VOL. 173, NO.24~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ JUNE 4, 2003

Feds renew funding for Prescott Blossoms

Second edition of program begins 26-week run this month

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The Prescott Blossoms program has been renewed for a second season.

Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) is providing funding of almost $150,000 from its Skills Link Program, it was announced Monday. Ten participants will receive work experience and develop skills during the 26-week program that begins later this month.

Nine young adults graduated from the first edition of Prescott Blossoms that completed its half-year run in February. "We had a great team last year," said project co-ordinator Mike Laking.

Astrid Strader returns as project controller for Prescott Blossoms 2003, Laking noted. Sue Hiltz and Deborah Smith will serve as project directors. Hiltz is a former head gardener in Brockville; Smith is artistic director of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.

The festival is one of the project partners; the others are the Town of Prescott and the Rotary Club of Prescott.

Smith said this year's participants will perform a variety of duties, including handing out programs and meeting and greeting audience members at performances of The Tempest this June and July at the amphitheatre. Prescott Blossoms participants will also do crowd control and assist with set construction and stage management.

Janice Spencer has been hired as the program's field and administrative assistant.

Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn said at a news conference Monday night he and council are thrilled and delighted the program will return after being "so highly successful" last year. Much of that program was devoted to the Heritage River Trail area where new pathways were created and dozens of trees and bushes were planted.

Laking said the waterfront will serve as a training area for this year's edition of Prescott Blossoms. He added there is still some donated money left over from last year's program for trees in the waterfront area near Fort Wellington.

The first set of participants also gave facelifts to some park areas in town and designed storefront plantings as well as learned about nutrition, cooking and job-readiness.

Laking indicated 82 per cent of last year's participants are now employed full-time.

To be eligible for this year's Prescott Blossoms, candidates must be between the ages of 16 and 30 and be Ontario Works recipients. Anyone interested in applying should do so at the Ontario Works office in Prescott.

Laking said interviews will likely be held early next week. Successful candidates are expected to begin their duties the week of June 16.

HRDC provided about $147,000 in funding to the first edition of Prescott Blossoms. Laking noted an estimated $179,000 worth of in-kind donations of materials and services is expected as part of the second phase of the program.

"I am really looking forward to seeing what we can accomplish this year," he stated.

Laking also noted Monday night Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan had been helpful in the effort to secure program funding. Jordan was unable to attend the press conference.

THIS WEEK

Town opts to withdraw from parking contract

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has decided to end its agreement with the Corps of Commissionaires for parking enforcement in downtown Prescott.

Council agreed at a budget meeting last Wednesday to get out of the existing contract. The Commissionaires were paid about $9,100 in 2002; ticket revenue for the year was less than half that amount.

As of press time, it was unclear when the parking enforcement arrangement would end.

Most of the parking revenue dried up two years ago when council agreed to have meters removed in favour of free two-hour parking in the downtown core.

Although Commissionaires will no longer be enforcing parking regulations, council retained the full-year amount of $9,100 in the 2003 budget approved Monday. The town has not developed an alternate enforcement plan. It was noted some of the excess funds could be used for bylaw enforcement measures.

St. John's church hosts Evening of Jazz Friday

PRESCOTT ­ An Evening of Jazz with Avalon Motel and friends will take place this Friday, June 6 at 7:30 pm at St. John's Anglican Church, corner of Centre and James streets.

The event will feature the musical 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 event will go to St. John's in Prescott and St. James Anglican Church 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.

Town donates $4,000 to physician recruitment

PRESCOTT ­ The town has matched its 2002 donation to the Leeds-Grenville physician recruitment program.

This year's municipal budget, which was approved by Prescott council Monday night, includes a provision of $4,000 for the campaign aimed at bringing general practitioners and specialists to the united counties.

Pool rates unchanged

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has opted not to increase pool fees.

A motion to implement a revised fee structure submitted by Community Services Director Randy Pelehos was voted down by council Monday night.

The proposal would have seen some fees remain unchanged, with others increasing by up to 20 per cent.

Town budget includes residential tax hike totalling 1.65 per cent

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has approved its 2003 budget that calls for a modest increase in residential and commercial property taxes.

The budget, approved Monday night, includes an overall residential tax rate increase of 1.65 per cent in those two taxation areas. The municipal levy is 4.65 per cent higher than it was in 2002, but this year's education portion of the property tax bill decreased.

Councillor Jim French, chairman of the town's finance committee, said he is hopeful the citizens of Prescott will appreciate that council has not "...raised taxes that much." French pointed out industrial tax rates are down this year as part of a three-year effort (which ends this year) to bring industrial rates in Prescott to the provincial average.

Although the change to industrial rates contributes to higher residential tax rates this year, French explained any tax increase next year would be shared by the industrial sector.

As for the 2003 tax bill, the owner of a residential property with an assessed value of $100,000 will pay $30.58 more than what a $100,000 property cost in taxes last year.

This year's municipal levy for the $100,000 property is just under $1,544; the education portion is an additional $335, bringing the total to just under $1,879.

"That is not too large of an increase," said French, who added council worked diligently during a budget process he described as quite hard.

Mayor Robert Lawn also noted this year's budget deliberations were not an entirely pleasant task.

Commercial property taxes will increase by 0.77 per cent in 2003. Industrial rates are lower by between 7.6 and 10 per cent.

The town budget includes property tax revenue of more than $3.4 million and operating expenses of more than $6.6 million.

Most municipal services will see little or no change as a result of the 2003 budget.

In terms of proposed road repairs, several projects are on the to-do list for 2003. They include portions of King Street between West and Edward streets. The south section of the Edward Street overpass, St. Lawrence and George streets south of King, Douglas Drive and the intersection of Boundary Street and Churchill Road.

Council agreed last week to make what the mayor described as "a symbolic gesture" by adding about $150 to Tourism Prescott's budget. The town had been asked by the volunteer organization to reconsider a request from council to cut one per cent from last year's municipal tourism grant of more than $17,000.

Downtown icon closes the books after 30 years as store owner

Lane's Smoke Shop is now under new ownership

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT ­ Larmour Stephenson is calling it a day at Lane's Smoke Shop in downtown Prescott.

The owner of the King Street West store has sold the business he has operated for 30 years, and what has been a fixture in town for at least 65 years.

Lane's has remained essentially unchanged for decades in terms of the name, type of stock and the look of the interior.

"I never changed much," said Stephenson, who is retiring for health reasons. "I maybe added more of what was here - that's about all." Besides the expected cigarettes, tobacco products and news stand items, the store carries cold drinks, ice cream, food staples, household supplies and hard-to-find items, such as yo-yo strings and crockinole buttons.

Stephenson, 65 and a resident of Maynard, recalls delivering milk to Lane's for Prescott Dairies when he was a teenager. He noted he has changed little of the decor since then. "It's just the way it was," he said. His wife, Edna, assisted in the operation of the store.

Plenty of "long hours and lots of work" are what Stephenson emphasizes as the secret for the store's success.

"As far as I'm concerned, the owner's got to be in the store."

The smoke shop has always been well known for its array of penny candy on the counter and homemade cinnamon jaw breakers.

The traditional candies, like Licorice All Sorts, black licorice pipes and Swedish berries, compete for space on the counter with the candy mall rats, gummy fangs and green thumbs.

The penny candy counter remains a magnet for children who can have a small paper bag filled with treats of their choice.

The cinnamon jaw breakers, sold from November to March, are now made by Karen Hoogwerf of Cardinal. She follows a recipe similar to that of Harold Whitney, who passed it on to his older sister and previous store owner, Myrtle Lane.

June Stretton of Prescott worked in her Aunt Myrtle's store during the late 1930s. She remembers her aunt making the candy by hand at the back of the store in a copper pot on a pot-belly stove and marble slab using cinnamon oil from India.

Mrs. Lane operated the store until it was turned over in about 1966 to Carl Galbraith.

Galbraith operated the store for about two years before reselling it to Mrs. Lane, who then sold it to Pat Kingston. Stephenson purchased the store from Kingston April 15, 1973.

The store's newest owners, Harold and Norma Steinburg of Prescott, plan to keep things much the same. "It worked for Larmour; hopefully, it will for me," Mr. Steinburg said.

Any updating of the decor will take the store back to a more old-fashioned and traditional feel, rather than modern, he explained. Extra services for regular customers will remain, he said, as will the store's reputation as a social gathering spot. Full-time employee Cindy Covill will also continue at Lane's.

OPP BRIEFS

Overpass mischief can be dangerous

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Grenville County OPP have received reports of youths throwing items from Highway 401 overpasses.

Serious consequences could occur if passing motorists are affected by such acts of mischief. Anyone caught throwing rocks or other objects from overpasses could face charges of mischief or criminal negligence. Police note driving while maintaining proper attention at speeds travelled on the 401 is difficult enough without the added burden of unnecessary distractions or dangers.

Notify police immediately if someone is observed dropping items from overpasses.

ATV stolen from Brouseville Road residence

EDWARDSBURGH ­ An all-terrain vehicle was taken from a Brouseville Road residence sometime during the overnight hours of May 27-28.

The stolen unit is a 2001 Polaris Sportsman 400. Constable Pergunas is the investigating officer.

Augusta Township seeking public input on official plan

MAYNARD ­ A public open house and meeting to review Augusta Township's proposed new official plan has been scheduled for Thursday, June 26.

An open house will take place between 3 and 6 pm at the Maitland recreation hall on McLean Blvd. The plan's consultant will be available to provide information and to answer questions. A public meeting to consider the plan follows at 7 pm at the same location.

The official plan applies to all lands within the township, and sets out policies for growth and development for the next 20 years. Among the sections covered, the plan encourages the development of a variety of uses in hamlets such as Maynard, Domville, Algonquin, North Augusta, Maitland and Roebuck. Uses could include residential, commercial, industrial, home-based businesses, garden suites and public services.

Additional information is available at the Maynard municipal office and in an ad that appears in this newspaper.

Ottawa woman caught passing bogus currency at businesses in Prescott

Police remind public to keep eye out for counterfeiters

PRESCOTT ­ An arrest has been made in connection with counterfeit currency being passed at businesses in town last week.

The Prescott Police Service were notified Thursday a young woman was passing bogus bills at Beach Home Hardware, Ultramar and Tim Hortons. Manal Ibrahim, 18, of Ottawa was arrested and charged with uttering counterfeit money. Six $20 bills were seized; the serial numbers involved are PJP4116491, JJW8186199 and WWJ9186698.

It is believed a male suspect was in the area waiting in a vehicle. Ibrahim was released on conditions to appear in court at a later date. Chief Bryan Somerville is investigating.

On the same day, police received a report that a counterfeit $5 bill (serial number ANY2996106) had been passed at Giant Tiger. The man who tendered the bill was spoken to, and it was determined he had no criminal involvement; he had received the bill by chance at an unknown location. Constable Mike Lapensee is investigating.

Information provided by witnesses as part of a counterfeit currency investigation conducted in May by Constable Darren Davis resulted in a vehicle being traced to the Ottawa area. After being contacted by Davis, the Ottawa Police Service and the RCMP investigated and executed a search warrant leading to the seizure of approximately $100,000 in counterfeit currency.

Police rely on the public's help with such things as descriptions of those who pass bogus bills as well as related vehicles and licence plate numbers. It appears businesses in the Edward Street north area are being targeted, according to the municipal police service; most suspects are from out of town and are passing through on Highway 401.

Other cases

Officers with the Prescott Police Service investigated 62 incidents during the week of May 26.

On that date, police received a report of a South Grenville District High School student threatening another student. Cory Kirkland, 18, of RR3 Brockville was arrested and charged with uttering a threat. He was released on conditions and will appear in court at a later date. Constable Shawn Steinburg is investigating.

Tools and compressor parts were stolen from the storage shed at Sandy Hill Cemetery. The theft was reported May 28; Constable Richard Champagne is the investigating officer.

On May 29, police received a report from a Roberta Crescent woman that she had been harassed by her former common-law spouse. The harassment has been ongoing, an investigation revealed. A 27-year-old Prescott man was arrested and charged with criminal harassment. He was released on conditions and will make a court appearance at a later date. Constable Terry Foster is investigating.

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.

OPP donates seized goods to high school

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The OPP's Grenville County detachment showed that crime doesn't pay as it donated an estimated $3,000 worth of equipment seized in drug busts to South Grenville District High School.

"All the items were seized as result of the execution of drug warrants," said Detective Constable Jason Butcher. "They were forfeited to the crown as a result of court proceedings. All the items were used in the cultivation of marijuana."

The OPP, in turn, offered some of the seized items to the high school for use in some of their classrooms.

Butcher estimated the donated items would be valued at roughly $3,000, but couldn't be precise since some of the equipment was older.

South Grenville District High School special education teacher Walter McWilliams was on hand to accept the items on behalf of the school; he said they will serve many purposes at the school.

"A good portion of the items will be used in the science and developmentally challenged classrooms," said McWilliams. "The developmentally challenged class looks after the school garden in the courtyard of the school and will use a lot of the equipment to grow seedlings."

McWilliams was quick to point out the entire school would reap the benefits of the donation.

"The tech department will probably use some of the lights; the science classes will use some lights and trays," said McWilliams. "There are some items such as fans, power bars and extension cords which will be used around the school which are a great help."

McWilliams credited the school's relationship with the OPP as a great thing and key reason for the donation.

"It's fantastic of them to allow us to have some of these items so they don't go to waste," said McWilliams. "They've been great partners with the school."

Town officials acknowledge something has to be done about Prescott Web site

PRESCOTT ­ Updating the town's Web site is a priority, according to municipal officials.

Prescott.ca was launched with much fanfare last July. The town spent about $25,000 on the project, which marked the consolidation of a number of sites involving the municipality.

However, the revamped site has not been updated since last summer. The plan was to train a small number of town staff to do the updating. Personnel changes and other issues have pushed the Web site project aside in recent months, according to CAO/Clerk Robert Haller.

There is also a dispute between the municipality and eSolutions Group, the Waterloo, Ontario firm that designed Prescott.ca. The company is seeking more money to complete the training and update pages, town officials reported at a budget meeting last Wednesday night.

Their understanding of the agreement is different, and council members appear unwilling to make additional payments to eSolutions.

"I know we need to get a handle on this," said Haller, who noted the Web site is a valuable tool for tourism, economic development and other areas.

In addition to reviewing the situation with eSolutions, it has been suggested the town take control of the situation by bringing in some other firm to deal with the Web site issue.

Some council members expressed their disappointment the problem has dragged on for so long, especially since so much money was spent to create the new Web site.

"That didn't work out right," Councillor Garry Dewar said.

Family Coalition candidate chosen

LEEDS-GRENVILLE ­ North Grenville resident Melody Trolly will represent the Family Coalition Party of Ontario in the next provincial election.

The former Christian book store owner, whose four sons were home-schooled, believes the government should encourage families to be involved in the education process. This includes the right for parents to choose the method of instruction best-suited to the family's needs; this is a party policy.

The Family Coalition platform is based on the fundamental rights of life, freedom and ownership of property and on the values of integrity, accountability and responsibility.

Bookmark Day returns next week

PRESCOTT ­ Buy a bookmark later this week and support hospitals in Brockville.

Volunteers will be selling bookmarks in Prescott Friday, May 13. Locations include all three banks, O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer, Canadian Tire, Beach Home Hardware, Giant Tiger and the post offices.

Proceeds from bookmark sales will be divided equally between Brockville General and St. Vincent de Paul hospitals.

New chapter being written as annual Edwardsburgh garden tour nears

Fundraiser for Spencerville library set for this Saturday

EDWARDSBURGH ­ The time has come to hit the road and see what is growing out there.

The Friends of the Edwardsburgh Public Library will once again be presenting the annual event that showcases several properties in the township area. The public is invited to visit each site and see what other people are doing with their garden areas.

This year's garden tour stops include:

* 2019 Ventnor Road (Yvonne and Irwin Throop)

* 1323 Jordan Road (Michelle and Richard McGuire)

* 525 Pittston Road (Angie and Gord Knights)

* 2377 Totem Ranch Road West (John and Loree Burley)

* 10249 Irvine Road (McField's Nursery)

* 5 Henderson Street (Spencerville library)

Each site has something different to offer. For example, musicians will be performing at the McGuires' property from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm.

The Throops have carved their own garden creations out of the bush and the banks of a drainage ditch beside their home. A foot bridge helps turn what once was just another lot into a gardening showcase at the edge of the woods.

"It's a pleasant pastime," Mr. Throop said.

Tickets for the tour can be purchased at the Edwardsburgh Lions Den on County Road 44 just south of Spencerville. Children under the age of 12 will be admitted free of charge. Tour participants can start at any site and travel the circuit at their own pace.

In addition to distributing garden tour tickets, the Lions Den will be the site of a plant sale from 8 am to 3 pm. A large selection of perennials and bedding plants will be available.

A Three O'Clock Tea will be held at the Lions Den Saturday afternoon. Host gardeners will be acknowledged at that time, and door prizes will be presented to garden tour visitors.

A portion of the proceeds from the events will be used to maintain gardens and programs at the Spencerville library. Proceeds from the 2002 tour helped make the gardens around the library become a reality.

Prescott showpiece celebrates first anniversary as residence for seniors

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT ­ A multi-million-dollar investment in Prescott is being marked this summer with the first anniversary of the creation of an upscale independent seniors residence.

Robert and Teresa Pelda, now residents of Prescott, purchased a historic King Street West home and turned the waterfront residence into a showpiece for Prescott, said Mr. Pelda, the majority shareholder in the enterprise.

Wiser Hall is an exclusive retirement residence for independent living offering a relaxed lifestyle for active seniors 55 or over. There are eight spacious and private rooms, seven of which are now occupied. The residence also offers communal spaces and activity rooms, fireplaces, games and hobby rooms, formal dining and living areas, fitness room, garden room overlooking the river, private beach, gazebo, two acres of landscaped parkland, and other amenities.

Mr. Pelda credits his wife Teresa, the general manager, and the staff for making the venture a success. Mr. Pelda said he's proud of the great staff who deserve special recognition and "who work hard to make it all happen."

The owner also emphasized the excellent quality of food and care as being cornerstones to the success of the operation. "The quality, ambiance and wellness is there," he said. "It's not institutional at all. It's just a good place to be."

In noting as well the quality of furnishings, space per unit and attractive grounds, Mr. Pelda added "It's a great showpiece for Prescott; it's something we can be proud of."

Mr. Pelda said he has also noticed an improvement in the quality of life and longevity of the residents, who have moved to Wiser Hall from many areas, including Ottawa, Brockville, Roebuck and Alberta.

In the past year, the couple has also purchased Prescott's Mayfield Retirement Residence, which Mr. Pelda described as a more mid-level seniors home with 47 rooms.

There are 35 staff members who share duties at the two residences, and Mr. Pelda said most of the goods required by the homes are purchased locally. "Very little goes outside of Prescott," he said.

The Pelda's local purchases, property improvements and staffing represent an approximate $2.5-million investment in the town, he said, noting about $1.7 million in equity was provided by shareholders.

Delta maple syrup recalled

DELTA ­ Maple syrup sold by a producer in Delta this spring has been recalled because it may be contaminated with lead.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) issued a warning in May that syrup sold by George Laming of RR 1 Delta and Jersey Oakes Farm should not be consumed.

The manufacturer voluntarily recalled the affected product from the marketplace. It was packaged in various types and sizes of containers with the either the producer's name or farm name on identification stickers.

The syrup was found to contain high levels of lead. Continued exposure to elevated levels of lead can cause damage to the central nervous system, kidneys and blood, according to a Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit news release. Children are particularly at risk.

For more information, consumers and industry can call Laming at (613) 928-2994, or CFIA at 1-800-442-2342.

Two vehicles collide head-on

EDWARDSBURGH ­ Four people were taken to hospital following a two-vehicle collision that occurred late Monday afternoon on County Road 22 just north of Highway 401.

Grenville County OPP report a northbound Dodge Dakota pick-up driven by a 46-year-old Crystal Rock man apparently crossed the centre line and struck a southbound Honda Element head-on. The Honda was being driven by a 37-year-old woman; her 11-year-old daughter and eight-year-old son were also in the vehicle.

The woman and children were taken to Brockville General Hospital where they were treated and released. The man remains in hospital with serious injuries, including a broken vertebrae in his back.

Alcohol has not been ruled out as a factor in the crash, according to a police news release issued Tuesday. Constable McDade is investigating; witnesses are being asked to contact the OPP at the Prescott detachment (925-4221).

Jewels shine as Rebekahs honour long-time members

PRESCOTT ­ Many long-time members of the Rebekahs were honoured Sunday afternoon at Friendship Hall in Prescott.

Wellington Lodge #108 hosted a luncheon for the members of the fraternal order. A number of Rebekah leaders from the provincial level attended the event.

Long-serving members receive a Jewel at five-year intervals.

Jewels were presented to the following Rebekahs:

65 Years: Stella Gagon

60 Years: Lottie Buffam, Ida Darby

55 Years: Greta Cardiff, Laura Goodin, Betty Howley, Lola Mitchell, Isabelle Roberts

50 Years: Geneva Odell

45 Years: Ann Thompson

40 Years: Helen Barr, Rebecca Lama

35 Years: Muriel Francis, Sharon Magee

30 Years: Corrie Laushway, Georgina Saunders

25 Years: Sherian Astleford, Viola McFadden, Norma Throop

20 Years: Evelyn Boisvert (posthumously), Lois Gilmer, Clara Marchand, Beverley Willer

15 Years: Ilene Tristram

The Rebekahs, an affiliate of the International Order of Odd Fellows, has maintained a presence in Prescott for generations.

Come and get stuck on quilting classes

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

We still have room for new quilters Thursday afternoon. This is a great opportunity to learn a new craft. Since you can use our equipment, the cost is minimal. Please call 925-5300 for more information. The first class is tomorrow at 1 pm.

The diabetic society will have a support group meeting here at Walker House on Monday, June 9 at 6:30 pm.

We appreciate everyone who came to help on Friday. A lot of corners were sorted before we shared a delicious lunch.

Board members are reminded of their meeting on Monday, June 9 at 10 am.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Mary Singleton; 2nd, Valerie Schulz; door prize, Richard Kingston. Fun bridge ­ 1st, Wanda Wilson. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Marjorie Kingston; 2nd, Ruth Britnell; door, Joyce Nesbitt. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Eddie Arcand; 2nd, Alice Crowder; 3rd, Pat McPhee and Jessie Shaver; door, Mary Reynolds.

Optimist Club honours volunteers of the year

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville and District Optimist Club handed out its volunteer awards last Wednesday night at the Drummond Building in Spencerville.

Spencerville resident Molly Faessen and North Edwardsburgh Public School student Cody Clark were awarded the club's volunteer of the year and junior volunteer of the year awards respectively.

"Both of these people have done a lot for the community," said club member and event organizer Jim Purcell. "They both certainly deserve the awards."

Faessen, an active member of the community, has been involved in many endeavors since moving to the area in 1967. She operated Windmill Gardens in Spencerville with her husband Martin until last year and is most notably known for her involvement with the local Brownies, Guides, Pathfinders and Rangers scouting groups.

Faessen has also been involved with fundraising for the South Grenville District High School Band as well as being a swimming and aqua-fit teacher to many of the residents of the area.

Last year, Faessen was awarded for her volunteer efforts with a Queen's Jubilee Medal.

Faessen was quick to credit her husband in helping with her efforts.

"I really think this award went to the wrong person," said Faessen. "It really should go to my husband Martin for putting up with me and all my projects.

"Guiding is my first love, but I've also enjoyed my many other volunteering experiences and this award is a great honour."

Clark, 8, has been active in volunteering and fundraising since the age of five. He was overwhelmed with the support shown for his family which was battling through health problems.

At five he raised $24,000 for Jump Rope for Heart, and in June 2002 Clark travelled to area schools to talk to students and got 2,500 signatures to try to keep CHEO's Cardiac Care Unit in Ottawa open.

Last fall, Clark started Cody's Individual Care Kits to be given to children under 16 years old at the Kemptville District Hospital, with more than 30 kits already handed out and enough items to complete another 30 kits.

A shy Clark thanked the club before letting his mother speak for him.

"We'd like to thank the Optimists for this award," said Jan Clark on behalf of her son. "Cody's teachers and his principals have been a great help and the community has shown so much support; Thank you."

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

Runners are on their way

to All-Ontaro track meet

Maitland runners Geoff Millard and Matt Millard will be travelling to St. Catharines this week to compete in the All-Ontario track and field meet.

Geoff, who attends Thousand Islands Secondary School, won two gold medals at the Provincial East Regional Track and Field Meet. Millard won first place in the midget men's 800 metres and 1,500 metres.

Matt, who also attends TISS, placed fourth in the junior men's 1,500-metre race to qualify for a berth at this week's All-Ontario meet.

Senior's luncheon

The VON Seniors' Luncheon will be held Wednesday, June 11 at MERC Hall. Call the VON office at 342-3693 by Monday, June 9 to confirm your attendance

The Augusta Township Library Board decided at its May meeting to proceed with siding the building. The board decided to replace the painted plywood exterior, which is in need of paint, with a vertical style vinyl siding that is maintenance free. The work should be completed in July.

Enjoy family fun at workshop

PRESCOTT ­ A free interactive adult-child workshop entitled Cheap and Cheerful Family Fun will take place this Saturday, June 7 from 10 am to noon at O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer Community Centre.

The event is being held in conjunction with the Early Years Centre. For more information, call the centre in Prescott at 925-4975.

The public is invited to explore the world through the eyes of a child. June 2-8 is Safe Kids Week.

Used equipment can be taken to police station

SOUTH GRENVILLE - The Prescott Police Service, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit has joined forces with Safe Kids Canada to get people to bring in old or broken children's safety equipment for disposal.

June 2-8 is Safe Kids Week. Walkers, cribs, safety gates, car seats, strollers, high chairs, change tables, playpens, bath seats, toys and bike/hockey helmets are all being collected for disposal and can be dropped off this week at the Prescott Police Station at the corner of Centre and Henry streets.

Canadian homes are full of products designed to help parents raise their children safely. For children under nine years old, home is the most common place for injuries to occur. In children under the age of four years old, 75 per cent of injuries happen in the home; for children between five and nine, 40 per cent of injuries happen in the home

Those seeking more information on the children's safety drive should contact the district health unit at 345-5685 or 1-800-660-5853 or go online and visit the organization's Web site at www.healthunit.org.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I really think this award went to the wrong person. It really should go to my husband Martin for putting up with me and all my projects."

Molly Faessen, commenting on the Optimist Club recognition for her volunteer work

Editor's Notebook

THE RETURN OF BLOSSOMS: We welcome news that the federal government has decided to renew Prescott Blossoms for a second term.

The first version which began last August and concluded in February of this year pumped new life into a portion of the Heritage River Trail area near Fort Wellington, helped make other park areas and the downtown more attractive and, most importantly, gave a group of young adults a valuable combination of job work experience and new or refined skills with which most of the participants have been able to secure full-time employment.

It should be noted the benefits far exceed what the program participants will learn during their half-year experience. A project supervisor and assistant will be hired; a consulting firm was hired for a few weeks at the beginning and end of the previous edition of Prescott Blossoms.

If there is one thing about federal job programs we may question, it would be the amount of money spent on administration or actually delivering the program to participants. The quality of the work or the abilities of those who perform those tasks is not in doubt; local people should be paid the going rate just like anyone delivering the same product in downtown Toronto or Lake of the Woods.

However, there are those who would wonder if paying a consulting firm what amounts to $425 per day to teach nine students over a nine-day period such things as how to write resumes, prepare for job interviews and learn effective uses of the computer is the most effective use of taxpayers' money. However, there is no questioning the overall value of the program to both participants and the town as a whole.

With the participation of other government agencies and local service clubs, Prescott Blossoms is a community project. By taking care of some unfinished business in the heritage trail area and pitching in with the upcoming St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival, this year's program participants will have an immediate and possibly long-term effect on tourism opportunities in the Fort Town. Even if there were sceptics in the beginning, it has become clear Prescott Blossoms has become much more than just some government make-work project.

The town needs whatever help it can get; putting aside party politics and general cynicism about bureaucracy and motives, the federal government at least deserves some credit for providing a chance for Prescott to invest in its future.

SPACE CONSTRAINTS: With all the requests for photos and other coverage we have received the past couple of weeks, The Journal has more material than it has space in which to place it this week. We plan to run all those photos and articles as soon as possible, and thank you for your patience.

Tim Ruhnke

Just like the Ottawa Senators, I was close but no cigar

THE NEW GUY by Tim Ruhnke

A recent trip to Ottawa for what ended up being a disastrous appearance on the New RO had a silver lining. The Stanley Cup was in the studio as part of the segment prior to mine. Actually, all the segments at the top of the show were devoted to hockey: a phone interview with the most successful coach in National Hockey League history, Scotty Bowman; an in-studio interview with former NHLer and Ottawa Senator Brad Marsh; and some quality time with Lord Stanley's Cup and its handler.

But it was the Cup that drew the attention of everyone in the NewRO/ CHUM Radio environment. Staff assembled around the cup as the live broadcast began a few metres away. It was obvious they were drawn to the mystique of what has become the most recognizable and distinct award in professional sports. At one point the floor director had to shoo away the curious TV and radio types because they were proving to be a bit of a distraction to those who were taking part in the live telecast.

After the Stanley Cup segment was over, the staff assembled once again to catch a final glimpse of the Cup. Some even followed as the handler wheeled the Cup away to its next appearance. As the entourage passed by as I headed for my interview area, I realized I was only about one metre from the trophy that is, for most Canadians, an essential part of our collective identity. This was the first time I had been so close to this national icon, and what a great chance to really take a closer look at the names of those who have achieved the ultimate. Unfortunately, I came to this conclusion with no time to spare. (The Cup was heading one way as I was heading the other.) I could have reached out to touch it, but for some reason I could not force myself to do so. I just watched the Cup roll away ­ not unlike Senators fans did two weeks later.

Sure, I picked the Devils to beat Ottawa and then go on to win the Cup. In all honesty, though, part of me was hoping the Senators would finally come through big in the playoffs and bring home the Cup. Seeing the Cup as it tours the country is one thing; laying claim to it for an entire season is another. Besides, I would like one more chance to spend a few quality moments with Lafleur, Orr and all the other guys who rose to the top and got to hoist the Cup for all the hockey world to see.

Work begins on renovation of Canadian Coast Guard base

FROM THE ARCHIVES

June 4, 1953

* Climaxed by an aerial display of fireworks that thrilled the 4,000 people who turned the Fort Field into a sea of humanity, Prescott's Coronation Day celebration was something that will not be forgotten by young or old for some time. Other activities included a huge parade with bands, church services and the presentation of special commemorative medals to school children.

It was generally conceded Prescott was the best decorated town along the front, as entire blocks were decorated with bunting, store windows were beautifully arranged, and flags flew from windows, rooftops, flag poles and other vantage points throughout the town.

June 6, 1973

* Home delivery of mail in Prescott is just around the corner, according to information received by Grenville-Carleton MP Walter Baker from the postmaster general. There are now 1,400 mail boxes rented at the post office, and there is a waiting list.

* Gloria Holmes and John MacDonald were chosen as South Grenville District High School's top athletes at the school's awards dinner. Both are Grade 12 students and active in sports, especially track and field.

June 1, 1983

* Work on the roughly $8-million facelift at Prescott's Coast Guard base has already begun with the construction of a heated storage facility. Work on the 35,000-square-foot main office building, which will replace the aging red brick building, is expected to begin Nov. 15. The structure, built in 1903, won't be torn down until the new building is complete. The proposed structure will be built where the parking lot and storage yard are now.

District Manager Cal Drake said the old building, which ran 120 feet along King Street and was 60 feet deep, is costly to keep up and not energy efficient. While the new building will have less floor space, it will be better organized and more efficient.

* Branch 97 of the Royal Canadian Legion elected its 1983 executive. They are Mary Alice Pittman, Hilton Vout, Susan Visser, John T. Murdock, Jim Lockett, Les Dunn, Jim Smith, President Al Babcock, Eric McFee, Joyce McKinnon, Roy Grant, Roseanne Phillips and Carl Galbraith.

Big Sam convincing winner in wilderness feline-fox staredown

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

One would think that if a cat and a fox encountered each other in the midst of a strip of meadow both considered to be their exclusive territory in the wilds on the fringe of Riverview Heights that the cat would high-tail it up the nearest tree and leave the fox to have his own way. We thought of no other scenario until last week when, from the vantage point of our deck, we witnessed a wild-tame encounter that ended in a dramatic standoff.

The adversaries were our neighbour's cat Sam, a 17-pound, marmalade coloured, de-tommed, patient stalker and hunter, who keeps our backyards free of mice, moles, slow rabbits and other cats, and who dutifully carts his catch of the day to owners Jeff and Jane Dukelow's back door as his payment for room and board.

Although Sam meows a few notes higher than he did a few years ago when he met with the vet in an attempt to cure him of his midnight marauding, he has had no trouble making our tree-bordered adjoining back yards his exclusive domain. His entertainment value, at times, has been invaluable as we would watch him silently and sometimes motionlessly, stalk an unsuspecting field mouse for an hour before launching his fatal pounce. We would turn to Sam's work at hand whenever we got tired of watching the grass grow in our backyard this spring, a time-consuming task indeed.

Another frequent traveller on this stretch of forest-bordered yard has been a fox, whose lair is in the apple orchard at Hawthorn Farms about half a kilometre east of Sam's yard. The fox makes two or three trips across the backyard each day and it never dawned on us that he and Sam would someday encounter each other.

The inevitable happened about 5:15 one afternoon last week. We were testing some mind-altering liquids on our back deck at the time when we were startled by a cacophony of strange yells, howls, hisses and snarls.

When our eye focussed on these noises we zeroed in on Sam and the fox, both in a crouch with their tails twitching, but in an otherwise motionless standoff about 10 feet apart down near our forest and just a few yards from our compost pile, Sam's favourite source of protein. We figure Sam must have been on a silent stakeout when the homebound fox passed by too closely and startled him into action.

While Sam held his ground, crouched down on all fours, his white-tipped tail twitching nervously, ready to pounce in a second at brer fox, the fox was pacing slowly back and forth, about 10 feet away, with its back curled, its dark brown tail sweeping from side-to-side, hissing defiantly at Sam.

Each sudden move by the long-legged fox, which probably weighed about the same as Sam, brought a hiss and a scream and a fake retaliatory lunge by Sam, forcing his wilderness adversary to retreat a foot or two.

One thing we noticed, and something which we figured gave the adversaries a message that they did not want to fight but instead get out of this predicament, was the fact both cat and fox were careful not to make eye contact and kept looking away from each other.

Finally Sam, who must have figured this half-hour fiasco had gone on long enough, made a short, screaming, three-foot lunge at the fox. Brer Fox turned tail and scrambled back about 15 feet. When he noticed Sam wasn't pursuing the charge, he sat on his hind haunches in sort of a non-adversarial position. After about a minute of this Sam lifted himself from his attack crouch, turned and slowly strolled back to his human abode, not once looking back to see if he was being followed.

His last fake charge must have convinced him that Brer Fox had no stomach for a good old, midnight-type scratch up, the likes of which elevated Sam to the undisputed heavyweight feline championship of Alta Vista Drive.

*****

When we singled out Prescott's surviving Korean War veterans for praise in last week's Diary, we inadvertently missed naming Ralph Alkerton who spent three years with the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry during the war. Ralph told us that he signed up in 1951 as a 21-year-old seeking some excitement and adventure, but that his first taste of the bitter combat that marked the war convinced him to wish that he hadn't been quite so adventuresome.

Ralph recalled that one of his former buddies in the PPCLI was Eugene "Cooter" Cummings of Prescott. We noted that Cooter had been one of Prescott's best baseball pitchers back in that era. Ralph agreed, but noted that Cooter's skills on the big snooker and skittles table at Doyles Academy were much more memorable.

In researching some of the aspects of the Korean War for our column we noted that of the hundreds of photos we saw of Canadian troops in battle not one was wearing a steel helmet. When asked to justify the assortment of berets, toques and tams the Canadians wore instead of helmets, Reg. McIlvenna of the RCRs replied: "they were so useless in this type of warfare that the first thing the Canadian troops did when they were moved to the front lines was to throw them away."

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A server's pleasant attitude and smile are a good thing

The Editor;

Recently, I read a letter in The Prescott Journal in regards to the "lack of service" at some of our local businesses. And frankly I have to agree, not only with businesses in our town but a lack of services everywhere. Service has taken a back seat lately.

But I would like to point out the other end of the spectrum. I work in the service industry and am caught between a rock and a hard place. Frankly, I like my job, really enjoy the person I work for and the people I work with, so I display it in my appearance and personality.

I greet customers with a smile; I'm pleasant, I use respectful terms: miss, madam and sir. I try to make the customers I encounter happy that they chose to come into where I work. But I have been told I'm fake, I must want something... my favourite, that I am out for a big tip.

Can't someone just be happy because they are, because they like their job, enjoy meeting people and maybe making them feel like their business is important? I thought this was what service was all about.

Where is the happy medium? Are people so used to bad service and cranky people that they expect it from everyone? If this is the case, we all have come to a sad state of affairs.

Well, maybe the next time you're out to eat and your server greets you with a smile, maybe it's not just a tip they want; maybe, just maybe, they are trying to provide you with good service and to make you feel welcome and like business is important.

Kelly Benish
Prescott

Councillor intends to pursue ward boundary changes

The Editor;

I would like to clarify my position on the issue of de-amalgamation. If you would review my letter to the premier which was provided to your paper in April you would see in the concluding paragraphs exactly where I stand on the topic.

"As a member of council and this community, I believe that amalgamation of these two communities could have worked. I have hopes that it could still work if the electorate is given the opportunity for fair representation of both former municipalities at the council table.

If the province can step in and re-organize council for this coming election so that both municipalities are fairly represented (two or three from each of the former municipalities and the mayor at large) I think that this would be of assistance. The ballot could then fairly hold the question regarding reversing amalgamation with the new structure in mind. This will give a clear indication of whether people simply want fair representation, or want a reversal of amalgamation."

The above is what I wrote to the premier, the minister of municipal affairs, and to Bob Runciman on April 9, 2003. I stand by these words.

The response received from the minister of municipal affairs and housing states: " ... I am not prepared to place a question on the November 2003 municipal ballot regarding local government restructuring in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, and, as you may be aware, municipal councils do not have the authority to place a question on the ballot regarding restructuring.

With regard to your concerns about ward boundaries and council composition, ...local councils (have) the authority to establish ward boundaries and change the composition of council. I would therefore encourage you to continue to pursue this matter with fellow councillors..."

For the record... I intend to do so.

Peggy Taylor
Councillor, Ward One

Editor's note: Taylor has announced she is running for mayor of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal.

SCHOOL SCENE

ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL: As we welcome the month of June, many events are planned for our students at St. Mark Catholic School.

On Tuesday, we had an opportunity to thank all of the many volunteers who have assisted us throughout the school year with a volunteer tea. The dedication of our volunteers at St. Mark is very remarkable indeed, and we are blessed.

Tomorrow, we welcome all of our new Kindergarten students to St. Mark to participate in the First Ride Bus Program at 9:30 am. Dundas Bus Lines and the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario transportation department have worked hard with this important endeavour.

On Friday, June 6, our school council is sponsoring a theatre production of "Wind in the Willows" at 1:30 pm in the gymnasium.

On Tuesday, June 10, our Grade 3 students will be taking a curriculum-based field trip to Upper Canada Village that will celebrate their pioneer life unit.

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

SOUTH EDWARDSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL: Please join us June 11 at 7 pm for an evening of music and comedy presented by our choir and Kindergarten class under the leadership of our director extraordinaire, Bunny Rawlings. Your attendance will encourage our children and at the same time you may make a donation to our arts program for the coming year.

On June 6, we celebrate children with a free BBQ, hamburgers, hot dogs, milk and watermelon for all our students.

On June 9, we welcome Katie Mills for a pool and sun safety presentation.

Our Kindergarten to Grade 2 classes will enjoy a trip to Prehistoric World June 11.

On June 12, our Peacekeepers are off to the Gloucester Wave Pool for an afternoon of water fun.

The hot lunch today is pizza; next week, it will be hot dogs.

Coffee proceeds to be donated to Camp Day

PRESCOTT ­ All proceeds from coffee sold at Tim Hortons locations across Canada next Wednesday, June 11 will be donated to the restaurant chain's annual Camp Day fundraiser.

Buying a cup of coffee on this day helps send more than 9,000 children, who could otherwise not afford it, on a camping adventure.

Last year, $4.8 million was raised by the Tim Hortons Foundation. Since 1974, more than 54,000 children have attended a camp.

Tim Hortons store owners work closely with local groups to select appropriate children.

Township adopts 2003 budget

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Homeowners in the township will be facing a one-per-cent increase in their municipal tax rates after Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council adopted its 2003 budget at Monday's meeting in Spencerville.

After a discussion involving members of council after the Ports Management meeting May 28, council went back and used the police reconciliation surplus of $200,000 and dropped the tax increase from three per cent to one per cent across the township.

"After the Ports meeting we had a brief conversation of ways to try to reduce the percentage rate," said Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie. "The majority felt with the increase and the assessments going so high we should go back to the surplus and drop the per cent from three per cent to one per cent."

Residents of the Edwardsburgh portion of the township will pay $28.46 less a year on a home assessed at $100,000 after factoring in a zero per cent increase in counties taxes and a decrease in school board taxes.

Factoring in water and sewer rates, residents of the former village of Cardinal will be paying $29.21 a year more than last year on a home assessed at $100,000.

Residents of Edwardsburgh who are hooked up to only water in Cardinal will see an increase in their water hook-up fee to $345 from $280 paid last year.

Users of the Spencerville sewage system will pay $285 per unit, which is the same cost as last year.

Commercial taxes in the township will also decrease by $123.57 on businesses assessed at $100,000 which were also assessed at $100,000 last year. Farm taxes will go down $7.12 on a farm assessed at $100,000 in both 2002 and 2003.

A total for operating costs of the township in 2003 was not readily available in the budget documentation provided by council.

The township also has numerous projects in the capital budget for 2003, including $82,599 for work on Walter and Lambert streets, $169,000 for work on Brouseville Road, $156,000 for work on Adams Road and other big items such as $23,400 for a new lawn mower for Cardinal, $160,000 for a new loader for the Pittston garage and $100,000 for a new rescue van for Cardinal.

"Nobody likes to see an increase," said Dobbie, "but everything does increase. We will be seeing a lot of improvements to the municipality. Cardinal will be happy to have Walter and Lambert (streets) done with new sidewalks. The people who travel along the Brouseville Road will be glad to see some of the good bumps along the way gone. For the water and sewer budget, nobody likes to see an increase, but when the lines aren't looped and they need residual chlorine in lines it's going to be expensive. Everyone in Cardinal that is hooked up shares in the cost."

Sea Cadet review honours the best

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

CARDINAL ­ It was a moment to shine for a group of youngsters, their families and the many community volunteers who support the cause.

The fourth annual review of the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Defiant 338 took place Sunday afternoon at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

More than 150 people attended the ceremony. The inspecting officer for this year's review was Lieutenant-Colonel John Dean McConnell, who joined the Canadian Armed Forces in 1970 and assumed command of the Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Control Operations in June 2001.

In addition to the review by McConnell, the local squadron handed out its awards for the 2002/2003 training year. Guests also took a closer look at a number of static displays made by the cadets.

The following awards were presented:

* Best 1st Year Cadet ­ AC Lindsay Kirker

* Best 2nd Year Cadet ­ PO2 Laura Commerford

* Best 3rd Year Cadet ­ PO2 Andrew Mustard

* Kiwanis Leadership ­ CPO2 Nikki Stewart

* Military Merit; Leadership Abilities ­ PO2 Chantel Engelhart

* Most Efficient Cadet ­ PO1 Chris Riddell

* Cadet Spirit Award ­ PO2 Adam Riddell

* Top Marksman ­ PO2 Bradley Toupin

* Best 1st Year Bandsman ­ AC Christina Miller

* Most Improved Bandsman ­ PO2 Andrew Mustard

* Proficiency in Knots ­ PO1 Chris Riddell

* Sailing Proficiency ­ PO2 Matthew Fawcett

* Most Athletic Cadet ­ PO1 Shawn Mustard

* Best Dressed of the Year ­ PO2 Andrew Mustard

* Cock of the Walk ­ Algonquin Division (Matt Fawcett DPO)

* Legion Medal of Excellence ­ CPO2 Nikki Stewart

* Best Dressed at Annual Review ­ PO2 Chantel Engelhart

* Best Display ­ Band

* Captain's Prize ­ LC Tiffany Batty

* Best Attendance (qualified as three or less excused absences and no non-excused absences during the training year September to June) ­ Amelia Baynham, Lucie Jodoin, Brandon Neddo, Tiffany Ranger, Jennifer Bernard, Cynthia Casavant, Lindsay Kirker, Christina Miller, Tiffany Batty, Meagan Fawcett, Brittany Robinson, Chantel Engelhart, Matt Fawcett, Brooke Jodoin, Andrew Mustard, Adam Riddell, Bradley Toupin, Richard Coughler, Shawn Mustard, Chris Riddell, Nikki Stewart and Daniel Toupin.

The local Sea Cadet Squadron is supported by the Navy League of Cardinal. Nancy Toupin has served as president for the 2002/2003 training year.

Public library will relocate to village hall

SPENCERVILLE - Council has approved a resolution to move the Cardinal Public Library into the Cardinal Village Hall.

Township council voted Monday to adopt a resolution recommened by the Administration Committee to move the Cardinal Public Library from its current location on Lewis Street to the Cardinal Village Hall.

Mayor Dave Dobbie stated the details of the library's move would be worked on by the library board, the administration committee and township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald.

The library's move was conditional on the OPP remaining in the building, the kitchen facilities remaining accessible, at least one office being reserved for future use and the lower level being reserved for community use.

Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey, who sits on the Library Board, suggested that throughout the move Cardinal Librarian Margaret Ann Gaylord should be consulted.

"We need to keep her in the loop on this," said Noccey. "She should be kept heavily involved in this, since she knows what is needed and what she has."

The mayor indicated he hoped the move would be completed by the fall.

CARDINAL BRIEFS

VON walk-in clinics begin

CARDINAL ­ The first VON walk-in nursing clinic was held Tuesday at St. Lawrence Medical Centre.

The monthly clinics offer a wide range of services to the public. Clinics will usually take place the first Tuesday of each month from 9 am to 1 pm. Because of the Canada Day holiday, the next clinic is set for Wednesday, July 3 from 9 am to 12:45 pm.

The VON clinics are made possible by funding provided by the Brockville Community Foundation, United Way of Leeds and Grenville and the McNeil Foundation.

Bookmark sales support hospitals

CARDINAL ­ Bookmarks will be sold in the village next week as part of a fundraiser for two Brockville hospitals.

Volunteers will be at TD Canada Trust and the post office Thursday, June 12 and Friday, June 13. Proceeds from the sale of bookmarks will be divided equally between Brockville and St. Vincent de Paul hospitals.

Port operations manager retires

SPENCERVILLE - Township council reported Monday that it had accepted the resignation of a long time Port of Prescott employee at the port management meeting May 28 in Johnstown.

Operations Manager John Horan submitted a letter of resignation in order to seek retirement.

"He wrote a very nice letter tendering his resignation," revealed Mayor Dave Dobbie. "He is a very knowledgeable and very nice man. We wish him many years of good health in his retirement."

Horan has worked at the grain elevator for more than 40 years.

Dobbie indicated the position has yet to be filled.

"He'll be really hard to replace," said Dobbie. "It's not often you get someone with 40 years of knowledge under your belt working for you."

Shanly Road construction to start this month

SPENCERVILLE - Council awarded a tender for the reconstruction on Shanly Road at Monday's council meeting in Spencerville.

Council voted to approve a tender from Dibblee Construction which gave a construction estimate of $935,000.

Township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald indicated construction on the road will begin mid-to-late June and run for roughly 12-15 weeks.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie noted the project will be a temporary inconvenience, but will be worth the wait.

"It's a good thing going on in Shanly Road," said Dobbie. "It's a big project and some residents will be miffed at the slowdown of traffic, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel with a newly-paved road at the end."

The mayor indicated the project is a joint venture with the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, with costs being split 50-50.

Skating club seeks public feedback

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Figure Skating Club is seeking volunteers for the 2003-2004 season.

The club is looking at offering new programs this fall with adult skating lessons and requires more people to help out.

The club also has a new e-mail address - cfsc@ripnet.com - to which the public is invited to make suggestions of what they would like to see for the club in the upcoming year.

Those interested in volunteering should e-mail the club.

Committee promoting health care programs finds a name

CARDINAL - The group of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal residents seeking to bring health care programs to the community beginning with Cardinal has finally chosen a name the Action Committee of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal at its last meeting May 26.

The group will operate as a sub committee of the Cardinal and District Resource Centre with Peggy Taylor being named the interim chair. Evelyn Mallett will sit on the resource centre board.

The Victorian Order of Nurses and Dr. Andrew Thomas received a tour of the resource centre, with all spaces and options being investigated.

The group spoke about Lynn Murray's presentation to council on behalf of the group and was happy to find out a new refuse bin had been installed in the park in Cardinal's subdivision.

The group suggested the Cardinal Lions Club and Cardinal in Bloom co-ordinate on checking into the possibility of new playground equipment in the village.

The committee's next meeting will be on June 23 at 7 pm at the Cardinal Village Hall.

Township recreation spending clarified

CARDINAL - Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie indicated Monday night a story in the May 28 edition of The Prescott Journal was inaccurate.

In the story about a township resident speaking to council on recreation needing to be cut, Pat Grant was quoted as saying "Recreation is costing us about half a million dollars a year." The mayor expressed his displeasure at the report,stating that it was really $230,000 which was being spent a year.

Giants thrower off to Ontario finals

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

OTTAWA - South Grenville athletes had a strong showing at the East Regional Track and Field Meet last Thursday at the Terry Fox Athletic Centre in Ottawa.

South Grenville District High School advanced one athlete to compete for the Ontario Federation of Secondary School Athletic Association's (OFSSAA) championships Thursday in St. Catharines.

The Giants' Shane Pettifer came up with a big day winning the junior boys discus with a throw of 41.19, beating his nearest competitor by nearly three metres.

Pettifer also finished sixth in the junior boys shot put with a throw of 12.33 falling less than a metre short of a second OFSSAA berth.

"We did remarkably well," said Giants track coach Mark Lewis. "Shane winning the discus was really big news for us. He showed a lot of heart and threw about two metres farther than he ever has before."

In her first season of organized track and field in three years, Kim Howitt finished fifth in the senior girls 400 Metres with a time of 1:04.93, five seconds short of qualifying for the Ontario Championships.

Howitt also finished sixth in the senior girls Long Jump with a jump of 4.82 metres, while Erin Heibein finished tenth in the event with a jump of 4.72 metres.

Julie Putman capped her first season of track and field with a pair of ninth place finishes in the senior girls 1500 metres and 3000 metres races. Putman finished with a time of 5:24.46 in the 1500 metres and 11:40.21 in the 3000 metres.

"Kim (Howitt) and Julie (Putman) are first-year kids," said Lewis. "Kim finished sixth in the long jump only a couple centimetres off from qualifying and in the 400 metres she missed out by a place. Julie finished ninth in both of her events. With a little more confidence she could be a world beater. Erin Heiben also had a good day and missed the finals by only one place."

Katie Beatty finished 13th in the senior girls shot put with a throw of 8.37 metres.

Lewis thinks Pettifer should put up a strong performance at the Ontario Championships - if he can keep his cool.

"In discus and javelin especially, the throwers tend to let emotion pump them up and then they try to just use power instead of technique," explained Lewis. "If he focuses on technique and stays calm he could be in the top six."

GCC qualifies three

Grenville Christian College also advanced three athletes to the Ontario Championships, including Mark Farnsworth who finished fourth in the midget boys pole vault with a vault of 2.55 metres, and Blake Chauvin and Ho Yin Tang who finished second and third in the senior boys pole vault with vaults of 3.35 and 3.10 metres respectively.

Kevan Puddicomb narrowly missed qualifying in the midget boys pole vault with a vault of 2.40 metres, while Eric Phelan and Joseph Wong finished tied for eighth in the senior boys pole vault with vaults of 2.80 metres.

Recreation clubs going smoke-free

PRESCOTT - After membership votes, the Prescott Curling Club and Prescott Golf Club will be smoke-free.

The curling club held a secret ballot for its members last week to determine whether they were in favour of the club being designated a smoke-free facility.

A majority of 83 per cent voted in favour of the smoking ban at the facility; 17 per cent opposed the change.

New club President Alan Norton does not believe the change to a smoke-free facility would affect the club much.

"The smoking ban will begin immediately at the club," said Norton. "We don't think this will send members away. Ultimately, it may attract some new members who would enjoy a non-smoking environment."

Norton was not able to estimate the percentage of smokers at the club, but guessed it would be no different than the percentage of the general public.

Prior to the vote, the club allowed smoking in the upstairs hall of the club which includes a bar and kitchen.

The curling club joins the Prescott Golf Club, which held a vote for its adult members at the annual meeting April 1 about going smoke-free and about possible implementation dates.

"The whole process was started in February when we were approached by a committee who had signatures from 190 members who wanted to pursue a smoke free facility," explained club manager Thom Miller. "They voted by about 60 (per cent) to 40 (per cent) in favour of going smoke free and about 50 per cent supported a November 1 start date."

Miller indicated the date is really a compromise for members who are smokers and groups which have already booked the facilities in advance.

"We will be smoke free as of November 1."

Miller considers the change to a smoke free clubhouse a big concern.

"I've polled other clubs and it's about 50 (per cent), 50 (per cent) on whether it has affected them. There is concern we may lose some business next season with people going for drinks in town instead of staying at the clubhouse. We took the initiative for the general health of everyone, and the members seem willing to pick up the slack."

The club has no current plans for an outdoor smoking facility. "But it is something that's in the back of our minds for the future," said Miller.

SGDHS falls short in rugby regional

NAPANEE - The South Grenville Giants boys rugby team dropped a pair of tough match-ups at last Wednesday's Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association (EOSSAA) rugby tournament.

The Giants opened up the day with a disheartening loss to Smiths Falls in penalty kicks.

At the end of regulation both teams were tied at five, forcing the game to be decided by an EOSSAA tiebreaker which had both teams attempt a best of three penalty kicks from the right, centre and then left. The Giants' Tyler Stephenson was able to nail one of the kicks, but the Smiths Falls kicker was able to connect on two to relegate South Grenville to the consolation final.

"The teams are a lot bigger up there," said Giants player Chris Seary. "We had our weaker moments.

"Our biggest strength as a team is our fitness," said Seary. "In our league we play 35-minute halves, while up there all the games were 26 minutes in total and that really took away from us."

The Giants took on a strong Rockland team in the consolation final, which was able to score enough early to hang on for 22-17 win.

"In the losers pool we lost four starters in the game," said McGlynn. "They scored their points in the first half, before we rallied in the second half."

South Grenville was able to turn on the jets late in the game to score three trys to narrow the game before running out of time.

"After the first game the boys were a little bitter," said McGlynn. "If it was a full game we probably would have blown them out."

McGlynn praised his players on their showing at EOSSAA.

"Throughout the day Chris Tutecky, Jay Bottan and Ryan McGuire all played really well," said McGlenn. "They feel good about their performance, but are pretty tired and beat down. I think they might be glad the season is over."

Giants player Kyle Tennant, who partially dislocated both shoulders on the day, added, "We could have played better. There were some really good teams up there. We went into our second game a little disappointed and demoralized, but then we came together and probably played the hardest we had all season."

Despite the disappointment with the losses, Giants players acknowledged the strength of their competition.

"I know I went up there expecting to do well," said Seary, "but we were up against better competition. Every team that was at EOSSAA was there because they earned it."

The South Grenville coach was happy with his team's improvement throughout the season.

"They made a lot of great progress," said McGlynn. "Some of the guys knew nothing about the sport when we started. Each game they just kept improving."

Locals fare well at elementary track meet

PRESCOTT - The Leeds and Grenville Elementary School Athletic Association held a successful South East Regional Track and Field meet Thursday at South Grenville District High School.

Iroquois, which organized the meet, won with 298 points, followed by St. Joseph with 153 points, Maple Ridge with 139 points, Nationview with 96 points, St. Cecilia with 84 points, Central with 47 points, Boundary Street with 42 points, Benson with 34 points, Inkerman with 20 points and Dixons Corners with 11 points.

St. Joseph's Ashley Gillis was named the senior girl of the meet, while Dominic Petralia of St. Cecilia was named the top senior boy. Bret Avery of Iroquois Public School was named top junior boy and Brittany Elliott of Iroquois Public School was top junior girl.

The top six finishers qualify for the championship meet June 9 at Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville.

Top local finishes include:

Junior girls 60 metres

4. Carrie Calhoun, Benson; 5. Lindsay Francis, Boundary Street

Senior girls 60 metres

1. Kristen Craig, Central; 6. Brittany McParland, St. Joseph

Junior boys 60 metres

1. Jeff Moulton, St. Joseph

Junior girls 100 metres

4. Jen Bernard, St. Joseph; 5. Carrie Calhoun, Benson

Senior girls 100 metres

2. Ashley Gillis, St. Joseph; 5. Brittany McParland, St. Joseph

Junior boys 100 metres

4. Jeff Moulton, St. Joseph; 6. Jason Deeks, St. Joseph

Senior boys 100 metres

3. Mike Froom, Central; 4. Gavin Bush, St. Joseph; 6. Nick Wert, St. Joseph

Junior girls 200 metres

2. Carrie Calhoun, Benson; 4. Rebecca McDougall, Boundary Street

Senior girls 200 metres

1. Ashley Gillis, St. Joseph

Junior boys 200 metres

1. Jeff Moulton, St. Joseph; 3. Jason Deeks, St. Joseph; 6. Payton Williams, St. Joseph

Senior boys 200 metres

1. Gavin Bush, St. Joseph; 3. Nick Wert, St. Joseph

Junior girls 400 metres

3. Lindsay Miller, St. Joseph; 4. Emily Reinstra, Central; 6. Rebecca McDougall, Boundary Street

Senior girls 400 metres

1. Becky Langstaff, Boundary Street; 2. Ashley Gillis, St. Joseph; 3. Kayla Munnings, St. Joseph; 5. Kristen Craig, Central

Senior boys 400 metres

2. Gavin Bush, St. Joseph; 6. Mike Froom, Central

Junior girls 800 metres

2. Rebecca McDougall, Boundary Street; 3. Emily Reinstra,
Central; 6. Charlene Smith, Benson

Senior girls 800 metres

3. Becky Langstaff, Boundary Street; 5. Chelsea Roode, Benson; 6. Chelsea Edwards, Boundary Street

Junior boys 800 metres

5. Dylan Render, Central

Senior boys 800 metres

2. Jamie McFarlane, St. Joseph; 3. Nick Wert, St. Joseph; 6. Mark Wynands, St. Joseph

Junior girls 1500 metres

3. Alanna Losenta, Boundary Street; 4. Emily Reinstra, Central; 6. Dana Stephenson, Boundary Street

Senior girls 1500 metres

1. Chelsea Roode, Benson; 5. Holly Pankhurst, Boundary
Street

Senior boys 1500 metres

2. Jamie McFarlane, St. Joseph; 5. Mark Wynands, St. Joseph

Senior girls 4x100 metre relay

1. St. Joseph

Junior boys 4x100 metre relay

2. St. Joseph

Senior boys 4x100 metre relay

3. St. Joseph

Junior girls Long Jump

2. Jen Bernard, St. Joseph; 5. Kaleigh Villeneuve, St. Joseph; 6. Alanna Losente, Boundary
Street

Senior girls Long Jump

1. Holly Pankhurst, Boundary Street; 4. Taylor Smith, Benson; 5. Thea Verstegen, St. Joseph

Junior boys Long Jump

2. Torin Marcynuk, St. Joseph; 4. Josh Pitt, Boundary Street; 6. Jeff Gaw, Boundary Street

Senior boys Long Jump

1. Mike Froom, Central; 3. Josh Parsons, Central

Junior girls Triple Jump

5. Carley Sullivan, Benson

Senior girls Triple Jump

5. Stephanie Hendriks, St. Joseph; 6. Taylor Smith, Benson

Junior boys Triple Jump

4. Torin Marcynuk, St. Joseph

Senior boys Triple Jump

3. Josh Parsons, Central

Junior girls High Jump

3. Emma Tomalty, St. Joseph; 4. Kristen Cassidy, St. Joseph

Senior girls High Jump

1. Stephanie Hendriks, St. Joseph; 1. Caitlyn Clarke, St. Joseph

Senior boys High Jump

3. Josh Parsons, Central

Junior girls Shot Put

5. Sarah Steenwyk, Central

Senior girls Shot Put

2. Brittany McParland, St. Joseph; 3. Caitlyn Clarke, St. Joseph; 4. Thea Verstegen, St. Joseph

Junior boys Shot Put

1. Zack Stitt, Benson

Senior boys Shot Put

6. Marc Schorback, Benson

ATVs and mud drags set to invade Augusta

NORTH AUGUSTA - Motorsports enthusiasts are getting prepared for some mud and mayhem as Wheels a Churnin is returning to Augusta Motorsport Park June 7 and 8.

The gates will open both days at 7 am with registration starting at 9 am. ATV mud drags will start at 11 am with all other events set to start at noon.

Saturday will feature tractor pulls, 4x4 mud drags, ATV mud drags, wheel to wheel and tough truck competitions, while Sunday will see ATV and garden tractor pulls, 4x4 mud drags, ATV mud drags, off road races, wheel-to-wheel races and a tough truck competition. Monster truck rides will also be available at the event.

There are limited spots in all events, with proceeds going towards charity.

For track information or to register, contact Onne Van Hook at 926-2628 or Gary Spero at 925-3374.

Prescott minor soccer gets under way despite wet weather

PRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Soccer Association season is under way.

The season started last week with a flurry of games in the pouring rain.

League action will continue now until late August with all games posted on the schedule board at South Grenville District High School.

In Under-16 action Nick Francica got his team off to a good start as his pair of goals helped Gateway Packaging defeat Canadian Tire 4-2. Curtis Biccum and Kris Maloney had Gateway's other goals, while Kevin Beach responded with a pair for Canadian Tire.

Under-16

Gateway Packaging 4

Nick Francica (2), Curtis Biccum, Kris Maloney

Canadian Tire 2

Kevin Beach (2)

Grenville Towing 2

Evan Lavallee, Patrick Peladeau

Southport 1

Sebastien Last

Watermark Printing 6

Robert Amell (4), Brandon Spencer (2)

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 3

Matt Deeks (2), Jacob Casselman

Hartley Sports 6

Nicholas Wert (2), Chad Hyland (2), Larry Cardinal, Andrew Wilson

DWJ Plumbing & Sons 1

Nick Maggio

Under-12

Giant Tiger 2

Kyle Jensen (2)

Beach Home Hardware 1

Christopher Rice

B.W. Freer Electric 2

Michael Thomas, Mason Ameil

Hansen's Kavity Kickers 2

Troy Armstrong, Ian King

Kriska Holdings 4

Jesse Hyland (2), Kailee Byers, Jared McGeough

Seaway Valley Pharmacy 1

Richard Champagne

Shriners 3

Sean Perrin, Sloan Jarvis, John Jackson

Grenville Castings 0

No goal scorers

Under-10

TD Canada Trust 6

Trent Corney (3), Cody Shedrick (2), Devon Johnston

Royal Bank 1

Michael Edwards

Seaway Physiotherapy 3

Matthew Barkley, Matthew Boyd, Jesse Boyd

Mac's Convenience Stores 2

Jamie Sturgeon (2)

Grenville Pharmacy 7

Ronald Harrison (3), Tyson Bertrend (2), Adam Norton, Philip Malcolmson

Danani Flooring 1

Payton Marriner

Colour Pallette 5

Joey Sargeant (2), A.J. Larocque, Christian Sammier, Zach Barridge

Kiwanis 0

No goal scorers

Colour Pallette 3

Philip Biccum, Michael Morrell, Cory Wilson

TD Canada Trust 2

Trent Corney (2)

Royal Bank 3

Patrick Spencer (2), Austin Murphy

Mac's Convenience Stores 1

Jamie Sturgeon

Grenville Pharmacy 1

Ronald Harrison

Seaway Physiotherapy 0

No goal scorers

Prescott Kinsmen 10

Drew Johnston (3), Emily Colwell (2), Kyle Szeto (2), Trevor Moore, Garret Richards, Damian Haystead

Danani Flooring 1

Nathan Hamilton

Playit Star 5

Brendan O'Hanlon (3), Alex Stephenson, Michael Lawless

Splash Well Drilling 4

Ryan Van Stralen (2), Sean Blackburn, Amir-Reza Hajarii

Playit Star 8

Michael Lawless (5), Brendan O'Hanlon, Chelsea Amell, Damien Van hyning

Prescott Kinsmen 0

No goal scorers

Under-8

S.L. Printing Devils 6

Paul DeJong (5), Shenda Harrison

Compendium Group Inc. 3

Adrian Dalrymple (3)

Prophet's Trophies 3

Nicholas Ladoucer (2), Shannon Jones

M.T.J.B. 1

Alex Boswall

Prescott IDA 6

Zack Sukunita (3), John Lawless (2), William Barkley

S.L. Printing Devils 0

No goal scorers

Playit Star 5

Curtis Ross (2), Aaron Scott, Alex Molder, Emma Selleck

Tropical Pools 1

Dakota Thauvette

Tropical Pools 3

Dakota Thauvette (2), Derek Philion

Hometown Heating 0

No goal scorers

M.T.J.B. 5

Devontay McNeil (2), Alex Boswall (2), Dillon Ault

Windmill Web Inc. 2

Brent Van Stralen (2)

Prophet's Trophies 12

Nicholas Ladoceur (4), Christian Zahn (3), Kyle Coligan (2), Zack Sukunita (2), Andrew Moulton

Prescott IDA 2

John Lawless (2)

Windmill Web Inc. 7

Brent Van Stralen (6), Cameron Smith

Hometown Heating 1

Ben Smith

Under-6

Tichborne Auto Supply 2

Chad Fretwell, Drew Holmes

Chevron Construction 1

Spencer Ross

Becks 3

Jonathan Ferguson (2), Merrick Marshall

Grenville Fish & Game 2

Payton Selleck, Christopher
Argue

Chevron Construction 0

No goal scorers

Grenville Fish & Game 0

No goal scorers

Playit Star 0

No goal scorers

Tichborne Auto Supply 0

No goal scorers

Star Security 0

No goal scorers

Prescott Chiros 0

No goal scorers

Prescott Chiros 1

Zach Shankar

Playit Star 0

No goal scorers

Ace for Rowe at golf club

PRESCOTT - Prescott Golf Club saw its second hole-in-one of the 2003 season May 19.

John Rowe of Prescott notched his second-ever ace on the 15th hole.

Rowe used a pitching wedge to nail the 120-yard shot.

The hole-in-one was witnessed by John's father, Bob Rowe.

South Grenville holding ball day tomorrow in Domville

DOMVILLE - South Grenville District High School will be holding its baseball fun day tomorrow in Domville.

Teams consisting of students and some staff have been put together and will descend on the ball diamonds for a tournament
beginning at 9 am and running until roughly 3 pm.

Bragging rights will be on the line as numerous ball players from Domville, Spencerville and the Roebuck teams will be bringing their skills to their respective teams.

There are rumblings that a "Dream Team" is being created to take part in the tournament.

Elementary school athletes to compete in county track meet

BROCKVILLE - Athletes from numerous South Grenville elementary schools will travel to Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville Monday to compete in the Leeds and Grenville Elementary School Athletic Association track and field championships.

Athletes who finished in the top six positions in the junior girls, senior girls, junior boys and senior boys events at the South East Regional last Thursday at South Grenville District High School will participate in the meet in Brockville. The meet was hosted by Iroquois Public School.

South Grenville athletes are expected to have a strong showing at the meet.

Local residents in running for sports hall of fame awards

BROCKVILLE - Local athletes and volunteers will be up for some awards at the Brockville and Area Hall of Fame Weekend June 12-14.

The Prescott Curling Club bantam girls rink will be up for team of the year and Joan Hubbard will be up for the Investor's Group Volunteering Award.

The awards and hall of fame induction ceremony will take place Friday, June 13 at 6 pm and is free to the public.

Prescott Golf Club will be hosting the Bruce Wylie Hall of Fame Golf Classic Saturday, June 14. Entry forms are available at the club.

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