River Town Times - November 29, 2023

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Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Santa comes to town!

Santa & Mrs. Claus turn off of Richmond St. and onto Dalhousie St. during last Saturday night’s Santa Claus Parade. It was presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation.

For more, turn to Page 13.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Community rallies after family loses home in fire

By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg community came together quickly after a local family lost their home due to fire.

A house fire on Elmstead Lane resulted in the loss of the Bradt family home last Friday.

The devastating fire resulted in a total loss for the family, but also saw the community step up quickly to try and help.

As of press time, a GoFundMe

page entitled “The Bradt Family in Amherstburg” had raised nearly $60,000 for the family.

The GoFundMe page was started by Faith Fox, whose brother and family were the ones impacted by the fire.

“The support has been absolutely incredible. There is no better town to live in than ours when devastation hits. The community has rallied and provided them with everything from toothbrushes to winter gear, clothing, Jammies, Christmas gifts,

and monetary donations,” said Fox. Fox indicated her brother and his family are still trying to come to grips with the situation.

“They are still having a hard time processing that this is reality, and that their lives will forever be changed.

To lay your head down at night, in a family member’s home, and know you have nothing but the clothes you took off from the workday is unimaginable,” she said.

The fire has had an impact on Fox

as well.

“As his twin, standing watching him stare at everything he has worked so hard for, go up in flames and know there is nothing he can do to stop it gives a heartache that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy,” she said.

Fox added her brother’s family are generous so that is why they are seeing the generosity returned to them in their time of need.

Continued on Page 18

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2 – River Town Times – Wednesday, November 29, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Boblo Island residents bring frustrations over ferry to town council

By Ron Giofu Boblo Island residents packed the Amherstburg council chambers Monday night, most if not all frustrated after the recent two-week ferry outage.

Residents questioned not only the reliability of the main ferry – the Ste. Claire but as well the status of the back-up ferry. There were questions over certification, ability of emergency service to reach the island and how to deal with the issue going forward.

Three delegates appeared before council Monday night but before they spoke, CAO Valerie Critchley said the town has worked with its solicitor on the matter and has sent island officials a letter regarding ferry certifications and amendments to the town’s emergency plan and, as of Monday night, not received a response to.

Island resident J. David Green said ferry crews have shown “exemplary service” but had questions regarding the two ferries, their condition and emergency provisions.

“We’re looking for council to provide oversight and corrective action,” said Green. “If there is no oversight, there is no recourse.”

Green outlined repair work the ferries have undergone, adding wear and tear that has occurred over the years from construction traffic. He also questioned if there were simulations or field exercises that are being undertaken regarding potential emergency situations and called for such simulations to take place.

Other asks by Green included the town issuing an operating license for each ferry, repairs and certification of the back-up ferry and the establishment of “critical path project management” for a new ferry and docking.

“We’re coming to you to do something,” Green told council members. “We’re looking for Amico to have oversight.”

Fire chief Bruce Montone said they can have simulations and that he can bring forth a proposal regarding existing costs and what that looks like. He said they were able to get OCWA and Ministry of Environment officials over to the island during the Oct. 27-Nov. 10

ferry outage for water testing. The town could have used the back-up ferry if fire crews needed to, he stated, but failing that, they could have used a 22-foot vessel of their own to get to the island.

Eric Farron said everyone deserves the safety and municipal services they pay for.

“We have a ferry problem,” said Farron.

Farron asked what would happen if there was a 911 call and said there are fellow residents that are worried about the situation.

“There are people who are pretty frightened and deservedly so,” said Farron. “Safety is involved. It’s a big deal. We’ve got a big liability over there. Period.”

Calling for a resident ferry committee, Farron acknowledged it is a “complex problem” but wanted to work with the developer and town officials towards solving it.

“We’re looking for the right way,” he said.

Farron added “this isn’t a time for a band-aid and good press. It’s a time to say it’s broken and let’s fix it.”

Councillor Don McArthur asked what measures are being taken by residents on the issue. He wondered what collective effort is being made to make sure they are getting the service they are paying for.

Farron said 76 per cent of island residents surveyed want a separate entity to represent their interests with regards to the ferry service and they are in the process of developing that.

“If any stakeholders lose, we all lose,” he said.

Councillor Linden Crain asked if Farron had a reaction to Critchley’s words at the start of the meeting, with Farron adding he was encouraged to hear them but there is still a trust issue involved.

Councillor Peter Courtney said the town has a development agreement with the developer and asked how homeowners are interacting with the developer to get “bang for their bucks” regarding ferry service. He said “everyone has skin in the game” but believed there are issues such as delayed response when someone chooses to live on an island. He said he accepts risk by living where he does in the former Malden Township due to

its distance from emergency services and wondered if island residents could accept that as well.

Farron noted they are not asking the town for money, and responded to Courtney’s comments by stating there are issues like inclement weather they do accept but the issue was the reliability of the service.

Kenneth Morrison and Loris Boschin from the Bois Blanc Community Association (BBCA) also appeared before town council. Morrison said they received “mixed messages” with regards to emergency services, adding there was no propane delivery during that time, no garbage collection and a hydro outage.

The BBCA is requesting the town to revisit its agreement with the Amico-owned Amherstburg Ferry Company pertaining to the AFC being the sole entity responsible for transportation services between Boblo and the mainland for residents as well as emergency services. They also asked the town to take over the ferry service in a timely fashion “to ensure a safe and reliable transportation service for its residents and emergency personnel.”

McArthur asked by whose authority Morrison and Boschin were making the request, stating council has been told the developer has a majority of shares in the BBCA. He questioned if the developer is asking the town to take over the ferry and Boschin said they are speaking for the residents and not the developer.

“We, as the residents and representatives of the residents, are asking for this,” said Boschin, though he a\ later noted the developer was in favour of them making the presentation.

Councillor Diane Pouget said they have received e-mails that the association is not speaking on behalf of the residents. Pouget said it is “very, very clear that it is the developer’s duty to provide the necessary means to cross over and provide services like emergency services and garbage collection.

“We cannot and should not take over operation of the ferry,” said Pouget. “We have read every single agreement with the developer and the Town of Amherstburg and that was never, ever agreed to.”

Continued on Page 4

A Message of Thanks from the Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Branch 157 A Message of Thanks from Fort Malden Branch 157 of the Royal Canadian Legion…

As the 2023 Legion Poppy Campaign and Remembrance Day Ceremonies across the country have come to a close, and we are busy preparing for the upcoming winter season, we would like to take this opportunity to express our most sincere thanks to everyone involved for your commitment to this 100-year old annual campaign in support of our Veterans.

We wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our Legion members & volunteers, the local businesses, schools, the Town of Amherstburg, and everyone who gave of their time and energy to assist with the 2023 Poppy Campaign and Remembrance Day Parade & memorial service.

Whether you were directly involved in the planning stages, assisted with poppy distribution, joined us for our November 11th parade, kept a poppy distribution box at your place of business, or made a generous donation through our Branch to the Poppy fund, your support and dedication have not gone unnoticed. The simple act of wearing a Poppy on your lapel, the symbol of Remembrance, ensures that Canadians of all ages are committed to remembering the great sacrifices that have been made for the freedoms we enjoy today.

As a result of your selfless contributions, our Branch was able to raise approximately $ 28,000.00 for our Poppy Fund. Your annual commitment and support to this campaign is crucial to the well-being of our deserving Veterans in need within our community. Your help is deeply appreciated, and you should feel proud knowing that you were a part of making a difference!

Lest We Forget Ernie Gazdig CD Tim Girard Shawn Wilkie Br. 157 President Parade Marshall Br. 157 Poppy Chair

THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION FORT MALDEN BRANCH 157 would like to extend a special thank you to the following individuals, organizations, and local businesses, for their participation, and tireless support of our Poppy Campaign. Thank you to those who participated in our Remembrance Day parade and service:

•Fort Malden Animal Hospital •Fighting Island Boxing Club •Fort Malden Animal Hospital •Fort Malden National Historic Site (PARKS CANADA) •Hogarth, Hermistons, Severs, LLP •Gibb Insurance Brokers •202nd Fort Malden RCACC (Cadet Corp) •Jan Martlin •Gilligan’s Fire Grill •John Crozier •Fredrick “Fritz” Renaud (WWII) – •G & L Heritage Brewing Company •Knights of Columbus St. Clement Council #2844 •Hammer Head Marine Chad/Jamie/Jim Renaud •Fort Malden Golden Age Centre •Labatt Brewing Co. •Health First Pharmacy •G & S Equipment Rentals – Scott Deslippe •Lena Lazanja •Hogarth, Hermistons, Severs, LLP •Hamilton Insurance – Amherstburg •Molson Coors Beverage Co. •James H. Sutton Funeral Home •James & Robert Girard – Tim Girard •Naples Pizza •Joe Meloche Ford •James H. Sutton Funeral Home - Arbor Memorial •Nancy Brown •Knights of Columbus St. Clement Council 2844 Mayor Michael Prue, Deputy Mayor Chris •James White – J.P. White •Nancy Paisley •Knights of Columbus Fr. Bernard Gibb, Esteemed Councillors, Town of Amherstburg •Jenna Bondy •Paglioni Estate Winery O’Donnell Council 2110 Steven Hanratty, Representative from office of •John McLellan •Pelee Island Winery •LA Hair Styles •Kenneth Miller – Shawn Wilkie •La Rocca Family Restaurant & Bar Chris Lewis, MP •Susan Cristofaro Armand Anderson, Representative from office •3rd Degree Knights of Columbus Father •Thrasher Sales & Leasing •LCBO of Anthony Leardi, MPP Bernard O’Donell Council 2110 •Lee J Nails •UNIFOR Canada Local 1959 •4th Degree Knights of Columbus Father •Libro Credit Union Tim Girard, Branch 157 Sgt-at-Arms & •Vin Winery Parade Marshall Louis Boue Assembly 2355 •Walt Stewart •Little Buddies Preschool Centre Fort Malden Branch 157 Colour Party & •LIBRO Credit Union – Amherstburg •Lord Amherst Pub Colour Guard •Marvin Gibb – Marvin Gibb A special note of thanks goes out to our •Lynn’s Variety •MUNICIPAL Town of Amherstburg Branch 157 Legionnaires & Dignitaries local schools & all of the Amherstburg •Malden Central Public School •Michael & Shirley Prue Branch 157 Ladies Auxiliary businesses for their assistance with our •Mark’s Work Warehouse •Nor-Built Construction HMCS Hunter Poppy distribution during the campaign. •McGregor Medical Pharmacy Canadian Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Association •PROVINCIAL Government of Ontario Thank you to all who assisted our •Meal Time Express Rev. Lisa Poultney – Christ Church (Honourable MPP ANTHONY LEARDI) Poppy campaign efforts by displaying •Movati Athletic Capt. Jeff Turner & 202nd Fort Malden •River Town Times – Ron Giofu & Laura D’Allessandro poppy boxes, creating artwork, and •Naples Pizza RCACC Cadets, Staff & Volunteers •Rob & Tina’s No Frills – Amherstburg collecting donations for Branch 157.

•North Star High School Essex-Windsor EMS •Rotary Club of Amherstburg Your dedication and annual support •Pet Value Canadian Coast Guard – Amherstburg •Robert Isaac Fryer – Laurie Fryer Cavanaugh) is unmatched and appreciated by •Queensmen Motorcycle Club Amherstburg Fire Dept.

•Romano’s Specialty Meats & Italian Deli •Racicot Chrysler everyone!

Windsor Police Services & Amherstburg Detachment •Russell & Orville Fox – Pat Fox & the Fox family •A.M.A. Sportsmens Association •RBC Royal Bank Provincial Marine Amherstburg •Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Branch 157 •Amherstburg Chevrolet, Buick, GMC •Romano’s Specialty Meats & Italian Deli Fort Malden National Historic Site •Registered Nurses Association of Ontario •Amherstburg Community Services •Rosa’s Italian Restaurant Sarah Parks Horsemanship – Carolyn Davies •Amherstburg Family Health Team •Saint-Jean-Baptiste Catholic Elementary School Steve Brown •Shooter’s Roadhouse – Matt & Shelly Kelly •Amherstburg Public School •Scotia Bank K of C Council 2110 •Sutton Creek Golf Club •Seasons Retirement Community •Amherstburg Town Hall K of C Fr. Louis Boue Assembly 2355 •Sgt. Donald Elvy (WWII) – Mary Ewer & family •Anderdon Public School •Service Ontario Ron Giofu, River Town Times •The Hearing & Dizziness Clinic •Simcoe Variety •Armandos (Dr. Bernice McKenzie Audiology) •Sobey’s •Artisan Grill THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION FORT •The Verdi Club – Joseph Capaldi •Society of St. Vincent de Paul •Baker Busch MALDEN BRANCH 157 would like •Thistle Masonic Lodge #34 •Speck’s Restaurant •BMO Bank of Montreal to extend a special thank you to the •The Panetteria – Anna Marano & Simon Briggs •Bob’s Leather & Boot & Shoe Repair •St. Joseph’s Catholic Elementary School following individuals, organizations, •Tino’s Auto Service •Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School •Burger 67 •Subway and local businesses, who purchased •UNIFOR Canada Local 1959 •C & E Lawn & Yard Services Remembrance Day wreaths. Your •Walter Bebbington Sr. – Larry Bertrand •Super Green Variety •Caffeine & Co. contributions provide greatly needed •Waterfront Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt •Super Plus Convenience •Canada Post support to our Veterans and their •Wigle Home Hardware Building Centre •Canadian Tire & Canadian Tire Gas Bar •TD Canada Trust dependents: •Windsor Police – Amherstburg detachment •Carols Unisex Hair Salon •The Barber Shop •A.M.A. Sportsmens Association – Staff Sgt Brian Caffarena •The Beer Store •CIBC •Amherstburg Community Services – Kathy DiBartolomeo •The Libro Centre •Circle K •Amherstburg Fire – Chief Montone We sincerely appreciate the many •The Panetteria •Connie’s Variety •Arthur Lee – Marian Wilkie members, businesses, organizations •The Source •Co-Operators •Thistle Masonic Lodge #34 •Bob’s Leather Boot & Shoe Repair – Bob Morency & individuals, who provided in-kind •Diageo Canada Inc. •Tim Hortons •BMO Bank of Montreal donations and those who gave generous •Dollars & Cents Investments •Branch 157 Ladies Auxiliary donations towards our Poppy Fund and •Downtown Espresso Cafe •Thrasher Sales & Leasing •Canadian Coast Guard – Amherstburg Building Fund: •UNIFOR Canada Local 1959 •Dr. Coates •Canadian Vietnam Veterans Memorial •Amherstburg Chevrolet, Buick, GMC •Ure’s Country Kitchen •Dr. Lan Association – George Sesto & Thomas Miller •A.M.A. Sportsmens Association •WFCU •Dr. Rob •Canadian Tire Amherstburg •Bob’s Leather Boot & Shoe Repair – Bob Morency •Duby’s Home Centre •Wigle Home Hardware •CKBG 107.9 “The ‘Burg” •C & E Lawn & Yard Services •Windsor Police – Amherstburg Detachment •Dylans Variety •Donald McArthur •Canadian Tire Amherstburg •Windsor Police Association •Families First Funeral Home •Doug, Hugh, & Mac Reynolds – Fred Bertrand •Carl Keane •Wolfhead Distillery & Restaurant •First Choice Haircutters •FEDERAL Government of Canada •Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards •Flow Café & Bikes (Honourable MP CHRIS LEWIS) •Dempster’s Bread •Flowers by Anna

The success of the 2023 Poppy Campaign and Remembrance Day service would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our wonderful Executive officers, Cadets, staff, and generous volunteers. Fort Malden Branch 157 extends a heartfelt thank you to the following individuals: •202nd Fort Malden RCACC – Cadets, Staff & Volunteers •ALL Branch 157 Kitchen Staff & Volunteers •ALL Parade Route Assistants •Allan & Margaret Carroll •Bev & Annette Knight •Branch 157 Bar Stewards •Branch 157 Flag Party & Colour Guard •Branch 157 Ladies Auxiliary •Carol Godbout •Dan Bebbington •Dave Tales •Ernie & Laura Gazdig •Frank DiPasquale •Gail Duby •George Briand •Gord Ciphery •Irene & Richard Nadon •James Vermeulen •Jan Martlin •Jeff & Amber Turner •Jenna Bondy •Jim Cyrowski •Jo-Anne Waldron •John White •Kathy Hanes •Larry Bertrand •Laura Lucier & Ian Spanswick •Laurie Cavanaugh •Lena Lazanja •Marcel Pare •Mark Girard •Marshall White •Morgan Ouimette •Reg Major •Rita & Jim Jarriet •River Town Times – Ron Giofu & Laura D’Alessandro •Roger Mayville •Ron Duby •Shawn & Terri Wilkie •Tim Girard •Tom Miller •Town of Amherstburg •Trish Ford •Wayne Wilson *Fort Malden Branch 157 apologizes in advance for any oversight in the names listed at the time of publication. Please know that we sincerely appreciate all assistance and donations. We will remember them.

281 DALHOUSIE ST, AMHERSTBURG N9V 1X1 • LEGION PHONE • 519-736-4485 • RCLBRANCH157@COGECO.NET

Wednesday, November 29, 2023 – River Town Times – 3

www.rivertowntimes.com

Park House Museum holds AGM, open all year for first time in a decade

By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Historic Sites Association (AHSA) held its annual general meeting last week with encouraging news about the historic site is operates.

The AHSA is the board that oversees the Park House Museum with the Dalhousie St. historic site reporting an uptick in visitors in 2023.

The museum opened year-round for the first time in ten years, reported curator Stephanie Pouget-Papak, adding there was “a resounding positive response” to the move. She said there was “much visitation and sold out events in January and February.”

As of Nov. 1, Pouget-Papak stated the Park House had 1,475 paid admissions or memberships, ten field trips which included 231 students and 35 chaperones, 148 paid participants at events or workshops, 5,166 in the museum’s gift shop, 3,607 for free admission, 792 in the Pensioner’s Cottage, and 2,668 at events.

“Thus far, we were open for 248 days and 1360.5 operating hours,” she stated.

“In addition, we have had 30 special events (23 on-site and seven off-site).”

The Park House Museum surpassed its 2022 visitation Sept. 15.

“They are starting to come back,” she told board members and guests at last Tuesday night’s AGM. The Park House’s tinsmiths have been “non-stop” this season, Pouget-Papak reports, with their artisan goods in demand. The museum hosted a successful tin class, she added.

“Our tinsmiths are dedicated

Park House Museum curator Stephanie Pouget-Papak goes over a presentation at the museum’s annual general meeting (AGM) last Tuesday night. Pouget-Papak discussed the history of the community museum and how 2023 is going to this point.

volunteers, who create beautiful works of art, and a revenue stream for our museum’s preservation, conservation and programming,” she said. “Volunteers are the heart and soul of our organization.

We couldn’t do it without them.”

The Park House was awarded seven positions through the Canada Summer Jobs program, she added, and one through the Summer Experience program.

Students were trained and encouraged to create a mentorship system with the experienced students training the new students. Pouget-Papak said staff ranges in age from 15-25.

“We received glowing compliments from visitors regarding their guided tour experience,” said Pouget-Papak.

Other work performed by the students include facilitating field trips, preparing for programming, scanning nearly 2,500 genealogy files, and helping to convert the museum’s files to digital.

Pouget-Papak said they have worked at digitizing files for about three years

A.A.M. GOODFELLOWS

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and estimated another ten years is necessary before the project is complete.

There have been 30 events at the Park House Museum, she noted, with 36 to be held before the end of the season.

Some have been away from the museum itself, including a recent graveyard tour and a talk at Amherstburg Community Services. Other events have included teas, cooking classes, barbecues and the Music off the Back Porch series.

Paranormal investigations and ghost tours have also proven to be popular, she added, noting there was a waiting

list for people to attend the paranormal investigations.

The Park House also worked with the Ska:Na Family Learning Centre to create an Indigenous exhibit and programming, Pouget-Papak indicated.

“Basic maintenance and a conservation schedule continued at the museum throughout 2023,” she said. “In March and April, we had the floors refinished.

Some minor and temporary repairs were made to the roof.”

Pouget-Papak also outlined the roughly 250-year history of the museum, from its time near Fort Detroit to its eventual move to Amherstburg, the original British ownership of Leith, Shepherd and Duff, its eventual ownership and occupation by the Park family to its use as an antique store and apartments and finally its move to its current site where it has been operating for approximately 50 years as a community museum. It is now a place of national historical significance.

“We’re only as successful as the support allows,” said Pouget-Papak.

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

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4 – River Town Times – Wednesday, November 29, 2023

www.rivertowntimes.com

Boblo residents come to council with car ferry concerns

Continued from Page 2

Pouget said she would never vote for the town to take over operation of the ferry.

McArthur asked what measures the association took with the developer and the ferry company “to take them to task” when the ferry went down. Boschin said they need to work “with the one method” that takes a person to the island and they’ve asked a lot of questions.

“If the one service that is being provided to get you to and from your home isn’t providing that service, what other option

do you think do you think we have as residents?” asked Boschin.

McArthur pressed if letters and e-mails were sent and Boschin said they have used many methods and are “keeping their options open.” McArthur asked why the association approached the town and not the province, who operates five ferries including the Pelee Island ferry.

Morrison said they they wanted to talk to the town first and other options for service “are definitely on the list.”

McArthur said the town doesn’t own ferries or a ferry dock and wondered if

the developer has reached out to the town directly about taking over the service.

Critchley said they have not had such discussions. He had it confirmed by the CAO that all the guiding documents show the developer is responsible for the ferries and legal advice backs that up.

Courtney added the town will hold parties accountable and is ensuring the town’s end of the agreement is being fulfilled. He added if he was paying for a service that isn’t being provided, he would call a meeting and do what had to be done. People are “on high alert,” he

added, and told the BBCA “there has to be something more on your end, I believe.”

There has to be two working ferries and hoped all parties can “figure out something that is fair.”

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, who chaired Monday night’s meeting in the absence of Mayor Michael Prue, said the town has an agreement with Amico that the developer is going to provide “reasonable municipal access and access to police, fire and emergency services.”

“At this point, I would have to say this is as far as I would go,” he said.

Entertainment during TRUE Festival questioned by some council members

By Ron Giofu The TRUE Festival is coming back to Amherstburg Jan. 27, 2024 but entertainment choices were questioned by some members of town council.

The latest round of special event approvals included the upcoming TRUE Festival, but the use of drag queens as entertainment were the topic of concern for at least some on council.

Councillor Peter Courtney said he was fine with the event overall, but wondered what would happen if drag queens were not part of it. He said the festival originated through grant funding but is now funded through the municipality, with confirmation from director of parks, recreation, tourism and culture Heidi Baillargeon.

The TRUE Festival is the only one that has become controversial to some, he said, adding that he raised it because it is his job.

“We’re running this as an inclusive winter dance party on the downtown

streets of Amherstburg of Dalhousie, Richmond and Murray. Awesome,” said Courtney. “It’s followed up from 6-10 p.m there will be dancing. Great.

There will be a DJ, great.”

The issue of drag queens is something some people take offense to and don’t believe it is family-friendly, said Courtney.

“The bottom line, it seems like it is on the risque side to entertainment,” he said.

Courtney asking what the benefit of having drag queens versus not having them. He added some people won’t attend the festival because they don’t feel it is proper.

“Do we need drag queens to be part of the TRUE Fest for its enjoyment of the whole community?” he asked, and whether other forms of entertainment could be offered instead.

“It’s a form of entertainment. It is vetted by the tourism staff so the performers that perform are familyfriendly,” said CAO Valerie Critchley.

Critchley added she attended last year’s festival and didn’t find it provocative in any way and believed it was in good taste.

“It’s a diverse form of entertainment and that is what the festival is representing,” she said. “We do feel it’s an important part of the festival.”

Councillor Diane Pouget said she “received numerous, numerous phone calls and e-mails” about drag queens.

She said she was opposed to it.

“They were very angry and upset about it,” said Pouget. “Council never once agreed to spend taxpayers’ money on drag queens and advertise it as a family affair. People found it very offensive.”

Councillor Don McArthur said he supports the event, stating he brought his daughter the first year and it was “beautiful out in the snow” the first year.

In the second year, and “talk about a snowball running down a hill” with “Amherstburg a beacon of light” with

the same vibe in the summer. Buses came in from Windsor for the festival, he added, and brought money into town.

McArthur added he supports the rainbow crosswalk outside North Star High School, with Councillor Linden Crain adding he helped bring that to Amherstburg with donations helping to pay for it. There is “overwhelming support” for the TRUE Festival and believed there will always be those against whatever the town presents.

If people don’t approve of drag queens, “they don’t have to attend those types of events,” Crain added.

Courtney added “there are a million forms of entertainment” that are not controversial. He said he did support the rainbow crosswalk as well.

“I believe in an open, inclusive, loving Amherstburg and if you’re going to talk the talk, you have to walk the walk,” added Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb. “Amherstburg needs more love so I’m going to be in support of this.”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Belle Vue should be in private hands, says reader As negotiations are ongoing with a group that wants the Belle Vue property for free, to restore it and develop the property, I want to remind you that we paid $1.1 million for it.

We were told it could be the guild inn. I encourage readers to Google “Guildwood Village community association, dec19/22” or “change.org fix the

broken promises at historic guild park and gardens.

It sounds very similar to what could happen here.

Belle Vue should be in private hands.

Imagine what council could do with $1.1 million.

—Kurt Reffle

Santa Claus parade appreciated Recently, I attended the one hour and ten minute Santa Claus Parade.

I witnessed how well Amherstburg supports their community. Now I can appreciate how other communities call it “beautiful Amherstburg.”

The people of this fine town have been so kind when I visited and not

to mention courteous.

I highlight the word courteous because I grew up in such a community and have missed that for many years now.

—Al Patterson Amherstburg

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

Ron Giofu

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Wednesday, November 29, 2023 – River Town Times – 5

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Simko-Hatfield returns to GECDSB chair, LeClair to head committee

By Ron Giofu The Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) has its chair and vice chair for the coming year.

Trustee Gale Simko-Hatfield, who represents Windsor Wards 5, 6, 7 and 8, will once again lead the board as its chair. She edged trustee Kim McKinley, who represents Windsor Wards 1, 2 and 9, for the position.

After two deadlocked votes, McKinley and SimkoHatfield had their names put into a hat and SimkoHatfield’s name was drawn.

Simko-Hatfield was nominated by Amherstburg/ LaSalle trustee Ron LeClair while McKinley self-nominated.

Trustee Christie Nelson, from Windsor Wards 3, 4 & 10, was elected vice chair of the GECDSB. She was up against Connie Buckler, the Tecumseh/Lakeshore trustee for the position.

Nelson nominated herself for the vice chair’s position while Windsor Ward 5, 6, 7, 8 trustee Cathy Cooke – herself a former vice chair – nominated Buckler.

Elections for the board’s executive positions were held last Tuesday night at the GECDSB’s annual

SCREENSHOT

Gale Simko-Hatfield (centre) returns as chair of the Greater Essex County District School Board with Christie Nelson (right) elected as vice chair. Director of education Vicki Houston is at left.

organizational meeting.

“Students are and should be at the centre of everything we do as a school board,” Simko-Hatfield stated in remarks to her colleagues, “and as caring, thoughtful individuals, trustees, along with senior administration have great potential for meeting whatever challenges that come before us.”

Simko-Hatfield added: “It is re-assuring to know

Multiple accidents investigated by police

Wish your staff, customers and community the best of the holiday season!

Contact Laura at 519-736-4175 or sales@rivertowntimes.com for information on how to publish your Christmas greeting in our Dec. 20 issue!

A trio of accidents were investigated last week by the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment.

Two separate crashes were reported Nov. 21.

The first was a two-car collision where the driver of vehicle one was headed east on Alma St. and allegedly turned onto Victoria St. and struck vehicle two. Police say the driver of vehicle one was issued a provincial offense notice (PON) for turn not in safety. There were no

serious injuries.

The second accident that occurred Nov. 21 was a single car crash where the driver is accused of failing to stop at the stop sign at Alma St. and Concession 5 North.

Police say the vehicle landed in the ditch and the driver was issued a PON for careless driving. There were no serious injuries in that crash either.

The third accident was last Thursday (Nov. 23) where a vehicle driver is accused of backing out of a driveway and striking a cyclist.

There were no serious injuries, police add, and the driver was charged with failing to yield to a pedestrian. It occurred in the area of Fryer St. and Richmond St. —All information courtesy of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment

Memories of Yesterday...

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

my experience and dedication is still valued.”

Student success and fiscal accountability are key for trustees.

“I will continue to be guided by best practices for good governance and I will contribute in any way I can to ensure safe spaces in our schools for all students and staff,” she said. “We must always provide a united front in support of the goals and values of public education despite the obstacles some critics may place in our way.”

Simko-Hatfield said providing quality public education “is the most basic and fundamental public service, so necessary for individuals, families, communities and societies to prosper. This service is something trustees certainly don’t provide alone.”

She thanked administration and teaching staff for their efforts, as well as the many essential staff within the school system.

“Collectively, you are the ones that give students the space to dream about their future and the tools to make their dreams come true,” she said.

McKinley will chair the board’s education committee and LeClair was chosen as chairperson of the operations and finance committee.

The next public meeting of the board of trustees will be Dec. 5.

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SAT U R D AY The cast of ‘You Can’t Beat Fun’, a musical comedy put on by Branch 157 of the Royal Canadian Legion. The performance was held at General Amherst High School in 1954. Proceeds from the play went towards the Branch 157’s building fund. Front row (left to right): John Peek, John Mallet, Bill McCutcheon, Bev Thompson, Pickard Bondy. Back row: Don Crowder, Red Roberts, Gerry Vance, Elmer Elford, Jim Findley.

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6 – River Town Times – Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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“Waterfront legacy project” unveiled by WECF in Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu A new “waterfront legacy project” has been unveiled by the WindsorEssex Community Foundation (WECF) in Amherstburg.

The “Hole in the Wall” photo frame was the site of a ribbon cutting ceremony last Thursday morning.

The photo frame was made possible by an investment from the WECF with support from the Town of Amherstburg, Amico and A-LINX Building Technologies and is situated next to the tourist information centre at 116 Sandwich St. North.

Amico and A-LINX oversaw design co-ordination, fabrication and site construction and contributed all labour and equipment resources to help bring the project to fruition.

Tom Touralias, a past WECF board member and director of special projects with Amico Affiliates, said the community is stronger when there are opportunities to gather together, noting the WECF makes connections with partners in the community on various projects.

“We are so proud to be with you to celebrate and unveil this legacy project,” said Touralias.

Mayor Michael Prue said the large photo frame will allow residents and visitors a chance to capture memories.

People can visit the tourist information booth and come over and have their photo taken with the frame with the Detroit River as the background.

“It serves as a new gateway to the community,” he stated. “It’s a beautiful, beautiful scene.”

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Mayor Michael Prue, joined by council colleagues, administration and members of the Windsor-Essex Community Foundation (WECF), cuts the ribbon on a new photo frame near the tourist booth on Front Road North. It was a “legacy project” from the WECF for their 40th anniversary.

Amherstburg is “absolutely thrilled” to join the WECF as the latter celebrates 40 years of inspiring philanthropy, the mayor added.

“Together, we’re creating a lasting legacy with this ‘Hole in the Wall’ photo op, celebrating our history and those who come together to experience it,” said Prue. “The Windsor-Essex Community Foundation’s support fuels these transformative projects, making them a vital partner in shaping our shared future.”

Heidi Baillargeon, Amherstburg’s director of parks, facilities, recreation and culture, stated the photo frame is a chance for members of the community

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and visitors to “make lasting memories” and she thanked the WECF for its investment.

Lisa Kolody, WECF’s executive director, said they organization is investing in communities to create projects that will result “in lasting change, reflect who we are as the people of Windsor-Essex County, value our sense of place and culture and honour both our local history and our future as it unfolds.”

Kolody added they are privileged to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Windsor-Essex Community Foundation with community partners like the Town of Amherstburg, whom

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she said are helping the WECF mark its milestone year by creating projects that help “foster a sense of community” throughout the Windsor-Essex County area.

The project was initially approved by town council in August. It was learned then the WECF was kicking in $15,000 for the project with the town putting up $15,000 as a contingency, if needed.

In addition to the photo frame, a sign was also installed explaining what “The Hole in the Wall” actually is.

“The Hole in the Wall is an inlet in the Detroit River located northwest of Bois Blanc Island. The passage is man-made, created when gaps were left in the Livingstone Channel dikes to allow boats to cross channels between Canada and the United States. The passage is said to have been used by rumrunners crossing the international boundary by small craft or car,” the sign reads. “The Livingstone Channel is named after William Livingstone, also known as The Man Who Shaped the Detroit River. The creation of this deep water channel was to speed shipping along the Great Lakes. Construction took place from 1908 till 1912. Today shipping vessels can be seen using this channel daily.”

Similar “waterfront legacy projects” have been invested in by the WECF around the region. They include a LaSalle Event Centre entrance garden, a seating area at Alexander Park in Windsor, and a photo frame project at Colchester Harbour in Essex.

The WECF has also invested in a “legacy cabin” at Bryerswood Youth Camp in Amherstburg.

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Wednesday, November 29, 2023 – River Town Times – 7

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Valentinis remains chair of WECDSB

Legion Br. 157 Ladies Auxiliary hosts Christmas Craft Show

By Ron Giofu

Special to the RTT Familiar faces will once again lead the board of trustees with the WindsorEssex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB).

Trustee Fulvio Valentinis will remain as the chair of the WECDSB for another year and Trustee Mary DiMenna will stay on as vice chair. Both were acclaimed to their respective positions at the board’s annual organizational meeting held last Tuesday night.

“It’s truly an honour to serve this board and it’s a great time to be working for the betterment of Catholic education in Windsor-Essex,” said Valentinis, a former Windsor City Councillor who was first elected to the WECDSB in Wards 1 and 10 in 2014 and is now serving his third term as a trustee. “Our student achievement results are very encouraging, we’re adding new programming, and our enrollment is exceeding expectations. Being responsible stewards of our resources will be especially challenging for us as we accommodate the influx of new students, and we’ll be monitoring the provincial situation as our government negotiates new contracts with our various labour groups. Ultimately though, we’ll continue to provide the

excellent service that our families have come to expect from us.”

Elections for the position of chair and vice chair are held on an annual basis, and trustees cast their votes for these positions at the Board’s yearly organizational meeting.

Mary DiMenna, who has represented Catholic ratepayers, parents and students in Essex, Kingsville and Leamington since 2003, is a retired WECDSB elementary teacher who spent 33 years in the classroom. Previously she was vice-chair from 2009-17, again for 2022, and has been active on a number of Catholic board committees including the audit committee, special education advisory committee, and discipline committee.

“We have a very united board of trustees who are all committed to working together with our administrators, and with one another, to make sure that we deliver on our key objective of providing faith filled environments where all of our students can achieve success,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to another very productive term with my colleagues.”

Frank DiTomasso is the WECDSB trustee that represents Amherstburg and LaSalle.

The Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 Ladies Auxiliary raised money for themselves and allowed people to do some Christmas shopping at the same time.

The Ladies Auxiliary held a Christmas Craft Show last Sunday at the Legion, with the service organization getting the proceeds from the event.

“We have 16 vendors, all local people with all different kinds of handmade, homemade stuff,” said Linda McCort, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary and one of the organizers of Sunday’s craft and vendor show.

“There’s a little bit of everything,” said McCort.

The Br. 157 Ladies Auxiliary have one craft show in the spring and one in the fall, with gift basket raffles and a 50/50 draw parts of the shows. The bulk of the vendors and the attendees were from Amherstburg, but McCort said it was possible that they had people from out-of-town due to posting a flyer on social media as well as an ad in the River Town Times.

Turnout was slower than organizers were hoping for. The Legion re-opened last Thursday after a brief closure due to a virus outbreak and McCort wondered if people stayed away from that. She also noted that crowds were lower early as many people go to church and then head over to the Legion.

The amount of vendors at the most recent craft show was similar to the

Tina Heeren was one of the vendors at the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 Ladies Auxiliary Christmas Craft Show last Sunday.

previous show in the spring. There were 19 at the spring craft show.

“It’s not a big change. Sixteen is good,” she said of Sunday’s show.

“They have a little bit of room.”

Tina Heeren brought her crafts and sold them at her “Tina’s Bags and Other Things” table. She said the show started “a bit slow” but was happy to be there. It was her second time at a Legion show.

“I just like the company,” said Heeren.

Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 is located at 281 Dalhousie St. in Amherstburg.

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The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission is asking you to partner with us to make Christmas 2023 a little brighter for the less fortunate in our community. We have all seen the impact of inflation in the cost of groceries and necessities and this year is going to be especially difficult, as a result.

In 2022 the Mission served more than 17,900 hot meals, provided 800 emergency food baskets and supported young families with much needed supplies such as baby food, formula, diapers and clothing.

Unfortunately, the need continues to grow but the Mission is committed to providing a safe, uplifting place for people to go on a daily basis to receive help when needed.

We operate with a team of approximately 70 unpaid volunteers who do it all from shopping, cooking, cleaning, office work, bookkeeping, yardwork, building repairs, fundraising, and so much more. It is important to everyone at the Mission to make every Christmas special so your support is key to our success. Please consider adopting a family this Christmas, providing a gift for the children or making a donation so that we can provide them with an excellent holiday meal. Our volunteers would be happy to work with you to make this happen!

We absolutely rely on your help to make this possible and thank our many faithful supporters and community partners, who give generously throughout the year.

DONATIONS can be mailed or dropped off at 298 Victoria St in Amherstburg or by visiting www. aburgmission.ca and clicking the “DONATE NOW” button.

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President Tim McAllister & the Board of Directors Charitable Receipts will be issued upon request – 519-736-9140

8 – River Town Times – Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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Wednesday, November 29, 2023 – River Town Times – 9

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 You may have difficulty reaching people this week, Aries. Whether it’s difficulty getting attention or tech issues affecting communication, use the situation as an opportunity to relax.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, a challenging project may lead you to throw yourself into work even more than usual over the course of the week. Remember to take time to exhale.

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GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Visit someone in person if you are looking to catch up or have a meaningful conversation, Gemini. Skip impersonal text messages or social media posts and meet face-to-face.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Unfortunate financial news may come your way, Cancer. Take the developments in stride and resolve to overcome them. Seek advice on how to do so, if necessary.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, there is a strong desire for romance surrounding you. Whether you want to spice up a current relationship or are seeking a new one, this is the week to put out feelers.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, enjoy a unique chance to spend quality time with someone you love. Enjoy the experience in the moment and resolve to spend more time together.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 An unexpected meeting with a friend and subsequent conversation could leave you feeling a little shaken, Libra. You will learn things that give you a new perspective.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 You could experience a desire to make sudden changes to your home life, work situation or even a relationship, Scorpio. Stagnation has set in, but now is not the time for big moves.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, if a message arrives from someone who lives far away, you may be prompted to hop in the car or on a plane and visit that person. An impromptu trip could be fun.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Look into all of the facts surrounding an offer to increase your income, Capricorn. It could be too good to be true, or it might be a legitimate deal. You need to sort things out.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, this week you may encounter someone who is very interested in you. The resulting attention can be quite flattering. You’ll need to decide if it should go further.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Situations that arise this week could have you feeling stressed, Pisces. Find ways you can separate yourself from certain situations that rile you up, even if it means a five-minute break.

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RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Carolyn Belisle was one of the many ACS volunteers that helped during the recent Coats for Kids campaign. She is seen at Encounter Church in Amherstburg during one of the distribution days.

Coats for Kids sees slight increase in coats distributed

By Ron Giofu The annual Coats for Kids campaign has wrapped up with a small increase in the number of coats distributed.

The program was run locally by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) in partnership with Cintas, Team Brad Bondy and the Unemployed Help Centre (UHC). Distribution took place over a four-day period earlier this month at Encounter Church.

“We distributed 335 coats last year and this year we were at 347,” said Peggy Thompson, the community awareness and fundraising co-ordinator with ACS. “It’s a slight increase from last year.”

Thompson said ACS is pleased to know they are helping to fulfill a need in the community.

They helped provide coats for all ages to not only Amherstburg residents, but people from Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle as well.

Team Brad Bondy assisted with a financial donation and use of their trailer to haul coats back and forth to

the UHC. Cintas helped by providing dry cleaning for the coats while the UHC stores the coats and to “fill the gaps” by sending out coats that weren’t available locally.

Coats that weren’t distributed were sent back to the UHC where they will be kept.

“We really want to thank the community,” she said. “They stepped up to the plate this year.”

Coats were collected at the ACS home within the Amherstburg Community Hub with other donation locations being Seasons Amherstburg Retirement Community and Diageo.

The distribution went well and Thompson thanked Encounter Church for opening its gymnasium and allowing coats to be picked up there.

The Gibson Gallery’s knitters guild helped provide such items as mittens, hats and scarves, she added.

“It warms our hearts every year to know those who need coats had an opportunity to get one,” said Thompson. “We hope everyone who needed one got one.”

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10 – River Town Times – Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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Garage Gym confirms move to new Murray St. location

The Garage Gym confirmed their move to 89 Murray St. in a social media post last week.

By Ron Giofu A local fitness facility is on the move and has confirmed where its new location will be.

Proclaiming via its social media channels “the small town rumour mill was right about this one!,” the Garage Gym confirmed its move to 89 Murray St. where the former Car Shop was located.

“Our new headquarters is being completely renovated, literally from the ground up. It will feature two massive glass garage doors, vaulted ceilings with skylights and other amenities that just weren’t possible during our humble journey from passion project to a multifacility business,” the social media post states. “Our vision is to create a place that symbolizes the growth of The Garage Gym Army since opening in our single

car garage in the monopoly subdivision over eight years ago.”

Garage Gym, which is owned by Tony and Dani Smith, states they “have loved every minute of our time at the corner of Richmond and Sandwich.”

Tony Smith told the RTT “we’re pumped about it” and “we weren’t really looking to move.” He said they were approaching the end of their lease and they had outgrown their current location. Smith said they began in part of the building at Richmond St. and Sandwich St. S. and eventually took over the entire site, but there were walls and dividers with the new location to be more of an open concept.

“It’ll be roughly the same size but more functional,” said Smith. “We want to be in there by the end of January.”

The plan is to start moving their equipment but not have it impact the programming. He said the gym’s programs won’t change moving to the new location.

According to the social media post: “We will have plenty of parking and have a solid plan designed to keep all of our services uninterrupted.”

Smith told the RTT “the way we operate day-to-day is not going to change.”

The Garage Gym will miss its current location, with Smith noting it’s the busiest corner in Amherstburg. He said there will be parking along one side of the new location and they are looking forward to being part of the downtown core.

Continued on Page 12

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Admirals split weekend games, shutout Wild 5-0

Amherstburg forward Connor Demelo (left) battles in front of the Walpole Island Wild net in Saturday’s game. The Admirals won 5-0.

Connor Demelo and Djordevic’s came on the powerplay.

Stefan Jacobs scored the other Amherstburg goal.

Hunter was noticeably pleased with his team’s performance and after the second period, met the players coming off the ice with a lot of praise.

Asked how the Admirals can move forward from the win, he said, “we stay focused.”

“We keep going. It’s a nice little boost but there’s a lot of work to do. We need to build a streak with some wins.”

Rookie goalie Joe Costea was named the first star of the game, getting his first junior shutout as he made 18 saves.

At the other end Walpole Island goalie Mitch Rawlings was busy, he turned away 44.

Last Friday night in Dresden, it was 1-1 after 20 minutes and deadlocked 2-2 after two periods before the Kings scored three unanswered in the third.

“We were out of it mentally and took some bad penalties that cost us,” said Hunter.

Besides Boucher and Armstrong, rookie Dallas Kelly scored for Amherstburg. Adam Enwright had a great night for the Kings with four goals.

After Papulkas got the winner early in the game, centre Allan Djordevic made it 2-0 and Charlie Coristine gave the hosts a big 3-0 lead, scoring shorthanded.

In total, ten Admirals skaters made it to the scoresheet against the Wild. Besides Coristine’s shorthanded goal,

SLAPSHOTS…Last time Amherstburg had a shutout win, November 13, 2022 against the Wallaceburg Thunderhawks…The Admirals play their mid-way regular season game (21 st) when they play host to the Dresden Kings on Saturday beginning at 7:30 p.m.

By Fred Groves There was lots to celebrate at the Libro Centre Saturday night as the Amherstburg Admirals snapped a threegame losing streak, blanking the Walpole Island Wild 5-0.

With the win, the Admirals improved their Provincial Junior Hockey League (Junior ‘C’) record to 4-16-0-0.

It was a weekend split for Amherstburg as Friday night in Dresden they came up short 5-3 to the host Kings.

Against the Wild, the hosts dominated all night and a powerplay goal by veteran Owen Papulkas, his first tally of the season, put Amherstburg ahead at the midway mark of the first period.

“We’ve been working on our forechecking a lot. We want to pressure their defence and turn pucks over,” said Admirals’ coach Beau Hunter.

That was very noticeable Saturday, and also quite apparent the past few games has been the fact that the defence has been more productive offensively. Jaxon Boucher had a pair of assists against the Wild and Friday in Dresden both he and fellow blueliner Braedan Armstrong connected.

“We are allowing them to be a little more aggressive,” said Hunter.

He noted that they are being patient on the back end, connecting on the stretch passes and creating opportunities.

AMHA looking into possible merger with Erie North Shore

By Ron Giofu The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) is once again looking into a possible merger with another local minor hockey group.

The minor hockey organization has a letter posted to its website stating they are looking into a merger with the Erie North Shore Minor Hockey Association (ENSMHA). The latter is a combination of players from Harrow and Kingsville.

AMHA president Wes Ewer told the RTT talks with Erie North Shore started around May 2023 about options they could look at to strengthen both organizations.

“Talks faded a bit as the summer unfolded and they started back up again a couple weeks ago. It was an idea that both sides had been thinking about individually until we were able to discuss it together,” said Ewer. “The talks started because with the shifting practices of our governing body and the way hockey is unfolding across the country, smaller associations are starting to be fewer and fewer. Both sides see what the future hockey landscape looks like and understand we need to do something now to ensure future sustainability for all of us.”

Ewer said if the merger were to occur, it would move them from being an organization of just over 400 players to around 950 players. A full amalgamation would not be likely until 2025-26.

“Both ENSMHA and AMHA do not field travel teams at all age groups, due to a lack of players. If we are able to move forward with this merger, we would be able to have a minor, major and ‘C’ (additional entry) team at each level,” he said. “On another level, we would be partnering with a like-minded group of people that want the same things we want. ENSMHA does a lot of great stuff in terms of player and goalie development among other things and I think overall, when you add more hockey people with different experiences

together the biggest winner is going to be the athletes.

I am excited about the opportunity to learn from them and share experiences with each other to create the strongest association we can, again, for the athletes.”

Ewer said each association is planning information sessions to hear from its respective memberships.

“We are still waiting for direction/feedback from the OMHA before this happens. Nothing has formally come to the board - or at least to me anyway - in terms of questions or thoughts yet,” said Ewer. “With that said, going into this process, we were pretty aware of what the questions from the members would be. I think the biggest questions from the memberships are going to be centered around, where their athlete is playing hockey each season (what arena), the coach and team selection process to name a few. ENSMHA and AMHA both believe in making things as fair as possible.”

As for how it would impact ice purchases at the Libro Centre, that is an issue that still has to be resolved.

“We have not got that far in the process yet to exactly know this answer. Our plan is an even distribution of ice usage across the three arenas. However, looking at it logically, we double our player size and double our ice pad access. If we didn’t merge, nothing is doubled.

So I suspect the usage would be consistent,” he said. “If anything, I would suggest to you that it would be more ice used. Our goal, as mentioned earlier, is to have Minor, Major and ‘C’ at each level. But that is speaking only in terms of travel teams. We see this merger also strengthening the numbers in house league for each association, so the plan would be to offer select teams at as many levels as possible also. More hockey options for our athletes.”

How close Amherstburg players would stay to home is also something that has to be worked out.

“We need to get some direction from the OMHA on next steps and then you will see more action from the merger committees from each side. What I can say, is that we want to make it fair. When you look at the

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travel side of things, you could see minor, major and C all playing at one arena each for the year. Or you could see an even distribution of the three arenas for all teams for the season,” said Ewer. “On the house league side of things, our goal is to have players play in their preferred home location to the best of our ability.

Whatever the outcome is, it will be fair.”

Ewer added he is very excited for the opportunity, stating Erie North Shore “is a great partner for us.” He said he has been through good times and rough times during his 11 years with AMHA. “Right now, it’s been a rough time. Changing rules and player movement have impacted the desired results AMHA would want for its players and teams over the last few years. I truly believe this is the best option for the future sustainability of hockey in Amherstburg. I understand that there will be some growing pains through this process. I understand that driving further for practice may be unappealing. I encourage everyone to come out to the information sessions, take emotion out of it and ask these questions and let’s discuss,” said Ewer. “It is important our membership knows that we will be very transparent and forthcoming with information throughout this process. Whatever happens, our members have the final say. This does not happen without a two-thirds majority vote at annual meeting that would take place in the future. We just need to look at the bigger picture and long term outlook for AMHA. If we do that, I think our members will see this is a great opportunity for us.”

In January, talks were underway to look at combining with LaSalle but talks were halted due to changes put forth by the Bluewater League. According to an announcement by AMHA at that time, the Bluewater League was in discussions with local minor hockey centres about the possibility of their members becoming “A” based category centres. The move led to the AMHA board of executives voting unanimously to halt discussions with LMHA regarding a merger.

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Wednesday, November 29, 2023 – River Town Times – 12

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Amherstburg native pens book on Canadian baseball legend

By Ron Giofu

SUBMITTED PHOTO

Jon Laframboise stands with his new book “They Call Him Fergie” while standing next to Ferguson Jenkins’ Hall of Fame plaque in Cooperstown, New York.

Jon Laframboise is a lifelong baseball fan, an educator and a father.

With those passions and experiences, he has channelled that into a new children’s book on Baseball Hall of Famer Ferguson “Fergie” Jenkins. The new book is called “They Call Him Fergie.”

Laframboise is originally from Amherstburg and is now an elementary school teacher in Toronto. He was able to get to know Jenkins and that led to his Jenkins agreeing on the idea of a children’s book.

“Several years ago, I came up with the idea for a children’s book on Fergie Jenkins,” said Laframboise.

Noting he and his wife starting buying children’s books for their family led to Laframboise wanting to write one himself on Jenkins. The idea came in 2017 and Laframboise approached Jenkins with it. Jenkins said there were four books on him already but Laframboise said his idea was focused more on children, something that hadn’t been done yet.

“He gave me the well wishes to do it,” said Laframboise.

The book is published independently and Laframboise did much of the legwork himself on it, over and above actually writing it. He said he is “a huge baseball fan” and travels to Cooperstown, New York for the Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremonies regularly.

Laframboise worked with illustrator Chris Ripley, a sports artist whom Laframboise said did a great job on it. Knowing that Jenkins’ family had kept scrapbooks of his career when he was younger, the style of art in “They Call Him Fergie” resembles that of a scrapbook.

“As a teacher, I know a lot of young kids didn’t know

who he was,” said Laframboise. “People know who Wayne Gretzky is. I think Fergie Jenkins deserves to be in that same discussion.”

Laframboise said he has known Jenkins for several years, even having him visit his classroom in 2011. He is selling his book through his website at www.theycallhimfergie.com for $25 and wants it in independent book stores as well. He has spoken with the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society about the book and would love to see the 25-page book reach younger people.

“I would love it to be in museums and schools.”

Not only does the book touch on Jenkins’ career on the diamond, it also touches on the racism he experienced along the way, Laframboise pointed out.

“It’s important to point that out and I hope kids will understand that and ask questions about it,” said Jenkins.

Jenkins - a former pitcher with the Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies, Texas Rangers and Boston Red Sox – is one of two Canadians in the Baseball Hall of Fame along with Larry Walker. He wrote the foreward to Laframboise’s book. Walkerville Publishing out of Windsor helped design the book and put it together.

“My goal is to educate people on Fergie Jenkins,” he said.

Laframboise added he hopes to travel to shows and have book signings, with some in Windsor-Essex County.

He said he would love to have one in Amherstburg.

“Baseball fans will love the book,” he predicted. “I think it’s $25 well spent for someone who enjoys the sport.”

People can also obtain more information through the book’s Instagram account by searching “They Call Him Fergie.”

Pre-budget consultation held locally with provincal finance minister

By Ron Giofu Local municipalities and other area stakeholders met with the provincial finance minister late last week to state their cases and present their input.

Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy came to the Ciociaro Club in Tecumseh last Friday for pre-budget consultations with mayors, treasurers and executive directors among the presenters. Bethlenfalvy was joined

by Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie and Essex MPP Anthony Leardi.

“We had a great budget consultation,” said Bethlenfalvy. “We’re doing these right across the province.”

There were about 40 submissions from a cross-section of sectors, he noted, with municipal infrastructure a big topic raised. Their need to support the most vulnerable in society, including the homeless, was also voiced, the minister stated. Each presenter had three minutes to state their case.

Bethlenfalvy said housing is a major focus of the provincial government, and stated they are giving municipalities the tools they need to build homes faster. He said there is a $200 million investment included in the Fall Economic Statement to support upgrades and expansion to water system infrastructure. The $200 million

Finance minister Peter Bethlenfalvy (left) chats with Essex MPP Anthony Leardi (centre) and WindsorTecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie (right) following a pre-budget consultation at the Ciociaro Club.

investment is over three years and is known as the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund.

The provincial population is expected to grow to 16 million over the next two years and there is a need for more housing, the minister stated. There is also a need for the infrastructure to support that additional housing.

“We listen to everyone,” said Bethlenfalvy.

The input is gathered and compiled to see what goes into the provincial budget.

Leardi said “massive” millions of dollars in funding has gone to Essex

County municipalities and much of that goes to projects like roads, culverts and sewers. He said the minister is working to provide the funding so the province can reach its goal of having 1.5 million homes constructed in Ontario.

The Essex MPP said the province will “keep building Ontario” and help to have the housing construction target met. Leardi also touted the HousingEnabling Water Systems Fund, something he refers to as the water infrastructure fund.

Data presented by Leardi’s office shows local municipalities have received over $45.4 million since

Learning local politics Grade 5 students at Anderdon Public School recently learned lessons about local government thanks to a visit from Mayor Michael Prue. Prue attended the Middle Side Road elementary school and spoke with the students about his role and what town council does.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

2019 through Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund, with Amherstburg leading the way with over $11.3 million.

With regards to Ontario Municipal Partnership Fund grants, there was almost $25.6 million given to local municipalities since 2021, with Essex receiving the most at over $15.1 million while Amherstburg was just shy of $5.1 million.

“Ontario is facing a housing crisis like never before and our government will continue to work with partners at every level of government to get shovels in the ground to build more housing,” said Bethlenfalvy. “We will continue building a strong Ontario together through our responsible, targeted approach to get more critical infrastructure built while laying a strong fiscal foundation for future generations.”

Bethlenfalvy said it is key for all three levels of government to work together to identify and resolve their issues.

Dowie believed the province is already working on a lot of the issues raised at the pre-budget consultation, such as employment, housing, infrastructure and skilled trades. He said that shows the province has the right focus. He said that made him feel pleased.

“Municipalities have a strong role to play,” he said.

Gym plans to move in January

Continued from Page 10

While thankful to their future landlord, Smith said they are grateful to their current landlord, saying he has been supportive of the business.

“I want this to be a symbol of how much we’ve grown,” said

Smith, of the move.

Smith added the Garage Gym has free one-week trials and the business has come a long way since he and his wife started it in their garage.

“We’re home grown in Amherstburg,” he said.

Wednesday, November 29 – River Town Times – 13

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Organizers pleased with 16th annual Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade

By Ron Giofu The Town of Amherstburg was busy last Saturday night as Santa Claus came to town.

The Windsor Parade Corporation presented the 16th annual Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade with executive director Maggie Durocher estimating 15,000 were on the streets.

“We were really excited by it,” said Durocher. “It was a large parade. We had a lot of community entries.”

Durocher said the individual, group and corporate entries were very thoughtful and imaginative, and she credited people who entered the parade for the time and effort they put into them.

“The crowd was unbelievable,” said Durocher. “It wasn’t too cold.”

The streets were bare around 5:30 p.m. Saturday when Durocher said she travelled them on a golf cart, but by the parade’s start time of 6 p.m., they were

quickly filled.

“You could see people coming to the streets like magnets,” she said. “It was something to see.”

The Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment was credited with keeping the streets safe and for ensuring the closures went off without a hitch.

“Police did a great job,” said Durocher.

There were eight bands in the Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade and Durocher said she was pleased to see them return.

“We’re seeing an increase of the marching bands after COVID,” said Durocher. “(The parade) was really lively. It looked really good.”

Durocher thanked the Amherstburg community and those who visited from outside the town for coming out. She said it was not a small town parade, but a “big town” parade and she was impressed by it. Community support made it a “special” parade.

While the Windsor Parade Corporation was pleased with the overall event, there were some things to work out internally for the next one.

There were some gaps in the parade and some of that was caused by inflatable characters unable to keep up with the pace of the parade. Durocher is confident those will be worked out and didn’t believe it detracted from the Amherstburg parade Saturday night.

“The parade looked great,” she said.

Many of the volunteers that comprise the Windsor Parade Corporation call Amherstburg home and were happy to stage the parade in their hometown.

“We’re 100 per cent volunteerdriven,” said Durocher. “We’re really looking for people to get involved.

Anyone who wants to reach out can contact us through our website.”

Sponsors were also thanked for their involvement and support, with Durocher adding Rob & Tina’s No Frills hosted a “fan zone” again this year with

free crafts, entertainment, cookies and games for children and it also served as a VIP area for sponsors.

“Thank you to the community for its support,” she said. “Without the crowds on the street, we couldn’t do what we do.”

The Windsor Parade Corporation is assisting with a parade in Blenheim this Friday and stages the Windsor Santa Claus Parade this Saturday at 6 p.m. with a new route in the city’s downtown core. They present the Essex BIA Santa Claus Parade Dec. 9 along Talbot St. in Essex starting at 6:30 p.m.

A new event for the corporation this year is the “Christmas at Heritage Village” event every Friday through Sunday at 6155 Arner Townline. The free event runs from 5-9 p.m. every weekend through Dec. 23 except for parade dates.

For more information on the Windsor Parade Corporation and its events, visit www.windsorparade.org.

Sponsors were a key part of last Saturday night’s Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade.

Santa Claus greets the public along Dalhousie St.

The Anderdon Public School band were one of eight bands in the Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU For more photos, visit our social media pages

Re-enactors from Fort Malden National Historic Site march down Richmond St. during the parade.

The Sun Parlour Pipes and drums were part of the parade.

Skate Amherstburg was part of Saturday night’s parade.

Sarah Parks Horsemanship was in the parade.

Pepe’s Pumpkin Patch in LaSalle returned as one of floats in the Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade.

Inflatables were part of Saturday’s parade.

Wednesday, November 29, 2023 – River Town Times – 14

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Community Calendar

THURS, NOV. 30 & FRI, DEC. 1 DICKENS’ A CHRISTMAS CAROL; Runs at Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St., from 7-9 p.m. Thursday and 7 p.m. Friday. Tickets $20, purchase online at www.parkhousemuseum.com.

Tickets include storytelling, music and intermission treats (tea and dessert). Advance tickets required.

More information (519) 564-7172.

WED, DEC. 13 & SUN DEC. 17 CHRISTMAS CANTATA; “Have You Heard? A Celtic Christmas Celebration” by Joel Raney. Join our music director Matthew Kulbacki and the St. Andrew’s Choir for our annual Christmas Cantata at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 129 Simcoe FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1 St. (at Bathurst St.)! Wednesday, December 13 at ROTARY FISH FRY & BBQ NIGHT; Held at 7:30 p.m. & Sunday, December 17 at 10:30 a.m.

River’s Edge Tap & Table, 494 Riverdale Ave., in Windsor. Tickets $35, cash bar. Plenty of free SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17 parking. A benefit for Fr. Stephen Gyasi’s clean FREE COMMUNITY TURKEY DINNER; The water project in Ghana. Runs from 4:30-8:30 McGregor Squirettes of Mary hosting 27th p.m. For tickets or info, call Kim Spirou at 519- annual community turkey dinner at Columbian 551-3747 or e-mail kspirou@hotmail.ca.

Club Hall (9560 Walker Rd) in McGregor.

Reservations to dine in can be made online at SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2 https://forms.gle/wshutodngAidDiHx7 while WINTER MARKET; Presented by the Core in take-out meals can be reserved at https://forms. the Downtown Espresso/Dan Gemus parking lot gle/ndFAZyRGG61zNPDM8. Sponsored by from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Free to attend.

KOC #2844. People can also call Rose Renaud at 519-919-5318 for assistance in placing an SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3 order. Home delivery in the McGregor area will TURKEY BINGO; Held at St Joseph’s Church, be provided for those physically unable to driveRiver Canard (9399 Townline Road). Doors open up. Runs from 3-6 p.m. Donations accepted. at 6 p.m., bingo starts at 7 p.m. $5 admission. Ten regular rounds, two share the wealth rounds, one SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24 basket round. Awesome, and many door prizes, CHRISTMAS EVE AT ST. ANDREW’S 50/50 draw. Kitchen open, hot dogs, chips, pop, PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH; Christmas Eve coffee, tea. Come on out and join in on the fun. Sunday worship service at 10:30 a.m., candlelight We still mark the cards with corn kernels. service at 7 p.m. Church located at 129 Simcoe St., at Bathurst St. For info, call 519-736-4972.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 CHRISTMAS AT THE MUSEUM; Held at the MONDAY, DECEMBER 25 Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 277 King St., CHRISTMAS AT THE MISSION; Free hot starting at 7 p.m. Featuring music from Josh turkey dinner served at the Amherstburg Food & Johnson. Tickets $30, includes music, refreshments Fellowship Mission (298 Victoria St. S.) from 12-1 and silent auction. Concert in Nazrey AME p.m. Special thanks to the support of individuals Church. For info call 519-736-5433. For tickets, and companies for helping to make this possible. visit http://amherstburgfreedom.org/CAM. THURSDAY, JANUARY 18 WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6 DUELLING PIANOS EVENT; Benefits Rotary A.L.S. (LOU GEHRIG’S) PASTA DINNER; All Ghana Mission. Duelling Pianos is a unique, you can eat pasta, salad & bun with coffee or tea high energy and audience interactive show. for $15 at the Caboto Charity Pasta Night from Two pianos and two musicians play, sing and 4 -7 p.m. Mark your calendar and come join the entertain. Enjoy a delicious meal prepared by A.L.S. Society of (Windsor) Essex County as we the chefs at the Windsor Yacht Club. Proceeds to host this event. Eat in or take out is available for fund water wells, medical and literacy projects in delicious pasta with meat or vegetarian sauce. All Ghana. Windsor Yacht Club is located at 9000 funds remain in our area to help provide equipment Riverside Dr. East in Windsor. Tickets $100, $950 to those living with A.L.S. and to support research. for table of ten. Starts at 6 p.m. For tickets or

info, call Kim Spirou at 519-551-3747 or e-mail p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www. kspirou@hotmail.ca. aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

ONGOING LOLA’S PAJAMA FAIRY PROJECT; From Nov. GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, 1-Dec. 1, the Windsor-Essex County community Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at the is invited to donate new pajamas for children, Libro Recreation Centre is offering social activities youth and adults to ensure they experience the five days a week, $10 a year to join. There are “coziness and happiness” of the holiday season. over 160 members who have fun playing euchre, Amherstburg drop-off locations include Remax pepper, bingo, cribbage, and bridge and Realty and the Libro Centre. In LaSalle, donations doing line dancing. We also have three special can be dropped off at the LaSalle Civic Centre. luncheons and a beautiful Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG in. Visit website (www.goldenagecentre.ca) to MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and see how to join, participate, and learn how we fourth Wednesday of the month in the Community support our community.

Room at ACS at 6 p.m. Want more information?

Reach out to Joan Donaldson at 519-736-5728 ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at or rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com. New Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond members welcome.

St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every volunteer hours are available for high school second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation). students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood.com.

Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo on Thursday at 7 p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) from 4:30- BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen 6:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. Everyone welcome. Association continues to accept donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse Church, donate their empties can drop them off at the rear in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a For information, visit www.amasportsmen.com or free dinner. All welcome. Come meet others in call 519-736-5706. the community and enjoy some good food. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is located FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club seeking donors to join the “Founders at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).

Club.” Donors help fund general operations fund MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presenting become “Founders Club” members and have one mental health and counselling services at The square of camp property sponsored in their name.

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Of all the special gifts in life However great or small To have you as our Daughter Was the greatest gift of all May the winds of love blow softly And whisper in you ear We love and miss you Julie And wish that you were here

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Wednesday, November 29 – River Town Times – 17

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LaSalle’s Holiday Lights and Heritage Nights now underway

By Kenneth Pastushyn The Town of LaSalle kicked off their Holiday Lights Heritage Nights season with the official lighting of a 40-foot-tall walk-through Christmas tree.

It happened last Friday evening at six and this annual event will run through Jan. 7. The LaSalle Civic Centre was transformed into a magical wonderland with many holiday lighting displays and ornaments covering the town’s tree.

Santa Claus arrived with a police escort in a golf cart to begin the festivities.

“Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas!” shouted a jolly Santa waving to the crowd.

“I say Merry, you say?” asked Santa awaiting a reply.

“Christmas!” yelled the crowd. Santa asked one more time and the crowds reply was even louder.

“Wonderful,” said Santa before introducing LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche.

The mayor thanked Santa as well as all the town councilors in attendance. She especially gave a big thank you to the town’s municipal staff for putting up all the lights at the Civic Centre, encouraging the crowd to give a real loud cheer for them.

“Without them, we wouldn’t have this event,” said Meloche. “They put up the lights for us to enjoy.”

Before the countdown, the mayor also thanked Essex Power Lines for their support and for the time and dedication of the many people involved in the organization of Holiday Lights Heritage Nights.

She also reminded everyone about the Sunday Holiday Market at the Events Centre on Front Road and other weekend activities until Dec. 17.

Friday evenings are family nights with Santa visiting from 6-9 p.m. There are other activities such as balloon twisting and face painting by Funky Faces. And the children can have their photos taken

Holiday Lights and Heritage Nights is now featured at the LaSalle municipal complex at Malden Road and Normandy St. Photos by Ron GIofu

with lively animated characters from Enchanted Adventure Parties.

Refreshments can also be purchased at various food trucks on Friday nights. Hot chocolate is being served at Montenaro’s (Colombian) Coffee as is Belgian-style waffles at the Waffle Truck and street food such as French fries at Sizzlers Snack Shack.

“We see children with their families walking around, smiling faces,” said Kim Scherer, recreation programmer for the Town of LaSalle’s events division.

Those smiles are as bright as the holiday lights which are lit-up nightly from 5-10 p.m. There are sensory hours with lights but no music Monday through Thursday from 5-10 p.m.

There are also local musical performances during Sound of the Season Saturday nights from 5-8 p.m.

Christmas carols were sung by the Windsor Classic Chorale choristers last Saturday. Be sure to check the town’s web site for updates on the entertainment schedule.

“This is a beautiful way to bring our community together,” said Scherer. “It just really means a lot to have our community come out and support us.”

Tuesday, December 5 th

Seniors Day Tuesday, December 12 th

Customer Appreciation Day All Christmas Items 25% off

We also want to remind everyone of our NEW LOCATION 400 Sandwich St S, Amherstburg Hours: Monday to Saturday 9-5

Wednesday, November 29 – River Town Times – 18

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Teacher tech training takes place at North Star High School

By Ron Giofu Proper use of evolving technology and getting the most of the machines they have was behind a recent training session at North Star High School.

Manufacturing teachers from the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) were at North Star last Thursday for a day-long training exercise that was jointly presented by the Canadian Tooling and Machining Association (CTMA) and the Ontario Council for Technology Education (OCTE).

The exercise that took place last week was HAAS CNC training. Dave Lewis, past chair and Career Ready program manager, said the CTMA and OCTE work together in manufacturing technology classes across Ontario to help upgrade them by providing CNC equipment in schools that is similar to what is found in the workplace.

Lewis estimated they have worked with numerous high schools across the province.

“This is a series of 12 teacher CNC training sessions across the province,” said Lewis. “We’ll be training approximately 200 high school teachers across Ontario.”

The session at North Star High School was somewhat smaller than most that the groups condust, with Lewis noting he has conducted training sessions as far as Hamilton, Thunder Bay and Sudbury.

Lewis pointed out he is based out of North Bay. “I work with the CTMA to manage the Career Ready program,” he said.

The HAAS CNC machine is an “industry standard” machine students will see when they enter the workplace.

Many schools have older equipment but schools with newer equipment allow students to see what is available in the real world.

“This shop (at North Star) is in pretty good shape,” said Lewis, adding other shops have equipment “older than we are.”

In addition to training teachers on the equipment and allowing them to pass that knowledge to their students, teachers were trained to get the maximum use out of each CNC machine.

Lewis estimated the value of the HAAS CNC machine at North Star at $100,000, with the CTMA and OCTE helping to provide up to $90,000 of that cost.

The Canadian Tooling and Machining Association and the Ontario Council for Technology Education teamed up on a joint training session for teachers at North Star High School last Thursday.

Elmstead Ave. fire causes $800,000 damage

Please Shop Locally!

Continued from Page 1

the collection. “I know a lot of people “There isn’t a doubt in my mind that donated to the GoFundMe page that if my brother or sister-in-law ran into was set up by his sister.”

The family is “starting from scratch,” someone on the street tonight who she added, noting the home was needed a coat, they would give them destroyed. the only one they have, and that is why Hadfield said the fundraising and I believe they have received so much clothes collection will continue so support. They are selfless, and giving, people who couldn’t donate items and the community is stepping up to Saturday can still contribute. return the favour,” said Fox. People can contact Malden Central One of the Bradt children is a student Public School to arrange donations at Malden Central Public School with with the school’s phone number is the school immediately stepping up 519-736-4529. to assist.

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Wednesday, November 29 – River Town Times – 19

www.rivertowntimes.com

John R. Park Homestead prepares for holiday event

By Fred Groves When one door closes, another opens up, or in the case of the John R. Park Homestead, 12 doors open.

Getting ready for the festive season, the Friends of John R. Park Homestead have begun preparing for the 12 Barns of Christmas and Holiday Makers Market at the County Road 50 historic destination.

The sprawling house, which overlooks Lake Erie, is currently closed for renovations but the group that supports the homestead in numerous ways, have decided to go all out and decorate the dozen outer buildings.

“The interior of the house is closed right now

RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES Jessica Rose was busy at the John R. Park Homestead on Saturday preparing for the festive season.

so we are looking at the 12 barns,” said curator and education co-ordinator Kris Ives.

The event is being held this Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

As many as 20 local artisan makers will be there. A scavenger hunt through the 12 barns, and gifts of Christmas past are all part of the activities.

John R. Park and his family settled in the area and lived on the farm from 1833 to the 1860’s before they moved permanently to Amherstburg. The large Victorian house was built in 1842 and is owned by the Essex Region Conservation Authority.

For many years, The Friends of the John R. Park Homestead have been volunteering to keep the tradition going. The group held its Annual General Meeting this past Saturday and then over a dozen volunteers got to work and put a special festive holiday touch to the grounds.

One of the most popular outbuildings at Homestead is the working blacksmith shop.

“I think people will really enjoy the blacksmith shop. There is a lot of coal and coal has lore at Christmas,” said Ives.

One of the wreaths that will decorate the buildings will have small blacksmith tools included.

Ives said that on Dec. 3, in one of the barns, there will be an old-fashioned sleigh that has been restored so visitors can sit on and have their pictures taken. Another highlight is that while the house itself is closed, many of the artifacts have been taken out and put on display.

Expect a visit from Holly and Misty a couple of friendly Shetland ponies as well as meet St. Nicks friend Ruprecht and see if your name is on the nice list.

Tickets for the event can be purchased at the door or online at essexregionconservation. ca/12barns.

Gingerbread contest winners As part of the annual River Lights Winter Festival, the town held a Gingerbread House building contest. Winners were crowned last Friday night in the warning house within Toddy Jones Park. Those winning prizes included Youth under 5 Myles Kidd (second from left), Youth 6-13 yrs Genevive Brennan (far left), Teen 14-19yrs Max Brochert (absent), Adult category Sandy Maitre (second from left) and expert category Amanda LaSorda (absent) and Sandy Guadagno (right). The contest was sponsored by James H. Sutton Funeral Home.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Family Swimming at Movati Athletic Club The Town of Amherstburg has partnered with Movati Athletic Club to offer FREE public swimming for Amherstburg residents

Saturday, December 2 ~ 2:30-3:30pm Saturday, December 2 ~ 4:00-5:00pm Wednesday, December 20 ~ 5:30-6:30pm Wednesday, December 20 ~ 7:00-8:00pm Saturday, December 30 ~ 2:30-3:30pm Saturday, December 30 ~ 4:00-5:00pm Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10 am to 12 pm 320 Richmond Street

Pre-registration is required Visit townofamherstburg.perfectmind.com or call (519) 736-5712 to book

For info 519-736-0012 No pre-registration required. Drive thru.

(Space is limited to 30 people per session) For questions regarding the pool contact: aobright@movatiathletic.com

20 – River Town Times – Wednesday, November 29, 2023

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AmherstburgTownHall Aburg_TownHall 2 1 Sat 29 Thurs 30 Fri Paint Class 2024 Dog Tags 55+ You & Me Economic available online Dec 2 & 9 Club Development LEARN MORE Colleen Learning Advisory about New Rens Castonguay Together Committee Pets promo Register TODAY! Survey amherstburg.ca/ talktheburg.ca Meeting 519-736-5712 doglicensing townofamherstburg.

5PM Town Hall Public Skating perfectmind.com Cancelled Today 12:30-2:20pm Recycle

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

Toddy Jones Park

Mon

4

Tues

Mon

11

Tues

9 Wed 6 Thurs 8 Sat 7 Fri Visit Riverlights Downtown every night of the week! Beginner Skating 2024 Proposed Special Council 11:30-12:20PM Meeting Budget Public Skating Budget Tabling Survey available 6PM Town Hall 12:30-2:20PM talktheburg.ca Youth Skating 4-4:50PM Final Collection $4/person or Yard Waste $12/family(max 5) North Zone

Regular Council Meeting 6PM Town Hall

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21 6:00 PM - 6:50 PM A FUN SKATING TIME FOR PEOPLE WITH SENSORY SENSITIVITIES

During this sensory-friendly skate, the Libro Recreation Centre will dim its lights, reduce noise by asking skaters to speak softly and regular maintenance will be suspended. The Energy Zone room will also be available for participants to put on and take off skates with limited distractions. Wheelchairs are permitted; all patrons on the ice must wear skates.

Helmets strongly encouraged. Skates not provided.

Limited number of skate aids available for use.

LIBRO CENTRE, 3295 MELOCHE RD. CONTACT US AT RECREATION@AMHERSTBURG.CA OR (519) 736-5712

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

Public Skating Cancelled Today 12:30-2:20pm