SD&G Scoop – Your Local Lowdown for Nov 27 - Dec 4, 2025!

Hey there, Cornwall & SD&G crew!   👋

As we step into the cozy, sparkling month of December, we want to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a season filled with whatever brings you joy - whether that's family time, festive lights, quiet evenings, good food, or simply a well-earned nap by the fireplace.

Before we dive into this week’s stories, we want to send a heartfelt thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and feedback. Every message, correction, photo, and event you send our way is exactly what makes The Scoop feel like a true community effort. We couldn’t do this without you. ❤️

Speaking of corrections - a special shoutout to Étienne , who wrote in last week to help clear up the historic naming of Long Sault. Here’s their wonderfully detailed explanation:

Étienne, thank you for the linguistic deep dive - we love learning right along with all of you.

And lastly, a little housekeeping: The Scoop will be taking the next three weeks off to rest, recharge, and enjoy the holidays. We’ll be back in January with more local stories, events, history, and community goodness.

So pour yourself a warm drink, get comfy, and enjoy this week’s edition. From our family to yours - happy holidays! 🎁✨

WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS WEEK
🎉   What’s Happening This Week (Nov 27 - Dec 4, 2025)

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

🔸   Table Tennis & Ping Pong Night @ The Benson Centre
📅 Sunday, November 30 | 🕡 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM | 📍 Benson Centre (Automotive Room, main floor) | 💰 $2 drop-in
Looking for a fun and easy way to end your weekend? 🏓 Swing by the Benson Centre on Sunday evening for a few friendly rounds of table tennis - no experience required! Whether you’re a seasoned ping pong pro or just in it for some lighthearted fun, this drop-in session is open to everyone. Bring your best serve (and maybe your competitive spirit 😉 ) for just $2 per person . The group meets in the automotive room , first door on the left from the main entrance. For more info or to get in touch, you can contact Karen at karen.cambridge@hotmail.com or text 705-760-0115

🔸   Cardinal Vendor & Craft Sale – Holiday Market
📅   Saturday, November 29   | 🕙 10 AM – 2 PM | 📍   Cardinal Legion Branch 105, 105 Legion Way, Cardinal | 🎟️ Free entry, free hot chocolate & door prizes!
If you’re looking to soak up all the cozy holiday vibes, the Cardinal Festival Committee’s Vendor & Craft Sale is the perfect place to be this Saturday! ❄️ ✨ Stroll through a festive lineup of local vendors featuring handcrafted gifts, holiday décor, treats, and unique finds you won’t see anywhere else. Plus, FREE hot chocolate , door prizes , and a warm community atmosphere that’ll make you feel like you walked straight into a Christmas card. The event is supporting the South Grenville Food Bank , so feel free to bring along a non-perishable food item or personal care product if you can. It’s a simple way to spread a little extra cheer this season.
For vendor info, contact:
📞 Brody Fahrngruber – 613-349-4858
📧   cardinalfestivalcommittee@gmail.com

🔸   3rd Annual Charity Holiday Meal – Hosted by the Primeau Family & Friends
📅   Sunday, December 21 | 📍   Royal Canadian Legion Branch 297, Cornwall
Here’s a beautiful dose of holiday spirit happening right here in Cornwall. The Primeau family , along with friends and generous community members, is hosting their 3rd Annual Charity Holiday Meal - a completely free holiday dinner for individuals and families who may not otherwise have the option. This is one of those heartfelt community traditions that reminds us what the season is all about: sharing warmth, kindness, and a good meal with neighbours who could use a little extra joy. To help make this event possible, the organizers are currently accepting monetary donations to cover the cost of the food. Every bit helps, and every donation goes directly toward creating a welcoming holiday meal for someone in our community. If you’re able, consider supporting this incredible initiative, and let’s help make sure everyone in Cornwall gets to enjoy a warm, delicious holiday dinner this year. 🍽️ ✨

🔸   Museum Speaker Series – The Matriarchs of Hoople Creek
📅   Tuesday, December 10 | 🕖 7 PM | 📍   Schnitzels Restaurant – Back Room
If you love local history, powerful storytelling, or simply discovering the hidden chapters of SD&G’s past, this month’s Museum Speaker Series kickoff is right up your alley . Author John Sliter will be diving into the fascinating world of “The Matriarchs of the Hoople Creek Loyalists” - a collection of historical fiction stories inspired by seventeen remarkable women who settled along Hoople Creek after the American Revolution. These aren’t your average history lessons! John’s book brings these women to life by blending real historical facts with rich first-person narratives that make you feel like you’re hearing their stories straight from them. John will share what inspired him to write about these early settlers, how his research uncovered their incredible resilience, and how growing up in the Ingleside area - right near Hoople Creek - eventually led him on this storytelling journey. Grab a bite at Schnitzels , get comfy, and enjoy an evening filled with local heritage, captivating tales, and the first event of a fantastic winter speaker series. History buffs, this one’s for you!

🔸   A Christmas Carol – Dream Maker Young Peoples’ Theatre
📅   Saturday, Dec 13 – Shows at 11:00 AM & 1:00 PM | 📅   Sunday, Dec 14 – Show at 1:00 PM | 📍   L’Héritage Secondary School Theatre, 1111 Montreal Rd | 🎟️ $5 per ticket
Looking for the perfect family outing to kick off the holiday season? Dream Maker Young Peoples’ Theatre is bringing the classic A Christmas Carol to life right here in Cornwall - and trust us, this is the kind of heartwarming show that gives you all the festive feels. 🎄✨ This production is packed with Christmas spirit, memorable music, and the timeless message of kindness and generosity. At only $5 a ticket , it’s an incredibly affordable way to enjoy some local talent and get into the holiday mood. Bring the kids, bring the grandparents, or make it a friends-and-family event - it’s a treat for all ages! A big thank you to Lisa R. for sending this in - we love featuring community theatre and supporting young performers!
🎟️ Tickets can be purchased in advance at Melody Music (cash only). Don’t wait, these shows always sell quickly!

🎵   Where’s That Music Coming From (Nov 27 - Dec 4, 2025)

🔸   Music & Pizza Night at Rurban Brewing
📅   Friday, November 28 | 🕠 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | 📍   Rurban Brewing, 412 Cumberland St
If you love good tunes and good pizza (and honestly, who doesn’t?), then your Friday night plans are officially sorted! Rurban Brewing is hosting a cozy Music & Pizza Night , featuring live music by the always-entertaining Tommy Heatley and delicious pizza straight from Mannys . Expect cold beer, warm slices, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere - perfect for unwinding at the end of the week. Whether you’re a longtime Tommy Heatley fan or just looking for a low-key night out with friends, this is one of those simple pleasures that hits just right . Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready for great vibes! 🎸🍻

🍀   A Celtic Christmas with Hadrian’s Wall – Stone Crop Acres Winery & Vineyard
📅   Friday, December 6 | 📍   Stone Crop Acres Winery & Vineyard
🎟️ Limited tickets left — no door sales!
If you’re ready to kick off December with a little magic, a little music, and a whole lot of Celtic spirit, this one’s for you! Stone Crop Acres is hosting A Celtic Christmas featuring Hadrian’s Wall , and it’s shaping up to be one of the season’s standout events. 🎄✨ Expect high-energy Celtic rhythms, powerful vocals, toe-tapping instrumentals, and that warm holiday glow that only live music can bring. Hadrian’s Wall always puts on a fantastic show — and paired with the cozy atmosphere of Stone Crop Acres, you’re looking at a truly unforgettable night. But here’s the catch… only a few tickets remain , and there will be no tickets at the door . When they’re gone, they’re gone!
Grab yours now at: https://harmonyconcerts.ca/

SUPPORT THE SCOOP
☕ Keep the Good News Brewing

The SDG Scoop is a free, independent local newsletter built right here in SD&G - by locals, for locals. Each issue takes time, coffee, and a whole lot of love to put together.

If you enjoy reading the Scoop and want to help keep it going strong, you can buy us a coffee (or two!). Every little bit helps us share more good news, highlight local stories, and celebrate the best of our community.

Thanks for the support, friends!

THROWBACK CORNER
📸   Ponderosa Steak House, Cornwall, 1970s Edition!

This week’s trip down memory lane takes us straight to the iconic Ponderosa Steak House , a beloved blast from Cornwall’s past - and wow, does this photo deliver all the nostalgia. From the classic cars in the parking lot to the charming old Western-style storefront, it’s a snapshot that instantly transports you back to the 1970s .

But let’s be honest… the real star of the photo?
➡️ The steak dinner for only $2.09!

Imagine strolling into your favourite family restaurant today and paying just a couple of bucks for a full steak meal. Inflation could never .

For many longtime Cornwall residents, Ponderosa wasn’t just a place to eat — it was an outing, a treat, and a childhood memory all rolled into one. Whether it was those famous sizzling plates, the salad bar, or the cozy Western vibe, this spot definitely left its mark on local hearts (and stomachs).

Do you remember eating at Ponderosa? What was your go-to order? Let us know - we love hearing your memories! 🥩✨

PET OF THE WEEK
🐶   Help Bring This Sweet Boy Home

This week, we’re doing something a little different for our Pet of the Week. Instead of a spotlight on an adoptable furry friend, we’re sharing an urgent found pet alert from the Ontario SPCA SD&G Animal Centre and hoping our amazing community can help reunite this sweet boy with his family.

This handsome male dog was found on November 24th behind Nav Canada in Cornwall . He’s safe and being well cared for, but he is clearly someone’s beloved pet - just look at those eyes! ❤️

If you recognize him, or if you have any information that might help identify his owners, please call the Ontario SPCA SD&G at 613-936-0072 .

To reclaim a pet, owners will need:
• Valid photo ID
• Proof that the animal is yours (photos, identifying details, microchip, or vet records)
• A collar/leash or carrier for safe transport
• Applicable impound or licensing fees

Let’s spread the word and help this sweet guy get back home where he belongs. Our community has come together for animals before, and we know we can do it again. 🐶💛

COMMUNITY WINS
🏆 A Powerful Reminder of Community, Courage & Quick Action

Photo courtesy of The City of Cornwall

This week’s Community Wins highlights an extraordinary story of teamwork, training, and heroism right here in Cornwall.

On October 22, 26-year-old paramedic Ashan Gabrielpillai suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while off-duty at a local gym - a situation where every second truly matters. In an incredible stroke of fate, four off-duty colleagues happened to be there too, and immediately sprang into action.

Within moments, CPR was started. The gym’s AED—serviced just two days earlier—delivered two lifesaving shocks. An Advanced Care Paramedic crew, a student, and two Supervisors arrived quickly on scene, and thanks to the coordinated effort of everyone involved, Ashan survived and is now doing well.

On November 14, 10 individuals who played a direct role in his resuscitation were formally recognized with certificates and lightning bolt pins from the Regional Paramedic Program for Eastern Ontario.

Cornwall SDG Paramedic Services, Cornwall Fire Services, and Cornwall Police all contributed to this lifesaving outcome - a true cross-team effort that reminds us of the incredible people who serve our community every day.

👏 This is what courage, preparation, and community look like, and we are so grateful for them.

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!

JUST FOR FUN
🎯 Games Corner – Just for Fun!

Remember last week when we asked which SD&G township grew the fastest between the 2016 and 2021 census? If you guessed South Stormont , give yourself a gold star ⭐! With a population increase of 3.9% , South Stormont officially took the title of fastest-growing municipality in the United Counties during that period. Not too shabby!

Now let’s keep the fun going…

This Week’s Trivia Challenge:
SD&G is full of unique township mottos - some historic, some charming, some… wonderfully obscure.
Can you name the SD&G township whose motto is “A Good Place to Live”?

We’ll reveal the answer in the next edition of The Scoop!

ESTATE & NEIGHBOURHOOD BUZZ
🏡 Riverdale Beauty Hits the Market — And Wow, Is It Ever a Showstopper!

If you love scrolling through dreamy home listings (don’t worry, we do too!), then you’ll want to feast your eyes on 1733 Blakely Drive - a true gem in Cornwall’s sought-after Riverdale neighbourhood, listed at $999,900 .

This home isn’t just large… it’s luxuriously large, offering 3,240 sq. ft. of beautifully designed executive living space. From the moment you step into the grand foyer, complete with a sweeping staircase, you’re greeted with the kind of “oh wow” moment that only a handful of homes can deliver.

Inside, you’ll find a bright gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, designer lighting, a coffee bar, and a massive island made for hosting. Multiple living spaces make this home perfect for families of all sizes, including a vaulted-ceiling great room with gas fireplace, a formal dining room, and even a main-floor office for the work-from-home crowd.

Every corner has been thoughtfully updated - from elegant bathrooms to the stunning custom laundry/mudroom (yes, laundry rooms can be gorgeous!). The primary suite is its own retreat with a walk-in closet, spa-like ensuite, and lovely foyer overlook.

The professionally finished basement adds two oversized bedrooms, a huge rec room, and tons of storage - ideal for teens, in-laws, or guests.

Outside, the backyard is a serene paradise with lush perennial gardens and a stone patio perfect for relaxing or entertaining. And of course, you’re just a short stroll from Riverdale’s top schools, parks, and amenities.

✨   If you like space, style, and a neighbourhood with charm, this one’s definitely worth a look.

(And yes… the interior photos are as stunning as the listing promises!)

📌 View the listing: https://www.realtor.ca/real-estate/29043116/1733-blakely-drive-cornwall-717-cornwall

👉 Got a property for sale or rent in SD&G? Let us feature it in next week’s Scoop - the most-clicked section of the newsletter!

JOBS AND CLASSIFIEDS
📢   Who is Hiring?

YARD ASSOCIATE - Emard Bros Lumber
📍 Cornwall
Emard Bros. Lumber is currently seeking reliable and motivated yard associates to join our team in Cornwall, ON.
📧 Apply online: apply@emardlumber.ca

CUSTOMER SERVICE REP - MacEwen
📍 Hawkesbury
We’re seeking a highly organized, service-oriented individual to join our Hawkesbury team as a Customer Service Representative.
📧 Apply online: https://www.macewen.ca/careers

VOLUNTEER - Dundas County Hospice
📍 Dundas
Did you know you can make a real difference in someone’s life - no special skills required.
📧 Apply online: https://dundascountyhospice.ca/

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

And just like that, Scoop friends… we’ve reached the end of our final edition before our little holiday break! Thank you for spending another week (and another year!) with us - reading along, sending in events, sharing corrections, and helping us shine a light on all the wonderful things happening across SD&G. You truly make this community feel like a big, cozy small town.

As we sign off for the next three weeks to rest, recharge, and maybe eat more shortbread than we should, we want to wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and a peaceful, heart-warming end to the year. May your days be filled with good company, good food, and good memories.

Take care of yourselves, stay warm, and if you stumble across a fun event, a great photo, or a quirky bit of local history while we’re away - save it for us! We can’t wait to jump back in with fresh energy in January.

Us waddling into December…

📬 Not subscribed yet? Join the Scoop fam here: www.sdgscoop.ca

With gratitude,
The SD&G Scoop Team