Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal Announces 2025 Community Awards Recipients

The Township of Edwardsburgh Cardinal is proud to celebrate the residents, volunteers and businesses whose leadership and service strengthen our community. After reviewing this year’s nominations, Council selected multiple award recipients across several categories to recognize the exceptional achievements seen throughout the year.

Mayor Tory Deschamps opened the ceremony by stating that the awards celebrate the heart of Edwardsburgh Cardinal. He shared that volunteers, business leaders and neighbours who go the extra mile represent the spirit that makes the municipality a special place to call home.

Michael Barrett, Member of Parliament for Leeds Grenville Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, also brought greetings and noted the importance of recognizing local excellence. He spoke about the privilege of returning from national discussions in the House of Commons to a community where residents help those in need, support their neighbours and take pride in their home.

Small Business of the Year: Happy Little Farmstead

Councillor Chris Ward presented the Small Business of the Year award to Happy Little Farmstead. He expressed pride in recognizing a business that stands out for community involvement and strong engagement on social media, congratulating them as a true neighbourhood farm.

Since opening to the public in 2022, Happy Little Farmstead, owned by Lea and Alex Ardley, has transformed an empty dairy barn into a lively family space that offers seasonal events, hands-on learning experiences and high-quality local products. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture includes organic vegetables, eggs, honey and a recent expansion through a new greenhouse. The farmstead supports the community through school visits, volunteer days, markets and contributions to local food drives and shelters. Happy Little Farmstead demonstrates innovation, stewardship and community spirit and are a well-deserved award recipient.

Small Business of the Year: Burchell’s Home Hardware

Councillor Joe Martelle presented the award for Small Business of the Year to Burchell’s Home Hardware. He spoke about their outstanding customer service, deep product knowledge and unwavering commitment to the community. He noted that while the store sits at the centre of the village, it has also been the heart of Cardinal for nearly three decades. Kevin Burchell, Owner, along with his family and staff accepted the award.

Burchell’s Home Hardware is known for its friendly, personal service and willingness to source products quickly for local homeowners and contractors. Their team greets every customer with sincerity and helpfulness, creating a welcoming environment that reflects the strength of small business in Edwardsburgh Cardinal. Their long-standing reliability and community minded approach made them an excellent choice for this award.

Volunteer Group or Community Organization of the Year: Spencerville Agricultural Society

Mayor Tory Deschamps presented the next Volunteer Group of the Year award to the Spencerville Agricultural Society. He recognized the Society for supporting local agriculture, creating opportunities for families and volunteers, and building events that bring the community together. He noted that the recent Spencerville Fair was a triumph and a celebration of tradition, innovation and community spirit. He emphasized that the fair brings joy, pride and significant economic benefit to Edwardsburgh Cardinal and the surrounding region.

The Society has operated for 170 years and continues to be run entirely by volunteers. This year’s Spencerville Fair drew tens of thousands of visitors and featured major attractions including the RCMP Musical Ride and a drone show sponsored by Michael Barrett. The Society also hosts events such as Ladies Night, the Father’s Day Car Show and Breakfast and the annual Chinese Dinner. President Rebecca Lawrence, along with First Vice President Eric Connell and Second Vice President Mike Tracey, accepted the award.

Volunteer Group or Community Organization of the Year: Cardinal Festival Committee

Councillor Waddy Smail presented the award to the Cardinal Festival Committee. He spoke about the visible joy at festival events and the unseen hours of effort behind them, noting that volunteers spend evenings organizing logistics, lifting equipment, and often missing time with their own families to support the community. He thanked the Committee for creating memories and filling the local calendar with joy.

The Cardinal Festival Committee organizes family friendly events throughout the year, including Canada Day, Labour Day, Family Day, trivia nights and more. Their dedication and teamwork ensure that these traditions remain strong. Committee Chair Brody Fahrngruber accepted the award on behalf of the group.

Large Business of the Year: Canadian Rail Equipment Works and Services (CREWS)

The Township is pleased to recognize Canadian Rail Equipment Works and Services as Large Business of the Year.

Michael Barrett presented the award and reflected on his time on Council from 2014 to 2018 when CREWS first proposed locating rail services in Edwardsburgh Cardinal. He recalled early uncertainty about the concept and the impressive vision that followed. He highlighted how CREWS has grown from driving the first ceremonial rail spike to operating a major logistics complex that supports industry across the country. He noted that CREWS delivers skilled employment, invests in the community, and plays a crucial role in supporting the Township owned Port of Johnstown.

Now in Phase 7 of development, CREWS continues to provide reliable and essential rail services that support manufacturers, the agricultural community and businesses across Eastern Ontario. Their continued investment in infrastructure and customer service strengthens supply chain performance at a time when efficiency is critical. CREWS is a valued employer and partner in regional economic development and is a deserving recipient of this year’s award.  Clayton Jones, President, and Jesse Jones, Chief Financial Officer accepted the award.

Youth Citizen of the Year: Johnstown Jewels U15 Girls Softball Team

Mayor Tory Deschamps presented the Youth Citizen of the Year award to the Johnstown Jewels U15 Girls Softball Team. He praised their teamwork, character and community spirit, noting that they have brought pride not only to Edwardsburgh Cardinal but also to the Township of Augusta. He emphasized that success on the field matters, but how these athletes carry themselves off the field is just as important. He thanked them for being strong role models and ambassadors for the community.

The team won the provincial championship this year after a perfect six-game run, finishing with an eight to three victory in the final. Council previously held a special celebration in their honour and declared August 24, 2026 as Johnstown Jewels Day. The team continues to inspire through their dedication and sportsmanship.

Citizen of the Year: Sheila Bush

Deputy Mayor Stephen Dillabough presented the Citizen of the Year Award to Sheila Bush. He shared that it was a pleasure to honour someone who has dedicated her life to the community and gives her time repeatedly without hesitation.

Sheila Bush received the Ontario Senior of the Year Award earlier this year for her many contributions. A retired labour and delivery nurse, she has also coached girls hockey and fastball, supported the Spencerville Agricultural Society, contributed to the Catholic Women’s League, volunteered in curling and assisted with regional Highland Games. She continues to excel in athletics, winning senior golf titles and competing nationally and internationally. Her lifelong commitment to service and community leadership makes her an outstanding Citizen of the Year.

In his closing comments, Mayor Deschamps thanked all attendees and award recipients and spoke about the pride he feels in serving the Township. He noted that volunteers and local businesses form the backbone of Edwardsburgh Cardinal and that their efforts contribute directly to the community’s growth and success. He also shared that his colleagues on the Joint Services Committee of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville often remark on the positive progress happening in Edwardsburgh Cardinal.

The Township congratulates all award recipients and extends sincere gratitude to the many volunteers, businesses and residents who contribute to making Edwardsburgh Cardinal a strong, vibrant and welcoming community.