VOL. 173, NO. 53~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ December 31, 2003

Holiday business improves

Christmas season busier than last year, retailers say

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Santa Claus appears to have been fairly good to local merchants this Christmas.

Several retailers in Prescott are reporting improvements to their sales figures for the busy 2003 holiday season.

Lewis Beach, owner of Beach Home Hardware in Prescott, said the holiday shopping season was "pretty positive" at his store. "It seems there were lots of people around, and they were spending," he remarked.

Beach noted the store appeared to be a bit busier this Christmas than in 2002. Sales of snowblowers and other winter-related items were strong earlier in the season.

Beach also reported increases in sales of wood stove and chimney-related items; he cites the cost of heating oil and natural gas as reasons for the jump in sales.

Other merchants in town reported similar results for the holiday season. Ken Rundle, owner of the Giant Tiger store in Prescott, also indicated Christmas sales were up this year compared to 2002. So-called table-top products such as snowmen and other Christmas-related home decorations were strong sellers this season; Rundle added toy sales were also solid.

The store was very busy at the start of business on Boxing Day when seasonal items were marked down, according to Rundle. However, things "kind of fizzled out" as the day progressed.

As for the overall year, Rundle reported sales were not spectacular but at least kept pace with last year.

Jim French, owner of the True Value/Stedman's store in downtown Prescott, said business was slow early in the season but picked up as Christmas approached. "At least we're heading in the right direction," he remarked.

Overall, French believes this year's holiday sales topped those of 2002. People seemed to opt for more basic smaller appliances as opposed to fancier items, he added. It has been a good year for toy sales, French noted. Most retailers will close early today (New Year's Eve) and will not be open New Year's Day. Regular operating hours resume this Friday, Jan. 2.

THIS WEEK

Most places closed to start the new year

PRESCOTT ­ The offices of The Prescott Journal and St. Lawrence Printing will be closed tomorrow (New Year's Day).

Many offices and stores will be closing early this afternoon or tonight (New Year's Eve). Government offices, Canada Post, banks and most stores will also be closed Thursday, Jan. 1 but, in most cases, will return to normal operating hours Friday, Jan. 2.

As of Jan. 12, the price of a postage stamp for Canadian mail increases from 48 to 49 cents (plus GST). It will cost 80 cents (plus GST) to send a letter to the United States as of Jan. 12.

Town library closed today and tomorrow

PRESCOTT ­ The Prescott Public Library will be closed today (Wednesday, Dec. 31) and New Year's Day.

The library, which is located at 360 Dibble St. W., will be open this Friday, Jan. 2 from 2 to 5:30 pm and from 7 to 9 pm. Regular operating hours will then be in effect.

Legions set to host New Year's Levee

PRESCOTT ­ Everyone is welcome to help ring in 2004 at the Prescott Royal Canadian Legion New Year's Day Levee this Thursday from noon to 5 pm.

The annual event takes place in the main hall. Live entertainment will be provided by Bill Conley and Company; refreshments will be served.

The Spencerville Legion will also be hosting a New Year's Levee tomorrow at Branch 604.

The levee will run from noon until 2 pm at the Legion Hall and it is open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

Tickets are still available for tonights New Year's party featuring the band Ian Hornsby and the Bucksaw. The party runs from 8 pm until midnight.

Regular hours return Tuesday at food bank

PRESCOTT ­ The Food For All Food Bank will be closed today (Wednesday, Dec. 31) and New Year's Day (Thursday, Jan. 1).

The food bank, which is located on Henry Street West in Prescott, will resume regular operating hours (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 2 pm) next week.

Food for All serves residents of Prescott, Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and Augusta.

Council meets Monday

PRESCOTT ­ The first meeting of Prescott council in 2004 will take place Monday, Jan. 5 at 7 pm in the renovated council chamber on the second floor of 360 Dibble St. W.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council will also meet Monday night in Spencerville.

MP predicts active federal scene in 2004

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Health care, education and economic development remain top priorities as the new year begins, according to Leeds-Grenville MP Joe Jordan.

The Liberal MP told The Journal Monday he looks back on 2003 as "an interesting year." The country has faced numerous challenges and natural disasters such as forest fires, floods and hurricanes as well as the SARS outbreak and two mad cow disease scares.

From the national political perspective, Jordan acknowledged the leadership issue involving former prime minister Jean Chrétien and new Prime Minister Paul Martin was unprecedented and produced a certain level of "paralysis" that has now ended. Given the first few weeks of the Liberal government under Martin's leadership, Jordan expects the year ahead will bring an activist government that will seek a mandate from voters as soon as it can.

Closer to home, Jordan said 2003 was "a pretty static year" in terms of job growth ­ a fact that is cause for some concern. "Absolutely, there are some challenges locally," he added.

Jordan said he is "...increasingly concerned rural areas are being left behind." The MP said one of his priorities in the coming year will be to push for specific economic development tools that can be used for Eastern Ontario. The hiring of an economic development co-ordinator by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville was a good idea, Jordan noted.

The region has the advantage when it comes to location, but Jordan believes some of the negative effects of free trade are being felt here. The MP went on to indicate "Canada needs to have a much clearer strategy" when it comes to globalization. He believes some policies are "anchored in the past a little bit."

As for the creation of the new Conservative Party of Canada late in the year, Jordan referred to the amalgamation of the federal Progressive Conservatives and Alliance parties as the right move for them to make. Whether the new party has the time to get its act together prior to the anticipated spring election remains to be seen, according to Jordan.

In noting he won the 2000 election by 55 votes to Alliance candidate Gord Brown, Jordan said he is prepared for another challenging campaign just like the others he has faced. The Liberals' emphasis will continue to be on identifying party supporters and making sure they vote, the MP said.

"What do we do differently? Not a lot," he remarked. "I'd still be in a tough race."

Jordan is hopeful Canada's health-care system will be strengthened in the new year. He said spending money on health and education represents "critical social investment," adding he is also hopeful there will be a renewed spirit of co-operation between Ottawa and the provinces.

Mayor believes there are bigger and better things ahead for Prescott

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Robert Lawn is cautiously optimistic about Prescott's prospects in 2004.

In a year-end interview with the mayor Monday, Lawn told The Journal he believes the previous council improved each of the three years it was in office, although he noted progress has been "...more piecemeal than I would have liked." The new council began its three-year term at the beginning of December.

"The voters chose to make major changes," Lawn said. "My job is to work with the new council."

The mayor went on to state he is looking forward to working with the new councillors whom he described as eager to get to work on behalf of residents.

In noting the accomplishments of 2003, Lawn started with renovations to the Dibble Street municipal building. Although staff and council had not fully settled in on the second floor of town hall as of earlier this week, the mayor commented on how council had finally come to grips with the fact its home could no longer be the "little building" at Edward Street and Churchill Road that housed municipal offices for more than two years.

As renovations are just about completed, Lawn said council will have to turn its attention to improving conditions at the public library located in the west wing of the municipal building. The renovation project outlines the need to maintain municipal infrastructure, according to Lawn.

The mayor said he was disappointed the town's waste water plant project did not proceed in 2003. The municipality has yet to secure the lion's share of the estimated $15 million needed to upgrade the Johnstown plant to current environment ministry standards.

Lawn said MP Joe Jordan and MPP Bob Runciman are committed to supporting town efforts to obtain capital funding.

The continued uncertainty about the future of policing in Prescott was another disappointment in 2003, according to the mayor.

Although a decision on whether a court will hear an appeal of a recent court ruling that paves the way for disbandment of the Prescott Police Service is expected in January, town council might decide in the next few weeks whether it will pursue a municipal contract with the Ontario Provincial Police.

Three years ago this week, the previous council voted to proceed with disbandment in favour of an agreement with the OPP.

On the plus side, Lawn noted commercial development in the north end of town as well as plans for the municipality to purchase a residential subdivision at the north end of Mackenzie Road and Massie Drive. There is a critical need for the town to provide new housing and attract more residents, the mayor said.

The municipality is also continuing discussions with CN Rail to acquire the old Grand Trunk railway station. Lawn indicated there is an interest in the community to obtain the historic property which is not being used at the present time.

The growth of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival could be history in the making for Prescott, according to the mayor. With its second season set for this coming June, Lawn noted, the festival represents a major undertaking that has the potential to become a big draw for Prescott. The support of the community and experts in the theatre world are essential, the mayor believes. "It won't grow by itself," he said.

Lawn acknowledged the town has limited resources with which to operate. "We have to be a little frugal when we handle our expenses," Lawn said.

However, the mayor insists Prescott has many things working in its favour. These include its location, heritage and what Lawn believes to be the most important resource of all: its people.

2003 ­ YEAR IN REVIEW

January

Prescott opts to proceed with town police plan

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has reiterated its support for a proposed plan to disband the Prescott Police Department. Council decided in Jan. 2001 to pursue a municipal contract with the Ontario Provincial Police. A provincial commission declined to approve the disbandment about a year ago; a judicial review of that decision has been called for, but no hearing date has been selected.

Town hall renovation budget increases

PRESCOTT ­ The budget for renovations to the Dibble Street municipal building has been increased by Prescott council. The original amount of $800,000 approved by council last year has gone up to $834,000, plus an additional $9,000 for changes to exterior windows. Some members of council noted they expected the actual costs to be higher than what council had agreed to budget for the project. The costs are being covered by money the town received from the sale of the former PUC to what is now Rideau St. Lawrence Utilities.

MPP Bob Runciman will seek re-election

BROCKVILLE ­ Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman has announced he will seek re-election. The Progressive Conservative MPP has served in the Ontario legislature since 1981; he has been elected six times during the past 21 years. Currently, Runciman also serves as minister of public safety and security.

Prescott places call for emergency volunteers

PRESCOTT ­ A provincial pilot program has selected Prescott to take part in the Community Emergency Response Volunteers Ontario (CERV) program. A team of 20 volunteers will be trained to assist emergency response personnel when disasters, collisions or other situations pose a threat to public safety. The province will cover training costs; training is expected to begin later this winter.

February

Expansion at Pirelli could mean 50 jobs

JOHNSTOWN ­ Pirelli Cables Inc. is gearing up for a possible expansion that could add 50 workers to the payroll. The local manufacturer of medium- and high-voltage cables came to the Prescott area in 1982. Details of the expansion have yet to be confirmed, but company officials indicated the plant has received equipment from a California plant that has been closed.

Unionized Augusta workers might strike

MAYNARD ­ The Township of Augusta is facing labour trouble. Negotiations aimed at averting a work stoppage by unionized workers at the township had failed, and a majority of union members have voted in favour of strike action. The new local of the Ontario Public Service Employees' Union was certified last April; however, a first contract has not been agreed to by the union and the municipality.

Premier gives boost to open border policy

JOHNSTOWN ­ Premier Ernie Eves stressed the need to keep the flow of goods moving during a visit to the Prescott area Feb. 12. Speaking to reporters at the Port of Prescott, Eves addressed concerns stemming from American military action in Iraq and how it could affect border crossings like the one at Johnstown. Earlier in the day, the premier met with exporters and transportation company representatives at Kriska in Prescott. Ontario's economy cannot afford lengthy delays at the border, according to Eves.

Journal publisher receives queen's medal

BROCKVILLE ­ Prescott Journal Publisher John Morris was among 18 Leeds and Grenville residents who were presented with a Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal at a ceremony hosted by Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman. Former Prescott mayor Sandra Lawn and Spencerville-area resident and volunteer Muriel Irving also received medals marking the 50th anniversary of the succession to the throne by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Several other South Grenville residents have been honoured with the jubilee medal.

March

Strike is averted in Augusta Township

MAYNARD - Augusta Township's unionized employees signed their first collective agreement Monday, which will increase their wages by a total of 10 per cent over a two-and-a-half-year period. Eleven of the 14 employees voted in favour of the agreement that calls for a wage increase of three percent retroactive to Jan. 1, 2002.

Feds say no money left for sewage plant

PRESCOTT - The federal government has turned down a request to refurbish Prescott's sewage treatment plant. The town applied for provincial and federal money under the Canada-Ontario infrastructure program. Funding was turned down from the federal government, though, as all possible funds had already been allocated. However, MP Joe Jordan stated the federal government did not turn down funding, and coverage of the story did not reflect the facts.

Chamber of Commerce honours award winners

PRESCOTT - Community service, volunteerism and business achievement were celebrated at the recent chamber of commerce banquet. Among the honourees were Wilf Peters, manager of W.L. Peters in Prescott who received the outstanding business award, Ray Young who was named citizen of the year and Katie Beatty, recipient of the Connie Dickey youth award. Guest speaker at this event was Prescott native Steve McAllister, who is sports editor of The Globe and Mail.

No-smoking rule should apply to all: councillors

PRESCOTT - A counties-wide ban on smoking in public places might be a step in the right direction, according to Prescott Councillor Garry Dewar. Responding to a letter addressed to the mayor from the Rideau Valley Diabetes Services about a counties-wide ban, Dewar stated that he believes a no-smoking bylaw should be applied across the province, and not left up to individual municipalities, as it is now.

Dustin happy to be home and back at school

ROEBUCK - March 6 marked a happy day for a local family and the whole community as 16-year-old Dustin Ruigrok returned home. After a motorcycle accident left Ruigrok fighting for his life last August, he spent eight months in various hospitals undergoing extensive speech and physical therapy. Dustin was originally scheduled to return home in late April, but due to hard work and dedication on his part, he was able to come home earlier than expected.

April

Mayor seeks provincial approval for referendum

EDWARDSBURGH - A possible fall referendum on the de-amalgamation of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal might be in the cards after Monday's council meeting. Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie revealed Monday he had sent a letter to Premier Ernie Eves, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing David Young and Leeds/Grenville MPP Bob Runciman requesting the right to hold a referendum on the possibility of the de-amalgamation of the township.

Give it time, province says

TORONTO - Representatives of the provincial government are surprised and concerned about the de-amalgamation request made by Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie. MPP Bob Runciman indicated in a recent interview his desire for the two former municipalities to work out their differences and make the merger work.

Augusta says fishers must be stopped

MAYNARD - The township of Augusta has formally requested the Ministry of Natural Resources to open the quota on fishers. The township has expressed concerns about the animal since last fall, stressing it has become a nuisance and a threat to human safety.

Police take hard line on railway trespassing

PRESCOTT - Local police will soon be cracking down on trespassing along the CN Rail line in town. As of Monday, Prescott officers will be making a point of enforcing rules that require pedestrians to cross the railway tracks at either Boundary or Sophia streets or use the Edward Street overpass.

Fluoridation vote put on hold

PRESCOTT - There will not be a referendum on fluoridation this fall, Prescott Council has decided. Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller stated the matter was being put off to give everyone more time to consider the public health issues. The issue arose in March as a result of an equipment problem at the water treatment plant that resulted in staff applying the fluoride manually.

Banning runs for reeve of Augusta

MAYNARD - Darlene Banning plans to put her 25 years of observation and interest in Augusta affairs to work for her. The Algonquin Road resident has filed her nomination papers for the position of reeve of Augusta for the Nov. 10 municipal election. She is the first declared candidate for council's top job.

Mayor seeks provincial approval for referendum

EDWARDSBURGH - A possible fall referendum on the de-amalgamation of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal might be in the cards after a recent council meeting.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie revealed to council he had sent a letter to Ontario Premier Ernie Eves, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing David Young and Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman requesting the right to hold a referendum on the possibility of the de-amalgamation of the township. Amalgamation took effect in 2001.

Give amalgamation time, province replies

TORONTO - Representatives of the provincial government are surprised and concerned about the de-amalgamation request made by Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Dave Dobbie. MPP Bob Runciman indicated in a recent interview his desire for the two former municipalities to work out their differences and make the merger work.

Augusta says fishers must be stopped

MAYNARD - The township of Augusta has formally requested the Ministry of Natural Resources to open the quota on fishers. The township has expressed concerns about the animal since last fall, stressing it has become a nuisance and a threat to human safety.

Police take hard line on railway trespassing

PRESCOTT - Local police will soon be cracking down on trespassing along the CN Rail line in town. As of Monday, Prescott officers will be making a point of enforcing rules that require pedestrians to cross the railway tracks at either Boundary or Sophia streets or use the Edward Street overpass.

Fluoridation vote put on hold in Prescott

PRESCOTT - There will not be a referendum on fluoridation this fall, Prescott Council has decided. Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller stated the matter was being put off to give everyone more time to consider the public health issues. The issue arose in March as a result of an equipment failure at the water treatment plant. Fluoride has been added to town water for four decades.

Darlene Banning to run for reeve of Augusta

MAYNARD - Darlene Banning plans to put her 25 years of observation and interest in Augusta affairs to work for her. The Algonquin Road resident has filed her nomination papers for the position of reeve of Augusta for the Nov. 10 municipal election. She is the first declared candidate for council's top job.

May

Railway trespassing worse than expected

PRESCOTT - The high number of trespassers caught on CN Rail property in Prescott is troubling, according to Police Chief Bryan Somerville. Within a five day period, 11 people had been stopped by police as part of a campaign to raise public awareness of the dangers associated with walking on or beside the rail lines. A twelfth case of trespassing was later reported.

Former roads supervisor sets sights on council

MAYNARD - Augusta roads superintendent Garry Ferguson has announced his bid for township councillor in the November municipal election. Ferguson said he has tremendous support from his family and friends, and noted many residents of the township had spoken to him about running for this position.

refurbish Prescott's sewage treatment plant.

The town applied for provincial and federal money under the Canada-Ontario infrastructure program. Funding was turned down from the federal government, though, as all possible funds had already been allocated. However, MP Joe Jordan stated the federal government did not turn down funding, and coverage of the story did not reflect the facts.

Chamber of Commerce honours award winners

PRESCOTT - Community service, volunteerism and business achievement were celebrated at the recent Chamber of Commerce banquet. Among the honourees were Wilf Peters, manager of W.L. Peters in Prescott who received the outstanding business award, Ray Young who was named citizen of the year and Katie Beatty, recipient of the Connie Dickey youth award.

Guest speaker at this event was Prescott native Steve McAllister, who is sports editor of The Globe and Mail.

No-smoking rule should apply to all: councillors

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

Responding to a letter addressed to the mayor from the Rideau Valley Diabetes Services about a counties-wide ban, Dewar stated that he believes a no-smoking bylaw should be applied across the province, and not left up to individual municipalities, as it is now.

Dustin happy to be home and back at school

ROEBUCK - March 6 marked a happy day for a local family and the whole community as 16-year-old Dustin Ruigrok returned home.

After a motorcycle accident left Dustin fighting for his life last August, he spent eight months in various hospitals undergoing extensive speech and physical therapy. Dustin was originally scheduled to return home in late April, but due to hard work and dedication on his part, he was able to come home earlier than expected.

Railway trespassing worse than expected

PRESCOTT - The high number of trespassers caught on CN Rail property in Prescott last week is troubling, according to Police Chief Bryan Somerville.

Within a five-day period, 11 people had been stopped by police as part of a campaign to raise public awareness of the dangers associated with walking on or beside the rail lines. A twelfth case of trespassing was reported early this week. The town has initiated a process to study the possibility of eliminating train whistles in the municipality.

Water regulations plague some Augusta residents

AUGUSTA - A handful of Augusta Township residents who receive water from the Town of Prescott are facing extreme fee increases because of new provincial regulations.

The owners of six homes and a trailer park are facing an annual special area rate charge of $2,500 each to continue receiving town water and meeting monitoring and testing requirements. Municipal water has been supplied to the properties for decades.

New emergency team is prepared to serve

PRESCOTT - Public Safety and Security Minister and Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman was among those on hand to congratulate the 18 graduates of the Community Emergency Response Volunteers (CERV) program.

Prescott is one of ten communities taking part in the provincial pilot program aimed at supplementing existing emergency response personnel with civilians trained to deal with different types of problems. Members of the Prescott CERV received seven weeks of training in everything from first aid to the psychology of crisis.

Minister officially denies de-amalgamation vote

SPENCERVILLE - A Spencerville resident has received an official response nixing a proposed vote for the Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing David Young sent a letter to Pat Grant of Spencerville regarding her desire for a de-amalgamation vote in the township. The letter stated the minister was not prepared to place a question on the municipal election ballot regarding restructuring in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. Voters in Kawartha Lakes will vote on de-amalgamation in November.

June

Feds renew funding for Prescott Blossoms

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. Ten participants will receive work experience and develop skills during the 26-week program beginning later this month. Nine young adults graduated from the first edition of Prescott Blossoms that completed its half-year run in February.

Development of north end moves forward

PRESCOTT - The town will proceed with design work associated with the construction of a new road north of Highway 401. Prescott council agreed to hire Genivar Consulting group to do the work at an estimated cost of $29,750 plus tax. The road will extend about 0.9 km west from Edward Street and will service a new commercial area in which Riverside Pontiac-Buick is building its new dealership this year.

Half-century firefighting veteran honoured

PRESCOTT - Bill Countryman, veteran of almost 50 years, was honoured at the Prescott Fire Hall June 3 for his service to the Prescott Fire Department. He was given a standing ovation by his fellow firefighters at the surprise ceremony. An emotional Countryman humbly accepted many gifts and congratulatory certificates from the provincial and federal governments. He also noted he has no intention of giving up his volunteer work just yet.

Augusta concerned about trains at terminals

MAYNARD - Augusta Township council passed a resolution Monday night requesting the environment ministry to consider having input into the application from Ultramar Terminals with respect to lifting the current shunting restriction. This restriction on trains at the terminal is 11 pm to 7 am; the company applied to have the restriction lifted, according to council.

Merits of police decision challenged in court

TORONTO - A three-judge panel has reserved its decision in an appeal of a 2001 ruling that did not allow the town of Prescott to disband the municipal police department. A day-long hearing was held in Toronto June 13; the town requested the judicial review in response to a decision made by the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services (OCCOPS). An OCCOPS panel determined it could not approve a proposal made by the town and the Prescott Police Services Board to have the OPP provide service in the municipality.

Shakespeare festival prepares to open

PRESCOTT - Opening night of the inaugural St. Lawrence Shakespeare festival is just eight days away. The month-long festival featuring 18 performances of The Tempest premieres Thursday, June 26 at the amphitheatre. Artistic Director Deborah Smith told The Journal things are going "swimmingly."

July

Highway 16 resurfacing contract awarded

JOHNSTOWN - Two local highway infrastructure projects totalling $7.5 million have been approved by the provincial government. The four lanes of Highway 16 between County Road 2 and Highway 416 will be resurfaced this summer and fall. The highway, which serves as the Canadian access to the international bridge, has been in poor condition for several years. A 20-km stretch of Highway 401 between Maitland and County Road 2 west of Brockville will also be resurfaced.

Big water and sewer rate hikes are in the works

PRESCOTT - Town water and sewer rates would have to be doubled to reflect all the costs of providing those services, Prescott council has been told. A proposed water and waste-water business plan was presented at a special meeting of council. Environmental Strategies Limited (ESL) of Markham was hired by the town to come up with a financial model with which the municipality could oversee its water and sewer infrastructure. No immediate rate hikes are in the works.

Federal industry minister visits town sewage plant

JOHNSTOWN - A federal cabinet minister now has a first-hand account of how badly Prescott needs a new sewage treatment facility.

Industry Minister Allan Rock was in the Prescott area as part of a brief visit to Leeds-Grenville. The minister was joined by Liberal MP Joe Jordan and town officials for a tour of Prescott's water pollution control centre located just north of County Road 2 near Johnstown. The 33-year-old plant does not meet current environment ministry standards for effluent discharges into the St. Lawrence.

Revamping the plant has an estimated cost of more than $15 million.

Augusta reeve decides to seek re-election

MAYNARD - George Vail has decided to seek a second term as reeve of Augusta Township.

The current reeve has declared his intention to run in the November municipal election. Vail indicated despite a sometimes negative response the current council has received from some residents, he still intends to work hard for Augusta.

One million reasons for local couple to smile

RIVERVIEW HEIGHTS - Geoffery and Judith Caldwell received a cheque recently for $1,000,000 from the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The Caldwells, residents of Riverview Heights won one of three one-million dollar prizes in the Ontario Heart and Stroke Foundation Lottery. The winning numbers were drawn July 8.

Larvicide program takes aim at West Nile virus

PRESCOTT - A larviciding program designed to prevent the spread of West Nile virus is under way. The pre-emptive program initiated by the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is targeting areas in which mosquitoes breed. Larvicides in pellet and granular form are being placed in standing water at the bottom of catch basins. Health officials say the pesticide products being used kill mosquito larvae before they develop into adult mosquitoes.

Shakespeare festival ends successful first run

PRESCOTT - Organizers of the inaugural St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival are tired but pleased with the success of the first-year production. The last of 18 performances of William Shakespeare's romantic comedy The Tempest took place Friday night at the waterfront amphitheatre. Total attendance for the month-long run that began June 26 was about 1,900 according to Artistic Director Deborah Smith.

August

Lawn to seek second term as Prescott mayor

PRESCOTT - The mayor of Prescott says he needs to be involved. Without any fanfare or fuss, Robert Lawn told Prescott council he would be seeking another term as mayor. "I feel I can help the community further," Lawn told reporters after he announced his intentions. Lawn believes there are a number of unresolved issues he would like to deal with during the next council term that begins in December.

Work begins at Prescott skateboard park

PRESCOTT - Skateboarders will be completing kick flips and other tricks before they know it at Prescott's very own skate park. Work on the Prescott Kiwanis Club Skate Park is scheduled to start Monday, Aug. 11 at the Kriska Fields on Sophia Street.

South Grenville copes with power outage

PRESCOTT - South Grenville made it through North America's biggest power outage in history relatively unscathed.

As was the case for most of Ontario and several American states, the lights went out in the Prescott area at about 4:11 pm Thursday (Aug. 14). The massive failure, which is now believed to have originated in transmission lines in Ohio, brought most of the activities in this part of the continent to a halt.

Adrian VanSchie enters race for Augusta reeve

AUGUSTA - Former Augusta township reeve Adrian VanSchie is seeking a return to the council table.

VanSchie submitted his nomination papers for reeve earlier this week. VanSchie served three terms as reeve from 1991 to 2000. Prior to becoming reeve, he served one term as deputy reeve of the township.

Reeve George Vail is seeking re-election. Darlene Banning has also declared her candidacy for the position.

September

Fourth person enters race for Augusta reeve

MAYNARD - Former Augusta deputy reeve and councillor John McCrea is making another bid for the township job in which he feels he can do the most good and be an effective leader.

The Roebuck resident has announced his candidacy for the reeve's chair in the November municipal election. McCrea joins three others with aspirations for the job: current reeve George Vail, former reeve Adrian VanSchie and township activist Darlene Banning.

Spencerville Fair bigger and better than ever

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, Sept. 14, offered more entertainment, rides and activities than ever before.

Spencerville Agricultural Society President Sheila Bush estimates close to 25,000 people attended this year's fair, up about 10,000 people from years past.

DuPont celebrates 50 years in Maitland

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.

October

Craig Worden returns as candidate for mayor

PRESCOTT - Craig Worden has decided to take a second run at the mayor's chair in Prescott.

Worden is challenging incumbent Robert Lawn, who is seeking a second term as mayor. Lawn defeated Worden and Kelly Benish in the 2000 election. Worden noted there have been "a lot of people" who have come up to him over the past several months and suggested he try again to become mayor. Worden served as councillor during the previous term of town council.

Conservatives win riding but lose the province

LEEDS-GRENVILLE - There were mixed emotions at both the Progressive Conservative and Liberal campaign offices Thursday night (Oct. 2).

Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman was re-elected to the Ontario legislature by a margin of more than 3,600 votes over Liberal candidate Steven Mazurek.

However, the Liberals won a majority government by capturing 72 out of 103 seats province-wide, bringing eight years of Progressive Conservative rule to an end.

Voting by mail will get results in Augusta

MAYNARD - Augusta residents will not have to make a trip to a polling booth in the Nov. 10 municipal election - they can now vote from the comfort of their own homes.

The package will come through the mail clearly marked "Important-election ballot enclosed."

The envelope will contain an instruction kit that has a voter declaration on the reverse side that must be completed to have the ballot count.

November

Disbandment of police department can proceed

PRESCOTT - The Town of Prescott can proceed with a plan to disband the municipal police department, a court has ruled. However, the future of policing in the Fort Town remains up in the air. In a decision released Monday, the divisional court of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Toronto ruled in favour of the town's challenge of a 2001 decision made by the Ontario Civilian Commission on Public Services (OCCOPS). At that time, OCCOPS indicated it would not permit disbandment of the Prescott Police Service to proceed. An appeal of the court ruling is a possibility.

Town hall renovation bill tops $900,000

PRESCOTT - The first town council meeting in the renovated Dibble Street municipal building will likely take place early in December, according to CAO/Clerk Robert Haller. "The renovation project is going extremely well," Haller said at a recent council meeting. Most elements have been or are close to being completed, although there is a delay installing the new elevator.

Taylor upsets Dobbie; McCrea wins Augusta

SOUTH GRENVILLE - The voters have spoken, and Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal councils will soon have new people at the helm. Peggy Taylor won a very close race of her own to become mayor of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. Unofficial results give the ward one councillor a 35-vote victory over incumbent Dave Dobbie, who announced after his defeat he would be retiring from politics. John McCrea was the winner in Monday's Augusta township reeve race. He defeated former reeve Adrian VanSchie by a narrow margin. In Prescott, Robert Lawn was re-elected by a comfortable margin over former councillor Craig Worden.

Commission seeks appeal of police ruling

PRESCOTT - A court ruling that gives the green light for the Prescott Police Department to be disbanded is being challenged. The Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services (OCCOPS) has given notice of its intent to appeal the findings of a three-judge panel that ruled in favour of the town's proposal to disband the Prescott Police Service and enter into a contract with the Ontario Provincial Police. A decision on whether an appeal can proceed could come early in the new year.

Light Up the Night has the golden touch

PRESCOTT - It was a great time for Light Up the Night. Above-average temperatures and no rain made for ideal conditions Friday night (Nov. 21) as about 90 parade entries made their way through the Fort Town. Co-chair Barry Moorhouse said attendance appeared to be as good as or better than in 2001 when an estimated 15,000 people lined the parade route.

This year's event marks 50 years of Santa Claus parades organized by the Prescott Fire Department.

December

Renovated building ready for new council

PRESCOTT - The Monday night meeting of Prescott Council marked a pair of new beginnings. It was the first meeting of the town council that was elected Nov. 10 and the first time the public had a chance to see the newly-renovated Dibble Street municipal building. Following the oaths of office being taken by the mayor and new council members, the public was allowed to see the new-look second floor that will once again house the town's administrative offices. The official moving-in date is later this month.

Maitland spill a 'non-issue,' company says

MAITLAND - An Ultramar executive is discounting a major diesel fuel spill at Maitland terminals Dec. 4, but Augusta township officials are concerned they were not notified of the incident until five days after it occurred. "It's a non-issue," Louis Forget, Ultramar vice-president of public and government affairs, told The Journal from his Montreal office. Neighbouring residents should not be concerned, the company indicated. More than 700,000 litres of diesel spilled but were reportedly contained within company property.

Water under the bridge

PRESCOTT ­ Environment ministry officials acknowledged owners of Augusta properties that receive water from Prescott's municipal system might be exempt from additional water monitoring and testing requirements. The owners had been advised months earlier they would be subject to significant additional costs because the water came from another municipality.

However, the fact most properties have separate connections to municipal water lines ­ a surprise to ministry officials at an information session held in Prescott the week before Christmas ­ could mean there is no water testing required.

Back to business next week

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

Best wishes from Walker House to everyone in the area for the new year. Just a reminder that all the groups will be up and running again starting Jan. 5.

The monthly board meeting will be held Monday at 10 am. We have also set our annual general meeting for Friday, Jan. 23. The short meeting will be held at 11 am followed by a pot luck lunch. Everyone is encouraged to come.

Memberships are now due for the calendar year 2004. Please see me at the office on King Street West in Prescott to renew or get more information (925-5300).

We have had interest expressed in a fine needle work group and also a Scrabble group to meet once a month in the evening. If you would like to join us, please call and leave a message.

I appreciate everyone for all their greetings to me and to Walker House. You have all helped make the season one to remember.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Joyce Nesbitt; 2nd, Richard Kingston; door, Marion Fortier. Fun bridge ­ 1st, Delia Seeley.

OPP BRIEFS

Drinking, driving and speeding do not mix

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ A 47-year-old Kitchener man faces an impaired driving charge after he was stopped for speeding on Highway 401 between Edward Street and the Highway 416 exchange. OPP Constable Boutilier stopped a Ford Taurus Dec. 26 at about 5:10 pm. The accused, who was not named in a police news release, will appear in Brockville court in the new year.

The constable also pulled over a Buick Century that was travelling at about 170 kilometres per hour on the 401 in Augusta Township Christmas Eve at about 10:30 pm. The driver, a 23-year-old man from Scarborough, was charged with refusing to provide a breath sample, driving with no licence, having liquor other than in a licensed place and speeding. The man will also appear in Brockville court this coming year.

Several collisions occur on Boxing Day morning

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Grenville County OPP investigated 14 collisions during the week of Dec. 22. Seven collisions occurred Boxing Day morning; there had been what police described as a dusting of snow Christmas night. No serious injuries were reported.

RIDE checks continue through the new year

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The 2003 festive season RIDE campaign is nearing an end, but police are reminding motorists to expect RIDE checks at any time.

Grenville County OPP officers based in Prescott and Kemptville checked 707 vehicles last week. Four impaired driving-related charges were laid, and two 12-hour licence suspensions were issued.

Counterfeit money and minor mischief reported in town

PRESCOTT ­ The Prescott Police Service investigated 45 incidents and four motor vehicle collisions during the week of Dec. 22.

Another counterfeit $20 bill was reported by one of the banks in town Dec. 23. The serial number of the bogus bill is EIW3096433. Similar bills have been found throughout Eastern Ontario. Chief Bryan Somerville is investigating.

A storage shed door was kicked in at the soccer fields, but nothing was reported missing from the shed. Damage is estimated at $75. Constable Shawn Steinburg is investigating.

One of the pop machines in front of Giant Tiger was damaged, it was reported Dec. 24. No entry was gained. The stop sign in the parking lot had also been pushed over. Constable Mike Lapensee is investigating.

A Churchill Road resident advised police Dec. 27 someone had entered her vehicle without her consent. A number of small items were missing. Two youths were observed running away from the vehicle; names of the youths were obtained. Constable Darren Davis is continuing the investigation.

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. The Prescott police department office is located at the corner of Centre and Henry streets.

Calls to Crime Stoppers get results

KINGSTON ­ January is Crime Stoppers Month.

The program enables members of the public to provide anonymous tips for law enforcement agencies. In return, callers may be eligible to receive cash rewards. The local Crime Stoppers program does not subscribe to caller identification.

The number to call is 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"What do we do differently? Not a lot... I'd still be in a tough race."

Liberal MP Joe Jordan commenting on the prospect of facing a candidate from the new Conservative Party of Canada in next year's federal election

Editor's Notebook

Looking back and ahead

At this time when lists of resolutions are being compiled and thoughts of the new year are at the forefront, now is the time to offer a few realistic observations on 2004 and what might be in store for the Prescott area.

As we prepare to enter the new year, we hope our civic leaders can find a balance between addressing the immediate needs of the community and doing some long-term planning that often gets overlooked in this ever-changing world. After the new councillors have had a chance to become familiar with the way municipalities operate, we hope our elected officials will be able to provide decent representation. No one expects miracles or perfection, but residents should be able to count on their councils to respect the needs of ratepayers and explain to them why things are being done. In return, residents must allow those elected officials to do what they were elected to do.

The same goes for our representatives at Queen's Park and Parliament Hill. We expect Mr. Runciman will stand up for all of Leeds and Grenville as he sits in the opposition benches. We also hope Mr. Jordan will provide strong representation in Ottawa, although we recognize he will soon be busy trying to get re-elected in what we anticipate will be a spring election.

Closer to home, we hope the community-mindedness of the many volunteers who give of their time will continue in 2004. From driving senior citizens to medical appointments to working bingos to raising money for service clubs and worthy causes, it is difficult to put a proper value on the countless hours volunteers donate each year. As we saw earlier this month, children and young adults are playing a larger role in helping their fellow citizens. Organizing community dinners and collecting canned goods and toys are two examples of how young people should not be written off or put down for not having a positive contribution to make. On that note, keep in mind the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce will soon be seeking nominations for its annual awards for volunteer, business and youth of the year.

Even with the continuing efforts of civic leaders and volunteers, the bottom line is 2003 did not necessarily mean better things for many residents of South Grenville. As much as it would be nice to state things are looking up in 2004, we realize this coming year will also be a challenging one. All we can do is hope for good things, savour the victories whenever they come our way and cope with adversity as best we can.

On behalf of The Prescott Journal and St. Lawrence Printing, we wish our readers all the best in 2004.

Tim Ruhnke

Walking is not always good for your health in Prescott

THE NEW GUY BY Tim Ruhnke

When it comes to making new year's resolutions, I hope Prescott council might choose to resolve to make it easier for pedestrians to venture across Edward Street without putting themselves at significant risk. Town officials have admitted the so-called crosswalks are ineffective and do little to promote public safety in their present form. Given my own recent experience, I would concur. Two Saturday afternoons ago, at least 20 vehicles kept on trucking as I stood across from the high school waiting for some thoughtful motorist to read the signs and obey the law. Then again, I was also passed by a police cruiser that did not appear to be responding to an emergency call. If law enforcement turns a blind eye to the plight of pedestrians, why should the rest of us? In fairness, though, I admit I am aware of at least one occasion when I also kept on trucking as someone stood and waited.

The bottom line is those crosswalks are poorly lit and are about as useful as one antacid tablet at the big chili cook-off. I recognize the town has invested in north-end road and sidewalk improvements, and there is not much point in trying to address the situation as winter is just getting started. However, the council members who referred to public safety during their election campaigns will hopefully follow through and make Edward Street safer for students, the elderly and anyone else who faces the daunting task of crossing an increasingly busy thoroughfare.

***

On a similar note, I recall one of my first columns at The Journal focused on what I thought was the good work Prescott's public works department was doing to plow the streets. Although I maintain the crew is still doing a decent job, there are those of us who do a lot of walking (whether we want to or not) who would appreciate having main sidewalks cleared on Sundays. Anyone who tried to get from one end of Edward Street to the other on Dec. 21 would have found it to be tough sledding ­ especially going up the south approach to the overpass.

We know the streets are a higher priority, and we understand there might be increased costs and other factors associated with plowing sidewalks on Sundays, but the folks at town hall must not overlook the fact some people have to walk to work or get groceries or some other supplies. We concur with Mayor Lawn's desire to improve the quality of life in this town, and sidewalk clearing would be one small step that many people would appreciate. We cannot control the weather (as in when it snows), but we do have a say in how we respond to it.

Blaze destroys historic River Road homestead in 1943

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Dec. 30, 1943

* One of the real old landmarks of this district fell prey to the fire demon Dec. 23 when the Reid homestead on River Road West was utterly destroyed. The fire left nothing but the outer walls standing. The property now owned by Herbert Caldwell of Prescott and well-known of Caldwell Linen Mills, Iroquois, was the homestead of the late Senator John D. Reid. The home was occupied by the Johnston and Graham families, neither of which was able to redeem much of their household effects.

Prescott Fire Department kept the fire from reaching outbuildings by a single line of hose stretched to the river. Mr. Caldwell informed The Journal he intended building two bungalows to replace the lost homestead on "Hawthornes Farms."

* A very pleasant surprise was given to Mr. Chas. Ranson at the meeting of Central Lodge AF and AM No 110 when a purse and 25 new $1 bills were presented to him on the completion of 25 years as secretary of the lodge.

Dec. 28, 1983

* Grenville County will have a new agricultural representative Jan. 1 at the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food office in Kemptville. Farm management specialist Stuart Leyenaar will replace Doug Lambie.

* Dr. Eli Gottesman of Montreal has accepted the position of rabbi for the congregation of Anshe Zophen in Ogdensburg, N.Y., the place of worship for Prescott and area Jews. Gottesman is renowned for his professional efforts and accomplishments as a rabbi, scholar, author, editor and lecturing professor.

1938 - Prescott struggles to shed despair of Great Depression

FORT TOWN DIARY BY John A.H. Morris

We promise that with the year 2003 ending with this edition, so will the tribulations of local stalwarts from the 1938 era who have been brought back to life in the Diary the past month. Although Prescott was still in the grip of the Great Depression in 1938, the year seemed an extremely active and interesting one.

*****

One story we noted from the end of June, 1938, was an account of a near drowning and rescue in the St. Lawrence on the Leacy Coal Dock. Principals were eight-year-old John King and Fernand Boivin, son of Capt. and Mrs. Prudent Boivin. The Prescott Journal reported:

"The little King boy was playing with two chums on the Leacy dock at the foot of Centre St. when he slipped and fell into the river. Mate George Gow of the coal boat, Glenelg, which was discharging coal at the Century Dock, saw him fall in and yelled as he started down the ship's ladder to reach the scene. Fernand Boivin, who was standing at the rear of the Gold Glove Works, where he is employed, heard the shout and started to run for the dock. As he came to the end he saw the young lad come to the surface ­ for the second time according to Mr. Gow ­ and immediately jumped in and reached him in time to bring him to safety.

"After the boy was cleared of his unwelcome gift of water he was as good as ever and the incident was forgotten by all concerned, but it is this paper's pleasure to make the record public in tribute to the good deed of Fernand Boivin."

*****

Also listed in The Journal's promotion columns of June 30, 1938, were two of Miss Campbell's kindergarten students, Helen Pettem and Leona Brimson, who went from kg to Grade 1. A couple of decades later they became sisters-in-law, marrying Richard and Clifford Casselman, respectively. Some more names that popped up in the promotion lists in this 1938 copy of The Journal were Leo Boivin, Geraldine Dubrule and Dick Tobin, all who made the struggle from Grade 1 to Grade 2 at St. Mark's.

*****

And now, for a bit of sports trivia. Who was the first Prescott golfer ever to score a hole-in-one?

"Bill Raney, one of the most popular members of the Prescott Golf and Country Club, during a largely-filled tournament on the Camel Rd. greens last week." The course in 1938 was actually located on the Campbell Road, about three miles west of Prescott at Bradley's Whippoorwill Grove farm, now owned by I.H. Bradley. The golf story concludes with.... "the genial and popular Charlie Bradley is again appointed greenskeeper and the grounds are in tip top shape..." The next year, 1939, the club moved to its present premises on Boundary St.

*****

The draw for a basket full of fresh fruits and vegetables supplied by the Prescott farm market producers, was made Saturday, June 25, 1938, with Mrs. Frank Wardrop being the winner. Thursday, July 14: Mrs. Jos. Burke has purchased the George McCrea block of houses on James St., next to the catholic school and is making extensive improvements to same... The Prescott Journal is calling for the Provincial Dept. of Highways to improve the safety of Highway 2 at Brewery Hill, about one mile west of Prescott, near the McCarthy Brewery, where a Colonial Coach bus crashed injuring 20 persons recently... Emily McIntyre of Prescott was awarded first class honours in Grade 1 Theory and in Grade V Piano in the summer exams set by the Toronto Royal Conservatory of Music... John L. Reid, Mrs. Reid and their son Johnny moved from the Reid family homestead on Merwin Lane to Toronto a few years go, but Mr. Reid was back in town the past couple of weeks to check out his orchard of about 1800 trees, many of which still survive on Hawthornes Farms, owned today (2003) by Mr. and Mrs. Peter White. An expert from the Guelph College of Agriculture said sections of the orchard were among the finest in Eastern Ontario...

*****

May 1938... Consolidated Distilleries Ltd., who had acquired the J.P. Wiser properties in the early 1920s, started work May 11 demolishing the buildings. The warehouse building on the north west corner of King and Ann streets had been sold to the Newell Manufacturing Company in 1920. This long threatened move comes as a result of the company's dissatisfaction of the tax levies of the past... The barbering fraternity of Prescott, Cardinal, Iroquois and Morrisburg met recently in Cardinal to set prices at 35 cents for a hair cut and to agree for all to close half days on Wednesdays. Legal holidays to be observed include New Year, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Dominion Day, Civic Holiday, Labour Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas... Prescott Citizens' Band, under the direction of leader Joseph Fratura, will take part in a rally July 31 at Chesterville. Leader of the host band in Chesterville was Jack Morris.

2003 - YEAR IN REVIEW

Cardinal & District News

January

Grocery store checks out

CARDINAL ­ The closure of VanCamp's Freshmart on Dundas Street leaves the village without a full-service grocery store. It marks the first time in more than a century Cardinal has not had a grocer.

Meanwhile, the Ratepayers and Tenants Association is eying solutions, such as a shuttle service to Prescott or Iroquois, marketing the community to outside investors and adding food items to existing retail outlets.

Thomson continues as deputy mayor

SPENCERVILLE ­ Marie Thomson will continue as deputy mayor of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal for 2003. She was acclaimed to the position after no other councillor expressed interest in the job.

Mayor pledges two shall remain one

SPENCERVILLE ­ In his new year's address to the township, Mayor Dave Dobbie pledged the municipality would continue to be one, despite pressure from some residents the two should be separate once again.

Municipal office draws interest for use as library

CARDINAL ­ Township council is seeking public input on the possible move of Cardinal branch of the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal library to the former municipal building. Ninety people have already supported the relocation.

The six-year-old office building has been used sparingly since amalgamation with the township of Edwardsburgh in 2001, and was declared surplus last October.

February

Martin first to join 2003 election race

SPENCERVILLE ­ With more than nine months to go, Councillor Peter Martin is the first to declare his intentions for the November municipal election.

A veteran of municipal politics and a consulting engineer, he plans to run for councillor in Ward 2.

Birthday bash for Bessie

CARDINAL ­ Cardinal native Bessie Lamson celebrated another milestone birthday Feb. 8, when she turned 104.

Well-known as a Toronto Maple Leafs fan, Lamson now resides with relatives in the Burlington and Toronto area, although she tries to make a yearly visit to her farmstead north of Cardinal. She rang in her birthday as a special guest of Leafs President Ken Dryden at a home game.

High honours awarded for Legion service

CARDINAL ­ Norma Sherman and Marjorie Fairfield were awarded lifetime memberships to the Cardinal Legion Ladies Auxiliary for their many years of service to the organization. The presentations were part of the auxiliary's 25th anniversary celebration.

Twenty five-year pins were presented to Margaret Mason, Bernadette Cheetham, Margarete Campbell, Joyce Magee and Bessie Irvine.

Former councillor declares candidacy

CARDINAL ­ Former Cardinal councillor Dick Willis has decided to enter the election race for Ward 1.

The veteran of three non-consecutive terms as councillor has decided to bring some of his past experience to Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal council.

March

VON to offer clinic

CARDINAL ­ Cardinal has been selected as one of the communities in Leeds and Grenville to be the site of a VON nursing clinic. Beginning in April, the organization will offer a monthly walk-in clinic at St. Lawrence Medical Centre.

The clinics, to be staffed by registered nurses, will focus on health screening, health promotion, illness prevention and education. Blood pressure checks and diabetes and cholesterol screening will be conducted.

Life membership award

CARDINAL ­ Harold Magee received a life membership award from Cardinal Branch 105 of the Royal Canadian Legion. With 30 years continuous service in the Legion, Magee joins the exclusive club along with life members Bernard Patrick and Ray Hall.

Business association excited about prospects

CARDINAL ­ Members of the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association are pleased with the business prospects in Cardinal.

The group has been promoting the village and available businesses by a Web site designed by association members. As part of its campaign since the closure of the village's only grocery store, the association has been courting the services of another store to replace it.

April

Purchase offers made on Cardinal properties

CARDINAL ­ Offers to purchase have been made on two of the village's most historic businesses.

According to Royal LePage Real Estate, offers were made on the Islander Hotel and VanCamp's Freshmart. No further details could be released. Members of the business association are excited about the possibilities.

De-amalgamation is on the agenda

SPENCERVILLE ­ A possible fall referendum on the de-amalgamation of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal might be in the cards. Mayor Dave Dobbie revealed he had sent a letter to Premier Ernie Eves requesting the right to hold a referendum on the possibility of the de-amalgamation of the township.

The mayor said he agrees with resident Pat Grant, who feels amalgamation was forced and services have not been improved, costs have not decreased and taxes have not been lowered. A petition initiated by Grant in support of a de-amalgamation vote is picking up steam in the township.

Peggy Taylor running for township mayor

SPENCERVILLE ­ Councillor Peggy Taylor is the first entrant for mayor in Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal municipal election race.

The Cardinal native is hoping to use her experience as a councillor, newspaper reporter and law clerk to her advantage in her bid for mayor.

Veteran councillor seeking re-election

SPENCERVILLE ­ Bill Sloan has announced his intention to run for re-election in Ward 2. The veteran councillor and life-long resident of the area indicated his experience with all of the committees of council is one of his strengths.

May

Former Cardinal councillor enters election

SPENCERVILLE ­ Charlie Burrell has joined the race for council in Ward 1. The Cardinal native is the current president of the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association has about 20 years experience in municipal politics.

Ministry says no to de-amalgamation

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has sent an official response to a request to put de-amalgamation on the ballot: no.

Township activist Pat Grant was unimpressed with the letter, and vowed to continue fighting for what she says is the fair and just thing to do.

Township adopts budget

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.

Resident 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 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.

June

Cardinal public library to relocate to former hall

SPENCERVILLE ­ Council has approved a resolution to move the Cardinal Public Library in the former Cardinal municipal building. The move from its current location on Lewis Street was recommended by the administration committee.

The Ontario Provincial Police will retain its office in the municipal building.

Village hosts district firefighter convention

CARDINAL ­ The Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Fire Department Station 2 hosted the 91st annual Eastern Ontario Firefighters Association convention.

Strength and speed were put to the test as teams from Iroquois, Beckwith, Edwardsburgh, Carleton Place, Mississippi Mills, Augusta, Kemptville and Athens participated in the field day races and an evening parade through the village. Other events included a roast beef dinner, concert and dance.

July

Residents oppose water meter installation

CARDINAL ­ The Cardinal Ratepayers and Tenants Association is encouraging the pubic to continue to voice its displeasure over plans by the township to install water meters in the village.

Council agreed last month to proceed with water meters. The project was put to tender and three bids were received.

Angry residents are considering various courses of action, including refusing to give access to the installer and writing to government officials. Frustrated residents have been attending public meetings looking for answers.

De-amalgamation poll concept rejected

SPENCERVILLE ­ The request from resident Pat Grant to circulate an opinion poll regarding de-amalgamation was voted down at a committee meeting.

Deputy Mayor Marie Thomson indicated she saw no need to pursue the matter further as long as the current government was in office and has communicated its position to the township.

August

Islander Hotel reopens under new name

CARDINAL ­ The long wait for the former Islander Hotel to reopen has ended as it is has been transformed into the Cardinal Landmark Inn under new ownership.

The historic hotel and dining lounge, which had sat dormant since its purchase by Todd and Krista Gill in Sept. 2001, was purchased in early June.

The new owners, Glen and Ann Tanguay of Ottawa, have been renovating the building and have created new menus.

Local farm advocate receives award

ALGONQUIN ­ Long-time Cardinal farmer Gordon Dodge is this year's recipient of the Eastern Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association Award of Merit, presented during Grenville Farm Family Day in Algonquin.

The Kemptville Agricultural School graduate devoted countless hours during the past 40 years to the benefit of Holstein breeders and dairy farmers at home and abroad.

September

New officer commands local Sea Cadets

CARDINAL ­ The Cardinal Sea Cadets have a new commanding officer at the helm.

Lt. Roger Bourdeau was introduced as the new CO at the group's change of command ceremony. He replaces Lt. Robert Lepage.

More entrants in election

SPENCERVILLE ­ Two more entrants have come forward to contest councillor seats in the November municipal election.

Deputy Mayor Marie Thomson and Councillor Frank Noccey have announced their intentions to run as Ward 3 councillors.

Library expenses high

CARDINAL ­ The cost of the public library relocation project has been tagged at $61,000 - higher than the $50,000 originally anticipated by council.

Township council accepted the bid by local contractor K.E. Bush Construction for the renovation of the former municipal hall to accommodate the library.

Dobbie seeks re-election

SPENCERVILLE ­ Dave Dobbie has officially thrown his name into the ring for another term as mayor. He is the former reeve of the former Township of Edwardsburgh.

He is also the current warden of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.

October

Grocery store checks in

CARDINAL ­ Local shoppers now have a store at home with the opening of O'Carroll's Grocery Ltd.

Bill and Dorothy La Berge, formerly of Montreal, opened the non-franchised grocery retail store at the site of the former VanCamp Freshmart. The store is a full-service facility offering fresh meat and produce, daily baked goods, dry, canned and frozen food and special event platter service.

The La Berges were encouraged by the prospects and potential in the village.

Election race heats up

SPENCERVILLE ­ Long-time Cardinal resident Hugh Cameron has filed his papers to run for councillor in Ward 1. He brings a keen interest in politics and business experience to the council table.

Sharan Mathieu, president of the Cardinal Ratepayers and Tenants Association and a strong voice on township concerns, will run in Ward 2.

November

Taylor defeats Dobbie

SPENCERVILLE ­ The winds of change blew through Edwardsburgh/Cardinal in the Nov. 10 election as Ward 1 Councillor Peggy Taylor defeated incumbent Mayor Dave Dobbie by 46 votes. Despite heavy support for Dobbie in the northern half of the township, Taylor grabbed the votes in Cardinal.

Taylor will be joined at the council table by two new faces: political newcomer Hugh Cameron and former Cardinal councillor Charlie Burrell took the two Ward 1 seats. They beat Dick Willis for the spots.

In Ward 2, incumbent councillors Bill Sloan and Peter Martin held on for another term, defeating Sharan Mathieu. Sloan was elected deputy mayor at the inaugural meeting of council Dec. 1.

Councillors Marie Thomson and Frank Noccey were acclaimed in Ward 3.

Water meters scrapped

SPENCERVILLE ­ The tenders for the purchase and installation of water meters in Cardinal have been thrown out. The public works environmental services committee voted to reject all tenders submitted and recommended the municipality not proceed with the project.

December

Public library move is right on track

CARDINAL ­ Preparations to move the Cardinal Public Library continue. Work on the library's future home at the former Cardinal municipal hall has started with the installation of a steel beam to replace a wall to be removed.

A larger space in the upstairs area will be created.

Disruptions to regular library service are expected to be kept to a minimum. Completion is scheduled for year-end; the move will likely occur in the new year.

Procedural bylaw passed by inaugural council

SPENCERVILLE ­ Among Peggy Taylor's first acts as new mayor of the township was to pass a procedural bylaw calling for changes to the committee-of-whole process.

The meetings will now take place during off-council weeks and alternate between the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre in Johnstown and a location in Cardinal.

A question period at the end of council meetings generally reserved for the media will be opened up for questions from the audience.

2003

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

---

January

Fire Dogs and Boltz start year on high note

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville novice Fire Dogs and Lightning Boltz started the year on the right note winning a combined four novice hockey tournaments.

The Fire Dogs won the Dec. 23 Brockville tournament, the Dec. 27 Osgoode Rideau tournament and Jan. 5 North Leeds tournament, while the Lightning Boltz won the Dec. 28 Almonte/
Pakenham tournament.

Senior Giants win OT scorcher over GCC

MAITLAND - The South Grenville Giants senior boys basketball team scored a dramatic 60-59 overtime win over rivals Grenville Christian College Jan. 9 in Maitland.

GCC's Eric Perrin nailed a three-pointer at the buzzer to send the game into overtime, but South Grenville's defence led by Dustin Drury held off the Lions for the win.

Atom Bs ousted in Silver Stick semi-finals

SARNIA - The South Grenville atom B Rangers had a strong performance advancing to the semi-final of the International Silver Stick Tournament Jan. 19 in Sarnia.

The Rangers dropped a 3-2 overtime decision to the Lambeth Lancers to be eliminated from the tournament.

Prescott rink wins Ottawa Valley Mixed Bonspiel

OTTAWA - A Prescott rink was victorious in the 64-team Ottawa Valley Curling Bonspiel.

The team of Dan Cook (skip), Laura Payne (vice), Ian Bridger (second) and Julie Bridger (lead) went through the event with an undefeated record of 6-0 to bring home the Lord Elgin trophy.

February

Boltz do not allow a goal in tournament

LEITRIM - The South Grenville novice Lightning Bolts captured the Leitrim Novice Tournament B Grand Championship Feb. 1.

The Boltz posted a 5-0 record to go through the tournament, but also didn't allow a single goal as Nathan Peters recorded five shutouts.

SGDHS Giants win host basketball tourney

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior boys basketball team continued its hot streak Feb. 8 by capturing the fourth annual Giants Invitational.

The Giants defeated Sharbot Lake 65-44 in the final, with Jamie Clarke leading all scorers with 18 points.

Jr. B Rangers eliminated from playoffs

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers were eliminated from the playoff race Feb. 16 as the Athens Aeros scored in the final seconds to hand the Giants a 4-3 defeat.

Athens' Chris McCann scored with 17 seconds left to put the game on ice and give the Aeros the final playoff spot in the Rideau Division.

Giants crowned LGSSAA champions

BROCKVILLE - The underdog South Grenville Giants senior boys basketball team managed to use a late rally to pull out a 63-56 win over the BCI Red Rams Feb. 21 in Brockville.

In the final minute of the game South Grenville's Jamie Clarke sank a pair of free throws to ice the win, while a packed BCI gym chanted for him to choke.

March

Prescott rink brings home silver from Canada Winter Games

BATHURST, NB - The Prescott-based Ontario bantam girls rink captured a silver medal at the Canada Winter Game in Bathurst, New Brunswick.

The rink of skip Laura Payne, vice Laura Mann, second Candace Johnston and lead Ryrie Briscoe went through the round-robin undefeated before dropping the gold medal game to Quebec.

Prescott Skating club celebrates great season

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Figure Skating Club hosted its annual year-end show March 8 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

The program included numbers involving movies, songs and television shows by the students, as well as one of Canada's top figure skaters, Ben Ferreira, showing up to perform in the feature.

EFSC and CFSC clubs combine for show

SPENCERVILLE - The Edwardsburgh Figure Skating Club presented its annual year-end ice show March 15 at the Spencerville arena.

More than 40 skaters from the Cardinal Figure Skating Club joined the EFSC for their production of "Come to the Fair."

Local team victorious at Cardinal tournament

CARDINAL - The Rideau-St. Lawrence minor midget Kings came away with the championship of the Cardinal AA/AAA minor midget tournament March 23 at the Cardinal arena.

The Kings scored a 7-2 win over Richmond Hill in the final to take home the title, much to the delight of the Cardinal crowd.

In Prescott, the York Simcoe Express captured the title with a 3-0 win over the Central Ontario Wolves in the 31st annual South Grenville Minor Hockey Association's Major Midget Tournament

April

RSL atoms capture Niagara Falls tourney

NIAGARA FALLS - The Rideau-St. Lawrence atom Kings ended their year on a high note as they captured the consolation final at the Niagara Falls tournament.

The Kings scored a 3-0 win over Guelph in the final to take home the honour.

Giants come up big in badminton meet

KEMPTVILLE - The South Grenville Giants badminton team got off to a good start to the season with three gold medals at the North Grenville Invitational.

Andrew Fortier and Peter Veltkamp won the men's doubles, Dustin Drury and Lisa Weststrate won the mixed doubles and Eric Delorme beat teammate Luke Meppelder in the men's singles.

Large crowds as PGC opens for season

PRESCOTT - More than 100 people took to the links April 12 as Prescott Golf Club opened for the season.

Opening the club was a last-minute decision because of the string of poor weather which pushed back the club's opening.

Jr. B Rangers search for new head coach

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers have begun their search for a new head coach for the 2003-04 season.

Doug Lawrence stepped down from the Rangers April 21 after the team fell five points short of a playoff run.

Blazers basketball team wins bronze at Eastern Ontario championship

PRESCOTT - The regional Brockville Blazers juvenile girls basketball team won a bronze medal at the Eastern Ontario championships in Prescott.

South Grenville's Cristy Latham, Erin Heibein and Shannon Campbell all played key roles in the Blazers' bronze medal showing.

May

Giants throwers lead to strong finish at GCC

MAITLAND - The South Grenville Giants had a strong showing at the GCC Upper School Classic Track and Field meet May 1 in Maitland.

Shane Pettifer led the way for the Giants with first-place finishes in the junior boys discus and junior boys shot put competitions. Pettifer also managed a sixth place finish in the junior boys javelin.

Jr. B Rangers hand out year-end awards

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers handed out their year-end awards at Penalty Shotz Sports Bar in Cardinal.

The goaltending tandem of Devin Payne and Spencer Utman, who shared duties throughout the season, were named co-MVP. Graduating players Tyler Libby and Ryan Lawless were given appreciation awards for their dedication.

Aces return to action after more than 25 years

DOMVILLE - The Domville Aces senior men's fastball team returned to action for the first time since the early 1970s.

The team was resurrected by Charlie Murray and Jeff June in order to give themselves a chance to play fastball alongside their sons Scott Murray and Derek June.

South Grenville repeats in LGSSAA rugby

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants boys rugby team repeated at Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association champions.

The Giants won the crown after defeating St. Mary 12-8 in a muddy final May 24 at Calbrock Field in Brockville.

June

Pettifer off to Ontario finals in shot put

PRESCOTT - South Grenville thrower Shane Pettifer became the only Giant to qualify for the Ontario Federation of Secondary School Athetic Associations championship.

Pettifer gained the berth after winning the junior boys discus competition at the Eastern Ontario championships at Terry Fox Athletic Centre in Ottawa. He also finished sixth in the junior boys shot put falling less than a metre off a second OFSSAA berth.

Local teen qualifies for Cisco Jr. Golf tour

OTTAWA - Prescott Golf Club junior player Ben Glynn has qualified for the 2003 Cisco Systems Junior Challenge Tour.

Glynn won the 10-14 year old division of the Junior Challenge Qualifyer in Ottawa after shooting a 77.

Local residents named to Sports Hall of Fame

BROCKVILLE - A pair of South Grenville residents were among those recognized at the 2003 Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame.

Mary DeBruyn of Charleville and Ed St. Louis of Cardinal were among the five hall inductees for 2003.

Algonquin dedicates ball diamond to Fox

ALGONQUIN - Family and friends gathered in Algonquin June 19 to be part of a triblute
to Lawrence A. Fox, who was instrumental in the building of the baseball diamond in the village.

The re-naming of the field
to Lawrence A. Fox Memorial Park was felt to be the most fitting tribute to a man who spent numerous years organizing and working to build a ball diamond in Algonquin.

July

Lavery wins in Adult & Child Golf tourney

PRESCOTT - More than 50 teams competed in the Prescott Golf Club's annual Adult and Child golf tournament.

Kyle Lavery was the winner of the Tobin Trophy for the low net score on the day with a 71 after winning a tiebreaker over Hunter McCarroll.

Jr. B Rangers name Simmons new coach

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers have named their new coach for the 2003-04 season.

The club announced Rod Simmons of Ogdensburg, New York will fill the void created earlier in the year by Doug Lawrence.

Pre-links camp provides golf experience for tykes

PRESCOTT - In the first program of its kind in the area, the Prescott Golf Club has reached out to youth with the Pre-Links Golf Camp.

The new four-week camp is set for children between the ages of four and seven and is geared towards getting the youngsters interested in golf early and being able to find a common pastime with their parents.

Area pair ready for provincial championships

BROCKVILLE - A pair of South Grenville ball players on the Brockville Legion Majors All-Stars little league team are tasting the ultimate thrill of competition as their team is hosting the Provincial Little League Championships in Brockville.

Justin Sutherland of Algonquin and Payton Williams of Prescott have been key members of the team; Williams plays second base and Sutherland is the left fielder.

Sr. A hockey to call Prescott home

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team will be making its home in Prescott this fall.

Team manager Greg Simpson indicated the Falcons will play its 15 home games at the Leo Boivin Community Centre; players from all around the area invited to tryout for the team.

August

Coerver soccer camp giving international experience

MAITLAND - International coaching was the big draw at Coerver Coaching Canada East's second annual residential soccer camp at Grenville Christian College.

This year, the camp has Fulham F.C.'s goalkeeper coach Les Cleevely in to help run the week-long goalkeepers academy. Cleevley runs an academy in London, England and is considered one of the best keepers coaches in the world.

Prescott Pirates sweep way into finals

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Pirates are set to battle for the Upper Canada Minor Boys Baseball Division title this week after completing a two game sweep of Morrisburg in the semi-final.

The Pirates finished the regular season undefeated with a 16-0-1 record.

GFGC invests in new kayaks for youth

MAYNARD - The Grenville Fish and Game Club has a new program under way to provide the youth with a kayaking experience.

The club's new Grenville Paddlers program will provide access to kayaking sessions free of charge, as long as it is booked in advance.

Familiar faces win club championships

PRESCOTT - Six-time Prescott Golf Club men's champion Phil Patterson managed to keep his preferred parking space after shooting a combined two-day score of 139.

Dale Duncan is the ladies club champion after shooting a two-day score of 168.

September

Sr. A Falcons hire coaching staff

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team has named its coaching staff for its inagural season this fall.

Rick McNair, who was an assistant coach with the Winchester Hawks Jr. B hockey club last year, will be the team's coach, with Winchester head coach Dave Corkery assuming the role of assistant coach.

SGMHA starts tryouts

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association is finalizing the last-minute details in order to start training camps later this month.

The SGMHA pointed out one of the major changes to hockey this season will be body contact at the atom B level and above, while atom B house league teams will play non-contact.

Loyalist TaeKwon-Do hands out three black belts

PRESCOTT - Three members of the Loyalist TaeKwon-Do School Inc. received their black belts at a ceremony Sept. 8 at St. John's Anglican Church in Prescott.

Brandon Gobeil, 16, Brooke Gobeil, 10, and Rebecca Gill, 14, each earned first-degree black belts after completing a two-day test.

Jr. B Rangers start season in first place

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers started their 2003-04 hockey season with a pair of wins to open the season in top spot in the Rideau-St. Lawrence Jr. B Hockey League.

The Ranger scored a 6-5 victory over Westport and a 5-4 decision over Athens.

October

Giants football teams drop openers

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants junior boys football team dropped its season opener to the TISS Pirates 32-13 in Prescott.

The senior football team travelled to Brockville, where it dropped a 28-0 decision to the BCI Red Rams.

Falcons soar in season opener

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team found its wings by scoring a 5-4 win over the Cobourg Lynx Oct. 4 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

Jamie Dorey (son of ex-NHLer Jim Dorey) took the spotlight as he netted a hat trick to lead the Falcons.

Senior girls score pair of blowout wins

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team scored a apir of blowout victories over Athens and Grenville Chrisitan College.

The Giants scored a 77-8 win over Grenville Christian College and a 50-13 win over Athens.

RSL major atoms win Tournament of Kings

PRESCOTT - The Rideau-St. Lawrence major atom Kings went undefeated through its host Tournament of Kings in Prescott en route to a championship.

The Kings scored a 7-3 win in the final game over the Gloucester Rangers to clinch the championship.

Pair of medals for local martial artist

GATINEAU - Robert Sutton of Prescott captured a gold medal for patterns and a bronze medal for sparring at the 20th annual Canadian-North American TaeKwon-Do Championship Oct. 18 in Gatineau.

Sutton is a member of the Loyalist TaeKwon-Do Club in Prescott and competed with martial artists from across North America.

November

Falcons spoil Braves' undefeated record

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team scored a 10-5 win over the Tamworth Braves Nov. 1 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

The loss was Tamworth's first of the season. Jamie Dorey led the Falcons with four goals.

Giants teams win LGSSAA volleyball

PRESCOTT - Both the junior and senior boys volleyball teams captured gold at the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association championships Nov. 5 in Prescott.

The seniors scored 25-23 and 25-10 wins over the St. Mary Crusaders for the crown, while the juniors scored 25-12 and 25-22 wins over the North Grenville Knights.

Giants Jr. Girls basketball team falls short in LGSSAA final

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants junior girls basketball team fell just short of a Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association championship after being defeated by St. Mary.

The Giants got on a hot streak late, but got into some foul trouble late to drop the game 36-29.

Novice Ice Hounds take part in Ottawa Senators exhibition

KANATA - The South Grenville novice Ice Hounds hockey team travelled to the Corel Centre Nov. 20 to take part in the Future Senators Program.

The Ice Hounds got a chance to play an exhibition game at the Corel Centre, as well as meet Chris Neil of the Ottawa Senators and take in the Senators-Hurricanes game.

December

RSL Kings fall in Stoney Creek final

STONEY CREEK - The Rideau-St. Lawrence minor peewee Kings advanced to the final of the Stoney Creek tournament Nov. 16 before dropping a 6-3 decision in the final to the Kanata Blazers.

Falcons put bite on Bulldogs

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team returned home after nearly one month on the road to score a 6-1 win over the Deseronto Bulldogs. With the win, the Falcons improved its record to 5-6 on the year.

SGDHS basketball player snags American scholarship

PRESCOTT - A South Grenville District High School athlete will be heading to Illinois in the new year.

Ashley Weir has accepted a basketball scholarship to Danville Area Community College; the scholarship is valued at more than $30,000 U.S. Weir will also play baseball at the school.

Atom house #2 still undefeated

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville atom B Rangers house team #2 is still undefeated in league play after scoring a 7-2 win over Brockville #3 and tying 1-1 with South Grenville #1.

The Rangers sit with a record of 11-0-2 on the season.

Local little leaguers to play in provincials

BROCKVILLE - A pair of South Grenville ball players on the Brockville Legion Majors All-Stars little league team are tasting the ultimate thrill of competition as their team is hosting the Provincial Little League Championships in Brockville.

Justin Sutherland of Algonquin and Payton Williams of Prescott have been key members of
the team; Williams plays second base and Sutherland is the left fielder.

Sr. A hockey to call Prescott arena home

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team will be making its home in Prescott this fall.

Team manager Greg Simpson indicated the Falcons will play its 15 home games at the Leo Boivin Community Centre; players from all around the area invited to tryout for the team.

August

Coerver soccer camp giving international experience to kids

MAITLAND - International coaching was the big draw at Coerver Coaching Canada East's second annual residential soccer camp at Grenville Christian College.

This year, the camp has Fulham F.C.'s goalkeeper coach Les Cleevely in to help run the week-long goalkeepers academy. Cleevley runs an academy in London, England and is considered one of the best keepers coaches in the world.

Prescott Pirates sweep way into baseball finals

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Pirates are set to battle for the Upper Canada Minor Boys Baseball Division title this week after completing a two game sweep of Morrisburg in the semi-final.

The Pirates finished the regular season undefeated with a 16-0-1 record.

GFGC invests in new kayaks for youth

MAYNARD - The Grenville Fish and Game Club has a new program under way to provide youth with a kayaking experience.

The club's new Grenville Paddlers program will provide access to kayaking sessions free of charge, as long as it is booked in advance.

Familiar faces win at PGC championships

PRESCOTT - Six-time Prescott Golf Club men's champion Phil Patterson managed to keep his preferred parking space after shooting a combined two-day score of 139.

Dale Duncan is the ladies club champion after shooting a two-day score of 168.

September

Sr. A Falcons hire first ever coaching staff

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team has named its coaching staff for its inaugural season this fall.

Rick McNair, who was an assistant coach with the Winchester Hawks Jr. B hockey club last year, will be the team's coach, with Winchester head coach Dave Corkery assuming the role of assistant coach.

SGMHA starts tryouts

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association is finalizing the last-minute details in order to start training camps later this month.

The SGMHA pointed out one of the major changes to hockey this season will be body contact at the atom B level and above, while atom B house league teams will play non-contact.

Loyalist TaeKwon-Do hands out black belts

PRESCOTT - Three members of the Loyalist TaeKwon-Do School Inc. received their black belts at a ceremony Sept. 8 at St. John's Anglican Church in Prescott.

Brandon Gobeil, 16, Brooke Gobeil, 10, and Rebecca Gill, 14, each earned first-degree black belts after completing a two-day test.

Jr. B Rangers start new season in first place

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers started their 2003-04 hockey season with a pair of wins to open the season in top spot in the Rideau-St. Lawrence Jr. B Hockey League.

The Rangers scored a 6-5 victory over Westport and a 5-4 decision over Athens.

October

Giants football teams drop season openers

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants junior boys football team dropped its season opener to the TISS Pirates 32-13 in Prescott.

The senior football team travelled to Brockville, where it dropped a 28-0 decision to the BCI Red Rams.

Falcons soar in season opening win over Lynx

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team found its wings by scoring a 5-4 win over the Cobourg Lynx Oct. 4 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

Jamie Dorey (son of ex-NHLer Jim Dorey) took the spotlight as he netted a hat trick to lead the Falcons.

Senior girls hoops score pair of blowout wins

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team scored a pair of blowout victories over Athens and Grenville Christian College.

The Giants scored a 77-8 win over Grenville Christian College and a 50-13 win over Athens.

RSL major atoms win Tournament of Kings

PRESCOTT - The Rideau-St. Lawrence major atom Kings went undefeated through its host Tournament of Kings in Prescott en route to a championship.

The Kings scored a 7-3 win in the final game over the Gloucester Rangers to clinch the championship.

Local martial artist captures pair of medals

GATINEAU - Robert Sutton of Prescott captured a gold medal for patterns and a bronze medal for sparring at the 20th annual Canadian-North American TaeKwon-Do Championship Oct. 18 in Gatineau.

Sutton is a member of the Loyalist TaeKwon-Do Club in Prescott and competed with martial artists from across North America.

November

Falcons spoil Braves' undefeated record

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team scored a 10-5 win over the Tamworth Braves Nov. 1 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

The loss was Tamworth's first of the season. Jamie Dorey led the Falcons with four goals.

Giants teams win LGSSAA volleyball

PRESCOTT - Both the junior and senior boys volleyball teams captured gold at the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association championships Nov. 5 in Prescott.

The seniors scored 25-23 and 25-10 wins over the St. Mary Crusaders for the crown, while the juniors scored 25-12 and 25-22 wins over the North Grenville Knights.

Giants Jr. girls hoops falls short at LGSSAA

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants junior girls basketball team fell just short of a Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association championship after being defeated by St. Mary.

The Giants got on a hot streak late, but got into some foul trouble late to drop the game 36-29.

Ice Hounds take part in Senators exhibition

KANATA - The South Grenville novice Ice Hounds hockey team travelled to the Corel Centre Nov. 20 to take part in the Future Senators Program.

The Ice Hounds got a chance to play an exhibition game at the Corel Centre, as well as meet Chris Neil of the Ottawa Senators and take in the Senators-Hurricanes game.

December

RSL Kings fall in Stoney Creek tourney final

STONEY CREEK - The Rideau-St. Lawrence minor peewee Kings advanced to the final of the Stoney Creek tournament Nov. 16 before dropping a 6-3 decision in the final to the Kanata Blazers.

Sr. A Falcons put bite on Deseronto Bulldogs

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team returned home after nearly
one month on the road to score
a 6-1 win over the Deseronto Bulldogs. With the win, the Falcons improved their record to 5-6 on the year.

SGDHS athlete snags U.S. scholarship

PRESCOTT - A South Grenville District High School athlete will be heading to Illinois in the new year.

Ashley Weir has accepted a basketball scholarship to Danville Area Community College; the scholarship is valued at more than $30,000 U.S. Weir will also have the opportunity to play baseball at the school, with a roster spot held for her if she decides to play.

Atom house #2 still undefeated on season

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville atom B Rangers house team #2 is still undefeated in league play after scoring a 7-2 win over Brockville #3 and tying 1-1 with South Grenville #1.

The Rangers sit with a record of 11-0-2 on the season.

Jr. B Rangers look to continue strong play this weekend

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers are preparing to resume inter-league play this weekend when they take on the Amherstview Jets Saturday at 7:15 pm at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

The Rangers will then travel to Verona Sunday to take on the North Frontenac Flyers at 3:15 pm.

The Rangers have been playing strong hockey again as of late scoring an 11-1 win over the Winchester Hawks on Dec. 18 and dropping a hard-fought 6-5 decision to the Alexandria Glens on Dec. 27.

South Grenville is 14-13-2-1 for 31 points on the season.

Falcons look for another win over Belleville McFarlands

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team is hoping for another strong showing against the Belleville McFarlands this Saturday, Jan. 3.

The Falcons managed to score its first win over Belleville on Dec. 27 with a 7-4 win over the McFarlands.

Terry Gilmer scored his second consecutive win in goal since joining the Falcons with a strong showing to stop numerous Belleville scoring attempts.

St. Lawrence will look to continue its strong play when it takes on Belleville Saturday at 8 pm at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

SGMHA hockey tournaments to resume this weekend

SOUTH GRENVILLE - The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association is preparing for a busy month of January with four tournaments in the region.

This Saturday, the atom B house league team will be hosting a tournament beginning at 8 am in Cardinal, while the bantam B house league Rangers will host a tournament Jan. 10 at the Spencerville arena starting at 9 am.

On Jan. 18, the peewee C house league Rangers will host a tournament at 8 am at the Spencerville arena.

On Jan. 31, the major midget house league Rangers will host a tournament at 8 am in Cardinal.

All content is copyright 2003 The Prescott Journal. No reproduction permitted without written permission.