MPP unsure what more can be done about Invista strike

Walkout enters fourth month at Maitland site

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

MAITLAND - The long-running strike at Invista Maitland site is a "truly regrettable" situation for both sides, according to Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob Runciman.

"It's damaging to the local economy, it's damaging to individuals out on strike," he said Monday.

Runciman added he has spoken with the individuals on strike at the picket line in Maitland, and believes he acted as a "catalyst" before the latest round of talks which took place between Invista, representatives of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union Local 28-0 on Sept 12.

"I have been involved... My call (to the provincial mediator) prompted the last meeting which led to an offer," said Runciman, who added "I'm not sure from a political perspective what more we can do."

Runciman also stated he would not be opposed to making another call to the mediator if it would assist with further negotiations.

When asked if the ongoing strike at Invista, which is now in its 124th day, is part of an emerging trend of lengthy labour disputes in the province, Runciman replied "I hope not."

He added "My major concern is the erosion of the manufacturing base in Eastern Ontario, the loss of jobs (to other) countries and provinces."

He pointed to the closure of industries in Prescott and Brockville in the recent past as examples of this loss.

"We must retain what's remaining of (our) manufacturing base," explained Runciman. "Right now, we're going the wrong way with taxation and labour laws."

He also said the increasing movement to a service-based "retail" economy can negatively impact on the standard of living for the area in the long term. He added over the next 10 to 15 years, increasing reliance on service-based jobs could have a negative effect on local residents' ability to purchase homes.

Runciman stops short of taking either the company's or union's position in the strike action and is encouraging further negotiations by both parties.

"They should go into a hotel room (and negotiate) until they find a settlement," he stated.

"It's important for all sides to find a solution," Runciman added.

According to union local President Steve Armstrong, as of Monday afternoon "There is no date set up for talks. We're always willing to meet with the company."

THIS WEEK

Most offices are closed Thanksgiving Monday

PRESCOTT ­ The offices of The Prescott Journal and St. Lawrence Printing will be closed on Thanksgiving Monday, Oct. 10.

The early deadline for advertising in the Oct. 12 edition of The Journal is this Friday, Oct. 7 at noon.

Banks, government offices and many retailers will also be closed on the holiday Monday.

Enter pumpkin-carving contest at the market

PRESCOTT ­ This year's customer appreciation day at the Prescott Farmers Market will be a cut above the rest.

The market at the corner of King and Centre streets will host the special event this Saturday morning, Oct. 8. Live music will be performed by Elise and Company.

In addition to the appreciation day, the BIA will host the Great Pumpkin-Carving Contest on Saturday morning.

Participants can bring their own carved pumpkins to the event; they can also bring a pumpkin or purchase one at the market and do the carving at the event using their own carving tools.

There are three prize categories: ages 10 and under, 11 to 16 and 17 and up. Carvers 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Judging will take place at 11 am.

Prizes are supplied by Mr. Mozzarella, Cuts and Beyond and Chick's.

Be a mentor, be a friend to a local youngster

SOUTH GRENVILLE ­ Volunteers are needed for the in-school mentoring program operated by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville.

The volunteers serve as special friends to youngsters in grades 3 to 5. Mentors and mentees meet for one hour a week. They place 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 the Prescott area. The need to recruit additional volunteers grows as the program expands.

For more information on in-school mentoring, call Susan at 345-0281.

Bomb damages vehicle in Cardinal

Police release few details of early-morning incident; 24-year-old man charged

CARDINAL ­ A 24-year-old Cardinal man has been charged in connection with a small explosion that occurred early Sunday morning.

Provincial police were called to Dundas Street at about 1 am after there was an explosion in or near a vehicle parked in an alley.

The OPP's explosives disposal unit and emergency response team were called in to assist with the investigation.

No one was injured in the incident.

At about 1 pm Sunday, a suspect was arrested. He appeared in Brockville court on Monday

At press time, police were unavailable to provide additional information on the case or to confirm the type of explosive used.

Detective constables Nussey and Doran of the Leeds and Grenville Crime Unit are the investigating officers. Anyone who has information about this occurrence is asked to contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Volunteers helping Limerick Forest to grow

Tree planters are honoured at the annual open house

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

LIMERICK FOREST ­ Limerick Forest has honoured some of the people who helped make it grow.

Hundreds of people flocked to the forest to attend its annual open house Sunday afternoon.

Limerick Forest, which encompasses a large area where the boundaries of Augusta, Edwardsburgh/Cardinal and North Grenville meet, is owned by the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. The open house was hosted by the Limerick Forest Advisory Committee, which consists of volunteers from the community.

This year's open house included a tribute to the thousands of youngsters and adults who planted trees at the forest two or three generations ago.

Doug Struthers, warden of Leeds and Grenville and mayor of Merrickville-Wolford, said the community takes pride in acknowledging more than just the buildings which represent local history. "We always remember the human heritage," added Struthers, who also noted local residents have "a keen appreciation for the landscape."

Augusta Reeve John McCrea also spoke at the open house. He also referred to the emphasis on recognizing tree-planters from the past as well as the volunteers who are trying to maintain the legacy for generations to come. "There's a lot of hope out there," McCrea said.

Gwen Peters was a young student when she helped plant the first tree 65 years ago. Peters, who still lives in the area, was on hand Sunday to help plant a sugar maple in front of the chalet near the spot of the original planting.

She told The Journal tree-planting was just "something we had to do" when she was a girl. Peters added the importance of trees and the environment was not emphasized in school the way it is today. She noted her granddaughter was very excited about attending the open house and seeing the trees which have been planted.

Between 1940 and the late 1960s, thousands of students in the united counties area planted trees at Limerick Forest. It was noted in one day in 1963, 700 youngsters from Brockville planted 32,000 trees in an hour and a half. More than eight million trees have been planted; more than 1,900 hectares of Limerick Forest are plantations.

Alf Campbell, who oversaw the planting program for many years, recalled Limerick was the site of many firsts. For example, it was the first place to hire women to plant trees.

People are still coming up to him and telling him about how they planted trees at Limerick when they were children.

"It was great to see," Campbell remarked.

The open house included a barbecue, horse-drawn wagon rides and tours of the forest, and several displays.

Body found at fire scene

ALGONQUIN ­ The body of a 78-year-old woman was found at the scene of a house fire early Tuesday morning, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.

Augusta firefighters were called to a structure fire at 5193 Algonquin Road at 6:15 am. A 29-year-old man who reportedly called 9-1-1 was taken to Brockville General Hospital and treated for smoke inhalation.

The body was found inside the residence, which police said sustained significant damage in the fire.

No names had been released when The Journal went to press Tuesday. Police did confirm the injured man is the grandson of the deceased.

The fire marshal's office had been contacted, as had the Leeds and Grenville Crime Unit, which police said is standard procedure. Additional details were unavailable at press time; foul play had not been ruled out. A post-mortem was scheduled for late Wednesday.

OPP Detective Constable Nussey is the investigating officer.

Prescott is first tour stop for Eaton

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ Bob Eaton says he wants a true sense of what people in the riding are thinking.

The federal Liberal candidate in Leeds-Grenville launched his 20/20 Tour last Tuesday night in Prescott. By the time the tour ends in mid-November, Eaton will have hosted town-hall meetings in 20 communities in the riding.

Between 15 and 20 people showed up at the first meeting at the Prescott Golf Club. Among those who attended were International Co-operation Minister Aileen Carroll.

Eaton also made tour stops last Wednesday night in Maitland and last night (Tuesday, Oct. 4) in Spencerville. The Liberal candidate and Prescott resident said the purpose of the tour is "an attempt to reach out to folks" and listen to what they have to say.

"I can fight (from the outside) and throw stones or get on the inside and make changes from within," he said.

Several issues were raised by those who attended the Prescott meeting. Businessman Ralph Legere said he has no interest in a tax break; instead, he would like to see a government that works with the small business community and help it become more productive rather than creating a lot of regulations and red tape.

Gerry Ring, who said he has always been a Liberal, voiced concerns about the lack of programs for youth and the poor treatment veterans have received from the government. "There shouldn't have been so much to fix," Ring said.

Gill Cyr asked Eaton if he supports amending Canada's Constitution to incorporate property rights into it. The Liberal candidate indicated he is aware of the concerns but wanted to find out more about the subject before deciding whether or not to support the move. "If you don't support it, you won't get my vote," responded Cyr, who noted there are many people in the region who are fed up with governments at all levels.

Carroll and Eaton also heard concerns about free trade and how it has hurt the local economy and been detrimental to Canada. Carroll acknowledged it is frustrating and irritating to see the American's defiant response to rulings in favour of Canada, particularly in the area of softwood lumber tariffs. "Canada has won three times... and still the American attitude is to shrug," Carroll said.

The minister noted statistics show Free Trade has been good for the Canadian economy and productivity; however, she conceded there are problems which needs to be addressed.

As for changes implemented while Paul Martin has been Liberal leader and prime minister, Carroll noted backbenchers now have more power in policy and decision-making processes.

The minister said it is important for MPs "...to be very available to the people we represent." Carroll credited Eaton for being an excellent candidate who is making an effort to hear from local residents.

Ring referred to Eaton as "a man of the people" who needs "a lot of support and a lot of hope" to get elected. Leeds-Grenville is represented by Gord Brown of the Conservatives.

Upcoming stops on the 20/20 Tour include meetings on Oct. 18 at the Cardinal Legion and Oct. 26 at the South Edwardsburgh Community Centre in Johnstown.

Working together is the key: Bélanger

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - Minister of Internal Trade and Deputy Leader of the Government in the House of Commons Mauril Bélanger was in Prescott Friday preaching how all communities in Eastern Ontario should have a united front when dealing with economic development.

Bélanger was in town as part of Leeds-Grenville federal Liberal candidate Bob Eaton's golf tournament which raised funds to support a number of local causes such as Access for Success, which is raising money to put an elevator in Brockville Collegiate Institute to better accommodate the physically challenged, the Food For All Food Bank in Prescott and the food bank in Westport.

The minister spoke of his economic development initiative and indicated some of South Grenville's main concerns are similar to many other communities in Eastern Ontario where jobs are a major concern.

Bélanger explained Eaton was on the right track with his 20/20 Tour to find out the concerns of his potential constituents.

"People in this area want greater economic growth and want an enhanced economic well being," said Bélanger. "We in Eastern Ontario must learn to work together a little better and market the region as a whole."

He indicated the split between urban and rural must be forgotten and the overall union of communities within Eastern Ontario must grow stronger in order for the area to compete with larger markets for jobs and potential income.

"We have 12 post-secondary educational institutes in the region and numerous research capabilities including the many ministries in the whole Ottawa area," explained Bélanger. "Half of the country's research is done in Eastern Ontario and we should have a network between all of this so we can build on each other's work."

He indicated the local feedback and united front on economic development would be part of the platform the party would look to incorporate as it prepares for an expected spring election.

Fort Town concert season begins this Friday night

PRESCOTT ­ The Fort Town Concert Association's 2005-2006 season kicks off later this week.

One Two Trio! will perform on Friday, Oct. 7 at 8 pm at St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church on Centre Street.

The trio consists of clarinetist Jean-François Normand, cellist Rafael Hoekman and pianist Mathieu Gaudet. The musical program will include gems from the German romantic repertoire which are sure to stir listeners with the exalting emotion of composers such as Brahms and Schumann. The giddy joy of celebration will be expressed in many forms through the playing of Fantasy Trio by the American composer Muczynski as well as a new work by young Quebec composer Maxime Goulet.

The Oct. 7 concert is sponsored by Mayfield Retirement Residence and Wiser Hall.

Tickets can be purchased at the door. A special reduced rate is in place for students between the ages of 12 and 18. Children under 12 are admitted free. Season tickets are available.

For more than 20 years, the Fort Town Concert Association has been bringing professional musicians to the Prescott area. The local volunteer group presents the 2005-2006 concert series in association with Jeunesses Musicales of Canada.

Town selects developer for north-end subdivision; prices yet to be finalized

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The municipality is working on the fine print of an agreement to develop an 80-unit subdivision in the northeast section of town.

Fieldstone Developments, an Ottawa firm, has been selected by Prescott council. Three companies had been interviewed as part of the process to create single-family and semi-detached homes in an area to the north of Mackenzie, Massie and Woodland.

Prescott's planning and development committee discussed development options during a closed-door meeting last Monday night. After reconvening in open session, the committee recommended "...the mayor and CAO be directed to proceed toward and agreement with Fieldstone Developments for the purchase and development of the new subdivision."

By approving the minutes of the meeting, council adopted the committee's recommendation.

Town officials reported Monday night only two firms were still in the running when the recommendation was made; a third bidder, which included Beck's Construction, had withdrawn its submission.

At a committee meeting last month, Town Engineer Clyde Solomon indicated the three developers had suggested houses ranging from $180,000 to $250,000. Councillor Nancy Lane said Monday those prices are not affordable to many people in Prescott who might want to live in the subdivision. Councillor Jo-Anne Beckstead indicated she is hoping to have a higher range of prices at the lower end, but she added she does not have a problem with some homes being at the high end of the suggested range.

When asked about the affordability issue at the end of Monday's council meeting, Mayor Robert Lawn said he could not answer the question. Lawn added the term affordable is vague.

Councillor and planning committee chair Chuck Street pointed out individual lots will be available for sale. He and Lawn emphasized the municipality does not intend to make a profit from developing the lots; the intent is to recover the costs associated with servicing the new residential area.

The section to the north of Massie Drive is the first phase of the project. Although it had been hoped a small number of houses would be constructed by the end of the year, that is now unlikely.

Officials launch Web site and profile

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

EODF-funded projects aimed at generating new prospects for the South Grenville area

SOUTH GRENVILLE - A recently-completed community economic profile and Web site is designed to bring business to the South Grenville area and keep it there.

The official launch of the site and profile by the South Grenville Economic Development Committee was held Sept. 28 at town hall in Prescott.

Prescott CAO/Clerk Robert Haller believes the new site and profile to be an invaluable tool in terms of both new business recruitment and current business retention and expansion. "It's a one-stop shop for economic development (in the) region," he stated.

Haller also emphasized the site and profile serves not only to give information and promote the town of Prescott, but also the municipalities of Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

"The reality is, anyone interested in Prescott is interested in all of South Grenville," he said. "The market is not the 4,000 residents of Prescott, but the 18,000 residents of South Grenville."

The profile and Web site was completed this summer by economic development intern Doug DeVries of Williamsburg, who stated the site is designed to promote not only the area as a good place to do business, but also a good place to live.

The project was funded through the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF), an initiative of Industry Canada. This fund is administered locally by Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation in Prescott. This funding included $12,500 from the youth internship program (which paid the salary of DeVries) and $5,000 from the local initiatives program, which paid for the Web site.

"What we're able to provide (with the Web site) is unified information about the entire region," added Haller. "Anyone setting up a business is serving the greater region."

During the presentation, DeVries stated that, while much of the information on the profile was already available, the importance of the profile is it draws all of the information together in one place, instead of visiting several different sites or contacting a number of different organizations and agencies.

Information provided in the economic profile on the Web site includes information about the South Grenville region's economic history, transportation, demographics, taxation rates, land availability and industrial parks, and key industries and employers.

Hard copies of this profile are also available.

Haller also said another important aspect of the profile on the site is it will be continuously updated as information such as tax and utility rates becomes outdated.

Haller added utility and tax rates will be updated yearly, while information like the demographic data will be updated every five years as the new numbers become available.

"It (the Web site and profile) means a great deal," stated Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn. He added an important aspect of these tools is that they represent the Town of Prescott and the municipalities of Augusta and Edwardsburgh/Cardinal co-operating in economic development. "We do need to work together," he said. "The most important thing is the co-operation between municipalities."

Frank Noccey, who sits on the South Grenville committee and is also an Edwardsburgh/Cardinal councillor, stated "Well, hopefully, it (profile and Web site) will help us develop our industrial park." He added the site gives the tools for the municipalities involved to encourage industry. "We (Edwardsburgh/Cardinal) already have the Port of Prescott," he added.

Shirley Ellis of Augusta, who also sits on the committee, stated "this is an area marketing tool."

To check out the new Web site and profile, log on to www.SouthGrenville.com.

Town offers land for new OPP detachment

PRESCOTT ­ Town council is trying to do its part to ensure the new Grenville County OPP detachment is located in Prescott.

Now that the province has confirmed it will proceed with replacing the existing facility south of Highway 401 at the intersection of Edward Street and Prescott Centre Drive, the town is offering a site on municipal land on Development Drive just north of the 401. The province has put out a request for proposals (RFP) in connection with the local detachment.

The matter was discussed last Monday night during an in-camera meeting of the town's planning and development committee. Following its lengthy closed-door discussion, the committee reconvened an open meeting and approved the following resolution: "That council offer a parcel of two to three acres at no cost on a 100-year lease to any developer bidding on the RFP to build and lease back the new OPP detachment building for Prescott, and that the lease include a clause for future purchase of the land and council commits to providing water and sewer services as soon as financially feasible."

Planning committee chair, Councillor Chuck Street, said the servicing would involve the entire Development Drive area and not just the new detachment building. "We haven't approved to spend any money," Street said.

Mayor Robert Lawn noted the town has an arrangement with the Riverside car dealership which relocated to Development Drive last year. When water and sewer lines are extended to the north side of the 401, Riverside would be reimbursed the cost of installing a septic system.

"That's still our position," Lawn added.

The deadline for the Ontario Realty Corporation request for proposals is later this month. Lawn said he believes the new facility would be built by May of next year.

Street said council would do everything it could to ensure the station stays within Prescott's municipal boundaries.

Review the revised plan next week

PRESCOTT ­ An open house to present an update on the review of Prescott's official plan will be held next Wednesday, Oct. 12 from 5 to 7 pm at town hall on Dibble Street West.

It has been nearly 15 years since the existing official plan ­ the document that sets direction for land use and other aspects of the community ­ was last updated. The current review has been under way for several months; proposed changes will be outlined at the open house.

Mayor Robert Lawn said it is important for a revised plan to be in place by next year so the municipality can proceed with a new zoning bylaw. The mayor added he would then like to see a community improvement plan developed for Prescott's downtown area.

EODF agrees to fund cycling maps for South Grenville

PRESCOTT ­ The Bike South Grenville initiative has received federal money to print a map of cycling routes in the area.

The Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF) will make it possible for the local group to print 20,000 copies of the map which was created as part of a study which was also funded by EODF. The funding was announced by Prescott Councillor and Bike South Grenville committee member Sue O'Hanlon at Monday night's council meeting.

Bicycle tourism generates an estimated $7 million a year for the regional economy, O'Hanlon noted.

It is expected the maps will be produced and distributed in time for the 2006 cycling season.

Man to Men Conference aimed at countering stereotypes

BROCKVILLE ­ You don't have to be a tough guy in order to be a man.

That is one of the messages to be delivered as part of a special program aimed at adolescent males. The Man to Men Conference will take place on Monday, Oct. 31 at the Brockville Memorial Centre.

Male students in grades 10 and 11 are being encouraged to take part in the day-long program aimed at addressing the root causes of male violence and how to deal with conflict without aggression.

Among the sponsors of the event are the Upper Canada District School Board, the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario and the Assault Response and Care Centre.

Guest speaker will be former National Football League player Donald McPherson, who is founder of the Sports Leadership Institute at Adelphi University in Garden City, New York. McPherson, whose wife was killed by an NFL colleague, is uncomfortable with the tough-guy image of pro football players and has vowed to work on ending violence against women.

McPherson will talk to students in the morning. There will then be a working lunch, followed by small group discussions guided by facilitators. Following the discussions, participants will be encouraged to develop personal action plans.

Attendance is not compulsory for male students in grades 10 an 11. There is no registration fee.

Before the conference begins, McPherson will speak to a breakfast gathering at Days Inn in Brockville. The public is invited; there will be a special charge for breakfast. For more information or to register, call Cathy Spratt at the health unit (345-5685).

Other sponsors of the conference include Interval House, the Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit, Every Kid in Our Communities, Child and Youth Wellness Centre and Leeds and Grenville Rehabilitation and Counselling Services.

Health unit appoints acting MOH

BROCKVILLE ­ The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit has appointed an acting medical officer of health (MOH).

Dr. Rani G. Tolton, who works part-time at CFB Kingston and does emergency room shifts at Brockville General and Kemptville District hospitals, commences her new duties this week. She will officially start Oct. 28 and continue until a permanent MOH is hired, according to a health unit release issued Friday.

Dr. Charles Gardner, the current medical officer of health and chief executive officer (CEO), is leaving next month to become medical officer of health in Simcoe County.

The health unit also announced Joanne Pearce has been appointed acting CEO.

The search for a permanent MOH/CEO begins this week. Patrick Rowan of Feldman Gray & Associates will lead the nation-wide search.

Cemetery meeting is next week

MAYNARD ­ The regular meeting of Maynard Cemetery Inc. will be held next Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7 pm at the cemetery.

All are welcome to attend the meeting.

Annual United Way arts and crafts show set for Nov. 5 at memorial centre

BROCKVILLE ­ The local United Way's arts and crafts show is just around the corner.

The annual event will be held Saturday, Nov. 5 from 9 am to 4 pm at the Brockville Memorial Centre.

The show will start an hour earlier than last year to give shoppers more time to see the items on display.

There will be more than 50 tables of crafts at the show. Also on display and up for sale will be homemade candy and other sweet treats, children's clothing and many Christmas gift ideas.

There is a small admission fee; children under the age of 12 are admitted free if accompanied by an adult.

Proceeds from the show help fund 25 United Way agencies in the Leeds and Grenville area.

To book a table or for more details on the arts and crafts show, call the United Way at 342-8889.

Pirelli Cables has new name

JOHNSTOWN - The Pirelli Cables plant in Johnstown will now be called Prysmian Cables and Systems Canada after the company was bought out by Goldman Sachs in July, it was announced earlier this week.

Goldman Sachs $1.86 billion investment includes the Johnstown plant as well as a plant in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec.

The Johnstown and Saint-Jean-sure-Richelieu plants collectively employ 375 people.

Take a closer look at GCC

MAITLAND ­ Grenville Christian College (GCC) will host its annual open house on Sunday, Oct. 23 from 2 to 4 pm.

The independent university preparatory school located on County Road 2 just west of Maitland offers students in Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 "...a wonderfully balanced education in mind, body and spirit," stated GCC Headmaster Gordon Mintz in a release.

For more information, call 345-5521 and ask for Christine (ext. 3112) or Toni (ext. 3367).

Acupuncture is specialty of chiropractor

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

Editor's note: The wrong name appeared in last week's article on the new chiropractor in Prescott. The Journal apologizes for the error; the following is the corrected article.

PRESCOTT - The addition of a new chiropractor to Prescott Family Chiropractic will see patients on pins and needles.

Dr. Trish Morrow, whose specialty is acupuncture, has joined Dr. Gauri Shankar's office.

Morrow, a self-declared small-town girl comes to Prescott from Keane (a community of about 400 near Peterborough) and expects to be in town for a long time.

"I really love it here," explained the enthusiastic Morrow. "The staff here and the patients have been great. Everyone is smiling and happy, which makes it an easy place to come to work."

Morrow completed her undergraduate studies at Trent University, before attending the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto, where she graduated in June.

The new chiro brings some familiarity to the area and residents, having filled in for Dr. Shankar while he was on vacation this summer as well as running a small acupuncture clinic in Morrisburg.

In addition to her specialty, Morrow also brings a wide variety of extra knowledge to the job, working with family-orientated cases, women through pregnancy and during child bearing years as well as experience as a personal trainer. She also noted some women may feel more comfortable with a female chiropractor to deal with conditions.

Morrow indicated her acupuncture skills should come in handy given their use on a wide variety of conditions such as lower back pain and migraines, to name a few.

"It's not for everyone," said Morrow, "but someone who might be nervous about having their neck adjusted, this is an alternate form of therapy."

Morrow indicated despite some people's reservations about the acupuncture needles, there is no reason to be afraid.

"You might feel a pin prick when the needle is inserted, or a mild burning ache for a moment, but it's not painful," said Morrow. "It's not like a needle at the doctors; some people don't even feel the prick."

Apartment units receive new lease on life from building owners, CMHC program

By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor

PRESCOTT ­ The co-owner of a King Street West building is optimistic about Prescott's potential.

Ana Maria Rutenberg and her daughter-in-law, Dawn Rutenberg, purchased the Keilty Building last September. The heritage property houses the Dollar Store on the ground floor and four apartments, two on the second floor and two more on the third.

"We thought it would be a good investment," Ana Maria said.

However, Rutenberg acknowledged the building, which dates back to the 1870s, was in great need of work when she purchased it.

After the purchase, Rutenberg was reading an Ottawa newspaper when she found an advertisement about a Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) program. CMHC is the federal agency which, in addition to providing access to housing funding and information, is responsible for federal assisted housing programs.

With the help of the grant of $96,000, extensive renovations have been made to the four two-bedroom apartments. The upgrades include a new roof, furnace and flooring as well as general improvements to the upper-floor units.

Two requirements of the CMHC program are that a cap be placed on rental fees, and tenants' income must be lower than a specified amount. Rutenberg said she is seeking tenants who respect property and "know the value of a dollar."

Upgrades to the apartments are almost complete. An official opening will be held sometime in October.

Rutenberg, who lives in Ottawa (her son and his family lives in Prescott), believes the town has a lot of good things going for it. She sees investing in older properties like the Keilty Building and new development such as condominiums and residential lots as "a very positive story for Prescott."

Local man alleges lead poisoning in multi-million-dollar lawsuit

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

JOHNSTOWN - Gilles Charbonneau says he cannot work, had his family life thrown in turmoil and continues to suffer negative health effects because he was poisoned by lead in 1994.

And now he's expecting several defendants to pay a total of $10 million because of what he's experienced.

In his lawsuit, Charbonneau is naming London, Ontario-based contractor Ellis-Don Ltd, The Ministry of Labour, Public Works and Governments of Canada and Corrections Service of Canada as well as the Montfort Hospital and his former family doctor, Dr. Dan Sweet of Ottawa. The suit was filed by Charbonneau's Ottawa lawyer, Erik Grzela, on April 6 of this year.

Charbonneau, who moved from Ottawa to Johnstown in May, says the poisoning occurred in June 1994 when his Kingston-based concrete company, Blue Diamond Drilling and Concrete Inc, was contracted to "wet-drill" holes in concrete walls in cells of the Kingston Penitentiary.

Charbonneau explained there was lead paint in the area they were working in, but the contractor (Ellis-Don Ltd.) didn't tell his company it was there. "Ellis-Don knew about the lead before they priced the job," said Charbonneau. "All the subs (sub-contractors) didn't"

While Charbonneau claims the wet-drilling process by his company didn't create dust, he stated that because the job was running behind schedule, a worker from Ellis-Don came into the area where he and his workmen were working in, and created dust by removing plaster from the walls.

According to the lawsuit issued by Charbonneau's lawyer, a stop-work order was issued by the Ministry of Labour for the penitentiary on August 2nd, 1994 until a written procedure for the removal of plaster containing lead was submitted. Ellis-Don also ordered all of their employees and sub-contractors to get tested for lead poisoning. Charbonneau also stated three of Ellis-Don's employees later died from lead poisoning.

When he was tested in 1994, the result of Charbonneau's test was 1.4 milligrams of lead per litre of blood, which was double the amount prescribed for 'red flagging' by the Ministry of Labour.

A couple of months after his firm completed the work at the Kingston Penn, Charbonneau says he started feeling physical symptoms, including leg pains, muscle cramps and back pain. He also stated in 1995-1996, he began experiencing "mental fatigue," which he also attributes to lead. He added this condition, coupled with his physical maladies, made him unable to continue working. He closed down his business, which he had founded in 1993, in Sept. 1998. He is currently 47.

"The business was running excellent, but I couldn't run it... I was so sick, bills were coming in and they were going in the garbage."

Charbonneau added in 1998, he was paralyzed for six weeks. "They had to carry me to go to the bathroom," he stated.

During this time, he also said he was unable to take care of his daughters, now 22 and 24. "My older daughter was living on the street for a while," he added.

Charbonneau also says that doctors have been reluctant to diagnose him with lead poisoning, instead saying that he suffered from depression. "For six years I asked my doctor (Sweet) to send me to a lead poisoning specialist. He refused."

He is currently living on disability. However, Charbonneau says he is on it for the wrong illness. "I've been diagnosed with the wrong reason," he stated, adding his illness for the purposes of disability is mental illness and chronic pain.

While he feels his poisoning debacle is "mostly Ellis-Don's fault," he also says that Corrections Canada and Public Works Canada is also responsible for his experiences, because they didn't warn workers of the risk of lead contamination.

"They should have put up a sign coming into the work site warning of lead," he stated. "The only sign was for (hard) hats, (safety) glasses and safety boots."

Charbonneau continues to have elevated levels of lead in his body. In his last urine test in Dec. 2004, his amount of lead was in the "very elevated" category.

A copy of the report done by Icmt Laboratory in Ottawa at the time reads "This individual's urine exceeds three times the upper excreted limit per the reference population." It goes on to say that, because of this level, it is anticipated the individual will encounter "significant burden with attempted detoxification of lead."

As of The Journal's press time, no comment had been received from any of the defendants which were contacted except the Ministry of Labour. Ministry spokesperson Belinda Sutton stated "It would be inappropriate to comment because this matter is before the courts."

Missing wallet is found, but $300 is gone

PRESCOTT ­ Grenville County OPP officers responded to 48 calls for service in the Prescott patrol zone last week.

On Friday afternoon, a 42-year-old Prescott man reported his wallet had gone missing. The wallet was found on Henry Street West by a female resident; however, there was $300 missing from the wallet. Constable Howard is continuing the investigation.

Last Tuesday at 8 pm, a bicycle was reported stolen from the Prescott Public Library at 360 Dibble St. W. The 18-speed CCM Supercycle is blue and grey and is valued at $40.

Officers conducted four seat belt enforcement and RIDE checks at various locations in Prescott on Thursday and Friday. More than 100 vehicles were checked; there were no charges or warnings.

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

GFA hosts farm tour Saturday

GRENVILLE ­ The Grenville Federation of Agriculture (GFA) will host a tour of several farms in Grenville County this Saturday morning (Oct. 8).

Participants are asked to assemble at the 730 Truck Stop at 8 am. The tour includes stops at Scott Wilson's dairy farm and Barry Thompson's cash crop farm (with continental breakfast and guest speakers who are farmers and sales reps). There will also be stops at farms operated by Peter Heusser and John and Adrian Wynands before arriving back at the truck stop at about noon.

For more information on the GFA tour, call Dean Latourell at (613) 258-4252.

Harvest supper served at parish centre

CARDINAL - A harvest supper is set to take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Parish Centre at 549 Middle St. in Cardinal.

The special dinner, which will include ham, casserole and desserts, will be served this Thursday, Oct. 6 from 4:30 to 6 pm.

Admission will be charged, with a special rate being offered for children.

Preschoolers will be admitted free of charge.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I'm not sure from a political perspective what more we can do."

Editor's Notebook

ONE DOOR OPENS, ANOTHER CLOSES: For every ribbon-cutting photo opportunity these days, there seems to be a door which is being closed and locked. Although there have been several openings or relocations in recent weeks, there have also been many closings. The problem is most evident in downtown Prescott, as a number of long-time businesses have shut down for one reason or another. The loss of Bingo International has received a great deal of attention, but we should not lose sight of the loss of several locally-owned companies and businesses which employed people, generated tax revenue and spin-offs which boosted other businesses and the community as a whole.

We understand why civic leaders may choose to emphasize the positive stories involving the local business community. However, they are not doing their community any favours by overlooking the desperation some people they represent are experiencing right now. Yes, it is important to have vision and plan for the future, but do not lose sight of the hardships and challenges facing some people whose short-term needs cannot be addressed by a study or subdivision plan.

Closures, the threat of closure and the prolonged strike at Invista are making it that much tougher for some businesses to stay afloat. Now, more than ever, this community (including elected officials) must do what it can to ensure there is not any further erosion to the economic base. Shopping close to home is one way to help. Here's hoping our civic leaders are spending as much time on ribbon-cuttings and launches as they are on trying to address the short-term needs of business which cannot afford to wait for better days ahead.

WALK THE WALK: Although the current term of municipal councils in Ontario is not that far beyond the half-way point, the next election is only a little more than one year away. With that in mind, we are cautiously optimistic our local elected officials will focus on what needs to be done for constituents during the remainder of this term rather than what needs to be done to get re-elected.

In Prescott, some town officials made a big deal earlier this year about increasing the amount budgeted for sidewalk repairs. Admittedly, this was partly in response to concerns expressed by the community about the state of disrepair of many of the sidewalks. Unfortunately, by the time council approved the 2005 municipal budget, the companies that do the repairs were booked for the season.

We credit Mayor Robert Lawn for acknowledging at a recent committee meeting the situation is the municipality's fault and stressing the need for council to ensure money earmarked for repairs this year will be used on sidewalks next year ­ as long as the town does not run a deficit this year. Other council members echoed the sentiment.

Following through on those words would both serve the interests of the community and, possibly, the re-election bid of certain council members. As long as the much-needed work gets done, we can live with that scenario.

Tim Ruhnke

Smoking doesn't automatically make me "the bad man"

BLAKE'S TAKES by Blake McKim

Last weekend I was visiting a friend in Kingston. During this time, I ducked out of a restaurant for a quick cigarette break. A young bourgeois-type mother was walking down Princess Street holding the hand of a young 4-5 year-old boy came towards me.

As they walked past, I heard the little cherub say "That man's SMOKING!" and his mother replied, under her breath "Yes, he's a bad man."

That mother's offhand comment took me aback. I felt like running after her and saying "Smoking does NOT make me a bad man."

I know smoking now is just about as far from social acceptance as any one activity can be. Rightly so.

I applaud regulations outlawing smoking in bars, restaurants and other public places that aren't in the open air.

I also commend ad campaigns which emphasize the dangers of secondhand smoke, smoking while pregnant and smoking in general. I think it's important for the "youth of tomorrow" to know the full effects and dangers of smoking.

I think that by now nearly everyone, at least those with either a radio or television set, should be fully aware of the dangers of cigarette smoke, both on the smoker themselves and on the people around them.

But at the same time, I do not feel people who choose to smoke should be made to feel like social pariahs every time they abide by the rules and go outside a restaurant, office building, bar or club and smoke in designated areas where the practice is allowed. Unless it's a city which has designated itself totally "smoke free" even on its streets, sidewalks and parks.

I, for one, don't think smokers are just a lot of gauche social misfits who partake in their habit without having respect for those who don't. A number of friends of mine smoke; these include a nurse and a university professor.

I know whenever I smoke, I try to do it away from public doorways. I would also never subject family, friends or my roommate to my secondhand cigarette smoke inside my or their homes.

I also don't believe in smoking in my home, or even in my car. And if ever a young person asks me why I smoke or if they should take it up (believe me, this has happened once), I generally answer "It's a stupid reason, a stupid habit, so just don't do it."

Smoking is a filthy, expensive and hazardous habit, and most smokers know that. But if we abide by the rules, only smoking outdoors in select areas, I don't think us "tobacco addicts" need to be reminded about how evil we are by each non-smoker in the universe.

By the way, that young bourgeois mother who called me "bad" was carrying a bag from the LCBO. It served as a reminder addictions come in all shapes and sizes and don't always involve the insertion of an offensive object into one's mouth.

Work begins on new sewage treatment plant for Prescott

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Oct. 7, 1970

* Construction of Prescott's new water pollution control plant has officially begun. The $646,000 facility will have a capacity of one million gallons per day.

* The Town of Prescott has hired Bob Mills as its new recreation director on a four-month trial basis. The 27-year-old Ottawa native succeeds Dave Stewart, who departed last month. The director receives a salary of $5,400 per year and a car allowance of $75 per month.

* South Grenville District High School is the first secondary school in Canada to use a Datsun in its driver education program. John VanSchie, president of Augusta Motors, the local Datsun dealer, handed over the keys.

Oct. 1, 1975

* The best match-up in last Friday night's wrestling card at the Prescott Community Centre took place behind the scenes in the office of Recreation Director Bob Mills. He and featured performer and self-promoter The Great Antonio exchanged words when the wrestler reportedly refused to produce the agreed-upon portion of gate receipts.

Mills eventually allowed the card to proceed, noting he did not want to let down the 250 fans who had paid the admission fee in good faith and were expecting a wrestling match. However, he added it would be the last time second-rate wrestlers would be booked into the arena.

* The Prescott Public Library has reported a new high in membership. After what was called an unusually good summer, the facility has 3,200 active borrowers. By comparison, the total as of Aug. 1974 was 3,090.

* The South Grenville District High School Giants blanked the TISS Pirates 22-0 in Leeds and Grenville football on a rain-soaked field in Prescott.

Running back Steve Bocsy led the home team with 96 yards on the ground.

Jennifer's story could be told through the tears of her brothers

FROM THE OTHER SIDE by Jeffrey Morris

How can you even begin to describe the sadness? Are there words and metaphors that can express the feelings and do them justice? If there are, I can't dig deep enough into our language to find them. The best I can come up with is that Jennifer Teague's funeral was like the saddest movie or Shakespearean play ever made. But instead of being at a theatre, you were watching it unfold right before your eyes while you became overwhelmed with empathy and feeling every ounce of hurt that shook the slain 18-year-old's family.

Carey Teague stood at the front of Barrhaven's Cedarview Alliance Church Saturday ­ the day before his 20th birthday ­ and struggled to read a poem about his younger sister Jennifer. He did everything he could to keep going before he finally took a step back from the microphone, unable to continue.

He turned his back on the hundreds of people in the church and collapsed into a hug with his 24-year-old brother Kevin.

As the two siblings of Jennifer Teague embraced each other and sobbed their hearts out, a new, more intense level of pain and sorrow filled the church.

Tears streamed down the faces of her family and friends, and of the people in the community whose lives her story has touched. Every pair of eyes in the church sanctuary was swollen and draining tears. They were in the makeshift spillover rooms, and even on the lawn of the church where another hundred or so people stood and listened on loudspeakers. As microscopic as the media coverage on Jennifer's story has been since she went missing Sept. 8, nothing has defined this story more than the image of her brothers embracing. They stood in front of us all, holding each other up. Carey looked as if a bolt of anguish had cracked his body and pierced his soul. His older brother, just as visibly pained, consoled him as best he could. Then Kevin stepped up to speak and got no more than three words out before he, too, was engulfed with pain and sorrow.

How wrenching it was for these two loving brothers to say goodbye to their little sister. For me, the vision of their pain will be the first thing that comes to my mind when I look back and think of Jennifer Teague and her tragic story.

The pain that Carey and Kevin were in tells us so many things about Jennifer Teague and why she touched our hearts. Through the readings and eulogies and memories, we saw every side of Jennifer. We saw her love of children and we learned about her dream of teaching early childhood education. We learned about her love for animals and that she was so excited to have recently gotten her first pet, a kitten named Michael. She had an impish smile and eyes that sparkled and a personality that lit up a room as soon as she walked into it.

But behind these stories and images of Jennifer, we saw a family. It was an incredibly strong family. This was a family that at times fought through their pain to celebrate Jennifer. I don't know how they did it. Nothing you could ever read in a book or see in a movie would tell the story of deep heartbreak like the image of this family on Saturday. But as you think of that image of the brothers embracing, you just knew that together they would get through this, get beyond it, and rise above their sorrow and be even stronger. This family is courage and it is resilience and it is character.

They will grieve, but they will also heal.

Jennifer Teague represents the innocence of youth. Her pictures tell a story of potential, of happiness, and of a future she will never know. There will never be closure on this story, even when the sick waste of a human soul that claimed her life is found and given justice.

The Teagues will move forward. I don't think I could, and you may not think you could either, but they can and they will. For as much as they mourn Jennifer, they celebrate her. Their memories will grasp and cling to the bounce to her step and how she touched every one of them.

Again, I think back of that image of the two brothers, sobbing and embracing. This chapter of the Jennifer Teague story is about sorrow, but in time this will be a story of recovery. The love that this family has will soon be channelled into healing.

Ed Teague said he will look to God to give him the ability to forgive his daughter's killer, and that he believes Jennifer has already done that.

Could you do that? I don't think I could as a father. But that's the kind of fabric and faith that makes this family so incredible.

We were blessed to have Jennifer Teague in this world while we did. We remain fortunate to live among Jennifer Teague's family. They have set standards for love and faith and strength that will forever make our community stronger.

So, to the Teagues, we are your community. We are there for you ­ from Ottawa and Barrhaven to Manotick to Spencerville to Brockville. We stand beside you, and our tears flow with yours. We should be giving you strength, but you have been the ones giving all of us strength and hope.

God bless all of you.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Proposed cuts to BGH are a community concern

The Editor;

I am upset over the proposed budget cuts/proposed changes at Brockville General Hospital. I am concerned how these cuts will affect our community.

Brockville General Hospital's mission statement reads: "To provide quality patient/client centered care in a supportive environment responsive to community needs." Will the hospital be able to fulfill its mission if the proposed cuts come into effect? Should budget cuts have to directly affect patient care? Must budget cuts affect patients' services? Why are you thinking about closing badly-needed beds?

My family members and close friends have been treated for serious illnesses at Brockville General over the past several years. I have been very happy with the professional care and treatment by the excellent staff at the hospital. I have also been very grateful for the services they received as outpatients.

With the proposed budget cuts/proposed changes, will my thinking have to change? Will I have to be worried whether my family will even have a bed available to them if they become ill? Will they have enough nurses to take care of them?

This hospital is the centre of our community, and we rely on our hospital to care for us in times of sickness, health, birth and death. I ask you please take care in the services you cut at BGH. Our community is counting on you.

I also ask if there are other concerned people in our community who are upset over the proposed cuts/proposed changes, take a moment and write a letter to the editor and to our local MPP.

Judy A. Roberts
Prescott

Stick to facts, not attacks

The Editor;

This is in response to Ms. Hale's letter to the editor.

Your husband is a firefighter, and I for one, am proud of the contribution he makes; good on him.

Your criticism of me is unfair and a personal attack.

Perhaps if you attended council meetings, or read the papers regularly, you would know that I acquired my information by calling the fire chiefs of 13 departments in Eastern Ontario over a three-month period. Not once have I ever demeaned our firefighters.

It is this council that is spending without consideration for the voters. I prepared and presented the data to council on three different occasions. We have the largest budget of all I researched, and are considerably smaller populated than most of them. Perhaps you could explain this? Council ignored it.

I am concerned about the ever-increasing amount of spending by this mayor. Since amalgamation, our taxes have steadily been rising. Obviously, higher taxes do not concern you. You are one of the lucky ones.

I never disagreed that honorariums are acceptable, but I do have problems understanding why ours are so much higher than all other departments I researched. Do our taxpayers have more money? I guess some must.

Why do we need 10 vehicles in service when the others max at 7- 2 more new ones were included in this years budget, did you know?

Personal attacks do not accomplish anything. The facts speak for themselves. Seek them out. Speak to the issue; do not shoot the messenger, please.

I try to stay involved in my community by being well-informed, and letting taxpayers know what I learn. I cannot hand-feed those who criticize what I try to do. It is one's responsibility to know what goes on in one's community, and to try and improve things when one can.

If this is wrong, I don't want to be right, 'cause then I would be you.

Pat Grant
Spencerville

SCHOOL SCENE

Algonquin Public School: The first month of school has been a whirlwind of activities including the Terry Fox Challenge and Meet the Teacher Night, as well as a special Literacy Night. An ongoing focus on safety has students reviewing safe play practices as well as special emergency and fire drills.

Under the guidance of educational assistant Nicole Blaszczyk, staff have received training in severe allergy response.

Grades 3, 4 and 5 students are demonstrating daily commitment to training for cross-country meets. Under the leadership of grade 2/3 teacher Aaron Mason, students are building their skills and stamina for two remaining meets having already achieved personal bests in one meet.

At monthly recognition assemblies, we take great pleasure in "catching kids doing great things." Students have been recognized for outstanding demonstration of the Character Counts traits of friendship and caring, as well as achievements in academic subjects, citizenship, sportsmanship and healthy habits.

Boundary Street Public School: Our cross-country runners will have two meets this week on Tuesday and Friday. Senior soccer teams will participate in a tournament at Iroquois Public School on Wednesday.

All students will be taking part in bus evacuation training this week on Wednesday and Thursday. Bus safety, expectations and safe evacuation from the bus will be the focus.

Student council members for this school year were elected based on the content of their poster presentations.

Parents, guardians, and students are invited to attend our open house, "Meet the Creature" night, on Wednesday, Oct. 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. During this evening you will have the opportunity to meet the staff, visit the classrooms and see your student's work. The school council will be having a hot dog BBQ from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. The cake walk will start in the gym at 6 pm.

Central Public School: Mrs. Graham's A & B Kindergarten classes wish everyone a Happy Harvest.

Library is on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Our cross-country team started the season off in Kemptville Sept. 27. The team had great success with some low finishing scores overall.

On Friday, Sept. 30, we competed at Seaway locks. Our top runners of the day in their divisions were Johanne Fee placing 5th in novice girls, Devon Hutchinson, Amelia Carrothers, Sam Muise, Shawna McGuire, Brenden Hurlbert, Lindsay Veenstra and Shane McGuire. Congratulations to all runners; good luck in the championships in Brockville Oct. 7!

On Sept. 29, we held our first Student of the Month assembly. The following were chosen as students of the month in their respective classrooms: Chelsea Collar, Ellie Burtch, Lindsay Render, Alex Milburn, Dillon Hutchison, Kaden Burtch, and Lindsay Hoogwerf. Kim Ditchburn and Tyler Watkins are this month's senior and junior French students of the month respectively. Congratulations.

Have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving holiday!

Maitland and Maynard Public Schools: At both Maynard and Maitland, we have had a strong start to the school year. Both staff and students are feeling positive and enthusiastic and many events are in the planning stages and several have already taken place.

Both open houses were well-attended and parents displayed keen interest for the 2005-2006 school year.

Maynard: A one-kilometre trek was staked out, pledges were collected and the schools started walking. More than $7,000 in pledges have been collected for the Terry Fox Foundation and money continues to trickle in.

We have had an exceptionally strong response to cross-country with three full busloads heading out to meets in Kemptville and Iroquois. Maynard enjoyed much success in terms of points accumulated, but more in the area of personal bests as efforts were made to cheer every runner across the finish line.

The final meet will be held in Brockville this Friday.

Soccer tryouts have been held and both Mr. Pattison and Mrs. Morrison are heading for tournaments on Oct. 13 and Oct. 24 for the mixed junior teams and Oct. 11 and 12 for the senior girls and boys soccer.

In an effort to keep Terry Fox enthusiasm alive and a strong commitment to grow as a school community, all students will be participating in a "Walk of Thanks" to be held at the school on Thursday.

Maitland: Ms. Ananny generated interest in Terry Fox by having students walk on a daily basis. She also had her eye out for potential runners for cross country. A small but happy contingent joined in with Maynard for the meet in Kemptville.

Maitland has had an influx of new picture books for the school library. The display prepared for open house by Library Technician Lynn Heibein was most impressive!

St. Mark Catholic School: Welcome to the month of October! A busy month we've had with all of the back-to-school routines.

This evening, we have our first Catholic school council meeting at St. Mark. The agenda includes election of officers and appointment of a community representative. The meeting is at 7 pm in the school library, and all parents are welcome to attend.

On Friday afternoon, we welcome the One Two Trio! to St. Mark courtesy of the Fort Town Concert Association.

As part of National Fire Prevention Week, we will join in the National Fire Drill, which will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 10 am. All are being encouraged to participate in this national drill. Check you home to ensure you have proper smoke detectors, and change the batteries.

Hot lunch this week is hamburgers.

On behalf of staff and students, we wish you Happy Thanksgiving.

South Edwardsburg Public School: At South Edwardsburg Public School, staff, parents, and volunteers work together to increase our students' life and learning chances.

This week, Mrs. Greenhorn's 3-4 class and Mrs. Kelsey's 5-6 class will be traveling to the Mac Johnson Conservation area to participate in an outdoor education program there. Transportation to events like this is supported by our school council's fundraising efforts.

Our school council meets on Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 6:30.

Our cross-country team, coached by Mr. McElrea and Mrs. Smith, is participating in two meets this week at Grenville Christian College on Tuesday and the championships in Brockville on Friday.

Busy weekends

WALKER HOUSE NEWS by bMARNIE LIPPIATT

We appreciate everyone who helped with the weekend activities ­ even the weather co-operated this year, so the guests could travel comfortably from one studio to the other. Our exhibit of work and those who demonstrated were very well-received. Our latest quilt has been sold. Our kitchen was very busy, particularly over the lunch hour. To all those who cooked, baked, served, prepared sandwiches, set tables and cleaned up: it is really appreciated.

Our artists meet here regularly. If you are interested in learning a new technique, come and join us. Hardanger stitchers will meet on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 7 pm. The rug hookers meet the last Wednesday of the month at 1 pm. The quilters meet each Thursday at 1 pm or at 7 pm. Call 925-5300 for information.

Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge ­ 1st, Andy Britnell; 2nd, Ruth Betsworth; door, Barbara Martin. Fun bridge ­ Glenn Morris. Tuesday night cribbage ­ 1st, Jean Annable; 2nd, Jeannine Marion; 3rd, Hilda Hutton. Wednesday night bridge ­ 1st, Janet White; 2nd, Dora Cook. Thursday night euchre ­ 1st, Bea Hemsley; 2nd, Jessie Shaver; 3rd, Jean McCrady; door, Jane Annable.

Township officials emphasize need for balance in corn tariff issue

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - Mayor Peggy Taylor told Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal council Monday she had been researching the proposed corn tariffs which could have a potentially fatal effect on the township's largest employer, Casco.

Taylor indicated since she heard about the tariff she has spent a lot of her time on the phone researching the situation and talking to fellow mayors and local representatives such as officials in Leeds-Grenville MP Gord Brown's office.

Taylor indicated the potential tariff could be a huge blow to the community which would not only affect the employees of the plant, but the corn growers which the tariff is meant to protect. She noted if the Cardinal plant closed it would provide producers will less places to sell their product.

The company has indicated the future of the Cardinal plant might be at risk if the federal government implements the tariff on American corn.

"It won't help the area if a worst case scenario comes about," Taylor told council in her report. "We need to be prepared if it comes about and know how the municipality will be affected so we can make sure our voices are heard. This isn't something we can put together at the last second."

Taylor indicated she would like to put together a shared grievance with London and Port Colborne, which house Casco's two other Canadian plants, to provide a united front if the municipalities agreed.

"I want to ask for council's support on this to work with other parties to get the municipality's views out there and heard," said Taylor. "We have corn producers here as well as the plant and we need to find a balance. I don't want to work on this any further without the approval of council."

Council was careful to advise to continue actions citing the many different vested interests in the township.

"We do have a number of corn producers in the township as well as Casco," said Ward Three Councillor Frank Noccey. "We don't want to also forget about some of the little guys in this."

Deputy Mayor Bill Sloan added, "Right now for some of the producers the price they're getting is not even worth growing it. We need a nice balance."

Members of council approved the mayor proceeding with her fact-finding. She indicated she would update council on the matter at the next regular council meeting Oct. 17.

Taylor and township Treasurer Russell Trivett will be attending a fact-finding meeting in Ottawa with Gord Brown's office Thursday to find out more on the situation and its potential impact on the municipality.

"We grow corn so we are aware of the producers," said Taylor, "but we want more information and a good base of information on where everyone is coming from and the facts of the situation. Everything is going to be a learning process for ourselves and Mr. Brown's office as well."

Connect Youth joins forces with Optimists

By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer

SPENCERVILLE - The "friend of youth" Spencerville and District Optimist Club got even friendlier last Wednesday night with the induction of Connect Youth from South Grenville District High School into its ranks.

Optimist Club president Julia Couture spoke prior to the organization's induction into the service club at last Wednesday night's meeting. She stated Connect Youth had spoken to the club recently at a past meeting. "(They) sounded like a good group to work with," she explained

Couture added "Our program deals strictly with youth, (with the) number of programs we offer... It's nice to know there are more contacts who know where the kids are, the different programs (to offer),"

Norie Spence, a South Grenville counsellor who works with Connect Youth, explained the role of the organization in the community. She highlighted "gaps in services" to young people in the area, particularly in more rural areas, and the organization tries to connect youth to the services they need which are available in the community.

"(We) hook up children with where they need to go," Spence added.

She also said "We are excited about teaming, it will mutually benefit both organizations."

Spence also stated a goal of Connect Youth currently is to get more young men to buy into the program. "We need to get boys to buy into the program (so that) they don't present anger in the community."

John Kingsbury, a teacher from South Grenville who also works with the program, stated Connect Youth may only reach a small number of students at the school who are suffering with depression or other issues. "Young people without optimism are (who) we, as a team, can reach."

Couture highlighted another benefit of a partnership with Connect Youth as being that, when the club started about 15 years ago, the children of members would give ideas of events the club could hold. However, with those children growing up, the new members can bring an additional perspective of events and programs to offer.

"They do great work; we're glad to have them aboard," she added.

Connect Youth began in June 2001.

Council opts for flat roof at township hall

SPENCERVILLE - The Edwardsburgh/Cardinal municipal office building will have a flat roof instead of one with trusses, council decided Monday's in Spencerville.

Council approved a flat roof for the municipal office from DL Construction at a cost of $8,475 plus GST to be completed before the winter, instead of a sloped roof which was earlier approved at a cost of nearly $40,000.

Ward Three Councillor and parks/recreation & facilities committee chairperson Frank Noccey indicated the township was unable to attain a contractor with enough time to complete a trussed roof being the main reason for the change to a flat roof.

Edwardsburgh/Cardinal CAO Stephen McDonald indicated another reason for the change being a concern water would flow off the trussed roof onto Spencerville United Church property and cause problems.

Despite the approval, Ward Two Councillor Bill Sloan indicated he wasn't in favour of the decision.

"I really don't like a flat roof myself," indicated Sloan. "It could cost us more in the long run. In another six years we might have to pay $60,000 or $80,000 instead of $40,000 right now."

The price of the roof from DL Construction does not include the cost to replace any rotted wood which wouldn't be noticeable until the project starts. The flat roof comes with a five-year warranty.

Stamp club to meet

CARDINAL - The monthly meeting of the Cardinal Stamp Club will take place next Wednesday, Oct. 12 at 7 pm at the Cardinal branch of the Edwardsburgh/ Cardinal Public Library. Adults and children are welcome.

The club will also add coin collecting to the meetings if there is enough interest. For more information, contact John Dugan at 657-1081.

Municipality receives several applications for CAO/clerk job

SPENCERVILLE - Township council indicated Monday six applications had been received for the CAO/clerk position in Edwardsburgh/Cardinal.

Council indicated a few more applications had come in since the last regular council meeting Sept. 19, and the deadline is Oct. 6.

Mayor Peggy Taylor reiterated her hopes to get the position filled as soon as possible to help make a smooth transition.

The position will become vacant on Oct. 11 when current CAO/Clerk Stephen McDonald assumes a similar role with the Township of South Dundas.

Council approves purchase of chassis

SPENCERVILLE - Township council agreed to accept a tender for a new truck chassis for the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Fire Department.

Council accepted the low tender of $82,410 from Kemptville Truck Centre for a 2006 International truck, over a bid from Kenworth (which did not meet specifications) at $87,700 and a bid from Peterbilt for $94,700.

Council indicated the total cost to the township would only be $32,410, since a rebate of $50,000 to improve the township's fire department was received from the province earlier in the year.

The item was included in the township's 2005 budget.

Jr. B Rangers suffer first loss of season against Westport

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

CARDINAL - The South Grenville Jr. B Rangers had a tough week, managing to pull out two points from a late loss to Westport Friday and an ugly win over Athens on Saturday.

Rangers coach Rod Simmons wasn't happy with the way the weekend went, especially his team's effort Saturday against the Athens Aeros.

"Against Westport it was a solid effort, but we just turned the puck over inside our blue line late and a quick shot took us off guard and let them take the lead," explained Simmons. "We expect games like that all year against Westport. They have 16 returning players and a solid program. Every team is improving and we need to improve."

Simmons indicated his team was lacking something following the loss.

"Against Athens we just got off to a late start in a penalty riddled game," Simmons told The Journal. "There were 43 penalties in the game and I don't think it was our best effort, even though we did get a win out of it. We saw a lot of things we need to work on and never to take a team lightly. The coaches realize the players are young people and we just need to work on positives and learn from our mistakes."

On Saturday, South Grenville took some lumps early on as the Athens Aeros put up an aggressive front to score a pair of goals early in the first period to take a 2-0 lead. Within the first five minutes of the game, the officials let the game get out of hand after Athens players repeatedly ran Rangers goaltender Brad Simmons, leaving his teammates to come to his aid, which resulted in a slew of penalties and bad blood brewing early on.

Late in the first period, South Grenville got back into the game to score a pair of goals to take a 2-2 draw into the second period. Peter Veltkamp and Lawrence each scored for South Grenville, while Andy Orsini and Steve Prosser added assists.

The Rangers would battle back and start showing some heart in pulling out five second period goals compared to one from Athens. South Grenville goals came from Lawrence, Orsini, Derek Rupert, Brad Crook and Tim Thomas. Lawrence, Thomas, Julien Francis, Ryan Sullivan, Rupert, Orsini and Steve LeDuc added assists.

South Grenville would add three more goals in the third, while Athens would add a pair to give the Rangers a 10-6 win over the Aeros. Lawrence would net his third goal of the game early in the third period to complete the hat trick, while Crook and Chris Clark also scored. LeDuc, Sullivan, Clark, Veltkamp and Crook added assists.

On Friday, South Grenville travelled to Westport and fell victim to a late Scott Morrison goal for its first loss of the season.

The Rangers trailed early but battled back to tie the game in the second period, before taking a 3-2 lead early into the final frame.

Westport managed to come back to score two unanswered goals including the winner with less than five minutes in the game to hand the Rangers the loss.

Rupert, LeDuc and Thomas scored for South Grenville, while Chad Gillisie (2), Francis (2) and LeDuc added helpers.

The Rangers will play host to its arch-rivals, the Brockville Tikis, Saturday at 7:15 pm at the Cardinal and District Community Centre. South Grenville travels to Gananoque Sunday to take on the Islanders at 7:45 pm.

Rangers Wrap-up: The winner of Saturday's 50-50 draw for $308 was Darlene Noonan of Athens. Rangers forward Christian Long, who is currently living in Domville, is waiting
for a second appeal to be approved before he can get into the line-up; his brother Charles has already been cleared and is playing for the Brockville Braves Jr. A. South Grenville overage forward Adam Lawrence got into the first fight of his Jr. B hockey career in Saturday's victory over Athens. The Rangers' fundraising golf tournament Sunday was an enjoyable day with a full field having fun and showing their support for the team.

South Grenville Jr. B Rangers individual statistics

(as of Oct. 3, 2005)

Skaters

Player GP G A Pts.

Derek Rupert 6 5 10 15

Tim Thomas 6 7 6 13

Adam Lawrence 6 6 7 13

Andy Orsini 6 6 7 13

Julien Francis 6 2 11 13

Steve LeDuc 6 3 8 11

Peter Veltkamp 6 3 4 7

Chad Gillisie 6 2 5 7

Chris Clark 6 4 2 6

Brad Crook 6 2 3 5

Nathaniel Ashley 2 1 2 3

Ryan Sullivan 3 0 3 3

Nick Maggio 3 2 0 2

James Craig 6 2 0 2

Chris Crook 6 1 1 2

Jason Whalen 4 1 1 2

Dustin Swan 5 0 2 2

Vince Francica 6 0 2 2

Mike Armstrong 3 0 1 1

Matt Hayes 4 0 1 1

Steve Prosser 2 0 1 1

Andy Fortier 3 0 0 0

Christian Long 0 0 0 0

Goaltenders

Player GP Min. GA GAA

David LaBaff (2-1-0-0) 3 180 16 5.33

Brad Simmons (3-0-0-0) 3 180 8 2.67

Elite Soccer Academy hands out monthly honours after September soccer tourney

PRESCOTT - The Elite Soccer Academy held its monthly soccer tournament on Sept. 27-28 in Prescott.

The academy runs skill sessions and drills with one tournament each month.

Players of the month were Connor Ladouceur in the Portugal Division, Alex Modler in the Italia Division, Liam Bush in the Germany Division and Zach Shankar in the England Divsion.

Scores from the event are:

Tuesday, Sept. 27

Portugal Division

Porto 4

Jacob Turcotte (4)

Benefica 3

Connor Ladouceur (3)

Italia Division

Juventus 3

Alex Ryan (2), Alex Modler

Inter 0

No goal scorers

Roma 3

Eoin Carr (2), Kyrstn
Burnie

Inter 0

No goal scorers

Roma 2

Eoin Carr, Natacha Carr

Juventus 0

No goal scorers

Scotland Division

Rangers 3

Alec Hussey, Jessica Gillis, Alyssa Jensen

Hearts 0

No goal scorers

Celtic 3

Samantha Kinsella (2), Kris Jackson

Hearts 3

Tommy Carr (2), Amar Hajari

Rangers 2

Alec Hussey (2)

Celtic 0

No goal scorers

Wednesday, Sept. 28

Portugal Divsion

Boavista 6

Sam Fahrngruber (6)

Sporting 0

No goal scorers

Sporting 1

Sam Fahrngruber

Braga 1

Connor Ladouceur

Braga 2

Connor Ladouceur, Thomas Ruigrok

Boavista 1

Peyton Seward

Germany Division

Bayern 4

Liam Bush (4)

Hamburg 0

No goal scorers

Hamburg 3

Ben Ross (2), Nicholas Asbreuk

Hertha 2

Brayden Noyes, Brendan Bradley

Bayern 2

Devin Burnside, Liam Bush

Hertha 1

Brayden Noyes

England Division

Manchester United 2

Miranda Burton, Mackenzie Carr

Chelsea 2

John Jackson, Tommy Carr

Arsenal 4

Zach Shankar (3), Curtis Ross

Chelsea 1

John Jackson

Manchester United 1

Alec Hussey

Arsenal 1

Zach Shankar

Read future editions of The Prescott Journal for more soccer coverage from the monthly Elite Soccer Academy Tournaments.

Sr. Giants basketball teams defeats RDHS

By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants senior girls basketball team is 1-1 on the season after a pair of hard played games in the opening week of the Leeds and Grenville Secondary School Athletic Association (LGSSAA) regular season play.

Giants coach Joe Latham indicated his team is playing well but is still making some mistakes which are proving costly especially for a team with such a short bench.

"Against Rideau we played well at times, but we found out that no matter how good you play you can't keep up the intensity with only seven players on the team," Latham told The Journal. "That same thing hurt us against North Grenville, where we shot well and had a nice lead we just couldn't maintain. It was a few simple mistakes that cost us."

On Tuesday, Sept. 27, the Giants got off to a quick start to the game and were able to hold off Rideau late to score a 45-37 victory over the Lions. South Grenville got out of the gates slowly taking a two point lead into the second quarter, but was able to extend the lead to 27-16 by the half.

Giants point guard Sam Joudoin led the charge for South Grenville with 12 points and seven steals, while Sara Watt added 11 points, three steals and three rebounds. Jaime Grimes scored eight in the win, while Karie Neddo and Carrie Calhoun added six points apiece.

On Thursday, the Giants got off to an early lead, but ended up running out of steam in the fourth quarter to drop a tough 48-44 decision to the North Grenville Knights. The Giants took a four-point lead in the first quarter but were even for the remainder of the game until a late Knights surge was able to upend the Giants. Joudoin had 16 points and four steals for South Grenville, followed by Grimes and Calhoun with eight points apiece. Neddo and Chelsea Roode each had five points, with Watt scoring four.

On the weekend, a hungry Giants team put together a strong effort to post a 3-0 record at its tournament Saturday in Prescott.

The Giants opened up play with a 50-31 defeat of Perth, before cruising through their final two games against Tagwi 68-13 and Arnprior 52-28 to post a perfect 3-0 record on the day.

Against Perth, Sara Watt led the Giants with 17 points, followed by Calhoun with 11 points.

Grimes netted 26 points against Tagwi, followed by Roode and Joudoin with nine, Watt with eight and junior call-up Jessica Rupert adding six.

Against Arnprior, South Grenville got 14 points from Grimes to lead the attack, followed by Neddo with 11 points and Roode with seven.

South Grenville has the week off in LGSSAA play, but will continue its regular season schedule Thursday, Oct. 13 when the Giants travel to Athens to take on the Warriors. The Giants will then host the Grenville Christian College Lions on Tuesday, Oct. 18. Both Giants games start at approximately 4:30 pm.

SGDHS junior hoops team starts season with perfect 2-0 mark

PRESCOTT - The South Grenville Giants junior girls basketball team is on a roll after scoring a pair of home victories to start the season with a perfect 2-0 record.

Giants coach Ken Lynch is happy with his team's effort to start the year, but he indicated there is still room to improve.

"We're still making a lot of Grade 9 mistakes, because we're a young team," explained Lynch. "We need to work on our spacing to give Jessica (Rupert) some room out there to operate. Jessica is our bread and butter out there, she needs to score, because when she scores other girls are left open and can score as well. We played some strong defence and Tannis (Olsen) has started stepping things up and hit some clutch free throws for us against North Grenville."

The Giants started the season on a high note last Tuesday with a 32-25 decision over the Rideau Lions in Prescott. The Giants got a monster game from Jessica Rupert to lead the way, as she finished 22 points, 12 rebounds, eight steals and three blocks. Rupert dominated play both inside and out, leading the team in rebounding and falling two steals short of a triple-double. Carley Sullivan added six points and six rebounds in the Giants win.

On Thursday, South Grenville continued its strong play on its way to pulling out a 44-37 victory over the North Grenville Knights in Prescott. The Giants started off the game slowly trailing by one at the half, but South Grenville came alive in the second half to take a 28-18 lead into the fourth quarter. Rupert led the Giants with 15 points, eight rebounds and six steals in the game, followed by Olsen scoring 13 points. Sullivan had five points.

The Giants have an off-week, but resume regular season play Thursday, Oct. 13 when South Grenville travels to Athens to take on the Warriors. The Giants also play the Grenville Christian College Lions Tuesday, Oct. 18 in Prescott. Both games are scheduled to start at approximately 3 pm.

Brockville Blazers atom hoops team holding tryouts Sunday

BROCKVILLE - The Brockville Blazers atom rep basketball team will be holding its final try-out session this Tuesday, Oct. 11 from 6 pm until 7:30 pm at St. Mary Catholic School in Brockville.

The camp is open to all girl players who are between the ages of 9 and 11 as of Jan. 1, 2006.

The team is a regionally-based team which takes in players from around the whole area.

For more information on the try-out contact Al Peters at 348-7189 or Jeff Bates at 348-1451.

Mens and co-ed indoor soccer registration is tonight (Oct. 5)

PRESCOTT - The men's and co-ed indoor soccer league will be holding registration tonight (Wednesday, Oct. 5) from 6 pm until 9 pm at Deko's place in Brockville.

Those requiring directions should call 345-3758.

Players from last year can secure their places by registering, or forfeit their position to newly registered players.

Protected players must also register to remain protected.

Those who do not pay their registration
fees by the start date will forfeit their positions.

Co-ed games begin Oct. 19 at South Grenville District High School, while the men's league begins Oct. 23 at Grenville Christian College.

The league is open to teenagers as long as parents approve of their participation.

Sunday morning Kinsmen hockey starts on Oct. 16 in Prescott

PRESCOTT - The Prescott Kinsmen Club has Sunday morning ice times from 11 am until noon starting Oct. 16.

The club is looking for anyone above the age of 18 who is interested in playing pick-up hockey.

Body contact and slapshots are not allowed during the pick-up games. Players wishing
to take part are required to bring their own stick, skates, shin/knee guards, elbow pads, gloves and helmet, with all other equipment optional.

There are a total of 18 ice times this year for the club running until Dec. 4.

There are three permanent goaltenders for the games with Richard Holmes playing each week and Rob Adams and Frank Brooks alternating. Any goaltenders interested in coming out should contact Art Hitsman.

A copy of the schedule can be obtained by contacting Hitsman or stopping by during the ice time each Sunday.

Hardcopies of the schedule will be available in dressing room 1 and 4 from 9 until 9:30 am and from noon until 12:30 am.

For more information on the ice times or taking part in the hockey contact Hitsman at home at 925-1315, at work at (613) 734-8486 or on his cell phone at 349-1315.