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

“Car Crazy” draws large crowds to Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

Amherstburg went “car crazy” again last Sunday and hundreds of cars and thousands of people turned out.

The 19th Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show was held in town 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.

Scott Elliott, who heads up the volunteer organizing committee, believed it was a great show this year.

The number of vehicles was in the same range as last year, maybe slightly down, but Elliott said that was likely due to wet weather early in the day. Rain usually scares off some classic car owners, who don’t like having their vehicles out in those conditions.

Early estimates are 580-590 vehicles this year.

“We had a lot of people from out-oftown,” said Elliott.

Many stayed in town, he added, either with relatives or some other sort of accommodation. Elliott said one car owner drove down from Ottawa for the show with one of the award winners coming in from Kitchener.

In addition to having people from around Ontario, Elliott said there was a strong showing of classic car owners from Michigan as well. Trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. didn’t stop anyone from coming over and Elliott said that was “good to see.”

“It’s all political and not between car guys,” he said.

The crowds that came out to view the cars were higher, Elliott said.

“We had more pedestrian traffic than last year,” he said. “The streets were just

packed. From past Murray St. to Toddy Jones Park, they were just jammed.”

The car show benefits the community, he added.

“It’s good for the town,” said Elliott.

Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy had good support from the business community, and he said a goal of the show is to help them.

“Hopefully it was good for the merchants,” said Elliott. “That’s what it’s designed for.”

The car show has been growing over the years, he said, and the Amherstburg show is the biggest in Windsor-Essex County. The only one larger in the region is in Bothwell, but Elliott said the atmosphere in Amherstburg is great with the park, trees and along the streets.

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 Barracuda.

DiMilo said it was the first show he entered with the vehicle, as restoration was completed just recently. He pointed out a lot of work went into the vehicle on both the interior and exterior and he’s owned the car for 20 years.

“We literally just finished,” he said. Of winning the award, DiMilo was pleased.

“It’s awesome. It’s nice to see our hard work paid off,” he said. “It’s been a very long process.”

DiMilo added he attends the Amherstburg show regularly.

“It’s always a beautiful turnout,” he said. “We always come every year.” Amherstburg resident Tim DeHetre attends the show annually but usually with different vehicles.

Continued on Page 15

(Top) Mark DiMilo of Leamington won the “Paulie” Award for best in show for his 1970 Plymouth Barracuda.

(Middle) Crowds head down Dalhousie St. during the show.

(Right) Bob Moore shows his 2004 Corvette.

McGregor fire impacts two structures

By Ron Giofu

A fire in McGregor last Tuesday caused roughly $150,000-$200,000 damage and impacted two structures.

The Amherstburg Fire Department was dispatched to the call in the 8400 block of Middle Side Road (County Road 10) July 22 around 3:43 p.m.

According to deputy fire chief Ron Meloche, the fire appears to have started in a pool shed behind one of the homes and spread to a second building in back of a neighbouring home. The second building is a garage/workshop building that housed at least four antique tractors and pieces of farm equipment, but Meloche said those were saved.

“The pool house ignited and due to the close proximity, it spread to the neighbouring building,” said Meloche.

There were no injuries.

The cause is undetermined and classified as accidental.

While the fire department has identified where they believe it started from,

an official cause is not 100 per cent known due to the damage. Meloche said the pool house is completely destroyed while there was “significant” damage to the garage/workshop.

“We don’t have a confirmed source,” said Meloche.

All three stations responded to the call and were on scene over 2.5 hours. In all, there were 39 firefighters there. Meloche said it is typical for the fire department to dispatch all three stations to a call in order to ensure they have the manpower required.

Amherstburg firefighters responded to a call in the 8400 block of Middle Side Road last Tuesday.

Three Amherstburg fire stations responded to a call on Middle Side Road last Tuesday afternoon.

Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum preparing for show

By Ron Giofu

The 39th annual Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Show is coming up soon and preparations are underway.

To help get ready for the Aug. 8-10 show at Co-An Park in McGregor, wheat was removed from a Concession 4 North field farmed by Amherstburg resident Tony Simon. The wheat was removed with a 1922 Massey Harris binder that the museum has in its collection, with the binder having been donated by Amherstburg resident Morris Kurzuk.

The binder was pulled by an antique tractor and the volunteers that were out last Thursday stacked the wheat on two wagons. The wheat will be used in an antique threshing machine during the show.

The feature of this year’s Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Show is Allis Chalmers tractors and equipment.

The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum presents the show and its president Gary Struhar estimated there were about a dozen volunteers out last Thursday to assist with the binding of the wheat. They were out late Wednesday to make sure the binder was working properly and with the bulk of the work being done Thursday.

Struhar said the wheat that doesn’t run through the threshing machine will be put to a good purpose. The remaining straw will have tokens put in it so children can search for them as part of the “turkey in the

Local

straw” event.

“The kids collect as many as they can and they can buy whatever they want at the show,” said Struhar.

The show will feature its traditional tractor parade through McGregor Aug. 9 at 9 a.m., using Walker Road and Concession 11 in Essex on the way to the park. Other events and activities on the museum’s grounds will be sawmill demonstrations, tractor and engine displays, vendors, tractor pulls and mini-tractor pulls, children’s activities, entertainment on Saturday by Crystal Gage, pony rides from Sarah Parks Horsemanship, and Anita’s Chip Wagon.

Struhar added radio controlled airplanes will also be flying during the show with a live auction being presented by OS Auctions and Dunn Auctions.

The museum is still offering regular tours, with Struhar adding there was recently a group from Peterborough that came through.

The museum is part of the Southwestern Ontario Heritage Council, a group of museum operators around the region. They meet four times per year and discuss issues they are facing, with Struhar stating many issues involve volunteers.

“It’s an informative meeting,” said Struhar.

Admission to the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Show is $8 for adults, $6 for children 6-12 years, with children under age six being free. A three-day pass is $12. Half-price admission for seniors is Friday only.

Show hours are 12-6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 9 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10.

artist Marshall White’s reception well attended at Gibson Gallery

By Fred Groves

The Gibson Gallery describes Marshall White’s work as an expression of acrylic and charcoal.

For those who visited the local art gallery, they no doubt agreed with the summation. White, from Amherstburg, wrapped

up his exhibit entitled “Faces,” which began July 7 and concluded Sunday afternoon with a well-attended reception.

“I started off after I retired about six years ago,” he said as to how he first became an artist. “I did simple linear buildings and worked into doing portraits.”

A couple of his pieces at the gallery are self-portraits which he did in acrylic.

Another form in which he enjoys is adding several different methods such as using cold wax, resin and oils.

“I do it for the enjoyment and I appreciate everyone who enjoys it,” he said.

Continued on Page 13

With Roger Langis on the tractor and Colin Stratichuk on the 103-year-old binder, wheat was taken off a field last Thursday.

Jerry Struhar was one of the volunteers throwing the wheat onto the wagon last Thursday on Concession 4 North.

Marshall White stands with his painting “My Dog.”

Local church’s summer camp promotes staying active, core values

By Ron Giofu

The first of two summer camps at a local church let area children stay active.

Encounter Church presented its Mega Sports Camp last week with the Alma St. church offering activities throughout the week that focused on sports and games. Youth pastor Mark Dunseith said they had about 23 campers daily through the week, with the bulk ranging from SK to Grade 6 students.

“It’s been a wild experience,” said Dunseith. “There are so many kids that are passionate and wanting to be here.”

Dunseith said the campers had “a wonderful time” and learned about core values in addition to sports. They learned “VIBES,” he added, which stands for values, influences, bravery, encouragement and selflessness.

University of Windsor assistant track and field coach and North Star High School track and field coach Tina Sharman was the guest speaker at the camp.

“It was a lot of fun,” said Dunseith.

There was “a healthy mix” of children from church members and returning campers to people from the community at large. The community saw the advertisements for the camp and took advantage, he indicated.

Youth and summer students helped run the camp with Dunseith stating that includes summer staff, junior staff and a kitchen team, with volunteers helping out during the week as well.

“Thank you to the community for supporting us,” said Dunseith. “We couldn’t have done it without them. We’re just so grateful.”

The next camp at Encounter Church is their

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

“Wonder Junction” camp Aug. 11-15 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. each day. That will be a vacation Bible school and has a cowboy-themed western theme. More information can be found on Encounter Church’s website at www. encounteraburg.ca. Encounter Church is located at 125 Alma St. and their phone number is 519-736-5644.

“Managing our resources is the cure,” says Amherstburg resident

In times of economic uncertainty, an optimistic vision and understanding is the prerequisite for taking things in the right direction.

Soon, our town council will start budget deliberations for the next fiscal year. Now more than ever, we require strong political leadership.

The obvious slowdown in the economy, the local unemployment rate at 11.2 per cent are coupled with a slowdown in area investment and lower economic growth.

Many shovel-ready projects have been put on hold. A possible slowdown in housing would make things worse. We have seen this before – individual investors and business leaders have chosen to stay on the sidelines.

Of course, they will proceed with having approvals on paper creating the illusion that everything is fine. It’s not true.

In the past, federal, provincial and municipal governments have stimulated the economy with borrowed money. Not this time.

High debt and high interest rates adds additional pain. Increasing mortgage payments for new renewals will leave consumers with less disposable income.

Locally and nationally, the issue of trade uncertainty will not disappear anytime soon. This is reality and to counter it will require fiscal restraint at every level.

We now know that raising taxes

is not an option. After 17 per cent increases in the last three years, this is not a cure. Less spending is.

We have created a diverse and vibrant community. The historic district and beautiful waterfront are our major assets. We have more to do.

The historic past will help to shape our future. Promoting tourism will create jobs and growth.

Thanks to those investors with the vision and the foresight to move in that direction. As a bedroom community to Windsor, we will benefit for the future expansion already underway in manufacturing and other industries.

The new Gordie Howe International Bridge will add to it. Saying competitive will attract investment. That is

needed to grow the local economy.

Not supporting a levy under consideration on new developments is an absolute must.

Double dipping shouldn’t be allowed. They already receive taxpayers funding currently under a new levy proposed for the County of Essex.

At a time they not only give themselves a large pay increase and, using their numbers, a record $347 million of cash on hand, it is irresponsible and contrary to the belief of building affordable housing.

Managing our resources is the cure.

Reader asks “where has the money gone?” in relation to government grants

Where has the money gone?

As you can see in the RTT the town of Amherstburg has received over $6 million in general assistance from the government since 2021. So what has the administration and council done with this free money? Any logical person would think that this money should reduce the budget and tax increases for the Amherstburg taxpayers. Sorry to disappoint you. Amherstburg has 34 people on the Sunshine List. Let’s do just one

comparison to the Town of Essex which has 27 people on the list. Amherstburg has four district chiefs and a Deputy CAO and Essex has none of them. The question is why did the mayor and council allow this to happen?

The answer is simple, I believe they are just puppets of the administration and they don’t care how this affects us, the taxpayers. I bet you any money that none of the council members even know what roles and responsibly of a district chief are. What bothers

me even more is that the people of Amherstburg do not put any pressure on the mayor and council do make some changes.

I predict already that council will vote on a new big library, needed or not and town hall will move to the new Valente development of the General Amherst High School. Whatever happened to Duffy’s and Belle Vue? Why did it all go quiet about this?

Public input sessions are just for show and have to be done so the town

cqn prove that it was done. Did you notice that most public input meetings are scheduled while people are working? It’s a game since in the end they do what they want. Anyways, as mentioned, it is up to you if you will stay quiet and let them do what they want and taxes will go up and up or you voice your objections and hold all of them accountable.

—Holger Kretschmann Amherstburg

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

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specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.

• Please sign your letters and provide a phone number for verification or questions if we need to reach out to you.

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•Letters printed in the River Town Times do not necessarily reflect the views of the newspaper, staff or ownership.

—Frank Cerasa Amherstburg

Tina Sharman was the guest speaker at the Mega Sports Camp at Encounter Church last week. Seated at right is youth pastor Mark Dunseith.

EcDev committee updated on Howard Industrial lands

By Ron Giofu

The town’s economic development advisory committee received an update on rezoning the Howard Industrial Lands in advance of a public meeting that is occurring next month.

The town is trying to create a secondary planning area bounded by North Townline (County Road 8), Howard Ave., North Side Road and Concession 8 North.

According to a report from Deputy CAO/director of development services

Melissa Osborne: “At the Aug. 8, 2022 Council meeting direction was provided to complete a Secondary Plan for the Howard Industrial Park District. On December 5, 2022 Council approved in Interim Control By-Law, which effectively ensured that redevelopment in the area would be more controlled within a specific set of rules until such time as the full secondary plan was finalized and adopted by Council. This ensured limited risk of development of lands which would not be consistent with the final plans for the area. The statutory public meeting was held on Aug. 14, 2023 and the final report brought back and adopted by Council Nov. 27, 2023. There was an appeal received and as such it was not until Feb. 12, 2025 in which Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) rendered their decision on the matter, thereby confirming approval of the Secondary Plan into the Town’s Official Plan”

Osborne said during the committee meeting it has been a long process to get the over 700 acre site to “get the site ready” to rezone them to light and medium industrial.

“While our main Official Plan update for the town as a whole was before council as a statutory public meeting a couple of weeks ago, two things happened,” explained Osborne.

First, she said after the meeting was held on the draft OP, Bill 5 and Bill 17 were approved by the provincial government.

“Both of which have implications on our Official Plan and we need to step back and take those into consideration,” she said.

Second, the County of Essex’s Official Plan had been with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. The ministry gave the county a set of recommendations after reviewing that.

“The county needs to take a look at those changes from the ministry, adopt them into their OP, after which our OP will need to ensure that we are consistent to what the county’s is. It has actually delayed our Official Plan from being updated, after which our town-wide zoning (bylaw) was going to follow,” she said. “Rather than waiting for those things to happen, we pulled out the Howard Industrial Area, similar to doing the industrial plan. We’re bringing the zoning forward.”

The statutory public meeting on the proposed rezoning will be Aug. 11 at 5 p.m.

“Barring any unexpected information coming from that discussion, it should be brought back in September to council for approval,” she said. “After which, those lands will be in a hold. There will be a hold symbol and will remain as they are right now if they are agricultural or agricultural/residential but if somebody wants to buy them for industrial, all they have to do is remove the holding zone.”

Osborne said there is an urgency to get these lands rezoned, and the town does not want to wait until 2026.

Committee member Ken Morrison asked if moving forward with the secondary plan will be impacted due to Bill 5 and Bill 17. Osborne said the town is not seeing anything in the bills that will impact the secondary plan as the latter has already been approved as an Official Plan amendment.

“It’s just having the zoning match up with that Official Plan now,” said Osborne. What might impact those lands due to Bill 17 is that if a developer provides professional studies to the town, “we must deem them complete.” Previous practice was to review the documents and if the proponent didn’t look at something or weren’t aware of something, the town would ask the developer to update the document.

Continued on Page 10

Thank-you to all our 2024 Essex County 4-H auction buyers. Your support helps our 4-H program grow in Essex County

Delta Power Tilbury New Holland

Ed Fisher

Ed Gibbs

Essex Feed Warehouse

Ferris Farms

Barrette Excavating

Barrette Glass & Mirror

Brookston Oaks Brewery

Buddy Maxey

Chevalier Drainage Ltd

Chris Galos

Christina Blonde

C.L. Benninger Equipment

Comber Country Estates by Tracey Farms

Country Fresh Packers

Dave Beutler

Delta Power Chatham

Gerald A. Smith Funeral

Home Ltd

Gill Farms

Gord’s Abattoir

Heavy Duty Repair

Huron Tractor

Jason Curtis

John Dawson

Karen & Tom Renwick

Killer Plaques

Kings Meat Market

Kingsville Pro Rodeo

Kipping Tire

Lanoue Auto Sales Amfar

Leasing

La Stella Supermarket

Leamington GMC

Lifestyles by the Firebox

Leeann Setterington & Frank Maertens

Marconis Excavation

Marcie’s Magna Wave

Myland Farms

Rick Roelandt

Roscommon Farms

Setterington’s Fertilizer

South Essex Fabricating

The Feed Store (Harrow)

Trimble Cattle Company

TS Mullen Farms

Venture Pro Essex

Windsor Shipping

Your commitment to an agricultural fair and 4-H keep us strong.

Thank you to our auctioneer Marty Unholzer for a job well done!!

Support Tomorrow’s Farmers

(Nurse)

Bryerswood reaches $4K goal after Mid-Summer Dinner

By Ron Giofu

The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) held its second annual “Mid-Summer Night Dinner” last week and hit their target.

The BYCOC ended up raising $4,000 from last Wednesday evening’s event at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. At the end of the night, the fundraising total was $3,727 but a donation late last week brought it up to the BYCOC’s goal of $4,000.

BYCOC vice president Cathy Robertson said they sold 98 tickets to the dinner, which featured the meal provided by the 3 Dog Poutinerie food truck. Don McArthur and Nancy Roy provided the entertainment. The event drew local politicians and administrators to help the cause, including Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue, Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy and County of Essex CAO Sandra Zwiers.

“Every dollar from the event will help with the renovations at the activity centre at the camp,” she said. “It’s going to cost a lot.”

Robertson shared that their most recent Ontario Trillium Fund (OTF) grant request did not succeed. Previous OTF grant funding helped renovate the kitchen and washrooms at the activity centre at the Bryerswood Youth Camp.

Robertson stated the rough estimates are between $500,000 to $750,000 to carry out additional activity centre renovations.

“This work would include putting in LED lighting, replacing the soffit material ceiling with a drywall ceiling so that we can install vapour barrier and insulation in the ceiling, seal the mortar cracks in the walls, insulate and vapour barrier the walls, finish the interior walls as they currently are just the cinder blocks, finish the exterior of the building, put drainage tile around the exterior to draw water away from the building, grade the area around the building and put a pad outside for parking, and install a heating source,” she said. “This is very ambitious but necessary to change this building from a seasonal facility into a year-round one.”

The community’s assistance is needed to accomplish this goal, Robertson stated. She added naming rights to the building are available if someone or a company is capable of helping them.

“We use the activity centre for programs for the youth and being able to use it all year would be a tremendous asset for the youth programs,” she said.

Robertson said the BYCOC was happy to see so many people, adding everyone came out to a fundraiser on a Wednesday night.

“We’re just so thrilled for the community’s support,” said Robertson. “We’re blessed.”

For more information, contact the BYCOC at www. bryerswood.com, e-mail info@bryerswood.com or call 519-726-6266. The Bryerswood Youth Camp is located at 6480 Texas Road in Amherstburg.

Baby born on Boblo

By Ron Giofu

Brenda Marlia and Jay Mould recently welcomed their third child into the world and the place where it happened isn’t usually known for having babies born there.

Their new baby Santino was born May 17 on Boblo Island. According to Marlia, one of the midwives checked the archives and found no record of a baby born and registered on Boblo Island before.

There was initial discussion during her pregnancy whether her midwives would be able to come and help her deliver at home, due to the fact she lives on an island, she indicated. That matter was resolved and midwives Corey Bryant and Sarah Facette helped bring Santino into the world.

Santino was born at approximately 1 p.m. and there was a function on the island that night. Wanting to “check it out,” they went over later in the evening and were congratulated.

“Everyone is so in love with him,” said Marlia, of the couple’s new son.

People are pulling their golf carts over and talking with them while others are giving gifts to the family.

“Everyone is over the moon with him,” said Marlia. “Thank you to everyone on the island for being generous and supportive.”

The community on the island is a wonderful one, she added, with some residents stopping by to check on them and congratulate the family.

JOANNE & SANDRA

PATTI D’ALIMONTE

ROY & BETTY

MEIGHAN COULTER

Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) vice president Cathy Robertson (left), G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. co-owner Jen Desjardins-Grondin (centre) and BYCOC president Kathi Poupard (right) helped present the “Mid-Summer Dinner” last Wednesday.

Nancy Roy and Don McArthur provided the entertainment.

Baby Santino was born on Boblo Island May 17.

“Brainstorming” session planned by EcDev committee regarding HCD

Special committee meeting will be called

By Ron Giofu

With town council approving a heritage conservation district (HCD) for Amherstburg, there is now talk about what to do to create economic opportunities around that.

The town’s economic development committee discussed the matter at its July meeting, with deputy CAO/ director of development services Melissa Osborne stating the goal of the HCD is to preserve the heritage of the downtown core, but also to protect what draws people to live and visit Amherstburg.

“There has been economic spinoff from that,” said Osborne.

Osborne cited new businesses opening and commercial investments, such as older buildings that “are really coming back to life.” She said she has been talking about the issue with manager of economic development, tourism and culture Jen Ibrahim about possibly doing a brainstorming session or workshop with the economic development committee around leveraging what the HCD could do for further investments for commercial or tourism activities.

Topics that a session could include further exploration of the issue and what community improvement plans could be developed or enhanced to incentivize businesses and homeowners

to further invest in their properties “and refresh the heritage” there.

“I just wanted to throw that out there for conversation as to whether the committee thinks it’s worth having a bit of a workshop/brainstorming session around that. If it’s premature, certainly we can deal with that,” Osborne told the committee.

Heritage planner Adam Coates would be invited to such a brainstorming session.

Clerk Kevin Fox said a number of things could be explored during a meeting like that and it could be scheduled at a later date. He said it would be “a component of a meeting to come if this committee was interested in that.”

Osborne said options could include open houses and surveys could be done as part of the process.

“I think it’s a great idea. It’s worth looking into,” said Councillor Linden Crain.

Committee chair Patricia Simone also believed it was a great idea “and a great opportunity for this committee to brainstorm.”

“It sounds like a separate meeting. That way we can have that full-time (discussion) rather than cram it into a (regular) meeting,” she said.

Fox said the next regular meeting is scheduled for Oct. 16 but a special meeting could be held prior to that to have the brainstorming session.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to dessert.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

You’re on fire this week, Aries. Ideas are sparking left and right. Don’t forget to slow down before you burn out. You want to showcase energy without creating chaos.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

This week is ideal for treating yourself to something great, Taurus. Money and love are both flowing in a way that is to your liking. The universe delivers for you right now.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, your words have power this week, so use them wisely or go wild. It’s a great time to network, flirt or finally send that romantic text you’ve been thinking about.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

It’s not a bad thing to have so many emotions flowing right now, Cancer. This week is ideal for reconnecting with your intuition or redecorating your space.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Get ready to shine again, Leo. You could be the center of attention and those around you love the show. You may also enjoy some career wins this week.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you’re crushing your to-do list this week while others seem to be snoozing. Midweek brings you a curveball, but you can handle it with signature grace and organization.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Your charm is turned up to 100 percent right now, Libra. A chance encounter could ignite something sweet this week. Weigh your options regarding which path to pursue.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, this week you’re serving up mysterious mastermind energy. People want your attention, but you are playing it really cool. Money or career secrets may come to light.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Adventure doesn’t have to translate to a far-off trip, Sagittarius. It could mean a new idea or even a flirty conversation. If you’re in the mood to explore, bring someone along.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you might be plotting your next power move, and this week the stars are backing you. You could be giving off boss energy, but don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

You’re cool, quirky and full of surprises this week, Aquarius. Others are finally catching on to your appeal instead of trying to go up against you. A collaboration could spark genius.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Listen closely to your dreams this week, Pisces,. They are trying to tell you something. A creative streak could hit hard and it might lead to something truly magical.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

JULY 27 - Triple H, Executive (56)

JULY 28 - Jim Davis, Cartoonist (80)

JULY 29 - Dak Prescott, Athlete (32)

JULY 30 - Joey King, Actress (26)

JULY 31 - Mark Cuban, Entrepreneur (67)

AUGUST 1 - Jason Momoa, Actor (46)

AUGUST 2 Evander Kane, Athlete (34)

A “cool” horticultural society meeting

The Amherstburg Horticultural Society held an “ice cream social” July 22 at Downtown Espresso Café where they enjoyed some gelato. The horticultural society is also seeking nominees for its annual Trillium Awards. Curb appeal is the main criteria. Addresses will be checked to see that they have not already been awarded in the past. Once that is verified, members will evaluate the gardens. There will be eight homes and two businesses nominated. Please send nominations to info@aburghortsociety.ca. The deadline to nominate is Aug. 1.

Town wants to “activate” industrial lands

Continued from Page 5

“The way this legislation works, unless a developer is willing to change the timeline to allow for that discussion, they can push to bring it before council in which case there is a risk we don’t support it as well. It creates more opportunities for OLT (hearings),” she said. Osborne added OP issues can also be dealt with.

Committee member Alan Buterbaugh asked about having the lands “shovel ready” and wanted to know what investments can be made in the properties. He cited sewer and road works having to be done in the area. As the town doesn’t own the lands, Osborne said they are creating opportunities for landowners by doing the OP and zoning so that grants could applied for.

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“That helps them with that,” she said.

The Community Improvement Plan will provide additional opportunities regarding development charges, breaks on planning and building study applications and tax rebates.

The road needs studies for the area has started, Osborne added, and once that is completed, there will be a better idea of where they go. The McGregor lagoon study was funded to consider a solution on what wastewater to that area would look like.

“We do believe there are several industries that did not require the wastewater capacities that are needed for much larger plants. Maybe we end up with ten or 20 job businesses in that area, still achieving our goals of activating it,” said Osborne.

Admirals make trade, get closer to training camp

By Fred Groves

There could be some very hard decisions to be made at this year’s Amherstburg Admirals training camp.

The local Provincial Junior Hockey League (Jr. C) club hits the ice in LaSalle Aug. 21 to kick off the season and on paper it looks like it is going to be a tough team to make, especially at the forward position.

Recently Amherstburg made a trade, sending 2005born forward Cole Vaillancourt to the Wheatley Sharks in exchange for 2006-born Madden Drouillard.

“Cole requested a trade to his hometown team. I wanted to get Madden my first year here. He played for Essex and had almost a point a game with them. He’s a skilled player that can make plays,” said Admirals’ general manager Andrew Sykes.

In 21 games last year, Vaillancourt had five points. Drouillard, who is no relation to Amherstburg forward Brady Drouillard, had 14 points in 39 games with the Sharks.

Madden Drouillard joins a group of forwards that includes a dozen returnees along with Jr. B standouts Stefan Djordjevic, Brody Gillis and Cale Marontate.

“It’s going to be a very difficult team to make. Eventually we are going to have to tell the guys that yes they are back but it doesn’t mean you can coast through training camp,” said Sykes.

Like most teams, the Addys continue to look for a veteran defenceman who can come in and do the great job of last year’s veterans who have graduated due to age.

“That’s still in the works. There has been some chatting with other GM’s. Teams don’t line up to give you a big defenceman.”

Off the ice the Admirals have added goalie coach Chris Viselli who will work in conjunction with Matt Anthony and on the bench, a new trainer, Liam Devine.

“Both of them have experience,” said Sykes. “Our trainer is friends with assistant coach Jake Archer and head coach Zack Gervais so that will be a seamless transition.”

SLAPSHOTS…The Admirals hosted a very successful cornhole tournament at the Columbian Club in McGregor on Friday night…The PJHL will be short one team this year as the Goderich Flyers are taking a leave of absence.

Men’s pickleball tournament held, women’s tournament coming Aug. 2

By Ron Giofu

Men who play with the Amherstburg Pickleball Association (APA) went up against their counterparts from Tecumseh last week with a women’s tournament soon to come.

The men’s tournament was held at the new pickleball courts at the Libro Centre last Monday night with the women’s tournament coming Aug. 2.

Tim Rousseau, a member of the APA’s board of directors, said it was organized by pickleball players from

both Amherstburg and Tecumseh, with Mike Bringas and Richard Rupert getting credit for helping to lead organizational efforts.

“It’s the Paddle Up Battle League (PUBL) and the Amherstburg Pickleball Association men’s Monday night league,” said Rousseau.

APA board member Linda DiPasquale said there were 26 players in all, with both Tecumseh and Amherstburg having 12 players and one alternate each.

DiPasquale explained the PUBL is

led by Rupert while Bringas heads the Amherstburg league.

“This is the first annual,” she said. “Hopefully, it’s the beginning of many. There is some excellent calibre play here.”

After the games were completed and the scores tabulated, Tecumseh ended up winning 81-59.

The women’s leagues from both towns will get together at the Amherstburg courts Aug. 2 for the women’s tournament.

DiPasquale said there are seven

leagues that play out of the new courts, in addition to people from the community who want to try them out.

Anyone wishing to join a pickleball league can swing by the courts while there is action on the courts, with DiPasquale pointing out there are usually members of the APA board able to help them out.

DiPasquale said “we will invite them out to play” and meet with a board member to see if they are interested in becoming part of the league or the association itself.

The Amherstburg Admirals hosted a cornhole tournament last Friday night at the Columbian Club Hall in McGregor. Earlier in the week, the team also made a trade as they sent Cole Vaillancourt to the Wheatley Sharks in exchange for Madden Drouillard.

Admirals forward Brady Drouillard was one of the participants in last Friday’s cornhole tournament in McGregor.

Pickleball players from Amherstburg and Tecumseh competed in a men’s pickleball tournament July 21 at the Libro Centre. Each team had 12 players and one alternate. Tecumseh won the tournament by a final score of 81-59. A women’s tournament will be held at the same location this Saturday.

Pickleball action was held at the Libro Centre July 21 as a men’s tournament was held between an Amherstburg Monday night league and a group from Tecumseh known as the Paddle Up Battle League (PUBL). The two associations want to make it an annual event.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 1

FISH FRY; Held at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., to benefit the House Youth Centre. Runs 4:30-6:30 p.m. All meals included fries/baked potato, coleslaw, dinner roll. One-piece fish dinner $11, two-piece fish dinner $14, threepiece broasted chicken dinner $12, kids dinner $8. Dessert table by donation.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 10

INSPIRE CHANGE FUN FESTIVAL; Presented by Feeding Windsor-Essex by New Song Church. Held at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St. from 12-5 p.m. Food, games, fun and more. Everyone welcome. All proceeds will support the programs of Feeding Windsor-Essex.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 10

CRAFT SHOW & BAKE SALE; Craft show and baked goods at Wildwood Golf & RV Resort, 11112 11th Concession, McGregor. Put on by the Wildwood Social Club. Runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free parking and admission.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13

MOVIE NIGHT; The Essex County Field Naturalists Club is introducing their annual dinner with a free movie night starting at 7 p.m. at the Ojibway Nature Centre, 5200 Matchett Road. The movie is “Butterflies on the Brink: The Story of the Mottled Duskywing” and it is a triumphant documentary of a group’s quest to secure the future of an endangered butterfly. Get behind the scenes look with project biologist Jessica Linton later in November. Movie is free and open to the public.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 15

MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH; The August edition of Music off the Back Porch will be held from 6-8 p.m. at the rear of the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St. This month’s entertainment is Foxy Doe and Linda Girard. Free admission, donations to the Park House welcome. Weather permitting. Bring your own chair.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16

MISSION GOLF TOURNAMENT; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission hosts 15th annual golf tournament at Dominion Golf & Country Club (6125 Howard Ave., LaSalle) starting at 7 a.m. with registration and 8 a.m. shotgun start. Registration $160 per golfer, includes golf, cart, lunch, dinner and prizes. Dinner only (2 p.m.) $50. Register on Eventbrite. For info, call 519-736-9140, e-mail fundraising@aburgmission.ca or visit www.aburgmission.ca

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16

CAR WASH & BBQ; Held at Rob & Tina’s No Frills (181 Sandwich St. S.) in partnership with Encounter Church. All donations going to Amherstburg Public School. Runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

TRILLIUM

Community Calendar

nominated. Please send nominations to info@aburghortsociety. ca. The deadline to nominate is Aug. 1. NO FREE COMMUNITY MEALS IN SUMMER; Lighthouse Church will not be hosting the free community meal and showings of “The Chosen” in July and August. The church looks forward to seeing everyone again Sept. 4.

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

GIBSON GALLERY EVENTS; Latest exhibit is “Where Art Meets Ink,” featuring work of artist Madison Young. It runs until Aug. 17. Closing reception July 27 from 2:30-4 p.m. Free admission, donations accepted. Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Open daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Gallery is also looking for artists/artisans to join outdoor “popups,” the next one scheduled for Oct. 5 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. ($30 per spot).

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers. Cleaners required Monday-Friday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Dishwashers needed Thursdays (and to fill in, as needed) from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Help also required to organize special events and fundraisers. If interested or for info, send e-mail to Jill at aburgmission@yahoo.com.

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

QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild wants to invite guests/new members to attend our monthly meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s Hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North Woodslee at 7 p.m. 519-726-5869

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD EVENTS; Charity bingo every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Wednesday to order call 519-734-8575. Dinner from 4:30-6 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road. For info, call 519-7348575.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. still has bingos every Thursday night and fish fries (with chicken as well) Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties every second Tuesday at 3 p.m. except in July and August.

SERVICE TIME; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., now has one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community

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

AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall on Pickering Dr. across from Walmart.

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

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” and help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@ bryerswood.com.

MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with free lunch from 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food and fellowship. All donations welcome.

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

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

BOTTLE

CLASSIFIEDS

CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com

EVENT SPACE FOR RENT HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-7366096 or Doris @ 519-7348154

FOR RENT CALDWELL TOWERS; 1 or 2 bedroom apartments for rent. From 1240 sq. ft. Underground parking. Wonderful views of the river and lake. Walking distance o downtown. Next to the Walmart plaza. Available Sept 1, utilities included. Call 519-736-7295

FOR

RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA

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

FOR RENT

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for Rent in Amherstburg, includes utilities $1,875. Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex on Queen Street in quiet neighbourhood. One block from the Detroit River within a short walking distance to town. Carpet and ceramic tile throughout. Modern open-concept kitchen with island for a working or eating, with fridge, stove, and dishwasher included. Private laundry-room with washer and dryer included. Windows in every room with mini blinds included, providing lots of natural daylight. Central forcedair conditioning and highefficiency gas furnace. No smoking. No dogs. Private access to your own patio within shared rear-yard. $1,875 monthly, includes: central forced-air heating and cooling, natural gas, electricity, water, and sewer. Minimum 1-year lease. Apply with income verification. First and last month’s rent required. By appointment only, call 519736-4473 between 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a detailed message.

SCRAMBLE ANSWER PASTRY

“ARE YOU SAVED?”

That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110

POWER WASHING & PEST CONTROL

DELINE’S SERVING

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

WANTED TO RENT

ATTN SNOWBIRDS; Older gentleman non-smoker, non-drinker requires Apt or Home to rent from Nov 1 - May 1st. Will pay cash. References if needed. Call Len 519-726-9067

SUDOKU ANSWERS

RENOVATIONS

& REPAIRS

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

WANTED TO BUY

Buying ALL GOLD + SILVER Jewelry ALL COINS -$$$- 60 years Experience. NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATES - FREE ADVICE - HONEST + DEPENDABLE SERVICE. Thurs Aug 7: Essex Railway Station, 87 Station St., Essex. Fri August 8: K of C hall, 190 Richmond St., Amherstburg. Sat Aug 16: Roma Club, 19 Seacliffe Dr E., Leamington. Cash Paid for ALL GOLD & SILVER Jewelry. All COINS; Canada, USA, Loose coins to complete collections World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets, Old paper money. FREE ESTIMATES, NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 60 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS. Always paying more than the brochures you get in the mail from the quebec company. Best to deal Local $$$. House calls also available for larger amounts Ed. 519-8181805

LANDSCAPING

SCRAMBLE ANSWER PASTRY

MAJOR LEAGUE LAWNS; Weekly Lawn Cutting & Trimming. Shrub & Hedge Trimming. Yard Cleanup. Core Aeration. FREE ESTIMATES. Call 226-7244027

Reid, Peter J.

Passed away July 25, 2025 at the age of 86. Loving husband of Colleen. Father of Richard (Rick) and wife Laura. Predeceased by son Gregory, 1981. Grandfather of C.J. and wife Stephanie, Renee and partner Daniel. Great grandfather of Ruby and Zoey.

Predeceased by parents Richard and Cecilia and inlaws Dallas and Rose Kelly.

Pete was a millwright at General Chemical for 43 years. He enjoyed many sports and games. He was very competitive in all. He enjoyed power boating and sailing with family and friends.

A private family service was held at his wishes.

Over 580 vehicles estimated at Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy

This year, he brought a 2020 Corvette, which he’s owned for two years.

“It shows good,” he said of the Corvette.

This year was “a little hot but still great” and he said he enjoys most everything about the show.

“There’s nothing not to like,” said DeHetre. “There’s good people, good food and some really nice cars.”

David Blakney of Woodslee sat beside his 1931 Chrysler, which he said was a newcomer to the show.

“I’ve been to a few shows,” he said. “I decided to come to this one as well.”

Blakney added he likes shows with really old vehicles, noting he also owns a car from 1918. He likes a September show at Greenfield Village in Michigan that has cars from 1932 and older.

“Everyone has different interests,” he said. John and Sheryl Greer of Amherstburg liked the Car Crazy show because it’s a hometown event.

“I’ve lived here for 25 years,” said John.

Sheryl said her husband came at 5:30 a.m. to make sure he could get a good spot at Toddy Jones Park.

“You can’t beat the trees,” she said, adding there are other shows in asphalt parking lots.

John said he has owned the 1935 Buick

for 50 years and joked he will be back in 2026 “as long as I’m on this side of the grass.” Sheryl added they “absolutely” plan to be back.

Mike and Barb Homme of Windsor sat with their 2002 Trans Am on Rankin St., having bought the car from its original owners. Mike commented they used to live in Amherstburg and enjoy coming back.

“I like the county people,” he said. “There’s a lot of nice cars.”

Barb added “there’s a lot of people we’ve seen at other car shows.”

Bob Moore of Amherstburg said it was the second year his 2004 Corvette was entered. He helped out at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 last year and couldn’t enjoy the show as much but this year he was there to fully enjoy the car show.

“It’s a supportive community of car

RTT office to be closed Civic Holiday

The River Town Times office will be closed next Monday (August 4) for the Civic Holiday. Our advertising deadline for the Aug. 6 issue will be this Thursday (July 31) at 4 p.m.

Also, this is a reminder that the River Town Times office will be closing Fridays at 12 noon during the summer months. Our hours Monday-Thursday (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) will not change. Regular hours on Friday resume in September.