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The Ruthven Apple Festival is this Weekend!
Folks throughout Windsor-Essex County have been gearing up for the much loved Ruthven Apple Festival! Pictured above is Brianna, Clayton, and Kevin. Pictured below is Ryan and Lori. They are all proudly displaying their Ruthven Apple Festival signs, inviting their neighbours and friends to join them for some wonderful autumn activities for a worthy cause. All proceeds go toward the maintenance and purchase of accessible vehicles for Community Living Essex County. The festival is scheduled for September 30th and October 1st at Colasanti's Tropical Gardens and we are looking forward to seeing you all there!
Smiles and Strikes
Ken enjoys going bowling with his housemates. It has become a regular, fun activity for them. When he rolls that heavy ball down the lane and knocks down all the pins in one shot, he can't help but smile. His strikes, along with that smile, bring joy to everyone around. Bowling simply makes Ken very happy!
First-Class London Adventure
Lothar had a fantastic day in London. He rode in style on the VIA Rail Train in first class, which was a real treat. He visited the mall for some light shopping, and to soak in the sights and atmosphere. For lunch, he enjoyed a delicious meal at the Bourbon Street Grill. It was a day filled with fun and great experiences, making it a memorable adventure in the bustling city of London.
Excellence in Action
Congratulations to our very own Patty Neufeld, Manager, Quality Assurance! 🎉 She was recently presented with the 2023 Certificate of Recognition from FOCUS Accreditation. This certificate acknowledges Patty for her role, involvement and contribution to FOCUS as a Peer Validator.
Registration Open for Forum Spotlighting Invisible Disabilities
The Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee is inviting elected officials, community groups and residents to join in raising awareness of invisible disabilities and finding ways to be more inclusive. Invisible No More – An Accessibility Forum, features keynote speaker Julie Sawchuk from Sawchuk Accessible Solutions. There will be presentations by the Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex and Shelbey Pillon, Manager of Supports for Community Living Essex County, who will be presenting on behalf of Career Compass. The forum will take place on October 19th from 9 am - 3:15 pm at Heritage Park Alliance, 2501 Concession Road 6, in LaSalle. Tickets are $70 per person, and lunch will be provided.

Registration deadline is October 5th.
- CAREGIVERS R US -
It’s that time of year! The kickoff of caregiver appreciation events! Ensemble, with the generous financial support of the Ontario Caregivers Association and continued support of Community Living Essex County, is pleased to announce the first of a series of events.
 
1.    Are you providing UNPAID support to a family member with intellectual disabilities?
2.    Is your family member with intellectual disabilities living at home with you 24/7?
3.    Is the family member you support an adult?
If you answered YES to the 3 questions above — this event is for you!

As unpaid caregivers of adult children with intellectual disabilities, we know how invigorating social outings can be. These occasions re-energize us. Ensemble has once again, planned FREE recreational activities that will give you a chance to meet others who live the same life, the life of a caregiver, while you explore creative outlets.
Join us Saturday, October 21st, for our Tree of Life Wreath Workshop. This event will take place at The Crafty Nest Studio, located at 14 Division Street South in Kingsville. This FREE event will provide you with all the materials and directions needed to create a beautiful macramé wreath. This event is offered on a first come first served basis as seating is limited. *ONLY 1 PERSON FROM EACH FAMILY CAN ATTEND.*
 
To be part of our first fall event, please RSVP to Marilyn at mgodard@ensembleunderstands.com as soon as possible! Please include your full name and the age of the adult with intellectual disabilities you are supporting. All information will remain confidential. Fun, creative, social activities create opportunities that allow us to meet new people, share useful information and to provide much needed relaxation.
Happy Fall!
Marilyn, Ensemble Family Consultant and the Advisory Committee
mgodard@ensembleunderstands.com or 519-776-6483, ext. 225
An Update from New Day
From October 2nd - 8thYOU can help New Day by ordering pizza from Dominos! New Day earns $5 from every combo sold. Skip the cooking, relax and kick back while supporting a great cause! Make sure to use the codes in the flyer when ordering.
Ruthven Apple Festival Looking for Volunteers!
Farmers Market
Dates: Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1
Times: between 8 AM to 6 PM
Duties Include:
  • Set-up & clean-up
  • Loading apples and other produce
  • Bagging & selling produce
  • Accept cash, debit and credit payments

Donation Tent
Dates: Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1
Times: between 8 AM to 6 PM
Duties Include:
  • Set-up & clean-up
  • Assist with the sale of raffle tickets for a variety of prize baskets
  • Accept cash, debit and credit payments
Apple Festival Merchandise Tent
Dates: Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1
Times: between 8 AM to 6 PM
Duties Include:
  • Set-up & clean-up
  • Assist with the sale of Ruthven Apple Festival clothing
  • Accept cash, debit and credit payments

Festival Entrances
Dates: Saturday, September 30 and Sunday, October 1
Times: between 8 AM to 6 PM
Duties Include:
  • Set-up & clean-up
  • Help to guide attendees
  • Provide information about CLEC and answer questions about the festival
  • Accept cash, debit and credit donations from attendees
Classic Car Show
Dates: Sunday, October 1st
Times: between 8AM to 4PM
Duties Include:
  • Set-up & clean-up, including garbage clean-up
  • Assist with vehicle registration
  • Help guide cars to parking areas
  • Assist with the sale of 50/50 raffle tickets
Did you know? Proceeds from this fundraiser help Community Living Essex County maintain and purchase accessible vehicles.
Ruthven Apple Fest Originals Are Now Available!
Celebrate the return of everyone's favourite fall festival with Apple Festival original merchandise! Take your pick of cozy sweatshirts for the whole family, tote bags, mugs and more! Order online and pick up your items at our office in Essex. Items will also be available for purchase at the Ruthven Apple Festival, while supplies last!
Yoga with CocoYoga
YOGA is for EVERYBODY!
You're invited to join Coco (Nicole) for a FREE, 4-part, outdoor yoga series for all! Whether you are just beginning or are an avid yoga practitioner, Coco has modifications to suit all needs and abilities. This series encourages everyone to get outside and move!
 
Classes take place at Optimist Park located at 1075 Ypres Blvd. in Windsor on September 26th, October 3rd, 10th, and 17th.
 
Click below to visit the CocoYoga website to check for updates on this series and more.

Strategies for Employment:
Preparing, Finding and Retaining Work 
If you're seeking employment-focused guidance for a loved one with a disability, don't miss this informative webcast. Job developers will share strategies to support those preparing for employment or actively job hunting. Plus, you'll gain insights on how to further advance employment goals, even if your loved one is already employed. This webcast is a valuable resource for building a meaningful and fulfilling life through work.
 
Webcast Discussion Topics:
  • Is employment a good fit for your loved one?
  • Key considerations for managing expectations and setting realistic goals;
  • Tips for preparing and navigating the job-seeking process;
  • The role of a job developer and employment agency;
  • Strategies for selecting the right professionals to join your team;
  • The role of families in supporting employment goals for loved ones with a disability.

This webcast takes place Tuesday, October 3rd at 7 pm includes a live Q&A with our panelists.
Speakers:
Frank Fagan
Assistant National Director

Yvonne Lindsay
Employment Specialist
The webcast will be recorded and made available to watch for one month after the air date.
Supporting Caregiver Awareness, Learning and Empowerment Program
ACT Workshop for Fathers in Ontario
This workshop welcomes fathers residing in Ontario who have loved ones with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs). It is co-led by a fellow father with an NDD loved one and experienced clinicians, held over Zoom for five Wednesday sessions from 7 pm - 9 pm. Session dates are Oct 11th, 18th, 25th, Nov 1st, and 29th. It is important that participants attend all five sessions.

If you are interested, contact Alex Porthukaran at Alex.Porthukaran@camh.ca
Sustainable Fall Living
Shop for Local Foods
Autumn brings the joy of the harvest season in Windsor-Essex County, with local farms and roadside stands offering an abundance of fresh, locally grown vegetables like pumpkins, onions, and potatoes. Supporting local farmers not only boosts the local economy but also reduces the environmental impact of long-distance shipping. You can easily find these treasures at nearby farmer's markets or charming roadside stands.

For a more hands-on experience, consider apple-picking at a nearby orchard with friends or family. The Ruthven Apple Festival at Colasanti's this weekend is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy locally grown produce from hundreds of vendors, making it a delightful outing to enjoy fresh local goodies while spending quality time together.
Honouring Truth and Reconciliation Day Across Windsor-Essex County
Caldwell First Nation Sacred Fire for the Children
Caldwell First Nation invites you to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through their Every Child Matters Sacred Fire events. On Friday, September 29th, there will be a Sacred Fire Walk and Feast for the Children at Caldwell First Nation's hall in Leamington, starting at 9 am. On Saturday, September 30th, Caldwell First Nation will host the Sacred Fire for the Children at Northwest Beach in Point Pelee National Park, also starting at 9 am. Stand in solidarity as we honour this important day together. For additional details, please contact Carrie Ann at cultural.dev@caldwellfirstnation.ca
Town of Kingsville: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The town of Kingsville is honouring survivors and victims of residential schools, their families, and communities on Friday, September 29th - Sunday, October 1st. Wear orange to show solidarity in the journey of understanding and reconciliation.

All events are FREE to attend. Show your support and learn more about Kingsville's commitment to reconciliation in our Land Acknowledgement and Reconciliation statement.
Truth and Reconciliation Video Series at Windsor Public Library
The Windsor Public Library will feature displays and resources of Indigenous content at all branches and online at the Digital Branch throughout the week. Click the link below for more information and resources.
National Day of Truth and Reconciliation: Maamwii Bimose "Walking Together" with Indigenous People
Together as a community, we are on this journey of reconciliation. The truths of families and survivors of Canadian residential schools have left permanent scars on communities and our nation. In the spirit of healing and reconciliation, we will gather on Dalhousie Street in Amhersburg, Saturday, September 30th, from 1 pm - 6 pm. Learn and listen from Elders and motivational speakers from the community. Learn more about Indigenous culture, and watch demonstrations of dancing, drumming and storytelling. Shop at the Indigenous vendors selling unique arts, crafts and gifts.
Ruthven Apple Festival
A cherished local tradition returns to Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens in Kingsville on Saturday, September 30th, through Sunday, October 1st. This event has live music, children’s activities, craft and food vendors, a farmers’ market, and an exciting car show. All proceeds from this weekend of festivities will support Community Living Essex County's vital work with individuals with intellectual disabilities. For additional details, click the link below.
Jazz on Drouillard 2023
Jazz on Drouillard's fourth installment is Saturday, September 30th, from 12 pm - 9 pm. For $15 admission, you can enjoy live jazz performances by Windsor's top musicians and special guests. The event spans the 1000 block of Drouillard Road. Tickets are available online or in-person at Pressure Drop (1055 Drouillard Rd). Don't miss this celebration of jazz, culture, and community!
MJ THE ILLUSION: Re-living the King of Pop
Dedicated to his craft, Michael Knight sought guidance and training from Michael Jackson's former choreographer and vocal coach, propelling him into the top three global Michael Jackson Tribute Artists as MJ The Illusion, delighting fans worldwide. MJ the Illusion will take place Saturday, September 30th, at the Chrysler Theatre at 7:30 pm. Tickets for this event start at $38.95. Group discounts are available for parties of 6 or more. For accessible seating and group sales inquiries, please contact the Box Office at 519-252-6579. Don't miss this extraordinary tribute!
Harvest & Horses Festival
The Harvest and Horses Festival at the John R. Park Homestead is on Sunday, October 1st, from 11 am to 5 pm. Admission is $8 for adults, $6 for children or seniors (ages 3-16 & 65+), and $30 for families. Register online or at the door. Dogs are not allowed at this event. Don't miss this fun-filled day at the John R. Park Homestead in Essex.
Positive Thoughts
Must See T.V.
Reservation Dogs
Reservation Dogs became a big hit in 2021 and has continued to impress. It's the first mainstream TV show where everyone involved, including the writers, directors, and actors, are Indigenous. The third season has 10 episodes, and you can catch the series finale on Disney+ on September 27th.
Recipe of the Week
Easy Apple Cake
There's a certain comfort to an old-fashioned apple cake. This recipe is not only quick and easy to whip up but also produces a cake that is moist, dense, and incredibly delicious. Its classic taste is like a cozy, warm hug for your taste buds.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Weekly Poll Question
Are you a Ruthven Apple Festival:
Veteran, I never miss it!
First timer, this will be my first year!
Absentee, unfortunately, I cannot go this year! :(
Party-pooper, I do not like festivals.
Poll Results
What is your favourite way to eat apples?

Just the apple itself. ~ 25%
Apple pie. ~ 36%
Apple sauce. ~ 2%
Apple jam. ~ 0%
Apple juice/cider. ~ 8%
Baked/roasted apples. ~ 10%
Other. ~ 19%
Yuck, I don't like apples!~ 0%