Proposed tariff puts local plant at risk: Casco

Company gives heads-up to its Cardinal workers

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - A new tariff by the Canadian government which is aimed at corn products imported from across the border could have a potentially fatal effect on one of the largest employers in South Grenville.

Casco's Cardinal plant, which has been in the region for more than 100 years, could be in danger of closing if the new tariff comes into effect resulting in the more than two hundred employees and numerous employees in businesses which are associated with the plant losing their jobs.

Corn Products International (CPI), of which Casco is a subsidiary, indicated things are far from finalized, but the company did confirm a worst case scenario from the tax is the closure of all three of the company's Canadian plants in London, Port Colborne and Cardinal.

"Right now, it's a tough situation to gauge," explained CPI Director of Communications in Westchester, Illinois, Mark Lindley, "but we're trying to look on the optimistic side of things. We have updated the employees at all three of Casco's Canadian plants about what is going on and they know that a worst case could see the company close one or more of the plants."

"This is something we are taking very seriously and we don't want anyone to panic. We held the meeting to make sure our employees knew where they stood and the business is still being run and the product is still getting to the customers," he added.

Lindley indicated the potential tariff on American corn being imported is something which isn't only going to affect the corn refining business, but all corn-based industry in Canada including the production of feeds and ethanol.

"It's every industry which relies on corn," explained Lindley. "Canada needs to import corn to meet needs and if the cost to import it goes up dramatically, it will have a huge effect. We've been told currently the possible tariff is in the investigation stage, but could come into effect by the end of the year."

Casco Cardinal's United Food Processors Union Local 483 President, Kevin Patrick, indicated there was not a lot to report on what is going on at this time, but he did note the employees at the Cardinal plant were spoken to Thursday morning about the possible effects of the tariff.

"It's probably going to be a long process," Patrick told The Journal Thursday afternoon. "There was an information meeting about a possible tariff which could come in and affect us. The company just wanted to give us the information first-hand instead of having to hear things through the newspapers or on the Internet. It's more of a timeline process where we just have to wait and see."

For many of the employees of the Cardinal plant, the information session had some sting to it, putting an air of doubt about the company's future in the area in their minds.

"I'm just stunned at what I heard when they talked to us," Casco employee Colin Dalrymple told The Journal.

"I just had a feeling of disbelief. It's almost like whiplash, where we sat there heard it (the possibility of us closing), but couldn't believe it. You hear about other places going through this and closing down, but you never expect there's a possibility it could be you."

Dalrymple continued, "Basically, they told us everyone had to be an advocate for the company and do what we could to keep us here. They told us we would have more of a definitive answer between the end of November and next June. It sounds long, but it's coming soon."

In a Corn Products International press release on its Web site Thursday, the company indicated its disappointment in the Canadian government's decision to initiate an anti-dumping and/or countervailing duty investigation on corn imported from the United States.

It indicated Corn Products' subsidiary, operating under the Casco name is Canada's largest industrial corn user and the sole processor of corn refined starches, sweeteners, corn oil and animal feeds.

The release stated the company does not believe the potential duties are in the best interests of the various stakeholders who may be affected, including customers, vendors, employees or the Canadian agriculture industry. It also noted Casco's parent company opposes the action and plans to pursue all regulatory and other measures available to counter the decision.

It was noted the tariff was still in the information phase with it possibly coming into effect as soon as November.

THIS WEEK

Master's Hands dinner will be served today

PRESCOTT ­ A community supper for the less fortunate will be served today from 5 to 6:15 pm at Seaway Christian Church.

There is no admission fee to the monthly Master's Hands dinners; everyone is welcome to attend.

Seaway Christian is located on Churchill Road at Massie Drive.

Smoother ride on way as road paving begins

PRESCOTT ­ Weather permitting, several paving jobs will be completed or started this week.

Prescott Public Works Foreman Hans VanHelden said Monday night CN was planning to pave the Boundary and Sophia railway crossings this Wednesday and Thursday.

VanHelden also noted the grinder is scheduled to be in Prescott on Thursday to scrape the surface of Edward Street in the north end.

A number of other paving projects are to be done in the next couple of weeks, including portions of Sophia, George, Centre and Dibble streets as well as Massie Drive.

As for the north end of Boundary Street, town staff recommend the paving be put off until next year when it could coincide with the pumping station project and infrastructure work associated with the new subdivision to the north and west.

Library hosts story hour on Monday mornings

PRESCOTT ­ Children's Story Hour has resumed at the Prescott Public Library.

Youngsters between the ages of two-and-a-half and six, as well as their parents and caregivers, can enjoy stories, songs and crafts together. This is a great opportunity for children to become familiar with the library while learning the alphabet and developing a love of books.

The program, which is back from its summer break, takes place Monday mornings from 10 to 11.

The library is located at 360 Dibble St. W.

For more information, call 925-4340.

The Friends of the Library group continues to raise money for the library renovation and expansion project.

No end in sight as Invista strike approaches its fourth month

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAITLAND - More than a week after members of CEP Local 28-0 voted overwhelmingly to reject the tentative agreement put forth by Invista, there is no further movement in negotiations.

"We continue to be willing to bargain in good faith with union representatives," stated Invista spokesperson Mark Lichty late Monday. "We are, however, concerned about (the) effectiveness of meeting with a union committee who agreed in writing to unanimously recommend a settlement and yet are unable to deliver a ratified agreement."

Lichty went on to say further negotiations would be scheduled by the appointed provincial mediator as they have in previous sessions.

He added "currently there are no meetings planned" between Invista, union representatives and the provincial mediator.

A vote on the company's latest contract took place last Monday, and resulted in 83.4 per cent of the local's membership rejecting the latest contract.

A main reason as to why the contract was rejected, according to local President Steve Armstrong last week following the vote, is because of an undesirable return-to-work protocol.

According to him, this protocol could see the site-wide seniority provision, which has been in place since the mid-1970s, completely disregarded and could see up to 160 union members laid off if the site's ketone alcohol and adipic acid sections are not restarted. Armstrong stated last week he had heard rumors the sections would be winterized by the company.

Lichty confirmed that the adipic acid and ketone alcohol sections of the plant are currently not running nor have they been running since the start of the strike.

"Before the ratification vote (on Sept. 19), we advised (the) union if the agreement was ratified at that time the company (would be) restarting production of adipic," explained Lichty. However, he added that restarting the sections now is a "business decision" which depends on the "situation when ratification finally occurs."

The strike which affects approximately 350 unionized workers on the Maitland site began June 4 and, as of today, has been going on for 117 days.

"The strike now continues," added Lichty. "It's not possible to predict (an) end to the dispute."

When asked if Invista and the union are now at an impasse, Lichty answered "We are looking for the right resolution to make the site competitive now and in the future."

Third annual Seaway Autumn Studio Tour set for this weekend

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

SOUTH GRENVILLE - Fine art, pottery, jewellery and religious icons are only some of the eclectic pieces to be featured at this year's Seaway Autumn Colour studio tour and sale.

The tour is set for this Saturday and Sunday (Oct. 1-2,) from 10 am to 5 pm each day. On this year's tour, there are nine stops featuring 16 different artists and artisans.

"It's a more eclectic group of artisans," stated tour organizer Pat Lemaire, "(They) run the gamut."

Lemaire added that this year's tour, which features stops in Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal, features both fine artists working with oil, watercolour and acrylic paints in addition to a potter, a goldsmith, an illustrator and a caricaturist.

There is no charge for the tour. "It educates them (the public) as to what's available in the area," stated Lemaire, adding the tour serves to increase public awareness of the varied sorts of artisans who live in the area and the pieces they produce.

Each stop will also afford the opportunity for the public to meet and interact with the artists and artisans at the site and to purchase items they have for sale.

It is the third year for the tour, which has been organized by Lemaire since its inception. "Almost nobody knew I was a quilter (before the tour started,)" stated Lemaire, whose home-based quilting studio Purplepatch is one of the stops on the tour.

At Lemaire's residence at 32 Mary St. in Johnstown, visitors will be treated to a large display of Lemaire's quilts, which range from small pieces of quilting art to large works.

Lemaire has quilted for much of her life; however she says she "really got into it" after taking a quilting course at St. Lawrence College in Brockville in the late 1980s. "(It) gave the fine points of quilting... finer techniques," she stated.

Also at Lemaire's residence during the tour will be Jo-Ann Zorzi, a fibre and textile artist; Bonnie Lemaire, an illustrator whose projects include greeting cards and children's book illustrations and Rob Westall, a cartoonist and characturist.

The other stops on the tour include:

* 1662 County Road 2. At this site, the fine artwork of Marilyn White will be displayed, as well as the handcrafted pottery of Christina McCarthy and the jewellery designs of Christel Elvira Klocke.

* Eva's Art Studio & Gallery, 276 King St. W. This location will feature the fine artwork and drawings of the gallery's proprietress Eva Neron as well as the art of Prescott master painter J. Allison Robichaud and Toronto artist and designer Sally Bratt.

* At 672 Henry St. W., the public can peruse the religious icons made from old wood and found objects by Pia Thompson.

* Walker House (623 King St. W.) The senior's activity centre will be serving refreshments during the tour, and will also feature its members demonstrating quilting, rug hooking and hardanger needle stitching.

* 4000 Cedar Grove Rd. This Augusta site will feature the work of artists Paul and Christine Hillier, whose specialty is photography and oil painting with maritime themes. This location will also feature the hand-dyed fabrics and textile art of Marianne Leeck.

* 4601 Charleville Rd is artist Sharon Stein, whose paintings encompass a variety of mediums and subjects and is collected worldwide.

* At 14 Reilly St. in New Wexford, there will be the hardwood carvings of Ronald Landry, which are western-themed.

* 2119 County Road #2 past Johnstown is the home of Mary Scott, who will display a variety of oil, watercolour and pen artworks.

For more information about the tour, contact Lemaire at 925-3897 or visit www.seawayautumncolourstudiotour.com

Sidewalk repairs put on hold

PRESCOTT ­ Town officials say they want to ensure sidewalk repairs proceed next year.

The municipality budgeted $30,000 for sidewalk work this year. At a transportation and environmental committee meeting Monday night, Public Works Foreman Hans VanHelden indicated the town was unable to get repairs done this year because the contractors with whom he spoke were already fully booked by the time council passed the 2005 budget at the beginning of the summer.

The committee recommended the $30,000 be placed into reserves for next year and used for sidewalk repairs. However, the possibility of the municipality incurring a deficit this year could call into question how the money is used.

"This does not sit well with me at all," said Mayor Robert Lawn, who added the condition of municipal sidewalks has been a contentious issue for many Prescott citizens. The mayor indicated the sidewalk repair money should not be placed at risk because of the length of time it took to pass the budget, which Lawn referred to as council's fault.

Other members of council concurred the money should remain earmarked for repairs next year.

New Web site and community profile launched

PRESCOTT ­ An up-to-date community profile appears on a new Web site being launched tonight.

The two projects funded by the Eastern Ontario Development Fund were spearheaded by the South Grenville Economic Development Committee, an advisory group which represents the municipalities of Prescott, Augusta and Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal.

The community profile includes demographics and statistics which have the makings of becoming invaluable tools for existing businesses and those which might consider investing in this area.

The official launch of www.southgrenville.com will take place at 7 pm at town hall on Dibble Street West.

See the revised plan take shape

An open house to present proposed changes to Prescott's official plan will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 12 from 5 to 7 pm at town hall. Copies of the work-in-progress are available at town hall and next door at the public library.

Based on information provided at a recent council meeting, last week's paper stated the open house for the official plan review would be held tonight.

Knights to serve dinner and host auction Sunday

PRESCOTT ­ The local Knights of Columbus will host a roast beef dinner and public auction on Sunday, Oct. 2 at St. Mark's Parish Centre on Edward Street.

Dinner will be served at 5:30 pm, followed immediately by the auction. Jim Cooper is the auctioneer.

A portion of the proceeds will be given to the Food For All Food Bank.

Tickets can be purchased at the door. There is a special ticket price for children under the age of 12; kids under the age of five will be admitted free of charge.

Prescott Blossoms participants will help install the new deck at Centennial pool

PRESCOTT ­ A proposal to replace the deck of the Prescott Centennial Pool is expected to proceed this fall.

At a meeting Monday night, the town's finance and corporate services committee endorsed the recommendation of Community Services Director Randy Pelehos. In a written report, Pelehos recommends replacing the paving stone deck with interlocking brick. The existing deck, much of which is made of the original stones dating back to 1967, is difficult to keep level. There have been many stubbed toes, trips and falls and an occasional broken toe, according to Pelehos.

Three companies submitted quotes for the interlocking brick. The lowest bid was submitted by Planes Concrete of Prescott; its bid amounts to $5,088, more than $2,000 less expensive than the other town bidders from Brockville and Kingston.

An added incentive for completing the project now is the availability of the Prescott Blossoms group. The Blossoms team will install the interlocking brick (about 3,200 square feet) under the supervision of town employee Gary Minkhorst, who installed the stairs and walkways as part of the town hall project.

Councillor Chuck Street, who also supervises the Prescott Blossoms group, said installation would likely take between seven and 10 days to complete. Street estimated the cost of the project would be in the range of $15,000 if a contractor were hired to do the labour.

The project will be funded by municipal reserves; pool deck replacement was discussed during budget deliberations held earlier this year. The committee's recommendation is likely to be endorsed by Prescott council at its Oct. 3 meeting.

The large patio stones being replaced will be retained by the municipality for some other use.

Threat of rising gas prices drives line-ups at the pump

PRESCOTT ­ Many motorists in the South Grenville area joined the rush to fill up Thursday as rumours of imminent and substantial hikes in gasoline prices began to spread.

Gas stations in the Prescott area were kept very busy throughout the morning and into the afternoon as the threat of big price hikes prompted drivers to start lining up for fuel. The posted price of a litre of regular gas was 98.6 cents; reports of a litre selling for up to $2 or more to the west of town were circulating throughout the community.

By mid-afternoon, three gas stations in Prescott had raised their price by about six cents a litre. However, as was the case in most of Southern Ontario, the actual increases were much lower than those which had been rumoured.

The speculation had been fueled by predictions Hurricane Rita would knock out most of the Texas coast's oil refinery operations.

Motorists who waited in line for several minutes in Prescott Thursday voiced their frustration and anger about high gas prices and the threat of much higher prices in the very near future. "Totally ridiculous" is how Paul Marion described the situation. The big oil companies want their money and the government says there is nothing it can do, he said. Another motorist remarked, "It's a damn racket."

By Monday, the posted price in Prescott had been lowered to under 98 cents a litre.

Mental health centre anniversary

BROCKVILLE ­ Someone who has regained control of his life from schizophrenia will give an inspirational talk about the disease this Thursday, Sept. 29 at Brockville Psychiatric Hospital.

Bill MacPhee, who was diagnosed in 1987, overcame the illness through medication, family support and other therapies and launched Schizophrenia Digest in 1994.

Following MacPhee's talk, the Mental Health and Addictions Resource Centre at BPH will host a first anniversary luncheon at the centre, which is located in the Elmgrove Unit.

Anyone interested in attending the talk and the celebratory lunch is asked to contact Lori Veltkamp at 345-0950, ext. 105, or at lori.veltkamp@cmha-lg.ca.

Oct. 3-10 is Mental Illness Awareness Week. Nearly one in five Canadians is affected by mental illness.

Mothers and their babies encouraged to take challenge

BROCKVILLE ­ Local mothers and their babies are invited to take part in a challenge next weekend as part of World Breastfeeding Week.

Locations throughout Canada and the United States will be trying to set a record this Saturday, Oct. 1 at 11 am for the most babies breastfeeding at one time. The local location for the challenge is the Ontario Early Years Centre at 166 Pearl St. E., Brockville.

The winner of the international competition will be the province, state or territory with the most participating babies as a percentage of the birthrate.

Breastfeeding has been documented as providing benefits to mothers and babies, according to a release issued through the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit. The lack of support and marginalization by the community are viewed as obstacles preventing some women from meeting their breastfeeding goals and leading them to wean their children prematurely.

Representatives from the health unit and the local La Leche League Canada support group will be on hand at the Brockville centre from 10:30 to 11:30 am on Oct. 1 to answer questions and distribute information on breastfeeding. There will be refreshments and door prizes. The public is invited to attend.

For more information, call Julie Larose at 925-0067 or visit www.babyfriendly.ca.

Oct. 1-7 is World Breastfeeding Week in Canada.

Local MS chapter to mark 40th

BROCKVILLE ­ A special evening is planned to mark the 40th anniversary of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada's Leeds and Grenville chapter.

A dinner will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15 at Highway Pentecostal Church on Stewart Blvd. Social time starts at 5 pm, followed by a roast beef dinner at 6. A special program including music and entertainment will begin at 7:30 pm. Master of ceremonies will be professional comedian Terry V. Hart.

Dinner tickets are available by calling 342-6396 or e-mailing info.leeds@mssociety.ca.

Next Chamber meeting date has changed

PRESCOTT ­ The date of the next Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce meeting has been changed because of a scheduling conflict.

Chamber directors are advised the meeting will now be held on Thursday, Oct. 20 at noon at the Bridgeview, not on Oct. 19 as scheduled.

Noise complaint leads to marijuana bust

PRESCOTT ­ Officers with the Grenville County OPP detachment responded to 66 calls for service in the Prescott patrol zone last week.

Last Tuesday at about 5:21 am, constables Thompson and Barr were dispatched to investigate a noise complaint at an apartment on Claxton Terrace. When talking to a male at that location, the officers noticed a strong odour of marijuana coming from the apartment. The officers entered and seized a total of 182 grams of marijuana (with an estimated street value of $1,800) as well as $500 in Canadian currency. The 18-year-old Prescott man was arrested and charged with possession of a narcotic. He is scheduled to appear in court Nov. 18. The man's name was not included in an OPP news release.

Early last Wednesday evening, Constable Barr investigated the theft of a bicycle from a James Street East residence. The black and white racing bike (male frame) is believed to have been taken sometime between 8 and 11 pm the previous night. The bicycle is valued at $115.

Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences in the Prescott area is asked to contact the OPP at 925-4221 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

Booster seats being emphasized in seat belt awareness campaign

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ The fall seat belt campaign is now under way, and Grenville County OPP remind motorists spot checks could pop up at any time.

This year's campaign, which continues until Sunday, Oct. 2, will focus on booster seat regulations which went into effect in Ontario recently. As of Sept. 1, booster seats are required for children under the age of eight who weigh more than 18 kg and less than 36 kg (between 40 and 80 lbs.) and who are less than 145 cm (four feet, nine inches) in height.

Anyone ­ including caregivers, babysitters and grandparents ­ who is transporting a child by vehicle must ensure he or she is properly secured in an infant, child or booster seat. A driver who fails to use a booster or child seat or who uses one improperly faces a fine of $110. Police also emphasize the safety risks associated with not wearing seat belts.

As for seat belt and RIDE checks, four took place last week in Prescott and Augusta. Nearly 80 vehicles were checked; no tickets or warnings were issued.

Eaton's 20/20 Tour is under way

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Federal Liberal candidate Bob Eaton's 20/20 Tour continues tonight (Wednesday, Sept. 28) in Maitland.

Eaton is hosting a series of town hall meetings in communities throughout the riding of Leeds-Grenville. Tonight's meeting at MERC Hall begins at 7 pm.

Other public meetings to be held in the South Grenville area include Oct. 4 at the agricultural hall in Spencerville, Oct. 18 at the Cardinal Legion and Oct. 26 at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre in Johnstown. These meetings also begin at 7 pm.

The tour started last night at the Prescott Golf Club.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I'm just stunned at what I heard when they talked to us."

Editor's Notebook

We'll likely panic again

If there was ever an example of how the petroleum industry has us over a collective barrel and how reasonable and intelligent people can be thrown for loop because of their dependence on oil, look no further than the events of this past Thursday.

With Hurricane Rita reportedly ready to devastate an already weakened oil production and refinement system in the American Gulf, rumours and speculation about the prospect of gasoline prices doubling within a matter of hours prompted countless motorists in much of this country to rush to the nearest service station. At one gas station in Prescott, one staff person stood in the parking lot to direct traffic and ensure no one left the place without paying for his or her purchase. From early morning until late in the afternoon, many of us tried to get as much of the "cheap" gasoline (just under $1 a litre) before that huge price hike took effect.

The increase finally took place Thursday afternoon. The new price: about $1.04 a litre. Six cents more. That was all.

Although there was confirmation some service stations in Ontario and Quebec raised their prices to nearly or just over $2 a litre, the vast majority of outlets did not jack up their prices significantly. The moment passed, the hurricane did not do as much damage to the oil industry's infrastructure as had been feared initially, and reports of skyrocketing across-the-board price hikes ended up being unfounded.

Many of us got caught up in the frenzy. We relied on the testimony of other credible people who we believed were giving us first-hand, accurate information about the actual prices being charged at service stations down the 401. As it turned out, most of these accounts were, to say the least, less than accurate.

As motorists were buying into this feeding frenzy of sorts, we did not hear the oil companies telling us to stop filling up or to calm down and put the situation in the proper perspective. The bottom line is we were purchasing significant quantities of their products, which would tend to help the industry's collective bottom line. We eventually heard from some of our political leaders who advised their constituents to let cooler heads prevail.

With all due respect to local service station attendants and managers, the petroleum sector has us right where it wants us and governments are choosing to pay little more than lip service to the problem because of our collective need for fuel and the tax revenue, political party contributions and the jobs that come with it. They have us over a barrel, and everybody knows it.

Perhaps the next time the "perfect storm" appears to be heading for the Texas coast, we will look back on what happened Sept. 22 and allow cooler heads to prevail. Given our reliance on oil, though, we suspect the line-ups will be just as long the next time.

Tim Ruhnke

I repeat: savour your time with that someone special

THE NEW GUY by Tim Ruhnke

Yes, Gauri, here I go. As you'll see, however, this is likely to be the last time this particular subject will appear in this space (the operative word being "likely").

At the end of last December, I wrote about a fabulous young woman named Monica who serves as a great example of why it is so important to savour the time you have with someone truly special. Whether it be a spouse, lover or friend, make the most of that time because there will inevitably come a point at which the opportunity will end one way or another.

Going back to those irresponsible days of university residence life almost 20 years ago and continuing through our entry into the real world of adulthood, Monica's spirit and her ability to make others feel better by being with her was something I grew to respect and appreciate as time progressed.

I lost track of her a couple of years ago and I knew one of those milestone birthdays (the one Shania experienced recently) was on the horizon, so I called her parents' house north of Sudbury to find out how I could get in touch with Mon. Her mother answered the phone; after I reminded her who I was and why I was calling, she said something along the lines of "your stars have crossed." What did she mean by that? Well, it seems Mon was sitting right beside her. Turns out she was home, in part, to celebrate her parents' 50th wedding anniversary. But there was more.

Less than a week earlier (five days, to be exact), Monica got married.

The free-spirited beauty had finally found that special someone. I was and still am happy for her.

By the time our conversation was winding down, though, I realized this was, in essence, my farewell call.

As selfish as it will seem, I was saddened by the realization she is moving forward with her life and I will have no place in it. In our 20s and well into our 30s, we were always able to reconnect and maintain a bond even if we would go a year or two without seeing each other. At 40, those moments now seem as though they happened a lifetime ago; really, the only bond we still share is those memories. I guess it's for the best I am finally starting to come to grips with the fact that was then and this is now.

I truly hope things work out for Monica and Travis. (He is six years younger... way to go, Mon!) She will always have a special place in my heart as the one person who always seemed to maintain a positive attitude even when she faced her own challenges. Being a bit of a free-spirit doesn't mean you are immune from having the same anxieties as the rest of us about getting older and being single. I am happy Mon is not alone as she enters the second half of her life.

Live and be well, my friend!

Plans for a small shopping centre in Cardinal outlined: 1985

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Sept. 27, 1945

* George Prophet has come home to Prescott. The sergeant in the Governor-General's Foot Guards returns to the Fort Town after serving overseas. His brother Alex returned home from overseas service earlier in the year.

* Branch 97 of the Canadian Legion conducted its last general meeting of the year at the Prescott Armouries. The meeting was chaired by branch President J.P. Kelso. Among the serious issues discussed were the housing problem in town, the need to secure a permanent home for the local Legion and the possibility of establishing a memorial hospital in Prescott. There is a great need for a hospital, which would also serve as a way to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

Sept. 25, 1985

* The list of candidates vying for the six councillor seats in Prescott continues to grow. Charles Roberts and Phil Baril have announced they will be joining newcomers Ross King and Greg Adams and incumbents Marion Fortier and Jim Knudson in the race for councillor. The manner in which the town's share of a new water filtration plant is being funded (through special rates) is proving to be a major campaign issue.

* Cardinal businessman Charles Burrell has announced plans to build a small shopping centre in the village. The site is located on the filled-in portion of the canal across from Donaldson's Shell. Burrell, who is also a member of Cardinal council, indicated he has already commissioned preliminary design work and begun preliminary negotiations with prospective tenants. The structure would have room for six small retail outlets and a larger store; there would also be an enclosed walkway.

* Cardinal council is considering the possibility of creating a new truck route in the village. The proposal calls for trucks to use Lewis Street to Dundas, then to Bridge Street and onto Highway 2. In order to rectify problems caused by tight curves, a plan from united counties engineers proposes the demolition of two buildings to make wider corners at the intersections of John and Lewis as well as Dundas and Bridge.

Fear can be the greatest gift we can give to our children these days

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

I drove around Barrhaven on my way home Monday night, and I was shocked at what I saw.

Not at one, but at two different bus stops in the community, there was a girl or woman, alone, waiting for a bus after 10 pm. Did Jennifer Teague's tragic death teach us nothing? Has the fear that overtook the community suddenly and for some reason vanished?

Sure, the kids are out again. They are more careful to be in groups or in lit areas, but groups of youths just hanging out and looking for a place to sit and have a cigarette after 11 are more visible than before. Well, perhaps they are more visible than before simply because they are in well-lit areas.

In the past month, people throughout eastern Ontario have certainly become more aware of safety. Although Jennifer Teague's murder happened in Barrhaven, it gave everyone in every community in the region a cold, jolting realization that this could happen anywhere, in any neighbourhood.

While some people have not learned the lesson of common sense, others went too far with hysteria. They have been overcome by panic and feel like they are no longer safe. But the reality is that maybe everyone should never have felt safe to begin with.

Humans are an interesting species in that we are the only animals or mammals that ignore fear. While other animals rely on fear for survival, our instinct is to try and rationalize fear and to get around it or overcome it.

Jennifer Teague should have been able to walk home alone in the early hours of Sept. 8. We all should have that right. But her death is teaching a lesson to this area that has been taught over and over again in Canada in the past. Don't take being safe for granted.

Regardless of whether the murderer turns out to be an acquaintance or a total stranger or a serial killer, an act like the one that claimed Jennifer Teague was not random. It was thought out, it was planned, and it was violent. It can be a swarming or a beating or a rape ­ all those things happen in Barrhaven and other communities but do not sweep into the mainstream media the way murder does. They happen on the streets, but they also happen at home and even in the workplace.

As a parent, it's hard to know when your child is ready to handle the outside world. Jennifer Teague was 18 ­ just two months an adult, says her father Ed. Was she ready to handle the outside world? All indications were she was, but there was a brief time when she was vulnerable, and the person who committed this horrible crime knew that at that precise time she or someone else would be completely vulnerable.

If you are a parent, there is something called "The Test of Twelve" that will help you in preparing your child for street safety.

­ Does your child know how to honor his feelings? If someone makes him uncomfortable, that's an important signal.

­ Are you as the parent strong enough to hear about any experience your child has had, no matter how unpleasant?

­ Does your child know it's okay to rebuff and defy adults?

­ Does your child know it's okay to be assertive?

­ Does your child know how to ask for assistance or help?

­ Does your child know how to choose who to ask? For example, he should look for a woman to help him.

­ Does your child know how to describe his peril?

­ Does your child know it's okay to strike, even to injure, someone if he believes he is in danger, and that you'll support any action he takes as a result of feeling uncomfortable or afraid?

­ Does your child know it's okay to make noise, to scream, to yell, to run?

­ Does your child know that if someone ever tries to force him to go somewhere, that their screams should include, ''This is not my father''?

Onlookers seeing a child scream or even struggle are likely to assume the adult is a parent.

­ Does your child know that if someone says, ''Don't yell,'' the thing to do is yell? The corollary is if someone says, ''Don't tell,'' the thing to do is tell.

­ Does your child know to fully resist ever going anywhere out of public view with someone he doesn't know, and particularly to resist going anywhere with someone who tries to persuade him?

Be a listener for your teenager. They, like all of us, need to feel like they have been listened to and not talked at. Don't be impatient and let them tell a story. They may not communicate as quickly and efficiently as you do, so take the time to hear them out. Praise them for talking to you.

Encourage it. Let them know you appreciate them sharing their concerns and let them know you will help them through it.

The world is a different place for kids now than it was when I was a kid. Gone are the Tom Sawyer-like days of waking up, grabbing a fishing rod and throwing your baseball glove on the back of your bike and just going off for the day and coming home at dark.

But as we help our children and today's youth get through, we need to help them be aware. And we need to let them know that fear is the greatest gift they have.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Fair board deserves applause for its efforts

The Editor;

Here are my thoughts on the Spencerville Fair of 2005. It was an outstanding experience for the young and elderly alike.

The parade was wonderful; the size, all the entries, the route taken, all great. All the exhibit buildings were outstanding, especially the Barn of Learning. It drew big crowds; I, myself, and my grandchildren were through it at least three times.

The layout of the grounds was also great. The placement of the midway, the parking lots, food courts, entertainment tent and all the other activities could not have been better.

I have been going to the Spencerville Fair since my parents took me as a young boy, and I took my children and now I am taking my grandchildren. We look forward to next year's fair.

The thing I like most about the fair is although it has something for everyone, the fair still retains its rural country agricultural theme.

The complete fair board needs to be applauded for a job well done, and also all the people who brought items to the fair deserve a big thank you. I know the fair board spends countless hours on these fairs and is probably already working on the fair for 2006.

Thanks for the great weekend and for the memories.

George Vail
Augusta

We're tired of hearing from this messenger

The Editor;

My husband is a member of the Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal Volunteer Fire Department and I would like to thank you for printing Mrs Grant's letters. They have become a great source of entertainment and bewildered amusement both at home and around both stations. I mean the way these "facts" and figures just seem to appear out of mid-air with no reference as to where or from whom such information was obtained.

May I also thank Mrs. Grant for being such a "stalwart" supporter of the fire department as we have all heard (many times now) that her husband has been a member for 26 years (as if this helps to justify her "facts"). I'm sure everyone at both stations appreciates all of her "support," but please enough of this tough love and empty pettiness.

Honourariums are given for emergency calls, training and association meetings only. They do not cover the time that is spent away from home working on vehicle/apparatus maintenance (cleaning and inspecting), fire hall maintenance, parades, fire prevention or fundraising for MD, nor does it cover the wear and tear on personal vehicles and clothing. Volunteer firefighters are not in this for the money; they do it for the community. Perhaps if the honourariums bother Mrs. Grant so much, she could give those 26 years worth of honourariums back to the township and get some sleep at night.

So please, Mrs. Grant, show us some reference to your facts and research; but for now we got the message, and the truth is we're tired of hearing it.

Melissa Mason-Hale
Cardinal

SCHOOL SCENE

Algonquin Public School: On Tuesday, Sept. 20, Algonquin parents/guardians were invited to attend a "Literacy Hour" organized by Kindergarten and Grade 1 teachers. Parents were introduced to techniques they can use at home to help build their child's reading skills.

As well, they received handouts for further reference, gained access to the Ministry of Education's literacy Web site and viewed clips for the Literacy Connections video, which they also can sign out to further explore techniques for building literacy skills.

Literacy Co-ordinator Wenda Taylor, along with resource teacher Margot Snow and Kindergarten teachers Andrea Lavender-Smith and Margot Snow, recognize the importance of building a strong reading foundation as a base for further studies. We applaud them for their initiative in providing parents with this special opportunity. As this Literacy Hour was for adults only, alternate child-care provisions were offered to any parent needing child-care arrangements.

Boundary Street Public School: Last Wednesday, school council met for the first time this year. The following individuals are members of council: L. Mundy, L. Stoddard, K. Lubimiv, P. Bailey, P. Taylor, D. Shaver, S. McAllister and W. Porteous. Fundraising plans for this year were discussed and information will be sent home soon.

Student council held a very successful bake sale. $115 was raised for the Terry Fox Walk. We appreciate all of the baked goods that were prepared for this cause. In total, $227 was collected.

Members of this year's student council will be selected this week. Voting will take place Wednesday with results announced at our assembly on Friday.

The cross-country team will be training at lunch every day this week. Their first meet will be held in Iroquois on Sept. 30.

Hot lunch this week is pizza.

Centennial '67 and North Edwardsburgh Public Schools: The next cross-country meet will take place in Iroquois this Friday, Sept. 30. Parents are welcome to attend.

A reminder that North Edwardsburgh dental screening will be on Thursday the 29th for "B" Kindergarten.

Character awards will be presented at the month-end assembly to be held on Thursday at Centennial '67. Character awards are recognition students develop appropriate behavior and attitudes towards themselves and others. There will be a monthly theme. This month's theme is "respect;" the categories are: Academic; Athletic; Arts/All Around Awesome; Attendance; and Attitude.

A reminder the open house and BBQ will be held this Thursday, Sept. 29. Parents may visit the classrooms and meet the staff at North Edwardsburgh between 4:30 and 5:30 pm and Centennial '67 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.

Donations of books and magazines are always welcome at both schools and are very much appreciated! Both schools are collecting Campbell Soup labels to purchase books for our school library. The library in North Edwardsburgh is now separate from the kindergarten class giving students more room to enjoy their library time. There has been a library change at Centennial also. The computer lab and library are now separate, giving the students at Centennial plenty of space in both rooms.

Travelling Tuesdays will commence in October at Centennial '67 for track and field and fitness training. We welcome back Fran and Kathy from the school board office.

Central Public School: Staff were pleased to hold a very successful open house Sept. 22. The evening was well-attended; we acknowledge the student and parent volunteers who helped us host the event and the parents and businesses who graciously donated items for the prizes and raffles held.

What a busy week in Kindergarten! We learned about bus safety, had our school pictures taken, welcomed a new student and attended our school's Scholastic Book Fair! We acknowledge the families who sent in basket donations and/or bake sale items for our open house.

The cross-country running season is off to a roaring start. This Friday, there is the first meet in Iroquois followed by the championship meet at the Memorial Centre in Brockville the following Friday. Good luck to all of our runners. We acknowledge the coaches for their dedication.

Parents and guardians are invited to attend the first school advisory council meeting of this year on Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 6 pm in the staff room. Elections will be conducted.

St. Mark Catholic School: Welcome to autumn! It's hard to believe we have been in school almost one month.

This week, we are kicking off our FROG program, which stands for Facilitated Reading for Optimum Growth. This balanced literacy strategy helps the classroom teachers fit in 35 minutes of guided reading three times per week.

We welcome back all of our volunteers and ask anyone considering volunteering to contact our office for a package to complete.

Our lead math teacher will be receiving training this week on the revised math curriculum.

Our first Catholic school council meeting will be held Wednesday, Oct. 5 at 7 pm in the school library.

Hot lunch begins next Wednesday and Thursday; it will be hamburgers.

South Edwardsburg Public School: A number of great things have been going on at South Edwardsburg to increase students' life and learning chances. The young athletes have been training for upcoming cross-country meets with the help of their coaches, Mr. McElrea and Mrs. Smith. Their first meet will be in Iroquois this Friday, Sept. 30.

South Edwardsburg hosted a very successful open house last week. Parents had the opportunity to fill in surveys about how their children learn best. Teachers will be using that information to plan lessons and activities that appeal to a variety of learning styles.

September continues to be Terry Fox Month at South Edwardsburg. Staff use the strong character of Terry Fox as a model for our Character Education Program.

Quilting group is taking shape

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT

The quilters are once again in full swing for the fall and winter. If someone would like to learn to quilt, they are welcome to join the group on Thursdays at 1 pm or 7 pm.

If you prefer to work on your own project, there is lots of table space and good conversation. We have just lifted a blue and white lone star quilt off the frame which will be for sale and can be seen during the studio tour this Saturday and Sunday.

If you enjoy hand quilting, why don't you come and help us do the new quilt we have stretched on the frame? It is a cobblestone scrap quilt with a beige background.

As well as these quilts, we will also have the hardanger stitchers and rug hookers demonstrating. Join us for the Seaway Colour Studio Tour, enjoy watching the artists work or have some lunch this Saturday and Sunday.

Our lunch on Sept. 30 at 11:30 am will be soup and sandwich. Please call 925-5300 and reserve your spot.

Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Bea Hemsley; 2nd, Kitty Wormington; door, Ruth Betsworth. Fun bridge ­ Candy Alexander. Tuesday night cribbage ­ 1st, Mary Reynolds; 2nd, Micheline Cook; 3rd, Hilda Hutton. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Ruth Britnell; 2nd, Bea Hemsley. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Jean Annable; 2nd, Jessie Shaver; 3rd, Lou Baldwin; door, Claire Marchand.

Bridge meeting expected in late October

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council is in the process of organizing a public meeting in October to let people know about plans for bridge reconstruction in Spencerville next summer.

Township CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald told The Journal Thursday a public meeting on the repairs of the Spencerville bridge, which was tentatively set for Sept. 29, would be moved back until later in October.

Counties Director of Works, Planning Services and Asset Management, Les Shepherd, indicated the meeting would likely be rescheduled to the evening of Oct. 27 at the township office in Spencerville, in order to be better prepared to update the public on the project.

"We weren't quite ready yet," explained Shepherd. "We wanted to do it properly the first time. We will have a consultant available to talk about the options for the bridge and what was settled on and the reasoning."

Shepherd indicated a number of other variables would also be discussed at the meeting, although he hopes to make it more of a drop in session where there will be displays for the public to examine rather than a meeting format.

"There are concerns about things such as emergency services when the bridge will be out of service," said Shepherd. "We plan to have some information on what we are going to do if the road is closed and the time of year everything would need to be done."

Shepherd indicated the bridge will be a major project, with the current scenario being to replace the bridge rather than repair it.

"The bridge is in poor condition for bridges," explained Shepherd.

"We've talked to the consultant and it's fine right now as long as nothing changes, but we're going to keep checking it monthly. It's looking like a total removal and replacement next year. It will be a new bridge from the rock up."

Studying alternative energy options would be a worthwhile project: ECBA

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - A study on possible alternative energy sources which could be used by the township in the future is what the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Business Association (ECBA) had in mind when seeking approval from municipal council on a funding application to the Eastern Ontario Development Fund for a study.

ECBA Director Chris Kempffer told The Journal the application was put together by the business association as a way to be socially responsible as well as to possibly find a project which will benefit the township in the future.

Kempffer indicated among the many forms of alternative energy in its study proposal included wind power, solar power at the Port of Prescott, water power from the St. Lawrence River in front of Casco and Sithe Energies and the burning of methane gas from Casco's plant.

"The study is to look at all possible sites and energy sources for the area," explained Kempffer. "The fact it's socially conscientious and we have multiple opportunities and catalysts in place with the steam and electricity in Cardinal to make it feasible."

Kempffer indicated the project would be a good one for the township.

"It also has potential to help the municipality along to generate some revenue," explained Kempffer, "as well as help out with the energy needs in the area."

Kempffer indicated the business association had received its non-profit status which allows it to apply for funding grants, but still requires approval from the township on the application, although the administration committee has already expressed its support for the request for funding to complete the study.

At a Sept. 19 meeting in Spencerville, council indicated it would ask members of the ECBA to attend the Oct. 3 council meeting to further update them on the particulars of the application for funding to complete the study.

Kempffer indicated members of the business association are ready to address council and share their vision.

"We have the process mapped out," explained Kempffer. "We have a good plan in place and hope council will support it. We are willing to do the footwork to get a project like this in place."

Forest open house to be held Sunday afternoon

LIMERICK FOREST ­ An open house at Limerick Forest will take place Sunday, Oct. 2 from noon to 4 pm.

The fourth annual event at the community forest starts with a free barbecue lunch served from noon to 1 pm.

Other activities include horse-drawn wagon forest tours as well as ice storm recovery and microburst damage tours, nature walks, GPS fun and things for the kids to do.

The Limerick Forest Chalet is located at 1175 Limerick Rd., north of Roebuck.

For more information on the open house, call 342-9246, ext. 16 or go online and visit www.limerickforest.ca.

Jr. B Rangers start season with perfect 4-0-0-0 record

CARDINAL - For the third year in a row, the South Grenville Jr. B Rangers have started the season with a perfect 4-0 record.

The Rangers had two strong outings this week with wins over the Brockville Tikis on Wednesday and the Gananoque Islanders Saturday.

On Saturday, South Grenville came out firing and kept the pressure on as the Rangers scored an 8-2 victory over the Islanders in Cardinal.

South Grenville got off to an early 2-0 lead in the first period with power play goals from Steve LeDuc and Tim Thomas, before Gananoque would tally back on the power play. Andy Orsini, Peter Veltkamp, Julien Francis and Derek Rupert picked up helpers on the first two markers. Orsini scored in the final few minutes of the frame to increase the Rangers lead to 3-1. Sixteen-year-old newcomer Nathaniel Ashley and Dustin Swan added assists.

South Grenville continued its strong play in the second period to score three unanswered goals from Adam Lawrence, Orsini and James Craig to increase the lead to 6-1 heading into the third. Matt Hayes, Ashley, LeDuc, Thomas and Francis chipped in with helpers.

South Grenville got caught napping in the third period, which resulted in an Islanders' goal on a rebound with about six minutes left in the game.

The Rangers wouldn't let the goal go unanswered, as a couple minutes later Ryan Sullivan while holding off an Islanders forward with one arm behind his own net, fired a nice up-ice pass to a streaking Lawrence who was left all alone to net a highlight-reel goal and increase the lead to 7-1.

A minute later, South Grenville would put the final touch on its victory as Ashley netted his first goal of the season, with assists going to Brad and Chris Crook.

Rangers coach Rod Simmons was happy with his team's victory and improved defensive showing in the game.

"We're starting to work very well," explained Simmons. "We worked very well together and took care of our defensive game. The guys played well from the pipes out, and system-wise the guys are picking it up. The defence is getting stronger with every game; the forwards are cycling the
puck and winning faceoffs. We're coming together all around."

Simmons indicated there is no added pressure because of the perfect start to the season.

"We've been here before," said Simmons. "It's still early and we're just taking things
one game at a time and trying to stay injury-free to see how it goes."

Rangers goaltender Brad Simmons, who got the victory in goal over the Islanders, indicated his second win of the year was a sweet experience.

"We're improving and
working well together at every game and practice," said
the younger Simmons. "Right now it feels pretty damn good, but we just need to keep working hard and just go and play
each game and not overlook anyone."

On Wednesday, Rupert continued his torrid scoring pace by scoring a pair of goals, while Orsini, Chad Gillisie and Nick Maggio also tallied singles. Orsini (2), Veltkamp (2), LeDuc (2), Francis and Thomas had assists in the game, while Rangers keeper David LaBaff looked strong between the pipes holding off the Tikis attack for a 5-3 victory.

South Grenville continues its season on the road Friday night against the Westport Rideaus before returning home Saturday to host the Athens Aeros at 7:15 pm at the Cardinal and District Community Centre.

Rangers Wrap-up: A scout from Wentworth University (a Division III NCAA school) attended the Sept. 18 game in Athens to check out Rangers forward Derek Rupert. Sixteen-year-old Nathaniel Ashley looked good in his first Jr. B game with a multiple-point night. South Grenville's Dustin Swan, who played forward on last year's team, is playing defence this year. Last week's
Jr. A hockey game in Brockville saw former Rangers forward David Lun score on former teammate Greg Richardson.

Rideau-St. Lawrence Jr. B Hockey League Standings

Rideau Division

Teams GP W L T OTL GF GA Pts.

South Grenville Rangers 4 4 0 0 0 25 10 8

Westport Rideaus 4 3 1 0 0 21 14 6

Gananoque Islanders 4 2 2 0 0 20 16 4

Brockville Tikis 4 1 3 0 0 17 29 2

Athens Aeros 4 0 4 0 0 5 36 0

Junior Giants fare well at tournaments

PRESCOTT - The 2005-06 curling season will get under way Sunday afternoon at the Prescott Curling Club.

The club kicks off its season with a new-curler bonspiel this Sunday at 1 pm at the club.

The event is open to any adult who is interested in trying the sport. Newcomers taking part in the event will receive instruction and tips from members to help get themselves started.

Anyone interested in participating is advised to wear warm loose fitting clothes and clean running shoes.

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

New curler bonspiel set for this Saturday

OTTAWA - The South Grenville Giants junior girls basketball team had a busy weekend
playing in a tournament in Orleans Friday and Saturday
and another in Williamstown Sunday.

At the St. Matthew Fall Classic in Orleans, the Giants had a strong showing to post a 1-2 record on the day including a tough two-point loss to Colonel By.

In the opener, the Giants managed to pull out a 40-32 victory over Ecole de I'lle after being tied at 16 at the half. Jessica Rupert led the South Grenville charge to score 14 points, followed by Carley Sullivan with 10 and Lindsay Francis and Charlene Smith with four apiece.

South Grenville managed to take an 18-16 lead into the half of the Giants game against Colonel By, but ended up running out of steam in a 44-42 loss.

South Grenville's guards led the Giants charge with rookie point guard Tannis Olson netting 17 points in a losing cause, while Rupert chipped in 16. Kami Perrin added four points.

In its final match-up of the tournament, South Grenville played against a very strong Ashbury Colts private school team, which is one of the dominant teams from the Ottawa region. The Giants trailed
27-15 at the half, and Ashbury continued its dominance in the second half to score a 51-31
victory.

Rupert netted 12 points to lead the Giants, followed by Olson with seven and Sullivan and Roode with four apiece.

At the tournament in Williamstown, the Giants posted a 1-0-1 record at the tournament by scoring a victory over LaCitadelle, before gym availability put an end to overtime in a tie against the host Char-Lan team.

Against LaCitadelle, the Giants came out strong and took a 27-9 lead into the half, before continuing its strong play to cruise to a 51-18 victory. Rupert led South Grenville with a 14-point performance, followed by Jessie Hyland and Roode with six apiece and Sullivan with five. Alanna Lasenba, Kaitlyn Utman and Sheila King each chipped in four points.

In South Grenville's 35-35 draw with Char-Lan, Rupert scored 16 points to
lead the way. Sullivan added eight, while Olson chipped in seven.

Giants coach Ken Lynch indicated he was happy with the team's play against its much larger opponents all weekend, noting the team should make for a competitive team in league play.

"We're really happy to
have Jessica Rupert back in junior ball," explained Lynch. "She's our leader and hardest worker. Also, Tannis Olson is going to be a very good point guard and distribute the ball well."

Lynch indicated he's also looking for a lot from some of the other returning players such as post play from Sullivan and leadership from Smith and Perrin.

The Giants kicked off the regular season yesterday by hosting the Rideau Lions. The juniors will battle the North Grenville Knights Thursday afternoon at 3 pm in Prescott.

SGDHS senior girls basketball team shows intensity at McGill tournament

MONTREAL - The South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team had another good exhibition showing this weekend at a tournament at McGill University in Montreal.

The Giants, who are gearing up for a run at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) senior girls AA championships hosted by South Grenville this year, had a respectable showing at the tournament and are feeling confident heading into its regular season schedule.

"The girls had a good weekend," said Giants coach Joe Latham. "I love the intensity they're playing with and how they are improving with each game we had. For the team to get away to Montreal on a trip like this, they loved it; they had some fun and are just a great group of girls that gets along really well with one another."

While Latham is impressed with his core of Sam Joudoin, Sara Watt and Jaime Grimes leading the way, he couldn't say enough about his newcomers and their visible improvement.

"Our young girls are still in awe at times but are really coming along well," explained Latham. "Chelsea Roode showed all weekend she belonged, while Kristen Jessome and Sarah Perrin came to play and showed some aggressiveness on D and Michelle McDonald had to have been one of the leading rebounders in the tournament all weekend."

South Grenville started the tournament off on a high note scoring a 42-28 victory over St. Joseph (Cornwall) to stay in the A-bracket. Jaime Grimes led the South Grenville charge with 19 points, followed by Sam Joudoin with nine and Sara Watt with eight.

In game two, South Grenville's eight-player team took on a deep 14-player CEGEP team Auhnistic and dropped a 46-35 decision. The Giants continued to pressure late into the game narrowing the lead to two in the final four minutes but then ran out of gas as Auhnistic pulled away. Watt led the Giants with 11 points, followed by Carrie Calhoun with 10 and Grimes with nine.

In its final game of the tournament, South Grenville dropped a 49-30 decision to CEGEP team Merici, after making an early comeback attempt in the second half which fell short. Grimes scored 12 to lead the Giants, while Watt added 11 in the loss.

South Grenville started its regular season campaign yesterday when it hosted the Rideau Lions. The Giants will now play host to the North Grenville Knights Thursday afternoon at approximately 4:30 pm in Prescott.

The Giants will also host a four-team mini-tournament Saturday at the high school. Games start at 9 am and run until 6 pm with South Grenville's game times at 9 am, noon and 4:30 pm. Joining the Giants in the tournament will be Tagwi, Perth and either Arnprior or Smiths Falls.

SGMHA still has spots open

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Minor Hockey Association (SGMHA) still has spots available for the upcoming season.

Lots of spots are available until Oct. 2 for Ron Baker's beginner group.

For more information contact registrar Jane Shankar at 925-2688 or call Convenor Greg Dennison at 925-3389.

The SGMHA is also looking for committee volunteers for the Todd Gill Shootout minor midget AA/AAA tournament in Cardinal on Jan. 12-15 and the Riverside Pontiac major midget AA/AAA tournament in Prescott Mar. 30-Apr. 2.

Anyone interested in volunteering should call Carolyn Mason at 657-3581.

Sayeau comes out on top of ladies closing

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Golf Club held its ladies closing event Sept. 18 to cap off its highly successful season.

Barb Sayeau had the low gross of the day shooting an 82, while Nancy Dye scored the low net with a score of 66.

Diane Throop had the low gross in the senior ladies category with an 84, while Olga Brougham scored the top ladies nine hole total with a 52.

Alice Baynham had the lowest putts over nine holes with 19, while Candy Alexander had the lowest putts over 18 holes with 27.

Other results include:

A Class

Heather MacKay, low gross, 88; Candy Alexander, low net, 74; Dale Duncan, 2nd low gross, 88; Audrey Moore, 2nd low net, 75

B Class

Elsie McIntosh, low gross, 92; Toni Arbuckle, low net, 70; Norma Martineau, 2nd low gross, 94; Sheila Bush, 2nd low net, 72; Donna Stewart, 3rd low gross, 97; Joan Graham, 3rd low net, 74.

C Class

Joan Salmon, low gross, 99; Cathy Wright, low net, 70; Irene Kuhnle, 2nd low gross, 101; Glenda Deir, 2nd low net, 72; Bonnie Veltkamp, 3rd low gross, 103; Marilee Taylor, 3rd low net, 75.

D Class

Nancy Mierau, low gross, 108; Marilyn Wensley, low net, 72; Dodie Hughes, 2nd low gross, 112; Bess Watt, 2nd low net, 73; June Rice, 3rd low gross, 112; Sheila Irvine, 3rd low net, 76.

9 hole ladies

Vi Beckstead, low gross, 57; Helen Donn, low net, 42; Mary Baker, 2nd low gross, 62.

Closest to the pin

A Class

Barb Sayeau

B Class

Norma Martineau

C Class

Irene Khunle

D Class

Jane Dukelow

9 hole ladies

Vi Beckstead

Longest Putt

9 hole ladies

Olga Brougham

18 hole ladies

Ann Gill

Closest to the line

Nancy Dye

The golf club will be holding its club closing event Oct. 8 and its annual fall meeting Oct. 4 at 7 pm.

For more information, call the club at 925-5006.