October 8,
Blessing of the Animals
WEBC lands $25,700 in OTF funding
By Ron Giofu
The Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) has obtained funding to enhance its youth programming.
WEBC officially received an Ontario Trillium Grant in the amount of $25,700 with a presentation taking place last Wednesday night at Flow Café and Bikes in Amherstburg.
OTF grant review committee member Tony Francis made the presentation. He complimented Amanda Dywelska, one of the WEBC directors, for doing a great job in writing the grant application.
Francis added WEBC does a great job giving back to their community.
James Braakman, another WEBC director, said the organization was “extremely grateful” to the OTF for the grant. He said the funding will go towards youth programming, and that includes new bicycles, helmets, a storage facility and trail maintenance equipment.
Braakman admitted he never thought the trail system idea would come to fruition when he first came up with it and thanked all donors and supporters for making the Libro Centre trails possible.
“Let’s continue to grow riding in Essex County,” he said.
WEBC built and maintain the threephase trail project at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg.
“Youth riding is near and dear to my heart,” explained Dywelska.
Dywelska recalled her father taking her bike riding when she was a nineyear-old and how keeping active with that has helped her throughout the years.
“It’s gotten me through a lot of tough times in my life,” she said. “It’s a way to relax out there.”
In addition to Dywelska and Braakman, other WEBC directors include Dave Doherty, Ryan Henderson and Glyn Buck.
The event was one of the final to be held at Flow Café and Bikes while it is in Amherstburg, as the business announced on social media last week it is relocating to the Walkerville section of Windsor.
The night ended up being for multiple events. In addition to the OTF grant presentation, WEBC wrapped up its youth riding nights for the summer with several awards and raffle draws throughout the event.
For more about the Windsor-Essex Bike Community, please visit their website at www.webcride.com.
The Ontario Trillium Foundation states on its website it is investing over $28 million in 300 communitybased projects through its capital grant stream.
Christ Anglican Church in Amherstburg held its annual “Blessing of the Animals” service last Sunday morning. Rev. Lisa Poultney blessed dogs, hamsters, and pictures of pets, both on phones and photos that were printed off. One of the dogs Rev. Poultney blessed during the service was Rosa, accompanied by her owner Leya Foster. RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU
OTF representative Tony Francis (left) stands with Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) directors James Braakman and Amanda Dywelska after announcing a $25,700 grant.
Ford lashes out against Diageo again, threatens to pull products
By Ron Giofu
Crown Royal could be leaving LCBO shelves should the company follow through with its planned plant closure in Amherstburg.
The bottling plant on St. Arnaud St. faces closure in Feb. 2026 and Premier Doug Ford has threatened to pull the company’s products from the LCBO, including Crown Royal.
Ford appeared at a rally in Brampton last weekend and told the crowd that Crown Royal would be leaving store shelves next February upon closure of the plant.
“As sure as I’m standing here, to all the bigwigs at Diageo, I swear to God, those bottles of Crown Royal are coming off the LCBO shelves,” Ford stated at the rally. “When the last person walks out through the door, we’re going to make sure the LCBO takes off their brands because we need to stick together.”
Essex MPP Anthony Leardi posted the Ford quote, along with a photo of him dumping out a bottle of Crown Royal.
Multiple media outlets reported that news, as well as a Monday afternoon dig the premier took at the company. According to a report on CTV’s website, Ford stated “who in their right mind, any business person with half a brain, would go after their largest customer in North America?”
Ford was also quoted by CTV as saying: “Diageo, we do over $765
million, more than any jurisdiction anywhere in the U.S. or in Canada, and they want to close down a plant? Over what? $8 million of wages they think they are going to save.”
Smirnoff is reportedly the next target to be removed after Crown Royal.
Ford previously called company executives “as dumb as a bag of hammers for doing this.”
Nearly 200 jobs in total are in jeopardy due to the decision.
The unionized workers within the plant are represented by Unifor Local 200.
The union has continued to fight the decision and retirees rallied outside the plant shortly after the decision was announced in support of their colleagues inside the facility.
Diageo was approached for comment about the most recent developments but did not answer a request for comment as of press time. In its initial announcement, the company said closing the Amherstburg plant next February is part “of an ongoing commitment to increase efficiency and resiliency of its manufacturing footprint.”
Diageo added it will maintain operations in Gimli, Manitoba and Valleyfield, Quebec as well as their Canadian headquarters and warehouse operations in the Toronto area.
The company has said the current trade climate with the United States did not play into its decision.
Continued on Page 4
Opposition continues for county DC's
By Fred Groves
Essex County Council has taken one step closer to creating a by-law that will see an approximately $13,000 development charge attached to new home builds.
However, as in previous discussion over the DC’s, there is some opposition and at last Wednesday’s public meeting, representatives from the Windsor-Essex Home Builders Association voiced their disapproval.
“Development charges, while intended to fund growth, ultimately land on the backs of future homeowners. They drive up the cost of housing at a time when affordability is already slipping away,’ said WEHBA chair Brent Klundert.
Vice chair Norbert Bolger added that perhaps the county could dip into it’s $316 million of reserves to pay for growth.
He also made mention that the housing market is slow. Recently released stats indicate residential sales in WindsorEssex were down 14.7 per cent in September.
“Nobody is buying now, it is very slow. There is a lot of uncertainty,” said Bolger.
Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue wanted to know why houses cost so much to build and got into a debate with the builders saying that the price of materials is going down and there is a lot of available land.
“You are telling us what we should do. What are you going to do?” asked Prue. “This should be an excellent time for developers. Interest rates are going down.”
Klundert and Bolger disagreed with Prue’s comments about lower materials
cost and Bolger pointed towards provincial and federal taxes driving up prices. He said a recent home that sold for $1.3 million was assessed $200,000 in taxes.
“We get talked down to at $13,000. How the heck do you do that,” said Warden Hilda MacDonald about the high taxes. “I am astounded by that.”
Most county councillors, including Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said that growth has to pay for growth and it has to come now and that it should not come at the expense of existing taxpayers but rather new home builds.
“Is it the wrong time to do this, yup. It’s always going to be the wrong time to do this,” said Gibb added that the county needs an equitable way in which to grow and maintain the county and that development charges should have been put into place 20 years ago. Gibb added that the 2026 budget year will require the new charges, more taxes and a possible reduction in services.
Some councillors felt a phased in approach may work over a few years.
Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey and Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt have been against the new charges from the beginning.
“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. These are uncertain times,” said Bailey.
CAO Sandra Zwiers told MacDonald that Mississauga has a $135,000 development charge, Burlington $127,000; Halton $95,000 and Peel, $54,000.
Essex County’s $13,000 is in addition to the fees local municipalities already have in place.
County council will vote on the charges at their Nov. 19 meeting.
Order of the Eastern Star donates $5K to Bryerswood Youth Camp
By Ron Giofu
The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) received a sizable donation last week from a local service organization.
The Fort Malden 268 Order of the Eastern Star presented a $5,000 cheque to BYCOC president Kathi Poupard last Thursday afternoon. The BYCOC is the organization that oversees and runs the Bryerswood Youth Camp on Texas Road in Amherstburg.
The Order of the Eastern Star was represented by past Worthy Matron and Patrons Barb and Dave Cozens and Brenda and Paul Hooper.
Dave explained that as Worthy Matron and Patron, they are allowed to choose what charities and non-profit organizations to donate to.
“We picked Bryerswood,” he said.
a March Break camp, rentals to community groups, and other functions.
How to use the $5,000 will be a decision of the BYCOC board of directors, Poupard added. She said there could be a variety of uses for the money, from paying down their mortgage to maintenance of the campground or to put the money towards upgrades.
The BYCOC is trying to continue upgrades to its activity centre. A previous Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant helped pay for washroom and kitchen upgrades to the activity centre, but the rest of the building needs work from heating and cooling to insulation among the needs.
Brenda added there are “special circumstances” behind the sizable donation, noting their chapter is consolidating with another chapter in the area.
“We decided to give away a significant portion of our funds. We want to keep
A major fundraiser for the organization has been a chili cookoff, the most recent of which was held at Thistle Masonic Lodge on Murray St. last February. Two BYCOC board members – Ian Phillips and Ralph Poupard – served as judges at that event.
the money local,” she said.
“We felt all the money raised came from local people,” added Dave. “We want to keep it local. We want to support people who support us.”
Poupard said the campground operates throughout the year, including six weeks of summer camp, PA Day camps,
Poupard added Bryerswood is working on obtaining accreditation from the Ontario Campground Association. Their goal since acquiring the campground in 2021 and starting programming in 2022 is to teach children and youth leadership and life skills in a natural environment.
For more information on Bryerswood, please visit www.bryerswood.com.
Interest for regional transit failing at the county level
By Fred Groves
A feasibility study to look into funding and governance models for a county-wide transit system will move forward however, many Essex County Council members are in opposition of backing a current system.
At last week’s regular session, director of planning and infrastructure Allan Botham brought forth a report from a transit working group.
Botham said the working group “cautiously supports regional transit” but there has to be a balance between recognizing that the transit system is for the public and doesn’t make money. There is also data that supports an agreement in favour of transit, he added.
County council agreed to dip into the 2026 reserves to do a feasibility study but when it came to allocating $130,000 again from reserves to continue a bus route that goes from Windsor to Leamington with stops in
Essex and Kingsville, that was defeated.
While it was Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb who made the motion to support the study, he was against further financing of the current system.
“I can’t bring myself to approve $130,000 for busing for Leamington, Essex and Kingsville. At this point it’s a local issue to deal with,” said Gibb.
According to statistics provided by the county, monthly usage ranges from 700 to 1,100.
Continued on Page 4
Fort Malden Order of the Eastern Star presented a $5,000 cheque to the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) last Thursday. Past Worthy Matron and Patrons Dave and Barb Cozens (left) and Brenda and Paul Hooper (right) present the cheque to BYCOC president Kathi Poupard.
A few thoughts on some recent decisions that have taken place in Amherstburg
I just had a few random thoughts with some of the things that have been decided upon lately in Amherstburg. Some of these thoughts have been bouncing around my skull for a few weeks now, others have recently popped up there.
Since Page 4 is not being used entirely for stories this week, I have taken a few moments to put them down. These are just my thoughts, for what they’re worth, and I am speaking for nobody but myself – not that there is anything overly thought provoking here.
While viewing the agenda for the upcoming town council meeting that is scheduled for Oct. 14, I am glad to see the previously agreed-to work at Meloche Road and Simcoe St. is progressing.
A tender for the improvements, which includes a four-way stop, is up for consideration and I am for any sort of traffic control at that intersection. It should cut down on accidents there and make things safer for pedestrians walking to the Libro Centre, or just out for a stroll in that neighbourhood. I know a roundabout was considered at one point at that intersection and maybe one could be put there at some point in the future. I would
JUST A THOUGHT
Ron Giofu
not be opposed to that nor would I be opposed with a traffic light eventually going up at Simcoe and Meloche.
Thinking about that intersection also made me also think of another intersection, particularly the one at Lowes Side Road and Sandwich St. S. that has recently been in the news.
I agree a crosswalk should go there as I spoke with several residents of the Blue Haven a few months ago who pointed out safety concerns walking to where they have to go. I know roundabouts are more expensive, but what about one there at some point in the future?
Just food for thought, but it would slow traffic down at what has been described as a “unique intersection.”
Another issue I’ve been giving some thought to was voting methods. I was a bit disappointed online voting wasn’t given more consideration a few weeks ago as I would have liked to have seen that added as a voting option for 2026.
I am in favour of the existing in-person method with electronic tabulators, but adding online voting would modernize elections and possibly boost voter turnout.
Oh well, maybe in 2030.
Speaking of elections, I wouldn’t lose sleep if a ward system was eventually brought in but I prefer the current at large system if given a choice.
My thinking is that if there is a candidate I either want to vote for or against and they live in another part of town from where I live, I wouldn’t get the opportunity.
I get that people want to be represented, but I feel town council should always think of the whole town rather than just their ward so I’m fine with the at large system.
I don’t have any issues with towns that do have a ward system and wouldn’t be irate if there ever was a switch, but again, my preference is to keep things as they are. For 2026 at least, that is going to be what will be happening.
These are just my thoughts, and now I’ve had a chance to sit down and publish them. Everyone is entitled to their opinions and these are mine, for whatever they are worth.
Woman
promises to “pay it forward” after act of kindness in grocery store
On Wednesday, October 1 at approximately 6 p.m., I shopped at our local No Frills store.
After scanning my groceries through, I discovered I had neither cash nor bank cards in my purse. Immediately a young woman, who was next in line, paid for my groceries.
I did not know her; she did not know me. She rejected my efforts to repay her. She said she was glad to be in a position to help someone in need.
Your act of kindness will stay with me forever. You made me proud of Amherstburg and gave my day a very happy ending.
My promise to you is that I will “pay it forward.”
Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
—Pat McLaughlin Amherstburg
Could province soon pull Crown Royal off of LCBO store shelves?
Continued from Page 2
“Through this process, the company will unlock additional productivity and increase resiliency and capacity to scale, effectively meeting demand across
its markets and shifting some bottling volume to be closer to its many U.S. Crown Royal consumers. These changes are consistent with the strategic priorities in Diageo’s global Accelerate program,
which sets out clear cash delivery targets and a disciplined approach to operational excellence and cost efficiency for the company,” the company stated in August.
County council members not overly interested in regional transit right now
Continued from Page 3
“It might be something people want, but I don’t see it as a priority item,” said Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt.
Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue said that he was against his town funding, through county tax dollars, a transit system that does not benefit them. Amherstburg shares a service with neighbouring LaSalle.
“I know when I go back to
Amherstburg they are going to ask how much did we get, because right now we get nothing and we run that transit system all by ourselves and we run it with the gas tax money,” said Prue.
Opposition from county councillors did not sit well with Warden Hilda MacDonald, who cited the fact that the new roundabout at County Road 42 and Manning Road may not be used by all residents who live in the county, but it is being funded with county
dollars.
“If we are a regional government, we have to do things that don’t always affect us directly, and I think we’ve had a real struggle with that,” said MacDonald.
MacDonald went on to say that it is a big mistake to think as individual municipalities and not as a regional powerhouse.
In his report to council, Botham pointed out three funding models that came out of the transit working
group. These included each municipality funding their own system, the county taking full responsibility for a system and continuing to subsidize the Windsor-Leamington route.
“Our transportation master plan shows there is some interest in regional transit,” said Botham.
Botham also noted that the Regional Transit Working Group does not have enough expertise, time or resources to make recommendations on interim or long-term plans.
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Art celebrated at the Gibson Gallery, both inside and out
By Ron Giofu
A new children’s book that is coming out authored by an area author is having its illustrations exhibited at the Gibson Gallery.
“Timid Timothy Illustrations” by artist Della Kasarda is on display until Oct. 19, with the artist reception last Sunday afternoon at the gallery.
The reception was held at the same time as a “pop up” with local artists, artisans and crafters the gallery held outside the building.
Kasarda, who lost her hearing at age two, illustrated the book that was authored by Stephen Romanow. Romanow’s exhibit “From the Depths of My Soul” ran at the Gibson Gallery from Sept. 11-28, and now the illustrations for his book “Timid Timothy” by Kasarda is the current exhibit.
Reading and drawing have been lifelong passions for Kasarda. She would attend Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. and obtained a degree as she had a fine arts major and English minor.
Further education occurred at Sheridan College of Applied Arts and Technology, specializing in interpretive illustration.
Her employment history includes being the senior creative illustrator for Ginn and Company Educational Publishing.
After difficulty in her personal life, Kasarda would move to Ruthven to live with her parents and her illustration creation continued. She reconnected with Romanow, whom she knew before he moved out west, and they began working together eight years ago when he returned to the area.
Romanow said he wrote the book about 40 years ago, and began working on the project the last few years.
“She began doing illustrations for it,” said Romanow.
Kasarda received a grant from the Ontario Arts Council and Romanow
said work continued, with both parties making changes based either on what was written or what was illustrated.
“Timid Timothy” is now 18 pages with 36 illustrations.
“We’re hoping to get it published soon,” he said.
Kasarda worked in three mediums for the book, something Romanow said she hadn’t done before. Kasarda added, through Romanow’s interpretation, that she loves drawing and illustrations and she is happy to see her work in what is her first solo exhibit.
Lisa Bassett, a gallery board member, added the “pop up” is a way to support local artists, artisans and
Ice Cream Social
An ice cream social was hosted recently by Jocelyn Rousseau and Jaclyn Hertel. The public was invited to come out, enjoy a $5 ice cream and each other’s company. A good turnout was reported from the ice cream social, held on Texas Road. Proceeds from the fundraiser will be donated to Be The Light Outreach Ministry.
crafters, with proceeds benefiting the gallery’s operation.
Vendors also get to network and learn more about each other and their art, she said.
“A lot of vendors have already signed up for the Holiday Gift Shoppe as well,” said Bassett.
The Holiday Gift Shoppe starts in mid-November.
The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. They are open ThursdaySunday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, please call 519-736-2826 or visit their website at www.gibsonartgallery.com.
County dips into reserves to pay for transportation plan shortcomings
By Fred Groves
The County of Essex is anticipating there will be a lot more people living in the area and they are preparing for that growth with a Transportation Master Plan.
A plan has not been done since 2005 and the new one, once approved will set a course for up to 2051.
“If we do nothing from 2038 to 2051 and we receive the growth that is anticipated, there will be a number of areas across the county that will experience mobility challenges,” said consultant Alvaro Almunia.
Included is a possible public transit system, road widening and bike trails.
Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy had concerns about the bike lane on the shoulders of County Road 50 that stretches from Kingsville up to Amherstburg.
“Your concerns are noted, and we are working on that. It’s a little more gradual than what the Transportation Master Plan will be looking at,” said county manager of transportation planning and development Jerry Behl.
In his report to council last Wednesday night, Behl asked the county for an additional $10,000 from reserves to pay for what he said were “shortcomings” when it came to working towards the plan.
There are several recommendations in the plan including facilitating long term planning and policy framework for transportation infrastructure over the next 30 years. Also, establishing a blueprint to develop future transportation networks and recognize the unique needs for municipalities.
Almunia made a presentation to council and he said the purpose of the plan is to give the public safe and reliable choices.
“It’s to recognize the best system for the uniqueness of the county and its local municipal partners,” he said.
In a separate item at the recent county council meeting, there was a lot of debate about the funding and governance of a public transit system.
Responding to the presentation from Almunia, Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey asked, “I am wondering how
dialed in Transit Windsor and the City of Windsor is to this plan at this stage.”
Almunia responded, “they are more concerned about today and we are more aware of the future but they are aware of some of the ideas coming forward.”
The Transportation Master Plan will continue to get public feedback in November, a final environmental study is planned for January, and a complete plan comes to council for approval in February.
Artist Della Kasarda had her artist reception last Sunday at the Gibson Gallery. Her exhibit, “Timid Timothy Illustrations,” runs at the gallery through Oct. 19. There was also a “pop up” arts and crafts show at the Gibson Gallery last Sunday with vendors outside around the building.
RTT STAFF PHOTOS
Seniors Day flag raising observed in Amherstburg
By Ron Giofu
National Seniors Day was observed last week in Amherstburg.
A flag raising at Amherstburg town hall featured members of town council and administration, but also representatives from the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) last Wednesday morning.
“We are here to raise the flag in honour of National Seniors Day, observed annually on Oct. 1,” stated Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb. “This day provides an important opportunity to recognize the invaluable contributions of seniors to our families, our community and our country.”
Gibb said the ceremony was in partnership with the Windsor-Essex County chapter of CARP, which is Canada’s largest advocacy group for older adults. Co-chairs Larry Duffield and David Rathan were among the CARP representatives on hand.
“Our local chapter works tirelessly to serve local seniors by advocating for their rights, providing resources and ensuring that their voices are heard at every level of government and community decision-making,” said Gibb. “In Canada, it is a time to pause and reflect on the ongoing impact and leadership that seniors provide in our daily lives.”
The deputy mayor added that as the flag was raised, “let it served as a symbol of our gratitude, respect and commitment to supporting seniors in all aspects of community life.”
Gibb thanked CARP Windsor-Essex for their dedication to seniors.
“Your wisdom, leadership and spirit continue to strengthen Amherstburg,” he said.
Duffield acknowledged a similar flag raising last June for seniors’ month. He pointed out a United Nations declaration in 1991 for International Day of Elder Persons. He also noted his involvement in broadening the reach of National Seniors Day, as far back as 2005.
Roughly 40 per cent, or 800 members, of the local CARP chapter reside in the county, he added. Duffield said they stay busy advocating for the needs of seniors in the area.
Following the flag raising, CARP members and accompanying seniors travelled to Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 for a lunch and presentations, with the latter including discussions on long-term care options.
Senior Active Living Social comes to LaSalle
By Ron Giofu
With Oct. 1 being National Seniors Day, a neighbouring municipality to Amherstburg celebrated as well.
The Town of LaSalle hosted a “Senior Active Living Social” last Thursday, one day after the commemoration of National Seniors Day.
The social, held at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing, was open to seniors from not just LaSalle but all across Essex County and Windsor.
It featured pickleball demonstrations, dancing demonstrations, food, beverages, tabletop games, cornhole, music, drum fit and more.
Julie Turnbull, supervisor of programming with the Town of LaSalle, said LaSalle received funding from the Province of Ontario in the form of a Seniors Active Living Centre
(SALC) grant. The funding allows the town to support seniors and help them make connections in the community.
“In honour of National Seniors Day, we’re having a social,” said Turnbull.
“It’s open to any resident.”
Nancy Pattison’s Dance World, the LaSalle Pickleball Association, staff from the Vollmer Centre and others were on hand to support the social.
Events during Seniors Month went well in LaSalle and Turnbull was hopeful for an equally good turnout last week.
Turnbull said they had good traction on social media for the event and they also advertised the event in area newspapers.
Amherstburg also receives funding through the SALC program and that helps with seniors programming on Victoria St. S.
Allan Major from the local CARP chapter spoke on the issue as he is from the long-term care transformation committee.
Seasons Amherstburg leasing manager Morgan Ouimette also made a presentation to the group.
CARP Windsor-Essex co-chair Larry Duffield speaks at a National Seniors Day flag raising. At left is Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb.
National Seniors Day was observed in Amherstburg with a flag raising in front of town hall last Wednesday morning. Representatives from the Windsor-Essex County chapter of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) joined town officials in raising the flag following a brief ceremony in front of the building.
Diana Carter tries her hand at cornhole duirng the senior social in LaSalle last Thursday
American author comes to River Bookshop for writing workshop
By Ron Giofu
An author came to River Bookshop recently for a one-hour reading and workshop.
Award winning author and college professor Maureen Aitken led the workshop Sept. 23, on the heels of the release of her short story collection “The Patron Saint of Lost Girls.”
Aitken said she is familiar with Amherstburg from when she lived in Michigan, and still visits the town. She said the event at River Bookshop was mostly a reading and she gave tips on how to write flash fiction.
Flash fiction is fiction that takes under 1,000 words to complete. She said it is a more popular way to write now, adding it is like an online journal.
About four or five stories in her new book are flash fiction, she added.
“It’s a good test for young writers to flex their muscles and see what they can do,” said Aitken, who now lives in
Minneapolis.
“The Patron Saint of Lost Girls” is her first book and was reissued by Wayne State University Press. She said she is working on two more books, one fiction and one non-fiction.
Advice she would give aspiring writers is to have writing groups and support systems they can bounce ideas off of.
“I think one of the great things about being a writer is the community you can build with other writers,” she said. “It’s fun to share stories.”
In order to be a good writer, people should also be good readers.
Aitken said she has always found Amherstburg to be “very charming.”
According to the press kit on Aitken’s book: “Maureen Aitken’s The Patron Saint of Lost Girls, set in the 1970s and ‘80s is the story of one young woman growing up in Detroit, Michigan, where jobs were scarce and many executives and auto workers were laid off. The economic stagflation of the 1970s and
recession of the 1980s. In this collection of linked stories, we follow Mary as she seeks to cope with and withstands hardship and confront her fears of exploitation, abuse and death. Along the way, she delves into the complex yet nurturing relationships with her family and friends who teach her to love better, live fuller, and question power. The Patron Saint of Lost Girls presents an unflinching tale of life in the late 20th-century post-industrial Midwest.”
Meaghan Desjardins, lead bookseller at the River Bookshop, said one of her sales contacts put her in touch with Aitken and the idea grew from there to bring her in.
“I’ve always wanted to do workshops,” said Desjardins. “It all fell into place.”
Desjardins added they have a few more ideas for workshops and the plan is to have more of them. Nothing is set in stone as of yet, but ideas are being pursued.
“We’re grateful to Maureen for bringing in her expertise,” she said.
Album release party
Anderdon Public School and their “Swifties” that go to school there held an album release party for Taylor Swift’s latest album “The Life of a Showgirl.” The school formerly had a Taylor Swift Fan Club and they reconvened last Friday afternoon in the school’s gymnasium to celebrate the release of the new album. Dancing, crafts, a photo booth and more kept the young “Swifties” busy during the afternoon. They gathered for a group photo before embarking on some of the day’s activities.
Author Maureen Aitken performed a workshop on flash fiction late last month at the River Bookshop in Amherstburg. Aitken, who now lives in Minneapolis, also did a reading from her book “The Patron Saint of Lost Girls.”
RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU
WETRA hosts fourth annual “Fall Fair”
By Ron Giofu
A local non-profit organization opened its doors on the weekend and the public had a good time learning what they have to offer.
The Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) held its fourth annual Fall Fair Oct. 5 with it an opportunity to showcase the agency, what they do and raise some funds as well.
Event co-ordinator Debbie Richards said proceeds will benefit WETRA’s programming. “Normally we have about 1,000 people or so. I’m hoping we get at least 800,” said Richards.
Executive director Becky Mills said they have about 120 children riders plus other programs, including an occupational therapy program.
“We’re really amping up our off-set visits to seniors homes and the Hospice,” said Mills. “We’ve received additional elementary school field trips on a regular basis.”
There are also unmounted therapy sessions, Mills added, where people can get experience working one-onone with horses. There are also neurodiversity programs at WETRA.
“Our community is really proud of what we’re doing here,” said Mills.
Operating over 50 years is “because our community believes in us.”
Approximately 50 volunteers helped at the Fall Fair with the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society and the Windsor-Essex Corvette Club assisting. The Rotary Club of Harrow also grilled hot dogs and hamburgers.
The Border City Barkers were among the another attractions. There were hayrides and a chance to visit horses and other animals.
Mills said the focus is building up the programming.
Tony Ross of Amherstburg pets one of the horses at WETRA’s Fall Fair held last Sunday in McGregor.
Emily Beauchamp of Amherstburg was one of the 64 vendors at WETRA’s Fall Fair last Sunday.
Kicks & Giggles
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
WORD SCRAMBLE
Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to dog adoption.
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
This week is all about fresh starts, Aries. The stars are aligning to give you the green light on a new project or personal goal. Don’t hesitate to jump on the first step.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
Focus on building a solid foundation this week, Taurus. Whether it’s in your career or personal life, your hard work and persistence will pay off in a big way.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Your social calendar is buzzing, Gemini. This week you could be a magnet for interesting conversations and new ideas. Don’t be afraid to network and share your thoughts.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Expect a breakthrough in your personal life, Cancer. You’ll gain a new sense of clarity and emotional understanding, allowing you to move forward with confidence.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Your leadership skills are on full display, Leo. This week you’ll be called upon to inspire and guide others. Don’t be shy about stepping into the spotlight at work or in a group setting.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
This is a week for practical improvements, Virgo. Take a look at your daily routines and find small ways that you can be more efficient. Organize your space or adopt a new health habit.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Harmony in your relationships is a prominent theme this week, Libra. Your diplomatic nature will help you resolve any lingering conflicts and form deeper connections.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
A powerful transformation might be underway, Scorpio. You might feel an urge to dig deeper and uncover hidden truths, both in yourself and in your life. Embrace the process of growth.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Expand your horizons this week, Sagittarius. You’ll feel a strong pull to learn something new, whether it is a skill or a different language. Your optimistic outlook is contagious.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Your hard work is about to pay off, Capricorn. This week you may see progress on a longterm professional goal. Some well-deserved recognition may be on the horizon.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
This week you could find joy and inspiration by connecting with like-minded people, Aquarius. A collaborative project or a group event will be particularly successful.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, dedicate some time this week to new pursuits. You may be itching to try something new and this is the time to sign up for a class or get out and meet new people.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
OCTOBER 5 Travis Kelce, Athlete (36)
OCTOBER 6 - Brett Gelman, Actor (49)
OCTOBER 7 - Lewis Capaldi, Singer (29)
OCTOBER 8 - Bruno Mars, Singer (40)
OCTOBER 9 - Tony Shalhoub, Actor (72)
OCTOBER 10 - Dan Stevens, Actor (43)
OCTOBER 11 - Cardi B, Rapper (33)
New book written on the former Great Lakes Jr. C Hockey League
By Ron Giofu
A new book now chronicles the history of the former Great Lakes Jr. C Hockey League.
“A League to Remember” takes a nostalgic look back at the former hockey league, with the league having existed from 1974-2016. In 2016, teams that were playing in the Great Lakes Jr. C league became the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s Stobbs Division.
Authored by Fred Groves, the book takes a look at teams that are still going – such as the Amherstburg Admirals – and others that are not – such as the Amherstburg Vikings.
Groves, also a freelance reporter/ photographer with the River Town
Times, held a book launch as part of “A Salute to Essex Hockey,” a display of classic hockey memorabilia held in partnership with the Essex & Community Historical Research Society.
While current teams are in the book, he noted Tilbury, Petrolia, Clearwater, Leamington, Kingsville and others also had teams with the latter, the Kingsville Comets, having moved to Amherstburg in 2013 to become the Admirals.
Petrolia has a team once again, but the original Petrolia Jets were in the Great Lakes Jr. C Hockey League. The Flyers play in the PJHL’s Yeck Division.
Teams in the league were from Essex County, Chatham-Kent and Lambton County.
“It took me three years,” he said, of writing the 200-page book.
“A League to Remember” was inspired by an exhibition organized by Joe Garon during the Essex 73’s 50th anniversary season. Garon, who is also an Essex town councillor, brought forth the history of the 73’s franchise and Groves decided to take a look back at the entire league.
“My son and I were amazed about the hockey history in this league,” he said.
“That inspired me to write the book.” Interviews with former players, research into municipal archives of regional communities and a look at old newspaper articles helped fill in the blanks on history of teams. He credited Mark McMath and Chris Glenwright for giving background on some of the Amherstburg history.
Continued on Page 13
We believe every holiday table should be filled with joy, not frustration from missed conversations
LaSalle, Essex, Windsor & Amherstburg
Fred Groves (right) has authored “A League to Remember,” a look back at the former Great Lakes Jr. C Hockey League. At left is book editor Savannah Hayes. It was launched last Saturday at “A Salute to Essex Hockey” in Essex.
Admirals fall short in a pair of weekend road games
By Fred Groves
It was a tough weekend for the Amherstburg Admirals as they lost a pair of road games.
In Dresden last Friday night, they came up short 6-3 to the host Kings and were back on the road the next night in Mooretown, where they were defeated 6-4. The two losses now have the Admirals at 3-3 in the West Stobbs Division.
Against the Kings, Stefan Djordjevic scored twice with the other coming from captain Drew Booker. It was 1-1 after the first period before Dresden went up 3-2 after 40 minutes. Jack Thomas made 31 saves on the night for the visitors.
Saturday in Mooretown, a penalty-filled affair saw the hosts battle hard all night and it was the Flags’ Carson Crawford with his third of the evening with 1:05 left to go that broke a 4-4 stalemate.
Brody Gillis fired in a pair for the visiting Admirals with Djordjevic getting one and defenceman Cameron Robinet notching his first of the season. In goal, rookie
Landon Dimitroff made 41 saves. Both sides had a pair of powerplay goals.
“Our powerplay is starting to turn it on for sure,” said Amherstburg head coach Zack Gervais.
This game took 2.5 hours to play and saw misconducts from both teams. There was a total of 84 minutes in penalties.
“We lead the league in penalty minutes. You can’t win
hockey games like that, it’s undisciplined. We’ve had a meeting with our team leaders. When we are sitting in the box, how are you going to win? There are going to be some ramifications,” commented Gervais.
After six games, the Admirals have compiled 167 minutes in the penalty box which averages out to nearly 28 per game.
Amherstburg will have a couple of practices this week to prepare for another weekend of back-to-back games. They travel to Lakeshore Friday night to take on the Canadiens and then the next night puck drop in Amherstburg at the Libro Centre is 7:30 p.m. against the Wheatley Sharks.
“Lakeshore will be a good test. It’s never easy going there,” said Gervais.
SLAPSHOTS - The Admirals will play a home game in Harrow Thursday, October 18 against Walpole Island… After six games, Gillis and Stefan Djordjevic lead in points with nine each… Gervais said goalie Jack Thomas could be out for a game or two with a suspension from Saturday night’s game in Mooretown.
Wolves football team records third straight shutout victory
By Ron Giofu
The North Star Wolves have won their first three games, all by shutout.
The Wolves defeated the Massey Mustangs 58-0 last Friday evening at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg, with that win not only giving North Star a 3-0 record in WECSSAA Tier 2 but also showing that the Wolves have scored 140 points this season and allowed none.
Massey dropped to 0-3 with the loss.
The Wolves took control of the game early and led 28-0 after one quarter. A 68-yard touchdown run by Ashton Fevreau was called back on a holding penalty on the game’s first play from scrimmage but, two plays later, he found the endzone anyway on a 64-yard run. Shortly after, Noah Abreu took a Massey punt to the Mustangs five yard line then was handed the ball on the next
offensive play and scored a touchdown to give the Wolves a 14-0 advantage.
The Wolves went up 21-0 on a drive that started thanks to a Steven Craner fumble recovery. That drive ended on a 13-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Ryan Reid to Abreu.
Fevreau scored on a 55-yard punt return late in the first quarter.
Grayson Wilson gave North Star a 35-0 lead in the second quarter thanks to a 15-yard touchdown run. Fevreau zig-zagged his way to the endzone later in the second quarter on a 32-yard touchdown run to give North Star a 42-0 halftime advantage.
Tyree Richardson returned an interception for a touchdown roughly 54 yards in the third quarter and Massey conceded a safety later in the quarter.
The only scoring in the fourth quarter was a four-yard touchdown run by Trentin Harris-Price.
Steven Craner and Austin Mann kicked the conversions with Mann taking over after Craner sustained an injury.
“Our offense played great, our defense hasn’t let up a point this season,” said Abreu. “I think we’re looking like the best team in Tier 2.”
Abreu added they ran the ball like they have in the first two games and executed their game plan.
While they expect to win every game they play, Abreu added they “treat every quarter like it’s 0-0.”
The Wolves play their only road game this season this Thursday (Oct. 9) at 5:30 p.m. at Tecumseh Vista Academy. Abreu expects that to be a tougher game.
“We expect a dogfight with Vista,” he said.
Defensive co-ordinator Rusty Parsons said they have a great group of players on the defensive side of the ball.
“They all play as a unit,” he said. “That definitely helps.”
If the Wolves get a lead early, Parsons added their strong defense can hold off opponents.
Parsons also expects a bigger challenge from Tecumseh Vista Academy but expects North Star to play the same style of defense against the Vortex.
After the Tecumseh Vista game, the Wolves’ next home game at the Libro Centre is Oct. 24 at 5:30 p.m. against the Kennedy Clippers.
Admirals head coach Zack Gervais hopes to see his team be more disciplined this upcoming weekend.
North Star’s Tyree Richardson (54, centre) heads to the end zone after intercepting a third quarter pass against the Massey Mustangs last Friday night at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. North Star won the WECSSAA Tier 2 football game by a 58-0 final score.
North Star defensive players swarm the Massey ball carrier last Friday night. The Wolves picked up their third straight shutout by beating the Mustangs 58-0.
Local Business Directory
Community Calendar
MONDAY, OCTOBER 13
THANKSGIVING DINNER; Held at Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S. starting at 12 noon. ABC Technologies has helped with the purchase of 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, seven large pumpkin pies. Free to attend, eat-in or take-out. For info, call 519-736-9140.
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
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 519-736-7636 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 226-7592565.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
AMHERSTBURG FIGHTS CANCER; Fundraiser being held at AMA Sportsmen’s Association, 468 Lowes Side Road, Amherstburg. Presented by Norm Mickle – 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, cash bar, 50/50 draw and raffle prizes. Runs 4-9 p.m. Contact Mickle at 519-816-7189 for tickets. Pick
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-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; 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. 519-726-5869
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.
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 Thanksgiving message Oct. 12 and 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.
Groves to conduct book signing prior to
Continued from Page
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.
18 Admirals home game
up tickets at Carol’s Unisex Hair Design (corner of Murray St. and Bathurst St.) or Musicland (59 Richmond St.).
GOLDEN
CLASSIFIEDS
ANNOUNCEMENTS from $25 +tax WORD ADS from $15 +tax
CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com to book your spot!
RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS
WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation & construction experience, I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly, and with pride. Locally owned & operated. Fully insured and references available upon request. www.renovisions.ca Steve 519-300-0961
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.
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
FOR RENT
2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for Rent in Amherstburg, includes utilities $1,875. Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex on Queen Street in quiet neighbourhood. One block from the Detroit River within a short walking distance to town. Carpet and ceramic tile throughout. Modern open-concept kitchen with island for 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. $1,875 monthly, includes: central forced-air heating and cooling, natural gas, electricity, water, and sewer. Minimum 1-year lease. Apply with income verification. First and last month’s rent required. By appointment only, call 519736-4473 between 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a detailed message.
Please Recycle
YARD SALE
MOVING YARD SALE
21 Willow Dr., McGregor. Oct 11 & 12 from 8a-4p. Furniture, generators, knick-knacks, etc.
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 519-995-6975 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
FOR SALE
QUEEN SOFA BED (bed never used). Covered in soft mid tone grey fabric. Also foam to place under mattress. From Teppermans. Paid $899 asking $450. Please call (519)713-9292
POWER WASHING & PEST CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Making your home look new again. 519-7362448.
Thank You!
Barbara Lenson Robinson and all her family would like to convey our sincere thanks and appreciation to all those who attended and contributed to her open house at Seasons on Septemeber 14th. for her 100th birthday celebration. And Many thanks to Seasons Retirement Home for the lovely party on her actual birthday on Tuesday, September 16th. Special Thanks to Mayor Prue for his presence and lovely speech, and to Ron Giofu for the great picture and write-up in the River Town Times. Lastly, thanks to Ward Yorke for the great pictures.
October 8, 1960
With all our love on this special occasion, Cathy and Ken, Laura, Jim and Bonnie, Marcia and Lindsay, your grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Two local boxers do well at B.C. Silver Gloves competition
By Ron Giofu
A pair of boxers with the Fighting Island Boxing Club (FIBC) headed west and both learned from their experiences.
National champion Curtis Realba and Dawson Woltz Raby both headed to Chilliwack, British Columbia late last month and while they had different results, both were happy for the experience and the learning opportunities. They competed at the B.C. Silver Gloves tournament, one that FIBC owner/coach Joe LeBlanc said is open to anyone.
“It’s a big tournament,” said LeBlanc.
Realba fought the bronze medalist from the Canadian national championship twice and won both times while in British Columbia.
“I was pretty confident,” said Realba. “I knew I did the work.”
Realba added “my angles felt pretty good going into the fight” and that his body shots felt pretty sharp.
Nate DiPasquale, who helped coach the fighters with Bob Bondy while in Chilliwack, said Realba had to cut weight going into the 48 kg division fight.
“That was another obstacle he had to overcome,” said DiPasquale.
Woltz Raby said it was a fun experience in British Columbia, though he lost a split decision to the province’s provincial champion.
“It was really clear to me coming out of the fight what I need to do to win,” he said. “Once I get that down, I’ll be better.”
Improving his punch volume and being more aggressive are traits that Woltz Raby wants to work on. He competes in the 75 kg weight class. He added he promised his coaches during the fight to be more aggressive and tried to keep that promise, particularly in the third round where DiPasquale said Woltz Raby almost forced a stoppage.
Realba and Woltz Raby will be fighting in the provincial championships in Windsor later this month. Realba is expected to box the national silver medalist Grayson O’Conner once again, as he also fought him at “Battle in the Burg” at Shooters Roadhouse in early September.
“I’m looking forward to it,” Woltz Raby. “I feel I have unfinished business to do.”
DiPasquale said the Chilliwack trip was a good one overall. He added he was pleased with how the boxers approached it.
“We were there to conduct business,” he said. “We looked at it like we were going on a business trip. They knew what the trip was for.”
CKBG aiding cancer foundation through marathon
By Ron Giofu
The Detroit Free Press Marathon is Oct. 19 and there will be Amherstburg representation.
Among the local runners and walkers will be a team from 107.9 FM CKBG “The Burg” and the team this year has River Town Times involvement. Representing the FM station will be owner Greg Adler, Deanna Piazza, Terence Morris and community member Rob Ferguson and they will be joined by River Town Times co-owner and sales representative Laura D’Alessandro. Piazza said the station is calling it “Marathon to
Marathon,” as they had the “Marty Marathon” in early September in memory of station founder Marty Adler, Greg’s father, who passed away from cancer.
The team in the Detroit Free Press Marathon is raising money for the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation.
Piazza said they are accepting cash donations as well as online donations. People can check www.ckbg. ca for more information on how to donate.
It is the station’s second year taking part, with last year’s efforts raising just shy of $4,000. This year’s goal is $10,000.
The public can relate to the fundraiser, Piazza said, as everyone is touched by cancer in some way as either a loved one died of the disease, someone they know is still battling or they have the disease themselves.
The run/walk by the station is helping those battling cancer, but honouring those who lost the battle as well.
“Everyone should be trying to do their part,” said Adler. “We’re all touched by it. Someone has to do something. Everyone has to do their bit.”
Adler stated the station wants to do the fundraiser every year. They encourage people to help out, noting every dollar makes a difference.
“These fundraisers we do or that anyone does need a lot of support because when you start to get momentum and traction, it encourages others,” said Adler. “The more we can get, it grows momentum and it starts a ripple effect. I think that’s something people don’t think about. We want to inspire others.”
D’Alessandro added: “Joining together with the radio station in bringing awareness and raising funds for the Windsor Cancer Care Foundation and getting to participate in this amazing race is a wonderful opportunity. I lost my mom in 2012, to cancer and I am thankful for this opportunity to honour her legacy, Mr. Adler’s and all those who have been impacted.”
Of Amherstburg. Passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 1, 2025, at the age of 93.
Reunited with his beloved late wife Dorothy of 72 years. Cherished father of Richard & Janice, Judy & John Palesh, Cindy & Darcy Kaput, Cheryl & Tom Allen, Elizabeth & Jeff Harris. Dear son of the late Jacob & Anna (nee Bondy) Lucier. Loving Pipi of Richard Jr. & Angie (Tennessee), Denine (Manitoulin Island), Julie, Frank & Lynn Anne Imeson (Kitchener), the late Brian (2015) & Andrea, the late Sandra Chernawski (1982), and Kyle Huver. Great grandfather of eleven and Great-great grandfather of ten. Predeceased by his dear siblings Hector (2022) (Delores), Albert (2018) (Pauline), Joseph (2024) (Giselle), Lawrence (2019) (Patricia), Donald (2023) (Marnie) and Jeannette (2021)(Leonard). He will be missed by his two surviving siblings Alfred (Donna) and Ernest (Jeannette). Much loved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Leo was a Blue Jays fan, had a passion for wood working, loved travelling and landed in Burks Falls. He had a varied career in construction and home building.
Thank you to Dr. Bill Pignanelli, Dr. DeMarco (Met Hospital), St. Elizabeth Health Care and Hospice in supporting our father to remain home surrounded by his family, and a special thanks to Hailey.
If you so desire donations to the Charity of your choice would be appreciated.
Visiting will be held on Monday October 6, 2025, from 3- 7pm at Families First, Amherstburg (585 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, ON 519-969-5841). Cremation will follow and on Thursday, October 9, 2025, everyone is invited to meet directly at St. John The Baptist Church,
for
at 10:30 am.
Two fighters from Amherstburg’s Fighting Island Boxing Club went to Chilliwack, British Columbia late last month for the B.C. Silver Gloves tournament. Dawson Woltz-Raby (left) and Curtis Realba (centre) were in action. Coach Nate DiPasquale is at right. Coach Bob Bondy is not pictured.
107.9 FM The Burg is entering a team into the Detroit Free Press Marathon Oct. 19 and it will have some participation from the River Town Times as well. Co-owner/sales representative Laura D’Alessandro (left) will join Deanna Piazza and Greg Adler to cover legs of the race. Terence Morris and Rob Ferguson are also part of the CKBG team.
OCTOBER
Co-An Park Advisory Committee Mtg Co-An Park 5pm
Monday, October 13th Garbage and Yard Waste (South) will be picked up today
Get active at the Libro with ADrop-In ctivities Skating for all ages, Yoga (All abilities) and Turf Tots
amherstburg.ca/beactive
Beginner Skating 4-5pm $4/person $12/Family of 5 October 19-25 is Local Government Week! Register for Aphasia Friendly World Training aphasiafriendly canada
