River Town Times - April 8, 2026

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Agricultural Hall of Fame inducts four new members

By Ron Giofu

Four new members have been inducted into the Essex County Agricultural Hall of Fame.

Rochelle Deslippe, Leo Guilbeault, Neil McBeth and Walter McLean were honoured last Thursday night at the Harrow Agricultural Exhibition Hall. Joined by family, friends, dignitaries and fellow Hall of Famers, the new members had their photos added to the wall with the many other Hall of Fame inductees’ photographs after the induction ceremony.

First to be honoured was Guilbeault, a graduate from the Ridgetown College campus of the University of Guelph in 1980. He purchased his parents farm in 1987, growing the operation from 200 acres to 2,200 acres and growing such crops as corn, soybeans,

wheat and canola.

Guilbeault’s background also includes working for the Essex Hybrid Seed Company from 1980-83 as the plant operations manager and seed corn specialist. From 1983-1995, Guilbeault worked at the Stoney Point Co-op as a crop specialist and he was responsible for starting and managing the custom application business for the co-op. He was promoted in 1990 to the branch manager position and then in 1993 he was promoted to the position of Essex North Manager.

Agricultural associations have been an extensive part of Guilbeault’s life, being a former president of the Essex County Soil and Crop Improvement Association. From 1998-2001, he also served as a provincial director. Guilbeault also served as president of the Essex County Conservation Club and

worked with Jerome Deslippe and Henry Denotterto to start the Holiday Beach Conservation Farm. Guilbeault was also integral in the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO), with Crosby DeVitt from the GFO on hand to help honour him. He also served as a director or chair of several provincial bodies such as the Ontario Soybean growers, OFA Policy Advisory Committee and the Ontario/Quebec Grain Farms Coalition to name a few.

His background also includes contributions to the Comber Fair, the Essex County Federation of Agriculture (ECFA) “Farm Hiker Tour” and giving back to his community through athletics in St. Joachim and Belle River.

His Hall of Fame sponsor was the Essex County Grain Growers.

Accompanied by his family, Guilbeault congratulated his fellow inductees and thanked his nominators. He recalled in his late teens, not knowing what he wanted to do, but when his friends went into the auto plants, he knew that wasn’t for him.

“That didn’t fit what I thought I could do,” said Guilbeault. “I never thought of going down that path. Agriculture was the right and only path for me.”

Guilbeault said he enjoyed “every minute on the farm” and “45 years later, I have no regrets at all.”

Noting he has also worked with or consulted two prime ministers, three premiers and numerous agriculture ministers, Guilbeault credited friends and competitors in the industry for his accomplishments, not to mention his family.

“You can’t do this without a lot of family and friends,” he said. “A lot of my mentors and friends helped me out. Agriculture is a great career. When you love what you do and do what you love, it’s not a job. There’s no better way to spend life than on the farm.”

McBeth was raised on his family farm, operated by his father Douglas and his uncle Kenneth. He was mentored in both dairy and caged layer poultry, with his early years seeing him feed cattle and chickens. He was active in sports in high school but still did his chores on the farm. He was also involved in Scouting, attending the 12th World Scout Jamboree in Idaho.

Continued on Page 8

Good Friday procession marches through Amherstburg

By Ron Giofu

The annual Good Friday procession, otherwise known as the Way of the Cross, wound its way through the downtown core of Amherstburg the morning of April 3.

The procession was presented by St. John the Baptist Church, with it being a long-standing project of the church’s Italian community. After a Mass inside the church, the procession started in front of the church and made its way north on Brock St. to Richmond St. and headed west to Ramsay St., with a stop next to Richmond Terrace Long-Term Care Home along the way.

Once the procession left Richmond St., it headed south on Ramsay St. with a stop in front of Christ Anglican Church included. After a prayer by Rev.

Lisa Poultney, the procession continued to Park St. and then to Bathurst St., before winding its way down Simcoe St. with a stop at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Rev. Shirley Carleton said a prayer in front of the church.

The procession then went east on Simcoe St. to Brock St. and then back over to St. John the Baptist Church.

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ was re-enacted on the front steps of the church, followed by concluding remarks and a blessing from Father Paul Kim.

Anna Donatucci, who helped organize the procession with husband Marino, said they thank all who had a hand in participating and allowing this year’s Good Friday procession to be held once again. She honoured those who started the procession and those who keep it going.

“A lot of people helped us along the way,” she told the congregation inside the church, following the procession.

While St. John the Baptist Church

hopes to keep the annual tradition going well into the future, they also had an eye towards the past.

“Those no longer with us, we keep them in our hearts,” said Donatucci.

“Resiliency” exhibit unveiled at the Park House Museum

By Ron Giofu

A new exhibit honouring the Indigenous community is now open at the Park House Museum.

The grand opening of “Resiliency” was unveiled last Wednesday morning at the museum’s Indigenous History Learning Gallery. Park House curator Kat Bezaire said the museum is “a settler’s site” and that it represents a role in the colonization of Essex County.

Museums are “deeply colonized,” she said but can change as times change.

“Museums can challenge their traditional views and mindsets,” said Bezaire.

Bezaire said museums should strive to be more inclusive sites, noting the Indigenous communities have shown resiliency in facing the challenges they have had for generations. That led to the name of the exhibit.

Indigenous artists are featured as part of the exhibit. Those include Lyndsy Trahan of Empty Shell Designs, Mark Peltier of Native Wonders and Crafts

and Zoe Litow Day of Wild Rabbit.

The plan originally was to unveil the “Resiliency” exhibit sooner, but repairs to the ceiling and roof delayed it.

Bezaire gave credit to former curator Stephanie Pouget-Papak for coming up with the concept for the exhibit. She added it will stay in its current form for at least one year but the museum is aiming to keep the concept of the exhibit

By Fred Groves

There was a round of applause in the Essex County council chambers last week from councillors, administration and staff as the long-awaited road rationalization study was presented and adopted.

“It’s the report we’ve been waiting for for years,” said Warden Hilda MacDonald.

Director of infrastructure and planning services Allan Botham presented the 75-page report that, over the next two to seven years will see the responsibility of 42.8 km of county roads either uploaded to the county or downloaded to one of the seven local municipalities.

“I’m happy we were able to pull it together for this term of council,” he said.

It was his final report to the county as the director as, after 4.5 years, he is leaving to take a job with his former employer, the Municipality of Leamington.

In his report he said that the road rationalization would be a multi-year transfer plan and would include all roads, bridges and culverts. When the actual transfers will occur is yet to be determined.

“We’ve considered the timing, and this sounds basic, but we landed on an agreement that any transfer should occur on a given year after a winter maintenance

season,” said Botham.

What this means to the Town of Amherstburg is that County Road 5 from County Road 18 to Alma St. will be declassified as a connecting link. County Road 5 (the Concession 2 North portion) from County Road 10 (Middle Side Road) to the ETR tracks will be transferred to Amherstburg and County Road 16 (Alma St.) from County Road 20 to County Road 5 (the Meloche Road portion) will be declassified as a connecting link.

“When it talks about recommended settlement or payout, which means when the connecting link is transferred to the local municipal partner, the county will transfer funds to cover the cost of future upgrades or could there be a cost to the local municipality?” asked Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb.

While Botham said there could be several options for financial implications, the county’s director of financial services/ treasurer Melissa Ryan commented the future cost of maintenance would be the responsibility of the municipality.

Ryan explained any road transferred would be expected to be in good condition.

“After that, it would be on the local municipality who got the road to start saving for the future which is a typical practice,” said Ryan.

up as a permanent installation to “challenge traditional beliefs and have new Indigenous creators get an opportunity show their art.

“We’re always open to Indigenous creators,” said Bezaire.

Theresa Sims, an Elder with the Ska:Na Learning Centre, said the Indigenous Peoples are creative.

“You give us something, we’ll make

something creative out of it,” said Sims. Sims said in the Indigenous culture, it is important to pass things on for the next seven generations. She added when she was young, it was illegal for her to speak her own language.

“We need allies,” said Sims. “We’re only three to four per cent of the population. We need supporters.”

The museum is located at 214 Dalhousie St. For information, call 519-736-2511 or www.parkhousemuseum.com.

Also in the report is the possibility of Concession 3 being uploaded.

Of the 42.8 km in the plan, 3.0 km will be uploaded to the county, 9.8 km uploaded to the county connecting link, 19.9 km removed from the county network and 10.1 from the county connecting link.

Botham said that the road rationalization was a collaborated plan by both local municipal and county staff.

“We did really dig into all of the details. Your teams and our team tried to

uncover every rock and stone we could and get into the details,” said Botham.

The current county road network was based on a roads needs study dating back to the early 1970’s and from that time to the 2000’s, 140 km of roads was transferred from the province to Essex County.

Speaking on the new report, LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche said, “this is the most regional thing we have done in the last three-and-a-half years.”

Community services officer warns against scams to seniors, others

By Ron Giofu

A seniors luncheon at Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) also served as an attempt to take a bite out of crime.

Const. Nick Dupuis, community services officer with the Windsor Police Service – Amherstburg Detachment, was at ACS recently and outlined a series of scams that have been used to take the money and identities of seniors, but people of all ages as well.

“Everyone gets caught in these things,” Dupuis told the room full of seniors. “It’s not just the senior community.”

Dupuis pointed out that just before he started speaking, he received an e-mail from someone claiming to be from Norton Anti-Virus, but he could tell based on the odd look of the link that was in the e-mail that it was not from Norton Anti-Virus but a scammer pretending to represent them.

Fraud is a crime of deception, said Dupuis, and tricks the victim into giving money away whereas theft is the outright taking of money. Fraud also features little to no violence or weapons but often results in more money being lost by the victim.

“Historically, there is less jail time with fraud than with theft,” said Dupuis.

Victims of a fraud are often too embarrassed to come forward, he added, but he tried to dissuade people from feeling that way.

“There is no shame in any of this stuff,” said Dupuis. “You shouldn’t be embarrassed. You shouldn’t be ashamed. You are the victim of a crime.”

Seniors are often targeted because they often live alone, have savings, are trusting and are less likely to call police, with the latter sometimes attributed to fear of reaction from friends and family members.

“It’s important you do report it,” said Dupuis. Many fraudsters run elaborate and sophisticated crime networks, he said, and are trained into tricking people to get what they want.

“Sometimes they don’t stop,” said Dupuis. “They are relentless.”

Dupuis urged the public not to give away money, ask friends and family for their opinions, contact the police if there are any questions or to contact their bank with questions or concerns.

“Don’t be so willing to give $500 or $1,000 away to an unknown person,” he said.

The “Grandparent Scheme” sees a scammer pretend to be an older person’s grandchild and the scammer often tricks the victim into saying their name and claims to be in trouble. The scammer will then try to get a person to send money quickly through methods such as gift cards, wire transfers or credit card numbers, also telling the victim to keep the transaction quiet.

Dupuis said bail is not paid through such means and anyone asking a person to lie to a bank, friends or family is committing fraud. He urged people to ask a lot of questions and if the person on the other end delays or gives vague answers – or doesn’t answer at all – to hang up and tell someone they trust what happened.

The “Romance Scam,” also known as catfishing, sees a scammer build trust using a fake identity and develops an online relationship. They create a crisis such as travel costs, medical bills or debt to explain why they can’t visit and then ask for money to help solve the problem, often demanding money on an ongoing basis.

Dupuis urged people to “watch for red flags” in such a relationship, including requests to communicate over different platforms and requests to keep the relationship a secret.

The “Repair Scam” involves a fraudster contacting a person claiming their computer or electronic device has a problem and asks for remote access to run “scans” or “diagnostics.” After gaining access, they simulate serious issues to make the so-called problem look real and then pressure the victim to check their bank accounts and provide credit card information and banking details to “fix” the issue.

“They’re looking for ways to steal your information,” said Dupuis.

Dupuis added: “If there is not a problem that you’re noticing, then there’s not a problem. If you have a computer problem, you will call someone. They won’t

call you.”

Online shopping scams involves a seller creating urgency, such as multiple interested parties, and the request for an upfront payment to “hold” the item. A red flag for people is if the seller refuses in-person verification, claims they’re out-of-town and will only ship after receiving money. Another red flag is to suggest a suspicious meeting arrangement.

A safe exchange location has been established in Amherstburg, he pointed out, with that being in the parking lot next to the police station. He added to stay alert, take precautions and avoid deals that seem too good to be true.

Phishing scams were also pointed out, with the public encouraged to be very careful about clicking on suspicious links or putting too much financial information online. There are websites created to look like a legitimate banking institution and often trick people into entering financial data. Dupuis urged people about not clicking links and to check for spelling and grammatical errors.

With tax time being here, scammers will also claim to be from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and trying to intimidate people stating they owe money to the government and stating police will be called if there is no payment.

“The CRA never requests payment over the phone,” said Dupuis. “Police don’t arrest people for taxes.”

Gift card frauds were also listed, with Dupuis telling people not to fall for it if they are requested to pay a balance of money with gift cards. He said scammers in those instances will use high pressure tactics and are willing to stay on the phone for lengthy periods until gift cards are purchased.

Dupuis also urged people to contact their credit card companies, banks and police if their documents are stolen or gone missing, as a way to avoid identity theft.

“Report theft of your documents right away,” he said. “Don’t wait.”

The public was also encouraged to be wary of people watching them at ATM’s and to not use an ATM if something appears to be suspicious with it.

“Nowadays, you shouldn’t give your card to anybody,” he said.

Dupuis ended by stating people shouldn’t be pressured into performing a transaction they feel uneasy with.

“Don’t give your money away, take your time, think about the situation and talk to someone.”

Passions, People & Possibilities Fair scheduled for Windsor this Saturday

By RTT Staff

The Windsor-Essex Family Network (WEFN) indicates an event they are planning was originally geared towards those with disabilities, but now the scope has expanded to anyone feeling alone and disconnected.

The first-ever Passions, People & Possibilities (PPP) Fair is this Saturday in

Windsor and features not only services and vendors from Windsor, but Essex County as well. It runs April 11 from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at the Fogolar Furlan Club, located at 1800 North Service Road, which the WEFN says will bring together people of all ages and abilities to explore hobbies, share passions, and connect.

Tina Szymczak, executive director of the Windsor-Essex Family Network, said

there are a lot of lonely people looking for those with common interests.

“The idea is to remove barriers,” she said. “People often tell us they feel isolated, but don’t know where to go to meet others who share their interests. The PPP Fair is designed to change that.”

Hosted by Windsor-Essex Family Network, the event is supported by the Chasing Hazel Foundation, Community Living Windsor, Community Living Essex County, Family Services Windsor-Essex, Family Respite Services, and Windsor Essex Brokerage for Personal Supports.

Szymczak said roughly 50 large, small and grassroots organizations are

scheduled to be in attendance. The PPP Fair focuses on people rather than products, the network stated. There will be tables showcasing hobbies, crafts, interests, and small businesses, many with interactive activities.

“Belonging shouldn’t be something people have to search for,” she said. “It should exist in everyday community spaces.”

Admission is free, with donations welcome to support Windsor-Essex Family Network.

“We’re hoping this will become yearly and we can move it around Essex County,” Szymczak added.

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Easter activities

Easter activities were held in Amherstburg last Friday and Saturday. Mason Waites (top row left) visits the Easter Bunny as does Paisley Beaudoin (bottom row, right) at the Libro Centre with Sophia Buratto enjoying her first Easter (top row, right). An Easter Egg Hunt was at Encounter Church and featured kids swarming the lawn (middle row, left) and Sawyer Kresky (middle row, right) and Mackenzee Murphy (bottom row, centre) picking up eggs. Oliver Pop enjoys himself (bottom row, left) while Allie and Madison Pietraszko colour (below).

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Promotions, donations part of cadets’ Commanding Officer’s parade

By RTT Staff

It was an important night for the 202nd Fort Malden Windsor Regiment Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps last Wednesday.

The 202 Fort Malden RCACC trains out of North Star High School in Amherstburg and the evening included promotions, awards and a donation.

The evening also featured the Commanding Officers’ Parade and following that, the local cadet corps received a $5,000 donation from Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157.

The 202 Fort Malden RCACC operates under the umbrella of the Amherstburg Legion. Br. 157 president Shawn Wilkie said the $5,000 cheque was to help the cadet corps in its operations and training.

“It’s an honour to have the Royal Canadian Army Cadets affiliated with our Legion,” said Wilkie.

The promotions that took place as part of the evening included:

Corporal to Master Corporal MCpl Foreman-Neil

Sergeant to Warrant Officer

WO Abraham

WO Cliff

WO Major

Cadet of The Month Award Trooper Rau

Commanding officer Capt. Stefan Miller was also honoured as part of the night, with Major C. Mackenzie-Haines CD on hand to help present Miller with

the medal.

The 202 Fort Malden RCACC trains Wednesday nights at North Star High School from 6:30-9 p.m.

Rising costs expected if Essex County takes over CWATS

By Fred Groves

Essex’s County’s County Wide Active Transportation System (CWATS) is going through a transformation that could see a division in who pays for new infrastructure.

Manager of transportation, planning and development Jerry Behl outlined a new plan that would have the county assuming all CWATS infrastructure as part of Essex County council’s April 1 meeting.

“Once infrastructure is built, we will

finalize who owns, maintains and replaces the CWATS infrastructure,” said Behl.

Signed routes, bike lanes, paved shoulders, multi-use paths and trails are all part of the CWATS.

Amherstburg currently has 43.6 total km of the infrastructure and pays about $223,664 to maintain them.

That is broken up locally to 5.3 km of multi-use, 6.8 km of bike lanes, 22 km of paved shoulders and 9.6 km of signed routes.

According to Behl, there is a cost share for new infrastructure as part of the

county’s Official Plan. The county pays for 40 per cent in rural areas and local municipalities pay for 60 per cent. The county pays for it all in urban areas.

“We aren’t looking to change that. We’re just looking at, once it’s built who owns it, maintains it, replaces it?” said Behl. CWATS began in 2012 and some of the infrastructure may need replacement.

“I know it was a discussion we had in the past that we are putting in all these great trails throughout the communities without a plan on how we are going to replace them in the future,” said LaSalle

Mayor Crystal Meloche. Behl said that one of the benefits of the county assuming ownership is to provide the county with full control over longterm capital planning and replacement timing and that annual levy-supported contributions would be required.

Based on the 2025 CWATS Asset Management Plan, the budget for CWATS last year was $957,400. It jumped to $3.57 million this year and is projected to be $4.75 million in 2027 and under the new plans, over $7 million in 2034.

Continued on Page 15

Amherstburg poet releasing book for Poetry Month

By Ron Giofu

National Poetry Month is coming up in April and an Amherstburg poet is releasing a new book just in time for it.

“The Blue Gate” is coming out next month with the book launch being April 26. Kathryn MacDonald wrote the poems featured in the upcoming release and said the book explores the “surprise of love, the shock of loss and challenges boundaries and liminal spaces.”

It is being released by Frontenac House Poetry.

“It’s a narrative. It’s a story about love,” MacDonald told the RTT.

There is emotion and imagery inside the book, she said, and the poetry is based out of her experiences starting when she first lived in eastern Ontario, prior to moving to Amherstburg.

MacDonald called it “a memoir”

and pointed out she was invited to go to Kenya with friends shortly after her husband passed away. Her friends ended up not being able to go, but MacDonald still went and met a guide who became a friend while in the African country.

They opened their hearts to one another and she learned there are different worlds, including the one

she was grieving in.

“It’s a story about life,” she said of the new poetry book.

The story “The Blue Gate” was once written in prose but MacDonald switched to poetry.

“Prose couldn’t handle the realism,” she said. “Poetry is my first love. Poetry is very important to me.”

National Poetry Month is “something to look forward to,” she added, and that she is “very, very excited to see the new releases.”

MacDonald will team up with local author Marty Gervais for the book launch, which will be from 2-4 p.m. at River Bookshop.

MacDonald will be reading from “The Blue Gate” while Gervais will be reading from his new book. MacDonald is also releasing another new book entitled “Wayside: A Small boat, A Vacant Lot, A Man.”

Area author debuts new fantasy-themed book

By Ron Giofu

A new fantasy-themed book was released at a recent book launch and signing event.

Elly Blake’s latest book “The Cursed Queen’s Daughter” is the second in her “Thirstwood” series.

The first book in the current series is “The Forest King’s Daughter” but “The Cursed

Queen’s Daughter” was the book that was the subject of the most recent launch.

“I wrote a trilogy a few years ago,” Blake said in reference to her New York Times bestselling Frostblood Saga. “Now I’m writing a new one.”

Blake said her original trilogy was written in the 2017-18 time period.

Continued on Page 15

Four people inducted into Essex County Agricultural Hall of Fame

Continued from Page 1

McBeth was a high school teacher and coach for 33 years but still worked with his father and uncle on the farm. His farming background led to him teaching that in the classroom as well during part of his career. He became a partner in the farm with his uncle after his father’s sudden passing in 1984. His biography added this led to updating the farm machinery from 1960’s size to 1980’s size. He used no-till and minimum till practices and also used rock chutes on waterways and grass strips around the fields to cut down on weed infiltration.

In the community, McBeth sat on the Essex Social Planning Council and chaired it for four years. He was credited for being the first chair of the committee for nurse practitioner clinics in Essex and Amherstburg. McBeth is also an Essex Rotarian, travelling with wife Cheryl around southwestern Ontario, a number of U.S. states and humanitarian trips to Ghana, India, Nigeria and Haiti. He was also a member of the board of Essex United Church and the Rotary Foundation.

McBeth’s Hall of Fame sponsor was Colchester Farms.

“I’m very humbled by the recognition,” he said. “I was very fortunate to have had parents that embraced farm life.”

Noting he joins his father on the Hall of Fame wall, McBeth said he was taught to be community-minded and to give back to the community. He joked that he became a full-time farmer with a hobby of teaching high school. When his father died, McBeth said he relied on his uncle’s insight and the advice of mentors to help

keep it going and never stop learning.

McBeth added his life in education, agriculture and Rotary has led him to meet people he otherwise never would have had a chance to meet.

Walter McLean was inducted posthumously, represented by his family including wife Collette, son Cole and daughter-in-law Alyssa Thibodeau.

McLean, who passed away in 2024, was raised on the family farm in Harrow and went to Kingsville for high school. He learned farming from his father Murray and began as a dairy farmer and also grew tomatoes for Heinz.

After he stopped growing tomatoes, McLean continued cash cropping along with growing seed corn under contract until the U.S. withdrew production in 2000. After his father’s passing, he farmed with Cole. He was married to Collette for 34 years. They met while she was working as an agronomist for Cyanamid Canada when her work took her to the Harrow Research Station.

McLean went on to work at the Harrow Research Station for 36 years for Agriculture and Agrifood Canada. He worked as a technician and then moved into the shop, eventually moving to the Woodslee substation. For 23 of the 36 years, his biography added he was farm foreman of agricultural operations in Harrow.

Among the farm organizations McLean was part of was a director with ECFA, a past president and director with the Harrow and Colchester South Agricultural Society including general manager of the Harrow Fair from 201824. He was described as a dedicated volunteer with the fair, spending many hours managing committees and organizing events.

McLean was also a member of the GFO.

In the community, McLean was a member of Harrow United Church’s board of directors from 2013-19. The Government of Canada recognized him for his 35 years of service and he

also received the Agricultural Service Diploma for Meritorious Service to the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies.

McLean was sponsored by the Harrow and Colchester South Agricultural Society.

Collette McLean thanked the Hall of Fame for inducting her husband. She also gave thanks to the Harrow Fair board.

“Those we love never leave us,” she said. “They simply find new ways to show up.”

Cole added his thanks for the honour, saying it means a lot to the family. The Harrow Fair was a big part of his life, Cole added, and another part of his father’s life he’ll always remember was all the fun they had.

“Dad was always a people person,” he said.

Rochelle Deslippe was the fourth honouree. The Amherstburg resident attended the University of Guelph and Ridgetown College of Agriculture. She also worked on the family farm in Malden Centre with her father Jerome raising Tom turkeys and has spent much of her life working in agribusiness throughout Ontario.

Farming has become a family affair, with sons John and Keith and daughter Mary working as a team on the farm. Her sons are currently raising sheep. They have also done plot work for the Essex Soil and Crop Association and in cooperation with Agriculture Canada have completed farm bug counts, completed Nematode Research as well as plot work on soybeans and corn. Their farm has been a demonstration farm for ERCA/ESCIA.

Continued on Page 13

Our plan to protect Ontario is building new nuclear facilities

As Canada stares down economic uncertainty, we’re ready with a plan to protect Ontario. We’re building the first small modular reactors in the G7, and the first large-scale nuclear facilities in decades. Creating 150,000 new jobs.

That’s how we protect Ontario.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WORD SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to driving.

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, you are catching a second wind this week that could rival a hurricane. No one can slow you down right now. Channel this energy into a passion project.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, your eye for recognizing the beauty in things or items that are fashionable is unmatched. This week is the perfect time to curate your space or your wardrobe.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, the connections in your brain are firing at a rapid pace this week. It is only a matter of time before you solve a problem that has been plaguing you and everyone for weeks.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

You are feeling more secure in your skin this week, Cancer. People are flocking to you for comfort and advice because you give off a warm energy.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, accept recognition for your hard work when it comes your way in the coming days. Don’t be humble; take the bow that you have earned over these last few months.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

Everything is falling into place for you now, Virgo. Your routine feels like something you can do with your eyes closed. Find the perfect shortcut this week.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

A friend of a friend is about to become a very important person in your life, Libra. It’s important to keep your heart open to all possibilities. An unexpected invitation pops up.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, you don’t have to try to impress. People are mesmerized by you. You can use this charm to negotiate for something you want this week. A welcome surprise pops up midweek.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Your thirst for knowledge leads you to a new obsession, Sagittarius. Diving into a new hobby, career path or volunteer experience could be the way to go.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, you are making the impossible look easy right now. Take a moment to see how far you have come and review your accomplishments.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Your innovative ideas are officially trending around the office or workplace, Aquarius. Don’t be afraid to lead the pack, as everyone is just trying to keep up.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Pisces, you are walking on sunshine this week. Your creative output is at an all-time high. Paint, write, sing, or engage in anything else you enjoy.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

APRIL 5 - Pharrell Williams, Producer (53)

APRIL 6 - Peyton List, Actress (28)

APRIL 7 - Russell Crowe, Actor (62)

APRIL 8 - Matty Healy, Singer (37)

APRIL 9 - Leighton Meester, Actress (40)

APRIL 10 - David Harbour, Actor (51)

APRIL 11 - Jennifer Esposito, Actress (53)

World Autism Day flag raised at town hall

By Ron Giofu

World Autism Day was observed last week in Amherstburg.

Members of the local chapter of Autism Ontario were at the Amherstburg Municipal Building last Thursday morning along with members of town council. Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb noted last Thursday, April 2, was World Autism Day and the flag raising was done in support of those on the autism spectrum and their families. That included families both in the Amherstburg community and all across Ontario, he said.

The deputy mayor noted Autism Ontario has had 50 years as a leading voice to promote autism awareness. He said their work has led people on the autism spectrum to have a more full life.

Michael Girard, care co-ordinator with Autism Ontario, stated the flag is a “symbol of inclusion and belonging.” He said he has been with Autism Ontario for five years and in the developmental services (DS) sector for 25, and gets excited to promote the cause.

Raising the flag celebrates autism awareness and makes those with autism and their families feel more welcome.

According to www.celebratethespectrum.com, “Celebrate the Spectrum is an opportunity for positive action to provide spaces of support and advocacy for our diverse communities — while learning about autism and how we can all make our communities better and more inclusive places for autistic people.

Like Autism Ontario’s previous campaigns for World Autism Day, Celebrate the Spectrum invites families, schools, communities, and organizations

to collectively recognize World Autism Day by celebrating autistic individuals while also highlighting the systemic barriers that need to be addressed to create a more supportive and inclusive Ontario. The website notes: “Autism Ontario is the province’s largest collective voice representing the autism community, supporting thousands of families across the province through its seven Regions, who provide committed and skilled expertise and guidance to their local communities. We provide information on autism, support autism research, implement programs and services for the autism community, and aim to support and advocate for all children, youth, and adults on the autism spectrum and their families across the province, regardless of race, ethnicity, income, religion, or gender identity.”

Wolves girls soccer team settles for 3-3 tie with Essex

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves girls soccer team battled hard in their first game and came away with a tie.

The Wolves hosted the Essex Red Raiders last Wednesday afternoon at the Libro Centre, with the April Fool’s Day weather being no joke as there were cold temperatures and blustery conditions. The Wolves also battled injury during the game as they lost starting goalkeeper Lexi Gignac to injury.

North Star got off to a fast start and built a 3-1 lead, but Essex stormed back and managed to tie the game shortly before the final whistle.

Wolves coach Saverio Asta said he saw some good things from the North Star team. He noted this year’s Wolves team is a young group but they came out strong against the Red Raiders. He believed they came prepared to play

against Essex but things happened during the game they didn’t expect and they settled for the tie.

“They played with determination all the way to the end,” said Asta. “That’s what I want to see all year round.”

The weather was cold but Asta pointed out both teams had to battle the elements.

Asta expressed confidence in all of the girls this season and has big plans for the 2026 WECSSAA “A/AA” soccer season.

“My expectation is for this team to go all the way,” said Asta. “I have confidence they can go all the way.”

The team will look for ways to improve after last Wednesday afternoon’s game versus Essex and resume action this week with a pair of matches. They hosted the Belle River Nobles Tuesday afternoon (April 7) at the Libro Centre after this issue of the River Town Times went to press. They are on the road this Thursday (April 9) at L’Essor.

The Wolves’ next home game is April 14 against Ste. Cecile.

All games this season start at 4 p.m.

North Star boys soccer team loses its opening game of the season

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves boys soccer team opened the 2026 WECSSAA “A/AA” boys soccer season with a result they didn’t really want.

The Wolves hosted the Erie Migration Coyotes last Thursday afternoon at the Libro Centre in Amherstburg. The Coyotes earned the 3-1 victory.

Erie Migration took a 1-0 lead but Max Ricciuti tied the game later in the first half for North Star. The Coyotes added two more goals to round out the scoring.

“I’m happy with the team’s effort,” said coach Griffin Muzzin.

There are five players in either Grade 11 or Grade 12, Muzzin added, with the other 11 players in either Grade 9 or Grade 10.

Muzzin said he believes the Wolves can make some noise this soccer season.

“I’m excited for this season,” he said.

The playoffs are the goal this season, Muzzin added, and he stated if that happens, they will go from there.

“We’ve got a lot to work on,” said Ricciuti.

Ricciuti said they have heart but the Wolves have to work on their technique and soccer IQ. He added they played “too soft” against Erie Migration and

they have to play stronger and fight harder for the ball.

Goalkeeper Ryan Reid noted it was the first game they played together and they still have to work on a lot as a young group. He also added they want to make the WECSSAA playoffs this season.

“If we get there, who knows what could happen?” said Reid.

Ricciuti added they want to work on their defensive technique and positioning as well as how to support their teammates. Reid said they have holes and they can get better if all 11 players on the field work as a team.

The Wolves are in action twice this week, with one game occurring after this issue of the River Town Times went to press. The Wolves were in Leamington Tuesday afternoon (April 7) to take on the Lions with another Leamington school, the Cardinal Carter Cougars, coming to the Libro Centre this Thursday (April 9). After Thursday’s game, the Wolves don’t play again until April 21 when they host L’Essor.

All games are at 4 p.m.

Admirals announce arrival of assistant coaches to join Bortignon behind bench

By Fred Groves

There will be some very familiar faces behind the bench this year for the Amherstburg Admirals.

Joining recently announced head coach Paul Bortignon will be Marc Crevier and Steve Spada. Crevier was with Bortignon in the past as an assistant coach and local hockey fans will know Spada as a former player with the Admirals and the Kingsville Comets.

“He (Crevier) was a defenceman and he’s always been a defensive coach. He brings a lot of experience and he can step right in,” said Admirals’ GM Andrew Sykes.

Crevier won a Schmalz Cup as a player back in the 1980’s and went on to coach for many years not only

with the Admirals but the Leamington Flyers. Sykes said the fact that he and Bortignon have worked together is a huge bonus.

“In talking with Paul, he’s excited to have Crev back. We are fortunate to have guys come in and not miss a beat.”

Crevier will have a potentially strong defense on the blueline which will be led by returnees Jake Gourdreault, who was an all-star last year, along with Cooper Bulmer and Freddie McCroy. In all, seven of last year’s defensemen are eligible to return.

Spada comes in with little coaching experience, but Sykes says he will bring positive energy to the team and work primarily with the forwards.

“One of the big things for him will

be player relations. We think he’ll be great talking with the players, he’s an outgoing person.”

A veteran of five Jr. C seasons, Spada had 55 points including 28 goals after playing three years with the Kingsville Comets and was part of the transition group when the franchise moved over to Amherstburg. He was an assistant captain when they took the Essex 73’s to the finals in 2015. In 136 regular season games, he had 498 minutes in penalties.

This past weekend the Admirals announced that Chad Boucher joins the team as the third assistant coach. He has 25 years of coaching experience, most recently with the U18 Windsor Junior Spitfires as well as being a scout for the Chatham Maroons Jr. B team.

Spada, Crevier, Boucher and Bortignon will get their first look at the future Admirals May 11 and 13 when they have their spring training camp in Tecumseh.

Under last year’s coaching crew of Zack Gervais, Jake Archer and Justin Toth the Admirals went 15-21-6-0 and eliminated the Mooretown Flags in the first round of the Provincial Junior Hockey League West Stobbs Division playoffs.

SLAPSHOTS: Former Admirals Landon Prince, Dallas Kelly and Lukas Boudreau are part of the Lakeshore Canadiens, who won the PJHL Stobbs Division championship April 2. The Canadiens beat the Essex 73’s in Game 7 that night by a final score of 5-2.

FRIDAY, APRIL 17

Community Calendar

CHARITY HOCKEY GAME; Amherstburg Fire Department to take on the Essex Fire Department in game to be played at Essex Centre Sports Complex, 60 Fairview Ave. W. in Essex, starting at 7 p.m. Bring a non-perishable food item. Proceeds to be split between the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission and the Essex Food Bank.

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

DINNER & COMEDY SHOW; Save African Child Uganda (SACU) hosting “Laugh Your Socks Off!” dinner and comedy show at the Columbian Club in McGregor (9560 Walker Road) to benefit SACU’s education and nutrition programs. Comedy show features Leo Dufour, Jonny P and Keith Lenart. Dinner is chicken, pasta with tomato sauce, salad, butter & roll, and dessert. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. Cash bar. Raffles and a lottery board. Tickets $50. Visit www. sacuganda.org, e-transfer to bwestfall@sacuganda.org. For info, call Ingrid at 519-990-5514.

SATURDAY, APRIL 18 & SUNDAY, APRIL 19

BOOKS & BREWS; Presented by the Marsh Historical Collection but held at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. (8728 Howard Ave.) in Amherstburg. Second-hand book sale fundraiser from 12-8 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. Sunday. Live entertainment featuring Lauren Victoria Saturday at 3 p.m. and Bethany D’Alimonte Sunday at 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, APRIL 24 & SATURDAY, APRIL 25

RUMMAGE SALE; Held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. Runs Friday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Books, clothing, housewares, pictures, dishes and more. If people wish to donate items, call 519-995-6957 before April 21 to arrange pick-up.

SATURDAY, APRIL 25

EARTH DAY; Bryerswood Youth Camp hosting Earth Day activities from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Camp located at 6480 Texas Road in Amherstburg. Solar cooking, seed planting and giveaways, composting worms, bird appreciation, nesting box workshop, electric vehicles, tree planting, battery and pop can recycling, yard sale, pony rides. Free for all ages.

SUNDAY, APRIL 26

BRYERSWOOD OPEN HOUSE; Held at Bryerswood Youth Camp, 6480 Texas Road (between Concession 6 North

and Howard Ave.) in Amherstburg. Opportunities to view the camp, learn about programs and rental opportunities, play games, do a craft, and meet the Bryerswood team. Free to attend. Runs from 12-3 p.m.

ONGOING

YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Donations needed to make hats, mittens, scarves and blankets for the homeless and for hospitals. Also, volunteers making beds for cats and dogs at the Windsor-Essex County Humane Society. Please bring yarn donations to Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 in Amherstburg or phone Deb for pick-up at 519-995-4057. Thank you in advance!

COMMUNITY DINNER; Community dinners hosted every Thursday at 5 p.m. at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St. Held in partnership with Feeding Windsor-Essex. Free to attend, everyone welcome.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission needs volunteers. Cleaners required Monday-Friday from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Dishwashers needed Thursdays (and to fill in, as needed) from 1:30-3:30 p.m. Maintenance people needed Monday-Saturday as needed for building maintenance. Help also required to organize special events and fundraisers. For info, e-mail Jill at aburgmission@yahoo.com or visit www.aburgmission.ca.

ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at The Fort Fun Centre, 689 Texas Road. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@ gmail.com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

GIBSON GALLERY EVENTS; Latest exhibit is “Artists of Art Create Learn” magazine. Runs April 9-26 with opening reception April 12 from 2-4 p.m. For more information on the exhibit or adult/children’s classes offered by the gallery, visit www.gibsonartgallery.com or call 519-7362826. The Gibson Gallery is located at 140 Richmond St. in Amherstburg. Current hours are Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hubs Windsor-Essex holds mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre, 320 Richmond St. (Amherstburg Community Hub). Runs every

Thursday from 2-6 p.m. Free for people ages 12-25. For details, call 519-800-8640.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Healthy, delicious and affordable meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle. ACS caters to dietary needs. Meals come with soup, bread, main course and dessert. Cost $8 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.

QUILT GUILD MEETINGS; The Erie Shores Quilt Guild invites guests/new members to attend monthly meeting held every third Tuesday at St. John’s Hall, 1782 Oriole Park, North Woodslee. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., meeting starts at 7 p.m. Our purpose is to promote and encourage the art of quilting in Essex County. 519-726-5869.

RIVER CANARD COLUMBIAN CLUB EVENTS; Charity bingo Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Chicken or rib dinner first Friday of every month. Eat-in or take-out. Call before Wednesday to order call 519-734-8575. Dinner from 4:30-6 p.m. Hall located at 8965 Malden Road. Hall space available for rent for showers, weddings, birthdays, stags and more. For info, call 519-734-8575.

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; The Columbus Community Hall at 190 Richmond St. has bingos Thursday nights and fish fries (with chicken as well) Friday nights. Everyone welcome to come and enjoy the evening. Sr. parties every second Tuesday at 3 p.m. except in July and August. For info, call 519-736-4870.

SERVICE TIME; Christ Anglican Church, 317 Ramsay St., now has one service, starting at 11 a.m. All are welcome.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CHURCH SERVICES; Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda, 2953 Olinda Side Road in Ruthven. Rev. Paul Langston-Daley to speak on “Both Sides of the Fence” April 12. Service start at 10:30 a.m. For info, call 548-324-4352. All are welcome.

AMHERSTBURG RESIDENTS FORUM; Group welcomes residents seeking solutions to town hall to join them the last Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall at 140 Pickering Dr., across from Walmart.

GOLDEN AGE CLUB; The Golden Age Club, Amherstburg’s friendship club, located at 179 Victoria St. S., offers social activities five days a week, $10 a year to join. Over 160 members have fun playing euchre, pepper, bingo, cribbage, mahjong, bridge and line dancing. Club crochets mats from milk bags for those in need. We also have three luncheons and a Christmas party. You pick which activities you want to participate in. Visit www.goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.

FOUNDERS CLUB; Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club (BYCOC) seeking donors to join the “Founders Club” to help fund general operations of the camp. Donors with gifts of $5,000 and over become “Founders Club” members and have one square of camp property sponsored in their name. Multiple squares available. Tax receipts provided. For info, visit www.bryerswood.com, call 519-996-7364 or e-mail info@bryerswood.com.

MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open from 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. with free lunch from 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m.-11:45 a.m. and 1-2:45 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www. aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

VOLUNTEERS AND ALUMINUM CANS NEEDED AT BRYERSWOOD; Community service volunteer hours are available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. Please contact info@bryerswood. com. Camp is accepting donations of aluminum cans. Drop by the camp Monday-Friday 12:30-4 p.m. with donations.

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. People who wish to donate empties can drop them off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

AMHERSTBURG COMMUNITY SERVICES; Located at 320 Richmond St., 519-736-5471. Meals on Wheels, CareLink Accessible Transportation, Senior Support, Keep The Heat, Ontario Energy Support Program & more. Please call to see how we can help! Food bank runs Tuesday, Thursday, Friday with curbside pickup available.

Amherstburg represented among Hall of Fame inductees

Continued from Page 8

Deslippe has been a member of many farm organizations, including the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum, her nominator. She has had a long association with Essex County Plowman and was president in 2024. She started as a plowman and was Queen of the Furrow four times between 1983-1987. From 1990-2007, she did media relations and points tabulation, served as a steward and a board member from 2019-24.

In the Essex County 4-H, Deslippe received provincial honours as a member in agriculture and homemaking. She served as a leader, board member and as the secretary of screening and coordinator of training.

She was also a Junior Farmers member. Since 2007, she has been a member of the Essex County Agricultural Hall

of Fame and president in 2024.

Deslippe has been a lector at several churches, a member of the House of Shalom from 1979-2007, a leader from 1981-84 and a board member from 2006-2011. She has played baseball at Malden Park, a scouting leader and a Karate second degree black belt in Legacy Shorin Rya. She is currently an instructor. She also has been involved with Haflinger horses as showman and driver.

Deslippe said she was deeply grateful for the induction to the Hall of Fame, giving thanks to her parents and family. She also recognized the large crowd last Thursday night in Harrow.

“There are a lot of pioneers here,” she said. “I’m proud to be part of it.”

Deslippe recalled her mother stating there is nothing

a person is not capable of. She acknowledged all the support she has had in her life.

“I’m very thankful and grateful for all of the support,” she said. “It’s about what we all accomplish together.”

Mentorship is very important, Deslippe added, that people in agriculture meet great people wherever they go.

“We have a lot to be proud of,” said Deslippe.

Passing traditions and knowledge to the next generation is also key, she said.

“We need to encourage people to continue to grow, to continue to innovate,” she said. “I’ve loved every aspect of learning about agriculture.”

Additional photos from last Thursday night’s induction ceremony are on our website at www.rivertowntimes.com and our social media pages.

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EVENT SPACE FOR RENT

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“ARE YOU SAVED?”

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SCRAMBLE ANSWER STEER

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LEARN TO SEW

RUMMAGE SALE

SPRING RUMMAGE

SALE. 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg, ON, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Friday, April 24, 10am-4pm. Saturday, April 25, 9am-2pm. Come find your tresures at our Spring Rummage Sale and enjoy looking for books, men’s and ladies clothing, housewares, pictures, dishes and so much more. If you wish to donate items, please call 519-995-6957 before April 21st to arrange pick-up.

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

2 APARTMENTS FOR RENT – 863 Marentette (Windsor) • 3-Bedroom Unit – $1,500/month (inclusive) • Bachelor Unit – $800/month (inclusive). Details: Available immediately. First and last month’s rent required. Credit report required with completed application. Serious inquiries only.

Please call 226.961.3323 for more information or to arrange a viewing.

THE BASICS OF SEWING: a 4-week course; reading patterns, common stitches, seam finishes, fabric selection. Wednesdays (Apr 8, 15, 29 and May 6), 5:30-6:30pm. $175 St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. Call or email to register; space is limited. tammyjoho@gmail.com 514-999-0245

FOR RENT

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FOR SALE BY TENDER INVESTMENT PROPERTY

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APARTMENT FOR RENT: NEW RENO

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Conservative MPs gather to discuss Bill C-9 at open house

By Ron Giofu

Approximately 200 people attended a town hall meeting to discuss and voice concerns with the Liberal government’s proposed Bill C-9, a bill aimed at hate propaganda, hate crimes and access to religious or cultural places.

After meeting with regional faith leaders earlier in the day, Conservative MPs met with the crowd of concerned residents at the Ciociaro Club March 31. The guest speaker was Elgin-St. Thomas-London South MP Andrew Lawton and he was joined by Conservative colleagues including Essex MP Chris Lewis, WindsorTecumseh MP Kathy Borrelli, Windsor West MP Harb Gill and Chatham-Kent-Leamington MP Dave Epp.

Preserving freedom of expression and religious freedoms was of concern at the open house, with Lawton indicating his belief the bill will infringe on people’s fundamental rights. He believes the bill, which is currently in the senate, will remove protections that people of faith have had for years.

CWATS costs could grow

Ctd. from Page 6

According to director of finance Melissa Ryan, 2027 will see a deficit of $3 million and currently there is no money in reserves.

“I do hope at some point we can revisit the cost sharing agreement when it comes to the CWATS trails,” said Meloche.

Behl expects a final report to be presented to county council in the next three to four months.

Lawton said there are existing laws that are on the books to protect Canadians against hate crimes and that new laws will not fix the

problem. He said the “laws are there” but the political leadership isn’t always there.

“People of faith have the right to freedom of expression,” he said.

According to Lawton, the only reason the bill got through the House of Commons was because the Liberals made a deal with the Bloc Quebecois.

“The fight is not over,” he vowed. “Bill C-9 cannot be allowed to pass. You can’t negotiate people’s rights and freedoms.”

Lawton contended no faith community is protected by this legislation.

“If you don’t have freedom of expression, you don’t have anything,” he said.

Lewis said his office has been “inundated” with people concerned about Bill C-9. He also believed it will infringe on people’s rights and freedoms, “especially on religion.”

The open house was “fantastic,” he added.

Borrelli said “we saw (Bill C-9) as wrong” and she wanted to have Lawton come to the area.

“We want to maintain our rights and freedoms.”

According to the Canadian Department of Justice’s website: “Bill C-9 would amend the Criminal Code to propose new offences to better protect access to religious, cultural and other specified places, and to address hatemotivated crimes. The proposed amendments in the Bill

would create four new criminal offences: (1) an intimidation offence that prohibits conduct that is intended to provoke a state of fear in another person to impede them from accessing religious or cultural institutions and other specified places; (2) an offence that prohibits the intentional obstruction of a person’s lawful access to such places; (3) a hate crime offence to more explicitly denounce hate-motivated crime; and (4) an offence that prohibits wilfully promoting hatred against any identifiable group by displaying, in any public place, certain hate or terrorist symbols. A definition of ‘hatred’ would also be added to the Criminal Code to clarify the type of conduct captured by the new hate crime offence and existing hate propaganda offences. The Bill proposes other amendments to the Criminal Code, including adding some of the new proposed offences to the existing scheme governing the interception of private communications, forensic DNA analysis and making release orders (bail) with conditions.”

New fantasy-themed book recently released by area author

Continued from Page 7

“The Cursed Queen’s Daughter is a young adult fantasy and the synopsis of the book is “Thea, a fierce warrior princess raised in endless war, wants only to become her father’s First Huntsman—until enchanted gowns begin appearing in her home. Drawn in by their dark magic, she’s transported to a forgotten shadow realm ruled by a dangerously charming prince who may know what happened to her missing mother. All he asks in return is for Thea to dance with him, their dangerous attraction

growing each time she returns for more information. Meanwhile, shadows are seeping into the living realm, and Thea may have to embrace her own darkness if she has any chance of saving her beloved sisters and home from an otherworldly threat.”

The concept for Blake writing fairytales started in 2020 when she was reading books in the genre. Her father came up with the idea of writing a fairytale and “The Forest King’s Daughter” was written.

Now, “The Cursed Queen’s Daughter” is a

follow-up to that.

Blake and her family live in Harrow and she has worked for the Essex County Library for 15 years. Her book signing event at the River Bookshop also featured a reading and a Q&A. Blake added she grew up in Colchester and while she loves her home community, she also enjoys coming to Amherstburg.

“I love my town and I love Amherstburg too,” said Blake. For more information, please visit www.ellyblake.com.

Answer

Special In-Camera Council Mtg 4pm Regular Council Mtg Town Hall 6pm

Amherstburg Accessibility Advisory Committee Mtg Town Hall 5pm

Co-An Park Advisory Committee Mtg Co-An Park 5pm

2026 Pre-Election Candidate Info Session - County of Essex, 6pm Heritage Committee Mtg Town Hall 5:30pm

Drop-In Tai Chi @ the Libro 1-2pm amherstburg ca/ be active Get your Dog Tags by April 30 amherstburg ca/ doglicence

Drop-In Tai Chi @ Libro $6/person $5/senior 1-2pm amherstburg.ca/ beactive Economic Development Advisory Committee Mtg Town Hall 5pm Yard Waste South Zone Yard Waste North Zone Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee Mtg Town Hall 5pm

Follow 2026 Election updates: amherstburg.ca /election Amherstburg Earth Day Activities Map & Grow 9am Tree Planting 9am amherstburg.ca /earthday