“Christmas at the Museum” spreads holiday cheer
By Ron Giofu
Following the
The day included a performance by The Tanner-Price Singers, who are based out of the Tanner-Price African
Methodist Church in Windsor, a church that dates back to 1852.
Also performing was the Music Ministry of New Life Fellowship. They are from the New Life Fellowship Church, formerly known as Harrison Memorial, also from Windsor.
“Events like this allow us to share our mission while highlighting the incredible gifts and talents of Black artists and entertainers in our community,” said Amherstburg Freedom Museum board member CariLynn Ristic. “For nearly five decades, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum has been a vital part of Essex County, dedicated to telling the African-Canadian story and celebrating our contributions to the broader mission.”
Ristic added the afternoon’s program “beautifully reflects that mission.” She also thanked museum curator/administrator Mary-Katherine Whelan and interim assistant curator Irene Moore Davis for their efforts in helping organize the concert while gratitude was also extended to the silent auction donors.
“Finally, a heartfelt thank you to you, our audience,” Ristic told the audience in the Nazrey AME Church. “Your support and engagement make everything possible. Because of you, we are able to preserve and share the stories of African-Canadians, inspiring visitors from across the globe through our exhibits, artifacts and cultural programming.”
Amherstburg Freedom Museum board chair Monty Logan pointed out the museum is getting close to wrapping up a milestone year.
“As the Amherstburg Freedom Museum draws its 50th anniversary to a close, we reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us here. What Mac and Betty Simpson began in 1975 created a place where people like me could find hope, dignity, and purpose, ensuring our history would no longer go untold,” said Logan. “For this extraordinary vision, we owe our founders our deepest gratitude.”
Logan added when he was a youth, the history of African-Canadians was not reflected in history books. He added ancestors fought and overcame significant challenges so people like him could experience true freedom and celebrate events like Christmas at the Museum.
Continued on Page 9
The Amherstburg Freedom Museum hosted the annual “Christmas at the Museum” last Sunday afternoon in the Nazrey AME Church. The event featured performances from the Music Ministry of New Life Fellowship Church (above) and The Tanner-Price Singers from the Tanner-Price African Methodist Church (left).
music, a reception was held in the main museum building.
Town council moves through 2026 budget, wraps up talks Tuesday
By Ron Giofu
Amherstburg town council are working through the 2026 budget deliberations at a more rapid pace than normal, with deliberations wrapping up around the noon hour Tuesday.
Town council started discussions on the capital budget Tuesday morning and, based on Strong Mayor powers, the budget has to be returned to Mayor Michael Prue. Prue has already has had his veto power reduced to zero.
The River Town Times is planning additional coverage next week and on our website to provide additional information that was not able to be printed in this issue due to our deadline.
Prue called it one of the best budget years he's experienced, noting there were disagreements but everyone remained collegial.
Entering budget deliberations, town council were looking at a 2.86 per cent tax rate increase with the first night of council discussions seeing only $1,000 removed from the budget. Day 2 saw items shuffled during capital, but little movement on the overall budget impact. That $1,000 cut was on the first issue paper council members discussed regarding council training and conference expenses.
That line item was cut from $3,500 to $2,500, with that reduction being $500 for each of the mayor and deputy mayor as they can utilize the County of Essex to cover expenses as they are also members of Essex County council.
Councillor Molly Allaire did question why $3,500 would be needed, stating council members are encouraged to borrow from one another if not all council
members are going to spend as much on council expenses like training and conferences.
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb pointed out he and Mayor Michael Prue have access to county funds, and credited Prue with the idea there be a cut in that area. Prue said when they go to such provincial conferences as ROMA and AMO and want to meet with government officials, it is better to have larger contingents from municipalities.
“I always take the money from the county,” said Prue, adding what he expenses to the town is “miniscule.”
Prue added the motion to cut the line item by $1,000 would have little impact.
“This is not going to harm us in the least and save us $1,000,” he said.
Councillor Peter Courtney said he would like to hear more from council members on what they learn at conferences and believed there should be more of a strategic approach on how many council members have to go to a conference and who goes where. Courtney indicated he would have been fine to eliminate the $3,500 increase altogether.
“To me, turn it down and leave the status quo,” he said.
Town council voted to move a $100,000 amount for a consultant’s report for the Carnegie Library from 2027 to 2026, swapping that amount for a generator at the Libro Centre. Council voted 5-2 to move that money forward, with Courtney and Councillor Diane Pouget opposed.
Allaire noted town council had previously discussed the issue and she believed the library should be looked at in its entirety.
“Are we able to do something sooner so
we can start acting on it?” she asked.
Allaire added the town has assets and “we have to maintain them.” People work in the library daily and Allaire said she is an advocate for the public library. She added ERCA did the same type of thing when they made upgrades at John R. Park Homestead.
“Let’s set up the next council so they are properly equipped to do the right thing,” she said.
Pouget agreed they have to maintain their assets but was “adamantly opposed” to the motion, as she believed the town’s facilities manager could start the process and the town could save $100,000 instead of spending it on another consultant.
Gibb said he was supportive of moving the money forward for a consultant. He said the sooner they are able to work on the building, the town could save on costs.
Gibb added the consultant could tell them exactly what is wrong and what has to be done in what order.
“We don’t know what we don’t know,” he said, adding council owes it to taxpayers to do it right. He said a heritage building can’t be repaired “on the fly.”
Councillor Linden Crain supported the move, also wanting administration to look at ways to move the $1 million earmarked for 2029 forward as well. He wanted to know if the consultant’s report would give them more precise costs. Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon said it would give the town a better idea on what items would cost, and she compared it to the Gordon House issue.
Prue said he wanted it clearly shown how money would be spent, adding he
believes the last thing a heritage building would have repaired is windows. He wanted the study to show what is needed, noting they have had costs ranging from $4-7 million to repair the building in its entirety.
Courtney said he was “consulted out” and “engineered out” and didn’t support the motion on the library. He believed the town could look at what needs to be done and believed a consultant’s report would simply result in a list, with no work being done.
“This is $100,000 and we will be doing zero,” he said of repairs. “To pay $100,000 for a consultant is absurd.”
Courtney suggested moving $10,000 back into the budget for financial reporting software, noting the matter was discussed by the audit and finance committee. He believed if it was an asset to have and could make things better, he was all for it, noting the issue paper must have been something staff had been behind.
Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Tracy Prince indicated the idea came from the committee, but she found by looking into it there would be no real savings to the town as there would still be work that would have to be done manually.
“We don’t really feel it’s real value added,” she said. “It’s probably not a good use of funds.” Crain, who chairs the audit and finance committee, said the software suggested “may solve half the problem” and “I don’t believe it’s money well spent.” Gibb, another member of the committee, said customized software they could use may cost $150,000-$200,000, if he recalled correctly.
Continued on Page 4
Santa Claus and Clydesdales arrive at AMA Sportsmen’s Association
By Ron Giofu
Santa and his elves stopped by the AMA Sportsmen’s Association to visit with children and families on the weekend.
The AMA Sportsmen’s Association held its annual Christmas party for its members last Sunday with the feature attraction being the arrival of Santa Claus around the noon hour. Coming down Lowes Side Road via Clydesdale horses and a wagon, provided by Wismer Clydesdales, Santa and his elves turned into the club where they went inside and distributed gifts to the children inside.
“We do it every year,” explained AMA Sportsmen’s Association president Rod Ferriss, of their Christmas party. “All the kids get hot dogs, pop, chips and gifts from Santa.”
Ferriss thanked Wismer Clydesdales for their assistance, as well as the Canadian Tire store in Amherstburg for helping with gifts for the children.
“The gifts have been wrapped by our volunteers at the club,” said Ferriss. “We always have extra presents. We never turn a child away.”
There were approximately 200 people in attendance last Sunday, with about 124 children and youth signed up to get a gift. Children and youth had to be related to a member in order to be eligible to receive a gift.
“It’s a wonderful day for the club to see everyone come out and enjoy a day with their children and their grandchildren,” said Ferriss. “It’s one of the best benefits of being a member of the club.”
The AMA Sportsmen’s Association holds youth programming throughout the year, with this season featuring archery on Monday nights and air rifle on Wednesday nights. The club hosts its annual turkey shoot Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. with the community welcome to try its air rifle skills.
The AMA Sportsmen’s Association is located at 468 Lowes Side Road. For more information, call 519-736-5706, e-mail info@amasportsmen.com or visit www.amasportsmen.com.
Charlotte Ross of Amherstburg receives a gift from Santa Claus during the Christmas party held last Sunday at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association. Over 120 children were registered to receive a gift.
Santa Claus arrives at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association Sunday morning as part of the club’s annual Christmas party. Santa and his elves arrived at the club after coming down Lowes Side Road and into the parking lot with the aid of Clydesdale horses and a wagon provided by Wismer Clydedales of Amherstburg. Children of members received a present, a hot dog, pop and chips as part of the party.
Four delegations address town council regarding 2026 budget
Continued from Page 2
Council voted not to put that $10,000 back in the budget.
Fire department overtime increases totalling $186,250 were left in the 2026 budget, though that did catch members of council’s attention.
“We monitor the costs for overtime annually,” said fire chief Michael Mio. “Every year, they go up.”
There have been some savings as the fire department transitions from a three-station model to a two-station model, but he said overtime comes into play when someone has to cover off another person’s vacation or training. He added much of that is contractual, with it also having to do with parental leaves, bereavement days and the aforementioned vacation requests.
Mio added the department could request another fulltime body in the future, but 2026 was not the year to do that.
“To hire someone at this point would not make sense,” the fire chief stated.
Gibb compared to a situation he said was discussed at county council’s budget deliberations regarding staff with Essex-Windsor EMS.
Crain brought up motions passed by the audit and finance committee regarding reductions to professional fees in the clerk’s department as well as expenses in the human resources department. Clerk Kevin Fox recommended against that, stating the town will spend roughly what it budgeted for in 2025 in that department and there is still training and other matters such as integrity commissioner-related expenses that could arise next year. The training would be due to a new council coming in late in the year.
The human resources cuts were not recommended by CAO Valerie Critchley, who stated there are still expenses related to non-union pay equity and other matters being worked on by the town.
An expense in information technology that the committee was also brought up, but like the others, ended with no motions being made.
Community grants were kept within the same $51,547 spent last year, and that included a $2,000 pre-commitment to 2nd Amherstburg Scouting. Christ Church will receive $1,000 to maintain its historic cemetery that sits around its Ramsay St. site, though other causes will get proportional reductions to stay within what was spent last year.
Amherstburg Community Services will go from $15,000 in 2025 to $13,612.50 in 2026. The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission will drop from $20,000 to $18,150, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum will drop from $8,500 to $7,713.75 and the Park House Museum will go from $10,000 to $9,075.
More on the community grants debate will come next week, though Prue said it was a tough decision but every group that made a request got something.
“It’s still a good thing to do,” he said of the donations.
Allaire added everyone can still donate to these causes and “you can easily make an impact.”
Tuesday discussions were slated to be on the capital budgets, with the intersection of Lowes Side Road and Sandwich St. S. moved from operations to capital. H.
Murray Smith Centennial Park will also have an additional $450,000 earmarked for it, with funding that was scheduled for a pair of Libro Centre amenities redirected. That will be added to the $500,000 that was designated for Centennial Park last year. More information on that debate will be featured next week, due to deadline constraints.
Town council heard from four delegates Monday night on budgetary matters. Bill Petruniak made several suggestions he believed would generate revenue without raising taxes.
“I get it, this is an election budget. You don’t want to make people mad,” said Petruniak.
Petruniak stated the town owns 52 buildings that all need repair, but doubted the town needs all of those properties.
“Get professional appraisals for all of the surplus properties and sell them,” he said. “Use the money to repair and maintain our underfunded infrastructure.”
The Carnegie Library “looms large” over this budget, he added.
“If you spend $4 million on the library, that is $1,250 per square foot. At $7 million, that’s $2,187.50 per square food. These estimates are totally ridiculous,” said Petruniak. “Compare them to what moving the town hall to the old high school would have cost. Until you have money and a plan, put a band-aid on the windows, step back and think.”
Petruniak also called for a hiring freeze, and for council to reduce total staff through attrition.
“Amherstburg has too many employees,” he said. “My research shows 10 per cent more than any other municipality in Essex County other than Windsor.”
Petruniak added “overtime is done! If managers can’t control overtime, there should be no salary increases for them.”
While there were requests for new positions, the town’s senior management team did not recommend them for this year and town council agreed not to put in any new positions in the budget.
“You can’t justify updating our accounting software because it costs too much, but you can spend a few hundred thousand dollars on pickleball courts?” he added. “Stop being penny wise and pound foolish.”
Petruniak also called for the town not to spend on studies for project that can’t be afforded for years to come. He also urged council to get a long-term investment strategy.
“Hire professionals that can make our money work for us,” he said.
Stating “the town needs money,” Petruniak also suggested using a third party firm to go after delinquent tax files. He also said the town should stop “generating frivolous litigation,” as “these cases are costing the town too much money.
“Amherstburg deserves better than our proposed 2026 budget is offering,” he said. “Stop playing Russian Roulette with our assets. Stop wasting time and money.”
Gary Bowerman, with the aid of his wife Eloise, told council “the town is at a critical juncture” and meaningful contributions over extended timeframes will allow for the deficit gap to shrink until the town can self-fund
its existing assets.”
Bowerman spoke on the asset management plan (AMP) and pointed out the town was able to use a payas-you-go strategy to manage cash flow for the purchase of assets, such as the fire ladder truck.
“By self-funding this project over five years for $3 million, the town was able to avoid the cost of debt for the replacement of this ladder truck,” said Bowerman. Bowerman said there is “only a very brief mention of investment growth” and stated over the past three years, $1 million has been deposited in dedicated reserves. He said the four elements of municipal financial stability are taxation, user fees, debt and investment growth. He questioned how a long-term investment strategy could be be devised that allows Amherstburg to achieve selffunded pay-as-you-go funding versus debt.
Dane Weaver spoke on the issue of bike lanes, stating he was ecstatic to read the transportation master plan and its statements on bicycle lanes. He believed some roads could be wide enough to have bicycle lanes installed. He noted he is not an engineer but believed there could be room on some roads and asked the town look into it.
Weaver said he sent 24 e-mails in seven months to town staff but achieved little progress. He said there has been no evaluation of roads to see if they are wide enough but has been told some roads may need to be reconstructed before a bike lane could go in and that a traffic engineer would have to sign off on bicycle lanes before they are approved.
Among the roads suggested were Dalhousie St. from Front Road South to Gore St., Laird Ave. from Fort Malden Dr. to Alma St. and Front Road South from County Road 20 to McLeod Ave. Crain said some ideas should be investigated and wanted the town to “get the ball rolling,” but others believed it was not the correct time to discuss the matter. Pouget said the suggestions were “premature” and that other needs require council’s attention. A motion for a report failed, though Prue told Weaver it doesn’t stop him from coming back at a regular meeting to bring his ideas back.
Frank Cerasa wondered if talking about fiscal responsibility to council was “a total waste of time,” stating that “raising taxes without a balanced budget is not a success story.”
Cerasa said the town is loosing jobs and is not doing enough to stay competitive, adding “we are being set up for total failure.” He said council is showing “a lack of understanding of how resources should be spent.” A new municipal building and library is a want and not a need, he added, and called the new fire hall “a Taj Mahal” that should have been made smaller.
Cerasa also said council approved a pay raise as well as tax increases of over 17.5 per cent over the last three years, both points challenged by members of council. Courtney said town council did not raise their own pay, and pushed it to the next council so they could make a decision. A pay raise was approved by county council, he added, with Prue and Gibb voting against. Prue said it was he who stated he’d donate his county council raise. Administration was also asked to list the tax increases over the previous three years, with Prince quoting figures of 5.12 per cent, 4.81 per cent and three per cent.
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Essex County approves 2026 budget with 2.25 per cent increase
By Fred Groves
It took over six hours but the County of Essex has approved its 2026 budget.
Essex County council voted to spend $145,144,950 next year which is up from $140,043,690 in 2025.
The vote was taken at the county’s budget meeting held last Wednesday night in Essex.
Overall, the county has a 2.25 percent increase to the tax rate.
“Our goal remains simple – maintain stability, deliver value and plan responsibly for the future,” said director of financial services/treasurer Melissa Ryan. “We want to make sure our financial decisions continue to align with council’s priorities and community needs.”
In 2025 the county’s operating budget was $92,745,240 and that will jump to $98,811,780.
The net capital budget was $47,298,450 which increases slightly to $48,905,770.
In her presentation to council, Ryan noted that there continues to be steady growth pressures in both infrastructure and services.
Warden Hilda MacDonald said that the 2026 budget takes into consideration the county’s strategic priorities in a challenging economic environment while maintaining services.
“Reviewing and setting the budget is one of the most important tasks council performs,” said MacDonald. Breaking down the various
departments, Infrastructure and Planning will take up 38 per cent of the overall budget, 28 per cent goes to External Commitments, 12 percent to EMS, 10 per cent to Long Term Care, seven per cent to Corporate and Community Services and five per cent to the Library Board.
There will be a drop in the reserve funds were was $318.5 million in 2025 and that will dip to $262.37 in 2026.
One of the departments that raised a lot of concerns from Amherstburg
Mayor Michael Prue was the EssexWindsor EMS of which the county is responsible for managing in a trade off with the City of Windsor that takes care of housing.
In his budget report to council, EssexWindsor EMS Chief Justin Lammers had requested a new position of commander of operations which was not approved.
“I appreciate it is on the wish list, but not all wishes come true,” said Prue. However, an EMS position of Community Programs Co-Ordinator was approved and supported by Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb.
That task requires the co-ordinator to back the new defibrillator program.
“I feel we have done so much work on the community defibrillator program, that to see it fail by the wayside would be a shame. Building community resilience, I think that is important especially when EMS is stretched,” commented Gibb.
EcDev committee creating new workplan for the coming year
By Ron Giofu
With a new year coming soon, the town’s economic development advisory committee is looking ahead to see what they want to focus on.
The committee met earliert this month at Amherstburg town hall where part of the two-hour meeting was devoted to the committee’s workplan and what they still want to focus on this term.
Items they are highlighting include that administration be directed to look at additional festival and event programming devoted to culture, art and music as well as to have administration “find solutions” for electrical and water deficiencies that may exist to attract industrial and agricultural development.
The plan, which is still ongoing, may also include administration looking at Murray St. and the proposal to close a block between Dalhousie St. and Ramsay St., with town council already having tasked administration to seek input from businesses in the area.
Research on additional marketing opportunities to attract tourists are also items still in the workplan, as is programming for festivals and events with such things as community bands as well as performing spaces for them to play.
Exploring “pop up” galleries in vacant space and have a report come back
was another part of the plan with the committee also stating it may further explore potential themes for districts of Amherstburg.
Overnight accommodations continue to be an issue in Amherstburg, with the economic development wanting to see a plan with competitive benchmarks included as part of a possible workplan.
Incentive programs to find someone to take over “generational” businesses was another item of discussion that could be part of the workplan.
The committee went over the current plan as well, with committee member Alan Buterbaugh stating it requires “special attention” to sell and encourage people to come to Amherstburg.
Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne stating the town is seeking grant funding to help bring hydro and water services to the Howard Industrial Park.
Osborne added the town’s economic development officer Myrtle Donnipad works with local businesses and often guides them to seek financial support through sources outside of the municipality.
Councillor Linden Crain wondered about the status of the Murray St. issue, but Councillor Diane Pouget advised caution about the issue, citing controversy around Open Air Weekends and the
ability for people to speak on the issue.
Crain replied that he was simply looking for feedback on the Murray St. matter.
Committee member Michael Deneau noted the ongoing issue of overnight accommodations, noting large amusement parks and tourist attractions build on-site hotels with the intent of having people stay over.
Osborne noted later in the meeting hotels want assurances of room rentals throughout the year, though pointed out there are incentives for companies to build a hotel between Texas Road and Simcoe St.
Crain wanted to see festivals like Open Air Weekends with more programming. Manager of economic development,
tourism and culture Jennifer Ibrahim told the committee additional themes being explored for Open Air Weekends in 2026 include being a stop on the Carousel of Nations, a possible rumrunners weekend, having some involvement with soap box derbies, historical themed events and greater involvement with the Amherstburg Fire Department on possible events and competitions.
Committee member Jack Edwards wanted to ensure items on the workplan could be accomplished and that the committee didn’t overreach what its capabilities are.
Edwards pointed out there have been successes, stating there were 27 vacant storefronts seven years ago and that number has now been reduced.
Essex County council met last Wednesday night to discuss the 2026 budget. When the meeting concluded, there was a 2.25 per cent increase for the county portion of the tax rate.
North Star High School welcomes future Wolves at Grade 8 open house
By Donna Tuckwell
North Star High School opened its doors to prospective Grade 9 students and their families last Wednesday, hosting an open house that highlighted the school’s rapidly growing legacy and wide range of programs.
The Grade 8 open house was made even more special by the presence of the school’s first-ever graduating class, who shared their experiences and welcomed the next generation of North Star “Wolves.”
Founded in 2022, North Star High School has quickly become known for its diverse academic and extracurricular offerings. Students can explore
everything from traditional academic subjects to sports, technical courses, media and communications, arts, cosmetology, and music. Specialized programs along with a fully stocked library, provide additional support and enrichment opportunities.
Vice principal Jason Lynn said the school’s strength lies in its strong sense of community.
“The charm of the school is it’s community-based,” Lynn explained. “We want the students to feel welcome, and to give them the flexibility to study what they want to learn from our variety of programs without getting lost in the shuffle, and the enthusiasm here is contagious.”
Student leaders also played a central role in welcoming newcomers. Junior Prime Minister Keegan Ladouceur delivered an inspiring message to future students, assuring them they would be supported from the moment they step through the doors.
“The people at this school will make you feel very welcome and cared for,” he said. “We have many programs in place, so get ready to unlock your future as a North Star Wolf—come and be part of our pack.”
Deputy Prime Minister Madison Kempt echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the dedication of North Star’s educators.
“The teachers at North Star genuinely
Christmas market
care about you,” she said. “They want you to succeed, and they will help you figure it out. Your story is about to begin, and North Star is the perfect place to write it.”
As families toured classrooms, met staff, and learned about course options, the excitement was palpable—fitting for a school that has built a reputation for enthusiasm, opportunity, and community spirit in just a few short years.
With its first graduates now preparing to move forward and new students preparing to enter, North Star High School continues to grow, one story, one student, and one pack member at a time.
•
Students at North Star High School were around the building last Wednesday night showing potential incoming students what the school has to offer. That included a look at a CNC machine (left) while the dance programs and teams were also highlighted (right). North Star held its Grade 8 open house and students and parents could tour the school.
A Christmas Market was held in late November at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village. Those who attended, as well as those who were vendors, included people from Amherstburg. One of the local vendors was Sherry Van Hoorne (right). Barb Catherine and Charlene Shaheen from Sweet Salvage were also vendors at the two-day indoor Christmas market.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Villanova welcomes future students at Grade 8 open house
By Fred Groves
The Class of 2030 explored everything St. Thomas of Villanova had to offer Monday night as the Catholic secondary school opened its doors and hosted the Grade 8 open house.
A large crowd of future Wildcats had a chance to get an up close and very personal look at what their next four years will be.
“We are so excited that you chose Villanova in your next step of your academic journey,” said Olivia Dauma, deputy prime minister of the Student Council at Villanova.
Dauma, along with fellow council member Charlotte Bondy welcomed the future students and noted that, as current Grade 12 students, they have many lasting memories and are grateful for what Villanova has provided to them.
“Welcome future Wildcats. It’s a pleasure to be part of this extraordinary learning community,” said principal Dr. Danielle Desjardins.
As many of those who attended quickly learned, this school is much more than reading, writing and arithmetic.
Throughout the night, current students gave demonstrations in everything from robotics and digital media production to transportation and technological design including a demonstration with a 3D printer.
Monique Sevelski’s daughter Juliana is in Grade 12 and she is proud of the fact that her younger daughter Dayna, a Grade 8 student at Amherstburg’s Stella Maris, will be coming to Villanova next fall.
“We are Catholic and she (Dayna) goes to the sister school and we like the programs. She chose it (Villanova) and she wants to take dance. She had an invite to another school,” said Monique.
Dance and drama are a big part of Villanova and during the opening ceremonies, the audience had a sneak preview at an upcoming production of Mamma Mia.
“I think it’s a good school. There is a good
community of people,” said Juliana.
Jake Donnelly is in Grade 9 and he was excited to have the opportunity to show his friend Liam Charette who is in Grade 8 around and get ready to come to Villanova.
Liam already knows what he wants to pursue saying, “I want to be an actor and they have a good acting program here.”
A Message of Thanks
“People Helping People”
As we approach the Christmas season, the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is once again preparing to help local families in need. Our Christmas Family Sponsorship Program is one of the most meaningful ways our community comes together each year. Sponsors provide clothing, toys, and toiletries for children and a little extra joy for families who might otherwise go without.
We are reaching out to individuals, businesses, churches, schools, and service groups to consider sponsoring a family this Christmas. Your kindness helps ensure that every child wakes up to something special under the tree.
This past year has been a busy one at the Mission. We continue to serve hundreds of people each month with food, clothing, and daily lunches—all thanks to your generosity. Our annual Golf Tournament and Chili Dinner were once again great successes, and our new Celebrity Cookbook fundraiser was met with overwhelming support. We are grateful to everyone who contributed, purchased, or participated.
The Mission remains strong thanks to our dedicated volunteers, community partners, and donors. Together, you help us live out our motto: “People Helping People.”
St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic Secondary School currently has an enrolment of about 1,300 and is in the Windsor-Essex Catholic School Board of Education.
It is the primary Catholic secondary school for Amherstburg, LaSalle and River Canard.
Photos of graduating classes dating back to 1993 are on the walls of the hallways at St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic Secondary School and the school boasts notable graduates as professional hockey players Michael DiPietro, Zack Kassian, Andrew Gibson and Super Bowl champion Luke Willson.
If you would like to sponsor a family or contribute in another way, please contact us at 519-736-9140 or visit us at 298 Victoria St. S. Any level of support makes a difference.
From all of us at the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, thank you for your continued kindness and generosity. May your Christmas be filled with peace, joy, and blessings.
With gratitude,
President Tim McAllister & the Board of Directors
Grade 8 student Liam Charette, left; got a new Villanova hoodie and was welcomed to the school by Jake Donnelly (above). Student Council secretary Sofia Galanopoulous encouraged new students to sign up (left).
Local school aiming for 10,000 pairs of shoes for those in need
By Ron Giofu
A local elementary school is undertaking a number of charitable initiatives, with a shoe drive kicking things into high gear, so to speak.
Amherstburg Public School and its social justice club are collecting shoes that are no longer worn and will be donating to the charity “Soles4Souls.”
They started collecting pairs of shoes from within the school community and the Amherstburg community as a whole since the 2025-26 school year started in September.
Music teacher and social justice teacher lead Nadine Draper said they are trying to collect 10,000 pairs of shoes by the Christmas vacation, with efforts having surpassed 2,100 pairs so far.
Not only do the shoes help communities in crisis, Draper said the shoes are refurbished and kept out of landfills. She added in areas where they are sent, the shoes are sold by local entrepreneurs as a way to keep people employed.
When Amherstburg Public School collects 10,000, they will receive 100 pairs of new shoes for the school community. Draper added thanks to a partnership
are gathering for Soles4Soles. The school is attempting to gather a total of 10,000 pairs of shoes.
with BioPed in LaSalle, an additional 100 pairs of shoes will be coming to the school.
“They accept all kinds of shoes,” added teacher Lisa Staley. “They also fix them.”
Two other teacher advisors are with the social justice club, including Rachelle Caron and Sarah Casey.
Shoes can be running shoes, crocs, high heels and
other types of footware.
Not only is Amherstburg Public School a drop-off point, the community is welcome to drop off their donated shoes at the Libro Centre. There is a box available in the Libro Centre lobby.
Draper said not only does the box at the Libro Centre fill up quickly, so does the area surrounding it.
“Every time I go to the Libro Centre, there is a vanload full,” she said. “It is usually one or two pick-ups per week at the Libro Centre.”
Draper added she is proud of the students for encouraging their fellow students about this and other charitable initiatives. She said it is a giving school that helps where it can.
The shoe drive is a way people can give back to their community without it costing them much, if any, money, Draper pointed out.
Among the other charitable initiatives Amherstburg Public School is involved in are a campaign to have students create holiday cards for the Downtown Mission, a food drive for Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) and a toy drive.
For further information on Soles4Souls, please visit their website www.soles4souls.org.
Rotary welcomes donation for “Socks & Bottoms” campaign
By RTT Staff
Members of the Rotary Club of Amherstburg are collecting socks, bottoms and more to help those in need this Christmas.
Local Rotarians Sandra Paisley and Nancy Roy were at the Amherstburg branch of WFCU Credit Union last Thursday night to pick up a tote full of goods that will be used to assist those in need. It is part of the “Socks & Bottoms” campaign, which includes all Rotary Clubs in the area.
Items that were collected – and are still being collected – include not just new socks and underwear, but other items such as baby diapers, toilet paper, toothbrushes and toothpaste, gloves, hats, and more.
Items were collected through community donations and involved WFCU locations in the region.
“Any members who came in were able to bring in donations,” said Kate Deslippe, manager of the WFCU branch in Amherstburg.
Deslippe added members with the Gibson Gallery stepped up with a large donation to the campaign.
“All the rest are from staff,” said Deslippe.
“Socks & Bottoms” donations collected in Amherstburg will stay in Amherstburg. Donations can still be dropped off at WFCU and Paisley added she is working with other groups to land donations as well. Should people want to donate to the “Socks & Bottoms” campaign, they can also reach out to any Amherstburg Rotarian.
Amherstburg Public School students show pairs of shoes they
WFCU manager Kate Deslippe (left) presents a donation of “socks and bottoms” to Rotarians Nancy Roy (centre) and Sandra Paisley (right).
WEBC, town hold open house to discuss new skills park
By Ron Giofu
A possible new mountain bike skills park could be built on the Libro Centre’s grounds and the public got a look at some of the plans late last week.
The skills park is being proposed by the Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) in partnership with the Town of Amherstburg.
The open house was held by WEBC and the town’s recreation, parks and facilities department in the lobby of the Libro Centre last Friday evening.
James Braakman, one of the five directors with WEBC, said they were getting positive feedback from those who stopped by.
“It’s going good,” he said of the open house.
The skills park is proposed for a patch of land between the skateboard park and where the new Amherstburg fire station is going, in the Larry Bauer Park section of the Libro Centre complex.
Braakman said the skills park would be for both beginner and advanced riders and make them feel more comfortable before they hit the actual trails.
“A lot of features in the skills park will mimic what is on the trails,” said Braakman.
The skills park will further improve safety on the trails, he believed, as riders will be able to master or improve their skills on features before actually going back onto the trails.
The cost of the skills park is estimated by WEBC, with fundraising to be held during this winter and spring,
to be between $30,000-$50,000.
“It will be similar to the mountain bike trails,” said Braakman. “There will be no cost to taxpayers.” Braakman said fundraising paid for the three-phase trail system that starts on the berms behind the baseball diamond and football field and winds its way around the arena itself and ends with features near the Amherstburg Dog Park.
The skills park is the “cherry on top” of what has already been accomplished, and that it was already in the plans.
WEBC has a land stewardship agreement with the Town of Amherstburg and he believed WEBC is giving the town good value given the trails have been installed and maintained by volunteers.
“It’s a cool relationship,” said Braakman.
Heidi Baillargeon, the town’s director of parks, facilities and recreation, said it was the first open house since the adoption of the updated parks master plan.
“We just want to hear what people have to say about adding this park at Larry Bauer Park within the complex at the Libro Centre,” said Baillargeon. Baillargeon agreed that features in the park would match up with what is actually on the trail.
While a presentation was recently made to town council on the idea, WEBC will be returning to a meeting in the future to obtain formal approval. Baillargeon anticipates it will be brought back to town council in the first quarter of 2026.
Two groups perform at “Christmas at the Museum” inside Nazrey AME Church
Continued from Page 1
The museum has grown this year, he added.
“We have expanded our digital presence, solidified our stability by sustaining full-time staff and tripled our academic scholarships,” said Logan. “We were also honoured to celebrate the designation of King St. as ‘Mac Simpson Way.’”
Logan also thanked museum staff, the 50th anniversary fundraising committee, donors, sponsors and all those “who made this year shine.”
“Without you, we’re not here,” he said, about the community.
The museum is still selling 50th
anniversary commemorative coins, he added, and they sell for $25 each or $100 for five.
For more information on the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, please call 519-736-5433 or visit their website at www.amherstburgfreedom. org.
The Amherstburg Freedom Museum is located at 277 King St.
The Tanner-Price singers perform as part of “Christmas at the Museum” last Sunday afternoon at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. The Music Ministry of New Life Fellowship were also part of the afternoon’s entertainment.
Adam and Xavier Desjardins take a look at some of the plans for the proposed new skills park at the Libro Centre (above). An open house was held in the Libro Centre lobby last Friday evening, with a diagram of what is being proposed by WEBC being one of the displays (below).
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to cats.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, this week is all about momentum. Your boldness helps you break through obstacles like a professional. A surprise opportunity might crop up. Embrace this chance.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
The week starts off slow and steady, but then a sprinkle of excitement is added to your routine. A sweet surprise from a loved one could make your week even better.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Your social butterfly wings are flapping, Gemini. Engage in fun conversations with all of the people who come your way. Who knows, even a spontaneous adventure might present itself.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, your nurturing side shines through this week. You might find yourself acting as the go-to person for support or advice. Just be sure to tend to your own needs as well.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, you are ready for action even if everyone else isn’t. They will look to you as a leader, but you probably won’t mind having a few chances to lead over the next several days.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Clarity and calm are the words of the week for you, Virgo. Those little details that you’ve been puzzling over for a bit finally click into place, leaving you feeling amazing.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, this week is all about harmony and how you can organize things to achieve it. You may be in the mood to connect and collaborate, helping to bring people together.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
People may be drawn to your playful and magnetic side this week, Scorpio. Make time for socialization, but don’t hesitate to book some alone time if you think you need it.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, your adventurous side is unstoppable right now. You are still being fueled by discovery and others want to join in the fun. Remember to slow down and recharge.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Hard work pays off in little victories this week, Capricorn. While you love being productive, remember to celebrate every success, even if it is a small one.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
A change of scenery could be good for you, Aquarius. If work had you feeling tired and worn out, book a short trip somewhere to enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Don’t brush aside the creative sparks that seem to be popping into your brain one after another, Pisces. Trust your intuition, as it’s guiding you toward fun things ahead.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
DECEMBER 7 Larry Bird, Athlete (69)
DECEMBER 8 - Tanner Buchanan, Actor (27)
DECEMBER 9 - Tré Cool, Drummer (53)
DECEMBER 10 - Joe Burrow, Athlete (29)
DECEMBER 11 - Hailee Steinfeld, Actress (29)
DECEMBER 12 Jennifer Connelly, Actress (55)
DECEMBER 13 - Taylor Swift, Singer (36)
Breakfast with Santa well attended in McGregor
By Fred Groves
The jolly old elf has certainly been busy making his rounds and Sunday morning he took time to visit the Columbian Club in McGregor.
It’s a regular stop for Santa Claus as he has been the main attraction at the annual Breakfast with Santa for about a dozen years now.
“The event is the opening of the holiday season and next up is our big dinner Dec. 21,” said Laura Belanger, a leader with the McGregor Squirettes of Mary #1001.
The girls youth group has about 30 members and the Breakfast with Santa is one of the annual events they host.
“The (Columbian) Club puts on the event and the Squirettes partner with them. It’s a girls youth group aged 10 to 18 and their focus is service to the community,” explained Belanger.
Continued on Page 15
Members of the McGregor Squirettes of Mary dish out breakfast (above) while four-year-old Bauer Mathews (left) and his two-year-old brother Ford got to meet Santa Claus (bottom photo).
Admirals pick up win, record two losses in busy week
By Fred Groves
It was a busy four days for the Amherstburg Admirals as they played three games, picking up a 12-3 win over the Walpole Wild and coming very close to beating the West Stobbs Division leading Essex 73’s and the Lakeshore Canadiens.
Amherstburg now sits at 9-14-2-0 in the Provincial Junior Hockey League (Jr. C).
The Admirals came out flying last Saturday night against Essex and were up 2-0 early on goals by Stefan Djordjevic and Brayden Hebert but the 73’s pulled to within one with just nine seconds left in the opening frame.
The Admirals regained the two-goal cushion as Hebert got his second of the night, but Essex scored a shorthanded goal and one on the powerplay to tie it up before Jack Lewis got the winner late in a 4-3 decision.
“The first period we played great and then halfway through the second we started going back to our old style of being fancy and wanting to make plays,” said Amherstburg head coach Zack Gervais.
Amherstburg played with a lot of grit and determination in the final period with second-year defenceman Freddie McCroy laying out a huge mid-ice hit and forward Finnigan Russett making an excellent play by diving for the puck and swatting it out of the zone.
“The guys worked hard, they blocked shots and they
won faceoffs,” said Gervais.
Without a doubt the best player, and rightfully named the first star of the game, was Amherstburg goalie Bennett Horrocks who turned away 48 shots and late in the game, without his stick, brought the Libro Centre crowd to its feet with some heroics.
“He laid it all out there. He played with a lot of heart. I feel bad for him for what happened at the end,” said
Gervais.
The Admirals hosted Lakeshore Sunday evening and battled the Canadiens to a scoreless first period stalemate before falling 2-0.
Once again, Amherstburg got an outstanding effort between the pipes as Landon Dimitroff made 37 saves.
“Both those teams (Essex and Lakeshore) are super skilled and have super skilled players,” said Gervais.
Last Thursday at Walpole Island was a night of firsts for the Admirals.
Second-year speedy forward Cory Leach had his first hat trick, veteran Jayden Seguin returned to the lineup for his first contest of the year, and Jackson Blair netted his first goal.
Amherstburg went 3-for-7 on the powerplay en route to a big 12-3 win over the Wild. Leach and Stefan Djordjevic led the way with four points each. Also scoring were Finnigan Russett, two each from Rory Sandison and his linemate Brett Jones, and Cooper Bulmer. In all, 15 Admirals hit the scoresheet.
Dimitroff got his third win in net making 33 saves.
The Admirals travel to Dresden Friday night to take on the Kings. The next home game is Dec. 20 against Blenheim at 7:30 p.m.
SLAPSHOTS: Saturday night was Jayden Seguin’s 100th PJHL game… High scoring forward Brody Gillis had an assist against the Wild but due to an injury did not play Saturday or Sunday.
New era underway for girls volleyball at North Star High School
By Ron Giofu
It’s a new era for the girls volleyball program at North Star High School. New coaches are leading both senior and junior teams, with them both being former players. Mya Foreman is helping coach the senior girls team while Morgan Hadfield is coaching the junior Wolves. Lisa Voakes is helping coach both teams as well.
The senior team hosted the Essex Red Raiders last Thursday evening and it was the Red Raiders who came away with a two sets to one victory. The Wolves had their chances in the first set but it was Essex that would surge towards the end of that set and come away with a 27-25 win.
North Star kept it close in the next game, but Essex won the second set by a score of 25-23. In the third set, the
Wolves won that by a score of 25-21.
“They had really good energy to start the game,” said Foreman.
Foreman believed they did a lot of things well but there are parts of their game they have to work on as well.
The Wolves will be playing in this weekend’s Black & Gold Invitational Tournament at North Star, and Foreman believes they can clean up some things and gain some experience.
“We’re looking forward to showing our skills,” she said.
Foreman was also pleased with the level of support the Wolves had last Thursday evening.
“I thought it was a pretty good turnout for the first game of the season,” she said.
The junior game followed, with it once again being a two sets to one victory for
the visiting Essex team.
The Red Raiders captured the first set 25-17 with North Star tying the match with a 25-20 win in the second set. The third set went in favour of the Red Raiders 25-20.
Hadfield said they played well in the first set but believed the junior Wolves were nervous throughout the match. They want to get more consistent going forward, she added, but added they worked well together.
There’s a “pretty even mix” of Grade 9 and Grade 10 players on this season’s junior girls team, she added.
The seniors play this week at home versus Leamington Thursday at 4 p.m. The junior girls play Tuesday at Walkerville at 4 p.m. and against Leamington at home Thursday at 5:20 p.m.
Wolves boys basketball team starts 2025-26 season with a loss
By Ron Giofu
The North Star Wolves senior boys basketball team are putting a predominantly new team on the court this year but their first game did not result in a win.
The Wolves dropped a 60-50 decision to the visiting Erie Migration Coyotes Dec. 2 at North Star. While Erie Migration led throughout most of the game, the Wolves were never out of it as they clawed back whenever they faced a deficit.
Erie Migration had a 15-12 lead after one quarter and the Kingsville-based high school expanded it to a 34-24 halftime advantage, but the Wolves had a strong
third quarter and cut it to 45-41 heading into the final quarter.
“It was a great showing from the guys,” said North Star coach Griffin Muzzin. “Kingsville came out and played a great game.”
Muzzin acknowledged there are a lot of new faces on this year’s Wolves team, as there are only two Grade 12 players this season. Thirteen players from last year’s team have graduated.
“It’s a young group,” he said.
Muzzin is hopeful they will come together as a group over the next nine games, but emphasized he was proud of the effort against Erie Migration as
the Wolves kept coming back and being competitive.
“That’s basketball,” he stated. “They made a run, then we made a run.”
The goal this season is to make it into the WECSSAA “AA” playoffs.
“We’ll see where we go from there,” he said.
Team captain Ashton Fevreau said the Wolves had one week of practice heading into the game and predicts they will play better as a group as the season progresses. They need to work with each other better and slow the pace down, he noted, but said North Star has a lot of heart.
Essex’s Ethan O’Neil was stopped on this wraparound attempt by Amherstburg goalie Bennett Horrocks.
North Star’s Olivia Petro (left) and Aria Pare come together as they go after a ball in junior girls volleyball action last Thursday evening.
North Star’s Ashton Fevreau (white jersey) shoots as he is surrounded by three Erie Migration players last Tuesday night in Amherstburg. Continued
Local Business Directory
Community Calendar
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11
FILM SCREENING; There will be a screening of “Radio Renaissance: Amherstburg’s New Wave” at the Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road. Film is directed by Gavin Michael Booth and features team at 107.9 FM The Burg. Tickets $12, available at www.tickettailor.com. Proceeds go to The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission and The House Youth Centre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., screening at 7 p.m.
THURS, DEC. 11 & SUN, DEC. 14
CHRISTMAS CANTATA; Join the St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church choir for the Christmas Cantata called “Tonight.” Narrated by Rev. Olwyn Coughlin and directed by Matt Kulbacki. The Dec. 11 performance is at 7 p.m., the Dec. 14 performance is part of the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. Admission is free, all are welcome. Church is located at 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.). For info, call 519-736-4972.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12
DICKENS AND DELIGHTS; Join the group at the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St. in Amherstburg, for an evening with storyteller Olwyn Coughlin. Enjoy a candlelit performance of “A Christmas Carol” in the Victorian Parlor. During intermission, enjoy hot mulled cider and traditional Victorian treats made on the hearth. Cost $20 per person, pre-registration required. Space is limited. Runs 7-9 p.m. For info or to book your spot, call 519-736-2511 or e-mail parkhousemuseum@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
CHRISTMAS CONCERT; The AmherstburgHarrow Catholic Family of Parishes invites the community to a Christmas concert at St. John the Baptist Church. Featuring performances by St. Michael’s Schola, the St. Thomas of Villanova choir, Carina Evon, and the Holy Harmonizers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m. Free-will donations will be accepted at the doors for the building fund. Please bring a canned good to help replenish the St. Vincent de Paul pantry. Church is located at 225 Brock St. in Amherstburg.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
COMMUNITY DINNER; The second annual “Christmas in the Burg” community turkey dinner returns to Encounter Church, 125 Alma St., with seatings 4-5:30 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m. Free to attend, must register at www. encounteraburg.ca. Live Christmas music to be performed by 2Fish.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21
CHRISTMAS NATIVITY PLAY; Join St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church as it celebrates the Christmas season! Church is inviting
children and youth of all ages who love to play an instrument, sing or act to be part of the play. Church is located at 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. For more details and the rehearsal schedule, contact Rev. Shirley Carleton at 519-736-4972 or staoffice.129@ gmail.com. Play is Dec. 21 at 10:30 a.m.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24
CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE; Join St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church for a Christmas Eve candlelight worship service. Church is located at 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. All are welcome.
ONGOING
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers. Cleaners required Monday-Friday from 1:303:30 p.m. Dishwashers needed Thursdays (and to fill in, as needed) from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Maintenance people needed MondaySaturday as needed for building maintenance. Help also required to organize special events and fundraisers. For info, e-mail Jill at aburgmission@yahoo.com.
DIVORCECARE; A 13-week support group for those going through a divorce or separation will begin Tuesday, October 28 from 6:308 p.m. at Lighthouse Church, 266 King St., Amherstburg. To register please call Rose at 519-819-5936.
ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. 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.
DONATIONS TO PENSIONER’S COTTAGE; Park House Museum raising funds to restore historic Pensioner’s Cottage. For info, call 519-736-2511 or e-mail parkhousemuseum@ gmail.com. Donations to can also be made at www.parkhousemuseum.com/donate or www.gofundme.com/f/restore-our-historicpensioners-cottage.
MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hubs WindsorEssex holds mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre, 320 Richmond St. (Amherstburg Community Hub). Runs every Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people ages 12-15. For details, call 519-8008640.
GALLERY EVENTS; Holiday Artisan Shoppe runs Nov. 20-Dec. 14 featuring work of local vendors on sale. Event is a “mini-Art by the River” at the gallery. Gibson Gallery is at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Fall hours 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. For info, call 519-736-2826 or visit www.gibsonartgallery. com.
QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild invites guests/new members to attend 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 Wednesdays 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. Hall space available for rent for showers, weddings, birthdays, stags and more. For info, call 519734-8575.
COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. has bingos Thursday nights and fish fries (with chicken as well) Friday nights. Everyone 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.
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH
SERVICES; Unitarian Universalist Church, 2953 Olinda Side Road in Ruthven. The Canadian Unitarian Council will speak on “Turning Toward One Another” Nov. 30. Rev. Paul Langston-Daley will speak on “The Porcupine and the Raccoon” Dec. 7. Services start at 10:30 a.m. For info, call 548-3244352. All are welcome.
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. Meals come 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. Over 160 members have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong, bridge and line dancing. Club 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” to 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 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission. ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.
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, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.
AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-7365471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & more. Please call to see how we can help! Food bank runs Tuesday, Thursday, Friday with curbside pickup available.
GIBSON
FOR RENT
CLASSIFIEDS
2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for Rent in Amherstburg, includes utilities $1,830. Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex on Queen Street in quiet neighbourhood. One block from the Detroit River within a short walking distance to town. Carpet and ceramic tile throughout. Modern open-concept kitchen with island for working or eating. Fridge, stove, and dishwasher included. Private laundry-room with washer and dryer included. Windows in every room with mini blinds included, providing lots of natural daylight. Central forcedair conditioning and highefficiency gas furnace. No smoking. No dogs. Private access to your own patio within shared rear-yard. $1,830 monthly, includes: central forced-air heating and cooling, natural gas, electricity, water, and sewer. Minimum 1-year lease. Apply with income verification. First and last month’s rent required. By appointment only, call 519736-4473 between 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a detailed message.
Please Recycle
EVENT SPACE FOR RENT
HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-736-6096 or Doris @ 519-734-8154.
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.
POWER WASHING & PEST CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Making your home look new again. 519-7362448.
“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.
Wolves girls hockey team starts 2025-26 season with loss and win
Next home game for North Star is Dec. 16 vs. Cardinal Carter
By Ron Giofu
The North Star Wolves girls hockey team has returned to the ice and have a win and loss in their first two games.
The Wolves opened the WECSSAA girls hockey season Dec. 1 at the Libro Centre with a 2-0 loss to the Tecumseh Vista Academy Vortex. Despite the loss, the Wolves were pleased with their effort.
“For our first game, we actually played really well,” said assistant captain Ashley Mongeau.
Mongeau said they worked hard and “we’re meshing really well.”
“We played good hockey,” added assistant captain Ireland Carter.
Carter said they go out and do their best and don’t focus on the scoreboard.
Captain Tyler Lamarche said they are working hard and hope to make it to the WECSSAA finals.
Coach Dan Pettypiece was happy with the effort, noting this year’s team will need to rely on “dirty,
greasy” goals this year as while they work hard, they may have trouble generating offense otherwise. If they get in front of the net and score on screenshots, deflections and rebounds, they will be better.
“It was a really good effort,” said Pettypiece. “We played against a very strong goalie.” Pettypiece said they had a lot of shots but the Vista goalie gave them everything North Star could handle.
“The effort was there,” he added. “I’ve got Grade 9s rushing the puck. You can only get better from there.”
Gauging the expectations is difficult, he added, as there are players playing on multiple teams and in multiple sports. If they can juggle who turns out and put out a strong lineup, Pettypiece said that is when they are OK.
“I believe there is a lot of talent in there,” he said, in reference to the dressing room.
The major expectation is to simply work hard and put in the effort.
Boys basketball in action this week against L’Essor and Essex
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The Wolves had a pair of games this week,
Kids enjoy visit with Santa
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Many of the members were very busy helping serve the delicious hot breakfast while others worked the craft and games activities and helped good girls and boys pen letters to Santa.
Isabelle De Zorzi has been a Squirette for about three years and she was lending a hand to seven-year-old Bruce Croft making some ornaments.
Asked what he wants for Christmas, Croft said, “I want a remote-controlled Gecko that climbs up the wall.”
Beth Mathews joins her family every year at the Breakfast with Santa and brought her sons, Bauer, 4, and his younger brother two-year-old Ford. Wearing matching outfits they sat still with Santa.
One of the games on Sunday was pin the carrot nose on the snow man but before anyone could take part in the activities they were given an elf name. That was determined by the person’s initial of their first name along with their date of birth.
Snowflake O’Blizzard was one of the characters on hand and one of Santa’s elves who helped out was known throughout the morning as Buddy Candy Cane. Next up for the Squirettes and the Columbian Club in McGregor is Christmas Turkey Dinner Sunday, Dec. 21 from 3-6:30 p.m. It’s a free meal but donations are accepted. Those that want to book to attend can contact Rose Renaud at 519-919-5318.
Belanger said that during the COVID-19 pandemic, they served close to 1,000 meals that day and expects at least 750 this year.
“People are very generous and the Knights of Columbus sponsors that event.”
one at home and one on the road. They were in Amherstburg last night (Dec. 9) against L’Essor after this issue of the River Town Times went to press and will be in Essex Thursday (Dec. 11) for a 4 p.m. tip-off against the Red Raiders.
They play in Windsor against Lamothe-Cadillac Dec. 16 at 5:30 p.m. before heading to LaSalle to play Sandwich Dec. 17 at 4 p.m., in their final game before the Christmas break.
They don’t return to North Star until Jan. 15, when they host Belle River at 5:30 p.m.
Lois Shirley Dupcza (Nee Beckett) Obituaries
We are heartbroken to announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Lois Shirley Dupcza (Beckett), on Saturday, November 29th, 2025, at Leamington hospital. She was 97 years old. Born on July 19, 1928, Shirley was the matriarch of our family and our rock. She was the source of wise wisdom, loving counsel, and the warmest hugs. Her infectious smile and laugh brightened every room she entered. Her immense love of life and family will never be forgotten.
The Wolves travelled to Kingsville Dec. 2 for their second game of the season and picked up their first win. North Star knocked off the Erie Migration Coyotes 4-1 with Zoey Deschamps, Aria Pare, Tyler Casey, and Mongeau scoring for the Wolves. The next game for the Wolves is in Tecumseh this Thursday at 2:45 p.m. for a game against L’Essor. They return to the Libro Centre Dec. 15 for a 3 p.m. game against Cardinal Carter.
Shirley is now reunited with her late husband, John Dupcza.
She is lovingly remembered by her children:Rosalyn Edwards (Terry), Terrance Dovaston (Lynn). Her adoring grandchildren:Nicole Olsen (Aaron), Chris Edwards (Holly) and Krista Dovaston. And her cherished great-grandchildren: Lucas Olsen, Liam Olsen, Emma Edwards, and Zach Edwards.
Shirley was also a dear aunt, cousin, and friend to too many people to list. She touched countless lives.
Paul Francis Wayne Whittal
January 10, 1939 – November 29, 2025
It is with deep sadness that the family of Paul Whittal announces his passing at the age of 86.
A Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the summer, and details will follow.
A lifelong resident of Amherstburg, Paul was the beloved and cherished husband of Mary, with whom he shared 63 years of marriage. He was a loving and dedicated father to Sandra (Sandy) Neposlan (Rob) and Sean Whittal (Jen), and proud ‘papa’ to Jada, Camille, Isla, Alicia, Jordan, Jack, and Angel Ethan. Predeceased by his parents, Norma (Wardell) and Francis Whittal. Brother to his late siblings, Bill Whittal (Verlyne), Marion Jensen (Frank), Jeanne Thrasher (Richard), Fran McLean (Stew), and Eleanor. Brother-in-law to the late Irene Warner (Mickey) and Joseph Kitka (Doris). Family was the center of his life, and he took immense joy in every moment spent with them.
Paul dedicated 30 years to teaching at both General Amherst High School and later, St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School. He taught accounting, business, and economics and also served as a department head and co-op coordinator, guiding students as they prepared for their futures. In addition to his commitment to education, Paul served as an OPP Auxiliary Officer, a role he held with deep pride. His love of building and focus on quality work in whatever he did, resulted in four of his own family homes and those of friends and colleagues as well.
Paul was a man of dignity and admired for his integrity and deep commitment to his family, friends, and student success. We will miss his encouraging advice, calm presence, and wonderful dry sense of humour. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love, and will be remembered fondly by family, friends, colleagues, and generations of former students.
At Paul’s request, cremation has taken place. Memorial visitation to take place on Saturday December 13, 2025 from 11am until 1pm at FAMILIES FIRST, 585 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, 519-969-5841. Procession to follow visitation, to St. John the Baptist Church for a memorial mass at 1:30 pm. Share memories, photos, or make a donation at www.FamiliesFirst. ca Donations may be made to Sickkids, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and Transition to Betterness (T2B).
The North Star Wolves (white jerseys) and the Erie Migration Coyotes (purple jerseys) go over an inbound play late in last week’s game. Erie Migration won 60-50.
