VOL. 175, NO. 2~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ January 12, 2005

Councils say yes, no and maybe to tsunami relief

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal donates $1,000, Augusta votes against, Prescott has not debated issue

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Each council in South Grenville has a different position when it comes to donating municipal funds to Asian and African relief efforts.

All but one of the members of Augusta council voted against providing support for the Dec. 26 tsunami disaster which devastated parts of Asia and Africa last month.

"When it comes to making donations, it's one thing to donate to local things like Spencerville Fair," Deputy Reeve Doug Barton said Monday night.

"I don't think it's up to us (council) to donate money to causes that taxpayers donate to anyways."

Reeve John McCrea echoed Barton's sentiments, saying "I heard on the CBC some agencies already have enough money."

Councillor John Fischl was in support of donating to the cause. "We did not spend all the money in the donation fund last year. We should give something from the fund."

However, Fischl did acknowledge many of the township's residents probably have donated to the disaster already.

Councillor Garry Ferguson also voted against lending support to the relief effort. Councillor Pauline Cyr did not attend the meeting; Reeve McCrea mentioned Cyr had indicated she was not feeling well.

When asked why council pledged $1,000 last year for flood relief in the City of Peterborough, Barton stated the city had helped Augusta monetarily during the 1998 ice storm.

No discussion at town council

The subject of whether or not the Town of Prescott should contribute to the Asian relief effort has not been discussed formally by council.

The issue did not arise at the Jan. 3 council meeting or during town committee meetings held Monday night. When The Journal raised the subject at the end of the public portion of the committee meetings, no one on council indicated he or she was planning to introduce a resolution on the matter.

Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn acknowledged the town has not taken a leadership role on this issue.

Some council members noted they thought about raising the subject at last week's meeting. They also said they have made donations to organizations providing tsunami relief in Asia and Africa.

Prescott council's next meeting will take place Monday, Jan. 17.

Last Tuesday, Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal council voted to donate $1,000. See story on Page 6 for more details.

On Monday, the federal government announced an aid package totalling $425 million over five years. This marks an increase from the $80 million the feds had committed to tsunami relief.

The period for matching federal funds for tsunami relief donations ended yesterday, but relief agencies continue to accept contributions. See related story inside.

As of earlier this week, the death toll had risen to more than 150,000.

THIS WEEK

Festive RIDE produces no impaired charges

PRESCOTT ­ The Grenville County OPP detachment has completed its 2004 Festive RIDE Campaign.

Between Dec. 15 and Jan. 1, about 1,300 vehicles were stopped at RIDE checks in or near Prescott. No impaired driving charges were laid.

Seven roadside tests were conducted, and one 12-hour licence suspension was issued. The local RIDE checks produced one Highway Traffic Act charge and 33 warnings, one seat belt charge and five warnings, one insurance act charge and one drug warning.

Price of postage stamps going up on Monday

OTTAWA ­ The cost of mailing a card or letter is about to rise.

As of Monday, Jan. 17, the price of sending a standard letter within Canada will increase from 49 to 50 cents (54 cents, including GST). The cost of mailing a letter to the United States will cost 85 cents (plus GST), up from 80 cents. Postage for an international letter will increase from $1.40 to $1.45.

Other Canada Post rate hikes take effect Jan 17. Price charts are available at local post offices; information is also available at www.canadapost.ca /rates.

Brown Owl on menu at breakfast meeting

PRESCOTT ­ The Seaway Ecumenical Group's first meeting of 2005 will take place this Saturday, Jan. 15 in the hall at St. Paul's United Church.

Breakfast will be served at 8 am. The guest speaker will be Molly "Brown Owl" Faessen, who will talk about recent Girl Guide trips to Africa and India.

Tickets will be available at the door; all are welcome to attend.

St. Paul's is located at the corner of George and Dibble streets.

The ecumenical group provides a forum for like-minded individuals for fellowship and to express Christian faith in the community.

Be a special friend to a child by volunteering

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville is seeking volunteers for its in-school mentoring program.

Mentors and mentees in grades 3-5 spend an hour a week together in a school setting to share fun activities such as cooking, sports, reading, craft-making or game-playing. The program is in place at many public and Catholic schools in the region.

Adults with time to spare and a talent to share are encouraged to take part in this community program.

For more information, call Susan at 345-0281.

Armed robbery in North Augusta

NORTH AUGUSTA ­ Police are searching for a man who tried to rob Finucan's General Store in North Augusta Monday night.

Grenville County OPP report a lone male entered the store at about 6:30 pm and, after handing the 78-year-old male clerk the money for a purchase, demanded the money in the register. The suspect made the clerk aware he had a weapon. As of press time, the police did not indicate what type of weapon was used in the robbery.

The clerk slammed the till shut and refused to give up the money. A male witness tried to apprehend the suspect as he left. A scuffle ensued, and the suspect was let go in the parking lot. He ran west on County Road 6. Police arrived about 12 to 13 minutes later and could not locate the suspect. A K-9 unit tracked the suspect to vehicle marks where police suspect he was picked up. No one was injured.

The suspect is described as a white male under the age of 20 who is 5'6" to 5'8" with a slim build. He was wearing a grey two-toned jacket and dark toque.

OPP Constable Wheeler is the lead investigating officer. Anyone with information is asked to call 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Ella Mary gives family great start to 2005

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - For LauraLee and Ken Scott of Prescott, the arrival of their first baby, Ella Mary, was a very welcome occasion. The couple is delighted to have had what is believed to be the "New Year's Baby" of the South Grenville area.

"Ella was born a couple of days early," stated LauraLee, 32. She added her water broke at home at 2:30 am Monday, Jan. 3. She was rushed to Brockville General Hospital, where the baby was born at 4:26 pm.

Because Ella is her first child, Lauralee says she didn't know what to expect from the delivery. However, she said labour was easier than she expected. "The doctor (Dr. Adam Steacie) said 'We would like to move things on a little and induce labour' (in the early afternoon)," stated LauraLee. "Just the threat of inducing sped along my delivery."

At birth, Ella Mary Scott weighed five pounds, three ounces, measured 17 and 3/4 inches, and was in perfect health.

"The baby is definitely a welcome addition to our family," gushed LauraLee. She added the couple didn't want to know the sex of the child, but were both hoping to have a little girl.

"We didn't want to know what it was," explained Lauralee. "I was pretty excited when he (her husband Ken) leaned over and said 'We got our girl.'"

LauraLee and Ken explained their excitement was mirrored by the excitement of both sets of grandparents, Lorne and Diane Watling of Prescott and Don and Alice Scott of Brockville. "It's the first grandchild for both sets of grandparents," explained Ken. "They're very excited."

LauraLee is quick to credit her delivery doctor (Dr. Steacie) at BGH, as well as the nurses who stayed with her throughout Ella's delivery. "I couldn't say enough good things about Brockville (General Hospital)," stated LauraLee.

Having a new baby means a few changes at LauraLee's Prescott business, Moonshine Supplies, in the short term. "For the month of January, the store will be practically closed," she explained, adding her mother may work at the store a couple of days. "My customers have been so supportive (of having the baby)," said LauraLee, adding some of her customers even offered to work in the store while Lauralee is adjusting to motherhood.

However, LauraLee doesn't anticipate having a problem finding childcare when she does go back to work. "I've had lots of offers from my mom to babysit when the time comes (to return to work)," she said.

Crosswalk signals a go this week

PRESCOTT ­ As upgrades to two crosswalks in Prescott are about to be completed, Grenville County OPP advise motorists and pedestrians to take notice.

New equipment (including traffic lights) is to be installed later this week at the Victor Road (South Grenville District High School) and Park Street area (St. Mark School) crossings. The existing crosswalk at Irvine Street (Burger King) is not being upgraded.

Pedestrians can activate the traffic signals by pushing a button located on both sides of each crossing. Motorists are to deal with the green, yellow and red signals as they would at intersections.

Once a pedestrian has entered a crosswalk, he or she has the right of way, and vehicles must stop. However, the pedestrian must ensure the way is safe and vehicles have a safe distance in which to stop before he or she enters the roadway. At Victor Road, each of the four lanes of traffic must stop and remain stopped until the pedestrian is safely across the respective lanes.

Bicycles are not to be ridden through crosswalks.

The fine for failing to yield the right of way to a pedestrian at a crosswalk is $90 plus a victim surcharge of $20. The offence also comes with a penalty of three demerit points.

Police plan to visit local schools and tell children how to use crosswalks safely.

Woolham's concerns with Augusta official plan heard at OMB hearing

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - At a Jan. 7. hearing of the Ontario Municipal Board (OMB), township resident Bob Woolham presented an appeal involving two concerns he had with Augusta Township's official plan.

However, the municipal board representative did not rule in his favour.

Woolham had two major issues with the revised plan, which was drafted June 26, 2003. The first was the amount of clearance which the plan grants to developing property adjacent to wetlands in the township, which he feels is excessive at 120 metres. Woolham's other issue involves the stipulation in the plan for an 800-metre "doughnut" around any found nests of the loggerhead shrike, an endangered species of bird in Canada.

"I've had an ongoing interest in the official plan for some time now," stated Woolham.

At the hearing, Woolham first aired his concern about the wetlands clearance issue. "The planner has included all wetlands at 120 metres," stated Woolham. "The policy is very restrictive."

Woolham added that, in his opinion, neighbouring townships to Augusta all have lower development distances. "Merrickville-Wolford and Elizabethtown-Kitley are all less restrictive (than Augusta)," he stated.

His criticism was countered by Augusta's planner Glenn Tunnock, who said the clearance distance was made by consulting the Natural Heritage Reference Manual. "It's been used in the preparation of many official plans across Ontario," Tunnock stated. "I have no reason to doubt the manual."

He added that, in his opinion the 120-metre wetland clearance does not mean that all development is forbidden in the clearance area. "My experience before the board was that adjacent lands is a study area, not a buffer area," Tunnock stated. "It's not an area where development is necessarily prohibited."

Tunnock also acknowledged protection of Augusta's wetland areas is important. "If it's a question of designing with nature, we have an obligation as a municipality to manage wetlands and natural features as well as we can," he said.

Woolham's second concern, involving the placement of an 800-metre protection area around any found nests of loggerhead shrikes in the township, was addressed by Shaun Thompson, the district ecologist for the Ministry of Natural Resources in Kemptville.

"When you draw a circle around a shrike nest, you only deal with shrike habitat," stated Thompson. He added if the 'doughnut' area includes non-shrike habitat (such as wetlands or forest), then the 800-m doughnut does not apply.

"I have over 30 head of cattle," stated Woolham. "What are the prospects of people putting up (shrike) habitat on my property?"

Thompson countered that, according to resources the MNR has to track shrike populations, the possibility is "extremely low that your (Woolham's) land will be used for shrike habitat."

Woolham also expressed concern that provisions made for loggerhead shrike habitat is just the "tip of the iceberg" for the township instituting other measures to protect other endangered species.

After considering the information presented by Woolham, as well as the testimony from Tunnock and Thompson, Ontario Municipal Board member Narasim Katary said; "This citizen has taken a legitimate interest in his property rights... however, the board is satisfied the policies do not impact on landowners rights. The appeal is dismissed."

At the conclusion of the hearing, Augusta legal counsel John Simpson said "There's no question the township values Mr. Woolham's input." However, he also mentioned it was his feeling all of Woolham's concerns could have been addressed at the mediation meeting for the official plan held this past September.

Woolham was not pleased his appeal did not result in any changes being made to the official plan. "I was the only appeal," he stated. "Now the plan will go through."

OPP ­ TOWNSHIPS NEWS

Load of scrap metal spills

AUGUSTA ­ On the evening of Thursday, Jan. 6, a transport was westbound on Highway 401 near the Prescott exit when it went out of control while passing another truck. The transport struck the snow-covered shoulder on the median and then flipped onto its side, spilling a load of 35,000 lbs. of scrap metal. The 38-year-old Cornwall driver was not injured. Augusta firefighters were placed on standby as the truck and its load were removed. The westbound lanes were closed until about 2 am the next morning.

No charges are pending; Constable Butcher is the investigating officer.

Fuel truck fails inspection

MAITLAND ­ With the assistance of Ministry of Transportation Inspection Officer Hopewell, OPP Constable Jones conducted a commercial vehicle inspection blitz on County Road 15 near Maitland on Tuesday, Jan. 4.

Fifteen inspections were done. One truck checked was a 1997 Peterbilt tractor pulling a tanker loaded with 52,000 lbs. of fuel and on its way to New York state. Upon inspection, the trailer was found to have 100 per cent brake failure. The tanker and truck were pulled off the road until the problem was addressed. The 44-year-old driver from Malone was issued a provincial offence notice for failing to conduct a pre-trip inspection. The company, Malone Transport, was also charged for the unsafe vehicle.

Two Highway Traffic Act charges and two warnings were also issued during the blitz.

Dog and chain found near highway

EDWARDSBURGH ­ On Jan. 8, a large dog with no ID and attached to a chain was found wandering near Highway 416 at the Spencerville exit. Constable Kerr called the township bylaw officer to help with the dog, which is now in the possession of the SPCA. The dog can be claimed by calling the bylaw officer, Chris Arsenault, at 652-1707.

Calls spread throughout the area

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Grenville County OPP officers based in Prescott responded to 144 calls for service last week.

Forty-five calls were in Prescott. Twenty-five came from Augusta, 25 from Edwardsburgh and 14 from Cardinal. There were also 27 calls on Highway 401 and eight calls on Highway 416.

Of the 31 motor vehicle collisions investigated, 20 were single-vehicle. Seven crashes involved deer.

There were also 15 false alarm calls, nine of which led to 9-1-1 activations.

Crime Stoppers is a rewarding program

Anonymous tipsters provide information worth billions

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

KINGSTON ­ The value of Crime Stoppers continues to mount.

The worldwide program founded nearly 30 years in ago in the southwestern United States offers cash rewards to anonymous tipsters whose information leads law enforcement agencies to make arrests, recover stolen drugs and stolen goods and solve crimes.

The worldwide program achieved a milestone in 2004 by surpassing the $5-billion mark in terms of illicit drugs seized.

January is Crime Stoppers Month. OPP Detective Constable Shirley Steward, co-ordinator of the Kingston/1000 Islands program (including South Grenville), noted Crime Stoppers has also been successful at the local level.

Since 1988, the Kingston/1000 Islands program has resulted in 1,125 arrests and 1,375 cases being cleared. Information provided to local Crime Stoppers has led to the recovery of more than $34 million worth of drugs, $38,000 in cash and nearly $4 in stolen property.

"Crime Stoppers is a program that works," Steward said.

Crime Stoppers' toll-free number is 1-800-222-8477. The local program does not use call display or similar identification features. Callers who are assigned code numbers can call back to find out if they have been selected for a reward; if a reward is approved, arrangements are made for the caller to collect the money without having to identify himself or herself by name.

Crime Stoppers does not receive direct government funding. Money in the reward fund is raised by a local board of directors which also determines who receives reward money (up to $2,000) and how much. Until recently, the maximum amount was $1,000. The minimum reward is $50.

Just over half of eligible callers opt not to collect a reward, Steward told The Journal. Many callers are just happy they are able to help police deal with crime, the detective constable added.

There are 11 people on the local board, which meets on a monthly basis. Steward said new members are welcome. For more information, call (613) 386-3307, send an e-mail to crimestp@kingston.net or visit www.callcrimestoppers.ca.

Minor soccer founder dies

PRESCOTT ­ A funeral service will be held today for the man known as Prescott's "Mr. Soccer."

Tom Carr died Saturday, He was 82.

Carr was one of the founders of the minor soccer program in Prescott. He served as president of the minor soccer association for more than 30 years.

A member of the Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame, Carr received the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award in 2001.

The funeral will take place at 2 pm at St. John's Anglican Church.

Belarus drive begins in Johnstown

South Edwardsburg school students collect supplies

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

JOHNSTOWN - Once again, the small 125-student South Edwardsburg Public School is trying to make a big impact with a two-week long Canadian Aid for Chernobyl drive.

Neil Matheson and Robin TeKamp, who attended last year's shipment of supplies and humanitarian relief, spoke to the school's students for 30 minutes thanking them for their support as well as reminding them of how much they have compared to their Belarussian counterparts affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster caused by radioactive fallout from the Chernobyl nuclear power facility in 1986.

"These kids need help with educational supplies and toiletries," Matheson told the students.

"They don't have nearly as much as you do. For the children, one class from this school sent a bunch of pencil crayons there and they were so happy to have them to draw pictures to decorate their classrooms, because they don't have any pictures on the walls. Those students were so greatful for that they wanted us to take some of the pictures they had drawn as a thank you."

Matheson continued, indicating a $50 food box for families contained roughly 50-70 lbs of food and could last a family for months.

"I can't put into words how great you children have been," said Matheson. "Right from the start, you got behind this and were ready to help out. I'm very impressed with a school that can give such an impressive gift like you guys did with your kindness and thoughts about these children."

The school is collecting a variety of items including used items which are in good shape like clothing, hygiene products, toys, educational supplies or anything felt someone from Belarus with much less might enjoy.

Last year, the school collected more than 2,300 items for the cause, with most of the items being sent to the Chausy orphanage.

The school began collecting items Monday for the two-week campaign.

Everything collected from South Edwardsburg will be packaged with other items collected for the cause and delivered personally by a Canadian contingent which includes Matheson and a group of locals.

Anyone wishing to donate items can drop them off at the school on 4th Street in Johnstown during regular school hours from Monday until Friday until Jan. 21.

For more information, call the school at 925-4183.

Regional jobless rate stays the same, EI claim total rises in December

KINGSTON ­ The regional unemployment rate remained unchanged in December, according to figures released by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).

The jobless rate for the region that includes South Grenville stood at 5.2 per cent last month.

Employment in the goods-producing sector (most notably construction) decreased, according to an HRSDC release. Most of the increase in the services-producing sector occurred in educational services.

In Dec. 2003, the regional jobless rate was 5.5 per cent.

Although the unemployment rate was unchanged, there was a 13.5-per-cent increase in the total number of Employment Insurance (EI) claimants in the Kingston-Pembroke management area as of the end of December.

The Prescott HRSDC office reported 1,092 regular and special EI claims at the end of the month compared to 924 at the end of November (an increase of 18.2 per cent). All offices in the management area reported higher claim totals in December.

HRSDC notes unemployment rates are not determined by assessing EI claimant data.

The regional jobless rate remains lower than rates for Ontario and Canada.

Augusta council is back on track with support for train whistle study

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - A resolution to support a study to determine whether or not railway level crossings in Augusta Township are safe enough to go without train whistles was passed Monday night.

"The purpose of this study is to get answers instead of speculating (about the safety of eliminating train whistles)," stated Ken Durand, who spoke to council as a delegation on behalf on the "Stop the Train Whistles" committee in Augusta.

Durand spoke of the necessity of eliminating train whistles in the township. He also mentioned a study done by the committee which determined that, of 473 people polled south of the 401, 441 people indicated they wanted the whistles eliminated. "Ninety-three per cent (in South Augusta) want the train whistles stopped," stated Durand.

This study, which would be undertaken by Transport Canada and CN, would determine the safety of the five public crossings, and the single private crossing (on the Invista site) in the township. The resolution council passed supports the study up to $5,000.

All monies from the study are to come from the township's economic development committee budget.

Although council did support the study, some council members did express concern about the financial burden on the township if the study determines costly fixes would be required to make the township's level crossings safe enough to go without whistles. Reeve John McCrea also mentioned that the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville (three of the townships crossings are on county roads) is not under any obligation to support the elimination of train whistles.

Schools make effort to help tsunami relief

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ Both English-language school boards in the region are involved in Asian relief efforts.

The student senate of the Upper Canada District School Board will oversee a board-wide fundraising drive, it was announced last week. The nature of the drive will be decided at a senate meeting Jan. 18. The public board and its student senate will work closely with the Canadian Red Cross, according to a news release.

The board-wide effort will not compete with initiatives already under way at individual schools, it was noted in the release.

"Because of the enormity of this disaster and its long-term impact, it's critical for our board to play a key role in developing a far-reaching initiative that involves all of our schools collectively," Director of Education David Thomas stated.

On Monday, the Upper Canada board reported more than $60,000 had been raised by 30 of its 103 schools.

As for the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario (CDSBEO) many schools have already organized fundraising events. Long-range financial support for communities devastated by the Dec. 26 tsunamis is also being planned at some schools.

Schools were encouraged to collect funds and take them to their local parishes Sunday as part of a special collection taken at Catholic churches.

The Catholic board also noted students are being encouraged to express their feelings about the destruction and pain depicted in video images shown on television. "Teachers and school chaplains have been sent resources and discussion suggestions that are designed to help answer some of the difficult questions that are being asked about the disaster," a CDSBEO release stated.

The public board also noted it would be educating its students on details of the disaster.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Sixteen is young, but sometimes 25 to 30 is young, too."

Augusta Reeve John McCrea, commenting on a proposal to lower the voting age

Editor's Notebook

PREMIER HAD IT COMING: Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams is reportedly "mad as hell" about some of the responses to his decision to have Canadian flags removed from provincial buildings in the province just before Christmas to protest the status of federal-provincial negotiations on off-shore oil and gas money.

Although we do not condone use of terms such as "welfare ghetto" to describe the province, we have to wonder what Mr. Williams was expecting.

The premier indicated removal of the flags was symbolic and to be a temporary measure aimed at getting the prime minister to act. What it ended up doing, sir, is to get millions of Canadians to wonder about your competence and that of your government. We have no beef with the people of Newfoundland and Labrador as you say you have no grudge with Canadians. Your protest might have served to shore up support at home for your position, but is came across to others as petty, hollow and insulting.

Maybe your province has not been treated fairly, and maybe the feds are reneging on something that had been promised or pledged. It doesn't really matter to most of us, though; all we noticed is you ordered the Maple Leaf to come down. For every Canadian outside the province who took notice and made an effort to become more familiar with both sides of the natural resources issue, countless others were left believing your symbolic gesture was inappropriate and, ultimately, ineffective.

Mr. Williams, you have every right to voice your concerns about the way Newfoundland and Labrador is being treated. However, by pulling down those flags you have to expect the rest of Canada will exercise its right to free speech. You might be offended by some of the reactions, but what did you expect?

DOWNTOWN NEEDS TO DIG IN: At a time when many main street merchants are trying to figure out what to do to improve sales and generate interest in downtown Prescott, some might want to consider one of the "little things" that could help make a difference. Last Thursday's snowstorm and its aftermath served as a reminder of one of those smaller gestures appreciated by pedestrians and drivers alike.

On the days when snowbanks pile up and public works crews are unable to remove them until after the end of the work day, all it takes is a few minutes to clear a path to the entrance to the store or office. The people who take the time to do this are noticed... as are the ones who do not.

Bringing out the shovels will, by no means, bring an end to the ongoing debate over what to do about getting more people to shop downtown, but it is a gesture that shows we are thinking about the people on whom we rely to keep our businesses and offices open.

Tim Ruhnke

Kindness from passersby has renewed my holiday spirit

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS by David Dickenson

After dealing with a bit of last-second shopping, I automatically figured the Christmas spirit was dead.

People pushing and shoving, people cutting people off (both walking and driving) and people just swarming each and every sale like buzzards swooping down on their prey.

But I have to admit I'm singing a bit of a different tune now after my Boxing Day experience which renewed my belief in the Holiday season but also marked a pretty crappy day.

On that fateful Boxing Day, I woke up early and got set to travel to Westport to watch the Jr. B Rangers take part in the Boxing Day Tournament, but I never quite made it there.

After driving in the blistering cold and blowing snow through Athens and Delta, I pulled into Forfar and got sight of the dairy, before my car decided to be a problem and stalled as the heat conked out and radiator fluid dripped underneath the car.

After opening the hood and taking a quick gander at the possible problems, I shut the hood and started to push and steer the car out of the way of traffic.

That's when a very kind and helpful couple from Oshawa (Don and Lynn Pitman) stopped and decided to help.

In that blistering cold, they parked at the side of the road and helped me push. After that they let me use their cell phone to call home and get someone to get me a tow and pick me up.

I was just amazed by the absolute show of kindness, especially from some people from a big city like Oshawa.

But the kindness didn't end there, Don and Lyn insisted I accompany them to their relatives' house to drop off Lynn before returning. They said there is no way they are leaving me alone in a cold car with a blistering wind blowing about.

They treated me as if I was one of their own children. They sat and joked with me as if they had known me all their lives and, surprisingly, my desire to let out a flurry of expletives about my stupid car faded and I was actually smiling as they sat with me and waited until the cavalry arrived.

They asked nothing from me, and refused anything including my macho crap about I'll be alright out here since I've already called for a tow.

I have to say, as someone who tends to dread the holidays and someone who really believes the spirit of the season is pretty weak, my spirit has been renewed.

Some might say my heart grew three sizes that day.

Thanks again Don and Lynn, you not only showed true kindness in your act, but you have helped renew my holiday spirit.

Voters decide Augusta will no longer be "dry" township: 1965

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Jan. 13, 1965

* The last "dry" municipality in the district has gone "wet" as Augusta Township voters gave their approval to three options listed in a liquor plebiscite. Beer, wine and liquor can now be served with meals at restaurants, and lounges can now serve liquor.

Keith Matthie, chairman of the Vote No Committee, would not commit to whether or not the committee would seek a recount.

* DuPont of Canada's Maitland Works employed 1,175 people as of the end of 1964, Manager J.O. Gage reported.

The plant contributed nearly $10 million to the local economy in the form of salaries, wages, purchases and local taxes.

* Melvin "Hink" McIntyre has been re-elected chairman of the Public Utilities Commission in Prescott. The other commissioners are Murray Beach, Harry Ranson, J.L.G. Coligan and Mayor Donald Irvine.

Jan. 16, 1985

* Twelve members of the town's 1984 committee received the Community Service Award from the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce. This is only the third time to date the annual award has gone to a group rather than an individual.

Bonnie Bishop, president of South Grenville District High School's Students Against Drinking and Driving group, was named the winner of the Connie Dickey Youth of the Year Award. Robert Caldwell presented her the award at the Chamber's annual dinner.

* Union officials are going to Ottawa to prevent changes from taking place at the Canada Immigration Centre located in the federal building on Centre Street. Staff have been notified the operation would be replaced by a part-time service.

Union official Roy Lalonde said the move would break a deputy minister's promise that cost-cutting measures would not affect service to the public.

* In a feature on municipal staff, Ross Cummings, Edwardsburgh Township's roads superintendent, was quoted as saying: "If I send somebody out at midnight (for snow removal operations), I just can't sleep. I generally get up at two and go around and check that everybody is okay. My wife says I don't know enough to stay at home."

Bullying problem is out of control in Ontario public schools

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

In about a month, my family will have finally moved back to Ontario with me. For my two sons, I am afraid. As they enter the elementary school system in this province, they will be subjected to bullying.

In fact, the bullying problem in Ontario elementary schools is worse than even I imagined it ever could be.

No, I'm not talking about tough kids picking on other kids.

I'm talking about the Ontario teachers unions using my kids and your kids as hostages as they bully the province and the public in their efforts to get more.

Elementary school teachers in Ontario will be holding their strike vote on Monday. The vote for high school teachers is expected to be announced later this month. The end result will likely be yet another work-to-rule situation that will kick into effect by March or April, followed by what their union leader calls "more significant action" in the fall. The union, talking tough, said they will do what it takes to get their way in this conflict.

Ontario teachers have given us labour disruptions under every provincial government going back to the 1970s. The teachers and their union loved to moan about everything education related under Mike Harris, but the governments of Bill Davis, Bob Rae and David Peterson all had problems with teacher demands. Think of that for a minute ­ even the Bob Rae NDP government, which was Ontario's most union-friendly government ever, couldn't make the teachers happy.

The contract offered to the teachers by the province was more than fair. Teachers were offered a two per cent increase this year and next year, and two-and-a-half per cent and three per cent increases in the third and fourth years.

But, the elementary school teachers union says, money is not the issue. The issue is preparation time. Teachers currently get 150 minutes of preparation time per week. They want 200 minutes and will do what it takes to get it. Their union says their teachers are burning out, and 30 per cent of new teachers are leaving the profession.

So, our children's right to an education is being jeopardized for 50 extra minutes ­ or 10 minutes per school day ­ by the teachers union.

This whole scenario makes it pretty hard to buy into any teacher saying, "I'm doing this for the kids," or "I became a teacher because I want to make a difference." Maybe the intentions started out that way. Individually, most teachers do care about the kids and do want to make a difference. But if teachers were in it for the kids, they would not make our children pawns over 10 minutes a day. Many teachers give a lot of their personal time to coach or to volunteer for programs at the schools and in the community, but the demands of their union overshadows these individual commitments and sacrifices. Most people in the real world have to prepare on their own time. In fact, most of us even have to stay at work past 3:30 pm. And we don't even get summers off, a two-week Christmas vacation or a March break, nor do most of us have the lucrative pension and benefits plans that teachers have.

As for the 30 per cent of new teachers leaving, maybe those teachers just don't have what it takes. If a young teacher can't cut it, I highly doubt that an extra 10 minutes of prep time per day will matter. A turnover like this is not uncommon at the entry level in the professional world.

The teachers union will always demand more for one simple reason. They can. They will continue to do so until education is declared an essential service in Ontario and it becomes illegal for teachers to strike. Education should be an essential service. In fact, it is shocking and a provincial outrage that it is not. Until it is an essential service, we will go through this exercise every time their contracts are up, no matter how much money or what concessions are offered.

If there is some brilliant irony in this whole situation, it is that the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan, one of the best pension plans in Canada with billions in investments, has a 58 per cent stake in Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, which owns the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Air Canada Centre. While the Ontario teachers are once again putting it to the province, their pension has $450 million tied up in the most influential cornerstone franchise in the National Hockey League, a league that has locked out its players.

Oh, how the management teams of the teachers union and pension must think that hockey players are overpaid and underworked, and that the demands of their union are ridiculous.

It almost makes the hockey lockout worthwhile.

We all need to understand that they face stress and pressure in their daily lives. But, at the union level, they suffer from the same lack of perspective that hockey players do. It's just time that the bullying stopped. It's not fair to the children of Ontario.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

MPAC official reassesses contents of Journal article

The Editor;

I would like to clarify some comments that were printed in the article, "Cancellation of assessment gives MPAC a chance to catch up," that appeared in the Prescott Journal Dec. 8, 2004.

First, I would like to make clear the main reason why the 2004 province-wide assessment update of property values was cancelled. In the provincial government's spring budget, the Minister of Finance announced several changes to Ontario's property assessment cycle. In particular, the government changed the common date by which properties are assessed from June 30 to Jan. 1 of the year before the taxation year. In order to allow for a smooth transition to the new valuation date, the Minister of Finance cancelled the 2004 province-wide update. As a result, only those owners whose property has undergone a change since the last assessment update in 2003 received a property assessment notice this fall.

The new valuation date will give the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) an additional six months each year to finalize the assessments on more than 4.3 million properties before they are sent to property owners and municipalities.

The next province-wide assessment update will take place in 2005, based on a Jan. 1, 2005 valuation date for taxation in 2006. Every property owner in Ontario will receive a property assessment notice in the fall of 2005.

For more information about property assessment, please visit MPAC's web site at www.mpac.ca.

Michel Contant
Account Manager, Municipal Relations - Cornwall MPAC

Editor's note: This letter was received by e-mail Tuesday, Jan. 4, nearly one month after the article in question was published. The Journal stands by the contents of the article.

SCHOOL SCENE

Algonquin Public School (continued from last week): At the seniors Christmas luncheon, other musical performances included piano solos performed by Dan Halladay and Nate Livingstone as well as that of the quintet of Brittany Smith, Amara Heisel, Faith Campbell, Chad Warren and Brad Porter playing Good King Wenceslas on their recorders. Each class was also treated to a French performance of Le Pere Noel by Faith Campbell, Amara Heisel and Brittany Smith. Throughout December, artistic talents continued to blossom with some outstanding art creations including special mosaic portraits, Christmas word collages, 3-D scenes, dioramas, metre-high paper Christmas trees, shape angels, tempera poinsettias and a class project painting of the Christmas carol.

Benson Public School: Benson students are being recognized this month for there efforts to co-operate. On Friday, Jan. 7, Kaela Ranchuk, Elizabeth Bygott, Keisha Halladay, Dalton, Piche, Jody Sullivan, Janessa Van Koppen, Rebecca Blue and Brittany Hamilton were presented with certificates at our assembly.

Mrs. Duvall's Grade 1 students are studying money in math class and they want to raise money to help people in Asia who were hit by the tsunami. Students are asking everyone to bring in a toonie, loonie, quarter, dime, nickel and penny. This adds up to a total of $3.41, less than two slices of pizza on pizza day. Everyone is invited to send this in an envelope with name, grade and teacher's name on it. Even if you are not a student at Benson, we would be happy to receive your envelope. Students are going to make a graph in the main hallway showing how much money was collected.

Boundary Street Public School: École de Neige students returned safely from the Quebec trip. We acknowledge staff and parent volunteers who made the experience such a success.

Our character education and student recognition assembly was held last week. The following students are to be congratulated: Austin Carmichael, Laura McKinstry, Yvonne Jin, Jasper Quartus, Joseph Hare, Chelsea Stokes, Joshua Vail, Logan Shannon, Brooke Shedrick, Devon Stoddard, Ryan Clements, Kyle Van Allen, Elisha Hoogwerf, Kaitlyn Merkley, Taylor Hughes, Jordon Marshall, Shawnia Merkley, David Armstrong, Tia Bannister and Blake Johnson.

Mrs. Fortier has started boys basketball practices.

On their own initiative, students in Mrs. Combs' and Mrs. Wainwright's classes have started collecting funds for the tsunami relief effort. Students may make any donations during lunchtime.

Hot lunch this week is hamburgers.

St. Joseph Catholic School: Thanks to the St. Joseph Catholic School Community for raising $625.00 for the victims of the tsunami in southeast Asia. Students and staff certainly rose to the challenge.

Congratulations also to the December Burger King Students of the Month: Nick Beattie, Kristen Cassidy, Emily Tobin, Lauren Smith, Carly Joudoin, Cameron Crawford, Nathaniel Benish, Jonathan Bernier, Alex Wynands and Victoria Lafontaine.

Tryouts for the St. Joseph senior girls and boys basketball teams are taking place this week. Tournaments are coming up in early February.

Our January Mass is on Wednesday, Jan. 12. Come and join us and Father Appelman as we celebrate the beginning of Ordinary Time. We acknowledge Mrs. Laton and Grade 8L for organizing this Celebration of the Eucharist.

There will be a St. Joe's Dance Friday, Jan. 14. One dollar from each ticket sold will go to charity.

St. Mark Catholic School: Happy New Year!

Throughout the holidays, we were greatly saddened and disturbed by the news southeast Asia has been devastated by a tsunami. At St. Mark, we are asking students to bring in a loonie or a toonie for chores they do at home to help out around the house and donate the money to relief funding. Students will put a red dot sticker on a cross, located in the main hallway, for each loonie or toonie donated. We will continue this for the entire month of January.

School council will meet Thursday, Jan. 13 at 7 pm. All parents are welcome to join us.

Skating for our students will be held at the Leo Boivin Community Centre Friday, Jan. 14 from 1-3 pm. Please see the schedule for each classroom.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

South Edwardsburg Public School: During the month of January, our character education program is focusing on the quality of compassion. This character trait was brought to life Friday, Jan. 7 when two delegates from Canadian Aid for Chernobyl made an inspirational presentation about humanitarian aid that has been taken to Belarus.

Neil Matheson and Robin TeKamp exemplified the quality of compassion as they discussed their experiences in the contaminated zone of Belarus. Students and staff are now embarking on a two-week campaign to collect donations of used clothing, toys, etc. The collected items are to be sent to Belarus in march.

The school council meeting for tomorrow has been postponed to Jan. 27. We welcome everyone to attend.

Hot lunch today is hot dogs.

Board, committee spots available

PRESCOTT ­ The town is putting out another call for volunteers to serve on community-based committees and boards.

The municipality is seeking additional members for a number of groups ranging from the library, police services and youth centre boards to the museum board and skateboard park committee. Most committees and boards meet monthly or less frequently.

For more information on volunteering, contact the town at 925-2812 or visit the municipal offices on the second floor of 360 Dibble St. W.

Avoid after-hour donation drop-off: Salvation Army

PRESCOTT ­ The Salvation Army is asking the public not to make any after-hours drop-offs of clothes and other items at the thrift store on King Street.

The request followed a series of break-ins at the community church's sorting centre on First Avenue in Brockville in late December and a Christmas Day incident which involved the clothing drop-off box at Canadian Tire in Brockville. The steel door was dismantled, and the contents (items donated to help the less fortunate) were removed.

In requesting an end to donated items being left outside the Prescott thrift shop when it is closed, the Salvation Army noted it has a pick-up service. Call 342-5211.

By releasing information on the break-ins, the Salvation Army is hoping it and the public can work together to apprehend the thief or thieves and to deter others from committing similar acts. Anyone with information on those occurrences is asked to contact Brockville police or the Salvation Army.

Bridge reopens when weather gets better

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

With the piles of snow and cold, the Wednesday night bridge people have decided to cancel their evenings until the weather improves. Many people felt it was a good way to spend a long winter evening, but too few actually braved the night to come out.

Book club members are reminded their meeting is next Wednesday, Jan. 19 at 1 pm. If you are interested in reading and would share your views on different authors and titles, please come and join us.

The pool table is reserved for men's games Thursday mornings at 10. Come and join with the others who would like a friendly challenge.

We would like to get a group of adults for adult skating. There is some time available between noon and 1 pm Thursdays. However, there might be more time available if there is enough of an interest. Please call 925-5300 if you are a skater and would like to take part in this exercise group.

The hardanger stitch group will meet Tuesday, Jan. 18 at 7 pm. Beginners are welcome to join us. If you have a project started, come and work with others in the good lighting of the craft room.

Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Eleanor Hatch; 2nd, Mary Reynolds; door, Mary Typhair. Fun bridge ­ Ruth Wenger. Wednesday night bridge ­ Delia Seeley.

Township council challenges other municipalities to match

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal gives $1,000 to Unicef for tsunami relief effort

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Council voted last Tuesday to contribute $1,000 from Edwardsburgh/Cardinal to Unicef for disaster relief for areas of Asia affected by the deadly tsunamis.

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan indicated he believes it would be in the best interests of the township to pledge money towards the relief effort. "There have been municipalities in Southern Ontario which have made donations," said Sloan. "After watching the footage of children losing their parents and families, I think we should do something to try and help those children, maybe make a donation to Unicef."

After the amount of $500 was discussed, Ward One Councillor Hugh Cameron indicated $1,000 would make for a better donation and council could make a challenge to other communities in Eastern Ontario.

"I would suggest that we send this (donation) out as a challenge to the rest of Eastern Ontario to match or better our donation. This is probably the worst disaster the world has ever seen, and we should try to help. We've spent $1,000 on more menial things."

During discussions, Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated she had already made her position on donations to charity coming from money collected from township property taxes.

"It is sad and it was a horrendous event, but our federal government has pledged $80 million and our taxes are part of that already. I personally have donated to the cause, but I don't think our property tax dollars should go towards this. If people want to donate to this cause or another then it's up to them to do so, we shouldn't be using their property tax dollars for that. We might have to look at setting up something in the next budget for things like this if we are going to continue with the donations," Taylor said.

Sloan argued people helping one another in adversity is what people do in troubled times.

"When we had the ice storm, people donated to help us out," said Sloan, "and we would just be doing the same thing for someone else. I just really feel for the kids who are there affected by this."

Council voted 6-1 in favour of making the $1,000 donation.

Upcoming Jr. B Reunion hockey game will bring back plenty of memories

Spencerville, Cardinal teams to square off at Winterfest

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Jr. B stars from the past will get the chance to relive their days in the spotlight with the Reunion hockey game as part of upcoming Spencerville Winterfest activities.

The game, which will feature former members of the Spencerville Bruins and Cardinal Broncos, will face off Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Edwardsburgh Community Centre.

The game will start at 2 pm and run until 4 pm, with former Jr. B players including former NHL player Todd Gill expected to take part.

According to game organizer Joe Scott, the idea came about a year and a half ago, with Scott's former coaching assistant Joe Hopkins helping out.

"Since there was going to be no hockey game at this year's Winterfest I pitched it and they liked the idea," said Scott.

"I just took the ball and ran with it. There will be a lot of the guys back from the '78-79 season when I was coaching and some from before. It's the chance to renew a nice friendly old rivalry, because at that time in the St. Lawrence League there were teams in Spencerville, Cardinal and Prescott, which all evolved into our current South Grenville Jr. B Rangers."

Scott indicated he's ordered jerseys for the two teams and it would be a good chance for the guys to relive some memories.

"We're getting the old team owners, old timekeepers, executives and old coaches," said Scott.

"We're going to introduce everyone and make it a real memory trip. It also gives everyone a chance to get together at the Lions Hall after the game to visit and tell a few stories. It should be fun."

Scott indicated many of the old guys have been excited about getting back on the ice and the likes of Ted McMillan, Brent Scott, Tim Markus, Trevor Gill, Todd Gill, Scotty Allen and Kevin Patrick as well as many others will be there to take part in the good old time hockey game.

Scott hopes the game will become an annual event, possibly having the game played in Cardinal next year.

There is no admission to the game; donations for the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario will be accepted at the door.

See next week's Journal for Winterfest information.

St. John United Church to help relief effort by hosting Loaf and Ladle dinner

CARDINAL - St. John's United Church in Cardinal is holding a Loaf and Ladle night Saturday, Jan. 15 to help raise funds towards tsunami relief.

Members of the church will be serving homemade soups and breads from 4:30 pm until 6 pm, with the admission fee being a donation at the door.

St. John's United Church volunteer Sandra McNairn indicated the event is a fun way to try and raise money for a good cause.

"We've asked a lot of people at the church to make a pot of soup or some homemade bread," said McNairn. "It's part of our community relief effort, where we hope people will come out and enjoy a free meal, while donating what they like."

McNairn indicated no specific dollar amount had been set as a goal, but it would be nice if the event could raise $1,000 for the relief efforts.

"It's a high number, but that's what I would really like to see," said McNairn. "It's going to be a time for fellowship and food and supporting a good cause."

McNairn indicated the event was chosen because it was quick and simple and didn't require weeks of planning, as well as being an event the church has found to be a successful fundraiser in the past.

"We just start at 4:30 pm and go until everyone is fed," explained McNairn. "There is no cost because all the food is donated, and it's always a good idea for a good warm meal on a cold winter's night."

For more information on the dinner or to donate, contact McNairn at 657-4510.

Sloan remains deputy mayor

SPENCERVILLE - Township council decided to stick with Ward Two Councillor Bill Sloan as Edwardsburgh/Cardinal's deputy mayor for 2005.

Former deputy mayor and Ward Three Councillor Marie Thomson nominated Sloan to continue with his second year as the township's deputy mayor. Ward One Councillor Charlie Burrell seconded Sloan's nominatation.

No other councillor put his or her name forward.

Members of council joked this was the easiest race Sloan ever won, while others also teased the councillor that being retired he'll have the most free time.

For Sloan, the job comes with a role he is happy to continue to fill.

"I'm just thankful for the support from everyone," said Sloan. "I look forward to working with everyone again and getting through the challenges."

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal committees named

SPENCERVILLE - Council approved its new committees list for 2005 at last Tuesday's regular council meeting at Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Township Hall.

Members of the planning advisory committee are chair Bill Sloan, Frank Noccey, Charlie Burrell, Sharan Mathieu, Dave Robertson and Doug Cleary.

Members of the committee of adjustment include, Linda Chapeskie, Pamela Somerville and David Sloan.

The fenceviewers committee consists of David Sloan, Jim Burchell and John Wynands.

Members of the North Channel Cemetery board include Barry Brown, Dave Robertson and Sandra Robertson.

Members of the Adams Cemetery board include Ed Donkersteeg, Graham Burchell, Ron Sloan, Carl Baker and Ron Woods.

The administration committee consists of chair Marie Thomson, Charlie Burrell and Peter Martin.

Members of the environmental services/public works committee include chair Charlie Burrell, Bill Sloan and Marie Thomson.

Members of the parks, recreation and facilities committee are chair Frank Noccey, Hugh Cameron, Peter Martin, Roxanne Riddell, Nancy Michalicka and Stephanie Summers.

The Cardinal Community Centre board is made up of Sharan Mathieu, Tom Owers, Ed Riddell, John Robichaud, Lynn Murray, Carolyn Mason, George Mallett, Laura Bradley, Hugh Cameron and Charlie Burrell.

Members of the joint economic development committee are Peter Martin, Frank Noccey, Charlie Burrell, Heather Lawless, Bill Wiseman and Chris Kempffer.

David Sloan was named livestock evaluator for 2005.

Stamp club to meet Jan. 19

CARDINAL - The monthly meeting of the Cardinal Stamp Club will take place next Wednesday, Jan. 19 at the Cardinal branch of the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Public Library.

The meeting will take place at 7 pm. Adults and children welcome to attend.

For more information, contact John Dugan at 657-1081.

Shanliwood Community Church welcomes new pastor

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

SHANLY - A good feeling about the church and its congregation led Jacques Côté and his wife Barbara to Shanliwood Community Church.

"Under the direction of the Lord I came here. I met with the church and fell in love with the people," stated Pastor Côté. He added he first visited the Spencerville-area church two years ago and was impressed by the church's facilities and congregation. He visited the church again this past August in a professional capacity as a church health team consultant, a position which he expects to continue part-time even as he is pastor of Shanliwood.

Côté has been working for the past two years in Montreal, Quebec as the church health team consultant for the Canadian Convention of Southern Baptists. In this role, he assisted pastors in the convention with leadership and assisted them with building strong ministries. Côté, 58, has been in the ministry for over 20 years, although not always as a pastor.

The Côtés returning to the eastern Ontario area represents a homecoming of sorts for both Jacques and Barbara. The first church Jacques ever pastored at was a now-defunct independent full gospel church in Brockville, and Barbara grew up in Carley's Corners, a hamlet close to Merrickville.

Living is a rural community is a first for Jacques, who was born and raised as a Catholic in Montreal. "I have never lived in the country in my life, but I had a desire to come to a rural area," explained Pastor Côté.

Barbara says she is particularly impressed by the facilities offered by Shanliwood. "It's not often a church (in the convention) has this size of property," she explained. She added Shanliwood's large acreage give her and Jacques the opportunity to offer a whole range of activities for all members of the congregation and community. "It's important for me to get to know the community and see what's important to them," she stated.

The Côtés are replacing Allen and Joan Litchfield, who had been at the church since it was started nine years ago.

Pastor Côté and his wife have been at Shanliwood, on-and-off, since November. The first of January was his official start date. He will be officially inaugurated into the church Sunday, Jan. 16.

"The congregation has a natural caring tendency, a real warmth," stated Pastor Côté. "It's most important we walk with God - God will grow the church," he said.

Proceeds from magic show will go to tsunami relief

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - In response to the Asian tsunami disaster, the Rotary Club of Prescott has decided all proceeds from its upcoming Majinx magic show to be held at South Grenville District High School will be pledged to help victims of the disaster.

"On Monday night (Jan. 3), we decided the funds from Majinx will be donated to tsunami relief," stated Rotary President Ray Young. "It's (offering help to tsunami victims) going to be a long-time, ongoing project."

Young added that Rotary of Prescott has already offered $500 from its pre-Christmas ham sale to the Canadian Red Cross, which is offering immediate help to victims of the disaster. However, Young anticipates funds from the magic show will be used to help fund Rotary-based projects in the affected areas. "There are Rotary clubs in that part of the world," he stated. He added Rotary special projects, such as rebuilding schools, are possible in the tsunami-affected areas.

"We hope that, as part of Rotary International, we can help with specific projects in specific villages," said Young. "That's what we hope to do."

Tickets for the Majinx magic show, which involves a family of magicians from the Vankleek Hill area, are available at several Prescott retailers, including Prescott Chiropractic Centre, Money Concepts and Jessup House. The show will take place Friday, Feb. 11 at South Grenville District High School. Two shows will be held: a matinee at 1 pm and an evening show at 7 pm.

100 Years of Rotary

The year 2005 also marks the 100th anniversary of Rotary international. The Rotary Club of Prescott is marking this milestone by undertaking a major community project: a picnic pavilion at the start of the Heritage River Trail near the Sandra S. Lawn Harbour on Prescott's waterfront.

"We have the artist's conception (of the pavilion) and some technical drawings," stated Young. He added Rotary hopes to start construction of the project by this spring.

The pavilion is estimated to cost between $30,000-$40,000.

"It will offer shelter for picnickers, and a rest spot for walkers on the pathway," stated Young.

He added the pavilion is the main community-based goal of the Rotary Club of Prescott for 2005. "It's our major goal, but we're always open to other suggestions (for community projects)," Young stated.

"It's (picnic pavilion) a pretty substantial project for our club," he added. The Rotary Club of Prescott has 25 members.

Council decides to stick with Fulford on RSL board

SPENCERVILLE - The township's representative on the Rideau-St. Lawrence (RSL) Utilities Board of Directors was a hot topic at last Tuesday's regular council meeting in Spencerville.

When approving the new committees lists for 2005, council discussed the choice of Gerry Fulford as township's representative on the RSL board.

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan indicated he wasn't sure if council should change the dates of the term or start looking for another candidate, given Fulford had moved out of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

"He's a great guy," said Sloan, "but I wonder if we should change the term until June or July and then select someone new since he's no longer in the area."

Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated finding someone qualified to sit on the RSL board would be tough, and council would be best sticking with Fulford.

"Gerry said he would be happy to continue with the board," said Taylor, "and he knows the stuff inside and out. He still owns property here, and we don't need to have a township resident on the board."

Ward One Councillor Charlie Burrell added, "(Rideau-St. Lawrence CEO) Jack Walsh has told me he was pleased to see we were looking at leaving Gerry on the board. He would be too tough of a guy to replace."

Council agreed to keep Fulford on the board.

Plowing match meeting to be held in Spencerville

SPENCERVILLE ­ A public meeting to discuss plans for the 2007 International Plowing Match (IPM) will be held next Wednesday, Jan. 19 at the township hall in Spencerville.

The IPM is set for Sept. 2007 in the Rideau Lakes community of Crosby. A Leeds and Grenville committee was the successful bidder for the IPM, a major undertaking expected to bring thousands of people to the region.

An executive committee has been formed; more than 70 sub-committees are to be created, and hundreds of volunteers will be needed.

"This region is well-known for its volunteerism, and it is important that anyone who cares about area gets involved in some way," stated IPM Chair Steve Clark.

The Spencerville meeting will run from 7 to 9 pm, as will a second one set for the following Wednesday at Athens District High School. The public is invited to drop in at any time during the meetings. For more information, call Jan Bonhomme at (613) 272-5396.

Agricultural society to hold AGM

SPENCERVILLE ­ The annual general meeting of the Spencerville Agricultural Society will take place Monday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 pm at the Drummond Building.

The public is invited to attend; suggestions for this year's 150th anniversary of the Spencerville Fair are welcome.

Correction

An article in the Dec. 22 edition incorrectly stated the local VON branch's head office is located at the nurse practitioner site at Towne Centre Plaza in Brockville. The main office is located in Unit 12 at 333 California Ave.

The Journal regrets the error.

Jr. B Rangers keep unbeaten streak alive with 3-0 win

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers kept their unbeaten streak alive with a hard-fought 3-0 victory over the Picton Pirates Saturday in Cardinal.

Both teams had trouble scoring early with South Grenville's Greg Richardson and former Rangers goaltender Devin Payne standing on their heads throughout the game.

Skyler Hoar got the Rangers on the board after he banged in a rebound during a scramble in front of the Picton net with less than four minutes left in the second period. Derek Rupert and Lucas Spencer, in his first game back with the Rangers, added assists.

Alex Rees was able to sneak one past Payne with a shot from outside the circle early in the third period, with Brandon Kelley and Matt Bailey picking up helpers.

Julien Francis would then ice the game for the Rangers when he scored a couple minutes later off a nice feed from Hoar.

Richardson had a strong game in goal stopping numerous shots from the Pirates late in the third period to preserve the victory.

Rangers coach Rod Simmons viewed the game as a chance to get the Rangers back on track after nearly two weeks between games because of cancellations due to poor weather.

"We're trying to get the guys used to one another again," said Simmons. "We used the first period as practice ice for the boys. This was really our first outing after the holidays."

Simmons added, "It was a good effort by the team and we played a good defensive style and got a little bit stronger each period we played. This should be a good building block for when we play Napanee Tuesday."

South Grenville's game scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 7 in Akwesasne was cancelled because of the poor weather conditions and will be made up at a later date.

The Rangers travelled to Napanee last night to take on the Napanee Raiders.

As of Monday, the Rangers sat atop the Rideau Division with a 26-3-3-0 record for 55 points, five points ahead of the second place Brockville Tikis with 50 points. South Grenville has three games in hand.

The Rangers will travel to Winchester Friday to take on the Hawks at 8:15 pm. South Grenville won't play host to any teams this weekend as the league all-star game will be held Saturday in Kemptville. The Valley Vets and Rideau Vets play at 11 am, and the Valley Prospects play the Rideau Prospects at 1:30 pm. Numerous members of the South Grenville Jr. B Rangers are expected to be named to the Rideau Division teams.

SG girls volleyball teams start season undefeated at TISS

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants junior and senior girls teams got off to a hot start to the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association volleyball season posting identical 5-0 records last Thursday in Brockville.

Senior girls coach Ann Drummond indicated the undefeated record was how the Giants wanted to start the season.

"You can't really start much better than that," said Drummond. "They were all pretty close games, but they pulled together and rallied for the wins. Alex Ward is our floor leader and setter and everyone really looked to her for leadership. Shannon Campbell played well at the net, and Sara Watt didn't look like a rookie at all using her quickness in both the front and back court."

The senior girls team scored 25-21, 27-26 and 25-22 wins over the TISS Pirates and 24-14, 24-14 wins over the St. Mary Crusaders, before their games against the North Grenville Knights were postponed due to poor weather.

Juniors post 5-0 record

The junior girls team scored 26-24, 25-18 and 25-14 wins over the TISS Pirates, before adding 25-19, 25-12 victories over the St. Mary Crusaders. Like the seniors, the juniors games against the Knights were postponed.

Both the junior and senior games will be made up at the next two tournaments in the season by playing three games against the Knights instead of their regular two.

Junior coach Christine Sloan indicated their first league games of the season went better than expected.

"They played really amazing," said Sloan. "It was their first game as a full team, and they played well together and got a chance to rotate around and give all the girls a chance to play with one another. Chelsea Roode and Jess McCarroll were our main setters and really took control of the court, but it was really a good team effort."

The senior Giants currently sit in third place in the standings with five points, five points behind the first place TISS Pirates with 10 games in hand, and one point behind Gananoque with two games in hand.

South Grenville's junior girls team is also in third place in the standings with five points, three points behind first place TISS, with 10 games in hand, and two points behind St. Mary with 10 games in hand.

South Grenville will travel to North Grenville Thursday at noon to participate in league games. The Giants will then host league games Jan. 23 in Prescott starting at noon.

Giants defeat TISS in senior boys hoops

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior boys basketball team was able to silence its critics by finally completing a come-from-behind victory.

The Giants scored a 49-45 victory over the TISS Pirates after trailing 32-17 at the half and 41-30 heading into the fourth quarter.

Curtis Bucking led the Giants with 14 points, followed by Ryan Delaney with 11, Matt Alkerton with 10 and Eric Hendriks with six.

Giants coach Jason Crotty indicated the win was a big confidence builder for the team.

"We finally completed a comeback," said Crotty. "The guys really hustled and got the job done. Without Andrew DeDekker (out with a concussion from exhibition play), the guys knew they would have to step up and did that. If there were any doubts we couldn't win LGSSAA this year, I think they've been erased."

Giants centre Hendriks, who cemented the South Grenville victory with a key block in the final seconds, was thrilled with the win.

"I like winning and we were able to do that today," said Hendriks. "We got together and after half starting going really hard. Everyone worked really hard to make up for (the deficit and loss of DeDekker) it."

Juniors fall to Pirates

The junior Giants suffered their first regular season loss of the season 73-41 to the TISS Pirates. The Pirates deep bench was too much for the Giants, as South Grenville played catch-up the entire game after trailing 22-3 in the first quarter. South Grenville's Josh Parsons led all scorers with a 26 point performance, while Cody Haché added six.

For the Giants, the loss came as a bitter pill to swallow; however, they still see plenty of light at the end of the tunnel.

"We started the season at 3-0 and we just got outplayed," said Giants guard Mike Froom. "We just didn't hit any clutch shots or any threes."

Parsons added, "We've been working hard at practice and our positioning has really improved. Our newcomers are really coming along and we're getting better as a whole team."

The juniors also competed in their host Giants Invitational tournament Friday and Saturday in Prescott.

The Giants opened the tournament with a come-from-behind 54-46 win over the Gananoque Trojans. Parsons led all scorers with 21 points, followed by Mike Froom with 18 and Haché and Sebastian Last with four apiece.

In the second game, South Grenville scored a 75-35 victory over Holy Cross to advance to the semi-final.

In the semi-final, the Giants dropped a 58-54 decision to the Carleton Place Bears.

Both Giants travelled to Athens Tuesday to take on the Warriors. South Grenville will travel to Maitland on Thursday at 4:20 pm to take on the Grenville Christian College Lions.

On Friday and Saturday, South Grenville will host a two-day senior boys basketball tournament.

The junior boys basketball team will travel to Cornwall Friday and Saturday to compete in a two-day tournament.

Payne's rink falls short in Ontario final

PETERBOROUGH - The Prescott-based junior girls curling rink fell just short of returning to the Canadian Junior Championships after falling in the final of the Ontario Junior Women's Championships Saturday in Peterborough.

The Prescott-based rink skipped by Laura Payne played strong throughout the tournament posting a 5-1 record to tie for top spot in the round-robin.

In the final, Payne's rink fell victim to arch-rival Erin Morrissey of the Rideau Curling Club 7-6, who they had beaten earlier in the tournament. The game was very closely contested, with Morrissey winning when she threw a control weight hit to score two points on her final shot for the victory.

In the round-robin, Payne's rink defeated the likes of Hollie Nichol's Sarnia Golf and Country Club rink 6-4, Lisa Farnell's Peterborough Country Club rink 10-2, Leslie Bishop's Weston Golf and Country Club rink, Nicki Wilson's North Halton Golf and Country Club rink, and Morrissey 9-5 before dropping a 6-4 decision to Leslie McCormack's North Halton rink.

Payne's rink has been on a roll this season sitting in top spot of the Ontario Junior Women's Curling Tour standings with 85 points, 21 points ahead of Rachel Homan's second place rink with 64 points.

Members of the Prescott-based rink include skip Payne, vice Lauren Mann, second Megan Aldridge and lead Candace Johnston. Their coach is Brian Savill.

Novice B Rangers victorious at Kanata hockey tournament

KANATA - The South Grenville novice B Rangers travelled
to Kanata Jan. 2 and captured the Kanata Minor Hockey Association Novice B Holiday Classic championship.

The Rangers posted a 5-0 record in the tournament including three shutouts for South Grenville keeper David Armstrong.

In their opener, the Rangers scored a win over
the Cumberland Hounds. Zachary Shankar was named the game's MVP for his offensive play.

In its second game, South Grenville defeated the Kanata Komodo Dragons. Tayler Mason was named the game's MVP with a strong defensive showing.

In their third game,
the Rangers scored a win
over the Kanata B2 Bombers. Curtis Ross was the game's MVP for his play on the blueline.

In the semi-final, South Grenville scored a win over the Arnprior Blues to advance to the finals. Aaron White was named the game's MVP for his strong defensive play.

In the final, South Grenville scored a win over the Cumberland Black Knights.

Tournament scores and goal scorers were not available as of press time.

The Rangers travelled to Clayton, New York, Dec. 28, and scored a 12-1 victory in exhibition play. Tom Kippax was named the game's MVP.

John Lawless scored
five goals to lead the Rangers, while Shankar scored four, Cameron Smith scored two and Tyson Kirkby added a single. Kirkby (4), Tom Kippax (3), Paige Dorey (3), Payden Selleck and Curtis Ross added assists.

On Jan. 8, the Rangers scored a 2-0 victory over the Brockville Jr. Braves. Armstrong had
the Rangers shutout, while Shankar scored both South Grenville goals. Kirkby added an assist.

On Jan. 9, South Grenville scored a 5-2 victory over the South Dundas Demons. Lawless led all scorers with a pair of goals, followed by Kirkby, Kippax and Cameron Smith with singles. Kirkby added an assist.

Bantam house league Rangers capture host tournament title

SPENCERVILLE - The South Grenville bantam B house league Rangers captured their host tournament Saturday in Spencerville.

The Rangers opened the tournament with a 0-0 draw with the Kemptville Panthers, which required a shootout to decide the winner. Reilly Grootjans scored in the shootout to clinch the Rangers' victory. Ashton Selleck had the shutout for South Grenville.

In the semi-final, the Rangers scored a 5-1 win over Brockville Eastern Engineering. Nick Perry had a pair of goals to lead South Grenville, while Josh Perrin, Taylor Corney and Grootjans added assists. Michael Thomas, Perry, Tyler Curry and Fletcher Wehmeyer added assists.

In the final, the Rangers managed to outlast the Athens Aeros to score a 4-3 victory to capture the tournament title. Curry scored with 3:08 left in the third period to ice the victory. Trevor Murray, Chris Rice and Perrin scored the other Rangers' goals. Ryan Robinson (2), Perrin and Thomas added assists. Andrew Davidson played clutch down the stretch in preserving the South Grenville victory.

On Jan. 9, the Rangers travelled to Smiths Falls and scored a 5-3 regular season victory over
the Smiths Falls Bears. Todd Kirkey had a pair of goals to lead the Rangers, while Curry, Perrin and Wehmeyer also scored. Murray (2), Robinson, Kirkey, Perrin and Rice chipped in with helpers.

Major atom Kings defeat Seaway Valley

MAXVILLE - The Rideau-St. Lawrence major atom Kings continued their strong play this season with a 1-0 shutout over the Seaway Valley Rapids in Maxville.

Payton Marriner scored the Kings' lone goal, while Taylor Henry and Warren Steele added assists.

The Kings' currently sit in fourth place in the Ottawa District Minor Hockey Association AA major atom division with 25 points, one point behind the Cumberland Barons.

The Kings next home game will be tonight (Wednesday, Jan. 12) at 8 pm at the Spencerville arena.

Teams needed for Randy Kroone Mixed Sno-Pitch tournament

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Kinsmen club will be running the 11th annual Randy Kroone Memorial Mixed Sno-Pitch Tournament Saturday, Feb. 12.

Each team must have a minimum of four females.

The event is being run in conjunction with Prescott's Frost Festival and is being held at the Kriska (old RCA) ball diamonds.

All proceeds from the tournament will be donated to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario.

To enter a team or for more information, contact Art Hitsman at 925-1315, 213-1136 or (613) 734-8486 or e-mail artg.hitsman@canadapost.ca.

Kinsmen club offering pick-up hockey games for adult players

PRESCOTT- The Kinsmen club of Prescott is inviting adult hockey players to come out to play semi-competitive pick-up hockey.

The club has ice time every Sunday from 11 am until noon and welcomes any players over the age of 18 to play semi-competitive gentle players hockey. Players are asked to meet in the dressing rooms 1 or 4 at the Leo Boivin Community Centre at 10:30 am.

For more information, contact Art Hitsman at 925-1315, 213-1136, (613) 734-8486 or e-mail artg.hitsman@canadapost.ca.

Cardinal Hot Stuff mixed dart tournament set for Jan. 29

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Mixed Dart League is preparing to host its Hot Stuff Dart Tournament at the end of the month.

The tournament is scheduled for Jan. 29, with registration beginning at noon and games starting at 1 pm. There is an entry fee. The event is slated to be a fun event, which is involving local volunteer firefighters.

The dart league is looking for 20 teams, consisting of two women and one man, with a draw for the fourth member of the team from a pool of firefighters.

For more information or to pre-register a team, call Jeanne at 657-4558.

PDSA hosting annual general meeting Jan. 19 at the fire hall

PRESCOTT - The Prescott and District Soccer Association (PDSA) will be hosting its annual general meeting Wednesday, Jan. 19 at the Prescott Fire Hall.

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 7 pm, with the PDSA looking for volunteers to help out with the 2005 season.

Lacrosse Association registration scheduled for Saturday morning

BROCKVILLE - The Brockville Lacrosse Association, which is open to children from South Grenville, will be holding its early registration period Saturday, Jan. 15 at the Brockville Youth Arena.

The session will run from 9 am until noon with early bird draw prizes available. Copies of your child's birth certificate and health card numbers are required.

For more information on the association or its registration session, call 345-0853 or visit www.brockvillelacrosse.com.

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