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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 |
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By Jon Kuiperij - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - Theodore Too, the 65-foot tugboat with the shiny red baseball cap, moving eyes and five-foot smile, took a break from his busy schedule to stop in Prescott last week.
The boat, based on the popular CBC and PBS children's television show Theodore Tugboat, arrived at the town dock Thursday afternoon and remained in Prescott until Saturday morning. Children and adults alike were able to look at the boat, talk to the crew and take pictures.
Cody Smith, a nine-year-old from North Augusta, said he doesn't watch the television show anymore but remembered how much he enjoyed it when he saw the ship.
"It was funny," he said. "It taught us never to go out alone, to tell others when we go out on a ride, to hang on and to always wear a life jacket."
"It taught him moral lessons," added Dianne Smith, Cody's mother.
Theodore Too was on the way back from a tour of the Great Lakes, when he went as far as Chicago, Illinois. Ship captain Bill Stewart said Theodore always has an audience waiting for him whenever he stops.
"We had 16,000 people tour through the boat in four days in Chicago on Labour Day weekend," he said.
"The boat is very much a hit."
Stewart said Theodore planned to stop in Prescott on the way into the Great Lakes but was unable to due to complications. However, Stewart made certain to stop in on the way back.
"We have had many requests to stop here, and we weren't about to ignore them," he said. Stewart added Ruth Hoover of Prescott Coast Guard was instrumental in organizing the stop.
Theodore Too, designed to educate children about water safety and to promote the television show, is based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, but has hardly been at home since he was launched last April.
Before the tour of the Great Lakes, Theodore visted major cities on the eastern seaboard of North America, including New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston and Tampa Bay.
Stewart said he has put 15,000 miles on the boat in 17 months. After leaving Prescott, he said, Theodore Too will be heading directly home, stopping only for fuel.
Since Theodore Tugboat is popular all over the world, a trip abroad was discussed by Stewart and Cochran Entertainment, producer of the television series and owner of the boat.
"It's especially popular in Australia," Stewart said. "However, the cost of going over there would be astronomical, almost as much as building another Theodore."
Stewart said construction of another Theodore for tour in other parts of the world is a possibility.
To follow Theodore's adventures, learn about water safety and find updates on scheduled stops, go online to his web site at www.theodoretugboat.com.
By Tim Ruhnke -Journal Editor
PRESCOTT The 2001 tourist season was a good one at Fort Wellington National Historic Site.
Although year-end totals are unavailable, the Parks Canada facility reports a 20-per-cent increase in casual visits and a 60-per-cent increase in group visits as of mid-September. Superintendent Pam Buell described the summer season as "excellent."
Buell said attendance has been better this year than in the past few years. Favourable weather conditions and special events were among the reasons cited for the upswing in visits. Staff are "heaving a sigh of relief" now that the busy summer season has come to an end, Buell noted.
Approximately 14,500 people visited Fort Wellington in 2000.
Shadows of the Fort, a Thursday evening presentation featuring stories and re-enactments of what life may have been like at the fort in the first half of the 19th century, played to sell-out crowds in July and August. "We were actually turning people away," Buell said.
Partnerships with Tourism Prescott and other organizations and businesses are expected to continue, according to Buell. Special events such as the RCMP Musical Ride and the Highland Tattoo brought large crowds to the fort.
"It seems to be the way we are doing business now," she said.
In addition to six full-time staff, the fort has many seasonal positions. Nine college and university students were employed as part of a federal summer work program. Five high school students two local and three from outside the area took part in the Young Canada Works initiative.
Staff at the fort also noted additional stops in Prescott by cruise ships had a positive effect on visitation. Elizabeth Pilon, chief of visitor activities at the fort, said much of the increase in group visits can be attributed to weekly stops by the Cape May Light. Groups from the Canadian Empress continue to visit the fort; the ship has three more scheduled stops in Prescott this month.
The fort is not open to the public for casual visits this fall. Groups of 10 or more can make appointments to visit the fort. In addition to visits by cruise ship passengers, school students from across the region will tour the fort this fall.
The fort's Christmas program involving local students is also in the works.
As for new programs, Buell said the fort will continue to host special events and build on its Shadows of the Fort program. Plans are underway to develop a package in conjunction with Upper Canada Village.
Parks Canada is also responsible for the Windmill Point site east of Prescott. The Friends of Windmill Point group operates the site during the summer season; some of the students who work at the fort also put in time at the point. Buell said the site also had a good season this year.
PRESCOTT Fee increases are being proposed at Fort Wellington and other national historic sites in Eastern Ontario.
"As part of their long-term budget planning, a number of sites have proposed moderate increases to their entrance, touring, program and other service fees," stated a Parks Canada news release issued Friday.
Fees have not increased in three years, according to Kevin Fox of Parks Canada's Eastern Ontario Field Unit. The proposed increases are intended to bring fees in line with other parks, attractions and commercial operators in the region, Fox noted.
In the case of Fort Wellington, admission fees would increase by $1 in 2002-03 and $1 in 2003-04. The current fees are $3 for adults, $2.50 for seniors and $1.50 for students. Free admission would remain in place for children under the age of 6.
The other sites affected by the proposed changes are Bellevue House in Kingston, Laurier House in Ottawa, St. Lawrence Islands National Park at Mallorytown Landing and the Rideau Canal.
Fox indicated public input would be accepted until about the end of October.
For more information about current and proposed user fees at Parks Canada facilities, contact Fox at (613) 359-5377.
PRESCOTT The elimination of VIA Rail stops in Prescott is part of an effort to improve passenger service in the Montreal-Toronto corridor, according to a company spokesperson.
VIA announced early last week it will end its Prescott stops Oct. 28. One eastbound and one westbound train stops in town weekday evenings. Several other VIA trains use the CN line each day but do not stop in Prescott.
VIA is also eliminating stops in Maxville and Trenton as part of its consolidation of stations.
The number of passengers making use of the Prescott stops has been decreasing for several years, according to VIA representative Catherine Kaloutsky. An average of less than three people per day would make use of the stops in any of the three communities, according to VIA. Prescott's average was much lower, although Kaloutsky did not have exact figures available when interviewed Thursday.
"We do understand this decision may not have been very welcomed..." she said. "But we had to look at the real numbers. There are hard decisions that have to be made."
Prescott's proximity to a full-service train station in Brockville was another factor in the decision-making process. None of the three communities losing their VIA stops has a train station that is open to the public or where tickets are sold. The Prescott station has been closed for many years. Each community is within 20 minutes of larger VIA stations, Kaloutsky noted.
People from the Prescott area have been using the Brockville station because of its many daily departures and arrivals, she indicated.
The consolidation of smaller stations in the Montreal-Toronto corridor is meant to provide better customer service, according to Kaloutsky. VIA is also introducing new equipment to the corridor as part of a major investment by the federal government.
Passengers want more express trains between major centres, according to Kaloutsky. The reality is service in urban communities has an impact on local service, she said.
Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn, who noted he is a fairly regular VIA customer who has often made use of the Prescott stop, said VIA should have considered morning stops in an effort to increase ridership in this area. The number of people getting on the westbound train in the evening is much lower than the number who arrive on the eastbound train.
Although he does not take issue with VIA's claims of decreasing ridership, Lawn indicated last week the elimination of local stops is a loss to the community.
SOUTH GRENVILLE Fire Prevention Week has arrived, and fire departments in Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal are asking the public to "cover the bases and strike out fire."
Town firefighters will have a booth set up this Saturday, Oct. 13 at the Tim Hortons outlet on Edward Street. Firefighters will be handing out fire prevention materials from 9 am to 1 pm. Visitors can get a close-up look at a fire truck, and receive information about fire safety and prevention and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
The Augusta Fire Department will be giving fire extinguisher demonstrations later this month to local recreation groups.
PRESCOTT A roast beef dinner will be held Saturday, Oct. 13 at the Friendship Hall on Henry Street West.
Dinner will be served at 4:30 pm and 6 pm. Take-out orders will be available.
For tickets, call 925-4784, 925-4957 or 925-2076. There is no guarantee tickets will be available at the door.
The dinner is being presented by the Rebekahs and Odd Fellows.
PRESCOTT The Knights of Columbus will present an Octoberfest dinner Sunday, Oct. 14 at St. Mark's Parish Centre.
The buffet dinner will be served at 5 pm. Dinner includes Octoberfest sausage, sauerkraut, potatoes and dessert. A cash bar will be available.
Free Octoberfest beer steins will be given to the first 100 customers.
Proceeds from the event will go to Knights of Columbus community projects.
For ticket information, call 925-3610 or 925-3446.
PRESCOTT Music that promises to raise the roof will be presented Sunday, Oct. 14 at 7 pm at St. Paul's Church, corner of Dibble and George streets.
The folk night will feature the St. Paul's Folk Choir and the Old Friends Band.
A goodwill offering will take place, with proceeds going to the church's roof fund.
PRESCOTT Another sure sign of the changing seasons was evident at town council earlier this month.
Council approved a request from the Fort Town Boosters and the Prescott Fire Department for assistance in staging the annual "Light Up the Night" event.
The 2001 edition of the Santa Claus parade and stage show will take place Friday, Nov. 23. ilgave its approval to a number of street closures and the use of the municipal parking lot and town dock area for the stage show and fireworks display.
By Monica Whitney - Journal Staff Writer
Kristen Echlin won't soon forget her special summer adventure that she hopes she can enjoy again.
The 12-year-old girl who lives near Maynard has insulin-dependent diabetes. This summer, she was able to attend Camp Banting on Christie Lake near Perth, a medically supervised camp founded in 1953 for children with diabetes.
Kristen said she was able to share experiences with other campers just like herself, and even some of the camp counsellors have diabetes.
"Before I thought I was the only person in the world (with diabetes)," Kristen said, noting many people don't understand the illness that forces her to inject herself with a needle twice a day for the rest of her life. She said she feels better knowing there are other kids just like herself.
"The best part of the camp was meeting a whole bunch of other kids who have diabetes, and going in a boat, because I never got to go in a boat before," Kristen said, recalling her experience.
During the two-week camp, Kristen was able to go kayaking, canoeing, paddle boating, swimming and hiking. She also had an overnight camping trip away from the main base, where campers stay in cabins.
She was shown proper ways of administering her diabetes, through meal plans, food choices and balancing physical activity. She was also shown the proper method of pricking her finger to test her blood sugar level, and how to give herself the insulin injections.
But, she explained, "mostly I just had fun." She was also able to enjoy some ice cream and chocolate cake, which are allowed in moderation and if balanced with other food choices and activity level.
"I have to be careful," she said.
Kristen said she made many friends at the camp from Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto and Brockville, and she stays in touch with them.
Gym is Kristen's favourite activity at Maynard Public School, where she is in Grade 7. She was a player on the school's championship basketball team last year, and hopes to make the team again this year. She has a sister, Karen, who is almost 11, and an eight-year-old brother, Dylan.
Kristen was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes when she was eight years old. She had had flu-like symptoms for a longer than usual time period. She had felt ill at school during the day, and that evening was not able to move off the couch. Kristen said her family told her later she looked dead. She spent the next week in hospital, and had she not received immediate medical attention, Kristen could have slipped into a life-threatening coma.
She hopes some day to be fitted with an expensive MiniMed pump that acts like an artificial pancreas to better control the highs and lows of blood sugar levels, and which would replace the daily injections. "I hope for no more needles."
Kristen's camp adventure was funded by the Tri-County (Grenville, Leeds and Lanark) Branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association. Without the group's support, she would not have been able to attend.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and door-to-door canvassing begins in mid-October. The Ontario division goal is to raise $240,000, and the target for the Tri-County Branch is $25,000. These funds will help provide more children with a camp experience, said local campaign organizer Darlean Coulter.
The Canadian Diabetes Association works to prevent diabetes and improve the quality of life for those affected through research, education, service and advocacy.
Diabetes consumes an estimated $9 billion each year in health care costs. More than two million Canadians have diabetes, and that number is expected to grow to three million by 2010.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that has no cure and is a leading cause of death of disease. If left untreated or improperly managed, the high levels of blood sugar associated with diabetes can slowing damage both the small and large blood vessels in the body, resulting in a variety of complications.
The disease is a leading cause of adult blindness; heart disease is three to six times more common in people with diabetes; and half or more of all non-accident-related leg amputations are due to diabetes. Diabetes accounts for 25 per cent of all new cases of serious kidney disease.
Symptoms of diabetes include frequent urination, changes in appetite, extreme fatigue, blurred vision, unusual thirst, unexplained weight loss, irritability and tingling in the hands or feet.
PRESCOTT A free education program designed for adults with Type 2 diabetes will begin in Prescott Wednesday, Nov. 7 from 1 to 3 pm.
The One Step Closer Diabetes Education Program includes four weekly sessions. Preregistration is required. To register or for more information, call the Rideau Valley Diabetes Project at 1-877-321-4500.
Nurses, dietitians and chiropodists will provide information on eating well with diabetes, exercise, self-monitoring of blood glucose, stress and emotions, preventing complications, medication, foot care and changing behaviour.
Participants will have the opportunity to meet individually with the dietitian and receive a foot assessment by the chiropodist.
PRESCOTT The Fort Town Concert Association opens its 2001-2002 season next week.
The Impact Brass Quintet will appear Tuesday, Oct. 16 at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church on Centre Street. The concert begins at 8 pm.
The quintet was founded in 1995. Its members trained at the Conservatoire de musique du Québec. The quintet consists of trumpets, horn, trombone and tuba; it plays a wide range of short works, from renaissance hunting calls to jazz numbers, accompanied be a lively and humourous commentary.
The Prescott concert is part of a tour of 24 communities in Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick.
The concert series is presented in association with Jeunesses Musicales of Canada, an organization that helps bring fine music to communities throughout the country. The next concert featuring pianist Stewart Goodyear will take place Nov. 15. The Joe Trio (violin, cello and piano) is scheduled to perform in Prescott Feb. 21. The final event of the Fort Town season will be a presentation of the operatic masterpiece Cosi fan tutte.
The Oct. 16 concert is sponsored by the Town of Prescott.
Tickets will be available at the door. Subscriptions for the four concerts in the series are also on sale.
For more information, call 925-5050 or 925-3200.
PRESCOTT - Check out a book from the Prescott Public Library during Public Library Week Oct. 15 to 20 and you could win an adult or children's gift basket.
This will be just one of several draws during the week, which will culminate with an open house Saturday, Oct. 20 with coffee and home-baked treats for everyone throughout the day and special guests making draws and presentations at 3 p.m. The gift baskets are donated by Nestle Canada Inc. The library's hours will be 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the Saturday Open House.
Colouring contest
The library is also holding a colouring contest in conjunction with Library Week to encourage children and their parents to get to know their local library, where membership is free to anyone who lives in Prescott and affordable for those living outside the town. For the contest, children can colour a picture of Eeyore (the donkey from Winnie the Pooh) and bring it to the library. The colouring sheets are available at the library or through primary or kindergarten teachers at Central, Boundary and St. Mark schools. The coloured artwork will be proudly posted and the child's name entered in a draw for a gift basket.
Quilt winner to be announced
Until Oct. 20, the library will continue to sell tickets on a hand-made quilt donated by the Presbyterian Church Women. Proceeds go to the library book fund. During the open house Oct. 20, the winning ticket will be drawn at 3 p.m. The winners will also be drawn from among the entrants to the colouring contest and those who checked out books during the week.
Book sale
The library's Fall Book Sale will begin Monday, Oct. 15. It's a great chance to start your Christmas shopping early and support the library! Children's and adult's books will be available.
Sign up for family portraits
During Library Week, people will have a chance to reserve their session times for family portraits to be taken Saturday, Oct. 27 to raise funds for library books. Professional photographer Christine Endicott will take family portraits at the Prescott Fire Hall from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 27. The fee is to be paid at the time of booking, and all proceeds will be donated to the library's book fund. Families will be able to order portrait packages in time for Christmas from the proofs, which will be available for viewing and ordering Nov. 3-10. For information, call the library at 925-4340 or Endicott at 925-1486.
Halloween party
Earlier in the day Oct. 20, from 11 a.m. to noon, volunteer Sue Torrance will hold a special Halloween crafts session for children. Children are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes when they come to make the spider craft with Sue. The children will also receive goodies. There is no charge for the craft session but pre-registration is necessary.
Please call the library at 925-4340 to register.
Amnesty
During Public Library Week Oct. 15-20, you can return any overdue library books or other library materials without having to pay overdue fines. Please check for any library books or materials you may have around the house and return them during library week. No questions will be asked!
PRESCOTT A monster yard sale will take place this Friday, Oct. 12 and Saturday, Oct. 13 at St. Paul's United Church.
The sale will run from 7 to 10 pm on Friday and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturday. There will be a concession stand; a bake sale will be held Oct. 13.
The public may rent tables to sell their own wares at the yard sale; proceeds from table rentals will go to the church's building fund.
For more information, contact the church at 925-2795 or call Gerry Carey at 925-3539 or Matt Hayes at 925-4091.
St. Paul's United Church is located at the corner of Dibble and George streets.
AUGUSTA A home on County Road 26 was ransacked Oct. 5. A variety of kitchenware and alcohol was taken from the residence. A suspect vehicle was described as a late-model gold Dodge with partial Ontario licence plate number AK41. Anyone with information on the vehicle or break-in is asked to contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
AUGUSTA Grenville County OPP were dispatched Oct. 4 to a mischief complaint at a residence on Algonquin Road. White paint had been smeared on a garage door; an obscene word was painted on the door. The investigation continues; anyone with information is asked to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
AUGUSTA Three occupants of a vehicle stopped Oct. 7 on County Road 2 were found to have been consuming alcohol. Two 18-year-old males from Brockville and a 17-year-old male were charged with being under 19 and consuming liquor, according to an OPP news release.
SPENCERVILLE The 82nd annual Grenville County Plowing Match took place Sept. 29 at the Spencerville-area farm of Tim and Diane Bernard. The results of the various competitions follow.
Class 1A - Jointer plows: horses open
first: Gabriel LeCavalier, Hammond. second; Alan Moulton, Spencerville; third: Elswood Gamble, Lyndhurst.
Class 2 - Tractors: two furrow plows open
first: Ron Stinson, North Gower; second: Jim McRae, Kanata; third: George Burns, Lansdowne.
Class 3 - Tractors: mounted utility
first: Brian Maitland, Jasper; second: Allan Wilson, Merrickville
Class 4 - Two or more furrows, for competitors 20 years or under
first: Nicholas Wilson, Merrickville; Mark Foster, Carleton Place; third: Morgan Stinson, North Gower; fourth: Robert Maitland, Jasper; fifth: Michael Maitland, Jasper
Class 5 - 4-H Clubs
first: Ronnie Maitland, Jasper; second: Matthew Maitland, Jasper; third Jeremy Wilson, Merrickville; fourth: Kyle Somerville, Spencerville; fifth Jeff Maitland, Jasper; sixth: Thomas Ferguson
Class 6A - Antique tractors and plows
first: Gary McEwen, Carleton Place; second: Peter Myers, Portland; third: Crystal Throop, Spencerville; fourth: Marvin Dillon, Orleans; fifth: Lyle Streight, Lanark; sixth: Glenn Sample, Smiths Falls; seventh: Galen Coote, Frankville
Class 6B - Horses, sulky plows
first: George Casey, Wolfe Island
Special awards
* Best plowed land, best crown in tractor class and best finish in tractor class: Ron Stinson
* Best crown in class 1A and best going team: Gabriel LeCavalier
* Best finish in Class 1A: Allan Moulton
* Best open split 4-H Class 5: Jeremy Wilson
* Best lady competitor: Crystal Throop
* Best land in Class 4, top plow person for 4-H achievement day and winner of Class 4, under 20 years: Nicholas Wilson
* Oldest competitor: Lyle Streight
* Youngest competitor: Robert Maitland
* Best dressed team: Elswood Gamble
* Top 4-H plow person in Class 5: Ronnie Maitland
PRESCOTT A local physician is voicing his concerns about the actions of some police officers in the area.
Dr. John Findlay hosted a public meeting Sept. 26 at St. Mark's Parish Centre. Approximately 80 people attended the meeting.
Findlay made numerous comments of a general nature and referred to alleged incidents involving police officers in the Brockville and Prescott area. Some of his patients were involved in those alleged incidents, Findlay said.
The doctor also referred to his own encounters with police. Findlay said he has filed a lawsuit against two police officers and two crown attorneys, but he did not give further details.
Many in the crowd appeared to be very supportive. Some audience members expressed their own concerns about how they have been treated by police.
Staff Sergeant Brent Hill, Grenville County OPP detachment commander, told The Journal Sept. 28 he did not attend the meeting and did not send a representative from the detachment. In acknowledging people have a right to free speech, Hill said they should be careful not to slander others.
Police have a job to do, Hill noted. If some people do not like that, Hill added, there is not much he can do about it.
Prescott Police Chief Rick Bowie was on vacation and could not be reached for comment.
Findlay indicated at the Prescott meeting he was planning to host a meeting in Brockville in the next two weeks, and there are plans to have meetings in other communities.
SOUTH GRENVILLE The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) will host a service day Monday, Oct. 15 from 10 am to 3 pm at Wall Street United Church in Brockville. Those who are experiencing a vision loss or know of someone in that situation are invited to attend.
The CNIB assists anyone with a vision problem that cannot be corrected using ordinary lenses and that significantly affects a person's ability to function normally. "You don't have to be totally blind to use the services of the CNIB," stated CNIB District Manager Jane Hanley.
For more information, call the district office in Kingston at (613) 542-4975.
OTTAWA All Canadians should be aware of the ever-present danger of fire, according to the president of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs.
Ken Kelly noted fire remains a leading cause of accidental death among all ages of the population.
"With all the safety advances in home and building construction, fire-retardant furniture materials, and of course, the universal acceptance of smoke alarms, it sometimes seems as if fire is less of an issue," Kelly stated in a news release. "But fire does not discriminate, and the risk of fire hasn't gone away. Parents, children, seniors everyone should be mindful of fire safety."
Kelly, chief of the fire department in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, reminds Canadians there are some simple rules to apply in the home:
* Don't leave matches or lighters where small children can reach them;
* Don't leave burning candles unattended;
* Make sure you have smoke alarms on every level of your home, near all sleeping areas, and that the batteries are working. Replace any smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old;
* Prepare an escape plan for the family in the event of fire and practise it with all family members at least once a year;
* Make sure you have domestic fire extinguishers handy especially in the kitchen. Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers should be ULC-approved, and manufactured by a recognized brand name.)
October 7 to 13 is National Fire Prevention Week.
By Willy Sieling Heuvel
The trip to Stratford Wednesday, Oct. 17 leaves at 7:30 am. Please be on time as time is very important. We are attending the matinee in Stratford and have to be there for 1:15 pm.
Thanks to all who honoured me on my retirement party, gave me a beautiful eskimo carving and book and said nice things about me. I will long remember and visit Walker House for as long as I can. Andrew, Mayor Lawn, Valerie, Alice, Olive and all others: thank you very much. It was great.
Card game winners last week were: Monday bridge 1st, Audrey Kingston; 2nd, Ruth Britnell; Bea Hemsley won the door prize. Tuesday cribbage high hand, Jeannine Marion; high score, Jean Annable; 2nd, Sam Covey; 3rd, Myrtle Shahan. Wednesday evening bridge 1st, Margaret Nesbitt; 2nd, Audrey Kingston; Kitty Wormington won the door prize. Thursday euchre 1st, Eddie Arcand; 2nd, Pat McPhee; 3rd, Jessie Shaver; Gladys Somerville won the door prize.
Kristen Echlin, whose stay at a camp for children with diabetes is helping her cope.
A LOSS IS A LOSS: It is hard to argue against the numbers VIA Rail Canada cites as part of its decision to eliminate its stops in Prescott. Only a handful of passengers make use of the weeknight stops most weeks, and it is unrealistic to expect ridership will increase dramatically. The writing has been on the wall since the train station lost its staff and was closed to the public. The limited access to trains in Prescott, when combined with the fact Brockville has a full-service station with numerous arrival and departure times, gives VIA a convincing yet convenient position with respect to cutting its stops in the Fort Town. Similar circumstances are prompting VIA to cut stops in Maxville and Trenton as part of an effort to consolidate stations and improve its bread and butter express traffic between major centres like Toronto and Montreal.
The loss of service might not have a direct effect on many local residents, but the community should not overlook the symbolic importance of the move. Prescott was for generations a place in which freight and passenger rail services were an important part of the community. But there have been dozens of cities, towns and villages across Canada that have lost rail service during the past 20 years. There is some comfort in knowing access to passenger rail service will only be 20 kilometres away. Residents of the Upper Ottawa Valley have been without options since VIA cut its east-west route between Ottawa and Sudbury more than a decade ago. Even if the rail line remains in place, it is rare for a community to have passenger service restored. Unless South Grenville creates opportunities that result in more industry, residents and potential passengers, there is no point in hoping the folks at VIA will have a change of heart and make an actual effort to make the service more attractive to local users.
The numbers would suggest Prescott will not miss those VIA stops, but the decision marks the end of an important link to this community's past. It is now up to municipal leaders to see what they can do about the historic train station that is just sitting there, a shell of what it once was. It might be time for the town and CN to discuss the matter. Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan has suggested the ownership issue should be pursued. As much as repairs to the Boundary Street level crossing must be made a priority, consideration should be given to the status of the old train station. It's bad enough Prescott will no longer have a place on VIA's schedule; to lose a grand old building to neglect and indifference would only add insult to injury.
Tim Ruhnke
Monica Whitney
God, it's good to be home. Strange, because just a few days before this past weekend, we were saying, God, I can't wait to get away from here.
It was a carefully planned weekend - family camping and hiking amidst the coloured fall leaves, sunny, crisp days, songs and roasted marshmallows around the campfire, toasty warm sleeping bags at night.
It took days of preparation arranging work schedules, preparing food, clothing and bedding for six people for three or four days. We said it wouldn't matter if it rained a little.
What we didn't count on was if it rained a lot. And it did - non-stop. It started with a slight misty drizzle as we were setting up camp and by the time two tents and tarps were in place, coolers and camp stove off-loaded from the van and boxes of food set out on the picnic table, it was a pretty steady rain.
Forget the fire; the puff balls and shaggy manes were cooked on the Coleman. The chocolate-covered marshmallow cookies filled another void, and we spent a lot of time at the comfort station trying to dry out under the hand blowers. We were still pretty certain the rain would let up at some point and we could make a go of this.
But by nightfall, the tents were leaking from the top and gushing rain in at the bottom. The bedding was damp - soaked in some spots - and it was the coldest, wettest, most uncomfortable night of my life. Throughout the long hours of the black, wet night, with howling wind and pelting rain, I continually wondered if the nightmare would ever come to an end.
I wondered if we'd all be sick with pneumonia and how we would ever get out of this mess. Somehow, thankfully, we did, and less than 24 hours later from the time we left, we were home again - to a dry, warm comfortable house and loads of sopping laundry.
I've never felt so thankful. As I still try to shake off the chill of a nightmare night with a plate of roast turkey and stuffing before me, I realize how grateful I am for warmth; for a bed, for food at my fingertips, hot showers and dry clothes.
And yet, I realized, these are the simple things I came to expect in life. But they're not everyday things for a homeless or disadvantaged person, who may sleep hungry in the cold and wet every night - knowing there will never be a hot meal on his own table and a warm bed.
This Thanksgiving weekend, I learned what it means to be thankful for all I have. I only spent one night in the cold and rain. May God grant peace - and warmth and food - in our troubled world.
John A.H. Morris
No matter how much we mellow in our advancing years there are two issues at Hospice du Morris that will probably never become fully resolved. One is the master's receding shelf and drawer space in what was once a spacious walk-in clothes closet. The other is the oft-times overpowering female presence which consists of Mrs. Luci and Miss Maggie Metoo, reinforced quite regularly by daughter and grand daughter. Just try pouring more than one fluid ounce of Mr. Wiser's golden nectar with up to five pairs of ears cocked to hear just one over-sized gurgle.
The closet caper is a lost battle, we have concluded, in light of this fall's happenings. It all started in May when our family shaman sentenced us to a 1100 calorie diet. This didn't phase us at all until we found out it was 1100 calories per day and not per meal!
Anyway, it was enforced with the dedication of a prison warden, and to show us that misery likes company the camp cook subscribed to the same caloric shortcomings. Over the ensuing five months our bathroom scales squealed with delight as we dropped close to 40 pounds and the chief cook and calorie counter stepped off the scales at a svelte 20 pounds lighter.
To our delight the same trousers, jackets, shirts, sweaters, socks and even smalls that were snug at 255 lbs. weren't as snug at 215, yet not too loose. Hence our wardrobe stayed the same and even the closet space still evenly divided on a 75-25 basis.
Twenty pounds not only changes the female figure considerably, but also alters it by two or three sizes. Fortunately this did not mean shopping excursions by Mrs. M. and Master C., destined to lift the Canadian retailer sector out of its depressive doldrums. It just meant a trip to one of the empty rooms in our unused 1200-square-foot second floor, marked: "Mature Women's Fashions (Circa 1985-90, Manotick Era)".
When we saw this astounding apparition we had forgotten that we had started to draw our Canadian Pension, and survived a heart attack, had gained a pacemaker and bought a four-wheel walker since we last saw anything so attractive at the breakfast table. And we were further impressed when informed they were not new purchases, but had been recycled from what has been affectionately known as "Our Daughters Closet".
This euphoria became etherized a few days later when we ventured into our his-HERS closet in search of a long-sleeve dress shirt and found our seven shelves of storage space had become four. Upon enquiring about this shortfall we were informed that those empty shelves were for the 1985-90 era ski outfits that would be coming out of storage soon. We won't have to change sizes until we lose another 20 pounds, and when we do we are going out and buying some of those brand-name stylish duds like T. Hilfiger Boyles wears.
*****
We don't know if the small talk and hints are aimed at softening us up or if it's just our suspicious nature, but there is a possibility Miss Maggie Metoo might be getting a half-brother to pester.
Her Mom, Mrs. Luci, after about a year's estrangement, has been reunited with her ex, Mr. Suede, and the result is another blessed event in her brief life, scheduled from October 31. The whispers among the distaff side are that if there is a little brother he might be kept as a show dog-cum-daddy. If he is the size of Miss Maggie Metoo (four pounds) he would be a valuable little Yorkie.
High hopes as a stud were held out for Mrs. Luci's brother, Bridlington Jack (who showed under an alias to protect his real identity) who did very well in some of the larger show rings in North America the past year.
Trouble is, all this grooming and hair brushing, and what with the fancy topknots, ribbons and clasps in his hair, Bridlington Jack must have become confused about his own sexuality. This became painfully obvious when he was introduced to some of the prettiest little girl Yorkies in Eastern Ontario and he demonstrated absolutely no interest.
"No dear. I won't! Explaining it to Jeff 20 years ago was as committed as I care to get as a father or pseudo dad."
The Editor;
Whoever stole my American flag from my house, I hope that you took it for patriotic reasons and you will hang it at your house in good faith.
I hung the American flag not only for patriotic reasons but it also symbolizes my mother's, my own and my children's heritage.
The American flag was hung with my heart in support of America and my family, but especially my cousin who is in the United States of America air force. He is stationed in Turkey and he will be fighting for freedom against terrorism, not only for the United States of America, but for the entire world, Canada and yourself included.
I hope that you are not proud of the fact that you ripped not only my flag down, but you also ripped a big piece of my heart.
Steacy Skakum, Cardinal
ROEBUCK Roebuck United Church will begin its 85th anniversary celebrations this Friday, Oct. 12.
A commissioning service will be held at 7:30 pm for the three young people Donna Frank, Brenda Crowder and Ian Bain who will be heading out the next day to take part in a short-term mission in Jamaica. The service will be mostly musical, with worship being led by the Spencerville Roebuck Worship Team. Michael Trolly, who opened recently for the internationally famous contemporary Christian group Avalon, will perform, as will his mother, Melody Trolly. The Spencerville and Roebuck Youth Group BOYB (Bunch of Young Believers) will provide a musical "Jamaican Tribute."
Harmonia (an offshoot of the group Shekinah Glory) from Cedarview Alliance Church in Ottawa will perform at the Roebuck church Sunday, Oct. 14 at 7:30 pm. Harmonia will present a wide range of musical styles; there will be audience participation in praise and worship songs. Jazz guitarist Geoff Dresser will also perform.
Net proceeds from the concert will go to the Red Cross to assist its efforts following the Sept. 11 tragedy. A time of fellowship and refreshments will be offered following the concert.
The actual anniversary day celebration will take place Sunday, Oct. 21 at 3 pm. The musical service will be led by the Centennial Road Standard Church Praise Team from Brockville. A time of fellowship and refreshments will follow the service.
There are no admission charges for these events at Roebuck United Church, but free-will offerings will be received.
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE The United Way in Leeds and Grenville is offering four ways to win during its 2001 campaign.
The winner of the "Diner's Delight Restaurant Raffle" will receive $600 in gift certificates for dinner each month for one year at various area restaurants.
Tickets to an Ottawa Senators home game in December or January, dinner and a signed hockey jersey are up for grabs in two separate draws for adults and school kids registered at public or Catholic elementary schools in the region.
Both hockey draws will take place Nov. 30.
The winner of the fourth draw to be held Dec. 14 will receive $1,000 in Christmas cash.
Tickets are available at the United Way Resource Centre at 42 George Street in Brockville or by calling (613) 342-8889. Volunteers will be selling tickets Oct. 12, 13, 19, 20 and Nov. 2 and 3 at the 1000 Islands Mall. in Brockville.
BROCKVILLE A toll-free advice and referral service is available to farmers and their families.
The Farm Line, an initiative of the Ontario Farm Women's Network, is a province-wide help service that directs farmers in difficulty to appropriate agencies. The line also provides a sympathetic ear in stressful times.
Analysis of calls to the Farm Line indicates the main themes are financial, general information, legal and employment, according to a Farm Line news release. Many calls are of a personal nature.
The number to call is 1-888-451-2903.
At the Oct. 1 meeting of council, the minutes of two previous meetings were approved. They were the regular council meeting of Sept. 17 and the special meeting held at the ports regarding the hiring of a manager.
Mayor Dave Dobbie advised those present the general manager reported that Water and Earth Science Associates have been authorized to perform required testing and reporting in accordance with the conditions established by the ministry. At that meeting the question of what to do about the manager at the ports was discussed in camera.
The minutes of the recreation facilities committee were approved. This means the recommendation to use part of the tennis courts in Johnstown as a skateboard ramp was approved. In addition, council will be requesting the fair board reimburse Kemptville Minor Hockey the admissions charges obtained from hockey players and families at the gates in the amount of $153.
It was the understanding of the director of recreation the gates would be located in a manner which would enable Sunday hockey participants to access the arena without going through fair board gates. It is for this reason the recreation committee has recommended council request reimbursement.
The minutes of the environmental services committee were also approved. As chair of that committee, I asked members to consider the possibility of treating septic discharges. This would be an expensive proposition and I'd like to determine if, despite the costs up front, it would be a feasible operation. I'd be happy to hear from residents on the topic.
If we alter the underground work to separate storm water from sewage discharge so that the waste water treatment plant is not treating storm water, then the plant should be able to handle additional flow. This work was started by a former council of Cardinal. It was costly, however, and discontinued.
The village of Cardinal considered constructing the plant to receive septic waste but decided against it for three very good reasons: 1) trucks would have to go through the residential areas; 2) the cost of pumping from the north end of the village if a holding tank were installed would be great; and 3) why would they have needed to when all the residents of Cardinal were using the sewage system. There was no tax base to support such an operation.
My reasons for suggesting this were obtained from the nutrient management hearings held at Kemptville College Sept. 17. There are septic removal businesses that need somewhere to dispose of the septic wastes. Could this be a potential source of income to offset the costs? If the tank were built near the 401, could it be offset by the tax base as additional residents would be able to hook onto the line? Could it be offset by the rural tax base as it would be receiving their septic discharge? This is a costly service and only reduces in cost as the numbers serviced by it increase. It is always wise to remember maintenance costs are ongoing.
There would be a need for brainstorming, study and numbers crunching to determine options and viability. I'm sure people with more knowledge of the system than myself would have reasons for and against and possibly other ideas. If you have one, feel free to share it with me. As chair of this committee, I'm something of a "fish out of water" in that this has never been even remotely an area of expertise. I have no problem thinking up ideas, but feasibility of ideas is left to those with greater experience in this area than I.
The minutes of the planning advisory committee were passed. In these minutes the recommendation to continue with the interim control bylaw was accepted.
The skate sharpening business will be operating again this year in Spencerville at the arena under a new owner.
Storm Internet would like to install antennas on top of the water tower. Council has no difficulty with this so long as all those using the tower are paying the same rates.
I noticed in the accounts listing that an additional sum of $3,018.48 was remitted for work done on the town hall. I thought, as the holdback had been paid out at the last meeting, we would not have any additional work. Mayor Dobbie advised the work had been approved at a previous council meeting. Councillor Peter Martin informed me that in an earlier article I had indicated the work approved was to be done at the fire hall when it was for the town hall. (Apparently, I stand corrected. Sorry for any inconvenience.)
Mayor Dobbie advised the household waste day went well. Clerk Treasurer Russell Trivett advised he had received two calls from residents in New Wexford regarding the water maintenance fees. One person expressed a concern nothing was being done for residents of New Wexford. Trivett was asked to inform residents of the need for maintenance on the water lines.
Under new business, the Cardinal Figure Skating Club has requested they be allowed a Nevada licence for ticket sales at the deli in Cardinal. Trivett was instructed to discuss the process with them.
Peggy Taylor is a councillor for Ward One and may be reached at peggytaylor@ripnet.com.
CARDINAL The RCSCC 338 Defiant Cardinal Sea Cadets are celebrating their second birthday as a commissioned corps, and sponsors of the group are hoping more youths will join in the fun and excitement of the what they have to offer.
Youths between the ages of 12 and 18 are eligible to become sea cadets. All expenses for the program for training, courses, uniforms and officers' salaries are funded by the Department of National Defence. The Cardinal Branch of the Navy League of Canada provides funding for additional training aids, equipment, some accommodations and transportation while on courses and awards.
The cadets have just completed a weekend at Connaught Ranges in Kanata, where they participated in training for air rifles, archery and an obstacle course.
Other activities throughout the year will include training with a Lee Enfield Mark 7 single shot .22 calibre rifle, abseiling, which is similar to rappelling, drill competitions and sailing.
This winter will include a cold weather indoctrination course, which will involve snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, battle tobogganing, sleeping out and survival techniques. A weekend aboard the Toronto-based military ship HMCS Haida will teach the workings of a vessel and ship duties, such as cooking, cleaning and keeping watch.
The goals of the organization are leadership, citizenship and physical fitness.
There are currently 23 Sea Cadets in the Cardinal corps. The group meets weekly at the Cardinal and District Resource Centre. For more information, contact the corps at 657-1505, Lt. (N) Charmaine Barton at 657-3953, or Navy League representatives Carol Coughler at 657-1134 or Nancy Toupin at 657-8800.
SPENCERVILLE Amnesty Day at the Pittston Road landfill site for residents of the former Township of Edwardsburgh will be Saturday, Oct. 20 from 8 am to 4 pm.
Each township household will be allowed to drop off free-of-charge one large appliance, such as a refrigerator, stove or freezer, and four car tires (maximum 16-inch) or light truck tires. Proof of residency is required.
All other waste, including furniture, will require labels as usual. The special day coincides with the province-wide Waste Reduction Week Oct. 15 to 20.
CARDINAL Residents of the former village of Cardinal are able to participate in a curb-side trash and treasure day Wednesday, Oct. 17.
This event will be followed by a large-item pick-up Thursday, Oct. 18. A maximum of two items per household is allowed in the pick-up. Eligible items include household furniture and small metal items and pieces of carpet weighing not more than 50 pounds. Materials that will not be collected include corrugated cardboard, bags of leaves, brush and hedge trimmings, loose refuse, appliances, bed frames, bed springs, bath tubs, tires, demolition or renovation materials, propane tanks and hazardous or liquid wastes.
Materials that have not been collected by 8 pm Oct. 18 have been deemed ineligible and must be removed by 9 am Oct. 19. The service is for individual homeowners only; commercial locations and apartment complexes are not eligible to participate.
CARDINAL Diners Club seniors' lunches are being held this fall at the Anglican Church in Cardinal. The next lunches are set for Tuesday, Oct. 30 and Tuesday, Nov. 27. The lunches are held in Spencerville at the Presbyterian church hall every Thursday.
The lunches are sponsored by the VON home support program. The meal begins at noon; reservations are recommended. Admission can be paid at the door.
For more information, contact VON representative Susan Smith at 925-3731.
Karl Heinz (Charlie) Kindervater, 516 King St. W., Prescott, died Thursday, Sept. 27, 2001 at his home. He was 64.
Mr. Kindervater was born Feb. 22, 1937 at Essen, Germany, the son of August Kindervater and Elisabeth Leidgen. He married Anne Kindervater (nee Coligan) May 27, 1972 at St. Mark's Church, Prescott.
He had been employed as a sergeant with the Prescott Police Service.
Mr. Kindervater is survived by his wife Anne; daughters Bridgitte (Mrs. Calvin James) of Prescott, Evelyn (fiance Todd Skinner) of Ajax and Alice Anne of Scarborough; and grandchildren Connor, Holden, Jacob and Sydney. He was predeceased by his mother and father.
His interests included jewelry repair, gardening and spending time with his family.
Visitation was at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, Prescott, Friday, Sept. 28 from 2 to 4 pm and from 7 to 9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Mark's Catholic Church Sept. 29 at 11 am, with Father J. Appelman officiating. The committal service followed at St. Mark's Cemetery.
The pall bearers were Bryan Somerville, Garry Sluytman, Bill Lawrence, Rob Prophet, Shawn Steinburg, Terry Foster, Dave Nugent and Moe Morrissette.
Memorial donations may be made to Kingston General Hospital and the Prescott Police Association.
Theodore Gilbert Shaver, 3781 Maple Ave., Prescott, died Sept. 29, 2001 at Brockville General Hospital. He was in his 92nd year.
He was born Oct. 9, 1909 at Prescott, the son of Charles Levi Shaver and Edith Lavery.
In his early years, Mr. Shaver sailed with Canada Steamship Lines in Newfoundland, the Maritimes and Upper Great Lakes. He proceeded to become a plumber, working with a firm in Brantford, Ont., for a number of years. Upon returning to Prescott, he carried on as an instrumentation mechanic with Fraser-Brace on building the DuPont plant. He continued to work on projects, including refineries in Montreal, St. John, N.B. and at pulp and paper mills in the U.S. In later years before his retirement, he worked for Toshack Bros. in Prescott.
Mr. Shaver had a keen interest in the history of Prescott, and had amassed a valuable collection of old photos, post cards and information which he passed on to the Grenville County Historical Society for preservation. Mr. Shaver also loved gardening, and enjoyed giving the proceeds of his efforts to his family and friends.
He is survived by his sister Charleen (Mrs. John Breau), and several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents; brothers Art, Fred, Clifford, William and Philip; and sisters Kathleen Darbson and Eileen Bishop.
Visitation took place at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, Prescott, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2001 from 2 to 4 pm and from 7 to 9 pm. The funeral service was in the chapel of the funeral home Oct. 3 at 2 pm, with Rev. Ian MacLean officiating. A committal service will take place at Sandy Hill Cemetery at a later date. Cremation was at Cataraqui Crematorium Oct. 3.
Memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Ross James Somerville of Spencerville died accidentally Monday, Sept. 24, 2001, at the age of 72.
Mr. Somerville was born April 5, 1929, son of the late Ernest and Bella Somerville. He was raised at Groveton and attended Groveton Public School and Kemptville High School. He married Beatrice Kennedy Nov. 9, 1946. She predeceased him June 25, 1993.
He farmed at Ventnor until 1994, married Linda Parker Aug. 20, 1994, and moved to Spencerville in 1995, where the couple resided until the time of his death. Mr. Somerville was active and community minded. He was past chairman and secretary of the Grenville Milk Committee, past chairman and secretary of the Grenville Holstein Club, a 4-H Club leader, livestock evaluator, director of the soil and crop committee and past president of the Spencerville Agricultural Society.
Mr. Somerville was a member of the Edwardsburgh Township School Board and a member of Edwardsburgh Township municipal council for 12 years (nine as deputy reeve). He was also a bingo co-ordinator for the Spencerville Mill Foundation and Nation Masonic Holdings. He belonged to Nation Masonic Lodge, Spencerville, where he was a past master and a past district deputy grand master of St. Lawrence District (1984).
He was a member of Spencerville United Church and the diners' club. He was also a volunteer driver for the VON, and an avid reader.
He was the beloved husband of Linda; dear father of Marjorie (Gordon Williams), Bryan (Pamela), Allan (Pamela), Brenda (John Murray) and Linda (Bryane McGonegal). He was a dear step father of Brenda Sita, Patricia Cote and Robert McDowell. He was the loving grandfather of 12 grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and one step-grandchild. He was a dear brother of Ray, Glenn (Velma), Keith (Joan) and Gail Gill. He is also survived by Aunt Anna Somerville and by several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Somerville was predeceased by his son Carl and one grandson.
Visitation was at the Grant Brown Funeral Home, Purcell Chapel, Spencerville, Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2001, from 7 to 9 pm and Thursday, Sept. 27 from 2 to 4 pm and from 7 to 9 pm. The funeral service was held Friday, Sept. 28 at 1 pm at Spencerville United Church, with Doug Warren officiating.
Interment was at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Cemetery. Pall bearers were Steve Henderson, Evan Gillespie, John Hunter, Helmer Reddick, Keith Toshack and Stan Hall. Honourary pall bearers were Gord MacNaughton, Earl Moulton, Howard Ferguson, Henry Badmueller, Roy Lindsay, Keith Forbes, Howard Earl, Everett Connell and Howard Pope.
Memorial donations to the Friends of the Edwardsburgh Library Fund or the Masonic Foundation would be gratefully acknowledged.
CARDINAL - As a team struggling to gain confidence, the South Grenville Junior "B" Rangers finally have something to build on.
Peter Veltkamp's overtime goal snapped an ugly season-opening four-game losing streak as the Rangers knocked off the Athens Aeros 4-3 Saturday in Cardinal.
Veltkamp took a pass from Jason Denio and blasted a screen shot from just inside the Athens blueline that eluded the Aeros goaltender at 3:49 of the extra session.
The Rangers looked as though they would win the game in regulation, taking a 3-2 lead on a goal by Tyler Lawrence in the third period. However, Athens drew even with 1:09 left in the third, pouncing on a Ranger turnover.
South Grenville held a team meeting before the game when the coaching staff emphasized the need to play with more discipline and compete for a full 60 minutes. The meeting seemed to inspire the team as the Rangers jumped out to a 2-0 lead on goals by Dustin Swan and Veltkamp.
However, a rash of penalties opened the door for Athens and the Aeros' Chris McCann scored two goals to tie the game 2-2 in the second period.
Derek June notched two assists in the win for South Grenville, while Andrew Hare and Lucas Spencer added helpers.
One night earlier, in Westport, the Rangers' third period problems continued in a 10-3 loss. South Grenville trailed 2-1 after one period and 5-2 after 40 minutes but self-destructed in the third, surrendering five goals to the Rideaus.
Ted Livingston, Tyler McLeod and Lucas Spencer scored for the Rangers. Tyler Shanks had two assists with June and Swan adding one each.
The Rangers' next home game is Saturday when they host the Brockville Tikis in Cardinal at 7:15 p.m. Sunday, South Grenville travels to take on the Islanders in Gananoque at 7:45 p.m.
PRESCOTT - Curlers, especially non-smokers, now have a new area to socialize and watch games at the Prescott Curling Club.
Gone are the old benches and wooden floor that used to be in the downstairs viewing area and change rooms. In their place are tables and chairs and new carpet.
The entire downstairs of the building was painted, trophies on display were cleaned and the perimeter of the viewing area was decorated with lights.
"There's only so much you can do with an old building," says Bob Garand, president of the seniors league at the curling club. "We wanted to give the non-smokers an area where they can socialize, play cards and watch a game of curling."
Prior to the renovations, non-smokers had to decide whether to sit on the wooden benches or in the upstairs area where smoking is permitted.
The change rooms have also had a make-over with new lighting and carpeting, and the washrooms were completely redone.
Garand doesn't want to reveal financial details about the renovations, but says donations and volunteer work from members of the community paid for the entire project and saved the club a substantial amount of money.
AUGUSTA - Local motorsport fans will have a special opportunity to see some fall competition this weekend.
The Wheels 'a Churnin' event, normally only held in spring every year, will take place on Oct. 13 and 14 at Augusta Motorsport Park, south of North Augusta on Dixon Road, just off Country Road 15.
Gary Spero, organizer of the event, says he might not have held a fall competition, but, in the wake of the terrorist attacks on New York City and the Pentagon Sept. 11, he decided to go ahead with it.
"We thought we'd donate some money from the event to the Red Cross," he says. "We were tossing the idea (of a fall event) around, but sponsorship is hard to get in the fall. We're flying by the seat of our pants here, and we're really relying on the gate."
Spero says major sponsors were contacted but didn't reply. Approximately 1400 people attended Wheels 'a Churnin' in June, and Spero hopes for a similar turnout this weekend.
Once again, ATV mud drags will be the morning action on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday afternoon and evening will feature tractor pulls, mud drags, tough trucks and wheel-to-wheel competition. The truck pull will take place Sunday afternoon.
Since it is the final event of the season, Spero says the drivers will be shooting for solid showings to win the year's point standings.
"It's all on the line for everyone, and everyone is fairly close (in the standings)," Spero says. "No one can afford to sit this one out."
For more information, contact Gary Spero at 925-3374 or Onne Van Hoek at 926-2628.
By Jon Kuiperij - Journal Staff Writer
JOHNSTOWN - To be your best, you have to play against the best.
That's why Alexandra Marriner makes the trek to Ottawa several times a week, to play hockey in a more competitive league to develop her skills.
Marriner, a 12-year-old Johnstown native, has future aspirations of university scholarships and even playing for the Canadian National Women's Hockey team.
She held her own playing peewee "A" hockey last year even though she was a year or two younger than the rest of the girls, and is playing one division above her age group again this year, in bantam "A" of the Ottawa District Women's Hockey Association (ODWHA).
"It can be pretty hard," Marriner says of the frequent travel. "My friends might want to go out, but I have to play hockey."
The grade eight student at South Edwardsburg Public School brings a reading lamp with her for the trips so she can do her homework in the car. Her father, Greg Kenney, says she is in the top of her class, and she has learned that family comes first, then school, then hockey.
Marriner, who plays left wing, considers herself more of a defensive specialist. She takes pride in penalty killing and being responsible in her own end.
"I try to come back and help out," she says.
However, she might be selling herself short only talking of her defence. In five games this year, Marriner has racked up four goals and five assists.
"Last year, I didn't get a lot of goals," she says. "It's really fun this year, I'm getting a lot of passes and making a lot of plays."
In a typical week, Marriner says she has three or four practices and games. If that's not enough, she has also helped coach at clinics and is a certified ODWHA linesman.
Marriner says she has a couple of role models she looks up to as she hopes to pursue hockey as far as she can.
"I really like Isabelle Aubé," she says. "I like Manon Rheaume too; I did a biography on her for school."
Aubé is a former member of the Canadian national women's hockey team; Rheaume played in a National Hockey League exhibition game as a goaltender for the Tampa Bay Lightning several years ago.
The Rideau St. Lawrence minor peewee Kings split a pair of games last weekend against two tough opponents.
Friday, the Kings traveled to Kingston to take on the undefeated Predators and came out on the short end of a 3-2 score.
Rideau St. Lawrence led the game after two periods on the strength of a goal by Matt Wing, but the Kings allowed three goals in a three minute span in the third period to fall behind 3-1.
Andrew Warren banged in a rebound from Kyle Atkins, but the Kings were unable to get any closer, losing despite a solid effort from Graham Peters in goal.
Saturday night, Nathan Slack's two goals led the Kings to a 2-1 victory over the Ottawa Valley Titans.
Atkins and Jason Crooke drew assists in the game while Clarke Saunders gave up only one goal on a deflection to post the win.
Meantime, the Rideau St. Lawrence minor bantam Kings had their first taste of defeat on the long weekend, dropping a pair of games.
In their first game, a 5-3 loss to Seaway Valley, Matt Carmicheal scored twice and Adam Cross added a single.
Ben Collins had two assists while Shawn Gilmer chipped in with one helper.
Eric Selleck, Steve McGlade and Cross scored for the Kings in a 7-3 loss to the Nepean Raiders. Gilmer, Selleck, Collins and Braden Miller recorded assists in the loss.
Earlier in the week, the Kings had extended their undefeated streak to open the season to four with a win and a tie.
In Rideau St. Lawrence's 3-1 win over Cumberland, Carmicheal, Collins and Steve Doyle all scored once.
Collins' two goal effort helped the Kings tie the Ottawa Sting 4-4, with Travis Wing and Pat Doyle adding markers.
PRESCOTT - The inexperience of the Junior Giants football team hadn't really shown in its first couple games, but it was exposed against Almonte on Friday.
Almonte used a trick play to score three touchdowns, downing South Grenville District High School 27-6.
The Junior Giants defence, taught to go after the ball, was confused by the play, when the Almonte quarterback would throw to the tight end, who then would lateral the ball to a streaking wide receiver.
"There's no way a kid who played two or three games can stop that," South Grenville coach Dave Corney said. "It was a good trick play."
Corney said Almonte was definitely the best team the Junior Giants had faced this season.
Several of Almonte's players had played on the school's varsity team last year, including the quarterback.
South Grenville's lone score came on a long touchdown pass from quarterback Kurt Summers to wide receiver Mike Toll, who was playing his first game of the year for the Junior Giants.
Corney said the goal for the team is to win two of its final three games, which would give the Junior Giants a 3-3 record and a realistic chance at the playoffs.
With a bye this week, the team has two weeks of practice to prepare for their next opponent. South Grenville will host BCI Oct. 18 for a 1:00 p.m. kickoff.
MAITLAND Seven local schools participated in an elementary cross-country meet held at Grenville Christian College last Wednesday.
Maynard posted a solid showing as a school, finishing fourth in junior girls, third in junior boys, third in senior girls and fourth in senior boys.
Maitland also did well, placing second in peewee girls and second in peewee boys. Central finished fourth in peewee girls and fifth in senior girls, while Boundary placed fifth in the junior girls division.
Below are the top indiviual finishers for each school:
Algonquin - Megan Graham (5th, peewee girls), Lindsey Dejong (13th, peewee girls), Jacob Hayes (25th, peewee boys), Erin Bradley (36th, junior girls), Mitchell Meppelder (77th, junior boys).
Boundary - Alanna Lasemba (4th, junior girls), Cody Haché (13th, junior boys), Krista Stephenson (15th, junior girls), Brandon Graham (18th, peewee boys), Erica Bernard (29th, senior girls), Katie Todd (31st, peewee girls), Chad Hyland (56th, senior boys).
Central - Curtis Biccum (5th, junior boys), Dana Stephenson (8th, peewee girls), Kristen Craig (9th, senior girls), Emily Rienstra (10th, junior girls), Philip Biccum (14th, peewee boys), Lindsay Veenstra (17th, peewee girls), Ben Hutton (17th, peewee boys).
Grenville Christian College - Iain MacNeil (9th, junior boys), Alec MacNeil (12th, peewee boys), Adrienne Sukunda (14th, junior girls), Joshua Mintz (22nd, peewee boys), Eva Bennett (48th, peewee girls).
Maitland - Jennifer Pettem (2nd, peewee girls), Rhys Larry (7th, peewee boys), Kyle Hall (8th, peewee boys), Emily Wilson (12th, peewee girls), Alysia Jensen (15th, peewee girls), Trent Corney (15th, peewee boys), Todd Kirkey (16th, junior boys), Kelsey McKewen (64th, junior girls).
Maynard - Matt Leeder (1st, senior boys), Mike Thomas (3rd, junior boys), Jessica Dunnington (4th, peewee girls), Jessica Rupert (6th, junior girls), Fletcher Wehmeyer (15th, junior boys), Jackie Meppelder (16th, senior girls), Kenzie Hennesy (20th, peewee boys).
St. Mark - Robbie Deeks (19th, peewee boys), Tamara Amell (21st, peewee girls).