River Town Times - February 7, 2024

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Fort Fun Centre re-opening soon

Wednesday, February 7, 2024

By Ron Giofu The Fort Fun Centre is coming back.

The business, which closed in the Spring of 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic, is re-opening under new management and while the actual date it will open its doors has not been revealed, the business’ new owners are “aggressively” trying to have it ready for the public as soon as possible.

Christian Fournier, president and CEO of Tanggo Companies Inc., said he and his group of ten partners are eagerly trying to bring the business back and will offer very similar programs and games as it had when it closed nearly three years ago.

“Everything is pretty well here from the day they left,” said Fournier.

The “Barracks” restaurant is returning, as are other features such as the six-lane bowling alley, the arcade, party rooms and laser tag “combat area,” with other features planned as well. Fournier said the arcade game supplier is ready to return, and is looking forward to coming back to Amherstburg.

The 25,156 square foot facility will largely look the same when it reopens, though Fournier said painting and updating are planned. He said after the Fort Fun Centre re-opens, they will likely make some “tweaks” such as possibly converting the banquet hall area at the north end of the building to a sports simulation area.

The Off the Wall Kids facility in London is operated by the same group and Fournier noted it is geared towards younger children. That is about half the size of The Fort Fun Centre, he added.

“We’ve always wanted to expand into something for older youth and adults,” said Fournier.

They hope to create a “hub” between the two facilities and offer programming and games for people of all ages. He added they were notified of the opportunity in Amherstburg and decided to jump on it.

Continued on Page 2

The Fort Fun Centre is reopening soon under new management. (Above photo) Tanggo Companies Inc. president and CEO Christian Fournier (right), Greg Harter (left) and a group of about ten other partners are leasing the building and plan to have it re-open to the public soon.

(Right) Much of what was in the building prior to its closure in 2021 is still there including murals. The Fort Fun Centre is located at 689 Texas Road, in the building that formerly housed The Verdi Club.

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Costs of new Amherstburg fire hall a topic of debate at town council

By Ron Giofu The cost of the new fire station was a topic of debate at the most recent meeting of town council with figures ranging from $9.5 million to $28 million depending on which council member was speaking.

Councillor Diane Pouget believed the new fire hall, to be built on the Libro Centre grounds near the intersection of Simcoe St. and Meloche Road, will cost more than the originally stated price of $9.5 million once it is debentured.

“The public should be aware the new fire hall will actually cost our taxpayers a whopping $28 million with 30 years of debentures,” she said.

Pouget said she voted against this “outrageous expenditure” along with Councillor Molly Allaire and Councillor Peter Courtney “believing we could have built a smaller hall similar to other municipalities” at a cheaper price.

“Of course, we were defeated with a famous four against three vote,” she said.

Pouget added: “The ongoing cost has a monumental negative effect on our budgets and I think council should reconsider this outrageous expenditure immediately.”

Mayor Michael Prue said he doesn’t take umbrage with Pouget’s remarks, but stated the fire hall will cost $9.5 million.

“If you look at comparisons, which I’ve looked at the ‘University of Facebook,’ people are sending around $24 million. That is, if you amortize it at seven per cent over 30 years, that’s how much it’s going to cost,” said Prue. “But nobody – nobody – said a word about

LaSalle going to amortize theirs over 30 years and how much it’s going to cost.

Nobody said a word about the one in B.C. that they’re asking for permission to amortize that in what’s that going to cost. The actual cost in all three municipalities is about $1 million of each other.”

Prue said municipalities have to borrow if they don’t have the cash on hand for such builds.

“Let’s be honest and realistic here. It costs money and if you don’t have it, you have to pay the bank,” said Prue.

Pouget asked for clarification from Prue and wanted to know if he was saying the fire hall would not cost $28 million. He responded by saying it would cost that if fully amortized at $9.5 million over 30 years at seven per cent “but hold on, a number of things might happen before then.”

The mayor said Station 3 in Malden Centre could be sold and he estimated the town could get $1 million for that.

Station 1 could be sold as well due to the building not meeting AODA requirements.

“There may be money available from other levels of government. We may be looking at $6-7 million. We may be able to take some out of reserves, and no, I would be absolutely shocked if we end up paying $24 million and I would end up thinking the treasurer and chief weren’t doing their jobs if we end up paying that much.”

Pouget said she reported what was said during budget deliberations with treasurer Tracy Prince stating the estimated cost was $10 million used to project those numbers.

“We needed to get approvals

so we could move forward with the RFP,” she said. “In projections, we provided that disclosure.”

If a debenture was over 30 years for the full amount, she said it would come out to $950,000 per year, or $28.5 million over 30 years. She added senior managers will try to mitigate those costs by looking at other funding sources.

“We’re looking at potentially can we look at accessing some of our DC’s (development charges) to fund it. Can we get some grants to fund it? Is there another grant coming available when it’s time to go to debenture?” she said.

“We’re going to try and lengthen the time before I go to debenture.”

Prince said “it is no different than if you mortgaged your house. Say you had a $500,000 house and you had an interest rate of five per cent, by the end of 30 years, you paid $960,000 for that house. It’s the same theory.”

The treasurer added “we will look to reduce it the best we can.”

Fire chief Bruce Montone said the tender has not gone out yet. He said a pre-qualification has been done with 11 contractors interested in bidding on a tender and seven of those were approved.

“That tender will be going out next month,” said Montone, estimating the results will be coming back in April.

Later in the meeting, Pouget asked that town council be provided with “a complete report” at the next public meeting on the “current status of the new proposed fire hall, including but not limited to the costs to date, the final costs with 30 years of debentures and any and all pertinent information relating to this new project.”

Prue asked if the report was coming and wanted to know when, with Montone stating town council received a report in March 2023 with a cost comparison report from the consultant at a cost of $15,000. He said the final design, based on council’s review and $1 million in cost reductions, was put forth to town council at that meeting.

Montone added the bidders will have at least one month after the tender is issued to review it. After that, the tender will be brought to town council “along with the status of the $511,400 that was approved two years ago to move forward with the design, development and creation of the tender. We have not exceeded that budget to date.”

Any expenses associated both with the consultant’s work and the work the town had to carry out to assist the consultant will be brought forward in April. Total cost and opportunities for revenue will be part of that report, the fire chief stated.

Montone said he didn’t believe he could meet the timeline for the next meeting as he didn’t know what the tender document would read. Prue said it couldn’t be done anyway as it would require a reconsideration of a March 2023 motion and Pouget voted in opposition thus couldn’t ask for a reconsideration.

The mayor stated “it’s coming back in April anyway” and while no motion of reconsideration came from those who supported the March 2023 resolution, Prue said Pouget would still get the information she requested, but in April instead of February.

“You’re getting everything you want, just a month later,” Prue told Pouget.

London-based group leases building, to re-open Fort Fun Centre

Continued from Page 1

“The hope is for a very quick turnaround to get it open,” said Fournier.

“We want to make sure everyone’s first experience is a good one.”

Exterior features like the beach volleyball courts will be relocated to the back of the building but Fournier added the outside pavilion, known as the “Bunker,” will be brought down because it sits on the property line and the rear portion of the property has been severed and redeveloped for housing.

The building has been leased, said Fournier, and the new business owners have the rights to the name.

Fournier said since the news of the re-opening went public, people are excited to see the business return.

“The response has been great,” he said.

The new operators say they hope to bring back some former staff and will be hiring new staff as part of a “staged” re-opening. Fournier envisions having about 30-40 staff members at first and expanding from there. Day camps are also in the plans for the facility.

The building was originally The Verdi Club, with the club still operating out of the Amherstburg Community Hub. The building re-opened as The Fort Fun Centre under the ownership of Brad

Hearn and Terry Jones in 2017. It is located at 689 Texas Road.

For more information, www.thefortfuncenter.ca.

visit

Memories of Yesterday...

Photos courtesy of the Marsh Historical Collection 80 Richmond Street Amherstburg 519-736-9191 • www.marshcollection.org

The Amherstburg Merchants’ Football Club Tie Champions, 1928. Note the local business names on each player’s uniform, the result of local merchants collectively sponsoring the team. Front row (left to right): J. Burns, C. England, W. Goodchild, C. Anderson, C. Finlay. Second row: T. Theobald, J.R. Hamilton, C. Herdman, G. Barron, J. Marshall, O. Ouellette, H. Wright, J. Ouellette, H. Wright, J. Ouellette, L. Belcoure, A.K. Duff. Back row: L Beniteau, J.P. Kennelly, W. Wilcox, C. Herdman, W. Franklin, W. Van Horn, D. Papst, T. Hamilton, R. Denike, R. Wilson, W. Wilkins, J. Timmis, B. Woods, A.D. Woods.

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 3

www.rivertowntimes.com

New book on Dr. Howard McCurdy launched in Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu Black History Month started last week with a book launch at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum.

“Black Activist, Black Scientist, Black Icon” was unveiled at the museum last Thursday evening with the new book being an autobiography of the late Dr. Howard D. McCurdy. McCurdy was a scientist who later broke into politics as an alderman – now known as a councillor – in Windsor before becoming a Member of Parliament.

His activism includes founding a chapter of the NAACP at Michigan State University, founding the civil rights organization the Guardian Club to fight racial discrimination and founding and becoming the first president of the National Black Coalition of Canada.

McCurdy is also credited with choosing the name New Democratic Party, serving as an MP for the party between 1984-1993. He was only the second Black MP in Canadian history, with Lincoln Alexander being the first.

Sheila Barker, the moderator of last Thursday’s discussion, said McCurdy’s great-great-grandfather was an agent on the Underground Railroad. As for McCurdy himself, he wrote over 50 scientific papers and became a part of the biology department at Assumption University.

After McCurdy died in 2018 at the age of 85, the book was finished with the aid of Dr. George Elliott Clarke and McCurdy’s widow Dr. Brenda McCurdy. Brenda is a current board member with the museum while Clarke worked with Howard.

George Elliott Clarke, Brenda McCurdy and Sheila Barker discuss the new book “Black Activist, Black Scientist, Black Icon” during a book launch at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum last Thursday.

Clarke believed McCurdy was a “great example of a scientist and an activist” with Brenda noting her late husband met with Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama and Martin Luther King Jr. among others.

“He was with the best and he was humble in all of that,” said Brenda.

“It was thrilling to see the movers and shakers and Howard was one of them,” added Clarke.

Clarke relayed a story about a dugout that got destroyed in London in 1939 to make room for a Royal Visit. Howard

met Queen Elizabeth II in 1985 and told her of the story, with Clarke saying Howard described the Queen as being “bemused” with it.

It was a last minute decision to run for alderman in Windsor and it would later spur his federal run. Brenda recalled when Howard was an MP that she would have to pick him up at the airport on time every Friday and they would often go right to an event or function.

“He loved being home and he loved being with the constituents he was elected to serve,” she said.

Brenda said her husband always had time for family affairs, with daughter Leslie recalling her involvement in a track and field meet and her father stopped in between trips in British Columbia and Nova Scotia to watch her.

“The list of achievements is really long,” said Clarke. “Howard loved being a Member of Parliament. “It was his oxygen. He loved the whole idea of representing his constituents and doing work for them.”

McCurdy was “way ahead of his time,” Clarke added, stating he advocated for hydrogen-powered vehicles 40 years ago.

Monty Logan, president of the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, recalled voting for McCurdy during the first time he was eligible to vote.

“Howard was an icon for us,” said Logan.

Barker added: “He was dynamic and energetic.”

The event was held in conjunction with the River Bookshop, with copies of the book being sold onsite and in the shop itself.

Events continued Saturday with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra’s “Singing with Flo” family concert in the Nazrey AME Church. The concert featured vocalist Florine Ndimubandi and the Windsor-Essex Youth Choir.

The roughly 45-minute performance was sponsored by Richard and Colleen Peddie.

The WSO returns to the Nazrey AME Church Feb. 23 for the concert “Korin Thomas-Smith sings Mozart.” Tickets for that are $35 and available through www.windsorsymphony.com.

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Malden Centre Park open house shows possible future plans

By Ron Giofu The public got a chance what is possibly in the future for Malden Centre Park.

An open house was held Monday evening in the Libro Centre lobby where members of the community came out to offer suggestions and express concerns over what was presented. Based on ideas from a previous open house, administration presented a concept with four baseball diamonds, an asphalt walking path surrounding and through the County Road 20 park, a new playground, shelter, washroom and parking lot.

Two of the proposed diamonds would be 300-feet while the other two would be 250-feet, meaning the existing diamonds would be shifted to accommodate the new dimensions.

“The drawings we’ve come up with are based on our last public survey we did last year,” said director of recreation, culture and facilities Heidi Baillargeon.

The plans for Malden Centre Park are baseball-centric and Baillargeon added people are asking for the fencing to be removed.

“We’ve met with the baseball community and user groups,” said Baillargeon.

“They like the design and are really happy with it.”

An actual costing is still to come but an

Director of parks, recreation and facilities Heidi Baillargeon and members of town council hear from the public during an open house on plans for Malden Centre Park Monday evening.

early estimate is pegged at $3-4 million.

That would also include drainage and lighting in addition to the other amenities.

The washroom itself is a “pricey” item with Baillargeon stating it can cost up to $800,000 to light a baseball diamond.

“We will work up a cost (for the park) before going to council,” said Baillargeon.

Another public survey will run through the end of February and the design will be tweaked based on feedback, she added.

She said a previous survey had over 230 responses.

“There was quite a bit of public feedback

from the last survey,” said Baillargeon.

Baillargeon anticipates a report could go before town council in three to four months. She added master plans have been created for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park, Jack Purdie Park, Warren Mickle Park and now Malden Centre Park with more to come.

“We’re hoping to do master plans for every park,” she said, adding it will help decide where recreation amenities will go.

Marie Fryer was one of the residents who turned out.

“So far, I like the plan,” said Fryer.

Fryer believed the town was “on the right track” and said she is one of the residents wanting the fences to be taken down. Her children are in baseball and she would like to see older children be able to use the park in addition to the younger kids.

Jon Parks noted the placards around the lobby read “Malden Park” and wanted to ensure the park’s name remains as Malden Centre Park. He questioned how many components can fit onto the Libro Centre grounds and thought many of them can be accommodated in Malden.

Malden Centre Park has over five acres, said Parks, and he wanted some amenities there. A new playground is needed, he said.

“People can drive out to London for hockey or soccer,” he added. “They can drive here to play pickleball or tennis.”

Frank Palumbo said items that were once at Malden Centre Park are there no longer. He said there are no tennis or basketball courts or a surface to play ball hockey. He noted those were used when he was a teacher at neighbouring Malden Centre Public School.

“There’s still nothing for tennis, pickleball, basketball or ball hockey,” he said. “There’s no playing surfaces for any of that.”

Buses running after union, Transit Windsor reach tentative agreement Special to the RTT The Transit Windsor bus will still be coming through Amherstburg this week on its normal schedule as a strike has been averted.

After what the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 616 called “challenging negotiations with the Transit Windsor Collective bargaining committee,” the union announced via press release Sunday night it had secured a tentative agreement and there will not be a strike.

“This, after months of gruelling bargaining with the Company seeking considerable concessions to offset and/ or recoup costs from federally mandated personal medical leave days,” the press

release stated.

“We have been vocal that we were working towards a fair and reasonable collective agreement for our membership, that reflects the current working and health and safety conditions for both workers and passengers, as well as wage increases that are reflective of industry standards. We feel that we have achieved that, and will be presenting the offer to our membership for a ratification vote,” the union states.

The ATU states it is committed to providing safe, reliable, affordable, and accessible public transit to all those who rely on this service.

“We want the public to know that we take pride in serving our communities

and keeping Windsor and Essex County moving.”

The union states it has been working without a contract since Oct. 1, and was in a strike position since Dec 3.

ATU Local 616 represents almost 300 members, including operators, customer service, administration, maintenance, and skilled trades, providing transit throughout Windsor and Essex County, and tunnel bus service to Detroit.

The City of Windsor also issued its own news release after the tentative agreement was reached, noting buses were running on schedule starting Monday.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have this deal done ahead of any disruption to service for our community”, said

Commissioner of Infrastructure Services (Acting) Mark Winterton. “It’s been a marathon of negotiating to get here but we have a tentative agreement that we can present to City Council and that Local 616 can take to their members.”

No details of the agreement will be released ahead of Windsor city council approval and membership ratification.

Transit Windsor provides public transit service in Windsor-Essex, including service to Amherstburg, LaSalle, and Leamington. In addition, Tunnel Bus and Special Events services are provided to Detroit, Michigan, and school extra service is provided to select schools in Windsor. All services will be operating as normal thanks to the tentative deal.

Due to space limitations, Letters to the Editor that were submitted will be held and considered for a future print issue. In the meantime, check www.rivertowntimes.com

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 5

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Gibson Gallery holds AGM, looks for members for future goals

By Ron Giofu The Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts, the board that operates the Gibson Gallery, is looking to the future all the while happy with the year that just concluded.

The gallery held its annual general meeting last Tuesday night where board members and the gallery’s membership heard about what was accomplished in 2023 and what could be ahead for this year.

“It was a good year,” said Syl Gagnon, the guild’s 2023 president. “I’m pleased.”

Gagnon said they accomplished many of its goals from the end of 2022.

“The board should be very proud of that,” said Gagnon. “This year, we stayed on point and accomplished a lot.”

A long-awaited LED sign is coming in 2024 and will be located along Richmond St., on the other side of the entrance of where the current sign is.

“We’ve been talking about a new sign for 15 years,” said Gagnon.

The Gibson Gallery has done a better job of getting its name out there with Gagnon stating they have had talks in the River Bookshop’s “Hole in the Wall” event space, been part of Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce events and the Art Crawl as well as Open Air Weekends.

Board members and volunteers worked hard over 2023 and Gagnon said he is proud of the efforts they put forth. They plan to have continued promotion of the gallery in 2024, including unique exhibits, classes and workshops.

There are five guilds operating out the Gibson Gallery.

Among the ideas floated by the membership for 2024 include possible Family Day programming, tie-ins with other local historical sites, having Indigenous programming, considering the art of food making, beer and wine making, tattoo art, digital art, teaming with the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society on

Trudy Dempsey, Carole Deschaine and Syl Gagnon chat with the membership at last Tuesday night’s annual general meeting at the Gibson Gallery.

programming, updating the caboose exhibit, holding historical-themed events, and even hosting ghost tours.

Trudy Dempsey, a member of the board’s exhibit committee, said they held 11 exhibits from MarchNovember 2023.

“This was an exciting year for the Gibson Gallery with not only our in-house exhibits but one off location exhibit and a major outdoor event,” she said.

Exhibits included those with students, as Dempsey said the Gibson Gallery “is a proud supporter of our talented youth by hosting two special exhibits annually.”

The gallery hosts North Star High School’s “Emerging Artists” and “Student Pix,” the latter in conjunction with the Greater Essex County District School Board.

“The Fibre Optix show was a judged event showcasing outstanding fibre art,” she added. “Because the pieces were all stunning, the Judges had a difficult time deciding the first, second, third and honourable mention winners.”

Dempsey added they have a number of exhibits planned for this year including a call to artists to enter in a judged exhibit called “Blossoms, Blooms and Buds.”

Board member Dave Cozens outlined what the grounds and maintenance committee did, with work involving summer student Noah Floor, with whom the

Policing activities report released for 2023

By Ron Giofu Statistics for the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment have been released for 2023.

The policing activities report has been released for last year and it shows there were 8,324 total incidents in Amherstburg. All were classified as “dispatch generated incidents (CAD calls)” as opposed to self-generated walk-in incidents. When a person attends the police station, they use the red phone in the vestibule and it gets transferred to dispatch.

There were 599 incidents in December 2023, as opposed to 840 in November and 797 in October.

There were a total of 4,851 provincial offenses recorded last year, 3,080 of which were traffic offenses.

There were 120 Part III summons issued in 2023. In November and December, there were 484 and 248 traffic offenses for each month respectively and eight and 10 Part III summons respectively.

There were only three liquor offenses listed for 2023 and 682 items listed as “other provincial offenses.” Of the latter, there were 60 reported in November and 40 in December.

As for crime statistics, there were 128 theft under $5,000 charges laid in 2023. There were seven laid in December while there were three cases in November. A total of six cases of theft over $5,000 were reported last year with none in November or December.

Two robberies were reported over the past year with one of those cases being reported in December.

The report shows there were 115 cases of fraud reported in 2023 with nine reported in November and ten in December.

Fifteen cases of impaired driving were listed for last year with one each reported in November and December.

There were six items listed under “Federal Statutes,” with none in November or December.

There were 79 assaults listed in the report for 2023 with 12 in December and ten in November. There were 72 cases of mischief last year with five each in November and December.

According to the statistics, there were 40 cases of break-and-enter in Amherstburg in 2023. There was one reported in November and three in December.

The policing statistics, which were shared with town council, also showed eight calls listed under “Drugs” reported in 2023, one of them being in December. Nine firearm charges were listed for last year, with one in December. Under the “Arson/Fire Calls” section, four were listed for last year with one in December.

A total of 53 charges were listed under “Other Criminal Code” with seven in November and six in December.

Relating to community outreach activities, there were 150 calls for community service/COAST program.

Eights calls came in November and another eight in December.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said in 2022, there were 2,161 tickets written by police. In 2023, it increased 42.5 per cent to 3,080 tickets.

“I think it’s one of the most effective ways to keep our residents safe is to target people who can’t go by the rules,” said Gibb. “We get a lot of calls and e-mails that they never see police in their neighbourhoods but (they’re) somewhere.”

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committee was pleased.

Work at the gallery including repairing cracks in interior walls, painting, calking interior trim at all doors and windows, inspecting and tightening structural floor jacks in the crawl space in conjunction with Paul’s Waterproofing, adjust lighting and replace bulbs, repairing downspouts and clean evestroughs, garden and landscape repairs and upgrades, removing excess scrub vegetation and upgrade parking lot signage among other work.

The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Their website is www.gibsongallery.org or people can call 519-736-2826 for more information.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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Tender approved for Concession 2 North reconstruction

ranked rural road in the study other than the 8th Concession North which has had construction delayed pending the conclusion of the McGregor Lagoons / Howard Industrial Servicing EA.” “If not rehabilitated, the road will continue to deteriorate,” Hewitt added.

“Not awarding this tender would delay the replacement and improvements to the road condition and could expose the Town to increased cost with respect to inflation and further maintenance on the road.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb wanted to know if that included bike lanes on each side of the road and was told there would be paved shoulders for active transportation.

The Concession 2 North project is likely to begin by late winter or early spring.

Completion was estimated by the end of the summer.

“I just want to say how excited I am we are approving this project tonight,” Councillor Don McArthur said during the Jan. 29 meeting of town council. “In terms of active transportation in Amherstburg, this is really going to fix a dangerous, gaping hole.”

McArthur said there is no way for a cyclist or walker to safely get from LaSalle or River Canard to Amherstburg.

The new project will connect to Thomas Road, which connects to other parts of Amherstburg, McArthur added.

“This is going to open up a lot of doors for Amherstburg in terms of economic development and tourism,” said McArthur. “More importantly, it’s going to keep residents safe and bring residents of this big, big town closer together. I’m really excited this project is moving forward.”

Town council approved a tender for the reconstruction of Concession 2 North from Middle Side Road to South Riverview Drive during its most recent meeting.

By Ron Giofu A long-awaited construction project near River Canard is finally coming to fruition.

Town council has approved a tender valued at over $3.6 million plus HST from Piera Con Enterprises Inc. to reconstruct Concession 2 North between County Road 10 (Middle Side Road) and South Riverview Dr. According to a report from manager of engineering Todd Hewitt, funding of the project will see $125,000 come from the lifecycle reserve, $2,113,005 from the Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) grant, $1,673,970 from the general reserve and $15,000 from gas tax funding.

Hewitt stated in his report to Amherstburg town council that Concession 2 North was classified as a “now” project in the 2021 Roads Needs Study “and was the highest

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OW N 2

Local school assisted through insurance company’s foundation

By Ron Giofu Thanks to the Desjardins Foundation, the Public Alternative Secondary School (PASS) will have an additional tool to teach students about the farm-to-table process.

The PASS school, located in the federal building at 66 Richmond St., received a $1,564 cheque from the Desjardins Foundation. The funds were presented last week at agent Tim Matlock’s office in Amherstburg.

“We applied for a grant to purchase a grow tower,” explained PASS teacher Shauna Johns.

The concept, she said, is to build the tower, complete with lights, and allow students to grow their own vegetables. The students can learn about the entire process from planting seeds to harvesting their produce.

“Students can enjoy produce year-round and grow it in the classroom,” said Johns. “They can see the work that goes into the food they eat. They will learn the care and preparation that goes into it.”

The Desjardins Foundations Prizes are awarded to projects headed up by community and schools to benefit all ages, from kindergarten right up through high school.

Continued on Page 9

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Desjardins agent Tim Matlock (centre) presents a $1,564 cheque to PASS principal Rich Reid and teacher Shauna Johns so the local school can build a grow tower.

The money came through the Desjardins Foundation

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 7

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Tennis players look for their own courts in Amherstburg GATL president points out lack of quality tennis courts in the community

By Ron Giofu While members of the tennis community don’t mind pickleball players having a place to play, they wonder if they are going to get courts as well.

Bill Seagris, president of the Greater Amherstburg Tennis League (GATL), appeared before town council last week noting their desire to have new tennis courts closer to home.

Seagris said he watched the presentation from Amherstburg Pickleball Association (APA) at a midJanuary budget meeting and credited APA board member Linda DiPasquale for doing a “fantastic job.”

“Our point is not that pickleball should not exist,” said Seagris. “It’s a great sport. They need facilities but so do we.”

Seagris said there were 12 tennis courts in Amherstburg at one point but that number has decreased.

“Now we are down to two and they are not good at all,” said Seagris.

The town has done some repair work to the tennis courts at Anderdon Park, but Seagris pointed out he sees puddles forming on the courts there after a rainfall. New courts at St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School do not have puddles on them.

Local tennis players often use courts at the Vollmer Centre in LaSalle or courts in Windsor including Forest Glade.

“We’re still looking for adequate courts here,” said Seagris.

The GATL has 377 members with 244 being active last year, he added. The league is active in the community as members donated to a local food bank and donated used equipment to North Star High School.

With reference to the large crowd the APA brought with them to the Jan. 15 meeting, Seagris said the

GATL could have done the same.

“If I would have known lobbying would have made a difference, I would have had members e-mail council also,” he said.

Councillor Molly Allaire noted a comment about Seagris helping to consult in other municipalities about courts and wondered if something like that ever occurred in Amherstburg.

Seagris stated he has spoken to people in the past but also said he has e-mailed town officials with no reply.

Councillor Diane Pouget apologized to the group, stating she didn’t think they had anything to worry about in this year’s budget. Pouget said there were references to “tennis/pickleball courts” in the 2024 budget documents.

Town council asked for $500,000 to be put into the 2025 budget for tennis courts at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park but Pouget didn’t seem optimistic about the chances of finding that money in addition to $500,000 for a pump track at the Libro Centre. She had voted in opposition to the eight pickleball-only courts during budget deliberations.

Councillor Don McArthur called it “a body blow” that courts were lost at both H. Murray Smith Centennial Park and Malden Centre Park.

“I agree with you we need more hard court surfaces,” said McArthur.

McArthur acknowledged the tennis courts at Anderdon Park need work but pointed out there are courts available at Co-An Park in McGregor. He added that he went to bat for the courts at Villanova but took shots because the courts are actually in LaSalle. He defended his vote for eight dedicated pickleball courts by stating the APA could bring in tournaments and clinics and spur economic development. He also pointed out the economies of scale that could be achieved and the possibility of a hard court surface next to the eight pickleball courts.

Seagris said while it not ideal for tennis players to play with pickleball lines on the court, it is possible and called for the continuation of shared courts until more long-term planning is done. He said pickleball lines were placed on tennis courts and the tennis community was asked to share.

“We managed to survive,” said Seagris.

Tennis has been “underfunded” in Amherstburg as have other amenities, Seagris added, noting there are youth who want basketball courts. He stated he considers the Vollmer Centre his home courts.

“I find that sad because I’m a tennis player in this community,” said Seagris.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb indicated it all comes down to money. He also defended his vote in favour of eight pickleball-only courts.

Gibb said if the money were available, he would like to see not only tennis and pickleball courts, but a boat ramp, more walking trails, baseball diamonds, and a swimming pool.

Amenities have been lost over the years, he added, and it will take time to regain those.

“Things didn’t go downhill in one term and they won’t be fixed in one term,” he said.

Gibb added the town has a five-year capital plan but there are a lot of items that have to be considered.

“If we could we would,” he said about rebuilding amenities. “We just don’t have the money to do it all at once.”

Councillor Linden Crain said Amherstburg has the lowest reserves of any municipality in Essex County.

“You can’t build Rome in a day,” said Crain. “There are a lot of competing interests.”

Mayor Michael Prue stated the five-year capital plan didn’t have anything earmarked for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park until 2028 but wants money designated for next year for park facilities.

“We recognize the importance,” said Prue. “We’re trying to do everything we can.”

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8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

Bryerswood gets Save on Energy grant, taking advantage of other funding

By Ron Giofu

Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) vice president Cathy Robertson and president Kathi Poupard (right) are pleased grant funding is helping with ongoing camp upgrades.

laundry room.

By switching to LED bulbs and fixtures, Robertson said it will not only be cheaper to operate the camp in the long run but aligns with the BYCOC’s mission of

WEBC’S Pub Night The Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) held its “Membership Pub Night” last Saturday night at Rock Bottom Bar & Grill in Windsor. As part of the evening, WEBC received a $7,500 grant from the Amherstburg Community Foundation (ACF) for construction of the Phase 2 trails at the Libro Centre (left). They also presented several awards throughout the evening, one of which is seen here (right)

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The Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club is staying busy with upgrades and are planning more to come.

The club is upgrading the camp and the buildings that sit on it with one of the grants received being under the Save On Energy Small Business Program.

The program covers lighting retrofits and replacements up to a $3,000 value.

Cathy Robertson, vice president of the Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC), said the timing of their interest of the program pre-dated the club taking ownership of the grounds and re-opening the camp in 2021. Robertson said they re-established contact with the organization and received funding, with plans underway to finalize when the work can be completed.

“The Save on Energy program grant can’t do the entire lodge,” she said, “but it can do the majority of it.”

Lighting in the main building at the camp will be replaced and upgraded with new fixtures and bulbs.

Work will be done in the activity room, dining room, kitchen and a main bathroom lighting. Other work that currently can’t be funded include upgrades to vanity lights in the bathrooms, the office and

environmental sustainability.

The BYCOC is also working with $150,000 from an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant to upgrade the activity building next to the main lodge. New windows and doors as well as a new waterline were put in, the latter with the aid of Extreme Drilling.

A second phase of the project will be to upgrade washrooms to make them not only accessible but also to be able to get into them from the interior of the building. The entrances are currently from the outside of the building. Upgrading a kitchen and workshop areas are also planned.

A third phase, which is not yet funded, would involve insulation, a heating source, and both exterior and interior finishes.

Robertson said they still have to pay off their mortgage as well as their municipal tax bill. They hope to add 39 new members to the “Founder’s Club” this year and that sees donors of $5,000 receive a square of the campground dedicated to them.

Bryerswood Youth Camp hosts PA Day camps, an upcoming March Break camp with another summer camp planned.

“The kids are coming. That’s the nice thing,” said Robertson.

For more information about the BYCOC, visit www. bryerswood.com or call 519-726-6266.

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 9

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Kicks & Giggles

AMA Sportsmen co-host birdhouse building day

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 There is a new person in your life who may become a source of inspiration, Aries. It’s a new year and you are ready for all the novel experiences you can encounter.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you could be feeling more grounded in your personal life than you have in some time.

The people you surround yourself with accept and love you unconditionally.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, if a suggestion goes against your instincts this week, give it careful consideration nonetheless. This person may have some good ideas that you may not have thought of.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, you tend to be good about not letting work life bleed into your personal affairs.

However, this week you may need to have some carryover to accomplish all that lies ahead.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Some good news may arrive this week that will put you on cloud nine, Leo. Just don’t let this enthusiasm distract you from getting all of your business wrapped up on time.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 A charming person may come into your life this week, Virgo. At first he or she may be a whirlwind and confuse you for some time. Eventually, you may catch on and go with the flow.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, use whatever opportunities you have to speak to older family members and jot down the memories they have. Time is fleeting and you want to learn all you can.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Surround yourself with people who bring positivity into your life, Scorpio. It is alright to take inventory and distance yourself from others who do not generate positive vibes.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 People who believe they have a lot of power are going to be all around you this week, Sagittarius. Don’t fall prey to any intimidation tactics. Continue to do your own thing.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Dreams have been entertaining and awfully vivid lately, Capricorn. But you can’t put too much stock in them. They may simply be your subconscious mind trying to work through things.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Express gratitude when you are gifted something both thoughtful and expensive, Aquarius.

This is something you have had your eye on for some time but never purchased yourself.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 You’re likely to be very busy soon enough, Pisces. Some loud and busy people may come into your life in the next few days. It may prove hard to find a quiet moment afterwards.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY 4 - Clint Black, Singer (62 FEBRUARY 5 - Cristiano Ronaldo, Athlete (39) FEBRUARY 6 - Alice Eve, Actress (42) FEBRUARY 7 - Chris Rock, Comic (59) FEBRUARY 8 - Jaden Hossler, Singer (23) FEBRUARY 9 - Tom Hiddleston, Actor (43) FEBRUARY 10 - Emma Roberts, Actress (33)

WORD SCRAMBLE Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to breakfast.

ANSWERS ON PAGE 14

(Above) Luca Paquette, left; works the drill as he and his father Jason build a bird house at the Sportsmen Club. (Right) Two-year-old Blair Drajicevic, left; her mother Megan and grandfather Gord Meloche were hard at work on Saturday morning.

By Fred Groves There are going to be a lot of happy birds in the Amherstburg area in the next few weeks.

The AMA Sportsmen Club teamed with the Canada Wild Turkey Federation’s (CWTF) AMA Longbeards Chapter last Saturday morning to provide local young outdoor enthusiasts a chance to build birdhouses.

Two-year-old, almost three, Blair Dragicevic spends a lot of time outside thanks to her grandfather and AMA member Gord Meloche and with the help of her mom, Megan Dragicevic worked the drill and helped build her own bird boxes.

“She loves nature walks and fishing with her grandfather,” said Megan.

Although young Blair might have a tough time attracting pink birds, which is her favourite colour, her grandpa commented, “she wants to build a house for the birds and knows what she wants.”

The AMA Sportsmen Club had no problem recruiting members to pre-cut the wood for the houses, as they were at the clubhouse on Lowes Side Road, some as early as 6 a.m.

“We must have had 30 guys here cutting lumber and that’s common for projects that are done here,” said CWTF

Longbeards President Mark Rene.

Rene explained that his chapter is called Longbeards because a wild turkey’s maturity can be confirmed by the length of its beard and getting a bird with a long beard is considered to be quite an accomplishment.

The entire event, including a free lunch and being able to take home the bird house, is just one of the many activities that the AMA takes pride in.

According to Rene, Saturday’s particular activity has been going on for at least 20 years.

“This is part of the conservation effort that CWTF puts on. AMA Sportsmen do a lot of things for kids,” said Rene.

The turkey shoot and archery are popular but on Saturday it was all about building the bird houses.

“I think it is very important that we have a mandate to help youth and ladies to be involved in wildlife.”

Two different styles of houses could be made and the local organization provided everything including screws, wood and drills to assemble.

For Luca Paquette and his father Jason who live in the area, it was a chance to build another house as they already have three.

For more information about the AMA Sportsmen Association, call 519-736-5706.

Desjardins Insurance helps local PASS school Continued from Page 6

The foundation grants financial assistance to projects with the greatest potential to motivate young people.

“When kids love school, they have better grades, greater perseverance and an improved well-being. That’s why we created the Desjardins Foundation Prizes,” said Nancy Lee, executive director of the Desjardins Foundation.

“The initiatives and projects we support can keep students motivated and have a positive impact on their education. We give teachers and youth workers the opportunity to meet kids where they are and make a real difference. It’s empowering.”

Rich Reid, principal of the PASS school, was happy to receive the donation and said they are grateful for the support. He believed it was a great example of the community helping to build partnerships with the school.

Matlock said there were over 3,000

entries and 600 prizes awarded nationally. He was pleased to see an application be granted in Amherstburg.

“The community is stronger when we give back,” said Matlock.

It is the second time in less than a year where the local Desjardins office helped with a grant in Amherstburg.

Gumballs & Overalls was one of 150 recipients of a Desjardins “GoodSpark” grant, with the insurance firm awarding a total of $3 million under that program. The “GoodSpark” grant was awarded last April and assisted the business in increasing her online presence and allowing for the ability for people to shop online. The store was able to hire an additional staff member to help shoppers online.

The Desjardins Foundation Prizes sees the next application period start in October.

For more information, visit www. desjardinsfoundation.com/prizes.

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

Trespass policy gives town council members concerns

By Ron Giofu A report from policy and committee co-ordinator Karly Kennedy stated that in its capacity as a property owner and service provider, the Town of Amherstburg “is dedicated to safeguarding the peaceful enjoyment and utilization of municipal property for all citizens, as well as upholding the freedom for individuals to engage in peaceful demonstrations and express dissenting views. Additionally, the town has legal obligations to maintain the reasonable safety of property users and implement adequate measures to protect its employees in the workplace.”

Kennedy wrote while most people using town properties “do so appropriately,” she stated there are instances “where people engage in behaviours that disrupt town business or activities, or pose threats to staff and other users of town facilities.” She said administration recommended the Notice of Trespass policy “to align with existing policies in municipalities of similar demographics, current best practices and legislative and regulatory requirements.”

“A formal process provides a structured framework that helps ensure the Town is acting within the bounds of laws and regulations. Without such a process, there’s a higher risk of potential legal disputes arising from procedural irregularities. The policy establishes clear lines of responsibility and accountability. Without these, decision-making may lack transparency, making it difficult to track and evaluate the appropriateness of actions taken in response to trespass incidents. Inconsistently managed trespass situations can negatively impact the Town’s reputation,” she stated in her report.

Councillor Molly Allaire asked if this could help deal with issues the town had at the Libro Centre. The question was in reference to issues with vandalism and rude behaviour. Clerk Kevin Fox said the policy was crafted to “deal with a range of issues.”

“It is intended to provide some guidance from council in terms of how we would approach a situation that is developing,” he said.

The new policy allows council to put boundaries in on how it would be initiated, reported, tracked, and reviewed “so administration has guidance on how to apply that with reasonable restraints so that it doesn’t become abused.”

Mayor Michael Prue said he was “a little uncomfortable with this.” He recalled a suggestion of a lobbyist registry during the previous term of council, something he said he opposed.

“I find this has some of the same feel to me,” said Prue.

“People can get angry in here. People can lose their cool.

I’m reluctant to say they can’t come back.”

Prue said he realizes staff needs to be protected but the issue was the public’s ability to come back.

“I don’t have any problem with telling people to leave,” he said. “I do have problems with long-term disbarment, saying you can’t use a municipal (building) or you can’t come to the next five meetings or you can’t do this or that. I just want to make sure there’s a safeguard. I believe the public has the right to be heard, even if it’s not very nice.”

The mayor recalled a prior incident where a resident was barred and that matter going to court and stated “I want to make sure those kinds of things don’t happen in Amherstburg in the future.”

Fox added the “ultimate authority” sits with the CAO and that the CAO is an employee of council. The policy is designed with progressive discipline that could ramp up if necessary.

“It is not intended to be used for minor disruptions but rather for something that reaches a level of significance and, even then, to apply in a limited and controlled way so hopefully it is a corrective step,” said Fox. “This is in keeping with the town’s harassment policy as an employer to ensure we are protecting our staff and our workplaces and being mindful of our role as a civic entity to make sure access is provided.”

Fox said it is “a progressive and slow rise” before any sort of banishment would take place and “even then, it’s an annual review process to ensure any sort of long-term bans are reviewed to make sure they are still

appropriate.”

Any situation calling for a long-term ban could be referred to town council for review, said Fox, and council could make a choice.

“That would be our practice anyway and I would support that,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb stated there has to be a balance with the right for people to express their opinions “no matter how much we may not like it” but town council also has to allow the CAO to protect staff and members of the public.

Gibb wanted to know if council had the ability to overrule a decision of administration, with Fox stating the authority remains with council as it is council’s policy.

Councillor Don McArthur wanted the CAO to have the authority to keep people safe but that town council “be made aware in real time” if something like that happened.

Town council adopted the policy with the amendment put forth by McArthur.

Cadet tag day

Local cadets Luca Jurilj, Andrew Cliff and Juliana Etie were three of the 202nd Fort Malden Royal Canadian army cadets selling tags last Saturday. Proceeds benefit the cadets’ training and programming.

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 11

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Shorthanded Admirals display gutsy effort vs. Flags

Admirals’ forward Brett Jones controls the puck against Flags’ goalie John Chartrand and defenceman Kaleb Edlington during Sunday night’s 6-3 Mooretown victory.

By Fred Groves It was a very long week and a very short bench for the Amherstburg Admirals.

The Admirals had just 13 players available for the PJHL game Sunday night at the Libro Centre, one in which they were doubled up 6-3 by the Mooretown Flags.

“I think there is a bug going around and nine of our guys have got it,” said Admirals’ head coach Beau Hunter after the game.

Amherstburg is not the only team in the West Stobbs Division to be battling illness as the Dresden Kings were forced to postpone their Friday night game with Lakeshore.

Despite suiting up just seven forwards and four defenceman, the Admirals put in a gusty effort and trailed just 2-1 after the first period. It was a chance for several rookies including Travis Knight, Finnegan Russett and Brett Jones to step up and they did so in a big way.

“Just like at the beginning of the year when were shorthanded, I told them

they had to take advantage of the opportunity,” said Hunter.

Eventually the lack of players and four games in seven nights took its toll against the Flags and by mid-way through the final period, the Admirals had no more in the tank. Despite the loss, Jones had a nice goal, Jacob Archer scored on the powerplay after he leveled a Mooretown player with a huge hockey hit and Stefan Jacobs showed some super slick speed in netting his tenth of the season.

“I am very proud of the effort the guys put in tonight,” said Hunter.

In the first of back-to-back games at home, Amherstburg lost 4-1 to the Wheatley Sharks on Saturday. Archer had the lone goal for the hosts. Joe Costea, getting the start in net, was named the first star as he turned away 38 shots.

Amherstburg was without 10 regulars, including nine veterans. Former Admiral Kyle Bleau led the Sharks with a pair of goals.

The four-game stretch began last Tuesday night in Essex where the

Amherstburg’s Finnigan Russett (18) battles Mooretown’s Nate Perry off the faceoff Sunday night.

Admirals fell hard, 11-1 to the host 73’s.

Russett got his second shorthanded goal in as many games and Owen Papulkas also scored for the winners who trailed 3-1 after the first period, and 6-1 at the end of 40 minutes. Josh Courtney started in net but left early with an injury.

For the veteran Papulkas, it was his 11th straight game with at least one point and during that stretch he had 16 points.

In Wheatley the following night, Amherstburg picked up their eighth win of the season in dramatic fashion. Archer scored in overtime as the visitors handed the Sharks a 3-2 loss. Also scoring for the winners were Papulkas and Cole Vaillancourt with his second of the year.

“It was very big. We battled back, we

hadn’t beaten them this year. It was nice to get it. We’ve beaten everyone except Essex and Lakeshore and that’s a big accomplishment,” said Hunter.

The Admirals take their 8-29-0-0 record to Lakeshore Friday and it’s backto-back with the Canadiens as they come to the Libro Centre for a 7:30 p.m. puck drop Saturday.

SLAPSHOTS:.. With Courtney out with an injury, Noah Spadatto is backing up Costea in net… Forward Will Morris was brought in and he had an assist in Sunday’s game against Mooretown...

Stefan Jacobs is the only Admirals player to suit up in all 37 games thus far. He and Archer lead the team in scoring with 31 points apiece.

Local FIBC boxers do well in Southwold Two FIBC boxers participated in a tournament at the Oneida Recreation Center in Southwold, Ontario sponsored by Ring London Saturday, January 27.

Kendal Wonham (left) was the main event against Kiona Elijah of the Oneida reserve. Regrettably, a recurring knee injury for Kendal resulted in the fight being stopped in the second round. Dawson Woltz (right), won his fight by unanimous decision against Richard

Koosees from the Kashechewan Reserve in James Bay, Ontario. Mary Spencer (centre), is a three-time world champ, one-time Pan American gold medalist, eight-time Canadian champion. Mary is the first Canadian female boxer to compete in the Olympics. Today she is a professional boxer with a record of nine wins, six of which are by knockout, and two losses.

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 12

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WINDOW BLINDS

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Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 13

Community Calendar

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 ESSEX COUNTY FIELD NATURALISTS’ CLUB; Essex County Field Naturalists Club meets every second Wednesday of the month, except for November, at Ojibway Nature Center. Next meeting February 14, at 730 p.m. at Ojibway Center, 5200 Matchett Rd. Cameron Chevalier will present a summary of the 2023 record-breaking year in bird records for Essex County, as well as an early summary of where the 2024 list stands.

Come and find out what Essex County Field Naturalists’ Club is all about!

FRIDAY, MARCH 1 WILD GAME DINNER; Held as a fundraiser for Crime Stoppers Windsor-Essex County.

Held at Colasanti’s Tropical Garden, 1550 Road 3 East, in Ruthven. Buffet style, cash bar, raffles, silent auction. Tickets $75 each, doors open at 5 p.m. Appetizers include European pickerel soup, water buffalo chili and salad/buns. Dinner features elk stew, venison sausage, kangaroo stir fry, spicy water buffalo curry, bison stroganoff, wild boar meatballs and spaghetti, ostrich casserole, rabbit cacciatore, ocean perch, crocodile bites, broasted chicken, vegetable THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 medley and broasted potatoes. For tickets or NATIONAL CHILI DAY; Amherstburg info, visit www.catchcrooks.com.

Community Services’ “Feast with Friends” luncheon celebrates National Chili Day ONGOING at the Amherstburg Community Hub, 320 Richmond St. Meal and program costs $9. ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG Runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 519-736-5471 MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second to reserve your seat. and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22 New members welcome. For info, e-mail PASTA FUNDRAISER; Wolfhead Distillery, rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call 7781 Howard Ave., holding a “Give Back” Susanne at 519-990-2775. pasta fundraiser from 4-8 p.m. Bring $20 or a bag of non-perishable food items and MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by receive a pasta dinner. All donations go to Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). the Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also food bank. Reservations required. available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 23 TIM’S FAMOUS CHILI DINNER; The meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle residents. invites the community to come and enjoy ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal Tim’s Famous Chili Dinner with the fundraiser comes with soup, bread, main course and being held from 5-8 p.m. Enjoy a bowl of chili dessert. Cost $7.50 per meal. Call 519-736with coleslaw, rolls, coffee/tea and dessert. 5471 for details.

Adults $15, children under 12 $8. For tickets, stop by the mission and see Violet or Kim, or GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, call 519-736-9140. The Amherstburg Food Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at the and Fellowship Mission is located at 298 179 Richmond St. is offering social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There Victoria St. S. are over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, and bridge

and doing line dancing. We also have three special luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www.goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.

between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission. ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS; The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m.

Refreshments served. New members and visitors are welcome. We are on Facebook!

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

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 info@bryerswood.com.

Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA month ($12 donation). Serving burgers Sportsmen Association continues to accept and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 donations of empty beer and wine bottles. p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry People who wish to donate their empties on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30-6:30 can drop them off at the rear of the club, p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome. 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse call 519-736-5706.

Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. Come Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to meet others in the community and enjoy join the “Founders Club.” Donors help fund some good food. No registration required. general operations fund of the camp. Donors Lighthouse Church is located at 266 King St. with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one (entrance off Gore St.). square of camp property sponsored in MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING their name. Multiple squares available.

SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www. presenting mental health and counselling bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or services at The House Youth Centre. Runs e-mail info@bryerswood.com. every Wednesday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12-25. The AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY House is located at 320 Richmond St. For SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., details, call 519-800-8640.

519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., Support Program & much more. Please call open from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch to see how we can help!

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14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

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C L A SSI F I EDS ANNOUNCEMENTS from $25+tax WORD ADS from $15+tax

CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com to book your spot!

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA WITH OVER 30 YEARS VISTA APTS. 365-369 Centrally of renovation and Dalhouise. in downtown construction experience I located can ensure your project is Amherstburg with river completed professionally, views. Large, clean, quiet I Thought of You Today correctly and with pride. and secure. Stainless steel Locally owned & operated. appliances, on-site laundry, balcony and thoughtpatio of youorwith love today, www.renovisions.caI Steve Startingnew. at $1395 519-300-0961 butparking. that’s nothing including utilities. Call 519I thought about you yesterday, 984-1745 to view.

IN MEMORIAM

I think of you in silence.

GOLD SILVER JEWELRY ALL COINS Buying FOR RENT All I have are memories.

Friday Feb 23 K of and C 3-BEDROOM UPPER a picture in a frame.

Hall 190 Richmond St DUPLEX FOR RENT IN Your memory is a keepsake, Amherstburg,Sat Feb 24+ AMHERSTBURG; Very with clean, which I’ll never part.

Sun Feb 25 Essex High well maintained, God has you in his keeping, School Essex Booth 1(just approximately 1200 sq. inside the entrance) During ft.

Upper-Duplex in quiet and I have you in my heart. the Train Show 10 am-4pm -Unknown neighbourhood on Author Queen Top Prices Paid for ALL Gold Street.

Open-concept + Silver JEWELRY, even living-room and diningsome costume. Any Gold area with cathedral-ceiling. (even teeth) **OLD COINS; Carpet and Ceramic-Tile Canada, USA, World War throughout. Open-concept Medals, Windup Watches, kitchen with Island, Fridge, Mintsets,Old paper money Stove and Dishwasher Free Estimates**Locally included. Private ensuite Owned** 57 Years of laundry-room, Washer “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS and Dryer included. 3 Not Expensive Colored Bedrooms with lots of Brochures” Dan Jones closet-space.

4-Piece B.A.B.Ed. 519-818-1805 Bathroom. Central ForcedAir Conditioning and HighEfficiency Gas Furnace. No HOUSE CLEANER Smoking. Private access I have a few spots available. to your own deck, within 20 years of experience. shared rear-yard. $1,975 Serving Amherstburg and Monthly, plus Utilities. area. Call Stephanie 519- Minimum 1-year Lease.

792-3431 Apply with: References, Income-Verification and Credit Checks.

First PEST CONTROL and Last Months Rent AND WILD ANIMAL Required. By Appointment Only, call 519-736-4473 CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING between 9:00 a.m. to 5 since p.m. and leave a detailed AMHERSTBURG 1988. Call 519-736-2448. message.

Pauline Thomas

WANTED TO BUY and days before that too.

SCRAMBLE ANSWER

SUDOKU ANSWERS

TOASTED

Beloved wife, mother and grandmother

SUDOKU ANSWERS

Oct 14th, 1952 to Feb 11, 2023

I Thought of You Today I thought of you with love today, but that’s nothing new.

I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too.

I think of you in silence, I often speak your name.

All I have are memories and a picture in a frame.

Your memory is a keepsake, with which I’ll never part.

God has you in his keeping, I have you in my heart.

-Unknown Author

Love Gary, and family

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Lisa Marie Yancy October 9, 1968 - January 26, 2024

It is with great sadness the family of Lisa Marie Yancy (nee Reaume) announce her peaceful passing with her loving family by her side, on January 26, 2024, at the age of 55. Wife of Perry Yancy, daughter of Larry and Lorna Reaume.

Sister to Steve (2011), daughter-in-law to Nancy and David Copeland. Lisa will be lovingly remembered by her husband of 29 years Perry Yancy, and her children Kayla (Scott), Tara (Kemmy). She will be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Alaina 8, and Lucas 6, who were her greatest joy. Lisa will be missed dearly by many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and co-workers. Her favourite times were spent with her grandkids. She was an avid reader, walker, camper and especially a sports fan along with her father.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of her life will take place in the spring.

Evelyn Marie Talbot (nee Rocheleau)

Sept. 18, 1924 - Jan. 25 2024 Our beloved mom and mim passed away peacefully at the age of 99. Reunited with Edward (2009), the love of her life for over 67 years. Proud and loving mother of Norm (Lynn), Robert (1953), Gerald (1991), Nelson (Gloria 2016), Yvonne (Bob), Rachael (Jim 2011), and Tina (2015). Mim adored her 15 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 3 greatgreat grandchildren.

Born in Anderdon Township, the oldest child of William and Marie Louise (Drouillard) Rocheleau, she is survived by her youngest sibling Joseph Douglas (Maria) in Florida, and predeceased by 6 siblings: Hilda (E.T. Laframboise), Theresa (Red Lafleur), Elizabeth (Roger Lacroix), Adelard, Marguerite (Lawrence Papineau) and Mary Anne (Peter Kozyn).

Mim was known for hosting many family gatherings where she showcased her meat pies, meals and desserts. She lived her Catholic religion faithfully, and was a passionate euchre player and avid bingo player. Special thanks to staff for their loving care at Riverside Place - her home for the last few years.

A private family service was held and interment at St. John the Baptist Cemetery. Condolences or share memories at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca

Please Recycle this Paper

Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

North Star High School girls hockey team ties first place Essex

By Ron Giofu The North Star Wolves girls hockey team was all smiles after Monday afternoon’s game against the Essex Red Raiders Monday afternoon.

Neither the Wolves or Red Raiders managed a goal in the 0-0 tie but the 1-5-2 Wolves weren’t complaining.

Essex now has a 7-0-2 record and are in first place with North Star happy with how they matched up against the visitors.

“It was a good game. We played strong,” said defenseman Ava Mayrand.

Mayrand believes the tie will give the girls confidence going forward.

Defense partner Ireland Carter believed the Wolves are improving and they “played really well” against Essex.

“Our goalie played amazing,” Carter added, of Carsyn Atkinson.

North Star head coach Dan Pettypiece

North Star’s Ashley Mongeau takes a shot during Monday afternoon’s game versus the Essex Red Raiders at the Libro Centre. The two teams played to a 0-0 tie.

said he’s been coaching a long time and this was the type of game that makes him proud.

“It’s great to see how well they played,” he said. “We’re asking them to do things and they are doing them.

That’s all you can ask.”

The Wolves are still having trouble scoring goals, as they were shut out for the third straight game, all against Essex. They haven’t scored since a 3-1 loss to Kingsville Jan.15. Pettypiece said opportunities are there, including a near tap-in Monday, but they have to continue to drive to the net and move their feet. The same principle holds true defensively as they have to keep their feet moving.

“They played hard and that’s all you can ask as a coach,” said Pettypiece.

“They haven’t gotten discouraged.”

The Wolves are young this season but Pettypiece and the rest of the coaches and teacher sponsors see a bright future.

“I’m very proud of them,” said Pettypiece.

The final regular season game is next Tuesday in Kingsville at 3 p.m. Playoffs start after that.

Wolves boys hockey team hangs on to beat Riverside 3-2

PROOF FOR PUBLICATION

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“Our guys didn’t play well in the third and they took it to us. They made it a little closer than coaches like.”

Holden pointed out two of the Wolves’ goals came while shorthanded and that aided in the victory.

“That definitely helped our poor discipline situation,” said Holden.

North Star now has won three consecutive games and Holden believes they PUBLICATION: are starting to believe they are a better Feb.the 8, 2024 team than what start of the regular season indicated.

NOTE: Defenseman Ryken Atherton

The North Star Wolves boys hockey team celebrates after a 3-2 victory over the Riverside Stingers www.essexfreepress.com | issuu.com/essexfreepress Monday afternoon at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg.

explained they were getting fatigued in the third period.

“We just got a little tired and gave them two,” he said.

Overall, Atherton thought they played “a pretty good game” and pulled out the win.

Atherton said they will be looking to play a full three periods against Cardinal Carter, which is the Wolves’ regular season finale. That game is today (Wednesday) in Leamington against the Cardinal Carter Cougars starting at 3 p.m.

Transportation Master Plan

6 Centre St., Essex | P.O. Box 115, Essex, ON N8M 2Y1 | Ph: 519-776-4268 | Email: contact@essexfreepress.com

Jones scored first period goals while Please review your proof carefully & return with signature of approval, and/

By Ron Giofu

Sawyer Krokos added another in the urs: Mon.-Thurs. 9am-2pm, Fri. 9am-1pm, Closed Sat. & Sun. or indication of changes required, by 1:00 p.m. Friday prior to publication.

It was a lot closer than what they second to give North Star a 3-0 lead will publish 11,000 copies but of The Essex Maxey Free Press. wanted, but the North Your Star ad Wolves afterintwo period Carter boys hockey team held on to beat and Nathaniel Miron made it a close Riverside Monday afternoon. game with two third period goals for The Wolves hung on for a 3-2 win at the Stingers. the Libro Centre to improve to 3-3-1 on “It was a good two periods,” said the season. Tiago Goncalves and Kyle North Star head coach Glen Holden.

The River Town Times was advised Monday that someone used our name to try and tour a local apartment building.

While we publish “Apartment for Rent” ads, the RTT has no connection with providing tours or renting out apartments.

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We want your feedback!

You can provide feedback in 3 ways!

ATTEND the Public Open House Tuesday, February 15th, 5pm-7pm, at the Libro Centre, 3295 Meloche Road COMPLETE the Survey on Talk the Burg available February 13 - 29.

SUBMIT a comment.

ALL are WELCOME to this 2nd round of public engagement.

For more information talktheburg.ca/transportation

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, February 7, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

Join us on social!

AmherstburgTownHall Aburg_TownHall Wed

FEBRUARY

7

Committee of Adjustment Meeting 8AM Town Hall

Is Black History Month

Thurs

8

CANCELLED Heritage Committee Meeting 5:30PM Town Hall

Fri 9 Sat 10 Beginner Skating Paranormal 11:30-12:20PM Investigation Public Skating returns to the 12:30-2:20PM Park House Youth Skating Museum 4-4:50PM $25/person $4/person or Advanced tickets $12/family(max 5) required Adult Drop-In www.parkhouse Hockey museum.com 8-9:50PM Recycle $5/person

Sun 18 Mon LY D 19 I amherstburg.ca/ beactive Sunday “Funday” Turf Tots on Municipal The Indoor Turf Offices & Libro 9-11AM ~ FREE Closed Senior Public Monday Skating Garbage 6-6:50PM Collection will be $4/person picked up

22

FAM

15 Fri

AY!

14 Thurs 13 Wed Sun 11 Mon 12 Tues amherstburg.ca/ Special Council Transportation Meeting beactive Master Plan Drop In Planning 4PM Adult Sunday“Funday” Regular Council OPEN HOUSE Hockey Happy Meeting 6PM Libro Centre Turf Tots on 12-1PM Town Hall 5PM-7PM The Indoor Turf Valentine’s Cancelled Walking 9-11AM ~ FREE BIZ Discovery Day! Track @ The Libro Centre talktheburg.ca/ NO Senior Skate Biz Closed 34:30pm Today 6:00-6:50PM Tues

“NEW”

20

Wed

By-Law Complaints now submitted in person at Town Hall or visit: amherstburg.ca/ bylawcomplaint

Saturday, Feb 17

Do you have your Business Licence?

New this year!

The Town recently passed a New Business Licensing By-law 2023-066, which requires annual business licensing for a wide range of different businesses. Whether your business requires an annual licence may have changed and depends on the type of business, each with varying deadlines.

Please submit your business licence application before the due date. You can check your licence due date by visiting Amherstburg.ca/bizlicence.

To find out if your business is subject to an annual Business License, contact the Licensing Department at: 519-736-0012 ext. 2219 or visit amherstburg.ca/bizlicence.

Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting 5PM Town Hall

21

Thurs

16

DEADLINE January 19

Summer Student Lottery Job Opportunities amherstburg.ca/ careers

TENTATIVE: Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Meeting 5PM Town Hall

Sat

17

Monday, January 19th Garbage Collection will be picked up Saturday, January 17th

Sat 24 23 Beginner Skating Test your Smoke 11:30-12:20PM Alarm!

Youth Skating 4-4:50PM $4/person or $12/family(max 5) Adult Drop-In Hockey 8-9:50PM $5/person NO Public Skating 12:30-2:20PM Fri

talktheburg.ca/bellevue

Council is seeking resident input on the proposed Belle Vue manor project, specifically around public use and ownership options.

Former glory

To complete the short survey or to learn more about this exciting proposal, visit talktheburg.ca/bellevue.

Deadline March 6, 2024 Those who need assistance with accommodation to complete the survey can contact Town Hall: 519-736-0012 or accessibility@amherstburg.ca.

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