VOL. 174, NO. 20~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ May 19, 2004

RCMP Musical Ride brings 3,000 to fort

Ideal weather conditions help draw biggest crowd to Prescott in recent years

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The RCMP Musical Ride has shown it is still a popular attraction.

The June 2001 appearance by the world-famous musical ride at Fort Wellington was marred by rain, but a mix of sun and clouds and seasonal temperatures made for ideal conditions and a huge turnout Sunday afternoon.

Elizabeth Pilon, the fort's heritage presentation and external relations manager, indicated estimates place Sunday's attendance at almost 3,000.

"This is the biggest turnout we've had in the last four or five years," said Pilon, who added she had been expecting a crowd of about 2,000.

Prior to the musical ride's appearance, the crowd was treated to a demonstration by Canada Border Services customs officer Steve Hewett and Kinder, a chocolate Labrador that can sniff out drugs and guns and works at border crossings at Johnstown and the 1,000 Islands. The afternoon of entertainment began with a concert by the Brockville Lions Steel band.

Karen Donovan and her family made the trip from Ottawa to see the show. The family had wanted to come down to Fort Wellington for a long time.

"It's great," Donovan said about the performance and the venue.

Another family from Ottawa indicated it tries to get to Prescott and the fort a couple of times each year.

Mike Boyles, lead organizer of the show at the fort, said it was "a fantastic crowd and a perfect day." Pilon and Boyles agreed the fort provides an ideal venue for the horse show.

Some of the ride team indicated they would like to come back and see more of the town, according to Boyles. The fact that O'Reilly's, the local grocery store, held a banquet for them after the event was something the team remembers. Not every community feeds the visiting ride members, Boyles noted.

Although there is no definite return date for the musical ride, Boyles and Pilon expect there will be another return trip to Prescott in a few years.

The afternoon was sponsored by the "Prescott Home Team," including the fort, Town of Prescott, Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce, Prescott BIA, O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer, Prescott and District Lions Club, Money Concepts, Royal Bank, St. Mark Church, Prescott Rotary Club and Prescott Skateboarders.

The Canadian Tourism Commission also assisted in bringing the musical ride to Prescott.

The fort was open to self-guided tours Sunday afternoon. Pilon said about 750 people passed through the gates.

THIS WEEK

Offices take a break on holiday Monday

PRESCOTT ­ The offices of The Prescott Journal and St. Lawrence Printing will be closed Monday, May 24 for Victoria Day.

The deadline for display advertising in the May 26 edition of The Journal is Friday, May 21 at 2 pm. The deadline for classified ads is Friday at 5 pm.

Banks, government offices and many retailers will also be closed holiday Monday. There will also be no mail delivery.

Check out the car seat clinic this Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ A car and booster seat inspection clinic will take place this Saturday, May 22 from 9 am to noon at the Canadian Tire and O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer parking lot.

Trained volunteers will be on hand to check that child seats are installed properly; vehicle owners are asked to bring manufacturer's instructions, the car seat and child if possible. There will be a draw for a child booster seat and child car seat.

The clinic coincides with Safe Kids Week.

Sponsors include the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, Prescott's police and fire departments, Tim Hortons, Canadian Tire and Greater Prescott Graphic Development Corporation.

Save spots for shoppers

PRESCOTT ­ Leave main street parking spaces for the customers, downtown Prescott merchants and their employees are being told.

There has been an increase in complaints about staff parking in front of businesses on King Street. BIA Executive Director Mike Boyles notes there is plenty of parking on nearby side streets and in the clock tower lot.

Free two-hour parking is in effect weekday mornings and afternoons. The town no longer uses Commissionaires to enforce Prescott's parking bylaw.

Chamber board to meet

RIVERVIEW HEIGHTS ­ The next meeting of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce board of directors will be this Thursday, May 20 at noon at the Rothesay Restaurant.

Big water and sewer rate hikes in works

Prescott council considers increases of 50 per cent or more this summer

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Town water and sewer customers might want to brace themselves for a significant rate hike this summer.

The possibility of increases of 50 per cent or more to take effect July 1 received serious consideration by Prescott council during a special meeting last Wednesday night. At that meeting, town officials met with Environmental Strategies Limited (ESL) to discuss how the municipality will cope with a provincial requirement that the entire cost of providing water and sewer services must be borne by the users of those services.

"It's a reality night tonight," Town CAO/Clerk Robert Haller said at the start of the meeting.

ESL presented a water and sewer business plan to the previous council in July 2003. ESL has developed a model from which the town can determine rates that would generate enough money to cover the cost of everything from building a new sewage treatment plant and eventually replacing the water plant to sewer upgrades, testing and other aspects of the distribution system.

As The Journal reported last July, ESL's conclusion is that rates in Prescott would have to double to account for the tens of millions of dollars of costs in the decades to come. At that time, it was noted an average household would face an increase of about $29 per month to achieve a "break-even" scenario.

As officials played with the numbers and wrestled with the prospect of huge rate hikes, the consensus at the end of last Wednesday's meeting was to increase most water and sewer rates (flat fees and consumption) by 50 per cent as of July 1.

A similar rate hike would be considered for 2005.

No formal vote was taken; the matter was expected to be part of budget deliberations held last night. A final budget is expected sometime in the near future.

Some council members appeared to be overwhelmed by the magnitude of the proposed increases. However, they conceded last week that rate hikes are necessary in order to comply with provincial regulations and account for the costs of municipal water and sewer services.

Councillor Bob Pelda said he would be comfortable with a 50-per-cent rate hike given the circumstances facing the town.

Marvin Stemeroff of ESL noted usage will go down as rates rise. "You can pretty much bet there is going to be some conservation," he said.

The monthly fee for outside taps (which use water that is not metered) would likely increase from $10 to $15 this summer. Town officials are considering a doubling of the monthly fee next year in an effort to encourage property owners to switch to metered water for outdoor use.

Town officials also discussed the possibility of giving special consideration to Prescott Finishing, which is the largest single user of water in the municipality. Concerns were expressed last week about how the steep rate hikes could pose a threat to the company's local operations.

PRESCOTT POLICE SERVICE NEWS

Man charged in sexual assault of 13-year-old female

PRESCOTT ­ Charges have been laid in connection with two recent vehicle thefts, according to the Prescott Police Service.

An older GMC S15 and Jeep Cherokee had been stolen. The GMC was recovered, but damages led the owner to take the truck off the road; the Jeep was recovered from the St. Lawrence River near the water plant.

Richard VanTol, 19, of RR4 Spencerville was charged with three counts of possession of stolen property, theft under $5,000 and public mischief (making a false statement). A 17-year-old male from Prescott faces three counts of possession of stolen property and theft under $5,000. Stereo equipment and tools from a vehicle parked at Bremm Metal are also involved. Constable Mike Ostrander is investigating.

In all, town police investigated 71 incidents and two motor vehicle collisions during the week of May 10.

As a result of a sexual assault complaint made by a 13-year-old female May 8, police arrested a 20-year-old man May 13. He was charged with sexual assault and sexual interference. He was released and is to appear in court at a later date. The victim knew the accused; their names are not being released to protect the victim's identity. The investigating officer is Constable Moe Morrissette.

On May 10, town police received a report from a Henry Street resident involving problems with a 14-year-old female. It was learned the youth had been charged with two counts of assault earlier in the month and was released on conditions. As a result of breaking one of those conditions, the youth was arrested and charged with breach of recognizance. Constable Mike Lapensee is the investigating officer.

An overnight break-in was reported May 12 by a Boundary Street resident. His vehicle had been entered; nothing was taken, but the console was damaged. Constable Morrissette is investigating.

Also on May 12, a Spencerville resident reported a disability permit had been stolen from his vehicle. The investigator is Constable Morrissette.

CN Rail police reported May 13 that someone had entered the old railway station and damaged the premises. A damage estimate was unavailable. Constable Terry Foster is investigating.

On May 14, a South Grenville District High School student reported he had been threatened and assaulted. Constable Jon Pergunas is continuing the investigation.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences in town is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. The police/fire hall is located at Centre and Henry streets.

Student employment centre now open for the summer

PRESCOTT ­ The local employment centre for students has opened for the season.

The Human Resource Centre of Canada for Students, which is located upstairs in the Federal Building on Centre Street, is open weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Mary Ellen Hough is the summer employment officer in Prescott.

The facility serves students and employers. In addition to posting job opportunities, the centre offers job search strategies and advice on resumes and how to handle interviews. Services are provided free of charge.

For more information, call 925-2508.

The student employment centres are part of the federal government's Youth Employment Strategy.

Fewer EI claims last month

KINGSTON ­ The regional unemployment rate went up last month, but there were fewer people collecting Employment Insurance benefits.

Figures released last week by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) indicate the jobless rate for the region of Eastern Ontario that includes South Grenville rose from 7.5 per cent in March to 8.1 per cent at the end of April.

The services-producing sector ­ mainly business, building and other support services ­ reported significant reductions in employment, an HRSDC release stated.

Even with last month's increase, the unemployment rate remains lower than the 9.3 per cent reported in April 2003.

As for EI benefits, there was an 8.6-per-cent decrease in claimants in the Kingston-Pembroke area at the end of last month. The Prescott HRSDC office had 1,407 claims at the end of April compared to 1,589 at the end of March ­ a decrease of 11.5 per cent.

HRSDC notes the assessment of EI claimant data is not used to determine the unemployment rate.

The regional jobless rate is slightly higher than the national average.

Officials set Sept. 1 as target date for Prescott police transition

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ September 1 is the target date for the proposed switch from the Prescott Police Service to an Ontario Provincial Police municipal contract.

The date was noted at Prescott council's meeting Monday night. A transition team established by council earlier this month met for the first time last Tuesday.

As part of the process which will see disbandment of the municipal police department, town officers making the switch to OPP will take part in a two-week training program. Town CAO/Clerk Robert Haller said Monday training would likely be in August.

OPP human resources representatives are expected to meet with uniformed officers and civilian dispatchers this week. One of the dispatchers will be offered employment by the OPP; that competition would likely be concluded by July 1.

The town is also proceeding with a call for proposals for dispatch of Prescott fire calls after the police department is disbanded and existing dispatch is eliminated.

When The Journal arrived at the transition team meeting last Tuesday, the group indicated the meeting was not open to the public. It was noted the team would be dealing with personnel issues.

In response to questions from The Journal at the end of the council meeting Monday night, Mayor Lawn indicated he would raise the issue of open meetings at an upcoming team meeting.

Lawn said the first meeting went well as the parties felt each other out.

As for OPP contract talks, the composition of Prescott's negotiating team was approved by town council Monday night. The team consists of the mayor, CAO/clerk and Councillor Chuck Street, as well as a police association representative who will serve as an advisor.

In response to another Journal question Monday night, the mayor said there are no negotiations at this time involving the location of the Grenville County detachment at which Prescott OPP will be based. A larger facility is being sought to replace the existing building on Edward Street just south of Highway 401. Lawn said such negotiations "will likely go on" at some point.

KOPS talk

There were about 25 people in the audience at the Monday council meeting. Unlike recent meetings, there were no delegations registered to speak on the policing issue.

When Mayor Lawn asked if anyone wished to address council, Keep Our Police Services (KOPS) Chairperson Brett Todd responded by stating Haller denied the group permission to speak to council. When the mayor asked if the group wished to speak to council, Todd noted the refusal and stated he would be willing to abide by that decision. Lawn responded by stating the group is welcome to bring any new information to council's attention.

"I don't believe the offer tonight was sincere," Todd told The Journal after the meeting.

He went on to state KOPS ­ a group fighting the proposed disbandment ­ "will not be muzzled" and is not backing down. In noting he does not believe council is responding to public concerns, Todd said the final decision on policing in Prescott will come down to the Ontario Civilian Commission on Police Services.

The group is continuing to collect names on a petition of support for the Prescott Police Service.

Town talking to potential tenants

PRESCOTT ­ At least two parties have expressed an interest in the third floor of the Dibble Street municipal building, according to town officials.

The top level of the newly-renovated Prescott town hall is vacant; the municipality put out a request for proposals this spring and has been seeking tenants for the empty space.

In response to a Journal question at the end of Monday's council meeting, officials confirmed T.R. Leger School has expressed interest in occupying the third floor, which was formerly used by the local Air Cadet squadron. The Prescott campus of the Upper Canada District School Board's alternative and continuing education facility is currently housed at South Grenville District High School.

Another party has also indicated it is interested in the third floor, town officials noted Monday.

Climb aboard for Harbour Days

PRESCOTT ­ Set sail for Prescott's annual Victoria Day Weekend celebration.

Harbour Days 2004 events will take place this Saturday, May 22, Sunday, May 23 and Monday, May 24. The annual festival is sponsored by many Prescott merchants with additional support from volunteers and the Town of Prescott.

"These things are good for a town," Harbour Days organizer Mike Boyles said. The events please the crowds and help advertise the community to visitors, he noted.

Most of this year's activities take place at or within walking distance of the town's beautiful waterfront area. Saturday's events include a medieval fair in the morning and early afternoon at St. John's Anglican Church at Centre and James streets (just two blocks north of main street). Many downtown merchants will be taking part in a sidewalk sale, and there will be a United Church bake sale and Rotary luncheon at Clock Tower Square in the heart of Prescott.

On Sunday, there will be an ecumenical church service at 10 am at the Kinsmen amphitheatre beside the Sandra S. Lawn Harbour.

The amphitheatre will also play host to a performance by the Parr Christie Singers; catch the popular songs and corny jokes at 2 pm. Branch 97 of the Royal Canadian Legion will host breakfast and a chicken and rib barbecue at the Legion Hall on Henry Street, one block from main street.

Monday is for the kids and their families at Harbour Days. The Kiwanis Soap Box Derby gets under way at 10 am on George Street just north of main street. The amphitheatre area will host a teddy bear picnic, free pony rides and games and a free lunch. There are also free rides on the Grenville Fish and Game Club's pontoon boat The Little Dreamer.

Boyles noted crowds in excess of 1,000 have flocked to the waterfront on previous kids' days.

A schedule of Harbour Days events is listed in the special supplement that appeared in last week's Journal.

Dinner is served

PRESCOTT ­ The monthly Master's Hands community supper will take place next Wednesday, May 26 at Seaway Christian Church.

The free dinner for the less fortunate will be served from 5 to 6:15 pm.

Seaway Christian is located at 349 Churchill Road at Massie Drive. For more information, call 925-5840.

Walk for CHEO set for Sunday

PRESCOTT ­ There is still time to sign up for the first annual Walk for CHEO to be held Sunday, May 23 at 1 pm on Prescott's Heritage River Trail.

Proceeds from the event go to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario. Pledge sheets are available at Round 2 on King Street West.

For more information, call Cynthia at 925-3054.

SCHOOL SCENE

Boundary Street Public School: Grade 6 students completed EQAO testing last week. Grade 3 students will complete testing this week.

We will be holding our Volunteer Luncheon this Wednesday, May 26 in the gymnasium. The willingness of our volunteers to donate their time, energy and talents is greatly appreciated by students and staff.

The Grade 6 Peace-keepers continue to work hard over the lunch hour on the primary yard. They organize activities for the younger children, and they have now introduced a "games room" for grades 1-3 during Tuesday lunch recess.

Grade 5/6 students from Boundary will be attending the Racing Against Drugs Seminar in Smith Falls this Thursday. This is a program sponsored by the Lanark, Leeds and Grenville Health Unit and presented by several community agencies. The goal is to share many messages about safety, good health habits and substance use prevention.

Graduation photo re-takes are being held today.

Hot lunch this week is KFC.

St. Joseph Catholic School: Congratulations to our Good Samaritan, Nicholas Lane.

We are extremely proud of our Grade 6 students who have participated in the EQAO provincial testing!

Ten Grade 8 students left for Queen's University Tuesday afternoon. They are participating in a residential enrichment program called SEEDS. They return Friday afternoon.

There have been many Good Samaritans in the St. Joe's neighbourhood. Estelle Street has banded together a number of concerned neighbours and friends who began the challenging work of cleaning up the nature trail to the east of the school. Chuck Street has provided signs to post in this area requesting "no dumping."

Jump Rope for Heart takes place Friday, May 21. Our Junior students are excited to start jumping. Pledges have been coming in; the support is appreciated.

The St. Joe's Walk-a-thon is getting closer. Students and staff will walk on Friday, May 28 to raise funds for a new playground structure. Students will be seeking support through pledges; donations of $20 or more will be issued tax receipts.

St. Mark Catholic School: This week, our students enjoyed The Wizard of Oz performed by the Erewhon Theatre. The school council funded this fantastic performance.

Over the course of the next two weeks, our Grade 3 students will be taking part in the EQAO assessment of mathematics, reading and writing. We wish them all the best as they put forth a great effort.

Thursday, May 20 is World Catholic Education Day. On this day, we are called to remember all of the people around the world who are involved in any way with Catholic education. We are thankful for the gift of Catholic education in our Prescott community.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

We wish all of our community a wonderful Victoria Day weekend.

South Edwardsburg Public School: Please mark your calendars: our musical production of Tom Sawyer takes place next Wednesday, May 26. Donations at the door would be appreciated.

Each Thursday, our Peacekeepers are selling freezies to raise money. These fine leaders have raised money to purchase new playground toys which are available to students on a daily basis during recess.

Jump Rope for Heart begins on the 21st.

Preparations are in full swing for our Grade 8 graduation, which will take place June 21.

School council meets this evening at 6:30 in the library. Everyone is welcome.

Hot lunch today is chicken nuggets.

No shortage of issues for council

PRESCOTT ­ There are still a number of issues Prescott council needs to tackle soon, according to Mayor Robert Lawn.

Noting council's workload and how budget deliberations had fallen behind, the mayor said Monday there are four items council must address. They are the proposed subdivision at the north end of Massie Drive and Mackenzie Road, the town's purchase of the old railway station, downtown renewal and the formation of a waterfront committee.

Lawn indicated people are coming forward to reserve lots the town purchased recently from Ontario Realty Corporation.

"We need those houses," he said. Interest in the former CN and Grand Trunk station has also been expressed, according to the mayor.

Lawn said he knows it is the time of year council does not want to be spending so much time at town hall, but there is work that needs to be done.

Taking a fresh approach to spring brunch

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

Sixteen ladies enjoyed a brunch Thursday. Eggs, sausage and garden salad were followed by a fruit salad. Fresh produce made an excellent base to a meal as we start the summer season. I would like to acknowledge my helpers.

Our next lunch will be close to the end of June when the strawberries are ripe. The groups here at Walker House run all summer. Since we sometimes do day trips if the weather is fine, call 925-5300 if you have questions.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Janet White; 2nd, Barb Martin; door, Eleanor Gilligan. Fun bridge ­ Delia Seeley. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Kitty Wormington; 2nd, Brenda Humphry. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Jean Annable; 2nd, Mary Reynolds; 3rd, Jessie Shaver; door, Lou Baldwin.

Augusta council approves MERC loan

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - Augusta Township council has donated money to help ensure the survival of the Maitland Education Recreation Corporation (MERC) Hall.

At its May 10 meeting, council approved a $10,000 loan for the Maitland recreation committee to over overhead costs in order to help secure a $25,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation grant for upgrades to the kitchen at the hall.

Augusta Reeve John McCrea explained Thursday the loan is a special circumstance.

"We wanted to support the efforts of a strong community, which is quite active out there," said McCrea. "From my understanding this will help the committee be in financial position to accept a Trillium grant which is quite substantial."

Despite council approving the grant, McCrea was quick to point out it's more of a special circumstance. It's not a normal practice, but I believe it has been done in the past," explained McCrea. "It's a rare occurrence, but it really seemed to be warranted this time."

President of the MERC committee, Moira Taylor, indicated the group is pleased with council's decision.

"We're just thrilled," explained Taylor. "We got the loan and now can use it for some of our big costs such as insurance which will allow us to go through with renovations for a new kitchen. The old kitchen is going to be ripped out and we'll put in a whole new kitchen."

Taylor said things had been put on hold while trying to acquire the capital to cover overhead costs which would allow them to accept the $25,000 grant.

"It will certainly help us generate more income," said Taylor. "We'll be renting out the hall and kitchen and, with baseball back, we can run a canteen. This definitely puts us well on our way back in the right direction."

In order to secure the Trillium grant, the MERC committee was required to come up with the equivalent in cash and volunteer labour.

The MERC committee originally approached council in March requesting an interest-free loan from the township, with council requesting to study the group's financial statements and receive assurances the group has fundraising plans and volunteer support.

MERC representatives outlined the situation at a public meeting March 1. The public was filled in as to how the group fell into debt by the increasing demands on volunteers' time, surging costs and responsibilities, a loss of volunteer effort and decreasing revenue from bingos and hall rentals.

Besides running the community hall, the group has been responsible for operating the Maitland Ski Trails, Cedar Street Park, outdoor skating rinks, a baseball diamond and soccer, summer swim and parks programs.

Taylor indicated she expected work on the renovation of the kitchen to begin in July.

Fort Wellington is now open

PRESCOTT ­ The official opening of Fort Wellington's 2004 season takes place this Saturday, May 22.

The national historic site will be open daily from 10 am to 5 pm until Sept. 30. Fort Wellington will mark Queen Victoria's birthday with festivities beginning at 11 am on the holiday Monday (May 24). There will be demonstrations on the fort field by the Brockville Infantry Company (1862). There will also be special activities for the kids. Victorian-style birthday cake and punch will be served from 1:30-3:30 pm (complimentary with regular admission fee). Admission will be free when the fort takes part in Doors Open Saturday, May 29.

Township business sustains damage in blaze

MAYNARD - A family owned business suffered extensive damage in a fire last Wednesday.

Augusta firefighters were dispatched to the Euro-Deli (Prescott Incorporated) processed meats preparing business at 2318 Second Concession at 5:45 pm. Neighbours had notified the fire department about the blaze. Twenty-two firefighters, two tankers, two pumpers and an emergency van responded from Augusta. One tanker from the Elizabethtown/Kitley Fire Department was called in for assistance.

Augusta Deputy Chief Lindsay Penney indicated the fire started at the rear of the building and spread upwards and forwards through a complicated roofing system.

"It's an old family business and, as it was expanded, one roof was put over another roof," said Penney, "It made it a difficult fire to fight."

Penney added fire damage was confined to the rear of the building, but smoke and water damage throughout the building was extensive. He indicated Thursday morning the value of the loss had not been determined.

Penny said the cause of the fire was still under investigation, with the most probable cause being a faulty electrical or refrigeration compressor.

There was no one in the building during the fire, and no firefighters sustained injuries while fighting the blaze.

Wreath ceremony at Windmill Point Monday morning

WINDMILL POINT ­ A wreath-laying ceremony will take place Monday, May 24 at 11 am at the Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site just east of Prescott.

This marks the third year of the ceremony. Windmill Point is the site of a bloody and unsuccessful American invasion of Upper Canada in 1838.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"You can pretty much bet there is going to be some conservation."

Consultant Marvin Stemeroff, referring to huge water and sewer rate hikes being considered by Prescott council

Editor's Notebook

GET READY FOR A JOLT: As the summer holiday season approaches, here is what Prescott ratepayers have to look forward to: a municipal budget that is likely to include a fairly significant tax increase, the possibility of water and sewer rate hikes of 50 per cent and higher electricity costs.

Other than possibly police disbandment costs, it would be unfair to blame the current Prescott council for the town's predicament. Much of it stems from decisions made outside the community; whether it's downloading or the introduction of competition to the electricity marketplace, provincial governments past and present and, to some extent, the feds have more to do with this mess than the seven members of town council.

Unfortunately, pointing fingers does not pay the bills.

No matter how hard council tries, it will not be able to convince most residents there is nothing the town can do to avoid what will surely be an overwhelming set of rate hikes which could, in some cases, mean some less fortunate members of the community will have to make some tough choices about which bills they can afford to pay and which ones they can put off until next time. This is a very serious situation, and there might be little or nothing Prescott council is able to do to ease the financial pain that will soon be hitting very close to home.

Fortunately for council members, this is not a municipal election year.

FIRST TIME IS A CHARM: One of the reasons this community is being asked to support the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival is because of the large number of theatre-goers ­ many from Ottawa ­ who visited Prescott for the first time when they attended The Tempest last July and August. Get them here once and maybe they'll come back, the theory goes.

The same can be said for other public events such as Sunday's visit by the RCMP Musical Ride. Some of the people who spent much of the afternoon at Fort Wellington did not come from just down the street; there was a marked increase in tourist travel that day. Even if many of these visitors did not come here to shop, the fact they had a good time in Prescott could mean they will return to the Fort Town.

We cannot underestimate the value of that first visit. It is no secret business in the downtown area could use any boost it can find. With that in mind, everything from the Shakespeare festival and free Sunday evening concerts to this weekend's Harbour Days activities has a role to play in the present and future of Prescott. These events serve a much more useful purpose than keeping local residents entertained; they give the outside world a chance to discover Prescott and, hopefully, a reason to keep coming back.

Tim Ruhnke

Lack of outdoor courts, basketball games a little troubling

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS by David Dickenson

As I make my routine weekly jaunts around Prescott, Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and Augusta, I have really noticed the lack of basketball courts and fitness facilities.

I was never a great basketball player. I tried hard and really enjoyed the sport, but I was never going to play for a school team. I did, however, enjoy spending a good portion of my youth going out to the street court and joining up with a bunch of people to get a game going and getting a little exercise while having fun in the process.

Over the more than two years I have spent on the job I have not found a lot of basketball courts and fitness facilities and it boggles my mind. When I was growing up, there were so many courts around town and you could never find one that was empty. In fact, usually they were so busy that three teams had to be formed most times, with the losers going off each time. There was no court where you could walk on and just shoot around.

I would have figured with the success of the South Grenville Giants basketball teams over the past ten years, and the fact the Blazers and Blues basketball programs pulled in so many South Grenville area athletes in past years, there would be more of a desire for a court to use.

You might see an occasional single hoop around at area public schools, but now more often than not they seem to be getting replaced by those novelty odd hoop-like structures with one opening at the top and three holes in the bottom to funnel the ball back out of the hoop in different directions. I still don't get it's purpose.

Basketball always seemed to be a universal sport where both boys and girls of nearly all ages could get together on the court and play a game. There were always people as old as their late 40s playing ball with kids as young as 12 and 13 at the courts. It was a large age gap, but there was always the understanding that you guard the player of relatively comparable skill level, and the older guys gave a little leeway to the younger kids (though not much) to let them at least get off a shot.

There were never many problems at the court; not everyone always got along, but it was just a game and everyone understood that. If things escalated, everyone kept them apart and got them off the court to cool off. When both would return, they would just jump back into the fray, no harm, no foul, and just play some ball.

Streetball seems to be dead these days with so many other interests such as soccer, skateboarding, summer hockey, baseball and swimming.

It almost seems a shame when I drive by one of the few courts still around the area and see it empty. It just feels wrong.

Research confirms lead contamination in river near Maitland

FROM THE ARCHIVES

May 17, 1934

* Mrs. Jos. Frattura announces the re-opening of the Venetian Sweet confectionery store and soda fountain. A line of selected fruit will be handled at all times.

* Notice: All persons loitering on street corners and all owners of dogs allowing same to run at large are hereby notified they will be prosecuted if this practice is continued. Police Order.

May 20, 1964

* Three Prescott Air Cadets have been selected for special recognition by the Air Cadet League of Canada. Richard Lapensee has been awarded an exchange visit to the United Kingdom. Alan Littlejohn will attend a seven-week senior leaders' course at Camp Borden, and Paul Van Luit was awarded a flying training scholarship.

* Lynda Harmaty was chosen queen of the Apple Blossom spring prom at SGDHS.

May 15, 1974

* Father W.F. Healey, rector of the Church of St. Mark the Evangelist for eight years, is leaving this parish for Erinsville.

He is to be succeeded here by Father Peter Murphy, who was curate at St. Mark's during the pastorate of the late Father M.E. James.

May 16, 1984

* After nearly a year of research, federal government scientists have confirmed the findings of a study released last summer that showed high levels of lead in numerous species of fish found in the St. Lawrence River near Maitland. The source of lead is believed to be Maitland's DuPont plant from its production of a gasoline additive designed to prevent knock in automobile engines.

According to the Ministry of the Environment, the waste treatment system at DuPont is designed to remove excess lead, and plant Manager Milt May said last year the company has never been warned there may be a problem with contamination.

* The long and faithful stewardship of Goldie Connell to the Maynard Women's Institute was recognized by her fellow members when she was presented with a life membership.

Prescott's public water supply did not spring up overnight

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

The following is an excerpt from Morrises' History of Prescott, 1800-2000

Prescott's first water supply, for residents not fortunate enough to have one of the few private household interior or exterior wells, consisted of wells and pumps scattered throughout the town. Early town minute books make several references to the existence of the water pumps. The first reference to a public water supply is found on July 17, 1840. The bylaw declares: "that no person or persons shall be allowed to take water from the town pump, except for drinking or culinary purposes, or to pump out water on the ground, nor to deface, despoil or in any way injure the said pump under such penalty for each offence as the Board may think fit to impose".

The locations of the wells were sometimes revealed in other Board business. At an October 21, 1848 meeting, members "ordered that George Scott and William Hillyard be allowed sufficient plank and nails for the purpose of planking a sidewalk on Henry Street commencing at the town pump and running along said street to Mrs. Murphy's". At a July 14, 1851 meeting, council "agreed to advertise for tenders to sink a well as near as may be practicable to the north west corner of Mrs. Hooker's stone wall, south side of Park St. and east side of Edward St., at a certain amount per foot, until there is a sufficiency of water, say three feet..." Andrew Barnes submitted the lowest tender at 13 shillings, seven and a half pence per foot for sinking the well. Barnes was paid seven pounds, 10 shillings on August 25, 1851, but on December 2, the council felt "that a committee of the whole meet and examine the public well". A December 26 report "respecting a well on Edward St. states that the said well is found to be useless and that Andrew Barnes is not entitled to any further pay... The committee further recommended that the said well be the first work done in the ensuing spring".

The January 17, 1852 minute book says "Andrew Barnes... stating that the well is made fully sufficient since the last examination...and that he will give good and sufficient security that the said well will continue with plenty of water to answer the purposes required... We under these circumstances have agreed to pay him..." Ed McNally makes reference to this well in his story Up and Down Main Street in 1896, reprinted in this book. The well the McNally family used at the corner of Wood and Florence streets was sunk in June, 1891, with the corporation agreeing to pay $30 toward the cost.

East ward residents had become upset with the state of the water supply, and on March 18, 1857, petitioned council for improvements. Filed by Fulford B. Fielde (a veteran of the Battle of Waterloo who was stationed for a time at Fort Wellington and who built The Ark on Park St.) and nine others, the petition states: "Your petitioners beg permission to solicit the attention of your honourable council to the serious inconvenience and actual suffering under which many of the inhabitants of this town particularly the poorer classes have been labouring from the want of a sufficient supply of water. Your petitioners feel...it must be sufficiently obvious to anyone on the slightest reflection that there is nothing more necessary for the comfort, convenience and health of the inhabitants than an adequate supply of water and feeling assured therefore that there can be no object for which a proportion of the public funds can be more appropriately and legitimately employed. Your petitioners can not but indulge the hope that your honourable council will take their petition into your favourable consideration and take the necessary steps to remedy this really serious evil..." The pathmaster was requested by council "to examine the present state of the wells and pumps on corners of Henry and Park streets", and on July 30, 1857, an order was given for two new pumps.

A well was also to be included in the construction work for the extension of St. Lawrence St. to the new Grand Trunk Railway Station. At an April 12, 1857 meeting, council agreed to "pay half the expense of macadamizing and finishing St. Lawrence St. to the rail road depot. Also half the expense of moving the buildings, making a well and finishing". It was reported "the public are daily suffering a great inconvenience for the want of better and more convenient access to the Grand Trunk Railroad, and a new road would "remedy the evil". The council paid out 435 pounds on August 10, 1857 for constructing St. Lawrence St.

In May, 1863, council ordered the Henry St. well at the corner of Centre St. to be cleaned out "and that a pump be placed therein for the accommodation of the public". However, Mr. Palmer reported back to council "that it was impossible to make the well in Henry St. good for anything on account of the surface water running into it".

By September, 1894, notices were placed at each town well forbidding their use for the watering of horses or cattle, and the Chief of Police was to enforce the council's resolution.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Community should drop it already and move on to more pressing issues

The Editor;

After returning to this town after being away for eight months at university, I can honestly say I have never been more ready to pack up and leave it again. I have come home to the normal bickering between town and officials and public activists over yet another contentious issue. First it was garbage bags, then town hall, and now it is the policing issue.

I never really considered the proposed policing switch to OPP as much of an issue, so I brushed it off as more town propaganda, until now. I still do not understand how the switch could rustle up such a fuss since, from what I have read, the town police (who look forward to better training, technology, resources and back-up) were all for their new OPP home. I am now utterly sick about reading volume after volume of The Prescott Journal only hearing about the policing issue.

Sure, there are risks involved in this venture with possible price increases and (although highly unlikely) decrease in police services, but that sort of risk is apparent in any decision this big for any small town. Maybe if a support group like KOPS was formed at the beginning of the proposed policing switch, the outcome would have been different, but the mayor and councillors have made their decision and it is time for the rest of the town to cope, if they have not already.

Let's face it; it does not take a nuclear engineer to see the constant harassing and needless flack town council has received over this issue. What has been done is done, so drop it already and let them move on to more pressing issues.

It also seems to me like the policing issue can be considered small fries when compared to the current commercial and industrial development in Prescott, or should I say lack thereof. Here is an idea: form a group of public representatives hell-bent on bringing back the industrial development of Prescott, rather than lobbying against town decisions. But, you say, who am I to criticize? Well, I am one of the many of today's youth residing in Prescott and area who are fed up with having to travel to Cornwall, Kingston or Ottawa for any form of youthful society.

Besides, if issues like these aren't addressed at some point in Prescott's immediate future, in about 40-50 years there may not be enough residents in Prescott for Prescott to be considered a town. What would be the point in having town police then?

Cole Roberts
Prescott

ATV club to be commended for pitching in

The Editor;

I would like the residents of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Township to be made aware of a good deed that has been done in our community.

The Johnstown ATV Club rallied together on Sunday, May 2 and donated their time to pick up the garbage out of the ditches on Rooney Road. The club's members, out of respect for our community, took upon this unselfish gesture.

Often, ATV/snowmobile clubs get a bad reputation among residents and landowners, but this is one club that should be recognized for their effort to keep the land that they use ­ and the sights we all see ­ garbage free!

I understand there are other such outings in the works for more clean-ups in various parts of the township.

I would like to commend these people for all their efforts. Thank you.

Lorrie Moulton

Town police supporters will not be muzzled

The Editor;

Prescott CAO Robert Haller has denied Keep Our Police Services (KOPS) delegation privileges at Prescott town council meetings. It seems apparent to our committee that Mayor Robert Lawn and councillors Jo-Anne Beckstead, Suzanne Dodge, and Robert Pelda do not want to answer questions about the disbandment of the Prescott Police Service in council chambers.

But that does not mean KOPS will be easily muzzled. Instead, we would like to outline the questions that we planned to ask of council during its Monday, May 17 meeting. The OPP Four need to provide solid answers to the following questions:

a. Who pays the $200,000-plus cost of disbandment? Why isn't council being up front and telling us what disbandment will mean to our taxes this year?

b. Is the town planning on slashing essential services in order to keep the disbandment tax increase down? If so, what can we expect to see cut?

c. How can the town enter into an OPP contract in full knowledge the current Edward Street headquarters is already operating at almost 200 per cent of its personnel capacity?

d. How can the town say that it will have dedicated OPP officers patrolling the town, knowing the overcrowded nature of the Edward St. headquarters and the near certainty that duties will be mingled?

e. How can the town enter into an OPP contract knowing that the province ­ currently struggling with an $8-billion deficit ­ has no plans or funding available to replace the Edward Street headquarters?

f. How can the town enter into an OPP contract when this facility will almost certainly be moved out of Prescott, to a more centralized location in the coverage region, if and when a new headquarters building is constructed?

g. How does the dedicated sergeant OPP contract option make sense, when there is a very real chance that the local OPP base will eventually be moved out of town?

h. Is Mayor Lawn aware that a significant number, perhaps even a majority, of Prescott's current police officers are planning to transfer out of town to other OPP detachments or retire very soon after disbandment?

i. Why is the town closing the OPP transition process to the public and the media? Members of KOPS believe Prescott council needs to answer these questions now. There are far too many question marks about community safety and the future of policing in Prescott to proceed with this reckless disbandment plan.

Brett Todd, KOPS Chair
Elizabeth Garswood, Vice-Chair

Local Idol to be shown on Channel 10

BROCKVILLE ­ A mother and daughter from Brockville were the winners of the first Leeds and Grenville Idol competition.

Carla Vanderhelm won the senior category, and Jessica Vanderhelm took home junior honours at the event held Thursday night at the Brockville Arts Centre.

The competition, a fundraiser for the United Way, also featured many singers from South Grenville.

The junior Idol competition will be aired Monday, May 24 at 8 pm and continued Tuesday, May 25 at 8 am on Cogeco Cable 10. The community channel will also broadcast the senior Idol Thursday, May 27 at 8 pm and Friday, May 28 at 8 am.

Help VON celebrate 91 years

PRESCOTT ­ South Grenville residents are being invited to help celebrate VON Week in Canada.

The Victorian Order of Nurses made its first local home nursing visit 91 years ago. Since then, the organization has offered a range of health and community services.

The VON office in the Prescott Medical Centre on King Street will host a drop-in this Thursday, May 20 from 1 to 3 pm. The public is invited to have a piece of cake and share VON memories as well as hopes for the present and future.

Casco truck depot at 730 Truck Stop discussed by township council

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - It was reported at Monday's regular council meeting in Spencerville that council had received a severance proposal for a Laidlaw transport depot next to the 730 Truck Stop.

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan reported to council Bill Johnston of Laidlaw and Bob Lodge of the 730 Truck Stop had attended the May 10 Planning Advisory Council and discussed a proposed severance at the 730 Truck Stop property.

The proposal would allow for the development of a transport depot by Laidlaw Trucking, which now owns the contract for Casco's fleet of trucks.

If approved, the proposal would permit trucks for Casco to be marshaled at the new truck depot instead of lining up in Cardinal.

Sloan indicated a new depot could help with some of the traffic congestion in the village due to the trucking route.

"Most of the trucks which are stored at Casco now would be stored at the new lot at the 730," said Sloan.

"It would free up some room so the trucks aren't parked back up through the village."

Ward One Councillor Hugh Cameron stated he would be definitely in favour of such a project, while Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated this could be a partial solution to the problem of transports in the village.

Sloan explained nothing had yet been decided on the proposal.

"We were just presented with the drawing," said Sloan. "It will still need to go back to planning for more discussion."

Sloan added, "This might be a way to help alleviate some of the truck problems we've had with them backing up past Garry Tracey's place and other homes on John Street."

Taylor indicated she hopes this will lead to a decision which will help fix a concern in the village.

Casco strike could be a long one

Unionized staff hit the picket line Friday; unknown when negotiations will resume

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - There appears to be no end in sight for the more than 160 hourly workers who went on strike at Casco's Cardinal plant Friday.

Workers hit the picket line at noon at the processing plant which still produces corn syrup as part of the U.S.-based Corn Products Organization.

United Food Processors Union-CAW Local 483 President Kevin Patrick indicated the strike had been put off until Friday as an act of good will to the company.

"Our two-year contract expired April 15, but we agreed to extend the deadline past that," said Patrick. "There was a new project which was thought to be coming here so we agreed to go outside our union policy and look at a four year contract if the project came here. The project went to London. We thought we were doing this as an offer of good faith to the company so the project could come here, but we ended up on strike without an offer."

Patrick explained 93 per cent of the union had voted in favour of going on strike if it was deemed necessary.

"We haven't talked to the company since Friday night at 8 pm," Patrick said Monday. "It didn't really go well. We presented them with a final offer and had to modify it four times and then we got three different final offers from them. Each was substantially different from the other ones. Each of the offers were subject to our recommendation that the offer be approved. If the union didn't endorse it, then there was no offer and we said we couldn't recommend it."

Patrick said the union has been standing its ground on the picket line without incident.

"We have a 10-minute hold-up on vehicles," explained Patrick. "After the 10 minutes has passed, everyone moves aside to let them go through. Also, they are not allowing the staff right now to go home and we are preparing a letter to the company saying that we will allow those who normally go home to their families and children to leave twice a day unimpeded. We would guarantee their safety. We have to hear back about what times they would be coming and going and if they are going to allow it."

The union indicated it has no clue how long things are going to drag out, but there are some serious issues that need to be worked out.

"One of the major issues for us is time off the job," said Patrick. "We have people who work for a month straight without a day off. Also, we have other issues we would like to get resolved. Over the past two years, both sides have had concerns and we don't want to always be fighting with them. Right now, we have nothing; all we have is what we had before we went out."

Patrick indicated there is still a lot of uncertainty as to when a deal could be worked out.

"Right now, there are no talks planned and we have no idea when this will end. We don't even have an offer to look at. We're not asking for more than usual."

After repeated attempts to contact management, The Journal was told by Casco security Monday that management would be advised of the requests, but there was no comment at the time.

Officials identify potential budget cuts

SPENCERVILLE - Township council discussed a number of possible budget cuts at Monday's regular meeting in Spencerville.

Council brought forth the minutes of the May 12 committee-of-the-whole meeting in Johnstown at which numerous budget reductions were recommended.

At the May 12 meeting, Library Board Chair David Lohnes presented his board's budget to council, which included a request for a $10,000 contingency fund. The fund would be used for the replacements of the library's computers when it was needed. Council suggested the fund could be reduced to $3,000, which could still leave the board some flexibility.

Discussion on the budget continued Monday. Council recommended to delay the amount for paving the Fire Hall Subdivision until 2005, as well as the purchase of three pick-up trucks under the available zero per cent financing arrangements over a four-year period, removing the purchase of a new pumper truck for the fire department, but leaving $25,000 towards the purchase in a future year, reducing the budgeted work on the Glen Smail Road to $300,000. Department heads are being asked to review their operating budgets with a goal of reducing required funds by three per cent.

Council accepted the minutes of the meeting, but stated the recommendations from the meeting wouldn't be accepted but rather be held over to budget deliberations.

"I have a concern that if we accept them as written then it would be etched in stone," explained Mayor Peggy Taylor. "It wouldn't be the way to go on such a momentous project. We need the ability to be flexible."

Trailer price hike questioned

SPENCERVILLE - Township council expressed outrage Monday after receiving a letter from Tom Jarvis Welding, Fabricating, General Repairs and Accessories outlining a large increase in the cost of a new trailer.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald told council the township had received a letter informing them of a price hike due to rising costs.

"The trailer has previously been approved," said McDonald, "but because of the rising price of steel between the quote and the order the quote went up $1,900. Steel went up about 20-25 per cent in that time frame."

Council had received the quote in late February for just over $7,200 and, after getting pre-budget approval, ordered the trailer in April.

Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey expressed his outrage over the dramatic increase. "There can't be that much steel in it," said Noccey. "There is no way an $8,000 trailer is going to increase $2,000 just because of steel."

Ward One Councillor Hugh Cameron explained he remembered the quote originally coming in at a little more than $7,200, but then getting a second quote reduced to $7,200 even.

"There is no way it should go up that much," said Cameron. "They would have to buy the axles already made, and that would be most of the steel."

Noccey indicated that not only the steel charge went up, but the labour charge on the trailer also increased.

"Because steel goes up in price doesn't make it any harder to work with," said Noccey. "Everything on this quote has gone up: paint, wood, everything. They've taken the opportunity to increase the price of everything. There is no way. They are trying to take advantage of us."

After comparing the original quote with the new quote, council decided to get McDonald to go back and see if something could be arranged or if the order had been changed, resulting in the increase.

The trailer was ordered for the recreation department to replace the old lawn mower trailer, which had been stolen.

Volunteers come through on Rotary Rose Day

By Astrid Strader, Coordinator, Horticulturist and Garden Designer

It's not everyone's cup of tea ­ to get down and dirty ­ but there we all were and lovin' it.

Rotary Rose Day was a complete success. Rotary Club volunteers, along with Prescott Blossoms volunteers, joined forces to plant at the waterfront and sell plants at the Farmers Market.

For instance, we planted a new border of shrub roses at the Heritage River Trail parking lot. And just north of the marina, we built and planted a berm to hide the unsightly water-pumping station (which often becomes a garbage dumping area in summer).

This prime location will grow into a colourful corner thanks to the contributions made by the town and our volunteers: Candy Alexander, Nancy and John McFarland, Kerlyn Snelling, Barb Martin, Randy Pelehos, Margie Barton, Richard Perrin, Lia McConnell and all the moral supporters.

It's great to have the supply of plants to choose from in our town; often in the past, you'd have to go to Brockville to find a good selection. So that means we'll have more choice when we plant the downtown planters in the next week.

We'll also be back at the Prescott Farmers Market for one more day of selling plants ­ so if you've got any extra plants, consider bringing them to us on Saturday morning. All the money raised goes to buying more special plants for our parks ­ mostly colourful shrubs that contribute four-season interest.

One of these is the pagoda dogwood or Cornus alternifolia. This small tree was planted at the municipal building where native and period plants are featured. The name applies to how it forms tiers with its horizontal branching habit ­ looking very "Japanese" in style. It prefers some shade and can grow about 20' high and wide, making it ideal for a small yard. A slow grower, with handsome purplish bark, it starts out with the most elegant leaves, dusted with purple and then gets fragrant white flowers in June with bluish-black berries to follow. In fall, it turns a reddish purple.

We acknowledge Brockville Blossoms, a project modelled after our successful Prescott Blossoms. Yicela Pruner, Devin Russel, Perry Slater and David Stanzel came for two days to complete the planting and mulching of the municipal building frontage.

Jamie Lindsay among art show participants

MERRICKVILLE ­ A young Shanly-area artist has been offered a special spot in this weekend's Merrickville Fine Art Festival.

Jamie Lindsay, a Grade 11 student at South Grenville District High School, will be among 40 artists from Ontario and Quebec whose works will be on display this Saturday, Sunday and Monday (May 22-24) from 10 am to 5 pm at the Merrickville Community Centre.

The juried exhibit and sale will include paintings, photographs, sculptures and computer art.

Lindsay does pencil sketches ­ especially portraits ­ in addition to working with watercolours and acrylics.

For more information about the event, call (613) 269-2618 or visit www.merrickvillefineartfest.org.

South Grenville qualifies for EOSSAA track and field

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants track and field team had a strong showing with 14 top three finishes at the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association championships last Wednesday at Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville.

South Grenville managed to qualify 15 athletes and one relay team for the Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association championships yesterday and today (Wednesday) at the Terry Fox Athletic Centre in Ottawa.

Erika Kamenz led the Giants with a first place finish in the midget girls long jump, a second place finish in the midget girls triple jump and a fourth place finish in the midget girls 100-metres in the meet, despite suffering from a quadriceps injury.

The Giants also managed a strong showing from junior girls high jumper Maggie Hutton who scored a second place finish, Shane Pettifer with a pair of gold medals in the senior boys shot put and discus competitions as well as Julie Putman, who scored a second place finish in the senior girls 3,000-metres and fourth place finishes in the senior girls 800-metre and 1,500-metre races.

Grenville Christian College also had a strong meet, advancing nine athletes and two relay teams to the EOSSAA championships.

Jesse Kriwox led the Lions with two first place finishes in the junior boys 800-metre and the 1,500-metre races as well as a second place finish in the junior boys 3,000-metres.

GCC also managed a strong showing the pole vault competition as Lions athletes swept the podium in the junior boys competition with Mark Farnsworth capturing the gold, followed by teammates Alex VanVaerenberg in second and Kevin Puddicombe in third.

Other top South Grenville finishes include:

Erika Kamenz, first, midget girls long jump, 4.46m; second, midget girls triple jump, 9.55m; fourth, midget girls 100-metres, 14.15

Katie McKinley, third, midget girls 80-metre hurdles, 17.09; 10th, midget girls long jump, 3.57m

Amanda Smith, fourth, junior girls 1,500-metres, 6:46.70

Maggie Hutton, second, junior girls high jump, 1.40m

Brittany Byrd, third, senior girls 100-metres, 13.10; sixth, senior girls 200-metres, 29.80

Erin Heibein, third, senior girls triple jump, 8.95m; fourth, senior girls long jump, 4.25m; sixth, senior girls 100-metres, 14.00

Kristina Godwin, second, senior girls 100-metre hurdles, 19.56; eighth, senior girls 100-metres, 15.39

Julie Putman, second, senior girls 3,000-metres, 12:02.30; fourth, senior girls 800-metres, 2:49.00; fourth, senior girls-1,500-metres, 5:45.10

Mike Froom, fourth, midget boys long jump, 4.87m; fifth, midget boys 100-metres, 12.95

Anthony Merkley, sixth, midget boys long jump, 4.84m; seventh, midget boys 100-metres, 13.03; eighth, midget boys 200-metres, 27.21

Braeden Elliott, third, midget boys 800-metres, 2:25.00; fourth, midget boys 1,500-metres, 5:00.30

Joel Haystead, fourth, midget boys high jump, 1.55m; seventh, midget boys triple jump, 9.90m

Andrew McCaw, third, midget boys long jump, 4.91m; fourth, midget boys triple jump, 10.15m

Clayton Dunnington, ninth, midget boys javelin, 25.75m; tenth, midget boys discus, 18.23m

Nick Thornhill, fourth, junior boys 200-metres, 25.01; fifth, junior boys 100-metres, 11.81

Sam Whitley, fifth, junior boys high jump, 1.55m; sixth, junior boys long jump, 5.06m

Jon Baldwin, third, open boys 2,000-metre steeplechase, 7:08.12; fifth, senior boys 1,500-metres, 4:46.90

Shane Pettifer, first, senior boys shot put, 13.07m; first senior boys discus, 39.74m; fifth, senior boys javelin, 35.37m

Chase Holmes, 12th, senior boys discus, 21.28m; 13th, senior boys shot put, 9.38m

South Grenville senior girls 4x100-metre relay team, third, 1:01.49

Other top GCC finishes include:

Natasha Plosaj, second, midget girls 100-metres, 13.51; third, midget girls 200-metres, 29.69

Oksana Shebetova, first, senior girls javelin, 28.85m; eighth, senior girls shot put, 7.45m

Korbin Smith, ninth; midget boys discus, 19.15m; tenth, midget boys shot put, 8.81m

Peter Chui, third, junior boys 100-metres, 11.59

Jesse Kriwox, first, junior boys 800-metres, 2:12.75; first, junior boys 1,500-metres, 4:39.00; second, junior boys 3,000-metres, 10:39.40

Alex VanVaerenberg, second, junior boys pole vault, 2.80m; sixth, junior boys high jump, 1.55m

Mark Farnsworth, first, junior boys pole vault, 3.00m

Kevin Puddicombe, third, junior boys pole vault, 1.75m; seventh, junior boys long jump, 4.48m

Kelvin Li, seventh, junior boys discus, 23.90m; eighth, junior boys shot put, 8.65m

Alex Miragliotta, seventh, junior boys javelin, 16.64m

Dan Lim, eighth, senior boys 200-metres, 26.11; ninth, senior boys 100-metres, 12.05

Alvin Ng, 12th, senior boys 100-metres, 12.53

Jimmy Locke, third, senior boys 110-metre hurdles, 18.35m; ninth, senior boys 200-metres, 26.27

James Launder, seventh, senior boys 400-metres, 1:05.57

Breet Lee, 10th, senior boys 1,500-metres, 5:15.80; 13th, senior boys long jump, 5.08m

Andrew Barr, sixth, senior boys high jump, 1.55m

Blake Chauvin, fourth, senior boys pole vault, 3.25m

Sean Kwak, 12th, senior boys long jump, 5.23m

Johnny Chang, ninth, senior boys javelin, 28.93m; 12th, senior boys shot put, 9.74m

Oliver Breck, 12th, senior boys javelin, 27.27m

GCC, fourth, senior boys 4x100-metre relay, 48.24

GCC, fourth, senior boys 4x400-metre relay, 3:54.89

Hawaiian hoops tournament excites senior girls team

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Fourteen girls will be getting a chance for the experience of a lifetime as the South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team will be travelling to Hawaii in December to compete in a tournament.

Giants coach Joe Latham indicated the team has been accepted into the 12th annual Palama Settlement Classic from December 13-22 in Honolulu.

Latham explained that, periodically through the year, Encore Sports Tours Limited from London sends out a flyer on different sports tours throughout the year, and he decided to take a serious look at it.

"We have such a motivated group of girls and lots of last year's team is coming back," said Latham. "I thought I would bring it up with them and the parents. I showed them the options and asked where they wanted to go and they saw Hawaii and they jumped on it and wouldn't let it go."

Giants forward Shannon Campbell couldn't say enough about how much the team was looking forward to the trip.

"We're really excited," explained Campbell. "It's the experience of a lifetime. We had choices of places like Cuba, but Joe wanted to give us a chance to see a different culture. It's not so much the tournament we're looking forward to, but the chance to see the culture and get the experience."

Giants point guard Sam Joudoin added, "We're really looking forward to it. Playing in the tournament, going to the beach, going shopping and I want to go parasailing. We had the option of California, but it was definitely Hawaii. The whole team wanted to go."

Despite all the fun in the sun, the girls are also looking forward to getting a chance for stiff competition.

"There's going to be four local teams and four from Canada," explained Giants player Becky Graham. "It should be tough games, but it should be fun. We'll have lots to keep us busy between the games and going to things like luaus."

At the tournament the girls will participate in the eight-team tournament, which will feature four Hawaiian club teams from the Kalakaua Basketball Club as well as two teams from the Vancouver area and another from Fort St. John, BC.

Latham is looking forward to the trip and expects it to be an experience the whole team won't soon forget.

"The competition should be pretty stiff with all the club teams," said Latham, "but basketball is only a part of it. I want the girls to get a chance to experience everything while they're over there."

Latham indicated 14 girls will be making the trek, as well as about 14 parents who will be accompanying them on the journey.

Latham explained this is not the first time South Grenville has done this kind of trip.

"Norrie (Spence) did it about ten years ago with one of the teams," said Latham. "They all came back and said how it was the experience of a lifetime. We want that experience and are starting to think about making a trip like this every other year or so."

For the 14 girls on the team, the total cost of the trip is estimated to be about $25,000, which the parents and students have agreed to cover.

The team will also be holding numerous fundraising activities until their trip to help offset the cost of such a large trip.

"We're going to be pretty busy with all the things we're planning," said Latham. "The girls and the parents have all agreed to help out with this, and we're going to start the (May 24) long weekend with a garage sale (Saturday, May 22) at the high school from 8 am until noon and a beef barbecue from 3 pm until 6 pm, with tickets available at the door. We have a dedicated group of parents who will be helping out in their free time with the fundraising."

PDSA soccer season under way

PRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Soccer Association's 2004 season kicked off Monday.

Under-16 and Under-12 age groups started Monday, while Under-10, Under-8 and Under-6 age divisions started yesterday (Tuesday).

PDSA Vice-President Rob Carr indicated the organization has been busy preparing for the eagerly awaited season.

"We spent the weekend over at the fields getting the fields marked and the mesh on the nets to be ready to go," Carr told The Journal Monday. "We're still putting some final touches like numbering the balls."

Carr indicated that coaches for all divisions should have already contacted parents about which team they are on.

"They already should have called but, unfortunately, occasionally a player is missed," said Carr. "We try not to, but occasionally it happens; it's human nature. We should have all the teams and schedules up on the big board at the fields and parents could always call myself of Leanne Burton if they don't know their team yet."

Carr indicated the league wasn't currently looking at registering any more children, but could take on a few more kids after a final tally has been made.

"We don't want too many kids on a team," explained Carr. "We don't want them to be doing too much sitting; we would rather see the kids out on the field playing."

All teams will now play at South Grenville District High School after the PDSA was able to make more room to accommodate the Under-6 program which was previously slated to take place at the Kriska fields.

"This should make it easier for parents with multiple kids playing soccer," said Carr. "Things might be a little busier at the high school, but we think the parents will appreciate staying at one spot walking around instead of having to drive between the Kriska fields and the high school."

Carr indicated for the first week of soccer the Under-6 teams would be at the Kriska fields, with all other games being held at the high school.

The Under-16 teams will play Mondays and Wednesdays at 6 pm and 7 pm, while the Under-12 teams will play Mondays and Wednesdays at 6 pm.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Under-8 teams will play at 6 pm, while the Under-10 teams will play at 7 pm.

The Under-6 teams will play on Tuesdays at 6 pm.

For more information on the PDSA visit the league's Web site at www.leedsandgrenville.com
/PDSA or call Rob Carr at 925-1396 or Leanne Burton at 925-0782.

SGMHA NEWS By Lou Anne Hamilton

Attention South Grenville Minor Hockey parents, players and fans: check out this space each week for news and important dates.

Another successful hockey season has wrapped up, and we are already busy planning for next year.

It's time to clean out the hockey bags; sweaters and
goal equipment returns will be held Wednesday, May 19 at 7 pm upstairs at the Prescott arena.

There is still time to register for the 2004-05 season. Anyone wishing to register should contact Tracey Kenney at 925-5202 with your information.

Coaches will be selected over the next two weeks and advised accordingly. Anyone wishing to coach a house league team next season is asked to call Joe Francica at 925-2730.

Mixed darts league hands out awards

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Legion Mixed Darts League handed out its hardware at the annual awards dinner Friday at the Prescott Legion.

Team #8 "Not Too Choosey," consisting of Bob Hutt, Heather Cumming, Tim McKinnon and Marilyne Fernell, was awarded top spot in the playoffs with 14 games won, followed by "Leftovers" Betty Bissonnette, Anna Wright, David Haynes and Mary Allen in second place with 13 games won and "Front Runners" Tom Rae, Rose Phillips, Allan Kelso and Greta Sherman finishing in third place with 13 games won.

"Bob's Bulls-Eyes," consisting of Bob Gaudet, Veronica King, Ron Warren and Monique Bedard, finished last with two-and-a-half games won in the playoffs.

Heather Cumming and Bonnie Hart had the most games won by a woman in the playoffs with six, while David Haynes had the most games won by a man with nine.

Rae has the men's playoff high score with a 145, while Brown has the ladies playoff high score with a 121.

Hutt has the high three-dart finish in the playoff for men with a 121, while Cumming has the ladies high three-dart finish with an 82.

Isabel Arcand has the most bullseyes in the playoffs with three.

Susie Visser had the most games won by a spare with two.

Haynes had the high score of the playoffs with 180.

The team of Front Runners finished first in the regular season with 163.5 points, followed by Leftovers with 138.5 point and Not Too Choosey with 122 points.

Bob's Bulls-Eyes finished in last place in the regular season with 86.5 points.

Tom Rae had the most games won by a man in the regular season with 107, while Anita Rae had the most games won by a woman with 47.

Ross King had the men's high score with a 174, while Bissonnette had the ladies high score with a 144.

Tom Rae had the regular season high three-dart finish with a 112, while Anita Rae had the ladies high three-dart finish with 93.

Fern Bedard had the most bullseyes with 22, followed by Marie Brown with 20. They won the inaugural Tom Beach Memorial Trophy.

John Marchant won the most games by a male spare in the regular season with 19, while Susie Visser had the most games won by a woman spare with 13.

Susie Visser had the ladies high score for spares with 160, while John Martineau, Mike McIlvenna and John Marchand had the high score for men's spares with 140.

David Hayens and Tom Rae had the high score for the regular season with 180.

SG finishes regular season in first place with 8-1 record

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants senior girls soccer team capped off
the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association regular season in top spot.

The Giants battled through the competition to post an 8-1 record to capture first place and clinch home field advantage throughout the playoffs.

On Thursday, the Giants played their final regular season game of the season scoring a 2-1 win over the Brockville Collegiate Institute (BCI) Red Rams.

Miranda Kenney and Sam Joudoin scored for the Giants.

Coach Scott Baird was happy to see his team win the game, but wasn't thrilled with South Grenville's performance.

"We played an okay game against BCI," said Baird. "They were already eliminated, so they had nothing to lose, but it was a win."

South Grenville also competed in the Thousand Islands Cup soccer tournament hosted by Grenville Christian College
and St. Mary on the weekend. South Grenville advanced to
the semi-final before being eliminated by eventual tournament champions, the Rideau Lions.

The Giants opened up the tournament with a 3-0 victory over the Grenville Christian College Lions, before losing in penalty kicks to Tagwi after settling for a 2-2 draw.

The Giants advanced to the semi-final and led 1-0 until the final ten minutes of the game, when Rideau struck for two unanswered goals to squeak out the victory.

"We were out there to have fun," explained Baird. "The girls have never really had a tournament to compete in before, and the girls really seemed to have a good time."

The Giants played the North Grenville Knights in yesterday's semi-final game in Prescott. The results were unavailable as of press time.

If the Giants won, they will advance to play the winner of the TISS-St. Mary semi-final match-up Thursday at 2 pm in Prescott.

Falcons holding golf tournament June 5 at PGC to raise money

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey hockey club is holding the Brockville Kia golf tournament Saturday, June 5 at the Prescott Golf Club.

The tournament will be a scramble format and will run throughout the day.

Tickets include a steak dinner, 18 holes of golf and prizes.

Come out and support the Falcons hockey club as they look to continue the success of its inaugural season in the Eastern Ontario Senior A Hockey League.

For more information or to purchase a ticket contact Dean Kirkby at 925-1988 or Nancy Deschambault at 345-2922.

Annual charity fundraiser seeking sponsors for golf tourney

BROCKVILLE - The 1,000 Islands Branch of the Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR) is looking for hole sponsors and prizes to be donated for its annual golf tournament to be held later this summer at Highland Golf Club in Brockville.

The RCR is a group of World War 2 and Korean War veterans.

The money raised from the golf tournament will be used to assist other community organizations such as minor hockey and minor baseball.

For more information or to donate, contact John Shepherd at 342-8047 or Jack Shepherd at 498-4199.

Senior girls basketball team hosting garage sale Saturday

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville District High School senior girls basketball team will be holding a pair of fundraisers Saturday, May 22 at the high school.

The girls will be holding a garage sale from 8 am until noon, with a beef barbecue to follow from 3 pm until 6 pm.

The proceeds from the two fundraisers will help fund the senior girls basketball team's trip to Hawaii to participate in an eight-team tournament in December. The Giants will be competing against four Hawaiian club teams as well as three teams from British Columbia.

Tickets to the barbecue can be purchased at the event.

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