This award is given by a municipality to recognize an outstanding senior who, enriches the social, cultural or civic life of the community.

        Arla Cassekman-Veinotte exemplifies what it means to be an engaged community member whose impact touches every corner of our township. Arla's volunteer work spans the full spectrum of community life. She tends to the Iroquois United Church Cemetery with reverence and care, ensuring our loved one’s rest in dignity. Through the Community Food Share and Meals on Wheels, she helps ensure that no neighbor goes hungry, delivering not just food but friendship to those who need it most.

        Walk through our community and you'll see Arla's handiwork everywhere—from the beautiful flowerbeds she installs and maintains that brighten our streets, to the clean roadsides she keeps pristine through the Adopt a Road program. She's helped preserve our local history through her work with the Historical Society of South Dundas and even rolled up her sleeves to paint a pop-up shop and pick up litter wherever she finds it.

        Congratulations Arla! 

Text and photo: South Dundas municipal we site . . . 

Friday, June 6th - One person has been charged following a serious assault in South Dundas Township.

        Officers with the Stormont, Dundas, and Glengarry Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police attended a field adjacent to Van Allen Road shortly before 6:30 p.m. on Friday, June 6th, 2025.

        It had been reported that a male had been assaulted with an edged weapon. When officers arrived, they found that a 37-year-old man had suffered stab wounds. He was transported to hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

        As a result of the investigation by front-line officers the OPP Crime Unit, a 14-year-old male has been charged with:

            •  Assault causing bodily harm

            •  Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm

            •  Possession of weapon for a dangerous purpose

            •  Assault

        The name of the accused cannot be released under the terms of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. There was no risk to public safety, and the victim was known to the accused. The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Cornwall.

Tuesday, June 11, 2025 – The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, in partnership with the Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Committee has announced a collaborative restoration project at the Crysler’s Farm Memorial, a designated Canadian National Historic Site. The initiative is made possible through a significant investment from SLPC, generous in-kind support from Tomlinson Construction, and contributions from Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Committee.  

         The Battle of Crysler’s Farm, fought on Thursday, November 11th, 1813, was a pivotal moment in the War of 1812, where a British and Canadian force successfully repelled a much larger American army advancing toward Montreal. Among those who stood in defence of the colony were Mohawk warriors from Tyendinaga, led by Chief “Captain John” Deserontyon.

        Though few in number, their deep knowledge of the land and Canadian weather proved invaluable to the allied forces. Fighting alongside British troops and Canadian militiamen, they played a critical role in securing victory. In recognition of their bravery, several Mohawk warriors were awarded the General Service Medal in 1847, a testament to their enduring legacy in shaping Canada’s early history. 

        To continue to honour and to learn from this important chapter in Canada's history, the restoration will focus on improving both the condition and accessibility of the memorial site, helping ensure all visitors can meaningfully experience and reflect on the legacy of the Battle of Crysler’s Farm. 

        Planned enhancements include: Cleaning the monument, repointing and leveling the surrounding stonework; repaving both the East and West walkways, and constructing a new accessible pathway from the Miniature Train station to the Battle Memorial building;  upgrading and removing outdated electrical components to improve lighting and functionality; restoring the historic cannons and repairing the existing flagpole mechanisms; installing accessible seating areas, picnic tables, new signage, and interpretive storyboards. 

        “This project reflects the power of partnership and a shared commitment to preserving our national heritage,” said Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “Together, we’re investing in the future of Crysler’s Farm Memorial and ensuring it remains accessible for all to connect with its history.” 

        "It is great to see the renovations and improvements being made to the Battle of Crysler's Farm site. I'm grateful to see the partnerships that came together with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, Tomlinson's, and the Friends of Crysler's Farm Battlefield," added MP Eric Duncan. "This is an important historical site that commemorates the service and sacrifices of soldiers, who before Canada was even founded, protected our sovereignty and territory. Without their service and success, Canada would not be what it is today. These renovations will allow the site to be a fitting tribute for decades to come." 

        The restoration project began late 2024, with an expected completion date at the end of 2025. The Friends of Crysler's Farm Battlefield Committee invites the community to participate in upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. 

About the Friends of Crysler's Farm Battlefield . . .

        The Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield is a registered charity dedicated to preserving the memory of the pivotal Battle of Crysler’s Farm and caring for the Battle Memorial Building. For more than three decades, the group has played a vital role in safeguarding this historic site and promoting its legacy. Their work includes re-enactments including hosting a large-scale, biannual re-enactment of the 1813 battle, bringing history to life for visitors of all ages; Remembrance Day Ceremonies each November 11th to honour the soldiers who fought and died at Crysler’s Farm; actively maintaining and enhancing the Battle Memorial Building and monument grounds, often through volunteer efforts and fundraising; and public education in engaging the public through historical events, interpretive programming, and outreach initiatives that raise awareness of the battle’s national significance. 

        Through their ongoing commitment, the Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Committee continue to ensure that this important chapter of Canadian history remains visible, respected, and understood by future generations. 

Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025 - The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario is pleased to announce that Shelley Montgomery, Superintendent of Student Success, Elementary, with the Ottawa Catholic School Board has been selected as the new Director of Education, effective July 1, 2025. 

        Director Montgomery will take over the position from Laurie Corrigan, who announced her retirement in January, after serving in the position since February 2022.

        “I am honored to join the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, an organization known for its exemplary commitment to faith-based education and student success. My experience has taught me the value of collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision. I am eager to contribute to this vibrant community and to build upon its strong traditions while embracing opportunities for growth and transformation. Together, I believe we can continue to empower students and strengthen the foundation of excellence that defines CDSBEO.” Montgomery said in accepting the appointment.

        “Shelley’s dedication and extensive experience in Catholic education are commendable and she will be a great asset to our board. The Board of Trustees is fortunate to have found such an outstanding candidate. Throughout her distinguished career, she has shown commitment as an educator and gained experience in both urban and rural schools. I, along with the Board of Trustees, look forward to working with her in this new role.” Board Chair Chris Cummings pointed out in expressing his support for the new director.

        Shelley Montgomery brings extensive experience in education, leadership, and curriculum development to her role as Director of Education. She has served as a Supervisory Officer with the Ottawa Catholic School Board since 2019, overseeing portfolios such as student achievement, Indigenous education, equity, and early years programs. A bilingual educator with a Master’s in Education, she is also a university instructor and public speaker, having presented internationally on innovative pedagogies. Her accomplishments include creating environmental and equity frameworks, leading virtual learning initiatives, and fostering critical thinking in the age of AI. She has also consistently demonstrated commitment to student success and community engagement.

        “Our Board will greatly benefit from Shelley Montgomery’s extensive experience in Catholic education and her dedication to student success. Her leadership as Superintendent with OCSB has proven her ability to effectively plan for students' needs. I am confident that her passion for innovative education will enhance CDSBEO and further advance our multi-year strategic planning goals.” added retiring Director Laurie Corrigan.

        The Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario operates 39 elementary and 10 secondary schools across eight counties. 

        The Ontario government launched the new Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence (OVACSE). The award honours individuals for exceptional and ongoing service to their communities, such as work to help veterans re-integrate into civilian life, supporting those dealing with ongoing mental or physical injuries, or other broader community-building initiatives.

        "Premier Ford and our government are proud to launch the Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence, a historic program to honour the invaluable volunteer efforts of our veterans," said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism. " We can never fully repay those who have served our country, but this award will help strengthen our province by recognizing the legacy of our veterans and their contributions to building a stronger Ontario.”

        The new initiative makes Ontario the first province in Canada to establish an award specifically dedicated to honouring veterans' excellence in community service. Each year, Ontario branches of The Royal Canadian Legion will each nominate one veteran who has demonstrated significant and sustained contributions to their community through exceptional work. The nominating branches of Legions will present certificates and lapel pins to award recipients during local ceremonies in each year. 

        “Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry, and all of Ontario, is home to veterans who have bravely served our nation and continue to give back in countless ways,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “Our government is proud to create the Ontario Veterans Award for Community Service Excellence, allowing us to honour our courageous veterans whose dedication continues to make our communities and province stronger.” Ontario is home to approximately 149,000 veterans and each year, approximately 9,000 Canadian Armed Forces members are released from military service.

        "We applaud the Government of Ontario for launching an award that not only honours veterans but also the work they continue doing to serve their communities by volunteering. Veterans have served to protect all that we value in Ontario, and this is the least we can do to recognize their contributions when they return. The Royal Canadian Legion Branches of Ontario Provincial Command are excited to be working with the government to ensure we recognize and celebrate the contributions of veterans from all corners of the province from Ottawa to Windsor to Timmins and everything in between."

        - Derek Moore, Provincial President, The Royal Canadian Legion Ontario Provincial Comm

        Currently, there are seven community members on the committee: Julie Betts, Julie Cyr, Terry MacLellan, Debra McLean, Chris McNairn, Maureen Thibeau and Lisa Vaters. Each one has a great reason for getting involved.

        Debra McLean is PFEC’s co-chair and also sits on numerous WDMH committees. “I joined PFEC in recognition of the excellent care I received while a cancer patient in 2019. I wanted to give back.”

        Julie Betts has lived outside the village of Winchester for 20 years. When she retired, she wanted to volunteer locally. “WDMH is a wonderful hospital and I want to help and provide my perspective as a patient and a member of the community.  I love the value that the committee members provide to further improve WDMH.

        In addition to sitting on PFEC, Maureen Thibault also volunteers at the front desk and spends time with patient and families in the Emergency Department: “I joined the PFEC committee to see if there was opportunity to help both patients and families experiences while receiving services at the hospital. Being present for people who may be struggling or stressed coming and going from appointments has been a rewarding experience.”

        “I hope to make a difference by working with members of a team to help increase efficiency, safety and respect in the workplace,” adds Julie Cyr. “With a background in community safety, I feel that working to ensure the safety of staff, patients and visitors to hospital in these challenging times is paramount.”

        Lisa Vaters says WDMH has been caring for her family since 2008. “One of our family members has heart health needs and being able to get such great care in our area is important and lifesaving to us. I hope to make a difference by providing our experiences and other neighbours and friends experiences who live and use WDMH.”

        Finally, Terry MacLellan is one of the longest-serving PFEC members. “I want to be a voice for families and patients who sometimes don’t have a voice for themselves. It’s more important than ever to treat the family a whole and not just the patient and the illness. If the family is happy, the patient will be happy.”

        Janie Desroches, Vice President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive, agrees. “The patient voice is the most important voice. To ensure our patients are at the centre of everything we do, we need to hear from them and their families. We are grateful to all of our PFEC members for their input and insights.”

        Interested community members are invited to complete an application form, found on the WDMH website at www.wdmh.on.ca/PFEC.  They may also contact Megan Derick at 613-774-2422, ext. 6352 or mderick@wdmh.on.ca for more information.

        The season kicks off June 5th - 29th with A Woman’s Love List, the premiere of a new comedy by Canada’s most popular playwright Norm Foster. Megan and Carly create a list of qualities that make the ideal man and much to their surprise he appears. This hilarious comedy looks at a woman’s quest for the perfect mate. It’s a clever twist on Foster’s former play The Love List where two men search for the ideal woman. Playhouse audiences will be the first to enjoy the flip side of the list when Foster turns it all around.

        Next up is the hit comedy The Sweet Delilah Swim Club by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten running July 3rd - 27th. Five women from their college swim team days meet every year at a cottage called The Sweet Delilah to recharge their friendships.

        Join these unforgettable ladies on four of these reunions spanning 33 years as they catch up, laugh and meddle in each other’s lives. It’s a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever.

        Playhouse audiences will be guests at a funny and furious wedding July 31st - August 24th when another classic Foster comedy, Maggie’s Getting Married, hits the stage. There’s no better time for comedy and chaos than the night before a wedding when everyone’s nerves are frazzled. It’s set in the Duncan family kitchen where everyone awaits the arrival of the groom. Everything’s going to plan and they’re ready for anything. Except for the Big Surprise that turns the kitchen into a 3-ring circus.

        The summer season concludes as we dip into fall with a sparkling new comedy that’s taking the theatre world by storm. Running September 4th - 28th, Hurry Hard by Kristen Da Silva, is set in a small Ontario town’s curling club. Bill and Sandy’s marriage has split up, so their team also splits up into a men’s and women’s team. When the men’s is short a player for the big Bonspiel, they put aside their differences and reunite as one team. You don’t have to know a thing about curling. Just be ready to laugh and enjoy the hilarious ups and downs of this unlikely team in this witty and fast-paced comedy.

        Following the summer comedy season is a return to the Playhouse stage by Lucien and Jimmy the Janitor in their new comedy, Senior Moments, running October 14th - 19th. Audiences will be treated to more East Coast hilarity from everyone’s favourite Maritime comic duo as they probe the mysteries and wonders of aging.

        The 2025 Season concludes December 4th - 21st with The Playhouse’s popular family production of A Christmas Carol. Scrooge’s adventure discovering the true meaning of Christmas comes alive in a musical and magical journey performed on an exciting revolving stage filled with song, dance, special effects and a large cast of Dickens’ legendary characters.

        The 2022 production of this classic show sold out and The Playhouse is excited to bring it back by popular demand for those who didn’t get an opportunity to see it and those excited to experience it again.

For Flex Passes, single tickets and more information contact: 

613-543-3713 / 877-550-3650

uppercanadaplayhouse.com