email: southdundasinbox@gmail.com
Three Chevy memories most popular . . .
Three of the most popular vehicles at the recent show to raise Cancer funds were Chevrolet products,
inventory from the "muscle car" years. Organizers of the annual event offered that the attendance
may have been hampered by the heat wave as both vehicle numbers and viewing patrons
did not match the all out barn-burner that jam-packed the area, including
the ball diamonds last season.
Setting up for a holiday on the water . . .
Early morning at the Morrisburg dock, only the passing gulls are making a sound . . .
Heat wave!!! How 'bout ice cream wave!!!
Locals and visitors alike know that when the heat wave sets in there's one place to go for relief.
The Docksyde at the Morrisburg waterfront!!!
Operated by the local Lions Club the Docksyde offers a variety of snack and meal selections
along with numerous flavours of everyone's favorite coolant. Ice cream!!!
And the profits are poured back into the community . . .
It's a win for everyone!!!!
"A real country bakery . . ."
Amanda's Country Bakery displaying the wonderful apple fritters served at Saturday's official opening,
South Dundas' newest commercial bakery. The fritters were described unanimously as "delicious" . . .
Saturday, July 12th - One never knows exactly what they may learn walking into a kitchen crowded with capable bakers. Although, should one ask, an answer is readily available. At times delivered, in part, accompanied by a generous performance of hand signals so as to emphasize importance.
Apparently there is a bakery. And then there is a BAKERY! Topping a BAKERY can only be accomplished by a fearless master accomplished in the measuring and mixing of ingredients. Those individuals who have been trained by generations of family lineage, have memorized and are versed in the long standing, biblical like versions of hand written recipes and instructions, corners torn and faded. Those who, at a moments notice, are capable of producing both sweet and savoury flavours, so delicious they are almost immediately and very near miraculously etched in the memories of the individual sampling such Godly kitchen creations.
Amanda's Country Bakery, welcome to South Dundas! There can never be enough home style, grandmother taught bakers in our opinion.
Amanda Smyth officially opened her all new Amanda's Country Bakery on Saturday, July 12. She invited the media, dignitaries and friends; and had her team of associates on duty. Sandwiches, cakes, cookies, pies, sugary delights and apple fritters that well could be recognized as the official dessert of Dundas County.
Amanda lets us know she's been studying her way around the kitchen for more than 30-years, feeding her husband and family of four kids.
"My 93-year-old Grandmother Marjorie taught me to cook," Amanda tells us, laughing while admitting, "Granda originally taught me to make Mac and Cheese so I could get my Girl Guide sleeve badge."
Volunteering in various kitchens started as a server at 11-years of age Amanda says, and from there it was restaurants, coffee shops, small and large eateries, learning everything about and around the kitchen along the way.
On Saturday, Amanda Smyth, supported in staging and presenting her official opening by her four children and her staff, says she realized what has been a life-long dream. And the attending group of friends, politicians and professionals who grazed through the selection platters were vocally unanimous in their support.
Amanda's Country Bakery is located at 11843 Orvill Road, Iroquois, ON. She can be reached for orders and information at 613-371-7959 or on the web at hello@amandascountrybakery.com
WDMH completes first breast biopsy procedure . . .
Wednesday, July 16th - Winchester District Memorial Hospital is proud to announce the successful completion of its first breast biopsy procedure, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to care for patients in our region. This new service is a vital step forward in reducing regional wait times and ensuring that patients receive timely care - closer to home.
“This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to enhancing care close to home,” says Kyle Jones, Clinical Manager of Diagnostic Imaging at WDMH, “We are incredibly proud of our dedicated team and grateful to our partners who helped make this possible.”
In thanking the Ottawa Hospital’s Breast imaging team for their onsite support, and the Hawkesbury and District General Hospital’s Diagnostic Team for allowing staff to shadow their site during the preparation phase, a spokesperson for Winchester District Memorial pointed out the collaboration and guidance were instrumental in launching the service.
“Introducing breast biopsy services at WDMH means our patients can access critical diagnostic care without the added stress of long travel or wait times. It’s a proud moment for our team and a win for our community.” announced Dr. Jean Seely, Radiologist Lead for Breast Imaging at Winchester.
The addition of breast biopsy services provides a more streamlined diagnostic plan, including initial screening, follow-up, biopsy and surgery. All under one roof.
Hon. Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security . . .
South Dundas council receives accolades . . .
The Honourable Nolan Quinn, South Dundas Mayor and Council and South Dundas'
Director of Facilities, Parks and Recreation are all smiles concerning the most recent
announcement of a $1 million revitalization of Morrisburg's aging arena. Left to Right,
Councillors Tom Smyth, Danielle Ward; Deputy Mayor Marc St. Pierre; MPP Nolan Quinn;
Mayor Jason Broad; Councillor Cole Veinotte and Director David Jansen.
Friday, July 12th - Little time for Stormont, Dundas and South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn (Hon. Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security) to capture the attention of a small audience that had gathered at Morrisburg Arena on Bank Street. Minister Quinn pointed out that his third visit to South Dundas over the past two weeks to announce major funding investments and projects in eastern Ontario was due in part to the exceptional determination and organization of the local council and their employee team. The popular Conservative MPP credited South Dundas' Director of Facilities, Parks and Recreation, David Jansen for his work in organizing a detailed and successful application for the $477,181 he was delivering on this morning.
Quinn said the provincial government's $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund was a province-wide initiative to provide help in revitalizing facilities, to grow the economies and promote healthy living across Ontario. He added that applications from around the province for more than a billion dollars had been submitted and South Dundas had been selected in large part because of the detailed application Jansen had presented to revitalize the arena here.
"Whether it's enjoying a public skate or catching a local hockey game with the family, the Morrisburg Arena is a cornerstone of our community," Quinn said, continuing, "With the support of our government this investment will improve the accessibility to the arena so that Stormont/Dundas/South Glengarry residents can stay healthy and keep making long-lasting memories with friends and family well into the future."
The $1,000,000 project will begin in April 2026 and is projected for completion early in the fall. The entrance to the arena will be at ice-level and the placement of the entrance ramp will be on the east end of the building. Inside a washroom and a dressing room will be reconstructed. The current location of the Sports Shop will shoulder an additional dressing room.
"At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support organizations focused on delivering better services, including creating opportunities for young people," Quinn said. "With investments in infrastructure like these we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthiening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy."
South Dundas' Mayor Jason Broad weaved a welcome and thank you to MPP Quinn, chuckling as he explained that he had been on the podium and photographed with the Honourable Member from Queen's Park a few times over the past few weeks, accepting investments from the Ontario Conservatives in building a strong and expanding economy. Earlier in July Quinn, along with Housing Minister Rob Flack, had been on hand in officially opening Morris Glen and 17-news housing units in South Dundas.
Just a few days previous to that announcement, MPP Quinn had been part of the provincial government's team announcing a massive an $80-million investment in developing modernized infrastructure, water and waste-water facilities through the St. Lawrence Parks with possibilities for surrounding communities, employment and business opportunities.
Motioning that a group photo was in order Mayor Broad laughed and said he was happy to get in on any group photo celebrating investments in the community he had promised to help build when he was elected.
"It my job!" South Dundas' popular Mayor said.
Housing Minister Rob Flack officially opens new Morris Glen . . .
17-new units brighten rental market . . .
South Dundas Mayor Jason Broad offers welcoming and supportive remarks at the official opening of Morris Glen . . .
"The opening of Morris Glen marks a pivotal moment for housing in Morrisburg and across South Dundas," announced MPP Nolan Quinn on Wednesday during the official opening of seventeen new living units at the Norris Glen affordable housing complex in Morrisburg.
"Through this critical partnership, our government is ensuring access to safe and affordable homes so that families and residents in SDSG can have a place to build strong, happy, and healthy futures." Quinn added.
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 - The City of Cornwall, in partnership with the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry and the Government of Ontario, announced the official opening of Morris Glen, a new affordable-housing development in Morrisburg.
"Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home, and Morris Glen helps make that a reality for more individuals and families in the region. Residents have begun moving into their new homes, marking a meaningful milestone." noted the hand-out release composed by City of Cornwall staff.
Ontario's Minister of Housing, the Hon. Rob Flack, (photo right) who also attended the ribbon cutting ceremony said, “We are proud to support incredible partners like the City of Cornwall and the United Counties of Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry with their efforts to develop affordable housing in their region. Morris Glen will offer dignity and independence to the many residents who will soon call it home, positioning them for life-long success."
The 17-unit development includes 12 rent-geared-to-income units and five market-rate units. This mix supports a diverse group of residents and ensures the development reflects the needs of the broader community. Located near essential amenities such as grocery stores and medical services, Morris Glen offers safe and stable housing for individuals and families in need. The building also includes four barrier-free units, ensuring people with mobility challenges can live comfortably and independently.
“Morris Glen is more than a building; it’s a reflection of our community’s values. We’ve worked hard to ensure this project meets the unique needs of Morrisburg and South Dundas, and I’m proud to see new residents moving into safe, quality homes they can afford," South Dundas Mayor Jason Broad added to there accolades, "This is local action with lasting impact, and it sets the tone for how we tackle housing challenges moving forward.”
The project was made possible through an investment of nearly $1.7 million from the Government of Ontario’s Social Services Relief Fund, which supports longer-term housing solutions for people at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
The City of Cornwall manages the administration of affordable housing across the region and leads the implementation of a 10-year housing and homelessness plan that guides the region’s housing priorities. In 2024, a Community Housing Development Plan was completed to identify opportunities on municipally held land across SDG Counties, creating a clear roadmap for future growth.
The opening of Morris Glen represents an important milestone in the region’s housing strategy. With housing pressures rising across Ontario, the City of Cornwall and SDG Counties are committed to collaborating on practical, people-centered solutions that expand access to affordable and accessible homes. While the need remains urgent, Morris Glen is a key step in a long-term effort to build a housing system that works for everyone.
South Mountain group kicks in $10,000 . . .
With a backdrop of the construction at Dundas Manor Dundas Erin Kapcala, WDMH Foundation
Manager of Major & Planned Giving accepts a cheque from the IOOF Lodge #428 members:
Richard Pickard, Recording Secretary; Bill Williams, Treasurer; Victor Hughes, Financial
Secretary; Ron Derraugh, Noble Grand; John Pinhey, Vice Grand; Richard Gilmer, Warden
Tuesday, July 8th - South Mountain's IOOF Lodge has stepped up to support build the New Dundas Manor. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows Lodge #428 presented a generous donation of $10,000 to the WDMH Foundation to support the redevelopment of the new Dundas Manor, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to community service and charitable giving.
The donation will support the fundraising campaign to build and furnish the new home, helping to reduce the last $3.5 million needed to reach the $18 million community goal.
“We are honored to contribute to such an important cause,” said Ron Derraugh, Noble Grand of the local historic lodge founded in 1911.
“As Odd Fellows, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. This donation reflects our mission to promote friendship, love, and truth through tangible acts of kindness and serving our community.”
“We are incredibly grateful for the IOOF’s support,” relied Erin Kapcala, Manager of Major & Planned Giving at the WDMH Foundation. “This contribution will help us fulfill the dream of bringing this beautiful new home to Dundas County and the surrounding community.”
The IOOF has a rich history of philanthropy, dating back to its founding in the 19th century. Through donations, volunteerism, and community engagement, the organization continues to uphold its values and support those in need.
Founded in England in 1730, and brought to North America in 1819, the Oddfellows received their name because being focused on mutual aid and social welfare went against the norms of the time. Their commitment was to educate the orphan, visit the sick, look after the widowed, bury the dead, and relieve the distressed.
Since June 2024, IOOF Lodge #428 has provided over $17,500 in donations to the community. The WDMH Foundation is grateful to be considered a recipient of that generosity.
Candace Latulippe drives Aid for Aiden . . .
Candace Latulippe and award winning Canadian (South Mountain) Cory M Coons
step up for a quick photo at the Aid for Aiden Chinese Dinner . . .
Most eastern Ontario communities would be thrilled to boast a resident so driven to help others as is Iroquois' own Candace Latulippe. Deemed "the Mayor of Iroquois" for many reasons, Candace is truly a leader when it comes to community support and generosity.
Operating from within her time consuming River Rat Treasures outlet in the Iroquois mall, (which it is rumoured also houses a coiff salon and travel agency 'in the back'), Candace most recently called on a host of helpers, including the Iroquois Branch 370 Royal Canadian Legion, award winning singer/song writer Cory M Coons and accompaniment Kevin Eamon, the 1st Williamsburg Scout Pack and a number of supportive individuals to take part in staging a fund-raiser for Aiden Adams, a resident youth undergoing a liver transplant in Toronto.
Aiden is an active 17 year old who has struggled with Maple Syrup Urine Disease since birth. Medical staff at Ottawa's CHEO, in spite of a long term effort to keep the disease in check, have determined they can no longer do so without a liver transplant. Aiden recently underwent the transplant and is scheduled for two months of recovery in Toronto.
In an effort to assist Aiden and his parents Joel and Megan Adams, with expenses and loss of income during and following Aiden's surgery, Latulippe and friends, like Cory Coons and his pal Kevin Eamon, staged a Chinese Dinner and evening at the Iroquois Legion that packed a full house of like generous South Dundas folks. And raised some $9,000+ (early count).
Anyone interested in topping up the fund raiser need only contact Candace at River Rat Treasures at 7 Plaza Dr, Iroquois, or by phone at 613) 652-4891. Any support will be appreciated by Aiden and his family. And Candace too!!!
Landmark injection for St. Lawrence Parks Commission . . .
$82 million - South Dundas & Stormont . . .
Sharing a little South Dundas wisdom with Premier Ford's team members . . .
On Friday, July 4th, 2025 at Mille Roche Beach on the Long Sault Parkway we snapped the above photo of Ontario's Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, Stan Cho and Stormont/Dundas/South Glengarry MPP Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. At that moment they were trading pleasantries with South Dundas' Deputy Mayor, Marc St. Pierre and Mayor, Jason Broad. The Ford government officials had moments before delivered an abundance of reasons to smile and a huge serving of easily as appetizing food for thought. They attended to announce a long awaited provincial monetary injection for the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, creating a potentially endless run of 'off-shoot" benefits for South Dundas and South Stormont.
($82,000,000) Eighty-two million dollars in infrastructure investment over the coming four years intended to modernize the St. Lawrence Park's septic, washrooms, and drinking water facilities. The announced investment is a continuation of the province's revitalization project. And the possibilities, as the two on the left in the above photo are quite possibly thinking, really could be endless!
"This is a landmark investment in the future of our region’s tourism and environment. The provincial government’s $82.2 million commitment will not only enhance visitor experiences at Upper Canada Village, our beaches, and campgrounds," Mayor Broad announced enthusiastically, "It will also strengthen vital infrastructure for communities like South Dundas. Connecting the St. Lawrence Park's facilities to municipal water and wastewater systems is a forward-thinking move that supports public health, environmental stewardship, and long-term economic sustainability."
The funding is currently intended to provide municipal water and waste-water services in South Stormont and South Dundas in and around the St. Lawrence Parks properties, including campgrounds, Upper Canada Village, Upper Canada Golf Course, and any future developments in the planning stages.
Government House Leader and MPP for Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes Steve Clark said, “This is a big announcement. It moves the dial. For years we have lobbied governments to look at the infrastructure challenges for the SLPC. This announcement builds on the successes on the Brown’s Bay Beach and revitalizes it.”
As Minister Quinn pointed out, "These parks are woven into the fabric of our communities." Quinn then pointed out the investments were not only about strengthening and protecting Ontario's tourism operations today, they were about planning for the future.
"This investment will connect more than 27km of South Dundas' east-west corridor with water. Iroquois to Upper Canada Village," Mayor Jason Broad announced. "A new connecting line east of Morrisburg opens a magnitude of possibilities. The timing allows us to connect with our Strategic Plan of honouring our hast, embrace our future and at the same time sustain dynamic growth by supporting existing businesses."
"I would like to thank the Honorable Minister Stan Cho, the Honorable Minister Nolan Quinn and House Leader MPP Steve Clark for this wonderful announcement." Broad said, adding, "And thank you to Parks Commission Hollee Kew and the board of directors for their vision."
Fuel efficient driving pool . . . ?
At first glance driving by Matilda Hall it appeared that the labourers had all ridden their bikes
to work. However, we soon discovered that the Happy Face Nursery School, normally operating
out of South Mountain, was using the facility while their home building was under renovation.
And the good news is that we also learned the school currently does have openings.
Anyone interested can contact Happy Face Nursery School (South Mountain) at the
following: 3045 County Rd 1, South Mountain, ON K0E 1W0 - Phone: (613) 989-3248
Dale and Lois Keyes . . .
Celebrating the importance of giving . . .
At the photo-op celebrating the start-up of the new CT Scanner at Winchester District Memorial Hospital,
Dale Keyes recalled, “My father always taught us that it was far better to give than to receive.”
Wednesday, July 2nd - Five years ago, at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, Dale and Lois Keyes came to Winchester District Memorial Hospital to make what has turned out to be an incredible donation. This couple wanted to contribute to something significant that the hospital needed and presented a $1,000,000 donation that would make possible the purchase of a new CT Scanner.
Having roots in the area, both Lois and Dale have strong connections to the locale, and the outcome of their generous gift will have positive impacts on the community for many years to come.
“We encourage everyone in our community to support the hospital, not only financially, but also with their positive comments and appreciation for the care they receive,” shared Dale, adding, “We are very fortunate to have this wonderful hospital in our community”.
A CT scanner is used to diagnose many types of diseases or trauma injuries. This state-of-the-art equipment will provide high quality images using a lower dose of radiation. The unit is faster and more efficient than the hospital's previous model, and it provides more patient for more comfort through the process. More than 9000 CT scans are produced annually at Winchester District Memorial Hospital.
“In 2009, WDMH was possibly the first small hospital in Ontario to have a CT machine, and it has lasted nearly seven years past its normal lifespan,” indicated Cholly Boland, Chief Executive Officer.
“We could not have purchased this essential equipment without the support of the Keyes family and our entire community.”
Led by Kyle Jones, Clinical Manager of the Diagnostic Imaging Department, the procurement of equipment is a detail-oriented process.
“There were many people involved in this project, and I am so proud of everyone for getting us up and running so quickly,” Kyle commented.
Having grown up close to the local hospital both Lois and Dale have a strong connection to the area, and this generous gift will have a positive impact on their community for many years to come.
“We encourage everyone in our community to support the hospital, not only financially, but also with their positive comments and appreciation for the care they receive,” shared Dale.
“This is an extraordinary gift that will change lives and save lives. On behalf of every patient and family who will feel the impact of this gift, thank you for making a difference!" noted Cindy Ault Peters, Executive Director, WDMH Foundation.
Hilarious Cottage Country Comedy at Upper Canada Playhouse . . .
Curtain rises this week thru July 27th . . .
Monday, June 30th - Hot on the heels of The Playhouse’s hit season opener A Woman’s Love List is the must-see comedy The Sweet Delilah Swim Club running Thursday, July 3rd thru Sunday, July 2727th. Five women who met years ago on their college swim team set aside a long weekend every August to recharge their friendships by getting together at a cottage called The Sweet Delilah.
Audiences will join these unforgettable ladies on four of these reunions spanning 33 years from 1992 to 2025 as they catch up, laugh and meddle in each other’s lives free from husbands, kids and jobs. Throughout the years they share the good times and the bad, their struggles and their victories and opinions on everything from parenting, marriage and divorce to men, sex and the challenges of aging. It’s a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever.
Director Donnie Bowes couldn’t be happier to have five dynamite actresses playing these very funny ladies and feels guilty having such a fun time at rehearsal.
"It almost doesn’t seem like work. It's so engaging and entertaining seeing these colourful characters come to life by these wonderful and talented actors." Bowes points out, adding, "The play was written by the team of Jones, Hope and Wooten and, considering they also wrote episodes of the TV hit The Golden Girls, audiences can expect lots of humour, heart and memorable characters."
The cast of The Sweet Delilah Swim Club features some familiar and new faces. Viviana Zarrillo plays Sheree Hollinger, the hyper-organized team leader with boundless energy who is never without her to-do list. Zarrillo was seen in such Playhouse productions as Moving In, Ethan Claymore’s Christmas, Same Time Next Year, Plaza Suite, Halfway There, I Do, I Do, Last of the Red Hot Lovers and Whose Wives Are They Anyway. She has also appeared at Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Orillia Opera House, Magnus Theatre, National Arts Centre and Shaw Festival.
AnnaMarie Lea plays Lexie Richards, a delightfully vain event planner who keeps her cosmetic surgeon on speed dial and can be counted on to share entertaining tales of her romantic exploits. Lea has been seen in several Playhouse comedies including Wally’s Café, Don’t Dress For Dinner, The Cemetery Club and Drinking Alone as well as last season’s Perfect Wedding. She is also the producer of Cow Patti Theatre in Alberta. Her film work includes Miracle in Texas, Root of the Problem, Me and Mr. Christmas and the soon to be released Reminders of Him for Universal Pictures.
Susan Greenfield plays Dinah Grayson, a wise-cracking and successful lawyer who excels at everything except romance. Greenfield has graced the Playhouse stage over many seasons including last season’s Bedtime Stories and previously in Lend Me A Tenor, Wally’s Café, Drinking Alone and Looking to name a few. She has also appeared at such theatres as Charlottetown Festival, Drayton Entertainment and Cow Patti Theatre Company.
Debra Hale is the perky and naïve Jeri Neal McFeeley who has been a nun for many years but always makes life choices that surprise her friends. Hale has appeared in several Playhouse productions over the years including Lunenburg and Halfway There and many hilarious farces. She has also been seen at Theatre Orangeville, 1000 Island Playhouse and Orillia Opera House. She can also soon be seen in This Child Is Mine for Lifetime and Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen for Netflix.
Playing school teacher Vernadette Simms is Playhouse newcomer Andrea Risk. Simms is a hard luck case who married early, has been followed by a dark cloud all her life but faces her bad luck with a wicked sense of humour. Risk has over eighty theatre credits to her name and has appeared at the Charlottetown Festival in over one thousand performances of Shear Madness. She also performed at Stage West Mississauga, Calgary’s Vertigo Theatre and Drayton Entertainment.
The Sweet Delilah Swim Club gets a clever and wonderful set design by Sean Free that really ‘sets the stage’ for this entertaining story to unfold.
"I’ve wanted to do this show for several years," says Bowes. "To be able to do it with such a talented cast is the icing on the cake. Can’t wait for audiences to enjoy the laughter and unforgettable characters! Our summer season has gotten off to a great start. This show will keep the comedy ball rolling big time!"
The Sweet Delilah Swim Club
Thursday, July 3rd - Sunday, July 27th
Shows TUE; WED; THU; FRI; SAT; SUN: 2:00 PM
THU; FRI: 7:30 PM
For Flex Passes, single tickets and more information contact:
613-543-3713 / 877-550-3650
Fatal collision in near Finch under investigation . . .
Tuesday, July 15 - The Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating a fatal collision that occurred near the community of Finch in North Stormont.
On Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at approximately 4:20 p.m., SD&G OPP was dispatched to a head-on collision between a tractor-trailer and a pick-up truck on County Road 43 between MacMillan Road and St. Luke's Road. Despite lifesaving efforts from bystanders and EMS, the driver of the pick-up truck, a 46-year-old from Kemptville, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured.
OPP Technical Collision Investigators and a Reconstructionist attended the scene to assist with the investigation, which remains ongoing. County Road 43 was closed for several hours and has since re-opened.
Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or dashcam footage from the area at the time of the incident is asked to contact the SD&G OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
Impaired drivers continue to plague
Eastern Ontario . . .
Tuesday, July 14th - A disturbing number of drivers across eastern Ontario continue to get behind the wheel after drinking or consuming drugs. As of the end of June, Ontario Provincial Police officers across the region have investigated 575 impaired driving incidents. While that is down slight from the same period in 2024, it is still a cause for concern.
"One impaired driver is one too many. It is widely known impaired driving can have a deadly impact, affecting not only that driver, but potentially others on the roads and highways, innocent families." said Inspector Josh Kingsley, OPP East Region Traffic & Marine Manager
Through the first half of 2025, the OPP investigated 22-fatal collisions on eastern Ontario roads, resulting in the deaths of 25-people. Impaired driving played a role in five of those deaths.
OPP officers across eastern Ontario are on the roads 24/7, looking for those who engage in dangerous driving habits like impaired driving. If you suspect someone if driving impaired, call 9-1-1. You could help save lives.
Ottawa resident charged in online child sexual exploitation investigation . . .
Wednesday, July 9th - The Ontario Provincial Police Child Sexual Exploitation Unit, with the assistance of the OPP Digital Forensics Unit and the Ottawa Police Service, has arrested and charged an Ottawa resident following an online child sexual exploitation investigation.
On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, police executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Ottawa and seized a quantity of electronic devices. As a result of the investigation, Sam PORGHAVAMI, 38 years of age from Ottawa, was arrested and charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
• Make arrangement to commit a sexual offence against a person under 16 years of age, section 172.2(1) - two counts
• Make child pornography, section 163.1(2)
The accused was released from custody following a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Ottawa on Friday, July 25, 2025.
"Protecting children from exploitation is not just a responsibility - it is a moral imperative. Each investigation reflects our strong commitment to safeguarding their right to safety and ensuring that offenders are held accountable." noted Detective Staff Sergeant Chris Barkey, OPP CSEU
The safety and protection of children is a top priority for the OPP, who remain committed to identifying and pursuing individuals who use technology to exploit them. Parents are encouraged to help protect their children from online sexual exploitation by speaking with their children regarding internet safety. Parents can find resources to assist them at cybertip.ca or protectchildren.ca.
Anyone with any new information online child exploitation may contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca, where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000. Information can also be reported through cybertip.ca.
Safety reminder following numerous marine incidents . . .
Tuesday, July 15th - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding those using the province's waterways this summer to stay safe. This weekend a large number of marine incidents were reported across the province. OPP members from various detachments were called out to multiple incidents on OPP patrolled waterways, and police are urging the public to take measures to prevent tragedy.
Boaters and paddlers are reminded that alcohol or drug impairment, operator inexperience and not wearing a lifejacket, are among contributing factors in marine injuries and deaths. In incidents investigated by OPP, falling overboard and capsized vessels remain the leading causes of death each year. Lifejackets should be worn by everyone in the boat. If you are rendered unconscious, a lifejacket will keep your head above water.
For a safe and enjoyable boating season, always be well prepared, check the weather forecast, and make sure your vessel is functioning and equipped. Swimmers should never venture into the water alone, children should be supervised closely, and swimmers should know their limits and obey posted signs and warnings.
The OPP recommends all vessel owners/operators familiarize themselves with the Safe Boating Guide found here: https://tc.canada.ca/en/marine-transportation/marine-safety/boating-safety.
July and August are peak months for boating and swimming. Now is the perfect time to review water safety practices with your family.
Another Motorcycle fatality . . .
Sunday, July 6th - - A motorcycle rider has died from their injuries following a collision in South Glengarry Township. On Sunday, July 6th, 2025, shortly before 9:00 p.m., members of the Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry (SD&G) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police responded to the scene on County Road 2 near Brodeur Road in the Camerons Point area.
A motorcycle had left the road, and the rider was found in the ditch with serious injuries. The 23-year-old male from Quebec was transported to hospital by Cornwall SDG Paramedics and was then transferred to a regional trauma centre.
Witnesses have indicated that a car, described as a black Honda Civic or Accord, had been seen being driven dangerously in the area at the time of the crash. It's not known if this vehicle was involved in the collision.
Investigators want to hear from witnesses or anyone with potentially relevant dashcam video, who has not spoken to officers. If you can help, contact the SD&G OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and refer to incident E250891764. If you have information but wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
Paving scams on the rise . . .
Tuesday, June 26th - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is advising community members to be cautious of possible paving and repair scams across the province.
Individuals may offer to pave driveways, fix roofs, or do other home repairs, often claiming it's a "one-day-only deal." They may seem professional, with flyers and websites, but they often use fake names, false ID, and unmarked vehicles. They ask for cash up front, then leave behind poor-quality work, or never return at all.
The OPP would like the public to know that these scams usually happen between April and October and often go unreported. If someone shows up at your door offering services you didn't request, don't feel pressured. Take your time, talk to a trusted friend or family member, and report anything suspicious to police.
These types of Scams happen on a regular basis and can be avoided by these simple tips/reminders.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• Proper businesses don't need to knock on doors-they're usually already busy.
• Always check out the company first and read the whole contract.
• If you think it might be a scam, call your local police.
The OPP urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious paving offers or contractor activity. If you believe you have been targeted by a paving scam, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
