Halloween displays turned into fundraisers
By Ron Giofu
With Halloween fast approaching, decorations are going up at homes in Amherstburg and surrounding areas.
Some of those displays carry a charitable twist to them.
At least three local homes are decked out for Halloween with those coming to view the displays encouraged to bring canned goods, non-perishable food items or cash donations for the Amherstburg
Food and Fellowship Mission. Another is accepting donations for Wings Rehabilitation Centre.
After a two-year absence, Ken Grant and his wife Karri-Lynn have set up their display in front of their home at 440 McLellan Ave. This year’s theme is “Slicer’s Roadkill Grill & Ice Cream Parlour” with moving parts, a photo booth, a detailed diner setting and, of course, the ever-popular vomiting zombie.
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Family heading to Uganda to further support charity
By Ron Giofu
An Amherstburg woman is heading back to Uganda to assist a charity she is involved with, and this time she’s being joined by her son and his fiancée.
Ingrid Silvaggio-Heugh, a volunteer with the charity Save African Child Uganda (SACU) said she is excited to meet up with her son James and his fiancée Isabelle in Uganda. She said he recently proposed to her after hiking on top of the Dolomites Mountains in northern Italy.
“We will be in Uganda for four weeks between mid-October to the middle of November,” said Silvaggio-Heugh. “They will be in Egypt before meeting up with me in Uganda, for their first time. James and Isabelle now have their mandatory Yellow Fever vaccination and will be taking their malaria pills. Since I had my vaccinations in 2015, I’m good to go but will also be taking my malaria prescription.”
Silvaggio stated she can’t wait to show them the work that has been accomplished over the years by SACU. They have supported children and families through building of schools to helping feed children.
“I’m so blessed to be able to take my fourth trip to Uganda. So much has changed since 2019 when I took my third trip with three other committee members (Cheryl Rutgers, Rick & Kathy Vriesen),” said Silvaggio-Heugh. “A couple of years before our visit, committee members Elaine Johnson and Betty Westfall had spent some time in the remote village. Six years ago, the high school next to SACU Elementary was just beginning to be built and now I get to see the completion of Quality High School.”
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The Grant home at 440 McLellan Ave. (above) features Slicer’s Roadkill Grill during weekends in October while The Shrine on Durango is available for viewing at the Anderson home at 17 Durango (left). Both are accepting donations for the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.
Stella Maris gives back in a big way to Society of St. Vincent de Paul
By Ron Giofu
Those supported with food items through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) got some help thanks to a local elementary school.
Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School held a food drive and when it was all said and done, the school collected approximately 1,500 canned goods and other non-perishable food items.
The food drive went from Sept. 29-Oct. 8 with volunteers from the St. John the
Baptist chapter of the SSVP picking up the food last Thursday afternoon.
Grade 6 students taught by Candace Zimmerman helped carry the food items out to the vehicles, with Zimmerman noting the school held the can drive for no other reason than to assist the community and teach the students about giving back.
“There was no reward (for the students) or anything,” said Zimmerman. “We wanted to help others from the goodness of our hearts. They brought in tons of stuff.”
Vice principal Franca Rezler added it was a way to give thanks and “show our gratitude for what we have.”
“We’re celebrating gratitude for the month of October,” said Zimmerman.
“We want to be able to help others.”
SSVP volunteer Janice Ferguson said they were pleased with the donation from Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School. She said they get calls regularly from individuals and families looking for assistance with food.
“We have about 50 calls per month,” she said.
“We’ve never seen this many deliveries and this much need,” added her husband Brian.
Families can range from two children all the way up to six.
Schools are given a list of what groceries SSVP needs and the schools do the rest, he said.
“We are very appreciative of the schools who donate,” he said.
Janice added SSVP works with various schools throughout the year, with École St.-Jean Baptiste up next during the Christmas holidays.
“Amherstburg Fights Cancer” fundraiser for the WCCF coming Nov. 1
By Ron Giofu
Thanks to a local cancer survivor, the rest of the town gets to take a step forward in the fight against cancer.
Norm Mickle is leading efforts to organize “Amherstburg Fights Cancer,” a dinner fundraiser scheduled for Nov. 1 at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association. Mickle was diagnosed with lung cancer nearly one year ago, but after having a portion of his lung removed, he is now cancer free. He was approached by the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation about being an ambassador to the 2025 “Grow On” campaign and he accepted.
“I asked where the funds go and they said all funds raised stay in Windsor,” said Mickle. “It goes to the Windsor Cancer Centre and
upgrades to their radiation suites.” That project is estimated to cost approximately $400,000.
After agreeing to be an ambassador, Mickle decided he wanted to do something locally to help the cause. That’s when the idea for the fundraiser started. He quickly gained support as “people have come out of the woodwork” to assist.
“Sponsors have all stepped up to get this off the ground,” he said.
There are at least 24 raffle prize sponsors, Mickle noted. Title sponsors are The Reliable Realtors Team (John D’Alimonte & Kim Wheeler) from Remax Realty, Norbuilt Construction, Carol’s Unisex Hair Design and Musicland.
Dinner will be pasta with entertainment being Tom Hogarth & Friends as
MULBERRY COURT AMHERSTBURG
well as Bethany D’Alimonte.
“We hope to raise $5,000-$6,000 for the Grow On Windsor campaign,” said Mickle.
Mickle is no stranger to giving back to the community as he and wife Janet presented the Secret Santa Dinner at Mealtime Express for many years. He said people are fortunate to have cancer treating clinics like the Windsor Cancer Centre so close by, and that early detection makes a difference.
“We’re creating a state-of-the-art cancer treatment facility in Windsor,” said Mickle. “I’m happy to be part of it.”
Tickets for “Amherstburg Fights Cancer” are available at Musicland, the Remax office, Carol’s Unisex Hair Design, Mealtime Express or by calling Mickle directly at 519-816-7189. The cost is $30 each. The AMA Sportsmen’s Association is located at 468 Lowes Side Road.
Candace Zimmerman's Grade 6 class at Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School helped volunteers with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) load non-perishable food items (left) while a group of classmates celebrate a job well done (above). The school collected approximately 1,500 cans and non-perishable food items for SSVP.
Mission serves 128 Thanksgiving meals with help from sponsor
By Ron Giofu
The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission served its annual Thanksgiving dinner this year thanks to a major sponsor.
ABC Technologies stepped up this year and sponsored the Thanksgiving meal, which was served last Monday at noon. In all, 128 meals were served.
“Because of their donation, we are able to continue our tradition of serving over 100 meals to community members who may otherwise go without,” said mission volunteer and board member Jill Kanwischer. “This year’s menu will be especially memorable thanks to the groceries they helped us secure.”
Kanwischer said the menu that ABC Technologies was able to help the mission secure included six 20-plus pound turkeys, six large hams, 50 pounds of carrots, 100 pounds of potatoes, five boxes of beef broth, one case of baked beans, seven large apple pies and seven large pumpkin pies.
“Their support makes it possible for us to share not only a hot meal but also the spirit of care and belonging that defines this special holiday,” said Kanwischer. “We are deeply thankful for their partnership and commitment to our community. They are an amazing sponsor for us!”
Mission president Tim McAllister said there were a lot of people who came out to volunteer to cook, serve the meal and clean up afterward.
“It’s exciting,” said McAllister. “We
got it done. A lot of people showed up to make my job easy.”
McAllister joked that “I’m not tired” thanks to all the support the mission received.
“People stepped up and got it done. Everyone did something,” he said. “I’m thankful for that.”
The mission expected a big crowd Monday afternoon for Thanksgiving and people wanted to be treated to a good meal. They had numerous take-out meals as well, including 40 to a local residential housing support location.
“We are truly grateful to ABC Technologies for sponsoring this special event and helping us provide a warm meal and fellowship to those in need,” said McAllister.
The volunteer-run mission puts a lot of effort into making food not only on holidays, but every day they are open, McAllister stated. It is a way to “bless the people,” he added.
“Everyone is coming to enjoy themselves,” McAllister added Monday afternoon.
The mission needs more volunteers to help them operate, with cleaners, dishwashers, maintenance people and event organizers required. For details, contact Kanwischer at aburgmission@yahoo. com or call the mission at 298 Victoria St. S.
Hot meals are served Monday-Friday at 12 noon.
The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is located at 298 Victoria St. S.
A Quilt of Valor was recently presented to Peter Szabo, a 99-year-old World War II RCN veteran. He is a resident of Richmond Terrace in Amherstburg. Pauline Gaudette presented the Quilt of Valor to Szabo Sept. 23. Pictured are Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Branch 157 service officer Allan Carroll, Szabo, and Szabo’s son-in-law Brian McCarthy.
Volunteers with the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission help serve Thanksgiving meals Monday afternoon. ABC Technologies helped with the purchase of numerous food items.
Gibson Gallery thanks its Art by the River volunteers
By Ron Giofu
With the 58th annual Art by the River in the rearview mirror, organizers took time to thank those who helped the event run smoothly.
A volunteer celebration event was held at the Gibson Gallery, the organization that presents and is supported by Art by the River. Stephanie Thomson, who co-ordinated volunteers for the Aug. 23-24 show, thanked the over 50 volunteers that assisted the show this year. She said “it isn’t just a thank you,” as she told the volunteers who were able to attend last week that they are part of an organization that is largely volunteer-run.
“You are a huge part of our organization’s success,” Thomson told the group.
Of the 54 volunteers that helped at Art by the River in 2025, 24 have already committed to 2026, she added.
Dave Cozens, the president of the Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts, also offered his thanks to the volunteers. The guild is the organization that operates the gallery.
“Without your support, Art by the River would not be possible,” Cozens told the volunteers. “Many of you were on our front lines, welcoming our patrons and collecting payments.”
The attendance at Art by the River this year was just under 10,000, he said, and pointed out the shuttle
Volunteers that assisted with Art by the River were thanked at a recent reception held at the Gibson Gallery in Amherstburg. Over 50 volunteers helped with the Aug. 23-24 show that was held at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada.
service was a new feature. That was sponsored by Amherstburg Buick GMC with Thomson and Cozens both stating that it received “rave reviews” by those who used it.
Four volunteer drivers assisted with the shuttle service this year.
Other premier corporate sponsors included RBC, BMO Wealth Management, Joe Meloche Ford and TD Bank.
“Our board is very proud that, due to the success of Art by the River, the dedication of our volunteers and members, and the support of our corporate and
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
private sponsors, we are able to maintain and operate the Gibson Gallery without financial assistance from the Town of Amherstburg,” said Cozens.
Cozens pointed out next year will be the 130th anniversary of their building with events in the planning stage. He said the guild was founded in 1945 “to encourage and foster cultural development in the fine and applied arts” and originally met at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada, “hence the name.”
Approximately 55 years ago, Florence Gibson purchased the Michigan Central Railroad Station and donated it to the guild, with the building renamed in her honour. The building itself was built in 1896 “and its Romanesque architecture is ideal for an art gallery. The building itself is a piece of art,” Cozens said.
The Gibson Gallery is managed by a board of directors with annual memberships to the gallery being $25 per person or $30 per family.
In addition to regular exhibits in the spring, summer and fall, there is an artisan gift shop, guilds that meet regularly there and a variety of adult and children’s classes.
The 125-year-old caboose at the rear of the museum is being converted from a railway museum into a new exhibit that will be known as “Transportation in Amherstburg.” That will open in October 2026.
For more information on the Gibson Gallery, call 519-736-2826 or visit www.gibsonartgallery.com.
Area resident urges action regarding housing and homelessness crisis
I’ve seen how the housing crisis has deeply affected our community.
More and more people are being pushed into homelessness, and it feels like everyone is falling behind.
We have to turn things around, and we have an opportunity in front of us with the upcoming federal budget on November 4.
The only way to unlock Canada’s full economic potential is if our governments take leadership to end homelessness and solve the housing
crisis once and for all.
Recently the federal government announced Build Canada Homes, including a $1 billion investment in supportive and transitional housing.
This is an important first step, but the scale of our housing and homelessness crisis demands a more robust response.
We need a system that works for everyone, especially in the wake of Trump’s trade war and the uncertainty that so many are facing.
Bold action and even bolder commitments and investments can shape a future where everyone has a safe and affordable place to call home.
I know that’s possible, but people in our community have to come together and show our federal representatives that this budget is our chance to create lasting change and put an end to the housing and homelessness crisis.
I’m encouraging readers to join me. Raise your voice for a bold 2025 Federal Budget that prioritizes action
on homelessness and housing. We can’t wait any longer.
You can go to https://action.caeh. ca/budget_25 to learn more and take action.
(Editor’s Note: This is one of roughly a dozen letters that came in on the same topic. As they were largely the same, we are running just one of them.)
Reader points out history of Indigenous Peoples in this area
There is a rumour in town about providing the newer area of the King’s Navy Yard Park (former Duffy’s property) with an Indigenous name, in which case it must be remembered that the area was Huron/Wendat territory of the Wyandot Nation of Anderdon, whose presence was shown by the Wyandot cemetery at Front Road North and County
Road 10, the Assumption Parish (1740) originally known as “Mission of Our Lady of the Assumption among the Hurons,” the Huron Church Road next to Assumption Church, the Huron Reserve lands north of Alma Street to LaSalle (River Canard), the Treaty 35 (Aug.13, 1833) by which the Hurons ceded those lands to the Crown, and maps
in the 1700s showing the area to be Huron/Wendat (available at the Marsh Historical Collection, 519-736-9191).
Pre-dating the Indigenous nations but mentioned by them were the Mound Builders, a mysterious, ancient race that built mounds for ceremonial and burial purposes dating from 3000 BC or earlier. Their strong presence was felt
from the Ohio and Mississippi Valleys to the Gulf of Mexico. Their Cahokia Mounds are the best known.
Local mounds have disappeared due to development but some are still found in the Detroit area.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY
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—Terry Hall Amherstburg
—Rob McLean Harrow
CUPW shifts to rotating strikes, mail to start moving again
By Ron Giofu
Mail is moving again as strike action by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) have shifted from a full strike to rotating strikes.
CUPW national president Jan Simpson announced last Thursday (Oct. 9) that the union moved from nationwide strike action to rotating strikes. That took effect last Saturday, with Simpson adding local unions that will rotate on strike will be informed closer to the time of when they are planned to go out.
“This will start mail and parcels moving, while continuing our struggle for good collective agreements and a strong public postal service. We did not take the decision to move to a nation-wide strike lightly. Postal workers would much rather have new collective agreements and be delivering mail instead of taking strike action,” Simpson said. “Yet, we could not stand by as the government announced its plans to allow Canada Post to gut our postal service and slash thousands of our jobs. Contract after contract, this employer has sought to chip away at postal services, worker rights and good jobs, and its latest offers are an outright attack on public service. The Government’s announcement Sept. 25 also emboldened Canada Post to continue making a mockery of the bargaining process.”
Simpson said they thank its members “for standing strong, the public for their support, as well as the New Democratic Party and Bloc Québécois for holding this government accountable.” There is also a followup meeting with federal Minister of Government
Transformation, Public Works and Procurement Joel Lightbound this week.
“We will continue our fight for strong public services, good jobs, and a sustainable public post office for all Canadians,” she added in a statement posted to CUPW’s website.
In a statement, Canada Post said it will welcome back employees represented by CUPW and that “plans are now under way to ensure a safe and orderly restart of our national operations, which were shut down without warning on Sept. 25 following the union’s sudden national strike.”
The corporation noted that postal services have resumed this week, “uncertainty and instability in the postal service will continue with the union’s decision to conduct rotating strikes.”
“Shutting down and restarting parts of our integrated national network with rotating strikes has always challenged our ability to provide reliable service to customers. As a result, all service guarantees will be suspended,” Canada Post’s statement read. “In the last year, Canadians and Canadian businesses have been subject to more than 170 days of strike activity by CUPW including two national strikes. The only pause in strike activity occurred during the Industrial Inquiry Commission process, which was ordered by the Government.”
Canada Post added: “This prolonged period of instability, uncertainty and disruption has significantly impacted Canadians and Canadian businesses, often without warning. As a result, they have moved to other carriers or are avoiding Canada Post altogether. The move to a different form of strike activity will not change that.”
According to Canada Post, “the impact on the company’s already dire financial position is significant and mounting. With continued uncertainty and the expiry of collective agreements, Canada Post will be required to adjust operations to its current business realities moving forward.”
The company added it is waiting to hear back from the union on its Oct. 3 offers.
“These offers put forward proposals that are affordable and treat employees fairly given the challenges we face,” the company stated. “The need to align the business to the current needs of the country, to reduce the dependency on taxpayer dollars, grows more urgent each day this strike continues.”
“Heritage Economy” suggested for Amherstburg
By Ron Giofu
The Amherstburg heritage committee received an update on a recent conference, with a topic of a “heritage economy” being an idea that could be developed in the future.
Committee chair Simon Chamely gave committee members a synopsis of the Ontario Heritage Conference in Prince Edward County held in June. He outlined what is happening in that area with regards to heritage and the events at the conference itself.
Chamely noted an address by historian Peter Lockyer, on the subject of a “heritage economy,” something Chamely wants to see more of in Amherstburg.
“He has created a heritage economy and that’s what he’s trying to do,” Chamely said of Lockyer. “I think it’s something we can easily adopt in Amherstburg. What he’s saying is when you have a core heritage group, if we come up with heritage partners similar to what Niagara Falls had done where they give you a Niagara tax on your food, your wine, that kind of thing.”
Chamely suggested adding a small amount of money, “and I’m talking a few dollars, onto the restaurants and wineries in the area and start creating a small purse to promote heritage,” it could launch the initiative. He said the presentation at the
conference showed 90 per cent of heritage promotion is done on a volunteer basis and most volunteers are 60 years of age and over.
“If you create kind of a heritage economy, then you can start hiring students to do tours and give information and create some kind of partnership. Once you have the heritage working group core, then you can get the heritage partners where you can start getting the money,” he said.
The ideas from the convention also included the sale of heritage-related products that can be sold to create additional revenue for tours and other initiatives. The program could grow from there and help educate more people, he said.
“What we’re selling in Amherstburg is history and history is a multi-billion dollar industry. If we can capitalize on that, we can save our properties and the more we save and the more information we can give out, the more people we can attract,” he said.
Chamely said he found Lockyer’s concepts interesting and encouraged committee members to read up on materials he brought back.
“It was incredible the way he talked about heritage and we’re on the way,” said Chamely. “We’re halfway there. We just have to create some kind of revenue. If we can hire more students and bring more awareness, I think we can do something with that.”
Continued on Page 13
Canada Post workers, represented by the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), are seen on strike outside the Amherstburg post office in late September. The strike has shifted to rotating work stoppages from a full strike.
Fire department holds Fire Prevention Week open house
By Ron Giofu
Fire Prevention Week was observed last week with the Amherstburg Fire Department holding several events.
Members of the department went to local schools on the subject of fire safety but the main attraction was the open house last Wednesday evening at the Libro Centre. Fire trucks were on hand for young and old to look at, with children getting a chance to spray a hose and ride in a fire truck also available.
Families also enjoyed a barbecue and received fire safety materials from members of the department.
“This is the culmination of what we do for Fire Prevention Week,” said fire chief Michael Mio. “We get people out to learn about what our firefighters do and to interact withour staff.”
Mio stated this year’s focus is on Lithium-ion battery safety. Mio said they have had a few calls due to issues with Lithium-ion batteries in Amherstburg, so they want to ensure the community stays safe.
“Lithium-ion technology is generally very safe as long as we follow the manufacturer’s standards and
use the products as intended,” said Mio. “That includes using the proper chargers, charging in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, and keeping cords and devices in good condition.”
Mio added issues often arise when batteries are improperly charged or physically damaged.
“A damaged or overcharged battery can overheat and potentially ignite nearby materials,” he said.
To reduce the risk, Mio urged people to always use the correct charger; inspect cords for frays or breaks; and avoid using devices that have been dropped, submerged, or otherwise damaged. He added if a device feels hot to the touch, unplug it and move it to a safe place away from combustibles, preferably outside.
According to information from the Ontario Fire Marshal (OFM), a phone experiencing battery thermal runaway will first feel extremely hot, then may swell or bulge. Next, it could emit smoke and gases, and if the reaction continues, flames may erupt, causing ignition or even explosion.
“Lithium-ion batteries are not like regular batteries,” said Ontario Fire Marshal Jon Pegg, in material sent to the RTT from Mio. “When they fail, they can unleash
a chain reaction that results in an intense fire that can spread in seconds, release toxic smoke, and make escape incredibly difficult.”
The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office reports the number of lithium-ion battery-related fires is rising sharply across the province with the increasing number of household devices, such as phones, laptops, power tools, e-bikes and scooters, powered by them. The OFM says these fires often begin with overheating. If the battery is damaged, tampered with, or charged improperly, this overheating can spiral into thermal runaway -- a self-sustaining reaction in which heat is generated faster than it can dissipate, resulting in fire and, in some cases, explosion. These fires burn hotter and faster than other types of fires and produce thick, toxic smoke.
“Lithium-ion battery fires present a new, significant challenge to the fire service,” continued Fire Marshal Pegg. “But like many other types of fires, they can be prevented by following simple safety tips.”
Fire Prevention Week not only included the school visits and open house, but Stella Maris School students went to the Safety Village, hosted by Amherstburg Fire.
Deputy Fire Chief Dan Monk added anyone or any organization who would like fire safety lessons or materials can contact the Amherstburg Fire Department.
“It’s a free service to the community,” said Monk.
Fire Prevention Officer Mario Fiorito underscored this year’s focus on Lithium-ion battery safety. He added the open house was a good way for the public to get an up close and personal look at the department’s trucks and equipment.
“It’s taxpayers’ money that pays for it,” said Fiorito. Fiorito said he also conducts home inspections throughout the year and also at businesses and restaurants.
Mio added they are making other changes within the department, including the implementation of the “north-south” model of responding to calls. While firefighters are still assigned to all three fire stations in town, they are now on the new model to prepare themselves for when the new station opens next year.
Firefighter Matt Meloche and Lt. Myles Robinson helps show young Levi Meloche how to spray a fire hose (left). Layla Blais gets her turn behind the wheel of a fire truck (right). The Amherstburg Fire Department held an open house last Wednesday night at the Libro Centre.
Halloween displays raising goods for Amherstburg mission, Wings Rehab
Continued from Page 1
The theme was supposed to be used in 2023, but got delayed due to work and personal circumstances.
“I missed two years because of work and renovations in the house,” he said, also noting their son also was married around this time two years ago. “The last two years, there was no time to do this.”
Grant said he’s glad to bring the materials out of storage at their home and set it up. There were also supplies picked up at yard sales, auctions and even things picked up off the curb that were disposed of by other people.
“The kids missed it,” he said. “They’re glad we’re back.”
Between staying busy at work and other commitments, Grant said it took him over a month to set it up. An hour here and an hour-and-a-half there, and it was finally set up.
“It’s all worth it,” he said. “I enjoy it.”
While pleased with how it turned out, he admitted there were some other elements he would have liked to have added.
“I’m happy with it,” he said. “I like detail.”
Residents of British Columbia got a chance to see the display as they were in Amherstburg to visit family, he added.
Neighbours Heather and Derek Shank have re-established their “CarnEvil” display in front of their home at 437 McLellan Ave. Like the Grants, the Shanks are also welcoming food and cash donations to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.
For 2026, tentative plans for the Grant family exhibit is to have an amusement park theme.
Hours the Grants have their display running are Thursday dusk-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday dusk-10 p.m. and Sunday dusk-9 p.m.
Down the road at 469 McLellan, at the corner of Pettypiece Dr., Stan Lewton has decorated his garage with a Halloween theme complete with 12 speakers, videos and plenty of haunted decor to go around. It is a display that has taken upwards of 14 years to compile, with Lewton stating he has built it up over the years.
Setting it up took approximately three weeks, so some items stay up all year.
“I love it,” said Lewton. “It’s such a joy.”
Like his neighbours, there is a charitable twist to his Halloween display but unlike his neighbours, it’s a cause different than the mission. Lewton said donations are being collected for Wings Rehabilitation Centre.
“It’s a good cause,” said Lewton. “I have three cats. I’m an animal lover.”
Joking that his wife Jennifer is very patient, Lewton added they enjoy the display. Some items are purchased at Home Depot and Spirit Halloween, with other items purchased at area dollar stores and repurposed for Halloween purposes. He said audio is a particular focus with the speakers around the garage and front of the property.
“I think my audio sets me apart,” said Lewton.
His children also help paint and set up the displays.
“We just love it. It’s so much fun.”
The public also loves it, Lewton added, and people can view it this Friday through Sunday from 6-10 p.m. each night.
“The people love it. That’s number one,” he said. “It’s a passion, that’s for sure. I’m still blown away by it. It’s a great time. I love the fact people love it.”
“The Shrine on Durango” is also back this year. Located at 17 Durango Ave. in the small subdivision off of St. Therese Dr. in Malden Centre, the Anderson family is also encouraging people who stop by to drop off food and/or monetary donations to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.
Ken Anderson, along with wife Jessica and boys A.J., Logan and Erik, set up their display and are welcoming people to stop by “The Shrine on Durango” Thursdays from dusk-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from dusk-10:30 p.m. through October.
“I started working of stuff in midAugust,” said Ken. “I love it when the
kids come.”
Ken said he doesn’t go for scares as he would rather have children and families come and enjoy the display. It starts in front of the home and winds its way to the backyard.
While he purchased some of the displays at Home Depot, others were built and created himself. The neighbours enjoy the displays, he said. Ken added he also purchased another person’s collection.
The Anderson family decided to donate to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission after people were asking last year if donations were being accepted. It is the second year for “The Shrine on Durango” and they believe the mission is a great cause.
“I want to keep it local in Amherstburg,” he said of the donations.
The boys enjoyed working on the displays while setting them up and like being around when the public comes through.
“They love it,” said Ken. “They helped put it all together.”
Future plans include adding to the displays and having it loop around the entire house. They are able to store the bulk of the materials on site and plan to display them every year.
People from as far as Windsor come out to see it, Ken added, noting the home is listed on the Windsor, Ontario Everything Halloween Haunt Facebook page as well as on www.wehalloween.ca.
The CarnEvil display at the Shank home is available for viewing on weekends at 437 McLellan Ave. with people invited to bring food and monetary donations for the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission. Stan Lewton at 469 McLellan has a display in and around his garage with people invited to bring donations for Wings Rehabilitation Centre.
Minor League pickleball teams play on Amherstburg courts
By Ron Giofu
Minor league pickleball players were in Amherstburg for a one-day competition
to prepare themselves for their league finals.
The Detroit-Windsor Drive pickleball team, which competes in the Canadian
National Pickleball League, held a competition recently at the pickleball courts at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. They are part of “The Dink Minor League Pickleball Canada,” which is considered the “official pathway” to the Canadian National Pickleball League.
“It’s the second one in the area,” said Brandon Contratto, who leads the Drive along with Evan Hollinsky.
Tecumseh is home to the DetroitWindsor club, but they wanted to have another event before the league finals in London. Contratto added they plan on calling Amherstburg, Tecumseh and LaSalle courts as their home courts.
Contratto said there were 16 teams across three divisions at last Saturday’s competition, with each team consisting of two men and two women. Players
ranged in age from 15-years-old up to over 70.
“It’s a really, really good turnout for the first competition (in Amherstburg),” said Contratto. “There’s no age minimum or age maximum.”
The Detroit-Windsor Drive came to Amherstburg by getting to know members of the Amherstburg Pickleball Association, with members of the latter they know being Linda DiPasquale and Tim Rousseau.
The Drive will be competing against teams from across Canada at the championships in London. There will be eight teams in total at the national championships.
Contratto predicted there would be more team events at the Libro Centre.
“We’re just happy to be here,” he said.
“Spooky Jane’s Walk” comes to area, Amherstburg events sold out
By Ron Giofu
There is good news and bad news for anyone wanting to go on the Spooky Jane’s Walk.
The good news is there are still tickets for the Leamington and Windsor events, but the bad news is that the events in Amherstburg sold out quickly.
The Spooky Jane’s Walk, which is a fundraiser for the main Jane’s Walk Festival, occurs Oct. 17-25 at locations around the region.
The Amherstburg events are both scheduled for Oct. 18, with one being “Misdeeds and Mystery in a Small Town.” That is a walk around town with a “true crime” theme and is being led by Marsh Historical Collection collections co-ordinator Meg Reiner.
The second sold out Amherstburg event is “Whispers Within the Walls” that will be held at the Park House Museum. That event is a candlelight exploration of the
museum to “discover the darker side of life in Victorian Era Amherstburg.”
Festival organizer Sarah Morris said it is their second year doing the Spooky Jane’s Walk and they’re excited to return. While there is a charge to attend events on these tours, the proceeds fund the main - and freeJane’s Walk Festival that occurs every spring.
“We’re one of the largest Jane’s Walk Festivals in Canada,” she said. “We work on making it very accessible. We needed a way to fundraise for the spring festival.”
The fall festival is a way to combine what people love with a way to raise funds, Morris added.
“It’s a cool way to see the subjects in a new light.”
Events that still have tickets include “I’m not saying these houses are haunted, but…” in Leamington, which is a history and architectural tour of houses over 100-years-old in Leamington. That is Oct. 17 from
6:30-7:30 p.m. The three tours in Windsor are “Spirits in the Sky of Windsor Grove” in Windsor Grove Cemetery on Giles Blvd. East is Oct. 19 from 1-2 p.m., “Sandwich’s First Residents and First Residence” Oct. 25 from 11 a.m.-12 noon and “Multi-Unit Housing: What are We So Afraid Of?” Oct. 25 from 4-5 p.m. More details and tickets are available at www.windsorjaneswalk.ca.
Planning for the 2026 Jane’s Walk Festival starts in December and Morris said they are looking for new and better ways to expand the festival. “Jane’s Talks” were included in 2025 that allows people to sit and hear presentations if they have mobility issues, and Morris anticipates those will continue next year.
Morris hopes interested Amherstburg residents will make road trips to either Leamington or Windsor.
“Even though our Amherstburg events are sold out,” she said, “we recommend checking our Windsor and Leamington events.”
The Detroit-Windsor Drive pickleball team was in Amherstburg recently playing a tournament on the courts at the Libro Centre. The Drive play in the Canadian National Pickleball League.
• Adults who want to stay sharp, social and independent
• Anyone feeling tired, forgetful or withdrawn lately
• People noticing small things in memory, mood or connection
• Those curious about hearing, brain health or early dementia signs
• Family members or caregivers supporting a loved one
• Anyone who has ever said, “I’m just getting older, I guess”
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to hearing.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
You are seeing things more clearly this week, Aries. Conversations that felt stuck a little while ago are now moving along more smoothly. A bold decision comes up midweek.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, you are craving stability, both financially and emotionally. Use midweek to reevaluate your spending or a relationship that may be ready to be taken to the next level.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you are in your element this week. Communication flows easily, especially by Thursday. A short trip or spontaneous plan could spark something bigger than expected.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, a quieter energy surrounds you right now. You are being called to pause and reflect. It’s a good time to tend to your emotional needs and reflect on what’s ahead.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
The spotlight is on you right now and you are glowing, Leo. You may attract attention and admiration without even putting in extra effort. Use this week to push forward on personal goals.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
This week is all about you, Virgo. Focus on personal goals and self-improvement. Set strong goals for the year ahead.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, this is a great week to get things done. You’re focused, detail-oriented and motivated. Use every burst of energy to sort through the clutter in your life.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, your social life is buzzing right now, but don’t lose sight of bigger goals. A fresh connection or idea could lead to a long-term opportunity if you stay focused.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
You may feel pushed to take a risk or explore new ideas this week, Sagittarius. Trust your curiosity to take you where you need to be to find satisfaction.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Capricorn, even if no one sees you doing all of the hard work, you know how much effort you have been putting in. The effort will pay off soon enough when results are there for all to see.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
This week asks you to look at how you are showing up and helping others, Aquarius. An old friend or partner resurfaces and a current connection could deepen.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Your mind-body connection is strong this week, Pisces. If you have been ignoring rest or intuition, now is the time to focus on your priorities again.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
OCTOBER 12 - Josh Hutcherson, Actor (33)
OCTOBER 13 - Kate Walsh, Actress (58)
OCTOBER 14 - Rowan Blanchard, Actress (24)
OCTOBER 15 - Malú Trevejo, Singer (23)
OCTOBER 16 - Bryce Harper, Athlete (33)
OCTOBER 17 - Felicity Jones, Actress (42)
OCTOBER 18 - Zac Efron, Actor (38)
Major lawn bowling tournament comes to the region
By Ron Giofu
A major lawn bowling tournament came through the area last month.
The Windsor Lawn Bowling Club hosted the Atlantic International Challenge Sept. 20-24. This was the first time in 30 years that Canada has hosted such a tournament. Teams came in from Canada, the United States, Ireland and Scotland competing for a team championship.
Upwards of 40 players came to the Windsor Lawn Bowling Club to participate. Club president Wayne Wright pointed out it was a five-day tournament, followed by a pro-am the next couple of days. He noted Zehrs was a major sponsor.
“It probably took us a year in planning to put together,” explained Wright. “It’s in Ireland next year.”
The Atlantic International Challenge was in Scotland in 2024 and Wright said there was representation from the area at that. They were able to secure Windsor as the host of the 2025 event.
“It’s a big deal,” he said. “The players had a lovely time. It’s a world class venue. It’s all volunteer. We have no paid help here.”
Canada brought their top female player, Kelly McKerihan, who was previously ranked number one in the world and is currently ranked seventh. They also brought their top male player, Ryan Bester, who is also ranked in the top 10 and is a world champion.
The Windsor Lawn Bowling Club has about 120 members and is located just off of McDougall Ave., adjacent to Jackson Park. For more information, please visit www.wlbc.ca.
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Servicing LaSalle, Essex, Windsor & Amherstburg
The Canadian team was one of four lawn bowling teams that competed at the recent Atlantic International Challenge events held at the Windsor Lawn Bowling Club. Teams from Ireland, the United States and Scotland also participated.
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Admirals lose fourth straight but slowly improving
By Fred Groves
It’s been a tough couple of weeks for the Amherstburg Admirals but the good news is, they have started to turn things around.
The Admirals were blanked by the host Lakeshore Canadiens 7-0 last Friday night, and the next night at the Libro Centre, came up short again, this time 4-1 to the visiting Wheatley Sharks.
With four straight losses, the Admirals sit at 3-5-0-0 in the West Stobbs Division of the Provincial Junior Hockey League (Junior C).
Against the Sharks, Amherstburg trailed 1-0 after the first and 2-1 after two periods but came out flying with a lot of energy to start the third.
“It’s our fourth loss in a row but that was our best effort. We had a lot of chances but we couldn’t bear down and put the puck in the net,” said Admirals’ head coach Zack Gervais.
Amherstburg gave up a shorthanded goal early but led by Stefan Djordjevic who had the lone Admirals goal, seemed to turn things around mid-way through the game. Although he and veteran Brady Drouillard left the game with injuries, the Admirals seem to have gotten their game
back on track.
“We had a good talk after Lakeshore because the effort was abysmal. I think the effort was good tonight,” said Gervais.
With Drouillard and Djordjevic out and an early ejection to rookie Jackson Blair for checking-from-behind, the Admirals had to shuffle their lines and were shorthanded up front. That meant the reuniting of last year’s top offensive trio, captain Drew Booker, Brett Jones and Rory Sandison who came very close to
scoring a couple of times late in the game.
“We’ve been trying different combinations over the streak. We know the amount of success they had last year. It was our best line tonight,” said Gervais.
The Admirals were 0-for-6 on the powerplay and with 4:27 left to go, pulled goalie Bennett Horrocks but could not cash in on a 6-on-4 opportunity and saw the Sharks score into the empty net.
Horrocks was just signed a couple of days earlier, coming over from Essex. He had a 3-1 record, 1.73 GAA and .922 save
percentage with the 73’s. The Admirals for now will have three netminders with Horrocks, Landon Dimitroff and Jack Thomas.
“He’s solid, he’s a quiet kid. He does his job and is a good addition to our team,” said Gervais.
A couple of roster moves recently saw Madden Drouillard released. Veteran Dallas Kelly was traded to Lakeshore for Jack Lewis but Lewis declined to report to Amherstburg so he was dealt to Essex for Horrocks.
Next up for the Admirals, they host Mooretown in Harrow Thursday night and the Walpole Island Wild come to Amherstburg next Saturday night.
Defenceman Jake Goudreault is now an assistant captain. Forward Allan Djordjevic was recently given a twogame suspension and is scheduled to be back for the game in Harrow.
SLAPSHOTS… The Admirals welcomed guest singer Matt Saddler on Saturday who sings the National Anthem all over the province. He was greeted by a lot of fans, received swag and dropped the puck to start the game… Former Admirals goalie Russell Vaughan made 39 saves last week to lead the Blenheim Blades to a 3-0 win over Lakeshore.
Wolves football team records fourth straight shutout
By Ron Giofu
Four wins, four shutouts to start the 2025 WECSSAA Tier 2 senior football season for the North Star Wolves.
The Wolves headed to Tecumseh last Thursday night for their only road game of the season and came away with a 26-0 victory over the Tecumseh Vista Academy Vortex.
The win improved their record to 4-0 and their points for-points against statistics to 166-0.
The Wolves didn’t get off to as quick of a start as they would have liked but still sported a 13-0 halftime lead. Quarterback Ryan Reid recorded the first touchdown of the night in the first quarter, this one being from two yards out.
In the second quarter, a Steven Craner interception set the Wolves up deep in Vortex territory. Reid connected with running back Ashton
Fevreau on a 36-yard touchdown pass but it was called back on a holding penalty.
Fevreau still found the end
zone later in the quarter on a one-yard run.
Fevreau scored two more touchdowns in the third quarter, both on rushes. One was a four-yard touchdown run while the other was a sixyard run. The latter came after a North Star fumble recovery.
There was no scoring in the fourth quarter, though a Wolves’ drive stalled on the Tecumseh Vista four-yard line.
Lineman Alex Greason said they felt pretty good in improving to 4-0.
Greason said they believed they were a dominant team in Tier 2 coming into the season, but while some teams dropped down from Tier 1, they still feel good about their chances.
Greason pointed out they have scored over 150 points this season and have yet to allow one. He added they expected a tough game from Vista and they got one.
“We expected a dogfight,” he said.
“We expected to fight for every yard.” The Wolves didn’t play as well as they could play in the first half, but improved in the second half.
“I think we turned it up in the second half,” he said.
Greason said they want to clean up some of their penalties and play a “cleaner” brand of football.
“It can always be cleaner,” he said.
North Star coach Joel Charron also noted the Wolves have yet to allow a point this year.
“This was a test,” he said. “Vista always plays us hard. We came out hard. This was a business trip. We took care of business.”
The slower than normal start was something Charron attributed to nerves and adrenaline. He said once they settled down and got into the flow of the game, they started to play “North Star football.”
Continued on Page 15
Wheatley goalie Ethan Davis makes a third period save on Amherstburg’s Brody Gillis. Wheatley won last Saturday night’s game 4-1 at the Libro Centre.
North Star’s Ashton Fevreau (3) and Kingston Gardin (4) try to prevent a Tecumseh Vista Academy receiver from making a catch last Thursday evening in Tecumseh.
Local Business Directory
Community Calendar
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE; Lighthouse Church, 266 King St., Amherstburg, will be hosting a Women’s Conference featuring a Beth Moore Simulcast from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost $35, includes a grab-and-go breakfast as well as lunch. To register please contact Susie at 519-329-0638 or e-mail lighthousewomen04@gmail.com.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18
ONTARIO PURPLE MARTIN ASSOCIATION
MEETING; The Ontario Purple Martin Association will have their final meeting of 2025 at Orchard View Golf Course, 1357 County Road 34, Ruthven. It starts at 9 a.m. Members – please bring your stats for your colony. For further info, please contact Paul at 519-738-3476. The public is welcome to see why we love these birds.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19
“HOPE IS EVERYTHING” CONCERT; TIA MCGRAFF, with Tommy Parham, hosting concert at Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., in Amherstburg. Starts at 2 p.m., $25 suggested donation at the door. For info, call 519-7367636 or e-mail christchurchamherstburg@diohuron.org.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
SULLY’S MONSTER DASH; 5K run/walk/wheel will be held at Holiday Beach Conservation Area. Starts sharply at 10:30 a.m. Prices are $50 for 5K and $25 for the Kids Dash. Costume contest, treat bags, food trucks, kids activities and more. Proceeds to Children’s Health Foundation in London. Registration at www.raceroster.com. For info, contact sullysgivingback@gmail.com or call 226-759-2565.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
PUMPKINFEST; Over 200 vendors will be at North Star High School, 330 Simcoe St. in Amherstburg, for annual event. Breakfast and lunch options provided by culinary students. Runs from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission free, donations appreciated.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25
FUNDRAISER; The Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda is doing a fundraiser for The Bridge Youth Group in Leamington. Donations will be via “pass the hat” and a Bridge representative will be present to provide receipts for donations over $25. “Guys Who Like To Sing” musical performance between 2-4 p.m. Church is at 2953 Olinda Side Road in Ruthven.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
AMHERSTBURG FIGHTS CANCER; Fundraiser being held at AMA Sportsmen’s Association, 468 Lowes
Ambassador to 2025 Grow On Windsor campaign. Fun-filled evening supports Windsor Cancer Centre and the upgrading of its radiation suites. Tickets $30, includes pasta dinner, entertainment by Tom Hogarth & Friends and Bethany D’Alimonte, cash bar, 50/50 draw and raffle prizes. Runs 4-9 p.m. Contact Mickle at 519-816-7189 for tickets or buy them at Carol’s Unisex Hair Design, Mealtime Express, the Remax office in Amherstburg or Musicland.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16
HOPE OF ST. JOSEPH SHELTER FUNDRAISING DINNER; All are welcome to a tasty fundraiser dinner at 5:30 p.m. for the charity Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. at Coachwood Golf and Country Club in McGregor. Charity supports and gives an education to the abused girls and boys living at the shelters founded by Father Donato, who sadly died of cancer this past June at 61 years. The charity will continue his legacy. Cost $35 adults; 12 years and under $18. Take-out dinners available. For tickets call Sue Deslippe 226-280-5144, Mary Beneteau 519-996-4800, Rose Beneteau 519-817-3649, Bev Bondy 519-736-4837, Larry Allen 519-736-6731.
ONGOING
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-our-historic-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; Latest exhibit is “Timid Timothy Illustrations,” featuring artist Della Kasarda. Runs until Oct. 19. Free admission, donations accepted. Gibson Gallery is at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Fall hours 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday-Sunday.
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. 519-7265869
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 4:306 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.
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, welcoming Rev. Paul Langston-Daley to deliver a message on the topic of “The Tender Places In our Hearts” Oct. 19. Services start at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome.
MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary
needs. 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 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.
MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with free lunch from 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www. aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, 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.
Heritage committee hears suggestions on what “heritage economy” could include
Continued from Page 5
Vice chair Shirley Curson-Prue suggested utilizing the Marsh Historical Collection to support the plan, with Chamely agreeing with that idea. Curson-Prue added funding for students could come from a “number of different programs” and asked how the ideas could come together.
Chamely suggested coming up with an idea in the new year and pitching it to town council.
“Who knows, maybe we can start getting some revenue to build that base and we can come up with a plan on
how to use the money?” he said.
Curson-Prue said she wanted to see the issue re-appear at the next meeting of the heritage committee for further discussion.
“It might just be a bad idea altogether but I’m just putting it out there to see if we can do something,” said Chamely. “We have all this information, we have all this history in town, let’s try to capitalize on it.”
Committee member Frank DiPasquale suggested bringing in stakeholders like museums, businesses and churches to a meeting. Chamely said that would be a future step.
“I think we have to come up with some kind of plan, recommend it to council, and then pitch it to see who to include in it,” said Chamely.
Committee member Robert Honor said the town’s tourism department have created heritage-related opportunities and products.
“I would think the tourism office for the Town of Amherstburg would be involved in a project like this,” said Honor.
Chamely emphasized they have to figure out how to start and get a plan together, and wanted it added to the committee’s unfinished business list.
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EVENT SPACE FOR RENT
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Please Recycle
RUMMAGE SALE
St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church,129 Simcoe St., Fri. Oct. 24 10a-4p, Sat. Oct. 25 9a-2p. Come out to our fall rummage sale and enjoy looking for the many treasures just for you! Clothes, books, toys, pictures, housewares and so much more! If you wish to donate items please call 519-995-6957 before Monday, October 20 to arrange pick-up.
“ARE YOU SAVED?”
That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110
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Deadline for Classified Advertising is Monday at 12 noon.
Loving Memory
Happy Birthday in Heaven - October 14th. Missing you and honouring you always, Wife Josie and Sons Chris & Dan
Happy Anniversary - October 15th There are no words to describe the love we've shared for 56 years. Although I cannot hold you in my arms, I hold you in my heart and my dreams that you cone to me often, keep it up! I will always love you and faithfully remain "YOUR GIRL."
16,
Wolves senior boys volleyball team drop three straight matches last week
By Ron Giofu
It was a tough week for the North Star Wolves senior boys volleyball team as they dropped three straight matches on their home floor.
The Wolves first hosted the Holy Names Knights last Tuesday night in Amherstburg. After a strong first set where the Wolves won 25-10, the Knights clawed back and won the next two by identical 25-22 scores.
“It was a really good game,” said North Star’s Max Ricciuti. “We played well.” Ricciuti said they blocked and served well, particularly in the first set. Holy Names put in some different players in the second set and that turned the tables. North Star hustled hard in the third set but couldn’t earn the victory.
“We came up short in the end,” he said.
Ricciuti said after last Tuesday’s match that he believes North Star can play with any team in the league. He said they have to work on their passing, hits and blocking.
The Wolves are getting better as the season progresses, he added, and believes their improvement will continue.
North Star hosted Leamington in a make-up game last Wednesday evening. The game was postponed due to a fog day earlier in the season. Leamington won two sets to one.
The match against the Lions was close for the most part, with the Wolves winning 25-21 in the first set but falling 26-24 in a tight second set. Leamington
won the match with a 25-12 victory in the third and final set.
The undefeated Essex Red Raiders came to Amherstburg last Thursday evening and proved to be a tough opponent. The Red Raiders swept the Wolves 25-10, 25-21 and 25-16 to improve to 6-0 and drop North Star to 1-5.
The senior Wolves will look to get back on the winning track tonight at home (Oct. 15) with a 5:20 p.m. match against the Cardinal Carter Cougars.
The junior Wolves played the same three opponents on the same three days on the same court. They beat Holy Names three straight last Tuesday (25-17, 25-12 and 25-12), lost to Leamington two sets to one Wednesday (25-19, 22-25 and 16-25) and swept Essex Thursday (25-13, 25-14 and 25-20).
The juniors’ match versus Cardinal Carter is Oct. 15 at 4 p.m. Their record is 4-2.
Efforts of SACU to be bolstered by family’s Uganda visit
Continued from Page 1
Silvaggio-Heugh said she wanted to go back to Uganda earlier than this year, since her last three trips to the African nation were taken every other year, but the COVID-19 pandemic and other situations occurred.
“I can’t wait to see how the children have grown especially our sponsored children. My goal is to take a picture of each child in their environment and to write to their sponsor,” she said. “I am hoping to become more familiar with the students and to work with them in the school setting. I will also be spending time with the teaching staff and the Ugandan Committee Team in formal and informal meetings.”
There was a recent “trunk sale” to sell all of the extra items Silvaggio-Heugh said she couldn’t fit into her allotted suitcases.
“I have always taken ten suitcases filled with clothes, shoes and supplies for the children and teaching staff. The cost for the extra suitcases has greatly increased over the years and was told by the airline that I could only bring four extras,” she said. “Family and friends continue to be so generous and have contributed to some of the cost. I am so grateful to those who have
Wolves host Kennedy Oct. 24
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Steven Craner looks for room to run after making a first half interception against
The Wolves spread the ball around to different running backs to run the ball against Vista. There is a bye week for North Star this week and he added they will delve deeper into their playbook and work on some new aspects of their game.
The next game for the Wolves is Oct. 24 at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg against the Kennedy Clippers. Kickoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
reached out to me wanting to contribute to feeding the children and donating for the cause.”
James said he and Isabelle will be joining his mother in Uganda next Monday (Oct. 20) to visit the remote village where SACU started.
“The organization is close to my mom’s heart and responsible for taking care of over 200 students,” he said. “Over the past 13 years I’ve watched my mom pour herself into this endeavor. It’s been a dream of mine to join her and help make a difference.”
James added his goal is to help give more light to the daily struggles of the children as they grow up “and look to do more with their lives while sharing their names, stories and dreams.”
“I will also be teaching the children acrobatics,” he said. “I believe in my mother’s vision and aspiration. I can’t wait to be a part of this experience.”
James’ skills in acro-performance has led him to television appearances on such shows as America’s Got Talent as well as involvement with the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show.
For further information on the grassroots organization SACU, please visit their website at www.sacuspirit.org.
Tecumseh Vista Academy.
North Star’s Evan Scott (5) goes up for a block Oct. 7 against the Holy Names Knights. Holy Names defeated the Wolves two sets to one in a game played at North Star High School.
Max Ricciuti (right) hits the ball over the net against Holy Names Oct. 7 at North Star High School.
Ingrid Silvaggio-Heugh (centre) will be joined by her son James and James’ finanée Isabelle on her next trip to Uganda.
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OCTOBER
Public Skating
5-7pm
$4/Person
$12/Family of 5 (Most Sunday’s)
NOVEMBER
Year of the Tree Theme: Creating a Resilient Ecosystem with Trees
Economic Development Advisory Committee Mtg Town Hall 5pm
Council Meeting Agenda LIVE Amherstburg.ca/ council
Senior Public Skating 9-10am $4/Person Turf Tots
Register for Aphasia Friendly World Training aphasiafriendly canada ca October 19-25 is Local Government Week!
Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Mtg Town Hall 5pm
10am-12pm $2/Child Under 6 (Mon, Wed, Fri) Adult Yoga
White Goods Pickup
2-3pm $5/Person $4/senior (Tuesday’s)
Public Skating 1-2pm $4/Person (Wednesday’s)
Test your Smoke Alarm!
9:30-10:30am $5/Person $4/Senior (Friday’s)
Last Day to Call White Goods Pickup 519-736-3664 Friday recycle will be picked up Saturday,Oct 18 Halloween Spooktacular at the Libro ! 4pm - 7pm All Ages
Beginner Skating 4-5pm
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$12/Family of 5 (Most Saturday’s) FREE Regular Council Meeting Town Hall 6pm
Get active at the Libro with ADrop-In ctivities Skating for all ages, Yoga (All abilities) and Turf Tots amherstburg.ca /beactive
