South Grenville is hockey town

Annual tournaments hit the ice this weekend in Prescott and Cardinal

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - It's tournament time again in Prescott and Cardinal.

The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association (SGMHA) major midget and minor midget tournament are set for this weekend.

Players from 32 midget teams across the province and eastern United States will descend upon Prescott and Cardinal this weekend to compete in the tournament with plenty of excitement expected.

"It's exciting for the kids," said SGMHA President Tracy Swan. "It's a memory for them; they can come in and remember playing hockey in front of a big crowd and hearing their name chanted and team cheered on. It's really something special."

Last year's major midget champions the St. Louis Sting, will not be returning to Prescott, but there will be 16 other teams vying for the honour, including the Cambridge midget AAA Hawks, Central Ontario Wolves major midget AAA, 1986 Rochester Americans, Burlington midgets, Kitchener Jr. Rangers midget AAA, Oakville Rangers midget AAA, Toronto Marlboros, Bonnie Castle Kings midgets, Ottawa Valley Titans, Washington Little Capitals midget U17, Kanata Blazers major midget AA, York Simcoe Express, Barrie Icemen midget AAA, Don Mills Flyers, Atlanta Fire and the tournament host South Grenville major midget Rangers.

In the village of Cardinal, teams are still being confirmed for the tournament with former champions the Buffalo Saints signed on for another kick at the can, as well as London Jr. Knights, Kanata Blazers, Ottawa Sting, Don Mills Flyers, Don Cherry's Oshawa Generals, Wexford Raiders, Gloucester Rangers, Sun County Panthers, Richmond Hill Stars, North York Rangers and local teams the Rideau St. Lawrence minor midget Kings, Rideau St. Lawrence major midget Kings and South Grenville Rangers.

"It's really has been a lot of work getting things going," said Cardinal tournament organizer Carolyn Mason. "But after seeing the tournament take place it's all worthwhile. We're expecting a large crowd and a good fun weekend for the players and anyone watching."

Competitive play will begin at 7:30 am Friday morning for the major midgets in Prescott, while the minor midgets start at 8 am in Cardinal. Opening ceremonies will be held Friday at 7 pm in Cardinal and Saturday at noon in Prescott, with the conclusion of both tournaments slated for late Sunday afternoon.

Both tournaments will offer special exhibition match-ups featuring the South Grenville Rangers Thursday night at 7 pm at both the Cardinal and Prescott rinks.

See Sports for more coverage

THIS WEEK

Call an election now, Liberal candidate says

BROCKVILLE ­ The Ontario government should stop delaying and call an election, according to Stephen Mazurek.

In a news release issued Thursday, the provincial Liberal candidate in Leeds-Grenville indicated his displeasure with a decision by the Progressive Conservative government led by Premier Ernie Eves to deliver the provincial budget while the legislature is not in session. Mazurek referred to the move as an example of "...political cowardice to the utmost degree..." and how the government considers itself to be "...one gigantic photo opportunity."

The Liberal candidate went on to state "Mr. Eves is running around our province spending money he doesn't have, promising things to people he can't deliver on, and wasting your tax dollars on his re-election platform." The people of Ontario want real action and real policies like the ones proposed by Liberal leader Dalton McGuinty, according to Mazurek.

The candidate added the government should "have the guts" to call an election now.

Million-dollar mistake pays off for Prescott

PRESCOTT ­ The town has profited from a short-lived windfall.

The province mistakenly deposited more than $1.2 million into the municipality's coffers at the end of January. Town Treasurer Laurie Kirkby told council Monday the province was made aware of the mistake; the error was corrected Feb. 26, a town finance reported noted.

Kirkby indicated the municipality earned interest on the million-dollar mistake while it was in Prescott's account.

Roast beef dinner to be served Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ Friendship Hall on Henry Street West will be the site of another roast beef dinner this Saturday, March 22.

Dinner will be served at 4:30 and 6 pm; take-out orders are available. For tickets, call 925-4784, 925-4957 or 925-4268. There is no guarantee tickets will be available at the door.

Proceeds go to the Friendship Hall Association (Odd Fellows and Rebekahs).

Local artists to take part in exhibition

CORNWALL ­ Members of the South Grenville Guild of Fine Art are taking part in an exhibition at the Cornwall Regional Art Gallery.

The exhibition began March 4 and closes April 10. The gallery, which is located at 168 Pitt St. Promenade, is open Tuesday to Friday; admission is free. For more information, call the gallery at (613) 938-7387 or Nancy Roberts at 342-3036.

Few have declared in early stages of municipal election process

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ There is no rush to get a jump on this year's municipal election campaign.

As of Monday morning, no one had filed papers with municipal clerks in the Town of Prescott or the Township of Augusta. Although the deadline for nominations for the Nov. 10 municipal election is still almost seven months away, candidates are not permitted to actively campaign or collect campaign contributions until nomination papers are submitted.

As of last week, the only person to have filed local council nomination papers was Dick Willis, candidate for councillor in Ward One of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and a former Cardinal councillor.

Ward Two Councillor Peter Martin has announced he will seek re-election. Businessman Robert Pelda has also announced he intends to run for councillor in Prescott.

Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller said an information meeting will be held for those who are interested in running for municipal council in South Grenville. A meeting date has not been set.

In addition to selecting members of each local council, the municipal election will also determine trustees for the district public and Catholic school boards.

Council members and school board trustees serve three-year terms. Edwardsburgh/Cardinal is governed by a mayor elected at large and six councillors, three from each ward.

Prescott is served by a mayor and six councillors, all of whom are elected at large. Voters select a reeve, deputy reeve and three councillors in Augusta.

Each English-language school board trustee represents an area which includes South and North Grenville.

No-smoking rule should apply to all: councillors

PRESCOTT ­ A counties-wide ban on smoking in public places might be a step in the right direction, according to Prescott Councillor Garry Dewar.

The councillor made the comment at a council meeting Monday night. Dewar was responding to a letter from Rideau Valley Diabetes Services. In the letter addressed to Mayor Robert Lawn, Helen McGuire states her organization supports a counties-wide ban "...to protect the health of all residents."

Dewar said he might go for such a ban. Municipal councils in the tri-county area have been asked to consider imposing smoke-free bylaws; no municipality in Leeds and Grenville has opted for a ban.

Dewar reiterated the belief he shares with a number of other members of Prescott council. Any smoking ban should be applied across the entire province and not be left up to individual municipalities. It has also been noted health care services are delivered by upper levels of government.

Zoning amendments affect commercial properties in town

PRESCOTT ­ One zoning change has been approved by Prescott council and another is being considered.

Council gave third reading Monday to a bylaw that would permit residential use of the ground floor of the former funeral home building located at the corner of Edward and Dibble streets. Residential and commercial uses are permitted on the upper floors. Property owner Chi Ho requested the zoning change; council agreed to put forward an amendment to the town's zoning bylaw.

The approval followed a public meeting in which no input was received. CAO/Clerk Robert Haller indicated the town had not received any phone calls or other input from the public.

A second zoning amendment was introduced at Monday's council meeting. Riverside Pontiac Buick is seeking a change to the existing zoning of the dealership's property north of Highway 401 and west of Edward Street. The site of the new dealership location was originally zoned industrial, a designation that permits auto sales and service. Councillor Garry Dewar, planning committee chairman, noted an official plan and zoning amendment approved several years ago as part of a proposed development nearby designates the Riverside property as general commercial; auto sales and service is not listed as a permitted use.

The bylaw introduced Monday would enable a special exception to be granted; this would make auto sales and service a permitted use.

The proposed bylaw will be given third reading at an April 22 meeting of council; a public meeting to receive input on the proposal will take place earlier that evening.

Construction at the site of the relocated dealership is scheduled to begin this spring.

Both zoning amendments are subject to an Ontario Municipal Board appeals period.

Prescott police triumph over OPP in Battle of the Badges hockey game

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Good hockey, tales from the road and the offbeat shenanigans of trumpeter Crazy Claude were what the fans got as they watched Eddie Shack's Battle of the Badges Thursday at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

The Prescott Police hockey team which was made up of a combination of town police, Prescott firefighters and RCMP was able to bust loose early to score some quick goals and keep up the pressure for a 10-6 win over their OPP counterparts.

The crowd of 400 was into the game with Eddie Shack bringing his own unique brand of hockey to the equation, making all players drop to the ice whenever he yelled "Wahoo," and penalizing players with pushups when they missed a penalty shot. Shack was on his game entertaining the crowd and providing exactly what you would expect from "The Entertainer."

"Anyone here who recognizes me from my playing days is obviously showing their age," said Shack. "We're out here to have some fun and raise some money for Prevention Awareness for Life."

At the arena there was never a dull moment as the town police and OPP battled it out, while trumpeter Crazy Claude did his best to entertain the crowd with fight songs and hijinx in the stands, while trying to distract the players with posters of swimsuit models.

The players and coaches from the two law enforcement teams got into the act as well as Prescott Police Chief Bryan Somerville, who coached the Prescott Police team, began taping diapers with OPP players names along the glass.

"Every time we hear them whining about a call another diaper goes up," said Somerville. "We've got to raise the bar."

OPP coach, Senior Constable Gerry Ozon, was quick to return the favour explaining the 5-1 first period deficit to Somerville. "You do realize, we were just spotting you goals, now you better watch out in the second period."

Ozon's team responded with narrowing the lead, but weren't able to finish off the comeback.

"I guess we have some better training throughout the day walking the beat," joked Somerville. "It was fun and the guys got a kick out of it."

Between periods as Shack signed autographs for the youngsters, the crowd was treated to a performance from a group of Timbit Initiation Hockey Players from the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association and a performance by three skaters from the Prescott Figure Skating Club.

Shack enjoys making the cross-Canada tour with the former-NHLers such as Jack Valiquette and Jimmy Mann and visiting with the people. "We get to come out have a little fun, tell some stories and raise some money," said Shack. "It's (the game) keeps us out of trouble, and sometimes gets us into a little as well, but it's worth it."

Shack's partner in crime, Crazy Claude, agreed with the sentiment. "It really looks easy, but it's not. We're on the road everyday away from our families and sometimes it's hard to make the crowd laugh, but when everything comes together it's just great."

Executive Director of Prevention Awareness for Life, Annabelle Williams is thrilled with what the tour has done for the cause. "Over the last three years the Battle of the Badges has raised more than $8,000 a year for Prevention Awareness for Life," said Williams.

"We run about six shows a year for PAL and each one brings in more than $1,000."

PAL is an organization which assists children and youth through outreach education to develop awareness and skills required to make positive lifestyle choices. Among the programs PAL helps to fund is the widely popular VEP program throughout public schools in Ontario.

Employment life support is available from regional training board

March 25 workshop aims to motivate, build confidence

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Help is on the way for workers and their families in Leeds-Grenville who have been the victims of plant closures and layoffs.

The Lennox and Addington, Frontenac, Leeds and Grenville (LAFLG) Training Board is undertaking an initiative to help members of the community make employment adjustments.

Funding for the support project has been provided by the Adjustment Advisory Program of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, said LAFLG board of directors Co-chair Todd Gervais, noting the growing need for employment adjustment support in the community.

A motivational workshop will be provided to workers (employed and unemployed) and their families by the Smiths Falls firm of Barratt and Associates. The workshop, "Conquering Stress and Harnessing Fears," is scheduled for next Tuesday, March 25 at 7 pm. No pre-registration is required for the free session at the Prescott Legion hall.

The "Make This Your Decade" series of workshops in the region will help individuals and their families address the stresses and fears that come with employment change and build confidence and motivation for making the transition, Gervais explained.

The LAFLG Training Board is a non-government, non-profit corporation that is governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of local representatives from business and labour, as well as representatives from racial minorities, persons with disabilities, women, Francophones, trainers and educators.

Each year the training board is responsible for conducting local area research, producing a local area plan, completing a local inventory of programs and services and working with other organizations. For more information on the workshops or the training board, contact Barratt and Associates at 1-800-679-1856, or visit www.workforcedev.ca.

Success Profile

Terry Peacock, chief building official of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal township, succeeded in his career choice by identifying his goals and pursuing them in stages, according to the training board.

Previously enjoying a position as a building official in another municipality, Peacock began to question his role and the future of his job over time - questions that arose after changes in the job environment caused in part by municipal amalgamation. After much thought and apprehension, he decided to take a pro-active attitude toward attaining his career goal.

First, he assessed his situation. Although an expert in the building trade with a variety of skills, Peacock felt he should complete his Grade 12 to become more versatile in the work force.

He began his Grade 12 studies, and during a computer training course, discovered an on line job posting for Care Canada - a humanitarian relief organization. This, he discovered, would be an opportunity to apply his talents and expertise while giving back to humanity.

In Albania, he supervised and managed the rebuilding of 12 schools that were damaged through neglect and war. In addition to the rewarding work experience, Peacock was able to assist one of his Albanian colleagues and his family to relocate to Canada, and he remains an advocate for many Albanian families looking to immigrate to Canada. Peacock returned to Canada, obtained his Grade 12 diploma, and began operating a marina.

With his previous knowledge and skills added to the expertise he gained abroad, Peacock has become a recognized international expert in the repair, rehabilitation and maintenance of schools and other structures, the training board explained in a release.

Calling all United Empire Loyalists

MALLORYTOWN ­ The annual meeting of Col. Edward Jessup Branch of the United Empire Loyalists Association of Canada will take place Saturday, March 29 at Front of Yonge Community Centre in Mallorytown.

The get-together starts at 11:30 am. A beef dinner will be served at noon, followed by the meeting. The guest speakers will be John and Kay Chesser, authors of In Consequence of Loyality.

For tickets or more information, contact Fraser Carr at 925-4930 or fraser.carr@ripnet.com.

Town awards infrastructure contracts

Water/sewer business plan, new north-end road in works

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has agreed to award two contracts associated with infrastructure projects.

Council voted Monday to proceed with a water and sewer business plan and road layout for access to the commercial park located north of Highway 401 and west of Edward Street.

In the case of road layout, Town Engineer Clyde Solomon invited three consultants to submit proposals. The low bid of $8,150 submitted by Genivar (Kostuck Engineering) was recommended by Solomon and accepted by council. The other firms to submit proposals were Ainley Group and Eastern Engineering.

Three bids were also received for the water and sewer business plan. The transportation and environmental services committee interviewed the bidders, Solomon notes in a report to council.

Environmental Services Ltd. (ESL) submitted the low bid of just under $35,000. Ainley Group/C.N. Watson was next at $44,800, followed by R.V. Anderson/Allan & Associates at just under $53,800.

ESL "...seemed to offer the greatest confidence and better product and practical tools for implementation and continued use" in addition to being the low bidder, according to Solomon. Council agreed to award the contract to ESL.

Town CAO/Clerk Robert Haller told council the company has the ability to focus on utility management and has a forecasting tool the town can apply to other municipal operations.

Provincial regulations make it mandatory for municipalities to complete water and sewer system business plans to ensure self-sustainability now and in the future, Solomon noted in his report.

As for the access road in the north end, Councillor Garry Dewar noted the planned intersection at Edward Street will be north of the entrance and exit to the westbound 401. There will be no immediate need to install traffic lights at the new intersection unlike at Prescott Centre Drive, according to Dewar.

Riverside Pontiac Buick is planning to build a new facility at the north-end location later this year.

Breakfast launches cancer society drive

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The local branch of the Canadian Cancer Society will launch its 2003 fundraising drive later this month.

The Cardinal, Augusta, Prescott and Edwardsburgh (CAPE) branch will hold its campaign kick-off breakfast Thursday, March 27 from 7:30 to 8:30 am at Bridgeview Restaurant in Johnstown. All are welcome to attend; tickets can be purchased at the door.

Agricultural Society holding first annual Beach Party

SPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville Agricultural Society will be holding its first annual Indoor Beach Party Saturday, March 29 as a fundraiser for the Spencerville Fair.

The party runs from 9 pm until 1 am at the Drummond Building in Spencerville.

The public is asked to wear their beach clothes with a chance to win prizes for being the best dressed or by doing the hula-hoop, limbo or performing rendition of a Beach Boys song in karaoke.

The party is one of the agricultural society's largest fundraisers for the year for the Spencerville Fair which gave out more than $30,000 in prizes last year.

The beach party will also feature live country and rock music from local trio "The Posse."

Bass player/singer, Jamie Moore, lead guitar/vocals Brent Coville and Brian Healey drummer have been together for four years performing songs from such artists as Garth Brooks, Alabama, Creed, The Tragically Hip, The Doors, Poison, Eric Clapton, Eagles, Johnny Cash, Credence Clearwater Revival, Bryan Adams, Lonestar, Buddy Holly, Eddie Rabbit, Joe Diffie and John Cougar Mellancamp.

The trio has made several local appearances as well as travelling to Toronto, Oshawa and Montreal to perform.

Tickets are available at the door the day of the beach party or in advance at The Maynard Store, Spencerville Home Hardware, Drummond's Gas Bar in Spencerville, Country Charm in Domville or by calling Carol Cole at 925-4304.

Emergency plan needs to be fast-tracked: co-ordinator

Augusta and other municipalities required to meet April 2004 deadline

MAYNARD ­ The emergency management co-ordinator for Augusta is urging the township to proceed quickly with the development and implementation of a new emergency plan.

Lindsay Penney, also the township's deputy fire chief, told council at its meeting March 10 time is of the essence to ensure the plan is in place to meet the provincial deadline of April 2004.

"We've got a lot to do," Penney said, adding the plan doesn't just require simple updating and rewriting. "They're asking quite a bit of us," he said in reference to the government's guidelines.

Ontario's new Emergency Plans Act sets out regulations for municipalities to deal with emergency situations - whether caused by nature, accidents or malicious acts - that are beyond the scope of on-duty municipal staff, explained Penney, who recently attended a regional one-week training session in Brockville. In light of recent history, such as the 1998 ice storm, the millennium Y2K issue and the Sept. 11, 2001 acts of terrorism in the U.S., Penney said the provincial government is restructuring how it deals with emergencies.

Municipalities must set up an essential emergency management program. Plan content is the responsibility of individual communities, he added. The township's program must examine problems it foresees in its own jurisdiction and develop plans to deal with them.

Among the township's first responsibilities is to form a committee of residents, emergency personnel and businesses to provide input into potential hazards in Augusta and establishing an emergency operations centre. An information officer must be selected, a public awareness program needs to be developed, and training provided to municipal staff. Annual reviews and exercises must also be completed, Penney said.

Deputy Reeve Doug Barton felt it would be beneficial to have the township's industry representatives from Nitrochem, DuPont and Ultramar on the committee for their knowledge and background of the companies' own emergency plans.

Roads Superintendent Fred Leonard suggested the plan include information on the nearby Ogdensburg airport, since a plane crash could put public safety at risk.

Replacement program leaves legacy of trees in Augusta

MAYNARD ­ Augusta's three-year tree replacement program has come to an end, providing the township with a lasting legacy of healthy trees for the future, a forest technician with South Nation Conservation Authority informed council March 10.

In an update on the process, Ed Kupczyk said the $24,000 program funded with federal and provincial money and administered by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Municipal Affairs and Housing was designed to maintain Augusta's trees damaged by the 1998 ice storm.

During the past three years, 91 trees were trimmed and 18 were removed. In addition, nine saplings and 12 larger trees were planted and were mulched, staked and guarded, he said. One hundred saplings were given away to township residents at public education sessions held last spring on tree maintenance and care.

Kupczyk recommended the township continue the replacement and management program on its own. "A small amount goes a long way," he said, noting trees contribute significantly to carbon absorption from the air.

Deputy Reeve Doug Barton credited former Augusta councillor John McCrea with initiating the township's application for program funding in the "worthwhile affair."

Kupczyk noted Augusta was the only municipality in Leeds and Grenville to participate in the program.

OPP NEWS

VCR, printer taken from residence

AUGUSTA ­ A VCR and computer were reported stolen from a home on 6th Concession, according to Grenville County OPP.

The owner of the residence arrived home at about 12:25 am March 11 and found a door had apparently been kicked in. The printer is a Hewlett Packard.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Marty McConnell at the detachment in Prescott (925-4221).

Hitchhiker busted near police station

PRESCOTT ­ An 18-year-old Spencerville man was arrested after being found hitchhiking in the north end of Prescott.

OPP Constable Kavanagh observed the man on Edward Street March 16 at about 10:30 pm. The suspect is known to the officer, according to a police news release. The man had in his possession a small quantity of what is believed to be marijuana.

The man was arrested for failing to comply with an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in Brockville court in April.

Results indicate alcohol was a factor

PRESCOTT ­ Alcohol was a factor in a fatal crash that left one person dead and three others injured late last year, according to Grenville County OPP.

The two-car collision occurred Dec. 18 on 2nd Concession just west of County Road 15 near Maitland. One of the drivers, Michael Lamothe, 31, of Mallorytown, was killed.

The passenger in his car, Crystal-Dawn Miedema, and two occupants of the other car, Jason Brydges and Amy Ralph of Augusta Township, sustained serious injuries.

A published report indicated earlier this month alcohol was a factor in the collision. Constable Holly Howard, community services officer at the Grenville detachment, said tests done after Lamothe's autopsy confirmed alcohol was involved in the crash. The constable told The Journal she could not release further details and the investigation is closed.

Police indicated speed was also determined to be a factor in the collision.

File by end of April if taxes owed

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Avoid a late-filing penalty by submitting income tax returns by the end of April.

Anyone who owes tax money as part of his or her 2002 individual return is required to file on or before April 30. For those who file their returns on paper, a cheque or money order payable to the Receiver General should be attached. The sender's social insurance number should be written on the back of the cheque or money order. Post-dated cheques are permitted; however, interest charges will be applied if the date is after April 30.

Those who file their returns electronically and who received remittance forms with their packages can make payments free of charge at any financial institution in Canada. Cheques or money orders can also be mailed.

For more information, visit the Canada Customs and Revenue Agency at www.ccra.gc.ca.

Emergency personnel try to revive snowmobiler

ROEBUCK ­ A Prescott man died after being found unconscious on a snowmobile trail north of Roebuck Friday afternoon.

Bob Wallace, 67, had been snowmobiling prior to being found by another man at about 3:30 pm. Police, ambulance and fire personnel responded, and attempts were made to resuscitate him. Wallace was being airlifted to Brockville General Hospital when he was pronounced dead.

His snowmobile was found stuck in waist-deep snow, according to Grenville County OPP.

An autopsy revealed Wallace died of natural causes.

A funeral service was held Tuesday at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. Wallace is survived by his wife Hazel, a son and daughter and two grandchildren.

Different styles being used by parents

Submitted by Elizabeth Knapp, Ontario Early Years Resource Consultant

Raising a child to become a caring member of society is a difficult job. There are many factors that affect how we parent our children. Our parenting styles tend to emerge without us even realizing we have a style. Our personal beliefs, the way we were raised, our cultural background, and lifestyles all play important roles in determining our approach to parenting.

Often, both parents are coming together with two different sets of experiences. In many cases, dealing with a child's behaviour can lead to disagreements with our partners.

According to information provided by Sunburst Communications Inc., there are three main parenting styles that have been recognized: authoritarian, permissive and respectful.

An authoritarian parent wants to maintain control. If you can hear yourself saying, "Do it because I said so" or "If I don't control the kids, the kids will not be able to control themselves," you could be a parent who takes an authoritarian approach to parenting.

The problem with this type of parent is when the parent holds all the control, the child does not learn to think for himself, to trust himself, or learn how to develop self-control.

The other side of the coin is the permissive parent. These parents want their kids to view them as nice and have a hard time setting limits and expectations. A permissive parent strikes to be a friend to their child and has trouble enforcing rules.

Children raised by permissive parent(s) have difficulty taking "no" for an answer as well as taking anyone else's feelings into consideration. Often, other children reject them in social situations.

The last parenting style is the respectful parent. A respectful parent attempts to balance kindness and firmness. There is a level of mutual respect between the parent and the child. A respectful parent takes the time to actively listen to their children and solve problems together.

Children who are raised in this type of setting learn how to discipline themselves.

The role of a parent is to raise a responsible member of society. As a parent, you can't always be there to monitor your child's actions; all you can do is give them the tools to make good choices.

If a parent can teach a child to self-regulate their actions, they have given their child a wonderful gift.

If you would like to learn more about parenting, the Ontario Early Years centre will be presenting a workshop ("Positive Parenting") April 24 from 6:30 to 9 pm in the community kitchen at O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer in Prescott.

To register for the workshop, call 925-4975 or 341-9044.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"...They can come in and remember playing hockey in front of a big crowd and hearing their name chanted and team cheered on."

Editor's Notebook

When friendship counts

We recall some Canadians took offence shortly after the events of Sept. 11, 2001 when U.S. President George Bush seemed to indicate England and not Canada was America's best friend. It was perceived by some to be a slight on the part of the president; after all, it is Canada that has been by America's side literally and figuratively over the years. Now that Prime Minister Jean Chretien has announced Canada would not take part in an attack on Iraq that is not supported by the United Nations Security Council, it has become clear the British will bolster their "best friend" status in the eyes of the American government and a large segment of the American people.

How this alliance will affect U.S.-Canada relations in the weeks and months ahead remains to be seen. Any real friendship should be able to withstand disagreements based on philosophy or actions, as long as friends know they will support each other when the chips are down. Canada wants most of the same things desired by its neighbour to the south, but is not in a position at this time to support the proposed means by which the U.S. seeks to force change. Canada appears to be prepared to support the so-called war on terrorism, but is unwilling to join American forces in removing Saddam Hussein from power. Canadian military personnel and equipment in place near the flashpoint of this imminent war remains in harm's way, a fact we as a nation must not lose sight of as the invasion nears.

Canadians can continue to disagree on what to do about Iraq; in the end, history will pass judgement on our actions and those of other nations. We can speak out for or against our government's position and those of some of our traditional allies, but we must not forget there are Canadians who are serving their country and their world at a time when they may be at risk of bearing the lethal wrath of forces beyond our control. As each of us tries to reconcile the events of the day and the fear of a conflict that may have ramifications we would rather not contemplate, we should take time to offer our moral and spiritual support for the men and women who are about to pay the price for the inability of governments and cultures to deal with one another.

As for the friendship between Canada and the United States, true friendship can withstand a great deal. As our thoughts and prayers focus on those in harm's way, we also hope there will soon come a time when our differences on the war will be overshadowed by our similarities and a common desire to avoid squandering the gift of life we have all been given.

Tim Ruhnke

A little mad money - but I was glad to be home in Prescott

Now that was a March Break to remember. A few days off work and I was steeped in a nearly-continuous game of Monopoly, cool snow forts, wicked snow ball fights, hot wienie roasts, shopping (yeah, lots of shopping), long evening walks, extra doses of laundry and dishes (enough to make one wish to get back to work), comforting reading and disaster homemade pizzas.

Ah... the leisurely life of vacation days. Part of what made those days so great was having a little extra mad money - courtesy of the government. I can't complain about Revenue Canada these days - my income tax refund arrived within the promised two weeks (six working days to be exact), and it was so easy to file by just picking up the phone and punching the right numbers for about 20 minutes.

It's hard to believe such a simple system works: do the calculations and pick up the phone. I never count my chickens before they hatch, or in this case, until the cheque is in the bank, because there are some surprises I just don't need. So this was one pleasant surprise.

It wasn't too many years ago I waited up to 10 weeks for an income tax return in the mail, or paid somebody else to complete the return for me and give me the money because I couldn't wait. Nice to know some government systems actually work.

Those long evening walks during the break and prior were made enjoyable by the neatly-plowed walkway through Centennial Park. Great job, town, on creating a winter wonderland path. A star-studded sky, frosty, clear night-time air and twinkling lights from the Coast Guard completes a perfect scene in one of the most picturesque parks around.

The grand finale to the week was the annual family skate party at the Prescott arena. After the change of grocery store and ownership in town, I wondered if this tradition would continue. It did, and congratulations to O'Reilly's for staging this fine show for families.

And one more pro-Prescott tidbit. I spread some of that mad money around in other neighbouring communities, but I came home to purchase an electronic item that, for me, was substantial. And I'm glad I did. Check out the Prescott businesses next time you're in the mood to shop.

CPR starts track removal, dangerous subway on the way out

FROM THE ARCHIVES

March 18, 1943

* Advertisement for CN and CP: 150,000 railway workers report to Canada at war! Last year, we hauled 150 million tons of materials, foods and munitions - double the pre-war traffic. We carried 20 million new passengers - fighting men and war workers. We built tanks, guns, shells, ships. Twenty-two thousand of us were with the armed forces of our country. Now, we are busier than ever providing the mass transportation that only the railways can furnish. The country depends upon us to do this job. We must move the troops. We must handle freight. And, with your co-operation, it will be done. If possible, avoid travel over weekends and holidays.

March 19, 1953

* With 470 pupils already registered for the 1953 term and a definite possibility of that number increasing to close to 700 for the 1954 term, a second public school will be required, the Board of Education has decided. The potential sites are a five-acre tract north on Park St. E. between Prince and Duke streets, and a municipally-owned property known as the former fair grounds north of the CN railway.

* With the regular playground area at the public school a sea of mud, permission is being sought from the town to close off a portion of Hyde Street during recess and noon periods, permitting children to play outdoors on the roadway.

March 20, 1963

* Construction of new sidewalks and the extension of Churchill Road West to eventually link up with Sophia Street are 1963 projects of the public works department, Chairman Hilliard Tremblay reported. Churchill Road will be extended westward to open up potential industrial sites.

March 21, 1973

* Canadian Pacific has finally begun removing track from the Wexford Subway area and loading it onto flat cars. The work means a speed-up of the entire improvement project. Once the subway is removed, construction crews can continue eastward with the last link of sewer lines. Paving the widened roadway is planned for August.

March 23, 1983

* Augusta Reeve Carl Polite has stated the township gave formal notice it is taking the City of Brockville to court over a dispute dealing with the location of a dump site. The battle between the two municipalities began last year when the township council discovered Brockville had decided to purchase 188 acres near DuPont to be the site of a future landfill.

Same old-fashioned winters: it's just we're better prepared

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

We often wonder if this fixation most of us seem to have about the weather is exclusively a Canadian thing, or if it is the prime topic of discussion in any other country in our shrinking world. We used to be able to observe this prime topic of conversation from afar, noting how just about every conversation opener included a question or comment on the weather. We thought it a peculiar and maybe just a parochial thing that we used to substitute for intelligence until we found ourselves doing it this winter.

Our reliance on an oxygen hose up our nose on a 24/7 schedule during the winter months limited our excursions from the comforts of the Graceland Suite at 44 Alta Vista to, at the most, two quick trips a week from home to auto and vice versa. Even those days when we had no plans or intentions in braving the elements, our first question in the morning to Miss Maggie or Nurse Beth, depending on which one was watching the weather channel at 6:30 am, would be ­ "what's the weather like today, gonna be another cold one?"

So innate was the question in the darkness of a January morning, that we didn't even pay any attention to the answer, whether it was a "yarp, yarp" from MIss Maggie (translated from the original yorkshirese) which means "I'm glad I'm not a brass monkey; or a ­ "another cold one" ­ from Nurse Beth.

Having had plenty of time to analyze why we had succumbed to the Canadian weather fixation over the past four months, we've come to the conclusion that Canadians are about as aware of their weather fixation as they are of that old Canadian suffix of "eh?" that ends almost every spoken sentence in this country.

To answer the most popular question of 2003 ­ "boy, this has been one of those old fashioned winters we used to have, eh?" ­ we deduct that it was probably worse, arguing that what many people think were long, cold, snow-filled winters of days of yore, were no worse than what we have seen the past decade.

The main difference is that we are better prepared to cope with the snow and ice and cold temperatures than we were 50 or 60 years ago. We have an abundance of mechanical snow removal machines and for the next decade or so, an endless supply of road salt.

We don't think there is one home in Prescott in this century that is heated by old wood or coal burning furnaces, stove pipes and hot air registers that used to perforate the second stories of houses from 1850 to 1950, or later.

Today, our energy efficient, well insulated homes are heated by gas, oil or electricity, and a relatively small number by new-fangled wood burning contrivances. Today it is much easier to adjust the thermostat on the wall, up or down, to suit our comfort, than it was 60 years ago to throw another block of elm or a few more shovels of coal into the old cast iron furnaces down in the cold, dark cellars.

We have forgotten how much easier it is in the year 2003 to introduce increased heat to our living space by adjusting a thermostat one-quarter of an inch than it was to split an armful of cedar kindling each morning and slowly nurture its flames to ignite larger pieces of split hardwood so that two or maybe three rooms became toasty warm as temperatures climbed slowly above the 32-degree range.

Today, instead of laying in a generous supply of hardwood and cedar in the woodshed or cellar in preparation for five or six months of winter, our preparations are only as strenuous as ordering a fill up of furnace oil or changing the filter in the gas furnace.

Another thing that has duped us into thinking that the weatherman is playing with a reduced deck today, is the efficiency of our snow removal equipment. Today if we get a foot of snow in a December storm we expect the roads to be cleared and bare and the sidewalks plowed almost immediately. A 12 hour wait to have your rural road cleared means a confrontation and charges of incompetence at the next township council meeting.

In 1940 such a storm might have meant a blocked country road for a month or possibly all winter. In such cases farmers used their heavy teams and sloop sleighs to carve out their own roads across fields and through woodlots to the nearest village.

It was common to hear stories that the snow had drifted as high as the telegraph and phone lines out in the boonies, which closed communities off until giant snowblowers or bulldozers could be borrowed from the cities to carve out a tunnel-like path along a concession road.

In towns like Prescott snow was plowed to the sides of the street and left in ever-growing banks to be removed in the spring by the sun.

Merchants along King Street had to shovel their own sidewalks, which included a tunnel through the bank deposited by the snowplow which, by the way, was just a solid state plow mounted on the front of a truck, with no wing attachments and certainly no salt box.

In Prescott, up until about 1950, homeowners were compelled to shovel their own sidewalks in residential areas. Failure to do so meant the town would have part of their work crew do it, and add the bill to your taxes. Walking was the main mode of transportation in 1950, with only about 10 per cent of the residents owning cars.

Next week we'll deal with a variety of snow removal contraptions that helped make winters long and tiring. If you have any memories or suggestions, give us a call at 925-4828.

VON needs local funding for services

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

The Editor;

Recently, the local VON received great news from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. A sum of $104,272 will be added to our VON Community Support Services annual budget. This allows us to retain and make permanent two temporary positions that we had secured for one year through the HRDC Job Creation Program. This allows us to have two staff working out of each of the rural sites (Prescott, Athens/Portland) rather than one, which certainly will assist us in serving the rural communities more effectively. We will be starting two new programs: Home Help (dusting, cleaning etc.) and Home Management (grass cutting, snow removal, window cleaning etc.).

This good news funding has created much confusion for the community. I will try to clarify.

Many have asked if this new funding means the VON will not need to accept donations, fundraise, etc. No, the higher the ministry annual funding the higher the local funding contribution required for the overall budget. The VON, through the local community, is expected to provide 15 per cent of the community support services budget. That means this year we need to secure a minimum of $90,000. The figure may be much higher. We will know the actual figure by mid-April. The United Way of Leeds and Grenville has allocated $30,000 to the VON for 2003; the United Way of Lanark will announce its dollar contribution by April 1. We are seeking funding from the local municipalities, united counties, service clubs and will continue to fundraise.

The VON Community Support Services in Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry receive 15 per cent of their annual budget (over $100,000) from their united counties.

We will continue to work diligently to secure the 15 per cent. We will continue to provide services to residents across the Brockville, Leeds and Grenville area. The ability to expand services to others not currently receiving VON services and to implement new services will be dependent on the ability to secure funding through united counties, the City of Brockville, service clubs, donations and fundraising.

We are committed to serving the residents of our community.

Ruth Kitson
Executive Director

SCHOOL SCENE

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL: We welcome the nice spring weather and hope all students, staff and their families had a wonderful, relaxing March Break!

Just a reminder that the Grade 7 and Grade 8 Literacy/Numeracy programs continue to run every Tuesday and Thursday after school. There is still room available, so please check with your child's teacher to enrol your son/daughter into the program.

We congratulate all grades 4 to 6 students who participated in our recent MS Read-a-Thon campaign. Our school raised almost $1,500 for this worthwhile cause. Congratulations to Ms. Morris' Grade 6 class that read the most books. Her class also collected the most money.

On Thursday, March 20, students in grades 7 and 8 will be participating in a school-wide science fair. The science fair will display months of research and observations that the students have collected by completing many experiments. The fair will take place in the school gymnasium. We welcome many DuPont employees for judging this year's fair for us. Winners will advance to the Rideau St. Lawrence Science Fair in Brockville April 5.

Congratulations to our students of the week: Kevin Cummings, Lisa Whitney, Michael Toohey, Troy Merkley, Hallie McFarlane, Jonathan Kinch, Joshua Baker, Katie Allard and Krista Landon.

ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL: Our entire school and church community continues with our second week of our lenten journey. We are reminded to persevere and that each step we take is of utmost importance on our journey.

On Monday, March 17, we wore our green to school and wished everyone a Happy St. Patrick's Day!

St. Mark Catholic School council bylaw committee met Monday in order to continue our bylaw revisions.

Tomorrow is the first day of spring! Happy spring to all of our readers; it has been a very long winter. We look forward to some wonderful spring weather in order that we can get out and use our new backyard.

Our All Star Reading Strategies this week are: Kindergarten ­ Book Awareness Strategies ("I like it. Let's read it again/You read then I read./Look at the pictures."); Grade 1 ­ Ways to Respond ("Act it out"); Grade 2 ­ Unstuck Strategies ("Skip ­ it"); Grade 3 ­ Unstuck Strategies ("What's the sound/What's the letter?").

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

Planning begins for summer parks program in Maitland

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

Plans are under way for spring and summer programs in Maitland. Swimming lessons, summer parks program and soccer are all being offered. If you would be willing to host swimming lessons in your pool this summer, call Tina Atcheson at 348-1894 or e-mail her at pierre_tina@ripnet.com.

The Summer Parks Program will be offered again by MERC. The MERC Board is looking for volunteers to sit on a committee to plan and organize this program. This is your opportunity to have input into this important summer program and help enhance the summer for Maitland children. If you would like to help, call Marilyn at 348-3125.

Registration for soccer will be held at the Maitland hall Saturday, April 5 and 12 from 10 am to noon. The program is for children ages 4 to 13. This year's conveners are John Wilson and Al Peters. If you have any questions or are unable to attend the registration sessions, call Wilson at 348-3563 or Peters at 348-7189.

March 20 is the deadline for cookie and muffin dough orders for the Maitland Public School fundraiser. This is the school's major fundraiser, and the community's support is important. This year as well as the MacMillan dough, munchies such as wings and meatballs are also available. If you would like to place an order, call Faith Allingham at 348-3956. Delivery is April 7.

Friends challenge Friday

BROCKVILLE ­ Upper Canada students will participate in a "Circle of Friends Challenge" this Friday, March 21. The event involves students joining hands in the spirit of friendship against racism and violence. For more information, call Global Education Committee Chair Sheila Fawcett, who is the principal of Centennial '67/North Edwardsburgh public school, at 658-3114.

Range of activities offered

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

Walker House is a drop-in centre for adults. The programs we offer reflect the interests of the members. The following programs are offered each week: Monday ­ ball exercise, bridge; Tuesday ­ coffee, ladies snooker, Scrabble, crafts, weaving, cribbage; Wednesday ­ art studio time (some instruction); Thursday ­ ball exercise, quilting, crochet, euchre; Friday ­ pepper (bid euchre). Special events include lunches, suppers, day trips. Interest groups hold monthly meetings. A small yearly membership is required, and some activities have a small charge to cover expenses and prizes. Call 925-5300 for more information.

With spring just around the corner, the cribbage players are ready for Tuesday night games. On Tuesday, April 1 at 7:30 pm we will have a special "start up" evening. Mark your calendar to come and join us.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Ron Shannon; 2nd, Ruth Wenger; door prize, Geraldine Leclair. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Jean McCrady; 2nd, Eddie Arcand; 3rd, Marie Shahan; door prize, Jessie Shaver.

Council supports water upgrades

COUNCIL BRIEFS By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council voted Monday to support a resolution by the Municipality of Trent Hills to mandate drinking water system upgrades.

The resolution requests that in small municipalities which are made up of multiple centres, the provincial government would recognize the funding burden on the municipality and organize a different approach.

"We're experiencing this in Cardinal with smaller numbers hooked up," said Mayor Dave Dobbie. "It costs us not in the hundred thousands, but in the millions.

The resolution says the government should provide more funding for municipalities in that category and we fit into that."

Councillor Dan McDonald added, "We're not the only ones either; there are probably more than a hundred municipalities in Ontario that fit it."

Township sends off retiree in style

SPENCERVILLE - The Township of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal honoured one of its own Monday night before its regular council meeting.

Members of council and co-workers in the township gathered to honour Jim Wonch, who retired from the township after 22 years of service.

Wonch who was a foreman with the Cardinal Public Works crew worked for the former village of Cardinal from 1981-2000, before becoming an employee for Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

"There's not a lot of people that put in 20 years at one job anymore," said Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie, "yet alone 22."

Wonch was quick to thank his co-workers for the sendoff.

"I have to say thanks to all the guys who worked for me," said Wonch. "And also the Edwardsburgh guys who co-operated with and worked with us. I really enjoyed my time at work, but it's not really a retirement; it's just a change in jobs."

Dobbie added, "Amalgamation is never easy, but it shows that employees that work together and try to make it work, make their jobs a lot easier."

For his time with the township, Wonch was presented with a gold watch.

Something stinks in village

SPENCERVILLE - A sewage-like smell near the South Nation River in Spencerville has council wondering what's causing it.

"We don't know exactly what it is," said Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie. "But we think it is coming from the river."

Mayor Dobbie indicated the Ministry of the Environment, Leeds, Grenville and Lanark Health Unit and South Nation Conservation had been called in to check on the odour.

"There were samples taken Friday," said Dobbie. "We're hoping to get results back sometime mid-next week."

Councillor Bill Sloan added, "But we were told it was not the lagoon."

Churches share Bible readings during lent

CARDINAL - The Proclamation, the fourth annual reading aloud of the entire Bible will be held in Cardinal from March 31 until April 10.

The public reading will begin on March 31 at 4 pm at St. Paul's Anglican Church. The readings will then continue daily from 7 am until 9 am, except April 6 when it will run from 1 pm until 9 pm and the final day when it ends at 4 pm.

The readings will rotate among St. Paul's Anglican Church, St. Andrew's & St. James' Presbyterian Church and St. John's United Church.

The event is sponsored by the Cardinal Ministerial Association and the Canadian Bible Society.

Readers of any age are welcome to participate.

For more information or to volunteer contact Carolyn Hayman at 925-5865.

Gill makes comeback with Blackhawks

PHOENIX - Cardinal native Todd Gill made his first National Hockey League appearance in more than a year as he dressed for the Chicago Blackhawks game against the Phoenix Coyotes March 14.

Gill, sporting the number 46 jersey, played in the Blackhawks' 4-0 win over the Coyotes registering two shots on net as well as Chicago's 3-2 overtime win over San Jose March 17.

These were the first NHL games of Gill's comeback attempt after being called up from the Blackhawks' American Hockey League (AHL) farm team, the Norfolk Admirals, March 13.

Gill had previously played this season on a professional tryout agreement with the Phoenix Coyotes/Tampa Bay Lightning AHL farm team the Springfield Falcons which was coached by former San Jose Sharks teammate Marty McSorley.

The veteran defenceman played 15 games with the Falcons, scoring one goal and six points with 20 penalty minutes and a plus-four rating, while being put on the club's power play.

Community festival committee meeting tonight

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Community Festival committee will be holding its second meeting of the year tonight (March 19) at the Cardinal Village Hall.

The meeting is set to start at 7 pm with more information and volunteers being sought to help with the Labour Day and Canada Day Festivities.

The group is unsure whether both events will run this year, and for how long, and is hoping for opinions from the public to give them an indication what to plan.

New volunteers are also being sought to help plan and run the events at the two festivals within Cardinal.

Those interested in giving their opinion or volunteering with the festival committee should attend the meeting.

Sacred Heart hosts St. Patrick's Day supper tomorrow

CARDINAL - Sacred Heart Catholic Parish Centre will be the host of a St. Patrick's Day ham supper tomorrow (Thursday).

The supper will run from 4:30 pm until 6 pm at the church on Middle Street with ham, casseroles and dessert being served.

Seasonal bloom program begins to blossom

CARDINAL - Cardinal in Bloom will be holding its first meeting of 2003 Monday, March 24 to prepare for the upcoming growing season.

The meeting will start at 6:15 pm at the Lions Den in Cardinal.

The committee plans to continue this year with efforts to beautify the village. Hanging planters and adopt-a-spot gardens are just some of the items on the agenda for 2003.

For those interested in joining or who would like to purchase a commemorative tree to be planted this spring, contact Marj at 657-1764 or Lori at 657-1400.

Good food starts day off right at Benson breakfast program

CARDINAL'S PAST

March 16, 1933

* Rev. Albert H. Barker handed in his resignation as minister of the Presbyterian churches at Cardinal and Mainsville. He has held the charge since Nov. 1925. The resignation is effective at the end of April.

March 21, 1963

* Mrs. D. Baker read the scripture lesson for the general meeting of the St. John's United Church Women. Mrs. J. Robertson led in prayer, and Mrs. A.C. Casselman and Mrs. A. Campbell sang a duet with Mrs. J. Armstrong at the piano.

March 23, 1983

* Construction of the new Canadian Coast Guard aids to navigation, research and development testing lab on Blair Road west of Cardinal is progressing as planned.

Work on the 80-foot by 45-foot building began last fall. Operations at the branch will be devoted to testing, and developing and qualifying of marine aids to navigation.

* The decision to close North Edwardsburgh Public School could be made as early as June, 1984. It had been proposed students in the area of the second, third and fourth concessions of Edwardsburgh township near Brouseville be transferred to Benson Public School in Cardinal. However, this arrangement was unacceptable to parents in the affected area. North Edwardsburgh has been identified by the board as a school to be studied because of declining enrolment.

March 24, 1993

* The Cardinal Ministerial Association makes sure every child attending Benson Public School has the opportunity to start the day off right. Since September it has been providing breakfast to more than 20 children each day prior to classes. The children are provided a breakfast of toast, cereal and juices. Supervising teacher Marilyn Boissoneault says there are many benefits to the program.

Survivor Challenge raises funds for United Way

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE - The United Way of Leeds and Grenville will be hosting its second annual Survivor Challenge July 12 and 13.

The challenge will accept 24 contestants over the age of 19 who have raised more than $300 in pledges. There is a prize for the most amount of money raised prior to the competition.

Contestants will be transported to an undisclosed location to begin their 24 hours of team and individual survival challenges with hourly eliminations.

The lone survivor will win the grand prize of $1,000.

To receive a complete list of rules for the game and to register, visit the United Way office at 42 George St. in Brockville, or call 342-8889.

Rangers hoping for strong showing at midget tourney

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville major midget Rangers will be looking to put on a strong performance in front of their home crowd as they compete in the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association major midget AA/AAA tournament this weekend at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

The Rangers will carry 14 skaters and two goaltenders as well as six associate players they can call on to fill in roster spots.

Coach Chris McFarlane is realistic of his team's chances at the tournament. "We're very conscious of how competitive the teams will be at the tournament," said McFarlane. "Skating is our strength; if we work hard and show up to play we should be able to compete."

The Rangers have had their struggles through the season, but were able to manage a fourth place finish in the regular season before being eliminated against the top team in the league in the playoffs.

"We were around the middle of the pack for most of the season," said McFarlane. "But we had a couple tournaments where we made the semi-finals or finals. We need to start scoring and stay out of the penalty boxes; that has been our biggest weakness all season.

Rangers defenceman Chris Hoogeveen isn't really sure of his team's chances heading in to the tournament. "There's some pretty good teams in the tournament," said Hoogeveen. "I'm not sure whether we can win it all, but we'll do well and keep the scores reasonable. I wouldn't mind winning a game or two."

Coach McFarlane explained more than three quarters of the team had previously played in the tournament in Cardinal and Prescott and should be ready. "I think they're pretty prepared mentally for the pressure the other teams will try to put on us," said McFarlane. "We just need a good effort and to play smart and hopefully win a couple games."

Hogeveen added, "I know what to expect since this is my third South Grenville tournament since I was a bantam, but I'm still excited. I'm just looking forward to getting out there and playing in front of the crowds; they can get pretty big for some of the games."

The Rangers will open the tournament Thursday night with an exhibition match-up at 7 pm.

Minor midget Rangers expect tough competition at AA/AAA

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Rangers are hoping to have a strong showing against some of the top teams in Ontario at the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association's minor midget AA/AAA tournament this weekend.

The team is set for the tournament, carrying nine forwards, five defencemen, two goaltenders as well as three associate players. The team has meshed well together throughout the season and expects a good performance.

"I really hope we do well," said coach Walter Smail. "All our kids are competitive and we've fared quite well against some AA competition."

The club got off to a slow start, but as of late has gelled to post a 9-3-1 record in their last 12 games.

"We've seemed to have more luck in the tournaments," said Smail. "We've been into the finals of every tournament we were in this year and have even won three; let's hope that streak continues."

Some of Smail's players are just as excited to take part in the tournament.

"It's really fun to play in," said Rangers goaltender Ryan Wynands. "It's really well run; I played in the bantam tournament last year in Cardinal and got the experience. It's something you remember."

Smail believes the change in the tournament to minor midget will help his team out.

"With all the kids the same age now after the change to minor midget, everyone will be a little more evenly matched up," explained Smail. "All the guys are pretty equal, as long as we stick to the system I think we'll do alright."

Wynands added, "It should be exciting; I'm sure I'll get to see plenty of shots, because they're all good teams out there, but I think we should do pretty well."

South Grenville will open their tournament with an exhibition match-up against the London Jr. Knights Thursday night at 7 pm at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

EFSC brings the fair to life

SPENCERVILLE - It felt like fall again as the Edwardsburgh Figure Skating Club presented its annual end-of-year ice show Saturday.

The club with its 55 skaters welcomed 45 from the Cardinal Figure Skating Club to join in the festivities to give the hundreds of spectators at the afternoon and evening shows a performance they wouldn't soon forget in "Come to the Fair."

"We invited the Cardinal club to join in and they graciously accepted" said EFSC Vice-President, Sandra Lawrence. "The ice show is always a big deal for the kids and parents and with them only offering a Canskate program we were more than happy to have them."

The club was quick to point out how important the annual ice show was to the skaters and their families. Lawrence indicated the show would be especially important to a pair of skaters which the performance would be their last with the club. "For Jessica Summers and Amber Salmon, this will be their last show," explained Lawrence. "Jessica will be graduating high school and heading off to university, while Amber has decided to give hockey a go next year. The two have been with us for a long time and we wish them all the best and know they will remember the day."

Lawrence indicated the club was happy with their performances at the show, but were disappointed with the numbers in the club as a whole.

"Everyone did really well at the show and all year round, but our numbers were down for a club," said Lawrence. "We're a small club, but we have a lot of heart."

Novice Fire Dogs win another

PERTH - The South Grenville novice Fire Dogs had a strong showing at the March 14 Perth Tournament, winning the 'A' championship.

South Grenville faced off against the Brockville Warriors in the tournament final coming out with a 4-1 win.

Joey Sargeant led the way for the Fire Dogs with a pair of goals, while Spencer Lee and Jesse Boyd added singles. Lee (2), Sargeant, John Wood and Cody Knapp added helpers.

In their semi-final match-up the Fire Dogs scored a 3-0 win over Perth Blue Wings with
Kyle Berry scoring his second shutout of the tournament. Knapp, Sargeant and Matthew Boyd had the South Grenville goals.

South Grenville opened the tournament with a dominant 8-0 win over the Stittsville Redmen as Berry scored a shutout.

Sargeant led all scorers with four goals, with Lee, Knapp, M. Boyd and Trevor Moore adding singles. Lee (2), M. Boyd, Sargeant, Moore, Jesse Boyd, Devin Johnston and Danielle Joudoin each had assists.

In playoff action the Fire Dogs evened their playoff series with North Dundas #1 at one game apiece.

On March 8, South Grenville was able to hang on for a 1-0 win at the Cardinal and District Community Centre with Sargeant scoring the game's lone goal, while Knapp and Moore added helpers.

On March 7, the Fire Dogs dropped the opener of their playoff series with North Dundas #1 3-1 in Winchester. Sargeant
had South Grenville's lone
goal, while Moore added an assist.

Midget house Rangers #2 win tournament 'A' championship

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville midget house Rangers #2 had a successful run March 10 capturing the 'A' championship of the Brockville Midget tournament.

The Rangers opened the tournament against the Nepean Chiefs scoring a 1-0 shutout victory as Robbie Fullarton scored on a breakaway in the second period for the game's only goal. David Code was credited with an assist, while Blake Gobeil earned the shutout.

In their semi-final match-up, the Rangers were able to pull out a 6-3 win over the Kingston Comets to advance to the tournament finals. Fullarton led South Grenville with a pair of goals, while Ryan Fischer, Justin Rust, Ryan O'Brien and Jason Taylor added singles. Fullarton (2), O'Brien (2), David Wallace and Taylor each had assists.

In the tournament final, South Grenville continued with its impressive play by posting a 5-0 shutout over the Nepean Crush.

Blake Gobeil earned his second shutout of the tournament, while O'Brien, Wallace, Code, Taylor and Dustin Polite scored singles. Fullarton (2), Fischer (2) and Taylor each had helpers.

South Grenville peewee Bs win UCMHL east division title

CARDINAL - The South Grenville peewee B Rangers have won the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League East Division by beating Massena in the East Finals March 8 in a best-of-three series.

The Rangers opened their playoffs Feb. 25 against the Cornwall Royals scoring a 5-4 win. Cody Haché had four goals in the win, while Chris Sherman added a single. Payton Williams (3), Andrew Bernard, Nick Francica, Jamie McFarlane, Kyle Lavery, Sherman and Haché added helpers in the win.

On March 1, South Grenville was able to sweep Cornwall out of the playoffs as Adam Wyatt shutout the Royals for a 5-0 win to advance to the East Finals. Haché had a pair of goals to lead the way, while McFarlane, Sherman and Williams added singles. McFarlane (2), Bernard, Sherman, Francica, Torin Marcynuk and Jordan Grootjans each had helpers.

On March 4, the Rangers were able to open the East Finals with a 3-0 win over Massena. James Dejeet earned the shutout, while Haché had a pair of goals and Zack Stitt added a single. Chris Noonan, Grootjans, Stitt and Lavery each had assists in the win.

On March 8, South Grenville clinched the East Division crown as Wyatt scored his second shutout of the playoffs with a 2-0 win over Massena.

Francica and Lavery had the only goals of the game, while Hache (2), Williams and Grootjans added helpers.

'The Row' ready for final flood

PRESCOTT - This year the Row will be taking a slightly different approach to one of the most popular parts of the Prescott major midget tournament.

The Row, formerly the Whiskey Row has been a tradition at the midget tournament since 1973. Every year the group puts on a presentation during the Final Flood, which takes place between the second and third period of Sunday's championship game.

This year the Row will be looking to their comrades who could not be there to help out because of their involvement with the crisis overseas.

"Some of the guys had to go overseas because of the problem there and couldn't be with us this year," said member of the infamous Row, Dino Bologna. "They're doing their part over there, and we'll show what else they're probably doing as well, such as some player development overseas."

Other members of the Row indicated the show may include some of the tall tales from the guys overseas and the people they met along the way and how they taught them about the "Good Ol' Canadian Game of Hockey."

The Row is looking forward to the tournament and its presentation and is sure it will impress.

Boltz play electrifying hockey

KEMPTVILLE - The South Grenville novice Lightning Boltz continued their impressive
season as they won the Kemptville Tournament March 10.

The Lightning Boltz faced off against North Grenville #2 in the final of the tournament scoring a 4-2 win for the championship. Shane Riddell led the way for South Grenville with a pair of goals, while Broydon Stufko and Brett Van Stralen added singles. Stufko, Nathan Hamilton and Cody Adams each had assists in the win.

In the semi-finals South Grenville was able to score a 4-0 shutout victory over the host Kemptville Panthers to advance to the tournament final. Tyson Bertrend had a pair of goals to lead the way, while Riddell and Stufko added singles. Van Stralen added a helper.

In its tournament opener South Grenville had a very strong performance scoring a 10-1 win over the Stittsville Devils. Riddell led all scorers with four goals, while Adams and Stufko each had a pair and Bertrend and Van Stralen added singles. Bertrend (3), Riddell (2), Van Stralen (2), Adams, Hamilton, Stufko and Billy Myers all chipped in with helpers.

In playoff action the Lightning Boltz capped off their first round playoff series with Brockville #2 March 5 with a 4-1 win to advance to the semi-finals to play North Dundas #1. Stufko had two goals in the win, while Riddell and Van Stralen each had singles. Hamilton (2), Adams, Riddell, Adam Norton and Matthew Salmon added assists.

In their semi-final match-up with North Dundas #1 the Lightning Boltz took the series
to the limit before falling March 15 to North Dundas #1 2-1. Riddell had South Grenville's lone goal, while Van Stralen added a helper.

On March 14, the Lightning Boltz stayed alive to tie the series with a 1-0 win over North Dundas #1, as Bertrend had the game's only goal.

On March 12, South Grenville suffered a tough 1-0 loss to North Dundas #1.

On March 8, the Lightning Boltz battled North Dundas #2 to a hard-fought 2-2 draw to open their playoff series. Hamilton and Bertrend had South Grenville's goals, while Adams, Riddell and Stufko added assists.

Atom B Rangers win fifth tournament title

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville atom B Rangers capped off their season with their fifth tournament title of the season.

On March 8, the Rangers captured their fifth tournament title of the season by winning the 'B' side of the Carleton Place tournament.

The Rangers' opened the tournament with a 3-0 loss to Alexandria, but was able to break out of its scoring drought in their second game to defeat Carleton Place 3-1. Mason Williams backstopped the win, while Lucas Stitt (2), and Jacob Hayes provided the scoring in the win. Assists went to Ryan Hanes (2), Hayes, Clark Seymour, Ben Hutton and Ryan Van Stralen.

In the 'B' championship game, the Rangers were able to hold on for a 4-3 victory. Richard Joudoin made some key saves and Hutton sparked the team with a four-goal performance, while Scott Stephenson, Hanes, Hayes, Dylan Render and Cory Wilson had helpers.

The Rangers were not as fortunate in the opening round playoff series against the Kingston Titans.

The Rangers dropped both games to Kingston by a score of 1-0. Despite the first round loss, South Grenville still won the regular season league title with a 18-4-2 record.