|
VOL. 174, NO. 12~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ March 24, 2004 | |
| NEWS | |
User-pay system in worksAmount, timing of water and sewer rate increases still to be determinedBy Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor PRESCOTT Water and sewer rates could be on the rise in a big way later this year. Town council began its formal budget deliberations for 2004 Monday night. The public works budget, which includes transportation, environment and planning, was presented by Town Engineer Clyde Solomon. Big changes are in the works as a result of provincial regulations which require water and sewer customers to pay the full cost of those services instead of having those costs subsidized through the municipal tax base. Solomon told council those changes would have "far-reaching and serious financial implications" for the town. Prescott council paid a consultant to produce a water and sewer business plan last year. The town has yet to formally adopt the plan, but Solomon used it as a base on which new rates and the budget could be set. According to Solomon, water rates would have to increase from the current residential flat rate of $10.60 per month plus 45 cents per cubic metre to a flat rate of $16.60 and 72 cents per cubic metre. To meet required revenue levels, sewer rates would have to go from the monthly flat rate of $15.14 plus 22 cents per cubic metre to $28.00 plus 80 cents per cubic metre. The monthly rate for garden taps would increase from $3 to $10. New water and sewer rates would cover operating costs as well as reserves needed to maintain and eventually replace existing infrastructure, including water and sewage treatment plants. For revenues to equal projected expenses, an additional $562,000 would be needed for water and $743,000 for sewer accounts. There are also significant costs associated with items on "must do" lists submitted by Ontario Clean Water Agency, which operates municipal water and sewer facilities for the municipality. "If you have plants, they don't last forever," Solomon commented. "You're going to have these costs." Corporate services and finance committee chair, Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead, said Solomon's report gives council "lots to think about;" it will be up to council to decide how the town will handle rate increases. Measures which promote water conservation should be viewed as a good thing, according to Beckstead. Solomon is also recommending the price of paper and plastic garbage bags be increased by 25 cents each. If approved, the new prices would be $1.50 for plastic and $2 for paper. Bag prices were last increased two years ago. Solomon noted tipping fees and collection and transport costs, as well as the cost of replacing the bags, have been increasing each year. The extra 25 cents per bag could generate an additional $20,000 for the town, which receives about $110,000 per year in garbage bag sales. This would cover the town's anticipated costs associated with waste management. In noting waste volumes have decreased significantly since the municipality began charging residents for garbage bags, Solomon described the system as a success story. Council will review Solomon's proposals as part of its overall budget deliberations. The new rates would likely go into effect at the beginning of July. However, town officials acknowledged rate increases would not result in an equivalent level of property tax reductions. Proposed police and library budgets were presented to council last night. Other municipal departments are expected to follow suit next Monday and Tuesday nights. Hockey scores big in tournament townsSOUTH GRENVILLE Two teams from the London area came out on top at this year's major and minor midget hockey tournaments held this past weekend in Prescott and Cardinal. Teams from Ontario and the United States took part in the annual events. The London Junior Knights defeated the Richmond Hill Stars to win the A title in Prescott Sunday. On the B side, the Cambridge Hawks won the Dr. Peters trophy by defeating the Don Mills Flyers. In Cardinal, the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs took home the Cardinal Lions trophy by winning the A final over the Buffalo Oilers. The Todd Gill trophy went to the Cumberland Barons, who beat Rideau-St. Lawrence to capture the B title. The annual tournaments are presented by the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association. Tom Elliott, co-chair of the Prescott organizing committee, estimated the two events could raise $15,000 for the association and help offset registration fees for local players. See Pages 8-11 for extended coverage of the two local tournaments. THIS WEEKCommunity supper to be served tonightPRESCOTT The Master's Hands community dinner will take place tonight (Wednesday, March 24) from 5 to 6:15 pm at Seaway Christian Church, 349 Churchill Road at Massie Drive. The free supper will include baked chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, vegetables, salad, dessert and beverage. A vegetarian alternative is also being planned, according to Pastor Barry Edmondson. This is the second monthly dinner for the less fortunate that is being offered by Seaway Christian. Cancer campaign starts with breakfastPRESCOTT Everyone is welcome to support the annual Canadian Cancer Society campaign and Daffodil Days kick-off breakfast, set for tomorrow, Thursday, March 25. The breakfast at the Bridgeview Restaurant in Johnstown runs from 7:30 to 8:30 am. Guest speaker is VON Nurse Practitioner Elizabeth Baker. Tickets are available at the door. Daffodil sales begin next Thursday, April 1 in Prescott at O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer, Giant Tiger and at the Royal Bank, as well as in Cardinal at various locations. The annual Daffodil Tea will take place Saturday, April 3 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm at St. Paul's United Church, corner of Dibble and George streets in Prescott. Volunteers from the society's CAPE (Cardinal, Augusta, Prescott and Edwardsburgh) branch will be canvassing door-to-door throughout the month of April. Funds raised go towards cancer research, health promotion and support services. Almost $6,900 was raised locally from last year's campaign. Make quite a splash at Spencerville partySPENCERVILLE Take a walk in the sand at the second annual Spencerville Beach Party this Saturday, March 27 from 8 pm to 1 am at the Drummond Building. The Spencerville Agricultural Society is hosting the party to raise money to help organize the 149th Spencerville Fair to be held in September. Entertainment will be provided by The Reasons and Runnin' on Empty; the music will include country/rock, dance and songs from the '50s through the '80s. Prizes will be awarded, including one for best dressed. Beach gear is encouraged. Tickets are available at Spencerville Home Hardware, Village Pantry, Drummond's Gas or by calling 925-2150 or 498-0694. Police meeting set for tonightCourt turns down attempt to appeal earlier ruling that enables town to proceed with disbandment proposalBy Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor PRESCOTT The future of policing in Prescott is the subject of a special information meeting being held tonight (Wednesday) at the Legion Hall on Henry Street. The two-hour meeting, which begins at 7 pm, was called by town council. At issue is whether the municipality will proceed with a proposal to disband the Prescott Police Service and enter into a five-year contract with the Ontario Provincial Police. From a legal standpoint, the town has been given the green light to proceed with its proposal. A request to appeal a 2003 Ontario divisional court ruling that allows disbandment to proceed was denied by an appeals court last week. The Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services (OCCOPS) and the association representing Prescott officers had been seeking leave to appeal the divisional court decision that ruled against a 2001 decision by an OCCOPS panel to decline approval of the disbandment proposal. OCCOPS had indicated in its decision it would reconsider the proposal if certain conditions were met within a short period. Ron Manes, the lawyer who represented OCCOPS at the 2003 judicial review held in Toronto, told The Journal Friday there are no further legal options the commission can pursue now that the appeals court has made its determination. "The matter is done," Manes said. As the legal process dragged on, Prescott council asked for revised cost estimates associated with both options. Those updates were presented earlier this year. Tonight's public meeting will give the public a chance to ask questions of council and to provide input into whether the town should proceed with disbandment or retain the municipal police department. Individuals will have up to two minutes to speak at the meeting. Although council is hosting the public session, it remains unclear when or if the policing issue will be put to a vote at council. The previous council voted in favour of the OPP option in Jan. 2001. Prescott resident John Hnatchuk has done his own homework on the two policing options. Hnatchuk said he was "sitting on the fence" when he started his review. After studying everything from costs and services available to response times, as well as speaking with current and former officers and council members in other communities that have dealt with the same issues, Hnatchuk concluded the OPP option would be more effective and economical. Although he acknowledged disbandment would be a loss to the community, Hnatchuk said the town would benefit in the long run. The revised OPP proposal would cost in the range of $1.2-1.3 million; the OPP offers two options, the more expensive of which includes a community sergeant. Prescott would be designated a separate patrol area; the OPP would be based at the existing detachment office on Edward Street just south of Highway 401. If disbandment proceeds, about seven civilian staff (mostly dispatchers) and one Prescott officer would lose their jobs. It is expected Prescott dispatch (including fire and some public works and utility services) would be contracted out; the OPP would use its own communications system. Chamber of Commerce delays name change voteRIVERVIEW HEIGHTS The name Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce will not be changed at least for the time being. The Chamber's board of directors has opted to postpone a vote on renaming the business organization the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce. Directors had been prepared to debate and vote on the issue at their monthly meeting Thursday at the Rothesay Restaurant. However, the meeting ran long and the board decided to wait until the start of the April lunch meeting to deal with the Chamber name change proposal. An alternative name Prescott South Grenville Chamber of Commerce has been suggested as a compromise. Any change approved by the board would be subject to the approval of a subsequent vote open to all Chamber of Commerce members it was noted last week. Chamber President Keeley Mouré noted Thursday the name issue is a passionate one. Advocates of the change say using the name South Grenville could give the Chamber more clout and be a draw for potential members from the townships. Man injured in three-car collisionPRESCOTT An Ontario Provincial Police cruiser was involved in a three-vehicle collision Sunday morning that left a Prescott-area man with serious injuries. The crash occurred on Edward Street near Victor Road at about 11:45 am, the Prescott Police Service reports. A Toyota Camry driven by Yan Chen, 34, of Montreal was southbound in the left lane when it entered the right lane and was struck by the cruiser, which was driven by a female officer. The first vehicle entered the Petro-Canada lot and struck a GMC pick-up truck and its driver, Gary Stevens, 61, who was standing beside the truck parked near the gas pumps. Stevens was transported by ambulance to Brockville General Hospital; his injuries were not life-threatening, according to police. The unnamed officer was treated and released. Chen was charged with the Highway Traffic Act offence of making an improper lane change. The road was snow-covered and slippery at the time of the crash. The cruiser sustained moderate damage, and damage to the other two vehicles was described as light. The police car did not have its emergency lights on and was not responding to a call when the collision occurred. Constable Jon Pergunas is investigating. Kriska wins safety awardPRESCOTT Kriska Transportation - an employer of 400 people in the trucking industry with its head office in Prescott - has earned a national safety award two years running. President Mark Seymour announced last week the Truckload Carriers Association's National Fleet Safety program awarded Kriska first place in the 25 to 49.99 million miles division for 2003. The award recognizes Kriska as one of the safest truck fleets in North America, Seymour stated. The company was presented with the award at a ceremony held March 16 in Waikoloa, Hawaii at the Truckload Carriers Association annual meeting. The association recognizes fleet safety in the truckload industry based on a company's overall safety record, organization, employee driver/independent contractor selection procedures, training, supervision, accident investigation and efforts to exceed state and federal requirements. Kriska placed second in its division in 2002. Shooting range expansion plans draw fire from neighboursBy Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer MAYNARD Augusta council plans further research into a proposed expansion of the Grenville Fish and Game Club (GFGC) that area residents say poses health risks and will negatively affect the enjoyment of their properties. Jack Goodenough, a resident of MacIntosh Road near where it intersects North Campbell Road where the club is located, presented to council at a special meeting Monday night residents' concerns regarding the possible expansion project. Increased noise and health and safety hazards top Goodenough's list of concerns if the expansion is allowed on additional property the club has purchased on North Campbell Road. "We are going to be damaged; it's as simple as that," Goodenough said. Nearby residents frequently lose use of their yards because of the club's shooting competitions and practice and sighting sessions, Goodenough said. Water contamination and airborne lead dust are very real concerns as a result of firing. More than 4,000 rounds of ammunition can be fired during a weekend competition, Goodenough said he was told by a club member. A single shot from a 30-30 Winchester contains 8.1 grams of lead that could potentially contaminate about 370 cubic feet of soil, or the equivalent of 56 bathtubs filled with dirt, Goodenough informed council. He further explained the lead from one 22-calibre rifle - about 2.6 grams - could contaminate one day's worth of drinking water for approximately 160,000 people. There is also the health hazard of airborne lead dust being transported by wind, as well as the risk of being hit by stray discharges and clay skeet. Devaluation of properties is also a great concern to homeowners, he said, adding wandering children could pose an emergency situation. Expansion plans include a 300-yard rifle range on the east side of North Campbell Road, he added. "Council should consider the health, safety and economic impact such a site would have on an area," he said. Goodenough stressed the neighbours are not against hunters and are in favour of the proper training, handling and use of firearms the club provides. "You do a bang-up job in training and eduction," he said. However, GFGC membership has grown beyond what the existing area can accommodate, and should be located where there is no negative impact on homes and neighbours. Henry Walasek, who has lived on MacIntosh Road for more than 20 years, said in the past three years, the noise from the club has increased ten-fold and has become "deafening." It is impossible to enjoy his backyard in summer, he added. Another resident noted his wife works nights, and is frequently woken from her sleep during the day by noise generated at the club. While several GFGC members were present at the meeting, no public statements were made. Member Randy Ferguson later said the club would present its side of the expansion story at an upcoming council meeting in April. Council delayed discussion of the project until it hears the club's presentation. Bell grant will improve access to services at Prescott libraryBy Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer PRESCOTT People who are hearing or sight impaired or who face other learning challenges will be gaining increased access to computers and technology at the Prescott Public Library. The library received a grant of $28,500 from Bell Canada's 2003 Community Development Fund last week to establish an e-learning project. It was one of 19 successful organizations selected from a field of 132 applicants from across Ontario to receive the Bell grant. Funding will be used to implement advanced software that will increase accessibility for hard of hearing, visually impaired and developmentally delayed patrons. Chief Librarian Jane McGuire explained the specialized equipment will "talk" to computer users who can't read or see. The equipment is also voice activated for those who are not able to type. "It will allow us to reach everyone in our community, regardless of their literacy level or special needs," McGuire said. Approximately $7,500 of the grant will be used to hire a consultant to research and implement the software; the remainder will be used to purchase the equipment and software. The initiative is to be known as "E-learning for Prescott: Community Capacity Building Through Telecommunication." A second stage of the project involves partnering with the four Prescott elementary schools and the high school on literacy programs and to acquire compatible word processing programs. McGuire noted students often work on a project on school computers, save it on a disc, and then bring it to the library for completion or printing. Only one of the library's six public-access computers can open certain programs, she said. With the new system students won't have delays in completing assignments or they won't have to redo their work just to print it. Long term, the library hopes to extend the literacy program to include all South Grenville schools. The third stage of the initiative involves partnering with business to offer teleconferencing and presentation facilities. "It can be a win/win situation for everybody," McGuire said. All library patrons will be able "keep up with the technology just the same as anybody else." The project is a real coup for a small-town library, McGuire noted, adding some larger libraries in urban centres may have the advanced technology. "But us little guys don't. It takes technology to the next level." The new software is expected to be in place by the end of the year. The Bell Canada program is a three-year, $1 million commitment to innovative community-based projects throughout Ontario to improve the economic and social framework of the communities through upgraded communications technology. Chamber approves Shakespeare donationRIVERVIEW HEIGHTS Directors of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce have agreed to donate $2,000 to the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival. The festival, which will stage its second season this July and August at the amphitheatre, had asked the chamber for a donation of $4,000. However, directors voted Thursday to give $2,000 now and consider an additional $2,000 in June. Speaking on behalf of the Chamber's finance committee, which recommended a donation of $2,000, director Bill Pakeman said everyone on the committee wants to support the Shakespeare festival in the long term. However, he added the Chamber must be fiscally responsible to itself and other projects that might seek financial support. The committee did not feel comfortable doubling the support given to the festival last year, according to Pakeman. Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn was one of the directors who spoke in favour of a $4,000 donation. Lawn noted last year's festival attracted many people to Prescott for the first time. He said the event is the best economic development opportunity the town has had in a decade. The mayor also pointed out the results of a survey of Chamber members indicate making Shakespeare a priority in terms of where the Chamber could be allocating its resources is "...leading the way by a country mile." The Chamber, which almost went broke less than four years ago, now has assets of $30,000 or more and operates at a profit. Chamber Director Graham Cudlipp described the festival as "the greatest thing" in this area; the larger donation would show others the local business community is behind the project. "I think it's more symbolic than anything," Cudlipp said. But director Garry Dewar said the board should follow the advice of the finance committee and approve the donation of $2,000. "This is what we can afford to give," Dewar remarked. A compromise to accept the committee's recommendation and consider an additional $2,000 later this spring was proposed by director Heather Lawless and received the support of most board members. Lots of fond memories as Spencerville Legion turns 40By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer SPENCERVILLE - Five of the founding members were on hand as the Spencerville Legion celebrated its 40th anniversary Saturday in Spencerville. More than 50 people showed up for the celebration, which featured a social hour, dinner and dancing. The Legion recognized its 40-year members in attendance: Stanley Hall, Steve Cucman, Herb McGrath, Jim Irving and John Anstead as well as Sam Seguin, who was made an honourary member for his help with the construction of the current branch. Herb McGrath spoke on behalf of the charter members and outlined how the Spencerville Legion got started. McGrath told of how in late 1962 and early 1963, Bill Hooper and Jackson Perry decided there were enough veterans in the Spencerville area to justify the formation of its own Legion. After getting help to file the application from the Legion members Jim O'Brien from Cardinal and Norm McQueen of Prescott, the veterans held their first few meetings in Spencerville town hall. The charter was approved March 20, 1964; there were 26 members. In 1966, the Legion began work on its new home as it purchased the old Canadian Pacific Railway station for $200 and moved it piece by piece to its current location, using the two stone pillars to build the stone fireplace in the downstairs lounge. The building opened in 1967 which was celebrated 22 years later in 1989 with a large parade which included the famous RCMP Musical Ride and a fly past by the Snow Birds. For McGrath, the Legion is a fond part of his memory. "I was so honoured to be asked to speak on behalf of the charter members," said McGrath. "It certainly has changed over the years. It brings back a lot of memories coming back here. I'm not an active member, but when I do come back it's great to come in and see all the old members and socialize with everyone." McGrath figures that the construction of the Legion was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. "I really don't think this would ever happen again, since it only really cost us $12,000 to rebuild it and we had to still put in the wiring, plumbing and heating. Our honourary members were a plumber, electrician and a man who owned a tractor with a front-end loader on it. We wouldn't be able to do it so cheap and I don't think we would have been able to get the kind of volunteer labour we did." Royal Canadian Legion Vice President of Provincial Command, George O'Dair, gave the keynote address speaking of all the hard work put in by the founding members. "It really shows the dedication of the Legion and the veterans in particular. They did it because they believe in comradery, dedication and fellowship." Chairman of the anniversary celebration, John Pickard, was thrilled with the way the evening went. "Being part of this was special," said Pickard. "I've been helping to plan this since last October and there was a lot we had to do and a lot of people we had to get hold of, especially the charter members. It took a bit of time, but I'm glad we were able to get the charter members here since it added a little colour to the night." Hansel and Gretel coming to townPRESCOTT The famous story of a brother, sister and child-eating witch will be told as the finale to the Fort Town Concert Association's 2003/2004 season. Hansel and Gretel will be presented Thursday, April 1 at 8 pm at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, corner of Centre and Dibble streets. The classic tale will be performed by the Atelier lyrique de l'Opéra de Montréal, a group that enables young Canadian singers to receive professional operatic training while acquiring solid practical experience. The Prescott visit is part of a 20-stop tour of Eastern Canada. Hansel and Gretel is one of the most popular operas in the repertoire of companies around the world. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Special ticket prices are in effect for students between 12 and 18. Tickets for the 2004/2005 are also available; purchase one now and admission to the April 1 concert is included. Next Thursday's presentation is being sponsored by Mayfield Retirement Residence and Wiser Hall Historic Seniors Residence. The Fort Town association presents the annual Desjardins concert series in conjunction with Jeunesses Musicales of Canada, an organization that helps bring professional Canadian musicians to audiences of all ages. GCC to host graduation show this weekendMAITLAND Grenville Christian College (GCC) will host a graduation fashion show and fair Sunday, March 28 from 2 to 5 pm. Everything from prom dresses and tuxedos to hair stylists will be showcased at the event. Girls can try on and purchase dresses, set up appointments and come up with ideas for graduation day. For ticket information or more details on the show at GCC, contact event co-ordinator Alanda Maliskas at 345-5523 ext. 365 or at almaliskas@ grenvillecc.ca. Edwardsburgh woman injured in home invasionEDWARDSBURGH An elderly woman was injured during what Grenville County OPP describe as a home invasion and robbery that took place early Saturday night. Police were called to an Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Township residence. An OPP news release indicates the woman, the lone occupant in the home, was assaulted by a masked intruder. She was taken to Kemptville District Hospital and treated for head injuries. An amount of cash was taken from the residence. OPP K-9, technical identifications services and the crime unit are assisting with the investigation. As of Tuesday morning, police had not disclosed the road on which the residence is located. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Mark Zulinski at the detachment in Prescott (925-4221) or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. OPP BRIEFSSnowmobile taken from trailerSOUTH AUGUSTA A snowmobile was stolen from a trailer in the back yard of a Bethel Road residence. The 2000 Arctic Cat 1000 Pantera was taken sometime between noon March 14 and March 18. Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact Constable Butcher at Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Phone calls lead to traffic stop, arrestEDWARDSBURGH After several calls to report erratic driving had been received March 16, Constable Runciman followed a vehicle on Highway 416 for about 500 metres before that vehicle pulled over. The constable spoke briefly to the driver, who then pulled away and drove about 100 metres before the officer stopped him. A 75-year-old Edwardsburgh man was charged with impaired during and exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit. Tossed eggs break house windowsAUGUSTA A case of mischief is being investigated by Sergeant Onlock. Two windows at a house on County Road 26 were broken when approximately five eggs were thrown at it. The homeowner was there at the time but did not see how the culprit or culprits got away. Anyone with information is asked to contact Grenville County OPP in Prescott. | |
| |
| EDITORIALS | |
QUOTE OF THE WEEK"They see all the kids here helping out and that's just awesome."Spencer 'Spike' Birnie, commenting on the local hockey players involved in the major midget tournament held last weekend in Prescott Editor's NotebookTIME FOR CLOSING ARGUMENTS: For those who feel strongly about retaining the Prescott Police Service, it appears there is not much time left to stop disbandment. Now that a Toronto court has turned down a request to appeal an earlier ruling, the town has been given the green light to proceed with a municipal contract with the Ontario Provincial Police. It has become evident the only thing standing in the way of the switch is the possibility Prescott council will reverse the position taken by the previous council. With court intervention becoming less of a possibility, tonight's meeting at the Legion could be the last chance for supporters of the municipal department to have a meaningful say in the matter. Keep in mind, though, that there are also those who do not oppose the OPP option and still more whose silence and ambivalence show they do not seem interested one way or the other. It is obvious at least two members of council are not prepared at this time to support the switch to OPP, but four votes would be needed to carry a vote when and if council is asked to reiterate the town's plan to disband the Prescott Police Service or to scrap the proposed change. Public sentiment will play a role in the decision-making process, but sentimentality is unlikely to be the overriding factor when council members review the options. We encourage residents of Prescott to come forward, find out more about the options facing the town and let the elected officials know your views on the subject. The bottom line, though, is the feel-good option might not carry the day when compared to the reality of policing in small-town Ontario. LET THE PROMISES BEGIN: Now that the new federal Conservative Party has chosen its first elected leader, Stephen Harper, many Canadians can now decide whether it is a viable alternative to the Liberals. This Reform-Alliance-PC combination may still have its challenges trying to make headway in most of Eastern Canada, it is becoming evident the Tories are poised to have a strong showing out west and in portions of this province (including Leeds-Grenville). Whether the election takes place later this spring or not, it appears the race will be much closer than many political pundits were predicting when the new Tory party was formed late last year. With that in mind, we welcome the opportunity for Joe Jordan, Gord Brown and the other candidates in Leeds-Grenville to tell us what they could do for the Prescott area. Values and principles aside, the Fort Town and its neighbouring townships have economic and social needs which must be addressed. There is no better time than the present for the people of South Grenville to start asking what's in it for them. Tim Ruhnke Old Prescott TownWhere dancing maple leaves whisper in the breeze When at home I ponder, my thoughts to Prescott wander Prescott Town, dear Prescott Town Let me dream of days of old Any time is right to give your heart delight, If seeking old time lore just wander up the shore Prescott Town, dear Prescott Town, Before my living journey ends. Fond steps are bound to roam to Colonel Jessup's home, The deeds of old enthrall us and heroes seem to call us, Prescott Town, dear Prescott Town, Let fond memories make a shrine by Sterling L. Spicer Theft suspected in connection with 1964 Legion hall blazeFROM THE ARCHIVESMarch 23, 1944 * March 28 has been proclaimed a school holiday in Edwardsburgh Township so the buildings may be used as distributing centres for the issuing of No. 4 Ration Books. Teachers are to be free to assist. March 25, 1964 * Prescott police are investigating the possibility of theft in connection with the fire that gutted the lower floor of the Royal Canadian Legion on Henry Street West. Chief Tom Conaway speculated the fire may have been started accidentally by a prowler using matches to move about in the building. A door leading into the bar had been tampered with, and a considerable sum of money from Saturday's business was missing. The fire did its worst in the men's beverage room. March 23, 1994 * Newspaper editor and publisher, author, soldier, musician and a man deeply devoted to his adopted community, John Alfred "Jack" Morris, died March 19 at Mayfield Retirement Centre, where he had resided for the past two years. He was 84. Mr. Morris was editor and publisher of The Prescott Journal, retiring in 1977 following a 51-year newspaper career that started in 1926 when he joined the staff of The Chesterville Record as an apprentice. He became editor at The Journal in 1947. He continued writing his popular Below the Fort Hill column until 1991. In 1975, Mr. Morris was the recipient of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award for his years of dedication to his craft, his church and community. Absence of Layton left big hole in CBC convention coverageFORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. MorrisLike millions - or maybe hundreds of thousands - er, like probably thousands - of Canadians who watched the CBC coverage of the Conservative Party of Canada's leadership convention in Toronto last Friday night and Saturday afternoon, we were disappointed. Our disappointment was not because Belinda Stronach didn't win the party leadership, nor that Peter MacKay showed party faithful once again that he has the credentials to be a Liberal cabinet minister from Quebec. Our disappointment was that not once in this political CBC broadcast did the anchorman or a reporter interview NDP leader Jack Layton as to how he thought the convention was progressing. Layton, it seems, gets more CBC airtime than the other two main party leaders combined, and we thought it just natural that the CBC would have its political, sartorial equivalent to Don Cherry ensconced in a suite in the Air Canada Centre. From there it would be easy for the CBC to just flip a switch and the nation would get Jack Latex expounding on the Conservative's lack of social programs, their lack of policy on the Iraq war, their lack of action in the House of Commons on the Liberal patronage squabbles in Quebec, and most important of all, their plans to retire Elsie Wayne's gamey sweater. It was explained to us that since becoming the NDP leader, Beau Jack now demands double time for appearances as a political analyst on the CBC on weekends above his negotiated 20-hour week. He will slow down, he says, if he is elected to the House of Commons in the forthcoming election, but deep down hopes he does not get elected because he enjoys the joys of leadership without the responsibility of being an MP. ***** The election of Stephen Harper as leader of the Conservatives puts internal pressure on Prime Minister Paul Martin to call an election, possibly early in June. The Conservatives are not ready for an election at this time and would much prefer a call to the polls in September. This would give them a chance to dig deeper into the Quebec sponsorship scandals and further embarrass the Liberal Party. Martin's proactive approach to the scandals has succeeded in cooling it down considerably, but the main reason for this has been the absence of Conservative and NDP leadership in House of Commons' debates on the subject, and the ineffectiveness of the House of Commons' committee of inquiry in questioning former cabinet ministers, chairmen of crown corporations and high level, politically-connected bureaucrats. These are all supporters of deposed PM Jean Chretien and they are going to stonewall long enough to steer guilt away from Chretien. An election call this June would mean the disbandonment of the Commons committee of inquiry and the early adjournment of the House would mean the lack of a platform for Conservative leader Stephen Harper from which to launch questions. The media across Canada, which has been reduced to TV and a chain of mediocre daily newspapers, has already lost its appetite, and its ability to keep the sponsorship scandal on the front burner. It is best for Martin to call an election as soon as possible, before the Conservatives realize they have a leader who seems already to have pulled the party together, especially in Ontario, traditional Liberal feeding grounds. ***** We have heard arguments for and against the renaming of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce to the South Grenville Chamber of Commerce, and really we see no reason at this time to make such a change. What we do want to see, however, is that if there is a change in name, and therefore in aims and objectives, the entire membership be informed of what is happening and why it is happening. Instead of such a name change through a directors' monthly luncheon meeting with less than 30 minutes of debate, the Chamber executive should publish the articles in its bylaws covering a name and geographical change, and circulate this to every member, allowing them more than the presently suggested 30 days in which to make up their minds. This is a decision that the entire Chamber membership has to make, not just the board of directors which represents only about 10 per cent of the membership. We agree with those who want the Chamber of Commerce to be representative of a larger area than just Prescott. In fact, its present name of Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce takes in the same area as South Grenville would, especially among those who would be interested in joining. Augusta Township has very few potential members, other than those who already belong, and although the Chamber endorses a few members from Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, through their political amalgamation three years ago, they have made the decision to go their separate ways. The only way we can see any benefit from a name change would be for a political amalgamation to take place first. This initiative must come from Prescott and Augusta, and then from Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. Whatever we do, however, let's do it properly and with a chance for fair input from all members, not just a few directors. SCHOOL SCENEBoundary Street Public School: Madelle Becker's class are the pioneers of the Peacekeeping program at Boundary Street Public School. They have been providing guided activities and supervising a sports cart on the primary yard at lunch recess. Keep up the good work! Our junior team of teachers has planned an evening workshop on how to help your child at home with school. This is scheduled for Wednesday, March 31 at 6:30 pm. More information will be sent home. Our students will be able to participate in the Multiple Sclerosis Read-a-thon in April. A representative of the MS Society of Canada will be visiting our school Wednesday, March 31 to conduct an assembly about Multiple Sclerosis, disability awareness and the importance of recreational reading. More information will be sent home with students. Hot lunch this week is hot dogs. St. Joseph Catholic School: Everyone is back from March Break well rested and ready to make this third term count! Congratulations to our two Good Samaritans this week: Charlie Hansen and Nathaniel Benish. Judges from Invista spent Monday, March 22 viewing the intermediate science fair projects and listening to our young scientists as they explained their findings. Our Lenten Celebration of the Eucharist will take place Wednesday, March 24 at 11 am. On Monday, March 29 and Tuesday, March 30, the Grenville Land Stewardship Council will bring their Trees for Peace Planting program to St. Joe's. Students will learn ways to improve fish and wildlife habitats in our area and the importance of trees to the environment and to our quality of life. We will welcome Chris Bellemore to St. Joe's. There will be a Scholastic Book Fair at St. Joseph Wednesday, March 31 and Thursday, April 1 from 9:30 am to 4 pm and Friday April 2 from 9:30 am to noon. Students will find Scholastic's spring collection hard to resist. Parents, grandparents and friends are also invited to visit the fair. Sandra Kingston and our library crew made this book fair possible. LETTERS TO THE EDITORTournament experience was second to noneThe Editor; On behalf of the managers, players and myself, I want to extend my thanks to the amazing hospitality my players received this past weekend. The experience was second to none, and we wish to return next year. The level of hockey was the best the kids saw this year, plus seeing the community participation this past weekend eludes how tournaments should be done. Most importantly, my players witnessed hockey the Canadian way! Spencer "Spike" Birnie Attempt at profiteering will hurt local businessesThe Editor; I would first like to start by congratulating the many fine teams and athletes that participated in this weekend's successful hockey tournament. Good Job. Prescott has continued to host an excellent weekend of sport drawing teams from all corners of the province and from as far away as Georgia and California. Many thanks to the organizers and workers at the arena this weekend; your hard work paid off. During this weekend our many visitors bring a great deal of spin-off business to Prescott and surrounding areas through their purchase of merchandise, meals, lodgings etc. I am sure that I am not the only person who noticed that for some surprising reason this weekend gas prices at our fine Prescott stations took a peculiar jump compared to our neighboring communities. In Prescott on Saturday, gas was being sold for 79.7 cents on average, while only 15 minutes away in Brockville the same grade of gas indeed probably delivered by the same tanker cost only 72.4 cents. I would like to ask fellow readers if they are aware of any reason gas should be 7.3 cents more expensive to deliver to Prescott then Brockville. On a hunch, I went to McDonald's and Burger King on Edward Street and was relieved to find that a burger cost the same as it did last weekend. I find it hard to believe all of our gas wholesalers ordered this increase in Prescott and not Brockville. It is clearly an attempt at profiteering that will only hurt our local businesses. While most local consumers, myself included, are now conditioned by experience to purchase our fuel in advance of long weekends and events such as the minor hockey tournament, visitors are not so fortunate. It is a pity that we must exploit a wonderful event to make a few extra cents. Kevin Badmueller Editor's note: Many communities in the region experienced similar situations during the March Break. Gas prices in Prescott were lowered Monday. Love of skating comes naturally for Maitland girlMAITLAND NEWS by Jane FullartonA passion for skating and a lot of hard work have paid off for Jennifer Pettem as she has earned all her gold dance levels. The Grade 5 student at Maitland Public School has achieved something few skaters attain at any age, but what is truly remarkable is that Jennifer is ten years old. Jennifer capped her year off at the Prescott Figure Skating Club by winning the Susan Kirkby Award, which is presented to the skater who completes the most levels in one year. Jennifer has won this award three years in a row. She also performed a solo at the club's year end ice show. Pettem is the daughter of figure skating coaches Cathy and Will Pettem, so her love of the sport comes naturally, but it is her work ethic that is remarkable for such a young skater. As well as taking ice dance lessons, she also takes free skating and will continue to compete in the Eastern Ontario Sectional Competition held in November. Jennifer routinely spends between six and eight hours a week on the ice and is always anxious to go to the rink. Pettem hopes to continue skating competitively and to become a coach. Cathy Pettem says Jennifer has had a very solid year on the ice and there is still lots more she can accomplish. Roast beef dinner Saturday at Friendship HallPRESCOTT Roast beef will be on the menu this Saturday, March 27 at Friendship Hall on Henry Street West. Dinner will be served at 5 and 6:15 pm. Take-out and delivery are available. Advance tickets are encouraged. Call 925-4784. | |
| CARDINAL NEWS | |
Council puts halt to engine brakesBy David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer SPENCERVILLE - Township council agreed March 15 to ask the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the Ministry of Transportation for signs asking transports not to use their engine brakes in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. Council approved an action item to request the signs after it was noted by Ward Two Councillor Peter Martin at the March 9 special meeting of council at the Port of Prescott that a sign was posted in Maitland asking that engine brakes (jake brakes) not be used. Mayor Peggy Taylor noted the township had received multiple complaints about the noise caused from the use of engine breaks in the township. "At our first committee-of-the-whole meeting in Johnstown there was a delegation about the sounds they made on the bridge and the 416," said Taylor. "Also, during our first three years (after amalgamation) there were complaints from County Road 21." Council will request signs be placed along County Road 2 near Johnstown and Cardinal and on Highway 16 just south of 416. Ward One Councillor Charlie Burrell indicated he had heard the noises recently. "On Sunday, I was listening to them between Nine Mile (Shanly Road) and the causeway," said Burrell. "I don't think they were even going ten miles an hour and they were making a racket." Highland games to commemorate D-DayBy David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer SPENCERVILLE - Plans are in the works for a highland games to be held June 19 at the Spencerville Fair Grounds. A group of local residents met Monday night at the township hall in Spencerville to make early plans to run the event. Kelly Bush, who is spearheading the plans indicated the event is seeking Legions from around the area to take an active role in what they hope will become an annual festival. "Pipe bands and Legions tend to go hand-in-hand," explained Bush. "We have already dubbed it the Veterans Memorial Highland Games with Highway 416 right next door. We're hoping that we can get different Legions involved for a colour party for the big mass bands which will also work as a commemoration of the 60th anniversary of D-Day." Bush went on to further describe the event as working at having a pipe band competition, a heavyweights competition (which will include such events as the caber toss), a highland dancing competition, fiddling and step dancing competition and a tug of war with various fire departments from along Highway 416 and surrounding areas taking part. "There are really a lot of Scots in the area, and we think this would be something that would benefit the whole community," said Bush. "It's been talked about for a lot of years and we figured why couldn't we have one here." Graeme Ogilvie of the Pipers and Pipeband Society of Ontario's (PPBSO) Ottawa branch was on hand to lend his support to the project, noting an event like this was something the region could really use. "Back in the '70s there was one in Ottawa which was very successful," explained Ogilvie, "but after its organizer left it only lasted a couple of years. There really aren't a lot of highland games for pipers in Eastern Ontario or Quebec to go to locally, since most of the competitions are in Southwestern Ontario. This would be at the beginning of the season when everyone really wants to get out and play, so this has the potential to be something quite big." Though still in the early planning stages, the games committee is trying to get everything going within a very short time frame and has already begun trying to contact area groups and service organizations for help with putting on the games. The committee will also look to area businesses for support. The committee will be holding its next meeting Tuesday, April 6 at 7:30 pm at the township hall in Spencerville. Anyone wishing to volunteer at the festival is asked to attend the next meeting or contact Kelly or Ed Bush at 657-1117. MPAC will discuss individual property tax assessments
| |
 | |
| SPORTS | |
Prescott major midget AA/AAA hockey tournament
London Jr. Knights shoot for the Stars with win over Richmond Hill in finalBy David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer PRESCOTT - The Knights reigned supreme at the 32nd annual major midget AA/AAA tournament in Prescott by capturing the title after a strong 6-1 victory over the Richmond Hill Stars in the championship game Saturday night. "It was a strong finish to our year," explained London Jr. Knights coach Chuck Dufton. "This was our sixth tournament of the year and our third win. We've been here before, so we knew how big the tournament is and we really appreciate how the community treated us and opened up their homes to us." The game was a tight-checking affair, which turned chippy as the game progressed. Richmond Hill took an early 1-0 lead to the game with a shot from the point, but London managed to bounce right back with a pair of unanswered goals to end the first period with a 2-1 lead. After a hard-fought second period which saw a Stars goal disallowed because of the net being off its pegs, the Knights came to life again with a four-goal third period to defeat Richmond Hill. For the kids who got a chance to play in the final, the memory is one they won't soon forget. "It's just a really great tournament," said Knights captain Kent Lucien. "The fans, the billets and all the great people have kept coming back all weekend and supporting all the teams. "Besides winning, The Row and all the kids coming up and asking for autographs has to be my favourite part. It really shows how much the kids love the game here and how many dedicated people there are here to put on this tournament." Even after their defeat in the finals, the Richmond Hill team was thrilled with their experience and the added bonus of being awarded the critic's choice award from The Row. "I really enjoyed myself," explained Stars defenceman Darryl Burkart. "It's our second season coming to the area and the fans and kids are just great. With the way they treat the players here, showing support and giving us so many gifts it really shows that they care a lot about the players who come here. It's one of the best tournaments I've ever been to and probably the most memorable." In the consolation final, the Clarington Toros continued their strong offensive play to score a 4-1 win over the Calgary Rangers. The Toros, who started the tournament with eight - players before a few more showed up; battled through the ranks to rack up a lot of points and win the award as the tournament's most gentlemanly team. In the Dr. Peters championship, the Cambridge Hawks scored a 5-2 win over the Don Mills Flyers, while the Mississauga Senators captured the Dr. Peters consolation title with a 4-0 win over Yorba Linda in a brawl filled game, which had to be called with five minutes left in the game. Players, coaches and fans were thrilled with how the weekend went and were quick to pass along credit to the tournament committee and the town for being great hosts. Wayne Yandon, the father of Richmond Hill player Steve Yandon, was quick to praise the organizers for putting on a great weekend. "We've been to a lot of tournaments and this is as good as any," said Yandon. "The organizers really do an amazing job and it's even more impressive for such a small community. "We were at the Cardinal tournament last year and it was a consensus the guys wanted to come back. It was a good weekend last year and another one this year. We were finalists last year in Cardinal, finalists this year in Prescott, maybe the third year will be the charm for us to win it." Tournament committee co-chair Tom Elliott considered the weekend a success for all involved. "Even with 14 teams, we were happy with how everything went," said Elliott. "We're going to try to get 16 next year. It was a tough year with teams disbanded for the season and the american teams having regional championships this week and March break, but a special thank you really has to go out to not only the whole committee, the SGMHA and the volunteers, but to Tracy Swan who has spent countless hours working to try and get teams right up until late Tuesday night." Elliott was quick to put into perspective what the committee felt the tournament was all about. "It's about the kids," said Elliott. "With all the awards, trophies and prizes we give out, it's a great thing for the kids (taking part) to get and its a great thing for the kids of South Grenville to be part of it and enjoy it." Elliott indicated by his early estimation the Prescott and Cardinal tournaments combined will once again raise $15,000 to helep offset the rising costs of registration in the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association. Prescott welcomes home SpikeBy David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer PRESCOTT - To his players and in California he's known as Spencer, but they quickly found out the hometown boy goes by "Spike" while back in the Fort Town. Spike Birnie made a triumphant return to the Prescott area over the weekend as a coach at the major midget AA/AAA tournament. Birnie headed up this year's "it" team at the tournament, which caught everyone's eye, travelling all the way from Yorba Linda, California. "It's a long way to come and pretty expensive," Birnie told The Journal, "but everyone is loving it. The players and parents want to come back next year. They are really appreciating the tournament and are excited to watch the other teams, play some strong competition and bring back some fond memories." Birnie indicated that his California boys are loving the little things at the tournament. "They're getting plenty of exposure here and are loving the fans," said Birnie. "They see all the kids here helping out and that's just awesome. This is their first time seeing the Canadian style of hockey, and I really hope it rubs off on them." The young coach indicated his nickname was confusing a few of his players at first. "It was kind of funny," said Birnie. "Guys in the area were talking to them about hockey and they would mention me as 'Spike', but no one knew who they were talking about at first, because they know me as Spencer." On top of getting a chance for some Canadian exposure for his team, Birnie also got a nice perk in getting to return to his hometown. "I got to see my family and friends which was great," said Birnie. "I remember coming to watch all the excitement and it's brought back a lot of memories." The local hockey legend, who played minor pro hockey in California, got involved in coaching while in Yorba Linda and joined up with Steve Chelios (brother of NHL star Chris Chelios) to start the Yorba Linda Blackhawks hockey program. "It's only our second year of operation," explained Birnie. "We're still new and developing the way the Rideau-St. Lawrence Kings program did, but this year we had a midget, bantam and two peewee squads, giving us a good base to build off of. We're trying to get a major and minor midget team for next year so we can come back and compete in Cardinal and Prescott." Rangers show 'never quit' spirit at AA/AAA tournamentBy David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer PRESCOTT - Despite the tough competition faced over the weekend the South Grenville Rangers made a statement with their never-say-die attitude in the AA/AAA major midget tournament in Prescott. South Grenville dropped all three of its tournament games, with a 5-1 loss to local product Spike Birnie's Yorba Linda Blackhawks, an 8-1 loss to the Don Mills Flyers and a hard-fought 3-1 loss to eventual consolation champions the Clarington Toros. Goaltender Peter Bradford played strong throughout the tournament for South Grenville, receiving plenty of applause from the crowd for his quick glovework and flurry of sprawling saves. Coach Bryan Armstrong was pleased with the team and the way its members carried themselves over the weekend, even doing their best to put a smile on the crowds faces with their tribute to The Row. "They put on a really respectable display," said Armstrong. "Everyone worked really hard, but we just found a big difference with the speed and how physical the teams are at this level of play. They showed a lot of character and team effort and it was really a valuable experience for them." Rangers player Jon Baldwin indicated he felt the weekend was a good experience. "It wasn't bad. I just wish we could have done a little better," said Baldwin. "I really wish we would have beat California. With all the stuff going on, it's kind of fun, all the kids asking for autographs kind of makes you feel like a big man and it was fun." Teammate Eric Selleck added, "It was a good tournament, although we should have won our first game (against Clarington), but we just got outplayed in our second. There are some good teams here. This is really for the kids and I've seen a few young lads running around with autograph books and that is kind of cool." Next generation of 'The Row' finding its legs for final floodBy Cortney Willard, Special to The Journal PRESCOTT - Sometimes a handful of people with one common goal can make a difference. The new and old members of "The Row" fit that description to a tee. The Row began 33 years ago when the Jr. B Saints were on the ice. Bob Beattie, Mark Kirkby, Ronnie Bro, Dale Byrd and Dean Kirkby could never have envisioned what The Row was to become and what it would mean for Prescott. Fathers and friends of the players, all of them decided to support their team as one unit, which would become known as The Row. The Row now consists of a mix of fathers and sons, mothers and daughters, but their message is still the same, "We are here to support the Rangers, but we want all of the teams to know that we are there for them too and will cheer and support them as well," said Dino Bologna, member and co-organizer of The Row. "Two years ago, us old guys handed over The Row to the young guys," said Dean Kirkby, referring to Bologna, Jason Saunders, Steve Smith and his nephew Ryan Kirkby. This year The Row sold 50/50 tickets with the winner taking home $1,428. They organized the chuck-a-puck, sold Row pins and put together a final flood that was one of the highlights, as it is every year of the tournament. Bologna had a lot of people to thank for volunteering their time and energy to making this year's tournament fun and memorable for fans and players alike. "We would like to thank Wayne Reid (Brock Limousine), Riverside, Perrin's, Sherri Bro, Mike McCaw, Matt McCaw, Steve Smith, Brenda Byrd, Jeff Byrd, Dean Kirkby, Greg Williams and Carmen Maggio. All of these people and companies donated their time and in some cases their vehicles for the final flood to The Row. We could not have done it without them." Bologna also had one special co-organizer to mention. "I would also like to thank Jason Saunders who drives down from Toronto every year for this tournament; that's the kind of spirit we want to keep." The Row had a few gifts of their own to give out, one of them being a Montreal Canadians colored jersey with "Old Coach" on the back and The Row on the front. This jersey was presented to Ron Baker, better known around the rink as Old Coach for his 37 years of coaching little hockey players on their way up. Speaking for The Row, Bologna stressed just what Baker has meant to this town. "He's coached us, our kids and in some cases our grandchildren, we'd like to thank him for dedicating his life to us and our children." While Bologna feels there is always room for improvement and has stated next year The Row will be even better, Dean Kirkby had something to say to the young Row organizers. "From the old guys to the young guys, you are doing a great job." Cardinal Minor Midget AA/AAA Hockey Tournament
Elgin Middlesex wins A title; RSL makes it close on B sideBy Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor CARDINAL A London-based team was crowned the champion of this year's South Grenville AA/AAA minor midget hockey tournament. It had been hoped a full complement of 16 teams would take part in the sixth annual tournament held at the Cardinal and District Community Centre. However, 12 teams competed in the 2004 event. Those teams were placed in four divisions. Each team would play three round-robin games; the top two teams in each division would then play each other to determine which would compete in the A and B sides. A cross-border rivalry pitted the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs from London against the Buffalo Oilers in the A final. Buffalo defeated the Chiefs earlier in the tournament, but Elgin Middlesex came up big when it really counted and won the final 4-2. Chiefs coach Kevin Callaghan said he had heard good things about the Cardinal tournament prior to arriving last week, and the appearance here lived up to its billing. "It's one of the best events I've participated in as a coach or player... And I'm not just saying that," Callaghan told The Journal. The host South Grenville Rangers lost all three of its round-robin games: 11-1 to Kingston, 3-2 in overtime to Kanata and 9-1 to Rochester. The other local team, the Rideau-St. Lawrence Kings (RSL), won its first two games of the tournament. RSL, which won the A championship last year, defeated Kanata 3-2 Friday morning. Dave McGlade scored twice for the Kings; Corey Larocque added a single. James Kirkwood and Mike Byrd scored in RSL's 2-0 win over Mississauga. However, Rochester defeated the Kings 4-1; Manford Horvath scored RSL's lone goal. The Kings started play Sunday with a convincing 7-0 shutout of Monroe County. Horvath picked up the hat trick. Nathan Murray added a pair for the Kings, with singles going to Byrd and Ryan Landon. The victory gave RSL a berth in the B championship game and a shot at taking home the Todd Gill Trophy. The title game against the Cumberland Barons was a lively back-and-forth game that featured numerous power-play opportunities. Cumberland would score a goal, but RSL would keep coming back with one of its own. The Barons broke a 5-5 tie in the third period, and the Kings were unable to respond before the buzzer sounded. RSL's goal scorers were McGlade, Murray, Landon, Jesse Kriwox and Brandon Durant. One of the best match-ups of the tournament pitted the Buffalo Oilers against the Rochester Americans in the A semi-finals. The game went into overtime and Rochester had numerous scoring chances during the extra period. As the first overtime period was about to end, Buffalo managed to shake off a big blueline bodycheck from one of the Amerks and put the puck into the Rochester net. Dick Marion, manager of the Americans, credited Buffalo goaltender Josh Shamrock for playing a great overtime period. Marion believes the Amerks had an excellent chance at winning it all if one of those scoring chances had been converted. "'If' is the biggest word in the dictionary," he said. Rochester went on to defeat Kingston 7-2 to win the A consolation final. Marion said the team enjoyed its return to the Cardinal tournament and looks forward to what he described as a great event. "We'll be back," he added. Callaghan also gave credit to the tournament committee chaired by Carolyn Mason. The coach also gave high marks to Lucas Stitt and James Halladay, the local youngsters who served as monitors with the Elgin Middlesex team. "They were the best," Callaghan said. "We'll remember both of them." SG coach proud of teamCARDINAL The minor midget tournament was a learning experience for the host team, according to Rangers coach Ryan Hayes. South Grenville opened the tournament Friday morning by taking on the Kingston Predators. Kingston dominated the host team and won 11-1. Josh Joudoin had the Rangers' lone goal; assists went to Braden Dukelow and Mike Leeder. In its second game, South Grenville matched up well against Kanata Friday night. The game ended 2-2 in regulation, but Kanata won in overtime. Matthew Deeks scored both goals for the Rangers, with assists going to Wes Polite, Nathaniel Hayes and Mike Lawrence. "That was just tremendous," coach Hayes told The Journal. The Rangers' third game was against a strong Rochester Americans squad. Rochester was too much for the home team; although Dukelow scored early in the second period to make it 3-1 Rochester, the Amerks replied with six unanswered goals for a 9-1 final. Despite the two lopsided losses in which the Rangers were "somewhat humbled," coach Hayes said he was proud of the team's performance at the tournament. He said it was a learning experience the players should keep in mind as they return to their own playoff run this week. South Grenville's trainer, Ann Marie Polite, was selected to the tournament's all-star team. Everybody has a favourite tournament momentFrom canteen and Easter eggs to autographs, we all enjoy hometown hockeyBy Cortney Willard, Special to The Journal The midget AA/AAA tournaments are new for some, but memorable for all. Every player, coach and fan may have a different favourite part of the tournament, but they all have one. Michael Allan, 12, and Shane Riddell, 8, were in Cardinal for the minor midget tournament for the first time. They travelled down with the Cumberland Barons and help out the team with water bottles, sticks and slugging equipment. "Winning the games is my favourite part of the tournament, but the pro shop in the rink is great too," said Riddell, who hopes to one day play in the annual tournament. "Eating is my favourite part," laughed Allan, pointing to the canteen in the Cardinal arena. John Lawless, 7, of Crystal Rock said his second trip to the tournament was good, but his most memorable part was "meeting Rob Pearson, the coach for Atlanta. I like him because he used to play for the Leafs and he still likes them." Lawless also found the visiting teams to be quite generous with their time and memorabilia. "California gave me Easter eggs and Kitchener gave me a hockey pen." Lawless was also holding a tournament book that was full of autographs from the players, which he says they were happy to give. Father of #17 from Clarington, Harold Jukic, was impressed with the level of organization of the tournament. "This is my first year here. The organizers recognize that this may be some of these kids last year of hockey and they go out of their way to make it special for them. The tournaments in Toronto are all a money grab, but at this tournament the focus is on the kids, where it should be," he stated Jukic mentioned the players in Toronto are lucky to even get a trophy for winning a championship, but he thought Prescott and Cardinal did a great job of recognizing every player's efforts and abilities, with no player going home empty-handed. Jukic also went on to say what many local residents have known for years. "I didn't think this kind of hometown hockey existed anymore." Coach of the Don Mills Flyers, John Bird, also enjoyed his weekend in Prescott. "We really have had a good time here. We were treated well by all of the people here." Bird went on to say his team was here last year in the minor midget tournament in Cardinal and was looking forward to coming back this year as major midgets. EFSC to present Grease at annual skating showSPENCERVILLE - The Edwardsburgh Figure Skating Club (EFSC) is preparing to hit the ice with some greased lightning for its annual ice show this Saturday, March 27. The show will feature the theme from the movie "Grease" and include a variety of group, duo and solo numbers from the more than 50 skaters in the club. The EFSC has been hard at work practising the routines since Feb. 24 and will be ready to show off their skills to the crowd of supporters. EFSC coach Debbie Seary indicated the season has gone well and the kids have really improved. "We have a lot of smaller children," explained Seary. "The kids are in stages one-to-five and are between the ages of three and 12." Seary expects the kids and the crowd to have some fun with the theme. "We've got some greased lightning boys and some beauty school dropouts," said Seary. "It should be quite cute with a lot of younger skaters; they have a tendency to steal the show." This year, the show will feature the pairs team of Nathan Last and Emily Jamieson from the Nepean Figure Skating Club as the special guest performers. This is the first year the duo has been competing together and has passed their pre-novice pairs testing on their way to a first place finish at the Eastern Ontario Sectionals and a fifth place finish at the Canadian Junior Championships. Last, who is from Cardinal, has also skated with the Cardinal, Edwardsburgh, Prescott and Morrisburg figure skating clubs and still skates in some singles competitions. He managed a second place finish at the Eastern Ontario Sectional Championships. The club will have two shows on March 27: a matinee at 1 pm and a 7 pm show. EFSC President Sandra Lawrence said the club is hoping for big crowds for the show to help support the club and its 55 skaters. Tickets to the show can be purchased at the door. PDSA holding late registration session at fire hall SaturdayPRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Soccer Association (PDSA) is holding
a late The session will run from 9 am until noon with a $15 late fee charged to each family who still wishes to sign up. So far the PDSA is on par with last year at this time with 509 kids registered for the season. The league structure has changed with the Under-16 division becoming the Under-17 division and the addition of an Under-14 division to go along with the Under-12, Under-10, Under-8 and Under-6 divisions. PDSA Webmaster and Under-17 convener Mike Latocha indicated more players were required for the new Under-17 division, with 55 players currently registered. Latocha indicated there were currently enough players to field three and a half teams, but organizers were hoping to field a minimum of five teams. There are 81 kids registered in the Under-14 division, 101 registered in Under-12, 100 in Under-10, 84 in Under-8 and 88 in Under-6. Latocha said the PDSA tries to be accommodating to late entries, but it would be beneficial to sign up early. "Last year we had kids signing up until July with kids moving into the area and everything," said Latocha. "We try and accommodate them, but we need to get a good idea of how many people we have in order to do team selection." Latocha also indicated coaches are still needed for all age groups, and a few referees may be required as well. Also among the changes for 2004 is the the league plans to run all games from Monday through Thursday to eliminate weekend games to accommodate the wishes of the parents. For more information on the club or to download an entry form, visit the PDSA Web site at www.leedsandgrenville.com/pdsa. Senior A hockey team done for the season after series lossBELLEVILLE - The St. Lawrence Falcons senior A hockey team is done for the season after dropping a pair of games to the Belleville McFarlands to lose their Eastern Ontario Senior A Hockey League semi-final series 4-1. "I think we were running out of legs and people to boot," explained Falcons President Greg Simpson. "I think everyone would have liked to make it a little further, so it was a little disappointing, but it was a good season." On Sunday, the Falcons travelled to Bellville and dropped an 8-2 decision to the McFarlands. Belleville opened up the scoring a few minutes in, but Chris McCann would score shorthanded to tie the score. Belleville answered back with two more first period goals, until McCann would score his second of the game for the Falcons, with Wayne Garlough picking up a helper. From there the McFarlands didn't look back as they scored three second period goals and two more in the third to cap out the series. In game four, the Falcons fell 5-2 to the McFarlands at Centre '76 in Athens. Garlough and Shawn Hall scored for the Falcons, while Karl Herbison (2), Charlie Froment and Garlough picked up helpers. The McFarlands put the game away in the second period as they scored three unanswered markers. Simpson was quick to credit his coaching staff on the season the team had, but it still has a lot to work on for next season. "We had a core of 12 players who were there each game and practice," said Simpson, "but there was also a number of players who were inconsistent. Hopefully, a lot of the core guys will be back next year and will give us a core to build around. We probably wouldn't have lasted the season without Dave (Corkery) and Rick (McNair). They did a fantastic job." Another issue being addressed for next season is the league schedule, which will see St. Lawrence play in the East Division of the ten-team league with Smiths Falls, Kingston, Deseronto and Tamworth. "We want to stay in Prescott," said Simpson. "The guys really feel that is our home rink. We also want to play our playoffs in Prescott, which we weren't able to do and we really have to apologize to our fans for that. Right now, it's looking like we would move the schedule up and make sure the games stay here. We had a regular crowd, great fan support and sponsorship all season and we want them to be there in the playoffs, too." St. Lawrence speed skating group holding demonstrationsBROCKVILLE - A short-track speed skating open house The St. Lawrence Speed Skating Group, in co-operation with the Ontario Speed Skating Association, is looking at forming a club next season which will take in skaters from the Athens, Brockville, Cardinal, Prescott and Spencerville areas and receive coaching support from the Ottawa area. "We really want to run a small scale operation which can be directed at kids," said group member John Somerville. "The sport has really taken off and is one where everyone seems to just be out having fun and competing against one another. Everyone just seems to get along." Somerville is hoping the open house gains enough interest to start a club in the area having already contacted rinks in Prescott, Cardinal, Spencerville and Brockville as possible homes for the club, but a lot depends on where they can get ice time during key times throughout the week. The event will run from 2:30-5 pm Sunday at the Brockville Memorial Centre and will feature an hour of free public skating from 2:30 until 3:30, when the demonstration put on by the Ontario Speed Skating Association will begin. Somerville also indicated there will be an opportunity for the kids to try the speed skating "long blades" to give the sport a try to decide whether they like it. Any potential skaters wishing to try the speed skates must wear a helmet and gloves. For more information on the open house and demonstration please contact John Somerville at 925-3231. Elliott scores pair of gold and bronzeLONDON - Local speedskater Braeden Elliott made his presence felt as
he scored Elliott had a strong showing breaking Ontario Winter Games records in the 1,000-metre race and the 777-metre race, which were previously held by a member of Elliott's home club the Gloucester Concordes. Elliott also managed to scored a pair of bronze medals at the games, finishing third in the 666-metre race and the 500-metre race. After his strong showing at the Ontario Winter Games, Elliott was also
interviewed by a Elliott now prepares to travel to the North American Short-Track Speed Skating Championships this weekend in Cambridge, Ontario, before participating in the Canadian Championships hosted by Elliott's club April 1-4 in Ottawa. Rangers atom house league #2 advances to championship finalPRESCOTT - The South Grenville Rangers atom house league team #2 managed to defeat South Grenville #1 in the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League semi-finals. On Feb. 27, the Rangers managed a 6-2 win over Brockville #3 to advance to meet South Grenville #1 in the semi-finals. Mike Lawless scored a pair of goals to lead South Grenville #2, while Josh Bailey, Rhys Larry, Gil Pankhurst and Dylan Dorey added singles. Payton Marriner (2), Mike Morrell (2), Larry and Sydney Wehmeyer added assists. On March 3, the Rangers #2 were forced to settle for a 1-1 draw with South Grenville #1 in game one of the semi-final series in Prescott. Marriner scored for South Grenville #2, while Bailey added an assist. In game two, South Grenville #1 managed to score a 2-0 win over South Grenville #2 to take a 3-1 points lead in the first-to-four points series. In game three, South Grenville #2 rebounded for a 3-1 victory over South Grenville #1. Larry, Marriner and Lawless scored for South Grenville #2, while Pankhurst added a helper. In game four, the Rangers #2 managed a 4-1 win over South Grenville #1 to win the semi-final series. Stufko led all scorers with a pair of goals, while Morrell and Wehmeyer added singles for South Grenville #2. Lawless (2), Bailey, Larry and Van Stralen added helpers. South Grenville #2 now advances to the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League finals against Canton, New York. SG atom B Rangers capture west division title and pair of tournament titlesCARDINAL - The South Grenville atom B Rangers made a strong late season showing by winning a pair of tournament titles as well as capturing the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League West Division title. In game one of the West Division final, South Grenville travelled to Cardinal March 13 and defeated the Kingston Township Titans 4-0. Trent Corney led the Rangers with a pair of goals, while Hunter McCarroll and Ian King added singles. Joey Sargeant, Alex Stephenson and Shane Riddell chipped in with helpers. In game two, South Grenville managed a 4-0 win over the Titans in Kingston to capture the West Division title. King and Sargeant each scored a pair of goals for the Rangers, while Sargeant (2) and King (2) added assists. On March 17, the Rangers travelled to Perth and captured the Perth/Lanark Atom B tournament championship. The Rangers now advance to play the North Dundas Demons in the UCMHL final, before travelling to Embrun April 2-4 to take part in the Tournament of Champions. In their opener, the Rangers were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw with the Loyalist Jets. Corney and King scored for South Grenville, while Coleman Colpitts, Shane Riddell and Sargeant chipped in with helpers. In game two, the Rangers managed a 1-0 win over the Athens Aeros. Colpitts scored the game's lone marker, while Corney and Lucas Stitt added assists. The Rangers placed second in pool play and advanced to the A championship against the hometown Perth Wings. South Grenville came on strong and scored a 4-0 victory over the Wings to capture the tournament title. Hunter McCarrol, Stephenson, Corney and Champagne scored for the Rangers, while Robbie Deeks (2), Quinton Selleck, Colpitts, Riddell, Sargeant and King added helpers. On March 19, the Rangers travelled to Kemptville and captured the A title of the Kemptville atom B tournament. In their opener, the Rangers scored a 4-3 win over the North Dundas Demons. Corney and McCarroll each scored a pair of goals for South Grenville in the win. Sargeant, Riddell and Colpitts added assists. In their second game South Grenville scored a 4-3 win over the Kingston City Cougars. Corney led the Rangers with a pair of goals, while McCarroll and Colpitts added singles. Riddell (2), Stephenson and Tim Kippax chipped in with helpers. In the final, the Rangers scored a 6-2 win over the Perth Wings to capture the tournament title. Champagne, Deeks, King, Colpitts, Stephenson and Sargeant scored for South Grenville, while McCarroll (2), Sargeant, Corney, Riddell, King and Champagne added assists. The goaltending duo of Dustin Kester and Jarrett Pitt had a strong showing in both tournaments. The Rangers received the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association travelling team of the year award at the opening ceremonies of the major midget tournament Saturday in Prescott. Other members of the team are Cody Adams, Patrick Froom, affiliates Spencer Lee and Nathan Peters. BARRIE - The Rideau-St. Lawrence (RSL) minor peewee Kings made up for their semi-final playoff loss by winning the Glen Bellerby Memorial Tournament March 12 in Barrie. After defeating the Seaway Valley Rapids in their Ottawa District Minor Hockey League first round playoff match-up, the Kings took the Ottawa Valley Titans to the limit in their semi-final series. The Kings travelled to Pakenham March 9, and stole a 5-4 win over the Titans in game one of the first-to-five-points series. Cody Johnson led the Kings with a pair of goals, while Jayson Harmer, Casey Crooke and Derek Froats added singles. Jordan Moran (2), Shayne Morden, Cameron Armstrong, Dylan Casselman and Josh Pitt chipped in with helpers. In game two March 11, the Kings had to settle for a 2-2 draw in Spencerville. Moran scored both Kings' goals, while Casselman, Crooke and Harmer picked up assists. On March 12, the Kings travelled to Pakenham for game three, once again settling for a 2-2 tie. Casselman and Moran scored for the Kings, with Froats and Mitchell Chartrand adding assists. In game four, the Kings missed an opportunity to win the series as the Titans scored a 3-1 win. Moran scored the lone RSL goal, with Josh Pitt and Ryan Vincent picking up helpers. On March 18, the Titans put an end to the Kings run with a 3-1 win over the Kings in Pakenham. Moran scored the Kings' lone goal. On March 13, the Kings managed to make up for their playoff loss by capturing the Glen Bellerby Memorial Trophy in Barrie. The Kings defeated Sudbury, Richmond Hill, London, Barrie and Stoney Creek on their way to the title, with Moran receiving the tournament's most valuable player award. Other members of the team are Alex O'Neil, Michael Lalande, Tyler Gallinger, Colin Halladay, Cody Johnson, Michael McGahey, coaches Mike Vincent, Ritchie Pitt, Mike Moran and John Halladay and manager Kelly Vincent. RSL minor peewee Kings victorious at Barrie tourneyAtom C Rangers #1 fall in tourney finalKEMPTVILLE - The South Grenville atom C house league Rangers #1 had a strong showing in Kemptville advancing to the 'A' final before being defeated by the host team. On March 14, the Rangers travelled to Kemptville and advanced to the finals of the Panthers' atom house league tournament. In their first game, the Rangers scored a 9-1 win over the Rockland Nats. Jody Sullivan led all scorers with a five-goal performance, while Luke Severson had a hat trick and Kyle Berry added a single. Paul DeJong (3), A.J. Larocque, Mike Dalley and Emily Colwell picked up helpers. The Rangers continued their strong play with a 8-0 win over the Carleton Warriors in the tournament semi-final. Sullivan had a hat trick to lead the Rangers, while Stephen Poaps scored a pair and Dawn Wright, Larocque and Severson added singles. Wright (2), Severson, Billy Myers, Berry and Colwell added assists. In the final, the Rangers fell 5-3 to the Kemptville Panthers. Larocque, Sullivan and Poaps scored for South Grenville, while Dalley, Sullivan and Wright picked up helpers. Brandon Peeler played strong throughout the tournament in goal. On March 5, South Grenville defeated Kemptville Panthers #1 in the first game of the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League West Division semi-final in Kemptville. Phillip Biccum, Larocque, Sullivan and Kyle Berry scored for the Rangers, while Nathan Biccum, Dalley, Wright and Poaps added assists. In game two of the semi-final, the Rangers defeated Kemptville 6-1 in Cardinal to win the first-to-four-points series. Berry had a hat trick to lead the Rangers, while Poaps (2) and Grimes also scored. Grimes, Wright, Myers, Richards and Phillip Biccum added assists. On March 12, the Rangers scored a 5-1 win over the Kemptville Panthers #2 in game one of the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League West Division finals in Spencerville. Sullivan had a hat trick to lead the Rangers, while Severson and Berry added singles. Sullivan, Poaps, Phillip Biccum, Paul DeJong and Garrett Richards added assists. Peeler was strong in goal. In game two, the Rangers travelled to Kemptville and settled for a 2-2 draw to force a game three. Grimes and Sullivan scored for the Rangers. Later that day, the Rangers returned to Kemptville and managed a 2-2 tie, which was enough for South Grenville to clinch the first-to-four-points series and be crowned the West Division champions. Grimes and Sullivan scored for the Rangers, while Severson, Berry and Dalley added assists. The Rangers will now take on North Dundas #2 in the finals which begin Friday at 6:30 pm in Chesterville. On Feb. 1, the Rangers scored a 5-0 win over Athens in regular season action. Grimes and Dalley each scored a pair, while Phillip Biccum added a single. Grimes chipped in with a helper. On Feb. 4, South Grenville #1 defeated South Grenville #3 2-1. Grimes and Dalley scored for South Grenville #1, while Myers and Grimes added assists. On Feb. 8, South Grenville #1 scored a 7-1 victory over South Grenville #2 Grimes scored a pair of goals, while Wright, Berry, Larocque, Colwell and Poaps added singles. Phillip Biccum (2), Colwell (2), Wright (2), Larocque, Grimes and Dalley added assists. On Feb. 15, the Rangers scored a 4-0 win over Kemptville #1. Grimes scored a pair, while Poaps and Dalley added singles. Grimes, Berry and Wright chipped in with helpers. On Feb. 22, the Rangers scored a 2-1 exhibition win over Kemptville #2. Phillip Biccum and Larocque scored in the win, while Larocque, Myers, Poaps and Colwell added helpers. Atom B house league near championshipCARDINAL - The South Grenville atom B house league Rangers have moved within one point of winning the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League atom B house league championship. On March 12, South Grenville travelled to Clayton, New York and managed to secure a 2-2 draw with Thousand Islands in game one of the first-to-four-points playoff series. Sydney Wehmeyer and Gilbert Pankhurst scored for South Grenville, while Payton Marriner added an assist. On March 13, the Rangers scored a 3-2 win over Thousand Islands in game two at the Cardinal and District Community Centre. Rhys Larry, Broydon Stufko and Mike Lawless scored for the Rangers, while Stufko chipped in with a helper. Spencerville Minor Ball holding registration sessions in AprilSPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville Minor Ball league will be holding two softball registration sessions in April. The first session will be held April 5, from 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm at the Spencerville arena. The second session will be on April 7, from 6:30 pm until 8:30 pm at the arena. Boys and girls of all ages are welcome to register. The organization is also looking for coaches for the 2004 season. Anyone interested in coaching or for more information can contact Debbie Seary at 658-3383 or Stephanie Summers at 658-2225. EFSC hosting annual ice show Saturday in SpencervilleSPENCERVILLE - Grease is the theme of this year's Edwardsburgh Figure Skating Club show. About 50 skaters will take to the ice Saturday, March 27 at the Edwardsburgh Community Centre. The afternoon show featuring the popular musical and movie set in an American high school in the 1950s begins at 1 pm; the evening production starts at 7 pm. Special guests at the annual show will be the pairs team of Nathan Last and Emily Jamieson of the Nepean Figure Skating Club. Last is a former member of the EFSC. Tickets can be purchased at the door. PDSA holding registration sessions for late entries SaturdayPRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Soccer Association will be holding a late registration session on this Saturday, March 27 at the Prescott fire hall. The session will run from 9 am until noon, with a $15 late fee charged to each family who still wishes to register. This year the league will feature Under-17, Under-14, Under-12, Under-10, Under-8 and Under-6 divisions with all age groups playing between Monday and Thursday. The league is also looking for coaches for all age groups. For more information visit the PDSA Web site at www.leedsandgrenville.com/pdsa. | |
| |
The Prescott Journal is published weekly by St. Lawrence Printing Co. Ltd., 231 King Street West, Prescott, Ontario, K0E 1T0, (613) 925-4265 - Fax (613) 925-3472 e-mail journal@stlawrenceprinting.on.ca All content is copyright 2004 The Prescott Journal. No reproduction permitted without written permission. |