s parks put up around the main rink. Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon called it “a high level look” at all of the parks in the Town of Amherstburg.

Baillargeon said the input will be factored into the town’s updated parks master plan (PMP). She stated the last PMP was adopted in 2018 and 75 per cent of the recommendations have been adopted.

“We’re still working through some of it,” she said.

The PMP works in conjunction with other planning documents, such as the Official Plan and active transportation plan among others, with Baillargeon adding the “parks summit” open house was drill down and get ideas on what the community wants.

The summit allowed people to see all the parks, see how the park system can operate and what can go where. Baillargeon said the goal was to determine “what do we want and where do we want it?”

“What this is going to do is help us with any future grants,” she added. “If you have a master plan, it can go a long way.”

Baillargeon said upper levels of government look for plans and public input into them when municipalities apply for grants. The parks master plan

is anticipated to be complete in August or September 2025, she added.

“This is one step in a big process,” she said.

Questions have been raised both in town council meetings and by the public regarding why H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and Jack Purdie Park were included given they went through well attended processes a few years ago.

Baillargeon said the town would like master plans for every park and administration does not want to undo what was done several years ago, but possibly add to it depending on input.

“We’re not looking to re-invent the wheel on parks that have already been done,” she said. “We’re trying to bring

all of them together and create a cohesive parks system.”

Representatives from the Town of Essex and Town of LaSalle were on hand due to Amherstburg sharing Co-An Park and River Canard Park respectively, she said. Forec Consulting representatives were also present. The summit ran from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Baillargeon said the online survey will be open at www.talktheburg.ca/parksmaster until Sept. 2. Paper copies will also be available at town hall and the Libro Centre, she noted.

Chantal Kristensen and her mother Lucy were two of the people in attendance. Chantal said she is planning to study urban planning and wanted to

check out what plans were and how they might be implemented going forward.

“I really like the ones with wetlands and trails,” said Chantal. “I don’t think we have a lot of trails right now.”

Green space and trails were important to Chantal with Lucy adding bike paths were also key.

“I think all ideas are good but it means more if you can access them,” said Chantal.

Dave Tales said he attended open houses several years ago and wanted to provide input again this time.

“I came tonight because we went through this four or five years ago,” he said. “I paid attention then to all of the different plans of what they wanted to do.”

Tales wanted to know if there were any changes or modifications proposed. Many of the suggestions proposed Monday were “too much,” citing a proposed sledding hill at Jack Purdie Park as an example He said with short winters in this region and sledding hills at Centennial Park and the Libro Centre, there was no need for another one.

A second splash pad was also questioned by Tales.

“They’ve hit everything,” he said. “Everyone wants everything but we can’t have everything because then we have to pay for it.”

Tales said he prefers open space, noting he often chooses to walk his dog over grass than stick to sidewalks and trails. He recalled playing multiple sports on the same field when he was a kid.

“Let kids be themselves and just go out and play,” he said.

Pair of events upcoming at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada

By RTT Staff

Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada is gearing up for a pair of events in early August.

The first is the Living History Festival, which takes place this Saturday (Aug. 3) from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The public is invited to, according to a news release, “imagine stepping back in time to witness the War of 1812 come to life, but out of the corner of your eye you catch a glimpse of something unusual – a Roman soldier is walking by?”

Fort Malden National Historic Site

is aiming to have the Living History Festival bring history to life – all of it – with an “immersive historical experience.”

“Watch as history comes alive with the sights, smells, and sounds of history. Visit period encampments as re-enactors and volunteers recreate the lifestyles of several different time periods. Experience live cooking demonstrations, featured talks and historic weapons demonstrations that will blow you away!” said Julia Grcevic, public relations and communications officer with Parks Canada’s Southwestern Ontario Field Unit.

“Hear musical performances that will move you through time and talk to a wide array of experts about the history of Amherstburg through their lenses.”

Admission to the Living History Festival is $10.75 for adults, $9.75 for seniors and $5.75 or youth 17 and under.

Fort Malden’s murder mystery event returns Aug. 10 from 6-8 p.m. That will allow people to play detective in a “who done it?” event where summer students will be in various roles offering clues to those in attendance to see if they can crack the case.

People will have to move around

the grounds of Fort Malden National Historic Site, and grill the suspects in an attempt to solve the mystery.

Some lucky people will win prizes that evening.

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 on both events, call Fort Malden at 519-736-5416.

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Chantal Kristensen looks over some of the photos of current and future plans for local parks. The Town of Amherstburg held a “parks summit” Monday at the Libro Centre where residents had the opportunity to provide input into all parks within Amherstburg’s system.

County council looks at best bang for buck from external commitments

By Fred Groves

Essex County council wants to know whether or not its residents are getting a good level of value when it comes to investing in tourism and economic development.

At the recent council meeting, CAO Sandra Zwiers presented a report with results of a recent survey of county council members, economic development staff of the seven local municipalities and local CAO’s regarding Tourism Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island (TWEPI) and Invest Windsor-Essex (IWE).

“It was great to see the engagement and the number of responses,” said Zwiers.

The survey was prompted by a motion from Kingsville Mayor Dennis

Rogers who wanted to know if Essex County was getting good value for its money when it came to the two discretionary regional shared services.

Results from the survey noted that only 43 percent believe that municipalities are getting good value when it comes to the services provided by IWE.

“The data shows that what they’ve done, doesn’t have full support,” said Rogers.

Results of the survey also indicated that 56 percent felt there was no duplication in what was being done at the local level and what IWE did and 53 percent responded that they were satisfied with IWE.

In 2024, Essex County budgeted $1,122,060 with IWE.

“I’ve made it abundantly clear that

they (IWE) cannot count on county council continuing if we don’t see them stepping up,” said Warden Hilda MacDonald, who is a board member of IWE.

Responding, IWE Interim CEO Joe Goncalves said in a letter that his organization’s five-year strategic plan is three years overdue.

As far as TWEPI is concerned, the survey results were more upbeat as 88 per cent responded that the services it provides either compliments or augments those of local municipalities and 96 per cent said the county should continue to support TWEPI.

Essex County budgeted $782,700 in 2024.

“Overall, the results were quite positive but with any service there is always

room for improvement,” said Zwiers about the overall survey results.

Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy felt the survey results to be helpful and wanted the process repeated in two years to see if there is any improvement in services from the two groups.

“I felt we were just cutting checks and now we have data,” said Bondy.

Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey asked what the contribution of the City of Windsor towards TWEPI is and IWE to which Zwiers said it was 50/50 with the county.

LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche urged that IWE make a presentation to county council prior to the 2025 budget talks.

“They could be asking for more,” said Meloche.

Three drivers face impaired driving charges in separate incidents

Officers laid three impaired driving charges as a result of separate alleged incidents last week, with two of the incidents being investigated by the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment and the third by Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers in Kingsville.

The first matter was reported July 20 at approximately 8:30 p.m. Windsor police say an officer stopped a vehicle in the area of Fryer St. and Richmond St. As a result, police add that a 53-year-old male driver was charged with Impaired Operation, Fail to provide a Breath Sample and Driving While under Suspension. The vehicle was impounded, police also state.

The second matter was reported July 22 at approximately 10 p.m. Police say officers responded to a single motor vehicle accident in the 1300 block of Front Road South. According to police, the driver of the vehicle was a 51-year-old male and he was charged with Operation While Impaired and Exceed blood alcohol concentration. He was later released with a future court date, Windsor police add.

The third charge came in Kingsville last Thursday evening after members of the Kingsville detachment of the OPP were dispatched to a single vehicle collision on Road 6 West where the vehicle left the roadway and entered the ditch. It is alleged the

driver had previously consumed alcohol, with the OPP adding the driver was arrested and transported to a local OPP detachment for further testing. A 31-year-old Amherstburg resident was charged with Operation while impaired – alcohol and Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus). The accused in the case in Kingsville is scheduled to appear in court Aug. 8.

Accident

Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment officers responded to a collision July 19 where one driver was subsequently issued a Provincial Offences Notice related to the accident. It was a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Sandwich St. S. and Richmond St.

Crime Severity Index

Statistics Canada released their 2023 Crime Severity Index (CSI) last week and Windsor police has indicated how Windsor and Amherstburg was ranked. In the areas they police, the CSI increased by a total of 4.8 per cent.

The violent crime serverity index increased 15.5 per cent and the non-violent crime severity index went up 0.6 per cent.

Police say that compared with data from 2022, robberies were up 21 per cent and assaults up 16 per cent. Of the total number of assaults combined between the two municipalities, 45 per cent were related to intimate partner violence.

Primary drivers of non-violent crimes include a decrease of 12.7 per cent in break-and-enters but shoplifting was up 24.8 per cent, police say.

“We continue to take a data-driven, evidencebased policing approach to promote public safety and reduce crime,” said Deputy Police Chief Jason Crowley in a statement posted to social media. “This strategy includes adjustments to resource allocation and working collaboratively with community partners to address the underlying issues that drive violent crime, such as mental health, substance use, and homelessness.”

Windsor police add the CSI measures changes in the level of severity of crime in Canada from year to year. All crimes are assigned a weight based on their seriousness. The level of seriousness is based on actual sentences handed down by the courts in all provinces and territories.

—All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment and Essex County OPP

Brunner Ave. fire call sees damage to contents, not structure

By RTT Staff

A fire at a Brunner Ave. residence caused damage to contents of a garage, but thankfully not the garage itself.

Amherstburg firefighters were called to the home last Thursday afternoon and deputy chief Dan Monk said they were there roughly 90 minutes.

“It was a small wagon that caught

fire and we caught it before it got to the building itself,” said Monk.

The wagon and its contents were removed from the garage and extinguished, he said. Monk gave a damage estimate of about $5,000.

“At this time, (the cause) is undetermined,” he said. “There is minor damage. Mostly smoke damage to the contents.”

There were also cabinets that sustained damage, Monk indicated, but fire crews arrived quickly and didn’t let it spread.

It was a two station response, he added, and no one was injured.

Fire crews were on scene of a small fire in a garage on Brunner Ave. last Thursday. Fire officials say there was no damage to the structure itself.

Huge charity yard sale underway, one more weekend to go

By Ron Giofu

One weekend is over for the huge charity yard sale for the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter and there is one weekend left to go.

The large yard sale is at the home of Marc and Mary Beneteau at 3560 Middle Side Road and the first weekend ran last Thursday through Saturday.

It resumes this Thursday through Saturday (Aug. 1-3) from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day.

The Hope of St. Joseph Charity reports they raised $13,000 in the first weekend and hope to surpass $20,000 when the second weekend concludes.

New items arrived Monday and Tuesday and are expected to be for sale this weekend.

Those who love attending the yard sale may want to ensure they get there this weekend, if they haven’t been there already, as it’s possible it could be the final year for the yard sale in its current form.

“We’re off to a good start,” said Mary, noting last Thursday was busy.

Mary said she hears from people who know about the three shelters in the D. R. Congo that the proceeds help support.

“There are people who tell me the things they know,” she said.

The shelters are run by Father Donato Lwiyando, a former associate priest at St. John the Baptist Church. He started with a girls shelter and has expanded to a boys shelter and efforts are now underway to build a school at the site.

Father Donato also does his best to feed approximately 250 “street kids,” youth who have been orphaned or

abandoned and left to live on the street through no fault of their own.

The D. R. Congo has been impacted by war and Mary said companies, many from North America, go into the African nation and take minerals from under the Earth and leave those on top of it homeless in the process.

Setting up for the yard sale takes about six weeks, as tents are erected, goods that were stored in the barn on

the property taken back out, donations sorted and tables put around the property.

“We have some really nice stuff,” said Mary. “The donors are really good. There’s a great variety.”

Most who donate goods to the charity yard sale are from Amherstburg, she said, but there are some from around Windsor-Essex County.

“I started collecting stuff last November,” said Mary.

Father Donato has been trying to bring more girls into the shelter and get them off the streets, she added.

“There’s no room,” she said. “He squeezes them in because he knows what’s going to happen to them if he doesn’t.”

Father Donato is aware of the yard sale and wished them well, Mary added.

“We need a lot of money because the school is under construction right now,” said Mary. “We get what we get. We hope for a successful year.”

Mary indicated this will likely be the last year the yard sale is presented in its current form. While she still enjoys putting the yard sale on, personal and family circumstances are causing organizers to look at other ways to raise money.

“If we have it next year, it’ll be a smaller version,” she said. “It’s a lot of work for the volunteers.”

The volunteers “have been amazing,” she added, and they are doing new tasks they haven’t done in previous years.

“We have to figure things out. There’s a lot of things to have to figure out. We’re sad to have to downsize or maybe let it go,” she said. “We have no other option. I’d love to keep it going but circumstances won’t allow it. All good things must come to an end.”

In the meantime, Mary said she is thrilled with the crowds this year and meeting the people that stop by.

“It’s so much fun. I love it,” said Mary. “We’re hoping someone shows up and allows us to pass the torch.”

For more information on the Hope of St. Joseph charity, visit their website at www.hopeislife.ca.

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!*

Volunteers with the Hope of St. Joseph charity yard sale were busy last weekend at the home of Mary and Marc Beneteau, 3560 Middle Side Road. The yard sale raises thousands for three shelters in the D. R. Congo with the shelters housing and caring for youth in the African nation. The yard sale resumes this Thursday-Saturday (Aug. 1-3) from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day.

New KI pills being distributed to those in the “primary zone”

By Ron Giofu

For those who live in the Town of Amherstburg and had previously obtained Potassium Iodide (KI) pills, they are nearing their expiration date and new ones are being issued.

Amherstburg residents were able to pick up a new package of KI pills at Amherstburg Fire Station #1, located at 271 Sandwich St. S., last Saturday (July 27) between 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Information was posted last week at www.rivertowntimes.com.

People can still get their new KI pills if they were not able to attend last Saturday morning. Amherstburg fire chief/Community Emergency Management Co-ordinator (CEMC) Bruce Montone said the pills will still be available to residents for the next several weeks.

The KI pills are now available at Amherstburg town hall and at the Libro Centre during regular business hours, Montone stated.

“They’ll be able to get them on an ongoing basis,” said Montone.

The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU), in partnership with the Town of Amherstburg, will be distributing KI pills to Amherstburg residents living in the primary zone and surrounding areas including Boblo Island. The primary zone is 16.1 km from Enrico Fermi 2 Nuclear Generating Station.

After receiving new KI pills, WECHU says residents can safely dispose of expired KI pills in their household garbage or drop them off at their local pharmacy.

For Windsor-Essex County residents living outside of the Town of Amherstburg, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit asks that they visit their website at www.wechu.org for more information on when they can register for their kit. According to WECHU: “KI pills block the thyroid from absorbing radioactive iodine which may be released

Macassa Bay returns

during a nuclear incident. In the very unlikely event of a nuclear emergency, KI pills would help to prevent the long-term development of thyroid cancer.”

Montone called the pills “a good preventative measure” when people are advised to take them. The health units stated in a press release issued last Thursday that KI pills are only to be taken when instructed by the Medical Officer of Health. It is advised the pills be stored in a safe, dry, and accessible place along with the residents’ 72-hour emergency kit.

“While the level of risk has not changed at Fermi 2, the regulatory framework for Canadian nuclear installations has been updated,” the Health Unit states. “The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has mandated that all residents within the primary zone of a nuclear installation have KI pills available in their homes. While Fermi 2 is not regulated by the CNSC, the WECHU and the Town of Amherstburg want the residents living within the primary zone of Fermi 2 to be as prepared as all other Canadian residents.”

Montone added the KI pills are good for seven years.

“We did this seven years ago and now we’re going to replace them,” said Montone.

The plan is to eventually expand the program and encourage residents in the secondary zone to get pills should they want them. Montone said there are roughly 9,000 households in all of Amherstburg with the primary zone to have roughly 500 once all lots are developed.

“This is funded by the province, specifically the Ministry of Health,” Montone added.

The cruise ship Macassa Bay returned last Thursday offering two-hour sightseeing cruises of Amherstburg, around Boblo Island and more. The vessel departed King’s Navy Yard Park last Thursday. The next cruises are Aug. 15, Aug. 29 and Sept. 29. More information, including costs, can be found at www.windsorpremiercruises.com.

RTT STAFF PHOTOS

New potassium iodide (KI) pills are available to those living in the primary zone, which is defined as living 16.1 km from the Fermi 2 nuclear power plant.

New roles for Leardi in Ontario government

By Ron Giofu

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi has new jobs within the Ontario government.

Premier Doug Ford appointed Leardi as the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health. The announcement came in a press release issued by Leardi’s office last Friday afternoon.

Leardi has also been assigned the duties of Deputy House Leader in the Ford government.

“We’ve made incredible progress for healthcare in our region,” said Leardi. “Two new MRIs, another cath lab, hundreds of new nurses, and 1200 more healthcare spots in Kingsville. No government has delivered more in healthcare for Essex County.”

Leardi stated moving the new regional hospital forward will be his priority in healthcare for our region.

“Usually, most members sit in the Legislative Assembly only one day per week. As the Deputy Government House Leader, I will be there four days per week, every week, from start to finish,” said Leardi. “It’s a grueling

task, something like a prolonged boxing match. I’m honoured that our Premier has selected me for this.”

Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP

Trevor Jones has been appointed as the new Associate Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. Jones held the post of Deputy House Leader prior to Leardi.

“In the Legislature, MPP Leardi draws on his experience as a seasoned lawyer and municipal leader, to serve both as an exceptional local advocate and someone who is highly skilled in debate. He is an articulate, animated storyteller and an absolute pleasure to watch in debate,” Jones stated in the press release.

Leardi assumed his new duties July 19.

After his election to Queen’s Park in June 2022, Leardi served as the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Mines and as the Deputy Whip for the Progressive Conservative caucus. In March 2023, he was assigned the role of Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Federal Conservative leader Pierre

Conservative leader visits region

was in the Windsor-Essex County region last week. While in the region, Poilievre made several visits to meet with workers and community members. According to his staff, he spoke with residents “about his common sense plan to axe the carbon tax to bring home lower prices, pass laws to keep violent repeat offenders behind bars, and ban hard drugs while funding treatment and recovery to bring our loved ones home drug-free.” At a stop in Oldcastle, Poilievre met with LiUNA!625. He also visited Royal Canadian Legion Br. 594 to and met with veterans who fought for Canada and defended freedom. He also visited businesses in Windsor, including Reko Automation Group, Fortis Group, and Landscape Effects.

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi is the new Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health. Leardi is pictured with Minister of Health Sylvia Jones.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Poilievre

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION

Encounter Church reaches for the sky in first of two summer camps

By Ron Giofu

A local church held a week-long camp to allow children to have fun and bolster their faith at the same time.

Encounter Church hosted its “Stellar Space Camp” for children and youth in mid-July with games, crafts, food, field trips, prayer and more offered as part of the five-day event.

It was presented by “Encounter Kids” with youth leaders helping staff run the camp.

“It was an opportunity to minister to 30 kids,” explained Daniella Coombe, children’s pastor at Encounter Church.

The field trip was to Adventure Bay water park in Windsor. The camp was open to those who are entering SK up to Grade 6, as of September 2024.

There were eight junior leaders that were also part of the program, she

explained.

“We have quite a big volunteer base, which we are blessed to have,” said Coombe.

Members of the congregation also helped with the camp in the days and weeks leading up to it, as there were donations to help support the camp’s operation. That included snacks for the

kids during the week.

Coombe added there were some newer faces at the camp this time around with returning children as well. She stated it was her eighth year being involved with a camp at Encounter Church, the last three of which have been as a staff member.

“It’s always something different,”

said Coombe of the theme. “We always try and present something different to them.”

There was also a fundraising yard sale and vendor market in the church’s front yard last Saturday. Donations of items were accepted with them being sold by donation. There was also a barbecue. Proceeds benefit the church’s junior high and senior high ministries. Encounter Church will be presenting another day camp in August, with that running Aug. 12-16 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily. “Camp Firelight” will also be for children entering grades SK to Gr. 6 and costs $165 per camper for the week. That includes a shirt, bag, snacks, a field trip, a hot lunch on Friday and more. More information is at www.encounteraburg.ca.

Encounter Church is located at 125 Alma St. in Amherstburg.

Seasons Amherstburg teams with Autism Services for “Splash for Smiles”

By Ron Giofu

Seasons Amherstburg teamed with Autism Services Inc. Windsor-Essex last week to raise funds and to have a little fun in the process.

Seasons Amherstburg hosted its “Splash for Smiles” fundraiser last Friday, complete with a dunk tank and the band “Back 2 Back” on hand.

Jenn Lauzon, fun manager at Seasons Amherstburg, stated the event raised $1,361.50.

Proceeds benefit the 40th Bruce Awad Summer Program that is operated in the region through Autism Ontario.

“We’ve had raffle prize tickets sold all week,” said Lauzon. “We sold dunk tank tickets.”

Parrothead Popcorn Company also sold popcorn to residents and visitors with a portion of sales being donated to the fundraiser.

Jillian Fenech, executive director of

Autism Services Windsor-Essex, said a summer program was launched four decades ago largely due to the efforts

of Bruce Awad, with the program subsequently being named for him.

“He originally started the program

for his own daughter,” Fenech explained. “Forty years later, we still run a six-week program.”

Schools such as Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Windsor and Holy Name elementary in Essex host the programs with supports provided in each of the two locations. After programming in the schools themselves, the youth then enjoy recreational activities in the community afterward.

“It’s getting them out doing things most kids do during the summer,” said Fenech.

A Seasons Amherstburg resident knew of the Bruce Awad Summer Program so that is how the partnership with the retirement home came about, she added. Fenech added she dropped by in early July and gave a presentation to a group of Seasons residents on what Autism Services Windsor-Essex does and what the summer program is all about.

Staff and volunteers with Encounter Church held a yard sale and vendor market last Saturday.

Back 2 Back performs during “Splash for Smiles” while Amherstburg firefighters also got wet at the event in the dunk tank. Photo at right is submitted.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Your feelings this week may not be entirely trustworthy, Aries. You could end up worrying for nothing, and being pulled into difficult situations for the wrong reasons.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, if you are feeling a little lost these days, it could be that you need a change in perspective and location to help you get inspired. Plan a short trip to recharge.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

You cannot serve as mediator or help friends establish harmony if you are all over the emotional map, Gemini. Work your way through your emotions before offering to help.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, you may be so caught up in a specific vision for the future that you are not open to new ideas that are equally beneficial and possible. Be more receptive to what others offer.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, once you give a certain plan a little more thought you may determine it isn’t worth your time right now. Perhaps you’ve been building this idea up in your head.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you are eager to share your ideas and vision with others, but right now the audience isn’t as receptive as you would have hoped. Do not give up; people will come around.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you have a way of doing things, and right now you’re not ready to deviate from that routine. With time you may be able to branch out and try a new approach.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

People are receptive to your words and you often speak with assertiveness Scorpio. Do not let this go to your head, though. Aspire to be humble while exhibiting confidence.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, this is one of those weeks when you can get into trouble if you let your emotions be the driving force behind your actions. Make an effort to balance emotion and reason.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

This is your week to really shine, Capricorn. Let others know what you’re made of, but be sure you do not do something at another person’s expense just to get ahead.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, if you do not like the course you are on, you have the ability to change things whenever you want. Nothing is set in stone at this point, so start dreaming up new ideas.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, there are so many ways you can be creative and express yourself. This is a week of true inspiration and exploration. Nothing is off-limits if you desire it.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JULY 28 Soulja Boy, Rapper (34)

JULY 29 Dak Prescott, Athlete (31)

JULY 30 - Joey King, Actress (25)

JULY 31 - Mark Cuban, Entrepreneur (66)

AUGUST 1 - Jason Momoa (45)

AUGUST 2 - Charli XCX (32)

AUGUST 3 - Tom Brady, Retired Athlete (47)

Speaker of House of Commons visits town

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum had a special visitor last week.

Speaker of the House of Commons

Greg Fergus was in the area and toured the museum. Fergus said he came to the area at the invitation of his colleague Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk and museum president Monty Logan.

Fergus said he learned much about Black history in southern Ontario and had a lot of what he did know confirmed. He learned more about the Underground Railroad, the journey to Canada and how Black Canadians helped prosper and become part of the country’s culture.

Museum curator Mary-Katherine Whelan and assistant curator Lorene Bridgen-Lennie toured Fergus around the Nazrey AME Church, the Taylor Log Cabin and the museum’s exhibit area during his roughly one-hour visit.

“It’s great to learn more about history,” said Fergus.

Fergus recalled his days as a

parliamentary page in the House of Commons when Dr. Howard McCurdy served as a Member of Parliament. He said McCurdy was the only Black Canadian in the House of Commons at that time with that number now growing to nine MPs.

McCurdy’s wife, Dr. Brenda McCurdy, is a board member with the museum and was part of the tour.

Fergus and Kusmierczyk joined with Windsor West MP Brian Masse and later toured sites in Windsor such as the Gordie Howe International Bridge, the Sandwich Teen Action Group, the Sandwich First Baptist Church and the McDougall St. corridor.

“I shared with him the history of this area and he wanted to see it for himself,” said Kusmierczyk.

The Amherstburg Freedom Museum also hosts a pair of upcoming events. The museum will host its annual Emancipation Celebration Dinner & Dance at the Hellenic Cultural Centre at 3052 Walker Road in Windsor Aug. 2.

Continued on Page 11

Night Markets continue in LaSalle

By Fred Groves

Lots to do in the region over the weekend and one of the hot spots was the LaSalle Night Market.

Held at the municipal building on Malden Road, it is held the last Sunday of every month and the recent edition was once again another opportunity to enjoy everything from plants and jewelry to delicious treats and interesting exhibits.

Melissa DesBien and April Brooks of Windsor brought some mouth-watering treats to the market, and they refer to themselves as Cheesecake Babes.

“We launched this about four years ago during Covid for something to do. We’ve been friends for 30 years,” said Brooks.

With 80 different combinations to

choose from, DesBien admits that her favourite is Caramel Coconut Crunch while Brooks likes Smores the best. The duo have been doing a big tour so far this summer including stops in Dresden, Tilbury and Windsor.

The municipal building offers a great venue for the event, which also included live entertainment but when the weather is not ideal, organizers can move it to the nearby Event Centre on Front Road which means that the Night Market never gets cancelled.

According to LaSalle Recreation Department Supervisor Owen Stichhaller, there were 90 vendors last Sunday.

“We have almost 200 applications per market. We try and get as many as them through as we can,” he said.

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to a fair.

One of those on hand this time around was Engineering for Kids. A unique learning experience, it is offered to those 4 to 14 years old and teaches more than just the basics of science, technology, engineering and math.

According to Keith Naicker, Engineering for Kids continues to draw lots of attention and has been going on for about 20 years.

“We need the next generation to think beyond where they are now.”

He added that while technology is there to create and expand on current technology, the talent, which comes from the younger generation, needs to get involved more.

The next LaSalle Night Market is scheduled for Aug. 24.

Speaker of the House of Commons

Greg Fergus (left) and WindsorTecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk (right) get a tour of the Taylor Log Cabin by Amherstburg Freedom Museum assistant curator Dr. Lorene Bridgen-Lennie.

Kirsten (left) and Gavin Davison of Jam Works were at the LaSalle Night Market last Sunday evening.

Admirals make big trade, prepare for golf tournament

By Fred Groves

The Amherstburg Admirals have made a big trade. Announced last week, the local Provincial Junior Hockey League (Junior ‘C’) have sent veterans Stefan Jacobs and Braeden Armstrong to the West Stobbs division rival Wheatley Omstead Sharks for brothers Darby and Brady Drouillard.

“It was a trade that was in the works for a while,” said Admirals’ GM Andrew Sykes. “I have a history with Darby, we were in LaSalle. They wanted to come

to Amherstburg.”

Sykes was the assistant GM with the Junior ‘B’ LaSalle Vipers where Darby, who will be an overager, suited up for 95 regular and playoff games.

Last season with the Sharks, the 6’4”, 215-pound defenseman had 14 points including six goals from the blueline. Younger brother Brady is an aggressive forward who had 62 PIM to go along with 19 points including nine goals in his rookie junior campaign. At 6’3” and 190 pounds, he will bring some much-needed size up front.

“You always want to have a good-sized team, being

big is ideal. He (Brady) will be a reliable centre for us. He had a good rookie season,” said Sykes.

Heading to Wheatley, Jacobs and Armstrong were among the Admirals’ leading point producers the past couple of years. Jacobs was second in team scoring this past year with 24 points including 12 goals. He was the only player for the blue-and-white that played every game.

Armstrong, who is a 2005 birth year, led all blueliners the past two years. This past year he had six goals and 16 points.

So far, the Admirals have added two new goalies in Jay Proctor and Russell Vaughan along with a pair of defensemen in Freddie McCroy and Darby Drouillard.

“We have upgraded big time on defense and on the blueline. It’s a 180 (degree) from last year,” said Sykes.

Up front Logan Price and Brady Drouillard are additions along with recently signed 2005 forward Kaden Juodikis. As far as scoring, Sykes said it could probably be spread around. As far as who is returning, the GM said so far Jeremy DesBiens will not be back for what would have been his overage year.

The Admirals are set to open their 2024-25 training camp in LaSalle Aug. 23.

Sykes says the golf tournament, which is Aug. 9 at Coachwood Golf & Country Club, is shaping up to be a great event.

“We’ve got close to 100 golfers already and we have some great raffle prizes and winners of contests. It’s shaping up to be a good day. We want to have as many as our players there as possible.”

Anyone wanting to register for the tournament, can contact Andrew Sykes at 519-991-6952.

SLAPSHOTS: Last year the Admirals finished with a 10-32-0 record before bowing to Blenheim in the first round of the playoffs. Amherstburg has an exhibition game schedule in Essex Sept. 3.

Golfers continue to hit the links on Unico Primo Junior Golf Tour

Special to the RTT

The Unico Primo Junior Golf Tour continued with its busy July schedule last Thursday with an event at Sutton Creek Golf Club.

Leaders and challengers continued to set a torrid pace in all divisions.

In the junior girls division, Olivia Tartaro of Essex Golf Club recorded her second tour victory with a 2-over par 74.

The win launches her into a three-way battle for the overall tour lead. Olivia is now just 3.5 points behind leader Alyssa Cowling and 2.5 points behind second place Ella Harris. At Sutton Creek, Olivia was followed closely by Hannah Butzer (Maple City) with a 75 and frontrunner Alyssa Cowling (Ambassador) who carded a 76.

In the Junior Boys division, Christian Morneau of Kingsville Golf Club

continued his blistering pace with another win carding a 4-under 68. The win vaults him into second place just four points back of tour lead Ben Buchner.

Essex Golf Club winner Andrew Baker also of Kingsville was second, carding a 70 which included a slow start on the outward nine carding a 40 followed by a 6-under 30 on the inward nine.

Vanessa Ardovini (University of Windsor) took the Collegiate Women’s

posting an 82.

Tour leader Kevin Teichroeb expanded his Collegiate Men’s overall lead carding a 2-under 70 besting Clin Karpala and Ryalan Marontate by six strokes.

The tour takes a bit of a break in the schedule before the next event at Beach Grove Aug. 12, followed closely by the tour finale at Kingsville Aug. 15.

For information about the tour and events, visit www.jamiesonjuniortour.ca.

Freedom Museum also hosting a pair of upcoming events, one of them this Friday

Continued from Page 10

This event commemorates the 190th anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery in Canada.

The theme is “Jazz Age Jubilee” with guests encouraged to don their finest cocktail or semi-formal attire.

That event includes dinner and dancing with live music from “Trading Places,” a band featuring Jim Walls, Larry Johnson, Chris Nease, Phil Hill and Jamie Dech. There will also be a silent auction and a 50/50 draw.

The Emancipation Celebration will also feature the presentation of the Legacy Hero Award, this year going to E.

Andrea Moore. Event sponsors include the TD Bank Group, TMHC Inc., The Wright Museum, and LiUNA!625.

Tickets are $75 each, available online at amherstburgfreedom.org/emancipation. For more information, or to buy tickets over the phone, please call the museum at 519-736-5433.

The Walter Perry Emancipation Golf Classic is coming Aug. 10, with that occurring this year at Coachwood Golf & Country Club in McGregor. There is a shotgun start of 8 a.m. The entry fee is $150 and people can register at www. amherstburgfreedom.org/golf-classic or by calling 519-736-5433.

Speaker of the House of Commons Greg Fergus visited the Amherstburg Freedom Museum last Thursday. From left: assistant curator Dr. Lorene Bridgen-Lennis, museum president Monty Logan, Windsor-Tecumseh Irek Kusmierczyk, Fergus, curator Mary-Katherine Whelan, museum board members Brenda McCurdy and Barb Porter.

The Amherstburg Admirals made a big trade last week, sending defenseman Braeden Armstrong (left) and forward Stefan Jacobs (right) to the Wheatley Sharks in exchange for defenseman Darby Drouillard and his brother centre Brady Drouillard.

Community Calendar

THURSDAY, AUG. 1-SATURDAY, AUG. 3

HOPE OF ST. JOSEPH YARD SALE; The huge charity yard sale continues Aug. 1, 2, 3 at the home of Mary and Marc Beneteau at 3560 Middle Side Road (County Road 10). Runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. Items will be for sale in the driveway, barn, three tents and front yard with all proceeds going to the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. and the three shelters they support.

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, AUGUST 12-FRIDAY, AUGUST 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 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 226-3478035 or e-mail jlalibertern@gmail.com.

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., offering 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 doing 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 MondayFriday 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 519-736-5706.

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., 519-736-5471. 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!

CLASSIFIEDS

CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com

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.

APARTMENT FOR RENT

Two-bedroom apartment, available Sept. 1, Caldwell Towers North. Call 519736-7295. Best view from apartment in town.

“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.

HOUSE CLEANING EXPERIENCED HOUSE CLEANER with excellent references. Bonded, police clearance. Preference is seniors. 519-562-1179.

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

EVENT SPACE FOR RENT

HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-736-6096 or Don @ 519-734-8154

HUGE YARD SALE

HUGE CHARITY YARD

SALE, 3560 Middle Side Road (County Road 10).

Aug. 1, 2 & 3 from 9 a.m.4 p.m. each day.

Monday, August 5th Civic Holiday

Joseph Alfred BeneteauEdmund

June 3, 1931 - March 7, 2024

Edmund passed away peacefully in Stouffville Ontario on March 7th, 2024. Born in River Canard he was the youngest of 8 children born to Edmund and Marie Louise Beneteau-Pouget. He is survived by his loving wife Joan Lovell, his children Karen Bertrand (Fred), Gary (Louise Journeaux), Edmond, Tom(Dawn), Louise (Rain Loftus), Chris (Joanne Richardson). He is also survived by 10 Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren, his stepchildren Charlotte Stamp(Chris) and Karren Owen and his sister Marceline Bratt Major. Predeceased by his parents Edmund (1953) and Marie Louise (1989) and his step father Raymond Pouget(1974), his siblings, Pearl Deneau (2014), Hector(1985), Martha (infant), Isabelle Spieles (2007), Rita Clark(2022) and Antoinette Maitre (2012). Edmund attended St Rose High School in Amherstburg and Assumption University in Windsor. He went on to a successful career in the finance industry. He had a love of music and dancing, enjoyed all sports and in retirement he enjoyed skating, playing squash, golf, baseball and umpiring. He earned quite a reputation for being the loudest umpire!

At his request cremation has taken place. A graveside service and internment to honour our Dad will take place at 12:15pm on Monday, August 12th at St John the Baptist Cemetery on Meloche Rd. Amherstburg.

Passed away peacefully on July 26, 2024 at the age of 68. Beloved forever friend to Constance PolandDixon. Cherished stepfather to Dennis Lalonde and Angela Lalonde. Loving grandfather to Isabella. Reunited with his parents Ivan and Irene Deslippe as well as his brother Ralph. Survived by his sister-inlaw Nancy Deslippe. Uncle to Brad, Brian and Eric. Brother to Marilyn, Delores and Carolyn. Will as well be missed by his many extended family and friends.

Michael was known to be hugging his precious teddy bear around Franklin Gardens.

Special thanks to the staff at Franklin Gardens Long Term Care for their exceptional care shown towards Michael, as well as the First Lutheran Church (Kingsville) for their support.

Memorial Visitation to take place at James H. Sutton (401 Sandwich St. S, Amherstburg) on Wednesday August 14, 2024 from 10am until time of service at 11am in the chapel. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Lighthouse Church Building Fund. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at jhsuttonfuneral.com.

Gone Car Crazy show attracts roughly 730 classic vehicles to Amherstburg

Continued from Page 1

Noting he loves walking the streets, getting ice cream and looking at all the vehicles, Heinrich added he believes the show is very well organized.

“Thanks go to them for the show,” said Heinrich, adding his gratitude to Motor City Solutions in Taylor, Michigan for their work on the car.

Bill and Janis Ball of Amherstburg and their 1934 Plymouth were on hand for the show, something they do every year.

“It’s a great show. It’s nice to visit with people we haven’t seen in quite some time,” said Janis. “It’s a beautiful day in a beautiful town.”

Bill said they average about four car shows per year and enjoy the car crazy show the most.

“This is it,” he said. “You talk to anyone from anywhere and they’ll tell you Amherstburg has the best show.”

Ron Stephen brought his 1955 Ford Thunderbird to the show while Lee Curti brought his 1966 Corvette. Both men are from Windsor.

“I love it,” Curti said of Sunday’s car

show. “Amherstburg has it right. I come here almost every week on my bike but this is my first time in the car show. I like to share the car with everyone.”

Curti said he was encouraged by Stephen to enter his car in the car show. Both praised the amount of cars, crowds, vendors and entertainment.

“This is the best show around,” said Stephen, who was in his third car show.

Ed Uebele of Essex said it was his third time showing his 1953 Chevrolet Sports Coup in the Car Crazy show.

“There’s a lot of great people, a lot of interest in the car,” said Uebele. “There is good food and good music. It’s been great.”

Uebele believes it’s one of the area’s best car shows.

“I come for the people,” he said. “There’s more people than any of the other shows.”

Uebele said he will definitely be back.

“It’s a great show.”

More photos are available on the RTT’s social media sites. A full list of winners is at www.rivertowntimes.com.

LUNCH & LEARN

lightlunch providedto attendees!

Brodie Baker, Manager, Amherstburg & LaSalle Cannabis Co. will discuss Anecdotal recounts of how cannabis products have been used within the community to help with pain, nausea etc. He will discuss • Edibles, creams, oils, pills, roll on & more

• The difference between THC and CBD • Legalization • Side effects Q & A to follow. Limited Seats Available. Must be registered to attend. Call

to reserve your spot THURSDAY, AUGUST 15TH 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Facts related to Tinnitus:

• 1 in 22 people worldwide suffer from tinnitus

• 78% are over the age of 40

• 66% are male

• 72% report poor sleep due to tinnitus

• 73% report that tinnitus reduces their quality of life

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

Classic vehicles are pictured along Richmond St. Sunday afternoon.

A look under the hood.

Checking out a car in Toddy Jones Park.

Looking southward from the Gordon House steps. Toddy Jones Park was packed with classic cars.

Vehicles line up on Murray St. during the Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

NOTICE OF PASSING OF A BY-LAW TO DESIGNATE A HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT STUDY AREA

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg passed By-law 2024-050 on the 8th day of July, 2024 under Section 40.1 of the Ontario Heritage Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.O.18, as amended.

AND TAKE NOTICE that any person who objects to this by-law may appeal to the Ontario Land Tribunal by giving the clerk of the municipality, within 30 days after the date of publication of this notice in the newspaper, a notice of appeal setting out the objection to the by-law and the reasons in support of the objection, accompanied by the fee charged by the Ontario Land Tribunal in the form of a cheque or money order payable to the Minister of Finance.

AN EXPLANATION OF THE PURPOSE AND EFFECT of the By-law and key map showing the location of the lands to which the By-law applies follows below. The complete By-law is available for inspection during regular office hours at Town Hall, and on the project website at www.talktheburg.ca/heritage

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 25th day of July, 2024

EXPLANATORY NOTE

THE SUBJECT LANDS affected by the By-law are identified on the key map. THE PURPOSE OF THE BY-LAW is to protect existing areas that have cultural heritage value until such time as an HCD Plan is adopted by Town Council, or the lapsing of one year from

NOTICE OF PASSING A HERITAGE CONSERVATION

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the By-law 2024-050 on the 8th day of July, Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.O.18, as amended.

TO DESIGNATE A HERITAGE CONSERVATION DISTRICT STUDY AREA

AND TAKE NOTICE that any person who Land Tribunal by giving the clerk of the publication of this notice in the newspaper the by-law and the reasons in support by the Ontario Land Tribunal in the form Minister of Finance.

AN EXPLANATION OF THE PURPOSE showing the location of the lands to which By-law is available for inspection during project website at www.talktheburg.ca/heritage

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this

EXPLANATORY NOTE

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 25th day of July, 2024

EXPLANATORY NOTE

THE SUBJECT LANDS affected by the

THE SUBJECT LANDS affected by the By-law are identified on the key map.

THE PURPOSE OF THE BY-LAW is to value until such time as an HCD Plan is year from the date of the adoption of the

THE PURPOSE OF THE BY-LAW is to protect existing areas that have cultural heritage value until such time as an HCD Plan is adopted by Town Council, or the lapsing of one year from the date of the adoption of the by-law.

THE EFFECT OF THE BY-LAW prohibits the erection, demolition, or removal of buildings or structures located within the HCD Study Area. There are exemptions listed in the By-law.

KEY MAP

THE EFFECT OF THE BY-LAW prohibits buildings or structures located within the in the By-law.