06/05/2026
A Special Day at the Community Garden
Yesterday at the Community Garden, we didn’t just host an open house and barbeque — we celebrated something truly special. It was a day of recognition, gratitude, and community as we honoured Deidre (Dee) Millar, the steady and passionate force behind the garden.
Dee has been the heart of this space for years. Her passion, knowledge, love, and unwavering dedication have gone far beyond expectations, helping grow not only healthy food — but a stronger, more connected community.
To recognize her incredible contributions, a large stone has been placed at the entrance to the garden. It will soon bear the inscription:
“This site is dedicated to Deidre Chegahno Millar, whose inspiring leadership and deep passion for feeding our community healthy, nourishing food continues to uplift and guide us all.”
This dedication will be inscribed in mid-July — a lasting tribute for generations to come.
When we look back on these days, it will be remembered that one Anishnaabe-Kwe helped lay the foundation for a food system rooted in community care, strength, and sovereignty.
As part of the celebration, Dee will also be receiving a beautiful piece of artwork created by our own Jasmine Keeshig — a meaningful and heartfelt gift.
Miigwech to everyone who made this day possible:
• Social Services Staff – for always stepping up, supporting, and making things happen
• Amy Peterson – for preparing the garden space so beautifully, creating a welcoming and vibrant setting for the season
• Laura Vogl – for her tireless cleanup work, amazing energy all week, and for cutting all those onions (we noticed and appreciated it!)
• Blake Jones – for tilling the garden and getting it ready for planting
• KES Students & Staff – your enthusiasm and willingness to jump right in (especially rock removal!) is always inspiring. You are such an important part of this garden’s success
• Board of Education supporters – for continuing to stand behind this initiative
• Ogimaa-Kwe Smith and Council – for attending, presenting Dee with a beautiful plant basket, and sharing words of appreciation from Chief and Council
• Stanford, Anthony, and Rob – hands-down the best hamburger grillers around
• Everyone who attended – for participating, completing surveys, and showing appreciation for the garden team and especially Dee.
I hope I haven’t missed anyone.
I did not have a lot of time to take pictures however there are some floating around and we’ll post any that are shared with us.
Winners of the survey submissions will be announced on Monday June 8, 2026.
Yesterday was more than an event — it was a reminder of what can grow when a community comes together with care, purpose, and heart.
Miigwech to all who helped make it so meaningful.