Invista union rejects offer

Members overwhelmingly turn down tentative deal; Maitland strike continues

By Blake McKim - Journal Staff Writer

MAITLAND - Even though Invista was optimistic that a settlement had been reached with its 350 striking workers at the Maitland Site, the union voted Monday to reject the company's latest offer

CEP Local 28-0 President Steve Armstrong said 83.4 per cent of the 326 members who voted on the new collective agreement rejected the latest offer. He stated that 326 people voted. The vote was 272-53, with one spoiled ballot

"The main part of the collective agreement (which was problematic) was the return to work protocol," stated Armstrong. He added this protocol indicated that workers in certain areas would be brought back, while workers in other areas may not.

Armstrong stated this provision means that the site-wide seniority of workers, which has been in place since the mid-1970's, would be disregarded. "They don't have to follow seniority," he stated

Armstrong also stated he had "heard rumours" Invista may be winterizing the KA (ketone alcohol) and adipic acid portions of Maitland site. "160 people are tied into adipic (and) KA... If they don't start (the plant) all those people could be laid off."

Armstrong also said another "brutal and cruel" aspect of the return to work protocol is that it would force the striking workers to pay the full benefits package - including the company's contribution - for the last 15 weeks. He added this amount worked out to approximately $330,000.

At the vote held Monday at the MERC Hall, Armstrong said response to the latest offer and return to work protocol was not good. "People were in shock and mad," he said. He also added he sensed "despair" on the part of some of the workers at the vote.

When asked what the union will do now, Armstrong said "We've relayed the information to the company; they've agreed to meet again."

A prepared statement received from Invista spokesperson Mark Lichty late Monday night stated "Union members at Invista's Maitland Site failed to ratify the negotiated settlement in a vote conducted on Monday, September 19, despite the union's bargaining committee's written commitment to unanimously recommend ratification to their members. It is our understanding the committee did not do so."

The statement goes on to say "The company is disappointed that the union bargaining committee failed to live up to their commitment," and that Invista is "not optimistic about a settlement with the union given these circumstances."

When asked on Thursday what effects a prolonged strike has had on the non-union staff inside the plant, Lichty stated "We have well-trained, non-union employees who have continued to operate the facility, and are doing so with no compromise to safety."

He added last week Invista believes the proposed settlement was the "right resolution" which will provide the basis for Maitland to be competitive both currently and in the future.

"The people (on strike) are all upset," stated Armstrong. "This (strike) never ends... It's a killer."

He also said the prolonged strike, which as of today has been going on for 110 days, has been "really hard" for those on strike. "They're not making any money...they've had to pick up odd jobs," he stated.

Union members on strike draw $250 per week provided they show up for eight hours of strike duty per week.

South Grenville marks 25 years of Terry's run

By Blake McKim - Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The community came out in large numbers to run, walk, ride, rollerblade, and kayak at the 25th annual Terry Fox Run held Sunday on Prescott's waterfront.

"It was a wonderful success," stated organizer Sharon Spychi. She added the event had 197 participants, which she believed to be one of the highest number of people who have participated in the event.

As of Monday, the amount of money collected by the run was $13,051.82.

Spychi believes the greater number of participants had to do with the fact that the run had greater public exposure this year in the media because of the 25th anniversary of the event and the movies which have been played on television about Fox's life.

The community members who participated did so for a variety of reasons. Mark Dirksen of Prescott stated he was using the event to train for a marathon he's participating in next week. He added by participating, he was supporting a "good cause"

Dirksen also stated he has a personal reason for participating in the event, saying in the last two years two friends of his, who are both runners and healthy people, have had their lives affected by cancer.

"This disease is genetic... It can happen to anyone," he added. Dirksen also stated it was the first time he had participated in the run in Prescott.

Missy Schutten, 8, of Shanly stated her reasons for participating in the run was "because Terry Fox did it for cancer... I do it to raise money for cancer." she added she also hoped to beat her mother in the event.

Prescott's Mayor Robert Lawn spoke before the official start of the event, saying that he was principal at South Grenville District High School 25 years ago when the students there held the first Terry Fox run. "I'm delighted after 25 years it's still going on," he said.

"Every nation has it's heroes... Terry (Fox) is one of our greatest," he added, also stating that Fox has become a hero for the fight against cancer in many countries other than Canada.

Lawn also honoured a number of people who have participated in the run each year for the past 25 years, including Donna Greenhorn and Tom Campbell.

Spychi stated the run is also important because it brings the communities in the area together. She also said the event raises public awareness about cancer, particularly among younger people.

"It's also a fun thing to do with your family," she stated.

This year's run had an alternate way to participate: with the support of the Grenville Fish and Game Club, kayakers also took park. "It's one of the only places you can kayak for the Terry Fox Run," stated Art Milburn. "I can't run anymore.

Spychi, who estimates she has organized the local event for 16 of the 25 years it's been held, also stated she had 33 volunteers who helped with this year's run.

THIS WEEK

Some hurricane relief canvassing is bogus

BROCKVILLE - The local Canadian Red Cross issued a warning Friday about certain people soliciting donations for Hurricane Katrina relief.

These individuals are not affiliated with the Red Cross, according to a news release. Anyone who is approached and wants to verify the legitimacy of the request for money can call the Brockville-area Red Cross office at 342-3523.

Those who want to raise money for Red Cross programs or appeals such as the Katrina response must contact the Red Cross and be approved as a third-party fundraiser.

St. Paul's hosts silent auction and euchre

PRESCOTT ­ St. Paul's United Church is celebrating its 175th anniversary this year, and there will be two special activities held this weekend.

The public is invited to attend a silent auction and euchre tournament on Saturday, Sept. 24 in the church hall on George Street just north of Dibble. The viewing of silent auction items is set for 6:15 pm; bids will open at 6:30 and remain open until the end of the euchre tournament, which starts at 7 pm and is expected to run until about 10 pm.

Card players will be served dessert, tea and coffee during a break in the action. Tournament participants can pay at the door.

The 175th anniversary of St. Paul's will be officially marked in early November.

Community invited to dinner next week

PRESCOTT - This month's Master's Hands community supper will take place next Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 5 to 6:15 pm at Seaway Christian Church.

The dinner for the less fortunate is open to everyone; admission is free.

Seaway Christian is located on Churchill Road at Massie Drive.

Chamber meets at noon

PRESCOTT - The monthly directors meeting of the Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce will take place today (Wednesday) at noon at Grenville Arms on King Street West.

House tour is set for this Saturday

Annual event is fundraiser for local historical society

PRESCOTT - Take a look inside some of Prescott's historic home life on Saturday afternoon.

The annual house tour presented by the Grenville County Historical Society will showcase five houses in town. The event is a major fundraiser for the society.

The 2005 tour runs from 1 to 4 pm and includes stops at:

Seeley House (562 King St. W.)

It is believed the house was built in about 1860. The two-storey rubblestone covered with stucco and painted a soft beige was home to chiropractor Doc Seeley. Double verandas at the front of the building add to the charm of the house, which is being restored by its new owners.

Fischl House (281 Dibble St. W.)

The earliest part of this house was constructed by forwarder Alfred Hooker in 1840; the main house first appears on an 1860 map of Prescott. The two-storey home covered with stucco has logs for roof supports and sawmill beams in the basement. It was purchased in 1956 by Fischl Glove Company founder Louis Fischl and remains in the family.

Dowling House (146 Dibble St. E.)

Built by John Sherwood in 1850, this became a retirement home for William Dowling, Esquire, a wealthy Augusta farmer. The house was once owned by businessman and Prescott Mayor Frederick Evanson, whose daughter Ruth was a beloved teacher. The rubblestone exterior was restored recently. This quaint one-and-a-half-storey home has many surprises and a beautifully-landscaped yard.

The Ark (138 Park St. W.)

This house, which was probably built in the 1850s, is an example of a less ornate structure from the mid-nineteenth century. The building's fortress-like stone walls provide a military atmosphere; the primarily rubblestone walls are rectangular with fairly high gables. The owners have been lovingly restoring this house to its full potential.

Robichaud House (584 Jessup St.)

This two-storey sculpted stone house built in 1915 has been well-maintained and includes its original woodwork. The owner is artist J. Allison Robichaud; many of his works of art can be seen as part of this tour. Visitors can compare the design of this house to similar homes nearby and ask about the friendly resident ghost.

In addition to viewing the five homes, house tour ticket holders are also invited to have tea and refreshments at Walker House, Prescott's adult activity centre located on King Street West at Mary Street.

House tour tickets can be purchased at Young's of Prescott, House of Flowers and Walker House. Tickets will not be sold at participating homes on Saturday.

For more information, call 925-2914.

Prescott is first stop in series of public meetings hosted by Liberal nominee

PRESCOTT - A federal cabinet minister will be joining Leeds-Grenville Liberal candidate Bob Eaton at his town hall meeting in Prescott next Tuesday night.

The public forum, set for Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 7 pm at the Prescott Golf Club, marks the beginning of what Eaton is calling a "20/20 Tour." The Prescott resident will host 20 town-hall meetings this fall in communities throughout the united counties area.

Scheduled to attend the Prescott meeting is International Co-operation Minister Aileen Carroll, MP for Barrie. Carroll told The Journal Friday she knows the Leeds-Grenville riding well through her friend and former Liberal caucus colleague Joe Jordan.

In addition to showing her support for Eaton, Carroll said the Prescott meeting will enable her to hear what people in this part of the country have to say about the issues of the day.

Eaton's other meetings in South Grenville include Sept. 28 at MERC Hall in Maitland, Oct. 4 at the Drummond Building in Spencerville, Oct. 18 at the Cardinal Legion and Oct. 26 at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre in Johnstown.

All the meetings are to start at 7 pm.

Prepare to embark on a colourful tour

SOUTH GRENVILLE - The third annual Seaway Autumn Colour Studio Tour will take place next weekend.

This year's tour will be held on Saturday, Oct. 1 and Sunday, Oct. 2 from 10 am to 5 pm. At least 15 artists and artisans will be on hand at nine tour stops located in Prescott and the surrounding area. Everything from paintings, wood carvings and quilts to jewellery, pottery and photographs will be showcased as visitors go from one tour stop to the next at their own pace.

Visitors can also stop at Walker House on King Street and enjoy lunch and some refreshments. There will also be artists at Walker House to demonstrate their creative talents.

For more information, call 925-3987. See next week's Journal for more details.

Mobile health service could help address local needs, according to VON director

By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor

PRESCOTT - The possibility of health-care service on wheels came up during a presentation to Prescott council Monday night.

Ruth Kitson, executive director of the Lanark, Leeds & Grenville Branch of the VON, outlined the concept of a primary health-care vehicle which would serve residents throughout the tri-county area.

The proposal, which arose from travelling nursing clinics set up by the VON in 2003, has been submitted for approval by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

Kitson noted an estimated 22,000 in the region do not have a family physician. In noting some of the patients at the nursing clinics (including one in Cardinal) already had access to a doctor, Kitson pointed out mobile clinics could also be used to educate the public about important health-related issues. A nurse practitioner could also provide blood screening, glucose and cholesterol testing and monitoring as well as other basic health-care services.

Transportation has been found to be a key obstacle which prevents some people from receiving medical treatment or advice. The mobile clinic would be set up in a recreational vehicle which would not require a special licence to drive, according to Kitson.

She said the local VON is seeking to be part of a pilot project for the mobile clinic, would cost an estimated minimum of $150,000 a year to operate. Kitson said the clinic would offer drop-in service initially rather than by appointment.

Office expansion is still possible

MAYNARD - Augusta Deputy Reeve Bill Buckler believes the proposed expansion of the township office building can still happen this year.

At last Monday night's council meeting, Buckler stated the township expects to get back its plans for the proposed township hall expansion and renovation by Sept. 21 from Eastern Engineering of Brockville.

When asked if September is still a feasible time to begin on the work, Buckler stated "Yes, September is still a reasonable time to get this started... By the end of November if there isn't a shovel in the ground, now we have problems."

Buckler added if the township gets its plans for the new building back and they are approved, the next step would be to put the job out to tenders. He also stated the municipality has done some preliminary work to facilitate the construction, including moving the office's well and made a new temporary parking lot on the east side of the building.

The expansion of the new building was covered in the 2005 budget.

Augusta scraps second meeting in September

MAYNARD - There will be no second council meeting in the Township of Augusta in September.

The township's interim CAO, Linda Robinson, stated Thursday there would be no meeting on Monday, Sept. 26, due to the fact that two councillors will be at a conference. As well, it is the last week for tax bills to be mailed out, which will mean office staff will be very busy.

Residents are reminded the next regularly scheduled council meeting in the township will take place Tuesday, Oct. 11. It would ordinarily take place on the Monday; however it has been pushed back a day because of the Thanksgiving holiday.

The township offices and landfill sites will also be closed Oct. 11.

OPP confirms Prescott office will be replaced

New detachment building for Kemptville also in works

By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor

SMITHS FALLS - Prescott and three other communities in Eastern Ontario will be getting new Ontario Provincial Police detachment buildings, it was announced Friday.

However, the location and cost of the new facility have yet to be confirmed.

OPP Eastern Region indicated Prescott, Kemptville, Gananoque and Prince Edward County will receive new buildings. Ontario Realty Corporation, the provincial government's real estate arm, will issue a request for proposals.

OPP Sergeant Kristine Cholette told The Journal completion of the new Prescott facility would likely take place by the end of 2006.

The existing detachment just south of Highway 401 near the Edward Street-Prescott Centre Drive intersection is the base of Grenville County OPP operations. The aging structure was already too small to meet the needs of the local detachment when several officers and one civilian employee from the disbanded Prescott Police Service were hired by the OPP late last summer.

A site near the intersection of Edward Street and Development Drive just north of Highway 401 has been the subject of discussions involving town and provincial officials. A new facility for the Grenville County detachment had been identified as a top priority in the region; since last year, officials have been indicating they were just waiting for funding to be announced. Inspector Brent Hill, detachment commander, said he would like the new facility to be in close proximity to Highway 401.

Cholette said it is too early in the process to indicate what it will end up costing to replace the detachment offices.

"Having modern, up-to-date facilities that can accommodate the increasing number of officers patrolling our communities in a safe way is vital in ensuring we reach our goal: a secure and safe Ontario," Chief Superintendent Larry Beechey stated in a news release.

A new Leeds County OPP detachment building was constructed at Spring Valley three years ago. "The new buildings and amenities will help the OPP maintain its high-quality service to the citizens of these Eastern Ontario communities in the years to come," stated Community Safety and Correctional Services Minister Monte Kwinter.

The OPP office in Prescott is also the base for officers who patrol Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. The satellite office in Kemptville handles officers assigned to North Grenville and Merrickville-Wolford.

More than 6,000 items collected at Bottom Line Challenge

By Blake McKim - Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Despite the drizzle on Saturday morning, the Bottom Line Challenge for the Food For All Food Bank held at O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer was a great success.

Approximately 6,000 food items were collected at the third annual challenge co-sponsored by The Prescott Journal.

"We're very, very pleased with this year's event," stated food bank coordinator Bonnie Gommert. "(We collected) a little more than last year."

Gommert added the generous donations put the food bank "into good shape" going into the fall season, which typically is a busy one for the bank. She added the foods collected were of a "greater variety" than collected in the past.

"We got lots of stuff we needed," she said. "More fruit cups, puddings... Good for school lunches."

She also said another reason for holding the Bottom Line Challenge is to promote awareness of the food bank's services to the community in addition to filling its shelves for the winter months.

The Bottom Line Challenge is an event in which local community organizations and volunteers pitch in and collect food for the bank, which is then used to spell out a message on the parking lot of O'Reilly's before being loaded into a truck for transport to the food bank. Groups which were involved with this year's efforts included the Interact Club of South Grenville District High School and The Prescott Air Cadets. A total of 14 community groups participated in the event.

The event also brought out a number of local politicians, including Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown and Augusta Deputy Reeve Bill Buckler, Augusta Councillor Pauline Cyr and Prescott Councillors Nancy Lane and Suzanne Dodge.

"I believe, in our lifetime many (in our community) require help," stated Buckler. "It's an opportunity for the community to share the good times with people (who may be experiencing) hard times."

During a brief ceremony, Brown stated "I hope the day comes when we don't have to have food banks, but (now) there are people truly in need in our communities."

Lane stated "I can't say enough about how much the food bank means to our community... It's very important."

Sergeant Jordan Villeneuve of the Prescott Air Cadets stated it's a matter of pride for the cadets to come out and help with the Bottom Line Challenge. "It's my second year doing this," he added.

Bob Wardrop, who is vice-chair of the food bank committee, was quick to credit Gommert for all her hard work. Cyr concurred, stating "Bonnie (Gommert) works so hard."

The Bottom Line Challenge was also sponsored by Q Country 102.9 and O'Reillys.

Townships must take lead role in extending water, sewer lines: CAO

PRESCOTT - Extending town water and sewer lines to Riverview Heights and Johnstown is possible, but Prescott's municipal neighbours would have to lead the project.

Those are some of the points made in response to an environmental assessment study which addresses the possibility of running Prescott's trunk lines west into Augusta and east into Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. The study was financed by the Eastern Ontario Development Fund; a final report was submitted earlier this summer.

In a report to town council Monday, Prescott CAO/Clerk noted the estimated cost of extending the water and sewer lines would be $3.5 million for Augusta and $7.3 million for Edwardsburgh/Cardinal. This does not include piping to streets and homes.

Federal and provincial infrastructure funding has now been secured for a new waste water treatment facility for Prescott. The South Grenville Economic Development Committee identified water and sewer services as a top priority.

Haller told council Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal would likely need access to the town's infrastructure in order to help them grow. The CAO added the issue of extending the trunk lines should "fall to our neighbours to lead," although the town would have to be closely involved.

Council agreed Monday to accept the report filed by Eastern Engineering. The next step would be to discuss the possible financing of the infrastructure project.

The proposed modular design of the new town sewage treatment plant would allow for expansion and higher capacity if the water and sewer lines were to be extended at a later date, according to Haller.

Adult volunteers can serve as mentors to youngsters

LEEDS-GRENVILLE - The in-school mentoring program operated by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville is seeking volunteers.

The volunteers serve as special friends to children in grades 3 to 5. Mentors and mentees meet for one hour a week. They play games, create masterpieces, bake cookies and chat, among other things.

The mentoring program is in its fifth year and now operates at 14 schools in the united counties, including Prescott and South Grenville. As the program grows, so does the need to recruit additional volunteers.

For more information, call Susan at 345-0281 or toll-free at 1-866-344-9972.

Get involved in MERC

MAITLAND NEWS - Jane Fullarton

The Maitland Education and Recreation Corporation will have its Annual General Meeting on Oct. 3 at 7:30 pm at the MERC Hall.

The election of officers will take place at this meeting. Officers for the corporation include, president, vice-president, secretary, treasurer and directors. MERC is also seeking someone to co-ordinate the Maitland Soccer Program and someone to run the Maitland Trails.

Vice-President of MERC, Geoff Noyes, says MERC is having a good year. He credits hall managers Lynne Galvin and Ted Clayton for a large part of that success. He said, "They do a great job at showing and renting the hall. They are really prompt returning calls and getting back to people. They have made a big difference."

Sales of Nevada tickets at the Maitland Store have also been good and add to the bottom line. Other initiatives like the MERC Membership Drive and the Maitland calendar provide revenue for MERC programs and facilities. Noyes says more volunteers are urgently needed to spread the work and responsibilities around. This year, MERC hopes to have a volunteer co-ordinator who will match volunteers to jobs. Helpers for the Maitland calendar, the membership drive and volunteer bartenders are all needed. Consider the many ways MERC benefits the community, and make plans to attend the AGM. With strong community participation and support, MERC and Maitland will only get better.

Join the Spencerville pipe band

SPENCERVILLE - The Spencerville Legion Pipe Band enters its annual growth period with the resumption of lessons in piping and drumming.

In addition to taking part in community events such as concerts and parades, the band has had success in competition at highland games. Members come from throughout Eastern Ontario as well as from northern New York state. The group looks forward to further achievements with the development of young, talented musicians.

Newcomers and experienced players are welcome. For more information, call 345-3498.

OPP ­ SOUTH GRENVILLE TOWNSHIPS NEWS

LED lights removed from dump trucks

MAITLAND - On Saturday morning, the owner of an excavation company located on County Road 2 just west of Maitland reported all the LED lights from six of his dump trucks had been stolen during the night. The total value of the lights is $1,500. Anyone with information about this theft is asked to contact Constable Barr at the Grenville County OPP detachment (925-4221) or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Cigarettes taken in gas bar break-in

EDWARDSBURGH - Ninety packs of cigarettes were stolen from the 730 gas bar on Shanly Road. The break-in was reported at 7:09 Thursday morning. The front door had been smashed. Constable McConnell is investigating.

Suspected impaired driver held at bridge

JOHNSTOWN - Just before 6 pm Thursday, Constable Kavanagh was dispatched to the international bridge in response to a possible case of impaired driving. Upon arriving, the constable arrested and subsequently charged a 62-year-old Brockville man operating a 2003 Pontiac. He was charged with driving while exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit and is scheduled to appear in court Sept. 30.

Driver arrested after pick-up weaves

EDWARDSBURGH - In response to a complaint about a vehicle weaving in the eastbound lanes of Highway 401, OPP Constable Jones stopped the vehicle in question, a 1996 Chevrolet pick-up truck, about two kilometers east of the 730 exit at about 11:59 pm Thursday. The 63-year-old Quebec driver was arrested and charged with driving while over the legal blood alcohol limit. He is scheduled to make a court appearance on Oct. 21.

Items stolen from truck and trailer

EDWARDSBURGH - A number of items were reported stolen from a pick-up truck and cattle trailer parked in a vacant car lot on County Road 2 west of Johnstown. The missing items include two aluminum doors, eight stainless wheel covers, a ramp for the trailer and 19 LED lights. The total value of the stolen property exceeds $1,800. It is believed the theft took place sometime between Friday at 6 pm and Saturday at 3:14 am. The investigator is Constable Pergunas.

Thrown bottle hits trunk of parked car

AUGUSTA - A glass bottle thrown from a passing vehicle struck the trunk of a 2000 Chrysler Neon parked in front of a County Road 15 residence, according to an OPP news release. The incident took place between 10:30 and 10:45 pm Saturday when the owner heard a loud bang and went outside to see what had happened. No damage estimate was available. Constable Harmer is investigating.

Expanded Mayfield celebrates official opening

By Blake McKim - Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The public was treated to a glimpse of the new facilities at Mayfield Retirement Residence Saturday afternoon.

"We had a dream to make one of the best retirement homes in the area," stated Mayfield President and shareholder Robert Pelda during the opening ceremony. "We've fulfilled that dream."

Pelda added the upgrades to the home are close to being complete, with such things as a new fire sprinkler system, a library/chapel and enhancements to both the kitchen and shipping-receiving area to be completed soon. Pelda estimates the new construction and upgrades to the Mayfield totalled $2 million. An estimated 230 people attended the grand opening.

Pelda also gave credit to the many organizations and individuals who helped the project come to fruition, including Eastern Engineering of Brockville, Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation and the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Association. "There are just too many people to mention," he said.

In addition, Pelda offered a special thank-you to residents and staff of the residence for bearing with the construction. "It's just amazing how we all worked together," he added.

The project began in May 2004 with the construction of an elevator shaft. The expansion substantially increased the total square footage of the building from 31,000 square feet to 42,000 square feet. There are 21 new units in the expanded facility, which adds to the 42 existing units.

Pelda added the facility has been able to accommodate "21 new residents - up to 25 with couples."

The new facility boasts upgraded carpeting and fixtures as well as a greatly expanded dining room and a new television theatre on the second floor of the new addition.

A particularly noteworthy aspect of the upgrades at Mayfield are the attractively landscaped grounds, which feature a large fountain at the front entrance and a goldfish pond and fountain in a new central courtyard, called a "wellness garden."

"Our residents are enjoying our fountains (and) outdoor garden areas," he stated. "I've heard no complaints. When I walk down the hallway, every day someone thanks me."

Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn, along with Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown and Pelda, cut the ribbon officially opening the new facility.

"I tell people I was one of the supervisors of the construction," quipped Lawn, adding he lives across the street from the residence.

The new construction also drew praise from a number of people "I like the details... how it ties the old (building) with the new," stated Phil Augustine, who is also one of the shareholders of the Mayfield. "It's nice to see a quality place for older people to live... Function and form have come together."

Sharon McKay, whose mother Kathleen Krieger recently took up residence at the home, stated the Town of Prescott "should be proud" to have such a residence as the Mayfield.

"It's lovely, very homey," stated Edith VanDusen, who was touring the home.

"It's a marvelous project, and something that was needed," stated Teresa Pelda, who is the director of Wiser Hall Inc. which operates both Mayfield and Wiser Hall, another seniors residence in Prescott.

Local United Way reviews input from the community

By Tim Ruhnke - Journal Editor

PRESCOTT - The United Way of Leeds and Grenville will be going back to the people as part of a process aimed at meeting the changing needs of the community.

The organization which funds 25 agencies in the region has conducted a study to identify the most important issues affecting five different geographic areas of Leeds and Grenville and United Way member agencies. Details of the community consultation process were outlined in a presentation to Prescott council Monday night.

United Way representatives Bruce Lounsbury and Bob Pearce described the process and reported the findings for South Grenville and the other areas. A community roundtable involving participants from a range of sectors and interests within that area was held in each of the six reporting areas. The survey was also made available in hard copy form as well as electronically.

In South Grenville, there were two top issues identified by respondents; economic development and vision/hope/attitude each received 22 per cent. At 20 per cent each, youth and employment were identified as the next most pressing issues.

Pearce said the vision/hope/attitude option was unique to South Grenville.

Finding a doctor, job security and stress at home and at work were among the most frequently-noted problems affecting families and the community as a whole.

When asked about funding priorities for a local charitable funding agency, health-care led the way among survey respondents. Youth placed second, followed by seniors as the third-highest priority.

The United Way is now presenting the results of the survey to the participating communities. The information being gathered could be used to review the organization's funding model. In noting the United Way has already changed and shifted its responsibilities as times have changed, Lounsbury said it must listen to the community and be prepared to respond.

Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn said the United Way is to be commended for taking a global look at what it does, something Lawn added "takes a fair degree of bravery."

Editor's Notebook

HELP WRITE THE FINAL CHAPTER: At a time when the public is being asked to support a number of causes (some of which deal with what are admittedly more immediate and life-altering needs than others), we might tend to overlook projects which remain important to our community's quality of life and ability to attract others to town.

For several months now, the Friends of the Prescott Public Library group has been conducting a public campaign to secure enough money to fund a much-needed renovation and expansion of the Dibble Street West facility. As of last week, the door-to-door letter-drop campaign had raised about $11,000. At a time when the demand from what seems to be an increasing number of worthwhile causes continues to rise, library officials are pleased there are still many people in the community who appreciate the service they receive at the library and are willing to chip in to improve it.

Anyone who misplaced their envelope and is still able to contribute is asked to call the library at 925-4340.

The Friends group and the library board would like to have as much money in the bank as possible when the tender bids are revealed in a few weeks. The more resources at the community's disposal, the better the chances are of securing an expanded and renovated library that serves the community's needs. A few small donations here and there can really add up. No one is asking for a grandiose new building which emphasizes form over function; a modern facility that will be put to good use by local residents is all that is being sought here.

The community has responded positively to the call for support, but with a bit more help Prescott will finally be able to write the final chapter and close the book on getting a bigger and better public library this town has needed for a long time.

A JOB NO ONE MIGHT WANT: As Augusta Township continues its search for a new CAO (the third one in four years), Edwardsburgh/Cardinal adds its name to the list as Stephen McDonald prepares to leave the top administrator's job in the amalgamated township and become the CAO in South Dundas.

It will be interesting to see if Edwardsburgh/Cardinal has the same difficulty finding a successor for McDonald as Augusta is having with its search. We would have assumed with all the municipal bureaucrats displaced by all those amalgamations several years ago, there would be an ample supply of qualified candidates able and willing to do the job. If Edwardsburgh/Cardinal can only muster four or five applications, then we can say Augusta's predicament is no different than that of other municipalities.

Or could there be some other reason Augusta is having trouble hiring a new CAO? Given all the negative stories and controversy involving Augusta's municipal state of affairs the past three to four years, we really have to wonder.

Tim Ruhnke

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Giants will rise to the occasion; Leafs are about to fall

CLUB HOUSE REMARKS - David Dickenson

It's that magical fall season again!

On its way out is the sticky, hot, nasty, way too hot summer weather I hate and in is the cool comfortable fall weather.

Also, it's the big kick-off to the fall and winter sports season.

Since I have space to fill with a column and an opinion that people may not always respect but will still listen to, I figure I would try something new and make some predictions for the sports seasons in the world of pro sports and a few from South Grenville as well.

Where to start? It has to be hockey, where every Canadian team will make the playoffs with possibly the exception of the Toronto Maple Leafs who could limp their way to the golf course if they don't stay healthy. As for the Stanley Cup, you have to give the nod to the Ottawa Senators, Philadelphia Flyers or San Jose Sharks to win the cup, because of depth and experience. I wish I could pick the Edmonton Oilers, but I have to be realistic... at least they're moving in the right direction.

As far as football is concerned, the Super Bowl will be decided between the Indianapolis Colts and Carolina Panthers this year, after New England finally succumbs to the Colts' mighty offence.

In the annual fall classic, I have to go with the hot hand. It's my Atlanta Braves all the way, beating the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the World Series to improve their dynasty status.

The NBA title will go to the San Antonio Spurs again in a re-match of last year's finals against the Detroit Pistons.

Enough with the big four and onto the local sports scene.

Both the South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team and junior girls team will be among the top two AA teams in LGSSAA this year respectively and stand a good shot at going to EOSSAA.

The OFSAA AA senior girls basketball championships hosted by South Grenville this year will be a huge event in the community and really open some eyes at the skill level and entertainment value of high school sports, especially for girls teams.

The Giants senior and junior boys volleyball teams will both capture LGSSAA titles with relative ease, with the seniors still standing a good shot at winning the EOSSAA title, where they should be one of the three perennial contenders alongside Ernestown and Carleton Place.

The South Grenville boys basketball teams will be in a dogfight in AA LGSSAA basketball all season at both the senior and junior levels. The teams in the AA league are so even, just about any team could win. I wouldn't doubt a return to the finals for the seniors, while I have a sneaking suspicion the addition of Cathon Moore and Steve Moulton will put the junior team over the top.

As for the Jr. B Rangers, well, they'll be in a tough three-way battle for top spot in the Rideau Division with the Westport Rideaus and Gananoque Islanders. Though the team might not be as good as last year's on paper, this team should manage to win a playoff series.

Also, watch for Derek Rupert to sneak up on Tom Dickson to take the division's scoring title.

Everything's on paper now so I can't take it back. Now we'll just have to sit back and wait to see what happens.

Police chief needs to step forward and show public he is in charge

FROM THE OTHER SIDE - Jeffrey Morris

Somewhere, behind the scenes, Ottawa Police Chief Vince Bevan is sitting at a desk calling the shots while Staff Sergeant Monique Ackland faces the media like a zookeeper feeding fish to the bears on a daily basis. The past two weeks have hardened Ackland, just as they have hardened so many of the people whose lives randomly skidded into the intersection of Jennifer Teague and brutal heartbreak.

Through it all, Ms. Ackland has been a rock. She has been composed. She has been a leader. Simply put, she has been the public leader Bevan should have been.

One of the defining moments of this tragedy happened last Thursday, when Ackland, Bevan and Ed and Jean Teague called a press conference at the Barrhaven United Church. Bevan was swept in via helicopter, sharply dressed and very official. He talked about his involvement in the investigation, though he often referred to his "authorizing" this and "authorizing" that and "authorizing" every step of the search for the missing girl. He made references to how often he was at the command centre during the search, though the reporters gave each other looks, wondering why they never saw him there. Of course, he was and still is quarterbacking the entire investigation. But his appearance left us all expecting more.

Ed Teague, who has not spent much time at his Spencerville home lately, gave a heartfelt and emotional plea for his daughter's safe return. Everybody there will forever be haunted by his powerful claim that "someone out there knows what happened to Jennifer."

Mr. Teague, who met reporters and talked openly all week, has been a model of strength and courage and hope. He has emerged as an inspirational hero in this tragedy.

His former wife, Jean, got up to speak and her emotional pain was haunting and piercing, and will stay with everyone that was there forever. As she fought through the tears to plea for the return of her daughter, she looked at the media. Kenneth Jackson, a former reporter on our team who is now with the daily Metro, was about to shoot when he suddenly put his camera down and looked away, white as a ghost. "I couldn't do it," he told me later, "I was waiting for her to look at me and when she did, I just couldn't. I felt awful." Kenneth did get good pictures, and he entered the world of hard news.

Ms. Teague staggered back to her chair as if her inner strength had just been bled dry. She sat, and it was Monique Ackland who slowly walked over, put her arm around her, and tried to comfort her. It was an awkward moment, but never before had a woman needed a hug so badly, and Monique Ackland was there to give it.

The questions started and they ended abruptly. Bevan was whisked away on a helicopter, leaving a group of us there wondering about "the question" that none of us got to ask about. The question was what had the chief learned and what experiences could he draw upon heading up Operation Green Ribbon in St. Catharines that could be applied to this case. It seemed like a topic he wanted to avoid, though it is a poignant question for all of us as our community tries to pull itself together and move forward. Bevan was heavily criticized in St. Catharines for the plethora of missed opportunities in the Kristen French case. We wondered if people in Ottawa even realize he headed up the Green Ribbon task force.

More than a few people have wondered out loud if he wants to keep that skeleton in his closet. I did ask Monique Ackland Monday how important the Chief's experiences with the Kristen French investigation would come into play as he leads this investigation, and she shot darts of ice at me with her eyes, telling me they are two separate investigations and implying they shall forever remain that way.

None of us could imagine the pressure Vince Bevan is facing. As our police chief, he had to break the news to the family and communicate with them, just as he had done with the French and Mahaffey families in St. Catharines. Behind the scenes, he is focusing his life on this tragedy and investigation and leading the communication with the Teague family. I am not nor could I ever question or criticize the job he is doing.

But this is a story of leadership and example as much as it is one of tragedy. Ed Teague is a pillar of strength and inspiration, as is Jean Teague. Monique Ackland has been pure backbone, as have been the police officers working on this case are heroes. Hundreds upon hundreds of selfless and caring volunteers from Barrhaven to Manotick all the way down the 416 to Spencerville and Brockville that have put lives on hold to help the search.

For the public, it's not enough that Vince Bevan is behind a desk calling the shots. The murders of Ardeth Wood and Jennifer Teague need to be solved as municipal leaders try to hold together a community with panic bursting out of its seams. For the sake of community, Vince Bevan needs to step forward from behind the scenes and show the public that he is taking charge.

He needs to restore hope in our day-to-day lives, and it may be his toughest challenge to date.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

This messenger will continue the fight

The Editor;

It never ceases to amaze me how politicians explain away their abuse of our tax monies.

Mayor Dobbie, and past reeves at the very least, afforded us the courtesy of appearing at council and being heard - with no time limits. Taxpayers also felt like they had a right to be there, and their concerns were addressed when presentations were made.

Today, if you want comment from council, you must wait half an hour to an hour or longer after your presentation to get any feedback.

Mayor Taylor stated I had received written letters. I received one letter; it was written by the clerk and signed and delivered to my home by the fire chief! This is what she calls "normal" and acceptable correspondence?

Did it answer my questions? No, hence my continued insistence to get the answers. I, over the years, have attended many council meetings, and under no other council was I ever treated so defiantly by any reeve or mayor.

I have been unfairly criticized in this paper by a letter-writer who I do not know. With regards to my position on the over-inflated fire department budget, I just cannot justify $450,000 a year for a volunteer department when our neighbours in Augusta function with $233,000 and Prescott functions with $150,000. North Grenville, with three amalgamated townships and $15,000, spends $389,000.

Honourariums at nearly $80,000 last year compared to a maximum in the others.

May I repeat here I have always been a stalwart supporter of this department, and my husband is a 26-year member.

Council's refusal to make the simple changes in this department does account for a good portion of your tax increase. Folks, this is only one department; there are several others I am told are also spending way too much.

At the last meeting, I questioned why a township truck had been parked in Brockville nightly. Council seemed shocked I knew this, and apparently sent a memo to no longer take trucks home at night. Why was it allowed in the first place? What has been the cost to all of us?

What surprises me the most is the acceptance of continued tax increases and the lack of interest in what is going on. Shooting the messenger seems easier than facing the truth.

This messenger will continue the good fight with research and facts. Hopefully, some will listen.

Pat Grant, Spencerville

Firefighters, township following the rules

The Editor;

I would like to thank Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council for finally publicly backing its fire department and all its good volunteer firefighters during this time of Mrs. Grant's opinions.

About armchair quarterback Mrs. Grant, after reading her many letters one might get the impression Grant has far more knowledge about fire department operations than all the combined wisdom of council and fire personnel about how a fire department should operate. Mrs. Grant, what's your resources or references? The council and fire department draw their information from many different resources like the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office, Ministry of Labour, Occupational Health and Safety Section 21 Guidance Notes, Nation Fire Protection Association, Highway Traffic Act, legal counsel about past legal cases involving other unfortunate fire departments, just to list a few of the main ones.

Mrs. Grant, many of these things you complain about are covered in the above references. So are you suggesting members of the fire department and council disobey rules, regulations, guidance notes and other letters of correspondence from the fire marshal's office and, thereby, putting firefighter safety, other people and property at risk?

If this is so, where are the savings going to be after all the fines, lawsuits, lawyer fees and compensation are paid out. Mrs. Grant, I don't think you would want to be called to defend yourself in a court of law about the fire department not following rules and regulations, and I know members of the department and council don't want to either.

S. Brooks, Spencerville

SCHOOL SCENE

Algonquin Public School: Algonquin students recently joined other UCDSB participants in the 25th anniversary of the Terry Fox Run. We were so proud all of our students from JK to Grade 5 took part in this special 30-minute timed event, choosing to walk, jog or run as much or more of the one-km course as possible.

Accompanied by challenge organizers Andrea Lavender and Aaron Mason (who proudly represented us in the Prescott to Brockville staff challenge), students in training for our cross-country events led the first group around the track. Next to follow were the junior students with the primary students close on their heels. Upon finishing, students were rewarded for their efforts with juice and Terry Fox memorabilia. However, the highest level of satisfaction was evident in their smiles as they crossed the finish line realizing they had done an exemplary job of practising our Character Counts trait of "perseverance" while showing they care.

Boundary Street Public School: Students, staff and parents participated in the Terry Fox Walk this past Friday. Younger students walked around the school while older students followed the 4-km route through Prescott. Ms. Valliant represented our school in the UCDSB staff walk on Thursday morning. We acknowledge Constable Prophet for accompanying us.

Student council will be having a bake sale this Thursday, Sept. 22. All proceeds will be donated to the Terry Fox Foundation.

Parents and guardians are invited to attend the first school council meeting of this school year today (Wednesday, Sept. 21) at 6:30 pm. Nominations received will be reviewed, and new members will be elected.

Soccer tryouts and cross-country schedules will be posted outside the gym.

The First Rider bus program will take placed for Kindergarten students this Friday.

Hot lunch this Friday will be foot-long hot dogs.

Centennial '67 and North Edwardsburgh Public Schools: We are proud to announce both schools participated in the Terry Fox Run. In total, 4,322 km were achieved by students, staff, parents and community members.

At North Edwardsburgh, dental screening will take place on Monday, Sept. 26 for Kindergarten "A" students and on Thursday the 29th for the "B" Kindergartens. Dental screening for Grade 8 students at Centennial '67 will be on Monday, Sept. 26.

On Tuesday and Wednesday (Sept. 27-28), there will be a first-time riders orientation for Kindergarten students at North Edwardsburg Public School.

Character awards recognize students who demonstrate appropriate respect and caring towards themselves and others. Centennial '67 will focus on these 5 A's - Academic, Athletic, Arts, Attendance and Attitude - to be presented at each monthly assembly.

Similarly, North Edwardsburgh will focus on monthly character assemblies incorporating caring and respect within the Care Bears theme.

An open house and BBQ will be held on Thursday, Sept. 29. Parents may visit the classrooms and meet the staff at North Edwardsburgh between 4:30 and 5:30 pm and at Centennial from 5:30 to 6:30. A BBQ will be set up at Centennial '67 where families may purchase hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. It will be followed by a short assembly in the gym at 7 pm.

Central Public School: On Thursday, Sept. 15, Mme. Ritchie, our French teacher and Ms. Labrash, our Grade 1-2 teacher, represented Central in the first Upper Canada District School Board Terry Fox Staff Challenge. They ran the paddle from Pirelli Drive through Prescott to the Blue Heron Inn. Joan Hodge, our trustee, accompanied Ms. LaBrash for a part of her run.

We are hosting our annual open house this Thursday, Sept. 22 from 4:30 - 6:30. This will give parents an opportunity to meet their child's teacher and enjoy the numerous fun activities planned as well as a barbecue. There will also be a Scholastic book fair.

Cross-country running practices are under way, with the students training hard for the upcoming season. The first scheduled meet is on Sept. 27 in Kemptville followed by the Iroquois meet Sept. 30. The championship meet is planned for Oct. 7 at the Brockville Memorial Centre.

St. Mark Catholic School: Today at St. Mark, we hosted a very successful "Peaceful Schools International" flag-raising ceremony at which Catholic School Board of Eastern Ontario Director of Education, Ann Perron, addressed all invited guests, students and staff at the school.

This evening at 7 pm, we will host our curriculum night in the school gymnasium.

On Monday, Sept. 26, all staff will participate in an Ontario Physical Health Education Association and literacy workshop from 3:45 to 5:45 pm in the gymnasium.

On Wednesday, Sept. 28, Positive Identity Sportswear will be at the school to taker clothing orders from students, parents and staff in the morning only.

Have a peaceful week!

Walk to school and be a winner

OTTAWA - Taking part in International Walk to School Week could pay off for some lucky educational facilities.

The annual campaign promotes the environmental and health benefits of walking to school.

Go for Green, the non-profit organization that oversees the program in Canada, states the special week is marked in 36 countries.

Schools are invited to complete an awards application form. A draw will then be held; three awards of $500 and other prizes will be distributed.

For more information or to register, call 1-888-822-2848 or visit www.goforgreen.ca/walktoschool.

Ball tournament to help family deal with cancer

DOMVILLE - A fundraising ball tournament is being held this week for a local family that is trying to deal with cancer.

The fundraiser is to support Denver Thomson and his family, currently in Toronto having tests done.

The ball tournament will feature 14 teams taking part from Thursday night until Saturday night to raise money to help the family with expenses.

Kim Bologna, who is organizing the tournament, indicated the Thomsons are a very active part of the local community and sporting community and is hoping people will come by to show their support and lend a hand to the family.

Bologna indicated anyone wanting to chip in at the tournament is welcome to come and help. She also indicated there will be envelopes available at the tournament each day so people can stop by and drop off a donation and convey their best wishes to the family whether they are interested in taking part in the tournament or not.

Games run Sunday and Friday from 6 pm until 9 pm and continue Saturday with games starting at 9 am and running until approximately 5 pm.

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

The House will be serving as refreshing stop on tours

WALKER HOUSE NEWS - MARNIE LIPPIATT

This Saturday, the Grenville County Historical Society will be hosting its annual house tour. Walker House will be serving afternoon tea for those viewing the houses.

Tickets can be purchased here at the office.

Next Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 1-2), we will once more be part of the Seaway Autumn Colour Studio Tour. Artists in Prescott and area will be opening their studios for people to see their work.

We will be featuring hardanger needlework, traditional rug hooking and quilting. The artists will be demonstrating for you and will answer questions about their work.

You will also be able to purchase a light lunch, coffee, tea and sweets here. We will have flyers which list the artists, their works and a map to show their location. Call 925-5300 for more information.

Rug hookers are reminded of the new meeting time, Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 1 pm.

Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Joyce Nesbitt; 2nd, Janet White; door, Marion Fortier. Fun bridge ­ Wanda Wilson. Tuesday night cribbage ­ 1st, Jean McCrady; 2nd, Bea Hemsley; 3rd, Jean Annable. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Findlay Hill; 2nd, Dora Cook. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Jeannine Marion; 2nd, Mary Reynolds; 3rd, Jean Annable; door, Hilda Hutton.

Open house will deal with official plan review

PRESCOTT - An update on Prescott's official plan review will be the subject of an open house to be held next Wednesday, Sept. 28 from 5 to 7 pm at town hall on Dibble Street West.

See next week's Journal for more details.

Council hopes to have CAO/clerk in place

when McDonald leaves

By David Dickenson - Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council indicated Monday its hunt for a new CAO/clerk to replace Stephen McDonald had already begun.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor said the township would miss the work of McDonald and joked about gluing him to his seat so he would have to stick around.

"Steve's going to be missed," explained Taylor. "We wish he wasn't leaving, but still wish him the best. We accepted his resignation with regret; he's been a really big help to the township."

Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey echoed Taylor's sentiments that McDonald would be missed in the township.

"I have to agree that we will certainly be sorry to see him go," said Noccey.

Taylor also indicated working with McDonald was a good experience despite occasional differences of opinion.

"We still butted heads every now and again but still ended up coming away from it smiling," Taylor said.

McDonald offered his letter of resignation to council Monday Sept. 12 at a special meeting of council. He will begin a similar position with the Township of South Dundas starting Oct. 11.

McDonald indicated to The Journal his decision to leave was a personal reason and he would miss the people of the township.

Council noted Monday it had already advertised the position and received at least one application to fill the vacancy.

"We hope to have a replacement in place before Steve is gone," indicated Taylor. "We'd like to make it a smooth transition, so Steve can help train him."

McDonald indicated the deadline for applications is Oct. 6.

Council removes 25-year-old land sale provision

Pirelli Cables can now sell 50-acre property to party other than the municipality

By David Dickenson - Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Township council voted to overturn a 25-year-old provision of property sold to Pirelli Cables Limited back in 1980 by the Township of Edwardsburgh.

Council voted to approve removing a clause about 50.77 acres of land adjacent to Pirelli Cables Limited in the Johnstown Business Park from 1980 for $500 per acre, which only allowed the company to sell the land back to the township at the same price it was paid for the land.

It was noted an application to the township's administration committee had been received from Pirelli Cables requesting the removal of the provision, which was speculated by council to be a matter of clearing up paper work from a previous request to the township two years ago.

Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey indicated he had reservations against changing the agreement and indicated he would not be in favour of the bylaw.

"It was a deal both sides agreed to," explained Noccey. "I don't see why we are getting rid of this which will let them make money on this. Why isn't the township getting anything on the deal?"

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated the agreement didn't really serve any purpose anymore, since its original purpose was to prevent businesses from buying land, doing nothing with it and then waiting until the property value went up to sell it.

"It serves more of a benefit to the township right now to take off the provision so they can sell the land," explained Taylor. "If they sell the land it could be to business who will move here and open up and bring jobs and money to the township. It's not doing us any good the way it is."

After receiving approval on the first and second reading of the bylaw by most of council, all members of council voted unanimously to take the matter to a final reading Monday.

In the final reading, Noccey requested a recorded vote in which he was the lone member of council to vote against the removal of the provision. Mayor Taylor, Ward One councillors Hugh Cameron and Charlie Burrell, Ward Two Councillor Peter Martin and Ward Three Councillor Marie Thomson voted in favour of removing the limitation. Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan was absent; he was attending an International Plowing Match committee meeting.

Council seeks information on alternate energy study

SPENCERVILLE - Township council has asked the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association (ECBA) to come to council to discuss an application for funding from the Eastern Ontario Development Fund which requires township approval.

Council indicated at Monday's council meeting it would table the ECBA's application for funding from the Eastern Ontario Development Fund for an alternate energy study and ask the group to come to the next council meeting to bring everyone up to speed on what the application entails.

It was noted the ECBA had received its non-profit registration and could now be a lead applicant for the project, but still would require the support of their local municipality for their application to be processed.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated they just wanted some clarification of what the study will include.

"We're not 100 per cent clear on the study on alternate energy," explained Taylor. "Before we support this, we want to know more about it since right now we don't have enough details. If they are able to come to the next regular council meeting (Oct. 3) then they would still have enough time to get their application in by the Oct. 11 deadline if it's approved."

Port to extend hours this fall

SPENCERVILLE - Township council indicated the municipally-owned Port of Prescott will have extended hours for the fall to help out with the harvest season.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Mayor Peggy Taylor indicated the decision had been made at the Aug. 23 Port of Prescott Management Committee meeting in Cardinal. The port's regular operating hours will be extended by about four hours each day.

"They will now be open from 7 am until 6 pm from Monday until Friday," explained Taylor at the Sept. 6 council meeting. "They were open from about the same time until about 3-4 in the afternoon before."

Taylor said while the increased hours of operation will include some overtime, she didn't think it would be a problem. "There certainly has always been some overtime at the port," said Taylor, "but previously it wasn't always accessible to the customers. We hope to make up for it with profits from the new dryers. One problem we used to have was we weren't able to dry corn fast enough, and with the new dryer we should be able to accommodate more people."

Johnstown church marks its 126th anniversary this week

JOHNSTOWN The 126th anniversary of Johnstown United Church will be celebrated on Sunday, Sept. 25.

The special guest at the 10:30 am service will be Dr. Anthony Bailey, senior pastor at Parkdale United Church in Ottawa. Rev. Bailey, who was born in Barbados and moved with his family to Montreal at the age of eight, served as a minister in Kingston, Jamaica. While there, he spearheaded a human development centre which included a day-care, medical clinic and bakery.

Rev. Bailey has taught at McGill University and the United Theological College of the West Indies and has done freelance TV broadcasting.

An anniversary evening of music featuring the Hosick family of the Brockville area will also be held Sunday at 7 pm.

This Thursday, Sept. 22 at 5 pm, an anniversary turkey dinner will be served at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre.

All are welcome to attend these events.

Men's fashion show one of the special activities planned for Legion Week

PRESCOTT - The men's fashion show on Friday will once again highlight the Prescott Legion Branch 97's Legion Week activities.

Branch President Rose Phillips indicated the annual Legion Week festivities are a big deal to the Legion and its members, since the event is a chance for the community to come and spend time at the Legion and get to know what they are all about.

She indicated the Legion is heavily involved in the community and with local groups within the community, making donations to groups like Prescott minor ball and the Prescott Air Cadets.

The big event of the week is the annual men's fashion show this Friday, Sept. 23 at 7 pm, not Sunday as stated in last week's paper. The event sees the contestants in the show dressed up as females and strutting their stuff for the adoring public in attendance.

Among the other Legion Week activities is the Thirsty Thursday promotion on Sept. 22; veterans are asked to wear their old uniforms to the event.

The week will then be capped off on Saturday, Sept. 24 with a stuffed pork loin buffet dinner from 4 to 7 pm. Entertainment from DJ Keith Johnson will also be at the Legion from 4 to 8.

Keegan's Walk raises money for SIDS research

KEMPTVILLE - The sixth annual Keegan's Walk for SIDS will be held on Sunday, Sept. 25.

The event will take place at St. Michael Catholic High School and the Ferguson Forest Centre. Walkers can choose between a two-kilometre and a five-kilometre route. Registration begins at 10:30 am; the walks start at 11.

The day will include a barbecue, children's activities and entertainment provided by the Legion Pipe Band, Celtic Knights, Douvris Martial Arts and Reptile Rain Forest.

The event is in memory of Keegan Morgan, who died of sudden infant death syndrome in 1997. His parents, Irene and J.P., organize the walk each year in the hope there will come a day when other families will not lose a child to SIDS.

For more information, call 258-1075 or visit www.keeganswalk.com.

Cardinal branch to host male pageant

CARDINAL ­ The second annual Male Beauty Pageant will be held this Saturday, Sept. 24 at Branch 105 of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Doors open at 5 pm; entertainment will be provided until the start of the show at 7 pm. There will be a 50/50 draw and many door prizes.

Tickets will be sold at the door.

Jr. B Rangers start regular season with perfect 2-0 mark

By David Dickenson - Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers got off to a good start to the regular season with a pair of victories over Westport and Athens.

On Saturday, the Rangers were able to extract some revenge for last season's playoff defeat on the Westport Rideaus by scoring a 9-7 come-from-behind victory at home against the Westport Rideaus.

The Rangers got off to a quick start to the game scoring at 19:47 of the first period, when Derek Rupert undressed Westport goaltender Ryan Shecter and went top shelf on a backhand for an unassisted marker.

The Rideaus then responded to reel off four unanswered goals on the Rangers, before the Rangers tallied two markers in the final five minutes of the period to trail 4-3 at the end of the first period. Chris Clark and Tim Thomas scored the other two Rangers goals in the frame, while Adam Lawrence, Julien Francis and Rupert picked up helpers.

South Grenville tied things up at 18:35 of the second period, when Rangers captain Peter Veltkamp scored from the point for a powerplay marker. Thomas and Chad Gillesie added assists.

Westport and South Grenville traded goals for the remainder of the period with Francis and Clark scoring for the Rangers, while Rupert, Francica, Lawrence and Gillesie added assists.

Westport pulled ahead 7-6 in the third period with a powerplay marker early in the period, but the Rangers would gain momentum back after Jason Whalen banged in a rebound in a scrum in front of the net. Lawrence and Clark picked up helpers.

In the final five minutes of the game, South Grenville took over play with Andy Orsini scoring the winning goal with 4:24 left in the period to give the Rangers the lead. Lawrence and Steve LeDuc added assists.

Lawrence scored into an empty net with two seconds left to seal the victory. LeDuc and Orsini had helpers.

Following their home-opener, the Rangers were cautiously optimistic about the season and their team.

"For a group of young kids playing their opener, I think we did pretty well," said coach Rod Simmons. "We still have a lot to improve on and some chemistry to build, but the guys stepped up and finished strong. It was a great crowd tonight and I hope we get that all year long."

For the Crook brothers who played their first games in the blue, white and red after playing two seasons ago in Kemptville, they were excited to be part of what they expect to be a good team.

"I think it's a good bunch of guys," said Brad Crook. "We should be strong both ways and be a team that gets better as the season goes on."

Brother Chris added, "We should get stronger as the team's chemistry grows, but for now we got the win and are having fun. It's a great group of guys on and off the ice and it's been the best team we've ever played with."

On Sunday, the Rangers travelled to Athens and dominated play to score an 11-0 victory over the Aeros. Brad Simmons scored the shutout in goal for the Rangers in his first Jr. B start, while Rupert put together a seven-point performance to lead South Grenville.

Thomas led the Rangers with a pair of goals, while Lawrence, James Craig, Veltkamp, Rupert, Clark, Gillesie, Chris Crook, Nick Maggio and Orsini added singles. Rupert (6), Francis (4), Thomas (2), Brad Crook (2), Lawrence, Whalen, Mike Armstrong, Dustin Swan, Gillesie and Vince Francica chipped in with helpers.

Rangers Wrap-up: Keeping with tradition, the South Grenville home-opener was plagued by fog which even caused a delay in game while players had to skate circles to help it lift. It's one of the best games you could barely see. Six of last year's Rangers team have moved up to play Jr. A hockey in North America this year. David Lun, who stopped by the home opener to watch his former teammates, is playing with the Brockville Braves. Eric Selleck is with the Pembroke Lumber Kings, while Mark Williams is with the Cornwall Colts, Greg Richardson is with the Ottawa Jr. Senators and Californians Tim Potter and Skyler Hoar are playing Jr. A hockey in Montana and Connecticut respectively. Estimated attendance at Saturday's home-opener in Cardinal was 300 people.

SGDHS senior hoops team posts 2-1 record at tourney

OTTAWA - The South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team started its season on a good note posting a 2-1 record at a mini-tournament Friday and Saturday at Elmwood High School in Ottawa.

South Grenville coach Joe Latham indicated he was really pleased with how his team played at the tournament and looks at it as a tune-up to their next tournament this weekend at McGill University in Montreal.

"They played really well all weekend," explained Latham. "They were really good defensively and showed a lot of hustle. I was really impressed with our juniors from last year coming in Carrie (Calhoun), Michelle McDonald Chelsea Roode and Sarah Perrin all looked a bit nervous to start but came on strong. I think we're going to be a pretty good team this year."

The Giants started the tournament strong by posting a 48-42 victory over South Carleton (Richmond) Friday evening. Sara Watt and Jaime Grimes each had 13 points in the win.

In game two, South Grenville continued its strong play by outscoring the host Elmwood team 41-35 Saturday despite being down to eight players on the day. Grimes paced the Giant attack with 18 points, followed by Watt with 10.

In its final game of the tournament, South Grenville was eliminated by Algonquin (North Bay) after coming on strong in the fourth quarter to narrow a 43-26 lead to 56-48 by the end of the game.

Watt netted 13 points to lead the Giants, while Sam Joudoin and junior-age player Carrie Calhoun added eight.

The Giants senior girls team travels to Montreal this weekend to take part in a tournament; the junior team will play in Ottawa Friday and Saturday and also play in a tournament Sunday in Char-Lan.

The Giants start regular season play with a pair of home games Tuesday against Rideau and Thursday against North Grenville. Games start at 3 pm and run until approximately 6:30 pm both days.

Curling club set to start season

PRESCOTT - The curling season is getting set to get under way next week at the Prescott Curling Club.

The club will kick off its curling season Tuesday, Sept. 27 with the annual general meeting at the clubhouse at 7 pm.

Club spokesperson Melanie Cook indicated the meeting is an opportunity for current members and prospective new curlers to meet and find out about what's in store for the upcoming season.

Cook also indicated the club will kick off its on-ice sessions with a new-curler bonspiel on Sunday, Oct. 2 at 1 pm at the club.

"It's an opportunity for new curlers to come and learn the game, meet some of the members and give it a try," said Cook. "It just gives them a chance to experience it all. It's a free day and we have instructors to lend a hand."

Cook also indicated the event is meant for adult members; anyone interested in giving it a whirl should wear warm loose fitting clothes and clean running shoes.

Cook also indicated on top of its regular full schedule of events such as the men's invitational, closing mixed bonspiel and Bern Kirkby Swing & Sweep tournament the club has a new offer out there for prospective members.

"The new thing we have this year is a money back guarantee," said Cook. "Any curler has the opportunity to pay their fees and enroll, but has until November to get their money back if they don't like it or don't want to continue curling. We want to try and give people the chance to experience everything at the club and make an educated decision to be part of the club by playing
in the first draw of the year or a league night. If they like it, then that's great; but if not, they can still get their money back. It's meant as a good-will gesture to anyone who is interested."

Cook indicated to sign up with the club for the year is very affordable considering the season runs seven months (from October until April), and people will get plenty of chances to play.

To register for the Oct. 2 new-curler bonspiel, contact Cook at 925-4005.

Both Giants volleyball teams looking to rise to the occasion

By David Dickenson - Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior boys basketball team is looking forward to another strong season and hopes it will be able to defend its Eastern Ontario Secondary School Athletic Association (EOSSAA) championship.

The Giants team will miss the strong net presence of its leader Curtis Bucking, and net play from Ryan Fischer, but will return a very veteran laden team which gained a lot of experience in last year's run to the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association (OFSAA) championships.

Giants setter Mike Armstrong, who was also a co-captain on last year's team will be the glue that holds South Grenville together and leads the team on the court.

The Giants should still have a strong net presence with Braden Miller, Sam Whitley and Nathaniel Hayes leading the
team with their frontcourt presence, while Chris Hall, Josh Rupert, Craig Irvine and Derrick Lavery will be counted on for their strong defensive play in the backcourt.

Also joining the team will be last year's junior team players Stephen Joudoin, Mike Froom, Josh Parsons and Joel Haystead and newcomers Chad Hyland and Matt Alkerton, who will be given a chance to learn the system on the fly.

Giants coach Kevin Devaney expects another strong season from his team and looks to build on his Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association (LGSSAA) dynasty which has included three consecutive senior boys volleyball crowns.

"It's a little early to tell yet and I'm not sure who's going to play where yet," explained Devaney, "but the guys have some good expectations and have a lot of confidence after playing some of the top teams in the province last year. All these guys are hard workers and we're going to look to Nathaniel Hayes, Mike Armstrong, Braden Miller, Derek Rupert and Sam Whitley to have their chance to dominate."

Armstrong added, "I'm not sure how we are now, but we'll be fine once we get the new guys familiar with the system. We should have a strong defence, but we still need to work on our offence."

Junior team looks to returning core

The Giants junior boys volleyball team is shaping up as a strong contender in LGSSAA league play with a young group of returning players expected to take on the roles of leaders.

Cory Alkerton, who established himself as a strong cross-court spiker, will return this year; Dylan Hayes, Cody Haché, Payton Williams and Kyle Lavery also return to help lead South Grenville.

The Giants also received a big boost from Spencerville's Cathon Moore, who comes to South Grenville after attending St. Mary last year. Moore showed last year for the Crusaders he was already one of the most dominating net players in the league as a Grade 9 and looks to improve on that with the Giants.

The juniors are coached by Derrick Byrd, who figures his team will be very competitive in a strong LGSSAA.

"I think we should be pretty solid," said Byrd. "We have a solid starting six or seven guys back in Grade 10 and these guys coming back know they have a good team and if they work hard they can be something special and that's had a good influence on the Grade 9's. Cathon (Moore) gives us that big guy that's rare in junior volleyball, while Cory Alkerton right now is hitting the ball as well as any of the seniors and he's a lefty, which sneaks up on people."

Both the junior and senior levels of volleyball will have a new open format in LGSSAA, with each team playing at least one game against the nine other schools in the area in the regular season.

The Giants volleyball season kicks off Sept. 29 at Thousand Islands Secondary School
in Brockville for a five-team league tournament. South Grenville will host league play on Oct. 6 in Prescott, with games expected to run from noon until 6:30 pm.