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By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT South Grenville District High School welcomed a special visitor Tuesday afternoon.
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and his wife Aline visited the school Tuesday afternoon less than a week before the federal election. The Chrétiens were met by Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan, who accompanied them through the school and a visit to a computer classroom that utilizes information technology applications and is supported in part by federal government funding.
"I am very impressed that you have organized a very modern, avant garde school right here in a town with such a great history," the prime minister told the crowd gathered in the library.
The prime minister emphasized education and the need to prepare high school students for college, university and the ever-changing needs of a global economy.
The prime minister explained that his generation hoped to get a job at age 16 and work there until they turned 65 and got a pension. "That was the life," he said. "It will not be the same thing for you."
Chrétien said students today have to be prepared for the possibility of changing their careers several times. He noted there is a new Liberal program in the works to enable a person to put money aside and, with the help of the government, "bridge the movement from one career to the other without too much financial damage to yourself and your family."
After he delivered a speech, the prime minister was asked several questions by students. The first two questions dealt with environmental issues such as Canada's commitment to reduce greenhouse gases. When asked about what life is like on the campaign trail, the prime minister said he makes a point every day of visiting sites where government intervention has paid off for society. He added he enjoys the job and is now "trained" on how to deal with issues and the media.
Chrétien said it will be "kind of easy" for voters in the riding to make a decision when they go to the polls. "You have a very good MP in Joe (Jordan)," the prime minister said.
On the issue of personal values, Mr. Chrétien said one has to make a distinction between beliefs and the reality of life. In noting that he is a Catholic who has his on views on abortion, the prime minister said he could not impose his views on others because he does not want others to impose their views on him.
"In a multi-racial, multi-religious society, you have to be very careful," he said. "In a democracy you debate things and eventually there is a consensus that develops."
The prime minister described himself as a family man whose values are his own. The laws of society must give the freedom to everybody to maintain their values and not hurt the values of others, according to Mr. Chrétien.
The prime minister also made light of the ongoing uncertainty about the outcome of the American presidential election as he praised the system of government in Canada.
Chrétien pointed out that he was an MP for 30 years before becoming prime minister. "So be patient, Joe," the prime minister said.
He said the great moment for any politician is when on voting day you realize people in your riding want you to represent them in parliament.
As for the incumbent Liberal MP, Jordan told the gathering in the library that the Liberal government is going to make sure that nobody is going to be left behind, no matter where they live in Canada. He praised teachers who are making an effort to prepare young people for the changing world.
"If we put the tools in their hands, they'll make sure that Canadians are ready for the new economy," Jordan said.
Most students at SGDHS appeared to be impressed by the prime minister's visit. Jeff Condie said it was great to see the prime minister come to the school. "He's got a good outlook on life," Condie said.
Cristal Beattie said it was great that Mr. Chrétien would come to a small-town school.
"It shows a lot of support for our education... and us," Sara MacIntosh said.
The prime minister and his wife shook hands with students lined along the school's hallways. It was then off to Kingston, Trenton and Cape Breton Island for the prime minister, his entourage and the media covering the campaign.
By Monica Whitney - Journal Staff Writer
MAYNARD - Augusta Township council was expected to decide at a special meeting Tuesday evening if it would allow a recount of the municipal election votes cast for the position of reeve.
In the election Nov. 13, George Vail received just 18 votes more than his opponent John McCrea.
McCrea submitted a letter to the municipal office last Friday requesting an official recount.
The council's decision on whether to allow the recount was not known by press time. However, the result will be available on The Prescott Journal's web site www.prescottjournal.com today (Wednesday).
McCrea said he had many people suggest he ask for a recount. "I'm not suggesting anything is amiss, and I'm not suggesting he (Vail) didn't win fair and square," McCrea said.
"It's important that it be settled and there be no doubt. I just want to clear the air and get on with it. I don't want to look back on this and say I should have (asked for a recount). It's so George doesn't have any doubts either."
Since Vail and McCrea are both members of council, the decision would have been made by Reeve Adrian Van Schie and councillors Jane Fullarton and Doug Barton.
Vail told The Journal Monday he would declare a conflict of interest in the decision on the recount. However, he said he would recommend at the special meeting the recount be allowed if his opinion were sought.
"To satisfy John (McCrea) and to satisfy his supporters" I will recommend he have his recount, Vail said. "I don't want John going around for the next three years wondering if I was really the reeve.
"I truly believe no mistakes were made" (in the original counting of votes), Vail said, adding he has faith in the municipal election system. "I have confidence and I don't think (a recount) will change anything. It was a close race.
"I truly feel that in my own heart I am the reeve. It brings it back again to that nail-biter situation," Vail said, referring to the tense and stressful election night when it was not known who would be reeve until the last poll had called in its results.
Vail said he respects McCrea for his decision to request a recount. If a recount shows McCrea is in fact the new reeve, Vail said he would accept the results. "It must have been the way it was intended to be."
The reeve-elect said he had "congratulated (McCrea) for running a good campaign and he in turn congratulated me and wished me the best in my position."
On the night of the election, Vail said he prefers a close competition to one where he would be a "shoe-in. It shows that your opponent has good issues too, and it shows that you're going to have to stand up and take notice of the people."
If the out-going council passes the resolution to hold a recount, Augusta Clerk and Returning Officer Ray Gilmour must recount the votes within 10 days of the resolution, according to the Municipal Elections Act. Vail and McCrea along with individual legal council may also be present at the recount.
Should council turn down the request for a recount, McCrea has the option to apply to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice for an order that the clerk hold a recount. The application must be made within 30 days after the clerk's declaration of the results of the election.
If satisfied that there are sufficient grounds for it, the court can make an order requiring the clerk to hold a recount. The recount must be held within 10 days after the clerk is notified of the order.
In 30 years as the clerk of Augusta, Gilmour said there has never been a recount following a municipal election.
The inaugural session of the new council is scheduled at the Maynard municipal office for Monday, Dec. 4 at 7:30 p.m.
If Vail retains the reeve position, he said he will treat all the people of the township fairly and honestly and give them good representation.
On the issue of the silencing of the train whistles that caused a great deal of debate at all-candidate meetings prior to the election, Vail said there could possibly be a compromise.
"I can't see myself completely doing away with the train whistle, but I would look at a compromise. I will look at the issue again. I'm there to listen to the people who are concerned about this, but I'm also very concerned about safety. It's nothing we're just going to close the door on. If the people want to come back with some ideas, I'm here to listen."
On the closure of the Maynard landfill issue that also generated debate, Vail said, "there are lots of people who feel the same way that I do. They're still not totally convinced yet that it needs to close. But environmental and feasibility are the two big things - they are of the foremost importance. If we can do it and get some more use out of it, then let's try.
"The numbers are there, but I want to look at it again and involve the (Ministry of the Environment) more," Vail said.
"It didn't all come together the way I thought it should have. It's going to have to be looked at and put to bed one way or the other."
MAYNARD - Augusta Township has granted its permission for a recount of the votes cast for reeve in the Nov. 13 municipal election.
The outgoing council met last night (Tuesday) to consider a formal request from Deputy Reeve John McCrea to conduct a recount.
McCrea was vying for the reeve's seat against Councillor George Vail, who finished the race just 18 votes ahead of McCrea. It is estimated 2,814 ballots were cast in the election.
Since Vail and McCrea are both members of council, they each declared a conflict of interest and the request was considered by Reeve Adrian Van Schie and councillors Jane Fullarton and Doug Barton. All three voted in favour of the request.
The recount will take place next Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 10 a.m. in the municipal office in Maynard. Present at the recount will be Augusta Clerk and Returning Officer Ray Gilmour, Deputy Clerk Linda Robinson and Vail and McCrea with their individual solicitors if they choose.
Van Schie said both reeve candidates had been in touch with him and both had shared a desire to have a recount to "remove any doubt as to whom was elected."
He said he "commends both candidates for the position that they have taken regarding the issue facing us.
"The decision would not have any negative implications on the ability of our deputy returning officers or polling clerks in the performance of their duties," Van Schie said prior to the decision being made by council.
If council had turned down the request, McCrea would have had the option of asking for a recount through the county court system, Van Schie explained.
He also noted Augusta Township's solicitor, John Simpson, had advised council to support the request, since the vote was close and both candidates were in agreement to have a recount.
All costs for next Tuesday's recount will be borne by the township. Van Schie said the expenses would involve the staff time only for employees Gilmour and Robinson.
Coun. Fullarton commented at the meeting that "the candidates are being very generous and reasonable in the handling" of the situation. "We're lucky to have such large-spirited people here."
If a recount produces a tie vote, Van Schie said the reeve position would then be decided by lot by the township clerk.
"One of you or maybe both of you are going to have to lose weight, because we're only going to put one chair there," Coun. Barton joked following the meeting.
PRESCOTT Members of Prescott council offered some parting words and a few parting shots as they attended an emotion-filled final meeting before the incoming council takes office.
The meeting held Monday night at town hall gave council members a chance to thank their colleagues and staff as council's three-year term comes to a close. But included in the observations of four council members was criticism of coverage in the Prescott Journal and the actions of its publisher and managing editor, John Morris.
The first to make reference to Morris was Councillor Mike Berrea, who said it was too bad the publisher could not have made more meetings and seen how hard council worked, especially Councillor Craig Worden.
Councillor Evelyn Dales said the local paper did some "extremely biased and negative" reporting. She said Morris has done more harm to the town than any councillor could do.
Councillor John McAuley said the best word to describe Morris is "mean." He was unfair to individual councillors and staff and mean to council as a whole, the councillor added.
McAuley suggested it was no coincidence that coverage in the paper changed when council did not reappoint Morris to the South Grenville Economic Development Commission. McAuley said there was a time when he had "a great deal of respect" for Morris and the hard work he was doing.
Mayor Doug Hayes said in a prepared statement that council got five years of objective reporting by The Journal while he was on the commission. "Once you were replaced, you used your newspaper to take cheap shots at councillors and myself in the way we conducted council business on behalf of our community," the mayor stated. "People who live in glass houses should not throw stones!" Hayes added.
The mayor went on to state that Morris has the ability to have a positive effect on the community, but chose instead to be negative about the community and its leaders. "I guess you have left your Prescott Pride in Augusta," Hayes said.
In response to the comments made by some members of council, Morris said he figures he has done his job. "I got rid of a very ineffectual council and the town backed me," he stated during a telephone interview.
Morris went on to say that the newspaper never received letters to the editor criticizing the stand taken by the paper and himself. The fact that only one member of the current council will return to serve on the new council and that person was not returned by a vote is further evidence that the community supported his approach to town council.
Some council members noted that their comments were not aimed at staff at the newspaper.
Most of the comments made by departing council members at the meeting dealt with their time on council, the contribution made by staff and the issues they faced during their term. In noting that it has been "an education," Councillor Frank Whiten thanked staff and past and present councils. "I wish the new council all the best," he said.
Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead said this council felt a true need to do something and is to be commended. Beckstead, the lone member who will also serve on the incoming council, added this council worked very well together and approached things "..with the best interest of the town at heart." Although she looks forward to the new council term, Beckstead feels a sense a loss about the end of the current one.
Councillor Craig Worden, who was appointed deputy mayor earlier this fall, said he gained a great deal of knowledge during his three years on council. In noting the infrastructure project and other items with which council has dealt, Worden said he is proud of what council has been able to accomplish.
"The town is on the road to recovery," he commented.
An emotional Worden went on to state he is a far richer man to have known each of the other council members.
McAuley handed out roses to citizens who volunteer and make the town a better place to live. The councillor gave out thorns to those residents who have allowed their taxes to go into arrears. McAuley said the current rate is 24 per cent; the town's auditor indicated the normal rate for municipalities is about half of that, the councillor added.
McAuley read to council a poem he wrote about the term that is about to end. "For some I was successful, for others I was not," he said. "Hopefully, everyone understood I gave them all my best shot."
As for the mayor, he also thanked his fellow council members, staff and others who have served on different boards and commissions. "We had to deal with some very difficult decisions and although we may not have agreed all the time, I have always respected your opinions," Hayes said.
PRESCOTT The Fort Town Boosters and the Prescott Fire Department invite you to Light Up the Night Friday.
The event signals the start of the Christmas season in the South Grenville area, and organizers promise those attending will feel the "Christmas Magic."
The fifth annual festivities begin at 7 p.m. when the Help Santa Light Up the Night parade leaves South Grenville District High School. The parade organized by the Prescott Fire Department under the guidance of Brent Norton and Lorne Watling will feature 50 floats and four marching bands. The parade will travel south on Edward St. to King, west on King to St. Lawrence St. and then north to the Newell and Hathaway parking lots.
Longtime Prescott resident W.A. (Pat) Kingston is parade marshall. Doug Hayes, Su Villeneuve and reverend Gerry Ring have been selected as judges.
Santa will be travelling on the fire department's 1931 Bickle truck and surrounded by more than 5,000 brightly coloured lights.
Schools, private and commercial businesses and service clubs have all entered floats, making this the largest Christmas parade ever to be staged in the Fort Town.
Following the parade, the Fort Town Boosters stage show hosted by Dawn Adams and Nikki Glock will begin in the municipal parking lot. It is estimated that more than 5,000 people attended the event last year despite pelting rain and high winds.
Following the entertainment at the clock tower, karaoke will get underway in the auditorium of the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Henry St. Hot dogs, potato chips and drinks will be given away to those who attend.
Recording artist Tammy Raybould, who will perform at the stage show, will be at the karaoke to meet those who attend. Copies of her new release "Maybe" featuring the hit single "Loving You" will be available for a nominal fee.
Prior to the parade, a homemade spaghetti dinner will be served at the Legion Hall. There will be a nominal admission fee; proceeds go to Legion projects.
The public is reminded that certain streets will be closed for pedestrian safety at different times lead ing up to and during the event Friday due to anticipated traffic problems. The municipal parking lot will be closed all day Friday as crews deliver staging, dressing rooms and sound equipment for the nighttime show. Centre St. From King to Water will be closed from 5 to 9 p.m., as will the town dock area. Parking on King St. from Edward to George will not be permitted starting at 5 p.m.; there must be ample room for the large tractor-trailer floats to travel on the street.
King St. will be closed from Edward to George beginning at 7 p.m. until the stage show concludes at approximately 9 p.m.
Motorists travelling to town are advised to arrive early, as through traffic into town from the east and west will be diverted from King via Boundary and Sophia streets. Side streets can be used to get close to the downtown core.
PRESCOTT A meeting for Leeds-Grenville candidates running in the Nov. 27 federal election will be held Thursday, Nov. 23 in Prescott.
The all-candidates meeting will be held at the Prescott Legion Hall starting at 7 p.m. The event is being organized by the Kiwanis Club of Prescott in conjunction with Royal Canadian Legion Branch 97.
Each candidate will make an introductory speech; a question-and-answer period will follow.
The six candidates seeking the nod in Leeds-Grenville are Gord Brown of the Canadian Alliance, Martin Hanratty of the NDP, Jerry Heath of the Green party, John M. Johnston of the Progressive Conservatives, Joe Jordan of the Liberals and Jane Pamela Scharf of the Canadian Action party.
PRESCOTT Free flu vaccinations will be available to the public this month in Spencerville and Prescott.
A special clinic will be held Monday, Nov. 27 at Centennial Public School in Spencerville. Vaccinations will be administered from noon to 8 p.m. Another special clinic will be held Thursday, Nov. 30 at South Grenville District High School. This clinic will also run from noon to 8 p.m.
The province announced this summer that free flu shots would be offered to all Ontarians. People in high-risk categories, including the elderly and caregivers, were the focus of an immunization campaign earlier this fall.
PRESCOTT South Grenville-area families wishing to apply for Spirit of Giving food and gift baskets from the Kinsmen Club of Prescott are being advised that registration for the program takes place next week.
Registration will be held Monday through Friday (Nov. 27 to Dec. 1) from 13 p.m. in the lobby of town hall in Prescott.
Club representatives will be on hand to register families and record necessary information for distribution. The registration period will not be extended; recipients of food packages must register next week.
The packages will be distributed Sunday, Dec. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Gym C area of South Grenville District High School.
PRESCOTT A collection of non-perishable food items and donations will be held along the Light Up the Night Parade route this Friday in Prescott.
The campaign is a food and fund drive to feed the needy at Christmas in area communities. The drive feeds about 300 families for a week each year during the holiday season.
PRESCOTT The people have spoken on the charity casino issue, and the loudest voice has come from the Fort Town
Voters in each of the four municipalities that conducted referendums as part of the Nov. 13 municipal election indicated varying degrees of support for locating a charity casino in their communities.
The largest margin of victory occurred in Prescott, where approximately 72 per cent of voters who went to the polls indicated their support. Almost 1,300 'yes' votes were cast in the Fort Town, compared to 500 on the 'no' side.
In Gananoque, 1,494 voters (62 per cent) said yes to locating a charity casino in their community; 927 voters said no.
Voters in the new Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands voted 59 per cent in favour of having a casino.
The narrowest win for the yes side came in Brockville, where the margin of victory was less than 200 votes.
The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Business Improvement Area registered as charity casino proponents as part of the municipal referendum process. Sharon Spychi, chair of the chamber's casino sub-committee, said last week that the results of the Prescott vote are "wonderful." However, she would have liked to see more people go to the polls and indicate their support.
Even with an overwhelming yes vote in the referendum, Prescott council must also indicate its support for a charity casino. The outgoing council approved a resolution Monday to support a casino and recommended the incoming council to do the same, as well as "...agree to rezoning actions if necessary and agree with the proposed revenue sharing with the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation."
Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead gave notice of motion Monday that she would be bringing forward a resolution in support of a charity casino when the incoming council meets next month.
Each of the seven members of the incoming council have indicated to The Journal that he or she supports the casino or is willing to go along with what the electorate decides.
Committee members and town officials met with Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation representatives Nov. 1. A charity casino would create an estimated 250 to 300 full-time jobs, Spychi reported.
A report issued six months ago ranked Prescott third on the list of four communities in the region being considered as the site for a charity casino. The fact that support for a charity casino is strongest in Prescott should be emphasized to government officials, chamber directors noted.
"We have just as much chance as they do," she said.
PRESCOTT The outgoing town council will not recommend what it feels should be done about the future of policing in Prescott.
Council had indicated earlier this month that it would be making public its recommendation to the incoming council Nov. 20. Town officials have been considering the possibility of entering into a contract with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) to carry out municipal policing now being provided by the Prescott Police Service.
But Councillor Frank Whiten reported Monday that council did not have certain pieces of information with which it had hoped to come up with a recommendation. Those items related to new adequacy standards being imposed by the province as well as cost estimates to renovate the existing police station at the intersection of Henry and Centre streets.
Both options appear to have similar annual operating costs in the range of $1.1 million. However, one-time costs associated with new operating standards must also be factored into the decision-making process.
Whiten said most of the work has been done, and the incoming council should be able to make "a swift decision" shortly after it takes office early next month.
None of the seven members of council present at the meeting indicated whether he or she had a preference for either the town police service or the OPP. Councillor John McAuley said the public would not see major changes if council were to opt for the OPP; officers now serving with the municipal service will transfer to the OPP, he added.
McAuley said the one major change would be leadership, something he noted people in the town may want to see.
A public information session hosted last month by town council produced significant negative feedback about the OPP option. However, some council members said later they did not feel the views expressed at the meeting were representative of the community as a whole.
SPENCERVILLE The Township of Edwardsburgh council supports the request by an area council for the re-instatement of the wolf bounty.
The resolution was received by council from the Municipality of the Township of Front of Leeds and Lansdowne. That council passed the re-instatement of the wolf bounty resolution on Oct. 10. In a letter to Edwardsburgh council from the Front of Leeds and Lansdowne council, it stated that "the number of livestock killed or injured by wolves has been steadily increasing over the last ten years."
The township is petitioning the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to reinstate a bounty on wolves. The correspondence is being circulated to all townships within Eastern Ontario.
SPENCERVILLE An interim bylaw controlling livestock operations passed its third reading Monday night at the Township of Edwardsburgh regular council meeting.
The bylaw, which prohibits the building of any new livestock facility or the expansion of any existing facility that exceeds 300 livestock units, had received its first two reading in April. But at the time, the number of livestock units was set at 150 units. (Livestock units means the equivalent values for various types of animal and poultry based on manure production and production cycles.)
The proposed bylaw had been met with opposition from local farmers when it received its readings in the spring. A committee was struck to study the issue of a nutrient management bylaw. The committee had been waiting on a province's guidelines for a nutrient management plan before it proceeded. Reeve Dave Dobbie said that they were told that these guidelines would be available by mid-November, but at council Monday night, the province still had provided the guidelines.
With council still waiting on the province, Dobbie said the discussion was made to pass the amended bylaw.
Dobbie said that at issue was the number of livestock units, which this bylaw addresses. Dobbie said that council decided to go forward with the interim bylaw, which can be revoked at any time, because of its importance to the whole community.
"I feel [the bylaw] is that critical to be in place," Dobbie said. He added that he wants to ensure that the water supply in the municipality is safe for all to enjoy.
Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan has been named one of Canada's 13 "green" members of parliament, according to a news release issued Monday by a national conservation organization.
The list was compiled by Wildcanada.net in consultation with other national environmental groups, the release states.
"These 13 MPs demonstrate the best of what Canadians look for in their Parliamentarians," stated Stephen Legault, executive director of Wildcanada.net.
Of the 13 MPs selected to the list, eight are Liberals; there are also three New Democrats, a Progressive Conservative and a member of the Bloc Quebecois.
By Tim Runke - Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT It is crunch time for candidates in Leeds-Grenville and throughout Canada as the federal election campaign enters its final days.
Incumbent Liberal MP Joe Jordan faces five challengers in his bid for re-election.
The other federal candidates in Leeds-Grenville are John Johnston of the Progressive Conservatives, Gord Brown of the Canadian Alliance, Jerry Heath of the Green party, Martin Hanratty of the New Democrats and Jane Scharf of the Canada Action party.
An all-candidates meeting will be held Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Legion Hall. The meeting is sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Prescott in conjunction with Royal Canadian Legion Branch 97.
Several prominent politicians have visited Leeds-Grenville in the past few weeks to boost the campaigns of local candidates. Prime Minister and Liberal leader Jean Chrétien visited South Grenville District High School yesterday afternoon.
Federal Liberal cabinet ministers Paul Martin and John Manley have also appeared with Jordan in Brockville and Kemptville respectively. Alliance leader Stockwell Day made whistle-stop visits to Kemptville and Brockville earlier in the campaign and visited Gananoque yesterday. Provincial Conservative cabinet minister Tony Clement was in Prescott at the opening of Brown's campaign office. Maureen McTeer, wife of Conservative leader Joe Clark, was in Brockville Saturday to lend support to Johnston.
Alliance leadership candidate Tom Long is scheduled to appear at a rally Saturday night in Brockville.
The Liberals held a majority of seats in the House of Commons when the election was called last month; the party is hoping to form a third consecutive majority government.
PRESCOTT Canadians go to the polls this coming Monday, and anyone whose name has yet to be added to the voters list can still cast a ballot in the federal election.
The third and final advance poll was held this past Monday. Barbara Mills, returning officer for Leeds-Grenville, reported Monday that voter turnout at the first two advance polls Friday and Saturday "...seemed to be a little more than usual." She said workers at the returning office have been busy making revisions to the voters list.
Voters whose names appear on the preliminary list of electors should have already received a card in the mail from Elections Canada. But any prospective voter can still vote in Monday's federal election even if his or her name did not get on the preliminary or revised voters list. Elections Canada acknowledged in a news release last week that its advertising campaign has been focused on getting names on the voters list. However, ads being run in the days prior to the election will indicate that electors can get on the list at polling stations on election day.
"You can register ('get on the list') on election day at your polling station, but voting is much more straightforward for electors who are already on the list before election day," stated Jean-Pierre Kingsley, chief electoral officer of Canada.
Prospective voters should have sufficient identification with them when they register. Mills said that a driver's licence with up-to-date address information would be ideal. Other pieces of identification which include the person's name and address, and items which include a name and signature, would also be suitable.
Polls will be open Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Mills recommends voters should not wait until the last minute to vote if they are unsure whether their name appears on the voters list.
The riding office has a toll-free number (1-866-531-5995) to provide information about voting procedures. Service is available Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
The national toll-free number is 1-800-INFO-VOTE.
Approximately 500 people are working in the riding as clerks, poll supervisors and information officers, or at the returning office.
The Elections Canada Web site (www.elections.ca) will provide updated results on election night for each electoral district.
BROCKVILLE A North Augusta-area man has received a nine-month conditional sentence for filing fraudulent GST claims, the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (CCRA) has reported.
Michael Duff, the self-employed owner of Realistic Autobody Shop, received a nine-month conditional sentence Nov. 16 in Brockville court after pleading guilty to two counts of fraud under the Excise Tax Act.
Duff, 39, of RR 4 North Augusta, was convicted of wilfully obtaining or attempting to obtain $60,508 in GST refunds from 1991 to 1997.
Following a routine audit of business records, an investigation revealed that the shop's invoices failed to support the vast majority of purchases for which GST credits were claimed. Duff had claimed input tax credits on purchases of more than $910,000 over a six-year period, according to a CCRA news release; his reported sales for GST during the same period totalled less than $152,000.
Under the terms of his conditional sentence, Duff is confined to his residence with the exception of specific periods permitted by the court.
The maximum penalty for such an offence is a fine of 200 per cent of the taxes evaded and imprisonment for two years. In addition to any fine imposed by a court, anyone convicted of tax evasion is required to pay the full amount of taxes owed plus interest and penalties.
Although it is noted in the news release that CCRA will challenge non-compliance with tax laws, it is also stated that individuals who have not filed returns for previous years or have not reported all their income can voluntarily correct their tax affairs without being penalized or prosecuted that is, if they fully disclose the information to CCRA before the agency starts any action or investigation against them. Those individuals would still be required to pay the taxes owing plus interest.
ALGONQUIN - The Friends of the Augusta Public Library recently raised $300 to purchase new books. A raffle was held Oct. 28, with the winners announced by Rev. Linda Winton of the North Augusta Pastoral Charge.
First prize of $500 went to Frank Liston. Doug Hayes won the second prize of a Ducks Unlimited print framed by Leo Beaudoin Woodworking. Joan Green won a handmade afghan donated by Joanne Edwards. Sarah Bell won a $50 gift certificate donated by Independent Grocers, and the fifth prize of a $20 gift certificate for the 1,000 Islands Mall went to Cindy Nevins.
A book and bake sale held Oct. 19 raised $249.90 for the library.
The Friends of the Augusta Township Public Library are actively seeking new members. Anyone interested may contact Chastity Stephenson at 658-5526, or Clara Derrick at 345-1192.
By Jeff Lee- Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT Five-year-old Taylor Henderson and her mother Rosemary wait to meet Prime Minister Jean Chrétien near the end a row of students at South Grenville District High School Tuesday afternoon.
Taylor and Rosemary drove from their home in Kemptville to meet the PM after hearing that he and his wife Aline were going to be at the high school .
Taylor wanted to meet the Prime Minister and give him a picture she had drawn and addressed to him.
After hearing the Prime Minister was going to be at the high that afternoon, Rosemary called the Liberal Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan's Brockville office asking if she and her daughter could met the Prime Minister. The person on the line, Rosemary said, asked how could she prove who she was when the Prime Minister visited the school to take a tour of it and speak to the students.
So the two wait near the foyer of the school after the Prime Minister had spent about an hour in the school. Both are dressed in red from head to toe, and Taylor has a button of the Prime Minister grinning pinned to her fleece sweater.
Rosemary says that every since Taylor saw Chrétien on television the Prime Minister has had her daughter's, that's if she could vote.
Taylor explained that she didn't like Stockwell Day because he likes guns.
"[Chrétien] is not for guns," Taylor said. "That's why I like him."
Rosemary and her husband Anthony home school their daughter and she said she wanted to give her daughter the opportunity to meet him.
When the Prime Minister saw Taylor standing all decked out in red, he accepted her drawing and bent down and gave her a hug. Taylor gave the Prime Minister a kiss.
As the Prime Minister made his exist, Rosemary had tears in her eyes as did some students who were standing near by.
By Tim Ruhnke- Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT Many people may have heard of the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs but are unsure of what they do.
These two fraternal orders with a long history in Prescott are hoping for a long and successful future in the community.
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is a world-wide brotherhood that pledges to support its members and relieve the suffering of others through charitable giving. The Rebekahs, a branch of the Odd Fellows, is a sisterhood that like its counterparts has lodges and meets on a regular basis.
The Odd Fellows in Prescott (Amity Lodge) dates back to 1871. Wellington Rebekah Lodge #108 was founded on Nov. 28, 1911.
There are an estimated 15,000 Odd Fellows and Rebekahs in Ontario.
A banquet in honour of the Grand Master of Ontario, Robert Schwalm, was held Nov. 9 in Prescott. Schwalm told the gathering that the organization has quietly gone about its business in the past and has not made a point of publicizing its good deeds. Most people are not familiar with the work being done by Odd Fellows, something the grand master said must change.
"How are we going to get members if nobody knows who we are," he said.
The grand master explained that it was the Odd Fellows who founded Camp Trillium and have continued to support it. However, other service organizations have contributed large amounts of money to the cause and may have overshadowed the ongoing efforts of the Odd Fellows.
"Let them know we need their help with camps for children with cancer," Schwalm said.
The grand master said the effort to increase the profile of the group is working; there is a modern-day record level of new members in Ontario.
Myrtle Hull, president of the Rebekah Association of Ontario, was also in Prescott recently as part of a tour of lodges in Eastern Ontario.
"It's biblical work... But we are not a religious group," Hull said.
"It's a place where you can go and feel at home," she added. "We do reach out to one another and support each other."
Brenda McConnell, the Noble Grand of the Wellington Lodge, said honouring and supporting senior members of the Rebekahs is important to the lodge.
"Without them, there would be no lodge," she said.
Hazel Dafoe became a 70-year veteran jewel member last year. Edna Bryan received her 60-year jewel earlier this year. Other longtime members of the lodge are recognized for their contributions.
Terry McConnell, Brenda's husband, is the Noble Grand of the Amity Lodge. He shares the view that the time has come to make the public more aware of what the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs are all about.
One of the projects undertaken by the Odd Fellows and Rebekahs is the United Nations Pilgrimage for Youth. Young adults from around the world travel to New York City and other destinations on the east coast. The program is aimed at giving students an opportunity to see the United Nations and introduce them to other cultures. The pilgrimage is also meant to teach students respect and compassion for others, as well as the value of feeling good about themselves and helping other people. The sponsoring lodge covers all expenses.
Leanne Gibson, a Grade 12 student at South Grenville District High School, took part in the pilgrimage this past summer.
"This trip was the most fun-filled two weeks of my life... something I will treasure forever," Gibson said at the Nov. 9 banquet.
Gibson has been speaking to local students about her experience and the knowledge she obtained during her visit to the United Nations. The Odd Fellows and Rebekahs of Prescott are now accepting applications for next year's pilgrimage. Interested high school students who will be 16 or 17 next summer with at least one year of high school remaining are being asked to submit their names by the end of November.
For more information, call 925-3866 or 925-1818.
PRESCOTT The Prescott Public Library is holding a special fundraiser this holiday season. On Thursday, Dec. 28, while families are home for the holidays, family portraits will be taken at the Prescott Public Library.
It's a great opportunity to have a professional family portrait taken and also help purchase new books for the public library, said Librarian Jane McGuire. There is a small fee for each portrait sitting. All proceeds will be donated to the library's book fund. The photographs will be taken by Prescott photographer Christine Endicott.
Prescott Public Library Board Chairman John Houston encourages everyone to take advantage of this opportunity by bringing the family to the library on Thursday, Dec. 28. Houston noted that family portraits are also great Christmas gifts for mom, and gift certificates can be purchased at the library.
Sittings will be held during the afternoon and evening and must be booked in advance. Drop by the library during regular hours or call 925-4340 for more information.
ALGONQUIN PUBLIC SCHOOL On Wednesday, Nov. 22 there will be a parent council meeting at 7 p.m. in the school library. On Thursday, Nov. 23, parent/teacher interviews begin at 3:30 p.m. at the school, and on Friday, Nov. 24, which is a PA day, interviews continue in the morning.
BENSON PUBLIC SCHOOL On Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24 parent teacher interviews will be held at the school. Friday is also a PA day.
BOUNDARY PUBLIC SCHOOL On Wednesday, Nov. 22, there will be dental screening for the group A Kindergarten students. Boundary school has entered a float in Light Up the Night, which is Friday, Nov. 24, starting at 7 p.m. The students have been very busy preparing for this special event. Also, don't forget that Friday, Nov. 24 is a PA day, and there are parent interviews at the school until 12 p.m. There are no classes for students. The students are also preparing Christmas stories, pictures etcetera for the Prescott Journal. Please remember to bring a non-parishable food item to place in the barrel for the Spirit of Giving Campaign.
CENTENNIAL '67 - NORTH EDWARDSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS Our intermediate students took part in an in-school volleyball tournament on Tuesday, Nov. 21. Students will run a noon-hour barbecue.
The Scholastic book fair is open at both sites this week, from Nov. 22 to 24. Report cards went home on Tuesday. Interviews between parents and teachers will be held on Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24.
CENTRAL PUBLIC SCHOOL Report cards will be sent home this week. Parent/teacher conferences will be held Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24. Friday, Nov. 24 is a Professional Activity day.
Newcomball begins at noonhour for Grade 4, 5 and 6 students. The senior girls volleyball team will be in a tournament on Saturday, Nov. 25. The senior boys volleyball team will compete in a tournament in Kemptville on Sunday, Nov. 26.
SOUTH EDWARDSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOL Student-led conferences will be held at the school on Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24. Friday is also a PA day. The Learning Lab hours are Mondays and Wednesdays from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the school.
MAYNARD PUBLIC SCHOOL Interviews will be held at the school Thursday, Nov. 23 and Friday, Nov. 24. Interviews will be conducted all day Friday, which is a PA day.
ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL Interviews will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 23. On Friday, Nov. 24, which is a PA day, interviews will continue throughout the day.
ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL Report cards will be released on Thursday, Nov. 23. Friday, Nov. 24 is a PA day. Pizza will be available to purchase for lunch on Thurday, Nov. 23.
By Willy Sieling Heuvel
How fast this year has flown by. We are already writing about our annual open house scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 10 from 2 to 4 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Refreshments will be served, and there will be a sing-a-long. We are in the process of seeing if the South Grenville Guild of Fine Art is able to exhibit its work again. Come look around and join in the different activities we offer on a weekly basis.
Doug Fraser was the well-deserved recipient of the Senior of the Year Award, presented to him at the board of management meeting by Mayor Doug Hayes. Congratulations, Doug, we are proud of all you have done for Walker House through the years!
Another big thank you is due Elsie Lawrence for helping clean the 'onions' at the Nov. 4 dinner. Claire Lucey, thanks for coming in to help clean up; it was much appreciated.
Winners at the card tables last week were: Monday bridge Joyce Nesbitt, 1st; Bea Hemsley, 2nd; Joyce Nesbitt also won the door prize. Tuesday cribbage Myrtle Shahan, high hand and high score; Jean Annable, 2nd; Mary Mulder, 3rd; Mary Reynolds won the door prize. Wednesday bridge Harry Nesbitt, 1st; Margaret Nesbitt, 2nd; Bea Hemsley won the door prize. Thursday euchre Jean Annable, 1st; Marie Shahan, 2nd; Claire Marchand, 3rd; Alice Crowder won the door prize.
Winners at the card tables two weeks ago were: Monday bridge Margaret Nesbitt, 1st; Sam Covey, 2nd; Audrey Kingston won the door prize. Tuesday cribbage high hand, Lou Baldwin; high score, Sam Covey; 2nd, Alice Crowder; 3rd, Eleanor Gilligan. Wednesday bridge Harry Nesbitt, 1st; Jim Campbell, 2nd; Audrey Kingston won the door prize. Thursday euchre 1st, Mary Reynolds; 2nd, Jeannine Marion.
PRESCOTT Ice booms are to be installed this week in narrow stretches of the St. Lawrence River between Morrisburg and Prescott, Ontario Power Generation reports.
Booms are being placed in narrow stretches of the river off Galop Island, in the North Channel at Iroquois, off Johnstown and near Prescott.
Users of the river, including recreational boaters, hunters and anglers, are advised to take extra care in areas in which booms have been placed since they can present a hazard.
Ice booms are placed in the same narrow areas of the river each November and are removed in the spring when the ice melts and before the shipping season begins.
The Editor:
I am a former resident of Johnstown, where I lived from 1953-57 after emigrating from England with my parents. I returned to England in 1957. I have recently acquired an internet browser and was delighted to find your Prescott Journal. I have added my name and e-mail address to your list. What a great idea.
I have now been able to show my family photos and information about Prescott and the Fort which they have found very interesting as I have always spoken to them of my time in your beautiful country. I loved your country and its people. I used to work at RCA Victor on Sophia Street and wonder if it is still there. It was certainly the happiest job I've ever had.
When I lived in Johnstown, Prescott had a population of just over 3,000 residents, and houses in Johnstown were few and far between. The bridge over the St.Lawrence hadn't been built and work was still in progress on the St.Lawrence Seaway Project. My mother, who still lives in Prescott, tells me I wouldn't recognize the place now. Still, that's progress I guess.
Looking forward to next week's Journal. Still hoping to see a name I might recognize, but after all these years away, that is doubtful.
Mrs Eileen Scott
(formerly Tonkin)
The Editor;
I read the editorial about Ruth Evanson and at the end you asked "why no wall of fame for teachers?" I never had Ruth Evanson for a teacher so I won't express an opinion on that subject, but if the high school takes your advice for a wall of fame I would like to nominate Frank DiNoble.
Mr. DiNoble was my English teacher in grades 9 and 11. As a teacher he introduced me to Shakespeare and I have loved watching the plays ever since. He read the plays aloud to us and made them come alive.
As a person he took an interest in his students. I still have a vivid memory of him sitting down next to me in the cafeteria one afternoon and asking me if anything was wrong and if he could do anything to help (he knew I was under stress and was not achieving my usual good results in his class.) I still wish to this day I had confided in him. I knew he was sincere and had I been more mature I realize now he probably could have helped me.
Chris (Blankenhorn) Babson
PRESCOTT The Prescott Police Service investigated 57 general incidents and one motor vehicle accident between Nov. 1219.
Town police investigated a break and enter Nov. 13 at an Edward St. Residence. A small amount of damage to the rear door was reported, but there was no report of anything having been taken from the residence.
On Nov. 15, police investigated a case of wilful damage to a back hoe parked at a Wood St. business. A window on the back hoe was damaged; damage is estimated at $800.
Prescott police received a sexual assault complaint Nov. 16 from a 17-year-old female. The accused is known to the alleged victim. The matter remains under investigation, and no other information is available.
On Nov. 17, police received a sexual assault complaint involving a female minor. The accused is known to the alleged victim. This matter also remains under investigation.
Anyone with information regarding these or other offences is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Town police will be stepping up their patrols and conducting RIDE checks at various locations as the festive season arrives. Officers will also be checking for seat belt and other violations.
NORTH AUGUSTA Five people face charges in connection with a home invasion that took place Nov. 14 at a rural residence in the north end of Augusta township.
Grenville County OPP were called to the residence just before midnight.
A woman reported that several people had forced their way into the home and assaulted her; they had fled the scene before police arrived.
The victim was taken to Brockville General Hospital, treated and released.
Four suspects were arrested within a day of the incident; a fifth suspect turned himself in to police.
The suspects have been charged with unlawfully being in a dwelling, mischief over $5,000 and assault causing bodily harm.
Constable Sandra Barr of the Leeds County OPP detachment said police are reluctant to identify the victim or the suspects, as well as the location of the residence where the incident occurred. The victim knows four of the five suspects, according to police.
Barr noted two of the five suspects are women; one is 22 and resides in Wolford township, and the other is 25 and lives in Cardinal.
The three male suspects are a 27-year-old from Wolford township, a 23-year-old from Ottawa and a 20-year-old who lives in Manotick.
The Leeds and Grenville Crime Unit of the OPP is continuing its investigation.
PRESCOTT Organizers of a men's group in the Prescott area are optimistic about the future of the new organization.
There used to be a men's group many years ago in Prescott. The concept resurfaced in April at St. Paul's United Church, according to Carl Robinson, one of the group's organizers. He recalled that Matt Hayes and Gerry Carey indicated an interest in forming such a group.
After some discussion, it was decided to give the concept a chance. The new men's group would be community-minded and provide an opportunity for comradery. Robinson said other members of the local ministerial association have been made aware of the group's existence. Rev. John Reynolds is now spearheading the organization, Robinson noted.
The new group's first project had its roots in a church function that was months away. An estimated 200300 pounds of potatoes were required for a smorgasbord held last week at the church. Robinson has property on County Road 26 on which potatoes were planted, grown and picked for use at the recent event.
The new men's group has received a positive response in its early days. Thirty-six people attended the fledgling group's first breakfast meeting Oct. 26 in the auditorium at St. Paul's. Some came from Brockville, Spencerville and other communities in the area.
The plan is to host monthly breakfast meetings on Saturdays, according to Robinson. There may also be guest speakers at the get-togethers. The meetings could be held in different locations, he said.
"We want everyone in this area to feel welcome," said Robinson.
Although the men's group has its origins at St. Paul's, organizers emphasize the group is open to all denominations and men of all ages.
"It's not just for seniors, that's for sure," Robinson said.
The next breakfast meeting will be held Saturday, Nov. 25 at St. Paul's beginning at 8 a.m. Decisions may be made at that meeting with respect to the selection of an executive and a name for the group, Robinson said.
Robinson acknowledged it may take awhile to figure out the focus of the new men's group and what its goals will be. However, he is optimistic that the positive response received to date bodes well for the future of the organization.
For more information about the men's group, call Carl Robinson at 925-5720 or Rev. John Reynolds at 925-0973.
PRESCOTT A Spencerville-area woman has been charged in connection with the recent escape and subsequent recapturing of convicted murderer James Lawrence Hutchison, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.
Eszter Gale Bailey, 34, has been charged with assisting the escape of Hutchison and possession of marihuana.
Bailey was arrested Nov. 11 when members of three different police units executed a search warrant and apprehended Hutchison at a Beverly St. residence just west of Spencerville. Hutchison, 73, was serving a life sentence at the Pittsburgh Institution in Kingston when he fled custody during a volunteer work placement at the Kingston Humane Society.
Bailey was released from custody last week and is scheduled to appear in Brockville court Dec. 15.
Hutchison has been charged with escaping lawful federal custody and is being held at Millhaven Correctional Facility.
The police investigation is continuing.
PRESCOTT The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce is proposing increases to its membership fees.
The chamber's board of directors has approved a new fee structure which calls for increases of between $10 and $50, depending on the type of membership. In adopting the new structure at its Nov. 16 meeting, the board noted in would clarify whether the chamber's constitution requires membership approval before the new fees can be implemented.
Mike Boyles of the membership committee said the financial resources of the chamber have decreased significantly in recent years, and small fee increases are necessary. "If we don't do something like this, we won't have a chamber," Boyles said.
The proposed annual fees range from $30 for a non-business membership to $210 for businesses which have between 51 and 100 employees. About three-quarters of the Prescott chamber's 138 members are businesses with one to five employees.
Even with the increases, chamber membership fees in Prescott remain much lower than those charged by the chamber of commerce in Brockville.
Andrew Joseph Heaton, 1340 Kensington Parkway, Brockville, died Nov. 13, 2000 at home. He was in his 30th year.
He was born Dec. 15, 1970 in Brockville, to Gerald (June) Heaton of Ottawa and Christine (Charlie) Toupin of Cardinal.
Mr. Heaton grew up in Brockville, attending Thousand Island School. He played hockey as a youngster and was also a Beaver, Scout and a member of the Brockville Rifles.
He worked at Canadian Tire in Brockville in the automotive department for many years. Most recently, he was employed by The Brockville Recorder and Times.
Mr. Heaton was interested in and collected classic cars and trucks. He enjoyed reading and spending time with family and friends.
Mr. Heaton is survived by his parents; his brother, Christian John Heaton of Kanata and his sister Julie Peck of Dartmouth, NS. He was an uncle to James and Patrick Peck of Belleville, and the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Ira Munro, Mrs. Hilliary Heaton and the late Richard Heaton. He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.
A private memorial service was held Nov. 17 at the Marsden McLaughlin Funeral Home, Cardinal, with Rev. Joe Barkley-Probst officiating.
Memorial donations to the Canadian Diabetic Association would be appreciated.
Prime Minister Jean Chrétien speaking to students and staff at
South Grenville District High School
HARRIS MOVE MIGHT BACKFIRE: When Ontario Premier Mike Harris released his cabinet and the Ontario caucus and their supporters to back Canadian Alliance leader Stockwell Day in this federal election campaign, he wasn't looking much beyond November 27. It seems that Harris, along with thousands of federal Tory supporters, had lost hope that leader Joe Clark would ever get out of the blocks in this campaign. However, it would have been a more astute move on behalf of the Ontario Progressive Conservatives if Harris had consulted Clark on his campaign strategy and then decided whether or not to support him. If Harris is coveting the national PC leadership then he should be aware that there will be a payback time by the loyal Tories.
The shifting of the Ontario PC support to Stockwell Day for this election could strip the Ontario PCs dry come the next provincial election should Clark continue to climb in the polls and finish well in the Nov. 27 election. With the Tory support in Ontario split about 50-50 on a provincial-federal basis, Harris might be hard-pressed to face down a surge from the Liberals in the next Ontario election. It is unlikely Mr. Clark will turn the other cheek and tell his loyalists of today to help the Tory party that has been working so hard to defeat him in this election.
Clark and the federal Tories, just a week before balloting, are firmly entrenched in fourth place in the polls, but the walls around the Liberal and Alliance fortresses are starting to show dangerous cracks. More and more Ontario voters are beginning to feel uncomfortable with Day's right wing attitude, and Jean Chrétien is struggling to keep his name free from scandal.
In Leeds and Grenville it looks like a tight three-way race between incumbent Liberal Joe Jordan, Alliance candidate Gord Brown and PC hopeful John Johnston. We expect to see the Pcs and the Alliance to run stronger in this election than the Pcs and Reform did in the 1997 federal contest. This means that Joe Jordan and his troops will have to pick up about 4,000 more votes in this election than in 1997 when he defeated Sandra Lawn by about 3500 votes. In the 1993 election his father, Jim Jordan, collected 26,567 votes to Lawn's 13,608, close to a two-to-one majority. This lead dwindled by over 7,000 votes last time around and Lawn only picked up about 2,000 of them. The remaining 5,000 represented former supporters who did not vote. Jordan's challenge is to get most of these 5,000 voters back to the polls next Monday and keep them from shifting their support to Brown or Johnston. It will be a close one.
John A.H. Morris,
Managing Editor
Jeff Lee
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA It must be hard waking up to sunshine and palm trees most every day. Despite the darkened concrete and slick pavement from an early morning rain, I couldn't help but wonder what it would be like living in a place where, more often than not, sunshine was forecasted. Maybe it was the rain and cool weather greeting me on Friday morning in San Diego that had me thinking about paradise lost. Or maybe it was the prediction of more rain over the next several days which, despite a lot of careful planning having gone into the wedding between my sister Kyra and her fiancé Don, looked as if it were going to be a rained upon.
Whatever the reason, I was pretty sure of what had me strolling north on Orange Avenue on Coronado, a piece of San Diego that juts out into the San Diego Bay, at 8 a.m. A combination of a 22-hour day, a three-hour time change, my dad's snoring and sharing a double bed with my brother Jay was what had me taking in the sites of Coronado.
Since it was only 8 a.m., I had time to kill before going to the tuxedo shop to get my jacket adjusted. The marathon of measurements taken for the rental resulted in only the right arm of the tux needing just two inches added on. The rest of Friday was to be consumed by a boat cruise and dinner.
After racing to docks in three vehicles, we arrived with about five minutes to spare. The tour lasted about an hour, which included gliding past condos on Coronoda with starting prices of $500,000 U.S., and a naval base where Cruisers were among the ships docked. The Cruisers are missile launch pads for the U.S. navy with price tags of $1 billion each. Paradise, I guess, doesn't come cheap.
The cruise was the only planned event that day until the dinner at Casa Guadalajara, a Mexican restaurant in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Dinner was to be a chance to meet most of the people who were going to attend the wedding. For me, it would be the first time for me to meet a number of Kyra and Don's friends and his relatives. For example, I had only heard about some of Eric, Don's brother's, exploits, and had never met him until this. The couple-to-be went to dental school at Tufts University in Boston, where they met.
Dinner was a Mexican buffet, where margaritas and dacarites flowed as freely as the early morning rain that day for the 40 guests. Tomorrow was the wedding day, where about 60 guests would gather on the ocean side of the Marriott Hotel. With two days of clouds and scattered showers, I was concerned about the weather.
Unexpectedly, though, there wasn't a cloud in the sky on the wedding day. It was still cool in the shade but the sun was strong. It seemed like we were being smiled upon. Kyra wore a simple-styled strapless white satin dress, while Don wore a conservative black tuxedo. The ceremony lasted about 30 minutes. Kyra said that they had wanted the ceremony not to be over in five minutes since so many people travelled so many miles to get there. She didn't want them to feel ripped off. Included in the truth ceremony were a bit of their biographies as well as their hopes for the future, which I suspect will include a little a bit of luck and a lot of love. Maybe it will be more like what the California paradise turned out to be sunshine, mixed in with a few clouds and rain.
John A.H. Morris
We questioned in last week's Diary why there were no teachers on the South Grenville DHS 'Wall of Fame', so this week we are posing the question as to why there is no mention at South Grenville about the roots of secondary school education in this area. This would include old PHS, CHS, Spencerville and North Augusta continuation schools, as well as they Whey B. Lowe Normal School up on the other side of Charleville.
It doesn't hurt to remember our roots. The first high school education in Prescott and area was made available to area students in the Prescott Public School built in 1867, with one room set aside for secondary education classes. The first actual high school was opened in 1874 in the original town hall which is now the anchor of the Prescott Legion Building on Henry St.
The first high school in Cardinal was established in 1911. It was in a stable moved from the J.W. Leacy estate to the Kavanaugh property on First Street West and converted into a school. It served until 1921 when the Benson home, built in the early 1800s, was purchased by the village and turned over to the school board which remodelled it and used it as a continuation school before it became a high school. It was used until 1958 when the South Grenville DHS was opened to accommodate students from Augusta, Cardinal, Edwardsburgh and Prescott. The last principal at old CHS was Roy Switzer, who taught for many years at Cardinal before joining the SGDHS staff.
There is enough good school history available in the South Grenville district to make it a good class project and to warrant at least one panel in the showcase in the SGDHS foyer.
***
Those of use who spend the better part of our waking hours prowling the jungles of downtown Prescott in search of commercial prey, have been somewhat confused the past moon or two by the presence of what seems to be a new species stalking the asphalt jungle.
We were relieved when well-known and experienced street watchers such as Tom Doyle, Wilf Peters and Kevin Roach assured us these unusual sightings of uniformed, downtown denizens were no other than members of Rick's Rangers without their cavalry mounts.
Their appearance on the main street, after so many years of absence, we are told, is part of their re-training program should they find themselves in the ranks of the OPP in the near future with new Cowboy Bob-issue stetsons, but no horses.
However, there is a problem. None of these police officers, not even the veterans, know how to strut when they are on street patrol. Perhaps it is because the chief instructor comes from a military background (prior to his Texas Rangers days) that it seems that our men in dark blue patrol the main street at a one-twenty 'march' rather than a much slower and deliberate mid-sixty strut.
You cannot be an effective street cop unless you strut. And you cannot strut unless you have a mean-looking billie in your hand. The billie is used to slap (gently) the palm of the other hand ever fourth step, to tip your hat ever so slightly when meeting a slick chick or a councillor's mother, and to point menacingly at the kid who just squealed his tires at Centre and King.
From our ivory tower at the PJ we saw some pretty good strutters last century so we know of which we write. We'll pass by Dan Fox, Chesty Hall and George Fox from the first half of the last century because they had neither billie stick nor revolver, just cuffs.
The first real good strutter we remember on main street was Const. J. Frank Daley in the late 1940s. He was followed by Const. John Baldwin in the late 1950s and 60s. Big John had it all going for him, right from the slightly outward-splayed feet, to the rotund aptitude toward food that today translates into donuts.
Former Chief Mathew Hayes was among the best. He had that slow, measured, long stride , the sloping, powerful shoulders and forearms of Gordie Howe, and the slow, quizzical smile which adversaries could never figure out if it was one of ridicule or one of approval.
Of course, Chief Mathew had a good teacher when he joined the Prescott force back in 1957 as a first class constable. This was Chief Tom Conway who also helped mold another fine strutting patrol officer from the 1957 era, Const. Keith Cameron. Chief Tom also had some very creative interrogating moves that probably would not pass muster among today's druggies and vandals.
Being a cop in today's society is a much tougher job than it was 50 years ago, but the basics of good street strutting still remain an asset.
The old adage, "if the shoe fits, wear it", may not be the proper comment to make to someone who has diabetes.
Foot ailments are a common concern for people who have diabetes, and proper foot care is a must to properly maintain the disease, said Henry Arbeau, a certified pedorthic technician who operates Quality Footcare Management just east of Prescott.
November is Diabetes Month. The Tri-county Branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association, which takes in Lanark, Leeds and Grenville counties, has set a fundraising goal of $20,000. The Ontario division goal is $900,000. Approximately 1.5 million Canadians have diabetes.
Arbeau, who was diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes just this past summer, said he is now able to personally relate to his patients and understand their foot problems. Half or more of all non-traumatic limb amputations are due to diabetes.
"For years, diabetes was something I had to study and learn to work with my diabetic patients everyday. But now, it's something I have to deal with myself and I can relate much more closely to what they're talking about.
"It's quite a shock to the system. In that way I find it's a bonus. I find diabetes for me has been a wake-up call in life. It's time to get your act together and start taking care of your body."
Exercise, diet and rest all play an important part in maintaining diabetes, Arbeau said. "My lifestyle has changed 360 degrees. Everything is different now. My diet is totally changed."
Many diabetic foot problems arise from a combination of circumstances, Arbeau said, but two factors predominate: peripheral vascular disease which is a slowing of the circulation, or a hardening of the arteries, making cuts and blisters slower to heal; and peripheral neuropathy when sensation in the foot is lost. "You could physically step on a nail and not even know it," Arbeau said.
This lack of feeling can possibly result in skin ulcers, gangrene and amputation. Charcot joints, multiple fractures and deformities can occur.
Charcot arthropathy is a process where there is extensive bone and joint destruction in the foot and ankle, Arbeau said. Because these patients lack normal pain sensation, they may be continuing to use the foot unaware of the damage being done.
Severe complications can arise from diabetes, he said. Gangrene of the lower extremities occurs 53 times as frequently in male diabetics and 71 times as frequently in female diabetics as in non-diabetics. Fifty per cent of patients who had a unilateral amputation will develop a limb-threatening complication in the opposite extremity within two years of the amputation. The three-year survival rate for diabetics who have undergone amputation is only 50 per cent.
"I can't stress proper footwear enough," he said. Among other factors, shoes must not be too tight, and must be the proper length, Arbeau explained. Studies have shown that footwear and doctor-prescribed orthotics play an important part in diabetic foot care. By limiting potential ulcer complications, the chance of amputation is diminished.
A large part of Arbeau's clinic is fitting custom-made orthotics, a shoe insert to provide comfort, cushioning and stability for the lower extremities.
With the vulnerable diabetic foot, the proper orthotics also provide protection from the development of sores and pressure points. It is the development of sores and pressure points that could lead to limb amputation.
Diabetes is a life-long condition in which the body can not properly use and store the fuel (sugar) it takes in from the food eaten. Insulin is needed to help the body use sugar energy.
When a person has diabetes, the pancreas either does not produce or produces very little insulin, or cannot use the insulin that is produced.
If insulin is not available, the sugar from food stays in the blood stream, causing blood sugars to rise.
Arbeau estimates he spends between $250 and $300 per month on supplies to maintain his disease. Needles, insulin and test strips are some of the life-saving medical supplies he needs.
Diabetes is a chronic disease that has no known cause or cure, and is a leading cause of death by disease.
If left untreated or improperly managed, the high levels of blood sugar associated with diabetes can slowly damage both the small and large blood vessels in the body, resulting in a variety of complications.
Diabetes accounts for 25 per cent of all new cases of serious kidney disease. Heart disease is three to six times more common in people with diabetes, and it is a leading cause of adult blindness.
The Diabetes Association is located at 65 King Street East, Brockville. It can be contacted at 345-0992.
CARDINAL St. Paul's Anglican Church in Cardinal and St. James' in Crystal Rock is sponsoring the annual swim-a-thon this Saturday, Nov. 25.
Proceeds from the event will help pay for the heating costs of the two churches, said organizer Gary Linnen.
Children and adults are welcome to join in the fun of the third annual event at the Brockville YM/YWCA from 2 to 4 p.m.
A reception and chili supper will be held at St. Paul's church hall following the swim.
For pledge sheets and to register, contact Linnen at 657-3372, or Mary Kay Munnings at 657-3190.
CARDINAL St. John's United Church will be holding a bazaar and bake sale Saturday, Nov. 25. The event, sponsored by the United Church women, takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. A Christmas bazaar will also be held Saturday at the Roebuck Hall from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information on the Roebuck sale, contact 926-2890 or 925-1286.
CARDINAL The parent advisory council and the student council of Benson Public School will be holding a Christmas craft and bake sale at the school tomorrow, Thursday, from 2 to 7:30 p.m.
All proceeds from the bake table will go to the student council and their fundraising needs. Baked goods can be brought to the school any time on Nov. 23. A bin will be available for anyone to drop off non-perishable good to be given the Spirit of Giving campaign, being organized by South Grenville District High School.
The student council will be hosting a canteen and the parent advisory council will be having a silent auction during the sale. Local businesses have donated merchandise for the event, and some students and other community members are making gingerbread houses for the auction.
For more information, or to rent a table, contact Mandy Walsh at 657-3393 and leave a message.
SPENCERVILLE The mobile toy and resource library visits Spencerville at the United Church biweekly on Tuesdays.
Sponsored by Leeds and Grenville Child Care Resources, it is an economical way to enhance a child's play. By becoming a member of the toy and resource library, parents and care givers can access information and borrow toys, theme kits, children's audio tapes and adult resource books for a two-week period.
Toys are selected according to developmental stages, and encourage exploration, motor co-ordination, sensory stimulation, self confidence and self expression.
The annual membership fee is used to replace and enhance library materials. For more information contact Child Care Resources at 345-0350.
CARDINAL The Cardinal Playgroup meets each Thursday at St. John's United Church Hall from 9 to 11 a.m. This is an opportunity for parents to socialize, while youngsters meet friends and participate in a play-based learning environment. The children also enjoy crafts, snacks and songs. The playgroup is open to everyone. For more information, contact Heidi Rylands at 657-1666.
MORRISBURG Upper Canada Playhouse has an exciting treat for area residents. Five homes beautifully dressed for the festive season will be featured in the second "Homes for the Holidays" house tours, set for Saturday, Dec. 2.
The tours begin at 1 p.m. and finish with a Victorian Tea, to be held at the Morrisburg United Church. Maids in period dress will serve refreshments.
This is the final fundraiser of the year for the Playhouse. For more information or to reserve tickets, call the Playhouse at (613) 543-3713.
PRESCOTT Police agencies in the United States and Canada are alerting the public not to respond to unknown phone calls, e-mails or web pages which recommend that a return phone call be made to a number in the 809 area code.
There have been cases in which the return call can result in a bill of more than $24,000 in U.S. funds.
Numbers originating in 809 (the Bahamas) can be used as 'pay-per-call' numbers which are not subject to the same regulations as 900 numbers are in Canada and the United States.
The longer the caller stays on the line, the more he or she stands to be charged.
In an attempt to entice a response, callers are told a family member has been arrested, is injured or has died. In some cases a person is advised he or she has won a great prize and must call a certain number.
Sgt. Ralph Martin of the Prescott detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police said recently he is not aware of such calls being received in this area.
However, he did not rule out the possibility that this scam may be attempted.
"Anything that hits the U.S. usually hits here," Martin said.
Police recommend that anyone who receives a message or e-mail to call an unknown number with the 809 area code should either disregard the message or look into it before calling the number.
Once the call is made and a bill issued, the caller will have to take up the matter with the phone company.
Sgt. Martin reported that police have received calls recently about another phone scam which appears to be making the rounds once again.
A person claiming to be from Nigeria calls to say he has inherited a huge sum of money.
The caller asks for a sum of money to enable him to obtain the inheritance; the person who takes the call would, in return, be promised a large sum of money once the caller receives his inheritance.
In noting that the public should contact police when an apparent phone scam is attempted, Martin said many of those reports to the OPP are referred directly to the OPP's Phone Busters program which deals primarily with such occurrences.
Phone Busters can be reached at 1-888-495-8501.
BROCKVILLE - With just a little more than two weeks to go in its annual campaign, the United Way of Leeds and Grenville has reached 75 per cent of its fundraising goal.
Executive Director Judi Baril said the organization has raised $448,000 of its $600,000 objective. The slogan for this year's campaign is "United in the Spirit of Community."
The goal is a significant amount of money for a United Way of its size, Baril said. Normally, a typical United Way organization would handle between 18 and 20 agencies under its umbrella.
The community association represents 27 member agencies, including the Canadian Red Cross, Canadian Mental Health, CNIB, Interval House, VON Home Support, Prescott Youth for Life, Big Brothers and Sisters, Brockville YM-YWCA and St. John Ambulance.
The campaign raised $610,000 during the 1999 fundraising drive.
A goal of $600,000 "provides a significant challenge for us," Baril said, since the population of the two counties has not grown as much as the campaign objective. In 1989, the goal was $320,000.
Statistics show the agencies funded by the United Way are being used by the residents of Leeds and Grenville, Baril said.
In 1999, 23,000 people used United Way member agencies, which represents one in four area residents. Baril said figures indicate the usage of service is close to being one in three.
This Friday, Nov. 24, Kriska Transportation in Prescott will be hosting a chili lunch for its employees, with proceeds going the United Way.
The United Way mission is to promote the capacity of people to care for one another, Baril said. The entire community is involved by looking at its needs and establishing funding priorities and resources, then pooled by energizing the power of people. These resources are carefully distributed to programs and services that help people live better lives.
In a time of increasing need and reduced funding for social service organizations, United Way serves a critical role in supporting local charitable agencies, Baril said. It provides emergency shelters for abused women to delivering meals to seniors and supporting child-development and parenting-skills.
Baril explained the United Way is a fundraiser as well as a community builder. It is a community resource to the member agencies and to the community as a whole, and acts as a supportive network.
"Our vision is of a United Way dedicated to bringing people and resources together to build vibrant, caring communities," Baril said.
The Leeds and Grenville United Way office is located at 42 George Street, Brockville. The office can be reached by telephone at 342-8889, by fax at 342-8850, or by e-mail at unitedway@ripnet.com
CARDINAL - The Cardinal Public Library has made several new book purchases this fall. They are:
PRESCOTT The South Grenville Jr. 'B' Rangers had a tough night, actually two nights, in their match-ups over the weekend against cross-division teams from Alexandria and Morrisburg.
In Friday night's game against Alexandria, the Rangers fell 6-0 to Alexandria, which sit in second place in the St. Lawrence division of the EOJBHL with a record of 12-5-0.
The Rangers played Morrisburg the following night in a tough 10-0 loss against the third-place team in that St. Lawrence division with a record of 10-8-1.
The young Rangers have been struggling all season, and sit in last place in the Rideau division with a season record of 2-16-0.
In the two weekend games, the Rangers were short three starting players, Ryan Lawless and Assistant Captain Tyler Rasa both to injuries suffered last weekend and Assistant Lucas Spencer to a suspension. Spencer will be back in action for this. Lawless, who suffered a broken hand, is day-to-day said Trainer Bill Lawrence, and Rasa, suffering from a concussion, isn't expected back for another week.
Following the team's loss Saturday night, Lawrence said that his team is the kind of team that needs to have all the players work hard for the whole game to win.
Lawrence said that the team was still in the game until Morrisburg scored a short-handed goal, giving them the 3-0 lead. He said in both weekend games they played quick teams that capitalize on their opportunities, something the Rangers haven't been able to do all season. Lawrence said his affiliate players have stepped up and that crowd support has been good. The Rangers visit Char-Lan to play the rebels on Saturday, Nov. 25. On Sunday, Nov. 26, the Rangers face off against Winchester at the Cardinal Community Centre.
The Purcell Insurance Atom 'C' Rangers travelled to Long Sault to play the South Stormont Selects on Nov. 11.
The Rangers led 3-2 into the third period but allowed the host club to tie it up 3-3 in the final minutes.
The Rangers then hosted the North Dundas Demons on Nov.15. Although the Rangers dominated the play, they were unable to capitalize on their many opportunities.
The Demons went away with a 2-1 victory.
On Nov. 19, the Rangers visited the Kemptville Panthers and skated to a 2-1 win in a hard fought contest.
Kurtis Merkley was solid in net.
The goals and assists for the three-games series were recorded by Mark
Wynands with two goals and one assist; Chris Bryden with one goal and one assist; Adam Kelly, Chris Noonan and Dylan Hayes each with one goal; and Adam Patrick and Kyle Lavery each with one assist.
PEMBROKE The South Grenville Peewee 'C' Rangers travelled to the Silver Stick tournament in Pembroke this past weekend.
First, the Rangers faced a strong Stirling Blues team. Despite a Rangers' 2-0 lead, the Blues came back to win 5-2.
The Rangers' goals were scored by Ryan Landon, assisted by Matthew Hayes and Michael Lawrence.
Hayes also scored an unassisted goal. Corie Toye was in net for the Rangers.
The Rangers faced the Deep River Knights in their next game. The Rangers fell 6-1 to the Knights. Landon scored the lone Rangers' goal. Kevin Beach played in net.
In the Rangers final game, they defeated the North Frontenac Flyers 2-1. Rangers' Matt Deeks and Jennifer Lamoureux both scored unassisted goals. Corie Toye played in net.
Three Rangers were selected for awards. Lamoureux earned the Most Dedicated Player award. Hayes earned the Most Improved Player award for his strong work ethic and good listening skills, while Michael Lawrence won the award for the Most Sportsmanlike player award.
Rangers' Coach Dan Joudoin said the players made their parents proud with their effort at the tournament.
Joudoin said the team is doing well this year and is really starting to gel.
"They're a good team," Joudoin said. "They play hard. There are no superstars on the team, but the team has really good chemistry."
League action resumes Tuesday, Nov. 28 when the Rangers travel to Morrisburg to face the Lions.
Then on Thursday, Nov. 30 the Rangers will face Brockville Warriors, with the game starting at 6:30 p.m.
The Rangers will be hosting a peewee tournament at the Leo Boivin Community Centre on Saturday, Dec. 2.
SPENCERVILLE The South Grenville Peewee 'B' Rangers beat the Westport team in a close game at the Edwardsburgh Community Centre Friday night.
The first period closed with neither team on the scoreboard. Rangers' Josh Rupert opened up the scoring in the second period for his team.
Leading into the third period, Eric Selleck scored the Rangers' second goal.
Westport scored their loan goal with 2:59 left in the game. The final score was 2-1 for the Rangers.
Assists for the Rangers came from Selleck and Kurtis Summers. The evenly matched game saw the Rangers' goalie Luke Beckstead stop 23 of 24 shots. The Rangers had 29 shots on net.
The South Grenville had faced Westport twice previously this season, but weren't able to come away with a win. In the first match up, the Rangers lost by three. In the second game, the Rangers only lost 6-5 to Westport. The Rangers play Athens Wednesday night in Athens in league play. Game time is 7 p.m.
The South Grenville Rangers will be hosting an eight-team peewee 'B' tournament on Saturday, Nov. 25 in Prescott at the Leo Boivin Community Centre. Action begins Saturday morning when the Rangers face off against the Brockville peewee team at 7:30 a.m. The 'A' final will be at 4:30 p.m., and the 'B' final will be at 3:30 p.m.
PRESCOTT A pair of South Grenville District High School students are going places with their running successes.
Susan Knights and Mandy Wallace placed near the top of their respective divisions at a recent provincial competition and will be competing this weekend at the national level.
Although English public high school teachers have withdrawn their participation in extra-curricular activities, the 16-year-old runners have continued to train and compete. Bob Tucker, who retired from teaching last year but remains on the local scene as a volunteer coach, organized a qualifying meet for students in Eastern Ontario.
Following the success of that event, Wallace and Knights travelled to Brampton Nov. 4 to compete in the Ontario high school track championships.
Wallace competed in the junior girls' 4000-m event and placed eighth in a field of 248.
Knights competed in the senior girls' 5000-m race and placed 24th in a field of 239.
Although they were pleased with the results, Wallace and Knights believe they may have been able to do better at the provincial championships if they had known about it sooner and had been able to be better prepared for the competition.
The two local runners will be competing at the national level this weekend in Toronto. Wallace and Knights are members of an under-19 team of female runners representing the Brockville Legion Harriers club.
The five-member team placed third in the 4000-m event at the provincial club championships and advanced to the national club finals.
"Mandy and Susan are running very well," Tucker said.
The other three members of the club team are students at Thousand Islands Secondary School.
Knights said it is fun to travel throughout the province and compete at events; however, she wishes more high school runners would come out to the events.
* A one-day Peewee 'B' tournament will be held Saturday, Nov. 25 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre in Prescott. The tournament is scheduled to run from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
* A one-day Peewee 'C' tournament will be held Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre in Prescott. The tournament is scheduled to run from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
* An Atom 'B' tournament will be held Sunday, Dec. 3 at the Cardinal Community Centre. This tournament is also scheduled to run from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
CANTON Four local women hockey players on two different university teams will be facing off on St. Lawrence University in a match-up on Dec. 2. That's when Brown University faces St. Lawrence University in a game that starts at 2 p.m. at St. Lawrence University, and it will be a reunion of sorts for area hockey players. Brown University has two Prescott natives Mandy McCurdy and Meredith Ostrander on the team, while St. Lawrence University has a Prescott native Chera Marshall and Spencerville native Trisha Powers on its hockey team.