FORT FRANCES—Despite a frustrating day travelling home from Toronto thanks to Sunday’s late-winter storm, Fort Frances resident Jack Hedman still was thrilled by the news he brought with him.

FORT FRANCES—The Fort Frances Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Rainy River Future Development Corp. and Town of Fort Frances, is looking for input as to how the town can better retain businesses and encourage economic growth with a new survey that was launched here Monday.

FORT FRANCES—While spring only sprung today (at least officially), the local Chamber of Commerce already has flowers on the brain as it gears up for its annual beautification program, “Project Petunia.”

EMO—Many expecting young couples welcome the opportunity to learn about the pregnancy and upcoming delivery by enrolling in pre-natal classes.

As part of a national fundraising campaign, the Voyageur Lions and the Fort High Leo Club are planning a “Purina Walk for Dog Guides” here for a second year.

FORT FRANCES—A decision by the local public school board to contract out busing services in Atikokan has left students and parents concerned it will negatively affect their school programs, though the board denies this is the case.

No money for forestry, FedNor, or farmers. That’s the message Thunder Bay-Rainy River MP Ken Boshcoff is delivering after the Harper government unveiled its second budget Monday afternoon in the House of Commons.

An array of activities are being planned for this year’s “Spring Fever Days” in Emo, which will run April 19-21.

EMO—It’s Atikokan, not Emo or Fort Frances, that will host the banquet where regional volunteers will be recognized by the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards.

OSHAWA—The Muskie boys’ hockey team earned a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Thomas A. Stewart Griffins (Peterborough) this morning in their opening game at the all-Ontario ‘AAA’ championship in Oshawa.

The 2006-07 Muskie boys’ hockey team has built an impressive résumé.

David Kaun’s high school curling career has come full circle. After three years of frustration, Kaun is back competing at the all-Ontario championships this week for the first time since his freshman year.