VOL. 173, NO.7 ~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ February 12, 2003 

Labour dispute looms in Augusta

Unionized workers in legal strike position Feb. 23

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD ­ Augusta Township's unionized employees will be in a legal strike position Feb. 23.

After negotiations broke down Feb. 4 between the township and the Ontario Public Service Employees' Union - the union that represents 14 employees in pubic works, library and office - the union filed for Ministry of Labour authorization to strike.

Henry Brugma, a staff representative with OPSEU's Kingston office, confirmed once the "no-board report" or authorization was issued last Thursday, the employees could legally walk off the job in 17 days from that date.

The employees received union certification in spring 2002, and they have been negotiating with the township for ever since, Brugma said. A first contract is still under negotiation, and the parties have not been able to come together, he added.

Some agreements were made on several issues during ongoing talks, Brugma said, but the township has been unwilling to move on "money items," specifically wages and benefits.

Following the day-long meeting Feb. 4 at the White House Motel near Brockville, Brugma said the township came back at 3:30 p.m. with what it considered to be the final and best offer.

That offer did not meet what the union expected, Brugma said, noting he informed the township at that time to prepare for a strike. "I simply told them we weren't happy..." he said, adding the township did not like the union's proposal either.

In noting township employees have not received a wage increase since 2001, Brugma said one of the main outstanding issues deals with retroactive pay for staff on the lower end of the wage scale.

While the offer for higher-paid employees is "fair and equitable" and compares with salaries in other municipalities of similar size, Brugma said the offer for lower-paid employees "is next to nothing." Proportionately, the increases are not the same, he said.

Mediation talks are scheduled for Friday, Feb. 21, the union representative said. If there is an "honest attempt" on the employer's part to move on issues at that time, Brugma said there would not a disruption of township services.

A call made by The Prescott Journal to Reeve George Vail at his home last Thursday afternoon asking for comment on the issue was not returned. At council Monday night, the reeve briefly stated negotiations are ongoing. He added: "Other than that, this township takes the opinion that we don't negotiate in the papers."

THIS WEEK

Groups have access to funding options

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ Organizations seeking government funding are invited to attend an information session Wednesday, March 26 at the Royal Canadian Legion in Gananoque.

The resource forum will identify grant opportunities and offer insight into how to write funding proposals. Representatives from a number of government ministries and agencies will be on hand. Service groups, church and recreation committees and school councils are among the organizations being encouraged to attend the open house.

The event is being hosted by United Way of Leeds and Grenville. For more information or to register, call 342-8889.

RSL seeks to maintain its for-profit status

PRESCOTT ­ Rideau St. Lawrence (RSL) shall remain a for-profit corporation, Prescott council is expected to declare next week.

The local company was formed two years ago from smaller municipal utilities in Prescott (the former PUC), Cardinal (Cardinal Hydro), South Dundas and Westport. As a result of provincial legislation that was passed in December, municipalities must declare by early March whether energy distribution companies like RSL are to remain for-profit. They will automatically revert to not-for-profit status if no declaration is made.

Hugh George, Prescott's new appointee on the RSL board, told town officials Monday the board's support for maintaining for-profit was unanimous. The move would give the company more flexibility, according to George.

Prescott council will vote on a formal resolution at its meeting Monday.

New women's group hosts breakfast meeting

PRESCOTT ­ The next monthly meeting of the Business Women's Network will take place Wednesday, Feb. 19 at Walker House on King Street W.

The breakfast meeting starts at 7:30 am and will feature a report on downtown revitalization. Admission is $2 per person. This will be the third meeting of the local organization.

For more information, call Jane at The Gift Lane (925-4991).

Correction and apology

Due to a production error, a photo of Louise Mayes that appeared on the front page of the Feb. 5 edition was misidentified as being that of Jane Stuart Kines.

The Journal apologizes to Mrs. Mayes and the Kines and Stuart families for any embarrassment or inconvenience the error may have caused.

High school teachers give strike mandate

PRESCOTT ­ Negotiations aimed at avoiding a work stoppage at high schools in the region have taken place.

Officials representing the Upper Canada District School Board and District 26 of the Ontario Secondary School Teachers' Federation (OSSTF) met late last week.

The teachers have been without a new collective agreement since Sept. 2001. The Upper Canada board operates South Grenville District High School.

A vote held Feb. 3 indicated 92 per cent of Upper Canada high school teachers were in favour of strike action. "I think the strong strike mandate is an indication that teachers are frustrated that this is taking so long," stated Carson Kilpatrick, president of the teachers' bargaining unit.

Kilpatrick, who works at South Grenville DHS, also stated in a Feb. 4 news release teachers are anxious to put negotiations behind them by resolving outstanding issues.

Negotiations were continuing as of Tuesday, Kilpatrick told The Journal.

No formal strike date had been set as of last week.

The board had not issued a news release on the subject as of Monday.

Fireworks show will add flare to Frost Festival this weekend

PRESCOTT ­ This year's Fort Town Frost Festival is expected to go off with a bang this weekend.

A Saturday evening fireworks show on Prescott's waterfront near Fort Wellington will be one of the highlights of the annual celebration of winter.

The show, which is being presented by Hands Fireworks of Domville, begins at 7:30 pm and is expected to last about 15 minutes. Spectators will be allowed to watch the show from the fort grounds north of King Street East.

King Street between East and Boundary streets will be closed to vehicular traffic early Saturday evening and for the duration of the fireworks show. The western section of Prescott's Heritage River Trail will be closed to pedestrians Saturday and Sunday morning.

Numerous community events will take place during the three-day festival that kicks off Friday. A Valentine tea and bake sale will take place at St. Paul's United Church, and the Fort Wellington branch of the Royal Canadian Legion will host a dance Friday night. The Legion hall will also be the site of a spaghetti and meat ball dinner late Saturday afternoon and a breakfast Sunday morning.

The annual Randy Kroone Memorial Sno-Pitch Tournament takes place Saturday at the RCA ball park in the north end of town. Spectators are welcome to attend this Kinsmen Club of Prescott event. Call Arnie at 925-1900 (home) or 925-5353 (work) to register a team or for more information.

The parking lot at Beach Home Hardware will play host to a lumberjack contest Saturday morning. Free hay rides will be offered downtown from noon to 2 pm Saturday at the clock tower parking lot.

A roast beef dinner to benefit the UN Student Pilgrimage Committee will take place Saturday at Friendship Hall on Henry Street West.

Sunday afternoon will see the popular dog sled run at the Prescott Golf Club. Free rides for the kids will be offered after the run, time permitting.

There are also free public skating sessions planned this weekend at the Leo Boivin Community Centre, as well as the usual sledding and tobogganing opportunities at Fort Wellington.

A snowman contest is being held as part of the festival. Judging will take place this Sunday. To enter, call 925-4324 and leave your name and address.

See the schedule in this week's Journal for more details of festival events.

Shakespeare festival receives more town funding

PRESCOTT ­ It appears the Town of Prescott will provide additional seed funding to the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.

Town council has already agreed to give $750 to the festival, which will be staged in June and July at the amphitheatre. Council members in attendance at a committee meeting Monday night agreed to commit an additional $5,850 to help cover a bond that will ensure five unionized actors and the director will be paid in the event the production of The Tempest is cancelled.

The committee's position must still be endorsed by council at its meeting Monday; the move is considered to be a formality.

Mayor Robert Lawn noted festival organizers had submitted "a well-developed business plan" for council to consider. Lawn also pointed out a meeting of festival volunteers held last Wednesday drew more than 30 people, and many are rushing to support the plan.

"It is important that council be seen as showing leadership on this issue," the mayor said.

In noting his support of the festival, Councillor Terry McConnell asked whether the additional funding would be taken from the town's tourism budget. Councillor Nancy McFarland said the tourism budget is already "very thin."

The contribution could be included in the community services budget, according to CAO/Clerk Robert Haller.

The festival now has a 2003 budget of more than $94,000. Public-sector grants and ticket sales make up the bulk of the projected revenues. Eighteen performances of The Tempest will be offered between June 26 and July 26.

Augusta council asked to reconsider paving decision on Lords Mills Road

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD ­ Augusta council will not be bending on its decision to delay the paving of Lords Mills Road.

Steve Holmes, a resident of the road who made his second appearance before council on the subject Monday night, asked the township to reconsider, and finish the job it started. The residents have been misled, and the council has not acted in good faith, he said, noting preparing the road for paving has cost taxpayers money that has now been foolishly wasted.

Finishing the road - which has been the subject of debate for about 20 years - would be an opportunity for council to prove it stands by its word and spends money wisely, Holmes said. "All the time, money and efforts to date is, quite simply, a waste. You may as well have opened up the front door of this office and start throwing out the money."

Deputy Reeve Doug Barton said he is not trying to make excuses for council, but noted substantial amounts of money have been spent on other roads in the township.

"We only have so much money; the roads in this township were not in good shape," Barton explained. Many paved and gravel roads are deteriorating badly, and the township has the means to maintain gravel roads. However, when paved roads begin to break up, Augusta does not have the means to maintain them.

The township's intention now is to get existing paved roads that are deteriorating "back up to snuff." It is also following a long-range plan to 2006 for maintenance; Lords Mills Road is not included in that plan.

"There's more than just listening to concerns of people; we try to take a lot of things into account..." Barton said. "I would like to pave every road in the whole township, but it's all your dollars, and my dollars, and we've only got so many dollars."

Barton clarified $670,000 was spent on Lords Mills Road so far. Of that, $500,000 was taken from reserves. This was money that was supposed to be set aside to close down the Maynard landfill site, he added. "We have to make up the money somewhere."

Town agrees to extend crossing guard hours at crosswalk near high school

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Crossing guard hours will be extended at the Edward Street crosswalk in front of South Grenville District High School.

Town council members who attended a committee-of-the-whole meeting Monday night gave the green light to a recent request made by school Principal Brenda Ramsay. In her request, Ramsay asked the town to provide a guard before and after school as well as during lunch. The town has been providing service for elementary school students from 8:10 to 8:50 am and 3:10 to 4 pm weekdays.

The additional two-and-a-half hours per day will cost the town more than $125 per week during the course of the school year. Mayor Robert Lawn noted it is "a significant increase," but the committee gave CAO/Clerk Robert Haller direction to proceed with the extension and see if the crossing guard who works at the Edward Street crosswalk can work the additional hours.

Town officials are reviewing options for Edward Street between Churchill Road and the Prescott Centre Drive intersection. Although the installation of traffic lights that accompanied the opening of new stores in the area prompted the review, the mayor indicated the real issue is the steadily increasing amount of traffic over the years on Edward Street. It is more difficult than ever for pedestrians to cross the busy north-south roadway, Lawn noted.

Councillor Terry McConnell said the town will probably have to look at putting in a sidewalk on the west side of Edward beside the cemetery, a task that may be difficult given the hill and the cemetery's proximity to the street. McConnell questioned the value of putting a sidewalk on the west side of Edward between Victor Road and the Highway 401 eastbound entrance and exit.

The crosswalk at Victor Road in front of the high school is now believed to be illegal because it is too close to the traffic lights to the north. However, there are no plans at this time to remove the crosswalk signs. Town officials are considering the possibility of establishing at least one crosswalk with overhead warning lights on that stretch of Edward Street.

CORRECTION

An article in the Feb. 5 edition stated Grade 3 students at St. Mark school scored below average in province-wide reading tests conducted last year.

The article should have stated the below-average results were recorded in writing tests. St. Mark exceeded the provincial average in reading and mathematics.

Arrival of wireless high-speed service seen as important step for Prescott

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ High-speed wireless connections could soon become a reality in Prescott.

Town council is expected to enter into an agreement next week to allow Digital Networks to place antennas on the water tower.

In a presentation at a town committee-of-the-whole meeting Monday night, Digital Networks Seaway Division President Martin Noe said the antennas would provide coverage to about 90 per cent of the town. The work would take a couple of weeks to complete, and then service packages would be available.

At a start-up fee of $599 for equipment and $49 per month for high-speed residential service, Digital is less expensive than the broadband service announced recently as part of a partnership involving RipNet and more than $2 million in customer rebates being offered by the provincial government. This other service will reportedly be available throughout Leeds and Grenville later this year.

In noting speculation Bell Canada will soon be offering high-speed Internet access, Noe said he welcomes competition that will drive prices down for consumers.

As for use of the town's water tower, Digital has offered two lease options; one would see the company pay the town $1,200 per year for 10 years and the option to renew, and the other would provide the municipality with equipment, hook-up and monthly service plus an annual payment of $600 in years two through ten.

The proposal by Digital Networks also received support at the committee meeting from PlayitStar owner James Hutchison, who told town officials the importance of such a service to the commercial and residential sectors cannot be underestimated.

In noting his belief other high-speed service being offered is not affordable for many people, Hutchison said there are people who have moved to Prescott and are now moving out because of the absence of affordable broadband service. The town has fallen behind many other communities in terms of this technology, it was noted.

Car crashes into house in Prescott

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Two elderly women were taken to the hospital with minor injuries after their car crashed into a house at the corner of King and East streets Friday afternoon.

According to Police Chief Bryan Somerville, a 1993 Ford Taurus driven by Edith Zimmerling, 76, of Brockville was travelling west on King Street and slowing to turn right onto East Street when the driver's foot accidentally hit the accelerator, sending the car crashing into the house and causing extensive damage to the porch.

"I don't think she was going that fast until she accidentally hit the gas pedal," said Somerville. "That's when the car took off."

The house's lone occupant, Elizabeth Newton, was upstairs at the time of the collision and was not injured.

"I was upstairs right above the veranda when I heard a big explosion," explained Newton. "At first I thought it could be an earthquake or busted gas main, I never realized it was my own house. Knowing that no one was hurt seriously you can look back and laugh about it, especially since I had just moved in before Christmas."

Newton indicated at least half the porch was ruined, including most of the furniture inside.

Zimmerling and a passenger in the car were transported to Brockville General Hospital where they were treated and released. It is believed both occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision.

Somerville indicated no charges were laid, as the incident was determined to be as a mishap.

Constable Cindy Bisson is the investigating officer.

Jump Team will present its report later this week

LEEDS-GRENVILLE ­ The report and recommendations that could help revitalize Prescott's downtown will be presented at a workshop this Friday, Feb. 14 at the Royal Brock Hotel in Brockville.

The town was among several municipalities in Leeds and Grenville that participated in consultations with a provincial Resource Jump Team last November; the workshops were designed to gather information to develop strategies for improving and strengthening the communities.

The Jump Team is part of the Ontario government's plan to kick-start specific areas in rural Ontario.

The team acts as an economic development tool that helps communities address specific challenges and opportunities they have identified.

New vice-principal feels welcome at high school

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - South Grenville District High School's new vice-principal Joellen Bauder is happy to be at the high school and is expecting the best of the students.

"The kids have been very welcoming," said Bauder. "Everyone has been so accommodating here; I expect the best out of people and so far everyone has lived up to it."

After a couple weeks under her belt Bauder doesn't notice a big change from her previous jobs at Athens District High School, Rideau District High School and one year teaching in Califorina and South Grenville

"There really isn't much of a difference in kids this age," said Bauder. "It's the same as usual they're friends are very important to them and we just try and help them along to mold them into sound adults."

The Maitland native also hopes to get actively involved in the school's everyday issues. "When I first started there were some comments about attendance being a little bit of a problem," explained Bauder.

"I'm trying to wander about the halls as a friendly reminder and ask people where they're supposed to be as a friendly daily reminder."

Bauder also hopes to get involved with the school's strong athletic tradition as she has had experience with her previous jobs.

"I'm a volleyball and track and field coach," said Bauder. "With the volleyball season nearing an end, the first chance I'll get to get into the athletics will be the track season. I've let everyone know I'd be happy to work with the throwers and get involved this spring. I've already seen some posters up for indoor track, and I'm looking forward to it."

The Romantics make beautiful music together

PRESCOTT ­ Romance will be in the air as the Fort Town Concert Association's 2002-2003 series continues later this month.

The Romantics ­ cellist Benoit Loiselle and pianist François Zeitouni ­ will perform in Prescott Thursday, Feb. 20 at 8 pm at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, which is located at the corner of Centre and Dibble streets.

The duo will share the stage with the great romantic geniuses of Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Schumann and Chopin. Loiselle and Zeitouni will also perform a piece by award-winning Canadian composer Alain Beauchesne.

Both musicians are graduates of the Conservatoire de musique du Québec in Montreal. Loiselle is a chamber player in many musical venues in Canada and Europe and a soloist with various orchestras in his home province. Zeitouni gives piano recitals regularly and participates in chamber music ensembles.

The Fort Town series is presented in conjunction with Jeunesses Musicales of Canada and under the auspices of the Ontario Arts Council.

The Feb. 20 concert is sponsored by the Corporation of the Town of Prescott.

Special ticket prices apply to students. Children under the age of 12 are admitted free of charge.

For more information, call 925-5050 or visit www.webify/ftca.

SCHOOL SCENE

BENSON PUBLIC SCHOOL: The school is having its winter carnival this week. Monday was "Backwards Day" and Tuesday was "PJ Day." Skating is being featured today. Thursday will be "Gum Chewing Day" and Terrific Kids, followed by the Talent Show Friday.

Hot lunches are available each week (pizza on Tuesdays, hot dogs on Wednesdays and subs on Thursdays); food orders must be in the day before. Milk is available all week; however, milk orders have to be in a week ahead of time.

CENTENNIAL '67-NORTH EDWARDSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOL: NEPS students are enjoying a week of Winter Fun activities. Monday was "Hat Day" and Tuesday was "Inside-out Day." Today is "Sweatshirt/T-shirt Day," followed by "Hawaiian Day" Thursday and "Red/White/Pink Day" Friday.

The senior band from South Grenville District High School performed for the enjoyment of Centennial '67 students Tuesday.

Basketball practices continue for the grade 7/8 boys and girls.

Our French club is rehearsing a play to be performed later this month.

Indoor recess games begin this week at Centennial; this is being made possible by our new Playground Leadership Program.

SOUTH EDWARDSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL: The Kindergarten class will enjoy its Valentine's Day party and card exchange today. On Monday, the Kindergarten class will celebrate Grandparent Appreciation Day. All grandparents are welcome from 2-3 pm.

Also on Monday, grades 5-8 will participate in an exciting peregrine falcon presentation.

The hot lunch today is hot dogs; next week, it's subs.

Parents of children who will be four years old before Dec. 31, 2003 may register for Kindergarten by calling the school at 925-4183.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL: St. Joseph school hosted the district Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship. Congratulations to Carly Joudoin and Torin Marcynuk who each won in their respective age categories. St. Joseph's was well represented, and all athletes are to be congratulated.

Grade 8 students will be travelling to St. Mary High School today to attend an orientation session. Information will be handed out at this time concerning registration for Sept. 2003.

There will also be a parent meeting today for Grade 6 students who are planning on being confirmed this spring. The meeting will begin with mass at St. Mark's Parish at 7 pm, followed by the meeting.

There will be a drug presentation for all students in Grade 8 this Thursday and Friday.

Just a reminder there will be a school council meeting Thursday in our school library. All parents are welcome to attend.

This Friday is Valentine's Day, and that means it is Red and White Day. All students interested in showing some school spirit are encouraged to wear these colours.

Congratulations to our students of the week: Patrick Richardson, Sean Blackburn, Michael Toohey, Ashley Anderson, Cameron Verstegen, Erin Wynands, Brad Douglas, Adam Wyatt and Tim Hayman.

ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL: Last Friday, Feb. 6 was 100th day at school. Many educational activities were offered to students to celebrate this important milestone in the school year.

We celebrated a wonderful school mission mass Monday at St. Mark Catholic Church with Father Appelman as the celebrant.

Today, our students will participate in skating from 1-3 pm at the Leo Boivin Community Centre as part of their physical and health education curriculum.

This Friday, Feb. 14, students are invited to wear pink, red or white to celebrate St. Valentine's Day.

We acknowledge our students and staff who have been working so hard to complete and evaluate the mid-year assessments. We look forward to viewing the results soon.

We continue to sell Caramilk chocolate bars as a Valentine fundraiser. The campaign will continue until Feb. 19.

Kindergarten Registration Week is Feb. 17-21. Parents having children four years of age by Dec. 31/03 are eligible for junior kindergarten. Parents having children five years of age by Dec. 31/03 are eligible for senior kindergarten. Kindly contact the school at 925-3581 to set up an appointment.

Our All Star Reading Strategies this week are: Kindergarten ­ Book Awareness Strategies ("Which way do you go?"); Grade 1 ­ Book Awareness Strategies ("Five finger rule"); Grade 2 ­ Ways to Respond ("Read and think"); Grade 3 ­ Unstuck Strategies ("Word power with rhyming parts").

The hot lunch this week is hamburgers (Wednesday for JK/SK A and Thursday for JK/SK B to Grade 3).

Fort Wellington offers March Break fun for children

PRESCOTT ­ History will come alive during the March Break at Fort Wellington.

The national historic site is once again offering its fun and educational afternoon sessions for children ages eight to 13. The fort's blockhouse will provide the setting for the sessions to be held Monday, March 10 to Thursday, March 13 from 1 to 3:30 pm.

Children can enlist in the "New Recruits" program Monday to become a better solider of the Royal Canadian Rifle Regiment. Recruits will learn about life at the fort first-hand as they help a solider prepare for battle, shine a soldier's boots and more.

Nineteenth century forts and fortifications will be the subject of Tuesday's program. As members of the Royal Corps of Engineers, children will learn what it takes to design a strong fort and then be the architect of their own fort.

The Wednesday session will enable participants to experience fort pleasures and pastimes. Traditional crafts and games of years gone by will fill the afternoon.

Youngsters will be digging up the dirt on Fort Wellington Thursday as part of the final session, "Afternoon Archaeologists." The kids will become detectives as they explore history through hands-on activities with original artifacts.

There is a fee for each session. Snacks will be provided. Each session has a maximum of 25 children; fort officials encourage people to sign up as soon as possible to avoid being disappointed. To register or for more information, call Elizabeth LeBlanc at 925-4746, ext. 104.

We are starting a six-week course Thursday, Feb. 20 at 1 pm to learn to crochet. The classes will teach the basic stitches and help each participant make an article. You only need to bring a 4.5-m hook to the first class. Please call 925-5300 to register.

The pork roast dinner will be held Friday, Feb. 21 at 5:30 pm. Please reserve your spot by Feb. 18.

Do you like to play euchre? Come and join us Thursday at 7:30 pm; bring a friend and give the regulars some dfferent competition. Could we have four new names on the winners list in one week?

Memberships and a deposit for the Magog trip are now due.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Andy Britnell; 2nd, Eleanor Gilligan; door prize, Jim Campbell. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Eleanor Gilligan and Marie Shahan; 2nd, Jeannie Marion and Bea Hemsley; 3rd, Pete Lowry; door prize, Hilda Hutton.

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

Indoor beach party set for March 29

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Spencerville Agricultural Society will host its first annual beach party Saturday, March 29 from 9 pm to 1 am in the sand at the Drummond Building.

Live entertainment will be provided by The Posse. Prizes will be available. Proceeds support the Spencerville Fair.

For advance tickets or more information, call Carol at 925-4304 or visit www.spencervillefair.com.

Ski trail celebration is this Saturday

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

The Gordon McCormack Maitland Cross-Country Ski Trails will be celebrating its 30th anniversary this weekend. The ski trails were the brain child of the late Gordon McCormack, who was an outdoor sports enthusiast.

McCormack approached landowners and received permission to use the area south of Highway 401, west of Maitland Road, north of the village of Maitland and east of Grenville Christian College.

Working in conjunction with Grenville Christian College and other interested Maitland residents, a club was formed and McCormack gave lessons to teach the sport.

The club applied for and received grants to help purchase a trail groomer and to construct a shelter, provide picnic tables, maps and signs along the trails. Funds for the operation of the trails were also provided by selling membership ski badges for $5, and by donations.

Pat Allport remembers cross country ski racing in the early days of the trails when the racers would shout, "Track!" to other recreational skiers ahead on the track. The recreational skiers would clear the trail and stand back as the racers sped by.

In the summer the trails were used by students in orienteering programs who would hike along the trails and stop at specifically marked places to do exercises such as chin ups.

The trails feature a shelter called the Red Birch Chalet which is a three-sided shelter that has a picnic table and a map showing the trails. The trails can be accessed at the MERC Hall or at the north cul de sac in the Maitland by the Trails subdivision.

The beauty of the trails is there can be dozens of people on them at once and you may only see a handful on your own trip around the trail. Fred Allport recalls the wonder of having a deer emerge across the path just in front of him one season.

About 10 years ago, the Cross-Country Ski Club merged with the Maitland Education and Recreation Corporation, and each year a trails committee chairman is appointed.

Currently, the land used by the trails is owned by Grenville Christian College, the Ministry of Natural Resources, Sid Deschiffert, Lawrence Grant, Fred and Pat Allport, Tom and Doris Connell, Charles Fox and the Township of Augusta.

There are lots of people who work on the trails to make sure they are ready to be enjoyed by skiers in the winter. In the fall there is a clear out, when volunteers clear fallen branches and undergrowth that obstructs the track.

A faithful team turns out every year to do this work, including Wayne Brohman, Fred Allport, Lorne Smith, Lloyd Chisolm, Tillis Kamphuis, Frank Bolger, Nick Van Wijk, Glen Moon, Dave Fewer, Morris Slate and Dave Darling.

Fred Allport has constructed a new grooming sled that is towed behind a snowmobile to set the track, and volunteers groom the trails after snow falls.

The cross-country ski trail's anniversary will be celebrated this Saturday, Feb. 15 with a family fun day at MERC Hall from noon till four. Bring your skis and skates for what promises to be a fun-filled afternoon.

Food bank seeks municipal assistance

Each council in Prescott area being asked to donate $1,600

MAYNARD ­ The Food For All food bank in Prescott is looking for financial support from the three municipalities it serves.

In a presentation to Augusta Township Monday night, food bank volunteer Bonnie Gommert asked for $1,600 to assist with ongoing operational expenses. The same request is being made to Edwardsburgh/Cardinal and Prescott.

The funding would allow the food bank to focus on providing food to those in need, and financial resources would then not have to be depleted for such expenses as taxes, hydro and telephone, Gommert explained.

In the four months Food For All has been in operation, it has distributed more than 700 food baskets to some 275 families representing about 500 individuals. The average retail value of a food basket containing 20 items is $37.50, which translates to a total value of more than $26,000, she told council

Nobody has yet to be turned away; Gommert hopes the shelves remain full for all who need the service.

"A lot of people need this; it's sad to see, actually," Gommert said. During one operating day last week, she noted 49 families visited the food bank. "The need is out there."

Gommert also noted the level of volunteerism within the food bank and from those in the community donating money and food has been excellent. "I'm glad we can do this in our community; people have been very good."

Augusta council did not offer any response. The presentation did not include statistics on how many of the food bank's clients are Augusta residents.

A cue to support the United Way

BROCKVILLE ­ The second annual United Way of Leeds and Grenville eight-ball tournament will take place Friday, Feb. 28 from 1 to 5 pm at Broad Street Bar and Billiards.

Five-member teams are welcome to take part in the fundraising event. Each player will win a prize; in addition to pool, there will be side games of darts and a 50/50 draw.

Proceeds go to the United Way; tax receipts will be issued when the admission fee is received.

To register or for more information, contact Paul Donovan at Clarica (345-5661, ext. 205).

OPP NEWS

Home ransacked during the day

MAITLAND ­ A house on Cedar Street was ransacked during the daylight hours of Feb. 5, according to Grenville County OPP. Someone entered the residence via the basement door. The home was not damaged; however, a large amount of jewellery and some electronic equipment was taken.

The break and enter is believed to have occurred between 8 am and 4 pm. A white coupe ­ possibly a Ford Taurus ­ with a spoiler was observed in the area that day. The estimated value of the stolen items exceeds $5,000, police said Monday.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Gaston Thibodeau at the detachment in Prescott (925-4221) or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Police remind the public getting a licence plate number as well as a description of a vehicle is a valuable tool in solving cases.

New snowmobile stolen from garage

AUGUSTA ­ Police are investigating the theft of a late-model snowmobile during the overnight hours of Feb. 6-7. The green 2003 Arctic Cat F5 500 cc had been stored in a garage on the 6th Concession; the snowmobile had less than 50 km on it and is part of the new "Fire Cat" line. The value of the snowmobile is in the range of $10,000. Witnesses report a pick-up truck was in the area at about 1:30 am.

Constable Rick Foley is the investigating officer.

ATV driver charged with trespassing

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The OPP Snowmobiles All-Terrain Vessel Enforcement (SAVE) team was in the area during the weekend to provide additional patrols on local snowmobile trails. On Saturday afternoon, an ATV driver was charged with trespassing. The 42-year-old Johnstown man was located trespassing on a snowmobile trail, according to police.

OPP officers respond to 85 calls

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Officers with the Grenville County detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police responded to 85 calls for service in Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal townships between Feb. 3-9. Fifty-nine of those calls for service originated in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

None of the 11 motor vehicle collisions investigated by local officers resulted in injuries.

Fatal crash witnesses asked to come forward

PRESCOTT ­ Grenville County OPP continue to seek the public's assistance as part of the investigation of a fatal motor vehicle collision west of Johnstown Jan. 29.

Senior Constable David Thompson is asking for witnesses who may have attempted to provide assistance at the scene of the crash on County Road 2. Jane Stuart Kines, 68, of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal died from injuries she sustained in the collision.

Terry Hutt, 50, of Johnstown sustained serious injuries.

The constable would also like to speak to anyone who may have been in contact with either driver in the hours preceding the crash, according to an OPP news release issued Tuesday.

"Any information someone may have, while seemingly unimportant, may provide the officers with an invaluable resource or tool in investigating this collision," the release states.

Witnesses are asked to contact the detachment in Prescott (925-4221) or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Scouts celebrate Baden Powell Week

Submitted by Scouter Karen, 7th Prescott Scouts

Here we are in February already, and as usual it is a very busy month for us. Each February, as you know, we celebrate the founding of Scouting, and remember Lord Baden Powell who started the program in 1907.

Baden Powell Week is from Feb. 16 to 23. We will be celebrating at our annual banquet which will be held Feb. 18 at St. Paul's United Church. This is a chance for all members of our scouting group - beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Venturers - to get together for an evening of fun and camaraderie, and to share in the delicious meal prepared by the United Church ladies.

Also as a group, we will be participating in the annual church parade, which will be held Feb. 23 at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Prescott. By visiting a different church each year, the youth get the chance to see other faiths, to participate in different religious services, and to strengthen the Scouter promise to "love and serve God."

It is also a popular tradition during Baden Powell Week for scouting members to wear their uniform to school or work. Be sure to give them a smile and a handshake (left hand, please).

With the weather being so cold, the Club Klondike was cancelled, much to the disappointment of the group. The Scout Klondike took place at Camp Sheldrick Feb. 1, and even though we only had two troops participate, everyone who went had a great time.

The people from 7th Prescott got to hear first hand what Thailand was like from the 8th Brockville people who were fortunate enough to attend this exciting World Jamboree. It got some of our group excited and looking forward to the next World Jamboree in 2007. It will be held in England on Brownsea Island, and there will be a re-enactment of the first Scout camp at Gilwell Park. It will be an amazing experience for those youth and leaders who get to go, and one they'll remember for a lifetime.

The Beavers joined in the Winter Fun Day Feb. 8 in Morrisburg. Scouts were also scheduled to finish their St. John Ambulance First Aid Training Feb. 8. We're very proud of the youth who are taking these commitments seriously. For many of the badges and awards they earn, they really put in a lot of time and effort, and it's very rewarding to be able to help them achieve their goals.

One final note is that 7th Prescott group and parents will be holding a raffle. Tickets will be available from families of Scouting members after Feb. 18. The draw will be held in April at the Kub Kar Rally, and the prizes are really cool! First prize is a Senator's sweater, and the winner will have a choice of home or away, choice of player and number, and the player he or she chooses will autograph it. Second prize will be a year's membership to an auto club, and third prize is an Avon basket.

Festival update to be given at public meeting

BROCKVILLE ­ A public information session on the Festival of the St. Lawrence initiative will take place Monday, Feb. 24 at 7 pm at the Brockville campus of St. Lawrence College.

The meeting will include an update on the plan to create an annual arts and music festival in the St. Lawrence corridor from Kingston to Cornwall.

Interested parties such as business groups, sponsors and volunteers will have a chance to express their views on the initiative, which began last year and is based at the college's campus in Kingston.

The festival initiative meeting, to be held in Room 114 of the Parkedale Avenue campus, will run until about 8:30 pm; refreshments will be served following the meeting.

For more information, call 345-0660, ext. 1359 or send an e-mail to info@slfestival.on.ca.

Augusta interim taxes are due at end of March

MAYNARD ­ Interim taxes in Augusta Township will be due March 31, according to a bylaw approved by council Monday night.

The first property tax payment of 2003 represents 50 per cent of taxes from the previous year. There is a 1.25 per cent penalty per month for late payments. Taxes can be paid at the municipal office in Maynard or a financial institution.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I miss the old farm and my friends back there..."

Cardinal native Bessie Lamson, who celebrated her 104th birthday Feb. 8

Editor's Notebook

WATERFRONT PLANNING NEEDED: With all the attention that has been paid to Prescott's Heritage River Trail the past seven months or so, civic leaders may want to shift their focus somewhat to another waterfront area: the municipal parking lot west of the harbour. With such an impressive harbour and the work that is going into the trail area near Fort Wellington, the time has come to once again consider the future of the municipal dock area that offers parking space but no aesthetic pleasure other than the view of the river and the American side.

While it is true the need for parking may increase as a result of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival to be staged in June and July at the amphitheatre, the fact remains the large paved area is, to many people, a waste of prime land. Although there have been plans in the past, the concept of a park area integrated with waterfront trails to the east and west is no closer today than it was when the harbour was built nearly 15 years ago. Bob Pelda, who owns the "Blue Fence" property on Water Street, has made it clear to town council the state of the parking lot may be factored into his plans to build multi-residential units on his land, perhaps as early as next year.

As much as the town has a number of important projects with which to deal, the waterfront lot will rise to the upper portion of the list sooner than some may expect. It is time to dust off the old plans and ideas and come up with some new ones. If Prescott is to receive government assistance to deal with downtown revitalization, town officials may want to consider applying some of that funding to an under-used property that could make one of this town's main attractions that much better.

METER READING: Although it appeared members of Prescott council had basically come to the conclusion earlier this year parking meters would not return to downtown, the municipality is seeking public input on the meters. In general, civic leaders have acknowledged free parking has not been a windfall to the business community, but returning them now after a year and a half would raise the ire of motorists and the business people who requested the move in the first place. The revenue that will come back into municipal coffers would also produce negative publicity and buck what appears to be a fairly common trend in small towns trying to attract tourists and get people to come back downtown.

Public comments can be submitted (by March 1) to the attention of CAO/Clerk Robert Haller at the municipal office at Edward and Churchill, or by e-mail to rhaller@prescott.ca.

Tim Ruhnke

The sad truth is as plain as the nose on Jacko's face

THE NEW GUY by Tim Ruhnke

As much as I would rather not jump on the bandwagon and bash Michael Jackson, I feel I must climb aboard at least for part of the ride because of a column I wrote a year ago. In that piece of... I mean "piece," I noted Jackson demonstrated in a prime-time television special he could still entertain a crowd. The singer who was probably the most famous and recognizable person on the face of the planet 15 or 20 years ago may not always be playing with a full deck, but Jacko still showed signs of the brilliance he had displayed as a young man.

Upon further review, I would like to alter my take somewhat: Jackson is a troubled and troubling middle-aged man who should not be allowed anywhere near any youngster who does not have the ability to defend himself or herself from such a waste of talent and humanity. There is a difference between eccentric and dangerous, and it has become abundantly clear Jacko could be a threat to the children he claims to love and wants to protect. I can understand how he may want to avoid the media spotlight when it comes to his family and some of his more peculiar and possibly illegal and immoral activities. He may not believe he is doing anything wrong, but even his most ardent fans must admit the guy is a mess and should be isolated from anyone he could influence or control. He deserves to be given a chance to deal with his situation; however, at the age of 44 and after many years of behaviour that would put his staunch supporters to the test, it has become clear the term "certifiable freak" would not be out of line.

Here's hoping the media and the public will soon lose interest in this mess and he gets the support he and the minors around him truly need.

***

The trend of giving teams a point for losing a game in overtime must be stopped. A loss in which the team gets a point is not a tie, plain and simple. It would be a travesty if a team ­ let's say the Edmonton Oilers, ­ got into the NHL playoffs because of those overtime loss points. (At the time this was written, the Oilers had racked up six of those gift points and were near the top of the league in that category).

Even if the Oilers actually earn a spot in the post-season, Dave, the fact they cough it up so much in O/T means pro shops in Edmonton had better stock up for a rush on or about April 15.

Plans call for closure of post office in favour of community boxes

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Feb. 13, 1963

* Leading the school cheers at football and basketball games this year at SGDHS are Fern Deschamps, Beverley Poore, Carol Kemp, Linda Throop, Nancy Kemp, Terry Ann Snyder and Gayle Kemp.

Feb. 9, 1983

* A 30-year-old Prince Edward Island native is the latest addition to the Prescott OPP detachment. Charles MacInnis, currently of Gananoque, is a former freelance writer and park warden at Charleston Lake Provincial Park. He was also involved with the OPP Auxiliary for a year.

* Edwardsburgh Township council has named a street in Johnstown Sutton Drive. The street runs to the community centre from Sophia Street. The road was named in honour of Leonard Sutton, a long-time resident of Johnstown now living at Wellington House who sold a 12-acre parcel of land to the township to be used as a park. Reeve Jim Irving said the land was sold at a good price, and the naming shows council's appreciation to him.

* Augusta Township says the City of Brockville contravened the Ontario Municipal Act when it purchased a 188-acre parcel of land east of DuPont. The city had hoped the land would be home to a municipal dump. Augusta has requested the city to immediately divest itself of the property, otherwise the township will have no alternative but to place the matter before the courts. Township solicitor Barry Laushway is working with Augusta on the issue.

Feb. 10, 1993

* Sonoco Containers (Domtar) will close its Prescott plant in the next few months, putting 16 more people out of work. The company laid off more than 50 employees during a downsizing in August. Manufacturing Manager Craig Young said there is no longer the business to support keeping the plant in operation. Equipment will be re-located to Sonoco plants in Mississauga and Chatham. Sonoco produces composite cans for use in packaging powdered foods, frozen juice and concentrate, grated cheese, cleansers and other products.

* Canada Post has announced long-term plans to close the Prescott Post Office in favour of community mailboxes. None of the office's seven employees are to be affected by the change. Councillor Marion Fortier expressed her shock about the proposal, and called for a public meeting. Canada Post has suggested the installation of between 70 and 90 35-compartment mailboxes situated around town. The Centre Street office would only be used for buying stamps, mailing packages or picking up registered mail. The change is expected to relieve the 130-name waiting list for a post office box.

The lighter side of solitary confinement at Belgrade General

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

Like most bad dreams, which you usually forget, or else your memory puts them in permanent storage a few days after they occur, our bad experiences a few weeks ago at the Belgrade General Hospital have been deleted from our anatomy's hard drive and replaced with a folder titled "How to annoy an old curmudgeon".

One of the few things we enjoyed during our week-long stay at the BGH was the care and comfort provided to us by some of the nursing staff. Maybe it was because she was our admitting nurse in Cell 154 and recognized the seriousness of our delirium when we were being booked, but the care we received from nurse Corrine Cipra was outstanding. She had an excellent read on our condition, even to the point where she sensed that we were claustrophobic and abhorred the thought of having our face covered with a surgical mask or an oxygen mask. Special thanks to you, Corrine, and to the other nurses who saw us as more than just a cranky old eccentric.

*****

Some of the more amusing anecdotes from our confinement included an incident one morning when, after washing our back, our nurse asked if there was anything else we would like. We replied that we would love to soak our feet in a basin of hot water. "Not a problem" was the reply and in short order a towel had been placed on the floor in front of our bed and a large basin of warm, soapy water placed in front of us.

"Ah heaven", we said to ourselves as we deftly squeezed our size 13s into the size 10 basin. By turning our ankles and curling our toes we got them both to fit while our nurse gave us that understanding smile nurses save for patients who have just come through a life-threatening trauma.

Unfortunately at this time our kind lady was asked to assist with a bed patient across the hall and she departed our cell, but told us she would be right back to scrub our toes and dry our feet. Maybe it was because there was a heavy duty canvas curtain drawn across our isolation chamber and staff members couldn't see our predicament, but we wiggled our toes and sloshed our arches for an hour while our bath water went from warm, to tepid, to cool, to uncomfortable, and we had to withdraw our size XIIIs and use what thin strips of towel that protruded from beneath our basin to attempt to dry them and restart the circulation. We hate wrinkled toes!

Apologies were profuse when our nurse swept back into our room about an hour later. To make amends she filled another basin of hot water, soaped, scrubbed and dried our feet and toes with a nursely passion.

*****

We thought the comments about the unappetizing food we received might draw some sort of comment from the hospital administration and it did, but in a much more subtle manner than we could have ever imagined. A day after our column appeared in this space last week we received a letter from the Brockville General Hospital. Upon opening it we discovered it was a bill for $245.00 to cover the cost of a private cell.

Actually, the bill was written in Ontario healthcare bureaucratese and it wasn't until we asked our doctor what "7 Units of Private Active Differential" meant, that we found out we were being charged $25 a day for being in isolation and disrupting the quiet flow of inefficiency that has been introduced at the BGH the past couple of years. One thing about receiving "Active Differential" care is that it sure beats being tied into a lawnchair-type of conveyance and shoved out into the hallway.

*****

We think our BGH vacation would have been more enjoyable if Peter Gzowski was alive and still the host of Morning Side. Like his millions of listeners across Canada for what seemed a lifetime, we considered Peter a friend, even though we had never met. He would have had one of his disarming chuckles back in his era had he been able to envisage moi sitting on the edge of a hospital bed with my feet in a basin of water, engrossed in one of his charming, entertaining interviews.

Sorry, CBC, but your attempts to replace Gzowski and the reformatting of his morning show is just not cutting it and you are probably losing your once faithful audience by the thousands... and please, CBC, a little less of Michael Enleft and his pseudo intellect and his arrogant interviews.

*****

Final word on the BGH topic goes to the drug guys and gals who have to follow hospital procedures. With only a hard bed to sit or lay on and zero space for exercise, along with the cancellation of our medication for arthritic pain in our hips, we were prescribed pain killers to take their place. We could have two Tylenol 3s every six hours, when all we really needed was one every three hours. Nope. We either got two every six hours or none at all. Fair enough we countered, give us the two and we'll take one now and one in three hours. Nope. Tylenol 3 is a narcotic and has to be taken under supervision when dispersed, so when we give you two you have to take them right away while we watch you. Guess which sneaky little sucker won that argument and lived pain-free for a week?

Cardinal native celebrates 104th birthday at Leafs game

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

BURLINGTON - At 104 years young, Bessie Lamson is still having a great time.

Lamson, who was born just north of Cardinal Feb. 8, 1899, is currently living in Burlington with her nephew Bill Miller and his wife Maureen, who are more than happy to have Bessie staying with them.

"She's doing well. I think she's happy and comfortable here," said Bill. "She's sweet, she can't complain."

Lamson added, "They're good to me and I have a lovely room for all my (Toronto) Maple Leaf things. It's home, but not really. I miss the old farm and my friends back there, but at 104 you have to expect it."

Lamson also spends time with her niece, Nancy Karkoulas of Sunderland during the winter months.

"She's been up here for about two years now, and it's pretty much like a home to her," said Maureen. "She's still very spry, and is great to have a conversation with, but she tires out fairly quickly."

Lamson tries to make it back to Cardinal each summer to visit the home where she was born.

"She made it down for a weekend back in August," said Karkoulas. "She's doing well and will definitely be going to her hockey game; that's for sure."

As a guest of Toronto Maple Leafs President, Ken Dryden, Lamson has attended a Leafs home game on or near her birthday for the last five years. This year, she got a chance Saturday to see the Leafs take on the Montreal Canadiens on her birthday; former Leaf, Lanny McDonald presented her with flowers.

"She used to sell hot dogs at Maple Leaf Gardens on weekends back in the '30s, so she got a chance to watch all their games," explained Mrs. Miller. "She has so much memorabilia it's incredible."

Festival committee seeks input for 2003 events

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Community Festival Committee is looking for input from local groups and residents to help with planning the 2003 festivals.

The committee's first meeting of the year will be held Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 7 pm at the Cardinal Village Hall and will discuss 2003 activities as well as elect its new officers.

"We want to get different groups and individuals from the village to come in and give us some feedback on what they want and how they could chip in," said Cardinal Community Festival Committee chairperson Edna Magee. "Traditionally we've had festivals on the July 1 and Labour Day weekends, with groups sponsoring events as fundraisers for their clubs, where people from the community can take part."

Magee indicated the committee wants to know what the community wants in order to continue with the festivals.

"We might not have July 1 or Labour Day festivities; it depends on the feedback," said Magee. "We need to know what the people want; we'll take volunteers, public input and ideas at the meeting."

Gill hitting stride on comeback attempt

SPRINGFIELD - Cardinal native Todd Gill's comeback attempt in the American Hockey League (AHL) has hit a stride as the veteran defender netted his first goal of the hockey season.

Gill marked his first goal Feb. 5 while playing in his fourth game for the Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League on a professional tryout agreement while fighting for a chance to join the Tampa Bay Lightning of the National Hockey League.

Falcons' game summaries credited Gill's strong defensive presence throughout the first four games, while being paired up with a fellow veternan defenceman on the Falcons, Corey Foster from Ottawa.

The Falcons have gone 3-1 since Gill's debut with the Falcons Jan. 29, while the club sits five points out of the final playoff spot in the AHL's Eastern Conference.

Get stuck on stamps tonight at meeting

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Stamp Club will be holding its monthly meeting today, Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 7 pm at the Cardinal library.

The event is organized by John Dugan Sr. For more information, call him at 657-1081.

Councillor shares tips for those seeking election

WARD 1 UPDATE by Peggy Taylor

Well, here we are into the final year of this council term. If you are thinking of running for election, take some time to come out to council and committee meetings. I found that attending meetings prior to the election gave me some insight. Even if you don't get elected, it's not a waste of time.

Also a review of the Municipal Act and the topic of conflict of issue can be of value. Basically, you have a conflict of issue as a council member if you or someone you are married to, or living with, is going to benefit financially from a decision made by council. For example, if you are a member of a council and you own a business and the municipality decides to have your business do work for the municipality with or without putting the matter to tender, you have a conflict of interest at the council table. You are the only one who can determine if you have a conflict. It is not up to any member of council to point it out to you.

The Municipal Act sets out what a council can and can not do. Of most importance to a new councillor is the "in-camera" session. From the conferences I've attended, I've discovered that this is probably one of the most abused sections of the act.

In addition to those matters listed in an article I wrote during my first term, there is a new item that may be (but is not required to be) discussed in closed session. Prior to 2003, "disposition of property" was required to be discussed in open session. The act was amended to allow municipalities to include disposition of property under the in-camera headings.

What is important to remember is that if a matter is discussed in-camera it has to be listed in the act. If a matter is not listed in the act, then it should not be discussed in-camera and no member of council may be required to keep it from the public. It is the responsibility of the mayor to ensure that in-camera is not abused.

Basically, what is said in-camera is to be kept in-camera if the act allows it to be discussed in-camera. The public has a right to know how a municipality is being operated on a general level. Municipal governments are not allowed the same level of secrecy as our provincial or federal governments. At the same time, municipal meetings are not required to be recorded verbatim. This leaves the press with the responsibility of reporting on discussion. There is no Hansard, and minutes are generally uninformative. Committee minutes tend to hold more content than council minutes.

As a rule of thumb, remember: 1) The mayor decides if a matter is to be discussed in-camera. 2) It does not matter if you are mayor, councillor or employee... legal advice given on any matter should never be shared. 3) Matters relating to private individuals are not the concern of council. Residents have a right to confidentiality when dealing with municipal employees. The role of a council is to set policy, not to address individuals. If you hear a name, put it out of your mind immediately. 4) When a meeting is over, leave. A majority of council members should not be found in a position where they could be discussing municipal issues when a public meeting is not being held.

These are, in my view, the most important procedural issues a new councillor can be familiar with. A lot more will be learned after election.

As Peter Martin has openly declared his intent to run in the upcoming election, this will be my last article. These articles could be viewed as putting others at a disadvantage (or advantage, depending on how you look at them), should I decide to run for election. In any event, I hope that the above is of value to anyone considering running for election this year.

Peggy Taylor is a councillor for Ward One and may be reached at 657-1728 or peggytaylor@ripnet.com.

Jr. B Rangers in do-or-die situation for playoff spot

South Grenville hosts Athens Aeros Saturday in must-win situation

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers are now in a must win situation after
losing 10-5 to the Brockville Tikis Saturday at the Cardinal and District Community
Centre.

The loss allowed the Athens Aeros, with a pair of wins on the weekend, moved three points ahead of the Rangers for the
final playoff spot heading into the final weekend of the season
with two games left to play - including a head-to-head
showdown this Saturday in Cardinal.

The Rangers got out of the gates slowly last Saturday as they allowed Brockville to score early and often to take a commanding lead as three Tikis recorded hat tricks.

South Grenville rallied in the second period as Adam Lawrence netted a pair of goals, while Drew Lawrence, Tyler Libby and Liam Tyrell added singles. Adam Lawrence picked up an assist in the loss.

South Grenville's playoff hopes were complicated last weekend as the Athens Aeros scored a pair of wins to move ahead of the Rangers and force South Grenville to get at least a win and tie in their final pair of games for any chance at the post season.

The Rangers sit with a 18-21-2-1 record, while Athens is ahead by virtue of points from overtime losses with a 18-19-3-3 record.

If a tie in point occurs it will be broken by the results of the season series between the two clubs.

The Rangers will host Athens Saturday at 7:15 pm before travelling to Gananoque Sunday to take on the Islanders at 7:45 pm.

South Grenville wins senior boys invitational tourney

By Dave Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior boys basketball team continued it's recent hot streak taking the title at the fourth annual Senior Boys Invitational at the high school last weekend.

The Giants played well throughout the tournament advancing to the finals where they defeated Sharbot Lake 65-44. Jamie Clarke led the way for the Giants with 18 points, while Mike Ayerst had 14, Curtis Bucking had 10, Dustin Drury had nine and Travis Irvine had eight.

In the semi-finals South Grenville defeated a strong Athens team 62-31 to advance to the finals. The Giants smothered the Athens offence only allowing the Warriors 15 first half points. Ayerst's strong post presence helped him score a game high 17 points, followed by Clarke with 11, Drury with eight and Ryan Delaney with seven.

In their toughest game of the tournament the Giants held on to defeat St. John's 52-42. Clarke had a game high 17 points in the win, followed by Meppelder with nine, Drury with nine and Ayerst with seven.

In their opening game the Giants came out shooting as they had a 27-11 lead at the end of the first quarter and a 56-23 lead at half to eventually cruise to a 90-55 win.

South Grenville used their agility and athleticism up and down the court in transition, as Clarke was able to score 24 of his game high 31 points in the first half. Clarke was followed by Luke Meppelder with 12 points, Drury with 11 points and Ayerst with seven points. All players got on the score sheet, as the Giants made use of passing plays in the transition game to net some easy points.

Clarke was named the tournament's MVP, as well as a first team all-star along with Drury of South Grenville, Justin Thompson of Sharbot Lake, Chris Velez of Sharbot Lake and Kyle McAffrey of Athens.

Rideau Division all-star teams honour three Jr. B Rangers

BROCKVILLE - Three members of the South Grenville Jr. B Rangers organization were recognized for their efforts as the Rideau Division named their 2002-03 all-star teams and award winners.

The Rangers first year General Manager Dennis Van Liut was recognized for his hard work with a spot on the second team all-star squad. Defenceman Chris Curley and goaltender Devin Payne were named to the all-rookie team.

RSL minor bantams fall short of playoff round in Cornwall

CORNWALL - In its final tournament of the year, the
Rideau-St. Lawrence minor bantam Kings AA just missed the playoff round at the
Cornwall International Bantam Tournament.

On Jan. 31, the Kings opened the tournament with a tightly played two-way game which saw the Markham Waxers squeeze out a 3-1 over the Kings, who were missing sniper Joel Haystead-Smythe with a broken thumb.

Peter Roy would score the Kings only goal in the first period, with Eric Van Vliet picking up the assist to tie the game at one. But the Waxers would take advantage of penalties to take a 2-1 lead going into the third, when Markham would add an empty net goal to take the game 3-1.

Clarke Saunders had a solid game in goal returning to form, while Kyle Atkins was named the Kings MVP.

In the Kings second game, RSL would take advantage of strong netminding from Graham Peters for a 1-0 shutout victory over Seneca to keep their tournament hopes alive.

The Kings got on the board early as Tyler Drew finished off a nice passing play from Van Vliet and Bobby Little, which would be all that was needed for the win, as both teams goaltenders would control the play the rest of the game with strong efforts.

Drew was named the Kings MVP.

In their third game, the Kings needed a win over Worchester to advance to the playoff round, but thanks to their speed and good pressure Worcester would hold the Kings at bay for a 4-0 win.

Mike Froom would make a gutsy effort in the game taking a check and falling awkwardly into the boards fracturing his wrist. While in obvious pain, Froom refused to go down and made it to the Kings bench under his own power to complete a line change.

Jason Crooke was named the Kings MVP of the game.

South Grenville teams fare well at atom house tournament

SPENCERVILLE - South Grenville teams fared well at the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association atom house league tournament Saturday in Spencerville.

South Grenville #3 won the tournament's "B" final 2-0 over Smiths Falls, while South Grenville #2 lost the "A" final 3-1 to the South Stormont Wolves.

In the "A" final South Stormont opened up the scoring with a pair of first period goals to take a 2-0 lead over South Grenville #2 before adding a third in the second, before Logan Grant broke the shutout with a third period marker, with Hunter McCarrol picking up a helper.

In the "B" final Jacob Scott led South Grenville #3 to a 2-0 shutout win.

South Grenville opened up scoring in the first period by Rhys Larry, with Michael Lawless picking up an assist. South Grenville added an insurance marker in the third as Cody Patenaude scored, with Quinton Selleck and Taylor Garswood picking up assists.

South Grenville #1 dropped the tournament opener 6-2 to a strong Kemptville #3 team. O.J. Knol and Ryan St. John each had a goal in a losing cause, while Nicholas Thorpe and St. John each had a helper.

South Grenville #2 came out of the gates with a strong performance as they beat Smiths Falls 8-1 to move to the tournament's "A" side. Colman Colpitts led South Grenville #2 with four goals, while Grant with two and McCarrol and Dillon DeJeet added singles. Kyle McNamara (3), Dustin Kester (2), Devin Greengrass (2), Colpitts, McCarrol and DeJeet all had assists.

South Grenville #3 opened their tournament with a hard fought 1-0 loss to Osgoode to send South Grenville to the tournaments "B" side.

South Grenville #4 had a rough game in their opener against South Stormont, coming up short in a 10-0 loss to the eventual tournament champions.

South Grenville #1 had some tough luck as they lost to Smiths Falls in the "B" semi-finals after a shootout was used to break the 3-3 draw. Knol led South Grenville with a pair of goals, while St. John added a single. Thorpe chipped in with a helper.

Matt Walker had a shutout in leading South Grenville #2 to a 3-0 win over Kemptville #3 en route to the "A" finals. Colpitts had a pair of goals to lead the way, while McNamara added a single. DeJeet (2), McNamara and Colpitts all had helpers in the win.

South Grenville #3 was able to rebound from an early 2-0 deficit for a 3-2 win to send them to the "B" finals. Larry had a pair of goals to lead the way, while Patenaude added a single. Gilbert Pankhurst and Larry each chipped in with a helper.

Atom Kings hit losing skid

PETERBOROUGH - The Rideau-St. Lawrence atom Kings travelled to the Liftlock Tournament Jan. 17-18 in Peterborough where the Kings had a tough time against some strong competition.

The Kings opened the tournament Jan. 17 against the Oakville Rangers, with the Kings falling 1-0 in a well-matched game.

Later that day the atom Kings faced off against the London Knights in a rough and tumble game that saw the Knights win 5-1. Derek Froats scored late in the third to put the Kings on the board, with Jordan Moran and Ryan Vincent picking up helpers.

Michael McGahey, Cameron Armstrong, Curtis Van Allan and Lance Hodgson had strong defensive games in the tournament.

On Jan. 19, the Kings travelled to Kanata where they dropped a close match-up 4-3 to the host Blazers.

Eric Morotti, Jordan Moran and Derek Froats each had a goal in the game, while Russell Hinch, Ronald Harrison, Ryan Vincent, Moran and Froats all had helpers.

Tyler Gallinger had a strong game in goal for the Kings.

On Jan. 25, the Kings played the Seaway Valley Rapids with the Rapids able to hang on for a 4-1 win in the first game of a double header.

Vincent had the Kings lone goal, with Lee Charlebois picking up an assist.

The Kings took on Nepean in their second game of the double header with Nepean winning the game 4-1. Josh Pitt scored the Kings' lone goal, with Charlebois picking up an assist.

Michael Lalande had a strong game in goal stopping numerous Nepean scoring attempts.

Peewee B Rangers go 3-0-1

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville peewee B Rangers collected seven out of a possible eight points the past week going 3-0-1.

On Feb. 2, the Rangers hosted the Alexandria Glens where they skated away with a 7-1 win. Cody Haché led the way with a pair of goals, while Nick Francica, Andrew Bernard, Jordan Grootjans, Chris Sherman and Zach Stitt added singles. Payton Williams, Jamie McFarlane, Torin Marcynuk, Dylan Hayes, Chris Noonan, Stitt, Haché, Sherman and Grootjans all had assists.

On Feb. 7, South Grenville travelled to South Stormont where they were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw. Francica scored the Rangers lone goal, with Williams picking up the assist.

On Feb. 8, the Rangers hosted the Alexandria Glens winning a hard fought contest 4-2.

Haché paced the Rangers with a pair of goals, while Bernard and Sherman each chipped in singles. Marcynuk, McFarlane, Hayes, Lavery and Bernard each had a helper, while Adam Wyatt played his third straight solid game in goal.

On Feb. 9, South Grenville visited the Morrisburg Lions coming out with a 3-0 shutout victory. James DeJeet earned the shutout, while Stitt, Sherman and Haché each had a goal. Williams and Haché each had an assist.

SG midgets score 9-3 win

CARDINAL - The South Grenville minor midget B Rangers had a strong showing as they beat the Smiths
Falls Bears 9-3 Feb. 5 at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

The Rangers opened up the game with a pair of goals before heading into the second round with a 2-1 lead.

In the second South Grenville exploded for four goals to take a 6-3 lead in the second, before adding three unanswered goals in the third period for a 9-3 win.

Kurtis Summers and Tyler Halladay led the way with a pair of goals apiece, while Derrick Lavery, Nick Maggio, Kirk Donovan, Matthew Hayes and Nathan Smail added singles.

The Rangers will travel to Kemptville tonight (Feb. 12) to take on the Kemptville 73's at 8 pm.

Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Association volleyball standings

Senior Girls

Schools W L PF PA Pts

SGDHS Giants 14 4 419 354 14

TISS Pirates 10 8 411 385 10

NGDHS Knights 8 9 412 418 8

BCI Red Rams 4 14 354 431 4

Junior Girls

Schools W L PF PA Pts

TISS Pirates 16 2 446 285 16

SGDHS Giants 9 9 378 402 9

NGDHS Knights 9 9 368 363 9

BCI Red Rams 2 16 287 414 2

Atom B Rangers score pair of shutouts

CARDINAL - The South Grenville atom B Rangers inched closer to the Upper Canada League West Division Championship with a pair of victories in recent action.

On Feb. 5, the Rangers hosted the Brockville Warriors at the Cardinal and District Community Centre, where South Grenville secured a 4-0 win.

Ryan Van Stralen led the Rangers with a pair of goals, while Cory Wilson and Kurtis Lavery added singles. Jacob Hayes, Conner Elliott, Ian King, Scott Stephenson, Clark Seymour, Dylan Render, Ben Hutton and Wilson all had helpers in the win.

Richard Joudoin had a strong showing in goal, backstopping the shutout.

On Feb. 9, Mason Williams earned his eighth shutout of the season as the Rangers travelled to Gananoque outscoring the Islanders 6-0.

Render and Hutton each had a pair of goals, while Ryan Hanes, and Wilson each had singles. Hutton, Wilson and Van Stralen picked up assists in the win.

Ranger defenceman Lucas Stitt, Hayes, Hanes and Seymour continued to play a committed defensive game helping out the goaltenders.

The Rangers play their last regular season home game tonight (Feb. 12) against Gananoque at 7 pm at the Edwardsburgh Community Centre.

Sno-pitch event ready to roll this weekend at Frost Festival

PRESCOTT - As part of the Prescott's annual Frost Festival, the ninth annual Randy Kroone Memorial Mixed Sno-Pitch Tournament will be held this Saturday (Feb. 15).

The tournament will feature eight teams of 10-15 players each, with a minimum of six men and four girls on each team.

"The tournament has actually been going on for more than nine years," said Arnie Hitsman. "Randy played in the tournament the year before he died, had a great time in it and it was then decided that it would be named after him."

All proceeds of the event will be donated to the St. Vincent de Paul Hospital Palliative Care Unit.

Teams are asked to place a deposit as confirmation of their participation on a first come, first serve basis.

For more information to register a team contact Arnie "Gomer" Hitsman at home at 925-1900 or at work at 925-5353.

GFGC to hold sixth annual ice fishing pike derby Feb. 22

JOHNSTOWN - The Grenville Fish and Game Club will be holding its sixth annual Ice Fishing Pike Derby Saturday, Feb. 22 in Johnstown.

The derby runs from 6 am until 4 pm with weigh ins at Elevator Bay in front of Bridgeview Marina.

Prizes will be awarded every two hours for the largest pike caught in the previous two hour period, as well as hidden weight prizes will be given out.

Also a bonus prize for heaviest pike of the day will be given with juniors and adults eligible for the same prizes.

There will also be a free perch derby for children 14 and under, and there will be free hot chocolate for children. There will also be an early bird draw Monday, Feb. 17 for a portable ice fishing shack.

Tickets can be bought at Mike's Trail and Tackle, Dad's Gone Fishing, Maynard Store, Spencerville Home Hardware, Village Pantry, Spencerville Hotel or by calling 925-4545.

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