Breakthrough sought at Invista
Management, union meet with mediator; strike began June
4
MAITLAND There has been plenty of activity involving
Invista early this week.
As The Journal went to press Tuesday, there was still
no official word on whether or not there had been a breakthrough
in the ongoing labour dispute at Invista Canada's Maitland Site.
The company confirmed union and management officials agreed
to meet with a mediator (at the union's request) Tuesday afternoon
to address the labour impasse that is well into its fifth month.
The sole purpose of the meeting is for the union and management
to sign a memorandum of settlement, Invista stated in a release
Tuesday.
The release also indicated the company would not comment further
at this time out of respect for the process.
Local 28-0 of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers
(CEP) Union, which represents about 350 workers at the Maitland
site, went on strike June 4.
The company had reportedly given the union until yesterday
to accept the terms outlined in a tentative deal which was reached
Sept. 12 but was subsequently voted down by more than 80 per
cent of the membership. In the event the deal remained a no-go,
some of its conditions would reportedly have been subject to
reconsideration by Invista.
The union was preparing to hold a second ratification vote
on last month's proposal yesterday. However, that plan was reportedly
scrapped because of the meeting between Invista and the union.
In a full-page message that appeared as an advertisement in
last week's Journal, Maitland Site Manager Joe Hendriks
indicated a prolonged strike could result in Invista re-evaluating
its decision to restart production of adipic acid.
"Be assured that we have done all we can to settle on
a sound basis that will help increase our site's chances for
long-term viability and success," Hendriks stated in the
message.
He went on to note "The plant continues to operate safely
and efficiently because of the hard work and dedication of our
staff employees. Their efforts have been critical in keeping
the plant open and helping increase the chances that jobs can
be available for unionized employees once a settlement is achieved."
In this week's Journal, the company has placed an ad
seeking candidates for several types of unionized positions (including
operating engineers, welders, mechanics and millwrights, lab
analysts and general labourers) at the Maitland site.
THIS WEEK
Time to fall back
Remember to set clocks and timepieces back one hour this weekend
as Eastern Standard Time returns early Sunday morning.
It is also as good a time as any to test smoke alarms and
change their batteries.
Monthly dinner served today at Seaway church
PRESCOTT This month's Master's Hands community supper
will be served today (Wednesday) from 5 to 6:15 pm at Seaway
Christian Church on Churchill Road.
There is no admission fee. The dinner for the less fortunate
is open to everyone.
Parish centre is bazaar place to be Saturday
PRESCOTT A bazaar will be held this Saturday, Oct. 29
from 10 am to 2 pm at St. Mark's Parish Centre on Edward Street.
In addition to Christmas gift items, there will be candy,
baked goods and other creations on sale. There will also be something
for the kids as well as a tea room and a touch 'n' take table.
Friendship Hall hosts roast beef dinner
PRESCOTT A roast beef dinner will be held this Saturday,
Oct. 29 at Friendship Hall on Henry Street West.
Dinner will be served at 4:30 and 6 pm. Take-out and delivery
orders are available. For tickets, call 925-4784, 925-4957 or
925-4268. There is no guarantee of tickets at the door.
Friendship Hall is the home of the local Odd Fellows and Rebekahs.
Hear folk at St. Paul's
PRESCOTT St. Paul's United Church will host a folk concert
on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 7 pm.
In addition to the St. Paul's folk choir, the event will feature
special guests Ole Friends. There is no admission fee, but there
will be a free-will offering. Light refreshments will be served.
Township office expansion plan modified in cost-cutting move
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
MAYNARD They want a Cadillac, but they are prepared
to settle for a Buick. That was the sentiment being expressed
by some members of Augusta council Monday afternoon during a
discussion on the cost of expanding the municipal office building
in Maynard.
In response to concerns the addition could cost up to $400,000
as opposed to the budgeted amount of well under $300,000, the
proposal for the addition has been adjusted. Deputy Reeve Bill
Buckler said the changes would bring the estimated cost closer
to $280,000, a figure which seemed to be within the comfort level
of all five council members.
One major change is switching from a sloped roof to a flat
one. In another move, a proposed council room and general office
adjacent to the council chamber would instead be used for storage.
Reeve John McCrea opened the meeting by stating the township
needs more office space to allow better service to the public.
He also noted the municipality has a duty to have proper storage
of documents.
However, McCrea went on to say he would have trouble proceeding
with the expansion at the budgeted amount as long as the strike
at Invista Maitland continues.
"I must withhold my support until that is resolved,"
the reeve stated.
Later in the meeting, McCrea said he would be prepared to
support proceeding if the ongoing labour dispute were to be settled.
When asked if he is concerned about the possibility of Invista
closing its Maitland site, the reeve said he could not dismiss
that possibility. But McCrea emphasized adding to the existing
municipal building is a good idea.
Buckler said the township has done "a lot of legwork"
on the building proposal, and he expressed concerns about the
negative effects of delaying the project. "The more you
wait, the more expensive this building is going to cost us,"
he said.
Councillor Carol Stephenson said she has no problem accepting
the revised proposal which includes the flat roof. Stephenson
and other township officials noted the cramped conditions facing
council and other people who were in the council chamber for
Monday's meeting.
Councillor John Fischl agreed there is a need for a new building,
but he voiced concerns about the higher cost estimate and how
he had not been told about the revised plan for the building.
However, Fischl said later he "might be able to live with"
the cost estimate of $280,000.
Councillor Pauline Cyr also reiterated her concerns about
spending a lot of money on what she agreed was a necessary project.
She indicated support for spending in the range of $235,000 to
$250,000.
Until the project is put out to tender, township officials
will not know how much the revised proposal would cost. The question
could be put to council at one of its meetings next month.
As for public input on the proposed expansion, there were
not many visits to township hall last week to review the plans.
Van Hoek honoured as a Dreamer & Doer
By David Dickenson, Journal Staff Writer
ALGONQUIN - The Augusta Public Library has named the latest
addition to its Dreamers and Doers Wall.
Onne Van Hoek, who has made a significant contribution to
the community with his Augusta Motorsport Park events such as
Wheel's 'A' Churnin' Mud & Thunder Competition and the Augusta
Summer Jam, was honoured for his vision at a ceremony held last
Tuesday night at the library in Augusta. Van Hoek also donates
a portion of the proceeds from each event to the Children's Hospital
of Eastern Ontario and the Civitan Club.
Former Augusta Reeve George Vail introduced Van Hoek and complimented
his hard work and determination, which has helped to increase
the visibility of Augusta Township, increase tourism and generate
employment while building a successful business.
Van Hoek said he was surprised to hear he had received the
award and felt very honoured.
"I didn't expect this," Van Hoek told The Journal.
"There's a lot of work that gets put into the projects;
a lot of work people don't see. I do stuff for people because
I like to see people have fun and enjoy themselves. We run good
family events where there's no drinking, but people still have
a lot of fun."
Van Hoek indicated his Wheel's 'A' Churnin' events have become
the first and last events of the mud drag circuit and now draws
an average of 3,500 spectators for each two-day event. The event
is held twice a year in the township.
"All of this gets off the ground because of a lot of
hard work and help," said Van Hoek. "Gary and Sandra
Spero, Dwayne Noonan, Jennifer Holder and Herbie Brown are some
of the people who have done a lot to help get the events off
the ground. We never realized they would get as big as they did,
but now they pretty much take care of themselves."
In the first year for his three-day Augusta Summer Jam, which
featured many Canadian music artists, Van Hoek indicated the
event was not the success he hoped it would be, but he added
neither were many other of the successful festivals when they
first started.
"We're hoping to run the event again next year,"
said Van Hoek, "but it was something we lost on this year.
I have talked to the people with the Havelock Country Music festival
and they were a failure for six years when they started it up,
and look at them now."
A life-long resident of Augusta Township, Van Hoek owns and
operates Augusta Towing on Dixon Road and was also recognized
in April 2005 for his heroic actions following a car crash in
which he helped save a person's life in Dec. 2002.
Sandra Robertson receives historical society's award of merit
By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - At the Grenville County Historical Society annual
dinner held last Wednesday evening at Colonel's Inn, Sandra Robertson
was presented the society's annual award of merit.
"One of the most gratifying things the Grenville County
Historical Society does each year is to recognize someone who
has made a significant contribution towards preserving and promoting
the history of Grenville," stated society President Sandra
Shouldice. "No one promotes (the Grenville area) quite the
same as this year's award recipient."
Shouldice added Robertson not only promotes the area through
her work at the Ontario Travel Information Centre, but also through
her many other activities through the historical society. "It
is during her off hours when she really works in earnest,"
opined Shouldice.
She added Robertson has been a tireless worker with the society,
and has spearheaded many initiatives, including the indexing
of minutes from Edwardsburgh Council, instigating the millennium
park project at the base of Highway 16 in Johnstown, and, most
recently, completing a book featuring the history of the North
Channel Cemetery near Johnstown.
"She has produced a significant addition to the history
(of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal) which will stand the test of time,"
added Shouldice.
After receiving the award, an emotional Robertson stated "I
really want to thank each and every one of you, I'm honoured
and humbled to get it (award of merit)."
Robertson also thanked the historical society for publishing
her book The North Channel Cemetery: Let the Stones Speak.
"I'm proud to tell a bit of the story (of the cemetery),"
said Robertson. "I wish I could tell more."
Following the ceremony, Robertson stated she is quite honoured
to get the award of merit. "It's really thanks to the historical
society the book was published," she said. "They supported
me every step of the way."
Robertson also offered praise to Bonnie Gaylord, who assisted
with editing the text, as well as to her dog Angus.
The annual dinner also featured guest speaker Marc Tessier
who shared tidbits about the past 150 years of the Spencerville
Fair, and traced the evolution of the annual fall exhibition
from its inception in 1855 to the present day.
Next concert set for Nov. 4
PRESCOTT The Fort Town Concert Association will present
Trumpet and Organ on Friday, Nov. 4 at St. Andrew's Presbyterian
Church.
The concert, the second of the 2005-2006 season, will feature
Stéphane Beaulac on trumpet and Vincent Boucher on organ.
"The dazzling tone and brilliant virtuosity of the trumpet
mesh with the virtually endless orchestral possibilities of the
organ in this musical gateway into the rich repertoires of England,
France, Italy and Germany," a release states.
The concert starts at 8 pm. There is a special ticket price
for students. Children under the age of 12 will be admitted free
of charge.
The Nov. 4 concert is sponsored by Geoffrey and Judith Caldwell.
For more information, call 925-5050.
The Fort Town Concert Association works in co-operation with
Jeunesses Musicales of Canada, an organization that promotes
young musicians and composers and provides fine arts performances
to people of all ages.
Shakespeare donation is confirmed by Chamber
JOHNSTOWN The Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce
has confirmed an additional donation of $2,000 to the St. Lawrence
Shakespeare Festival.
In June, Chamber of Commerce directors approved a contribution
of $2,000 and agreed to consider a second donation in the same
amount this fall. The directors voted at their monthly lunch
meeting to proceed with the additional money.
Although some directors indicated they would like to see information
on how this year's festival in Prescott fared financially, no
one voted against donating the other $2,000.
Tories to host policy meeting on Saturday
BROCKVILLE The policy development committee of the Leeds-Grenville
Progressive Conservative Association will host a public meeting
this Saturday, Oct. 29 at the Royal Brock hotel.
A complimentary continental breakfast will be served at 8:30
am, followed by opening remarks from Leeds-Grenville MPP Bob
Runciman.
The morning meeting will focus on five policy areas: economic
development/jobs; health-care; energy and environment; agriculture
and rural development; and justice and community safety.
Input is being sought to help the provincial party develop
its 2007 provincial election platform. "This is an excellent
opportunity for folks who don't necessarily have a political
affiliation to have a say in the development of a political party's
policies," stated committee chair, Dr. John Arnott.
"This is grassroots policy-making at its best."
MPAC outlines options to property owners
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT The new assessment figures appear to be drawing
the same criticism as the old ones.
About 25 people attended an information meeting hosted by
the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) last Wednesday
night at town hall in Prescott. Beverley Disney and Harold Bryan
of the MPAC office in Brockville outlined the property assessment
system and fielded questions from the floor.
Reassessment notices were distributed earlier this month.
The amount a property will be taxed in 2006 will be based on
its current value assessment as of Jan. 1, 2005.
In a zone of Eastern Ontario which extends from Cornwall to
Pembroke, residential values increased by an average of 12.88
per cent. Multi-residential properties increased by just under
27 per cent.
In the Town of Prescott, residential assessment increased
by 11.26 per cent. Multi-residential went up by 9.14 per cent,
and commercial rose 5.38 per cent. Industrial assessment decreased
by more than 12 per cent.
MPAC noted there were 127 house sales and 10 condominium sales
in Prescott. The houses averaged $114,300; their current value
assessment averaged $110,900. The average sale price for the
137 properties was about $113,000; their average current assessed
value was $109,000.
Real estate prices experienced "as healthy increase"
in an active market, according to MPAC.
Bryan added the presence of Highway 416 and interest from
homebuyers in the Ottawa area has also served to drive up property
prices. Although he said he understands that point, one man at
the meeting indicated that does not make the assessment situation
fair for the people who already live here and who are coping
with local job losses and a flat economy.
In the 1980s, assessment figures were revised every four years.
From now on, the figures are to be updated on an annual basis.
Several members of the audience noted they had received what
they believe are significant increases to their assessed values.
MPAC's response is for the owner to consider whether or not he
or she could have sold the property on Jan. 1, 2005 for the assessed
value.
Property owners who disagree with their assessment have options.
They can contact MPAC to confirm information and ask questions.
Owners can also submit a request for reconsideration, which
must be filed by the end of Dec. 2006. MPAC will review the assessed
value for accuracy and make adjustments of an error has occurred.
An appeal to the assessment review board, an independent tribunal,
will cost $75 for a house or farm and $150 for a commercial or
industrial property. Appeals must be filed by March 31, 2006.
In an appeal, the property owner will be asked to attend a hearing
to support his or her case.
Disney said it might be comforting for local residents to
know there are staff at the Brockville office who have knowledge
of local properties. Bryan added MPAC strives for accuracy and
makes every effort "...to correct errors as soon as possible."
He recommended property owners go to MPAC's Web site (www.mpac.ca).
He said there is "a tremendous amount of information"
which includes a detailed listing of the owner's residential
property and other properties used as comparables.
Disney indicated the property owner must provide relevant
facts to support his or her claim the assessed value is incorrect.
"To say it's simply too high doesn't cut it," she said.
As expected, some of the people who attended the information
meeting voiced concerns about their own situations and the assessment
system as a whole. When asked about how many times a property
owner's request to have an assessed value reviewed has actually
resulted in change, Bryan noted there were 71 requests for reconsideration
(out of about 1,700 properties) in Prescott and 39 review board
appeals in 2004. These resulted in reductions totalling just
$114,000.
"It would appear the accuracy of our evaluation is pretty
good," Bryan said.
When it was pointed out by an audience member Ontario's ombudsman
has launched an investigation into the assessment system and
whether or not it is "fair and transparent," Bryan
said "they can do as they wish."
MPAC is a not-for-profit organization funded my municipalities
in Ontario. The town pays about $43,000 a year to MPAC, according
to Prescott Treasurer/Deputy CAO Laurie Kirkby.
Town opts to develop first 10 residential lots
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT Town officials are now considering a different
approach to developing residential lots in the northeast end
of the municipality.
Following a closed-door session Monday night, Prescott's planning
and development committee approved a motion directing staff to
proceed with a business plan for phase one of the subdivision.
Councillor and committee chair Chuck Street told The Journal
after the meeting negotiations with Fieldstone, the Ottawa-based
company picked by the town to serve as developer, had failed
to produce an agreement. Rather than pursue other companies that
had expressed an interest, the town will now develop 10 lots
at the end of Massie Drive.
"This was not our first choice, that's for sure, said
Street, "but we want to keep the momentum going."
There was one other bidder for the developer's job, which
had been awarded earlier this fall. A third bid was withdrawn.
Town council has yet to adopt the committee's recommendation,
but that is viewed as a formality. Council's next regular meeting
will take place Nov. 7.
Street acknowledged the new approach had arisen in the past.
"Some of us were looking at proceeding in this direction
right from the start," he said.
Making the switch does not necessarily mean there will be
a longer wait for the first set of lots to be developed, according
to Street. It is expected there will be some construction this
winter.
The town has a list of individuals who have expressed an interest
in purchasing building lots.
A news release issued by the town Tuesday morning states the
business plan will include surveying, hiring a real estate agent
and preparing a set of covenants to govern the building of the
homes (including design standards and maximum time limits for
construction).
Cash stolen from unlocked vehicle during the night
PRESCOTT Grenville County OPP officers responded to
53 calls for service in the Prescott patrol zone last week.
A large amount of cash was taken from an unlocked vehicle
parked in a laneway off Mackenzie Road. The theft, which was
reported last Wednesday, is believed to have taken place overnight.
Police did not indicate exactly how much money was stolen.
The investigating officer is Constable Deboer.
Constable Shawn Steinburg is investigating a case of mischief
involving a parked van. The 1998 Plymouth was parked on King
Street between Edward and Centre streets.
It is believed the left rear quarter panel of the van sustained
three scratches more than two feet in length sometime between
about 10 and 11 am. As of Monday, there were no witnesses or
suspects.
Last Monday at about 11 am, Constable Steinburg began to investigate
damage to the phone booth on Edward Street just north of King.
The phone had not been damaged, but all the windows had been
smashed. Bell Canada was notified; no damage estimate was available.
Anyone with information on these or any other occurrences
in the Prescott area 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.
Augusta information presented to township council
MAYNARD Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC)
officials made a presentation to Augusta council Monday afternoon.
Property taxes in 2006 will be based on current value assessments
as of Jan. 1, 2005. Reassessment notices were distributed earlier
this month.
In Augusta, residential assessment increased by 11.83 per
cent. Farming was up by more than 20 per cent, while commercial
assessment increased by 7.56 per cent.
In all, the revised assessment took into account 178 residential
property sales. The average sale price was about $165,000. The
average price for 11 waterfront property sales was $338,000.
Bev Disney and Harold Bryan of MPAC noted the options available
to property owners who do not agree with their assessment. Among
the options are calling the MPAC office in Brockville (342-3296)
to discuss the matter, filing a request for reconsideration or
filing an appeal with the Assessment Review Board. There are
deadlines associated with the filing of those two types of notices.
Bryan also noted legislated changes which have been approved
or are awaiting approval with respect to managed forests and
equine properties.
Reeve John McCrea noted there might be a need to hold a public
meeting at which MPAC could make a similar presentation. However,
council had not addressed the matter by the end of its meeting
Monday.
SCHOOL SCENE
Algonquin Public School: During October, the Character
Counts trait of "responsibility" has been highlighted.
This year, Algonquin's program is a unique blend of the eight
new UCDSB traits along with eight existing Algonquin traits;
each month has a different focus.
Students "caught" demonstrating these traits are
acknowledged on special classroom door displays and at recognition
assemblies.
In support of the program, students are selling 2006 Motivations
Calendars. Each month features a different theme, some which
perfectly match our Character Counts traits (honesty, pride,
compassion...) and others which offer complementary inspirational
messages such as "hard work and determination can reap a
harvest of rewards."
Lisa Raymond Kenney, who as part of her UCDSB job acts as
a "Travelling Tuesday" reading volunteer, thinks the
calendars are a wonderful way to reinforce good citizenship values.
Parents too, in response to the "No Surprises" reporting
on their child's progress, have given positive feedback about
the calendar promotion.
Boundary Street Public School: Members of school council
attended the School Council Fall Forum this past Saturday. A
great deal of information was gathered, particularly in the areas
of planning for playground improvements and playground enhancements.
Our junior soccer team will participate at a tournament in
Athens on Wednesday. Our coach is Mr. Lamoureux. Good luck, team.
Our Kindergarten will have a Halloween parade on Wednesday.
On Friday, we will have our student assembly at 9 am in the gym.
The primary students will take part in a Halloween parade to
visit the classrooms. Our students from grade 5 8 will
have a dance in the gym from 6 to 9 pm Friday evening.
Hot lunch this week is Wednesday (hot dogs) and on Friday
(wraps).
Centennial and North Edwardsburgh Public Schools: Halloween
is upon us, and trick or treating is a big part of this occasion.
We encourage all students to wear reflective gear on clothing
and remind students masks can obstruct vision when crossing a
road. Safety first!
CHEO nurse Mrs. Cassidy will visit North Edwardsburgh Public
School on Oct. 27 to talk about the treatment of cancer.
We acknowledge the Edwardsburgh/Cardinal Fire Department for
accommodating North Edwardsburgh students for their field trip.
The students always enjoy this activity and appreciate the great
service our fire department provides. Students learn about fire
safety at home and are taught the "Stop, Drop and Roll"
technique.
There will be a bus safety workshop at Centennial '67 this
week for students who ride the buses.
St. Mark Catholic School: This week, we are fortunate
to have Juno award winner Mary Lambert perform for our students
in a concert about the many different types of safety. Her concert
is this Friday, Oct. 28 at 9:30 am in the gymnasium.
On Hallowe'en Day Monday, Oct. 31, Officer Gary Sluytman of
Grenville County OPP will be in to the school at 10:30 am to
address trick or treat safety for all of our students. Our Hallowe'en
Parade will be held at 1 pm in the gym.
Hot lunch this week is pizza.
South Edwardsburg Public School: At South Edwardsburg,
staff, parents and the community work together to increase students'
life and learning opportunities.
At our last school council meeting, there was a presentation
about the Johnstown Block Parent Association. This is national
Block Parent week. South Edwardsburg School and the association
will be working together to heighten awareness of this program.
Anyone in the community who would like to be a part of this association
is encouraged to contact the school.
On Saturday, Nov. 12, Girls Inc. of Upper Canada is putting
on a free one-day workshop for mothers and daughters at South
Edwardsburg. It will run from 10 am to 4 pm, and lunch is provided.
It is open to all mothers and their elementary school-age daughters
in our community area. Information will be coming from local
schools or interested mothers can call Girls Inc. at 345-3295.
Teen dance set for Friday night at MERC Hall
MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Leeds and Grenville is hosting
a teen dance on Oct. 28 from 7 to 10 pm at the MERC Hall for
students in grades 5 through 8. The proceeds of this dance go
to the United Way.
Three Maitland senior boys cross-country runners captured
first, second and third places in the LGSSAA Cross-Country Meet
in Kemptville on Oct. 19. Matt Leeder won the gold after breaking
away from the pack early in the race. Rain soaked the seven-kilometre
course, creating very muddy, wet, slippery conditions. Geoff
Millard and Paul DeSchiffert finished second and third respectively.
All three boys are TISS students.
Charlotte Larry, also of TISS, won LGSSAA gold in the junior
girls division. Larry and Leeder had captured gold in the Manhattan
Invitational Cross-Country Meet the previous week. Qualifying
runners advance to EOSSAA, which will be run in Cobden on Oct.
28.
New Upper Canada board program all about character
BROCKVILLE Prescott will serve as the final stop in
a series of public meetings to explain the Upper Canada District
School Board's new character education program.
The information sessions began earlier this week; the last
of the 11 meetings will be held on Dec. 8 at 7 pm at South Grenville
District High School.
The program, which applies to elementary and secondary students,
is based on eight core virtues the board is trying to instill
in staff and students: caring, fairness, honesty, empathy, responsibility,
perseverance, respect and resilience. The list of virtues was
compiled based on input received at two public meetings held
in Kemptville last year and on consultation with trustees, parents,
staff and students.
"We want them (students) to be able to make thoughtful
decisions to improve their quality of life and to help them feel
better about themselves," stated Gina Camerano, principal
of character education, in a news release.
Research indicates kids do better academically when they feel
better about themselves, according to the board.
Character education lessons are now imbedded in the core curriculum.
There are also special projects and initiatives such as tsunami
relief which promote good citizenship.
Former NFL QB to speak about violence against women
BROCKVILLE The guest speaker at the Man to Men Conference
will also be giving a presentation to the public on combating
violence against women.
Former National Football League quarterback Don McPherson
will be the guest speaker at a breakfast to be held next Monday,
Oct. 31 at the Days Inn on Stewart Boulevard in Brockville. McPherson
will also be addressing male high school students later that
day at the conference at the Brockville Memorial Centre.
Breakfast will run from 7 to 8:30 am; there is a charge. For
more information or to register, call Cathy Spratt at the health
unit (345-5685).
The event is sponsored by both English district school boards,
the health unit, Leeds and Grenville Interval House, the Assault
Response and Care Centre, Child and Youth Wellness Centre and
Leeds and Grenville Rehabilitation and Counselling Services.
Mentors can make a difference
SOUTH GRENVILLE Volunteers are needed for the in-school
mentoring program operated by the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization
of Leeds and Grenville.
The adult volunteers serve as special friends to youngsters
in grades 3 to 5.
For more information on the in-school mentoring program, call
Susan at 345-0281.
EQAO testing results indicate some gains being made locally
SOUTH GRENVILLE Both English school boards report progress
in standardized test results released last Wednesday.
The annual testing of students in grades 3, 6 and 9 is conducted
by the Education and Quality Assurance Office (EQAO).
Students in grades 3 and 6 write reading, writing and mathematics
tests. EQAO conducts province-wide math tests for Grade 9 students
in academic and applied programs.
Results announced last week are from testing conducted in
the 2004/05 school year.
At the Upper Canada District School Board, 60 per cent of
Grade 3 students achieved or exceeded the provincial standard
in reading; the provincial average was 59 per cent. Fifty-eight
per cent made the grade in writing, three per cent lower than
the provincial average. Seventy per cent of Upper Canada Grade
3 students scored at or above the provincial standard in math,
four per cent higher than the provincial average of 66 per cent.
In Grade 6, 63 per cent of last year's Grade 6 students made
the grade in reading (the same as the provincial average). Fifty-six
per cent achieved or exceeded the standard in writing; the provincial
average was 59 per cent. In math, 59 per cent of Upper Canada
students hit the standard compared to the provincial average
of 60 per cent.
The Upper Canada board release listed results for all of its
schools. Results for grades 3 and 6 at South Edwardsburg and
Grade 3 at Boundary Street and Maitland schools are being suppressed
because there were fewer than 15 students in those grades.
The Journal plans to publish the local Upper Canada
results next week.
The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario reported
better results in five of six sets of results: Grade 3 reading
(59 per cent) and writing (57 per cent) and Grade 6 reading (60),
writing (55) and math (57). The result for Grade 3 math (65 per
cent meeting or exceeding the provincial standard) was the same
as the previous year.
"We are very pleased to see an overall increase in the
numbers once again," stated Director of Education Ann Perron.
"It proves yet again that we are moving in the right
direction," she added.
The Catholic board's news release did not include results
for individual schools. However, they are listed on the EQAO
Web site.
At St. Mark in Prescott, 62 per cent of last year's Grade
3 students achieved or exceeded the provincial standard in reading,
while 58 per cent met the standard in writing and 77 per cent
reached or surpassed the standard in math. The percentages of
last year's students at St. Joseph school in Prescott achieving
or exceeding the provincial standard were 48 in reading, 32 in
writing and 20 in math.
Math results mixed
Sixty-five per cent of last year's Upper Canada Grade 9 academic
students met or exceeded the standard in math testing; the provincial
average was 68 per cent. In applied math, 28 per cent of Upper
Canada students made the grade, one point higher than the provincial
average of 27 per cent.
Eighty per cent of South Grenville District High School academic
math students achieved the provincial standard or better, while
27 per cent of local applied math students made the standard.
South Grenville ranked fourth of 22 Upper Canada high schools
in academic and 12th of 21 in applied.
In Grade 9 math, 69 per cent of Catholic board students enrolled
in academic classes (the same as in the previous year) and 38
per cent in applied classes (six per cent higher than 2003-2004)
met or exceeded the provincial standard.
Students start preparing Soup for the Soul
PRESCOTT Plans are under way for this year's Soup for
the Soul community supper.
The annual Christmas dinner open to the public will take place
on Sunday, Dec. 18 at South Grenville District High School. The
Fusion group at South Grenville will host the event for a second
straight year.
Soup for the Soul was founded in 2001 by Prescott teenagers
Mackenzie Eaton and Kaitlynn Dodge. The first three suppers were
held at St. Mark's Parish Centre.
Marla Campeau, a staff advisor to Soup for the Soul at the
high school, said requests for support from local groups and
businesses are being distributed. This year's Soup for the Soul
co-chairs are Nellie Doherty and Vyky Van Tol.
Students will distribute flyers at the Light Up the Night
Parade on Friday, Nov. 18.
For more information on the community supper, call the high
school at 925-2855.
Orbison tribute show at Legion Friday night
PRESCOTT A Roy Orbison tribute show will take place
this Friday, Oct. 28 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 97 hall
on Henry Street.
The show starts at 8 pm. Tickets are available at Doyle's
and Prescott Beauty and Barber Shop on King Street West and at
the Legion.
Any remaining tickets will be sold at the door Friday night.
The show had originally been scheduled for Oct. 14 but was
postponed.
Tickets for the Oct. 14 show will be honoured at this Friday's
performance.
Youths really dig plowing club experience
By Steven Ferguson
On Aug. 20 and 21, the Grenville 4-H Plowing Club held two
practice days at Antique Wheels in Motion near Roebuck. Although
we had the choice of plowing either day, many members decided
to plow both days. The weather co-operated with us and we had
great plowing.
The plowing club does competition plowing which is different
from field plowing because we need to take our time and do the
opening split, crown and finish as well as we can. As well, we
plow with two-furrow plows.
We held our Achievement Day on Sept. 30 at the home of Hugh
Countryman. This time we had a bit of a hill to plow on, so it
was more challenging. The pizza at lunch was great, and the plowing
scores were close. In the end, though, it was Zach Morrison coming
out on top.
I would like to congratulate the 21 members that completed
the club and acknowledge Barb and Brian Maitland for leading
the club, Nick Wilson and Mel McGuire for all their help, and
Smith's Farm Equipment for sponsoring us. Our club is now over,
but we will be back next year!
Council calls for new chairs
MAYNARD Although Augusta council has not given the green
light to proceed with expanding the township office building,
it has approved one improvement to the facility.
Council passed a resolution Monday to purchase six new chairs
for the council chamber at a cost of no more than $100 per chair.
Some councillors noted the older chairs they are now using are
uncomfortable.
New booklet part of local effort to raise awareness of elder
abuse
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT The abuse and neglect of older persons is a
growing and under-reported problem, according to law enforcement
agencies and community organizations.
The Safe Community Coalition of Brockville and District, which
includes local OPP and Brockville and Gananoque police services
as well as the VON and the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional
Services, has produced A Safety Guide for Seniors. The
booklet (which was funded by the ministry) deals with elder abuse
and includes telephone and Web site listings and contact information
with which seniors can obtain assistance.
Demographics show the potential for elder abuse will keep
growing. Between 1996 and 2011, the number of senior citizens
in Ontario is expected to double from 1.6 million to more than
3.1 million.
Constable Gary Sluytman delivered a presentation on the subject
of elder abuse on Friday at 275 Water St. in Prescott. Sluytman
and Constable Rob Prophet are community service officers based
at the Grenville County Ontario Provincial Police detachment
in Prescott. They will be making presentations on elder abuse
to groups and organizations throughout the area.
Elder abuse comes in many forms: physical, financial and psychological,
as well as neglect. In addition to assault and unlawful confinement,
seniors might also be susceptible to the theft or exploitation
of their money, property or other assets. Someone else's actions
or comments can cause emotional anguish or fear. In some cases,
neglect can be intentional or unintentional.
There are times when caregivers (including the spouse of the
victim) gets overwhelmed and stressed to the point problems emerge.
Sluytman noted abusers could be anybody strangers, loved
ones or caregivers. He also suggested friends and family members
who notice abuse indicators (such as unexplained injuries or
signs of over- or under-medication) to take action. "Usually,
seniors don't want to talk about it," the constable said.
Sluytman acknowledged crimes involving elder abuse are under-reported.
The victim might be embarrassed about what has happened or is
fearful about his or her personal safety if police are called.
He also noted the victim might be reluctant to turn in a loved
one, even if that person has committed an offence and could do
so again.
The constable said he does not want to give seniors the impression
they have reason to be fearful of others.
"I don't want you to think everyone is out to abuse you,"
Sluytman commented. "Just be aware abuse is going on."
The constable noted if there has been a case of assault, unlawful
confinement or fraud (including overcharging by a caregiver),
the victim or someone on his or her behalf should call the police
immediately.
For more information on safety for seniors or to report elder
abuse, contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221. In an emergency
situation, dial 9-1-1 immediately.
Light Up the Night less than four weeks away
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT The Year of the Veteran will be the theme of
this year's Light Up the Night.
The annual Santa Claus parade presented by the Prescott Fire
Department will take place on the evening of Friday, Nov. 18.
This will be the 52nd edition of the local parade (the unofficial
start of the Christmas season locally) and the seventh to be
held at night.
As always, the parade will be preceded by a spaghetti dinner
from 4 to 6 pm at the Prescott Legion. There will also be a tree-lighting
ceremony in the clock tower square at 7 pm as the front of the
parade leaves the main parking lot of South Grenville District
High School.
The parade route remains the same as in recent years (Edward,
King and St. Lawrence streets). Light Up the Night co-chair John
Houston noted five bands are confirmed, as are Sparky the Fire
Prevention Dog and, of course, Santa Claus. Service clubs will
once again serve refreshments at points on the parade route,
he added. Members of the local CERV team will also assist with
traffic and crowd control.
The other co-chair, Barry Moorhouse, told town officials Monday
night there has been a request for additional garbage cans to
be placed at points along the route. Houston also asked about
the status of bridge repairs on the Edward Street/CN overpass,
which is part of the parade route. Mayor Robert Lawn noted work
is behind schedule, but the mayor added he believes the deck
will be ready in time for the parade as long as the weather co-operates.
"Tomorrow, they (workers at the site) will have an extra
pressure," Lawn remarked.
The mayor also said he was "almost overwhelmed"
to hear the theme chosen by the firefighters. Houston noted a
number of parade marshals are being selected by the Prescott
branch of the Royal Canadian Legion
The town donated $1,000 to Light Up the Night as part of the
2005 fire department budget. Contributions from businesses, groups
and individuals are needed to offset the cost of staging the
annual parade.
Firefighters are also encouraging groups and business to enter
floats in the parade.
Maynard remembrance service set for Nov. 6
MAYNARD The Maynard Remembrance Day Service will take
place Sunday, Nov. 6 at 12:30 pm at the cenotaph in Maynard Cemetery.
The public is invited to attend.
Groups state their cases for maintaining grants
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT Reducing or eliminating grants to minor hockey
and figure skating could have far-reaching negative effects on
the community, Prescott's finance and corporate services committee
has been told.
Officials from the Prescott Figure Skating Club and the South
Grenville Minor Hockey Association made separate presentations
to the committee Monday night. Town officials are in the early
stages of reviewing the municipal grant system.
The town gives grants to a number of junior recreation programs,
cultural events and other community projects and initiatives.
The list ranges from the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival and
the Sunday evening concerts in the summer to the Food For All
Food Bank and the Prescott Youth Centre.
The skating club and minor hockey are the only two organizations
which receive a set amount per participants ($100 for each Prescott
resident). In 2003-2004, this amounted to $8,400 for skating
and more than $7,000 for minor hockey.
In her presentation on behalf of figure skating, Joan Hubbard
told the committee the club's continued existence improves the
quality of life in the area and is an attraction for young families
who might consider moving to town. The club has always tried
to provide an inexpensive way for youngsters to learn to skate,
according to Hubbard. The club is experiencing an increase in
membership this year because it decreased the cost of its learn-to-skate
programs, she added.
Losing the annual grant from the town would force the club
to use up its surplus and then lead to higher fees that could
result in fewer kids skating, the committee was told. Hubbard
noted the figure skating club represents tens of thousands of
dollars in ice rental fees for the municipality.
Similar points were raised by minor hockey President Mike
Spencer. The association charges a base rate of $300 per player,
which is low compared to minor hockey programs in other communities
in the region. Of the 405 players in this year's South Grenville
program, 75 live in Prescott.
Spencer noted minor hockey is a safe and fun sporting environment
which keeps youngsters off the street and gives them a healthy
exercise option. In addition to ice time, Spencer noted the economic
benefits of having people visiting the arena canteen and going
to local businesses when South Grenville hosts visiting teams
and tournaments. Community Services Director Randy Pelehos also
cited the economic development benefits associated with the two
organizations.
Both groups cited the recent closure of Bingo International
as additional strains on their fundraising efforts.
Councillor and finance committee chair Suzanne Dodge assured
the two groups council is just trying to make its budget process
more efficient. In noting the considerable efforts being made
by the volunteers with the figure skating club and minor hockey,
Dodge indicated the town might adjust the way funding is allocated
but there are no plans to cut off funding to minor sports and
other groups. "We're not even close to taking any of that
away," she said.
Dodge noted the Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal does not
provide a grant to South Grenville minor hockey even though almost
half of its players live in the municipality and both arenas
are used for practices, games and tournaments.
Prevention, management keys to diabetes awareness
SOUTH GRENVILLE - November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and
the Canadian Diabetes Association has launched a Diabetes: Get
Serious campaign urging all Canadians to get serious about diabetes
prevention and management.
They are advising the public they may be at risk, but can
take steps to help prevent type 2 diabetes and if you have diabetes,
steps can be taken to prevent or delay health complications.
More than two million Canadians have diabetes and that number
will reach three million by 2010. It is a leading cause of death
by disease and costs the health-care system an estimated $13.2
billion per year.
Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being over the age
of 40, being related to a person with diabetes, being of Aboriginal,
Hispanic, South Asian, Asian or African descent and being overweight
or obese.
The Canadian Diabetes Association works to prevent diabetes
and improve the quality of life for those affected, through research,
education, service and advocacy.
Door-to-door canvassing in South Grenville is already under
way and will continue until the end of November.
As part of the campaign, association volunteers will be at
O'Reilly's Your Independent Grocer on Nov. 1 to increase awareness
of the disease.
Also on Nov. 1, pharmacies in Prescott and Cardinal have been
asked to distribute diabetes risk cards with prescriptions filled
that day. The cards list a description of people's backgrounds
or symptoms which could mean they are at risk of having type
2 diabetes.
The tri-county area will be holding a Diabetes: Get Serious
panel to talk with the public about their experience of living
with diabetes on Tuesday, Nov. 8 from 7 until 8:30 pm at the
Brockville YMCA at 345 Park St.
For more information on the campaign, visit www.diabetes.ca/
get serious or call the Canadian Diabetes Association at 345-0992.
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