VOL. 175, NO. 4~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ January 26, 2005

Protest coming to area

Rural landowners plan to close international bridge, Highway 401

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

JOHNSTOWN - To protest the over-regulation of private land and the effects of these regulations on farmers and landowners, the Leeds and Grenville Landowners Association is planning to hold a protest Friday, Feb. 4 at the Johnstown exit of the 401 and at the international bridge.

The association has not yet decided which form its protest will take, but Gill Cyr of the association stated he anticipates it will be similar to a protest held last Friday in Ingersoll.

This protest, which Cyr attended, involved members of several landowners and farmers groups blocking the east-and westbound lanes of Highway 401 with a slow-moving convoy of tractors and farm equipment for several hours.

The association is still organizing the details of its protest. It is holding a rally today at 7:30 pm at the Roebuck Community Hall. Cyr says this meeting will give members of the association a further chance to arrange its protest. As well, the rally will feature Randy Hillier of the Lanark Landowners Association who helped to organize the Ingersoll protest and is also helping to arrange the action in Johnstown.

This protest was originally scheduled to take place on the highway this Friday, Jan. 28. However, the Leeds and Grenville Landowners Association is going to be joined by members of the "Stop the Destruction Convoy" of tractors which will be leaving Tillsonburg in southern Ontario Feb. 1 and arrive for the Prescott-area demonstration Feb. 4.

This convoy is travelling on the former Highway 2 from downtown Toronto to eastern Ontario.

The exact time and duration of the Feb. 4 protest has not yet been determined.

Cyr also said he hopes members of the OPP will meet with the association before Wednesday so it knows which measures the police will be taking during the protest. "It's (police involvement) going to be negotiated before Wednesday, we hope," he stated. "The same thing (re-routing traffic around the protest) has to happen here as it did in Ingersoll."

The organization is protesting what it regards to be the over-regulation of private landowners in Ontario. Problems with property assessment, Department of Fisheries and Oceans regulations, and the Ministry of Natural Resources' alleged mismanagement of wildlife are all issues which the association has highlighted as problems.

According to Cyr, these issues have built up until they have created an intolerable situation for farmers and rural landowners. "All these concerns have built up over the last 30 years," he stated. "The legislation is choking almost everyone. We're just looking to 'let us live'."

By undertaking a protest of this sort, Cyr said the association hopes to get their message across to higher-level government officials. "One thing I don't want to hear from the public is for us to negotiate," said Cyr. "We have been negotiating for the last 40 years."

In addition, Cyr stressed the association is only undertaking the protests as a last resort. "We don't enjoy doing this," emphasized Cyr. "Our backs are against the wall. I hope to hell this one (protest) in Prescott doesn't happen."

He added the association knows it may face apathy and anger from people affected by the demonstration. "If we inconvenience people, I feel for them, I really do," stated Cyr. "The association does know there will be lots of angry people (held up by the protests)."

In particular, Cyr said he feels for truck drivers who earn their livelihood by using the 401. "We're taking money out of their pockets. I certainly sympathize."

He expects that, as with the Ingersoll protest on Friday, emergency and police vehicles will be able to access the blocked portions of the 401 in case of emergency.

By holding such a large-scale protest, says Cyr, the association hopes it will get the attention of the provincial government and will help to change some of the regulations it views as excessive. "We want to meet with the people responsible for making laws, right up to the premier," he stated.

Cyr also stresses the Leeds and Grenville Landowners association, which has more than 200 members, does not believe in violence or confrontation to get its point across. "We're not here to swear at people or break windows," he stated.

Water St. condominium plan unveiled

Sixty-five units proposed for Blue Fence property

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ A proposed 65-unit condominium development on Water Street would enhance downtown Prescott, according to backers of the project.

Plans for the "Mariner's Club" development on the vacant Blue Fence property were unveiled at a town planning committee meeting Monday night.

The six-storey structure, planned for the space between the amphitheatre and the Moran Hooker building is being billed as "Luxury Living on the Water's Edge." One of the main backers of the project is Prescott Councillor Bob Pelda, who also co-owns Wiser Hall and Mayfield Retirement Residence.

The development team behind the proposal has put three years into the concept and is confident the project will enhance the downtown and waterfront areas and be a good fit with existing architecture in the neighbourhood.

The building will be "top notch from top to bottom," according to Ingo Ruttenberg, whose background is in business and marketing. Ruttenberg, who moved to Prescott from Ottawa two years ago, referred to the town as a gem. The condo project will create jobs, bring people to town and help support the rate base, he noted.

"It will be the crown jewel along this waterway," Ruttenberg said.

The units range in size from about 900 to 1,400 square feet. Purchase prices listed in a promotional package range from $166,000 to $260,000. Condo fees average about $200 per month.

Ruttenberg said the new housing units could lead to between 60 and 120 new professionals coming to Prescott. Their average household income would be between $55,000 and $150,000 per year. The backers believe there is a market for the type of upscale housing being proposed.

As for revenue for the community, construction would lead to more than $3 million in spending and create 67 local jobs.

Based on preliminary estimates, proponents say the additional property tax revenue generated by the condos would enable the town to see a return on the project in the first year.

Jim French, the previous owner of the property, had put forward and received approval for a proposal for an 18-unit townhouse development. Mariner's Club proponents stated they do not believe the previous proposal was the way to go.

Architect Mark Brandt insisted the proposed building is "harmonious" when it comes to fitting in with heritage properties located in the neighbourhood. As for the present, Brandt said the project is in line with Prescott's official plan.

However, he and the other backers acknowledged there are some areas in which the proposal does not fall within existing zoning bylaw provisions. These areas include setbacks, lot coverage and maximum density for multi-residential units.

Brandt said the concessions being sought by the proponents are far outweighed by the positive effects the development would have on the town. "This proposal is such a step forward," he remarked.

Ruttenberg agreed, noting the concept is "...not something done up in a hurry simply to make a buck." He said he would not be associated with any project that would harm the town in any way.

Although it was noted the drawings can be revised and the number of units might be reduced slightly, Brandt indicated the building would have to be six storeys tall to be financially viable for investors.

Councillor and planning committee chairman Chuck Street said town officials would review the proposal. "It looks like it could be something very exciting for Prescott," he added.

The next planning committee meeting is scheduled for Feb. 14.

Most audience members (about 25 in all) appeared to be quite receptive to the proposal. Business man and former Prescott mayor Tom Doyle gave the presentation high marks. "I think it's a great project," he said.

Doyle said the development is aesthetically pleasing and is desperately needed by the town to get people downtown. He believes most residents will accept the proposal.

Proposed zoning amendments would be subject to a public meeting prior to a council vote.

Construction would likely take just under a year and a half to complete. If all the necessary approvals could be obtained later this year, the building could be occupied by the spring of 2007.

In addition to the proposed building on the Blue Fence property, proponents presented drawings of nearby public space areas. These included most of the vacant Daniels' Hotel lot being converted to a park with a fountain. About 10 parking spaces would be created on the Water Street side of the lot.

The Daniels' lot is not owned by the municipality. A small park has been established on the north side of the property facing King Street.

There would also be a walking trail extending from the top of the hill down to the river's edge at the south end of the existing municipal parking lot.

The lot would be retained for parking, although some landscaping would take place.

THIS WEEK

New crosswalk signals receive green light for takeoff Thursday

PRESCOTT ­ Traffic lights at two crosswalks on Edward Street are to be activated this Thursday morning.

The new sets of lights have been installed at Victor Road (across from South Grenville District High School) and at Park Street (near St. Mark School).

Pedestrians can use push buttons located on both sides of each crosswalk to activate the lights and cross Edward Street safely. Motorists are reminded to obey the signals and yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the street.

For more information on the crosswalks and fines associated with not using them properly, see the OPP "On the Beat" column in this week's Journal.

Agricultural society AGM set for Monday

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Spencerville Agricultural Society will conduct its annual general meeting Monday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 pm in the Drummond Building.

All are welcome to attend. The society is organizing the 150th edition of the Spencerville Fair, which will be held this September.

Sheila Bush is completing her term as president of the society. Bush will be succeeded by Dennis Colautti.

Church serves dinner for community today

PRESCOTT ­ A Master's Hands community supper will be held today (Wednesday) at Seaway Christian Church on Churchill Road.

The dinner for the less fortunate will be served from 5 to 6:15 pm. Admission is free; all are invited to attend.

Buy tulips and support the lung association

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ The Lung Association's Tulip Day campaign is now under way.

Proceeds from the eighth annual campaign will be used to assist those who are afflicted with serious lung diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. One in five Ontarians suffers from a breathing difficulty, according to the association.

Orders should be placed no later than Feb. 8. The flowers are to be delivered Tuesday, Feb. 22.

Each person who purchases a bunch of tulips will receive an entry slip for an online random-draw contest to win two economy-class tickets to anywhere Northwest/KLM flies in North America.

For more information or to place an order, call 1-866-534-5514. The association's Web site address is www.on.lung.ca.

Augusta deputy reeve resigns

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - Augusta Deputy Reeve Doug Barton, who has been involved with council for the past seven years, has resigned.

Reeve John McCrea was informed of Barton's resignation Tuesday, Jan. 18 shortly after Barton delivered his letter of resignation to the township office at Maynard. At that time, no reason was given for Barton's resignation.

However, during Monday's regular meeting of council, The Journal was given a letter from Barton which indicated his reasons for resigning. "Currently, I do not feel council is functioning within the parameters of the legislation and decisions are not being made in the best interest of the township as a whole. I believe that council's decisions are not always being made based on a solid factual basis, but rather are being influenced by outside input, or decisions are simply not being made," the letter stated.

According to Barton, the contents of this letter had not been given to council prior to being made available to The Journal .

When contacted Monday night and notified about the contents of the letter, Reeve McCrea said he would not comment until he could see the letter in writing.

Barton's letter also stated he has "always been prepared to work within a council that is committed to making decisions based on fact and a genuine commitment to the township and people. I do not see this happening at this time..."

With Barton's resignation, council now must deal with the business of filling the vacant council post. Augusta CAO Sharon Wilkinson detailed several options which the council has to fill the vacant seat. She mentioned there could either be an election called to fill the vacant seat, or council could appoint someone to the post.

Wilkinson also mentioned council is not certain whether or not it will appoint someone as deputy reeve, or appoint a councillor and move up an existing councillor to the deputy reeve seat. Council is expected to discuss this at the next council meeting on Feb. 14.

Because holding an election is considered cost- and time-intensive, Wilkinson recommended council appoint someone rather than having an election.

Reeve McCrea mentioned any discussions about prospective new council members should be held in-camera, so potential candidates don't hear about their being considered. Councillor John Fischl agreed, saying "We don't have any choice. We have to hold the meetings (talking about prospective new council members) in-camera."

Council has 60 days from Jan. 24 to appoint someone new. Councillor Garry Ferguson mentioned "it shouldn't take that long."

In regards to appointing a new member of council, Wilkinson explained council has several options, including soliciting resumes from township residents. She mentioned anyone over 18 who is both a Canadian citizen, a township resident or a township property owner, or the spouse of a township resident or property owner is eligible by law to be a councillor.

When deputy reeve Morris Stark stepped down in 2001, Barton (a councillor at the time) was appointed deputy reeve. Bill Buckler, who came in fourth in the 2000 municipal election, was appointed as councillor to replace. Augusta has three councillor positions.

In the 2003 Augusta election, Carol Stephenson came in fourth.

Volunteers enable historical society to keep living in the past

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - In spite of a few challenges in this past year, the Grenville County Historical Society had a good year, according to Secretary Valerie Schulz.

At the society's annual general meeting held last Wednesday evening at Crane House on Edward Street in Prescott, Treasurer Sandra Robertson revealed the historical society's revenue for 2004 was "down a little" from 2003.

However, the society posted a small surplus for 2004. A chief reason for the surplus was the society got a federal grant from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada which allowed it to fund its summer student, which is necessary for the society to complete its research in the summers.

"Summer is our busy time. We have a lot of walk-in traffic," explained Schulz.

The society did not get its grant in 2003, which resulted in it hiring its summer student for a shorter time period. Bonnie Gaylord of the society's research committee also stated at the meeting there is much more competition for these grants, so the society may not get one each year it applies.

A challenge for the society in 2004 was that their flagship event, the house tour held Sept. 25, had much lower attendance than in previous years.

"Our numbers were way down," explained Schulz. "We're not sure why we didn't get more people, because people enjoy it," she stated. "We'll have to get the word out more in 2005."

The society has several special events planned for 2005. Schulz stated the organization is planning to hold a spirit walk at the North Channel Cemetery in Johnstown.

The society held one in May 2004 at the Blue Church cemetery which coincided with the Doors Open Brockville-1000 Islands event put on by the Ontario Heritage Foundation.

Another event which the society hopes to repeat is its walking tour of Prescott, which it last did in 2003 in conjunction with the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival. The walking tour involved historical society members and volunteers taking people on a tour of historical homes in Prescott. The owners of the homes would re-enact a past time in the dwelling's existence.

Grenville County Historical Society President Sandra Shouldice agreed 2004 was a good year for the society, and was quick to thank the many volunteers who help the society complete its activities.

"What brings volunteers back is the sense of satisfaction they get from helping people," she opined.

Fort Town Frost Festival coming back in February

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The 2005 Fort Town Frost Festival is starting to take shape.

Councillor Sue O'Hanlon is the new lead organizer of Prescott's version of a winter carnival, which is set for the weekend of Feb. 12-13.

Long-time Frost Festival organizer Mike Boyles was unable to continue in that role due to poor health. O'Hanlon said she has been in constant contact with Boyles to seek information or advice on how to maintain the festival. "It's a lot of work, but he did it faithfully every year," she noted.

"In a way, it's almost being done in honour of him."

Many of the regular events and activities will return to this year's festival, including sled dogs races at the golf club, a sno-pitch ball tournament and snowman-building contest, a breakfast and dance at the Prescott Legion and horse-drawn wagon rides downtown.

A new event in the works is motorcycle drag races on the ice at Elevator Bay in Johnstown, which will take place on Saturday afternoon (Feb. 12). O'Hanlon said the races would not take place away from the area used by ice fishermen.

The Rotary Club of Prescott's presentation of Majinx will take place Friday, Feb. 11.

Several other activities and events will be listed in the festival schedule. See upcoming editions of The Journal for more details.

O'Hanlon recalls taking part in the 2003 Frost Festival shortly after moving to Prescott. She would like to see additional low-cost events for the whole family. A hockey game of local interest and a fireworks display are things to consider for next year, she added.

For more information on the Frost Festival or to find out how to get involved in an event, contact O'Hanlon at 925-1595.

Cemetery turned over to township

MAYNARD - Carpenter's Cemetery has become the responsibility of the Augusta Township.

Augusta CAO Sharon Wilkinson received a letter from June Pattenden of Brockville Jan. 11 indicating the committee which has been managing the cemetery on the fifth concession had been told from the Ministry of Consumer and Business Services Cemeteries Regulation Unit that the monies which the committee has for upkeep of the cemetery has been improperly invested. The committee was also told by the ministry it should turn the cemetery over to the township.

The committee has over $4,000 in a bank account and an additional $1,700 in a GIC which it will turn over to the township.

"We don't have a choice. We have to take over the cemetery," Wilkinson told council Monday. She added the cemetery is classified as being inactive; no new burial plots in the cemetery can be sold.

However, she also stated the township is obligated to honour the interment rights of people who own burial plots in the cemetery.

Annual church fundraiser is a berry good concept

MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton

St. James Anglican Church in Maitland is having its 13th annual Berry Sale to raise funds for special projects for the church.

This year, the sale features blueberries, raspberries and cranberries as well as three cookbooks that have recipes using the different types of berries. Pat Allport, one of the organizers of the fundraiser, says the sale continues to be very popular because berries are an excellent source of the anti-oxidents that many people are trying to add to their diets.

The cookbooks give recipes with lots of ways to use these healthful fruits. All orders must be placed by Feb. 21. Call Lil Smith at 925-3793 or Pat Allport at 348-3657 if you would like to place an order.

Outdoor skating

The outdoor skating rink at the MERC Hall has had sporadic use this season because of the unsettled weather this winter.

John Wilson, who has looked after flooding the rink this season, says there were several days over the Christmas season that saw lots of skating at the rink, but the mild weather and alternating snow and rain have made it difficult to maintain the entire rink as a smooth ice surface.

This year, because of wet weather late in the fall, there has been lots of water at the rink ­ unlike last year, when water had to be brought up from the river to flood the rink.

Wilson and his helpers Mike Lortie, Andrew Wilson and Matt Cockshott have shared the flooding and snowblowing duties, and Wilson says there has been a consistent area for skating on the east end of the rink and the lights have been on for evening skating.

The maintenance of the rink has been a struggle for the volunteers. Cold, clear weather would help the conditions immensely.

Snowmobilers hit the trails for Easter Seal Society

NORTH GRENVILLE ­ The Leeds and Grenville Snowarama for Easter Seal Kids will take place Sunday, Feb. 6 at the Kemptville Snowmobile Klub.

Participants in the annual fundraiser will ride groomed OFSC trails, have some fun and raise money for the Easter Seal Society, which assists children with physical disabilities.

The day will include a breakfast and an awards dinner at the Royal Canadian Legion in Kemptville.

To register for the event, get tickets for the dinner or for more information on Snowarama, call 342-7110 or visit www.easterseals.org.v

Needs of local business community focus of meeting Thurdsay night

Findings of business retention and expansion interviews to be discussed in Johnstown

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

SOUTH GRENVILLE - The findings of a joint business retention and expansion study undertaken by Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, the Town of Prescott, Augusta, Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation (GCFDC) and the South Grenville Economic Development Committee will be presented this Thursday (Jan. 27) at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre.

"We're going to have a presentation of the survey results," stated Edwardsburgh/Cardinal CAO Stephen McDonald. "We surveyed 90 businesses in the South Grenville area."

According to McDonald, the study was undertaken because the South Grenville area is one of the only areas in Leeds-Grenville which doesn't have a business retention and expansion plan. "They (employees of the study) talked to people here and found out any obstacles (for businesses) in expanding and locating here." The study was initiated by the South Grenville Economic Development Committee.

McDonald added that Project Co-ordinator Jason Baker will be on hand at the meeting to go over the survey results. At the public meeting which starts at 7 pm, there will also be an opportunity for the public to learn the results of the survey. According to McDonald, there will also be a "pass forward" of recommendations to the participating councils to indicate areas of the study for them to act on.

The study took place in summer 2004. In addition to employing Baker as its co-ordinator, it also employed Debbie Findlay who helped input the survey data. The study was funded by GCFDC and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) under its Job Creation Partnership program. As well, the municipal partners in the study also provided funds and in-kind resources (use of office equipment and computers) to the study.

The results of the study, says McDonald, will provide insight on some of the challenges faced by business in the South Grenville area. "There's nothing in the study that lots of people don't suspect are challenges (for South Grenville businesses)," McDonald stated.

One of the areas which the study showcases is challenges which area businesses are facing in regards to attracting and locating qualified staff for their businesses. "(The study determined) there is some difficulty in finding people for skilled positions," said McDonald.

He added one of the planned actions to be put forth at the meeting is for councils to work with local institutions (like St. Lawrence College in Brockville) and GCFDC to help point businesses in the right direction when it comes to locating and training employees for positions.

Members of the public as well as business owners are encouraged to attend the meeting.

McDonald added that, from his perspective, the study was a very important undertaking. "Business and industry is the backbone of the South Grenville economy because of tax money and employment," he said. "It will help us make sure we will have the best business climate for existing business and for attracting new business, too."

Chamber of Commerce continues to represent business community

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

JOHNSTOWN ­ Lisa Smith is the new president of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce.

The owner of House of Flowers was elected to the post at the Chamber's annual general meeting held Thursday afternoon at Bridgeview Restaurant.

Smith served as vice-president last year; she succeeds Keeley Mouré, who will serve as past-president. Ralph Legere will serve as vice-president in 2005. Traditionally, the person who serves as vice-president will be president the following year.

Allan Norton, who returned to the role of treasurer late last year, remains in that position for another year. Debbie Lawless remains the Chamber's secretary.

Smith said she is looking forward to the year ahead. She is encouraged by the town's downtown revitalization plan and official plan review now under way, as well as the new residential subdivision in the works in the northeast section of Prescott.

Mouré said she did a lot of learning as president, adding it was a great experience.

"We should be very proud of what our Chamber has accomplished," Mouré stated.

Elected to the position of director for 2005 were Robert Lawn, Lewis Beach, Bill Pakeman, Ken Durand, Heather Lawless, Wilfred Peters, Sharon Spychi, Tom Doyle, Ken Rundle, Garry Dewar, Jim French, Adrian vanSchie, Anne Sawyer, Ray Young, Mike Baril, Brent Laton, Chris O'Reilly and Brenda Kenney.

A Chamber committee will consider what should be done about the vacant position of executive director. Mike Boyles had held the post for many years, but he resigned in December for health reasons.

In addition to reviewing its standing committees and bylaws in 2005, the board of directors is expected to deal with issues involving the distribution of money from its community fund. The Chamber has contributed more than $6,000 to South Grenville signage now in place on highways 401 and 416; the business organization was also a corporate sponsor of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.

The Chamber is starting the year with a balance of about $25,000, some of which is in the fund for community projects which could benefit the business sector. The business organization has rebounded from having little in the way of money four to five years ago.

The Chamber has about 140 members.

Volunteer mentors can make a Big difference for children

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The Leeds and Grenville branch of Big Brothers/Big Sisters is seeking volunteers to serve as mentors for children in grades 3-5.

Participants 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 on in-school mentoring, call Susan at 345-0281.

Animal control officer resigns

MAYNARD - At Monday's regular meeting of Augusta council, it was announced that Darcy Alkerton, who has been the township's animal control officer since 2001, has resigned.

In a letter, Alkerton indicated his reason for resigning was because his contract with the township was not negotiated in a timely fashion.

Augusta Township Reeve John McCrea acknowledged perhaps Alkerton's contract could have been negotiated in a more timely fashion.

"It's a shame to lose one of the premier animal control officers around," the reeve said.

Council mentioned it will start advertising for a new animal control officer soon. In the interim, the township's bylaw enforcement officer, Marty Lowson, will act as the animal control officer.

Lowson mentioned he already has the necessary equipment (catching pole, dog biscuits) to fill in as the temporary bylaw control officer. He has also been in contact with the OSPCA and has obtained the combination of the facility's door.

Annual awards honour local businesses, volunteers

PRESCOTT ­ Nominations are now being accepted for annual awards to be presented at the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce banquet to be held in March.

In addition to the community service and business achievement awards, there is also the Connie Dickey Youth Award and the newly-created Michael Boyles Business Expansion or Improvement Award. The Chamber is encouraging nominations from service clubs and community organizations.

Send nominations by Feb. 8 to the awards committee c/o Box 2000, Prescott, or for more information call Ken Durand at 925-0145 or Keeley Mouré at 345-3905. The awards banquet will be held Monday, March 7 at the Prescott Golf Club.

Former rivals gather as Cardinal, Spencerville play reunion game

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - The first Spencerville Bruins-Cardinal Broncos Jr. B Reunion Hockey Game was a big hit as fans filled the stands of the Edwardsburgh Community Centre to relive a friendly old rivalry.

While the Bruins defeated the Broncos 12-4 in the game capturing this year's bragging rights, everyone involved considered the big winners of the day to be the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, which will receive more than $1,000 collected in donations at the door.

"It's such a great thing to support," said former Bruins coach Joe Hopkins. "You never know when someone you know is going to need help and they are so great at the hospital with helping out the children this was where we wanted the money to go. We're really proud to have collected this much for the cause."

The players viewed the game as not only a chance to relive old glories, but also pay tribute to a lot of the people who donated their time to help get the teams off the ground.

"I was fortunate to play junior hockey for six years," said Paul Hopkins, "and the amount of work done by people for both teams is just extraordinary. There are a lot of people behind the scenes that never had their names mentioned, but did a lot for these teams back then. Joe Scott is one of those guys who has done a pile of work."

Paul added the event was fun for him, getting to relive memories from their 1982-83 championship hockey team and all the experiences which should have split up the team.

"This is just a special thing for all of us and all the people who were involved with these two teams," he said. "This game is a start, but really I don't know how to begin to thank all the people who gave their time 22-23 years ago so a bunch of kids could play hockey."

The game was also a chance for the children of the players to see their fathers hit the ice for the first time.

"We've been talking about it at home for a bit," said Curtis Patrick, whose father Rick played in the game for Cardinal. "I've never seen him play full contact and I was waiting to see if he got laid out. I like to tease him about that."

Rick Patrick added, "This was the first time in about 15 years I've put on the full equipment. It was fun; it really made me feel like I was quite a bit younger for a couple hours. It was a good time and we got to see everybody again and getting all the guys back together again."

Cycling study moves ahead

MAYNARD - Augusta council passed a resolution to accept a proposal from engineering firm Marshall, Macklin and Monaghan of Thornhill, Ontario to complete a cycling study in the township.

This study is to be done in partnership with Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal and the Town of Prescott. It is a study to determine the feasibility of developing a cycling path along the former Highway 2 in the townships involved. It will also evaluate the impact of cycling tourism in the area.

Augusta township CAO Sharon Wilkinson said Augusta had requested proposals from three different firms to obtain estimates for the study. Of the firms contacted, Marshall, Macklin and Monaghan was the only one to return an estimate.

The $10,000 study will be funded by the Eastern Ontario Development Fund.

Wilkinson expects the company will begin the study shortly.

Walker House is for all adults to enjoy

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Walker House is not just for seniors.

That was one of the messages to come out of the adult recreation centre's annual general meeting Friday.

Walker House, located at the corner of King and Mary streets just west of Prescott Health Centre, is owned by the municipality and run by a volunteer board of directors.

Membership in 2004 was 184, just shy of the target of 200. As of Friday, 104 people had signed up for 2005. Walker House officials are encouraged by the fact so many people have signed up this early in the year.

Vivienne Cudlipp, who begins her second year as chairperson of the Walker House board, said she has enjoyed her time at the centre. Many people in the community are still not aware the facility is for all adults, not just senior citizens.

"We need to encourage new, younger people to come along," said Cudlipp, who referred to Walker House as "a very important part of Prescott."

Although there are fewer people taking part in the exercise group and some evening card nights have been shelved for the winter, the facility continues to host everything from coffee mornings and quilting sessions to weaving and Scrabble classes. Walker House also hosts breakfasts, lunches and dinners, provides guest speakers and rents the facility for parties and other gatherings for clubs and organizations.

"There is very little time when the House is quiet," Cudlipp remarked.

Prescott Councillor Chuck Street, the town's representative on the board, noted the recreation centre reaches out and gets involved in community events and activities. Walker House members took part in the Terry Fox Run and the Bottom Line Challenge for the Food For All Food Bank.

"It certainly improves the quality of life for all ages," Street said.

The two-storey structure Walker House calls home is owned by the municipality. "I believe that the building is a great asset to the town," property committee chair Charlie Steiner said.

In terms of finances, Walker House has investments totalling in excess of $20,000. One thing expected to be addressed this year is the heating system which needs to be repaired or replaced.

Plans are in the works this year to have one or two computers with Internet access available for use by Walker House members.

For more information on Walker House, call 925-5300.

Afternoon and evening magic shows will be presented at high school Feb. 11

PRESCOTT - Tickets for the Majinx magic show are still available.

The show, which will be presented Friday, Feb. 11 at South Grenville District High School, will involve "Canadian champions of magic" Majinx, a family of magicians (a mother, father and two children) who have performed all across Canada at high-profile venues. The show is unique not only because it comprises a family but also because it draws heavily on audience participation.

There will be two shows Feb. 11. The first one will happen at 1 pm; which will feature slightly fewer illusions than the evening show. This show will also feature a lower admission price and a special admission rate for students.

The evening show will take place at 7 pm; it features the Majinx full-length "championship" show with highly acclaimed illusions. The evening show also provides the option of a volume discount for tickets bought in lots of four.

For both shows, children three and under are admitted free. The Rotary Club has also allotted one ticket per class for all feeder elementary (public and catholic) schools in South Grenville as a "prize" for a deserving student.

Funds generated from the show are to be allocated to tsunami relief and to the Rotary Park Pavilion, which the Rotary Club is planning to build in the spring near the Heritage River Trail entrance in Prescott.

Tickets are available at several area locations, including Jessup House, the Family Dollar Store and South Grenville District High School.

OPP ­ TOWNSHIPS NEWS

Nothing taken from home or shed

EDWARDSBURGH ­ A break-in at a home on Mainsville Road between Brouseville Road and Byers Road is being investigated by Constable Pergunas. The incident took place Jan. 20 between 11:30 am and 10:30 pm. The front door of the residence had been kicked in; however, nothing appeared to have been taken from the home. There was also evidence someone had entered shed at the back of the property, but nothing appeared to be missing.

Anyone with information on this occurrence is asked to contact the constable at the detachment in Prescott (925-4221).

Truck driver given offence notice for being behind the wheel too long

PRESCOTT ­ On Jan. 22 at about 10:15 pm, Constable Foley stopped a westbound tractor-trailer (headlight was out) on Highway 401 near Edward Street. The driver was found to have been driving for more than 15 straight hours, which exceeds the 13-hour maximum for truckers. He was given a provincial offence notice. The truck remained parked for at least eight hours, according to an OPP news release.

Expired plates did not match car

AUGUSTA ­ During a RIDE check conducted at County Road 15 and Branch Road Jan. 21 at about 8:45 pm, Constable Arnold stopped a 1991 Honda Civic. The licence plates had expired and were not for that car.

A 40-year-old Northumberland man is to appear in court in March to answer to a charge of driving with no insurance. He was also issued a provincial offence notice for having an expired validation tag. The vehicle was towed by a family member.

Speeding even more risky in winter

AUGUSTA ­ On the morning of Jan. 24, Constable Foley conducted speed enforcement patrol on Highway 401 near Blue Church Road. Three people were issued summonses to appear in court after being clocked at speeds of between 150 and 160 kilometres an hour. Police noted in a news release driving at those speeds is dangerous at any time, let alone when drivers have even less control of their vehicles because of poor road conditions such as black ice and packed, icy snow.

Service calls split between townships

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Of the 162 calls for service received by Grenville County OPP in Prescott last week, 42 came from Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. There were 32 calls from Augusta.

Cold doesn't keep people away from Spencerville Winter Festival

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Despite the blistering cold, the Spencerville Winter Festival was still a popular event on the weekend.

Festival volunteer Jackie Barnard indicated the majority of the events had good turnout in spite of the weather; the only event to suffer was the children's games, which ran briefly.

"Everything over the weekend went well and we got pretty good crowds," said Barnard. "The only thing that didn't get a good crowd was the children's games, which the cold really kept the kids from coming out to take part. Overall, we were happy with the weekend; the weather wasn't the best, but you can't control that."

Barnard indicated the other events going on throughout the weekend as part of the festival, got good crowds with many people having a good time.

She indicated the festival committee's pancake breakfast got more than 200 people, the dinner and dance got more than 100 people and the Jr. B Reunion hockey game was a packed house.

"We got a really good crowd at the breakfast," said Barnard. "A lot of people who came for breakfast stayed for the entertainment. It went over really well. The Jr. B hockey reunion was a fun time and a really popular thing. It was very busy and it raised more than $1,000 for CHEO (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario)."

Barnard added the snowmobile ice drags sponsored and run by the Nation River Masonic Lodge got big crowds, with races running throughout the day Saturday.

"There were about 60 snowmobiles out there," explained Barnard.

"There was a good crowd out there bundled up and watching everything. They had a really long day, though, starting at 9 am and running till 8 or 8:30 pm. It was very cold out there, but everyone out there seemed really happy with the event."

Police services board seeks answers on status of new building for OPP

PRESCOTT ­ It is time for answers on the status of a new building for the Grenville County OPP detachment, according to the Prescott Police Services Board.

The board will send a letter to Community Safety and Correctional Services Minister Monte Kwinter asking about a new facility and when it will become a reality.

The local OPP office is housed in a building at the corner of Edward Street and Prescott Centre Drive just south of Highway 401. Space became much tighter this past September when the OPP assumed responsibility for Prescott following the disbandment of the municipal police department and the closing of its offices at the corner of Centre and Henry streets.

Although the need for a new and larger facility has been identified, there has been no announcement to confirm funding for the project.

OPP Inspector Brent Hill, detachment commander for Grenville County, told the board Monday morning he had yet to receive a definite answer on the status of the new building. However, Hill noted he was told recently by the Ontario Realty Corporation not to spend money on the existing building because it will be replaced.

The board decided the time had come to seek a commitment in writing.

"Why don't we get the ball rolling," commented board chairman Stan Kijewski, who added uncertainty over the future of the facility has been going on for too long.

Prescott Mayor and board member Robert Lawn said he would pursue the matter with Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman.

Prior to disbandment of the Prescott Police Service last year, Hill said his preference would be to have the new detachment building as close to Prescott and the 401 as possible.

Police investigate stolen gasoline, counterfeit currency cases in town

PRESCOTT ­ Officers with the Grenville County OPP detachment responded to 53 calls for service in the Prescott patrol zone last week.

Another theft of gasoline was reported at Ultramar Jan. 20. At about 10:50 am, a newer car (silver in colour) was filled with $37.33 in gas and a $4 jug of washer fluid. The car had a male and a female occupant. They drove away (south on Edward Street) without paying. The first three letters of what is believed to be a New York licence plate might be FTJ. Patrols of the area and at the border crossing produced no matches. Constable Jones is investigating.

Two counterfeit bills were found last week. A fake $100 bill was located in a deposit Jan. 17 at the Bank of Montreal.

On Jan. 20, a bogus $20 bill was taken from a bank machine at the Royal Bank. Both bills were forwarded to the RCMP, which confirmed they are counterfeit. No charges are pending in either case. Constable Wright is the investigating officer.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences in Prescott is asked to contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

Take steps to protect pets when temperatures drop

OTTAWA ­ Pet owners should pay special attention to their animals during cold snaps, according to the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies.

Bob Van Tongerloo, CEO of the federation, says some dogs ­ especially short-haired breeds, puppies and older animals ­ should not be left outside for long periods during cold snaps. Dogs that live outdoors should have adequate shelter or be brought indoors when the temperature gets quite low, the federation suggests.

The federation also recommends all cats be kept indoors throughout the year, something that is even more important when extreme weather conditions arise.

"If you are concerned about a pet outside in your area, do not hesitate to contact your local humane society or your municipality's animal control services," Van Tongerloo stated.

The Leeds and Grenville OSPCA animal shelter is located on Centennial Road in Brockville. Call 345-5520.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"It will be the crown jewel along this waterway."

Ingo Ruttenberg, commenting on the proposed condominium project on Water Street

Editor's Notebook

Bad move for good reason

In this space recently, we criticized Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams for his decision to have Canadian flags removed from provincial buildings as part of a disagreement that province has with the federal government on the subject of off-shore resource money. We acknowledged the province might have legitimate beefs with the feds; however, to lower the Maple Leaf as a symbol of discontent only served to needlessly inflame other Canadians instead of producing empathy or a better understanding of the province's position.

In the case of the landowners group and its planned protest on Highway 401 east of Prescott next week, we do not take issue with the concerns of rural Ontarians who believe this province is not responsive to their needs. There is little doubt many of the people who feel compelled to take part in protests like the one planned for this area would not be doing so unless they sincerely believed in the cause. Although the Liberal government has set aside new water regulations for the time being, the prospect of imposing impractical and costly regulations on rural businesses and organizations must be disconcerting to those affected. We would concur with the assertion governments, in general, are not overly responsive to the rural community or are slow to act.

Having acknowledged that, though, we must address the manner in which groups representing rural Ontarians are trying to get their message out to politicians and the public. Blocking the free flow of traffic on a major four-lane highway in the middle of winter is, in a word, irresponsible. It makes for great images on television, but we question the extent to which this and similar protests will increase public awareness, generate public support and prompt the province to be a more willing listener to the concerns of landowners. To disrupt vehicles on the 401 and force hundreds of them to use county and municipal roads in the Prescott area at a time when weather and road conditions might be less than ideal could compromise the safety of the motoring public.

Ron Bonnett, president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, stated in a news release that governments are to blame for forcing farmers to take part in such protests. However, the federation's board voted unanimously not to take part in last Friday's protest in the southwest because the organization's issues are not with truckers and motorists who use the highway.

Rural landowners have a right to be heard, and their concerns are legitimate. Their choice of venue (the 401 and international bridge) is unfortunate, but we hope something good comes out of next Friday's protest so other communities in Ontario will be spared a similar disruptive experience.

Tim Ruhnke

When TV networks take chances, the viewer benefits

BLAKE'S TAKES by Blake McKim

I must admit I love watching television. My love affair with the medium began at an early age when I was first allowed to stay up past 8 pm to watch the "great" sitcoms of the 1980s. And although some of them seem dated and unfunny now (Full House has aged especially poorly), some of them are as fresh and interesting as when they first aired.

A great example of this for me is the sitcom The Golden Girls. The show, which ran on NBC from 1985-1992, is special to me because it was the first sitcom I watched regularly. And though some of the jokes (particularly ones about female "change of life") went over my head, the antics of those ladies from Miami kept me in stitches.

What strikes me about the show today is in spite of its 1980s trappings (particularly the fashions with linebacker shoulder pads), so much of the humour is still funny. And though each character is a cliche (dumb blond, wisecracking crone, embittered divorcée), the writing was so good each character seemed like a real person.

I did a little research and found out some interesting things about the show's history. In particular, I found out NBC took a chance on it and wasn't sure it would fly. It seemed network executives didn't think storylines about a "family" of middle-aged women would click with audiences. But by mid-season, the show became a big hit.

This brings me to my topic. When the fall television season started this past September, I viewed most network offerings with a jaded eye. Most of the new shows were either lame reality-tv retreads, unconvincing spinoffs or unfunny new sitcoms.

I was disappointed until, a couple of weeks into the new season, I came across Desperate Housewives. After just one episode, I was as hooked as when I first watched Golden Girls. Just like that show, Desperate Housewives makes use of female stereotypes (cheating vixen, Martha Stewart clone, harried single mom) and makes the characters three-dimensional, sympathetic people. Even better, the program balances drama, comedy and mystery better than any show I've seen.

A couple weeks ago, I saw an interview with series creator Marc Cherry. He mentioned he'd pitched the series to nearly every network in the U.S. before getting low-rated ABC to give it a try. Just weeks after its premiere, it was the highest-rated new show.

It is important to note Cherry was also one of the writer/producers of The Golden Girls for several seasons. Now I know why one of the first original shows to come along in seasons has characters as well written as the Golden Girls.

The success of Desperate Housewives shows when TV networks take a chance on something different - just like NBC did in the 1980s with Golden Girls - the viewer and the network both stand to benefit.

Reeves added to South Grenville high school committee: 1955

FROM THE ARCHIVES

January 27, 1955

* Herbert Lank, president of DuPont Canada, told the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce the company would not have established its Maitland operations without ensuring the facility has no negative effects on the local environment. "We don't want to live in a shell or an ivory tower, and if things are not what they should be, we want to hear about it," he said.

* A committee studying the possibility of creating a South Grenville district high school board has added Augusta Reeve Harold Ralph, Edwardsburg Reeve Roy Henderson and Cardinal Reeve Arthur Casselman to its ranks. A similar move was made in 1954, but a committee recommended no action be taken at that time after Edwardsburg and Cardinal opposed the new district high school arrangement.

* A spectacular fire that took place in the middle of the night at the garage of Stanley Ward on James Street East just off Edward Street caused $75,000 in damage and destroyed 12 vehicles. Among the vehicles were a bulldozer, tractor, panel truck loaded with laundry and several cars. A passing truck driver spotted the blaze. No one was injured.

January 30, 1985

* The Easter Seals Snowarama was an unqualified success. The annual event, co-ordinated by the Rotary Club of Prescott and organized by members of the Grenville, Johnstown, Mainsville-Pittston and South Branch snowmobile clubs, raised more than $13,400 ­ double the amount pledged the previous year. Event co-ordinator Matt Hayes won the award for top pledge-getter (more than $2,000). Hazel Wallace had the highest total ($410) for female participants.

* Leeds and Grenville Board of Education trustees have taken a middle-of-the-road stance on the issue of full funding for Catholic schools. The local board is supporting in principle a Metro Toronto public board challenge of proposed funding. However, the Leeds and Grenville public board will seek to continue discussions with the local separate school board.

* Hugh Gallaugher, owner of Grenville Pharmacy, said he was surprised there was no negative response to his store's move six months ago to stop selling cigarettes and tobacco products. Gallaugher noted the decision was not difficult because he expects the number of smokers will decline in the coming years. He added the store was not making much money on cigarette sales; the retail price is just a few cents above cost.

In search of the Dawson City Nuggets and One-Eyed Frank McGee

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

The harbour area of Seattle is the most unlikely place to find hockey history and even a chunk of Ottawa-related Canadiana.

Yet, the Seattle Metropolitans became the first American team to win the Stanley Cup in 1917. It was in Seattle's downtown that the 1919 Stanley Cup was cancelled because of a flu epidemic. For now, 1919 is the only year the Cup had no winner.

One hundred years ago this month, the Dawson City Nuggets passed through Seattle's harbour to make Stanley Cup history. They came through Seattle on their way to Ottawa to face the famed Silver Seven and the legendary One-Eyed Frank McGee for the 1905 Stanley Cup.

This week, our family will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of this trek of the Nuggets and the legend of One-Eyed Frank McGee. We will do this as we retrace the route taken from Seattle to Ottawa by the Nuggets 100 years earlier as we make the move back to Canada. Call it the ultimate hockey road trip for a family of Senators fans.

We can't and won't retrace the entire journey made by the Dawson City team in the winter of 1905. I don't think my wife and kids would go for crossing the Yukon by dogsled. While they crossed the continent by train, we will do it in a van. The trip will give the kids an incredible sense of the vastness of our land.

The Dawson City Nuggets began their journey to Ottawa by dogsled on their way to Whitehorse. Three of the players tried to ride bicycles there, but the snow was too difficult to negotiate and they ended up walking up to 50 miles a day. One of those three players was 17-year-old Albert Forrest, who remains the youngest goalie to ever play in a Stanley Cup final. After meeting up in Whitehorse, they headed for Skagway, Alaska, where the team was left stranded for three days. They would eventually board a steamship and ended up in the Seattle harbour. From Seattle, they took a train across the continent and reached Ottawa some 23 days after they left.

The day after arriving in Ottawa, the Nuggets played Game 1 of the series. They were tired, exhausted and had not been on skates for almost four weeks. If you have ever felt jetlag, imagine dogsled lag. The Silver Seven won the game 9-2.

In the second game of the series, One-Eyed Frank McGee would set a Stanley Cup record that still stands, as he scored 14 goals for Ottawa in a 23-2 victory.

As Ottawa launches celebrations for its 150th anniversary as a city this month, One-Eyed Frank McGee seems to be Ottawa's forgotten hero.

He was one of the most gifted and most popular hockey players at the turn of the century. He was a brilliant stickhandler, but he was also known for his matinee-idol looks and for always being perfectly groomed. In fact, he ironed his hockey pants before every game.

He began his hockey career while attending Ottawa U. as a student. Early in his career, it was in a rough game against the rival Montreal Wanderers that McGee was hit hard by Montreal tough guy Pokey Leahy. McGee was carried from the ice, bleeding from a head wound. He would permanently lose site in his left eye.

Despite his family and friends urging him to give up the violent game, he would return, and One-Eyed Frank McGee would become the most feared scorer of his day.

McGee eventually crossed paths with Leahy again. Although McGee was a clean player, the Ottawa star skated up to Leahy and said he was out to settle an old score. Legend has it that Leahy warned him, saying that if he came anywhere near him, he'd knock his other eye out.

Sure enough, early in the game, McGee lined up Leahy and flattened him with a vicious check. Leahy, unable to get up, was carried off the ice. He would never play hockey again.

While he was a star in the game, it was what he did off the ice that made One-Eyed Frank McGee a hero. In 1915 he enlisted in the Canadian infantry, getting a friend to enlist in his name so that he could skirt the issue of only having one eye. He quickly rose up the ranks from private to captain and was known as a strong soldier and a solid leader.

In the spring of 1916 during a fierce battle in France, an enemy shell did what nobody on a hockey rink could ­ it stopped One-Eyed Frank McGee. The life of one of the greatest athletes the area has ever produced came to an abrupt and bloody end. One-Eyed Frank McGee died as he lived ­ as a hero.

It's easy to get disillusioned by the stalemate of hockey involving business and politics. But as we cross the country, following the route of the Dawson City Nuggets to Ottawa, the stories and the legend of One-Eyed Frank McGee will keep the game of hockey in perspective, and it will remind us of the sacrifices made by those who died throughout the century to make Canada the true north strong and free.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Columnist is challenged to enter the "real world" of education

The Editor;

Re: "Bullying problem is out of control in Ontario public schools," Jan. 12.

It is indeed a challenge to respond to this editorial which is so laden with generalized ad homonyms and erroneous arguments. I feel a response is absolutely necessary, if only to say to Mr. Morris, come spend a week in a school and teach in a classroom. Walk for a week in our shoes and surely your eyes will be opened.

It is all too easy to stand outside of a profession and make statements attacking the integrity, the work ethic and commitment of those within that stated profession. Mr. Morris you are wrong when you assert that experienced teachers in the school system are not dedicated to the well-being of the children who sit before them each and every day. It is that very dedication and determination that has kept them in this profession.

In response to your column I put forward a few facts:

* 69 per cent of Ontario's school boards, responding to a 2001 survey of the Canadian Teachers Federation, indicated that there is a grave concern relative to teacher retention, not only retaining teachers in their first five years, but also retaining teachers who are mid-career.

* More than 80 per cent of the teachers who leave the profession, both beginning teachers and mid-career teachers, report doing so because they can not meet all of the demands required to truly meet the varied and complex needs of their students.

* Preparation time, during the school day, is essential for allowing teachers to evaluate students, develop individualized programs, contact parents, and consult with other teachers/professionals regarding the progress and well-being of students.

The demands on teachers today are unprecedented, facing classes of up to 30+ students, some of them with exceptionalities which require significant additional individual attention. Moreover, our schools are a microcosm of society, and as such, teachers must address and deal with a multiplicity of issues far beyond delivering an academic program to their students.

With regard to the absurd reference to the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan, neither the teachers nor the Ontario Government, the two partners of the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan, have anything to do with investment decisions made by the OTTP staff, experienced staff and market experts who work independently thereby ensuring investment decisions are never politicized.

I close my response by challenging you to come to the "real world" of education and our schools before you criticize and diminish the work done by dedicated and hardworking professionals. The teaching profession is one of the most important professions in the world ­ where would our society be without teachers who cared for and nurtured their students, teachers who inspired and challenged students to achieve their best in a holistic sense.

Indeed, where would you be Mr. Morris, without dedicated teachers who undoubtedly provided you with the skills and drive necessary to write and to become a journalist - even if there were grave errors in the information and argumentation you presented.

Marilies Rettig
Teacher and President, Eastern Unit, OECTA

Train whistle claims are nothing more than noise

Dear Editor;

I recently read a letter to the editor regarding train horn silencing in the town of Prescott, written by one Mr. Countryman. This is in direct response to his claims Prescott residents would go deaf if train horns were not silenced.

This claim is absurd and completely contrary to any evidence or even logic. To verify my beliefs, I contacted the Canadian National Railway company, and received the following information. First, that all train personnel must undergo a series of medical examinations every two years, and if they fail to pass they forfeit their job. Among the requirements is near perfect hearing (along with visual and colour sense) and according to Dwayne Newfeld of CN (to whom my questions were forwarded), although no CN medical results were available there is no knowledge of any employee failing the examination due to hearing loss.

Mr. Newfeld himself has worked with CN for 30 years, much of it trackside, and was exposed to far more train horns close up than the average non-railroader, and has suffered no hearing loss.

The basic idea though of hearing loss from such is preposterous. Hearing loss does not occur from a brief two-to-three second blast of 111 decibels, such as a train horn. It does, however, occur upon prolonged exposure to such loud noises, such as at the average high school dance, or NHL hockey game.

It's not the train horns we need to cut down on if we want to prevent hearing loss among our citizens.

On a second point, I would like to address Mr. Countryman's second remark, that rail service increases in the coming years would bring 70 to 80 trains through a day. That figure is absolutely absurd! How many times do I need to point it out?

Even with a 20-per-cent increase in service, there would only be 56 trains a day. That's still 20 trains and 240 horn blasts fewer than Mr. Countryman and others' figures.

Again, I urge Prescott authorities to use the money they would spend on the safety precautions for silencing the horns on something to actually improve the town.

Tim Hayman
RR #3 Prescott

SCHOOL SCENE

Algonquin Public School: Algonquin is twinning Family Literacy Day with tsunami relief fundraising day.

Starting shortly after morning recess Thursday, families are invited to join their children for Family Buddy Reading Time followed by lunch at the school. Then, while students are outside getting some fresh air, parents will be able to browse the bake sale table and staff set up for the Family Play Time in the afternoon. Students (and family members) will have a range of activities from which to choose, including buying a recycled toy from our toy drive sales, purchasing raffle tickets for a five-pound Hershey chocolate bar donated by Tom Fouriezos or participating in activities such as the bean bag toss, face painting, numbered carpet toss and cupcake walk.

There's a twist: each student will receive a passport for the fundraising event. For every passport turned in at the end of the day, Principal Patricia Mayer will give the student a loonie or donate to the cause.

Benson Public School: Once again, students were recognized for being co-operative. At Friday's assembly, Nathan Mitchel, Jeffery Trillo, Matthew Dishaw, Devin Johnston, Jessica Holmes, Megan Tobin and Brittney Myers were all presented with certificates for their outstanding behavior.

Our student council is holding auditions for the upcoming talent show. The talent show will be held during our of winter carnival which will take place the week of Feb. 14.

Our hot lunch program continues with pizza being offered both Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please remember to have your money in on Monday morning and also that milk must be ordered a week in advance.

Mrs. Duval's grade one class will be celebrating Family Literacy Day Thursday, Jan. 27 with a pajama party. Snacks and stories will be shared in the evening with the children.

On Friday, representatives from South Grenville District High School will be visiting the Grade 8 class to help prepare the students for the transition to high school.

Boundary Street Public School: Students in Mme. Wainwright's and Mrs. Cromb's classes ­ on their own initiative ­ collected coins during their lunch break to support the tsunami victims. The two-week total of $132 will be sent to the Red Cross.

A French Immersion open house will be held during the second week of February. All students and their parents will be invited to come to meet the staff, talk with students currently in the program, and to tour our facilities. Information flyers will be sent to our surrounding schools this week.

Staff from SGDHS will be coming to visit our Grade 8 students on Monday, Jan. 31, in the afternoon. Information about course selections and the secondary school will be shared.

Friday, Feb. 4 is a PA Day.

Hot lunch this week is Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Central Public School: The New Year is nearly a month old and students in Tiger country have been very busy getting back into the swing of things.

Students in the primary grades will be skating Friday, Jan. 28. A reminder to students: please have a helmet.

The senior boys and girls basketball teams have held tryouts and are now preparing for exhibition games and a tournament in Brockville Feb. 19-20.

Grade 7 and 8 students have begun curling every Monday at the Prescott club.

Intramural basketball is beginning this week for grades 6, 7 and 8. There are three boys teams and three girls teams.

All students have been fundraising in support of the South Asia tsunami relief effort. Activities were set up and organized by student council, including coin collections, a Bridge of Hope, the sale of friendship pins and a bake sale. Activities will continue to the end of this week.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

Maynard and Maitland Public Schools: January is soon coming to a close and hopefully leaving behind freezing rain and subzero temperatures. On the warmer days, our students at both schools are enjoying an opportunity to play in the snow.

This week at Maitland, our students will take part in their bimonthly music workshop with Vice-Principal Terry Gardiner and local musician Neil Matheson.

This week at Maynard, our students are creating a "ribbon of hope". By doing chores for their families, they will receive loonies and toonies which we will then place in a line that we hope stretches from one end of our school to the other. The total funds will then be donated to the Canadian Red Cross to support the relief efforts in South Asia. We look forward to celebrating our students efforts at our Friday recognition assembly.

St. Joseph Catholic School: Our MS Read-a-thon will be kicked off at an assembly Thursday, Jan. 27.

The Celtic Rathskallions will entertain St. Joe's students and staff at 9:20 am Friday, Jan. 28. Interested family members are welcome!

The St. Joseph Talent Show on the afternoon of Feb. 3 is causing a bit of a stir through the halls of St. Joe's. Instrumental music, dancing, singing and airbands are on the program.

Friday, Feb. 4 is a Professional Development Day. Students will have the day to rest, relax and catch up on schoolwork. Teachers and support staff will enjoy a day of faith development and curriculum support.

Grade 7 students and parents are inviting the Prescott community to a spaghetti supper Thursday, Feb. 10 at St. Mark's Parish Centre. This supper is a part of the fundraising for the Quebec City trip in April. There will be two sittings at 5 and 6 pm. Tickets can be obtained at the school or at the door.

Dancing shoes are out as students warm up for our dance-a-thon Friday, Feb. 11.

St. Mark Catholic School: This past Monday, we celebrated a beautiful mass on the theme of loving, sharing and caring with Father Appelman as celebrant.

This evening, we will hold a Care for Kids parent information meeting for all our Kindergarten parents at 7 pm at St. Mark Catholic School. This meeting is a mandatory requirement before the program instruction in class may begin.

On Thursday and Friday, we welcome Tracy Grier from the Ontario Dairy Education Program. Her focus will be on nutrition and dairy pioneers for Grade 3 classes.

Mid-year assessment for grades 1-3 students will begin Jan. 31.

A meeting for Grade 2 parents of students making their first reconciliation and communion will be held Jan. 31 at 7 pm at St. Mark's Catholic Church.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

South Edwardsburg Public School: Yesterday, Grenville Christian College students came to SEPS for a friendly newcombe ball game. Both teams represented their schools well and demonstrated great sportsmanship.

Congratulations to the "Students of the Month" for December and January. We appreciate MacDonald's and Burger King for supporting our students.

A school council meeting will take place Thursday at 6:30 pm in the library. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Friday, Feb. 4 is a Professional Activity Day. Children do not attend school.

Parents who have a child of Junior or Senior Kindergarten age and wish for them to attend South Edwardsburg Public School in Sept. 2005 should notify the school as soon as possible.

Hot lunch today is hamburgers.

Help Spencerville Fair history by submitting items for special book

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Spencerville Agricultural Society is seeking material for a book being published to mark the 150th anniversary of the Spencerville Fair.

The book will be printed in time for this year's anniversary edition of the fair in September. Local residents are being asked to check their old scrapbooks and family photo albums to come up with pictures and anecdotes for use in the publication.

Marc Tessier, chairperson of the fair's 150th anniversary committee, stated the heart and soul of the fair are the people and businesses that have grown alongside the annual event. "We would like to see this spirit reflected in the book," Tessier stated.

He noted there is not that much in the way of information on the early years of the fair. As a result, a trip to the University of Guelph to scour its historical agriculture holdings is being planned.

Many hours have already been spent going through material at local historical societies. Fair board member Wayne Henry has compiled what Tessier described as an impressive list of facts and figures.

In addition, the anniversary committee has plans to interview individuals in the community to put a human face on the fair. "It is what makes history come alive," said Tessier, who added the committee wants the book to be "vibrant."

Contact Tessier at (613) 989-1098 or tessierm@magma.ca. The mailing address is Spencerville Agricultural Society, Box 86, Spencerville K0E 1X0.

SCHOOL SCENE

Central Public School: The New Year is nearly a month old and students in Tiger country have been very busy getting back into the swing of things.

Students in the primary grades will be skating Friday, Jan. 28. A reminder to students: please have a helmet.

The senior boys and girls basketball teams have held tryouts and are now preparing for exhibition games and a tournament in Brockville Feb. 19-20.

Grade 7 and 8 students have begun curling every Monday at the Prescott club.

Intramural basketball is beginning this week for grades 6, 7 and 8. There are three boys teams and three girls teams.

All students have been fundraising in support of the South Asia tsunami relief effort. Activities were set up and organized by student council, including coin collections, a Bridge of Hope, the sale of friendship pins and a bake sale. Activities will continue to the end of this week.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

Maynard and Maitland Public Schools: January is soon coming to a close and hopefully leaving behind freezing rain and sub-zero temperatures. On the warmer days, our students at both schools are enjoying an opportunity to play in the snow.

This week at Maitland, our students will take part in their bimonthly music workshop with Vice-Principal Terry Gardiner and local musician Neil Matheson.

This week at Maynard, our students are creating a "ribbon of hope". By doing chores for their families, they will receive loonies and toonies which we will then place in a line that we hope stretches from one end of our school to the other. The total funds will then be donated to the Canadian Red Cross to support the relief efforts in South Asia. We look forward to celebrating our students efforts at our Friday recognition assembly.

St. Joseph Catholic School: Our MS Read-a-thon will be kicked off at an assembly Thursday, Jan. 27.

The Celtic Rathskallions will entertain St. Joe's students and staff at 9:20 am Friday, Jan. 28. Interested family members are welcome!

The St. Joseph Talent Show on the afternoon of Feb. 3 is causing a bit of a stir through the halls of St. Joe's. Instrumental music, dancing, singing and airbands are on the program.

Friday, Feb. 4 is a Professional Development Day. Students will have the day to rest, relax and catch up on schoolwork. Teachers and support staff will enjoy a day of faith development and curriculum support.

Grade 7 students and parents are inviting the Prescott community to a spaghetti supper Thursday, Feb. 10 at St. Mark's Parish Centre. This supper is a part of the fundraising for the Quebec City trip in April. There will be two sittings at 5 and 6 pm. Tickets can be obtained at the school or at the door.

Dancing shoes are out as students warm up for our dance-a-thon Friday, Feb. 11.

St. Mark Catholic School: This past Monday, we celebrated a beautiful mass on the theme of loving, sharing and caring with Father Appelman as celebrant.

This evening, we will hold a Care for Kids parent information meeting for all our Kindergarten parents at 7 pm at St. Mark Catholic School. This meeting is a mandatory requirement before the program instruction in class may begin.

On Thursday and Friday, we welcome Tracy Grier from the Ontario Dairy Education Program. Her focus will be on nutrition and dairy pioneers for Grade 3 classes.

Mid-year assessment for grades 1-3 students will begin Jan. 31.

A meeting for Grade 2 parents of students making their first reconciliation and communion will be held Jan. 31 at 7 pm at St. Mark's Catholic Church.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

South Edwardsburg Public School: Yesterday, Grenville Christian College students came to SEPS for a friendly newcombe ball game. Both teams represented their schools well and demonstrated great sportsmanship.

Congratulations to the "Students of the Month" for December and January. We appreciate MacDonald's and Burger King for supporting our students.

A school council meeting will take place Thursday at 6:30 pm in the library. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Friday, Feb. 4 is a Professional Activity Day. Children do not attend school.

Parents who have a child of Junior or Senior Kindergarten age and wish for them to attend South Edwardsburg Public School in Sept. 2005 should notify the school as soon as possible.

Hot lunch today is hamburgers.

Week of Prayer is under way

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Ministerial Association is hosting noon worship services in celebration of 2005 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

The services began Monday and will run through Friday, Jan. 28 at St. John's United Church.

Music and meditations will begin daily at 12:05 pm with a light lunch being served immediately following the worship. Each day will be hosted by a member of a different church belonging to the association.

The theme for this year's week of prayer is "Our Foundation is Jesus Christ."

Free-will offerings will be received for the Food For All Food Bank.

For more information on Week of Prayer activities, call 657-4702.

Dart tournament will be hot stuff

CARDINAL - The Cardinal Mixed Dart League is preparing to host its Hot Stuff Dart Tournament.

The tournament is scheduled for this Saturday, 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.

Palliative care telethon to be held next weekend

Annual event has raised more than $1.3 million since its inception in 1981

BROCKVILLE ­ The 30-Hour Telethon for palliative care will take place next weekend.

The 22nd annual event will begin Saturday, Feb. 5 at noon and continue until Sunday, Feb. 6 at 6 pm. Throughout the telethon, local entertainers will perform at the Brockville Arts Centre on King Street West. The public is invited to attend.

The event will be broadcast on TVCogeco and 104.9 JR-FM.

Palliative care services based at St. Vincent de Paul Hospital in Brockville receive no government funding and rely entirely on support from the community.

Money raised during the telethon will stay in the community to provide consult team staff (including physicians, nurses, pharmacists and volunteers) and materials and supplies promoting comfort for patients and their families, some of who are from the South Grenville area.

Since 1981, the annual telethon has raised more than $1.3 million.

In addition to entertainment, stories from patients and their friends and families will be presented during the broadcast.

Individuals, service clubs and businesses sponsor slots, answer the phone and do other things to support the telethon and the local palliative care program.

For more information on the 30-Hour Telethon, call Bruce Wylie (chairman of the organizing committee) at 342-2011 or 345-1666, ext. 225.

Volunteers needed for 2007 plowing match

Event near Crosby will draw tens of thousands to Leeds and Grenville, organizers say

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Even though it's more than two years away, Steve Clark says excitement for the Leeds and Grenville 2007 International Plowing Match (IPM) is growing.

"It's basically going to be the largest event in Leeds and Grenville history," explained Clark, chairman of the IPM committee. "There is already so much interest."

The 2007 IPM is to be held at Chantland Farms (and adjacent farms) near the village of Crosby in the Township of Rideau Lakes. The five-day event is tentatively scheduled for the third week of September.

The committee held the first of two public meetings at the municipal office in Spencerville last Wednesday night. The Leeds and Grenville IPM Committee is staging the event with help from the Leeds and Grenville Plowman's Association. The meetings, said Clark, are designed to inform the public about the plowing match and to look for volunteers.

Clark estimated the match will require thousands of volunteers; the committee is organizing over 40 volunteer committees dealing with everything from fundraising to transportation to marketing.

"These public meetings give us the chance to sign up volunteers and gain momentum," stated Clark.

"We need to start now to get volunteers."

Garnering enough volunteers from both Leeds and Grenville is crucial because there is a worry among committee members people in Grenville may not be as inclined to volunteer for an event which is an hour away.

"The challenge we have is uniting people in the counties," said Clark. "It will be an opportunity to showcase all of Leeds and Grenville."

Clark emphasized the IPM will be a real boon to the area economy. "It (the IPM) will bring 80,000 people to the area over five days. The economic spinoffs are huge."

The plowing match, stated Clark, is an event which will cost between $3-3.5 million to put on. The costs of staging the event are handled through corporate sponsorships, fundraising and revenue from vendors who sell on the site.

International plowing matches are held each year in different counties in Ontario. In addition to the flagship plowing competition in which "Queen of the Furrow" for Ontario is crowned, matches offer an exhibition of the best of rural life in the province.

Clark emphasizes the event will pump millions into the Leeds and Grenville economy, with everything from hotel accommodations to gas and meals purchased to visits to area historical sites.

Another way which a plowing match can benefit a community, said Clark, is by being the basis for a legacy which endures long after the match is over because of the funds it raised. "(The IPM) can have the opportunity to raise funds for the community it's in," said Clark.

To ensure the event's success, the Leeds and Grenville IPM committee has hired professional event consultant Jan Bonhomme as coordinator of the plowing match.

"It's (staging a plowing match) a massive undertaking," she stated. "Thousands of people have to get involved."

However, Bonhomme does not anticipate the IPM will have trouble getting volunteers for the event "Leeds and Grenville is known for its volunteers," she explained.

Bonhomme added that anyone - regardless of age, interest, or walk of life - can and should volunteer for the match.

"Everyone thinks they have nothing to offer," she stated. "But everyone does."

In regards to the actual event, Bonhomme says there is no limit to what organizers can offer. "The plowing match is such a huge, massive event," she said. "There is no limit to what can happen (at the event.)"

"It's going to bring an influx of tourists into the (Leeds and Grenville) area," stated Bill Sloan, vice-chair of the Leeds and Grenville IPM committee and an Edwardsburgh-Cardinal councillor. "It's a very big project for us to do."

Sloan also said people in the South Grenville area should not hesitate to volunteer for the match just because it is in another county.

"You don't have to go up there to work. It (volunteering) involves all different things."

For more information about the Leeds and Grenville 2007 International Plowing Match or to volunteer for the event, call Bill Sloan at 657-4583.

Hospital funding aimed at reducing deficits

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ Two hospitals in the united counties area will get part of the $200 million in one-time transition funding announced by the provincial government last week.

Brockville General Hospital will receive $574,700. The money is aimed at helping hospitals with up-front expenses associated with improving operations and balancing budgets.

Leona Dombrowsky, regional minister for Eastern Ontario, indicated in a news release the government is asking hospitals to focus more of their spending on direct patient care and less on administration.

"Brockville General is leading the way, so we are going to help them with the up-front costs of making these important changes," she stated.

Kemptville District Hospital will receive $310,800 as part of the transition funding. Of the $200 million being distributed, $91 million is to cover severance and other labour adjustment costs and $70 million is to reward hospitals which take steps to reduce or eliminate deficits. Nineteen million dollars is for small rural hospitals which have difficulty integrating existing services with other providers.

The provincial government has also committed to hiring 8,000 new nurses.

Dombrowsky is the Liberal MPP for the riding of Hastings-Frontenac-Lennox & Addington. Leeds-Grenville is served by Progressive Conservative MPP Bob Runciman.

Sign up now for the first serving of Soups and Salads

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

We are pleased to report from our annual meeting. While many members chose not to attend, we had a good representation from the membership.

Several suggestions were presented during the meeting and the lunch that followed. We are looking forward to 2005. Come and join us as we try some new programs as well as continue those which are already established.

Just a reminder we would like to sign up for the health series "Soups and Salads." There will be recipes which cater to one or two people but can easily be doubled for more people. The first session will take place Friday, Feb. 4 starting at 10 am. Call 925-5300.

The final payment for Magog is due Feb. 10.

Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Valerie Schulz; 2nd, Kitty Wormington; door, Brenda Humphry. Fun bridge ­ Delia Seeley. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Mary Reynolds; 2nd, Dora Cook; 3rd, Irene Lake; door, Gladys Somerville.

The Grenville Land Stewardship Council offers this energy-saving tip:

* During the heating season, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

South Grenville Giants volleyball teams sit in top spot in LGSSAA standings

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants girls volleyball teams a had a big week at their host Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association (LGSSAA) volleyball tournament Thursday in Prescott.

The senior Giants increased their first place lead to six games over the Gananoque Trojans heading into South Grenville's final week of regular season play Feb. 10.

"It was a pretty good day for us," said Giants coach Ann Drummond. "It was nice for us to now see all the teams and like we expected Gananoque was a very strong opponent and it's probably going to come down to the final games to the season to see who finishes where, but we're improving every game."

Giants player Shannon Campbell added, "We did well, but we found out our main competition is probably going to be Gananoque. We'll just have to work hard to continue to improve so we can beat them in the LGSSAA playoffs."

The senior giants started the day off strong winning three straight games against the BCI Red Rams (25-5, 25-10, 25-10) and North Grenville Knights (25-20, 25-16, 25-16) but then faced a tough Gananoque Trojans team for the first time this season.

Against the Trojans, South Grenville came out flat dropping the first two games of the match 15-25 and 18-25, before rallying back to take a 25-17 victory for seven wins at the tournament, one win ahead of the second place Trojans.

Drummond pointed to first year senior Kristen Jessome as one of the team's bright spots Thursday with her play in the back court as well as strong service from Grade 10 Thea Verstegen.

Juniors post 6-3 record

The Giants junior girls volleyball team tied for first place at the tournament with six wins to extend its season total to 14, good enough for first place in the LGSSAA standings. Gananoque, BCI and St. Mary are tied for second place with 11 wins apiece.

The Giants managed to sweep three consecutive games against North Grenville (25-5, 25-18, 25-19) but then split games taking two of three from BCI (27-26, 25-8, 18-25) and winning one of three against the Trojans (20-25, 25-14, 21-25).

Junior Giants co-coach Christine Sloan indicated the tournament continued to show the team's improvement throughout the season.

"We played a lot better against teams like BCI," said Sloan. "The girls are starting to come together and really work as a team. We also got our first look at Gananoque and we didn't know what to expect and we didn't play as well as we could have, but it gives us something to work on."

Sloan indicated the teamwork was much improved in the tournament; she noted strong performances from Karrie Neddo, Shannon Dalley and defensive Amber Moulton.

Both Giants teams will resume their LGSSAA schedules Feb. 10, when they travel to BCI; the senior girls will travel to Ernestown to participate in a tournament Feb. 5.

Atom Kings beat Barons

SPENCERVILLE - The Rideau-St. Lawrence major atom Kings managed to reel off a win and two losses in recent league play.

On Saturday, the Kings hosted Cumberland at the Spencerville arena and came away with a 3-2 win over the Barons. Marc Beckstead, Chris Moss and Adam Douma scored for the Kings. Joey Sargeant, Tanner Casselman, Taylor Henry and Shane Riddell added assists.

On Saturday, the Rangers travelled to Carleton Place and dropped a 2-0 decision to the Ottawa Valley Titans.

On Jan. 19, the Kings travelled to Gloucester and fell 5-2 to the Rangers. Sargeant and Moss scored for RSL, while Slater Koekkoek, Cal Laforty and Sargeant chipped in with helpers.

SG peewee B Rangers start new year with loss and draw

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville peewee B Rangers stumbled into the New Year with a loss and tie.

On Jan. 5, the Rangers travelled to Williamstown and fell 6-4 to the Char-Lan Rebels, despite getting off to an early 2-0 lead to the game.

On Jan. 11, the Rangers played host to the Cornwall Royals at the Leo Boivin Community Centre and started off with a 2-0 lead before letting the Royals come back for a 4-4 draw.

Rangers' goals in the pair of games came from Scott Stephenson (2), Robbie Deeks, Trent Corney, Kurtis Lavery, Zach Temple, Cameron Symington and Jacob Hayes. O.J. Knol (4), Deeks (2), Lavery (2), Dylan Render, Stephenson and Corney added assists.

Peewee house Rangers #2 score 4-1 victory at home

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Rangers peewee B house league team #1 continued its strong play this season with a home ice victory.

On Jan. 10, the Rangers #1 scored a 4-1 win over Louisville at the Cardinal and District Community Centre. Sean Perrin, Michael Lawless, Colman Colpitts and Josh Mintz scored for the Rangers, while Dustin Miller (2), Mintz (2) and Hunter McCarroll added assists. Dustin Kester and Jacob Scott shared netminding duties in the win.

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 this Saturday at the Cardinal Legion.

Registration begins at noon and games start at 1 pm. Teams must consist of two women, one man, with a draw for the fourth member of the team from a pool of local firefighters. For more information or to pre-register, call Jeanne at 657-4558.

Teams needed for Randy Kroone Mixed Sno-Pitch Tournament

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Kinsmen Club will be running the 11th annual Randy Kroone Memorial Sno-Pitch Tournament Saturday, Feb. 12 at the Kriska ball diamonds.

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

For more information, contact Art Hitsman at 925-1315 or 213-1136.

Cold doesn't keep people away from Spencerville Winter Festival

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Despite the blistering cold, the Spencerville Winter Festival was still a popular event on the weekend.

Festival volunteer Jackie Barnard indicated the majority of the events had good turnout in spite of the weather; the only event to suffer was the children's games, which ran briefly.

"Everything over the weekend went well and we got pretty good crowds," said Barnard. "The only thing that didn't get a good crowd was the children's games, which the cold really kept the kids from coming out to take part. Overall, we were happy with the weekend; the weather wasn't the best, but you can't control that."

Barnard indicated the other events going on throughout the weekend as part of the festival, got good crowds with many people having a good time.

She indicated the festival committee's pancake breakfast got more than 200 people, the dinner and dance got more than 100 people and the Jr. B Reunion hockey game was a packed house.

"We got a really good crowd at the breakfast," said Barnard. "A lot of people who came for breakfast stayed for the entertainment. It went over really well. The Jr. B hockey reunion was a fun time and a really popular thing. It was very busy and it raised more than $1,000 for CHEO (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario)."

Barnard added the snowmobile ice drags sponsored and run by the Nation River Masonic Lodge got big crowds, with races running throughout the day Saturday.

"There were about 60 snowmobiles out there," explained Barnard.

"There was a good crowd out there bundled up and watching everything. They had a really long day, though, starting at 9 am and running till 8 or 8:30 pm. It was very cold out there, but everyone out there seemed really happy with the event."

Novice B Rangers defeat North Dundas and North Leeds, tie Brockville Braves

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville novice B Rangers continued their strong play in January picking up a pair of wins and a draw in recent league action.

On Jan. 23, South Grenville scored a 6-1 victory over the North Dundas Demons at the Leo Boivin Community Centre.

John Lawless and Zachary Shankar each had hat tricks to lead the Rangers, while Cameron Smith (2), Tyson Kirkby, Tom Kippax and Curtis Ross added assists. David Armstrong got the win in goal.

On Jan. 22, the Rangers travelled to Westport and scored a 4-2 win over the previously undefeated North Leeds Stars.

Lawless led the Rangers with a pair of goals, while Shankar and Smith added singles. Kirkby (2), Shankar and Kippax chipped in with helpers. Armstrong picked up the victory in goal.

On Jan. 18, the Rangers had to settle for a 2-2 draw with the Brockville Jr. Braves in Prescott. Shankar scored both of South Grenville's goals, with Ross and Tayler Mason picking up assists.

Prescott rinks travel to Quebec to compete

CHATEAU MONTEBELLO - Two teams from Prescott travelled to Chateau Montebello, Quebec Jan. 11 to take part in the 73rd annual Lady Sewell Curling Bonspiel.

Eighteen teams from Ontario and Quebec participated in the tournament.

The rink of skip Margie Michalski, vice Gloria Bildson, second Sue Daw and lead Heather Bishop had the best local showing at the bonspiel with a one-game high score to advance to the 4th flight final, where they were defeated by the RA Riverside rink from Ottawa.

Candy Alexander's rink of vice Lois Copeman, second Nancy Edmunds and lead June Allen finished in the middle of the pack at the tournament.

On Jan. 27, the Prescott Curling Club ladies day curlers will be holding their 4th annual Robbie Burns Invitational Ladies Curling Bonspiel.

Matches begin at 9 am and run until 3 pm. Spectators are welcome to attend.

South Grenville atom B return with road wins against Smiths Falls and Gananoque

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville atom B Rangers are on a hot streak reeling off a pair of wins and a tie in recent league play.

On Jan. 15, the Rangers travelled to Smiths Falls and scored a 4-1 win over the Bears. Brett Van Stralen led all scorers with a two-goal performance, while Broydon Stufko and Alex Stephenson added singles. Cody Adams (3), Matt Courtney (2), Houston Bujacz and Stufko chipped in with helpers.

On Jan. 16, South Grenville made the trip to Gananoque and came away with a 2-0 victory over the Islanders. Nathan Peters and Devin Eaton shared netminding duties in the shutout. Bujacz and Stephenson scored for the Rangers, while Stufko added an assist.

On Jan. 18, South Grenville had to settle for a 2-2 draw against the Gananoque Islanders at the Leo Boivin Community Centre in Prescott.

Stephenson and Stufko scored for the Rangers, while John Wood and Stufko added assists.

Atom B house squad beats Massena 7-1 in Spencerville

SPENCERVILLE - The South Grenville atom B Rangers house team #2 continued its strong season with a win over Massena.

On Jan. 19, the Rangers scored a 7-1 victory over Massena at the Spencerville arena. Zach St. John scored a pair of goals to lead the Rangers. Dylan Bell, Mike Dalley, Kyle Berry, Ryan Grimes and Derik Bourgeois added singles.

Kurtis Selleck, Bell, Luke Severson, Shenda Harrison, Grimes and Kavan O'Brien added assists.

Peewee B Rangers score convincing victory at home against visiting Athens

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Rangers peewee B house team #2 continued its strong play with a dominant victory over the Athens Aeros.

On Jan. 17, the Rangers #1 scored a 14-0 victory over Athens at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

Josh Mintz and Sean Perrin each scored four goals to lead South Grenville, while Rhys Larry, Dustin Miller, Michael Lawless, Taylor Garswood, Colman Colpitts and Phil Biccum added singles.

Pat Froom (4), Perrin (4), Kyle McNamara (3), Miller (2), Lawless (2), Colpitts (2), Larry (2), Biccum (2), Garswood, Mintz and Josh Jones chipped in with helpers.

Jacob Scott and Dustin Kester split time in goal in the shutout.

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