SD&G Scoop – Your Local Lowdown for August 14-21, 2025!

Hey there, Cornwall & SD&G crew!   👋

From global flavours to head-banging beats, this week in SD&G is serving up something for every taste - literally and figuratively! 🍲🎸 Whether you’re sharing your favourite dish at the Tri-County Literacy Council’s multicultural potluck, taking a peek inside our region’s most fascinating historic spots with Doors Open Cornwall & SDG Counties, or rocking out at Cornwall Chaos to support Hospice Cornwall, there’s no shortage of ways to get out, connect, and make some memories.

We’ve also got open mic nights, free outdoor concerts, and a story about a local couple who’ve turned their love of music into a gift for the whole community. And if you’re more into quiet beauty, wait until you see the waterfront estate we stumbled upon while heading to dinner at the Blue Anchor - talk about a view!

So grab your calendar, a few friends, and maybe even a lawn chair. Let’s make this week one for the books!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEK
🎉   What’s Happening This Week (August 14-21, 2025)

📅 Here are a few events you won’t want to miss:

🔸   Celebrate Culture & Community at the Tri-County Literacy Council Potluck!
📅 Thursday, August 14 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 📍 Craftman’s Cafe, 35 Second St East, Cornwall | 📞 More info: 613-932-7161 ext. 106
You’re invited to a special multicultural potluck hosted by the Tri-County Literacy Council — and you won’t want to miss the chance to connect, share, and enjoy dishes from around the world! 🌍 ✨ This free event brings folks together to celebrate diversity, practice English, and build new friendships in a relaxed and welcoming setting. Bring a dish from your home country if you’d like to share — or just come by for the good company and conversation. Everyone is welcome! Whether you’re new to the area or a long-time local looking to meet new faces, this event is all about community, connection, and comfort food from across cultures. Let’s make some memories — and maybe discover a new favourite dish or two! 🥘 ❤️

🔸   Doors Open Cornwall & SDG Counties
📅 Saturday & Sunday, August 16–17 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 📍 Various Locations Across SDG & Cornwall | 🎟️ Free Admission
Get ready to explore the hidden gems of Cornwall & SDG Counties with Doors Open Ontario ! This exciting two-day event invites you to go behind the scenes at over 30 incredible locations — from historic homes and churches to museums, cultural centres, and architecturally unique buildings. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a fun (and free! ) family outing, this self-guided event is a chance to experience the region in a whole new way. Peek into places you’ve always wondered about or discover something totally new — all at your own pace.
🔗   Plan your weekend adventure and check the full list of locations here:
https://www.doorsopenontario.on.ca/pages/events/cornwall-and-sdg-counties

🔸   Save the Date: Laurencrest’s 1st Annual “Fall Classic” Golf Tournament!
📅 Friday, September 12 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 📍 Summerheights Golf Course, 1160 S Branch Rd, Cornwall | 🎟️ $500 per foursome
We’re sharing this one a little early because spots are limited — and trust us, you won’t want to miss it! Laurencrest Youth Services is hosting their 1st Annual Fall Classic Golf Tournament , and it’s shaping up to be a fantastic day on the greens for a great cause. Each foursome ticket includes 18 holes of golf (1 round), a shared cart, and post-game eats: all-dressed flatbread pizza and a shared order of chicken wings at the clubhouse. 🏌️‍♂️ 🍕 The day will also include 50/50 draws and raffle prizes — so even if your golf swing is a bit rusty, there are plenty of ways to win.
📧 For more info or to sponsor: contact Lisa Granger at lisa.granger@laurencrest.ca or visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/laurencrest-fall-classic-golf-tournament

🎵   Where’s That Music Coming From (Aug 14-21, 2025)

🔸   Open Mic & Karaoke Night at the Cornwall Legion
📅 Friday, August 15 | 🕖 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 📍 Royal Canadian Legion Br. 297, Cornwall | 🎟️ Fish & Chips 4:30 – 6:30 PM | $18
Looking for a fun and laid-back Friday night? Head over to the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 297 in Cornwall for an evening of music, laughter, and good eats! Whether you’ve got a guitar in hand and a song in your heart, or you’re ready to belt out your favourite karaoke tune, this event has your name on it. Hosted by Dan White of Classic Generation , the mic is open and the vibes are friendly. Fuel up before the show with a delicious Fish & Chips dinner served from 4:30 to 6:30 PM for just $18 — then stick around for the tunes from 7 to 10 PM .
🎶 Good music, great community, and a chance to shine — what more could you want on a Friday night? See you at the Legion!

🔸   Cornwall Chaos 2025 – Two Days of Loud for a Great Cause!
📅 August 16–17 | 🕛 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM (both days) | 📍 Benson Centre, Cornwall
🎟️ $25/day or $40/weekend | Kids 15 & under FREE with a paying adult
Calling all rockers, metalheads, and music lovers! 🤘 Cornwall Chaos is back for 2025 — and it’s shaping up to be bigger, louder, and more meaningful than ever. Held at the Benson Centre over two jam-packed days, this all-ages heavy music festival will feature a powerful lineup of local bands and artists — all coming together to raise money in support of Hospice Cornwall . Expect two full days of music from noon ‘til night, plus vendors, merch, food, and more to be announced. Whether you’re coming for the music, the cause, or the community, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.
Support local. Support Hospice. And rock out for a cause.
🎧 Learn more or get involved: cornwallchaos@gmail.com
🛍️ Merch: https://www.parrottee-apparel.ca/collections
🔗 Tickets: https://events.frontdoor.plus/host/219

🔸   Live Outdoor Concert: Backtracks at The Grotto
📅 Wednesday, August 20 | 🕖 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 📍 The Grotto, 92 Centre Street, Alexandria | 🎟️ Free Admission | 💺 Bring a lawn chair | 💵 Voluntary donations welcome
Looking for a relaxing mid-week evening filled with live music and community vibes? Head to The Grotto in Alexandria on Wednesday night to catch Backtracks live in concert! This talented local group will be performing an outdoor set from 7 to 8 PM, and everyone is welcome. It’s free to attend, family-friendly, and a great excuse to gather with neighbours, soak up some tunes, and enjoy the summer evening. Just don’t forget your lawn chair! 🎸🎷 Donations are appreciated — and help support more amazing local events like this.

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOUR
👋   The O’Neil’s: Teaching, Performing, and Amplifying the SD&G Sound

Amanda and Ryan, folks!

If you’ve ever been to a local event in SD&G and found yourself tapping your toes to the perfect live mix, there’s a good chance Amanda and Ryan O’Neil have had something to do with it.

A longtime friend and all-around hometown gem, Ryan is the kind of neighbour who not only follows his passion but finds meaningful ways to give back through it. Music is his heart, and community is his rhythm.

Together with his talented wife Amanda, a gifted singer and vocal coach, Ryan has built something truly special in Cornwall. The pair can often be found performing across local venues, but they’re also behind the scenes growing O'Neil Studios and Instructors Group , a hub of musical creativity and mentorship that describes itself as:

And they really mean for all . Whether it’s a teen picking up a guitar for the first time or an adult diving back into their love for vocals, O’Neil Studios is a safe, inspiring space to explore music. Ryan also offers tuning, repair, recording, and mixing, and is the go-to guy for live audio production at many of the events you already know and love in our region.

Beyond the studio, Ryan’s impact continues in our schools. In a full-circle moment that would make any teacher proud, he’s now teaching in some of the very same high school classrooms we once sat in together, helping a new generation of musicians find their voice (and maybe even a little confidence too).

And if that wasn’t enough? Ryan is also the lead organizer behind Cornwall Chaos , a two-day live music event happening this weekend at the Benson Centre. It's a celebration of local bands, and more importantly, it’s all in support of Hospice Cornwall , a cause close to many of our hearts.

🎟️ Grab your tickets and support this incredible event: Cornwall Chaos Tickets

Ryan, your passion, commitment, and generosity are making serious waves in the region (and not just the sound kind). We’re lucky to have you, and even luckier to call you a neighbour.

💬 Have someone in mind for a future Meet Your Neighbour feature? Reach out — we love sharing the good stories.

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
🛒 Small Businesses - We See You!

Want to get your local business in front of thousands of engaged Cornwall & SD&G readers who love supporting local?

We feature standout businesses, shops, and services that help make our community shine - and we’d love to spotlight you next!

👉 Interested? Reach out to us at https://www.sdgscoop.ca/contact or jared@sdgscoop.ca and let’s chat!

THROWBACK CORNER
📸   O’Shea’s Store – Williamstown’s General Merchant

Photo Credit: Library and Archives Canada

Here’s a nostalgic glimpse into Williamstown’s past, courtesy of a gem shared by local historian Sara Lauzon on Facebook. This photograph captures O’Shea’s Store , a local general merchant that once served as a community hub in the village. While the exact date of the photo is unknown, it’s estimated to have been taken in the early 1900s.

From the classic wooden façade to the old Coca-Cola sign proudly displayed on the side, this image is a reminder of the days when general stores weren’t just for groceries — they were a place to catch up on local news, swap stories, and connect with neighbours.

📸   Photo Credit: Library and Archives Canada

Do you remember hearing stories about O’Shea’s Store or have any old photographs of Williamstown businesses? We’d love to see and share them!

PET OF THE WEEK
🐶🐶   Let’s Help Them Find Their Way Home

This week, our hearts go out to not one, but two more furry friends who are lost and looking to be reunited with their families. If you recognize either of these dogs or know someone who might, please help spread the word!

Big Fluffy Fella

1. Big Fluffy Fella – Found Along Hwy 138

This gentle giant was found wandering near Highway 138 by Willy Allan Road on August 7 and has since been transported safely to a partner facility in the Township of Russell. He’s safe for now, but we know someone is surely missing this sweet face. If he looks familiar, please contact the Township of Russell at 613-443-3066 to help him find his way home.

Little Lady Pup

2. Little Lady Pup – Found at Lamoureux Park

This petite pup was found in Lamoureux Park on July 28 and is currently being cared for by the Ontario SPCA of SD&G. She’s a female chihuahua mix and looks like someone’s cherished companion. If you recognize her or have any info, please call the SPCA at 613-936-0072 .

To reclaim a pet from the SPCA, please be prepared with:

1️⃣ Valid photo ID
2️⃣ Proof of ownership (photos, vet records, microchip info)
3️⃣ A leash or carrier
4️⃣ Payment of applicable fees

Let’s work together to get these pups back where they belong — curled up safe and sound at home. 🐶 ❤️

If you ever spot a lost pet or need help reuniting one, don’t hesitate to reach out — and we’ll continue to do our part here at The Scoop.

COMMUNITY WINS
🏆 A Huge Thank You to the Glengarry Highland Games Volunteers

The Glengarry Highland Games wouldn’t be the incredible celebration it is without the dedication, passion, and hard work of its volunteers. From the moment the fairgrounds are prepped, often starting a month or two before the big weekend, to the countless hours given during the event itself, these individuals make it all possible.

Whether it’s ensuring competitors can shine, fiddlers have a stage, or guests can enjoy the beer tent and the Metcalfe Centre, volunteers are at the heart of every detail. Many have been involved for decades, some for over 70 years, carrying on a tradition that means so much to the community of Maxville and beyond.

As Betty Myers McIntosh, secretary of the Games for nearly two decades, shared on Facebook, the work doesn’t stop when the last kilt leaves the field. Planning for the next year begins almost immediately after the current Games wrap up, driven by a true passion for keeping this cherished tradition alive.

To every single volunteer, past, present, and future, thank you for your time, your energy, and your love for this event. You’re the reason the Games continue to bring joy, pride, and community spirit year after year.

JUST FOR FUN
🎯 Games Corner – Just for Fun!

Here’s a fun bit of Glengarry Highland Games history that’s sure to make you beam with local pride! On July 31, 2004, the MacCulloch School of Dance made history right here in Maxville by setting a Guinness World Record for the Largest Massed Performance of Highland and Step Dance .

An incredible 505 dancers and two musicians came together, performing in perfect harmony for 5 minutes and 13 seconds in a spectacular display of Celtic dance. It was a breathtaking moment that showcased not only the talent in our community but also the deep cultural roots and unity the Games inspire.

It’s a record that stands as a testament to the passion, dedication, and love for tradition that make the Glengarry Highland Games such a special part of our heritage.

ESTATE & NEIGHBOURHOOD BUZZ
🏡 Waterfront Luxury in South Glengarry

On our way to enjoy some patio season magic at the Blue Anchor, we found ourselves admiring the beautiful stretch of waterfront properties — and couldn’t resist peeking at a few listings. One in particular caught our eye, and it’s nothing short of spectacular.

📍   20214 County Rd 2, South Glengarry
💰 $2,750,000 | MLS® X12140444

This 3-acre waterfront estate near Lancaster is the perfect blend of refined elegance and natural beauty. With approximately 620’ of shoreline along Lake St. Francis, nearly 200’ of private docks, and sweeping views of the Adirondacks, this property is a dream for anyone who loves the water.

Inside, the 4,000 sq ft home — completely reimagined in 2022/2023 — offers chef’s kitchen perfection, spa-inspired bathrooms, and walls of windows that erase the boundary between indoors and out. From rich hardwood floors to a zoned HVAC system with a heat pump, every detail has been designed for both comfort and sophistication.

Step outside and you’ll find expansive stone patios, a captivating firepit, and a luxurious heated saltwater pool — all surrounded by immaculate landscaping. There’s even a bunkie and oversized double garage for guests or private retreat space.

Secluded by mature evergreens and accessed via a long driveway, this home is more than a property — it’s a lifestyle destination, balancing waterfront serenity with modern luxury.

👉 View the full listing here: Realtor.ca Link

JOBS AND CLASSIFIEDS
📢   Who is Hiring?

FULL TIME YARD WORKER - Emard Brothers
📍 Cornwall
Full time yard worker at the Cornwall location.
📧 Apply by emailing: apply@emardlumber.ca

PAID ON CALL FIREFIGHTERS - South Dundas
📍 South Dundas
Firefighters are essential to the emergency response network and play a key role in protecting our people. There is no experience required. We provide the training.
📧 Apply online: https://www.southdundas.com/municipal-centre/job-opportunities

PAINTER - Cornwall Painting Plus
📍 Cornwall
Cornwall Painting Plus is looking for an individual with painting experience or a willingness to learn.
📧 Apply online by completing the careers form: https://www.cornwallpainting.ca/careers

FACILITIES ATTENDANTS & OPERATORS - South Dundas
📍 South Dundas
If you're a team player who enjoys working with the public and helping to maintain our community spaces, we’d love to hear from you! Both positions are vital in keeping our arenas and recreational facilities safe, clean, and running smoothly.
📧 Apply online: https://www.northdundas.com/community-recreation/career-opportunities

CLOSING CALL
That’s a wrap for this week, friends! 👋

Whether you’re singing your heart out at open mic, exploring hidden gems during Doors Open, or cheering on local talent at Cornwall Chaos, we hope you get out there and soak up all the amazing things our community has to offer.

If you spot something worth sharing - a great event, a hidden local treasure, or just a feel-good moment - send it our way. We love hearing from you and shining a light on what makes SD&G such a special place to call home.

Until next time, keep supporting local, making memories, and saying hello to your neighbours.

📬 Not on our subscriber list yet? Join the fun and get The Scoop delivered right to your inbox: www.sdgscoop.ca

See you around the neighbourhood!
— The SD&G Scoop Team