

"BEST PRACTICE" definition: a procedure that has been shown by research and experience to produce optimal results, and is established or proposed as a standard suitable for widespread
adoption.
I’ve always loved copying and adapting best practises during my career. I know I can’t copy a scientific formula or plagiarize a book, but I can copy something that is in the public domain...
One of the things voters should look for in the coming municipal election is the candidates’ awareness of what’s happening in other small towns. Or read books that are full of ideas, like Jan Gehl’s Cities for People, Jeff Speck’s Walkable City, or any book by Jane Jacobs.
In my mind, Amherstburg has a number of best practices. For instance, Musicland replacing its front window with a garage door to convert it into an outdoor stage for live musicians; Art Alley that is a best practice in many communities across the world; and Open Air is an annual event that wins provincial awards every year.

WHAT MAKES AMHERSTBURG GREAT: UNCOMMON FESTIVAL
And one of my favourites is our award-winning Amherstburg Uncommon Festival. This event blends steampunk fashion with magic, fantasy, and wizardry. It features street buskers, cosplay, themed vendors, and unique, interactive photo installations. All happening this weekend in downtown Amherstburg—a free, all ages weekend!
For four years, a Kraken has decided to take residency in the second floor of River Bookshop. This is a photo you must take and share with your friends far and wide. They will wish they were in Amherstburg.

WHAT MAKES AMHERSTBURG GREAT: WHAT'S NEXT
Next week, we will recognize "Truth and Reconciliation." Indigenous people have been here on the land long before European colonization, so we want to shine a light on this important day.


MIDNIGHT RELEASE PARTY: TICKETS ON SALE NOW
Threshing Day is almost here, and we're having a midnight release party! The book will be released Tuesday, September 29th, so our party will be the evening of Monday, September 28th, leading up to midnight.
Pre-order this ticket here along with a copy of Threshing Day in order to guarantee your spot at our Midnight Release Party! Book must be pre-ordered with ticket in order to guarantee your spot. Please make sure your full name and contact method are given when you place your order.
If you prefer to buy a ticket to the party without a copy of the book, use this link instead. Priority spots will be given to attendees who plan to purchase a copy of the book. Higher quantities of this ticket type may become available closer to the event as we confirm attendance numbers.

MAGICALLY UNCOMMON STORY TIME
Uncommon Festival Story Time is one of our favourites all year, and we are excited to have Kara Kaufmann returning as our reader!
Come read with us and discover all the unusual and magical fun that a great book can provide on Sunday, September 20th at 11AM at River Bookshop.


CALLING ALL BIRD WATCHERS & LOVERS
September 19th and 20th is a very special time at Holiday Beach as it’s the annual "Festival of Hawks." Visitors have the opportunity to watch thousands of migrating raptors. Join guided hikes, take part in free expert-led programs, and see live hawks and owls up close.
Stop into River Bookshop this weekend on your way to Holiday Beach and check out our selection of bird books and puzzles.
Plus, AS ALWAYS, Kings Court Falconry hosts live owl, hawk, and falcon shows downtown all weekend long during Uncommon Festival.

UNCOMMON FESTIVAL IS BACK: MAP & SCHEDULE LINK
Step into a world where steampunk meets magic. Gears, gadgets, and enchantments abound at the extraordinary Amherstburg Uncommon Festival.
Dress up in your favourite wizardry or steampunk costume and join us for a weekend filled with fun. Expect more buskers, live performances, games, vendors, and downtown businesses open to serve you. You will want to return every single day so you don’t miss a thing!
Click here for the events schedule!

It was a very CHEESY Story Time last Sunday, and a beautiful day to sit outside in the Art Alley and read stories about the foods we love to eat. We hope to see our Story Time families again this weekend, whether you're dressed as witches, wizards, or magical creatures.
So much to see and do in Amherstburg!
We hope to see you downtown this weekend.
The River Bookshop Team