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Super Santa Run attracts 700 people, raises $25K

By Ron Giofu

A record year for the Super Santa Run, Walk and Wheel has raised approximately $25,000 for local conservation projects.

The annual run last Saturday night, which immediately preceded the official launch of the River Lights Winter Festival, saw in the neighbourhood of 700 runners, walkers and those in wheelchairs participate.

All proceeds from the non-competitive race went to the Essex Region Conservation Foundation, ERCA’s fundraising arm.

The bulk of the participants were decked out in Santa Claus suits as they made their way around downtown streets and in the King’s Navy Yard Park.

Molly Allaire, who helped organize the race along with Walkers and Runners Around the County of Essex (WRACE), said about 50 of the record number of runners and walkers registered shortly before the event began.

“Every year, it has been increasing,” said Allaire, who is also an Amherstburg councillor and ERCA chair.

Allaire said the run, walk and wheel is drawing participants near and far, as people from not only Essex County and Windsor took part, but so did people from Michigan and from as far as Toronto.

“It’s so heartwarming because people say it’s part of their annual tradition,” said Allaire. “This is the kickoff of their holiday season.”

Continued on Page 6

River Lights underway

By Fred Groves

It’s officially Christmas season in Amherstburg.

Mayor Michael Prue and hundreds of visitors and local residents alike counted down to the lighting of the tree at Navy Yard Park last Saturday night at 6 p.m.

The annual tradition that dates back nearly 20 years was celebrated with caroling, hot chocolate, storytelling and the amazing fireworks display along the Detroit River front.

“I wait for this day all year. It’s my favourite night of the year,” said Prue.

Centred around the clock tower at the corner of Richmond St. and Dalhousie St., the night began with the annual Super Santa Run in which many donned Santa suits and ran or walked to the cheers of those who lined the streets.

The countdown to Christmas is on in Amherstburg with a pair of festive events last Saturday night. Roughly 700 participants took part in the Super Santa Run, Walk & Wheel (above) and that was followed by the official opening of the River Lights Winter Festival (right). The Santa Claus Parade is this coming Saturday (Nov. 22) at 6 p.m.

Ontario Heritage Trust unveils new plaques at River Canard bridge

By RTT Staff

The well-known bridge in River Canard now has a provincial designation.

The Ontario Heritage Trust - in partnership with the County of Essex, the Town of Amherstburg and the Town of LaSalle - unveiled a new provincial plaque commemorating the River Canard Bridge last Friday morning.

This bridge was described by the Ontario Heritage Trust as one that “exemplifies rapid change and growth in Depression-era Ontario, when infrastructure design balanced beauty with innovative engineering.”

The provincial plaques “mark milestones in the story of Ontario” by telling stories “of how people, communities and events shaped this province, and of the significant places where the story happened. Ontario’s heritage roads, bridges and historical crossings, like the River Canard Bridge, are landmarks in their communities. They connect people and places and have facilitated trade and cultural exchange in Ontario.”

“This iconic bridge that defines our community, River Canard and together with this remarkable building we are in today (St. Jospeh’s Church) this a remarkable community, full of history and it is grounded here forever. It is great day to recognize the historical significance of this area and I want to thank the heritage trust for doing this and for taking this step,” said Essex MPP Anthony Leardi.

LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche read the plaque aloud in English, while her counterpart, Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue read the French version.

Warden Hilda MacDonald offered her and the county’s thanks for making the plaques a reality.

remains the pride of this little hamlet (River Canard), but also of the whole county and it must be one of the most photographed pieces of architecture in this region. That is pretty remarkable for a small spot in the entire region. The bridge originally joined Sandwich West Township (now LaSalle) and Anderdon Township (now Amherstburg).”

The plaque text reads:

concrete engineering in Ontario. The design combined structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal, and it quickly became the pride of the community. Measuring 36.3 metres long (119 feet) and 7.32 metres wide (24 feet), its defining features include a single-spanned parabolic arch with 11 vertical concrete hangers per side, concrete balustrade railings and a cantilever sidewalk. This bridge and the neighbouring St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church are connected landmarks of the historical hamlet of River Canard, in one of the earliest French-Canadian settlements in Ontario. Framing the church, this bridge symbolizes innovation in civil engineering and celebrates local heritage and investment in community.”

Plaques are on each side of the bridge that straddles Amherstburg and LaSalle.

The Ontario Heritage Trust notes the hamlet of River Canard is one of the oldest Francophone settlements in Ontario. The first bridge crossing was built in 1793, only two years after Upper Canada was founded. The current bridge is from 1937, and its bowstring design represents a style once seen across the province. The Trust says these were built to accommodate increasing auto traffic through the early 20th century, though many were replaced as traffic needs continued to expand.

In House

Centre St., Essex | P.O. Box 115, Essex, ON N8M 2Y1 | Ph: 519-776-4268 | Email: contact@essexfreepress.com Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 9am-2pm, Fri. 9am-1pm,

Dignitaries and political leaders from around the area and county were in attendance for the ceremony, which started out at St. Joseph Church across the road and ended at the bridge itself.

“Thanks to the province of Ontario and the Ontario Heritage Trust for choosing to recognize and honour the River Canard Bridge with the Heritage Provincial Plaque. Thank you to county council members for supporting this project and to county staff for everything you did to bring this vision to life. These plaques and this ceremony are worthy reminders that the province of Ontario and the County of Essex have long been great partners in the planning of and building of vital public works projects,” said MacDonald. “Built in 1937, the original River Canard bridge was funded jointly by the Province of Ontario and Essex County and provided essential employment relief. And here we are 88 years later and key representatives from the county and the province are gathered together arm-in-arm to commemorate not only the historical significance of this beautiful bridge that together we built, but also the fact that we are still partnering, we’re still working together to build vital roadways and projects the benefit all of us in the region.”

of The Essex Free Press.

MacDonald added: “This iconic bridge

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FARM EQUIPMENT AUCTION

“Built in 1937 as part of the Ontario government’s Depression-era public works program, the construction of this bridge was funded jointly by the Province and Essex County and provided essential unemployment relief. A significant crossing point on the River Canard since the 18th century, the bridge links the Amherstburg and LaSalle communities. The increase of motorized vehicle traffic necessitated stronger transportation infrastructure and this reinforced concrete bowstring or tied-arch bridge replaced previous wood truss and steel bridges that came before it. The bridge is an example of early 20th-century

“The River Canard Bridge is more than a vital piece of infrastructure - it’s a living testament to our region’s engineering heritage and cultural history. As the last remaining bowstring bridge in the county road network, it stands as a rare and elegant example of early 20th-century design. Its presence makes it a landmark that connects our communities and generations,” added Allan Botham, the county’s director of infrastructure and planning services.

John Ecker, chair of the Ontario Heritage Trust, said the plaques commemorate the history of people who built Ontario.

“This bridge represents a moment in time when Ontario was rapidly becoming modern, requiring innovative engineering and design solutions to meet the challenges of the day. It is a remnant of a bygone era and is cherished by its community,” said Ecker.

The Ontario Heritage Trust unveiled heritage plaques on both saids of the River Canard bridge last Friday morning. Assisting with the unveiling were Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, Ontario Heritage Trust chair John Ecker, Warden Hilda MacDonald, LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche and Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue (left photo). The bridge with the plaque on the Amherstburg side is pictured at right.

CLEC celebrates $104,000 in OTF funding for “Future Proof” project

By RTT Staff

A local developmental services (DS) agency is celebrating funding received under the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) Resilient Communities fund.

Community Living Essex County (CLEC) received $104,000 in OTF funding, with that being the focal point of an announcement last Friday morning at CLEC’s head office in Essex.

The proceeds went towards the agency’s “Future Proof” project, one that is designed to help the organization adapt, innovate and continue delivering high quality supports to individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.

OTF volunteer Tony Francis read a statement from Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, noting the agency is working to ensure people with intellectual disabilities have the choices, support and opportunities “today and well into the future.”

Francis also outlined the grant application was well written and will allow for a more modern delivery of service.

Corey Dalgleish, executive director of Community Living Essex County, said the concept of “Future Proof”

arose about 18 months ago and has been worked on since then. CLEC worked with the consulting firm People Minded Business (PMB), a well-respected firm in the DS sector.

CLEC is working with the province’s “Journey to Belonging” framework and aligning with that, he said,

About the Study

NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTER #1

MUNICIPAL CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT SANITARY MASTER PLAN

The Town of Amherstburg is developing a Sanitary Master Plan to address current and future wastewater management needs. This plan aims to ensure environmental sustainability, public health, and reliable service for the Town’s growing population of 23,000 residents. The Master Plan will guide infrastructure improvements and support sustainable development over the next two decades.

Get Involved: Public Information Centre #1

Stakeholder input is a critical part of the Master Planning Process. The Town is hosting a Public Information Centre (PIC) to introduce the study review the existing sanitary system and its opportunities and constraints, and to review the study process. This will be the first of two planned PICs for this study.

PUBLIC INFORMATION CENTRE #1

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2ND, 2025 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M. ENERGY ROOM AT LIBRO CREDIT UNION CENTRE (3295 MELOCHE RD AMHERSTBURG, ON)

PIC #1 will provide you with an opportunity to hear project updates, provide input, and ask questions Representatives from the Town and their consultant will be available to discuss project information and respond to questions. Following PIC #1, comment are welcomed and will be received until January 2, 2025.

Following the event, the presentation and materials will be available on the project website at : https://www.talktheburg.ca/sanitary-master-plan, where additional comments can also be submitted. You may contact the project team anytime during the duration of this study with questions, comments, or concerns related to this study or to be added to the project contact list:

Todd Hewitt

Manager of Engineering Project Lead, Town of Amherstburg 512 Sandwich Street South Amherstburg, ON N9V 3R2 (519) 736-3664 ext. 2313 thewitt@amherstburg.ca

Julien Bell, P.Eng. Consultant Project Manager Project Lead,

and with a shifting DS sector and funding model, the “Future Proof” project. He said the project is a method to deliver supports in a sustainable way.

“We’re strengthening what really matters,” he said, “to serve people today and tomorrow.”

With funding being directed more towards people with intellectual disabilities and their families, Dalgleish indicated the agency wants to adapt and make sure they are meeting the needs of people they support and those looking for supports.

“When people think about resilience, they think about recovery,” said Dalgleish. “For us, it’s about reimagining.”

There is a “paradigm shift,” he added and the organization needs to be flexible, innovative and adapt services for what those supported want.

“We want to ensure we are as person-centric, person directed and individualized as possible,” he said. “If families are going to be empowered with direct funding it puts them in a new light,” said Dalgleish. “They’re now a customer and a customer doesn’t spend their resources somewhere that doesn’t meet their needs.”

CLEC board of directors chair Chad Sutherland thanked the OTF, the province and “everyone who contributed to the success of this project.”

Donation to WCCF

The organizers and sponsors of the Nov. 1 “Amherstburg Fights Cancer” fundraiser at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association got together last Tuesday afternoon to make their donation to the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation (WCCF). The final total raised was $13,120. From left: WCCF fundraising specialist Anita Riccio-Spagnuolo, Norbert Bolger, Carol Charette, organizers Norm and Janet Mickle, Kim Wheeler and John D’Alimonte. Norm Mickle is one of the three ambassadors for the WCCF’s “Grow On” campaign. The money will stay local and go towards upgraded radiation bunkers at the Windsor Regional Cancer Centre.

Community Living Essex County (CLEC) celebrated $104,000 in Ontario Trillium Grant funding last Friday. From left: CLEC executive director Corey Dalgleish, OTF volunteer Tony Francis and CLEC board chair Chad Sutherland.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Family thankful for charity vegetable garden support

Sincere thanks to all our friends and neighbours from LaSalle, Amherstburg and the Knights of Columbus of River Canard for supporting our Charity Vegetable Garden again this year.

Your support encourages us to continue to work hard and remain committed to this project.

A donation of $3,200 has been delivered to the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation to fund breast and prostate cancer programs in our local

Jingle

community. We couldn’t do it without you, and we appreciate your generosity.

Special thanks to Amherstburg Living for the beautiful article written in the October issue of their magazine.

Sincerely,

—Ron and Peg Chittle Amherstburg

Bell Run, Walk, Wheel raises funds for CLEC

By Ron Giofu

Runners, walkers and those in wheelchairs braved snow showers and slushy conditions all to raise funds for an area developmental services agency.

The 31st annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk & Wheel was held in snowy conditions Nov. 9 in Essex. Over 600 people signed up to participate in this year’s event, one of the larger turnouts they’ve had in recent years.

The Jingle Bell Run, Walk and Wheel was started at Ken Knapp Ford in Essex, as it has traditionally been when the late Bob Blair of Ken Knapp Ford help found the event.

Proceeds will benefit Community Living Essex County (CLEC).

Corey Dalgleish, executive director of CLEC, said the agency was pleased to see so many people turn out to support the agency.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the show of support,” said Dalgleish. “This is a great showing by the community.”

The proceeds will benefit the agency’s general operations and the support provides “jet fuel” into supporting the mission of CLEC. The agency supports over 700 people with intellectual disabilities in Essex County and their families.

Dalgleish said Ken Knapp Ford is a wonderful

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neighbour and a great support of Community Living Essex County. He noted the contributions that Blair made and that his spirit lives on.

“We’re grateful for people like Bob,” said Dalgleish. Volunteers, staff and supporters were also thanked, with the event seeing a kids’ dash, 2K race and 5K race.

James Knapp from Ken Knapp Ford called it one of the most difficult runs in the last number of years due to the weather.

“This is truly a community event,” he said.

Community Living Essex County board member Gillian Heisz also brought greetings, and she thanked all those who made it possible, including Ken Knapp Ford, the volunteers, CLEC staff and the participants.

Obituaries

Woman arrested after allegedly trying to use counterfeit cash

A 39-year-old woman was arrested after a matter involving alleged counterfeit money last week. The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment were called to a business in the 400 block of Sandwich St. S. around 2:30 p.m. last Friday for what police say was a report of the alleged fraud in progress.

Upon arrival, officers received information from staff members that a female customer was allegedly attempting to purchase items using counterfeit $100 bills.

Officers investigated and subsequently arrested and charged the female for Possessing Counterfeit Money and Utter or Use Counterfeit Money. The accused was subsequently released with a future court date. According to police, officers seized six counterfeit $100 bills as evidence.

The 31st annual Jingle Bell Run, Walk and Wheel was held Nov. 9. Participants are pictured working their way back to the finish line in the snowy conditions that occurred that morning.

ERCA board, staff voice concerns with province’s amalgamation proposal

By Ron Giofu

Provincial legislation that would, in part, merge Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities into seven, has met with pushback from the local conservation authority.

The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) board of directors met and had a lengthy debate on Bill 68 and voted to oppose the proposed boundary configuration that would see the Essex County and Windsor region become part of the “Lake Erie Regional Conservation Authority.”

That new authority would also include the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority (CA), the St. Clair Region CA, the Upper Thames River CA, Kettle Creek CA, Catfish Creek CA, Long Point Region CA and the Grand River CA, and stretch as far as the Guelph area.

The Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) would be created as part of the process, should the legislation be passed.

The ERCA board passed a lengthy resolution put forth by chair Molly Allaire, an Amherstburg councillor, which in part stated, that ERCA has already undertaken “significant modernization work aligned with provincial objectives” such as implementing a digital permitting and inspection system, improvements in transparency and client communication, improvements to data and network systems, doing internal reviews to identify opportunities for savings and efficiencies, and the conversion of redundant support and non-mandatory positions to front-line mandatory positions.

The motion stated that a vast geographical area could link areas with little watershed connection or economic alignment and dilute local accountability and municipal partnership. Other concerns in the motion included “substantial” transition costs and greater uncertainty and delay for builders, developers and farmers.

The board agreed to the resolution in the motion that opposed the creation of the “Lake Erie Conservation Authority” and called for “further provincial evaluation of a more focused specific model as a geographically coherent, cost-effective and locally accountable alternative that advances the government’s priorities of efficiency, red-tape reduction and timely housing delivery.”

Board members not only criticized the proposed legislation, they urged each other to spread the word of their concerns.

LaSalle Deputy Mayor Mike Akpata said the new conservation area would go from nine member municipalities to 81.

“I have a problem with this,” he said. “I don’t think it’s workable.”

Akpata also questioned how decisions made in Windsor-Essex County would resonate in places like London or Guelph. He added he was cynical about the legislation and called for ERCA to “challenge the legislation.”

“I am disheartened with the fact the provincial government would do this,” he said.

Windsor councillor Kieran McKenzie called it “atrocious legislation” and said it was the board’s job to stand up and defend the work they do.

“I’m appalled by the legislation that was brought forward,” said McKenzie.

McKenzie believed it could lead to decisions being made elsewhere “with different levels of accountability” that impact this area.

Lakeshore councillor Ryan McNamara didn’t believe

the pledge by the province that there wouldn’t be any jobs lost.

“I’ll be blunt. It will lead to job losses,” he claimed. McNamara feared the move to merge conservation areas will eventually lead to homes and businesses in areas that could be flooded. He also called for more information on the proposal.

“When I first saw the announcement from the province, I was shocked,” he said.

Windsor councillor and ERCA vice chair Jim Morrison encouraged colleagues and the public to “stay vocal” on the subject. He pointed out the programming that is offered at conservation areas and feared losing it.

“Let’s all stick together and support ERCA,” Morrison said.

CUPE Local 3784 president Lisa Limarzi, who represents unionized workers with ERCA, told the board they are “deeply concerned” with the legislation. She said if an office is not maintained in the region, staff could face relocation. Staff could choose to retire or seek other employment, and take their expertise on local matters with them. The “uncertainty” around the proposed legislation could lead to a “mass exodus,” she stated.

“CUPE will continue to fight for workers and local conservation,” she said, adding on a pair of occasions that feedback can be left online at ero.ontario.ca/ notice/025/1257.

ERCA CAO Tim Byrne said it was “heartwarming” to hear support of local conservation from staff. He called for more support from municipalities and the public. He said he, and other conservation authority CAO’s, found out Oct. 31 and has already met with Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie, the parliamentary assistant for the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks.

“It was open and honest dialogue,” said Byrne. Byrne added “there are things here that destroy local accountability, local transparency and local investment” and “there has been zero consultation about any of this.”

Alexandru Cioban, spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, said the province is taking steps to help conservation authorities provide quicker results for communities.

“Our government is taking action to empower conservation authorities to deliver faster and more efficient outcomes for the communities they serve. As part of this framework, we are consulting on consolidating 36 existing conservation authorities into seven regional watershed-based authorities – which will help inform next steps,” Cioban said in a statement to the River Town Times. “To be clear, conservation authorities will continue to provide the same programs and services they deliver today. This includes protecting people and property from natural hazards, safeguarding sources of drinking water, and managing conservation lands, trails, and other recreational and educational facilities. Their mandate, service areas, and funding models will remain unchanged, and boards will continue to be municipally appointed.”

In the original Oct. 31 provincial announcement, it stated: “Ontario currently has a fragmented system of 36 conservation authorities, each of which have different policies, standards, fees and levels of staffing and technical capabilities. This has led to unpredictable and inconsistent turnaround times for approvals across all conservation authorities, creating uncertainty and delays for builders, landowners and farmers seeking permits and undermining conservation authorities’ ability to protect communities from floods and natural hazards. To

Scaring up

address these issues, the OPCA will provide centralized leadership, efficient governance, strategic direction and oversight of all conservation authorities. The agency will free-up resources for front-line conservation and ensure faster, more consistent and transparent permitting, while supporting conservation authorities in their core mandate of managing watersheds and protecting people and property from natural hazards in an efficient and consistent manner.”

River Lights Winter Festival underway, runs through Jan. 4

Continued from Page 1

It was a particularly fun event for children and the mayor had a message special for them.

“I hope you all have a safe and wonderful holiday this year. I hope all you kids get everything you want for Christmas but you have to remember to be good.”

They certainly were on their best behaviour as after they helped the mayor count down from ten to light the big tree, they moved down to the waterfront for a spectacular fireworks display that lit up the sky during a weather-perfect night.

Prue thanked those, including major sponsor Enbridge for their contribution to the evening and to the many volunteers who helped out.

“This is the best town and you people make it that way.”

Introducing the mayor and announcing all the activities that go with the River Lights Winter Festival was Amherstburg town crier Norm Ross, who is enjoying his first Christmas in the official role.

“Storyteller Seamus Gunn sharing (stories) with a yule time tale, and legend that has stood the test of time and stirs the spirit of all who here it,” proclaimed Ross.

Gunn was at the Commissariat where he told stories. The Park House Museum was also open and the wonderful Gingerbread Warming House at Toddy Jones Park was busy with visitors, described by Ross as “lovingly created by Amherstburg’s own.”

River Lights Winter Festival runs until Jan. 4 and includes hundreds of luminated displays at the Navy Yard Park and Toddy Jones Park.

Amherstburg’s Santa Claus Parade will be held Saturday. Presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation, it begins at 6 p.m. and will again start at Sandwich St. North near William St., head south on Sandwich St. and also utilize Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. where it will end at Toddy Jones Park.

Super Santa Run, Walk, Wheel sets records

Continued from Page 1

There were over 40 volunteers that assisted in putting the Saturday night race on, she stated, adding the organizers are thankful for them. Allaire added she was also pleased to see so many people come out to support the conservation authority.

“It means a lot to us,” she said.

The race is part of the holiday kickoff in Amherstburg, and Allaire said it rivals Canada Day as her favourite day of the year.

Danielle Stuebing, director of communications and outreach with the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), was happy to see so many people running, walking and wheeling in the streets of Amherstburg.

“It’s amazing,” said Stuebing. It’s our biggest Super Santa Run we’ve had to date,” said Stuebing. “It’s fantastic to see the support for the event.”

Stuebing added every dollar raised stays in the region to support local conservation efforts. She said it is a great event to have in conjunction with the Christmas tree lighting and River Lights kickoff.

River Lights kicked off last Saturday with the tree lighting and fireworks. The illuminated parkette is at left while the Provincial Marine fired a cannon (above). Photo at left and two at above right by Fred Groves, above photo submitted by the Provincial Marine.

The participants head north on Dalhousie St. as part of the 5K route.

Runners head through Navy Yard Park last Saturday evening.

Participants cross the finish line Saturday night.

Town crier Norm Ross (left) welcomes the crowd to River Lights. Fireworks explode over the Detroit River (right).

North Star High School’s academics honoured at “Night of Excellence”

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg public high school held its “Night of Excellence” last Wednesday evening in the school’s gymnasium where 242 students were honoured for making the honour roll in

the 2024-25 school year. Those students were from last year’s Grade 9, 10 and 11 classes.

Broken down, there were 77 Grade 9 students who made the honour roll for their marks in 2024-25, 68 Grade 10 students and 97 from last year’s Grade 11 class.

Stephanie Mongeau, head of the guidance department at North Star High School, said over half of the students in the school not currently enrolled in Grade 9 made the honour roll.

“That is because we’re a wolfpack,” said Mongeau. “We’re a community school where everyone is supported and everyone is helped to reach their full potential.”

Stating that academic excellence is more of an individual achievement as opposed to sports teams, clubs or group events, Mongeau added it is something that is achieved on a daily basis.

“Tonight is your night to shine,” Mongeau told the students in attendance at the “Night of Excellence” awards night.

Parents, guardians and school staff were also thanked as part of the evening’s festivities. Vice principal Jason Lynn also noted the culinary students and the tech team, calling them the “unsung heroes” of last Wednesday night.

“We’re really proud to have hands-on learning here at North Star with teachers from within the industries,” said Lynn.

Staff work tireless hours with students, Lynn added, and said he witnesses it on a daily basis.

“Public education is alive and well,” he said.

Lynn also thanked the students for their work ethic, noting that trait will be what gets them ahead in life.

“When you want something, set goals and go after it,” he told the students.

Families encouraged learning at an early age, Lynn added, and that the fruits of their labour are just being realized.

The “Leaders of the Pack” Awards, given to students with the highest average or distinction in their grade or program, went to Evelyn Garneau (Gr. 9), Aarush Malbari (Gr. 10), Lydia Mereszak (Gr. 11), Jack Schmidtgall (Jr. MAPS), Colin Forte (Sr. MAPS) and Ayaan Kureshy and Tammi Paquette (STEPS).

The best of the academic best at North Star High School were recognized last week.

Honour Roll students from North Star High School gather for a group photo as part of the school’s “Night of Excellence” last Wednesday night (above). The school’s “Leaders of the Pack,” the top average earners for those who achieved distinction in their grade or program, were also recognized. Left photo, from left: Aarush Malbari, Jack Schmidtgall, Lydia Mereszak, Tammi Paquette, Ayaan Kureshy and Evelyn Garneau. Colin Forte was absent from the photo.

Annual vendor market aids charities

By Fred Groves

Visitors to the AMA Sportsmen’s Club in Amherstburg were able to get a head start on their Christmas shopping Nov. 8.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sweet Moments Cookie Company hosted its fourth annual “Glitter and Gold” vendors market.

“We have a few different vendors this time. One makes handmade pens you can put pictures in. I would say 90 percent of the stuff here is handmade,” said event organizer Mary Lippert.

There were lots of unique Christmas gifts to purchase including a few for the four-legged family members.

Diane Peterson’s business is called Garden of Lilith – Gifts and Décor,

and that included selling cat nip, bookmarks and assorted gifts.

Asked how she came up with the name Garden of Lilith, she said, “it’s kind of witchy. I have tarot cards, and we sell cat nip pillows.”

For those who like the outdoors, Lynn McLean had some very nice bird houses up for sale and Tammy Holmes offered up interesting clocks.

One was celebrating the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team and others were made out of old records including Janis Jopin, Ozzy Osbourne and the super group, Pink Floyd.

“I like to do custom stuff and vinyl seems to be making a comeback,” commented Holmes.

According to Lippert, there were about 35 vendors this time. A raffle was held with the proceeds going to a very worth cause, the same one she has supported the three previous years.

“I love people and want to give back. All the proceeds go to Kids Curing Cancer,” she said.

Lippert says over the past three years they have been able to raise about $5,000.

Gallery goes from exhibits to holiday shop

By Ron Giofu

The work of Andrea Niven was celebrated last Sunday and not only did her exhibit close, but the exhibit season came to a close at the Gibson Gallery as well.

“Ever Becoming,” which ran from Oct. 23-Nov. 9, was the subject of a closing reception Sunday with the artist, her family and supporters gathering to hear about her work. Niven said she’s “come full circle,” recalling that as a student at General Amherst High School, their art exhibits were at the Gibson Gallery.

“I’ve always been an artist,” Niven explained. “The work probably spans over a couple of decades.”

Much of the work was in mixed media, a preferred medium for Niven due to the textures she’s able to use, though some of the work was paintings. Some were created recently though other pieces were older.

Niven stated she is originally from Amherstburg and recently moved back, after spending over 30 years living in Leamington. She was a teacher and between her career and raising a family, she hadn’t had a lot of time to pursue her art but that changed when she retired.

As part of her retirement, Niven also got a degree in visual arts from the University of Windsor.

The monarch butterfly is important to many of her pieces, with Niven saying the butterfly is to portray a positive message. The monarch is important to Niven personally as well, with a vacation planned to sanctuaries in Mexico with a friend. She hopes the vacation will inspire her to create more art.

“My intent with my work is to instill

hope and resilience in life situations,” said Niven.

Niven said she also takes a lot of photos and incorporates them into her work.

“I want to be true to myself and true to my art,” said Niven.

Community-based programs are also something Niven wants to be involved with, citing a mural project in Windsor as an example. She also has contributed to Local Collective Art Projects at The O, with works in the Halloween and Remembrance Day exhibits there.

Niven said she also wants to help others and encourage fellow artists.

“I’m back doing my art and it’s the most freeing thing,” she said.

Though it is the final exhibit of 2025, there are more events coming to the Gibson Gallery. The Holiday Art Shoppe runs Nov. 20-Dec. 14 with the gallery being open Thursday-Sunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission to the gallery is free but there is a cost to items being sold by local artists and artisans.

The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Their phone number is 519-736-2826 and the website is www.gibsonartgallery.com.

Five-year-old Kaden Gadoury got himself a new winter hat. It was part of the recent “Glitter and Gold” vendor market.

Diane Peterson was one of this year’s vendors.

Andrea Niven’s “Every Becoming” closed the exhibit season at the Gibson Gallery. Their Holiday Artisan Shoppe runs Nov. 20-Dec. 14.

Veterans honoured at Remembrance Day ceremony

By Ron Giofu

Remembrance Day was once again well attended this year, with the public taking time to pay tribute to those who served and continue to serve.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 organized and presented the parade and ceremony, with the parade leaving from the Dalhousie St. branch and heading down Murray St., Sandwich St. S., and Richmond St. before arriving at the cenotaph in King’s Navy Yard Park for the 11 a.m. service.

Names of the fallen that are on the cenotaph were read aloud, with family members allowed to lay wreaths to remember them. Family of others who served also laid wreaths with businesses also allowed to take part.

Luke van Noggeren, a constituency

assistant with the office of Essex MP Chris Lewis, read remarks from Lewis. It was a day to honour “those who gave so much,” van Noggeren stated.

The sacrifices of those who served will not be forgotten, he said on behalf of Lewis, also noting the sacrifices of families.

“We owe them a debt of gratitude,” said van Noggeren. “We will not forget.”

Armand Anderson, chief of staff for Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, noted Amherstburg is a small town in a relatively young country, but has had residents travel the world in service to their country.

Anderson, on behalf of Leardi, said the remembering of Canada’s veterans should not be just a one-day occurrence, but should happen regularly due to the

legacy they left us.

“May we always remember,” said Anderson. “May we always be grateful.”

Mayor Michael Prue said he recalled joining the Royal Canadian Legion 35 years ago and hearing concerns about children and youth remembering what soldiers went through. Pointing out there were youth and children in attendance at the parade and the ceremony, he said those fears need not have been felt.

“We will never forget,” the mayor stated.

Prue noted that town council has worked with Legion Br. 157 on several initiatives in recent years, including the crosswalk at Dalhousie St. and Murray St., the veterans banners, renaming a portion of Dalhousie St. as “Veterans Way” and putting poppies on street

signs named for veterans.

“We have so many things that we’ve tried to do,” said Prue. “We do this so people will remember.”

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 president Shawn Wilkie thanked the crowd for attending Tuesday morning’s ceremony and parade.

Wilkie said Remembrance Day is not a day of celebration, but one to commemorate veterans who fought to preserve Canada’s freedom.

Wilkie said the sacrifices the veterans made should not just be remembered once a year, but all year long. He urged people to thank veterans if they are speaking with them.

Following the service at the cenotaph, the parade marched past a reviewing stand at the Gordon House before ending in front of Legion Br. 157.

The Remembrance Day parade ended at the cenotaph in King’s Navy Yard Park, where the crowd gathered and the ceremony was held (above left). The colour guard from Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 helped lead everyone to the ceremony last Tuesday morning. The Amherstburg Legion helped co-ordinate the parade and ceremony again this year.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to senior safety.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, you understand that when you’re working hard toward a goal, the process isn’t always straightforward. You may tolerate a fair amount of challenges along the path this week.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, it may seem like others around you do not get your sense of humor. While you’re confident at telling stories, it takes others a bit of time to appreciate your funny side.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, you may be tempted to look past a recent challenge. But reflecting on that adversity and your ability to overcome it will soon pay dividends.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Keeping an open mind is one of your strong suits, Cancer. Your willingness to see all sides has benefitted your in numerous ways, and that outlook will continue to bear fruit.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Dramatic occasions and grand gestures draw your attention this week, Leo. But don’t forget to focus on some of the little things that make up most of your days.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you notice everything that goes on around you, and you’re aware of your own moods, too. That self-awareness serves you well in your relationships.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, even though you generally do not like dealing with uncertainty, this week you’re stuck operating without a lot of advanced information. Trust your instincts.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Sometimes you are hesitant to share your opinions until you feel certain that they are correct, Scorpio. But this week you may miss out if you’re being too cautious.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

You’re impressed when others carry themselves with confidence, Sagittarius. Learn from their behavior and emulate what you see. You will like the results.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Real life requires compromise, Capricorn. Lately it’s been your way or the highway, and those around you are taking notice. Don’t risk alienating them for good.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, try not to linger on others’ innocent mistakes. People make little missteps all the time. Be gracious in letting those close to you get another shot at your good graces.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, when you’ve already made up your mind about something, it can be hard to dissuade you. Do not overlook other people’s concerns. There is value in seeing things through others’ eyes.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

NOVEMBER 16 - Missi Pyle, Actress (53)

NOVEMBER 17 - RuPaul, TV Host (65)

NOVEMBER 18 - Owen Wilson, Actor (57)

NOVEMBER 19 - Allison Janney, Actress (66)

NOVEMBER 20 - Ming-Na Wen, Actress (62)

NOVEMBER 21 - Brie Bella, Media personality (42)

NOVEMBER 22 - Jamie Campbell Bower, Actor (37)

GAHS Class of 1975 reunites for 50th anniversary

Special to the RTT

More than 100 people gathered at Wildwood’s Twisted Tees Nov. 1 to rekindle friendships that began over five decades ago.

Special guests included former teachers J. Sorenson, J. Vigar, J. Matheson, D. Bailey, P. Feurth, and B. Baldwin.

Classmates traveled from far and wide, some journeying over 2,000 miles to be part of this milestone celebration. Others came from the Ottawa area, Toronto, and Stayner, all were returning just for the reunion event. Though many couldn’t join us in person, they were certainly with us in spirit.

The reunion was organized by Debbie Bennett Clayton, Nancy Beaudoin Herdman, Danese Sinasac D’Amore, Mary Sprague Brown, and Debra Chikaz White, becoming at times detectives in trying to locate their classmates. Gail Duby beautifully captured the evening with memorable photos and plenty of laughter!

The reunion not only rekindled friendships but also inspired everyone to stay connected. To those we were unable to reach, our apologies. We hope to reconnect soon.

A Facebook page called “GAHS Class of ’75 Reunion” has been created to help everyone keep in touch as we move forward together.

& Dizziness

The General Amherst High School Class of 1975 celebrated their 50th anniversary reunion earlier this month. Just some of the attendees are photographed in these submitted photos.

Admirals struggle, drop games to Essex and Mooretown

By Fred Groves

It was a tough week for the Amherstburg Admirals as they dropped a pair of Provincial Junior Hockey League (Jr. C) games.

The Admirals fell behind quickly last Tuesday night, coming up short to the West Stobbs Division leading Essex 73’s 8-4. Back at the Libro Centre Sunday evening, they were beaten 5-2 by the visiting Mooretown Flags. With the losses, the Admirals fell to 7-10-2-0 approaching the midway point of the regular season and are in seventh place in the eight-team division.

In Essex, the 73’s - who made it all the way to the Schmalz Cup finals last spring - exploded in the opening frame, taking a 5-0 lead before the Admirals’ Cory Leach and Evan MacPherson made it a little closer, 5-2 after 20 minutes.

The Admirals were able to pull within a couple of goals at one point but couldn’t get any closer. Also scoring for Amherstburg were Stefan Djordjevic and captain Drew Booker. Rory Sandison had a pair of assists while Essex’s Austin Guevremont led the way for the 73’s with a hat trick.

Sunday in Amherstburg during a 5 p.m. start, the Admirals came out strong and were up 1-0 after the first thanks to a powerplay goal by veteran centre Finnigan Russett. This goal, his second of the year, was set up on a nice rush up the ice from defenceman

Freddie McCroy.

The middle period belonged entirely to the Flags as they scored four unanswered goals including a couple 50 seconds apart.

However, unlike the previous two meetings between the two sides, Amherstburg was denied a point from overtime.

Without high-scoring forwards Brody Gillis and

Stefan Djordjevic dressed and Sandison sidelined for a few shifts in the second, the Admirals seemed to run out of gas.

Sandison did return and laid out a couple of good hits late in the second on a night when the Admirals did a fairly good job with a strong forechecking system.

McCroy got his second of the year late in the game which was set up by Russett.

The Admirals will try and get back on the winning side of the scoreboard Friday when they travel to Lakeshore to take on the Canadiens in a 7 p.m. game. In their previous meeting, the Admirals won in overtime.

Their next home games are not until the weekend of Nov. 29-30 when Dresden and Mooretown come to Amherstburg. Game times are 7:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. respectively.

Good news for the Admirals is that Brady Drouillard has returned to the lineup following an injury. Booker and Jake Goudreault are the only two players that have suited up for all 18 games thus far.

SLAPSHOTS… A roster move has seen goalie Jack Thomas released… Good turnout Saturday night at the Legion as the Admirals hosted a dinner… Amherstburg at one time led the division in penalty minutes but have cut down trips to the penalty box as of late.

Wolves’ football season ends with loss in WECSSAA Tier 2 title game

By Ron Giofu

It was a battle of the unbeaten teams in the WECSSAA Tier 2 championship football game but, unfortunately for the North Star Wolves, it was the Belle River Nobles who were still undefeated at the end.

The Nobles edged the Wolves 29-22 in Saturday night’s St. Clair College Bowl to claim the Tier 2 title. Both teams were 7-0 in the regular season.

The first touchdown of the game came with about three minutes left in the first quarter when Belle River scored on a short yardage play. With the two-point conversion, they went up 8-0. The Wolves quickly rebounded thanks to an Ashton Fevreau 55-yard touchdown run but their extra point was blocked, meaning the Nobles led 8-6 after one quarter.

The Nobles built a 15-6 lead thanks to a special teams touchdown in the second

quarter. A 39-yard field goal attempt by North Star was blocked and returned for a touchdown, which the Nobles converted. Not to be outdone, the Wolves answered back shortly thereafter on a drive capped by a seven-yard Fevreau run but their convert attempt was again blocked, leaving the score 15-12.

A one-yard touchdown run by Belle River, with the extra point, gave them a 22-12 lead and that was the halftime score.

The Nobles were threatening late in the second quarter and went for a touchdown deep in Wolves’ territory on the last play of the half, but a pass was broken up in the end zone by Noah Abreu.

Belle River scored on the opening drive of the third quarter on a 23-yard touchdown run to make it 29-12.

The Wolves didn’t quit, and would score a touchdown later in the quarter on a drive that ended with a one-yard run

by quarterback Ryan Reid. A Belle River penalty gave the Wolves a second crack at the convert attempt, so they went for two and Fevreau got it to make it 29-20.

A good North Star punt, coupled with a Nobles’ penalty, pinned Belle River deep in their own territory later in the third quarter and the drive would end when the Nobles conceded a safety.

The two teams were able to move the ball somewhat in the fourth quarter but each club had drives stall on third downs and turned the ball over as a result. There were no points in the final quarter and Belle River held on for the title.

“In the first half, we made a lot of mistakes,” said North Star head coach Joel Charron. “We didn’t play North Star football like we could have.”

Charron said Belle River was a good opponent who played well.

“Congratulations to Belle River. They

have one heck of a team,” he said. “They have great players over there.”

Charron credited Fevreau’s strong play, as Fevreau was his team’s player of the game. Steven Craner opened up several holes for Fevreau, Charron added, but he stated the entire team deserves credit for how they played all season.

“I’m really proud of this team. They have nothing to hang their heads about.”

All of the coaches were also thanked, including defensive co-ordinator Rusty Parsons, as the Wolves had six straight shutouts to start the season.

A chunk of the team’s core is graduating, as 13 players will not return next season. Charron added there are good players coming up, including Cole Young, Grayson Wilson and Brayden Halliday to name a few.

“The future is bright at North Star,” he said.

Mooretown goalie John Chartrand loses his stick in front of Amherstburg’s Evan Klein during Sunday evening’s game at the Libro Centre. Mooretown won 5-2.

North Star’s Ashton Fevreau looks for running room (left) in Saturday night’s WECSSAA Tier 2 championship game at St. Clair College while Ryan Reid does the same (right).

Local Business Directory

Community Calendar

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

WINDSOR MODEL RAILWAY OPEN HOUSE;

Open house will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Market Square building, second floor, located at the corner of Ottawa St. and Walker Road in Windsor. For info, visit www.windsormodelrailroadclub.com.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11

FILM SCREENING; There will be a screening of “Radio Renaissance: Amherstburg’s New Wave” at the Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road. Film is directed by Gavin Michael Booth and features team at 107.9 FM The Burg. Tickets $12, available at tickettrailor.com/events/ amherstburgbroadcastingmediaproduction/ 1942241 Proceeds go to The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission and The House Youth Centre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., screening at 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14

COMMUNITY DINNER; The second annual “Christmas in the Burg” community turkey dinner returns to Encounter Church, 125 Alma St., with seatings 4-5:30 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m. Free to attend, must register at www.encounteraburg.ca. Live Christmas music to be performed by 2Fish.

ONGOING

WINTER HAT & GLOVE DRIVE; Presented by The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment. Winter hats and gloves can be dropped off in Amherstburg at the Amherstburg Detachment, the Libro Centre, Movati Athletic, CIBC, Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 and the Beer Store. Anyone needing special arrangements for pickup, contact Const. Nick Dupuis on social media. Runs through Nov. 30. Items will be delivered to local families, schools and organizations like Amherstburg Community Services and the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission.

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 building

maintenance. Help also required to organize special events and fundraisers. For info, e-mail Jill at aburgmission@yahoo.com.

DIVORCECARE; A 13-week support group for those going through a divorce or separation will begin Tuesday, October 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Lighthouse Church, 266 King St., Amherstburg. To register please call Rose at 519-819-5936.

DONATIONS TO PENSIONER’S COTTAGE; Park House Museum raising funds to restore historic Pensioner’s Cottage. For info, call 519-736-2511 or e-mail parkhousemuseum@gmail.com. Donations to can also be made at www.parkhousemuseum.com/ donate or www.gofundme.com/f/restore-ourhistoric-pensioners-cottage.

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

GIBSON GALLERY EVENTS; Holiday Artisan Shoppe runs Nov. 20-Dec. 14 featuring work of local vendors on sale. Event is a “mini-Art by the River” at the gallery. Gibson Gallery is at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Fall hours 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday. For info, call 519-736-2826 or visit www.gibsonartgallery.com.

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

QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild invites guests/new members to attend monthly meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s Hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North Woodslee at 7 p.m. Our purpose is to promote and encourage the art of quilting in Essex County. 519-726-5869.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD EVENTS; Charity bingo Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Wednesday to order call 519-734-8575. Dinner from 4:30-6 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road. Hall space available for rent for showers, weddings, birthdays, stags and more. For info, call 519-734-8575.

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

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

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH SERVICES; Unitarian Universalist Church, 2953 Olinda Side Road in Ruthven. Rev. Paul LangstonDaley will speak on “What’s the Buzz?” Services start at 10:30 a.m. For info, call 548-324-4352. All are welcome.

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

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

GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10

a year to join. Over 160 members have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong, bridge and line dancing. Club crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three luncheons and a Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www.goldenagecentre. ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” to help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-9967364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

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

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

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit www. amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & more. Please call to see how we can help! Food bank runs Tuesday, Thursday, Friday with curbside pickup available.

FOR RENT

CLASSIFIEDS

RENOVATIONS

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT

for Rent in Amherstburg, includes utilities $1,830.

Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex on Queen Street in quiet neighbourhood. One block from the Detroit River within a short walking distance to town. Carpet and ceramic tile throughout. Modern open-concept kitchen with island for working or eating. Fridge, stove, and dishwasher included. Private laundry-room with washer and dryer included. Windows in every room with mini blinds included, providing lots of natural daylight. Central forcedair conditioning and highefficiency gas furnace. No smoking. No dogs. Private access to your own patio within shared rear-yard. $1,830 monthly, includes: central forced-air heating and cooling, natural gas, electricity, water, and sewer. Minimum 1-year lease. Apply with income verification. First and last month’s rent required. By appointment only, call 519736-4473 between 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a detailed message.

Please Recycle

& 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.

POWER WASHING & PEST CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Making your home look new again. 519-7362448.

“ARE YOU SAVED?”

November 16th

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

ITEMS FOR SALE

Queen Heated Mattress Pad (New) - $45. Couch & Loveseat - Black and Taupe Strips (Like New) - $600. Black & Taupe Paisley Couch(Like New)$300. Rectangular Coffee Table + 2 End Tables$125. Call 519-736-2742

WANTED

TO BUY

LOOKING FOR 2008 AUDI

TT roadster ocean blue. 3.2 L in Amherstburg that was for sale a month ago. Contact Mike at (519) 8900920

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.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

LOCAL 2098 DIAGEO

retirees Christmas party Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., Amherstburg. Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025 at 12:30. Please bring a nonperishable food item.

EVENT SPACE FOR RENT

HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-736-6096 or Doris @ 519-734-8154.

Sold-out crowd at fundraiser for Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc.

Charity continues to fundraise to assist children’s shelters in the D.R. Congo

By Ron Giofu

Father Donato Lwiyando may have passed away, but his work carries on.

Father Donato, a former associate pastor at St. John the Baptist Church in Amherstburg, operated three shelters in his home country of D.R. Congo and even though he died of cancer June 6 at the age of 61, the charity in Amherstburg that assists the shelters is continuing.

The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. held a fundraising dinner Sunday night at the Coachwood Golf and Country Club in McGregor and saw a sold out crowd of 180 people attend.

The amount raised was not known as of press time, but the money will go to help the children and youth that are housed at the three shelters in the D.R. Congo.

Mary Beneteau, who kept in regular contact with Father Donato and is the secretary of the charity’s board of directors, thanked the large crowd Sunday night.

“Can you believe we sold out more than a week ago?” she said. “We are so grateful to you.”

Father Donato had not been well for some time and his death was something that had a negative impact.

“When he died, the children and youth were just devastated,” she said.

Beneteau said those now caring for the shelters encouraged the children and youth to write letters to people in Canada about Father Donato, his impact or what the shelters mean to them. Many of them were on tables at the fundraiser.

“The letters were perfect,” said Beneteau. “I use the letters we get for updates to our sponsors.”

Some of the boys and girls in the shelters were worried about whether they would still get helped, and Beneteau said the charity will still assist them as much as possible.

“We really want to continue to help them,” said Beneteau. “They are our children. We cringe over not being there for them.”

While the large yard sale at the Beneteau home

will no longer continue due to the fact the Beneteaus are getting older as are the volunteers, Beneteau said they may still hold a smaller yard sale and are still seeking sponsorships and donations to make up the decline in revenue.

“The donations and sponsorships keep us going,” she said.

Photos were shown of the children and youth once they arrived at the shelter and what they look like now. Positive changes have occurred thanks to the love and protection they receive.

“It is gratifying to be able to make such a change in their lives,” said Beneteau.

To sponsor a youth, it is $25 per month or $300 per year.

“As Father often said, ‘may God bless you according to your needs’,” she added.

Charity president Larry Allen said there is conflict in the D.R. Congo, particularly in the eastern part of the African nation, as rebel armies are entering the country. The rich minerals the country has is at the centre of much of the conflicts.

Children and youth have had to endure violence before they came to the shelters, with the students having to commit to going to school or learning a trade to stay at the shelter. Allen pointed out their education has to be paid for.

Allen added the charity still sells items online to generate funds and are always looking for sponsors or donors. They also fundraise where they can.

“Money-wise, we’re kind of struggling because we don’t have the $20,000-plus from the yard sale,” Allen said.

The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. is also looking for new volunteer board members, as they want to ensure the work continues if current board members wish to retire.

“We want to make sure this is going to carry on,” said Allen, adding it is a non-denominational charity.

For further information on The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. and the shelters they support, please visit www.hopeislife.ca.

Mary Beneteau, secretary of the Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. board, holds Aulia Donato, the great-niece of the late Father Donato Lwiyando. The charity held a fundraising dinner Sunday night in McGregor for the shelters in the D.R. Congo that Father Donato founded and operated for many years.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Gingerbread

Warming House

Toddy Jones Park

5:30pm-8:30pm

Last Day to Call White Goods Pickup 519-736-3664

Last day for budget survey is Nov 30th talktheburg.ca

purpose of this

is to consider a proposed update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan in conformity with s.26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P. 13, as amended

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, December 11th 2025. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

ANY PERSON who wishes watch the meeting proceedings only, please visit http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING #2 TO CONSIDER AN UPDATE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG OFFICIAL PLAN

STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, December 15th, 2025 commencing at 4:30 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan in conformity with s.26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P. 13, as amended

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS UPDATE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG OFFICIAL PLAN:

This update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan applies to all lands within the Town of Amherstburg

The updated Official Plan, if approved will come into effect as a new official plan that is in conformity with s. 26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.P.13, as amended.

The updated Official Plan has been prepared based on policy analysis, the preparation of a Town Urban Structure Plan, a Town Land Needs Assessment, background information from the new County of Essex Official Plan, and legislated policy changes to the Planning Act, consideration of comments received at the Public Open Houses held prior to this Statutory Public Meeting, Statutory Public Meeting #1, the Official Plan Survey and written submissions made to the Town

2025 commencing at 4:30 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan in conformity with s.26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. P. 13, as amended

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, December 11th, 2025. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

ANY PERSON who wishes watch the meeting proceedings only, please visit http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS UPDATE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG OFFICIAL PLAN:

NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING #2

TO CONSIDER AN UPDATE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG OFFICIAL PLAN

This update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan applies to all lands within the Town of Amherstburg

STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:

The updated Official Plan, if approved will come into effect as a new official plan that is in conformity with s. 26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.P.13, as amended.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON who wishes watch the meeting proceedings only, please visit http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan by email to the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by Thursday December 11th, 2025 and any comments received after the Agenda for the meeting is finalized will be read aloud prior to the updated Official Plan being heard by Council.

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS UPDATE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG OFFICIAL PLAN:

This update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan applies to all lands within the Town of Amherstburg

If you wish to be notified of the d ecision of Council on the proposed updated Official Plan you must make a written request to the Clerk’s Office at 271 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, ON, N9V 2A5.

The updated Official Plan, if approved will come into effect as a new official plan that is in conformity with s. 26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.P.13, as amended.

NO PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY shall be added as a party to the hearing of the appeal unless, before the bylaw was passed, the person or public body made oral submissions at a public meeting or written submissions to the Council or, in the opinion of the Ontario Land Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to add the person or public body as a party.

IF A PERSON OR PUBLIC BODY does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Town of Amherstburg before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Land Tribunal unless, in the opinion of the Tribunal, there are reasonable grounds to do so.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of

ANY PERSON who wishes watch the meeting proceedings only, please visit http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html

If you wish to be notified of the d ecision of Council on the proposed updated Official Plan you must make a written request to the Clerk’s Office at 271 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, ON, N9V 2A5.

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS UPDATE TO THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG OFFICIAL PLAN:

This update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan applies to all lands within the Town of Amherstburg

The updated Official Plan, if approved will come into effect as a new official plan that is in conformity with s. 26 of the Planning Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.P.13, as amended.

Further information relating to the proposed update to the Town of Amherstburg Official Plan is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed amendments are also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca and www.talktheburg.ca/officialplan If you wish to be notified of the

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

of Amherstburg, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca

For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/calendar. To subscribe to Council & Committee Agendas, visit Amherstburg.ca/calendar and click SUBSCRIBE.

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 12th day of November, 2025

If you wish to be notified of the d ecision of Council on the proposed updated Official Plan you must make a written request to the Clerk’s Office at 271 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, ON, N9V 2A5.

Christopher Aspila Manager, Planning Services

Town of Amherstburg Libro Centre

3295 Meloche Road

Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8

Telephone: (519) 736-5408

Fax No. (519) 736-9859

Website: www.amherstburg.ca