JANUARY
HOURS
Specializing in
•Custom •Pediatric •Fracture
Monday-FRIDAY
11:30am-6pm SATURDAY
10am-6pm
COVERED WITH BENEFITS
Sunday
433 Sandwich St. S. Next to Armando’s • 519-736-0972
Closed Wednesday, January 7, 2026
2025 - The Year in Review - 2025
The year 2025 has ended and here’s a sample of just some of the things we covered over the past 12 months. For further details on these stories and for even more information on the year gone by, please visit our website at www.rivertowntimes.com.
JANUARY •Family and friends of Kathleen “Kay” Bertrand gather to celebrate her 100th birthday. Bertrand has four children, ten grandchildren, 15 greatgrandchildren and two great-greatgrandchildren. Mayor Michael Prue, Councillor Diane Pouget, Essex MP Chris Lewis and Essex MPP Anthony Leardi joined the celebration. •The vehicle ferry from the mainland to Bois Blanc Island (also known as Boblo) was out of service for a weekend but resumed functioning later. The ferry was out for four days, with a large crane hoisting it out of the water so repairs could be completed. Town council would pass a motion, calling for a meeting with a solicitor and council members regarding the outage. In March, town council
CPAP SUPPLIES & MACHINES
emerged from an in-camera meeting with a public statement regarding the ferry service. •A dream came true for Amherstburg’s Erica Fryer. Fryer, who completed her university hockey career with the University of Toronto, turned pro and signed with a team in Sweden. Fryer joined her new team SDE. •The Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts, the board that operates the Gibson Gallery, held its AGM. The guest speaker was Meg Reiner from the Marsh Historical Collection, who spoke on railway history in Amherstburg. •Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 received a gift and was the site of a special presentation, all to remember those who have served. A Quilt of Valour was presented followed by the official presentation of a plaque commemorating those who served in World War II. The latest Quilt of Valour was presented to former mayor Wayne Hurst. The plaque was presented by Joe Shaw and his family. •An Amherstburg horse was chosen by Bryer Model Horses to be a Limited Edition model horse for the company’s
75th anniversary. Halcyonia Night Life, known around the barn by his owner as “Ace,” was selected by the company for the honour. •The Bryerswood Youth Camp received $150,000 from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) for the improvements with a ribbon cutting and tour taking place. The money was used to fund upgrades to the kitchen and washroom in the camp’s activity centre. •Amherstburg councillor Molly Allaire was acclaimed as the new chair of the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA). Allaire, along with Councillor Peter Courtney, have represented Amherstburg on the ERCA board since 2022. Windsor city councillor Jim Morrison, who had been the chair, was acclaimed as vice chair. ERCA presented its conservation awards the same night. •Town council passed a motion to approve a $16.4 million project for a reservoir upgrade and redundancy protection project at the Amherstburg Water Treatment Plant. The money came from development charges, water
LOFTS AT ST. ANTHONY - CIRCA 1911
DRIVE-THRU SPECIALTY COMPOUNDING BLISTER PACKS
*Covered Under Your
433 Sandwich St S., Amherstburg
SERVING WINDSOR & ESSEX COUNTY FOR OVER 50 YEARS Residential & Commercial Licenced under O.B.C. and M.O.E
Continued on Page 2
THE
Now Available!
519-736-0972
and highway reserves, OCIF funding. It inlcudes upgrades and replacements. The project was awarded to Amico Design Build Inc. •The TRUE Festival came to Amherstburg with hundreds braving the cold to enjoy the event. The crowds enjoyed shows from “The Fire Guy,” as well as hot chocolate from the Rotary Club of Amherstburg, wheel spinning for prizes thanks to The House Youth Centre, s’more making, live entertainment at surrounding businesses and drag shows. •Another long-term care home for Amherstburg moves ahead after a funding agreement was announced. The Building Ontario Fund entered into an agreement in principle with Arch Corporation to finance four new and redeveloped long-term care homes in rural communities. The 160-bed retirement home is being built next to the Amherstburg Community Hub. The original announcement that Chateau Park Long Term Care Home would relocate to Amherstburg came in 2022.
Preferred Realty Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated
JOHN D’ALIMONTE
TRANSFER IN TODAY - WE DO THE WORK!
519-796-8073
433 Sandwich St S.
Sales Representative
519-736-2223 • apcw.ca
1325 Gore Rd. W., P.0. Box 871, HARROW
www.hernandezsanitation.ca
519-738-3309
2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
www.rivertowntimes.com
The Year in Review - February & March 2025
Continued from Page 1
FEBRUARY •Black History Month kicked off in the region. The Amherstburg Freedom Museum partnered with the River Bookshop on several events with a major event being the Windsor Symphony Orchestra at the Nazrey AME Church. The play “The Price of Freedom” was presented in Windsor in partnership with Arts Collective Theatre (ACT). •Kids Curing Cancer (KCC) holds its biggest fundraiser of the year, as over 200 people attended a pasta dinner at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. Organized by the Baillargeon family and their team of volunteers, the event raised $11,230. Proceeds went to furnish the new MRI suite at Erie Shores Healthcare in Leamington. •The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum held its “Family Fun Day” on Family Day, with a steady stream of people of all ages coming in. The event featured tours and children’s activities though wagon rides were called off due to the drop in temperatures. •Over a dozen new members joined the ranks of the Amherstburg Fire Department. A firefighter graduation ceremony was at fire station #1 where the new firefighters were congratulated on completing their year-long training period. Thirteen firefighters were welcomed with some being auxiliary members. •Over 140 walkers hit the streets of Amherstburg for the local Coldest Night of the Year walk. The Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year (ACNOY) was based out of the Amherstburg Community Hub, where The House Youth Centre is located. The over $41,600 in proceeds go to The House. •Fishing in King’s Navy Yard Park, especially during silver bass season, was back in focus around the council table. Town council voted to launch a public awareness campaign, enhance park management and monitoring with “focused enforcement” with bylaw staff and police and to improve infrastructure in the park through such things as additional signage, waste disposal stations, expanding the approved fishing area in the south end of Navy Yard Park towards the Gordon House and
fencing it off. •The policing issue rose to the forefront again almost six years after the Town of Amherstburg turned to Windsor for service. The City of Windsor informed the Town of Amherstburg it is opting out of the current policing contract. Mayor Michael Prue confirmed the town has been informed of Windsor’s decision. In August, Prue said the town had been discussing renegotiating with Windsor but the city not agreeing to have an Amherstburg representative on the Windsor Police Services Board caused talks to break off. The town’s desire to have a regional police service explored was shot down in April by Essex County council. •Essex County council has opted to reverse its previous decision on how much money it gives to a non-profit economic development organization. Tecumseh Deputy Mayor and Deputy Warden Joe Bachetti brought forth a motion that would reallocate the amount that will go to Invest Windsor-Essex. Back in 2024 when the county was going through its budget deliberations, it was decided to reduce the amount to Invest Windsor-Essex by 15 per cent. Bachetti said he brought forth his motion, which was accepted, in light of new information provided. •Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) named its Top 100 Festivals and Events with four Amherstburg events listed. Those events were Open Air Weekends, the River Lights Winter Festival, the TRUE Festival and the Amherstburg Uncommon Festival. •Anthony Leardi wins a second term as Essex MPP. The Progressive Conservative candidate won in the provincial election. NDP candidate Rachael Mills finished second followed by Liberal candidate Tamara Stomp. Next were Green Party candidate Stephen Higgins, Travis Jacques of the Ontario Party, Brigitte Belton of the New Blue Party, Kevin Linfield of the None of the Above Direct Democracy Party and independent candidate William Szabo Verzoc. MARCH •Almost 200 pasta dinners were sold but, more importantly, a group of children and youth in D.R.
Congo were helped through those meals. The Hope of St. Joseph Inc. presented a pasta dinner fundraiser at the Columbus Community Hall. A total of 172 people ate in-person while roughly another 20 had take-out meals. •The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce held its annual general meeting and reviewed its most recent year. The election of the executive saw Dan Gemus return as president and Ron Bondy as vice president. •The board of directors with the Essex Region Conservation Authority approved its 2025 budget. The board voted that the draft budget totalling $12,215,958 be approved as the 2025 final budget and that the board approve the municipal cost apportionment of $3,053,491, for mandatory programs and services. Further, the board approved the municipal cost apportionment of $327,262, restricted to the seven unanimously supported Category 3 non- mandatory programs and services. •Local women from various professions gathered to discuss issues, challenges and triumphs they have had over their lives. The International Women’s Day event, the “Queens of Business,” was held at G.L. Heritage Brewing Company. The event was co-organized by Jen Desjardin-Grondin and Laura D’Alessandro, co-owners of G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. and the River Town Times respectively. •In a strategy to fight the ongoing threat of tariffs from the United States, Essex County Council joined the Border Mayors Alliance. The seven mayors from the county will be part of the existing group that has, according to Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue, two separate groups, one in the western Canada and the other in the east, the latter chaired by Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. •An electric low speed vehicle (LSV) assembly facility and sales outlet sets up shop in Amherstburg. Icon Electric Vehicles Canada is operating on Renaud St., at the corner of Alma St., with it being owned by Scott Elliott and Mike Bezzoubkin. The LSV’s are mainly fully electric golf carts and recreational vehicles under the Icon EV and Epic golf cart lines.
Continued on Page 3
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 3
www.rivertowntimes.com
Continued from Page 2
The Year in Review - March & April 2025
•Essex MP Chris Lewis awarded about 30 King Charles III Coronation Medals. Recipients included John Garnet “Jack” Edwards, Bill Granger, Ernest Gazdig, Ed Gibbs, Ron Giofu, Sarah Machnik, Tim Byrne, Robin Martin, Andrew Stewart, John Vanthournout, Bruce Lodge, Sandy Repko, Jim Crichton, Brandon Chartier, Donald Lucier, Gilbert Bastien, Linda Lynch, Richard Brooks, MaryMaureen Atkin, Tim McAllister, Jeremy Douglas Sinasac, Christopher Bailey, Jennifer Baggio, John Cappucci, Jennifer Chevalier, Katherine Gunning, Kristin Kennedy, Thomas LeClair, Helen Lewis and Stephanie Zekelman. •Town council’s remuneration for 2024 was made public. Total remuneration for Mayor Michael Prue was $73,221.49. Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb’s amount was $35,212.56. Councillor Diane Pouget’s remuneration for 2024 was listed in a report at $31,339. Councillor Molly Allaire’s 2024 remuneration was listed at $30,236.08. Councillor Linden Crain’s remuneration was $29,353.23. Councillor Peter Courtney saw his total remuneration figure listed as $27,210.99. Councillor Don McArthur had a 2024 remuneration figure of $25,529.40. •The Windsor Police Service made arrests in connection with a house fire in Amherstburg. No physical injuries were reported during a January incident. The fire caused over $1 million in damages to the home and a neighbouring property, police add. The alleged suspects turned themselves in to Windsor Police headquarters. •There is a business licensing bylaw in Amherstburg, but town council turned back the clock for the timebeing. Council reinstated the 2009 business licensing bylaw that was originally repealed in 2023, wanted a further look at updating it all the while bringing in a business registry so it is known by the town exactly who is operating in Amherstburg. •The final house league “Day of Champions” was presented by the Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA). Local players join the Lake Erie
Minor Hockey Association for the 2025-26 hockey season. •Four local food banks got some financial aid thanks to Sobeys. The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, ACS, the Harrow Food Bank and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Society St. John the Baptist Church in Amherstburg split the almost $10,000 that was raised during the campaign. •A large crowd of family, friends and supporters packed the Libro Centre for Skate Amherstburg’s annual ice carnival. This year’s show, which featured skaters of different ages and abilities, was called “Hittin’ the Streets with Rivertown Beats.” •A ceremony was held in Harrow where King Charles III Coronation Medals were awarded. Essex MPP Anthony Leardi hosted the event where medals were presented to Jack Howson, John Fox, Vincent Georgie, William (Bill) Shea and Paul Mastronardi. •The “Sunshine List” was released for 2024. The list of employees with the Town of Amherstburg who topped the $100,000 salary mark in 2024 totalled 34. The County of Essex had 250 employees on the “Sunshine List,” most of them members of EssexWindsor EMS. LaSalle had 88 on the “Sunshine List,” with LaSalle still having its own police force. Leamington had 46 staff members on the list, while Lakeshore had 35. There were 30 from Tecumseh, 27 from Essex and 23 from Kingsville on the list. •Working collaboratively and supporting one another were just two of the theme highlighted at the Warden’s Luncheon. Warden Hilda MacDonald went over her priorities and those of the County of Essex during her address. MacDonald pointed out the region always supports each other. She said the same will happen amid trade tensions with the United States. •A packed house was at Shooters Roadhouse to judge which local band they liked best. The “Battle of the Bands” was presented by Musicland. The four finalists included Two Years Apart, Case the Joint, Meandergreen and the eventual champions Riverside Drive.
APRIL •The Essex County Agricultural Hall of Fame grew by three members. Leslie Huffman Balsillie, Murray McLeod and Robert Repko were inducted at the Harrow Agricultural Exhibition Hall. •Often called “Coach Dan” or “Petta,” Dan Pettypiece has been a fixture at the former AMA Arena and the Libro Centre. For his tireless service to the community for nearly five decades, Pettypiece was honoured at the Libro Centre. Pettypiece started coaching and teaching skating and hockey skills to children, youth and adults in 1976 and doesn’t have any plans on stopping. His dedication and contributions to the community were the subject of kind words, accolades and special presentations during a nearly one-hour ceremony. •ACS and the Town of Amherstburg held a volunteer recruitment fair. The fair was hosted at ACS’ location within the Amherstburg Community Hub with 16 organizations taking part. •The Italian Community within St. John the Baptist Church in Amherstburg held the annual Good Friday procession through the downtown streets. Christ Church and St. Andrew’s Church were included along the route as was a stop in front of Richmond Terrace Long-Term Care Home. •The Ontario Gymnastics Championships returned with events with four days of activity. The event was sponsored by Rose City Gymnastics with president Diana Giorgi saying upwards of 1,300 athletes participated. Giorgi estimated that 5,000 spectators from across Ontario came to the meet. •Town council approved a motion which called for Amherstburg to be removed by the Ontario government from the list of municipalities getting “Strong Mayor” powers. Mayor Michael Prue had the matter added to a council agenda after receiving correspondence from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing informing him of the proposal to expand powers to 169 more municipalities. Despite his objections, Prue was granted the powers anyway.
Continued on Page 4
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 9th @ 4PM
4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Continued from Page 3
www.rivertowntimes.com
The Year in Review - April & May 2025
•A variety of different Easter events are held in and around Amherstburg. •The Jane’s Walk Festival returns to the region, including walking tours and lectures where people could sit. There were walking tours of the downtown core with some of the sites involved being Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, Bois Blanc Island, Marsh Historical Collection, Art Windsor-Essex, Park House Museum and more. •The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) celebrated the planting of its seven millionth tree. •The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association held its final travel banquet before the organization amalgamated with Erie North Shore Minor Hockey to become the new Lake Erie Minor Hockey Association. Lifetime Achievement Awards went to Marc Renaud, Joe Laframboise, Rosemary Fryer, Leonard Mailloux, Dan Pettypiece, Paul Tonietto and Dennis Emerson. •Earth Day events are held in Amherstburg with the town itself hosting a tree planting and tree giveaway with the Bryerswood Youth Camp also busy with environmentally friendly activities. •Conservative candidate Chris Lewis won his third federal election in the Essex riding and returned as the Member of Parliament. He defeated three challengers - Liberal candidate Chris Sutton, NDP candidate Lori Wightman and People’s Party of Canada candidate Jason Henry. •Friends and family of Vera Badiuk filled the hall at Encounter Church to
celebrate a significant milestone in her life. Badiuk was honoured on the occasion of her 100th birthday last Saturday. Her family calls it “100 years of perfection.” •Volunteers greatly aid the operations of Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) with the agency giving back to them. Staff members with ACS wore airline attire resembling pilots and stewardesses as they welcomed the nearly 100 volunteers that turned out at the AMA Sportsmen Association. A similar event was hosted by the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Asssociation in May. MAY •Approximately 300 people attend a job fair for the newest Mercato Fresh store, which is the fourth store in the chain. The new store is located at 365 Sandwich St. S. •Students at Anderdon Public School got a chance to show their singing, dancing and acting skills as the local elementary school presented “A Kids’ Life” with multiple productions in the gymnasium. •The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) presented its 20th annual Business Excellence Awards. James H. Sutton Funeral Home was recognized for its 120th anniversary, the Amherstburg Freedom Museum for its 50th anniversary and the River Town Times for its 30th anniversary. •The St. Clair College “Alumni of Distinction” awards had some Amherstburg representation. Chuck Kelly, currently the president and CEO with Movati Athletics, was presented the
award at a banquet at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts in Windsor. He is a 1991 graduate of the Ambulance and Emergency Care program at the college. •An open house regarding a proposed new nine-hole disc golf course at Holiday Beach Conservation Area brought out over 100 people to the Libro Centre, the bulk of whom were opposed. The opposition to the disc golf course led to the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) opting not to proceed with it later in the year, as they voted to rescind direction to put in a disc golf course and to continue dialogue with park users for other recreational opportunities. •Residents of Bois Blanc (Boblo) Island received an update on where the natural gas expansion project is at. Enbridge held a barbecue and meet-and-greet on the island where residents got a chance to hear what progress is being made in getting their homes natural gas. At the time, it was said construction was scheduled to be completed on the north end of the island by the first quarter of 2026. •A new town crier is appointed in Amherstburg. Norm Ross, a retired principal and drama teacher, is officially appointed. He succeeds Frank Gorham, who is retired from the position. •The “Luncheon with the Mayors” event was presented by Community Living Essex County (CLEC) with municipal representatives from across Essex County hearing more about the organization and what they can do to employ those with disabilities. •The owners of the local Sobeys franchise, the staff and the community as a
whole haven’t forgotten a key member of the store’s team. A fundraiser was held at Sobeys to raise money for a new prosthetic leg for Bill Blackwell, the grocery store’s produce manager. Store owners Rick and Krista Truant said they wanted to do something to give back. •The large charity yard sale for the Hope of St. Joseph Shelters returned to the home of Mary and Marc Beneteau. The sale was smaller than in past years and operated on only one weekend. •The starting line at this year’s Dare2B Challenged welcomed over 300 participants. An annual event to celebrate physical fitness for girls and women, for the third consecutive year it was held at Holiday Beach Conservation Area. •It was a milestone year for the regional Motorcycle Ride for Dad and it is a milestone year annually as well. The Windsor Motorcycle Ride for Dad saw the first stop at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 again this year. The Amherstburg Legion once again gave back as they presented local Ride organizers with a donation of $1,500. •Those who suffered cardiac arrest in 2024 were reconnected with those who helped save them. Essex-Windsor EMS presented its 12th annual “Survivor Day” at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts. Stories of 26 survivors were shared with the first responders who helped save them also highlighted. The Survivor Day cases involved 63 paramedics, 69 firefighters, nine ambulance communications officers, seven Canada Border Services Agency officers and 23 civilians.
Continued on Page 5
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission gives thanks for support during 2025 As another year comes to a close, we want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the people of Amherstburg for the incredible support shown to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission throughout the year. Your generosity, compassion, and willingness to help do not go unnoticed and are never taken for granted. We are deeply grateful for the many volunteers who continue to step forward to support the Mission. It truly takes many hands to do this work, and with some of our long-time volunteers aging and others experiencing burnout, the arrival of new faces has been a tremendous blessing.
Every extra set of hands makes a difference, and we are so thankful to those who have chosen to give their time and energy to help others. This year, we were fortunate to have two major fundraisers — our annual golf tournament and the release of the Amherstburg Celebrity Cookbook. In addition, we are extremely appreciative of the many can drives and fundraising efforts organized on our behalf. Local businesses, schools, churches, service clubs, unions, and individuals all stepped up to plan and run events in support of the Mission. Organizing fundraisers requires significant time and resources, so Member of the
Ontario Community Newspaper Association
This project is funded in part by the
PRINTERS AND PUBLISHERS - Publications Mail Registration No. 09204. Published every Wednesday
Government of Canada
80 Richmond Street, Amherstburg ON N9V 1E9 519-736-4175 mail@rivertowntimes.com sales@rivertowntimes.com
Laura D’Alessandro SALES / CO-PUBLISHER
Matthew Zaidan GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Ron Giofu
EDITOR / CO-PUBLISHER
Ian Phillips
PROOFREADER (VOLUNTEER)
Advertisements and inserts do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the River Town Times.
having others take on the heavy lifting for us is something we value immensely. We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Town of Amherstburg for their ongoing support, and especially for allowing us to operate a booth at the Uncommon Festival and retain the proceeds. Opportunities like this make a meaningful impact on our ability to serve the community. Times continue to be challenging, and we understand that the need for our services will continue to grow in the year ahead. Even so, we have strong faith in our community and take comfort in knowing that Amherstburg has always found a
way to care for its own. Our hope is that anyone who finds themselves in need — now or in the future — will find a welcoming and supportive resource at the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, whether they are seeking a hot lunch, a monthly food basket, clothing, fellowship, or simply a place where they are treated with dignity and respect. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us. Your kindness and generosity make our work possible. —Tim McAllister, President and the Board of Directors Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission
Opinions, concerns voiced about Murray St.
It has come to my attention that there are a few business owners interested in closing Murray St. from Ramsay St. to Dalhousie St. Shutting it completely down to vehicles and with limited access. It is my understanding at the Amherstburg Economic Development Committee (EDC) meeting on January 15 at 5 p.m., could see this closure could be an agenda item or be brought up under new business. The EDC makes recommendations to council, just as it did regarding a two year extension of Open Air. The closure of Murray St. would be dreadful and negatively impact the residents. For example, driver stress, traffic diversion and congestion, emergency vehicle access, deliveries/waste
collection, business impact, accessibility issues, perception of lack of safety and vibrancy, disruption to vehicle transit, maintenance fees, inadequate supporting infrastructure, planning in equities and more. Those living on neighbouring streets would have added traffic, loss of street parking, benefitting only a few business owners and added expense to the taxpayers (additional bylaw enforcement, administration to carry out the licences and more). Start getting involved folks, e-mail council your concerns today. —Peggy Russchen Amherstburg
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 5
www.rivertowntimes.com
Continued from Page 4
The Year in Review - May & June 2025
•Town council authorized administration to negotiate an agreement with PaxPitch Sports for the installation and operation of a new cricket pitch at Anderdon Park. PaxPitch paid for the development of the pitch, with the aim to add another at Pat Thrasher Park in 2026. •Open Air Weekends returned and lasted into the fall, with some themed weekends along the way. The 14-weekend program kicked off with a night market, the “Bagpipes in the Burg” parade, town crier Norm Ross, live music and more. •Economic Development Week was held, organized by the town’s economic development department. An “Entrepreneurial Spotlight Panel” kicked off the week, with networking events, a job fair, workshops, and walking tours part of the activities. •The fight against cancer got a boost thanks to St. Thomas of Villanova Catholic Secondary School. Villanova held its Relay for Life with the event starting in sunshine in the early afternoon and ending at night in the rain. It raised approximately $124,500. Sofia Borrowman, a Grade 11 student who co-captained the organizing committee with friend Michela La Porta, said the school raised $72,000 in its last Relay for Life in 2023. •The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival returned, several weeks earlier than usual, to take advantage of cooler temperatures. Dock diving, dog luring, Windsor police K-9 demonstrations, hunting dog demos, the Border City Barkers, vendors, and more were featured that weekend. •The Amherstburg Freedom Museum held the latest in its “Freedom Achievers” series and it featured Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers. Rogers spoke to students from around Essex County and Windsor who are part of the Black Student Leadership Committee. JUNE •Veterans and Legion members who have died in the past year were honoured. Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 presented its annual Decoration Day service at the cenotaph in King’s Navy Yard Park. The Amherstburg Legion’s colour guard conducted a short parade from the parkette down to the cenotaph and the service began after that. •The keys to the Brentwood Dream Home were presented. David Taylor received the keys to the home at 28 Brittany Cr. in Amherstburg. It was the grand prize of the 2024 Brentwood Dream Home Lottery, with the winners announced in January. The home was constructed by Nor-Built Construction of Amherstburg. •Curtis Realba of the Fighting Island Boxing Club won a Canadian National Championship in Quebec
Daily E-Waste Drop Off at the following: Joe Meloche Ford Amherstburg Harrow & Colchester South Arena Computers for Kids Windsor Essex Centre Sports Complex Lally Southpoint Ford Leamington We offer FREE PICKUPS for Corporations & Businesses
www.cfkcanada.org For more information please call
519-253-KIDS (5437) 4150 Sandwich St. Windsor ON Registered Charity # 860001437RR0001
Check out our website!
Carsyn Atkinson and Drew Shank. Spirit Awards went to Jaden Taba and Julia Mailloux. •The Amherstburg Freedom Museum fundraiser “Ribs & Ragtime” returned, this one having a special meaning. This year’s event was presented during the 50th anniversary for the museum. As part of the festivities, the formal dedication and sign unveiling for a portion of King St. was held. The block between Gore St. and Simcoe St. now has the additional designation as “Mac Simpson Way.” •The Active Aging Expo was at the Libro Centre with vendors, line dancing demonstrations, wine and spirit samples, singing and more offered throughout the day. It was presented by the Town of Amherstburg’s recreation department and ACS. •The Ministry of Transportation approved Boblo Island as part of an expanded golf cart pilot program. A letter from Raj Cheema, manager of the road safety program development office with the MTO announced the approval via a letter. •Community Living Essex County held its Annual Meeting of the Members (AMM) and mourned the loss of chair Sue Desjarlais during the meeting. Desjarlais, also a LaSalle councillor, died in April. Several awards were also presented that night. •A Community Care Fair was held with it being hosted by a number of community partners. Held on a lot between two Victoria St. S. apartment buildings, it featured the Windsor Police Service as one of the hosts. Over 15 vendors attended the event, with the vendors providing services to the community. •The St. Clement Church Catholic Women’s League (CWL) commemorated its 90th anniversary with a Mass in St. Clement Church followed by a dinner and banquet at the Columbian Club Hall in McGregor. President Diana Coyle recalled the history of the St. Clement CWL and pointed out Elizabeth Bissonnette was the first president when the charter was received in 1935. •A new exhibit was launched at the Park House Museum. “We Were Always Here” was created by curator Kat Bezaire and summer students Callie McRorie and Emily Trepanier. The exhibit highlights historic members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and ran until the end of August. •The eight pickleball courts at the Libro Centre started getting used as the grand opening took place. A ribbon cutting featuring members of town council, the Amherstburg Pickleball Association (APA) and other supporters took place as part of a tournament. The cost of the new courts was $468,568.31. •Ribfest returned to Ramsay St. with crowds coming through to enjoy ribs from three ribbers and other food items. It was presented by the Dan Gemus Real Estate Team.
City. He won in the U17 48 kg category. The 14-yearold Realba stated he fought twice while in Quebec City, winning both fights. His goal when he climbs into the ring is to “go in there and get my hand raised.” The gold medal bout was against a 17-year-old but Realba didn’t know that until after he beat him. •A house fire in Malden Centre displaced a local family and caused between $800,000-$900,000 damage. The damage estimate came from the Amherstburg Fire Department, who were called to the structure fire. The home, located on Durango Ave., was destroyed. The fire was not considered suspicious. No other homes were damaged. •The fight against cancer got a shot in the arm thanks to the McGregor Music Festival again this year. Eight bands, a pig auction, car show, raffles and more were among the highlights. All proceeds benefit the patient assistance fund with the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation. It was announced in July the festival raised $85,000. •A show entitled “Travel through Time” was filmed by YourTV. Crews were in Amherstburg, including a stop at the Park House Museum where three episodes were filmed. Another show was centred around the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. Other locations were the Canadian Aviation Museum, John R. Park Homestead, and Willistead Manor. •The AMA Sportsmen’s Club hosted the Bob Meloche Fishing Derby on Father’s Day. Young anglers up to 12 years of age cast their lines. Several club members set up in Navy Yard Park measuring the fish while others, including Bob Meloche’s son Gord, were at the club measuring and recording. •Amherstburg resident and volleyball player Makenna McCann played in the 16U Girls All Canadian Volleyball Games. The event was hosted by founder and Canadian comedian Gerry Dee and it held in Orangeville. It involved 24 of the best volleyball athletes from across Canada in the 16U age division. •The first-ever Fort Malden Medieval Faire was held at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada. Presented by Faires.ca, the medieval festival featured jousting, treboucher launching, birds of prey, stage shows featuring Zoltan the Adequate, Sibling Rivalry and Men in Tights, aerialists and pirate cannon shows. •North Star High School held its athletic banquet. June Buchner won Female Athlete of the Year, Owen Scott captured Male Athlete of the Year, Lauren Essenpreis won Female Student Athlete of the Year and Traven Fines won Male Student Athlete of the Year. The Coaches Award of Excellence went to Wyatt Jackson while the Most Dedicated Athletes were Camryn Carmack and Sawyer Krokos. Emma Rudling and Isiah Rusenstrom won the Athlete-Plus Award while Sportsmanship Awards were won by
Continued on Page 6
GOD LOVES YOU
BRANCH 157 AMHERSTBURG
AND HAS PROVIDED FOR YOUR SALVATION THRU HIS SON JESUS CHRIST Will you accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour & Lord today?
WEEKLY SCHEDULE
The Bible says: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:9 Pray this prayer from your heart today: Dear Jesus, I believe you died for my sins and rose again the third day. And I accept you now as my Lord and Saviour. By believing this in my heart, I know that I am now saved and am a child of God. Thank you for hearing me, and your love for me. I know you will keep me by your spirit thru your word the Holy Bible.
Welcome to hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ at:
rivertowntimes.com
246 King St, Amherstburg Sunday Service - 11am Bible Study Tuesday 6pm Pastor Maynard Hurst 519-736-4110
BINGO
7:00
PM
T U E S DAY
TASTY TUESDAYS LADIES DARTS*
11 - 2 6-9
PM PM
W E D N E S DAY
MEAT DRAW DROP-IN POOL
5:00 7:00
PM PM
T H U R S DAY
CHAIR YOGA*
11:00
AM
FAMOUS CHICKEN
3-6
PM
F R I DAY
FISH FRY KARAOKE MIXED DARTS
3-6 7:00 7:30
PM PM PM
SAT U R DAY
CRAFT CLUB*/EUCHRE 1:00
PM
LIVE MUSIC & SPECIAL EVENTS
Thank you, Amen.
MOUNT BEULAH CHURCH
M O N DAY
`
THURSDAY, JANUARY 8 EXECUTIVE MEETING - 7:00PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 10 BACK 2 BACK - 7:00-11:00PM THURSDAY, JANUARY 15 GENERAL MEETING - 7:00PM SATURDAY, JANUARY 17 OUT OF BOUNDS - 7:00-11:00PM TUESDAY, JANUARY 20 *NEW HORIZONS SPEAKER: SENIOR SCAMS - 10:30-11:30
* 281 DALHOUSIE ST., AMHERSTBURG • 519-736-4 485
6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
www.rivertowntimes.com
The Year in Review - June, July & August 2025
Continued from Page 5
•Four track and field athletes from North Star High School competed at the OFSAA meet in Toronto. Wakan Rainville won a gold medal in the junior boys 100m hurdles. Tyler Lamarche won bronze in the junior girls shot put. Ava Mayrand won eighth in discus and placed tenth in shot put at the junior girls level. Emma Rudling finished 19th in steeplechase and 17th in the 3000m at the senior level. •The “Fill the Bus” food collection drive returned with three organizations benefitting. Buses were parked at Sobeys, No Frills and Walmart. Mercato Fresh also assisted. Donations were made to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) and Be The Light Outreach Ministry. JULY •Canada Day festivities were held in Amherstburg. Approximately 1,030 people take part in the Canada Day Run, Walk & Wheel 5K with $23,870 raised. That money goes to Amherstburg Community Services, the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission and the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club. Canada Day saw the town host events in Toddy Jones Park including a look at the “Mighty Machines” (town-owned vehicles), a visit from the Amherstburg Fire Department ladder truck, games, food, dancing from the Rivertown Dance Academy, hockey on the grass thanks to the Amherstburg Admirals, live entertainment and fireworks. Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada was also busy with activities including cannon firings and musical entertainment.
•The demolition of the former Boblo stated it is investing $25,700 through the Island dock on Front Road South finally Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) takes place after funding comes through Capital grant stream to support WEBC from the federal government. After only in expanding cycling infrastructure and a couple of days, the twisted dock was youth programming in Essex County. removed from the Detroit River, alle- The OTF grant was used over a six month viating safety concerns many residents period to purchase equipment, storage solutions, and a bike repair station. had. •The Amherstburg Art Crawl returned, •Residents of Concession 6 North want to see their road upgraded and took with events and activities geared for action. An online petition was circulated, youth and adults. Starting with the Art started by Kerry McGrail, whose parents Crawl Social at The O and ending with Mike and Nancy live on the road. It asks a Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) the stretch between Alma St. and County brass quintet in King’s Navy Yard Park, Road 10 be redone. The petition, found the weekend was filled with tours, stops on Change.org and called “Fix the 6th,” at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, calls for the work to be done quicker than the Park House Museum, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church and the Marsh the town’s current projected timeline. •The proposed mixed use plan for Historical Collection, unveilings of new the former General Amherst High murals, plein air and on-street artists School site will proceed. Amherstburg and artisans, a Junior Art Crawl, and town council approved an Official Plan a performance by The Bishop Boys. It amendment and a zoning bylaw amend- was organized by the Art Amherstburg ment and that means the proposal by the Society. •Council members and staff from Valente Development Corporation has cleared a major hurdle as they attempt to both Amherstburg and Essex gathered redevelop the site. While an addition to in McGregor to celebrate a new accesthe motion to approve the amendments sible playground. The ribbon was cut called for the town to ask administration on the new playground at Co-An Park to work with the developer on the issues with each of the two towns putting in of lighting, traffic, garbage, fire protect, roughly $200,000 apiece towards the new access to the site and other related issues, amenity. the plan for 130 Sandwich St. S. is moving •Essex-Windsor EMS launched a new forward. Those plans call for an eight- initiative to get life-saving AEDs into the storey residential tower, an 11-storey hands of organizers of events and gatherresidential tower and commercial space ings across Windsor-Essex County. EMS’ while trying to preserve historic facades program allows the public to sign out – for of the former public high school. free – an Automatic External Defibrillator •The Windsor-Essex Bike Community from Essex-Windsor EMS (EWEMS). (WEBC) got a grant from the Ontario Learn more about the AED loaner Trillium Foundation to help with itsT:10.25" program and fill out an online form to programming. The Ontario government get one for an event or gathering: www.
Scott didn’t receive an organ transplant, but an organ transplant saved his life Because thanks to an organ donor, his wife Katie received a lifesaving transplant.
Organ and tissue donation saves more lives than you think Register to be a donor at ontario.ca/BeADonor Paid for by the Government of Ontario
countyofessex.ca/emergency-services/ automated-external-defibrillators/ aed-loaner-program/. •The Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show was held with portions of Richmond St., Dalhousie St., Ramsay St., Murray St., Rankin St., North St. and all of Toddy Jones Park packed with vehicles and people. Over 580 vehicles were estimated to have come out. The Paulie Award for best in show, named for former town councillor and car show co-founder Paul Renaud, was won by Mark DiMilo from Leamington and his 1970 Plymouth Cuda.
AUGUST •Emancipation Day took a bit of a different turn this year but the events surrounding it that mark the anniversary of the day slavery in Canada was abolished still took place. The Amherstburg Freedom Museum held events as Aug. 1 was the day in 1834 that the Slavery Abolition Act came into effect. The museum was open Aug. 1 free-of-charge to allow people to come in, view film screenings, have guided tours or just look at the exhibits on their own. •Colleagues, friends and family of Karen Bolger gathered to celebrate her retirement from Community Living Essex County after a 40-year career. Bolger started her career as a support worker, worked her way up and was the agency’s executive director for the last seven years. Bolger thanked her co-workers, the board of directors, partner agencies, friends and her family for the support she received over the last 40 years.
Continued on Page 7
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 7
www.rivertowntimes.com
•The Living History Festival was held at Fort Malden with encampments, musket firings, artillery demonstrations, fashion shows, bagpipe shows, cooking demonstrations and more. A number of different community groups such as the Marsh Historical Collection, Gibson Gallery, Amherstburg Freedom Museum, Park House Museum, Canadian Transportation Museum, Caldwell First Nation were also part of it. Debra Honor was on hand selling her book “The Lives That Touched Belle Vue Amherstburg.” •Council rejected a recommendation to assume infrastructure on Boblo Island. The recommendation called for the town to assume underground infrastructure, curbs and the concrete roadway on the south end of the island but the motion failed on a 4-3 vote. Mayor Michael Prue cast the deciding vote, stating he walked the roads of the south end. Five photos that he took were placed on the large screen in the council chambers with Prue asking administration on how they were repaired and what happened. •Any notion of Amherstburg working with Windsor to renegotiate a new policing contract for policing looks to be finished. Windsor had already notified Amherstburg of its intention to end the current policing contract at the end of 2028. Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkins told the River Town Times in February it was “a dollars and cents issue” as the contract signed in late 2018 no longer made sense for the city. Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue said they had tried to work with Windsor to see about getting a new deal, but announced the town is moving on. The issue that was raised was not financial, he indicated, and that it was the city’s rejection of a town request to have a vote on the Windsor Police Services Board. •The history of agriculture was on display at Co-An Park in McGregor. The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Show was held with Allis Chalmers being the featured brand. The show was presented by the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum. Museum president Gary Struhar estimated there were at least 100 pieces of antique farm equipment and steam engines at the show. Museum members offered up their equipment
for the show while others with antique equipment also put them on display. •The Amherstburg Summer Baseball Classic capped the U8 team’s season and the local team won it all. The Amherstburg Cardinals U8 team won the tournament at Bill Wigle Park, finishing the day with an 11-6 victory in the championship game over the Woodslee Orioles. Beau Schiefer was named tournament MVP for Amherstburg. •Work comes to Concession 8 North after town council approved a tender for the project. The tender was awarded to D’Amore Construction for $2,641,028, excluding GST. The plan was to fully construct the road from Alma St. to 680 metres north of Texas Road, with the work being completed in November. That project got started as work on the George and Seymour streets project concluded. •Art by the River attracts over 9,500 people to the grounds of Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada. The 58th annual arts and crafts show is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Gibson Gallery. Artists, artisans, food vendors, authors, a plein air art contest, kids zone and entertainers were across the grounds during the event. •The Ontario Summer Football League (OSFL) named its all-stars and an Amherstburg player was one of them. Drake Ouellette, an offensive lineman, made the OSFL’s Bantam AAA all-star team. •New homes are going to be able to come to town thanks to provincial funding. Essex MPP Anthony Leardi announced that the Town of Amherstburg received over $9.3 million - $9,306,990 to be exact – under the HousingEnabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF) to build approximately 1,101 homes in the southeast quadrant of town. Those lands are owned by four separate developers and are near Lowes Side Road, Fryer St. and nearby areas. The money will help with the installation of sanitary and potable water infrastructure. It includes a new sanitary pumping station, a force main, sewers and watermain. •A ribbon cutting was held for Al-Noor Private School and the Windsor Islamic High School, both being located at the former Western Secondary School. The elementary school has approximately 350 students. The high school
had about 100 students registered. •The issue over a back-up ferry to Bois Blanc Island, one that garnered significant interest from the Town of Amherstburg, saw some good news result as the back-up ferry “Columbia” returned. It joins the regular and larger ferry “Ste. Claire” as ways to get residents back and forth to the island. •The Fighting Island Boxing Club sent a pair of fighters to the novice provincial championships at the BMO Centre in London and both came home with a medal. Adrian Strong was a gold medalist, winning in the 75kg weight class. Ben Evola captured a silver medal in the 80 kg weight class. •One of the town’s largest employers announced it is shutting down operations locally. Diageo plans to close its St. Arnaud St. facility by February 2026, making the announcement, stunning the community with its late August announcement. Reports say employees were called to a meeting and informed of the news. The union that represents the employees said they will work hard to oppose the decision and plans on meeting with company officials to keep the jobs in Amherstburg. Reports have varied between 160-200 employees that will be impacted. A rally was held within days of the announcement to support the workers inside the Amherstburg bottling plant. The company plans to keep other Canadian locations open, including Manitoba, the GTA and Quebec. •The accessibility advisory committee looked at plans for the King’s Navy Yard Park extension. Drawings show a semi-circle pathway around the northern part of the property that leads to the waterfront, with a pathway along the shoreline. •The Amherstburg Soccer Club (ASC) marked the end of its travel season with a banquet at the Ciociaro Club. Players from the U8 division to the U18 level were honoured. •The third phase of the cycling trails at the Libro Centre officially opened. The project was carried out in large part by the Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC), in partnership with the Town of Amherstburg.
Continued on Page 8
SEE WHY EVERYONE IS MAKING THE CHANGE
Short wait times All drug plans accepted Free dosette/pill box service Full service pharmacy We do all the work... just a phone call away
Health First
721 Front Rd. South, Amherstburg
519-730-0001 Located inside the family health team building
Sandwich St. S. Dalhousie St. Lowes Side Rd.
Continued from Page 6
The Year in Review - August 2025
FREE DELIVE RY!
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
8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Continued from Page 7
The Year in Review - September 2025
SEPTEMBER •The Harrow Fair brought together families, farmers, and fairgoers for a weekend of tradition, competition, and entertainment. This year’s new addition — the outhouse races — proved to be an instant hit with the crowd. •The Amherstburg Celebrity Cookbook was unveiled at a launch at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. Proceeds from the cookbook benefit the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, with mission president Tim McAllister featured on the cover. Creation of the Amherstburg Celebrity Cookbook was led by mission board member and volunteer Jill Kanwischer, her cousin Annie Hall from OurRecipeTree.com and Kanwischer’s sister Jane Berthiaume. Copies of the cookbook sell quickly. • “Battle in the Burg” returned to Shooters Roadhouse. It was organized by the Fighting Island Boxing Club (FIBC). The main event saw Fighting Island’s Curtis Realba defeat Grayson O’Conner from Beaver Boxing Club. FIBC owner/coach Joe LeBlanc was also honoured as he was given a championship belt as a tribute by the boxing community. •The Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee presented the “Accessibility Fest-For-All” at the Libro Centre, with the first event having been last year in Colchester. Activities included a Miracle League baseball game, fitness classes for different abilities, adaptive yoga, an Aphasia Friendly Canada information session offered by the University of Windsor, raffles, and sledge hockey courtesy of the Windsor Ice Bullets. •The Festival of Hawks was held at Holiday Beach Conservation Area. It was presented by the Holiday Beach Migration Observatory and the Essex Region Conservation Authority. Banding demonstrations, bird watching, an owl prowl, educational demonstrations and more were part of the weekend. •An initiative to aid homeless veterans and those nearing homelessness came to Windsor-Essex County and Chatham-Kent. The “Ruck to Remember” was held with participants carrying ruck sacks weighing about 50 pounds each to and from participating Legions in the area. One of the participating Legions was Royal
Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157. Participants “rucked” for four days, with ruckers walking approximately 140 kilometres in four days. •The Pensioner’s Cottage at the Park House Museum reached its fundraising target for repairs building. Thanks to a $10,000 donation from the Stephen P. Copeland Foundation, the museum has surpassed its fundraising goal of $9,000. Over $2,000 was already raised by the museum. •Members of the Amherstburg Fire Department, including seven retiring members, were honored. Capt. Bill Scott, Capt. Tom Morand, Capt. Dave Varney, Capt. B.J. Wilder, Capt. Nick Renaud, Capt. Adam Mann and •World War II veteran Bill Shea served his community as both a soldier and later a police officer. But at 100-years-old, the veteran recently faced one of his most difficult battles after being delayed at a British Columbia hospital. Shea traveled to B.C. with his family but he fell ill and was admitted to hospital, where he remained for more than three weeks. An anonymous donor stepped up with the money to help pay for Shea’s flight home. •A memorial Mass and a tribute reception that followed paid tribute to Father Donato Lwiyando, who served in Amherstburg from 2015-17 before returning to his homeland to run a shelter for girls impacted by violence and poverty. He died of cancer in June at age 61. The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter has since expanded to include two more shelters. The Mass was conducted by Father Brian Jane, the former head priest at St. John the Baptist Church before he was transferred to Sarnia. A reception was hosted by the James H. Sutton Funeral Home. •Legion Week was held with a parade and unveilings of projects that have been in the works. Capt. Ernie Gazdig CD presented Legion Br. 157 a print. The image was donated by the Windsor Regiment for the support the Legion shows them. Legion president Shawn Wilkie also unveiled the first of the banners that were installed along Sandwich St. S. just before Remembrance Day. Town council approved the banners with veterans’ pictures, names, ranks and years of service to go up along Sandwich St. between North St. and Park St. Also
www.rivertowntimes.com
unveiled were the “Veterans Way” signs that went up on street signs along Dalhousie St. in the downtown core. •The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission held its annual general meeting they went over the 2024-25 year. Mission president McAllister and board secretary Shannon Dobson were each given Volunteer Service Awards for their work for the mission. Dobson is the board secretary. •The dream of Mac and Betty Simpson became reality five decades ago and it is alive and well. The Amherstburg Freedom Museum, originally known as the North American Black Historical Museum, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a gala at the Caboto Club. The keynote speaker was Bishop Paul S. Morton, a former Windsor resident who now lives in New Orleans. He started and oversees several churches in the southern U.S. and several members of his family were also there. Morton and his family accepted the 2025 Legacy Hero Award on behalf the late Bishop Clarence Leslie Morton Sr. •The final McGregor Mug Run & Beer Festival was held at Co-An Park. A 5K run/walk was held with it starting and ending at Co-An Park. Race organizer Ryan Raymond has moved his event to his new home near the town of Schomberg in King Township. •The Amherstburg Uncommon Festival returned with events, entertainment and activities on downtown streets with additional vendors, children’s activities and events in Navy Yard Park. The Provincial Marine also had activities at the commissariat with the Park House Museum also hosting cooking classes and paranormal investigations in partnership with PO3 Paranormal. Costume contests were held, and while most people were from Amherstburg or other municipalities around Essex County and Windsor, some of the announced contest participants were in town from Tillsonburg, Cambridge, and Seaforth. •Canada Post and its unionized employees were at an impasse with those represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) returning to the picket lines. The picket lines lasted a few weeks before the union switched to rotating strikes.
Continued on Page 9
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 9
www.rivertowntimes.com
Year in Review - Sept. & Oct. 2025 Pre-plan starting as low
Continued from Page 8
•With 2025 being the “Year of the Tree” in Amherstburg, the town planted new trees in Briar Ridge Park. Before that, local residents, business and groups were presented Environmental Stewardship Awards. An outdoor ceremony was held at Briar Ridge Park, with a dozen awards announced. Mayor Michael Prue was joined many of his council colleagues and members of administration at the ceremony. •The Town of Amherstburg held ribbon cuttings at local parks. An accessible trail was opened at Jack Purdie Park, with help from the Purdie family. Members of the Thrasher family were at Pat Thrasher Park for the dedication of the new basketball court. •A request to get costs for the 2025 version of Open Air Weekends was defeated on a 3-3 tie vote. Voting in favour were Councillor Diane Pouget, Councillor Peter Courtney and Councillor Molly Allaire with Councillor Don McArthur, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb and Mayor Michael Prue voting against. Councillor Linden Crain was absent. •National Day of Truth and Reconciliation was observed in Amherstburg. Truth and Reconciliation events took place mainly in King’s Navy Yard Park and at the Park House Museum. Events included drumming, vendors, storytelling, a screening of the film “When The Leaves Turn Yellow,” servings of corn soup and bannock, yoga and children’s activities. OCTOBER •Crown Royal could be leaving LCBO shelves due to the planned Diageo plant closure in Amherstburg. The bottling plant on St. Arnaud St. faces closure in Feb. 2026 and Premier Doug Ford has threatened to pull the company’s products from the LCBO, including Crown Royal. Ford appeared at a rally in Brampton and told the crowd that Crown Royal would be leaving store shelves next February upon closure of the plant. •The County of Essex is anticipating there will be more people living in the area and they are preparing a new Transportation Master Plan. A plan has not been done since 2005 and the new one, once approved, will set a course for up to 2051. •The Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) held its Fall Fair with it an opportunity to showcase the agency, what they do and raise some funds as well. About 50 volunteers helped with the event. There were 64 vendors with the Border City Barkers being another attraction. •Fire Prevention Week was observed with the Amherstburg Fire Department holding an open house at the Libro Centre. Fire trucks were on hand and families also enjoyed a barbecue and received fire safety materials from members of the department. •A tender for $214,203.78 including HST was approved for enhancements to the Simcoe St. and Meloche Road intersection. Work that was undertaken at the intersection included a four-way stop, concrete curbs, accessible sidewalks and the implementation of traffic calming measures. The intersection was closed for three weeks in November for the work to be completed. •The Architectural Conservancy of Ontario (ACO) presented its Heritage Awards in Toronto, and there were two winners with Amherstburg connections. The building at 79-81 Murray St. captured the Paul Oberman Award for Adaptive Reuse in the Small-Scale/Individual/Small Business category. The Amherstburg Freedom Museum won the ACO Public Education and Engagement Award. •An alleged incident involving a town committee member and a town staff member will be the subject of an integrity commissioner investigation. While originally expected to be an in-camera meeting item, town council voted to conduct the matter in public session. Councillor Don McArthur believed the matter should be held in the open and was the one who requested it not be in-camera. •The Greater Essex County District School Board accepts the resignation of Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee Ron LeClair. After an application and interview process, the position (along with one in Leamington/Pelee Island) was filled by the public board. Chandrika Abhang was later appointed to the Amherstburg/LaSalle trustee position. •Visitors to North Star High School got an early jump on their Christmas shopping as over 200 vendors packed the building for the annual Pumpkinfest. Several North Star students helped out during the day including greeters who welcomingly took donations at the door. •“Sully’s Monster Dash” was held by the family of Sully Lowe at Holiday Beach Conservation Area. At least 150 walkers and runners participated in the event. Roughly $10,000 was raised for the Children’s Hospital at the London Health Sciences Centre.
Continued on Page 10
as $35/month.
Save hundreds, even * thousands of dollars. To learn more, call:
226-640-5371
*
Described payment plan includes the essential items to facilitate cremation. Payment plan options vary, please call for full details 226-640-5371.
Owned and Operated by Arbor Memorial Inc.
Obituaries Conti nued on Pag e 14
Renaud, Joseph Daniel It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Joseph Renaud, a devoted husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend, who passed away on December 28th, 2025, at the age of 83. Joe was a man known for his kindness, quiet strength, faith, and work ethic. Above all else, he cherished his family. He was a guiding presence, a steady source of wisdom, and a constant reminder of what it means to love unconditionally. His lessons were often taught not with words, but through his examples. He worked for the Windsor Salt Mine for 34 years before retiring (1967-2001). He found joy in hunting, fishing, and family gatherings. His presence filled a room with comfort, and his absence will be greatly missed. Joseph was a devoted husband to Barbara (nee Sinasac), loving father to Darren, Jodi (Mike Belisle) and Darcey (Nicole Dauphinais). Joseph is survived by his four grandchildren, Jake, Dana, Ashley, Alaina and was predeceased by his grandchild, Lucas (2001). Joe has many nieces and nephews that will miss him dearly. Joseph is reunited with his parents William and Hilda Renaud, siblings, Clifford (2005), Kay (2008), Frank (2015), Chuck (2003), Hazel (2013), Theresa (2008), Mary Jane (2024), Bud (2016), Florence (1978), and Shirley (2022). Survived by sister, Elaine Simpson. Visitation will take place on Thursday, January 1st from 6-9pm at James H Sutton Funeral Home. (401 Sandwich St S, Amherstburg) with a prayer service at 8pm. A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 2nd at 11am at St John the Baptist Church (225 Brock St, Amherstburg). Interment to follow at St. Simon St. Jude Cemetery.
CLIENT:
Arbor Memorial
BLEED:
NA
Larry Vegh
DOCKET:
D028701
TYPE SAFETY:
0.125
NAME:
Print Ad
COLOUR:
CMYK
TRIM SIZE: 5” w x 3.57” h
Larry Vegh passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, warmth, and deep love for his family. A devoted husband, father, and proud grandpa, he was known for his generous spirit, ready laugh, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. Many remember Larry as fun-loving, animated, and a joy to be around—someone whose presence brought comfort, laughter, and connection. A skilled craftsman and natural teacher, Larry was always willing to lend a hand or share his knowledge. A lifelong learner, he returned to university in midlife and later became a teacher, offering encouragement, thoughtful words, and hope to students, friends, and family alike. He had a deep appreciation for nature, learning, and good stories, and he lived life fully, always eager to share experiences and memories with those he loved. Larry was one of a kind—respected, deeply loved, and never forgotten. His legacy lives on in the homes he built, the stories he told, and the countless memories cherished by family and friends. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Cremation Services have been held. Arrangements entrusted to Cremation Society of Windsor & Essex County (519-969-5449) 3260 Dougall Ave.
Carlo Attilio Pacitti 17 November 1930 – 17 December 2025
Memorial donations may be made to Windsor/Essex County Humane Society as Joseph loved animals. Share a memory or sign the Book of Condolence at www. jhsuttonfuneral.ca Though we mourn his passing, we are grateful for the life he lived and the love he gave so freely. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the family he loved so dearly. Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever our Dad.
Passed away peacefully with family by his side. Mass has taken place at St. John the Baptist Church. Arrangements entrusted to James H Sutton Funeral Home. Online condolences and cherised memories may be shared with the family at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca
10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
www.rivertowntimes.com
Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, look for ways to boost your income this week. Be open to dealing with people who may otherwise not come on your radar. Some extra earnings will be useful. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you may be happy to socialize this week, especially with new people who are friendly and congenial. Enjoy some time out on the town and the chance to meet new people.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Right now you are anxious to work and be productive, Gemini. However, obstacles seem to get in your way left and right. You might need to devise a plan to overcome the challenges. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Your involvement in sports, groups and clubs will be a positive experience for you this week, Cancer. Not only will you enjoy the interaction, you will feel a sense of optimism. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, there’s no better time to identify financial commitments and make some changes to how you move your money than right now. The doors of financial institutions will open for you. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, you might make an excellent impression on others today, especially a boss that has had their eyes on you for some time. Fear not; you are only projecting good things. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 This is the perfect time to travel or try a new activity, Libra. Go someplace you have never been before. That may involve exploring your own neighborhood or city. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Enjoy the company of others this week, Scorpio. People will be warm, friendly, inclusive, and generally happy to share ideas and experiences with you. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Work-related travel may be on the itinerary this week, Sagittarius. You also might find yourself more involved with foreign affairs or people from other cultures. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, accept invitations to socialize with others this week. This is a great opportunity to have fun. It’s a good time to enjoy movies, the arts or the entertainment world in general. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Think about inviting someone over for coffee or pizza. You might be motivated to have an impromptu social gathering, Aquarius. Others will be happy to take you up on the offer. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Convincing others to embrace your way of thinking may require a little more effort than you are able to put forth right now, Pisces. Be patient and things will change for the better. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS JANUARY 4 - Lola Young, Singer (25) JANUARY 5 - Carrie Ann Inaba, Dancer (58) JANUARY 6 - Rowan Atkinson, Actor (71) JANUARY 7- Jeremy Renner, Actor (55) JANUARY 8 - Cynthia Erivo, Actress (39) JANUARY 9 - Catherine Princess of Wales (44) JANUARY 10 - Mason Mount, Athlete (27)
Year in Review - Oct. & Nov. 2025
Continued from Page 9
•Town council voted against having administration start negotiations with the Valente Development Corporation, the owners of the former General Amherst High School at 130 Sandwich St. S., and instead will have a report drafted with costs and details on the other options for a new town hall as presented as part of the administrative report on the matter. The motion was passed after roughly four hours of delegations, questions and debate. The other options for a potential new town hall include building a new town hall at Bill Wigle Park, a renovation/addition to the Libro Centre, building on land not yet acquired, building at the public works site, renovating and upgrading the current town hall and rebuilding at the current location. The motion was made by Councillor Linden Crain and he was joined by Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, Councillor Molly Allaire, Councillor Peter Courtney and Councillor Don McArthur in support. Administration said the $13-$15 million costs for the potential site could grow to over $20 million when works like heritage facade preservation and other technical components are factored in. •Halloween was celebrated in various ways, with residents collecting food items for the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. A “witches walk” was held on Boblo Island for the Mission, while “CandyPalooza” was hosted for families at Encounter Church. North Star High School held a Halloween band concert. Trunk or Treats were at Bryerswood Youth Camp, in McGregor by the Reaching for the Stars Optimist Club and in the Town of LaSalle. NOVEMBER •Amherstburg Fights Cancer was held at the AMA Sportsmen Association with Norm Mickle, his wife Janet and a team of supporters and sponsors presenting it. All 200 tickets for the fundraiser were sold. It featured a raffle and music from Bethany D’Alimonte and Tom Hogarth & Friends. Mickle, a cancer survivor, was an ambassador Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation’s “Grow On” campaign. The event raised $13,120. •A move to amalgamate conservation areas is met with concerns locally. Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Todd McCarthy announced the province will introduce legislation to create the Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) “with the aim of improving the province’s conservation authority system to help get shovels in the ground faster on homes and other local infrastructure projects, while strengthening the vital role conservation authorities play in managing watersheds and protecting communities from floods and natural hazards.” ERCA chair Molly Allaire said the news was surprising, and the board of directors opposed the move at a meeting. The ERCA board passed a resolution stating ERCA has already undertaken “significant modernization work aligned with provincial objectives.” The board opposes the creation of the “Lake Erie Conservation Authority.” Amherstburg town council also sends a letter to the province opposing the proposed move.
Continued on Page 13
Did You Know
DIABETES CAN AFFECT YOUR HEARING
At The Hearing & Dizziness Clinic, we’re raising awareness about the link between diabetes and hearing health. Just like your eyes, kidneys, and nerves — your ears are vulnerable to the effects of high blood sugar. Call us to book an appointment
(226) 773-8192
FREE
HEARING TESTS FOR
AGES 50+
WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to resolutions.
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
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 11
www.rivertowntimes.com
519 736-8228
So-Fresh So-Healthy
gibbinsurance.ca
CHICKEN CROSS RIB CLEMENTINE Strub's
DRUMS &THIGHS ROASTS &STEAKS 2LB BAGS
$
FRESH
3
49 /LB
$
FRESH
7
88 /LB
$
FRESH
2
99 EACH
We Have All Your Healthy Choices
PICKLES $
O N LY
3 99 EACH
83 Sandwich St. 519-736-4520
SPORTS > LIFE > ANNOUNCEMENTS > CLASSIFIEDS
chris@gibbinsurance.ca 535 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg AUTO • HOME • BUSINESS
Hockey for Hospice tournament raises over $611,000 By Ron Giofu The 29th annual Hockey for Hospice maintained its holiday tradition of kids having fun playing hockey and raising big bucks for Hospice at the same time. The 2025 edition of the hockey tournament raised $611,237, surpassing the roughly $535,000 raised in 2024. The three-day tournament, which ran Dec. 27-29, featured four arenas and eight ice pads in four different Essex County municipalities. Rinks were used at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg, the Essex Centre Sports Complex, the Vollmer Centre in LaSalle and Tecumseh Arena. Tournament co-chair Tim Beaulieu said they had 132 teams and nearly 2,000 players in the 2025 tournament. There were 115 teams in 2024. “We had 17 more teams this year, so that was very positive,” he said. “The kids have gone out and done it again.” Beaulieu said the Hockey for Hospice tournament usually sees between 115-135 teams enrol, so the 2025 total was near the “top end” of what they usually get. The tournament features house league players ranging from ages 5-14, with girls U22 added this year. “That worked out very well,” said Beaulieu. The tournament originated almost three decades ago as a skate-a-thon at the former AMA Arena on Victoria St. S. Beaulieu said he and wife Janet never could have imagined back then how big it would grow. “When Janet and I did this, it was in memory of an employee that passed away a few years earlier,” he said.
The Libro Centre in Amherstburg was one of the four Essex County arenas busy during the Dec. 27-29 Hockey for Hospice tournment.
From there, it expanded to where it is now, with four arenas, eight rinks, 235 hours of ice time and between 75-80 volunteers. Beaulieu noted a lot of family members of himself and other organizers take part, along with many from the Hospice of Windsor-Essex County. “We have volunteers who have been here in excess of 20 years helping us and they come back every year,” said Beaulieu. “This tournament doesn’t run without the volunteers.” The tournament has raised over $6.4 million in its existence, he added, with the players going out and raising it. Beaulieu noted many have a connection with Hospice through family members that have been supported by the organization. Volunteers and staff with the Hospice of WindsorEssex County go into dressing rooms and teach players and coaches about the Hospice’s services. Beaulieu said Hospice has 12 beds and the tournament funds eight of
them. Additional fundraising helps cover the cost of the remaining four beds. “People don’t have to pay a penny when they go there,” said Beaulieu. The amount the players raise annually continuously impresses Beaulieu and other committee members. “We’re fortunate,” he said. “I’m simply amazed every year at what the kids have done and continue to do. The kids respond year in and year out.” Katharen Bortolin, executive director with the Hospice of Windsor-Essex County, said while they do receive government funding, fundraising is still vital to their operations. She credited the families behind the tournament, such as the Beaulieu family, for their efforts. Bortolin added while Hospices in other regions try to replicate the success of the local Hockey for Hospice tournament, “they don’t have families like this.” Bortolin said players and coaches want to come back every year and Hospice is very grateful for the support they receive. She said while Hospice never wants to assume anything at the start of the year, they know they can count on the tournament to help them with their fundraising targets. The support given to patients and families is appreciated, she added, and there are players and coaches who have been impacted by family members who have stayed at Hospice. “The kids are amazing,” said Bortolin. Bortolin added “tons of time and effort goes into planning” the Hockey for Hospice tournament and she is happy to be part of it. “It’s really gratifying,” she said.
Leach, Russett lead the way in Admirals’ win over Walpole Island By Fred Groves The Amherstburg Admirals started 2026 on a high note Saturday night, topping the Walpole Island 6-1. Trailing 1-0 after the first period at the Libro Centre, the hosts quickly made some adjustments and got an excellent effort out of Cory Leach and Finnigan Russett. “In that first period, we were a little shaky and we couldn’t capitalize. I don’t think we were moving and doing the little things right but we got it going in the second period,” said Leach. A second-year forward, he scored once and assisted on another while Russett led the Admirals with a threepoint performance, a goal and a couple of helpers. With veterans Drew Booker, Evan MacPherson, and brothers Allan and Stefan Djordjevic out of the lineup, Admirals head coach Zack Gervais had to do some juggling. “I slated them into the first line with Zach Vaillancourt and they did great. Those two, Leach and Russett, are really good friends,” said Gervais. Both play aggressive but stay out of the penalty box. Leach now has 14 points on the year including nine
Admirals forwards Cory Leach (10) and Finnigan Russett (18) crash the Walpole Island net last Saturday. Amherstburg won 6-1.
goals while Russett, an assistant captain, has 12 points. “He is one of my best buddies,” said Leach. “We know where each other is on the ice. We play well together.” After trailing by a goal, the Admirals burst out of the dressing room and scored four unanswered to take a big 4-1 lead after 40 minutes. Rory Sandison got things going just 1:33 into the period before Brett Jones got the game winner from Russett and goalie Bennett Horrocks. Also scoring for Amherstburg, which saw 13 different
players hit the scoresheet, were Cale Marontate and rookie Brayden Hebert with his third. “We didn’t start the way wanted to,” said Gervais of trailing early. “The team is starting to connect. We tweaked our forecheck over the break which helped.” Snapping a three-game losing skid, which included a 4-2 loss to the Lakeshore Canadiens Dec. 23 at Lanspeary Park, the Admirals have got a big test coming up as they host the Canadiens Saturday, visit Essex Jan 13, and are in Harrow to take on Blenheim Jan. 15. All three of those teams are in the recent Top 10 of the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s Power Rankings. With the win over the Wild, the Admirals now sit at 12-16-3-0. In their last five games they have only allowed eight goals. SLAPSHOTS… With several forwards out of the lineup against the Wild, rookie defenceman Cameron Robinet was moved up front and was named the Admirals’ Player of the Game. Walpole Island’s Quinn Burke had a penalty shot in the third and clanged it off the iron behind Horrocks... Defenceman Jake Goudreault and forward Stefan Djordjevic will represent the Admirals at this Sunday’s All-Star game.
Woman in critical condition after three-vehicle crash
A three-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Front Road North and Kingsbridge Dr. last Sunday.
The Windsor Police Service states that an elderly woman is in critical condition following a three-vehicle collision in Amherstburg. That report was issued Monday morning, after a threevehicle crash occurred at the intersection of Front Road North and Kingsbridge Dr. Sunday. At approximately 11:30 a.m. Jan. 4, police say members of the Amherstburg Detachment responded to a report of a collision. According to police, the investigation found that a vehicle allegedly attempted a left turn and entered the path of an oncoming vehicle with the right-of-way.
The impact pushed the turning vehicle into a third vehicle that was stopped at a red light, police add. An 80-year-old passenger in the turning vehicle was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries. The intersection was closed for several hours while the Windsor Police Traffic Reconstruction Unit processed the scene. Any witnesses or those with information or video footage, is asked to contact the Traffic Enforcement Unit at 519-945-9645, ext. 7032. They can also contact Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-2588477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 12
www.rivertowntimes.com
Local Business Directory ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE Only $25.99 + tax per week (4 week minimum)
Call 519-736-4175 for details! HEALTH
Celina Postlethwaite
ACCOUNTING
MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS
L.C Bookkeeping and Taxes
Making homeowners’ Making homeowners’ dreams come true!
Accounting Specialist
HE ARING INSTRUMENT SPECIALIST
Specializing in Canadian and US Taxes
Call to book an appointment.
226 347-5276
285 Sandwich St. S.
www.YouHear.ca
226-773-8192
HEALTH
226-773-8192
473 Sandwich St S., Amherstburg
BROKERAGE #10428
TRAVEL
1206 OUELLETTE AVENUE WINDSOR, ONTARIO N8X 1J5 519-256-6744 bevcasa@hotmail.com www.powerbesttravel.ca
Hotel Stays • Family Travel Cruises • Weddings & Honeymoon Trips
Contact Andrew King Travel Consultant - Amherstburg
aking@expediacruises.com
INSURANCE & FINANCE
Auto-Home-Life-Business
Call Today for a Quote 102 Murray St. , Amherstburg
519-736-7983
jeremie@bornaisfinancial www.bornais.financial
www.timmatlock.com
COMPUTERS
INSURANCE
BUSINESS & COMMERCIAL
Jeremie R. Bornais BA, FIC,CPCA, EPC
519-736-4918
“Successful Planning For Life”
519-736-2122 • Fax: 519-736-1406 e-mail: insure@hlhamilton.com
ELECTRICIAN
Computer Data Products 80 Richmond St., Her itage Plaza
519-736-5561
•Custom Built Computers •PC Repairs •Upgrades •Laptops •Printers •Networking •PC Peripherals •Office Supplies •Software •Hardware •Cable Internet •DSL •High Speed Rural Wireless Internet Provider
Fax: 519-736-5584 www.cdppc.com
HOUSEKEEPING
Pittao Electric Ltd. COMMERCIAL - INDUSTRIAL - RESIDENTIAL
• PARKING LOT LIGHTING • NEW SERVICE & SERVICE UPGRADES • HOT TUB & POOL INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE & CODE CORRECTIONS • RENOVATIONS • ALL OF YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS
BREWING EDUCATION
B R E W I N G E D U C AT I O N
STEVE PITTAO, Owner - 519.796.9812 stevepittaoelectric@gmail.com
Home Cleaning and Organization Thorough and detailed cleaning for your home, condo or business. Supplies and equipment provided.
Michaelangelo’s Paving ltd Asphalt Concrete Interlock Driveways
Boulevards Patios Major/Minor Repairs Sealer
Michael Italiano
519-971-1078 - sandymaedel78@gmail.com
LANDSCAPING
Home Cleaning
519-817-9937
“Service You Can Trust” Auto • Home Boat • Farm
Life Insurance, Disability, Critical Illness, Long Term Care, Health & Dental, Group, Travel, Business Insurance, RRSP’s, TFSA’s Segregated Funds, GIC’s, Estate and Financial Planning.
Agent
Sandy Maedel
mortgagesbysharron.ca
ALL INCLUSIVE TRAVEL PACKAGES
TIM MATLOCK
Calm
mortgagebysharron@gmail.com mortgagebysharron@gmail.com
BEVERLY POWER TRAVEL MANAGER/OWNER
INSURANCE
CDP
MORTGAGE AGENT | 519.736.6562 519.736.6562
POWERBEST TRAVEL
AUDIOLOGIST
www.YouHear.ca
Owner
Amherstburg, ON cavanaugh_laurie@yahoo.com
Sharron Carr
MORTGAGE AGENT LEVEL 2
TRAVEL
Shaelyn Fritsch 285 Sandwich St. S.
Laurie Cavanaugh
dreams come true!
Sharron Carr
226-346-SEAL (7325) M.A_Italiano@hotmail.com
PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS
Keep your dollars in Canada to strengthen communities and support local businesses, including your local newspaper.
ROOFING
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 13
www.rivertowntimes.com
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE
REAL ESTATE TOP INDIVIDUAL SALESPERSON 2023 & 2024 TOP LISTER 2024
PREFERRED REALTY LTD
Thinking about BUYING or SELLING? Take that jump and call
80 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 1Z6
JOHN HALL SALES REPRESENTATIVE CELL OFFICE EMAIL WEB
PETER CRUMP Realtor®
226.347.8956 519.736.1766 CALLJOHN@GMAIL.COM WWW.CALLJOHNHALL.CA
519-919-3506
Call Hall Today!
HANDYMAN
GRAPHIC DESIGN
SRS HANDYMAN SERVICES Scott Sinasac
Graphic Design Web / Print
Artist/ Designer
• PLUMBING • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • DECKS
DOG GROOMING
Lisa’s Dog Wash
Original Artwork
FULLY MOBIL E haircuts baths love
Commissions / Collaborations
No Job Too Small • Reasonable Rates
226-787-6057
www.inkpocalypse.com•@INKPOCALYPSE•inkpocalypse@gmail.com
519-965-0781 · lisasdogwash.com
Small earthquake in Amherstburg on New Year’s Day By Ron Giofu Those hearing a rumble or those who felt a brief shake on New Year’s Day can attribute that to an earthquake that saw its epicentre in Amherstburg. Earthquakes Canada confirms that an earthquake did, in fact, occur in Amherstburg with its epicentre just in the area of Malden Centre. The earthquake was recorded at 11:19 a.m. and was originally listed as a magnitude 2.0 MwN. That has since been revised and is now recorded by Earthquakes Canada as a 2.2 MwN quake. The earthquake was listed by the agency
Continued from Page 10
as having been “lightly felt in Amherstburg, ON.” Reaction varied on social media varied, with some stating they felt and/or heard it, to those stating they didn’t hear anything. As of press time, the Earthquakes Canada website had 189 reports of people who heard or felt it. Earthquakes Canada’s website is www.earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca.
A small earthquake was reported in Amherstburg Jan. 1 around 11:19 a.m. The image from the Earthquakes Canada website shows the approximate epicentre and where reports of the earthquake being felt came in from.
Due to the length of the Year in Review, Community Events is not in the print edition this week. It will return in next week’s issue. It is still posted online this week at www. rivertowntimes .com.
The Year in Review - November 2025
•The Amherstburg Soccer Club presented a cheque for $4,804.90 to Kids Curing Cancer, marking both a community contribution and the end of an inspiring 12-year fundraising journey led by the Baillargeon family. It is part of what is now the final year for KCC. •Christmas on the Farm returned to Sarah Parks Horsemanship. The event is coordinated with the Windsor Parade Corporation through a grant from Experience Ontario, and funded by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. •A protest at the new Amherstburg fire station now under construction revolved around workers used on the site. Members of Ironworkers Local 700 say they are looking for work but many don’t have it, alleging that out-of-town, non-unionized workers were on the job. The town states the lowest bidder received the tender with Mayor Michael Prue adding it is the job of the contractor to hire subcontractors. The RTT contacted Niacon about the union members’ claims, but the company did not wish to comment. •A former Amherstburg resident and basketball allstar from General Amherst High School is one of the newest members of the Windsor-Essex County Sports Hall of Fame (WECSHOF). Korissa Williams was one of ten inductees welcomed into the WECSHOF. •Remembrance Day was once again well attended, with the public taking time to pay tribute to those who served and continue to serve. Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 organized the parade and ceremony. The Amherstburg Legion also hosted its second annual veterans dinner this year. Students at St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School had been at Victoria Memorial Gardens previously planting flags on veterans graves a few days earlier. •Community Living Essex County received $104,000
in OTF funding, with that being the focal point of an announcement. The proceeds went towards the agency’s “Future Proof” project. CLEC executive director Corey Dalgleish said the concept of “Future Proof” arose about 18 months ago and has been worked on since then. •The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. held a dinner at the Coachwood Golf and Country Club and saw a crowd of 180 people attend. Proceeds will help children and youth housed at the three shelters in the D.R. Congo. •The best of the academic best at North Star High School were recognized at the “Night of Excellence.” Honored were 242 students making the honour roll in the 2024-25 school year. Those students were from last year’s Grade 9, 10 and 11 classes. •The Ontario Heritage Trust - in partnership with the County of Essex, the Town of Amherstburg and the Town of LaSalle - unveiled a new provincial plaque commemorating the River Canard Bridge. This bridge was described by the Ontario Heritage Trust as one that “exemplifies rapid change and growth in Depression-era Ontario, when infrastructure design balanced beauty with innovative engineering.” •The Christmas season officially gets underway locally with the start of the River Lights Winter Festival. It ran Nov. 15-Jan. 4. Fireworks capped the kickoff celebration, which also included town crier Norm Ross, carollers and storytelling. The Essex Region Conservation Foundation’s Super Santa 5K Run, Walk and Wheel saw 700 runners and walkers raise about $25,000 for local conservation projects. •The North Star Wolves senior girls basketball team advances to the WECSSAA “AA” finals but lost a 50-33 decision to Tecumseh Vista Academy at St. Clair College. The young Wolves got to the finals despite having only two senior-aged players, with the rest having been still
eligible for junior girls basketball. •The North Star Wolves football team ended its season with a 29-22 loss to Belle River in the St. Clair College Bowl, which was the WECSSAA Tier 2 championship game. The game was played at Acumen Stadium on the campus of St. Clair College. Both teams were 7-0 heading into the title game. North Star’s regular season saw them have six straight shutout victories to start the year. •Essex County put a hold on its proposed development charges. Director of financial services/treasurer Melissa Ryan brought forth a report that noted that information from the Province of Ontario’s proposed Bill 60 adds new information for the county to consider. •A pair of new support vehicles are now part of the Amherstburg Fire Department’s fleet. They were built by Dependable Emergency Vehicles. The cost of the new trucks was roughly $232,000 each before tax. •A debate on library windows delves into overall costs for upgrades to the historic Amherstburg building, with estimates ranging from $4-7 million. During budget deliberations, council would vote to get a consultant to come in and review what needs to be done. •The town’s updated Parks Master Plan (PMP) was approved. There are master plans within the PMP for all of the town’s parks. Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon said the PMP allows for a plan on what can go into each park and lets the town apply for further grant opportunities with a plan in place. It is the first update to the plan since 2018. •The Windsor Parade Corporation’s annual Santa Claus Parade returns. Thousands enjoy the parade, which had a special Canadian theme to it this year. The parade used Sandwich St. North, Sandwich St. South, Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. and ended at Toddy Jones Park.
Continued on Page 15
14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
www.rivertowntimes.com
C L A SSI F I EDS
LOOKING TO '26!
ANNOUNCEMENTS from $25+tax WORD ADS from $15+tax
River Town Times is pleased to announce an All-Seasons Promo Package for 2026!
SAVE 20%
CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com to book your spot!
SUDOKU ANSWERS
2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for Rent in Amherstburg, WITH OVER 30 YEARS of includes utilities $1,830. renovation & construction Very clean, well experience, I can ensure maintained, approximately your project is completed correctly, 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex professionally, on Queen Street in quiet and with pride. Locally neighbourhood. One block owned & operated. Fully from the Detroit River within insured and references a short walking distance to available upon request. town. Carpet and ceramic www.renovisions.ca Steve tile throughout. Modern 519-300-0961. open-concept kitchen with island for working EVENT SPACE or eating. Fridge, stove, and dishwasher included. FOR RENT Private laundry-room with HALL RENTAL for showers, washer and dryer included. birthdays or gathering at Windows in every room St. Andrew Presbyterian 129 Simcoe with mini blinds included, ChurchAmherstburg. For providing lots of natural St. daylight. Central forced- information, please contact air conditioning and high- Linda @ 519-736-6096 or efficiency gas furnace. No Doris @ 519-734-8154. smoking. No dogs. Private access to your own patio “ARE YOU SAVED?” within shared rear-yard. $1,830 monthly, includes: That is the most important central forced-air heating question you will face. and cooling, natural gas, Jesus Christ is the answer. electricity, water, and Mt. Beulah Church, 246 sewer. Minimum 1-year King St., Amherstburg lease. Apply with income (519)736-4110. verification. First and last month’s rent required. By POWER WASHING appointment only, call 519& PEST CONTROL 736-4473 between 9:00 SERVING a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a DELINE’S AMHERSTBURG detailed message. SCRAMBLE ANSWER since 1988. Making your home look new again. 519-736Please 2448. Recycle
WORKS
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.
750LY
$OW ON
N
es.com
$6
Happy Forcier
!
A DAY NAD
ntim
rtow www.rive
appy Day Day! H da Canada Cana
sa esentative s Repr There Sale 5955 0-
PY CA
519-89
HAP
r
le and
seh
Tecum
Find ace ! Plhe y na dalpDay HappCa ca n HappyWe rg, Wind
Serving
ncia orna .fina ie@b jerem .bor nais www
LaSal County,
You
sor, Essex
is Borna ie R. EPC JeremBA, FIC,CPCA, -7983 36 ancial 519-7 isfin l
Amherstbu
1 -764
519-560
y
Happ
.2001
SCAN
A DAY CANAD 2025
ME
519.919
TE
MON D’ALI® MYREALTOR
JERE
TE
.com orbuilt 2 ww w.n 736 189 519 0061 ST. 519 736
ENS
TONY
A
AD PY CAN
HAP
DAY!
rmon
y Ha Ashle T.E.P
om J.D., B.A., hhsllp.c
gage
Mort
Dr. urdy McC 230 erstburg Amh
ly 18
ing Ju
added le,” a very be to affordab will lled very e. “It re thri e it et pric . We’ e Frat e mad $20 tick relaxing ugh be “They’ve, of the be very e thro will yett It will ed purchas holders .” Brou t. even host this ilable for . Ticket tisse” them fun to ava Café it ry “Ma Staff ite by be abled will be Tellers enta 0 and 18-2 and complim Foo Eventbr s July Food ugh . and Street receive one O. wl runal.” ed thro p.m Cra Y to The g Art able purchasal. wl Soci from 6-9 el STR from tbur Hot t Cra 18 ially cocktail can be wl Soci July el STRY. Amhers the “Ar ets not offic The Tick g Art Cra 9 sepa with arees be held in Hot – -4: 30 own s off chin will they 30 its O, withe said n Tim kick event 12: has it. a sear Tow at The yett wl, as it The AY S, River to support back ofO’s be heldLauri Brou5 –Cra SU ND ing Art will r up the of The 202 the help 5, wne with has ring part ry are t co-o as t is offe iate or wha Febdrua ee, but affil day, committ support is used alley – row artisal re Har Wednes rate of that tainer that faces thener. ated mur is whe din Part 1 that the w t a new con es don y” – prizpain g ping The side t for 736-736 Alle ltip le to 50-50 dra tbur ship n. ing sold mu - 519“Ar y .A bedg h tinu nity Amhers bein tburg ory. si- Bett con operatioets wit mu Hist . Harris, y pre hers and me dub raffl liseis comk ., Am a arestory on becotick Bay iliar e A ald Ave draiser thel Blac also to Aux Mac ne loca ost 100 aine funDon makst. ard iesders alm reJerm was ed ures the weHur withint of oun le .onli Lad s ne 8 How icat ses par al feat saidco-f The ded 872 Way is availab ines t as mur seum orceed pro $40,000ds said .” may well,”oferthe held by bus Tha lyMu signe anded at fun l this,” have also edom real “Al form 11 issu new and was s Free have m.mathavtoe the esti don pso the n n. to iss.co for June to nt . pythat “It’ Sim ny Stei in time ing ionourownsign orta merhap Leg vert the issohop nth imp sum t Pen thewas than of mo g Art den to that w.rie thise n a ionis ebymor tbur g p k it l pric rg ww Leg d bee goin at thin wer basist grou tota alle AmhersTha es.com stbu inst s but it’s n. The her oing “I just ntim ur. K. Smith. e. “Wegres Stei 2025ong .” said the Colo ute. Am yettsign an the this for of nis pro nts .rivertow The Brou trib eve featured on al it,” sts con and aine k indo g on www ts Den d Arti artis be pted off sociacce y has the raisedsJerm willcifically kin de to iliarur a worwor the ban of kick nty insi “It’ n featgurecash The Colod’s spe Aux sts O and x Cou ies of bee willbeinput The the Arti sts ken Esse sArti wl ns are by Lad de to we’ve Cra atio ded l insi the last wee ion’ with able Leg Don is hea ple the ned h craw ork of wit ted outa t. peo artw r art are alig ing. ed poin men e day with n add per The rtain l threyeaes,. who perform d. He n he was s Craw Stei for the es ban thu itecthe ente sign be ce whe Plac will tim ingthe 00 the Art arch ided to to be at be prov ing r $7,0 dinner five-pie a few Trad s and will ur will fenc is a dates back dingbut icated k band Colo ed ove a pasta l. The ded Colour said it 2Bac r builnersting. acted.he said ts of July 18. th tota with e rais ing Artis for art t olde eowpain O impng,”two the Back Smi hav e l hold be love that pain you rait and the l at The y hom still whil rts on the mea s to wasd to last tedes his Socia Smith e port o (left) to the his own g effo Auxiliarbuild is K. counldI don wan He lovehas urag r to st a phot Denn ies ing e wheexpecte Pouget thert.” no cost scap draisin encoof hea child. er for atgh voic Fun h the Ladg to help ed prio need he w the , thou my ction is Dia land er gath was kne St. m form add ture nin and was e wit dinn lor a stru ncil tor eve far Gor lateat t “fro and d per Smith trac past Con Cou day Ban be ay’s St. to al in“Th con pain eownersof the situ will Sun teacher, coe Sund ack art. the and hom re n. art ths. offrom last is Sim troversi rs e inal for ads anmon orig .the was awa directio fu Back2B line 157 from lette Also con beranc ed with with day said Gio such St. to assu Dead nt Br. me s help r he e f,” cern havents tractor’s previous Thurs Seymou e beca ts received rs who By Ron rseleme Malden . ntee issu youagre den to conwouldstud the con ncil Volu pay “Be Fort LED sign led itionth The s n resi told and cou e to ion add s 4 whe which porche ld hav town . In ation n Leg for a new HST portion n202 town, The kept wou s and adia nts. step they the draise uding streets, d. at noo al Can missue s as oved or agreeme s to be rge ude for the 24 excl Roy ing to fun item rem nt 47,8 and Geo be incl and stor e item 2nd to be roachme w thos is $3,6 mour will also ain July full continu the erm mour St.,pavefor enc later allo from to Sey rray St. ils wat ld on Sey s and itary of Mu k enta ements ks, curb san of wou Giofu Wor rov wal ssed on d by iscu 280 By Ron er impent of side impacte nstructi sew s much-d rge and -759-8 area and reco acem the repl in all on Geo ent ∙ 226il.c om t er for project approved. tract acem men tend RADIO@g ma om repl con ent been er the Ltd. The acem has CITY yra dio adi o.c sew er repl streets awarded n (2000) cost RDERrde rcitord erc ityr sew r ctio . The T BO ncil krtb ckr tbo CKR Seymoun cou Constru meeting R w.c ww nt Tow more IN OU t rece SP OT to D’A its mos YO UR during By RTT
PY HAP ADA CAN DAY!
PY HAP ADA CAN Y DA will be w
r ne ng fo
inui
g cont
raisin
Fund
dian
Cana Royal sign at
D Oy,SJuEly 1 k on CL esda wor
office Our
er r sew
Town
Legion
7 Br. 15
BEST THE K
26
counci
C ING PLAY SSIC RO ’s CLA ’s & 90 ’s, 80
O DT ROATORY VIC
70
RV E
O ec
rSs pN Thu
, FEB
FEBR
7
t the
FRI
Get dy eacksRofeGLaH beer g% ofaf m 24-p free! Bwiig +tax th 10 AY! K TOD
NE
DLI
DEA
BOO
61 5 ay 12- 9) 736-73 · SundAve · (51 12-8 day 8 Howard · Satur · 872 y 3-9 any.ca Fridawingcomp ON
agebre
glherit
5 PE
- $1
, FE DAY
SUN
R
PERS
TH
9 ARY BRU
AT
5PM
7
DR
n
t
ing!!
N
O N LY
2
GE
99
Pa
13 E $
EA
s!!
SOBE
YS
N 6l -FU ve al 9-73 H SO We ha SO-FRES St. - 51
ndw
83 Sa
ich
485 6-4
-73
DA
es.com
di Deadl
Thu splay adine fo rsd sw r ill be at ay,
Ap 4 for ri the :30 p l 17 th Ap e a H ril 23 rd.m. appy issue
Wedn
esd ay, Ap
Hav
Beve
519 rly ww -256-6 Po w.p owe 744 bevcwer rbes ttra asa@ vel. hotm ca ail.c
ril 16
kw
25 –
r!
River Tow
n Tim
es –
ww
Tony w.d Jere D’Alimonalimont my D’Al e.co te* imon 519-818- m te* 519- 200 919- 1 2001
Journ ey t Holy Wee
, 20
Easte
om
Happ
y East
er My to You Family
from
o Je r us
- February 11 - March 11 2 2 99 10 - April 1 14 1 24 2 - May 6 East FREE erC - June 17 AN AD OLOUR ON IN C H R ISTMAS OUR 2026 - June 24 GR ISSUE.* EETINGS ** - TBD - September 2 - October 7 ith
Any one
Comm
em
of any
Pa
Chris t Ch
ale hers m
K rs Thr arrie
S
urch Am
fait h, cre
ed or ora ssion tes no fait tbur Jes Sund h is g us’ ay welco pro triump with com Holy me ces me to join sionshal ent Palm mo Mond rating us for wit ry int s ay Jes Even h palm o Jerusa11:00 all or us’ com Holy par cle ing Pr branch lem a.m. Tues me t ans es. , often mo ing ayer rating day of the ma rke Jes Even tem 7:00 d by Comm Te Holy ple p.m nebra We us’ tea ing Pr , no em chi dn com . ora ng in ayer ting e Servi esda mu par y nio Jes abl 7:00 n Wa us’ ce of (Spy es, Holy bet shing no p.m. ray Read Wedn Th com al by ing esda mu Good Commemof theursday nio s Jud n as & - 7:0 y) (M ora fee Frida Meet ting t & aund the 0 y Co com p.m Jes Comm y Th pra St. Jo us’ ing . yer ins , the hn’s Ro Pass mmem un urs dar kne ion n An ma ora titution ion - day) ss glic n Cat & De tio of com 7:0 an ser hol ath n of 0 mu p.m Je vice ic Churc nio . Holy of rem h pro 10:00 sus’ n Cr no The Satur com ember cessio a.m. ucifix da fir n mu ing ion The st ce y - Th nio & venat Christ , n Retur leb e Gr era tion Churc n of ration eat Vig of the h, sha of the il the (like Cro re Christ (begin Light, Resu- 8:30 ss, Comm in ma p.m rre s Eve darknewith em East cti . ora is to ss) comm on & tion er Su Christ union & cel nd ma ebr ay s Day atio FRES n of 11:00 ) the H Resura.m. rec tion of Jes Pe us
51
SaleS asher RepReSen
karriet 9-984- tative hrashe r@out3872 look.co m
Hap
Tur ADE A py E k aste F R E Seys H r! STRAFRES WBE H 4 1 RR Per9 NN $ L B IES VEGCA LB FRES ETA ED 9 COM P L I M BLES SALH ATLANTIC EA9. ENT S M ¢ $ F I L L E T SON M CADBURY EA. IN I EG 99 BR $ 8 7 5 g GS SPRUSSEL /LB OUTS FR 9 VEGG UIT EACH9 $ IE TR & HI 99 r $ F R E S H AYS CKOR W GR
$
PLUS
Hap p
eh
LB
av
BON
Y
E-INSMOKED HAM
COM r e al PLIM l SO ENT -FRE your S 83 Sa SH SO ente nd rtai w ic -DEL Per nin h St ICIO LB gn US . 51 9- SO eeds 7 3 BE YS !! 6- 4 52 0
yE aster
fo
2
$
49
HA
225
PPY
rive & 255 rsedgea RIV pts. San ER ca dwi ’S | ch St. 1.833.74 E D G E N., Am 0.3700 1 & 2 her stb urg ON
8 – Riv
Co
er Tow
n Tim
es –
lo ur CSp olo onso ureriinn g d byg C : C onto n t est e s t Wedne
sda y, Aug
ust
27,
2025
www.r
iverto wntim
Subm it ma il@ your riv scho er tow ol ntim news es.co to m
GO STU OD DE LU NT CK S & TE AC HE RS!
473
AGES
10 $25 WINNER & UN GIFT DE REC GUM CERTIFI EIVES: R BALLS CAT & OVE E FRO RAL M LS
Sand
wich
St.,
Amhe
rstbu
rg,
TravAll In clu el Hot el Sta Pa ck sive Cru ys • NA ises Fam ages Spon ME_ Hon • We ily Tra sored ____ eym ddings vel oon NA__ by: aki Trip & ME__ ____ ng@ s : __ ____ Co exp ____ ____ edi Travel ntact ____ PHO ____ acr ____ ____ uis Consult Andre ____ NE ________ es. ____ ____ com ant ___ w Kin #___________ Am ____ 519 herstbu g AG __ ________ GO .81 ____ ___ 7.9 rg Pleas E: ____________ ______ OD 937 __ S ____ ____ TU LU __ e dr officPHON DEN CK ____ ____ e at E: ____op off yo ____ ____ TS! 80 ________ __ __ ur ____ ____ ____ PLEASE by Richmo___ subm 3: ____ ____ The SUBMIS DROP 00 pm nd, ins ission ____ ____ OFF to P id ____ _AGE ark TOWN SION TO YOUR on Th e the the Ri __ Hou ursd ____ Herit ver • RICHM TIMES OFF THE RIVER ay, To ___ se M FROM $30 GI Sept age Sq wn Tim HERITA OND, INS ICE AT 80 FT embe uare useu GE SQ es IDE FOR GUMBAL CERTIFI THE UARE Plaza r 5t WINN LS & CATE m h. 3:00 DEADLINE PLAZA ER OF OVER PM IS: AGES ALLS •$3 SEPTEMON THURSD 0-5 0 AY, BER FR GIFT CE 4TH. RT FO OM ON
N9V
3G5
AB FIR IG HO ST-DA Y and ORA Y Bes
t for Wishes a Gre a Yea t Scho r! ol
R WI
Mc IFI NNER DONALD CATE OF AG ’S Wi ES 6-1 shing all 0
great students,
Ther 2025-26 teachers school and sta Sal es es Fo 519- Repa res rcie year! ff a 89 entativ 0r e
MA
TT
WI
REAL
CK
TOR
®
EN S
59 55
Serv
ing Amh
TO
NY
erstburg
, Win
D’A REAL
LIM
TOR
®
ON
TE
SCAN
ME
JERE
MY
dsor , Esse x Cou
nty,
to Ba Sc ck ho ol PE ! TER LaSa
lle and
D’A
REAL
LIM
TOR
®
ON
TE
Tecu
mse
h
CR
519 TOR UM P 519 .919.3 506 .96 6.3 750 REAL
Ads will be invoiced all together to receive the discount and must be paid in full before publication in February. cell
office
®
** Proceeds to support the Legion Branch #157 *** Must purchase regular priced ad to receive Free Colour rebate.
CALL 519-736-4175 TODAY or email sales@rivertowntimes.com
News tips are always welcome! Thank you again, Call Ron Giofu
519-736-4175
SCRAMBLE ANSWER
WORKS
11
akin g@ exp Trav edi acr uis el Consult An es.c dre om ant w Amh Kin 519 g erst burg .81 7.9 937
* Regular price for all 10 business card size ads is $750. Book before February 1, 2026 to save $150 and secure your spot in these 10 issues for just $600.
Mom appreciates everyone’s thoughtfulness.
Theresa Meloche & family.
iverto wntim
Remembrance Day - November 11** PETIZE
R E ng Need $ 9PER9LB yoF ur Entertaini 4520
/PERSO
• 519 OOD TIME RG TBU KS/F HALF HERS , AM SNAC ED AT ST. USIE SERV LHO 281
rk ou
EN AP 2 H CHICK IGHS BU Y 1 FRES or TH T UMS
E Y GAM RTTY R B IGTTCCHH PPAA $ 15 A WA W
wo prep
Your
ou n take Y Pl a S Let us E C I A LGULAR Part RE K SP EF W E E & VEG FRGRESOUH NDN LYBE O ME G ASTORE MADE FRUITRTOAYN LYS $ PER LB FRESH ZZAS 14” PIO N LY ds! $ EACH gwoo ate Da TS Ul $ EACH COMPLIMEN RS Therty Satimndwich!
157 CHBU RG BRAN HERST AM
s
r street
ou , Seym George
fo June
er ds tend l awar
happen
l Social
ww w.h
Art Craw
c1 ay e’s D un De AY 9th ntin 28l TO S SUND UARY Vale Via
We would like to thank everyone who attended our mother’s 90th birthday celebration. She was overwhelmed with family and friends. She thanks everyone for the beautiful cards, flowers, well wishes and presents.
ay! da D
Cana
rr l2 on tCa Leve Agen Sharr gage 62 Mort 36.65n@gmail.com 519.7BySharro
r Partne
om ashley@6-7999 hsllp.c 519-73
CH 157 BRANERSTBURG AMH
RE SE
Thank You
Valentine’s Day St. Patrick’s Day Easter Mother’s Day Father’s Day Graduation Canada Day Back-to-School 49 Thanksgiving 99 4 99 9
Happy
MON ® D’ALI REALTOR
WICK® MATTREALTOR
A ALM 1000 STBURG AMHER
Tu
THANK YOU
00! 25, 202
www.r
FRIDCLOS AY, ED Goo A d Frdue to thePRIL 18 iday HA holid EASPPY ay TER
ON 10 COLOUR ADS*
es – 11
n Tim
r Tow
5 – Rive
ay, June Wednesd
SUDOKU ANSWERS
RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS
SUDOKU ANSWERS
FOR RENT
SCRAMBLE ANSWER
WORKS
Robert Ioseph Brooker August 31, 1936 - December 15, 2025
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert Joseph Brooker. On Monday, December 15, 2025, Robert (Bob) passed away peacefully, at home with his family at his side. Bob was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. At the age of 89, he leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to family. Bob is survived by his cherished and beloved wife of 64 years, Victoria (Vicky); his children Tammy (Curtis) Popel, Michael (Kimberly) Brooker and Kathleen Brooker (Paul Young); his grandchildren Christopher Popel (Tory Mogg), Daniel Popel, James Young, and Victoria Young; and his great-grandchildren Brooks and Lettie Popel. Born in Amherstburg, ON, Bob is the son of the late Mary Loretta (Mahon) Bobeach and stepfather Alexander Bobeach. He is survived by his sister, Laura Bondy, currently residing in Amherstburg, ON. His brother, Jerome (Red) of Bedford, NS, predeceased him in 2017. The absence of Bob will be profoundly felt by all who knew and loved him. His spirit will continue to reside in our hearts, our memories, and everyday moments that serve as poignant reminders of a life full of remarkable achievement and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
es.com
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – River Town Times – 15
www.rivertowntimes.com
Year in Review - Nov. & Dec. 2025
Continued from Page 13
•The North Star Wolves junior boys volleyball team caps a successful season with a SWOSSAA “AA” championship. They defeated Chatham John McGregor on the road 25-21, 25-22 and 25-19 to win the title. The Wolves had previously travelled to Kingsville to win the WECSSAA “AA” championship against the Erie Migration Coyotes. •Community Living Ontario, and its regional agencies, embarked on a campaign to shorten waiting lists and give more supports to those with intellectual disabilities. The #WaitingToBelong campaign started and is attempting to shine a light on families and experiences they have. •Studio Seven Pilates Boutique held a fundraiser for the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and donated the proceeds in-person to the Toronto hospital. Owners Laura and Danijela Dobrich presented a cheque for $6,000. DECEMBER •The Amherstburg Fire Department received a financial boost to assist training for new and veteran firefighters. The fire department received a grant for $5,000 from Enbridge Gas through the company’s Safe Community Project Assist program, one that is run with the Fire Marshal’s Public Safety Fire Council (FMPFSC). •Amherstburg Public School’s ongoing shoe drive sees them raise over 2,100 pairs of shoes. Their goal is 10,000 pairs of shoes. Donations of old shoes can be made at the school or at the Libro Centre. Donations go to “Soles4Soles” and is being done in partnership with BioPed in LaSalle. •Amherstburg town council passes its
on i t a tr s i g Re ow n s i N E P O
2026 budget, with it calling for a 2.86 per cent tax increase. That increase roughly translates into a $85.13 increase on a home valued at $250,000. Two days of budget deliberations see only $1,000 cut from the budget, though several items were shuffled around in the capital budget. That included reallocating money in the capital budget – roughly $500,000 – for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and $200,000 for work at the intersection of Lowes Side Road and Sandwich St. S. Town council voted to move a $100,000 amount for a consultant’s report for the Carnegie Library from 2027 to 2026. •“Christmas at the Museum” was held at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. The day included a performance by The Tanner-Price Singers, who are based out of the Tanner-Price African Methodist Church, a church that dates back to 1852. Also performing was the Ministry Ministry of New Life Fellowship. They are from the New Life Fellowship Church, formerly known as Harrison Memorial. •The County of Essex approved its 2026 budget. County council voted to spend $145,144,950 next year, up from $140,043,690 in 2025. The county has a 2.25 percent increase to the tax rate. 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. •A screening of the “Radio Renaissance” documentary takes place at the Fort Fun Centre, shortly after it debuted at the Windsor International Film Festival. The documentary, directed by Gavin Michael Booth, follows the creation of 107.9 FM The Burg (CKBG) and its founder Marty Adler. It can be viewed on Bell Fibe TV1.
•A possible new mountain bike skills park could be built at the Libro Centre. The skills park is being proposed by the Windsor-Essex Bike Community in partnership with the town. The open house was held by WEBC and the town’s recreation, parks and facilities department. The cost of the skills park is estimated by WEBC, with fundraising to be held this winter and spring, to be between $30,000-$50,000. •Amherstburg received $52,821.07 in a provincial Fire Prevention Grant. Essex MPP Anthony Leardi announced the grant and said it will help protect firefighters from hazards they face. A breakdown of the equipment is five sets of bunker gear, along with five helmets, five pairs of boots, ten pairs of gloves, and protective hoods. It also includes a new gear washer extractor for proper cleaning and decontamination of personal protective equipment, as well as renovations to the fire station to improve decontamination shower facilities, helping reduce occupational exposure to harmful contaminants. •An option to partner with LaSalle for policing vanishes, at least for the time being. LaSalle cites cost, staff resources, and a lack of adequate time to get things ready for the end of 2028 as reasons not to proceed at the current time. •Various can drives, food drives, stores, organizations, groups, medical facilities, schools, and individuals step up to donate to help those in need in town. The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, Amherstburg Community Services, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul among others were thankful. •A number of Christmas events were around Amherstburg, from dinners at churches, to concerts and cantatas, the Santa Shoutout, the Community Living Essex County/River Lights party, Santa showing up at various businesses, the
WINTER 2026
Holiday Gift Shoppe at the Gibson Gallery, the #202 Fort Malden Army Cadet Christmas party and much more were ways the community celebrated the season. In addition, 91 families and 246 children were aided through the Amherstburg Firefighters Association’s “Stuff a Fire Truck” campaign. •The AAM Goodfellows collect over $15,000 in their newspaper drive and pack 90 food baskets for those in need who preregistered. Volunteers step up to help out, both during newspaper sales and with packing and distributing food baskets. •The ERCA board of directors approved its draft 2026 budget for circulation to member municipalities. More than 50,000 trees will be planted and 70 acres of habitat restored. ERCA will also continue to sample watercourses throughout the region to measure watershed health. ERCA announced the 2026 draft budget totals $13.9 million and will be funded with approximately $3.5 million from current year cost apportionment. Of the municipal cost apportionment, $3 million is required to fulfill the Authority’s mandatory obligations. •The McGregor Community Christmas Dinner serves approximately 600 meals to people. The meal was free, with donations accepted. The Squirettes of Mary #1001 and Knights of Columbus Council #2844 hold the event at the McGregor Columbian Club. •It was announced that the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival will not be held in 2026. Organizers are aiming for a 2027 return. •The cost of waste disposal is going up. In 2025, Amherstburg paid $600,780, that will jump by $18,160 to a total of $618,940 in the upcoming year. •The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission hosts its annual Christmas meal. Roughly 105 meals were served, both in-person and via take-out.
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
16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 7, 2026
www.rivertowntimes.com
Wed
JANUARY
Mon
Sun 11 Libro Drop-In Public Skating 5-6:50pm $4/person $12/family of 5 (Most Sunday’s)
12
Tues
7
13
Wed
14
19
Libro Drop-In Public Skating 5-6:50pm $4/person $12/family of 5 (Most Sunday’s)
Regular Council Mtg 6pm Town Hall
Tues 20
Thurs
15
Fri
9
Last Day to Call White Goods Pickup 519-736-3664
Fri
16
Wed
21
Parks & Recreation Advisoery Committee Mtg 5pm
Thurs 22 Amherstburg Accessibility Committee Mtg 5pm
Sat 10 Libro Drop-In Beginner Skating 4-4:50pm $4/person $12/family of 5 (Most Saturday’s) Sat 17 Libro Drop-In Beginner Skating 4-4:50pm $4/person $12/family of 5 (Most Saturday’s)
Economic Development Advisory Committee Mtg 5pm
Remove ALL decorations & plastic bags Mon
8
Heritage Committee Mtg 5:30pm Town Hall
Drainage Board Mtg 6pm
Sun 18
Thurs
Fri
23
Sat 24 Family Turf No Drop-In Yoga Time Today @ the Libro 6:30pm-8:30pm
White Goods Pick Up
519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5