Remembering the day the world changed
Images of Sept. 11 attacks continue to have impact
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
SOUTH GRENVILLE The first anniversary of the Sept. 11
terrorist attacks on the United States brings with it a range
of emotions as residents of the Prescott area reflect on a bloody
Tuesday they will never forget.
The hijacking of four commercial aircraft that crashed into
the World Trade Center, Pentagon and a field in Pennsylvania
remains on the minds of many Canadians who are still coming to
grips with the past as they proceed into a future made more uncertain.
Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn proclaimed Sept. 11, 2002 as "Always
Remember 9-11 Day." Prescott residents are encouraged to
observe a moment of silence this morning at 8:46 and again at
10:29.
The proclamation reads, "We extend our deepest condolences
to the innocent victims of these unprovoked actions by terrorists,
as well as to their families and their friends... We salute the
heroism of all public safety and rescue workers, volunteers,
local officials, and those who responded to these tragic events
with courage, selfless compassion, determination and skill."
Prescott Fire Chief Bill Lawrence says to this day he has
difficulty watching footage from the World Trade Center where
more than 300 New York City firefighters, police officers and
other emergency response personnel lost their lives a year ago.
Thinking of those firefighters running into a building at a time
when most people would be trying to flee is something to which
firefighters in small towns and big cities can relate, according
to the chief.
"There's a bond there that no one can touch and no one
can explain," Lawrence said.
Although the anniversary has placed a greater emphasis on
the events of Sept. 11, Lawrence says the feelings triggered
by the loss of life are always there. He also expects there will
be other acts of terrorism.
"We seem to allow more freedom than they (the terrorists)
deserve," he remarked.
Jennifer Wyman thought she would get called in to work at
the hospital in Ogdensburg after the Sept. 11 attacks. Wyman,
a nurse who lives in Prescott, recalls being glued to the television
in the hours and days that followed the collapse of the World
Trade Center towers.
"I cried, sobbed and threw up a couple of times,"
she says.
Wyman had been in Manhattan two weeks before the attacks;
to this day, she thinks about that and how she may have been
there Sept. 11 if her trip plans had been different.
In the weeks following the attacks, Wyman decided to make
professional and personal changes in her life. She leaped at
the chance to help organize a food bank in the Prescott area
as a way of "putting your money where your mouth is.
"You've got to do what makes you happy," says Wyman,
who adds "things could change at any time."
Pamela Goodberry was also one of millions of Canadians who
was moved by coverage of the Sept. 11 attacks. On Sept. 12 of
last year after watching CNN's early-morning coverage of the
previous day's events, the Prescott-area singer/songwriter was
inspired to write "We Will Stand For Freedom," a global
anthem that emphasizes the need to cherish freedom and help those
who stand for it. Goodberry, who founded the We Will Stand For
Freedom Foundation in honour of the victims of Sept. 11, will
perform the song and one other at a community candlelight vigil
being held tonight at Library Park in Ogdensburg.
The anthem is part of a nine-song CD Goodberry has released;
proceeds are going to the foundation.
"This is how Sept. 11 affected me," says Goodberry,
who notes one of her goals is to "...counter the hideous,
cancerous growth of hatred."
Spencerville Fair continues to show pride
of agricultural community
147th edition of annual fair takes place this weekend
SPENCERVILLE The best little class "A" fair
in Eastern Ontario is back for another year of fun and excitement.
The 147th edition of the Spencerville Fair gets under way
Thursday night. With the countless exhibits, activities and special
events as well as the midway, there is no shortage of things
to keep visitors busy and entertained until the fair closes late
Sunday afternoon.
The annual fair will once again present a wide range of activities
designed to showcase the local agricultural community. From horse
and livestock shows and competitions to vegetable judging and
the mammoth pumpkin weigh-in, there will be no shortage of things
for visitors to see as they make their way around the fair grounds.
"We are hoping again this year the Lord above us is going
to give us good weather," said Harold Malcomson, president
of the Spencerville Agricultural Society.
With 60 directors and at least an additional 60 volunteers,
plus sponsors and the many exhibitors who will display their
wares at the annual event, the fair continues to be a community
effort. "It's tradition," Malcomson said. "It's
your homestead. You feel proud."
Admission to the fair grounds is free opening night Thursday;
the midway will be open and the annual holstein show starts at
6:30 pm.
The official opening of the fair is set for Saturday at 1:30
pm, but there will be plenty to see and do prior to that.
The Spencerville Fair Ambassador and the Little Sir and Little
Miss will be crowned Friday night at the Edwardsburgh Community
Centre. The Searson's will present their mix of Cape Breton and
Ottawa Valley Celtic music and stepdancing at the arena as part
of pageant night.
Eddy & the Stingrays will perform at the entertainment
tent Friday night, with the group Ambush appearing under the
big top Saturday night.
The Duke of Magic will be on hand Friday morning and evening
to entertain children and adults. Two showings of the Big Joe
Mufferaw Lumberjack Show will take place Saturday afternoon.
The big Spencerville Fair parade will make its way through
the streets of the community Saturday morning.
Other highlights include the Saturday night horse show, a
teen dance Saturday night at the community centre and the demolition
derby Sunday afternoon at the grandstand.
An outdoor church service will be conducted Sunday at 11 am
at the Spencerville Mill. The service will be held inside in
the event of rain; all are invited to attend. For more information
about the service, call Pastor Alan Litchfield at 658-2322.
For more details, see the Spencerville Fair schedule in this
week's Journal.
Memorial services planned in several communities
SOUTH GRENVILLE Bells will ring this morning at a number
of churches in the Prescott area in honour of those who lost
their lives last Sept. 11 in the terrorist attacks on the United
States.
The fire hall in Maitland will be the site of a memorial service
beginning at 10:45 am. The public is invited to attend the service
being hosted by the Augusta Fire Department.
A number of representatives from municipalities and fire departments
in South Grenville will attend a memorial service being held
this morning in front of city hall on King Street in Brockville.
Emergency vehicle sirens will be sounded as part of the 10 am
service.
At least one church in the area, Seaway Christian on Churchill
Road in Prescott will host a memorial service this evening.
The service at Seaway starts at 7 pm; all are welcome to attend.
For more information, call 925-5840.
A community candlelight vigil is being held this evening in
Ogdensburg. The service begins at 7 pm at Library Park on Washington
Street. There are plans for a torch lit from the eternal flame
burning at "ground zero" in New York City to be escorted
to the park. Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn will be among civic leaders
who will take part in the ceremony. For more information on the
Ogdensburg vigil, call (315) 393-1130.
Prescott Blossoms receives
support for changes to park
Lack of communication leads to public meeting to address
concerns about proposal
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
PRESCOTT What we had here was a failure to communicate.
That is one way to describe the situation involving Prescott
Blossoms and proposed changes to the Churchill Road park.
Town council gave the community beautification project the
green light Monday night to proceed with its work. This came
less than one week after council had directed the project to
halt its work at the park in light of a number of complaints
about the boulders and hills placed in the park during the previous
week.
Prescott Blossoms, a federally-funded initiative that will
see a major expansion of Prescott's Heritage River Trail at Fort
Wellington as well as improvements downtown and in municipal
park areas, held a public meeting in Churchill park last Saturday
morning to explain the proposed changes and address concerns.
More than 80 people attended the meeting; some spoke out against
the plan, citing safety concerns about the large boulders and
the loss of open space in the park. However, others offered support
for the concept and the effort to improve the park.
With about 50 people signing a "statement of support"
for the proposal, Prescott Blossoms offered a revised plan to
town council at its committee meeting Monday; about 30 people
attended.
Mike Laking, co-coordinator of the project, apologized to
council on behalf of Prescott Blossoms for not consulting with
the community prior to proceeding with the proposal. "We
will not make this mistake twice," he said.
Laking noted he believes the problem was one of a lack of
communication and not opposition to the park plans. Council had
discussed the park situation during a closed-door session that
followed the public portion of the Sept. 4 meeting. A special
meeting of council had then been called for last Thursday evening
to discuss the park issue, but a decision was made to postpone
the matter until the following Monday.
Project supervisor Astrid Strader outlined the process that
led to the addition of boulders and berms to the Churchill Road
park. She explained Prescott Blossoms analyzed what it could
do to make public parks better; the Churchill park offers an
opportunity for a "showpiece" that would still allow
for use of the play structure and open areas.
The two berms (hilly areas) which include boulders and a variety
of plants would take up about 315 square yards of the 7,500-square-yard
park, it was noted at the meeting Monday. In noting the work
had yet to be completed in the park, Strader noted the addition
of a few green plants at the Saturday morning public meeting
shows how much of a positive effect the additions will have to
the park.
The group also recognizes the park is often used by people
crossing from one side to the other, something that will continue
under the Blossoms proposal.
"It's not taking away from any of the play areas,"
Laking said.
He also noted three berms had been planned; one was removed
in response to concerns from the public. Another revision involves
removing the top rocks of an inukshuk, a native tradition used
to mark that travellers had been at that location. Laking noted
there were safety concerns about the boulders. No boulder than
can be moved by two people will remain in the park, he said.
At the end of the presentation, most members of council indicated
support for the plan. Councillor Garry Dewar noted council's
earlier position was based on concerns from residents and not
knowing what was being done in the park.
Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead, the lone member of town council
to attend the Saturday meeting in the park, indicated Monday
most of her concerns had been addressed. Beckstead used to live
across from the park for many years.
A resident of Mackenzie Road who has two young children and
who acknowledged she had been outspoken about her concerns last
week also told council her objections had been addressed.
Beginning in early August, more than 10 young adults have
been working six-month terms with Prescott Blossoms as part of
a federal program aimed at offering participants job skills and
experience. Mayor Robert Lawn said their work around the community
is "very good" and being noticed.
Laking said plans are in the works for other municipal park
areas. The Blossoms team will conduct public meetings to let
local residents know what is being planned and give them a chance
for input.
In a letter Laking read to council Monday night, Leeds-Grenville
MP Joe Jordan notes the support of himself and the federal government
and encourages the town and Prescott Blossoms "...to work
out its differences in order to ensure this program achieves
the objectives it set out to accomplish."
THIS WEEK
Regional jobless rate decreases in August
KINGSTON The regional unemployment rate took a tumble
in August, according to figures released Friday by Human Resources
Development Canada (HRDC).
The jobless rate for the region that includes South Grenville
was 6.7 per cent last month, down from 7.7 per cent in July.
There were notable employment increases in construction, health
and social service sectors, according to an HRDC news release.
The regional unemployment rate in August 2001 was 5.7 per
cent.
Although the jobless rate decreased, the number of employment
insurance (EI) claimants at the Prescott HRDC office increased
last month. There were 938 active claims at the end of August
compared to 875 at the end of July. The Kingston-Pembroke area
reported an average EI claim increase of 6.7 per cent.
HRDC notes unemployment rates are not determined through assessment
of EI claimant data.
New grocery store holds job fair Saturday
PRESCOTT The new Your Independent Grocer store being
built in Prescott will host a job fair this Saturday, Sept. 14
from 9 am to 3 pm at the Prescott Legion on Henry Street.
Full- and part-time staff are being hired for the new store
under construction just south of Highway 401 and east of Edward
Street. The new Canadian Tire store is being built nearby.
Interview times will depend on the number of applicants who
attend the job fair, according to an advertisement appearing
in this week's edition of The Journal.
The Your Independent Grocer store will reportedly replace
the existing Valu-mart store.
Smoke from Fort Drum fires makes way to area
PRESCOTT Fires burning at Fort Drum near Watertown,
New York are the cause of much of the smoke being reported in
the Prescott area, according to Fire Chief Bill Lawrence.
The town's fire department has fielded numerous calls in the
past couple of weeks from people saying they could smell smoke.
A limited amount of fire suppression measures have been taken
at the military training range on which the fires have been burning.
The fire department appreciates the calls it has received
but wants the public to be aware of the situation in New York,
the chief noted.
Anyone who smells smoke is asked to check out the area and
look for a source of the smoke before calling his or her local
fire department.
Curves for Women hoping to make all the right moves
PRESCOTT - The ladies of the Prescott area have a new place
to work out.
Curves for Women, located on Churchill Road, opened its doors
Aug. 19 providing fitness for women by hydraulic training without
weights.
"It's very intense training," says Prescott Curves
for Women co-owner Karen Blackburn. "It's the hardest 30
minutes of their day, but it's also the most fun 30 minutes."
The program is focused around circuit training where for 30
minutes, 30 seconds is spent on each machine before rotating
to the next piece of equipment.
"It allows for women to just drop in and do the workout
whenever they have 30 minutes," explained Blackburn. "All
they have to do is have two meetings with us to do a figure analysis,
goal setting and get equipment training."
Curves also features a menu plan and weight loss program which
is designed around exercise. By protecting lean muscle to lose
body fat it actually increases metabolism.
Blackburn says the response to the facilities and programs
has been better than expected. "We knew Prescott would be
a good place for a Curves, because there is nothing like this
here, but the response has been just tremendous."
Karen and her husband Doug will be opening a second franchise
in Kemptville in November.
The Curves for Women chain began in Waco, Texas, and now has
more than over 2,500 locations across North America, Spain, Australia,
France and England.
"While living in Sherwood Park, Curves is what saved
my mother's life," says Blackburn. "She had a heart
attack and to get into shape I joined a Curves with her.
"Her cardiologist told her to keep up what she had been
doing as her health had improved so much.
"I just want to put back in what I got out. If I could
save one woman's life by helping her get in shape, then it's
all worthwhile."
Terry Fox Run to be held this Sunday in Prescott
Waterfront is site of annual cancer research fundraiser
PRESCOTT The organizer of the Prescott and district
Terry Fox Run is hoping for some last-minute support.
Sharon Spychi said the initial response to this year's event,
to be held Sunday afternoon on Prescott's waterfront, has been
disappointing. But she added it is not too late to get involved.
For more than 20 years, the Terry Fox Run has raised money
for cancer research. Named in honour of the young one-legged
runner whose Marathon of Hope in 1980 captured the hearts of
most Canadians, the annual event has raised hundreds of millions
of dollars.
The local Terry Fox Run will be based this year at the amphitheatre
located at Sandra S. Lawn Harbour. Registration will be from
noon to 2 pm; the official start of the event is 1 pm. The route
includes Prescott's Heritage River Trail and extends west along
King Street to Centennial Park. The run had been held for several
years just north of Prescott on County Road 18 and Second Concession.
Spychi said pledge sheets are available at a number of locations
in and around Prescott. In addition to seeking volunteers to
work at the run site this Sunday, Spychi is also seeking a cancer
survivor who is willing to serve as a member of "Terry's
Team."
Although she had been hoping for more support from volunteers
and sponsors, Spychi is cautiously optimistic people will come
forward and help make this year's event a success.
"People tend to put things off until the last minute,"
Spychi said.
For more information or to volunteer for the Terry Fox Run,
call 925-5700.
It is estimated 137,000 new cases of cancer and 66,200 deaths
from cancer will occur in Canada in 2002.
Health unit, union
reach deal
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE A tentative agreement between the
Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit and the union
representing public health inspectors, RPNs, dental assistants,
caretakers and clerical staff has been reached.
The tentative deal involving CUPE Local 1559 was signed last
Wednesday. One week earlier, union members voted 75 per cent
in favour of strike action. A ratification vote will be held
Sept. 17.
The union's existing collective agreement expired March 31.
Booklet illustrates
effects of fetal alcohol syndrome
Mixing booze and pregnancy can have devastating effects
BROCKVILLE - The dangers of mixing alcohol and pregnancy are
outlined in a new publication.
A 12-page comic book-style educational booklet entitled Fae,
the Million Dollar Baby, was unveiled Friday by a committee of
Upper Canada District School Board staff and community representatives.
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a cluster of abnormalities
including stunted growth and cognitive problems. "FAS occurs
when the fetus is literally bathed in alcohol in the womb as
its brain and organs develop," a school board release states.
"Since the fetus is unable to process and excrete alcohol,
it remains inebriated for a longer time than its mother."
People with FAS are at higher risk of having learning disabilities,
becoming juvenile delinquents, drug addicts or alcoholics, and
committing property crimes or vandalism, according to the Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit. Some researchers estimate
as many as one person in 100 is affected by a fetal alcohol disorder.
The estimated cost to taxpayers for treatment of an individual
who has FAS is more than $2 million.
The story features a girl named Fae whose mother chose to
consume alcohol during her pregnancy. Readers will come to realize
Fae's troubles are the direct result of her mother's choice as
a young woman.
The publication was written by special education resource
teacher Susan Sheridan and illustrated by David Sheridan, a visual
arts teacher at Thousand Islands Secondary School. "Through
our research we found considerable information regarding how
to work with children diagnosed with FAS, but it was difficult
to locate awareness and prevention information aimed specifically
at young people," Shannon notes.
The initial 7,500 copies printed were paid for by promotional
ads in the booklet as well as by a grant from Ontario's Early
Years Challenge Fund. Copies are being provided to the health
unit, police services, Early Years centres and the Youth and
Wellness Centre.
For more information about FAS, call the health unit at 1-800-660-5853.
Sept. 9 is international fetal alcohol syndrome awareness
day.
Support kidney foundation by throwing bosses
in jail
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE Civic leaders and company bosses
will soon be spending time behind bars while supporting the Eastern
Ontario branch of the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
The second annual Round-up for Research will take place Sept.
24 and 25 at 1000 Islands Mall in Brockville. A roving posse
of sheriffs and their deputies will "arrest" bosses
and bring them before a judge who will find the accused guilty
of charges put forward by his or her colleagues at work.
The jailed bosses spend an hour in the mock cell calling colleagues
and friends in an effort to raise bail set by the judge.
Bail money will be used by the kidney foundation to support
medical research, provide services for kidney patients in Eastern
Ontario and fund organ donation awareness programs.
The fundraising event is open to the entire region, including
South Grenville.
For more information, call event co-ordinator Trish McNamara
at 345-5688.
Orchestra to perform
at GCC
MAITLAND The highly-acclaimed Orchestra of Northern
New York will perform in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd at Grenville
Christian College (GCC) Sunday, Sept. 29 at 7:30 pm.
The orchestra consists of more than 60 professional musicians
from Northern New York, Ottawa, Montreal, New York City and New
England, including a select group of musicians from the Crane
School of Music at SUNY Potsdam. It is the only professional
symphony orchestra based in the North Country.
"This is yet again a real coup for Grenville Christian
College to offer this performance which will feature some of
the region's most accomplished artists," GCC Headmaster
Dave Dargie stated in a news release.
A sold-out performance by Cambridge University's Collegium
Regale took place at GCC in July.
Tickets for the Orchestra of Northern New York performance
are available by calling GCC at 345-5521.
Provincial Liberal
leader to attend party fundraiser
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE Ontario Liberal leader Dalton McGuinty
will appear at the fall fundraising dinner of the provincial
Leeds-Grenville Liberal riding association.
The dinner will take place Friday, Sept. 20 at 6 pm at the
Brockville Yacht Club. Entertainment will be provided by Brockville's
Bistro Trio.
For ticket information, call Allan Gillis at 925-4428, Stephen
Mazurek at 342-0935 or Duncan Fraser at 342-7862.
Tax receipts will be issued.
Empties help fund diabetes research
PRESCOTT The 11th annual "Case for a Cure"
event will take place Saturday, Sept. 21 from 10 am to 4 pm at
the Beer Store in Prescott.
Lions Club members will be on hand to collect empty beer bottles
for the Tri-County Branch of the Canadian Diabetes Association.
Proceeds will be used to fund diabetes research.
South Grenville Environmental Centre will rise from the ashes
Reward being offered in arson case; Kiwanis Club gives
big boost to rebuilding effort
By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor
DOMVILLE - The rebuilding process has begun at the South Grenville
Environmental Centre.
The outdoor education centre located on Barton Road north
of Prescott was destroyed by fire in late July. The partners
that built the facility five years ago are now working together
to reconstruct what was lost in the blaze.
The Grenville Land Stewardship Council and South Grenville
District High School led the way in creating the centre that
enables members of the community to see first-hand environmental
demonstration areas.
Jack Henry, co-ordinator of the stewardship council, told
The Journal detailed plans for the new structure have
yet to be finalized. He noted it may be scaled down and end up
being more of a shelter than a building.
Debris at the burned-out centre will be cleared this month,
according to Henry. As was the case when the centre was built,
high school students will provide support at the site; Ontario
Works will also be involved.
An investigation determined the fire was deliberately set.
A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered by the council and
staff at the high school for information leading to the arrest
and conviction of those responsible for the fire.
Henry said he has "a lot of sympathy calls" since
the fire occurred. The high school has reiterated its "strong
commitment" to the centre, he added.
The Kiwanis Club of Prescott has also offered its continuing
support for the centre. Club members decided Monday night to
donate $5,000 to the rebuilding effort.
Although the building is gone, the property as a whole continues
to offer insight into a variety of subjects. About 20 wildlife
structures such as chickadee bird houses and osprey nests are
waiting to be installed. Planned programs for schools will be
presented this year when possible.
Although an emphasis has been placed on students, the education
centre was designed for people of all ages to enjoy.
"It was to provide an example of the lifestyle we can
lead to show care and respect for each other and our environment,"
a recent stewardship council release stated.
At the time of the fire, it was anticipated the building would
be powered by a solar energy system funded by a contribution
from Shell Canada's environmental fund. Henry said the solar
panels had already been purchased; however, the company has since
indicated the $4,000 contribution can be reassigned and used
to help rebuild the structure.
Numerous companies and individuals contributed materials for
construction of the original building. Additional offers of support
from the community are now being sought as rebuilding plans develop.
For more information, contact Jack Henry at the stewardship council
(342-8528) or Brenda Ramsay or Colin Campbell at the high school
(925-2855).
Conservation officials declare drought in
South Nation River watershed
SOUTH GRENVILLE People who live or work in portions
of Augusta and Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal townships are being urged
to conserve water now that a Level 2 drought has been declared
in the South Nation River watershed.
The absence of rain the past two months and stream flows which
have been well below normal prompted South Nation Conservation
to declare a drought last Friday. A Level 2 drought was also
declared in the middle of last August due to persistent dry conditions.
"The situation is reminiscent of last year," stated
Richard Pilon, water resources engineer with the conservation
authority. "Some streams are drying right up and some residents
are reporting wells running dry."
Signs advising residents of the drought situation are being
erected at main entrances to the watershed
Residential, commercial and industrial sectors are expected
to cut back on all non-essential water use while drought conditions
persist.
Pilon also noted in a news release municipalities will be
asked to enforce water restriction bylaws; the environment ministry
will also be asked to implement reduced amounts for those who
hold water-taking permits.
Anyone who has a dry well or other water shortage problems
is being encouraged to report the situation to the conservation
authority at 1-877-984-2948.
Food bank offers support to 50 people during
opening week of operations
PRESCOTT A new community resource is now available to
residents of South Grenville.
The Food For All Food Bank opened for the first time last
Tuesday morning.
Jennifer Wyman, who oversees volunteers and food distribution
at the facility, estimated about 50 people used the services
of the food bank in its first week of operation.
The food bank serves residents of Augusta, Prescott and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.
Located at 136 Henry St. across from the Prescott Legion, Food
For All is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 am
to 2 pm.
The food depot was very busy last Tuesday and Wednesday, according
to Wyman. About half of the clients who made use of the facility
last week had pre-registered. Many clients were appreciative
of the items they received, Wyman said. Although a few minor
problems arose, Wyman viewed opening week as a success.
"It was important to make them feel comfortable,"
she added. "For the most part, I thing everything went well."
Among the items Wyman said are in need at the food bank are
baby food and personal hygiene items such as toothpaste, soap
and deodorant. Any donations of non-perishable food items are
always welcome. The food bank has a freezer but is still in need
of a refrigerator.
Although the food bank has already opened, an official ribbon
cutting will take place late next week.
The food bank is a separate entity not directly affiliated
with any specific group or church. The organization has applied
for incorporation and is seeking charitable status. Food For
All is run by a volunteer board of directors.
Food bank clients are permitted one visit per month.
Diabetes session will
focus on blood pressure control
BROCKVILLE - The importance of controlling blood pressure
will be discussed at the next diabetes information session to
be held Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 7 pm at St. John Bosco Centre, 175
Windsor Dr.
The guest speaker will be Dr. Dan Brouillard, a specialist
in internal medicine at the Kingston Heart Clinic. For people
who have diabetes, controlling blood pressure is as important
as controlling blood sugar levels.
The information session is open to the public; admission is
free.
For more information, contact the Tri-County Branch of the
Canadian Diabetes Association at 345-0992.
Four vie for 2002 Spencerville Fair Ambassador crown
Annual pageant to be held Friday night in arena
SPENCERVILLE The Spencerville Fair Ambassador Pageant
tradition continues this Friday evening, with four young women
competing for the crown.
A highlight of the fair, the pageant gets underway at the
Edwardsburgh Community Centre at 7 pm, along with the Little
Sir and Little Miss pageant.
The traditional fair queen competition was renamed last year
to mark the eligibility of male entrants, although no men registered
to compete this year. Contestants will be interviewed by a panel
of three judges before going on stage to introduce themselves
and answer an impromptu question. Competitors will be judged
on their interview, community involvement, question response,
poise and personality.
The successful young lady will be eager and willing to learn
about her community and share her enthusiasm for the fair with
others. The winner will represent the Spencerville Agricultural
Society for the duration of the fair and assist at other board
functions throughout the year. The ambassador also attends the
Ontario Agricultural Society convention in February and will
compete in the Ambassador of the Fairs competition at the Canadian
National Exhibition next August.
The competitors are:
Kelly Chapeskie is 17 and in OAC at South Grenville
District High School. The daughter of Linda and David Chapeskie
of RR 4 Spencerville, Kelly enjoys dancing and playing the piano
in her free time. She also appreciates math, science, reading
and other academic activities, and plans to attend university
in a health science program to specialize as a doctor in pediatrics.
Kelly has been a language development instructor to a hearing
impaired child, and has volunteered with a seniors' group, at
Brockville General Hospital, the local library and at the Spencerville
Fair.
She is an assistant teacher of ballet and dance, and has been
involved with several 4-H clubs. At school, Kelly is an active
member of Ontario Students Against Impaired Driving, the Spirit
of Giving campaign, the student council and Energizers. Kelly
is employed at the Spencerville arena in the canteen.
The Spencerville Mill Foundation has sponsored Kelly in the
competition.
Brooke Hunter, 18, is the daughter of John and Marlene
Hunter of RR 4 Spencerville, and is currently attending Carleton
University for a bachelor of journalism degree with combined
honours in philosophy. She is a graduate of South Grenville District
High School.
Brooke's future ambition is to work as an investigative journalist
for several years before entering politics and becoming prime
minister of Canada.
She enjoys acting and singing, rugby, horseback riding, travelling
and languages. Brooke was editor of her high school newspaper
and a student council member, and is a member of a theatre group.
Her community involvement has included 4-H groups, the Spencerville
and District Winter Carnival committee, Canadian American Veterans
Reunion Association, Octagon Club, Shriners, Spirit of Giving,
Ontario Students Against Drunk Driving, fundraising for cystic
fibrosis and Heart and Stroke.
Brooke is employed with the Brockvile and District Chamber
of Commerce Tourism office as a tourism ambassador for the Leeds
and Grenville area.
She is sponsored by Nation Masonic Lodge Branch 556.
Lindsey Liezert, who will soon turn 18, is completing
her OAC year at South Grenville District High School and is on
the honour roll. She is the daughter of Dennis and Donna Liezert
of RR 4 Spencerville, and plans to attend university and pursue
a career in dentistry.
Lindsey works part time at Prescott valu-mart. She is also
a member of the Spencerville and District Winter Festival committee,
the Spencerville Stars Octagon Club, the school yearbook committee,
Energizers, Spirit of Giving, and rugby and soccer teams. She
enjoys baseball in the summer, and has been involved with Brownies
and Guides in Spencerville.
Her favourite activities are having fun with friends, meeting
new people, getting involved, travelling and shopping.
Lindsey has been sponsored by the Spencerville and District
Optimist Club.
Lisa Weststrate of RR 4 Spencerville is an honours
OAC student at South Grenville District High School. She is the
daughter of Sue and John Weststrate, and plans to attend university
to become a teacher.
Her favourite hobbies include music, drama, dance, singing,
animals and sports. Lisa's schools involvements are Ontario Students
Against Impaired Driving, Energizers, concert band, drama department,
badminton and volleyball teams, peer tutor for students with
developmental disabilities and a helper for students involved
with Grade 10 testing.
Lisa, 18, has been involved with Sunday schools and vacation
bible schools, the Edwardsburgh Public Library, 4-H clubs, junior
Optimist Club, the guiding movement and a Brockville stage company.
She previously worked at Village Pantry in Spencerville, and
is currently employed at Kelsey's in Brockville.
Lisa is sponsored by Village Pantry.
PRESCOTT Town council has agreed to sponsor a charity
cookbook being put together by a local businessman.
Marc Cardinal of Frametastic Gallery is publishing a book
using recipes he has collected for customers. Proceeds from sales
of the cookbook will go to the palliative care unit at St. Vincent
de Paul Hospital in Brockville.
Prescott council indicated this spring it was not prepared
at that time to contribute municipal funds to Cardinal's project,
although council members noted they support his effort.
However, council voted last Tuesday to approve a $100 sponsorship.
Some councillors maintained they were reluctant to use municipal
money for such a purpose, but a majority of council agreed to
the move.
"For $100, I don't have trouble supporting it,"
Councillor Garry Dewar said. "I don't think it will set
a precedent."
Councillor Terry McConnell said the cookbook is a worthwhile
cause, but noted the town is already supporting hospital fundraising
campaigns and a recruitment drive aimed at attracting physicians
to the area.
"I'm not prepared to change my mind," McConnell
stated.
Councillor Nancy McFarland said the sponsorship would show
Prescott is a community that supports its small businesses.
Cardinal, who attended the meeting, said he believes Prescott
should stand behind individuals who are willing to take on projects
like the charity cookbook. He noted the Town of Gananoque and
the local MP and MPP had already agreed to be sponsors.
One thousand cookbooks are to be published. They will be distributed
this fall, according to Cardinal.
Town agrees to sponsor cookbookSign up for
teen talent contest at Legion
PRESCOTT The Ladies Auxiliary of Royal Canadian Legion
Branch 97 is hosting a teen talent contest Thursday, Sept. 19
as part of Legion Week.
Entrants between the ages of 13 and 18 will compete in four
categories: song, dance, instrumental and variety. Each performer
will receive three to four minutes and be judged on poise, content,
presentation and rapport.
First prize is $100 and second prize is $50.
All entries must be received by the branch no later than this
Thursday, Sept. 12. The first 30 applications will be accepted;
there is an entry fee. Applications can be left at the Legion
Hall to the attention of Judy Stead.
The public is invited to attend the contest which begins at
6:30 pm.
Three-minute grocery
shopping spree to be won
PRESCOTT Branch 97 of the Royal Canadian Legion and
Valu-mart are offering the chance for one lucky person to fill
up on groceries.
A three-minute shopping spree that will take place Oct. 7
is the top prize in the Legion's fundraising draw for the Canadian-American
Veterans Reunion Association reunion to be hosted by the Prescott
Legion branch in June 2003.; the value of the items in the cart
is not to exceed $1,000.
A $100 voucher goes to the winner of the second prize. The
third prize is $50. The draw takes place Sept. 30 at the Legion
Hall.
For ticket information, contact Linda Wing at 348-3825 or
Marie Brown at 925-5771.
Golden Helmets deliver safety message
PRESCOTT - The Golden Helmets are continuing to deliver their
motorcycle safety message to communities across the province.
Members of the Ontario Provincial Police precision motorcycle
team were in North Grenville in late August. Sergeant John Mason,
who has served with the unit off and on for more than 23 years,
said officers took part in week-long training involving motorcades
and escorting visiting dignitaries.
Mason visited the Grenville County OPP detachment in Prescott
Aug. 30.
The special unit was formed in 1963. Its 23 members, who also
perform regular motorcycle patrol duties, attend shows and parades
across the province and sell ball caps for charity. Two of the
unit's 23 members serve in Eastern Ontario.
Members do not perform tricks or stunts at public appearances.
Mason said the Golden Helmets promote the safe operation of motorcycles;
riders can still enjoy their machines while driving them properly,
according to the sergeant.
Mason said well-trained motorcycle operators will usually
respect other traffic more so than car drivers who have not received
additional training. The sergeant noted people on motorcycles
are often more aware of their surroundings and the fact they
share the road with much larger vehicles.
"You've got to prepare yourself for everything,"
Mason said.
As a long-time motorcycle enthusiast, Mason said he enjoys
the "sense of freedom" associated with being on the
open road. Motorcycles are not for everyone, although the sergeant
noted he finds them very comfortable to ride.
"I just find cars a little stuffy," he said.
The Golden Helmets will appear later this month in Bancroft
and Odessa.
Local farmers continue to offer support as
Hay West Campaign continues
PRESCOTT - The efforts of Grenville County farmers donating
to the Hay West Campaign have continued despite a slowing down
of the process.
As of Thursday, Sept. 5 Grenville County Hay West co-ordinator
Paul Gaw, said the holdup was waiting for the new bunch of rail
cars to be divided among the different Hay West points so all
the hay across Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia
could be sent west.
Grenville County has about 600 round bales waiting to be moved
to Smiths Falls for loading and fumigating before making their
way out west.
"It's been one of those hurry up and wait deals,"
says Gaw. "Only one-third of the hay donated in Grenville
has been shipped. We sent up more hay last weekend after we got
more cars, but there's still so much to go."
The last shipment of hay from Smiths Falls was Aug. 24.
"The show of support by everyone for these farmers has
just been awesome," says Gaw. "The volunteers at the
Hay West points seem to be getting a little worn down and they
may possibly set up different points. I've heard Cornwall as
being a possibility."
"Things haven't stopped for the last month and a half,"
says Pierre Brodeur, co-chair of Hay West. "Smiths Falls
has been the most busy site for Hay West making loading and unloading
difficult."
President of the Grenville Federation of Agriculture, Adrian
Wynands added "It was getting a little frustrating. We're
getting into the fall work, so things had to get done soon."
Hunter fined $5,500 for licence-related offences
BROCKVILLE A Spencerville man has been fined a total
of $5,500 after being convicted of 13 counts of hunting-related
offences.
Daniel C. Potvin, 53, was convicted in Brockville court of
possessing more than one outdoors card, applying for more than
one card, holding more than one licence to hunt moose, failing
to wear hunter orange, knowingly making a false statement to
a conservation officer and other offences.
In addition to being fined, Potvin was banned from hunting
for five years. He also permanently forfeited his firearm to
the crown.
Justice of the Peace Veronica Carmichael handed down the sentence
Aug. 29.
The charges cover a seven-year period beginning in 1993, according
to a Ministry of Natural Resources news release. The court was
told the accused applied for and received two outdoors cards
which were later renewed and used to apply for and receive moose
hunting licences and moose validation tags.
Town agrees to pay
$94,000 for land owned by ministry
PRESCOTT Town council has given the green light to purchasing
land owned by the Ministry of Transportation near the Prescott
Centre development.
Council members agreed at a committee meeting Monday to purchase
the 1.73-acre strip of land for $94,000. This will enable the
necessary approvals and permits to proceed as work continues
on Prescott Centre Drive. Traffic signals will be erected at
the intersection of Edward Street and the new road to the south
of the Ontario Provincial Police station.
With the new Canadian Tire and Your Independent Grocer stores
expected to be open this fall, the town was advised recently
it must purchase the land from the ministry in order for certain
permits to be issued.
Council had no choice but to sign an agreement and proceed,
according to Councillor Jim French.
The town has budgeted $1.1 million this year for infrastructure
work and other costs associated with the north-end commercial
development.
Augusta Township injects
$5,000 into doctor drive
By Monica Whitney - Journal Staff Writer
MAYNARD - The Leeds-Grenville Physician Recruitment Task Force
has received a $5,000 booster shot from Augusta Township.
Council agreed at its Monday meeting to give the amount in
a lump sum payment, rather spread the donation over two years.
Council had allowed for the donation in the 2002 budget.
Reeve George Vail raised the issue of the donation during
the "new business" section of the meeting, stating
he had been prompted to revisit the subject following a reminder
call from task force Physician Recruiter Carlene MacDonald.
While Councillor Jane Fullarton said council could not commit
funds beyond its term, she felt it was important the township
show its support to help alleviate the doctor shortage in this
area. "It's a cost for everybody to share and bear,"
she said.
Councillor Bill Buckler also strongly recommended the donation
to the campaign.
Several general physicians have established practices in the
Brockville area, including one doctor in Prescott, since the
task force was formed in 2000. The Ministry of Health and Long-Term
Care has designated the area underserviced in reference to the
availability of family doctors.
The task force continues to seek funding from municipalities
and businesses in Leeds and Grenville to assist with incentives
and related recruitment expenses.
The Brockville area is one of 112 communities in Ontario designated
as being underserviced.
Township still without clerk
MAYNARD - Augusta has yet to hire a chief administrative officer
for the township.
Councillor Jane Fullarton, chair of the personnel and finance
committee, reported Monday night the second round of interviews
for the position had been completed. However, council is continuing
to work out details with an applicant in the "ongoing process."
She was not certain when a new clerk would be on board.
The position has been vacant since the end of June when CAO
Nigel White left to take up a position with the United Counties
of Leeds and Grenville.
Prescott council supports call to reintroduce
spring bear hunt
PRESCOTT - The Town of Prescott is now on record as supporting
calls for the provincial government to reintroduce the spring
bear hunt.
Town council voted last Tuesday to support a resolution from
the Municipality of Hastings Highlands which cites growing problems
with nuisance bear encounters and concerns about the safety of
residents and visitors.
The Hastings Highlands resolution states, "...unless
action is taken immediately, it is only a matter of time until
further bear attacks on human beings and/or livestock are going
to happen in this province."
The Ministry of Natural Resources put an end to the spring
bear hunt several years ago, a move that continues to spark controversy
as wildlife groups clash with hunters and tourist operators over
the merits of the ban. Bear-related problems have increased significantly
since the ban was imposed, opponents continue to claim.
Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead, who noted she did not support
a similar request about two years ago when she served on the
previous council, said she would support it this time.
Historic house tour strolls through a past century
SPENCERVILLE A house tour in the charming country village
of Spencerville Saturday, Sept. 28 offers visitors an afternoon
of exploration and education while strolling through another
century.
The sixth annual house tour presented by the Grenville County
Historical Society features six stone homes that helped shape
the historic village.
The Spencer family carved a niche in the forest to build the
first mill on the South Nation river here. The current stone
mill is the fourth building to occupy the site, the others having
been destroyed fire. It has undergone extensive restoration to
reflect its 1908 appearance. The concrete weir (dam) which was
originally made of wood, has been repaired and the surrounding
park area landscaped.
In those early days, mills were very prosperous and the son
of that original miller used his wealth to add to the tiny village.
David Spencer built two of the houses featured on this tour,
one in 1837 and one in 1844. His daughter, Mercy, built a third
in 1855 before she and her husband, Robert Fairbairn, purchased
the burned-out mill from her father. The history of Fairbairn
House at 6 South St. is closely linked to the mill, providing
elegant living quarters for the millers' families. It is further
enhanced by the surrounding two acres of gardens.
Across the bridge from the mill, David Spencer built his own
imposing home in 1844. Only two families have owned this property
at 6075 County Road 44. Spencer resided there until his death
in 1869, and in the 1890s the home was purchased by Charles Baker,
the township clerk-treasurer, and it has remained in the Baker
family since then.
In addition to serving farmers' needs in the 19th century,
David Spencer satisfied tired, hungry, thirsty travellers at
the luxurious Victoria Hotel. Located at 6 Spencer St., it was
built in 1837 and named in honour of the new queen. Later, a
secret passageway would give access to the delights of the summer
kitchen attic in defiance of the 1878 Temperance Act. The second
storey ballroom saw much activity before being converted into
seven bedrooms, each with its own boxstove.
By contrast, the Temperance Hotel operated in the 1860s. It
was built in 1851 by George Shaver as the Exchange Hotel and
Stagehouse, again taking advantage of the coach and train run
between Bytown and Prescott. Over the years it has housed a shoemaker,
a signmaker, the village post office and a potter. Today, it
is a private residence at 12 Spencer St.
A growing community must have a general store and Millar's
supplied every need. It was a match factory in the 1840s and
later accommodated Rev. Hugh Brown, when the Presbyterian church
would not. It seems the church establishment was not impressed
with Rev. Brown's drinking habits but his loyal congregation
gathered round, listening to him preach in the north woods and
allowing him to take his earnings from the collection plate.
Today, the restored building at 28 Spencer St. houses its owner
and his construction business which specializes in the restoration
and reconstruction of century buildings.
A traditional afternoon tea will be served as part of the
tour at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church.
Tickets for the tour, which runs from 1 to 4:30 pm, are available
at each of the sites on the day of the tour, or can be purchased
in advance at Young's of Prescott and Flower World in Prescott,
Gilhooly's Antiques in Brockville and the Village Pantry in Spencerville.
Each ticket is a mini-brochure describing the individual houses
and showing the locations on a map of the village. The tea is
included in the ticket price. All of the houses are within walking
distance of each other, and there is ample parking at the mill.
Historical society volunteers will act as tour guides at each
site.
Have a coffee and support Alzheimer Society
SOUTH GRENVILLE - Businesses, groups and individuals in the
Prescott area are being asked to host a Coffee Break and support
the Alzheimer Society.
The annual event returns Thursday, Sept. 19. By serving coffee
to colleagues, customers or friends, Canadians can raise money
and increase awareness of Alzheimer disease and its effects.
Alzheimer's is a degenerative brain disorder most common in
people over the age of 65. There are an estimated 1,400 diagnosed
cases of the disease in the united counties.
For more information or to order a Coffee Break kit contact
the local Alzheimer Society office at 345-7392.
Police seize $300,000 in marijuana from rural property near
Maynard
MAYNARD A man and woman face numerous charges after
police seized marijuana with an estimated street value of $300,000
from a property on County Road 26.
Members of the Grenville County detachment of the Ontario
Provincial Police, along with the Leeds and Grenville Crime Unit
and the OPP Emergency Response Team, Tactics and Rescue Unit,
executed a warrant early last Friday morning at a residence on
County Road 26, west of Maynard. Drug enforcement, canine and
helicopter units took part in the bust. Numerous marijuana plants
were located on the property.
An OPP news release issued Friday noted the occupants, a 42-year-old
man and a 42-year-old woman, were charged.
As of press time, police had not released the names of the
accused. In addition to charges of production of and possession
for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance (marijuana),
both face three counts of unsafe storage of a firearm and one
count of unsafe storage of ammunition.
The man and woman were released from custody and are scheduled
to appear in Brockville court Oct. 11.
Crime unit probes early-morning blaze
MAITLAND The Leeds and Grenville Crime Unit of the Ontario
Provincial Police is investigating a fire that destroyed a home's
three-car garage at 1279 County Road 2 east of Maitland early
Monday morning.
Augusta Township Fire Chief Lorne Dougherty said the garage
was fully engulfed when about 25 firefighters responded to the
blaze at about 12:25 am. The home owned by Michael and Karen
Hurley sustained smoke damage, he said.
Dougherty noted the Hurleys and their three children, aged
14, 12 and 10, were awakened by their dogs barking. Smoke detectors
sounded soon after. There were no injuries. He estimated damage
at about $50,000.
The fire was under control in about one hour, Dougherty said,
but firefighters remained on the scene until about 5 am.
OPP investigating officer, Detective Constable George Duke,
was at the scene with the Ontario fire marshal until at least
late Monday afternoon. Further details from the OPP were not
available by press time.
The fire marshal requested Augusta firefighters to return
to the scene Monday afternoon on a non-emergency call.
Mothers and daughters
walk for heart and stroke foundation
LEEDS AND GRENVILLE The Cheerios Mother Daughter Walk
for Heart and Stroke will be held Sunday, Sept. 22 at Hardy Park
in Brockville.
The walk is a program of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of
Ontario's HeartSmart Women's Initiative. It has been proven women's
symptoms of heart problems can be different from those of men.
Heart disease and stroke is the number one cause of death among
women in Ontario.
The Brockville walk for communities in Leeds, Grenville and
Lanark counties is one of 60 to be held in Canada. In addition
to the two- or four-km walk along Brockville's waterfront, there
will be family entertainment and displays.
For more information on the event, call 345-6183.
Subdivision street
names are changed
MAYNARD New streets within the Algonquin subdivision
between Algonquin Road and County Road 15 were renamed by Augusta
council at its Monday night meeting.
The original names had been registered several years ago in
the subdivision plan; the current developer had requested the
name changes.
Kaloosit Road will be renamed Appaloosa Path, MicMac Trail
will become Cheyenne Trail, and Masusi Way will be renamed Montana
Way.
Men's group to host
breakfast meeting
PRESCOTT The Seaway Men's Ecumenical Club will host
a breakfast meeting Saturday, Sept. 21 at 8 am at St. Paul's
United Church on George Street in Prescott.
In addition to the all-you-can-eat breakfast, the get-together
will feature guest speaker Sandra Lawn. A before-and-after video
of Prescott's harbour area will also be presented.
Admission can be paid at the door; all are welcome to attend.
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