SD&G Scoop – Your Local Lowdown for July 31 - Aug 7, 2025!

Hey there, Cornwall & SD&G crew!   👋

There’s something in the air this week, and no, it’s not just the smell of deep-fried fair food (though we fully support that too). It’s the buzz of tradition, music, and community pride as the Glengarry Highland Games take over Maxville! Whether you're heading out to cheer on the pipe bands, get swept up in a highland fling, or just sip a cold one under the summer sky, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.

But that’s not all stirring up excitement in SD&G...

With grocery prices still sky-high , there’s a bright green beacon of hope sprouting up in the form of Ark’s Harvest Garden Boxes . Fresh, local produce for as little as $3? Yes please! If you haven’t checked them out yet, swing by and support a beautiful grassroots mission that’s feeding both bellies and hearts.

And hey — we’re working on an upcoming Meet Your Neighbour feature with our very own Jared (yes, the guy behind The Scoop!). Got a question you’ve always wanted to ask him? Whether it’s about the newsletter, local life, or what kind of donut he orders at Timmies (important stuff), send it our way! You might see your question — and Jared’s answer — in an upcoming issue. 😊

Let’s dive in, neighbours — we’ve got a packed week of events, good eats, sweet stories, and reasons to feel proud of where we live. ❤️

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEK
🎉   What’s Happening This Week (July 31 - Aug 7, 2025)

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

🔸   Glengarry Highland Games: Tradition Comes Alive!
📅 Friday & Saturday, August 1-2 | 📍 Maxville Fairgrounds, Maxville, ON
After a year of anticipation, the iconic Glengarry Highland Games are finally back, ready to fill Maxville with the spirited sounds and vibrant energy of Scottish culture! 🎶 ❤️ With 53 pipe bands , 280 highland dancers , impressive heavyweight competitions, and the melodic performances of talented fiddlers, these two days promise an unforgettable showcase of tradition and competition. Bring your family, wear your tartan with pride, and celebrate this cherished local event that draws thousands of visitors from near and far every year. See you at the Games—kilts optional, but smiles guaranteed! 🥳
🔗 More info: https://www.glengarryhighlandgames.com/

🔸   Founders & Footpaths Historical Walking Tour – Williamstown
📅 Thursday, August 7 | 🕦 11:30 AM | 📍 Starts at Sir John Johnson Manor House, Williamstown | 🥤 Includes a complimentary drink at Jack’s Pub!
Step back in time and stroll through the heart of historic Williamstown with the new Founders & Footpaths Historical Walking Tour ! Hosted by the Sir John Johnson Manor House in partnership with the Glengarry, Nor’Westers & Loyalist Museum , this guided tour weaves through the village, sharing stories of early settlers, historic architecture, and the legacies that shaped the community. Led by enthusiastic student guides, each tour wraps up with a refreshing beverage at Jack’s Pub , one of the area’s beloved local spots.
🎟️ Tickets are limited, so be sure to reserve in advance!
🔗 More info: whereontariobegan.ca

🔸   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 (July 31 - Aug 7, 2025)

🔸   Pre-Games Party with The County Lads at The Atlantic Pub
📅 Thursday, July 31 | 🕗 8:00 PM | 📍 The Atlantic Pub, 36 McDougald St E, Alexandria
🎟️ $10 Cover | ☎️ 613-525-1882
Start your Glengarry Highland Games weekend off right with a high-energy night of live music and good vibes at The Atlantic Pub in Alexandria! The County Lads are bringing their signature mix of country, folk, and down-home charm to the stage for a pre-Games party you won't want to miss. Expect toe-tapping tunes, great local crowd energy, and the perfect atmosphere to kick off one of the most exciting weekends in the region. Whether you're a local or in town for the Games, come grab a pint and sing along - kilts optional, fun guaranteed! 🍻🎸

🔸   Live on the Patio: Spencer Scharf at Prescott Golf Club
📅 Friday, August 1 | 🕠 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM | 📍 Prescott Golf Club
Looking for the perfect way to ease into your weekend? Head to the Prescott Golf Club this Friday for an evening of live music under the open sky, featuring the incredibly talented Spencer Scharf . 🎸🎤 This free outdoor concert is happening on the patio and promises to be a crowd-pleaser — with great tunes, great food, and a beautiful setting. Madisons will be serving up food and drinks throughout the evening, so come hungry and ready to relax.
⛳ Heads-up: space is limited and this one will fill up fast, so call or email ahead to reserve a table!
🎟️ Free admission | ☎️ Reserve: 613-925-5370 ext. 2 or pgc@prescottgolfclub.ca

🔸   Tattoo Night at the Glengarry Highland Games
📅 Friday, August 1 | 🕡 Pre-show at 6:30 PM, Tattoo at 7:00 PM | 📍 Maxville Fairgrounds
Get ready for a night of roaring music and soaring dance as the Tattoo takes centre stage at the Glengarry Highland Games! Local legends Hadrian’s Wall will bring down the house with their electrifying blend of Celtic rock — mixing Scottish, Irish, and Canadian tradition with a modern edge. 🎸🇨🇦 Then watch as the iconic MacCulloch Dancers hit the infield with all the precision and passion you'd expect from 65 years of Highland dance excellence. Their steps tell stories, and every movement pulses with the spirit of Glengarry. It’s a celebration of culture, talent, and community — and one of the most anticipated evenings of the Games.
🔗 More info: https://www.glengarryhighlandgames.com/events/tattoo

🕺   21st Annual Munroe’s Mills Barn Dance
📅 Sunday, August 3 | 🕗 8:00 PM | 📍 Munroe’s Mills Barn
🎟️ BYOB | Chip Stand On Site | Suggested Donation: $20
Dust off your boots and grab your lawn chair — it’s time for a good ol’ fashioned barn dance at Munroe’s Mills! Back for its 21st year, this beloved summer tradition welcomes all ages for a night of live music, dancing, and community cheer under the twinkling lights of the barn rafters. This year’s lineup is a toe-tapping double feature with Hadrian’s Wall and Union Duke bringing their signature blend of Celtic rock, folk, and high-energy vibes that’ll have you on your feet all night long.
Bring your friends, your beverages, and your best two-step — the barn is calling! 🎻🌾🕺

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOUR
👋   The Strength of Our Communities

Way to go Cathy!

Sometimes in this section, we feature an artist, a small business owner, or a local volunteer — someone with a story to tell. But this week, we want to shine a light on something even simpler and maybe even more powerful: the kindness of neighbours.

When one local in the Maxville/Moose Creek/Alexandria area put out a call to help a family going through a tough time, the community didn’t hesitate. Groceries were dropped off, cars were loaded, and hearts were lifted — literally.

The parent who received the donation was waiting outside when the car pulled in. The moment the trunk opened, emotions overflowed — there were hugs, there were tears, and most of all, there was love.

This is what makes SD&G so special. It’s not just the big gestures or the grand events — it’s the quiet, powerful moments when neighbours show up for each other.

To everyone who helped — thank you. A special shout out to Cathy Davidson Grant for organizing this initiative! Whether you gave a little or a lot, you made a difference. ❤️

Have a story like this from your neighbourhood? We'd love to hear it and feature it in an upcoming issue.

WHERE TO GRAB A BITE
🥕   Fresh & Local from Ark’s Harvest Garden Boxes

If you’ve been feeling the pinch of rising grocery prices or just want to eat more fresh, local food, Ark’s Harvest is offering a beautiful solution — one garden box at a time. 🌱💚

They’ve just begun harvesting their first round of garden boxes , and let’s just say — folks are excited. These produce boxes are filled with fresh-picked goodies straight from the soil, grown with care and community in mind. Boxes start at only $3 , with pricing based on variety and size, and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Ark’s Harvest is more than just local produce — it’s a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to healthy food while fostering belonging and dignity. By picking up a garden box, you’re not only getting affordable, nutrient-rich food — you’re helping support a mission that feeds bodies and hearts alike.

🍉 Pro tip: be patient — harvest is just getting started. But it’s looking delicious already!

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
📸   Mustang Drive-In on Purcell Road, 1955

Remember the days of piling into the family car, grabbing popcorn from the snack stand, and settling in for a double-feature under the stars? 🌌✨

Here’s a vintage gem from 1955 of the old Mustang Drive-In Theatre on Purcell Road, where Cornwall families and teens gathered for countless summer nights filled with movie magic. From classic westerns to romantic flicks, many memories were made in front of that big screen.

Did you ever catch a movie at the Mustang? Or maybe you remember a different local drive-in from your youth? We’d love to hear your stories—and see any snapshots you might have tucked away!

Drop us a line and let’s keep those sweet drive-in memories alive. 🎞️ 🍿🚗

PET OF THE WEEK
🐶🐶   Two Found Friends in Need of a Way Home

his week, we’re featuring not one, but two pups currently in the care of the Ontario SPCA SD&G Animal Centre — and both are hoping for a happy reunion with their families. 💔🐶

Sweet Senior Girl (dog 1)

First up is this sweet senior girl (photo 1), found near the border on July 28. She’s gentle-eyed and clearly someone’s beloved companion. Her calm demeanor says she’s used to a cozy bed and familiar face — and we’re crossing our fingers someone recognizes her soon.

Handsome Boy (dog 2)

Also found on July 28, this handsome boy (photo 2) was picked up on Montreal Road . Full of energy and affection, he looks like he’s missing his people — and they’re probably missing him, too. 🖤

If you recognize either of these dogs or have any information about their owners, please contact the Ontario SPCA SD&G at 613-936-0072 .

To reclaim an animal, you’ll need:
1️⃣ Valid photo ID
2️⃣ Proof of ownership (photos, vet records, microchip info)
3️⃣ Collar & leash or pet carrier
4️⃣ Payment of any applicable impound/reclamation fees

Let’s help these two make their way back home. Please share and spread the word — someone out there is likely searching for them. ❤️ 🐾

COMMUNITY WINS
🏆 Big Milestone for the St. Lawrence River Institute!

Exciting news from our friends at the St. Lawrence River Institute —construction is officially underway on a brand-new environmental DNA laboratory right here in Cornwall! 🔬🌊

Thanks to generous funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation and the Ontario Research Fund , and with help from local contractor Perras DiStefano , this state-of-the-art facility is set to open new doors for environmental research and scientific training in our region.

The lab expansion is part of a broader investment involving key partnerships with Queen’s University , the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Environment Program , and other leading institutions, highlighting the incredible collaborative spirit within our community.

Congratulations to everyone at the River Institute—your work continues to make us proud! 🎉🌱

JUST FOR FUN
🎯 Games Corner – Just for Fun!

Here’s a little local trivia for you this week — and the timing couldn’t be better. Did you know the oldest annual fair in all of Canada is held right here in Williamstown ?

That’s right — the Williamstown Fair has been running since 1808 , making it 214 years old this summer. 🤯 From livestock and equestrian shows to midway rides, musical entertainment, and of course, deep-fried everything — this fair is a full-on celebration of rural life and local pride.

🎡 See you there, neighbours!

ESTATE & NEIGHBOURHOOD BUZZ
🏡 A Hobby Farm Dream in South Glengarry

💰 $1,150,000 | 📍 18561 County Road 19, South Glengarry, ON
MLS®: X12238178

If you’ve ever dreamed of wide-open space, horses in the paddock, and coffee on a country porch — this South Glengarry gem might just steal your heart.

Sitting on a sprawling 66 acres , this hobby farm is a rare find — fully equipped for horse lovers with a 14-stall barn , tack room , fenced paddock , and an older character barn with a hay mow for good measure. The land itself? A stunning mix of open fields and mature bush , ideal for trail rides, hobby farming, or simply soaking in the peace and quiet of country living.

At the centre of it all is a charming century home with wood-burning fireplaces, exposed beams, and cozy country vibes. The main floor boasts a bright, open-concept living space, a massive master suite, two bathrooms, an office/den, and main-floor laundry. Upstairs? Two more bathrooms, one being a private ensuite — so there's no shortage of space for family or guests.

Add in an inground pool , a covered front porch, an indoor and outdoor wood furnace , and a durable tin roof , and you’ve got a property that’s not just beautiful, but built for comfort year-round.

Whether you’re a hobby farmer, equestrian, or just looking to escape the city without going too far (you’re just minutes from Cornwall!), this listing checks all the boxes.

👉 View the listing: https://www.realtor.ca/real-estate/28505413/18561-county-rd-19-road-south-glengarry-723-south-glengarry-charlottenburgh-twp

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 clapping along at the Highland Games, dancing under the barn lights, or enjoying a fresh bite from Ark’s Harvest, we hope you find a moment to soak in what makes our region so special — the people, the places, and the stories we share.

Don’t forget — if you’ve got a neighbour worth celebrating, a pup that deserves a shout-out, or a local event you think the community should know about, we’re just an email away. And if you’ve got a burning question for Jared, now’s your chance — send it in and keep an eye out for his feature in an upcoming Meet Your Neighbour! 😉

Until next time, keep showing up for each other, supporting local, and enjoying every last drop of summer.

💌 Know someone who’d love The Scoop? Forward this their way or invite them to subscribe here:
👉 www.sdgscoop.ca

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