River Town Times - December , 2023

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Wednesday, December 6, 2023

A day at the ballet

The Rivertown Dance Academy presented an Aspirant Ballet Company production of “Alice in Wonderland” Sunday afternoon at St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School’s Festival Theatre. The roughly two-hour performance featured dancers of a variety of ages and abilities with studio co-owner Catherine Cristofaro stating they were proud of the dancers that took part. Cristofaro was one of four choreographers along with Jayna Rocheleau, Alyssa Roke and Ekaterina Ostroven.

For more photos, please turn to Page 13.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

Operational and capital budgets tabled by town council

By Ron Giofu The 2024 operating and capital budgets have been tabled by town council with council members having their work cut out for them.

Elected officials will enter deliberations trying to whittle down a proposed tax increase of 7.13 per cent.

Broken down, that starting figure represents a 4.56 per cent increase in contractual costs, in-year commitments, an increase in special reserves and new positions while another 1.6 per cent is to support the asset management plan (AMP) financial strategy. The other portion of the proposed increase is 0.77 per cent in new debt.

That proposed increase translates to a $194.14 per year increase to the average home valued at $250,000, or $3.66 per week.

Town council learned of the news during a special council meeting Monday night. CAO Valerie Critchley told council members administration crafted the draft budget with the town’s new strategic plan in mind.

She said they tried to be mindful of the “pillars” contained within.

The Town of Amherstburg not only has to look at fiscal sustainability, but Critchley said they are responsible for providing quality services as well. There are “hard realities” that have to be faced, she indicated, such as five years worth of inflation and previous tax

increases that were below the rate of inflation.

“We did not keep pace and that put us behind the eight ball before we even started to put together the 2024 budget,” said Critchley.

There was also an increased demand for services and the adding of new assets.

Other municipalities within Essex County start their budget processes with proposed increases ranging from five to seven per cent, she added, but the CAO said the municipalities on the lower end of that scale had higher tax increases than Amherstburg last year and have healthier reserves. Drawing on reserves is not recommended for Amherstburg, she indicated.

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Council enters deliberations attempting to cut proposed 7.13% increase

Continued from Page 1

Critchley told town council Amherstburg had the lowest tax rate increase of the seven Essex County municipalities last year.

Director of corporate services/treasurer Tracy Prince pointed out that the county and education taxes count for 37 per cent of a municipal tax bill and the town has no control over that.

The town faces challenges including maintaining current programs and services within council-approved service levels; increasing costs of such things as utilities, fuel, benefits, the police contract, and salary and wage adjustments and lifecycle reserve contributions.

Other budget pressures include utilities and insurance, program service and delivery, legislative reforms, climate change such as flooding and wind events, and federal and provincial budget uncertainty.

While residents may feel having the lowest tax increase is the most desirable, it comes with a cost in the future.

“Major infrastructure can no longer be deferred,” she said.

Prince said Amherstburg’s debt per capita is the highest in the county but its reserve balance sits third from the bottom.

MPAC is “catching up on assessments and adjustments,” Prince added, and that the town won’t be having unbudgeted supplemental dollars coming in a few years. She added Ontario Community Infrastructure Funding (OCIF) is about 85 per cent of what it was for the 2023 budget.

Operating revenues for 2024 see about 51 per cent come from property taxes while user fees and grants make up for the remaining 49 per cent.

“Town council, with public input, decides how best to balance the budget, guided by provincial legislation,” she said.

Among the proposed new positions in the 2024 budget are a part-time human resources administrator, a fulltime IT security and systems administrator, a full-time executive assistant in the parks and recreation department, a part-time recreation co-ordinator for one year only, a part time special events co-ordinator, a full-time development

White Bird

services technician, and a a full-time mechanic.

But that’s not all.

Administration is recommending three per cent increases to both water and wastewater rates. Prince noted they were waiting for the results of a study last year, but with that study in this year, they are “in line” with the outcomes of that study.

Prince’s presentation Monday night stated the Town of Amherstburg secured the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) to perform an asset management plan on the linear asset associated with water and wastewater.

She called that “a deeper dive than the AMP provided for water and wastewater infrastructure.”

“OCWA will also review the water and wastewater rates and bring forth recommendations.

Administration will bring forward that report for further discussion and approval,” Prince’s report stated. “The report is in the review stage. Administration is planning to bring it to council in the new year.”

Prince added: “Amherstburg owns and maintains our own infrastructure. It’s costly but it needs to be maintained.”

Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne went over the 2024 proposed capital budget, noting the total five-year capital budget is over $64.3 million with the 2024 portion being over $13.3 million.

She said a good portion of the 2024 capital budget is the over $3 million for work on the King’s Navy Yard Park and work order module approved by town council Oct. 23.

Osborne stated during her presentation to town council that the total increase in recommended capital projects from 2024-27 when compared to the 2023 five-year capital budget includes an over $4.6 million increase in previously approved in-principle projects and in excess of $7.3 million in new projects not included in the 2023 five-year capital budget.

The recommended 2024 capital budget is almost $4.3 million higher than what was approved in principle in 2023 for 2024, said Osborne, with that attributed to council’s

2023 operational budget approval to increase transfers to reserves for AMP and new capital, 2024 OCIF funding higher than projected in 2023 and 2024 water reserves higher than projected in 2023.

Reserves in 2024 are around $33.4 million on the capital side and $6.5 million on the operational side but the capital side is expected to dip to around $28.5 million in 2028.

Capital budget pressures in 2023 were $3 million attributed by the town to the Boblo forcemain and nearly $11 million in new assets assumed. The town has an asset portfolio, based on the 2022 AMP of about $1 billion, with the increase in assets amounting to 1.3 per cent.

An infrastructure funding gap still faces the town, according to Osborne with projected capital investments totalling over $11.6 million in 2024 but lagging almost $11.6 million behind as the AMP’s recommended annual investment is over $23.2 million.

The town is losing out on nearly $400,000 in additional development charge revenue due to changes in legislation, with Councillor Diane Pouget asking if the provincial government is doing anything to try and help municipalities offset that loss.

Critchley said work is being done to review losses by municipalities with Osborne adding the town is working with every association and agency it can “to try and make things whole.”

A sample of proposed projects in the 2024 capital budget are $56,600 for the preparation of a development charges study, $56,500 for land improvements in the Howard Industrial Park District, $464,000 for a new building for the fire department on Boblo Island, $68,400 for fire department radios, $200,000 towards a bridge maintenance program, $100,000 for a sidewalk on the south side of Pickering Dr., $200,00 for the town’s road surface treatment program, $1,050,000 for the replacement of two culverts and engineering work to prepare for a third, $150,000 for the town’s sidewalk replacement program, $350,000 for a water metre exchange program, $150,000 for McGregor lagoon upgrades, $60,000 to upgrade a River Canard pump

station, over $1 million to upgrade the Lakewood Dr. pumping station with $683,000 being the town’s share, over $1 million in upgrades and maintenance at the water and wastewater plants, and $300,000 for a sanitary master plan.

Other proposed capital projects include nearly $1.3 million to replace multiple vehicles and machines in the town’s fleet, $100,000 in engineering work for the eventual reconstruction of Concession 5 North between North Side Road and County Road 8, $400,000 in engineering work for the eventual reconstruction of Fryer St. between Lowes Side Road and Pickering Dr., $350,000 for a multi-use trail on County Road 10 in McGregor with 40 per cent to be covered by the County of Essex through the CWATS plan, $900,000 to mill and pave Alma St. from Meloche Road to Concession 5 South, $200,000 to replace parking lots at five town-owned buildings, another $150,000 for the Libro Centre parking lot, and $150,000 for roof repairs for buildings in Toddy Jones Park and King’s Navy Yard Park.

The draft 2024 capital budget also contains asks such as $100,000 for emergency services back-up generators, $200,000 for park master plan and Libro Centre secondary plan, $150,000 for Navy Yard Park upgrades, $350,000 for tennis/pickleball courts at the Libro Centre, and $129,500 towards the eventual Co-An Park redevelopment.

A public open house on the 2024 budget is planned for the Libro Centre Dec. 12 between 6-8 p.m.

A survey is available for the public to complete at www.talktheburg.ca until Dec. 18 with the entire budget package now available through that website.

For those unable to complete the budget survey online, hard copies of it are available at Amherstburg town hall and the Libro Centre.

People can register to delegate to council regarding the 2024 budget at a Jan. 15 meeting with the actual budget deliberations planned for Jan. 15 from 5-10 p.m., Jan. 16 from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Jan. 17 (if necessary) from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Budget approval is scheduled for the Feb. 12 town council meeting.

Book Review

By. R.J. Palacio In Wonder, R. J, Palacio left us wanting more. The author then followed her bestseller with the extraordinary, Auggie and Me, which gave us a closer look at the life and redemption of the character of Julian. In White Bird, we are transported to the life and experiences of Julian’s grandmother as a child during the holocaust of World War Two. Get your Kleenex ready, because as she does with Wonder, Palacio has given us characters of depth and heart that will stay with you long after you have read the last words on the page.

Written By: Bookseller Darrie-Ann

Christmas And Other Horrors

Short stories from various authors Are you looking for the perfect book for the Christmas Grinch in your life? This chilling collection of Solstice horror stories may just be the perfect thing for them.

Traditionally winter solstice is a time for joy, but the true origin stories paint a much darker picture that tells of ghouls, hauntings, witches and vengeful gods.

These tales will have you hiding under a blanket wide awake, instead of sleeping when Saint Nick comes.

Written By: Bookseller Grace

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 3

www.rivertowntimes.com

Rotary Club teams with Safe Families Windsor-Essex on Christmas party

The Rotary Club of Amherstburg provided funding and volunteer support for a Christmas party presented by Safe Family Windsor-Essex last Thursday evening at Heritage Park Alliance Church in LaSalle. (Left photo): Rotarians Sandra Paisley, Don MacKay, Susanne Rainhard, Wanda Lawhead and Corey Rainhard helped put the meals together. (Right photo): Members of the “Steps for Faith” dance group perform.

By Ron Giofu Children and families supported by Safe Families Windsor-Essex (SFWE) were able to get into the Christmas spirit thanks to a local service club.

The Rotary Club of Amherstburg obtained a $2,000 grant through its parent organization and that was put towards a Christmas party last Thursday night at Heritage Park Alliance Church in LaSalle. SFWE was founded and still maintains an office at Lighthouse Church in Amherstburg but is expanding in Essex County including basing events out of Heritage Park Alliance Church.

“I think it was an excellent night,” said SFWE chapter director Joanne Fear. “The kids had a great night.”

The Rotary Club got involved and it helped make the dinner a reality. After a full turkey dinner, children enjoyed a visit with Santa Claus, opening presents, and dancing from the group Steps for Faith.

“It was something I really wanted to do,” Fear said of the Christmas party.

“We don’t have a budget for this. All of our services are free. All of our donations go toward keeping our programs running.”

Without the contribution of the Rotary Club of Amherstburg, SFWE

Post office staying put There may be “For Rent” signs on the building, but the Amherstburg Post Office is not vacating.

Staff at the Amherstburg Post Office have told the RTT they have been hearing from customers worried about the post office moving or closing at that location, but said they are not going anywhere and staying where they are at.

The Amherstburg Post Office is located within the building at 66 Richmond St.

#LOCALNEWSMATTERS

couldn’t present such events. Local Rotarians volunteered their time to help serve the dinner.

Approximately 30 families registered but a few of them had to cancel. Fear still estimated attendance at 20-25 families and 120 people with volunteers also part of the event.

Fear said many families are simply a single parent with a child or multiple children who can’t afford a lot of gifts for their children.

SFWE has embarked on a “Christmas Giving Campaign” but pointed out donations in the fall were down.

“We’re really putting a push on Christmas giving,” she said.

“That pushes us into next year.”

As SFWE has to raise its own funding, a slowdown in funding could translate into fewer services or not as many families supported. They have a waiting list currently, but Fear said they are making their way through it.

SFWE is seeing success as they support families in crisis and try to keep families together if a parent needs medical attention or faces other issues.

Fear said they are trying to break the cycle of poverty and foster care and they are seeing families and parents get the support they need to help do that.

One of the Rotarians that helped present the dinner was Wanda

Lawhead, with Lawhead giving full credit to the club for helping to make it happen. She said she was speaking with Fear last year and the idea of a dinner came up.

The idea was brought to the Rotary Club and grew from there.

“A lot of families don’t get to experience this,” she said. “Something like this happened because Joanne had a

thought and she shared it with us. The Rotary Club was able to support her in her dream. When they say ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ that’s exactly what happened here.”

To donate to Safe Families WindsorEssex, e-transfer funds to windsor@ safefamilies.ca or mail a cheque to Safe Families Windsor-Essex, 266 King St., Amherstburg, ON, N9V 2C6.

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Province activates disaster relief program for those impacted by August floods Special to the RTT The Ontario government has activated the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program in certain areas of southwestern Ontario.

The program comes as a result of a series of thunderstorms which passed through southwestern Ontario Aug. 23, causing significant damage in Essex, Lakeshore, Kingsville, and Amherstburg. The storms led to localized flooding, power outages, washedout roads, and flooded basements.

According to Environment Canada, up to 180 millimeters of rain fell between Lake St. Clair and Lake Erie

from Aug. 23-25, with a maximum of 214 millimeters measured in Harrow in the Town of Essex. Essex County received the most rainfall, which was a one-in-100-year event.

“The government of Ontario is stepping up to help residents in Essex County who were affected by extraordinary weather events,” said Essex MPP Anthony Leardi. “I want to thank all those emergency responders who were there when people needed them.”

The disaster assistance program applies to a primary residence and its basic contents, or to a small business, farm or not-for-profit organization.

It provides assistance for emergency expenses and the costs to repair or replace essential property following a natural disaster not covered by insurance.

Low-income households can apply for assistance for damage caused by sewer backup, which is not otherwise eligible under the program.

To find out if they may be eligible for assistance if they are in the activation area, and for next steps, individuals, small businesses, farms and not-forprofit organizations should review the maps and program guidelines, or call 1-877-822-0116 or e-mail disasterassistance@ontario.ca after speaking

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

with their private insurance provider.

Residents with no insurance coverage or whose insurance coverage is insufficient to cover essential costs have until March 27, 2024, to apply for assistance through the program.

In a statement released Monday afternoon, the Town of Amherstburg says it is pleased with the announcements.

“In times of crisis, the strength of our community shines through,” stated Mayor Michael Prue. “We are grateful for this needed support from the province. The extension of disaster relief is a lifeline for our residents, providing financial assistance and a sense of hope.”

Reader gives his opinions on the upcoming Amherstburg budget deliberations Our new budget for fiscal 2024 will soon be debated. It is important that this process be open and transparent.

Recently, council passed a procedural bylaw that discourages public discourse, limiting people from asking questions from the floor. This doesn’t help stimulate public debate. It is not for council to determine what questions are relevant or not. The public cannot be blamed for not having sufficient information or being misinformed on every issue. It is council’s job to educate them.

During the last election, most members of council agreed that the town would have an audited financial

statement and have it released to the public on paper if asked. It would put trust back into the process for those with no financial expertise. A simplified and easy to read financial report in plain English on how much it cost to operate our municipality, how much we collect from property taxes, how much revenue we collect in any given year because of increased development of both residential and commercial activities, and also as a result of property reassessments and town-owned facilities.

In short, a summary report.

Creative accounting is not a substitute for an honest financial statement given

the slow down in the economy and high interest rates.

It is not sufficient to just balance our budget. We need to implement a plan for debt reduction over ten years. It is not only responsible, it is necessary.

A conservative fiscal approach is needed to stay competitive. The cost of living in our community can not be higher than Essex or Kingsville.

South Windsor is where the new jobs will be created due to the expansion of Highway 3 making Essex and Kingsville attractive communities to relocate. They are more cost efficient than Amherstburg. We have lost our

competitive advantage.

A plan for economic development with long-term objectives is necessary.

Creating accounting will not make our current debt disappear.

In addition to approximately $50 million in unfunded pension liabilities, that at the same point needs to be paid for, what we want and what we need are two different things. Sensible people will know the difference. My final point for now is that we need to do a better job managing and promoting our community’s rich history and heritage.

—Frank Cerasa Amherstburg

Resident looking forward to the TRUE Festival next January Thank you for the delightful bit of irony you inserted into the River Town Times on November 29 - it brought a smile to my face!

On Page 4 was the criticism from two town councillors on the inclusion of a drag show in the annual TRUE Festival.

Not “family-friendly”!

And then on the opposite page, the wonderful photograph from almost 70 years ago of the all-male cast from Branch 157 of the Royal Canadian Legion in a musical comedy performance at General Amherst High School. I do believe the five gentleman in the back row are all dressed as women! The more things change…

At least the art of drag has come a long way! Time to update your attitudes!

I’ll be at the TRUE Festival on January 27 to see the amazing drag artists!

—Pete Tallon Amherstburg

Visitor “delighted” to see the town hosting an event promoting inclusivity I recently visited Amherstburg after having moved away from there about eight years ago. I picked up the River Town Times to find out what was going on in the ‘Burg. I was delighted to see that the city was hosting an event that promotes inclusivity. Having drag

queens at the TRUE festival is fun and absolutely entertaining! It is only deemed controversial in the sense that individual opinions are amplified to give the appearance of impropriety.

I believe that a majority of the public have no issue or even a spare thought

about drag queens. I find it somewhat ironic that on the next page of the paper, there is a historical photo, of men wearing drag in a school play from 1954. This seemed to be acceptable entertainment at General Amherst High School almost 70 years ago. The

similarities between then and now couldn’t be more obvious. The only difference is the lens through which it is viewed.

—Mary Jacobs Amherstburg

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY Laura D’Alessandro SALES / CO-PUBLISHER

Ron Giofu

PRINTERS AND PUBLISHERS - Publications Mail Registration No. 09204. Published every Wednesday

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Advertisements and inserts do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the River Town Times.

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada.

Matthew Zaidan

Ian Phillips

PROOFREADER (VOLUNTEER)

• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word or ethnic organizations. Those rants are range please. more suited to social media.

• We will gladly print letters commending • We reserve the right to edit for spelling, specific people or organizations in the grammar and length, and any possible community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole. concerns over libel and/or slander.

• Please sign your letters and provide • We reserve the right to not publish a phone number for verification or letters that we view inflammatory, questions if we need to reach out to you. inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific • Anonymous letters are not printed as people, groups, religions, governments we cannot verify their origin.

Send letters to mail@rivertowntimes.com or drop off at the office: 80 Richmond St., Unit 9 or mail to: River Town Times, 80 Richmond St., Amherstburg ON N9V 1E9

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 5

www.rivertowntimes.com

GHTS OF COLUMBUS Procedural bylaw reconsideration won’t proceed KSr.N I Dinner and Dance

By Ron Giofu

A motion to take another look the town’s new procedural bylaw will not go forward.

Councillor Diane Pouget’s motion to amend the procedural bylaw, passed at the Aug. 14 meeting, with amendments including “to identify that delegations are permitted which do not include an administrative report or by-law before the assembly;” to identify that the rules of order may be suspended by majority vote of council and shall be time limited and specific; and that members of council should not vacate their seats during the conduct of proceedings, unless excused by the mayor.”

Two delegates spoke on the issue, including Linda Saxon. Saxon told council she has e-mailed her concerns since February “but I have not received a full response.”

Saxon wants to know what accommodations are provided for persons with disabilities who can’t attend council meetings in-person. She said a delegate requests in March and July were questioned, with Saxon adding it was announced in July she was late though she told council Nov. 27 she was not.

“I reiterated my accommodation concerns including the opportunity for residents to submit written delegations like other municipalities, which would be more inclusive,” she said. “Although I was advised residents may provide written materials, it is usually relegated to consent correspondence.”

Saxon stated there seems to be an increase where delegate requests are an issue, adding it is a good time to update the bylaw with public consultation. She said the revised procedural bylaw was adopted in August “without consultation and with the input of those council members who answered my questions.”

Neither the Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario (AMCTO) or the Ministry of Municipal Affairs have a best practice or template for establishing a procedural bylaw, something Saxon said she learned in September.

“It is up to council to create an inclusive and accessible bylaw,” she said.

Saxon said she asked council members in September if council members considered Human Rights Code accommodations for people with disabilities, with Saxon adding she did not get a response.

“The right to equal treatment and equal opportunity is paramount,” said Saxon. “Those of the opinion that all individuals are treated equally and fairly, I submit that rules equally applied to everyone may result in inequities but not everyone is the same.”

Saxon reiterated she asked for accommodations for people with disabilities unable to attend meetings in-person, adding the opportunity to speak spontaneously at council was removed.

“Would it not have resulted in more inclusivity if council had implemented a variety of options for people not able to attend meetings in-person?” she asked.

“Does the technology not exist to extend the same opportunity via Zoom? If a written delegation best meets the need of a person with a disability, is that not easy to implement?”

Saxon noted the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities stated no policy should be decided without input from groups impacted by the policy. She requested council to re-evaluate its policy and ensure there are no barriers.

Vince Laframboise spoke in favour of the new procedural bylaw, asking council to let it play out.

“I’m going to assume that all of you, and this came up in August, did your homework, you read the bylaw, worked with staff if you had any questions and considered the ramifications,” said Laframboise. “I believe this was the case because there were no questions asked at the meeting Aug. 14 and it passed unanimously.”

Laframboise said they voted to confirm the bylaw and didn’t believe council members would have voted on it if they didn’t understand it.

“There have been some refreshing meetings recently,” he added. “For the most part, quite smooth, well executed in moving business forward, this bylaw as written ensures the town staff can properly provide all the necessary information to you as elected officials.

There is no scrambling at a meeting, no surprises at a

meeting, no blindsides or questions or remarks.”

Laframboise believed staff must feel more enabled to accomplish its work. He said it is one of the best ways he has seen of council supporting its staff.

“Gone are the days of a ratepayer showing up at a meeting and dropping surprising issues that may or most likely may not require town council,” he said.

Ratepayers can review the agenda, read information, provide their comments and register as a delegate.

“There are no favourites, no preferential treatment or old boys clubs, Facebook friends or etc. It’s super clean and a powerful process that ensures equal opportunity and equitable access to our elected officials,” he said.

Laframboise believed council meetings should not “be a receptacle for wide-ranging ratepayer grievances” when there are other methods to pursue. There are opportunities to bring issues to town staff or elected officials beforehand rather than “showing up at a meeting and asking town business be paused while I shout from my soapbox causing unequitable information to be presented to my fellow ratepayers and, I assume, some deflation from town staff.”

Pouget’s original request called for the matter to be deferred pending public consultation as well as to give answers regarding accessibility issues and the Human Rights Code. The motion lost in a 3-2 vote.

“Administration did not consult with any members of council for input prior to presenting this very restrictive bylaw. There was no public consultation prior to the passing of this bylaw,” she said. “After careful considerations and watching our ratepayers, they were not allowed to speak at public council meetings unless the item they wished to speak on was on the agenda.”

Pouget called it “irrational and totally unfair” that a vote must be unanimous to waive the rules of order for a resident to speak.

“I believe this procedural bylaw discourages public engagement and is unfair to our residents,” she said.

Councillor Peter Courtney supported Pouget’s request, noting while staff put a lot of time and effort into the bylaw, and questioned how many man-hours would actually need to be spent if it is a few amendments.

“I think it’s worth looking at again. This is probably the most important document for our transparency and accessibility. Sometimes it is off the cuff. They have a busy life and something happens and they can’t meet the criteria for jumping through the hoops to make it a proper delegation.”

Courtney said voting to reconsider is doing their due diligence, so he supported Pouget’s request.

The current procedural bylaw is the right approach and allows for the public to know what council will be discussing at each meeting with reasonable notice, said Councillor Linden Crain.

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AND HAS PROVIDED FOR YOUR SALVATION THRU HIS SON JESUS CHRIST Will you accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour & Lord today?

The Bible says: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead thou shalt be saved.

Romans 10:9 Pray this prayer from your heart today: Dear Jesus, I believe you died for my sins and rose again the third day. And I accept you now as my Lord and Saviour. By believing this in my heart, I know that I am now saved and am a child of God. Thank you for hearing me, and your love for me. I know you will keep me by your spirit thru your word the Holy Bible.

Thank you, Amen.

Now go to a bible believing church.

MOUNT BEULAH CHURCH

246 King St, Amherstburg Sunday Service - 12 Noon Bible Study Tuesday 6pm Pastor Maynard Hurst 519-736-4110

Continued on Page 19

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Mayor on the mend after fracturing his hip

By Ron Giofu

Storyteller Olwyn Coughlin performs at the Park House Museum’s “Dickens A Christmas Carol” last Friday night. Musicians Joe Perry and Phil Kasurak are also pictured. Two sold-out performances were held last Thursday and Friday.

Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” presented at Park House Museum

By Ron Giofu The Park House Museum helped get people into the holiday season last week.

With the help of storyteller Olwyn Coughlin and musicians Joe Perry and Phil Kasurak, the Dalhousie St. community museum presented “Dickens’ A Christmas Carol.” Coughlin read from the Charles Dickens classic, portraying different characters along the way, with Perry and Kasurak performing Christmas carols during breaks in Coughlin’s performance.

Stephanie Pouget-Papak, executive director with the Park House Museum, was encouraged by the crowds that attended last Thursday and Friday nights. She said they had limited seating each evening but the seats they did have were sold, with room for about 25 each night.

“We had some people who had never been here before,” said Pouget-Papak.

There were others that make the “Dickens’ A Christmas Carol” an annual tradition and attend ever year.

Pouget-Papak believes the event attracts an audience because they enjoy the nostalgia of the holiday.

“It’s the sense of a traditional

Christmas,” she said.

Most people that came to the storytelling event were local to Amherstburg, LaSalle and Windsor, she indicated.

“It’s a unique event,” said PougetPapak. “How often do you get to hear Dickens in a Victorian parlour?”

Pouget-Papak praised the efforts of Coughlin, who has been utilized for a number of Park House Museum events, adding that Perry and Kasurak were not advertised but were there as an extra attraction for those who attended.

The “Dickens’ A Christmas Carol” evenings will continue to be offered by the Park House Museum in coming years, Pouget-Papak continued.

“As long as the performers agree to perform, I will have a place for them,” she said.

The Park House Museum is nearing an end to its season but there are some events planned for the new year.

Additional paranormal events are planned and, looking ahead to March, a St. Patrick’s Day will be held.

The Park House Museum is located at 214 Dalhousie St. For more information, call 519-736-2511, visit www.parkhousemuseum.com or one of their social media sites.

Visit www.lasalle.ca/holidaylights for weekend programming including holiday night markets and visits from Santa!

Mayor Michael Prue is recovering after suffering a broken hip late last month, but expects to be fully recovered soon.

Prue fell while doing yard work at his home Nov. 25, fracturing his hip in the process.

The mayor was operated on two days later and was released from hospital last Thursday.

“The EMS was fantastic,” he said, estimating they arrived at his Boblo Island home roughly 15 minutes after the fall.

After transporting him off of the island, Prue was taken to Hotel-Dieu Hospital in Windsor.

The operation was around 2 p.m. Nov. 27 where a pin and a rod were inserted into his hip and Prue recalled waking up from the surgery shortly before 4 p.m.

“I’ve been doing physiotherapy since,” he said.

Staff at Hotel-Dieu Hospital was also described as “fantastic,” Prue added.

According to a news release issued by the Town of Amherstburg last Tuesday afternoon, Prue watched the first 45 minutes of the Nov. 27 town council due to “limited WiFi service at the hospital.”

Prue confirmed he was able to watch the first two delegates at the meeting and has been “getting caught up” on matters since then.

When needed, Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb has been filling Prue’s mayoral duties with the town’s news release

Mayor Michael Prue is recovering at his home following breaking his hip in a Nov. 25 fall. He had surgery Nov. 27 and was released last Thursday.

stating that was to ensure “the continuity of the town’s regular business.”

As of last Friday, Prue was able to use a walker and hopes be able to use a cane shortly.

In three to four weeks, he expects to be able to drive as the injury was to his right side.

“I should be fully recovered for Christmas,” said the mayor.

Prue was able to chair Monday night’s special council meeting, but did so via Zoom from his home while most other council members attended the meeting in person at town hall.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 7

www.rivertowntimes.com

The House Youth Centre thankful for $29,300 OTF grant funding

By Ron Giofu The House Youth Centre received $29,300 in Ontario Trillium Foundation grant funding and the area’s provincial representative got to hear what it was used for.

Board members with the House met with Essex MPP Anthony Leardi last Saturday afternoon where Leardi learned about the youth centre using the money to soundproof a wall and for new technical equipment to help with programming. The latter includes a sound system that can be transported to retreats or for events like the upcoming Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year and the House’s semi-formal.

Morghan Shearon, program director at The House, said she started working on the grant shortly after she was hired in July 2022 and they were notified the House Youth Centre was successful later in the year. With one year to complete the work, it was wrapped up in November 2023.

Shearon said the impact of the OTF grant can’t be overstated.

“This grant has allowed us to make new adjustments and renovations since moving to our new home in 2020,” said Shearon. “Our infrastructure and technology committee has worked hard to make these changes come to fruition.”

The House is grateful to the OTF for the grant funding, she added, and thanked them for seeing the value of the project.

Blanche Durocher, board chairperson with The House, said Bedal’s Plaster and Drywall did a great job in

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, House program director Morghan Shearon and Jane Shearon review a scrapbook.

The House Youth Centre held an open house last Saturday as a way to thank the Ontario Trillium Foundation for $29,300 in grant funding. Walls were soundproofed and new audio/visual equipment was purchased. Clockwise from bottom left: Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, House board president Blanche Durocher, board members Jamie Lucier, Sarah Van Grinsven and Destiny Hamel, House program director Morghan Shearon (seated) and Essex MPP Anthony Leardi.

carrying out the work. Shearon added many board members and volunteers stepped up to work on the project as well.

“We’ve had a lot of people put it all together,” she said.

Jamie Lucier, a board member helping work on the project, added a Macbook Air was included in the grant. Electronic door locks were also installed.

Durocher outlined the House’s journey over the last few years, from

their move from their long-time location at 247 Brock St. to their current home within the Amherstburg Community Hub, how they dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic and how they are bouncing back from the pandemic and raising funds.

Leardi congratulated The House for keeping the programming going during the COVID-19 pandemic and keeping the mission of founder Father John Ware moving forward.

“The Government of Ontario is

happy to assist through the Ontario Trillium Foundation,” Leardi stated.

Leardi pointed out Fr. Ware was not only a priest but a clinical psychologist. He said The House is “a place for young people to talk to each other and to receive positive guidance in life. This grant will help The House continue the good work Fr. Ware started over 50 years ago.”

The Essex MPP added not only does Amherstburg still have The House in its new locations, the town also gained “a fantastic condominium development” in its former location.

The House Youth Centre offers all youth, from Grade 8 and up, a welcoming environment where they can become leaders, choose activities that explore life, create friendships and give back to their community.

For more information on The House, visit www.thehouseyouthcentre.com or call 519-736-6511.

The River Town Times

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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Town council votes to end cheque registry pilot project

By Ron Giofu Having a cheque registry on the town council agenda is now a thing of the past.

Council members voted to end the tenmonth cheque registry pilot project during their meeting Nov. 27. Council members who supported ending the program cited a cost of over $14,000 to comply with the World Wide Web Consortium Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) as well as concerns over cybersecurity.

According to a report co-authored by director of corporate services/treasurer Tracy Prince and clerk/risk manager Kevin Fox, “the town has a robust internal controls environment which provides a number of redundant protections to ensure the organization’s well-being.”

The report later stated: “A cheque registry represents a summary of all financial transactions undertaken by the municipality in a given period. With this dataset, malicious actors may pose a risk to the municipality through phishing attempts designed to utilize this data in order to pass off as legitimate business interactions, and thereby gain entry to security infrastructure. Given the sophistication of associated bad actors the risk of such a breach should be treated as high to very high.”

No other municipality in WindsorEssex County provides a cheque registry, the report later stated. Chatham-Kent does not either, it also read.

Councillor Linden Crain was in favour of ending the pilot project effective immediately.

“We had a ten-month trial for the cheque registry where we all agreed it would be ten months. Over the past ten

months there have been no concerns with the cheque registry and the expenses we currently outlined,” said Crain.

Crain said he was concerned with the $14,400 annual cost for WCAG standards.

He also believed there were risks to the municipality.

“Staff, in my opinion, currently follow the process. I believe this gets into a little bit of micromanaging,” he said.

A process consists where a report is created, information is redacted for legal and confidentiality reasons, then it is remediated for accessibility compliance.

That is not the normal process for reports going to town council, said Crain.

“We currently have 32 financial policies in place that govern the activities of the corporation, a number of checks and balances that we are going through,” said Crain. “I’m not sure what other corporation, from a governance perspective, reviews every single cheque.”

Crain did not see the value in continuing the program, reiterating his belief that it is micromanaging and that there were no issues for the last ten months. He added he did not hear of this issue when knocking on doors, stating “the past is in the past” and there were also concerns over phishing activities by “malicious actors” attempting to gain financial data.

“If we can save taxpayer dollars, I’m happy to do so,” he said.

Councillor Peter Courtney said he made a motion last term to conduct an audit, which was done by KPMG. Courtney stated “there were cheques being cashed without proper authorization, over the allotted amount.”

The premise was to build trust among residents with the town based on past

Alleged road rage incident leads to charges

400 block of Alma St. at approximately 9 a.m. and observed this alleged altercation are asked to contact the Windsor Police Criminal Investigations Unit Amherstburg Detachment at 519-7368559, ext. 230.

People can also contact Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.

An Amherstburg man has been charged with assault in connection to a road rage incident.

According to the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, officers were called to the 400 block of Alma St. in Amherstburg for a report of an injured person. When officers arrived, police say they found a 63-year-old man suffering from injuries to his face.

Officers learned that the victim and the suspect, the latter being a 36-yearold man, were involved in an alleged road rage incident. According to police, the suspect followed the victim to a business on Alma St., where he allegedly assaulted the victim before fleeing the scene. The victim suffered non-lifethreatening injuries, police say.

Video surveillance in the area assisted in identifying the suspect and his vehicle.

The accused was arrested and charged with assault causing bodily harm. The incident was reported Nov. 27.

Police add this is an ongoing investigation, and ask that people that were in the

Accidents •A single vehicle reportedly struck a light pole in the 300 block of Ridgeview Pl N. Nov. 27. According to police, there were no serious injuries. The driver was issued a Provincial Offense Notice (PON) for careless driving.

•A single vehicle accident was reported in the 110 block of Alma St. Nov. 30 where a semi-truck was reported to have struck a light pole. The driver allegedly left the scene and was later located. Police add there were no serious injuries and that the driver was issued a PON for failing to report damage to property on highway.

•A single-vehicle accident was reported Nov. 30 where police say a vehicle struck a tree in the 6800 block of Concession 6 North. According to police, it was a medical issue and the driver was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. No PON was issued.

—All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment

issues.

“This spells it all out, where the cheques are, the money and where is it all going to,” said Courtney.

Courtney said there are “pros and cons” to keeping it as well as eliminating it. He wanted to know where information could be accessed and CAO Valerie Critchley said documentation could be put online.

Councillor Diane Pouget wanted the cheque registry to stay. She said 14 of the 15 years she has been on council, accounts payable was on the agenda. That “has never been reconsidered,” she stated, adding accounts payable was removed by previous administration before the council of the day could get it back.

Pouget had concerns with how policing costs and costs regarding staff departures were reflected.

“People in Amherstburg wanted accounts payable – the cheque registry – back. That’s exactly what this council did,” said Pouget. “We ran on being open and transparent and that’s what this does.”

Pouget said her phone “rings off the hook” when the cheque registry appears on the agenda.

“It is a very good way to try and regain trust for our new administration and council. That’s what people want and I think it’s a very small price to pay for being open, honest and accountable,” she said.

Councillor Don McArthur said the public needs to trust staff, and to do that “we have to tell the public we trust staff.”

“If we trust staff, we don’t need to put this online for everyone to see,” said McArthur, noting no other municipality does that.

McArthur said he attended a seminar

about the dangers of phishing and cybersecurity and those risks have to be taken seriously.

“If we say we need this so we can hold staff accountable so they are not doing bad things, we are sending a very disquieting message to the public and to staff. We’ve actually had a report in our strategic planning process that we need to mend fences with staff,” said McArthur.

McArthur asked if council could see the documents and ask their questions, with Fox saying that could happen but a concern is sharing it if the documents are not remediated.

Courtney would later vote in favour to stop to stop putting the cheque registry on the public agenda as “not every eye needs to see this stuff.” He said there were “no crazy anomalies” but still was interested in having council see the information.

Like McArthur, Courtney believed the $14,400 could be spent in other areas.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb asked about privacy breach and cybersecurity insurance, with Fox saying that is in place but premiums would go up if they had to access that insurance.

If the town’s insurer became aware that council “was advised of these serious risks” and continued with publicly publishing the document, Gibb wondered if the town could have difficulty in renewing the coverage going forward.

Fox said he didn’t want to speak on behalf of the insurer, but believed they would look at all activities and the cost would be based on associated risks.

Gibb, McArthur, Courtney and Crain were in support with Pouget opposed.

Mayor Michael Prue and Councillor Molly Allaire were absent.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 9

www.rivertowntimes.com

Kicks & Giggles ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, if you work or spend time with an introvert, reach out to him or her and strike up a conversation. This person may only need a little nudge to become a good friend.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, a friendly competition that may have started out lighthearted is now starting to transform into something a bit more competitive.

Dial it back a bit.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, things are starting to slow down in your life, and your to-do list has gotten shorter.

Expect things to ramp up again soon enough, but enjoy the break for now.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 This is a good week to begin something that you’ve been thinking about tackling, Cancer.

You’ll have pep in your step and others willing to lend a hand if it is needed.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, someone may offer you some honest feedback that is a little too raw for your ego at this point in time. You will simply have to take it with dignity and lick your wounds elsewhere.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 You need to be the driving force on a project that will pop up, Virgo. Even though you’re not sure of your readiness for this type of work, you can give it a good attempt.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Whatever you tackle this week, it shouldn’t revolve entirely around money, Libra. Finances may have gotten in the way of things for some time; focus now on relationships.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Don’t let a dream you had put you all in a tizzy, Scorpio. That was just your subconscious working through some things and not a prediction of things to come.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Don’t be shy about receiving credit for something that you did, Sagittarius. You deserve the recognition no matter how large or small the task. Celebrate all your victories.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 You may be coveting something of late, Capricorn. However, only when you stop actively wanting that thing or person will you finally get what you desire.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, your positive attitude is an asset in life. Even as challenges come your way this week, you can prove the naysayers wrong by maintaining your rosy outlook.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU Staff from Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC and Amherstburg Community Services stand with the Chevrolet Silverado that both groups are hoping the community can fill with non-perishable food items. The deadline to donate to the campaign, which benefits ACS’ food bank, is Dec. 18.

ACS, Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC team up to stock food bank

By Ron Giofu Residents of Amherstburg and surrounding areas are invited to help a local vehicle dealership fill a pickup truck with food donations.

Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC has partnered with Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) on a holiday food drive. A call has been put out to the community to fill a pickup truck in the dealership’s showroom with the food to be donated to the food bank operated out of ACS. “We’re collecting goods for the ACS food bank,” explained Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC co-owner Scott Elliott. “People can come in and drop off their food in the bed of the truck.”

Canned goods, dry goods and longlife items are welcome and the entire community can come in and drop items off.

“With grocery prices rising, things are tight this year,” said Elliott.

“Everyone’s expenses are going up.”

ACS and Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC have teamed up on other initiatives in the past, including toy drives, but they wanted to do a food drive this year. It is their first fundraiser together since the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s the first year back doing something like this,” said Elliott.

“It’s been good,” added Mike Bezzoubkin, co-owner of Amherstburg

Chevrolet Buick GMC. “People have been dropping off their food.”

ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo said any non-perishable food item is welcome. She added there are different needs in the community so a variety of food is encouraged.

“We are getting more calls,” said DiBartolomeo. “People want to see what help there is out there. Calls range from people of all ages.”

DiBartolomeo said this food drive not only helps feed people but it also brings awareness to the programming at ACS. She said ACS knows of people who were planning for retirement who have had to get part-time jobs to supplement their income. Others are trying to find money for Christmas presents, she added, noting the budgets for seniors are tight as it is.

Those who need aid from the food bank at ACS can call 519-736-5471 all year round and staff will guide them through a checklist so they can get their needs filled.

“We live in a fantastic community,” added Bezzoubkin. “The support is always there. We ask people to come out and give what they can.”

Donations are being accepted for the holiday food drive at Amherstburg Chevrolet Buick GMC until Dec. 18.

The dealership is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Monday through Friday and 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, standing up for yourself this week is challenging, but you need to do it to get your point across. Don’t worry, you have many supporters in your corner cheering you on.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS DECEMBER 3 - Ozzy Osbourne, Singer (75) DECEMBER 4 - Jay-Z, Rapper (54) DECEMBER 5 - Shalom Harlow, Model (50) DECEMBER 6 - Judd Apatow, Producer (56) DECEMBER 7 - Sara Bareilles, Singer (44) DECEMBER 8 - Dwight Howard, Athlete (38) DECEMBER 9 - Judi Dench, Actress (89)

WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to holiday baking.

ANSWERS ONPAGE PAGE ANSWERS ON 14 16

Plaza underway

A new plaza is underway on Sandwich St. South is underway.

The plaza, according to a site plan that was on a recent agenda for the Amherstburg accessibility advisory committee, will include four structures including three drive-thru restaurants. Proposed restaurants vary in size from 241.77 square metres, 208.91 square metres and 170.93 square metres. The plaza is proposed to be 736.21 square metres, according to the site plan.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Local school happy with recent “Giving Back” campaign Special to the RTT Amherstburg Public School students were very hard at work these past two weeks.

Leading up to the holidays, they participated in their annual “Giving Back” campaign.

The community really stepped up and showed us the true spirit of what the holidays are all about – giving.

Amherstburg Public School collected 2,090 non-perishable items for Amherstburg Community Services and over 150 toys to donate to Little Hands Kids for a Cause.

It was amazing to watch the front lobby fill up with so many generous donations these past two weeks.

The student parliament is amazing and they worked very hard in motivating classes via daily announcements, collecting items each morning and

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMHERSTBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL

Students at Amherstburg Public School were busy collecting food items for Amherstburg Community Services and toys for Little Hands Kids for a Cause during their recent two-week “Giving Back” campaign.

motivating students with the ultimate prize of a pizza party for the top divisional donating classes!

The school would like to thank our community for their tremendous efforts. Having students feel invested

in changing the lives of others for the better is truly the most magical part of this holiday season.

Despite bad weather, Homestead event well attended

By Fred Groves

Wooden toy maker Roger Bastien sets up his display on Sunday as part of the 12 Barns of Christmas.

Smells, sounds, sights and smiles were all part of Sunday’s “12 Barns of Christmas” at the John R. Park Homestead in Harrow.

Hosted by the Friends of the John R. Homestead, the historic site on County Road 50 that traces its origins back to 1833, rang in the festive season in style.

Nestled in the back of the horse barn was Ruprecht who along with his helper had set up a parlour complete with a tabletop Christmas tree. Decorations included the stringing of popcorn, which back in the early 1800’s would represent snow.

“Ruprecht was a German assistant to St. Nicholas. He was in charge of the naughty or nice list,” said volunteer

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Paul Hager who portrayed Ruprecht.

The main house of the Homestead is undergoing extensive renovations which meant it was closed to visitors on the weekend but some of the periodic furniture was available throughout the out-buildings to view.

There was a scavenger hunt, Children’s games, a chance to see a couple of Shetland ponies with their decorative ribbons and bells and lots of vendors who had interesting wares for sale.

One of those was Roger Bastien from Windsor who occupied a large building with what was billed as Christmas presents of the Past.

“I build furniture and I had all this extra wood. Instead of burning it all I decided to make toys,” said Bastien.

Continued on Page 13

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 11

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Admirals fall 5-2 to visiting Dresden Kings

By Fred Groves It is the mid-way point through the regular season and the Amherstburg Admirals continue to struggle.

The Admirals lost 5-2 to the Dresden Kings last Saturday night at the Libro Centre. Amherstburg’s Provincial Junior Hockey League (Junior ‘C’) record now sits at 4-17-0-0 after 21 games into the 42-game schedule.

Although they did not come out on the winning side of the scoreboard, the Admirals outshot the Kings 42-35 which was a positive for head coach Beau Hunter.

Asked what he liked thus far at the mid-way point, he noted, “I like our goal scoring.”

“We are getting a lot more shots and better chances.

Today they just didn’t go in. We are getting more offensive chances.”

After the Kings came out hot and rattled the iron past Amherstburg goalie Josh Courtney 20 seconds into the game, Jacob Archer put the Admirals up 1-0 with his team-leading 11th of the season. Jackson Arcand scored to tie it for the Kings.

It was all Dresden in the early going of the middle frame as Brady Robertson and then back-to-back goals by Owen Campbell, all within less than three minutes, gave the Kings a big 4-1 lead. That sent

Amherstburg defenceman (24) Jadyn Brown moves in to get the puck against Dresden during Saturday’s game.

Courtney to the bench in favour of rookie Joe Costea.

“It’s been the same thing all year – staying focused in the game mentally. We need to fight through advertising and keep battling,” said Hunter.

One thing the Admirals have improved on over the course of the first half of the season, is their forechecking and playing a more physical game.

Big hits by Charlie Coristine, Drake McGowan and captain Derek Berdusco helped keep the Kings

penned in their own end most of the night. It was the first game back after a long injury for McGowan.

“It’s nice to have a physical presence in the lineup,” said Hunter of McGowan.

Down 4-1 after the second break, Amherstburg’s Stefan Jacobs, who was a scoring threat all night, burst down the left side and just seven seconds into a Dresden powerplay, snapped one over Joseph Malinowski’s shoulder.

“He’s an amazing player,” said Hunter of the second-year winger Jacobs. “He stays focused and he’s got the speed to do it. The net is starting to look a little bigger for him.”

Anderson Koziol scored in the third for the visitors. In the third Amherstburg was without Connor Demelo who went down with an injury and Coristien who was ejected for fighting.

The Admirals travel to Mooretown to face the Flags on Saturday night and then host the same team the next night beginning at 7:30 p.m.

SLAPSHOTS: Former Admirals blueliner Logan Graziano, now with the Kings, did not suit up due to an injury… Saturday night’s game was delayed with 7:37 left to play in the third when poor ice conditions on Rink A forced the remainder of the contest over to Rink B.

North Star girls hockey team splits first two regular season games Lajuenesse 2 Wolves 1 The North Star Wolves girls hockey team got their season underway with a road game in Windsor vs. Lajuenesse Nov. 28.

The first period was a little scrambly with lots of expected nervousness in our play. The team settled down more in the 2nd period, but Lajuenesse opened the scoring with a perfect shot at 9:21 of the second period. The Wolves tied it with a power play goal by Ashley Mongeau assisted by Laia Weigel with seconds to go in the period. The Wolves continued to press in the third and had many great opportunities to score including a couple that we were sure they were going in.

Not sure how they stayed out but that’s the game. Then at 4:26 of the third period Lajuenesse scored a fluke goal to pull ahead.

Once again, we had many chances to tie the game, but strong goaltending held us off the sheet. Our goaltender Carsyn Atkinson held us in the game and gave us a chance to win but we had some tough luck around the net. The coaches said after the game that it was a pretty good effort for our first game together. There were many great passing sequences throughout the game which showed a willingness to play as a team. That’s very encouraging and nice to see so early in the season. Definitely something to build on.

The player of the game and 1st caretaker of our Mascot “Henry the Hedgehog” was

North Star’s Skylar Dion (77, right) gets a scoring chance on Brennan goalie Sophia Lyons during the third period of Monday afternoon’s game. North Star won 5-1. RTT Photo by Ron Giofu

June Buchner for her great defensive play.

Great effort June.

Once again, this year we feature a very young team with nine new players including seven Grade 9’s and two Grade 10’s. We would also like to welcome back Madison Drouillard after a one-year absence. Madison, Hanna Coulson and Carsyn Atkinson will be providing much needed leadership and guidance for this very young team. The coaching staff look forward to watching this group continue to improve as the season goes on. Go Wolves.

Wolves 5 Brennan 1 The Wolves played their home opener Monday afternoon and downed the Brennan Cardinals 5-1 at the Libro Centre.

After Brennan scored on their first shot,

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it was all North Star after that. Abby Souchereau and June Buchner scored later in the first period while Hanna Coulson scored in the second. Julia Mailloux had two for the Wolves, with her goals being in the second and third periods.

“I thought we played a good game,” said Coulson. “We got off to a rough start but then we got comfortable.”

Drouillard said their passing was well and they were close to picking up rebounds but were not in the right spots.

Coulson said they are getting better together while Drouillard added “we want to win everything.”

Coach Dan Pettypiece said they have a different kind of team this year, noting this is the first time in many years he had to make cuts prior to the season. A total of

31 kids tried out, he said, with some who were on the team last year unable to crack the lineup this year due to an influx of young talent. Those were tough decisions as the players from last year gave “100 per cent effort,” but there wasn’t a spot for them this year.

If those players return next year and prove the coaches wrong, Pettypiece said he is fine with that.

“I haven’t had to do those kinds of cuts in about 30 years,” he said.

While the cuts were tough mentally, he said the coaches are willing to live with those decisions. He said they tried to prepare the kids knowing a situation like that was coming.

“Enjoy it while you’re here because you just never know,” said Pettypiece.

The defense is primarily Grade 9 players and Pettypiece added some have to play out of position. He said they have to adapt and the coaches have to be patient with them as more experienced teams will likely make them pay for their mistakes.

The Wolves have a higher skill level this season, he added, and they have to build on each game.

The Wolves are play St. Joseph today (Dec. 6) at the WFCU Centre in Windsor at 3:20 p.m. with the Kingsville Cavaliers coming to the Libro Centre next Monday for a 3:30 p.m. game.

—Report for game vs. Lajeunesse submitted by Dan Pettypiece, report for Brennan game written by Ron Giofu

@rivertowntimes

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 12

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Wednesday, December 6 – River Town Times – 13

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McGregor community comes together to learn what is available

Alice in Wonderland

The Rivertown Dance Academy presented an Aspirant Ballet Company production of “Alice in Wonderland” with friends, family and supporters of the studio attending at St. Thomas of Villanova’s Festival Theatre.

More photos are available on our social media sites.

Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley (left), gets some information from Sarah Werstein of Windsor-Essex Crime Stoppers last Tuesday evening.

By Fred Groves The Village of McGregor has the distinction of being in two municipalities – Essex and Amherstburg.

Fourteen community groups and businesses came together to provide a plethora of information to the public at the McGregor Community Centre last Tuesday evening.

It was organized by Essex Councillor Kim Verbeek, who said she put the event together so those who live in the community know what is available to them as far as municipal services, social groups and businesses.

“It helps to connect the community,” said Verbeek.

It was the inaugural outreach get together and the Essex councillor is certain to have it again and she explained why it was needed.

“I had people asking me if there was a food bank in McGregor. A lot of people don’t know about Gagnon Salvage. It’s a treasure having them here in town.”

Gagnon began in 1987 and is located on Grondin Place in McGregor. The company specializes in salvage and sale where you can buy refurbished building materials as well as bin and equipment rentals.

Some of the work it has done in the past include removing all the exterior brick from the Essex County Civic Centre and the removal of four interior levels of the old Windsor Star building while maintaining the façade. On that

project they used high-tech vibration monitors.

“I was shocked that people didn’t know about all the businesses and services that are right here in our community,” noted Verbeek.

The well attended event constantly saw a stream of visitors and was also attended by Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy and Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley.

Having the village governed by two different municipalities (the dividing line is right down the middle of Walker Road) is not as big of an issue as some may think, according to Verbeek.

“There are some infrastructure challenges. We know that, but the current councils are beginning to address that and it’s a good thing.”

One of the businesses on hand was Tailwaggers from Amherstburg.

Owners Ron and Lori Dufour were anxious to talk about their Bed and Breakfast for small breed dogs which promises a Goodnight Kiss for all its residents.

Sarah Werstein of Crime Stoppers set up an information booth about the valuable service that the non-profit group has in helping combat crime in the region.

“It’s important to spread the message,” said Werstein.

Amherstburg Community Services, Essex Optimist Club, Essex County Library and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul were some of the other information booths set up.

Holiday event at John R. Park Homestead Continued on Page 10 the Iler Settlement in 1833. By 1842

One of his first and favourite was a long truck and there was a threefoot long fire truck complete with an extending three-foot ladder. Cars, planes and even trains are all part of his collection that continues to grow in creativity and imagination.

“It’s all reclaimed barn board, none of it is pallet wood. Some of it comes from a barn in Ridgetown.”

A lot of his toys have many pieces and he says it is hard to tell how long it takes to make some of them because he takes his time and works on it when he is not busy making furniture.

The Park family settled on the property in what was then known as

the house that sits next to Lake Erie was built.

The Friends of the John R. Park Homestead, which hosts events such as the 12 Barns of Christmas, started in the 1990’s.

In 2007 the Essex Region Conservation Authority bought the historic site from the province.

At its recent annual general meeting, the Friends of the John R. Park Homestead contributed $5,000 to the main house renovation project.

Next up at the Homestead will be the Maple Syrup Festival in March.

The site is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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Wednesday, December 6 – River Town Times – 15

Community Calendar

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSEUM; Held at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 277 King St., starting at 7 p.m. Featuring music from Josh Johnson. Tickets $30, includes music, refreshments and silent auction.

Concert in Nazrey AME Church. For info call 519-736-5433. For tickets, visit http:// amherstburgfreedom.org/CAM. WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 A.L.S. (LOU GEHRIG’S) PASTA DINNER; All you can eat pasta, salad & bun with coffee or tea for $15 at the Caboto Charity Pasta Night from 4 -7 p.m. Mark your calendar and come join the A.L.S. Society of (Windsor) Essex County as we host this event. Eat in or take out is available for delicious pasta with meat or vegetarian sauce. All funds remain in our area to help provide equipment to those living with A.L.S. and to support research. More information (519) 564-7172.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13 & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 CHRISTMAS CANTATA; “Have You Heard?

A Celtic Christmas Celebration” by Joel Raney.

Join our music director Matthew Kulbacki and the St. Andrew’s Choir for our annual Christmas Cantata at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.)! Wednesday, December 13 at 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, December 17 at 10:30 a.m.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 FREE COMMUNITY TURKEY DINNER; The McGregor Squirettes of Mary hosting 27th annual community turkey dinner at Columbian Club Hall (9560 Walker Rd) in McGregor.

Reservations to dine in can be made online at https://forms.gle/wshutodngAidDiHx7 while take-out meals can be reserved at https://forms.gle/ndFAZyRGG61zNPDM8.

Sponsored by KOC #2844. People can also call Rose Renaud at 519-919-5318 for assistance in placing an order. Home delivery in the McGregor area will be provided for those physically unable to drive-up. Runs from

3-6 p.m. Donations accepted.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23 & SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24 CHRISTMAS AT ENCOUNTER CHURCH; Celebrate the joy of Christmas at Christmas Eve services. Two identical services being held Dec. 23 at 4 p.m. and Dec. 24 at 10:30 a.m. Church is located at 125 Alma St. Everyone is welcome to this family service.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24 CHRISTMAS EVE AT ST. ANDREW’S PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH; Christmas Eve Sunday worship service at 10:30 a.m., candlelight service at 7 p.m. Church located at 129 Simcoe St., at Bathurst St. For info, call 519-736-4972.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24 CANDLELIGHT SERVICE; Christmas Eve candlelight service being held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church starting at 6 p.m.

Church is located on Concession 3 North, at the corner of Alma St. MONDAY, DECEMBER 25 CHRISTMAS AT THE MISSION; Free hot turkey dinner served at the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission (298 Victoria St. S.) from 12-1 p.m. Special thanks to the support of individuals and companies for helping to make this possible.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18 DUELLING PIANOS EVENT; Benefits Rotary Ghana Mission. Duelling Pianos is a unique, high energy and audience interactive show.

Two pianos and two musicians play, sing and entertain. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the chefs at the Windsor Yacht Club. Proceeds to fund water wells, medical and literacy projects in Ghana. Windsor Yacht Club is located at 9000 Riverside Dr. East in Windsor.

Tickets $100, $950 for table of ten. Starts at 6 p.m. For tickets or info, call Kim Spirou at 519551-3747 or e-mail kspirou@hotmail.ca.

ONGOING 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.

the Libro Recreation Centre is 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 website (www. goldenagecentre.ca) to see how to join, COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; participate, and learn how we support our Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. community.

Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation). ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 519-736-5471 for assistance.

4:30-6:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood.com. invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come meet BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen others in the community and enjoy some good Association continues to accept donations food. No registration required. Lighthouse of empty beer and wine bottles. People who Church is located at 266 King St. (entrance off wish to donate their empties can drop them off Gore St.). at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting mental health and counselling services at The FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday Optimist Club seeking donors to join the from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the “Founders Club.” Donors help fund general ages of 12-25. The House is located at 320 operations fund of the camp. Donors with Richmond St. For details, call 519-800-8640. gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food property sponsored in their name. Multiple and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., squares available. Tax receipts provided. For open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open 7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519- AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; 736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. 5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, All donations welcome.

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16– River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

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Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 17

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DISASTER RECOVERY ASSISTANCE Essex On August 23, 2023, a series of thunderstorms passed through southwestern Ontario, causing significant damage. The Ontario government is activating the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program in certain areas of the riding.

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DRAO Program Activation Area

Who can apply?

• Homeowners (primary residence only) and residential tenants • Small, owner-operated businesses • Small, owner-operated farms • Not-for-profit organizations Deadline to apply is March 27, 2024.

For more information about who is eligible and how to apply, email disasterassistance@ontario.ca, call 1-877-822-0116, or contact my office for assistance.

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18 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

John Thomson Paterson

of Amherstburg, Ontario November 29, 1937 – November 28, 2023 Peacefully, in his 86th year surrounded by his loving family.

John leaves behind his beloved wife Irene of 60 years. Loving father to Bruce (predeceased), Katrina (Derek), and Gordon (Jill). Cherished brother of James Bready Paterson of Edinburgh, Scotland. John was born November 29, 1937, to James and Margaret Paterson in Edinburgh, Scotland.

After John graduated from Leith Academy in 1955, he flourished in the apprenticeship program at Ferranti Ltd., a firm of electrical engineers specializing in defense electronics and early computer development. Having risen to every challenge and exceeded all expectations at Ferranti, John was awarded a full scholarship to study electrical engineering at Heriot-Watt College. In 1961 John arrived in London to work in radar research and technology at EMI. It was a Saturday night dance in March when he met and fell in love with Irene and their adventure began. John and Irene married in 1963 and had three children. In 1974 the family moved to Canada. John began his Canadian career at Bell Northern Research in Ottawa as a member of the team that pioneered the advancement of telephone communications into the digital realm. John’s pursuit of research and technology led the way to a position with NASA in 1997, a chance to fulfill his boyhood dream of working on rocket ships. John’s career culminated with his contributions to the development and final production of Boeing’s 787, The Dreamliner in 2012.

Boeing awarded John a Technical Fellowship in recognition of his leadership, dedication, and contributions prior to his retirement. Throughout his retirement, John lived his mantra, “Stay smart all day.” He continued to explore and experiment with all possibilities tinkering away hours in the basement taking breaks to put paintbrush to canvas.

Friends will be received at the James H. Sutton Funeral Home, 401 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, on Saturday, December 9, 2023 from 1 to 4 p.m. Following cremation, John will be interred at Greenwood Cemetery in Halton Hills with a memorial service to follow, date to be determined.

His family extends their utmost gratitude to the medical staff and volunteers at the Erie Shores Hospice in Leamington Ontario and the Windsor Regional Cancer Center. John would have loved it if you made donations to War Amps or Sam Day Foundation in his memory.

You may share your memories or make a memorial donation online at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca

MARTIN, Norman Antoine May 26, 1937 - November 28, 2023

Will be missed by mate Rita Walpole, devoted companion and caretaker for over 26 years. Predeceased by parents Ernest and Cecile, and siblings Margaret Buhlman (2019), Louis Morin (2018), Mary Louise Chibi (2020).

Father of Cindy Martin, Ernie, Gloria Bondy (2020), Mary Ann Martin and Ian Valentine.

Grandfather of Crystal, Michael, Christopher, Holly, Ernie Jr., Frank, Colton and Amanda. Great grandfather of Skylar, Callen, Ava, Melissa, Kelly, Danica, Cillian and Wednesday. Norm worked 33 years for Public Works Amherstburg and has been retired 21 years. As per Norm’s wishes cremation has taken place. Arrangements entrusted to the James H Sutton Funeral Home. You may share memories of Norm with his family at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca

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BOTTOS, Adelle Marie (nee Zilkowsky)

April 16,1953 – November 26, 2023 Beloved wife and best friend of Jerry. Loving mom to Jason (Shara) Lavallee, Tyler, Audrey (Kevin) Humaniski, and Tara (Donnie) Daudlin. Loving Grandma to Gloria, Elizabeth (Steven), Jordan (Emmie), Jessi (Joe), and great grandma to Finley, Hadley, Owen, Steven, Nevaeh and Jukka.

Dear sister to Lisa (late Earl) Edwards, Darell Zilkowsky, Tim Zilkowsky (Kim), Roger Zilkowsky, and Heather Rioux (Jen), Paul, and sister-in-law to Cathy (Ken) Kostick, and Donna (Fred) Scheibler. Dear aunt to Jesse, Christopher, Gates, Emma, Miranda, Sarah, Graham, and Samantha.

Adelle was a talented seamstress with an infectious smile.

She enjoyed cruising in their ‘56 Chevy Bel Air with Jerry, listening to music and enjoying life. She welcomed everyone and accepted people as they were. Special thanks to the wonderful staff at Sun Parlor in Leamington for the excellent care they provided to Adelle, it was very much appreciated.

At Adelle’s request, cremation has taken place. Memorial visitation will be held at the James H Sutton Funeral Home, 401 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg on Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m.

In kindness, memorial donations to Parkinson Canada, the Salvation Army, or any charity of your choice would be appreciated.

You may leave your condolences or make a memorial donation online at www.jhsuttonfuneral.caonline at www. jhsuttonfuneral.ca

Mary Anne Grant (nee Parker) December 5, 1938 – November 29, 2023

It’s with heavy hearts the family of Mary Anne Grant announces her passing on November 29, 2023 at the age of 84.

Beloved wife of 55 years to Ron Grant. Cherished mother to Jill Grant (Rob) and Kevin Grant (Sarah-Jane).

Predeceased by her siblings Alfred Parker, Cecil Parker (Elaine), Doreen Stanley, and Margaret Fitzmaurice (Norman) and her parents Edward and Gertrude Parker.

Thank you to Mary Anne’s niece, Mary Ellen Fitzmaurice, whose care and compassion will always be cherished by the entire family.

Melonie Baylis stands with her goods she sold as part of her booth at the Winter Market held last Saturday.

Winter Market presented by downtown business group

By Ron Giofu A local business group brought local businesses, nonprofits and other vendors together for a winter market last weekend.

The Core, a collaboration of downtown Amherstburg businesses, presented a winter market last Saturday in the parking lot owned by Dan Gemus on Ramsay St., between Murray St. and Richmond St. Anna Marano, co-owner of The Panetteria, said she helped organize the event along with local investor Lauri Brouyette, Esther Reaume from White Woods Home and Terra Green Gardens home Jodi McLean. She said they were happy with the turnout, adding they had an “amazing group of vendors” that came out. There were a good variety of vendors and small businesses on hand, she believed.

There were 22 vendors on site at the height of the event.

“I think everyone had a good time,” said Marano.

Vendors included non-profit groups, such as the Park House Museum. Marano said they wanted to show residents and visitors what small businesses are in the area.

“That was the purpose,” she said.

Melonie Baylis came in from Harrow to be a vendor.

“I love the small, community markets,” said Baylis.

“Since I’m from the county, I had to give back.”

Baylis said she saw a lot of returning customers and was pleased they could stay closer to home to visit and buy from her. She added she would “absolutely” come back to the winter market.

Mary Lippert from Sweet Moments Cookie Co. said she believed the winter market went well for her.

“There’s been a steady flow of people,” said Lippert.

“It’s been good.”

Lippert said it was the start of a busy December for her and her small business, as she has a dozen events booked for this month.

“We’re super busy, which is good,” said Lippert.

Tammy Joho of Soca Sewing and artist Matthew Zaidan were also part of the market.

“I think it went really well overall. It was my first time sharing my artwork publicly in town since moving here, and I got some really great feedback and made some sales,” said Zaidan. “It was also nice to just hang out and chat with our neighbours, some of whom we had never met before.”

Mary Anne will also be dearly missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Mary Anne made the selfless decision to leave her career to focus on raising her family. She was the strength and heart of the family, providing unwavering support, love, and a little teasing.

Mary Anne was a woman of many talents. She excelled in anything she set her mind to. Her favourite place was undoubtedly home, where she created a haven of love and comfort for her family.

As per her wishes, cremation has taken place.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations in memory of Mary Anne can be made to the Hotel Dieu Grace Healthcare Foundation or to Transition to Betterness (T2B) and would be greatly appreciated by the family.

Tammy Joho of Soca Sewing and artist Matthew Zaidan were among the 22 vendors at the Winter Market held last Saturday. The market was presented by The Core.

Wednesday, December 6, 2023 – River Town Times – 19

www.rivertowntimes.com

No reconsideration to procedural bylaw

Continued from Page 5 passed due to “a little bit of political

“We really need to make sure we are providing transparent governance and notice of the information being delegated on in advance,” he said. “If council decides to make decisions based on questions being brought forth from the audience and on the fly, we’re not doing our due diligence and research on items being passed.”

Crain said there are multiple ways to reach council members if they have concerns.

Councillor Don McArthur joined Crain in not supporting the motion.

“The time to have this debate was Aug. 14,” he said.

McArthur said he was expecting a debate that night and had his arguments prepared including to have factual debates and to hear from everyone. He initially thought it was a restrictive document but later found it to be “a very freeing procedural bylaw.” He added staff’s time is valuable and that means informed debates based on reports.

Having people put up their hands may look like democracy in action, but McArthur believed it is the opposite because it doesn’t allow for informed discussions as staff is “highjacked” and forced to answer serious questions on the fly without information at their fingertips.

“That’s unfair to them and the ratepayers that pay their salaries,” he said.

McArthur also called for more time for the bylaw to work and if changes have to be made in the future, they can be made.

He questioned making changes three months after the bylaw was unanimously

pressure.”

People have over a week to sign up for a delegation due to the agenda being released earlier, he indicated. McArthur added he has no problem with having it be a unanimous vote for a person to speak, stating he wants to hear from people about an issue on the agenda and that unanimous vote “puts some teeth into the procedural bylaw.”

Pouget added she was released from the hospital Aug. 14, adding “I’m the first one to admit that I passed this, I didn’t speak against it, but I know when I made a mistake. I know when I made a mistake and I’m trying to rectify it.” According to Pouget, Amherstburg has the most restrictive policy in the region.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said he was surprised council was discussing the matter, noting it passed unanimously Aug. 14. He said they have an obligation to the public to be clear on what they are going to discuss and it is debate should focus on what is on the agenda.

“It’s no secret we have a bit of a divided council so I think maybe forcing ourselves to find unanimity is probably a good exercise for us. It forces us to work together,” said Gibb, on the need to have a unanimous vote to allow someone from the audience to speak.

The motion to amend the bylaw also failed on a 3-2 vote with Gibb, Crain and McArthur opposed and Pouget and Courtney in favour.

A motion to allow a person from the audience to speak on the matter failed due to the lack of a unanimous vote.

Accessible Taxi Pilot Program The Town is currently accepting applications to enroll into an ON-DEMAND ACCESSIBLE TAXI SERVICE Grant Program.

The successful accessible taxi service provider may be awarded grant funding based on the outlined eligibility qualifications.

First-come, first-served.

For more information regarding the program contact, licensing@amherstburg.ca or call 519-736-0012 Extension 2251

FREE Ages 12 and under

RECREATION YOUTH NIGHT with the

ADMIRALS Saturday, December 16

Bring a non-perishable food donation for

Turf Time with the Admirals 5:00 pm-5:45 pm Additional Turf Time with the Rec Staff until 7:30 pm FREE admission to the game at 7:30 pm (parents required to pay ticket price) Skate with the Admirals after the game - parents welcome!

Wear your favourite festive attire Pre-register to participate.

Call (519) 736-5712 or go online at townofamherstburg.perfectmind.com

20 – River Town Times – Wednesday, December 6, 2023

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Ontario Activates Disaster Recovery for those affected by the storms on Aug 23-25, 2023 MORE INFO amherstburg.ca/ OntarioAssistance Sun

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Visit the Gingerbread Warming House Open every Friday, Saturday & Sunday 5:30-8:30PM until Dec 23.

Toddy Jones Park

Hot Chocolate provided by Tim Hortons Amherstburg

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Thurs

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Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting 5PM Town Hall

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8 Sat 9 FREE Beginner Skating Swimming at 11:30-12:20PM Movati in Public Skating December 12:30-2:20PM preregister to attend. $4/person or amherstburg.ca/ $12/family(max 5) swim Youth Skating space limited 4-4:50PM

14 Fri Mon 11 Tues 15 Sat 13 Thurs 12 Wed 16 Special InHeritage Face Painting Committee of Budget Open 12:30-2:30PM Camera Council Committee FriSanta 15 House non-perishable Adjustment Meeting 5:00 Meeting Shout food donation Libro Centre Regular Council 8AM Town Hall 5:30PM Libro Centre Out! 6-8PM Meeting Town Hall Youth Night with 6PM Town Hall talktheburg.ca/ Drainage Board 6 PM Check out our the Admirals 266 Dalhousie budget Meeting Holiday Craft Cart Drop-In Pre-Register Make a card in the 6PM Town Hall Holiday Schedule visitamherstburg.ca 519-736-5712 Libro Centre lobby! amherstburg.ca/ Meals on Wheels No Public Recycle recreation Skating Today!

Nov 20-Dec 20 Mon 18 Audit & Finance Advisory Committee Meeting 5PM Town Hall

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22 Sat 23 2024 Dog Tags Registeryourfamilyfor All Municipal River Lights WinterProgramming Offices available online open every today! will be CLOSED LAST DAY! LEARN MORE night of the week! effective Dec 23 Gingerbread warming about New townofamherstburg. and will reopen house 5:30-8:30pm Rens Pets Promo perfectmind.com Jan 3, 2024!

Pick up your amherstburg.ca/ Gingerbread house doglicensing submissions today!

Monday garbage will be picked up Saturday Dec 23 Thurs

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Santa Shout Out FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15 · 6 PM to 8 PM

Ho Ho Ho, Santa is coming to downtown Amherstburg! Don’t miss our Santa Shout Out on December 15th next to the Gordon House at 266 Dalhousie Street. Santa Claus will be in our globe reading out Christmas stories and your child’s Christmas wish.

Come enjoy holiday music, view the light displays and spread holiday cheer!

Proudly sponsored by:

visitamherstburg.ca/riverlights Visit our website for more event details!

visitamherstburg

visitamherstbrg

519-736-0012 • www.amherstburg.ca 271 Sandwich St. South, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2A5