| 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 |
HOME | NEWS
| EDITORIALS | CARDINAL
| SPORTS | OBITUARIES
| ARCHIVES | CLASSIFIED
BACK ISSUES | PUBLISHING
INFO | ST. LAWRENCE PRINTING
CO. LTD. |LINKS
PRESCOTT Town council will hold a special meeting next Tuesday, July 4, at 7 p.m., when it is expected to pass its 2000 budget. Clerk-administrator Andrew Brown said council's committee of the whole held a meeting Monday night and discussed ways to further pare costs. The town is receiving $161,000 less in provincial funding this year and has to fund additional joint services such as land ambulance, he noted.
Council also decided to call a public meeting for July 10 about putting the casino question on the ballot in November. "It's not up to council to make a decision on a casino, they just have to decide whether to have it on the ballot," Brown explained.
PRESCOTT The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce is planning a Thousand Islands Moonlight Cruise on Saturday, July 15 from 7 to 10 p.m. The cruise is open to everyone. Food and beverages will be available. The boarding will take place at Blockhouse Island in Brockville. Tickets are limited to 100, so anyone interested is urged to purchase tickets early from TD Bank, Royal Bank or Mike Boyles.
PRESCOTT The annual Shakespeare in the Park performance this year will be held on Friday, July 7 starting at 8:30 p.m. This year, Montreal's Reper-cussion Theatre will perform A Comedy of Errors. Funded by the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce and other donors, the play will be performed on a stage to be set up in the Fort Wellington field, with spectators bringing their own lawn chairs.
PRESCOTT The M/V Canadian Empress and the Nantucket Clipper both have plenty of visits to Prescott planned this year.
The Empress, operated by St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, is scheduled to make visits on June 28 at 4 p.m., July 2 at 2:15 p.m., July 10 at 4 p.m., July 13 at 2:30 p.m., July 21 at 4 p.m. and July 24 at 2:15 p.m. The ship also plans to dock in the Fort Town on Aug. 1, 5, 13, 16, 20 and 24, as well as Sept. 1, 4, 12, 14, 22 and 25, and Oct. 3, 6, 14, 17 and 25.
The Nantucket Clipper also has many scheduled stops in Prescott for the summer 2000 season: June 29 at 8 a.m., July 2 at 6:30 p.m., Aug. 10 at 8 a.m., Aug. 13 at 6:30 p.m., Aug. 24 at 8 a.m. and Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m.
The Clipper and its passengers will spend one night in Prescott on each of its visits this summer.
By CHRISTINE ENDICOTT - Journal Editor
PRESCOTT An overwhelming majority of people favour renovating the present town hall instead of building a new structure, according to the results of surveys handed in at Thursday's town meeting.
On Tuesday, Dan Throop , chairman of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce's meeting organizing committee, released the results of the survey taken at the meeting Thursday night. About 600 people attended the meeting, and 502 completed surveys and deposited them in ballot boxes, Throop reported.
The results show that 72 per cent 361 people chose the option "Take care of our current assets (renovate Dibble Street)" over the other listed options, including a new building on the clock tower square or the vacant Daniels Hotel lot, rebuilding on the present Dibble Street lot, creating a strategic plan before making the decision, or other ideas, including John Reynolds' suggestion to purchase a ship to use as a town hall, hotel and tourist attraction.
Reynolds' speech was one of the most animated of the five given during the meeting, held at the Kinsmen Outdoor Amphitheatre. Mayor Doug Hayes spoke about council's choice of building at the parking lot by the clock tower, while Craig Bowers made an argument in favour of renovating the present structure. Marc Cardinal advocated building on the vacant Daniels Hotel lot, and organizer Dan Throop spoke in favour of creating a long-term plan for the town before deciding on a town hall location.
Throop explained that the meeting's purpose was "to help councillors make the decisions we want them to make." The mayor and several councillors sat in the audience, along with the architect hired for the project.
Hayes was scheduled to speak first but immediately requested to speak last instead. "Sorry, Doug, but it's set," Throop replied.
So the mayor began a speech to explain council's decision and, several minutes later, was interrupted by Throop, who asked the audience whether the mayor was speaking about the appropriate subject or whether he should discuss the clock tower parking lot instead. The audience urged Throop to let the mayor speak.
Renovating the present town hall was rejected because of costs and because "it has asbestos and other things in it that needs to be fixed," Hayes said.
"The building we are in does not meet building codes and does not meet fire codes."
The counties building, which is similar in size, cost $1.34 million to renovate, he said.
"You people pay employees of the corporation to work [at Prescott town hall], day in and day out. I don't think any of you would work in that environment. It's not fair...
"We feel that the best way to spend your tax dollars is to put the town hall back on main street."
He pointed out that a public meeting in April attracted 150 people, some of whom indicated they were in favour of building a town hall downtown.
"Council has never been dictatorial on this issue. We want to hear what you have to say."
Hayes also mentioned that the space for the present library is inadequate because more space is needed for new public computer workstations.
Craig Bowers, a master of theology student and lifelong town resident, earned audience applause with his speech about renovating the current structure.
With council's current plan of rebuilding by the clock tower, the cost would be at least $1.8 million, not including the cost of replacing parking spots and demolishing the present building or the architect's fees, which could be as high as $180,000. Even if the Dibble Street land is divided and sold as building lots, the net cost of the town hall will be at least $2.2 million, not including interest, Bowers said.
A financial fact sheet distributed at the meeting said government regulations limit the annual payments on debentures to at most 25 per cent of annual revenues, most of which are local property taxes.
Renovating the present structure, even with new furniture and an elevator, would cost about $650,000, Bowers said. "The plan has been largely prepared in 1990 by [engineer] Peter Martin."
"If the numbers aren't convincing enough, take a walk to the corner of Dibble and West and look at the town hall. It's a grand building. As my father [Charlie Bowers} reminded me, all we have to do to see how great it would look is to view BCI in Brockville [a similar building]. It looks great because it's been taken care of.
"This one is on a nicer lot, with a nicer location."
However, Bowers noted, "we need to do more than plan a town hall. We need a vision for the town."
He suggested that if the town has $2 million to spend, some of the money could go toward economic development, aimed at attracting high-tech industries from Ottawa. "You don't make money by spending it on a town hall. You create jobs."
Throop spoke about "creating a vision together. What we need to do is sit down as a community and talk about what our dreams are."
He then called on Mayor Doug Hayes to play-act as the mayor of Prescott in the year 2005 and handed him a mock certificate proclaiming that the town has been named "2005 Community of the Year, the best place to live, work and raise a family."
Hayes uncomfortably accepted the mock certificate then told the audience, "Somehow I don't think I'll be your mayor, but maybe Dan will."
"Dan doesn't want to be your mayor," Throop replied.
John Reynolds, a retired minister, suggested the town should buy the decommissioned Seaway Queen, which began its maiden voyage through the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959 and is now being sold for scrap. Reynolds said the ship could be moored at Prescott's harbour and renovated to house a town hall, hotel, shops and more.
"For just $400,000 you can have a piece of St. Lawrence history that no one else can match," Reynolds suggested.
"What we're really talking about is what kind of community we're going to live in and how to make it a viable community.... What we dare to dream or imagine is our only limit."
Sitting at the junction of Highways 401 and 416, Prescott is well positioned to become a "world-class tourist destination," and Reynolds said the 713-foot vessel could become a magnet for tourists.
"It may not be practical, it may sound ridiculous, but every time I tell it, I get more excited."
Marc Cardinal, a Johnstown-area resident who owns a framing business in Prescott, made a speech in favour of building on the vacant Daniels lot on King Street between Centre and Edward streets.
Cardinal said the town council is doing the right thing in returning the town hall to the downtown core. "A town hall will revitalize the downtown. I think having the town hall located downtown is the best idea."
He mentioned, however, that there are several disadvantages to using the Daniels lot, including a lack of space and higher costs.
Hayes mentioned the price of the land had risen to about $300,000 from $200,000 since the town hall debate had begun.
However, Cardinal said council could work creatively to solve these problems, perhaps by putting the library in another location. He also suggested that social events and fundraisers could help offset costs. If 3,000 people gave $100 each, enough money would be raised for the lot, he said.
Cardinal said that using the Daniels lot would get rid of an eyesore. An audience member said the lot is now called "the mudhole."
Following the speeches, several people asked questions while others began to stream away from the amphitheatre, depositing their completed surveys in plastic bins on their way.
Resident John Perrin said the town had "no idea of where the main street will be 30 years from now... I suggest it will be Edward Street."
Sharon Robertson asked if council planned to include the courts in the new building, and the mayor replied no, that there is no guarantee the courts will return to Prescott after relocating to Brockville last December.
Another audience member expressed her concern about the Daniels lot. "You're right," Hayes replied. "It is a disgusting location ... [But] council can't be a real estate investor."
He said the Springer building, which has plywood covering its second-storey windows, is "also disgusting."
United minister Rev. Blair Paterson said it's still possible that the town could be forced to amalgamate with other municipalities. "We can't make assumptions."
"The province has told Prescott there will be no amalgamation," Hayes answered. "We're still going to need a library and administration offices.... It's a sad day, when you can't take people to your office and speak about business."
Ron Nolan got into a heated exchange with the mayor after telling Hayes that the town is in decline. " My children have moved away from here. We have gone downhill. We need to market Prescott."
He suggested that there is not enough serviced land available for industries that want to relocate here.
"Town council needs to work together. We don't need confrontations with the chamber of commerce," Nolan said.
"Or the fire department," another audience member yelled.
The meeting ended after approximately 1-1/2 hours.
As released by the meeting organizing committee of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce. As of press time, the committee was still compiling the comments listed on surveys for a final report but had totalled the numbers from the options area of the survey.
| TOWN HALL OPTIONS |
Yes |
No |
would consider |
|
Clock tower square Daniels Hotel lot Rebuild on Dibble St. W. Take care of current assets (renovate Dibble) Create a plan together Other ideas: Moored ship with tourist facilities included |
20 33 136 361 112 |
290 259 152 25 34 |
16 31 63 36 47 31 interested |
502 surveys completed
PRESCOTT The Fort Town has plenty of activities planned for Canada Day, Saturday, July 1.
At Fort Wellington, events for all ages are scheduled throughout the day, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The main attraction of the day gets under way at 11:30 a.m., when the fort's artillery crew will fire a six-pound field gun. This will be followed by a flag-raising ceremony and Canada Day cake and refreshments.
Visitors are then invited to celebrate in style as Fort Wellington presents its first-ever period fashion show at 1 p.m. The show will highlight the fort's three periods of greatest historical significance, which span several decades in the 19th century. The fashion show will end with a bang as members of the Royal Canadian Rifle Regiment of 1846 perform a period drill. Children must pay close attention to the drill as they will be called to join the ranks of the British army for a mock battle at 2 p.m. Also, from noon to 1:30 p.m., the fort will come alive with period music by Roger James of Kingston.
At the Forwarders' Museum on Water Street at the corner of Centre, cake and lemonade will be served outside in exchange for donations toward the museum's Setting Sail for 2000 capital campaign. Everyone is invited into the museum to see the newly opened displays on women's life in the 19th century and Prescott Then and Now, which will feature the photography contest winners. Also, visitors may view the Jack Morris Salon on the upper floor to see a display of Prescott's many community newspapers in the town's history.
The deadline for ads and articles for next week's Journal is Monday noon. The office will be closed Friday, June 30 and open Monday, July 3. Please submit ads and articles as early as possible.
Hobby cars
Consolation
Participants: Greg Evoy of Smiths Falls, Tony Florio of Prescott, Anthony Mackay of Prescott, Kenny Polite of Spencerville, Wayne Denneboom of Brockville area, Wesley Polite of Spencerville, Dusten Purcell of Prescott, Jordan Ramsey of Perth
Kit kars
Consolation
Participants: Christopher Rice of Prescott, Alexander Suatac of Cardinal, Mike Glock of Spencerville, Kurtis Martelle of Cardinal, Nick Perry of Cardinal, Robert Watson of Shanly, Nathan Merkley of Prescott, Anthony Merkley of Prescott.
PRESCOTT Homeowners in a one-block section of Jessup Street between Ann and St. Lawrence streets were evacuated from their homes for about four hours last Wednesday following a gas leak.
Prescott hydro and water foreman Bill Lawrence said police, volunteer fire fighters and the PUC went to the scene at about 6:30 p.m. A resident had called 911 after detecting a natural gas odour, police said.
The section of Jessup Street is under construction, and Lawrence said "part of a pipe came apart and started to leak a considerable amount of gas." Traces of gas were found in the sewer, he said.
The town's fire department assisted in the evacuation and helped to cordon off the area in an effort to ensure residents' safety, Lawrence said.
Union Gas officials provided a "temporary fix" that evening, and basements were checked for gas prior to allowing residents back into their homes at about 10 p.m. The problem was permanently fixed the next morning, Lawrence said.
BENSON PUBLIC SCHOOL: Grade 3 students went Upper Canada Village Tuesday, June 27 morning for field trip. Kindergarten students went to Prehistoric World the same day. The final assembly for the year will be held Thursday at 9:15 a.m. The Grade 8 graduation will be held on Wednesday, June 28.
BOUNDARY STREET PUBLIC SCHOOL: It is hard to believe the school year is over. We wish all of our students, parents and community a great summer! A big thank you to all those volunteers who graciously helped in the school all year long.
On Wednesday, weather permitting, we will have our Fun Day at the school. Also, our Grade 8 graduation dinner will be held at the Prescott Golf Club at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday.
Thursday, June 29, is the last day for the students. Happy summer everyone!
CENTENNIAL '67: The Grade 8 graduation was held on Tuesday, June 27.
MAYNARD PUBLIC SCHOOL: The Grade 8 graduation will be held on Wednesday, June 28.
SOUTH EDWARDSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL: On Wednesday, June 28, the Grade 8 graduation will be held.
ST. JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC SCHOOL: The Grade 8 graduation was held on Monday, June 26 at St. Mark's Church.
ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL: On June 23, Play Day was held, and it was a grand success! Many thanks to the host of parents and other volunteers who helped to make the day a success. Thank you also to the St. Mark School Council, which sponsored the hot dog and ice cream lunch and to St. Mark CWL, which provided cooling popsicles for all. The day was a beautiful one and was enjoyed by all! Today, Wednesday, June 28 marks the last day for students. It will begin with a mass at St. Mark Church at 9:30 a.m. At mass, we shall bid farewell to 54 Grade 3 students, who will be leaving us, most to go on to St. Joseph School. We wish all a safe, happy and relaxing summer. School will resume on Tuesday, Sept. 5.
By MONICA WHITNEY - Journal Staff Writer
JOHNSTOWN The Grade 7 and 8 students at South Edwardsburg Public School have put the school's computer learning lab to the test this spring, with a research and information project that tracked the recent Canadian expedition on Mt. Everest.
On their own initiative, the students used the computers to gain daily high-speed access to the CBC Newsworld web site for coverage of the expedition led by Calgarian Byron Smith.
Coached by language teacher and principal Patricia Mayer, the students began their quest for information in March. Each student selected a topic of interest on which to report, such as fitness and training, support and team members, clothing and equipment, challenges and dangers, geography and maps of the region and statistics. The class prepared written speeches, maps, booklets and an oral presentation.
A highlight of the expedition project was e-mail contact with Byron Smith. The students prepared questions about the trek, which were answered by the team leader.
"He probably had thousands of schools and kids contact him," said Mayer. "This man stood on the top of Mt. Everest and he's corresponding with our class. That's pretty phenomenal.
"It's been marvelous for the kids. And it's just because they wanted to do it. The calibre of work is impressive. It really says a lot about our students."
The students asked Smith what was most memorable about his expedition. His reply: "Standing on top of the world and realizing the accomplishment of a goal that I had set for myself. I was taken by the tremendous view from the summit and had many thoughts about some of the people that had stood before me. As I was going up the Hillary Step, I was thinking of where Sir Edmund Hillary had stood before me."
Answering the students' question about what he would do now that he had fulfilled a dream, Smith wrote: "I need to allow time to let it sink in, I am still absorbing what happened. What I am going to do now is sit back, relax for a bit and then go and do some public speaking."
Intrigued by this response, the class decided to invite Smith to speak at their school.
In a letter to Smith thanking him for his time to answer their questions, student Kelly McKay wrote: "At first I didn't think you would have the time or the energy to answer questions that kids at a school as small as South Ed made up in class. We're glad you did, and I think that made some people in our class feel pretty special.
"We have been reading the CBC site and watching you on TV, but it would be way better if you could come here and talk to us in person. That would be so cool!"
Student Ben Hutt wrote: "We have been working on an Everest project for three months and it would be a great privilege if you would come down to see us."
The class also prepared a book on their project which they sent to Smith. Wrote student Amy Foster: "Please accept this book that we have made as a memory to you. We appreciate being able to be a part of this with you, trying to understand how you struggled and how it must have felt to reach your greatest goal!"
The project also included a field trip to the Omnimax theatre in Hull, Que., to see the film Everest. Students Natasha James-Allard and Felisha Clarke wrote of the film: "We experienced what it was like to actually climb the mountain and what it felt like to almost be crushed by an avalanche."
Local media reported that Ontario's Ministry of Municipal Affairs has indicated that Front of Leeds and Lansdowne, which includes the 1000 Islands Bridge at Ivy Lea, tops a list of four municipalities eligible to apply for a charity casino from the Ontario government, the only charity casino the province plans to build in at least the next three years. A consultant's report prepared for the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation concludes the township has the best market potential for a charity gaming facility, followed by Gananoque, Prescott and Brockville. All four municipalities are eligible.
Since Brockville and Gananoque voters rejected the idea of a casino in a 1997 referendum, may I suggest that they be placed at the bottom of the list, even though it would now appear they are having second thoughts.
That leaves Prescott versus the township, and I, for one, question the data used to arrive at the conclusion by the consultants that the township has the best market potential. Was the following data used when considering Prescott?
* With the recently completed four-lane highway, 416, to Ottawa, there is a potential for thousands of patrons from not only Ottawa but Nepean, Kemptville, Manotick, etc. Ottawa is less than one hour from Prescott. Many patrons who presently attend the Hull casino would much prefer to spend their money in Ontario than in Quebec, where the government has indicated it would like to separate and thus break up our Canada.
* Prescott lies between two bridges and the USA. Ten minutes east is the bridge to Ogdensburg, 30 minutes to the west is the 1000 Islands Bridge to Alexandria Bay.
* Cornwall, Morrisburg, Iroquois and Cardinal are all less than one hour from Prescott.
* Kingston, Gananoque, etc. are less than an hour from Prescott. People from Kingston now travel more than two hours to Hull. They would welcome Prescott, no doubt.
* The Ontario government owns a parcel of land at the southeast corner of Highway 401 and Edward Street that is presently occupied by the OPP. A change of venue would release a prime piece of property that would be available for consideration.
Prescott has the potential of being a town on the move with most of the infrastructure complete. Prescott is ready and a casino would be a definite asset. So, Mr. Mayor, Mr. MP and Mr. Premier, look us over, don't pass us over. We know we are number one.
Doug Watt, Prescott
EDITOR'S NOTE: Prescott town council will hold a public meeting on Monday, July 10 at 7 p.m. about holding a referendum on the casino question during the next municipal election this November.
I have followed with much interest the many views on the need for some improvement in the town hall facility in Prescott. In order to judge its importance, we need to know the present functions of the town hall.
With modern computer wizardry, the question surely arises: Does Prescott really need a town hall? Is it not possible, that with a declining population, that most if not all of the functions could be handled by one person sitting in front of a computer screen?
Certainly the PUC and town administration should be combined and I ask the question again, has the function and necessity of a town hall ceased to exist, particularly with small towns with income problems?
It is hard to understand how a new town hall will encourage the development of much-needed new industry, rather than the reverse, since taxes will surely rise to pay for and maintain any new facility.
Interesting, eh?
How about some reader response?
John Grant,
Riverview Heights
Jessica Brassard
OAC, South Grenville
District High School
Jane Fullarton
Nitrochem hosted a successful community forum at the MERC Hall on June 21. Ken LeBlanc, head of human resources at the plant, explained that the goals of the forum were to introduce the new company which took over the plant on Feb. 18 and to present to the public the quantitative risk analysis.
Nitrochem is a member of the Canadian Chemical Producers Association and along with it has adopted the Responsible Care Program. Under this program, there are many codes of practice dealing with transportation of dangerous goods, manufacturing, research and development and community awareness.
Nitrochem has a community advisory panel that was set up several years ago. The panel meets two to three times a year to discuss company updates, the current outlook for the company and environmental issues. The members of the committee are Vic Allen, Peter White, Peter Bevan-Baker, Ray Avery, Mike Baril, Fred Boisvert, Bill Borger, Diana Chapman, Don Hagerman, Carson Kilpatrick, Bobby Leeder and Cathy McHugh.
For the past 18 months, the community advisory panel has been working on the quantitative risk analysis project, culminating in the presentation to the public last Wednesday. More than 150 people attended the event, which featured, information on the company, Community Alert Network, quantitative risk analysis and the products. In an effort to reach as many interested people as possible, invitations were sent to 780 people, including neighbours, local suppliers, customers and emergency responders. The last community forum held by the company was in 1996.
Maitland Hornets
The Maitland Hornets Girls Softball Team held a successful car wash at the Maitland Fire hall on June 10 and have reached its fundraising goal for new team jackets. The team is grateful for the use of the fire hall and for the community's support.
By Willy Sieling Heuvel
This afternoon, Wednesday, June 28, at 5 p.m., our steak barbecue will be held. Let's hope for great weather. See you there!
Our next outing is a trip to the Mallorytown park on Thursday, July 20. I'm hoping we can use private cars for transportation and have a picnic at the park, and maybe a swim if the day is hot and anyone would like to cool off. We will leave Walker House at 10 a.m. If you would like to go, give me a call. Drivers needed!
You may as well update your calendars: Aug. 17 a mystery car trip; Aug. 26 another barbecue; and of course Sept. 20-21 is the trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Falls. Come join us. Give me a call at 925-5300.
Our weight wisdom group is doing well. We lost 22 lb. last week. It's held Tuesday mornings at 9 a.m. and Fridays at 8:30 a.m. Join in; it's good for you!
Winners at the card tables last week
Monday bridge: Bess Silversides first, Ted Crosbie second, and Geneva O'Dell won the door prize.
Tuesday cribbage: high hand Lou Baldwin, high score Sam Covey, second Alice Crowder, third Jean Annable.
Wednesday bridge: first Andy Britnell, Audrey Kingston second, and Anne Woods won the door prize.
Thursday euchre: first Alice Crowder, second Eleanor Gilligan, third Mary Mulder, and Bea Hemsley won the door prize.
PRESCOTT - Visit the Forwarders' Museum on select Fridays this summer and enjoy afternoon tea in the historic setting. Tea and dessert will be served by staff and volunteers in period costume behind the historic building, overlooking the river. The first tea, on Friday, July 7, will feature period music performed by local entertainers, including Kate Bevan-Baker. The teas will take place on July 7, July 21, Aug. 4 and Aug. 18, from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
Mansel Harold Wallace, 275 Water St., Apt. 104, Prescott, died June 14, 2000 at Dundas Manor, Winchester. He was 84.
Mr. Wallace was born Aug. 15, 1915 in Pleasant Valley to Robert Wallace and Elizabeth Gilmer, who predeceased him. He is survived by his wife, Marie Wallace of Prescott, whom he married Sept. 15, 1953.
He is also survived by his sisters, Dorothy Moore and Nelda Stinson, both of Prescott, and by several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Kenneth and Herb.
Mr. Wallace enjoyed playing euchre and was the owner and operator of a dairy farm.
The funeral service was held at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, Prescott, June 17 at 1:30 p.m., with Rev. Bob Fillier officiating. An Orange Lodge Memorial Service took place at the funeral home June 16 at 7 p.m.
The pallbearers were Carl Sears, Richard Gilmer, John Somerville, Bob Juby, Jim Moore and Lawrence Wallace.
Burial was held at the Hainsville Cemetery June 17, 2000.
Donations to the War Amps would be appreciated.
Bradley William Phillips, 23, died Monday, June 19, 2000 in a tragic auto accident in St. Catharines, Ont.
He is the beloved eldest son of Susan and Bill Phillips, and dear brother to David, Scott and Elizabeth. Brad was a special friend to Marcia. He is survived by his grandmothers, Mrs. Velma Linnen of Cardinal, and Mrs. Florence Phillips of Prescott, as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins and many dear friends.
Brad Phillips was just getting started in the career he always wanted. But a car crash in Pelham ended the aspiring environmentalist's life, leaving his close-knit family devastated. Police are still trying to determine the cause of the 1 p.m. crash.
"He will never be replaced," said his father, Bill Phillips, the principal at Power Glen School in St. Catharines. "I am extremely proud of his accomplishments."
Family and friends are now remembering a young man with a warm, fun and caring personality who always had time for people.
"He was a great guy. He had a real sense of fun," said family friend Don Rode. "He had many friends and was an easygoing guy."
Rode has been close friends for decades with Bill Phillips and his wife Susan.
The couple is struggling to come to terms with the shock of losing the eldest of their four children.
Brad had been living at his family's home north of St. Catharines since graduating from university in 1998.
The Phillips have three younger children: David, 21, Scott, 17, and Beth, 14.
The whole family, together with Brad's girlfriend, spent Father's Day together, planning upcoming outings to their cabin.
Brad went to Laura Secord Secondary School and was valedictorian in his final year. After graduating from an environmental program at the University of Waterloo last spring, he opted to go to Niagara College to gain practical work experience in his field, said Rode.
Brad, who loved the outdoors, finished the environmental studies program only recently.
He was juggling two part-time jobs -- one at a Starbucks coffee shop and another at a small environmental consulting firm in St. Catharines. As the company's client base increased, he was hoping his consulting position would expand to full-time, said Rode.
"Brad had successfully completed his studies at Niagara College and was looking forward to getting on with his life," said Rode.
Family friend Doug Walls also said Brad was eager to make his mark in the environmental field after years of schooling.
"He was very much looking forward to starting his career. He was excited about that because that's what he had trained himself for," he said.
Walls has been friends with Bill Phillips since they attended university together and is also a colleague. The principal at Connaught School in St. Catharines said staff at schools across the district have been hit hard by the death.
"Bill is well-known and well-liked in education circles. Everybody feels for the family," he said.
Brad will be greatly missed by his co-workers at the Starbucks in Fairview Mall, said Alison Legge, the manager who hired him 10 months ago. It wasn't just coffee he served his customers; he also gave them genuine warmth.
As well-wishing customers brought in bundles of cut flowers Tuesday, the usually upbeat atmosphere of the coffee shop was replaced with solemnity. Management closed two hours early Monday night after shocked staff found out about Brad's death.
"He blended in with the [Starbucks] team really well," said Legge.
Niagara Regional Police are appealing to witnesses to come forward with information to help them figure out what led to the fatal crash.
Visitation was held at the George Darte Funeral Chapel, St. Catharines, June 22.
The funeral service was held June 23 at St. Columba Anglican Church.
Donations to the Help A Child Smile or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family
A private family interment will be held Thursday, June 29 at Sandy Hill Cemetery, Prescott.
Peter Christopher Polite, 62, of Domville, died May 2, 2000 at Brockville General Hospital.
He was born July 7, 1937 in Domville to Reta (Baker) and Ken Polite.
Mr. Polite attended Domville Public School and after a brief time at the Prescott High School, he left for a job on the lakers as a wheelsman. Driving was a skill that Mr. Polite excelled at from his early youth. He drove a taxi in Ottawa for a couple of years, and shortly after came back to his roots in Domville.
He became employed as a heavy equipment operator during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway and eventually achieved employment with Permanent Concrete as a cement operator during the early 1960s. With an ambition to drive heavy equipment, Mr. Polite drove tanker trucks for Texaco of Ottawa until 1967.
He later purchased his first dump truck, which he drove independently for two years before starting Pete Polite Sand and Gravel in 1969. During this time, he took on a side venture known as Pete's Fish and Chips. He operated two stores, in Prescott and Kingston, for three years. After almost two decades as a successful businessman, Mr. Polite retired in November 1988.
On his retirement, which he often commented were the best years, Mr. Polite enjoyed several hobbies including being an antique car hobbyist, restoring antique pedal cars, collecting nostalgia memorabilia, and taking a special interest in birds and wildlife. He cherished his fish pond and spending time with his beloved dog Tash.
Mr. Polite was devoted to his family as a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Mr. Polite is survived by his wife of 42 years, Margaret (Leacock), and his children, Steven (Ann-Marie) of Roebuck, Lana (Paul) Francis of Prescott, Lisa (Dennis) Isotti of Kanata, Lori Polite (friend Ron Ferguson) of Belleville and Lara Polite (friend Jim Savoie) of Domville.
He is also sadly missed by five grandchildren, Dustin, Wesley and Kenny Polite and Hayley and Lindsey Francis. Also surviving are his brother Calvin (Cathy) Polite of Spencerville, and an aunt, Bernice Brown of Domville.
Mr. Polite was predeceased by his mother Reta in 1996 and his father Ken in 1974.
Family and friends were received at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, 416 Dibble St. W., Prescott, Wednesday, May 3, from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 7 to 9 p.m. A funeral service was held in the chapel on May 4 at 2 p.m., with Rev. Doug Warren officiating. Eulogies were read by Mr. Polite's brother Calvin and by his grandson Wesley.
Interment was at Maynard Cemetery.
The pallbearers were friends and former employees Richard Stephenson, George Armstrong, Milford Brown, Harlow Miller, Duane Stephenson, Ken Banning, Tom Simpson, and eldest grandson Dustin Polite.
The honourary pallbearer was Cheryl Craig.
Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Humane Society and the Diabetes Association would be appreciated.
PRESCOTT - Youth for Life has a full slate of activities planned for the summer. The staff have planned swimming, movies, craft days, pizza parties, camping, a ball tournament and much more in July alone. Also new this year will be a series of workshops on topics ranging from health and fitness to resume writing to sexually transmitted diseases.
During the first week of July, there will be:
Monday, July 3: swimming at the pool from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, July 4: movie from 1 to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, July 5: craft afternoon (1 to 4 p.m.), game night (6 to 9 p.m.)
Thursday, July 6: pizza party and movie night 6 to 9 p.m.
Friday, July 7: dance 8 to 10 p.m.
July 8-July 9: fundraising ball tournament
Monday, July 10: swimming at pool 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Wednesday, July 12: basketball 1 to 4 p.m., Central Public School
In the future, many other activities are planned, including a camping trip to Grenville Park on July 14-15, horseback riding on July 17 and beach volleyball and a barbecue on July 27. Please see the schedule at The Cave in Prescott's town hall on Dibble Street, Prescott, or call Youth for Life at 925-2004.
By MONICA WHITNEY - Journal Staff Writer
Boundary Street Public School teacher Susan Williams is leaving the teaching profession, but she's taking with her almost a lifetime of memories from the school that's been like home since her own childhood.
Williams moved to Prescott at the age of seven and attended Boundary. She spent this last year of 34 teaching years in the same classroom where she sat in a student's desk in Grade 5.
"It's hard to imagine back to those days," she says, noting that she always had a passion for teaching. Williams often played school as a child, and she explained it was natural to choose this career path. "It never crossed my mind to do anything different."
Her career began at Maynard Public School. She then moved on to supply teaching at various local schools, and the last 28 years have been spent at Boundary.
Many teachers have been at Boundary for several years, she said, making "the staff very much like a family." All the teachers are supportive and hard-working within a friendly atmosphere, she said. "Any parent could be proud to send their child here. Parents are saying there's a lot to be had at Boundary for their children."
In fact, Williams says she "likes the people and the atmosphere too much to cut it off completely." She has plans to return to the school as a volunteer after retirement.
In this final year at Boundary, Williams has been the teacher for the English half of the French immersion program, a special education resource teacher for special needs students, and the site administrator for the school's computers.
Teaching French immersion students is "a wonderful way to be heading out the door," she said. "I can't say enough good things about the way the year has gone." Williams explained the students are good workers and enthusiastic. "These are the kinds of kids you go into teaching for."
Williams has also seen a lot of changes in education over the years. "Gone are the days of writing a note on the board and copying it down and drawing a picture to go with it," she said.
Students now need to approach questions differently, and need to be able to explain how they arrived at the answer using numbers, pictures and words. Just giving an answer isn't enough anymore, Williams said.
There are now more demands on teachers' time, with new curriculum and expectations, she said. Teachers are required to spend more time out of the classroom, keeping up-to-date. "You could never sit back and think you know it all. There's always something new."
More demands are now being made on the students as well, Williams noted. The foundation for learning is starting earlier, with some math and music concepts coming down from the high school level to grade levels. There is more interaction between teachers and students, and more learning among the students themselves. Also, more emphasis is placed on experimental and hands-on learning, she said.
During retirement, Williams is hoping to spend time doing "all the things we rush through when we're working," such as redecorating, gardening, cooking and sewing. She's looking forward to visiting her son, who works in Kitchener, and her daughter in Toronto. Her husband Dave retired from teaching last year after 32 years in the profession.
John Reynolds, on the idea of buying an old ship to use as a town hall/hotel
Fantastic. That's a description of last Thursday evening's public meeting at the Kinsmen Outdoor Amphitheatre about the town hall project. The meeting was sponsored by the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce.
The meeting was a huge success and an exercise in democracy. Not only did about 600 people manage to attend and sit outdoors despite the rain that tapered off soon after the meeting began, 502 of them also filled out a survey to express their opinions about the town hall issue. On the survey, they were permitted to choose one of the options mentioned by the five speakers or to express an idea of their own.
The audience included a wider cross-section of the community than the public meeting council held in April attended by 150 people. The mayor and several councillors also attended Thursday and should be commended for being brave enough to show up and listen to people's concerns.
The speeches were given by five volunteers. One of the most entertaining and uplifting speeches was given by John Reynolds, a retired minister, who suggested that the town could buy a decommissioned steamer, the Seaway Queen, moor it at Prescott's harbour, and renovate it to include a town hall, hotel and more, making it a world-class tourist attraction.
One of the most popular speeches was given by Craig Bowers, who earned much applause through his common-sense approach to the town hall issue. A masters of theology student who also has two math degrees to his credit, Bowers released the results of his calculations on what it would cost to renovate the present town hall, the former Prescott High School building on Dibble Street. Basing his estimate on information in a 1990 report prepared for Prescott council by engineer Peter Martin, Bowers estimated that renovating the present structure and adding an elevator would cost about $650,000, a far cry from the $2.2 million needed for town council's current plan. If council has extra money, it would be better spent on economic development, on creating decent jobs.
We couldn't agree more. And according to the survey results, 361 of 502 people (72%) who completed the survey also agree whole-heartedly that renovating the Dibble Street structure is the best option. Hopefully council is listening.
Christine Endicott
Jeff Lee
This sudden warm weather got me thinking about a trip I took with some family members several years ago.
What I remember is the hot, humid weather appearing out of nowhere, like now. I know it is late June and this weather has been late getting here, but until you spend the day in a low-grade sweat, you forget what the weather can be like.
When our plane descended through the clouds and I saw a sea of brown, I should have expected it to be hot, especially since it was summer and this was the Philippines.
I had already spent time in Korea and Japan, countless hours pounding the pavement and seeing the sights, so I didn't think heat was going to be a problem.
But as soon as my dad, my sister and I had stepped off the plane, we sighed, "Oh, my goodness." As a friend of mine often stated: "Africa hot." Now I was beginning to understand what a statement like that meant. The heat actually felt as if it was this tangible thing pressing down on me. My luggage felt as if it weighed twice as much, and it might have, from the amount of sweat sweeping from my pores.
My sister and I started talking about how unbelievably hot it was, and we could understand why people took things at a slower pace. Well, most people. My dad's nephew came bounding up, shaking our hands with his right hand while daubing his forehead with his left.
Maybe another reason I sat down tonight to type this was to remind myself that it isn't that hot, and I should be able to fall asleep with no problem. Yeah, right.
So it's hot, I mean painfully hot. I have experienced heat that makes your skin tingle while sitting on a tractor, working the fields on a summer job. But never like this. During the hottest parts of the day, even my dad's nephew sought protection from the sun.
It was like the inverse of the coldest days of winter. While waiting for my dad's nephew to get his car, we tried to stand outside the World-type bank he worked for. No good, we had to seek shelter inside the air-conditioned building because it was physically painful outside.
For the first several trips in the car, the four of them and the three of us were crammed into the sedan, with only a trickle of air conditioning coming out of the vents. We couldn't understand why he did not jack up the air.
But after a while, like so many things in life, it's all relative. Compared to out there, driving by the scorched earth, it wasn't too hot. Out there it was Africa Hot.
The funny thing was that after a while, despite how hot and oppressive the heat was, we started to get used to it. I started to notice that while down at the public pool, where I actually felt cool, or during brownouts (like blackouts, but during the day) the sea of people stuck in a public place wasn't too suffocating.
But where it really hit me when I was entering the airport after spending the past two weeks in the Philippines. Going through those doors, I wasn't greeted by a wall of heat; it actually was one of the cooler spots on the island.
John A.H. Morris
The announcement by the Ontario government last week that Prescott was one of four municipalities (albeit number three) on their short list to receive a casino next year is all the more reason for town council to re-think its absurd decision to build a new town hall on the municipal parking lot, thus eliminating 65 downtown parking spots.
As long as there is a remote chance that Prescott might get a casino, council has to lay off its plans of tinkering with our downtown and retail core, and settle for what is best for the taxpayers, i.e. remodelling the present town hall, a seemingly sound building.
What is needed more than a $1.5 million town hall on a perfectly suitable and needed downtown parking lot is some professional planning on what we should strive for in downtown renewal, both with and without a casino.
There is no doubt that a waterfront casino, coupled with a destination resort hotel, would turn the economic tide in this town and bring back some of the prosperity of the 70s and 80s.
No town in Eastern Ontario, or all of Ontario as far as that goes, has suffered as many economic blows as Prescott in the past five years. This has included the loss of more than 500 well-paying manufacturing jobs through the closing of the RCA and Newell companies; the loss of several jobs through the shifting of personnel at the Canadian Coast Guard; and the dumping of provincial responsibilities onto the municipality, the latest of these "dumps" being a sewage disposal plant that needs about $14 million in repairs.
If Prescott council wants to make amends for its dismantling of the South Grenville Economic Development Commission, then it should make a dedicated pitch for the new Eastern Ontario casino.
The first step should be to hire a firm to lobby the Ontario government and all connected agencies to locate the casino on Prescott's waterfront. The lobbying should start with a campaign to place the question on the November municipal ballot and to see that it is carried with a substantial majority.
Council has shown that it is willing to spend a million or more dollars on a new town hall, and probably $25,000 on a structural study of the present town hall (after considerable urging from the taxpayers). It can afford the cost of a professional lobby firm.
There is no one who can effect such a lobbying effort better than Vic Allen and his consultants associated with his firm, The Allen Corner Group Ltd.
Hiring Vic Allen to head up such a lobby will give Prescott the opportunity to take advantage of his vast and valuable knowledge of Prescott's economy as well as all of the community advantages we could contribute to such a venture.
As CEO of the South Grenville Economic Development Commission, as chairman of the Grenville Community Development Centre, chairman of the successful Highway 416 Citizens Coalition, and as a major contributor to several Ottawa-Carleton lobbies, including Open Skies project at the Ottawa airport, Vic Allen's talents and connections cannot be overlooked in this project.
Added to his credentials are his efforts in opening negotiations for the town's buy-back of the hotel property next to the Sandra Lawn Harbour and his close association with the Star of Fortune company which had the casino license for Prescott before Premier Harris pulled the rug out from under the community more than a year ago.
Prescott deserves the economic benefits a casino will bring to the community, as does all of South Grenville, and it deserves a break from the Ontario government. We are better situated geographically than the other three municipalities on the government's short list, and unless we are grossly wrong, our town is in strong support of a year-round casino that will bring millions of dollars in new wages and new taxes to the town and neighbouring townships.
Another encouraging piece of news relative to the town's prosperity is the fact that a feasibility study, financed by a group of Prescott business people, the Chamber of Commerce and the BIA, shows that even without a casino, a destination-type hotel on the town's attractive waterfront could be economically viable. Let's push that Prescott Pride!
Canada Day 2000 will be celebrated in style in Cardinal, with several events planned for all ages by the Community Festival Committee.
The activities on Saturday, July 1 provide fun and entertainment for every age. All the events take place at the Cardinal Legion (McLaughlin Park). There will be button draws every hour throughout the day. Buttons are $2 each.
Beginning at 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., a breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon or sausage, toast, juice, and coffee or tea will be served for $3.50. This event is sponsored by the Cardinal Legion Branch 105 Ladies Auxiliary.
A mixed volleyball tournament starts at 9 a.m. Call 657-4601 to register. There is a charge of $60.00 per team, and all proceeds will be returned in prize money.
The Cardinal Lions Club is organizing children's races from 10 to 11 a.m.
The club is providing a hot dog and a drink to each participant, and the municipality is donating the prizes. The races will take place west of the volleyball courts.
The volunteer fire department will have a demonstration from 11 a.m. to 12 noon.
A men's horseshoe tournament begins at 12 noon. There is a $5
entry fee for a round robin, and all proceeds will be returned in prize money.
Hot dogs, hamburgers, sausages and drinks will be served at a barbecue beginning at 12 noon.
This event is sponsored by the Cardinal Navy League.
Come and enjoy a strawberry daiquiri or pina coloda on the deck during the Hawaiian beach party, from 1 to 3 p.m.
A children's fishing derby runs from 1 to 4 p.m., sponsored by the Cardinal Fish and Game Club.
Age groups are up to eight years, age nine to 12, and age 13 to 16. The weigh-in is at the Legion park.
The Riverside Seniors are sponsoring a euchre tournament, beginning at 1:30 p.m. There is a $5 entry fee. /?Outdoor music will be provided by Dan McKee under the pavilion from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Music inside the Legion Hall, again by Dan McKee, will round out the day's activities. This event runs from 7 to 11 p.m.
CARDINAL - Small mouth bass fishermen hauled in big catches and prizes at a successful fishing derby held June 24 and 25 in Cardinal.
Cardinal Fish and Game Club president John Dugan Sr. said the club was pleased with the turnout
He was also pleased with the "tremendous" sizes of the fish.
First prize of $100 went to Tim Grisdale for his catch of 3 lb., 5 oz.
Albert Benway took home $75 for his bass that weighed in at 3 lb. 1 oz.
His catch measured three eighths of an inch longer than Len Dooley's fish of the same weight, who captured $50 for third place.
John Dugan Jr. took fourth place for his fish that weighed in at 3 lb. one half ounces. He won $30. Fifth prize of $20 went to Rick Fraser for his catch of 2 lb. 14 oz.
CARDINAL - The local Lions Club held an activity-packed meeting June 22 with the election of officers for 2000-2001.
Two new members were also inducted into the club, raising the roster to 21 volunteer members.
Carolyn Mason, an employee of CASCO, made a presentation of a computer system to the club, on behalf of the company.
The equipment will be used for record-keeping and treasury reports.
Membership Director Larry Dishaw gave a brief history of the club. The Cardinal Lions was formed in 1991 with 26 members. Major fund raising over the past eight years has included $26,000 annual gross proceeds from two monthly bingos, nevada sales from the Scorpion restaurant, Labour Day Festival Weekend dance and bar sales, dart shoots, the annual trade fair, community breakfasts and the monster yard sale.
Members Gary Tracey, Larry Dishaw and Bob Lodge have won Helen Kellar Awards, and Dick Willis has received the Cabinet Secretary Award. Past Lion-of-the-Year members have been Dick Willis, Dean Montroy, Laurie Montroy and Tracey.
Charity drives
Financial support has been given to several charities, including the Cancer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation, the local Sea Sharks swim club, the Guiding and Scouting movements, local library and medical clinic, regional hospitals, Cardinal fire department and festival committee.
The club was recognized in 1999 by Lions International as a 5 Star Club, and was referred to as being The Best of the Best in Lionism.
A current activity is the Millennium Heritage Information Project, partnering with the federal government, the village of Cardinal and the Legion.
Charter members
Charter members remaining with the club are Marguerite Campbell, Larry Dishaw, Mary Ellen Dishaw, Harry Moore, Annette Tracey, Garry Tracey, Dick Willis and Bonnie Willis.
By Scott Kuipers
Don't forget to register this week for our local Cardinal in Bloom contest.
The deadline to enter is this Friday, June 30. There is no cost to enter, and great prizes can be won.
In the best floral homes (front yard) category, the first prize is a patio set, second prize is two Muskoka chairs, and third prize is an arbour.
A special category this year is the best use of red and white. The prize is a garden bench.
Also, first, second and third prize plaques will be awarded to businesses and service organizations.
Registration forms are available at the Cardinal Municipal Office and the General Dollar store on Dundas St.
Judges for communities in Bloom were impressed last year with the level of participation. Let's wow them this year!
June 20, 1990
* Allan and Heather Racine were honoured at the CASCO plant Monday for delivering the best wet corn to the plant last year. The South Mountain couple delivered more than 1,500 tonnes of corn last fall, which company officials said was of a very high standard. Clare Brown, CASCO's commodity purchasing manager for the eastern region, made the presentation.
* Martin Stobo of Cardinal was presented with a special provincial certificate of recognition by Allan Johnson, chairman of the Prescott Branch of St. John Ambulance. Mr. Stobo saved a man from drowning on July 31, 1988.
* Teams from Cardinal swept the top four spots recently at a Legion zone horseshoe tournament. The winners at the event, hosted June 9 by Branch 105 of the Legion, will go on to compete in the district competition.
Taking first place on the day was the team of Ray Hall and Gord Woods; second went to Wally Douglas Jr. and Bill Dodge; third was won by the duo of Wink Amell and Ron Earl; while fourth went to Joe Crawford and Len Crawford.
June 18, 1980
* A successful bingo and teen dance sponsored by the Cardinal firefighters last week put things in gear for the coming weekend when the local department will host the 68th Annual Eastern Ontario Firefighters Convention.
* Ron Patrick, Chairman of the Cardinal Centennial Committee, announced this week that invitational letters have now gone to press and 30 volunteers will soon be canvassing the village and Edwardsburgh Township in order to distribute them.
* Prize money totalling $3,206 was given away at the Cardinal Firefighters monster bingo last Thursday night. Bernadette Charbot of Cardinal was a single winner, taking home $334.50. .
June 24, 1970
* Raymond O'Brien was elected chairman of the Group Committee for the Cardinal Boy Scouts.
. Twenty six boys are now members of the Cubs;
* Cardinal's Volunteer Firefighters were called to the Canada Starch plant last Wednesday, but upon their arrival found their services were not required as the plant's fire brigade had a small fire in the mill room there already under control.
On Thursday evening it took the firefighters nearly an hour to quell a blaze in the basement of the Cardinal Plumbing and Heating, New Street. Total damages to the premises was estimated at $800.
* Dr. Fred W. Bush, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. James Bush of Cardinal, and a brother of Mrs. Dora Gaylord and Mrs. Geraldine McLean of Cardinal, has been cited for an award of merit in Rochester, N.Y.
June 24, 1960
* No decision will be reached until the December session of Counties Council on the petition presented to the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville by the Village of Cardinal and Township of Edwardsburgh relevant to their withdrawal from the South Grenville High School District.
The two dissenting municipalities had based their request to withdraw and form a new entity on the recent decision of a board of arbitration which raised their share of costs of financing the South Grenville District School.
* The Cardinal Citizens Band with a number of young musicians played their first concert of the season on Lewis Street in front of the town hall Wednesday evening. This was much enjoyed and received a nice applause.
Ken Lynch, who has spent his entire 32-year teaching career at Benson Public School, is retiring this week.
A community social gathering was held in his honour June 22 at the school. Lynch started teaching at Benson Sept. 3, 1968.
Benson teacher Bryan Armstrong told the gathering "the people of Cardinal have been blessed with someone so dedicated."
Principal Jerry Hough echoed that sentiment, saying that Lynch was a competent teacher who loved working with the students. He devoted innumerable hours to coaching sports and was actively involved in team events.
Lynch felt sports was another way of better understanding the students, Hough said. "He saw sports as a way of solving problems and extending responsibility. It was another avenue for him to become a better teacher and reach the students in a different way."
BERWICK - South Nation Conservation will participate in a province-wide network established by the government to monitor and help maintain valuable groundwater resources.
"This is really what conservation authorities are all about," said Mary-Ann Wilson, SNC's Acting General Manager. "It highlights the main role of the province's 38 authorities and will also focus on some of our other activities."
She added the Groundwater Monitoring Network will serve as an "early warning system" for changes in water levels caused by climactic conditions and consumption, as well as for fluctuations in quality due to natural or man-made causes. Speaking on the scene of the Walkerton water disaster, Premier Mike Harris referred to the network as one of the measures being implemented to gain a better managerial handle on water resources.
The network structure will include: installation of test wells in 27 watersheds by the end of this year, with other watersheds to be instrumented for monitoring in 2001 and 2002; supporting aquifer and hydrogeologic mapping for each watershed; chemical analysis to assess groundwater quality; and an information management system to collect and store data.
MORRISBURG - The Monday Night Series returns to Upper Canada Playhouse with a musical line-up that will have audiences foot tapping, finger snapping and dancing in their seats.
This 2000 series includes a crowd-pleasing variety of musicians.
The finest Delta bluesmen on the circuit will perform July 10.Hailing from Harlem, New York, Guy Davis is an electrifying performer who has wowed sold-out houses across Canada, and has been featured at major festivals, such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival and the Winnipeg Folk Festival.
Tom Leighton and Bobby Watt come together July 31 for Scottish ballads and maritime jigs. Their traditional repertoire is influenced by Celtic and North American folk roots. This extraordinary duo weave their spell with a storytelling flair, acoustic string instruments and accordion.
Winner of the Best Blues Artist 2000 Juno Award, recording artist Ray Bonneville is a superb singer-songwriter who comes to the Playhouse August 21. Bonneville's smooth blues styling features impeccable guitar and harmonica, whether he is working solo or with a full band.
James Keelaghan is one of the brightest stars on the world folk scene today. He's earned international acclaim for his compelling songwriting and performances in the U.S., England, Australia, Denmark and Hong Kong. He is a commanding performer and develops an intimate rapport with audiences through his stories and humour. With a distinctive blues style that combines influences of jazz, country, soul and gospel, Georgette Fry has toured across Canada and South Africa. A singer of incredible power, Fry was awarded Best Canadian Blues Vocalist by the Best Blues Magazine.
For ticket reservations and information, call the Upper Canada Playhouse box office at (613) 543-3713.
PRESCOTT Despite the cool and rainy weather, the staff at Prescott's Centennial pool is getting ready for what is expected to be another refreshing summer splashing around down by the waterfront.
The pool staff is offering a number of programs again this season, with the addition of, for example, the open class for their swim team.
Another change that the staff is excited about is their new Tot Dock, an adjustable platform to be used by the younger swimmers in the swallow end of the pool.
The swimming lessons are in four sessions, spread over the course of the summer. Swimming lessons can start for toddlers and pre-school children under the age of three in the AquaTots program. Meanwhile AquaQuest is a 12-step program designed to develop swimming safety, skills and strokes for children three and up. The lessons are Red Cross approved programs.
The first session of swimming lessons begins on Monday, July 3 and runs until Monday, July 17. (Lessons will run weekdays, between 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and registration will take place one week before the session begins.) Session two begins on Tuesday, July 18 and finishes Tuesday, August 1, followed by session three beginning on Wednesday, August 2 until Thursday, August 17. The final session starts Friday, August 18 and wraps up Friday, Sept. 1.
Also available are Royal Life swimming lessons at the Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross levels.
Supervisor Jaylene Merritt says that most children require at least two sessions before they are able to move onto the next level. As children move up through the program, she added, the difficulty level does increase.
The lesson times vary, with the AquaTot and AquaQuest programs, 1 to 8, lasting 30 minutes, while levels 9 to 12 are bumped up to 45 minutes.
Merritt says they try to schedule families who have more than one child enrolled in the swimming programs as close together as possible. Unfortunately, it is not always possible. But with the new Tot Dock, which the staff will be raising money for over the course of the summer to repay the town for purchasing it, a third children's class can be scheduled in the shallow end of the pool, which should help in increasing the flexibility of scheduling swimmers.
The swim team is also gearing up for another summer. The team already has 18 swimmers signed up. Last year, the team was about 30 members deep, but with the addition of a senior team, ages 15 to 18, the team may swell in numbers. Already the team includes five open-class swimmers.
It is noted that the team's focus is to have fun while working on improving both the swimmers strokes and swim times.
The team is broken down into several age groups, starting with youngest, the Under-6 swimmers. Two age groups of swimmers are in each class until the senior level for 15- to 18-year-olds, who compete in an open class.
For example, the next class up from the Under-6 is the 7- and 8-year-olds, followed by the 9- and 10-year-olds. The team will host their own swim meet during the season as well as attend a number of area meets. The team practices Monday to Friday 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
This year's staff is comprised of supervisor Jaylene Merritt, who is in her sixth year with the Centennial pool, Becky Hubbard, assistant supervisor, Lesley Hubbard, lifeguard/instructor, Eric Humes, lifeguard/instructor, Jarrod Whelan, lifeguard/instructor, and Jenna Merritt, assistant lifeguard/instructor.
For more information, call 925-0762.
By JEFF LEE - Journal Staff
The Under-13 boys Gunners were able to get out of their two-game slump with a recent 4-4 tie.
Not only were the Gunners not on the losing end of a game, but also for the first time this season, they were able to get off to a quick start, taking a 3-0 lead in the first half. Unfortunately, they couldn't hold onto the lead they had built up and ended up with a 4-4 tie against Arnprior United. Scoring for the Gunners were Ryan Landon, Jon Baldwin, and Matt Hayes.
The second half saw the Gunners being in the unusual position of having to protect a lead rather than play catch up. They did, however, manage to salvage the win, respectable when as a team had never been in that situation before. Good efforts were put forth by all, especially Mike Armstrong and Jon Baldwin, who both dominated throughout the game.
In the Gunners' first game of the season, the team lost 4-1. However, Jacob McGuire had an outstanding game, and Nick Maggio scored the Gunners' only goal.
Game two saw the Gunners' record their second loss of the season, 4-2 to Russell. It was a tough loss for the Gunners. They dominated most of the second half but could only muster two goals as their attempted comeback from a three goal deficit in the first half fell short.
Worse than the loss was the injury to Luke Beckstead, a player the Gunners' will surely miss while he is recovering. Nick Maggio and Brandon Bailey dominated the play against Russell, and Matt Hayes fired home both of the Gunners' goals.
Under-13 girls
The Under-13 girls Gunners, who compete in the Ottawa Carleton Soccer League, beat Almonte 2-0.
Under-11 boys
Meanwhile, the Under-11 boys team, who compete in the same league, stung the Kanata Yellow Jackets 4-0 Thursday. Scoring for the Prescott Gunners were Gavin Bush, Matt Cockshott, Josh Whelan and Nick Francica.
Mens Division 2
The men's team, who compete in Division 2, have had a slow start to this year's season, managing only one tie and two defeats in their first three games, but their dominance at home continues.
For the squad, home field advantage has been good to them, with only one loss in three years in Prescott. Against Chelsea, it would be no different.
Only last week, Chelsea had pounded and dominated the Gunners', beating them 7-0, but at home, it was a different story.
Although reportedly the Gunners' squad felt they could beat Chelsea, they still had to prove it.
Early in the first half, the Gunners' had numerous scoring opportunities from JFK and Quincy Martin, but it wasn't until Wade Mooney sent Dan Powers in on a breakaway with a beautiful pass, which Deko lifted over the attacking keeper and into the empty net, that the squad was able to get on the board.
The second goal sealed the victory for the Gunners. Off a long throw in, Quincy took the ball down and pushed it up to Steve McCurdy.
Crowbar then curled the ball into the top corner of the net. Boomer's continued support and sponsorship is appreciated.
The Gunners play July 5 and 12 at the RCA (Wolfgang Noe) Park. Come out and cheer them on or visit their web site at www.recorder.ca/gunners
Men's Division 8
Prescott's division 8 Gunners are cleaning up the league in the early stages of the season.
With three wins out of four starts, the Gunners have placed themselves in the front of the pack.
Two quick wins were followed by a loss before the Gunners rebounded for their third win of the season. (Wins were 3-1, 3-0 and 3-1. The loss was 3-0.)
In the Gunners' forth game of the 2000 season, they beat St. Anthony's 3-1. Gunners' Matt Tyo had two, while Jason Beckstead picked up the single.
Both Matt Todd and Alex Hermans have been solid in net, while Chris Lenko, Artie Hitsman and Adam Turnball have set the tone on defence, which has always been a source of pride for the Gunners. Tyo and Jason Beckstead have five of four goals respectively for the team. A thank you goes out to Prescott Glass and Web Exteriors.
POTSDAM The Upper Canada Ice finished up the season with two out of four wins at the Potsdam tournament.
Their first win was in overtime against Pennsylvania, 75-72. In game two, the Ice fell to Adirondack of N.Y. 66-55. Albany also from N.Y. easily defeated the Ice 60-33 on their way to winning the tournament. The Ice ended the tournament with a 69-51 win over South Finger Lakes of N.Y.
The game against Pennsylvania was a back and forth battle, with the lead changing hands many times over the course of the game. The free throw line seemed to be a second home for the Ice, converting 26 of 38 appearances at the line.
Leading the scoring for the Ice was Richard Groniger with 19 points, followed by Nico Gysbers with 18 and then Alex Last with 14. Adam Smith pulled down nine rebounds, while Groniger had seven.
Ice 55, Adirondack 66
Against Adirondack, the Ice were up 34-32 at the half but by the final buzzer had lost 66-55. The game was close, but Adirondack managed to gain control in the forth quarter, going on a 13-0 run.
Nico Gysbers lead this team in scoring with 14 points. James Delegarde and Groniger each had eight points and Mitch Grange had seven. Smith lead the Ice in rebounds with nine. Mike Coulter and Alex Last each had five.
Ice 33, Albany 60
In game three against Albany, the game was a blow out for the Ice. The Ice trailed from the start, losing 60-33.
Gysbers pitched in with seven points to the lead the Ice in scoring. Coulter had six while Delegarde had five.
Once again Smith led the team in rebounds with five. Last had four.
Ice 69, Finger Lakes 51
The Ice turned things around in their final game of the tournament, handily beating South Finger Lakes 69-51.
The Ice were able to use their fast break. Mitch Grange and Delegarde helped push the tempo and lead the break. Despite an ankle injury, Last played a great game, shutting down the opponents top scorer.
Leading the Ice in points was Gysbers with 19, Groniger with 17 and Last with 12, who also pulled down 10 rebounds. Hanes contributed with seven rebounds.
The Potsdam tournament was the Upper Canada Ice Basketball Club's last tournament. The club appreciated the players' commitment and dedication to the program.
Each of the following players have contributed many long hours toward the development of the Upper Canada Basketball program.
Mike Coulter of South Grenville District High School, Richard Groniger of Seaway District High School, Nico Gysbers of Thousand Islands Secondary School, Dave Patterson of North Grenville District High School and Adam Smith of Thousand Islands Secondary School.
The South Grenville District High School fields Saturday were a hub of activity as the Under-6 (junior tyke) soccer players did battle in week five of the Prescott and District Minor Soccer Association's season.
Beck's Construction secured a 2-0 win over Hometown Heating. Jeremy Locke scored both of Beck's goals.
Matt Edgley scored both goals for Lane's Smoke Shop for the 2-0 win over the Prescott Chiros.
Grenville Fish and Game's Joey Sargent was the top scorer with two goals in the team's win over Brent Scott Insurance. The Insurance failed to break Grenville's shut out as they went on to a 4-0 win. Justin Noccey and Sloan Jarvis picked up Grenville's other two goals.
Tichborne Auto Supply had all the right parts in the match up against Tropical Pool Service. Tichborne took the 2-0 win over Tropical Pool, with Brett Van Stralen scoring both of Tichborne's goals.
Alex Stephenson and Alex Modler supplied the goals for Playit Star in the team's 3-0 win over Hometown Heating. Stephenson netted two, while Modler picked up the single.
Tichborne Auto Supply wasn't able to get a second win Saturday when they faced Lane's Smoke Shop. Lane's mustered up a 4-0 win over Tichborne. Goals were divvied up evenly among Lane's players. Matt Edgley, Matt Boyd, Mike Barkley and Jesse Boyd each scored a goal in their team's win.
Grenville Fish and Game seemed to be rolling along Saturday as they snagged their second win of the day against Beck's Construction. Grenville's Sloan Jarvis scored two out of the three goals in the 3-1 win over Beck's. Joey Sargent netted the other goal. Jeremy Locke scored for Beck's.
Brent Scott Insurance seemed to be having a tough Saturday, losing two. Their second loss was a close one against Prescott Chiros. Chiros took the 1-0 win. Spencer Merkley scored the goal.
Under 8 (senior tyke)
In Monday's play, Windmill Web Spiders drubbed Playit Star 5-1. Curtis Lavery netted three goals, while Sean Perrin picked up two. Playit's Cody Liezert scored their lone goal.
DBL Computing squeezed out a 4-3 win over Freer Electric. DBL's Ryan Van Stralen and Josh Pitt both scored two goals in their team's win. Mitchell Grant scored two for Freer, while Richard Grant scored a single.
Johnstown Duty Free beat Prescott IDA 4-1. Ben Hutton scored three out of the four goals for Johnstown. Wayne Noonan netted a single for Johnstown. Chad McCauley scored for Prescott.
SLP Printing Devils tied the Colour Pallette 1-1. Matthew Suatac scored for SLP, while Jacob Scott scored for the Pallette.
On Wednesday, Prescott IDA seemed to have found the cure for winning as they beat the Colour Pallette 2-0. Austin Murphy and Chad McCauley split the goal scoring duties for Prescott.
Windmill Web Spiders faced off against the SLP Printing Devils, with the Spiders netting the 4-0 win over the Devils. Cody Patend scored three for the Spiders and Deanna Molson scored a single.
Playit Star beat Freer Electrical 4-2. Scott Stevenson had the scoring touch Wednesday as he netted three of Playit's four goals. Jessica Francica didn't do too badly herself with a goal of her own. For Freer, Braden Smith and Mitchell Grant both scored singles.
Johnstown Duty Free and Grenville Pharmacy played to a 2-2 tie. Ben Hutton scored both of Johnstown's goals. For Grenville, Caitlin Blaedow and Cody James each scored a goal.
Under 10 (atom)
Bank of Montreal beat Mac's 3-1. Reilly Grootjans scored two, while Josh Beckstead netted a single. Jason Amell scored for Mac's.
There seemed to be no stopping Beach Home Hardware as they rolled over Kriska 6-0 Monday. Christian Knapp was Beach's high scorer with three, followed by Allen Waddell with two. Payton Williams picked up a single.
Prescott Kiwanis tied Splash Well Drilling 2-2. Prescott's Steve Moulton and Jeffery Moulton each netted singles, while Josh Perrin and Kailee Byers scored for Splash Well Drilling.
Prophet's Trophies Curtis Biccum seemed to be on fire in the team's 4-1 win over Toronto Dominion Bank. Biccum scored the three out of four Trophies' goals. Kyle Beaudoin scored a single. Meanwhile, Nick Perry scored the lone goal for TD.
The Royal Bank beat Beck's 5-1. Robbie Deeks score two, while teammates Justin Sutherland, Hawk Heykoop and Jason Deeks picked up singles. Brock Murphy scored Becker's only goal.
Prescott Kinsmen edged out Hansen Cavity Kickers 3-2. Trevor Madden scored Prescott's three goals. Jamie Clare and Larry Lerour scored for Hansen.
In Wednesday's action, the two banks went head-to-head, and with Royal Bank's convincing win Monday, it was probably no surprise that they came out on top over the Toronto Dominion Bank. Hawk Heykoop scored two of five goals for the Royal Bank. Singles went to Tatyana, Robbie Deeks and Brandon Spencer. For the TD Bank, Nick Perry and Collin Grant each scored singles.
Beach Home Hardware played Becker's to a 2-2 tie Wednesday. Scoring was divided up among both teams' players, with Beach's Ryan McMullin and Christian Knapp scoring singles and Brock Murphy and Andrew Bernard reciprocating.
A low scoring game between the Prescott Kinsmen and Mac's resulted in a 1-1 tie. Kinsmen's Torin Marcynuk and Mac's Mike Thomas each scored for their team.
Prophet's Curtis Biccum is on fire. With three of the four goals in Monday's win over the Toronto Dominion Bank, Biccum netted six of the team's seven goals in Wednesday's win over Splash Well Drilling. Troy Armstrong netted a single.
It wasn't Kriska's week. In two games, the team was only able to score one goal, which came in the 3-1 loss Wednesday against the Bank of Montreal. Allanna Lasenba scored for Kriska. For the Bank, Jordan Grootjans scored two and Reilly Grootjans picked up the single.
Under 12 (mosquito)
On Monday, Delphi Solutions beat the Techcan Titans, 4-1. Delphi's Chad Hyland netted two, while Joel Haystead and Alex Suatac scored singles.
Titans' Sam Whitley scored his team's only goal.
Seaway Valley Pharmacy's Michele Marchard and DWJ Plumbing's Dennis Heldens each scored their team's only goals in the 1-1 tie.
The Shriners scored two and Giant Tiger scored one in Monday's game. Shriners' Clayton Dunnington scored both goals, while Nick Gould scored the Tigers' only goal.
DWJ Pluming's Jacob Casselman scored the only goal of the game, the match up between DWJ and the Giant Tiger.
Techcan Titans beat the Shriners 2-1. Jonathon Arcand and Jason Witteveen both scored singles for the Titans, while Clayton Dunnington netted the Shriners' only goal.
Delphi Solutions' Chad Hyland fired into the net as Delphi beat Seaway Valley Pharmacy 6-2. Joel Haystead and Kyle Towe scored Delphi's other two goals. Seaway's goal scorers were Chris Farrell and Joel Jodoin.
Under 16 (peewee)
Nitrochem's Brandon McFarland and Logan Gillard combined for the team's 2-1 win over Playit Star.
Matt Fahrngruber scored for Playit Star.
Gateway Packaging beat Watermark Printing 5-1. Gateway's Kyle Davy scored two, while Johnathon MacIntosh, David Wallace each picked up singles.
On Thursday, Kriska and Gateway Packaging played to a 2-2 tie. Mark Jenkins scored both of Kriska's goals. Johnathon MacIntosh and Aaron Lavalee scored singles for Gateway.
Nitrochem seemed to have the right mix Thursday when they faced Watermark Printing. Nitrochem beat Watermark 5-1. Ryan O'Brien scored two for Nitrochem, while singles went to Shannon Davidson, Logan Gillard and Brandon McFarland. Watermark's Adam Findlay scored the single.
PRESCOTT Youth for Life is looking for teams to participate in its slo-pitch fundraiser at the RCA ball diamonds here Saturday, July 8 and Sunday, July 9. Umpires will be supplied. Each team is required to have an even number of men and women, The top two winning teams will receive cash prizes. A canteen is planned. There will be a lottery table with prizes supplied by local businesses. Proceeds go to Youth for Life. For more information, call Leslie Ross, Youth for Life co-ordinator at 925-2004 (home) or 925-4376.