River Town Times - May 15, 2024

Plant Sale braves weather

Noise bylaw exemption granted, neighbours voice concerns

By Ron Giofu

A noise bylaw exemption and waiver of fees was granted for Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 but it was the noise issue in particular that has neighbours concerned.

The issue of outside entertainment and the volume thereof was the subject of three delegations before Amherstburg town council Monday night, and while council agreed to the exemption, council members did urge all parties to work together on the ongoing issue. The Legion was granted a noise exemption to allow music Friday and Saturday nights from

6-10 p.m. and Sundays from 2-6 p.m.

Gary Wellman, joined by his wife Carmelina, appeared before council with Gary noting they have appeared before on the matter. Wellman believed there is “excessive noise” coming from the Dalhousie St. branch’s patio. Noting noise exemptions have been granted in previous years, Wellman believed there was a “corresponding obligation” not to abuse it if there are inconvenience to others.

“It’s not every performance, but it’s the majority of the performances,” said Wellman. “The fact they can perform

without excessive noise on occasion, based on the bands they have chosen to play there or the volume they have the bands play at, says to me they can control excessive noise from their patio but for some reason they don’t seem to be able to or want to or be able to control the bands to do that.”

Wellman recalled an acoustical engineer was hired by the town during the last term of town council, and said that person “was shocked at the volume of noise that is received at our point of reception.” He added town council tried to place a limit on volume, which he said

exceeded 100 decibels. Wellman said the engineer stated that exceeded the decibel level under the flight path near Toronto’s Pearson Airport.

“We have had this going on for years. The thought of expanding it to three days from two days just adds more aggravation to what we’re experiencing,” said Wellman.

A limitation to decibel levels was subject of a presentation to council by administration, with Wellman recalling it not being enforced due to a lack of equipment and training, plus additional man hours.

Continued on Page 13

cool temperatures and rain at points throughout the day, volunteers

AFMHS president Janice Emery said members

Garden Tour.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Contraventions found, other complaints dismissed by Ombudsman

By Ron Giofu

The latest Ombudsman Ontario report has given the Town of Amherstburg mixed results in its latest investigation into complaints surrounding open meeting rules.

The report issued by Ombudsman Paul Dubé stated in his report that town council contravened section 239(4)(a) of the Municipal Act regarding meetings Aug. 8, 2022, Feb. 13, 2023 and March 27, 2023 “by failing to provide sufficient information about some general topics of discussion in its resolutions to proceed into closed session.”

The town was found not to have contravened the Municipal Act after investigations into Sept. 8, 2022, Nov. 29-30, 2022, and Feb. 14, 2023 meetings.

On the issue of the Aug. 8, 2022 meeting, council resolved to move into closed session at 4:08 p.m. with Dubé stating the complaint alleged that parts of the resolution related to a “labour relations/employee negotiations matter” didn’t provide sufficient information about the matter to be discussed in closed session.

Section 239(4)(a) of the Municipal Act “requires a council, local board or committee to state by resolution in open session that a closed meeting will be held, and the general nature of the matter to be considered at the closed meeting,” Dubé stated in his report. He added that, based on a court case involving Kingston, “municipalities are required to add a ‘level of informative detail’ to the resolution to close a session to the public and I have previously recommended

that councils provide more substantive detail in resolutions authorizing closed sessions.”

“In this case, council merely identified the open meeting exception it was relying on. Based on my review, I find council could have provided additional information without undermining its reason for going into closed session,” the report states. “For example, council could have identified that it was discussing a management staff salary review.”

Regarding the Feb. 13, 2023 meeting, the complaint alleged that the resolution council passed didn’t provide sufficient information about the topic “Information Regarding a Proposed Disposition of Land” that was discussed in-camera.

“In closed session, council discussed leasing space on a municipal infrastructure asset to a local broadcasting corporation. After returning to open session, council reported out from the closed

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session and passed a resolution to authorize entering into a licence of occupation agreement with the corporation,” the report stated. “The Clerk informed my Office that at the time of the meeting, the Town was in sensitive negotiations with other leaseholders regarding the same municipal infrastructure asset. We were told that the nature and location of the infrastructure asset and the Town’s geography prevented further information from being provided in the resolution without potentially affecting the Town’s ongoing negotiations. However, during a previous open meeting, council had received and discussed a staff report related to this matter. The previous discussion, report, and resulting resolution identified the broadcasting corporation, the municipal infrastructure asset, and the potential for negotiating an agreement that would return to council.”

Dubé found council only identified it would be discussing information regarding a proposed disposition of land.

“My Office has previously noted that when council is relying on the ‘acquisition or disposition of land’ exception, there is no general requirement to provide the public with the address of the property to be discussed, and that doing so may undermine the reason for having the discussion in private. However, situations where additional information cannot be provided are a rarity,” he wrote.

Dubé added: “In this case, council had discussed this lease proposal and related report in a previous open session. This same information could have been provided in the resolution without undermining the reason for going into closed session. For example, council could have identified that it was going to discuss a matter related to the specific broadcasting corporation or to leasing space on the particular municipal infrastructure asset.”

There were four items on the in-camera agenda of March 27, 2023, with the complaint alleging the resolution did not provide sufficient information to be discussed in closed session. Matters included an update on a matter before an administrative tribunal, two instances regarding the proposed or pending disposition of land, and striking committee information.

In three of the four cases, Dubé ruled “this portion of the resolution failed to sufficiently describe the matter to be discussed in closed session, and contravened section 239(4)(a) of the Act.”

Regarding the property disposition matters, the Ombudsman believed the

town could have provided additional information without undermining its reason for going in closed session.”

On the issue of the tribunal, Dubé ruled the matter of a tribunal proceeding was public knowledge and council had previously discussed the planning matter in open session.

“I find that council could have provided additional information for its portion of its resolution without undermining its reason for going into closed session,” he said.

Pertaining to the striking committee matter, Dubé stated the town did provide sufficient information on the agenda item.

Dubé said his review found the town did not contravene the Municipal Act regarding a Sept. 8, 2022 gathering by the Accessibility Advisory Committee at a Transit Windsor facility as it “did not materially advance the committee’s business or decision-making and was not a meeting subject to open meeting rules.”

The report stated five committee members and then-Mayor Aldo DiCarlo met at the Transit Windsor operations centre at 10:30 a.m. A transit official pulled a bus into the parking lot where committee members asked the official about how the bus worked and how it accommodated bicycles. Committee members were shown the ramp and were given a demonstration on that as well as how mobility device users are accommodated. He said the gathering was characterized to his office as an “informal question-and-answer period.”

Dubé added town council had already made the decision to implement transit service and the committee hadn’t been asked to advise council on any given proposal. He said that explanation was corroborated by previous council minutes and the Sept. 22, 2022 committee meeting recording and minutes “which indicate that there was no follow up discussion about providing advice to council about matters arising from the bus tour.”

Complaints over Nov. 22 and Nov. 29, 2022 meetings were investigated and found to have not violated the Municipal Act “as the public notice identified an in-person meeting location and the public was able to attend in person.”

The report stated that the current council had just been inaugurated and held special meetings to receive training on municipal operations. Dubé said the complaint alleged the meetings weren’t live streamed or open to the public. He said following his Office’s review of the town calendar, agendas and former procedural bylaw, he determined “these meetings were not improperly closed to the public.”

Dubé recommended the town’s website should say whether particular meetings will be livestreamed even when the public is permitted inside. He added his office was told meeting agendas were generated using software and templates originally created during the COVID-19 pandemic when meetings were only held electronically with the clerk’s office having identified that issue and reviewing software settings to resolve it.

The Ontario Ombudsman investigated several meetings of Amherstburg town council and found some contraventions. The town was cleared in other complaints as well.

Sexual assault investigation leads to numerous charges

A 70-year-old man has been arrested after an investigation into an alleged sexual assault of a minor.

The Windsor Police Service stated Saturday that officers have arrested a 70-year-old man in connection to the investigation.

Police say that earlier this month, the Windsor Police ServiceAmherstburg Detachment launched an investigation after receiving a

complaint of a historical sexual assault.

Through investigation, police allege that officers learned that a 12-year-old victim had been assaulted by an adult male relative over a four-year period.

As a result of the investigation, a 70-year-old man was arrested in Amherstburg last Thursday (May 9).

The suspect, whose name can’t be released to protect the identity of the victim, is facing numerous charges. They include three counts of sexual assault, three counts of sexual interference, three counts of invitation to sexual touching, two counts of incest, assault and extortion.

If the community knows someone or is someone that is an affected person in need of support, they are encouraged call Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-7232711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. 4879.

Three suspects charged with child pornography offenses

Three people face charges after an investigation into numerous locations, including Amherstburg, related to child pornography accusations.

As part of “Project Aquatic,” the Windsor Police Service and ChathamKent Police Service state they have arrested and charged three individuals with child pornography-related offences.

Between Feb. 26-March 1, Windsor Police partnered with Chatham-Kent Police to execute four search warrants in five locations across Windsor, Amherstburg, and Chatham. As a result, police say 23 electronic devices were seized and 15 charges were laid. Of those charges, 11 were laid by Windsor Police and four by Chatham-Kent Police.

“Child sexual exploitation is a terrible crime that can have lifelong impacts on victims,” said Windsor Police Inspector Andrew Randall.

Windsor police said last Wednesday that “Project Aquatic” is part of the OPP-led Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy, involving 27 police

services across Ontario. Police add that in the months leading up to the operation, each agency developed its own targets, in response to reports made through www. cybertip.ca, and file sharing services, and executed search warrants during the takedown week.

Across Ontario, this year’s operation yielded 348 charges against 64 people.

More information on Project Aquatic and the OPP’s Provincial Internet Child Exploitation Strategy are available from the OPP Newsroom at www.opp.ca.

Police add that people can learn more about how to keep children safe, visit the Canadian Centre for Child Protection’s website at http://protectchildren.ca/en/.

The public can report information related to child sexual exploitation at http://cybertip.ca.

If the community knows someone in need of support, they can call Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. 4879.

Plaza to receive patios for fast food outlets, more tenants revealed

By Ron Giofu

The three fast food outlets that are part of a commercial development at 527 Sandwich St. S. will be allowed to have patios.

In addition to the patio request being granted by town council, the identities of the two potential remaining restaurants were identified at a special planning meeting Monday evening.

Town planner Sarah French said the proponent, Dr. Maxwell Abraham, was seeking a zoning bylaw amendment to allow for the three fast food restaurants to have outdoor patios.

French noted the bylaw had stated no patios were allowed due to a clause in the bylaw where a lot line of the commercial area adjoins with a residential zone.

“At this time, (the patios) are not

permitted by the zoning bylaw because of the residential area to the rear,” she said.

No objections were filed to the application, she said.

French’s report noted the town’s Official Plan supports the use of drivethru restaurants on the subject lands.

A strip plaza is also being built at the site.

“The outdoor patios are proposed to be accessory to the drive-through restaurants. The proposed drivethrough lanes will be situated between the residential properties and the patios and additional landscaping has been proposed on the land between the drive- through lanes and the residential uses. Outdoor patios associated with fast food and drive-through restaurants are typically a passive use, as there is no table service or alcohol

being served. The patios are unlikely to cause an increased disturbance to the residential uses when compared to the drive-through lanes,” said French in her written report.

Councillor Don McArthur asked who the fast food tenants were, with Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne stating the town was not allowed to identify them but confirmed alcohol would not be served.

With Abraham joining the meeting virtually, McArthur asked if he could reveal the tenants.

“There’s a lot of interest in the community,” said McArthur.

“Tentatively, it’s a Taco Bell and Burger King,” responded Abraham.

A Starbucks restaurant had been previously identified as a tenant.

Abraham said the patios are important to establish more user-friendly

options including walking and cycling. Mayor Michael Prue voiced concern with traffic entering and exiting the property.

Prue said traffic can be heavy in that area, noting Tim Horton’s is next door with often long drive-thru lines.

Osborne said there was “significant review” of the application when it came to administration, noting manager of planning services Chris Aspila has a doctorate in traffic engineering and Aspila worked with the proponent on the “realigning of the entire property to provide for a less intrusive situation in relation to the drive-thrus” with a third-party engineer also signing off on the plan.

Aspila added he worked extensively with the applicant on the matter.

“My fears have been assuaged,” Prue responded.

Town council members respond to Ontario Ombudsman report

Continued from Page 2

“The Town also told my Office that it has implemented a back-up livestreaming option to ensure all council meetings are livestreamed going forward. The Town also indicated that it has implemented the best practice of recording all council meetings, as suggested by my Office in a May 2023 letter. I commend the Town for adopting these best practices and taking steps to enhance the accessibility and transparency of its meetings,” he added in the report.

The town did not contravene the Municipal Act Feb. 14, 2023, “as its training session did not come within the definition of a meeting, and was therefore not subject to open meeting rules,” Dubé’s report indicated.

The report said the 1 p.m. meeting that day featured an “external presenter” training council on municipal asset management. He found that town council “did not materially advance its business or decision-making and the training session did not satisfy the second requirement in the definition of a meeting.”

“Accordingly, council’s training session did not

satisfy the second requirement in the definition of ‘meeting,’” the report stated.

Councillor Don McArthur believed “there was a lot of grey here” in the report and asked for CAO Valerie Critchley’s feedback.

“It does somewhat target the actions of staff,” he said.

Critchley said there is a balance between putting enough in an agenda and motion to go in-camera versus protecting the interests of the town and what it is discussing.

“We look at it and do our best,” the CAO stated.

Critchley believed other municipalities have similar practices with Amherstburg putting in just as much if not more information. She said it is an “evolving” situation but the town tries to make itself better and will continue to do so.

Councillor Diane Pouget thanked the complainant and said she has noticed a change in how the town proceeds into closed session. She said when someone complains to the Ombudsman, it is usually done as a last resort.

“That keeps us on our toes,” she said of the

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

complaint. “I just feel this helps us to make sure we can always improve.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said he still has full faith in council and administration, but noted “any feedback from the Ombudsman should be taken seriously.”

“We’ll learn from our mistakes and move on,” he said.

Councillor Linden Crain said he agreed with McArthur that there was some grey area in the report. He believed the town will do what it can to be “completely transparent.”

Mayor Michael Prue noted there were contraventions, but also “kudos” to the town for “going over and above” the law in other instances.

“Running council meetings is a very difficult thing to do,” he said.

Many of the contraventions would not have occurred if a few words were added in each case.

“I think staff has learned those lessons and we have too,” said Prue. “We’ll add those two or three words. I don’t want people think we did anything wrong at all because we did not.”

Parent pressing for more pediatric care thankful for recent support

I would like to thank and share my appreciation for the paediatricians, family health teams and family physician who wrote letters of support for increasing paediatric care in local hospitals.

Caring for a child while being hours away from your other children, support systems and home is incredibly difficult on many different levels. The support of these physicians means everything. It validates our struggles

and demonstrates an awareness of just how much more is needed here.

So, on behalf of the families who make the roughly 425 monthly trips to London Health Sciences Centre for their children’s care, the roughly 6 per month

sent to the U.S. for emergency care and the roughly three per month sent to SickKids, thank you for your support.

—Kait Lowe Amherstburg

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please.

• We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We also reserve the right to edit for any libel or slander concerns.

• We reserve the right to not publish letters that we view inflammatory, inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific people, groups, religions, governments or ethnic organizations. Those rants are more suited to

social media.

• We will gladly print letters commending specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.

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

• Anonymous letters are not printed as we cannot verify their origin.

Helping hands

Integrity Tool & Mold, through its employee-led

“Integrity Cares” initiative, donated $750 each to three causes last week. Receiving $750 cheques were the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission (above), Project HOPE Windsor Essex (bottom left) and the Community Support Centre of Essex County (bottom right). Not pictured, but still receiving financial assistance, were the Ronald McDonald House of Southwestern Ontario.

“May Days” fundraiser being presented by Amherstburg Firefighters Association

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Fire Association (AFA) is doing its part to assist in helping with mental health supports.

The AFA is hosting a “May Days” fundraiser for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). AFA president Cameron Arksey said the organization has three sponsors thus far to help their campaign.

Sponsors are being sought to assist Amherstburg firefighters obtain training, known this month as “May Day” training, with the cost being $6 per firefighter per week.

Proceeds will be turned over to CMHA, said Arksey. Sponsors thus far include Team Rehab, Gibb Insurance and Deputy Chief Dan Monk, the latter making a personal donation.

Arksey said what is just as important, if not more, than the donations is to bring awareness to the issue of mental health. He said first responders often need support due

to what they see and deal with while on the job. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, Arksey pointed out.

“May Day” is a radio codeword to indicate there is an emergency in firefighting. It was adapted to the fundraiser, to reflect that first responders such as firefighters can suffer trauma after a call is dealt with.

The AFA is also busy helping to sponsor a team in the Windsor Ultimate Frisbee Team and they are trying to get support for its Amherstburg Fire Combat Team as they compete in the FireFit Championships and the F7 Festival – Firefighter Combat Challenge.

Arksey said they are getting support from the Professional Firefighters Association, the association representing full-time firefighters, to sponsor the Amherstburg youth division in the Ultimate Frisbee League.

Arksey also volunteered last week at McHappy Day. For more on that story, turn to Page 12.

For more information on the combat team, visit www. aburgfireassoc.ca/combat.

I would like to send out a heartfelt thank you to everyone, for all the gifts, flowers, food, cards, and condolences.

I would also like to thank those that helped and supported us and continue to help and support us through this journey. Tom left us knowing how much he was loved and respected.

There will be an open house to celebrate Tom’s life on Sunday, June 9th from 1-4pm at the A.M.A. Sportsmen’s Club, 468 Lowes Side Road, Amherstburg.

With sincere thanks, Marita

Amherstburg Firefighters Association president Cameron Arksey was one of the volunteers at last week’s “McHappy Day.”

Web series to be filmed in region, to focus on public perception of disabilities

By Ron Giofu

A new web series will not only feature area actors and crew members, but also aims to focus on what people with disabilities can accomplish.

The new series “(up)Staged” is a new comedy series currently in pre-production with principal photography set to begin in June. The series will be filmed in Windsor with some locations in Essex County. Social media and fundraising co-ordinator Rebecca S. Mickle, an Amherstburg resident said a Kickstarter campaign begins May 10 and runs for 30 days.

They are hoping to raise $400,000 through the Kickstarter campaign.

Mickle stated “(up)Staged” will employ over 50 local artists as both cast and crew.

“While (up)Staged is a comedy series it focuses on real issues,” she said. “Our showrunner, Michael K. Potter, a blind double amputee, intends to change the public’s perception of the disability community and what disabled people are capable of doing with their lives. “

The series comes from Windsor-based theatre company Post Productions with the company stating “(up)Staged” being its most ambitious project to-date.

“Post Productions was founded in 2016 with the intent of focusing on theatre first,” says Potter, “but we kept the word ‘theatre’ out of the name intentionally, because we’d always planned on expanding into other forms of art when the time was ready. In 2018 we produced and distributed music for the first time, which we did again in 2023 to raise money for Abode Respite Services. Now we’re branching out into what is essentially television production with a different cause in mind: making people aware that art is work and artists need to be paid for doing it.”

Potter is also executive producer.

Mickle said they are hoping not to totally rely on the Kickstarter campaign, as they are also encouraging people to sponsor with the company also pursuing grants.

Potter explains: “We need to recognize the potential

of the arts in Windsor-Essex, which is disproportionately immense for a region of this size. And to do that, we need to start thinking of and treating the arts in our region as an industry worth investing in and supporting with adequate infrastructure. Windsor has the potential to become a thriving economic hub for artists and a destination for arts tourism. Our long-term plan is to collaborate with organizations, businesses, and leaders of all sorts in the area to create that future, a future that will convince young artists that they don’t need to leave Windsor-Essex to build careers while simultaneously drawing in artists from elsewhere to live and work here. The economic potential, return on investment, of adequately supporting the arts has been widely studied and recognized across the globe but it begins, it must begin, with respecting artists and the work that they do.”

(up)Staged was created and written by Potter and Post Productions artistic director Fay Lynn with Joey Ouellette, artistic director of the Purple Theatre Company, in the summer of 2021.

“It’s going to be exciting. It’s a very large project,” said Mickle, who will also have a role in front of the camera as well.

Mickle and Lynn are the two people from Amherstburg in the show, with Lynn being a St. Thomas of Villanova

Secondary School graduate.

Potter plays a fictionalized version of himself in “(up)Staged”: a blind double-amputee who happens to manage a theatre company, direct and produce plays, and act.

“People with disabilities are generally invisible in all forms of art and entertainment,” Potter says. “They’re absent from the stories presented to the public unless a writer needs a cheap way to create an object of pity or inspiration. But disabled people are human subjects, not objects of pity. Pity doesn’t help anyone and it ignores what disabled people are capable of doing. The opposite, using disabled people for inspiration, is just as dehumanizing and offensive. It also ignores the fact that disabled people are human beings who are just trying to get through their day and live their lives without being burdened by the responsibility of inspiring people by being able to do basic things like, say, making cookies.”

Mickle said filming should run in both June and July, reshoots in August and be released in the fall.

“There’s a lot of amazing people who work in creating the project,” she said. “Everyone involved is from Windsor-Essex County. They wanted to keep it local and show how much talent Windsor-Essex has.”

There are approximately 12 people in the crew assisting with the production.

People can sign up now to follow the campaign so they’ll be alerted when it goes live by heading to this link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ mkpotter/upstaged.

The public will be able to purchase the web series for $25 and the company hopes to find a streaming service willing to carry it.

Those interested in learning more about (up)Staged are also encouraged to click on the project’s link tree, which will take them to all of its social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/upstagedseries. Detailed information about the project, including bios of all cast and crew members, can be found at the project’s website: www. upstagedseries.com. The first promotional video for the (up)Staged Kickstarter campaign can be found at https://youtu.be/_qQqiMa5y60.

&

PHOTO BY KEIRAN POTTER

A publicity photo for the upcoming web series “(Up)Staged” is seen here. Production starts in the region next month.

See Cremation Differently

Funeral

professionals offer expert guidance on cremation and personalized end-of-life

planning at upcoming Lunch & Learn seminar

With over a century of service to the Amherstburg community, James H. Sutton Funeral Home has long been woven into the fabric of life here, earning a heritage of trust that’s come from more than just providing excellent facilities and comprehensive ceremonies. What makes them truly exceptional is their benchmark team of funeral professionals, dedicated to helping families efficiently navigate through some vitally important and sometimes challenging end-of-life decisions. They help to simplify the process, and they do so with heartfelt compassion and empathy.

A career built on caring is a powerful calling embraced by the funeral home’s new manager, Andrew Pannitto Born and raised in Tecumseh, Pannitto started on his journey of public service in the Windsor-Essex region at age 16, and is deeply inspired by the role this respected funeral home plays in family life.

“Our doors are always open and we want people to feel welcome, call for a tour, ask questions. It’s all part of building ongoing relationships,” says Pannitto. “We want to take the time to listen, talk and really get to know you. Whether the need is immediate or you’re thinking about planning for the future, we serve you best by understanding where you’re coming from - your specific needs and wishes, your special memories.”

Responding to the fast-evolving cultural landscape of the region, James H. Sutton Funeral Home recognizes that the specific needs and wishes of local families have become more widely varied than ever before in recent years. It used to be that all final services were quite similar – a casket, traditional funeral and ground burial – but times are changing. While those classicallystyled arrangements are still the ideal choice for many families, the cremation alternative is on the rise.

“Today, people come to us with a lot of different questions about cremation,” says Pannitto. “It’s a deeply personal decision, so it’s natural to want to know the facts. We’re here to unveil the mysteries and debunk the myths. Becoming better informed is the only way you can be sure if cremation is the right choice for you.”

Seeing cremation differently

It’s a surprise to many when they discover the array of options cremation offers to memorialize and celebrate a loved one. Custom urns are created in every colour and style, and rather than kept at home, can be interred in-ground, in outdoor columbariums or indoor glass-front niches. With the help of a funeral professional, final ceremonies can be held at the funeral home, a place of worship, or another place of family significance, and are designed to be unique as the person they honour.

Today’s tributes can be intimate and casual, elegant and grand, indoors or outdoors, spiritual or secular. The onus is on ‘personalization’ to best honour background and beliefs, life’s journey, and your identity as an individual.

“Every life deserves to be remembered in a way that’s meaningful to them,” says Pannitto. “By working closely with the family, we create the perfect farewell for personality, culture, faith and budget. At James H. Sutton, there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all ceremony, and that’s true whether you choose burial or cremation.”

For example, a customized Time to RememberTM event is themed around a specific hobby or interest, and can include hands-on activities and custom cuisine, special presentations and take-home keepsakes. Alternatively, a meaningful Time of Reflection ceremony offers an intimate, private gathering held before the cremation.

Personalizing a final goodbye is not just a beautiful way to honour an irreplaceable life, it can foster a deeper sense of comfort, connection and healing for family. James H. Sutton Funeral Home’s professionals offer options, ideas and the know-how to make the planning experience easier and more enriching, whether you’re considering a loved one’s immediate need, or pre-arranging for yourself.

The benefits of planning ahead

While most adults have attended funerals, it’s a very different experience to find yourself in charge of making comprehensive arrangements. There are up to 87 decisions that need to be made when a death occurs, 54 of which can be made in advance – a helpful list offered free at James H. Sutton.

When families have this information up-front, they can make decisions that ensure wishes are respected, and loved ones won’t be faced with tough decisions and administrative tasks at a time of grief.

“Understanding the scope of options and details becomes simple with a little help. Guidance with compassion is what the James H. Sutton team has always been about,” says Pannitto. “We walk with you through every step of the planning process and provide free private consultations, educational literature and public seminars.”

Their next seminar is See Cremation Differently - Options, Myths and Questions, and is open to individuals and families, as well as healthcare workers and clergy who are often asked by patients and parishioners about cremation and end-of-life arrangements. “We’re hosting this event twice on June 12th to accommodate as many people as possible,” said Pannitto. “We hope you’ll join us.”

Wednesday, June 12 at 401 Sandwich Street South Lunch & Learn: 11:30am - 1pm

Evening Session: 6:30pm - 8pm

To reserve a seat, please RSVP Call: (519) 736-2134

Learn about your cremation options and the benefits of pre-planning. We will be debunking myths and answering your questions. Reservations recommended.

Wednesday, June 12th

James H. Sutton Funeral Home

401 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg

Lunch & Learn: 11:30am - 1:00pm

• complimentary lunch provided

Evening Session: 6:30pm - 8:00pm

• light refreshments

Limited seats available Call 519-736-2134 to RSVP today

H. Sutton

from James H. Sutton Funeral Home

Andrew Pannitto Funeral Home Manager

A personalized Celebration of Life display is thoughtfully designed to honour history, hobbies and personality

Local man wins nearly $160,000 in lottery

By RTT Staff

An Amherstburg man is almost $160,000 richer thanks to some good luck in the lottery.

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) announced last Thursday that Carl Gatt of Amherstburg “anted up and went ‘All in’ to win the Poker Lotto All In” jackpot worth $154,495.60. The draw was April 23.

The OLG added Gatt also won $5,000 on the instant portion of his Poker Lotto play, bringing his total winnings to $159,495.60.

Gatt, who works as an operations manager, is celebrating his first big win after playing the lottery twice a week for 25 years, the OLG added.

“I think I scared the poor kid behind me at the store!” he said with a laugh, recounting his winning experience while at the OLG Prize Centre in Toronto.

Gatt is married and a father of five and was quick to share the news of his win with his family.

The married father of five was quick to share the news of his win.

“I told my wife and she cried! Winning is a great feeling,” he said.

Gatt told the OLG he plans to take his wife to Paris to celebrate her 50th birthday.

Poker Lotto players can opt for “All In” for an additional $1 to take a chance on instantly winning a jackpot that starts at $10,000 and grows until it is won.

The winning ticket was purchased at the Simcoe Variety on Simcoe St. in Amherstburg.

For more information on the OLG and its lotteries, visit www.olg.ca.

ACS thanks volunteers “for making the magic happen”

By Ron Giofu

Volunteers were the guests of honour at a recent dinner presented by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS).

The recent dinner held at the AMA Sportsmen’s Association and had approximately 130 people in attendance.

ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo said the agency has roughly 105 volunteers spread over the numerous programs the non-profit agency offers with members of their families joining those who attended the recent appreciation dinner.

“Volunteers Make the Magic Happen” was the theme of the evening event. It was held during Volunteer Appreciation Week in Ontario.

ACS hired magician Craig Hinds for entertainment, with Hinds having also recently appeared at one of ACS’ “Feast with Friends” Thursday luncheons. Hinds mingled and did slight-of-hand card tricks followed by a trick where he appeared to cut the head off a volunteer and then a knife-throwing trick.

“It went really well,” said DiBartolomeo. “I think that volunteers are our unsung heroes. Sometimes they are the front persons of our agency that the clients meet first. It was so nice to honour our volunteers. We thank them all year round.”

Mayor Michael Prue was also on hand to offer greetings and thank the volunteers, DiBartolomeo pointed out.

Whether it be Meals on Wheels, bingos or Coats for Kids or one of the other programs offered through ACS, DiBartolomeo said the efforts of volunteers are greatly appreciated and many of the programs could not be offered without them.

“I think that there are about ten programs that we use volunteers for,” said DiBartolomeo.

“We’re always looking for volunteers,” she said.

There are times where volunteers filter in and out of the agency, with some leaving for various reasons

ranging from them moving or becoming ill to those who want to change their schedules.

Some are snowbirds and can’t volunteer all year round, she stated.

DiBartolomeo said they always try to accommodate volunteers and give them a schedule that best works with their personal appointments.

“We try to give volunteers the opportunity to work as much as they want,” said DiBartolomeo. “We work with them to fit their schedules.”

Amherstburg Community Services is grateful for whatever schedule the volunteers can work.

“I think it was a great night,” she said of the dinner. “It was a really nice night for me and my staff to give back to our volunteers.”

There are about ten paid staff at ACS with the rest of the people helping the agency being the volunteers.

“With a small agency like ours, we couldn’t imagine it without our volunteers,” said DiBartolomeo.

Anyone interested in volunteering or about learning about the services being offered can call ACS at 519-736-5471 or visit their website at www.amherstburg-cs.com.

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 10, 2024 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.

ANY PERSON seeking to attend meetings in-person should follow all public health guidance to ensure the safety of themselves and others.

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 6, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk at clerk@amherstburg.ca. Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

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

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS REZONING APPLICATION:

This rezoning application will affect approximately 8974 sq ft ± of land described as Plan 1, Part Lots 15 & 16, municipally known as 70 Murray Street (see map below). This Zoning Amendment, if approved, will rezone the subject lands from “Special Provision Commercial General (CG-4) Zone” to “Special Provision Commercial General (CG-19) Zone”. The parcel is designated General Commercial in the Town’s Official Plan. The applicant has removed an old structure from the rear yard and is proposing the construction of two 160 sq ft commercial structures to be located in the rear yard of the existing development to create an outdoor patio/gathering place. The proposed rezoning will allow for relief in rear yard setback to permit a 1.2 m rear yard setback from the required 7.5 m for the proposed 160 sq ft commercial structures. The proposed rezoning will also allow for relief in minimum building height to permit a building height of 2.4 m from the required 7 m minimum building height. All other existing CG-4 provisions are proposed to remain the same i.e. uses, parking requirements, setbacks, lot coverage etc.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at Town Hall located at 271 Sandwich Street South. Comments must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

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

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

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/17/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca. The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www. amherstburg.ca.

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/17/24) available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing visiting www.amherstburg.ca

The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca

For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/calendar.

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

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15th day of May, 2024. KEY MAP

OLG PHOTO

Carl Gatt of Amherstburg won $159,495.60 through playing the Poker Lotto “All In” lottery from the OLG

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Volunteers were all smiles at ACS’ recent volunteer appreciation dinner (above) while magician Craig Hinds performed his tricks and illusions for the large audience (right).

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 10, 2024 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.

ANY PERSON seeking to attend meetings in-person should follow all public health guidance to ensure the safety of themselves and others.

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than 4:00 pm on Thursday, June 6, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk at clerk@amherstburg.ca. Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

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

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS REZONING APPLICATION: This rezoning application will affect approximately 15,789.15 sq ft ± of land described as Plan 7, Part Lot 9 and Water Lot, municipally known as 24 Laird Avenue South (see map below).

This Zoning Amendment, if approved, will rezone the subject lands from “Special Provision Residential First Density (R1-8) Zone” to “Special Provision Residential First Density (R1-16) Zone”. The parcel is designated Low Density Residential in the Town’s Official Plan.

The applicant is proposing a small addition and total renovation of the existing accessory structure on the subject parcel to accommodate a Secondary Dwelling Unit (SDU). The purpose of the rezoning will be to grant permission for a SDU to be located within an existing accessory structure which is located in the front yard. The proposed rezoning will also allow for an increase in setback between the SDU and primary dwelling from the permitted 20 m to 48.7 m, an increase in building height from the permitted 5.5 m to 7.0 m and an increase in accessory structure lot coverage from the permitted 100 sq m to 107.5 sq m. The existing accessory structure is 6.46 m in height. All other existing R1-8 provisions are proposed to remain the same i.e. uses, setbacks, lot coverage etc.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for dropoff at Town Hall located at 271 Sandwich Street South. Comments must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

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

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

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/16/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca. The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca.

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 10, 2024 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, June 6, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca. Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

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

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS REZONING APPLICATION:

This rezoning application affects approximately 3.03 ha of land municipally known as 3320 Middle Side Road (County Road 10) (see map below). This rezoning, if approved, add an additional provision to the zoning of the subject lands noted above from the “Institutional (I) Zone” to “Special Provision Institutional -7 (I-7) Zone”. The lands are designated Open Space in the Town’s Official Plan.

The effect of the amendment will be to allow permanent use of 1 shipping container as outdoor storage at the existing Fire Station #2.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by Thursday, June 6, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

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

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

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/12/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www. amherstburg.ca

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/16/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca

For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/ calendar

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

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15th day of May, 2024.

For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/calendar

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT

STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING:

TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, June 10, 2024 commencing at 5:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, June 6, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca . Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

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

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS REZONING APPLICATION:

This rezoning application affects a portion of the approximately 5.82 ha of land municipally known as 496 through 532 Sandwich St. S (see map below).

This rezoning, if approved, add an additional provision to the zoning of the subject lands noted above as “Special Provision Institutional -1 (I-1) Zone”. The lands are designated General Commercial in the Town’s Official Plan. The effect of the amendment will be to allow the permanent use of shipping containers as outdoor storage at the existing municipal Infrastructure Services yard.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by Thursday, June 6, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

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

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

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/10/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca. The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www. amherstburg.ca.

For Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/ calendar

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

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

KEY MAP

The meeting will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15 h day of May 2024

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15th day of May, 2024. KEY MAP

Council and Committee Agendas and Meetings, visit amherstburg.ca/calend

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15th day of May, 2024

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

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

KEY MAP

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15th day of May, 2024. KEY MAP

DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 15th day of May, 2024. KEY MAP

Christopher

Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8

Telephone: (519) 736-5408

Fax No. (519) 736-9859

Website: www.amherstburg.ca

Christopher Aspila Manager, Planning Services

Town of Libro Centre

3295 Meloche Road

Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8

Telephone: (519) 736-5408

Town of Amherstburg

Libro Centre

Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website: www.amherstburg.ca

3295 Meloche Road

Amherstburg Ontar o N9V 2Y8

Christopher Aspila

Telephone: (519) 736-5408

Manager, Planning Services

Town of Amherstburg

Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website: www amherstburg ca

Libro Centre

3295 Meloche Road

Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8

Telephone: (519) 736-5408

Fax No. (519) 736-9859 Website: www.amherstburg.ca

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, a friend of has made steady progress and exhibited significant personal growth. Continue to support this person’s pursuits and act as a source of encouragement.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Your happiness can bring joy to many other people this week, Taurus. Spread all of your positivity among those people who can use it the most. You will reap rewards as well.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

The people around you may be behaving in interesting and unexpected ways, Gemini. You don’t know what to make of this just yet, so sit back and watch the show.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, it is challenging to keep up with all of the comings and goings of the people in your social circle. It may take a little while for you to reconnect.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Let others see a side of you that you don’t often share, Leo. It is alright to be vulnerable at times, and this vulnerability actually may appeal to some new people in your life.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Virgo, you have a tremendous amount of power at your disposal this week. You should use all of it wisely and not waste a drop. Others will be affected by your presence.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, expect to spot trouble on the horizon before other people around you. This gives you a head-start to take action and prepare yourself and others for what’s to come.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Pay careful attention to any and all financial transactions you make this week, Scorpio. You want to keep tabs on where your money is going and avoid as many mistakes as possible.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, a situation may arise this week in which you are expected to do more than you feel comfortable. Don’t let others bully you into action. Explain your hesitation carefully and respectfully.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

What is the point of power struggles if it alienates all of the people closest to you, Capricorn? Sometimes you must forego ego to maintain personal relationships and family harmony.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, try to interact this week with the people who may not necessarily agree with you or share your beliefs. It could be good to see things from different perspectives.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Positive energy is circling around you this week, Pisces. Those good vibes will put you in a mood to reach out to some people in your life who may have drifted away.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MAY 12 - Rami Malek, Actor (43)

MAY 13 - Robert Pattinson, Actor (38)

MAY 14 - Rob Gronkowski, Commentator (35)

MAY 15 - Stella Maxwell, Model (34)

MAY 16 - Janet Jackson, Singer (58)

MAY 17 - Derek Hough, Dancer (39)

MAY 18 - Tina Fey, Actress (54)

Stella’s Got Talent

Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School held its “Stella’s Got Talent” show last week with performances Wednesday and Thursday. Over 20 students demonstrated their talents in singing, dancing, piano playing, computer skills, guitar playing, whistling, abilities with a Rubik’s Cube and more!

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to laughter.

Wolves girls soccer team eliminated from WECSSAA playoffs

By Ron Giofu

The season is over for the North Star Wolves girls soccer team.

The 2024 soccer season concluded for North Star thanks to a 2-1 loss to the Riverside Stingers Monday afternoon in east Windsor. It was the quarterfinal game for the two teams.

The coaches expressed pride in how the team played and thanked the seniors for their leadership throughout the season.

The Wolves advanced to the quarterfinals at Riverside thanks to a gutsy effort in the preliminary round last week.

North Star, missing seven players thanks to a school field trip, took on the Essex Red Raiders in a preliminary round WECSSAA “AA” preliminary playoff match last Wednesday afternoon at the Libro Centre. The Wolves picked up a 1-0 victory thanks to a Julia Mailloux first half goal, which was scored on a penalty kick.

Essex had opportunities late in the game, but

North Star held off their opposition and picked up the victory.

The Wolves had several players playing out of their

usual positions, one of them being June Buchner, a centre/mid-fielder who was pressed into service as the goalkeeper.

“They pulled it out,” said North Star head coach Joe Ciliberto. “We battled through and won with a limited lineup.”

Ciliberto praised the work of assistant coaches Leanna DiGiovanni and Bianca Goncalves, as they are now coaches after being recent graduates.

It was the first playoff win for the girls soccer team in the two-year history of North Star High School.

“They were determined,” said Ciliberto. “They didn’t want to lose. They went out there and played hard. These girls did a great job.”

“They played great,” added Goncalves. “I’m very impressed.”

Ciliberto said in addition to missing players last Wednesday, they had players that were also battling through injuries.

North Star entered the playoffs with a 3-2-1 regular season record, the tie being against Essex one week before the playoff game.

North Star girls slo-pitch team picking up steam on the diamond

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves girls slo-pitch team were on the field twice over the past week.

The first game of the week was on the road in Essex last Tuesday afternoon. The Wolves evened their record at two wins and two losses with an 11-10 victory over the Red Raiders. Ava Mayrand was the hero with the gamewinning home run and two RBI’s on

the afternoon. Lily Mulder had a triple and a home run with Dallas Goyeau also having a double.

Also having RBI’s against the Red Raiders were Ashley Mongeau, Morgan Kelly, Madison Drouillard and Tyler Lamarche.

“It was a really solid game,” said Mayrand after the Essex game. “It was a back and forth game. There were a lot of really amazing hits for us.”

Mayrand said the Wolves have

bonded as a team and a progressing well as the season goes one. She felt she played well in the Essex game both in the field and at the plate.

“We have to work on our communication throughout the games,” she added.

North Star returned to their home diamond at Malden Centre Park Monday afternoon for a game versus the Sandwich Sabres. It was a make-up game from one that inclement weather

wiped out earlier in the season.

In the end, the Wolves lost the girls slo-pitch game by a final score of 20-5. North Star’s record is now 2-3.

The Wolves were back in action at home Tuesday after this edition of the River Town Times went to press. The opponents were the Leamington Lions.

The final game of the 2024 regular season is this Thursday (May 16) in Leamington against the Cardinal Carter Cougars.

Solid start for North Star Wolves boys baseball team

By Ron Giofu

It’s been a solid start for the North Star Wolves boys baseball team.

The Wolves were in action three times over the past week, the first of which was a home game at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg May 6. The Wolves went up against the Tecumseh Vista Academy Vortex and won 11-1.

The Wolves entered the game undefeated and remained that way, winning via the mercy rule.

Team captain Kyle Jones said it was a good game for North Star and that it was nice to have a strong start to the 2024 boys baseball season.

“We hit the ball well today,” said Jones.

The Wolves are looking strong this season, he added, and they hope to go deep in the playoffs once they get there.

“I think this team is ready for a run for the (WECSSAA) Tier 2 championship,” said Jones. “We’ve got some practices in and we have come together well. Everyone is getting a chance to play.”

The Wolves are having fun at the diamond, he added, and are looking for big things. Ethan Hill, one of the Wolves’ coaches, said this year’s team has players from all high school grade levels contributing.

“We have a good mix of seniors, intermediates and juniors,” he said. “Everyone works hard at practice. Most of them are returning players from last year.” Pitching and baserunning were also keys against Tecumseh Vista Academy, in addition to the offense, Hill added.

The Wolves undefeated streak ended at three games a day later, as they travelled to Kingsville but suffered a 13-6 loss to the Cavaliers. Sawyer Krokos had two hits and an RBI while Ashton Fevreau had two RBI’s and Jones one.

North Star was in action Monday afternoon with a home game versus Cardinal Carter. The result of that game was a 5-5 tie, which put the Wolves’ record at 3-1-1 on the season.

Remaining regular season games are today (May 15) at home versus Lajeunesse at 3 p.m. and May 22 in Essex at 4 p.m.

The North Star Wolves girls soccer team celebrates a first half goal against Essex by Julia Mailloux. North Star won 1-0.

North Star Wolves girls hockey team wraps up season with junior tournament

The North Star Wolves girls hockey team put a bow on the season recently by travelling down the 401 to London to play in the Junior Titan Tournament.

This one-day tournament featured mostly AAA schools so we knew going in our competition would be tough. We welcomed our new players Emily McGuire, Tyler Casey, Riley Martin, Mallory Gascoyne, Jaidyn Fox, & Mady Goodrich to the team. The team also had a couple of new rookie coaches, our graduating Grade 12s Hanna Coulson and Maddy Drouillard.

We started the day playing a strong Villanova team. (Yes, that’s right we travelled all the way to London to play them). The first part of the game we held our own but seemed to lose our focus and Villanova capitalized by dominating the rest of the game. The final score was 5-0. Grace DeThomasis played a strong game in goal, but we couldn’t get any offence generated.

Our second game was against St Mary’s from Hamilton. We had a much better start in this game leading in the first period at one point 2-1. Scoring our goals were Emily McGuire and June Buchner. Unfortunately, we could not carry that momentum through to the rest of the game. St. Mary’s rattled off seven or eight goals to put the game away. Mallory Gascoyne started her very first high school game and made several great saves. It was a tough game to play in, but she did not quit on herself or her team and that’s all that is important in a game like this.

]Our last game was against a very strong London Aquinas team. We played a much better game but just couldn’t match the talent level of the London team. We lost 6-0 but played hard right to the very end. Mallory and Grace shared the netminding in this game. Despite the results of this tournament the future of this team is very bright. We are looking forward to next season to see how they progress.

We would like to thank our amazing teacher sponsors for attending the tournament and for all their hard work throughout the year. We are very lucky to have them. Also, thanks to the parents and grandparents who took the time to come out and cheer on the team.

Have a great summer, until then see you around the rink.

—Submitted by North Star coach Dan Pettypiece

ASC holds annual assessment day

By Ron Giofu

Soccer players were busy getting their skills looked over recently at the Libro Centre.

With the Amherstburg Soccer Club (ASC) in the midst of registration, board members and coaches were busy scouting the incoming house league talent that has already signed up for the 2024 season. The ASC’s annual assessment day was held lon the Libro Centre’s turf field.

“We think we’ve got it down pretty good,” said ASC president Nick Cacciato, pointing out it was the third year for assessment day. “It ran pretty smoothly.”

Cacciato explained the day was for house league players to have their skills evaluated so organizers can make teams that are competitive in most age categories. Players in the U4 and U6 age divisions did not participate in assessment day.

“We’re assessing U8 and up,” said Cacciato, adding it goes up to the U18 level.

Soccer players were assessed on passing, dribbling and shooting as they were divided into teams that played ten minute games of three-on-three soccer. Assessors evaluated the players and will use the information to make the teams.

Cacciato noted attendance was not mandatory at Saturday’s assessment day so the ASC will work with the information they have when creating teams.

There were five volunteers that were assessing the players that turned out.

“McHappy Day” supported well in Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

McHappy Day, the annual campaign by McDonald’s restaurants across Canada to raise money for Ronald McDonald House, returned last week to strong support.

The McDonald’s location in Amherstburg was one of many that was busier than usual as crowds packed the Sandwich St. S. restaurant throughout the day. Long lines along the street were reported at points with the drive-thru and restaurant also seeing large crowds.

“It’s going phenomenally,” said Jen McMahon, manager of the Amherstburg McDonald’s location.

McMahon added last Wednesday afternoon: “We have not stopped since 7 a.m. Donations have kept rolling in.”

Noting she had met upwards of eight local families that have used the services of Ronald McDonald House, McMahon said the Amherstburg restaurant was helping the nearest Ronald McDonald House in Windsor. Local political figures such as Mayor Michael Prue and Councillor Molly Allaire, Amherstburg Firefighters Association president Cameron Arksey, Windsor Police Service

– Amherstburg Detachment community services officer Const. Nick Dupuis, families who have used Ronald McDonald House and those supported by Community Living Essex County (CLEC) were among the volunteers that helped last Wednesday during “McHappy Day.”

McMahon said the Amherstburg community showed up in full force to support the event.

For more on this year’s “McHappy Day” campaign, visit https://www.rmhc-swo.ca/ events/mchappy-day-2024.

Grade 12 players

Maddy Drouillard and Hannah Coulson helped behind the bench at the recent junior girls tournament in London.

SUBMITTED

The Amherstburg Soccer Club (ASC) held its annual assessment day May 4 at the Libro Centre.

The team at the McDonald’s in Amherstburg got into the spirit of McHappy Day last Wednesday.

Legion granted noise exemption, pledges to work with neighbours

Continued from Page 1

“Decibel monitoring equipment is not that expensive, it’s not difficult to use. I’ve used it myself,” he said. “Licensing may not like the fact most of the breaches of the noise bylaw do occur at night. It’s not a simple thing where it happens between 9-5 on weekdays only.”

Wellman said it was his opinion that an exemption should be granted only if the Legion agrees to co-operate and keep noise volumes down. He didn’t believe they have shown the willingness or ability to do it in the past. He suggested a decibel level maximum of 70 and that exemptions be granted monthly, not for the season as was requested and approved.

Wellman said they enjoy Open Air Weekends and had no problem with the Legion offering outdoor entertainment.

“The real issue is the volume of those performances,” said Wellman.

Another nearby resident, David Beneteau, also outlined his concerns. He said he also spoke on the issue, noting he appeared as far back as 2019.

Beneteau didn’t believe administration followed a

Obituaries

Patricia Jean Zeppa (Nee Renaud)

November 15, 1944- May 6, 2024

request for a noise exemption policy, stating a policy would allow public engagement to be done and have the public notified. He said his preference would be that notification be put out to all residents via the River Town Times. Residents on Pickering Dr., Park St., Gore St., Ramsay St. and other areas are now impacted.

“Exemptions get issued for things where you have no control over volume,” he said, using parades and fireworks as examples. “If there is electronic amplification, there is zero excuse not to be able to control the volume.”

Beneteau said he is aware of bars that pull plugs from walls if a band is too loud.

Noise gets louder as the night goes on due to rising crowd noise, he added.

“I’m not letting it go now,” he said. “If they get a blanket exemption without an enforceable limit, I’m not going to let it drop.”

Beneteau said other events have also made loud noises, including previous instalments of the TRUE Festival and bands at the Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy show.

CAO Valerie Critchley defended the town on the issue of it not following a policy properly. She said manager of bylaw enforcement Bill Tetler has the authority to do a bylaw exemption if someone makes an application and pays a fee, and does so five to six times per year. Neighbours are notified in those cases, she said.

The decision Monday night was handled differently because it is a public event the Legion was presenting, with a fee waiver request attached. Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 president Ernie Gazdig said he respects the other presenters.

“We appreciate opinions, we like to work with people,” he said.

donations topped $25,000 over the last year.

“This is why the revenue of the bands outside is very, very important to us,” he said.

The Legion tries to monitor the noise as best as possible, Gazdig continued.

“We’re in a tunnel of noise. We’re not next to Pearson Airport in a flight path. I think to compare the two is ludicrous in all respects. It doesn’t make any sense,” he said.

By “noise tunnel,” he said an effect is created with noise from Dalhousie and Richmond causing it and noise accumulate and magnify when it gets to the Legion. He said they are not responsible for all of the noise.

Bands have been limited in size to three entertainers at a time. If there are issues with bands, they are shut down, he said. If there is a noise complaints, bar stewards will work with the bands to get noise under control.

“We are on top of that,” he said.

Speakers now point south, Gazdig said, and he said he has heard no complaints from people south of their building. Bands have to be booked at least a month in advance, he added, and it is not practical for the Legion to have to ask for exemptions monthly.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said he was worried that the matter could escalate further and possibly end up in the courts.

“I truly fear if we don’t settle this neighbour dispute, this is going to escalate into lawsuits, getting lawyers involved and everyone will lose,” said Gibb.

It is with deep sadness the family of Patty announces her passing at home, with her strong Christian faith into the arms of the Lord Jesus, at the age of 79 years. Patty was born in Amherstburg to the late Bill and Betty Renaud. Beloved wife of 42 years to Joe Zeppa. Loving mother to Wayne Clark (Maureen), Tracey Clark Ouellette (Don), dear stepmother to the late Julia Welke Mitchell (2004), late Lisa Fulghum (2016). Cherished grandmother to Billy Welke (Tiffany), Kerrie Meloche (Ryan Lafleur), Richard Meloche (Steph), Brandon Mitchell (Brooke). Proud great grandma to Juliana Welke, Adrianna Zayas, Carter Meloche, Lucas Lafleur, Lily Mitchell. Also expecting two more great grandchildren (a boy and a girl) due in June and July. Patty will forever be in the hearts of her siblings Bill Renaud (Diane), Larry Renaud (Nancy), Nancy Dufour (Dave), late Laura Gignac(2017) (John), late Jimmy Renaud (1991), Debbie Vermette (Greg), Cyndi McGraw, Michael Renaud (Martin), Kimberly Deschamps (Terry). Dear sister-in-law to Violet Mannino (late Phil 2005), late Virginia “Nina” Naas (2010). Patty is survived by many nieces and nephews as well as many life long-friends.

As a teenager Patty worked summers on Boblo Island. Then moved on as a nursing assistant at Riverview Nursing Home, in Windsor. In 1972, Patty went to work at the Windsor Raceway as a waitress in the dining room. Patty retired as a captain in the dining room in 2002, after 30 years of service.

Patty would like to thank her family doctor A.Rajan and Annie for 33 years of care. Also, Health First Pharmacy, Amherstburg, for their great service. Thank you to all the doctors and nurses at the Windsor Cancer Centre, as well as on the 7th floor at Metropolitan Hospital. They were really wonderful with their care during Patty’s stay in February and March of this year. Patty’s final home care by VON and PSW’s and Hospice kept her very comfortable until she went into the hands of the Lord Jesus, Our Savior.

As per Patty’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life for Patty will take place at a later date. Donations may be made to the Windsor Cancer Centre, Mission of Amherstburg or a charity of your choice. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.simplechoicecremation.ca

Gazdig said they wanted the exemptions during the entire Open Air Weekends season. Filing them repeatedly during a season would result in “redundant paperwork and excessive fees,” he believed. He said they have to compete with other venues to secure live entertainments and establishments who are also playing music.

“We are a non-profit organization funded by no one,” said Gazdig. “We earn our own keep through donations, members’ dues and running the business of the Legion as a recreational and hospitality facility, hence the bands.”

During the summer, the Legion’s primary revenue is from the bands, he added.

“We make it our plan to have entertainment whenever we can to increase our revenue,” said Gazdig.

Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 has also donated to numerous causes, both military-related and other causes in the Amherstburg community. He said

Gibb asked what has “definitively” done to keep the Legion in a 70 decibel range. Gazdig said “we’ll make every endeavour” to control the noise level, including telling bands the Legion has a right to control the noise level.

Councillor Diane Pouget asked where the 70 decibel limit came from. Tetler said he didn’t know where the 70 decibel level came from, noting there is nothing in the bylaw relating to decibel readings.

“This was debated by council May 24, 2022 and was not passed as part of that motion,” he said.

Pouget wanted to know what can be done to solve the issue, with Tetler stating that if noise is causing someone’s quality of life to be disrupted, that would be investigated on those grounds. Cases are dealt with on an individual basis, he added.

Critchley said the noise bylaw has been enforced by the complainant being advised to contact police, particularly if it is late at night. An information package is given to an affected resident with a log the resident able to fill it out.

Continued on Page 14

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GECDSB hosts two days of activity for Special Olympics

By Donna Tuckwell

Friday, May 3 was no ordinary day at Sandwich Secondary School in LaSalle.

It was the second day of the Special Olympics for the Greater Essex County District School Board.

Thursday was the elementary day which saw about 600 students, Friday was the secondary students with about 250 in attendance.

“We refer to this event as the Day of Champions,” said Superintendent of Education – School Design and Information Technology, Todd Awender.

“This is an annual event and it’s always a great day”, said Awender. “The kids go away with lots of ribbons and we’re really pleased about that.”

“Often times the schools have the kids march the hallways with all the other students cheering for them as they pass, it’s a really special day all around, both in the school and out here in the field,” said Awender.

The events start off just like they do in the Olympics with a march around the track, the singing of the national anthem, the oath, all the teams then line up while the Anderdon Public School Marching Band comes out to lead the way around the track just like

they have for the past decade.

“Events for the elementary are the 50 meter, the 100 meter, the ball throw, and the standing long jump”, said Awender. “For secondary, we have the 50 meter, the 100 meter, the standing long jump, the running long jump, and shotput, as well as the ball throw, and we also have the non-ambulatory events where there are children in wheelchairs, so we have a race for them, a ball throw, and a frisbee throw for them as well”

Healthy snacks like granola bars and lots of vegetables that were donated by different groups were served to the students throughout the day.

“After the kids are all done on the track and have their lunch, everyone heads into the gym for a dance,” said Awender. “Everyone really loves it, the teachers, the staff, the students, they are all dancing in there together and everyone is having a blast.”

“We have about 200 leadership students from our high school that are out here helping, a number of volunteers on our committee that have done a tremendous amount of work to get the day to where it is today,” said Awender. “Everyone is included, inclusion and fun is what today is all about.”

Town council has extensive debate on noise bylaw exemption issue

Continued from Page 13

“If we lay charges, we have to have that evidence,” she said.

Councillor Linden Crain wondered how other municipalities measure noise and handle such matters, with Tetler stating some measure noise but most have bylaws similar to Amherstburg.

Tetler added that bylaw enforcement is not an on demand service, noting they often follow up such complaints the next day.

Gibb stated his research said when a sound engineer came to council in 2019, “the sound engineer seemed to indicate the 70 decibel range is the upper limit of what would be acceptable level of sound in this situation.”

Councillor Molly Allaire wanted

to know if Tetler’s department had received complaints from other events, including Open Air Weekends.

Tetler said he was not aware of any complaints from either 2022 or 2023 from events and from the Legion.

“I do feel the Legion is going to work hard at maintaining and ensuring they work with residents when a complaint is made,” said Allaire.

Gibb voted to grant the exemption, but continued to urge co-operation between the parties.

“I am very, very concerned that if the noise levels are not acceptable, this is going to go past what Amherstburg town council can manage,” he said.

“I hope and trust and pray that the Legion is going to take their neighbours concerns seriously and do everything

Austin ‘Toddy’

in their power. I don’t want the people of Amherstburg to lose out on what their Legion does for them, what the Legion does for their community and the pure enjoyment factor.”

Councillor Don McArthur declared a conflict of interest and didn’t participate in the discussions or vote as his band – the River Rock Ramblers – play

at the Legion.

Mayor Michael Prue said he has had people say he should declare a conflict but said, even though he is a Legion member, he derives no financial benefit.

“There is no money involved whatsoever,” he said. “For the record, I don’t have a conflict of interest.”

Everyone enjoyed the day, athletes, students, friends and mascots.

École St.-Jean Baptiste students learn new sewing skills

By Ron Giofu

Grade 8 students at École St.-Jean Baptiste got a chance to brush up on some hands-on skills that perhaps aren’t as utilized as they once were.

Principal Diana Bala said it was an opportunity for students to learn more about sewing and making their own clothes, noting it is a profession that has declining numbers. The goal was to give the students some experience in sewing and tailoring.

“They are working with the parents and the grandparents,” said Bala.

Approximately 25 Grade 8 students participated, with some starting in one classroom cutting and measuring fabric while others went to a second classroom where they got experience on a sewing machine. Bala pointed out they used all necessary safety precautions while making their own pajamas, with the help of the adults.

“They are getting a taste for different skills,” said Bala.

Parent Donna Gorrell believed it was a good program for everyone while students Alex LeBlanc and Gavin Haggarty agreed. The students agreed it could help them create their own Halloween costumes later this year.

“I’m enjoying it very much,” said grandparent Jean

Evans, adding it was her third time coming to the French-Catholic elementary school to take part in the program.

Bala emphasized they wanted to teach the students different skills and let them learn new things they could use in the real world.

Biz Discovery Program

As part of the town’s “Biz Discovery Program,” a series of workshops were held as part of Economic Development Week - both in-person and virtual. A meet-and-greet was held at Vivace Estate Winery last week with Mayor Michael Prue helping with a raffle (left) while Renée Morel and Aparna Krishnamoorthy from the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre were one of the organizations in attendance.

Grace Pillon works with Jean Evans on a sewing machine (above) while Christine Haggarty provided assistance to Gavin Haggarty and Alex LeBlanc (right).

Community Calendar

SATURDAY, MAY 18

“BOATS IN THE BURG”; Marsh Historical Collection hosting “Boats in the Burg: A River Town History” event. Exhibit open now at 80 Richmond St. and runs through July 12, but May 18 event features presentation and signing by “Eight Steamboats Sailing Through the Sixties” author Patrick Livingston. Patrick’s presentation is at 2 p.m. at River Bookshop with Marsh Historical Collection open that day from 12-4 p.m. Register for the presentation at info@ riverbookshop.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 18

PURPLE MARTIN ASSOCIATION MEETING; The Ontario Purple Martin Association will hold meeting at Colchester Community Centre, 100 Jackson St. in Colchester, starting at 9 a.m. The public is welcome. For more info, call Paul at 519-738-3476.

SATURDAY, MAY 25

PASTA DINNER; St. Joseph Usher’s all-you-can-eat pasta dinner to be held at St. Joseph Church in River Canard from 4:30-7:30 p.m. Ticket includes pasta, salad, buns, dessert, coffee, tea, water. Pop available for purchase. Raffle draws. Wine available for purchase by Cooper’s Hawk Winery. Tickets $20 adults, children between 6-10 $10 and five and under or over 80 free. Take-out available. Call Tom Dupuis to order 519-978-9425.

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

OPEN HOUSE; Held at Amherstburg Target Sports, 9583 Concession Road 9, in support of National Range Day. Starts at 10 a.m. Event is for all ages. Tour the facilities and see demonstrations of various shooting sports the club offers. All firearms, ammunition and safety equipment provided by the club. For $10 participants will be able to shoot in the rifle/ pistol range, and 10 targets on the trap field or 5 stand. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, all adults please bring photo ID. Event has limited capacity. No private firearms, no pets. Please register on the Eventbrite space, payment required upon check-in at the club. https://www. eventbrite.ca/o/amherstburg-target-sports-81915602253

SATURDAY, JUNE 1

TEA PARTY; The Catholic Women’s League of St. John The Baptist Church is hosting its 8th Annual Olde English High Tea Party from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. at Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., Amherstburg.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8-SUNDAY, JUNE 9

GARDEN TOUR; Presented by the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society. Ten local private gardens to

be featured. Tour access passes, which contains addresses of gardens, can be purchased for $15 (cash only) at Toddy Jones Park. Tour runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day, rain or shine. For more info, visit www.aburghortsociety.ca or www. facebook.com/aburghortsociety.

SUNDAY, JUNE 16

EGG TO BUTTERFLY; Seminar presented by Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society and LaSalle Horticultural Society. Runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Amherstburg Community Services, 320 Richmond St. $20 registration fee, $15 for horticultural society members. Includes three speakers, full Capri pasta lunch, refreshments, snacks, desserts, door prizes, silent auction. For details, e-mail horticulturalsociety@ mdirect.net.

ONGOING

STROLL & ROLL WALKING GROUP; Interested in meeting new people? Moving more? Weekly walking group to meet rain or shine. Free for everyone in the community, open to all abilities. Runs Tuesdays in Navy Yard Park in Amherstburg from 10-11 a.m., May 7-June 25. In Harrow Thursdays from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at Harrow Health Centre (1480 Erie St. S.) from May 9-June 27. Inclement weather alternatives are Libro Centre in Amherstburg and community room in clinic in Harrow. For info, call Amherstburg Family Health Team at 519-736-7770 ext. 235 or Harrow 519-738-2000 ext. 522.

MISSION GOLF TOURNAMENT SEEKING SPONSORS; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission golf tournament is June 29 at Coachwood Golf and Country Club. Hole sponsors still being sought. Interested businesses/individuals can call Laura at 519-982-2684.

HOUSE GOLF TOURNAMENT NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; The House Youth Centre hosting 22nd annual Community Cup golf tournament July 13 at Sutton Creek Golf Course in McGregor. Volunteer orientation is July 9. For more information, call 519-736-6811 or visit https://linktr.ee/ thehouseyouthcentre.

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

MIRACLE LEAGUE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS; The Miracle League of Amherstburg’s spring season underway. Volunteers are still needed. People can help out at one game or multiple games (up to four) every Saturday through June 15, weather permitting. Great for students needing volunteer hours or

adults looking for ways to give back. For info or to sign up, visit www.amherstburgmiracle.com.

YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Resident looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society. Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett) at 519-995-4057 for pick up.

ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail. com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle residents. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $7.50 per meal. Call 519-7365471 for details.

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

ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members and visitors are welcome. We are on Facebook!

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation). Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30-6:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome.

FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse Church, in

conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come meet others in the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640.

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

ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; 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 continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club.” Donors help fund general operations fund 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.

AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help!

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR RENT

3-BEDROOM UPPER

DUPLEX FOR RENT IN AMHERSTBURG; Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1200 sq. ft. Upper-Duplex in quiet neighbourhood on Queen Street. Open-concept living-room and diningarea with cathedral-ceiling. Carpet and Ceramic-Tile throughout. Open-concept kitchen with Island, Fridge, Stove and Dishwasher included. Private ensuite laundry-room, Washer and Dryer included. 3 Bedrooms with lots of closet-space. 4-Piece Bathroom. Central ForcedAir Conditioning and HighEfficiency Gas Furnace. No Smoking. Private access to your own deck, within shared rear-yard. $1,875 Monthly, plus Utilities. Minimum 1-year Lease. Apply with: References, Income-Verification & Credit Checks. First and Last Months Rent Required. By Appointment Only, call 519-736-4473 between 9:00am to 5 pm and leave a detailed message.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA

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PEST CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL

DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

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

LANDSCAPING

"Preferred Landscaping" Locally owned company offering lawn care services. Weekly, monthly, or one time cutting, trimming, and yard clean up. Please call Larry for a free quote. 519984-7412.

WANTED TO BUY

GOLD SILVER Jewelry + ALL COINS- Buying 57 years ExperienceFri May 31 Amherstburg Community Services Centre 320 Richmond St Amherstburg During the Senior Fair 9am-4pm Note the TIME- Annual Plant Sale also on Cash Paid for ALL Gold + Silver Jewelry + **OLD COINS; Canada, USA, World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money Free Estimates No Obligation**Locally Owned** 57 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Not Expensive Colored Brochuresdelivered in your mail”House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519818-1805

“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

HAIRSTYLIST/ BARBER CHAIR RENTAL

Hairstylist Chair rental; available May 1, contact Vivienne or Carol at Carol’s unisex 519 736-4400

YARN DONATIONS WANTED

YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Resident looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for the WindsorEssex County Humane Society. Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett) at 519-995-4057

We thought of you today, But that is nothing new. We thought of you yesterday, And days before that too. We think of you in silence We often speak your name. Now all we have are memories, And your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake, With which we’ll never part. God has you in his keeping We have you in our hearts.

Today (9th Anniversary) and Every Day

Our Devoted Father and Grandfather

March 6, 1927 - May 12, 2015

Another year has passed without you here But fond memories and recollections are always near We honour your memory and your legacy lives on Forever in our minds, forever in our hearts. With

Local school welcomes prospective students for the second time

By RTT Staff

A local elementary school welcomed young students with the hopes they join the fold.

École St.-Jean Baptiste held an open house for prospective JK and SK students last Thursday evening. Principal Diana Bala said they had a JK/SK open house in January and wanted to have another to try and increase enrolment.

“This is the second open house we are doing,” explained Bala.

Students from the French-Catholic school’s student parliament as well as members of the parent council helped guide parents and their children to classrooms to talk to teachers and experience programming. They had various stations in the gymnasium where students could have some fun and there was an opportunity to experience the school’s STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) program.

Bala added the parents were given a “passport” that they could get stamped as the toured the school.

“The children are following the passport,” she said.

Registration in JK and SK for the 2024-25 school year is over 30 thus far, Bala pointed out, but they are always looking to welcome more students. She said last Thursday’s event was a “mini” open house with it being larger in January.

“If someone did have the chance

to see the school in January, they can see it right now,” Bala said during last Thursday evening’s open house. “This is the second opportunity to welcome them.”

École St.-Jean Baptiste welcomes students from around the Amherstburg area. It is located at 365 Fryer St. and their phone number is 519-736-6427.

Isaac Maybee plays with a toy in the STEM lab (above) while Molly Theriault-Mazzaferro also enjoyed the JK/SK open house (below).