River Town Times - May 28, 2025

CPAP SUPPLIES & MACHINES

Motorcycles cruise into town as part of Ride for Dad

(Above photo) The Windsor Motorcycle Ride for Dad presented its 20th annual event this past Sunday morning with its first stop being at Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157. Legion executive member Rita Jariett (centre) and 2nd vice president Trish Ford (second from right) present a $1,500 cheque to Dave Mathes from Ride for Dad Canada (left), local ride co-chair Shane Miles (second from left) and co-chair James Prior (right).

(Left photo) Bikes pull up to the Amherstburg Legion Sunday morning as Br. 157 was one of the three stops on the ride after it left Thunder Road Harley Davidson in Windsor.

PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

By Ron Giofu

It was a milestone year for the regional Motorcycle Rad for Dad and it is a milestone year annually as well.

The Windsor Motorcycle Ride for Dad was last Sunday, but an Amherstburg tradition was maintained as the first stop was at Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157. The Amherstburg Legion once again gave back as they presented local Ride organizers with a donation of $1,500.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 was also recognized as a gold-level sponsor.

Following the stop at the Legion, the stops included the Colchester Bar & Grill and the Bourbon Tap & Grill in Belle River.

“It think it went pretty well,” said local ride co-chair Shane Miles. “It looks like we have about the same as last year.”

There were about 300 riders last year with at least that amount this year.

The sponsors were thanked, with Miles noting contributions from Unifor Local 444, TD Bank, Thompson Manor Steak & Seafood and Thunder Road Harley Davidson, the latter being where the local Ride for Dad begins and is based out of.

Dave Mathes, assistant operations officer of Ride for Dad Canada, joined the local Ride for Dad as he noted it was the 20th annual Windsor Ride for Dad and 25th anniversary of the Canada-wide Ride for Dad.

The Ride for Dad in this region has attracted approximately 10,000 motorcycle riders over the 20-year timespan, Mathes said, and has raised over $1.2 million for prostate cancer treatment and awareness.

Nationally, Ride for Dad has raised over $43 million for the fight against prostate cancer.

Mathes added there are national incentives for fundraising including the chance to win a BMW motorcycle and a motorcycle trip through the Rockies from Renedian Motorcycle Tours.

Miles said while they were happy with how Sunday’s Ride for Dad went locally, they are trying to build it back up to where it once was. He said they had upwards of 800 bikes at one point.

Continued on Page 8

Heritage Conservation District draws both support and concern from public

By Ron Giofu

The town’s proposed heritage conservation district (HCD) may be finalized as soon as next month.

That news is pleasing to some that attended a special planning meeting Monday night, but others are opposed to the plan and don’t want it impacting their homes or businesses.

Adam Coates, the town’s heritage planner, and Nick Bogaert from the consulting firm MHBC both made presentations to town council and the public during the meeting, but Mayor Michael Prue led off by stating the HCD was placed with a “holding” provision last year.

“This discussion will make it permanent,” he indicated.

Coates told the meeting the HCD is designed to recognize, protect and enhance a municipality’s heritage resources, guide demolition and alteration processes, increase public awareness of the town’s history and “manage change” to new construction or development of infill lots.

“With a heritage conservation district, the town can build programming around heritage,” he said.

Properties in the HCD zone, which encompasses much of the downtown core and areas adjacent to it east of Sandwich St. S., would be contributing or non-contributing properties. He said heritage alteration permits would not be required for regular maintenance and interior modifications, with examples being roofs, eves troughs, solar panels, lighting, landscaping, security systems, fencing, porches, storm windows, stairs, and signage.

Research on properties was performed in partnership with the Marsh Historical Collection and other local historians. The town has less authority over exterior design thanks to provincial legislation, he indicated.

Bogaert said MHBC was retained in

April 2023 to help with the process. He said the overall purpose of an HCD is manage change in an HCD area. He added there are six distinct “character areas” within the zone, with many having homes and buildings dating back to the 19th Century.

Park St. resident Nicole Bertrand said she was fine with the town protecting history, but had concerns regarding her home being included in it. She said she maintains her home, called it her “forever home,” and said she didn’t want to be in the HCD.

“I think it should be our choice,” said Bertrand.

Costs were of concern to Bertrand, stating insurance was an issue for her.

“What is the town going to do help us?” she asked.

Bertrand added she doesn’t want to worry about being told how to maintain it or have additional cost.

“I should have a say on what I can do with my house,” she said. “I don’t want someone to tell me what I can do with my own house. I want my house to be what I make of it.”

Coates said there are some misconceptions and that when a historic element is gone, it’s gone for good. He said the HCD is to guide development and that insurance should not be impacted.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, an insurance broker in his day job, said insurance agents should not be told houses are heritage unless they actually area.

“A heritage designation is different than a house in a heritage district,” said Gibb. “This heritage designation should have nothing to do with your insurance.”

Gary Bowerman questioned about nearby proposals, such as the one at the former General Amherst High School with two residential towers proposed. He wondered if that goes ahead, would it open the door for development in the downtown heritage district?

Robert Honor, a heritage committee member, said he has seen various

Memories of Yesterday...

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

plans for an HCD since 2008. He said the committee has endorsed the latest proposal, noting it was very thorough. Properties of interest are at risk and he believed an HCD could help address that.

Heritage is helpful for tourism, he suggested, and that “a nice, heritage atmosphere makes people want to shop, dine, relax and to live.”

Entrepreneurs see heritage as “great business,” he added, noting the opening of hotels, coffee shops and other businesses in recent years.

Carolyn Davies, a bed and breakfast owner in the downtown core, said “Amherstburg is a town with a rich history and culture.” Protecting it has economic benefits, she said.

“A designated heritage district would further enhance the town’s appeal,” she said. “Amherstburg has the potential to be the premium heritage tourist destination in Ontario.”

Janet Willoughby, a Rankin St. resident, added her family’s home is heritage and they haven’t had issues in upgrades and maintenance of their home.

“Our house was designated in 2010 under the Heritage Act,” said Willoughby. Willoughby said the town has given them guidance when they have wanted to do upgrades, such as new garage doors. Window upgrades had to go through the heritage committee, she noted.

“That was seamless as well,” she said. Insurance hasn’t been an issue, according to Willoughby, noting they had a fire several years ago.

Sarah Brush, co-owner of Speck’s Restaurant, voiced her opposition to an HCD. She said she understood the goal to protect the town’s historic character, but was concerned over increased costs and how that would impact her business. Affordability is important to a small

business, she said, adding they want to be exempt from an HCD.

Lenora Richardson, Brush’s sister and another Speck’s owner, also said they want Speck’s exempt, with Richardson questioning nearby developments and how historic they looked. Coates said an HCD would give clear guidelines on what is expected if a property is redeveloped so that it fits into the area.

Roberta Carroll said she owns a Richmond St. home with her husband. She said they want to divide their lot and build more homes on it as a way to downsize, but said as they are included in the HCD, the new home on the severed lot would have to be approved. She also questioned the resale value of her home.

“No one wants to be told what they can do and what they can’t do with their property,” she said.

Margo Wigle told town council she has tried to sell her Dalhousie St. home but has had difficulty over possible heritage designations. She said she has tried to sell but the heritage aspect has been a hinderence.

“I’m 74 and I can’t get out of my house,” she said.

North St. resident Karen Gyorgy said her home is heritage and she bought it knowing that. She said she has done yard work without any hassles. She supported an HCD, but added there should be ways for owners to be assisted financially.

“I think there should be incentives for designated heritage homes,” said Gyorgy. “I think (an HCD) is a good thing, but if someone doesn’t want it, they should have the option to get out of it.”

Incentives are expected to be included as part of a future report to council.

Formal adoption could be as soon as June and the HCD would formally take effect in July.

The Amherstburg Community Band was formed in 1956 with Peter Allan as the first bandmaster. By the 1960s the band had 70 members and the organization was still growing. During the warmer months they could be seen participating in tattoos and festivals throughout Essex County. The band was invited to play at Expo ‘67 in Montreal as well as the Calgary Stampede in 1973. Pictured here is the Amherstburg Community Band performing at the 1963 annual band tattoo in Amherstburg. These annual tattoos could attract up to 7000 spectators.

“Survivor Day” reunites cardiac arrest patients with First Responders

By Ron Giofu

Those who suffered cardiac arrest in 2024 were reconnected with those who helped save them last week.

Essex-Windsor EMS presented its 12th annual “Survivor Day” last Friday afternoon at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts. Stories of 26 survivors were shared with the first responders who helped save them also highlighted.

The Survivor Day cases involved 63 paramedics, 69 firefighters, nine ambulance communications officers, seven Canada Border Services Agency officers and 23 civilians. Several of the paramedics, firefighters and ambulance communications officers were involved in more than one case.

One of the survivors celebrated was Linda McCort. McCort was working at Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 helping to prepare a meal for a wake when she started to feel unwell Jan. 29, 2024. After trying to refresh herself by going outside, she came back inside where she started to sweat and feel nauseous. Then, she experienced “off the chart pain” in her elbows and shoulders.

As she had always been healthy, this was unusual for her. A friend recognized the symptoms, gave her a baby aspirin then called 911. Paramedics Wayne Russelo and Keith Affleck assessed her, give her more aspirin and a 12-lead interpretation was obtained, showing McCort was having a myocardial infarction. This was sent to a cardiologist to review, and the paramedics began transporting her to the hospital.

After McCort started to complain of dizziness and nausea, her heart rhythm changed to ventricular fibrillation. She became unresponsive and her vital signs were absent. The paramedics pulled over and immediately defibrillated her heart. McCort regained consciousness, and the paramedics noted a perfusing heart rhythm.

Paramedics obtained a full set of vital signs and applied high-concentration oxygen therapy. After less than a minute, McCort’s heart went back into an irregular rhythm and no pulse was found. A second analysis was done, her heart was shocked, and CPR was initiated for a short time before she regained consciousness with a sinus rhythm.

Her story continued to be read to the crowd at Survivor Day and further stated this series of events repeated before McCort was conscious and stable enough to resume transport to the hospital. The paramedics were able to rendezvous with advanced care paramedic Inkaran Ramesh, who hopped in the truck just as Linda became unconscious without a pulse for the fourth time. A shock to the heart was delivered, McCort’s circulation returned, and she gained consciousness until the ambulance arrived at the hospital.

McCort said her family and friends didn’t believe her when she sent them a text message saying she was in the hospital after suffering a cardiac arrest. A cardiologist told her that her aorta had been completely blocked by a piece of plaque, and she was lucky to be alive. A stent was inserted to open the blockage.

After nine months of recovery, Linda is doing well and has experienced no

complications. She is grateful every day she wakes up, she said.

“I’m overwhelmed,” she said at Friday’s ceremony.

Thankful to the paramedics who saved her, McCort said she remembers most everything that happened while she was conscious.

“I’m doing great,” she said. “I’m feeling really good. I’ve had a full recovery.”

McCort said she didn’t know she was having a heart attack at the time. She encouraged people to notify others if they start feeling unwell.

“When you don’t feel good, let someone know,” she said. “You just don’t know.”

Another of the survivors was Jack Luck. Luck, 18-years-old at the time, was not feeling well at his home Feb. 8, 2024 when he suddenly passed out at his Windsor home. His father Darren rushed over, and Jack came to. He was bleeding from the back of the head and Luck was taken to a couch and given an ice pack. His blood pressure and glucose level were fine, but his breathing soon became laboured, grabbed his chest and passed out again. This time, his eyes rolled to the back of his head, he stopped breathing and had no pulse.

The family called 911 and paramedics Dawn Hodges and Ljubisa Apostolovski arrived shortly thereafter. They resuscitated Luck and restored his pulse after taking numerous measures. Then they rushed him to hospital, where his condition was stabilized and the recovery began.

Luck was in the intensive care unit for ten days and then continued to recover at Windsor Regional Hospital for the rest of the month. He was eventually transferred to the London Health Sciences Centre to have an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator put in his chest. He has since had a second one put in and takes medications that are still being fine-tuned.

According to the story read at Survivor Day, the family was told Luck’s attack was caused by myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle. Why Jack developed myocarditis is still a mystery,

meeting the paramedics that saved him.

Luck recalled thinking he had the flu and nothing more that day. He said is doing well and encouraged others to learn how to use an AED and administer CPR, noting it can be a short period of time between life or death.

The aspiring kickboxer hopes to get back into it but right now is taking care of his health.

Hodges added she and other paramedics don’t think of themselves as heroes, believing what they do is part of their jobs. She said Luck’s case stands out due to his young age.

Essex-Windsor EMS Deputy Chief Slawomir Pulcer said it was a privilege to be able to reunite everyone.

“It’s truly an honour to celebrate life and those who have defied the odds,” he said.

While honouring the survivors and thankful they are still alive, Pulcer also paid tribute to those who worked to save them.

“Together, they turned crisis into hope,” he said.

Luck’s story has an Amherstburg connection. In Nov. 2024, Essex-Windsor EMS paramedic Dave Thibodeau showed Luck and his family how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) and CPR when someone goes into cardiac arrest. The AMA Sportsmen Association gave Jack an AED, and the family has become advocates of AED awareness.

“It truly just means the world to me,” he said of being at Survivor Day and

Essex-Windsor EMS Chief Justin Lammers called it a “day of reunions” and that the survivors are a testament “to what happens when the system works.” The training that paramedics and other first responders go through was another factor in saving the lives. Lammers added they haven’t forgotten those who weren’t able to be saved. Despite their best efforts, paramedics were unable to save some people but the seven per cent survival rate locally is higher than the provincial average.

Continued on Page 13

Feeding cats and the proper way to do so focus of town council debate

By Ron Giofu

Local cat groups went to town council Monday night with concerns over the animal control/keeping of animals bylaw, with a major issue being a clause over penalties when feeding cats.

Three delegates spoke to council touting the benefits of the trap, neuter and release (TNR) program and the benefits of keeping cats looked after. In the end, town council agreed to seek amendments to the bylaw and have those registered with designated TNR groups allowed to keep doing what they are doing regarding the feeding and housing of cats. Feeding guidelines would have to be followed, with those amendments suggested by Councillor Peter Courtney.

Linda Squire told town council that when a cat colony is properly cared for, there are major benefits to a community. It becomes easier for someone who cares for cats to see if a cat needs to be spayed or neutered.

If cats go hungry, they could end up under cars, porches, decks or even at people’s doorsteps.

“I don’t think anyone wants that,” she said.

Benefits of TNR programs are universal and “it’s not just Amherstburg,” she said.

Education was a key to the issue, Squire indicated.

“I think we need to educate cat colony caregivers,” she said.

Such education could include

designated times to feed the cats and proper ways to go about it. She said local cat groups have helped lower the cat population over the years at minimal cost to the town. Squire said she would like to be able to educate more people on the issue.

“It’s better to educate,” she said.

Councillor Diane Pouget said she recalled when she was on town council in 2012 and hearing about all the issues relating to feral cats and the problems they were causing. She said complaints stopped for many years until she heard of one this past March. Pouget also believed more should be put towards spay and neuter vouchers as the current $50 is not enough for people.

Squire added it was the people improperly feeding animals that need to be looked at.

“I don’t want the bylaw gone, just target the people not doing it right,” she said.

Mayor Michael Prue said the TNR program has been a success for many years.

“The issue is the feeding of feral cats,” he said, adding skunks, rats, possums and other animals and rodents that can be attracted. Manager of licensing and enforcement Bill Tetler agreed that TNR is a separate issue.

Courtney said registering responsible people can help ward off any future issues.

Lynn Sinasac, who said she has been

helping to rescue cats since 2004, questioned why cats have been classified as wild animals when they are domesticated animals.

“The outdoors is not their natural habitat,” said Sinasac.

Cats are often abandoned by people and said people showing kindness and compassion for animals should not be penalized. People who know of cats needing help should reach out to people in the TNR community.

“Let’s all work together to come up with a humane solution,” she said.

Candace Sevelka with the WindsorEssex Community Cat Network added with registered colonies, cats can be maintained properly. Colonies can be a safe space for cats and that TNR efforts have been wildly successful.

“At the end of the day, restrictive feeding of feral populations does not work in deterring cats from our communities,” she said.

When food and shelter is not provided in conjunction with TNR, a larger problem is created, Sevelka added.

Councillor Don McArthur said the bylaw was adopted three years ago and “this is the first time we’re talking about it.” He said the bylaw can be tweaked but cautioned “throwing the baby out with the bathwater.”

McArthur believed if a person is with a legitimate TNR program, there should be the ability to feed the cats they are caring for.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The amendments will be brought back to town council for final approval.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said he is “a cat guy” and has friends who manage a colony and his family has rescued cats. He said he liked the direction of Courtney’s motion, but also called for proper education and “following of the TNR rules.” If people don’t follow the TNR rules, then there needs to be action taken.

“That’s how we’re going to protect these cats. Have them spayed and neutered, have them cared for, but the people who aren’t following best practices, there has to be ramifications,” said Gibb.

Prue said it was logical to permit people who know what they are doing regarding the care of animals to continue, but said he would not change the bylaw for people who are not part of a cat group and leave food out and allow skunks and rats to come out.

“The neighbours have a right too,” he said.

Prue said all people have to have their rights protected.

“I like the direction but I am hoping there can be some kind of list of the people here tonight who are doing it properly and will make sure there are no problems,” said Prue.

The mayor said the idea is for people to not leave food out and “we all have responsibilities.” He asked people to ensure that people who are in the groups manage their responsibility well.

Local resident responds to last week’s article regarding library’s future

Deputy Mayor Gibb’s statement that “people are assuming something is imminent” is concerning since he advised the library board in March that the town “is expected to begin searching for a new location for the Amherstburg branch in April.”

Gibb claimed his March 26 library board meeting comments stemmed from a March 25 council notice of motion, although council had not debated the notice of motion until April. Council’s subsequent motion was to obtain an administration report on future opportunities to relocate the branch. It might have been more helpful if the library had been included in the town’s space needs study last year.

Three council members’ allegations

regarding library deficiencies are disconcerting, especially because they have not answered questions about the reasons for their statements.

While Gibb mentioned it certainly has challenges with the tall shelves, which most libraries have, Councillor McArthur stated it’s not as accessible as it otherwise might be ideal. Councillor Allaire said she would like the library to have a new place “that’s accessible” and our library service is small and “not as accessible as we want it to be,” and “its challenges are inaccessibility.”

The focus of the library board’s facilities space review was space preference which should not be construed as inaccessibility.

In April, I asked the library board to provide me with any documentation

indicating there are accessibility issues at the Amherstburg library; this month, I submitted a Freedom of Information request.

For decades I have repeatedly requested a stronger commitment to accessibility, while Mayor Prue referenced the AODA and declared that they have not brought it into force and this town has not been compliant. Council needs to prioritize accessibility and respond to community

requests for washrooms in parks, shade structures, inclusive playgrounds, sidewalk repairs or replacements, rest areas, an accessible town hall, accessible voting, accessible signage, accessible parking and paved parking lots, for example.

Council also needs to justify that its decision on whether to relocate the library is based on facts and not conjecture.

—Linda Saxon Amherstburg

Resident wants resolution to issues

After reading the article about McGregor quarries winning an award for community relations, I was quite disappointed.

I state this based on my home and property being the closest to the quarry and have lived here for the past 25 years, not once have we ever been notified of a blast. Every year we have to call and complain especially about the dust sometimes on a daily basis, to the point that my entire property has been covered in a thick film of dirt. The noise starts early and continues throughout the

day, especially in the warmer months. There are three settling ponds on the west side of quarry which happen to be adjacent to our property and smell due to the sulphuric water being pumped.

Unfortunately I have complained about these issues with little or no mitigation. I look forward to sitting down with Walker Aggregates and discussing how to really achieve community relations.

—Lee

Seguin Amherstburg

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Leardi gives his thoughts on Ontario budget

By Ron Giofu

The 2025 Ontario budget has recently been revealed and the Progressive Conservative Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for the area is touting it as a good budget for the region and province.

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi believes his government’s budget is a positive one with some components that are key for this area. Taxes are being lowered for the wine, beer and spirits industry, something Leardi said is “hypertaxed.”

That industry still has to pay their share of taxes, but Leardi said the tax burden is less.

“We’re lowering the taxes so they can be more competitive with their U.S. counterparts,” said Leardi. “That’s good for the wine industry and the craft beer industry in Essex County.”

Leardi said he put out a survey a few months ago and the most popular reply was not having new taxes. According to the Essex MPP, Premier Doug Ford and his governments have not introduced new taxes since 2018.

“We are not introducing any new taxes again in this budget,” he said.

A nurse practitioner-led clinic in Kingsville has rostered 1,200 people and Leardi said his goal is to have another 1,200 people rostered at another Essex County clinic.

Tariffs and trade with the United States was a big issue during the provincial election campaign earlier this year and Leardi said $9 billion in taxes is being deferred to help counterbalance that. He said businesses such as manufacturing and other industries may face a “cash crunch” due to tariffs, so the province is delaying the taxes.

“We’re not forgiving the taxes,” said Leardi. “We are deferring them for six months. We’re making sure businesses have the cash they need to get through this very disruptive tariff tit-for-tat.”

Intra-provincial free trade is also being welcomed in Ontario, the PC MPP stated.

“Doug Ford is tearing all of those barriers down,” said Leardi. “Just ask for it.”

More and more people are being connected with primary care, he added, and there is also funding for “surgical centres.” He said those centres can deal with various procedures, citing cataract surgeries as an example.

“You don’t have to go to the hospital,” he said. “They’ll book you and get you done in weeks. You don’t have to wait months.”

Everything covered by OHIP ten years ago is still covered today, he maintained.

“If anyone tells you healthcare is being privatized, they are dead wrong,” said Leardi. “Everything covered by OHIP is still covered and more.”

According to Leardi, the same holds true for education as he stated people who state there are cuts are “flat wrong.” “They are totally wrong.”

Overall, Leardi believed his party’s budget is good for Ontarians.

“We’re lowering taxes and we’re helping businesses,” he said. “This trade dispute with (U.S. President) Donald Trump is going to cause disruptions. The Ontario government is ready for it. We have a strong mandate from the voters.”

County council endorses regional health team

By Fred Groves

Essex County health providers are part of an integrated network and last week at the regular session of County Council, a presentation was made by the Windsor-Essex Ontario Health Team (WEOHT).

According to Dr. Ken Blanchette, the CEO of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit, it was an opportunity for county councillors to learn more about the WEOHT.

“There are a lot of questions and unknowns about the WEOHT and we would like to demonstrate what we do as an organization,” said Blanchette.

Blanchette is the co-chair of the group along with Erie Shores Health Care (Leamington Hospital) CEO Kristin Kennedy.

Blanchette explained that there are over 40 different health care service providers that are now part of WEOHT including the Essex-Windsor EMS and the Amherstburg Family Health Team.

“It’s been several years since we formulated this group and our goal surrounds patient navigation, assisted care, effectiveness within the system and no duplication of services,” said Blanchette.

Another reason for the presentation to county

council was the introduction of the WEOHT Executive Director, former Windsor City Councillor Joyce Zuk.

“We have begun to embark on a bit of an Essex County tour where we are meeting with them to update what the mandate of the WEOHT is,” said Zuk.

There are 58 Ontario Health Teams now in the province and basically what they do is replace the old Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) which was responsible for the regional health care administration.

Zuk referred to health care in the area as “fragmented.”

Blanchette went on to say that Essex County Council will be joining the health care partners and that county CAO Sandra Zwiers will be on the WEOHT steering committee.

A presentation by Blanchette and Zuk noted that the Ontario Health Teams are meant as a new way to organize and deliver health services by bringing multiple health care providers into one collaborative team.

“We have looked at areas where we really need help,” said Blanchette.

Priorities include respect and dignity of patients, empathy and compassion, accountability, transparency and equity engagement.

Grilling for the Mission

The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission held a barbecue at Sobeys last weekend. Volunteers were outside the Amherstburg store during the lunch hour Friday through Sunday. Volunteer board members Shannon Dobson and Kim Curtis were busy Sunday morning.

Local boy trying to win Jeff Corwin Jr. Ranger Competition

By Ron Giofu

A boy from Amherstburg is hoping to meet a wildlife conservationist and learn from him.

Four-year-old Emmett Parker is part of the Jeff Corwin Jr. Ranger competition, with the grand prize being learning from Corwin, a picture in “Ranger Rick” magazine and a $20,000 cash prize.

“It’s an opportunity for kids 4-12,” explained Kelly Parker, Emmett’s mom.

Community votes are key at this point, she explained.

“He is right now at the stage of the competition when he needs local support and votes online,” said Parker.

The current round of voting ends Thursday, May 29 and Emmett has to make the top 20 to make it to the next round. As of press time, Emmett was in ninth place.

Should Emmett advance, the next round of voting runs from May 29-June 5. Future stages of voting would be from June 5-12, June 12-19, June 19-26 and so on.

The finals are July 18-24 and his family hopes he makes it.

“He’s the only kid from Amherstburg that has made it this far,” said Parker. “People can vote daily.”

Emmett and his family, which includes Kelly, his dad Jeff and little brother Callum, have helped build habitats for endangered species in the area. They are aiming to help fox snakes, monarch butterflies, barn owls and bats with Emmett’s favourite plant being the prickly pear cactus.

Emmett has also been a student at Natural Pathways Forest School in Harrow and Farm School in Cottam.

“Emmett embodies curiosity and

enthusiasm for learning about wildlife,” she said.

The Parker family became aware of the Jeff Corwin Jr. Ranger competition through a biologist with the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP).

Parker said the family were looking at a property to build a house on and the biologist they were working with helped encourage them to look into the competition.

People can vote for Emmett at www. jr-ranger.org/2025/emmett-3120.

Historic John R. Park Homestead re-opened after renovations

By Fred Groves

In 1842 John and Amelia Park built their home along the banks of Lake Erie near Harrow.

A special ceremony was held last Thursday morning to acknowledge the restoration of the John R. Park Homestead, which annually attracts up to 20,000 visitors.

A year and over $1.5 million after it was determined that restoration work was needed, the doors of the stately home were re-opened and tours are once again being given.

“The work being done here is not about preservation, it’s about passion,” said Amherstburg Councillor

Molly Allaire.

The John R. Park Homestead is owned by the Essex Region Conservation Authority of which Allaire is the chair.

Among those making significant contributions to the restoration is the Stephanie and Barry Zekelman Foundation.

“We are so deeply proud of our support to the Homestead,” said Amber Hunter representing the Foundation. “It’s more than a museum, it’s a living classroom.”

The Ontario Museum Association has dubbed May as Museum Month in the province and the Homestead continues to educate visitors of all ages

on what life was like in rural Ontario back in the 1800’s.

Tim Byrne is the CAO of ERCA and it was his keen eye a few years ago that revealed that the main house at the homestead was in need of repairs.

Along with the Zekelman’s, the Toldo Foundation was and still is a major financial supporter.

“The Toldo Foundation sat and listened to Tim Bryne and his passion for this location and we could not say no,” said Anthony Toldo.

Allaire noted that when work to do the renovations was started, it was discovered that more restoration was needed.

Terry Patterson is the chairman of the Essex Region Conservation Foundation (ERCF), which prides

itself on helping to raise money for such projects as the John R. Park Homestead.

Thanking the generous donors and those who were part of Giving Tuesday, Patterson said, “you breathe new life into our history.”

Another organization that has ties to the historic site is the Friends of the John R. Park Homestead, which has 80 volunteers and contribute 3,500 hours of their time each year. Recently a long-time member of that group, LaSalle Councillor Sue Desjarlais, passed away.

“The Homestead was a special place for Sue. We are dedicating the bench on the porch to her,” said Allaire. For more information on the John R. Park Homestead, call 519-738-2029.

Donations still welcome for this Friday’s “Relay for Life” at Villanova

By Ron Giofu

A large fundraiser to support those with cancer and cancer research is returning to St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School this Friday.

Relay for Life starts Friday afternoon (May 30) and runs into the evening, with activities throughout the day. Sofia Borrowman, a Grade 11 student at St. Thomas of Villanova, is a co-captain of the committee helping to organize it with Michela La Porta. Borrowman is participant chair. She oversees registration and fundraising, as well as various other things.

“Relay For Life is a fundraiser held by schools all over Canada. It is run through the Canadian Cancer Society, and all of

the funds go towards helping people who are battling or have battled cancer,”

Borrowman explained. “Most of the funds that we raise stay local to help fund ride programs to and from treatments, hospital and hotel stays, a help hotline, and many other useful resources for people battling cancer.”

Borrowman said it is a nine-hour event that runs from 1-10 p.m. She said it starts with a “Survivor Walk” where people who have overcome cancer or those currently fighting the disease can walk around the track.

After the opening ceremony and “Survivor Walk,” Borrowman said there are several activities such as therapy dogs, inflatables, zoomba, Kona Ice, Dairy DeLite, and more.

A luminary ceremony remembering those who have fought cancer or those still fighting caps the night, with that starting at 9 p.m.

“It’s a real eye-opening part of the night,” Borrowman said of the luminary ceremony. “This is the most important part of our event because it brings the entire community together and reminds us why we are doing this.”

About 600 students from within the Catholic high school have signed up to be part of it. Borrowman said the committee was formed in January but started fundraising in earnest in April.

Villanova’s fundraising goal as a school is $60,000 and they have already raised over $46,000 online.

“When Villanova hosted its last Relay

For Life event in 2023, we crushed our goal of $50,000 when we raised over $72,000 as a school community,” she said. “This would not have been possible without the support of local businesses and families in our community. In order to reach and surpass our goal this year, we are counting on donations from people and businesses in our community that are willing to donate. We’re always looking for people in our community who want to donate.”

Individuals or businesses can visit www.relayforlife.ca, search “View All School Events,” look under Ontario and find St. Thomas of Villanova. People can also Google “Relay for Life Villanova.”

“We kind of call this a party with a purpose,” said Borrowman.

Woofa-Roo Pet Festival returning this weekend at Libro Centre

By Ron Giofu

The annual festival geared to four-legged friends returns this weekend.

The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival returns to the Libro Centre in Amherstburg this Saturday and Sunday. Organizing committee chair Lorene Clayton said the event will feature both returning events and new events.

“The fan favourites are back,” she said.

Those include dock diving, dog agility, lure coursing, the Windsor Police K-9 unit and dog racing among other events and attractions.

Among the new events this year are field events for sporting dogs, including presentations by Erie Shores Retrievers. Clayton said they will be demonstrating what dogs can do in the field, noting hunters may be particularly interested in what is presented. She said dogs have to be intelligent, engaged and disciplined to

be able to do some of what is asked of them.

Presentations are at 12 noon Saturday and 10 a.m. Sunday.

“I think there is a huge population that will really love to see this,” she said.

Elite Shed Dogs will also be presenting. The dogs trained through that organization help find antlers that are shed by deer, elk or other types of animals and retrieve them. The antlers are eventually turned into dog chews.

“They are doing a demonstration Saturday at 2 p.m.,” said Clayton.

The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival will benefit seven different charities or rescues in the area, including SNAP for Cats, Southshore Pony Club, The Runaways Farm, Tiny Paws Rabbit Rescue, St. John Ambulance Therapy Dogs, the Cat Assistance Team (CAT) and the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society. Tiny Paws Rabbit Rescue is a new addition this year, Clayton added.

LaSalle Night Markets make their return

By Ron Giofu

The LaSalle Night Markets have made their return.

The first market of the season was held Sunday evening at the LaSalle Civic Centre on Malden Road. Jordyn Rafuse, supervisor of recreation for the Town of LaSalle, was happy with how things went.

“It’s going really well,” she said. “It’s well attended.”

There were approximately 80 vendors, which compares well to what they usually get. Rafuse said they were from all over Essex County and Windsor and featured food, artisans, produce, local businesses and much more.

“I think it’s great to be able to provide this to our residents,” said Rafuse. “People can enjoy the music, shop and eat. Ensuring that our residents are happy is good enough for us.”

Rafuse noted that while a lot of LaSalle residents attend, people from around the region turn out as well. Vendors from Amherstburg, Windsor, Essex and other areas have their own customers that come out to enjoy what is being sold as well as the market itself.

“We definitely get a good variety of

residents,” said Rafuse.

The LaSalle Night Market returned last Sunday evening at the LaSalle Civic Centre off of Malden Road.

The LaSalle Night Market runs the last Sunday of every month from 4-8 p.m. Rafuse pointed out they are scheduled for the LaSalle Civic Centre from May through August while the September market will be moved to the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing.

The next big event in LaSalle is the Strawberry Festival, which runs June 5-8 at the Vollmer Centre. There will be midway rides, food, artisans, vendors, entertainment and more over that fourday period.

Rafuse said more events that the Town of LaSalle offers are found on the municipality’s website at www.lasalle.ca. There is an event calendar that she said is updated even with third party events on it.

Clayton said since 2013, the Woofa-Roo Pet Festival has raised over $100,000 for various charities and rescues.

“We just find it really satisfying. That’s the beautiful part of this festival,” she said. “We’re quite proud of this.”

The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival is earlier this year, with Clayton noted they are trying out a new date. She said last year’s event was in the summer and high heat caused a day of dog racing to be eliminated.

“We’ll see how it goes,” Clayton said of the new date. “We’ll try it out.”

Volunteers came out in droves this year and she added they are all appreciated. All of the sponsors are appreciated as well, she pointed out.

Admission is $10 per person, $5 for youth ages 6-16 with children five and under free. Hours are 9:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. both days.

Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 welcomes hundreds of bikes as Ride for Dad stop

Continued from Page 1

“We want to grow the ride to where we had it in the past,” said Miles.

Getting checked is a major message they want to give men, particularly if they are over 40-years-old.

Miles pointed out his father’s contributions to the Motorcycle Ride for Dad but didn’t get checked. About a yearand-a-half ago, he was diagnosed with inoperable prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer impacts one in eight men, he added, and people can live for an extended period of time if they catch it early.

“It affects men but it also affects their families,” he said. “Men have wives, sons and daughters. Their entire family is impacted.”

The ride is on motorcycles because it draws attention to them and their message, Miles noted.

Encouraging other men to get checked is also a big component of the ride.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 has been the first stop on the ride for a long time, Miles added, and organizers appreciate what the Legion does year after year.

For more information on the Windsor Ride for Dad, please visit https:// ridefordad.ca/chapter/windsor.

More photos from Sunday morning’s Ride for Dad stop in Amherstburg are featured on the River Town Times’ social media pages.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to books.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, this week your dreams might be a tool for gaining insight on what you want to accomplish. Although dreams can’t predict the future, they may reveal some of your subconscious desires.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Follow your instincts this week, Taurus, even if you’re more prone to reason than whimsy. Let the chips fall where they may and go with the flow.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

This week can be all about feeding your mind, Gemini. Walk around a bookstore and pick up the first book that catches your eye, regardless of its subject matter.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Something may be worrying you lately, Cancer, but you can’t exactly put your finger on it. Talk about your feelings with others as another person may have a different perspective.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, seize an opportunity to pursue the things that you want most of all. Use this week to map out a plan and then get started on all of the steps before you reach your goal.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Check out ways that you can advance your career or education this week. The energy around you is favoring growth, so now is the time to take advantage and learn a new skill.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Others trust your opinions because your intuition tends to be spot on, Libra. When a friend comes to you this week asking for some advice, you will not hesitate.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Use your creativity to make things happen this week, Scorpio. This may not produce a finished product, but it could be about an innovative way to approach a task or problem.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Figure out some new ways to expand your horizons this week, Sagittarius. Identify means to personal growth, including educational opportunities.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, it is important to step out of your routine every so often to increase your knowledge and expand your horizons. This is one of those weeks to do so.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Are you satisfied with your career, Aquarius? If you have been mulling a career change, this could be the week to start moving your chess pieces around.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, don’t worry too much about the changes that lie ahead this week. You have a more adaptable nature than you might realize. As changes come your way, embrace them.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MAY 25 - Roman Reigns, Wrestler (40)

MAY 26 - Stevie Nicks, Singer (77)

MAY 27 - Lily-Rose Depp, Actress (26)

MAY 28 - Colbie Caillat, Singer (40)

MAY 29 - Mel B, Singer (50)

MAY 30 - Idina Menzel, Actress (54)

MAY 31 - Clint Eastwood, Director (95)

Four separate accidents keep police busy

Traffic accidents late last week and into the weekend kept officers with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment busy.

A three-vehicle crash at County Road 10 (Middle Side Road) and Concession 3 North occurred May 22 at approximately 9:05 a.m. One of the involved vehicles ended up in the ditch. Police say there were no injuries to any of the involved drivers and two of the vehicles were towed from the scene due to the damage. One of the drivers was issued a Provincial Offences Notice as a result of the accident, police add.

•A vehicle versus hydro pole accident was reported May 22 at roughly 9:45 p.m. on County Road 50 near Collison Side Road. According to police, the single-vehicle accident resulted from a driver swerving to avoid an animal that ran into the roadway. The driver lost control and struck a hydro pole, police say. The involved driver was not injured.

Police add the road was closed for a few hours to allow Hydro One to

By

repair the damage to the hydro pole. The vehicle was towed from the scene. There were no charges laid.

•A two-vehicle accident occurred May 25 at approximately 7 p.m. at the intersection of Fort St. and Forhan St. Police say one of the drivers suffered non-life threatening injuries as a result of the crash and was transported to hospital by ambulance. Both involved vehicles were towed from the scene. One of the drivers was issued a Provincial Offences Notice as a result of the accident, police add.

•Officers attended a single-vehicle accident May 25 at approximately 8:20 p.m. in the 7000 block of Alma St., between Howard Ave. and Concession 8 North. The vehicle had gone into the ditch. The driver and his three passengers were not injured, police say. The vehicle was towed from the scene. There were no charges laid.

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

Confidence a big part of Dare2B Challenged event

By Fred Groves

On your mark, get set…celebrate.

The starting line at this year’s Dare2B Challenged welcomed over 300 participants Sunday morning and once again it was a reason to be calm, show courage and above all, confidence.

An annual event to celebrate physical fitness for girls and women, for the third consecutive year it was held at Amherstburg’s Holiday Beach Conservation Area.

“I have a four-year-old daughter and I want to be a positive force in her life. It shows I want to be active and healthy,” said Windsor’s Ashley Kovacs.

Kovacs ran the 5km through the picturesque park and acknowledged that the event is an opportunity for girls and women of all ages and abilities to keep moving and support each other.

“I did this last year. I had fun and I like the female empowerment,” she added.

Dare 2B Challenged was started in 2020 by Barb Pollard. For the past three years it has been in Amherstburg and before that, at the Harrow Soccer Complex.

“It started in my back yard to keep people active and fit,” said Pollard who was the race director on Sunday.

The event is meant to provide girls and

women with opportunities to explore new parts of themselves, evolving and striving towards fitness goals.

“There is a need for sense of community and women coming here. This is a place where we can inspire each other,” added Pollard.

All the proceeds went to Girls Organizing and Learning Sports (GOALS) which is a local non-profit group that helps underserved girls participate in sports in Windsor-Essex.

“I do it to support the cause,” said Harrow’s Kaylee Allen.

Allen did the 5km walk and was joined by her eight-year-old dog Buddy.

Former world champion boxer

Kara Ro who now teaches MMA said that GOALS played a big part in her daughter being able to play football.

“We really want to keep young girls involved in sports and turn them into leaders,” said Ro.

Life coach and author Kristi Simons got the participants ready prior to the 9 a.m. start and said Dare 2B Challenged gives everyone a chance to celebrate each other and to come out of their own comfort zone.

“Today there is so much we need to be celebrating,” said Simons.

Sunday’s event also included a

90-minute outdoor fitness class led by Movati Athletic of Amherstburg.

Jessica Laba-Kaczmarek had lots to celebrate as she won the 10k for the second straight year, leading 66 runners with a time of 41:44. Amherstburg’s Kelly Kennedy was not far behind, with a time of 49:01 and Sarah Wong was eighth at 51:10.

Megan Prsa was first across the finish line in the 5km at 21:47. Amherstburg’s Marija Lelas was sixth at 25:53 and Violet Greco came in 12th at 26:26. Taking the 5km walk was Amy Poole at 44:18 and Bonnie Desjardins of Amherstburg was ninth at 48:13.

North Star girls slo-pitch team enters WECSSAA “AA” playoffs

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves started the playoffs Monday afternoon against a powerful St. Joseph Lasers team. The Wolves came in the game with a regular season record of 3-5 in the WECSSAA County Division while St. Joseph was 8-1 during the regular season.

The Wolves won Monday’s game 18-1 to advance to the next round of playoffs.

North Star finished the regular season with two games last Tuesday at Co-An Park in McGregor, both against different opponents.

The first game of the day was against

the Cardinal Carter Cougars. North Star kept the game close, but the Cougars came out on top 15-11. Cardinal Carter finished with a 3-5 record.

The Wolves came back shortly after that game and went up against the Sandwich Sabres. Sandwich ended up winning the game 26-14. The Sabres concluded the regular season 6-2.

“We played twice today. We fought hard both games,” said North Star’s Carsyn Atkinson after last Tuesday afternoon’s game versus Sandwich. “They were both close games. We want to get to the playoffs and do well there.”

Atkinson believed the Wolves have

good skilled players but they had to be more confident hitting the ball and do so with more consistency and power. She said they hit the ball well in practice but had to bring that into games.

“We had a pretty solid season,” Atkinson stated.

The North Star team is relatively young, with four senior players. There is one Grade 11 players with the remainder being in either Grade 10 or Grade 9. Atkinson said the team has improved throughout the season.

“It’s good to see this team is in good hands for the next four years,” said Atkinson.

Local high school baseball games busy on the diamond last week

By Ron Giofu

Two local high school baseball teams were busy on the diamond last week.

The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats capped the regular season and entered the playoffs on a roll.

The Wildcats had a 7-1 record in the WECSSAA Cullen/Soulliere Division, tied with the St. Anne Saints for first place.

The lone regular season loss was to the Riverside Stingers in their second game but they closed the regular season with six consecutive games.

The WECSSAA playoffs opened last Tuesday in cold and wet conditions at

Mic Mac Park in Windsor. St. Thomas of Villanova had three games and won them all.

Villanova went up against the Massey Mustangs in the first game of the day.

The Wildcats were the top seed and the Mustangs were the eighth seed and it was the top seed that came out on top, by a final score of 13-3.

The second game of the day was versus the Cardinal Carter Cougars. That was a closer game but the Wildcats pulled out their second win of the day, this one by an 8-7 final score. Round 3 was against the Saints. The regular season records may have been

identical but the final score of this game was not as the Wildcats won the baseball game 10-4.

St. Thomas of Villanova was back on the diamond Friday, again at Mic Mac Park. Their first game of the day was against the Riverside Stingers while they also played St. Anne in the second.

The season didn’t end the way Villanova wanted it to by the time the tournament ended late Friday afternoon.

In the WECSSAA Bertoia Division, the North Star Wolves had three games scheduled last week but they only ended up playing one.

The first game ended with a 10-1 decision for Vista. The loss dropped the Wolves record to 2-3.

“We could have gotten more hits,” said North Star’s Graham Evans. Evans said they have to clean up their errors.

“Our head was not in the game. We’ve got to work on it and work harder in practice,” he said.

The Wolves were supposed to be in action last Wednesday afternoon on the road against L’Essor and again Thursday afternoon in Essex, but both games were cancelled. There was no word as of press time as to whether either game will be rescheduled.

Community Calendar

THURSDAY, MAY 29-SATURDAY, MAY 31

HOPE OF ST. JOSEPH YARD SALE; The Hope of St. Joseph

Shelter Inc. is bringing back its large yard sale for one weekend only. Money raised will support girls and boys shelters managed by Father Donato in D.R. Congo. Runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. Held at home of Mary and Marc Beneteau, 3560 Middle Side Road (County Road 10).

SUNDAY, JUNE 1

TRIVIA NIGHT; Presented by the Marsh Collection Society at Shooter’s Roadhouse (17 Sandwich St. N.) starting at 7 p.m. It’s the last trivia night before the summer! Cost $25 per team (maximum five players per team). This month’s theme is pictures. Contact Meg to register at 519-736-9191 or research@marshcollection.org.

SUNDAY, JUNE 1

GUEST SPEAKER; Andrew Innerd will be the guest speaker at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda, 2953 Olinda Side Road in Ruthven. Topic is “Earth, Wind, Fire, Water – Four Lessons from a Climate Change Scientist.” All welcome.

SATURDAY, JUNE 7

HIGH TEA PARTY; Hosted by St. John The Baptist CWL from 12-3 p.m. at Columbus Community Hall (190 Richmond St). Tickets are $25. Available at the St. John the Baptist Church Parish Office or by calling June McManemy at 519-736-5078. There will be a silent auction, hat contest, photo op, games & prizes as well as delicious sandwiches, scones, desserts, tea and punch.

SUNDAY, JUNE 8

MCGREGOR MUSIC FESTIVAL; 34th annual festival runs at Co-

An Park in McGregor from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Music running throughout the day with eight local bands. Gates open at 10 a.m., cost to enter $5 per person. Proceeds support Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation. Event also features car show, pig auction, raffles, door prizes. Rib dinner from 4:30-6:30 p.m., $20 per person.

FRIDAY, JUNE 13

MUSIC OFF THE BACK PORCH; Held behind the Park House Museum, 214 Dalhousie St., in Amherstburg. Performances by Monique Belanger and Don McArthur & Nancy Roy. Donations to the Park House welcome, bring your own lawn chair. Weather permitting. For info, call 519-736-2511 or visit www. parkhousemuseum.com.

SATURDAY, JUNE 14

RIBS & RAGTIME; Held at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, 277 King St., from 4-8 p.m. Celebration of 50 years of Black history education and honoring composer Shelton Brooks. Entertainment by Black Orchid. Tickets $60, available through www.amherstburgfreedom.org.

THURSDAY, JUNE 19

90TH ANNIVERSARY; St. Clement Catholic Women’s League, McGregor will celebrate 90 years of service. Mass will be held at 5 p.m. followed by dinner at the Columbian Club. For dinner tickets ($50), call Annette at 519-990-6542 or e-mail cathymelochecwl@ gmail.com before June 9.

ONGOING

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hubs Windsor-Essex presenting mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs every Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people ages 12-15. The House is located at 320 Richmond St. (Amherstburg Community Hub). For details, call 519-800-8640.

GIBSON GALLERY EVENTS; Latest exhibit is “Student Pix - From their Lens” and it runs from May 22-June 1. Features students from the Greater Essex County District School Board. Artist reception May 31 from 2:30-4 p.m. Free admission, donations accepted. The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Open Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers to clean, wash dishes and provide maintenance. Cleaners required Monday-Friday from 2-4 p.m. to mop floors and to clean bathrooms, countertops, tables, carts, etc. Dishwashers needed Monday-Friday 1-3 p.m. to wash dishes, pots and pans. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday as needed for maintenance of the building. Commitment is one day or more per week, on a regular basis. If interested or for more info, send e-mail to aburgmission@yahoo.com.

FREE COMMUNITY MEALS; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come every Thursday at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. Everyone welcome. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is also showing “The Chosen” every Thursday at 6:30 p.m., after the meal. Free to attend, everyone

ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. Meetings held at The Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@ gmail.com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild wants to invite guests/new members to attend our monthly meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s Hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North Woodslee at 7 p.m. Our purpose is to promote and encourage the art of quilting in Essex County. 519-726-5869

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD EVENTS; Charity bingo every Wednesday night at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Wednesday to order call 519-734-8575. Dinner from 4:30-6 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road. For info, call 519-734-8575.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. still has bingos every Thursday night and fish fries (with chicken as well) on Friday nights. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. Parties every second Tuesday at 3 p.m. except in July and August.

SERVICE TIME CHANGE; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., has changed the times of their Sunday service. There is now one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary needs, each meal comes with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 per meal. Call 519-7365471 for details.

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

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

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” and help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood. com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

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

ACS FOOD BANK; Curbside pickup at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9 a.m.-12 noon. Closed Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood.com.

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

AMHERSTBURG

CLASSIFIEDS

ANNOUNCEMENTS from $25 +tax WORD ADS from $15 +tax

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

FOR RENT

3-BEDROOM UPPER

DUPLEX FOR RENT IN AMHERSTBURG, Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1200 sq. ft. Upper-Duplex in quiet neighbourhood on Queen Street. Open-concept Living-Room and DiningArea with Cathedral-Ceiling. Carpet and Ceramic-Tile throughout. Open-concept Kitchen with Island includes: Fridge, Stove and Dishwasher. Includes: In Apartment Laundry-Room with Washer and Dryer Provided. 3 Bedrooms with lots of Closet-Space. 4 Piece Bathroom. Central Forced-Air Conditioning and High-Efficiency Gas Furnace. Includes Private Driveway for Parking One Vehicle. No-Smoking. Private access to Your Own Deck, within shared Rear-Yard. $2,125 Monthly, which Includes Utilities. Minimum 1 year Lease. Apply with: References, Income Verification & Credit Checks. First and Last Months Rent Required. By Appointment Only, call 519-736-4473 between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and leave a detailed message.

Deadline for Classified Advertising is Monday at 12 noon.

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

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

FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise. Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.

FOR RENT

CALDWELL TOWERS; 1 or 2 bedroom apartments for rent. From 1240 sq. ft. Underground parking. Wonderful views of the river and lake. Walking distance to downtown. Next to the Walmart plaza. Available July 1, utilities included. Call 519-736-7295

WANTED TO BUY BUYING ALL -GOLD +SILVER JEWELRYALL COINS- $$$- 59 years Experience NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATESFREE ADVICE-HONEST + DEPENDABLE SERVICE

“ARE YOU SAVED?”

That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110

LANDSCAPING

MAJOR LEAGUE LAWNS; Weekly Lawn Cutting & Trimming. Shrub & Hedge Trimming. Yard Cleanup. Core Aeration. FREE ESTIMATES. Call 226-7244027

YARD SALE

MULTI FAMILY YARD SALE. 522 Texas Road, near 2nd concession. Saturday, May 31, rain or shine 8am-3pm

EVENT SPACE FOR RENT

HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-7366096 or Doris @ 519-7348154

Friday May 30 Kof C Hall 190 Richmond st Amherstburg 9am-4pm-Cash Paid for ALL GOLD,SILVERJewelry All COINS; Canada, USA, Loose coins to complete collections World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money FREE ESTIMATES NO OBLIGATION **Locally Owned** 59 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS Always Paying MoreThan the Expensive Brochures you get in the mail from the Quebec company Best to deal Local $$$. House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones

B.A.B.Ed. 519-818-1805

BAKE & CRAFT SALE

Saturday, May 31- Sunday, June 1, 9am-4pm. Rain or shine. 1505 Goodview St.

POWER WASHING

&

PEST CONTROL

DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988 . Making your home look new again. 519-7362448.

YARD SALE

CHARITY YARD SALE. May 29,30, 31, 9 to 5. 3560 County Road 10.

Jan Martlin

June 30, 1960 - April 20,2025

Daughter of Joseph Martlin (1924-2011) and Helen Martlin(Palmer, 1928-2017) owners of “THE MEADOWS TAVERN” (1972-1989) passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025 while fulfilling her dreams. Predeceased by brother Wayne Martlin. Survived by Steve Martlin (B.C.) and niece Britney (B.C.). Proud member and supporter of many organizations. Former owner of F.M. Industries 1990 with a dedication to protecting the earth and wildlife, left a legacy that will continue for decades. She enjoyed travelling, discovering new places, music and the arts. Her love of cooking was a joy to watch as she experimented in new cuisine while entertaning friends with stories and laughter. An avid reader and a fan of James Bond with a penchant for wine. Her qualities and willingness to help are beyond mere words. A deep connection with family, friends and community will be sadly missed.

Forever in our hearts

Bondy, Lloyd B.

October 1, 1936 - May 17, 2025

We lost another good one when Lloyd passed away (surrounded by: his loving family.

Husband of Judy (Ruthven) DeHetre: son of (deceased) Edward and Jane (Bezaire) Bondy, brother of: (deceased) Ernie (Shirley) Bondy, Jeannette (Nelson) Hamlin, Annette (Bob) Meloche/ Survived by 3 children: Edward (Sandra) Bondy, Sherry (David) Loghran and Peggy Winch. Step-father of 3 children: Debbie (John Beaulieu) Alexander, Colleen (Yvan) Mantha and Herb (Sandra, deceased; Donna Philps) Ruthven. Pipi of 6 grandchildren and Great Grandfather and Step Great Grandfather of 8. Lloyd is survived by many caring and loving nieces and nephews.

Lloyd was a man who loved his work as an equipment operator and previously as a truck driver. He was the elected Reeve of the former Anderdon Township into the mid-eighties. Lloyd would tell anyone how proud he was of bringing together the participating parties that made Ranta Marina happen.

Lloyd bravely lived with Parkinsons Disease since 2005. The family would like to thank the very kind and caring staff of Richmond Terrace who cared for him for four years and again to the great staff at Royal Oak Nursing Home in Kingsville where he spent one and a half years.

At Lloyd’s request Cremation has taken place and there will be no burial services. In lieu of flowers, your donation to the Parkinsons Society would be appreciated. A Celebration of Life will take place at on AMA Sportsmen’s Club 736-5706, Sunday, June 1th, 1-5 PM 468 Lowe Side Rd.

Wildcats make the finals

The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats girls (pictured) and boys soccer teams both made it to the WECSSAA “AAA” finals last week. Unfortunately for both teams, the Wildcats fell short in their bids for titles. The girls team lost a 4-1 decision to the Holy Names Knights last Wednesday evening at St. Clair College. The boys were in action last Thursday night against St. Anne but lost 1-0 in a game played at Holy Names. RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

Essenpreis, Michael Edward Obituaries

Olesevich, Mary Gay (nee Brush)

April 24, 1937 – May 25, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our cherished mother Mary on Sunday May 25th, 2025 at the age of 88. Reunited with her loving husband Dan (1983). Cherished mother to Mark and Kristine (Ted). Loving and proud grandmother to Meaghan (Jack) and Alexander. Loving great grandmother to Violet and Atlas. Sister to Garnet (Jean), Wayne (late Nancy) and predeceased by Bernadette (Ervin), Ervin (Carol), Betty (Bruce), Doris (Tobe), Robert (Audrey) and Dave (Gail). She was sister-inlaw to Nellie (late Nick), Betty (Harvey), Marleen (late Robert), and Wilma (late Joe). Will also be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends. The family would like to thank the wonderful and dedicated staff members from Extendicare Southwood Lakes.

Mary was a devoted educator to the Windsor Separate Catholic School Board for 33+ years. She enjoyed working with friends at the Ouellette Campus Hospital Coffee bar and dedicated many volunteer hours to the Windsor Hospice.

As per Gay’s request there will be a private family funeral service. A Celebration of life will happen later this summer, date to be determined. In memory of Mary, donations may be made to The Hospice of Windsor and Diabetes Canada. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at wwwjhsuttonfuneral.ca.

Passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family after a short battle with glioblastoma at the age of 47. Beloved husband to Shannon Buchner. Loving father to Afften and Lauren. Son to the late Arthur “Rocky” and Paula Essenpreis. Brother to Caitlyn (Dan) Knoebel. Brother-in-law to Heather Whitten (Peter Perrone), Kathleen (Scott) Pearce and Mark (Katie) Buchner. Uncle to Brayden, Lana, Sydney, Claire, William, Dustin, Shannon and Ian. Michael will as well be missed by many extended family and friends.

Mike was a dedicated and hardworking man, successfully running businesses and managing real estate alongside his wife, Shannon. He was also a welleducated mechanical engineer. Those who knew him will remember his kindness and patience, qualities that defined him.

Mike had a love for boating and cherished life on the water. But above all, his greatest joy came from being a father. He was his daughters’ biggest supporter and a proud spectator at their volleyball games.

He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Special thanks to Erie Shores Hospice for their care and compassion shown towards Mike.

Arrangements entrusted to James H. Sutton Funeral Home (401 Sandwich St. S, Amherstburg, 519- 7362134). Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life, and funeral mass will take place at a later date. In memory of Mike, donations may be made to The Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada “In Memory of Mike Essenpreis” Page. Online condolences and cherished memories may be shared at www.jhsuttonfuneral.ca