SD&G Scoop – Your Local Lowdown for July 3-10, 2025! 🎆🌲🌊

Happy July, SD&G! 🇨🇦✨

We’re still feeling the Canada Day magic this week — and what better way to kick off the latest edition of The Scoop than with a truly breathtaking capture from local photographer Mark Day , who once again worked his camera magic on the Cornwall waterfront. His shot of the Canada Day fireworks lighting up the night sky was nothing short of spectacular — a perfect blend of community pride, celebration, and small-town sparkle. Be sure to scroll down to see it in all its glory if you missed it!

Credit to Mark Day

But the celebrations don’t stop there — this week is packed with summer fun: from a cod dinner in Long Sault to the famous Williamstown Rodeo , Celtic sounds under the stars in Alexandria, and the SDG Turtles making another appearance at the Kinsmen Farmers’ Market. Whether you’re in the mood for music, local bites, or learning how to catch (and release) bats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Let’s dive into what’s happening this week across Cornwall and SD&G — and don’t forget to share your own community snapshots, stories, or favourite events. We love hearing from you!

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEK
🎉   What’s Happening This Week (July 3-10, 2025)

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

🔸   Fish & Fellowship – Cod Dinner at Christ Church Seaway
📅 Friday, July 4 | 🕔 Two seatings at 5:00 PM & 6:00 PM | 📍 2 Bethune Ave, Long Sault
Looking for a delicious way to kick off your weekend? Head over to Christ Church Seaway in Long Sault this Friday for a hearty New Zealand Cod & Chips dinner ! 🍽️🐟. For just $25, you'll be treated to a full plate featuring cod, fries, coleslaw, roll, baked beans, dessert, and a beverage — all served with small-town hospitality. There's also a licensed bar on site offering beer and wine (sold separately).
✨ Walk-ins are welcome, but seating is limited — call Joanne at 613-534-2878 to reserve your spot.
📦 Takeout is also available if you'd rather enjoy this feast from the comfort of home!

🔸   Williamstown Rodeo – A Brand New Wild Ride!
📅 Friday, July 4 & Saturday, July 5 | 🕓 Gates Open at 4:00 PM | 🐎 Rodeo Starts at 7:00 PM | 📍 Williamstown Fairgrounds, 19629 John Street, Williamstown
For the first time ever, the rodeo is coming to Williamstown!   🤠
Brought to you by Black Creek Rodeo Co. in partnership with the Williamstown Fair, this thrilling two-day event is packed with adrenaline-pumping action and unforgettable entertainment. Expect an evening of jaw-dropping events.
Whether you're a seasoned rodeo fan or just curious to see what all the hype is about, this is one of the summer’s biggest additions to the SD&G event calendar. Add in some live music under the stars and you’ve got a recipe for a rip-roaring good time.
🎟️ Get tickets: williamstownfair.ca/williamstown-rodeo

🔸   SDG Turtles at the Kinsmen Farmers’ Market – Learn, Help, Protect!
📅 Saturday, July 6 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 📍 Cornwall Kinsmen Farmers’ Market
They’re back! The amazing team at SDG Turtles is popping up at the Cornwall Kinsmen Farmers’ Market this Saturday — and they’re bringing along tons of turtle-friendly tips, free resources, and hands-on learning opportunities. This local volunteer group works tirelessly to protect and conserve turtle populations across SDG, and this is your chance to chat with them, learn about their work, and maybe even sign up to help! Whether you're a nature lover, a curious kid, or someone looking for a great volunteer opportunity, this is a booth worth visiting. Stop by, say hello, and make a difference — one turtle at a time!
🔗 Learn more: facebook.com/SDGTurtles

🔸   Bat Catch and Release – With Dr. Brian Hickey
📅 Thursday, July 10 | 🕖 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 📍 Springfield Farm | 🎟️ $20 per guest (includes pizza & refreshments)
Join local bat expert Dr. Brian Hickey from the River Institute for an evening that’s part science, part adventure, and entirely unforgettable! 🦇
Hosted at the scenic Springfield Farm, this hands-on “Bat Catch and Release” event offers guests a rare chance to learn about Southern Ontario’s bat population straight from the source. Dr. Hickey will guide attendees through the fascinating world of foraging behaviour, thermoregulation, and conservation — all while helping safely capture and release local bats in their natural habitat. 🍕 Pizza and refreshments are included in your ticket, so come hungry for food and knowledge.
👉 Get your tickets: Buy Here – Limited to 20 Guests

🎵   Where’s That Music Coming From (July 3-10, 2025)

🔸   The Riffs Rock Wood Brothers Brewing Co.
📅 Saturday, July 5 | 🕒 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | 📍 Wood Brothers Brewing Co., 2980 Wylie Rd, Glengarry
🎸 Free admission | Cold beer | Outdoor vibes
Get ready to sip, sing, and soak up the summer at Wood Brothers Brewing Co. this Saturday afternoon as The Riffs take the stage! This classic rock cover band — made up of five guys, one gal, and a whole lot of talent — brings a “let’s-just-have-fun” energy that’s perfect for a laid-back weekend outing. Bring your pals, grab a seat, and enjoy the show — this one’s got “perfect summer afternoon” written all over it.
🎸 Free admission | Cold beer | Outdoor vibes

🔸   Patio Night at Cornwall Golf & Country Club – Wings, Music & Summer Vibes!
📅 Tuesday, July 8 | 🕖 Evening | 📍 Cornwall Golf & Country Club, 6740 Sutherland Ave, Glen Walter
Patio Nights are back and better than ever at the Cornwall Golf & Country Club! Join the fun on Tuesday, July 8 for a relaxing summer evening featuring live music by Fork in the Road , delicious wing night specials , and a vibrant patio atmosphere. 🌅🎶🍗 . Whether you're a regular or just looking for a great night out, this is your chance to enjoy tasty food, cold drinks, and some toe-tapping acoustic favourites under the string lights. Everyone is welcome — members and non-members alike!
🪑 Reservations are recommended: Call 613-931-1122 ext. 229
👉 Perfect for a midweek catch-up with friends or a casual date night!

🔸   Celtic Sounds at the Grotto – Hestiaa in Concert
📅 Wednesday, July 9 | 🕖 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 📍 The Grotto, 92 Centre Street, Alexandria
Get ready for a magical midsummer evening of Celtic music under the open sky! 🎻🌿 The beloved Concerts at the Grotto series welcomes Hestiaa , a Montréal-based Celtic Irish duo known for their fierce fiddle, rhythmic guitar, and rich vocal harmonies.
The group features Rachel Campbell , originally from Glengarry, whose fiery fiddle playing and soaring voice pay tribute to the greats of Irish folk, and Brenna Logan , an Ireland-raised guitarist with a sound full of soul and spark.
🪑 Bring a lawn chair
💸 Admission is free (donations welcomed for Grotto upkeep)

WHERE TO GRAB A BITE
🍻   From Rapids to Rounds – Jack’s Pub Delivers

A reader’s recipe!

If you're ever near Williamstown and craving a spot that feels like a familiar hug with a cold pint in hand — Jack’s Pub is the place to be.

Tucked right in the heart of the village, Jack’s serves up that old-school pub charm we all know and love. Think friendly faces behind the bar, a cozy atmosphere that hasn’t changed much in the best way, and a space that’s perfect for catching up with old friends (or making a few new ones).

We especially have to tip our hats to Jack’s for being the go-to post-race hangout after this year’s Raisin River Canoe Race — paddlers and spectators packed the place for a well-earned celebration, and the energy was electric. 🍻 Wet shoes, big smiles, and the clinking of glasses — it was small-town spirit at its finest.

Whether you’re swinging in for a burger, a pint, or just some good conversation, Jack’s Pub keeps it simple, welcoming, and just right.

📍 Jack’s Pub – Williamstown, ON
🎯 Great pub grub | Local favourite | Canoe-race approved

Got a favourite spot for a bite or a post-adventure pint?
Let us know — we’d love to feature it in an upcoming edition!

THROWBACK CORNER
📸   Guess That Year!

Guess the year!

This week’s gem from the past takes us down Highway No. 2 in Summerstown, Ontario , where two charming old shops — both complete with classic gas pumps — stood proud on either side of the road.

Shared by local history buff Allan Benton, this black-and-white postcard view offers a rare glimpse of what road trips looked like in a quieter era. You can spot the Coca-Cola signage , Buckingham Cigarettes , and even a sign for A. Roy General Store & Service Station tucked beneath the towering trees.

We don’t have an official date on this photo, but that’s where you come in!

🧐   Can you guess what year this might be from?
Was it the 1940s? The 1950s? Or earlier? Take your best guess and share it with us on Facebook or by replying to this newsletter — we’d love to hear your thoughts or memories of this stretch of road.

Have an old Cornwall or SD&G photo with a story?
Send it to us at jared@sdgscoop.ca and you could be featured in an upcoming edition!

PET OF THE WEEK
🐶   Puppy Parade Brings Joy to Long-Term Care Residents

This week’s Pet of the Week is going to… all of them!

The residents and staff at Tsiionkwanonhso:te Long-Term Care were treated to a tail-waggingly adorable event last week — a full-blown Puppy Parade that brought smiles, cuddles, and more than a few happy tears.

Hosted with love and organization by Jenna Herne and the Akwesasne Animal Society, the event featured fluffy contestants showing off their best tricks, dance moves, and irresistible grins. 🐕 💃 Every dog was a winner, judged by the residents themselves in categories like Best Trick, Best Dancer, and Best Smile.

Dog owners paid a $10 entry fee, with all proceeds supporting the Akwesasne Animal Society, and residents whipped up homemade doggy treats for the occasion — talk about thoughtful!

From puppy pats to wagging tails and heartwarming moments, the event reminded everyone of the incredible connection between people and pets, especially in care environments.

👏 A huge round of a-paws to the furry stars of the day:
Bailey, Lenny, Sebastien, Teddy, Chewy, Reggie, Ares, Lambic, Abby, Athena, and Puppers — you truly made it a paws-itively perfect day !

📸 Check out the full gallery on the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Facebook page to see more photos from this fur-tastic event!

COMMUNITY WINS
🌲   A Legacy of Forest for Future Generations

This week’s Community Win is rooted — quite literally — in legacy, stewardship, and conservation.

SDG Counties has just received a generous donation of 27 acres of forested and agricultural land in South Glengarry from longtime local landowner Francis Chretien. The beautiful property, rich with Sugar Maple, Hemlock, White Pine, Red Oak, and Basswood, will now be protected and maintained through SDG Counties’ land donation program.

Of the 27 acres, 17 are forested and 10 are agricultural, with plans already in motion to enhance the site further — nearly 8,400 seedlings will be planted next year to grow the forest cover.

This land isn’t just dirt and trees — it’s family history. The Chretien property dates back to 1911 and has been used for maple syrup production, firewood, and timber by generations of the Chretien family. A maple shack from the early 1980s still stands as a reminder of its legacy.

Francis, a Kemptville College graduate and proud member of the Ontario Woodlot Association, sees this donation as a way to ensure the land’s story continues — not just for his family, but for the entire community.

👏 Hats off to Francis and to the SDG forestry team for their shared commitment to preserving the natural beauty of our region for years to come.

📩 Interested in leaving your own conservation legacy? Reach out to Philip Duncan, SDG Counties’ Forestry Coordinator at pduncan@sdgcounties.ca to learn more.

JUST FOR FUN
🎯 Games Corner – Just for Fun!

Here’s a watery twist for this week’s bit of SD&G trivia...

Did you know parts of our region are actually hiding underwater? 💦
Back in 1958, several villages — including Aultsville and Iroquois — were intentionally flooded to make way for the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway. Today, these “Lost Villages” lie beneath the surface of the river, offering some of the most unique dive sites in Canada.

🌊 Divers visiting the Long Sault Parkway can explore submerged roads, homes, and old structures, turning every dive into a fascinating trip through time. And one of the most popular underwater landmarks? Lock 21 — a submerged piece of the original Seaway lock system, sitting 35 to 60 feet below the surface!

So, here’s your challenge this week:

🧠   Trivia Time:
What was the main reason the Lost Villages were flooded in the 1950s?

A) To build hydroelectric dams
B) To create farmland
C) To widen the highway system
D) To construct the St. Lawrence Seaway

Scroll to the bottom of the newsletter for the answer — and let us know if you’ve ever visited or dived near the Lost Villages!

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 and let’s chat!

ESTATE & NEIGHBOURHOOD BUZZ
🏡 Affordable Comfort on Tollgate Road

This week, we’re spotlighting something a little different in the real estate round-up — an affordable gem that proves you don’t have to break the bank to find style, comfort, and charm in Cornwall!

Welcome to 2262 Tollgate Road W , a beautifully updated 2-storey end-unit townhouse listed at just $254,900 . Whether you're a first-time buyer, someone looking to downsize, or just want a low-maintenance home in a peaceful part of the city, this property hits the mark.

With 2 cozy bedrooms , a fully renovated bathroom , and tons of thoughtful upgrades , this home offers move-in-ready convenience with none of the renovation headaches. The main floor features fresh flooring, a sunny dining space with large windows, and a bright, modern kitchen that flows into a warm living room — complete with newer patio doors that open to your own private fenced-in backyard oasis . Bonus: the side access (thanks to the end-unit design) makes summer BBQs and gardening even easier.

Upstairs, the primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet and a cheater door to the stylish bath, giving you just the right touch of luxury at an affordable price point.

This one’s a real standout for anyone watching their budget but still wanting a place that feels like home. Affordable, low-maintenance, and full of charm — what more could you ask for?

📍   2262 Tollgate Road W
💲   $254,900
MLS# 40797767

Know someone looking to get into the market or simplify their living situation? This sweet little spot might be just the one!

JOBS AND CLASSIFIEDS
📢   Who is Hiring?

PAID FIREFIGHTER - Gananoque
📍 Thousand Islands, Brockville
The Gananoque Fire Service is recruiting Paid On-Call Firefighters. This is an excellent opportunity to become fully involved in your community, while earning a secondary income..
📧 Apply online: https://www.gananoque.ca/town-hall/human-resources/employment-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

RECREATION FACLITATOR - Township of South Glengarry
📍 South Glengarry
Are you passionate about community, recreation, and creating unforgettable experiences? We’re looking for a Recreation Facilitator to work alongside our amazing Rec Team!
📧 Apply online: https://www.southglengarry.com/municipal-services/careers/

CLOSING CALL
That’s a Wrap on This Week’s Scoop! 🎉

Thanks for spending a few minutes with us as we explored all the happenings, highlights, and heartwarming stories across SD&G. From the sizzle of the Canada Day fireworks to the whinny of the first Williamstown Rodeo, this community just keeps showing up in the best ways.

Special thanks to everyone who sent in recipes, trivia guesses, event tips, and kind words — we say it all the time, but it’s true: this newsletter is built by the community, for the community.

📷 Got a local photo, pet story, throwback gem, or a neighbour worth spotlighting?
Send it our way: jared@sdgscoop.ca

🧠 Oh — and if you were playing along with this week’s trivia…
If you guessed D) to construct the St. Lawerence Seaway then you are correct!

As always, if you enjoyed this edition of The Scoop , feel free to forward it to a friend, neighbour, or curious cousin.
And if you're not already subscribed — what are you waiting for?
👉 so you never miss a beat!

See you next week,
— The SD&G Scoop Team 🍁