River Town Times - April 30, 2025 by River Town Times

Conservative incumbent Lewis re-elected in Essex

Liberals to form minority government

By Ron Giofu

The Conservative candidate for Essex had a smile on his face despite the fact his party returns as Official Opposition instead of forming government.

Chris Lewis won his third federal election in the riding and will return as the Member of Parliament for Essex after fending off three challengers Monday night (and into Tuesday morning). As of this writing, there were 277 of 278 polls reporting in the riding with 45,581votes (57.3 per cent) siding with Lewis with Liberal candidate Chris Sutton having 29,087 votes (36.6 per cent). NDP candidate Lori Wightman had 4,044 votes (5.1 per cent) while People’s Party of Canada candidate Jason Henry had 834 votes (one per cent).

Lewis and his Conservative colleagues, including two new ones locally, will have to work within a Liberal minority government led by Prime Minister Mark Carney.

“I know the people in Essex can celebrate tonight because you have someone who will go back and get the job done,” he said at his victory party.

Lewis was introduced by his father Kim as someone who loves and cares for people, with Kim stating they are proud of Chris for representing the riding for another term. Lewis thanked his father and his late mother Helen, as well as his wife Allison, their children and grandchildren and the entire team that worked with him during the election.

Referencing the large number of signs throughout the riding, Lewis indicated they knew things were going well during the campaign.

“Essex turned pretty darn blue,” he said. “I know signs don’t vote but they do tell the tale.”

Lewis entered the room at the Michigan Diner in Essex, joking that he wasn’t injured this year.

“No bubble wrap,” he quipped to supporters, in reference to previous election day accidents in the past.

A more serious Lewis said he was pleased to be chosen by the voters again in 2025.

“It’s the greatest honour of my life to serve the people.”

Lewis pledged to keep working for the people of Essex, and congratulated the other candidates. He said it was a civil campaign locally. He added he can’t wait to get back to Ottawa.

“I will do it with dignity and humility and with a bounce in my step and a smile on my face,” Lewis said. “I want to be part of the solution and not part of the problem.”

Lewis said he was proud of Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, saying he “stands firmly behind” his leader.

“He’s worked tirelessly,” said Lewis. “He cares about Essex. He cares about Windsor.”

Continued on Page 2

Joined by wife Allison and grandson Levi, Conservative candidate Chris Lewis cuts the cake at his victory party Monday night in Essex (above). This will be his third term as MP. Lewis hugs his father Kim after walking into the Michigan Diner (right).

Liberal Chris Sutton fails in bid to unseat Lewis

By Fred Groves

It was a bittersweet night for Liberal candidate Chris Sutton.

While his first time on the ballot did not generate the personal result that he and his Essex riding supporters wanted, the Liberals will once again form the government.

Sutton said he was happy to see Mark Carney defeat the Conservatives.

“This is the Prime Minister we need. He knows how to deal with Mr. (President) Trump. He’ll build a team to move forward. I am proud to say I was on that team,” Sutton told the River Town Times.

A small group of the local Liberal faithful gathered at Chuck’s Roadhouse in Essex and early goings saw incumbent Conservative Chris Lewis and Sutton in a tight race.

Five minutes after the polls closed the first of 278 polls reported but by 25 polls Lewis already had a comfortable lead.

“We had a fantastic team. We had some of the best volunteers ever. They put everything into it. When you are looking at a short time frame for an election, we started out digging ourselves out of a hole and going from there.”

It was a 35-day campaign, one that saw party leaders visit Windsor-Essex and an election that had the Essex riding with the third highest advance polls

turnout with 34,668.

The polls closed at 9:30 p.m. and it took to well after midnight for the final results to be determined. During the recent provincial election, it was less than half an hour as the tabulating was done electronically. This federal election the count was manual.

During the campaign and at his watch party Monday night, Sutton wore his trademark cowboy hat and boots and often referred himself as a worker for the workers.

“We did the best we could. We’ll see what happens in four years from now and come back better and even strong than we were this time.”

Lewis returns to Ottawa for a third term and maintains the seat he first won back in 2019.

“There were a lot of people not happy with the current MP and he is the MP again,” said Sutton. Congratulations to Mr. Lewis, I hoped he learned some stuff over the campaign.”

NDP newcomer Lori Wightman from Amherstburg finished a distant third behind Lewis and Sutton. It was her first time running on a federal card and she told the River Town Times that she was disappointed with the final results.

“I was hopeful that Essex County would want someone who shows up. We (NDP) have to regroup and rebuild,” said Wightman.

Throughout her campaign, she said that people are scared of what the future will bring. Asked what her political future is, Wightman commented, “I’ve learned in life not to plan too far ahead. I’ve been going non-stop for 37 days and am going to spend some time with my family.”

It was a disappointing night for the NDP as Jagmeet Singh stepped down as the party leader and locally, Windsor-West’s Brian Masse was defeated after serving for 23 years. Conservative Harb Gill won in Windsor West while Conservative Kathy Borrelli won in Windsor-Tecumseh-Lakeshore.

Lewis re-elected to third term to represent the Essex riding, other area Conservatives to join him

Continued from Page 1

Cost of living was the big issue Lewis said he heard at doorsteps. He believed there was a large faction of youth voters as many of them noted they can’t afford their own homes.

“We’re going to continue to pressure the government to remove the carbon tax and take it off of everything,” he said.

Tariffs were a bigger concern for businesses both small and large, including tool and die, mould making and the auto industry, he added.

Lewis wouldn’t call it a “bittersweet” night, noting that although “it would have been sweet to form government,”

all was not lost as the Conservatives still hold the Official Opposition status. He said it was “a unique election” in that there was the “complete collapse” of the NDP.

The re-elected Essex MP added he has shown he is capable of working with MPs from other parties and will continue to do so. Lewis was first elected in 2019, defeating NDP incumbent Tracey Ramsey. He followed up with a win in 2021, with Ramsey again finishing second.

Voter turnout in the Essex riding in 2025 was just shy of 72.45 per cent as of press time.

Liberal candidate Chris Sutton (left) and his wife Jennifer monitored the federal election results in Essex.

Long-time Amherstburg resident celebrates her 100th birthday

By Ron Giofu

Friends and family of Vera Badiuk filled the hall at Encounter Church on the weekend to celebrate a significant milestone in her life.

Badiuk was honoured on the occasion of her 100th birthday last Saturday, with her actual birthday being this past Monday.

“We call it 100 years of perfection,” said daughter Linda Purdie.

Born in Saskatchewan in 1925, Badiuk moved to Amherstburg in her teens. She was married to her husband George from 1949 until he passed away in 2006.

An avid bingo player, family members were planning to take her there later in the day.

Badiuk has seven children, 17 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren, many of whom were in attendance last Saturday. She expressed her gratitude to everyone who attended her birthday party.

Asked what her secret to her long life is, Badiuk smiled and said she has no real secret. She added she is pleased to be able to share her special birthday with her loved ones.

“It’s something out of this world,” she said of the festivities.

Badiuk said she was seeing a lot of people that she hadn’t seen for quite some time, some as far back as 20 years. She was greeted with flowers, cards and gifts by her loved one and stated she didn’t expect the party to be as large as it was.

A pair of local politicians were on hand to recognize Badiuk. Essex MPP Anthony Leardi congratulated Badiuk on her historic milestone and presented her with a special certificate from Premier Doug Ford.

Ford honoured Badiuk on her milestone birthday with Leardi also presenting Badiuk a framed photo of Queen Elizabeth II, as Badiuk has been a great admirer of the late Queen.

Mayor Michael Prue said of the 100th birthday parties he’s attended, most say their long lives are due to healthy eating and living well. He added that they also have family and friends who love them, and that was clearly the case last Saturday afternoon.

“That’s the secret, I’m sure,” he said.

Prue said the town is “so proud of you and what you have done,” and referenced the fact Badiuk worked at the Anderdon Tavern and Duffy’s Tavern in the past.

“They’re all closed down but you are still going strong,” said Prue.

Two people bound by court-ordered conditions arrested

The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment say they arrested two people after they were allegedly found near a local business despite courtordered conditions.

Police say that on April 21 at approximately 2:30 p.m., officers responded to a call for suspicious persons in the area of a local business. Upon arrival, officers located the described parties, a male and a female.

According to police, the parties were bound by courtordered conditions not to associate with one another.

As a result, police add the 31-year-old male and the 33-year-old female were both arrested and held for a

court appearance.

Alleged suspended driver

A traffic stop led to a male driver being charged, states the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment.

Police say the stop took place in the 200 block of Sandwich St. S. April 19 at approximately 6 p.m.

It is alleged that the 36-year-old male driving the vehicle was found to have a suspended driver’s license.

As a result, police say he was charged with Driving While Under Suspension.

Police add that the vehicle was driven from the scene by the female passenger, who was a licensed driver.

Vehicle vs. cyclist

An officer responded to a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Simcoe St. and Victoria St. S. April 23 at approximately 2:30 p.m. The accident involved a vehicle and a cyclist.

Police say the cyclist, a 24-year-old male, suffered a minor injury as a result of the collision. The cyclist was charged with Pass Vehicle- Not in Safety under the Highway Traffic Act, police add.

—All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service –Amherstburg Detachment

Vera Badiuk (seated, front row) was honoured on the occasion of her 100th birthday. Among the guests at her party last Saturday afternoon at Encounter Church were her family, friends, Essex MPP Anthony Leardi (far left) and Mayor Michael Prue (far right).

Bikes flow into Amherstburg as part of Good Friday ride

Reader “does

Victor DiNardo has suggested I do my homework regarding Donald Trump. I did and here’s what I found.

Businessman Trump has declared bankruptcy six times between 1991 and 2009 related to his hotels and casinos. Aren’t casino permits a license to print money? He settled a lawsuit over fraud for misleading students to his Trump University. He settled a $2 million lawsuit for misuse of funds from his charitable foundation.

By Donna Tuckwell

In a vibrant display of community spirit and camaraderie, cyclists from the Windsor Essex Cycling Group (WECG) gathered for their annual Good Friday ride, signaling the start of another exciting cycling season.

This year, the ride saw around 100 cyclists, including an eight-year-old participating in his first group ride.

Journeying from different areas of Essex County to the popular Flow Café in Amherstburg, riders took advantage of the stop to refuel with snacks and enjoy a well-deserved rest before continuing their route.

“We started off at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor,” explained Bill Davies, an avid member of the group. “We come in through the county roads, it’s a beautiful ride.”

The cyclists were organized into groups tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that everyone, regardless of experience, could join in the fun.

Fellow cyclist Doug Crowe noted, “we break into two or three groups,

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

his homework”

in response

Then there’s Trump steaks, Trump wine, Trump golden sneakers, Trump bibles, Trump trading cards with pictures of himself as a cowboy and an astronaut. Are these the enterprises of a successful businessman or a smalltime charlatan?

In his first term he signed the USMCA, a trading agreement between the USA, Canada and Mexico. In his second term he denounced the

depending on the caliber of the cyclist, from beginner to the seasoned cyclist so there’s groups for every type of rider.”

The WECG is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for cyclists of all ages and abilities throughout Essex County.

The organization comprises four unique subsections catering to diverse interests: WEBC MTB (mountain biking), WEBC Road (road cycling), WEBC Youth (youth mountain biking), and The Dirt Divas (women-specific cycling). Together, these groups form a remarkable collective united by a shared passion for cycling and inclusiveness.

As the season kicks off, the WindsorEssex Cycling Group continues to inspire both experienced cyclists and newcomers to embrace the joys of cycling, while contributing to the community spirit and inclusivity that they were formed on.

For more information about the club, or if you’re interested in becoming a member, visit their website at www.webcride.com.

to issue of Trump and tariffs

agreement and strongly criticized the person who signed it. Did he forget that it was himself or was he hoping everyone else did? When you sign a trade agreement you are committed to stand by it until expiry, not renege part way through.

Tariff agreements should be settled by negotiations with individual countries, not blanket high tariffs willynilly on the whole world.

When Barack Obama was president,

Trump condemned him for occasionally going golfing. He stated that if ever he was president, he would be working too hard to ever go golfing. He golfs continuously at his own golf courses and charges the taxpayers millions of dollars each time, a nice way to line his own pocket. Elbows up!

Local resident responds about issues of tariffs, trade wars

Let me start with a statement, “misinformed minds” are to lazy to research and just spread misinformation.

If you do your homework, then you should know that under the 2020 USMCA (USA/Mexico/Canada) agreement, there are no tariffs on any products if the countries stay within the agreedupon export limits.

This agreement was made with Trump, and he stated that it was the best agreement ever.

Now he made comments that Canada charges unfair tariffs. This is complete nonsense.

As far as Trump being a businessman, he bankrupted six of his corporations and was involved in about 3,500 lawsuits.

All financial analysts say the same thing: tariffs are hurting all people, including the average American, who now pay more for everything.

The USA will not win this trade war because all countries will find other

trading partners and drastically reduce doing business with the USA.

There are about eight billion people in this world, and they don’t have to buy U.S. made cars, machines, food etc. The Chinese and other countries are just too happy to fill this gap.

BMW, Mercedes, and VW are building vehicles in the U.S., and there are some U.S.-made cars in Europe, but most of them will not meet the technical requirements to be approved for sale in Europe. That’s why Ford, GM, and Chrysler have factories in Europe to produce for the local market. Again, do your homework.

More and more professional people are leaving the U.S. because if you say anything against Trump or his policies

you may get arrested like one judge did last week.

These are clear signs of a dictatorship which we all can research. Do your homework.

The silver lining for Canada is that our politicians have finally woken up and are working on eliminating interprovincial trade barriers and are in talks with Europe and Asia to increase trade with them.

It may hurt our economy in the short term, but Canada will be stronger in the future.

Elbows up and never 51st state.

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 may edit for libel and/or slander concerns.

• 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.

—Holger Kretschmann Amherstburg

—John Duguid Amherstburg

Bikes were lined up at Flow Café and Bikes after riders stopped for a short break as part of a Good Friday ride. The ride had started at the Ciociaro Club in Tecumseh and made its way though county roads into Amherstburg.

Annual Jane’s Walk Festival reveals interesting facts about Amherstburg

By Fred Groves and Ron Giofu

The Town of Amherstburg is filled with historic gems, some might not be as well-known as others.

As part of this year’s Jane’s Walk, the Essex County Library gave visitors a bit of a behind the scenes look at the old Carneige Library.

Librarians Julie Feher and Kandice Cramer hosted the tour of the library that pre-dates the current building that was constructed over 110 years ago in 1913.

Amherstburg’s interest in the written word goes all the way back to 1821 with the creation of the Library Reading Association, and 60 years later Dr James Boyle was a major contributor.

“He was a generous, eccentric man. In 1882, he gifted his personal library of over 500 books,” explained Cramer.

In 1913, Rev. Thomas Nattress was the driving force in securing a $10,000 grant to help build the Carnegie Library.

“At the time he was the chariman of the library board. He was very active in overseeing the construction and he was an avid member of the historical society,” said Cramer.

While the library has seen numerous renovations and uses, including a daycare in the basement in the 1970’s, the original architectural features are still very prominent.

A stone pediment in the front archway, original windows, half of the basement is below grade, over-sized stone chimney and 16-inch walls. There is also a bit of a mystery in the small staff kitchen in the basement.

“There is a dumbwaiter and we are trying to figure out where it goes but we can’t find it,” said Feher.

The annual Jane’s Walk took place in Essex County this past weekend with Talks and Tours at several locations in town and in all, there were 55 tours scheduled over two weekends which will see the event shift to the city this upcoming weekend.

“Jane’s Walks are getting more popular. I think we are the second largest in the province,” explained Tammy Dewhirst, chair of the Architectural

Conservancy of Ontario Windsor-Essex chapter which hosted the local tours.

While some, including the library and the History of the Royal Canadian Legion, Fort Malden Branch 157 were more talking than walking, a few, such as the ‘After the Army’ gave visitors a chance to stretch their legs.

Hosted by guide Lynda Leopold, she gave an interesting and very factual talk on what Amherstburg was like during the 1850s, a time period that shadowed the creation of what was then a military town.

“Just like today when a big government thing comes to town, people think how they can make money,” she said of how the town came to be.

On her tour, Leopold stopped near the Gordon House and noted how important the Detroit River and the waterfront was when it came to business.

“This would have been a dirty, industrial area. The dock at the end of Murray Street provided the town with all their dry goods.”

At Fort Malden itself, she said that after the War of 1812, British retired soldiers known as pensioners moved to town. There were 82 families, 350 people in total and many of their original cottages are still being used as residences.

“This was a pretty quiet outpost for the next 20 years (after 1812). When they came it increased the population of Amherstburg by over 20 percent.”

Other points of interest to learn on the Jane’s Walk included “Bois Blanc Island” which was led by Cindy Prince of Amico, “Look again Outside”, led by Sophie Hinch of Art Wndsor/Essex in both French and English and author Debra Honor presented her book “The Lives that Touched Belle Vue out at the John R. Park Homestead.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 was added to the Jane’s Walk this year with president Shawn Wilkie giving both a talk and an indoor tour Sunday morning.

Wilkie went over early veterans’ organizations and locations from places on Richmond St., Seymour St. and Gore St. They formed as the Canadian Legion in

1927 and, with the Queen’s consent, became Royal Canadian Legion a few years later. The local Legion received its official charter in April 1930, with Wilkie accepting recognition for the 95th anniversary for at a recent conference.

The Legion operated out of the Waterworks Building, which was in the area where King’s Navy Yard Park is today, in the 1940s. The Stancliff residence was purchased in 1946 and that became what is now the Legion on Dalhousie St. It is the southerly portion of the current site, with the former Boblo Tavern purchased in 1981 next door and the site combined into one building.

Wilkie went over the passing of the torch of the Sgt.-at-Arms position, from John Nye to Richard “Dick” Girard to Girard’s son Tim. The Ladies Auxiliary was formed in 1957, he noted.

The Legion has a long history of helping organizations in the community

and region, Wilkie added. He said last year’s poppy campaign raised $27,000 in Amherstburg to support veterans and their families.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 is one of the oldest branches in Ontario with the #202 Fort Malden Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps that it helps support being one of Ontario’s oldest cadet corps.

Wilkie also went over the memorabilia that is around the branch, either in display cases or on the walls.

While there are Legions closing in the province, including three more in the next three months, the Amherstburg Legion stays open because of strong community support, he said.

The veterans who served are the reason Canadians have the freedoms they do, he added.

“These are people who gave us the God-given rights we have today,” he said.

THE AMHERSTBURG NON-PROFIT SENIORS HOUSING CORPORATION “THE WESVIEW” 50-UNIT SENIORS APARTMENTS IS SEEKING VOLUNTEERS TO SERVE ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The successful candidates will have the following qualities:

• An interest in working to provide affordable housing to meet the needs of seniors.

• The time to attend quarterly meetings at the Wesview.

• The ability to work as part of a team dedicated to improving life for seniors in Amherstburg.

• A current criminal records check for volunteers will be required.

Candidates should send their expression of interest and a brief resume by email to the President at iangphil@sympatico.ca before May 5, 2025

Kandice Cramer, left; and Julie Feher gave a tour of the Carnegie Library.

RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES

Earth Day observed with tree-related events in Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

Trees were both planted and given away at a pair of Earth Day events in Amherstburg on the weekend.

A tree planting event took place last Saturday morning in Golfview Park, near the entrance to the trails that surround the naturalized former settling ponds. A total of 100 trees were planted with species including Black Walnut, Kentucky Coffee Tree, Tulip Tree, Downy Serviceberry Shrub, Silver Maple, Red Maple, Bur Oak, White Cedar, Black Cherry, American

Sycamore and Nannyberry Shrub.

Mayor Michael Prue thanked those who gave of their time on a chilly Saturday morning to come out. He noted the town’s environmental advisory committee declared 2025 the “Year of the Tree” in Amherstburg with Environmental Stewardship Awards now accepting nominations.

These awards will recognize outstanding community members who have demonstrated environmental leadership and commitment to sustainability in previous years. Winners will

be nominated by Amherstburg residents and evaluated by the environmental advisory committee. Selection will be based on their contributions to environmental initiatives and conservation. Recipients will be awarded a custom two-inch signature coin and formally recognized at a regular council meeting in early 2026.

The “Map & Grow” program returned to the Libro Centre as well Saturday morning, with 200 trees of five different

species given away. Residents could choose from Linden, London, Tulip, Red Bud or Ivory Silk Lilac trees.

The program is held in partnership with the University of Windsor’s School of the Environment.

Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon stated residents were lined up as early as 8 a.m. to get free trees, with the opening time scheduled for 9 a.m. She said 169 applications were filled out online prior to the event.

“We knew it would be a busy morning,” she said. “This is the best turnout we’ve had.”

In exchange for the trees, participants agreed to provide researchers long-term access to monitor and track the tree’s growth using GPS mapping. Baillargeon said university students will also go out and monitor the growth of the trees, something they have done in the three years previous.

The trees were purchased through the town’s tree planting budget and Baillargeon said the town is open for people or businesses to sponsor the program in the future.

Bryerswood Youth Camp hosts annual Earth Day event

By Ron Giofu

Those who attended the Earth Day celebration at Bryerswood Youth Camp were kept busy with a variety of green events and activities.

Activities were set up around the Texas Road campground from the ability to purchase plants from Amherstburg-based Native Trees & Plants, a look at cars from Windsor Chrysler, a chance to check out home EV charging systems from Taurean EV, phragmites cutting by the Essex County Field Naturalist Club, and to

learn about worm composting, bird appreciation, solar cookers, pollinator garden planting, used household battery collection, children’s activities and more.

Green Sun Rising, Flow Café and Bikes, Icon EV, McGuire Tree Service and the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority were other organizations represented.

Cathy Robertson, vice president of the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC), said the event was to show “little things people can do to help take care of the Earth.”

Continued on Page 7

Carlo Orlando and children Joseph (foreground) and Maella (background) build a bird house as part of the Earth Day activities held at Bryerswood Youth Camp.

Members of town council, staff and the general public teamed up on a tree planting at Golfview Park last Saturday morning (above), a group that included Steve, Reid and River Marion (right).

North Star High School hosts annual “Springfest” vendors event

By Fred Groves

Tote bags, chocolates, jewelry, books, charcuterie boards and wood carvings.

Those were just a few of the items that were for sale at North Star High School last Saturday. North Star hosted its third annual Springfest and once again, it was well attended.

According to teacher/organizer Sam Thomas, there were over 200 vendors who were set up in the gym, down hallways and outside.

“They are all different. It’s everything you can think of. It’s one of our big fundraisers of the year,” said Thomas. Springfest came as an idea following the popular Pumpkinfest that was a fall tradition for over 30 years at the now closed Western Secondary School. Pumpkinfest will be held at North Star in the fall and both events help raise funds for such things as field trips, bus trips and even signage.

According to Thomas, one of the reasons they are so successful is because of the volunteer hours put in by as many as 50 students.

Some of them were busy working in the kitchen, preparing and serving lunch.

“They know their jobs and they are so helpful. They helped the vendors carry their boxes in and they will help them at the end of the day.”

Annette Rochon and her daughter Sam Gagnon were one of the vendors as their company – Luna Xpressions had lots of interesting items. The duo even came to Springfest wearing matching shirts.

Ted Rocheleau was busy selling his Butch’s Best BBQ Sauce but as he explained, it’s not just for what’s being cooked on the grill. He said the different varieties can be put on everything from eggs to apples.

“Our sauces are tangy and sweet,” said Rocheleau. We have five different levels of heat. Our extreme is seven-and-a-half

out of ten for hot.”

His entrepreneurial spirit was shining through and he said that he has been making the sauce since 2020 and is already being sold in 50 stores.

Next up for Bryerswood Youth Camp is their open house this Sunday

Continued from Page 6

Robertson outlined what the BYCOC was offering to attendees at the Earth Day celebration with the aim of educating people about measures they can take to be eco-friendly.

People could also enjoy fresh rhubarb and even plant some butternut squash seeds they could take home.

Cooler temperatures and other competing events may have been the reason attendance wasn’t as high as hoped, but organizers showed enthusiasm in showing those who turned about all of the Earth Day activities.

Sponsorships included TD Friends of the Environment as the bird appreciation sponsor, the River Town Times as the media sponsor and Green Sun Rising as the event sponsor.

Those wishing to see what the Bryerswood Youth Camp has to offer may also come out this Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for an open house.

The open house is free to attend and the BYCOC will show what they offer, from camps to rental opportunities to reunions, picnics and celebrations. There will be a scavenger hunt, games, crafts and chances to tour the site.

The campground is located at 6480 Texas Road near McGregor.

ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS FOR RENT

• Fridge & stove included

• Dishwasher & OTR microwave in select*

• Walk-in closet*

• Private balcony or patio

• Underground parking Amenities:

• Regular resident events

• On-site laundry facilities

• On-site storage

• Elevators

• Water included

• Fridge & stove included

• Dishwasher & OTR microwave in select*

• In-suite storage

• Private balcony or patio

• Heat & water included

• Fitness facility

• Games room

• Social room

• Elevators

• Underground parking

• Amherstburg Community Services available

Ted Rocheleau displays Butch’s Best BBQ Sauce

Annette Rochon, left; and her daughter Sam Gagnon at their booth - Lucan Xpressions.

Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club vice president Cathy Robertson goes over a seed planting exercise last Saturday.

ERCA celebrates the planting of seven millionth tree in region

By Ron Giofu

It was a time to celebrate a milestone for the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA).

ERCA planted its seven millionth tree last Thursday morning at Maidstone Woods Conservation Area, something that was done as part of Earth Week. ERCA chair Molly Allaire said the tree that was the seven millionth was also one of 70,000 trees that will be planted over the next six weeks as a way to enhance regional biodiversity. She noted the theme of Earth Day this year is biodiversity, something she said is “to encourage as many as possible to reconnect with nature and better understand the importance of preserving biodiversity for ecosystem balance, food security, and resilience to climate change.”

Allaire pointed out that the Maidstone Woods Conservation Area was ERCA’s first conservation area when it was acquired in 1974.

“We thought it would be a great location to celebrate the milestone,” she said.

Calling it a “tremendous achievement,” Allaire thanked the community as well as ERCA staff both past and present.

“Over the past five decades, with the help of thousands of volunteers, support from hundreds of landowners, and the financial assistance from many donors and the Essex Region Conservation

Foundation, forest coverage in our region has expanded to 5.4 per cent, and the percentage of total natural areas now measures 8.5 per cent,” Allaire stated.

The United Nations standard for environmental sustainability is 12 per cent.

“It is important to recognize that the biggest constraint to tree planting is the availability of land,” she said. “Currently, ERCA has no vacant lands on which to plant more trees.”

Allaire challenged the community to advocate to municipalities and others to identify areas where reforestation can take place. ERCA also accepts donations of lands suitable for restoration purposes.

“We’re more than willing to help plant the trees,” she said.

Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki van Oirschot indicated there is a shared commitment to life, restoration and the future. She said she was taught about reciprocity, that “what we take we must give back.”

Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey represented the municipality where the tree is located and said the seven millionth tree is a testament to the work ERCA has been doing for the last 50 years.

“It’s also the perfect symbol of your success,” said Bailey.

Like a tree, Bailey said ERCA’s roots run deep in the region and compared the branches of a tree to the conservation authority branching out and partnering with municipalities, groups, businesses, schools and individuals around the county. She said the celebration wasn’t just about what ERCA has accomplished, but what they continue to do by working together.

ERCA CAO Tim Bryne called the accomplishment “amazing” and told reporters after the ceremony he was pleased with the County of Essex’s recent Official Plan update which calls for 15 per cent natural cover in the area.

“We’re working closely with the County of Essex to achieve that goal,” he said.

Byrne acknowledged funding is always a challenge but he added it is becoming more difficult to find land suitable for restoration. He put a call out for land no longer suitable for farming or for developers with surplus lands.

“People need to realize that we will not be here if these areas are not here,” he said.

Fine ‘N’ Dandy Beer Festival hosted at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co.

By Fred Groves

A good time for a good cause.

And of course, the beer was good, really good.

Amherstburg’s G.L. Heritage Brewery was the host Sunday afternoon for Fine N’

Dandy, that had visitors curious to how you can make dandelions into beer.

“Some research says it helps fight cancer. It’s appropriate to the festival where it is about fighting cancer,” said G.L. Heritage co-owner Jen Desjardins-Grondin.

G.L. Heritage’s offering on the day was a light creamy ale that had a smooth finish and a bit of a herbal flavour like green tea.

The outdoor festival drew a large crowd and it is an annual event with proceeds going to Hospice of Windsor and Essex County and the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation.

It was started back in 2016 by Walkerville Brewery’s Jeffrey Craig who passed away from cancer but inspired the event.

Continued on Page 13

The Essex Region Conservation Authority planted its seven millionth tree last Thursday at Maidstone Woods Conservation Area. From left: Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey, ERCA chair Molly Allaire, ERCA CAO Tim Byrne and Caldwell First Nation chief Nikki Van Oirschot.

Eric Robert helped organize the Fine ‘N’ Dandy Beer Festival last Sunday afternoon.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to decorating.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, there’s a secret that you have been holding on to and you are ready to let it go. It won’t weigh you down anymore and you can finally focus fully on the future instead of the past.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, certain ground is tough for people to travel, but you have conviction and grit to get things done. You have a history of thriving when faced with adversity, and that’s an asset.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, keep an eye open for a challenge. When you are given an opportunity that will require for fullest and best effort, embrace it as an opportunity to fulfill your potential.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, keeping things pleasant and lighthearted is a talent of yours, but this week you might need to take a new approach. Work with others and listen to suggestions.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you often are the life of the party, always ready to find something to do and be with other people. This week you might need to slow down and enjoy some alone time.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you could be especially energized this week and feel the need to get as much done as possible. Try not to race through tasks without focusing on doing things right.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

The news that comes your way isn’t what you had hoped, Libra. Roll with the punches and embrace the challenge. Soon there will be blue skies again and everything will settle.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you will meet up with someone you haven’t seen in a while and it will be like no time has passed whatsoever. Be prepared for a coincidental situation to bring you together.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

The universe will put you in touch with someone who is reputable and diligent, Sagittarius. This way you can both tackle what you need to get done reap the rewards of your hard work.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, a little competition never hurt anyone. Embrace an upcoming chance to see how you stack up. Give your best effort, as always.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

This is a good week to play things safe and keep your cards close to the vest, Aquarius. Consider each situation carefully before engaging.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you are a sociable person and ready and willing to chat up others. This week you might not be up for any social interaction and prefer a few days of solitary time spent.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 27 - Lizzo, Rapper (37)

APRIL 28 - Jay Leno, TV Host (75)

APRIL 29 - Jerry Seinfeld, Comic (71)

APRIL 30 - Gal Gadot, Actress (40)

MAY 1 - Tim McGraw, Singer (58)

MAY 2 - David Beckham, Athlete (50) MAY 3 - Eric Church, Singer (48)

Local athlete runs eighth Boston Marathon

By Ron Giofu

Ashley Meloche returned to Massachusetts April 21 and it was the eighth time she completed the legendary Boston Marathon.

The Amherstburg resident said it was “a perfect day weather-wise” to run in the marathon and it was the first time she was back since her two children were born.

“It was exciting to be back,” she said.

Boston is a great place to be on the day of the race, Meloche said, and

said it was her first in-person Boston Marathon since 2019. She ran it virtually in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The goal was to enjoy it as much as possible,” she stated.

She finished with a time of three hours, 14 minutes and 15 seconds (3:14:15).

Meloche qualified for Boston last year at the Last Chance marathon in Grand Rapids, Michigan last year. While it was the eighth time she ran the Boston Marathon, Meloche has run 13 marathons in total.

Meloche ran marathons in Amherstburg when they were presented and has travelled to Toronto as well for runs.

Long distance runs have been something Meloche has been interested for quite some time.

Meloche began running in elementary school, ran throughout high school and university and ran her first marathon after university. Now a doctor, she still runs as much as she can and enjoys the experience especially in Boston.

Boston embraces the marathon and presents an energetic atmosphere, she explained.

“It’s a very neat experience,” said Meloche.

As for what her next marathon will be, Meloche said it will likely be the 2026 Boston Marathon. When she competes in Boston, training usually starts around the previous December or January. She said her husband Josh is a huge supporter of her, as is her entire family and friends.

SPECIAL TO THE RTT

Dr. Ashley Meloche (right) stands with husband Josh after completing the Boston Marathon April 21. It was Meloche’s eighth Boston Marathon.

AMHA holds final year-end banquet for travel players

By Ron Giofu

An era ended last week but before a new one could begin, key members of the past were recognized.

The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) held its travel banquet last Thursday night at the Libro Centre, the last one under the AMHA banner. When minor hockey returns in the fall, Amherstburg will be under the umbrella of Lake Erie Minor Hockey Association (LEMHA) after the amalgamation of AMHA and the Erie North Shore Minor Hockey Association (ENSMHA). ENSMHA included Harrow and Kingsville.

The new team nickname will be the North Stars.

AMHA president Wes Ewer thanked the executive board for their efforts as well as the over 400 players and their families. He also thanked Gary and Deb Toupin, the president and registrar of ENSMHA. Both Ewer and Gary Toupin will be co-presidents of the first LEMHA board.

Ewer said he contacted long-time arena employee Jeff Long about the history of minor hockey in Amherstburg, dating back to when the former AMA Arena opened in Dec. 1970. After starting that season in places like Leamington and Tilbury, they moved to the new arena that opened with plywood instead of plexiglass because the latter hadn’t arrived yet.

There was no club nickname at that time so the travel teams were sponsored individually and had different colours. The

original North Star team was the 1971-72 juvenile team and had white uniforms with matching pants and helmets.

“In the early years, the TCMHA (Tri-Community Minor Hockey Association) had some great people involved like Reg Spencer, who was an executive member and coach and was so very involved in minor sports over the years,” Ewer said.

Ewer’s consultation with Long also pointed out others who were very involved in the early years such as George Doherty, Joe Laframboise, Tom Kilgallin, Ed McCaffrey, Brud Carmichael, Steve and Charlene Walach, Bob Bertrand, Gerry McDonough, Gerry Bezaire, Rosemary and Bob Fryer, Roy Pittman, and Mike and Cheryl Hallock.

“A lot has happened since then. We shifted to Colorado colours and became the Amherstburg Stars,” said Ewer. “We got our hallway painted along with the Admirals to bring some more spirit to our dressing room area. We moved to the Libro Centre. We moved to the Bluewater League. We put some banners up in the rafters.”

There were seven Lifetime Achievement Awards presented, the first of which was to past president Marc Renaud. Renaud has spent over 20 years in a volunteer capacity with AMHA and is still with the board. The retired Unifor representative was described by Ewer as someone who “dedicated his life to service for others.”

Renaud served as the equipment manager and would eventually become a coach with the organization. He first served as AMHA president in 2007 and

then again from 2009-23.

“Offering advice and mentorship to all on the board, especially to me, this person was also named a lifetime board member for AMHA and now the new LEMHA, the first and only honour AMHA has bestowed on anyone,” said Ewer. “The former town councillor has since retired from work and public service, but he can’t retire from us.”

Joe Laframboise was another award recipient with his journey with AMHA starting in 1970.

“He had a key role in fundraising for Amherstburg’s very first arena, a place many of us spent countless hours as kids, laying the foundation for us to be where we are today,” said Ewer.

Laframboise coached countless AMHA teams from house league to travel from the 1970s to the 2000s. He coached Amherstburg’s first OMHA championship team in 1977 – the Juvenile BB team and Ewer said he made his mark off the ice through his sporting goods store J and R Sports “where he made sure all kids could afford to play this great game that he and we all love so much.”

Noting that Laframboise coached his children and grandchildren, Ewer said Laframboise instilled his passion for the game in all of his players.

“His approach to coaching was rooted in his own experience as a player, having spent time with the legendary Toronto Marlies,” said Ewer. “He took what he learned from the game and poured it back into the community he loved. He never stopped giving.”

Rosemary Fryer received a Lifetime

Achievement Award with her journey also starting in the 1970s. Ewer described her as a key figure in the early years of TCMHA and AMHA all the way until moving to the Libro Centre

“She and her husband spent 43 years shaping the association through a variety of roles,” said Ewer.

Fryer spent time as the fundraising co-ordinator, travel convenor and referee-in-chief before becoming AMHA president. Ewer said the role most will remember her for was being the “gatekeeper” at the old arna, collecting fees to watch the travel games and offering a welcoming smile to all who attended.

The fourth Lifetime Achievement Award went to Leonard Mailloux, who started with AMHA in the 1990s when coaching is son.

“In his mind, if he had to get up to go to a 6 a.m. practice and freeze his butt off in the stands, he might as well help out and get on the ice,” said Ewer. “The rest is history.”

Mailloux coached at a variety of levels and age divisions, encouraging his players to connect with the game by watching Hockey Night in Canada. He devoted 29 years to AMHA while only coaching his sons for eight of those years, said Ewer.

“Outside of AMHA, he helped Dan Pettypiece with the AMA hockey schools for about eight years, he helped coach the General Amherst girls hockey team for three seasons and also helped with the South Windsor Skating Club for 18 years.

“Now retired, he gets to enjoy watching his grandsons play the game he loves and has given so much to,” said Ewer.

Pettypiece was another honouree, with Ewer crediting him with directly impacting a lot of skating techniques over the past 50 years. Pettypiece started as a non-parent volunteer in 1976 and coached multiple levels in house league and travel. He also served three years as AMHA equipment manager.

The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to seven individuals. AMHA president Wes Ewer made presentations to (top row, from left): Rosemary Fryer, Paul Tonietto, Marc Renaud and Leonard Mailloux as well as (bottom row, from left): Joe Laframboise, Dennis Emerson and Dan Pettypiece.

SATURDAY, MAY 3

Community Calendar

NATHANIEL DETT CHORALE CONCERT; Being held at All Saints Anglican Church in Windsor (330 City Hall Square W.). Concert is part of 50th anniversary celebrations for the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. It is raising funds to support the museum’s mission to preserve and share African-Canadian history, particularly that of the Underground Railroad. Tickets are $40 general admission, $30 for students. Available online at www.amherstburgfreedom.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 9

MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH; Held behind the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St. Runs from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Performers include Joe Perry, Ken Arsenault, Phil Nitz, Mike Barrette, and Johnny Mac. Admission is free, donations welcome. Bring your own chair.

FRIDAY, MAY 9

FRIDAY NIGHT CRUISE-IN; Classic car show being held at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St. in Amherstburg, starting at 4 p.m. Cars, trucks, rat rods, hot rods. Burgers, hot dogs, pop and water available. Come early!

THURSDAY, MAY 29-SATURDAY, MAY 31

HOPE OF ST. JOSEPH YARD SALE; The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. is bringing back its large yard sale for one weekend only. They are now accepting donations of good, clean quality items for the three-day sale (scaled down from previous years). Money raised will support girls and boys shelters managed by Father Donato. Please no large furniture. All donations can be delivered to Mary and Marc Beneteau’s home, 3560 Middle Side Road (County Road 10). Must call Mary first at 519-996-4800.

ONGOING

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hubs Windsor-Essex presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people ages 12-15. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. (Amherstburg Community Hub). For details, call 519-800-8640.

GIBSON GALLERY EVENTS; “Moments in Time” exhibit by Sandra Menard & Lynda Todon running May 1-18. Opening reception May 4 from 1-3 p.m. Free admission, donations accepted. Visit www. gibsongallery.org for more info on adult and children’s art classes. Gallery located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Open ThursdaySunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners required Monday-Friday from 2-4 p.m. to mop floors and to clean bathrooms, countertops, tables, carts, etc. Dishwashers needed Monday-Friday 1-3 p.m. to wash dishes, pots and pans. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Commitment is one day or more per week, on a regular basis. If interested or for more info, send e-mail to aburgmission@yahoo.com.

FREE COMMUNITY MEALS; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. Everyone welcome. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is also showing “The Chosen” every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., after the meal. Free to attend, everyone welcome. Church is located at 266 King St. in Amherstburg (entrance off of Gore St.).

ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. Meetings held at The Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild wants to invite guests/new members to attend our monthly meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North Woodslee at 7 p.m. Our purpose is to promote and encourage the art of quilting in Essex County. 519-726-5869

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD EVENTS; Charity bingo every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Wednesday to

order call 519-734-8575. Dinner from 4:30-6 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. still has bingos every Thursday night and fish fries (with chicken as well) on Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties start back up in September.

SERVICE TIME CHANGE; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., has changed the times of their Sunday service. There is now one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.

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 Dr. across from Walmart.

GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong and bridge and line dancing. Club also crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three luncheons and a Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www. goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” and help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over

become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-9967364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with free lunch from 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 519-7369140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month until May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors welcome. We are on Facebook!

ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m.-12 noon. Closed Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood.com.

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info,

Beer Festival held in town for Hospice and Windsor-Essex Cancer Centre Foundation

Continued from Page 8

“This beer is only available for the month of April and 100 percent of the proceeds today are being donated,” said organizer Eric Robert.

Robert is a brewer with Erie St. Gastro Pub Brewery and Eatery in Windsor and on Sunday teamed with Jake’s Windsor Brew.

Robert, who has been making beer for 15 years said he was able to get a hold of the dandelion beer recipe about four years ago and this time used primarily the

dandelion root.

“I was able to get my hands on the original recipe and I tweaked it.”

Kyla Hudson made the trip to Amherstburg and after a taste said, “I think it’s delicious and it’s for a good cause.”

Hudson was joined by Madi Bourque who has served the dandelion brew to customers and said, “I’m a big fan. It’s my second time coming to this.”

While the event has been held previously, it

is the first time at G.L. Heritage, according to Desjardins-Grondin.

“It started out with local breweries reaching out to us and we jumped at the chance.”

There was live music, food and of course lots of different beer to try.

Desjardins-Grondin noted that Fine ‘N’ Dandy had a special meaning for her brewery as a family member passed away from cancer just three months before the brewery opened.

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR RENT

3-BEDROOM UPPER

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4 Piece Bathroom. Central Forced-Air Conditioning and High-Efficiency Gas Furnace. Includes Private Driveway for Parking One Vehicle. No-Smoking. Private access to Your Own Deck, within shared Rear-Yard. $2,125 Monthly, which Includes 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 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and leave a detailed message.

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation & construction experience, I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly, and with pride. Locally owned & operated. Fully insured and references available upon request. www.renovisions.ca Steve 519-300-0961

FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise. Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.

FOR SALE STEEL ENTRANCE DOOR

Prefinishe, white. Measures 79" X 35.5". With 24" X 38" glass lite. Righthand in swing. $275.00 519.736.0129

“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

POWER WASHING & PEST CONTROL

DELINE’S SERVING

AMHERSTBURG since 1988 . Making your home look new again. 519-7362448.

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 @ 519-7366096 or Doris @ 519-7348154

We are having an open house at the Harrow Legion from 1pm to 5pm on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 Please come and share stories, pictures, love and laughter with us. Best wishes only!

“Bring on the Fun!” returns to Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

Figure skaters from around southwestern Ontario were in Amherstburg over the weekend to showcase their skills.

Skate Amherstburg hosted the “Bring on the Fun!” competition both Saturday and Sunday at the Libro Centre. Skate Amherstburg president Lynn Fox said the competition lived up to its name as it was a fun way for skaters to come together as it was a low pressure competition where they could simply have a good time.

“This is our second year hosting Bring on the Fun in conjunction with Skate Ontario,” said Fox. Skaters came in not just from the Windsor-Essex County area, but from as far as Stratford to compete.

“The opportunity is to have a lot of fun and to have the opportunity to perform in front of a crowd,” said Fox.

Fox added while other competitions are more pressure filled, “Bring on the Fun!” was a way for skaters to gain experience. While there were experienced, more seasoned skaters in the competition, there were younger skaters getting a chance to try their hand at what a competition is about.

There were about 350 competitors, Fox said, adding an estimate that about 25 skaters or so were from Amherstburg. Skaters ranged in age from ten to 16-years-old and competed in individual, pairs and

group routines.

Skate Amherstburg hopes to bring the competition back to Amherstburg for a third straight year next year.

“It’s a lot of work but it’s a lot of fun,” she said. The competition represented the end of the figure skating season and “it’s a really fun way to do that.” She said Skate Amherstburg was happy to present the competition and host the skaters.

“It’s exciting to see,” said Fox.

Lifetime Achievement Awards presented at AMHA banquet

Continued from Page 11

In addition to coaching and mentoring his daughter and son, he worked as part of the AMHA discipline committee from 2006 to the present.

Pettypiece has also been involved with the South Windsor Skating Club, the Sun Parlour Female Hockey Association, leading local hockey schools, the South County Predators Girls Hockey Association and girls hockey teams at General Amherst High School and North Star High School.

“His resume of volunteerism dwarfs just about everyone out there, giving 50 years of his life to this great game,” said Ewer.

Ewer credited Paul Tonietto with providing calm, direct feedback to anyone needing support, adding that Tonietto has a demeanor that makes bad news seem not so bad.

“While he was a calming influence in the board meetings and as a person, he was fiercely competitive and always pushing to make AMHA one of the best centres around,” said Ewer.

Like most, Tonietto got involved when he his children started playing and would join the board as tyke convenor. He would become fundraising director and helped expand fundraising options for travel teams “to help lessen the financial burden on the families.” He also became vice president of travel.

“During his time at the helm of the AMHA program, we saw countless team wins of Bluewater titles and tournament wins,” said Ewer. “Even more impressively, during his time, AMHA saw seven OMHA championship banners hoisted into the rafters. Also during this time, AMHA saw three OHF provincial championship banners head up to the ceiling with win from the midget major team twice and bantam major

once. While he may not have been on the bench for these victories, they are a direct result of his passion for winning and empowering the coaches and players to be successful and produce winning campaigns.”

Ewer said Tonietto was instrumental for changing policies to get kids more playing time.

Dennis Emerson was described as being the “epitome of volunteerism” and has been a non-parent coach for most of his coaching career and a member of the AMHA board. He has been involved with AMHA in a number of roles for 23 years, said Ewer, coaching at all levels of house league and travel, sometimes coaching two or more teams at once to help the players and the organization.

“He has won tournaments, Bluewater championships, two red hats (OMHA championships) and everything in between,” said Ewer, “but what he always did was put the kids first and make himself available to offer the knowledge he had while always being positive and ensuring his players had a lot of fun playing for him.”

Emerson also aided in player development as well as coach development, from managing learning to skate programs to checking clinics and more. Ewer said he wanted to ensure younger coaches were developed and now coaches with his son in AMHA. Emerson also was key in bringing a juvenile team back to Amherstburg and won an OMHA championship with them. Emerson “represents all that is good about volunteering and you will very often see him with a big smile on his face because he constantly exudes positivity and that rubs off on his players,” said Ewer.

Memorial Awards went to players in all divisions including: U9 Novice Major – Bruno

Sinasac, Edith Mary

March 1st, 1936 - April 17th, 2025

Edith Mary Sinasac passed away peacefully at the age of 89. Beloved wife of Lynwood Sinasac. Loving mother of Kelly Riva (Angelo) and Geoffrey Sinasac. Proud grandmother of Nicholas Riva (Sara), Nathan Riva, and Natalie Riva, Kirbylee Sinasac, and Duncan Sinasac, and Conor Kelly. Cherished great-grandmother of Clara Riva, Gammalee Sinasac, and Charlie Sinasac. Survived by her siblings Patricia Brush, Kathleen Jubenville (Robert), Tim Kelly (Carol), Francis Marontette, Roseanne Laramie (Gary), Colleen Reid (Peter), John Kelly (Elaine), Mary Jane Gomes, and Tom Kelly (Michelle). Predeceased by her son Kevin Sinasac, her sister Sally Russelo, and her parents Dallas and Rosemary Kelly.

Casanova Award (Outstanding Effort throughout the Season) –Landon Hotts

U10 Atom Minor – Kevin McDonough Award (Outstanding Effort throughout the Season) – A.J. Esipu

U11 Atom Major – Kevin McDonough Award (Outstanding Effort throughout the Season) – Luka Premrl & Connor Buchanan

U12 Pee Wee Minor – Mark Whitehead Award (Outstanding Effort throughout the Season) –Keaven Campbell

U13 Pee Wee Major – Mark Whitehead Award (Outstanding Effort throughout the Season) –Brock Racette

U14 Bantam Minor – Dannie Pietrangelo Award (Outstanding Effort throughout the Season) –Bradden Armaly

U15 Bantam Major – Bill Jones Award (Positive Attitude and Giving 100% in Practices and Games) –Porter Triolet

U16 Midget Minor – Michael Bastien Award (Outstanding Dedication throughout the Season) –Nick Gray

U16 Midget Minor – Jimmy Brooks Award (Outstanding Defensive Play throughout the Season) – Cody Lavigne.

U21 Juvenile – Outstanding Dedication to Hockey Throughout the Season – Broyden Hebert

The night concluded with Ewer stating while AMHA is ending, something new is beginning.

“I am excited about our future. We have wonderful partners in our friends from Erie who have the same goals and ambitions we do,” he said. “We have doubled the number of volunteers working to make our association one of the best in Ontario. Those who stay with us will be a part of it and all of the success we’re going to have.”

Edith taught elementary school in London for over 30 years. She was a demanding teacher and tutor, who put her student’s success first and loved watching them progress and excel. Cremation has taken place. At Edith’s request, there will be no services. A donation to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

(John T. Donohue Funeral Home)

APARTMENT FOR RENT: NEW RENO

Don’t miss seeing this newly renovated 1 bdrm + 1 bath unit in the heart of Amherstburg at 46 Indiana Place overlooking Purdy Park. Open concept kitchen with white quartz countertops, walk-in pantry, island and all stainless steel appliances overlooks dining room and living room with large gas fireplace. Porcelain tiles throughout for easy cleaning. All newer windows, blinds and doors. Hi-effec furnace, AC and instantaneous hot water. Comfortable bedroom with large closet. In-suite laundry with washer/dryer/sink. Large 3pc bath with fibreglass tub. Yard has new concrete patio with veg patch. 2 car parking available. April 1, 2025 possession date. Asking $1750 per month plus utilities. Must see! You won’t be disappointed. Text Gus at 519-566-3070 for an appointment to see this gem!

Teagan Harris performs during the “Bring on the Fun!” skating competition held last weekend at the Libro Centre.

MAY

Take a Spring stroll on the trail at the Libro Centre Attention Businesses Join us for Economic Development Network Event on May 13th Yard Waste North Zone

Yard Waste South Zone

Yoga @ the Libro 9:30am – 10:30am $5/person $4/senior Amerstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting Town Hall 5pm amherstburg ca/beactive

Drop-in Pilates 9:30am – 10:15am $5/ person (Infants welcome)

10:30am – 11:15am $5/ person or $4/senior (Adults only)

Bench & Tree Commemorations are now being accepted amherstburg ca/ commemorative or call 519-736-5712

Monday May 5, 2025 Parks Master Plan Park Summit Open House #2 at the Libro Centre Community room 2:30pm-7:30pm Happy Victoria Day! MunicipalOffices & the Libro Centre will be closed today! Monday, May 19 garbage and yard waste (North) will be collected today 519-736-3664