Sister Time Well Spent

Janine enjoyed a wonderful vacation with her sister last month. One highlight was a visit to a cozy cat café, where she spent the day surrounded by furry friends. She also made a stop at a charming goat farm, which made the trip even more special. With her love for animals, it was the perfect way to enjoy some quality family time.

Savoring Summer's End

Last week, Laurie and Silvie enjoyed a relaxed lunch on Silvie’s front porch, soaking up one of the las days of summer. They shared smiles and laughter, enjoying the simple moments that make the day special. They also talked about how excited they are to start baseball this fall.

Sips and Strategy

Last week, Clayton and David enjoyed a late morning stop at their local Tim Hortons, sharing coffee and donuts before heading over to the library at the Atlas Tube Centre. There, they spent some time exploring the chess area and appreciating all the library has to offer.

Brushstrokes & Breezes

Last month, Sandy and Christine enjoyed a visit to Amherstburg where they attended Art by the River, one of Amherstburg’s well-loved annual events. They spent time exploring the variety of art on display and soaking in the lively atmosphere along the riverfront. It was a wonderful way to spend the day surrounded by creativity and local culture.

An Update from Career Compass

Through the Youth in Action program, Antonio made a meaningful contribution to the Town of Leamington. Over the summer, he worked hard to clean and disinfect, supporting a safe and welcoming environment for all visitors to the Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre! Your dedication made a great difference, Antonio — great job!

FARM-ALICIOUS SEASON


You're well-prepared for the beginning of the fall season. Seems like we've given you LOTS to consider in order to make the transition from summer to fall! Hopefully, the season gets off to a positive start🤞!


We in the county are so fortunate to have an abundance of fresh produce readily available. Our local farmers have worked tirelessly to provide families with an amazing variety of FRESH fruits and vegetables at unbelievably low, competitive prices. Why not take your family on a county drive and let your kids select their favourite healthy produce? For many kids, they have never seen first-hand where all the fresh produce comes from. Remind them that without potatoes grown by farmers, there would be no potato chips!! 🤔 Open their eyes to the world of farmers and support local industries at their source.


With the produce you buy, why not access the FREE Ontario website below that offers free recipes and other useful information:

For example:

A trip to the county on the weekend of Saturday, September 27th and Sunday, September 28th wouldn't be complete without a stop at THE RUTHVEN APPLE FEST!


See you in the County!


Marilyn

Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee

An Update From New Day

New Day’s next meeting will be on Friday, September 19th, at Channel Resource Centre in Amherstburg from 10:30 a.m. to noon.


The discussion will focus on travel tips, including what to bring on an airplane and other helpful advice to make your vacation smooth and stress-free.


New Day will also be at the Accessibility Fest-For-All on Friday, September 12th at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. Stop by our booth to say hello!


Stay tuned for an exciting get-together in October—more details coming soon.

Ruthven Apple Festival - Save the Date!

🍎 Save the date for the 46th Ruthven Apple Festival! 🍎


As September wraps up, make sure you don’t miss out one of Essex County’s favorite traditions: the Ruthven Apple Festival! For over four decades, this cherished event has been a celebration of our local bounty, and this year promises to be bigger and better than ever!


📅Dates: September 27th & 28th

📍Location: Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens, Ruthven


👉For more details and updates, visit www.ruthvenapplefestival.com.


You can look forward to:

🍏Farmers Market: Fresh-picked apples and a fantastic array of locally grown produce.

🎶Live Entertainment: Enjoy vibrant performances by local artists all weekend long.

🎨Over 125 Craft Vendors: Shop unique handmade creations and support local artisans.

🚗Sunday Classic Car Show: Marvel at vintage vehicles and classic cars.

🍔Food Vendors: Indulge in delicious treats and tasty eats from a variety of food vendors.

Since its inception, the Ruthven Apple Festival has proudly raised over $1 million to support Community Living Essex County. Your participation helps us purchase and maintain wheelchair-accessible vehicles that provide essential transportation for people receiving supports, ensuring they can access appointments, volunteer opportunities, and community events.


Gather your family and friends for a weekend filled with fall fun. See you at the festival!

Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All!

We're excited to once again be taking part in the second annual Outdoor Accessibility Fest-For-All! This event is hosted by the County of Essex's Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee (ECAAC) and is taking place on Friday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Libro Credit Union Centre in Amherstburg. This is a free event, and all are welcome to attend. We hope to see you there!

Disability Tax Credit Assistance

Get Free Assistance With Disability Tax Credit

and Canada Disability Benefit Applications


Community Living Ontario is reaching out to let you know about a resource you may be interested in.


Plan Institute is a national non-profit organization dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to lead a good life. They help people with disabilities and their families make informed decisions about future and financial planning through their webinars, resources, community-based programming, and advocacy.


Plan Institute also offers one-on-one support through their free Canada-wide Disability Planning Helpline. Their key areas of focus include the Disability Tax Credit, the Registered Disability Savings Plan, and the Canada Disability Benefit.

DSO Information Session

Join DSO Housing Navigators on Tuesday, September 9th, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a free virtual lunchtime session featuring the brand-new Technology for Independence: Home, Community Safety, and Personal Health e-learning module. This interactive event is open to people with developmental disabilities, their families and support networks, as well as developmental services professionals across Ontario. Discover how technology can support greater independence at home and in the community—all from the comfort of your own space. Click the button below to register.

P4P Free Information Session

Partners 4 Planning’s fall webcast season kicks off this September with Introduction to Parent and Caregiver Advocacy in Ontario’s Schools. On Thursday, September 11th at 7:00 p.m., caregivers can join expert panelists for an informative online session focused on navigating the education system for children with diverse learning needs. The webcast will cover key topics such as decision-making processes, funding allocation, important educational legislation, and practical actions parents and caregivers can take to advocate effectively for their child’s education. This is a valuable opportunity to gain insights, ask questions, and feel empowered in supporting your child’s learning journey. Click the button below to register for this informative session.

We're Member Strong! Join Us!

A strong, thriving membership is essential to our agency. Membership includes a variety of engagement options and is a great way to show support for the work of Community Living Essex County. Members help guide the direction and work of the organization, attending events and taking a strong interest in building inclusive communities for people supported. Join us and together we can be Member Strong! Click the link below to renew your membership or join for just $10 and receive membership perks!

Tourism Windsor Essex County Pelee Island

Fall Event Guide

Discover the top events happening across Windsor, Essex County, and Pelee Island from now through October 31. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or exploring your own backyard, this guide is your go-to list for fall fun and experiences. Use it as a checklist for your road trips around the region or as a must-do list for discovering local gems.


Click the button below to view the guide online or pick up a print copy at the Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island main office or the Caesars Windsor Visitor Information Kiosk.

St. Paul's Anglican Church Pasta Dinner

On Friday, September 5th from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., St. Paul’s Anglican Church invites you to a hearty pasta dinner filled with good food and great fellowship. Let the church do the cooking as you enjoy all-you-can-eat meat and vegetarian pasta dishes, fresh salad, rolls, and cake—all for just $14 per person. Whether you choose to dine in or take out, it’s the perfect way to relax, eat well, and connect with the community. Click the button below to visit the event website.

Galaxy – Windsor Psychic and Crystal Fair

From Friday, September 5th to Sunday, September 7th at the Giovanni Caboto Club, discover a weekend of insight, energy, and creativity at the Galaxy Psychic and Crystal Fair in Windsor. Explore readings from some of Canada’s top psychics, mediums, astrologers, and healers, plus aura photography, rune readings, and more. Browse a variety of beautiful crystals, handmade jewelry, and other artisan creations. The fair runs Friday 2:00–6:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am–10:00 pm, and Sunday 11:00 am–6:00 pm. Tickets are $10 (good all weekend; children 12 and under free), with $3,000 in door prizes up for grabs! Support local artisans and experience a unique, mystical weekend in Windsor. Click the button below to learn more.

Tecumseh Twinkling Lights Night Market

Step into a magical evening at the Tecumseh Twinkling Lights Night Market on Friday, September 5th, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Team Goran’s Courtyard. Enjoy live music, browse unique vendors offering one-of-a-kind items, and sample a variety of delicious food options. The market also features entertainment throughout the night, making it perfect for a fun outing with friends or a special date night. After exploring the market, stop by a nearby patio along Tecumseh Rd or Lesperance to enjoy a meal or specialty beverage and soak in the atmosphere. Click the button below to visit the event website.

Lakeshore Parks Concert Series

On Friday, September 5th, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Lakeshore Summer Parks Concert Series continues at Millen Community Park with a performance by Jon Brett. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of live music in the park. Click the button below to visit the event website for more details.

2025 Taste of Walkerville

On Saturday, September 6th, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Taste of Walkerville returns for its second year. This street closure event is a celebration of local food and drinks, featuring dinner and beverage specials along with a variety of local eats. Come out to Wyandotte Street East, from Lincoln Road to Devonshire Road, to enjoy the flavors of the community and support local vendors. Click the button below to visit the event website and learn about upcoming Walkerville events.

Fall Market on the Farm

On Sunday, September 7th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the Fall Market on the Farm takes place at Bouchard Gardens. Enjoy a day full of family-friendly activities while browsing local vendors offering fresh vegetables and fruits, pumpkins, corn stalks, baked goods, jewelry, bath bombs, jams, clothing, fresh fish, flowers, and more. Click the button below to visit the event website for a full list of vendors and details.

Wicked Wednesdays: Haunted Heritage Tours

On Wednesday, September 10th, from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., join Wicked Wednesdays: Haunted Heritage Tours at the Canadian Transportation Museum & Heritage Village. Presented by the Purple Theatre Company, this ghost tour brings haunted history to life—are you brave enough to explore? Tickets are $20 for general admission and $10 for ages 12 and under. Click the button below to get your tickets before they vanish into the night.

Inspirational Words

Recipe of the Week

Easy Bruschetta Chicken

Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this Easy Bruschetta Chicken! Featuring Italian-seasoned chicken, grilled or baked to perfection, and topped with melty mozzarella, marinated burst cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil, this dish is quick, flavorful, and versatile. Serve it alongside toasted bread or toss it with pasta for a simple yet delicious summer meal. As the days get shorter and the evenings cooler at the end of summer, this comforting dish is perfect for enjoying those last warm nights.

Fall Forward Series: Preparing Your Home for the Fall Season

Check Your Heating System

As temperatures begin to dip, it’s a good time to ensure your heating system is ready for the season. Change furnace filters, test your thermostat, and consider scheduling a professional inspection if it hasn’t been serviced recently. A little preventative maintenance now can save headaches and energy costs later. Don’t forget to check that vents are clear and unblocked to help your system run efficiently.

Weekly Funny

Crafting Corner

Leaf Stamped Napkins

As summer winds down, bring a touch of autumn to your dining table with this simple DIY Leaf Stamped Napkins project! Using leaves collected from your yard, plain napkins, craft paint, and a few basic tools, you can create beautiful, nature-inspired designs in just a few easy steps. This craft is perfect for anyone looking to add a seasonal, handmade touch to their home décor without spending hours on complicated projects. It’s a fun way to celebrate fall and get creative with natural materials. Click the button below to get crafting.

Weekly Poll Question

What are you most excited for this September?

Last week's poll results:


With Labour Day fast approaching, how will you spend the “unofficial end of summer”?


Backyard BBQ - 25%

Catching up on projects or chores - 21.4%

Road trip - 14.3%

Working - 14.3%

Camping trip - 10.7%

Family picnic - 7.1%

Back-to-school prep - 7.1%

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