VOL. 175, NO. 16~ PRESCOTT, ONTARIO ~ April 20, 2005

Burn ban still in place

Extremely dry conditions keep firefighters busy

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The fire chief of Augusta Township is urging local residents to comply with a counties-wide ban on open-air burning.

Lorne Dougherty said conditions are exceptionally dry this spring. "I don't remember a burn ban this early" in the season, the chief added.

Anyone who fails to comply with the ban on outdoor fires faces being fined. Dougherty noted volunteer firefighters have been kept very busy responding to grass and brush fires this past week.

On Saturday, 22 Augusta firefighters and 10 firefighters from Prescott responded to a fire on Rocky Road. Dougherty said the blaze, which started in a burn barrel, covered between 10 and 15 acres. After spending three hours dealing with that fire, Augusta was called to assist Elizabethtown-Kitley with a grass fire on County Road 26.

On Sunday afternoon, the Augusta department was called to a house fire on Algonquin Road. Two minutes later, township firefighters were called to a grass fire on County Road 21. A mutual aid call was placed to Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal for the grass fire.

Dougherty expects the ban will not be lifted until the area receives two to three days of steady rain. "A little bit isn't going to help," the fire chief said of the extremely dry conditions.

Although rain is expected today, an extended period of precipitation was not in the forecast.

A little off the top

Head-shaving is show of support for friend dealing with cancer

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

JOHNSTOWN - Actions speak louder than words, and 27 people shaving their heads to show their support for a friend battling cancer speaks volumes.

Twenty-seven friends (mostly Casco employees) of the Allan family had their heads shaved Sunday at the Johnstown ATV Club as part of a fundraiser to help support Jeff Allan, who is battling Hodgkins disease.

Hodgkins disease is a form of cancer which starts in the lymphatic tissue of the lymph nodes and related organs which are part of the body's immune and blood-forming systems.

The event was slated to be 10 people having their head shaved to show their support while also collecting donations, but after the cutting began it quickly expanded to 27 people shaving their heads and more than $8,000 collected to help the Allan family with expenses related to Jeff's battle with the disease.

Three local hairdressers, Darlene Sloan, Diana Lee Deschamps and Cheryl Marriner, shaved the volunteers three at a time until they were all done; Jeff and his son Michael joined in the event, which added up to 27 bald heads including Faye Murphy who surprised everyone by getting up there to be the lone woman to have her head shaved.

The idea for the fundraiser came from Wayne Dillabaugh and Jim Blanchette, who along with Jeff coached their sons' hockey team and decided they wanted to do something to show their support.

"I told Jeff we wanted to do this and he said there were people out there more in need than they were, but he said if this was something we wanted to do to go ahead," said Dillabaugh.

"Liz and Jeff both work with most of us at Casco and they're such a well-liked couple, we wanted to show our support and raise a little money for them at the same time. With the treatments, Liz will have to take time off work to drive Jeff up to Ottawa and there's parking, eating while they're up there and all kinds of expenses which add up. Everyone wanted to do what they could and they did.

"The Johnstown ATV club let us have this event here and then surprised us by donating all the food for the kids for free. Everything just came together," Dillabaugh added.

According to Jeff's wife Liz, he will be going through three months of chemo-therapy and one month of radiation, but indicated he seems to be doing well.

"We're just staying positive and trying to get through this," explained Liz. "Two years ago my mother was diagnosed with cancer and last year my grandmother was told she had it, so this is the third time we've dealt with this in two years. Everyone has been really great and support of to us and this whole event is really overwhelming and such a surprise."

As a surprise for Jeff, his wife Liz and children Michael and Mackenzie presented him with an autographed Mario Lemieux Pittsburgh Penguins hockey jersey, which she was able to attain through the NHL alumni foundation with some help from the Gill family.

Liz told her husband Mario Lemieux battled Hodgkins disease and came back from it and became a better hockey player, and Jeff would too.

After the presentation, an emotional Jeff acknowledged everyone on hand for their efforts and joked he was more surprised by this than when he was told his liver was good when he was diagnosed.

"I'm a little overwhelmed," Jeff explained to the crowd of more than 80 well-wishers. "Liz and I must have done something right to have friends like this. I have to thank everyone for all they've done."

THIS WEEK

South Grenville show set for this weekend

MAITLAND ­ The South Grenville Guild of Fine Art will host its 2005 art show and sale this weekend at MERC Hall.

The public is invited to browse and chat with the more than 20 artists who are participating in this year's show. Some of the artists will provide demonstrations and will have works in progress on display at the event.

The show runs Friday (April 22) from 7 to 9 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm.

Admission is free.

Take the Earth Day challenge on Friday

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The community is being invited to take the Earth Day challenge later this week.

The French geography class at South Grenville District High School will be cleaning the front yard of the school this Friday morning (April 22, Earth Day).

South Grenville teacher Christine Sloan said students will be doing their part to create a better-looking community, and other people are encouraged to do the same.

A community clean-up being led by South Edwardsburg Public School will take place this Friday from 10:30 am to noon. Volunteers can pick up bags and gloves at the school.

The area extending from County Road 2 to Sutton Drive will be the focus of the Johnstown clean-up.

Buddy Holly Live hits the stage on Saturday

BROCKVILLE ­ Tickets for Buddy Holly Live are still available.

The concert, which is set for this Saturday, April 23 at 8 pm at Brockville Collegiate Institute on Pearl Street, is a fundraiser for the United Way of Leeds and Grenville.

Tickets can be purchased at Doyle's on King Street West in Prescott and at the door Saturday night.

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

The concert is sponsored by 104.9 JR FM and Henderson Printing.

Sit back and enjoy the trip to exotic places

SPENCERVILLE ­ The first trip for the Armchair Travellers will take place this Thursday night in the council chamber at township hall in Spencerville.

Join Vicki Cameron on a journey through Thailand beginning at 7 pm.

The weekly slide shows are being presented by the Friends of the Edwardsburgh Public Library. Proceeds support the Spencerville branch.

Tickets for each show or the entire series are available at the library and at the door.

Future of downtown Prescott is all about priorities

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Setting priorities for the future of downtown Prescott was the focus of the latest in a series of public meetings last Wednesday night

About 30 people attended the meeting held at town hall. The previous workshop held at the Legion attracted a crowd of about 50.

Representatives from IBI Group, the consulting firm hired by the municipality to conduct the downtown revitalization plan and the review of Prescott's official plan, were on hand to facilitate the session. James Robertson explained the purpose was to confirm a list of priorities and obtain community support for elements of the downtown plan.

After an outline of the redevelopment proposal was presented, three smaller groups were formed; each group discussed the 50 points listed in the proposal and rated them in terms of priority: short-term (up to five years), medium (six to ten years) and long-term (11 to 15 years).

At least two of the groups consisted of long-time and life-long Prescott-area residents as well as those who have lived in town for a few years or less.

The 50 points were divided into six geographic sections: waterfront district, park district (Centennial Park and Fort Wellington Park), King Street, Coast Guard district and general. The ideas listed by the consultants included everything from streetscape improvements on main street and a continuous pedestrian path along the waterfront to a pedestrian swing bridge at the entrance to the harbour and a winter ice rink and pavilion near the bottom of George Street.

One concern raised by a few of the participants was the proposal put forward by IBI was heavy on the waterfront and light on downtown. Merchant and former mayor Tom Doyle said there are many valid ideas associated with waterfront development, but downtown revitalization should be focused on the major concern: King Street.

Merchant Robin Shire agreed, saying "it's more than just planting six trees on each block." IBI officials noted the waterfront provides bigger opportunities and more points for discussion, whereas there is no debate on improved streetscaping on King Street.

However. Robertson said it is not IBI's job to come in and tell the municipality what to do; that is up to the community to decide.

The priorities listed at the workshop will be reviewed by IBI officials and will serve as the basis for another report to be released as part of an open house sometime in mid-May.

There was also talk of how elements of the downtown plan would be implemented. The possibility of establishing a non-profit organization to oversee implementation was discussed. Merchant Ray Young of the Prescott BIA noted the municipality would have to take a lead role in the process.

"This won't move forward without council supporting it," Young said. "They have to drive it as much as anyone."

He also noted he is "continually impressed" by the fact many new people in town are coming out to these meetings and offering views which are refreshing. Earlier in the day, Young told Chamber of Commerce directors there are a lot of common-sense improvements being discussed as well as some exciting and expensive ideas which are unlikely to happen.

Councillor and planning committee chair Chuck Street acknowledged at the workshop there are "plenty of naysayers" who question whether any of the ideas and concepts discussed at these meetings will ever get off the ground. Street said those interested in improving downtown Prescott will have to "put our earplugs in and move forward."

The councillor also noted he did an informal survey and counted 125 stores and services in the main street area. He calculated the commercial vacancy rate to be 4.6 per cent. "We're really doing very good in this community," Street commented.

Most or all of the costs associated with the downtown revitalization plan are being covered by grants from the Eastern Ontario Development Fund and Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation.

Runciman supports the creation of provincial Eastern Ontario fund

TORONTO ­ A private member's bill calling for the creation of a provincially-funded corporation to support economic development in Eastern Ontario is receiving the support of Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman.

The bill was introduced last week by Lanark-Carleton MPP Norm Sterling who, at one time, represented the Prescott area in the Ontario legislature.

The proposal covers all of Eastern Ontario, with the exception of the City of Ottawa. The economic development fund corporation would invest in public- and private-sector projects; its board of directors would consist of Eastern Ontario residents and would be chaired by the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

This corporation would be similar to the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund, a provincial agency which has invested in water plants, broadband infrastructure, tourist attractions, industrial parks and other ventures.

In a news release, Sterling stated he has seen eastern communities suffer as industries, jobs and people have left. The Progressive Conservative MPP hopes the creation of a regional fund "...can help make these communities more competitive and ensure they continue to thrive."

Runciman stated in the release he is glad his caucus colleague brought forward a bill to recognize "the unique challenges" facing the region.

"The Ontario government has long recognized the special needs of Northern Ontario, but Eastern Ontario's needs have gone unnoticed," the Leeds-Grenville MPP stated.

Both Sterling and Runciman served in the Progressive Conservative government from 1981 to 1985 and the ones led by premiers Mike Harris and Ernie Eves from 1995 to 2003.

Last year, the federal government provided $10 million for its new Eastern Ontario Development Fund. The 2005 federal budget included an additional $8 million for the funds; further details have yet to be announced.

Census data from 2001 indicates median incomes in Eastern Ontario are almost 15 per cent below the provincial average, according to the release from Sterling's office. "Eastern Ontario has proven we are a disadvantaged region," stated Lanark County Warden Susan Freeman, who added the proposed bill would help address local needs and create self-sustaining communities.

Community dinner is next Wednesday

PRESCOTT ­ A Master's Hands community supper will take place next Wednesday, April 27 at Seaway Christian Church on Churchill Road.

The monthly dinner for the less fortunate will be served from 5 to 6:15 pm. There is no admission fee; everyone is welcome to attend.

Mingle with local authors at fundraiser

BROCKVILLE ­ Several authors from the South Grenville area will be among the more than 40 writers who will appear at a special fundraiser next weekend at the Brockville Arts Centre.

River Readings ­ A Celebration of Local Authors will take place Sunday, May 1 from 1 to 5 pm. Proceeds are in support of a new Brockville history book to be released later this year.

There will be amusing and serious readings as well as discussions and music. The event will also feature a silent auction of new publications and displays including older publications no longer available. Light refreshments will be served.

Participating authors include Vicki Cameron, Gord Swoger, Joy H. Mann and Thelma Cameron.

Tickets are available at the arts centre box office (342-7122) and Leeds County Books, which is one of the sponsors of the event. The other sponsors are the City of Brockville and The Recorder and Times.

Wind turbine test plan in Augusta to be discussed at public meeting

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAYNARD - The landscape of Augusta Township may be modified to include the sight of windmills.

Two men from Windfield Energy Inc., an Ottawa company, spoke to council last week about the possibility of constructing wind turbines on the northern portion of the township's industrial park adjacent to the 401.

Council seemed generally receptive to the idea, but added that a public meeting was necessary to gauge the concerns of township residents. Reeve John McCrea stated that a "full blown" public meeting would be in order, and council decided a meeting should be held next Monday, April 25 at 7 pm at MERC Hall in Maitland.

Benjamin Strehler, vice-president of engineering for the firm, addressed council as a delegation at last Monday's council meeting. He stated his company could install one of the turbines beside Highway 401 as a demonstration, and could add more later

"Our philosophy has been to do a community-based development program for wind energy," stated Robert van Eyk, CEO and president of Windfield Energy. "If the community does not support it, it's very difficult to proceed with an innovation like this." He added Windfield Energy "really welcome the opportunity to air this throughout the entire community."

Regarding the possibility of wind turbines, Councillor John Fischl stated "I also see it as sort of a lightning rod for other industries to come into the area, because that (turbines) will draw a lot of reaction," while Councillor Pauline Cyr stated "(It's) good to put something on the land."

Deputy Reeve Bill Buckler was curious about how much the project would cost the township. Strehler stated that it wouldn't cost the township anything. However, he also mentioned the township has the opportunity to become shareholders in the development if it desires, as can residents of the township.

Strehler also told council that, worldwide, the wind energy sector "has incredible growth rates." He also mentioned that in Canada, there are federal government incentives to facilitate wind energy projects, and that Windfield would "like to take advantage of that."

The wind turbines which would be put on the industrial park property would be about 300 feet high. Each of the turbines generate power for between 500 and 700 homes.

Following the public meeting, if the public is found to be in favour of the development and if council gives Windfield Energy the go ahead, van Eyk stated his company would go ahead to do all the work necessary to establish wind turbines on the industrial park property. "(There's) still a quite a bit of work to do and money to spend to get there," he stated.

According to their Web site, Windfield has been researching the feasibility of wind farm projects throughout Canada. The company was incorporated in 2003.

McCrea said if Augusta isn't interested in the wind development, there are "lots (of communities) that are."

Murray receives RBC Impact award

Royal Bank honours Prescott branch manager for her work as a community volunteer

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Royal Bank Prescott Branch Manager Mary Lou Murray was recognized for all her volunteer efforts with a Royal Bank Impact award.

Twenty-six awards are given out in the province; Murray was selected from the more than 100 entries from Royal Bank employees in Ontario.

According to the RBC Impact Award release, Murray satisfied the award's six requirements of innovation, motivation, proactive and ongoing, achievement, community needs and time and effort.

According to RBC Sales and Market Manager for Rideau Lakes and Valley Area Ron Sauve, who nominated Murray for the award, Murray typifies what the award is all about.

"She has been an avid volunteer in this community," said Sauve. "She's always getting involved in different projects in the area and in the last 12-months she has helped raise more than $30,000 for charities and causes in the community. She's a leader at work and in the community."

With the impact award comes a cheque for $2,000 to a charitable cause of Murray's choosing. She quickly indicated the money would be going to the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival, of which she is a board member and has been heavily involved. In the past year she has given more than 100 hours of her time to the festival and has indicated it is a labour of love to give back to the community she both works and lives in.

A gracious Murray explained part of the credit for this award will be shared with her co-workers, who are a very big part of the bank being involved with the community.

"I'm lucky to have such a friendly and helpful staff who are always willing to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand," said Murray. "Everyone here gets involved and opens their wallets, or sells chocolate bars or does whatever they can to help."

Murray, has been involved in numerous community groups in the area including the Prescott Rotary Club, St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival, Canadian Diabetes Association, Prescott Women's Network, Prescott Chamber or Commerce and Prescott DBIA to name a few.

St. Lawrence Shakespeare Company Treasurer Ken Durand indicated Murray is very worthy of the award, He indicated the money would be put to good use in one of the causes about which Murray is most passionate.

"She's such a friendly, helpful person," said Durand. "She always just digs in and does what she can; she just rolls up her sleeves and gets involved. The community is well represented with Mary Lou on our board."

Murray is approaching her 32nd year at the Royal Bank in Prescott and indicated the volunteering efforts and community involvement has been one of her favourite parts of being part of the community.

Site plan for downtown condos receives town committee's approval in principle

Mariner's Club proposal leads to waterfront area traffic study

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The town's planning and development committee has approved in principle a site plan proposal for the Mariner's Club condominium project on Water Street.

The committee gave its consent when it met after the Prescott council meeting Monday night. James Murphy from the development group gave an update on the project and changes made to the proposal.

The four-storey, 28-unit building will be constructed on the Blue Fence property located between the Moran-Hooker building and the Kinsmen Amphitheatre.

Changes noted by Murphy include the removal of parking spaces from the north side of the building off Water Street. Other modifications to the south side of the building, which faces the St. Lawrence River, were met with positive comments by town officials.

Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller noted the issue of access to the parking area and garage on the south side of the property from the existing municipal parking lot will be the subject of further deliberations. Haller said it is time for the town to study the mixed use (residential, recreational and commercial) of parking and roadways in the waterfront area at the base of Centre Street. To that end, the committee endorsed Haller's recommendation to hire a transportation engineer to study the parking and access issues.

The developer has agreed to contribute between $5,000 and $8,000 toward the cost of the engineering study. The CAO will obtain quotes on the study.

The committee also endorsed Haller's recommendation to hire the IBI Group (which is already working on the downtown revitalization plan and official plan review) to serve as a professional planner and review the condo proposal. The estimated cost of this study is between $2,500 and $3,000. Haller said the purpose is to ensure the town is handling all aspects of the development proposal properly.

It was also noted the developer is seeking some kind of assurance the municipal lot area will become a park area. Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn and other council members indicated a plan that spells out such a commitment over a period of several years could be incorporated into the downtown plan and official plan review.

Murphy said construction could begin Aug. 1 if six to eight units are sold in the near future. Construction would take between eight and 12 months, according to Murphy.

Councillor Suzanne Dodge referred to the $6.5-million Mariner's Club project as "an exceptional addition to the town."

Councillor Bob Pelda, one of the backers of the project, declared an interest and left the room for the duration of the committee's discussions Monday night.

Pledges being accepted as part of hair donation

PRESCOTT - Jackie Coville, the Maynard woman who is cutting off her long hair to donate to the A Child's Voice Foundation's Angel Hair for Kids program which makes wigs for children who have lost their hair because of disease, has pledge sheets for the cause available at local businesses.

Coville is having her hair cut at the Cardinal Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion this Saturday, April 23 at 3 pm. The Legion in Cardinal is collecting pledges, as is O'Carroll's Grocery and Your Credit Union, also in Cardinal.

In Prescott, people can make pledges at Seaway Valley Pharmacy and Tan & Tone. Pledges can also be made at the Maynard Store and Joe Computer in Spencerville, or by calling Sister Carrie Crozier in Brockville at 341-7762.

Get ready to bid at the Dream Auction

Girls Inc. event set for May 7 at the 1000 Islands Mall

BROCKVILLE ­ More than 400 businesses and individuals are expected to take part in the 2005 Dream Auction to be held early next month.

The 12th annual fundraiser for Girls Incorporated of Upper Canada will take place Saturday, May 7 at the 1000 Islands Mall in Brockville.

In addition to the live auction (which will be broadcast on Cogeco TV's community channel), there will be a silent auction and performances by Belleville Teen Idol Peter J. Fox.

Among the hundreds of items up for bid are a Caribbean cruise, plasma TV and golf and gift packages.

Girls Inc. offers one-on-one mentoring, birth companion, economic literacy and other programs to girls and young women in the region (including South Grenville).

For more information on the upcoming Dream Auction fundraiser or the organization, contact Carol Vandertol at 345-3295 or Elizabeth Healy at 345-5747 or visit www.girlsinc-uppercanada.org.

Peter MacKay to be speaker

BROCKVILLE ­ Deputy Opposition Leader Peter MacKay is scheduled to be the guest speaker at a Leeds-Grenville Conservative fundraiser to be held this Thursday, April 21 at 7:30 pm at the Royal Brock.

MacKay, a Nova Scotia MP, was leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada when it was amalgamated with the Alliance Party of Canada in late 2003 to create the new Conservative Party of Canada.

Also scheduled to appear at the local association's event are Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown and his Conservative caucus colleagues Merv Tweed (Brandon-Souris) and James Bezan (Selkirk-Interlake).

Tickets are available to the public. For more information, call Tim Sutton at 258-1724.

Farmers can use cards to get sales tax exemption

TORONTO ­ ID cards issued by general farm organizations can now be used to obtain provincial sales tax exemptions at points of sale in Ontario, according to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA).

In an April 1 news release, OFA reported the provincial finance ministry had made the announcement about sales tax exemptions. Farmer ID cards like the ones issued to members of OFA are to be shown to the vendor when purchasing farm-related equipment and products.

Farmers can still use their purchase exemption certificates to buy farm-related items without having to pay retail sales tax, the release stated.

OFA President Ron Bonnett said the move will help farmers save the time it takes to apply to the province for refunds on provincial sales tax paid.

Cat licensing to be discussed by committee

PRESCOTT ­ A letter stating concerns about the absence of a cat bylaw in Prescott has been referred to committee.

In her March 31 letter to Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn and council, Heather Rothgeb states she is "growing increasingly angry" about the municipality's inability to dealing with the problem of roaming cats.

The Dibble Street West resident applauds enforcement of dog-related bylaw provisions, but she states it is "absurd" dog owners face regulations while cat owners do not.

Rothgeb states all pets should be licensed. "I object to the decision to ignore the real issue of pet ownership in this town." She goes on to write, "Discussions with neighbours do nothing, as they're well aware they have no responsibilities and they aren't anxious to accept any."

In her letter, Rothgeb notes cats have, among other things, destroyed gardens, urinated on outdoor furniture cushions and broken flower pots. She also notes she and her daughter are allergic to cats; the "constant intrusion" by the cats has also aggravated her daughter's asthma, according to Rothgeb.

In 2001, the previous council opted not to license cats. In noting the subject has been discussed in the past, Rothgeb states "it remains an issue that appears not important enough to resolve."

The letter was among many information items presented to council prior to its April 5 meeting.

The subject of cat licensing is expected to arise when the community and protective services committee meets on Monday night (April 25).

Youth fair to be held early next month at South Grenville District High School

PRESCOTT ­ The youth fair is returning for a third year at South Grenville District High School.

The annual event will take place Wednesday, May 4 from 8 am to 3 pm.

The purpose of the fair is to increase awareness of organizations which are available to teenagers and young adults between the ages of 14 and 20.

Representatives from numerous organizations will be on hand to provide information on everything from substance abuse and mental health services to employment and financial assistance.

The event is aimed at reducing the stigma associated with youth; the fair also gives service providers a chance to network.

Admission is free. The public is invited to attend.

About 800 people attended the 2004 youth fair at the high school. A survey indicated respondents would like the youth fair to be an annual event.

The third annual fair is being hosted by Connect Youth in association with Prescott Youth Centre, SAVE and the Interact club.

Set-up will start at 7:30 am. Community groups and agencies interested in taking part in the event or anyone seeking more information are asked to contact Kelly or Melissa at 925-2855, ext. 3373, or send an e-mail to melissa.hodgkinson@ucdsb.on.ca.

See next week's Journal for more details.

Fortification bylaw deferred

PRESCOTT ­ A proposed fortification bylaw will go back to committee for further discussion, Prescott council has decided.

The bylaw was presented for third and final reading Monday night. However, the matter was deferred at the request of Councillor Chuck Street.

The stated purpose of enacting the bylaw is to protect against excessive protective measures which could make it difficult for emergency response personnel and bylaw enforcement officers to do their jobs.

Despite assurances from CAO/Clerk Robert Haller that the bylaw "confers no greater authority" to law enforcement agencies, Street believes the proposal might infringe on the rights of property owners and create "unintended consequences."

Street also indicated Fort Wellington is not listed as being exempt from the provisions of the bylaw. Councillor Nancy Lane also voiced concerns about the proposal. In noting Augusta council voted against a fortification bylaw, Lane questioned the need for it. She referred to it as "big brother government."

Haller acknowledged there are a few items in the proposal that can be adjusted. However, he reiterated his belief the overall bylaw is good.

The former Prescott Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police have recommended the town enact a bylaw. Although they have not indicated the town has a major problem with biker gangs, grow houses or people who would set up booby traps on their properties, police have called for a bylaw to help make their job easier when dealing with the criminal element.

Adult entertainment licence to be issued, but final vote on new bylaw postponed

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ A final vote on a bylaw to consolidate new and existing restrictions on adult entertainment parlours in Prescott has been deferred.

Town council decided Monday night to delay final reading of the bylaw. The move was made to enable minor changes to be made and to allow the Rainbow to obtain a licence under the existing bylaw.

The King Street bar and restaurant applied for an adult entertainment licence last May. Speaking on behalf of the Rainbow, Janet Bradley told council the owners have spent close to $100,000 on renovations and upgrades to the building.

She said the business would not be able to obtain a licence based on restrictions set out in the proposed bylaw. Bradley noted she had met with Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller recently to discuss the situation.

Haller said Monday night the applicant has been co-operative and has complied with requests for building changes. Haller added he expects he will be in a position to grant a licence to the Rainbow by the end of this week.

Under the proposed bylaw, no parlours would be permitted south of the CN Rail line. However, the Rainbow would be "grandfathered" in as a pre-existing use. If the adult entertainment parlour closes at that location, a new applicant could not obtain a licence to have strippers perform there.

Bradley also noted the town was planning to impose operating hour limits not in effect for other bars in town. The committee decided those limits (including being closed Sunday and not opening until noon the other six days of the week) were inappropriate and will not appear in the bylaw when it is put to a final vote next month.

In terms of the licensing of dancers, Haller said the municipality must "tweek" the wording of the bylaw. The town will contract a private individual to produce laminated photo identification cards for dancers.

The bylaw requires dancers to be at least 18 years old and be legal Canadian citizens or immigrants. Licences for performers, owners and operators are for one-year periods.

Bradley noted some council members might not prefer to have an adult entertainment parlour in Prescott. However, she added those who are opposed would also want to be fair when dealing with the applicant.

When asked how the owners would react if the town opted to approve the new bylaw and not grant a licence to the Rainbow, Bradley suggested such a move would not look good and could be considered discriminatory or a sign of bad faith on the part of the municipality. However, council agreed to the request to defer passage of the bylaw.

No other input on the bylaw was received during the special public meeting held at the start of the regular council meeting.

Pitch in at Johnstown clean-up Friday

JOHNSTOWN ­ A community clean-up will take place in Johnstown this Friday morning.

The event runs from 10:30 am to noon. Volunteers can pick up bags and gloves at South Edwardsburg Public School between 10:30 and 11:30 am. The clean-up area extends from County Road 2 to Sutton Drive.

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

April 22 is Earth Day. This is also Pitch-In Week in Canada.

Food stolen from chip wagon, bike taken from yard

PRESCOTT ­ Officers with the Grenville County OPP detachment responded to 46 calls for service in the Prescott patrol zone last week.

A break-in at Charlie's Chip Wagon on Irvine Drive is being investigated by Constable Pergunas. The theft is believed to have taken place between about 3 pm last Monday (April 11) and 11:15 am last Tuesday. Food items taken include hamburgers, sausages, cheese and soft drinks. Total value of the stolen items is between $400 and $500. Some items at the scene were seized for forensic identification.

A child's maroon BMX bicycle was taken from a Dibble Street West resident during the overnight hours of April 16-17. The bike is valued at $200. Constable Terry Foster is investigating.

On Saturday at about 11:16 pm, Sergeant Onlock was on patrol at Edward Street and Prescott Centre Drive when she observed a vehicle that turned into the McDonald's parking lot. The vehicle was being driven erratically; the officer activated her roof lights and stopped the vehicle. The driver appeared to have been consuming alcohol and was arrested and taken for a breathalyzer test. A 26-year-old Spencerville man was later charged with impaired driving and is to appear in court at a later date.

Constable Barr was dispatched to the vacant convenience store on Edward Street on Friday at 11:18 pm. Two windows on the north side and two windows on the east side of the building had been smashed. There was no estimate of damage. The investigation continues.

Also on Friday, Constable Johnston investigated a shoplifting case at O'Reilly's. A 16-year-old Prescott male was arrested by security personnel at the store and turned over to police. He was issued a formal written warning under the terms of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences in the Prescott patrol zone or in Augusta or Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal townships is asked to contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

GRENVILLE COUNTY OPP ­ TOWNSHIPS NEWS

Engine pushed into cab of truck

EDWARDSBURGH ­ A transport driver is lucky to be alive following a serious two-truck crash on Highway 401 last Wednesday afternoon.

A 2000 International was travelling at about 50 to 60 kilometres an hour when it entered the westbound lanes of Highway 401 at County Road 22 (Shanly Road) at about 2 pm when it was struck from behind by a 2004 Freightliner. The impact pushed the engine of that tractor into the cab, coming to rest between the driver and passenger seats. The driver, a Deseronto man, sustained facial injuries and was taken to Brockville General Hospital, treated and released. The other driver was not injured.

Westbound traffic was rerouted for several hours. Charges are pending. Constable Jones is the investigating officer.

Booze taken from Maitland residence

MAITLAND ­ An overnight break-in at a McLean Boulevard residence is being investigated by Constable Butcher. The incident was reported last Wednesday at about 10:52 pm. Someone had entered the garage and removed a quantity of liquor. That morning, a neighbour found a knapsack containing some of the missing alcohol; these items were seized for forensic identification. Anyone with information is asked to call the OPP at 925-4221.

Firewood taken, ramp burned

EDWARDSBURGH ­ A quantity of firewood was stolen from a Windmill Road cottage. A ramp on the cottage had been set on fire. The incident, which was reported last Tuesday morning, occurred sometime during the previous two weeks. Constable Blanchette is investigating.

Police respond to false alarms

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

Sixty-six of those calls originated in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal; 45 came from Augusta, and another 27 involved Highway 401.

Of the 15 false alarm calls handled by local officers, six involved 9-1-1. Police remind the public not to use 9-1-1 except in emergency situations. For non-emergencies, call 1-888-310-1122.

Railway safety to be highlighted next week

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The Ontario Provincial Police will visit elementary schools in Prescott next week to discuss railway safety. The OPP will also conduct trespassing enforcement checks beside the rail line next week as part of Railway Safety Week.

A CN Rail officer will also be in the area to promote railway safety. A special display is expected to visit level crossings in the area later in the week. See next week's Journal for more details.

Chamber of Commerce pledges its support to library, Sunday concert and Harbour Days

JOHNSTOWN ­ The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce has agreed to make donations to three local events and campaigns.

Directors of the local business organization voted last Wednesday to contribute $1,200 this year to the Prescott Public Library rejuvenation project. The Chamber is pledging a total of $6,000 for a five-year period beginning in 2005; the board will have to approve the additional $1,200 donations on an annual basis.

The directors also approved the Chamber's finance committee recommendations to contribute $1,000 to the Harbour Days festival to be held on the Victoria Day long weekend and $500 to the Sunday concert series in July and August at the Kinsmen Amphitheatre.

Committee member Brent Laton noted the Chamber had been donating $300 to the Sunday concert series each year. The committee agreed to the request for $500 because of increasing costs incurred by concert organizers.

The Chamber contributed $1,000 to Harbour Days in past years, according to Laton.

Proceeds from special events held by the Chamber of Commerce are returned to the community in the form of donations to local groups and projects.

The Chamber also paid more than $6,000 for the three South Grenville signs which are posted beside highways 401 and 416 at the eastern, western and northern entrances to the area.

Membership grows, meeting dates changed

JOHNSTOWN ­ Three new members have been welcomed by the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce.

Applications submitted by Nico van Stralen (Dutch Green), Jason Rooney (Red Top Design) and Lynda Cho (Tender Touch Equine Therapy) were accepted by the Chamber's directors last Wednesday.

Chamber of Commerce directors also decided to make another change to their meeting schedule. Monthly lunch meetings had been changed from the third Thursday to the second Wednesday of each month. As of May, Chamber meetings will be held on the third Wednesday of the month.

The next meeting will take place May 18 at the Bridgeview Restaurant.

Cemetery board to meet on May 3

MAYNARD ­ The Maynard Cemetery Board will meet on Tuesday, May 3 at 7 pm at the cemetery facility.

All are welcome to attend.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"The next thing you know they're going to need some carpet and air conditioning in there as well."

Councillor Frank Noccey, referring to animal delivery truck modifications sought by the OSPCA

Editor's Notebook

PLANNING CAN BE INTERESTING: A bit of a chicken-and-egg scenario has emerged as part of Prescott's downtown revitalization plan. Based on feedback obtained at the follow-up public workshop held last Wednesday, it appears some of the participants in the process do not like the emphasis the waterfront is getting in the concepts being put forward by the consulting firm. There is a concern the river is getting all the attention at the expense of King Street. After all, the purpose of this exercise is to rejuvenate the downtown area, and King Street serves as the town's main street.

But isn't the waterfront area between the harbour and Coast Guard base also part of downtown? Doesn't a vibrant waterfront with attractions which bring residents and visitors to the main street area mean more business for downtown merchants? The waterfront is part of downtown, and we should take full advantage of that opportunity.

Perhaps the presentation made last week placed a bit too much emphasis on the waterfront. The words "Waterfront Redevelopment" appeared in big letters on the conceptual map and oversized checklists used in the discussion groups were hard to miss. In fairness, though, the consultants are correct when they say it is up to the community to decide on a plan and run with it.

We have cast doubts on the long-range value of planning processes and consultants' reports in previous editions of the notebook (for example, references to reports gathering or collecting dust on a shelf), and we still have our reservations about the effect the current process will have. However, we acknowledge there appears to be some interest and excitement being created by this planning exercise ­ a difficult task given how dry planning issues can be. This plan might actually give downtown Prescott a brighter future and give the naysayers reason to be optimistic for a change.

RESIST THE TEMPTATION: As much as it must be tempting for the Conservatives to take their chance now and force the badly-bruised Liberals into an early election, we must take note of the public opinion polls which continue to indicate most voters do not want to go back to the polls anytime soon.

Yes, the media are playing up the fact political parties and riding associations are dusting off campaign signs and preparing for a federal election (the second in less than a year). Of course, the Tories sense the government is theirs for the taking. Even if the Conservatives can only come up with a minority win, it is unlikely the Liberals or any other party would take down the Tories and force yet another premature and unwanted election.

All we want the federal parties to do is listen to the people. They still do not seem to be interested in an election. The politicians who say they represent their constituents should listen to what they have to say on the subject before they trigger what some suggest will be a needless election which might not turn out the way any or all of the parties would like.

Tim Ruhnke

It might be cute, but car isn't "Smart" enough for everyone

BLAKE'S TAKES by Blake McKim

A couple of weeks ago, I had the opportunity to test drive a Smart car. These cars, if you don't know, are small two-seater vehicles which were recently brought over to North America by the Mercedes-Benz dealership organization. They've been in Europe since the late '90s, and have proven reasonably popular in large urban centres there.

The cars attract a lot of attention because of their size - at only about eight feet long, they are roughly half the size of a "regular" small car. I've heard some automotive journalists refer to it as a "golf cart on steroids."

It didn't drive like any golf cart I'd ever driven. In fact, once you climb inside, it feels just like a regular car, except that it's a little higher and narrower than a typical one. Its 800-cc diesel engine is mounted behind the seats, and seemed to have a reasonable amount of pep, although just driving it around Ottawa, one couldn't get a full impression of how the car would do on the highway.

When I was at the dealership, one of the salesmen gestured to a gas-sucking behemoth in the parking lot and said that, on average, he appraises 15 SUVs a week being traded in by people who want to drive something smaller. And while not everyone is willing to downsize to a pint-sized Smart, it seems today's stratospheric gas prices are making many people rethink driving a vehicle which uses lots of it.

But even though it was a fun ride, I question whether a Smart car is necessarily the answer for conserving fuel resources. Certainly, it isn't a car for families; it has only two seats and a tiny amount of space for cargo. It isn't for the light of wallet either; a price over $20,000 with options is a lot for a vehicle which is half the size of most small cars.

It seems Canadians are interested in the Smart. The initial Canadian allotment of 1,000 cars was almost all sold out before they even came here. Now, if you want one, you have to get on a waiting list to order one, which takes a few months.

A friend of mine has decided to order a Smart from the factory in France. He sees it as the ideal car for himself; however, he is not buying it as his only car. Instead, it's going to be his "town car", as he has several other larger cars to use for longer trips or for the times when he has to take more than one passenger.

However, I know many people (myself included) can't afford more than one vehicle, and for them (unless they're single and/or friendless) something like the Smart just wouldn't do.

It's clear we need vehicles which are less wasteful of fuel, but it's also key that such vehicles be practical. Café transportation like the Smart, as cute and efficient as it is, really isn't the answer to our long-term fuel conservation and environmental considerations.

Premier to announce Prescott waterfront funding: 1985

FROM THE ARCHIVES

April 17, 1985

* Ontario Premier Frank Miller is expected to make a major announcement on funding for a Prescott waterfront development project east of Edward Street this week.

The premier will make the announcement during a stop in town which will include a visit to the campaign office of Carleton-Grenville MLA and Progressive Conservative candidate Norm Sterling. Ontarians will be going to the polls May 2.

* As former Prescott mayor H.G. "Bud" Johnson continues to voice concerns about the way town council is planning to finance a new water filtration plant, a Ministry of the Environment report shows the quality of the municipal water supply is deteriorating. The report states the raw water coming from the St. Lawrence River is of poor quality, and some treated water samples have been "doubtful and unsafe." Although the existing plant is well-operated, the ministry indicates the equipment is old and difficult to adjust.

* Barrel #1 crossed the finish line first at the Edwardsburgh volunteer fire department's annual race on the South Nation River.

* Barry Bekkedam says being cut from the midget basketball team at South Grenville District High School was the right move. The seventeen-year-old Prescott native is now a high school all-star at Archbishop Carroll in Philadelphia. In his first season with the Patriots, Bekkedam averaged 17 points a game after the Christmas break.

He is expected to get plenty of attention from college scouts. The possibility of a pro career is lurking, but Bekkedam says he is thinking about getting a good education. After that, he will consider the NBA.

* Todd Gill was a special guest at the Cardinal-Iroquois Minor Hockey Association's annual banquet. A graduate of the local system, the 19-year-old member of the Windsor Spitfires has signed a contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs and saw some action with the NHL club this season.

Gill presented the Rusty Crawford Trophy for most improved player to Michael Mason. Association Vice-President Larry Dishaw received the Dave Jones Trophy for contributing most to minor hockey during the past season.

Canada's first election reality show would be riveting to watch

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

So it looks like we have another election coming up. We have corruption and scandal and lies and drama. Yawn. Most Canadians don't care, as they expect to be lied to, screwed over and cheated by the government.

But there is one thing that the government could do to fight voter apathy and crank up the average Canadian voter's give-a-crap metre.

It would be ­ are you sitting? ­ Canada's first election reality show.

It would be sooooo freaking cool!

It could take place somewhere remote, like Baffin Island. We all had to learn about Baffin Island in public school, so why not make it useful.

I could see it now. "Stay tuned to CBC. After Wonderland, get ready to take part in the nation's first reality election. Catch it all on This Island Has 22 Candidates, hosted by Rick Mercer."

Suddenly, it's time to pull yourself out of the garden at the cottage or put down your can of beer and turn off curling. Elections are boring and passé, but a reality show!

This will be even better than Canadian Idol and Making the Cut!

We will start with 22 candidates. There will be a red team of Liberals, a blue team of Conservatives, and an "other" team of Bloq, NDP and Green party candidates that will be allowed to take part in the immunity challenges to try and foil the red and blue teams, though they cannot win. However, you can only vote for a member of the "other" team if you are a registered treasonist, a socialist or an environmentalist.

After each challenge, either the red team or the blue team would be immune for the week. Canadians would call in and vote one of the members from the losing team off the island. Before voting would begin, a celebrity panel of Canadian judges would scientifically break down the performances of each candidate during the show.

You would have to have equal red and blue representation on the panel, plus at least one whackjob celebrity dedicated to the "other" team. I'm sure Bruce Cockburn is free for the next few months.

So how about a celebrity panel that could have Don Cherry, Bubbles from Trailer Park Boys, Tom Green, Jesse Palmer, Margaret Atwood, Stompin' Tom, Joni Mitchell, Sheila Copps and Pamela Anderson. It could be fine-tuned, but it's a start. Other guest panelists may come and go as the season goes on.

For the immunity challenges, the candidates would travel to different parts of Canada to try and solve local issues.

For example, in the first week the politicians could all go to B.C. and then try and smuggle as much softwood lumber into Washington State through the I-5 border crossing. Of course, this would have to be done without showing a Canadian passport to the U.S. customs official. The team smuggling the most lumber in would win that week's challenge.

Then, the contestants would move on to Alberta where they would smuggle beef cattle into Calispell, Montana. The team that sells the most head of cattle to the Americans wins that week's challenge.

Of course, it would not all be about smuggling.

There could be a Newfoundland challenge, where the red and blue teams would try to club baby seals while members of the "other" team would try to stop the contestants by macing them.

In Ontario's challenge, each contestant would be forced to try and find a doctor for his or her family. That would be a tough one.

The second Ontario challenge would have the contestants try and outwait each other for emergency room services in a hospital.

In Manitoba, contestants could wait for a bus at the corner of Portage and Main and try not to freeze to death.

The Quebec challenges would be great for ratings. The first challenge would be to get as many golf balls signed by celebrities as possible. The second challenge would be to sell advertising sponsorships for the reality show, and then to see how much of that money can be secretly kicked back to your own team.

Then there are other non-regional challenges. For example, you must allow two gay men to marry, and then you must convince them they are legally married while convincing the rest of the public that it is just a civil union, which has the same rights as a marriage but is not a marriage. Wow. That will be a good one.

So there it is. That's how I would hold the next election. The whole thing would be done by a 1-800 number.

The nation would be riveted for months, and suddenly, gasp, Canada would care about politics.

And if ratings aren't good enough, there is always the Belinda Stronach trump card.

After all, what's a reality show without a hot chick walking around in a bathing suit?

SCHOOL SCENE

Algonquin Public School: Under the leadership of teachers Margot Snow and David Buckland, Algonquin students jumped rope Friday in their support of the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser.

In addition to the skipping commitment made by students to meet their obligations to their pledges, all students participated in the event, striving to achieve quality daily physical education standards. Many students also had the opportunity to showcase their special skipping talents.

Fourteen students practised our Character Counts trait of self-discipline and worked out two noon hours per week throughout March to learn special skipping routines. As a finale to the event, these "Algonquin Skipping All Stars showcased six different routines ranging from one-foot crossovers and pass the rope to twirl jumps. This "heart-warming" activities had students working up a thirst. Students were especially appreciative of the drinks provided by Giant Tiger.

They are also very proud to have participated in Algonquin's 23rd year supporting the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Boundary Street Public School: The student Grade 8 graduation committee continues to raise funds through school activities.

Pizza lunches and bakes sales have been well supported by students and staff. The next bake sale will be Friday morning. All proceeds will be used for the Grade 8 graduation activities at the end of June.

Graduation photos will be taken on May 4. An information package has been sent home.

This Friday is an early dismissal day. Students will be dismissed at 11:35 am and bus students will be picked up prior to noon. Because of this day, hot lunch (Kentucky Fried Chicken) will be served on Thursday.

Central Public School: Kindergarten registration went well on Friday, April 15. We look forward to welcoming our new students in September. There is still time to register; call 925-2777.

Ms. Graham's students are enjoying their spring unit on insects, especially learning about their ladybug friends.

Students will enjoy using the outdoor equipment being purchased for their use by our school committee.

Ms. Penney's class has a bake sale April 27-29 to raise funds for the upcoming field trip to Carleton University.

Grades 3-8 have done a fantastic job presenting their French plays, Les Trois Petits Couchons. Madame Ritchie is very proud of the effort students put into their productions.

Track and field practices begin next week.

Ms. Ritchie and Mr. Pratt received two new science units, a glider kit and a model motorized vehicle they will be using with their students.

Mrs. MacKay's Grade 4 science class has completed a very successful unit on lights rays and is beginning its unit on pulleys and gears.

St. Joseph Catholic School: Friday, April 22 is Early Dismissal Day. Students will head home at noon.

We are proud to announce Toonie for Autism Day will be Friday, April 22.

When students and staff donate their toonie for autism, they win the privilege of wearing a hat or cap of their choice in school that day. We will be helping to raise research funds and promote autism awareness.

The Grade 4 classes are having two bake sales to raise money for the Sarah Spencer Memorial Park on Churchill Road. The next bake sale will be Tuesday, April 26.

Only one week until our Grade 7 students leave for Quebec City.

Both St. Mark and St. Joseph schools will celebrate the beginning of Catholic Education Week Sunday, May 1 at the 11 am mass at St. Mark's Church.

We are hoping as many students and their families as possible will come to celebrate the unique privilege of Catholic education. Father Appelman will welcome one and all!

St. Mark Catholic School: We celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Week by saluting our volunteers who do so much for St. Mark.

We will host a volunteer tea Thursday, April 21 at 1 pm in our gymnasium to say "thank you."

On Monday, we cleaned up our school yard and checked our adopted tree. Tuesday, we had a challenge to only use three minutes to run our shower or bath water at home.

Today (Wednesday), we host a care with cookies bake sale with proceeds being donated to the Sarah Spencer Park.

Thursday, we will host a reuse a book exchange. Students can reuse a book they've read and exchange it with someone in their class.

On Earth Day (Friday, April 22), Jack and Jackie from Grenville land stewardship will bring our butterfly terrarium and set it up in the hallway for all to view.

Hot lunch this week is hamburgers.

South Edwardsburg Public School: In recognition of Volunteer Week, the students and staff of South Ed would like to take time to honour all of our terrific volunteers who have played such a vital role in making our school great.

At 10:30 Friday morning, come out and make a difference in our community. Students and staff will be out in the community to beautify our subdivision.

Each group will be assigned one street to pick up garbage and debris. We welcome the community to join us in celebrating Earth Day.

Parents and guardians are reminded Friday is early dismissal day, and students will be going home at lunch time.

Friday afternoon is Kindergarten registration. If you have a child that will be four years of age before the end of December and would like to attend South Edwardsburg Public School, please call 925-4183 as soon as possible.

Hot lunch today is chicken nuggets.

Be crafty on Tuesdays and Wednesdays

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

Walker House is a meeting place. People with a common interest meet and enjoy the company of others. Tuesday afternoons, a craft group meets.

Each person brings their own craft project to work on while enjoying the conversation and a cup of tea with others. Some rug hook, embroider, knit, crochet or work on the puzzle, while another group is weaving.

Another similar group has started Wednesdays at 10 am. While this started as a needle-stitching group, we also have knitters. We are able to help you if you are stuck on your project. If you would like to keep in touch with others once or twice a week, why don't you bring your project and join us?

Don't forget to sign up for the "soup" lunch next Friday, April 29 at 11 am. The soup will be a choice of veggie noodle or fish chowder. Call 925-5300.

Card game winners last week: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Valerie Schulz; 2nd, Kitty Wormington; door, Andy Britnell. Fun bridge ­ Ruth Wenger. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Charlie Steiner; 2nd, Jim Campbell. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Hilda Hutton; 2nd, Jessie Shaver; 3rd, Jeannine Marion; door, Dora Cook.

Pool tournament supports United Way

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE ­ The fourth annual Pricedex Corporate 8-Ball Challenge pool tournament in support of the local United Way will take place this Friday, April 22 in Brockville.

The "fun" tournament will run from 12:30 to 5 pm at the Broad Street Bar and Billiards and at the Brass Rack. Teams of five players will take part; this year's event features a large prize table, including draw prizes such as a trip for two to New York City. There will also be dart shoots and door prizes.

The $150 entry fee is tax-deductible.

Reserve a spot in the pool tournament by calling Eileen Hollran at Pricedex Software (341-9200, ext. 115) or the United Way of Leeds and Grenville office at 342-8889.

Council approves cap for truck in response to OSPCA concerns

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council agreed Monday to a pre-budget approval of $1,200 for a truck cap for the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal bylaw enforcement officer's vehicle.

Council voted in favour of making the pre-budget approval following complaints from the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) noted concerns with the township transporting dogs to the pound under a truck's tunnel cover and notified they would be fined if the practice were to continue.

After discussion at a previous council meeting, Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated various prices of truck caps had been looked into and there was a truck cap in Perth which would fit the township bylaw enforcement officer Chris Arseneault's truck at a cost of $1,200.

"We have to do something for the SPCA or they might not take us anymore," said Taylor. "We don't have a lot of options."

Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey once again indicated his displeasure with the idea of purchasing a cap just for a township contracted employee to bring animals to the pound.

"I'm not in favour of a cap for the truck," explained Noccey. "It's not cold out anymore and the cap wouldn't fit any other truck or township vehicle. It would be a different story if it were for a township truck. What would we do if there was a change in bylaw officers?"

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan indicated the truck cap would still remain the property of the township and it could sell it if Arseneault was no longer under contract with the township.

Ward One Councillor Hugh Cameron indicated to council he had found a cap which would run about $1,000 after taxes which should fit the vehicle and would be passing along the information to Arseneault.

Noccey indicated he was still not in favour of the purchase of a cap for this purpose and requested a recorded vote from council; he was the lone person at the council table to vote against the approval.

"The next thing you know they're going to need some carpet and air conditioning in there as well," Noccey remarked.

Taylor indicated the township didn't wish to spend more than $1,200 on the cap and indicated it would go with the best rate it could get on the cap, with Arseneault instructed to continue looking for a cap in Auto Trader and other publications.

Grant asks council to review spending by Edwardsburgh/Cardinal fire dep't.

SPENCERVILLE - Township resident Pat Grant appeared before council for the second time in as many months Monday requesting Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council review its budgeting policy for their fire department.

Grant told council she is concerned with the amount of money being budgeted to the township's volunteer fire department. Grant indicated Augusta council received the same one-time provincial grant of $50,000 for the fire department in municipalities with populations of up to 10,000 people, but Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal's Fire Department budget is two times higher.

"We're giving out honourariums on top of honourariums," Grant told council. "Last year, Station 2 (in Cardinal) went to 151 calls, which was a lot more than before amalgamation and received honourariums of $40,810. Station 1 (in Spencerville) responded to 140 calls and got $34,818 in honourariums. Grant indicated, before amalgamation, Station 1 never went to calls on the 416 and their amalgamation was supposed to save us money, but it's costing the taxpayers more."

Grant indicated she hopes council would look into a method in which the volunteer firefighters would receive a smaller honourarium and hoped to see a tax benefit for firefighters so they would be able to keep more money instead of having to pay the taxes on anything over $1,000.

"I'm a proud supporter of the firefighters," said Grant. "Cutting their budget back would not be a politically rewarding decision, but neither would be raising our taxes to cover this uncontrolled spending. We need to separate the wants from the needs."

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor told Grant she made some interesting points which will be taken into account when council does their budget consideration.

Correction

An article published last week stated Grenville County OPP were investigating a broken window at O'Reilly's Grocery in Cardinal. A broken window at a nearby residence on Dundas Street was reported to police, but no window at the store was broken.

Although the article was based on inaccurate information provided by the OPP, The Journal apologizes for the error.

Township selects gravel supplier

SPENCERVILLE - Township council approved the selection of Tackaberry and Sons Construction Ltd. to provide gravel to Edwardsburgh/Cardinal for 2005.

Of the three bids opened by township officials,Tackaberry provided the low bid of $6.94/tonne for $104,100.

The other bids were Cornwall Gravel at $8.20/tonne for $123,000 and Cruickshank Construction Ltd. at $7.95/tonne for $119,250.

Cruickshank had won the bid in 2004 at $7.25/tonne.

Model railroad show to be held this weekend

IROQUOIS ­ The Seaway District Model Railroaders will present their annual show this Saturday, April 23 from 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday, April 24 from 11 am to 4 pm at Seaway District High School in Iroquois.

There will be more than 2,000 square feet of working model railroad displays at the weekend event, making this the largest train show in Eastern Ontario this spring. The show includes historical displays and entertainment.

The "Kids' Zone" offers hands-on model railroading activities for the children.

"Not only do we have some of the best modular railroad displays coming from all over Ontario, but we also have vendors of all gauges of railroad supplies and other displays that promise to be a hit," stated Jason Edge, president of the Seaway club.

Thirteen clubs are taking part in the show, which is presented in conjunction with the Prescott Depot Railroaders.

There will be a canteen selling barbecued hot dogs and hamburgers, snacks and drinks.

Cardinal In Bloom gets growing again

CARDINAL - With the warm weather here, Cardinal In Bloom has begun working on its 2005 campaign.

The Cardinal In Bloom Committee has been working hard behind the scenes for the past few weeks to implement another successful planting and growing season in Cardinal.

The fundraising campaign will be kicked off with a lot of exciting events planned. A street barbecue will be held June 2 on Dundas Street, while the photo contest will also be run again.

The group will once again be holding its annual contest, with flowered homes being judged in August. The theme for the contest is "Colour, Colour Colour!"; "best container gardens" and a new category, "best yard art garden," will be judged.

The children's Largest Sunflower Face Contest will be running again with judging to be held on the Labour Day weekend; the winner will be asked to accompany the Cardinal In Bloom float to show off the winning entry.

Throughout the spring and summer seasons, Cardinal In Bloom will also continue to work on planting trees and shrubs at Benson Park. The committee is also looking for new members and people who are interested in the adopt-a-spot gardening program.

For more information, contact Cardinal In Bloom, P.O. Box 70, Cardinal, K0E 1E0 or call the General Dollar and Party Sense at 657-1764.

MPP's office has living will kits

BROCKVILLE ­ Living will kits are available at the Brockville office of Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman.

The Ontario government has for a number of years provided living will/power of attorney kits containing all the forms and instructions needed to prepare a legal document outlining the care a person would want if he or she becomes incapacitated.

Interest in living will (power of attorney) kits has increased as a result of the high-profile case of an American woman whose plight gained international attention. Terri Schiavo died several days after her feeding tube had been removed. Her husband claimed she had indicated to him before she became incapacitated that she did not want extraordinary measures to be taken to keep her alive. Schiavo's family tried unsuccessfully to have the courts order the feeding tube reinserted.

Runciman stated this case illustrates the significance of making one's feelings on treatment clear to others.

Runciman's constituency office is located at 243 Perth Street. Call 342-9522.

A musical ministry

PRESCOTT ­ Seaway Christian Church will host The Lighthouse Ministry next month.

The ministry consists of Roger and Shirley Pavy, versatile musicians whose music is enjoyed by people of all ages. Concerts will be performed Saturday, May 7 at 7 pm and on Sunday, May 8 at 10:30 am and 6:30 pm at the church on Churchill Road at Massie Drive.

There is no admission fee; there will be free-will offerings.

For more information, call Pastor Barry at 925-5840.

NG goes Brown

KEMPTVILLE ­ The former municipal clerk of Prescott is the new chief administrative officer for North Grenville.

Andrew Brown left Prescott two-and-a-half years ago to become CAO of South Dundas. The Cardinal native will take over the vacant CAO position in North Grenville May 16, the municipality announced Thursday.

Prior to his job in South Dundas, Brown worked for the Town of Prescott for 13 years.

Throwers expected to lead Giants track & field team

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - South Grenville is hoping to have a giant year in the 2005 Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association track and field season.

The Giants have a decent-sized team but are expecting more athletes to join as the weather improves, meets start fast approaching and other sports start finishing.

South Grenville will be taking advantage of its veteran coaching staff to help build on the success of their young team and expect many good things.

Mark Lewis, a former NCAA track athlete himself, is returning as the coach of the team, while Norrie Spence will be working with jumpers and sprinters, Joellen Bauder will be working with the throwers, Legion track coach Bob Tucker and Andy Carruthers will be working with distance runners, Larry Molson will be coming in to help out and student coaches Shannon Thornhill and Amanda Smith will all be doing their part to ensure South Grenville's success.

Two junior athletes will be returning to lead the Giants charge this season with Erika Kamenz, who finished sixth in the triple jump and 11th in the long jump at the Ontario championships, and Andrew McCaw, who narrowly missed qualifying for the provincials in the midget boys triple jump.

"So far we've got about 30 athletes signed up and practising," said coach Spence. "It's a good number of kids, but we're still hoping for and expecting more to sign up. Everyone who is here is keen and is practising hard for the season."

Spence indicated all aspects of the team look to be relatively strong, but noted the South Grenville tradition of good throwers is expected to continue.

"Our throwers look strong this year," explained Spence. "But you can't discount our other events, with jumpers like McCaw and Kamenz, speed from the likes of Mike Froom, Jamie Froats and Jessica Rupert and distance running from Mark Wynands, who will be in a very competitive field of TISS runners we expect a good year."

Spence also noted young throwers Zoe Kamenz, Scott Baker and Clayton Dunnington have been keen and really coming on strong and wouldn't be surprised if they turned some heads.

"It should be a great season," indicated Spence. "We're
hoping for good weather and a good and fun season for all the kids. For being an individual sport, this is one of the most social activities and has a lot of teamsmanship."

The Giants will start its
season Tuesday, April 19 with the TISS Relays at Thousand Islands Secondary School in Brockville.

South Grenville will also compete at the Bay of Quinte Invitational Meet in Belleville April 29 and the Kinsmen Meet May 6-7 in Brockville before heading off to the LGSSAA championships May 10 in Brockville.

Midget Blues win bronze at tournament

CORNWALL - The Brockville Blues midget boys regional basketball team put together a good weekend on its way to a bronze medal at the Cornwall Lions Invitational tournament April 8-9.

In their opener, the Blues dropped a 65-40 decision to the top-ranked Cornwall Lions club. The Blues trailed 28-20 at the half and came out strong to narrow the lead to four points, before the Lions pulled away for good. South Grenville District High School Grade 10 student Josh Parsons led the Blues with a 22-point performance, followed by Joe Dunn with eight and Tim Nedow with eight.

In their second game, the Blues managed to pull out a 57-37 win over Renfrew, despite struggling early on. Parsons scored 17 to pace the Blues, while Greg Holowack added 11 and Dunn and Nedow chipped in eight apiece.

In the quarter-final, the Blues were able to pull out a 54-50 decision over the Gloucester Wolverines, thanks to clutch free-throw shooting from Holowack, Cathon Moore and particularly Cody Haché who hit seven-of-eight from the line to ice the game. Parsons scored 13 to lead the Blues, followed by Haché with 12, Holowack with 10 and Nedow with seven.

In the semi-final, the Blues dropped a close 50-44 decision to Ottawa Sirius. The Blues rallied from 15 down and held the Sirius to 10 points in the second half, until the final minutes when Brockville was forced to foul. Nedow scored 23 for the Blues, followed by Tyler Knowles with 10 and Parsons with eight.

In the bronze medal game, the Blues saw everything come together in a 58-54 victory over the Kingston Runnin' Rebels. Brockville led 29-26 at the half and once again managed to hold on for the victory with clutch free throw shooting. The Blues got balanced scoring across the board, with Parsons and Moore each scoring 14, while Nedow added 12. The Blues also recieved strong defensive play and rebounding from Dunn, Ryan Patterson and Chris Duffy.

On April 17, the Blues travelled to Peterborough and suffered some fatigue as they posted a 1-2 record at a one-day tournament in Peterborough.

In game one, the Blues posted a 54-39 victory over the Whitby Saints, after producing a dominant defensive performance which saw Brockville take a 33-16 lead into the half. Ryan Amrstrong and Haché each had strong showings making plays, while Nedow scored 19 points to lead the Blues. Parsons added 12, while Knowles chipped in with eight.

The Blues came out flat in game two, getting beaten to loose balls and trailing 42-16 at the half before eventually losing 60-34 to the Niagara Thunder. Nedow and Parsons each scored 12 in the loss.

In the final, the Blues continued to struggle, scoring only eight points in the first half for a 44-35 loss to the Belleville Spirits. The Blues came alive in the second half cutting the lead to eight points in the third quarter, but ran out of time and were forced to foul in the final minutes. Top scorers were not available.

Giants girls soccer teams play Thursday

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants girls soccer teams will kick off their seasons at home Thursday with a mini-tournament at the high school.

The Giants junior girls will kick off the day against the North Grenville Knights at noon, with the senior Giants taking on the senior Knights at 1 pm.

North Grenville's juniors will take on the Athens Warriors
at 2 pm, with the senior girls
teams to follow at approximately 3 pm.

The junior Giants will then play the junior Warriors at 4 pm, with the South Grenville-Athens senior girls match-up to close out the day at 5 pm.

All games will have 25 minute halves.

On Tuesday, April 26, the Giants will be hosting the Rideau Lions. The junior girls teams will kick off at 2 pm, with the seniors to follow at approximately 3:30 pm.

Senior games regionals start in May

LEEDS AND GRENVILLE - The Ontario Senior Games Association area B games is getting set to kick off its 2005 season in May.

The group is a non-profit organization which provides a variety of events for seniors over the age of 55 years.

The games provide a chance for seniors to get out and meet old friends, while making new ones, through friendly competition.

On Tuesday, May 3, the games will start with carpet bowling at the Roebuck Community Hall.

On Thursday, May 5, bid euchre will be held at the Brockville Club 85 and on Friday, May 6, bridge will be played at Walker House in Prescott.

On Monday, May 9, euchre is scheduled for the Brockville Legion, while action will return
to Prescott Tuesday, May 10 with darts at the Prescott Legion.

Wednesday, May 11 will feature events in Brockville with shuffleboard held at the Brockville Legion and swimming held at the YMCA.

On Monday, May 16, cribbage will be held at the Legion in Brockville, while horseshoes will also be played at the Roebuck Community Hall.

On Tuesday, May 17, there will be golf (with an additional green fee) held at Sunnidell Golf Club in Brockvile. The rain date is Tuesday, May 24.

On Friday, May 20, walking will be held at the Thousand Islands Secondary School track in Brockville.

On May 20-22, the Prescott Tennis Club will play host to the tennis competition and on Wednesday, May 25, lawn bowling is scheduled at the Brockville Lawn Bowling Club. The rain date for lawn bowling is Thursday, June 2.

All events start at 10 am except swimming, which is scheduled from 1-3 pm.

First and second place winners will advance to the District #9 games in Kemptville on Thursday, June 9.

Registration forms are available Wednesday afternoons at the VON office in Prescott or the Brockville Legion.

There is a small registration fee to register; participants are able
to enter as many events as they wish.

For more information, contact Jean at 658-2845 or Joanne at 348-1481.

Domville mixed ball holding final sign-up

DOMVILLE - The Domville Super Dave Fryday Night Mixed League is holding its final registration session tonight.

Teams will consist of six men and four women, with each team drafting eight players over the age of 30 and four players between 20 and 30 years old.

Registration will run from 6 pm until 9 pm at the Domville Ball Diamonds.

There is a fee to register

For more information, contact Dean or Kim Bologna at 925-1696.

Registration tonight for mixed slow pitch

PRESCOTT - Registration will be starting today (Wednesday, April 20) for the Prescott Mixed Slow Pitch League.

The session is scheduled to run from 7 until 8 pm at the Prescott Fire Hall.

A second registration session will be held this Saturday, April 23 from 9:30 until 11 am at the fire hall.

All players much be at least 18 years of age to compete.

Payment is due upon registration in order to take part in the upcoming season.

For more information call Paula at 925-1137.

Gunners seek coaches

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Gunners adult soccer teams are looking for coaches for the upcoming season.

Coaches are still needed for the men's competitive 4 and men's recreation 6 Gunners soccer teams.

Anyone interested should
contact Steve McCurdy at 342-5994 or Art Hitsman at 734-8486, 925-1315 or 349-1315.

SGMHA to elect new executive April 27 at Prescott Fire Hall

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association is hosting its annual general meeting April 27 at 6 pm at the Prescott Fire Hall.

Everyone is welcome to attend and anyone wishing to make changes to the constitution must submit them in writing to secretary Lou Anne Hamilton at RR1, Cardinal, ON, K0E 1E0 at least 72 hours prior to the meeting.

The meeting will also feature the election of the 2005-06 SGMHA executive.

There are many positions in SGMHA left to fill. Come out and make a difference and get involved in minor hockey.

Maynard to host Ontario 3-pitch softball qualifying tournament

MAYNARD - There will be an Ontario 3-pitch softball qualifying tournament held in Maynard this year.

Mens and ladies divisions will run April 30 to May 1.

Coed and masters coed (over 35) divisions will be held May 7 to May 8.

There is a fee to register a team for the tournament, with each team guaranteed a minimum of four games. Come out and battle for the bragging rights.

For more information or to register, call 926-1501 or e-mail sportsetc62@yahoo.ca.

Prescott Little League baseball holding registration Saturday

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Little League baseball league is looking toward a resurgence for the 2005 season.

The league will be holding a registration session this Saturday, April 23 from 9 am
until 11 am at Prescott town hall at 360 Dibble St. W.

The league will have divisions for boys and girls between the ages of five and 18.

Come out and enjoy the summer pastime by getting involved in Prescott Little League baseball.

For more information on the league, call 925-2297.

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