VOL. 173, NO.21~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ May 21, 2003

Harbour Days attracts a crowd

Victoria Day weekend festival draws big numbers to Prescott

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT ­ Ideal summer weather accompanying traditional favourites and new events combined to make this past weekend's Harbour Days a big success.

"This is the best by far," reported organizer Mike Boyles. "The weather was perfect for the whole three days and way better than average crowds," he said while taking a much-deserved breather in the shade of the harbour amphitheatre as events were winding down Monday afternoon.

The annual Victoria Day weekend festival that marks the official opening of Prescott's Sandra S. Lawn Harbour featured 20 events - some old faithfuls, such as Kids' Day on Monday, and new additions - like the Medieval Fair at St. John's Anglican Church.

Giant Tiger staff and volunteers barbecued more than 700 hotdogs and gave away an equal number of drinks and chip bags Monday to children who worked up an appetite playing DuPont games, singing at the karaoke contest, mending teddy bears and visiting and petting farm animals.

The Grenville Fish and Game Club/Sicpa North America Little Dreamer boat was kept in the water all day offering free rides on the river to more than 300 people. Many others took in pony rides or strolled along the boardwalk with an ice cream from the Rotary Lighthouse.

Boyles estimated 2,000 children, plus adults, flocked to the harbour area Monday. He also noticed many visitors in town from Ottawa, Brockville, Smiths Falls, Perth, Winchester, Kemptville and other areas - which he attributed to increased advertising. The Harbour Days festival is an excellent opportunity to showcase Prescott and all it has to offer, Boyles emphasized.

"If anybody came here they would really learn to love this town," Boyles said. "It's the most beautiful little town bar none." The festival provides visitors with a good feeling for the town and its amenities - providing reasons to return, he added.

"You can be sure they'll come back."

Soapbox Derby

A highlight of the weekend was the annual soapbox derby on George Street presented by the Prescott Kiwanis Club with assistance from the local Air Cadet squadron.

In the kit car class, Kyle Berry raced to first place; Kyle Van Allen took second place; and Johnathan Van Allen placed third.

In hobby class, Joshua Heyman won first; Dave Vander Velde took second; and Cheyene Ramsey placed third. Kenny Polite takes the award for being the most sportsmanlike competitor.

Participants were given a free lunch, T-shirt, loot bags, medal, certificates and trophies for the winners.

Mutt Show

The Saturday morning Mutt Show at the clock tower square was a new addition to Harbour Days.

Prizes were awarded to Evelyn Delorme (Madeline - smallest dog); Peter Vander Velde (Harry - smallest dog); Irene Dimopoulos (Oakley - largest dog and best trick); Brooke Taylor (Sally - shortest tail and shaggiest dog); Paul McConnell (Kobi - longest tail); and Hollie Boyd (Scooby - best trick and best dressed).

THIS WEEK

Elementary teachers, board approve deal

BROCKVILLE ­ The Upper Canada District School Board and its elementary teachers have a new agreement in place.

Members of the Upper Canada local of the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario ratified the deal May 8. Board trustees voted in favour of the deal April 16.

The two-year agreement is retroactive to Sept. 2002. Salary increases of three per cent will be applied to both years of the contract.

Senior teachers will reportedly earn as much as about $75,000 per year at the end of the agreement.

The Upper Canada board operates elementary schools in Prescott, Johnstown, Cardinal, Shanly, Spencerville, Maynard, Maitland and Algonquin.

Commissionaires' time may soon run out

PRESCOTT ­ Town officials are considering the possibility of ending the use of Commissionaires as parking enforcement officers.

The subject was raised during municipal budget deliberations last Wednesday. When asked about the continued use of the Commissionaires, Town Engineer Clyde Solomon recommended against it.

The town is budgeting $9,100 to pay for their services this year. Commissionaires work a total of 15 hours per week; they monitor parking in the downtown area where meters were once in place and write tickets. The municipality has also budgeted $4,100 in ticket revenue; it was noted at the meeting some of that revenue is not generated by Commissionaires.

Councillor Garry Dewar suggested the town end its contract and see what happens.

Other parking enforcement options will be explored. CAO/Clerk Robert Haller is to submit a report for the May 26 meeting of Prescott council.

Brass quintet will have impact at free concerts

PRESCOTT ­ Come celebrate the Fort Town Concert Association's 20th anniversary at a pair of free concerts this Saturday.

The association presents the Impact Brass Quintet on the parade square at Fort Wellington beginning at 2 pm.

Non-perishable items for the Food For All Food Bank will be accepted at the fort. People who attend the afternoon concert are reminded to bring lawn chairs. In case of rain, the concert will be moved to St. John's Anglican Church at James and Centre streets.

The quintet, which appeared in Prescott as part of the 2001-2002 Fort Town series, will present a different musical program at the church beginning at 7 pm.

Refreshments will be served.

Prescott council digs deeper to find cuts to municipal budget

Half a million dollars later, further cuts needed to keep tax hike at three per cent

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Town officials are getting closer to their budget target for 2003, but there is still work to do.

As of last Wednesday, council had made adjustments totalling more than $500,000. Preliminary budget figures suggested the town would need to find about $700,000 in cost savings or new revenue to achieve a three per cent tax increase this year.

Treasurer Laurie Kirkby advised council at a budget meeting last week the town's contribution to the united counties and its joint services committee was revised and is almost $150,000 lower than the previous figure.

Another change came in the form of a reduction in the management fee being proposed as part of a contract between the town and the Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) for operating Prescott's water plant. The OCWA fee has been decreased by more than $40,000, Town CAO/Clerk Robert Haller reported to council.

A restructuring fee associated with the cost of seeking the disbandment of the Prescott Police Service was also discussed. About $13,000 has been spent by the town to prepare for a judicial hearing in June; the town is challenging the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services decision not to permit the disbandment request.

The town had set a "restructuring fee" of $40,000 based on advice it had received on how much the appeal could cost (between $25,000 and $40,000). Council agreed last week to reduce the budgeted amount to $25,000, a decrease of $15,000.

As part of its effort to find additional cost savings, council reviewed each department's budget. The public works budget prompted considerable discussion, but few if any spending cuts in areas such as winter road maintenance.

The town's next budget meeting is tonight (Wednesday) at 6 pm at the health centre. Councillor Jim French, who chairs the finance committee, said he would prefer to see a tax increase of less than three per cent.

Council is hoping to have the 2003 budget approved by its June 2 council meeting, according to Haller.

The next meeting of Prescott council is set for Monday, May 26 at 7 pm at the health centre.

Blood donor clinic set for Thursday

PRESCOTT ­ South Grenville residents are being encouraged to attend the blood donor clinic to be held tomorrow (Thursday, May 22) at South Grenville District High School.

The Canadian Blood Services (CBS) clinic will run from 2 to 8 pm. Grenville Fish and Game Club and the Kinsmen Club of Prescott are sponsoring the clinic in conjunction with the school.

All blood types are in demand; 130 donors are needed, according to a CBS release.

Anyone who has yet to book an appointment may still attend the clinic; proper identification is required.

For more information, call 1-800-236-6283.

PRESCOTT POLICE NEWS

Arrest made in connection with counterfeit currency

PRESCOTT ­ An arrest has been made in connection with counterfeit $100 bills that turned up recently in Prescott.

Michel Richard, 18, of Montreal was arrested by Brockville police May 12 and charged with uttering counterfeit money.

The Prescott Police Service is asking the public to come forward with any information on the many counterfeit Canadian bills that have been circulated in the area.

A bogus $10 bill was passed May 18 at Burger King. The serial number is FEG3764210.

During the week of May 12, Prescott's municipal police department investigated 76 incidents and four motor vehicle collisions.

On May 13, police received a report that a Nokia cell phone, charger and related accessories and a grey camera case had been stolen from a vehicle parked in the Legion lot. The value of the stolen items is $600. Constable Shawn Steinburg is investigating.

A small amount of money was taken from a cab owned by A.J.'s Taxi. The theft was reported May 14. Constable Moe Morrissette is investigating.

Police received a report May 15 that a window had been broken at the south entrance of South Grenville District High School. The cost of replacing the window is estimated at $300. Constable Terry Foster is the investigating officer.

An officer on cruiser patrol May 15 saw a marijuana plant in the window of a Centre Street apartment. The occupant, a 35-year-old man, was arrested for cultivating marijuana and was released. Charges are pending. A police news release did not include the man's name. Constable Morrissette is investigating.

Police responded to a disturbance call on Douglas Drive May 16. An investigation ensued; Aime Periard, 38, was arrested and charged with assault. A 14-year-old male victim was not injured, according to the police release. The accused was released on conditions to appear in court at a later date. Constable Cindy Bisson is investigating.

Two disturbances that occurred May 10 and May 16 at a Railway Avenue residence led to the arrest of three girls between the ages of 14 and 16. All three were released and dealt with by way of extra judicial measures made possible by the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences in town is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Concerns raised about town's Sunday shopping bylaw

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The town needs to get with the times and revise its policy on store operating hours on Sundays and holidays.

A municipal bylaw enacted by Prescott council in 1992 states retailers may open Sundays between noon and 5 pm. However, several retailers are open before noon each Sunday, and at least one remains open until 6 pm.

At its monthly meeting Thursday, the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce board of directors voted to write a letter to the town asking it to review the bylaw. Dominique Pressault, Chamber vice-president and owner/operator of the Canadian Tire store in Prescott, told directors he had been visited Easter Monday by a Prescott Police Service officer. A complaint had been made about the fact the store's garden centre was open Good Friday.

Pressault said the town officer provided him with a copy of the bylaw. The store owner indicated Prescott businesses are in a tourist area and should have the right to open earlier on Sundays.

The town bylaw designates Prescott as a tourist area. Stores less than 2,400 square feet in area or with fewer than four employees serving the public are exempt.

Councillor and Chamber director Jim French said the municipal bylaw is outdated; even with the bylaw in place, he added, provincial guidelines allow businesses to open before noon Sundays.

"I wholeheartedly disagree, Councillor French," the police chief said.

Somerville told The Journal there have been cases in recent years in which police have advised retailers they are in violation of the bylaw. The retailers are also told further action may be taken if there are subsequent violations. The chief noted he was unaware of any tickets being issued in connection with the Sunday operating hours provision.

The chief said it is time for the town to "bring the bylaw out of the dark age."

French acknowledged the Stedmans/True Value store he operates is open before noon on Sundays. "If everyone else is open, I'll be open," said French, who added he has never received a complaint or warning. The store opened at noon on Victoria Day.

He noted town council will have to deal with concerns about the bylaw. His preference would be for the municipality to offer whatever the provincial statutes allow. It should be up to businesses to decide when they open, according to French.

Under the Retail Business Holiday Act, most stores in Ontario must be closedon New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Stores are no longer required to be closed Boxing Day.

Municipal councils may pass bylaws to allow certain businesses in tourist areas to open regardless of the act. The Prescott bylaw also notes retailers may open Victoria Day, Canada Day and Labour Day between noon and 5 pm.

Queen's birthday among special events at Fort Wellington

PRESCOTT ­ Victoria Day may have come and gone, but Queen Victoria's birthday is being celebrated at Fort Wellington this Saturday, May 24.

The Brockville Infantry Company (circa 1862) will be at the fort for several military drills and demonstrations. The first demonstration will begin at 11 am.

A Victorian Tea to celebrate the queen's 184th birthday will be served from 11:30 am until 1:30 pm.

To celebrate its 20th anniversary season, the Fort Town Concert Association presents the Brass Impact Quintet, which will perform inside the historic walls of the fort beginning at 2 pm. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy the music. Admission to the concert and fort site is free; non-perishable items for the Food For All Food Bank will be collected.

The concert will be followed by another demonstration by the infantry company.

The fort will also play host to a number of special events during its 2003 season. Fort Wellington will once again be taking part in the Doors Open program. The fort and other historic sites in the region will be open free of charge to the public Saturday, May 31. Special demonstrations and a blacksmith making a variety of items for sale will be featured that day at the fort.

This year's Canada Day celebrations will include the official opening of Prescott's Heritage River Trail. The national birthday will also be marked with cake, the traditional firing of the cannon and music by Brockville Irish Cultural Society musicians.

The summer fare also includes the popular "Shadows of the Fort" evening tours Thursdays from July 17 to Aug. 14, heritage day camps and Children's Heritage Day activities Aug. 9.

For more information, call the site at 925-2896.

Fort Wellington, which is operated by Parks Canada, is the Attractions Canada 2002 winner for top site of national or international interest in Ontario. The site is open daily this spring and summer from 10 am to 5 pm.

Extended hours now in place at historical society office

PRESCOTT ­ The Grenville County Historical Society located in Crane House at 439 Edward Street is now open five days a week to assist researchers dig into their family history and other information from the past.

Area resident Scott Murray, who is majoring in history at Carleton University, is staffing the archival resource centre Monday to Friday from 10 to 4 pm until the end of August. The job was made available through the assistance of a Human Resource Development Canada grant.

Throughout the rest of the year, the centre is staffed by volunteers and open Tuesdays only.

The historical society is dedicated to the research and preservation of Grenville County history.

For a nominal fee, the public can access birth, marriage and death records, church and school records, accounts of homes, industries and organizations, maps, books, films, documents, publications and photographs.

Crane House will also be participating in the May 31 Doors Open event, when the public can view local heritage properties free of charge.

For more information, call 925-0489 or send an e-mail to agchs@recorder.ca.

Visit the Web site at web.ripnet.com\~gchs.

Health unit's West Nile virus program promotes awareness

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Health officials are continuing to monitor the spread of the West Nile virus.

The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is emphasizing public education as part of its plan to deal with the virus that was first detected in North America four years ago and has become a high-profile health concern.

It is believed the virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito that received West Nile by feeding on infected birds.

Health officials maintain most people exposed to West Nile virus may not notice any symptoms. Some people may experience flu-like symptoms and mild illness; in rare cases, the virus could result in encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord) and death. The elderly and individuals whose immune systems have been compromised are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill.

A number of human cases of West Nile virus were reported last year in Southern Ontario. No human cases originating in Leeds and Grenville were reported last year. However, health officials have indicated that may not be the case in 2003.

An advisory committee has been formed in the region to advise the medical officer of health in the control of the virus. Local physicians and hospitals are to be alerted to the signs and symptoms of West Nile and when it is appropriate to test for the virus. Confirmed cases are to be reported.

Dead bird surveillance

In 2002, five dead crows in the region ­ including one found near Spencerville ­ were infected with West Nile. As of the end of April, no mosquitoes in the region had been identified with the virus.

The health unit is continuing its bird monitoring program to monitor the spread of the virus. Crows, ravens and other solid black birds much larger than blue jays or robins are highly susceptible to West Nile; dead crows are to be reported to the health unit at 1-800-660-5853 during office hours or 345-5685 at any time. Information on the location and condition of the bird will be asked for as well as the name and phone number of the caller.

The public is being asked to use caution when dealing with dead birds. Do not deliver them to the health unit. Special care should be taken when disposing of dead birds; shovels, rubber gloves and double-bagging are recommended. Anyone who comes in contact should wash his or her hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, or use a hand sanitizer.

Property owners are being reminded to get rid of stagnant areas of water wherever possible, since those areas serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

The public is also being advised there are measures to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes. These include wearing long-sleeved shirts, using insect repellant with DEET and considering staying indoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

For more information on West Nile virus, call the health unit at 345-5685 or visit www.healthunit.org.

Employment centre opens

PRESCOTT ­ The Human Resource Centre of Canada for Students is now open.

The office is located on the second floor of the Federal Building (above the post office) at the corner of Centre and Henry streets.

The official opening will take place this Thursday, May 22 at 11 am. Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan will attend; employers and students are welcome, and refreshments will be served.

Robert Turnbull is the student employment officer based in Prescott. Call 925-2508.

Changes are in the works at Augusta municipal office

MAYNARD ­ Changes are in the works for the Augusta Township municipal office to improve work conditions for employees.

Council passed resolutions May 12 based on CAO Sharon Wilkinson's recommendations authorizing the purchase of a server and computer at a cost of $5,925 plus tax, as well as the purchase of timekeeping and attendance software to facilitate the efficiency of the payroll process. The software is expected to cost $450.

In a related matter, Wilkinson informed council she would like to begin an organizational review of the office, noting Augusta administration is "grossly understaffed" compared to neighbouring municipalities of similar size.

Augusta has two full-time and one part-time employee working in the office. The norm is four staff members for a township of Augusta's size, she said.

As well, Linda Robinson was officially named deputy clerk and deputy treasurer in a resolution passed Monday night. Wilkinson noted Robinson had been performing the duties of the position; the resolution was a formality.

Councillor Bill Buckler said the official title was long overdue and well deserved.

New bicycle gives local boy reason to have faith in other people

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ An act of kindness is making a difference in the life of a 12-year-old boy.

Alexander Whitney's bicycle was stolen from his family's backyard one night on the Easter weekend. He had worked hard to earn some of the money used to pay for the 21-speed bike last summer.

Whitney's mother, Monica, wrote about the theft in a column that appeared in The Journal earlier this month. Reading about the loss of the bike was an upsetting experience for Beryl Clarke, a Prescott resident who acknowledged she had trouble reading the rest of the paper that Wednesday.

"I have children, grandchildren and great grandchildren," she said in an interview. "The article hit me like a brick. It was heartbreaking."

She spoke to her husband Bill about the theft, and the couple decided it would like to replace the bike. "He lost his dream bike," she added. "Your heart tells you to do something."

Mrs. Clarke asked her daughter, Judy Roberts (who knows the Whitneys), to call the family to discuss her parents' suggestion. The response was positive.

The Clarkes, seasonal campers at Grenville Park east of Johnstown, told the story to park operators Larry and Marianne Cooper. Mrs. Clarke said the Coopers immediately pledged their support ­ even offering to buy the bike outright, she added. Arrangements were made with Beach Home Hardware to purchase a bike on the Coopers' account.

Other seasonal campers at the park contributed financially after hearing about the stolen bike. "We received quite a response," said Clarke, who noted those donations covered much of the cost of the bicycle, about $270.

A new 21-speed bike was selected. "I was really excited," he said. "I could hardly wait." Whitney met the Clarkes at the store last Wednesday and took the bike home.

Mrs. Clarke noted she wanted to make sure the boy received a bike at least as nice as the one he had.

"I'm hoping we restored his faith in mankind," she remarked.

Whitney told The Journal he wanted to thank the people for their kindness and "tell them how much this means to me."

In addition to his comments, he helped bake two dozen chocolate chip cookies that were given to the Clarkes. He also wants to go to Grenville Park and meet the people who chipped in to buy the bicycle.

Whitney said the new bike will be taken into the house every night, and he will lock it up every time he finishes using it.

Town should do something about eyesore: Peters

JOHNSTOWN ­ The condition of the Daniels' Hotel lot on King Street in Prescott continues to draw the ire of the local business community.

Wilf Peters, a King Street merchant and director with the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce, said the town should make an effort to "get that dump cleaned out."

The fence is in poor condition and the lot does not appear to be maintained. Peters noted at the directors' monthly lunch meeting Thursday at Bridgeview Restaurant the municipality has a property standards bylaw and should be enforcing it. "Nothing is being done," he said.

There have been suggestions the town should acquire the lot and use it as a parking lot or a park.

Edwardsburgh playgroup in danger of folding if new home is not found

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - With just over a month away from closure, the Edwardsburgh Co-operative Playgroup is trying to make a last ditch effort to keep its doors open for pre-schoolers.

The playgroup, which holds Wednesday and Friday morning sessions is in danger of closing its doors after being active in the community for roughly 30 years.

The groups lease at the Masonic Hall in Spencerville runs out June 28. The organization is still searching for a home after Ministry of the Environment legislation was put into place a little more than a year ago requiring chlorinated or ultraviolet treated water at any building which would house children's programs.

"In order to comply with the regulations, we would need to find a facility which would be willing to house us and take responsibility for the water treatment system," said playgroup chair Penny Reid. "It would mean not only would the treatment system need to be put in, but weekly or bi-weekly water tests would also have to be provided at a private facility for about $50 a pop."

Reid indicated that for a year now the group has been looking for a home in the Spencerville area knowing that $35,000 in funding was available from the ministry to install the water system - until it expired March 31.

"It could have been paid for by the province," said Reid. "We're still hopeful, though, since a representative from the ministry told us she would go to bat for us if we could still find a location willing to take us in."

The ministry's legislation left little options for the small group.

"We've been battling with them for so long now," said playgroup registrar Paula Carmichael, who has three children who participate in the group. "We've offered to use bottled water for everything including washing our hands, but it wasn't good enough. There was no way to get around it."

Parents of the children involved with the group are frustrated that something so beneficial to the children could be lost.

"You can see how much fun the kids are having and how much they are learning," said Carmichael. "You can't put a price tag on that. It feels like we're fighting a battle no one knows about."

The group, which has just over 10 children for both the Wednesday and Friday morning sessions, has been a key way for children to learn to socialize with others before starting school, said Steve Lawrence, whose son Cameron, 2, has been in the group for about a month. "This group has really helped out my son," said Lawrence. "Before it he had no real interaction with other children. He used to be off the wall at home, really wound up. Now since he's been here he speaks a lot better, cleans up his toys and is anxious to tell us about what he did at the group. It's always the highlight of his week."

The playgroup is realistic about its options for the future.

"We're very hopeful about staying open," said Reid. "We want to make sure we keep our doors open for the many children which would benefit from the group in the future, but there are still a lot of hurdles even if we find a home."

Four nurse practitioners approved in counties

BROCKVILLE ­ The local branch of the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) has been officially allotted one of four nurse practitioners (NPs) coming to Leeds and Grenville, according to MPP Bob Runciman.

Provincial funding for the other three NPs in the united counties has been awarded to Brockville General Hospital, St. Lawrence District Medical Health Centre and Athens District Health Centre.

In the fall of 2002, the Eves government announced $11 million in funding for 117 new nurse practitioners; health service agencies in the counties were invited to submit applications for the local positions.

"These new nurse practitioners will play a vital role in increasing access to primary health care services," Runciman stated in a news release issued Thursday.

The Progressive Conservative MPP indicated the government is committed to increasing the number of NPs; additional funding announcements can be expected, according to Runciman.

White elected to provincial board of dental hygienists' association

PRESCOTT ­ A Prescott-area woman has joined the Ontario Dental Hygienists' Association (ODHA) board of directors.

Penny White, a registered dental hygienist who works for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, has been elected to serve as a director for a one-year term beginning this month.

Promoting dental health is a primary concern of dental hygienists. In addition to cleaning teeth, they assess and plan treatments and evaluate individual oral care needs.

ODHA, which is marking its 40th anniversary, has more than 6,000 members.

Dental hygiene is one of the largest of the 23 regulated health professions in Ontario.

New member welcomed to Chamber of Commerce

JOHNSTOWN ­ A Winchester-area businessman is the newest member of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber directors agreed Thursday to accept an application by Earl Delmer of Delve Enterprises, which sells fencing. Delmer is a former member of the Chamber of Commerce, according to Executive Director Mike Boyles.

The Prescott-area business group has a membership of about 150.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"It feels like we're fighting a battle no one knows about."

Paula Carmichael, commenting on the effort to save the Edwardsburgh Co-operative Playgroup

Editor's Notebook

One more call to serve

As much as most people are looking forward to a great summer, we suspect some are eagerly anticipating the arrival of fall and the end of the current term of municipal councils in South Grenville. The dysfunctional unit known as Prescott council has another six months of acrimony, bickering and indecision to get through before calling it a day. Even though we respect the individuals and the positions they hold, it would be difficult to congratulate council as a whole for a job well done. The town hall renovation project is finally happening, but it could have been completed last year had it not been for the internal disagreement that led council to reconsider each and every option that had already been studied and scrapped and then studied again.

There may have (in some circles) been fairly high hopes for this edition of Prescott council, but those hopes have yet to be realized. Say what you will about the previous council, but at least it seemed to work effectively as a unit.

In fairness, serving in local government can be difficult at the best of times. Amalgamation was a hot topic in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal for much of this term, then things cooled off until Mayor Dobbie's letter seeking provincial approval for a de-amalgamation vote in this November's municipal election seemingly came out of nowhere. Even though the province had as of last week not made it official, there is no indication the request will be approved. Who knows if there was any real hope such a request would be well-received by the Progressive Conservative government that basically forced municipalities to amalgamate or give the concept serious consideration.

Council candidates will have to decide how they will deal with this subject that continues to be a sore spot for many voters in both sections of the amalgamated township.

Perhaps some of the opponents of amalgamation will take the plunge and seek election to council as is the case in Augusta Township. It is one thing to disagree with how the current council is handling the municipality's affairs; it is another to be willing and able to put your name forward and let the voters decide if they like the job that is being done or would prefer a different option.

Some readers may be growing tired of editorials encouraging local residents to consider running for public office. However, municipal government has a direct and significant effect on our communities and their futures. The often thankless job of sitting through committee meetings and trying to address residents' concerns may not be a dream job, but it is a task that must be performed by someone out there.

Why not you?

Tim Ruhnke

Changing a tire is not as easy as it would appear

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS by David Dickenson

Almost every trip along the 401 or 416 you see some poor sap on the side of the road struggling to get a flat fixed.

I've learned things the hard way this week experiencing my first flat tire and still trying to make sure it wouldn't affect me.

I'm telling you, I was angry; I knew I had to get it changed and fast because it was pouring out and I had a busy day of work Monday.

After skimming the manual which read undo bolts, reef on the tire, put spare on and put bolts back on in a star pattern, I thought to myself "I know that this is going to be simple. What kind of moron can't change a tire?"

Then I found out that I am a moron as well.

After receiving some misguided advice on jack placement and a few poor attempts to get the corner of the car lifted enough to get that damn thing off, I got fed up and threw away the book and found the proper place on my own to get the car up.

Everything was going well. I was on the right track; I managed to get the jack up, get the hub cap off and then the bolts off when I really found out how dumb I was.

I followed the next step at sliding the wheel off which was supposed to be the easiest part of the matter, but that's where I ran into the wall. I tried pulling it gently, then wiggling it, then I got mad and started reefing on the thing pulling the tire completely off the rim falling flat on my ass in a huge puddle which had amassed from the downpour.

I went back at it battling with the damn rim to get it off so I can put the spare on, but it wouldn't budge. I called my buddy over to give me a hand and he tried, with no luck. Then we both tried with still no luck.

We went to get tools to take off a bolt we thought was stopping the rim from coming off and when we got back my neighbour was standing there laughing his head off trying to figure out how I got the wheel off the rim.

He took a hammer from my hand and gently tapped the rim twice and the wheel slid right off in his hands as I sat soaking wet feeling like a dumb ass. Underneath the rim was a small scattering of sludge which had prevented it from coming off.

I finally got everything changed and took it in to get fixed, but my humiliation wasn't over as I still had to explain how I got the tire off its rim.

They still claim they've never seen anyone do that before.

Local board encourages contentment despite sugar rationing

FROM THE ARCHIVES

May 20, 1943

* Owing to the difficulties of war, Canadians on the home front are beginning to understand that although they have had an almost unlimited supply of food commodities for use in their homes, items are greatly reduced due to shortage of labour and problems with importing.

There appears at present to be an acute shortage of meats, tea, coffee, butter, certain canned goods and sugar. The Local Ration Board has decided to allow each person an extra 10 pounds of sugar for canning purposes, instead of 11-and-a-half pounds as was earlier noted. This will no doubt be a real hardship, but we should consider it a minor sacrifice.

Knowing the sufferings that are endured by the people of enemy-occupied countries, have we any cause for murmur or complaint? Let us bear with fortitude this insignificant inconvenience and trust that the forces of the enemy will soon be subjugated and that peace and contentment may again reign throughout the Dominion and the whole civilized world.

May 21, 1953

* Commencing this week, Prescott banks go on a new schedule of closing Saturdays, and re-opening Friday afternoons from 5 to 6:30 pm. This new schedule is planned to give the staff a five-day week similar to that enjoyed by industry.

* The first son of the congregation to answer the call to the Christian ministry, John James Urquhart, took his vows of ordination in St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church. He is the elder son of Leonard Urquhart and the late Mrs. Urquhart, Henry Street West, and attended local schools.

May 11, 1983

* The Operation Rose Committee, created in March to aid former Prescott resident Rosemary Sonnenberg who faced a heart and double lung transplant, has approved a plan to spend its funds - in the wake of Mrs. Sonnenberg's death - on a program of public education and transplant research. Campaign organizer Ray Young said donations now total more than $31,000.

May 19, 1993

* After weeks of speculation, Mike Horan has been appointed the new coach and general manager of the Rideau-St. Lawrence Junior B Hockey League team. Horan is the 33-year-old Johnstown native who guided the Prescott Falcons to a Gill Cup championship during the 1987-88 season and played goal for both the Cardinal Broncos and Spencerville Bruins.

Preparing Canadian Yorkies for tryouts with Washington State Huskies

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

While you are reading this, little Tuffy and his sister Turtle (soon to be renamed) are flying the friendly skies of Air Canada on their way to a new life near Seattle, Washington, in the U.S. of A., in Nana's special Samsonite puppy carry-on. At eleven weeks of age, they are ready to leave momma Lucy and sister Maggie and start a new life of their own.

As we saw them off in the dawn's early light we couldn't help but think of another branch of our family, the Bakers, who had set out for America back in the 1500s from Europe to start a new life and future, only to have to strike their tents and gather up their belongings in 1784 to continue their life under the benevolence of the British Crown in this country. This trip to join Jeff and Jennifer and boys, the present American branch of the Yorkshire Morrises, is sort of an immigration in reverse.

We did our bit for the little Yorkies before they left Canada to make sure they could fit into their neighbourhood as cute little family pets instead of migrants from the great white north, where the natives are known for the quality of their northern pot, their reluctance to take up arms (mainly because they don't have any), and to answer every question or statement with the national verb, "eh?"

Using mini dog biscuits as bribes it only took us a week to get Tuffy and Turtle to stop barking "Yip! Yip! Eh?" ­ and switch to the more familiar left coast greeting of "Ruff! Ruff! Don't you know?" We taught them to sit at attention and cover their heart with their right paw when the Star Bangled Banner is played. After considerable internet browsing we dug up the names of all the dogs owned by previous U.S. presidents, and taught them, in chronological order, to the puppies. They had trouble with president Johnston's little beagle named Lester, and president Reagan's Irish setter, Brian, but they were quick learners and persevered.

One of the most difficult tasks we faced in de-Canadianizing these pups, was suppressing their hockey genes, especially in light of the fact that their entire life had been spent under the influence of NHL hockey, especially the Stanley Cup playoffs.

Every time we threw a little puck into the corner of their cage during the last month, we made sure they had their little protective muzzles on. This paid off in that they both had their front teeth when they boarded the plane in Ottawa. (Did you notice the close-up bench shots of the Canadian hockey players during the cup finals, that none of them have their front teeth?)

We thought that with these little guys being taken into a Washington State household full of jocks, they should be able to put up their most attractive snarl just in case they should ever be recruited by the Washington State Huskies.

*****

If you think Canada received the international insult of all insults recently when U.S. President Bush cancelled his trip to Ottawa and at the same time entertained the Prime Minister of Australia at his Texas ranch (which has been off limits to the Canadian Prime Minister) then think again.

The most blatant insult offered up to Canada by a foreign nation in recent years came a couple of weeks ago in Finland following Canada's gold medal performance over Sweden in the World Cup finals in Helsinki. After about half an hour of celebrations and presentations the host Finns finally got around to raising the Canadian flag and the playing of the Canadian national anthem.

When the announcement was made in that strange language the Finns use to herd reindeer, that the Canadian flag would be raised and the Canadian national anthem played in honour of the Canadian victory, we were impressed to note on TV a real, live brass band standing on the ice in readiness to render forth the stirring strains of our national anthem.

We were impressed when the band leader raised his baton and his band came to attention, with instruments at the ready, and then started in on the strains of O Canada with the downward stroke of the baton. That, dear readers, was where this Finnish junior cadet band and the original score of our national anthem parted company. It sounded as if every member of the band had the music for second or third part harmony, and no one, not even the snare drummer, had a part for the melody.

This was the worst rendition of our national anthem we have ever heard and we think the Finnish government owes Canada a diplomatic apology ­ but then again, we have a French version of O Canada (Canada O) and an English version, so maybe the Finns were experimenting with a Finnish version should Manitoba decided to separate.

Young workers with bad attitudes are not good for local businesses

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Editor;

As we sat in a local restaurant enjoying our treats, my sweetheart and I wondered why there is little or no respect among some younger people toward their elders.

Having just come from other stores, we have noticed recently the younger people that serve the public in some of our town businesses seem to care less about prompt and courteous service to the people that provide them with a job than they do about gossiping and making sure that their hair is just right or that they are careful not to break a nail while handling cash and so on and so on. Now this is not true about all the younger crowd, but it is true about a good number of them.

As we were at the restaurant with two grandchildren, and we were the only people there, except for four more people who came in behind us, the first thing we noticed was that all of the tables were not cleaned. Yes, not one table was clean so we picked the cleanest of the dirtiest and sat trying to enjoy two little kids enjoy their treats. This was short lived as I observed an employee arriving for a shift; she did not look very happy coming through the door and this was confirmed by the language exchange between she and her boyfriend or whatever.

Now I have used those same words on occasion but not there and certainly not in front of two youngsters. We move over to a store, and there are a few glitches there that need some attention also. The first being that when a customer approaches an employee they should greet them and address their needs instead of disappearing never to be found. On our last visit to another business, there was so much chatter behind the counter and at the drive thru a person could barely think and get an order placed with the one person trying to serve the double line-up I was in.

While not all the people working in these places of business show disrespect, a lot of them show lack of interest or boredom or some other personality other than that which they should. I hope they realize that if they have no customers then surely that business will suffer and their job could be in jeopardy. There used to be a saying, the customer is always right. Now there seems to be an attitude that if you don't like it, take your business elsewhere. Well, this could be the case and then our town suffers.

I for one like the fact that people are investing in our town. Friendly employees deserve a hand for their service to the public, and to all the other businesses in our town who enjoy serving the public and most deservedly get our business as we enjoy doing business with them. To those who display attitude while doing business, you should realize that there are better ways to serve your customers and that your job would be more enjoyable.

C. Smalley
Prescott

Amalgamation shows most politicians are no longer accountable to the people

The Editor;

It becomes more and more obvious that rural communities that got swallowed up by provincial government's forced amalgamations will continue to pay a very high price for their attempt to play by the rules. We are losing our way of life. Those who told the government to go to hell were the beneficiaries and get to remain as individual communities.

The one that continues to irritate me is Brockville, home of Bob Runciman. Did they know something that us poor suckers who took this government at their word did not? They said all municipalities had to amalgamate, and if they did not do it on their own that they, the government, would do it for them. Then they changed their minds when they saw what a mess they had created, leaving those of us who "did the right thing" with no recourse but to pay higher and higher taxes to bigger and bigger governments where approachability and accountability have been sacrificed.

Edwardsburgh and Cardinal want a divorce. Our marriage would not have occurred if a gun had not been held to our heads. Divorce is still legal in Ontario, is it not?

Our mayor has taken steps to ensure that we, the taxpayers, get an opportunity to have a say in our future. He remains accountable but lonely in his quest for democracy.

I, for one, refuse to accept this insufferable situation, higher taxes, loss of identity, bigger government, less municipal grant money and having two of everything, with less money to support it all.

Ernie Eves should either give us a choice or force all municipalities to do the same. He has not got the guts to do either, so is it time for him to go? McGuinty is talking the talk, but is he to be trusted? He is not talking about this too much these days. I was contacted by Mazurek (the Liberal running against Runciman in Leeds-Grenville) when he heard of our desire to get out of this hell, and he was to come to my home for a meeting. He never came. So, who do we trust?

God, I wish I knew. I guess as a people we are immaterial to those we elect. And they wonder why no one votes anymore. I believe this is the way the politicians want it; otherwise, some honest folk would step up and change the sick system we so improperly call democracy.

Patricia Grant
Spencerville

Book on history of Prescott produces fond memories

Dear Mr. Morris;

I received my copy of "Prescott 1800-2000" which you forwarded to me on behalf of my sister, Luella Armstrong, and have enjoyed reading it very much. I have passed it on to my neighbour whose father used to own the hardware store which later belonged to Ralph Wallace. She recognized many names in it.

I was born in Prescott, in the house which is opposite the Legion Hall. I can remember when the salvation army met there, then it was apartments, etc., before it was taken over by the Canadian Legion. I can remember when the PPS was destroyed by fire, and some classes, mine included, were held in the PHS in the curtained-off auditorium. My father, W. Edgar Smith, served on the school board for many years as is noted in your book.

I found the chapter on the DLD very interesting. I started work there on opening day and worked in the assembly room to begin with. After several months I was assigned to Mr. Sam McNeil who came from Montréal to be production superintendent as his secretary. The girls in the assembly room wore blue coveralls or jumpsuits with zipped fronts and DLD crest on the right shoulder. I was asked to model two styles and the girls chose the one we wore. I didn't have to wear one but was given the one I modeled and I kept it for years. It even travelled with me to the West Coast.

I was married in Sept. 1942 at St. Andrew's Church and Mr. Lorne Armstrong and Mr. McNeil attended the ceremony. I continued to work until Feb. 1943, when I then left to join my husband who was serving in the army in Nova Scotia. After six months on the east coast, my husband was transferred to the west coast and then sent home for discharge. We then settled in Brockville where he had employment. We moved west in 1957 but I have made several trips back to Prescott to visit old friends and neighbours.

I received a clipping from The Journal regarding the letter you received from Elizabeth Johnson Murdock and remembered a very pleasant evening my husband and I had with Elizabeth and her husband while they lived in Vancouver. I knew her grandparents and they lived only two houses from my parents' home on Henry Street. I started Kindergarten with her brother Eric.

I forgot to tell you that the DLD had a softball team and so did Gold Glove Works. Mike Gold challenged our team to a tournament and he was to provide the trophy. Our team won, but we never did get that trophy, so I told Mike that I'm sure that all the members of the team would really appreciate a nice pair of Gold gloves. These we did receive.

Keep up the good work!

Jean Collier

SCHOOL SCENE

BOUNDARY STREET PUBLIC SCHOOL: Michelle Gordon, hospitality manager at the new Prescott McDonald's, has supplied meal certificates to our primary students. Students are selected each week as "Student of the Week" by their teacher for their accomplishments.

On Friday, May 23, the hot lunch is chicken nuggets. On Wednesday, May 28, the grades 1, 2 and Kindergarten classes are going on a field trip to the Heckston Farms. They will learn about animals, soil, machinery, crops and farm safety.

SOUTH EDWARDSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL: Danielle Rainey, a Grade 4 student at SEPS, has had her art work accepted for display in the student art gallery to be held May 26 at Brockville Collegiate Institute. Congratulations to Danielle on her fine art work.

SEPS will be hosting a "Jump Rope for Heart" event this week to raise funds for the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Students will be skipping in gym classes throughout the week as well as skipping outside Friday afternoon. The rain date for the outdoor event is Wednesday, May 28.

On Tuesday, May 27 at the Brockville Memorial Centre, our grade 5/6 students will participate in "Racing Against Drugs," a program to promote good health choices, safety and a drug-free lifestyle.

Hydro One will make a hydro safety presentation to all our students on Monday, May 26.

We acknowledge Mrs. Albers, who led our Kindergarten students in Dino sing-alongs in the month of May.

The hot lunch today is chicken nuggets; next week, it will be hamburgers.

A school council meeting will take place May 29 at 6:30 pm in the library. Everyone is welcome.

ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL: This week, we return to normal schedules after the completion of EQAO provincial assessments. We are proud of our Grade 3 students and teachers who have been working so hard.

On Wednesday, May 21 at 7 pm, there is a Catholic school council partnership meeting at the board office in Kemptville.

On Friday, May 23 at our 1 pm assembly, we will welcome Julie Bolton of the health unit to St. Mark Catholic School to present prizes for "Turn Off the TV Week."

Our All Star Reading Strategies this week are: Kindergarten ­ "Sound it out/word power with rhyming parts/what's the letter? What's the sound?; Grade 1 ­ Unstuck Strategies ("Tricky words"); Grade 2 ­ Unstuck Strategies ("Find the mix-up"); Grade 3 ­ Unstuck Strategies ("Tricky words").

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

Yard sale supports activities at Central school

PRESCOTT ­ A yard sale to raise money for student activities at Central Public School will take place this Saturday, May 24 from 8:30 am to 1 pm (rain or shine) at 3001 County Road 18, about one kilometre north of Highway 401.

There will be a touch and take table and a bake sale. A barbecue will be held from 11 am to 1 pm. Bring items to donate or rent a table; rentals are to be booked and paid for by Wednesday, May 21.

For more information on renting tables or for delivering items to donate, call Tracey Hoogwerf at 925-0520.

Fair pumpkin seeds are available

SPENCERVILLE ­ Giant pumpkin seeds for the Spencerville Fair are now on sale.

Packets of the special seeds can be purchased at a number of locations in the Grenville, Dundas and Leeds area, including Dixie & Egan, Spencerville Home Hardware and Beach Home Hardware.

For more information, contact Wayne Henry at 345-4908.

Big rebate leads to budget debate

TOWNSHIP NEWS

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council discovered at last Wednesday's budget meeting it has $200,000 more than originally expected.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal received a rebate last week from its policing contract.

The contract offers a rebate to the township at the end of the year based on the number of occurrences and responses from the Ontario Provincial Police.

"We had an estimated surplus of about $110,000," said township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald, "and now after the annual rebate it has jumped to about $312,000. It amounts to about $200,000 we have that we didn't think we had."

With the extra money, council debated things that could be added to the budget which had been taken out such as the deferred Cardinal and Johnstown pool upgrades, a canal bank study, extra money to the library boards and money for Geographic Information Systems.

After much debate, council decided to leave the money into reserves since it could be re-allocated from the reserves at any council meeting when it would be needed.

"There's no use to use the money on the pools if we have a chance at an OSTAR grant," said Mayor Dave Dobbie. "We're pretty confident we can get money from OSTAR and if we don't then we can deal with it next year."

Council also indicated the library boards are already receiving a $5,000 increase.

"If we just leave it in the reserves then we can draw from it when it's needed," said Dobbie. "I always like to have a little money in the bank. My recommendation is to leave it the way it is."

Council delays budget vote

SPENCERVILLE - The Edwardsburgh/Cardinal budget, which was tentatively scheduled to be brought to council last night has been delayed two weeks.

Mayor Dave Dobbie explained at a budget meeting last Wednesday that council had intended to bring the budget to council for a vote at the regular council meeting May 20.

After council learned the next United Counties of Leeds and Grenville meeting to set the counties rate would not be until May 22, it was decided the township budget would be brought to council at the regular council meeting June 2.

The mayor decided to receive public input on the budget on May 20 since it had already been advertised for the budget to be brought to council at that time.

"Since it was advertised for the 20th we can have a public meeting," said Dobbie. "But the budget will not be brought to council for a vote until June 2."

Water and sewer rates discussed at meeting

SPENCERVILLE - Township council decided to equalize water and sewer rates for all residents receiving Cardinal services and infrastructure.

Seventeen homes located on the west side of Shanly Road, Ann Street and the north side of Hoy Street which are in the former township of Edwardsburgh were previously not factored into the area rating.

These properties were, prior to amalgamation, situated within the boundaries of the former township of Edwardsburgh, and not subject to the village of Cardinal's additional area rating. In lieu of the village's additional area rating, owners of these properties paid in 2002special charges of $560 annually for both services, of which $460 was used for operational costs while the balance directed to capital costs for the treatment plant.

"If they're using the services, they should be paying the same as everyone else who is using it," said Mayor Dave Dobbie. "If we went with any other scenario, I don't know how we would defend it."

Deputy Mayor Marie Thomson agreed with the mayor. "Personally, I think they should be paying the same," said Thomson. "Work and repairs will be needed on it and they use it too. They'll have to pay for it as well."

Councillor Peggy Taylor agreed with the assessment, but was concerned there was an issue of fairness involving water rate in the Edwardsburgh Business Park located in Johnstown which also brings water to some of the residences in the township from Prescott's system.

"If it is going user-pay then it should be across the township," said Taylor. "It's the principle of the matter. We need things to be fair."

The mayor explained the business park receiving a lower rate was in the best interests of the township.

"I remember having this conversation about the water line to Pirelli," said Dobbie. "We need water to encourage growth and new industry. The township owns so much land out there; with water there if someone wants the land it's ready to go."

Healthy communities group plans to work with district resource centre

CARDINAL - The Cardinal "healthy communities" group is looking at joining forces with the Cardinal and District Resource Centre.

The group, which formed April 28 to help bring medical services to the township starting with Cardinal, is hoping to build on its brainstorming sessions.

The group is looking at remaining a sub-committee of the resource centre with a member of the group on the resource centre board.

At its last meeting, the group was looking at possible names, whether it would seek a not-for-profit group standing and working to put some of the ideas from their first meeting brainstorming period into action.

"The resource centre indicated an interest in working with the group," said group member and Ward One Councillor Peggy Taylor. "They're already a not-for-profit organization which we wanted, and we will put a person on the board to report back to the sub-committee."

The group feels a partnership with the resource centre is in its best interests given the state of the Cardinal village hall which had been a key point of interest to the group.

"We couldn't really do anything with the building, because of the whole de-amalgamation issue looming overhead," said Taylor. "That building is officially on hold. After the first meeting it was discussed that Dr. Thomas could use the resource centre for a medical office which fell under the resource centre's guidelines."

The group has appointed Evelyn Mallett to be on the resource centre board with her health care background.

The group also plans on sending a delegation to council in the next month to speak on some of the concerns expressed at its meetings.

The group will be holding its next meeting May 26 at 7 pm at the Cardinal municipal hall and will begin to meet monthly as a sub-committee on the fourth Monday of each month.

Cardinal Memorial Rink Co. elects 1933 officers

CARDINAL'S PAST

May 18, 1933

* The annual meeting of the Cardinal Memorial Rink Co. was held in the town hall, with President and Secretary A.S. Fraser in the chair. Also re-elected to serve a third term were J.C. Sim, W.P. Walker, A. Brown, F. Dodge, E. Covington, H. McDonald, F. Serviss and B. Shortt.

* Cardinal's first toxoid clinic for the prevention of diphtheria took place this week and 375 children received their first inoculation. Among the local nurses helping with the clinics were Mrs. Turner, Miss Ranson, Miss Flett and Miss Wilson. Dr. Palmer and Dr. Williams administered the treatment.

May 23, 1972

* Branch 105 President C.B. Amell presided at the general meeting of the Royal Canadian Legion. The following officers were installed: John Gilligan, sgt.-at-arms; Raymond O'Brien, secretary; Ray Hall, treasurer; Emerson Calhoun, Mallory Harper, Dave Farmer and Frank Gladstone, executive committee members; Armand Bottan, 2nd vice-president; Reginald Farmer, 1st vice-president; and Bernard Patrick, past-president.

May 11, 1983

* After a successful rookie season with the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League, 17-year-old Todd Gill has returned to Cardinal. The defenceman was chosen in the second round of the 1982 midget draft by the Spitfires and was the 18th pick overall in the draft. He collected 15 goals and 24 assists this year for a total of 39 points in his first season of major Junior A hockey. He heads back to Windsor in early September.

May 18, 1983

* Village council announced Dwight "Ike" McLaughlin of Churchill Road in Prescott has been appointed chief of the Cardinal Police Department. McLaughlin, who served with the Perth and Marathon, Ont., police departments from 1953 to 1968, assumes his duties here June 6. He replaces acting chief Ron Wood, who leaves to join former police chief Walter Kolodziechuk in Alliston, Ont. McLaughlin and his wife Joyce McLaughlin plan to move to Cardinal in the near future.

Volunteers sought to help school's greening program

CARDINAL - The community is being invited to help out Benson Public School with a greening program to be run May 30.

The school will be working with the Grenville Land Stewardship Council, parents and members of the community to help beautify the school.

Plans are to work at the front of the school creating flower gardens and planting shrubs.

The greening program will start at the school at 9 am.

For more information or to get involved with the program contact Donna Patrick at 657-3604 or Bill Loshaw at the school at 657-3095.

Optimist Club to host annual volunteer night

SPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville Optimists Club will be holding a volunteer appreciation night Wednesday, May 28 at the Drummond Building.

Doors will open at 6 pm with a roast beef dinner to follow at 7 pm. After the dinner there will be a Chinese auction and a performance from the South Grenville District High School Band.

Molly Faessen will be presented the adult award for her numerous contributions to the community; the youth award will be presented to North Edwardsburgh Public School student Cody Clark.

Advanced tickets can be purchased by leaving a message at 658-3265 or 658-2131.

Enjoy an evening of jazz at St. John's

PRESCOTT ­ St. John's Anglican Church will present "An Evening of Jazz" Friday, June 6 at 7:30 pm.

The event will feature Avalon Motel, a group that has appeared in North America and Asia and has performed at jazz festivals in Montreal, Ottawa and Brockville.

Light refreshments will follow the concert. Proceeds from the concert will go to St. John's in Prescott and St. James in Maitland. Tickets can be purchased at The Blue Heron Inn on County Road 2 just west of Prescott, at the door or by calling 925-0562 or 926-0265.

Garden tour features five country properties

SPENCERVILLE ­ The annual garden tour, plant sale and tea in support of the Edwardsburgh Public Library will take place Saturday, June 7. Five country gardens will be featured on the tour. The plant sale and tea will be held at the Lions Den on County Road 44. For more information, contact 658-5575.

Do some cleaning and earn a meal

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

Thanks to everyone who came and enjoyed our Friday lunch. Our next lunch will be May 30, but you must keep clean a corner to earn your meal. We will be planting flowers, cleaning kitchen cupboards and sorting other corners in the house. All help is appreciated, and we promise a good lunch.

The bus for Magog will be leaving early Sunday morning. Plan to be here by 9 am so we can tag your luggage and assign your rooms for a 9:30 departure.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Betty Pillar and Barbara Martin; 2nd, Margaret Nesbitt; door prize, Andy Britnell. Fun bridge ­ 1st, Delia Seeley. Tuesday night cribbage ­ high hand, Jean Annable; 1st, Lou Baldwin; 2nd, Myrtle Shahan; 3rd, Lori Gere. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Eleanor Gilligan; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; door, Ann Gladstone. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Alice Crowder; 2nd, Jeannine Marion; 3rd, Gladys Somerville; door, Bea Hemsley.

Augusta official plan ready for review

MAYNARD ­ A draft of Augusta Township's new official plan is now ready for public review.

Township Chief Building Official Doug Beesley, who is also responsible for planning, told council at its meeting May 12 the document is available at the Maynard municipal office for comments and input.

A public meeting and open house to discuss the plan has been scheduled for June 26.

The new document replaces the township's outdated 1977 official plan. Beesley has noted an official plan is essential in every municipality, and public consultation is a vital component to the planning process.

The plan charts a course for managing land use and resources over the next 20 years and deals with such issues as new housing and commercial development, protection of groundwater and agricultural lands, stewardship of natural resources, and standards for services, such as roads, waste disposal, fire protection and parks.

The plan also recognizes the importance of industrial land uses and the conservation of heritage buildings and archeological resources.

For more information on how to participate in the planning process, contact Beesley at 925-4231.

Golf tournament supports kids' activities

EDWARDSBURGH/CARDINAL ­ The community policing committee of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal will hold a golf tournament Wednesday, July 16 at the Nation View course in South Mountain.

A steak dinner is included in the entry fee. Prizes will be awarded for holes-in-one, closest to the hole and longest drive. Each entrant will receive a prize.

Proceeds from the tournament will be used for activities involving children in the township.

To sign up or to be a sponsor, contact Constable Holly Howard or Constable Jim Blanchette (925-4221) or Ralph Hampton at 657-3521.

Giants send 14 athletes to EOSSAA track and field meet

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - South Grenville District High School received strong performances from its athletes to score a fourth place finish in the team competition at the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association track and field meet Thursday in Brockville.

The Giants finished the competition with 200.5 points and Grenville Christian College finished with 110 points for ninth place, while the meet host the TISS Pirates won the meet with 1.381.5 points.

"We had a great meet finishing fourth overall," said coach Mark Lewis. "We took 21 kids to the meet and 14 of them have qualified for the EOSSAA (Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association) meet next week in Ottawa. Better than 60 per cent qualifying is a good performance."

South Grenville's senior girls contingent led the way for the Giants with eight top five finishes including a pair of first place finishes from Kim Howitt in the senior girls 800 metres and senior girls Long Jump. Howitt was able to jump a personal best in the long jump with a jump of 4.90 metres, which was 30 centimetres farther than her nearest competitor.

"We got some of the best performances from our kids and it's good to see them improve," said Lewis. "Kim Howitt and Julie Putman each had amazing days. We're just trying to build a team that can compete each year."

Giants throwers also had a big day as Shane Pettifers junior boys discus winning throw of 37.85 outdistanced his nearest competitor by nearly eight metres. Pettifer also scored a first place finish in the shot put with a throw of 12.99, while also finishing third in the javelin with a throw of 35.52. Senior throwers Shawn Bradford and Kory Brontmire won the discus and javelin competitions respectively to advance while Brontmire finished second in the shot put and Bradford third.

The Giants will advance a total of 14 athletes to compete in 20 events tomorrow (Thursday, May 20) in the EOSSAA meet at the Terry Fox Athletic Centre in Ottawa.

Lewis is hopeful the Giants will be able to have a strong showing at EOSSAA to continue with personal bests and possible berths in the East Regionals.

"We have a lot of confidence in the kids," said Lewis. "They just have to believe in themselves."

Top finishes for South Grenville schools include:

Junior girls 100m

6. Brittany Byrd, SGDHS, 14.95

11. Shannon Thornhill, SGDHS, 15.26

Midget boys 100m

7. Nick Thornhill, SGDHS, 13.00

Junior boys 100m

3. Alvin Ng, GCC, 13.04

6. Jimmy Locke, GCC, 13.36

7. Dan Lim, GCC, 13.41

Senior girls 100m

5. Erin Heibein, SGDHS, 14.61

6. Sarah McNiece, GCC, 15.68

Senior boys 100m

7. Chris Clark, GCC, 12.73

Midget boys 200m

4. Nick Thornhill, SGDHS, 26.20

Senior girls 200m

4. Sarah McNiece, GCC, 31.00

Junior boys 200m

5. Charles O'Brien, GCC, 27.10

6. Alex Chan, GCC, 28.47

8. Jimmy Locke, GCC, 28.66

Junior girls 400m

8. Amy Foster, SGDHS, 1:22.42

Midget girls 800m

6. Amanda Smith, SGDHS, 3:11.87

Senior girls 800m

1. Kim Howitt, SGDHS, 2:45.10

Junior boys 800m

8. Jon Baldwin, SGDHS, 2:24.03

Midget girls 1500m

8. Amanda Smith, SGDHS, 7:50.00

Senior girls 1500m

2. Julie Putman, SGDHS, 5:21.51

Junior boys 1500m

8. Jon Baldwin, SGDHS, 5:00.12

Junior girls 3000m

4. Brittany Steinbach, GCC, 15:07.07

Senior girls 3000m

2. Julie Putman, SGDHS, 11:59.98

Junior boys 3000m

5. Brett Lee, GCC, 13:03.73

Junior girls 80m Hurdles

3. Kristina Godwin, SGDHS, 16.50

Junior girls 300m Hurdles

3. Amy Foster, SGDHS, 1:05.53

Open boys 2000m Steeplechase

4. Greg Farnsworth, GCC, 7:18.00

Junior boys Long Jump

6. Phil Black, SGDHS, 5.21m

Senior girls Long Jump

1. Kim Howitt, SGDHS, 4.90m

4. Erin Heibein, SGDHS, 4.60m

Midget girls High Jump

2. Maggie Hutton, SGDHS, 1.40m

Junior boys High Jump

6. Andrew Barr, GCC, 1.55m

Midget boys Pole Vault

1. Kevan Puddicomb, GCC, 2.30m

2. Mark Farnsworth, GCC, 2.30m

Junior boys Pole Vault

2. Blake Chauvin, GCC, 3.20m

4. Ho Yin Tang, GCC, 3.05m

7. Sabby Frye, GCC, 2.75m

Senior boys Pole Vault

3. Joseph Wong, GCC, 2.75m

4. Eric Phelan, GCC, 2.60m

Miget girls Javelin

5. Erin Knapp, SGDHS, 19.58m

Junior girls Javelin

4. Natasha James-Allard, SGDHS, 21.00m

Senior girls Javelin

1. Oksana Shebatkova, GCC, 25.80m

7. Heather Black, SGDHS, 18.30m

9. Katie Beatty, SGDHS, 15.52m

Junior boys Javelin

3. Shane Pettifer, SGDHS, 35.52m

5. Tony Kasprowicz, SGDHS, 32.56m

Senior boys Javelin

1. Kory Brontmire, SGDHS, 40.80m

4. Steve Laird, SGDHS, 33.94m

8. Shawn Bradford, SGDHS, 32.36m

Junior girls Discus

11. Natasha James-Allard, SGDHS, 12.96m

Senior girls Discus

4. Katie Beatty, SGDHS, 21.62m

9. Heather Black, SGDHS, 14.56m

Junior boys Discus

1. Shane Pettifer, SGDHS, 37.85m

Senior boys Discus

1. Shawn Bradford, SGDHS, 32.79m

4. Steve Laird, SGDHS, 23.02m

Midget girls Shot Put

4. Erin Knapp, SGDHS, 7.83m

Junior girls Shot Put

4. Joanna Ko, GCC, 7.25m

5. Natasha James-Allard, SGDHS, 7.24m

Senior girls Shot Put

1. Katie Beatty, SGDHS, 8.99m

6. Heather Black, SGDHS, 7.04m

Junior boys Shot Put

1. Shane Pettifer, SGDHS, 12.99m

Senior boys Shot Put

2. Kory Brontmire, SGDHS, 12.60m

3. Shawn Bradford, SGDHS, 12.48m

6. Steve Laird, SGDHS, 9.87m

Junior boys 4X100m Relay

4. GCC, 50.66

South Grenville junior girls team in soccer final

KEMPTVILLE - The South Grenville Giants senior and junior girls soccer teams each suffered losses to the North Grenville Knights last Tuesday in Kemptville.

However, South Grenville's seniors came up big last Thursday against the Brockville Collegiate Institute (BCI) Red Rams as they secured a scoreless draw.

"It was a strong defensive game," said coach Scott Baird. "We had our opportunities, but we kept missing wide. There was one shot where one of their fullbacks even cleared one off the (goal) line which we thought was a sure goal."

Ashley Weir had a strong game in goal in the defensive match-up.

The senior Giants were hindered by the wet conditions to fall short in a 3-2 loss to the KnightsKemptville.

South Grenville's speedy forward Sam Jodoin had both of South Grenville's goals in the match, while Weir did her best to control a wet and muddy ball in goal.

"It was very wet out there," said Baird. "They scored all three of their goals on balls that were not able to be controlled. They would pounce on the rebound for easy goals."

Baird was happy with South Grenville's performance at the game with a hard fought
comeback late which proved too late.

"They really didn't have to work for their goals," said Baird. "We really had to battle just to get our two. It's a shame."

With the tie and loss the senior Giants finished the season with a 2-2-4 record and took on the TISS Pirates yesterday in Brockville, with the winner to travel to Kemptville to take on North Grenville Thursday at 2 pm.

Juniors drop first of year

South Grenville's junior girls soccer team had a solid game despite coming up with the short end of the stick in a 3-1 loss to the North Grenville Knights.

Amanda Lavery scored the Giants lone goal, while Lindsay Biccum had a solid game in goal.

The defeat marked South Grenville's only loss of the season as it finished with a 5-1-1 record and will receive a bye to the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association final Thursday in Prescott.

The Giants will take on the winner of Tuesday's semi-final between TISS and North Grenville.

Boys rugby team clinches first place

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior boys rugby team continued to roll with its second consecutive shutout victory of the season.

The Giants hosted the Brockville Collegiate Institute (BCI) Red Rams last Wednesday in Prescott and came away with a 26-0 win to improve its record to 3-1 on the season - good enough for a three way tie for first place in the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association. The Giants will assume top spot for scoring the most points throughout the season.

South Grenville and BCI traded possessions early in the game before a flurry of big hits from the likes of Jason Desrosiers and Ben Forsythe awoke the sleeping Giants who were able to punch in a try from Desrosiers to give South Grenville a 8-0 lead at the half.

"It was a good first half for both teams," said coach Zach McGlynn. "It was very well fought and our guys showed some good rooking to take a lead."

South Grenville took control of the game in the second half stopping the Red Rams offensive advances to run roughshod extending its lead as Dustin Drury and Travis Cranmer led the Giants drives.

Alex Rees converted consecutive trys while Tyler Stephenson added a single before making four kicks for eight points.

"We neutralized their play and they became de-railed," said McGlynn. "It was a good win and gave us first place and home field advantage."

The Giants boys rugby team will open the playoffs taking on the fourth seeded Rideau District Lions team today (Wednesday) in the semi-final starting at 3 pm in Prescott.

Girls eke out playoff berth

South Grenville's girls rugby team continued its string of tough losses at home with a 5-0 loss to BCI last Wednesday and a 7-0 loss to Gananoque Secondary School Friday.

Against BCI, the girls played a very physical defensive game to nearly pull out a win.

"The ball possession was pretty equal," said coach Shaun Saunders. "We were able to keep them out of our end for the better part of the game, but it wasn't enough. It was a very defensive game."

Saunders considered the loss a good showing from his team.

"The forwards showed some solid rooking and mulling out there, while our backs used good ball movement," said Saunders. "We just didn't quite have enough."

The Giants continued with the defensive pressure Friday in Prescott against Gananoque as they fell 7-0.

South Grenville put up a very strong defensive effort, with some big hits and gutsy performances from its players.

The game was very back and forth until late in the second half. Gananoque was able to reverse a run which allowed them to punch in the game's only score to give South Grenville the loss.

With the pair of losses, the Giants can finish no lower than fourth place and have guaranteed themselves a playoff match-up on the road Wednesday.

Tennis club hosts senior games

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Tennis Club will be hosting
preliminary round games for the Ontario Senior Games this weekend.

Games will take place throughout the day Saturday and Sunday and is the first of three stages of play.

The club will also be holding a registration day May 31 from 9:30 am until 2 pm at the tennis courts, with social tennis and pizza scheduled for noon.

Domville Aces return to action after more than 25 years

DOMVILLE - Senior men's fastball is returning to South Grenville as the Domville Aces have come back for the first time since the early 1970s.

The team will be made up of players between the ages of 17 and 48 years old and has taken on the old Domville Aces name in hopes of building on the tradition.

The Aces will play in the North Leeds Men's Fastball League which has been around since the 1940s with Greenbush, Newborough, Seeley's Bay, Lyn and Landsdowne joining the Aces all battling it out for top spot.

The idea for the team had been bounced around for a couple of years and is now under way after starting as a family team where player coaches Charlie Murray and his brother-in-law Jeff June were looking for a place where they could play fastball alongside their sons Scott Murray and Derek June.

"We just wanted to get some ball back in the area for the kids in their 20s," said Murray. "My son and a bunch of the other guys I coached through minor and provincial ball were coming home for summers and had nowhere to play fastball since it was just old-timers and minor ball. There was nothing left for those guys."

Murray got in touch with many of his former players and was able to get enough interest to get a team back in the area after a long hiatus.

"After making some calls the guys were really interested, saying they'd love to get back into some ball," said Murray. "It's a good ball league and it's a start to getting fastball in the area back to what it used to be."

The league plays Thursday nights with occasional weekend games to make up the balance of the regular season schedule which will finish by Sept. 1 in order for all the college students to head back to school.

Murray expects the interest of fastball teams in the league from South Grenville to grow within the next few years.

"There are a lot of kids set to graduate from the minor fastball system in the next few years," said Murray. "Before this year the kids would have nowhere to go, so now they can continue with ball and the teams in the area can expand to the way it used to be."

Aces win fastball opener

GREENBUSH - The Domville Aces began their first year in the North Leeds Senior Men's Fastball League last Thursday with a 13-6 win over league powerhouse the Greenbush Generals.

"They're definitely one of the better teams in the league," said player/coach Charlie Murray. "The guys did great and I think we surprised a few people in our first game back since the '70s. It was nice to get a win."

Derek June led the way for the Aces, going three-for-three to score three runs and two triples. Devin Payne chipped in with three singles, while Tom Lovegrove had two singles, one run scored and Derek Prosser had a home run. Scott Murray, Tyler Beach, Charlie Murray, Jeff June and Eric Fowler each had singles.

Keith Fowler was the winning pitcher allowing one hit while striking out two in two innings of play.

The Aces' next home game will take place in Domville Thursday at 8:30 pm

AAA Bulldogs fall short of title

CARDINAL - The 1993 Kriska Bulldogs AAA fell short of defending its Outaouais Tournament title.

The Bulldogs opened the tournament with a 2-2 tie with the Ottawa Valley Selects. Ben Hutton scored both Bulldogs goals.

Kriska then exploded for a 12-0 win over the host Outaouais club. Cory Wilson (2), Ryan Van Stralen (2), Logan Giesbrecht (2), Jarrett Williams (2), Ronnie Henderson, Dylan Rodgers and Hutton had the Bulldogs goals, while Harrison (2), Lucas Stitt (2), Russell Hinch (2), Kyle Adams (2), and Lee Charlesbois (2) each had helpers.

Kriska continued on its hot streak with a 7-3 win over USA Metro, with Rodgers (2), Hinch, Hutton, Williams, Clark Seymour and Tanner Benton scoring the Bulldogs goals. Van Stralen chipped in with three assists.

The Bulldogs managed a 2-2 tie with the Young Senators to end the preliminary round undefeated.

Williams and Rodgers had Kriska's goals in the win.

In the semi-final Kriska dropped down 2-0 and battled back to tie the game at three, before taking a penalty in the final two minutes in the game which allowed KPR to score.

Hinch had a pair of goals for the Bulldogs, while Benton added a single.

Other members of the Bulldogs were John Keane, Jason Defevres, Jarrett Pitt, and Richard Joudoin

Prescott soccer league searching for U-8 and U-16 coaches

PRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Minor Soccer Association is searching for coaches for teams in the Under-8 and Under-16 divisions.

The season started this week with practices with more practices scheduled for next week.

PDSA President Rob Carr suggested the ideal situation for coaches with limited experience in soccer would be a pair of parents sharing the duties.

Under-8 teams will play Tuesday and Thursday nights, while Under-16 teams will play Wednesday nights.

Those interested in volunteering should contact Rob Carr at 925-1396.

South Grenville Giants hosting junior girls soccer finals

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants junior girls soccer team has clinched top spot in the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association.

The Giants finished the regular season with a 5-1-1 record to finish first place in the regular season and earned the right to host
the finals starting at 2 pm tomorrow in Prescott.

The Giants received a bye to the final and will take on the winner of yesterday's semi-final match-up between the TISS Pirates and North Grenville Knights.

The Giants are looking for redemption after suffering their first loss of the season.

Prescott Golf Club set for busy schedule in next couple weeks

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Golf Club is preparing for a very busy two weeks of action.

The Big Brothers golf tournament starts off the schedule Friday, with men's Qualifying set to take place Saturday and Mixed Captain and Crew on Sunday.

The Men's Qualifying will continue May 31 and Ladies and Men's Qualifying to continue June 8 before the club's first major tournament of the year the annual Hall of Fame tournament June 14.

Tournament spots are sure to fill up fast.

For more information contact the pro shop at 925-5370.

All content is copyright 2001 The Prescott Journal. No reproduction permitted without written permission.