News Release | July 7, 2026 – Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands raise Community Inspired Commemorative Flag in Recognition of 25th Anniversary of Amalgamation

(Lansdowne) – Council members, staff, community members and Mr. John Paul Jackson, community member and creator of the 25th Anniversary of Amalgamation Commemorative Flag, gathered at the Township Administrative office, 1233 Prince Street for the official unveiling and flag-raising of the 25th Anniversary commemorative flag.

The event featured remarks from the Mayor and members of Council, recognition of Mr. Jackson’s art submission, the design and voting process, and the ceremonial raising of the Township’s 25th Anniversary of Amalgamation flag by Mr. John Paul Jackson. The newly unveiled flag will be flown on the community flagpole at the Township office for the balance of the anniversary of the 25th amalgamation year.

“This celebration is a reflection of the people who make our Township such a strong and welcoming community,” said Mayor Corinna Smith- Gatcke. “The anniversary logo is meaningful because it was created by a resident and voted on by the larger community and reflects the pride we all share in our community.”

The Township extended appreciation to all residents who participated in the logo design process, to those who voted for the winning design as well as those who attended the ceremony to raise the commemorative flag.  In addition to the flag raising, 25 silver maple trees were planted in area parks last month.

Following the flag raising, attendees had the opportunity to connect with the design artist and take home a commemorative 25th anniversary chocolate bar, from area chocolatier, Ridgway Confections.The Township encourages residents to continue participating in community engagement events and activities throughout the year as the community reflects on its past and looks ahead to the next 25 years.

Pictured L-R – Mayor Smith-Gatcke, Councillors: Mabee, Antoine-Hartley, LeClair, Roberston and Mr. John Paul Jackson.