Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Voters choose Leardi, Progressive Conservatives in provincial election
By Ron Giofu
Anthony Leardi is going back to Queen’s Park. Leardi, the Progressive Conservative (PC) candidate for the riding of Essex, won re-election as the Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) in last Thursday’s Ontario election. He will be part of a PC majority government under leader Doug Ford, with Ford gaining his third consecutive majority.
For Leardi, it is his second provincial election win after first being elected in June 2022. His prior political experience was as an Amherstburg councillor (2000-03) and then as deputy mayor (2003-06).
After entering his election night victory party at Sutton Creek Golf Club in McGregor, Leardi thanked the voters for electing him to a second term
as MPP. He also expressed his gratitude to all of his volunteers, donors and supporters, with his family getting special recognition. He pointed out public life demands a lot from families.
Of his wife Jackie, Leardi said “she is a strong woman. I am lucky to have her.”
Leardi also thanked his opponents for running what he said were respectful campaigns.
The PC candidate finished with an unofficial total of 30,785 votes (55.46 per cent) with NDP candidate Rachael Mills finishing second with 12,047 votes (21.7 per cent). Liberal candidate Tamara Stomp came in third place with 8,707 votes (15.69 per cent). Green Party candidate Stephen Higgins received 1,282 votes (2.31 per cent).
Continued on Page 2
Warden open to regional policing discussions
By Ron Giofu
The Town of Amherstburg is interested in exploring a regional police model as it investigates what the next step is on policing the town, and the Essex County warden is open to talking about it.
Warden Hilda MacDonald said she was “a little surprised” when she heard the motion coming out of Amherstburg town council. She said she has heard talk about regionalizing other services in the area, but not policing.
Despite only hearing about the idea recently, MacDonald said she is open to having discussions.
“I would support having a look into it,” she said.
Acknowledging “I think the initial costs might scare everyone,” MacDonald said she would listen if others around the Essex County council table were to be interested in hiring a firm to guide them through the process of what costs and conversion to a regional system could look like.
“It’s really about efficiencies and economies of scale,” said MacDonald. “Start-up costs are always the most daunting.”
If all seven municipalities were to band together into one police force or a smaller group within the county showed interest, MacDonald believed there could be cost savings in the long run as it could lead to fewer chiefs and administrative staff.
“The biggest thing we need to look at is our costs,” she said.
Policing is a huge expense, MacDonald added, with police costs being a major part of each municipality’s budgets.
MacDonald said Leamington, where she is also mayor, looked at the possibilities in 2019 of moving away from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and going with other another service.
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Anthony Leardi (left) celebrates his win in the provincial election last Thursday night with his brother Peter (right). The victory party was at Sutton Creek Golf Club in McGregor. It was the second win for Leardi in the Essex riding.
Anthony Leardi (right) shakes hands with Justin DeLuca of Amherstburg last Thursday night at Sutton Creek Golf Club in McGregor. Leardi was re-elected in the Ontario election and will serve a second term as Essex MPP.
Leardi re-elected in the Essex riding
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Other results included Travis Jacques of the Ontario Party getting an unofficial total of 1,131 votes (2.04 per cent), Brigitte Belton of the New Blue Party receiving 882 votes (1.59 per cent), Kevin Linfield of the None of the Above Direct Democracy Party got 469 votes (0.84 per cent) while independent candidate William Szabo Verzoc received 204 votes (0.37 per cent).
The tariff issue was top-of-mind for Leardi, stating U.S. President Donald Trump is threatening the livelihood of Ontarians with a tariff war.
“The next few years are going to be a roller coaster,” Leardi predicted, though backed Ford as the person to guide the province through it. The mandate voters gave Ford and the Progressive Conservative party will last longer than Trump’s term as president, he added.
Vowing that the newly elected government will protect the province and its jobs, said he is “very happy” to win re-election and that Ford is the leader to guide the province, protect workers and businesses and show strength.
“We are going to be strong. We’re going to show strength,” Leardi told reporters Thursday night. “We will show strength to the Americans and we will go back to the negotiating table. We don’t want a tariff war. They don’t want a tariff war. We are best friends.”
Beyond the tariff issue, Leardi said the now-previous PC government has made an impact on the manufacturing sector. He said $45 billion of investments have been made in Ontario since Ford became premier.
“I think people strongly recognize the big difference in the manufacturing sector,” said Leardi.
Supporting tradespeople and increasing the number of people in skilled trades will be a continued focus, he added. Leardi stated he had support of several unions during this election campaign and he wants to continue supporting them.
Leardi said he has been accessible, noting he has invited people to his coffee houses and other events.
“They know they can call me, they can e-mail me and they’ll always get a response,” he said. “I hope that made some sort of difference.”
Voter turnout in the Essex riding was 50.88 per cent, according to Elections Ontario. Province-wide, voter turnout is roughly 45.5 per cent.
McLellan Ave. fire causes about $500K damage
By Ron Giofu
The Amherstburg Fire Department has issued a damage estimate of approximately $500,000 after a fire in the Kingsbridge subdivision.
Amherstburg firefighters were called to a house fire in the 400 block of McLellan Ave. around midnight Friday night. Upon arrival, fire chief Michael Mio said crews observed fire coming
from the rear of the residence. The Amherstburg Fire Department had crews from all three stations, 39 firefighters in total, on hand to fight the fire.
“Crews had a quick knockdown of the fire, but it extended into the attic from the kitchen area,” said Mio.
Fire crews remained on the scene for approximately three-and-a-half hours to get the fire out. There were no injuries reported with Mio adding no one was home at the time.
“The cause of the fire is still under investigation however, we are concentrating on an area of the kitchen that had appliances and battery chargers plugged in,” said Mio.
Mio issued general safety tips for all residents.
“This is a reminder to ensure that unattended appliances are always unplugged and that residents only purchase certified batteries and continuously monitor the battery health,” he said. “As always, make sure to test smoke alarms/ CO detectors regularly, especially as we spring forward this weekend.”
Stolen ATV from Amherstburg recovered in Essex
An investigation is ongoing after an ATV that was taken from Amherstburg was recovered in Essex.
According to the Windsor Police Service –Amherstburg Detachment, an officer attended the 9500 block of County Road 11 (Walker Road) for a motor vehicle theft report Feb. 24 at approximately 7 a.m. Police say it was reported that an unknown suspect entered a garage and took a 2024 Yamaha ATV valued at roughly $15,000.
The following day, the stolen ATV was recovered by Essex OPP in their jurisdiction, Windsor police add.
Accident No charges were laid after police say
a vehicle left the roadway and ended up on the ice on the Canard River.
Officers responded to the single vehicle accident in the area of County Road 8 (North Townline) and Malden Road Feb. 21 at approximately 2:30 p.m. Police say that upon arrival, officers discovered a vehicle that had left the roadway, went airborne and came to rest on the ice covered surface of River Canard.
According to police, the driver suffered serious but non-life threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.
—All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment
Caution tape surrounds a McLellan Ave home after a fire caused about $500,000 Friday night/Saturday morning.
NDP’s Mills vows to continue the fight, Liberals finish in third place
By Fred Groves
For Rachael Mills, it’s just the beginning.
Coming up short in last Thursday night’s provincial election, the 31-yearold Harrow resident is committed to serving her community in the future.
“I can’t imagine myself going back. I always knew that my passion and concerns would lead me to helping people,” Mills told the River Town Times just half an hour before the results came in. “I am not going to disappear, you will see a lot more of me.”
PC incumbent Anthony Leardi finished way ahead with 30,785 votes and will represent Essex County for a second term. Mills was a distant second at 12,047 in her first taste of politics.
With a large group of supporters at Tailgaters Sports Bar in Essex, it did not take long for the NDP faithful to realize that Leardi was the clear winner.
The first numbers saw the PC candidate with 380 votes compared to 156 for Mills and Liberal candidate Tamara
Stomp at 99.
“The results weren’t what we were hoping for (in Essex) but no one is getting rid of me that easy. This is just the trail head,” said Mills.
As the numbers from the 56 polls in the Essex riding unfolded, Mills
went about the business of interacting with supporters and even cutting and serving a cake to show her gratitude.
“A lot of the attention was on me, but I was supported by all the people in this room,” said Mills who at times had to fight off some personal emotions.
Among those with her throughout the course of the short 30-day election were Essex town councillor Kim Verbeek, former MPP Taras Natyshak and former MP Tracey Ramsey.
Natyshak was the MPP for 11 years before stepping down.
“Elections are emotional,” said Natyshak. “I held the seat for too long. I want to be able to pass the torch and I am very proud of this woman,” he noted of Mills.
There were 108,089 registered voters in the Essex riding this go around and 51 per cent turned out to fill out a ballot compared to 47 per cent in 2022. Three years ago, NDP candidate Ron LeClair had 13,793 votes.
Although the NDP did not win back the seat in Essex, there were a few cheers when it was announced that Marit Styles and her party would
once again form the official opposition behind Doug Ford’s third straight PC majority government.
It was a disappointing finish for former Kingsville Deputy Mayor Tamara Stomp who came in third behind Leardi and Mills.
The Liberal candidate received 8,707 votes (15.69 percent) which was more than double of what candidate Manpreet Brar got in the 2022 provincial election.
“I wish I would have gotten more numbers,” said Stomp.
With a possible federal election looming and a 2026 municipal election approaching, Stomp said she is undecided on what she will do in the future.
“I have no direct plans. I am going to sit around and think about it. I will continue to work on my boards and my non-profits.”
Stomp said the primary issues of concern in Ontario continue to be health care, affordable housing and education.
Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie did not get elected in her riding but her party did manage to pick up five more seats and re-gain official party status.
County warden would be welcome to at least talking about regional police possibility
Continued from Page 1
Leamington looked at joining with the Windsor Police Service or with Chatham-Kent, but cost factors led them to return to the OPP.
“They were cost prohibitive,” MacDonald said of the alternatives. “I don’t know how you can compete with the OPP.”
MacDonald said Leamington is “reasonably satisfied with the OPP” and the coverage they receive. While there is always an effort to improve, there has to be the ability to afford it.
MacDonald added she first heard of Amherstburg’s policing situation through the media and has done a lot of interviews about it.
The county warden believed sometimes regionalization on a service can start with an idea. She assumed something would be brought up at the March 5 meeting.
“Sometimes you have to start somewhere and sometimes there is a catalyst that starts it for you,” she said.
“I’d love to have the conversation (about policing),” said MacDonald. “It would be an interesting conversation to have.”
NDP candidate Rachael Mills (left) serves cake to supporters during her election night gathering in Essex last Thursday night.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Waterfront areas for fishing should be provided free-of-charge
I have been a resident of Anderdon Township (Amherstburg) for 52 years. I was raised in the River Canard area and was a frequent visitor to LaSalle and Amherstburg for various social functions and entertainment, among many other things.
After reading the council meeting article I find it totally disgusting that we have become a society of haves and have nots. I can remember when we were able to have access to the beautiful river.
Over the years various town councils have been wanting to limit public access to river activities one after
the other. There used to be a boat ramp at the coal yard that gave small boat owners access to a day’s use for no charge. Now it is the “Navy Yard.”
There was a small beach on the south side of town (Duby’s beach). Every weekend people would be there swimming and barbecuing.
The town let it go or didn’t bid on it and it sold as a building lot. There was a beach at the end of Old Front Road called Bailey’s beach; it had a pavilion where there were teen dances and entertainment every weekend. It is now sold to subdivided lots. All
access to the river was erased over the years without consideration to what the general public actually wants. I found it very disturbing that so much money has been invested in the Navy Yard and that we can’t even find space for a few townspeople to go fishing for a day or have space to dock a small boat and have access to the town and maybe visit our businesses and eateries.
The park as it stands with all these silly restrictions is a waste of the only river frontage that the town owns. Too bad they sold all that was given to them by Anderdon Township. It was
not Amherstburg’s to sell but amalgamation does things that should have never happened. Remember whose idea it was for amalgamation. I find it very hard to believe that part of the Navy Yard Park can’t be divided for the use of Amherstburg residents to use for fishing, boating, canoeing without being charged. The park is huge it shouldn’t be a problem to accommodate all town residents free of charge.
Families of sick children who need out-of-town care need to be remembered
To our newly elected provincial officials, I congratulate you on your success and wish you well.
As you embark on this next chapter, I ask that you please not forget about the many families who make the over 5,000 trips to London every year so that their children can access emergency and ongoing care hospital services that they don’t have access to here.
I ask that you remember the up to three paediatric patients sent to SickKids hospital every month. I ask that you acknowledge how difficult it is
financially to have to leave for our children’s care and not have access to RMHC due to daily waitlists and that not having access to a travel health grant is incredibly difficult and adds worry and stress to an already burdensome situation.
I ask that you please remember the up to six paediatric patients sent to the U.S. every month, and that it costs OHIP millions of U.S. dollars a year to do so.
I ask that you not forget about the paediatric patients who don’t meet the criteria to be seen in PEDs diversion clinic, and how immensely difficult it is to have up to 12-plus hours or overnight waits just to be seen.
I also ask for that you please don’t forget about the continued code blacks and how scary it is for that individual when an ambulance is called and can’t come. I wish you the best and hope for compassion and empathy, especially for the many local families of medically fragile children who continue to face insurmountable challenges and that you can help us when we ask.
From a mother of a Rare Disease Warrior.
Creating a blueprint of where we want to go is key, says reader
Our financial future can be bright. With so much unrealized potential, we have been left into the winds of chance with no strong leadership or direction.
Economic development is key to our future wellbeing. In close proximity to Windsor and beyond, McGregor and the expanded Howard Avenue Industrial Park are major assets.
Close to major transportation routes, and the new Gordie Howe bridge soon to open, we will be put right in the middle of a new major commercial hub, attracting investments, changing our surroundings for decades to come.
Strong leadership and proper planning is required. We are part of the Essex County development commission, with no results. We have the option to name our own commission.
In close co-operation with our planning department, we have nothing to
lose. Windsor has their own commission with good results. We are in a very competitive business environment and it requires an open mind to adjust to new challenges. The ultimate goal is to build a diverse community with a strong job market, the main of engine of a strong, vibrant community.
Having a vision of where we want to go, and creating a blueprint to get us there is the key. Public consultation is essential, and we cannot be left behind. We are distinctively different from other communities, promoting our assets, too many to list, with a detailed marketing plan on the benefit of doing business in Amherstburg.
We must show a business-friendly culture, and a process for timely decision making. We must assist and advise.
Other communities have started this process, such as Windsor and LaSalle.
They are our main competitors. Unlike other communities, we have easy access to the Detroit River and a freshwater port as well as a rail line being complemented with a future parkway to Howard Ave. Our commitments to infrastructure investments will pay dividends. Promoting Amherstburg
and McGregor, together or apart, for the benefit of the greater Amherstburg. This has been said before, but repetition is a very effective tool in marketing.
Thank you,
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Council decides that user fees coming for temporary patio extensions
By Ron Giofu
Amherstburg town council will be imposing fees for businesses wishing to set up temporary patio extensions.
Town council received a report from manager of licensing and enforcement Bill Tetler at its most recent meeting and also directed administration to amend the temporary patio extensions bylaw to establish a yearly application fee of $300 per application, plus a $2 per square foot fee, except for applications approved within a road closure.
That was one of four options presented by Tetler in his report with others being just a $300 application fee per application, the application fee of $300 plus $2 per square foot with no consideration of whether or not the road was closed, or leaving the status quo, which was no fee associated with a temporary patio extension.
As part of the approved motion, town administration will also bring forward an operating budget issue paper for the 2026 budget deliberations, outlining potential revenue increases from applying commercial lease rates to temporary patio extensions on town property.
Councillor Molly Allaire asked how the town arrived at the $2 per square foot portion of the charge. Tetler said other comparable municipalities charge for parking and use the fee to make up for that lost revenue, but Amherstburg does not charge for parking so that portion of the fee is lower than the other municipalities.
Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb wanted clarification around what is contained in the Municipal Act, stating he was of the understanding that the town could only recoup costs and not generate revenue. CAO Valerie Critchley said a licensing service has to have full cost recovery and not make a profit.
“With respect to real estate, we are allowed to sell real estate at fair market value. This is not being called a licensing fee. This is being called a temporary patio application. That’s the difference,” said Critchley.
Councillor Diane Pouget had concerns over safety issues over patios being in the roadway. She questioned if there was an accident involving vehicles or with staff with trays crossing a sidewalk, could council be held responsible.
Critchley said a restaurant owner who wants a temporary patio extension would have to have insurance and that the town is a co-insurer and is fully indemnified. The town also has corporate insurance to protect council members, she added.
Accessibility requirements under the AODA act were also addressed by Pouget, with clerk Kevin Fox stating if there is provincial regulations, “those would apply wherever they apply.” Provincial regulations would still have to apply regardless of whether something is a town-approved initiative or not, he noted.
Councillor Peter Courtney said while the town doesn’t charge for parking, there is “value to land and there is a value to extending a commercial real estate space.” It was Courtney who brought forth the addition to the motion to have the issue paper returned to the 2026 budget deliberation.
Under questioning from Councillor Don McArthur, Tetler stated those inside of a road closure such as Open Air Weekends would have to pay the $300 application fee but not necessarily the square footage fee. The motion council passed was to have the square footage fee, except inside of a street closure.
“I guess in terms of the success of Open Air, we’re just hoping, if we pass this, that these businesses would pay this fee. We don’t know that they would. There could just be open spaces,” said McArthur.
Tetler responded by stating that would be a business decision of each of the establishments.
Businesses that put out tables and expand their footprint during Open Air would have to pay an application fee, Tetler clarified. Councillor Linden Crain wanted confirmation on types of patios and whether there would be an application fee, such as a wooden structure like in front of the Salty Dog or whether putting tables out right on the street without an actual structure like Burger 67 or The Artisan Grill.
“If council chooses to move forward with an application fee, that will be applicable across the board for anyone with a temporary patio that serves food and drink,” said Tetler.
Allaire said a $300 application fee with a $2 square footage fee, except for within street closures, made sense to her. She said she didn’t want to hinder Open Air Weekends.
“I’m not going to hinder those groups,” she said. “I want to make sure those outside that who have (a patio) seven days a week have an extra fee they have to pay. It’s free real estate.”
If a business puts up a fixed structure that is not easily set up and taken down during Open Air Weekends, they could be subject to a square footage fee because they would be able to use it more than just during a road closure, noted deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne. If a business in the footprint repeats what they did last year, they are still subject to a $300 fee.
Mayor Michael Prue asked what would happen to the money collected for the square footage fee.
“I would think it would take logical sense to put it into our parking fund,” said Prue.
Prue recalled the town charged the Bucket List Coffee Roastery in lieu for not having enough parking spaces. Osborne agreed it could go into the parking reserve and address future needs.
Courtney said it would be difficult to charge a square
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footage fee to those within the Open Air footprint as they take their tables and chairs down after the event versus having a more fixed structure. The issue paper will help council “fine tune” what the square footage fee could look like in the future.
Pouget said she didn’t think it was fair to charge a business like Salty Dog a square footage fee but not others in the footprint who are doing the same thing, but with tables and chairs that are moved in when the streets are not closed.
“They are using town real estate property just like Salty Dog but it’s not a permanent structure. That’s the only thing that’s different about this,” said Pouget. McArthur opposed the motion, stating “I don’t want to add another tax on top of all the other fees and taxes that Amherstburg businesses pay.”
“We have the Trump tariff threat, we have signs of a wavering economy,” McArthur continued. “I don’t want our businesses to pay for something that the residents have told us overwhelmingly that they want – more and additional patios in the downtown core.”
Imposing an application fee on businesses in the Open Air footprint hasn’t been done in the past and businesses have made capital investments. He believed that it was a punitive measure to charge a square footage fee for a fixed patio when the town doesn’t charge for parking as it is.
Stating he wants to promote tourism and economic development, McArthur said he is going to keep promoting that.
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. What we have wins awards,” he said.
Gibb opposed the motion as well, stating he thought about the issue “100 different ways” but “it just feels like a cash grab.” The $300 application fee is fair, he believed, but to charge money for something that town doesn’t charge for now like parking was something he didn’t agree with it.
“I cannot get past the idea it’s a cash grab,” he said. “I also don’t think businesses who are forced to be in the Open Air footprint should pay a fee for their patios. If I lose (the vote), I lose, but I want to be very clear – I was $300 (for the application fee) and that was it.”
Crain added he opposed the motion, stating he would favour a simple $300 per application fee. To add something else to the mix, could be harmful. Crain, the chair of the economic development committee, said the addition of the square footage fee “is overkill.”
Courtney said businesses who pay the square footage fee outside the footprint would be showing confidence they can recoup the cost of the fees. Allaire said the issue is about fairness, and questioned how fair it is that some businesses get to use town property without a fee.
“It’s literally extra free real estate,” she said. “It comes down to roughly $4 per day. If they’re not making an extra $4 per day off that patio, I’d be surprised. They are getting a lot of extra business because of it.”
Pouget said she supported Courtney’s motion “because we have to charge something.”
“We have to be fair,” she said.
In a recorded vote, Prue, Courtney, Pouget and Allaire were in favour, while Gibb, Crain and McArthur were opposed.
Sold out crowd at fundraiser helps Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc.
By Ron Giofu
Almost 200 pasta dinners were sold Sunday night 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. It was a sold out event, with charity president Larry Allen stating it meant 172 people filled the Richmond St. hall while roughly another 20 brought home take-out meals.
A final total of how much money was raised was not available as of press time.
“It’s great to see the big turnout,” said Allen.
Father Donato Lwiyando, a missionary priest, founded a girls shelter in his hometown, Bukavu, D.R. Congo in 2006. His work as a priest led him to Amherstburg where he spent three years as the associate pastor at St. John the Baptist Church, but he went home to work directly with the shelters and the children and youth that reside there.
Allen said the plight of the children and
youth in the D.R. Congo was shared with St. John the Baptist Church social justice committee and that led to the founding of the charity in Amherstburg.
“We got to know what is going on in his country,” said Allen.
Girls have been facing rape, homelessness and violence in the African nation, and the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. has been raising money for the shelters,
which now includes two additional shelters.
“We need to raise money to keep it going,” said Allen. “We sent everything in U.S. dollars to Father Donato.”
Allen said the charity plans another dinner fundraiser in the fall at Coachwood Golf and Country Club. The huge charity yard sale will no longer be held, but Allen said the charity plans to have smaller yard sales at different locations.
Sponsors and supporters were thanked as Allen said that helps them stay running, keep the charity promoted and “keeps the energy going.”
Mary Beneteau, the non-profit organization’s secretary, keeps in regular communication with Father Donato and reported the children and youth are being fed for now, but supplies are running low. She said Father Donato has been ill with abdominal pain, but reported he is getting better.
War in the D.R. Congo, centred around precious minerals in the country, has caused the children and youth to be moved and the closure of schools and
banks in Bukavu. She was thankful when Rwandan soldiers and a rebel paramilitary group known as M23 didn’t kill anyone or cause any fighting when in Bukavu. Beneteau said Father Donato reported Rwanda and M23 are “aggressors” in the war as they go after the mines where the minerals come from.
Children and youth are not yet safe to go back into the streets to go to school, she added, with Father Donato also worried about the “street kids.” The “street kids” are young people who are forced to live on the streets and get regular meals from the shelter.
“Father has been unable to get food to the street kids and is very concerned about them,” said Beneteau.
The fact so many people turned out to Sunday night’s dinner in Amherstburg is “a sign of hope and love,” she believed. She expressed her thanks to all who supported it, adding Father Donato blessed them as well.
To make a donation or to sponsor a child in the D.R. Congo, visit www.hopeislife.ca.
Four Amherstburg events finish among FEO’s Top 100 Festivals and Events
By RTT Staff
Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) has named its 2025 Top 100 Festivals and Events with four Amherstburg events listed.
The FEO “SYNERGY” Conference ran from Feb. 24-26 in Kitchener. During the Awards Gala, the winners were announced. According to a press release from FEO, submissions “from FEO
members were received for consideration in the fall of 2024 and were judged by an independent panel of judges. Festivals and events of all kinds from every corner of Ontario were represented in the submissions – from community festivals to internationally recognized events.”
The listing of events were divided into different regions with nine events of the Top 100 being from the Southwest Ontario Tourism Region. Four of those
nine were Amherstburg events, including Open Air Weekends, the River Lights Winter Festival, the TRUE Festival and the Amherstburg Uncommon Festival.
Other events recognized in this region were Bright Lights Windsor, the Chatham Retrofest, Eat and Drink Norfolk, the Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show and the Oxford Renaissance Festival.
Inductees to the FEO Hall of Fame were Peter Gismondi of the Superior
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Events Group and Pat Silver from “Sing! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival.” Sadie Phillips from Riverfest Elora was Youth Volunteer of the Year and Steve Deighton of the Dundas Cactus Festival won Volunteer of the Year. Municipalities of the Year were the Town of Georgina (population less than 50,000), the City of Pickering (50,000150,000) and the City of Markham (150,000-plus).
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Mary Beneteau, secretary with The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc., holds a flyer for a youth in D.R. Congo that needs to be sponsored.
Chili-filled weekend recently held in and around Amherstburg
Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission
and
By Ron Giofu
If you like chili, Amherstburg was the place to be last weekend.
There were four chili-themed events over one recent weekend, the first of which was the Friday night at the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. President Tim McAllister served up his awardwinning chili in both spicy, mild and vegetarian varieties as a fundraiser for the mission..
Tables were filled at the mission and it was a good sight to see for McAllister and his volunteer board members.
“I’m very excited about the turnout,” said McAllister. “They love the chili and the volunteers really helped out. Everyone stepped up to the plate and made my job easy.”
“It’s pretty busy,” said board member Jill Kanwischer. “It’s what we were hoping for. We are pleased with the support.”
Kanwischer said the community always
part of the Pat Mayea Memorial Chili Cookoff in River Canard Feb. 22.
steps up to support the mission.
“People are always looking to support the mission. Everyone has been so supportive this year,” she said. “It’s nice to see. This community never fails us.”
One of the bigger fundraiser the mission has is several months away, with the golf tournament planned for Aug. 16 at Dominion Golf Club in LaSalle.
The Pat Mayea Memorial Chili Cookoff was the following Saturday afternoon at the River Canard K of C Hall. Proceeds went back into the Columbian Club with a total of 16 entrants being first having their chili sampled by a panel of three judges with a “people’s choice” award also presented.
“We decided we wanted to have something Saturday afternoon for members and guests,” said Terry Burns, one of the organizers.
People didn’t have to be members to join, he added, as anyone could enter their chili if they heard about the cookoff.
“It’s free to the public. It’s a combination of people in the area who entered,” said Burns, also a LaSalle town councillor.
New spa and sauna store officially opens
By Ron Giofu
A new spa and sauna store has opened in Amherstburg.
The official opening took place last Friday where Mayor Michael Prue cut the ribbon. Located at the rear of 200 St. Arnaud St., Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store’s second location is now in town.
Their first location is at 5163 Walker Road in Windsor with six more planned for throughout Essex County and into Chatham-Kent and Sarnia. Owner Brad Hotchkiss said the Windsor location has sold over 160 hot tubs each of the last two years and they are expecting things to get even better.
“This year has been a bit higher than the previous year,” said Hotchkiss. “We’re expecting big things.”
Hotchkiss said he has formed a partnership with Poseidon Pools & Landscape in Amherstburg. While its own standalone business, he said they work with Poseidon on projects as well.
“We’re taking care of the hot tubs,” Hotchkiss said.
Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store has at
“Whoever heard about it submitted.”
About 100 people usually attend the River Canard event, mainly from Amherstburg and LaSalle.
The Fort Malden Chapter #268 Order of the Eastern Star held its third annual chili cookoff Saturday night at the Masonic Lodge on Murray St.
“The proceeds go to the Bryerswood Youth Camp run by the Optimists on Texas Road,” said Dave Cozens, a Mason who helped organize the event.
Two of the judges were from Bryerswood – Ian Phillips and Ralph Poupard – while CTV Windsor’s Michelle Maluske also judged. Six local chefs entered their chili this year.
Cozens estimated they had about 70 people in attendance.
“It’s more than we expected,” said Cozens. “We’re very pleased with the turnout and love the fact it’s helping out Bryerswood.”
The third annual “Chili Fest” was held the following Sunday afternoon (Feb.
It
23) at Wolfhead Distillery. Director of marketing and events Danielle Moldovan said eight local businesses took part in creating chili for the 500 people that attended.
“They have to cook over an open flame,” she explained.
Border City Barbecue helped co-ordinate who would be in the chili cookoff and the top prize was $500 and bragging rights.
Moldovan said Wolfhead had worked with Border City Barbecue in the past and decided to try something in the winter months, so they developed “Chili Fest.” It attracts people from Windsor-Essex County but also as far as London and Michigan.
“I think people like being out in the cold,” she said, adding some are reminded of camping when eating food cooked over an open fire.
Moldovan added they have held it in January and in March, and have now tried February.
“We’re trying to find the sweet spot,” she said.
Joined by owner Brad Hotchkiss and his team as well as members of council, Mayor Michael Prue cut the ribbon at Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store.
least 12 different models of hot tubs and another dozen models of saunas that they carry. They also handle repairs, he said.
Hotchkiss, who is originally from Amherstburg, said he left the area for a number of years and has returned.
“It’s nice to be back and open a business,” he said. “The overall reaction has been great. We’re looking forward to finding out what the community needs and helping out.”
Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store is about small town service and a personal touch, he added.
“It’s all about five-star service,” he said.
Prue said he was impressed by the size of their facility and welcomed Windsor Hot Tub & Sauna Store to town.
“I think people are going to want to come here. I wish you nothing but success,” the mayor told Hotchkiss and his team, adding the town is proud the second location is here.
“So many businesses are choosing to locate here. Our town is booming,” he said.
For more information, visit www.windsorhottubstore.com or call 519-919-6340.
was a busy scene at Wolfhead Distillery’s “Chili Fest” with eight businesses participating.
People line up to get chili at the cookoff held at the Masonic Lodge on Murray St. Proceeds benefit Bryerswood Youth Camp.
Tim and Cathy DeHetre, Bailey Griggs and Joe Shaw were
president Tim McAllister
vice president Zainia Brockett serve up chili at the mission.
Information sought by LaSalle on what Amherstburg’s specific policing needs are
By Ron Giofu
With the Town of LaSalle listed as one of the routes Amherstburg wants to explore as the future of policing, LaSalle’s mayor is open to discussions.
That said, Crystal Meloche said that things are still in the infancy stages and she and her municipality need to hear more before gauging their level of interest.
“It’s in the very, very early stages to say if there is any interest or not,” Meloche told the River Town Times last week.
Meloche said she needs to sit with her colleague, Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue, to find out more information. She said LaSalle wants to know what type of service Amherstburg wants and what Amherstburg’s asks are in terms of cost and level of service.
“Once I have answers to those questions, we will see if it is possible to do something between the two municipalities,” said Meloche. “I think it’s worth having the conversation. I think we need to understand what Amherstburg wants in policing.”
LaSalle has a successful police service that its residents are proud of, Meloche said, but she noted it does come with a cost. Residents want their police service as it is but she indicated conversations with Amherstburg will go forward to find out if something could be worked out.
Meloche said as of last Friday she has had “a quick conversation” with Prue but nothing further.
“We haven’t sat down and had an official meeting yet,” said the LaSalle mayor.
The issue is “still really new,” she said, as Amherstburg town council only gave direction Feb. 24 on what it is looking to do. In addition to exploring an option with LaSalle, Amherstburg council voted to check out staying with the Windsor Police Service, explore re-establishing the Amherstburg Police Service, getting an OPP costing and reach out to see the level of interest in a county-wide police service.
There hasn’t been much feedback as of yet in LaSalle regarding Amherstburg’s motion, with Meloche noting the meeting with Prue around what Amherstburg wants has to come first. She said not only would LaSalle town council have to discuss the matter, but so would the LaSalle Police Services Board.
There are economies of scale that could be found with a regional service, but noted there are start-up costs that could be prohibitive. From a LaSalle standpoint, she said they are not seeking to make any changes.
There are a lot of similarities between Amherstburg and LaSalle, but Meloche said her job is to make sure things make sense for LaSalle and to ensure it serves their interests.
County remuneration report released
By Ron Giofu
The remuneration report for members of Essex County council and others who were compensated in any way by the county last year has been released.
The 14 members of Essex County council amassed a total remuneration of $584,074.16 in 2024. Each member received a salary with the total also reflecting other expenses that were paid out, including indemnities, mileage, conference per diems and expenses. The report that appeared on the Feb. 19 county council agenda listed zeroes for out-of-town and association meetings per diems and expenses.
Warden Hilda MacDonald, also the mayor of Leamington, had an overall remuneration total of $109,015.17. Of that, her salary as warden was $92,719.51.
Deputy Warden Joe Bachetti had a 2024 salary of $38,873.46 and a total remuneration figure of $50,417.59 once all other earnings and expenses were factored in.
Most other members of Essex County council each had salaries of $29,794, except LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche, LaSalle Deputy Mayor Michael Akpata and Kingsville Deputy Mayor Kim DeYong. Those three had salaries of $25,534.47 before other forms of remuneration were factored in, bringing their overall totals to $35,565.47, $35,730.94 and $35,764.21 respectively.
The two Amherstburg members of Essex County council – Mayor Michael Prue and Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb –had totals of $35,545.82 and $35,225.86.
Prue has gone public with several donations to various charitable groups in Amherstburg instead of accepting the raise county council voted for earlier this term.
Total remuneration figures for the other members of county council included Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey ($39,341.15), Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy ($38,680.17), Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara ($33,685.58), Kingsville Mayor Dennis Rogers ($33,778.76), Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley ($36,015.41) and Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt ($30,333.79).
The County of Essex also paid out $22,815.71 to others, with some being county council alternates or those who received compensation or reimbursement in some fashion for committee or other works.
Councillor Diane Pouget, the county council alternate for Amherstburg, had a total remuneration of $1,552.74 for 2024.
Those listed in the 2024 schedule of other remuneration for the county included Deborah Alexander ($1,627.70), Katie Blais ($182.52), Terry Burns ($843.12), Mark Carrick ($1,140.80), the City of Windsor ($1,455), Sherri Currie ($1,676.56), Tony Gaffan ($573.20), Brian Houston ($572.36), Rachel Jewell ($1,608.10), John Kerr ($597), Diana Kirkbride ($1,645.54), Heather Latam ($1,133.12), Louise Masse ($156.40), Maria McPherson ($243), Julie Miles ($1,654.04), Susan Morand ($243), Tadeusz Polewski ($171.80), Dennis Sanson ($3,044.96), Lauren Segedin ($1,233.81), Paul Tiessen ($779) and Kim Verbeek ($681.94).
The Price of Freedom
Collective Theatre (ACT) teamed with the Amherstburg Freedom Museum to present three performances of “The Price of
The play recreates the story of John “Jack” Anderson, a freedom seeker facing an extradition trial. Three performances were held last weekend at the Capitol Theatre in Windsor. The play was created as part of the 50th anniversary of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. It was written by Carlos Anthony (who also played Anderson) and was directed by Chris Rabideau. More photos
ALSO
RTT PHOTOS BY
RON GIOFU
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You might feel like you have extra energy to chase goals and take bold actions this week, Aries. Your natural drive will be strong. Find opportunities to assert yourself in new areas.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
You may feel compelled to slow down and nurture your inner self this week, Taurus. Take time to reflect on your values and personal goals. If you have been feeling overwhelmed, get some rest.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
You are in a social mode this week, Gemini. Your communication skills will take center stage, and it’s a good time to collaborate or share ideas with others.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, your focus could shift toward long-term career goals in the next few days. Work to identify a clear vision of where you want to go and the path to get there.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, this week brings an adventurous energy that implores you to expand your horizons. Consider travel, new experiences or educational pursuits to make the most of your time.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
You may find yourself dealing with intense emotions this week, Virgo. You might realize that time is running out on something and you really need to make a move.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Relationships are especially important to you right now, Libra. Whether it is friendship, romance or business, your interactions with others are bound to be intense.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, this week requires heightened focus on daily routines and personal health. It’s a good time to prioritize self-care and improving your habits. A shift in your environment might help.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, your creativity and passion are elevated this week. You feel ready to pursue personal projects since your inspiration is booming.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Family matters takes precedence and garner your attention this week, Capricorn. You may feel a desire to create a sense of stability in your personal space. That may translate to redecorating.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, communication is key this week, whether it’s in social circles, at work or at home. You will engage in good conversation and exchange interesting ideas. Learn all you can along the way.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Finances come into focus this week, Pisces. You may wonder how you can improve your financial situation and make smarter choices when it comes to money.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
MARCH 2 - Luke Combs, Singer (35)
MARCH 3 - Camila Cabello, Singer (28)
MARCH 4 - Catherine O’Hara, Actress (71)
MARCH 5 - Taylor Hill, Model (29)
MARCH 6 - Shaquille O’Neal, Athlete (53)
MARCH 7 - Bryan Cranston, Actor (69)
MARCH 8 - Benny Blanco, Producer (37)
Public meeting held on lot additions
By Ron Giofu
A zoning bylaw amendment to increase the number of lots in a proposed subdivision was the subject of a public meeting last week.
The special planning meeting was held prior to the Feb. 24 meeting of town council. The report from town planner Janine Mastronardi stated the property at 1267 Front Road North is currently zoned holding Special Provision Residential Type 1B (h-R1B-2) Zone and designated Low Density Residential in the town’s Official Plan.
Mastronardi wrote the property has gone through “extensive planning processes to receive draft plan approval for Riverview Subdivision” and town council approved a zoning bylaw amendment for the subject lands Sept. 14, 2020. The County of Essex issued a “Notice of Decision on an application for approval of a Draft Plan of Subdivision.” On Aug. 8, 2022, Mastronardi said council approved a subdivision agreement which has subsequently been executed and registered.
Mastronardi said the applicant is in agreement to sell the property to a new developer. The request that has now come forward would increase the number of lots in the subdivision from 37 to 44. The subdivision would have single-detached dwellings.
The change in lot configuration requires a change in zoning, Mastronardi added. If approved, it would go from “holding Special Provision Residential Type 1B (h-R1B-2) Zone” to “holding Special Provision Residential Second
Density (h-R2-11) Zone.”
The discussion went into alternate dwelling units (ADUs), with Councillor Molly Allaire asking if these homes could have them. Mastronardi said the Provincial Planning Statement says any property serviced by sanitary sewers can have two additional units on the property.
“That number of 44 units could rise a bit of they could do that,” Allaire said.
Councillor Peter Courtney wanted to ensure there is adequate infrastructure along Front Road North for water, wastewater and storm sewers for at least 44 homes. Mastronardi said the county and the town requested the developer justification for the servicing for the plans with the documentation being provided to the town, county and ERCA. She said all are satisfied with what has been provided.
Mastronardi said all environmental requirements are still in place. There will be a five-metre conservation easement fenced with wildlife fencing with no gates to allow a corridor for the fox snake. A row of cedars will be planted along the south property line, she added.
Councillor Diane Pouget wanted to ensure it was compatible in that area should ADU’s go in. Mastronardi said the request was for seven additional lots for 1,400-square-foot homes with an attached garage with manager of planning services Christopher Aspila saying additional ADUs are allowed per provincial legislation but are subject to the town’s zoning bylaw.
Continued on Page 15
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to pet sitting.
Admirals oust Sharks after winning Game 7 of series
Amherstburg to take on Lakeshore in Stobbs semi-final
By Fred Groves
For the first time in six years, the Amherstburg Admirals are heading to the second round of the Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) playoffs.
The Admirals won 7-4 to take the seventh and final game of the West Stobbs Division Sunday night in Wheatley. Amherstburg will now go up against the defending provincial Jr. C champions, Lakeshore Canadiens.
“Their top six is definitely their strength. We can’t go shot for shot with them. They have too much firepower,” said Admirals head coach Zack Gervais.
Game 1 of the PJHL Stobbs Division semi-finals with the Canadiens goes Friday night at the Atlas Tube Centre in Lakeshore and then it’s back at the Libro Centre the next night in Amherstburg for Game 2.
“The boys are exhausted. Our team showed a lot of heart and poise and kept their temper,” said Gervais when asked about the series with the Sharks.
Gervais noted that penalties did plague the Admirals early in the series but a players-only meeting after Game 5 last week seemed to rectify the lack of discipline on the ice.
In front of 560 fans at the Shark Tank, as expected, it was a close one as Tyler Vriesema opened up the scoring for the visiting Admirals but Josh Chauvin evened the count for the hosts. Rory Sandison gave the visitors a one-goal lead before Chauvin got his
second to tie it at the break on a powerplay.
Two quick goals by Brady Drouillard, veteran Finnigan Russett, and another by defenceman Jake Goudreault gave Amherstburg a three-goal lead but with one second left in the middle period Chauvin got his third of the night.
“Our messages as coaches when we went in the room was to just stay calm and say that that was in the past,” said Gervais.
The third period saw Wyatt Goudie and Drew Booker score insurance markers into the empty net for Amherstburg while former Admiral Kyle Bleau replied for the Sharks.
It was the third goal in as many games for the rookie Goudie who was coming off a couple of injuries.
Gervais gave him and Dallas Kelly a lot of accolades for their play during the entire series.
“We’ve got some guys banged up but they are playing through everything,” said Gervais.
It was a huge weekend for Amherstburg as, after slipping behind in the series three games to two, they rebounded Saturday night with a dramatic 4-3 overtime win at home before clinching the following night.
Dallas Kelly gave the host Admirals a 1-0 lead last Saturday night at the Libro Centre but it was 2-1 for the visitors after 40 minutes.
Amherstburg dominated the third period as Sandison and Goudie connected. Wheatley goalie Ethan Handley was penalized for delay of game which set the stage for Ryan Clark’s overtime winner.
“Clark is a veteran. He’s won a Sutherland (Junior B) Cup and he came up big,” said Gervais.
It was Clark’s second point of the game and he was named the Admirals Player of the Game.
The Sharks and Admirals both finished with 43 points over the 42-game schedule and had four playoff games in seven nights.
The host Admirals battled back last Tuesday night but came up short 6-4 and the next night in Wheatley the Sharks prevailed with a 6-3 win to take the lead in the series.
SLAPSHOTS - After seven post-season games, Ryan Clark led offensively with two goals and seven assists for nine points (2-7-9), followed by Drew Booker and his two linemates Brett Jones and Rory Sandison all at 3-5-8… Between the pipes Dominic DeZorzi had a 2.91 GAA and a .910 save percentage… For the Sharks Josh Chavin led the way at 5-8-13 and Braydon Metchalfe at 3-5-8.
All girls soccer league starting in Essex County U15s go to Buffalo
By Ron Giofu
A new girls youth soccer league is getting off the ground in Essex County.
Unite Her Soccer is getting ready to launch in May 2025, offering players ages 8-16 (born 2007-2018) the opportunity to play in what organizers are calling “an empowering and inclusive environment.”
Founder Kara Murray said they want to create an environment where girls will stay in sports and feel comfortable remaining involved. She founded the organization Count Her In and it has evolved to Count Her In Sports.
The new league is sponsored by Count Her In and registered with the Ontario Soccer Association. She said the Unite Her Soccer provides a groundbreaking platform for girls to stay active, develop skills, and gain confidence. The program is also partnered with SC United Soccer Club, creating pathways to competitive leagues and post-secondary scholarships, Murray added.
“This is about more than just soccer,” said Murray. “We’re creating a space where girls can develop leadership, teamwork, and resilience - skills that will serve them beyond the field.”
For some girls, the opportunity to only play with boys can act as a deterrent
over time and leads them to drop out of sports. According to statistics provided by Count Her In, “research shows that seven in 10 girls drop out of sports before adolescence, often due to lack of access, loss of confidence, and the challenge of playing in male-dominated spaces. Unite Her Soccer aims to reverse this trend by fostering an environment where girls can thrive.”
“We want to change the outcome,” she added. “Rather than become upset, we created our own league.”
Games and practices will likely be in Kingsville or Harrow.
The league will have one game and one practice per month, with the league being run Mondays and Wednesdays.
“We hope to have eight to ten teams,” she said.
Registration is $100 per player, Murray stated, and that comes with a shirt, shorts, socks, a ball and a membership to Count Her In. Most registrations thus far have come from Harrow, Kingsville, Essex and Leamington with some also coming from Wheatley and Tilbury.
Skills on the sports field, ice pad or court can translate to other parts of life, she noted.
Registration runs through March 31. The season runs May through July. For more information or to register, visi www.unite-her.com.
Amherstburg North Stars U15 Selects, sponsored in part by the River Town Times, played in the Buffalo River Outdoor Classic tournament, in Buffalo, New York over the past weekend. Facing off against teams from the United States and Canada, they split four games over the weekend returning home with two wins and two losses. The River Town Times would like to extend our congratulations to all the players and coaching staff on their hard work.
RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES
Admirals forward Tyler Vriesma (25) gets tangled up with Sharks’ Mitchell Hickson (4) during last Tuesday’s game in Amherstburg.
Community Calendar
MONDAY, MARCH 10-FRIDAY, MARCH 14
MARCH BREAK AT BRYERSWOOD; Bryerswood Youth Camp hosting March Break camps every weekday during March Break. Monday’s theme is board games, Tuesday features TV game shows, Wednesday is active games, Thursday is games from the past and Friday is video games. Cost is $40 per day, register at www.bryerswood.com. Camp is located at 6480 Texas Road in Amherstburg.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE; Free entertainment series being presented at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church (129 Simcoe St., at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. Featuring Doc & The Rev, Penny Anne Beaudoin, Johnny Mac, Dave Wilson, Irish Dance and Lauren Victoria. Runs 7-9 p.m. Donations accepted, refreshments for sale.
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
ST. PATRICK’S DAY STORYTELLING & MUSIC; Being held at the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St., starting at 2:30 p.m. Storyteller Olwyn Coughlin will be on hand in the parlour with live music also to be held. Traditional soda bread, baked on the hearth in the historic kitchen, also being served. Admission by donation, all are welcome! Pre-registration is recommended, please e-mail parkhousemuseum@gmail.com or call 519-7362511.
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
SONGFEST #3; Being held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 11 Concession 3 North (at Alma St.) in Amherstburg. Runs from 2-4 p.m. If you love to sing, we will be singing favorite hymns and gospel songs very informally with coffee/tea and light refreshments. Come for the singing and fellowship. Help us “make a joyful noise unto the Lord.”
FRIDAY, MARCH 28
FISH FRY; Will be held at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Hosted by the Good Friday Procession group of St. John the Baptist Church. Runs from 4:306:30 p.m. Choice of fish or chicken dinner. 50/50 draw that evening as well. Of note, all you “Bingo goers”, double your fun and luck by coming out to support night before (Thurs., March 27).
SATURDAY, MARCH 29
CORNHOLE FOR EASTER SEALS; Presented by the Rotary Club of Amherstburg at the McGregor Columbian Club, 9560 Walker Road. Proceeds to support Easter Seals in
Windsor-Essex County. Fifty per cent payout on prizes. Doors open at 11 a.m., starts at 12 noon. Cost is $60 for a team of two. Register your team with ScoreHolio at https://bit.ly/ EasterSealsCornhole2025. Contact rotaryclubofamherstburg@ gmail.com for more information.
ONGOING
AMHERSTBURG’S COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR
DONATIONS; Despite the walk having concluded, donations are still welcome until March 31. Monetary contributions to www. cnoy.org/amherstburg will benefit The House Youth Centre. The House’s goal is $50,000. Program director Morghan Shearon, board member Amy Bailey and Shelley Kelly from lead sponsor Shooter’s Roadhouse (who has 29 years experience working in child welfare) spoke Feb. 22 about the importance of ACNOY.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners are required Monday-Friday from 2-4 p.m. to mop floors and to clean bathrooms, countertops, tables, carts, etc. Dishwashers needed Monday-Friday 1-3 p.m. to wash dishes, pots and pans. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday maintenance of the building. Commitment is one day or more per week, on a regular basis. If interested or for more info, send e-mail to aburgmission@yahoo.com.
FREE COMMUNITY MEALS; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. Everyone welcome. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is also showing “The Chosen” every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., after the meal. Free to attend, everyone welcome. Church is located at 266 King St. in Amherstburg (entrance off of Gore St.).
GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP; Lighthouse Church is offering “Griefshare,” a 13-week support group meeting every Tuesday. Runs through April 29 from 1-2:30 p.m. at Lighthouse Church. For more info or to register, call 519-962-9525. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).
ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call Susanne at 519990-2775.
QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild wants to cordially invite guests/new members to attend our monthly
meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North Woodslee at 7 p.m. Our purpose is to promote and encourage the art of quilting in Essex County. 519-726-5869
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD EVENTS; Charity bingo every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Friday to order call 519-734-8575. Dinner from 4:306 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road. St. Patrick’s Day fundraising dinner Saturday, March 15 $20 per person. Irish dancers, band. Advance tickets required. Tickets available at the hall now.
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) on Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties start back up in September.
SERVICE TIME CHANGE; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., has changed the times of their Sunday service. There is now one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.
MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are 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 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 special luncheons and a beautiful 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.
MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.
MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with free lunch between 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. All donations welcome.
ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors welcome. We are on Facebook!
ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@ bryerswood.com.
BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association
Local elementary students open doors to new JK students
By Ron Giofu
Local elementary schools from the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) and Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) opened their doors in an attempt to showcase themselves to new students and parents.
Junior Kindergarten (JK) open houses were held at elementary schools where students got a look at their future schools and parents got a look at the programs that were available.
At Anderdon Public School, vice principal Lisa Major said student ambassadors were welcoming new students and families to the school.
“They are taking the lead to take families around and show what the school has to offer,” said Major.
Music and drama programs were highlighted as were the school’s gymnasium and library, sports teams, clubs and other programming that will be available to the students as they
progress through the school.
“We also have a leadership club in Grade 7 and 8,” said Major.
The current JK enrollment at Anderdon is approximately 94 students, she added, and a growing population in the area plus what the school has to offer leads to a strong enrolment at Anderdon Public School.
“It’s looking good,” she said.
The number of families that turned out at the JK open house was
encouraging, she added.
“It’s been an awesome turnout,” said Major.
Major pointed out there were also 28 staff members who volunteered to stay late and help out.
“That speaks volumes of the community we have at Anderdon,” she said.
“That’s very amazing to me.”
Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School principal Marisa Wismer said it was great to meet the new families that
stopped into the school as well as to see current families bringing a younger sibling to enroll.
“It was amazing. Our turnout was phenomenal,” said Wismer.
The staff took the theme of the evening “and ran with it,” she added. A lot of time and effort went into the JK open house, Wismer mentioned.
“It’s really important we put our best foot forward,” said Wismer.
Feedback from families was positive and more and more people are coming to the school.
“The community of Amherstburg is growing. Our student population continues to grow,” she said. “We welcome that.”
Stella Maris promotes an inclusive atmosphere that highlights their faith and the school community.
“It’s one of our favourite events we look forward to every year,” said Wismer. “It’s all thanks to the amazing team effort from the staff at Stella Maris.”
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Giuliano Acosta enjoys his time playing at the Stella Maris JK open house (left) while Jaxon and Landon Tooley do likewise at Anderdon Public School (right).
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There is no foot so small
Skate Amherstburg holds “Leap Into Spring” gala
By Ron Giofu
Skaters from Amherstburg, as well as those with clubs in Riverside and South Windsor, got a chance to demonstrate their skills last week.
Skate Amherstburg held its “Leap Into Spring” gala last Thursday night at the Libro Centre with 17 individual, pairs and groups of skaters performed over the roughly one-hour show.
“It’s a showcase for synchro teams,” explained Shelley Knapp, a synchro coach with Skate Amherstburg. “In Amherstburg, we have three teams.”
The gala was an attempt to give synchro teams a chance to get on the ice and show their talents, though it was not competitive last Thursday night.
“It just gives them an extra chance to perform,” said Knapp. “We also invited guest skaters.”
Local skaters were also part of the gala. The three synchro teams from Skate Amherstburg were the Starlights, the Starlights developmental team and the Diamond Divas adult synchro team.
Meeting held regarding more subdivision lots
Continued from Page 10
Pouget questioned about a traffic study, with Mastronardi stating a traffic engineer said there would be no additional impact with the seven additional lots and the County of Essex agreed with that assessment.
Dr. Mohamed Tabib from Colchester Heights East Development Inc. said they are asking for additional lots to bring the pricing of the homes down.
“We’re trying to stay within a budget that allows younger families to get into the housing market,” said Tabib. “We have no intention to build any additional units. The design is to have a kind of exclusive subdivision to complement the neighbourhood in the area. We’re not trying to build anything different than the theme of the homes in the area.”
Tabib said they are complying with zoning requirements and believes the outcome would be “an addition to the neighbourhood.” He said they are trying to have the highest price be $599,000.
“It’s an extra performance for them,” said Knapp. “There’s not a lot of competitions to go to. It’s a way to get in front of an audience.”
The “Leap Into Spring” was officially hosted by the Diamond Divas.
Skate Amherstburg will be staying busy on the ice during the spring.
The organization presents its 52nd annual ice show March 30 from 2-4 p.m. The theme this year is “Hittin’ the Streets with Rivertown Beats!” Guest skaters will be Tianyu Lin & Emmeline Little from the South Windsor Skating Club.
They have been selected by Skate Ontario to host the “Bring On The Fun” event the weekend of April 26-27.
TTown council voted to receive the report and all comments, and have everything summarized for a future council meeting.
Dellah Bedal skates in the recent “Leap Into Spring” gala at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg last Thursday night.
Members of the Starlights synchro team took part in the “Leap Into Spring” gala at the Libro Centre.
Emily Fox shows her skills during last Thursday night’s gala.
the
Theme:
Stay up to date with what’s happening in Amherstburg!
Daylight Savings Time! Move clocks ahead 1 hour! Bench & Tree Commemorations are now being accepted amherstburg.ca/ commemorative or call 519-736-5712
the walking trail or dog park at the Libro Sun 16
Get active at the Libro with Drop-In Activities
Skating for all ages, Yoga (All abilities) and Turf Tots
amherstburg.ca/ beactive
