River Town Times - March 13, 2023

Local man returns from humanitarian trip to Ghana

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

By Ron Giofu

An Amherstburg man has returned from a humanitarian mission to Ghana. Bert McLellan returned last week after a 17-day trip that was through area Rotary Clubs. During the trip, there was the dedication of six wells, work at three schools, the donation of 140 sewing machines and over 30 professional hair dryers and assisting with a medical clinic in the African nation.

“It was good. It was really productive,” said McLellan. “We were there 15 days. It took a day to get there.”

The first six days of the mission saw McLellan volunteer in the medical clinic alongside a doctor who made the trip with the group. The clinic saw over 90 patients per day while they were there, many of whom who had malaria.

McLellan estimated at least 70 per cent of the children that were treated had the disease, including a baby who was subsequently sent to a nearby hospital for treatment.

That baby, said McLellan, recovered within two days and that was the biggest highlight of the mission trip.

“It was like a different child,” he said.

The clinic also gave out a number of knee and ankle braces. McLellan pointed out the goal is to have it staffed more frequently as the clinic is often closed unless a humanitarian trip arrives with a doctor among the group. It is hoped the clinics will be able to be staffed regularly within a year, he said.

Volunteers on the mission trip also donated over 400 knapsacks to students at schools in the country. The knapsacks were filled with school supplies and other necessities such as

menstrual pads. The latter can be the reason female students go to school versus not wanting to attend, he noted.

“Every child got a new uniform,” said McLellan. “For the conditions they live in, they are clean.”

Teachers in Ghana earn roughly $100 per month, with educators choosing to go to schools with indoor washrooms instead of facilities with a short wall and a trench in the ground, he added.

Mosquito nets were passed out to the point where McLellan lost track of how many they gave out. Reading glasses were also distributed to those who needed them.

There was also a visit to “The Last Bath,” a site where slaves had their last bath on African soil before being shipped out.

Those on the trip were given gifts in every village they went to, including

a goat, but McLellan said through the help of local priests, they were turned back over to those in need in Ghana including for use as meals.

The people in Ghana are very happy to see visitors, he added.

“They are happier than we are yet we have everything,” said McLellan. “They are very needy but they’re happy.”

It was the third and final time McLellan has been to Ghana through a Rotary-sponsored trip. He said it is a lot of work to get ready for such a trip but he is grateful he has been able to help out.

“If you don’t help them, they get nothing,” he said.

While some may question him and others about going, he said the people in Ghana need the help.

“They are just like us.”

Amherstburg resident Bert McLellan (centre) meets some of the people in Ghana during a recent humanitarian trip he took. The trip was through local Rotary Clubs in the Windsor-Essex area.

Bert McLellan worked in a clinic during a portion of the time he was in Ghana. One of the trip’s highlights was helping with a baby recover from malaria.

ACOC holds AGM to discuss accomplishments from 2023-24 year

By Ron Giofu

The Amherstburg Chamber of Commerce (ACOC) held its annual general meeting last week and took an opportunity to look back on their most recent year.

The annual general meeting (AGM) was held last Thursday evening at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. with over 40 people in attendance. ACOC president Dan Gemus said the organization is in a good position.

“The chamber is in good shape,” stated Gemus.

“It’s in the best shape it’s been since I’ve been part of it.”

According to Gemus, Amherstburg is “flourishing” and the ACOC has a strong membership and the largest since he joined in 2015.

“It is a very exciting year for the chamber,” he said. “We’re at 116 businesses this year.”

Calling it “a very busy year,” Gemus noted a number of events the ACOC presented throughout the 2023-24 year.

One of the events held since last year’s AGM was

the 18th annual Business Excellence Awards held at Pointe West Golf Club. There was also a networking event that drew between 30-40 member businesses held at the Amherstburg Freedom Museum, a “Holiday Hop” event involving various local businesses and advocating for its members.

“Advocacy has been a big part of the chamber this year,” he added, including representation on issues at the federal, provincial and municipal levels.

The 2024 Business Excellence Awards will be held May 30 at the McGregor Columbian Club.

In a letter to members, Gemus wrote: “Our commitment to supporting each member’s success has never been stronger. Through initiatives like the distribution of rapid test kits in partnership with ACS and the continuous enhancement of member savings programs, we strive to provide tangible benefits that contribute to your business’s growth and sustainability. The collaborative efforts with regional chambers offer additional avenues for networking and partnership, further enriching our business ecosystem. As we look ahead, I am excited about the opportunities that lie before us. Our focus will remain on fostering a supportive environment that encourages innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. I invite each of you to share your ideas, participate in our events, and contribute to our collective journey towards a thriving Amherstburg.”

Members and general manager Anne Creery were thanked during last Thursday night's meeting.

It was pointed out 13 new members were added since last year’s AGM. Those new members are CKRT Border City Radio, Diageo Canada Inc, Digital Dragonfly, F45 Training Amherstburg, McGregor Columbian Club, Owl’s Nest Emporium, Ron Deneau & Arms Bumanlag Realtors at Bob Pedler Real Estate, Scotiabank Amherstburg, Sobeys Amherstburg, Team Brad Bondy, The House Youth Centre and The Park House Museum.

Local

grocery

store steps up for family in need

The team at Sobeys in Amherstburg stepped up on the weekend with a barbecue for the French family both Saturday and Sunday. Sixteenyear-old Evan French has been battling a series of health issues, one of which was a stroke, since late November and spent time over the holiday season in children's hospital in London. He is now back at North Star High School but is still recovering from the health issues. In addition to staff at Sobeys helping out with the fundraiser, members of the Amherstburg Firefighters Association were among the community members that offered up their time to assist. A GoFundMe page for the French family is still ongoing, with people able to find it by searching "Help with Medical Bills for Our Buddy Evan."

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

Book Review

The Frozen River

by Ariel Lawhon

In 1789, a body was found frozen in a river, and it’s obvious a crime has been committed. Martha Ballard, the town midwife, has been called upon to determine the cause of death. In a time where women often pay for the crimes of men, and are not permitted to testify without a husband or father present, Martha may have to put her own safety in danger in order to solve the mystery and to advocate for justice for the women of her town. Inspired by the real journals of Martha Ballard, this is a complex Historical Fiction Mystery.

The Three Little Mittens

by Linda Bailey

Illustrated by Natalia Shaloshvili

Have you ever felt like the odd one out? There’s a little mitten that does too. The Three Little Mittens is an adorable read about a mitten who has lost its match, feels left out, and feels different. But what happens when you ignore the matching rules? Life becomes more fun, more colourful, and more exciting too. You don’t have to be just like everyone else to have friends. This is a wonderful storybook that is fun to read and teaches littles about accepting

ACOC president Dan Gemus and members gathered last Thursday evening at G.L. Heritage Brewing Co. in Amherstburg for the annual general meeting. New board members were also welcomed at the meeting.

Clerk Mary Birch set to retire after 26-year career with the County of Essex

By Fred Groves

A mentor, confident and loyal friend.

That is how Essex County Warden Hilda MacDonald described retiring clerk Mary Birch at Birch’s final council meeting last Wednesday night.

Prior to a standing ovation, MacDonald had high praise for Birch who steps down as not only the clerk but the director of legislative and community services.

“We are grateful for her legacy at the County of Essex and look forward to helping celebrate her retirement later this month,” said MacDonald, the Mayor of Leamington.

Birch’s official last day is March 26 and according to CAO Sandra Zwiers a replacement has not been found and the recruitment process is ongoing.

Starting her municipal government career with the county back in 1988 as an intern in the human resources department, Birch worked at the Town of Essex while still at the University of Windsor. She became the accounts payable clerk in Belle River (now part of Lakeshore) before moving over to Colchester North (now part of Essex) as the deputy clerk/ deputy treasurer.

Birch came to work full-time for the

County of Essex in 1998 just as amalgamation was beginning and the 21 municipalities of the day were being cut down to the current seven.

“Mary has the respect of regional, provincial and federal elected officials, community leaders, and public

servants with whom she has worked co-operatively and effectively over three decades,” said MacDonald.

Not only has Birch filled the roll of clerk and director but on more than one occasion, when the county did not have a CAO, it turned to her to take on

the duties on an interim basis. In 2022, she was honoured with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Association of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers of Ontario.

When asked by the River Town Times what she considered to be her greatest accomplishment over 26 years with the county, the retiring clerk was somewhat at a loss for words however, she did have some sound advice for her eventual replacement.

“I would say to collaborate with the rest of the senior leadership team and whatever advice you bring to council to make sure to bring advice that is going to help make the decision in the best way possible for the entire county.”

Birch said she is going to miss the people she worked with over the years and acknowledged she has made a lot of friends.

Upon retirement she is getting married in May and looks forward to spending time with grandchildren.

At the end of Wednesday night’s council meeting, her last, many county councillors requested a photo taken with the outgoing clerk and it was Birch who cut into the first piece of a large cake outside of chambers.

Amherstburg native returns to encourage students to consider Coast Guard

traffic services officer and more.

Simon has been in the Canadian Coast Guard for 17 years and is the joint rescue co-ordinator in Trenton. Her job has included travel around Canada,

By Ron Giofu

Local high school students found out more about joining the Canadian Coast Guard and building a career there thanks to an Amherstburg native returning to the area.

Markie Simon was at St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School and North Star High School giving presentations

to classes and setting up shop in the cafeteria to meet with students.

“I’m here to inform students about the opportunities in the Canadian Coast Guard,” she said.

Free schooling is a possibility and career options include ship’s cook, deck hand, engineering officer, navigation officer, engine room assistant, steward, marine communications and

“Friday Night Live” coming to local church

Special to the RTT

A night of local music is coming next week to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.

“Friday Night Live” will feature several local acts with performers to include Lauren Baillargeon, Ken Arsenault, Foxy Doe, Brooke Wickham and Johnny Mac and Friends. It will be held March 22 from 7-9 p.m. St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church is located at 129 Simcoe St., at the corner of Bathurst St., in Amherstburg.

noting “every day is different.”

Originally from Amherstburg, Simon said she was happy to be home for a few days and does plan to return to the area.

RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES

Essex County clerk and director of legislative and community services Mary Birch (left) is congratulated on her retirement from Warden Hilda MacDonald (centre) and CAO Sandra Zwiers.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU Markie Simon represented the Canadian Coast Guard at two local high schools during her return to the area. Simon was at North Star High School (pictured) and St. Thomas of Villanova Secondary School.

Premier in Essex County to make major infrastructure funding announcement

By RTT Staff

Premier Doug Ford and members of his cabinet were in Essex County Monday to announce several highway infrastructure projects in Southwestern Ontario, including the start of construction on the final phase of widening Highway 3 between Essex and Leamington and building a new interchange at Banwell Road and E.C. Row Expressway in Windsor.

The province is also building a new interchange connecting Highway 401 to Lauzon Parkway.

“By widening Highway 3 and building the Banwell and Lauzon Parkway interchanges, we’re building the transportation infrastructure needed to tackle gridlock and support the region’s growing economy,” said Premier Doug Ford. “While previous governments ignored the province’s infrastructure needs, we’re getting it done for Windsor-Essex by getting shovels in the ground as part of our $28 billion plan to build roads and highways.”

The government says it is investing $50 million to build a new interchange at

Banwell Road and E.C. Row Expressway. The Banwell interchange will improve access to Canada’s first electric vehicle battery plant while also supporting supply chain businesses across Windsor and the new Windsor-Essex hospital.

“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is proud to deliver gamechanging projects that will get drivers in Windsor-Essex where they need to go, faster than ever,” said Minister of Transportation Prabmeet Sarkaria. “We will continue to invest in infrastructure that creates meaningful jobs and saves families and businesses time and money.”

Local MPPs were also pleased with the announcement.

“Building the Banwell/E.C. Row Interchange is a game-changer supporting not only our advanced manufacturers including NextStar Energy EV Battery Plant, but also the thousands of daily commuters in Windsor, Tecumseh and Lakeshore. I want to sincerely thank the Premier, the Minister of Transportation and the Minister of Finance for hearing our voices in Windsor-Essex. This project has been needed for over 30 years, and I couldn’t be happier to see that the Ontario

government is finally delivering it,” said Windsor-Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie.

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi added: “Highway 3 is a critical artery that connects Essex to communities across Ontario, as well as economic and trade opportunities at the WindsorDetroit border. As the population of Southwestern Ontario continues to grow rapidly, widening Highway 3 will ensure that the region’s infrastructure can keep up with this growth, while keeping people and goods moving efficiently along the corridor.”

Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy said her town is “thrilled to see the Highway 3 widening project advance with the start of construction of the final phase.”

“This initiative is vital to our region, as Highway 3 serves as a critical connection between our community and neighbouring areas. The expansion of this roadway will enhance safety, improve connectivity, and increase economic opportunities for our residents and businesses, contributing to a brighter future for our region,” Bondy added.

“I am thrilled to witness the start of the final phase in the expansion of Highway

3 from Essex to Leamington. This significant development marks a pivotal step toward cutting down commute times and enhancing the safety and efficiency of travel for residents and the countless individuals and businesses reliant on this critical route. Thanks to this project, our region stands at the cusp of a new era of connectivity and growth. We are deeply appreciative of the Ontario government’s investment in improving our infrastructure and look forward to the positive impacts this expansion will bring to our community and the region as a whole,” stated Essex County Warden and Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens called the Highway 3 widening “a gamechanger” for the region. He cited the hospital, Gordie Howe International Bridge, and the battery plant as examples of economic growth.

“This region has been identified as one of the fastest-growing communities in Ontario and across Canada. I am thankful that the Ontario government continues to prioritize building and improving infrastructure that will help our region advance,” said Dilkens.

Essex County preparing for solar eclipse that will occur April 8

By Fred Groves

On Monday, April 8, Southern Ontario will experience an event that has not happened here in nearly 100 years.

At 1:58:11 p.m. a partial eclipse will begin and continue for nearly two-and-a-half hours. A full eclipse from 3:12:50 until 3:16:06 will occur and it’s the first time since 1925.

Field officers from Emergency Management Ontario told Essex County council what the region should prepare for during last Wednesday’s meeting.

“For many of us, myself included, it’s probably the only one we’ll ever get to see. We keep that in mind, it’s a very large event,” said St. Clair Sector Field Officer Darin Dees.

According to Dees and Holly Robert, Essex County could see an influx of visitors to the area to see the eclipse which could put a strain on infrastructure

including traffic jams and possibly an increase in the need for emergency services.

“Depending on the weather, you could see a large migration of people to the event,” said Dees.

In 2017, the United States experienced a full eclipse and according to Robert, the information gathered there is being put to good use here in Ontario.

“We’ve been fortunate that the U.S. got to experience this in 2017. We are grateful to take some of the lessons learned from what they experienced,” said Ward.

One of those is to not directly look up into the sky during the full eclipse without wearing protective, certified glasses. For those who want to view it, the best protection to prevent eye injury is ISO 12312-12 special solar filter and Robert and Dees warned against imitation eye wear that could harm your eyes.

“If the weather is good, we could see a lot of people coming to the north shore of Lake Erie and to the Niagara region,” said Dees.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

According to Essex Deputy Mayor Rob Shepley, Essex Councillor Rodney Hammond has organized an event at Colchester Harbour to view the eclipse and a special sailing of the Pelee Island ferry is scheduled with 300 tickets already sold out, including three to County Warden Hilda MacDonald.

“I’m looking forward to experiencing this,” said MacDonald.

Students are being let out of school at 1 p.m. A solar eclipse is when the sun’s disk is completely covered by the moon’s shadow. The next one is not expected until 2099.

MacDonald wanted to know just how dark it will get in Essex County, asking, “will it be similar to being like 8 p.m. in the winter? What kind of darkness is expected?”

Robert said it will be as dark as a winter’s night and that the temperature could dip by five to eight degrees.

Resident not happy with town taking on debt for new fire station

I find it disturbing that the price of the

was

speaking.

I know I can’t go to the bank with a financial plan like that. I can’t say well

maybe we will sell this or get a grant, or we will try to lower the costs.

I’m not happy with a cash strapped town taking on debt of $950,000 a year, and hoping something falls in our laps to reduce the cost.

I’m watching historical buildings in town get completely restored and brought up to code with far less money, and no, this is not like going to the bank and taking out a mortgage on a new house.

This is like going to the bank and asking for a mortgage on a new house while being deeply in debt, with other back breaking financial problems coming my way.

If you didn’t vote for Holger Kretschmann, a dollar and cents man with experience handling big budgets, and you’re upset with a 6.44 per cent increase in taxes, then that’s our fault.

—Kurt Reffle Amherstburg

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR POLICY

• Letters must stay in the 250-350 word range please.

• We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar and length. We also reserve the right to edit letters for any concerns relating to possible libel/slander issues.

• We reserve the right to not publish letters that we view inflammatory, inaccurate or ‘rants’ against specific people, groups, religions, governments or ethnic organizations. Those rants are more suited to

social media.

• We will gladly print letters commending specific people or organizations in the community, as we believe that this helps the community as a whole.

• Please sign your letters and provide a phone number for verification or questions if we need to reach out to you.

• Anonymous letters are not printed as we cannot verify their origin.

Send letters to mail@rivertowntimes.com or drop off at the office: 80 Richmond St., Unit 9 or mail to: River Town Times, 80 Richmond St., Amherstburg ON

Essex-Windsor EMS continues to look for efficiencies in the county

By Fred Groves

As call volumes for ambulances increases in the region, the strain upon Windsor-Essex EMS continues.

EMS Chief Justin Lammers reported that his service continues to find ways to handle more and more calls during last Wednesday’s county council meeting.

“Year-after-year we are increasing. We continue to work diligently to find efficiencies,” he said.

In 2015, there were 52,000 calls and that is predicted to jump to 65,000 by 2025. Lammers said that there was a seven percent increase in 2023 from the previous year.

Lammers told county council that some of the programs they are utilizing are being part of the designated off-load nurse program at hospitals, along with upstaffing ambulances during periods of high volume, as well as being in constant communication with the hospitals themselves.

Lammers also said that they are trying all options with their hospital partners and that the Paramedic Off Load Program is good, but could be coming to an end.

“We started the paramedic off-load program two

years ago to combat rising increases in Code Blacks.”

Code Black is when no ambulances in the area are available. Code Red is when up to three are available and Code Yellow is 4 to 10 are in service.

The off-load program allows one ambulance crew to take over for up to three others at the hospital during off-load delays which could therefore put two ambulances back into the community.

“While this is a good program to leverage in a crisis such as a mass casualty incident, it’s not a process we want to use on a regular basis,” said Lammers.

Tecumseh Mayor Gary McNamara wanted to know what the actual value was of having that program.

Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy was concerned about the increase in calls and LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche wanted to know whether or not having more ambulances was the solution to solving some of the off-load problems.

“I don’t think anyone would disagree that EMS has been overworked and put in a very strenuous, unfair situation for many years now,” said Meloche.

Lammers said that the service is working on a master plan that is moving in the right direction and that the county might be called upon, in the future, to lobby the province for some assistance.

Lending support to local sports program

Capri Pizza in Amherstburg, thanks to owner Leo Saleem, has sponsored the football program at North Star High School and contributed $400. Players and coaches turned out Tuesday afternoon to accept the cheque. The football team’s booster club, led by parents Ken and Lisa Greason along with numerous other parents, are helping to raise funds for such things as new equipment, transportation to games, helping players who otherwise couldn’t afford it and other expenses.

Also last Wednesday night, the county preapproved the purchase of several new EMS vehicles as part of the 2025 budget. This will include buying eight ambulances at $1,878,195 (plus HST), two emergency response vehicles with conversion for $249,642, and two new pickup trucks also with conversion at $318,000.

Considering replacements, the EMS adds one new ambulance to its fleet to support the increase in paramedic staffing.

RTT PHOTO BY RON GIOFU

The Ontario Government gives school boards money for the education system. This is called Ontario Grants for Student Needs Funding, or GSN for short. Over the past 4 years, this funding has increased by 8.2% for the GECDSB. At the same time, student enrolment has remained relatively flat.

Committee of adjustment OK’s setback relief for new fire station

By Ron Giofu

The town’s committee of adjustment approved granting relief to a front yard setback for the new Amherstburg fire station to be built at the Libro Centre.

That approval did come with concerns from some members of the committee, with the belief the fire station could be pushed back from County Road 18 so that it is far enough away from the road.

“Should Council decide to proceed with the Fire Station, this minor variance will be required to be approved in order for timelines to be met. As such Administration is proactively seeking the approvals to avoid any delays in time which may affect costs should Council decide to proceed,” town planner and committee secretary/treasurer Janine Mastronardi said in a report to the committee. “The applicant is proposing the construction of a Fire Station fronting on County Road 18 on the subject property with a front yard setback of 14m and two driveways, one 6.7 metres in width and one 30 m in width.”

Mastronardi said a minor variance was being sought to allow relief from a section of a bylaw that requires a 25m minimum front yard depth for non-residential uses. The proposed development has a front yard setback of 14 m.

“The applicant is also requesting relief from Zoning By-law 1999-52, as amended, Section 3(23)(i)(ix) which permits a maximum driveway width of 10 m for agricultural uses. The proposed development has one driveway width of 6.7m and one driveway width of 30m,” she added. “Therefore, the amount of relief requested is 11 m in front yard setback to permit a 14m front yard setback from County Road 18 and 20 metres in driveway width to permit a 30 m driveway width on County Road 18.”

Mastronardi said the county road setback is in compliance and the agricultural setback for this public setback is greater than what the county road setback requires.

Committee member Terris Buchanan wanted Montone’s response to the suggestion from a nearby

resident about moving the entrance/exit to Meloche Road. Montone said that was originally considered but “negotiating the intersection becomes difficult and excessively expensive because we would be required to control the traffic signals.”

“The majority of calls we will receive for this station are actually in the core, which means having to turn left,” he added. “We would need to control the traffic signals and that’s in the neighbourhood of $600,000.”

Buchanan noted the request for 11m of relief from the bylaw was being requested and wondered if the building could just be pushed back 9m, noting it is already on municipally-owned land at the Libro Centre.

“By moving the building back, that is going to reduce the amount of open spaces currently used for recreational purposes – soccer fields, etc.,” said Montone. “We’re already by placing the building in the location that it is, that is going to reduce the amount of open space that can be used for recreational activities. So we tried to place it to maximize the location and minimize the negative impact on the open sports fields.”

Buchanan also wanted to know the length of a fire truck, with Montone adding when a vehicle is pulled out on the “apron” outside of a fire station, sufficient space is required.

“We need the vehicles to be able to clear the doors before they begin to turn,” he said.

Buchanan said he was concerned about distance from the road allowance, noting sometimes vehicles have to pull onto it on occasion.

“If you have a 15m truck and a 14m-long front yard, you don’t have enough room to park that without blocking the road allowance,” said Buchanan.

“But not the road,” responded Montone.

Buchanan expressed discomfort with parking that close to the road, particularly when there is room to move the building back. He was concerned about how close the building and driveways are to County Road 18, also known as Pike Road or Simcoe St.

“I would invite you to take a look at what we have right here at town hall. There will be a greater distance

than what you see there,” said Montone. “You will be able to be setback a greater distance from the road than what we have here.”

Montone added there has been “sufficient allowance” made for the amount of people that could potentially use the new fire station at any one time.

Mastronardi added that the driveway in front will not be used for parking, just for the exit, and parking is inside the building or in the rear.

Committee chair Anthony Campigotto noted the distance to turn a fire truck, and believed the way it is set up now “is an ideal situation because it provides an extra buffer for safety.” Buchanan questioned what would happen if the road was widened to four lanes.

“It’s a major road,” said Buchanan. “That’s my concern. We’ve got nine metres in behind. It’s taking away a bit of a field but we’ve got it, why not use it? It would make it safer for everyone. They can pull the trucks ahead nine metres if they want to see the road.”

Campigotto said there is sufficient land, even if the road is widened, and believes there still is a greater degree of safety when exiting. There are traffic calming measures planned to indicate to drivers fire trucks are responding to a call, he added.

Manager of planning services Chris Aspila added if any future development in the area were to occur in that area, it would have to account for the new fire station. If there are any future alterations to County Road 18, it would be subject to an environmental assessment process and an “engineered solution” would take everything into consideration.

Mastronardi said the transportation master plan that is being proposed calls for slowing traffic in that area of County Road 18 and not to widen lanes.

Committee member Don Shaw said he likes the location of the entrance/exit, noting if there was an emergency when vehicles are leaving the Libro Centre, he wouldn’t want to navigate that.

“It’s a good starting point. You can go in all directions,” said Shaw, of the driveway access. “I’m not concerned about the distance off the road. I think it’s adequate.”

Local theatre group staging production of “Grease” next month

By Ron Giofu

An Essex County theatre group is getting ready for its production of “Grease” next month.

The Windsor-Essex Community Arts Project (WECAP) is presenting the play April 5-13 at the Villanova Festival Theatre.

“We’ve got 28 young people in the cast,” said director Bonnie Porteous. “We’ve been running rehearsals since late summer.”

Much of the cast returns from last year’s production of “Rock of Ages” but Porteous pointed out they have new faces this year.

“The cast is very tight,” said Porteous. “They’re cohesive. The new people fit like a glove.”

The youngest member of the cast is 12-years-old and the oldest is 21. In addition to Porteous, others guiding the youth are musical director Ian Smith, choreographer Annajayne MacNeil and technical director Bill Porteous.

Youth come from Amherstburg, Essex, Belle River, Harrow, Leamington, Tecumseh and Kingsville. Rehearsals are at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Essex as a way to have a central location.

“This is our third season,” said Porteous. “Every year we get more and more people. Everyone who auditions gets cast. We find a place for everyone.”

WECAP tries to be a place where

students can come and discover talents they didn’t think they had or develop the talents they have even further. They want the youth to have fun and learn at the same time.

“I’m very proud of the kids and the work they’re putting in,” said Porteous. “It’s a new experience for a lot of the kids. They are doing super well.”

According to WECAP’s website, their mission “is to bring together local talent, youth, and members of the community to create art that is inclusive, accessible and engaging. Our theatre provides a welcoming and safe space for everyone to come together and share their love of the performing arts. We offer a variety of theatre-based programs, classes and workshops to help foster creativity in the community.”

Tickets for adults are $30 plus HST while students and seniors are $25 plus HST. All shows are at 7:30 p.m. except the April 7 and April 13 shows, which start at 2 p.m. For more information, visit WECAP’s website at wecommunityartsproject.com.

Local realtor wins “Rookie of the Year” at his firm

By Ron Giofu

A local realtor has captured a pair of awards, including “Rookie of the Year.”

Gregory Moore won that award as well as a “Silver Excellence Award” from Deerbrook Realty for his efforts since joining the firm. The awards are based on the volume of sales.

“We have 220 realtors at Deerbrook,” said Moore. “I’ve only been there since the end of May.”

Moore believed the Silver Excellence Award was a good accomplishment since he hasn’t been there a year yet. He said he was only $10,000 away from the Gold Excellence Award, crediting his success to “hard work, determination, grit and work ethic.”

Becoming a realtor has become a second career for Moore.

“I left Chrysler. I was there about 22 years. I left there and went back to school. It was tough in real estate school but I

PLEASE REMEMBER-REMOVAL OF ITEMS

Rose Hill, St. John the Baptist (Amherstburg) ; Heavenly Rest, Sacred Heart (LaSalle) ; St. Alphonsus, Assumption, Our Lady of the Lake (Windsor) ; St. William's (Emeryville)

Please remember to remove all items from gravesites should you wish to retain them. This includes winter wreaths, blankets, solar lights, artificial flowers, as well as all other items by:

March 31, 2024

Any items not removed by this day, will be removed and disposed of in order to prepare for annual spring maintenance.

Thank you for your co-operation.

519-969-4836

finished that in about eight months,” said Moore, saying there was “no Plan B.”

Moore said he likes making his own schedule.

“If you work really hard you can do really well,” said Moore.

There is a lot of door knocking and networking with new people, he added, and that has led to him getting listings from across Essex County.

“A lot of miles on the car,” said Moore.

A goal for Moore is that he wants to be the top agent in the brokerage.

“I want to give people such a client experience that we become friends after the transaction,” he said.

Clients have already started calling him for other services, he added.

Moore added he tries to help his clients stay on top of things and treat people well.

The two-time council candidate said that didn’t hurt him in gaining recognition but he added relationships he already built are also a factor. He said he has lived in Amherstburg for 25 years and was raised in Harrow. He can be reached at 519-817-2918.

The Windsor-Essex Community Arts Project (WECAP), which includes youth from Amherstburg, is presenting “Grease” next month at the Villanova Festival Theatre. They rehearse twice per week at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Essex.

Gregory Moore won Rookie of the Year and a Silver Excellence Award from Deerbrook.

Kicks & Giggles

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20

Aries, if you notice you have been running into obstacles as you work to achieve your goals, you may want to step back and try to figure out another course of action.

TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21

Taurus, an offer that notes your efforts and achievements comes your way. Do not let this immediately go to your head, but enjoy the fruits of your labors.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Lately your willpower has been week, Gemini. If diet plans are getting sidelined by your inability to stay on track, you may want to enlist a buddy to keep you motivated.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, take a break when you can because there is soon to be a whirlwind of activity coming in your direction. Enjoy down time while it is still available to you.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, exercise caution so that your actions are not misinterpreted. You do not want others thinking you are doing things for the wrong reasons. Try to lighten up and be positive this week.

VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22

This week you could find yourself being the center of attention at a gathering with friends or family, Virgo. Use the opportunity to get your thoughts out there and heard.

LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, you will need to pick a course and stick with it, especially over the next few days. There is a lot of temptation out there but if you don’t commit you’ll never get things done.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Arguments that have been slowly building up may come to a head this week, Scorpio. Your best bet is to stay out of the fray by keeping your distance and avoiding commentary.

SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21

Sagittarius, it is possible that someone new you will meet this week can become a close friend who sticks with you through thick and thin. Look for this person in the days to come.

CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, now might be a time to figure out how to reduce some stress, especially if you find that people are avoiding you as of late. A change in attitude is all it takes.

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

You might be ready to delve into the next chapter of a relationship, Aquarius. Figure out what means the most to you and move those priorities to the forefront.

PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20

Inspiration comes your way this week, Pisces. You will have plenty of time to do anything you want to put your mind to. Start making that running list of ideas.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

MARCH 10 - Carrie Underwood, Singer (41)

MARCH 11 - Johnny Knoxville, Actor (53)

MARCH 12 - James Taylor, Singer (76)

MARCH 13 - William H. Macy, Actor (74)

MARCH 14 - Stephen Curry, Athlete (36)

MARCH 15 - Eva Longoria, Actress (49)

MARCH 16 - Lauren Graham, Actress (57)

By Ron Giofu

Outdoor enthusiasts got a chance to hunt and obtain hunting supplies at and near the AMA Sportsmen Association over the weekend.

Big Buck Sunday saw hunters hit 3-D targets on a patch of land across Lowes Side Road from the club and then they put their bows and arrows down and headed inside the club for a swap meet/ craft show and lunch.

Bob Wilson, who helps organize “Big Buck Sunday” for the AMA Sportsmen Association, said it has been a regular event there for about three decades.

“We’ve been doing this off and on for about 30 years,” said Wilson. “Some years, we get a lot of people. Some years, we don’t.”

The event usually happens this time of year.

“Every year in March, we try to do this,” said Wilson. “We usually do very well. We’ve had years where people have been out in the yard.”

The 3-D shoot sees not only adult

“Big Buck Sunday” held at AMA Sportsmen Association A magical luncheon

archers, but children as well with the kids shooting for free.

“It’s an event to get people in here,” said Wilson.

People can clean out their closets and garages and bring their leftover or unused hunting equipment to the club for the sale. Wilson said one person stopped hunting, brought their supplies to the club and it was available to other hunters for a donation to the club.

Wilson added that the craft show was not just open to hunting, fishing or for any kind of sportsman. Crafts, sweets and more were part of the event Sunday. Everyone is welcome, he said, and there was no charge to walk in and look around.

They used to draw in larger businesses such as ATV and boat dealerships.

“Times change,” said Wilson.

The club has started a second “Big Buck Sunday” with it being held in September.

Wilson said the event is a good chance to sell equipment as the events are held as part of hunting season.

WORD

SCRAMBLE

Rearrange the letters to spell something pertaining to St. Patrick’s Day.

Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) presented its “Feast with Friends” luncheon last Thursday with a meal followed by a performance from magician Craig Hinds. Hinds demonstrated several tricks involving rings (left) and cards (below) with Hinds involving members of the audience. The next “Feast with Friends” is March 21 at a cost of $9

Rodney Pillon of Silver Creek Custom Box Calls was one of the vendors at “Big Buck Sunday” at the AMA Sportsmen Association. He displayed his goods last Sunday morning.

per person.

RTT PHOTOS BY RON GIOFU

RTT PHOTO BY FRED GROVES

Admirals eliminated in five games by the Blades

By Fred Groves

The bad news for the Amherstburg Admirals – they saw their 2023-24 PJHL season come to an end Thursday night.

The good news, last Tuesday night at the Libro Centre, they beat the Blenheim Blades 4-3 in overtime to win their first playoff game since 2019-2020.

In last Tuesday’s game, it was tied 2-2 after the first and the hosts had a 3-2 lead after 40 minutes. The back story was that facing elimination in the best-of-seven series, it could have been the final game for overagers Mitch Demelo, Jacob Archer, Derek Berdusco and Jaxon Boucher.

“I knew it could have been the last game of my career. We came in and battled hard. We wanted to extend the series and send a message to Blenheim that they couldn’t take us down in four games,” said Demelo.

Due to out-of-town work commitments followed by a 13-game suspension, Demelo only got into a handful of games this season but there is no doubt the Admirals were much better when he was on the ice.

There was a huge celebration on the ice when Finnigan Russett got the winner, his second of the night, on a breakaway in extra time with veteran defenseman Jaydn Brown drawing the assist. Throughout the overtime, Amherstburg coach Beau Hunter opted to play everyone.

“It’s tough, you don’t know if it’s going to be a minute or last 20 minutes,” he said of overtime. “The guys were gassed. It’s tough as a coach but everyone was included tonight.”

While Russett was the star offensively, rookie goalie Joe Costea turned in his best performance of the year making a whopping 49 saves. Also scoring last Tuesday for the Admirals were rookie Brett Jones and Archer.

“We played a more solid game defensively tonight,” said Demelo of Tuesday’s win. “We put a lot of pucks on their net.”

Noting that the Admirals were on the brink of elimination after dropping three straight to the Blades, Hunter commented on what the pregame plan was.

“It was a do or die game. Do you want to come back to the dressing room and think you left stuff on the ice or do you give it your all and see what happens?”

Thursday night in Blenheim, the Admirals trailed 3-2 after 20 minutes but dominated the middle frame and held a slim one goal lead, 5-4 heading into the second break.

However, the Blades stormed out in the third and within 56 seconds scored twice, putting the Admirals back on their heels which they did not recover from. Archer and Russett each scored twice and, in dramatic fashion, Demelo opened the scoring. It was his final tally of a four-year career.

The finale saw Blenheim convert 3-of-7 on the powerplay while the Admirals were 0-for-4.

Mitch Demelo led the team in scoring twice and the Amherstburg native’s numbers are 133 total games played, 45 goals and 57 assists for 102 points. His 45 goals puts him tenth all-time on the Admirals’ list.

Also playing their final junior games on Sunday were Archer who had a very good career with Essex before coming to Amherstburg this year, Berdusco and fellow defenseman Boucher.

SLAPSHOTS: During the five playoff games with the Blades, Mitch Demelo’s younger brother Connor led the Addys with six points… For Blenheim, who now advance to play the Essex 73’s, captain Craig Spence had 13 points.

Wolves come home from OFSAA with a bronze medal

By Ron Giofu

The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team’s season has ended with a bronze medal at the provincial level.

The Wolves defeated Oakridge Secondary School out of London in the bronze medal match at the OFSAA “AA” tournament last week. It ran last Monday through Wednesday in Sydenham, located near Kingston.

The fourth-seeded Wolves went undefeated in pool play and knocked off Sir Winston Churchill SS (St. Catharines) 22-25, 25-15, 25-10 and 25-21 in the championship quarterfinals last Tuesday afternoon.

The Wolves lost 19-25, 13-25 and 19-25 to top-seeded and eventual champion Beatrice-Desloges (Orleans) in the semifinals last Wednesday morning but rebounded against Oakridge later in the day.

“Overall, the kids couldn’t have had a better tournament,” said head coach Jeff Miller. “They got the absolute most out of what they had.”

This year’s team had to battle injuries, including season-ending knee injuries to Addison Prieur at the start of the year and Lillian Mereszak midway through the season, but Miller said the rest of the team battled through it admirably. He believed last year’s team had more talent but lost a heartbreaker in the championship semi-finals before settling for the antique bronze medal in the bronze medal match.

“To make it back (to OFSAA) was an accomplishment,” said Miller.

Going undefeated in pool play was another accomplishment, he added, and noted this year’s match against Sir Winston Church was a rematch of a “spicy” match from 2023. Miller said there was bad blood from last year.

“For us, to play together as a team and take them down was gratifying for

everybody,” he said.

Beatrice-Desloges returned all of their players from last year and have three NCAA Division 1 bound players.

“They were on another level,” said Miller. “Whoever played them, that’s where their tournament ended.”

Beating Oakridge in the championship semi-finals was another accomplishment, with Miller noting Oakridge has been a powerhouse at the “AAA” level that now plays at the “AA” division.

“The team they had was phenomenal,” said Miller. “For us to play as a team and knock them off was pretty amazing.”

The coaching staff, which also included Mary Ewer and Mya Foreman, were pleased with all of the players on the team.

“Lauren Essenpreis was just a special player at this tournament influencing the game in every way possible. Good serving, passing, defense and of course an offensive wrecking machine,” said Miller. “If Lauren was ‘Batman’ throughout, Emily Beauregard was a terrific ‘Robin’ as she was outstanding throughout as well having big matches in the quarters and bronze medal matches for example.”

Essenpreis had 34 kills in the bronze medal match, which is “an insane number,” while Beauregard had 16.

“Lily Mulder has been getting better all season and saved her best for last,” said Miller. “Her setting, game management and athleticism at the net was truly impressive to watch. Audrey Dib and Morgan Hadfield were forced to play different positions than what they are used to and performed extremely well at all times. They were very reliable servers, defenders and were big parts of making our ‘out of system’ offense flow as freely as it does.”

Continued on Page 17

With Admirals’ forward Owen Papulkas (right) in pursuit, defenceman Jake Goudreault tangles with Blenheim’s Landon Hoskins during Game 4 at the Libro Centre.

The North Star Wolves senior girls volleyball team captured bronze at OFSAA “AA” volleyball tournament last week. Top row (from left): coach Jeff Miller, Addison Prieur, Lily Mulder, Audrey Dib, Abby Beaudoin, Briana Renaud, Lillian Mereszak, and coach Mary Ewer. Bottom row (from left): Morgan Hadfield, Emily Beauregard, Lauren Essenpreis and Jerzie Rego.

SUBMITTED

PHOTO

Wom e n’s History Month Special Palette

to Palate

Artists Morgan & Carole Deschaine

Ladybug Landing Glass & Copperfish Creations

In a town steeped in history and creativity, there reside two artists making waves in the local art scene. Meet mother and daughter Carole and Morgan Deschaine, each with their own distinct artistic style and approach, but with the same passion and dedication to their chosen crafts. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we delve into their inspiring stories, their artistic processes, and their contributions to our vibrant arts community.

Carole, the artist behind Copperfish Creations, finds her muse in the interplay of wood, metal, and copper. With a penchant for upcycling, Carole uses materials donated by a woodworking company, transforming discarded remnants of wood into exquisite pieces of art.

Beyond their personal pursuits, both women are deeply involved in fostering artistic growth within the community. Morgan’s previous tenure on the board of the Gibson Gallery exemplifies her commitment to nurturing local talent, while Carole’s multifaceted roles as VP and board member reflect her dedication to advancing the arts in Amherstburg.

“I enjoy being part of the gallery. I think it’s a gem in Amherstburg, and I feel like there’s a lot we do for the community, and a lot more that we can do in the future,” says Carole

“I played around in my dad’s welding shop as a child. I used the hammer and anvil, grinders, saws, and other power tools,” says Carole. “I feel like the artistic flair is part of our family. My mother is an avid sewer, my dad was a welder, and he was artistic in the way he crafted things.”

Meanwhile, her daughter Morgan, the gifted founder of Ladybug Landing Glass, masters the realm of flameworking, also known as lampworking. Armed with a torch, oxygen concentrator, and propane, Morgan melts glass into small, whimsical creations that inspire the imagination. Her journey into glass artistry began unexpectedly at the age of 14 on a family trip.

“We came across this motel that was tie-dye, and my parents being my parents were like ‘let’s check it out’. The woman running it had a lampworking studio attached to the motel, and I just fell in love with everything,” said Morgan. Upon returning home she reached out to Essex Stained Glass for a lesson.

“After that lesson, my mom surprised me with my first lampworking kit, and I’ve taught myself everything that I know since then, starting in my parent’s garage.”

“She figured everything out all on her own, the only contribution I had was buying her her first glass kit, and cheering her on and supporting her in the background on the way. I’m so proud of you!” Carole tells Morgan. “You’re so cute!” replied Morgan.

“I would love to rejoin the board of directors when I have more free time,” says Morgan. “When I was on the board I was very passionate about growing their Artisan Shop to give artists more opportunity to showcase their work.”

Asked if art has enough representation in town, Morgan thinks there’s still much left to be desired. “That’s a growing area in Amherstburg that I think is amazing, but I would love to see more,” she says. “I see a trajectory in the town, especially with the second annual Art Crawl coming, and the support that has been generated by businesses in town to help promote it and help ensure its growth and sustainability,” says Carole. “I’m happy that the Gibson Gallery is participating in it again this year, and hopefully will continue to do so in the future. I feel like initiatives like this will grow the culture of art in the town.“

Despite their successes, Carole and Morgan also acknowledge the challenges women face in the art world, from gender disparities to the undervaluation of female artists. Yet, they remain undeterred, finding fulfillment in the act of creation and the joy of connecting with audiences.

Morgan and Carole’s individual artistic processes offer insight into their distinct approaches. For Morgan, lampworking is a meditative escape. Carole, on the other hand, finds comfort in the solitude of her studio sanctuary, where creativity flows freely to the rhythm of her music.

“It’s stress relieving for me. My mom gets into her ‘Chi’ as she calls it; I don’t use that term, but I call it my Zen,” Morgan quips.

Making art in a small town comes with its own set of challenges. “Just being able to get my work out there to be seen and known, it’s challenging in a small town,” says Morgan “I have been building my social media following for years, and I’ve had several viral videos which have amassed millions of views, but locally I’m not very well known.”

“Pricing art is very difficult because it’s hard for people to see value in it, and it’s hard for an artist, knowing how much time and effort you put into it that you’re actually going to get paid for the hard work you’ve done,” says Carole.

Their advice for aspiring women artists resonates with wisdom borne of experience. Morgan urges emerging talents to find their specialty and embrace self-promotion, while Carole emphasizes the importance of perseverance and authenticity in the face of adversity.

“Take the time to explore everything about your form of art, and find whatever it is that you’re good at and run with it,” suggests Morgan. “I used to want lots of variety to show and sell, but it wasn’t until I found my niche, which is plant stakes, that I ended up thriving,” she continues. “And put yourself out there! People are very critical of their own art, but we’re too hard on ourselves. If you think someone isn’t going to like your work or is going to judge it, I guarantee there’s ten other people that are going to love it.“

Morgan’s work is out there for all to see @ladybuglandingglass on Instagram and TikTok, with her online shop on Etsy. Carole can be found on Instagram @copperfishcreations where she can be contacted directly for inquiries about her work, and be sure to check out her upcoming exhibit at the Gibson Gallery with artist Cheryl Borkowski - A Medley of Mediums, from June 25th to July 14th.

Special to the RTT by Matthew Zaidan

Morgan Deschaine with one her glass plant stake creations.

Each fish gets a name throughout the process. “ Horton” was completed last year for Carole’s nephew, Ryan Varney (left).

Carole and Morgan hosting a friends and family paint night.

Morgan’s creations are unique, functional, and make excellent gifts and/or decorations for your own home and garden.

Hairstylist Kim Coté Lavender Hair Lounge

There comes a point in our life where we find ourselves in need of a haircut. Or perhaps something even more drastic. But what happens if you’re new in town? The options can be overwhelming, and finding a stylist that you get along with and trust with your hair is akin to finding a unicorn. That is to say, it can be extremely difficult. It’s almost like dating, where you might have to date a few stylists until you meet “the one” and decide to become exclusive. In this instance, it’s helpful to have a friend act as matchmaker and make recommendations on where she gets her hair done, which is how I ended up meeting Kim Coté at the Lavender Hair Lounge in downtown Amherstburg.

I’ve been “seeing” Kim (in the hair sense) for a year and a half now and I love my visits to the salon. While I’ve been to salons in the past that felt sterile and unwelcoming, Lavender is the true opposite. It’s light and bright, comfy and cozy, serene and spacious. When she sat down almost four years ago and envisioned what it would be like, these are the things she thought about. Kim explains “I wanted something that was going to suit the vibe we were going for – which is relaxing and upscale, but chill. Not only is lavender a relaxing and calming scent, but it also happens to be a color! It felt like a good fit.” Who wouldn’t love going into a place where you can relax in a comfy chair while drinking fancy tea or sparkling water, and then come out looking amazingly? This is why Kim and her partner Laura Gauthier have such a successful business. It’s tough to believe that Kim might not have even been a hairstylist.

“My family preferred me to go to school for something “more lucrative”, so I took a three year Human Resources program at St. Clair, and when I graduated, we were hitting a recession and jobs were scarce. So I convinced my family to let me try hairstyling – six months later, I was enrolled at Marvel Beauty School and received my diploma one year after that. I had received three job offers before I graduated.” Kim speculates that if she wasn’t doing hair, she’d likely be working in HR somewhere, but she wouldn’t be as fulfilled as she is now. And while it may not seem like it, having that HR background has definitely helped with her own business. After all, doing hair requires you to chat with clients all day long, and in addition to that, Lavender Hair Lounge actually rents out station space to other stylists. Managing all of this and running a business definitely makes use of those people skills.

As we laud the trailblazing women of our community for Women’s History Month, this microcosm of female business owners is nothing short of inspiring. Kim puts it best; “We offer booth rental in our salon, meaning our stylists rent chairs from us and are in turn, their own bosses. So to top it all off, we’re surrounded by many amazing female small business owners every single day, and they are powerhouses!

of people tell you that you can’t do it, it’s too much work, that you won’t make enough money, that it’s just a ‘hobby’, that you should focus on your family, or get a ‘real job’. They’re wrong. You CAN do it. Yes it is a lot of work, but the reward is greater. Stay driven and focused and nothing will stop you from achieving what you want.”

Lavender Hair Lounge also puts out positive energy into the world by supporting local charities and girl’s sports. Every holiday season in December they donate to a different organization. One year they raised money for the Alzheimer Society of Windsor-Essex in honor of Kim’s grandfather who passed away from vascular dementia. Last year they gave clothing items to the Windsor Youth Centre, and they’ll donate non-perishable food items to the Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission.

There is also an adorable photo plaque on the wall next to the cash register showing the smiling, happy faces of the championship winning girl’s youth soccer team they sponsored (wearing purple jerseys, of course). With all of these things going on, it probably seems like Kim lives at the salon, but she does have free time here and there, during which you can find her doing whatever her two-year old son wants to do, practicing self-care, eating out with friends, or rocking out at a concert. While she’s at the salon though, it’s all about hair. I asked her some deep questions about the job, because enquiring minds want to know.

not easy. There are a few things I can manage myself, but I prefer to talk someone else into doing it for me, which usually involves having to do their hair too!

Q What’s your favorite or absolute must have tool in the salon?

A: I really like my curling iron, it’s a great curling iron! And music – it makes the long days so much easier.

Q What’s a historical hairstyle that you think we absolutely should bring back? And conversely, what’s a hairstyle that we should never have to see again?

A: Large, deep waves like in the 40’s, and bright, yellow, permed hair from the 80’s. (RTT note: look, everyone was getting permed in the 80’s and 90’s, don’t judge us).

So whether you’re looking to get a standard cut, or a scalp massage (yes, a new service!), or maybe even a perm or Italian flag beard, a visit to Kim, Laura, or one of their independent stylists is in order. Plus, there are some other exciting things coming up that you don’t want to miss. If you also love and miss Terra Green Gardens which used to be right next door to Lavender, then you’ll be happy to learn that these two forward thinking business ladies are collaborating on a line of hair care products. All I can say is, I’m likely a Lavender Lady for Life.

Special to the RTT by Tammy Joho

They’re amazing moms, wives, friends, sisters, aunts, and small business owners, and we’re fortunate to be able to learn from and grow with them.” It’s important to see women supporting other women, because many times, even today, they are not taken seriously as entrepreneurs, or they are questioned every step of the way if they really know what they are talking about. Yes, still, in March of 2024. Kim offers advice and wisdom for ladies wanting to pursue their dream of starting a business. “You’ll have lots

Q: What do you love about doing hair?

A: I love the challenge it brings every day! Hair can be so much more complex than some people realize – no two heads are the same. I also love getting to know people from all different places and all different walks of life.

Q: What is the weirdest thing a customer has ever asked you to do to their hair?

A: I once coloured a man’s beard like an Italian flag for a soccer championship game.

Q: Do you do your own hair? And if so, how the heck do you manage that?

A: I try very hard to avoid doing my own hair, because it’s

Kim takes pride in her space and providing a positive customer experience.

We asked Kim if she consider herself an artist. “Absolutely! My canvas is almost always a collaboration, but every once in a while, if I’m lucky, I get a blank one!”

Kim Coté and her business partner Laura Gauthier.

Brewing Ellie Gurdebeke & Kim Iler The Beerded Dog

If you’re familiar with the classic song “One Piece at a Time” by Johnny Cash, you know that by the end he’s built a pretty amazing car. It’s reminiscent of the process at The Beerded Dog, where they brew one keg at a time and the beer keeps getting better and better each time. The Dog, as locals and employees fondly refer to it, is Harrow’s very own nanobrewery. They have won brewing awards, their food is wonderful; the taproom always seems to be busy and bustling, and the best part is that both the coowner and brewer are women. These two passionate ladies are Kim Iler and Ellie Gurdebeke.

The Beerded Dog got its name from the owners’ love of beer and dogs. These owners, Rae Kratz and the aforementioned Kim, were both working at Caesars Windsor, but had been off work for a couple of months due to a union strike. During this down time they decided to learn how to brew at home and immediately fell in love with the process. Eventually they found themselves back at work, but kept talking about how great it would be to open their own small brewery. As with many things in life, timing is everything, and the building where Beerded Dog is now became available. It already had a kitchen space, so all that was left to do was put in a small brewhouse somewhere. That part done, they opened for business in downtown Harrow in 2019. Rae works mostly front of house, while Kim takes care of the kitchen and back of house action, but obviously the beer doesn’t brew itself, so that’s where Ellie comes in.

Having weathered the storms of going on maternity leave, Covid shutdowns, and then eventually losing her retail job to a store closure, Ellie was thinking it might be time to embark on a new career path. She loves craft beer so she thought, maybe there was something there worth pursuing? Again, it’s all in the timing, and in early 2022 she saw on the news that a local female brewer was creating a special brew for Women’s Day (maybe some of you remember Shut Up, Rose?), and she decided to take this as a beer sign and get in touch with that brewer. From there it was a rapid progression of shadowing brew days, buying her own small system to brew at home, joining the Pink Boots Society, doing lots and lots of reading, and then stepping into the role of brewer at Beerded Dog just a few short months later. Have you ever heard the saying “Don’t wait until you’re confident to show up, show up until you’re confident”? That’s Ellie. Brewing beer is not easy because there are so many variables; the science alone could make your eyes cross, and of course you never know if the customer is even going to like the final product. But having support from local female brewers, a network of other professionals in the Pink Boots Society, and working for a female boss all provide a safe space to learn and make mistakes.

As she puts it, the PBS is “a no judgment zone. It doesn’t matter where you’re at in your career, you’re going to find someone you can share common ground with.”

While that mentality and attitude may seem like common sense, women who work in male-dominated fields can attest that it is not. Kim and Ellie both acknowledge that women still lack representation in the beer industry, and because of this, Kim takes matters into her own hands at times. “If I see someone interested in the beer, and I see her pop out, I always point her out; ‘Oh there’s our brewer!’” (All ladies should be so lucky to have a wing girl like Kim).

This year the Dog is participating in the Pink Boots Collaboration Brew Day. The event takes place at breweries all over the world, with donations going to PBS to fund educational opportunities for members. It’s their largest fundraiser of the year with breweries, cideries, wineries, and distilleries creating beverages in support of the initiative.

The special brew from Beerded Dog is yet to be determined, but it will be brewed in a couple of weeks with ladies from the Dog as well as other local industry females joining in. Ellie says “It’s a great networking opportunity and it helps give back to an organization that has helped me so much personally. I’d like to see other people benefit from it as well.” Anticipated release of this beer is around Mother’s Day, so stay tuned.

Female brewers are very few in number, and female brewery owners could be counted on a few hands. That’s why this unique pairing of Kim and Ellie is so important to our community, and to the brewing industry. As Kim says, “I just try to create a positive work environment here. I like to give women opportunity, to know that it’s a safe place and it’s OK to make mistakes. That’s how we learn. I just want to uplift people and be kind to them, and create a nice work environment for everyone.”

In addition to the PBS Collaboration Brew Day, the Beerded Dog also hosts a fundraising night once a month for local organizations. Usually held on a Wednesday, The Dog will donate $5 from every burger purchased, and $3 from every pint of beer to a local organization. Through this, they’ve supported Project Hope, the Harrow Foodbank, the Humane Society, and Harrow Hockey Moms. This is a major win for everyone involved because you get to eat some tasty burgers and these groups get a financial boost to keep doing what they’re doing. Let’s not forget too that in the coming months, Beerded Dog is going to be THE place to hang out in Harrow. They already host trivia nights, paint nights, live music on Sundays, and new beers that go on tap every so often. When the weather is nice, their outdoor patio will open up which means DOGS WELCOME. Everyone loves seeing these adorable fuzzy faces on the patio and Kim is always right there with homemade treats, (made from spent brew-

ing grain of course), and she’ll likely even put your pup’s photo on Instagram. In addition to this regular calendar of fun things, there are a few new things that they’re working on. They recently purchased a small canner as well as a whole load of silver bullets (i.e. cans), so you’re going to be seeing the to-go fridge stocked with more beer. It also means that they’re able to take on additional licensees who want to sell cans. Another project Kim is working on, to which I have applied to be a taste tester, is a separate vegan menu. This is HUGE for vegetarians and vegans as the options are severely limited in the area. (Also, in case you’re wondering, beer is, by definition, vegan). And outside of The Dog, there’s a lot happening in little Harrow; a new wine bar (Daisy and Co.), a new bakery (King Street Café), and an event space in the old Knights of Columbus Hall.

But let’s get back to our Beerded Dog ladies. As previously stated, there’s a lot that goes into being a brewer, and getting started can be intimidating, so what advice does Ellie have for other women who want to get into the industry? “Take a chance,” she says. “You never know until you start, and I feel like every step I’ve taken to get to where I am has happened exactly how it was supposed to happen. None of it would have happened if I hadn’t reached out.” If you’re reading this and feeling like you want to take that chance, or even just learn to brew for fun, The Beerded Dog offers a “Brewer for a Day” program with Ellie, where you can assist her on a brew day. Maybe you’ll be lucky to make one of her favorite dark beers (“they just smell amazing when you’re making them”), or Kim’s favorite, the Dog Gone Durango Berry Malt Cooler. You might even get to suggest your own style! But also be prepared to get wet, dusty, dirty, hot, and cold. The best part is that when the beer is ready, they’ll alert you it’s on tap and you’ll get a 6-pack.

As for Kim, she says there are times she feels overlooked because people just assume that her male partner is the sole owner. It’s not out of the ordinary for her to have someone tell her “I was talking to the owner the other day…”, not realizing that she is also an owner, and that women can hold these positions. It is 2024 after all. While not an attention seeker herself, and quick to make sure others are valued for their contributions, we are here to give credit where credit is due, and much of Beerded Dog’s success lies with Kim. She’s front of house, she’s back of house, she’s business minded, she makes it a welcoming space for employees; she’s basically steering this ship.

As a team, it’s clear that they’re also friends and support one another. Basically, I want to work here too now because I’m entranced by this supportive female environment. So the next time you find yourself at The Dog, and you’re enjoying the experience, make sure to tell them both how amazing they are. And maybe offer to buy them a beer?

Special to the RTT by

Tammy Joho

Kim and Ellie can’t wait for the nicer weather so they can welcome you onto the patio for beers.

Kim’s warm smile makes customers feel right at home.

Ellie in the brewhouse with her Sabco Brewmagic System.

Bakery

LLisa Rundle & Marta Leardi-Anderson King Street Café

istening to Lisa Rundle and Marta Leardi-Anderson chat with one another, you would think that they were sisters, or at the very least, best friends. They compliment and build each other up like any respectable cheerleader would. In reality though, these partners of the new King Street Café in downtown Harrow only met last fall when Lisa was looking for a location for her new bakery venture. Marta owns the former Oddfellows building near the corner of King and Queen Streets, and Lisa says she “fell in love with the building, fell in love with Marta; she’s awesome.” To which Marta immediately responds “Lisa is such an impressive baker, first of all, but more than that, she’s an impressive person. An impressive woman, hard-working; she’s dedicated to her craft, to her family, to her community, and why wouldn’t I want to go into business with someone like that?” And this is how a business is born folks.

Lisa is the baker, and while not formally trained, she’s been creating custom desserts and baked goods for close to ten years. Practice makes perfect as they say, and ten years is more than enough time to get some practice in. She also told me her stand mixer (named Bertha) is her favorite kitchen tool, so I feel like that’s what a true baker would say. In any event, she had her own daycare and worked as a nanny, while simultaneously running her own home based baking business (Pretty Pink Kitchen). Now that her charges are in their teens, she felt it was time to finally pursue her dream of having a bakery. Although her café will be in Harrow, Lisa lives in Windsor, so there had to be something that drew her to this charming town. Really, again, it was some of that right time, right place magic. Harrow is being rejuvenated

with new small businesses and the council is making it very welcoming for them. Lisa felt other areas were already flooded with cafés like hers, so the idea of being the only one in town was exciting (apologies to Tim H.).

As a board member of the Harrow Early Immigrant Research Society (HEIRS), Marta was also looking for a likeminded individual to lease the space to; someone who was enthusiastic about maintaining the historical integrity of the building. “Lisa fully understands my passion for the history of the building. I think it’s really neat how it’s all come together,” she tells me. This Independent Order of the Oddfellows building was constructed between 1912-1916 using all local tradesmen, contractors, and architects from Harrow and Kingsville. Given this poignant history, expect some black, white, and gold accented art deco ambience for the interior.

Of course, atmosphere is extremely important when it comes to creating an experience for your customer, but the real reason people will be lining up is for the baked goods. Alas, the café is not open just yet, so there were no samples and I had to settle for descriptions of what will be offered. As Lisa says, “we’re going to have a light menu; soups and sandwiches, coffee and teas, smoothies, and of course different desserts every day. We’ll have some staples that are constant, but we’ll change it up.” If you’re hoping to bring a beautiful cake to your next family gathering, then you’re in luck because she’s planning to offer custom orders as well. You might even see some vegan options from time to time, but sadly gluten free likely won’t make the menu. There just isn’t a way to make sure there’s no cross contamination and

keeping customers safe is extremely important to Lisa. The King St. Café has a tentative opening date of early April, but if you can’t wait that long, then head down to Harrow for cookie decorating at Daisy & Co. on March 18th, or on March 28th for a cheeky pop-up at King St. Café itself. At that Easter-adjacent event, Lisa says customers can expect “cookies, cupcakes, some chocolate covered pretzels and marshmallows; just some fun stuff. Maybe some peanut butter chocolate eggs.” If you want to get there first, make sure you’re following on Instagram so you get the details before anyone else.

If it sounds like Lisa and Marta have a lot on their plates right now, it’s because they do. Renovations are still happening, marketing is underway, they still work other jobs, and they both have kids and grandchildren. As Marta puts it, “It hasn’t been challenging in respect to owning the real estate or being the landlady; I don’t think there’s anything particularly difficult from a woman’s perspective, except for the traditional stuff. We’re moms and grandmothers and we’re juggling all of that. And again, Lisa’s very humble. She’s been a baker for years and had her own business, but as women, we tend to discount that stuff. We have our full time jobs, but if we’re doing something interesting and something we love on the side that makes money, we tend to discount that.” These words would resonate with women around the world, I am sure. It’s exasperating that society piles so many unrealistic and outdated expectations on women, almost like building an endless layer cake, but the icing on that cake is ladies are meeting those challenges. They’re exceeding expectations and succeeding, and I cannot wait to partake in that cake, starting with the chocolate one from King St. Café.

Special to the RTT by Tammy Joho

The cafe in downtown Harrow is located in a historic building, adding to the charm of this new business.

Thses beautiful cupcakes are just an example of Lisa’s talent, and will be available at the cafe very soon.

Lisa Rundle behind the counter of her new bakery and cafe.

Third place finish at provincial championship for North Star volleyball team

Continued from Page 11

Miller added: “Jerzie Rego had her role increase dramatically once the situation happened with Lillian’s injury and she ran with the opportunity. She made the best of her opportunity and got better in each match! Abby Beaudoin and Brianna Renaud were key contributors throughout the season and were valuable members in the success of the team.”

Essenpreis makes players better around her and will be counted on next season. Prieur will also be back next season, but the other eight players graduate.

“They pulled together and found a way,” Miller said of this year’s team. “They became very resilient and

mentally tough.”

The Wolves have advanced to OFSAA both years of North Star’s existence, but dating back to the program’s roots at General Amherst High School, they have appeared at OFSAA 13 times in the last 17 high school volleyball seasons. Those appearances have resulted in nine medals - three gold, two silver, two bronze, and two antique bronze. They have also won a consolation championship and have finished in the top nine in all 13 appearances. The program’s OFSAA match record over the years is 69-15.

Miller said this year the Wolves finished with a 28-3 record - going 6-1 at the OFSAA Championships.

for Erie Wildlife Rescue! One day only. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Indoors at 11168 Tecumseh Rd E, Windsor. Great selection of dishes, glassware, artwork, books, games, toys, knickknacks, jewelry and Easter décor, and treats! Support will contribute to the purchase of food, caging, medical supplies and services for local wildlife.

presentation, as we unveil the captivating world of Southern Flying Squirrels and the ways that Point Pelee has monitored their population since their reintroduction to the park in 1993-94. All are welcome. Free to public.

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

FUNDRAISER FOR PARK HOUSE ROOF; “St. Patrick’s Tales and Tunes from Ireland” being held at Downtown Espresso, 249 Dalhousie St., starting at 7 p.m. Proceeds to benefit the Park House Museum’s roof fund. Master storyteller Olwyn Coughlin regales tales of Irish folklore. Music by Phil Kasurak, Joe Perry and Jeff Wilkinson. Tickets $20 by donation, additional donations welcome.

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

NIGERIAN CULTURE PRESENTATION; Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) hosting “Feast with Friends” luncheon featuring presentation on Nigerian culture. Food, clothing, music, cultural similarities and differences will be discussed. Presentation will follow lunch. Runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., $9 per person. Call 519-736-5471 to reserve seat.

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE; Musical event running from 7-9 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 129 Simcoe St. (at Bathurst St.) in Amherstburg. Features musicians Lauren Baillargeon, Ken Arsenault, Foxy Doe, Brooke Wickham, and Johnny Mac & Friends.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

YARD/BAKE SALE; First yard and bake sale of 2024

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

MEMORIAL OF JESUS’ DEATH; Jehovah’s Witnesses will gather to commemorate the death of Jesus Christ. The one-hour talk will highlight the significance of Jesus’ death and what it means for all of mankind. Starts at 7:30 p.m. Special talk “The Resurrection—Victory Over Death!” will be March 17 at 10 a.m. This 30-minute, Bible-based talk will focus on the scriptural hope of a resurrection and what it means for the loved ones we have lost. Both events at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses (121 Lowes Side Road, Amherstburg). Admission free, open to the public. For info, visit jw.org.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3

VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT FAIR; Presented by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS) at the Amherstburg Community Hub. Runs 5-7 p.m. Nonprofit agencies looking to participate can contact Peggy Thompson at 519-736-5471 or p.thompson@ amherstburg-cs.com. Cost to participate is $10.

SATURDAY, APRIL 27

SPAGHETTI DINNER FUNDRAISER; Held at the Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St., to benefit the Fighting Island Boxing Club. Serving from 5-7 p.m. Pasta and salad dinner $15. Tickets available in advance at the boxing club or by calling 226-787-0046.

ONGOING

YARN DONATIONS WANTED; Resident looking for yarn donations as she knits beds for the WindsorEssex County Humane Society. Drop-off yarn at Royal Canadian Legion Br. 157 or call Pinky (Deborah Barnett)

“This team got every ounce out of what they had. It is one of the most overachieving teams I have coached. Very proud of this group for always finding a way to get things done,” he said.

at 519-995-4057 for pick up.

ROTARY CLUB OF AMHERSTBURG MEETINGS; Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the community room at ACS at 6 p.m. New members welcome. For info, e-mail rotaryclubofamherstburg@gmail.com or call Susanne at 519-990-2775.

MEALS ON WHEELS; Offered by Amherstburg Community Services (ACS). Meals on Wheels assists those who are unable to shop for food and cook meals. Also available to those recovering from illness or surgery. Meals provided to residents of Amherstburg, Harrow, McGregor and LaSalle residents. ACS caters to dietary needs. $7.50 per meal. Call 519-736-5471 for details.

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, and bridge and line dancing. We also have three special luncheons and a Christmas party. Visit www.goldenagecentre.ca to see how to join, participate, and learn how we support our community.

ESSEX COUNTY ORCHID SOCIETY MEETINGS;

The Essex County Orchid Society invites you to join them monthly, third Sunday of the month till May at St. Stephen’s Church Hall, 5280 Howard Ave; 1:30 p.m. Refreshments served. New members, visitors welcome. We are on Facebook!

COLUMBUS COMMUNITY HALL EVENTS; Columbus Community Hall, 190 Richmond St. Senior dance, 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. every second Tuesday of the month ($12 donation). Serving burgers and fries for purchase every Monday 12-2 p.m., Bingo Thursdays at 7 p.m., Fish Fry on Friday (includes chicken) 4:306:30 p.m., eat-in or take out. All welcome.

FREE COMMUNITY MEAL; Lighthouse Church, in conjunction with Feeding Windsor, invites the public to come Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. for a free dinner. All welcome. No registration required. Lighthouse Church is at 266 King St. (entrance off Gore St.).

MENTAL HEALTH & COUNSELLING SERVICES; The Youth Wellness Hub presents mental health and counselling services at The House Youth Centre. Runs Wednesdays from 2-6 p.m. Free for people between ages of 12-25. For details, call 519-800-8640.

MISSION HOURS; The Amherstburg Food and Fellowship Mission, 298 Victoria St. S., open 10 a.m.12:30 p.m., lunch between 12-1 p.m. Mission food bank open Mondays, Wednesdays Fridays from 10 a.m.11:45 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. For info, call 519-736-9140 or visit www.aburgmission.ca. All donations welcome.

ACS FOOD BANK; Offered at Amherstburg Community Hub (320 Richmond St.). Runs Monday-Friday 9 a.m.12 noon. Call 519-736-5471 for assistance.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED; Community service hours available for high school students. Outside jobs at Bryerswood Youth Camp. E-mail info@bryerswood.com.

BOTTLE DONATIONS; The AMA Sportsmen Association accepts donations of empty beer and wine bottles. Empties can be dropped off at the rear of the club, 468 Lowes Side Road in Amherstburg. For info, visit www.amasportsmen.com or call 519-736-5706.

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

The North Star High School senior girls volleyball team celebrates after winning the bronze medal last Wednesday at OFSAA.

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

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

FOR RENT

3-BEDROOM UPPER DUPLEX FOR RENT IN AMHERSTBURG; Very clean, well maintained, approximately 1200 sq. ft. Upper-Duplex in quiet neighbourhood on Queen Street. Open-concept living-room and diningarea with cathedral-ceiling. Carpet and Ceramic-Tile throughout. Open-concept kitchen with Island, Fridge, Stove and Dishwasher included. Private ensuite laundry-room, Washer and Dryer included. 3 Bedrooms with lots of closet-space. 4-Piece Bathroom. Central ForcedAir Conditioning and HighEfficiency Gas Furnace. No Smoking. Private access to your own deck, within shared rear-yard. $1,875 Monthly, plus Utilities. Minimum 1-year Lease. Apply with: References, Income-Verification & Credit Checks. First and Last Months Rent Required. By Appointment Only, call 519-736-4473 between 9:00am to 5 pm and leave a detailed message.

Deadline for Classified

Advertising in the River Town Times is Monday at 12 noon.

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.

PEST CONTROL AND WILD ANIMAL CONTROL DELINE’S SERVING AMHERSTBURG since 1988. Call 519-736-2448.

WANTED TO BUY

GOLD SILVER ALL COINS

Buying Friday Mar 15 K of C Hall 190 Richmond St Amherstburg 9am-4pm Top Prices Paid for ALL Gold + Silver JEWELRY, even some costume. Any Gold (even teeth) **OLD COINS; Canada, USA, World War Medals, Windup Watches, Mintsets,Old paper money Free Estimates No Obligation**Locally Owned** 57 Years of “SATISFIED CUSTOMERS

Not Expensive Colored Brochures”House calls also available for larger amounts Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 519818-1805

HELP WANTED Part-time position available with commercial cleaning company in Amherstburg. 15+ hours per week, evening hours, typically starts at 5 p.m. E-mail pattie@greenteamclean.ca if interested.

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

I would like to thank everyone who donated funds for the humanitarian trip I recently completed in Ghana, West Africa. Countless lived have been impacted due to your generosity.

- Bert McLellan

She’s turning “96” and still getting her “kicks”

She’s turning “96” and still getting her “kicks”

Happy Birthday Sweet Angeline Fitzpatrick on March 13, 2024

Happy Birthday Sweet Angeline Fitzpatrick on March 13, 2024

Bingo Lady, Card Shark, and STILL DRIVING!!

YOU GO GRANDMA!!

With lots of love from all your family and friends!! YYYxoxo

North Star swimmers do well at OFSAA

Special to the RTT

The North Star High School swim team travelled to the University of Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre in Scarborough for OFSAA last week.

The relay team competed among 62 final qualifying teams representing all of Ontario in the girls 200 meter freestyle junior relay at the meet, held March 4-5. Entering into OFSAA after qualifying in SWOSSAA, they were seeded at 58. The girls trained hard and it showed as they swam with determination, placing first in their heat and ending their first OFSAA experience seeded at 30 by shaving an incredible nine seconds off their entry time.

The team consists of four members and all were in the girls 200 metre freestyle relay. The team members are Grade 10 students Hannah Wilcox, Brooke MacDonald, Eden Pare and Maiyah Hodges.

In addition, Hannah Wilcox also completed in the individual 50 meter freestyle against 78 girls representing high schools from across Ontario. Hannah placed fourth in her heat and achieved her personal best time by dropping four milliseconds from her qualifying entry time from SWOSSAA.

Entering into OFSAA, Hannah was seeded at 34 and ended the competition at 32 in Ontario.

The girls are thrilled with their achievements and said although the swim season is now over they are planning to continue with training together over the summer to work towards improving their personal best times and representing North Star High School

again in OFSAA next year.

Hodges said it was a good experience though admitted it was intimidating with a lot of people there.

“It was a lot of people but it was a lot of fun,” she said.

Hodges added they are happy they represented their school well especially as a small team. Their goal is to get back and improve on their times.

MacDonald said the OFSAA experience went well “and there were different swimmers from everywhere.” She pointed out they improved on their times from previous swims while at OFSAA.

MacDonald was nervous but proud to be there and also said the goal is to make it back to OFSAA.

Eden Pare, Brooke MacDonald, Hannah Wilcox and Maiyah Hodges did will in Toronto last week at the OFSAA swim meet.

SUBMITTED PHOTO

CALLING ALL BUSINESSES!

BIZ

DISCOVERY

You could WIN! talktheburg.ca /biz

Wed 20

2024 Dog Tags 2024 Dog Tags available online available online

LEARN MORE LEARN MORE about about New New Rens Pets Promo Rens Pets Promo amherstburg.ca/ amherstburg.ca/ doglicensing doglicensing Late fee applicable after April 30

Amherstburg Enviromental Advisory Committee Meeting

5PM-Town Hall

Program Registration

Recycle

Good FridayMunicipal Offices & The Libro Centre

Test your Smoke Alarm!

ast Day for skating programs!