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By Jeff Lee - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT Highland bands, dancers and a K9 unit combined to make the second annual fling Saturday a success, says an event organizer.
"It was wonderful," said Tourism Prescott executive director Mike Boyles. "A fantastic day. Everybody did a great job. The bands were out of this world. The dancers were wonderful. And the OPP police dogs, we were lucky to have them."
The Highland Fling included bands parading along King Street and a tattoo at Fort Wellington. Although attendance numbers seemed lower than in its inaugural year, Boyles estimates the number of people attending the tattoo at the fort was just under 1,500. If the estimated 1,000 people that were downtown for the classical car show, sidewalk sale and parade of bands are added into that figure, Boyles said the total number is about 3,000.
Rain about mid-way through the program at the fort affected the numbers as the tattoo moved into the Leo Boivin Community Centre.
Boyles said its was hoped there would be more people taking part in the day, but added there were several other events being held in the area such as the DuPont family picnic and the firefighters' field day.
One conspicuous no-show was war hero Col. Red George Macdonell, played by Peter Bevan-Baker last year. Macdonell commanded 35 trained men of the Lancaster Highlanders in the capture of the fort in Ogdensburg in 1813. Former Prescott councillor Craig Worden took over the master of ceremony duties.
When asked if the Celtic Festival held last week in Brockville had any effect on Prescott's attendance numbers, Boyles said, the celtic festival is a different event. Brockville is trying to make a Riverfest out of a highland fling, he said.
"We have a better program."
The program included 25 MacCulloch Dancers from Glengarry County, eight of whom are world champion dancers who have been to international venues, Boyles said. MacLeod, MacCormick Band, who are also from Glengarry, entertained both outdoors and indoors.
Shortly after they started performing, it started to rain, and the tattoo moved into the Leo Boivin Community Centre, just north of the fort.
After about a 15-minute delay, when the MacLeod, MacCormick band was hooking up to the rinks PA system, the Spencerville Legion Band performed.
"The Spencerville Pipe [sic] band was really top notch," he said. "They are one of the top bands in the county."
Boyles said playing in the arena may have actually enhanced the Legion band's sound, as well as that of others.
The crowd that watched the remained of the tattoo have decreased in size.
Libby Pilon, Fort Wellington spokesperson, said the number of people attending the fort was double what it is normally on a weekend at this time of year.
"Usually, we get between 30 to 50 people," adding there were more than 100 people who toured the Fort Saturday.
Boyles said next year's tattoo is already in the works, with a growing list of top bands to perform at Prescott's third fling. He said the fling will continue to build upon previous years, so when it hits five years, Prescott will be ready and in the running to be selected to host the Highland Games.
By Monica Whitney - Journal Staff Writer
MAITLAND Ultramar officials have determined any water contamination experienced by homeowners living nearby its Maitland site has not been caused by current or previous work conducted at the Church Street facility.
Representatives from the Quebec-based refinery told a gathering of about 25 people June 12 at MERC Hall the company's investigations indicate it has no off-site soil or water concerns.
Ultramar called the public meeting as a follow-up to its February discussion to inform residents of the progress of redevelopment work. The company purchased the Maitland tank farm in 1999 from Universal Terminals, and this past winter began construction on a $25-million scheme to revamp and modernize the operation. The site has been in existence since the 1950s.
Approximately 60 per cent of soil remediation work at the tank farm is now complete, and more than 600 truck loads of contaminated soil has been removed from the site. That work is expected to be complete by August.
Since remediation work began, at least three homeowners, including Jeff Elliott, Herb Richardson and Glen Kirkland, have complained of a tainted water supply at their households.
However, Ultramar has refuted claims the company or its predecessor caused the problems.
"There is no evidence of contamination by hydrocarbon petroleum products," said Louis Forget, vice-president of public and government affairs for Ultramar.
All water tests conducted show any contaminants are within Ontario drinking water guidelines, Forget said at the meeting. All contamination has been contained within the site, he noted.
B.R. Ravishankar, a senior environmental engineer with Trow Consulting Engineers, Hydrogeologists and Planners which was contracted for work by Ultramar, said their is no off-site contamination and none is likely in the future. "The pathway for contamination to travel to homes does not exist and is not possible based on our numbers," he said.
Ravishankar explained the flow of groundwater is to the south east of the site, away from homeowners located to the west of the site. The company has worked closely with and to the satisfaction of the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) and the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) he said, and all agree there is no trace of contamination.
"We've gone the extra miles. We've done tests and sampling," Forget said. "I don't see why there should be contamination" to household water, he said, noting any water problems must have originated with some other source.
The slight contamination detected in water tests taken at homes to the west was so low, it could have been caused by a dirty or greasy hand, Ravishankar said. The numbers were extremely low and well below the stringent criteria used to test for such toxins as benzene, toluene and ethylbenzene, he said.
A series of monitoring wells drilled on the south side of the Ultramar property show no signs of contamination either, Ravishankar noted.
Vern and Alison Armstrong, who live on a six-acre property to the south of the plant, said there are no traces of contamination in their water. Both engineers employed by DuPont, the couple said they armed themselves with information and research into possible contaminants.
The Armstrongs noted they can understand why people are concerned if they don't fully understand government guidelines and standards.
"I have no reason not to trust Ultramar," Vern Armstrong said. "I don't inherently trust any big company. They're not obliged to do anything out of the goodness of their hearts. But I have no reason to doubt them." He noted the company has been "fantastic" and they have received good co-operation.
Vern Armstrong said he would prefer to keep Ultramar in Maitland if given a choice between the company or the noise of train whistles.
Augusta Reeve George Vail questioned at the meeting if another well drilled on the west side of the property could help detect contaminants in the well water of the homeowners. However, Forget said seven test wells are still operational, and there is no need for additional monitoring wells. "We have conducted enough monitoring and sampling outside of our property to know there is no contamination responsible by our property." He said the company is sure of the direction of the water flow, and that Ultramar, the MOE and TSSA would not take any chances. "If we felt there was something wrong, we would have reacted promptly to the satisfaction of everybody."
Forget noted the company had no obligation to even clean the soil at the site. "We wanted to start from brand new before we started building," he said. Ultramar representative Louis Bergeron said "It's going to be a decent site" that he expects will attract other businesses to the area and be good for the community in the long term. "We want to be good neighbours. We spend time and money to be good neighbours."
Work completed on the Ultramar project includes the demolition of the north tank farm in May, and new tank foundations are now under construction. Revamping the operating building will begin in July and is expected to be completed by September. Track sidings and noise barriers should be finished in November. Unit train unloading facilities and a fire water tank and deluge system will be under construction from Sept. to Feb. 2002. Landscaping and paving will be completed next spring.
Ultramar has contracted a number of local businesses for the project, employing about 80 people.
PRESCOTT Most people want to see Fort Wellington stay pretty much the way it is, according to the superintendent of the national historic site.
A revised management plan for the fort in the east end of town and the Battle of the Windmill site east of Prescott has been approved by the federal government and was presented to parliament June 8.
Pam Buell, superintendent of the sites, indicated Parks Canada is committed to preserving and presenting the historic sites. The fort attracts approximately 20,000 visitors each year.
Public input received during a lengthy consultation process indicated respondents "like what they see," according to Buell. People see the fort as an important national site and "a real heritage gem."
They also want to see the field and adjacent property between County Road 2 and the St. Lawrence be retained as an open space. The revised management plan does not call for the property to be developed; some members of Prescott council asked Buell at a meeting earlier this year if Parks Canada would permit residential units to be built on a portion of the open-space land as a way to expand the town's tax base.
"That is pretty much not an issue any more," Buell said.
Use of the property for public recreation purposes and projects such as the Millennium Pathway is in keeping with what most people seem to want, she added.
The fort plays host to a number of special events, including the Highland Fling Tattoo and the recent combination of the annual Naval Gun Run and RCMP Musical Ride. This arrangement is expected to continue, according to the superintendent.
"We'll continue to be an important tourism partner in Prescott," Buell said.
However, she noted any additional enhancements to the facility would likely be added in conjunction with community partners. Parks Canada will continue to work with the Friends of the Windmill Point to operate the windmill site on a seasonal basis.
The management plan covers a period of about 15 years and is usually revised every five years, according to Buell.
The two sites were designated as being of national significance in 1923.
John Morris, publisher of The Prescott Journal and acting managing editor for the past eight months, announced this week that Tim Ruhnke, a senior staff reporter, has been appointed news editor of The Journal, effective immediately.
Mr. Ruhnke has 10 years experience in the community newspaper profession and has served as news editor of both The North Renfrew Times in Deep River and The Enterprise in Iroquois Falls. He joined The Journal news staff last September and has been principally responsible for Prescott municipal and civic news.
Mr. Morris has also announced the appointment of another veteran news reporter, Monica Whitney, as editor of The Leeds and Grenville Business News. She will also retain her responsibilities for Cardinal and Augusta community news and features.
Mrs. Whitney started her community newspaper career with The Prescott Journal in 1983 and was a staff reporter until 1985. After several years in hospital public relations and as a hospital library technician, she returned to The Journal in September 1999 as a part-time researcher on the soon-to-be-published book: Morrises' History of Prescott 1800-2000. She joined the staff of The Journal on a full-time basis in May 2000.
"Monica and Tim have been sharing the editor's duties on both publications for the past six months, and I have been very pleased with their work and have every confidence they will continue to make these publications the foremost newspapers in Grenville County," Morris stated in making the announcements this week.
PRESCOTT It now costs more to buy town-approved paper garbage bags used to collect household wastes.
Council approved a bylaw Monday to increase the price from $1.25 per bag to $1.75 effective immediately. The price of regular-sized plastic garbage bags remains at $1.25 per bag.
It was noted the price the town has to pay to buy paper bags is much higher than that for plastic. The paper bags hold considerably more garbage than the plastic ones.
PRESCOTT - Additional swimming lesson times are now being offered at the Prescott pool to accommodate those unable to attend the traditional morning sessions.
Depending on interest, the new times will be Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and Sundays from noon to 1 pm.
Registration for all lessons and the swim team will be this Thursday, June 21 from 5 to 7 pm at Centennial Pool.
Public swims until Friday, June 29 from 3 to 5 pm will be offered at a special reduced rate. Regular pool hours begin Saturday, June 30. For more information, call 925-0762.
PRESCOTT The new access road to the proposed commercial development east of Edward Street near the OPP station will be called Prescott Centre Drive.
Council made the decision Monday. Town officials had been considering several names, and it appeared Major Walsh Drive was emerging as the preferred option.
But the developer, FAI Canada Development Corp., recommended the name Prescott Centre Drive. Managing partner Chris Serrie noted in a June 13 letter the town would receive constant promotion because the street is named after the town. "While names associated with history or past townspeople are certainly sentimental their appeal and benefit only serve a select number of people."
MAYNARD A new property standards bylaw may be in the works for Augusta Township.
Deputy Reeve Morris Stark said at a council meeting June 11 he would like to investigate the possibility of amending the existing bylaw to include all residential properties. The current bylaw includes only rental residential properties.
While campaigning for the deputy reeve chair last fall, Stark
pledged to introduce a minimum standards bylaw to clean up derelict
houses and junk cars sitting in yards in the township. His comments
drew some heat from the audience at an all-candidates meeting.
AUGUSTA A Camaro was clocked at 200 kilometres per hour on the eastbound 401 near Merwin Lane at about 4 am June 18. Grenville County OPP located and clocked the vehicle after Leeds OPP reported it travelling at an excessive rate. The vehicle was paced for a distance and eventually pulled over on Highway 416 near the Spencerville exit. A 33-year-old man from Laval, Quebec was charged with speeding, failing to wear complete seat belt assembly and failing to surrender a driver's licence. OPP Constable Jim Blanchette is the investigating officer.
SPENCERVILLE A vintage 1962 Belgian bicycle was stolen from a shed at a Spencer Street residence. OPP were called to the scene of the break, enter and theft June 16. The bicycle is dark brown/black and has very narrow tires and Flemish engravings. Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigating officer, Constable Tyler Boutilier, at 925-4221 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
AUGUSTA Charges were laid following an incident June 15 at a residence on Concession 2. Grenville County OPP were called to the residence at about 1:30 pm to investigate a landlord and tenant dispute that had reportedly escalated into an assault with a weapon. Police from Grenville and Leeds detachments searched for a suspect who left the scene on foot; the suspect was located west of Sharpe's Lane and arrested without incident.
Alexander Edward "Sandy" McArthur, 35, was charged with assault with a weapon and possession of a dangerous weapon. Constable Jason Butcher is the investigating officer.
GRENVILLE COUNTY Area residents are being reminded by police to be extra cautious when travelling on local roadways. The arrival of summer and nicer weather means more people, especially children, will be taking part in outdoor activities like biking, roller blading, skateboarding and hiking. Remember to "drive safe, drive sober."
GRENVILLE COUNTY The OPP would like to thank area residents who have reported suspicious persons or activity. "Reporting this type of activity not only protects yourself, it also protects your community," a police news release stated.
To report such activity, call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To leave an anonymous tip, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
PRESCOTT The Grenville Community Development Centre (GCDC), based in Prescott, will hold its 11th annual general meeting Wednesday, June 27 in the W.B. George Centre at Kemptville College/University of Guelph. The meeting begins at 9 am.
The meeting is an opportunity for the community to meet GCDC volunteer directors and staff, review accomplishments and consider challenges in the coming year.
The guest speaker will be Ken Durand Jr., owner and operator of Eastern Tilapia Inc., a Johnstown-area fish farm.
The mission of the community agency is job creation and long-term economic development in Grenville County. GCDC manages venture capital portfolios, assists new and existing businesses and promotes the county.
The office can be reached at 925-4275, toll free at 877-925-4275, or e-mail gcdc@recorder.ca.
By Jeff Lee - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT South Grenville High School students showcased their talents and hard work last Wednesday in the school's gymnasium.
On display were projects from the various grades and different departments for all 810 students not only see first hand but also interact with the participants so they can learn a bit more about is being accomplished by their peers.
"It's a celebration of their work from different departments this semester," said Bernie Machado, teacher and team leader of the technology department, who along with Pam Needham, organized the showcase.
Machado said not only does it allow students an avenue to display their work but it also helps to clarify in the minds of students course descriptions.
While showcases of this nature have been held at the school in the past, Machado said, this is the first time it was held during the day so students could see the work done by their peers. In the past, these types of events were held in the evening and were geared towards adults.
A cross section of different departments had student's work on displays, from English, French, art and drama to physics, woodworking computer studies.
In the Grade 11 cabinet making class, Ted Southin was in the process of putting the finishing touches on 18' Cape Charles stitch-and-tag sea kayak. He said the biggest challenge in building the kayak was following the photocopied plans, which were too difficult to read. About 70 hours has been spent on the project, at a cost of about $300.
Students James Hogan, Joel Iacurci and Jessie Bush, who each designed complete blueprints for at least a 2,400 square foot home, seemed to agree that understanding the process have applications in everyday life. For example, if they were shown plans for a home to be built, after going through the process, which involved using architect and design programs, they could understand what those plans mean.
Vice-principal Dave Corney said a committee formed from a cross section of the school's population is taking a look at ways to boost school pride, and the showcase was an idea that came from this committee.
GRENVILLE The first Grenville 4-H Family Fun Day is being planned for Sunday, June 24, at the ballpark in Eastons Corners, east of Jasper.
All Grenville 2000-2001 members, leaders, sponsors and their families are invited to join in the festivities from 11 am to 3:30 pm.
The day will involve club demonstrations from various livestock and life-skills clubs organized this spring. A potluck meal will follow at about 12:30 pm. A tug-of-war competition between clubs and games, including a county-wide unsupported circle will take place. A members and adults three-pitch baseball game will begin at 2 pm. Group cheers expressing enthusiasm for the 4-H program will also be designed by members throughout the day, and will be presented at the completion of the baseball game.
The Grenville Senior Member Organizational Committee has been planning and fundraising for the fun day since the beginning of the year. For more information, contact committee acting president Crystal Throop at 658-5391.
LOMBARDY The second Relay for Life in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville to support the Canadian Cancer Society will be held Friday, June 22 and Saturday, June 23. Relay for Life is an annual event to honour cancer survivors and to remember loved ones who have lost the fight against the disease.
In its first year in 2000, also held at the Lombardy Fairgrounds, the event raised $154,397 for the cancer society, and 2,334 luminary candles lit up the night sky.
The relay itself involves teams of 10 to 12 people who take turns walking or running around a track for 12 hours starting on the Friday evening. Last year, 646 people on 55 teams walked, ran or jogged throughout the night, and 144 cancer survivors walked the track in the opening victory lap.
At about 10 pm on June 22, luminaries will be lit in honour of those who have survived cancer or in memory of those who did not.
For more information on purchasing a luminary or registering your participation as a team, cancer survivor or sponsor, contact Mary Macintyre of the Cardinal, Augusta, Prescott, Edwardsburgh Branch of the Canadian Cancer Society at 657-3302.
Information is also available from the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Unit of the society at (613) 267-1058 or e-mail lanarklg@ccsont.org.
There will be 25 Relay for Life events across Ontario this year.
MAYNARD Another chip wagon will be allowed to operate in North Augusta this summer.
Augusta Township council gave a nod June 11 to Phil Learie to open his business at Roman's Bait and Tackle in the village. Just last month, council allowed Jeff and Lori Veltkamp to open a chip wagon in North Augusta.
Both operations are in violation of a township bylaw that requires the businesses to have a minimum 150-foot frontage. The township does not have a specific bylaw that covers the operation of chip wagons, and the business falls into the restaurant-zoning category.
Both chip wagon owners must obtain a minor variance to operate legally. In the meantime, they can carry on businesses unless there are any complaints.
Reeve George Vail cautioned the operations have to keep reasonable hours, the areas had to stay clean, and no vehicles could be parked on the county road.
"What's good for one is good for the other," Councillor Jane Fullarton commented.
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
PRESCOTT A petition calling on the town to renovate the public library has been presented to town council.
The library's Storytime Group made a presentation to council Monday night; several youngsters and program volunteers were in attendance.
"We are here tonight because we want to ensure that the library is maintained," said Christine Endicott, a library board member and storytime volunteer.
The group for young children meets once a week. "As the children enter school and grow, the library remains important in their lives, providing them with a place to do research and a place where they can keep busy and off the streets," Endicott stated.
The town has applied for SuperBuild infrastructure program funding to renovate the library. Proposed renovations to the Dibble Street municipal building might not include the library other than exterior work and some interior improvements.
Endicott indicated it is critical to renovate the library even if the town's funding request is rejected. She said the carpet on the floor of the children's room is stained and filthy and should be replaced. "Recently, the library experienced problems with flooding and with a sewer smell and these took too long to be repaired," Endicott stated.
The petition presented to council included hand prints of Storytime Group members, a hand-written letter by six-year-old Sarah Tierney, and more than 50 signatures.
The group's volunteer co-ordinator, Karen Atcheson, said the community should be proud of public places such as libraries. The group also noted the library serves people of all ages; a renovated facility with more books would be an important asset to Prescott.
"We all want to stay very proud of it," Atcheson said.
Town officials have been advised a decision on the SuperBuild funding application is not expected until late August at the earliest.
PRESCOTT Fort Wellington National Historic Site is offering a special Heritage Summer Day Camp. Children enlist to travel back in time to 1846 when the fort was occupied by the Royal Canadian Rifle Regiment members and their families.
The children will learn about the history of Canada and the Prescott area, while having fun participating in period games and activities. Crafts, cooking and period sports are all part of the experience.
Two camp sessions will be offered in response to the program's popularity in previous years. Each session runs for five days from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Session dates are July 24 to 28, and from August 7 to 11. Children age seven to 13 are eligible. Each child is responsible for providing his or her own period costume; patterns are available at the fort office. There is a registration fee.
For more information or to register, contact Jacqueline Schoemaker of Christine Brooks at 925-2896 between 10 am and 5 pm.
JOHNSTOWN A trapping program has begun after health officials confirmed a case of raccoon strain rabies.
A raccoon with porcupine quills in its face was found recently near County Road 44 north of Johnstown. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed last Thursday the raccoon was rabid.
"It is likely that the raccoon was transported from a raccoon strain rabies infected area," stated Dr. Chris Davies, Head of Wildlife Research and Development with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).
Although there have been more than 60 confirmed cases of raccoon rabies in Leeds and Grenville, most recent cases were reported in the Athens area.
In response to the finding near Johnstown, MNR is conducting a modified infection control program.
Raccoons found within close proximity to the confirmed case will be humanely euthanized, according to a Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit news release. Raccoons found within five to ten kilometres are to be trapped, vaccinated and released.
Anyone who encounters a raccoon or skunk acting strangely or posing a threat to public safety is asked to contact the health unit in Brockville at 345-5685.
Dead raccoons and skunks with no obvious cause of death or no suspected human exposure should be reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency at 342-3682.
The health unit reminds pet owners to ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies. The unit recently conducted a series of low-cost vaccination clinics.
Children should be reminded to leave wild animals alone and keep pets from running at large, it is stated in the unit's news release.
PRESCOTT There are plenty of jobs for students this summer, and a free referral service for employers is available to link the two groups.
The Prescott and Brockville human resource centres of Canada for students, in partnership with the Employment and Education Centre (EEC), kicked off Hire-A Student Week Monday morning with a flag-raising ceremony at the Prescott marina. Hire-A-Student Week is Monday, June 18 to Friday, June 22.
The special week is a province-wide initiative that aims to promote youth employment and highlight the importance of getting a first job for some students, or finding career-related work experience for others.
The Prescott centre of students and the Brockville EEC work together to connect youth and employers and provide young people with job postings, interview advice, resume building and job search strategies, explained Sarah Hough, summer employment officer at the Prescott centre.
The centre also provides employers a location to post job openings free of charge.
Employers interested in using the services and students looking for summer employment can contact the Prescott office at 925-2508, or the Brockville office at 498-2111.
The Prescott office, located at the post office building on Centre Street, offers a job bank kiosk and posted notices. For more information on the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy programs and services, call the Youth Info Line at 1-800-935-5555, or visit the Website at www.youth.gc.ca/YES.
The centres offer an extensive list of student jobs in diverse fields, on a full-time, part-time and casual basis. Among the areas of employment available are tourism, offices, parks, farms, babysitting, dog grooming, furniture moving, grounds keeping and career-related employment, such as laboratory work.
During the week, the centres are issuing a challenge to all local employers encouraging them to hire a student. For each job order an employer posts during the week, their name will be entered in a draw to win two tickets to a St. Lawrence Stage Company production.
Also as part of Hire-A-Student Week, the employment centres hosted a radio program on the Bruce Wylie Talk show on Tuesday, explaining the services and job-search tips.
A flag-raising ceremony is being held today, Wednesday, June 20, in Brockville, and on Thursday morning, June 21, a student employment information booth will be set up at the Prescott Golf Club. A similar display will be set up during the afternoon at 1000 Islands Mall, and on Friday afternoon, June 22, the group will be at the YW-YMCA.
PRESCOTT Town officials are considering a residential property tax increase in the range of five per cent.
Prescott council held the latest in a series of budget sessions Monday prior to the regular council meeting. Another meeting is set for Thursday, and a special meeting to present the town's 2001 budget is expected within the next few weeks.
Although final budget figures have not been set, council plans to adjust tax rates to come up with the $114,000 needed to maintain tax levy dollars raised last year. Treaurer Laurie Kirkby reported Monday there is an additional $49,000 required to avoid any additional tax increase.
Councillor and finance committee chair Jo-Anne Beckstead said town officials have taken as much as possible out of the budget.
Council has yet to decide how much of an additional burden will be placed on residential taxpayers.
Government policy is pushing commercial and industrial tax rates down province-wide. Municipalities are limited in how much they can increase taxes in those sectors.
The town is considering a sewer rate increase that would add $53 per year to the total bill for an average residence.
Smaller commercial clients would see an increase of about $141 per year.
PRESCOTT It is now only a matter of time before parking meters are a thing of the past in downtown Prescott.
A bylaw to have the meters removed was given first and second reading by town council and is expected to be approved at a special council meeting later this month.
The town is proposing free parking with a two-hour time limit.
Councillor Terry McConnell noted council is repealling sections of the existing bylaw and could choose to revert to them if there are problems with the new system.
"We'll do it for a year and see what happens," he said.
Proposed fines for violating the amended parking bylaw range from $3 to $40.
The town also plans to implement permit parking for the back row at the municipal parking lot at the clocktower.
Municipal officials indicated Monday they have yet to decide how much to charge for the permits.
The request to have meters removed was made several months ago by the Downtown Business Improvement Area. Getting rid of meters would help attract motorists downtown, it was argued.
The move could result in a net revenue loss to the town of at least $25,000 per year. A alrge portion of the proceeds from the parking meters had been earmarked for the town's contribution to a Brockville hospital capital fund.
SPENCERVILLE Firefighters descended upon the Spencerville Fairgrounds Saturday for a five-alarm competition.
Departments from throughout the region went head-to-head in the Eastern Ontario Firefighters' Association 89th Annual Fireman's Field Day. Events ranged from the old-fashioned, eight-man bucket brigade to five-man ladder climb.
With the exception of the bucket brigade, which had firefighters fill a drum by passing buckets of water along the brigade in the timed event, the events have an application to real-life situations.
The events are appliciable to situations firefighters face when on the job, said Edwardsburgh/Cardinal fire chief Jim Purcell. For example, the three-man ladder climb had three firefighters scramble up a ladder, with two holding it steady, help to sharp their team work and efficiency.
In all, eleven departments competed, including, Augusta, Iroquois, Kemptville, Mississippi Prescott and Beckwith, which will host the field day next year. In several events, departments entered two teams.
Mississippi Mills took first-place overall, followed by Kemptville and Augusta. Cardinal tied with Carleton Place for fifth, followed by Edwardsburgh, then Prescott.
While there is an underlying competitiveness to the day, its boils down to enjoyment of the day.
"It's all in fun," said Purcell. "We have a good time."
Purcell said he and the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Firefighters Association, which sponsored the day, were happy with the turn out.
The Mississippi fire department won eight-man international hose coupling event by default.
The New York department wasn't not able to make it up to Spencerville.
The department can compete in the same event state side in August to try and keep the trophy on Canadian soil.
The sounds of Handel's Water Music issued from a garden hose in Prescott June 11 and children learned that even though they cannot see sound, they could touch it! These experiences were part of three concert workshops provided by the Fort Town Concert Association to 300 elementary school children.
Dr. James Lebens, an international trombone player and music professor from Université Laval, Quebec, entranced and educated his young audience. They heard a piece inspired by the sight of an elephant in the zoo and were then encouraged to imagine what the trombone would sound like after being dropped into a tub of molasses. Throughout the hour-long performance, Lebens interacted with the children, not only giving them the history of his favourite instrument but the mechanics as well.
Even natural sciences became part of the presentation as Lebens produced a conch shell, talked about how it grew and then in a highly dramatic way demonstrated first how to use it to produce a sound, a louder sound, and then music by the use of the hand as a mute.
Imagination was stretched as the audience closed their eyes and went on a visit to Australia to hear the haunting sound of the digeridoo.
This ended the program but not before we all learned that the digeridoo is simply the trunk of a small eucalyptus tree hollowed out by a colony of white ants. The applause at the end of each hour was genuine. The unsolicited evaluation from the students was "awesome."
The 661 Lt. W.F. Sharpe Squadron closed this year's activities with its 44th Annual Review June 3 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre. LGen (Ret) D.M. McNaughton acted as the Reviewing Officer. The squadron paraded 50 cadets including W.O. 2 Stephenson and his nine-person band. The drill team performed for the gathered observers giving an excellent example of cadet drill. Congratulations to the drill team.
We would like to note all the dignitaries who came out to join us this year: LGen (Ret) and his wife, MGen (Ret) W. Paisley (from the Air Cadet League of Canada), Maj. W. Fox and Capt. D. Wright (from DND), Staff Sergeant Brent Hill (the detachment commander of OPP Prescott), Commissionaire Sgt. Len Carriere from the Coast Guard and Mayor Robert Lawn. The cadets had set up displays of the various activities in which they participated over the year for the guests to review. We would also like to note our appreciation to all those parents and volunteers who came out on the 3rd and who have come out regularly to help with cadet activities; we couldn't do it without you.
The cadets had one last training exercise June 3, a wilderness camp which included all interested cadets.
To the people of Prescott and surrounding communities: we the cadets, staff and sponsoring committee of 661 squadron would like to thank you for all the support you have shown us over the years.
We hope you have a great summer, and we will see you in September.
The last day of school is Tuesday, June 26.
ALGONQUIN PUBLIC SCHOOL Today a Grade 5 luncheon is being held. On Thursday, June 21, the Grade 1 students will be going to Upper Canada Village. On Monday, June 25, a parent volunteer tea will be held at 9 am.
BENSON PUBLIC SCHOOL Today is play day at the school. (Rain date is Friday). Junior Kindergarten 'B' and Kindergarten 'B' students will visit the Garden and Crysler Park Friday, June 20. The Grade 8 graduation is Monday, June 25 at the Royal Canadian Legion. Dinner starts at 6 pm.
BOUNDARY STREET PUBLIC SCHOOL Today there is a fun day at the school with various activities taking place. It is also sub day. Proceeds will go towards the Special Olympics. On Thursday, June 21, we are having a volunteer luncheon at noon to honour all of our dedicated volunteers. At 1 pm, the sports awards will be given out to our athletic students in the junior and intermediate grades. On Friday, June 22, Boundary is having a safety day for grades 4 to 6. The Coast Guard, Prescott police, firefighters, Ontario Provincial Police and St. John Ambulance will be here to instruct the students on various safety topics. We are also having a fruit drink stand set up, and all proceeds will go to the United Way. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be sold during the lunch hour, and the money will go towards our library fund. On Friday, June 22, the Grade 7 and 8 students travel to Canada's Wonderland for their year-end trip. On Monday, June 25, the grade 8 graduation dinner will he held at the Prescott Golf Club at 6 pm. Happy summer holiday!
CENTRAL PUBLIC SCHOOL Grade 8 graduation exercises will be held here Monday, June 25 at 7 pm. An appreciation assembly will be held Tuesday, June 26 at 1 pm. The primary picnic is Friday, June 22. (Rain date is Monday, June 25.) Reminder: Central school is still collecting Campbell's soup labels.
CENTENNIAL '67 NORTH EDWARDSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS On Monday, our Kindergarten students and parent volunteers visited Prehistoric World in Morrisburg. Our baseball teams participated in an invitational tournament in Iroquois Tuesday. Grade 4 to 6 students attended "Racing Against Drugs" in Brockville to learn more about healthy lifestyles. Today Grade 4 and 5 students visited the Mac Johnson conservation area and students at NEPS put on a talent show. A volunteer tea at NEPS honoured our many community helpers. This is a busy week for our Grade 8 students, with their graduation ceremony and dance in the evening Thursday, June 21, and a day trip to Toronto Friday, June 22.
MAITLAND PUBLIC SCHOOL There is a saying: "Nothing in life is free." Well, this Friday, June 22, we at Maitland school are proving just the opposite. Mr. Mozzarella (Brockville) and the Maitland Public School parent council will deliver free, yes free, pizza and soft drinks to students for lunch. Please send nutritious snacks for the remainder of the day. (If your child hasn't eaten pizza in the past, send a sandwich.)
MAYNARD PUBLIC SCHOOL Grade 6 students are going to Queen's University for sports day Thursday, June 21. The activities will include floor hockey, swimming, lacrosse, racket ball, team handball and ultimate frisbee. The Grade 7 and 8 students' year-end trip is to Montreal. On Monday, June 25, grade 8 graduation will be held at the school.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL Our greening project in the front of the school was completed over the weekend. Special thanks to parent council, DuPont Canada Inc., Leeds and Grenville Land Stewardship program, Steve Polite Sand and Gravel Ltd., Dutch Green, Mr. G. Lambert and to the small number of parents and neighbours who dedicated their time. Grade 3 St. Mark school students will visit today St. Joseph to get acquainted with the school and student program. Year books are on sale. On Friday, June 22, students will walk to St. Mark's Roman Catholic Church at 10:15 am for the final mass, and then some students will go to the Prescott pool afterwards. On Monday, June 25, a convocation ceremony will be held at St. Mark's church for Grade 8 graduates and their families. Following the ceremony, a reception will be held at the St. Mark's Parish Centre. On Tuesday, June 26, reports will be sent home. At 8 pm, Grade 8 graduates will leave Blockhouse Island in Brockville for a boat cruise. Have a safe and wonderful summer.
ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL Today our Grade 3 students enjoyed an orientation of St. Joseph school. Kindergarten play days take place today and tomorrow. On Friday, Grade 1 to 3 students will have their play day, weather permitting. Mrs. Lee's class is sponsoring a bake sale Friday, June 22 to help fund the play structure for the back yard. On Monday, June 25, students will be treated to a short dance presentation by Studio C Dance. Tuesday, June 26 is the last day of school for students. Our year will wind up with a mass at 9:30 am at St. Mark's church. Grade 3 students will be presented with a small memento of St. Mark school. Wednesday, June 27 is a professional development day for teachers. The final star in our "All Star Reading Series" went home Monday, June 18. Please practise "Nudge" with your child.
Chicken will be the hot lunch offering for this the last full week of school.
The Maitland Education and Recreation Committee is accepting applications from graduating high school students for the MERC Bursary.
The MERC Bursary is for Maitland residents who are graduating from high school this year or who graduated last year and are returning to post-secondary school this fall.
All applicants must have completed 20 hours of community service work, 10 hours of which must be in the Maitland community.
MERC awards a $100-prize to all applicants who are Ontario Scholars and additional bursaries are awarded in an amount to be determined annually.
Deadline for applications is June 30. Applications can be obtained from MERC board members or from the office of your high school. Completed applications can be returned to the MERC Bursary Selection Committee by mailing them to MERC at Box 272, Maitland, K0E 1P0.
The grand draw for the Grenville Christian College Scholarship Fund will be held live on CFJR radio with Bruce Wylie at 8:20 am June 27. Deadline for purchasing tickets is June 24.
Tickets are available all this week at 1000 Islands Mall.
The first prize winner has a choice of several first prizes including a house, $100,000 cash, a Jaguar XK8, a Hummer, or a combination of three vehicles including a Mercedes Benz XLK 320, a Jeep TJ and a Harley Davidson Fat Boy.
In 1999 the Grenville Christian College Scholarship Fund provided financial assistance to 60 students attending Grenville Christian College.
Weight Watchers in Maitland is down to its last few weeks in its first ten-week session. Meetings are held at the MERC Hall at noon on Mondays. For more information call 348-3175.
PRESCOTT St. Paul's United Church is hosting a strawberry social this Sunday, June 24 at noon.
Ham, salad and strawberry shortcake will be included on the menu.
Tickets are available at the church at George and Dibble streets.
For information, contact 925-1865.
Sorry to have had to cancel the trip to Kingston last week; not enough people registered ahead of time. Tickets for the quilt draw must be in by June 28 for the draw on June 29.
Summer is here and Walker House is air conditioned, so if you need to cool off come along and get some people together to play cards or do some crafts or even play some pool. Give me a call so the coffee or tea can be made.
Cards (bridge) is played on Monday afternoon and also Wednesday evenings. Cribbage is at 7 pm Tuesday, and euchre is played every Thursday at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome to join in; the cost is a membership to Walker House plus a small amount for prizes awarded.
Card game winners last week were: Monday bridge 1st, Betty Pillar; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; Jim Campbell won the door prize. Tuesday cribbage high hand, Louie Bocsy; high score, Eleanor Gilligan; 2nd, Myrtle Shahan; 3rd, Denise Monette. Wednesday evening bridge 1st, Sam Covey; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; Margaret Nesbitt won the door prize. Thursday euchre 1st, Jean McCrady; 2nd, Myrtle Shahan; 3rd, Jean Annable; Marie Shahan won the door prize.
Sorry to have had to cancel the trip to Kingston last week;
not enough people registered ahead of time. Tickets for the quilt
draw must be in by June 28 for the draw on June 29.
Summer is here and Walker House is air conditioned, so if you
need to cool off come along and get some people together to play
cards or do some crafts or even play some pool. Give me a call
so the coffee or tea can be made.
Cards (bridge) is played on Monday afternoon and also Wednesday
evenings. Cribbage is at 7 pm Tuesday, and euchre is played every
Thursday at 7 pm. Everyone is welcome to join in; the cost is
a membership to Walker House plus a small amount for prizes awarded.
Card game winners last week were: Monday bridge 1st, Betty
Pillar; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; Jim Campbell won the door prize. Tuesday
cribbage high hand, Louie Bocsy; high score, Eleanor Gilligan;
2nd, Myrtle Shahan; 3rd, Denise Monette. Wednesday evening bridge
1st, Sam Covey; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; Margaret Nesbitt won the
door prize. Thursday euchre 1st, Jean McCrady; 2nd, Myrtle
Shahan; 3rd, Jean Annable; Marie Shahan won the door prize.
Environmental consultant B.R. Ravishankar at an Ultramar public meeting
TIME FOR WORK, TIME FOR PLAY: Some retailers and their employees are probably still wondering what to do about the quirk in the 2001 calendar that has Canada Day falling on a Sunday. Government regulations making Monday, July 2 the statutory holiday create a dilemma: does the business that would normally be open on a Sunday close for the day a move which would allow workers to take part in Canada Day celebrations if they so choose or stay open Sunday because Monday is the holiday? In communities like Prescott where there may be a special tourism designation in place to enable retailers to open on stat holidays, the situation is different: does the business stay open Sunday, Monday, both days or neither day?
Life does not come to a screeching halt on holidays. Emergency services are not pulled off the road on stat days. Motorists still need gasoline and food. But do we need to have a clothing shop open on a stat? Then again, shouldn't the shop keeper be allowed to decide if he or she will open that day? Most people do not want governments to meddle in all aspects of our lives, but we also crave the freedom to be able to decide whether we want to try on a pair of jeans or look for a new toaster on a day the government decides is off-limits to many types of businesses. For those who would prefer to spend Boxing Day with their families and not at a mall, there are others who look forward to the bargains, even though they do not necessarily enjoy the lineups and crowds. There is always going to be a debate whether holidays with religious origins should be forced on those who would rather work or be able to access services unavailable that day. Mind you, there are some people who think you'd have to be nuts to give up a day off to which you are entitled.
When it comes to Canada Day, we hope retailers are able to offer some flexibility if a worker wants to take the day to display some national pride. The problem is workers and employers alike might not know their rights when it comes to holidays and the labour issue. Governments could probably do a better job of clearing up the confusion over statutory holidays, assuming of course that provincial and federal governments are on the same page.
We expect retailers to be open at our convenience, but we should also remember retail workers deserve a break just like the rest of us.
Tim Ruhnke
Tim Ruhnke
A recent visit to a local restaurant reminded me there might still be some work to be done to convince certain people in the business community to offer fair exchange when it comes to American money. On this occasion I was given a bill that included the total as well as its equivalent in U.S. funds. The exchange worked out to about 30 per cent, an amount that one might expect at a business located hundreds of kilometres from the border.
I believe I can relate to the frustration an American would feel when confronted by such an unfavourable exchange rate in a border community. The young attendants at a service station on Route 37 were totally unimpressed when I used Canadian money to pay for a small purchase of gasoline. They were even more underwhelmed when I returned moments later to get two American quarters so I could put some air in a car tire. Their calculations indicated I would have to shell out 81 or 82 cents Canadian, meaning my two minutes of "air time" cost me 60-plus per cent more than if I had waited to deal with the tire on Canadian soil.
I guess I should have been thankful I did not have to purchase any major car-related items at that business. However, the bad taste resulting from the "exchange" at that service station remains months later.
Neither Canadians nor Americans should be penalized for the status of their country's dollar. As much as many businesses on both sides of the border are offering fair exchange rates, those that do not could be hurting their colleagues and their communities, not to mention their own bottom lines. Being fair might cost a little at the time, but in the end it's good business!
***
Speaking of business, it seems the number two cola on Planet Earth (the one which supposedly is not the real thing) has come up with yet another "twist" by creating a variation that includes lemon. The same company's popular green drink (the one which in Canada does not include caffeine) is now available in red. That's right, a splash of cherry flavour!
What will the soft drink companies come up with next? These new products come at a time when the industry has become such a big business. They have already gobbled up big-name iced tea and juice companies. The number two cola owns or controls or has a stake in several fast food chains and a major snack food manufacturer. Those familiar with the so-called cola wars are aware of the influence these bottlers have had on cultures throughout the world.
But I digress. Lemon cola and cherry dew are probably here for a limited time. Drink up now and prepare for the next round of soft drink concoctions. I know it's junk, but I'm hooked. Cha-ching!
John A.H. Morris
We are still in favour of renovating the present municipal building as opposed to abandoning it to the wrecker's ball and building a new facility. We are not carving this decision in stone, however, because further studies and building grant applications may prove a new building the better option.
Council has to take its initiative back into the barn and this time come out with the horse in front of the cart. Before the town can decide what it wants in the way of municipal building facilities, it has to decide what it can afford.
Those of us who have built or renovated homes, stores or plants know exactly how much we can afford to spend on such projects and then we seek out builders, explain our needs, tell them the extent of our budget, and then let them work within those guidelines. If our expectations are reasonable we are usually assured of finding a contractor who can work within our guidelines and usually improve upon our ideas and suggestions.
This is to be expected as contractors and builders are doing this every day while the rest of us (present mayor and councillors included) might tackle such a project once in a lifetime, if that.
Let's put a cap of $750,000 on the renovation plan and have the town's present consultant work on such specifications, and if he can't do it, let's find someone who can, preferably a local taxpayer who is aware of just how poor Prescott is with its present tax base.
The Prescott Public Library's expansion plans can be put on hold for the time being. In fact, we cannot see paying over $400,000 for a facility that right now can only afford to be open about 25 hours a week. Perhaps it is time to seriously consider a joint venture library at South Grenville District High School that could serve both high school and elementary school students as well as the general public.
And $100,000 for a parking lot and landscaping!!?!
Get real!
Does each car that parks at the municipal building have to have its own, full-grown oak tree for shade, beauty and rest? And you know, persons inside the building, when they want to look out and check the status of their SUVs and pick-ups will be able to see out of windows with vinyl or aluminum frames every bit as well as through windows with expensive, high-maintenance wooden frames.
***
If you are curious as to where Grenville County and its metro areas such as Prescott are located on the Ontario government's grantmaking totem pole, don't look skyward or even at ground level, 'cause you will find neither town nor county above the ground level.
This information is provided by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the Ontario government slush fund that supplies, from its charitable casinos, grants to various provincial groups. This year the foundation has allocated approximately $7.6 million to non-profit organizations in Ottawa, and the counties of Prescott-Russell, Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Renfrew, for their initiatives in arts and culture, recreation, environment, human and social services and sports and recreation.
To toot its own horn about this largesse, Trillium is hosting a Town Hall Meeting in Ottawa this week but, as their press release indicates, most Eastern Ontario counties are invited to attend and praise the Tories and learn about funding guidelines for next year, with the exception of Leeds and Grenville.
We are told it is just sour grapes on Prescott's behalf to complain about these grants and to not be satisfied with the non-functioning sewage treatment plant that the PCs have given us in lieu of a charitable casino, a palatial provincial jail, or a grant to help refurbish the Forwarders' Museum. Ungrateful us!
***
We know that Stockwell Day cannot cut it as champion of the Canadian Right. We should remind ourselves that Joe Clark is still the same Joe Clark who led the federal Tories into near-oblivion a short eight months ago; and although some think Clark is an ideal candidate to lead Canada's right-wing faction, it must be remembered that he has always been, and always will be, a left-handed shot.
We are surprised the political pundits as well as the Reform and Tory parties have not started to tout Alberta Premier Ralph Klein as the ideal person to unite the right and pose a real threat to the ongoing rule of the Liberals. We think Klein made a move in this direction earlier this month when he appeared before the powerful and influential U.S. Senate to discuss the present North American energy crisis.
He made a good impression on the U.S. Senators, who we all know favour a small 'c' Canadian government. Instead of When Irish Eyes are Smiling echoing through the White House, maybe George W. will welcome a Canadian prairies rendition of Home, Home on the Range.
The Editor;
'P' is for parking meters, something about which, although my store is not downtown anymore, I still sympathize with the reasons for their announced removal. The alternate manner in which the town has proposed to regulate the parking sounds fair enough to me. We can only hope this change comes not too late for our downtown's survival.
'P' is for penny, another subject dear to my heart. They have been absent from my cash drawer for several years now, and the two-dollar coins fit very conveniently in their place. The length of time pennies have been of no use, even for the parking meters, is clear evidence that the penny's time has passed!
'P' is for Prescott, at least that is what they tell us it means when we see it on our town garbage bags.
It is regrettable that some of the garbage removal personnel seem to have difficulty comprehending this, and as recently as last pickup have left behind a bag at our house, with the 'P' in p-lain view. However, the dog or raccoon which tore up the bag later during that day did not care what letter was on the bag.
'P' is for pavement. It is reassuring to see so much new pavement in town, including at two new north end gas stations. Now if only someone would follow this example by fixing Churchill Road. Even a scrape and one new layer would go a long way on a short budget, and just one drive along there would easily show others why so many of the residents 'serviced' by Churchill Road might view this issue as more important than the final outcome of our town hall controversy.
'P' is for 'Paralysis-cott', a pet name for our town, made popular by some of us who must speculate about when high-speed Internet services will become available here. We have not been offered any ETR (Eventual Time of Respect) by Bell nor the Cable TV company, and the continuing barrage of promotional TV ads on the city stations only aggravates our 'Download Rigor-Mortis'. If you've ever tried high-speed Internet at a friend's place, even as near as Brockville, you'll love the difference! Vic, what is your latest update on this topic?
'P' is for partial, referring to the still incomplete signage at our Edward and Churchill intersection, southbound lanes. We need to have lane direction signs hanging overhead at the traffic lights, in addition to the current signs at the roadside. And 'P' is for the partial illumination of the sign on the temporary (or perhaps p-ermanent would be just fine?) town offices building, also located at that intersection.
'P' is for our PUC, which is now part of the new Rideau St. Lawrence Utilities, and our p-ower is still on.
'P' is for panic. Bob Lawn and Walter Hofmann no doubt experienced this recently. It is comforting to hear that they are on the mend.
'P' is for politics. If we had less of that, we would likely have more progress!
Thanks also on behalf of others.
David Lewis, Owner, Prescott Computing
The Editor;
It appears that the Upper Canada District School Board is at it again and have made it known to CUPE that they intend to reduce the weekly hours worked by educational assistants, down from 32.5 to 30 per week.
Not only does this contravene the collective agreement that they just signed last year, but it further penalizes those students who need the most help.
For the record, educational assistants work with all challenged students, whether that be mental or physical in nature. Why is this board so bent on hurting those who need the most assistance?
The board recently announced that they were going to significantly reduce the overall allotted hours of educational assistants as a "cost savings" and now this latest move to reduce their established work week hours. All parents need to stand up and take notice of this and remember it is your tax dollars, not the board's! While we are on the subject of "cost savings," have the directors of this board looked inward, or in the mirror?
This board is out of touch with reality and perhaps if the directors (all of them) were to spend more time in the schools and less in their "ivory towers," then they might have an actual appreciation for what is happening.
I would urge all parents to stand up and fight these moves. The educational assistants add real value to the education system, through their work with all challenged students, work that others within the system will not or cannot do. They also perform duties such as bus duty, yard duty and numerous other tasks as assigned to them, without fail.
It is time to "stop the madness," before students who need help begin to fall through the cracks.
Jeff Baldwin, Cardinal
The Editor;
On Thursday, June 14, I attended a concert at Benson Public School in Cardinal. The concert, based on an integrated learning unit about Canada, involved students from JK to Grade 3 and it was everything that a concert should be!
A great deal of work by the teachers had obviously gone into the planning of the concert which co-ordinated music, art (the children made their own props), public speaking, and dance. The students appeared to have learned a great deal about Canada and were enjoying presenting their excellent program.
However, the audience was not quiet for the presentation. A man who sat directly behind me talked out loud throughout the concert. His small son also talked throughout the concert (but what else would I expect - children learn by example).If that wasn't rude enough, he then played a tape recorder with children's songs while the concert was going on. It was impossible for any of us nearby to hear any child's individual speaking part. I am angry to think that one man spoiled a wonderful concert for so many people.
We often hear people say that in today's society children don't show respect. Let's give our students respect by listening to their performances and they will, in turn, learn to show respect to each other and to adults.
Lynn Barkley, North Channel Road
P.S. The man in question was never one of my students.
By Jeff Lee - Journal Staff Writer
SPENCERVILLE The Ontario Municipal Board (OMB) has rejected a Ventnor-area farmer's expansion plans for a hog barn.
Gerald Kamenz, who runs a 2,000 head hog barn where he raises replacementbreeding stock, had opposed an interim bylaw that prevented him from expanding his barn on a cement pad which had been built for the barn last year.
A survey unearthed that the layout of the pad was judged to violate minimum separation distances between the barn and neighbouring homes.
Kamenz can build within the minimum separation distance, but not on the portion that is in violation of the distance.
In the meantime, Kamenz stated the bylaw does allow him to build a new barn to house 1,000 hogs but not complete a barn with a much smaller size.
Kamenz appealed to the OMB arguing the interim control bylaw does not meet planning act requirements, and there has been bad faith in its passing by the municipality.
On June 8, OMB board member Norman Jackson ruled the interim bylaw "technically" meets the requirements of the planning act. The Journal acquired a copy of the OMB report Monday night at Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council.
"A resolution directing a planning study was passed prior to the passing of the Interim Control By-law." the OMB report stated.
Jackson also stated the board was more concerned with allegations of bad faith stemming from the changes in the bylaw, the statement the bylaw would not proceed and the delay in third reading.
He ruled there was no bad faith towards Kamenz from the changes in the bylaw.
"Delay in the readings and amendments are not in this case as a result of a race to the swift to stop a proposed development," Jackson stated his ruling.
"On the contrary, the actions of the municipality and its officials have been to co-operate with the appellant."
Jackson's ruling continued by stating prior to the April 17, 2000 meeting, Kamenz had been notified.
The following day, he was also given a building permit for the new barn, which was conditional on a survey to be submitted prior to construction.
His survey showed a setback deficiency, but he was permitted to revise the plan and build within the revisions. He was refused a permit to expand the barn after the passing of the interim control bylaw.
"Any delay between second and third reading, although significant in time, was a result of an attempt to avoid a final passing of the interim control bylaw through the alternative of a nutrient management bylaw," Jackson ruled.
Two neighbours testified against the barn expansion. Edward Donskersteeg, the former owner of the Kamenz property, stated the concern is not larger barns but the byproducts of the use.
Stan Reid, whose located about 530 metres from the Kamenz barn, was one of the appellants when the Kamenz variance went to the OMB. He was seeking a specific nutrient management plan with enforcement.
CARDINAL Most retail employees in Cardinal won't have to miss the party and celebrations planned for Canada Day Sunday, July 1.
With Canada Day falling on a Sunday this year, the Retail Business Holidays Act requires merchants to close up shop Monday, July 2. Canada Day is one of eight days annually when most stores must be closed. Since many Cardinal businesses are already closed Sundays, they will shut down for both days.
A random polling of merchants in Cardinal indicated those to be closed both days are VanCamp Freshmart, Vanguard Drug Mart, Mad Macs Furniture and Appliances, Shanly Pro Hardware and General Dollar. The liquor store will remain open as usual Sunday, but close Monday.
And the events lined up for Canada Day (Sunday) in Cardinal are sure to please all age groups. All activities take place at the Royal Canadian Legion building and surrounding park area.
Already on tap for the day is a breakfast beginning at 8 am and kids' races sponsored by the Cardinal Lions Club begin at 10 am. The Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Fire Department will stage a demonstration at 11 am, and a fish pond and face painting also start at 11 am. A magician is expected to arrive at 1 pm.
The Cardinal Girl Guides are sponsoring a barbecue from noon to 7 pm, euchre starts at 1 pm, and a dance is scheduled to begin at 4 pm.
Prizes will be awarded every hour for those who purchase a Canada Day button. A Hawaiian deck party is also planned. A children's fishing derby will run all day, with a weigh-in between 3 and 4 pm.
CARDINAL A quantity of packaged marijuana, marijuana plants and drug paraphernalia was seized from a residence on East Street in Cardinal Monday evening.
Officers from the Prescott detachment of Grenville OPP, Kingston OPP Drug Enforcement Unit, Brockville Police Service/Leeds and Grenville Joint Forces Unit, and the East Region Canine Unit executed a search warrant at the home at about 8:47 pm.
Earl Halladay, 39, of Cardinal, is charged with one count of possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking, one count of production of a controlled substance and one count of failure to comply with an undertaking/recognizance. He was transported to Brockville Jail where he was held pending a bail hearing Tuesday at Ontario Court - Criminal Division in Brockville.
Angela Halladay, 38, of Cardinal, is charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking. She is scheduled to appear in Ontario Court July 27.
The couple's five children, ranging in age from four years to 16 years, were present in the residence, according to an OPP news release. Two other men at the residence were not charged.
The investigating officer is Constable Chuck Doran of Grenville County OPP. Anyone with information concerning this crime or any other crime can contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or 925-4221.
A group of citizens interested in forming a Community Police Association of some type met at the municipal building in Cardinal June 13. Present were representatives from wards one and two.
Those interested from ward three were unable to attend but have clearly indicated a willingness to take part in a township-wide association. Also in attendance was OPP officer Cindy MacDonald.
This is not a council committee. It is purely citizen generated. One of the services provided by the committee has been the organization of Neighbourhood Watch.
The Village of Cardinal had a Citizens Police Association prior to amalgamation, as did Spencerville. Johnstown has the South Edwardsburgh Recreation Association and it organizes the Neighbourhood Watch program in that community. Cardinal's was organized by the Community Police Association. Officer MacDonald advised those present that steps should be taken to retrieve all Neighbourhood Watch signs from residences. It was agreed by all that the OPP organize the campaign to collect the old signs. Officer MacDonald advised that cadets would most likely go door to door to accomplish this.
On a less positive note, it was extremely disheartening to discover on Sunday (the 17th) morning that the previous night vandalism took place within the village of Cardinal. Downtown businesses had windows broken and the skateboard ramps behind the municipal building were shattered beyond safe use as the supporting structures were bashed out of them.
What I also saw were two very disappointed youths walking through the debris of the skateboarding equipment. They had no idea as to who had done this. This equipment had been repaired by ratepayers and put into use not much more than three weeks ago.
It eludes me as to why someone would want to simply break windows and destroy recreational equipment. What would be newsworthy would be having those responsible come forward with apologies and money or assistance to repair the damage they have done. I'm sure it would surprise the business owners as well as the young people who use the skateboarding equipment.
CARDINAL The Cardinal Community Police Association is up and running again, but this time with a twist: it will be a township-wide organization.
The Cardinal volunteer association had been strong and active for about 13 years, but following amalgamation between the village and Edwardsburgh Township in January, it was decided to involve the entire area, explained Councillor Peggy Taylor.
Grenville OPP Senior Constable Cindy MacDonald, responsible for community services and media relations, said the association is a group of "fabulous and dedicated people" who are involved in the community and the schools. The members act as a liaison between the police and community, bringing forth any concerns, she noted.
Someone who doesn't feel comfortable talking to the police directly could speak with an association member, MacDonald said. Crosswalks, parking and community safety zone signs, bullying, neighbourhood watch and block parenting programs are all areas where the concerned citizens could be involved, she said.
"They're the eyes and ears of the community," MacDonald said. "They care about kids. It's been a fantastic thing. They've done a lot for the community, and not many people are aware of it. They've done an awesome job."
Members have also assisted in organizing events for the annual Cardinal Labour Day festival
Taylor noted the group is not a committee of council, but said she will assist in any way possible.
An association meeting will be held Wednesday, July 18 at 7 pm at the Cardinal municipal building for anyone interested in joining the group.
CARDINAL The Ontario Office of the Terry Fox Foundation is seeking an energetic and enthusiastic person to lead a committee of volunteers in the organization of a Terry Fox Run in Cardinal, to be held Sunday, Sept. 16.
The run is separate from the annual Great Ride and Stride for Cancer spearheaded by Peggy Taylor that takes place each Labour Day weekend in Cardinal. That event has raised about $9,000 since its inception two years ago.
The new volunteer position requires strong leadership skills, the ability to delegate and a desire to work with other volunteers, Kim Smith, community events organizer for the Terry Fox Foundation, stated in a press release.
The organizer's responsibilities would include recruiting new members to the committee, facilitating monthly planning meetings, ensuring a safe route for the run, distributing promotional materials throughout the community and overseeing donations of items such as food and beverages. A similar event is organized each year in Prescott by Sharon Spychi.
Terry Fox's legacy, which now totals more than $270 million for innovative cancer research, has contributed to the impressive advances made in cancer research, Smith stated.
For more information on becoming involved in the annual run, contact Smith at 1-888-836-9786. Contact Taylor at 657-1728 to assist in the Ride and Stride.
MORRISBURG It has been four decades since Upper Canada Village first opened its gates to the world with a day of pomp and ceremony.
Forty years later to the day, this Sunday, June 24, the village will once again be celebrating in a big way. This time, with a commemorative parade, official ceremonies, an anniversary exhibit unveiling, entertainment and games.
The festive "40 and Unforgettable" event will kick off at 11:30 am with the unveiling of a special anniversary exhibit at the entrance to the village. The exhibit consists of four display panels depicting the evolution of the landmark site with photos, mementoes and other highlights since its opening in 1961.
The main draw for the day will be a commemorative parade at 1:30 pm, showcasing more than 40 entries from community partners who have supported the village over the past four decades.
Crysler Hall, an impressive neo-classical mansion, will set the stage for the official ceremonies at 2:30 pm. Other activities include old-fashioned games, as well as free anniversary cake and lemonade at 3 pm.
Admission rates for adults and children for the one day only have been set at 1961 prices to help everyone enjoy the 1860s experience. Children four and under are admitted free.
The events take place rain or shine. For more information, call 1-800-437-2233.
CARDINAL St. John's United Church is hosting a special evening of gospel music with Tom Wilson and Border Bluegrass this Sunday, June 24.
The event, sponsored by the choir, begins at 7:30 pm and will be followed by homemade strawberry shortcake in the church hall.
Call 925-5428 for ticket information.
CARDINAL The annual Cardinal Fish and Game Club small mouth bass derby will be held Saturday, June 30 and Sunday, July 1.
Weigh-ins are at the Legion boat dock both days from 11:30 am to noon and from 7:30 to 8 pm.
Tickets are available from the MacEwen gas bar in Johnstown, Mustard Variety in Iroquois, Pro Hardware and Rona Hardware in Cardinal and from John Dugan Sr.
SPENCERVILLE The annual cemetery service for Union Cemetery in Spencerville will be held this Sunday, June 24 at the cemetery, with Doug Warren as guest speaker. The service begins at 2:30 pm.
In case of rain, the service will be held in Spencerville United Church.
MORRISBURG Upper Canada Playhouse opened its Season of Laughter last week with the comedy My Darling Judith. It runs until June 30.
The show is the story of a business tycoon who wants to divorce his wife and forces his bumbling employee to help him win the court case. My Darling Judith played to sold-out audiences 13 years ago when the Playhouse operated out of a tent.
Artistic Director Donnie Bowes appeared in the original Playhouse production and directs this show. Rona Waddington plays the title role.
Performances are Tuesday through Saturday at 8 pm with matinees on Wednesdays and Sundays at 2 pm. For tickets and information call the box office at (613) 543-3713. Group and senior rates are available.
PRESCOTT A children's environmental camp to explore and experience the outdoors while having fun will be held in South Grenville this summer for the first time.
Children age six to 11 will be able to attend a day camp at the South Grenville Environmental Centre on Barton Road from July 9 to 13. Previously, the camps were only available at centres in Kemptville or Brockville.
The Prescott camp will help children discover their connection with living things and promote environmental awareness. Activities involve crafts, hiking, orienteering, singing, drama, field trips, native games and a barbecue. Staff from the Eastern Ontario Biodiversity Museum in Kemptville will also be available.
The environmental centre is located on 177 acres of crown land north of Prescott, and was built in partnership between the Grenville Land Stewardship Council and South Grenville District High School.
For more information or to register, contact Jack Henry at the stewardship council at 342-8528, or Andrea Howard at 258-3415.
BROCKVILLE Prescott native Marjorie Bernier was inducted into the Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame Friday, June 15 in Brockville.
Bernier (nee Seargeant) was one of five 2001 inductee, which included NHLer Rusty Crawford, who was born in Cardinal Nov. 7,1885, Crawford is already in the Hockey Hall of Fame, Ron Hungerford, who leaves a legacy in cross-country and track and field, Hank Lammens, a Finn sailor who is in the Canadian Amateur Sports Hall of Fame and Bill Tooker, who has officiated rowing at the national and international levels.
At the Kinsmen Sports Awards Dinner Thursday at CJ's Banquet Hall, Bernier, who set Canadian, Olympic and World records, as a one-armed swimmer, said that hearing the news she was going to be inducted in the Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame brought back her memories of her days swimming that had long drifted away.
"It's exciting to be inducted into the hall of fame," Bernier said.
Bernier said the is very little difference from disabled- and able-bodied athletes.
"They just bend the rules a little bit," she said.
Bernier said she was reminded of how she had to get up at 6 am to be at the pool, then head over to the high school by 9 am.
She said she didn't know what was tougher, swimming at 6 am or getting her four daughters - Stephanie, Rachelle,Sarah and Alexandra - ready for school in the morning.
Rusty Crawford, who died Dec. 19, 1971, is remembered as a fast skating forward with a left-handed shot.
He was a capable of playing at centre or either wing with equal dexterity.
His talent attracted the Quebec Bulldogs, and he joined them for the 1912-1913 season, helping them win the Stanley Cub. This game was his greatest single accomplishment when in the final game of the series against Toronto, a game that lasted 112 minutes, Crawford was not only scored the winning goal but also was on the ice for the entire duration of the game.
The under-14 Prescott Gunners lost to the strong Division 1 leading Blazers 6-0 Monday June 11 in Cornwall.
Playing with only two spares on the bench the Gunners performed well in the first half of the game. Trailing by only 2-0 at this time was an accomplishment as the Gunners continuously frustrated the Blazers with solid defensive play. Full backs Ronica Mazur, Nicole King, Brittanie Orr and Krista Payne stepped up several times to put the Blazer strikers off-sides.
In the second half, the Blazers simply out-lasted the Gunners and scored four more goals to put the game away. The Gunner's will need to find some offensive punch as they hosted the third-place team from Carleton Place Monday, June 18 at 7 pm.
BROCKVILLE Centennial '67 Public School had a strong showing at the peewee elementary track and field meet June 14 at Thousand Islands Secondary School.
Ansley Keleman won first in the 200-metre dash, and picked up a third-place ribbon in the 800-metre run and fifth in the 400-metres. Teammate Christine Lawson finished sixth in the event.
Centennial's Megan Marion finished second in the high jump event and fifth in the Long jump.
Megan Calwell took second place in the softball throw. Alison Lethbridge finished behind her teammate in third.
The Centennial 4 x 100 relay team finished fourth.
Grenville Christian College athlete Leslie Ann Walker finished sixth in the 60-metre dash.
In the boys division, Centennial's Warren Pinder finished fourth in the 100-metre dash. Teammate Adam Saya finished fourth in the high jump and fifth in the 200-metre dash.
Overall Centennial tied with St. Francis Xavier for fifth spot. GCC finished in ninth.
PRESCOTT In the under-6 division, Playit Star beat Prescott Chiros 7-3 June 16. Star's goals were scored by Andrew Moulton (4) and John Lawless (3). Holy Jones scored all three Chiros' goals.
Grenville Fish and Game played Beck's Construction to a 1-1 tie. Grenville's Neil Hubbard scored, while Alex Boswall scored.
Tichborne Auto Supply stoned Lanes Smoke Shop 5-0. Devon Degray scored three and Morgan Marshall two.
Star Security beat Brent Scott Insurance 3-1. Scoring for Scott's was split three ways: Patrick Purcell, Brianna Harnum and Matthew Douglas. Paul Dejong scored.
Beck's Construction beat Tichborne 4-2. Alex Boswall scored two and Stephanie Todd one. Maxwell Daku and Devon Degray scored for Tichborne.
Grenville played Star Security to a 1-1 tied. Grenville's Kirk Hubbard and Christian Zahn scored.
Playit Star robbed Brent Scott Insurance of the win. Playit won 2-1. Andrew Moulton and John Lawless scored. Alex Modler scored for Brent Scott.
On June 12, in under-8 play, Tropical Pools dunked DBL Computing 5-1. Scoring for Tropical were Megan Graham, Richard Champagne, each with two, and Jamie Sturgeon with one. Josh Bailey scored for his team.
Hometown Heating beat Grenville Pharmacy 6-1. Scoring two goals each were Ryan Van Stralen, Brett Van Stralen and Lukas Henderson. Jesse Boyd scored for Grenville.
Playit Star beat Prophet's Trophies 4-1. Richard Joudoin, Nathaniel Arnill and Samuel Cleary all scored [sic]. Tyson Lefebvre scored.
Windmill Web Spiders beat Prescott IDA 4-3. Devin Lebrum scored two. Michael Lawless and Payton Marriner each scored one. IDA's Austin Murphy and Amber Warren each scored.
On June 14, Prescott IDA lost to Colour Pallette 5-3. IDA's Austin Murphy scored three, while Pallette's Trent Corney, Cody Somers, Bradley Burton and Phillip Biccum each scored singles.
Windmill Web Spiders drubbed DBL Computing 8-0. Devon Lebrun scored six, while Michael Lawless scored two.
SLP Printing Devils lost to Hometown Heating 5-2. Ryan Van Stralen and Lukas Henderson each scored two, Ronnie Harrison scored one.
Under-10
On June 12, Mac's beat TD Bank 8-1. Chucky Gamble scored three and Megan Colwell netted two. Singles went to Chad McAuley, Robbie Deeks and Jason Deeks. Sean Perrin scored for TD.
Splash beat Home Hardware 4-3. Splash's Scott Stephenson scored two. Singles went to Ian King and Julian Goodman. Hardware's Mason Amell scored two and Cody Patenaude scored one.
Kiwanis beat Bank of Montreal 3-1. Mike Thomas scored three. Matthew Suatac scored one.
Kinsmen beat Becker's 4-1. Jesse Hylan scored three. Singles went to Andrew Berkhard and Chris Rice.
Hansen Cavity Kickers beat Royal Bank 2-1. Braeden Smith and Zachary Campbell each scored.
Kinsmen beat Montreal 6-1. Jesse Hylan and Andrew Berkhard each scored two. Lindsey Francis and Chris Rice scored singles.
Royal Bank and Splash tied 2-2. Bank's Kenzie Hennessy and Bradley Carrierre each scored. Ben Hutton scored.
Becker's beat Mac's 2-1. Chad McAuley and Megan Colwell each scored. Kailee Byers scored for Becker's.
Beach Home Hardware nailed a 4-2 win over Kiwanis. Cody Patenaude scored three, Mason Amell one. Mike Thomas and Jordan Collette each scored one.
Under-12
On June 11, Star beat Freer Electric 3-2. Shay Warren scored two and Jordan Grootjans one. Jacob Temple scored for Freer.
Techcan Titans beat the Shriners 5-1. Singles went to Mike Jolleymore, Jordan Dunlop, Johanathen Largy, Nick Perry and Samuel Valkenier-Brown.
Samantha Rennick scored for the Shriners.
Kriska beat Giant Tiger 1-0 Johanathan Arcand scored.
DWJ Plumbing Pythons beat Seaway IDA 3-1. Hank Heykoop scored two. Kyle Towe scored one. Kristian Knapp scored one.
On June 13, the Shriners beat Kriska 3-2.
Joel Haystead scored three. Clayton Dunnington two.
Freer Electric beat Seaway IDA 2-1. Curtis Biccum and Janet Greenhorn both scored. Kristian Knapp scored one.
Under-16
June 11, Kriska and Playit went to a 4-4 tie. Kriska's Aaron Lavallee scored two. Evan Lavallee and Mitchel McNairn each scored one. Playit's Nick Gould scored two. Ashley Barker and Melissa Glock each scored one.
On June 13, Playit Star beat Gateway Packaging. Singles went to Matt Deeks, Chad Hyland and Logan Gillard. Johanathon Macintosh scored one.
PRESCOTT The Prescott Lawn Bowling Club recently hosted the annual Hiram Walker Mixed Pairs tournament.
The trophy winner team of the June 13 tournament was a team from Ottawa, with skip Elmer Janzen and lead Dave Smith.
The one-game high went to the Prescott team of lead Susie Locke and skip Eric Reid.
The two-game high was won by the Smith Falls team of Myles Shurtliff and Dorothy McDonnell.
Area clubs competed in the tournament and included Elmdale, Kemptville, Iroquois, Smiths Falls and Brockville.
Members of the Prescott Lawn Bowling Club competed in the Fulford Ladies Triple tournament, hosted by the Brockville Lawn Bowling Club June 16.
The team of lead Toni Jansman, vice-skip Susie Locke and skip Irene St. John won the one-game high.
The next tournament to be hosted by the Prescott club will be the Rose Bowl Wednesday, July 4.
On June 12, Prescott emerged victorious with a score of 10-8 against Williamsburg.
With a short squad of only 8 players, Prescott got base hits from Mason Williams, Tyson Wilson, and Nathan Denneboom. Scoring for Prescott was Williams, Cory Todd, Wilson, Zach Fleming, Jamie Fleming and Nathan Denneboom. Wilson pitched for the win.
In the June 13 game against Morrisburg Prescott was beat 10-6 by Morrisburg. Ryan Todd, Cory Wilson, Jared McGeough, Nick Beatty, and Jamie Fleming were able to score for Prescott by getting to base on balls and stealing their way home. Mason Williams was the starting pitcher with McGeough finishing the game.
The June 15 game against Morrisburg Prescott fell to Morrisburg 8-1. Ryan Maggio and Nick Beatty had base hits, but the lone run for Prescott was by Zach Fleming. Some nice defensive plays were made to keep Morrisburg scoreless early on, but a home run in the third inning awakened the Morrisburg bats. Jared McGeough and Tyson Wilson were solid on the mound.
Ryan Todd and Josh Pitt were catching well behind the plate.
SHANLY On Tuesday, June 12, North Edwardsburgh Public School hosted a six-school primary track and field meet.
Having perfect weather conditions for the day, more than 220 athletes competed in events such as the 60-metre, 100-metre, 400-metre, and 1000-metre running events, high jump, running long jump, softball throw, and standing long jump.
This is the first time NEPS has hosted this event, and judging from comments from spectators, athletes and meet organizers, the day was a success. Competing schools were Central, Maitland, Algonquin, Front-of-Yonge, Oxford-on-Rideau and North Edwardsburgh.
The athlete medals were awarded to Josh Pitt from NEPS and Becky Matthie from Algonquin Public.
The championship trophy was won by NEPS. Algonquin Public took home the consolation trophy.
Algonquin Public lent NEPS their high jump mat. It was appreciated as were the many volunteers and parents who helped at the different events, the canteen, score keeping, just to name a few duties they performed to make this day possible for all the children who participated.