LaSalle’s “Last Call Before Fall” mixes it up as end of summer party

Brenda Ritchie (left) and Jenna Jones of Sippity Sweet at LaSalle’s Last Call for Fall held Sept. 11-12 at the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing.

When you host an annual event, sometimes you have to mix it up a little.

This past weekend the Town of LaSalle opened the doors of the Event Centre at LaSalle Landing and presented its fourth Last Call Before Fall.

DJ Quris George was spinning tunes from the 70’s 80’s and 90’s as part of the two-day event, held last Friday and Saturday nights (Sept. 11 and 12).

“We are doing a throwback themed night. We have seen the success of these parties. We noticed that on Friday night’s it’s a bit of an older crowd,” said Town of LaSalle’s supervisor of recreation Jordyn Rafuse.

As the speakers blasted such hits as the Village People’s “Macho Man” and “Dancing Queen” by Abba, patrons got to sample wine, craft beer and spirits.

Returnees to Last Call for Fall such as Amherstburg’s G.L. Heritage Brewery were joined by newcomers including Brookston Oaks brewery and Mastronardi Estate Winery.

Sipitty Sweet was new this year and they offered up a variety of non-alcoholic beverages including a favourite of owner Brenda Ritchie, what she calls a Dirty Soda. It’s a mixture of Coca-Cola, coconut, lime and a secret ingredient that she won’t divulge.

“I started experimenting with my kids and friends and I like being creative,” said Ritchie.

As her partner Jenna Jones was making a drink, Ritchie said that they have been operating a little over a year and are now doing deliveries. They always enclose an inspiring message of positivity.

“I started after my dad died because he told me to go for your dreams, so I went for it.”

There was a lot to do at this year’s event and back by popular demand were some outdoor games on the patio including a giant beer pong, cornhole and a basketball net.

In offering the non-alcoholic drinks, Rafuse said, “we get people who don’t drink or they are the designated driver and they come in and enjoy themselves.”

There were lots of food vendors, including a new popcorn booth along with outdoor bistro lighting to complement the comfortable seating around gas fireplaces.

Last Call for Fall is an end of summer celebration and this year partnered with Barrels, Bottles and Brews Trail along with the Essex Pelee Island Coast Wineries.

Saturday night’s entertainment was provided by Higgi Country Music featuring singer-songwriter Rob Higgins.

LaSalle’s “Last Call Before Fall” mixes it up as end of summer party

By Fred Groves