Ceremony marks bond between U.S., Canada shared at ceremony
Friendship will continue to grow stronger, speakers say
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."
Town seeks expressions of interest for municipal
building property
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.
Four stores hit by break-ins
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.
THIS WEEK
Public invited to view township building
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 library hosts open house Saturday
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.
Afternoon concert notes church anniversary
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.
Parade will follow
stage show at Light Up the Night event
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.
Tele-health projects
receive federal funding
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."
Town awaits dump
clean-up details
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.
Sewer work to precede
road construction
Churchill Road project gets green light; surface repairs
will not begin this fall
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.
Municipal water service
transition begins
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.
Municipalities receive
funding from LCBO
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.
Grade 10 testing postponed
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.
Outstanding volunteer
service recognized
Ken McKittrick receives award from Augusta Library
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."
Nominations open for patient council positions
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.
MERC ensures
recreation activities continue
MAITLAND NEWS - Jane Fullarton
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.
Reserve now for Oct. 27 chicken dinner
WALKER HOUSE NEWS
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.
Winner of Giant draw will have big choice
to make
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.
Halloween dance set
for Roebuck
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.
SCHOOL SCENE
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.
Prescott tower
is a strategic link
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.
OPP NEWS
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.
Nothing taken during break-in, according to police
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.
Christmas cards
being collected for military staff serving overseas
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.
Volunteers recognized for effort to preserve
Spencerville Mill
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.
United Empire Loyalists to hold charter meeting
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.
Final tax billing date changed
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.
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