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McGregor Community Christmas Dinner serves 600 meals By Fred Groves Ever wonder what it takes to cook dinner for 600 people? The Knights of Columbus Council #2844 along with the Squirettes of Mary pooled their resources and talents in McGregor and hosted the 29th Annual Christmas Turkey Dinner. As soon as you walked into the front doors of the Columbian Club you could smell the delicious, recognizable holiday favourite aroma - roasted turkey. “Most of the prep work happened on Friday,” explained Squirette Cara Charette. Asked how many pairs of hands were in the kitchen she said, “it fluctuated during the day, there was about 20.” Preparing potatoes, trays, desserts, veggies and salads, as well as stuffing takes a lot of work which began again early Sunday. “This morning, we got here at 9 a.m. and peeled a whole lot of potatoes. There were seven or eight really big bags,” said Charette. Chopping all the veggies is a laborious task and one which the two groups are pleased to do year-after-year. The Squirettes, a girls youth group, was the
Santa Claus and his elves were part of the McGregor Community Christmas Dinner last Sunday evening (above) while Squirette Melanie Decaire was one of those helping to serve the meal.
organizing group and a few weeks ago hosted the Breakfast with Santa, also held at the Columbian Club. “We have one or two big fundraisers each year,” commented Charette. Dennis Rousseau has been a member of the McGregor Knights of Columbus #2844 for 47 years and was recently
honoured with a Life Membership. “It’s (Sunday’s dinner) a part of our fraternal to help out in the community,” he said. Beginning at 3 p.m. and running until 6:30 p.m. the Squirettes served up dinner to hundreds who reserved a spot. According to Charette, 160 meals were
delivered to seniors and those who could not get to the venue. Sunday’s dinner was free, however donations were accepted. For those curious to how many turkeys it takes to feed 600, through the rumblings in the kitchen, Charette reported, 32.
Nativity Play
Led by Rev. Shirley Carleton and the congregation at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Amherstburg, a Nativity Play was held last Sunday morning. Members of the congregation and community acted out the play, which drew a large audience in the church’s hall. It was followed by a pot luck meal. Members of the Rivertown Dance Academy (right) also performed as part of the play. The performance can be found on the church’s YouTube channel by searching St. Andrew’s Amherstburg.
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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
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Donations pour into Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission By Ron Giofu
‘Tis the season to help non-profit organizations and the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is one that has been aided by many. Among the donations that have been been made public is one by the Fort Malden Animal Hospital. The animal hospital are sponsoring a local family for Christmas, but they are also sponsoring the Christmas meal itself at the mission. “This year, we’re helping the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission,” said Dr. Kim Quinn. “We donated ten extra-large turkeys for the Christmas lunch as well as sponsoring a local family.” The clinic and the mission connected earlier in the year at an Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce function and the animal hospital made the decision to help the mission. “We contacted (volunteer board member) Jill Kanwischer and got things set up to help the family,” said Quinn. The Fort Malden Animal Hospital wanted to help others during the holidays and believed donating to the mission is a great way to do it. “They jumped in and wanted to sponsor a family,” Kanwischer said. Once the opportunity was available to sponsor the Christmas dinner at the mission, the animal hospital was willing to step up for that as well. “They were so accommodating to our needs,” said Kanwischer. The free Christmas dinner is Dec. 25 at 12 noon at the mission. Rob & Tina’s No Frills donated
Rob & Tina's No Frills made a large donation to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission (above) as did Movati Athletic (right) over the past week.
turkeys, boxes of stuffing, cans of gravy, cranberries, squash, bags of potatoes, carrots, onions, apple pies and Canada Dry ginger ale, all in quantities of 32. That is the amount of food baskets being packed. No Frills co-owner Rob Carr said they wanted to ensure the mission got what they needed without the mission having to use its own funds. Rob, Tina and their staff wanted to give back to the community and give the mission the food. Kanwisher added TI Automotive, formerly known as Precision Plastics, provided a substantial donation for the food baskets but thanks to Rob & Tina’s No Frills, the TI Automtive donation can be used for other needs. “TI Automotive initially made a generous financial donation to cover the cost of the Mission’s 32 Christmas turkey baskets, ensuring the program could move forward without strain on the mission’s resources,” she said. “That support was then matched in an
extraordinary way when Rob & Tina’s No Frills donated every item needed for the baskets at no cost.” Kanwisher said the generosity of both TI Automotive and No Frills meant the mission was “doubly blessed,” allowing the original donation by TI Automotive to be redirected toward purchasing eggs, milk, and meat for the food bank in January. Movati Athletic donated 140 pounds of food last week. Member experience associate Krystina Leclerc said it is something Movati does annual as they want to give back to the community. Providing support to places like the mission reminds them that giving back to the community even in small ways can make a big difference. Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School collected food through its recent Christmas open house. “Thanks to the caring teachers, enthusiastic students, and the wonderful community at Stella Maris, many local families will feel the warmth of
Christmas this year,” said Kanwischer. Integrity Tool & Mold and its employees donated $1,000 through its “Integrity Cares” program. Representative Amy Greco made the cheque presentation, noting the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission is one of four food banks they donate to, along with a number of toy drives, can drives and other charitable initiatives.
Continued on Page 9
Integrity Cares, represented by Amy Greco (second from left) donated $1,000 to the mission.
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Wednesday, December 24, 2025 – River Town Times – 3
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Another year of helping people for the AAM Goodfellows By Ron Giofu Volunteers with the AAM Goodfellows were busy last Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning with the end result being people in need getting fed. The Columbus Community Hall was brimming with activity last Wednesday afternoon as trucks were unloaded, tables lined with goods and then boxes filled for those who had registered for one. The final number of boxes ended up being 90, up from the 73 that were registered as of Dec. 14. “It’s going well. Paper sales were really good,” said AAM Goodfellows president Rick Murray. Newspaper sales that occurred Dec. 12-13 raised over $15,000. The River Town Times and Huron Web Offset Printing helped contribute to the creation of the newspapers. Murray said when it came time to pack baskets, a number of new faces came out to help. He was pleased to see that, especially the youth that turned out last
Volunteers pack Goodfellow food baskets last Wednesday evening (left) while a line was formed to help bring in bags of potatoes (above). When all was said and done, a total of 90 food baskets were distributed this year.
Wednesday evening. “They have to take over from us to keep this going,” he said. “We’re all getting older. The more that come out, the better it is.” The Goodfellows teamed with Sobeys again this year to help with the groceries, with carts with boxes on top
going up and down aisles between the tables getting filled with food. The boxes get heavy, so Murray said he appreciates those who helped lift them. Distribution of the food baskets occurred Thursday morning, also from the Columbus Community Hall.
Suspect sought after alleged vehicle arson in Amherstburg The Windsor Police Service is seeking a suspect following what police allege was a deliberately set vehicle fire in Amherstburg. Shortly after 2:30 a.m. Dec. 13, police responded to a report of a vehicle fire in
the 200 block of Mullen Crescent. Officers learned that a male suspect had been dropped off by a taxi in the 300 block of Lavers Crescent. The suspect allegedly walked up to a property on Mullen Crescent, poured an
accelerant on a 2017 Ford Explorer, and set the vehicle on fire. According to police, the blaze quickly spread, causing secondary damage to the home’s garage and its contents. Police claim the suspect then ran back to the taxi which departed moments later. While no injuries were reported, the fire caused approximately $105,000 in damage to the vehicle and residence. The suspect is described as a male wearing all black clothing. Investigators were unable to track the specific taxi, as police say the meter was not active at the time of the incident. The vehicle is believed to have had a spare tire or missing hubcap on the front driver’s side.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Windsor Police Arson Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4330. Members of the public can also contact Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www. catchcrooks.com.
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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
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Seasons Amherstburg helps ACS
Financial aid to SSVP
Special to the RTT
Staff with the Town of Amherstburg donated $450 in gift cards to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) this past Monday morning. Sabrina Bilyk, the town’s human resources health & safety business partner, said voluntary donations were collected with the aim of giving back to a local charity. This year, they donated to SSVP. Local SSVP president Camillo D’Alimonte said the need is great in Amherstburg this year and the organiation appreciates the donation.
The holiday spirit filled Seasons Amherstburg Retirement Community as residents, their families and team members donated to its annual Holiday Food Drive, which benefitted Amherstburg Community Services. The heartfelt initiative, which ran from Dec. 1-14, brought together community members to combat food insecurity. “Seasons annual holiday food drive is a cherished tradition allowing us to make the holiday season brighter for those in need,” said Tamasin Dineen, general manager, Seasons Amherstburg. “We are truly grateful for the incredible support from our residents, their families and our dedicated team members.” Earlier this year, Seasons Retirement Communities in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario hosted their annual “One Can Make a Difference Challenge.” All communities collected non-perishable items to fight food insecurity in their local communities. Seasons has proudly partnered with Food Banks Canada since 2016, and thanks to the generous
Seasons Amherstburg helped the food bank at ACS with proceeds from their food drive. From left: ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo, Seasons fun manager Jenn Lauzon, Seasons resident Ruth Anderson and leasing manager Morgan Ouimette.
efforts of its residents, their families, and team members, the organization has contributed over $350,000 in food, funds, and thousands of canned goods.
Stay safe and stay happy over holidays and we’ll see you Jan. 7! It’s that time of year again. The holiday season is back in full swing and, as I write this, people are getting ready and finalizing plans. Aside from a few last minute things, I am pretty much set and as ready as I can be. The River Town Times put out our holiday greetings last week and we truly do thank everyone for their support over this year and we look forward to serving everyone in 2026 (and beyond).
JUST A THOUGHT Ron Giofu
I did want to point out that while the generosity of our community was on display this season, not all photos were able to be printed in the paper just yet. We still plan on recognizing these donations and the assistance
provided, but we only have so much space in the print edition. While we enjoy serving our wonderful community, we are also taking a bit of time to recharge our batteries a bit. There’s not going to be a River Town Times next week (Dec. 31) but we’ll be back Jan. 7. We’ll also be back on the airwaves of 107.9 FM The Burg (CKBG) that day as well, so if you don’t hear Laura and I on the radio for a couple of weeks, don’t worry. We’ll be back soon.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The office will actually be closed Dec. 22-Jan. 2, but we’ll be in periodically checking phone messages, e-mails, etc. It’s definitely been a busy season once again for us. December is always hectic in this business, with it being a lot of Christmas events as well as the usual news and sports coverage on my end. Even though it’s been very busy, it’s always a pleasure. We’ll see you again next year! In the meantime, stay safe and stay happy.
Resident has concerns with administration after watching budget deliberations I want to address only two items from the Dec. 9 budget meeting, which clearly shows the state town administration is in. There was a discussion about a new drive-thru for a business. By now, the administration would have sufficient experience with what a drivethru should look like and the relevant bylaws. We certainly have enough of them in town. But no, they want to spend $44,000 for a consultant for an assessment. Both Councillors Pouget and Courtney raised questions on why we can’t use
guidelines from other towns and why administration staff cannot handle this. Here is the answer from the administration: we don’t have experts on staff that can do these things, and if we did, it would result in overtime and overworked staff. We get to hear this all the time, and it is a clear admission from the administration that they need consultants to do the work. But Amherstburg has one of the highest number of people on the Sunshine list. There is a simple solution. Replace staff members with the consultants. Now you Member of the
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have people who can handle the job, and you save consulting fees. The second item that proves my point is the infrastructure services. There is lot of money for the budget for bridges etc. When Councillor Pouget asked which bridges is the money for, administration responded that there weren’t specific bridges yet, that we put aside this money for repairs and maintenance. Again, the Sunshine managers had a whole year to prepare details for the budget, but we just get guesstimates.
What are the CAO, Deputy CAO (why do we have one) and the VP of finance etc. doing about this? Nothing. But they are experts in one thing, let’s raise taxes. When are the council members are going to start representing the interest of the taxpayers and stop this nonsense? No company or professional organization would put up with this. A clear shake up is needed to get this town back on the right track. —Holger Kretchmann Amherstburg
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY • 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 views of the newspaper, staff or ownership. Send letters to mail@rivertowntimes.com or drop off at the office: 80 Richmond St., Unit 9 or mail to: River Town Times, 80 Richmond St., Amherstburg ON N9V 1E9
• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please. • We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We also reserve the right to edit for 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.
Wednesday, December 24, 2025 – River Town Times – 5
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Waste disposal cost going up for Essex County municipalities By Fred Groves The cost of waste disposal is going up. Last week at Essex County council, Michelle Bishop, general manager of the Essex-Windsor Solid Waste Authority (EWSWA) presented the annual financial forecast. In 2025, Amherstburg paid $600,780, that will jump by $18,160 to a total of $618,940 in the upcoming year. The biggest concern amongst county councillors is how much of the waste being collected within the several municipalities will be diverted from the regional landfill due to new recycling programs. Residents are in the process of getting
new bins, including the green bins which are being rolled out to help organic waste, such as those from kitchens, to go to a processing facility in Leamington. While the primary purpose of recycling is to reduce the amount of waste going to the landfill, and prolong its use, one councillor had questions around residents participating. “If we start to see an increase in recyclable materials coming into the landfill, and it’s not working, what’s our next step?” asked Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers. Bishop said while it is easy to detect things like tires, electronics and appliances coming in, as far as cardboard,
paper, cans and other recyclables, that responsibility could be put back onto individual municipalities and their waste disposal contractors. “We are required to have inspectors at the landfill. We monitor for contamination. If a load of municipal waste from your residents comes in, we document it. Recyclables are harder to pull because it’s tricky to turn around trucks,” said Bishop. Overall, the EWSWA will see a 2.1 percent increase, a total of $326,390 of which Essex County’s share is $149,040. That is passed on to the seven municipalities. “I’m getting asked by residents why there isn’t a savings. I know there is
good reason for it,” said Kingsville Deputy Mayor Kim DeYong. The reason, as pointed out by Bishop, is that there is a loss of revenue due to the fact that as a result of the green bin program, there will be a projected reduction of waste going to the landfill from 109,000 tonnes to 99,266. Since the cost per tonne of $43 for disposal is not increasing in 2026, the EWSWA, in order to have a balanced budget by 2027, has to get revenue by upping how much each municipality is assessed. “We have to do everything we can. Whether it’s hard or difficult we have to figure it out, that’s the goal,” said Rogers.
Highlights of 2025 offered by county’s accessibility advisory committee By Fred Groves Keep accessible parking spaces clear of snow and ice. That is one of several tips being offered by the Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee (ECAAC) during the winter inclement weather. Members of the committee made a presentation to county council Dec. 17 which included a video highlighting several ways to assist with accessibility. Included was slowing down when moving, shoveling and salting walkways, good lighting, and keeping handrails free of ice. Dennis Sanson, chair of the ECAAC
said that the past year has been a very successful one and acknowledged the ongoing collaboration with the county and several agencies and organizations. “The ECAAC with the support of the county, has had a busy and successful 2025,” said Sanson. In his summary of activities, Sanson pointed to the ongoing work in accessibility for all, inclusion and raising awareness in the community. “This team really cares about accessibility,” said Kingsville Deputy Mayor Kim DeYong, the county’s representative on the committee. As part of the committee’s multiyear plan that extends to 2027, there have been ongoing improvements to
the county’s administration building in Essex. “Since our last update in the spring, the committee has been collaborating with the county to improve accessibility to the county’s facilities.” These have included a lift installed at the north entrance of the building and electronic hands-free automatic door openers. According to ECAAC Vice-chair Debbie Alexander, 2025 saw a great deal of collaboration with EssexWindsor EMS and the Essex Region Conservation Authority. “ERCA and our committee have a long-standing history of collaboration,” said Alexander.
Another huge highlight from this past year was the second annual Outdoor Fest-for-All which was held in September at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy praised the staff in Amherstburg and said, “it’s the most free and fun-filled thing to do in the county.” Also, the committee’s Facebook page had 125,000 views in 2025, which is an increase of 40 percent. Looking ahead, the committee has ambitious plans over the next couple of years which includes people with disabilities being part of any future County of Essex diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives or committees.
In Loving Memory of
Margaret Isabel Roder (1926-2025)
Margaret Isabel Roder — lovingly known to our family as Grandma Turkey, a name she earned and adored — lived a life defined by devotion, resilience, and deep love. Alongside her husband, Allen Roder, Margaret cofounded Roder Turkey Farms Ltd. in Arkona in 1955, later processing turkeys under the Almar brand. Turkey farming wasn’t simply their livelihood; it was who they were. Family life revolved around the farm, and it remained at the heart of their marriage and their identity as a couple. Allen passed away in 2002, but their shared legacy continues. Margaret’s life was marked by both joy and profound loss. Together, she and Allen raised four children: Beth, Allan Jr., Art, and Linda — my mother. In 1965, their son Allan was tragically killed in a car accident at just 14 years old. Years later, our family lost my mother Linda in 2012, at the age of 52. Late in life, my grandmother shared with me the wisdom these losses taught her: that love, and life do not come without heartbreak — it is part of the package. She believed it was possible to carry great sorrow and still appreciate the life you are given, and that losing someone close only makes those still with us more precious. Margaret lived a remarkably full and adventurous life. She went white-water rafting
at 80, took annual birthday motorcycle rides, and welcomed us every year to her Florida home for family vacations. She was known for her famous turkey dinners, chili, sweet pickles, and pigs-in-a-blanket. She loved all sports — especially her Toronto Blue Jays — and approached every card game with a fearless determination to win. She was also an accomplished oil painter and knitter, a dedicated volunteer at retirement homes, and a familiar voice calling Saturday morning bingo games. She adored Murder, She Wrote and The Sound of Music and had a gift for storytelling so vivid it felt like watching the moments unfold in real time. Her memory never failed her, and her stories never ran out. What I will miss most - all of it. I will simply miss her. Ninety-nine years is a life well lived — an extraordinary gift. And yet, even 99 more would never have been enough. This holiday season, I hope her story serves as a reminder to tell the people you love that you love them. Make time for one another. Sit, listen, and cherish the stories of the past. Time with those we love shouldn’t be reserved for holidays alone — it’s something worth seeking all year long. ~ Laura D’Alessandro ~
6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
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Merry Christmas from our family to yours!
Letters to Santa brought to you by Remax Preferred Team Brad Bondy and the River Town Times.
Letters To Santa Ho! Ho! Ho!
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Wednesday, December 24, 2025 – River Town Times – 7
Letters To Santa Ho! Ho! Ho!
ATTN: COMMUNITY GROUPS What did your non-profit or church accomplish in 2025? What are you looking forward to in 2026?
?
Submit your write-ups and photos on what happened in 2025 and your goals in 2026 to
For information or to submit, e-mail Ron at
mail@rivertowntimes.com
Please keep written submissions in the 350-500 word range. Community group submissions will be published in mid-January. Submission deadline is January 7th @ 4PM
8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
Letters To Santa Ho! Ho! Ho!
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Wednesday, December 24, 2025 – River Town Times – 9
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Santa Shoutout gives local children a touch of Christmas magic By Ron Giofu Local children came to the giant snow globe next to the Gordon House and got a chance to meet up with Santa Claus. Santa and Mrs. Claus were in the snow globe Dec. 12 as part of the annual “Santa Shoutout.” The town-organized event saw “elves” around the snow globe gathering Christmas lists from parents and grandparents, relayed to Santa inside the snow globe and read to the children who kept a close eye on the big guy, awaiting their names to be read. Sarah Van Grinsven, a tourism co-ordinator with the Town of Amherstburg, pointed out the “Santa Shoutout” dates back to when it was done off the balcony of the Gordon House roughly eight years ago. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was changed to where Santa
The Santa Shoutout was popular Dec. 12 near the Gordon House.
Claus went inside the snow globe but it worked so well that Santa and Mrs. Claus stayed inside. The night proves to be magical for local children, she added.
“When Santa knows what they are asking for, their eyes light up,” said Van Grinsven. “The spirit of Christmas lights up in their eyes.” Personal information, such as names of siblings, parents as well as the Christmas lists themselves, help connect with the children. The River Lights Winter Festival is going well overall, Van Grinsven reported. “It’s awesome,” she said. “For River Lights in general, it’s going really great.” Recent snowfalls have helped, Van Grinsven said, as having snow on the ground adds to the atmosphere and allows the lights to shine off of the snow. The light displays will remain illuminated through Jan. 4, Van Grinsven added. “We want everyone to come out and enjoy the holidays,” she said, “and make it part of their traditions.”
Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School busy at Christmas open house By Ron Giofu A local school opened its doors last week and the school community got into the holiday spirit. Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School welcomed families to the building last Thursday evening for a Christmas open house. Families went through the building and stopped at roughly ten stations along the way, with activities include cookie decorating, colouring, Christmas card making, a “Minute to Win It” game, dancing, pictures with Santa Claus and more. There was also Christmas carols sung by students in the school gymnasium.
Santa Claus meets with Hutch Parlette at the recent Stella Maris Christmas open house.
“This is our third annual Christmas open house,” said principal Marisa Wismer.
“The main focus is family engagement. We want to strengthen the home/school relationship.” The Christmas open house allows families to come in and tour the building, meet with staff and engage with other families. “We keep growing the event,” said Wismer. “We get an awesome turnout.” As part of the Christmas open house, there was an Advent Almsgiving Gift of Hope food drive. Non-perishable food items were collected for those in need. “We’re donating those to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission,” said Wismer. The food was a way to ensure their faith was included as part of the open house.
The school also opened its doors to local businesses, with the River Bookshop and Evelyn’s Candy House on hand to sell snacks and reading material to those who stopped by. The entire school community was welcome to attend, with some inviting extended family members, Wismer added. She said Stella Maris was able to showcase what happens in their building and meet and greet with a lot of people. Wismer added it was an informal event and they were happy to greet everyone who turned out. “We’re a community school and we enjoy being part of the Town of Amherstburg,” she added.
Donations to causes like the mission remain strong this holiday season Continued from Page 2
Mission president Tim McAllister said they are thankful to everyone for their donations, stating they are making the jobs of the volunteers at the mission easier. “It’s hard to put into words. It’s beyond our imagination how blessed we are,” said McAllister. “They bless us so we bless (the community) back.”Mission president Tim McAllister said he enjoys the holiday season. “We live in a great town,” said McAllister.
SUBMITTED PHOTO
Stella Maris Catholic Elemtentary School stepped up with a donation to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.
The Fort Malden Animal Hospital stepped up big for the Mission.
10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
www.rivertowntimes.com
Kicks & Giggles Christmas Concert
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 If you are feeling half-hearted about what you are working on, then put it off for a little bit and focus on something more interesting this week, Aries. You can use the rest.
Encounter Church held a Christmas concert Dec. 20 with the church’s children’s choir performing along with a performance from Avryl Levesque (left) on her saxophone, Arianna Wallace (right) on the flute, associate pastor Kevin Saunders singing and playing guitar, the duo of Aryn Shaw and daughter Kinsley and Valerie Fox reading “T’was the Night Before Christmas.” More photos are on the RTT’s social media accounts.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Make it your business to remind others not to take life so seriously this week, Taurus. The best way to do that is to show them how to laugh by example.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Your thoughts are on an important decision that you need to make, Gemini. It’s best to wait a few days before you get into the thick of things. You need to mull all possibilities. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you may have the courage and the confidence to deal with whatever life throws at you right now, but not everyone is as dedicated as you. Make allowances for others this week. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Sensitive feelings are coming to the surface this week and you are not sure what to do about them, Leo. You won’t find peace of mind until you have dealt with them thoroughly. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, some unexpected news could come your way between now and the weekend. It may seem like a lot, but in the grand scheme of things, it will only be a minor issue. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 You have reason to be suspicious of someone’s motives this week. Just don’t go to extremes and start reading into every message or nuance, Libra. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, you might look super confident on the outside, but underneath you get anxious like everyone else. At some point this week you may need to ask for some help. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 It is easy to believe you have enemies around every corner, Sagittarius. Although you might have rubbed a few people the wrong way, most people actually are on your side. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, usually you couldn’t care less what other people think about you. But this week it seems important to get another person’s approval for your actions. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, be careful when dealing with someone in a position of power. They may have sights on a promotion you also hope to earn. Keep your cards close to the vest. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, some people believe the world is full of doom and gloom, but you know that every day is what you make of it. Brighten the days of others with your positivity. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS DECEMBER 21 - Samuel L. Jackson, Actor (77) DECEMBER 22 - Meghan Trainor, Singer (32) DECEMBER 23 - Finn Wolfhard, Actor (23) DECEMBER 24 - Ricky Martin, Singer (54) DECEMBER 25 - Annie Lennox, Singer (71) DECEMBER 26 - Jared Leto, Actor (54) DECEMBER 27 - Timothée Chalamet, Actor (30)
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Woofa-Roo Pet Festival cancelled for 2026 By RTT Staff The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival will not be back in 2026, but organizers are looking at a 2027 return. In a post on its social media pages, it reads: “It is with mixed emotions that we announce the cancellation of Woofa~Roo Pet Fest 2026. While many of the festival elements are well underway for June 2026, unforeseen positive changes in my business and personal schedules will prevent me from dedicating the level of time and attention required to produce
Did You Know
an event of this scale. This is not the end of Woofa~Roo Pet Fest, we will return in our usual pet and family friendly style! I sincerely apologize to our dedicated volunteers, vendors, sponsors, exhibitors, and, of course, our loyal attendees for any inconvenience this may cause. Thank you for your continued support and understanding. I look forward to resuming Woofa~Roo in 2027 and wish you all the very best in the year ahead.” The event is led by Lorene Clayton with a series of volunteers helping to present it annually.
DIABETES CAN AFFECT YOUR HEARING
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WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to cold and flue season.
Visit one of our Locations in Amherstburg, Essex, LaSalle, & Windsor ANSWERS ON PAGE 14
For more information go to YouHear.ca Or RSVP for a free seminar at HearingSeminar.ca
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Goaltending continues to shine for Admirals despite losses By Fred Groves As the Amherstburg Admirals continue to struggle offensively, a bright light is beginning to shine on its two rookie goaltenders. In their last three games, Bennett Horrocks and Landon Dimitroff have allowed just four goals. Last Wednesday night in Wheatley, 16-year-old Dimitroff made 39 saves, recording his first junior hockey shutout in a 2-0 win over the Sharks. “He was good. It was his first shutout ever,” said Admirals head coach Zack Gervais. Dimitroff was once again the first star of the game last Saturday night at the Libro Centre, stopping 40 from the West Stobbs Division second place Blenheim Blades in a 2-1 loss. The following night back in Blenheim, it was Horrocks’ chance to shine and he backed the Admirals to a point in a 2-1 overtime loss to the Blades. He made 24
Amherstburg goalie Landon Dimitroff makes a save against Blenheim in Saturday’s game.
saves. At the other end of the rink, former Admirals goalie Russell Vaughan got the win, making 29 saves. With the overtime loss, the Admirals now sit at 11-15-3-0 which they took to
Lanspeary Park in Windsor Tuesday night in an outdoor game against the Lakeshore Canadiens. While the young goalies continue to be the bright spots, Gervais once again voiced his frustration with a lack of offence. “That (Blenheim) is a team that knows what it takes when the game is on the line, they turn it up. When the game is on the line for us, we take a beating instead of giving a beating,” said Gervais. It was scoreless after the first last Saturday and deadlocked 1-1 after 40 minutes. Second-year forward Rory Sandison did what he does best, going to the front of the net to get his seventh of the year. Blenheim crashed the net and, following a scrum in front of Dimitroff, got the winner with less than two minutes to play. “We were 0-for-5 on the powerplay. We had some great opportunities. Flat out, we’ve got a lot of selfish hockey players,” said Gervais. Rookie defenceman Holden Wiley and
forward Brayden Hebert played physical all night with Wiley blocking a shot late in the game. Gervais said there is a difference between the Admirals and the three top teams - Essex, Lakeshore and Blenheim. “Those three teams compete. They know what it takes to win. They go that extra inch and we refuse to go that extra inch.” The Admirals scored first on a powerplay goal by blueliner Luka Milsoveic in Blenheim Sunday night. Former Admirals forward Stefan Jacobs helped set up the winner for the Blades in overtime. The Provincial Junior Hockey League (Jr. C) is off for a few days and following the holiday break, the Admirals will host the Walpole Island Wild Jan. 3. Puck drop at the Libro Centre is 7:30 p.m. SLAPSHOTS: Jacobs leads the Blades in scoring with 36 points including 13 goals… Former Amherstburg defenceman MJ Schwager was a linesman in Saturday night’s game.
Sr. girls Wolves volleyball team stays busy over the past week By Ron Giofu The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team were busy last week with three matches, including their first win of the season. The Wolves played three times, the first being a match on their home court last Tuesday evening (Dec. 16) against the Kennedy Clippers. The Wolves came out on the short end of 25-11, 25-17 and 25-17 scores but their coach still saw some good things from her team. “Overall, it was a good game,” said Mya Foreman. “They are a good rival, for sure.” Foreman said they had a short bench against the Clippers, with some players
missing due to illness while others missed due to other commitments. She said their serve receive could be “cleaned up a bit” and they need to improve covering on their passing but she said they did a good job in other areas of the match. “Overall, they played really well,” said Forman. “I liked their energy. They were cheering. They were positive.” Players had to play in different positions and Foreman said they had a good effort. The Wolves closed the 2025 portion of their regular season schedule with a pair of road games. North Star was in Leamington last Wednesday evening for a match against the Cardinal Carter Cougars. The Wolves captured the first
set but lost the next two by scores of 25-16 and 25-23. North Star broke through for its first victory of the season last Thursday evening at Catholic Central in Windsor. The Wolves won the first two sets 25-16 and 25-18 with the Comets taking the third set 25-18. With the win, the Wolves are now 1-4 on the WECSSAA Tier 2 regular season. Following the holiday break, the Wolves return to action on the road at Herman Jan. 6 at 5:20 p.m. They return to Windsor Jan. 8 for a 4 p.m. match against the Brennan Cardinals. The Wolves’ next home game is Jan. 13 at 5:20 p.m. against the Tecumseh Vista Academy Vortex.
Rayah Crawford gets underneath a ball during last Tuesday’s match against Leamington.
Jr. Wolves pick up three more victories on the court last week
North Star’s Cassidy Carmack saves the ball from going out of bounds (left) while the junior Wolves celebrate after the match-winning point (above).
By Ron Giofu The North Star Wolves junior girls volleyball team improved to 5-1 on the season after three more victories last week. The junior girls team won three matches in three days last week and didn’t drop a set in the process.
Their week opened in Amherstburg, as they knocked off the visiting Kennedy Clippers in three straight sets last Tuesday (Dec. 16). North Star defeated the Clippers 25-14, 25-12 and 25-23. “We played pretty good. We were down quite a few girls because of a hockey tournament in Windsor,” said North Star coach Morgan Hadfield. “It was the first game for a lot of players.” Hadfield acknowledged they made some mistakes, including some on rotations. At one point in the third set, Kennedy was up 13-12 but errors in their rotations and positions were caught and that resulted in Kennedy being awarded points and North Star being deducted points. When the dust cleared, Kennedy led 14-6 but the Wolves managed to come back and win the set. Hadfield said they can overcome their mistakes in practice and was confident
things will be fine going forward. The season has been going well so far, she added, with the junior girls riding a five-match winning streak. The juniors also did well in the recent Black & Gold Volleyball Classic, hosted at North Star. Hadfield said they won a few matches and advanced to the bronze medal quarterfinals before losing to Holy Names. The Wolves junior team was at Cardinal Carter in Leamington last Wednesday and won in three straight sets, 25-13, 25-15 and 25-7. They won again Thursday as they travelled to Windsor to play Catholic Central. North Star won that match 25-7, 25-8 and 25-13. The North Star junior girls volleyball team are at Herman Jan. 6 for a 4 p.m. match and host Tecumseh Vista Academy Jan. 13, also at 4 p.m.
Wednesday, December 24, 2025 – River Town Times – 12
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Community Calendar
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23 & WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES; Identical services being held at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St., with the Dec. 23 service at 7 p.m. and the Dec. 24 service at 4 p.m. The Dec. 23 service will be livestreamed on the church’s YouTube channel.
as needed) from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday 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 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 begin Tuesday, October 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE; Lighthouse Church, 266 King St., Amherstburg. To Join St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church for a register please call Rose at 519-819-5936. Christmas Eve candlelight worship service. Church is located at 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG St.) in Amherstburg. All are welcome. Service MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second starts at 7 p.m. and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. at The Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 & New members welcome. For info, e-mail THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25 rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call CHRISTMAS SERVICES; Christmas Eve Susanne at 519-990-2775. service at Christ Anglican Church is at 7 p.m. by candlelight. Christmas Day service at 10 a.m. DONATIONS TO PENSIONER’S COTTAGE; Church is at 317 Ramsay St. in Amherstburg. Park House Museum raising funds to restore historic Pensioner’s Cottage. For info, call THURSDAY, DECEMBER 25 519-736-2511 or e-mail parkhousemuseum@ CHRISTMAS AT THE MISSION; Free turkey gmail.com. Donations to can also be made dinner with all the trimmings available at the at www.parkhousemuseum.com/donate or Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 www.gofundme.com/f/restore-our-historicVictoria St. S. No registration required. Everyone pensioners-cottage. welcome. Meal served at 12 noon. MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hubs WindsorBRYERSWOOD RIB OR CHICKEN DINNER; Essex holds mental health and counselling Rib or Chicken Dinner for the Bryerswood Youth services at The House Youth Centre, 320 Camp Optimist Club being held at the River Richmond St. (Amherstburg Community Hub). Canard Columbus Hall starting at 5:30 p.m., Runs every Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Free for meal served at 6 p.m. This event promises to people ages 12-15. For details, call 519-800be an inspiring evening filled with outstanding 8640. food, great music supplied by CKRT Border City Radio, a 50/50 draw and silent auction. Tickets QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores are $35 per dinner and can be purchased at: Quilt Guild invites guests/new members to https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/ attend monthly meeting held every third Tuesday rib-or-chicken-dinner--2026 or through www. at St. John’s Hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North bryerswood.ca. Woodslee at 7 p.m. Our purpose is to promote and encourage the art of quilting in Essex County. ONGOING 519-726-5869. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers. Cleaners KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD required Monday-Friday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. EVENTS; Charity bingo Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Dishwashers needed Thursdays (and to fill in, 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 519-7348575.
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, SERVICE TIME; Christ Anglican Church, 317 call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood. Ramsay St., now has one service, starting at 11 com. a.m. All are welcome. MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open SERVICES; Unitarian Universalist Church, 2953 from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with free lunch from Olinda Side Road in Ruthven. Rev. Paul Langston- 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Daley will speak on “Resistance and Resilience” Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 Jan. 4. Services start at 10:30 a.m. For info, call a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, 548-324-4352. All are welcome. fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg welcome. Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those unable to shop for food and cook VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; meals. Also available to those recovering Community service volunteer hours are available from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and for high school students. Outside jobs at affordable meals provided to residents of Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@ Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. bryerswood.com. ACS caters to dietary needs. Meals come with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details. wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706. p.m. at the union hall on Pickering Dr. across from AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Walmart. Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, 5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Transportation, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a Ontario Energy Support Program & more. Please week, $10 a year to join. Over 160 members have call to see how we can help! Food bank runs fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday with curbside pickup mahjong, bridge and line dancing. Club crochets available.
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.
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! Our office will be closed from December 22th - January 2nd There will not be an issue of the River Town Times Dec. 31.
Our first issue of 2026 will be Wednesday, January 7th
14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
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Jeff Murray
April 16, 1969 - Dec 24, 2014
He went away without farewell He said goodbye to none. But Heaven’s gate was open wide And a loving voice said ‘come’. Beside his grave I often stand My heart is tired and sore. But through the gloom There come the words ‘Not dead, but gone before’
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Wednesday, December 24, 2025 – River Town Times – 15
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No injuries after King St. garage fire
Amherstburg Fire responded to a fire in the 300 block of King Street at approximately 11 a.m. last Sunday. Fire chief Michael Mio said crews arrived on scene and quickly brought a fire in a detached garage under control. A total of 30 firefighters were on scene assisting with suppression efforts. No injuries were reported. Investigation is ongoing. Fire safety The Amherstburg Fire Department cannot emphasize the importance of fire safety enough, especially with the holiday season approaching. Mio said residents are reminded to use caution with heating sources, holiday decorations, and candles, ensure smoke alarms are carbon monoxide detectors are working properly, and call 911
CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT
immediately in the event of a fire.
CO alarm regulations Amherstburg Fire wants to remind residents that starting Jan. 1, Ontario’s updated Fire Code requires carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every storey of homes and in more areas of multiunit buildings that have fuel-burning appliances, fireplaces, attached garages or related heating systems, expanding beyond the current requirement to just near sleeping areas to better protect residents from the deadly, odorless gas. For any questions, concerns or more information on other residential requirements please visit the fire department’s website at www.amherstburg.ca/fire/ fire-prevention/carbon-monoxideinformation or call at 519-736-6500.
Local school aids SSVP
École St.-Jean Baptiste helped the St. John the Baptist chapter of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) with a donation of nearly 6,000 canned goods and non-perishable food items. The month-long food drive saw classes compete with each other for a pizza party. The winning class collected over 800 food items.
STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING: TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, January 19, 2026 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act. ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than 4:00 pm on Thursday, January 15th, 2025. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk at clerk@amherstburg.ca. Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone. ANY PERSON who wishes watch the http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html
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please
visit
THE SUBJECT LAND affected by the proposed amendment is described as approximately 5.5 ha (13.591 ac) described as ANDERDON CON 5 PT LOT 11, being the property located 5801 Concession 5 N (see map below). PURPOSE OF THIS SITE-SPECIFIC ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT APPLICATION is to allow the applicant to add “Horticultural Uses” as an additional permitted use on the subject property zoned Agricultural (A). The current A zoning does not permit for horticultural facility uses, therefore the amendment will facilitate the proposed uses including: All permitted uses in the Agricultural (A) Zone; and a Horticultural facility. THE EFFECT OF THE ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT will be to allow the proposed additional horticultural facility use on the subject land zoned Agricultural (A). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at Town Hall located at 271 Sandwich Street South. Comments must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 15th, 2025 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council. NO PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the bylaw was passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to the Council or, in the opinion of the Ontario Land Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party. IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Town of Amherstburg before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there is reasonable grounds to do so. Further information the proposed Zoning By-law (File#www.amherstburg.ca. ZBA/17/25) Amendment is The meeting will be relating availabletofor viewing by livestream by visiting available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoningvisit By-law Amendment is also available For Council and a.m. Committee Agendas and Meetings, amherstburg.ca/calendar. for on the of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified To review subscribe toTown Council & Committee Agendas, visit Amherstburg.ca/calendar and click of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request SUBSCRIBE. to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting DATEDwww.amherstburg.ca. at the Town of Amherstburg this 24th day of December 2025.
RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU
Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If Key Map you want to learn more why and howfor theviewing Town collects information,by write to the Town Clerk's Office, 271 Sandwich Street The meeting will about be available by your livestream visiting The meeting will be available forwww.amherstburg.ca. viewing by livestream by visiting ww South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.
For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/calendar. For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amhers To subscribe to Council & Committee Agendas, visit Amherstburg.ca/calendar To subscribe to Council & Committee Agendas,and visitclick Amherstbur SUBSCRIBE. SUBSCRIBE.
th day of December 2025. DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 24 DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 24th day of December 2025.
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SEE WHY EVERYONE IS MAKING THE CHANGE
Short wait times All drug plans accepted Free dosette/pill box service Full service pharmacy Christopher Aspila Manager, Planning Services Town of Amherstburg Libro Centre, 3295 Meloche Road Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Telephone: (519) 736-5408 & Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website: www.amherstburg.ca
We do all the work... just a phone call away
721 Front Rd. South, Amherstburg
519-730-0001 Located inside the family health team building
Sandwich St. S. Dalhousie St. Lowes Side Rd.
Health First
FREE DELIVE RY!
Christopher Aspila Christopher Aspila Manager, Planning Services Manager, Planning Services Town of Amherstburg Town of Amherstburg Libro Centre, 3295 Meloche RoadLibro Centre, 3295 Meloche Road Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Telephone: (519) 736-5408 & FaxTelephone: No. (519) 736-9859 (519) 736-5408 & Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website: www.amherstburg.ca Website: www.amherstburg.ca
Proudly serving the Amherstburg community for over 10 years!
www.healthfirstpharmacygroup.com Store Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 8:30-6, Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-2
Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If you want to learn more about why and how the Town collects your information, write to the Town Clerk's Office, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 24, 2025
www.rivertowntimes.com
Wed 24
Dece
mber
Fri 26
Happy Holidays! The Municipal Buildings will be closed from Dec 24-Jan 1 The Libro Centre will be closed Dec 24-Dec 26
/Janu
ary
Sun 28
Mon 29
Hockey for Hospice @ the Libro -Track Closed -Drop-In programs paused
Adult Drop-In Hockey for Hospice @ the Hockey Cancelled Libro Today -Track Closed -Drop-In programs paused
Sun 4
Mon 5
Tues 30
Tues 6
Thurs 25
Wed 31
Thurs 1
Happy New Year! The Libro Centre will be closed Dec 31-Jan 1 All Municipal Offices will reopen tomorrow, Jan 2 Skating sessions are 50 minutes Wed 7
Last Day for River Lights!
Thurs 8
Sat 27 Hockey for Hospice @ the Libro -Track Closed -Drop-In programs paused Friday Garbage & Recycle will be picked up today
Sat 3 Fri 2 Drop-In Figure Beginner Skate Skate 8am & 3pm 3pm-4:50pm Drop-In Yoga *Extended time 9:30am for this date only* Parent & Tot Skate 10am Family Turf Time Turf Tots FREE (P2P) 10am-12pm 6:30pm-8:30pm Youth Skate 3pm Parent & Tot Stick Friday Garbage will be picked up & Puck 4pm today Fri 9
Sat 10
Heritage Committee Mtg 5:30pm Town Hall Reminder: First Recycling Cart Pickup
Remove ALL decorations & plastic bags
n o i t ra t s i Reg w o n is N E P O
WINTER 2026 LIBRO CENTRE
Program Registration
ADULT/SENIOR
DROP-IN PRESCHOOL YOUTH Visit amherstburg.ca/recreation for program details Register online at townofamherstburg.perfectmind.com P2P applications are now accepted through the Town of Amherstburg’s Recreation Department at the Libro Centre. For more information visit amherstburg.ca/p2p
LIBRO CENTRE
519.736.5712
RECREATION@AMHERSTBURG.CA
519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5