VOL. 174, NO. 23~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ June 9, 2004

Fifty-per-cent rate hike plan goes to council

Vote on Prescott water and sewer proposal expected later this month

PRESCOTT ­ Higher water and sewer rates are one step closer to becoming a reality in Prescott.

A bylaw calling for average rate hikes totalling about 50 per cent this year was introduced at Monday night's council meeting. The bylaw is to be given third and final reading June 21.

Significant rate hikes are being considered in response to provincial regulations that require users to cover 100 per cent of costs associated with providing water and sewer services; everything from underground pipes to replacing treatment plants must be accounted for in the rates instead of from taxation and the municipal budget.

The proposal calls for the minimum flat rate for a residential water hook-up to go from $12.10 to $21.20 per month, effective July 1. The flat rate for sewer goes from $15.14 to $25.40 per month. There are also significant increases in the works for metered water.

In all, the increases add up to an extra $232 per year for a basic residential user. The minimum for business customers would be $356 per year.

Although the proposed bylaw includes further rate hikes to take effect July 1, 2005, it was noted at the meeting those numbers carry no legal weight until next year's budget is approved. The purpose of including those numbers is to alert the public to what to expect in 2005.

If the bylaw is approved, the cost of an outdoor garden tap using water that does not pass through a meter would increase to $6 per month as of July 1 and $15 per month a year later.

In addition to meeting the user-pay requirement, the town is also hoping higher rates will lead to conservation.

Using the option agreed to by Prescott council, the town's biggest water user ­ Prescott Finishing ­ would see its water and sewer costs rise by more than $4,000 per month. The company has asked to meet with town officials to discuss the proposed rate structure.

Community loses local journalist, historian

The town of Prescott lost a true man of the community Saturday as longtime Prescott Journal publisher John A. H. Morris passed away peacefully at the Brockville General Hospital after a lengthy illness.

Morris, in his 69th year, also had owned the Winchester Press, Manotick Messenger, Barrhaven Independent, Leeds and Grenville Business News, Osgoode & Rideau Packet, Tupper Lake Free Press and Gouveneur Tribune Press.

He was also noted locally for his work as an author. Morrises' History of Prescott: 1800-2000 is a 540-page hardcover book that has been recognized as the benchmark of smalltown history books in Ontario.

Morris followed the footsteps of his father, the late John A. "Jack" Morris, into journalism. The family's association with the newspaper business started in Chesterville, Ont., in 1926 when 17-year-old Jack Morris, who had come to Canada as a three-year-old with his family from East Yorkshire, UK, in 1912, graduated from Chesterville High School and joined the staff of the Chesterville Record as a printer's devil.

By the time he left the Record in 1940 to join the Canadian Army, he had become the weekly newspaper's reporter, editor, linotype and press operator and compositor, graduating from the faculty of printer's devils magna cum laude. The senior Morris, who received his discharge from the army in 1946 as a major, resumed his printing and publishing career as editor of the Prescott Journal, becoming co-publisher in 1959.

In the meantime his son John had picked up the basics of the printing trade in the Chesterville and Prescott printing shops as a pre-teen and teenager and broke into the editorial side of the business by editing his high school newspaper when he was only 15. He continued his newspaper studies in the journalism department of the Ryerson Institute of Technology School of Graphic Arts.

Morris, before his passing, said he could not remember a time when he wasn't involved in newspapers. His involvement in newspapers goes back more than 60 years.

"I have some fond memories of the Chesterville Record and some painful ones," Morris recalled.

"When I was about six I used to go to the office on Thursdays to help - at least I thought I was helping - to fold and cut the paper after it came off the old flatbed press.

"It came off in one large sheet with four metro pages on each side, was folded twice and then the top spine was slit with a string held in place on one of the large composing tables by a nail.

'Dad used to let me slit some of the papers and occasionally the publisher, George C. Lacey, would reward my efforts with a nickel. That would buy an Opera Cocktail softdrink or a large bag of Planter's Peanuts. During the war years, five nickels bought you a War Savings Stamp to stick in your savings book."

And the painful memories?

"It was in the winter of 1941 and I was playing with some of my friends in front of the Record office, waiting to walk home with Dad at six o'clock. We had our sleighs and were pushing each other up and down the street. One of the sleighs ran into me from behind and I broke my collar bone when I hit the sidewalk.

"Dr. Justus was called to the office where he set the broken bone and strapped my back to a board to immobilize me during the healing process. All this with no drugs or painkillers. And as far as the 'There, there, now, this won't hurt' goes, it hurt like hell."

Following his discharge from the Canadian army in 1946, John's father returned to the Record for a short time before accepting the job as editor of the Prescott Journal. The family moved to Prescott in 1947 and John's apprenticeship on a weekly newspaper continued on a part-time basis.

"One of my regular jobs over the next few years was to strip plates - yes, we saved the nails - and using the hardwood mounting boards for fuel, melted the plates down into lino slugs in a special stove that had a melting pot built into the top. I ladled the molten metal into iron moulds and made ingots for the linotype."

While learning the printing trade, Morris also began his career as a writer. At 13, he began writing for the school newspaper and served as the paper's editor at Prescott High School for three years. It was in his final year at Prescott High School that Morris decided to pursue a career in journalism.

"I decided that if I was going to study journalism I wanted to stay in the weekly newspaper business," he said.

"I came to the conclusion when I looked at my hometown and saw the best three jobs were the doctors, lawyers and newspaper publisher. Money and brains ruled out the first two, but I figured I had enough bull---- to become a publisher."

Morris decided to go to Ryerson Institute of Technology, a school that catered to the weekly newspaper business with its mix of journalism and graphic arts. The other influencing factor, he said, was that Ted Toogood and Bruce Forsythe were starting a football program at Ryerson and were offering favours to prospective players. Morris excelled in football as a student athlete at Ryerson.

After leaving Ryerson, Morris was hired by Ontario Hydro and was given the responsibility of starting up and editing a weekly employee newspaper for the 6,000 persons employed on the St. Lawrence Power Project over a 40-mile stretch between Prescott and Cornwall.

After almost three years with the St. Lawrence Power Project newspaper, John purchased the Kemptville Advance in 1957 from the late Fred J. Friend, building it into one of the better smalltown weekly newspapers in Eastern Ontario before selling it in 1964 to join his father in purchasing outright the Prescott Journal and Cardinal News and their parent firm, St. Lawrence Printing Company Ltd.

John took over the responsibilities of editor and publisher of the two newspapers while his father managed the company's commercial printing operation and devoted much of his time researching and writing the first history ever published about the town of Prescott. It was published in 1968.

"I took over the Kemptville Advance the first week of August, 1957, and when I arrived at the office at 7:30 am there were two older and distinguished gentlemen sitting on the front steps and blocking my entrance to the building,' Morris recalled.

"One introduced himself as the reeve and chairman of the village's PC Association, and the other was the Grand Master of the Masonic Lodge, which rented the second floor of our building; and next to the local PC Association, was the second most influential organization in the village.

"After some brief introductions, the reeve stepped over and blocked the doorway, and said, 'This newspaper was revived in the late 1930s by former Ontario Premier G. Howard Ferguson and has been a strong supporter of the party ever since. if you're not going to continue this tradition, sonny, then don't even bother to hang up your hat 'cause you won't last two weeks in this town.'

"Well, when you're 21, have a couple of years of pro and semi-pro football under your belt, and still pack a solid 225 pounds on a six-foot frame, you don't take too kindly to being pushed around by two corpulent Conservative pork barrellers.

"But on the other hand when you're $25,000 in debt and haven't even started your first day on a job you know very little about, your fuse is just a wee bit long.

"So I sucked up my gut, looked them right in the eye and became the best god-damned Tory in town!"

Morris bought the controlling interest of the Advance in 1958 and also met his future wife, who was then a math teacher at Kemptville High School. John and Beth were married in August 1959. They moved to Prescott in 1964 with their two young children, Lisa and Jeff. Morris sold the Kemptville Advance to two of his employees in order to become a partner with his father at the Prescott Journal.

Not only did Morris follow his father's footsteps upon his return to Prescott, but he also followed his footsteps into playing a pivotal leadership role as a volunteer in the community. His parents, Jack and Ida Morris, were both visible in their community involvement. Their son would soon follow with his work to grow and promote business and tourism in Prescott.

Morris served as a school board trustee on both the Prescott Public School Board and then the South Grenville District High School Board.

He was Director of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce for over 30 years, serving five terms as president.

In 1967, Morris served as Chairman of the Prescott Centennial Committee and organized the town's weeklong celebration for Canada's Centennial.

Morris organized Prescott's first Military Pageant at Fort Wellington, which for 25 years was the largest period military display of its kind in Canada.

Morris also arranged for the 1973 visit of the tallship replica, the Nonsuch, to Prescott. This was the first visit to Prescott by a tallship in modern times and was highlighted by a mock naval battle between the Nonsuch and Fort Wellington, whose cannons were manned by period artillery units from the Fort Henry Guard.

Morris also organized the Canadian Olympic Torch Relay ceremony as it passed through Prescott in 1976.

When Jack Morris retired in 1976 after 50 years in the weekly newspaper business his youngest son Robin joined John as a junior partner. In their first major expansion they purchased the Chesterville Record, 50 years after their father started his career there. The Morris family's next move was to purchase the Tupper Lake (NY) Free Press in 1977, and the next year they started the Eastern Ontario Agrinews, a monthly publication that has become the premier agriculture newspaper in Eastern Ontario.

The Winchester Press was added to the family's growing group of weeklies in 1981. It was while making regular visits to the Winchester operation that company president John Morris started visiting the rapidly growing Manotick area on a regular basis, acting on the advice of his Winchester advertising staff who were developing a base of regular advertisers there. "Residential development came to the area first," Morris recalls, "but this was soon followed by the expansion of the retail sector and by 1984 a healthy competition was developing as new stores were opened and the Manotick Mews embarked on another expansion. I used to nose around Manotick, North Gower and Osgoode one or two days a month talking to many of the people I know when I was the publisher of the Kemptville Advance, and it wasn't long before a little monthly publication called The Manotick Messenger was started by a group of Manotick volunteers.

"I took this as a healthy sign of confidence in the community and after a couple of months and a couple of editions, I approached these volunteers and offered my assistance and advice in their new venture," Morris continued. "My timing was pretty good. The volunteers' Messenger had become very popular as the community's only source of local news and demand by both readers and advertisers became more than this core of about 10 volunteers wanted. They figured it was time to hand their "baby" over to more experienced hands and because of our family's long-standing reputation as community-minded newspaper publishers, we were asked to take over the publication."

Although the Morris newspaper business was expanding beyond Prescott, he continued to play a major role in the community.

Locally, he was involved with the organization of Prescott's Downtown Business Improvement Area and served as the Chairman for the committee responsible for the re-organization of the South Grenville Economic Development Commission for eight years.

He also lobbied the federal government to introduce re-enactors at Fort Wellington, thus turning it into a living museum and increasing its annual attendance by over 1000 per cent.

Morris was responsible for organizing the committee responsible for forming the Hwy. 416 Citizens Coalition, which carried out successful lobby for the construction of Hwy. 416 as a four-lane highway from Johnstown to Ottawa.

Morris even tied his passion for community service into his roots as a newspaper man, as in 1984 he co-chaired the first Prescott High School reunion and published one last issue of The Tattler.

Through the years, Morris has been recognized for his work in newspapers and in the community.

He was the recipient of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award for volunteer work in the community in 1980.

He served on the Ontario Community Newspaper Association Board of Directors for 20 years and in 2002 was presented with his "Golden Quill Award" by the Canadian Community Newspaper Association for 50 years service in the community newspaper industry.

In 2002, he was also the recipient of the Grenville County Historical Society Award of Merit for his work over the years in researching and promoting and in making local citizens aware of the importance of Prescott's colourful history.

In 2003, Morris received his most prestigious award when he was presented with the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal by MPP Bob Runciman at a ceremony at the Royal Brock Hotel in Brockville.

Summing up his own career recently, Morris said, "I proved I didn't need money or brains to become a publisher!"

Morris was the husband of the former Beth Fulton, father of Lisa Taylor (Scott) of Maitland and Jeffrey Morris (Jennifer) of Puyallup, Washington; grandfather of Stuart, Austin and Brooke Taylor and Jack and Wade Morris. Brother of Connie (Mrs. Dan Clark) of Belleville, Robin of Morrisburg and Deborah (Mrs. Bruce Allan) of Toronto. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and aunt Isobel Baker. He was predeceased by his parents Jack and Ida Morris.

Friends may call at the Chris Slater Funeral Home, 416 Dibble Street West, Prescott from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 pm Wednesday. Funeral services will be held at St. John's Anglican Church, Prescott, on Thursday at 2 p.m. Cremation with interment will be at a later date. For those wishing, the family would appreciate donations to the Restoration Fund at St. John's Anglican Church, Prescott. Condolences and donations may be sent online at www.chrisslaterfuneralhome.com.

John A.H. Morris (1935-2004)

THIS WEEK

Offices closed Thursday

PRESCOTT ­ The offices of The Prescott Journal and St. Lawrence Printing will be closed this Thursday, June 10 in memory of Publisher John Morris.

The offices will return to regular operating hours Friday, June 11.

Today is Camp Day

PRESCOTT - Tim Hortons is holding its annual Camp Day today (June 9).

All proceeds from coffee sales during this 24-hour period are being donated by Tim Hortons outlets in Canada and the United States to send more that 9,000 children to camp.

Chicken BBQ at church

MAYNARD ­ The annual Victoria United Church chicken barbecue will take place today (Wednesday) from 4:30 to 7:30 pm at the church on County Road 26.

Call 925-4114 for more information.

Town proposes garbage bag price increases

PRESCOTT ­ A proposal to increase the price of town garbage bags will be voted on at the June 21 council meeting.

A bylaw to establish new prices as of July 1 was introduced at council Monday night. If approved, paper bags will cost $2 apiece, regular-sized plastic bags will go for $1.50 each and the price of kitchen-sized plastic bags will be 75 cents each.

The move would generate an estimate $20,000 in additional revenue for the municipality.

Councillor Nancy Lane said she opposes the motion, adding higher water and sewer rates being proposed will be enough for the community to handle this year.

Choo, choo, choose this stop on the weekend

PRESCOTT ­ The Leeds & Grenville Model Railroaders will host an open house this Saturday, June 12 and next Saturday, June 19 from 10 am to 2 pm above Doyle's on King Street West.

Take a closer look at the two layouts and model trains on display. Admission is free.

Shakespeare still needs a few more billets

PRESCOTT ­ The St. Lawrence Shakespeare Company is still seeking a few local residents who would be willing to billet actors coming to Prescott for next month's St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.

Anyone who can provide a spare bedroom and access to a bathroom and some fridge space is asked to contact Judie Martin at 925-1820.

This year's production of The Comedie of Errors runs from July 12-31 at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre at Sandra S. Lawn Harbour.

ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE NEWS

Audio equipment taken from studio

VENTNOR ­ About $4,000 in audio equipment and musical instruments was removed from a studio attached to a garage on Howard Street. The break-in was reported the morning of June 5 and had taken place during the night. It is believed the gear was loaded into a waiting vehicle. Further details on the stolen items was unavailable at press time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Large at the Grenville OPP detachment (925-4221).

The constable is also investigating an attempted break and enter that same night at Myles Discount in Spencerville. Although the bolts on a rear window had been broken off, it did not appear entry was gained.

Kid's jeep is taken for a ride

SHANLY ­ A child's Peg Perago Gaucho jeep was removed from a shed at the rear of a County Road 21 residence during the overnight hours of June 2-3. The jeep might have been driven across an adjacent hayfield. The battery-powered vehicle is valued at $800.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Constable Runciman at the OPP detachment in Prescott (925-4221) or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Dispatch now handled in Smiths Falls

SMITHS FALLS ­ OPP dispatch services in Eastern Region (including Grenville County) have been transferred.

Since Monday morning, calls are being handled at a new provincial communications centre in Smiths Falls. Calls had been dispatched through a communications centre in Perth.

The change does not affect telephone numbers used by the public. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1. To reach the Grenville detachment in Prescott, call 925-4221.

Storefront office opens in Kemptville

KEMPTVILLE ­ A new OPP storefront office is being opened later this week on Prescott Street across from the CIBC bank.

The extended service office, which is being supplied with phones and computers, will be used by Grenville County officers assigned to the Town of Kemptville. The downtown presence is in addition to the satellite office located on County Road 43.

The new location became possible through a partnership involving the downtown revitalization committee, the association of downtown business owners, North Grenville Police Services Board and the detachment and OPP regional headquarters members.

Garden tour is Saturday

EDWARDSBURGH ­ The annual Garden Tour sponsored by Friends of the Edwardsburgh Library is this Saturday, June 12.

The sites include the gardens of Ethel and Claude Melbourne at 816 County Road 2, Angie and Gord Knights at 525 Pittston Road, Linda and Stan Poaps at 917 Crowder Road, Irene and Eddy Beaudoin at 98 County Road 21, Carol and Dennis Colautti at 8071/8075/8085 County Road 22 and Doug Hall and Gordon MacDonald's garden at 6 South St., Spencerville.

Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Spencerville library or at the Edwardsburgh Lions Hall Saturday. The Lions Den on County Road 44 is hosting a plant sale Saturday from 8 am to 3 pm , with tea to follow at 3 pm. Proceeds go to support the Spencerville library.

Main street sidewalk sale includes activities for kids

PRESCOTT ­ Vehicles will be steered clear of main street later this month to allow residents and visitors to make up for some lost fun time.

King Street West between Edward and George streets will be closed Saturday, June 19 from 9 am to 5 pm. The move will enable merchants to have a Father's Day sidewalk sale as well as several events and activities, many of which will be aimed at children and families.

Early-morning rain and a less-than-promising forecast led to the cancellation of Harbour Days 'Monday events last month, including the petting zoo and the teddy bear clinic/picnic. Both will take place on King Street next weekend, according to organizer Mike Boyles.

He noted there had been suggestions and requests at the end of Harbour Days to have the cancelled events go ahead some other time.

Also in store for main street on the 19th are displays by the Prescott Fire Department and Riverside Pontiac-Buick as well as face-painting, karaoke, square dancing and a Rotary BBQ. Free rides on the Grenville Fish and Game Club's Little Dreamer will be offered at the marina.

A new event to take place in front of the Daniels' Hotel lot will be the building of a "food mountain." Non-perishable items will be collected on behalf of the Food For All Food Bank, the Prescott-based facility that serves residents of South Grenville.

The petting zoo is sponsored by O'Reilly's. Free drinks and chips will be distributed by Giant Tiger.

The day is shaping up to be full of events the kids will enjoy, according to Boyles.

"It looks like a great day for Dad, too," he said.

Many of the events will take place late in the morning or early in the afternoon. See next week's Journal for more details on Father's Day weekend fun.

New street named Development Drive

PRESCOTT ­ The new road that runs west from Edward Street north of Highway 401 has been named Development Drive.

The name was recommended by Prescott's planning and development committee at its May 25 meeting.

Prescott council made it official when it accepted the committee's report Monday night.

Riverside Pontiac-Buick, which will soon be relocating to its new location on that road, had asked the town to provide a street name as soon as possible for address registration purposes.

The town is also planning to change the name of Douglas Drive to Fort Town Drive.

Local Conservatives are confident Canadians want to make a change

Gord Brown says he is not taking anything for granted

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The Tories are optimistic about their chances in Leeds-Grenville, but they acknowledge their work is far from being done.

About 30 Conservative supporters gathered Thursday afternoon for the official opening of the Prescott-area campaign office on Centre Street. Candidate Gord Brown said the response in the early part of the campaign has been "phenomenal."

He noted the biggest surprise has been the number of people who voted Liberal in 2000 who say they will vote Conservative this time.

"I continue not to take things for granted," Brown added.

The candidate told supporters Canadians want a government it can trust and that will live up to its promises.

He said people should not be fooled by a Liberal party that cut health care and is now pulling out a cheque book as an election approaches.

The riding needs an MP who will fight hard for the infrastructure needs of local communities, according to Brown.

He also emphasized helping small business and getting corporate tax rates down as a means of boosting economic development at home and across the country.

Also on hand at the opening was Conservative MP Monte Solberg, who represents the Alberta riding of Medicine Hat. Solberg said Albertans want to know how things are going in Ontario in terms of support for the Conservatives. The MP said many Liberal supporters here are discouraged and will hold their party accountable and teach it a lesson by voting for the Tories.

Brown and Solberg also spoke highly of Conservative leader Stephen Harper, who visited Brockville on the day the federal election was called.

"Who'd have thought there would be one party united under one leader," said Solberg, who also remarked Harper helped "...pull together a pretty messed-up caucus."

Brown added Canadians will get to know Harper a lot better when they see him in action at the upcoming leaders debate.

Incumbent says he wants to stick with positive Liberal message

Canada is in strong position, according to Joe Jordan

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Stay positive and do not be negative.

This is the message incumbent Liberal MP Joe Jordan has for his supporters as he tries to get re-elected in Leeds-Grenville.

Jordan was in Prescott Friday to officially open his campaign office on King Street East.

Jordan, who has served in the House of Commons for seven years and was re-elected by a narrow margin in 2000, acknowledged the election battle against the Conservatives is tough. "We knew that going in," said Jordan, who noted it is acceptable to challenge an opponent's ideas. Although he said the Liberals need to be more aggressive in terms of selling their platform, "We're not going to attack candidates."

As for how the campaign has gone so far, Jordan said "the elements we control we're doing very well."

He told the gathering of about 20 people the Liberals' message is government has a positive role to play in the lives of Canadians, adding issues are not solved by opting for less government or a free market.

As for the controversial gun registry, Jordan said evidence shows the public policy arguments for the registry are sound. However, the MP noted the Liberals "made a mess" of its implementation by allowing a simple concept to become complicated and costly.

Treasury Board President Reg Alcock made an appearance at the Landmark Inn in Cardinal Thursday night. The Liberal MP from Manitoba referred to the current campaign as "...the damndest election I've ever been in." However, Alcock told the gathering of about 30 people the indicators point to good things for the party in many areas of the country.

"Canada is in incredible shape" financially compared to its G-8 partners, according to Alcock. He went on to say he has huge respect for Jordan, who has served as parliamentary secretary to the minister since Paul Martin became prime minister. "I'll do anything I can to get Joe back," Alcock said.

In noting the outcome of this election is far from certain, Jordan told supporters voters will have to "...give some thought to what that 'X' means" on election day.

The Liberal candidate said he is not afraid to debate the issues and respond to critics of the Liberal government. The goal is to identify support for the party and make sure supporters get to the polls June 28.

Charge laid in fatal crash

PRESCOTT ­ A 29-year-old Kingston woman has been charged in connection with the May 23 collision that led to the death of Grenville County OPP Constable Tyler Boutilier.

Heather May Summers was arrested Friday and charged with dangerous driving causing death. She appeared in Brockville court and was released. Her next scheduled court appearance is June 18.

Boutilier, 32, who was also a member of the OPP's emergency response team, was responding to a call near Seeley's Bay when the cruiser he was driving collided with an oncoming vehicle driven by Summers on Highway 15 near the Main Street exit. The constable died a few hours later at Kingston General Hospital.

Summers was injured in the crash. Three other occupants of the vehicle she was driving were not injured.

Police have yet to release much in the way of details of the crash.

Boutilier had served at the Prescott-based Grenville detachment since joining the OPP in 2000.

Candidates to speak in Brockville

BROCKVILLE ­ A Leeds-Grenville all-candidates meeting will take place Monday, June 14 at the Memorial Centre on Magedoma Drive in Brockville.

All four declared candidates in the June 28 federal election have been invited to attend the meeting, which starts at 7 pm. The event is sponsored by the Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce.

As of press time, plans for a candidates meeting in the Prescott area had not been confirmed.

An agriculture-based debate involving Leeds-Grenville candidates will take place this Thursday, June 10 at 7 pm at the hall in Spring Valley.

SCHOOL SCENE

Boundary Street Public School: The May recognition assembly was held Monday. The theme was respect and tolerance.

Entertainment was organized and provided by members of the Grade 7 and 8 classes ­ a job well done! The following students were recognized: Paige Morgan, Katie Todd, Taylor Brown-Hutchcroft, Dillon Stoddard, Logan Grant, Jeff Gaw, Rik Champagne, Tashina Sorrell, Chelsea Deschamps, Chelsea Perkins, Kari Ditchburn, Andrew White, Norman Aubin, Shawn Scharfe, Tara Ditchburn, Allison Davies, Brooklyn Wilson, Devon Stoddard, Cody Dietschweiler, Courtney Lyttle, Rebekkah Long, Devon Burtch, Daniel LaPorte, Vincent DeRapp, George Doherty, and Steven Noonan, Miranda Stubbs, Amanda Corey, Emily Sprague and Kate Madden.

Boundary will be hosting School Readiness Workshops June 8 ("How Your Child Learns"), June 10 ("Help Your Child Get Along"), June 15 ("Help Your Child Figure Things Out") and June 17 ("Going to School"). All workshops will be held in the gym from 9-11:30 am. For more information and to pre-register, call 925-3184.

Hot lunch this week is subs.

St. Joseph Catholic School: Congratulations to our St. Joe's Good Samaritans: Thomas Polite, Christian Saumier, Sam Cleary, Jenny Minish, Isabella Lampron, Colleen Dixon and Ms. Donnelly.

Our Grade 6 students received the last Sacrament of Initiation: Confirmation on Monday, June 7. Our prayers are with these students as they accept full partnership in God's family: the church.

Two of our Grade 5 students will be participating in Tim Hortons Camp Day, today, Wednesday, June 9 between 11 am and 12:15 pm.

The St. Joe's Track and Field Activity Day will be held at SGDHS Monday, June 14.

Our end of the year Celebration of the Eucharist will be on Wednesday, June 16th at 10:30 am. We will present certificates to our Christian Class Leaders from grades 4 to 7. We will also express our thanks to our 2003-2004 volunteers.

The St. Joe's Drama Team will present The Hobbit on Wednesday, June 16 at 7 pm.

Graduation mass and exercises will take place at St. Mark's Church Monday, June 21.

St. Mark Catholic School: Many fun and exciting events have been happening at St. Mark Catholic School as we continue to experience a busy month of June.

St. Mark school council is sponsoring its monthly bingo at Bingo International Saturday, June 12 at 8:30 pm.

Over the next week, we have teachers finishing seminars and workshops at the board office, a principal's retreat and our closing school mass Monday, June 14 at 9:30 am at St. Mark's Catholic Church.

Our Grade 3 students will have a pizza lunch Tuesday, June 15 to celebrate all of the responsible jobs they have carried out throughout the school year.

Our Kindergarten classes will be celebrating their "water fun and playday" Wednesday, June 16 for A classes and Thursday, June 17 for the B class.

Hot lunch this week is chicken chunks.

South Edwardsburg Public School: School council welcomes the entire school community to an "End of Year Family Barbecue" June 10 at 6 pm.

On the 15th, our grade 7/8 class is off to LaRonde in Montreal for its year-end trip. The Grade 5/6 class will visit the Brockville Museum June 15.

Both Kindergarten classes will enjoy "Sand, Sun, and Fun" at Grenville Park June 17.

All classes will participate in Science Quest Workshops.

Bring a blanket and your lunch and join us for an old-fashioned family picnic June 18 at noon.

A Scholastic book fair will be held in the library June 16-18.

School council is requesting your favourite recipes for a cookbook fundraising campaign that will take place in November. Recipes can be sent to the school or e-mailed to sepsrecipes@yahoo.ca.

Johnstown/Cardinal pool staff presented a water safety program to all our students June 7 and 8.

Hot lunch today is hot dogs.

Town budget process enters home stretch

PRESCOTT ­ The town is expected to finalize its 2004 budget within the next two weeks.

Prescott council set property tax rations at its meeting Monday night. A bylaw to set tax rates will be introduced at the June 21 meeting.

The 2004 operating budget has basically been completed, according to town officials. They said they are closing on the goal of avoiding a tax increase; someone whose home was assessed at $100,000 would pay the same or less in taxes this year if the reassessed value remained at $100,000.

One change approved by council Monday will see the tax ratio for multi-residential properties decrease from about 2.14 to 1.8.

Council met before and after the council meeting Monday night to discuss Prescott's 2004 capital budget. On the public works side, projects identified as being top priorities include repairs to the CN overpass, road work on Churchill, Edward and Industrial in the north end of town, two fully-functional crosswalks on Edward Street at Park Street and at Victor Road as well as repairs to the roof at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

Among the items not expected to make the final cuts are fencing along the railway corridor, a move that would make it likely the town could enact a bylaw banning train whistles.

GCFDC to hold AGM June 23

CARDINAL ­ Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation (GCFDC) will conduct its annual general meeting Wednesday, June 23 at 9 am at the Landmark Inn in Cardinal.

Prescott-based GCFDC is funded by Industry Canada and offers a range of services to businesses and companies. GCFDC also promotes economic development opportunities in the Grenville County area.

The guest speaker at the AGM will be Dermid O'Farrell of O'Farrell Financial Services Inc. A complimentary breakfast will be served.

For more information, call GCFDC at 925-4275.

Unemployment rate rises, but EI claims fall in May

KINGSTON ­ The regional unemployment rate increased as the national rate decreased in May.

The jobless rate for the Eastern Ontario region that includes South Grenville was 8.5 per cent last month, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) reported Friday. The unemployment rate in April was 8.1 per cent.

The services-producing sector recorded job reductions, with education reporting the biggest decrease. Manufacturing experienced employment gains, an HRSDC release states.

The regional unemployment rate last year at this time was slightly lower at 8.2 per cent.

In addition to Leeds-Grenville, the Eastern Ontario region includes Lanark, Prescott-Russell and Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry counties.

Locally, the Prescott HRSDC office reported a significant decrease in Employment Insurance (EI) claims. There were 1,167 active regular and special EI claimants at the end of May, 17 per cent fewer than the 1,407 claimants on the books at the end of April.

The Kingston-Pembroke management area recorded a 13.2-per-cent decrease in claimants last month.

HRSDC notes assessment of EI claimant data does not determine the unemployment rate.

Canada's unemployment rate was 7.2 per cent last month, down from 7.3 per cent in April.

Third floor talk continues at town hall

PRESCOTT ­ Town officials are considering a proposal that would see the Prescott campus of the T.R. Leger alternative school move to the Dibble Street municipal building.

The town is reviewing terms of a long-term lease agreement with the Upper Canada District School Board. T.R. Leger is currently housed at South Grenville District High School.

The municipality has been trying to find a "quasi-government" tenant for the third floor of the renovated town hall; one other party had expressed interest in leasing the upper floor.

Terms of the school's offer was discussed by Prescott council during a closed-door session at the end of last Tuesday's budget meeting. The matter is expected to resurface at next Monday's committee meetings.

The third floor used to house the local Air Cadet squadron. The 73-year-old building served as Prescott High School prior to the opening of South Grenville District in the late 1950s.

Concert to be held in North Augusta

NORTH AUGUSTA ­ Tom Wilson and Border Bluegrass will be in concert Sunday, June 13 at 7:30 pm at St. Peter's Anglican Church on Branch Road.

Light refreshments will follow the show. Tickets can be purchased at the door. Proceeds go to the Residential School Settlement Fund.

Another season gets rolling at the mill

SPENCERVILLE - Volunteers have been getting the Spencerville Mill grounds and gardens ready for another season.

The mill will be open the last weekend of June and will begin its regular summer hours Wednesday, June 30. The historic site will be open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. There is no admission charge.

Two summer employment opportunities have been created for local youths through government funding. The first position is assisting restoration tradesmen, applicants must be 15-25 and the deadline for applications is June 11. The second placement offers a student aged 15-30 the opportunity to gain experience as a heritage planner. Deadline for resumes is June 15. Call 925-2508.

In addition to the art show and sale set for June 19-20, the mill welcomes local artists during the week of June 28 to gather informally from 10 am to 3 pm to capture the historic mill with brush, pen or pencil. To reserve a place, call 658-2263.

Local residents are checking their cupboards and closets for a quintessential quilt made by a mother or grandmother. These quilts from 50 years ago or more tell a textile story of their own. To enter the show on the weekend of July 10-11, call 658-2737.

Private funding has made it possible to have the water turbine removed for restoration. The Spencerville Mill will not become a working mill, but visitors will be able to hear the sound of water running through the mill.

Volunteers are always needed. Call 658-2263 or 658-5885.

Police investigate missing camcorder and break-ins

PRESCOTT ­ Among the 102 incidents investigated by the Prescott Police Service during the week of May 31 include:

May 31: A Mackenzie Road resident reports her Panasonic camcorder is missing. There was no sign of forced entry. The value of the camcorder is $1,200.

June 1: A break-in is reported at Creative Hands and Minds on King Street West. Items taken include a Janome sewing machine, baby crib quilt, Yosemite sample quilt and a dog and wolf wall hangings. Total value is about $950. There were no signs of forced entry.

June 1: Residents of King and Dibble streets report their vehicles had been ransacked; personal documents and change is missing.

June 3: Damage at Central Public School is reported by a janitor. Two males were reportedly on the school roof the previous night and ripped out intercom system wires.

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.

Youngsters find creative ways to tell their peers to Stomp Out Bullying

By Cortney Willard, Special to The Journal

MAYNARD - The message is clear: bullying must be stomped out.

Grade 7 and 8 students from Maynard Public School put on a show Monday at Boundary Street Public School in Prescott, to "raise awareness and provide positive solutions" to bullying, according to Maynard teacher and "Stomp Out Bullying" organizer Sam Crosby.

Students from Boundary and Central schools took in the performance that included dance, percussion instruments and lessons every bully and victim could learn from.

"Bullying is a problem. It's getting worse. We've got to stop it," said Crosby, hoping to do so through music and a play written by kids, so kids can relate.

Stomp Out Bullying performer and Maynard student Dylan Hayes describes Crosby as "enthusiastic and excellent" as well as energetic. He explained their theme as "a play on anti-bullying and the effects of bullying and what it can do to people who are bullied."

Suicide was one of the tough issues posed by the group, and while it can be a difficult topic, Hayes says he hopes this play will make people realize they have other options when they are bullied.

Classmate Erica Meppelder mentioned she had been bullied before and got involved in the play to help spread the word that bullying is wrong.

Her message is "Think before you act."

The group has worked together for eight months, and Crosby credits the students with all of the hard work, "This is a completely student-done venture," she announced to the crowd awaiting the play.

When asked what was the one thing Hayes could say to a bully, he said, "Lots of Canadians are bullied. Just stop it; it's senseless entertainment."

Crosby mentioned bullying is nothing new, but is a problem that is getting worse and one that needs to be dealt with addressed.

The Stomp troupe has also performed in Cardinal and Brockville. Its final performance will take place this Friday, June 11 at Thousand Islands Secondary School.

For more information, call Crosby at 925-4291.

Walk supports work of House of Lazarus

MOUNTAIN ­ A walk to support awareness of rural poverty and the need for positive change will take place this Saturday, June 12 just east of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

The five-kilometre walk starts at 10 am at the agricultural hall (the old fire hall) in South Mountain and ends at the House of Lazarus on Simms Street.

A barbecue begins at 11 am, with presentations to follow at about 12:45 pm.

The event will take place rain or shine.

The House of Lazarus Community Outreach Mission operates a food bank, thrift and household shops.

For more information, call Pauline at (613) 989-3830.

Melodymen sing to fight speech disorders

BROCKVILLE ­ The Brockville Melodymen Barbershop Chorus will host a giant garage sale and sing-out this Saturday, June 12 at the Brockville Truck Centre on Parkedale Avenue.

Proceeds from the event go to the Ontario Harmonize For Speech Fund, which supports work being done in the field of speech disorders and afflictions that inhibit normal speech.

The 20-member chorus, which includes members from the South Grenville area, will even do requests for a price.

For more information, call Bob Panter at 342-7967.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I continue not to take things for granted."

Leeds-Grenville Conservative candidate Gord Brown, referring to his party's prospects

Editor's Notebook

Thank you, John

At a time when there are many issues or subjects that could or should be noted in the Editor's Notebook, please permit me to stray from the usual format and offer a few thoughts about John Morris.

A few years ago when I told my former boss about my impending move to Prescott to work for John Morris, he referred to John as "a good man." When I arrived in Prescott, the first person who found out I'd be working for John referred to him as, well, I can't use that word in print. It did not take long for me to realize the extent to which John's sometimes pointed remarks could draw a response (both positive and negative). However, even some of the people who were on the receiving end of that stinging wit told me they liked the old curmudgeon. Many others noted how much they enjoyed reading John's Fort Town Diary and looked forward to the next target ­ I mean, subject ­ because he was not afraid to speak out and put his name to it.

It was refreshing to arrive in town and see the publisher at his typewriter, not a computer keyboard. Even though John recognized the value of keeping up with technology, he also understood the importance of tradition and standards when it came to running a small-town weekly newspaper. He could be tough, but he truly respected the community he served.

There are also many untold stories of how John gave his support to individuals and causes. He often went beyond what an employer would be expected to do for his workers; the same can be said for his friends and organizations. John may have been viewed as a hard man by some, but they did not see the way John cared about his community and never gave up on it. He was passionate about its heritage and its future; even when he was facing his own challenges, John remained committed to the Prescott area and the people around him. Even when his body was failing him, his mind remained sharp.

As much as I share the grief of John's family, perhaps there is or will be some comfort or sense of relief in knowing his pain has ended.

It saddens me that John and his family will not be able to enjoy more of his so-called golden years. John's friends, employees and readers will also miss the opportunity to benefit from John's experiences and his outlook on life. As much as we must grieve his loss, we should also celebrate his life and what he meant to his community. John Morris will be missed, and he will never be forgotten.

On behalf of myself and all the people you helped over the years, John, let me say thank you and may peace be with you.

Tim Ruhnke

Canada needs more than garden-variety politicians

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS byb David Dickenson

One night while at home watching television and flipping the channel aimlessly as I tend to do, I stumbled upon CNN and came to a realization.

How come all the major American politicians are exciting, interesting and full of charisma, where most of the Canadian politicians out there seem to be dull and drab?

As Wolf Blitzer, Christiane Amanpour and Bernard Shaw blabbered on for hours about all the American politicians and their trials and tribulations, I started to recognize the trend.

One after another, they would bring up these interesting people and their charisma actually stood out; it made watching the news actually entertaining. Arnold Schwarzenegger (a former movie star/bodybuilder), Jesse Ventura (a former wrestler who got started in politics because he wanted a pothole on his street fixed), and John Kerry (a Vietnam War veteran, husband to the Heinz Ketchup heiress and current tabloid mainstay): these were the people who were taking front stage in the news and each had something about them which was interesting to watch. They were not only politicians, they were entertainers.

Thinking back, the closest thing to a charismatic and interesting Canadian politician was Jean Chrétien. I don't really recall him doing much of anything in office, but I could always remember his voice and face from all the footage of him being hit by a pie by a protester, punching a protester or riding around on that little scooter he seemed to love so much. His antics, though, seemed to be more that of a clown someone might hire for their child's sixth birthday party rather than a politician, yet I still remembered him.

That wasn't exactly what I was going for with the interesting politician, but I was getting warmer. I wanted to find one who could be a notable personality as well as a functioning member of parliament.

We came close with Belinda Stronach's short-lived run: she's rich, she's beautiful and she had a high profile marriage (not to mention she allegedly is friends with Bill Clinton); that would have worked. Ken Dryden leaving the Toronto Maple Leafs for politics got Canada a little closer, but we're still not quite there yet.

One person who should look at running and would make a great Canadian personality in politics would be a man named Sean Morley. For those who don't know who Morley is, he is a Peterborough native who runs a Conservative newsletter in Ontario and is a very intelligent and charismatic personality. In fact, he is so charismatic people might know him from his other job playing a "porn star character" with the WWE wrestling organization.

He could be our Jesse Ventura, our man's man in politics, our recognizable individual who could put Canadian politics on more of a world stage.

King asks Canadians for silent prayer for Allied Invasion

FROM THE ARCHIVES

June 8, 1944

* "Official news of the long-awaited Allied Invasion of Europe through France was flashed to the Government of Canada at 3:30 Tuesday morning, June 6. Allied troops, protected by air and sea power, secured beach heads on the Normandy Peninsula...

At eight o'clock Tuesday morning, Premier King broadcasted a brief message in which he advised the people of Canada to be ready to receive news of heavy fighting which would bring successes and reverses, and he expressed his every confidence in the final outcome. Let the hearts of all in Canada today be filled with silent prayer for the success of our Allied Forces and the liberation of the people if Europe.'

The corvette Prescott was among the naval force that took part in the invasion Tuesday."

June 10, 1964

* James C. Walker, president of Wellington-Walker Limited, has announced plans to double production at the St. Lawrence Street plant and increase the workforce to 200 within the next two years. A night shift will be added at the maker of shirts and blouses. The plant will become the second largest manufacturer in Prescott.

* The shell of the building that once housed the Queen Alexandra Hotel at the corner of King and West streets has been levelled and the grounds cleared. The famous landmark accommodated many famous guests from both sides of the border during its 60 years of operation. Fire gutted the structure in 1961; one person died in the blaze.

* Among the specials being offered at the Dominion store in downtown Prescott are California Bing cherries (39 cents a pound), head lettuce (two for 39 cents) and Good Luck margarine (three one-pound packages for 88 cents). Shop with confidence: all meat and meat products sold at Dominion, whether fresh, frozen or processed, are government-inspected!

June 8, 1994

* The Town of Prescott will ask the Government of Ontario to commit its share of funding needed to four-lane Highway 16. The federal government has already committed its one-third share of funding. In supporting the move, Councillor Jim Knudson indicated the new highway should not be a toll road because it would be the only direct access to Ottawa from Highway 401.

Site of St. John's Anglican Church cost five shillings in 1822

FORT TOWN DIARY by John A.H. Morris

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

The Anglican parish here dates back as far as 1814, when the Diocese of Ontario was divided into parishes, including that of Augusta, which probably included Prescott. By 1821, Prescott was viewed as a distinct parish and the Rev. Robert Blakey was sent here from England by the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. A church building awaited him, on the south side of the present property, on land acquired, as was the case with the other neighbouring church properties, from the Jessup family. The land deed was made out to him on November 1, 1822, on payment of five shillings. The original church was a frame building of characteristic Norman design, with square and somewhat squat tower, and a picket fence around the property.

For 37 years Rev. Blakey worked faithfully for the parish, until his death in 1858. (It is interesting to note in the succession of incumbent rectors, how so many who served St. John's did so for long periods.) The chancel window in the present church is a tribute to his work in those early days. Soon the congregation began to outgrow the little frame building, and while under the pastoral care of Rev. Richard Lewis (1858-1862), the present beautiful stone church of pure Gothic design was built. The cost of the church was $13,600, not including furnishings. It was dedicated at three services in the morning, afternoon and evening on March 21, 1860.

The Registry Office records give the following information on the Rectory building, located on Dibble Street West: "1891 - No. of Deed 2436, Registered March 31, 1891. Sophia French sold to Rev. Wm Lewin and Albert Whitney, trustees, part of Lot 8, south side of Dibble, Block 2, Town of Prescott. Subject to rent charge and conditions."

In 1928, Rev. C. Patterson-Smyth became rector for three years, during which time a new stone Parish Hall and Merrington Memorial Chapel replaced the old wooden structure, at a cost of $35,000.

The Parish Hall was remodelled into its present two-storey design during the ministry of Rev. Frederick Payne, who came to Prescott in October, 1950 from the parish of Lyn. He guided the parish through an ambitious program of improvements marking the centennial of the building of the present edifice. Under Rev. Payne's direction, the chancel window was repaired, the chapel floor replaced, the communion rail and a new Casavant organ installed, the church floor tiled, a new heating system installed, and the exterior of the church painted. The cost of the project was $45,000.

From this parish four young men became full-time servants of the church, the most noteworthy being the late Most Rev. George Frederick Kingston, M.A., Ph.D., D.D., who was elected Primate of All Canada, the highest office of the Anglican Church in Canada, in September, 1947. A civic reception, including a parade, and testimonial dinner at Rushton Hall, marked the occasion of the return of that native son to Prescott later that fall.

In the earlier years of the parish history, curates were appointed to ease the load of the rector, as the parish obviously had wide rural bounds in those days. The last appointment as curate was around 1895, according to a history booklet of the parish.

History was made in 1978 when Mrs. Sheila McMahon was named People's Warden, the first woman to be appointed to the position in the congregation.

A 50th anniversary service celebrating Archdeacon Payne's ordination was held May 9, 1991. He had served the church for 28 years. Among the guests, participants and old friends attending the ceremony were The Rev. Canon John Garratt and the Rt. Rev. W. Robinson (Ret.), Bishop of Ottawa.

Repairs to the church roof in 1993 cost $145,000, which was raised in part by "Jazz at St. John's" performances in 1992. This was the first of many renovations and improvements carried out during the tenure of Rev. Gerald Ring, who succeeded Canon Robert Stewart in 1990. Contractors for the roof repairs were able to reuse some of the original slate tiles (which came to Prescott as ballast in ocean-going ships) by removing them from the outer edges of the roof and replacing them with copper sheeting to match the spire. For a short while, the church roof and spire glittered like gold, until the patina set in.

The parish celebrated its 175th anniversary September 29, 1996, with special services commemorating the unveiling of an historic bronze plaque. Erected by the Grenville County Historical Society, and the Anniversary Committee, and dedicated by Rev. Gerald Ring, the plaque honors 175 years of the church's spiritual and social life in Prescott.

At John's request, later in the summer there will be a celebration of his life in the form of a party with music, memories and fun. This will be a fundraiser for the restoration of St. John's Anglican Church. More details will be made available at a later date.

Spend part of the summer in the flower beds

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

We have had the opportunity and help to set the flower beds, now we need some helpers to keep them weeded and watered. If you are able to help with either of these jobs, please call 925-5300. We would like a commitment to tend the beds for one week during the summer. With a little luck, you would have a rain shower and the job would be very easy.

The women's business network plans to hold its last spring meeting here next Wednesday, June 16 at 7:30 am. This group is a way for women to promote their own businesses and also to be introduced to, and help promote the businesses of, other members. If you would like to attend, please call 925-5300.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Doris Mossman; 2nd, Nancy Coligan; door, Andy Britnell. Fun bridge ­ Ruth Wenger. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Findlay Hill; 2nd, Margaret Nesbitt. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Hugh Evely; 2nd, Jeannine Marion and Myrtle Shahan; 3rd, Jean Annable; door, Claire Marchand.

Loyalists to take part in special church service at St. Paul's

PRESCOTT ­ The Colonel Edward Jessup Branch of the United Empire Loyalists' Association of Canada will attend the Sunday morning service June 13 at 10 am at St. Paul's United Church at the corner of George and Dibble streets.

Don Galna will speak on the history of Methodism in the area and about Barbara Heck, the founder of Methodism in North America.

A brown-bag lunch will take place after the service at The Blue Church, where Heck and many Loyalists are buried. Members and friends are invited to attend.

Budget is good or bad news depending on reassessment

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - "The bad news is everyone's assessment went up," Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Treasurer Russell Trivett said as he laid out the first and second reading of the township's 2004 budget Monday night.

Homeowners in Edwardsburgh /Cardinal whose property assessment did not go up will pay less in municipal taxes in 2004, while those whose assessment went up might be paying significantly more.

The treasurer indicated assessment in the municipality rose $45,000,000 as a whole, with most property assessments rising on an average of 13 per cent. Due to the increased assessment, homeowners whose assessment went up the average increase of 13 per cent will be paying an estimated $137.62 more on their 2004 taxes compared to 2003.

Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated her first budget as mayor was a tough one to work on with the increase in assessment.

"We did what we could to reduce the effect of it," said Taylor. "We had to make some cuts we were really not pleased to make. Some groups like the firefighters might not be very happy with us, but this is better than the 33-per-cent increase we started with."

Ward Two Councillor Peter Martin added, "The department heads submitted us their wish lists and we gradually made adjustments and a few capital items had to be left off."

Ward One Councillor Charlie Burrell, Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey and Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan echoed the sentiment, indicating the township still required to maintain its services, and noted the increases in gas prices, property assessment and a $120,000 increase in insurance costs as key factors why most people will be paying more in their taxes.

If the assessment of a home in the former township of Edwardsburgh's assessment did not go up, homeowners can expect to pay $27.37 less in taxes on a home valued at $100,000.

Homeowners on the Cardinal water system will pay the special area rate and whose assessment has not gone up will see them save $75.80 less in than last years rates on a home valued at $100,000.

Homes which rose the average 13 per cent on their assessment will see an increase of $135.43 in their 2004 taxes.

Commercial taxes in the township will decrease by $113.71 on businesses assessed at $100,000, which were also assessed at $100,000 last year, while commercial businesses on the special rate area which are hooked up to water and sewer will decrease by $178.93 on a business assessed at $100,000, which was also assessed at the same value last year.

Total township expenditures were valued at $5,159,651, while a revenue of $2,746,653 is expected for a net total of $2,412,998 required to be raised from taxes. According to Trivett it is an increase of $295,000 from last year.

The township's largest projects include $202,500 for the paving and infrastructure costs for Glen Smail Road which are funded from reserve funds, $40,000 to replace the roof of the council chambers in Spencerville and $13,500 for three new replacement trucks at zero per cent financing over a four-year period.

Third and final reading of the budget is expected to take place at the next regular council meeting June 21 in Spencerville.

Marina misunderstanding holds up bids

SPENCERVILLE - A misunderstanding regarding the former Cardinal Marina building has left Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council seeking another option.

Township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald indicated to council it might have to look to the second highest bid after a snafu with the top bidder on the former Cardinal Marina building.

"The high bidder thought we were paying him to take it away," said McDonald.

"When I asked him for a certified cheque, he stopped and asked me 'what for, since you're paying me.'"

Council left the matter to the next committee-of-the-whole meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 16 at 7:30 pm at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre in Johnstown.

Frozen meat reported missing from home

CARDINAL ­ OPP constables McConnell and Kavanagh responded to a break and enter call on County Road 2 June 5 at about 2 am.

Sometime between 10 am and the time of the call, the residence had been entered while the occupants were at a local bar. When the complainants returned, they found the freezer door open.

Although it appeared the culprits had been in other parts of the home, all that was reported missing was packages of frozen meat. The rear door was found to have been damaged.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Grenville detachment at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Official opening of new library location to be held Saturday

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Public Library is holding its official reopening and open house this Saturday, June 12.

The event runs from 11 am until 1 pm, with the ribbon-cutting ceremony to take place at noon. The public is invited to attend.

The library moved to the former Cardinal municipal building on County Road 2 in January from its former home at the corner of Lewis and Dundas streets.

Noccey resigns from board

SPENCERVILLE - In a carefully-prepared letter, Councillor Frank Noccey has resigned from the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Library Board.

Noccey, who has been one of the library board's most vocal voices at the council table, indicated Monday his resignation was due to personal reasons. Council has yet to name a replacement from council to fill Noccey's place.

A tasty fundraiser

CARDINAL - Cardinal In Bloom will be holding its wine tasting fundraiser on Thursday, June 17 at the Cardinal Legion.

The event begins at 7:30 pm and will feature tastings from the Pelee Island Winery and include fruit and cheese snacks.

Tickets can be purchased at General Dollar and Party Sense. For information, call 657-1764, 657-1484 or 657-4507.

High finish to Cardinal Mixed Dart League season

CARDINAL ­ The Cardinal Mixed Dart League held its 2003-2004 awards banquet Saturday, May 29 at the Cardinal Legion.

Placing first in the regular season was Twisted, consisting of Tim Yandeau, Kandy Dumm and Mark MacDonald. The second place team was B.J.'s (Jerry Carr, Claude Lacasse and Norman Walker).

MEL's Diner (Mike Bergeron, Eleanor Beatson and Lorne Veley) placed first in the playoffs and third in the regular season. In second place was Heinz T-19 (Jeanne Fox Dibble and Elaine Whiteman).

Individual awards and achievements were as follows:

Most games: Jerry Carr (97); Jeanne Fox Dibble (42)

High score: Dan Whiteman (160); Bernadette Cheetham (140X2)

High three-dart finish: Barry Esson (11); Bernadette Cheetham (61)

Most bullseyes: Bonnie Wick (13)

Most improved man: Steve Dumm

Most improved woman: Jeanne Fox Dibble

High score by a spare: Garnet Summer (160); Christine Fraser (134)

Most wins by a spare: Arnie Fader (20); Melody Davison (28)

Top three-dart finish by spare: Garnet Summers (98); Melody Davison (45)

Most Tons: Mark MacDonald, Jerry Carr (21)

Perfect score: Mark MacDonald

High score in playoffs: Jerry Carr, Dan Whiteman (140)

High three-dart finish in playoffs: Garnet Summers (119)

Rookie of the Year: Stacey Marriner

Sportsperson of the Year: Lorne Veley

Thank You trophy: Mark Fraser

The league donated $500 to Cardinal Branch 105 of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Registration for the 2004-2005 season will take place Sept. 10 at 7:30 pm.

Apply now for MERC Bursary

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

The deadline for applications for the MERC Bursary is June 30. Graduating high school students who are going on to post-secondary school who are Maitland residents and who have completed 20 hours of community service ­ at least 10 of which benefit the Maitland community ­ are eligible to apply. There is also an award for Ontario scholars who meet the same criterion and who apply for the award. Application forms are available at all local high school guidance offices.

Nola Kendall is the new MERC euchre co-ordinator. Euchre will begin again at the MERC Hall every second Thursday starting June 24 from 7 to 10 pm. Admission is to be paid at the door.

Sign-up for the Maitland Swim Program is Wednesday, June 9 from 6:30 to 8 pm and Saturday, June 12 from 9 to 10:30 am.

Saturday's fundraising barbecue provided by M&M Meats to benefit MERC was a great success, with a steady stream of soccer players and garage sale shoppers having a bite to eat. Plans are already in the works for another event this fall.

Local athletes score eight top ten finishes at OFSAA

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

ETOBICOKE - Local athletes had a strong performance at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association (OFSAA) track and field championships.

Athletes from the South Grenville region managed eight top ten finishes at the meet, which was held Thursday to Saturday in Etobicoke.

South Grenville District High School coach Mark Lewis was happy with the showing from the Giants' lone competitor in the meet Erica Kamenz.

"It was a good OFSAA," said Lewis. "I think Erica is a little disappointed, but I certainly wasn't. In the long jump she hit her longest jump off her wrong foot and then on her last jump it was a monster, probably a 4.85 (metres) but she sat back when she landed. In the triple jump, she was jumping right with everyone, but she just didn't hit that big one. Sixth place in Ontario is an awesome thing for a little kid from Spencerville. She's young and strong as a horse and really keen about it and she's just a good nice kid on top of it."

Kamenz didn't let down as she scored a sixth place finish in the midget girls triple jump with a distance of 10.07 metres and an 11th place finish in the midget girls long jump with a leap of 4.43 metres.

For Kamenz, the meet didn't go quite as she planned.

"It was okay, I guess," said Kamenz. "I didn't really do as well as I would have liked. I didn't PB (personal best) and my long jump was bad and triple jump was alright. I'm hoping to improve for next year; Mrs. Spence thinks I can do an 11 (metres in the triple jump) and a 5 (metres in the long jump). I'm looking forward to next season."

Grenville Christian College also managed to bring home some bragging rights with a pair of top ten finishes at the championships. Kevin Puddicombe was the Lions' top finisher at the meet, placing fourth in the junior boys pole vault competition with a height of 4.20 metres. Fellow Lion Mark Farnsworth finished 12th in the same event with a height of 2.80 metres. Blake Chauvin scored GCC's other top ten finish at the meet with an eighth place finish in the junior boys pole vault competition clearing a height of 3.60 metres.

Other South Grenville-area athletes had strong performances at the meet such as Matt Leeder (Maitland) of TISS, who had the strongest local finish of the meet, winning the midget boys 3,000-metres with a time of 9:11.21 and finishing second in the midget boys 1,500-metres in 4:08.52.

Prescott's Matt Deeks also had a strong showing at the meet for St. Mary Catholic High School, finishing fourth in the junior boys 400-metres in 53.34 and eighth in the junior boys 200-metres in 23.84.

Maitland's Graham Young scored a 10th place finish in the junior boys triple jump with a leap of 12.27 metres.

Kamenz wins category at early bird triathlon

OTTAWA - Erica Kamenz of Spencerville started off her summer triathlon season on the right foot as she won the women's 16-17 category (as a 15-year-old) at the Ottawa Early Bird triathlon May 22 at Carleton University.

The South Grenville District High School Grade 9 student completed the 22.2-kilometre bike, five-kilometre run and 500-metre swim in a time of 1:20:07.

Kamenz finished 108th overall and was the 21st woman to cross the line; she was also the top finisher from Leeds and Grenville.

The Spencerville native managed to balance competing in the triathlon with her continued success in high school track and field, which saw her advance to the Ontario championships last weekend in Toronto.

Van Luit steps down as Jr. B Rangers general manager

CARDINAL - South Grenville Jr. B Rangers coach Rod Simmons will be taking on the general manager's duties of the team after Dennis Van Luit stepped down from the post.

Van Luit resigned last week after two years with the club, which saw the Rangers break a four-year playoff drought this season, before being eliminated in four straight games to the division champion Brockville Tikis.

Van Luit indicated the decision to step down was something he felt he should do.

"I'm just going to take some time off from it now," Van Luit told The Journal. "It's a great organization and I couldn't say anything bad about them, but I didn't think I could put 100 per cent into it. With work and family commitments I couldn't put the time I would have liked into the job, so I stepped back and let Rod (Simmons) fill the role."

Van Luit was honoured this year as he was named a first team all-star for the Rideau Division as the general manager.

Van Luit was quick to credit Simmons with a lot of the team's success and feels his new role as general manager and coach would be a good choice for the organization.

"I think Rod (Simmons) will do very well," said Van Luit. "We were happy with
what we saw last year, and he's a good coach and motivator who brought a lot of people into the organization. He should have a good core back, but it will likely be a young team again."

SGMHA NEWS by the SGMHA executive

Congratulations to our new coaches. The selection committee has made their tough decisions, and the following coaches will be behind the benches of our South Grenville teams: atom B rep., Brett Stufko; peewee B. rep., Ryan Hayes; peewee B house league, Mike Garswood; bantam B rep., Greg Williams; bantam B house league, Terry Kirkey; minor midget B rep., Allister Brown; and major midget B rep., Brian Armstrong.

Anyone wishing to coach a house league team for the upcoming season should contact Joe Francica at 925-2730.

Anyone with hockey sweaters or goalie equipment that have not been returned to the SGMHA should call Carole Dubeau at 657-1923.

We are making some changes to the layout and content of our Web site. Make sure to visit www.sgmha.com often to see what is happening with your minor hockey association.

RSL Kings name new executive

PRESCOTT - The Rideau-St. Lawrence Kings AA regional hockey team has elected its new executive for the 2004-05 season.

Karen Conquer will take on the role of president, while Gerald Beuman will be her first vice-president and Dave Van Stralen will be her second vice-president. Ray Labelle is the past-president.

Other members of the executive include Treasurer/Referee-in-Chief Mike Spencer, Ice Convener Anne Evans, Equipment Manager Andy Conquer, Social/Fundraising Brenda Labelle, Registrar Kelly Sullivan, Director at Large/King Day Convener Wendy Froom, Director at Large/Tournament Allan Joudoin and Director at Large/Player Development Bob Mills. The position of secretary has not been filled.

The Kings also named its coaches for the upcoming season: major atom, Dave Corkery; minor peewee, Allan Joudoin; major peewee, Steve Morden; minor bantam, Kent Wilson; major bantam, Peter Goulet; minor midget, Dave Saunders and major midget, Dominic Menard.

McFarlane sets 800-metre race record for St. Joes' at regionals

IROQUOIS - St. Joseph Catholic School athletes had a strong showing at the Leeds and Grenville Elementary School Eastern Region track and field meet Friday at Seaway District High School in Iroquois.

The Thunderbolts team was led by Torin Marcynuk and Alex Blanchette, who were named the top junior boy and top junior girl at the meet.

St. Joseph's Jamie McFarlane also had one of the meet's top moments when he set a new record in the senior boys 800-metres.

Other top Thunderbolt finishes include:

Junior Boys

Torin Marcynuk, first, 400-metres, triple jump and long jump; Jeff Moulton, first, 60-metres and 100-metres; third, 200-metres; Michael Anderson, second, 60-metres; third, 200-metres; fifth, 100-metres; Kevin Glover, third, 800-metres; fourth, 1,500-metres; Robbie Deeks, third, 1,500-metres; Cameron Verstegen, third, shot put; fourth, triple jump; (Marcynuk, Deeks, Anderson and Moulton), first, 4x100-metre relay

Junior Girls

Alex Blanchette, first, 400-metres and 800-metres; second, 1,500-metres; Allison DeDekker, first, 60-metre; second, 200-metre; third, 100-metres; Jessica Francica, first, 200-metres; second, 100-metres; Kaleigh-Su Villeneuve, first, 1,500-metres; third, 800-metres; fifth, triple jump; Hallie McFarlane, second, 800-metres; (DeDekker, Villeneuve, Blanchette, Francica), first, 2x100-metre relay

Senior Boys

Jamie McFarlane, first, 800-metres and 1,500-metres; fifth, triple jump; Mark Wynands, second, 800-metres; third, 1,500-metres; Cathan Moore, second, 400-metres; fifth, high jump; sixth, shot put; Cody Haché, second, 200-metres; fourth, high jump; Jonathan Arcand, third, 800-metres; Jason Deeks, third, 200-metres and 400-metres; (Deeks, Haché, Wynands, Moore), first, 4x100-metre relay

Senior Girls

Stephanie Beatty, first, long jump; Gen Blackburn, second, 800-metres; Lindsay Miller, sixth, 400-metres and 800-metres; Melanie McEwan, fifth, 1,500-metres; Shanly Beatty, fourth, triple jump; Jennifer Bernard, third, long jump; (Stephanie Beatty, Maria Iligan, Jessie Hylands, Bernard), third, 4x100-metre relay.

Six goals for Heykoop in Kinsmen win

PRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Soccer Association continued its season battling the elements which caused all games on June 1 to be cancelled.

Among the highlights for the second week of the season was a six-goal performance by Nicholas Heykoop of Prescott Kinsmen in Under-10 action.

Results for the week of May 31:

Under-16

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 2

Kevin Beach (2)

D.W.J. Plumbing and Sons 0

No goal scorers

Hartley Sports 3

Chad Hyland (2), Orry Thorpe

Grenville Towing 2

Matt Deeks, Brandon Amell

Canadian Tire 6

Patrick Peladeau (2), Curtis Biccum (2), Jacob Casselman, Brandon Spencer

Watermark Printing 1

Joshua Whelan

Gateway Packaging 3

Clayton Dunnington (2), Andrew Wessel

Southport 0

No goal scorers

Gateway Packaging 2

Dunnington (2)

Canadian Tire 0

No goal scorers

D.W.J Plumbing and Sons 4

Sean Dobbie (2), Cody Haché (2)

Watermark Printing 1

Kailee Byers

Southport 3

Hank Heykoop (2), Ryan Armstrong

Grenville Towing 2

Amell, Brock Murphy

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 2

Sebastian Last, Colton Reid

Hartley Sports 0

No goal scorers

Under-12

Shriners 6

Matthew Suatac (2), Cody Patenaude, David Suatac, Jacob Hayes, Coleman Colpitts

Beach Home Hardware 2

Scott Stephenson, Jamie Sturgeon

Grenville Castings 5

Sean Perrin (4), Westley Moulton

B.W. Freer Electrical 1

Ethan Zahn

Colour Pallette 3

Troy Armstrong (2), Chelsea Amell

Mac's Convenience Stores 2

Joshua Bailey, Sloan Jarvis

Giant Tiger 2

Dilon Stoddard, John Jackson

Mac's Convenience Stores 1

Taylor Garswood

Colour Pallette 3

Mitchell Grant (2), Armstrong

Seaway Valley Pharmacy 2

Drew Johnston, Josh Brown

Grenville Castings 6

Perrin (3), Brendan O'Hanlon, Moulton, Dylan Render

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 2

Lebrun (2)

Seaway Valley Pharmacy 5

Ronnie Harrison (2), Chad McAuley, Drew Johnston, Cameron Saddler-Roderick

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 3

Devon Lebrun (2), Curtis
Moeller

Beach Home Hardware 4

Abigail Bush (2), Richard Champagne, Sturgeon

Giant Tiger 0

No goal scorer

Shriners 4

Tyson Lefebvre (2), Patenaude
(2)

Hansen's Kavity Kickers 1

Skylar Fraser

Hanen's Kavity Kickers 8

Michael Lawless (3), Sean Blackburn (2), Damien Van Hyning, Fraser

B.W. Freer Electrical 3

Zahn (2), Tommy Carr

Under-10

Danani Flooring 7

Tyson Bertrend (3), Paul DeJong (2), Chris Hendriks, Alex Boswall

Cassidy's Engraving 4

Amir-Reza Hajarii (2), A.J. Larocque, Tyler Simpson

Playit Star 2

Adrian Dalrymple (2)

Mac's Convenience Stores 0

No goal scorers

Royal Bank 2

Aaron Scott, Matthew Courtney

TD Canada Trust 1

Spencer Cook

Grenville Pharmacy 3

Alex Stevenson (2), Taylor Byers

Splash Well Drilling 0

No goal scorers

Grenville Pharmacy 8

Stevenson (3), Connor Mackey (2), Byers, Dylan Dobbie, Dalrymple

Playit Star 1

John Hayman

Cassidy's Engraving 2

Larocque, James

Prescott Kiwanis 0

No goal scorers

TD Canada Trust 1

Patrick Purcell

Danani Flooring 0

No goal scorers

Prescott Kinsmen 6

Nicholas Heykoop (6), Patrick Spencer

Splash Well Drilling 0

No goal scorers

Prescott Kinsmen 2

Heykoop, Mitchell Conklin

Prescott Kiwanis 0

No goal scorers

Royal Bank 5

Nick Ladouceur, Scott, Sarah Norton, Courtney

Mac's Convenience Stores 0

No goal scorers

Under-8

Compendium Group Inc. 6

David Armstrong (3), Jennifer Hoogwerf, Jonathan Beck, Austin Wickware

M.T.J.B. 0

No goal scorers

St. Lawrence Printing 6

Curtis Ross (3), Zack Shankar (2), Mason Wyatt

Hometown Heating 3

Jesse Kennedy (2), Lane
Bailey

Tropical Pools & Spas 5

John Lawless (4), Phillip
Boyd

Playit Star 2

Cameron Smith (2)

Windmill Web Inc. 1

Garrett Knapp

Prescott IDA 0

No goal scorers

Under-6

Under-6 games from Tuesday, June 1 were rained out.

Giants drop pair at EOSSAA

KINGSTON ­ It was not the way South Grenville District High School's senior girls soccer team wanted to end its season.

The Giants lost both of their games at the Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association championships May 26.

South Grenville opened with a tough 1-0 loss to Renfrew. "We should have won that
one," said Giants coach Scott Baird. "We missed three open nets."

In South Grenville's second game of the day, Sara Watt scored to give the Giants a 1-0 lead over Le Citadel. After tying the score, Le Citadel got the go-ahead goal when South Grenville's keeper was "booted in the ribs" by an opposing player, according to Baird. "That took the wind out of our sails," he added.Le Citadel went on to win 4-1.

Although the coach acknowledged the year ended on a disappointing note, Baird said the season was a success. The senior team won the Leeds and Grenville title at home May 20.

Local athletes to take part in track and field meet Friday

BROCKVILLE - Athletes from elementary schools across the South Grenville area will be participating in the Leeds and Grenville Elementary School Athletic Association track and field championships this Friday at Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville.

The meet runs from 9 am until 5 pm with awards for the top junior boy, top junior girl, top senior boy and top senior girl handed out at approximately 4:30 pm.

In order to take part in the meet an athlete is required to have finished in the top four
of their regional track and field meet last week.

GFGC hosting archery carp derby Saturday on river

MAYNARD - The Grenville Fish and Game Club will be hosting its third annual spring archery carp derby this Saturday, June 12.

The derby will be held along the banks of the St. Lawrence River with weigh-ins held between 4:30 pm and 6 pm at the clubhouse on North Campbell Road, just south of Maynard.

Fishing can begin in Canadian waters at dawn, while those fishing in American waters must wait until midnight. Top prize in the event is $500, while the second place finisher will receive $150 and the third place finisher will get $50. Tickets are available in South Grenville at the Maynard Store.

Sports Hall of Fame Golf Tournament at PGC Saturday

PRESCOTT - The Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame will be holding its annual golf tournament Saturday at the Prescott Golf Club.

The tournament caps off Hall of Fame activities which will see two South Grenville area athletes, National Hockey League veteran Todd Gill and former Prescott hockey player, coach and general manager Joe Doyle, be recognized for their achievements.

Awards will also be presented for the team of the year, athlete of the year, coach of the year and volunteer of the year at Thursday's dinner at CJ's in Brockville. Several local nominees are up for awards.

All content is copyright 2004 The Prescott Journal. No reproduction permitted without written permission.