VOL. 174, NO. 37~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ September 152004

Another record-breaking year at the fair

More than 25,000 visitors flock to annual agriculture showcase in Spencerville

SPENCERVILLE ­ An opening-day soaking failed to dampen spirits at this year's Spencerville Fair.

The 149th edition of the Biggest Little Class "A" Fair in Eastern Ontario, which ended its four-day run Sunday, attracted 25,225, a slight increase over last year's record-setting attendance total. Spencerville Agricultural Society President Sheila Bush described the turnout as "fantastic."

The remnants of Hurricane Frances dumped more than 100 millimetres (four inches) of rain Thursday, which caused problems for organizers trying to take care of last-minute details prior to the opening of the fair grounds that afternoon.

"It was unbelievable," Bush said of all the rain. "We didn't get as much work done as I'd hoped."

But the sky cleared Friday, and the weather did not become an issue the rest of the way.

"The crowds were fantastic," Bush commented. "Thank God for the good weather."

The annual celebration of the agricultural community has become a much bigger show the last couple of years since the fair grounds were expanded thanks to a donation by the late George Drummond. Bush credits Drummond's foresight as a major reason the fair has been able to grow.

In addition to the traditional exhibits and livestock shows as well as the midway, pageants and the Saturday parade, the fair's entertainment tent and demolition derby drew crowds in the thousands.

The Friday night show featuring April Wine and Ambush was attended by just over 3,000 people. Almost 2,000 were on hand for the Saturday night show featuring Aaron Lines.

Just how well the fair did financially this year has yet to be confirmed. "I'm hoping we come out a little bit ahead," she said.

Visitors appeared to be satisfied with this year's fair. Laura Parrott, a St. John Ambulance attendant who worked at the fair, said she liked the new layout of the fair. Parrott noted the fair has retained its agricultural roots and has the best parade of any fair in the region.

She and other visitors gave high marks to Robertson Amusements, which took over operation of the midway this year. Reanna Giroux said the rides were better, although there should be more from which teenagers can choose.

As for the expansion of the site, Doug Workman said the fair is a lot less congested than it used to be. However, he also noted his apprehension about how the fair has been "city-fied" in recent years.

Bush, whose term as president is coming to an end, acknowledged there have been and will be growing pains and more changes. She added, though, some people said this was the best fair ever.

"We've got a great bunch of workers," Bush said. "It (the fair) is a total community effort."

The sense of community is an important part of the fair's success, according to Parade Marshal Sandra Lawn. The former Prescott mayor noted the only time she had missed the fair since moving to the area in 1964 was in 1969 "...because I was having a baby."

Lawn added, "Now we bring our grandchildren."

Janet Perras, volunteer and co-chair of the advertising committee, said the fair has been part of her life since she was a little girl. "It's been a family thing for a long time."

A strong showing this year would give the agricultural society a boost as the focus shifts to planning the 150th edition of the fair. A fundraising idea suggested by Harry Pratt that is now in the works is to seek sponsors for each year of the fair.

For a contribution of $1,000, a sponsor can select a year that might be of importance (such as the year he or she was married or started a business). The goal is to raise $150,000; the money would be used to improve the grounds and to see that the fair is not threatened by a lack of funds.

"This (fund) will ensure the fair goes on and on," Pratt said. "With this fundraiser, we will be honouring the past, celebrating the present and preparing for the future."

In noting he did not grow up in the Spencerville area, anniversary committee chair Marc Tessier said he "...couldn't understand what all the hoopla was about" at first. "I ended up marrying the fair," he added.

"Coming from a large urban area, I really appreciate the fair... It's great to see people so proud to get together."

THIS WEEK

Support the food bank at event this Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ There is still time to pitch in at the second annual Bottom Line Challenge.

The event in support of the Food For All Food Bank is set for this Saturday, Sept. 18 in the parking lot of O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer. Businesses and groups that have collected non-perishable food and household items take them to the lot and place them on line on the ground. Participants will also be given space at the site to promote themselves.

Set-up starts at 10 am; the event runs from 11 am to 1 pm. The public is invited to check out the challenge and support the local food bank.

More than 5,000 items were collected at last year's Bottom Line Challenge.

To register or for more information, call the food bank at 925-2444.

The event is sponsored by The Prescott Journal, 101.5 The Fox and O'Reilly's.

Get ready for Terry Fox Run this weekend

PRESCOTT - Prescott-area residents are invited to run, walk, wheelchair, kayak, or scuba dive at this year's 24th annual Terry Fox Run Sunday, Sept. 19.

The event "runs" from 11 am to 3 pm and departs from the Kinsmen Amphitheatre at Sandra S. Lawn Harbour. It charts a course along the waterfront trail, then back through Prescott on George, King, and Sophia streets before returning to the amphitheatre. The entire route takes place either on walking paths or sidewalks, so participants don't need to worry about contending with traffic.

There is also a water "leg" of the run for scuba divers, kayakers, or canoeists.

Prescott's Terry Fox event requires no pre-registration or registration fee. For more information about the run for cancer research, please contact organizer Sharon Spychi at 925-3495.

Soap box derby ready to roll in Spencerville

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Spencerville and District Optimist Club will host a soap box derby this Saturday, Sept. 18 on Goodin Road just north of Spencerville.

Registration begins at 9 am. Races for youngsters between the ages of eight and 16 start at 10 am. Participants must wear helmets. Prizes will be awarded.

There is no admission fee.

Calling all blood donors

PRESCOTT ­ A blood donor clinic will be held next Thursday, Sept. 23 at South Grenville District High School.

The Canadian Blood Services clinic will run from 2 to 8 pm. Appointments are recommended. However, walk-ins will be accepted. To make an appointment or for more information, call 1-888-236-6283.

Jobless rate falls, EI claims rise

KINGSTON ­ The regional unemployment rate fell sharply in August, according to figures released Monday by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).

The jobless rate for the region that includes South Grenville was 5.6 per cent last month. The July jobless rate was 7.1 per cent.

Decreases in the number of people unemployed and the number of people in the labour force caused last month's rate to drop, according to an HRSDC news release. Construction experienced job gains, but there were fewer people employed in the manufacturing sector.

The regional unemployment rate at this time last year was 6.9 per cent.

The job picture is not as bright in terms of Employment Insurance (EI) claims. The Kingston-Pembroke HRSDC management area recorded a 5.9-per-cent increase in EI claimants last month.

There were 1,122 active regular and special EI claimants at the Prescott office as of the end of August, an increase of more than eight per cent from the July total of 1,037.

Gananoque was the only centre reporting fewer EI claims last month.

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

The regional jobless rate is now lower than both the Ontario and national rates.

Recycling depots will be dumped

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - Augusta residents who are used to dropping off their recyclables at depots around the township will soon have to change their routine. Augusta council decided monday to close all its recycling stations by Dec. 31 of this year.

Councillor John Fischl said he feels Augusta's resources can be better used at the township's dump in North Augusta and transfer station in Maynard.

Deputy Reeve Doug Barton said the recycling stations are simply no longer cost-effective. "When they (recycling stations) were introduced, they generated revenue for the township. That's no longer the case," he said.

Barton added the recycling stations have become havens for township residents illegally dumping garbage. "There has been more waste introduced at the (recycling) sites, as well as rats and raccoons."

However, Augusta Reeve John McCrea expressed worry the closure of the recycling depots may lead to increased dumping of garbage around the township.

A resolution to close all the recycling centres by Dec. 31 of this year will be passed at the next council meeting on Sept. 27.

Remnants of Frances left quite an impression

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ It was the wettest day in local memory.

The remnants of Hurricane Frances dropped about 100 millimetres (about four inches) of more of rain on the Prescott area Thursday.

The precipitation was accompanied by moderate winds which made for challenging conditions, although nowhere in comparison to the ferocity of the storm that caused many billions of dollars in property damage to the American southeast (especially Florida) and portions of the Caribbean.

No major flooding was reported in the Prescott area. There were few, if any, road washouts in outlying areas.

In Prescott, Town Engineer Clyde Solomon indicated there had been only a few reports of storm-related problems.

Town pumping stations were bypassing Thursday, meaning some water was being discharged into the river without passing through the sewage treatment plant.

Although Solomon acknowledged raw sewage might have made its way into the river, the discharge would have been diluted by the sheer volume of water involved.

Solomon said the multi-million-dollar sewer separation work the town did a few years ago has made a big difference. He remarked if the record rainfall had occurred ten years ago, he might have "looked at getting out of town" because of all the basements that would have been flooded on Henry Street and in other areas of town.

Prescott was spared from having to deal with a lengthy power outage. That was not the case in some outlying areas, which reportedly were without hydro up to several hours. This meant homeowners who did not have a generator would not have power to operate sump pumps needed to keep water out of the basement.

Heavy rain forced the opening night showcase at the Spencerville Fair to be moved from the entertainment tent to inside the community centre.

By Friday morning, the remnants of Frances had passed to the east.

In-school mentoring program a big hit for Big Brothers Big Sisters

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

MAITLAND - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville has teamed up with schools in the region to offer a mentoring program to local youngsters.

According to In-School Mentoring Co-ordinator Susan Clarke, the program is aimed at giving kids in grades 3-5 a special adult friend who can give them some extra help, an ear to talk to, or can help them better socialize with others.

"We generally target grades 3-5 because that's when children are most receptive to outside influences," said Clarke, "but on occasion we do go younger or older if there is a request and a need."

The program began five years ago as a pilot program at Maitland Public School and has grown from there to encompass schools in Brockville, Augusta and a couple of schools in Prescott.

"We match adults with kids," said Clarke.

"We find an adult who's kind at heart and hook him up with kids who are in need of a special friend. The kids could be having trouble making friends, need a little more self-confidence or have too many stories to tell, where a teacher in class wouldn't have the time to hear them all."

Clarke explained the program is only for one hour a week; the mentor would call the student's teacher and arrange a mutually acceptable time the student can be excused from class to spend an hour with their mentor in the school, where it would be the least intrusive for the child.

"They could do crafts, play some games or maybe even watch a movie," said Clarke. "We give them a resource box with things like games and toys for them to try."

According to Cindy Turton, whose son Matthew is a program participant at Maitland Public School, the program and his mentor, Debbie Fox, have been a very big part of his life during the school year.

Fox, started with the mentoring program in January after seeing an ad in the paper and decided to give it a try.

"It's just been excellent," said Fox. "Just simply a positive experience. We have a few laughs and he's just a very smart good kid, that I really enjoy spending time with. My kids went to Maynard, where I used to be involved with volunteering, but now that they're older, they don't need me as much, but it's been nice to feel like you are still part of a young person's life."

Matthew's mother Cindy explained the program has had a positive influence on her child.

"It's just been wonderful," she said. "It's been a nice experience; the days Matthew spends with Debbie he comes home glowing. He has really benefitted from it; he's a little more talkative and he really looks forward to those days."

Matthew explained during their weekly sessions throughout the school year they worked on a variety of activities.

"We built things with Lego and played games," said Matthew. "We have fun; one time we made chocolate chip cookies for my class and watched Lord of the Rings."

According to Clarke, every school which is currently home to the program has kids who are wanting a mentor, but there just aren't enough volunteers.

"We're volunteer-driven, so it can be tough," explained Clarke. "Every child could benefit from having an adult friend and role model. The schools are very flexible with mentors coming in and we just ask for a consistent person to be part of this. People can still live their normal lives and go away on vacations, just as long as they let the students know they won't be there, so they aren't feeling like they have been abandoned."

Currently, the program has 30 mentors in 11 schools including Boundary Street, Maitland, Maynard and Algonquin public schools in South Grenville.

Clarke explained the program can also be made available at other schools if the school or potential volunteers call Big Brothers Big Sisters and express their interest in the program and arrangements can be made.

Those interested still need to complete a screening process with the program, which includes a police check and references, before going to a principal and teacher to match up with a child.

For more information on the program or to volunteer, call Clarke at 345-0281.

House tour to be held Sept. 25

PRESCOTT ­ The eighth annual historic house tour presented by the Grenville County Historical Society will take place Saturday, Sept. 25.

The five houses on this year's tour cover everything from frame and brick to stone and from stately mansion to modern bungalow.

The tour runs from 1 to 4 pm and includes afternoon tea at Walker House. Tickets are available in advance at Young's of Prescott and at Flower World, both on King Street West. Tickets will also be available at Walker House on the day of the tour.

See next week's Journal for more details of the five properties that are part of the 2004 historic house tour.

Family goes the distance

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

Stacy Jones has continued what has become a family tradition in the Jones family.

Stacy earned a full athletic scholarship to Nicholls in Thibodaux Louisiana, as a distance runner. Her scholarship covers tuition, room and board, books and equipment.

Stacy is the third of the Jones sisters to earn a full scholarship for distance running. Her sisters Stephanie and Vicky both received full scholarships to the University of New Orleans. Stacy has entered first year of the elementary education program at Nicholls. Vicky is in her second year of the health fitness and sports management course.

After winning the award for having the highest grade point average on the New Orleans track team, Stephanie Jones has transferred to the University of Ottawa this year and is taking her third year in the Bachelor of Science program. Stephanie plans to teach secondary school.

Stacy and Vicky started school Aug. 23, and Vicky has already distinguished herself by winning the weekly award for having the best time in her event in her conference.

Attending University 2,400 kilometres from home means the girls will not be home again to visit until Christmas, but with an average 24 hours spent every week training in addition to their academic work, the girls keep very busy.

Stephanie, Vicky and Stacy are the daughters of Phil and Pat Jones of Bernard Crescent, Maitland.

Johnstown United Church to mark 125th anniversary

JOHNSTOWN ­ One hundred twenty-five years of service to the community will be celebrated next week at Johnstown United Church.

The church's anniversary will be marked by activities that are open to members of the community. Next Thursday, Sept. 23 at 5 pm, a turkey supper will be served at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre in Johnstown. Tickets will be available at the door.

On Sunday, Sept. 26, Reverend Robert Crooks will return to the church for a special service at 10:30 am. Crooks, who served as minister in Johnstown in the 1960s and will be travelling from Nova Scotia to attend the service, dedicated the current structure in 1962.

Also on Sept. 26, the Gospel Lighthouse Quartet will provide an evening of music and lead the congregation singing.

Prescott plans to contract tourism service out to Brockville chamber

Town committee recommends move; council endorsement expected next Monday night

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The Town of Prescott is one step away from contracting out tourism consulting services to the Brockville and District Chamber of Commerce.

A proposal to obtain the consulting services at a cost of up to $12,000 was given the green light Monday night by the town's community and protective services committee. Prescott council will be asked to endorse the committee's recommendation at next Monday's council meeting.

Tourism Prescott, a volunteer committee, has supported efforts to promote the town during the past nine years. "I know this council knows the benefits of tourism," said Tourism Prescott Chair Graham Cudlipp, who went on to state the proposal is part of "a move-forward strategy" that will help make Prescott more of a tourism destination.

The $12,000 identified as part of the proposal was money Prescott council approved for municipal use as part of the 2004 budget.

The Prescott group has developed a strong working relationship with tourism officials in Brockville the past two-and-a-half years, according to Cudlipp. He added he has been impressed with the work of Brockville Tourism Co-ordinator Ann Weir.

Under the proposal, Weir would work with the Prescott-based tourism committee to review, evaluate and implement an action plan and marketing.

The City of Brockville has already outsourced its tourism program to the chamber of commerce. Sueling Ching, executive director of the chamber, said the organization is prepared to do some restructuring to ensure Weir can devote sufficient time to Prescott. When asked about concerns about Prescott losing its identity by working more closely with Brockville, Ching said she does not believe it will be an issue. There is a need to focus on a regional strategy that benefits all communities, she and other Brockville officials noted.

Weir said the goal is to strengthen visitor services and get visitors to have longer stays in the area ­ whether it is in Brockville, Prescott or some other municipality. "To me, it's an entire region," Weir added.

All seven members of Prescott council were present at Monday's meeting. Most of the comments they made about the proposal were positive.

"We really do need to look at the big picture," said Councillor Suzanne Dodge, who described the arrangement as a "win-win" for the town.

Additional funding for the new arrangement with the Brockville chamber would be sought from town council as part of its 2005 budget deliberations.

Town considers donating its share of social service grant money to local food bank

PRESCOTT ­ The town will ask the Food For All Food Bank if it is in a position to accept a donation of more than $8,000 and spend it by the end of the year.

Prescott has received $8,047 from the Leeds and Grenville joint services committee. The money represents the town's portion of a nearly $100,000 grant that had been earmarked for social services and transportation. The counties-based committee did not award the grant and dispersed the money among member municipalities.

The subject was discussed at the town's community and protective services committee Monday night. Councillor Nancy Lane suggested giving the money to the food bank would be an excellent way to offer help to people in need of support.

"Children without food in this community is a big issue," Lane said.

The councillor said she had not mentioned the donation to her fellow food bank board members; she was waiting for council's reaction to the proposal.

Most of the comments from other council members was positive. Councillor Suzanne Dodge said some of the money should be used to provide clothing to the less fortunate. Lane indicated the food bank is already equipped to do that.

The town is in a "use it or lose it" situation; the grant money has to be spent by the end of 2004.

It was noted Monday the food bank could work with the town to determine specific areas for which portions of the $8,000 can be used.

The donation proposal will be put to the food bank for its response.

Prescott-based Food For All serves residents of the town as well as Edwardsburgh/Cardinal and Augusta.

Women invited to Take Back the Night

BROCKVILLE - The 7th annual "Take Back the Night" event in Brockville to raise awareness about stopping violence against women and children is planned for this Saturday, Sept. 18 from 3-6 pm.

The event will be held on Blockhouse Island. "I think it will be a great venue. It's going to be wonderful," said Evelyn Dales, co-ordinator of the Assault Response and Care Centre in Brockville.

In case of rain, the festivities will take place at Wall Street United Church.

There is a full slate of activities planned for "Take Back the Night" in Brockville. It will feature tea/coffee readings, displays of local art, a performance by the Raging Grannies, and a march through Brockville's downtown core. The event will finish with a candlelight vigil.

"I'm so glad we have a "Take Back the Night" in Brockville so we don't have to go to Kingston or Ottawa to celebrate the strength of women," says Assault Response and Care Centre Counsellor Sharon Hinbest.

It anyone would like to become involved with the event or display their artwork at it, contact the centre at 345-3881 or Interval House at 342-4724.

Correction

A name that appeared in the Seaway Physiotherapy Centre article in last week's paper was not spelled correctly. The correct name is Shanen Gillespie.

The Journal apologizes for the error.

Community dinner served next Wednesday

PRESCOTT ­ The next Master's Hands Community Supper will take place next Wednesday, Sept. 22 at Seaway Christian Church.

The free dinner will be served from 5 to 6:15 pm. All are invited.

All types needed

This is another reminder about the upcoming blood donor clinic to be held next Thursday, Sept. 23 from 2 to 8 pm at South Grenville District High School.

All blood types are needed. Appointments are recommended but are not required. Sponsors of the clinic are the Kinsmen Club of Prescott and the Grenville Fish and Game Club in conjunction with the school.

Breastfeeding week includes photo contest, "latch-on" event

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit will be emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding by taking part in a special theme week at the beginning of next month.

Oct. 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life ­ with continued breastfeeding up to the age of two and possibly beyond ­ provides the best nutrition babies need to grow and develop, according to a health unit news release.

On Saturday, Oct. 2 at 11 am at the Early Years Centre in Brockville and in Smiths Falls, a "latch-on" event will take place.

This national challenge involved more than 130 sites across Canada last year. Victoria, B.C. had the distinction of being the participating location with the largest number of breastfeeding moms.

The health unit is also holding a photo contest as part of the theme week. Photographs of moms breastfeeding while doing everyday activities will show "breastfeeding is the normal way to feed a baby and can be done anytime and anywhere," the health unit release states.

Contest finalists will be selected by the people who attend the challenge.

Winning pictures will be made into a poster the health unit will produce to promote breastfeeding throughout the tri-county area.

For more information on breastfeeding or for more information on the photo contest, call 345-5685 or visit www.healthunit.org.

Another rabies case confirmed

MALLORYTOWN ­ Another raccoon rabies has been confirmed in the Leeds and Grenville area.

A third animal from the Mallorytown area tested positive for the deadly disease, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit reported last week. South Grenville has had no recent confirmed cases of raccoon rabies, a disease that can kill a person who contracts it and does not receive the proper treatment in time.

People are advised to avoid wild, stray or unknown animals and should ensure their dogs and cats are vaccinated against rabies and prevented from running at large.

Anyone who is bitten by a raccoon or other animal is advised to wash the bite area with warm water and soap, contact his or her family physician and report the incident to the health unit.

For more information on rabies, contact the unit at 345-5685 or visit www.healthunit.org.

OPP ­ GRENVILLE COUNTY NEWS

Incidents occurred at entertainment tent

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Ontario Provincial Police responded to a number of occurrences at the Spencerville Fair this past weekend.

Several incidents and altercations occurred at or near the licensed entertainment tent. Most were dealt with at the scene; two people were transported to the detachment in Prescott for public intoxication. Charges are pending against one man, according to police.

Constable Meldrum investigated the attempted theft of a "Molson Canadian" sign Saturday. A group of people was observed in the vicinity; one male cut down the sign. He was removed from the tent.

Through the fair board, several officers were on the grounds for paid duties.

Young male nabbed after vehicles kicked

SPENCERVILLE ­ On Sunday at about 4 pm, OPP constables Blanchette and Thompson received a call about an intoxicated male who was kicking vehicles as he was walking out of Spencerville on County Road 44. A 17-year-old was located and arrested for breaching an undertaking and mischief under $5,000.

Nothing taken during church break-in

SPENCERVILLE ­ Grenville County OPP are investigating a break-in at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church that was reported Saturday at about noon.

Someone had broken a window to enter the church. Nothing appears to have been taken, according to an OPP news release. Evidence was collected by scenes of crime officer, Constable Meldrum.

Constable Bisson is the investigating officer.

Chipped brush to be available in Maynard

MAYNARD - In order to deal with a large pile of chipped brush at the Maynard transfer station, Augusta township is allowing the public take the chippings away - with a catch.

Augusta council decided Monday night to allow the public to take away chipped brush so long as they sign a waiver absolving the township of any risk associated with the brush.

"It's only the first day, and already we've had six or seven people ask about the brush," Augusta Councillor John Fischl said.

He added the chippings should be offered on a first-come, first-served basis to residents who want them.

Augusta Reeve John McCrea requested township Deputy Clerk Linda Robinson to write a waiver which would ensure that any residents taking the brush know they are doing so at their own risk. Robinson was also requested to call township lawyer John Simpson to ensure the waiver would be legally binding.

He requested these waivers be available at the Maynard transfer station by the end of the week.

Bomb scare leads to evacuation of bank

PRESCOTT ­ A bank in downtown Prescott was evacuated Monday morning as a result of a bomb scare.

Someone called the Bank of Montreal and made a threat at about 9:45 am, according to Constable Holly Howard of the Grenville County OPP detachment. After the bank had been cleared, police sealed off the immediate area and conducted a search of the building. Neighbouring buildings were not evacuated.

Nothing suspicious was located inside the bank, according to the constable.

Howard did not know whether the caller was believed to be a male or female.

By midday, the bank had reopened.

Constable Kerr is the investigating officer. Members of the Leeds and Grenville Crime Unit were also on the scene Monday morning to assist with the investigation.

Anyone who has information on the bomb scare is asked to contact the OPP detachment at the corner of Edward Street and Prescott Centre Drive (925-4221) or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

OPP ­ PRESCOTT NEWS

Break-ins occur at Anglican church and Crane House

PRESCOTT ­ Two break-and-enters reported to police this past weekend might be connected, according to Grenville County OPP.

Sometime between 7 pm Friday and 7 am Sunday, someone broke the glass in the rear door of St. John's Anglican Church. The building was entered; many items appeared to be left untouched, and nothing was reported missing. Constable Thompson is investigating.

A similar break-in was reported at Crane House, which is owned by St. Mark's parish and is used by the Knights of Columbus and the Grenville County Historical Society. The building had been entered through a basement window that was not damaged. Someone rummaged through many cupboards and desks; a small amount of cash was reported missing from a till.

Evidence was collected at the scene; Constable Mike Lapensee is investigating.

Anyone with information on these break and enters is asked to contact the OPP detachment in Prescott (925-4221) or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Garage entered during the night

PRESCOTT ­ Constable McConnell responded to a break and enter call on James Street Saturday. Sometime between 11 pm the previous night and 7:30 am, someone entered the garage near the residence. After the door was damaged and the building entered, the culprit or culprits realized there were no items to take and then left, according to a news release.

Cenotaph at fort did not sustain any permanent damage

PRESCOTT ­ More details of damage to the cenotaph at Fort Wellington are available.

Damage was not as serious as had first been feared when police were contacted last Monday. The wood filler compound used on the monument was washed off and caused no permanent damage to the structure. It appeared the culprit or culprits used grass to smooth the filler or clean their hands. Evidence was collected at the scene.

Anyone with information on this case of mischief is asked to call police at 925-4221. The Town of Prescott is now being served by the Grenville County detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police, which is based at the office located at the corner of Prescott Centre Drive and Edward Street. The former police station at Centre and Henry streets is now closed.

Local boy recovering from bout with flesh-eating disease

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Three months after nearly succumbing to flesh-eating disease, Jacob Whitney knows he's lucky to be alive.

And though he knows the running, jumping, and biking which used to typify his summers has come to an end, he has a positive outlook for the future - which includes three weekly sessions of physiotherapy at St. Vincent de Paul Hospital in Brockville and monthly visits to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa to meet with specialists and track his progress.

Jacob's ordeal started in early June when a jump off his parent's backyard shed caused his right ankle to swell. At the time, he was also suffering from a sore throat and cold. However, when a mysterious red rash started advancing up his leg, his mother (former Journal reporter Monica Whitney) knew something was very wrong.

"Jacob had visited the doctor four times and they couldn't find anything wrong," she said. However, by June 6, her son was in such distress that he couldn't hold his leg straight and had to keep it elevated. "I was in so much pain I couldn't sleep. It was really bad." said Jacob

Whitney's husband Randall rushed Jacob to the emergency room at Brockville General Hospital, where doctors recognized his symptoms as being consistent with necrotizing fascitis, commonly known as flesh-eating disease.

If not for the quick-acting doctors at Brockville General Hospital, Whitney says, her son would have likely died. "The (CHEO) doctors said if the BGH doctors didn't give him the right antibiotics, it would have been 'game over' for Jacob," she said. Her son was rushed to CHEO by ambulance.

Once at CHEO, a quick-acting team of specialists worked to save Jacob's life. After an MRI, doctors delivered the devastating news to Whitney. "Finally, the doctors came out and said (my son had) an aggressive form of flesh-eating disease," she said. "(They said) he needs surgery immediately to save his life."

The surgery which followed took three-and-a-half hours; doctors removed dead muscle and tissue. Immediately following the operation, he was placed on life support in an isolation unit in the ICU of CHEO.

Jacob's condition was tenuous following the surgery, with doctors telling Whitney and her husband they hoped to save their son's leg. "The first 48 hours (following the first surgery) were the biggest risk," said Whitney.

Jacob remembers little about the days following his first surgery. One of his few memories involved attempting to speak but being unable to because of the large breathing tube in his throat. However, two nights after the initial surgery a quick-thinking nurse thought to give Jacob pen and paper during one of his brief lucid moments (he was kept under heavy sedation during most of his time in the ICU). "When I saw the note saying 'Where my mom,' I felt everything would be okay. It gave me hope," Mrs. Whitney said.

In the days following the first surgery, a total of six additional surgeries were undertaken. Three of these surgeries were to ensure all dead tissue was removed from Jacob's leg, and three more were to attempt to close a gaping wound on Jacob's calf - which doctors initially thought would require a skin graft to close properly.

After five days in an isolation room in the ICU, Jacob was allowed to go into a regular room. "I thought the worst might be over," Whitney said

After two-and-a-half weeks, Jacob started physiotherapy at CHEO. "He had two IVs and a medication pump he had to drag with him," said Whitney.

During this time doctors were able to fully evaluate Jacob's condition "Once the doctors said (his injuries) would be a lifetime issue for him, it threw me again," said Whitney. Doctors explained the lost muscle in Jacob's ankle meant he can move his foot down but not up. "Every step he takes, he will drag his foot," she said. However, doctors have said there is a possibility of tendons taking over the job of the lost muscles, which would allow Jacob to walk with greater ease.

The loss of mobility definitely came as a blow to Jacob. "I am sometimes sad that I can't do the stuff I used to do," he said. "But I know that I am really lucky too."

Whitney explained "He was really into running, jumping and bicycling. But now he can't put any pressure on his foot." In spite of his injuries, she added, Jacob remained active by swimming in the Prescott pool.

"Swimming is good because it takes pressure off his foot," she said.

Jacob went home in mid-July. And though his homecoming resulted in changes in the household (a ramp was built at the back door and the living room became Jacob's bedroom), Whitney says her family has become closer because of the experience.

"I think the experience has made all the kids (Alexander, 14, Cortland, 10, and Stuart, 8) appreciate each other a lot more. (The experience) has knit us closer together."

Whitney is also quick to thank the neighbours, individuals, and service clubs who collectively made her harrowing experience more bearable. The family was assisted with everything - from home-cooked meals to a new wheelchair ramp - by members of the Prescott community.

Three months after her son's ordeal began, Whitney says doctors still don't know why her son fell victim to flesh-eating disease. "They (doctors) can only speculate why it happened," she said. "Jacob had sores on his leg; he's always into things and falling down. They think if he had a sprained ankle, the bacteria may have entered one of the sores and went to the weakened area."

Health Canada indicates flesh-eating disease can be caused by a number of different bacteria, most commonly group A streptococcus (GAS). This is a very common bacteria of the same type which causes strep throat. While many people carry this bacteria in their throat or on their skin without getting sick, if infection occurs it can destroy tissue and cause death within 12 to 24 hours. It is estimated there are between 90 and 200 cases of flesh-eating disease per year in Canada, and about 20 to 30 per cent of these are fatal. Symptoms of flesh-eating disease include a high fever and a red, severely painful swelling that feels hot and spreads rapidly.

Whitney gives advice for parents who think one of their children may have the disease: "You have to follow your gut feelings - you have to keep pressing until you get the answer you need," she says.

Meanwhile, Jacob is glad to be alive, healthy, and beginning Grade 7 at St. Joseph Catholic School. "I am happy to be going back, even though I won't be able to run around the yard," he says.

Town holds off on lights at pavillion

PRESCOTT ­ Town officials have decided not to proceed with additional lighting at Kelly's Beach.

In response to concerns expressed by the owners of the adjacent bed and breakfast, council opted earlier this summer to improve lighting at the public beach to discourage young people from loitering there at night.

When the subject arose at Monday's meeting of the community and protective services committee, Community Services Director Randy Pelehos indicated he did not have money in his budget to pay for the lighting. Pelehos had obtained two quotes to install a light at the pavillion. Concerns about vandalism of town and private property in that area had been noted earlier this year.

However, Pelehos told the committee Monday he believes the problem might have been "overstated." Municipal workers who visit the beach each morning do not report finding a lot of broken bottles, garbage and a lot of other undesirable items, according to the director.

Although most town officials appeared to agree installing lights would likely discourage people from hanging out at the pavillion, there is also belief the move would just move the problem somewhere else. Given the absence of available funds, officials went along with Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead's suggestion the matter be deferred to next year's budget deliberations.

The possibility of additional police patrols in the beach area was to be discussed at yesterday's meeting of the police services board.

Go ahead, pick a card game... any card game

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

We still have a few tickets for the matinee at the Morrisburg theatre to see Lucien Snowbird, Lucien III by and starring Marshall Button. This is a brand new Lucien series in which Canada's favourite blue-collar philosopher realizes a life-long dream of being a tourist in Florida. Don't miss this great evening of New Brunswick "pulp" fiction. Call 925-5300 to reserve your ticket.

With the cooler fall weather, all our groups are getting back into full swing. We play bridge Monday afternoons at 1 and Wednesday nights at 7. Euchre is on Thursday nights at 7. On Friday afternoons, a group plays "pepper," a bud euchre.

If you are interested in a day or evening cribbage group, let us know.

Don't forget to drop off any non-perishable things you can spare by this Friday afternoon. We will take these donations for the food bank's "Bottom Line Challenge" to the depot Saturday morning (Sept. 18).

We plan to "walk" in the Terry Fox Run Sunday, Sept. 19. Pledge sheets and donations can be arranged at the office.

Card game winners: Monday bridge ­ 1st, Findlay Hill; 2nd, Isobel Locke; door, Janet White. Fun bridge ­ Delia Seeley. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Findlay Hill; 2nd, Kitty Wormington. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Micheline Cook; 2nd, Hilda Hutton; 3rd, Jean Annable; door, Lou Baldwin.

Township council approves $2,500 for physician drive

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - In contrast to its decision of July 12, Augusta council has now decided to lend its support to the Leeds and South Grenville physician recruitment task force.

However, the municipality will not provide the initiative with the $5,000 it initially requested.

At Monday's council meeting Deputy Reeve Doug Barton said the township should give $5,000 to the drive. However, Councillor Pauline Cyr pointed out there was not enough money in the township's budget to give that amount.

On July 12, council voted 3-2 against contributing $5,000 to the task force.

"I think we should lend support (to the task force)," Barton said Monday. "It will be looked on favourably by the community."

Reeve John McCrea said council should only provide the physician recruitment program with $1,500.

He also raised the issue of the possibility of council lending monetary support to an expansion of the Brockville airport so that larger medical jets can be brought in to assist Brockville General Hospital with more serious operations and evacuate the seriously injured.

Council decided to pledge $2,500 to the physician recruitment drive, which is trying to attract family physicians as well as specialists to the Leeds and South Grenville area.

Augusta adjusts its list of road repair projects

MAYNARD - Some of Augusta township's roughest roads will not be targeted for work in 2004 due to the lack of time the township has to repair them.

Dixon Road and Algonquin Road - which have both sustained damage to their bases which makes them require extensive preparation of the road base have been taken off the list to be repaired this year, while the entire Maynard subdivision, Sarah Street in Maitland, Lords Mills Road, and Skakum Road are slated to be paved this year.

Road work in the Maynard subdivision is poised to start later this week, stated Augusta Manager of Public Works Ken Dickson at the council meeting last Tuesday evening. He added the contracts for Augusta's road work - for a total of $469,372.20 have been awarded to G. Tackaberry and Sons. In addition, $50,000 has been budgeted for a surface coating to be applied to Blue Church Road in between the 3rd and 4th Concessions, which has already been completed.

Even though he expressed unhappiness the Algonquin Road will not be dealt with this year, Reeve John McCrea said "I would have no trouble defending how the roads committee has spent the money."

Roads committee member Denise Latimer also attended the council meeting. She mentioned the shift in priority for Augusta roads was crucial due to the time constraints the township now faces. "A lot of the budget went to the (road around the Maynard) school," she said. "That was one of our main priorities."

She also added the committee decided there was not enough time to repair Algonquin and Dixon roads satisfactorily in 2004.

Sodbuster members gain experience in the field

By Amy McKinley, Press Reporter

The first two meetings of the Grenville 4-H Sodbusters were held at the farm of Barb and Brian Maitland. The club executive was elected. Results were as follows: President, Jeff Maitland; Vice-President, Amber Phillips; Secretary, Emma Dangerfield; Press Reporter, Amy McKinley; Treasurer, Crystal Throop.

A tractor rodeo was held at our second meeting to get used to the plow on the tractor. Two courses were set up for junior and senior members.

Everyone had a chance to do the course and also to compete against the other members for high scores. In the senior course, Emma Dangerfield and Jeff Maitland tied for highest score. In the junior course, Melissa McLaughlin and Mike Maitland tied.

The combined third and fourth meeting of the Grenville 4-H Sodbusters was held at the farm of Herb Dangerfield and family Sunday, Aug. 8. This was a day to practice plowing before Harvest Days.

Many members brought their own tractor and plow to use. Land numbers were assigned to each member, where they practised plowing. Mr. Mel McGuire was there to judge our members on how well they did.

A few members received high marks for having a straight opening split.

A barbecue lunch was provided while we met for a short meeting and then we headed back down to the field to finish our plowing.

It was a very interesting day for all the members ­ especially ones who had never plowed before.

Roast beef dinner at St. John's

PRESCOTT ­ A roast beef dinner will be served this Saturday, Sept. 18 at 5:30 pm at St. John's Anglican Church, which is located at the corner of Centre and James streets.

Advanced tickets only. Call Ethel at 925-3364.

Proceeds go to the church's renovation/restoration fund.

Spencerville Fair pageants highlight family show

Stephanie Connell wins ambassador title; Emily Meilleur, Aiden Cleary are Little Miss, Little Sir

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - The Edwardsburgh Community Centre provided the backdrop for an evening full of crowd-pleasing entertainment with the Ambassador and Little Sir and Little Miss pageants Friday night at the Spencerville Fair.

The winner of the 2004 Spencerville Fair Ambassador Pageant was Stephanie Connell, 18, of RR#1 Brockville. During the question period she expressed her favourite television/book character as Minnie Mouse, who she indicated has the life any girl would want, to the applause of a large cheering section which included many friends and family members.

For Connell, the victory in the pageant was her third win of the day. She also won a 4-H competition and the senior secondary school category exhibition barn earlier in the day.

Her long-time involvement with the fair which began as a contestant in the baby contest and has involved work as a member of the 4-H club.

"I'm really surprised, but I'm excited to do the job," said a thrilled Connell.

"This role will be a great experience, and I'm really proud of myself for being part of it. I've been involved with the fair my whole life and I can't wait to continue to give back all the fair has given to me."

The win that night was a big thrill for the entire Connell family, which cheered wildly throughout the event and were also announced to have won awards as part of the round bale decorating contest.

"She did great, especially since she had to be coerced a bit to enter it," said proud aunt Debbie Connell, who was among the first of many to offer congratulations.

"She's already won a couple things earlier today and now this is just the icing on the cake. Some of her family came in from Edmonton and got a chance to see her in the pageant, making this a real family event for all of us."

Jaime Longtin was awarded the first runner-up in the competition and drew much applause for her idea to celebrate next year's 150th anniversary of the fair with fair ambassadors of past years returning and capping the fair off with a fireworks display.

The other ambassador contestants were Kelly Longtin and Lindsay MacPherson.

Outgoing fair ambassador Alison Polasz wasn't able to attend the ceremony since she is attending university on the east coast, but sent along her best wishes and apologies for not being able to attend in a letter which was read by the night's hosts the Wild Rosinis, "Clem" and "Zeke."

In the Little Sir and Little Miss pageant, the kids took centre stage answering a variety of questions from the quick-witted Rosinis, who had the crowd smiling throughout the night.

The Little Sir Winner was Aiden Cleary, 8, of St. Mark Catholic School, who managed to win over the crowd despite being a man of few words.

The Little Miss winner was Emily Meilleur, 7, from Benson Public School, who smiled out at the crowd and shyly waved to her mother as she answered questions from the hosts.

The contestants answered various questions about what they would like to do when they grow up, which brought up a variety of jobs including a nurse, carpenter, swimmer, painter, NHL player, policeman and a Tonka truck driver.

Four boys participated in the Little Sir competition, while eight girls took part in the Little Miss pageant.

Loyalists to meet this Saturday

AUGUSTA ­ The charter meeting of the Col. Edward Jessup branch of the United Empire Loyalists' Association of Canada will take place this Saturday, Sept. 18 at 11:30 am at the Grenville Snowmobile Club on Charleville Road north of Maynard.

Dinner will follow at noon. All are welcome to attend.

For tickets or more information, call Fraser Carr at 925-4930 (fraser.carr@ripnet.com).

Join the Power Play and support this area's Easter Seal Society

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ The Power Play for Easter Seals Kids will take place Sunday, Sept. 19 from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm in the parking lot of the 1000 Islands Mall in Brockville.

The road hockey tournament is a fundraiser for the Easter Seal Society, an organization that provides support to young people dealing with physical disabilities.

The annual tournament includes a silent auction. The public is welcome to attend.

For more information, call 342-7110.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I am sometimes sad that I can't do the stuff I used to do... But I know that I am really lucky too."

Jacob Whitney, 12, who is recovering from an attack of flesh-eating disease

Editor's Notebook

ENSURING BIGGER IS BETTER: Growing pains aside, organizers of the Spencerville Fair deserve credit for such a massive undertaking. The Biggest Little Class "A" Fair in Eastern Ontario is definitely living up to its billing as volunteers oversee what has grown from a one-day gathering of the local farming community into a four-day festival that attracts tens of thousands of people from throughout the region.

It is obvious there are still those people who are not pleased with some of the changes that have taken place at the fair the past couple of years. It is argued the apparent emphasis on the entertainment tent (which, to some, is just a big beer tent) somehow takes away from the more traditional aspects of the fair. The expanded fair grounds gives the event some much-needed space; however, some of the smaller venues are at risk of being overshadowed by bigger attractions and shifts in pedestrian traffic.

Even if the volunteers at the fair board cannot reach consensus on everything and might not share the same vision for the annual gathering, there is evidence of compromise and a willingness to accept change while respecting tradition. As much as we would hate to see the Friday Night Family Show (featuring the two pageants) lose out because it is going head to head with the headline musical act at the entertainment tent, we should also understand the two venues might cater to different audiences.

With the 150th edition of the fair just a year away, we wish the volunteers well as they plow ahead and perform the difficult task of balancing the new reality of country fairs with the agricultural roots of the Spencerville community.

SMILE FOR THE CAMERA: The prospect of having Prescott council meetings videotaped and played on the cable provider's community channel should give town residents additional insight into the many subjects with which municipal government must deal ­ not to mention insight into why having to attend these meetings can be a challenge to even the most civic-minded individual.

As has been the case with other municipal councils that have seen the introduction of video cameras, some council members and senior staff tend to respond by targeting their remarks to the larger audience instead of their colleagues across the table. We acknowledge newspapers are limited in their ability to report on the tone or the full extent of the goings-on at a council meeting. We welcome the opportunity for elected officials to communicate more effectively with their constituents.

However, we hope our elected officials do not let the arrival of televised meetings to change the focus of why they attend those meetings. They were elected to make decisions in the best interests of the community, not to play to the cameras.

Tim Ruhnke

Deal with trespassing, then deal with the noise issue

THE NEW GUY by Tim Ruhnke

The OPP's presence in Prescott is being noticed in the days following the disbandment of the Prescott Police Service. In one recent case in which I had called 1-888-310-1122 (the notch below 9-1-1 emergency) to report what appeared to be a person who might have needed medical attention, a motorcycle unit and two cruisers (with red lights activated) were at the scene within several minutes of my call.

In an effort to assist the new officers serving the town, we would like to suggest one of many problem areas to consider as they are making the rounds. As Sergeant Somerville and the former Prescott officers can attest, there is a lot of pedestrian traffic in the area of the CN right-of-way. To be more specific, there are a number of informal crossings at which trespassing is a fairly common occurrence. Just last Wednesday night (moments after a cruiser headed south on Edward Street), a group of six teens (possibly pre-teens) used the popular overpass crossing to shave a minute or two from the time it would have taken them to actually use the overpass.

In fairness to the local detachment, Grenville County OPP are already familiar with the problem given the lengthy railway corridor that passes through Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. With moves afoot to silence train whistles in Augusta and Prescott, the issue of trespassing (and preventing it) must be addressed. Besides, there is the most important issue of all: public safety. By slapping trespassers with fines and unwanted stops by police, perhaps these people will begin to understand saving a bit of time or finding something to do to kill some time and have a bit of fun is not worth the hassle or the risk.

* * *

Picking the final three Canadian Idol contestants five weeks ago must not have been much of a challenge given the fact I was able to do it. As I noted at the time, my heart was with Theresa but my head told me Kalan was the guy.

The same holds true. With the finale set for tonight and tomorrow night, I suspect Theresa is destined to be runner-up. Kalan more than just fits the stereotype of the classic "idol;" not only is he making young girls scream, he also has the pipes to be a good singer.

This many weeks into the series, I am surprised to find I am still somewhat interested in many of the finalists and their post-Idol aspirations.

Theresa's presence (especially those brown eyes of hers) is what attracted me to the program in the first place, and it would be a shame to see her natural beauty, sincerity and personality fall victim to some image consultant's effort to package Theresa and market her as something she is not.

No matter what the outcome of the voting might be, Theresa is a winner.

Minor hockey increases registration fee to $13: 1974

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Sept. 16, 1954

* The 99th Spencerville Fair attracted about 5,000 visitors and a record 24 entries in the baby contest on Wednesday.

The president of the agricultural society is P.R. Barnard; Dean Cook is the new secretary/treasurer.

* Four graduating Prescott High School students have been awarded Dominion-Provincial bursaries. The recipients are Tony Kelly, Pattie McLean, Jack Anderson and Boyd Hall.

* Advertisement for Coligan Electric on St. Lawrence Street: 1955 RCA Victor 24-inch Bystander television sets for only $499.50 in walnut (higher price for mahogany and limed oak models).

Sept. 18, 1974

* The 119th edition of the Spencerville Fair drew record crowds totalling about 8,000.

* The situation at Prescott's Ferrox Iron plant has been rectified, according to Assistant Plant Manager Lawrence Levere. There were claims the company had been polluting the air and water at its plant just east of Edward Street on the south side of the rail line.

Although an environment ministry official acknowledged there had been discharges of red dust, airborne effluent was found to be within provincial guidelines. Concerns about leakage at the settling pond were also being addressed, according to Levere.

* Prescott Minor Hockey has increased its registration fees. Boys living in town will now pay $13, up from $10 last year. The maximum for a family is $24 ­ provided family members register together. The fee for a non-resident boy is $28; it is $46 for a non-resident family.

Tony MacDonald will run the hockey school at the start of the season.

Muslims in our communities pay the price for silence of Islamic leaders

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

While back in Ontario last week, I spent a day in St. Catharines, where our family lived before leaving for the United States.

There, about three blocks from our old home near Lake Street, was a Mosque that we used to drive by every day. It had been damaged in what could only be described as a hate crime. More than likely, this was someone's idea of retaliation for the tragedy in Beslan, Russia last week that saw more than 300 innocent people, including 156 children, slaughtered.

One would have to assume the Mosque was not the only one targeted for some good old-fashioned "sortin' out".

As this tragedy unfolded, a couple of things stood out as peculiar.

Firstly, when the media played their typical drop-everything-and-cover-the-crap-out-of-one-story card, those guilty for the crime were identified in most reports as Chechen rebels or freedom fighters. They were rarely, if ever, identified as Islamic extremists.

Secondly, it was disturbing that Muslim leaders around the world did not immediately speak out condemning their actions or distancing themselves from the group. Not until there was pressure to do so did Muslim leaders denounce this vicious and horrific crime.

Now, don't go and think this is a rant against Islam. It is not. Some of my best friends at Carleton were Muslim, some of my closest friends in St. Catharines were Muslim, and many of my friends I played football with over the years in both Canada and the United states were Muslim. They are nice people, kind people, and among the most family oriented people I have known.

We all feel terribly sorry for the victims and their families in Russia, but I worry for my Muslim friends because of the resounding silence that has hit the world with a thud in the Beslan aftermath. People will blame all Muslims for these crimes. The average Muslim is not a terrorist, just as the average Christian does not flop around church aisles speaking in tongues or condemn your child to hell for reading a Harry Potter book.

Many of you out there have a hard time stomaching my column every week and might dismiss me as a right wing nut job. I know what you are expecting me to write. Well, it would be very easy to come out and say, "Do you see why it's right to fight a war on terror? Look at how savage and brutal these Muslim terrorists are." Some analysts will say this, but I won't go there.

It would also be easy to point a finger at the anti-Bush media in Canada and the U.S. and say that the fact that these terrorists are Muslim extremists was censored because this event may sway the fence-sitters to become pro-Bush and pro-war with the election coming up.

At the same time, if you are a liberal or very left wing in your thinking, don't be so insipid to think that this horrific tragedy was caused or even masterminded by "American Foreign Policy". To terrorists, this is a jihad that has been around a lot longer than American foreign policy, let alone America itself. It is a thousand years or more of war and hatred by extremists, and this thousand year war simply has tentacles that have wrapped themselves around the world's current political climate.

Just as many of the fighters facing coalition forces are not Iraqi, many of the Chechen Freedom Fighters were not from Chechnya. In fact, 10 of the 30 hostage takers in Russia were Arabs. As the world sees a few fanatical regressive Wahhabi Muslims in their holy war, many just gloss over the news with the observation that "Muslims did this". Before this incident in Beslan, the Russians were allies with the Arabs. It would be hard to see them continue as allies now.

The silence is a big reason for this.

There is not a week that goes by when we do not read about or see a Muslim leader like Amr Moussa of the Arab League on television denouncing the latest Israeli attack on the Palestinians. They have every right to denounce these attacks. They are at war.

However, it would make us all feel a little better if this Russian mass slaughtering had been immediately denounced by one of these same Muslim leaders.

But instead, the silence in the days following the tragedy was deafening. All who should have spoken out looked the other way. Why did Arab leaders not speak out immediately and condemn this genocide? It was as if no Arab or Islamic leaders dared speak out against the attack.

As a result, Mosques like the one in St. Catharines, or maybe in a community you live in or your friends or family lives in, will be attacked by vigilante punks or rednecks.

Here is a way to really take matters into your own hands. If you know someone or meet someone who is Islamic, reach out and show some compassion. Understand they are just like you and have strong compassion and family values too. Know that the actions of some evil and violent fanatics have nothing to do with them or their religion.

Since the Beslan tragedy, someone needs to reach out to Muslims in our communities for the sake of their own safety.

Their leaders sure as hell haven't.

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

Reunion of Cardinal Disco Ducks made quite a splash at Labourfest

The Editor;

They came, they danced, talked about old times and got caught up on what has happened over 25 years. Former and current Cardinal residents arrived from as far as Vancouver, B.C. to North Carolina.

The doors opened at 8 pm and by 8:30 pm; people were starting to pour in. It was amazing to see the faces of those who I personally have not seen in many years. One family that arrived was the Stewarts who travelled from Cartier, Ont., which is nine hours away. Some members of this family I have not seen in 18 years and their return to Cardinal was to attend the dance and get in touch with friends they as well have not seen in years.

Having spoken with Sherrie Stewart over the phone a few weeks prior to the dance, Sherrie had stated that she always wanted to return to Cardinal and show her children where she grew up. Sherrie had said that even though she left at a young age she still considers Cardinal home.

Our DJ Sound Express did a wonderful job of supplying music that we used to dance to in the late '70s. Greg Adams, who used to DJ for us back then, acted as MC for the evening and took his turn spinning a few CDs for an hour, which really brought back many memories. Some who didn't recognize Greg by face recognized his voice.

A special award was presented that evening to Wayne and Linda Bellinger as a thank-you for all they did for us 25 years ago. The Bellingers acted as our advisors and were also involved in other Cardinal Youth Groups in the mid-1970s and early 1980s.

We, at this time, would like to note all those who assisted with this reunion. Our main sponsors were the Cardinal Community Festival Committee and Cardinal Legion Branch 105. We would also like to acknowledge Greg Adams, the local press and those who took the time to help get the word out about our reunion dance.

If you missed our dance you missed a great party, but we pledged to return again in five years Sept. 2009.

To be kept informed of this event, please drop me an e-mail at robwenrg@ripnet.com and I will keep you posted on the details.

Robin Yandeau
President
Cardinal Disco Ducks

Parade chair regrets breach of protocol

The Editor;

As chairperson of the Spencerville Fair Parade, I would like to extend my heartfelt apologies to the war veterans of the Royal Canadian Legion who participated in Saturday's parade.

Due to a number of circumstances, I inadvertently instructed another organization to precede the Legion members, who were accompanied by the Spencerville Legion Pipe Band.

This grievous error was a breach of protocol and etiquette. This act does not reflect the deep respect and admiration that myself and the other members of my organization feel for the war veterans of our community. With a long-standing history of friendship and co-operation, the Spencerville Agricultural Society and the Royal Canadian Legion ­ Branch 604 Spencerville - have always celebrated our community together.

I would be saddened to see this affiliation sullied by this unfortunate incident. I hope that forgiveness can be found.

To the Legion members and pipe band, I thank you for the many services you have provided to our community and country. I look forward to future years of collaboration between our two organizations.

Mary Tessier
Executive Director
Spencerville Agricultural Society

SCHOOL SCENE

Boundary Street Public School: Welcome back to students, parents, and staff.

Students will soon be able to sign up for cross-country running and lunch-hour soccer. Students are asked to listen for further information on the morning announcements.

Our annual Fall Fun Fair will be held Friday, Oct. 1. These activities will be followed on Saturday afternoon by our open house to celebrate Boundary Street Public School's 50th anniversary. The community is welcome to come and share in the celebrations.

Student council elections and activities will be held shortly. More information will be coming from Mrs. St. John and Mrs. Arthurs. Nomination forms for school council were sent home with each student last week. Elections and the first meeting will be held on Tuesday, September 21. Please come out and join us.

Hot lunch this Friday will be hot dogs.

St. Joseph Catholic School: We welcome many new students ­ our Grade 4s who have transferred from St. Mark ­ as well as newcomers from across the area.

Our theme this year is "Peace." In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, he tells us "Blessed are the Peacemakers for they will be called the children of God." Congratulations this week to our St. Joe's Peacemaker: Jason Noonan

Congratulations to our students who had entries in the Spencerville Fair. St. Joseph won the trophy for most points in the Grade 7 category.

You are invited to attend our September Celebration of the Eucharist, which is planned for Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 11 am at St. Mark's Church, with Father Appelman as celebrant.

Plans are under way for our open house/barbecue Thursday, Sept. 23 from 5-7:30 pm. There will be many fun activities for family and friends as well as a barbecue and bake sale.

The first school council meeting for 2004­05 will take place Monday, Sept. 27 at 7 pm in the St. Joe's Library.

St. Mark Catholic School: Welcome to the 2004-2005 school year. We hope everyone had a relaxing summer and is ready to meet the challenges that face us in Catholic education this year.

We have had a great start to our year at St. Mark Catholic School. It is nice to see everyone again.

Our opening school year mass will be celebrated Monday, Sept. 20 at 9:30 am at St. Mark's Church.

On Wednesday, Sept. 22, we will hold curriculum night beginning at 7 pm in the gymnasium. Parents will have an opportunity to view Catholic graduate expectations, Ministry of Education curriculum documents, "Together We Care, Together We Learn" resources, tour our facilities, meet staff and enjoy some refreshments.

School photos will be taken Tuesday, Sept. 21 for grades JK/SK B to Grade 3 classes and also Wednesday, Sept. 22 for JK/SK A classes.

Be prepared to give details

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Police remind local residents they do not have to open their homes to door-to-door salespeople.

Grenville County OPP received numerous calls recently about two males who were canvassing residences in Augusta Township trying to sell in-home alarm systems. Some callers reported the canvassers were insistent about entering the homes. A suspicious vehicle related to the case was identified; Constable Foley is investigating.

It is up to the resident as to whether he or she answers the door and allows a salesperson to enter, police note in a news release. Ask for identification or for the salesperson to leave information on the product.

Anyone who calls police to report what he or she believes is suspicious activity is asked to provide details such as a licence plate number or description of the person.

In an emergency, call 9-1-1. If the situation is not life-threatening but might require immediate attention, call 1-888-310-1122.

Township council wants bank to reconsider closing branch

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council voted unanimously last Tuesday to endorse a letter to TD Canada Trust denouncing its decision to close its branch in Cardinal.

Mayor Peggy Taylor brought up the issue of the bank's closure during new business at the regular council meeting. Taylor indicated she wishes to get council to endorse a letter from the municipality expressing its displeasure with the closure and ask them to reconsider.

"I had a conversation with Mr. Powers of the Ottawa Valley region of the TD Canada Trust today," said Taylor. "He apologized for the bank not letting the township know. On Thursday, the bank representatives will be holding a meeting with the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association and (Leeds-Grenville Conservative MP) Gord Brown in Cardinal to discuss the reasons for the decisions, and I would ask council to endorse a letter so we have something to present them from the entire township."

After the unanimous vote, Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan indicated the meeting should provide some more answers.

"It will be interesting to hear the comments from the bank and people at the meeting," said Sloan. "We have a lot of people who don't drive and aren't able to get out of town to bank."

Councillor Charlie Burrell added the closure will be bad for the cash businesses in town.

Ward One Councillor Hugh Cameron explained he has received lots of phone calls and e-mails about concerned citizens since word has spread about the bank closing.

"The feedback has been considerable," said Cameron. "The type of feedback I've heard won't benefit the TD either. There are a lot of people who are saying they will go east (to the Royal Bank in Iroquois) rather than banking with TD in Prescott. For the bank to accept us as is for more than 100 years and then cut us off; this letter should be strongly worded."

CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald told The Journal Thursday the municipality still has a small account at TD Canada Trust in Cardinal, but does the majority of its banking at the Royal Bank in Spencerville.

Despite only having a small account at TD, McDonald indicated the impact from the closure will still have a big impact on the municipality.

"This will still affect us substantially," explained MacDonald. "This will be a big impact on a lot of citizens of the township to do their banking including paying their taxes at that bank."

Township axes garage sale bylaw

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council agreed to repeal an old bylaw from the former Township of Edwardsburgh at last Tuesday's regular council meeting in Spencerville.

By repealing the bylaw, the municipality will eliminate all regulations on garage sales across the township.

Council discussed the topic at the Aug. 25 committee-of-the-whole meeting and, after receiving negative feedback, changed its stance from implementing a uniform bylaw across the township which would limit residents to two garage sales through the year.

Previously, residents of the former village of Cardinal never had a bylaw regulating garage sales; residents of the former Municipality of Edwardsburgh had been limited to three garage sales a year.

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan indicated he wished to have a recorded vote on the bylaw, since he sees not having a bylaw on garage sales as a problem in the future.

"I'm opposed to it," said Sloan. "It's going to get us into trouble across the township in the future. We already have an issue in the old township with the bikes out for sale every day, this isn't going to fix anything."

Sloan was the lone member of council to vote against the bylaw.

Officials meet to discuss situation; plans to close bank remain unchanged

CARDINAL - A meeting between the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association (ECBA) and regional representatives from TD Canada Trust took place Thursday.

According to ECBA Secretary/Treasurer Marj Kempffer, the meeting included representatives of all three levels of government (Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor, Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown and Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman), with ECBA President Bill LaBerge providing the bank with a presentation on the importance of the bank to its local customers and the village as a whole. Kempffer added LaBerge explained staying and improving the current location could be used as a marketing tool, focusing on how the bank was there for the little people.

According to TD Canada Trust spokesperson Jeff Keay, the meeting has given the bank something to consider.

"I was not there, but from the input I have received there was a useful exchange of information," explained Keay. "The plans are still unchanged, except there were some interesting proposals made which we are going to take the time to look at."

ECBA indicated it is pleased with how the meeting went, but until it gets a final answer, it will still move forward with its plan to make sure there is a full service financial institution in Cardinal.

Council scraps committee-of-the-whole

SPENCERVILLE - Township council voted last Tuesday to eliminated the committee-of-the-whole format in favour of returning to separate committee meetings.

Under the new bylaw, three members of council must be on each committee, with one member hailing from each of the township's three wards, while the mayor would be a member of all committees.

Replacing the committee-of-the-whole format, which was implemented by Mayor Peggy Taylor in January, the committees will resume as they were in the previous arrangement: administration, environmental services and public works, parks, recreation and facilities management and community emergency management program.

With the new format, some of the newly-created committees such as the healthy communities committee would be disbanded.

"What happens is this slows the process up," said Taylor. "Topics that fell under healthy communities or the committee-of-the-whole will be able to be dealt with faster through each department."

Ward One Councillor Hugh Cameron expressed his approval of the bylaw, but would like a provision to be added indicating all committee meetings would be publicized on the township's Web site.

Taylor explained the committee-of-the-whole meeting process would cease following this month's meeting tonight in Johnstown.

McDonald explained the new committees will consist of only council and township staff. He added the appointments are made by the mayor after some consultation with councillors who indicate their interests.

Unwanted paint

CARDINAL ­ Grenville County OPP are investigating a paintball incident that occurred Friday afternoon.

A Benson Street resident noticed about four or five blue and pink paint marks on her house at about 4:15 pm. Constable Kavanagh arrived and also observed wet paint on the building. The investigation continues.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Ecumenical group serves breakfast

PRESCOTT ­ The Seaway Ecumenical Group returns to its monthly breakfast meeting schedule this Saturday, Sept. 18 at St. Paul's United Church (corner of George and Dibble streets).

The all-you-can-eat breakfast starts at 8 am. All are welcome. Tickets will be available at the door.

Brockville General Hospital CEO Ray Marshall is the scheduled guest speaker.

The ecumenical group's mission statement is to provide a forum for like-minded individuals for fellowship and to express Christian faith in the community.

Jr. B Rangers full of hope with return of key players

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - With more than 10 players returning to the line-up in 2004-05, the South Grenville Jr. B Rangers are cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season.

Rangers coach Rod Simmons explained his team should bring back a wealth of experience this season, despite still being a young team.

"We should have a pretty good group of kids," said Simmons. "We should have about 12 to 14 back. It should be good nucleus to build on if we can get good chemistry."

Simmons added most of the key players from last years team and they may get a pleasant surprise with a possible return from 16-year-old Brandon Kelley - one of the league's top scorers - who was cut from the Pembroke Lumber Kings Jr. A team.

"We'll be young, but hopefully we'll have a strong season," Simmons told The Journal. "Some of the guys like (Peter) Veltkamp and (Alex) Rees are back, and we're still waiting to see about Kelley. Our major concern right now is getting everyone on the same page going from the ice to the locker room."

Returning Ranger forward Adam Lawrence likes the look of the team and is looking forward to the season.

"It looks like we have a couple more goal scorers in camp this year," said Lawrence. "There seems to be more players with a higher talent level, which is good. Also we should be a little stronger on our feet and getting to the puck."

Lawrence expects to see a strong Rangers team this year, but was cautiously optimistic about the teams chances.

"I'm thinking we should be better than last year," said Lawrence. "Our goal is to do our best and improve on last year's performance."

According to Simmons a good number of past Rangers such as Peter Veltkamp, Alex Rees, Dustin Swan, Ben Bowden, Adam Toussant, Eric Selleck, Adam Lawrence, Justin Wiley, Braeden Miller and Greg Richardson will be back with the team this year as well as a crop of new recruits trying out, including local products Ryan Sullivan and Josh Rupert and Paul O'Connell, Skyler Hoar and Tim Potter from Spencer Birnie's Yorba Linda (California) Blackhawks major midget team which competed in the SGMHA tournament in March.

The Rangers are also taking long looks at other players, including Craig Riel from Plattsburgh, New York; Brad Simmons, from Ogdensburg; Matt Bailey, who was acquired from Morrisburg; Julien Francis from Quebec; and David Lun from Michigan.

South Grenville will kick off the season this Saturday, Sept. 18 at the Cardinal and District Community Centre with its annual roast beef dinner from 4 to 6 pm, before taking on the Westport Rideaus at 7:15 pm. The Rangers travel to Athens Sunday to take on the Aeros at 2:30 pm. South Grenville will also travel to Brockville to take on the Tikis next Wednesday, Sept. 22 at 7:45 pm.

Roebuck captures bantam boys fastpitch championship

ROEBUCK - The Roebuck bantam boys fastpitch team captured the Augusta Minor Softball championship Sept. 2 after defeating the Domville Aces 2-1 in a best-of-three series.

In the deciding game, pitchers Cory Alkerton of Roebuck
and Nathan Murray of Domville took centre stage, taking turns fanning batters early on in the game.

Alkerton came away with
the win, striking out 13 batters in the process while battling a
sore pitching hand after getting hit by a line drive in the early innings.

Roebuck secured the victory in the sixth inning as Alkerton did it at the plate as well, crushing a three-run home run.

Karie Neddo had three RBI for Roebuck, including a double and a single, while Wes Polite also had two hits.

Other hits for Roebuck came from Sam Whitley with a triple, Ryan Landon with a double and Chris Bryden with a single.

Murray led Domville with a double and an RBI, while Mike Conlin had a pair of singles.

Piranhas close out season in Kemptville

KEMPTVILLE - The Prescott Piranhas capped off the 2004 season with a sixth place overall finish Aug. 28 at the Kemptville swim meet.

Girls six and under

Holli Dalton: fifth, butterfly; sixth, breast stroke

Girls seven and eight

Emily Crozier: sixth, butterfly and breast stroke

Girls nine and ten

Jenny Minish: fifth, butterfly; sixth, breast stroke

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

Girls 11 and 12

Holly Crozier: fourth, breast stroke; fifth, back crawl

Hope Dalton: second, butterfly; fourth, breast stroke; sixth, freestyle

Boys 11 and 12

Kevin Cummings: first, back crawl; third, butterfly; fourth, individual medley

Relays

Girls seven and eight (Holli Dalton, Meagan Render, Lindsay Render): fifth, medley; sixth, freestyle

Girls nine and ten (Jenny Minish, Michaela Mills, Emily Crozier): fifth, medley; sixth, freestyle

Girls 11 and 12 (Holly Crozier, Hope Dalton): third, freestyle; fourth, medley

Putting ice back in arena no small feat

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - A week's worth of work by employees at the Leo Boivin Community Centre will make hundreds of kids happy throughout fall, winter and spring.

The four workers - John Ashford, Bob Dixon, Mike Longtin and Evan Cowan - have been hard at work since Monday putting in the ice at the rink, which should be ready to skate on next week.

According to the rink employees, the process is a tedious one, which can then move very fast at times and then at times be like watching ice freeze.

"It's one of those hurry-up-and-wait deals," said Ashford. "We'll go like mad at times with painting the lines and ice, then have to wait for the next layer of ice to freeze."

Longtin added, "We always usually start on a Monday to be ready for people to skate on it the following Monday."

The ice surface when it is finished will be roughly 1.5 inches thick, which the workers describe as about the perfect thickness since anything more would act as an insulator.

With pipes in the concrete cooling the water from beneath, the lines are brought up to
5/8" before the ice surface is painted using a six-foot-wide sprayer with 150 gallons of white paint, which will put two coats on the surface before it has to be flooded to seal in the paint. After that more layers are added and numerous measurements are taken, the lines, centre ice and blue line circles and any other logos or art work (such as the name of the arena or the South Grenville Minor Hockey Association logo) are painted on and sealed using a pebbling process which includes a fine spray of water to seal in the quick drying paint to make sure it doesn't run or smear.

"It's like if you have a freshly painted wall," said Ashford. "If you were to spray it with water, then it would run and come off. That's why we use a bunch of layers of pebbling to seal it."

The workers also indicated some of the lines across the ice are not painted but are made from a coloured tissue paper, which is covered through the pebbling process in order to seal in the line.

Ashford indicated the goal creases and offsides lines are given a second coat of paint in order to make sure the wear and tear doesn't affect them, since they are so important to the games play and how a referee calls a game.

Ashford added the painting of the lines and logos is the longest part of the process, but one of the most rewarding.

"The logos are used to dress up the ice, but it's pretty time-consuming," said Ashford. "This will probably take us up to three hours, but it will just look awesome when it's done."

According to the workers, who were finishing up painting everything onto the ice Friday morning, the rest of the process will include more than 20 floods to bring the process up to the 1.5-inch thickness.

Ashcroft explained the arena staff will now spend the rest of the hockey season maintaining the ice at its ideal thickness and, with any luck, no touch ups will need to be made.

2004 Piranhas award winners

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Piranhas swim team handed out its end-of-year awards Aug. 30 at the Prescott Fire Hall.

Top award winners were:

Best freestyle - Paige Stufko

Best butterfly - Adam Norton

Best back crawl - Holly Crozier

Best breast stroke - Shannon Steenwyk

Best individual medley - Jacob Hayes

Dedication - Greg and Kris Bradley

Sportsmanship - Meagan and Lindsay Render

Coaches Award - Sarah Steenwyk

Most Improved Junior - Holden James

Most Improved Senior - Braeden Smith

Rookie of the Year - Broyden Stufko

Swim of the year - Jackie Mills

Top Boy - Kevin Cummings

Top Girl - Jackie Mills, Michaela Mills and Paige Stufko

Edwardsburgh figure skating skating registration is tonight

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Edwardsburgh Figure Skating Club will hold 2004-05 registration sessions tonight (Wednesday, Sept. 15) from 6 to 8:30 pm and this Saturday, Sept. 18 from 9 am to 1 pm at the Edwardsburgh Community Centre.

Optimist Club hosting soap box derby Saturday in Spencerville

SPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville and District Optimist Club has sponsored a soap box derby to be held this Saturday (Sept. 18) in Spencerville.

The races will be held on Goodin Road, with registration starting at 9 am and races beginning at 10 am.

Children between the ages of eight and 16 are eligible to participate. All participants must wear a safety helmet.

Admission is free, with all entries winning prizes.

For more information, contact Germain at 658-2543 or Sheila at 658-5290.

PFSC registration is tomorrow

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Figure Skating Club is holding registration for its winter skating session tomorrow (Thursday, Sept. 16) from 6 pm until 8 pm at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

Skate Canada programs such as CanSkate, StarSkate and CanPowerSkate will be offered.

For more information on the winter school, contact Cindy McGuinn at 657-3979.

SGDHS girls basketball team hosting mixed slo-pitch tourney

DOMVILLE - The South Grenville District High School senior girls basketball team is continuing its fundraising campaign for its trip to Hawaii to compete in a tournament.

The team will be hosting a mixed slo-pitch tournament this Sunday (Sept. 19) at the Domville ball diamonds.

Eight to ten teams are required to fill the brackets.

Players can register individually or as a team. Each team is required to have a minimum of four females and six males. Cash prizes are up for grabs.

For more information, contact Diane Beaudoin at 925-4317, Marlene Neddo at 658-3159 or Brenda Watt at 926-2193.

Jr. B Rangers hosting annual golf tournament Oct. 3 at PGC

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers will be holding their annual golf tournament Oct. 3 at the Prescott Golf Club.

The tournament is a four-person scramble, which will feature a shotgun start at noon.

Anyone interested in participating in
the event is asked to register and pay before this Sunday (Sept. 19). Sign-up forms are available from call Jr. B Rangers committee members or at the golf club or Riverside Pontiac Buick.

For mor information, contact Tom Hare at 925-1650, Paul Irvine at 925-2630, Ron Gilmour at 657-3070 or Doug Casselman at 657-3433.

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