River Town Times - March 11, 2026

Attracting doctors, clinics discussed at town council

By Ron Giofu

Getting more medical services and doctors in Amherstburg remains a priority for town council and many of its residents.

Town council is pledging to work with health professionals in the area, residents and the province so that more doctors and nurses come to town.

Representatives of the Windsor-Essex Ontario Health Team (WEOHT), which includes local health organizations like the Amherstburg Family Health Team (AFHT) among a large roster of health care partners, attended town council Monday night where they went over their efforts to attract physicians to the region. Those representatives included Dr. Ken Blanchette, WEOHT CEO Joyce Zuk and Dr. Tim O’Callahan, with other professionals joining them either as part of the delegation or in the council chambers.

The WEOHT is comprised of over 40 healthcare organizations, community support services, hospitals, home and community care providers, lived experience partners and primary care providers providing services in urban and rural settings, Blanchette noted. Zuk said their data shows 15 total primary care practitioners in Amherstburg, with 12 being primary care physicians and three rostering nurse practitioners. There are also two walk-in clinics, she said. Statistics shared by Zuk showed 7.9 per cent of Amherstburg residents not attached to primary care. That compares to 7.8 per cent in Essex, 16.3 per cent in Kingsville, 23 per cent in Leamington, 9.7 per cent in Lakeshore, 7.2 per cent in Tecumseh, 8.3 per cent in LaSalle and 12. 4 per cent in Windsor.

The goal is to have everyone attached to a primary healthcare provider by 2029, Zuk added.

“We’ve been addressing this as a municipality for a long time,” said Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb. “How can we help you help us?”

Continued on Page 4

Minister visits new long-term care site

By Ron Giofu

Ontario’s minister of long-term care was in Amherstburg last week to get a look at the new longterm care home under construction.

Chateau Park Long-Term Care Home is moving to the building currently under construction at 140 Fryer St., at the corner of Richmond St., and it was learned during Minister Natalia Kusendova-Bashta’s visit last Wednesday afternoon that the home is roughly 25 per cent complete.

Kusendova-Bashta highlighted the jobs associated with the new long-term care home and the financing of it as well. Chateau Park Long-Term Care Home is currently in Windsor and has 59 beds, but will have 160 beds once it opens in Amherstburg. The anticipated opening date for the redeveloped long-term home is mid-2027.

The project is expected to support roughly 370 jobs and more than 200 permanent long-term care positions

once the home opens. Kusendova-Bashta pointed out the efforts to make that happen, including Riverdale Living and the ARCH Corporation, the contractors as well the Building Ontario Fund (BOF), the latter who assisted with the financing.

The ministry said this home is a recipient of the ministry’s construction funding subsidy top-up and is additionally financed through Building Ontario Fund (BOF) in partnership with Manulife. BOF plays a critical role in advancing revenue-generating infrastructure development in Ontario by catalyzing investment in priority projects. Arch Corporation has partnered with BOF to develop long-term care homes in smaller communities.

“As you can see, it takes a village,” said KusendovaBashta. “As minister, I can’t do, I can’t do it alone.”

The long-term care minister added “we’re marking a significant milestone for Amherstburg” and that “we are building for the future to create good-paying jobs and support stronger, more resilient communities.”

Continued on Page 4

Fraserville residents voice concern about proposed development in area

By Ron Giofu

Proposed Official Plan and zoning bylaw amendments for a possible development in the Fraserville section of Amherstburg are the source of strong opposition for residents who live in that area.

Piroli Developments is proposing a third phase to their developments in that area, this one being 48 new residential units on a new street off of Brunner Ave. The proposed development would see ten single detached homes and 38 semi-detached units, with planner Bryan Pearce from Baird Architecture and Engineering on hand to present the proposal.

Pearce noted a number of reports have already been submitted to the town, including a traffic impact study, and that there is no planned parking impact for on-street parking. That comment drew laughter and groans from residents at the meeting, with those being concerns from those in attendance.

into his house. Saying parking and noise is already “crazy,” he said he doesn’t want any further impacts.

to go forward. On the former, Thomas said she found out about the meeting through a family member who saw it online.

Terry Beaudoin also pointed out parking issues.

“I’m totally against all of this,” she told town council. “I agree with what everyone is saying about Brunner Ave.” Vehicles are regularly parked along that street for much of the distance of the road, some for long periods of time.

“There are some vehicles that never move,” said Beaudoin.

Beaudoin said she is concerned about the traffic and even when she backs out of her driveway. She said she went from a view of “a beautiful field to having 400 neighbours I have to put up with,” adding more would be coming if the third phase was approved.

Councillor Peter Courtney expressed a desire to take another look at the traffic impact study, stating “numbers have changed” and residents have ongoing concerns about even more traffic on that road.

Debby Pajot said the first two phases of the project, the two River’s Edge apartment buildings along Sandwich St. North/Front Road North have already impacted the area.

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“We’ve seen parking on Fraser, Grant where I live, and Brunner Ave.,” she said.

“Everyone is development, development, development,” she said, Cathy Thomas hoped the housing would be affordable, also emphasizing traffic concerns. She said she lives near Stella Maris Catholic Elementary School and “the traffic there is crazy.” Thomas also called for an additional access point.

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Bob Pajot added six to eight spots would be lost along Brunner Ave. with the street entrance and exits. He questioned whether there was enough parking at the two apartments.

“There’s a few for visitors but certainly not enough,” he added.

Pajot also expressed a desire for another access point in and out of Fraserville.

“The residents I’ve talked to are concerned about levels of traffic going onto a busy Front Road North,” he said.

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Parking for the apartments should be contained to those lots, she believed.

“Leave our streets alone,” Pajot said.

“When there’s something going on, we’re trapped,” she said. “We can’t get out.”

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Councillor Diane Pouget also expressed an interest in traffic in the area, with residents listing traffic and parking as major concerns.

Bob Roberts said plans call for the new roadway to be near his home, and said he doesn’t want vehicle lights shining

Pajot also told town council “we need a second route out of our subdivision” and noted the street on the former Diageo site that was closed that links Balaclava St. and Girard St. Trees and parkland were other issues she brought up.

Playgrounds were another issue she addressed, as was the character of the area.

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“Change is inevitable,” said Thomas, “but change has to be appropriate for the area itself.”

Meeting notification was raised as was trees and natural areas, blaming town council for allowing the first two phases

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“There is no way there is enough parking,” he said. “There’s not enough on Brunner Ave. as it is.”

Josh Lambier added there is often vehicles on both sides of the road, meaning the road shrinks from two lanes to almost one. There are children who walk and bicycle in the area and expressed concern about even more traffic should the development go through.

Continued on Page 10

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“Grayson’s Pasta Dinner” raises over $5,100 for young boy with cancer

By Ron Giofu

A fundraiser for a four-year-old boy with a rare form of cancer brought community members out in full force over the weekend.

“Grayson’s Pasta Dinner” fundraiser was held Saturday evening at the River Canard Columbian Club, with proceeds benefitting young Grayson Baldwin and his family. The proceeds from the event totalled $5,146.

Karey Montgomery, Grayson’s aunt, said the diagnosis came late last year.

“He was diagnosed two weeks before Christmas with Rhabdomyosarcoma,” she said. “Currently, it’s in his brain cavity. It started behind his eye and it’s in his lymph nodes.”

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer. His journey started last December when his family was having photos taken and they noticed his eye starting to bulge out.

Trips to the eye doctor, a specialist, the emergency room and hospital followed and the diagnosis came a few days later. Grayson was rushed to Toronto for a biopsy and MRI and that is when the

Formal petition policy enacted by county

By Fred Groves

The County of Essex now has an official policy when it comes to petitions.

Clerk Katherine Hebert presented a report at the March 4 meeting of county council, which was adopted, and will now have specific requirements for the public.

“It’s a formality to align the general practices that are currently underway for receiving petitions with a formal policy,” explained Herbert.

Hebert added the seven local municipalities have guidelines for petitions and

now the county will have a similar one.

“This is as close as we can get to matching all of you and your procedures,” she told county council members.

The new policy will provide residents the opportunity to express their views on public concerns.

There will now be certain requirements including what constitutes a petition, clear requirements for formality, submission and validation and assurance that it is in compliance with the Ontario Municipal Act.

Continued on Page 5

family found out his cancer had spread. He was in hospital Dec. 22-Jan. 18 for treatment. He was able to be at the dinner Saturday night but is still undergoing chemotherapy and has to take numerous medications. Radiation starts March 11. This is not the first time Grayson has had to battle medical issues as he was hospitalized for two months shortly after being born.

Despite his treatments, Montgomery said Grayson remains an upbeat boy who likes meeting new people.

“He’s happy. He won’t tell us when he’s sick,” he said. “Nothing keeps him down. He’s the happiest little boy. He says ‘don’t be sad, be happy’.”

Money raised at last Saturday night’s chicken and pasta dinner fundraiser will help pay for medication costs, fees and

travel expenses as the family still has to travel to London and Toronto for treatments. Sadly, the family also has to plan for a life without Grayson.

“The prognosis of this is less than a year,” said Montgomery.

The fight against Grayson’s cancer will continue in the meantime.

“He goes for an MRI on the 17th,” said Montgomery. “It will show whether the treatments are working.”

The family was pleased with the large crowd that turned out Saturday night, noting they only started planning the dinner a few weeks ago and word of it spread quickly. Grayson’s mother Stacey Baldwin thanked the crowd and those who helped organize the dinner, with other emotional tributes and prayers being shared as part of the night.

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Issue of bringing more doctors to town part of extensive debate at council

Continued from Page 1

Blanchette said they are happy to appear before any municipal council on the matter. He said it is a big job that can’t be solved overnight but called for continued collaboration.

“We are on top of this,” he said. “We are working on this very hard

Zuk added Windsor-Essex County “has done a lot of the heavy lifting,” citing a satellite medical school and three hospitals in the region. She also pointed out a nurse practitioner program at the University of Windsor.

Councillor Diane Pouget said Amherstburg is “growing by leaps and bounds” and wanted to ensure there were enough medical professionals to cover that growth. She said her original motion to get more information was in no way intended to criticize current doctors and healthcare providers, but to bring in more. She said some doctors are nearing retirement age, and that puts a strain on other doctors.

Mayor Michael Prue added the new mega-hospital will be built and wondered if professionals coming to practice there could also set up shop in other area municipalities. Zuk said the Fanscy Family Hospital will be an “incredible boost” to the area and believed many will come and practice and research there.

Amherstburg resident Lynn Sinasac questioned some of the numbers WEOHT members presented, noting a local walk-in clinic has closed. She wants to see another walk-in clinic in town, noting many only take patients already rostered to them.

Sinasac added she regularly sees residents post on social media looking for places to go after hours or for X-rays. Supplying healthcare isn’t just one level of government’s responsibility, she added.

“It takes a village,” said Sinasac.

Requests to have Dr. Neville Crane and local resident Alison Baldwin were turned down as a motion to allow them to speak lost. The procedural bylaw states the vote must be unanimous, but Gibb and Councillor Linden Crain were opposed.

Crain said he was interested in the topic but voted against it, as he noted he regularly does, because people at home don’t have the same right to speak and also noted accessibility concerns. Gibb said he would love to hear people speak, but there was no prior notice and there were rules to be followed by the town and that “we want everyone else to follow the law.”

Councillor Don McArthur said Crane and Baldwin wanted to speak to a matter on the agenda, noting Baldwin was passionate about the topic and Crane is knowlegable about it as well. While there are rules to follow, McArthur stating they would still be following the rules if they allowed them to speak. Pouget and Courtney also voted in favour of allowing them to talk.

Baldwin shared her notes with local media, and they showed she was in support of investing municipal tax dollars into recruiting and retaining family physicians.

“Local access to primary care is essential to a safe and healthy community. Residents with family doctors or nurse

practitioners nearby receive preventative care, early diagnosis, and management of chronic illness. This reduces unnecessary emergency visits and prevents minor health concerns from becoming major medical emergencies,” Baldwin said in her notes. “Preventative care is also financially responsible governance. Treating conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, infections or injuries early is far less costly than advanced complications in hospitals, which ultimately affects all taxpayers.”

Baldwin also stated adequate services makes Amherstburg more competitive and helps with economic development, tourism and attracting new residents.

“The Province of Ontario also has a responsibility,” her notes read. “The Primary Care Action Plan has committed more than $2.1 billion to connect Ontarians to a family doctor or primary care team, with hundreds of millions more to support clinic expansion and recruitment, including $235 million in 2025 to expand team-based care in underserved areas.”

Baldwin urged Amherstburg to establish a physician recruitment and retention program, pursue a walk-in clinic and urgent care, work with provincial and regional partners on funding for clinic space, healthcare professionals and diagnostic services.

A report from CAO Valerie Critchley added the cost of a physician recruiter was shared in the past by the Windsor and County of Essex, with work being successful “particularly with the attraction of specialists to the area.” She noted the satellite medical school, the Schulich School of Medicine, opened.

Critchley said the recruitment program ended in 2022 and since then, WEOHT “has been advocating locally regarding primary care practitioner recruitment.” Her report also noted the Healthcare Connect program initiated by the province connects individuals to primary care.

“The WEOHT has advised that the AFHT has made an application to the Province for primary care expansion funding which, if successful, will broaden primary care in Amherstburg in two ways. Firstly, it will allow more patients to be rostered within the AFHT and, secondly, it would provide resources to allow for the expansion of AFHT Clinic Hours,” the report added.

The CAO recommended that physician recruitment be done in coordination with the AFHT and WEOHT.

“Administration asked the representatives of WEOHT and WECHU what more the municipality can do to assist with primary care practitioner recruitment in the Amherstburg area. The answer, simply put, is that the best thing Amherstburg can do in this realm is to build an attractive community in which practitioners want to work, live and play. Primary care practitioners are drawn to communities with modern recreational, cultural, entertainment oriented and educational amenities and services. In this regard, the considerable work that council has done to build and refresh parks and recreational facilities, encourage the development of diverse businesses and services and promote community festivals and events has placed Amherstburg in an excellent position,” Critchley’s report said.

New long-term care home construction site visited by provincial minister

Continued from Page 1

“We’re bringing hope for the community,” she added.

Mayor Michael Prue said the location was a “logical choice” for the developers, given its proximity to other amenities in the area. Prue cited the Amherstburg Community Hub next door, which has a nurse practitioner’s office and Amherstburg Community Services among its tenants, as well as the redevelopment of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park next door and the nearby seniors centre where the Golden Age Club meets.

“We even dug up the road to make sure the water and sewage was available,” said Prue. “Amherstburg has done its part.”

The mayor offered thanks for

the long-term care home coming to Amherstburg, with the 101 new beds being added to the 59 that are being transferred from Windsor.

“This is a seniors corner,” he said.

Bringing the redeveloped home to Amherstburg has been in the works for quite some time, Prue added, believing it will lead the town to become better in the process. He said an tax abatement program offered through the town was used to entice the development to Amherstburg.

Asked about the jobs shifting from Windsor to Amherstburg, Prue cited a number of shared services throughout the region.

“It’s not far away,” he added. “It’s half an hour.”

“The people of Amherstburg are both very proud and very happy to have the new Chateau Park Long-Term Care Home in our community. Every day we are witnessing this new building rise from the ground,” he said. “It will be a symbol of our civic pride as we move forward to make Amherstburg a stronger and more vibrant town.”

“I am very pleased that the government is investing in a new long-term care home in Amherstburg, so that people who are ready for it can find the home they need. This will allow people who grew up and retired in Amherstburg to stay close to their family and close to their friends,” added Essex MPP Anthony Leardi.

Shana Bond, president of Riverdale Living, added her gratitude for the BOF funding and to the municipality and province. She said the company prides

itself on the quality of care they deliver, and she thanked their staff as well for their work.

“Your efforts are truly valuable,” she said.

Michael Fedchyshyn, CEO of the Building Ontario Fund, added: “Financing smaller long-term care homes that we find in rural communities throughout Ontario presents unique challenges. By bundling four ARCH properties together, we were able to bring institutional capital to the table to see new homes built in Prescott, Tay Valley Township, Lancaster and right here in Amherstburg. These homes will not only provide expanded, high-quality care for our seniors but also serve as significant centres of employment in their communities.”

The total capital cost of the project is estimated at $75 million.

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County of Essex won’t dip into reserves to pay for green bin program

By Fred Groves

Essex County council will not be dipping into reserves to pay for the green bin recycling program.

Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey brought forth a motion at last Wednesday night’s meeting which could have seen 100 per cent of the cost paid out of reserves in 2026 for the Phase One municipalities of Essex, LaSalle, Lakeshore and Tecumseh.

“The key fundamental reality is that there are no reserves dedicated to fund green bin costs. The program was approved as a user pay model with participating households covering the expense,” said Essex County director of financial services/treasurer Melissa Ryan.

Bailey’s motion also requested 50 per cent of the cost for Phase One municipalities to be paid in 2027 and 100 percent for Phase Two that year which includes Amherstburg, Leamington and Kingsville.

Ryan explained that if that was to occur, then the $15 million in the rate stabilization reserve fund would take a hit of $9 million this year and $11 million in 2028 which would put the county into a deficit.

“Reserves are not surplus funds, they are a financial risk buffer. Using one-time funds to cover an ongoing operational program creates a structural imbalance,” said Ryan.

Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue wanted to know how much would be taken out of reserves.

“How would we go about replenishing the $20 million into the reserves? We would have to raise taxes. So, in the end, there is no savings for the people of the county,” said Prue.

Figures released by the county indicate that the cost of the organic waste-green bin program will cost Amherstburg $1,901,275 in 2027, $1,939,301 in 2028 and $1,978,067 in 2028. The county has a seven-year contract for the program.

“At some point, we have to have the bigger conversation around garbage, organics, recycling and reducing the costs,” said Bailey.

While the exact cost per household is not yet determined, Amherstburg Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said it would be about $150 per year. He noted last week that diverting organics away from the landfill will save Amherstburg about $30,000 per year in tipping fees.

“When we sat here to debate the budget, we knew what this was going to cost,” said Gibb.

Gibb was against the idea of using reserves to pay for the program, saying, “I’m not going to use reserve funds to make this more palatable, especially in an election year. I am a hard no on this.”

While Bailey’s motion to use reserves was defeated 11-3, Ryan did offer councillors an alternative, suggesting

New public petition policy put in place

Continued from Page 3

“This will be helpful to people when they want to put a petition forward,” commented Kingsville Deputy Mayor Kim DeYong.

Petitions, as indicated in Hebert’s report, must be respectful, legible, and free of defamatory or inappropriate language. It must indicate who the organizer is and all names on the petition must be printed, signed and contain an address.

Amherstburg Mayor Michael Prue had concerns about what happens after it is presented, stating the

public needs to know what happens to their petition.

“In other levels of government, both provincial and federal, when petitions are sent into the House, they go to a specific person to answer them. I didn’t see in this (county policy) who will answer them,” said Prue.

Hebert said once the petition is received by the clerk’s office, it will be reviewed and sent to the appropriate department. She added the petition organizer will receive an acknowledgement that the county received it and when the concern will be dealt with.

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10 per cent of the program be paid out of the reserves over the next two years.

Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley thought that was possible and also suggested that maybe the county could reduce the amount going into the new mega-hospital reserve this year and put towards the green bin program.

County CAO Sandra Zwiers advised against that. There continues to be pushback about the green bin program and county resident Doug Doher wanted to see it halted until more information was gathered.

“Public input from the taxpayers is a fundamental part of the democratic process,” said Doher. “This is about transparency, accountability and responsible stewardship of the taxpayers’ dollars.”

Doher added that currently 73 per cent of county residents are not participating.

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Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce holds AGM, welcomes new members

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) looked back at the most recent year and are planning their next year forward.

The ACOC held its annual general meeting (AGM) last Wednesday night in the community room at Amherstburg Community Services, with the event also being held in partnership with The House Youth Centre. Roughly 50 members and guests attended the March 4 meeting, with part of the meeting featuring a membership update.

“We welcomed 16 amazing new businesses to the Chamber since our last AGM,” stated ACOC president Dan Gemus.

The ACOC now boasts of 130 member businesses, with new members including BarBurrito Amherstburg, BDC, Beaver Tails, Canadian Tire Amherstburg, Enbridge, Fort Malden Animal Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, Hills Tree Service, ICON EV Amherstburg, Musicland, Off the Grid Energy Solutions, Pantry Heaven, RFG Plumbing and Electrical, Sweet Moments Cookie Co., Web Geeks Marketing and White Oak Consulting.

It was learned during the meeting that 18 new Habitat

for Humanity homes are planned for Amherstburg, mainly on a triangular piece of land on County Road 10 (Middle Side Road), just west of Concession 2 North.

“It’s been a very busy year,” said Gemus.

Membership events touted by the ACOC included a new member welcome at Bryerswood Youth Camp, a holiday networking event at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce AGM and policy convention and a tour of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

Last year’s Business Excellence Awards at the Columbian Club in McGregor was one of the ACOC’s “most memorable moments” with this year’s awards planned for May 7, also in McGregor.

ACOC general manager Anne Creery went over membership programs, from Chamber group insurance to Evalon payment processing and member-to-member discount programs.

“We’ve stepped up our social media presence,” Creery told the audience.

Communication and marketing support was described as an online directory listing, social media support, grand opening and special event support.

All-candidates nights for the Oct. 26 municipal election are planned for the Columbian Club in McGregor Oct. 7-8, with councillor candidates one night and mayor and

deputy mayor candidates the other.

ACS executive director Kathy DiBartolomeo pointed out the agency has been around over 50 years and offers over 20 services. ACS serves people in Amherstburg, McGregor, Harrow and LaSalle.

ACS is also hosting a volunteer fair in partnership with the Town of Amherstburg March 26 from 4:30-6 p.m. with 14 organizations signed up so far.

Morghan Shearon, program director with The House, noted the youth peer mentoring programs they offer as well as alumni and senior program. Board member Amy Bailey thanked the community for its support of the Amherstburg’s Coldest Night of the Year (ACNOY) event that was held Feb. 28. Donations for ACNOY are still being accepted through March 31 at www.cnoy. org/amherstburg with The House being at 61 per cent ($30,827) of its $50,000 goal as of press time.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 president Shawn Wilkie pointed out the Amherstburg branch is in its 96th year and he pointed out their support of not just veterans, but families, seniors and the community.

“We’re more than just support for veterans,” he said.

During the most recent poppy campaign, Amherstburg collected approximately $30,000, he added, and that was more than much larger municipalities including the $6,800 raised in Scarborough. The local Legion also offers meals throughout the week, including Tuesday lunches, chicken on Thursdays and fish on Fridays.

Jen Ibrahim, manager of economic development, tourism and culture for the Town of Amherstburg, noted Economic Development Week returns May 4-8.

“We are bringing back the job fair,” said Ibrahim. “We held it last year. We had 350 people come looking for employment.”

Bryerswood Youth Camp Optimist Club vice president Cathy Robertson outlined programs the camp has for families facing financial hardship but still wanting their children to attend a camp.

“We have money set aside for those children,” said Robertson.

Continued on Page 11

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$3.7 Million for Amherstburg

The Ontario government is investing up to $3,741,250 to rehabilitate water infrastructure in the Town of Amherstburg.

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Your patience pays off in a relationship, Taurus. A long-term goal you share with a partner starts to move into the planning stages this week. Enjoy the excitement ahead.

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Gemini, joyful news arrives via a friend in the next few days. Celebrate the successes of others, as your own turn for good news is right around the corner.

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VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

An act of kindness you performed recently may come back to you in surprising ways, Virgo. The universe will reward your generous spirit. You may continue to pay it forward.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Figure out the perfect middle ground between work responsibilities and fun this week, Libra. If you delegate some of your tasks, you may free up time for personal enjoyment.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Scorpio, optimism is your guiding light this week. Your “can-do” attitude may inspire others who cross your path in the days to come. Lots will get done in little time.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Deep conversations may lead to a breakthrough, Sagittarius. You might start to understand someone else or a situation on a whole new level.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, financial stability is something you should carefully consider this week. A smart decision you made in the past may not be the best way to continue forward.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, you may feel a strong draw toward community or giving back this week. Helping out a neighbor will bring you satisfaction, or you can volunteer.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

It’s important to trust your intuition, Pisces. This is leading you toward a very happy coincidence by the end of the week. Someone special becomes involved.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 8 - Benny Blanco, Producer (38)

MARCH 9 - Khaby Lame, TikTok Star (26)

MARCH 10 - Bad Bunny, Rapper (32)

MARCH 11 - Anthony Davis, Athlete (33)

MARCH 12 - Malina Weissman, Actress (23)

MARCH 13 - William H. Macy, Actor (76)

MARCH 14 - Steph Curry, Athlete (38)

Residents concerned with Fraserville proposal

Continued from Page 2

“Adding more traffic is not acceptable,” he said.

Other concerns expressed included the settling pond and whether it would attract mosquitoes, the displacement of raccoons and squirrels and the loss of greenspace.

Some residents expressed a desire for a stop light at the intersection of Brunner Ave. and one of those was Bill Petruniak. Petruniak noted the development has to be safe for pedestrian traffic and called for sidewalks, and also suggested using some of the lots for a public park.

Infrastructure in the area is in the neighbourhood of 50-years-old, he added. Another subdivision from a separate proponent is planned for the area, he said, which could cause drainage concerns with Petruniak calling for this subdivision to be delayed.

Dennis Gauthier voiced concerns over mosquitoes and what is being done to control them. He added he found out about the meeting around 11 a.m. Monday morning for that evening’s meeting.

“A half-day notice for a meeting is ridiculous,” he said.

Gauthier also pointed out some vehicles barely move, if they move at all, after they park on Brunner Ave.

Pouget said residents can contact property standards online or call police if vehicles are left in the same spot for a period of time.

David Purdie pointed out speeding concerns, noting Sandwich St. S. is an area where people exceed the limit.

“Slow things down,” he said. “They’re not doing 50 km/hr.”

Purdie also suggested traffic lights and opening the road at the former Diageo property.

“I feel like I’m in Windsor,” he said. “This is pathetic. Traffic is nuts.”

“It’s a freeway,” added Pat Fox.

Pearce said sewer and stormwater infrastructure support the development and that a traffic impact study has already been done. On-street parking is something that can be regulated by the town, he added, also noting other studies have involved species at risk, with no negative impact associated with the latter. Sidewalks are also planned for the development.

“We plan to comply with zoning bylaw requirements,” he said.

Rob Piroli added “we’ve heard a lot of disappointing news today” and told residents “I do feel for you.”

All reports submitted have been deemed complete, he added, saying “you can rely on them.” He suggested the town implement permit parking along Brunner Ave. to try and alleviate parking issues, adding that while the apartment buildings have more parking than the town’s bylaws call for, he didn’t want to see surplus onto surrounding streets. A traffic report has already been submitted to administration.

Deputy Mayor Chris Gibb said while not part of the current planning process, the town does have to look at controlling parking on Brunner Ave.

“We hear you and we’re going to do what we can,” he told residents. Comments will be summarized and brought back in a future report to council. Deputy CAO/director of development services Melissa Osborne told town council it will likely take one or two months to bring a report back as there are a number of items to consider.

Admirals and 73’s even at a win apiece after two games

By Fred Groves

Playoffs are a lot different than the regular season and the Amherstburg Admirals proved that Sunday night.

At the Libro Centre, the Admirals built up a 4-1 lead and hung on to edge the Essex 73’s 4-3 to even the bestof-seven Provincial Junior Hockey League (Junior C) West Stobbs Division semi-final series at a game each.

Essex won the opener 6-3 Friday night on their home ice. Game 3 went Tuesday in Essex after this issue of the River Town Times went to press. After that, it’s back to the Libro Centre for Game 4 this Thursday and in Essex on Friday night (March 13).

“We’ve got no quit in the (dressing room) and we got the first one tonight which helped us out,” said forward Zack Vaillancourt.

During the regular season, the 73’s won all six games against the Admirals. They opened the post-season with four straight wins over the Walpole Island Wild and had not lost a game since Dec. 19. With an .893 win record they have been ranked number one in the PJHL all year.

Stefan Djordjevic opened the scoring for the Admirals last Sunday and led the Admirals with two goals and an assist. He was outstanding both offensively and gave out several huge hits.

Without a doubt the best player on the ice for either side was Amherstburg rookie goalie Bennett Horrocks who made 42 saves including 19 in the first period.

It was an extra sweet victory for Horrocks, who started the season in Essex before coming over in a trade.

“It made me want it more,” he said of the win. “I wanted to play better.”

The game became physical late in the first and into

the second periods and both Horrocks and Essex goalie Tomas Kniaziew were pressured in their creases.

“I just focused on the next shot and not retaliated. The minute you retaliate you give the other team a chance to score so you just have to keep your cool.”

Admirals explosive forward Cory Leach burst up the middle for a goal, Djordjevic got another and captain Drew Booker scored what would be the eventual game winner.

Essex battled back and got goals on the night from Carter Dembinski, Gabe Barrette and Drew Ferenc.

“We have a lot of heart, a lot of compete. Our guys never give up,” said Amherstburg head coach Zack Gervais.

In the opener last Friday night, the Admirals trailed 4-1 but came back to make it 4-3 at one point. Essex went on to win 6-3 including a late empty netter. Djordjevic had a pair of goals for the visitors with the other from Cooper Bulmer.

“The number one thing we tell our guys is that we don’t care if you make a mistake, we just want a 100 percent effort,” said Gervais.

SLAPSHOTS — Former Admirals forward Dallas Kelly had a pair of goals on Sunday as the Lakeshore Canadiens beat Blenheim 4-0 in the other division semifinal… After eight playoff games, Stefan Djordjevic leads the Admirals with 11 goals.

Local track athlete wins silver at national indoor championships

By Ron Giofu

A local track and field athlete set a pair of personal bests at the Canadian Indoor National Championships, one of which landed her a silver medal.

Aria Sementilli captured a silver medal in the U16 age category at the Feb. 27-March 1 competition in Toronto. Her personal best jump of 2.80 metres in pole vault earned her second place, only behind Dita Futo of the Bolton Pole Vault club.

“I couldn’t be happier,” the 13-year-old Amherstburg resident said. “I’m glad for Dita. She’s so sweet. She’s been trying for this her whole life. This meant more to her than it would have to me.”

Futo and Sementilli may train together in the summer, as Sementilli hopes to spend a few days at the Bolton club working with her. Year-round training in pole vault happens in Bolton, with Canadian record holder and Olympian Alicia Newman, who trains there. The track community is tight, she added, and they support each other and cheer each other on.

“She’s Aria’s inspiration and she got to meet her a couple of weeks ago,” said Aria’s mother Martene.

Sementilli said she tries to earn personal

bests in every meet she competes at. She also competed in the 60-metre hurdles while at the national championships, where she advanced to the final, finishing in eighth place.

“I think I did really well,” she added.

Martene added “this is the biggest event by far we’ve ever been to. We had never seen anything like it.”

Sementilli trains at the Windsor-Essex

Athletic Club and is coached in pole vault by Kevin DiNardo, himself an accomplished pole vaulter. She moved to the Windsor-Essex Athletic Club because of her desire to do pole vault.

“She wanted to get involved in pole vault since she was six or seven,” explained Martene. “It was a bizarre obsession.”

As it turned out, her grandfather was a pole vaulter in the U.S. Sementilli explained her grandfather liked watching “funny fails” and she recalled watching one video where a pole snapped. From there, she noticed pole vault and wanted to try it.

“There’s just something about it,” she said. “There’s a freedom you can really get with it. I don’t really know how to explain it.”

Sementilli said she was scared to try 2.20 metres two years ago, but that is where she starts at in competitions.

Other events she competes at includes sprints, with those including 60m and 150m during the indoor season and 100m, 200m and 400m in the outdoor season.

“I’ve loved running since I could walk,” said Sementilli. “It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do.”

The silver in pole vault was the first time she was on the podium for the sport.

“This is the first big competition she went to where she faced her own age group,” said Martene, adding her daughter has competed in open mixed age categories at other meets.

Sementilli competes in about a dozen meets per year. She trains in Windsor three times per week, spending part of the night with pole vault and hurdles the other part of the night.

“I’m hoping in high school to break OFSAA records,” she said.

Her long-term goal is to get to the Olympics.

“I really think by the time I’m old enough, I think I can get to the Olympics and put up a good fight,” said Sementilli. Sementilli currently attends Monseignor Caron elementary school in LaSalle and will attend Sandwich Secondary School.

Businesses, community groups give updates during ACOC AGM

Continued from Page 7

Career Compass, which operates under the umbrella of Community Living Essex County, outlined services they offer and were represented by Will Girard and Wendy Wallace. Career Compass connects people with intellectual disabilities wanting to work with companies, matches them based on skillsets and helps onboard them.

Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission president Tim McAllister highlighted the mission’s next chili dinner fundraiser. That will be March 27 from 5-8 p.m. with mild, spicy and vegetarian chili to be offered. Tickets are $15 for adults and $8 for children under 12, with dine-in and take-out options available.

Community Calendar

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE; Held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. Free event, donations accepted. This month’s event to have a St. Patrick’s Day theme. Entertainment includes Doc & The Rev, Johnny Mac, Dave Wilson, Trio 59 and Friends, The Bluegrass Bunch and Jackson Crawley. Runs from 7-9 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13

PASTA FUNDRAISER; Fourth annual pasta fundraiser being held in memory of Brandon Gignac at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 594, 5030 Howard Ave. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., dinner 5-6:30 p.m. Pasta, salad and buns. Raffle table, candy bouquet (must be present for the raffles, 8 p.m. draw time). Tickets $30, ages 3-12 $10. E-transfer cgignac1968@gmail.com. All money raised to be donated to Sleep in Heavenly Peace.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14

SONGFEST #4; Held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 11 Concession 3 N. (corner of Concession 3 N. & Alma St.) from 1-3 p.m. If you love to sing, we will be singing favorite hymns and gospel songs very informally with coffee and tea and light refreshments. Come for the singing and fellowship. Help us “make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” For more info, call Joan at 519-991-6111. See you there!

FRIDAY, MARCH 27

CHILI DINNER FUNDRAISER; The Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission invites the public to enjoy Tim’s Famous Chili, with proceeds benefitting mission operations. Runs 5-8 p.m., dine-in or take-out. Cost $15 for adults, $8 for children under 12 years of age. Mild, spicy or vegetarian options. Meal includes coleslaw, rolls, tea/coffee and dessert. Mission is located at 298 Victoria St. S. Advance tickets can be purchased Monday-Friday at the mission or by calling Violet at 519-736-9140. Tickets also available at the door.

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 WindsorEssex 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!

AMHERSTBURG’S COLDEST NIGHT OF THE YEAR; While the 2K and 5K walks occurred Feb. 28, donations are still being accepted until March 31. The House Youth Centre is trying to raise $50,000. To donate, visit www.cnoy.org/amherstburg.

GRIEFSHARE; Griefshare, a 13-week program dealing with the loss of a loved one, will be held beginning March 3 from 1-2:30 p.m. at Lighthouse Church, located at 266 King St. (entrance off of Gore St.), Amherstburg. For more info or to register, please call or text 519-8195936 or register online at Find a Group at www.griefshare.org.

COMMUNITY DINNER; Community dinners hosted every Thursday

evening at Encounter Church, 125 Alma St. Being held in partnership with Feeding Windsor-Essex. Starts at 5 p.m. Free to attend, everyone welcome. If interested in volunteering, contact the church at 519-7365644 or visit www.encounteraburg.ca and click on the “Upcoming” tab.

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.

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 519990-2775.

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. Next meeting is March 17.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RIVER CANARD 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 519734-8575. 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, 2953 Olinda Side Road in Ruthven. Rev. Paul Langston-Daley will speak on “Building the World We Dream About: Process Theology” March 15. 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 519736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. Stop by for food, fellowship and a warm welcome. All donations welcome.

VOLUNTEERS 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 now also 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.

CLASSIFIEDS

from $25 +tax WORD ADS from $15 +tax

CALL 519-736-4175 OR EMAIL sales@rivertowntimes.com to book your spot!

FOR RENT

2 BEDROOM APARTMENT for Rent in Amherstburg, includes utilities $1,830. Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1100 sq. ft. Lower-duplex on Queen Street in quiet neighbourhood. One block from the Detroit River within a short walking distance to town. Carpet and ceramic tile throughout. Modern open-concept kitchen with island for working or eating. Fridge, stove, and dishwasher included. Private laundry-room with washer and dryer included. Windows in every room with mini blinds included, providing lots of natural daylight. Central forcedair conditioning and highefficiency gas furnace. No smoking. No dogs. Private access to your own patio within shared rear-yard. $1,830 monthly, includes: central forced-air heating and cooling, natural gas, electricity, water, and sewer. Minimum 1-year lease. Apply with income verification. First and last month’s rent required. By appointment only, call 519736-4473 between 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and leave a detailed message.

RENOVATIONS & REPAIRS

WITH OVER 30 YEARS of renovation & construction experience, I can ensure your project is completed professionally, correctly, and with pride. Locally owned & operated. Fully insured and references available upon request. www.renovisions.ca Steve 519-300-0961.

EVENT SPACE FOR RENT

HALL RENTAL for showers, birthdays or gathering at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church- 129 Simcoe St. Amherstburg. For information, please contact Linda @ 519-736-6096 or Doris @ 519-734-8154.

“ARE YOU SAVED?”

That is the most important question you will face. Jesus Christ is the answer. Mt. Beulah Church, 246 King St., Amherstburg (519)736-4110.

SCRAMBLE ANSWER WINDOW

Please Recycle

HELP WANTED

Full time Personal Lines Account Manager. RIBO licensed, experience preferred. Please contact Wally McNeilly (519) 995-6340 or email at wmcneilly@hlhamilton.com

FOR RENT

CASA BLANCA & BELLA VISTA APTS. 365-369 Dalhouise. Centrally located in downtown Amherstburg with river views. Large, clean, quiet and secure. Stainless steel appliances, on-site laundry, patio or balcony and parking. Starting at $1395 including utilities. Call 519984-1745 to view.

WANTED Snow babies or Cherished Christmas Teddies. 519730-0527.

BREAKING NEWS

March 13, 2026

Happy 53rd Birthday to Amherstburg’s

Thank you for all you do for our community and for being the best business partner and friend anyone could ask for!

- Laura, Dominic, Keira, Luca, Bub, & Aria And the everyone at the RTT (and Gerald)

POWER WASHING & PEST CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Making your home look new again. 519-7362448.

Hulett, Mary Catherine

(Jones, Lesperance) (Nee Sutts) December 24, 1926 - February 25, 2026

Passed away peacefully, at the age of 99. She was the wife of the late Lloyd, Toddy Jones (1964), Gerald, Denis Lesperance (1976), and the late, Orris Hulett (2000). She was the daughter of the late Ernest and Edna Sutts (nee Renaud). Predeceased by her brother, the late Earl Sutts and her sister, the late Jean Duffy (Charles). Loving mother of Paul Jones (deceased), Linda Morrison (Donald deceased), Cameron Jones (Lynn Shaw), Gary Lesperance (deceased) (Diana), Suzanne Irvine (deceased) (Dale), Jennifer Jones, Laurie Gillis (deceased) (Brian), Mary Ann Lesperance, Mary Beth Gibb (Peter), Sara Jones (Paul Gilliam). Cherished Nana of Todd Jones (Amy), Stacie Cote (Shaun), Travis Morrison (Missy), Jessica Morrison, Michelle Dutkiewicz (Carl), Amy Just (Mike), Jeremy Jones, Dennis Shaw (Lindsey), Christopher Lesperance, Dayna Lesperance, Wesley Irvine (Ashley), Drew Irvine (Sarah), Blake Irvine (Chelsea), Mathew Gillis and (Katherine), Nathan Gillis, Marshall Angle, Dylan Gibb, Amanda Nemeth (Jason). Dearly beloved Gran-Nan to many loved great grandchildren. Loving Aunt Marn to Becky D’Amore, Kathy Duffy (goddaughter) Susie Duffy, and Bradley Duffy.

Mary was an amazing mother and woman, devoted to her family. Leaning into her natural motherly nurturing side, she found herself teaching preschoolers for some time. She enjoyed this role very much. Having had so many other passions throughout her life, Mary also became a business owner of Plants and Things in Amherstburg. This was a beautiful and rewarding endeavor in so many ways.

She was a wonderful florist; she truly enjoyed her time in the garden and had even been a decorated lifelong member of the Horticultural Society, so she was really doing what she loved. The most rewarding part for Mary was that many of her daughters worked with her each day. She was an active member of the Seniors Society and served as President on their committee. Mary was also honoured as Amherstburg’s Senior Citizen of the year in 2013. She was a special woman in all the roles she filled. Playing cards with friends, golfing and being with her family and friends were some of her favorite times and best memories made. They will be remembered by all who had the honour of sharing these precious moments with her.

The family would like to especially thank the wonderful staff of 3 East at Richmond Terrace and Dr. Tim O’Callahan for the exceptional care our mother received. Special thanks also to Connie McLellan for keeping our beautiful mother looking her best.

At the request of Mary, cremation has taken place. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, March 14th, 2026, at St. John the Baptist Church, (225 Brock St. Amherstburg, ON N9V 2H3) at 11:00a.m. followed by interment at St. John the Baptist Cemetery (100 Meloche Rd, Amherstburg, ON). Arrangements entrusted to James H. Sutton Funeral Home (401 Sandwich St. S., Amherstburg, 519-736-2134).

If you desire, Memorial Donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

Share a memory or sign the Book of Condolence at www. jhsuttonfuneral.ca

U21 Lake Erie North Stars look for another long playoff run

By Fred Groves

The Lake Eire North Stars U21 team is headed to the Shamrock League finals, and hopefully, beyond.

They blanked the visiting Ausable Valley Coyotes 1-0 last Sunday to win the best-of-three series in two straight games.

The North Stars will now challenge for the league title and if they win that, will head to the Ontario Hockey Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) championship tournament in Kingston at the end of the month.

“We had our chances, a couple of more goals would have been good,” said Lake Erie captain Cam Roussell after Sunday’s game at the Libro Centre.

Kaleb Jardin netted the only goal for the winners who dominated offensively throughout the game.

Getting the shutout in net was former Amherstburg Admirals Jay Procter.

“It would have been nice to have a few more goals,” said U21 coach Dennis Emerson.

The night before in Lucan, it was another slim win, this time 2-1 for the North Stars.

Under the new banner of the Lake Erie Minor Hockey Association, which combined this year to include Amherstburg

and Erie North Shore (KingsvilleHarrow), the U21 team lost only two games all season.

“We have more depth this year, everyone is doing the right things,” said Roussell.

One of the banners at the end of the Libro Centre proudly displays the locals winning the Ontario juvenile (now U21) Ontario championship back in 2017-18.

Under the long tenure of Emerson, the North Stars are

hoping that this is the year they once again get to bring home the title.

A year ago, in Kingston, they were disappointed with an 0-3 record at the OMHA tournament.

“We are focused on winning it all and fixing our mistakes,” said Emerson.

A winning record, a balanced lineup and solid goaltending could make for a winning combination.

Donations to boxers

The Fighting Island Boxing Club (FIBC) received a $500 donation from Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 at the most recent Legion general meeting. The $500 comes from the Legion’s bingo fund and will be used by the boxing club to support fighters competing at out-of-town training camps and events. Bobby Jo Wonham (left) of

receives the

from

Next exit: Making the meeting

We’re building a new interchange connecting Highway 401 to Lauzon Parkway to make your commute easier

Ontario is building new highways, upgrading roads and improving transit across the province to make your travels faster and easier.

MARCH

Libro Drop-In Public Skating

5-6:50pm

$4/person

$12/family of

(Most

Co-An

Libro Drop-In Beginner Skating 4-4:50pm

$4/person

$12/family of 5 (Most Saturdays)

5-6:50pm

$4/person

$4/person

$12/family of 5 (Most Saturdays)

$4/person

$12/family of 5 (Most Sundays) Last Day for Libro Drop-In Beginner Skating 4-4:50pm

$12/family of 5 (Most Saturdays)