2024 Year in Review

JANUARY

•A Mayor’s Levee is held at the Columbian Club Hall in McGregor. Mayor Michael Prue and members of town council welcomed the public to help ring in the new year.

•Essex County dipped into a special reserve fund to keep the 2024 tax hike to below five per cent. County council opted to take $402,000 from its rate stabilization fund to hold the 2024 increase to 4.95 per cent.

•The Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA) recognized its Conservation Award winners. Six organizations and individuals were honoured “for their contributions to creating a sustainable future of the Windsor-Essex-Pelee Island region” as part of ERCA’s 50th annual general meeting. 

•A fire on Richmond St. caused what the Amherstburg Fire Department estimated at $400,000 in damages. Deputy Chief Dan Monk said they got the call around 3:30 a.m. One neighbouring home suffered damage.

•An Amherstburg resident was one of four winners Canada-wide of groceries for a year. Amber Turner won Sobeys’ “Scene+ Groceries for a Year” contest, worth $14,000. 

•Amherstburg town council approved its 2024 budget. The budget calls for a 6.44 per cent (later shaved to 6.22 per cent) tax increase, one that a series of speakers asked be reduced further. Some council members in favour of the budget said they were doing so because it takes measures they feel have to be done and includes projects the community needs. 

•The Fort Malden Golden Age Club (FMGAC) returns to 179 Victoria St. S. and was given approval to use the building rent-free. Town council further directed administration to create programming and opportunities for 179 Victoria to be rented for use as directed by council in accordance with the most current User Fee By-Law and Schedule of Fees as approved by council.

•“An Evening of Hope” was held at Harrow United Church. Proceeds benefitted Project Hope Windsor-Essex. Project Hope operates the Harrow Food Pantry. 

•Sean Kenney’s Animal Super Powers exhibit opened at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing. It ran through April 6. The exhibit was through Imagine Exhibitions and LaSalle was able to bring it to their town. 

•The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter got boosted thanks to a fundraising dinner. A pasta dinner was held at the Columbus Community Hall with just shy of 170 people attending.

•Billed as a free disco dance party, the TRUE Festival encouraged people to come to town for an evening of entertainment. Fire and Glow performances, a fire show, drag queens, illuminated cornhole, toasting marshmallows, a spin-to-win game by The House Youth Centre’s “Embrace” group and hot chocolate and apple cider being sold by the Rotary Club made up the attractions.

FEBRUARY

•Black History Month started with a book launch at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. “Black Activist, Black Scientist, Black Icon” was unveiled with it being an autobiography of the late Dr. Howard D. McCurdy. McCurdy was a scientist who eventually became a Member of Parliament. After McCurdy died in 2018, the book was finished with the aid of Dr. George Elliott Clarke and McCurdy’s wife Dr. Brenda McCurdy. The museum and River Bookshop teamed on a series of events, including some with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra (WSO).

•It was made public that the Fort Fun Centre would re-open under new management. The restaurant and family gaming centre re-opened to the public in the spring.

•James Heugh, a man originally from Amherstburg who now lives in Las Vegas, was a participant in the Super Bowl halftime show as one of the acro performers.

•An open house was held for Malden Centre Park where members of the community came out to offer suggestions and express concerns over what was presented. Administration presented a concept with four baseball diamonds, an asphalt walking path surrounding and through the County Road 20 park, a new playground, shelter, washroom and parking lot. Two of the proposed diamonds would be 300-feet while the other two would be 250-feet.

•A new municipal structure to primarily house a fire truck on Boblo Island was approved by town council. Council members received a report from fire chief Bruce Montone detailing steps that have been taken on the fire protection issue on Boblo since 2017. Council authorized the expenditure of approximately $464,000 from development charges.

•The River Town Times launched a new website. It can be found at www.rivertowntimes.com. 

•Const. Nick Dupuis took over as the community services officer with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment. 

• St. Thomas of Villanova staged the production of “Mean Girls.” Between 40-50 performers were involved, with backstage crews and a number of programs in the Catholic high school collaborating to stage the production.

•The Windsor Police Service investigated two motor vehicle collisions in Amherstburg that resulted in one fatality. Officers were called to the intersection of Howard Ave. and County Road 20 for a report of two separate collisions. According to Windsor police, an eastbound pickup truck on County Road 20 allegedly attempted to turn left onto Howard Ave. and struck a westbound SUV. The driver of the westbound vehicle was transported to the hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Shortly after the first collision, police add that another eastbound truck allegedly failed to see the collision and struck the rear of the first pickup.

•An investigation by the OPP-led Provincial Weapons Enforcement Unit (PWEU), Windsor Police Service, and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) led to one arrest and the seizure of several firearms. The OPP-led PWEU partnered with the Windsor Police’s Drugs and Guns Unit (DIGS) and the CBSA to investigate. \

• Windsor police investigates a suspected arson that caused approximately $1 million in damage to two new homes. Officers responded to an active fire in the 700 block of Elliot Point Road. A newly built home was engulfed in flames when emergency crews arrived. The home was fully destroyed in the blaze, and the roof of a neighbouring residence sustained significant damage. 

•Kids Curing Cancer (KCC) presented its annual pasta dinner at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. Lauren, Kierstyn and Ty Baillargeon present the dinner with the aid of their family and friends. 

•The Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum was open Family Day and welcomed large crowds of people to the point where the amount of people surprised museum president Gary Struhar. 

•The North Star Wolves captured the WECSSAA “AA” senior girls volleyball championship. The Wolves defeated Belle River 25-15, 25-10 and 25-11 in the finals at St. Clair College. That is the second in as many years under the North Star banner. It was the fifth straight WECSSAA title dating back to the program’s roots at General Amherst High School and 14th under coaches Jeff Miller and Mary Ewer.

•The Coldest Night of the Year walk presented by The House Youth Centre was one of 192 walks held nationwide. The 123 walkers and 22 teams is “comparable to last year,” said fund development committee member Amy Bailey. 

•Town council unanimously approved authorized administration to sign an amended funding agreement with ERCA. An amended non-mandatory cost apportioning agreement met with Amherstburg’s approval. 

MARCH

•The Amherstburg Admirals’ season ended with a loss in Game 5 of their PJHL quarterfinal series against Blenheim. The Admirals had a 10-32 record in the 2023-24 PJHL Stobbs Division season.

•The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) held its annual general meeting. The ACOC was described as “flourishing” during its meeting at the G.L. Heritage Brewing Co.

•An Amherstburg man returned from a humanitarian mission to Ghana. Bert McLellan’s 17-day trip was through area Rotary Clubs. During the trip, there was the dedication of six wells, work at three schools, a donation of 140 sewing machines and over 30 professional hair dryers, and assisting with a medical clinic.

•After capturing the SWOSSAA “AA” title, the North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team travelled to Sydenham for the OFSAA “AA” tournament. The Wolves defeated London’s Oakridge Secondary School in the bronze medal match. The Wolves finished the season with a 28-3 record in league play and tournaments, going 6-1 at OFSAA. 

•James Pearson of Amherstburg “has $77,831.40 to put toward his dreams” after winning a second prize award in the January 30, 2024 Lotto Max draw. He claimed his prize in March.

•As a way to highlight its Meals on Wheels program, Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) participated in the provincial “March for Meals” initiative. A kickoff was held, which was themed locally as “Restaurants Unite to support Meals on Wheels.” 

•The business licensing fees that have been upsetting local businesses were put on hold. Town council suspended the fees until public consultation could be held and refunded the money collected, which was estimated to be in the neighbourhood of $12,000-$13,000. That decision came after a delegation from an Amherstburg business owner, who was supported by other owners and operators who came before town council.

•The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) holds its house league “Day of Champions” with a day full of games at the Libro Centre. Awards were presented to players during the day.

•The Amherstburg Firefighters Association presented the “Amherstburg Polar Plunge” for LaSalle-Windsor Special Olympics (LWSO). They did so to help Max Vigneux, a friend of the fire department who worked at station #1, and is an athlete with LWSO. 

•A trio of veterans were honoured with Quilts of Valour. Army veterans James (Jim) Jariett and Ernie Gazdig and Navy veteran Allan Carroll were presented their quilts as part of a Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 meeting. Pauline Gaudette, the Windsor-Essex County representative, made the presentations.

•An open house was held for the Co-An Park master plan with officials from Amherstburg and Essex on hand. The plan last anywhere from 20-50 years with the proposals included two 200-foot baseball diamonds, two 250-foot baseball diamonds, one 300-foot baseball diamond, paved parking lots, walking trails, senior, intermediate and junior sized soccer fields, a play area, pickleball/tennis courts, moving the Essex County Steam & Gas Engine Museum’s tractor pull area, new pavilions and shelters.

•Kids Curing Cancer wrapped up its 2023-24 fundraising campaign. Lauren, Kierstyn and Ty Baillargeon were at the Erie Shores Health Foundation board meeting where they revealed a total of $41,753.35. Proceeds went towards a new MRI suite at Erie Shores Health Care in Leamington.

•The “Sunshine List” was released for 2023. There were 29 employees of the Town of Amherstburg on the list. By comparison, there were 35 staff members in Leamington on the list and 82 in LaSalle, though the latter is the only county municipality still with its own police force. Kingsville had 22 staff members listed while Essex had 21. Tecumseh had 27 people on the list with Lakeshore at 28. There were 185 staff with the County of Essex on the list in 2023, many of whom are employed through Essex-Windsor EMS.

•Working together and making investments were part of what was on Warden Hilda MacDonald’s mind at the Warden’s Luncheon, hosted by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. She started by reminding her political friends that it is about the job and not themselves personally. 

APRIL

•Thousands of people gathered April 8 to watch the first solar eclipse since Ottawa saw a partial solar eclipse in the early morning of June 10, 2021. Viewing parties were held in various locations across the area, including Holiday Beach Conservation Area and G.L. Heritage Brewing Co.

•Minister for Seniors and Accessibility Raymond Cho helped celebrate the establishment of a Seniors Active Living Centre (SALC). The local SALC is the home of the Fort Malden Golden Age Club. That is located at 179 Victoria St. S. and Cho visited, along with Essex MPP Anthony Leardi and Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie.

•Council’s renumeration report was released for 2023. Mayor Michael Prue’s remuneration was $61,169 for 2023 while Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb earned $33,384.19. Council members’ remuneration ranged $29,593.92 to $26,334.76. The differences in their remuneration totals stems from communication allowance, per diem, public reception, training and conference and travel and mileage expenses. Two also served on the ERCA board of directors, which bumped up their totals.

•The Town of Amherstburg hostsed separate open houses, one to deal with the heritage conservation district and another to deal with the update of the  Official Plan.

•The second annual volunteer recruitment fair presented by Amherstburg Community Services drew over 70 people and over a dozen organizations. The fair was to connect people with various volunteer opportunities in the town and surrounding areas. ACS partnered with the Town of Amherstburg, with the latter receiving a Seniors Community Grant.

•The Fort Malden Guild of Arts and Crafts – the board that operates the Gibson Gallery – celebrated the realization of a long-time goal. David Cozens, president of the board, noted it was a goal for the gallery for the last 15 years to have an LED sign.

•A well-known farmer in the region is the latest inductee into the Essex County Agricultural Hall of Fame. Morley McLean was honoured at the Agricultural Hall in Harrow. 

•The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association (AMHA) conducted its year-end banquets for travel players. AMHA travel convenor Josh Leeman said they held mini-banquets with each team having its own banquet at the Libro Centre.

•Students from Windsor-Essex County schools converged on the Amherstburg Freedom Museum for the “Freedom Achievers” speaker series and mentorship program. Gary Archibald, CTV Windsor meteorologist and reporter, was the guest speaker in the “Freedom Achievers” mentorship program which included the “Achieving Freedom in the 21st Century” speaker series.

•The grand prize winners of the most recent Brentwood Lottery claimed their prize. Dave and Kelly Mickle from Amherstburg accepted the keys to the “dream home” grand prize, with the home located in Harrow. Their winning ticket was drawn and publicly announced in January with the keys being formally presented in late April.

•Earth Day was observed with trees given away and others planted. Volunteers from the University of Windsor’s School of the Environment and staff with the town helped distribute 200 trees free-of-charge as part of the “Map & Grow” program. Bryerswood Youth Camp held its annual Earth Day event and it featured a wide variety of activities and events centered around conservation and the environment.

•New Day – Leaders of Today marked its 20th anniversary with the organization being a self-advocacy group for those with intellectual disabilities. It operates under the umbrella of Community Living Essex County (CLEC) but has its own board of directors.

•Town council voted for a boat ramp at Ranta Park, going against an administrative recommendation. The move sees a $1.6 million option for a ramp at the end of the park given the green light, despite members of council believing it would exceed the $1.6 million estimate in a report from administration. The motion called for public consultation to begin and that administration investigate possible funding sources.

•The Rotary Club of Amherstburg welcomed one new member and brought back another. The club officially inducted Amy Wismer while Tony Ross was also inducted as a new member. Ross already had been a member for ten years before leaving the club for personal reasons.

•Crafters and vendors came to North Star High School for the second annual “Springfest.” Presented as a fundraiser for the school, the event was in the same spirit as the popular “Pumpkinfest.”

•The Valente Development corporation purchased the former General Amherst High School property at 130 Sandwich St. S. Later in the year, the company unveiled plans for it, including a residential component, a commercial section and offered the Town of Amherstburg a chance to move into a portion of it for a new town hall with lease, own or rent-to-own options.

•Over 170 people attend a volunteer appreciation event held at the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA). Anyone wishing to volunteer at WETRA will require a police clearance with vulnerable sector screening. 

•The Amherstburg Admirals held its annual award banquet. Jacob Archer was named team MVP for the 2023-24 hockey season. Other award winners were: Volunteer of the Year Marissa Gaudet; Community Service Award Dallas Kelly and Finnigan Russett; Most Improved Ryan Dufour; Most Dedicated Al Djordjevic; Rookie-of-the-Year Jake Goudreault; Best Defenseman Jadyn Brown; Coaches Award Travis Knight.

•Thistle Masonic Lodge No. 34 held its second annual chili cookoff. It was held to a capacity crowd and the cookoff was a fundraiser for the lodge.

•Jane’s Walks returned to Amherstburg. Several walks were held around the community highlighting historical facts and heritage buildings and neighbourhoods.

•Jason Durocher, a district chief with the Amherstburg Fire Department, received his Fire Officer IV Certification. Training and upgrading skills has been something Durocher has been doing since joining the Amherstburg Fire Department. He has been a firefighter for 30 years.

•Dalton Moore, a Korean War veteran, was honored at his Amherstburg home with a Quilt of Valour. Executive members from Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 joined Quilts of Valour Windsor-Essex County representative Pauline Gaudette in making the presentation to Moore. Moore served 33 years in the CAF and is a VAC (Veterans Affairs Canada) benefactor with over 43 years of Legion service.

MAY

•Community Living Essex County (CLEC) hosted “Luncheon with the Mayors.” Municipal representatives from around Essex County were in attendance. Guest speaker Michael Jacques, a 32-year-old man with autism and an intellectual disability, told his story with the assistance of his father Marcel. 

•A local businessman authored his third book, this one about communities. Richard Peddie released “Great Small Towns of Ontario” featuring backgrounds and suggestions for ten towns in the province, including Amherstburg. Other towns Peddie visited are Niagara-on-the-Lake, Cobourg, Goderich, Huntsville, Perth, Port Hope, Elora, Almonte and Picton.

•Some of the finest high school chess players from the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB) competed against each other as St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School hosted the second annual “Villanova Cup.” 

•Town council approved patios for the three fast-food restaurants being built at 527 Sandwich St. S. The community knew Starbucks was coming, but learned at that meeting that Taco Bell and Burger King were also part of the plan. A fourth building is also being constructed with tenants still not yet made public.

•Three people face charges after an investigation into numerous locations, including Amherstburg, related to child pornography accusations.

As part of “Project Aquatic,” the Windsor Police Service and Chatham-Kent Police Service state they arrested and charged three individuals with child pornography-related offences. Between Feb. 26-March 1, Windsor Police partnered with Chatham‐Kent Police to execute four search warrants in five locations across Windsor, Amherstburg, and Chatham. As a result, police say 23 electronic devices were seized and 15 charges were laid. 

•A noise bylaw exemption and waiver of fees was granted for Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 but it was the noise issue in particular that had neighbours concerned. The issue of outside entertainment and the volume thereof was the subject of three delegations before town council, and while council agreed to the exemption, council members did urge all parties to work together on the ongoing issue. 

•An Ombudsman Ontario report gave the Town of Amherstburg mixed results in its latest investigation into complaints surrounding open meeting rules. The report issued by Ombudsman Paul Dubé stated in his report that town council contravened section 239(4)(a) of the Municipal Act regarding meetings Aug. 8, 2022, Feb. 13, 2023 and March 27, 2023 “by failing to provide sufficient information about some general topics of discussion in its resolutions to proceed into closed session.” The town was found not to have contravened the Municipal Act after investigations into Sept. 8, 2022, Nov. 29-30, 2022, and Feb. 14, 2023 meetings.

•The Amherstburg Minor Hockey Association Stars and the Erie North Shore Storm organizations officially merged. While the name of the new partnership, along with a logo and team colours has not been decided, what is for certain is that they will come together under one banner to start the 2025-2026 season. There were 488 registered players at Erie North Shore last season and 126 votes were cast with 81.7 percent agreeing to merge with Amherstburg. In Amherstburg, AMHA had 407 players in 2023-24, 130 votes were made of which only 12 said no.

•Stella Maris School principal Marisa Wismer was honoured with the J.F. Johnston Outstanding Catholic Educator Award. The J.F. Johnston Outstanding Catholic Educator Award is awarded annually to an educator “who best exemplifies system leadership while maintaining the vision and mission of the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board.”

•Bryce Dougan won the Canadian Physique Association sanctioned Stephanie Worsfold Classic in London. Dougan competed in the junior men’s body building division and has been actively pursuing his goals seriously since he was in high school.

•Town council voted 4-3 to move forward with consultation with businesses on the matter of possibly closing Murray St. between Ramsay St. and Dalhousie St. Members of Thistle Masonic Lodge No. 34 and local accessibility advocate Linda Saxon were among those voicing opposition. The Amherstburg Residents Forum launches a petition later in the year opposing the possible closure, with numerous concerns identified in it.

•A local seven-year-old qualified to head to Hawaii to compete in the Pokémon World Championships. Brantley Meharg qualified at a tournament held at St. Clair College in Windsor then headed to Hawaii with his family. His latest Pokémon video game is “Pokémon Violet.”

•The Motorcycle Ride for Dad was held with two of its stops being in Amherstburg. The fundraiser for prostate cancer research took place with the route starting at Thunder Road Harley Davidson in Windsor. Stops included Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 and Wolfhead Distillery in Amherstburg, Colchester Bar & Grill and Thompson Manor Steak & Seafood in Kingsville.

•Essex-Windsor EMS held “Survivor Day” at St. Clair Centre for the Arts. The day reconnected survivors of cardiac arrest with the paramedics and doctors that saved them.

•The Ontario Volunteer Service Awards came to the region where over 3,200 volunteer years were honoured. One of the local volunteers with extensive volunteer service is Joe LeBlanc. LeBlanc, owner and a coach with the Fighting Island Boxing Club, was recognized for his over 40 years of service.

•The Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) held its annual “Barn Bash” at their McGregor facility. It was a fundraiser where people got to come to a dinner and enjoy themselves while being casual in their blue jeans and cowboy hats.

•The former Edgewater sanitary lagoon system, located behind the Golfview subdivision, has been transformed into a natural area where subdivision residents and the entire community can enjoy. 

•The Active Aging Two-Day Expo returned. Presented by ACS and the Town of Amherstburg jointly promoted the expo at the Libro Centre. Activities included over 40 local vendors, free tastings from local wineries and breweries, demonstrations and entertainment and health and wellness presentations.

JUNE

•Decoration Day was held by Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 with commemorations taking place in three parts. After a brief ceremony at the cenotaph in Navy Yard Park, the official unveiling of street signs with names of veterans and poppies took place. Formalities concluded with Rev. Gene Lotz speaking about veterans from Amherstburg in his book “The Anguish of War.” 

•The Catholic Women’s League (CWL) of St. John The Baptist Church raised money with its Olde English High Tea Party at the Columbus Community Hall. Hats and fascinators were the style of the day.

•Private and public gardens were on display for the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society’s (AFMHS) Garden Tour. Ten gardens were toured by people from the area and beyond. 

• The McGregor Music Festival was held with large crowds on hand to enjoy the music, classic cars and more turning out to support the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation. The festival was presented at Co-An Park with eight bands, the pig auction, a classic car show, raffles, and door prizes. A cheque presentation for $95,000 was made in July.

•A raise was approved for Essex County council. County council members voted in favour of giving themselves what amounted to an over 137 per cent increase. Base salary in 2023 for mayors and deputy mayors who represent the seven local municipalities was $13,211.65. Retroactive back to January, it will now be upped to $31,302. The position of deputy warden will increase from $16,163.54 to $40,938 while that of the warden stays basically the same going from $92,896.86 to $92,987. Four members voted against the pay raise - Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue, Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb, LaSalle Deputy Mayor Mike Akpata, and Lakeshore Deputy Mayor Kirk Walstedt – while the remainder of county council were in favour.

•The Amherstburg Freedom Museum held its “Ribs & Ragtime” fundraiser at the museum. The museum recognized the “Hour A Day Study Club” and that club’s 90th anniversary as part of this year’s celebration. It raised close to $10,000.

•The St. Thomas of Villanova Wildcats boys baseball team season ends but it was a success. The Wildcats were eliminated in the OFSAA Regionals played in Windsor-Essex County. After entering the OFSAAA Regional tournament as the number two seed, Villanova went 2-2 to close out their season. 

•The LaSalle Strawberry Festival was held at the Vollmer Centre. A variety of events, including a parade, fireworks, games, entertainment and more were held. Of course, strawberries were a key component of the Strawberry Festival.

•An officer with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment received a 2023 Ontario Medal for Police Bravery. Sgt. Matt Capel-Cure was awarded the 2023 Ontario Medal for Police Bravery in Toronto. Capel-Cure earned the award through his actions after a serious car crash June 3, 2023. He was first-on-scene at a vehicle collision where a motorist had crashed into a County Road 18 residence and hit a gas line. The driver lay nearby with severe burns. Capel-Cure approached the injured party and helped move him to a place of safety with the aid of a bystander.

•The Bob Meloche Memorial Fishing Derby was presented by the AMA Sportsmen Association. The nearly 200 kids under the age of 12, had their choice of locations to fish this year and what they caught was either measured at the AMA Sportsmen’s Club or at Navy Yard Park.

•The Rotary Club of Amherstburg officially welcomed Dan Monk to its ranks. He was given his Rotary pin by current Rotary Club of Amherstburg president Susanne Rainhard.

•The Amherstburg Ribfest made its return. It was located on Ramsay St., between Murray St. and Richmond St., with Ribs Royale, Dinosaur Smokehouse, Texas Jacks and Bubba Lou’s being the four ribbers. It was hosted by the Dan Gemus Real Estate Team.

•An Amherstburg firefighter was credited with saving a life while at his day job in Windsor. Todd Racine, a firefighter at Amherstburg station 2, assisted a driver that pulled into the factory he works at after the driver went down with a heart attack. Racine said the driver was loading a truck with another employee and before he could turn and tell anyone that something was wrong, the driver collapsed to the ground. Racine’s training as a firefighter helped save the driver.

•The North Star High School athletic banquet was held. Among the highlights were an OFSAA bronze medal for the senior girls volleyball team, three track and field athletes qualifying for OFSAA, the football team winning the Hogan’s Printing/Penalty Box Bowl, four swimmers qualifying for OFSAA, numerous all-star team selections and athletes who qualified for SWOSSAA in their various sports. The male athlete of the year was Kyle Jones while Lily Mulder won female athlete of the year. Mulder was later recognized as WECSSAA Female Athlete of the Year.

•Harrow was shaken by a tragedy after a family of four was found deceased. A crowd of over 1,000 people attended a vigil at the Harrow Soccer Park. The OPP stated postmortem examinations determined the cause of death as gunshot wounds for 41-year-old Carly Stannard-Walsh, 13-year-old Madison Walsh and eight-year-old Hunter Walsh. The cause of death for 42-year-old Steven Walsh was determined as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police add. According to the OPP: “The initial investigation has determined that this is a case of intimate partner violence (IPV).” 

•The Woofa-Roo Pet Festival returned and despite the heat, the pets and their people who turned out seemed to enjoy themselves. The 11th annual pet festival was held for two days at the Libro Centre and festival director Lorene Clayton was pleased with how many people still came out.

•Council renewed the agreement with Transit Windsor for another five years with a fourth run between Amherstburg and Windsor added. 

JULY

•Fireworks, activities, citizenship ceremonies and more helped Amherstburg residents and visitors celebrate Canada’s 157th birthday. A full day of Canada Day celebrations took place, starting with the Canada Day Run/Walk in the morning. Entertainment was spread between Fort Malden National Historic Site, Toddy Jones Park and Navy Yard Park. At the opening ceremonies, Mayor Michael Prue said Canada Day is an opportunity to reflect and remember what it means to be a Canadian.

•Dancers with the Rivertown Dance Academy (RDA) concluded their season but have been staying busy over the summer months. Children and teenage dancers wrapped up their season. Dancers competed in an American regional competition and four Canadian regional competitions during 2023-24.

•The Town of Amherstburg announces Michael Mio as its new fire chief. Mio takes over in September from the retiring Bruce Montone. Mio served with the Windsor Fire and Rescue Services since 1994, including a portion of this time under Montone, Mio has advanced through the ranks until most recently as assistant chief of the Fire and Rescue Division. 

•Sobeys franchise owners Rick and Krista Truant went to a company conference in Collingwood and brought home awards won by the Amherstburg store. They won the Store of the Year for the southwestern Ontario district and the Food Safety Store of the Year award. 

•The AMA Sportsmen Club presented its annual walleye fishing derby with Gary Goulin being the big winner. His fish measured over 30 inches. He said it was the first time he won, and he has been entering over 30 years. Cash prizes of $5,000, $3,000 and $1,000 were awarded.

•The Essex Fun Fest was held and entertainment was one of the main attractions. Organizers were able to bring in both global acts as well as some area musicians. Among those were Amherstburg’s own Harbouring Illusions. Special headlining guests for this year’s Fun Fest was Canadian rock legends Honeymoon Suite. Tecumseh’s Carson Janik, along with Redferrin, British Beat 66, John Thomas Band and the CIAO Band, were some of the other acts.

•The Town of Amherstburg appealed to the County of Essex for intersection improvements at  Sandwich St. S. and Lowes Side Road. The motion directed either Mayor Michael Prue or Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb to request county council perform a traffic calming study and the relocation the 70 km/hr speed limit sign at Lowes and Sandwich St. S. to a point south of the five entrances to the Seasons Retirement Community, the Amherstburg Family Health Team, the Health First Pharmacy, Blue Haven Apartments and County Road 20 and Dalhousie St. intersection. The motion also calls for the county to investigate the feasibility to consider a crosswalk at the Sandwich/Lowes intersection. The issue hit a delay over jurisdiction matters as to whether the town or the county owns the intersection.

•Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) took advantage of and cashed in on a “Save on Energy” grant which allowed them to replace outdated fluorescent light bulbs in part of its main building known as the Lodge.

•Staff Sgt. Bryan Hayes settles in as the new officer in charge of the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, having taken over from Staff Sgt. Brian Caffarena in late June. Caffarena had been with the Amherstburg Detachment since Oct. 2022 and is now in a leadership role with Windsor police city centre patrol. Prior to the transfer, Hayes was the patrol staff sergeant working out of downtown Windsor.

•The Rotary Club of Amherstburg met two scholarship recipients and welcomed two members to its ranks. North Star High School graduates Addyson Walker and Daniel Rufo were at the meeting with Walker being the Hazen Price Memorial Scholarship recipient and Rufo the June (Roadhouse) Paisley recipient. Sally Holden and Wanda Lawhead became members of the Rotary Club of Amherstburg, being inducted by president Jeremy Warnock.

•The Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) officially opened the second phase of its three-phase trail project with a ceremony at the Libro Centre. The town and sponsors were thanked. 

•The second annual Art Crawl was held with art lovers enjoying tours, stained glass art, performances from the Rivertown Dance Academy, exhibits from the Gibson Gallery and Marsh Historical Collection, the efforts of the Amherstburg Fort Malden Horticultural Society, a children’s art contest and more. The two-day event was run by volunteers with Everjonge Homes was the title sponsor. 

•The Mind, Body and Soul Festival was held at the Libro Centre. The event was developed in partnership with the Amherstburg Soccer Club, the Amherstburg Pickleball Association, Valiants Basketball, the Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC), Windsor Ultimate Frisbee and the Miracle League of Amherstburg. 

•The Amherstburg’s Gone Car Crazy Show saw upwards of 730 vehicles on Dalhousie St., Richmond St., Murray St., Rankin Ave., North St. and in Toddy Jones Park with vehicles from different eras and different styles represented. Steve Heinrich of Beverly Hills, Michigan captured the Paulie Award as best-in-show this year with his 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air.

•The Amherstburg Freedom Museum welcomed Speaker of the House of Commons Greg Fergus to the museum. Fergus said he came to the area at the invitation of his colleague Windsor-Tecumseh MP Irek Kusmierczyk and museum president Monty Logan. 

•Essex MPP Anthony Leardi got new jobs within the Ontario government. Premier Doug Ford appointed Leardi as the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Health. Leardi was also assigned the duties of Deputy House Leader.

•Friends, family and well-wishers helped celebrate Margaret Hunt’s 105th birthday. Hunt’s birthday was July 31 and family and friends were able to get together to greet and pay tribute to their beloved family member. 

•A “parks summit” was held at the Libro Centre with displays showing current and future proposals for each of Amherstburg’s parks put up around the main rink. Director of parks, facilities and recreation Heidi Baillargeon called it “a high level look” at all of the parks in town. The input will be factored into the town’s updated parks master plan (PMP). The last PMP was adopted in 2018.

•The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter held its final gigantic yard sale for the shelters in the D.R. Congo. The non-profit organization continues to fundraise through other means. They also continue to seek sponsors for the children. Information on the charity is at www.hopeislife.ca. 

•An Amherstburg woman won over $78,000. The OLG stated Laresa Grondin of Amherstburg can “find her possible” after winning a Lotto 6/49 second prize worth $78,261.10 in the July 6 Lotto 6/49 draw. 

AUGUST

•Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club raises about $3,100 at a “Mid-Summer Fundraiser” at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. The BYCOC continually fundraises throughout the year for camp improvements and programming.

•Emancipation Day was celebrated by the Amherstburg Freedom Museum. The museum held its annual Emancipation Celebration dinner at the Hellenic Cultural Centre in Windsor. 

•Military history of yesterday and today was on display at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada during the Living History Festival. Re-enactors dating back to the Roman Empire to modern-day military members came for the event.

•Farmers had a chance to test their skills against one another at an Amherstburg farm. The Essex County Plowing Match competition was hosted by Larry and Dan Pajot on Concession 7 South. There was also a farm equipment show as part of the day. Following the competition an awards dinner was at the Harrow Fair Agricultural Hall.

•Council approved the tender for the new south fire station, which will combine stations one and three at the Libro Centre site. The motion passed in a 4-3 vote. The motion stated the approved budget for the South Fire Station be reduced by $507,568.42 resulting in a final budget of $11,330,407.58, inclusive non-recoverable HST, for which up to $10,916,108 will be funded through debt.” Niacon Limited were awarded the tender. A groundbreaking was held in September.

•Eight new pickleball courts are coming to the Libro Centre as the tender was approved. Town council awarded the tender to the Jones Group Ltd. in the amount of $476,815.11 including contingency and that a $30,224.07 shortfall in funding come from the dedication reserve. A groundbreaking took place later in the summer.

•The Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Show was held at Co-An Park. Museum president Gary Struhar pointed out highlights including the tractor parade, the public viewing antique tractors and farm equipment, entertainment for adults and children, pony rides, a chicken dinner, auction, numerous vendors and more.

•A pasta dinner fundraiser at Wolfhead Distillery had a pasta dinner for Wings Rehab. In addition to the funds raised during the dinner, Timberwolf Forest Products, Wolfhead’s sister company, donated $4,000. This contribution, combined with the $3,115 raised from the dinner itself, brought the total donation to $7,115.

•A possible new gas bar and convenience store in Malden Centre was the topic of debate at a planning meeting. The new store, should it proceed, would be located at 6754 County Road 50 at the southwest corner of County Road 20 and County Road 50, and the meeting was regarding a zoning bylaw amendment that would be needed. According to a report from manager of development services Christopher Aspila, the site is currently zoned Commercial Neighbourhood (CN-8) but the amendment would allow for the addition of a gas bar on the site.

•The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) ruled in the matter of the proposed new boutique hotel on Dalhousie St. The OLT ruled the appeal against bylaw 2023-51, one that provides setback relief from the town’s zoning bylaw from 7.5 metres to zero metres, is dismissed. The hotel would be a 15-unit development with the OLT ruling a main floor commercial/restaurant space “shall be an enclosed space” with the ruling also stating the proposed rooftop restaurant/bar not be used for those purposes. The development at 256 Dalhousie St. is proposed by Black Dog Entertainment, owned by Richard and Colleen Peddie.

•Despite an administrative recommendation to the contrary, town council unanimously denied a request for a secondary dwelling unit (SDU) on Laird Ave. The contentious issue featured a 25-page report on the agenda that arrived at the recommendation with two options council could have chosen to approve it. Council members instead rejected it, citing concerns that were raised mainly over the front yard location, the structure’s height and distance from the main home. The matter is now before the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) with a hearing scheduled for January.

•The Park House Museum gave people a look at days gone by all as a way to mark the museum’s recent 50th anniversary. The event featured hearth cooking, butter making, tea and goodies, storytelling, tours, crafts and games.

•A long-time local broadcaster and radio station founder passed away. Marty Adler, owner and founder of CKBG 107.9 FM “The Burg,” died peacefully at the age of 81. In his later years, Adler fulfilled a dream by launching his new Amherstburg radio station.

•Art by the River, the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Gibson Gallery, was presented at Fort Malden National Historic Site of Canada, with 175 vendors selling a variety of different goods. There was something for everyone and thousands came through the gates.

•The Southern Ontario Vintage Bicycle Show was held at the Concession 6 North home of Mark and Cori McGuire. It was the tenth annual show with the McGuire’s barn and yard featuring classic bicycles and related antiques. 

•Steve Gibson of Amherstburg headed to Massachusetts on a fishing trip and ended up catching a tuna that weighed 580 pounds. The length was measured at 110-inches.

•A new grocery store is coming to town and it will occupy a building that has sat unused by the public for several years. Mercato Fresh, a Windsor-based grocery chain, announced it is expanding and will locate at 365 Sandwich St. S. The anticipated opening date, according to the company, is Spring 2025.

•A celebrity chef came to Amherstburg and shared his skills with local residents. Chef Robert Rainford, a Canadian chef who lives in Toronto, hosted “Sizzle of the Grill” at Pointe West Golf Club. Rainford has authored “Rob Rainford’s Born to Grill” and hosted the television show “License to Grill” on Food Network Canada, Discovery Home and the Asian Food Channel.

•Funding for after-hours and weekend medical clinics is being sought by Amherstburg but it is one of many such requests the province is hearing.

The Town of Amherstburg teamed with the County of Essex to pitch “More Hours, More Patients, More Care” to the provincial government during the recent Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) conference in Ottawa. 

SEPTEMBER

•The 170-year tradition of the Harrow Fair continued. The pie auction raises $117,500 for the John McGivney Children’s Centre and that was just one of the many activities over the Labour Day weekend.

•The Town of LaSalle hosted the Last Call Before Fall. The event was held at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing.

•A late night fire at a commercial building in Amherstburg has resulted in approximately $30,000-$50,000 in damage and one arson charge. The Amherstburg Fire Department gave those estimates after a fire the previous night at the corner of Alma St. and Sandwich St. S. Windsor police announced that a 31-year-old man was arrested in connection with the fire. Police say officers attended the building in the 30 block of Sandwich St. S. where “thick smoke billowing from a commercial building” was discovered.

•The Amherstburg Freedom Museum opened “For Friends and Family: Social Organizing in Late-Nineteenth Century Amherstburg,” an exhibit created by university undergraduate student Max Bennett, who was selected for the Local Black History Internship Program. The Maturine-Romain Award recipients and Mac Simpson Scholarships were presented that night as well.

•Hotel STRY started accepting bookings for guests with people able to stay at the Murray St. hotel starting Oct. 1. 

•An Amherstburg resident who researched her great-grandmother and what led her from Scotland to Canada has seen that research result in an exhibit in Scotland. Jamie Lees curated “Left at the Wellgate: The Untold Story of Mary Petrie Smith” and that ran from Sept. 14-Oct. 14 at the Central Dundee Library in Scotland. The exhibit delves into Smith’s background before leaving for Canada on Sept. 11, 1911. 

•The Town of Amherstburg held a meeting for business owners with Open Air Weekends and business. The meeting, held in an open house format, was at Flow Café & Bikes. Business owners and employees got to question town administration and council members on both issues as displays were set up around the store.

•The Department of Fisheries and Oceans stated it would provide funding for the demolition of the Boblo dock on Front Road South. The dock had become damaged in recent years with the town worried about public safety.

•A large crowd filled the Ciociaro Club for the Amherstburg Fusion soccer program’s inaugural banquet. Players from U8 to U16 teams gathered that night.

•This year’s Festival of Hawks was a special one as the Holiday Beach Migration Observatory celebrated its 50th anniversary. The weekend was marked with a cake cutting in which many volunteers of the HBMO including Bob Pettit took part.

•Legion Week was presented by Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157. The week is dedicated to educating the public on the contributions of veterans and what Legions bring to a community.

•A suspected arson on Cowan Court sparked an investigation by the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment. Amherstburg fire issued a $1.5 million damage estimate while Windsor police estimated the damage at $1.6 million. There were no injuries.

•Town council entered into the next steps of possibly having a private development group proceed with their plans for the Belle Vue property.

Council agreed to approve a six-part motion that would result in the Town of Amherstburg negotiating with the Amico/Loop family proponents to see if a deal can be reached so that entity can redevelop the property. 

•The Amherstburg Freedom Museum celebrated its 49th anniversary. This landmark is sure to be a huge stepping stone for next year’s celebration of 50 years.  

•The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission celebrated a pair of milestones at its annual general meeting (AGM). Not only was it the 30th anniversary of the mission, president Tim McAllister was recognized for his 70th birthday.

•The Miracle League of Amherstburg, the first in Canada, celebrated its 15-year anniversary. The  initial board of directors were recognized as part of the festivities.

•The minister of health was in the region and met with community members and stakeholders. Sylvia Jones was in Essex meeting with people from the community on a variety of issues, joined by Essex MPP Anthony Leardi, and Jones called it “a reinforcement” of what initiatives and projects the current Progressive Conservative government have put in.

•Witches, wizards, muggles and more took over the downtown core of Amherstburg. The Amherstburg Uncommon Festival returned with residents and visitors coming out, many in costume, to enjoy Harry Potter, steampunk and more. A drone show, magic shows, hypnotists, “Punch & Judy” puppet shows, vendors, games, falconry shows, axe throwing, costume contests, sandcastle creations, flea circuses, and wand making were part of the fun.

•The Fighting Island Boxing Club presented “Battle in the Burg” at Shooters Roadhouse. The show featured local fighters and boxers from across the region in the ring against one another.

•Inclement weather did not dampen the spirits of those who attended the Ruthven Apple Festival at Colasanti’s. Celebrating 45 years, the annual fall classic supports Community Living Essex County (CLEC) and the agency’s efforts to purchase and maintain accessible vehicles.

•The “Heroes for Histio” walkathon was held as a fundraiser for the Fight Like Mason Foundation and the Histiocytosis Association. Organized by the Drouillard family, the fundraiser also featured inflatables, raffle prizes, activities and lunch.

•Town council proceeds with the demolition of part of the Amherstburg Community Hub though a resident had hoped to have them listen to one of his suggestions instead. The $700,000 cost will cover part of tearing part of the southeast portion of the building at 320 Richmond St., one that formerly housed St. Bernard School, though resident John Menna appeared before council with other ideas.

•The McGregor Mug Run & International Beer Festival was held with the 5K run/walk starting and ending in front of Co-An Park with the beer festival following. While runners dealt with rain, they were able to stay under the pavilion to enjoy the five bands that performed and sample beer from eight local breweries. 

•The town approved its new space needs study in principle with it carrying estimated costs of $64.4 million over a 50-year period. The town spent $200,000 on the study, performed by Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL) Workplace Consulting.

•Truth and Reconciliation events were held, centring mainly around Navy Yard Park where drum performances and vendors were stationed near the gazebo. The Park House Museum served corn soup and bread.

•James Ouellette, originally from Amherstburg, was named one of the recipients of Southwest Montana’s 20 Under 40 award winners. The award recognizes young professionals making significant contributions to their communities.

OCTOBER

•The Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) held its “Fall Fair” with a variety of activities inside and outside. Vendors were inside and people got to tour the barns to see the horses and other animals, take carriage rides, visit with young ponies outside, enjoy food trucks and watch Border City Barkers dog agility shows.

•The Gordon House was identified as needing over $135,700 of work to repair items that were identified in a report from ALink Architecture Inc. as being in poor condition. The total estimated cost for all repairs needed for the Gordon House swells to $848,597, including a 20 per cent contingency not including HST or cost to paint the building. That cost factors in items identified in the report as “fair condition.”

•Town council proceeded with the application for a grant they hope will fund about half the cost of upgrades at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park. The project would see two tennis courts, two multi-purpose courts and an asphalt trail. The overall cost is estimated at $1.06 million with the town’s $530,000 share being funded, should the grant application be successful.

•The Catholic Women’s League (CWL) chapter at St. John the Baptist Church celebrated its 100th anniversary with a banquet. CWL members past and present and their spouses, along with CWL members from other councils, gathered for the dinner and presentations.

•The Holiday Beach Migration Observatory (HBMO) welcomed the public once again as they presented “Hawktoberfest” at the hawk tower at Holiday Beach Conservation Area.

•Leslie McLean retires from Community Living Essex County (CLEC) after 45 years of service. She started in 1979 and spent most of her career in Amherstburg.

•Three years of planning and consultation resulted in the creation of County of Essex’s new Official Plan. Several members of the public, along with representatives from developers and organizations spoke up about the new plan at county council. The biggest issue of support from them came from the fact that the county is committing to increasing the region’s natural heritage cover from the current nine to 15 per cent.

•The Art Amherstburg Society added virtual art tours to its website where people can tour and look at the roughly 50 art installations the town. By going to www.artamherstburg.ca, scrolling down and clicking on “Self-Guided Art Tours,” people can choose between four topics to scroll through.

•Numerous Halloween events were held in Amherstburg. River Bookshop hosted a “Witches Walk” through the downtown core while a similar event on Boblo Island raised food items for the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission. A “trunk or treat” was held at Bryerswood Youth Camp while Encounter Church presented its “Candy Palooza” event.

•Residents of George St., Seymour St. and parts of Murray St. voiced concerns and anger to town council over letters regarding porches, fences and landscaping on town property. The issue pertains to upcoming sewer work in the area. Residents have expressed emotions ranging from anger to concern on the matter, with some fearing porches and steps would have to be replaced stemming from letters they received from the town. In the end, town council agreed they would not only not touch permanent structures like porches and steps, but administration was directed to “undertake all tasks associated to prepare and submit the relevant encroachment documentation to be registered on title for those entering into encroachment agreements as part of the capital project for infrastructure works on George, Seymour, and portions of Murray St.” and also that “all costs related to the preparation of documentation and registration of encroachments on title that are made necessary by the infrastructure works on George, Seymour and portions of Murray St. be incorporated into the associated capital works project costs and that annual fees be waived.” Some residents are upset that landscaping and fencing will still have to be removed, while width of sidewalks also cause concern.

•A local man was part of a Canadian team took first place in one of the categories at an international off-road motorcycling race. Jeff Pillon competed on the Canadian team that took home the championship in the vet club category of the ISDE race held in Spain. It was a six-day event and his team made a little bit of history in the process, as Pillon said it was the first Canadian team to win at the event in 98 years.

•“Pumpkinfest” was held at North Star High School, a tradition that began at the now former Western Secondary School. Over 200 vendors took part with students also able to get in on the act with shops, the cosmetology classroom, culinary department and student volunteers being part of it.

•The AMA Sportsmen Club was recognized by Essex-Windsor EMS for its role in helping an area family. Essex-Windsor EMS Chief Justin Lammers presented the AMA Sportsmen Association a “Cardiac Champion” certificate in honour of an AED (automated external defibrillator) donation to a teen and his family after the teen suffered an instance of cardiac arrest this past February. The old AED was donated to Jack Luck and his parents Darren Luck and Sue Reaume. Jack suffered cardiac arrest when visiting with his father and was revived after near fatal results.

•The Town of Amherstburg takes another crack at getting funding under the province’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (HEWSF). The first attempt at getting money through the fund was unsuccessful, but the town is hoping a second attempt will see dollars flow to the municipality. If successful, the money would go towards infrastructure in the “southeast quadrant,” large swaths of land in the areas of Lowes Side Road and Fryer St. and east of Big Creek, lands that are owned by a series of developers.

•Thistle Masonic Lodge No. 34 celebrated its 175th anniversary. Members of the local lodge plus colleagues from other Lodges gathered at their Murray St. home where they marked the occasion. 

NOVEMBER

•Promoting personal health and staying active, a runner and cyclist made Amherstburg a stop in his cross-Canada trek. Trevor Redmond, also known as “The Fellow in Yellow,” was in town. Redmond said this was not his first trip across Canada, having first done it almost 20 years ago.

•The academic best from North Star High School were recognized. The “Night of Excellence” was presented where those who made the honour roll, earned subject awards and made the Principal’s Roll of Excellence were honoured. A total of 246 students from last year’s Grade 9, 10 and 11 classes were recognized.

•Remembrance Day was observed in Amherstburg with Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 conducting the parade and ceremony at the cenotaph. A new commemorative crosswalk was also unveiled at the corner of Dalhousie St. and Murray St. Mayor Michael Prue credits resident Dave Wharram with the idea and said council and administration quickly worked to get the crosswalk completed in time for Remembrance Day.

•”Christmas on the Farm” debuted and ran through weekends through mid-December. It was presented by the Windsor Parade Corporation and Sarah Parks Horsemanship. Funding from the province helped run the event with that amounting to $20,000.

•Enbridge made a pair of funding announcements. They contribute $22,000 for the River Lights Winter Festival, which kicks off later in the month. They also contribute $7,500 towards a new rehab trailer for the Amherstburg Fire Department.

•Hundreds of runners, walkers and those using mobility aids hit the streets of Essex for Community Living Essex County’s Jingle Bell Run, Walk and Wheel. The event raised $9,000 for the agency. It started and ended at Ken Knapp Ford.

•North Star High School student Lauren Essenpreis receives a scholarship to attend Wayne State University. Her skills on the volleyball court played a large part in her landing the scholarship to the university, which play in the NCAA Division 2’s GLIAC conference. 

•The second annual “Meet & Mingle” event in McGregor aimed to connect residents with services in the area. Organized by Essex Councillor Kim Verbeek, it was designed to have people come in and visit with various clubs and organizations offered in or near McGregor.

•A vote to eliminate programming and jobs as part of a multi-year budgetary plan for the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) did not sit well with a number of parents. Programs such as the Reaching Individual Success and Excellence (RISE) will be “restructured” though delegations that appeared before the board pressed the board not to go forward with its budgetary plan and instead keep the program intact in its current form.

•In addition to the start of River Lights, the Essex Region Conservation Foundation hosts its annual Super Santa Run. Hundreds of “Santas” run the downtown streets of Amherstburg to raise funds for conservation initiatives.

•LaSalle opened “Holiday Lights, Heritage Nights” at the LaSalle Civic Centre. It was located predominantly between the main building on Malden Road that houses town hall and the LaSalle Library and the LaSalle police station. 

•A packed house at Coachwood Golf & Country Club helped three shelters in Africa. The Hope of St. Joseph Shelter Inc. - a corporation that assists Father Donato Lwiyando in caring for boys and girls at three shelters in Bukavu, D.R. Congo - presented a fundraising dinner.

•Town council voted 4-2 to keep Open Air Weekends in the same 14-week format for the next two years. The remainder of the current council term has been covered off by the motion, which followed contentious debate.

•The Amherstburg Santa Claus Parade saw thousands line Sandwich St. North and South, Richmond St. and Dalhousie St. to view the floats and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus.

•A group of local community members spent some time in the “slammer,” all for a good cause. A “Bail or Jail” fundraiser was held near the front entrance of the Sobeys store in Amherstburg. The $4,025 raised goes to the food bank operated by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). It was presented by CKRT Border City Radio, in conjunction with Sobeys Amherstburg. 

•The Amherstburg Fire Association (AFA) held its second annual “Fire in the Hole” cornhole tournament. AFA president Cameron Arksey said the number of participants this year was similar to what it was at the first tournament in 2023. 

•Joyce Charron, a driver for Sharp Bus Lines, was named “Bus Driver of the Year” by the Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS). She learned of the honour at a safety meeting for Sharp Bus Lines. Charron was surprised by the announcement, thinking the WESTS representative was at the meeting to present the award to another bus driver.

DECEMBER

•Can drives, collections of non-perishable food items, clothing drives, monetary donations, adopt-a-family initiatives and hat and glove drives occurred throughout the town. Many community partners such as the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, Amherstburg Community Services (ACS), the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP) among others benefited.

•CKBG 107.9 FM “The Burg” entered a team into the Detroit Free Press Marathon in October and, with the help of donors and sponsors, raised $3,940. Proceeds were donated to the Windsor Cancer Centre Foundation in December. The five-person team was named “Marty, Take Us to the Highlights,” a tribute to founder and long-time broadcaster Marty Adler. The name came from promotional videos Adler did where citizens were filmed stating that catchphrase prior to a sportscast.

•The Holiday Dinner Giveaway took place at Amherstburg town hall. Drivers drove in and had their vehicles loaded up with turkey, ham, potatoes, carrots and other necessities. Local developer Michael Dunn and his family sponsored the dinner giveaway.

•“Christmas at the Museum” was held at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum with two acts featuring Christmas music to get people into the holiday spirit. Black Kids in Action and Trading Places performed for the crowd.

•A new four-storey building could be coming to Victoria St. S. but the process of possibly realizing that is in its early stages. The building would be located at 300 Victoria St. S. at the site of the current Scout Hall, which formerly housed the Fighting Island Boxing Club. The new building would be a mix of ground floor commercial with 22 residential units, all but one being two-bedrooms.

•Community Living Essex County (CLEC) bids farewell to Anne Garrod after 42 years. A retirement party for Garrod was held at Channel Resource Centre in Amherstburg, where Garrod was based in her position as director of supports for the west area.

•The 2025 operating and capital budgets were approved in principle and Amherstburg taxpayers face a 5.12 per cent increase. Town council approved the budget in principle with Mayor Michael Prue adding there could be some changes to that number if new revenue comes in. The 5.12 per cent increase translates into an increase of $144.78 per $250,000 or $57.90 per $100,000 per year. Votes to approve both the capital and operating budgets were done separately with both passing in 6-1 votes. 

•A weekend fire damaged homes and a GoFundMe page was set up to help some of the victims. Two homes were damaged on Lake Beach Road with the Amherstburg Fire Department estimating total damage at $800,000. The GoFundMe account is called “Amber & Maddie & Lincoln GO Fund Me.”

•The AAM Goodfellows raised over $15,000 in their newspaper sales and packed 92 food baskets. There were 88 people that registered with some baskets packed as extras in case they were needed.

•”Christmas at the Parks” is held at the Park House Museum. The museum also hosts candlelit tours educating people on how Christmas was celebrated in the mid-1800s.

•MADD kicked off “Project Red Ribbon.” The campaign reminds people not to get behind the wheel if they are impaired by alcohol or drugs. The risk increases during the holidays, but people are reminded not to drive impaired at any time of year.

•The Town of Amherstburg wants to see a Community Safety Zone extended in River Canard near St. Joseph Church. Council wants to try and continue the existing Community Safety Zone along County Road 8 down South Riverview Dr. The motion calls for “the Town of Amherstburg work with the County of Essex to extend the Community Safety Zone boundaries to include all of the church property, especially the parking lots, and examine the intersection and corridor for safety improvements, including a potential speed limit reduction.”

•Town council voted to proceed to negotiate an agreement with Valente Developments to possibly move Amherstburg town hall into part of the former General Amherst High School property. As part of the motion, direction was provided for administration to proceed with negotiations and “at a future date,” provide council with an in-camera report including recommendations on negotiation strategies and expectations as well as a financial plan.

•The Windsor-Essex Bike Community (WEBC) has received the green light for phase three of their trail project. Town council has authorized the trails, which will be connected to the first two phases that are located at the Libro Centre. The “conditional approval” allows WEBC to begin its fundraising efforts, with a goal of roughly $30,000.

•The town has received another update on the remediation of the King’s Navy Yard Park extension lands. The lands, the former site of Duffy’s Tavern & Motor Inn, are still not able to be opened to the public, but could finally be open for public use in the third quarter of 2025. 

•The Hockey for Hospice is in the books for another year and this year’s total is $534,984. The tournament was held Dec. 27-29 with four arenas and eight ice pads used. Twin-pad arenas in Amherstburg, Essex, Tecumseh and LaSalle were utilized for the three-day event. This year’s total brings the overall 28-year fundraising amount to over $5.8 million.

2024 Year in Review