VOL. 175, NO. 8~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ February 23, 2005

GFA going to TO

Farmers off to Queen's Park rally next week; landowners' protest set for following week

TORONTO ­ The Ontario Federation of Agriculture will be leading a protest at Queen's Park next week.

The federation, which has more than 40,000 members, did not endorse the landowners' Feb. 4 protest in Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal; however, OFA is on board for a rally in front of the Ontario legislature next Wednesday, March 2.

The Toronto protest has been dubbed "Ontario Farmers' One Voice March."

Rural landowner groups are planning a protest at Queen's Park March 7.

OFA President Ron Bonnett said many farmers are desperate about their financial situations and the treatment they have received from successive provincial governments. He noted busloads of farmers, their families and the people who do business in the agriculture sector will be making their way to the grounds of the Ontario legislature.

"These people know if farmers fail and disappear from the rural landscape, there will be nothing left to keep them in business," Bonnett stated in a commentary released Thursday.

OFA's board of directors voted unanimously Jan. 19 not to take part in the Feb. 4 protest, noting the federation does not have issues with truckers and motorists who would be inconvenienced by such protests. However, the board was quick to note it supports farmers and understands their frustration.

Nutrient management and water regulations, combined with price declines and the BSE crisis, are taking their toll on rural Ontario.

"For months, all farming organizations have been telling government that its growing list of legislation and regulations is threatening the viability of agriculture," said Bonnett.

In a recent commentary, Ventnor-area farmer and OFA Vice-President Geri Kamenz said the time has come for rural Ontario to come together and push the government for legislative change. "Agriculture's engine is being starved of fuel and choked by ill-conceived regulations and will soon sputter and die on the side of the economic highway unless our governments show some understanding of the problems and decide to take action," Kamenz stated.

Bonnett indicated the provincial government is proud of its recently-announced $400-million investment in Casino Windsor, a move aimed at maintaining 4,300 jobs. "Ontario's agri-food sector provides jobs for about 650,000 people, so we believe the province can justify a wise investment in agriculture," he stated.

THIS WEEK

Today's open house is all about planning

PRESCOTT ­ The public is invited to provide input into downtown revitalization and Prescott's official plan review.

An open house will take place today from 5 to 8 pm in the community room on the second floor of town hall. Display boards will be set up in the room; visitors can drop in, take a look around and have their say on the plans.

The IBI Group is the consultant hired by the town to work on both planning exercises. Most of the funding for the downtown project comes from the Eastern Ontario Development Fund. Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation is also contributing to the revitalization study.

United Way collects more than $802,000

BROCKVILLE ­ The Leeds and Grenville United Way's 2004 campaign raised more than $802,000, it was announced Thursday.

Last year's fundraising drive totalled $802,464.48. The final figure was revealed at the organization's volunteer appreciation lunch. The target for the campaign was $785,000.

Companies and individuals were honoured for their spirit and contributions in 2004. Among the honourees was Nitrochem of Maitland, which was one of four winners of the Campaign 2004 Spirit Award.

The United Way of Leeds and Grenville funds 25 agencies in the community.

Local chamber banquet tickets now on sale

PRESCOTT ­ Tickets for the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce awards dinner are now on sale.

The event will be held Monday, March 7 at the Prescott Golf Club. In addition to dinner and the presentation of business, volunteer and youth awards, there will be a silent auction.

Social hour starts at 6 pm, followed by dinner at 7. The guest speaker will be Barry Bekkedam.

Tickets can be purchased at the Royal Bank, TD Canada Trust, Bank of Montreal, Young's of Prescott, House of Flowers and Ken Durand's office on George Street. Seating is limited; ticket sales will be cut off next week.

Donated items for the silent auction are to be dropped off at the Royal Bank or Tan&Tone by Friday, March 4. For more information, contact Sharon Spychi at 925-5700 or Lisa Smith at 925-4441.

Yuk Yuks is Saturday

PRESCOTT ­ The comedy of Yuk Yuks is set for this Saturday, Feb. 26 at the Prescott Legion. Doors open at 7 pm; the Kinsmen club fundraiser begins at 8 pm.

Building Bridges to Better Business

Event in Prescott gives local business community chance to share information

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ There was plenty of connecting at the Bridges to Better Business event held last Wednesday at the Prescott Golf Club.

Despite heavy wet snow that created poor driving conditions, more than 70 people ­ including 55 registrants, a few walk-ins as well as trade show participants and support staff ­ attended the event.

Bridges to Better Business was presented by the 1000 Islands Entrepreneurship Centre in conjunction with the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce and Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation.

Event organizer and entrepreneurship centre manager Susan Fournier said she was delighted with the response; this was the first time the Bridges format was presented in Prescott.

The program offered a mix of networking and information-sharing opportunities. In addition to the trade show and keynote speaker, there were four roundtable discussions. The topics and facilitators were: Tourism (Susan Fournier); Human Resources (Linda Raby, Employment and Education Centre): Marketing and Media (Dave White, St. Lawrence College); and Women in Business (Barbara Williams, www. EntreWomen.ca). Fournier noted she was taking the place of Jan Bonhomme, who was unable to attend.

The keynote speaker was Kriska Transportation President Mark Seymour, who talked about the value of having a business plan.

Prescott-based Kriska, founded in 1978 by Mark's father Ken (who died two years ago), now has about 450 employees. Mark stated when he joined his father's company in 1983, the fundamental principles were honesty, hard work and committing to workers and suppliers. It became obvious those principles would not be enough as the company grew bigger, according to Seymour.

"What we didn't have was a strategic plan," he said.

Kriska hired KPMG to do just that. Seymour noted he overcame his apprehension about asking for assistance.

Seymour said people in business cannot afford to be swayed by distractions and diversions. Although companies must be prepared to adapt to change, they should also stay focused and have "continuous movement in the direction that's been set."

"You have to make people accountable," said Seymour.

Companies should celebrate small wins on a regular basis, he added.

The high turnout on a morning when weather and road conditions were not good confirms Fournier's belief there is an appetite for useful and pertinent events such as Bridges to Better Business.

Chamber of Commerce President Lisa Smith said participants made "very positive comments" about the event. She would like to see another full-day program offered this fall.

The entrepreneurship centre is planning to offer a series of seminars on specific topics of interest throughout Leeds and Grenville as demand warrants beginning this spring.

Sponsors of the Feb. 16 event included The Prescott Journal/Leeds and Grenville Business News, Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, Canada Ontario Business Service Centres, CHUM Radio Brockville, The Recorder and Times and EMC.

Feedback from participants in Prescott will be provided to the Canada Ontario Business Service Centre, which compiles a report on Bridges events held across Ontario.

Town to provide letter of credit to 2005 Shakespeare festival

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Town council has agreed for a second straight year to provide a letter of credit to the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival.

Council voted Monday to authorize the mayor and CAO to sign a letter of credit for $12,000. The move will enable the festival to hire unionized actors for its 2005 production of Twelfth Night to be staged this July at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre.

The vote was 4-1 in favour of the motion. Councillors Jo-Anne Beckstead, Suzanne Dodge, Chuck Street and Sue O'Hanlon (who served as deputy mayor and chaired the meeting in place of Mayor Robert Lawn) supported the resolution. Councillor Nancy Lane voted against the motion. The mayor and Councillor Bob Pelda were absent.

Lane said she supports the Shakespeare festival 100 per cent, but she expressed concerns about the fact the town gave a loan of $4,000 to the festival last year when it was unable to cover actors' pay at the end of the 2004 season. The loan prevented last year's letter of credit from the town from being needed.

The councillor said she has not heard of repayment plans for that loan and would rather have the matter referred back to the finance committee.

Councillor and committee chair Suzanne Dodge pointed out the finance committee had already discussed the matter and was recommending approval of the letter of credit.

Dodge went on to say the success of the festival is very important to the town. In noting the enthusiasm of volunteers and some of the actors who want to come back for the 2005 season, the councillor said the letter of credit is "an excellent way to support this group."

Although Chuck Street voted in favour of the motion, he noted his own discomfort with the feeling council was being put in a corner by the request. However, Street added this will be a make-or-break year for the festival.

As for the festival's request for an operating grant from the municipality, Dodge said it would not be considered until the festival can present a complete financial picture which includes a plan for repayment of last year's loan. Ken Durand, the chairman of the festival's board of directors, is scheduled to make a presentation to the finance committee next Monday night.

Town officials also reiterated the need for the municipality to adopt a policy to deal with grant requests.

In addition to the letter of credit, the town gave the Shakespeare festival $6,000 in 2004.

Seniors should be aware of phone fraud: OPP

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

This age-old sentiment was echoed by Grenville OPP Constable Gary Sluytman at a presentation last Wednesday at the Mayfield Retirement Residence in Prescott.

Sluytman emphasized the importance of seniors being very aware of attempts by telemarketers to get their money. "Be very careful when giving information over the phone," he stressed. "Never give out your credit card or bank information."

Sluytman also mentioned banks do not call people to ask for their banking information. "(Banks will) mail you, or ask you to come in person," he stated.

Sluytman also cautioned older people to be firm when dealing with telemarketers. "You have to be firm with them; they will use high pressure tactics," he said. "They know seniors are polite. Just be firm and say no."

In addition, said Sluytman, seniors must be aware that if they agree to a contract to buy things such as vacuum cleaners or magazines, they legally have 10 days to break the contract if they have second thoughts about the item they've agreed to buy.

"You should ask yourself if you want or need the product," he said, adding people should also comparison shop before agreeing to buy an item sold door-to-door or over the phone. "(People should) compare price and quality," he said. Sluytman also left copies of a letter at the Mayfield residence which can be used to cancel a contract.

The crime of identity theft - according to Sluytman, one of the fastest growing crimes in North America, was also referenced in his presentation. To help ensure identities are not stolen, Sluytman cautioned seniors against taking identification - such as birth certificates - with them unless they absolutely need them. "Keep personal information at home," he said.

He also cautioned seniors about elder abuse. "Four per cent of Canadian older adults are abused," he stated. Sluytman added elder abuse can take several forms, including physical, sexual, and psychological abuse.

Sluytman also said there are currently no laws in relation to elder abuse. To prevent being victimized by elder abuse, he suggested seniors keep a network of friends, maintain their own phone, and ensure pension cheques are deposited in their own accounts. In addition, he stated older people should discuss future plans with their lawyer, physician or family.

In addition to his talk at the Mayfield, Sluytman also gave a presentation to residents of 275 Water St. last Wednesday morning.

Rural landowners group to meet

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ The next meeting of the Leeds & Grenville Landowners Association will take place next Wednesday, March 2 at 7:30 pm at the Lions Hall in Elgin.

Rezoning issues facing Augusta Township and how they could affect other municipalities will be among the topics up for discussion at the meeting. Also on the agenda is the March 9 rally at Queen's Park.

For more information on the association, contact Jacqueline Fennell at 658-5876.

Citizen digging for its roots in old Prescott newspapers

PRESCOTT ­ A writer and researcher is seeking copies of the Prescott newspaper believed to be the foundation of the Ottawa Citizen.

Seven editions of The Packet were published in the fall of 1844, according to Doug Fischer. The publisher then moved to Bytown and started what became The Citizen. Fischer, who is digging into the paper's past as part of its 160th anniversary, hopes someone might have a copy of The Packet and is unaware of its connection to the Ottawa daily.

Anyone with information on the subject can call Fischer at (613) 726-5834 or send an e-mail to dfischer@thecitizen.canwest.com.

Federal youth job programs are available

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ Federal youth employment programs are now accepting applications, Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown reports.

Young Canada Works is a program through Heritage Canada that creates jobs for students and young graduates and gives them a chance to put skills to use and to build career experience. There are four summer job programs for students and two internship programs for university and college graduates who are unemployed or underemployed.

Human Resources and Skills Development Canada offers Summer Work Experience, a major component of which is the Summer Career Placements program. It provides wage subsidies to employers for creation of job opportunities relating to career interests and fields of study for students between the ages of 15 and 30.

The deadline to apply for most programs is April 1. For more information, call 1-800-935-5555 or visit the HRSDC office on Centre Street (above the post office) in Prescott.

Music and words create different kind of encounter

PRESCOTT ­ The next Fort Town Concert Association presentation will take place Friday, March 4 at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church.

Memories of China is billed as a different kind of encounter between music and words. Actor Jean-François Blanchard's character travels to China in 1934 and meets a young Manchurian woman who serves as his guide.

Playing the pipa and guzheng (a Chinese zither), Liu Fang evokes a bygone era and invites the audience to take an exploratory voyage into the future.

"Liu Fang's art, tributary of a millennium-old tradition, has been enriched over the years by techniques and tones that closely resemble the various lute repertoires, an instrument that accompanied many caravans along the Silk Road," a promotional release states.

Special ticket prices are available for students; admission is free for children under the age of 12.

The March 4 concert is sponsored by the Town of Prescott.

For more information, call 925-5050.

The Desjardins concert series is presented by the Fort Town association in conjunction with Jeunesses Musicales of Canada.

Chamber of Commerce considers grants for downtown fix-ups

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

JOHNSTOWN ­ The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce should provide grants to downtown property owners who spruce up their buildings, according to one of its directors.

Bill Pakeman made a pitch to the Chamber at its monthly lunch meeting Thursday at the Bridgeview Restaurant. Pakeman suggested the Chamber give $1,000 to a property owner who has obtained an interest-free downtown revitalization loan from the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF). He told his fellow directors a viable and attractive downtown core is imperative for the entire business community.

Pakeman said it is time for the Chamber of Commerce to show initiative and "put our financial purses where our mouth is." He also challenged the Town of Prescott to offer those same property owners $2,000 over two years in the form of reduced taxes.

Although town officials at the meeting noted tax incentives are not normally permitted, Mayor Robert Lawn said the municipality could waive some tax payments if the downtown were to be declared an improvement area by council. Lawn went on to note this is the best opportunity in many years to revitalize downtown Prescott. A study to that effect is being undertaken by the municipality.

"It's up to us," the mayor said. "No one is going to do this for us."

Pakeman withdrew his motion for the Chamber to provide grants. The subject will be discussed by the Chamber's finance committee.

It was unknown at the meeting how many property owners will receive EODF loans. The deadline to apply has passed.

Renaming of Douglas Drive to be made official in April

PRESCOTT ­ A ceremony to mark the renaming of Douglas Drive is being planned for April 4, according to Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller.

The renaming issue was raised at the Feb. 7 council meeting. Councillor Nancy Lane gave notice she would put forward a motion at the next meeting asking council to form a sub-committee to review why the renaming had not been implemented.

Council passed a resolution last May to change the name of Douglas Drive to Fort Town Drive.

In a written report to council Monday, Haller notes the "...project slid to a back burner for several months as we tried to find a template or process for conducting such a name change." The CAO goes on to note he has contacted the Leeds and Grenville housing office and request it notify tenants of the change. Letters to a long list of government agencies and companies advising them of the change have been drafted.

New street signs have been ordered and are to be unveiled April 4, Haller adds.

At Monday's council meeting, Lane thanked Haller for the list of actions and the "flurry of activity" that occurred since she gave notice of motion. As a result of those actions, Lane opted not to proceed with her motion.

Lane brought up the renaming issue at the beginning of the council term. Adopting a new name was seen as a step in dealing with the negative perception of Douglas Drive on the part of some people in Prescott as well as outside the community, according to Lane.

Event honours festival volunteers

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Volunteers are an integral part of the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival, and their contributions were recognized at a volunteer appreciation event held Saturday afternoon at town hall.

"Going into our third season wouldn't be possible without all of you," festival chairman Ken Durand told a crowd of more than 30 volunteers at the event.

"It's great to see so many of you out."

Durand added more than 100 people volunteered for the festival's 2004 presentation of The Comedie of Errors. He said volunteers did everything, from sewing costumes to set construction to ticket selling.

He also encouraged more people to volunteer for the company's 2005 season. "The more (volunteers) means it lightens the load for everyone else," stated Durand. At the appreciation event, festival volunteers were presented with certificates recognizing their contributions.

The festival's Artistic Director, Deborah Smith, echoed Durand's sentiments, saying "It's been an amazing journey over the last two years... it wouldn't have worked without all of you."

Smith also took the opportunity to actively call for the people who volunteered in the past to do so again, saying "I need every one of you." In particular, she stated the festival needs places to house the actors who perform in Prescott.

Smith also took the opportunity to offer a glimpse into the 2005 season of the festival, saying the play which has been selected is Twelfth Night. "It's comedic, sad, (it has) fools, lovers, cross-dressers."

She went on to say the play will be staged in an art-deco, 1920's fashion, with costumes "inspired by The Great Gatsby." Smith also mentioned "(It's a) play about love, waiting for lost love" and Twelfth Night also deals with the theme of emancipation of women. The 2005 season is slated to go from July 1­23 at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre on Prescott's waterfront.

"I think it (volunteering) solidifies your place in a community," stated Dawn Rutenberg, who volunteered to help with costumes for the festival in 2004 and expects to help again in 2005.

At the event, the festival was also presented with a $5,000 cheque from Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation.

"It (the Shakespeare festival) is so good for the local community, to bring more people into the area," stated Renata Kimmerly, chair of GCFDC. "We're 100 per cent behind it - fully committed," she stated.

Durand added he is also enthusiastic about the upcoming season and stated he hopes the festival doesn't receive the poor weather it got last year.

Food bank AGM set for March 2

PRESCOTT ­ The annual general meeting of Food For All Food Bank will take place next Wednesday, March 2 at 7 pm on the second floor of town hall on Dibble Street West.

The not-for-profit organization formed in 2002 serves residents of Augusta, Prescott and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. The food bank is based on Henry Street West in Prescott and is open Tuesday to Thursday.

The food bank also has a Cardinal satellite office in the basement of the library building on County Road 2; the Cardinal location is open Mondays.

Each of the three municipal councils in South Grenville has been asked to contribute $1,600 to help the food bank cover its operating costs in 2005.

OPP ­ TOWNSHIPS NEWS

Generator removed from van

AUGUSTA ­ The theft of a generator from a van parked at a Merwin Lane business was reported Feb. 17. It is believed the theft occurred between Feb. 12-17. No further details were available. Constable Large is investigating. Anyone with information is asked to contact Grenville County OPP (925-4221) or Crime Stoppers (1-800-222-8477).

Motorbike thief is described

EDWARDSBURGH ­ Constable Large is investigating the theft of a motorcycle from a County Road 22 home.

A female occupant of the residence opened a garage door and found a man loading a Yamaha 250 Moto Cross bike into the back of a silver Dodge Caravan. She described the man as middle-aged with a thick brown mustache and wearing a black ball cap and green jacket. The investigation is ongoing.

Girl admits taking credit card

CARDINAL ­ A 14-year-old girl admitted taking a credit card from a Maple Avenue home, according to the OPP. The theft was reported Feb. 19 and was believed to have been taken on Feb. 14 and used on the 14th and 15th. The investigation by Constable Morrissette is ongoing.

Snowmobiler fails roadside test

EDWARDSBURGH ­ While on patrol on Cedar Grove Road Feb. 20 at 10:20 pm, Constable Foley observed a snowmobile travelling at a slow speed in the ditch. The constable activated the roof lights on his cruiser, and the snowmobile stopped. He detected the odour of alcohol on the breath of the driver, a 34-year-old Iroquois man. He registered a fail in a roadside test, was arrested and taken in for a breath test.

The man was charged with driving while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit.

Someone tries to steal tractor

EDWARDSBURGH ­ The attempted theft of a white Freightliner tractor from the 730 Truck Stop is being investigated by Constable Blanchette. It is believed the incident occurred the night of Feb. 19-20. The ignition had been smashed.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPP detachment in Prescott.

RIDE checks are a possibility any time of the day or night

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Grenville County OPP officers conducted several RIDE checks in Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Friday and Saturday.

More than 1,400 vehicles were checked. A number of criminal and provincial offence charges were laid, according to a police news release.

At a check conducted on County Road 15 in Augusta, a passenger in a Ford Ranger pick-up truck was found to be in possession of an ExpressVu receiver and pirated satellite card. Both items were seized. A 35-year-old Augusta man was charged with possession of a device to obtain telecommunications illegally.

The police checks also produced seizure of a small quantity of marijuana, a liquor charge and warnings about minor infractions.

The public is reminded RIDE checks are not limited to the Christmas season; they could be conducted at any time of the day.

Anyone who observes what he or she believes is impaired driving is asked to contact police immediately.

Buses to leave early Wednesday

GRENVILLE COUNTY ­ The Grenville Federation of Agriculture (GFA) is planning to send a series of buses to the March 2 protest at Queen's Park in Toronto.

There will be three pick-ups in Grenville County: one at the A.M. Barr Arena at Kemptville College at 6 am, a second at the Park and Ride on County Road 21 at Highway 416 near Spencerville at 6:15 am, and a third at Angelo's Restaurant in Johnstown at 6:30 am.

The buses are expected to arrive in Toronto in time for the kickoff to the protest late Wednesday morning.

GFA Director Barry Thompson stated it's important for people attending the rally to contact the GFA before the day of the protest because the organization needs to know how many people need seats on the buses.

"It's important we know the names (of people attending the protest)," he stated.

He added there is no charge for the bus ride, and people attending the protest should remember to dress for an outdoor event. Thompson also said attendance at the protest is not limited to federation members.

The action at Queen's Park is expected to be held until 2 pm, at which time the buses will return to the Grenville area.

Those interested in attending the "One Voice March" are encouraged to call Thompson at (613) 258-4567 to register.

Open house set for condos

PRESCOTT ­ Herb Willer's new condominium development located at the corner of King Street East and Russell Street will be the site of an open house this Saturday, Feb. 26 from 11 am to 3 pm..

Free dinner today

PRESCOTT ­ A Master's Hands community supper will take place today (Wednesday, Feb. 23) from 5 to 6:15 pm at Seaway Christian Church.

The dinner for the less fortunate is free of charge.

Laptop and tools are stolen from van

PRESCOTT ­ Members of the Grenville County OPP detachment responded to 58 calls for service in the Prescott patrol zone last week.

Constable Wright is investigating a hit-and-run collision that occurred Feb. 13. A woman parked a red 2002 Ford Focus on James Street at George Street and attended a church function from 10 am to 1 pm. When the woman returned, she noticed the car was angled from the curb and had not been left that way when it was parked. The next day, she noticed damage to the left rear corner. Damage was not serious; the investigation continues.

On Feb. 18, a theft from a van parked at a Henry Street business was reported. The theft likely occurred sometime between Feb. 15 and the 18th. The missing items include a Compaq laptop computer (value of $1,500), Mastercraft reciprocating saw ($120), Craftsman 19-volt drill ($300), Mastercraft 18-volt drill ($150) and two tool boxes with tools. The vehicle was not damaged. Constable Moe Morrissette is investigating.

Constable Foley is investigating a fraud case at the Ultramar station on Edward Street. On Feb. 20 at about 3:30 am, a man tried to use what are believed to be stolen credit cards to buy $75 worth of gasoline. Several cards were rejected. The last card used was accepted. The attendant obtained licence plate information; an investigation revealed the suspect was involved in similar activities in the Toronto area. A security tape was seized; charges are pending.

At a Feb. 18 RIDE check on Edward Street, it was determined a 31-year-old Augusta man operating a black 1998 Chevrolet was prohibited from operating a motor vehicle. The man was charged with the Criminal Code offence of driving while prohibited as well as having an unauthorized plate and a vehicle with no insurance. The investigating officer is Constable Jones.

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

Fish and game club derby to be held Saturday

JOHNSTOWN - The Grenville Fish and Game Club will hold its 2005 Pike & Perch Ice Fishing Derby this Saturday, Feb. 26.

The event will be held at Johnstown Marina at Elevator Bay.

The derby will run from 6 am to 4 pm, with weigh-ins starting at 8 am.

Weigh-ins will be held every two hours. A prize for the heaviest fish weighed will be awarded every two hours; there will also be a hidden weigh prize.

There will also be a bonus for the heaviest fish of the day and a live release draw prize. There is an entry fee.

For children 14 years of age and under, there will be a free perch derby.

Free hot chocolate will be provided to those who attend.

For more information on this fish and game club event, contact Mac Peterson at 925-4545.

Renovated St. John's church has a modern feel in a historic setting

Changes result in major savings in heating costs

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The extensive renovations of St John's Anglican Church in Prescott are now completed, and Graham Cudlipp (rector's warden of the church) couldn't be happier.

"It (the renovation) went extremely well," stated Cudlipp. "I've heard nothing but praise (for the new construction.)"

Cudlipp added members of the congregation are particularly pleased with the fact that the renovation maintained the original alter and worship space. "It (the church) has a nice modern feeling but maintains the history," he stated.

Cudlipp also was quick to point out the construction went well, with 95 per cent of the renovations done in time for the Christmas Eve service which attracted 170 people. The renovations were officially signed off "a couple of weeks ago" by Paul and Kay Jollymore, congregation members who acted as project managers for the revivification.

The extensive renovations of the church building began last summer. They involved repurposing the 600-seat "nave" (sanctuary) of the church to include washrooms, a kitchen, offices, and a hall area. In addition, a whole portion of the church (including a parish hall, chapel, vestibule, and offices) has been mothballed and is no longer being used. "We're still waiting for the spirit to tell us what to do," stated Cudlipp.

He added some of the suggestions put forth have included selling the surplus space for condos or offices. He also stated the church has not yet formed an official committee to deal with what to do with its unused space.

Debbie Hayes, people's warden for the church, added she too has heard nothing but approval for the renovations from the congregation. "I haven't heard a bad thing. Everyone is enthused," she stated.

Specifically, Hayes mentioned "(the) ladies like their new kitchen, and a couple of parishioners have commented on the comfort of the pews." The current church pews date from the 1950s and were used in the chapel and choir area of the nave prior to the renovation.

One of the best aspects of the renovated church, according to Hayes, is it is completely accessible to the handicapped. "(The accessibility) aids fellowship. Now more people come out for it." "Fellowship" refers to the coffee and cookies the church offers to members following each service.

Hayes also said she hopes the church renovation will encourage young families to come to church services.

"(We hope to) attract people who might appreciate a more modern outlook," she mentioned.

Hayes also spoke to the delight of congregation members once they heard how much less the church was paying for heat and electricity. She stated the church is realizing a significant savings almost immediately. She added the first financial statement released since the renovation indicated the church is paying less than half the amount for heat that it paid prior to the renovations. She mentioned the church paid $2,523.21 for the month of January in 2004, compared to $896.51 for heating in the same period of 2005. The church also noticed a savings in electricity for the same period.

Now the renovation is done, the church has to deal with $200,000 in debt. Of that amount, it's estimated $160,000 is renovation-related. Other debts stem from the church falling behind in its apportionment payments (the common mission and ministry payment) to the Anglican Diocese of Ontario, as well as expenditures relating to heating and electricity of the now-mothballed parish hall.

The bulk of this debt is expected to be covered by the sale of the church's "Sexton's House" a stone home close to the church which it has been renting. This home is currently on the market for $119,000.

The remainder of the $200,000 debt is expected to be taken care of through fundraising and capital appeals for funds from congregation members.

OPP will focus on seat belts

SMITHS FALLS ­ People are dying needlessly because they do not wear seat belts, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.

Thirty per cent of fatal crashes investigated by the OPP in Eastern Ontario are a result of victims not wearing seat belts. Reducing seat belt-related deaths is one of the main strategies of the OPP's 2005 business plan. Officers will focus on increased seat belt use, a police news release stated.

"Through education and enforcement, the OPP will be reminding motorists buckling up is a must; it's the law," the release stated. "Saving your life is cheaper for your family than losing you... permanently."

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"They know seniors are polite. Just be firm and say no."

OPP Constable Gary Sluytman, suggesting how to respond to high-pressure telemarketers

Editor's Notebook

Politics goes both ways

So the provincial government says no to additional work at the St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre and no to new casinos and racetrack slots facilities. A short time later, the Liberal government outlines a $400-million expansion of Casino Windsor, which just happens to be in a community represented by two provincial cabinet ministers.

It did not take long for Leeds-Grenville MPP and Leader of the Official Opposition, Bob Runciman, to blast the government for investing in a Liberal-friendly area at the expense of other communities and of important services.

We agree with Runciman's assertion the Liberals' recent move smacks of so-called pork-barrel politics. We also suggest the residents of Windsor are happy money will be spent in their community ­ just like they were in Brockville and Gananoque when Runciman was in power and millions were spent on a new casino, new courthouse, new correctional and treatment facility and expanded hospital.

No matter where you go, people want their elected officials to get as much for their community as possible ­ whether it is in Prescott or Windsor. Bob Runciman would not be doing his job as official opposition leader in the Ontario legislature if he were to give the Liberals a free pass.

However, the rhetoric could probably be turned down a couple of notches. Here is a statement by Runciman which appeared in a Feb. 15 news release: "The government is starving hospitals, laying off nurses, fighting with doctors and facing teacher strikes and the most important investment they can come up with is to spend $400 million to expand a casino."

Except for the last part, the Liberals could have used the exact same wording a few years ago to describe what the Progressive Conservatives were doing while they were at the helm.

Needless to say, things changed after the Oct. 2003 provincial election. Instead of having Runciman make "good news" announcements for the riding the way he did as a member of the governing party, the office of Leona Dombrowsky (Liberal MPP in Frontenac-Hastings-Lennox & Addington and regional minister for Eastern Ontario) distributes the information to media outlets. A similar dynamic is in place in Ottawa; the Liberal government is reluctant to have Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown (a Conservative) make a funding announcement because he is a member of the opposition.

The way things are going at this point, though, the situation will be a lot less complicated after the 2007 provincial election when Mr. Runciman or his successor takes his or her seat on the other side of the aisle at Queen's Park.

Tim Ruhnke

A good case of Ranger fever has struck South Grenville

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS by David Dickenson

While I normally use this column to vent frustrations and, in the process, receive letters of complaint from people who claim my opinion is wrong or has offended them, I choose to go another route this week.

Once again I have to talk about the South Grenville Jr. B Rangers and their amazing season, which may be the best in the club's history.

They are currently down 2-1 in their best-of-seven playoff series with the Westport Rideaus, but proved Saturday night they are very much alive and a sleeping giant which has just been awakened.

Over the course of the day Saturday, I talked to numerous people around the area, and first on their topics of conversation all day was the Rangers "big game tonight." As someone who has watched and followed Jr. A and Jr. B hockey from a young age, I have to admit it was nice to see the enthusiasm in the region over a club that has played its heart out all season.

Normally, you see the regular faces at the games every week, but on Saturday, elbow to elbow with the regulars were people I haven't seen much of at the rinks. It was great to see the rink that packed, I never expected to see that and it was quite a sight.

The Cardinal and District Community Centre has a capacity of near 900 people, and on Saturday the stands were full, people along the glass were lined up two deep and I even had my regular spot stolen on a few occasions.

For a team which, in all honesty, has been a perennial cellar dweller for most of the past ten years, this year's team has been a nice change and the club has played exciting hockey and showed themselves to be a class organization making sure the players are living up to what is expected of them off the ice as well.

The players come to practice, work hard at their games, but are also expected to be good citizens in the community, interact with the crowd and spread their love of the game. If anyone were to have seen the line of little kids along the boards waiting to high-five the players when they came out to the ice, they would see the players are doing just that and more.

If there is a flu bug to be spread in the area, Ranger fever is the one I would want.

The players deserve the good season, the sponsors deserve the good season, and most importantly the fans in South Grenville deserve it. It has been a long time coming, and I hope it's here to stay.

I can't wait until the next home game Saturday night at 7:15 pm to see the packed house and all the fans who have come out to cheer on the big hits and good hockey.

Come out and show your true blue, white, and red Ranger spirit.

Newell to build modern factory near railway tracks: 1955

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Feb. 24, 1955

* The Newell Manufacturing Company has announced it will build a $200,000 factory near the CN railway tracks east of Sophia Street. The new plant will replace the existing brick building on King Street West that has been in operation since 1920. The brick structure will be sold, according to company Vice-President and Treasurer Judson Newell. The company has been adding to the list of curtain hardware it manufactures.

* John P. Kelso, chief collector of customs at the Port of Prescott, has marked 40 years of service. The Roebuck native joined the Department of Inland Revenue in 1915. At the age of 56, Kelso has no plans to retire even after four decades of working for the government.

* Carol Kingston, 17, of Prescott won the Macdonald Royal High School Essay Contest open to young people in Quebec and the Ottawa Valley. Carol and her mother, Mrs. Elmer Kingston, received an expenses-paid trip to Macdonald College in Ste. Anne de Bellevue near Montreal. "Teaching" was the subject of the winning essay.

Feb. 27, 1985

* Terry Byrd, 19, has received the second annual Student Volunteer Award sponsored by the Toronto Dominion Bank. The Johnstown resident was the driving force behind the Progressive Conservative youth movement in South Grenville.

There are two Ontario Youth Award recipients from Prescott. Joanne Pillar and Sandy Owles are among 500 Ontarians to receive the award, the province's major project as part of International Youth Year.

* Sherrye's Restaurant on old Highway 16 has been broken into for a fourth time this year.

Among the items taken were cash, cigarettes, liquor, beer, meat and snack foods. The Ontario Provincial Police reported it had no suspects.

* At a brief ceremony last week, Gordon Lay signed a three-year contract to become the new pro at the Prescott Golf Club. Lay is the first pro at the Prescott club in seven years.

The president of the club is Claude Labranche; Joe Doyle is pro shop director.

* The Daniels' Hotel team has won the Prescott Gentlemen's Hockey League pennant for 1984-85. The team clinched the regular season title by defeating Mr. Grocer 5-2. Al Joudoin scored twice in the Daniels' win.

NHL devastation goes far beyond just the hot dog vendors

FROM THE OTHER SIDE BY Jeffrey Morris

Because I spent most of the last decade working in hockey at the corporate level, I have been asked about the lockout often. Yes, our family life and home were collateral damage as we were legally forced out of the U.S. But we are not alone. Sometimes people are shocked when they ask me how many jobs I think we lost. I tell them 10,000, and that number might be low.

It's a jaw-dropping number and maybe Gary Bettman and Bob Goodenow will laugh about their little squabble some day. I won't. Neither will anyone else whose lives got in their selfish and ego-driven paths.

The most common thing you hear regarding the lockout's impact is "what about the person selling hot dogs at the stadium?" They, and many team employees, have been laid off. So have restaurant, bar and hotel workers. They are on the front lines of this mess. But there are thousands of people the public may not see that have all lost their jobs too. When we learned that the special education teacher in Washington who worked one-on-one with our son would lose her job as soon as we were turfed out of the U.S., we realized just how much of a trickle-down effect this really had.

For the past four years I had been the VP of Marketing at Pacific Trading Cards, Inc. in the Seattle area. Most of our business was tied to the NHL, and we knew for a long time that the 2004-05 season would bring trouble. The plan was that we could, as my boss used to say, "hunker down" and resume business at a scaled back level and survive for at least a year. We, like everyone, didn't see this lasting beyond Christmas, but it did.

In late May, Ted Saskin, the NHLPA's front man in the negotiations and with the media during the process, visited us in Seattle and informed us that the NHLPA was prepared to sit out 18 months, and he told us that no marketing or licensing contracts would be extended or renewed when expired. Because almost every NHLPA licensing deal out there is a one-year deal that comes up for renewal annually, they were in effect terminating their merchandising business and would rebuild it as they saw fit when a deal was reached. The NHL, as was often the case, was trying to help us as a partner. But the players weren't.

The players believed the NHL would come off the salary cap and settle on a luxury tax, as baseball did. Their plan was to wait it out. This was emphasized further when we learned that the Major League Baseball Players Association was actively involved in advising and supporting the NHLPA. Baseball did not want to be the only sport without a cap.

I sided more with the league than the players, but it was evident a cap would not work. The renegade high payroll teams like the Rangers, Red Wings and Leafs are the most profitable teams in the league, and the lowest payroll teams are losing the most money. Therefore, a cap makes no sense. There are also regional cost and quality of living factors. A player making $1 million in Nashville would have a much different life than a player making $1 million in New Jersey.

At Pacific, I was one of several dozen people who lost a job as our company was forced to shut down. Most companies did not shut down, as hockey was a small percentage of their business, but the hockey people were all let go.

Several hundred people we knew of directly lost their jobs. The trading card industry, bobble head and figurine companies, clothing manufacturers, fantasy hockey stats and software people, and the giant video game companies all got hit hard. Even the lottery corporations and charities have been affected. All of the suppliers and vendors got hit hard. Our styrofoam guy, our cardboard suppliers, our foil stamp and UV coating suppliers, and countless others all lost their jobs. McDonald's had several million dollars in revenue tied into a project we did with them annually. That money, along with the jobs and contracts tied to it, are gone. Several hundred sports collectibles stores and fan shops have closed, along with all of their jobs. E-Bay hockey sales of all licensed items, worth millions, have all but dried up, eliminating hundreds of jobs. Video game development, production, packaging, trucking and sales reps lost their jobs. There are sales in the stores that employees at places like Blockbuster and Zellers and Wal-Mart are tied to. All of those jobs are gone, and many will never come back.

Both sides have complete disregard for the game, the fans, and our culture. They proved that by the roller coaster ride they put everyone on last weekend. When hockey returns, the fans will come back. But the economic destruction that their mutual greed has caused is inexcusable.

We were lucky enough to land on our feet and we are rebuilding our lives in what is, to our children, a new country. Many weren't so lucky, and I doubt that the suits in New York or Toronto could care less.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Columnist's recent rant provokes response

The Editor;

Why is it that those who proclaim so loudly the message of "tolerance" are so quick to ridicule or insult by name-calling those who hold positions contrary to theirs?

I have declined to write in response to Jeffrey Morris' columns in the past, although I have often found his tone to be dismissive and rude towards his adversaries, even at those times when I have been in basic agreement with his position. However, his Feb. 16 rant against the "Homophobes" has provoked me to respond.

It is disturbing to observe how the term "homophobic," technically referring to an unreasonable fear, has come to be applied to anyone who questions the celebration of the homosexual lifestyle, whether their concerns are based upon medical, psychological or moral grounds.

I would have appreciated some evidence that Mr. Morris had researched a little further the remarks allegedly made by Dr. James Dobson of Focus on the Family regarding the "We Are Family" video and programme. It was, in fact, a journalist's report on Dr. Dobson's address that singled out "SpongeBob SquarePants" as the focus of the objections to the video. Dr. Dobson did not at any time accuse "SpongeBob" or "Barney" or any other cartoon character of promoting homosexuality, nor did he challenge the morality of the video per se.

His concern was with the "We Are Family" package as a whole, a package intended for use with elementary school children from Kindergarten up. Materials contained therein encourage discussion of sexual attitudes and behaviours which, whether homosexual or heterosexual, many parents would consider inappropriate for children of such an age and which are most certainly aimed at promotion of full acceptance of homosexual behaviour.

The "Tolerance Pledge" may seem innocent enough, but it sets out an undefined category of "sexual identity", which one might assume has to do with equating ones sexual orientation, preferences or behaviours with who one is. Many who would not be troubled by the insertion of "homosexual" or even "bisexual" here would be if, for example, "Pedophile" were used instead ­ yet surely this too is a "sexual identity"?

Dr. Dobson and the Focus on the Family organization may not share your viewpoint on certain matters, Mr. Morris, but they are serious Christians who exercise care in their research and are motivated by a deep love and respect for all of those whom God has made and for whom Christ died.

The Reverend Doug Hayman
Johnstown

MP swamped by input on same-sex marriage

The Editor;

One of the methods used by members of parliament to measure public opinion in their riding is through the correspondence they receive.

In my short time as the MP for Leeds-Grenville, I have appreciated the input I receive from residents in the riding.

Your opinions matter to me.

I and my office staff endeavor to answer each and every e-mail, card, letter and fax we receive.

To that end, we are currently responding to several hundred pieces of correspondence each week on the same-sex marriage issue. The response to this issue has been huge and at times overwhelming.

While we are attempting to respond to everyone who has sent mail on this issue, some of the names and addresses on the cards that have been sent are missing or we are having difficulty reading them.

If you discover that your neighbour has received a letter from us and you didn't, it isn't because we don't appreciate hearing from you... it is simply because we were unsure of either your name or address.

If you are sending us correspondence and you wish to receive a reply, please ensure your name, address and postal code are printed clearly.

If you are sending an e-mail please ensure that you include your name and complete address so that we know the e-mail is from the riding. Constituent e-mails have priority in the office and receive responses almost immediately.

Thanks again for your input on this and every other issue.

Gord Brown
MP, Leeds-Grenville

School bus policy hard to understand

The Editor;

Am I the only taxpayer/parent who is upset by the cavalier and unexplainable way in which the local district school board cancels busing service in this area?

If memory serves me right, school buses have been cancelled at least five days since September for weather-related reasons ­ because of bad snow storms, not because of ice rain but because we might have those conditions before day's end to such an extent that five-ton buses, with competent, experienced drivers, cannot drive safely?

Does our school board really have the expertise and foresight to foretell the weather with sufficient accuracy to justify the further reduction of the already short school year? Or is the educational service they are providing so poor that missing all these days has no effect on the students' educational experience? Perhaps they know their product better than we think but the provincial standardized tests certainly show that some students require every day of instruction that the Ministry of Education mandates.

On another note, please allow me to object to the manner in which the media also dismisses and minimizes the effect of school-bus cancellation by inserting into the notices the happy little reminder that "schools remain open," which is at best a self-serving platitude to justify the ongoing daily expenditure of millions of dollars even though there is no organized educational instruction provided.

The director gets paid, the superintendents get paid, the principals get paid, the teachers get paid, the custodians get paid, and in reality, what really happens is that in the majority of schools the teachers sit in empty classrooms or the staff room and the day is an educational loss to the students and society as a whole.

Do we really expect today's savvy teenagers to show up in an empty school building where up to 75 per cent of the student population who ride the busses are missing and nothing worthy of their time is happening?

Sign me "perplexed."

Pat Sayeau
Edwardsburgh/Cardinal

Protest should be at Queen's Park

The Editor;

Just a quick couple of observations. While I can sympathize deeply to those who took part in the Rural Revolution demonstration, none of the folks who deserved it (Queen's Park or Parliament Hill members) were in the least bit inconvenienced in any way at all.

Next time, a more appropriate demonstration would be to take up a few manure spreaders to both Houses and cut loose on the MPs' and MPPs' entranceways. That might get their attention.

The other smallish thing: The Canadian and U.S. flags on the former police HQ building are looking pretty disreputable. If possible could those in charge either replace them or take them down? Thanks.

Gus Gere
Prescott

Editor's note: At least two protests are slated for Queen's Park early next month.

Free ice never felt so nice

The Editor;

Adult skaters: where are you?

Thursdays from noon to 1 pm is free skating. The ice at the Leo Boivin arena is excellent, but few take advantage of it.

It is free. Come enjoy.

Myrne Hart and Emerson Saunders
Prescott

New weaving class looms

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

The stitch and blather group will once more be working on its "community" quilts Wednesday evening (March 2). These are crib, lap or single bed size. If you are interested in joining us, please call for more information before 4 pm Wednesday. Call 925-5300.

We have a full bus for Magog. The bus will pick us up in the Walker House parking lot Sunday, March 6 at 9:30 am. Please plan to be here a few minutes earlier to pick up your luggage tag.

We are planning a new "learn to weave" class starting Tuesday, March 22 at 7 pm. We will supply the basic materials for you to get started, but you must register. This class will give the basics for weaving and will teach the principles of the loom. The class will run four to six weeks depending on interest.

Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Ruth Britnell; 2nd, Betty Pillar; door, Geneva Odell. Fun bridge ­ Glenn Morris. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Jean McCrady; 2nd, Hilda Hutton; 3rd, Jean Annable; door, Mary Reynolds.

Township loses qualified person

The Editor;

I have had a couple of dogs get away on me this past year, and if it wasn't for Darcy Alkerton, I probably would have never seen them again.

Darcy was quick at contacting me and letting me know where to pick up the animals, one of which was a very young black Lab that somehow got away from her kennel and wandered to someone else's backyard on the number 2 highway. This little dog was missing for a couple of days, and I was so happy to learn from Darcy she was indeed found and okay.

Augusta Township has lost a very qualified, caring and professional person.

Heather Durant
Merwin Lane

School Scene

Algonquin Public School: Essential Skills has a double meaning at Algonquin ­ what every student needs to be successful, and the name of the educational software students from which students are benefitting.

The programs are research-based and sure to motivate students and ensure success, says Ryan Brown, an initial founder. Previously a special education resource and computer teacher with UCDSB, Ryan knows what students need and like. For instance, the Sight Words beginner program Ms. Snow is piloting is a fun way of building student skill levels in recognizing the 220 Dolch Sight Words and other high-frequency words needed for communicating effectively. Mrs. Taylor has chosen to pilot a reading comprehension program which focuses on building student confidence and includes a student achievement tracking system. Mr. Buckland has opted for the Levelled Reader program for use with the Grade 3s to build skills required for the EQAO provincial testing.

Benson Public School: What a fun week we had at Benson. Talent show winners were McKenzie Gill, Erin MacDonald and Emma Patrick, who came in first with their baton-twilling number. Second place went to the entire Grade 1 class for its chicken dance. Beau Jodoin place third with his rendition of Blue Suede Shoes. Honourable mention goes to Tashina Sorrell and Jessica Halladay for their dance routine. It was great having Lynn Barkley and Leanne Brule back at school as judges.

The bubble-blowing contest was lots of fun as always. Sarah Trillo came first and Jonas Grant second in the primary division. Joey Coville came first and Cody Adams second in the junior division. Colton Toth came first, and Brent Langtree tied with Tiffany Ranger for second in the intermediate division.

Our students of the week were Gabriel Roy, Emily Meilleur, Jeffery Kincaid-Bartley, Tom Carrothers, Jenna Toupin, Andrew Miller and Jenna Riddell. Students were recognized for being patriotic during February.

Boundary Street Public School: If you were unable to attend our Kindergarten open house, please contact the office at 925-2803 to arrange a time to visit the school.

Our list of assembly award winners continues from Feb. 7:

Social Skills ­ Respect: Abi Coville, Jessica Houweling, Brooklinn Kennedy, Sam Kinsella, Tyson Lefebvre, Daniel Merkley, Hayley Murdock, Emily Ostrum, Kyle Szeto, J. D. VanAllen, Drew Visser, Sierra Vout.

Academic Awards: Kayley Bannister, Hillary Barton, Robyn Champagne, Vickie Hunt, Siobhan O'Hanlon, Kylee Sherman, Devon Stoddard, Dillon Stoddard, Phillip Wiseman.

The Students of the Month: Grace Archer, Mason Wyatt, and Tara Bailey.

Students are busy preparing for our talent show to be held March 8. Please plan to attend and support our talented students.

The following students won tickets to attend the Majinx show which were donated by the Rotary Club of Prescott: Scott Stephenson, Mason Wyatt, Abi Coville, Taylor Sharpley, Alex Stephenson, and Norman Aubin.

Hot lunch this Friday is pizza.

Central Public School: Primary children will be skating this Friday.

Staff and students enjoyed an exciting volleyball game that ended an excellent week of winter carnival activities.

Both school basketball teams travelled to tournaments last week and represented our school well. On Tuesday, March 1, both teams travelled to regional tournaments.

Fundraising is now being co-ordinated to support a theatre production of The Wizard of Oz which will perform at our school in April.

Maitland and Maynard Public Schools: On Tuesday, Maitland Kindergarten to Grade 4 students will be attending a "Canada is for Kids" concert at Maynard School, along with Maynard students. This concert features the talents of Canadian performer Michael Mitchell. In the afternoon, Maitland students will be taking part in their winter playday. Our weather has certainly co-operated to make the playday a success. Maynard's primary students held their winter playday last week with the assistance of their classroom teachers and the very capable Grade 8 students from Mrs. Morrison's class.

At Maynard, our Grade 6 students are currently attending "École de neige," a wonderful educational experience held in the province of Quebec, north of Montebello. This three-day trip provides students with the chance to use their conversational French and to participate in recreational activities. Our most recent snowfall will greatly enhance their winter fun.

St. Joseph Catholic School: This is Winter Activity Week at St. Joe's. Everyone is off to Mount Pakenham Wednesday. Students and staff are encouraged to turn those clothes inside out Thursday. We hope to see painted faces Friday.

Father Appelman and St. Joe's students and staff invite you to a Lenten Celebration of the Eucharist Wednesday, March 2 at 11 am in the school gym.

Students are editing and memorizing their speeches. Students chosen in each class will present their speeches in front of a larger audience of their peers March 3. Winners from that competition will be invited to the annual Royal Canadian Legion Public Speaking Competition Saturday, March 12.

Report cards will be sent home Wednesday, March 9.

Parents, do you need a night out? Come to the Prescott Fire Hall Saturday, March 12 from 8 pm to 1 am for a St. Patrick's Day Dance. St. Joseph School Council is hosting an adult dance for all St. Joseph parents, staff and friends. For tickets, call Leeann Burton at 925-0782 or Stacy Zahn at 925-5175.

St. Mark Catholic School: Welcome to our second week of Lent. We continue on our Lenten journey, an opportunity to reflect as we travel the road to Jerusalem and toward the celebration of new life at Easter.

Teachers have been busy with report cards for the second term, which will be issued before March Break.

Our weekly assembly will be held Thursday, Feb. 24 at 12:50 pm. We will host our rescheduled winter carnival outdoor activity morning Friday. Feb. 25 with all classes going skating at the Leo Boivin Community Centre in the afternoon.

On Monday, Feb. 28, all out students will travel to J.L. Jordan Catholic School in Brockville to watch The Nasty Snowman. This play put on by Skookie Productions carries a very important anti-bullying message for all. We will travel by bus and leave St. Mark at 9:15 am and return at 12:30 pm.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

South Edwardsburg Public School: In recognition of our grandparents, our Kindergarten and grades 1 to 4 classes are hosting a grandparent appreciation day tomorrow. Each student has invited a grandparent, family member or friend to celebrate this special occasion. Entertainment will be provided by our primary drama club performing a play called Mother Goose's Goose is Loose. The classes of Mr. McElrea, Mrs. Pillings, Mrs. Greenhorn and Mrs. Moulton will also perform a song or poem for this joyous occasion.

Hot lunch this week is hamburgers.

Prescott can learn lesson from Cardinal

Community responded to bank closure: LaBerge

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

JOHNSTOWN ­ What happened in Cardinal could happen in Prescott, the local Chamber of Commerce has been told.

In a presentation to Chamber directors Thursday at the Bridgeview Restaurant, Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association Chairman Bill LaBerge outlined the successful attempt to land a credit union in Cardinal after the only bank in town (TD Canada Trust) announced it would be closing in March.

Your Credit Union opened its doors in Cardinal last week.

LaBerge told the Chamber he would wager Prescott will lose one of its three banks within the next five years.

He said what happened in Cardinal is part of a national story; more than 2,500 bank branches have closed in Canada in recent years.

LaBerge noted the association spearheaded the Cardinal effort to get people involved and interested in the issue. Meetings were held and letters were written in an attempt to deal with the impending closure of the bank.

He said Cardinal "would die" without a financial institution in the village.

Getting the credit union to come to Cardinal was better than keeping the existing bank because of the services the credit union will provide, according to LaBerge.

"This is a success story for you guys down the road," he told the Chamber.

LaBerge noted the credit union had signed up about 50 members as of Thursday.

Two of the three Prescott banks were represented at the Chamber meeting. Neither bank official responded to LaBerge's comments.

MPP questions timing of casino expansion

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ The $400-million expansion of Casino Windsor is an example of pork-barrel politics, according to Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman.

Casino expansion plans announced early last week include a 400-room hotel and 5,000-seat auditorium. Runciman, who also serves as leader of the official opposition in the Ontario legislature, noted two Liberal cabinet ministers represent ridings in Windsor.

"This stinks to high heaven," Runciman stated in a release.

"The government is starving hospitals, laying off nurses, fighting with doctors and facing teacher strikes and the most important investment they can come up with is to spend $400 million to expand a casino," Runciman stated.

The MPP noted it is ironic the government announced a moratorium on new casinos and expansion of racetrack slots last month.

Runciman also noted the provincial government announced recently it would not be proceeding with the second and third phases of the St. Lawrence Valley Correctional and Treatment Centre located on the site of Brockville Psychiatric Hospital. The province cancelled a facility that would have eased what Runciman referred to as a "corrections crisis" in Eastern Ontario. Judges are reducing sentences to hardened criminals because of poor conditions at the Ottawa Detention Centre, according to the MPP.

Runciman was public safety and security minister when the St. Lawrence centre project was initiated. The Leeds-Grenville MPP was a provincial cabinet minister when the Thousand Islands Charity casino at Gananoque was approved and built.

Jr. B Rangers looking to build off 6-0 playoff victory

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers put their best game of the season together at the right time Saturday night to get back into their best-of-seven first-round playoff match-up against the Westport Rideaus.

After quickly dropping the first two games Wednesday in Cardinal and Friday in Westport, South Grenville had its backs against the wall and played that way pulling out a 6-0 victory Saturday over the Rideaus.

Rangers goaltender Tim Potter was stellar in goal throughout the game, providing key saves and helping South Grenville regain its swagger.

"It was a good win which we really needed," said Potter. "I got here early and just wanted to try and get the guys pumped up and they did a great job doing as much as they could to try and help out. It was pretty exciting."

For Potter, the win also had a bit of a special meaning.

"It was my first playoff game here," said Potter. "I was glad to get the win. Also, my dad was in town from California to come watch the game and he got to see it all."

Adam Tousant paced the Rangers with a two-goal performance, while Jason Whalen, David Lun, Brandon Kelley and Peter Veltkamp added singles. Adam Lawrence (2), Kelley (2), Matt Bailey (2), Andrew Fortier, Mark Williams and Eric Selleck chipped in with helpers.

Rangers coach Rod Simmons was happy with the team's effort as well as picking up his first playoff victory as South Grenville's coach.

"We just came out and played 60 minutes," explained Simmons. "I think we were hungry for a playoff win and the guys worked hard. It was a real team effort tonight; Potter played well in goal, our defensive corps played well and our forwards went hard to the net and went through the system well."

In game two Friday, South Grenville fell short in a 2-1 loss to Westport, which saw the Rangers have trouble finding the net while hitting the post numerous times.

Bailey scored the Rangers' lone goal, while Greg Richardson stopped 38 shots in the loss.

In game one last Wednesday, the Rangers dropped a 5-4 decision to the Westport Rideaus when Steve Biscaro squeaked one past Rangers keeper Greg Richardson in the final minute of the game.

Julien Francis scored a natural hat trick to start the game off with a 3-0 advantage for the Rangers, but Westport battled back and tied the game. Tousant scored the other South Grenville goal. Selleck (2), Tousant (2), Kelley, Lun, Ryan Sullivan and Alex Rees added assists. Richardson had a strong performance in goal, despite picking up the loss.

Westport still holds a 2-1 series lead over the Rangers, but South Grenville is looking to build off its last performance to try and even the series.

South Grenville will continue the series with game four this Friday at 8:15 pm in Westport, game five Saturday at 7:15 pm in Cardinal, game six Tuesday at 7:30 pm in Westport (if necessary) and game seven next Wednesday at 7:30 pm in Cardinal (if necessary).

Senior boys basketball team advances to LGSSAA final

PRESCOTT - South Grenville wasn't expected to be a big time player in senior boys basketball, but the Giants are on their way to the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association (LGSSAA) finals.

The Giants came into Friday's semi-final match-up against the St. Mary Crusaders as underdogs but didn't let that stop them as they pulled out a 53-50 win in Brockville.

"It was a pretty emotional game," Giants coach Jason Crotty explained. "We were really fired up at the start of the game, but we just didn't harness it. There was not one second of the game where the guys didn't play with heart. They hit their shots and poked away at the lead and everyone who played contributed."

Crotty indicated his co-captain Curtis Bucking's first half performance keeping the Giants within five points at the half (25-21) was big in the game.

The Giants almost let the game slip away from them in the
second half, when Andrew DeDekker received a technical foul when emotions got the better of him and the Crusaders'
Jordan Latham heated up. South Grenville continued to rally
with a flurry of three points to keep a slight lead, followed by DeDekker hitting a pair of free throws in the final seconds to
take a three point lead with seconds left. St. Mary's Orlando Spicer jacked up a three
just before the buzzer but was off the mark, securing the Giants win.

"We played hard and did what we had to do to win it," said DeDekker. "We played some good defence and did a better job trying to shut down Latham in the second half, but the guys got on a roll."

South Grenville scored a 59-38 win over the North Grenville Knights in LGSSAA quarter-final action last Tuesday. Sam Whitley paced the Giants with 18 points, followed by Andrew DeDekker with 13 points, Jon Baldwin with seven and Mike Armstrong and Curtis Bucking with four points apiece. Eric Hendriks had a dominant game under the glass managing seven blocked shots in a strong defensive effort.

The Giants will take on the BCI Red Rams in the LGSSAA senior boys finals tonight (Wednesday) at 8 pm at BCI. The TISS-BCI junior boys final will take place before the game at 6 pm.

Juniors fall in semi-final

Last Tuesday, the Giants managed a 59-37 quarter-final victory over the St. Mary Crusaders to advance to the LGSSAA semi-final. Josh Parsons scored a game-high 33 points, including four three-pointers to lead South Grenville. Cody Haché scored 14 for the Giants and Mike Froom added seven.

In their semi-final game Thursday, the Giants dropped a 67-56 decision to the TISS Pirates in Brockville. South Grenville gave up an 18-0 lead to start the game then rallied back to trail 35-28 at the half, but ran out of time in their comeback effort. Parsons led all scorers with 27 points in the game.

St. Joseph captures Giants basketball alumni tournament

PRESCOTT - The first annual South Grenville (basketball alumni - elementary school invitational) was a huge success with eight teams from around the area battling for bragging rights at the high school Friday.

The St. Joseph Yellow Jackets managed to put together a strong overall performance at the tournament posting a perfect 5-0 record including a 44-26 victory over the Prince of Wales Panthers in the final.

In the semi-final, St. Joseph scored a 44-26 victory over Maynard. Marcynuk scored 19 for the Yellow Jackets, followed by Jason Deeks with 10 and Luke Casselman with six. Dylan Heisel scored six for Maynard, while Tyler Curry added six.

Prince of Wales scored a 27-26 victory in the other semi-final game. Andrew Holowack scored 12 to lead the Panthers, followed by Brad Millar with eight. Dane Levere scored eight for Iroquois while Drew Morrow scored six.

In round-robin play, St. Joseph defeated Benson 48-10. Bobby Kimmerly scored 12 for St. Joseph, while Casselman added seven. Reilly Grootjans scored four to lead Benson.

Prince of Wales defeated Boundary Street 74-20 with Graham Silk leading the Panthers with 25 points. Jesse Yens added 14, while Millar added nine. Matt Walker scored eight for Boundary Street, while Luke Jansen had seven.

Iroquois managed a 31-22 win over Maynard, with Spencer Peters scoring 10 for Iroquois. Andrew Bernard had eight points to lead Maynard.

Central scored a 56-17 victory over Meadowview with Sean Perrin leading the Tigers with 19 points. Steve Moulton added 15 for Central. Jordan Vanasseldonk scored nine to lead Meadowview, while Jordan Patterson added six.

Benson scored a 47-23 victory over Boundary, thanks to a pair of 14-point performances by Josh Coville and Grootjans. Jacob Billmer added eight. Scott Stephenson scored eight for Boundary.

St. Joseph scored a 64-14 victory over Boundary Street. Marcynuk scored 12 to lead the Yellow Jackets, while Thomas Polite and Kimmerly added 10 and Deeks had eight. Walker and Stephenson each scored four for Boundary Street.

Maynard scored a 41-28 victory over Central, with Heisel scoring 16, while Tyler Curry added 11. Perrin scored 13 for the Tigers, while Moulton and Ben Hutton added six apiece.

Maynard managed a 29-20 victory over Meadowview, with Heisel scoring 10 points, while Kyle Jensen added eight. Patterson scored six to lead Meadowview.

Perrin scored 16 to lead Central to a 29-28 victory over Iroquois. Moulton added 11 for the Tigers, while Levere paced Iroquois with ten.

Iroquois scored a 27-15 victory over Meadowview, led by Levere's nine points. Peters added five for Iroquois. Vanasseldonk, Patterson and Andrew Clarke scored four to lead Meadowview.

St. Joseph scored a 48-29 victory over Prince of Wales. Marcynuk scored a game-high 20 points for the Yellow Jackets, while Kimmerly added 12 and Casselman had 10. Silk scored 13 to lead the Panthers, followed by six from Millar.

Marcynuk from St. Joseph was named the tournament's most valuable player, while Deeks of St. Joseph, Silk and Holowack of Prince of Wales, Heisel of Maynard and Levere of Iroquois were named to the tournament all star team.

Members of the South Grenville Giants senior and junior boys basketball teams hosted the tournament, acting as referees and score keepers as well as performing numerous other duties.

SG volleyball teams have tough week to end regular season play

BROCKVILLE - The South Grenville Giants volleyball teams had a tough week at St. Mary which cost them the right to host the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association (LGSSAA) volleyball championships.

At St. Mary, the senior Giants posted a 2-6 record on the day winning a pair of games against St. Mary, before dropping both games to Gananoque and TISS.

The TISS Pirates finished in top spot in the senior girls standings with 24 points, followed by the Gananoque Trojans with 22 points and South Grenville in third place with 20 points.

Giants coach Ann Drummond indicated despite not earning the right to host the tournament, South Grenville still had a good weekend.

"We didn't play too badly, but we just had trouble scoring," said Drummond. "We played really good defence, but we were just unable to finish on offence. Everyone was a little out of sync with one another."

Drummond said the Giants were forced to scramble against TISS in their final game after losing a key part of their team to injury.

"Alex (Ward) and Sam (Joudoin) played really well for us," said Drummond. "We still had a chance at first place, but Sam hurt her shoulder and it was difficult for us to adapt to losing her."

Drummond indicated the LGSSAA finals should be a bit of a crap shoot with any of the four teams involved capable of winning the title.

Juniors finish second in standings

South Grenville's junior girls team had a very up and down day Thursday posting a 4-4 record at St. Mary, scoring a pair of wins over the Crusaders, before posting identical 1-2 records against Gananoque and TISS.

The Giants fell short in the junior girls standings with 18 points, trailing the first place Gananoque Trojans with 21 points.

Junior Giants co-coach Christine Sloan indicated the tournament was a bit of a letdown for South Grenville.

"We played and lost two games to TISS, which was a disappointment," said Sloan. "We came back from that and played our best game of the day in a 27-26 loss to Gananoque. All the girls played really well and it was nice to see them starting to come together and cheering one another on from the bench."

Both South Grenville teams will travel to Gananoque Thursday to take part in the LGSSAA finals. The Giants junior girls team will open the day with their semi-final match-up against the BCI Red Rams at 4 pm. South Grenville's senior girls semi-final game against Gananoque will take place at 5 pm. The junior final is scheduled for 6 pm, while the senior final is scheduled to begin at 7:30 pm.

Bantam Blues making waves

CORNWALL - The Brockville bantam Custom Decor Blues regional basketball team had an up-and-down couple of weeks and narrowly missed a bronze medal at the Cornwall bantam tournament.

On Feb. 5, the Blues travelled to Cornwall and fell just short of a bronze medal. In their opener, the Blues dropped a 54-45 decision to the Goulbourn Hornets #1. Steve Moulton led the Blues with 19 points, followed by Graham Silk with 11.

In their second game,
the Blues got on a roll and scored a 68-31 victory over the Potsdam Warriors. Silk caught on fire
in the game to drain a season high 31 points, followed
by Torin Marcynuk with nine and Bobby Kimmerly with seven.

In game 3, the Blues suffered a hard-fought 44-35 loss
to the St. Joseph's Panthers. Marcynuk scored nine in
the loss, while Moulton chipped in eight.

In game 4, the Blues fell 54-38 to the Cornwall Lions #1. Alec MacNeil scored 23 points to pace the Blues, while Brad Millar added four.

In the bronze medal game, the bantams lost a heartbreaker to Goulbourn 41-40, with the Hornets sinking a shot in the final four seconds to hand the Blues the loss. Moulton scored 13 in the loss, while Millar added ten.

On Feb. 12, the Blues travelled to Smiths Falls for a pair of games and scored a 73-32 victory in their opener against Smiths Falls. Moulton paced the Blues with 23 points, followed by Silk with 12 and Jordan Patterson with five.

In their second game, the Blues dropped a close game to Osgoode on a last second three pointer 58-56. Silk led Brockville with 15 points, followed by MacNeil with 14 and Moulton with 10.

SG atom B Rangers finish 20-1-3

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville atom B Rangers finished in top spot of the Upper Canada Minor Hockey League's West Division with a 20-1-3 record for 43 points, while only allowing 29 goals against.

On Feb. 6, the Rangers scored a 3-1 victory over the Brockville Jr. Braves in Prescott. Brett Van Stralen led the Rangers with a pair of goals, while Cody Adams added a single. Broydon Stufko (2), Houston Bujacz and Van Stralen chipped in with helpers.

On Feb. 13, South Grenville travelled to Athens and scored a 3-1 victory over the Aeros. Alex Stephenson, Dylan Dorey and Stufko scored for the Rangers, while Dorey, Matt Courtney, Stephenson and Bujacz added assists.

The Rangers began their first-round playoff series against the Athens Aeros last night in Prescott.

Midget Blues holding tryouts for grades 9-10 students in March

PRESCOTT - The Brockville midget Blues regional basketball team will be holding tryouts beginning in March.

The tryouts are open to Grade 9 and 10 students, who are born in 1989 or 1990.

The first tryout session will be Tuesday, March 1 at South Grenville District High School.

The second session will be held Thursday, March 3 at TISS in Brockville and the final session will be Tuesday, March 8 back in Prescott. All tryouts run from 5 pm until 7 pm.

For more information contact John Doran at jkdoran@ripnet.com or 345-0503 or visit the team's Web site www.eteamz.com/brockvilleblues.

Interclub figure skating event set for Spencerville Saturday

SPENCERVILLE ­ The Edwardsburgh Skating Club will host the Seaway Valley Recreational ­ Interclub event this Saturday, Feb. 26 at the arena in Spencerville.

About 130 skaters from many clubs in Eastern Ontario ­ including about 20 from the host club ­ will take part in the event. The competition for youngsters ranging in age from four to 18 starts at 8 am and will run into the early evening hours.

Skaters will compete in Canskate solos and elements, Starskate solos and elements and improv and similar pairs. Admission is free.

The interclub event is hosted on a rotating basis; Edwardsburgh last hosted it in 1996.

SGMHA teams to play Finnish teams in exhibition games

SPENCERVILLE - Two South Grenville Minor Hockey Association teams will get the chance for international competition when they play a pair of Finnish teams Monday, March 7.

Members of the South Grenville minor midget Rangers and major bantam Rangers will get the chance to take on the Finns, who are in Canada as part of an international hockey tour.

Both games will be held at the Spencerville arena, with the bantams kicking things off at 6 pm, with the minor midget game to follow at approximately 7:30 pm. The Rangers teams will also be having a reception for the Finnish teams following the games at the Drummond Building. Admission to the games is free.

Grenville Sportsman & Outdoor Show in Spencerville March 13

SPENCERVILLE - The Grenville Fish and Game Club will be hosting the Grenville Sportsman & Outdoor Show Sunday, March 13 from 10 am until 6 pm at the Drummond Building in Spencerville.

The show will feature an indoor 3D archery tournament. Registration for the tournament is from 8 am until 10 am. It will also feature antler scoring, calling demonstrations and a turkey calling competition. There will be draws and door prizes throughout the day.

For more information on the show, visit www.grenvillefishandgame.com or call (613) 928-2652.

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