| The
Prescott Journal is published weekly by St. Lawrence Printing Co. Ltd., 231 King Street West, Prescott, Ontario, K0E 1T0, (613) 925-4265 - fax (613) 925-3472, e-mail journal@stlawrenceprinting.on.ca |
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
PRESCOTT - Local communities have a lot to do with the ultimate success of athletes, according to the former vice-president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Dick Pound emphasized the value of athletics and ethics during a speech he delivered Monday night at the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce annual awards banquet.
Pound, a former Olympian and long-time IOC member, referred to his own background as a young athlete in Ocean Falls, a small pulp and paper company town in British Columbia. The town had an indoor pool and the paper company hired excellent coaches. A considerable community spirit was created, according to Pound; swimmers in Ocean Falls felt they could take on the best swimmers the world could offer. Residents of the town got involved and held fundraisers to enable swimmers to travel from the isolated community to meets in Vancouver and other centres to the south.
Pound, who competed in the Olympics, noted sport promotes good health, self-discipline and self-respect. Athletes learn to accept success or failure and can empathize or bond with other athletes, things that can be used in other facets of life.
Pound said communities have allowed themselves to fall behind when it comes to athletics, which he described as "...a pyramid that must be built up from the bottom." There are huge gaps in sports leadership and organization at the grassroots level, according to Pound.
"Our school systems have completely dropped the ball," he remarked. Pound suggested communities like Prescott should pick a sport and try to excel at it. "The world is your oyster," he said. "It is a matter of community will."
Pound went on to note youngsters who take part in sports are far less likely to end up as delinquents. Athletics can assist youth as they cope with a very difficult time in their lives, he said. Sports can provide the fundamental values young people are desperately seeking, according to Pound.
As chair of the Olympic movement's anti-doping agency, Pound said those who violate drug policies to get a jump on the competition destroy the integrity of athletics. In noting athletes must be part of the solution, Pound said parents and the public can be of some help by showing no support for athletes who try to beat the system and those who assist the cheaters.
"There is no room for admiration of people who cheat," he said.
Pound maintains those Olympic athletes who won medals but tested positive for banned substances should lose their medals. He said he is working on his colleagues on that issue.
Despite the scandals that have shadowed the Olympics in recent years, Pound noted the games are a great success story. The public separates the problems from the athletes and the competition, he indicated. Proof of that is Canada's success at the recent Salt Lake City Winter Olympics and the pride shown by Canadians.
Pound said both the men's and women's ice hockey teams deserved to win gold medals. "I kind of thought we played six Americans and a referee," he said in reference to the women's final. Pound also presented the gold medals to members of the Canadian team.
"I got to kiss 22 sweaty women," he noted to an appreciative crowd of 200 at the banquet.
PRESCOTT - The company that reports the news made some news of its own Monday night.
St. Lawrence Printing (SLP), publisher of The Prescott Journal, received the Corporate Service Award for business achievement at the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce annual awards banquet.
St. Lawrence Printing Company Limited was incorporated in 1949; ownership of The Journal was transferred from W.E. Crateau to the company at that time.
The Morris family has been involved with the business since the 1940s; family members have owned 100 per cent of the business since 1964.
St. Lawrence Printing and its associated companies operate a sheetfed printing business, a commercial web printing business, The Leeds and Grenville Business News, The Winchester Press, The Manotick Messenger, The Barrhaven Independent, The Packet (serving Osgoode-Rideau) and, with a partner, The Tupper Lake Free Press and The Gouverneur Tribune-Press. The Canadian operations employ approximately 45 full-time and 20 part-time staff.
The Morris family has been involved in community newspapers in Eastern Ontario for 75 years. Jack Morris, John Morris and Robin Morris have all served as president of the Ontario Community Newspaper Association, something no other family has accomplished in the history of OCNA.
John Morris has been publisher or editor of The Journal for almost 40 years, longer than anyone else in the community. Mr. Morris accepted the award Monday night on behalf of the company.
The first edition of The Journal was published 112 years ago this week. In addition to covering local news and events, the newspaper strives to provide a voice for the local community and a forum for constructive discussion of community issues not available elsewhere.
Publicity given to local organizations and events adds up to an investment of thousands of dollars The Journal willingly makes in the community each year.
The Journal also provides placements for high school and college co-op students interested in pursuing a career in journalism.
The Journal has produced four chamber of commerce community service award winners Wilfrid Crateau, Jack Morris, Mervin Dickey and John Morris. A fifth has been added; this year's winner, Norm Fortier, was a long-time employee of the company. No other business in Prescott has produced anywhere near the number of community-minded citizens.
Two members of the Morris family have written comprehensive histories of Prescott Jack in 1967, and John in 2001. Both books were printed and published by St. Lawrence Printing so the rich heritage of the area would be preserved for future generations.
The Journal has been based in the same building on King Street since 1890. The building had been home to the telegraph/telegram office and Prescott's first telephone exchange. The Journal carries on a newspaper tradition that has been in existence since 1816 with the publishing of the town's first newspaper, the Grenville Gazette.
Robert Caldwell
PRESCOTT - Kaitlynn Dodge and Mackenzie Eaton have crossed the generation gap and set a good example for their peers.
The two friends are co-recipients of the 2001 Connie Dickey Youth of the Year Award. Dodge and Eaton were honoured Monday night at the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce annual awards banquet.
In presenting the award, Robert Caldwell noted the recipients were thinking of others at a time when many teenagers had other things on their mind.
The Prescott residents are Grade 10 students at St. Mary High School in Brockville. The concept of hosting a community dinner was conceived on a bus ride home from school one afternoon in early October. The school project evolved into "Soup for the Soul: A Christmas Cuisine" and involved 50 student volunteers and adults who pitched in prior to and during the Dec. 23 dinner.
"When you lead by example, others will follow," Caldwell said.
Dodge and Eaton organized the entire event everything from contacting businesses and service clubs for donations to seeking help to prepare and serve the food. Their efforts received a great deal of support from the community, and more than 180 meals were served at St. Mark's Parish Centre or delivered to those who were unable to get to the hall that evening because of freezing rain.
Dodge and Eaton "...maintained a sense of humour and passion for this project when many adults said it couldn't be done," the nomination stated. The girls showed they care about their community by recognizing a need to show support to the needy and lonely at Christmas time and doing something about it.
They have already begun planning the 2002 edition of the holiday season community dinner.
In accepting the award, Dodge said what means most is everyone came together and showed their support for others in the community. Eaton added, "We're very proud of Prescott right now."
In addition to organizing the dinner, the two friends have volunteered in other ways. Both have collected door receipts Saturday nights at South Grenville junior "B" Ranger home games in Cardinal. Dodge has worked with Prescott Loyalist Days and the Kidney Foundation. Eaton does peer tutoring to help students at the high school achieve higher marks.
The annual youth award is presented in memory of the late Connie Dickey. Caldwell noted she was a young woman who made a difference and set an example for other young people in the Prescott area. Dodge and Eaton are carrying on that tradition, Caldwell added.
PRESCOTT Norman Fortier said he was not looking for recognition.
The man who has volunteered his time in a variety of ways for more than 50 years received the Community Service Award for 2001 at the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce awards banquet Monday night at St. Mark's Parish Centre.
Fortier has been involved in minor sports, youth organizations and a successful series of summer concerts at the amphitheatre on Prescott's waterfront.
In addition to serving more than 30 years in minor hockey as a coach and eventually president of the association, Fortier is credited with spearheading the drive to build the room above the canteen at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.
Fortier was also a leader with the local Scouting movement.
In recent years, Fortier has played a lead role in organizing Sunday night concerts at the amphitheatre in July and August. He also is a driver for the meals on wheels program.
Fortier told The Journal he was surprised to receive the award. "I've really enjoyed what I've done," he said of his volunteer efforts.
In noting he feels honoured to have been selected, Fortier told the audience he accepts the award on behalf of all the volunteers in Prescott.
Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn said volunteers are the foundation of a community. Fortier is a good example of someone who continues to contribute even in his later years, according to the mayor.
PRESCOTT - Fort Wellington National Historic Site is offering a March Break program next week for children between the ages of eight and 13.
Four afternoon sessions are planned in the historic setting of the fort's original blockhouse. On Monday, March 11, youngsters can enlist in the "New Recruits" program to become a soldier in the Royal Canadian Rifle Regiment.
"Fort Pleasures and Pastimes" is the theme of the Tuesday session which will be filled with traditional crafts and games of a bygone era.
"Afternoon Archeologists" will be offered Wednesday and Thursday to close out the week. Children will be able to dig up the dirt on the fort's past when they explore history through hands-on activities with original artifacts.
The fort can accommodate 25 participants per session. Snacks will be provided. A small fee will be charged at each session.
For more information or to register for the March Break program, contact Elizabeth LeBlanc at 925-4746, extension 104.
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE - This year's crocus campaign was a great success, according to the Kingston district office of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB).
The office reports 8,500 pots of crocuses were sold during the fourth annual campaign, netting more than $15,000 for CNIB services in the region.
The CNIB offers assistance to those whose level of vision causes difficulties in their day-to-day lives.
"We can help you get the most out of your remaining vision and provide you with the tools and aids to cope with the challenges of living with vision loss," stated CNIB Crocus Campaign Chair Joyce Stevenson.
For more information on CNIB services, call (613) 542-4975.
SOUTH GRENVILLE - Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) offers businesses and individuals personal and general tax information from a variety of sources.
For business tax information, call 1-800-959-5525 weekdays from 8:15 am to 8 pm. CCRA suggests calling before 10 am or after 2 pm for faster service.
For general tax enquiries, call 1-800-959-8281 weekdays from 8:15 am to 10 pm and on weekends from 9 am to 1 pm.
The automated Tax Information Phone Service provides a limited amount of general information 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Call 1-800-267-6999 or go on-line and visit www.ccra.gc.ca/tips.
By Jon Kuiperij - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - An announced crowd of 550 watched area firefighters down the local police 13-9 in a Battle of the Badges hockey game last Wednesday in Prescott.
The game featured the involvement of two former National Hockey Leaguers; noted pugilist Dave "Tiger" Williams played for both teams while Eddie "The Entertainer" Shack refereed the contest. Proceeds from the game went towards Prevention Awareness for Life and The Firefighter/Police Fund in New York.
Many children did not recognize Shack when they entered the Leo Boivin Community Centre and saw him signing autographs, but the older crowd seemed to appreciate the presence of the 65-year-old Sudbury native.
Shack lived up to his nickname during the game as he carried around a microphone to talk to the crowd and heckle the players.
Williams proved he could also be a threat with the gloves on, scoring several goals for both squads - one of which inspired his patented riding-the-stick celebration. He began the game with the Prescott firefighters, which inconvenienced the plans of firefighter Brent Norton.
"I was planning on dropping the gloves with you first thing," Norton said to Williams in the dressing room before the game.
Williams wryly returned, "We can still arrange that."
Tim Markus, the goaltender for the firefighters' squad, kept his team in the game early as the Prescott Police, OPP Grenville County detachment and Royal Canadian Mounted Police team carried the play.
Two Williams goals helped the firefighters to a 4-2 lead after the first period; Williams switched teams with three minutes left in the second period and the firefighters ahead 8-5.
Although Shack called several "questionable" penalty shots against the firefighters in an effort to tie the game and force a shoot-out, the police were not able to get any closer than three goals the rest of the game.
"I thought it was a great game," said Markus, actually a member of the Coast Guard.
The New Wexford resident stared down Williams several times in the latter half of the contest, making a couple nice glove saves.
"I just wanted to force him to shoot," Markus said. "It was great, a once-in-a-lifetime chance."
The game was the first of "nine or ten" Battle of the Badges games in Eastern Ontario over the next month, Williams said before the game.
"I'll probably be doing this for a couple more years," said the 48-year-old, who was born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, and now resides in Vancouver. "It's a good deal - you see parts of the country you don't usually see, and it's a win-win situation for everyone."
Williams splits time on the tour with former NHL sniper Marcel Dionne and also has several business interests out west.
Shack said he will end up refereeing 100 Battle of the Badges games this year.
"It's a lot of fun, with the people and the charities," he said. "There's no cross-checking, no high-sticking, no shoving - just good hockey, and that's what it's all about."
PRESCOTT - The Prescott Police Service reminds the public to keep their vehicles locked after a string of thefts took place last week.
On Feb. 26, police investigated four thefts from vehicles parked on Russell and Park streets in the east end of town. A Nokia cellular phone valued at $200 and a green fire department emergency light were taken.
Three days later, town police investigated thefts from vehicles parked on George, Park and Prince streets. An AM/FM CD player valued at $200, plus cassette tapes, tools, cigarettes and change were among the items taken from those vehicles.
Police advise vehicle owners to remove items of value or place them in the trunk.
Town police investigated 51 general incidents and one motor vehicle accident between Feb. 24 and March 3.
A 15-year-old male was charged with possession of a weapon and uttering threats after police investigated an assault complaint Feb. 27. The incident occurred on King Street and involved a 12-year-old male. The 15-year-old had a knife, according to police. The suspect will appear in the youth division of the Ontario Court of Justice.
Charges are pending as police continue to investigate the reported assault of a 15-year-old youth at South Grenville District High School. The investigation began Feb. 26 and is continuing; no additional details are available.
During a patrol March 1, police observed a group of youngsters acting in a suspicious manner at the high school. A town officer approached the scene and detected an odour of marijuana. A 15-year-old male was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana; he is to appear in the youth division of the Ontario Court of Justice.
Police are investigating two cases of vandalism involving spray paint that occurred earlier this week. A vehicle at a Wood St. E. residence was spray-painted, and a nearby residence was also spray-painted. The extent of damage to the vehicle and residence was unknown at press time.
Anyone who has information on these or other offences in town is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
SOUTH GRENVILLE - The third annual Easter Seal Paper Egg Campaign is under way.
Shoppers can purchase vibrant paper eggs at local retailers, sign them and have them displayed in store windows. Proceeds from the colourful campaign will support children and young adults with physical disabilities.
Easter Seal Society President and CEO Charlotte Gibson stated in a news release advances in equipment and technology change and enhance the lives of many children. "But the costs from $10,000 to $40,000 a year are enormous and often out of reach," Gibson went on to state. "You would be amazed by how far every 'toonie' goes toward supporting those families."
All money raised will be used at the local level. The campaign continues through the month of March.
For more information or to join retailers in the paper egg campaign, call Sandra Johnson at 1-888-667-0043, extension 226.
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
SOUTH GRENVILLE - A majority of respondents to a recent survey supports bylaws to ban smoking in public places, according to the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.
The survey, conducted by the Carleton University Survey Centre, polled 1,485 residents of the tri-county area. Health unit officials will be presenting the survey's findings to municipal councils in the region, including Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.
Dr. Charles Gardner, medical officer of health, told The Journal a definite majority of respondents support a ban on smoking in indoor public places.
"For us, it's fundamentally a health care issue," he said.
The survey indicated a range of support for smoke-free public areas. At the high end of the scale, 81.2 per cent of respondents favour a smoking ban in sports and recreation facilities. However, support for a ban on smoking in bars drops to 49.9 per cent.
A majority of survey respondents would be more likely or as likely to frequent public places if a no-smoking bylaw were in place. Some bar and restaurant owners in communities in which the smoking debate has taken place have been adamant their businesses would be hit hard by a smoking ban.
"Businesses will focus on their own economic well-being," Dr. Gardner said.
Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn said his personal preference would be in line with what health officials are proposing. But Lawn, a member of the board of health, added as mayor he must look at the issue from other perspectives including those of businesses and their clientele.
"At this stage, I'd like to get the pulse of our community," the mayor said in an interview. As of the beginning of this week, Prescott council had yet to discuss any proposal to enact a smoking ban.
"It's not an easy thing to come to grips with," Lawn said.
Gardner noted many respondents who support smoke-free bylaws cite health reasons as the main factor. Most people seem to be aware of the serious health effects smoking and second-hand smoke can cause, according to health officials.
Survey respondents who do not support a ban tend to note the rights of smokers as being the reason, Gardner indicated.
"For us, we feel the evidence on the negative impact on health is compelling," he said.
Issues relating to enforcement of a smoking ban as well as the time process involved in implementing the ban are critical points, Gardner added. He added answers to those questions could come out of the consultation process.
The process that could result in smoking being banned in public places may take about a year to complete, although Gardner said he hopes it would be sooner if possible.
Lawn has doubts as to whether Prescott and other small municipalities could enforce such a bylaw on their own. He expects a counties-wide system would be needed.
A majority of survey respondents favours implementing restrictions all at one time. The health unit also reports smoking status, education and gender are significant factors in the findings.
About one in four adult Canadians are smokers, according to national statistics.
Dr. Charles Gardner
SOUTH GRENVILLE - The Catholic Archdiocese of Kingston is hosting a visit this week by the World Youth Day cross.
The cross is scheduled to be at St. Michael High School in Kemptville early this afternoon. By mid-afternoon, a procession is expected to take the cross to Holy Cross Church on Clothier Street West for praise and worship, mass and a silent vigil which will end late tonight.
The four-metre-high cross, which was entrusted to the youth of the world at the first World Youth Day in 1984, has been travelling throughout Canada since last April.
The cross is scheduled to be taken through South Grenville in May on its way to Toronto and World Youth Day celebrations to be held July 23-28. The event brings together people between the ages of 16 and 30 at the invitation of Pope John Paul II. Catholic parishes in South Grenville have been encouraging members in that age range to register for the week-long event.
More than 2,000 youth day registrants from around the world have been invited to stay with billets in the Kingston archdiocese the week before the main celebrations in Toronto.
For background information and international updates, visit www.wyd2002.org or contact Mary Carr at the archdiocese at (613) 548-4461, or your local parish.
NORTH AUGUSTA - A 40-year-old Augusta Township man was killed Saturday afternoon when the pick-up truck he was working under fell from the jack that was supporting it.
Grenville County OPP officers, ambulance and the Augusta Fire Department responded to the call at about 1:30 pm. Brent Healey was crushed to death by the truck at a residence on Land O'Nod Road, an OPP press release states.
OPP are treating the occurrence as an accident.
AUGUSTA - An elderly couple died in hospital almost two weeks after a motor vehicle accident Feb. 16. Donald Robichaud, 81, of Dixon Road, was driving a vehicle Feb. 16 at about 7:30 am, when he apparently suffered a fainting spell. The vehicle left the road and then struck a tree, a press release states. His wife Maude was a passenger in the vehicle.
The couple was injured in the collision, and the driver had to be extricated. The OPP reports he was conscious and verbal at the scene and his injuries did not appear to be life threatening.
The Robichauds were transferred to Brockville General Hospital by ambulance. Police were notified Feb. 28 both had succumbed to their injuries suffered in the accident. Age was also a factor, the release states.
AUGUSTA - A County Road 21 home owned by Roy Conklin was destroyed by flames Sunday at about 6 pm. OPP was called to assist with diverting traffic for about three hours. It is believed the fire started in the kitchen area of the house, a press release states. Due to high winds, firefighters had difficulty controlling the flames and smoke.
The fire is not suspicious in nature, the OPP reports.
AUGUSTA - Items with a value of approximately $4,500 were taken in a daylight break and enter Feb. 27 at a home on the Second Concession of Augusta township. Items missing include a personal computer, three satellite receivers and a camera. There was no evidence at the scene, and no suspect information has been obtained, the OPP reports. Const. Barr is investigating.
PRESCOTT - Members of the Grenville County OPP investigated 73 occurrences between Feb. 25 and March 3. Of these, 23 incidents were investigated in Augusta Township and 50 in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. Incidents included 20 vehicle-related calls; five motor vehicle collisions (none with injuries); 35 calls for police assistance, three break and enters and a house fire.
Senior Const. Ozon charged 128 people with speeding during February. Two of the charges were people driving in excess of 50 Km/h over the speed limit. Two seat belt charges were laid, as well as 10 Highway Traffic Act charges.
Anyone with information on these or other occurrences is asked to call Grenville County OPP at 925-4221, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
By Jon Kuiperij - Journal Staff Writer
SOUTH GRENVILLE - In an effort to raise public awareness and money, the Volunteer Bureau of Leeds and Grenville will hold a Mayors' Community Walk next month in Brockville.
All mayors and reeves from across the United Counties have committed to participate in the April 27 event, as have Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan and Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman.
"The walk is not to raise money for our general operating funds," says Frank Bolger, chairman of the bureau's fundraising committee.
"It is for our public relations and to promote volunteerism, to attract additional volunteers, which is very badly needed."
Bolger, a resident of Maitland, says the mayors' walk will be an annual event and has received "excellent financial backing from generous organizations and groups."
Local businesses, groups and individuals are encouraged to participate as well.
All proceeds from pledges received by walkers will be divided equally between the Volunteer Bureau and charities of the walkers' choice.
According to Bolger, the bureau has existed for 25 years and oversees approximately 10,000 volunteers, attracting, training and placing them with groups that need assistance, such as hospitals and nursing homes.
"It's important to the well-being of Leeds and Grenville to have a good volunteer base," Bolger says.
"We have not been successful enough; we have attracted volunteers but we need more. Over the next few months you will see a greater (public relations) push from us, and we need funding for the increased (public relations.)"
The bureau offers a drivers-in-action program, which involves volunteers driving seniors, the disabled and others who need assistance to doctors' appointments and for treatment.
It also has an income tax assistance program in which volunteers are trained by the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency to prepare income tax returns for seniors, single parents, low-income families, unemployed, disabled persons and shut-ins throughout Leeds-Grenville.
These services and other programs are provided at no charge as a community service by volunteers who have been interviewed and referred to all non-profit organizations requesting help.
For more information on the Volunteer Bureau of Leeds and Grenville or the Mayors' Community Walk, contact the bureau at (613) 342-7040.
PRESCOTT - Simplified is both the name and philosophy of a Prescott company that is putting its energy to good use.
Simplified AC Services the "AC" stands for auxiliary cabinets makes products used in large facilities which require uninterrupted supplies of electricity.
The company is located on Susan Street in the facility that also houses Bremm Metal Products.
Simplified President Gerry Walker pointed out the company's core working group was formed as part of Rescorp International's power division and has been together for more than three years in the same location. The power division became Simplified when it was acquired last September.
Simplified assembles cabinet units which may house transformers, batteries, breakers and other equipment to ensure a steady supply of electricity. Assembly takes place at the company's 4,900-square-foot facility.
As the name suggests, Simplified produces equipment which eliminates some of the complexities associated with previous technology. In general, the cabinets are 24"X70" to 54"X78" and are 30 inches deep. Although multiple cabinet units may be required at a work site, Simplified ensures those units have common features and are easy for operators of UPS systems to fit together and understand.
The completed cabinet units are supplied to distributors in the pan-American market. Vice-President of Corporate Affairs Jesse Long said there is still a large market to untap, and Simplified offers a high-quality product that other manufacturers do not offer.
With a workforce of five, Simplified has been making great strides this year and projects sales in the range of $3 million.
Walker said the concept of "protecting hydro supplies" is recession-proof. Large operations cannot afford to be affected by any disruptions to their electrical grid; a reliable source of energy is vital to their operations, Walker noted. The events of Sept. 11 emphasized the need for effective back-up systems, he added.
By offering a compact and uniform line of cabinetry that is easier to put together, Simplified enables clients to save on installation costs.
The company takes pride in the fact in more than 260,000 hours of service during the past three-and-a-half years, no failures involving their products have been reported. Walker said it is also an indication of the company's success in making a complex product easier to deal with from the user's perspective.
Walker noted the company has received the full support of Grenville Community Development Centre, a federally-funded corporation that encourages economic development and investment through loans and other business support services. TD Canada Trust has also provided support, he added.
In terms of expansion, Walker indicated Simplified may add the manufacturing of the basic cabinet frames to its operations.
By Laura Parrott
South Grenville is buzzing as the countdown to March Break is nearly over. Many fun activities have been taking place to make the time before the holiday a little more bearable. One of these is the student talent show which will be taking place at the school tonight!
The show will run from 7 to 8:30 pm and contains a variety of entertainment suitable for all ages. There are bands, singers, dancers and much more. There is a minimal admission fee which is to be paid at the door. The money raised will go back into school clubs.
Varsity rugby is here! South Grenville will have both girls and boys rugby this spring. Both coaches and players have been working hard to get into shape for the fast-approaching season, but there is still one vital part of the team missing; equipment. The rugby program at SGDHS is starting with a $0 budget, and very little else except dedication. The most important piece of gear that the team is looking for right now is soccer and football cleats. Both women's and men's cleats of all sizes are needed. If you have any that you would like to donate they can be dropped off in the main office of the school in care of Coach Southin.
The rugby team is also looking for another vitally important donation from the community: the valuable time of people with personal rugby experience. If you have played on a rugby team before or have coached rugby your help would be greatly appreciated. Anybody who would like to volunteer is asked to contact Coach Southin at 925-2855 ext. 3413.
South Greville's senior and junior football teams are set to run this upcoming fall. To help raise desperately-needed funds for the teams they will be holding a tree sale. Blue spruce trees which are guaranteed for one year (with free replacements) will be sold around the community. If you would like to purchase a tree you can contact Coach Southin. All orders must be placed before April 20.
Much like the rugby teams, the football teams are also in desperate need of equipment. Any individuals or local service clubs that would like to donate to the football program are asked to contact Coach Southin.
All help is greatly appreciated to keep our rugby and football teams alive!
By Marnie Lippiatt
Friday's pot luck was delicious. Joyce Brown, our speaker, appraised several antiques and collector items. Many pieces had a personal story but could also be dated by their own markings. Thanks to everyone who shared their treasures and "pots."
Just a reminder to the board its next meeting will be on Thursday, March 7 at 10 am.
The health unit has declared March nutrition month. We will be having an information series. Each Wednesday morning in March at 10 am we will cover a different topic. A light lunch will follow. It will include something that we have made during the session. We will cover the ABCs of healthy eating. Next week's topic will be "Up the Antioxidants." Please call 925-5300 for more information.
Card game winners last week: Monday bridge 1st, Charles Steiner; 2nd, Eleanor Hatch; door prize, Mary Reynolds. Tuesday night euchre 1st, Myrtle Shahan; 2nd, Hilda Hutton; 3rd, Pete Lowry and Jeannine Marion; door prize, Hugh Evely. Thursday cribbage high hand, Eleanor Gilligan; high score, Hugh Evely; 2nd, Myrtle Shahan and Pete Lowry; 3rd, Jeannine Marion.
PRESCOTT - Local resident Gerry Carey has been honoured with a provincial award for his long-time and outstanding contribution to agriculture.
Carey was recognized with the 2001 Eastern Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association Award of Merit at the Grenville Federation of Agriculture annual banquet in Roebuck Feb. 22. The award was presented by the Grenville Soil and Crop Improvement Association.
"It's always nice to be recognized by your peers, especially when you didn't expect it," Carey said of the recognition.
The award is given annually to those who have shown a genuine concern for and who have made an outstanding contribution to the general welfare of agriculture within their community as selected by the county soil and crop improvement associations.
While Carey is no longer an active farmer (he keeps a 10-acre "indulgence property" near Roebuck), he maintains involvement in the organizational development of agriculture in the area, he noted.
He continues as a member and director for the Grenville Federation of Agriculture, and serves as a director of the Co-operators Insurance Company. Carey is also chairman of the Rideau-St. Lawrence Community Credit Union, and serves on the editorial advisory board of the Farmer's Forum newspaper, based in Kemptville.
As a young farmer in Perth County and a 1948 graduate of the Ontario Agricultural College, Carey produced farm-separated cream, feeding hogs and veal calves.
Among his first successes was the organization of farmers to work together to achieve more than they could individually. Motivated by his frustration over the lending policies of banks, he encouraged 10 other farmers in 1954 to each contribute $2 to start a credit union in Mitchell, Ont. The agency helped many farmers obtain operating loans and other credit when banks were reluctant to extend credit for farm enterprises, Carey explained.
"Credit unions help to keep the trade honest," Carey said. "If the only place you could get money was from a bank, then you're done. They (banks) write their own ticket."
He was elected a director of the Ontario Cream Producers Marketing Board, and became an OFA field service representative and manager for eastern and northern Ontario from 1968 until his retirement in 1989.
Carey has been an active member of the Prescott Kiwanis Club for 18 years, and is involved in the Seaway Men's Christian Fellowship group. At St. Paul's United Church in Prescott he is a member of the church council and chairman of the ministry and personnel committee. He is also a volunteer driver for the Victorian Order of Nurses.
Carey is a strong believer in the co-operative philosophy of people working together and helping each other. "When times get tough, that's when co-ops thrive," he said. "It's self help - neighbours helping neighbours."
Community volunteerism is also high on Carey's list of worthy projects. "I like doing it and I'm able," he said. "It's nice to give something back. As long as a person's able, why would you sit back and watch the tube? "
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE - "The ABCs of healthy eating" is the theme of this year's national nutrition month.
During March, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit and Dietitians of Canada are hoping to reinforce the importance of healthy eating. The public is constantly exposed to new and conflicting messages in the media when it comes to food and nutrition, according to a health unit news release.
Certain terms such as "antioxidant" and "free radical" become buzz words, but many people do not fully understand them or how they are important to health. Other items such as calcium, vitamin D and folic acid are among the nutrients that are often mentioned as playing a role in preventing certain diseases.
"It is important that we understand the role these nutrients play in our overall health, and how to get adequate amounts of nutrients by choosing a variety of healthy foods," the release states.
The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit has registered dieticians who provide current and reliable information on nutrition and healthy eating. The national nutrition campaign promotes registered dietitians as a trusted source of credible information.
For more information on healthy eating or related community events, call the health unit at 345-5685 or 1-800-660-5853 and ask to speak to a dietician. The address of the health unit's Web site is www.healthunit.org.
The Web site for Dietitians of Canada is www.dietitians.ca.
SOUTH GRENVILLE - Tips on healthy eating will be on the menu at food demonstrations being held by the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit.
Valu-mart in Prescott will be the site of a free demonstration this Sunday, March 10 from noon to 2:30 pm. A similar presentation was scheduled for yesterday afternoon at Van Camp Freshmart in Cardinal.
For more information about the demonstrations and healthy eating choices, call the Health Action Line at 345-5685 or 1-800-660-5853 or visit the health unit's Web site at www.healthunit.org.
PRESCOTT - Members of the Seaway Men's Ecumenical Group will take to the ice at the Prescott Curling Club this Saturday morning. The group will meet for breakfast at 8 am at NanC's Place and then proceed to the club on Henry Street.
Submitted by Krista Somerville
The first meeting of Healthy Eating Around The Clock was held on Feb. 28 at the Roebuck Community Hall. The meeting began at 7:15 pm. Our club leaders are Debbie Connell, Darlene Dillabough and Pamela Somerville. They handed out the agenda for the night and the planned dates for the other meetings.
It sure looks like a fun and exciting club, because it looked like we were going to do some cooking as well as some eating. Each member introduced themselves along with mentioning a food that began with the same letter as their name. Election of officers was the next item on the agenda. The results are as follows: President - Stephanie Connell; Vice-President - Jeffrey Connell; Secretary- Emily Robinson; Treasurer - Dustin Brown; Press Reporter - Krista Somerville. Krista is also a youth leader in this club. She had prepared a game to get everyone acquainted. We played it and it sure was fun to see how everyone interpreted the game differently.
We then discussed our club name, and then we discussed it some more. We decided to think about it as the night went on. The leaders then handed out the forms that we need to fill out and bring back to the next meeting. Along with those pages we were handed out our manuals, duotangs and other pertinent information. Book requirements were discussed and the leaders assured us there was going to be a prize for the best ME page. A ME page is a page with a picture of yourself and lots of information about yourself. We finally agreed upon a name for our club. It will be "Pancake Pals 2."
Krista then had another warm-up game for us. After we completed this we discussed our achievement program which is going to be a catered banquet. The next meeting will be a double meeting at the Roebuck Hall on March 13 with lots of cooking. The menu for cooking and eating on that day was discussed and agreed upon.
The leaders are hoping to have a trip to Brockville to see some food chain kitchens and tour a grocery store. A light snack was enjoyed by all and the meeting was adjourned.
CENTRAL PUBLIC SCHOOL - Report cards for the second term go home today.
The senior girls' basketball team played in the regionals Monday while the senior boys played in Iroquois.
Hot lunch this week is hot dogs.
The primary classes go skating Friday, March 8.
Next week is March Break. Classes resume Monday, March 18.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL The public speaking competition was held Tuesday, Feb. 26. Congratulations to all those who participated. In the junior division, third place went to Christopher Walasek, second place to Kory Chamberland, and first to Torin Marcynuk. In the senior division, third place went to Joshua Joudoin, second place to Joshua Whelan, and first place to Janna Whelan.
March Break is March 11-15. End of term report cards go home March 5.
Auditions and rehearsals for this year's performance of "Oz" will take place through the months of March, April and May. The performance will take place in late May.
Grade 7 and 8 numeracy and literacy programs, and art, French and chess clubs continue each week.
The Grade 5 students had a wonderful time at the NAC for the fascinating Beethoven concert and interesting visit to the Parliament Buildings. The Beavertails were tasty and well appreciated. Thanks to all parents who accompanied the students and volunteered their time.
The grade 7 and 8 basketball teams competed at the regionals Monday, March 4. The girls were at South Grenville, and the boys will be at Seaway District High School.
ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL Congratulations to St. Mark students who competed in the Royal Canadian Legion public speaking contest Saturday, March 2. Congratulations also to the bronze, silver and gold medal winners in the "Go For Gold" reading challenge in Mrs. Milks' and Miss Shields' Grade 3 classes!
March Break begins this weekend, and school will resume Monday, March 18. Report cards go home this week, and interviews will be held after the break.
Hot lunch this week is pizza and after the break is chicken chunks.
The new star strategy this week is "What's the Sound/What's the Letter?"
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE - Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville is accepting pre-bids as part of its ninth annual dream auction.
Although the event will be held May 11, the public is being invited to go on-line and pre-bid on items in both the live and silent auctions. Additional items which include descriptions and pictures where applicable will be added on a regular basis. Pre-bids will be accepted until May 10 at 8 pm.
Proceeds from the event will go directly to services Big Sisters provides to promote the personal development of girls between the ages of six and 16.
To pre-bid or for more information about the organization, visit www.bigsisters-leedsgrenville.org. The telephone number of the local office in Brockville is 345-3295.
The Dream Auction will take place at the 1000 Islands Mall and will be broadcast live on Cogeco Community Cable.
GANANOQUE - An information session for businesses interested in supplying goods and services to the 1000 Islands Charity Casino will take place March 13 at the Glen House Inn.
Only businesses registered under the Gaming Control Act, 1992 will be able to sell their products or services to the casino being built on the boundary between Gananoque and Leeds and Thousand Islands. Two sessions one at 2 pm, the other at 6 pm will be offered to explain the registration process.
The inn is located on the Parkway about five km east of the 100 Islands Bridge.
In a media advisory issued Feb. 27, Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman urges businesses in the area to attend one of the two sessions. "This is an opportunity to qualify as a supplier to the casino and I am hopeful that the needs of the casino, both in products and services, can be met locally," Runciman stated.
Construction of the $54-million casino located on the boundary between Gananoque and Leeds and Thousand Islands is under way; the facility is expected to open this summer.
A job fair to recruit staff for the 1000 Islands Charity Casino attracted more than 2,300 applicants.
The fair was held Feb. 22 and Feb. 23. Applicants submitted resumes and took part in initial mini-interviews as they applied for one or two positions at the new facility.
The many positions to be filled by the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation involve everything from security and marketing to game operations and hospitality.
An estimated 160 full-time and 190 part-time jobs will be created at the casino.
Prescott Firefighter Brent Norton speaking to retired
NHL tough guy Dave "Tiger" Williams prior to Battle
of the Badges game
It should come as no surprise the district health unit is encouraging municipal councils in Leeds and Grenville to enact bylaws to ban smoking in public places. After all, there are statistics and survey results to support the premise smoking and second-hand tobacco smoke do a lot of damage to public health, and a majority of Canadians appear to be in favour of restrictions on where people can and cannot smoke. The mandate of the health unit is to protect public health, so calling on municipalities to make it an offence to smoke in an office, restaurant or arena is understandable given the information health officials have at their disposal.
But our society has a bad habit of being inconsistent when it comes to drugs and other controlled substances. The government does not permit cigarette advertising on TV and imposes health warnings on packaging, even though it is legal for adults to purchase and consume tobacco products. We encourage young people not to start smoking and we try (at least officially) to make it more difficult for them to buy cigarettes, but as is the case with alcohol we allow them to make their own decisions once they've turned 19. Teenagers continue to receive mixed messages from adults whose support for smoke-free places is somewhat inconsistent. For the sake of consistency, shouldn't youngsters be told smoking is a bad idea whether they are at a bar or in the comfort of their own home? The results of the health unit's survey do not fully convey that message. The survey indicates most of us support a ban on smoking in recreation facilities, but only half of us think it's okay to force bar patrons to butt out. Why is it more acceptable for smoking to be allowed in some places and not others?
No one is disputing the fact cigarette smoking is a serious public health issue. Most of us can accept limitations on smoking in the workplace and in most indoor places accessible to the public. But the classic case of the rights of the community versus those of the individual come into play with cigarettes, and municipal councils in Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal must consider the views of all their constituents when deciding on the fate of no-smoking bylaws. Does a restaurant or bar have the right to decide whether it will be smoke-filled or smoke-free? Should the customer expect the latter no matter where he or she goes? How much of a grace period should be given in terms of compliance with any restrictions?
Our elected officials are being asked to answer those questions, and anyone who wants a say had better come forward now before decisions are made.
Yes! was the exclamation after I finally got to line 484 in the income tax return late Sunday night. I had put off the dreaded duty long enough - there was no avoiding the line-up of sharpened pencils, scratch pad, calculator and requisite cup of tea any longer.
I had moped all weekend, wondering why I would have to work so hard for so little, or even the possibility of having to give a little more.
You see, I never try to expect things or get too excited about things, because I hate disappointments. I've had that philosophy since college days when an expected, highly-rated party never materialized. So I figure, if you don't set yourself up in the first place, the drop isn't as far or hard. But if it does happen, the pleasure is that much greater.
And so, line by line the tension slowly mounted, until the numbers began to take on some meaning and I had a glimmer of which way things were headed.
I started scratching down numbers a little faster in anticipation - sort of like a scratch-and-win lottery ticket - and there was the wonderful negative you-have-a-refund number!
And not just any old number - substantial enough to take the edge off the overdue hydro, phone, utility and property tax bills. Whew.
So there will be many happy wolves at the door. Now that I've said this - it better happen the way I figure it. I've been right almost to the penny the past couple of years, so why should it go wrong now? Yeah, I'll believe it when the cheque is in the mail.
*****
A couple of Sundays ago, shortly after one of those freak winter snowfalls we've been getting this year, I had an experience not soon forgotten and painful to remember. Travelling out of Prescott on my way to Cardinal for an assignment, the back tires of the van got caught up in a slushy patch on the road. I'm sure I don't have a clear memory of this. (As I spun from shoulder to shoulder and did a 360 in the centre of the road, I was thinking more about my kids' future than recounting the details of the accident.) Anyway, it was a terrifying ride that ended up with the van facing the opposite direction I had been driving, on the wrong side of the road. Had there been an oncoming car, I wouldn't be writing this now.
With my heart pounding and feeling scared to death, I sat there in a daze. The driver of the vehicle travelling behind me stopped right away. After inquiring first if I was okay, he said I was incredibly lucky. And I know I was. I don't know what saved me or the van from anything more than heart-pounding terror.
My good samaritan, who introduced himself as Dan Roode of Cardinal, was able to push the van out of the brush leading to the river with the help of another fellow who stopped, although I didn't get his name.
I did make it for the assignment in Cardinal despite driving at a frightened snail's pace to get there. I was still weak-kneed by the time I arrived home later that afternoon. Thanks for your time and kind actions, fellas.
John A.H. Morris
One of the most informative documents that has passed our desk on its way from the attic of Janny and Rudy Roeger above their Mary-Kay Shoppe at 354 King St. W., to the historical society archives, is a copy of an 1876 Town of Prescott voters' list.
This 126-year-old document lists all of the eligible voters, their addresses, and whether they were owners (freeholders) or tenants. During that era only men were allowed to vote. In 1876 the municipal clerk was Bartholomew White and the mayor was James Buckley, White was also Prescott's first mayor (1850-56) and is the great grandfather of Prescott lawyer Dick Tobin.
Prescott at that time was divided into three wards: East Ward from Centre to Boundary between King and Wood; South Ward Water and King streets from Edward to West; West Ward Henry St. north to Wood and from Centre west to the town limits (Sophia) and a short stretch of Water St. There were 235 voters registered in the East Ward, 181 in South Ward, and 252 in West Ward for a total of 668.
The spelling of some Prescott names confused us when we were compiling our recent history of the town, and among these was the name Buckley. Sometimes it was spelled with an 'e' and sometimes without an 'e'. This voters' list had the answer. There was a John Buckly listed at 173-174 Wood St. and a James Buckly on King St., both in the East Ward and both minus an 'e' in their name. In the South Ward were a William, John and James Buckley, all with an 'e'. William's address was listed as 26 King St. W., and John and James' address as 297 and 298 Water St. These latter two would be on the waterfront immediately east of George St. where the original Buckley home and warehouses were located.
The Labatts of Labatts Brewery were listed in the South and West wards as LaBatts, with R.P. and George as the owners of 140 and 141 King (where the Coast Guard Building now stands and where the original Labatts Brewery was located.) There is a George LaBatt listed as a tenant in the West Ward at 387 George St.
The largest landowner at the time was wealthy lumber dealer James Irwin. He owned lots 36 to 45 on Dibble St. and lots 36 to 46 on James St. between St. Lawrence and Ann streets. This consisted of all the lots on the north side of Dibble St. and the south side of James St. between St. Lawrence and Ann. Mr. Irwin was the mayor of Prescott primarily responsible for the construction of the Victorian-era town hall built in 1874 and which graced the south-west corner of King and Centre streets until 1962. He built the large, Italianate style town house at 530 Dibble St. now owned by Tom Craig.
Listed as a tenant of the Alpheus Jones house (Chestnut Hall) on Dibble St. was his son, Sydney Ford Jones. Probably the reason he was listed as a tenant was that the house and property had been left to his mother in his father's will. She would not have been on the voters' list as women did not have a vote at that time. Sydney Ford Jones carried on the lumber supply business started by his father prior to his death in 1863.
The last member of the Jones family to own the property was Allen Jones, possibly a son of Sydney or perhaps a brother. He sold the stately home and lumber supply business in 1921 to the Earle brothers, owners of the McMaster Lumber Co. in Kemptville. They sold it to Harry A. Clarke of Orono, On. in 1943 and he operated it until his retirement in 1970. The historic home and large property is still owned by the Clarke family, although it is now listed for sale.
Another significant landowner of the 1870s was Dr. Hamilton Dibble Jessup, a grandson of the founder of Prescott. He owned lots 29 to 33 on the south side of Dibble St. between West and St. Lawrence. It is probably one of these lots that the Prescott Lawn Bowling Club purchased from the estate of Justice Jones in 1915, although the club had existed since 1890.
Although J.P. Wiser and his right hand man, Albert Whitney, were listed as voters in the South Ward Wiser as a house and distillery owner and Whitney as a shipyard tenant they both owned considerable property on Dibble and James streets.
Wiser owned lots 22 and 23 on Dibble St. and lots 27 and 28 on James St. He donated lot 22 to the town on which to build a high school in 1894. Whitney and Wiser built homes beside each other on Dibble St., with Whitney living in one (the brick home immediately west of Slater Funeral Home) and Wiser building on the lot directly west of this for his son Harlow who was being groomed as the Wiser Distillery successor, but who died suddenly of a heart attack at the age of 35, in 1895.
The town of Prescott at that time included considerable acreage north of the Grand Trunk Rail Road (now the CNR) which was not developed until the early 1950s. Thomas Smith, John Smith Jr. and James Smith Sr. are listed as owning 206 acres each north of the GTRR.
The Editor;
In the jungle, the mighty jungle, the Edwardsburgh Lions weren't sleeping Saturday night! They were busy handing out monetary packages to the various groups of the township that are devoted to the betterment of our community.
For the fourth year running they hosted their annual "Sponsors Evening Dance" and this time parted with funds in excess of $7,000!
I know I speak for all the groups involved and especially the Spencerville Guiding units when I say a big thank you to the generous and hard-working ladies and gents who make all this possible. It is really heartwarming to witness the obvious pleasure it gives them to be our supporters.
To all the Lions and Lionesses you really are "King of the jungle!"
Diane Jozefowicz, 1st Spencerville Guides
and Limerick District Commissioner
Girl Guides of Canada
Ryan Murdock
This week I'd like to share a travelogue, a small snapshot from my wanderings.
Nara was the first capital of Japan, from 710 until 794. It's located on the Kansai Plain near Japan's third largest city, Osaka. This region was historically the centre of the Japanese world; today it's the centre of Japanese history.
It's an unassuming little town of about 349,000 people. From JR Nara station it didn't look any different than other medium-sized Japanese towns. I didn't feel the pulse of history beating beneath my feet, or the breath of long dead emperors and courtiers on the back of my neck. The only breath I felt was the chill January wind and the only pulse came from the traffic. As I walked towards Nara-Koen Park, with each footstep, modernity receded into the background.
Quiet settled around me in the grounds of Kofukuji Temple. I crunched along gravel paths and peeked into temples; their shadowy doorways exhaled wisps of incense smoke, the tangible manifestation of basso sutras being chanted inside. Up ahead two wooden pagodas reached like giant layer cakes towards the sky. One was built in 1143, the other in 1426. The main hall of Kofukuji dates back to 710. All of these temples are still active today, housing resident monks and disciples. They also shelter Buddhist relics and works of religious art.
The biggest attraction in Nara, pun intended, is Todaiji Temple. It's the largest wooden building in the world. Inside is the Daibutsu, one of the largest bronze images in the world. This enormous Buddha statue, shining dully in the dim temple interior, sits on an enormous bronze lotus leaf and is 16 metres high. It dates back to 746.
On the other side of the park is Kasuga Taisha shrine. It's a Shinto shrine that was founded in the 8th Century by the Fujiwara family. Gravel paths lined with hundreds of stone lanterns wind through groves of tall thin bamboo. On special occasions the shrine priest will crack open one of the large oak sake kegs and for a small donation you can buy a drink of this blessed nectar.
Throughout Nara Park the famous temple deer roam free. The deer have lived here since ancient times when they were considered messengers from the gods. Today they enjoy the status of national treasures.
The temple deer rule the park like spoiled Mafiosi; they're bullying and aggressive. Well-intentioned tourists buy deer biscuits at stalls and attempt to feed the animals. When the deer see this thinly disguised tribute, this wafery tithe, they charge in packs to jostle and shove. The poor Japanese, timid around large animals, drop the cookies and flee in terror.
I refused to bow down to this tyranny. When the deer pushed me I grabbed them by the nose and pushed back. When they reached into my pocket with their snouts I applied a vice-like headlock. The Japanese were amazed. Soon I was crouching on the ground holding crackers in my mouth, feeding the deer while tourists stared and took pictures.
They looked at me with obvious disbelief when I told them we have bigger dogs than this in Canada, and that Canadian deer are the size of horses. I felt a little like Marco Polo; people laughed at his descriptions of dog-faced men at the edges of the known world. History will vindicate us both.
***
Editor's Note: This is one in a series of columns written by Prescott native Ryan Murdock, who now resides in Tokyo.
Jane Fullarton
Augusta Township interim tax bills will be mailed this week with taxes due Thursday, March 28. The office will be closed March 29 for Good Friday. The first bill is for approximately 50 per cent of last year's tax bill.
Included with the interim tax bill is a brochure and new library card for the Augusta Public Library. The library board has completed its Millennium Project which involved adding computer work stations to the library and automating the collection. The bar coding of all the books and materials has now been completed, and library staff are currently involved in training to use the new computers and Mandarin catalogue system.
Librarian Eleanor Denny expects to have the computerized check out of books operational by April 1. Library patrons will need a new library card to use the new system. To publicize the changeover from card catalogue to computer the library board is sending a new card to every property owner in Augusta. The board is hoping to attract people who have never used the library and to entice people who have not used the service for awhile to come back and see the new services available.
The Augusta Library now has high-speed Internet access via satellite on five computers for free patron use. The library has the Internet Electric Library, which allows patrons to access articles from newspapers and news magazines. This is an excellent tool for students working on projects. The collection includes hundreds of cookbooks and books on arts and crafts, exercise, health, diets and decorating. There is something for everyone.
When you receive your new library card, take it to the library to have your name and address entered into the system. Additional cards for family members are free. This is an excellent opportunity to rediscover the Augusta Public Library.
The Augusta Library will feature story time Wednesday, March 13 at 9:30 for children aged three to eight. Volunteers are needed to continue the program for preschoolers on Wednesday mornings. If you are interested in reading a couple of stories and doing a simple craft with preschool children once or twice a month, call the library at 926-2449.
The Friends of the Library is hosting a Fashion Show March 21 at 7:30 at the library in Algonquin. There is an admission fee; there will be prizes and draws. Everyone is welcome.
SPENCERVILLE - Several issues related to curbside collection of waste and recyclables in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal were discussed by the township's Public Works Committee recently.
At its meeting in Spencerville Feb. 21, the committee decided collection days will be Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. The Manager of Public Works, Lawrence Rooney, will review routes with Waste Services Incorporated (WSI) to determine areas and days of the week for collection.
Door-to-door collection will begin the first week of next month.
WSI will distribute green boxes with a calendar of collection weeks and a list of recyclables. Paper products are to be recycled in green boxes; cardboard does not have to be in the green boxes to be picked up. Recycled glass, plastics and cans are to be put into blue boxes.
The current garbage tag system will be honoured until June 30, 2002, at which point clear garbage bags with the municipal logo will be mandatory for curbside pickup.
Several councillors felt tags should be accepted until the end of this year because many residents may not use up their tags by the end of June. At council's meeting Monday night in Spencerville, councillors Peggy Taylor, Peter Martin and Dan McDonald supported a motion to extend the deadline. However, councillors Marie Thomson, Bill Sloan, Frank Noccey and Mayor David Dobbie voted to keep the deadline at the end of June.
"We need the revenue from the sale of garbage bags to offset the expenses of curbside pickup," said Dobbie.
Sloan suggested township residents could use their extra tags to drop off large items such as appliances at landfill sites, rather than paying money.
By Jon Kuiperij - Journal Staff Writer
SPENCERVILLE - The Drummond Sugar Bush celebrated the achievement of a milestone at its season opening last weekend.
More than 60 people filled the Pancake House Sunday afternoon to help George W. Drummond, wife Marilynne and family celebrate the 200th year of the business, located west of Spencerville on County Road 21.
"It's quite a thing," Drummond said. "We can't find, anywhere we've checked, a family business that has gone (this long.) We're very proud to celebrate 200 years in this sugar bush."
Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor David Dobbie were on hand to present the Drummond family with congratulatory letters and certificates.
"Two hundred years is a long time for a company to be in business, let alone a family business," Dobbie said in his presentation to the family.
Ontario Premier Mike Harris and Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman also sent letters complimenting the business on its achievement.
Seven generations have had a hand in the operation, founded in 1802 by George Peter Drummond. George W. Drummond's children - Heather, Peter, Russell and Robert - work in the sugar bush as well.
"We have fun doing it; it's a hobby," George W. Drummond said, noting the importance of keeping a family tradition alive. "We don't make much money at this, but we do it to show people how maple syrup is made."
Maple sugar was the main product in the farm's early days; the business also made and sold maple vinegar until 1918. In recent years, maple syrup has become the primary output, as the farm produces approximately 400 gallons annually.
At first, sap troughs were used and the trees were tapped with a tapping gauge. Later, wooden spiles and buckets were used to collect sap, as well as wooden barrel gathering tanks and gathering pails. Tubing was installed in the bush in 1971, but damage from the ice storm in 1998 has forced the farm back to the use of buckets.
"With the buckets, we only get about half of the sap we used to get with the tubing," Drummond said. "The ice storm took a deep toll on wood lots all over. Some trees are still dying from the storm. It might be another four or five years before we know the true effect of the ice storm."
Drummond, who has been involved with the business for more than 70 years and has run it since 1969, said the Great Depression was also a difficult time for the sugar bush.
"My dad worked in Ottawa to pay the taxes on the land and keep it going," Drummond said.
The first sugar camp consisted of a log building containing two kettles. Sap was stored in an underground tank and was pumped to a wooden storage trough in the sugarhouse. From there the sap flowed to kettles for processing.
Over the years, three additional sugar camps have been constructed on the Drummond farm, with the present camp being built in 1964. Since the pancake house was added in 1986, more than 10,000 people have visited the sugar bush annually.
SPENCERVILLE - An agreement allowing Storm Internet Services to put equipment on top of the Cardinal water tower was rescinded by Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council Monday night in Spencerville.
"The tower can't handle any more antennas," said Mayor David Dobbie, adding the cancelled agreement was a "mutual decision."
Storm had wanted to put an antenna on top of the water tower to carry signals from Ogdensburg to Cardinal and on to Brockville. According to Dobbie, the Internet service provider is investigating other options in the former village.
"We are going to have to evaluate the value antennas and dishes on the tower are giving to residents of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal," Dobbie said.
SPENCERVILLE - The municipality of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal is once again imposing an interim tax levy.
Township residents are required to pay 50 per cent of their 2001 tax levy by April 1. Under the Municipal Act of 1990, municipalities are authorized, before the adoption of the estimates for the year, to pass a bylaw levying amounts on the assessment of property.
The remaining amount of 2002 property tax will be due in the fall, Mayor David Dobbie said.
CARDINAL Rideau Carleton Raceway will open its newest off-track betting theatre tomorrow at the 730 Truck Stop near Cardinal.
This new opening will represent the first ever non-alcohol licensed off-track betting facility in Ontario.
Visitors will be able to watch and wager on simulcast horse racing from tracks across Canada and the United States, seven evenings and two afternoons per week.
The official grand opening will be held March 15 at 7 pm. Visitors will be treated to complimentary race programs, a handicapping contest, a race analysis and door prizes.
Off-track betting used to be available at the Islander Hotel in Cardinal before it was sold last September.
Doreen Annie Baynham, 4642 Fourth Concession Road, Prescott, died Sunday, Feb. 24, 2002 at Brockville General Hospital. She was 75.
She was born Sept. 4, 1926 at Brockville, the daughter of Dawson Alkerton and Beatrice Blair, who predeceased her. She married Alton Baynham March 12, 1948 at Maynard.
Mrs. Baynham is survived by her husband Alton; sons Ray and Brad Baynham; daughters Sandra Robinson and Sharon (Mrs. Robert Baker); grandchildren Andrew Robinson, Leah Baynham, Amelia Baynham, Sarah Baynham, Mitchel Baker (friend Krissy), Christopher Baker, Ryan Baker and Theresa (Mrs. Dave Dillon). She was the great grandmother of Gabriel Dillon and Lucas Baker.
Her main interests were her family and baseball. She had been employed as a custodian at South Grenville District High School.
Visitation took place at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, Prescott, Tuesday, Feb. 26, where the funeral service was held in the chapel Feb. 27 at 11 am. Rev. Gerry Ring officiated. The committal service followed at Roselawn Memorial Gardens.
The pall bearers were John McCrea, Mike McCrea, John and Jack Weststrate, Ken Dickson and Lyle Lawrence.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Gordon Gerald Baker, formerly of 736 Dibble St., Prescott, and later of 25 Coyle Dr., Morrisburg, died peacefully after a brief illness in his 91st year.
He was the son of the late George Arthur Baker and the late Christina Lauderville. He was also predeceased by his brothers Hugh and Howard in WWI. He was also predeceased by his brother Wade and his sister Betty.
Mr. Baker spent most of his life in Prescott. He married the former Edna Mae Barkley April 22, 1950 at St. John's Anglican Church. She predeceased him in 1994. He had been a long-time employee of Newell Industries.
Mr. Baker will be sadly missed by his nephew Gordon Snyder and his wife Yvonne, and their children Matthew and Tyler, of Morrisburg.
Private arrangements were entrusted to the Marsden McLaughlin Funeral Home, Iroquois. Burial is to take place in the family plot at Sandy Hill Cemetery in the spring.
Elva Lee Beatson-Styles, formerly of Cardinal, died suddenly Thursday, Feb. 21, 2002 at her home, 5727 Ferdinand St., Osgoode. She was 45.
She was born in Brockville Aug. 7, 1956, the daughter of Thomas and Eleanor Beatson, who survive. She married Mike Styles Aug. 25, 1984 at the Free Methodist Church, Cardinal. She had attended grade school in Cardinal and South Grenville District High School, Prescott.
Mrs. Beatson-Styles is also survived by her husband Mike; son Corey and daughter Courtney, both at home; brother Tom and his wife Nancy of Morrisburg; and sisters Helen (Ron) Sayyeau of Watford, Linda Beatson of Cardinal, Cathy (Jeff) Horan of RR 3 Prescott, and Alice (Tim) Gleeson of Almonte. She will be sadly missed by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Friends called at the Marsden and McLaughlin Funeral Home, Cardinal, Sunday, Feb. 24, where the funeral service was held Monday, Feb. 25 at 1 pm. Rev. Valerie James officiated. Interment was at St. Andrew's Riverside Cemetery, Cardinal.
The pall bearers were Ron Sayyeau, Tim Gleeson, Jeff Horan, Alex Beatson, James Beatson and Peter Mueller.
Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.
MAITLAND - The first Coerver Coaching residential soccer camp in Canada will be held this summer at Grenville Christian College (GCC) in Maitland.
An international coaching staff, with representation from Australia, Ireland, Germany, the United States and Canada, will join the Australian junior (nine- and ten-year-olds) and senior (11-, 12- and 13-year-olds) squads at the camp, which will run from July 28 to Aug. 3.
The camp will be organized by Brinston-based CanadaKicks, the licensee for Coerver Coaching in Canada. Coerver Coaching is the largest global soccer education program with schools, events and products available in Europe.
CanadaKicks Technical Director Bill Ault is excited about the camp, especially the involvement of 31 Australian players and coaches.
"With the involvement of Coerver Australia we feel we can offer a truly unique experience for our campers," says Ault. "The Australian program is, in my opinion, one of the best in the world and the camp will give our players and coaches a chance to learn from the best."
Ault says the residential camp offers "another level of coaching and ability." CanadaKicks will also hold a regular day camp at GCC that week, similar to the camp last year.
The Maitland site is advantageous for several reasons, Ault says.
"Maitland is quite easy to get to from the U.S.," says Ault, who expects campers from New Brunswick, Quebec, New York State and Ontario. "Also, the facilities are great - three fields is perfect, just the right size. We'll be adding weeks in Maitland before we go anywhere else."
Coaches confirmed for the residential camp include Colin McCurdy, a former Northern Ireland International, Colin Lennon, the goalkeeper coach at George Washington University, Franco Bari, head coach of Elmira College in New York and John Crawley, director of goalkeeping coaching for Coerver Oceania.
Hugh Dooley, head coach of the Eastern Ontario District Soccer Association's girls' programs, Mike Toshak, goalkeeper coach for Canada's U20 team, and Ault will head the Canadian core of the staff.
"The camp will be unlike any other that I've been involved with," says Ault. "The combination of a world-class staff and a fabulous facility will allow us to offer a truly unique program."
In addition to the regular Coerver Coaching day camp program for nine- to 12-year-olds and Mighty Mite program for five- to eight-year-olds, the camp will offer a junior (ages nine to 12), senior (13 to 16) and goalkeeper academy program for more advanced players. Part of the program will include classroom sessions on nutrition, injury prevention, goal setting, recovery and sun care.
Plans are also underway to conduct a clinic for coaches during the camp.
PRESCOTT - Central Public School's senior boys' and senior girls' basketball teams have both qualified for this week's Upper Canada Elementary Schools Championship Tournament in Brockville.
The girls' team beat St. Bernard's, Nationview, St. Joseph Catholic School and Benson Public School at Monday's Southeast Regional tournament in Prescott before dropping the final 36-17 to St. Cecilia of Iroquois.
The top two teams in the regional competition moved on to the county championships today at TISS.
Stacey Kenney led Central in playoff scoring with 12 points; Lyndsay Biccum added nine and Jessica Van Lanen drained six points.
At the boys' Southeast Regional tournament Monday in Iroquois, Central defeated Nationview, South Edwardsburg Public School, Benson, St. Bernard's, St. Joseph and Iroquois to win the title. The team plays in the counties championship tomorrow at TISS.
Five local elementary schools participated in a senior boys' and girls' basketball tournament Feb. 23 at South Grenville District High School.
Central, which hosted the event, won its division in both boys' and girls' competition with 3-0 records. The Central boys' squad knocked off St. Francis 48-33 in the semi-final and edged Russell 33-30 to win the overall title. Scott Hall had 12 points with Chad Campbell and Nick Gould adding six each in the final.
The Central girls' team easily won its three round-robin games but was upset in the semi-final by St. Joseph, 19-17. St. Joseph posted a 2-1 record in preliminary action but fell 21-4 to St. Cecilia in the final.
St. Joseph's boys' team won its opening game, 26-7 over St. Cecilia, but dropped its next two contests.
Maynard Public School went 1-2 in both boys' and girls' action; Boundary Street Public School struggled to a combined 0-6 record.
Benson only competed in girls' play, beating Nationview 20-7 for its lone win of the tournament.
SOUTH GRENVILLE - The South Grenville 730 Truck Stop bantam "C" Rangers advanced to the second round of the playoffs with a 6-3 win over the North Leeds Stars Feb. 27 in Westport.
The game was tied 1-1 after the first period, but South Grenville broke the game open with a four-goal outburst in the middle stanza. The Rangers led 5-3 after two frames and put the game away with a goal in the third period.
Jonathan Baldwin led the way with a pair of markers. William McNish, Matthew Hayes, Logan Gillard and Ryan Fischer also tallied for South Grenville.
The Rangers took both games of the two-game series after winning 4-1 Feb. 25 in Cardinal. South Grenville opened its second round series in Brockville last night; Brockville eliminated Kingston in preliminary round playoff action.
PRESCOTT - A Prescott-based rink is hoping for a rock-solid performance at the Ontario Winter Games.
The bantam girls' team will compete this week at the provincial competition in Guelph. The foursome consists of skip Laura Payne third Lauren Mann, second Candice Johnston and lead Ryrie Brisco. Johnston is 16; the other players are 17.
The team qualified for the games by placing in the top four at the provincial bantam playdowns in early February.
Coach Kevin Payne said the team got off to a slow start this season, but has begun to excel.
"They're really a great bunch of young ladies," the coach said.
Although Prescott serves as the team's base, team members are spread throughout the region. Johnston and Mann hail from Russell; Brisco lives in Ottawa, and Payne calls Brockville home. The girls knew each other from playing with and against each other at bonspiels throughout the region.
In addition to practising together in Prescott two or three times a week and competing at bonspiels, the girls also play at their home clubs.
The coach noted the team is coming into its own at a good time. Four southern and two northern teams will compete at the Ontario games.
"I'd be happy with top three," Mann said. "Obviously, you want (to place) first."
Brisco echoed that sentiment. Winning would be great, but coming back from the games with a title would be fine "as long as we played well."
SOUTH GRENVILLE - The South Grenville peewee "B" Rangers are 1-1 in their round-robin playoff consolation series with Athens and Kingston Loyalist.
The Rangers began the series Feb. 28 in Prescott against Athens and defeated the Aeros 7-5. Matt Deeks tallied twice with singles going to Stephen Joudoin, Joshua Whelan, Andrew Wilson, Josh Joudoin and Micheal Froom. Deeks completed his five-point night with three assists; Nathaniel Hayes and Zack Van Allen also had three helpers.
Froom had two assists with Dustin Curry, Kyle McDougald and Whelan setting up one goal each. Kevin Beach recorded the win in goal.
South Grenville hosted Kingston Loyalist in Cardinal Sunday night and fell 6-4. Deeks bagged a pair for the Rangers with McDougald and Wilson rounding out the scoring.
Froom had two assists with Sam Whitley, Van Allen, Wilson and McDougald also recording helpers. Kurtis Merkley took the loss in net.
The Rangers resume the series tonight in Amherstview when they face Kingston Loyalist. Each team plays the others twice; the team with the most points after round-robin action moves on to challenge the consolation champion from the Eastern Division.
South Grenville also participated in a tournament in Alexandria Feb. 24. The team won its first game, 3-2 against South Stormont, before falling to Massena 1-0.
Josh Joudoin, McDougald and Van Allen were the Ranger marksmen versus South Stormont. Hayes had two assists with Deeks and Froom picking up one helper each.
Merkley picked up the win against South Stormont while Beach was tagged with the loss against Massena.
PRESCOTT - The Prescott Figure Skating Club will hold its 34th annual Ice Show this weekend, featuring 150 skaters from the ages of two to 19.
The theme for this year's show is "Flashback", a tribute to some of the club's most memorable musical compositions from the past.
Show times are 7:30 pm Saturday and 2 pm Sunday at the Leo Boivin Community Centre in Prescott. The doors open one hour before show time each day.
"Susan Langstaff and Jill Bernier (co-chairs of this year's show) have worked diligently, along with their committee, on this year's production," says club president Donna Baguss. "They have put together an entertaining show, capturing great musical moments from the past and setting the stage to showcase the talents of our skaters."
Five-time Canadian bronze medalist competitive dance team Megan Wing and Aaron Lowe are the club's guest skaters this year and will skate both days of the event.
"Without exception, the guest skaters will be a highlight for all our skaters and audience alike," Baguss says. "(This is a) opportunity to enjoy the up-and-coming stars from our club as well as the wonderfully talented world class dance couple 'Wing and Lowe.'"
SOUTH GRENVILLE - In a collision of two South Grenville bantam house league teams, the #2 Rangers knocked off the #1 Rangers in two straight games to win their first-round playoff series.
South Grenville #2 edged the #1 Rangers 4-3 Sunday in Prescott to finish the series. Matt Fahrngruber, Cody Cassell, Phil Lauzon and Jon Clarke tallied for South Grenville #2 with Scott Glover, Sean McKinstry, Jimmy Utman and Cassell adding assists. Ryan O'Brien, Mike Armstrong and Tyler Halladay responded for South Grenville #1 with William Minish, John Taylor and O'Brien drawing helpers.
Forwards Eric Spero, Alex Hewson and Oliver Last and defensemen Ryan Sobie and Justin Polasz played well for the #2 Rangers in front of goaltenders Blake Gobeil and Kevin Richards.
South Grenville #2 won the first game of the series 7-5 Thursday in Cardinal. The #2 Rangers advance to the East Division Championships where they will face North Dundas or Kemptville.
KINGSTON - The Brockville Blazers midget "AA" girls' basketball team took the silver medal at a 12-team tournament in Kingston last weekend.
The Blazers met Ottawa in the final of the L&A Guardsmen Classic, falling 34-30 to the Lady Titans.
Amy Solc had 12 points with Alex Ward picking up five assists.Jenna Beatty had eight rebounds.
Brockville reached the final with four consecutive wins after dropping its opening game to Ottawa, 44-32.
The Blazers downed the Kingston Fighting Irish 49-45 and knocked off the Durham Merchants 50-36 to round out round-robin action.
Heidi Rienstra poured in nine points against Durham.
In their first playoff contest, the Blazers beat the Peterborough Saints 38-31 on the strength of 12 points from Rienstra.
Brockville then edged the Gloucester Wolverines, 49-46 in overtime, to reach the gold medal contest.
Rienstra had nine points with Ward and Solc adding eight each.
Sam Joudoin of South Grenville also plays for the Blazers, who are 8-5 in regular season action.
SMITHS FALLS - The South Grenville bantam #1 Rangers reached the "A" final of a tournament Saturday in Smiths Falls.
South Grenville met Perth/Lanark in the championship game and dropped a 4-3 decision. Mike Armstrong had two goals and an assist; Will Minish also scored and had two assists in the loss.
The Rangers reached the title match with a 3-2 overtime win over Smiths Falls #2 earlier in the day. Shane McNeely scored in the extra session to give South Grenville the victory; Ryan O'Brien and Armstrong notched the other Ranger goals and recorded an assist each. Matt Fox and Justin Halladay also drew helpers with Matt Saunders picking up the win in goal.
In the Rangers' first game, they downed the Almonte/Pakenham Thunder 4-2. Minish scored twice and had one assist; Jason Taylor also had three points with a goal and two assists.
Tyler Halladay scored the other South Grenville goal. Justin Halladay and O'Brien had assists.
CARDINAL - The South Grenville bantam "B" Rangers seem prepared for the Bantam "AA" tournament in Cardinal later this month.
The team posted a seven-game winning streak in February, beating Loyalist three times, Brockville twice and Kemptville and Gananoque once each.
After opening their first-round playoff series against Brockville with a 6-4 win, the Rangers fell 1-0 Sunday night. The series is tied 1-1 with the next game Thursday night at the Memorial Centre in Brockville.
Team members include Curtis Bucking, Ryan Davy, Kirk Donovan, Troy Dukelow, Rob Fullarton, Chris Hogeveen, Ben Hutt, Nick Maggio, Allan Robertson, Dustin Ruigrok, Jason Rupert, Mike Toll, Mark Wyatt, Ryan Wynands and affiliate players Vince Francica, Logan Gillard and David Wallace.
The team, coached by Gary Hogeveen, Mike Toll and Steve Wyatt, will compete in the Bantam "AA" tournament March 22 - 24.