River Town Times - January 17, 2024

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Wednesday, January 17, 2024

Amherstburg man wins Brentwood Lottery grand prize

By Ron Giofu The grand prize in the Brentwood Lottery has significant Amherstburg connections, as it was not only built by a local builder but it has now been won by a local resident.

The home, which is actually located at 49 Pereira Dr. in Harrow, was built by a team led by Nor-Built Construction but it was David Mickle who was the big winner last Saturday afternoon.

Mickle’s number was called – specifically ticket number B-123890 – and he was announced as the home winner to a cheering crowd in the auditorium at Brentwood Recovery Home in Windsor. It was the final prize of 23 that was awarded Saturday and Mickle was the only winner from Amherstburg.

“To be quite honest, we are quite dumbfounded that we got the phone call,” Mickle told the River Town Times later Saturday afternoon. “We are overwhelmed and grateful at the end of the day. I still don’t know what to say.”

Mickle noted he buys Brentwood Lottery tickets “periodically” but does not purchase them every year. This is the first time he has won anything in the Brentwood Lottery and noted it was his biggest win in any lottery or raffle anywhere. He knew the draw was coming up but didn’t keep up with when the draw date was.

“It certainly caught me out of the blue,” he said. “It was a total surprise.”

Unlike previous years where there was a cash alternative, the home itself will be awarded this year.

Mickle was unsure last Saturday afternoon what their plans are for the home.

“We have no idea at this time,” he said. “We’re still processing the whole thing. No idea what we’re going to do with it right now.”

Mickle anticipated meeting with Brentwood officials and builder Norbert Bolger this week to claim the home and then decide whether to keep it or sell it.

“We’ll see what goes from there,” said Mickle.

Mickle’s phone rang constantly ever since the announcement he was the dream home winner. Family and friends called to congratulate him and his family.

Paul McCann, director of fund development and community engagement with Brentwood Recovery Home, contacts dream home winner David Mickle with the news he won the home (top photo). Builder Norbert Bolger of Nor-Built Construction addresses the crowd at Brentwood (below left). The home, located at 49 Pereira Dr. in Harrow, is seen at bottom right.

“We’re extremely grateful to Brentwood and very fortunate,” he said.

Elizabeth Dulmage, executive director of Brentwood

Recovery Home, said the excitement could be felt throughout Brentwood.

Continued on Page 7

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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Role of audit and finance committee during budget process debated

By Ron Giofu The role of the Amherstburg audit and finance committee during the budget process was debated during the first budget deliberation session.

John Purdie presented twice to town council, once on behalf of the committee and its motions and a second delegation with more topics of discussion that took place during the Dec. 18 meeting. The debate that ensued ranged from the committee’s involvement, what they did and didn’t discuss due to time constraints, and the terms of reference.

Purdie said they discussed issue papers within the budget documents and not the proposed tax increase itself. In the past, Purdie said the audit and finance committee meet three to four time as opposed to once this budget cycle, adding there is “usually a more in-depth analysis.”

Councillor Diane Pouget said she attended the Dec. 18 committee meeting and they had two hours to make their recommendations. She noted town council was given three days to have its discussions, adding the budget was tabled Dec. 4.

“I’m very, very disturbed by this,” she said. “I think it’s very unfair.”

Pouget added she values the work of the committee, as they have found items in the past that town council may not have been aware of.

Councillor Peter Courtney added if the committee felt it had time to do the work it wanted, asking if there was a way to accommodate the committee going forward.

Purdie said the committee didn’t believe it had the time to fulfill the requirements of town council. He indicated the committee didn’t go into the depth and breadth they usually do, wanted prior year numbers, didn’t had comparable numbers from other surrounding municipalities and wondered why the budget couldn’t have been deliberated in February or March.

Other issues the committee had included analyzing risk factors such as underfunded capital projects, cost/ benefit analysis of major projects and an over-reliance of the town on the

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residential tax base.

CAO Valerie Critchley said she has been involved in developing municipal budgets for 21 years and has never drafted a base budget based on what other municipalities do. It is difficult to find good comparative municipalities, though best practices can be obtained.

As for doing the budget early in the season, Critchley stated it is advantageous in order to get better pricing when putting out construction tenders.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, an audit and finance committee member, said he found the meeting informative and much of the information they are requesting is already publicly available. He added the budget documents were presented “well ahead of time” for review.

Gibb later added he believes the focus of the committee should change, believing the town’s financial status has improved since it was first founded. He added it wasn’t the purview of the committee to talk tax rate, adding he didn’t want council to give that responsibility to someone else.

If the committee wanted to meet again, why didn’t they, was a question of Councillor Don McArthur. Clerk Kevin Fox said administration would have accommodated that request, but Pouget said the committee’s terms of reference impacted the ability to make that happen.

McArthur also questioned the statement about the tax rate, stating programs and spending that was discussed relate to the tax rate.

Councillor Linden Crain didn’t recall a request by the committee to change the terms of reference.

Purdie added the committee did discuss convening again, but timing was stringent and there was no mandate on what to work on.

Pouget made a motion to have the presentations from the committee and Purdie at the next regular council meeting so elected officials can discuss ways to enhance terms of reference and the budget process. It lost in a 5-2 vote with Pouget and Councillor Molly Allaire in favour, though McArthur indicated he would be open to discussing a report but not hearing

the entire presentations again.

Courtney added he liked more “eyes and brains” looking at the budget but it was “redundant” to have the presentations made again. Gibb wanted the committee to focus on the upcoming 2023 year-end numbers while Mayor Michael Prue said he chaired the committee last term and values its input.

Prue added he didn’t see the need for the presentations to be made again.

The mayor added he didn’t see the need to discuss the terms of reference Monday night with it being possible to discuss it in the future.

Pouget pressed on, stating the terms of reference need to be looked at, and was the only council member to oppose simply receiving Purdie’s presentations. She would challenge the chair, but that fell short. She said she showed her motion to Prue prior to the meeting and he was supportive, but he responded he heard other members of council out.

“I have to listen to council,” he said.

“It’s the duty of the mayor to find consensus.”

Town council continued budget deliberations as this issue of the River Town Times went to press.

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Book Review

By: Lucy Ruth Cummins Reminisce in the joy of going swimming on a hot summer day. The excitement of joining your family, friends, and neighbours at the community pool comes alive through vibrant and colourful illustrations.

Lucy Ruth Cummins provides an abundance of diverse characters and brings to life the sights, sounds, and smells of our childhood. Dive into this storybook with your children; it’s sure to be a family favourite.

Review by: Bookseller Darrie-Ann

Leave the World Behind By: Rumaan Alam

Don’t let the bad Netflix movie fool you -this book is a masterpiece. A family of four takes some time to relax outside the city when it happens: the internet, phone service,and broadcast signals all go out.

Why? Well, they don’t really know, and neither will you. The point of this book isn’t the apocalypse, it’s about what’s left after the fact. It’s about circumstance, and the people around you; humanity and the mundane. A unique writing style and an abstract plot combine to create a beautiful novel that will make you consider what’s right in front of you.

Review by: Bookseller Taylor

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 3

www.rivertowntimes.com

Barn fire causes an estimated $200,000 in damage

Legion crowns literacy, poster winners

RTT PHOTOS

BY RON GIOFU Amherstburg firefighters extinguish a barn fire behind a home in the 1400 block of Front Road South. Approximately 20 chickens were killed as a result of the fire with a motorcycle and machine shop destroyed.

By Ron Giofu A barn fire at an Amherst Pointe property caused roughly $200,000 damage, according to the Amherstburg Fire Department.

All three stations were called to the fire, which was in a smaller barn structure behind a home in the 1400 block of Front Road South last Thursday morning. A smaller barn, which housed chickens, was completely destroyed while another barn on the site sustained some damage.

A third barn on the property was saved, added Amherstburg deputy fire chief Dan Monk. “(The property owner) has to replace some siding,” Monk said on the second structure.

Monk said it is suspected that a heat lamp to keep the chickens warm while in the small barn toppled over and caused the fire. It is not clear what caused the heat lamp to fall over.

There were about 20 chickens in the small barn, Monk estimated.

The structure that was destroyed also housed a machine shop and a motorcycle, the deputy fire chief added.

There were no injuries, Monk stated.

The call came in at approximately 6:40 a.m. with snow showers hitting

the area as fire crews worked to extinguish the blaze.

“Due to the time of day, we had to call all three station so we had enough manpower,” said Monk.

Amherstburg firefighters were on scene for approximately four hours, Monk added.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Branch 157 recently recognized winners of its poem and poster contest. The winners move on to the district level. Those in attendance included (front row, from left) Nolan McGuire (Poster), Connor Bondy (Poster). Back row (from left) Hailey King (Poster), Jaxon Harris (Poster), Olive Beaudoin (Poem), Gwen Beaudoin (Poem), Maya Lewenza (Poster). Absent was Isaac Atkinson.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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Town council distributes $60,000 in the form of community grants

By Ron Giofu Town council had over $129,000 in community grant requests, chopped it down to $60,000 though the original budgeted amount was just over $43,000.

Deliberations on the 2024 operating and capital budgets continued Tuesday after this issue of the RTT went to press, and depending on how things went, resume today at town hall. During the first night of deliberations Monday, town council upped the total amounts given to community groups to $60,000.

Some applicants will receive exactly what they asked for, others will get less than they wanted while some will receive nothing at all.

Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) had their $15,000 request granted, with the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission getting the full $20,000 they had requested.

“They do so much for the community,” Councillor Diane Pouget said of ACS. Pouget added Diageo retirees helped with food bank donations, where it was learned there is a dramatic increase in need.

“They can account for every penny,” said Pouget, of ACS. Mayor Michael Prue agreed with

comments from Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb and Councillor Linden Crain that they were making tough decisions, but Prue believed the donations were worth it. He said if they can invest in equipment, they can invest in people, adding he is proud to live in a community with such groups as ACS and the mission.

“I’m proud of those they help,” he stated. “I will go out there to the wrath of the taxpayer and say they are worth it.”

Prue estimated the increase in that budget item was one-eighth of one per cent.

Gibb said if there were increases over the $43,000, it would have to come through the tax levy.

“If we want to increase the base budget, I can be talked into it,” he said.

“If we fund it from reserves, I’ll have to say no.”

News wasn’t quite as good for the Amherstburg Historic Sites Association (AHSA), which operates the Park House Museum, and the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. The latter will not receive its requested $8,500, but rather $5,687. The AHSA will get $10,110.

Both are 64 per cent of what they had requested, as town council tried to divide up the additional funding it had approved for community grants.

After $750 was approved for Christ Church and over $8,400 was earmarked for the non-profit apartments at 182 Pickering Dr. due to a contractual commitment, council was going to divide the rest and give $7,898.50 to the Amherstburg Freedom Museum and AHSA. Prue argued the AHSA would get hurt by the move.

“I hardly think this is fair,” said Prue.

Prue said the Freedom Museum draws American tourists and has “excellent fundraisers,” and believed they could absorb a hit better than the Park House Museum. The latter operates on a “shoestring” budget with curator Stephanie Pouget-Papak putting in a lot of hours for what she is paid. If they lost nearly $10,000, he feared the worst.

“Nothing we do is fair,” countered Crain, noting most local municipalities don’t provide grants. “We’re shifting money on the fly. We’re going above and beyond already.”

Town council deferred a request from the Fort Malden Golden Age Club to waive user fees to use the building at 179 Victoria St. S. Pouget noted they have been waived for years with the club giving back to the community in many ways, but Gibb questioned giving them use of the building for free, citing minor hockey,

minor soccer, the Fighting Island Boxing Club and The House Youth Centre among others pay to use town facilities.

Director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture Heidi Baillargeon gave a rough estimate that waiving fees could total over $60,880 but noted that is based on Libro Centre rates, with rates for 179 Victoria St. S. not finalized.

The VON Student Nutrition program requested $12,000, MADD requested $3,000 and Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 asked for $55,000, the latter to assist with repairs to the Dalhousie St. building.

Prue joined Councillor Don McArthur and Councillor Peter Courtney in conflict as all three are Legion members, with McArthur adding his band plays regular gigs there.

The Legion’s request was defeated in a 3-1 vote, with Pouget supporting. She said the Legion regularly gives back to the community and feared for its future if they were told no.

“I think it would be a real slap in the face if we said no to them,” she said.

Gibb noted there is tax relief provided to the Legion while Councillor Molly Allaire would have preferred it going towards programming rather than the building, though acknowledged it is a great organization.

U11 Stars win hockey tournament The Amherstburg Stars U11 hockey team recently tasted success thanks to a tournament victory. The U11 Team from Amherstburg went undefeated (5-0) to win the Belle River Memorial Representative Hockey Tournament.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Assistance from the federal level required to deal with former Boblo dock At one time, this area had a powerful MP that would have found a way and means to remove those hazardous decrepit old Boblo docks, and not in years.

Being on a major transportation route,

and with many pleasure craft using the river, this hazard has no warning lights on it. Yes, the locals might know it’s there, but there was an issue in Leamington when people struck the breakwall.

So when I get mail telling me how poorly the government of the day is doing, (and I don’t care which government it is), that is not what I want to hear.

I want to know what he/she is doing for us.

Right now, on this subject, no action.

—Kurt Reffle Amherstburg

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

Ron Giofu

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

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

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

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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, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 5

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Essex County council looks to reduce financial impact on residents

By Fred Groves It was a marathon session in Essex last week as Essex County council weeded its way through the proposed 2024 budget.

After nearly six hours of deliberation last Wednesday night, county council could not come to a final decision.

The current increase to taxpayers is 6.13 percent but the administration has been directed to trim that down to 4.95 by this Wednesday (January 17).

“All of you know at your local levels, know that this has not been an easy year to prepare a budget,” said Essex County CAO Sandra Zwiers.

One of the hiccups in the process, which began in July, was when Zwiers moved from being the director of financial services/treasurer into the CAO’s chair. Melissa Ryan is now in charge of the county’s finances.

“It’s tough times but on the flip side, it’s exciting times. We’ve approved our first ever strategic plan and we are on the cusp of some really, really great things,” said Zwiers.

Essex County’s proposed budget is $157,169,120, up from the previous year of $146,447,460. Ryan noted in her overview presentation, that there are numerous factors for the increase of $10.7 million.

“Some common contributions to the increase across the board includes contractual wage increases, significant health benefit increases from Green Shield as well as OMERS (pension) contributions. Our parttime employees are now eligible,” said Ryan.

Breaking down the budget, 39 per cent of the overall operating expenses goes to infrastructure and planning services. That department could see

Warden Hilda MacDonald and her Essex County colleagues will continue to look at their 2024 budget this week after a marathon budget session last Wednesday night in Essex.

an increase from $49.3 million up to $52 million.

Factored in, among other things, are the CWATS Master Plan and the transportation plan.

“The goal of infrastructure services is to execute to a level to maintain infrastructure in a state of good repair,” explained director Allan Botham. “We strive to deliver timely and quality services that adapts to changing cultures and challenges.”

There have been a lot of challenges facing the county and local municipal governments when it comes to budgets.

In her opening remarks to county council, Ryan noted that there was a new layer to the process this year which involved each department having the opportunity to view each other’s final numbers. She

also said that the volatile inflation puts a financial strain on the county.

Outside of the infrastructure and planning, external Commitments take 27 per cent of the overall budget and some of those commitments are mandatory and legislated by the province. There is a proposed 6.8 per cent jump from $34,352,060 up to 36,096,460 which includes a social housing agreement with the City of Windsor.

Community services/residential services could see a whopping increase of 35.9 per cent which includes a commitment to the Bridge Supporting Housing project. In 2023 the budget for this department was $563,050 which could be increased to $764,930.

The Sun Parlour Home could see an increase of 17.74 percent up to $14,190.040 from $12,052.500.

Emergency services could go up 7.80 per cent and Library Services are looking at a 12.5 per cent jump.

General government services has the smallest departmental budget which is asking for a 3.8 percent hike.

There was a lot of discussion from councillors on several issues including staffing levels. As pointed out by Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt, when current county clerk Mary Birch retires this year, the county will hire two people to replace her.

“Reviewing and setting the budget is one of the most important jobs council performs,” said Leamington Mayor and County Warden Hilda MacDonald. “I don’t think the public always appreciates the work, the homework and the pressure we feel when we work on budgets.”

MacDonald added that it is a great responsibility and the county needs to show financial restraint but at the same time improve the quality of life and services for its residents.

Multiple Black History Month events being planned for February

By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Freedom Museum is teaming with a local retailer to help present a number of Black History Month events.

The museum has partnered with the River Bookshop to present five events in February.

“We’re calling it ‘Centuries of Progress: A Celebration of Black History Month’,” explained Meghan Desjardins, lead bookseller at River Bookshop. “This year, all of our events will be at the museum.”

The first event will be Feb. 1 and will be a book launch for “Black Activist, Black Scientist, Black Icon: The Autobiography of Dr. Howard McCurdy” and will feature McCurdy’s friend Dr. George Elliott Clarke and his wife Dr. Brenda McCurdy, the latter being on the museum’s board of directors.

“We wanted to have authors involved,” said museum assistant curator Dr. Lorene Bridgen-Lennie.

The book was almost completed during Howard’s lifetime but was finished by his wife and friend.

“It’s his wife who gives a personal touch to things,” said Bridgen-Lennie.

The book launch will be free of charge to attend and start at 5:30 p.m.

There will be two performances by the Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO) this year, as opposed to one last year. Both will be ticketed events and more information will be placed on the museum’s website at www.amherstburgfreedom.org.

The first concert is Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. and will be a family concert, targeted for all ages.

“We’re trying to engage children a lot more,” said Bridgen-Lennie.

The second concert will be Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Both will be inside the Nazrey AME Church.

“We’re really excited to offer two (concerts) this

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time,” said Desjardins.

There will also be a youth art class in the studio of Black artist Dennis K. Smith Feb. 10 at 2 p.m. This is a free event but space is limited to 15 people. Smith’s “dKs Studio and Gallery” is located at 1130 Minto Ave. in LaSalle.

“What we’re trying to show students who participate is what it is like to be a Black artist,” said Bridgen-Lennie.

“He wants students to engage with a Black artist,” added museum curator Mary-Katherine Whelan.

“He wants to inspire young people.”

To register, e-mail curator@amherstburgfreedom. org or visit amherstburgfreedom.org The fifth event is a panel discussion title “A

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Conversation about Women’s Empowerment and Community Engagement” and will feature speakers Irene Moore Davis, Shantelle Browning-Morgan, Rose Anguiano Hurst, Kaitlyn Ellsworth, and Leslie McCurdy. The event will be moderated by museum board member Cari-Lynn Ristic. That event will be Feb. 17 at 2 p.m. and will be free.

Bridgen-Lennie said Black History Month is a chance to educate people on the importance of the history and what happened in this area. Desjardins said people can learn about local history. Whelan added they are excited to welcome the public to learn more and engage with them, adding they want to make the events “as accessible to the public as possible.”

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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Heritage committee endorses interior work at downtown building

By Ron Giofu Interior renovations to a downtown building were endorsed by the town’s heritage committee last week.

The building at 63-73 Murray St. will see interior work conducted with the heritage committee hearing the plans last Thursday evening. According to a report from heritage planner Adam Coates, the owners of the building have applied to the building department to demolish the interior of the second level, reconfigure the rear entrance and reconstruct entrances on the side and rear of the building.

Coates said much of what will be removed on the second floor is not original to the building.

The report outlines the interior walls for the apartments that were upstairs are not original and “are in poor condition.” The interior walls, as well as cabinetry and “other elements” in the units “do not have cultural heritage value.”

Baseboards on exterior walls may be original, Coates stated, and stated the applicants have indicated they intend to save those.

Windows on the second floor were described by Coates as being in “fair to poor condition based on initial visual inspection” will not be worked on at the present time.

“The applicant is proposing to remove the drop ceiling of the second level. At some point a drop ceiling was added to the second level, likely when the apartments were constructed. This drop ceiling has no value,” Coates stated. “During the site visit, the Heritage Planner was able to see above the drop ceiling and noticed that the original ceiling height is roughly fivefeet above the drop ceiling. The plaster of the original height ceiling has signs of water damage and some areas have been removed to accommodate renovations and updated mechanical chases.”

Coates added: “In the ceiling cavity the structural columns could be easily viewed. These slim columns have Corinthian-style capitals. These columns have potential cultural heritage value. The applicant intends to leave the columns (they are structural) and refinish them as part of a future scope of work.”

The report also identifies that a

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU Interior renovations to upper floor units at the building at 63-73 Murray St. have been endorsed by the Amherstburg heritage committee. The building is part of the proposed “Anchor District” in the town’s downtown core.

separated entrance is being proposed for access to the basement, requiring a reconfiguration of interior walls around existing stairs and a new entrance at the rear of the building.

Brick infill around doors on the east side of the building is being proposed for removal, replaced by doors and windows in the original opening size.

Current doors are not original, Coates stated.

Wood stairs and a wood patio at the rear of the building are also scheduled to be removed with Coates stating “there are no potential heritage attributes associated with the removal of this item.”

Lauri Brouyette, representing the ownership of the buildings at 63-73 Murray St. and 70 Murray St., outlined some of their plans to the committee.

“We have done this in a couple of different phases,” said Brouyette. “We learned through our experiences at 70 Murray St. that once you uncover what’s actually in there, you get a number of surprises.”

Brouyette told committee members their architect is working on a second set of plans, with the current plan to remove exterior stairs and have a terrace at the back.

ACF outlines its 2023 accomplishments The Amherstburg Community Foundation has continued to fulfill its mission to help make Amherstburg the best small town in Ontario to live, visit and enjoy.

In 2023, ACF said goodbye to some of our board members - we sent Richard Peddie and Dan Gemus off with thanks and gratitude for their hard work serving the foundation. We shuffled our executive board with Lori Wightman taking over as president and Jen Desjardins-Grondin stepping into the vice president role. We welcomed new directors, Laura D’Alessandro, Paul McAllister, Erin King, Courtney Sweet and Patricia Simone, putting new faces and fresh ideas into place.

ACF helped to raise funds for a number of local projects both big and small that met our values of being

healthy, inspiring and inclusive. Some of the projects we awarded grants to in 2023 were the Windsor-Essex VON Amherstburg Student Nutrition Program, WEBC Libro Trails Phase 1, Senior Caring Bench at 182 Pickering, Essex County Library, Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission shed replacement, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Sleep Easy Program, Cat Assistance Team TNR program, ACS IT equipment, Wings Rehab facilities update, and Runaways Farm pasture #2.

The entire board of ACF looks forward to a 2024 that brings us even more that we can do to make Amherstburg even better!

—Submitted by ACF president Lori Wightman

Future applications are anticipated for work on the exterior, Coates indicated.

“It is the Heritage Planner’s opinion that the current proposed scope of work would not impact potential heritage attributes or the character of the property. This property is a candidate for full designation status under the Ontario Heritage Act. The owner is a steward of heritage properties, but the extent of future proposed work is not clear at this time. Although this property is within the study area for the Heritage Conservation District, the district is likely not to be adopted prior

applicant needing to complete further work on the property,” he said. “There is low cultural risk associated with the proposed scope of work. The proposed work is mainly interior demolition and removal of infill brick on the east elevation. That being said, this property will be seeing future applications for work to be completed on the exterior.”

Coates told the committee the work is adjacent to the work being done by the same applicants currently working on the building across the street at 70 Murray St. The buildings are in the proposed “Anchor District.”

“Through what I saw on site, there was nothing of heritage or potential heritage value in what they are proposing to remove,” Coates said.

The building dates back to 1877, built

by John Kolfage two years after a fire destroyed structures on the block that had been owned by Kolfage. Coates said the property currently sits as a property of interest with non-designated status.

“I think what these proponents did with 70 Murray St., gives at least myself a great deal of confidence, that they’re the proper stewards for this building,” said Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb. “I’m very confident in what they’ve done. The fact the heritage planner signed off on it, I’d see no reason we’d get in their way.”

“I would agree 100 per cent on that,” added committee chair Simon Chamely.

During last Thursday evening’s meeting, Chamely was re-acclaimed as chair while Shirley Curson-Prue returns as vice chair. Other committee members include Gibb, Councillor Linden Crain, Frank DiPasquale, Robert Honor and Stephanie Pouget-Papak.

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 7

www.rivertowntimes.com

Province announces funding under Bail Compliance & Warrant Apprehension program

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi (left) shakes hands with Staff Sgt. Brian Caffarena of the WIndsor Police Service - Amherstburg Detachment after Leardi announced local funding under the Bail Compliance and Warrant Apprehension program

By RTT Staff The Ontario government is providing $2.2 million to LaSalle Police Services and Windsor Police Services to help prevent repeat and violent offenders from committing serious crimes while out on bail, Essex MPP Anthony Leardi’s office announced last week.

The funding is part of the province’s plan to help protect communities, support victims of crime and keep people safe, a media release from Leardi’s office stated.

“Repeat, violent offenders belong in jail – full stop,” said Leardi. “I am very pleased that our government is making investments to keep our community

Please join me and my team for our

NEW YEAR’S LEVEE Sunday, January 21, 2024 from 1-3PM Essex Constituency Office 35 Victoria Ave, Unit 7B Essex

CHRIS.LEWIS@PARL.GC.CA CHRISLEWISMP.CA 519-776-4700

safe from violence.”

Through the Bail Compliance and Warrant Apprehension (BCWA) Grant program, the government states it is investing $24 million across the province to “help establish dedicated bail compliance and/or warrant apprehension teams to monitor high-risk individuals.” The funding is being delivered over three years and will also support new technology for a province-wide bail compliance monitoring system.

“It is unacceptable that repeat and violent offenders are committing serious crimes while out on bail,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “By giving police the tools they need to track and arrest offenders who violate their bail conditions, our government is helping to ensure Ontario is one of the safest jurisdictions in Canada.”

A media release from Leardi’s office touts the BCWA Grant as being part of a $112 million investment “to strengthen the province’s bail system and ensure repeat and violent offenders comply with their bail and court-ordered conditions.”

Other initiatives include the creation

of a Bail Compliance Unit within the OPP’s Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) Squad, the establishment of Intensive Serious Violent Crime Bail Teams within the court system, and a new province-wide bail compliance dashboard to help monitor high-risk offenders with the most accurate data possible “We are grateful to our provincial partners for coming through on funding this very important initiative that will enhance our capacity to track down wanted persons and enforce conditions of judicial release including bail,” said LaSalle police chief Duncan Davies stated in a news release. “We are pleased to partner with the Windsor Police Service and local Crown Attorney’s office by committing the necessary resources to this joint venture with the ultimate goal of making our respective communities more safe and secure.”

According to the province, the BCWA Grant program will support 17 municipal police services, four First Nations police services and 12 Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) services.

Nearly 700 Brentwood tickets sold

Continued from Page 1

“It’s a wonderful, positive energy,” she said.

The Brentwood Lottery offered over $1 million in total prizes and Dulmage said just shy of 700 tickets were sold this year.

“We were a little bit lower than last year,” said Dulmage.

Dulmage thanked everyone from the staff and volunteers, to the sponsors and ticket purchasers, adding “it takes a village” to present it annually. She said the numbers aren’t in yet, but estimated Saturday the lottery would bring in more than $500,000 in revenue for Brentwood Recovery Home. It is their largest fundraiser of the year.

Now held electronically, the lottery was in its 32nd year.

Brentwood Recovery Home has 68 beds and Dulmage said 43 are funded in part by the Ministry of Health. The additional 25 are paid for through fundraising efforts.

“I cannot emphasize enough the importance the lottery is to us,” she said.

Other Amherstburg connections included the Ford Mustang coming through Joe Meloche Ford and Re-Lighting being one of the many sponsors. Lynn’s Variety was also thanked for helping to sell tickets.

“Lynn’s has been a long-term seller and friend of Brentwood,” said Dulmage. “Lynn and her husband are important parts of the Brentwood family.”

Paul McCann, director of fund development and community engagement with Brentwood, said ticket sales began Oct. 1 and lasted three months.

McCann said it was a lot of work and a team effort to present the lottery again this year. He recalled a story he was told while selling tickets about the impact of Brentwood and said it is important the lottery be successful every year.

Ken Courtenay, Brentwood board

chair, called it “a fun day” but pointed out the importance of the Brentwood Lottery as well.

“Brentwood saved my life,” he said.

“The reality is we need this to stay open.”

Courtenay thanked Bolger for the partnership and praised the work of everyone connected to Brentwood and the lottery.

Bolger said there were “hundreds” that were involved in building the home, something that took three months.

“We are blessed to be part of this,” he said. “It was really a big group effort.”

The other winners included Lloyd Chase of Windsor (50/50 draw of $143,100), Patrick St. Denis of Windsor (2024 Ford Mustang or $44,472), Shawn Hopkins of Lakeshore (2024 Jeep Wrangler Sport or $51,436), Amy Schauber of Tecumseh (2024 Chevrolet Colorado or $48, 974), Jamie De’Ath of Newmarket ($25,000) and Simon Nader of Windsor ($10,000).

Winners of $5,000 were Lucille Mailloux of Belle River and Susan Buxton of Windsor. Those who won $1,000 were Brenda LeClair of Windsor, Curti Babula of Dresden, Pauline Butler of Belle River, Denise Diesbourg of Belle River, Rochelle Robitaille of Windsor, Zaher Hanna of Windsor, Sonja Barrett of London and Tim O’Connell of Maple.

Winners of $500 were Shirley Lafleur of LaSalle, Wyman Atkinson of Windsor, John Lisqum of Windsor, Kevin O’Neill of Toronto, Robert & Debbie Gordon of Windsor, Emile Lavoie of Windsor.

According to its website, the mandate of the Brentwood Recovery Home is: “As an integral part of the addictions and mental health continuum, Brentwood provides lifelong, compassionate and evidence-informed treatment to people whose primary goal is lifelong recovery from alcohol and drug misuse. Additionally, we provide on-going, community-based support for family members.”

8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

OVER $19 MILLION IN GRANTS FOR

THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG The Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund (OCIF) provides funding to help small, rural and northern communities renew and rehabilitate critical infrastructure.

The Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF) is the province’s main general assistance grant which supports northern and rural municipalities in Ontario.

The Town of Amherstburg has received over $19 million in grants from the provincial government since 2019.

Year

OCIF

2019

1,719,806

2020

1,732,420

2021

1,732,420

1,325,800

2022

3,194,879

1,326,400

2023

3,007,975

1,220,900

2024

2,556779

1,218,700

Total Since 2019

13,944,279

5,091,800

ANTHONY LEARDI MPP - Essex

CONSTITUENCY OFFICE 310 Thomas Rd. Amherstburg, ON N9V 2Y9 Tel: 519-736-1550 • Email: anthony.leardi@pc.ola.org

OMPF

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 9

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CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, you will not make inroads with family or friends if you continue to play the victim. You must own up to any mistakes you’ve made and start making amends this week.

Kathy Leeman shows one of the bags and a mat created from milk bags. She and a group of volunteers she works with are looking for donations of milk bags so they can create the bags and mats for homeless people in the area.

Local volunteers creating bags, mats out of old milk bags

By Ron Giofu A local woman and a team of volunteers are turning milk bags into bags and mats to help the homeless.

Kathy Leeman started converting milk bags into bags and mats for the homeless when she lived in Kingsville.

Now that her family has moved to Amherstburg, Leeman has continued finding a new use for the milk bags.

“As a senior, I was looking for something to do,” said Leeman.

The bags are cut, folded and tied into loops that are linked together until a mat or a bag is completed.

Approximately 1,000 milk bags are required to create a mat while about 200-250 milk bags are needed to make a bag.

Leeman said during the Christmas season, bags were donated to those in need and they were filled with toiletries and other items they may have needed.

The Kingsville group took care of those in need in the eastern side of Essex County, Leeman added,

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Sometimes the best defense is remaining quiet and letting others dig themselves into a deeper hole, Aquarius. Others will see your positive efforts for all they are.

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 14

Gary Leeman cuts some of the milk bags that are being converted into mats and bags for the homeless. In addition to local schools, milk bags can be dropped off at the Libro Centre, the Amherstburg Community Hub and at the Fort Malden Golden Age Club at 179 Victoria St. S.

including to a Leamington-based organization called “The Bridge,” that assists youth and young adults between the ages of 14-24. When she moved to Amherstburg, she wanted to ensure people in this part of the county were also taken care of. There are no specific charities or individuals they work with on a full-time basis, with Leeman adding she and her team will work with any organization or person that contacts them.

Leeman stated she is the “Amherstburg liaison” for the Kingsville group.

Street Help is one organization that has reached out, and Leeman stated they have partnered with them to help people in need.

“We concentrate on Amherstburg as much as we can,” said Leeman.

“If I have extra, they stay within Essex County. It could reach out into Windsor.”

Donations of yarn are also being sought, with the yarn converted into blankets and washcloths for those who need it.

Help comes from the Fort Malden Golden Age Club, of which Leeman is a member. Seniors volunteer their time to help create the bags and mats, with those seniors with knowledge in sewing and crocheting being ones to help actually create the items.

The Fort Malden Golden Age Club is now based out of 179 Victoria St. S., and donations of milk bags and yarn are now being accepted at that building.

Donations are also being accepted at the Amherstburg Community Hub at 320 Richmond St., the Libro Centre and local schools including Amherstburg Public School, Anderdon Public School and Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School.

There are environmental benefits as well, she indicated, and the repurposing of the milk bags was how it was presented to schools. By donating them, the bags are kept out of the landfill and are reused for other needs.

For more information or if someone is willing to volunteer to help out, contact Leeman at 519-726-9058 or e-mail kgleeman99@cdpmail.ca.

10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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Rotary Club to seek grant funding to help support WEBC trail building

By Ron Giofu The Rotary Club of Amherstburg will be applying to the Rotary foundation for funding as the local club wants to support a cycling initiative.

James Braakman, Glyn Buck and Amanda Dywelska from the Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) appeared at the Rotary Club’s most recent meeting, held last Wednesday night in the community room at Amherstburg Community Services (ACS).

WEBC gained unanimous approval from town council at its Dec. 11 meeting to move forward with phase two of the four-phase trail project at the Libro Centre. The first phase was approved and completed in 2023 behind the berm that is next to the football/ soccer field and the main baseball diamond. The second phase will go next to it as it starts to wrap around the back of the arena building itself.

Braakman noted they raised $30,000 in six weeks for the initial phase and have started fundraising for phase two. They are official land stewards, having signed an agreement with the Town of Amherstburg.

“We completed the first phase in about three months, which is really fast,” said Braakman.

Braakman touted the first three kilometre trail as something that has brought the community together, noting there have been camps, races and group rides at the trail. Local schools such as North Star High School have used the trail as well.

The second biking trail would be about three to four kilometres and more of a cross country track without the mountain biking elements phase one has. Over 1,500 volunteer hours were used to create the first phase, said Braakman.

WEBC members bombarded town council members with over 100 e-mails calling for the approval of phase

Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) representatives James Braakman (left), Amanda Dywelska and Glyn Buck address the Rotary Club of Amherstburg last Wednesday evening in the community room at Amherstburg Community Services. The Rotary Club is applying for funding from its organization’s foundation to put towards a donation to WEBC.

two, which they received. Cost to constructed the second phase of the trail is estimated at $15,130 but WEBC is looking to raise between $20,000-$30,000 to help offset maintenance costs for the two phases.

Dywelska told the Rotarians that riding on the trails can be “as competitive or leisurely as you want it to be,” with the WEBC members stating they view the trails as inclusive due to people of all ages being able to utilize them.

Buck called the trail construction “a collaborative effort” that requires partnerships in the community.

“We need the help,” said Buck. “We need the support.”

Susanne Rainhard, acting president of the Rotary Club of Amherstburg, said they view the trails as a multi-use project. She added it also promotes health and wellness, including mental health, and that is a priority of the Rotary District 6400 this year. Rotarian

Firefighters up for a different kind of challenge, this one involving a frisbee

Jeremy Warnock added the request from WEBC “ticks off a lot of boxes” when it comes to getting a Rotary grant.

For more information on WEBC, visit www. webcride.com. To find out more about the Rotary Club, visit www.rotaryamherstburg.ca.

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RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES

It was end-to-end exciting action at the Libro Centre’s Indoor Turf Sunday night as the Amherstburg Firefighters Association accepted the challenge to play against the local Ultimate Frisbee players.

By Fred Groves Challenge extended and challenge accepted.

Over the Christmas Holidays, the Amherstburg Firefighters Association picked up the gauntlet tossed down by the Ultimate Frisbee Club and well, it was game on.

Sunday night at the Libro Centre on the indoor turf, the popular sport was in full gear as up and down the field they went, all vying for the not-so coveted Extinguish Award.

Under the direction of the Windsor Ultimate Frisbee club which started back in 2007, Amherstburg has hosted the game twice a week ever since the Libro Centre opened.

“It’s such a great field and an

affordable price,” said Molly Allaire, a town councillor and also a director with the local club and who helped organize the challenge.

Adults play the game for a couple of hours on Wednesdays and Sundays beginning at 7:30 p.m. and a Youth program runs on Tuesday and Wednesdays for those eight-and-up which gives parents a chance to play along.

According to Allaire, Ultimate Frisbee is a cross between basketball and football and teams of six aside go quickly from offence to defence. The scoring comes in when one of the teams successfully passes the disc to a teammate into the end zone.

“You can’t run with the disc, you

have to pass it,” she said.

There is no contact allowed but like some of the firefighters learned the hard way on Sunday, there can be collisions.

Scores can run into the high 80’s and 90’s per side and it is a great cardiovascular workout.

Sunday saw the Ultimate team take an early lead but once the firefighters picked up the game, just like they do when they answer the bell, they adapted and persevered. Final score, Ultimate Frisbee 32 Amherstburg Firefighters Association 20.

And while the Ultimate Team was able to take home the Extinguish Award, the rematch is set at the Libro Centre for April 14.

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 11

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Admirals score comeback win in Blenheim, lose to Essex

By Fred Groves

When you beat a team in the standings ahead of you, it’s good. When you come from behind to do it, it’s extra sweet.

Ryan Dufour scored 4:44 into overtime last Thursday night in Blenheim to lift the Amherstburg Admirals to a 6-5 win over the Blades. A bit of payback for the Admirals as the Blades beat the hosts in Amherstburg 7-5 just five days before.

“I don’t think Blenheim expected us to do that.

They thought we would give up but we didn’t,” said Admirals’ veteran defenceman Jadyn Brown.

The Blades built a comfortable 4-1 lead after 40 minutes but the visitors chipped away and with a pair of shorthanded goals with less than two minutes left in regulation time, sent the game into overtime where Dufour notched his fifth of the season.

“Right now, Dufour is putting the puck in the back of the net, he is seeing everything perfectly. I was confident getting him the puck,” said Brown, who along with rookie Brett Jones set up the winner.

Dufour has not only been scoring as of late but has turned into an excellent forechecker especially on the penalty kill.

Noting that the overtime win proves that Amherstburg can be a good team, Brown had something personally to celebrate as it was his 100th game for the Blue and White.

“He has to lead by example for our young

With Mitch Demelo providing support, Amherstburg goalie Josh Courtney makes one of his 35 stops against Essex.

defenceman and how to come to the rink prepared with a good attitude,” said Admirals coach Beau Hunter of Brown who is eligible for an over-age season next year.

Also scoring for Amherstburg on Thursday were Jacob Archer who had an outstanding offensive effort with three goals and an assist while Stefan Jacobs had a pair of tallies and a helper. The other goal came from centre Allan Djordjevic.

Last Saturday night at the Libro Centre, the Admirals battled the Essex 73’s to a 1-1 draw after the first period and the visitors had a slim 3-2 lead after 40 minutes.

While Essex scored first, Amherstburg defenceman Braeden Armstrong scored on the powerplay.

Armstrong, who also assisted on Layne Crispin’s beauty of a breakaway goal, leads all Admiral’s blueliners with 11 points including four goals. Against Essex, the hosts were 1-of-2 on the man advantage while the 73’s did not connect on their four powerplay situations.

Noticeable for the Admirals was their ability to kill off back-to-back penalties in the second period which Hunter said is something the team has been spending a lot of time on.

“I definitely think they worked hard but there were a lot of things that got exposed when you play a good team like that,” said Hunter.

Amherstburg had a tough time containing the 73’s top sniper, captain Gabriel Piccolo who netted the hat trick and added an assist along with Kale Couvillon who had three helpers. Both played for the Leamington Flyers who won the Junior B Sutherland Cup last year.

With a dozen games left in the regular PJHL season, the Admirals travel to Mooretown Saturday night and are back at the Libro Centre the next night for a 7 p.m. start against Dresden.

SLAPSHOTS… Amherstburg forward Stefan Jacobs saw his consistent point-streak come to an end at 13 games… Great pep talk from the U13 minor hockey team who were in the Admirals’ dressing room before Saturday’s game… Admirals goalie Josh Courtney, named Saturday’s third star of the game, made 35 saves against the 73’s.

Wolves senior girls volleyball team improves to 6-0 after pair of wins

By Ron Giofu The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team improved to 6-0 on the WECSSAA Tier 1 regular season but had one of their starters injured in the process.

Fresh off a 25-16, 25-13, 25-15 win on the road against the St. Anne Saints last Tuesday night, the Wolves returned home last Thursday evening for a pivotal match against L’Essor with the winning team claiming the division lead. North Star won the match, though lost their first set of the season, 23-25, 25-21 and 25-20.

The Wolves beat L’Essor despite losing a key player to injury as Lillian Mereszak left the floor late in the second set with a knee injury. It was the same knee she injured last year with a torn ACL causing her to miss all of last season.

North Star is already without Addison Prieur, who suffered a knee injury of her own a few months ago.

The Wolves already had to play players in different positions and Abby

North Star’s Lauren Essenpreis crouches to go after the ball (above) while Lily Mulder tips the ball last Thursday evening versus L’Essor (right).

Beaudoin was pressed into service after Mereszak’s injury.

“That is why practice is so important,” said assistant coach Mary Ewer.

Ewer praised the players for stepping up, noting Audrey Dib and Jerzie Rego had to step into new spots and help out.

“I’m very proud of them,” she said.

Mereszak didn’t play against St. Anne, Ewer noted, but other players stepped up and ensured the Wolves got the win.

“The veterans played hard,” she said.

“It’s a total team effort.”

Head coach Jeff Miller said they weren’t happy with how they came out against L’Essor, but they improved throughout the match.

“I didn’t think we played well in the first set,” said Miller. “We slowly started getting it back.”

Miller said they felt bad Mereszak got hurt, noting it is frustrating for an athlete if they have to miss any time.

“We have to keep plowing through it,” he said. “It’s been one heck of a year. We’ve had a lot of things thrown at us this year. It hasn’t been easy, that’s for sure.”

The junior Wolves dropped to 0-6, as they lost to St. Anne and L’Essor last week. In the St. Anne match, the juniors fell 25-16, 25-10 and 25-11 while they lost two nights later to L’Essor 25-17, 25-14 and 25-20.

The two teams played at St. Joseph Tuesday night after this issue of the RTT went to press. They host Villanova Thursday with the senior match being at 4 p.m. while the juniors follow at 5:20 p.m.

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 12

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Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 13

Community Calendar

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 519-551-3747 or e-mail kspirou@hotmail.ca.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 ALL-YOU-CAN EAT PASTA FUNDRAISER; Held at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157. Donations welcome to assist with renovations and building fund. Cost $15, choice of penne or spaghetti.

Meat or marinara sauce. Check out the bake sale!

Many desserts to choose from. Raffle tickets to be sold. Runs from 4-7 p.m.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 RIB/CHICKEN DINNER; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club hosting dinner at the River Canard K of C Hall, 8965 Malden Road.

Proceeds benefit their camp. Dinner includes ribs or chicken, baked potato, coleslaw, roll and dessert. Cost is $27. Doors open 6 p.m., dinner 7 p.m. Limited take-out available from 6-6:30 p.m.

Contact Marie Wilder 519-565-1252 or marie. wilder@icloud.com or Mary Ann Mertens 519988-6420 or tomarymertz@yahoo.ca.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 28 PASTA FUNDRAISER; The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. charity (supporting Father Donato Lwiyando’s good work in Bukavu, DR Congo Africa) is having a fundraiser meal on at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., Amherstburg. A 5:30 p.m. self-serve meal of pasta (sauce with or without meat), salad, bun, tea or coffee. Desserts available. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Bar open. Take-out available with ticket. Tickets $15 adult; $8 child (12 and under).

50/50 raffle; silent auction; book sale. For tickets: Larry Allen 519-817-3030; Sue Deslippe 226-280-5144; Kim Bornais 519-816-8154; Bev Bondy 519-736-4837.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 ESSEX COUNTY ONTARIO ANCESTORS EVENT; Essex County, Ontario Ancestors special event being held from as an in-person meet and greet from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the French Research Centre, 940 Prince Road, in Windsor. Free and FRIDAY, MARCH 1 open to everyone!

WILD GAME DINNER; Held as a fundraiser for Crime Stoppers Windsor-Essex County. Held at SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 Colasanti’s Tropical Garden, 1550 Road 3 East, DINNER/DANCE; The Good Neighbour Club in Ruthven. Buffet style, cash bar, raffles, silent invites you to their monthly dinner/dance at auction. Tickets $75 each, doors open at 5 p.m.

272 St. Paul St; Belle River. (Note the change to Appetizers include European pickerel soup, water third week this month only). Featuring D. J. Kim buffalo chili and salad/buns. Dinner features Owens (disco theme, no laser or strobe lights but elk stew, venison sausage, kangaroo stir fry, shimmering decor) with start time at 2:00pm with spicy water buffalo curry, bison stroganoff, wild Dinner at 5:30 p.m. Cost $17. All members and boar meatballs and spaghetti, ostrich casserole, non-members welcome. Bar is available. Reserve rabbit cacciatore, ocean perch, crocodile your tickets by Jan. 18 by calling 519-728-2138. bites, broasted chicken, vegetable medley and Paying in advance is appreciated. broasted potatoes. For tickets or information, visit www.catchcrooks.com.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 25 FEAST WITH FRIENDS TECH TALK; Presented ONGOING

by ACS at the Amherstburg Community Hub, 320 Richmond St., from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Discover ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG the magic of reading online. Tech Talk with MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and Essex County Library representative. Lunch and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community presentation $9. Call 519-736-5471 to reserve room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome. your seat.

For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@

gmail.com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775. MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg mental health and counselling services at The Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels House Youth Centre. Runs every Wednesday from assists those who are unable to shop for food and 2-6 p.m. Free for people between the ages of 12cook meals. Also available to those recovering 25. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. For from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and details, call 519-800-8640. affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and residents. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with lunch between 12-1 p.m.

Cost $7.50 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays details. and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.

GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at the a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

179 Richmond St. is offering social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are over ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at 160 members who have fun playing euchre, Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond pepper, bingo, cribbage, and bridge and St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call doing line dancing. We also have three special 519-736-5471 for assistance. luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service Visit www.goldenagecentre.ca to see how to volunteer hours are available for high school join, participate, and learn how we support our students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth community.

Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood.com.

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!

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate their empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg.

For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation).

Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:306:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome.

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders Club.” Donors help fund general operations fund of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name.

Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided.

For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

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

AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-7365471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Food Bank, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & much more. Please call to see how we can help!

Local Business Directory

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14 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

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

Love Mike, Kim, your grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Here’s to many more!

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Classifed Advertising Deadline in the River Town Times is Friday at 4:00 pm

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APARTMENT FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise.

Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.

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First and last required. Call (519) 736-1533

PRAYER

HOLY SPIRIT You who make me see everything and shows me the way to reach my ideals. You who gives me the divine gift to forgive and forget all that was done to me. You who are in all instances of my life with me. I want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with you and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory.

Thank you, Holy Spirit for wishes granted. (A person may pray this prayer three consecutive days without asking for their wishes, after the third day their wish will be granted no matter how difficult it may be and promise to publish this dialogue as soon as your favour has been granted).

L.G.B.

Joseph “Joe” Michael LaFerte

SUDOKU ANSWERS

Happy Birthday Mom! (Rose Meloche)

2-BEDROOM FOR RENT IN AMHERSTBURG, Very clean, 1100 sq. ft. lower duplex on Queen Street. One block from Detroit River, short walking-distance to town.

Carpet and ceramic-tile throughout. Open-concept kitchen with island, fridge and stove.

Laundryroom with washer and dryer. Central forced-air conditioning and highefficiency gas furnace.

No Smoking.

Private patio. $1,700 monthly plus utilities. First and last required.

Appointment only, call 519-736-4473 (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

Leave a detailed message.

APARTMENT FOR RENT

SCRAMBLE ANSWER SCRAMBLE ANSWER COOKER COOKER

PRAYER

DELINE’S SERVING NOVENA TO ST. JUDE AMHERSTBURG since May the Sacred Heart Of 1988. Call 519-736-2448. Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world, now and forever. O sacred RENOVATIONS Heart of Jesus pray for us.

Worker of Miracles, pray for & REPAIRS WITH OVER 30 YEARS us. St. Jude, Helper of the of renovation and Hopeless, pray for us. Say construction experience I this prayer 9 times a day. can ensure your project is By the 8th day, your prayer completed professionally, will be answered. It has correctly and with pride. never been known to fail, Locally owned & operated. never. Publications must be www.renovisions.ca Steve promised. Thanks St. Jude for prayer answered. - S.F 519-300-0961

August 10, 1971 - January 5, 2024

From Kamloops British Columbia passed away peacefully in Vancouver General Hospital after a brief illness with his loving wife Ursula and parents Pat and Sue by his side. Survived by brother Peter, sister Sarah (late Keith, 2020), many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family in Amherstburg, Michigan, New Hampshire, British Columbia and Holland.

SUDOKU ANSWERS

Wow! Look who is 90!

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B I RT H DAY S

Wednesday, January 17, 2024 – River Town Times – 15

www.rivertowntimes.com

Wolves boys hockey team gets first victory North Star girls on ice twice over past week

By Ron Giofu It took longer than they would have liked, but the North Star Wolves have their first win of the WECSSAA boys hockey season.

The Wolves beat the Brennan Cardinals 6-3 last Thursday afternoon at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. With the victory, the Wolves are now 1-3-1.

Kyle Jones, Steven Desantis, Ryken Atherton, Tiago Gonclaves, Graham Evans and Tyler Gignac scored for the Wolves. North Star scored twice in each of the three periods while Brennan managed one goal per period.

Gonclaves goal came shorthanded in the second period as he used his speed not only to get to the puck for the first

North Star’s Tiago Gonclaves (left) celebrates his second period shorthanded goal against the Brennan Cardinals last Thursday afternoon at the Libro Centre. The Wolves won their first game of the season, beating Brennan 6-3.

shot, but to then bury the puck on the rebound.

“It feels pretty good,” he said of the Wolves’ first victory. “We worked hard, pushed the forecheck and came together as a team.”

Gonclaves said he saw an opportunity and sped to the puck. He put a shot on goal and it went in for his team.

“Glennie loves the soft spots,” said Gonclaves, in reference to head coach Glen Holden’s desire to have the players move to the soft spots in the defensive zone coverage.

Holden was happy to finally break into the win column.

“The message before the game is we’re a better team than our record indicates,” said Holden.

The victory will make the Wolves feel better going forward, he believed, and noted it was pleasing to see the amount of goals they scored.

“We’ve struggled scoring goals,” said Holden. “To put up six is nice.”

This year’s Wolves hockey team is a young one and “it definitely raises our confidence getting the win.”

North Star has to tighten up in the defensive zone and eliminate the turnovers, Holden added, as those tend to get them into some trouble during games. He said Brennan’s third goal could have been “a back-breaker” for his team but the players recovered The Wolves travel to Windsor to play Lajeunesse Thursday (Jan. 18) and their next home game is against Riverside Jan. 23. Both games are at 3 p.m.

By Ron Giofu The North Star Wolves returned from the Christmas holidays with a game against a good Sandwich team and held their own.

The Wolves hosted the Sabres last Wednesday afternoon at the Libro Centre and the scorekeeper had very little work to do, as the game ended in a 0-0 tie.

“It was fun,” said North Star winger Lorelei Gatti. “They have strong players on the other team. I’d say (the game) was pretty good.”

Winger Rayah Crawford added her belief the Wolves played well against Sandwich.

“We held our own. The forwards helped the defense,” said Crawford.

Crawford added they have to improve their offense and get to the net for rebounds. The Wolves also have to take more time with the puck and pass the puck more.

“We’ve got to take longer strides and get to the net,” stated Gatti.

North Star coach Dan Pettypiece said he and the other coaches were pleased how they played against the Sabres.

“That was a great game. We were very pleased with them despite not having any goals,” said Pettypiece. “You’d like to see some more goals. We tried to create offense. We took time and space away from them in our end. We created some mistakes but we can’t seem to finish the deal.”

Pettypiece said the coaches have seen steady improvement in the Wolves as this season progresses. He cited the recent

Cardinal Carter Classic tournament in mid-December as an example, stating while they didn’t win a game, they played well but the results didn’t show up in the standings. The third of three games saw the Wolves create a number of chances against St. Joseph and while Pettypiece said they outplayed them, the Lasers got a goal while the Wolves couldn’t and St. Joseph won 1-0.

One of the messages to the girls is to constantly try to get better every game.

“No one is going to play a perfect game, ever,” he said.

The Wolves were back in action Monday afternoon at home against the Kingsville Cavaliers.

North Star dropped to 1-3-2 on the WECSSAA A/AA season after losing 3-1.

June Buchner scored for Noth Star.

North Star played in Essex yesterday afternoon after this issue went to press.

Those two teams meet again next Monday in Amherstburg at 3:30 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 3:30 p.m., also at the Libro Centre. The Wolves play in Kingsville at 3 p.m. Jan. 23.

Madison Drouillard (9) and Hanna Coulson (7) of the North Star Wolves crash the Sandwich net looking for a scoring chance last Wednesday.

The two teams battled to a 0-0 tie.

of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, you must make a written request to the Town at the address below. The hearing will be available for viewing by livestream by visiting www.amherstburg.ca.

CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AMHERSTBURG NOTICE OF STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING TO CONSIDER A ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT STATUTORY PUBLIC MEETING: TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Amherstburg will hold a public meeting on Monday, February 12, 2024 commencing at 4:00 p.m. in the Town of Amherstburg Council Chambers, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, Ontario. The purpose of this meeting is to consider a proposed amendment to the Town of Amherstburg Zoning By-law 1999-52, under Section 34 of the Planning Act.

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

To subscribe to Council & Committee Agendas, visit Amherstburg.ca/calendar and click SUBSCRIBE. DATED at the Town of Amherstburg this 17th day of January, 2024.

KEY MAP

ANY PERSON who wishes to attend and address Council by electronic means, must register with the Clerk’s Office no later than Thursday, February 8, 2024. To register for electronic participation please email the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca . Once you register, you will be given information on how to make your submission at the electronic meeting by electronic participation. To participate, you will need access to a computer or tablet with internet service or a telephone.

ANY PERSON who wishes watch http://video.islive.ca/amherstburg/live.html

the

meeting

proceedings

only,

please

visit

THE SUBJECT LANDS AND PURPOSE OF THIS ZONING BY-LAW AMENDMENT: This amendment affects lands abutting the Detroit River Shoreline except the lands known as Bois Blanc (Boblo) Island (see map below).

The purpose of the housekeeping amendment is to update an outdated portion of the General Provisions by reducing the setback requirements for accessory structures located on properties abutting the Detroit River Shoreline.

This amendment, if approved, will amend the existing General Provisions for Setback from the Detroit River Shoreline (Section 3(26)(d)) to provide exemption from the setbacks for accessory structures required by Subsections 3(26)(d)(i) and (ii) when the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) provides written confirmation that an ERCA permit is not required for the accessory structure.

The zoning by-law amendment does not impact or change the site-specific provisions found in Section 3(26)(d)(iii) of Zoning By-law 1999-52, as amended. Also, according to Section 1(16) NonConforming Building Location provisions of the Zoning By-law, all structures that comply with said provision, existing on or before January 1, 2006, are exempt from the proposed amendment.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ANY PERSON may make written representation in support of or in opposition to the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment by email to the Clerk’s office at clerk@amherstburg.ca or in person by appointment for drop-off at the Libro Centre located at 3295 Meloche Road. Comments must be submitted by Thursday, February 8, 2024 before the meeting and will be read aloud prior to the application being heard by Council.

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

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

Further information relating to the proposed Zoning By-law (File# ZBA/03/24) Amendment is available for inspection by calling or emailing the Planning Department Office during normal office hours, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The proposed Zoning By-law Amendment is also available for review on the Town of Amherstburg Website: www.amherstburg.ca. If you wish to be notified of the passage

Christopher Aspila, Manager, Planning Services Town of Amherstburg, Libro Centre 3295 Meloche Road, Amherstburg, Ontario N9V 2Y8 Telephone: (519) 736-5408, Fax No. (519) 736-9859, Website: www.amherstburg.ca Information will be gathered in accordance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA). All comments and communications received will become part of the public record unless you expressly request the Town to remove it. If you want to learn more about why and how the Town collects your information, write to the Town Clerk's Office, 271 Sandwich Street South, Amherstburg, ON N9V 2A5 or call 519-736-0012.

16 – River Town Times – Wednesday, January 17, 2024

www.rivertowntimes.com

Join us on social!

AmherstburgTownHall Aburg_TownHall Wed

JANUARY

21

amherstburg.ca/ beactive Sunday “Fun-day” Turf Tots on The Indoor Turf 9-11AM FREE Senior Public Skating 6-6:50PM $4/person

Sun

28

22

January is Crime Stoppers Awareness Month

Tues

27 24 Thurs 26 Sat 25 Fri M FRE P Amherstburg 0 Accessibility Advisory Amherstburg Town of Committee welcomes back Amherstburg Meeting 5PM TRUE FEST! Town Hall Nuclear SATURDAY Emergency Siren NIGHT Testing 12PM White Goods 6-10PM. Public, Youth & Pickup Beginner Skate 519-736-3664 Recycle Cancelled

23 Wed

Complete the Accessibility Survey today talktheburg.ca

3 Tues 30 Wed 31 Thurs 2 Sat 1 Fri Beginner Skating EWSWA.org Parks and 11:30-12:20PM Recycle Coach Summer Student 2024 Dog Tags Recreation Youth Skating available online App 4-4:50PM Advisory Lottery Job LEARN MORE Receive $4/person or Committee notifications for Opportunities about New $12/family(max 5) Regular Council Special Meeting all collections.

Rens Pets Promo Adult Drop-In Download on 5PM Hockey Meeting 6PM amherstburg.ca/ apple or google amherstburg.ca/ 8-9:50PM Town Hall doglicensing Town Hall play careers $5/person Public Skating 12:30-2:20PM Cancelled

Mon 29 Special Council Meeting – Planning 5PM

Ballroom Dance Libro Centre Community Room

In a partnership with River Town Dance Academy, this progressive-style ballroom course will introduce students to the different styles of ballroom, such as Salsa, Waltz, Cha-Cha, and more. No partner necessary.

Join our disco dance party!

SATURDAY, JANUARY 27 · 6PM - 10PM DOWNTOWN AMHERSTBURG Expert Instructor from River Town Dance Academy

E

Every Sunday

Mon

Budget Deliberations 9-4 pm Town Hall (If Needed)

Thurs 18 Fri 19 Sat 20 Beginner Skating Economic Walking Track @ 11:30-12:20PM Development The Libro Centre Public Skating 12:30-2:20PM Advisory Youth Skating Committee 4-4:50PM Meeting 5PM $4/person or $12/family(max 5) Town Hall Closed 2-4pm Adult Drop-In Today Hockey 8-9:50PM $5/person

6-1

Sun

17

SORED B ON Y SP

Ages 18+ $65.04 + tax/person Seniors Receive 10% Off

Fridays 6:15 pm- 7:15 pm January 19 - February 23

Learn more on our website visitamherstburg.ca/true

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amherstburg.ca/recreation

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