River Town Times - May 1, 2024

CPAP SUPPLIES & MACHINES

“Jane’s Walks” wind their way through Amherstburg

By Fred Groves

On Christmas Day, 1849, Anthony Binga Sr. would help build the First Baptist Church in Amherstburg.

“He was known as the walking preacher because he would walk between Detroit and Toronto raising funds to build the church,” explained Dr. Lorene Bridgen-Lennie, assistant curator at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

Along with curator Mary-Katherine Whelan, they gave a detailed historic account of how freedom seekers settled in and made an impact on the town.

It was part of the annual Jane’s Walk Tour on Sunday which presents a non-traditional look at the town’s history by moving from one location to the next and while focusing on a specific area and subject, gave a lot more detail of surrounding neighbourhoods.

According to Tammy Dewhirst, chair of the local chapter of the Architectural Conservatory of Ontario, which helped host the event, Jane’s Walks are held in over 300 different locations.

They are named in honour of Jane Jacobs (19162006) who was an urbanist and activist whose

writings championed a community-based approach to city buildings.

Sunday’s event was the third time it was held in Amherstburg and though the rain in the morning meant altering the route, there were a total of five stops including Historic Buildings by Meg Reiner from the Marsh Historical Collecction; Look Again! Outside Amherstburg by Art Windsor-Essex; Relying on the River by the Reiner and Kara Folkeringa of the Marsh Historical Collection; Old Burial Grounds presented by Robert Honor; and the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, led by Whelan and Bridgen-Lennie.

“It’s getting out and learning about the community,” said Dewhirst.

Dewhirst added that all the tours held in Essex County over the weekend, including walks in Leamington, Kingsville and Essex were well attended.

Sandra Marwood Pattman and Mary Konrad came from Windsor and joined the group at the Christ Church on Ramsay Street for the Burial Grounds session which was led by local historian Robert Honor.

“We had read about it and we wanted to come out to Amherstburg, which is nice,” said Marwood Pattman.

Konrad said they got the information about Jane’s Walk from Sarah Morris, who was the lead guide last Sunday.

“Sarah brought the information to our language class. The idea of a historical cemetery is interesting. It drew our attention.”

What they learned from Honor about the burial grounds is that while there are numerous dated tombstones propped up against a stone wall at the Christ Church, the entire neighbourhood was once the town’s original cemetery.

Standing at the corner of Bathurst St. and Simcoe St., Honor said by 1820 there were about 500 burials and it is doubtful they were moved when houses were built.

“There are no records to say they were interned anywhere else. There still could be burials under these houses,” Honor told the group assembled.

Honor passed around a copy of William Caldwell’s death notice. Caldwell died in 1822 and is considered one of the founders of Amherstburg.

Jane’s Walk continues this weekend at several places in Windsor and Tecumseh. For more information, go to www.windsorjaneswalk.ca.

Amherstburg Freedom Museum curator Mary-Katherine Whelan talks to a group on King St. during Jane’s Walk (left).

Local historian Robert Honor shows the tombstones at Christ Church in Amherstburg during another of the five Jane’s Walk tours that were held Sunday (right).

RTT PHOTOS BY FRED GROVES

District Fire Chief awarded on occasion of latest certification

By Ron Giofu

One of the passions in Jason Durocher is firefighting and that has led to him achieving a level of certification that not a lot achieve.

Durocher, a district chief with the Amherstburg Fire Department, recently received his Fire Officer IV Certification and that was recognized at the April 22 town council meeting. Training and upgrading skills has been something Durocher has been doing since joining the Amherstburg Fire Department.

“I’ve been 30 years with the Amherstburg Fire Department,” said Durocher. “My journey has taken this long to get to this level. It has taken a lot of time.”

Durocher joined as a volunteer firefighter and has taken a number of courses along the way, from Firefighter 1 certification training all the way up to his Fire Officer Level IV certification.

“Firefighting has always been a part of me,” he said.

While noting he hasn’t taken training courses every year, Durocher said he has worked hard at it. He noted there are prerequisites to get from one level to the next, such as needing Fire Officer III certification before going up to Fire Officer IV, the latter being the highest a firefighter can go.

Durocher’s most recent certification involves training on such topics including the managing of a fire service, emergency management and community safety plans. There were online components to achieving that certification as well as 40 hours of in-class lessons in Richmond Hill, Ontario.

“From there, we had group presentations at the end we had to present to the class,” he said.

The in-class portion of the Fire Officer Level IV training was last fall and following that was an assignment where he had to prepare a document

that was over 100 pages touching on such items as community safety and emergency preparedness.

“I started this past class just about one year ago,” he said of the Level IV certification. “It was a personal goal I set out to get the highest level of training I possibly could.”

The recognition at town council was something he said was initiated by Fire Chief Bruce Montone. A number of his colleagues from the Amherstburg Fire Department were also on hand at the meeting to show their support.

“I was very humbled by that,” said Durocher. “It was unexpected to see my colleagues there.”

Durocher said it is his firm belief that people never stop learning and if more training opportunities were to come his way in the future, he would be open to them. He thanked the fire department, the chief and town council for its support, but he was especially grateful

Art Crawl children's art contest launched

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Art Crawl that is planned for July 20-21 will also have a children’s art contest.

The Amherstburg Art Society, the group that is organizing the second annual Art Crawl, is having one of the events during that weekend be the “My Hometown” children’s art contest. Children and their parents who wish to be part of it can start thinking now as submission forms and photos of original pieces of children’s art must be sent in by May 24.

Trudy Dempsey, a committee member, said there will be three age groups and those are kids ages 6-10, 11-13 and 14-18. Of the photos submitted, three youths will be selected from each category and they will be invited to express, on a 2’x2’ panel, what the theme “My Hometown” means to them.

“Is it a favourite activity? Taking their dog for a walk in their park? A special event?” said Dempsey. “Children have such vivid imaginations and are less inhibited when it comes to their art. No doubt the ‘My Hometown’ theme will spark those imaginations. We cannot

wait to see the outcome.”

Entries are not just for Amherstburg residents, as Dempsey said the committee is seeking interested youth from around the region. The “My Hometown” theme will reflect what their hometowns mean to them, regardless of where that hometown is.

“We want this to be a big festival,” said Dempsey. “We’re reaching out to all of the towns in the region. We’re open to anyone who wishes to enter their children in the art contest.”

All nine panels will be hung like a mural in Art Alley, next to the Panetteria on Ramsay St., for a year, she noted.

The paintings will be covered with a protective coating to keep them safe from the elements.

The unveiling will be held July 29 at 12:30 p.m. Sawyer Dejonge from Art Crawl sponsor Dejonge Homes and committee members Dempsey and Dylan White will be part of the unveiling. For details, visit www.artamherstburg. ca and click on the “Contests” tab. Paper submission forms can be obtained from the River Bookshop at 67 Richmond St. or the Gibson Gallery at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg.

for the support of his wife Jennifer and daughter Maddie. Obtaining his goals took a lot of time to accomplish but his family was always fully supportive.

Montone appeared before town council, calling Durocher’s certification “a significant recognition” they wanted to acknowledge.

“We want to acknowledge and recognize that the achievements are both significant for the individual but also significant in terms of our commitment as a corporation and as a fire service to support our staff,” said Montone.

Montone said Durocher’s 30 years of service to the Amherstburg Fire Department was also worthy of applause. The chief said Durocher began his service with the department Jan. 13, 1994, became a full-time firefighter July 8, 2013 and was promoted to a full-time captain Sept. 18, 2016. He was promoted to district chief in 2020.

“Jason’s most recent accomplishment

is that he now joins actually very, very few chief officers in the entire Province of Ontario as a certified NFPA Fire Officer Level IV,” said Montone. “That is the highest level that can be achieved at this present time.”

Level IV certification is an “executive supervisor” that provides for both supervisory and front-line managerial functions.

“Jason has met all the job performance and certification requirements of Fire Officer IV as defined in the NFPA (National Firefighter Protection Association) Standard 1021, which is the Fire Officer Professional Qualifications,” said Montone.

Montone said what is significant is that Durocher completed all of the job performance requirements on his own initiative. That includes establishing procedures for recruitment, order assigning, recommending for promotion, encouraging professional development for his team.

“He also had to demonstrate his ability to develop programs that improve and expand our service and to build partnerships, especially amongst the public,” said Montone. “Jason demonstrated his ability to prepare a divisional budget, develop a budget management system, solicit bids, plan for resource allocation and work with our resource management system in order to do that.”

The fire chief added Durocher evaluated inspection programs and developed public safety activities. Durocher had to demonstrate his ability to manage multi-agency planning deployment and operations, he added.

“Jason does that on a regular basis,” said Montone.

Durocher has developed “extremely knowledgeable and expertise” in incident command and has also demonstrated development, management and evaluation skills for firefighter safety plans.

www.marshcollection.org

May 4th is International Firefighters Day. Here is a photo of the Malden Fire Department, 1982. Front row (left to right): Bruce Langlois, Milton Prior, John Rose, Ron Amlin, Graham Rose, Kenneth Tytgat, Jerome Deslippe, Harold McGee. Middle row: Gary Deslippe, Gerald Bezaire, Wayne Crawford, Tom Dufour, Bob Crawford, Richard Martin. Back row: Ray Brown, Doug Gibb, Bud Bondy, Gary Laramie, Larry Crawford, Everette Dingle.

District Chief Jason Durocher (centre) was honoured at town council for achieving Fire Officer IV Certification. From left: Mayor Michael Prue, CAO Valerie Critchley, Durocher, daughter Maddie Durocher, and wife Jennifer Durocher.

Health and wellness fair held at Stella Maris School

By Ron Giofu

Students and staff at Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School got a chance to feel healthier thanks to a week’s worth of events, capped by a health and wellness fair.

The Girard St. school presented the health and wellness fair recently with classes filtering through the school’s gymnasium to visit with the various groups and individuals in attendance.

Among those at the health and wellness fair were The House Youth Centre, community relations officer Const. Nick Dupuis of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, the Essex County Library, the Town of Amherstburg’s recreation department, the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA), the Ontario Student

Nutrition Program (OSNP), and Lisa Mullins, the youth minister for the Amherstburg-Harrow Family of Parishes.

Cailin Bosnyak, vice principal at Stella Maris, said they actually had a week’s

worth of activities with mental wellness being one of things emphasized.

“Our school has decided to try and achieve our OPHEA certification,” said Bosnyak.

OPHEA is the Ontario Physical and Health Education Association.

Bosnyak said they tried to introduce a holistic approach to health and wellness and to promote the mental wellness aspect of it.

Students noted they enjoyed the fair and found it valuable.

Lilly Bodimer said she learned a lot at the health and wellness fair, noting she got some information at The House Youth Centre table. She added she got a lot of information about health and wellness at the event and during the week.

Jenna Clarke added she learned about eating healthier and believing in herself. While she learned about boosting her own self-esteem, Clarke stated it should have helped others in the school.

“This really helps younger kids too,” said Clarke.

Town council approves Internet purchase exchange location

By Ron Giofu

Amherstburg town council has approved an expenditure not to exceed $4,500 and pre-approved $1,000 in the 2025 operating budget in relation to the purchase and equipment for an Internet Purchase Exchange Location.

“Online buy and sell sites like Kijiji and Facebook Marketplace have become more prevalent in the past few years. Often the parties involved have not previously met and have to arrange a location to complete transactions. The one-on-one nature of these transactions can open the risk of becoming a victim

of robbery, assault, or fraud. Due to these and other risks, people seek out more public locations to meet,” manager of information technology Jordan Long said in a report to town council.

The report stated that area municipalities such as LaSalle, Essex and Tecumseh offer “Internet Purchase Exchange” areas to allow for a more public and visible space to meet and conduct transactions.

“Installing a camera in the municipal parking lot south of the police detachment (532 Sandwich St. South) and designating 2 parking spots as an ‘Internet Purchase Exchange’ zones would give the residents of Amherstburg a location

to complete local online transactions,” Long stated in the report. “Its’ camera and location next to the police detachment would help in providing a space that encourages a safe interaction between a buyer and seller and deter fraud or theft. Windsor Police officers will not be present during transactions, but will attend if an offense is being reported. Windsor Police will have direct access to the video recording to review complaints.”

The Windsor Police Service –Amherstburg Detachment reported 32 “fraud by computer” investigations in 2023, the report stated. The $4,500

would not only include the purchase of the camera, but also its installation and signage. It will be funded by the tax stabilization reserve.

“Mid-last year, I was approached by a resident about having the town perhaps look at something like this. I definitely want to thank staff for bringing this project before us,” said Councillor Linden Crain.

Crain noted the crime statistics in the report, and believed it was a low cost project that could lead to fewer scams and theft in the town. Councillor Diane Pouget agreed, stating “it’s a minimal amount to keep our residents safe.”

Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School students get information from The House Youth Centre program co-ordinator Morghan Shearon during the school’s health and wellness fair.

Essex County council updated on Pathway to Potential program

By Fred Groves

Since 2008, Windsor-Essex has been engaged in a strategic plan to help reduce poverty in the region.

Through its Pathway to Potential program, it seems to be having an impact as there is a statistical reduction in those facing difficult economic times.

An updated Pathway to Potential report was presented to Essex County council.

“We look forward to working together to help the vulnerable in our community,” said Warden Hilda MacDonald.

According to the 2021 Canada Census,

the poverty rate in the Windsor-Essex region was 7.5 percent which is down considerably from 15.5 percent in 2016.

Essex County is putting $670,000 towards the program this year in an attempt to reduce it even further. There are three major goals of the plan –strengthening priority neighbourhoods, advancing affordable regional programs and measuring regional impact.

“Since the start of the program, we have been able to consult significantly with folks across the region,” said consultant Chris Loretto.

Loretto presented a 45-page updated

report which has nine social investment priorities including creating inclusive opportunities for children in low-income families through recreation and culture and investing in neighbourhoods impacted by poverty and other complex community challenges.

“It’s very focused, streamlined and hopefully impactful strategy,” he said.

Probably the most interesting part of the report was the consultants breaking down each of the seven county municipalities and indicating how many people are facing poverty.

Leamington has the highest poverty

rate at 6.4 percent; Amherstburg 3.3 per cent; Essex 3.6 per cent; Kingsville, 3.6 per cent; Lakeshore, 2.8 per cent; LaSalle, 2.6 per cent; and Tecumseh was the lowest of the seven communities at 2.4 per cent.

Most of the towns saw those older adults, aged 55 to 64 are more likely to be experiencing poverty.

In the City of Windsor, the report notes that 10.8 percent are living in poverty and of that, the highest group is young adults ages 18 to 24 at 17.4 percent.

“We consulted a lot of stakeholders who are addressing poverty reduction,” said Loretto.

Garden Tour makes its return to Amherstburg weekend of June 8-9

Special to the RTT

The Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society (AFMHS) is bringing back its popular Garden Tour.

The AFMHS says it looks forward to inviting the public to visit private gardens in town.

“Each garden is unique but what they all share in common is the creativity, vision, hard work, and very green thumbs of our local gardeners!”

The event is June 8-9 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. from each day. It starts at the Toddy Jones Park pavilion (50 North St.) where people can buy their tour access passes for $15 (cash only). Addresses of the gardens will be in the passes. If a person purchased a ticket in advance, they can present it the day of the tour at the pavilion.

This is a rain or shine event! All proceeds from the Garden Tour go back into the community to support AFMHS programs. People must provide their own

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

“A lot of dreaming” going on in

There was a lot of dreaming going on in the April 22 town council meeting since both the AMA Sportsmen and council wanted to fulfil their dream of a public boat ramp.

Let’s look at some facts. The AMA president, the town administration etc. all stated this would be a money losing proposition. This boat ramp would compete with other ramps in town. Soil conditions are not the best and a substantial amount of stone would be needed for

transportation to get to the gardens and bring their tour access pass. People can visit gardens in any order.

Whether people end their tour on Saturday or Sunday, they are invited to fill out the ballot in their tour access pass and bring it to the clock at the intersection of Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. for a chance to win prizes! Be sure to enjoy the gardens in the Navy Yard Park as well.

For more information, visit www.aburghortsociety.ca.

town with regards to public boat ramp

the parking lot and road. Mr. Prue and Gibb believed the cost would be upwards of $2.5 million.

Then we had some councillors make the uneducated statement that the Strategic Plan calls for waterfront access. So, they were taught by the administration that this does not mean a boat ramp but another means of access. If a person can afford a truck, a fishing/ hunting boat and all the equipment they need then they can afford to pay a fee for the ramp usage

at Ranta or other ramps. Why should the taxpayer face a property tax increase for the ramp and then support it for ever since it is a money losing venture?

The dreaming council approval turns out to be another nightmare for the taxpayer just like Duffy’s and Belle Vue. To top it all off we were told in the last budget that taxes had to go up because the town reserves are too low.

So what do they do? They want to spend another $2.5 million we don’t have.

I urge all the residents to call or write to the mayor and council to stop these irresponsible actions and get to business and save some money. I hear we must respect the elected official. Respect must be earned, and the mayor and council’s behavior are far away from earning respect. Enough is enough of this nonsense.

Resident gives background on public marina issue in Amherstburg

I really have to again ask you who actually runs the town? You, or it’s hired employees? If it is employees, why are we paying council? The truth is, it is the other way around.

I have spoken many times to all of council at one time or another about the boat ramp issue during when they were running for your positions and was told that it was in the works. Now we and you were told that this can’t be done. The

boating community is only asking you to replace what was lost. I am 77-years-old and I can tell you how badly the town let down the boating industry. Walter Ranta donated the marina property to Anderdon township free if they would build a public marina. Anderdon got a grant of approximately $900,000 from the Ontario lottery and the Liberal government to build it and they did.

Unfortunately, a little later came the

PC government and the idea of amalgamation and away went Anderdon and Malden. In this process the marina was allowed to go into disrepair and Amherstburg council decided to sell it not wanting to maintain it but along with that went the great facility that it was and the local people being able use it at a reasonable cost. Also lost were the many professional fishing tournaments that came to town every year and also went a lot of business in the process. I spent a lot of time and money getting educated in naval architecture and sailmaking only to be let down by the town I lived in. I have lived here for 51 years and would like to see this area have the same access

and opportunity that every town in this county has except Amherstburg public access for boaters at a reasonable cost. It would not compete against anyone. Just allow more people to enjoy what they are paying for with their tax money.

A good solution would be to buy the original marina back from the current owner he would probably be glad to sell it to you since the channels leading to it are not deep enough for larger boats or sailboats with a deep keel.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please.

• We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We also reserve the right to edit for any concerns relating to possible libel or slander issues.

• We reserve the right to not publish letters that we view inflammatory, inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific people, groups, religions, governments or ethnic organizations. Those rants are more suited to

social media.

• We will gladly print letters commending specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.

• Please sign your letters and provide a phone number for verification or questions if we need to reach out to you.

• Anonymous letters are not printed as we cannot verify their origin.

—Ron Drouillard Amherstburg

—Holger Kretschmann Amherstburg

New festival receives over $4,800 in one-time relief in fees

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Mind, Body & Soul Festival is planned for the Libro Centre July 19-20 and town council has agreed to a one-time waiving of fees to help organizers present it.

Linda DiPasquale of the Amherstburg Pickleball Association, flanked by Wren Dosant of the Windsor Valiants basketball organization and Nick Cacciato from the Amherstburg Soccer Club, outlined several fees that would have to be paid to use indoor and outdoor facilities at the Libro Centre. The total amount of fees she asked to be waived – a request that was granted – was $4,885.82.

DiPasquale credited Cacciato with coming up with the idea, which is to bring together several sports and recreation organizations into two days of activities. The idea is to “foster health and well-being for our residents and visitors.”

The festival’s objective is to provide opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to learn about and/or engage in activities that promote physical fitness, positive mental well-being and “nourishment of the soul.”

“The premise is to provide educational resources and workshops on topics such as nutrition, injury prevention and mental wellness so attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights and tools to have healthier lifestyles,” said DiPasquale. “Further to that, there will be opportunities for participants to become active and engaged in tournaments and various activities.”

DiPasquale said the event is “holistic” and “multifaceted,” with numerous organizations from WindsorEssex County taking part. The goal is to promote “overall well-being.” The festival could also “showcase Amherstburg as a hub for healthy living.”

Organizers hope to make it an annual event, she said.

“We are definitely in the grassroots stages of our planning and will look to keep things fairly simple for our first year,” she said.

The group is not-for-profit and not looking to make financial gain, she said, with any proceeds made to be donated to the Miracle League of Amherstburg.

Activities will include a bike road race, bike safety training, pickleball tournaments and training, an outdoor film screening, a soccer tournament, a free throw competition, scrabble tournament, ball hockey tournament, Miracle League baseball, live music, a frisbee tournament, a yoga demonstration, a chess tournament and a soccer skills competition.

Organizers are promoting such groups as the Amherstburg Soccer Club, Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC), the Amherstburg Admirals, Windsor Valiants, Amherstburg Pickleball Association, Rivertown Dance Academy, Painting Perfection, Balance Yoga, Garage Gym, Ultimate Frisbee, Miracle League of Amherstburg, Chess Challenge Windsor and the Warrior Scholar Martial Arts Academy as being willing to contribute.

“In addition to these, we are planning to have information and educational resource booths for attendees to visit,” said DiPasquale.

DiPasquale said there are “undoubtedly” many benefits to the community.

“This would be such a huge boost to our local economy,” she believed.

Environmental preservation, a positive public image, community building, improved mental and physical health, a long-term health impact and a sense of pride in the community were also cited by DiPasquale as benefits to the town.

Not waiving fees could have caused high admission charges, which organizers believe could have seen people not wish to attend.

“I think it’s a great event,” said Councillor Linden Crain. “You are bringing together a number of different organizations in the community.”

Crain said the event is promoting health and wellness and will bring more people to the Libro Centre.

CAO Valerie Critchley said “it’s a great initiative” but cautioned there are other non-profit groups that use town facilities for charitable purposes but also pay user fees. One example was the Hockey for Hospice tournament where the town recoups fees.

“I think if council is looking at waiving this fee it would be probably a good practice for (council) to have a report from (administration) on what that could mean for other events and what the total lost revenue to the town could be for events that we already do charge for that are non-profit,” said Critchley.

Councillor Diane Pouget supported the organizers’ request to waive the fees and asked if waiting for a report could delay their plans. DiPasquale said they acknowledged their request could be precedent setting but because it is the festival’s inaugural year, there hasn’t been time to collect donations or sponsorships.

DiPasquale added they would do their best to proceed without a waiving of fees, something they ultimately didn’t have to worry about. Cacciato said organizers expect the festival to grow in subsequent years and would be willing to pay fees next year. Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon said her department had yet to receive a formal request detailing the event’s activities and agreed with Critchley that administration should provide a report. Baillargeon said it’s a great initiative but there are additional things to consider, stating a report would have taken three to four weeks to prepare.

Councillor Peter Courtney said the festival is a great idea, but the town has to do its due diligence on the matter.

“I think that after hearing from our staff, I think it’s best to wait for a report,” said Courtney. “I’ve heard some concerns as precedent setting is precedent setting.”

DiPasquale said the $4,885.82 is “a substantial event” as they want to use multiple amenities at the Libro Centre.

Councillor Don McArthur supported waiving the fees for the festival.

“I don’t think we need an administrative report to come back and tell us it’s precedent setting because it’s not precedent setting,” said McArthur. “Someone has come here seeking an exemption for a specific reason and that specific reason is they want to take all the money they make and donate it to the Miracle League. I don’t think there’s a report in the world that can come back and tell me that’s a bad outcome of this.”

Organizers are taking time and risks to put on the festival, which promotes items that are in the town’s Strategic Plan, he stated. McArthur said the reason organizers don’t want to pay fees because the nearly $5,000 can do a lot of good for the Miracle League. He wanted council to show they believe in them and wanted organizers to leave satisfied.

“I overwhelmingly support everything that Councillor McArthur has said,” said Pouget. Pouget added she supports the request because the report before town council is clear and says it was recommended for approval “and all of a sudden we’re going to say no?”

“I don’t believe it is precedent setting. I think it’s a one-time only request,” said Pouget. “(Organizers) did say they were prepared to pay for it next year when they are more organized and have more time. I’m going to support this motion.”

Crain added he was involved in organizing the 100th anniversary of General Amherst High School prior to his election to council. He recalled the fees were waived for that.

“I do think we need a process in place, for sure,” said Crain. “We’re waiving fees for some events and some events we’re not. We’re a bit wishy-washy in what we’re permitting and what we’re waiving.” Crain added he was “comfortable” in waiving the fees and town council can take another look if additional costs come back.

“This is an event where user groups are using the space they’re already paying for,” said Crain. “If they are paying for this again, it’s almost like they’re double-paying.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said “this is a valuable project” but said he would rather have a report first.

“We make donations during budget. We waive fees. It has to stop somewhere,” he said. “There has to be some sort of logic to this.”

Gibb said he loved the user groups involved but there has to be “some type of rhyme or reason” for waiving fees, thus his desire to see a report first.

“I can’t just do this because it’s really just another charitable donation,” said Gibb.

Stella Maris donates to Autism Ontario

By Ron Giofu

A local elementary school continues to do its part to assist people with autism.

Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School presented a cheque for $1,500 to Autism Ontario, with west region program co-ordinator Livia Congi at the Girard St. school last Wednesday morning to accept a cheque on behalf of the organization.

Educational assistants Tina Leblanc and Michelle Connell helped present school fundraisers and were the ones presenting the cheque, along with several students they help support, to Congi.

Connell stated it was the second year they sold popsicles as a fundraiser for Autism Ontario and Leblanc added it was the third year overall that Stella Maris has done some sort of fundraiser for autism. Connell explained that popsicles were sold at recess time with students able to obtain them in a “drivethru” type format where kids could go up to a window and buy one.

Leblanc added there were other fundraisers that helped boost the overall amount, as there were T-shirts sold

Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School held fundraisers for Autism Ontario over the past several weeks and raised $1,500. The school donated the cheque last Wednesday morning to Autism Ontario west region program co-ordinator Livia Congi (standing in the foreground at the right of the photo).

and raffle baskets available for staff to purchase.

“That helped with the total,” she said.

Stella Maris held a kickoff assembly April 8 where students learned about autism and why they should help the cause. Leblanc said it was “a very touching” assembly and that some people were seen crying during it. She added the entire school did a great job supporting this year’s campaign.

“It was a great success,” she stated.

Each student in the school created an autism infinity spectrum symbol and they were posted outside of the school’s gymnasium during the campaign.

There are roughly a dozen students at Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School with autism, though their needs vary as some are high functioning while others need more supports.

Congi was pleased with the amount of donations raised by Stella Maris.

“It will stay local to Essex County,” she said of the proceeds.

Congi added Autism Ontario supports people and families if a person’s diagnosis is still being processed right through to people who need assistance for the rest of their lives.

Ribbon cutting held for new portrait studio

By RTT Staff

Photos were taken at the latest ribbon cutting, with photos also being what the business is all about.

Canadian Captures Photography officially opened its storefront location at 65 Sandwich St. North, in the addition along the St. Arnaud St. side of the building. It’s the latest step in the photographic journey of owner Crystal Laing.

“I have been doing photography for 16 years,” said Laing. “I absolutely love it.”

Laing has been doing mainly family and baby photography but stated she plans on branching out into more business photography and head shots. She was pleased with the turnout of friends, family, council members and town officials at last Thursday morning’s ribbon cutting ceremony.

“I love you guys,” she said. “I appreciate you guys.”

Laing said the business has grown and she now needs the storefront location as opposed to doing it out of her Amherstburg home. She joked that having three teenage daughters helped

with the decision to move out of her home.

Laing added the higher ceilings in her new locations allows her to do more things and add more services.

“I really wanted to expand and fulfill my potential,” said Laing.

People can book an appointment with Canadian Captures Photography through their website, located at www. canadiancapturesphotography.ca.

Mayor Michael Prue said anytime a new business opens, it is a big deal.

“We’re all out here to celebrate what is happening in town and this new photography studio,” he said. “This is an exciting event.”

Calling photography a fine art, Prue said Canada has had several famous photographers over the years. He thanked Laing for opening her business in Amherstburg.

“I wish her much success,” the mayor stated. “Maybe one day she’ll have whole series of shops.”

For more information, visit website, call 519-982-5976 or e-mail canadiancapturesphotography@gmail.com.

Mayor Michael Prue cuts the ribbon to open Canadian Captures Photography Portrait Studio last Thursday morning. He was surrounded by business owner Crystal Laing, her friends and family as well as other members of Amherstburg town council.

Policing stats come to council, speeding charges noted

By Ron Giofu

Policing statistics have come before town council with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment reporting for the first quarter of 2024.

There were 3,120 calls for service from January-March with 3,103 being dispatch generated incidents while there were 17 walk-in incidents.

There were 2,165 traffic offenses in the first three months of this year. There were 34 Part III summons, four liquor offenses and 296 reports of “other provincial offenses.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb took particular note of the traffic offenses.

“I know I’m a broken record on this but I think it needs to be said,” said Gibb. “The first three months of this year and if you extrapolate these numbers out, we’re going to have another record-setting year for the number of tickets the Windsor police – Amherstburg detachment is writing in this community. I don’t know what it’s going to take for the people of Amherstburg to learn to drive properly. I just don’t understand how we can be that bad every year where we’re writing more and more tickets.”

Gibb praised the work of Staff Sgt. Brian Caffarena and the team at the Amherstburg detachment but “people just need to start following the rules.”

Police report 12 break-and-enters, ten charges of theft over $5,000, 18 charges of theft under $5,000, three cases of possession of stolen goods, 26 fraud complaints, 12 mischief complaints, 26 assault complaints, two arson/fire call matters, three impaired driving charges and 19 classified as “other criminal code” offenses.

Councillor Don McArthur offered kudos to Const. Nick Dupuis for the community outreach efforts.

McArthur cited the work of Dupuis, the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment community services officer, and other police officers for their work on the April 21 “Cram A Cruiser” event at Sobeys that benefitted the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.

“Amherstburg residents filled up trucks and it was just nice to see,” said McArthur.

County Road 20 concerns

Councillor Diane Pouget requested that Mayor Michael Prue and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb go to county council to involve the Town of Amherstburg in a LaSalleinitiated traffic study for County Road 20. The section of roadway in Pouget’s motion was County Road 10 to the River Canard Yacht Club.

“The reasons are excessive speed in this area appears to create unsafe conditions for motorists and residents exiting 90 homes, the Edgewater Variety and gas station, customers trailering their boats to Coopers’ Marina and residents

trying to retrieve their mail from four mailbox postal stations in that two-kilometre stretch of road,” she said.

Pouget added other factors are that the sidewalk is close to the highway and that a section of County Road 20 in LaSalle has been reduced to 50 km/hr in a dense section of housing.

Prue said LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche brought the issue of a traffic study up at county council and a possible solution being a light at Front Road and Martin Lane and/or Victory St.

“One of the reasons she cited for LaSalle needing a traffic study and a slowdown on highway 20 in LaSalle was all the extra traffic being generated out of Amherstburg going through LaSalle,” said Prue. “Obviously, she thinks it’s coming from us so we won’t get any blowback if we say it is.”

Prue said either he or Gibb will bring the matter up at Essex County council.

Declarations

Amherstburg town council has declared Falun Dafa Day in Amherstburg. Administration has been directed to light up town hall blue May 13 in recognition of Falun Dafa Day with a flag raising planned for this Friday at 10 a.m. at town hall.

“I hope to see everyone out May 3 to raise the flag,” said Mayor Michael Prue.

Town council has also agreed to participate in the 2024 Daffodil Month Campaign as requested by the Canadian Cancer Society.

“Cancer effects everyone,” said Councillor Molly Allaire. “We have free health care in Canada. Get your PAP tests, your mammograms, colonoscopies, get it done. They can’t find it if you don’t participate. Call your doctor.”

Allaire added: “I think this is great to create awareness but we have to actually take care of ourselves. Step up and do it.”

May 12 has been declared as Fibromyalgia Awareness Day in Amherstburg. Administration has been directed to light town hall purple on that day.

LED signs

Councillor Peter Courtney questioned the electronic signs that are at each entrance to the town’s urban core and noted that an advertisement for a business appears on it and was asked by another business owner about it. Courtney wanted to know more about how businesses can get on the sign.

“I think it would be a good venture and a good way to raise money. I heard the money is going to replace the LED sign when it comes to the end of its useful life,” said Courtney.

Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne said administration is looking at way to create revenue for the sign and will bring further information to council.

Libro Centre expenses

Councillor Diane Pouget made a motion to have administration to prepare a report to decrease operational expenses at the Libro Centre and to have that report reviewed by the audit and finance committee and parks and recreation committee.

Mayor Michael Prue asked if Pouget had a dollar amount in mind with Pouget saying the Libro Centre has a $2 million operational deficit.

“As a councillor, I cannot know how much to reduce it,” said Pouget. “I’m asking for recommendations on how to review this significant deficit.”

Councillor Peter Courtney believed there were ways to create efficiencies at the Libro Centre but was unable to support the motion as it stood. Councillor Molly Allaire agreed as she believed there were always efficiencies they could find, and wanted a report looking at operations as a whole.

“Maybe they’ll come up with some great ideas, who knows?” she said.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said the time to debate the matter was at budget, not now, so he didn’t support the motion. Councillor Don McArthur called the request “nebulous” and didn’t support it.

McArthur said council has to guide staff on what programming and service needs to be offered. That has to align with the Strategic Plan and be discussed at budget. He said there is a spirit to “build up the Libro Centre” and create more programs for families.

“We know that it loses money. If there is a specific area that loses money, we can target that at budget,” said McArthur.

CAO Valerie Critchley said administration is always looking for efficiencies and brings them forth at budget. She acknowledged a Libro Centre deficit and there is not full cost recovery.

The Libro Centre is a public entity, and the town looks at that and all facilities and services on how to run them better, Critchley told town council.

Prue said he is not aware of any public recreational institution in Canada that makes money. He said “children need a place to play. Children need a place to unwind.” He added he wants to see a number requested and wanted staff instructed and given an amount if council wants a reduction.

The motion failed with only Pouget and Allaire voting in favour.

Boblo dock

Councillor Molly Allaire asked if there was any update on the decaying former Boblo dock along Front Road South. CAO Valerie Critchley said she has reached out to her contact at the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) and didn’t hear back from her prior to the meeting. Critchley said she will follow up further.

Country at Heart returns, helps out local CMHA branch

By Ron Giofu

People got a chance to get in touch with their rustic side and raise some money for a good cause in the process.

“Country at Heart” returned last Saturday night with proceeds to benefit the Windsor-Essex County chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association. The event was hosted for the first time at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing and presented once again by the Dan Gemus Real Estate Team.

Gemus said they have raised over $250,000 since starting to present events, which started out with a giant yard sale before turning into the “Country At Heart” dinner/dance events. Prior to assisting the Canadian Mental Health Association, funds have been raised for the Fight Like Mason Foundation, the waiting room at the Windsor Regional Hospital ICU, the Welcome Centre, the Windsor Youth Centre and the Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp.

“It’s a fantastic night. We’re sold out for

the seventh straight year,” said Gemus.

“We’re very excited about it.”

This is the third time “Country At Heart” has assisted the CMHA, with Gemus stating many people are impacted by mental health and the need for services.

The capacity for the event grew to 350 people this year by holding it in the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing. Gemus said they enjoyed the event’s previous home at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, but they have more room in LaSalle.

“Country At Heart” sells out quickly

because of the support of sponsors and guests, many of which return annually.

“Over the years, we’ve been so lucky to have the support of our sponsors,” he said. “The guests come year-after-year too.”

People enjoy coming to a fundraiser in casual attire, Gemus added, as they attend in jeans and have fun. The meal was presented by BBQ Feast out of London with the alcoholic beverages being served by Wolfhead Distillery from Amherstburg. His father Norm Gemus helped on the technical setup of the event.

CMHA Windsor-Essex CEO Nicole Sbrocca thanked the attendees and the local real estate firm.

“We are incredibly grateful for the contributions to CMHA and supporting our agency,” she said.

Sbrocca said the money will be devoted to the agency’s youth hub. She said that is a “comprehensive space” with a number of services to help area youth with mental health issues.

The Dan Gemus Real Estate Team will return with an event June 13-16, as they are bringing back Ribfest. Gemus said they are taking over organizational efforts and the event while they were looking at it returning to the Libro Centre grounds, they ended up going to Ramsay St. for the three-day event. Four ribbers and other food vendors will line the street.

Having Ribfest downtown keeps their costs lower, he added, and they will be partnering with other businesses in the area. He said there will be a charitable component as well with more information on that to be confirmed soon.

Councillor gets clarification on her remuneration report issues

By Ron Giofu

The council remuneration report that was deferred at the April 8 meeting returned April 22. Councillor Diane Pouget had concerns, including

discrepancies between what was listed in the report versus the amount on her T4 form and wanted it publicly clarified why the report had her making slightly more in remuneration in 2023.

Treasurer/director of corporate services Tracy Prince explained it was a timing issue between how the report is written and how T4’s are recorded. She said the same issue occurred in 2022.

was reduced on your expenditures because it was recorded as on the treasurer’s report in 2022,” said Prince to Pouget. “The timing difference results in the T4 because that is when you are paid or receive money.”

Prince said the overpayment took place in 2022 and it was reflected in Pouget’s 2022 T4. In 2023, it was $200 less on her T4, Prince added.

Canadian Diversity with Artist Jim Ogilvie May 2 to May 19

Exploring diverse “Cultural Landscapes” Reception Sunday May 5 - 1 pm to 3 pm

u May 17- Soap Making with Stacie May 24- Pastel Chalk with Anu Vedagiri May 31- Dottilism with Anne Ducharme Children’s Art Classes Saturdays In May

“You were paid for an additional event you didn’t attend, it got caught and was reversed in 2023. That amount

“The expenditures on the report would be $200 more than what’s on your T4,” Prince told Pouget.

Higgis Country Music performed at “Country At Heart” last Saturday night.

“Great Small Towns of Ontario” book coming soon

By Ron Giofu

A local businessman who prides himself as a community builder has authored his third book – this one about communities.

Richard Peddie has written “Great Small Towns of Ontario” featuring backgrounds and suggestions for ten towns in the province, including Amherstburg.

Other towns Peddie visited are Niagara-on-the-Lake, Cobourg, Goderich, Huntsville, Perth, Port Hope, Elora, Almonte and Picton.

Peddie said when he and his wife Colleen started investing in Amherstburg, they had objectives such as improving the economic, social and cultural aspects of the community. He noted they opened the River Bookshop, hosted Windsor Symphony Orchestra events and Art Windsor-Essex initiatives, opened other new businesses and held events.

“We’re starting to make a difference,” he said. “Then, I thought, ‘what else could we do here?’”

Noting he often likes looking at best practices and copying them, Peddie applied that line of thought to smaller municipalities.

“I thought ‘what are other small towns doing?’,” he said. “I took last summer and drove around the province in my car.”

Peddie said he took a “deep dive” into the towns,

having had a researcher look into each of the towns selected before he went there. Criteria for him visiting there was they had to have a library and an independent bookshop. In the bulk of the towns, he was able to meet the mayor and chief administrative officer (CAO) and discuss the community and issues local to them.

The book offers not only backgrounds on each community, but suggestions for them, best practices they offer and, much like the CBC television show of the same name, why they are “still standing.”

Regarding the latter, Peddie said many of the towns profiled either lost major industry, survived major storms or encountered other challenges.

“All of them are still standing and quite lovely,” he said.

Other topics featured in “Great Small Towns of Ontario” are about climate change, safe and active streets, placemaking, heritage buildings, the arts, “third places,” and YIMBY’s (Yes, in my backyard) vs. NIMBY’s (Not in my backyard). On the subject of third places, he said the first place is where you live, the second place is where you work and the third place is where you gather.

On the YIMBY’s vs. NIMBY’s topic, Peddie recalled an Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce address he made in 2019 on the topic, adding he believes he has since become “a lightning rod” for people who have liked changes locally and also for those who don’t.

Creating interest in voting is another topic covered, with Peddie stating he got voter turnout figures in each of the ten towns with the highest being 53 per cent. Amherstburg’s 39 per cent was second lowest. He indicated when the next municipal election comes around in 2026, some of his ideas about Amherstburg could become part of candidates’ platforms or at least topics that could be discussed.

Renowned urbanist and former Toronto mayoral candidate Gil Penelosa wrote the foreward to the book. Penelosa spoke in Amherstburg several years ago.

“Great Small Towns of Ontario” is Peddie’s third book, following more business-themed books “Dream Job” and “21 Leadership Lessons.” The Peddies’ company Black Dog Entertainment helped publish Meg Reiner’s book “Heritage Buildings of Amherstburg” and he worked with now-retired University of Windsor teacher and local publisher Marty Gervais to help launch the recently released “What Time Can’t Touch” poetry book about Amherstburg.

The book is about 160 pages and illustrated throughout, with it costing $29.95. It will be released May 6.

Local veteran receives Quilt of Valour

By Ron Giofu

Another local veteran has been presented a prestigious Quilt of Valour.

Dalton Moore, a Korean War veteran, was honored at his Amherstburg home Monday morning. Executive members from Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 joined Quilts of Valour Windsor-Essex County representative Pauline Gaudette in making the presentation to Moore.

Moore served 33 years in the CAF and is a VAC (Veterans Affairs Canada) benefactor with over 43 years of Legion service.

Gaudette went over the quilt specifically made for Moore, which was the 18th quilt she has made for a veteran since January. Adorned with patterns of poppies, she placed the quilt over Moore’s shoulders. Moore said he was very appreciative of the recognition. Joined by son Bob, he noted he has spent over four decades active in the Royal Canadian Legion though was absent for a time due to his career.

“This is wonderful,” said Moore. “Thank you so very much. It means the world to me. It really does show the Legion is a comradeship.”

Bob said they recently moved to Amherstburg from Scarborough, where they were both members of the Highland Creek 258 branch of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Upon relocating to Amherstburg, one of the first stops they made was Br. 157 in Amherstburg.

Continued on Page 15

Richard Peddie’s new book “Great Small Towns of Ontario” will be released to the public May 6.

Quilts of Valour Windsor-Essex County representative Pauline Gaudette shows a pin to recipient Dalton Moore. Moore received the pin as well as the new quilt.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, your friends have stepped up to support you, and it is time to get together and enjoy one another’s company. Think about an activity that everyone can get behind.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, the people around you may work more slowly than you, so you will likely need to be patient this week while working on a particular project. Eventually things will work out.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, exercise caution when dealing with people who promise big returns on your investments right now. Avoid financial dealings with anyone you have not fully vetted.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, some people around you would like to use flattery to get you to do what they want. However, you are too savvy to fall for people who may be guiding you in the wrong direction.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Loved ones and friends in your life deserve your time and energy right now, Leo. Figure out a way to cut down on hours spent on the job this week.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, things going on in your life right now may be a bit more confusing than you anticipated. It can be stressful, but with some assistance from others you will get through the situation.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Someone in your life who has not always been on your side has been changing his or her ways lately, Libra. You may want to reevaluate the relationship soon.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you have been working hard to avoid conflict with someone close to you, but it could start to feel like more effort than you can care to keep up.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

An interesting travel opportunity is coming your way, Sagittarius. When the news arrives, take advantage of it and start planning your itinerary.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, is your schedule flexible right now? Try to rearrange things to take advantage of some last-minute recreational opportunities. You deserve to have more fun.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you may be feeling moody and introspective right now. Take time to evaluate your dreams and the thoughts going through your head. There may be common threads.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Don’t let some ambiguous feedback adversely affect your mood, Pisces. You will never be able to please everyone, so focus on those people who are on your side.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 28 - Jessica Alba, Actress (43)

APRIL 29 - Jerry Seinfeld, Comic (70)

APRIL 30 - Gal Gadot, Actress (39)

MAY 1 - Jamie Dornan, Actor (42)

MAY 2 - Dwayne Johnson, Actor (52)

MAY 3 - Rachel Zegler, Actress (23)

MAY 4 - Randy Travis, Singer (65)

By Fred Groves

It was close, but once the final votes from the judges were tabulated, the winner of the second annual Chili Cookoff at the Masonic Lodge – Jeff Duguay.

His entry, one of 11 this year, narrowly topped that of Abby Warnock and Maeve Gate who represented the

Rainbow Girls and it was their very first-time making chili together.

For Duguay, he also won the People’s Choice Award, an accomplishment that he achieved last year at the Lodge’s first cookoff.

It was a capacity crowd for the event in Amherstburg and one that was a fundraiser for a local group.

“We are proud to present a portion of the proceeds to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission,” said Dave Cozens, who was the event’s host.

One of the entries this year had a true bilingual taste to it as the chef said it contained moose which he harvested in Quebec, wild turkey from Ontario and beans grown right here in Essex County.

The youngest entry was six-yearold Ben Gray of Amherstburg, who proudly dished out the chili he and his grandfather Steve made. Steve Gray travelled all the way from Pickering to be at the cookoff.

Wearing a chef’s hat for the occasion, Ben was second behind Duguay in the People’s Choice Award.

The night included a raffle draw and it is anticipated it will be held again.

“This is a wonderful response, let’s keep it going,” said Brenda Hooper of the hosting club the Eastern Star who also, for the second year, had an entry. Judges graded the entries on aroma, texture, appearance and taste.

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WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to gardens.

Two of the chefs at this year’s cookoff, Ben Gray (left) and Brenda Hooper.

Admirals wrap up 2023-24 season with awards night

By Fred Groves

Despite the hockey season being over for the Amherstburg Admirals, last week was a very busy one both on and off the ice.

The local Provincial Junior Hockey League club held its spring evaluation camp at the Libro Centre, and Sunday at Shooter’s Roadhouse had its annual wrap up banquet.

“It was a very trying season, as we all know, but we are pushing it in the right direction,” said club co-owner Greg Crain.

The Admirals finished sixth in the eight team West Stobbs Division, compiling a 10-32-0 regular season record before bowing out in the first round of the playoffs to the Blenheim Blades in five games.

General manager Andrew Sykes knows what it will take to move up in the standings come the fall.

“We want to be stronger from the crease out. We want to zone in on our goalies and defense,” said Sykes at Sunday’s banquet.

Sykes said that at the evaluation camp, goalie coach Matt Anthony put 17 netminders through their paces, and forwards and blueliners looked promising.

“There were a lot of players that are legitimate prospects,” noted Sykes.

Amherstburg officially said goodbye to its four overagers – defensemen Derek Berdusco and Jaxon Boucher and forwards Jacob Archer and Mitch Demelo.

Archer was named the Most Valuable Player for the year as he led the team in points with 35 and penalty minutes, 120.

Other award winners on the night were: Volunteer of the Year – Marissa Gaudet; Community Service Award – Dallas Kelly and Finnigan Russett; Most Improved – Ryan Dufour; Most Dedicated – Al Djordjevic; Rookieof-the-Year – Jake Goudreault; Best Defenseman – Jadyn Brown; Coaches Award – Travis Knight.

As far as the future goes and what next year will bring, Crain said, “keep working hard. You’re going to get there.”

Sykes reported that the bench staff led by head coach Beau Hunter and assistant coaches Zack Gervais and Zach Guilbeault are returning for another year.

“You guys have a great future as coaches and we look forward to your second season,” said Sykes.

Wolves girls team falls short against visiting L’Essor

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves girls soccer team were up against a tough L’Essor team last week and the results didn’t go their way.

The Wolves dropped a 4-0 decision to the Aigles last Thursday afternoon at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. The loss put the Wolves’ record at 3-2 on the 2024 WECSSAA Group 3 County AA senior girls soccer season.

L’Essor scored early in the first half and took a 2-0 lead early in the second half. They would score twice more late in the second half to round out the scoring.

“It was a tough game,” said North Star head coach Joe Ciliberto. “We played a really skilled and physical team. They took it to us in the second half.”

Ciliberto stated he believed they lost a lot of one-onone battles to L’Essor but still competed hard. He knew L’Essor was skilled and could move the ball quickly, but also learned about other aspects of their game last Thursday afternoon.

“I didn’t know they were going to be that physical,”

said Ciliberto. “Their goalkeeper was excellent as well.”

The Wolves conclude the regular season on the road with a match in Essex today (Wednesday) at 4 p.m. While North Star have qualified for the playoffs, they are hoping to improve their position within the WECSSAA standings.

“We need a win to secure a good spot in the playoffs,” said Ciliberto.

The loss to L’Essor showed where the Wolves need to improve.

“We need to be more defensively aware and we need to make better passes for sure,” he said.

North Star has to start games better and create offense right away.

“We need to start bringing the game to them,” he said, noting they have to stop “playing on our heels” and letting their opponents bring the game to them.

“We’ve got to bring it and work hard in the playoffs,” he said. “We’ve got to work hard for a full game and put some goals in.”

North Star boys soccer team busy with two games over the past week

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves boys soccer team wrapped up the regular season with a pair of games last week as they tried to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The Wolves entered the week with a 0-2-2 regular season record in WECSSAA City Group play. They added a tie to that mark thanks to a 0-0 deadlock with the visiting Catholic Central Comets last Wednesday afternoon at the Libro Centre.

“It was definitely a stalemate,” said North Star coach Gavin Blunt.

Blunt believes the Wolves are starting to come together as a team as the playoff season approaches. He noted Monday night’s regular season finale against Lajeunesse was key in terms of getting into the post-season.

“This team is young this year,” said Blunt. “We’ve had one or two lapses in a couple of games this season.”

The Wolves have only a handful of Grade 12 players with most being in Grade 10 or Grade 11, he added.

“The boys are trying hard,” said Blunt. “They’ve got to keep working and then the goals will come.”

Blunt added North Star is having “a better than anticipated season” and said after the Catholic Central game that the upcoming Lajeunesse game that was played Monday night was going to be extremely important.

The game against Lajeunesse ended in a 1-0 win for the Wolves, their first of the season. Fynn Randall scored the lone goal before heavy rain caused the last nine minutes not to be played.

Lajeunesse looked to have tied it late in the game but a goal was called back on an offside call.

“It was a good game,” said Blunt. “The boys finally showed up and displayed their potential of what they can be.”

Blunt said they “peaked at the right time” but it still might be too late, as they needed Kennedy to lose Monday and today (Wednesday) in order to qualify for the WECSSAA playoffs.

“Overall it was a good season for our young team,” he said after Monday’s game. “Hopefully it’s not the end. We still have more to give.”

The Wolves lose only one player to graduation and the bulk of the team is eligible to return next season.

“We’ll have pretty much everyone coming back,” he said.

The Amherstburg Admirals handed out their annual awards Sunday as the team wrapped up its season.

June Buchner heads up the field during the second half of last Thursday afternoon’s game against L’Essor.

North Star’s Kohen Sieben (right) heads the ball down the field last Wednesday afternoon versus Catholic Central.

FRIDAY, MAY 3

Community Calendar

FISH FRY; The Society of Saint Vincent de Paul will be hosting a fish fry at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. The fundraiser will be open from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome and you can eat in or take out a great meal of fish or chicken at a reasonable price. A dessert table is available. Come out and support a good cause.

SUNDAY, MAY 5

HASTA LA PASTA; Pasta luncheon held at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St., at 12 p.m. (following 10:30 a.m. service). Proceeds help youth ministries at the church, including paying for retreats and other activities. Cost is $10 minimum donation, at the door. Cash, debit or credit. Following the meal, there will be a dessert auction. Anyone with dietary restrictions that wants to attend can e-mail mark@encounteraburg.ca.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

PLANT SALE; Presented by the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society. To be held as part of the Amherstburg Farmers Market at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co., 8728 Howard Ave. Runs from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Great prices. Kids crafts. Cash only.

SATURDAY, MAY 11

LASALLE PLANT SALE; Runs from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 205 Laurier (at Divine St.). Great annuals and perennials available as are trees, shrubs, vegetables, herbs, hanging baskets, herbs and more.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

OPEN HOUSE; Being held at Amherstburg Target Sports in support of National Range Day. Starts at 10 a.m. This is an event for all ages, come for a tour of the facilities and see demonstrations of various shooting sports the club offers. All firearms, ammunition and safety equipment will be provided by the club. For $10 participants will be able to shoot in the rifle/pistol range, and 10 targets on the trap field or 5 stand. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, all adults please bring photo ID. Event has limited capacity. No private firearms, no pets. Please register on the Eventbrite space, payment required upon check-in at the club. https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/ amherstburg-target-sports-81915602253

ONGOING

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., May 7-June 25. Also in Harrow Thursdays from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Harrow Health Centre (1480 Erie St. S.) from May 9-June 27. Inclement weather alternatives are Libro Centre in Amherstburg and community room in clinic in Harrow. For information, call Amherstburg Family Health Team at 519736-7770 ext. 235 or Harrow 519-738-2000 ext. 522.

MISSION GOLF TOURNAMENT SEEKING SPONSORS; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission golf tournament is June 29 at Coachwood Golf and Country Club. Hole sponsors and main sponsor still being sought. Interested businesses/individuals can contact Laura at 519-982-2684.

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’s spring season starts May 4. Volunteers are still needed. People can help out at one game or multiple games (up to four) every Saturday through June 22, weather permitting. Great for students needing volunteer hours or adults looking for ways to give back. For info or to sign up, visit www. amherstburgmiracle.com.

ECLIPSE GLASSES; Glasses that were used during the solar eclipse can be dropped off in a collection box at the Libro Centre, 3295 Meloche Road. The box will be there until April 30. The glasses will be repurposed by children in Latin America for an eclipse there Aug. 1.

YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Resident looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for the WindsorEssex County Humane Society. Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett) at 519-995-4057 for pick up.

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 residents. 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., is 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, and bridge and doing line dancing. 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 are welcome. We are on Facebook!

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation). Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30-6:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome.

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 continues to accept 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 information, 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 fund 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

FOR RENT

3-BEDROOM UPPER

DUPLEX FOR RENT IN AMHERSTBURG; Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1200 sq. ft. Upper-Duplex in quiet neighbourhood on Queen Street. Open-concept living-room and diningarea with cathedral-ceiling. Carpet and Ceramic-Tile throughout. Open-concept kitchen with Island, Fridge, Stove and Dishwasher included. Private ensuite laundry-room, Washer and Dryer included. 3 Bedrooms with lots of closet-space. 4-Piece Bathroom. Central ForcedAir Conditioning and HighEfficiency Gas Furnace. No Smoking. Private access to your own deck, within shared rear-yard. $1,875 Monthly, plus Utilities. Minimum 1-year Lease. Apply with: References, Income-Verification & Credit Checks. First and Last Months Rent Required. By Appointment Only, call 519-736-4473 between 9:00am to 5 pm and leave a detailed message.

PEST

CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL

DELINE’S SERVING

AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.

YARN DONATIONS WANTED

YARN DONATIONS

WANTED; Resident looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for the WindsorEssex County Humane Society. Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett) at 519-995-4057

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

HAIRSTYLIST/ BARBER CHAIR RENTAL

Hairstylist Chair rental; available May 1, contact Vivienne or Carol at Carol’s unisex 519 736-4400

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.

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.

Skaters encouraged to “Bring on the Fun” at season’s last competition

By Ron Giofu

Skate Amherstburg welcomed surrounding clubs to town over the weekend for a competition that was not only geared for fun, but was actually named to reflect that.

“Bring on the Fun” was held both Saturday and Sunday at the Libro Centre with local skaters being

joined by competitors from Skate Lakeshore, Skate LaSalle, the South Windsor Skating Club, the Tilbury Figure Skating Club and Windsor Figure Skating Club.

“It’s a fun focused competition we’ve put together

locally in conjunction with Skate Ontario,” explained Skate Amherstburg president Lynn Fox.

The focus of the competition was to have fun in a relaxed atmosphere. While it was run like a competition, it was not ranked. Skaters had a chance to use props and gain experience in a competition-like environment, but were able to relax in a low-key environment for the end of the season event.

“Skate Ontario introduced this two years ago,” said Fox. “Some of the other clubs near Toronto were trying it for the first time.”

Skate Amherstburg decided to bring such a competition to this area and “Bring on the Fun” was brought to the Libro Centre. It was the first year for the event and Fox indicated it likely won’t be the last.

“We’re really enjoying it,” said Fox.

Fox added spectators were invited to get in on the act, as skating clubs decorated their areas of the stands in the Movati Rink (Pad B).

There were over 200 figure skaters over the two-day event, Fox stated.

“We’d love to do it again,” she said. “It’s such a happy atmosphere. How could we not?”

Korean War veteran Dalton Moore the latest recipient of a Quilt of Valour

Continued from Page 9

They were greeted and quickly transferred memberships to the local branch.

Moore recalled his tour of duty in the Korean War, even being able to crack a joke about an experience

Obituaries

Greg Wigle

June 23, 1944-April 13th 2024. 79 years

Greg passed away in Calgary, Alberta from Cancer.

Predeceased by his parents Cliff 1986 and Pearl 1992, his sister

Susan 2005 (Don Slater 2012). Survived by brother Kent (Peggy).

Greg joined the navy at 17 years of age, then returned to Amherstburg to work at GM Trim Plant, then became an Electrician when they moved to Calgary.

I’ll miss our motorcycle rides through the Rockies and B.C. And into the U.S. with you Bro and I will miss your visits to Amherstburg where you were born and raised. From Peggy and myself and our girls we will miss you. Your brother Kent.

there. He recalled an enemy plane dropping grenades near the medical unit he was serving in, comparing it to the episode of the television series M*A*S*H* on “Five O’Clock Charlie.” Moore joked a casualty of that experience was a bottle of rum that he had.

On a more serious note, Moore was thankful his service was recognized with a Quilt of Valour.

“I appreciate it 100 per cent,” he said.

Quilts of Valour started in the Edmonton area in 2006 when a volunteer – Lezley Zwaal – would visit wounded soldiers in the hospital and made them quilts to comfort them.”

The Quilts of Valour – Canada Society was launched as a registered national charity in 2009 and has seen thousands of quilts created and presented to Canadian veterans.

Each quilt is unique. There is an identification

Smeltzer, Mary Catherine (nee Caddel)

Reunited into the loving arms of her husband Douglas at the age of 89. Devoted mother of Timothy Smeltzer (Liisa 2022), Paul Smeltzer (Kathleen), Jayne Thrasher (Patrick 2001), Jamie Smeltzer (2021), Lisa Beneteau (Lawrence) and Peter Smeltzer, (Debbie).

Cherished grandma to 12 grandchildren and GG to 19 great grandchildren.

Predeceased by her parents Wallace and Elsie Caddel, her siblings Morrison Caddel (Gail), Murla Finley (Paul), Margaret Cannard (Doug), Deanna Petersen (Grant) and Ivor Caddel (Irene).

She will be dearly missed by her many relatives and many friends. Mary Catherine will be fondly remembered as a dedicated member of the Order of the Eastern Star for 63 years, serving as a Worthy Matron as well as several other capacities.

She was a life long fan of the Toronto Blue Jays. Mary Catherine was a very proud “Haweater”, through and through, and considered Manitoulin home.

At Mary Catherine’s request, a private family service has taken place with interment at Rose Hill Cemetery. If you so desire, donations may be made to Erie Shores Health Centre. Arrangements entrusted to James H. Sutton Funeral Home, 401 Sandwich St S, Amherstburg, ON. 519-7362134. Share a memory or sign the book of condolence at www. jhsuttonfuneral.ca

number and names of the quilter sewn onto a label in the quilt.

For more information, visit www.quiltsofvalour.ca.

Maureen Elizabeth Musyj (nee Marshall)

November 6, 1949 – April 24, 2024

It’s with heavy hearts the family of Maureen Musyj announces her passing at the age of 74. Beloved wife of 52 years to Bill Musyj. Cherished mother to Todd, Sherry, Billy Jr. (Amber), and Patrick. Proud Grandma “Bopchi” to Mackenzie, Nicholas, Danika, and dearly missed by Danika’s mother Nicole. Forever remembered by her siblings Janet, Gordon, and Mary Jo. Predeceased by her siblings Tom, Rosie, Patsy, Wayne (survived by best friend Rose Marshall), Sharon (survived by Rudy), and Chris and her parents Valda and Pete. Dear daughter-in-law of Vera Badiuk and the late George. Sister-in-law to Kathy (the late Bill), Linda (John), Jerry, Bobby, Randy (Pam), and Tina (George).

Maureen was loved by many special nieces and nephews. She will also be dearly missed by extended family and friends. A special thank you to those who have supported Maureen and her family throughout the years.

Maureen worked as a bank teller her entire life. Outside of work, Maureen’s heart belonged to her family. Her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy. Maureen loved travelling to Arizona to spend time with her family. Some of Maureen’s greatest passions included shopping with her sisters, playing bingo, and baking. Her butter tarts were well known amongst family and friends and never lasted long when she made a batch: A testament to the love she poured into each batch. In 2012, Maureen was faced with battling stage 4 cancer. With incredible strength, she fought tirelessly and emerged victorious. Maureen’s life was marked by unwavering love, selflessness, and resilience. Her selfless nature and caring heart touched the lives of everyone she knew, leaving an indelible mark on their heart.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. If desired, memorial donations made to Brentwood Recovery Home would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to SIMPLE CHOICE (Amherstburg), 519-254-2585. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca

Carlie Simon (above) and Katie Knapp (right) were two of the participants from Skate Amherstburg at the “Bring on the Fun” competition last Saturday at the Libro Centre.

Korean War veteran Dalton Moore was surrounded by Legion members James Jariett, Shawn Wilkie, president Ernie Gazdig, Allan Carroll, Bev Knight and his son Bob Moore.

Busker Auditions!

All ages. May 6, 3-7 PM Must register - 519-730-1309 Jugglers living statues mimes & others! Tues 7

Networking & Workshops for Amherstburg Businesses! talktheburg.ca/biz Yard Waste South Zone

Open Air Weekends ~ Starting May 31

Friday Night Market ~ Starting May 31

Ribs & Ragtime ~ June 8

Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural

Society’s Garden Tour ~ June 8-9

Amherstburg Ribfest 2024 ~ June 13

Kelly-Ann Way Grand Depart Ride ~

Share the Road-Essex County ~ June 15

Bob Meloche Fishing Derby ~ June 16

Woofa-Roo Pet Festival ~ June 22-23

Canada Day Celebration ~ July 1

Mind, Body and Soul ~ July 20

Art Crawl ~ July 21

Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy ~ July 28

Amherstburg Sightseeing Cruise ~ June 27, July 25, August 15 & 29, September 29

Watch Council & Committee meetings from the comfort of your home! amherstburg

Amherstburg Sunset Dinner Cruise ~ July 11 & August 15

The Mom Market -Shop Local Halloween Market ~ October 26