VOL. 174, NO. 31~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ August 4, 2004

Festival closes with high hopes

Second Shakespeare season ends with higher numbers

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Shakespeare Company's 2004 season had many obstacles to overcome: rainy weather, mosquitoes, and small first-week audiences. But by closing night Saturday, it was clear to organizers this season's performance of Shakespeare's The Comedie of Errors was more successful than the company's first offering.

Although overall attendance figures were not available at press time, festival chairman Ken Durand says attendance was "way ahead" for this year's festival, which attracted just under 2,000 people.

He also said that, in light of the variable weather during the festival's three-week run, the attendance is very impressive. "We had great attendance last weekend (July 24-25) and for some of this last week," he said. He also mentioned he thought the audience would have continued to build if not for the bad weather Thursday and Friday nights.

"We got rained out last night (Friday night)," said Durand, adding that even though the actors moved into the company's tent to continue the show, the driving rain and wind prevented the company from continuing the show. Audience members were given the option of a refund or a free ticket to the following night's show. "We had people say: 'The festival is so good, just keep the money as a donation,'" said Durand.

Although the company couldn't control the weather, by all accounts all other aspects of the festival were first-rate. "I think that it (the festival) went very, very well," said Deborah Smith, Artistic Director for the festival. "I'm just thrilled with the town for supporting us."

Several audience members who attended the closing night performance Saturday had seen the play several times. Astrid Strader, a Prescott resident who saw the play three times, said she felt privileged to have such high-calibre theatre so close to home. "How often can you say, after you come home from work, that 'I'm going to walk down the street and see Shakespeare," she said. She added that each time she saw the show, she appreciated it more.

Local bed and breakfast owner Lyle Behnke also saw The Comedie of Errors three times. "You get more out of it (the play) every time you see it," he said.

Board members of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival were also very pleased with how the festival went this year. "I thought in many areas it was spectacular," said board member and former Prescott mayor Sandra Lawn. "I think it's obvious from this last night the acting and directing was really first-rate."

Lawn also felt The Comedie of Errors had a wide appeal for Prescott. "It was a joy for people of all ages," she said. "My grandson of six just loved it!"

Durand feels optimistic the festival will continue to grow in the future. "I think Deborah has proven she can put together an excellent show," he said.

"Now, our goal is to make this (the festival) a permanent fixture in Prescott."

For next year, Durand says he would like the festival to include two Shakespeare plays, each with a three-week run. "We've proven people in Eastern Ontario will come to see Shakespeare," he said. "Now we have to keep the ball rolling."

THIS WEEK

Fort hosts military day for children Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ Children's Military Heritage Day is this Saturday (Aug. 7) at Fort Wellington.

A cannon-firing at 11 am marks the start of special activities. There will be rifle demonstrations. A period blacksmith and costumed gardener will be on site; crafts will take place in the blockhouse, and visitors will get a chance to sample soldier's stew.

A program in which kids can enlist in the British military for an afternoon of fun runs from 1 to 3:30 pm. The program will include a drill and mock battle as well as bobbing for apples and potato sack races and the daily ration of stew.

Parents can drop off their children for the afternoon program (registration is required for the drop-offs) or stay and join in the fun. Regular admission fees are in effect.

For more information, call 925-2896.

Fort Wellington National Historic Site is operated by Parks Canada.

Children's day is also on Windmill calendar

EDWARDSBURGH ­ A children's day will also be held this Saturday, Aug. 7 at the Battle of the Windmill site east of Prescott.

The event, held in conjunction with Fort Wellington, runs from 10 am to 4 pm. A scavenger hunt will take place all day.

Get a taste for Ribfest

BROCKVILLE ­ Ribfest returns to Hardy Park in Brockville this weekend.

The annual event will be open Friday from 4 to 10 pm, Saturday from 9 am to 10 pm and Sunday from 11:30 am to 7 pm. In addition to sampling mouth-watering ribs prepared by several entrants from Canada and the United States, the festival includes live entertainment, live and silent auctions, volleyball tournaments and the GM/Ottawa Senators Street Tour featuring Spartacat on Sunday.

Proceeds from Ribfest go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville, which serves the Prescott area. For more information, call 345-0281 or visit www.ripnet.com/nonprofit/bbbslg.

Local crops appear on track, but prices are falling behind

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

SOUTH GRENVILLE - Area corn crops have overcome a wet spring and cool summer, but with corn prices taking a big dip, farmers might face their biggest challenge this fall when it comes time to sell.

"Everyone would rather have a big crop at a small price than a small crop at a big price," said Geri Kamenz, vice-president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.

Kamenz, a Ventnor-area farmer, cites a simple reason for the fall in corn prices. "The USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) has projected US corn production as the highest in history," he said. "Therefore, our prices are a lot lower."

Prices for fall new harvest corn have fallen from a high of $180 per tonne in June to a current price of $134 per tonne as of July 30.

However, Kamenz emphasizes the area crops are doing very well - particularly in light of the less-than-ideal growing conditions of this summer.

"The health of the (corn) crop is on par with where it was last year," he said, "and last year is one of the best growing seasons anyone can remember."

Peter Heusser, a corn and soybean farmer in the Spencerville area, believes his crops are doing well. "We're a little behind from last year, but the crops are all in good shape," he said "I would say the corn is where it should be on an average year."

Heusser emphasizes more heat is needed for an optimum corn crop. "We need average to above-average temperatures (in August) to put crops where they should be," he said.

An important determining factor for the current status of corn and soybean crops is when they were planted in the spring. "Our later corn (planted after second week of May) is not as good as our earlier corn," said Heusser. "Our early soybeans are looking good, but behind where they should be."

Bryan Cook, a private agronomist working in Spencerville, agrees the soybean crop is not as good as it could be. "The soybeans are just about average," he said. "They've probably suffered more (from the cool weather) than the corn."

Cook emphasized farmers need heat most to ensure a good harvest. "We need a little more heat. If we keep rolling with the warm days, there should be no problem,"

Brouseville corn and soybean farmer Fred Taylor believes his corn and soybeans are doing very well. "I would say that my crops are as good as they were last year, and maybe even a little better," he said. However, he agreed the lower corn prices are discouraging. "Everything looks good - except the prices!"

Still, Kamenz stresses area farmers would rather have a good crop than a high price for it. "It's no fun harvesting half a crop or a third of a crop," he said.

PSAC backs Parks Canada, Customs workers

Union shows solidarity at local rallies Saturday

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT- The torrential rains of Saturday morning did not stop Ottawa-Gatineau members of the Parks Canada Agency of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) from holding rallies in Prescott Saturday to bring attention to an impending strike action at Parks Canada.

"The conciliation board has delayed a response to our proposed contract until the 10th of August," said Ed Cashman, regional executive vice president of the national capital region of PSAC, at a rally held at Fort Wellington "We can't strike until seven days after that." A strike can occur Aug. 17.

Twenty-six Parks Canada Agency PSAC representatives from Ottawa-Gatineau attended rallies at Fort Wellington and the Johnstown Customs offices. There were no local representatives of Parks Canada at the rally. "If local workers didn't show up (to work) today, they would be disciplined. We came because we have the day off," said Cashman.

This past spring, Parks Canada employees voted 89 per cent in favour of going on strike if the new contract is unacceptable. Lesley Humber, a team member of the Parks Canada Agency collective bargaining team, says a variety of issues have made a Parks Canada strike a real possibility.

She says two of the largest groups employed by Parks Canada - the general labour and general service workers - get paid 20 per cent less in wages than comparable workers working at provincial or private sites like provincial parks.

Lack of participation with contract negotiations by Parks Canada has made PSAC feel a strike may occur soon. "We started the process (contract negotiations) last October (when the previous contract expired,) said Cashman. "Since October, there has been no negotiations with Parks Canada. The law requires both partners sit down, but that hasn't happened." Parks Canada employees' previous contract expired Sept. 30 of last year.

Increases in pay rates are a pivotal issue for Parks Canada. Parks Canada released a contract in response to PSAC's initial offer on July 15. It offered wage increases of 2.25, two, and 1.5 per cent over the next three years. "That (increase) doesn't even keep pace with inflation." said Humber. The contract was rejected.

If a strike occurs, it could affect more than 4,800 Parks Canada employees across Canada, and 500 members in Eastern Ontario, including employees at Fort Wellington National Historic Site and workers at sites along the Rideau Canal.

The spinoff effects of staging a strike during high tourist season at Parks Canada sites are not lost on PSAC. "We are very aware of this (impact of strike on tourism)," said Humber. "We hope municipalities and tourism associations put pressure on the government to help us get a contract that avoids a strike action."

The impact of a Parks Canada strike on their summer student seasonal employees was also addressed by PSAC officials. "Clearly, we have a commitment to our (full-time seasonal) members first," said Humber. Summer students are not part of the PSAC union, and should a strike occur, PSAC officials say students will be sent home with pay.

PSAC is unsure what sort of strike could take place if the union votes to strike.

"We could have a strategic strike, which would take a percentage of our

membership out (to strike)" said Humber. She adds PSAC is prepared to authorize a full general strike of all Parks Canada employees if necessary.

PSAC also held a brief rally at the Johnstown Customs offices to show solidarity for the Customs Excise Union Douanes Accise (also members of PSAC), who are undertaking job action themselves over the long weekend in response to wage and safety issues the union has with the federal government.

The Parks Canada Agency of PSAC held rallies in several Eastern Ontario communities Saturday.

Brockville, Leeds and Grenville VON to receive new provincial funding

BROCKVILLE - The Brockville Leeds and Grenville branch of the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) is receiving $83,283 in new funding for community support services from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

Of the funding announced last week, $25,080 is designated to provide funding for transportation required by VON community support services clients.

"There are two reasons this (increased transportation funding) is important," stated Ruth Kitson, executive director of the Brockville Leeds and Grenville Branch of the VON. "We have clients that can't afford it (out of town transportation) at all. We also have clients that can't afford 12 trips a month for things like dialysis."

Kitson emphasized the extra transportation money will be given to volunteers who drive clients to medical appointments and not given directly to VON clients.

In addition, $40,000 has been designated to assist in the relocation of the VON Brockville community services site.

"The site we're in now is very crowded and not wheelchair accessible," stated Kitson. She added the new site, which has not been selected yet, will be larger and wheelchair accessible.

Kitson said the increased funding will be a great benefit to the Brockville Leeds and Grenville Branch of the VON. "Now, we have no means of subsidizing services without fundraising," she said. "We'll still do fundraising, but not as much."

She also emphasized all the increased funding will go to expand services in the Brockville area, even though the VON recently announced a merger between the VON Lanark branch and the VON Brockville, Leeds and Grenville branch. "All money designated for the Brockville area stays in the Brockville office."

Volunteers are invited to tea

PRESCOTT ­ An afternoon tea for Prescott Hot Meals on Wheels program volunteers will take place this Friday, Aug. 6 at 1:30 pm at the health centre auditorium on King Street West.

Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman is scheduled to be on hand at the event being hosted by the VON to recognize volunteers for their efforts over the past 30-plus years. Two scrolls of appreciation are to be presented.

Volunteers are encouraged to bring a spouse or friend to the tea.

Farm Family Day being held today

GRENVILLE COUNTY ­ Today (Wednesday, Aug. 4) is Grenville Farm Family Day.

The annual celebration of agriculture is being hosted by Andrew, Bill and Douglas Lawrence and families at Lawrenceholme Farm, 3326 County Rd. 26, about three kilometres west of Spencerville.

A guided tour of the various crops grown at the farm begins at 10:30 am. Trial and demonstration plots will be included; seed company representatives will be on hand.

A beef barbecue will follow the crop tour. Milk, cheese, ice cream and coffee will be supplied by the local dairy producers committee. Visitors are asked to bring a salad or dessert to share at the barbecue.

The noon-hour program will also feature award presentations; leather show halters will be given to first-year 4-H members with Holstein calves.

In the afternoon, concurrent programs for different ages and interests will be offered. The dairy portion will include a discussion on the new national livestock identification program. There will also be activities for children and the ladies.

Farm Family Day is co-sponsored by the Grenville Soil and Crop Improvement Association, Grenville Dairy Producers, Grenville Federation of Agriculture and the Grenville Holstein Club.

Wheelchair stolen from van

PRESCOTT ­ A wheelchair was taken from a parked van in the north end of town, the Prescott Police Service reports.

The theft at a driveway on Churchill Road was reported Sunday. The complainant has a disability and requires the use of the chair. The wheelchair is valued at $500. Constable Moe Morrissette is investigating.

Officers with the municipal police department investigated 62 incidents and two motor vehicle collisions during the week of July 26.

On July 29, a King Street East resident told police someone had sprayed a substance onto the roof and right side of her 2000 Chevrolet Cavalier. It is believed the substance is similar to foam insulation spray. The damage estimate is $800. The investigating officer is Constable Richard Champagne.

A cardinal resident advised police July 26 a medicine case had been stolen from her vehicle parked at the harbour. The case contained a quantity of medication. Constable Champagne is investigating.

Constable Mike Ostrander is investigating a case of mischief reported July 31. Twelve lawn ornaments were taken from a Park Street residence and smashed on the road.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences is asked to contact the Prescott Police Service at 925-4252 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

See the islands and fall colours

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ The United Way Colours of Autumn Boat Cruise will set sail from Gananoque Boat Lines in Gananoque on the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 26.

The three-hour excursion to see the fall colours along the St. Lawrence River does not include a stop at Boldt Castle.

Proceeds will go the United Way of Leeds and Grenville 2004 fundraising campaign. There are 25 member agencies in the united counties area that receive financial support from the local United Way.

Cruise tickets are available at Doyle's on King Street in Prescott or at the United Way office on George Street in Brockville.

Tickets do not include transportation to and from Gananoque.

For more information, call the United Way office at 342-8889.

The 2004 campaign will be launched next month.

MP Gord Brown says supply management is the way to go

BROCKVILLE ­ Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown stands behind his commitment to support supply-managed agricultural commodities, according to a news release issued Tuesday.

Brown was responding to word the World Trade Organization had plans that would require cuts to export subsidies and import duties on farm products. The plans are not finalized; negotiations are to begin in September.

The Conservative MP indicated his message to Ottawa on behalf of farmers in the riding will be clear.

"I will support supply management to deliver a high-quality product to consumers for a fair price with a reasonable return to the producer."

The new MP has opened his main constituency office at 27 King St. E. in Brockville.

Brown defeated two-term Liberal MP Joe Jordan in the June 28 federal election.

Photo is postponed

Due to space constraints this week, the 1945 Prescott High School photo will not be published until next week.

The Journal apologizes for the delay.

Prescott council agrees to five-year deal for third floor of town hall

T.R. Leger School to occupy space in time for start of upcoming academic year

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has approved the terms of an agreement that will see the third floor of the Dibble Street municipal building leased to T.R. Leger School.

Council voted in favour of the five-year agreement at a special meeting held Thursday afternoon. The Prescott campus of the continuing and adult education school is planning to move from its current location at South Grenville District High School in time for the start of the upcoming academic year in early September.

The agreement will see the town receive total net payments of $161,000.

A week-and-a-half prior to the special meeting, council agreed to award two contracts for third floor work. The contract for carpentry, drywall and flooring was awarded to D.C. Snelling for about $50,000.

G.C.-Toshack was awarded the electrical and mechanical contract for $23,350.

The two companies were the lone bidders in the respective tenders.

The municipality has allotted $85,000 for the third floor renovations.

The work to be completed by early September includes two classrooms, a new washroom and administrative office. Other work, including a computer room, is to be completed by a later date.

The lease includes a 60-day escape clause. A councillor told The Journal the school would have to pay $40,000 to the town if it were to opt out of the lease within the first two years of the agreement. A call to CAO Robert Haller to confirm that information had not been returned as of press time Tuesday.

In the event more than 15 parking spaces are needed by the school, it will bear the costs associated with creating additional spaces.

T.R. Leger is operated by the Upper Canada District School Board.

Four of seven council members attended the special meeting Thursday. The Journal was advised of the meeting half an hour before it started.

Many are willing to go behind bars

But more volunteers needed for Round-up for Research

PRESCOTT ­ The county jail will soon be overflowing with prisoners as part of the Round-up for Research fundraiser.

The event, which will be held Aug. 20 at O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer, involves volunteer "offenders" who are arrested and appear before a judge who will find them guilty and sentence them to serve one hour in a mock county jail at the grocery store. While in jail, the prisoners call their colleagues, family and friends in an effort to raise bail money.

Proceeds from the event go to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, which funds research and provides services for those living with kidney disease.

As of Friday, the list of offenders included Bob Mills, Dave Travis, Hugh George, Jeanne Chaters, Judi Baril, Mike Baril, Mike O'Keefe, Ray Young, Renate Kirkey, Rob Nixon, Robert Haller, Robert Lawn, Sandra Lawn, Ryan Hayes, Holly Howard, Norrie Spence, Ken Rundle, Lewis Beach and John McCrea.

The posse that will arrest the offenders at pre-arranged times will consist of Holly Howard, Cristal Beattie and Mike Ostrander.

Event co-ordinator Lesley Hubbard said she has received a positive response to the round-up. Hubbard is seeking 35 people to be arrested. The goal is to raise $10,000.

Participants will be given pledge sheets they can use prior to the day of the event. They will receive mug shots for their efforts.

To volunteer or for more information about the event, call 925-5683.

Prescott student employment centre reports fewer placements this season

PRESCOTT - The Human Resource Centre for Students in Prescott placed fewer student jobs in 2004 than in previous summers.

"We posted 77 full-time, part-time and odd jobs, which were all filled," said Mary Ellen Hough, student employment officer at the centre.

This marked 33 fewer jobs than were posted and filled by the centre in 2003.

Hough emphasized the jobs posted with the centre were from many different fields, not from just one industry or sector of the job marketplace.

In addition to placing students in summer work, the centre also completed a variety of workshops and activities designed to increase the job knowledge of student employees.

"We held six workshops to help students with resumes, cover letters and interview skills," Hough said. "In addition, we held seven workshops on workplace health and safety."

The centre placed students in jobs in Prescott, Cardinal and Spencerville as well as the surrounding rural areas. They were able to find work for students as far away as Kemptville.

In addition, the centre undertook a number of community outreach activities to get the word out about the centre to students and employees in the area. "We held booths and public information sessions at the high schools, both in Prescott and in Kemptville," said Hough.

The Prescott Human Resource Centre for Students is closing for the summer this Friday Aug. 6.

Music at the mill

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Brockville Irish Musicians will be featured this Thursday, Aug. 5 at 7:30 pm at the Spencerville Mill.

This will be the second in a series of three concerts presented by the Spencerville Mill Foundation.

Admission is free; donations are welcome. Bring a lawn chair.

Refreshments will be sold.

Man burned in accident

RIVERVIEW HEIGHTS ­ A 45-year-old Prescott man was burned in a workplace incident last Wednesday.

Two men were moving an old oil tank at D.L. Construction and Roofing on Merwin Lane at about 12:15 pm, according to Grenville County OPP.

A worker reportedly used a cigarette lighter and then there was an explosion, police reported.

The injured man was taken to Brockville General Hospital and then transported to the burn unit of Kingston General Hospital. He sustained first- and third-degree burns to his arms and face, according to police. The injuries were not considered life-threatening.

The Ministry of Labour was called in to investigate. Ministry spokesperson Belinda Sutton told The Journal Friday the worker was trying to determine if a 200-gallon steel tank contained flammable liquids or vapours.

Neither the OPP nor the ministry released the name of the injured worker.

When asked if there would be any charges, Sutton indicated the investigation is continuing.

In response to the incident, the ministry issued two orders under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The company complied with the first order, and a stop work order was issued the next day.

Prescott Masons present flags to Ogdensburg counterparts

OGDENSBURG ­ Canadian and Ontario flags were presented by the Prescott Masons to Ogdensburgh Acacian Lodge #128 in June.

Carl Galbraith, immediate past master of Central Lodge #100, GRC, AF and AM, Prescott as well as grand steward, Grand Lodge of Masons in Ontario, made the presentation in Ogdensburg. He explained he had been having a great deal of difficulty getting an American flag for the Prescott lodge about three years ago. The secretary of Lodge 128 heard about it and presented the Prescott lodge with a vintage flag that included an official document indicating the flag had flown over the U.S. Congress in Washington and was presented to the Ogdensburgh Lodge #128 by Congressman Robert McEwen in the 1960s.

"That's a real 'old glory' and we're proud to display it in our lodge," said Galbraith.

Last winter, the secretary of Lodge #128 asked a Prescott lodge member where a Canadian flag could be purchased; the old one was faded and was almost unpresentable, according to the secretary. As a token of friendship and brotherhood, Galbraith presented the two flags on behalf of the Prescott lodge.

"Although I can't claim either one of these flags has ever flown over our Parliament in Ottawa or ran up a flag pole over your Congress in Washington, D.C., I will claim they practically flew by our Parliament in Ottawa in my friend's car the day we acquired them," Galbraith remarked. "That's about the best I could do," he added.

The Canadian and Ontario flags are on display in the Lodge Room of the Ogdensburg Masonic Lodge.

Ottawa real estate investor still has a positive outlook for Prescott

PRESCOTT ­ Chi Ho still has high hopes for Prescott.

The Ottawa resident has recently purchased 29 units at Prescott Place.

The recent acquisition includes seven commercials on the ground floor of the Water Street complex.

Ho is offering residential tenants the option to either purchase their unit or lease to own.

By leasing to own, the tenant would be guaranteed no rent increase for five years.

Tenants who do not wish to select either option will not be forced to move, according to Ho.

Frank Whiten of Homelife DLK Real Estate noted no tenants attended a recent information session at which they could ask Ho questions about the situation.

Whiten, a former Prescott councillor who has also operated a number of businesses in town over the years, also pointed out Ho also owns the Federal Building on Centre Street. He continues to seek tenants for that property, which houses Canada Post and the Human Resources and Skills Development Canada office.

Ho said he is offering professionals such as doctors and dentists lower rates for the commercial space at Prescott Place. He would like to see commercial tenants that would benefit Prescott Place residents.

He purchased the former funeral home at the corner of Edward and Dibble streets a couple of years ago. The sale of the property to another party is being finalized.

Although the funeral home purchase did not go as he had planned, Ho remains positive about Prescott and its prospects. He expects the community will continue to attract more people from the Ottawa area, adding the town has a lot to offer residents who work in the city but would prefer to live somewhere else.

GRENVILLE COUNTY OPP NEWS

Off-road biker apprehended by way of citizen's arrest

EDWARDSBURGH ­ Two males have been arrested in connection with the theft of two off-road motorcycles from a Buckwheat Road residence just north of Spencerville.

The theft was reported Monday at about 7:30 pm. At about 12:30 am Tuesday, the complainants followed the abandoned railway line into Prescott and found the motorcycles were being driven by two males beside the golf course. The complainants made a citizen's arrest; the other driver fled on foot and was not located.

Police have arrested and charged a 17-year-old Prescott male and have another adult male under arrest. The other driver has not been found. Further charges are pending. Constables Foley and Blanchette are investigating.

South Edwardsburg recreation area trashed overnight

JOHNSTOWN ­ Considerable damage was caused to the community centre and pool area in Johnstown Saturday night or Sunday morning. Garbage cans were emptied into the pool, the pool storage area had been entered and items were removed and thrown around the property. There were also numerous beer bottles broken in the picnic area. The pool remained closed until the clean-up was completed.

Generator stolen from garage

AUGUSTA ­ A break-in that occurred between July 26-28 at a garage on County Road 21 resulted in the loss of a 5,000w red Homelife generator and a blue tool box filled with assorted hand tools. The value of the stolen items is more than $1,000. Entry was gained through the rear door of the garage. Constable Runciman is the investigating officer. Anyone with information is asked to contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Be wary of door-to-door sales

JOHNSTOWN ­ Constable Butcher responded to a call about a suspicious male in the County Road 2 area on the afternoon of July 27. A 43-year-old man who was canvassing the area seeking masonry work was spoken to, according to an OPP news release.

Police remind the public anyone conducting door-to-door sales should be able to identify himself or herself by using a business card or identification tag. It is uncommon for successful tradespeople to go door to door. Anyone who does not feel comfortable opening his or her door to a stranger should just leave the door closed.

Town police, Kelly's Beach and planning issues on agenda at committee meetings

PRESCOTT ­ Policing, Kelly's Beach and the proposed Rotary Pavilion were among the items on the agenda at last night's town committee meetings.

The Journal went to press yesterday afternoon before the start of the meetings.

Scheduled to appear before the community and protective services committee was Keep Our Police Services (KOPS), a group opposed to the disbandment of the municipal police department. KOPS was to present its petition to the committee. The proposed contract with the Ontario Provincial Police was also on last night's agenda.

Also scheduled to appear were Robert and Marilyn Bradley of Ship's Anchor Inn on St. Lawrence Street to discuss concerns relating to Kelly's Beach.

The agenda included approval of the site location and design of the Rotary pavilion near the marina building and the so-called hotel lands. The Prescott Rotary club is proposing the structure in honour of the organization's 100th anniversary.

A request for the municipality to pay for dirt needed to improve the Prince Street ball diamond was also to be discussed by the committee.

The planning and development committee was to discuss a site plan agreement for Herb Willer's condominium proposal at the corner of King and Russell streets and proposed bylaw revisions to deal with adult entertainment issues. At the request of Mayor Robert Lawn, the agenda also includes the proposed official plan review, downtown revitalization and the north-end residential subdivision area.

The next regular meeting of Prescott council is scheduled to take place Monday, Aug. 16 at 7:30 pm at town hall.

Food bank is there for those in need

PRESCOTT ­ The Food For All Food Bank on Henry Street across from the Prescott Legion serves residents of Augusta, Prescott and Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal. The food depot is open to the public Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 am to 2 pm.

Donations of non-perishable items or money are always welcome. Call 925-2444.

Sunday concert

PRESCOTT ­ Jennifer Brant and Mustang will be riding into town for the next Sunday evening concert.

The show is set for Aug. 8 at 6:30 pm at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre on Prescott's waterfront.

Admission to the community event is free; donations will be accepted.

In case of rain, the concert will be held at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"We've proven people in Eastern Ontario will come to see Shakespeare. Now we have to keep the ball rolling."

Ken Durand, St. Lawrence Shakespeare Company chairman

Editor's Notebook

A LEARNING EXPERIENCE: Relocating T.R. Leger School to the third floor of town hall (the former Prescott High School) appears to be a good fit in a number of ways. In addition to maintaining a tradition of education at that site that goes back generations, the alternative school's presence will generate revenue for the municipality.

The move is not going to enable the town to recover the cost of renovating the 73-year-old building. More than $1.2 million will have been spent by the end of this month, and that does not take into account future work (including the library, which town officials acknowledge is in need of much attention). If the school remains at town hall for the course of the five-year lease and beyond, the town should receive a decent profit from the venture. If the school leaves for whatever reason, then the town will have to find a new tenant ­ just like any other tenant.

On that subject, there have been rumblings the town has no business being in the landlord business. We would agree the municipality should not make a practice of getting into ventures in which it competes directly with the private sector. However, this arrangement with the school makes effective use of what would otherwise be vacant space and, if handled properly, might pay off for municipal ratepayers.

Although we note the district school board is paying a considerable amount of money in rent for its many continuing education campuses, we accept the explanation those facilities would not be attracting as many students because of their apprehension about returning to the classroom in a traditional high school environment.

Now that the relocation of T.R. Leger is officially in the works, wouldn't it be fitting if the Air Cadet squadron that had called the third floor of town hall its home for all those years ends up occupying T.R. Leger's space at the high school?

SHAKESPEARE'S HELPERS: The many volunteers who helped make the second season of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival a success should take a bow. The professionals who were on stage for and behind the scenes of The Comedie of Errors did a wonderful job, but the production owes a lot to the people in the community who gave of their time and welcomed the visitors (actors and audiences alike) to Prescott.

Whether the festival evolves into something much bigger than what we witnessed the past two summers remains to be seen. The quality of the production is not at issue; word-of-mouth advertising is important, but a marketing strategy with enough money to back it up will have a lot to do with the evolution of the festival.

For now, we applaud the volunteers who once again made a difference.

Tim Ruhnke

Cassette tapes bring back many childhood memories

BLAKE'S TAKES by Blake McKim

Not long ago, I was driving to work and heard a bizarre statistic quoted on the radio. Apparently, 90 per cent of kids under the age of 16 had never purchased a cassette tape. I found that statistic staggering, but then tried to think back to the last time I had actually seen a cassette tape for sale in a music store. I couldn't.

I do recall the last new cassette I bought. It was Alanis Morissette's Jagged Little Pill. I still listen to it sometimes, though it's generation-x-er anthems now sound more than a little dated.

In any case, I got to thinking about cassettes. My first real memory of them was when my aunt gave me one from Petro-Canada when I was six. (She got it free with gas - remember when that happened?) I remember riding around in her blue Taurus wagon with the tape player blaring "The Mini-Pops" (an '80s kids group that covered pop tunes). Good times.

A couple years later, my mom bought the Dirty Dancing soundtrack. To this day, every time I hear the "I had the time of my life" song, it conjures up visions of sitting in the back seat of mom's Plymouth van way more than the dance sequence between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey at the end of the movie.

Soon after that, I got my first Walkman. I played my "Rock 88" compilation tape on it until the tape broke under the pressure of being constantly rewound and fast-forwarded.

Cassettes were such a big part of my childhood. Even when other kids moved on to CDs, I still bought tapes. They were cheaper, didn't require a new, expensive machine, and I knew how to work them.

They were also familiar. The high-pitched hiss at the beginning of side one was as welcoming to me as a home-cooked meal. I also learned how to time my rewinding and fast-forwarding times so that I could get to the exact point in the tape where my desired song was. It was a skill today's kids will never have to master.

Even as cassettes fell out of fashion in the early '90s, I never really jumped on the CD bandwagon. Even though I bought a CD player, I never got into buying many CDs. Even though they would play the entire contents of the album in digitally-encoded excellence, they also took the fun out of music listening for me. Gone were the days of tape hiss and rescuing "eaten" cassettes out of my old Walkman.

I guess even CDs are passe today - fallen by the wayside in favour of MP3s. And I must admit I do download the occasional song off Kazaa. But mostly, I just listen to the radio in my car - which, coincidentally, has a cassette player.

For old times sake, I dug out some of my old tapes - The Bangles, Madonna, and the Dirty Dancing tape. I put them in my car's glove box, and someday soon, when I want to be reminded of the halcyon days of my childhood, I'll pop one into my car's tape player.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Hot streak continues: 1974

Aug. 7, 1974

* Business was up last month at the Canada Manpower Centre for Students in Prescott. The centre reported filling 11.6 per cent more job placements than in the previous July. Although there were orders for odd jobs during the recent Slave Week, employers and householders were advised to take advantage of the many willing workers available before the start of the school year.

* Prescott Coffee Shop kept its undefeated streak going with a victory over St. Lawrence College in Brockville and District Industrial Soccer League play. The win was the team's 10th in a row on the season and 28th in league play and playoffs. Scoring for Prescott were Tom Reston and Norbert Doran with two goals apiece; singles went to Luc Pena and Rob Millar.

Party to celebrate John's life

We would like to express our thanks to everyone for their expressions of sympathy and condolences since John passed away.

As promised, we are holding a party in "celebration of his life". This will be an afternoon of memories, music and fun with a chicken BBQ and a Dixieland band.

It will take place on Sunday, Sept. 5 at 44 Alta Vista Drive in Riverview Heights.

John knew the importance of the history of the area, and preserving our historic churches. This party will be a fundraiser for the restoration of St. John's Anglican Church.

Anyone interested in attending should call Beth Morris at 925-4828 by August 23.

Sexy school clothes for children ­ a parent's worst nightmare come true

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

Your daughter comes home from school one day wearing colourful jelly bracelets. She tells you the girls gave them to her at recess and each one signifies a different sexual act. Some are for hugging and kissing. Some go well beyond that. After you pick yourself up off the floor and your heart rate comes down a bit, you put your enraged parent face on and march down to see the principal and demand an explanation. He shrugs and casually says that's the way things are today.

The unfortunate thing is that this actually happened to people we know in the Ottawa Valley. The shocking thing about this story is that the daughter is in Grade 2.

You will want to remember this story as you go out to buy school supplies and especially new clothes for your son or daughter. Traditionally, it has always been the Mom that does the clothes shopping. Go to any boy's department and you'll find t-shirts with menacing skulls and other symbols of violence that have become a part of mainstream pop culture. The girl's clothes are even worse. You can't find anything that doesn't resemble what Britney Spears would wear in her concerts ­ bare midriff, hip hugging tight pants. Barely enough material there to cover a Barbie doll. Then there are the words written on them ­ sexy or hot chick. Suddenly, the Dads are taking notice and getting involved in what their kids wear to school.

That's when we become thankful we have boys. Flaming skateboarding skulls from Hell are much more appropriate than the Pre-Teen Girls Gone Wild look. At least the boys' clothes don't scream sexuality and violation. At least, not until you come across that rack of Kobe Bryant replica jerseys. As you throw your hands up in frustration your son or daughter is pleading with you to buy those clothes "because everyone's wearing them!"

If you think parents are having a hard time dealing with this imagine what the schools and especially the teachers are dealing with. Some school boards have rules and regulations dealing with dress codes while others pass that responsibility on to individual schools. Then it's up to the principal or teachers to decide what is inappropriate. On the Ottawa Carleton school Web site the dress code at each school must include the following as inappropriate ­ sexually explicit or revealing dresses; clothing with wording or graphics that are sexual, racist, profane or demeaning; clothing with wording or graphics that advocate violence, drug use or alcohol use, or clothing that the OCDSB recognizes as associated with gang membership. And oh, just to make sure everyone's butts are covered at the board, there is also a section in there that refers to the Human Rights Code and Charter of Rights and Freedoms. You know what that means. Anything goes.

In the local school district where we live, our son came home the first day of school with a phone book-sized booklet of rules and regulations. It spelled out in detail everything from discipline to dress code and let me tell you that section on dress code is very explicit. Inappropriate dress included many of the same things. There would be nothing with words or themes related to alcohol, tobacco, drug use, gang affiliations; nothing sexually oriented; no bare waist, hip or midriff or bellybutton exposure; no tube tops, see through tops or spaghetti straps; no hats, no sunglasses. Then, the good part, and remember, these rules are for the K-6 kids. No dog collars or leashes, no safety pins, chains or spikes. So much for Sid Vicious Day at the school's Winter Carnival.

On the last page of the booklet was a statement that indicated both parent and child had read and understood the rules and knew the consequences if they were broken. This had to be returned the first week of school. The rules are the rules, and there was no mention of the American Civil Liberties Union. And of course, every year the dress code has to be updated because the styles get more daring.

Some private schools are quite strict about their dress code. We enrolled our youngest son in a Christian kindergarten and they weren't even allowed to wear shorts. If we thought we were protecting our child from the immorality of public school culture then that plan backfired on us. We'll never forget that Hallmark Moment when the little five-year-old girl in his class taught him what the f-word was and what it meant. Where's the camcorder when you need it? But at least the little girl was dressed appropriately for school.

What can parents and schools do about this problem of offensive clothing at school? There is a logical and unpopular solution to this whole mess.

The school uniform.

I know, I know. The kids will have a fit. There will be a lot of crying and whining and complaining about not being allowed to wear the latest, coolest fashions. Girls won't be allowed to imitate the sexiness of Britney Spears or look like a grungy little ball of hate like Avril Lavigne. But deep down ­ and they will never admit this ­ they will be relieved. The kid whose Mom used to buy his t-shirts from Giant Tiger is not going to be ridiculed by the classmate whose father can afford the famous designer looks from Abercrombie and Fitch. Parents may be concerned about the expense of buying a school uniform but here in the U.S. you can buy very affordable standard navy pants and skirts right out of the J.C. Penney catalogue. No more fights at the beginning of the school year and no more arguing each and every morning before the school bus comes. The teachers are going to be happy because they won't have to deal with the endless sex-driven fashion shows that disrupt each class. No longer would a trip to the blackboard be like a little Paris Hilton wannabe strolling on the catwalk. The students will be looking at their books a lot more instead of all that bare skin. The principal won't have to make all these judgement calls and deal with difficult parents who think it's nobody's business if their seven-year-old look like she works nights as a stripper.

Oh, and that story about the jelly bracelets? Jewellery is included in the school dress code. A basic navy skirt won't expose pierced navels and the most you could have room for on your wrist wearing a long-sleeved white shirt is a watch.

So, we've fixed the problem of what kids should wear to school. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go get ready for Casual Friday at the office... have you seen my spiked collar and pink hairspray?

Former editor Jeffrey Morris now works in sports licensing and marketing in Seattle. He is a regular columnist for ESPN.com and is also a weekly analyst and humourist on Fox Sports Radio. You can hear his weekly radio show, Inside the CFL, on www.footballology.com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Town council has essentially endorsed police contract without knowing terms

The Editor;

And the beat goes on.

Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn and councillors Robert Pelda, Suzanne Dodge, and Jo-Anne Beckstead are continuing to neglect their constituents by proceeding with the disbandment of the Prescott Police Service.

On July 19, council approved the first and second readings of a bylaw allowing the town to sign an OPP contract. Despite the controversy that continues to swirl around the police issue in Prescott, this vote was taken without providing any notification to the public.

Monday's agenda was apparently not e-mailed out in advance to council members, the media, or to other interested parties (including myself) who are on Prescott CAO Robert Haller's regular mailing list. As it is standard procedure to e-mail the council agenda at the end of the week prior to the meeting, it seems clear certain town officials did not want those opposed to the disbandment of the Prescott Police to be notified of this item.

Although I am sure the town will use the excuse Mr. Haller was on vacation the week before the meeting, he was back at work on Monday morning. Also, Mr. Haller's vacation plans apparently did not prevent the town from notifying the OPP about this vote. It certainly wasn't a coincidence that Prescott OPP detachment commander Sgt. Brent Hill, OPP Eastern Region official Sgt. Sue Stephenson, and OPP analyst Rod Case were at Monday night's meeting to further urge Prescott to sign their contract.

But setting aside these undemocratic tactics for a moment, let's address the sheer foolishness of having the first bylaw readings on that date. Contract negotiations between the town and the OPP had not even begun by the time town council introduced this bylaw, so Prescott officials have essentially endorsed a contract before holding even a single meeting of the negotiation team formed to hammer out an agreement between the municipality and the OPP.

How absurd is this? It's the equivalent of walking into a car dealership, telling the salesman that you will absolutely, positively buy a vehicle no matter what, and then inquiring about the price. And whatever happened to Mayor Lawn's promises just a few weeks ago to consider what Prescott residents wanted in regard to a downtown OPP satellite office? Shouldn't these things be negotiated before the contract is greenlighted?

This decision is, for all intents and purposes, irreversible. So it is crucial that the process be dealt with professionally and thoroughly from first to last.

Yet Mayor Lawn and his accomplices are rushing ahead without even bothering to properly negotiate a contract with the OPP.

The community is already extremely well-policed, yet the town is dashing for the Sept. 1 deadline as if we were without local law enforcement of any kind.

No matter how you feel about the decision to disband the Prescott police, proceeding in this reckless manner shows a complete disregard for both the community safety and the financial security of the citizens of the town of Prescott.

Brett Todd
KOPS Chair

This business survey is worth the effort

The Editor;

As reported by your newspaper, the South Grenville Economic Development Committee, which is a partnership between the townships of Augusta and Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and the Town of Prescott, is embarking on a joint Business Retention and Expansion survey.

The primary goal of this project is to foster an environment of open dialogue between the municipal councils and the business and industry that drive their economies.

In Eastern Ontario, close to 90 per cent of all new jobs come from existing business, so it is an obvious benefit to ensure that our local businesses remain viable.

A strong line of communication with your closest level of government is always a benefit. There are many programs in place to assist business, and your municipal office is a great place to go to get information on what programs might pertain to your situation.

There are often solutions to even the most specific concern and the path to finding that solution begins with empowering your municipal government to work on your behalf.

Even if your council cannot rectify the problem themselves, they can be a powerful lobbyist to ensure your voice is heard by those who can.

It is with that in mind that the Business Retention and Expansion program is being undertaken.

In the coming months, many business owners and operators will be contacted at random to participate in the survey.

The interview will be conducted in the strictest of confidence and will take a little more than an hour of your time. Any urgent issues will be forwarded to the appropriate body with the aim of responding to that issue within 48 hours.

The results of all the completed surveys will be compiled into a report and presented to each of the municipal councils as well as to the community through public meetings. The finalized report will then follow with recommendations on potential action plans.

Without the honest feedback from our existing business leaders, the survey will fail to deliver the information your elected officials require to make informed decisions.

So if your business is contacted to participate, please find the time to offer your expertise so we can all continue to prosper in future.

Jason Baker
Project Co-ordinator
South Grenville
BR&E Survey

The Comedie of Errors cast applauds community

The Editor;

This is a letter of appreciation from the cast of The Comedie of Errors, this summer's offering from the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.

For the last six weeks, we have worked and lived in Prescott, and we have been blessed with kindness, enthusiasm, superb hospitality and absolutely wonderful audiences.

No one in our well-travelled cast can recall another community with standards as generous as the ones enjoyed here.

In particular, we want to thank the artistic director, the festival volunteers, festival board members, sponsors and town councillors. Without their perseverance, this production would not have been realized.

On Aug. 1, our show will have ended and we will have scattered to our respective homes across Canada. We take with us precious memories. Rest assured, the country will hear the finest compliments about this town. It is the standing ovation we can give to Prescott after the generous applause given to us.

Kevin Hobbs
On behalf of the cast
of The Comedie of Errors

There are far too many unwanted cats and dogs

The Editor;

I am an animal lover who is very concerned about the over-population of abandoned cats and dogs.

I feel there should be an animal clinic; perhaps one of our surrounding vets would be willing to use a week a month to neuter and spay these animals for a nominal fee for low-income families. If not, perhaps someone would be interested in coming in and opening a clinic for several services besides this.

This would cut down the population, disease and the abandoning of unwanted animals. I see so many hungry, cold, homeless cats. I've seen little kittens hit by cars. Mother cats and dogs have kittens and pups ­ it is so hard for these animals to take care of their young with little help from anyone.

I know many people do try and help feed the strays, but a lot get overlooked.

When the animals are looking for food, there is the possibility of running into wildlife and getting rabies.

I hope something can be done.

Shirley Froats
Prescott

Readers are welcome to join new chapter

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

The reading group went quite well. Each person reads for different reasons and, therefore, chooses a book that will fill an individual need. The group will meet again Wednesday afternoon (Sept. 8) at 1 o'clock. More people are welcome to join us. Please bring a book title and author to share.

The hardanger needlework group plans to meet again Aug. 11 at 7 pm. We hope to soon be working on the beautiful fabrics from Europe.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Kitty Wormington; 2nd, Betty Morris; door, Brenda Humphry. Fun bridge ­ Glen Morris. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Andy Britnell; 2nd, Joyce Nesbitt. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Hilda Hutton; 2nd, Dora Cook; 3rd, Claire Marchand; door, Jean Annable.

Bloom judging to take place next week

CARDINAL - Get your lawns cut and your gardens weeded ­ judging for Cardinal In Bloom's annual garden contest is set for next week.

Judging for the competition will take place between Monday, Aug. 9 and Friday, Aug. 13, with only gardens which have been registered being graded.

First prize for the competition will be a patio set which is currently on display at Rona Hardware in Cardinal.

The second place finisher will receive a park bench, while a bird bath will be awarded for third place.

Ten honourable mention awards will also be distributed.

Garden ornaments will be awarded to the winner of the best container garden competition, while plaques will be given out for first, second and third place in the business and community organization category.

All prize winners will be announced at an awards ceremony scheduled for later in August.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Switch sides

The Editor;

I am writing you to let the townspeople know I am retracting my signature that I signed for stop signs to be changed on Bridge and Lewis streets in Cardinal. This, I feel, would be very difficult for the transports to our only factory, and the pollution at those corners would be atrocious for the air we have to breathe.

Lorna Toupin

Waste water agreement among the issues

SPENCERVILLE - Last night's regular meeting of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council was expected to be full of hot topic issues.

The purchase of three new township vehicles, the regulation of garage sales across the township and an agreement with 730 Truck Stop to accept their waste water were to be discussed at the meeting.

Council had previously been approached by the 730 Truck Stop earlier this year requesting the township's help to find a short-term solution to their waste water disposal problem. It had previously been discussed by council that two potential solutions would be accepting the waste at the waste water treatment plant on John Street or accepting the waste at the Spencerville Lagoon.

The meeting was held on a Tuesday due to the regular meeting date of Monday, Aug. 2 (the first Monday of the month) falling on a holiday.

The Journal went to press before the meeting.

Other items on the agenda included the purchase of a boiler, the request to close the Legion Hill road for the soap box derby at Cardinal's Labour Day Festival and committee reports.

Spencerville Fair pageants are calling for contestants

SPENCERVILLE ­ Contestants for the Spencerville Fair's Ambassador and Little Sir/Little Miss pageants are now being sought.

Both pageants will be held Friday, Sept. 10.

To be eligible for the ambassador pageant, applicants must be at least 18 and from Grenville County.

Contestants will be judged on their public introduction, an interview and their answers to randomly-selected questions. Personality, appearance, enthusiasm and community involvement will be factors considered by the judges.

To register, call Paula Carmichael at 658-5258. Entry forms must be completed and sponsorship fees submitted by Aug. 31.

The Little Sir/Little Miss event is open to boys and girls who will be between the ages of five and nine as of Sept. 10. Each contestant may only compete in up to two Little Sir/Little Miss pageants; winners of previous pageants are not permitted to compete in this one.

A panel of judges will interview contestants on the afternoon of the pageant; final judging will take place at the event, which starts at 7 pm.

Little Sir/Little Miss registration is limited to 10 boys and 10 girls; the deadline is Aug. 23. To register, call Janet Perras at 258-7343 or Natalie Bruce at 658-2709.

Alison Polacz was chosen Spencerville Fair Ambassador last year.

The Little Sir and Little Miss winners were Chase Tetreault and Missy Schutten.

This will be the 149th edition of the Spencerville Fair.

Fair decorating contests beginning to take shape

SPENCERVILLE ­ The 2004 Spencerville Fair is barely a month away, and registration is now open for the porch, lane and round bale decorating competitions.

This is the ninth year for the round bale contest. Using a minimum of one bale (maximum three high), entrants shall construct an original and creative display promoting the fair (including a clear sign that indicates the name and dates of the fair). Entries must be visible to anyone driving or walking by the display.

Entries in the porch and lane decorating competitions should also be clearly marked to indicate the name and dates of this year's fair. Prizes are to be awarded for first, second and third place in each section. There will also be special prizes for best display by a community group or organization as well as the most promotional exhibit.

The deadline to register is getting closer, so sign up as soon as possible. To enter, contact Paula Carmichael at 658-5258.

The 149th edition of the Spencerville Fair will take place Sept. 9-12.

CHEO receives portion of angel sales

PRESCOTT ­ The fourth edition of the CHEO pewter angel is now available at Prescott Jewellers on King Street West.

Five dollars from the sale of each angel will be donated to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

Reunion time for Gilmer family

JOHNSTOWN ­ The annual reunion of the Gilmer family is set for this Sunday, Aug. 8 at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre.

This will be the 51st anniversary of the family get-together involving descendants of the late Gawn and Mary (Wright) Gilmer. Registration starts at 11 am; a pot luck lunch will be served at 12:30, followed by a short business meeting.

For more information, contact Marie Cowan at 925-3586 or Sheldon or Stephanie Gilmer at (613) 258-1049.

Patterson and Leach capture PGC Member/Guest title

PRESCOTT - The annual Member/Guest tournament was a huge success for the Prescott Golf Club July 24-25 with more than 200 players competing.

The team of Prescott's club champion Phil Patterson and Roy Leach was the big winners of the day capturing the A flight title
in a playoff over the team of Chris Veltkamp and Drew Edmunds. Both teams finished the tournament with identical combined scores of 127. The team of Dale Walker and Paul Porteous was third with a score of 128, while Rick Kotlarchuck and Charlie McCague were fourth with 129.

Bill and Steve Martineau were crowned champion of the B flight with a combined score of 135, one stroke ahead of Gerry Devaney and Dave Hurd and Cal and Rick Polite, who tied for second with scores of 136. Tom Sheridan and Ritchie Whiteland were fourth with 137.

Bob Rowe and Pasquale Mongilla were the C flight champions with a 137, followed by Charlie and Fred Gardiner in second with a 140. Three teams - Chris Glashan and Steve Smith, Paul Noonan and Jamie Ogilvie and Kevin Lawless and Steve Summers - tied for third with scores of 141.

Steve and Gerry Daoust won the D flights with a combined score of 142, one stroke ahead of Peter Fortier and Dan Seed in second place. Hugh Craig and Mike Moore and Tom and Rick Langer finished third with scores of 144.

Tom and Andrew Hare captured the E flight with a score of 142, followed by Bill Veilmauer and Tim Farrell with 144, Ed Mitchell and Randy Wyatt with 146, Carl Graham and Rozon Ron and John and Jim Grier with 147.

The teams of Wayne Freer and Rob Nixon and Dennis Locatelli and Jack Fennell tied for top spot in the F flight with scores of 146, while there was also a tie for third place between Ron and Jim MacKenzie and Eric and Chris Keeler with 150.

Betty Bernier and Marg Watts won the G flight with 153,
followed by Paul Haley and
John St. Jospeh with 154, Scott and Brian Francois with 155
and Ray and John Raycroft with 156.

Claire McIntosh and Vic Harward won the H flight with 158, followed by Ed Clayton and Ian Stewart and Ron Pratt and Paul McLaughlin with 159 and Elsie McIntosh and Elaine Harward with 160.

Stan Orr and Kellie Howe won the I flight with 160, followed by Nancy Dye and Glenda Deir with 164 and Don and Lorne Dougherty and Al Durant and Jack McNeely with 167.

M.J. and Ray Robinson won the J flight with 169, followed by Stan and Jim Marshall with 172, Thelma Gibson and Jenny Stefura with 174 and Kevin and Terry Payne with 175.

Winchester swim meet produces plenty of top finishes for local swimmers

WINCHESTER - The Prescott Piranhas swim team took a bite out of the competition on their way to a second place finish July 24 at the Winchester Swim Meet.

The Piranhas finished second out of eight teams competing in the event and were led by Jacob Hayes, who was named the top 11 and 12 year old boy.

Hayes managed to come away from the meet with five medals including first place finishes in the freestyle, butterfly and individual medley races and a first place in the medley relay and a third place in the freestyle relay with teammates Alex Breedon, Dan Mill and Braeden Smith.

The Cardinal Sea Sharks also had a strong performance at the meet finishing fourth out of eight teams at the meet.

Three Sea Sharks were named the top swimmer in their age group including Carrie Calhoun in the girls 13 and 14 year old group, Kristen Jessome top girl 15 and over and Joel Jodoin top boy 15 and over (exhibition).

Calhoun, Jessome and Jodoin each had three first place finishes in the individual medley, freestyle and butterfly competitions.

Top local finishes are:

Prescott Piranhas

Girls seven and eight

Paige Stufko: first, back crawl; third, freestyle; sixth, breast stroke

Boys seven and eight

Zachary Shankar: third, butterfly; fifth, freestyle

Broyden Stufko: first, butterfly; third, freestyle and back crawl

Girls nine and ten

Shannon Steenwyk: third, breast stroke; fifth, individual medley

Michaela Mills: fourth, butterfly and individual medley; sixth, breast stroke

Boys nine and ten

Kevin Cummings: first, individual medley; second, freestyle and breast stroke

Girls 11 and 12

Jackie Mills: third, butterfly; fifth, freestyle and individual medley

Boys 11 and 12

Dan Mills: third, butterfly; fifth, freestyle

Jacob Hayes, first, freestyle, individual medley and butterfly

Braeden Smith, fourth, back crawl

Girls 13 and 14

Charlotte Rothgeb, third, butterfly; fourth, individual medley

Sarah Steenwyk, fifth, butterfly and individual medley

Boys 13 and 14

Dylan Hayes: second, back crawl; third, freestyle

Relays

Girls nine and ten (Mallory Gilson, Michaela Mills, Shannon Steenwyk, Jenny Minish): fifth, medley; sixth, freestyle

Boys nine and ten (Broyden Stufko, Zachary Shankar, Kevin Cummings): first, freestyle and medley

Boys 11 and 12 (Alex Breedon, Dan Mills, Braeden Smith, Jacob Hayes): first, medley; third, freestyle

Girls 13 and 14 (Sarah Steenwyk, Charlotte Rothgeb, Jackie Mills): third, freestyle and medley

Cardinal Sea Sharks

Girls six and under

Brittany Moore: third, back crawl; fourth, freestyle; fifth, breast stroke

Boys six and under

Danny Patrick: third, freestyle; fourth, back crawl and breast stroke

Girls seven and eight

Madison Moore: fourth, back crawl; sixth, butterfly

Kaitlyn Biccum: fifth, butterfly; sixth, freestyle

Boys seven and eight

Ryan Leggo: fifth, butterfly; sixth, breast stroke

Girls nine and ten

Emma Patrick: fourth, back crawl

Dawn Wright: fifth, butterfly

Boys nine and ten

Beau Jodoin: sixth, butterfly

Brandon Peeler: fourth, butterfly

Billy Myers: second, individual medley; third, freestyle

Girls 11 and 12

Audrey DeJong: sixth, individual medley

Brittney Myers: first, individual medley and butterfly; third, back crawl

Boys 11 and 12

Danny Calhoun: second, individual medley and freestyle; fourth, butterfly

Girls 13 and 14

Carrie Calhoun: first, individual medley, freestyle and butterfly

Carley Sullivan: first, back crawl; second, freestyle; third, breast stroke

Charlene Smith: first, breast stroke; second, individual medley; third, freestyle

Amanda Adams: sixth, back crawl

Girls 15 and over

Kristen Jessome: first, individual medley, freestyle and butterfly

Amanda Smith: first, back crawl and breast stroke; second, freestyle

Boys 15 and over exhibition

Joel Jodoin: first, individual medley, freestyle and butterfly

Relay

Girls eight and under (Brittany Moore, Madison Moore, Kaitlind Biccum): fifth, freestyle and medley

Boys nine and ten (Beau Jodoin, Brandon Peeler, Billy Myers, Ryan Leggo): third, freestyle

Girls 11 and 12 (Erin Douesnard, McKenzie Gill, Brittney Myers): fourth, freestyle and medley

Girls 11 and 12 (Emma Patrick, Dawn Wright, Audrey DeJong): sixth, medley

Boys 11 and 12 (Danny Calhoun, Nathan Biccum): fourth, freestyle; fifth, medley

Girls 13 and 14 (Carrie Calhoun, Carley Sullivan, Charlene Smith): first, freestyle and medley

Girls 15 and over (Amanda Adams, Kristen Jessome,
Amanda Smith): first, freestyle and medley

Boys 15 and over exhibition (Kyle Davies, Joel Jodoin): first, freestyle and medley

Prescott Pirates LL advance to finals against Winchester

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Pirates major boys baseball team reached the finals of the Upper Canada Little League Championships after defeating South Mountain #1 2-0 in a best-of-three series.

On July 29, the Pirates defeated pennant champion South Grenville #1 7-4 to take a 1-0 semi-final series lead. Prescott pitchers Kurtis Lavery and Clark Seymour had strong games combining for 11 strikeouts in six innings, while Richard Joudoin sparked the offence with a double up the middle to take an early lead.

In game two, Aug. 2, the Pirates scored a 13-9 victory to clinch the series. Lavery and Pat Froom had strong games on the mound, while clutch hitting from Lucas Stitt, Mason Williams and Clark Seymour combined to score 11 of Prescott's 13 runs. Quinton Selleck managed to preserve the victory when he ran down a long hit ball in centre field to initiate a key relay to home plate.

On July 28, the fifth place Pirates scored a 9-3 win over fourth place South Mountain #2 in a single elimination contest to advance to the semi-final series against South Mountain #1.

Tim Kippax broke open a tightly contested game with a triple, which sparked the Pirates to victory.

The Pirates began the best-of-three championship series yesterday in Kemptville against second place Winchester.

Dawson Smith explodes for six goals in Prescott I.D.A. win

PRESCOTT - A six goal performance from Dawson Smith was one of the highlights of Prescott and District Soccer Association action last week.

Smith scored six goals,
while Liam Bush added five and Olivia Dixon added a single in Prescott I.D.A.'s 12-0 win over M.T.J.B. in Under-8 action Thursday at South Grenville District High School.

The win improved Prescott I.D.A. to 5-10-2 on the season.

Under-16

Southport 4

Hank Heykoop (2), Shawn Secord, Kelsey Sargent

Watermark Printing 1

Joshua Whelan

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 9

Colton Reid (2), Kevin Beach (2), Andrew Wilson, Nick Goodman, Trevor Madden, Hallee McFarlane, Jason Deeks

Canadian Tire 0

No goal scorers

D.W.J. Plumbing & Sons 7

Cody Haché (3), Joseph Greer
(2), Joshua Joudoin, Mason
Amell

Hartley Sports 2

Rebekka McDougall, Brian Keeler

Gateway Packaging 10

Nathaniel Hayes (5), Joshua Strickland (3), Timothy Johnston, Clayton Dunnington

Grenville Towing 4

Matthew Deeks (2), Aaron Greengrass (2)

D.W.J. Plumbing & Sons 4

Joshua Joudoin, Nathan Denneboom, Sean Dobbie, Mason Amell

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 3

Kevin Beach, Nick Goodman, Sebastian Last

Grenville Towing 5

Chris Hoogwerf (2), Matthew Deeks, Shelby Moeller, Dennis Heldens

Hartley Sports 1

Nicholas Wert

Gateway Packaging 4

Joshua Strickland (3), Nathaniel Hayes

Southport 0

No goal scorers

Canadian Tire 7

Andrew Bernard (3), Zack Henderson (2), Brandon Spencer, Patrick Peladeau

Watermark Printing 1

Jacob Piette

Under-12

Colour Pallette 4

Colby Latocha (3), Luke Henderson

Giant Tiger 2

John Jackson, Michael Morell

Shriners 2

David Suatac, Jacob Hayes

Mac's Convenience Stores 1

A.J. Larocque

Beach Home Hardware 7

Daniel Walker (3), Jamie Sturgeon (2), Scott Stephenson, Cody Shedrick

B.W. Freer Electrical 0

No goal scorers

Hansen's Kavity Kickers 2

Devon Deschamps, Michael Lawless

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 0

No goal scorers

Seaway Valley Pharmacy 7

Drew Johnston (2), Ben Hutton (2), Josh Brown, Chad McAuley, Cameron Symington

Hansen's Kavity Kickers 0

No goal scorers

Mac's Convenience Stores 2

Taylor Garswood, Jacob Scott

B.W. Freer Electrical 1

Todd Bernard

Grenville Castings 6

Sean Perrin (5), Jessica Dunnington

Colour Pallette 2

Zach Burridge, Colby Latocha

Beach Home Hardware 7

Jamie Sturgeon (4), Cody Shedrick (2), Scott Stephenson

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 3

Devon Lebrun (3)

Shriners 3

Matthew Suatac (2), Cody Patenaude

Giant Tiger 3

Michael Morell (2), Dillon Stoddard

Grenville Castings 3

Westley Moulton (2), Sean Perrin

Seaway Valley Pharmacy 1

Drew Johnston 1

Under-10

TD Canada Trust 3

Christian Zahn (2), Spencer
Cook

Prescott Kiwanis 1

Cameron Smith

Mac's Convenience Stores 2

Dylan Dorey, Brandon Visser

Cassidy's Engraving 1

A.J. Larocque

Danani Flooring 5

Chris Hendriks (3), Tyson Bertrend, Vanessa Lasenba

Grenville Pharmacy 1

Dylan Dobbie

Prescott Kinsmen 3

Nicholas Heykoop (2), Patrick Spencer

Royal Bank 2

Devon Johnston, Nick Ladouceur

Splash Well Drilling 5

Joseph Sargeant (3), Cody Adams, Jake Ranger

Playit Star 0

No goal scorers

Royal Bank 7

Devon Johnston (2), Nick Ladouceur (2), Christian Saumier, Matthew Courtney, Aaron Scott

Splash Well Drilling 0

No goal scorers

Cassidy's Engraving 3

A.J. Larocque (2), Michael Barkley

Grenville Pharmacy 1

Alex Stephenson

Prescott Kiwanis 5

Zackery Sukunda (3), Damien Haystead, Taylor Donaldson-Gilligan

Playit Star 0

No goal scorers

Mac's Convenience Stores 4

John Lawless, Alex Modler, Brandon Visser, Dylan Dorey

TD Canada Trust 3

Mika Turansky (2), Keerstin
Cook

Prescott Kinsmen 3

Patrick Spencer (2), Nicholas Heykoop

Danani Flooring 2

Chris Hendriks, Paul DeJong

Under-8

Tropical Pools 5

Phillip Boyd (3), Cody Dietschweiler, Jose Bernier

Windmill Web Inc. 1

Hayden Spychi

Prescott I.D.A. 12

Dawson Smith (6), Liam Bush (5), Olivia Dixon

M.T.J.B. 0

No goal scorers

Hometown Heating 3

Connor Pennett (2), Jesse Kennedy

Compendium Group Inc. 1

David Armstrong

St. Lawrence Printing 2

Emma Dukelow (2)

Playit Star 2

Cameron Smith (2)

Compendium Group Inc. 7

David Armstrong (2), Austin Wickware (2), Isaac Scott (2), Payden Selleck

M.T.J.B. 1

Ryan Wilson

St. Lawrence Printing 6

Curtis Ross (3), Emma Dukelow (2), Mason Wyatt

Hometown Heating 5

Jesse Kennedy (4), Connor Pennett

Tropical Pools & Spas 2

Courtney Crowder, Phillip Boyd

Playit Star 0

No goal scorers

Prescott I.D.A. 7

Dawson Smith (5), Lucois McBride, Liam Bush

Windmill Web Inc. 0

No goal scorers

Under-6

Grenville Fish & Game 2

Cameron Beaver, Jonathan Noonan

Playit Star 0

No goal scorers

Chevron Construction 2

Spencer Ross (2)

Beck's Construction 1

Dylan Simpson

Portraits by C. Endicott 2

Devon Knapp (2)

Prescott Chiros 1

Taylor Prosser

Tichborne Auto Supply 2

Wilson Burton-Fox, Brody
Ranger

Star Security 2

Cole Cameron (2)

Portraits by C. Endicott 4

Devon Knapp (4)

Chevron Construction 0

No goal scorers

Playit Star 2

Devon Stoddard (2)

Prescott Chiros 2

Taylor Prosser (2)

Grenville Fish & Game 2

Jonathon Noonan, Cameron Beaver

Star Security 0

No goal scorers

PDSA Standings as of August 1

Under-16 GP W L T GF GA GF-GA PTS

D.W.J. Plumbing 18 11 4 3 40 34 6 25

Canadian Tire 18 8 5 5 47 39 8 21

Grenville Towing 18 9 7 2 63 48 15 20

Gateway Packaging 18 7 5 6 50 43 7 20

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 18 7 7 4 47 34 13 18

Hartley Sports 18 8 9 1 45 52 -7 17

Southport 18 7 8 3 36 36 0 17

Watermark Printing 18 2 14 2 28 70 -42 6

Under-12 GP W L T GF GA GF-GA PTS

Grenville Castings 19 17 2 0 106 45 61 34

Shriners 19 14 4 1 66 27 39 29

Colour Pallette 19 14 4 1 76 45 31 29

Beach Home Hardware 19 13 6 0 74 64 10 26

Seaway Valley Pharmacy 19 10 8 1 62 41 21 21

Giant Tiger 19 8 10 1 43 71 -28 17

Kriska Holdings Ltd. 19 5 13 1 44 57 -13 11

Hansen's Kavity Kickers 19 5 13 1 45 74 -29 11

Mac's Convenience 19 5 14 0 36 53 -17 10

B.W. Freer Electrical 19 1 18 0 27 102 -75 2

Under-10 GP W L T GF GA GF-GA PTS

Danani Flooring 19 16 3 0 66 27 39 32

Prescott Kinsmen 19 12 4 3 66 35 31 27

Grenville Pharmacy 19 10 7 2 66 42 24 22

Splash Well Drilling 19 10 8 1 46 45 1 21

Royal Bank 19 8 7 4 39 30 9 20

TD Canada Trust 19 8 9 2 49 44 5 18

Cassidy's Engraving 19 8 9 2 50 48 2 18

Mac's Convenience 19 7 11 1 38 55 -17 15

Playit Star 19 5 12 2 25 63 -38 12

Prescott Kiwanis 19 1 15 3 21 77 -56 5

Under-8 GP W L T GF GA GF-GA PTS

St. Lawrence Printing 17 16 0 1 82 29 53 33

Hometown Heating 17 14 3 0 89 32 57 28

Tropical Pools & Spas 17 11 5 1 70 34 36 23

Playit Star 17 7 8 2 53 49 4 16

Compendium Group Inc. 17 7 9 1 65 63 2 15

Prescott I.D.A. 17 5 10 2 42 55 -13 12

Windmill Web Inc. 17 3 13 1 16 82 -66 7

M.T.J.B. 17 0 15 2 12 85 -73 2

Under-6 GP W L T GF GA GF-GA PTS

Star Security 18 13 2 3 42 15 27 29

Grenville Fish & Game 18 11 3 4 43 20 23 26

Prescott Chiros 18 9 5 4 31 19 12 22

Chevron Construction 18 7 6 5 25 31 -6 19

Beck's Construction 18 7 10 1 31 31 0 15

Tichborne Auto Supply 18 5 8 5 22 34 -12 15

Portraits by Endicott 18 3 10 5 25 40 -15 11

Playit Star 18 2 13 3 14 43 -29 7

St. Lawrence Sr. A Falcons team holding open tryouts in August

PRESCOTT - The St. Lawrence Falcons Sr. A hockey team will be looking to get its 2004-05 season started on the right foot as it holds its training camp in August.

The team will have four on-ice sessions for open-tryouts at the Brockville Youth Arena. The first will be held Friday, Aug. 13, followed by two sessions on Saturday, Aug. 14 and a final session Sunday, Aug. 15.

The season is scheduled to begin on Oct. 2, with the Falcons looking to build on last season's success.

Anyone interested in trying out for the team should pre-register by contacting Greg Simpson at 345-4752.

Jr. B Rangers starting off-ice conditioning sessions Thursday

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers will be holding off-ice conditioning sessions starting this Thursday, Aug. 5 at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

The sessions will continue on Friday, Aug. 6, Monday, Aug. 9, Tuesday, Aug. 10 and Wednesday, Aug. 11. All sessions begin at 6 pm. The Rangers are also inviting players from the midget, bantam and peewee levels to take part to get a head start on the season. Those interested in taking part are required to bring their sticks and gloves.

There is a fee to take part.

For more information, contact Mark Armstrong at 925-4033.

Let us know about upcoming events in sports and recreation

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Journal is interested in promoting local sporting events, recreational activities or interest and achievements to residents of the South Grenville area.

When submitting, please include all relevant information as well as a contact name and number in order to verify information. Dates, teams, scores and brief descriptions are helpful.

If you have information , contact David Dickenson at 925-4265 or e-mail sports@prescottjournal.com.

Keep in mind Monday at noon is the deadline to submit information.

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