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By Monica Whitney - Journal Staff Writer
OGDENSBURG, N.Y. One month after terrorism rocked the United States and sent shock waves throughout the world, residents of Prescott, Brockville and surrounding communities came together with their neighbours to the south in a touching show of friendship and renewed pledges for a lasting relationship.
Firefighters and law enforcement and government officials from both sides of the border joined together last Thursday in Ogdensburg to honour that friendship and acknowledge the two countries would continue to stand together.
The afternoon ceremony at the Bridge and Port Authority grounds involved the presentation of a book of condolences by Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn to Ogdensburg Mayor William Nelson. The book was signed by 1,000 Prescott residents as an expression of concern and sympathy for the victims and their families in the Sept. 11 attack on America. The book will find its home at the state legislature in Albany.
A Canadian sugar maple tree was also dedicated during the ceremony to express the friendship between the communities. It had been previously planted by Brockville Councillor Jeff Earle, whose Augusta Township-based landscaping firm maintains the Canadian side of the bridge.
Earle noted he wanted to make a personal gesture to show his concern after the terrorism attacks, and the idea took off "like a house on fire. I think after Sept 11 there was a huge feeling of helplessness," Earle said prior to the friendship tree dedication service. "You were frustrated and mad. This was one of the ways to do something."
The book of condolences was a meaningful way for Prescott residents to reach out and help and to express to the United States the people of Canada also feel a tremendous loss because of the tragedy, Lawn explained. "The feeling is that strong," he said. "It has affected the whole nation."
While Lawn explained it was unfortunate the visual display of friendship had to come about because of tragic circumstances, the situation "will draw Canadians and Americans even closer together and that's good for our communities of Prescott and Ogdensburg."
Pat Hackett Sr., chairman of the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority board, said "the relationship across here has always been fabulous. There's a lot of ties. We're very proud of our relationship with Canada and Prescott."
The sugar maple tree planted on American soil with a view across the river to Canada "cements the relationship," Hackett said. "It enhances it even more. It's the most peaceful border and hopefully it will always remain so. You've done something that's very outstanding and we appreciate it more than you know."
"We stand together as one," the Ogdensburg mayor told the crowd, which combined members of the Ontario Provincial Police, RCMP, Prescott and Brockville police services and local firefighters with the American contingent of the U.S. Border Patrol, Customs and Immigration and correctional officers; emergency medical service members and government officials attended from both sides of the border.
The St. Lawrence River and the border are only physical lines that separate the two countries, Nelson said. "We know that Canadian citizens, our next door neighbours, are our friends. We know that when we are harmed, you share in our grief. We know that when we are victorious, you share in our celebrations."
Nelson noted Prescott Mayor Lawn was one of the first people to call him following the attacks to share condolences. "It was so touching. It just speaks of our relationship and how strong it is.
"The tree is such a wonderful symbol of the relationship that is so strong and so well bonded," Nelson said. As "the tree grows and life flows through it," so too will the friendship grow.
The dedication ceremony and Prescott's memorial service held in September were "heart-touching," Nelson said. "It just means so much to me and so much to the citizens of Ogdensburg and New York state. It's a tragedy, but out of the tragedy we're going to come back stronger - more united. As Americans and Canadians, we're all standing together and we are going to be stronger for it."
As the skies blackened during the ceremony and the dignitaries and guests continued to stand in the downpour, Brockville Mayor Ben Tekamp said the rain was another example of how Canadians and Americans would always stand together shoulder to should regardless of obstacles.
The service also included the singing of the American and Canadian anthems, with flags flying together.
"We all share concerns about what is happening in the world right now, State Senator James Wright said following the ceremony. "It's a situation where for years we always suspected there would be some kind of terrorist activity, never really fully expecting it would be against a civilian population.
"The anger and the reaction that you see and hear, not only here, but around the world, is the type of response that's to be expected," Wright said. "But at the same time, the compassion and the sympathy and the outpouring of emotion for the individuals who lost their lives... has been tremendous, and it's particularly true of our Canadian neighbours.
"We always have had a special relationship with Canada," Wright said. "It's not new to us, it's just become additionally special given the circumstances."
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
PRESCOTT There is no "for sale" sign in front of 360 Dibble St. W., but town officials would like to hear from anyone interested in the property.
Council agreed Monday to seek expressions of interest in the property that includes the municipal building and public library. The idea was put forward by Councillor Terry McConnell, who said it would give council something else to consider as it ponders the future of the town hall and library.
Mayor Robert Lawn supported the proposal which he called one of the few positive points made on the subject in some time. The mayor reiterated his belief that a private partnership with the town could help restore the building to its proper form. He said the building remains structurally sound, adding "someone with some imagination could make use of it."
Council also agreed Monday to keep the mothballed portion of the building heated this winter. Town Engineer Clyde Solomon said the gymnasium area suffered major damage last year because of a lack of heat. In noting the temperature does not have to be kept very high, Solomon said the town could make arrangements for heating and monitor the situation as the season progresses.
Reviewing the situation
Municipal officials are still considering their options when it comes to the future of town hall, but the extent to which some of those options should be discussed openly has also become an issue.
McConnell stated last Tuesday at a committee-of-the-whole meeting the matter should be discussed behind closed doors. McConnell said he had information about the hardware store owned by Councillor Jim French. The store was listed by council earlier this summer as one of several options to be considered as part of a continuing effort to decide on a location or locations for Prescott's municipal offices and public library.
French declared a conflict of interest and did not take part in the subsequent discussion.
Although Mayor Robert Lawn agreed council would have to meet in-camera to discuss options in detail prior to making a decision, he believes discussing basic information about the options should be done publicly.
Town CAO/Clerk Andrew Brown presented written reports on three options council had identified.
Although the federal building has more than enough space to house municipal offices and the public library, half the usable space is being used as a post office. Brown noted in his report Canada Post is not interested in leaving.
The basement of the federal building "...is generally not acceptable for office space," he stated.
Brown also noted asbestos is wrapped around pipes and a boiler in the federal building. An environmental assessment report indicates there are ozone-depleting substances in the air conditioning unit and water fountains, mercury in 200 flourescent tubes and silica in the walls.
The assessed value of the property is $1,078,000. Public Works Canada requires an appraisal that would be the purchaser's responsibility.
The one-storey PenBrad building, located at the corner of George and Henry streets, has less than half the square footage required for municipal offices, according to Brown. An addition of 3,500 square feet would cost between $300,000 and $500,000 based on a rate of $100 to $150 per square foot.
If the building were to become the new home of the public library, an extension of at least 1,500 square feet would be needed to meet existing square footage in use at the Dibble Street location. Any addition to the building would reduce on-site parking.
Additional costs would be incurred to renovate the interior of the building. Design, engineering, environmental assessment and appraisal costs would also be incurred.
The asking price is $125,000, according to Brown's report.
As for the existing location on Edward Street, it has less than half the square footage required for offices, on-site storage and meeting space. An addition would cost between $300,000 and $500,000 to build. Brown noted there would be additional design, engineering and interior renovation costs.
Another option that emerged recently is 175 Water St. The new owner of the property asked council if it would consider having a new municipal building and library built there. Council agreed earlier this month to ask the property owner to submit a proposal, although town officials indicated the owner should not necessarily spend a lot of money for such a proposal.
Renovating the Dibble Street building remains an option. Council voted in favour of that option several months ago but put the project on hold this summer.
PRESCOTT Police are investigating several break-ins which occurred early Monday morning in a two-block area of King Street West.
Small amounts of cash were taken from four downtown businesses Gill's Travel, Berry's Pet Food, Flower World and Wiseman's Shoes. The break-ins are believed to have occurred between 4 am and 6 am.
Glass doors at the front of each business were shattered. Thieves went through office areas looking for cash, according to a police news release.
Anyone with information on these break-ins is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-267-8477.
SPENCERVILLE A public open house to show off the renovations to the municipal building in Spencerville is scheduled for this Saturday, Oct. 20.
The public can view the new council chamber and other renovations at the Spencerville building between 1 and 3 pm. An official ribbon cutting is scheduled for 2:30 pm.
Reeves and councillors of the former municipalities of Cardinal and Edwardsburgh have been invited to attend. Refreshments will be served.
The renovations are estimated to have cost about $105,000, with about 70 per cent of that amount having been paid for through a provincial grant authorized for amalgamation expenses.
PRESCOTT - The Prescott Public Library will host an open house this Saturday, Oct. 20 from 11 am to 5 pm to bring Public Library Week to a close.
Volunteer Sue Torrance will lead a special Halloween crafts session for children from 11 am to noon. 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.
Complimentary coffee and home-baked treats will be available throughout the day. Mayor Robert Lawn will draw the names of raffle winners at 3 p.m.
Author John Morris is scheduled to donate to the library a copy of his new Prescott history book.
The public will have a chance at the open house to reserve session times for family portraits to be taken Saturday, Oct. 27 by photographer Christine Endicott to raise funds for library books.
For more information on other library week activities, call 925-4340.
ROEBUCK An afternoon concert will be presented this Sunday, Oct. 21 at 2 pm to mark the 85th anniversary of Roebuck United Church.
The concert will feature the Centennial Road Standard Church Worship Team from the Brockville area.
The Rev. Randy Hopkins will bring a short meditation, but music with plenty of audience participation will dominate the event. The public is invited to attend.
Refreshments will be served after the service. A free-will offering will be received during the concert.
The church, located on County Road 18 just south of County Road 21, was originally Methodist but became United following the church union of 1925.
PRESCOTT Some changes are in the works for the "Light Up the Night" celebration set for Friday, Nov. 23.
The stage show in the parking lot at the clock tower has been moved to 5 pm and will precede this year's parade. The show has in past years been presented after the parade.
"It just seemed to make sense to move it earlier as people are really cold following the parade," said Greg Adams, stage show co-ordinator and Fort Town Booster. "We should have a great turnout in the earlier time slot."
The Boosters and the Prescott Fire Department organize the annual event. This year's parade and stage show will feature Canadian recording artist Maren Ord. The 21-year-old from Vancouver released her first CD in January. "Waiting" features the hit song "Sarah." Ord, who just finished touring with Jimmy Rankin and Sugar Jones, will appear on the Vicki Gabereau show on CTV Oct. 19 and is scheduled to appear on Open Mike with Mike Bullard Nov. 27, the week after Light Up the Night.
Ord will appear on stage, ride in the parade and attend an autograph session at the Legion Hall at about 8:15 pm.
Fund-raising letters have been sent to various business owners and service clubs in the area. Event organizers are hoping anyone who wants to take part in the parade will register soon by calling Parade Chairman Brent Norton at 925-4777. Firefighters Lorne Watling and Barry Moorhouse are parade co-organizers.
For more information about the stage show and entertainment at the Legion Hall, call Greg Adams at 925-2910 or e-mail organizers at lightupthenight@hotmail.com.
"We're going to entertain you," Adams said.
BROCKVILLE The federal government will contribute $4.5 million to two tele-health initiatives in Eastern Ontario, Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan has announced on behalf of Health Minister Allan Rock.
Three million dollars will go to the Eastern Ontario Tele-health Network. Sixteen community hospitals, including Kemptville District Hospital, will be linked to major primary-care facilities in Ottawa. The system will capture real-time medical images and patient demographics which will be stored in secure patient folders.
A program to develop a secure cardiac health records system based at the University of Ottawa Health Institute will receive $1.5 million from the federal government. The program will enable health-care providers to obtain immediate access to up-to-date patient data; physicians will then be able to electronically refer patients to the institute for assessment and treatment.
"This is a very innovative project that will benefit physicians and other health-care workers in Leeds-Grenville," Jordan stated in a news release. "More importantly, it will provide Canadians living in remote areas better access to improved health-care services."
PRESCOTT Town officials are hoping to have more information this week on what needs to be done at the site of an old municipal dump, according to Mayor Robert Lawn.
The dump is located under the site of the proposed FAI commercial development east of the Ontario Provincial Police station. Concerns over organic material in the dump and how it could affect the ground under the site arose last month. Council agreed to have the material removed, although town officials acknowledged Monday they still do not know the extent of the problem and how much it will cost to fix.
Mayor Lawn said the municipality is in daily contact with the developer. There are also discussion between the developer and the environment ministry, according to Lawn.
There have been no indications of contaminated soil at the site, according to town officials.
Councillor Garry Dewar said the town and the developer remain committed to the project. A new grocery store and Canadian Tire outlet are among the buildings planned for the north-end site. The councillor also indicated to his knowledge businesses are still interested in locating there.
Dewar said there will likely be adjustments to the site plan because of the presence of the old dump which was closed about 40 years ago. However, he remains optimistic about the proposed development.
"It's just a question of getting everything together," Dewar added.
PRESCOTT The Churchill Road reconstruction project could soon be underway, but the actual road work will not begin this year.
Prescott council voted Monday to proceed with infrastructure work to replace and improve sewer hook-ups to residences along Churchill Road.
With the water table being so low at this time of year, it is felt now is the time to proceed with underground work that needs to be done.
However, this means reconstructing some or all of Churchill Road between Boundary and Edward streets will probably not become a reality until the spring or summer of 2002.
Council agreed to have Cornwall Gravel begin the project, the first phase of which will cost an estimated $150,000.
Town Engineer Clyde Solomon said he would have to talk to the contractor before he could indicate when work could begin.
Solomon suggested the work might begin in two to three weeks, adding the contractor might begin at Boundary and head west at about one block at a time.
More information about the project and how residents and motorists could be affected might be available at council's committee-of-the-whole meeting set for this Monday, according to Solomon.
PRESCOTT Homeowners could soon be receiving water bills once every two months.
The town is in the process of consolidating municipal water services, including billing. Prescott council is considering changes to residential billing frequency. Bills were sent monthly by the PUC, a practice which has been maintained by Rideau St. Lawrence Utilities (RSL) after the PUC and three other municipal utilities merged to form a new company.
Town council is planning to maintain monthly billing for commercial customers and apartment dwellers. Council discussed the matter during an Oct. 9 committee-of-the-whole meeting.
Councillor Seeley Pillar expressed a concern about changing the frequency of residential bills. He said it might cause problems for senior citizens who budget their money each month. In response to that concern, Councillor Garry Dewar indicated a residential customer could pay about half of the total bill one month and pay the rest the following month.
No decision has been made on billing frequency. The town is proposing a test run of water bills to run simultaneous with RSL bills in December.
Municipal officials hope a new organizational structure for water services is in place at the beginning of the new year. To that end, council approved a motion Monday to assume responsibility for billings and collections of water and sewer effective Jan. 1, 2002.
An employee of RSL will become an employee of the town as part of the transition.
SOUTH GRENVILLE Municipalities in South Grenville and throughout Ontario will receive a total of $4 million from the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) to cover costs associated with recycling alcohol beverage containers.
The Township of Augusta will receive a grant of $3,065. The Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal will receive $2,223, while the Town of Prescott will receive a grant of $1,448.
The LCBO has contributed $12 million since 1998 to help cover beverage container recycling costs in the province. An additional $5 million has been committed in each of the next five years.
The government agency has also announced a one-time payment of $1 million for the set-up of Waste Diversion Ontario (WDO), a proposed non-profit organization with a mandate to develop, implement and fund waste diversion programs across Ontario.
WDO will establish a funding organization to set and collect fees from industry to pay 50 per cent of net operating costs of municipal blue box programs, according to a Ministry of the Environment news release.
The province has a waste reduction goal of 50 per cent; recycling accounts for a large portion of Ontario's waste diversion target.
PRESCOTT The postponement of Grade 10 literacy testing this week means it will be "school as usual," according to Upper Canada District School Board Director of Education, Gino Giannandrea.
Province-wide testing was to have taken place Tuesday for most students. However, Education Minister Janet Ecker announced Monday afternoon testing would have to be rescheduled because of a breach in security protocol which resulted in some test material appearing on a Web site.
School Board Chair Joan Hodge noted the tests had been postponed and not cancelled.
"We look forward to the provincial education minister's rescheduling of the literacy test as soon as possible," Hodge stated.
The Upper Canada board operates South Grenville District High School in Prescott.
ALGONQUIN The dream of Maitland having a focal point for its recreation and education activities became a reality because one man had the drive and motivation to make it happen.
Ken McKittrick was recognized for his efforts Monday night at the Augusta Public Library in Algonquin as the recipient of the library's second annual Dreamers and Doers Award.
The honour is given to an Augusta Township resident who has worked actively to pursue a dream to fulfillment for the enrichment and betterment of the community.
McKittrick was a founding member of the Maitland Recreation and Education Committee (MERC) executive, founded in 1974. Over the next two decades, he worked tirelessly towards his goal, explained Bill Carlyle, chairman of the Augusta Public Library Board which sponsors the award.
McKittrick played a major role in fundraising, purchasing land, putting in a road, creating a ball diamond and constructing the original education and recreation building.
The present MERC Hall was constructed in 1987, largely through McKittrick's efforts, Carlyle said. He continued as manager of the hall from its opening until 1997.
"Ken's volunteering has had a direct influence on many aspects of life in his community," Carlyle said. "He has been able to bring his dream to fulfillment, and in doing so, his community has benefitted."
McKittrick, now retired from a 35-year career as an elementary school teacher, said he has always liked to see things accomplished. He noted he feels good about his vision to help acquire a 22-acre plot of corn field and woods and transform it into Maitland's hub of activity. "I'm proud of the concept," he said, noting the creation is still blossoming.
McKittrick volunteers his time with the curling program at the Brockville Country Club, and sings with the Brockville Melody Men chorus. He also volunteers at the Augusta library in the summer reading program, and assisted with the purchase and installation of the library's computers. He teaches computers to seniors at St. Lawrence College, and also instructs at T.R. Leger School in Brockville.
The award winner said he'll volunteer anywhere he can be of help. "I've always done it," he said. "It seems like a natural thing to do."
BROCKVILLE Nominations are now open for positions on the Brockville Psychiatric Hospital Patient Council.
The annual general meeting will be held Tuesday, Oct. 30 at Upper Centennial Hall.
The election is open to patients, former patients and consumer/survivors of mental health services who live in the Brockville area.
The deadline for nominations has been extended to Oct. 25. For more information or to obtain nomination forms, call the patient council office at 345-1461, extension 2479.
The Maitland Education and Recreation Corporation Board invites all Maitland residents to a wine and cheese reception and annual general meeting to be held at the MERC Hall Monday, Oct. 22 at 7 pm.
The evening will be a chance to meet current MERC members and discuss the programs MERC offers, but more importantly it is an opportunity for you to get involved. MERC offers a wide range of programs and services that benefit everyone in the Maitland community.
The programs include playgroup, summer parks, swimming lessons, soccer, teen dances and seniors' luncheons. The hall operated by MERC is a vital community meeting place for groups such as Brownies, Weight Watchers, exercise class, karate club and social dance club.
The hall also functions as the community centre to hold special events, including all-candidates meetings, community and industry liaison meetings, art exhibitions, comedy nights and Christmas parties, to name a few.
MERC supports winter outdoor activities, including two outdoor skating rinks which operate on Cedar Street and at the MERC Hall, and the Maitland Ski Trails. MERC also provides bursaries to Maitland students attending post secondary institutions who have completed twenty hours of community service.
If you would like to see MERC continue to offer these programs and services that enrich our community, come to this important meeting and see what you can do. New members are always welcome and any level of volunteer support is appreciated. Whether you have a lot of time to give or a little, your help is needed.
The election of officers will be conducted at this meeting. Please mark this important date on your calendar and plan to attend.
The date for the skate and ski sale has been changed from Nov. 3 to Oct. 27 from 9 am to 11 am. Anyone with winter equipment for sale can bring it to MERC Hall Friday, Oct. 26 between 6 and 7 pm, or on the morning of the sale. Be sure to clearly mark your items with your name and asking price. All unsold items must be picked up at 11 am Oct. 27. For more information, call Susan Clarke at 348-3088.
A babysitting course will be offered Saturday, Nov. 3 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at the MERC Hall. The course is taught by a St. John Ambulance instructor and teaches participants what every babysitter should know. Participants must pre-register by calling Susan Clarke at 348-3088.
The MERC volunteer appreciation night will be held Friday, Oct. 26 at 7:30 pm at the Maitland hall. If you have volunteered with MERC in the last year, the board wishes to recognize your commitment to the community with a special evening. There will be a cold buffet, DJ, door prizes and a cash bar. Please call 348-3963 by Oct. 19 to confirm your attendance.
By Willy Sieling Heuvel
Flu shots will be given today, Oct. 17, at the health clinic just east of Walker House starting at 10 am and running until noon. There is no clinic at Walker House this year.
There is no evening bridge Oct. 17 due to the trip.
A chicken-plus dinner will be held Saturday, Oct. 27 at 5:30 pm. Reservations by Oct. 24 at 4 pm are a must.
Card game winners last week were: Monday bridge 1st, Ruth Britnell; 2nd, Geneva Odell; Valerie Schulz won the door prize. Tuesday cribbage high hand, Pete Lowry; high score, Bea Hemsley; 2nd, Jean Annable; 3rd, Lou Baldwin. Wednesday evening bridge 1st, Ed Zackon; 2nd, Charlie Steiner; Kitty Wormington won the door prize. Thursday euchre 1st, Eddie Arcand; 2nd, Eleanor Gilligan and Pat McPhee; 3rd, Jessie Shaver and Jeannine Marion; Myrtle Shahan won the door prize.
PRESCOTT The winner of the South Grenville District High School's Giant Raffle 2001 will have some big prizes from which to choose.
The winner of the grand prize will have his or her choice of a four-wheeler, above-ground pool package, TV/DVD/surround sound/satellite package, a Caribbean cruise and a home computer system.
The second prize is $1,000, and the third prize is a TV with built-in DVD player.
The draw will take place Dec. 5. Tickets are available at Knapp's Yamaha, Tropical Pools, Sears, Gill's Travel, Playit Star, W.L. Peters and from SGDHS students. Proceeds from the draw go to high school sports and extra-curricular activities and clubs.
ROEBUCK A Halloween dance will take place Saturday, Oct. 27 at the Roebuck Community Centre.
The dance begins at 9 pm and includes costume prizes and a light lunch. The DJ will be Mike Gulley. The event is sponsored by RERA and minor ball.
For more information or to buy tickets, call Barb at 658-3008, Pam at 658-3081 or Harold at 658-2351.
BOUNDARY STREET PUBLIC SCHOOL On Monday, Deborah Dunleavy, a singer and songwriter, was at the school to teach students in primary and junior grades the dynamics of music and musical styles and to develop a music vocabulary.
Today, it is picture day at the school for Kindergarten group "A" to Grade 8 students.
Tomorrow, Kindergarten group "B" will have their pictures taken, the cross-country team will travel to Brockville to compete in a championship meet, and there will be a parent council meeting at 7 p.m.
Friday, the hot lunch is hamburgs.
CENTRAL PUBLIC SCHOOL The hot lunch program begins today. Burgers are on sale.
The cross-country team will travel to Brockville for the championships tomorrow. Good luck to all.
South Grenville students will visit Monday to hand out UNICEF boxes to our students.
ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL Mid-term reports were sent home to all students in Grade 1 to 3 on Monday. Parents are asked to sign and return these to the classroom teacher by Friday.
Students were treated to a wonderful presentation by T.C. and Dave of the duet "Elysian Dream" on Monday. They enjoyed 45 minutes of fun as well as an introduction to Celtic music.
Hot lunch this week is pizza and next week is chicken chunks. Don't forget school photos next Tuesday for all Junior Kindergarten "B" to Grade 3 and on Wednesday for "A" day Kindergartens.
Our All-Star Reading strategy this week is "Sound It Out." Please practise this and the last eight strategies when reading with your children.
By Vic Allen
The Prescott landscape has a new addition. It is a 100-foot tower, at the town yard site, that has been built by Upper Canada Networks (UCNet).
The new tower is a strategic link in UCNet's network that is expected to bring access to affordable broadband connectivity to all of Leeds and Grenville later this fall.
The Prescott tower will carry antennas and transmitters that will connect the town to Brockville, Cardinal, Spencerville, Kemptville, Merrickville, Smith Falls and Gananoque.
As a not-for-profit organization, UCNet's mission is to provide broadband connectivity throughout the entire counties at affordable prices to schools, colleges, hospitals and the private sector. The network is viewed as a strategic enabler for the creation of jobs and the overall improvement of the local economy.
In addition, the UCNet network is expected to connect to Utilities Kingston's fibre and wireless network some time in late Oct. 2001. This capability will significantly expand the choice of upstream connections for Leeds and Grenville network users. And choice means a level of competition that will result in a broader range of network services at lower prices.
The Kemptville area has had access to affordable broadband connectivity for a little more than a year now through an arrangement UCNet has with WiBand Networks. This wireless network connects Ottawa to Kemptville. It was set up as a "pilot" program to test the effectiveness of a wireless infrastructure to serve the connectivity needs of a small community.
The project has proved to be most successful. A mixture of nine public and private sector organizations has used the network with a high degree of satisfaction. And, the price structure is right.
AUGUSTA A County Road 21 residence was the scene of a break, enter and theft. Grenville County OPP were called to investigate Oct. 12. Taken from the residence was jewellery and a quantity of cash. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Cathy Nooyen at the Kemptville detachment (258-3441) or 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be left with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
AUGUSTA Police were called to a County Road 6 residence Oct. 12 to investigate the theft of a Panasonic CD player and stereo system. Constable Cindy Bisson of the OPP detachment in Prescott is the investigating officer.
EDWARDSBURGH OPP officers were on routine patrol on County Road 22 Oct. 12 at about 1:39 am when they pulled over a vehicle because of erratic driving, according to a police news release. James Kirkby, 34, of Edwardsburgh Township, was arrested and charged with impaired driving and driving while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit. Constable Elaine Barr is the investigating officer.
JOHNSTOWN An unsuccessful break, enter and theft occurred early Monday morning at Bayview Convenience. Property inside the business was vandalized, but police report the culprit or culprits were unsuccessful in obtaining anything. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Rick Foley at the OPP detachment in Prescott (925-4221 or 1-888-310-1122).
cle accident early Sunday morning on Highway 401 just west of the Maitland exit. A car was westbound at about 4:20 am when it left the roadway and struck the centre median. The driver and passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported by ambulance to Brockville General Hospital. Sharon Strader, 25, of Prescott, was charged with dangerous driving causing bodily harm, operating a motor vehicle while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit and possession of a controlled substance. The passenger, Crystal Johnson, remained in hospital as of Monday. Strader is scheduled to appear in court Nov. 23. The investigating officer is Constable Chuck Doran.
Loaded trailer stolen from lot
EDWARDSBURGH A trailer with a full load was stolen from the 730 Truck Stop, according to Grenville County OPP. The trailer was reportedly stolen sometime between Oct. 12 and Oct. 15. The 1994 Trailmobile, white with a red undercarriage, bears Ontario plate number M78730, and VIN 1PT01FAR9008310. The combined value of the trailer and its load is estimated at more than $100,000. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Chuck Doran at the Prescott detachment (925-4221).
Kid's motorbike taken from residence
EDWARDSBURGH A child's 80-cc Honda motorcycle was stolen from a Brouseville Road residence. It is believed the theft occurred during the overnight hours of Oct. 10. OPP Constable Jim Blanchette is the investigating officer.
Cash and jewellery removed from home
AUGUSTA A County Road 21 residence was the scene of a break, enter and theft. Grenville County OPP were called to investigate Oct. 12. Taken from the residence was jewellery and a quantity of cash. Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Cathy Nooyen at the Kemptville detachment (258-3441) or 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be left with Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
CD player and stereo system stolen
AUGUSTA Police were called to a County Road 6 residence Oct. 12 to investigate the theft of a Panasonic CD player and stereo system. Constable Cindy Bisson of the OPP detachment in Prescott is the investigating officer.
Impaired driving charges laid
EDWARDSBURGH OPP officers were on routine patrol on County Road 22 Oct. 12 at about 1:39 am when they pulled over a vehicle because of erratic driving, according to a police news release. James Kirkby, 34, of Edwardsburgh Township, was arrested and charged with impaired driving and driving while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit. Constable Elaine Barr is the investigating officer.
JOHNSTOWN Chantal Christensen wants members of the armed forces stationed overseas to know Canadians are thinking about them.
The Johnstown resident is collecting Christmas cards to send to military personnel. Christensen told The Journal last week her goal is to collect 30,000 cards by late November.
Christensen said she was moved by coverage of troops heading overseas and saying goodbye to their families. She noted the faces of the children whose father said he would not be home for Christmas.
"I just thought... It's our duty to make sure they know we support them," she said.
Christensen decided one way to show that support would be to send Christmas cards to those who will be unable to come home for the holidays.
"If I went to war so far away from loved ones I think I would enjoy getting a card even if I didn't know them," she said.
Canada has committed military personnel to the American-led war on terrorism. Canadians are also continuing to serve in United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Christensen has been in touch with officials at CFB Trenton. The cards are to be delivered to the base by Nov. 25 at the latest.
Christensen, whose father served in the military, has placed card collection boxes at numerous locations in Johnstown, Cardinal, Spencerville, Brockville and Prescott, including the office of The Journal. Business owners have been very co-operative and willing to help, Christensen noted.
Some schools have volunteered to participate in the campaign, she added. Christensen has e-mailed messages to 40 churches asking for help with the campaign.
Christmas cards can be mailed to Chantal Christensen at "Let Them Know We Care," RR3 Prescott, Ontario K0E 1T0. For more information, call 925-1959.
By Monica Whitney - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT The Spencerville Mill Foundation and its members have received the prestigious Grenville County Historical Society annual award of merit.
The presentation was made at the society's annual dinner and award ceremony Oct. 10 at Prescott's Blue Stone Café and Inn.
The foundation was chosen for its significant contributions and preservation of history in Grenville County. The mill foundation has been chiefly responsible for saving the Spencerville Mill from demolition and for returning the historic building and property to its former glory.
"I don't know when I've enjoyed a project more," said Bill Woodhead, chairman of the foundation and guest speaker at the award ceremony. "It's been a fascinating project," he said, noting the work has indulged a personal interest in mills, industry and engineering. "It's a subject that's very dear to my heart."
Other key members and supporters of the mill foundation are Earl Connell, Eric Baker, Tim Hemsley, Ted Barnard (a former owner of the mill), Dale Montgomery, Bill Hooper, Louise Burchell, Doug Hall, Peter Martin, Al Gillis, J.P. Connell and Eileen Woodhead.
The first mill and wooden dam on the South Nation River near the site of the present mill was built by Peleg Spencer in 1811. Peleg's son David acquired the business in 1822, and it included a saw and gristmill. In 1850, David built a third mill on the north side of the river, dedicated to carding and fulling. In the early 1900s, the mill was the first registered manufacturer of calf meal in Canada, and became the sole producer of animal and poultry fee under the registered name "Grow or Bust."
The current mill continued in operation until 1972, and throughout the 1970s, 80s and early 90s, the mill became badly deteriorated. Speculation as to its future grew strong over the years, and some groups fought against a common feeling the mill should be destroyed, Woodhead explained. "I'm glad to see that feeling has largely disappeared."
Minor work to save the mill began about 1980, and the South Nation River Conservation Authority acquired ownership in 1983. There had been some ambitious plans to convert the mill to a hostel, restaurant or craft studios, Woodhead said.
The Spencerville Mill Foundation was developed in 1999 as a non-profit charitable organization. While it is the legal owner of the landmark mill, Woodhead explained its primary goal is for the mill to become a focal point in the community and for it to occupy a unique position in the history of the area.
Making it into a worthwhile and viable centre in the community has involved many private financial donations and volunteer labour. Twice-monthly bingos pay for current operating expenses, such as insurance, telephone and lighting.
Major restoration work has retained the flavour and appearance of the mill, dam and surrounding property to about the 1906 era, Woodhead said.
Activities now offered at the site include art classes, fishing derbies and art and quilt shows and sales. Future plans include a hiking and walking trail from the mill along the river to the Weir Bridge, and exhibits to reflect rural Eastern Ontario life of about 100 years ago. A seasonal museum could show details of the past milling operation and household and industrial items of the early 1900s, he said.
Original equipment still at the mill includes three grinders, a platform scale, bagging machines, conveyor belts and a water-driven turbine.
On the foundation's wish list for the next year is to install plumbing, washrooms and a wheelchair ramp.
"We do foresee a lot of major work, but it's fun," Woodhead said. "I think this is a healthy thing for the community."
The Spencerville Mill is the last remaining mill structure on the South Nation River. "We will strive to ensure this history be conserved and recorded for the benefits of present and future generations," Woodhead said.
For tours, information or to offer assistance in the preservation of the mill, contact Woodhead at 658-2450.
AUGUSTA The Colonel Edward Jessup branch of the United Empire Loyalists (UEL) will hold its charter meeting Saturday, Oct. 27 at Bethel United Church hall west of Maynard on the third concession.
UEL members strive to gather information about their ancestors, heritage and history. Anyone interested in local history is invited to attend.
The meeting begins at 11:30 am, and lunch will be served at noon. A certificate presentation to a UEL descendent will follow, and author John Morris is scheduled to speak on his new book, Morrises' History of Prescott, 1800-2000.
For ticket reservations or more information, contact Fraser Carr at 925-4390 (e-mail fraser.carr@recorder.ca) or Myrtle Johnston at 924-2928. Reservations are required by Oct. 21.
PRESCOTT The due date for the town's final 2001 tax billing has been changed.
Prescott council voted Monday to make Oct. 26 the final due date. Council had selected Sept. 28 when this year's tax rates were set this summer.
In noting the municipality is supposed to give notice of 21 days, Treasurer Laurie Kirkby indicated the municipality would make allowances if requested to do so.
Residential tax bills were mailed late last week, although some commercial property tax bills had not been sent as of Monday.
Pat Hackett of the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority, referring to Canada's support and concern following the terrorist attacks in the U.S.
Whether it's a case of flowers being uprooted from planter boxes along main street, stone seats being unearthed at the amphitheatre or graffiti being written on the exterior of the municipal building, vandalism seems to have become a fact of life that annoys a lot of people in Prescott and other communities in the area. We as a society tend to look down on young people as a group because of the problem, not to mention police and parents who often take some or much of the blame because supposedly they were not doing their job. It might not be fair to blame an entire segment of society for vandalism, but that is the reality. It is also clear many people believe part of the problem stems from the fact there is usually little or nothing for youngsters to do in a small town or rural area. For whatever reason, vandalism appears to be on the rise in Prescott and some business owners and residents are wondering what can be done about it.
Some municipalities have installed video cameras in public areas in an effort to discourage vandalism and other crimes. This will usually result in a debate over privacy-related issues and the "big brother" scenario, but it is difficult to argue against a crime prevention tool that law-abiding citizens have no reason to fear. Town council has discussed the possibility of using a surveillance camera near the waterfront and the amphitheatre. No one is advocating the creation of a network of expensive surveillance cameras and television monitor. It would be impractical to think a camera would be set up on every street and dark corner in the downtown area. However, many people are getting fed up with vandalism and they would like to see action taken. They could live with the so-called infringement on privacy if it deters someone from breaking a window or assaulting another person.
Better lighting and more police patrols might have a positive effect, and using a video camera or two in strategic locations could discourage the senseless destruction of public and private property. There are no easy answers, and some of the options being considered come at a hefty price small towns like Prescott might not be able to afford. However, it is evident something has to be done. Instead of trying to figure out who is to blame for the problem of vandalism, the community needs to look at constructive ways to deal with the situation. The problem will not go away overnight, and people of all ages who are becoming frustrated by what they see happening might consider offering their help in what will undoubtedly be a long-term effort.
Tim Ruhnke
My one and only trip to Manhattan took place almost 20 years ago. A busload of high school band members spent three days doing what a lot of tourists do: catch a Broadway show (Evita) and a play (Othello, starring Christopher Plummer and James Earl Jones), visit Radio City Music Hall and Lincoln Center, and take the obligatory bus tour. I was not that interested in going to an observation deck and viewing the area from 100-plus storeys up. Even though our visit was confined to the lower portion of the island, the sights and sounds of those three days had an overwhelming effect on this teenager from small-town Ontario. It was the most significant experience of my young life, and for years I vowed I would return and do some of the things I was unable to do during my first visit.
Nineteen years later, as I am trying to keep my mind on work while listening to National Public Radio reports on what was later called the "Attack on America," I couldn't help but wonder if I would ever be able to return to the greatest city in the world. Many of us couldn't help but wonder that Tuesday morning if this would be the beginning of an end. Anxiety turned to quiet disbelief later that day when I was finally able to see television coverage of the attacks. As was the case with a lot of people, my emotions continued to vary in the days that followed. The anticipated military response by the United States created a new form of anxiety. I could recall the sick feeling I had on that cold winter evening in 1991 when Desert Storm began. The unease returned two Sundays ago.
Some pundits are saying this is, for all intents and purposes, the third world war. They say it will be unlike any conflict we have seen in the past. This is new territory for those of us who have never been directly affected by war. Desert Storm was also half a world away; as tragic as it has been, years of civil war and foreign intervention in the Balkans never really altered the way Canadians live their lives. The pundits may indeed be onto something when they suggest a new cold war has arrived. Society has for decades had the capability of destroying itself with the push of a button, but did we really think anyone would actually go through with flying planes into buildings or contaminating water supplies?
As scary as things have become, I hope I will be able to return to the Big Apple one day. It is still difficult to comprehend the magnitude of what happened Sept. 11, but it is almost comforting to know in spite of the tragedy New York remains the greatest city in the world.
John A.H. Morris
Once the Canadian Legion Poppy Campaign is over (November 11) the Cenotaph Committee of Prescott Legion Branch 97 will be conducting a fund raising campaign to raise about $22,000, the balance that will be owing on the overall project of re-locating Prescott's Cenotaph to its new location at Fort Wellington.
Total cost of moving the Cenotaph from its old location beside the Municipal Building on Dibble Street, and creating the handicap accessible walkways and parkette at the new Fort Wellington site will be $32,000. To date $10,200 has been raised by the Branch 97 committee headed by Legionnaire Ed Greene, CD. This includes funds raised in a downtown blitz by committee members Florence Turner, Marie Brown and Linda Wing over the past couple of weeks.
Mr. Greene is confident that Branch 97 will be able to raise the funds needed to complete the project in time for an official re-dedication at the season opening of the fort the May 24 weekend next spring.
We agree that this is within the realm of possibility for our local Legion, but we think it should be a town-wide project with as many private citizens as possible participating in the fund raising. After all, the young men and women who served in our armed forces both at home and abroad, did so in order that every Canadian citizen can enjoy the peace and prosperity that their sacrifice made possible.
When the paving has been installed and the landscaping completed, Prescott will have one of the most attractive war memorials of any small town or small city in Canada, especially in its new setting at Fort Wellington and with the assurance that future maintenance will be carried out by Fort Wellington employees.
Although these figures could vary slightly, our research shows that approximately 103 men and women from Prescott and area volunteered for active service in World War I, of which nine were killed. In World War II, 124 served and 20 paid the supreme sacrifice. As we can see, these wars were a town commitment, not just a Legion commitment. Persons wishing to make donations to the Prescott Cenotaph Fund can send cheques to Legion Branch 97, Box 700, Prescott, K0E 1T0, or contact committee chairman Ed Greene at 925-2165 to obtain further details.
*****
A recent event in Brockville where a patient from the Brockville Psychiatric Hospital, a convicted pedophile, was allowed to enter a city fast food restaurant unaccompanied by his supervisor, supposedly to use the washroom facilities, sexually assaulted a seven year-old girl in the women's washroom, has Brockville residents upset, and rightfully so.
This event on its own is disturbing, but with the knowledge that Brockville is going to be host to many more of these kind of inmates when the new jail facilities at what will be the present Brockville Psychiatric Hospital, are opened in 2002-03, the concern for the public safety will be multiplied many times over.
It is time cities and municipalities such as Brockville which house similar facilities for the criminally insane and for incurable pedophiles took back control of their towns and cities. They should demand that hospital and jail officials inform local police forces every time they let one of these people out on either a supervised or unsupervised day or overnight pass.
This would provide communities with a double sense of security. Many present and past BPH employees have told us that... "it is scary" ...the number of people that are out in the community unsupervised, every day.
*****
Any plans Prime Minister Jean Chretien (Sgt. Pepper) has been harbouring about running for a record fourth term office, have hopefully been swept away by his totally ineffectual performance as Canada's leader, since Sept. 11
But then again, maybe he has been playing part of the political buffoon on purpose, hoping to escape the same fate as Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of New York City, along with Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik and Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen. It was announced that on the weekend that on the recommendation of British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Queen Elizabeth was going to make these men Knight Commanders of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
We just couldn't see ourselves voting for a Sir Sgt. Pepper in the next federal election. Do you suppose our barely visible PM does not realize that Sir Conrad is leading a British plot, hatched by the Church of England, to bestow upon him a Royal Night Hood?Once the Canadian Legion Poppy Campaign is over (November 11) the Cenotaph Committee of Prescott Legion Branch 97 will be conducting a fund raising campaign to raise about $22,000, the balance that will be owing on the overall project of re-locating Prescott's Cenotaph to its new location at Fort Wellington.
Total cost of moving the Cenotaph from its old location beside the Municipal Building on Dibble Street, and creating the handicap accessible walkways and parkette at the new Fort Wellington site will be $32,000. To date $10,200 has been raised by the Branch 97 committee headed by Legionnaire Ed Greene, CD. This includes funds raised in a downtown blitz by committee members Florence Turner, Marie Brown and Linda Wing over the past couple of weeks.
Mr. Greene is confident that Branch 97 will be able to raise the funds needed to complete the project in time for an official re-dedication at the season opening of the fort the May 24 weekend next spring.
We agree that this is within the realm of possibility for our local Legion, but we think it should be a town-wide project with as many private citizens as possible participating in the fund raising. After all, the young men and women who served in our armed forces both at home and abroad, did so in order that every Canadian citizen can enjoy the peace and prosperity that their sacrifice made possible.
When the paving has been installed and the landscaping completed, Prescott will have one of the most attractive war memorials of any small town or small city in Canada, especially in its new setting at Fort Wellington and with the assurance that future maintenance will be carried out by Fort Wellington employees.
Although these figures could vary slightly, our research shows that approximately 103 men and women from Prescott and area volunteered for active service in World War I, of which nine were killed. In World War II, 124 served and 20 paid the supreme sacrifice. As we can see, these wars were a town commitment, not just a Legion commitment. Persons wishing to make donations to the Prescott Cenotaph Fund can send cheques to Legion Branch 97, Box 700, Prescott, K0E 1T0, or contact committee chairman Ed Greene at 925-2165 to obtain further details.
*****
A recent event in Brockville where a patient from the Brockville Psychiatric Hospital, a convicted pedophile, was allowed to enter a city fast food restaurant unaccompanied by his supervisor, supposedly to use the washroom facilities, sexually assaulted a seven year-old girl in the women's washroom, has Brockville residents upset, and rightfully so.
This event on its own is disturbing, but with the knowledge that Brockville is going to be host to many more of these kind of inmates when the new jail facilities at what will be the present Brockville Psychiatric Hospital, are opened in 2002-03, the concern for the public safety will be multiplied many times over.
It is time cities and municipalities such as Brockville which house similar facilities for the criminally insane and for incurable pedophiles took back control of their towns and cities. They should demand that hospital and jail officials inform local police forces every time they let one of these people out on either a supervised or unsupervised day or overnight pass.
This would provide communities with a double sense of security. Many present and past BPH employees have told us that... "it is scary" ...the number of people that are out in the community unsupervised, every day.
*****
Any plans Prime Minister Jean Chretien (Sgt. Pepper) has been harbouring about running for a record fourth term office, have hopefully been swept away by his totally ineffectual performance as Canada's leader, since Sept. 11
But then again, maybe he has been playing part of the political buffoon on purpose, hoping to escape the same fate as Mayor Rudolph Giuliani of New York City, along with Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik and Fire Commissioner Thomas Von Essen. It was announced that on the weekend that on the recommendation of British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Queen Elizabeth was going to make these men Knight Commanders of the Civil Division of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.
We just couldn't see ourselves voting for a Sir Sgt. Pepper in the next federal election. Do you suppose our barely visible PM does not realize that Sir Conrad is leading a British plot, hatched by the Church of England, to bestow upon him a Royal Night Hood?
CARDINAL Young actors and actresses are ready to hit the stage again this season, with a new production under the direction of Carol Morris and Diana Hoy.
The Cardinal Youth Drama Club held registration this week, and will continue to meet for rehearsals each Monday from 4:15 to 5:30 pm at St. John's United Church hall.
This year's production is the musical comedy Wishes Come True (Secrets of the Rainbow Planet). The play reflects on the awkward years of childhood involving fickle friendships, neighbourhood bullies and pier pressure, Morris explained. The main character, Andy Alexander, tries to make sense of it all, and wishes things could be better. Through his dreams, he takes a look inside himself and begins to see things in a positive way. Unique characters and catchy tunes in his imagination show him wishes can come true.
The play is for children in grades 3 to 8 who enjoy acting, singing and dancing. "The whole point of this is just to be involved," Morris said, noting the participants do not need prior experience.
Morris developed the drama club last year in an effort to provide a different type of after-school activity for youth and to offer exposure to the arts. A public performance of the play is planned for the spring.
Last June, the drama club staged The Rock Slinger and His Greatest Hit, a successful performance attended by about 220 people. The play involved 24 children and several volunteers who contributed costumes, set designs, financial donations and labour.
For more information on the drama club, contact Carol Morris at 657-1013 or Diana Hoy at 657-3004.
SPENCERVILLE - The Cardinal Figure Skating Club will be allowed to sell Super Nevada tickets for fundraising purposes, Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council decided at its meeting Monday night.
The tickets will be sold at Euro Deli in Cardinal's Village Square Mall. Club officials had expressed concern about funding this upcoming season.
SPENCERVILLE - Members of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council decided Monday night to extend the services of the public Internet access site at the satellite municipal office in Cardinal indefinitely.
The site, part of Industry Canada's Community Access Program, is supported by the Grenville Community Development Centre, which contributes towards the costs of operating free and public Internet access. Several costs, including a phone line and consumables such as printer cartridges and paper, are absorbed by the township. The site offers an alternative to using the library for Internet access, since the municipal site is not as busy and is open some hours the library is not.
SPENCERVILLE Amnesty Day at the Pittston Road landfill site for residents of the former Township of Edwardsburgh will be this 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 large-item pick-up tomorrow, 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 The United Church Women group of St. John's United Church in Cardinal is serving its annual fall harvest supper this Thursday, Oct. 18 from 4:30 to 6 pm.
The meal will include casseroles, salads and desserts. Tickets are available at the door; admission is free for preschoolers.
CARDINAL Diners Club seniors' lunches are being held this fall at the Anglican Church in Cardinal 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.
This is one of those better-late-than-never items. I've been slow to recognize a number of people for their work on two floats. The Cardinal Community Drama Club float was designed by Mary Ann MacDonald and created by her, Sonia Southwood (and family) and Cindy Simpson and Jason Simpson. This float was placed in the Labour Day Parade in Cardinal. These same people also worked on the float for the Edwardsburgh Co-Operative Playgroup Inc. This float won second prize at the parade in Spencerville.
These people made the trek back to my place many times in the days prior to the parades and painted, stapled, sketched, chased my children, ate hot dogs, laughed, joked and had a great time putting the floats together. Without this help, the floats would not have happened.
There are many people to acknowledge for their time and efforts in organizing the Ride n' Stride. I know I will miss people because there were quite a few "pitch-ins" that morning and their help was also appreciated.
Ed and Kelly Bush put the start/finish line up; Studio C Dance provided the music; Labrador Water provided water; Fraser MacIntyre and Dori Coons took care of the money; Mary Ann and David MacDonald did "catch-all"; Steve Riddell was responsible for putting up and taking down directional signs with the help of David Black; and the Legion held its breakfast for participants and others. It was wonderful! Of course the 730 Truck Stop and Casco were our corporate sponsors and without their generous donations the event would not have taken place.
In case you were wondering, the Drama Club is gearing up for a second season. Carol Morris and Diana Hoy are hard at work, already getting the music and play organized.
Peggy Taylor is a councillor for Ward One and may be reached at peggytaylor@ripnet.com or 657-1728.
Sharon Birtch, 54, died Sunday, Sept. 30, 2001 at St. Vincent de Paul Hospital, Brockville.
She was born in Billings, Ont. Feb. 25, 1947 to Oliver Birtch and Lola Birtch (nee Acres). She enjoyed the time she spent being a nanny, and also enjoyed flowers and sewing.
She is survived by her three sons, Joe James (Sharon) of Cardinal, Jeff James (Tracy) of Brockville and Pat Pope of Cornwall; brother Robert (Pauline) of Merrickville and Gary (Sue) of Oxford Mills; sister Vicky Jackson (Bill) of Eastons Corners; grandchildren Stephen and Deven; Godchild Tanya; and many nieces and nephews.
A graveside service took place in Oxford Mills with Rev. Roach officiating. Memorial donations were made to St. Vincent de Paul Palliative Care.
Funeral arrangements were under the care and direction of Grant Brown Funeral Home, Rolston Chapel, Kemptville.
Louise Hermer died Friday, Sept. 28, 2001 at St. Vincent de Paul Hospital, Brockville, surrounded by the love of her family, following a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was 59.
She was born June 23, 1942 in Brockville to Bernard Sweeney and the former Margaret Caufield. She was raised and educated in Prescott, where she attended both public and high school. She often told her family stories about the summers she spent in Ogdensburg N.Y. at her aunt's farm, and the mischief she and her cousins used to get into.
She later attended nursing school at St. Vincent de Paul Hospital under the direction of Anne Bedard. She graduated with her RNA certificate, class of 1962. She was offered a position with St. Vincent de Paul at that time.
She married Jerry Hermer Sept. 26, 1964 in Prescott at St. Mark's Catholic Church, where she still attended mass faithfully until her death. The couple bought their first home in Maitland, where they started their family. It was at this time she put her nursing career on hold to stay home with her two children.
Mrs. Hermer returned to nursing in 1972, working at Wellington House in Prescott. She later went to work at Zellers, where she enjoyed working in the pet department. She remained there until they purchased the Algonquin General Store. For the next eight years she enjoyed many cups of coffee, conversations, laughter and tears, but most of all she cherished the lasting friendships she took with her when they moved to Lords Mills Road.
Because of her love of working with the elderly, she returned to Wellington House, where she remained until she was forced to leave due to her failing health.
Defying all odds throughout her illness, she set an example of what true courage, strength and determination really are. Her intense love and loyalty to her family and faith were what gave her the strength to fight for so long.
She will always be remembered by those who knew her for her sense of humour, beautiful blue eyes, infectious warm smile and huge heart.
She is survived by her husband Jerry; daughter Bernadette (Mrs. Murray Bradley); son Bernie (wife Lilly), all of Brockville; grand daughters Brittany and Emily Bradley and Soula Louise Hermer; brother Martin Sweeney and sister-in-law Helen Sweeney.
She was predeceased by both her parents and brother Albert Sweeney.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Chris Slater Funeral Home, with visitation Sept. 30. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at St. Mark's Catholic Church Monday, Oct. 1, 2001, with Father J. Appelman officiating. Burial followed at Roselawn Memorial Gardens, Maitland.
The pall bearers were Brett Latimer, Dale Gilmour, Wayne Spence, Dave Darrah, Eddie Bisson and Bob Hudson. Honourary pall bearers were Paul Marion, Ernie Salmon, Bob Jeffers, Wes Jordan, Harry Sheerer and Mickey Hermer.
Memorial donations were directed to Palliative Care and the Canadian Cancer Society.
Reinhold Mueller, RR 3 Prescott, died Saturday, Sept 29, 2001 at Brockville General Hospital. He was 91.
He was born April 28, 1910 in Germany. He married Elsa Mueller (nee Linke) July 10, 1948 in Germany.
Mr. Mueller is survived by his wife Elsa; daughter Ursula (Mrs Brian Fischer); grandchildren Trevor Fischer, Scott Fischer (wife Megan) and Lisa Fischer; and great grandchildren Brady and Madelyn. He was predeceased by his parents and his son George.
Mr. Mueller's interests included his home and family. He had been employed as a mason.
Visitation took place at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, Prescott, Tuesday, Oct. 2, 2001 from 7 to 9 pm. The funeral service was in the chapel of the funeral home Oct. 3 at 11 am, with Rev. Blair Paterson officiating. The committal service followed at Sandy Hill Cemetery.
The pall bearers were Trevor and Scott Fischer, Tom and Tom Jr. Devries, and Adam and Henry Walasek.
Memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
CARDINAL It's amazing what one win can do for a team.
A mere eleven days ago, the South Grenville Junior "B" Rangers lacked confidence as a group, winless after four games and in the basement of the Rideau Division.
Head coach Anthony Gilmer felt if his team could win just one game, it would gain confidence and begin to play much better hockey.
That's exactly what's happened. After winning its first game, an overtime thriller against Athens almost two weeks ago, South Grenville went on to win both its games last weekend.
The team now finds itself on a three-game winning streak and one point out of third place in the division.
"It all started with that Athens win," Gilmer says. "We had a meeting before that game with the kids and told them to forget about last season and the start to this one."
"We're starting to do all the little things right, we're scoring on the power play and getting shots on goal. The guys are playing with a lot of heart and a lot of pride. It's amazing; we got the monkeys off our backs."
South Grenville faced a daunting task Saturday night when it hosted the undefeated Brockville Tikis, the same team that handed the Rangers a 7-2 loss earlier in the season.
After a scoreless first period, South Grenville exploded for four straight goals in the second frame. Dave Gallant scored twice while Andrew Hare and Pat Foley added singles to give the Rangers a 4-0 lead. However, the Tikis replied with two goals near the end of the period, and scored twice more in the third to tie the game at four.
Despite blowing a four-goal lead, the Rangers didn't panic, but responded well. Peter Veltkamp gave South Grenville the lead once again 25 seconds later, and Derek June iced the win with 33 seconds left, stealing the puck from a Brockville defenceman and scoring into the empty net for the 6-4 final.
"We didn't fall apart," Gilmer says. "That's what had hurt us before. The guys continued to play with confidence and they came right back."
Alex Last picked up the win in goal, while June added three assists for a four-point evening.
South Grenville carried the momentum into Sunday's game at Gananoque. Hare scored in the first minute to give the Rangers a quick 1-0 lead. After the Islanders tied the game, Jason Denio scored to give South Grenville the lead for good.
Gallant and June tallied in the second period to build a 4-1 lead, and the Rangers protected the lead well in the third, surrendering only a late third period goal and holding on for the 4-2 win. Tyler Shanks played solidly in net while Denio picked up two assists.
Gilmer credits several veterans on the team for helping turn the season around, saying players like Lucas Spencer, Hare and Last have become more vocal in the dressing room and have taken a leadership role.
The Rangers look to continue their recent success when they meet the Westport Rideaus at the Cardinal and District Community Centre for a 7:15 pm face-off Saturday.
The Rangers then travel to Athens Sunday for a 7:30 pm start.
Westport handed the Rangers their worst loss of the season a couple weeks ago, 10-3, and Gilmer promises his team will be ready for the rematch.
"The boys will be looking for a bit of revenge," he says. "I'm looking for another four-point weekend."
Rideau - St. Lawrence Junior "B" Hockey League Standings
RIDEAU DIVISION GP W L T PTS
Brockville 8 7 1 0 14
Westport 7 4 3 0 9
Athens 7 2 4 1 7
South Grenville 7 3 4 0 6
Gananoque 7 1 5 1 3
* Teams losing in overtime receive one point
Sun., Oct. 14 South Grenville 4, Gananoque 2
Char-Lan 4, Akwesasne 1
Alexandria 4, Kemptville 3
Sat., Oct. 13 South Grenville 6, Brockville 4
Gananoque 0, Athens 0 (postponed)
Char-Lan 5, Winchester 2
Kemptville 2, Morrisburg 2
Fri., Oct. 12 Athens 4, Westport 1
Akwesasne 3, Winchester 2
Alexandria 3, Morrisburg 2
Wed., Oct. 10 Brockville 6, Westport 5 (OT)
PRESCOTT - Technically, there are no hurdles in cross-country, but Mandy Wallace has a couple to overcome as she looks to finish a strong season.
The 17-year-old South Grenville District High School student will have to fight through a lingering leg injury and a rival runner from Almonte if she hopes to win the Ontario Federation of Schools Athletic Association (OFSAA) four kilometer race next month in Gloucester.
Wallace pulled a quadriceps muscle in her right leg earlier this year and took most of the summer in physiotherapy and rehabilitation, trying to regain the form that she once had.
"I just pulled it in gym class one day," she says. "I'm trying to get back to where I was. Hopefully, I'll be completely healthy by the time indoor track season starts."
Wallace ran at the pre-OFSAA competition last Saturday in Gloucester, and says her leg was still hurting the following day. The Cardinal native feels she is "around 90 per cent" of what she was last year.
For the second race in a row, Wallace finished second to Almonte's Perianne Jones after running close together for most of the four kilometer run.
Jones, the midget all-Ontario champion two years ago, pulled away from Wallace in the last 100 meters at the TISS Invitational Cross Country meet in Brockville Oct. 4, and the same thing happened in Gloucester.
"I think the difference is power, and Perianne has it," Wallace says. "It didn't really bother me (losing two close races), she just overpowered me at the end."
Although the two are fierce rivals on the field, Wallace says they have become good friends.
"We talk all the time," Wallace says. "We hung out together all day (in Gloucester)."
Wallace won't have to worry about Jones in her race today at the Leeds and Grenville Secondary Schools Athletic Association championship meet in Brockville.
However, the two will race again at the Eastern Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association meet in Renfrew Oct. 27, and likely at the OFSAA championships in November.
The grade 12 student hopes to continue running after high school and has talked to several American schools about potential scholarships.
"I'm looking at Connecticut and Buffalo," she says. "I've (also) got letters from South Carolina and from all over the U.S."
The University of Buffalo might be the best fit for Wallace, as she has known the Buffalo coach, Vicki Mitchell, for several years, and the school is in New York State, relatively close to home.
Wallace also hopes to run for the Canadian national team eventually, and feels she could've made the team this year but didn't try because of the extensive travelling.
Although she runs both, Wallace prefers track-and-field to cross-country, and says she performs better in the track format.
"It's a different atmosphere," she says. "I like track more because you know exactly how far you've gone, how far you have left to go, and where your competition is."
The Rideau St. Lawrence minor peewee Kings picked up two wins and a tie in their last week of action to extend their undefeated streak to four games.
Thursday, goaltender Graham Peters backstopped the Kings to a 1-1 draw with the Outaouais Intrepide in Hull, Quebec. The Kings started slowly but Peters kept them in the game with several first period saves and Jason Crooke opened the scoring midway through the second period. The Intrepide tied the game late in the second on a deflection from the slot to round out the scoring.
Saturday, Rideau St. Lawrence hosted Outaouais in the back end of a home-and-home and skated off with a 2-2 tie. Once again, the Kings started slowly but were kept in by their goaltender, Clarke Saunders. Nate Slack put the Kings on the board early in the second but the Intrepide drew even halfway through the frame. Kyle Atkins finished a fine individual rush to give the Kings the lead after two, but Outaouais rallied early in the third to tie the game.
The minor peewees had a much easier time of it Sunday in Maxville, as they downed the Seaway Valley Rapids by an 8-1 score. Sam Coyne led the offence for the Kings with a hat trick, while Andrew Warren notched a goal and two assists. Joel Haystead-Smythe, Matt Lajoie, Tyler Drew and Atkins added singles for the Kings and Crooke recorded three assists in the win.
The Rideau St. Lawrence minor bantam Kings dropped a 4-2 decision to the Ottawa Sting last week. Steve McGlade and Kyle Whiteford tallied for the Kings, with Kevin Burnsting, Pat Doyle and McGlade drawing assists.
The Rideau St. Lawrence minor atom Kings evened their record at 2-2 with a 5-0 victory over Gloucester on Oct. 6. Michael Skakum led the way with a hat trick, while Brett Jackson and Scott Summers rounded out the scoring for the Kings. Andrew McVean posted the shutout in goal. Nicholas McCaslin notched three assists, Jackson had two helpers and Summers, Maxim St. Jacques and Doug Utting chipped in with one assist each.
The following day the Kings dropped a 9-2 decision to Kingston. Summers scored both Rideau St. Lawrence goals.
Meanwhile, the South Grenville atom "B" Rangers started their season on a positive note Sunday, blanking Alexandria 10-0. Kristian Knapp scored three times and Hank Heykoop added two to lead the Rangers, while Sebastian Last, Chris Noonan, Kyle Lavery, Fletcher Wehmeyer and Zach Stitt added one each. Michael Allan picked up the shutout in goal to earn his first at the atom level. Other players for the Rangers include Kenny Polite, Andrew Bernard, Dylan Hayes, Nicholas Francica, Jared McGeough and Jamie McFarlane. Ryan Hayes and Joe McFarlane will be behind the Rangers bench this season, while Frank Wehmeyer and Ann-Marie Polite will serve as trainers.
The District One Wild major peewee "A" team began its season recently and features several locals. Corie Toye and Michael Lawrence of South Grenville will skate for the Wild this season while Glen Toye will serve as team trainer.
The team, which will play out of the Ottawa League, recently made it to the final of a tournament in Kingston before coming up short.
In the first game, Oct. 5, the Wild dropped a 1-0 decision to Kingston. Corie Toye took the loss in net despite surrendering only the one goal. Toye split time in net in the next game, a 5-5 tie with Cornwall on Oct. 6. The Wild rallied from a 5-2 deficit to draw even, with Lawrence assisting on the team's fourth goal.
The following day, Toye backstopped the Wild to a 2-1 victory over Clarkson. Lawrence drew a helper on the first Wild goal. Later that day, the Wild knocked off Nepean 5-4 to make it to the final.
The Wild scored first in the championship game, a rematch against Kingston, but then surrendered five unanswered goals in a 5-1 loss.
Other members of the team include coach Kevin Byrd, Michael Byrd, Josh Bouwman, Josh LaSalle, Jon Koopman, Alex Horsburgh and Chris Brazeau, all of Kemptville, Brandon Elliott and Tyrell Keicks of Iroquois, Steve Allan and James Hurley of Brockville, Josh Welch, Corey Larocque and Kyle Patrick of Westport and Cobey Haskins of Smith Falls.
PRESCOTT Do you have a pair of old hockey gloves that you don't use anymore?
If you do, The Beer Store will be more than happy to take them off your hands.
From Oct. 1 to Nov. 3, The Beer Store is participating in "Reduce, Reuse, Replay," a campaign designed to encourage people to recycle used hockey equipment so needy children across Ontario can have an opportunity to play the game.
Beer Store customers can drop off their used hockey equipment at any of the chain's 433 retail locations across Ontario.
The store will donate the equipment to the Ontario Minor Hockey Association for redistribution to needy families.
Lloyd Clayton, manager of The Beer Store in Prescott, says many people have come in and said they do have equipment to donate, but not much equipment has actually been received by the store so far.