VOL. 173, NO. 37~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ September 17, 2003

Spencerville Fair bigger and better

As many as 25,000 people attend 148th annual edition

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Biggest Little Class A Fair in Eastern Ontario got a whole lot bigger.

The 148th edition of the Spencerville Fair, which concluded its four-day run Sunday, offered more entertainment, rides and activities while maintaining the rural base that has made the annual event an important tradition in the Edwardsburgh area.

"I thought it was a blast," said Spencerville Agricultural Society President Sheila Bush.

Although final attendance figures were unavailable Monday, Bush estimated the fair would be close to achieving its goal of 25,000 people. This would be a marked increase over previous fairs that would see attendance closer to the 15,000 range.

"We're trying to do the best we can to make it 'the fair with a flair,'" Bush said.

Increased advertising and emphasis on the many country music entertainers performing at this year's fair appears to have paid off. More than 3,000 people visited the entertainment tent area Saturday night to hear headliner Adam Gregory and D.W. James. More than 1,000 attended the performance by popular Eastern Ontario band Ambush.

Bush said there were many people from the United States and outside the immediate area who might have been at the fair for the first time.

There was also a big crowd to see the annual demolition derby Sunday afternoon. Weather conditions favoured the fair; except for a brief downpour Sunday, sunshine and above-average daytime high temperatures were the order of the day.

Conditions were also ideal for a new record in the mammoth pumpkin contest. Art Milburn of RR5 Brockville set the new mark Friday night with his entry that tipped the scales at a whopping 939 lbs.

The agricultural side also appeared to have fared well this year. Bush said there were appeared to be more cows and horses entered than last year.

The president acknowledged not everyone who had been associated with the society for many years was keen on expansion plans. However, she added feedback she received on the weekend was overwhelmingly positive.

The bigger fair seemed to get a favourable response from most of those who attended. Lillian Blair, a Spencerville resident who has been coming to the fair for many years, said it was great to see such big crowds and be able to move around on the expanded site.

George Drummond honoured

The expansion would not have been possible without the support of the late George Drummond, who provided the Drummond Building, barns and the upper area of the grounds on which much of the focus of this year's fair (including a relocated midway and the entertainment tent) was placed.

Drummond died earlier this year. In honour of his support and that of his family, the fair board decided to rename the site the George Drummond Memorial Grounds. The announcement was made at a special opening ceremony held Thursday night.

"George was a man of vision," said Executive Director Jeff Roddick. "He saw bigger and better things."

Members of Drummond's family were also on hand to see the unveiling of a portrait of George done by Marc Tessier. The portrait hangs in the Drummond Building office.

The 2003 fair experienced some growing pains, Bush acknowledged. Traffic in and around the village was a problem prior to the parade Saturday morning. This year's parade formed at the Goodin Road entrance to the grounds and was late getting started. Vehicles were parked on the side of County Road 21 as far west as Beverly Street.

The sand at the new outdoor horse venue was too soft for many of the larger animals and carriages. A number of competitions were moved inside to the Drummond arena, and the Saturday afternoon horse events almost wrapped up on time.

Some people also noted the footing in the midway area was difficult because of the many rocks that made it difficult for people with strollers.

"We have to make some adjustments," Bush said. "We're already talking and planning right now."

The fair would not be such a success without the countless hours put in by directors and other volunteers, according to the president. The work is tiring but worth it when so many people are having a good time, Bush indicated.

The president acknowledged not everyone who had been associated with the society for many years was keen on expansion plans. However, she added feedback she received on the weekend was overwhelmingly positive.

The bigger fair seemed to get a favourable response from most of those who attended. Lillian Blair, a Spencerville resident who has been coming to the fair for many years, said it was great to see such big crowds and be able to move around on the expanded site.

The expansion would not have been possible without the support of the late George Drummond, who provided the Drummond Building, barns and the upper area of the grounds on which much of the focus of this year's fair (including a relocated midway and the entertainment tent) was placed.

Drummond died earlier this year. In honour of his support and that of his family, the fair board decided to rename the site the George Drummond Memorial Grounds. The announcement was made at a special opening ceremony held Thursday night.

"George was a man of vision," said Executive Director Jeff Roddick. "He saw bigger and better things."

Members of Drummond's family were also on hand to see the unveiling of a portrait of George done by Marc Tessier. The portrait hangs in the Drummond Building office.

The 2003 fair experienced some growing pains, Bush acknowledged. Traffic in and around the village was a problem prior to the parade Saturday morning. This year's parade formed at the Goodin Road entrance to the grounds and was late getting started. Vehicles were parked on the side of County Road 21 as far west as Beverly Street.

The sand at the new outdoor horse venue was too soft for many of the larger animals and carriages. A number of competitions were moved inside to the Drummond arena, and the Saturday afternoon horse events almost wrapped up on time.

Some people also noted the footing in the midway area was difficult because of the many rocks that made it difficult for people with strollers.

"We have to make some adjustments," Bush said. "We're already taking and planning right now."

The fair would not have been such a success without the countless hours put in by directors and other volunteers, according to the president.

"We have to make some adjustments.

Dobbie seeks re-election as mayor of township

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Mayor Dave Dobbie has officially thrown his name into the ring for another term as mayor of Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal.

The mayor, who had previously been tight-lipped on his intentions for the fall election, indicated Monday night he would be seeking re-election. Dobbie joins Ward One Councillor Peggy Taylor as the only two candidates to date in the mayoralty race.

Dobbie has been the mayor of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal since its amalgamation after the last election; he previously served as mayor of the former township of Edwardsburgh.

Though the mayor, who currently holds the title of Warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, claims not to have any single particular reason in his decision to seek re-election, he pointed out road improvement has been one of his main focuses while mayor.

"If you look at the township and the roads which have been done this year and last it shows how much work we've put into our roads," explained Dobbie. "Our neighbouring townships look at what we've done and comment on how nice a drive it is through Edwardsburgh/Cardinal."

Dobbie also spoke of the work he has done on sewer and water lines and how he hopes to steer the township further in that direction.

The mayor also stated his desire to look at how to get high speed Internet access in the township at no capital cost to the community and wishes to seek out private companies to do so.

"Within three years I hope the whole township can be served with high speed," explained Dobbie, "and I think it can be done for cheaper than the cost that South Dundas paid."

Regarding the issue of the referendum which will be held by Kawartha Lakes to consider de-amalgamation there, the mayor promised to keep a close eye on the outcome to see what the township's options are.

"We are one township and we will continue to operate as one," explained Dobbie. "But in the same breath, I will be watching what happens in Kawartha Lakes closely and see if the province finds themselves in a pretty difficult situation and watch to see how it unfolds.

"I will continue to work to erase the former boundaries, but still believe the decision on amalgamation should have been open to all residents of the municipality to have a say, but I'll be looking out of a corner of my eye at the results."

THIS WEEK

Historic house tour opens doors Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ The annual historic house tour will be presented this Saturday, Sept. 20 by the Grenville County Historical Society.

The seventh annual tour from 1 to 4 pm will give visitors a look into the past and the structures that played a role in shaping Prescott.

Four stone houses with traditional details of early-Ontario architecture constructed in the 1830s and 1840s and one house built about 140 years later will be featured on the tour.

The locations are 569 Centre St., 693 King St. W., 147 Dibble St. W., 672 Henry St. W. and 165 Kingston Cr.

Tickets for the tour are available at Crane House (headquarters of the historical society) by calling 925-0489 or 925-2914, Young's of Prescott or Flower World in Prescott. A traditional afternoon tea at Walker House in included in the admission fee.

This is the major fundraiser of the year for the society.

More counterfeit bills are in circulation

PRESCOTT ­ Police are advising local businesses to be vigilant when it comes to accepting Canadian currency.

Several suspected counterfeit bills were received last week and have been sent to the RCMP for analysis, according to the Prescott Police Service. Merchants should be careful when checking bills. In addition to bogus $5, $10 and $20 bills, it is now suspected there are fake $50 bills in circulation.

For more information or to report counterfeit currency, contact town police at 925-4252. In Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and Augusta, contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 925-4221.

St. John's to host ham and bean supper

PRESCOTT ­ A ham and bean supper will be served Sunday, Sept. 21 at 5:30 pm at St. John's Anglican Church, corner of James and Centre streets.

Tickets must be purchased or reserved in advance; they will not be available at the door.

To reserve tickets or for more information, contact Anne Smith at 925-5721 or Rusty Saunders at 925-3497.

DuPont Maitland celebrates 50 years

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

MAITLAND ­ The past met the future head on Saturday during DuPont Canada Maitland Site's 50th anniversary celebration.

About 1,500 people toured through the complex, took in photo displays detailing construction of the plant in the early 1950s, and gained a better understanding of the international company's vast operations at outdoor tents and exhibits. Among the attractions were Jeff Gordon's NASCAR racing car and DuPont's chemical emergency response and fire trucks.

An anniversary celebration and dinner was held Friday in honour of past employees and attended by retirees, dignitaries, elected officials and past plant managers.

The company has announced its restructuring within the global EI DuPont Company, and anticipated purchase this fall by Wichita, Kansas-based firm Koch Industries, a privately-held company with annual revenues of $40 billion. The deal was the topic of several presentations made Saturday by Plant Manager Joe Hendriks and Human Resources Manager Bill Byker.

Jake Roobol of Maitland was one of many past employees who stopped in for a look. "It feels great to be back," he said. The native of The Netherlands came to Canada in 1951, and was hired shortly after as a millwright to help in the construction of DuPont, then known as Canada Industries Limited (CIL).

He helped build the sprawling plant from the ground up at a time when everything surrounding it was farms, Roobol explained.

He continued to work at the site as a millwright for the next 36 years, because his job was just too good to leave.

"The time itself - the fellowship of co-workers - was just excellent," Roobol said of his years at DuPont. "Life has been very exciting and very satisfying. Every time something new came out in the chemical industry, I was involved with that. Life has been a challenge."

Roobol explained he never had to change careers, because he had it all at DuPont. "There was never a day that was the same. I was always confronted with a different issue or problem to be resolved. It was just a pleasure to go to work." Roobol added he started in a day when equipment was steam driven, and was able to experience the challenging transitions in technology to electrically-driven machinery.

Roobol also noted he has had a tremendous career, and DuPont provided him with a great retirement that started in 1989.

DuPont Maitland Site currently employs 630 people in its various businesses, including nylon intermediates, lycra, engineering polymers and SUVA, a refrigerant. Its own co-generation plant produces 40 megawatts of electricity.

While the company owns 1,300 acres of land along County Road 2, 350 acres are in production use. Maitland Site also employs 60 summer students, and up to 300 project contractors at any one time.

New name

DuPont's name will change to Invista Inc. - a name built on innovation and vision that connects to the past while looking ahead to the future, explained Byker in the presentation that detailed the company's restructuring. As the inventor of nylon, the company continues a legacy of scientific achievement. Building on the past while working with customers to become profitable and drive demand of the products through performance will be the key to the future, he explained.

Safety and environmental management, cost competitiveness in a reliable, quality operation are priorities, he went on to state. While there may be a grieving process associated with the loss of the DuPont name, the company will "get beyond that" and continue to find new opportunities. "There's going to be change over time... and at the end of the day we've got to change along with what the market demands."

Growth and expansion will be aggressively pursued, added Hendriks. No changes in jobs are expected, although he cautioned this is dependent on the success and competitiveness of the businesses within the new ownership.

Restructuring

Hendriks explained EI DuPont (the global company) announced in 2002 its intention to split off DuPont Textiles and Interiors. The global DuPont nylon, lycra and polyester businesses are being amalgamated into one entity and are being separated from EI DuPont either through a sale or initial public offering. This new separate entity is creating a new identity for itself through Invista.

DuPont Canada has been split into two entities, one consisting of the nylon and lycra business, as well as fluorochemicals (Maitland), engineering polymers (Maitland), DuPont performance coatings (Ajax) and packaging and industrial polymers (Sarnia).

As a result, Maitland, Kingston, Ajax and Sarnia will become Invista sites. Koch Industries already owns a large polyester business known as KoSa. If the deal goes through, Invista will be combined with KoSa to form a division within Koch Industries called Invista which will have more than 24,000 employees at over 60 manufacturing facilities in 20 countries. Koch is the second largest privately-owned company in the world.

Invista will be the world's largest integrated fiber company with the most extensive global reach, Byker said, with leading consumer brands, robust technology and an innovative product line.

Three men wanted in connection with thefts from downtown stores

PRESCOTT ­ Town police suspect thefts that took place at two downtown businesses last week are connected.

Gold chains with a total value of about $2,000 were reported stolen from SuGold Jewellers on King Street Sept. 8. The next day, stamps valued at more than $385 were reported stolen from Canada Post on Centre Street. In both cases, three males were observed in the store prior to the thefts.

Prescott police believe the same people are responsible for the two thefts. The males are described as being between 25 and 35. Constables Richard Champagne and Cindy Bisson are investigating.

In all, town officers responded to 92 general incidents and three motor vehicle collisions during the week of Sept. 8.

As The Journal reported earlier this month, a woman had advised police $300 was withdrawn from her bank account. She had left her bank card in an ATM in downtown Prescott; withdrawals of $200 and $100 were made.

As a result of a police investigation, Kevin Roche, 65, of Prescott has been charged with theft. He is to appear in court at a later date. Constable Mike Lapensee is the investigating officer.

Three wallets were reported missing in separate incidents. The first was reported Sept. 9; a man noticed his wallet was missing and began searching for it near Mr. Gas on King Street. The man saw the wallet on the ground; a male described as being 14 or 15 picked up the wallet and ran away. Constable Bisson is investigating.

The second case was reported Sept. 10. A Henry Street West resident indicated his wallet had been stolen from his residence sometime during the past couple of days. The wallet contained personal ID and $15. The man also discovered his blue and silver Dyna Void bike valued at $200 had also been stolen. Constable Mike Ostrander is the investigating officer.

The third theft occurred Sept. 11 at South Grenville District High School. A student reported his wallet had been stolen from his locker while he was at football practice. The wallet contained $80, a $25 CTC gift certificate, a bank card and personal ID. The investigating officer is Constable Darren Davis.

A Mikita cordless circular saw and drill were removed from the back of a truck parked at the municipal building on Dibble Street. The tools, which were in a large Mikita case, are valued at $400. The theft was reported Sept. 11; Constable Davis is investigating.

On the same day, a bike was reported stolen from King Street in front of Alpine. Tim Hortons had given the Minelli bike to its owner for performing 30 hours of community service work. Constable Lapensee is the investigating officer.

Police responded to a complaint Sept. 12 at about 5:25 am. A driver who had just used the drive-thru window at McDonald's was suspected of having been consuming alcohol. A vehicle was located and stopped by police. Andrew Dickson, 25, of Prescott was arrested and charged with driving while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit; he is to make a court appearance at a later date. Constable Shawn Steinburg is investigating.

On Sept. 10, a Central Public School teacher reported the windshield of her 2002 Toyota parked near the school had been smashed. Damage is estimated at $300; Constable Lapensee is handling the case.

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. In case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

War memorial moved from park to more prominent site at Legion

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Recognition of its veterans is what the Prescott Legion is seeking after moving the World War I monument to the Legion property on Henry Street.

Relocating the monument, which used to sit at Centennial Park near the pool, was one of the Legion's major plans for years now along with the movement of the cenotaph to the Fort Wellington field.

"About four years ago the veterans at the Legion got the idea to move the memorials," said Legion President John Martineau. "The World War I memorial was in the (Centennial) park out of the way where it wasn't seen very much. We wanted to put it in a more prominent spot where it would be more visible to the public and the veterans."

With the monument's move a couple weeks ago Martineau is happy to see the memorial coming closer to the Legion where it can be taken care of much more easily.

"It was in a bad state of repair down there," said Martineau. "It was sinking into the ground and some of the names on the plaque could barely be read. It also is a way we keep it up the way it should be kept."

After receiving approval to move the memorials in fall 2001 after Ed Greene made a presentation to council on the groups behalf, the Legion has worked at completing the project one step at a time.

"We approached council in the fall, got through the winter and then got the memorial at the fort field up in June 2002," explained Martineau. "So now we've been working to get this done."

Martineau indicated work on the memorial has been ongoing by many of the group's veterans and dedicated volunteers.

"Moving this monument really hasn't cost us much," said Martineau. "The veterans and volunteers have been great and have helped us keep the cost down on this relocation compared to the one in the fort field."

The memorial is also undergoing improvements, with the plaque refinished and the stone base to have a poppy etched into it as a sign of remembrance. Martineau is hoping the memorial will help inspire the community and make it recognize the importance of their veterans and the Legion.

"Within about ten years we might not have any World War I or World War II veterans left," said Martineau. "We've been lucky enough at the Legion to gain 80 new members in the last three years, but we'll need to keep that up in order to help keep things going. We're hoping this might give us a little more exposure and make the community more aware of its veterans and the Legion and what it does."

Work on the memorial will continue, with its re-dedication set for Sunday, Sept. 21 as part of Legion Week activities.

Provincial election candidates to speak at Prescott meeting

Incumbent Bob Runciman not expected to attend debate

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Residents of South Grenville will have their chance to hear what many but not all of the provincial election candidates in Leeds-Grenville have to say.

A meeting will take place this Thursday, Sept. 18 at 7 pm at the Prescott Legion Hall on Henry Street. The meeting, intended to focus on health care and the economy, is being organized by workers at Brockville Psychiatric Hospital in conjunction with the Ontario Public Service Employees' Union (OPSEU).

However, incumbent MPP Bob Runciman is not expected to attend.

In an e-mail to one of the organizers of the Prescott meeting, Runciman's campaign manager, JoAnne Best, notes the Conservative candidate already has a commitment for Thursday evening. Best also notes Runciman is committed to participating in just four debates ­ Brockville, Gananoque, Kemptville and one on agriculture to be held in Toledo ­ because of the election campaign's short timeframe of 28 days.

Runciman echoed that sentiment during an interview with The Journal Saturday. However, he was unable at that time to say what the previous commitment is tomorrow night. He noted it is a busy campaign, and he is unable to keep track of all of his future campaign stops.

Meeting organizers received word from Liberal candidate Stephen Mazurek, New Democrat Steve Armstrong and Green Party candidate Jerry Heath that they would be available to be in Prescott Thursday evening.

The MPP indicated the fact OPSEU is involved in the candidate meeting in Prescott has no bearing on his availability. The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce was in the process of organizing a similar meeting, but opted not to proceed after it was learned another meeting was already in the works.

"The answer would not have been any different" if the Chamber of Commerce had organized a meeting for Thursday, according to Runciman.

Bob Eaton, regional vice-president of OPSEU, said there was no intent to ambush Runciman at the Prescott meeting. The candidates are being invited to share their views on important issues affecting BPH workers and the community as a whole, according to Eaton.

He went on to state Runciman's position on limiting the number of public meetings he attends during the campaign is an example of "complacency or arrogance."

The Conservative candidate said he is making himself accessible, adding candidate meetings are not the most effective use of what time he has prior to election day.

The moderator of the Prescott meeting will be Mike Boszormeny of CHUM Radio Brockville.

Each candidate will be given time at the beginning of the meeting to make statements. Written questions will then be drawn at random. The meeting will conclude with closing statements by the candidates.

Runciman is expected to be on hand at the candidates meeting being hosted by the North Grenville Chamber of Commerce Friday night at St. Michael Catholic High School in Kemptville. Another public meeting being organized by the Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce will be held Monday night (Sept. 22) at 7 pm at the Memorial Centre.

Passion to serve is still there: Runciman

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Bob Runciman says he will continue to do what is best for all areas of Leeds-Grenville.

The Progressive Conservative incumbent, who is also public safety and security minister in the Ernie Eves government, has been a member of the Ontario legislature since 1981. Runciman noted in an interview with The Journal people should be careful not to make assumptions about his interest in continuing to work hard and serve the riding after more than 20 years in office.

"I am still passionate about it," he said. "I always want to make sure it (Leeds-Grenville) is in the provincial equation."

Runciman said the Ontario economy is better off now than it was eight years ago when the Tories defeated the NDP and won the first of two consecutive majority governments. The province was "on the verge of bankruptcy" when the New Democrats were voted out in 1995, according to the MPP.

In response to criticism of the Conservative record on health care, Runciman noted the Tories have increased health-care spending by 60 per cent during the past eight years. The range of services has improved dramatically over that period, he added.

Runciman believes the $200 million in capital spending the Conservative government has pumped into the riding compares well to other ridings in the province. The incumbent views Leeds-Grenville as a single unit in which a number of communities benefit from projects such as the new correctional and treatment centre being built in Brockville as well as the expansion of Brockville General Hospital and court house renovations.

The Conservative candidate acknowledged the charity casino issue is still a sore point for some people in the Prescott area. Runciman said the reality is Prescott would have had a casino if the town had held a referendum prior to a moratorium being imposed a few years ago. Eventually, a process involving Prescott and three other municipalities in the region was initiated; a site beside Highway 401 at Gananoque was chosen to house the 1000 Islands Charity Casino.

Runciman insists businesses throughout the area benefit from the casino, not unlike other major employers such as DuPont in Augusta Township.

The MPP said the province remains committed to providing one-third of the funding needed to refurbish Prescott's aging sewage treatment plant.

"Any time Prescott has come to me, I've done my best," he said.

In response to the Liberal campaign theme, Runciman said change for the sake of change does not make sense. There should be solid reasons to make changes, and the MPP believes his party has earned a chance to remain in power.

Leadership vote

BROCKVILLE ­ The Leeds-Grenville federal Liberal riding association will be conducting its party leadership delegate vote this Friday, Sept. 19 from 5 to 10 pm at Thousand Islands Secondary School on Parkedale Avenue.

Voting will be open to those who purchased current memberships prior to June 20 of this year.

For more information, call (613) 273-4510 or visit www.leedsgrenvilleliberals.ca.

Young cyclist hurt in collision

PRESCOTT ­ A seven-year-old boy sustained minor injuries when he was struck by a pick-up truck while riding a bike late last Tuesday afternoon.

The boy was westbound in the eastbound lane of Churchill Road between Boundary Street and Woodland Drive at about 5:40 pm. He swerved to go around a parked car and was struck by an eastbound vehicle driven by Phillip Libby of Prescott.

The boy, Will Street, was taken by ambulance to Brockville General Hospital, where he was treated and released. He was not wearing a bicycle helmet at the time of the collision, according to police.

No charges were laid. Constable Cindy Bisson is the investigating officer.

Town hall project close to being within budget

PRESCOTT ­ Renovations to the Dibble Street municipal building could be completed by the end of October, according to Construction Manager Brad Snelling.

Work at the three-storey town hall began earlier this year. Snelling told Prescott council members at a committee meeting Monday night the project lost some momentum this summer but is back on track.

"Things are going very well right now," he said.

Snelling explained there were problems with the availability of certain sub-trades in July and August. "We definitely did lose some time there," he remarked.

However, progress has been made in recent weeks. Snelling said heating, ventilation and air conditioning work is between 80 and 90 per cent finished. Electrical work is "pretty much complete," he added.

The elevator shaft should be completed by the end of this week, according to Snelling. Installing the elevator will take longer than originally expected; the elevator is now expected to be in place by the end of next month. Snelling said he does not believe town staff's return to the second floor of the building would have to be delayed until the elevator is in place.

The budget for the renovation project had been set at about $840,000. When asked by Mayor Robert Lawn to provide an updated cost estimate, Snelling said things are "still running pretty close" to the budget, although expenses might be slightly higher than the original estimate.

Adding to the cost of refurbishing portions of the former high school are the filling in of the old gymnasium, which has been earmarked for library expansion plans. Snelling noted the new stack room floor was poured Friday.

With the proposed interlock brick, ramps and minor enhancements to the grounds, as well as landscaping work proposed by Astrid Strader and Prescott Blossoms and approved by council, these additional items have an estimated cost in the range of $50,000.

Town prepared to buy station

PRESCOTT ­ The town has agreed in principle to purchase the former railway station from Canadian National (CN).

Council responded favourably to the idea at a committee meeting held Monday night.

Town CAO/Clerk Robert Haller told council the real estate branch of CN would be prepared to sell the former Grand Trunk station for $1. CN would retain ownership of the land to the south of its main line but would lease the land to the municipality on a long-term basis.

The building, which dates back to the 1850s, has not been used as a full-service train station for about 25 years. VIA Rail passenger trains no longer stop in Prescott.

By giving its approval in principle, council will enable CN to begin the transfer process. The rail company has offered to provide an inspection report, according to Haller. Transfer of the deed would not take place until council reviews and accepts a formal offer from CN.

Ambassador, Little Sir and Little Miss crowned at Spencerville Fair

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - The Ambassador and Little Sir and Little Miss pageants gave the crowd something to cheer about Friday night at the Spencerville Fair.

The winner of the 2003 Spencerville Fair Ambassador Pageant was Alison Polasz, 16, of Roebuck, who was all smiles throughout the night with her own cheering section consisting of family and friends showing their support.

"I'm just thrilled," said Polasz. "I can't believe it; it's such a surprise to win."

For Polasz, who has been coming to the fair for years, the ambassador pageant never really registered on her radar.

"I never really was aware of the pageant in the past," said Polasz. "I'm hoping that I can help to change that and make it more aware to the youth."

Polasz, who wowed the judges with her comments on corporate vs. family farming, is happy with the experience after being pushed to enter.

"I actually was contacted about going out for this," explained Polasz. "I'm glad I did; it was a good experience and it's something I can tell my kids about."

Polasz's parents, Adam and April Polasz, were among the first to congratulate the new ambassador after the pageant.

"It's a thrill for me and I'm happy for her," said Mrs. Polasz. "I'm sure this will keep her busy for her last year of high school."

Christina Conklin was the first runner-up and was one of the crowd favourites all night, while Kristy Farrell was named Miss Congeniality. Other contestants were Ashley Couperus, Chelsea Knapp and late entrant Emily Knapp.

Outgoing fair ambassador Lisa Weststrate thanked the fair board and her friends and family for their support during her reign as ambassador and outlined some of the duties that the 2003 ambassador would be taking on.

In the Little Sir and Little Miss pageant, the kids stole centre stage answering a variety of questions from Master of Ceremonies Bruce Wylie with cute honest responses which kept the crowd smiling all night.

Little Sir winner Chase Tetreault, 9, was a favourite with the crowd drawing some cat calls from the young ladies in the audience throughout the contest.

The Little Miss winner was Missy Schutten, 8, who also had the crowd wrapped around her little finger with her shy smile and soft-spoken answers.

The contestants answered various questions about what they like to do and what they want to be when they grow up, which brought out a wide variety of jobs including a police officer, a princess and taking over their daddy's auto parts store.

Six boys participated in the Little Sir contest, while ten girls participated in the Little Miss pageant.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I thought it was a blast."

Spencerville Agricultural Society President Sheila Bush, commenting on the 148th fair

Editor's Notebook

CAMPAIGN HARD ON VOTERS, TOO: As the provincial election campaign hits the midway point, media outlets are being bombarded with news releases, letters to the editors and other politically-motivated material the likes of which is rarely seen at any other time. Candidates and their supporters from wherever suddenly show an interest in your cause and suggest ways they can do things better than the others in the race.

Many of the people who are "main-streeting" are probably somewhat or quite sincere about representing the community's interests. However, there appear to be others who are running for political office or are trying to stay there because, at this point in their lives, they know nothing else.

Close to home, The Journal will provide coverage to candidates, the parties and their leaders who actually spend time in South Grenville. For the record, Brockville is not in South Grenville. With all due respect to the premise of equal time, those who cannot be bothered to make an appearance here do not deserve much attention in the pages of a community weekly.

Candidates who show up for the meeting planned for the Prescott Legion tomorrow night will have some of their comments and positions reported next week. However, the best way to get a better sense of who and what these people are all about is to hear them in person.

There will also be public meetings in Kemptville Friday and Brockville next Monday. Even with television and radio ads and Web sites, candidates big and small offer more of what they are all about when they come knocking or deliver a speech to a service club or public gathering.

There is nothing in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms that states voters must base their choice on research and logic and factors with which a reasonable person would agree.

As much as a portion of the electorate is disinterested or has lost faith in the system and politicians in general, it is still up to the voters to pick an option and try to live with it. So hold your nose if you have to and mark an "X" beside someone's name. The system might not be perfect, but it is the only one we've got.

BIGGER AND BETTER IS RIGHT: Organizers of the 148th edition of the Spencerville Fair were not kidding when they said this year's show would be bigger and better than ever and full of changes. Although there were glitches and minor setbacks which can be overcome, the folks at the agricultural society and fair board deserve a lot of credit for coming through and making the annual event memorable.

They proved a mix of agriculture and entertainment (with a heaping helping of sunshine thrown in for good measure) is a recipe for success.

Tim Ruhnke

Community volunteering means being part of the solution

FORWARDING COMMENTS by Monica Whitney

I've always been big on volunteerism - who wouldn't be? Without volunteers, many of our activities and community programs could not exist. Take the Spencerville Fair, Harbour Days and the Cardinal Labour Day Festival, the drivers who take patients to hospital, the creation of recreational and community parks and helping teens find their way, just to name a few.

Our lives would not be nearly as brilliant and full if it were not for the selfless acts of time and talent given every day by hundreds of people just in our own area.

But as in favour of volunteerism as I am, I have my own excuses for not putting out: I have a demanding job that requires working nights and weekends and a large family that needs me. I don't have the time - somebody else can do it. That's probably a familiar line many of us have used ourselves or heard.

Thankfully, many people do find the time to fundraise for a charity, teach a child to read or feed the hungry.

This summer while I was on holidays, I had the opportunity to see first hand volunteer work in action. My son and I were riding on our bikes past the food bank on Henry Street on our way to the garage to check on the family van that was in for repairs, when we were flagged down by a person getting buried by the minute in boxes of laundry soap. She asked if we could spare some time to help unload the Kriska truck of the boxes of the soap from Procter and Gamble.

I was able to help for about a half hour carrying in the heavy boxes - providing some relief for the regular seniors who volunteer at the food bank. One volunteer, if I recall correctly, said she was 73 and she was taking a much-needed break while her heart calmed down. One volunteer senior was manning the phones and the office work, while the others sweated in the scorching heat of the day unloading the boxes.

My son, however, was able to stay until the truck was empty, and he appeared happy for something to do to add more interest to his vacation and be useful. He certainly didn't protest, and had plenty of questions about the role of the food bank afterwards.

My own involvement was minimal, but the rewards were maximum. I felt really good about my small part, knowing I was doing a bit to help the community become stronger and gaining some insight at the same time.

Despite the load carried on by the handful of hard-working individuals, it was a cheerful place, with its volunteers ready to lend a hand to those in need.

But while I was at the food bank, I knew there were scores of teens and young adults loitering in and around downtown. What an easier and lighter load it would have been if even just a few of them could have come forward to be part of the solution.

New test system designed by RCA staff is best in world

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Sept. 21, 1933

* Advertisement: 78th year of the Spencerville Fair. Sept. 26 and 27, 1933. The oldest and best fair in Eastern Ontario. Known everywhere to have the finest display of fruits and vegetables. Adults: 25 cents. Children under 12: 15 cents. Autos: 25 cents. G.A. Drummond, president. A.I. Millar, secretary.

Sept. 16, 1943

* Rev. J.B. Creeggan is in Prescott to begin duties as rector of St. John's Anglican Church, succeeding the late Rev. H.R. Pettem. Mrs. Creeggan and children Burnett and Mary Isobel have also taken up residence at the rectory.

Sept. 17, 1953

* Tannier Motors will open the new modern garage and service station on King Street East at the corner of Russell tomorrow. The new garage includes the latest features of building construction and equipment, and is a splendid addition to the growing automotive trade in Prescott.

Sept. 19, 1973

* Already with the reputation in the industry as the colour television capital of Canada, Prescott can now boast its new test system designed locally by RCA staff is the best in the world. The testing procedure is called STAR (Stress Test Analysis and Reliability.) It is the brain-child of Plant Manager Ed Byrum, and was developed entirely in the Prescott plant by a team of local engineers and technicians.

This makes RCA the leader in quality control in the world, which is expected to reflect in major sale increase of the Prescott-made sets next year. Celebrating the success were Jim MacKay, resident engineer, Doug McVicar, manufacturing manager, and representatives of RCA plants in Montreal and Indianapolis.

Sept. 22, 1993

* Prescott resident Barb Mills is the returning officer for Leeds-Grenville, preparing for the Oct. 25 federal election.

Perhaps minimum age for exercising franchise should be 25

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

For the first time in many, many election campaigns, we have heard the political pundits actually express concern over the lack of interest by about one third of our population in taking part by voting in municipal, provincial or federal elections. The demographic group most conspicuous by its absence at the polling booths are young people between the ages of 18 and 25.

There have been all sorts of remedies put forth to make those in this youthful age group aware of their democratic responsibility, including fines or disenfranchisement. We don't agree with any of these "punishments", but instead recommend that the right to vote be limited to persons 25 and over on an automatic basis. Persons between the ages of 18 and 24 will be able to vote but will have to register with the Returning Officer's office to earn this franchise. This way, first voters at least, will be made aware that voting in a municipal, provincial or federal election is a privilege earned for them by earlier generations who went to war and who lobbied in unpopular political rallies to make elections more democratic.

The reason we place a registration responsibility on our youngest set of voters is because we look back at how grossly ignorant we and our contemporaries were of all things political at the age of 18, or 21, or even 24.

We were awarded our first franchise at the age of 22. Had we been given this privilege at the age of 18, we would have had been able to vote in three municipal elections, one provincial and two federal elections by the time the LCBO granted us our first permit book. Needless to say, we couldn't have cared diddly about political issues on any level when we were 18, 19 or 20. Granted, a few - a very, very few - of our buddies at that time were interested in political issues or voting results, but the vast majority of us tried as hard to avoid Mark Salmon's council meetings as we did Paddy Bingham's two jail cells in the basement of the same town hall.

Being raised in a newspaper family, we were often subjected to political discussions in our home, usually at supper time when Editor Jack would regale us with tales of such conniving Liberal scoundrels as Mark Salmon, Cardinal's own "AC" Casselman, or Walt MacDonald, the lone, but dangerous, Liberal, in Dundas County.

We were darned in those pre-21 days if we could tell the difference between a Liberal or a Conservative. We would hear such comments as: "The Dubrule brothers play the game well with Moss being a strong Liberal and Gerry a devout Conservative." The only difference we ever noticed as a teenager was that Gerry snorted and swore and Moss was a portly gentleman who smiled a lot and tipped his hat to ladies.

The Conservatives who sat around our living room in the evenings sipping Mother's homemade fruit brandy while she tried to get Jack to stop playing the piano (in fear that Father Fred Payne would start singing again) were sure there was a secret Liberal alliance that controlled the mayor's chair, and hence the council, in Prescott. Knowingly, they would reach as far back as the 1920s and come up with a list that included Frank Dubrule, Dr. Tom Patterson, John T. Horan, Bert McAuley, James P. Doyle and Mark Salmon.

Although we were not old enough to vote, we saw federal politics at its worst fought in Cornwall where the sitting MP was the Hon. Lionel Chevrier (Minister of Transportation at the time we think). We were working as the editor of Ontario Hydro's employee newspaper at the time, directly responsible to Prescott native W.A. "Bill" Barnes, HEPC's director of labour relations. Big Bill went ballistic when he found out on election day that about 3,000 Hydro employees, all good Tories you can bet, who had been relocated to Cornwall from other construction sites, had been missed in the enumeration process by the Liberal-appointed Cornwall enumerators.

Our first ballot was cast in old Marlborough Township at the age of 22 when we were the quick-learning-political-pundit of the Kemptvllle Advance. Because we rented a house on the north side of the Rideau River, we voted in Carleton County, represented by Tory Dick Bell.

When we arrived at our poll location in the old township Orange Hall with just five minutes to spare before polls closed, the poll clerk and his assistant, the only two persons in the hall, even before we were three steps inside the door, enquired: "You Morris or Ditchfield?"

"Why?" we asked.

"Cause yer the only two hasn't voted in this poll so far," was the reply as we were handed our ballot and shown the voting booth in the corner.

We marked our ballot, refolded it carefully and gave it back to the poll clerk to drop in the ballot box as he had instructed.

The old lad took our ballot, opened it, nodded his head, then showed it to his sidekick who looked at it, smiled and nodded his head in apparent approval.

"You voted the right way, sonny," the poll clerk stated as he refolded our ballot and dropped it into the tin box.

With these two guys working the ballot box, we doubt even if they had to count the ballots in Poll 63 that night. And yes, Dick Bell was re-elected.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

People of Prescott make strangers feel welcome

The Editor;

Practising random acts of kindness. That is what a group of young fellows from our area on the west coast did last year. They travelled across Canada practising just that and inspiring people everywhere to live like that. They may not have made it to your friendly little town of Prescott, but you show evidence of that generous spirit anyway.

Did you know that's what you were doing when you welcome strangers like us into your hearts?

We arrived here having travelled all across Canada and back selling at farmers markets to pay our way. As you can imagine, we've seen a lot of places and met a lot of people. Never in over 6,000 miles of our adventure have we been so warmly welcomed.

It started when we went into the municipal office to get a permit from Annie. Everyone there was keenly interested in us. Rob, your CAO, gave us your pin and made arrangements for us to park our RV at the marina lot. We walked out of there feeling like we'd been friends forever.

The day of the market, everyone stopped and talked to us and cheered us on. From the generous spirit of the bakery lady to Kelvin and his jam, all were hospitable. Kelvin even invited us, strangers he didn't know, to his home for dessert. Rene from the Windmill society promised us he'd come back to take us on a private tour of the Windmill and did. He was a wealth of information on your history.

We will recommend Prescott as the town that doesn't just claim to be friendly but actually is. Keep up the generous spirit, folks, of welcoming strangers into your hearts and homes. This paranoid world we live in could use more of you.

Barb and Dave Rees
Powell River, B.C.

SCHOOL SCENE

Editor's note: School Scene is a weekly feature that notes some of the events, activities and achievements involving elementary schools in South Grenville.

ALGONQUIN PUBLIC SCHOOL: The school wishes to extend a warm welcome to the following staff who, together, have all the makings of an unparalleled team: Mrs. Christine Palmer, Mrs. Angie Brown, Mr. David Buckland, Mrs. Lynda Atkinson and Mrs. Laurie Young.

Mrs. Palmer, our Grade 2/3 teacher, joins us from Frankville/Addison, where she was adored for her "motherly" ways and her love of outdoor education. Mrs. Brown, our new French teacher, comes to us highly recommended from Grenville Christian College. It is especially nice to know that in addition to us choosing her, she chose us at Algonquin, requesting to combine the French teaching job at South Edwardsburg P.S. with ours at Algonquin.

Mr. Buckland is yet another very welcome addition to our staff, attempting to even out the odds a little for the men. He comes to us from Arklan, having taught there last year; he has a passion for teaching math and social studies.

Mrs. Atkinson also looks forward to joining our team, moving to Algonquin from Central P.S. in Prescott, bringing her experience and seniority as an educational assistant.

More details will be published next week.

CENTENNIAL '67/NORTH EDWARDSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOL: Welcome to all new and returning students at Centennial '67 and North Edwardsburgh Public School!

We welcome Mrs. Marcil-Irving and Miss Skakoon who joined the North Edwardsburgh staff and Mrs. Stewart, Mr. Vatcher and Miss Ross, who joined the Centennial '67 staff. Congratulations to Mrs. Daigeler who was with us for the first two weeks, and is now awaiting the arrival of her first child.

Mr. Crawford will be joining us soon to teach the Grade 5/6 class. Mrs. Baelde is still on our staff, but has changed her role: she is acting vice-principal and will continue with some teaching in grades 7 and 8.

We all wish Mrs. Fawcett a happy retirement and welcome a new principal this year, Mrs. Farley-Holmes.

The community will have a chance to meet all the staff members and visit our school sites at our open house and barbecue at Centennial '67 on Wednesday, Sept. 24 from 5:30-7:30 pm.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL: Students and staff of St. Joseph Catholic School were certainly glad to get back into routine this September. This year we have 10 classes and a total of 236 students. When visiting McAuley Road you will notice that we now have four portables gracing the east side of the school.

We welcome back our old families and are happy to welcome many new families to our community.

Grade 4 students are adapting well to their new learning environment.

Welcome also to new staff members: Stacy McGrath, Angela Pilon, Catherine McCabe, Meggen Swann, Barb Donnelly and Stephanie Reid.

We will be opening the doors at St. Joe's on Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 7 pm. Students are invited to bring their families to visit the school and their classrooms.

ST. MARK CATHOLIC SCHOOL: Welcome to the 2003/2004 school year. We hope everyone had a relaxing summer and is ready to meet the challenges that face us in Catholic education this year.

We have had a great start to our school year. It is nice to see everyone again.

On Wednesday, Sept. 17 (tonight), we will hold curriculum night beginning at 7 pm in the gymnasium.

Parents will have an opportunity to view the Catholic graduate expectations, the Ministry of Education curriculum documents, St. Mark Catholic School Code of Behaviour, tour our facilities, meet our staff, view Positive Identity sportswear items and enjoy some refreshments.

School photos will be taken Tuesday, Sept. 23 for grades JK/SK B to Grade 3 and Wednesday, Sept. 24 for our JK/SK A class.

Sportswear orders will take place Tuesday, Sept. 23 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Parent volunteers will be available with the rep from Positive Identity to size your child's clothing.

Have breakfast with the men's group this Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ The Seaway Men's Ecumenical Group resumes its monthly breakfast meetings this Saturday, Sept. 20 at St. Paul's United Church.

The all-you-can-eat breakfast begins at 8 am. Tickets are available at the door; all are welcome to attend. Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller will be guest speaker. Non-perishable food items or cash donations to the food bank will be accepted.

The church hall is located on George Street just north of Dibble.

Have a slice at the orchard

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

With the beautiful fall weather, we're taking a trip to the apple orchard. You can pick your own or buy the ready-picked. If you want to get a larger basket, the price will be better and you can share with your friends. Since we are going this Thursday, Sept. 18, please call 925-5300 before 1 pm if you would like to join us or share apples.

There are still a few openings in the dye workshop on Monday, Sept. 22 at 7 pm. The process we are using is relatively mess-free, quick and easy. We will be dying silk scarves that are 11 inches by 51 inches with your choice from our colours. Please call before the class.

The rest of the payment for the Magog trip is now due. Please bring it to the office.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Eleanor Hatch; 2nd, Ruth Britnell; door prize, Andy Britnell. Fun bridge ­ 1st, Delia Seeley. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Harry Nesbitt; 2nd, Andy Britnell; door, Richard Kingston. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Hilda Hutton; 2nd, Desneignes Amyotte; 3rd, Mary Reynolds.

All types needed at upcoming blood donor clinic in Prescott

PRESCOTT ­ Residents of the Prescott area are being asked to roll up their sleeves and give the gift of life next week.

A blood donor clinic will take place Thursday, Sept. 25 from 2 to 8 pm at South Grenville District High School.

Donors are needed more than ever as the need for blood continues to rise at a higher rate than donations. All blood types are in demand.

The Sept. 25 clinic by Canadian Blood Services is sponsored by the Grenville Fish and Game Club and the Kinsmen Club of Prescott. The goal is to collect 126 units.

Donors are encouraged to book an appointment time; to do so or for more information, call CBS at 1-888-2DONATE.

Time to shop at home

Full-service grocery to open Oct. 8

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL ­ Local shoppers will soon have a store at home with the opening of O'Carroll's Grocery Ltd., expected Oct. 8.

Bill and Dorothy La Berge will open the non-franchised grocery retail store at the site of the former Van Camp Freshmart on Dundas Street. The store will be a full-service grocery facility offering fresh meat and produce, daily baked goods, a variety of dry, canned and frozen food and special event platter service.

Cardinal has been without a grocery store since Dec. 31 when Van Camp's closed. Some existing stores in the village stocked up on grocery staples to ease the hardship on residents.

Formerly of Montreal until their recent move to Cardinal, the La Berges were encouraged in the business venture by their good friends, Chris and Marg Kempffer, who informed them of the opportunity.

"We took a leap of faith," said Mr. La Berge. "We felt there was a golden opportunity here."

After about six months of investigation and a lot of hard work, the La Berges put on offer on the property with several conditions, including the sale of their Montreal home and obtaining financing for the project. Mr. La Berge graduated from a recent small-business readiness program offered by the Prescott-based Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation, and the finalizing of the business plan was among the last step.

About 10 full and part-time workers are expected to be hired; interviews are now under way.

Mr. La Berge comes to the business with about 20 years of international marketing, sales and business development and project management experience in the Canadian high technology aviation sector. Mrs. La Berge brings a retail, sales and customer relations background to the enterprise.

Both grew up in small towns. Mr. La Berge noted Cardinal has the special typical friendliness for which smaller communities are known. He plans to carry on that closeness, offering friendly personalized service that will extend to knowing everyone's name, children's birthdates and customers' likes and dislikes. "We both enjoy people and know how people want to be treated," he said.

It may be a challenge to gain back local customers after the closing of Van Camp's, but Mr. La Berge is confident it can be done.

Customers who were forced to travel to Prescott or Iroquois and found the drive and larger stores a hardship will appreciate the focus on quality products, a smaller full-size store and personalized service as key elements at O'Carroll's, Mr. La Berge explained.

Mr. La Berge also sees a resurgence in Cardinal, with vibrant businesses in a closely-knit community with a lot of activities to offer. "We are looking forward to again living and participating in the development and growth of a smaller community."

New officer commands Sea Cadets

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Sea Cadets are back in service for the season with a new commanding officer (CO) at the helm.

Lt. (N) Roger Bourdeau, who has been the executive officer with the group since May, was introduced as the new CO at the groups change of command ceremony last Tuesday at the Cardinal and District Resource Centre.

Bourdeau replaces Lt. (N) Robert Lepage who has been the group's CO since February 2002, and will be returning to the Stormont Sea Cadets in Cornwall as a staff officer.

For Bourdeau, being the new CO of the Cardinal corps has special meaning.

"I've known this corp since its inception," explained Bourdeau. "I used to come up and help with their training. I look forward to taking command its a good group."

Bourdeau hopes to continue with the corps strong traditions and work within the community, but hopes to also boost their numbers.

"I'd like to continue to build up the strength of the corps," said Bourdeau. "Currently, we are at about 33 cadets and it would nice to build up to about 45 or 50. We'll look at continuing to improve the band and keep up with the work in the community."

Also introduced at the ceremony was new executive officer Naval Cadet Kelly Denis replacing Bourdeau.

Frank Noccey seeks ward seat

SPENCERVILLE - Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey announced his intention to once again run for council in the Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

Though he has not formally filed his papers, Noccey announced his intentions at Monday's council meeting, joining Ward Three Councillor Marie Thomson, who also recently declared as the only two candidates for councillor in their ward.

Noccey, who is a veteran member of council, currently sits on the Environmental Services/Public Works Committee, Port of Prescott Management Committee and the Cardinal Library Relocation Ad Hoc Committee as well as being an active member of the Spencerville Mill Foundation and its work in restoring the historical building.

Noccey, who has a lot of irons in the fire with his roles in numerous committees, looks to see some of the projects which he helped to start through.

"I would like to continue the progress which is already in place," said Noccey. "I want to continue to work hard to make the amalgamation acceptable to members of the township."

Noccey is retired from Rehau Industries, where he served as assistant plant manager after 30 years of service with the company.

He has also previously been involved in other organizations which have lent a hand to the township, including serving for 12 years as a member of the board of governors for the Kemptville District Hospital.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, Sept. 26.

Deputy Mayor Marie Thomson takes another shot at council term

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Another voice of experience is running for council as Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Deputy Mayor Marie Thomson has officially entered the race for councillor in Ward Three.

Thomson has served as deputy mayor of the township since being voted into the role by fellow councillors shortly after the 2000 election in which she was elected as a representative for Ward Three.

Thomson joins Councillor Frank Noccey as the only two applicants so far for a council seat in Ward Three, after both announced their intentions at Monday's regular council meeting.

The deputy mayor agreed with Mayor Dave Dobbie's assessment of what he would like to see completed with another term on council, including erasing old boundaries, continued road improvements and the introduction of high speed Internet service at no capital cost.

"Dave pretty much said it all," explained Thomson at Monday's council meeting after she, Noccey and Dobbie all announced their intentions regarding the fall election. "There really isn't much else I could say that he hasn't hit on."

Thomson also served a term as councillor in the former township of Edwardsburgh.

The mother of six and grandmother of two has a long connection to politics; her grandfather, James White, served as a councillor and warden of the United Counties.

Thomson has also spent six years as a trustee for the Leeds and Grenville District School Board, has been a member of the Edwardsburgh Lions Club for more than ten years and is a founding member of the Spencerville and District Winter Festival.

Other people running for councillor seats include Charlie Burrell and Dick Willis in Ward One and councillors Peter Martin and Bill Sloan in Ward Two. Two councillors will be elected from each ward.

Public meeting on water meter issue is Sept. 25

SPENCERVILLE - A date for the public meeting on the installation of water meters in Cardinal has been set for Thursday, Sept. 25.

The meeting will take place at 7 pm at the former Cardinal municipal office.

Township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald indicated representatives from the Ministry of the Environment, the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville District Health Unit, the Thompson-Rosemount Group, the Ontario Water Works Association, G.C. Toshack, the township auditor and perhaps Neptune Technologies would be in attendance to help answer questions at the meeting.

Big buck tickets available now

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Fish and Game Club's Big Buck Draw tickets are now on sale.

The draw will feature $150 for the heaviest buck, $75 for the heaviest doe and a ticket draw for $50, with all prizes handed out by the club during the first week of January.

Tickets are available at MacEwen's Gas Bar/Bayview Convenience in Johnstown, Cardinal Creations, Rona in Cardinal, Mustard's Variety in Iroquois, Iroquois Bait and Tackle or by contacting John Dugan at 657-1081.

Local walk in support of AIDS services

BROCKVILLE ­ A walk to raise money for AIDS service organizations in the region will take place this Saturday, Sept. 20 in Brockville.

The walk begins at 9:30 am in the back lot at 133 King St. W. The event is being held in conjunction with Kingston-based HIV/AIDS Regional Services. Walkers are encouraged to take part in memory of a loved one or in support of someone living with HIV or AIDS.

For more information or to make a donation, call John at 1-800-565-2209.

Brockville is the Leeds and Grenville walk site. Similar events are planned in about 100 communities in Canada.

Shakespeare volunteers to meet tomorrow

PRESCOTT ­ Anyone interested in becoming involved with next year's St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival is invited to attend a volunteers meeting this Thursday, Sept. 18 at 7 pm in the St. John's Anglican Church Hall at James and Centre streets

The inaugural festival, which took place in June and July at the amphitheatre on Prescott's waterfront, attracted a total of nearly 2,000 people over its 18-performance run.

Mother Daughter Walk supports heart and stroke research

BROCKVILLE ­ The Cheerios Mother Daughter Walk for Heart and Stroke is set for Sunday, Sept. 21 at Hardy Park in Brockville.

The fundraiser for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark office of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario consists of two- and four-kilometre routes along Brockville's waterfront. Registration begins at noon; the walk starts at 1:30 pm.

Participants collect pledges to support the foundation's HeartSmart Women's Initiative, which is aimed at increasing awareness of and raise money for research into women, heart disease and stroke.

Displays of jewellery, make-up and clothing will be set up. Entertainment will include clowns and performances by the Brockville Lions Steel Band and the Thrill Dancers.

For more information, call the foundation office at 345-6183.

Correction

The poem "Nurses" by Brian Valley that appeared in last week's paper had a line that was incorrect. The Journal apologizes for the error.

Here is the correct version:

Nurses

Longest days and nights that come, to "try" and up lift the spirit of the families.

They "ask nothing," in return, not even acknowledgement.

To give kindness with compassion without reservation, is this the "reward."

In this profession "the path walked," "do" they decide. For if and when the call is made, the best of them, will be there. The path of those "Angels," have been wavering thin.

The greatest reward "is to give life itself," thoughtfulness for others. ~ Brian Valley

Legion Week events

CARDINAL ­ The Royal Canadian Legion has a full slate of activities lined up for the week ahead. Branch 105 will kick off a season of public euchres Saturday Sept. 20 at 1:30 pm. Euchre is also played every Thursday evening starting at 7 pm.

Legion Week activities include an open house at the branch Tuesday Sept. 23 from 2 to 8 pm. The week winds up Saturday Sept. 27 with a yard sale in the pavilion from 8 am until noon, rain or shine. For information or to make a donation, call Hazel at 657-8933. The sale will be followed by a silent auction at 2 pm and a ham supper at 5 pm at the branch.

Local walk in support of AIDS services

BROCKVILLE ­ A walk to raise money for AIDS service organizations in the region will take place this Saturday, Sept. 20 in Brockville.

The walk begins at 9:30 am in the back lot at 133 King St. W. The event is being held in conjunction with Kingston-based HIV/AIDS Regional Services. Walkers are encouraged to take part in memory of a loved one or in support of someone living with HIV or AIDS.

For more information or to make a donation, call John at 1-800-565-2209.

Brockville is the Leeds and Grenville walk site. Similar events are planned in about 100 communities in Canada.

Shakespeare volunteers to meet tomorrow

PRESCOTT ­ Anyone interested in becoming involved with next year's St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival is invited to attend a volunteers meeting this Thursday, Sept. 18 at 7 pm in the St. John's Anglican Church Hall at James and Centre streets

The inaugural festival, which took place in June and July at the amphitheatre on Prescott's waterfront, attracted a total of nearly 2,000 people over its 18-performance run.

Mother Daughter Walk supports heart and stroke research

BROCKVILLE ­ The Cheerios Mother Daughter Walk for Heart and Stroke is set for Sunday, Sept. 21 at Hardy Park in Brockville.

The fundraiser for the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark office of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario consists of two- and four-kilometre routes along Brockville's waterfront. Registration begins at noon; the walk starts at 1:30 pm.

Participants collect pledges to support the foundation's HeartSmart Women's Initiative, which is aimed at increasing awareness of and raise money for research into women, heart disease and stroke.

Displays of jewellery, make-up and clothing will be set up. Entertainment will include clowns and performances by the Brockville Lions Steel Band and the Thrill Dancers.

For more information, call the foundation office at 345-6183.

Correction

The poem "Nurses" by Brian Valley that appeared in last week's paper had a line that was incorrect. The Journal apologizes for the error.

Here is the correct version:

Nurses

Longest days and nights that come, to "try" and up lift the spirit of the families.

They "ask nothing," in return, not even acknowledgement.

To give kindness with compassion without reservation, is this the "reward."

In this profession "the path walked," "do" they decide. For if and when the call is made, the best of them, will be there. The path of those "Angels," have been wavering thin.

The greatest reward "is to give life itself," thoughtfulness for others. ~ Brian Valley

Legion Week events

CARDINAL ­ The Royal Canadian Legion has a full slate of activities lined up for the week ahead. Branch 105 will kick off a season of public euchres Saturday Sept. 20 at 1:30 pm. Euchre is also played every Thursday evening starting at 7 pm.

Legion Week activities include an open house at the branch Tuesday Sept. 23 from 2 to 8 pm. The week winds up Saturday Sept. 27 with a yard sale in the pavilion from 8 am until noon, rain or shine. For information or to make a donation, call Hazel at 657-8933. The sale will be followed by a silent auction at 2 pm and a ham supper at 5 pm at the branch.

Jr. B Rangers to open season Saturday night in Cardinal

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers will be opening their 2003-04 season in the Rideau-St. Lawrence Jr. B Hockey League Saturday night.

The Rangers will open their season as it hosts the Westport Rideaus Saturday at 7:15 pm at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

The Rangers will then continue their season Sunday as they travel to Athens to take on the Aeros in an afternoon game at 2:30 pm.

Come out and watch the Rangers under new coach Rod Simmons as South Grenville looks to bounce back after some rough seasons in which they missed the playoffs.

Joanne Pillar Memorial slo-pitch tournament set for this weekend

PRESCOTT - Teams from around the region will be taking part in the first annual Joanne Pillar Memorial women's slo-pitch tournament Friday and Saturday at the Kriska ball diamonds in Prescott.

All women participating in the tournament must be over the age of 18 to compete.

The tournament draw is set to begin at 6:30 pm on Friday with games continuing Saturday, with the final scheduled to be played at 5 pm.

Pillar played, umpired and coached for numerous years in the Prescott and Brockville area; many of the teams and girls she coached are expected to take part.

2003 season winding down for Prescott Golf Club

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Golf Club is nearing the end of its 2003 golf season with a flurry of events.

The club will be hosting men's, women's and seniors closing events this week, with the seniors ready to tee off tomorrow (Thursday), while the men will hold their closing event on Saturday and the women will hold theirs Sunday.

The club will also be holding its Club Closing event Saturday, Oct. 4, to be followed by its annual fall meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 7 pm at the club.

Come out and hit the links one last time before the course closes for the season.

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