Here are five stories to know today, with the focus first on Cornwall, SDG&A and Akwesasne and then on a national development with implications for local businesses and households.
Cornwall prepares for Orange Shirt Day gathering at Lamoureux Park
Cornwall’s community Orange Shirt Day event takes place tomorrow, September 30, at Lamoureux Park as part of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The City has been inviting residents to participate in the local gathering, which is intended to recognize survivors of residential schools, remember the children who did not return home and continue conversations about reconciliation. For Cornwall, the event also reflects the city’s relationship with neighbouring Akwesasne and the importance of keeping reconciliation visible at the community level rather than treating September 30 simply as another date on the calendar. Source: City of Cornwall.
New financing program targets Cornwall-area businesses affected by tariffs
The Cornwall SDG Business Advisory Centre is highlighting CANtrade, a financing program aimed at helping local businesses respond to tariff pressures and changing trade conditions. The announcement comes as Canada-U.S. trade tensions continue to create uncertainty for manufacturers, exporters and other businesses connected to cross-border supply chains. For Cornwall and SDG, where proximity to the border is an economic advantage but can also create exposure to trade disruptions, access to financing and advisory support could become increasingly important for companies trying to diversify customers, adjust supply chains or invest in new markets. Source: Cornwall SDG Business Advisory Centre.
Limestone Ridge Conservation Area takes shape in South Stormont
The Raisin Region Conservation Authority and Township of South Stormont have unveiled the name and sign for the new Limestone Ridge Conservation Area, a 105-acre property containing provincially significant wetland and forest habitat. South Stormont donated the land to the conservation authority in 2024, and restoration work includes invasive-species removal and tree planting. The property is not yet open to the public, but future planning is expected to examine trails and recreational access. The project adds protected natural space to the region and could eventually become another outdoor destination near Long Sault. Source: SDG Counties.
Akwesasne heating assistance applications open ahead of winter
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne is accepting applications for the 2026-27 Akwesasne Heating Assistance Program. Eligible households can receive $2,000 in assistance for winter heating costs, with applications open until December 11. The program covers eligible Akwesasró:non in the northern portion of Akwesasne and specified surrounding areas. With colder weather approaching and household energy costs remaining a significant expense, the program is an important practical resource for residents who qualify. Akwesasne is also holding community registration activities to connect residents with heating assistance and other available supports. Source: Mohawk Council of Akwesasne.
New U.S. import bans deepen Canada-U.S. trade dispute
New U.S. import bans on selected Canadian alcoholic beverages, whey products, molasses and certain motorcycles took effect at 12:01 a.m. today, September 29. The Trump administration says the restrictions respond to Canadian trade practices and retaliatory tariffs, while Canadian officials have called the measures unjustified and say protecting Canadian workers and businesses remains a priority. Although the bans directly target specific industries, the wider concern for Eastern Ontario is the continuing deterioration of Canada-U.S. trade relations. Cornwall and SDG sit directly on a major cross-border trade corridor, meaning prolonged uncertainty can affect local manufacturers, transportation companies and businesses whose supply chains extend into the United States. Sources: Global News and White House fact sheet.
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