

By Ron Giofu
A look back at military eras gone by returned to Fort
Historic Site of Canada over the weekend.
The Living History Festival was held Saturday and Sunday with encampments, musket firings, artillery demonstrations,
fashion shows, bagpipe shows, cooking demonstrations and more over the two days.
Alex Dale, interpretative officer with Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada, said they also had a number of different community groups on hand as well, with the Marsh Historical Collection, Gibson Gallery, Amherstburg Freedom Museum, Park House Museum, Canadian Transportation Museum, Caldwell First Nation cited as some of the examples. Debra Honor was also on hand selling her book “The Lives That Touched Belle Vue Amherstburg.”
“It’s all sorts of different times periods,” said Dale. “It’s all over the whole site.”
A “river battle” between re-enactment groups with ships on the water “firing” at troops on land before storming onto the grounds where a battle took place was another highlight.
A War of 1812 naval group chose Fort Malden this year, Dale explained, the first time Fort Malden has been part of it in roughly 20 years.
“They pick a site every year to do the School of the Sailor,” he said. “The boats will try to advance. We’ll have to repel them.”
While the site and the event focuses on military history, the festival morphed into the “Living History” festival as they also show such crafts as cooking, cobblers and more.
“We have re-enactors coming from eastern Ontario, driving seven or eight hours, just to get here,” said Dale.
Re-enactors enjoy dressing in period attire and educating the public, he added.
“We plan all year for it,” he said. “It’s a lot of work. A lot of what we do in the winter is plan events.”
Continued on Page 15
By Ron Giofu
It was a day filled with tears, laughter and gratitude as Community Living Essex County (CLEC) bid farewell to its executive director last week.
Colleagues, friends and family of Karen Bolger gathered at the Ciociaro Club last Thursday evening to celebrate her retirement from the organization after a stellar 40-year career. Bolger started off her career as a support worker, worked her way up the ranks and was the agency’s executive director for the last seven years.
Bolger thanked her co-workers, the board of directors, partner agencies, friends and her family for the support she received over the last 40 years. She admitted to being “happy and sad at the same time,” and that while she knew she would retire one day, it always seemed to be well into the future.
“For me, the journey has been all about the relationships and growing together,” she said.
The types of relationships that have been highlights for Bolger include those between the staff, the people they support and the families. She said she entered her career full of hope and is leaving with lifelong memories.
“I am proud of what we accomplished,” said Bolger. “I know the future of the agency is in good hands.”
Bolger expressed her gratitude to everyone she worked for or alongside during her 40-year career.
“Thank you for letting me be a part of your lives,” she said. “You have changed mine forever.”
Corey Dalgleish, who has moved up from the director of operations role into the executive director’s position this week upon Bolger’s retirement, told Bolger “you are leaving a legacy” that will inspire those with the organization for years to come.
“You set the bar high because the people we support deserve nothing less,” said Dalgleish.
Dalgleish was one of many to use words like compassion, kindness and steady leadership in describing Bolger, noting there have been several challenges in her seven years as executive director including leading the agency
through a global pandemic.
“I can’t think of anyone else that would have been a perfect fit to be here,” said Dalgleish. “You’ve led with your hard work, dedication and unquestionable dedication. You leave with our utmost respect, admiration and sincere gratitude and appreciation.”
Sandra Paisley, manager of Community Living supports, represented CLEC’s leadership team and presented Bolger with several gifts. She recalled working with Bolger early in her career when Bolger went from residential to vocational supports. Bolger kept moving up in the agency
and Paisley said it was “an amazing 40 years.”
Julie LaSorda, director of marketing and innovation with CLEC, recalled how her relationship with Bolger developed since LaSorda joined the agency in 2008. She noted Bolger’s kindness, dedication, leadership skills and willingness to stand up for her positions, even when it went against the grain.
“She truly wants the best for the people we support, their families and the people in her life,” said LaSorda. “Karen has a huge heart.”
CLEC board chair Chad Sutherland presented Bolger with a retirement gift from the board as well as an honourary life membership, the latter being an honour rarely bestowed. Sutherland said it was hard to believe how quickly time went by between when Bolger announced her intention to retire to her actual retirement date.
Sutherland added Bolger has had “40 remarkable years” with Community Living Essex Couty and said it was a great milestone. He praised her strength, passion and commitment to the agency and that her time as executive director saw even more inclusivity and innovation.
“You leave behind not only a positive legacy but an excellent example for us to follow,” he said.
Community Living Essex County supports over 700 people with intellectual disabilities and their families. For more information, visit www. communitylivingessex.org or call 519-776-6483.
courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection 80 Richmond Street Amherstburg 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org
on rocks along the Detroit River close to Fort Malden. The Price family kept Vinmar Lodge until Vincent was in his late teens.
By Fred Groves
Nick certainly lived up to his reputation - bringing you back in time.
The 16-year-old may be a novice when it comes to performing, but he certainly wowed an enthusiastic crowd Saturday afternoon at AmherstPalooza.
Donned in a pink jumpsuit and sporting Elvis-style sideburns, he was one of more than a dozen acts that performed on the stage in front of the clock in downtown Amherstburg. It was part of Open Air Weekends and supported by Musicland in Amherstburg.
“Getting out here and doing this really drives me,” Nick said to the audience.
AmherstPalooza began at noon with vocalist Rebecca Mickle and went well into the night. Some of the entertainers such as Norm Gemus are seasoned veterans while others, like Nick were just getting their musical feet wet.
“ I started performing about two years ago and have been playing the piano for three months,” said Nick.
That might be hard for a lot of people to believe as his opening numbers had his fingers jumping off the keyboards as
he performed some classic 50’s hits by Jerry Lee Lewis including “Great Balls of Fire.”
What the young performer lacks in experience, he certainly made up for in enthusiasm. His personality was genuine and his charismatic style had everyone who listened in wanting more. Perhaps most unique about Nick is his individual style.
“Having the energy of the crowd really gets me going.”
When speaking with the River Town Times after his 30-minute set, which included playing the guitar and doing a couple of Elvis covers, he said that he is a big fan of such artists as Elvis Presley and Prince and any others who bring a strong stage presence.
“People who have good careers are doing something different,” said Nick. Nick said he was a bit nervous coming to perform in Amherstburg but he was supported by his mother who is an artist
and his father who is a musician.
Saturday’s music spectacular drew crowds throughout the day and night and brought a wide-range of talent including Mickle who performed in front of some of her hometown fans.
“I have always had a big love for musicals and Disney movies,” said Mickle. She is professionally trained as a singer and has a degree from the University of Windsor in classical music and her master’s degree from Wayne State University. Her voice had an operatic tone to it.
“I’ve never sang opera here but if they asked me to, I would.”
One of the toughest things for any singer to do is not to get caught up in the words, a dry-throat is not something they want to experience when up on stage.
“It has happened. I just keep going and make sure I am hydrated between songs.”
This year’s AmherstPalooza also gave many a chance to hear a new emerging group, Compass Rose. Based in Amherstburg and including members of Harbouring Illusions, their style is a mixture of folk, rock and country.
A man was arrested by the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment last week during a police investigation, the Windsor Police Service states.
Police say that on July 29 at roughly 1:30 p.m., officers were involved in an active investigation which led them to the 300 block of Victoria St. S. They located a male who was wanted for allegedly failing to comply with release conditions. The accused, a 38-year-old male, was arrested and held for a court appearance, police add. —All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment
As part of the “Unleashed” art tour portion of the recent Amherstburg Art Crawl, gift cards were won by those who went on the tour and had their “passports” signed. The “Unleashed” tour was sponsored by Sobeys Amherstburg and $25, $50 and $100 gift cards were presented to the winners July 29. Jill Beaudoin, who won the $100 gift card, donated her winnings to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. Sobeys franchise owners Rick and Krista Truant (left) and Art Amherstburg Society (presenters of the art crawl) board member Bonnie Deslippe present gift cards to $25 winner Jim (pictured) & Karen Mendel, mission president Tim McAllister (with the $100 gift card) and $50 gift card winner Luane Faucher.
An Amherstburg male has been arrested and charged following a joint operation involving the Windsor Police Service, North Bay Police Service and several OPP units.
The accused in this incident is a 28-year-old male who North Bay police say is charged with trafficking in a Schedule I Substance – Cocaine, Flight from Peace Officer, Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance and Fail to Comply with Probation Order.
According to a news release from the North Bay Police Service, on July 29 at approximately 7:15 p.m., North Bay police were contacted by the Windsor Police Service in connection to an active investigation. The accused also had an outstanding warrant from a previous North Bay incident regarding allegations of Flight from a Peace Officer and
Trafficking in a Schedule I Substance – Cocaine.
The North Bay Police Service Street Crime Unit located the accused in the city of North Bay. When officers attempted to stop and contain his vehicle using two police cruisers, the accused allegedly rammed the vehicles and fled the scene.
Assistance was requested from the OPP Uniform Patrol (Burk’s Falls Detachment), Emergency Response Team (ERT), and Canine Unit.
According to the North Bay Police Service news release, the accused was located and arrested without further incident by Parry Sound OPP and then transported back to North Bay, where he was formally charged.
The accused was held in custody and appeared for a Show Cause bail hearing, police add.
This week is the 30th anniversary of the River Town Times.
This newspaper started against an older, established newspaper known as The Amherstburg Echo in 1995 and throughout the last three decades, the RTT has had different owners (including founders Karen Morrell, Rusty Brown and Ryan Deslippe and its first editor Adrian Harte), publishers, editors, reporters, sales representatives, graphic designers, carriers, office managers, and other staff members and supporters.
We, namely Laura and Dominic D’Alessandro and myself, have an ad thanking our readers and advertisers on Page 6 of this week’s issue, but I figured a milestone like this deserves another mention on top of that.
Our readers and our advertisers are greatly appreciated and the importance of your loyalty and support can’t be understated.
We hope you enjoy the “retro” look of this week’s masthead. Our usual logo will return, but we turned back the clock and are using the first-ever masthead ever published by the River Town Times.
My personal journey includes a stop at the River Town Times very early in my career, though the early part of my career
is predominantly tied to the Echo. As an Echo freelance reporter and intern from St. Clair College in late 1994 into 1995, there was a break in my ties to the Echo in the middle part of that year.
In the second issue of the River Town Times, published Aug. 15, 1995, I had a pair of stories in it before I went back to the Echo where I stayed in various forms until the paper was shuttered in October 2012.
In that two-paper era, I was able to get to know some of the staff including my editorial and sales colleagues at the RTT and develop lasting friendships.
There are many others that have been integral parts of this operation as well as the current staff but I would need about four pages to list them all. I don’t want to miss anyone as anyone who has passed through the doors of the River Town Times, regardless of where our office has been located in Amherstburg, as their contributions have been extremely
valuable. I apologize if I should name someone and didn’t, but I’m just fearful of accidentally omitting someone. Just know you are all appreciated!
I was fortunate enough to be able to join the RTT in late 2012 with Karen, Peggy and the staff at that time.
Ownership has changed a couple of times since I’ve been here. That latter time saw me be fortunate enough to join the ownership group with Laura and Dominic. I consider myself fortunate to be able to count them as friends as well, some of the many I’ve made along this journey. I am just a small cog in this paper that motors along every week so I am fortunate to be surrounded by the team here at the RTT. I hope this column doesn’t make it sound like this place is all about me and my career, because it’s very far from it. It takes a team to get this paper to press and online every week, and I am just one team member.
In addition to Laura and Dominic, I’d like to thank our current group that are helping each and every week such as graphic designer Matthew Zaidan, our freelance reporters Fred Groves, Donna Tuckwell and Hailey Zimmerman, our proofreader Ian Phillips, our drivers Louise and Ashley, and the many others
that play a part in this whole operation.
In between the initial ownership and us, the River Town Times was owned by Southpoint Publishing out of Leamington.
The latter company, headed by Jim Heyens, still operates the Southpoint Sun newspaper.
I’d like to think I am doing much of the same job as I was when the Echo closed, trying to get to as much in the community as I can. We work out of the office, currently located in the Heritage Square plaza at 80 Richmond St., Monday through Friday and we put a lot of time and effort into delivering the community the best product we can. We hope we are doing our predecessors proud as we know a lot of work went into the River Town Times before we got here.
The newspaper industry is challenging these days but we’re working hard and continuing to print our paper every Wednesday and publish it online. The support from the community has been tremendous and we emphasize that we are thankful for that. There is still a place for local news and we don’t take our responsibility in delivering that lightly.
We look forward to serving this great community for many more years to come. Who’s up for another 30 years?
• Letters must stay within 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 libel/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.
•Letters printed in the River Town Times do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper, staff or ownership.
By Ron Giofu
Three more ribbon cuttings have been celebrated over the past week.
Two of them occurred within a one-hour period last Saturday afternoon. The first grand opening was at Pantry Heaven & Co., located within the Walmart plaza at 400 Sandwich St. S.
Owner Marieka Doornbos said the idea came from buying freeze dried strawberries in the U.S. Wanting to bring that here, she purchased a machine but still had a lot of product leftover.
There was also a desire to help those with dietary restrictions and who want to be gluten-free. After research, she wanted to bring in products to help those who needs them.
There are products other local small businesses often sell at markets and Doornbos said she wanted to support them as well.
“I can give them a spot in the store six days per week,” said Doornbos.
Pantry Heaven & Co. actually opened to the public June 30 and she added things are going well thus far.
“Everyone has been amazing,” she said. “We have products you can’t get anywhere else.”
Doornbos said some have had to turn to Amazon for some products but “now you can come into the store and grab it.”
Pantry Heaven & Co. is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Golden Oven European Bakery opened shortly after that, with it being the first day for the new bakery.
Owners Ablahad Abro and his wife Sonja noted it was their second location, the first being in Windsor. They will also soon open a third location, back in Windsor.
Abro stated Amherstburg is “a nice town” and they have always wanted to open in Amherstburg. They sell a variety of baked goods, from croissants to macaroons and more, and now have coffee, milkshakes and more. The name “Golden Oven” comes from a desire to offer “very high quality products,” Abro stated.
“Amherstburg is a great place because people shop local and they support local,” he said.
They are open Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sunday 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Mayor Michael Prue thanked both businesses for opening and having faith in the community
“You know what you want and you went out and got it,” he said at the Golden Oven opening.
Stating the town is “booming,” Prue said he is regularly cutting ribbons.
“Every single week I’m cutting a ribbon somewhere,” he said.
At the opening of the Pantry Heaven & Co., he added “we admire you and your family for what you are doing.”
The Gentleman’s Reserve Barber Co. opened July 25 with the ribbon cutting for the new shop being last Friday afternoon. Owner Dean Cahill will be cutting the bulk of the hair to start and plans to expand to up to four staff members once they get the business off the ground.
Cahill thanked his wife Martha and his family as well as everyone who contributed to get the business open. He noted they lived in LaSalle but his wife wanted to move
to Amherstburg. After they relocated to Amherstburg, the original plan was to open a barbershop in 2020 but the COVID-19 pandemic derailed that plan.
Cahill worked in Tecumseh for ten years and was encouraged to revisit the idea of opening a barbershop.
“Amherstburg is a great town,” he said. “This town has a great vibe. There is a great nightlife and great restaurants. There’s a great business atmosphere here.”
The downtown location at 274 Dalhousie St. – in the Queen Charlotte development – was something Cahill said he was pleased with being among other businesses and also liked the size of the unit.
Cahill added he has been cutting hair for 35 years. They are open from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit their social media sites or visit www.thegentlemansreservebarberco.com. Appointments are preferred.
Prue noted that he says similar remarks at every ribbon cutting he attends, but he does wish every business that he helps open all the best.
Prue voiced optimism about the town’s business community and pointed out a number of businesses in the Dalhousie St. area came out to support The Gentleman’s Reserve. He also pointed out the view of King’s Navy Yard Park the business has.
Whenever a storefront becomes available, another business moves in within weeks, Prue said.
As the River Town Times celebrates 30 years in business, we want to take a moment to sincerely thank everyone who has helped us reach this milestone.
From our original founders to the many carriers, sales representatives, editors, graphic designers, and proofreaders over the past three decades—your hard work and dedication have shaped the RTT into what it is today.
Our work would not be possible without the unwavering support of our community. To our loyal readers and valued clients: thank you for putting your trust in us to deliver upto-date local news each week. We are continually humbled by the faith you place in us.
Thank you, Amherstburg!
We look forward to continuing this legacy for years to come.
speakerseriesandamentorshipprogram–wascompletedasall$39,000wasraisedwhiletheCarnegieLibraryRefreshachievedits$40,000fundraisingtarget.The
muralsandotherupgrades. “We’relookingatagreatstartto2020,”saidPeddie.
By RTT Staff
A local man is over $103,000 richer after a successful lottery ticket purchase.
The OLG announced last Wednesday that Cody Northgrave of Amherstburg “can ‘find his possible’ after winning a Lotto 6/49 second prize worth $103,242.40 in the May 17, 2025 Lotto 6/49 draw.”
The OLG stated that Northgrave is a chef and has been playing the lottery with OLG for nearly 15 years.
“He enjoys playing Lotto 6/49 and Lottario, using OLG’s Quick Pick feature to make his selections. Picking up a ticket once a week has become a fun part of his routine. Now, the 37-yearold is delighted to share the story of his first big win!” the OLG stated in a press release.
“One morning, before grabbing a
coffee, I scanned my ticket using the OLG app on my phone,” Cody recalled, while visiting the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto to claim his winnings. “I was shocked looking at the prize amount — it was unbelievable!”
Northgrave asked his wife to doublecheck his ticket on her phone, just to be sure it was real.
“She was very excited and happy,” he told the OLG with a smile.
Later on, Northgrave shared the wonderful news with other members of his family.
“They’re all overjoyed for me,” he beamed. “Being a winner is a unique feeling. It feels so great and exciting.”
With his winnings, Cody plans to take a vacation and save for the future.
The winning ticket was purchased at Lynn’s Variety on Richmond St. in Amherstburg.
By Ron Giofu
Emancipation Day took a bit of a different turn this year but the events surrounding it that mark the anniversary of the day slavery in Canada was abolished still took place.
The Amherstburg Freedom Museum held Emancipation Day events last Friday, with Aug. 1 being the actual day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect.
Curator Mary-Katherine Whelan pointed out the museum was open from 12 noon to 8 p.m. last Friday free-of-charge to allow people to come in, view documentary film screenings, have guided tours or just take a look at the exhibits on their own.
Whelan said they had visitors from as far as Kentucky and Trinidad.
“We’ve been really busy,” said Whelan. “It’s a great day to celebrate and bring awareness. A lot of people may not know about Emancipation Day.”
Events at the museum were part of Emancipation Day events that lasted throughout the Civic Holiday weekend. Many were done in conjunction with the Black Council of Windsor-Essex.
Museum hours were extended to allow people to come in for Emancipation Day, Whelan added.
Emancipation Day is usually the subject of a gala put on by the museum, but with it being the museum’s 50th
anniversary, a gala will be held Sept. 20 to celebrate that this year. Bishop Paul S. Morton will be the keynote speaker that night, with the banquet being held at the Caboto Club in Windsor.
“We’re expecting long-time supporters of the museum. It’s welcome to everyone and open to the public,” said Whelan. “It’s a celebration of Black history in Amherstburg as well as museum founders Melvin ‘Mac’ Simpson and his wife Betty.”
Whelan added: “Amherstburg became a hub of Underground Railroad activity because of its proximity to the United States. We welcome everyone to come to the museum to discover that history. It’s really important to learn that history. Black history is Canadian history.”
Tickets for the 50th anniversary gala are $500 for VIP, $300 for partners, $175 for supporter level and $125 for general admission. For information, visit www.amherstburgfreedom.org/50th-Gala, e-mail curator@amherstburgfreedom.org or call 519-736-5433.
The museum, the River Bookshop and the Windsor Film Society teamed up for a screening of the movie “12 Years A Slave” in the Hole in the Wall last Wednesday night.
Following the two-hour film, there was a panel discussion featuring museum assistant curator Irene MooreDavis, founder/CEO of the Windsor International Black Film Festival Queen Amina and Windsor International Black Film Festival president Christie Nelson.
Moore-Davis said it was “a powerful reminder of what our ancestors experienced” and said that story still needs to be told openly and honestly.
Amina said she grew up in Africa and they were never taught what their ancestors experienced after they arrived in North America. She said the Black film festival is a way to share their stories and Nelson added it is also a way to celebrate the efforts of Black filmmakers.
The festival runs Aug. 15-17 at the Armories Theatre at 353 Freedom Way in Windsor. More information is at www.wibff.com.
Nelson also recalled a trip to Ghana and getting an idea of what it must have been like to have families separated and learning horrific stories of what was experienced during the slave trade era.
The Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show saw over 580 vehicles registered and thousands stream through the streets of Amherstburg.
While there were a lot of cars and trucks to choose from, the judges narrowed it down to the following awards. The official list was obtained by the River Town Times after last week’s issue had already gone to press. The website story has been updated.
Best of Show (Paulie Award) - Mark Dimilo -1970 Plymouth Cuda - Leamington
Mayors Choice - John Milligan - 1952 Ford Sunliner - Windsor
Sweet Seventy - Bob Galli - 1970 Chevrolet C10 pickup - Tecumseh
Nifty Fifty - Gino Delciancio -1955 Chevrolet BelAir - Leamington
Coolest Ragtop - Steven Heinrich - 1955 Chevrolet BelAir - Beverly Hills, Michigan
Best Original - Kathy Ouellette -1960 Ford Thunderbird - Ruthven
Sexy Sixty - Ken Ouellette - 1966 Pontiac GTO - Ruthven
Best Ford - Larry Newport - 1968 Ford Torino - Cottam
Memory of Dino Gobbo – Luca & Rose Policella -1969 Pontiac GTO
Best Mopar - Russ Banks - 1969 Plymouth Road Runner Hemi - Windsor
Special Interest - David Nantais - 1959 Morris J-2
Custom Van - Woodslee
Classic Cruiser - John Ouellette - 1956 Chevrolet BelAir - Kitchener
Best Corvette - Dave Damm 1969 Chevrolet Corvette - LaSalle
Best GM - Joe Maracci - 1968 Chevrolet Camaro - Leamington
Best Truck - Dwayne Charette - 1969 Ford BroncoSouth Woodslee
The Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show was July 27.
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to eyes.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, if you long to take your romantic relationship to the next level, this might be the week to focus on your feelings. Your partner may be waiting for you to make a move.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Tranquility you have been feeling of late enables you to listen more attentively to your inner self, Taurus. Take advantage of slow times to evaluate events and make important decisions.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
You can look forward to an enjoyable week, Gemini. Career issues or family matters are nothing to worry about right now, as everything seems to be moving along smoothly.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
This week you may find satisfaction that will put a smile on your face and boost morale. You also may find yourself embracing some of the core values that have been a part of your life.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, others may have been asking questions of you since you’ve uncharacteristically been out of the limelight. Reveal what you want to share. Even you are allowed your secrets.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
You have a tendency to avoid conflict instead of facing things head on, Virgo. If you’ve been circumventing something that needs attention, it is time to see it through.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, if you feel that your power has increased, it may be time to take on some more responsibility right now. Embrace your new role and remain confident in your ability to handle it.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, right now you are going through a period where circumstances are trying to shed light on your hidden motivations. But you’re not ready to show everyone your cards just yet.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, your ego may take a hit this week, but you’ll need to roll with the punches. You are finally understanding that simply willing something to happen won’t always work.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Your actions lately have been going against your nature to want to please others, Capricorn. It will be difficult for you to get back on target, but not impossible.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
It is becoming evident that you might need to bring in a little extra help on a situation that has been brewing for some time, Aquarius. Figure out who you can trust and go from there.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Your powers of concentration and self-discipline are impressive, Pisces. There are lessons that others can learn about these admirable traits if you’re willing to share.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
AUGUST 3 - Martha Stewart, Entrepreneur (84)
AUGUST 4 Barack Obama, Politician (64)
AUGUST 5 - Jesse Williams, Actor (44)
AUGUST 6 - Michelle Yeoh, Actress (63)
AUGUST 7 - Jalen Hurts, Athlete (27)
AUGUST 8 - Roger Federer, Athlete (44)
AUGUST 9 - Anna Kendrick, Actress (40)
By Fred Groves
Since 1947, the Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp in Harrow has provided the youth of the area an opportunity that they might not otherwise be able to enjoy.
Nestled in a secluded area on County Road 50, it has continued to grow throughout the decades and now welcomes hundreds of campers each year.
Essex MPP Anthony Leardi paid a visit to the camp last Tuesday to officially see what a huge grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been used for.
“It’s gratifying to see this camp is continuing. Everyone should be proud of this,” said Leardi.
The Sunshine Point Camp was the recipient of a $198,400 grant which was used to put a large addition onto the staff bunkhouse.
According to Dan Inverarity, Kiwanis past president and fundraising/camp chairperson, the addition will help ease a bit of tension that was being experienced by the staff.
“The problem we had was we were doubling up bunking staff. Now we have five more bedrooms. They work 14 hours a day. This is a major improvement,” said Inveraity. He gave a quick tour of the project to the River Town Times which revealed not only the five single bedrooms but a nurses room and storage facilities.
“When we shut down in the fall we have so much stuff we have to secure.”
Inveraity said there are 20 staff members who provide a camping
Sponsored By
experience for about 60 youth per week. It stretches for seven weeks running through the months of July and August.
Campers get to enjoy the pool, play games, have campfires and as presented last week, some great barbecue lunches.
“When we hit our maximum number of campers (66) the staff get pretty tired. It’s a lot of work,” he said.
The camp does provide financial assistance. It is located on five acres near Lake Erie and each camp goes for six days and five nights.
Inverarity has been a dedicated director of the Sunshine Point Camp for a decade and his work was recognized by Leardi.
Anyone wishing more information about the camp can contact sunshinepointcamp@gmail.com.
By Fred Groves
They called it The Paddle Clash. The Amherstburg Pickleball Association (APA) went up against the Tecumseh Pickleball Association (TPA) in ladies pickleball action.
The two organizations went paddleto-paddle in an outdoor tournament at the new courts at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg last Saturday.
“It’s beautiful weather and I am playing with my friends. It’s a club versus club battle,” said Dawn Elliott of the APA.
While the games may have been competitive in spirit, there was a lot of fun as well.
Elliott’s team white shirt had an interesting message on it which kind of summed up the day’s event – Playing Pickleball Improves the Memory. What’s the Score? Who Just Served? Are you 1 or 2?
Similar to the recent men’s tournament which pitted APA versus visiting Tecumseh players known as the Paddle
Up Battle League (PUBL), it was a chance to show off some fine skills in a game that continues to grow in
popularity.
“It’s definitely growing and there is a lot of interest. We are getting a lot of young people,” said one of the day’s organizers Renee Rupert.
Rupert said, and it was evident on one of the other courts on Saturday, that the sport is enjoyed by younger players and Rupert said they are showing interest as young as seven-years-old.
What is hoped to be an annual event saw the ladies from Tecumseh come out as the day’s winners and similar to the men’s event there were 12 players from each association.
“It’s a mixed format. They started playing doubles for five games and then they have four-person teams go against four from the other association,” explained Rupert.
The new outdoor courts at the Libro Centre opened in June and offer one of the best outdoor facilities in Southwestern Ontario.
By Ron Giofu
Not only was a new maintenance barn at Pointe West Golf Club celebrated over the weekend, but it served as a way to help to area charities.
Pointe West held a “Barn Bash” recently with a ribbon cutting at the new maintenance barn that included contests and hors d’oeuvres followed by dinner at the clubhouse. Proceeds raised during the
evening will benefit Hiatus House and the Women’s Welcome Centre.
Jane Gollmer, a member of the ladies’ league at Pointe West, said they had been monitoring the progress of the new maintenance barn’s construction and decided to do something when it was complete. They already support the two charities with raffles and clothing drives so the concept of a “Barn Bash” where everyone could contribute came out of it.
“This time, it’s for everyone,” said Gollmer. Gollmer added about 90 people were expected for the dinner, stating that is a good number of members that agreed to attend. Two competitions at the maintenance barn were a chipping contest from a temporarily created tee box as well as a contest where everyone who hit the green was entered into a draw for a prize.
“It’s been a lot of fun,” said Gollmer. “It’s kind of a unique thing.”
The dinner featured barbecued food, entertainment and a line dancing demonstration, she added.
Club president Peter McMahon noted golf course superintendent Matt Erickson was working out of an older barn that was originally built in 1910. The land where the course is located was once known as the Turner farm.
Pointe West Golf Club was officially formed in 1989.
“We finally got it done,” he said of the new maintenance barn. “This is a nice addition.”
McMahon added the “club is growing like crazy” and said the celebration was also a fundraiser for the two worthy causes.
The Essex Vocal Express returned to the Waterfront Ice Cream Parlour Saturday night to entertain the crowd. The public was able to enjoy some ice cream and the singing talents of the local group. The music organization is based out of Windsor and Essex County with members who enjoy singing barbershop style.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 10
INSPIRE CHANGE FUN FESTIVAL; Presented by Feeding Windsor-Essex by New Song Church. Held at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St. from 12-5 p.m. Food, games, fun and more. Everyone welcome. All proceeds will support the programs of Feeding Windsor-Essex.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 10
CRAFT SHOW & BAKE SALE; Craft show and baked goods at Wildwood Golf & RV Resort, 11112 11th Concession, McGregor. Put on by the Wildwood Social Club. Runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free parking and admission.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13
MOVIE NIGHT; The Essex County Field Naturalists Club is introducing their annual dinner with a free movie night starting at 7 p.m. at the Ojibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchett Road. The movie is “Butterflies on the Brink: The Story of the Mottled Duskywing” and it is a triumphant documentary of a group’s quest to secure the future of an endangered butterfly. Get behind the scenes look with project biologist Jessica Linton later in November. Movie is free and open to the public.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15
MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH; The August edition of Music off the Back Porch will be held from 6-8 p.m. at the rear of the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St. This month’s entertainment is Foxy Doe and Linda Girard. Free admission, donations to the Park House welcome. Weather permitting. Bring your own chair.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
MISSION GOLF TOURNAMENT; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission hosts 15th annual golf tournament at Dominion Golf & Country Club (6125 Howard Ave., LaSalle) starting at 7 a.m. with registration and 8 a.m. shotgun start. Registration $160 per golfer, includes golf, cart, lunch, dinner and prizes. Dinner only (2 p.m.) $50. Register on Eventbrite. For info, call 519-736-9140, e-mail fundraising@aburgmission.ca or visit www. aburgmission.ca
SATURDAY, AUGUST 16
CAR WASH & BBQ; Held at Rob & Tina’s No Frills (181 Sandwich St. S.) in partnership with Encounter Church. All donations going to Amherstburg Public School. Runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
ONGOING
NO FREE COMMUNITY MEALS IN SUMMER; Lighthouse Church will not be hosting the free community meal and showings of “The Chosen” in July and August. The church looks forward to seeing everyone again Sept. 4.
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; Latest exhibit is “Where Art Meets Ink,” featuring work of artist Madison Young. It runs until Aug. 17. Closing reception July 27 from 2:30-4 p.m. Free admission, donations accepted. Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Open daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Gallery is also looking for artists/artisans to join outdoor “pop-ups,” the next one scheduled for Oct. 5 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. ($30 per spot).
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners required Monday-Friday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Dishwashers needed Thursdays (and to fill in, as needed) from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Help also required to organize special events and fundraisers. If interested or for info, send e-mail to Jill at aburgmission@yahoo.com.
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 519-7348575. Dinner from 4:30-6 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road. For info, call 519-734-8575.
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) Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. parties every second Tuesday at 3 p.m. except in July and August.
SERVICE TIME; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., now has one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.
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 519-996-7364 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 519-736-9140 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 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,
MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those 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.
“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
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Buying ALL GOLD + SILVER Jewelry ALL COINS -$$$- 60 years Experience. NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES - FREE ADVICE - HONEST + DEPENDABLE SERVICE. Thurs Aug 7: Essex Railway Station, 87 Station St., Essex. Fri August 8: K of C hall, 190 Richmond St., Amherstburg. Sat Aug 16: Roma Club, 19 Seacliffe Dr E., Leamington. Cash Paid for ALL GOLD & SILVER Jewelry. All COINS; Canada, USA, Loose coins to complete collections World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets, Old paper money. FREE ESTIMATES, NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 60 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS. Always paying more than the brochures you get in the mail from the quebec company. Best to deal Local $$$. House calls also available for larger amounts Ed. 519-8181805
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We hold you close within our hearts And there you will remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again. Always missed and loved Mom, Dad, Bill, Tracey, Randy, Amy, and their families
Someone said, “God didn’t put us here for a pat on the back, but so He could be here Himself.” Kurt never wanted a pat on the back, recognition, or thanks. All he wanted to do was help people, In any and every way he could. That’s what he lived for. That’s what kept him going through all his pain and sufferings. Completely selfless. Completely awe-inspiring. I marveled at his determination to make life better for others. I will never understand the suffering. I will never accept the heartbreak. But I will always be proud and grateful to be Kurt’s mom.
Continued from Page 1
Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada is hosting its annual Murder Mystery Aug. 16 at 6 p.m. More information on that is available at www.parkscanada.ca/malden, by calling 519-736-5416 or on their social media pages.
While the Living History Festival had a charge, there is no charge for a regular visit seven days a week through Labour Day, he said.
Dale pointed out Art by the River, a Gibson Gallery event, will also be on the grounds Aug. 23-24.
Victoria Beaulieu from the Maidstone Bicentennial Museum noted they have been attending events in Amherstburg for at least 15 years.
There were nine re-enactors from that site at Fort Malden on the weekend, she said.
“We have a really good working relationship with Fort Malden,” said Beaulieu. “When we do an encampment, they come out and help us.” Beaulieu added camping at Fort Malden National Historic Site is always a highlight.
December 6, 1958- July 27, 2025
Passed away peacefully at home at the age of 66, after battling many strokes for the past 13 years and recently after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Beloved husband to Michelle Woltz (Nee Pouget). Dear father to Shawn Woltz (Carolanne Gagnon-Trottier) and Samantha Woltz. Cherished grandfather to Dawson Woltz- Raby, Ryliegh- Anne Hedgeman, Chloe Woltz, Devin Woltz, Felix Woltz and Logan Woltz. Predeceased by parents James and Elizabeth (Nee McNorton) Woltz. Brother to Margaret (Nee Woltz) Moreau (Bill Moreau). Missed by Aunt Eileen (Nee McNorton) Stuart. Son-inlaw to the late Theresa (Nee Couture) Pouget, Patrick and Patricia (Nee Warren) Pouget. Brother-in-law to Patricia Girard, (Tony) Anthony (Lori (Nee Cosens) Pouget), Tina (Nee Pouget) (the Late Bill) Lambier. Will be missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins. Ron worked in tool and die for over 35 years, his time working brought him to many different places of work including Valenite Modco Ltd, Center Tool and Mold, Signature Tool Ltd, Futura Tool Ltd, and Centerline.
Special thanks to the Hospice Team, Saint Elizabeth’s Healthcare nurses and to all PSW’s for their exceptional care of Ron.
Arrangements entrusted to JAMES H. SUTTON Funeral Home (401 Sandwich ST, S. Amherstburg, 519- 736- 2134) Cremation has taken place. As per Ron’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca.
“It’s always the nicest place to come and camp,” she said. “It works out nice,” she said. “It’s always good when groups can work together.”
More photos are on the RTT’s social media pages.
December 6, 1958- July 27, 2025
Lois Rosetta Johnson also known as “Sissy” was welcomed into the arms of our Lord on July 31, 2025, at the age of 79. Lois Rosetta Johnson (nee Wilson) was born on August 15th, 1945 in Amherstburg, Ontario to the union of the late Wauneeta and Lawrence Wilson. She was the second oldest of nine siblings. The late Lawrence Wilson Jr. (Diane), Rheta Rollins (Leroy), the late Roger Wilson, Connie Wilson, Judy Wilson, Kirby Wilson, Terence Wilson (Sharon), Teresa Wilson, and Celia Bonds (the late Eugene).
At a young age, her strong belief in Christ and her unwavering faith was her guide to showing love and grace to all. Growing up in a strong loving environment, where family was everything! She was wise beyond her years helping to care for all of her siblings and paid special attention to the younger ones. Through the years, she became the family matriarch, where her words of wisdom and continued faith- -encouraged, uplifted, and comforted those in her company. On February 5th, 1966, she married the love of her life Jerry Johnson and was married for 59 and half years. Their love story began on Boblo Island, where she worked in a souvenir shop, and her soon to be husband served as a security guard on the island. To this union three daughters and one son were born. She enjoyed spending time with her husband Jerry on long car rides across the county just to get a cup of coffee and adventurous travel across the country. Her love for travel took her and her family to many places around the world. She was an avid reader for newly released novels, which were often completed in one to two days; her favourite author was Danielle Steel. Her appreciation for literature developed into a passion for writing and reciting poetry. Often her rich velvety voice could be heard singing a traditional gospel hymn or a lullaby to the children in the family. Lois worked for Diageo, formerly known as Seagram’s in the town of Amherstburg and retired after 30 years of service. Her and her husband’s drive for entrepreneurship embarked on a business venture becoming owners and management of an apartment complex in the city of Windsor, Ontario. Her drive to maintain a safe and nurturing environment extended beyond her immediate family, where her compassion for others led to her becoming a foster parent. Lois leaves to cherish her memory, her loving husband Jerry Johnson and children; Shawntay Johnson (fiance Reggie), Jerry Johnson Jr. (fiance Shondell), Kimberly Taylor (Shawn), and Shelly Phenix (Shawn). She will be remembered as “Emma“ by her thirteen grandchildren Tamesha, Jaden, Terry, Jayda, Alayjah, Cohen, Jasmyne, Phenoix, Elijah, Xavier, Jaylee, Amara, and Alaina; and two great grandchildren, Zion, and Xavier.
Special thanks to Essex-Windsor EMS, Amherstburg fire crew, and Windsor Regional Hospital Ouellette Campus ICU. Our family would like to acknowledge with sincere appreciation and thanks for the many prayers, acts of kindness, support, visits, phone calls, and cards. The outpouring of love has done much to uplift our spirits, during this time of bereavement.
Visitation will be held Thursday August 7, 2025, at James H. Sutton Funeral Home (401 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, 519-736-2134) from 2pm - 5pm and 7pm - 9pm. Celebration of Life will be held Friday August 8, 2025 at 11am at Encounter Church (125 Alma St. Amherstburg). Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. If you so desire, memorial donations may be made to Encounter Church.
The Town of Amherstburg has contracted Laing’s Lawn Care & Pest Control for the spraying of weeds on sidewalks, boulevards, curbs and fences within the Town limits.
Please be advised that the following pesticide registered under the Pest Control Products Act (Canada) will be used for control of vegetation in these areas:
• Munger Horticultural Vinegar Plus (Acetic Acid) (Registration #29405) containing the active ingredient Acetic Acid.
This pesticide use may be used under the cosmetic pesticide ban in subsection 7.1 (1) of the Pesticides Act as the active ingredients are on the list for allowable uses for cosmetic purposes
Commencing on May 15, 2025 weather permitting and ending September 30, 2025
For more information, please call Laing’s Lawn Care & Pest Control (519) 818-5755