Another robbery at store
Pellet gun discharged; clerk hit but not injured
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT Grenville County OPP are investigating a second
robbery in less than a week at the Mac's convenience store on
King Street West.
Just after midnight Sunday, two males entered the store and
ordered the male clerk and a male customer onto the floor. The
suspects were armed with what are believed to be pellet guns.
After taking an undisclosed amount of money and cigarettes, the
two males left the store through the back door.
As they were leaving, one of the suspects discharged his gun
several times. The male clerk was struck in the chest at least
once, but he was not injured.
At about 3:30 am on Monday, Oct. 31, four masked men entered
the store, took a quantity of cash and cigarettes and fled on
foot. At least two of the suspects were reportedly armed with
guns. The male clerk was not injured. A similar robbery took
place the same morning at a Mac's in Brockville.
Descriptions released
On Monday, the OPP released to The Journal descriptions
of suspects in both Prescott robberies. In the case of the second
robbery, one suspect was wearing a gray balaclava and a jacket
that was red on top, gray on the bottom and had a white horizontal
line in the middle. The second suspect was wearing a dark hood
and dark clothes.
In addition to local officers, the OPP called in a K-9 unit,
identification officer and the emergency response team to assist
with the investigation.
In the Oct. 31 robbery, all four suspects are described as
white males. Suspect number one did not wear a mask; the other
three suspects wore similar dark masks. The first suspect was
18 to 20 and thin with dark collar-length hair. He was wearing
a below-the-waist coat, dark, baggy pants and a dark cap with
an emblem on it.
Suspect number two is about 6' tall and thin. He was wearing
a hooded black fleece sweater and had a young-sounding voice.
He was armed with what appeared to be a handgun. The third suspect,
who also had a handgun, is about 5'8" with a medium build
who was also wearing a hooded black fleece sweater and possibly
a green sweater underneath it.
Suspect number four is about 6'2" or 6'3" and slim
with a long, narrow face and a large adam's apple. He was wearing
a gray and white fleece sweater and carrying a club or baseball
bat. He also had a black handbag.
Police indicated Monday it is unknown whether the two robberies
in Prescott are connected.
Anyone with information on these cases is asked to contact
the OPP at 925-4221 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
THIS WEEK
Remembrance Day ceremonies on Friday
SOUTH GRENVILLE Remembrance Day ceremonies will take
place this Friday morning at cenotaphs in Prescott (Fort Wellington),
Cardinal (east of Village Square Mall) and Spencerville (in front
of township hall beside Spencerville United Church).
Colour parties are expected to arrive at all three cenotaphs
shortly before 11 am. In Spencerville, the Remembrance Day service
starts at 10 am at the United church.
Most federal government offices will be closed this Friday,
Nov. 11 in observance of Remembrance Day. Many other offices
and some businesses will be closed for part of or all of the
day on Friday.
Tom Wilson to appear at St. John's on Sunday
PRESCOTT Tom Wilson & Border Bluegrass will perform
at St. John's Anglican Church on Sunday, Nov. 13.
The concert by the popular entertainers starts at 7:30 pm.
There will be a free-will offering; light refreshments will be
served after the performance.
Prior to the show, St. John's will host a Hymns and Praise
gathering at 7 pm. All are welcome to join in the singing of
old-time favorite hymns.
St. John's is located at the corner of Centre and James streets.
Get tickets for Ducks Unlimited banquet
ROEBUCK Ducks Unlimited will host its annual Prescott-area
banquet and live and silent auctions on Friday, Nov. 18 at Roebuck
Community Hall on County Road 18.
For tickets or more information, contact Jim Holmes at 925-4800
or Paul Van Luit at 925-3312. Tickets are also available at Knapp's
Yamaha and Berrys Pet Food and Supplies.
Graduates come home to South Grenville
Alex Ward receives 2005 Principal's Award at high school
commencement
By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - The end of an era and the beginning of a new one
was celebrated at South Grenville District High School's commencement
held Saturday afternoon.
"To graduating students, this is an afternoon filled
with many memories," stated Upper Canada School Board Trustee
Joan Hodge, who offered opening remarks to the 143-member graduating
class. "You will soon realize the value of your educational
achievements... Enjoy lifelong education."
Greetings to the class were also offered by Director of Education
David Thomas, who stated some of the most important things graduating
students can do as they progress through life, whether going
on in school or into the world of work is to "show up and
pay attention." He also encouraged the graduates to "never
give up on (your) dreams or yourself," and also to show
the value of perseverance.
Ted Whiteland, who was principal at the school for the 2004-2005
academic year, told the graduates "Your years here (will
be) referred to as the good old days in the not-too-distant future...
I wish you all nothing but the best as you continue on your journey."
Current SGDHS Principal Joellen Bauder mentioned Whiteland
is, in effect, a "graduate" from the Upper Canada District
School Board, as he retired earlier this year.
A great many awards and honours were bestowed upon graduates
at the ceremony. One of the most coveted awards given is the
Principal's Award, which is awarded to a deserving student who
displays an effective blend of athletics, scholastic achievement
and school involvement.
This year's award winner is Alex Ward, daughter of Robert
and Daisy Ward of Riverview Heights.
Past SGDHS principal Brenda Ramsay prefaced Ward's receipt
of the award by saying "I wish to acknowledge a student
who has been an active participant in school life at South Grenville.
What distinguishes her is the independence and integrity that
she has shown in every facet of school life."
Ramsay then went on to list a number of Ward's achievements,
including co-president of Giant Fusion, executive member of Energizers
and athletic association president.
Ramsay also highlighted Ward's athletic achievements, which
included being a team member on junior and senior volleyball,
soccer and basketball teams and receiving both the junior and
senior athlete of the year awards.
"She is one of the most reliable, professional people
I have come in contact with - always a rock, leading by example
- a model for her peers."
After the ceremony, Ward, who is now a student at the University
of Guelph taking applied health and nutrition, said it was "really
nice" to receive recognition for what she's done. In regards
to her athletic and school involvement, Ward stated "You
get a lot out of what you put in." Ward is also continuing
her athletic career, having made the University volleyball team
as a setter.
Valedictorian for the graduating class was Jacob McGuire,
who regaled the class with a humorous take on their years spent
at South Grenville.
McGuire, the son of Matthew and Jane McGuire of Spencerville,
opened his speech by thanking his father for his support, saying
his dad offered encouragement this past spring while in the hospital
with a broken neck when Jacob told him he was running for the
position. "This one's for you, dad," an emotional McGuire
stated.
He then took the graduating class on an amusing trip through
their past four years, which included such highlights as paying
money to see Bauder's head shaved. "Our stay in South Grenville
High School, like preschool, was a pretty good time."
McGuire closed his speech by saying "We will never forget
our years in Giant Country... Giants rule!" which brought
a standing ovation from the audience.
McGuire returned to South Grenville this year, and expects
to pursue a career either as a teacher or in business.
The Governor General Award, which is given to the graduate
with the highest average, was awarded to Mitch Hargreaves. "I'm
very pleased to get it," he stated.
Hargreaves, the son of Marion and Richard Hargreaves, is currently
studying nanotechnology at the University of Waterloo. When asked
for an explanation of the discipline, he stated "(It's)
all about building little machines at the atomic level."
New mural depicts old CPR station
By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - Downtown got a little brighter Saturday morning
when a mural featuring Prescott's Canadian Pacific Railway station
was unveiled on the side of Eva Neron's Art Studio and Gallery
on King Street West.
The mural was unveiled by Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn and Grenville
Historical Society President Sandra Shouldice.
Neron, who opened Eva's Art Studio and Gallery earlier this
year, stated the 8'x8' mural took 120 hours to complete using
primarily black and white house paint. The mural was painted
from a 1914 photograph which was lent to Neron by Evan LeClair.
The railway station depicted in the mural was located in the
Prescott rail yards east of downtown, where a portion of the
Heritage River Trail is now located. It is thought to have been
constructed in between 1850 and 1854. The station went out of
use in about 1960 and was demolished.
"I intended to do something (using) downtown history,"
stated Neron, who added the photograph provided a good basis
for the large mural.
"It's the largest piece I've ever done," she added.
"I hope to do lots more (murals)."
Neron also said she believes the mural will act as a good
"conversation piece" for passersby, and will also serve
to keep the history of Prescott alive. "It will help people
know about history, ask questions," she said. "Still
quite a few people remember the depot."
The mural drew praise from the crowd who gathered to watch
the unveiling. "I feel quite close to this mural,"
stated Shouldice, who added her grandfather was a section foreman
at the rail yards on Prescott's waterfront where the station
was located. "He used to talk about the rail station,"
she added.
Shouldice also added the mural is important from an educational
perspective, in that it will inform people who are unfamiliar
with the old train station.
Lawn credited Neron for completing the mural. "I want
to say thank you on behalf of all of us," said Lawn, who
added Neron's gallery and studio is an "important addition
to the commerce of downtown."
Pandemic to be discussed at public meeting
BROCKVILLE The federal minister of state (public health)
will be in Brockville this Saturday, Nov. 12 to discuss the myths
and realities of a flu pandemic.
The working lunch meeting, which is open to the public, will
run from noon to 2 pm in the student lounge at St. Lawrence College
on Parkedale Avenue. A news release issued on behalf of Leeds-Grenville
Liberal candidate Bob Eaton states the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
was invited in response to concerns raised during Eaton's 20/20
Tour of the riding.
In addition to noting what Canada is doing about the possibility
of a pandemic, the minister will address steps health professionals
can take and the potential impact a bird-flu outbreak could have
on poultry farmers.
Giant Craft Show to have something for everyone
PRESCOTT - Get a jump on Christmas shopping at the Giant Craft
Show to be held next Saturday, Nov. 19 at South Grenville District
High School.
The show, which is in its 28th year, runs from 9 am to 4 pm.
There will be 225 craft tables featuring a diverse blend of items
from craftspeople and artisans across Ontario.
There is a nominal admission fee.
The show is being sponsored by the South Grenville Alumni
Association, and all proceeds from the event will be used for
school activities.
The show is being held on the first level of the school in
the school's gymnasiums, hallways and foyers.
The craft items to be offered for purchase include large furniture
items, household decorating items such as quilts and sun catchers
and food items including preserves, honey and baked goods. The
show will also feature baby clothes, quilts and jewelry among
many other items.
The show is expected to feature a great deal of Christmas-themed
merchandise.
The Giant Craft Show also features door prize draws. In addition,
there will be a canteen at the event which is being run by high
school students.
The United Way auction bidding starts on Friday
BROCKVILLE The United Way's silent and live auctions
will take place this Friday and Saturday at the 1000 Islands
Mall.
The live auction starts on Saturday at 2 pm. Carrie Hands
will be the auctioneer as at least 60 items including a
car supplied by Riverside Pontiac Buick go up for bid.
Other vehicles, a tractor and personal watercraft will also be
up for grabs at the live auction.
The silent auction includes items ranging from golf packages
and clothes to toys and TV memorabilia. Many items have been
donated by businesses in the Leeds and Grenville area. Anyone
wishing to donate can still do so.
Participants in the live auction must be registered prior
to bidding. To register, place an advance bid or get more information,
call the United Way office at 342-8889 or visit www.uwlg.org.
The goal of the 2005 United Way campaign is to raise $800,000.
Opponents prompt council to defer making decision on rezoning
bylaw
By Tim Ruhnke, Journal Editor
PRESCOTT Town council has decided to review a proposed
bylaw which would enable law offices to be set up in a house
on King Street West.
The bylaw had been slated for a final vote by Prescott council
Monday night. However, council opted to defer the matter to a
committee meeting next Monday night in response to concerns expressed
by a couple who own the house next door.
The house at 550 King Street West is owned by Anne Gregory,
who operates a family law practice in Ottawa. Gregory is proposing
to relocate the practice to the King Street property which is
zoned residential. Town staff are recommending approval of a
zoning bylaw change which would permit residential and professional
uses in the house.
At a public meeting held prior to the regular meeting of council
Monday night, Gregory said she has fallen in love with Prescott
and plans to make significant improvements to the exterior and
interior of the old house. In noting there was already a substantial
commercial component in the neighbourhood, Gregory said there
would be sufficient space for parking in the back of the property
and for vehicles to turn around without backing out onto King
Street. A granny suite on the property would be rented as a one-bedroom
apartment.
However, the owners of 562 King Street voiced their objections
to the proposal. Rod Hall said he and his wife have spent $60,000
to $70,000 fixing up the house they purchased three years ago.
The Halls said they did not anticipate the prospect of having
a nice landscaped garden next to a neighbour's parking lot. In
noting there is plenty of available commercial space downtown,
Hall told council permitting commercial use at 560 King would
be a step backwards.
Councillor Chuck Street, who also serves as planning committee
chair, told the Halls that council had not received any objections
when the proposed bylaw was being drafted. Under the circumstances,
though, Street said it might be best for the rezoning to be reviewed
at the committee level.
In the end, Mayor Robert Lawn indicated third and final reading
of the bylaw would not proceed. Instead, the matter would be
discussed at a committee-of-the-whole meeting next Monday. Council
agreed to leave the bylaw at first and second reading.
The only other member of the public to speak at the special
meeting Monday was Teresa Pelda, who voiced her support for the
plan to use the house as a family law office. She said the area
is in need of such services, adding the location is ideal for
that use.
Later in the council meeting, Councillor Bob Pelda said he
would abstain from voting on the bylaw because of his friendship
with Gregory. The councillor noted he is not sure whether he
has a conflict of interest in this case, but he acknowledged
that might be the perception.
If and when the bylaw is approved, it would be submitted to
the province for its approval. There would be a fixed period
during which any member of the public could try to appeal the
matter to the Ontario Municipal Board.
The mayor stated there will be an attempt by council to return
the bylaw for final reading at the Nov. 21 meeting, although
there were no assurances it would happen on that date.
Prescott council gives its approval to final draft of revised
official plan
PRESCOTT A revised official plan for Prescott is one
step closer to becoming a reality.
Town council gave final reading Monday night to a bylaw to
adopt the revised plan and submit it to the province for approval
by the municipal affairs ministry.
Among other things, the official plan establishes general
land-use principles and guidelines for the municipality. Earlier
this year, the town began the process of revising the existing
plan which had been in place since the early 1990s.
Prescott Mayor Robert Lawn indicated the final draft approved
by council Monday night is not much different than what the public
saw at an open house earlier this fall. Lawn noted Prescott was
seen more as an industrial centre when the previous version of
the plan was being drafted in the late 1980s. The new version
reflects the new economic reality of the small town, with more
emphasis being placed on residential development.
Councillor and planning committee chairman Chuck Street echoed
Lawn's remarks, adding the official plan review process shows
the community is current in its thinking.
Although he acknowledged the official plan might not be the
most exciting subject to the public, Street emphasized it is
one of the most important things council will do during its term
in office.
Once the necessary approvals are obtained and the revised
official plan is officially adopted, the town will work on changes
to its zoning bylaw to reflect the new plan. Lawn said the official
plan should provide direction for the community for the next
10 years or so.
Fewer were jobless in October: HRSDC
Prescott office reports drop of nine per cent in EI claims
compared to previous month
KINGSTON The local employment picture brightened last
month, according to figures released Friday by Human Resources
and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC).
The jobless rate for the region that includes South Grenville
was 6.2 per cent in October compared to 6.7 per cent in September.
However, the current rate is higher than at this time last year
when the unemployment rate was 4.8 per cent.
An HRSDC news release issued Friday states construction, trade
and business, building and other support services experienced
increases compared to last year. There were, however, decreases
last month in information, culture and recreation employment.
As for Employment Insurance (EI) claims, the Prescott HRSDC
office had 826 regular and special claimants on the books at
the end of October, a decrease of 9.1 per cent from the 909 active
claims on file at the end of September. There were 13.6 per cent
fewer EI claimants in the Kingston-Pembroke management area last
month.
The regional unadjusted unemployment rate is no lower than
the rates for Ontario and Canada.
Take Curves challenge, help fight diabetes
PRESCOTT The Curves location in Prescott will once again
be taking part in a challenge this year as a fundraiser for the
Canadian Diabetes Association.
Members are being asked to collect pledges and "challenge
their own curves" by working out next Monday, Nov. 14. For
information, call Darlean at 925-5628 or Catherine at 384-9374.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month.
No other reports of straight pins being found in candy
PRESCOTT Police are still investigating the discovery
of a straight pin in Halloween candy collected by a youngster
in Maynard.
The child's father was not injured early last week when he
reached inside a trick-or-treat bag and pricked his finger. He
dumped the contents of the bag and found the pin sticking out
of a box of Smarties.
Constable Gary Sluytman, a community services officer with
Grenville County OPP, told The Journal Monday there have
been no other reports of foreign objects being found in Halloween
candy.
The constable said the incident is being treated as suspicious.
The box has been submitted to the forensic identification unit,
according to Sluytman.
Constable McConnell is the investigating officer.
SCHOOL SCENE
Algonquin Public School: We're proud of our EQAO test
results and of the steps staff have taken to help students achieve
this. Teachers are keen to continue this "journey in discovery,"
setting their sights on improving student achievement, examining
instructional strategies that will help students get to the next
level.
This fall, Algonquin teachers again have been heavily involved
in professional development opportunities, focusing on both literacy
and math. Over the past three years, through the FOUR (Focus
on Upgrading Results) early reading intervention program, the
major reading gains made by individual students have been tracked.
Coupled with this are the positive results we achieved using
the Essential Skills software program. While we are proudly sharing
our "best practices," similarly we are tapping into
the expertise of colleagues whose best practices also have resulted
in improved student achievement. Subsequently, teachers at each
grade level have identified one or two specific skills to address,
seeking improvement within a five-week timespan.
Boundary Street Public School: Congratulations to members
of our boys and girls senior volleyball teams. Tryouts are now
complete and practices and games will begin. We acknowledge our
coaches, Mrs. Arthurs, Mrs. Cromb, Mrs. Fortier, and Ms. Valliant,
for sharing their time and expertise with us.
Our weekly assembly will be held on Friday morning at 9 am.
The character trait that we are currently working on is honesty.
Interim letters for student-led conferences scheduled for
Wednesday, Nov. 23 and Thursday, Nov. 24 will be sent home on
Monday, Nov. 14. Please complete and return to the classroom
teacher by Wednesday, Nov. 16. The staff will schedule interview
times, and the schedules will be sent home on Friday, Nov. 18.
Student council will meet on Monday at lunchtime each week.
Hot lunch this week is pogos on Wednesday and subs on Friday.
Centennial '67 and North Edwardsburgh Public Schools:
Flu season is upon us, and no one wants to get caught by the
flu virus. While hand-washing is a very important deterrent,
an additional precaution is to get a flu shot. There will be
a flu clinic held at Centennial '67 school on Nov. 21 from 4
to 7 pm for those wishing to avail themselves of this free service.
Students will participate in the services at the United Church
at 10 am on Remembrance Day. Following the church service, students
will walk to the cenotaph to participate in the laying of the
wreaths. Both staff and students of Centennial '67 welcome parents
to join us as we honour members of our community. Each class
will prepare a reading or contribution for this community Remembrance
Day service. Members of the student council are invited to walk
with the veterans.
North Edwardsburgh students will be having their own classroom
ceremonies to mark this important day.
We would like to acknowledge Mr. Woodhead for taking the time
to talk to our students about the "Year of the Veteran."
Students enjoyed the informative talk and had lots of questions
answered.
There will be a Scholastic book fair taking place this month
at both schools. This is a great opportunity to pick up something
for Christmas! You will have an opportunity to view the books
in the Centennial '67 school library during parent teacher interviews
- Wednesday, Nov. 23 from 3:30 to 7:30 pm and Thursday, Nov.
24 from 12 to 7:30 pm.
The Character Awards Assembly was held on Friday. October's
theme was Caring. Students were awarded certificates in the five
categories - academic, athletic, all around awesome, attitude
and attendance. The character awards theme for November is Fairness.
Central Public School: The Kindergarten class is practising
the poem Little Puppy, which will be presented at the
Remembrance Day assembly. Congratulations to Lindsey Hoogwerf
and Ashton Sipes, our Halloween colouring contest winners.
Our grade 1/2 class began its literacy centres last week.
We were busy reading the room, buddy reading, sharing big books
and making connections.
The grade 2/3 class did a presentation on fairness at the
monthly assembly. They did an excellent job reciting poems and
performing a skit.
The senior girls volleyball team will be participating in
a tournament in Iroquois on Sunday, Nov. 13. Both boys and girls
teams have upcoming exhibition games against Boundary Street.
Student council will be selected this week.
October Student of the Month recipients were: Madison Sipes,
Lindsey Hoogwerf (JK/SK); Felicity Smith (Grade 1/2); Devan Hutchinson
(Grade 2/3); Cassidy Spero (Grade 4); Nick Crowder (Grade 5/6);
Sean Perrin (Grade 7/8); Lennon MacDonald and Johanna Fee (French).
South Edwardsburg Public School: At South Edwardsburg
Public School staff, parents and the community work together
to increase our students learning and life chances.
We have recently launched a new school web site for our school.
Check it out for timely information. www.ucdsb.on.ca/ southed/.
On Saturday, Nov. 12, Girls Inc. of Upper Canada is presenting
a one-day workshop for mothers and daughters (ages 10-14) at
South Edwardsburg school from 10 am to 4 pm.
The workshop is aimed at building confidence and increasing
listening skills and communication. Anyone interested from the
surrounding community is encouraged to call Girls Inc. at 345-3295.
Staff and students are observing Remembrance Day with a special
ceremony that begins at 10:15 am. Our school community is invited
to attend.
Students give older computers new lease on life
PRESCOTT A program that provides computers to school
children is seeking support from the community.
Refurbishing Enterprise Adapting Computers for Homes (REACH)
is run by students at T.R. Leger School and is located at South
Grenville District High School.
The students refurbish older computers; most of the refurbished
equipment is given to elementary school students who need a computer
in their home.
REACH is seeking donations of computers and related hardware
such as hard drives, video cards, sound cards and modems.
To make a donation or for more information on the local program,
call Clint or Aaron at 925-1840 or go online and visit visit
ucdsb.on.ca/reach.
Trumpet and Organ form a near-perfect balance
FORT TOWN CONCERT REVIEW by Colin Boag
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Prescott really came into
its own on Friday evening when the Fort Town Concert Association
presented a recital by internationally-acclaimed organist, Vincent
Boucher, and award-winning trumpet player, Stéphane Beaulac.
Boucher opened the recital with a work by Handel, (1658-1759),
his Voluntary X11 in F minor for organ. This was followed
by works by Purcell (1659-1695) and a piece originally credited
to Purcell but later correctly identified as a work composed
by G. Clarke, the ever-popular Trumpet Voluntary.
Boucher's playing in these opening works was a little shaky
presumably due to his unfamiliarity with this particular organ
but shortly thereafter, with his quiet reflective rendition of
Scarlatti's (1685-1757) K69 in F minor and dazzlingly
fast finger and foot work in his K517 in D minor, he demonstrated
his mastery of the instrument.
Beaulac's mastery of his instrument was evident right from
the start with every note coming across crystal clear. His rendition
of Clarke's Trumpet Voluntary, backed by the organ, was
particularly moving.
The first half of the recital closed with the Sonata for
Trumpet & Organ by G. Delerue (1925-1992), one of very
few works written specifically for these two instruments. The
work of another 20th century composer, H. Tomasi, was included
later in the program.
Boucher opened the second half of the recital with a work
by Claude Balbastre (1727-1788), Noel and Variations.
Balbastre's performances of his own work at Christmas services
were so popular and attracted such large crowds that the archbishop
of the time, fearing rowdyism, banned Balbastre from the church.
Boucher's energetic rendition drew well-deserved, sustained,
but definitely not rowdy, applause from the large audience at
St. Andrew's.
Three of the best-loved works by J.S. Bach (1685-1750), his
Toccata & Fugue in D Minor, BWV 565, for organ,
Wachet Auf, BWV 645, and Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring,
BWV147 during which Boucher and Beaulac combined in near-perfect
balance closed this very well-received recital.
The recital was sponsored by Geoffrey and Judith Caldwell.
The next concert in the Fort Town series, Opera Hit Parade,
with works by Puccini and Donizetti, will take place in St Andrew's
church in Prescott on Feb. 3, 2006.
Book launch part of special Christmas program at Fort Wellington
on Nov. 26
PRESCOTT The launch of a children's book will be one
of the highlights of Fort Wellington's Garrison Christmas program
later this month.
The national historic site will be open to the public on Saturday,
Nov. 26 from 11 am to 3 pm.
The barracks area will be decorated to depict Christmas in
the 1840s. Costumed interpreters will describe what Christmas
was like for soldiers and their families.
Demonstrations of traditional aboriginal egg basket making
will be conducted by Gwen Marriott.
Visitors will be invited to make traditional holiday decorations
to take home as well as sip hot apple cider and eat cookies,
according to a release.
The visitor centre will also be open on this special occasion.
At 1 pm, the Friends of Windmill Point will launch a new book,
Redcoats and River Pirates, by Dianne Graves.
There will be other authors on hand to sign their own books:
Sandra Robertson (The North Channel Cemetery: Let the Stone
Speak), Donald E. Graves (Guns Across the River),
Anne-Marie L. Shields (Lost Villages: Found Communities)
and Gordon Swoger (The Strange Odyssey of Poland's National
Treasures, 1939-1961).
There is no admission fee; however, visitors are asked to
donate a canned good to the annual Spirit of Giving Christmas
campaign being conducted by the Kinsmen Club of Prescott.
Men invited to have breakfast and shoot pool
WALKER HOUSE NEWS by MARNIE LIPPIATT
We are inviting men to come and join us for a breakfast at
8:30 am on Nov. 22. Later in the morning, we are also planning
to have a game of pool. If you can attend either or both of these
events, please register. The number to call is 925-5300.
The hardanger group meets on Tuesday at 7 pm, and the next
book club meets Wednesday at 1 pm. Come and share your ideas.
Card game winners: Monday afternoon bridge 1st, Doris
Mossman; 2nd, Charlie Steiner; door, Nancy Coligan. Fun bridge
Dorothy Durant. Tuesday night cribbage 1st, Micheline
Cook; 2nd, Dora Cook. Wednesday night bridge 1st, Jim Campbell;
2nd, Nancy Coligan. Euchre 1st, Bea Hemsley; 2nd, Jean
Annable; 3rd, Micheline Cook and Jeannine Marion.
Walker House is located on King Street just west of the Prescott
Health Centre.
Local Air Cadets are busy taking part in Remembrance Day
activities and events
By John E. Henry, Commanding Officer
PRESCOTT The Air Cadets of 661 Lt W.F. Sharpe Squadron
Prescott have been very busy taking part in numerous Remembrance
Week events with their official sponsor, Branch 97 of the Royal
Canadian Legion.
On Saturday, Nov. 5, the Prescott-based cadets continued their
annual tradition of assisting with poppy sales throughout the
town. Many cadets came out in support of this great cause completing
shifts alongside their peers and members of the branch.
Some of the more senior cadets present remarked it was their
sixth consecutive year helping out with poppy sales, one of many
long-standing traditions at Branch 97.
On Sunday, Nov. 6, the cadets and staff of 661 were in full
dress, marching in the annual Remembrance Church Parade. Squadron
Chaplin and Legion Zone Chaplin, Rev. Gerry Ring, led the service
which was held at St. John's Anglican Church.
The cadets, staff and parents helped to fill the chapel alongside
veterans and other members of the branch. This service also included
a parade to and from the Legion on Henry Street. In all, close
to 40 unit personnel attended.
The Air Cadets will participate in the unit's second annual
school service, to be held today at Grenville Christian College
as well as the official Remembrance Day service this Friday,
Nov. 11.
Youth and members of the public are always welcome to visit
661 squadron. The cadet program is available to youth from 12
to 19 years of age. Membership, training and uniforms are all
free.
Visit us on Tuesday nights from 6 to 9 at South Grenville
District High School or call the unit at 498-7661 for more information.
Mark your Maitland Community Calendar
MAITLAND NEWS by Jane Fullarton
The 2006 Maitland Community Calendar will be available to
Maitland residents free of charge this year thanks to the strong
support of local sponsors.
This is the third annual edition of the calendar and it features
contact numbers for local organizations, dates and times of local
events and birthdays and anniversaries of Maitland residents.
For information, contact Geoff Noyes at 348-1317.
Introductory meditation classes are being offered at Maitland
Public School. For information, contact Dianne Brown at 348-3165.
The Social Dance Club is having a dance at the MERC Hall on
Nov. 11 from 8 pm to midnight. Contact Martha McMullen at 342-7941
for information.
Matt Leeder placed fifth in Saturday's OFSAA Cross-Country
Championship Meet in Odessa. Maitland teammates Geoff Millard
and Paul DeSchiffert helped the senior boys team win the silver
medal.
TISS won the overall OFSAA championship for the second year
in a row.
Always room for a few more floats as firefighters prepare
for parade
PRESCOTT Nine days to go until Santa takes a ride around
Prescott.
The annual Light Up the Night Parade is set for next Friday,
Nov. 18.
For more than 50 years, the Prescott Fire Department has organized
the Christmas parade in the Fort Town. This marks the seventh
year of the nighttime version.
Organizers do not insist parade entrants register in advance.
The parade starts forming in the high school's main parking lot
about an hour before the front of the parade begins to head south
on Edward Street.
John Houston, co-chair of this year's parade, said the night-time
event continues to be a major draw for the community. "We've
seen excellent attendance every year," he said. "I
think it bodes well for the town," Houston added.
Barry Moorhouse, a fellow firefighter, is the other co-chair.
As of late last week, five bands had been confirmed. They
include the Brockville Lions Steel Band and DJ Jazz plus bands
from Kemptville, Arnprior and Cornwall.
In honour of the Year of the Veteran, the parade marshals
will be selected by Branch 97 of the Royal Canadian Legion.
The annual pre-parade spaghetti dinner at the Prescott Legion
returns for another year, as does the more recent tradition of
lighting the spruce tree in the clock tower parking lot at 7
pm. The ladies barbershop singers from Brockville will entertain
the crowd at the tree shortly before and after the lighting ceremony.
Firefighters cannot stage the annual Santa Claus parade without
financial support from the community. Houston said donations
have been good so far, but additional money is always welcome.
For more information or to donate to Light Up the Night, call
Houston at 925-1226 or Moorhouse at 925-1697.
Gold rings and bracelet taken from home; rear window of town
car gets smashed
PRESCOTT Officers with the Grenville County detachment
of the Ontario Provincial Police responded to 71 calls for service
in the Prescott patrol zone last week.
A break-in at a Park Street West residence netted thieves
an estimated $1,000 worth of audio-video equipment. The occupant
found the front door wide open when he returned at about 2:30
am on Monday, Oct. 31. It is believed the theft took place after
8 pm the previous night. The missing items include a Magnasonic
DVD/VCD/CD/MP3 player, a PlayStation, several games and CDs.
Constable Barr is investigating.
Later on Monday morning, police received a report the town's
2003 silver Pontiac Sunfire had been damaged. The rear window
had been smashed, and a rock was found inside the car parked
beside town hall on Dibble Street West. Damage was estimated
at $200. Constable McConnell is the investigating officer.
The constable was also called that morning to investigate
the theft of a licence plate from an Oldsmobile parked by Water
Street. The plate in question was seized by Brockville police
the same night. A suspect was identified; the investigation continues.
On Thursday at about 9:49 pm, Constable Barr began to investigate
the theft of jewellery from a McAuley Road residence. A woman
reported four gold rings and one gold bracelet with a total value
of $5,400 were missing. There were no signs of a break-in. It
is believed the items went missing sometime during the previous
month.
Anyone with information on these or any other cases is asked
to contact Grenville County OPP at 925-4221 or call Crime Stoppers
at 1-800-222-8477.
In an emergency situation, dial 9-1-1.
This is Crime Prevention Week.
Get those EODF applications in ASAP
PRESCOTT Time is running out to submit applications
to the Eastern Ontario Development Fund (EODF).
The multi-million-dollar regional program funded by the federal
government provides grants and loans for a range of activities
such as capital projects, youth internships, training and façade
improvements. For example, a property owner could receive an
interest-free loan of up to $10,000 (with repayment of up to
10 years) for upgrades to the exterior of a commercial building.
EODF is overseen at the local level by community futures development
corporations. Prescott-based Grenville Community Futures Development
Corporation (GCFDC) covers the municipalities of Augusta, North
Grenville, Edwardsburgh/Cardinal and Prescott.
GCFDC Executive Director Heather Lawless acknowledged some
program areas have received better responses than others. Although
there are areas for which the allocated funding has been committed,
Lawless noted redistribution of remaining funds from other sections
of the program could occur.
Applications are reviewed by the GCFDC board of directors
on a regular basis. The next (and possibly the final) deadline
for local submissions for EODF funding is Nov. 13. However, Lawless
noted applications received on Monday, Nov. 14 would also be
considered. For more information on the Eastern Ontario Development
Fund, visit www.grenvillecfdc. com or call 925-4275.
Next chamber meeting on Nov. 16
JOHNSTOWN Prescott and District Chamber of Commerce
directors are reminded this month's lunch meeting will be held
next Wednesday, Nov. 16 at the Bridgeview Restaurant in Johnstown.
The meeting starts at noon.
Child-care study being conducted in Prescott
PRESCOTT In response to a community consultation held
in Prescott this past August, a short-term child-care needs study
is being conducted the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville.
A parent survey is being distributed throughout Prescott at
a number of locations including the Early Years Centre, Prescott
Public Library and Prescott Town Hall. Completed surveys can
also be returned to these locations. In addition, surveys can
be picked up and dropped off at Central and Boundary Street public
schools and St. Mark and St. Joseph Catholic schools.
The deadline for the survey is Dec. 2.
Save 9-1-1 for real emergencies, police remind public
PRESCOTT The improper use of 9-1-1 continues to be a
problem, according to the Ontario Provincial Police.
A review of 9-1-1 calls on four weekends chosen at random
indicated 92 per cent of those calls were non-emergencies or
pranks.
This is also the time of year when OPP communication centres
begin receiving calls from people seeking information on road
conditions. Some 9-1-1 calls have also been for that purpose.
The public is reminded to reserve 9-1-1 for emergency situations
in which there is an urgent need for police, fire or ambulance
service. By taking up the time of operators, prank or non-emergency
9-1-1 calls can result in emergency callers not getting the immediate
attention they need.
Constable Gary Sluytman, a community service officer with
the Grenville County OPP detachment, noted two officers are dispatched
when a 9-1-1 call (even if the caller hangs up) occurs. "We
treat it as a serious call," Sluytman said.
Intentional misuse of 9-1-1 can result in criminal charges
being filed.
For non-emergency cases in which police response is being
sought, call the OPP communication centre at 1-888-310-1122.
During office hours on weekdays, Grenville OPP in Prescott can
be reached at 925-4221.
Police also advise the public not to program 9-1-1 into phones.
Sluytman said a number of false emergency calls are received
because someone accidentally hits 9-1-1 on speed dial.
The Ministry of Transportation has a toll-free number (1-800-268-4686)
for road conditions; highway information is also posted on the
ministry's Web site (www.mto.gov.on.ca).
Ham it up and support Rotary
PRESCOTT The Rotary Club of Prescott is now accepting
orders for its ham gift packages.
The Christmas season offer includes a seven-lb. old-fashioned
ham which comes in a decorative package with a jar of specialty
mustard. Ham committee chairman Bill Putnam suggests the hams
can be used as employee gifts or as Christmas party prize draws.
Proceeds from the fourth annual sale of hams will help the
Rotary club with its community projects at home and internationally.
The deadline for orders is Dec. 1. To place an order, contact
any club member or call 925-5984 or 925-2693.
Mask man added to South Grenville's Wall of Fame
Frank Cipra makes NHL goalies more colourful
By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - As a graphic designer, Frank Cipra has outfitted
some of the National Hockey League's most illustrious goalies
with creative mask designs.
Now he's received recognition for his talents by being made
a member of South Grenville District High School's Wall of Fame,
which recognizes outstanding former students of the school.
"It is a great honour to receive this," stated Cipra
following the ceremony at South Grenville's commencement Saturday.
"I never thought I'd have the opportunity to accept something
like this."
Cipra graduated from the school in 1978.
He has been doing custom mask designs for "going on 15
years." He's done designs for NHL goalies such as Grant
Fuhr, Sean Burke and Curtis Joseph.
He has worked with sports equipment company Mission-Itech
since 1995, and works out of his studio based in his Brockville
home.
During the commencement ceremony, South Grenville teacher
Kevin Devaney stated "His creations are now on more than
70 per cent of goalie masks in the NHL."
Devaney added "I have known Frank for many years... played
hockey with him... He's an extremely talented, humble man."
Devaney also stated South Grenville continues to use the "Giant
head" which Cipra created as a student as a school logo.
After accepting the honour, Cipra thanked a number of former
teachers at the school.
"Thank you for the memories, good times at South Grenville,"
he said.
Cipra also gave credit to his wife Corrine, and his three
children Katrina, Joel and Ian.
"I cannot thank you enough," he said.
GRENVILLE COUNTY OPP TOWNSHIP NEWS BRIEFS
Cement water fountain breaks apart
AUGUSTA A large cement water fountain was damaged during
the overnight hours of last Monday and Tuesday (Oct. 31-Nov.
1). The fountain, located in the front yard of a County Road
2 residence just west of Prescott was overturned, causing it
to break apart. The value of the fountain is between $300 and
$500.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the investigating
officer, Constable Bisson, at Grenville County OPP (925-4221)
or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Game system taken in afternoon break-in
CARDINAL An XBox system and several related games were
taken from a Dundas Street residence last Tuesday afternoon.
It is believed the theft took place sometime between 1 and 3:30
pm. The residence had been left unsecured.
The value of the stolen items was unavailable. Constable Jones
is investigating.
Prescott band more Popular than ever
By Blake McKim, Journal Staff Writer
PRESCOTT - A lot of hard work is starting to pay off for a
local band.
For The Populars, which is made up of bassist/singer Meck
Myers, lead singer/guitarist Dave Klym and drummer Ernie Basiliadis,
the relative solitude of the Prescott area has been conducive
to the production of the songs and music for the group's first
album, The Vindicator LP.
The album was released this summer by independent record label
Kindling, and is being distributed by international label EMI.
"So far, sales are at the 'aluminum level,'" joked
Basiliadis. "That's one level above cardboard." He
added the album was recorded in the basement of the group's St.
Lawrence Street home.
They describe their music of the band as rock and roll. "Some
would say it's alternative," said Klym.
It's been quite a year for the band. Among other accomplishments,
The Populars had a triumphant three-day run last month on 106.9
The Bear's evening Rock Challenge for their song Hurry up
and Die.
In the process, they defeated songs by such established acts
as Blink 182 and Theory of a Deadman before finally being defeated
by one vote by the new Green Day tune Jesus of Suburbia.
The Populars also held a concert on Thursday Night at noted
Ottawa venue Zaphod Beeblebrox.
On Tuesday, the group was headed to a gig at renowned Toronto
club The Horseshoe Tavern, where many big-name acts have started
out. After that, the boys are headed off on a lengthy western
tour with dates in Manitoba, Alberta and British Columbia. "We
won't be back until Christmas time," added Basiliadis.
The band moved to the Prescott area three years ago from Nashville,
Tennessee. All three of the band members originally hail from
northern Alberta.
Basiliadis explained the decision to move to the town was
made because of a variety of factors, including the fact that
musician Mike Plume with whom they were working decided he wanted
to spend more time with his family. In addition, the band's visas
were expiring. "We had to regroup," Basiliadis added.
"When we came to Prescott, we knew nobody," said
Basiliadis. "We got lots of work done." This work included
perfecting a sound for the group, and writing and recording the
songs for their debut album.
Since they've been here, the guys have integrated themselves
into the community, playing with local soccer and hockey teams.
"It's a great small town," stated Basiliadis.
Another reason the group decided to come to Prescott is because
of the reasonable cost of living. Basiliadis said the group scored
a management contract with Management Trust out of Toronto (an
agency with which Canadian Idol judge Jake Gold is affiliated)
but realized it was "much too expensive" to live either
there or in Ottawa.
The band members have been playing together for about 10 years,
although have only been known as the Populars for the last three.
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