At its meeting on Thursday, June 26, Champlain Township council awarded the 2025 Senior of the Year Award to dedicated community member Samme Putzel.
With a career including roles as a farmer, artist, author, and community event organizer, Putzel was recognized by council for her continued dedication to the community through organizations and local event management.
Putzel continues to own and operate Excellent Events, which was established by her late partner Phil Arber. Excellent Events continues to present the annual May Show Festival and Festival of Flavours in Vankleek Hill each year.
Additionally, Putzel purchased the Creating Centre in 2018, transforming it into a welcoming and inclusive space for community engagement.
In 2022, she helped launch the Eastern Ontario Land Trust—an organization that promotes sustainability and climate action through grassroots initiatives and education. The Eastern Ontario Land Trust includes the McAlpine Forever Forest, located west of Vankleek Hill.
Champlain Township Mayor Normand Riopel explained, “I have the honour of recognizing someone whose creativity, leadership, and dedication have had a lasting impact on the community. Your efforts have strengthened our community in so many ways, and we thank you for your continued initiative and work.”
