VOL. 174, NO. 16~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ April 21, 2004

Policing vote set for Monday

Prescott council to decide whether to switch to OPP or retain municipal service

PRESCOTT ­ It is decision time for Prescott council.

The issue of whether the town will proceed with plans to disband the Prescott Police Service in favour of a municipal contract with the Ontario Provincial Police will be put to a vote Monday night. The council meeting, which begins at 7 pm at town hall on Dibble Street West, is open to the public.

Under a five-year OPP contract, Prescott would be designated a separate patrol area within the Grenville County detachment based at the OPP office at the interchange of Highway 401 and Edward Street. The OPP will offer employment to all but one of Prescott's uniformed officers and to one civilian dispatcher. Six other full- and part-time civilian dispatchers and one constable would lose their jobs; the town is expected to contract out dispatch for the Prescott fire department. The existing dispatch also handles after-hours calls for Rideau St. Lawrence utility and public works.

Town council voted in Jan. 2001 to pursue an OPP contract. The Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services declined to approve disbandment of the existing municipal service. A court ruled disbandment shall proceed, and an attempt to have that decision appealed was denied earlier this year.

The OPP patrolled Prescott's streets for several years prior to the creation of the current police service in the late 1950s. However, Prescott has had its own police service for most of the community's two-century existence.

THIS WEEK

Potsdam choir performs in Prescott Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ A concert by the Potsdam Community Chorus will take place this Saturday, April 24 at 8 pm at St. John's Anglican Church.

The chorus, conducted by Prescott resident Heather E. Eyerly, will perform Franz Schubert's Mass in G as well as other choral favourites composed by Willan, Finzi, Lauridsen and Rutter.

Tickets are available in advance and at the door; call 925-5187. St. John's is at the corner of Centre and James streets.

The concert is presented by the State University of New York Potsdam, Crane School of Music, under the auspices of the Fort Town Concert Association.

Idol tickets are on sale

PRESCOTT ­ Tickets are now available for the Leeds and Grenville Idol competition to be held Thursday, May 13 at the Brockville Arts Centre.

The event, a fundraiser for the local United Way, features two categories: junior singer (10 to 16) and adult singer (17 and older). The junior category is fully booked; a few spots for the adults have yet to be filled.

Tickets for the show can be purchased in advance at Doyle's on King Street West in Prescott as well as at the United Way office on George Street in Brockville. Tickets will also be available the night of the show.

For more information on the Leeds and Grenville Idol competition, call 342-8889.

Heart and stroke event has wheel appeal

BROCKVILLE ­ The Big Bike Ride for Stroke will roll into Prescott Thursday, May 6.

Companies, service clubs, teams and other groups are invited to take a spin on the 30-seater that afternoon and collect pledges for the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

The Prescott rides will start and finish at South Grenville District High School. Five rides were in the works as of early this week, but more participants are welcome. Proceeds will be used to support research, health education programs and resources.

For more information, call the foundation at 345-6183. Anyone interested is asked to call by Monday, April 26.

Management positions created

Augusta Township shares chief building official, hires bylaw enforcement

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD ­ Many significant changes to the staffing structure of Augusta Township have recently taken place as a result of council adopting recommendations contained within an organizational review prepared by a consulting firm.

Besides the positions of roads superintendent Fred Leonard and building official Doug Beesley being terminated earlier this month, deputy clerk/treasurer Linda Robinson is in line to be bumped up to the newly-created position of manager of finance/treasurer.

Reeve John McCrea gave a brief explanation of the Templeman Consulting Group study and council's actions at a meeting April 13.

"Two good men lost their jobs," McCrea noted in referring to the terminations and difficult decisions he said council had to make. Jobs have been lost and lives disrupted, resulting in a difficult time in Augusta, but McCrea stressed council has set a course it hopes will bring prosperity.

Council believes two new upper management positions are required to effectively deliver services, McCrea said at the meeting.

However, council has appeared reluctant to release details of the report and its motives for instituting the recommendations.

The 31-page document presented to the public at the meeting was council's report and addressed to all employees. When asked during media question period if the original Templeman document submitted to council in January is available to the public, McCrea responded it is a draft from which council derived its own report, but the documents are similar.

Wilkinson noted the original was marked confidential under solicitor/client privilege. The study cost $22,332.

The report contains 51 recommendations that address the overall structure of the organization, operation and administration of the township. In its observations, the consulting team identifies a number of obstacles and barriers that have resulted in a lack of vision and direction with respect to the future of the township, a lack of direction for staff, and ineffective communication among council, staff and ratepayers.

In addition, there has not been consistent enforcement, if any, of the municipality's bylaws and policies, and a lack of formal policies and procedures with little or no planning or infrastructure maintenance, the report states.

Here's an overview of the recommendations council has adopted:

* Wilkinson will be known as CAO/clerk/economic development officer/deputy treasurer and will report directly to council.

She will be responsible for the supervision of the management of all municipal operations through two "functional supervisors," as well as for tourism and management of external contract and services.

* A manager of finance/treasurer/deputy clerk and a manager of public works will report directly to the CAO. The finance manager will be responsible for the municipal treasury, deputy clerk functions, tax/revenue collection, accounts receivable/payable, reception and payroll. A receptionist/secretary will report to the manager.

The public works manager will be responsible for roads and highways, recreation, planning, waste management, municipal facilities and property, building inspection, bylaw enforcement and animal control, fire fighting water services. A working foreman, the public works crew and a building inspector/bylaw enforcement and animal control officer will report to the public works manager.

* According to the consultants, with the exception of the CAO, no one on township staff has the required financial/treasury background or academic qualifications of a treasurer.

Council has therefore decided the finance manager position will be filled by way of an internal competition. In the event the incumbent deputy clerk/treasurer (Linda Robinson) is successful in the competition, she must embark upon an appropriate municipal finance training program that must be successfully completed by Aug. 31, 2006. If she is unwilling or unable to complete the program, the manager position will be subject to an external competition and the status of the incumbent assessed. She remains in her current role until that time.

* It was also determined the township public works department could be better served by a working supervisor/lead hand position. The job will be filled through an internal/external competition. Grader operator Donnie Throop, a public works employee for about 30 years, was appointed temporary lead hand. Equipment operator Adrian O'Neill, who had been appointed assistant roads supervisor to fill in when Fred Leonard was away, was not chosen for the job.

* Augusta will be contracting Elizabethtown-Kitley Township for the services of a chief building official. Elizabethtown-Kitley has also agreed to participate in the job-sharing arrangement. Someone will be in the Augusta office Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and Friday mornings only.

* Albert Martin Lowson has been contracted as a part-time bylaw enforcement officer, and Laura J. Lowson has been appointed his alternate.

Chamber of Commerce sticks with Prescott

RIVERVIEW HEIGHTS ­ The name of the local Chamber of Commerce will not be changed from Prescott and District to South Grenville, the board of directors has decided.

A proposal to rename the business organization was voted down by the board at its monthly lunch meeting Thursday at the Rothesay Restaurant. The board was to have voted on the name change proposal last month, but the matter was postponed.

Ken Durand said he introduced the motion to get the issue on the table. Having thought about it, Durand told the directors Thursday the Chamber needs to take a leadership role. Many local politicians have not been co-operative and have not done a very good job of handling economic development, according to Durand.

Opponents of renaming the organization indicated they see no need for such a move. Bill Pakeman said he is not opposed to change, but does not see the reason to take the name Prescott and "throw it in the garbage" after more than 100 years of use by the Chamber.

An overwhelming number of Chambers in Ontario bear the name of the town or city in which they are based, according to Pakeman.

It was also noted there are already members from Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal townships that have no problem belonging to a Prescott and District group.

"Prescott should not have to apologize to its neighbours for being the commercial centre of South Grenville," said Chamber director and former Prescott mayor Tom Doyle.

Chamber past-president Lewis Beach indicated there is a stigma attached to the name; some people from outside Prescott do not feel they are being included.

Pakeman indicated he would warmly welcome the neighbouring townships to the Chamber, but added they should not suggest a name change until after they have become members.

In the end, however, four directors voted in favour of the motion; 10 or 11 voted against.

A compromise to use the name Prescott-South Grenville was not voted on at the meeting. Pakeman and other directors have indicated they could accept this compromise.

The Chamber has committed $6,000 to a project that will see the posting of highway signs that welcome visitors to the communities of South Grenville.

Augusta changes affect meetings and committees

MAYNARD ­ The procedures of Augusta council, like that of township staff, have been modified as a result of recommendations adopted from the Templeman review.

Review consultants determined existing council procedures lack clarity and are inconsistent, leading to a lack of co-ordinated corporate direction which hinders the organization's ability to achieve opportunities envisioned for the township.

Regular public council meetings will now be held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month beginning at 7:30 pm. Council previously met on the second Monday of each month. The amendment will come into effect upon the reading of the bylaw at the next regular meeting of council to be held May 10.

Council will maintain the following committees: roads, buildings and bridges, finance and administration, waste management, economic development, recreation, planning and committee of adjustment. Previous committees of council had been personnel and finance, roads, waste management and recreation and ball.

As well, council will act as a committee of the whole to discuss pertinent issues of business, although decisions would not be made while in this session. These meetings will be held on alternate weeks to the regular meetings. Committee of the whole meetings will also be open to the public, unless restricted by law.

The new diversity of local artists on display at guild show

South Grenville artists shine in Maitland April 30-May 2

By Cortney Willard, Special to The Journal

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Ronald Landry and Adam Walasek have more than their artistic ability in common.

Landry specializes in woodcarving and woodburning and Walasek concentrates on clay structures, vases and figurines, but neither really considers himself an artist.

The South Grenville Guild of Fine Art considers what they create art, and they along with other local artists will be featured in the 13th annual art show and sale named "The New Diversity," which will be held April 30-May 2 at MERC Hall in Maitland.

The guild was originally made up of painters, but through new members like Landry and Walasek, it has been able to broaden the types of art available.

Walasek, an art teacher for 30 years, the last 26 of them at South Grenville District High School, says he always considered himself a teacher first with some artistic talent. After retiring last January, he was able to dedicate more time and energy to his craft.

He creates his clay structures from pictures and buildings in and around Prescott and from his imagination.

The idea to create the structures came from a student project he designed while he was still teaching.

"Whenever I wanted my students to do something, I wanted to make sure that I could do it first," he said.

Walasek soon found he could create these impressive buildings complete with realistic looking brickwork and straw roofs, as well as igloos and teepees.

Recently, Walasek and his wife Judy returned from a three-week vacation in Greece, where Walasek says he found inspiration for more structures.

Unlike Walasek, Landry did not spend a life surrounded by art. Landry worked for 32 years for Canada Customs, finishing his career as chief of the international mail division. Landry also spent 24 years of his life showing quarter horses, both as a hobby and professionally.

"I always had an interest in woodcarving," Landry stated, going on to note time was always a factor and he never really got into it until after his retirement.

Landry is self-taught and found a way to combine his love of horses with his new passions, woodcarving and woodburning. He carves horses, some of them complete with rider, out of one single piece of wood. He also carves faces and does woodburnings of people's pets.

Landry chalks up the success he has had so far to his competitive nature and the fact he always challenges himself to something new.

Both Landry and Walasek became members of the guild within the past year, and both were recommended to the guild by fellow artists who seem to have recognized the unique styles each man possesses.

Committee paves way for better twp. roads

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD ­ A long-range plan to pave all roads in Augusta Township is in the works.

Deputy Reeve Doug Barton, who is also chair of the roads, buildings and public works committee, said at council's April 13 meeting the committee is prioritizing roads and establishing a paving plan.

By taking "an active approach dollar-wise" the township could pave all its roads in 15 to 20 years, Barton explained.

The process involves repaving seven kilometres of roads per year, and newly paving three kilometres of gravel roads per year.

The ambitious approach will demonstrate the township is not only maintaining its roads, but also increasing paved-road area, Barton said. The committee recommendations are "food for thought."

As the process proceeds over the years, less gravel will be required on roads, and the paving plan would be accelerated, he added.

For the short term, township council favoured establishing a five-year plan to prioritize roads for work.

The committee intends to present the full plan at the next council meeting.

Fish and game club addresses concerns of neighbours

MAYNARD ­ The Grenville Fish and Game Club (GFGC) and neighbours opposed to some of the practises at the North Campbell Road facility are being asked by Augusta council to sort out their differences between themselves.

Neighbours complained to council last month they are being negatively affected by the activities on club property, and are concerned about health, safety and noise issues.

Geoff Fortier, a club member and past-president, informed council at its April 13 meeting the facility has existed at its present location for 50 years - before some houses or even Highway 401 existed nearby - and there has never been a reported incident of death or injury due to shooting activities on the property.

The club goes "above and beyond" to ensure safety regulations are met and followed in its various programs, including shot gunning, rifle and pistol shooting, archery, kayaking, fishing and environmental conservation projects, Fortier said. The club is also a strong supporter of youth and community events, such as blood donor clinics, he stressed.

Fortier refuted many of the claims made by the neighbours, suggesting exaggerations were used to sway the uninformed. GFGC wants to be the best club in Ontario, not the largest, he said, adding quality and not quantity of programming is its goal.

In noting "safety will always continue to be our number one consideration," Fortier said the club offers training courses in hunter safety education, firearm and handgun safety, archery instructors' training, CPR, first aid and small craft pleasure operators courses.

Weekend shooting competitions can result in thousands of rounds being fired, but Fortier said those events also raise money for worthwhile causes.

Facility boundary fences are posted with "danger" signs, he said, and extensive earth berms prevent bullets or arrows from entering private property. Range officers are designated during shooting activities, and safety concerns bring an immediate ceasefire.

The alternative to the fish and game club not providing a controlled environment is shooting in open fields or gravel pits where there is no protection, Fortier said. "We do not take safety lightly."

The club executive is considering noise reduction options, such as building an indoor, enclosed pistol range and moving the shotgun ranges to the east side of the road where trees would muffle the sound.

Both Reeve John McCrea and Councillor John Fischl said the club and neighbours should be able to communicate and work out their own issues.

Check out spring arrivals

LIMERICK FOREST ­ Come to the Limerick Chalet tonight (Wednesday, April 21) at 7 pm and find out what is happening in nature now that spring is here.

"Spring Arrivals" is the subject of this, the latest in a series of seminars dealing with wildlife topics. Everything from what is waking up and what is returning from the south to nature's symphonies and love in the air will be covered in tonight's presentation.

The seminar is hosted by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and the Grenville Land Stewardship Council. For more information, contact Ed Reynolds at 342-3840, ext. 329 or Jack Henry at 342-8528.

Bag tags being considered in Augusta

Proposed waste disposal fees subject of April 26 public meeting at snowmobile club

By Monica Whitney, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD ­ Augusta residents are being asked to comment on proposed changes to the township's waste disposal system, including paying a fee for bagged and non-bagable waste.

Council gave first reading at its April 13 meeting to a bylaw that would regulate a system for the disposal of municipal waste and to provide for policies, regulations and fees for use.

A public meeting will take place Monday, April 26 at 7 pm at the Grenville Snowmobile Club on Charleville Road. A special meeting of council will follow the public portion.

According to the proposed bylaw, residents will be issued 52 free bags for waste. Additional tags would cost $1.25 each. Every bag coming into the North Augusta landfill site or Maynard transfer station shall only be approved clear plastic gags provided by and sold by the township. The bags may not weigh more than 40 pounds each.

The primary goal of the proposed changes is to extend the life of the North Augusta site and encourage recycling, explained Councillor John Fischl, chair of the waste management committee.

With a waste management budget of about a half-million dollars, Fischl said the township needs to be fiscally responsible. More money pumped into waste management means less money for other items like roads, he added.

The committee is "very seriously" discussing curbside garbage pick-up for the township, and the new bylaw is a start in that process, Fischl said.

The councillor added he expects some immediate anger from residents about the proposed changes, but he cautioned the plan is "not much different from other municipalities."

The township is also encouraging public discussion. "We want to hear what the public has to say," Fischl said. "We'll listen."

Here's an outline of some of the other regulations contained within the proposed bylaw:

* Scavenging of household waste will not be permitted within the site.

* Supervisors will check all identification, loads and other materials and direct them to appropriate location.

* All freezers, refrigerators, de-humidifiers and air conditioners must have a certificate attached stating all freon has been removed by a qualified technician.

* The site will be for the sole and exclusive use of residents of Augusta, and use of the site by another person, party or company is forbidden.

* Recyclable materials must be directed to separate containers for newspaper, glass bottles and cardboard.

* All materials being transported to the site must be properly secured to prevent garbage from falling off or leaving the vehicle before being deposited.

* A fee schedule has also been set out for residents to deposit certain non-bagable waste items, such as tires, brush, mattresses and white goods.

Skateboard park committee seeks additional $20,000 loan from town

First loan of $10,000 can be repaid; decision on second request is expected Monday

PRESCOTT ­ The Prescott Kiwanis Skateboard Park has asked the town for a loan of $20,000 with which the second phase of the park can be completed this year.

Committee chairperson and Councillor Nancy Lane raised the issue during a town corporate services committee meeting Monday night. The park committee received a $10,000 grant from the town last year in addition to the loan.

Lane explained the committee is ready to repay the loan. Almost $7,000 would be in the form of a GST rebate from the federal government to the municipality for items purchased to build the park on Churchill Road West near the Kriska warehouse. The rest of the money comes for ongoing fundraising efforts.

Lane said the $20,000 would be used to erect a half-pipe and add more concrete to the skateboard park. In noting more than 300 youngsters signed up to use the facility when it opened last year, Lane indicated the additional loan would be paid back in two years or less.

"It costs council nothing other than goodwill," she told the corporate services committee.

The request prompted a lively discussion; all seven council members were present. Councillor Suzanne Dodge said the park is "a wonderful facility," but she also said the town needs the money in other places.

Councillor Bob Pelda stated the request is a great idea. However, some council members indicated they would prefer to hear from Treasurer Laurie Kirkby (absent for Monday's meeting) before making a decision. There was also a desire expressed to establish a written policy for such requests.

A decision is expected at next Monday's meeting. Lane said the committee wants to come to council and present the $10,000; the plan is to work on phase two as soon as possible.

The value of phase one is estimated to be more than $147,000.

Prescott losing another family doctor

PRESCOTT ­ The demand for additional family physicians in the Prescott area is about to grow again.

Dr. John Davies is leaving the Prescott Family Medical Associates practice in mid-May. In a recent letter to patients, Davies indicates he is relocating so he can be closer to his wife, a surgeon who has accepted a new position in British Columbia.

Davies joined the Prescott practice in Jan. 2002.

This will mark the second departure by a family physician in a year. Dr. John Findlay closed his Prescott office last year; due to illness, Findlay has been able to provide limited service at his Brockville office.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) lists two doctors ­ Gunvant Bhatt and Shirley Appleby ­ as accepting new patients.

In his letter to patients, Davies states his colleagues at the Prescott practice "...will try to provide you with continuous care until such time as a replacement doctor is available."

Prescott is not the only community coping with a physician shortage. Of the more than 40 doctors CPSO lists for Brockville, only two are accepting new patients.

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has designated South Grenville as an underserviced area for physicians.

Davies came to Prescott with the help of the Leeds-South Grenville Physician Recruitment Task Force.

Youth Fair set for next Wednesday

PRESCOTT - The second annual Youth Fair will be held next Wednesday, April 28 at South Grenville District High School.

The fair, which is hosted by Connect Youth, Prescott Interact club and the high school, will run from 8 am until 8 pm with plenty to see.

Representatives from all community organizations including mental health, substance abuse, financial assistance, employment supports, sexual well being, teen parenting and spiritual supports. The organizers have also extended invitations to larger organizations this year.

The fair's objective is to promote and increase awareness of organizations available to youths between the age of 14 and 20 and will help empower rural youth and their families.

Last year, more than 800 students and teachers travelled through the fair meeting front line workers from local agencies.

The fair will also feature a guest speaker. A psychiatrist from the Royal Ottawa Hospital and consulting psychiatrist for the Child and Youth Wellness Centre will make a presentation on "Youth at Risk" at 7 pm.

The fair will be closed from 3 pm until 5 pm to allow for a dinner break.

For more information on the fair, call 925-2855 ext. 3373.

Council seeks the right fit for third floor of Dibble Street municipal building

PRESCOTT ­ Town officials is actively seeking expressions of interest in the third floor of the Dibble Street municipal building.

In noting there are at least two parties that are interested in occupying the vacant top floor of town hall, and tours of the building are taking place, council members indicated at Monday's corporate services committee meeting it is time to go to the community.

It was suggested the third floor would be suitable for a government, quasi-government, community or social services agency that would be seeking a long-term lease.

Rental fees were not discussed Monday, but some council members indicated they would prefer to see market value numbers. They also indicated council does not want to be seen as competing with commercial landlords in Prescott.

Prior to recent renovations, the third floor was home to the local Air Cadet squadron.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"This fat cat Liberal spending will only serve to feed the insatiable spending appetite of the Ontario Liberals."

Leeds-Grenville PC MPP Bob Runciman, commenting on a proposal to apply provincial sales tax to prepared food items under $4.

Editor's Notebook

DECISION TIME: Town council will decide Monday night whether to proceed with plans to disband the Prescott Police Service in favour of a contract with the Ontario Provincial Police. The public has been given a chance to have a say, and now it is time for council to do its job.

This newspaper has been critical of the way this issue has been handled during the past three years, and we recognize the need for our elected officials to make a decision and give those affected by the prolonged uncertainty the closure they deserve.

Whichever way council decides to go, we must respect the fact its members were duly elected by the voters. We can choose to disagree with their decision-making, but they were entrusted by the people to represent the town's best interests.

As long as each member of council can say with a clear conscience he or she has taken all the information into account and is voting based on a sincere belief the town's interests are being served, we should accept the decision and deal with the damage this process has inflicted on our community.

AN OPEN-AND-SHUT CASE: The drawn-out policing issue in Prescott and staff restructuring taking place in Augusta Township are difficult subjects for elected officials to tackle. The public's right to know must be balanced by an individual employee's right to privacy.

We recognize the need for councils to conduct certain personnel-related discussions behind closed doors, but we discourage councils and senior municipal staff from using the premise of personnel matters to get reporters out of the room so elected officials can discuss matters which are indeed controversial but do not meet provincial criteria which would justify having a closed meeting.

Legitimate closed-door matters should be handled privately, but everything else is fair game. We understand you have a job to do, and we hope you understand so do we. Same goes for senior staff.

VOLUNTEERS PITCH IN: The Journal makes a point throughout the year to acknowledge what volunteers do in our community. In noting this is Volunteer Week, we once again salute the men, women and children who perform selfless acts with little or no thought of personal gain or thanks.

We also note this is Pitch-in Canada Week. Volunteers do their own "pitching in" every day of the year, but we encourage everyone to make that extra effort this week to ensure our community is an even nicer place.

Whether it is picking up that piece of trash on the sidewalk or pooling together to clean up a roadside, there are no shortage of volunteer opportunities when it comes to maintaining and preserving the environment.

Tim Ruhnke

Blues program an opportunity which should not be missed

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS by David Dickenson

It's nice to see the boys get their turn to shine in basketball in Leeds and Grenville. I remember growing up, loving basketball and playing (probably not too well) at the basketball courts in my neighbourhood but never really having an outlet to learn the game and get strong coaching on a consistent basis.

Sure, we had elementary and high school hoops which lasted about two months of the year and the occasional basketball camp, but that was one day, maybe two, tops.

Then along came the Brockville Blazers and the girls got their chance to shine and haven't looked back producing strong talent such as Stacey Dales-Schuman of the WNBA's Washington Mystics, college and university players Krissy Doran (nee McDonald), Christy Wilson, Cristy Latham and Kendra Walker-Roche.

As the girls got going and got better and better, the guys really seemed to be left out of the loop. Year after year, a program for guys basketball was talked about and either never came about or was so poorly organized it failed almost immediately, but that didn't stop everyone from wanting one. For the kids today, they actually have one with the Brockville Blues regional basketball teams.

Kids who aren't great hockey players, or just really love the game of basketball are starting to learn the game and get a chance to get the coaching needed to help hone some skills that this area can possibly produce some college and university basketball players or even some U.S. scholarship hoopsters who are male.

Over my two years at the paper now, I've talked to some of the top basketball coaches in the area and the one common thing they said was it was the kids who didn't play competitive hockey who seemed to be the ones excelling at basketball and they finally have somewhere to take that. Imagine how good they could be if they play regularly and get the chance to improve. It should be great.

The Blazers and Blues programs are both great and are really starting to show some promise, with a lot of the players who should dominate local high school basketball next year getting their chance to shine today.

As I've now watched about three midget Blues games, I've gotten to see the kind of opportunity the kids are getting that myself and all the guys my age never had.

John Doran is on the sidelines coaching the team, talking to the players out there, helping them know their surroundings, encouraging them and taking them aside on the bench when they made a mistake to help them learn from it and improve their game, while having some fun.

I think it's really apparent to the players and the parents how good a thing the Blues' program has become.

Parents are there cheering each game, the kids are having a good time, laughing at their mistakes, getting better and showing what kind of talent this area really has in hoops.

Prescott's economy surges as housing and businesses grow

FROM THE ARCHIVES

April 15, 1954

* Building activity for Prescott this summer will likely reach a total value of more than $1.5 million, it was learned this week following a survey of the three housing subdivisions and the big addition to RCA Victor Co. now under way. Heading the list is a group of 30 housing units in McAuley Gardens for a value of $300,000.

* More business changes are indicated along King Street as Prescott's economy continues on the upswing. The IGA (Grand Union) grocery is completing renovations of the premises formerly occupied by Tannier Motors, King Street East, and workmen are now installing a modern front.

Eaton's mail order office will take over the store next door to the Princess Theatre, now occupied by Marion's Cradle Shop and Stearns' Tailor Shop.

Extensive renovations are planned by Eaton's, including a modern front. Miss Ward will take over the premises next to the New Service Lunch, presently occupied by Eaton's. Mr. Stearns will operate his tailor shop from his home.

April 22, 1964

* Extension of Churchill Road westward for 2,000 feet to open up a new industrial area will be speeded up this spring as town council has called for tenders for the work. The new stretch will not extend far enough westward to link with Sophia Street, but may permit traffic from RCA to reach Edward Street directly.

April 18, 1984

* Municipal officials are hoping the federal government will offer to take part in the building of a small craft marina in Prescott - an offer that could make such a waterfront development a reality. Mayor Sandra Lawn said the town is negotiating with the government's small craft harbours officials over a program that would see the feds take responsibility for the dredging of the harbour and the construction of a breakwater.

April 20, 1994

* Members of the Prescott Police Service are sporting a more relaxed look during night shifts. Officers were issued an official ball cap as a measure to reduce costs and enhance comfort in their uniforms. The blue-peaked cap features a crest emblazoned with an image of the official badge.

The sandy beaches of Norway - so that's where Major Jack was

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

For 55 years we have harboured this ugly feeling about our father disappearing among the cafes and vineyards of France in 1944, reappearing for a letter or two from the majestic dikes of Holland and then reappearing again for some celebrations near the mystical black forest in Germany. Leave it to good old Paul Martin last week to set the record straight and to waylay this half century plus of worry about Major Jack.

He informed Canada's poorly-armed-forces in Gagetown, NB, last week that from 1944 until the end of the war in 1945 Canada's feared forces were fighting for control of the beaches of Norway, not Normandy, as we have been taught all these years.

One thing we would like to get straight, however, is that the forces who fought on Juno Beach in Normandy suffered just as many casualties as the Canadians who staged the attacks on the beaches of Norway.

Martin stood in such awe of the lads from Canada that he commended them twice to the Gagetown gathering for their gallantry.

Is there any wonder that Martin can't find a penny of the $100 million lost in the sponsorship scandal in Quebec in 1995. Perhaps his dad sent his family letters "from Vimy" where John McCallum had the Canadians proving themselves against the Vichy - the same guys whose trenches were filled with cold potato soup.

*****

There definitely has to have been some behind the scenes bargaining between Ottawa and Pakistan to allow Maha Elsamnal and her invalided 14-year-old son Karim into Canada to seek proper medical aid after he was wounded in a firefight between Pakistani soldiers and members of al Qaeda forces along the Pakistan border last October.

The kid and his mother are admitted members of al Qaeda and admit taking part in the battle that not only saw the son paralyzed by a Pakistani bullet, but also saw his father Ahmed, one of Osama bin Laden's friends and advisors killed. Pakistan obviously wanted to get rid of the mother-son team, and because they had what Brockville MPP Bob Runciman calls passports of convenience (Canadian), they were sent here where medical service ranks among the best in the world.

Cross-Canada Check-up on Sunday afternoon opened their lines to Canadians to seek their opinions of the pair, and although very few felt the boy should be treated as a Canadian after battling allied forces, they were reluctant to see the family turned away with no medical service al all.

We think the Khadrs should receive the medical treatment they deserve as Canadians but they should also pay the same penalty as other Canadians would pay for having broken our laws. The Khadrs should be charged with fighting against the Pakistani forces and should be looked upon as criminals for aiding al Qaeda.

If you or I or anyone else with a legitimate Canadian passport joined forces against our United Nations troops in Afghanistan, received near fatal wounds, and then returned to Canada to seek freedom and free medical attention, we are sure we would be treated by the Canadian government and by Canadians as criminals.

We think the Khadrs returned to Canada under the good graces of the Liberal government because Pakistan didn't want them nor did the al Qaeda. If Canada is going to keep them then they have to be treated as war criminals and prosecuted as such. Being Muslim should not ensure their safety.

*****

The fastest growing faith in Canada at present is the Muslim faith, and unfortunately within its ranks are the militant Islamists who want to destroy western democracy such as the citizens of Canada and the United States enjoy it.

The fast-growing Muslim communities in the two countries accuse our police, government officials and to a certain extent, our private citizens, of racial profiling. We are, they say, accusing all Muslim communities of harbouring terrorists.

We admit a certain amount of this is true, but we also point out there is very little said by the Muslim communities about Islamist groups who live within their ranks.

They have to be much more active in seeking out the extremists and terrorists from within their own ranks and help bring them to justice. Many say they have sought refuge in Canada because of our "gentle" nature.

This nature, to a certain extent, does exist, and it will grow among all Canadians if those with a new culture and a new religion go out of their way to share it with us.

We have only to look at the chasms that have been healed between the Roman Catholics and the Protestants in this nation in the past 60 years.

*****

We think what we saw two weekends ago and what we witnessed a few years ago with Svend Robinson, the NDP Member of Parliament and gay activist, from not only British Columbia but across Canada, had more to do with his sexuality than his unbearable work load.

Svend is fast becoming an old man and it is getting harder and harder for him to satisfy a young lover such as Max Riveron, so he had to commit outrageous acts to keep his attention and affection. We won't be surprised if the next big news from the left coast is a tweak of our tear ducts by Svend telling us that Max has left him.

SCHOOL SCENE

Boundary Street Public School: Junior Kindergarten registration and orientation will be held this afternoon (Wednesday, April 21). Information packages were sent to parents who pre-registered. If you have not yet contacted the school to register your son or daughter for September, please call the school office at 925-2803.

School council is selling ice cream during the lunch hour. Items may be purchased at the kitchen. The next school council meeting will be held Tuesday, April 27 at 7 pm in the library. Thanks to fundraising efforts, two new picnic tables will be installed on the senior yard at the end of the month.

Mrs. Fortier's class would like to acknowledge Candy Alexander and members of the Prescott Curling Club for providing instruction and the facilities for an excellent curling experience.

Noon hour basketball continues Monday to Thursday. Track and field practice will begin soon.

Hot lunch this week is hamburgers.

St. Joseph Catholic School: The St. Joe's community continues to celebrate Easter for 50 days. The 50th day is Pentecost, when we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Congratulations to our Good Samaritans: Sierra McGuin, Justyn Noccey, Sean Blackburn and Charlie Hansen.

Our Grade 4 classes will visit the "Farm Comes to Town" Agriculture Fair in Kemptville today (April 21). This event consists of a variety of booths where students are introduced to aspects of agriculture through presentations, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Mr. Lalonde, Miss Pilon and the Grade 6P students will be meeting with Wellington House residents again this week. This outreach program has been rewarding for students and residents.

The St. Joseph Catholic School council is hosting another great dance. This Spring Fever dance will be Friday, April 23 from 7 to 9 pm. A portion of the ticket price will go to charity.

St. Mark Catholic School: This week, we focus our attention on Earth Week activities as we remind everyone we are "Stewards of the Earth."

Within our classes, we will complete activities including composting, litterless lunches, wearing green on Earth Day, taking care of our adopted trees and beginning our next "greening" project ­ partnering with the Grenville Land Stewardship office to establish a butterfly garden at St. Mark. We hope to establish a habitat in order that Painted Lady butterflies will be attracted to the shrubs we plant.

We welcome to St. Mark our new Junior Kindergarten students for orientation Thursday, April 22.

Sunday, April 25 is the Feast of St. Mark.

The health unit will be at our school April 26-27 to complete dental screening for Kindergarten and Grade 2 students.

Our Grade 2 students preparing for First Holy Communion will have their retreat day Wednesday, April 28.

Hot lunch is pizza.

April 30 dance-a-thon helps Easter Seal Kids

BROCKVILLE ­ A six-hour dance-a-thon for Easter Seal Kids will take place Friday, April 30 at 5 pm at Thousand Islands Secondary School.

Participants must be in Grade 8 or older. Admission is free for those who have at least $25 in pledges. Prizes will be awarded.

Pledge forms can be picked up at 1000 Islands Mall or by calling the society at 342-7110.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Let the residents make the policing decision

Copy of a letter to Mayor Lawn and Prescott councillors

I attended the meeting on March 24 at the Legion with regards to keeping the current town police force or moving to the OPP. I was very surprised and disappointed to hear Mayor Lawn state at the end of the meeting this will be a very difficult decision.

Unless all decisions come down to money (and money as of right now, not money in the future) and not what is in the town's best interest, I do not believe there should even be a consideration to give up the town police. In this day and age when crime is continually on the upwards climb, 24/7 police presence is an absolute must, not to mention the loss of more local jobs.

I do not see significant cost savings to justify getting rid of our police force. And what guarantees do we have that over the next few years the costs will be more (with less coverage and services) than what we had expected? Once you people make a decision to go OPP, there is no going back.

Can we not use the resources the OPP have (that Gary Sluytman talked about at the meeting) at a fairly reasonable cost, considering the number of times it would be likely we would need to use them?

Can the OPP and town police not work together if necessary and provide the best possible service?

If any one of you knows in your own mind you have made the wrong decision in voting for OPP, now is the time to rethink.

This is a decision that will directly impact the residents of Prescott. Let the residents make the decision. The seriousness of it certainly warrants a vote. I don't believe such an important decision should rest on the shoulders of a few people.

Put it to a vote and then you will know for sure what the people of Prescott want for their town.

Elizabeth Garswood

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

The senior games for this area start with euchre April 26 and continue for the month of May. Different events will be held in locations from Brockville to Cardinal. Walker House will be hosting the bridge games May 7. A low registration fee will allow you to participate in all the events you choose. We still have a few entry forms left. Please call 925-5300.

We have a few tickets for the mystery farce "Curse of the Werewolf" at the Morrisburg theatre April 30. Arrangements have been made for dinner preceding the play. We will meet at Walker House at 4:45 pm to car pool.

Men are reminded of the breakfast Thursday, April 22 at 9:30 am. We hope to get the pool table fixed at the same time. Call for reservations.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Richard Kingston; 2nd, Eleanor Gilligan; door, Wanda Wilson. Fun bridge ­ Jean Farlinger. Wednesday night bridge ­ high, Joyce Nesbitt; 2nd, Richard Kingston. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Mary Reynolds; 2nd, Geneva Odell and Bernice Arcand; door, Hilda Hutton.

Johnstown pool deck approved

Ward One councillors question cost of $15,000 for interlocking stones

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Work on a new deck around the Johnstown pool is expected to start shortly after council voted in favour of the $15,000 project.

At Monday's council meeting, Public Works Manager Mike Spencer brought forward an estimate to purchase and install new interlocking patio stones from Carefree Pools around the pool at a cost of $15,536.40.

Ward One councillors Hugh Cameron and Charlie Burrell indicated that they had each looked into the costs of completing such a project in concrete and found it could be done for roughly $10,000.

"With a savings of $5,000, I think we should pursue more quotes based on the estimate I received," said Cameron. "With concrete it can still be cut into swaths so only about a two-foot square would need to be replaced if repairs had to be done underneath.

"Also, with concrete we don't have settling and the interlocking moves and more maintenance would be required."

Spencer indicated he had been talking to president of the South Edwardsburgh Recreation Association, Lorne Bender, who told him the pool originally had concrete decking when it was installed in 1973.

"He said ten years after the concrete was in they had to pay to remove parts of the concrete so much they went with interlocking stone," said Spencer. "SERA covered about 58 per cent of the costs at the recreation complex in Johnstown last year and stated that, in his personal opinion, he is against concrete. Last year, they gave us $4,000."

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan added, "I'd sooner have inter-locking paving stones. If we go to tender, then the pool will be closed for the first of the season by the time it gets to that point."

Cameron responded, "It's $5,000 and things are tough. There are a lot of other things that money could be spent on. This can still get done, but I am concerned with the quote I received being $5,000 cheaper."

Mayor Peggy Taylor decided the matter had been discussed enough and brought the matter to a vote; council voted 4-2 in favour of the stones.

Township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald indicated work on the patio is expected to begin shortly.

"It should start ASAP," said McDonald. "It shouldn't affect the pool's opening, since we should be able to get it scheduled and done during our spring plan. I am not sure of the timetable, however."

Fire pumper donated to agricultural society

SPENCERVILLE - Council voted Monday to donate one of its old fire trucks to the Spencerville Agricultural Society.

Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated that the old pumper truck has been inactive for a long period of time and sitting on the fair grounds for the past three years.

"They use it to water the track," said Taylor, "so it is still of use for them, so it works out well."

Township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald indicated the donation will allow the township to get the pumper off its books for insurance costs.

"It won't save a lot because it is a cost value policy," said McDonald. "It wouldn't be substantial, but there will be some savings."

McDonald indicated it would also save the township in time, since the truck still needed to be safetied and have work done on the braakes.

Highland games plans proceed

SPENCERVILLE - The township has approved the addition of the Veterans Memorial Highland Games committee as a committee of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council.

Council approved the 20-person committee after it made a presentation to council at the April 14 committee-of-the-whole meeting in Johnstown. The group is organizing the games, which are set to be held June 19 on the Spencerville Fair Grounds featuring pipe bands and numerous other typically Scottish events.

Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated the new committee was accepted since it fit the guidelines of similar committees of council such as the Cardinal Community Festival Committee. The move enables the games committee to be covered by the municipality's insurance.

"It's a community event that is put on by residents who are not trying to make a profit, but are trying to enhance the community," said Taylor. "They're trying to bring in tourists which will hopefully come in spend time in the community. Hopefully, it will grow really big."

Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey added, "They told us this should bring in between 2,000 and 8,000 people, so even if it's on the small end it should be a big help to the local economy."

Sea Cadet Battle of Atlantic ceremony in May

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Sea Cadets are preparing for a busy month of May which will feature the annual Battle of the Atlantic ceremony Sunday, May 2.

The cadets will march to St. John's United Church to attend the 11 am service, before marching to the cenotaph for a short ceremony which will also include members of the Cardinal Legion.

The Battle of the Atlantic was the longest running campaign of the Second World War commencing within 24 hours of the war's outbreak in 1939 and running until the final sinkings six years later in May 1945. The battle pitted Allied naval and air forces against German U-boats, whose primary targets were the convoys of merchant ships carrying vital cargo from North America to Europe.

The battle is celebrated the first Sunday in May with Remembrance services held across Canada in Canadian forces naval bases, HMC ships, reserve units and cadet units. The ceremony commemorates the sacrifices of the sailor and merchant seamen who gave their lives for their country while defending the convoy routes of the North Atlantic.

The Canadian Navy lost 1,797 sailors and 32 ships in the battle; 319 sailors were wounded.

The Sea Cadets will also hold their tag day Saturday, May 1; cadets will be stationed around the area selling tags to raise money.

Fish and game club prepares for derbies

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Fish and Game Club (CFGC) is preparing to hold its pike derby in May.

The derby will run Saturday, May 1 and Sunday, May 2 with cash prizes awarded to the top five finishers. First place will receive $100.

Two weigh-in sessions will be held each day from 11:30 am-noon and from 7:30 until 8 pm at the Cardinal Legion boat ramp.

The CFGC will also be holding a junior mudpout derby on Sunday, April 25 from 1 pm until 3 pm at Sawmill Creek. The junior derby will feature cash prizes, hot dogs and drinks will be served after the derby.

LEGION NEWS

The Legion will host the Riverside seniors today (Wednesday, April 21) at 1:30 pm, before the men's horseshoes league work party at 5:30 pm and ladies darts at 7 pm.

On Thursday, April 22, there will be euchre at 7:30 pm and there will be mixed darts at 7:30 pm on Friday, April 23. The Interbranch Dart League will hold its banquet at the Cardinal Legion on Saturday, April 24.

Local level of Ontario Senior Games euchre competition will take place Monday, April 26 at 10 am, while men's horseshoe league play will begin at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, April 28.

Trillium money can be used for kitchen

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

The Maitland Education and Recreation Corporation has received the go ahead to spend its $25,000 Trillium grant to renovate the kitchen at the hall.

The project was put on hold after the temporary closing of MERC Hall this winter; however, MERC has been successful in obtaining its portion of the funds necessary to complete the project and the group has been given the go ahead to proceed. MERC Director Danielle McCaffrey says following the renovation, the MERC Hall will be a state-of-the-art facility that can compete with any location as a venue for any function from weddings to training sessions and meetings.

The board is now actively seeking volunteers to provide labour to take down the existing cupboards and ready the hall for the project. Anyone who would like to help should call McCaffrey at 348-1891.

Community clean-up

This Saturday, April 24, is community clean-up day in Maitland. MERC is looking for volunteers to help at the hall and at the Cedar Street Park.

Volunteers are needed to rake the lawns, cleanup debris, prepare the gardens, paint and repair portions of the hall and clean areas inside the hall. If you would like to help, come to the hall this Saturday morning. The cleanup goes from 9 am until noon.

Youth dance

This Friday, April 23, there will be a youth dance at the Maitland Hall from 7 until 10 pm for students in grades 5 though 8. For every can or non-perishable food item students bring to donate to the Food For All Food Bank, they will receive one ballot for a draw for a party pack to Maize Quest 2004.

Canteen

MERC is looking to hire a student to operate the canteen during soccer and baseball games. Students interested can submit their resumes to MERC at Box 272, Maitland, by May 1.

Canoe Poker Run down by the old mill stream

SPENCERVILLE ­ The second annual Canoe Poker Run in support of the Spencerville Mill Foundation will hit the water of the South Nation River Saturday, May 8 at 10 am.

The course starts at O'Hagen's Bridge on County Road 18 two kilometres south of Roebuck and ends at the Spencerville Mill.

There is a registration fee. Canoes and kayaks provided courtesy of the Grenville Fish and Game Club will be available for 20 people at no additional charge. Pre-registration is required.

A canteen will be set up at the mill; prizes will be awarded.

To register or for more information about the poker run, call Bill at 658-2146.

Interest shown in gas hook up

SPENCERVILLE - Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan indicated Monday he had been talking to Union Gas about the possibility of bringing natural gas to more of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

Sloan told council he had been talking to a representative from the company about the possibility of running a line to the rural region just west of Cardinal from Empire Hanna Road to Grenville Park.

Sloan indicated numerous other areas in the township are connected, and there were quite a few interested residents within this other area.

He stated the Union Gas representative in Kingston said a study would have to be done to ensure there were enough users, but the company is interested.

Local athletes have strong showing at first track meet

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

BROCKVILLE - South Grenville athletes made their presence known during the TISS Relays Friday in Brockville.

The Giants placed 12th overall in their first track and field meet of the season with 22 points, including an 11th overall finish in the women's team with 14 points.

"For our first meet, I was quite pleased with some of our performances," said coach Mark Lewis. "We had a lot of midget kids that did well and Erika Kamenz, who has been one of our best distance runners, did great in the field events. Julie Putman had a couple solid legs in relays and Shane Pettifer and Erin Heibein came in and had strong finishes and Brittany Byrd looked pretty good in the sprints."

Lewis indicated it's still early in the year, but things have started on the right foot.

"This was a good chance to get the kids out and competing," said Lewis. "We have a lot of young kids on the team, who haven't been to big competitions and this helped to get them familiar with it."

The Giants showed they are a force to be reckoned with by having seven top three finishes.

Senior girls jumper Erin Heibein led the way for the Giants with a first place finish in the senior girls long jump with a jump of 4.4 metre and a third place finish in the senior girls triple jump with a jump of 9.08 metres.

The Giants also got strong showings from Erika Kamenz, who scored a first place finish in the midget girls long jump with a distance of 4.09 metres and second place finish in the midget girls triple jump with a distance of 8.94 metres.

Maggie Hutton finished in second place in the junior girls high jump with a height of 1.40 metres, while Shane Pettifer finished first in the senior boys discus with a throw of 38.17 metres, third in the senior boys shot put with a distance of 11.44 metres and fifth in the senior boys javelin with a throw of 38.17 metres.

Other top Giants finishes include:

Senior girls 4x100 metre relay team, seventh, 1:00.05; Senior girls 1,600 metre sprint medley team, fourth, 5:18.39; 4x200 metre senior mixed relay team, eighth, 1:55.70; open 4x1,600 metre mixed relay team, 13th, 24:55.34; Katie McKinley, fourth, midget girls high jump, 1.20 metres and sixth, midget girls long jump, 3.67 metres; Andrew McCaw, 10th, midget boys long jump, 4.34 metres and 13th, midget boys high jump, 1.40 metres, Clayton Dunnington, 12th, senior boys discus, 14.85 metres and Jon Baldwin, ninth, 2,000 metre mixed steeplechase, 7:38.82.

GCC Lions score trio of golds

The Grenville Christian College track and field team managed to capture three gold medals at the TISS Relays on its way to an 11th overall finish in the team competition.

GCC athletes Mark Farnsworth and Kevin Puddicombe tied for the gold medal in the junior boys pole vault with a height of 2.60 metres to lead the Lions, while the senior boys 1,600-metre sprint medley team also captured a gold medal with a time of 4:12.98.

The Lions finished ninth in the men's team rankings with 34 points, and 11th overall with 38 points.

Other top Lions finishes include:

Emily Sytsma, second, senior girls high jump, 1.30 metres; Brittany Steinbach, sixth, senior girls long jump, 3.71 metres; Oksana Shebatova, third, senior girls javelin, 20.80 metres; Andrew Barr, third, senior boys high jump, 1.55 metres; Alex VanVearanburg, third, junior boys pole vault, 2.15 metres and 10th, junior boys long jump, 4.29 metres; Blake Chauvin, third, open boys pole vault, 2.75 metres; Jesse Kriwox, 2,000 metres mixed steeplechase, 7:17.95 and the senior boys 4x100 metres relay team, eighth, 48.91.

SGMHA sporting brand new executive for 2004-05 season

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association underwent a big change in personnel at their annual general meeting.

Only three members of the previous SGMHA executive remained in their positions, with 16 parents emerging to take roles within the organization.

Rose Williams returns as SGMHA president, Paul LaBrash returns as treasurer and Anne Marie Polite returns as midget convener.

"We're looking forward to some of the new changes," explained Williams. "There are a lot of people with younger children stepping up and bringing in a lot of new ideas. They seem to really be eager to get started. We're really just trying to get everyone going on their jobs."

Dave Van Stralen will assume the role as vice-president, while LouAnn Hamilton is the new secretary. The rest of the executive includes: Tracey Kenney, registrar; Mike Spencer, referee-in-chief; Kelly Craig, rules and discipline; Carol Debeau, equipment; Joe Francica, hockey development; Elaine Whiteman, ways and means; Gauri Shankar, initiation convener; Shawn Lawless, novice convener; Scott Ladouceur, atom convener; Greg Kenney, peewee convener; Lisa Todd, bantam convener; John Bujacz, tournament convener and Kelly Sullivan, referee scheduler.

Despite all the new blood coming into the executive, Williams expects it to be a relatively smooth transition.

"Dave Van Stralen, who is our vice-president used to be the referee in chief a few years ago which will help," said Williams. "It's always good for a little change now and then. I think this is going to be a very productive year."

Williams explained some changes in policy and the addition of a new team could be in the works during the term of the new executive.

"Communication is a big issue for us," said Williams. "We're hoping to use the Web site and newsletter more to keep everyone informed. Also, we have to let people know that the meetings are open to anyone with a child in South Grenville Minor Hockey."

Williams also explained there are plans to add a new juvenile team to the organization, which would give players who have graduated midget another year or two to play hockey.

"We have at least 20 kids who want to play," said Williams. "The numbers are there, we're looking at getting ice time for them. The team would play in the 417 league in the Ottawa District Minor Hockey Association."

Williams indicated registration for the 2004-05 is up this year with more than 400 kids registered, but there is still room for more.

Coaching selection for the 2004-05 season will begin in May, with all coaches to be named by May 31.

Anyone still wishing to register to play hockey in South Grenville next year should contact Tracey Kenney at 925-5202.

Local girls golden at major women's hockey tourney

BRAMPTON - Two local youths came home with gold medals while competing in the world's largest girls hockey tournament last weekend in Brampton.

Algonquin's Katie Chant and South Augusta's Ali Murray brought back gold medals as they helped the Smiths Falls Cubs to the midget BB crown.

The tournament, which featured teams from across North America, included teams from as far away as Alaska, Texas and Florida.

Smiths Falls opened the tournament with a 2-1 win over Barrie and a 6-0 win over North York, before having to settle for a 0-0 draw against Leaside-Toronto to remain undefeated in round robin play.

The Cubs moved on to the tournament semi-finals, where they defeated the Florida State Under-16 2-1 before scoring a 1-0 win over Clarington to capture the title.

The Cubs outscored their opponents 11-2 over the tournament, with the South Grenville duo playing key roles for the team. Chant had three goals in the tournament and posted two assists for a total of five points before being injured in the gold medal game against Clarington. Murray played a strong defensive game throughout the tournament on the blue line; she also chipped in offensively as she tallied four assists and also hitting a post and crossbar.

Also on the team was goaltender Shelly Whitehorn of Kemptville, who recorded three shutouts at the tournament.

GCC falls short to Trojans at LGSSAA badminton meet

MAITLAND - Members of the South Grenville Giants got some valuable experience as they participated in the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association badminton championships last Tuesday and Wednesday at Grenville Christian College.

The 18-member team had a tough day as it battled through its inexperience to manage a fourth place finish.

"For 15 of our 18 kids, this was their first year of badminton," said coach Matt Robinson. "We are definitely in a rebuilding mode but gained some valuable experience."

The team of Amber Salmon and Thomas Jackson advanced to the mixed doubles semi-final, before falling short of a third place finish.

"We really have to take notice of our three graduating players Travis Irvine, Lindsay McLaughlin and Hannah Irving, who led the team," said Robinson. "For us it was really a matter of who came out at the last minute; there wasn't much of a learning curve."

South Grenville will now be starting its rookie badminton season for students in grades 9 and 10. The Giants will host a meet Tuesday, April 27 in Prescott. The LGSSAA championships for juniors are set for April 30 at Grenville Christian College.

GCC scores pair of gold medals

The host Grenville Christian College Lions team had a strong showing at LGSSAA scoring a pair of gold medals on their way to a second overall finish in the team competition.

Johnny Chang captured top spot in men's singles, while Oksana Shebetova took home gold in ladies singles.

The men's doubles team of Sean Kwak and in Soo You was defeated in the semi-finals, while Joanna Ko advanced to the ladies singles semi-final before losing.

Blues score pair of dominating victories at Peterborough Saints tournament

PETERBOROUGH - The Brockville midget Blues regional basketball team ended the weekend on a high note, rebounding from an opening round loss at the Peterborough Saints Tournament to reel off a pair of victories.

"We did really well, except our first game," said Blues coach John Doran. "In our first game our defence was great, but we just couldn't score and kept turning the ball over. From there, though, we blew through the competition by 31 and 59 points. We would just lock them down and get on a fast break and lay it in."

Doran was impressed with his team's play and ability to bounce back after a bad loss.

"Josh Parsons really had his best tournament this season," said Doran. "He had 15 in the last game, and 13 just before that. He's really on track and improving a lot, especially for a Grade 9."

The Blues opened up the tournament with their worst game of the season in a 41-30 loss to the Niagara Falls Thunder. A late surge from Tim Millar's three-point shooting was not enough to salvage the game for the Blues as they committed 25 turnovers against the Thunder's zone defence. Matt Locke ran the floor well for the Blues, while Jordan Latham finished as the Blues highest scorer with 13 points.

In their second game, the Blues rebounded from their poor showing in the opener to score a dominant 61-29 win over the Port Colbourn Lynx. All the players got onto the scoresheet in the win, while their strong team defence managed to hold the opponents to less than 30 points for the first time this season. Craig Douma and Nathaniel Hayes contributed a combined 12 points coming off the bench, while Millar and Flynn led the Blues with 10 points apiece. Latham and Graham Young had strong showings setting up the fast break.

In their final game, the Blues continued their strong play as they scored a 59-point victory over the Durham Knights. Brett Publow led the Blues strong offence as he managed to dish more than 10 assists on the fast break to quickly take control of the game. Leading 70-16 after three quarters, the team switched to a zone defence to slow down the tempo and close out an 83-24 victory. Latham led the Blues with 17 points, followed by Josh Parsons and Brett Publow with 15 and Locke with 11. John McFall and Paul Deschiffart were solid on defence throughout the weekend.

With their showing at the tournament, the Blues improved to 5-2 on the season against 'A' division opponents and 5-5 overall.

The Blues travel to Kingston to compete in a midget basketball tournament this weekend.

Good effort in losses by Islanders novice summer hockey team

CARDINAL - The Cardinal-based St. Lawrence Islanders major novice AAA summer hockey team started off its season with three tough exhibition losses.

The Islanders travelled to Long Sault March 26 and fell 7-3 to the Mustangs. Mathew Morin, Jody Sullivan and Matt Fox scored for St. Lawrence in the loss, while Dillon O'Neil, Jesse Boyd and Cole Seaton added helpers.

On March 31, St. Lawrence travelled to Kingston and dropped a 5-4 decision in a close game with the Kodiaks. Logan Warren led the Islanders with a pair of goals, while Conor Rodrigues and Fox added singles. Spencer Jonsson, Tyler Turcotte and O'Neil chipped in with helpers. Goaltenders James Brown and Dustin Lavier played strong in net.

On April 5, the Islanders played host to the Long Sault Mustangs at the Cardinal and District Community Centre and fell short in a 5-4 loss. Sullivan, Rodrigues, O'Neil and Morin scored for St. Lawrence, while Warren (2) and Fox added assists.

Other members of the Islanders are forwards Craig Kehoe, Nevin Guy and Brandon Keating, defenceman Daniel Monk, coach Dean Sullivan, assistant coaches Mark Warren and Tim Monk and trainer Steve Jonsson.

Penalty Shotz and 730 Truck stop holding Jr. B fundraiser

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers are preparing for the 2004-05 as they will be participating in a team fundraiser Saturday, May 1 at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

Penalty Shotz Sports Bar and 730 Truck Stop are putting on the event for the Rangers, with all proceeds from the event going to the Rangers.

The game will feature the Rangers taking on the Bulldog Old Tymers local team at 2 pm, with numerous door prizes awarded between periods and a 50/50 draw at Penalty Shotz at 6 pm.

Come out and support the Rangers as they look to build on last season's success.

Domville minor league seeking bantam boys to play ball

DOMVILLE - The Domville minor ball league is still searching for players to round out its rosters for the 2004 season.

The bantam boys team, which consists of boys aged 14 and 15, still needs players to fill up their roster.

The team will play at the Domville ball diamonds and face off against other regional teams in Spencerville, Roebuck, North Augusta and Algonquin.

Come out and get active for the summer and play some ball for Domville, which has a long standing tradition in the region.

Anyone interested in playing ball in Domville should contact Charlie Murray at 348-3763.

Prescott Mixed Three Pitch League holding registration

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Mixed Three Pitch League will be holding two registration sessions starting tonight.

The first session will run tonight (Wednesday, April 21) from 6 pm until 8
pm, with the second session to run from
6 pm until 8 pm on Wednesday, April 28. Both sessions will be held at the Prescott Fire Hall.

No late registrants will be accepted.

The season is slated to begin Monday, May 31 and run throughout the summer. Sign up to be part of the summer fun.

For more information, contact Paula Selleck at 925-1137 or Leanne Burton at 925-0782.

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