Holiday Special 2021

Twas the night before Christmas

and Team Fergmeijer's equipped

to share Christmas greetings

with a wide readership!

There’s one major event

that can’t be o’rstated - 

Manitoulin’s two papers

are now amalgamated.

Our new audience is huge,

in print and online;

And now ALL of the Island

is age twenty-nine!       

But despite all the fame(!)

we haven’t forgotten our roots;

Here’s a recap of news

from close to Bridal Veil chutes:  

The town’s roads were refurbished

with sidewalks and curbs; 

It looks so darn sharp

that we don’t have the words!

All year long there were businesses

and homes changing hands;

We welcomed many new neighbours

to these fair lands.

The rink got spruced up

with new boards and more light,

Allowing Kagawongians

to go skating day and night!!

The market was double

what we’d come to expect;

50+ summer vendors

with tables bedecked.

With artwork and crafts

and goodies innumerable, 

The crowds were so big,

it was barely maneuverable!

Not everything this year

was rosy and bright; 

We lost a good man,

who always tried to do right. 

We all have an Aus story

to reminisce. 

His is a presence

that’ll forever be missed. 

And of course COVID continued,

so our year comprised

Of many more masks

and hands sanitized. 

But as 2021

comes to a close

With all of its highs

and all of its lows, 

Rest assured, we remain,

your faithful scrivener.

Merry Christmas to all,

from Team Fergmeijer! 

December 15, 2021

Team Fergmeijer was out for a walk around town this weekend, and when we passed Fran and Dave’s they were standing out on their porch yelling, “EVERY GOOD BOY DESERVES FUDGE!” and “MY VERY EDUCATED MOTHER JUST SERVED US NINE PIZZAS!” It was very strange, but we didn’t think too much about it until we saw Willa on the corner, and she was yelling, “PLEASE EXCUSE MY DEAR AUNT SALLY!” and, “SUPERMAN HELPS EVERY ONE!” It was at that moment we realized the awful truth…they had caught the mnemonic plague!

This year’s digital Christmas concert is just around the corner and can always use more contributors. Break out your cell phone and film yourself telling a joke or singing a song. Do a short skit or show off your talent on the keyboard. Share the video with the organizers at kagawong@live.ca by Friday and you can be included in the concert that streams on December 18th at 7pm! You can view the concert via Zoom by visiting  tinyurl.com/KagChristmas2021 

The Lake Kagawong Resource Committee, and the Parks, Recreation, and Wellness Committee are looking for new members. If you are interested in joining one of these committees, or have any questions, visit the Billings Township website (http://billingstwp.ca). Applications are due to Tiana Mills by email at tmills@billingstwp.ca. 

We were thinking of buying Batman slippers this Christmas, but then remembered that he’s a billionaire and can afford to buy his own.

Best wishes to Hailey F who is celebrating her birthday this week. She’s not quite 29, but you wouldn’t know it based on her attitude. It’s one of our favourite things about her. Also celebrating this week is Christine L-M who turns 29 this weekend. As always, we wish you joy, peace, and cows that stay on the right side of the fencing.  

Take note! The township office will be closed from Friday, December 24th at noon until Tuesday, January 4th at 8:30am. The landfill will have regular hours with the exception of being closed on Sunday, December 26th. The library will be closed Saturday December 25th and Saturday January 1st. 

How much does Santa pay to park the sleigh? Nothing, it's on the house.

No amount of rain, thunder or lightning could put a damper on the Country Home and Business Tour this past weekend. It was so much fun to tour through the different locations and there are so many last-minute Christmas gifts right here in town!

Team Fergmeijer had a really good ice pun for you, but it slipped our mind. Regardless, the township is looking for volunteers to help maintain the rink! Volunteering would include maintenance checks of the rink and snow removal. For more information, please email tmills@billingstwp.ca, or call (705) 282-2611 x225.

Need a last minute Christmas gift for someone (or for yourself - no judgement). The Billings history book, “How It All Began” is back in stock and available. To get a copy, stop in at the library or contact billingslibrary@vianet.ca to pick one up today!  

 

Don’t let the holiday stress get to you. One way to reduce your overall anxiety is keeping tropical fish at home. It can have a calming effect on the brain due to all the indoor fins. Have a great week!

December 8, 2021

Winter seems to be here to stay now, and your favourite journalists (and we use that term loosely) have decided to freeze the day with some winter puns. This weekend, one half of Team Fergmeijer went on a date. She was hoping for a whirlwind winter romance; a real ‘love at frost sight’ sort of thing. It started promising - her fella started the afternoon with sledding on Graham’s hill, but it was all downhill from there. He was going to take her skating in the next town over, but decided not to when he found out that instead of being free that day, the arena was charging $1.00. What a cheap skate! He refused to dip into his slush fund to get them out on the rink. The evening ended with a performance of Hamilton on Ice. It was not great. She was especially disappointed in the actor who played Aaron Brrr. When she heard about the details of the date, our Manitoulin Mom said that it would be better to just end it now. Her candor was shocking, but she just said, “I calls ‘em like icy ‘em.”

Kagawong must be high on the Nice List, as we got an early visit from Santa last week! Thank you to the Parks, Recreation and Wellness Committee for coordinating with the North Pole to get Santa here to meet with children and hand out treat bags. 

Don’t have all your holiday shopping done yet? Not to fear! The Kagawong Christmas Country Home & Business Tour on Saturday, December 11 will be a great opportunity to visit local businesses and artisans to cross those last few items off your list. Check out the ad in this paper or the Kagawong Facebook page to see a complete list of participating vendors. 

Team Fergmeijer went to a local coffee shop, where they told us our balance was outstanding. We didn’t realise that they had watched us skate! They likely saw us at the local rink… which is still looking for volunteers! Volunteering would include maintenance checks of the rink and snow removal. For more information, please email tmills@billingstwp.ca, or call (705) 282-2611 x225.

Are you interested in assisting Manitoulin communities in climate change mitigation? The Township of Billings and the Municipality of Central Manitoulin are looking to hire a joint Climate Change Implementation Coordinator. Visit https://billingstwp.ca/employment-opportunities/ for more information; applications are due to Kathy McDonald by email (kmcdonald@billingstwp.ca) no later than Friday, December 10 at noon.

Did you know that Frosty has a standing appointment with his sports physiotherapist this time of year? He plays a lot of sports, but is constantly injuring himself because he refuses to warm up first.

 

Former Kagawongian Rob Buie flew through another year last week. We still aren’t sure how birthdays work outside of Billings, but are assuming his deep Kagawongian roots mean Rob is turning 29. Happy birthday!

 

This year’s digital Christmas concert is just around the corner and can always use more contributors. Break out your cell phone and film yourself telling a joke or singing a song. Do a short skit or show off your talent on the keyboard. Share the video with the organizers at kagawong@live.ca and you can be included in the concert that streams on December 18th! 

Billings history book, “How It All Began” is back in stock and would make a great Christmas gift. To get your copy, stop in at the library or contact billingslibrary@vianet.ca to pick one up today!  

 

After all is sled and done, here’s hoping all these winter puns haven’t left you totally frostrated. Have a great week!

December 1, 2021

We’ve always felt that we were quite open and approachable, but a friend just raindeer-ed on our parade. She pointed out that both members of Team Fergmeijer suffer from RGF (resting grinch face). But wait, there’s myrrh! She also said that the RGF makes it look like we’re up to snow good! We were like, sleigh what?! How rude-olph of her! 

The Friends of Billings Library silent auction wrapped up on Sunday night. With 67 items donated by our always generous community, over $3500 was raised to support the library! Thank you to everyone who participated! Items can be picked up at the library (18 Upper Street) during regular library hours (Tues. & Thurs. 4-7; Sat 10-1). Payment can be made by cash or cheque.  

Can you hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring ting tingling too? Santa Claus is coming to town! The town has arranged a Meet & Greet with Santa on Friday, December 3, from 5-6:30pm. The location will be announced soon, so keep an eye on the Township of Billings Facebook page… and don’t forget your letter for Santa!

One half of Team Fergmeijer went on a first date to the outdoor rink by the Park Centre once, but got asked to leave. Apparently, it’s not the right place to break the ice. But if YOU might be interested in helping out with the rink, the Parks, Recreation, and Wellness Committee is looking for volunteers! Volunteering would include maintenance checks of the rink and snow removal. For more information, please email tmills@billingstwp.ca, or call (705) 282-2611 x225.

Are you interested in assisting Manitoulin communities in climate change mitigation? The Township of Billings and the Municipality of Central Manitoulin are looking to hire a joint Climate Change Implementation Coordinator. Visit https://billingstwp.ca/employment-opportunities/ for more information; applications are due to Kathy McDonald by email (kmcdonald@billingstwp.ca) no later than Friday, December 10 at noon.

If a blacksmith hammered your autograph out of red hot steel, did they just forge your signature?

Happy 29th birthday to Team Fergmeijer superfan, Laurie Z. We’ve heard Laurie needs glasses to read her birthday cards. Wine glasses. Have a great day!

Cue the music! You will get a sentimental feeling, when you hear voices singing… at the annual Kagawong Christmas Concert! This year’s digital concert is just around the corner and can always use more contributors. Break out your cell phone and film yourself telling a joke or singing a song. Do a short skit or show off your talent on the keyboard. Share the video with the organizers at kagawong@live.ca and you can be included in the concert that streams on December 18th! 

The library and museum are pleased to see the latest printing of the updated How It All Began book has been flying off the shelves. To get your copy, stop in at the library or contact billingslibrary@vianet.ca to make arrangements.  

 

The other day, Team Fergmeijer got the words “jacuzzi” and “yakuza” confused. Now we’re in hot water with the Japanese mafia. Have a great week!

November 24, 2021

The cold weather seems to be settling in more permanently. Knowing the snow will soon be here to stay, our friend spent Saturday afternoon chopping wood for the winter. We were amazed at how much he accomplished, but when we asked how long he had been at it, he said didn’t know off the top of his head - he’d have to check his logs.  

The waterfront is looking a bit different at the moment, as the town removed several trees from the area near the play equipment. The trees were showing signs of decay and were becoming a danger, so the township office had the public works guys take the trees out. Planning for replacing the trees or putting in some form of shade replacement is in the works. I’m sure the town would be interested in constructive and creative ideas! 

 

The silent auction being hosted by The Friends of the Billings Library goes live on Thursday! They have recently revealed the specifics of that big travel bundle they’ve been hinting at. Turns out, it is a round-trip ticket for two with WestJet (to any destination WestJet flies; some restrictions and blackout dates apply) PLUS a free night at the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre! This is in addition to the dozens of other amazing items up for grabs. Join the Facebook group “Friends of Billings Library Silent Auction” (www.facebook.com/groups/billingslibrarysilentauction) to be able to bid on the fantastic items. 

 

Yesterday a young man came knocking on the door asking for a small donation to the creation of a local swimming pool. We thought it was a great idea, so we gave him a glass of water. 

Nora U has a birthday this week, but since it could be considered bad luck to celebrate early (and we can’t imagine anyone who doesn’t rush to read our column), we’ll wait until next week to offer our heartfelt congratulations to her. 

 

The other day, a friend of Team Fergmeijer asked us to pass her a lipstick, but we accidentally passed her a glue stick. She still isn’t talking to us.

The annual Community Christmas Concert is just a few weeks away and can always use more contributors. Break out your cell phone and film yourself telling a joke or singing a song. Do a short skit or show off your talent on the keyboard. Share the video with the organizers at kagawong@live.ca and you can be included in the concert that streams on December 18th! 

Did you know that Type O blood was actually supposed to be Type zero blood due to the lack of glycoproteins in the red blood cells. It was mis-read and is now known as Type “O” blood. You might say it was a…. Typo!

Santa Claus is coming to town! The town has arranged a Meet & Greet with Santa on December 3, from 5-6:30pm. The location will be announced soon, and don’t forget your letter for Santa!

The library and museum are pleased to see the latest printing of the updated How It All Began book have been flying off the shelves. To get your copy, stop in at the library or contact billingslibrary@vianet.ca to make arrangements.  

 

They say Great Britain is a really damp country. No wonder, since the queen has been reigning there for decades! Have a great week!

November 17, 2021

Team Fergmeijer, along with the entire community of Kagawong and beyond, was saddened to hear of Aus (Aussie) Hunt’s passing this past week. Aus was synonymous with our township, and his influence and legacy will be forever woven into the tapestry of our lives. Our hearts go out to his family and all those who knew him.

Was that a bit of snow we saw last weekend? It may be getting colder, but there’s lots going on over the next few weeks to warm the heart!

 

The Anglican Church is holding a Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 20th from 9am-2pm. There will be baked goods, crafts, and gift baskets up for grabs. They will also have a ‘take home’ fundraising dinner with homemade meat pies, lasagna and pierogies. All funds raised go towards replacing the church roof. Please note that current provincial protocols for church bazaars/fairs require anyone entering the church to have proof of full vaccination.

 

The Friends of the Billings Library is bringing their annual silent auction back, bigger and better than ever! The big ticket items like the golf card, mulch and gravel load are back again (along with SO many other fantastic items), but this year they have an extra-special travel bundle that will be up for grabs. Join the Facebook group “Friends of Billings Library Silent Auction” (www.facebook.com/groups/billingslibrarysilentauction) to be able to bid on the fantastic items. 

 

There was once was a poet from Billings, 

Whose writing was anything but shrilling.

She found her poetry

On the long list from CBC!

Sophie’s verses are inspiration-instilling.

 

Congratulations to Sophie Edwards on being one of 31 writers from across Canada to be longlisted for the 2021 CBC Poetry Prize with her poem, plaques: that they.

 

Happy Birthday to Mary Buie who continues to make 29 look good! We hope you have a fantastic day!

 

Got jokes? Or skits, songs, recitations, or dance moves? The annual Community Christmas Concert is streaming on December 18th! Make a short video and get in touch to have it added to this year's lineup. Email Kagawong@live.ca for more information. 

In other exciting library news (is there any other kind of library news?!), copies of How It All Began are back in stock and available for sale! Pick up your copy of this iconic local history book for $30 at the Billings Library or contact billingslibrary@vianet.ca to make arrangements. 

 

Looking for extra dough? Remove some snow! The township is looking to hire an individual for casual snow removal of municipal buildings through the winter. Check out the Billings Township Facebook page for more information; deadline to express interest at the township office is Thursday, November 18th at 4pm.

We found an old thesaurus on the side of the road last weekend. It was not very useful. Not only was it terrible, it was terrible. Have a great week!

November 10, 2021

Do you remember how things were back before daylight savings time? We do. Oh, how times have changed…If you are anything like Team Fergmeijer, you luxuriated in the extra hour on Sunday, courtesy of daylight savings time. It was a lovely hour, even if it was imaginary. In reality, the time change has some significant drawbacks. We won’t go into detail here, but you can check out our post about it on social media. We post an anti-time change rant every year. Like clockwork. Okay, okay, we know we’ve maxed out our time change puns. We’ll stop now before someone gets really upset and clocks us. 

Sadly, the Old Mill Heritage Centre’s annual Remembrance Day service, traditionally held on November 11, is cancelled this year due to COVID. However, there will be an outdoor wreath-laying ceremony at the Kagawong Cenotaph on Thursday, November 11th, at 11am. Lest we forget. 

Anyone walking through the lower village will likely have noticed the new boards up around the rink at the Park Centre, thanks to the hard work of many volunteers. Advertising will be going up soon and there are still some spaces available for your business. Contact the town office for more information. 

Help break in the new improvements by joining a pick-up game of ball hockey on Sunday afternoon! 

Best wishes go out to Jodi K who turns a fabulous 29 this week. We are 99% sure you are a Disney princess. (The 1% uncertainty is only because we aren’t sure birds talk to you.) Happy birthday!

Another special lady had a birthday this week, and even though she’s not living in Billings any more, we are going to assume she is still turning 29. Mostly because she doesn’t look (or act) a day over that. Many happy returns Rachel M.  

 

The Anglican Church is holding a Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 20th from 9am-2pm. There will be baked goods, crafts, and gift baskets up for grabs. They will also have a ‘take home’ fundraising dinner with homemade meat pies, lasagna and pierogies. All funds raised go towards replacing the church roof. Please note that as of Nov. 6th, provincial protocols for church bazaars/fairs require anyone entering the church to have proof of full vaccination.

We know it’s a bit early to be decorating for Christmas, but it’s not too early to be planning your song and dance number for the annual Community Christmas Concert! With COVID concerns still uppermost in mind, organizers have decided to stick to the online format they used last year. Mark Saturday, December 18th on your calendar and start thinking about what song, joke, skit, or dance you might be willing to contribute! Email Kagawong@live.ca for more information or if you are interested in performing. 

The Friends of the Billings Library is bringing their annual silent auction back, bigger and better than ever! The big ticket items like the golf card, mulch and gravel load are back again (along with SO many other fantastic items), but this year they have an extra-special travel bundle that will be up for grabs. Join the Facebook group “Friends of Billings Library Silent Auction” (www.facebook.com/groups/billingslibrarysilentauction) to get sneak peeks at the items before bidding goes live on Nov. 25th. 

In other exciting library news (is there any other kind of library news?!), copies of How It All Began are back in stock and available for sale! Pick up your copy of this iconic local history book for $30 at the Billings Library or contact billingslibrary@vianet.ca to make arrangements. 

 

Looking for extra dough? Remove some snow! The township is looking to hire an individual for casual snow removal of municipal buildings through the winter. Check out the Billings Township Facebook page for more information; deadline to express interest at the township office is Thursday, November 18th at 4pm.

Team Fergmeijer has a friend who keeps changing the sound their alarm clock makes. We wonder what they’re getting up to now… Have a great week!

November 3, 2021

Good Gourd, it’s November! Or should we say, Novem-brrrr? It may be colder, but etymologically-speaking, November is a hot month. Not as hot as Novfire but much warmer than Novashes.

Sadly, the Old Mill Heritage Centre’s annual Remembrance Day service, traditionally held on November 11, is cancelled this year due to COVID. However, there will be an outdoor wreath-laying ceremony at the Kagawong Cenotaph on Thursday, November 11th, at 11am. Lest we forget. 

The new boards are up on the rink and they look great! Big thanks to all the local people involved in getting those improvements done. We can’t wait to head down and try it out!

Happy birthday to Gail L. Forget about the past, we can’t change it; forget about the future, we can’t predict it; forget about the present, we didn’t get you one. Many happy returns!

Best wishes to our Mainland Mom who is recovering from hip replacement surgery this week. It’s impossible to keep her down… she’ll be up and dancing in no time!

A termite walks into a pub and asks, “Is the bar tender here?”

The Anglican Church is holding a Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 20th from 9am-2pm. There will be baked goods, crafts, and gift baskets up for grabs. They will also have a ‘take home’ fundraising dinner with homemade meat pies, lasagna and pierogies. All funds raised go towards replacing the church roof. COVID-19 protocols will be in place.

Did you know? Billings Township produces monthly newsletters! Check them out for updates on township projects and grants, upcoming meetings, general announcements, and a calendar of events. You can find current and past newsletters, here: https://billingstwp.ca/administration/new-monthly-newsletters/ 

When fish are in schools some take math, and some take debate.

We know it’s a bit early to be decorating for Christmas, but it’s not too early to be planning your song and dance number for the annual Community Christmas Concert! With COVID concerns still uppermost in mind, organizers have decided to stick to the online format they used last year. Mark Saturday, December 18th on your calendar and start thinking about what song, joke, skit, or dance you might be willing to contribute! Email Kagawong@live.ca for more information or if you are interested in performing. 

The Friends of the Billings Library is bringing their annual silent auction back, bigger and better than ever! The big ticket items like the golf card, mulch and gravel load are back again (along with SO many other fantastic items), but this year they have an extra-special travel bundle that will be up for grabs. Join the Facebook group “Friends of Billings Library Silent Auction” (www.facebook.com/groups/billingslibrarysilentauction) to get sneak peeks at the items before bidding goes live on Nov. 25th. 

Don’t be worried about your smartphone and TV spying on you. Your vacuum cleaner has been gathering dirt on you for years. Have a great week!

October 27, 2021

We helped introduce a neighbour to Minimalism. They were very grateful, but really, it was the least we could do. That same friend had their oldest son leave home thinking he would make his fortune uploading videos of himself poking seabirds with his finger. Now, realizing the error of his ways, their prod-a-gull son has returned home.

You know what they say… if the broom fits, fly it! On Halloween night, all little witches and warlocks can fly on by the Kagawong Pavilion anytime after 5pm and pick up a treat! Brought to you by the Parks, Recreation and Wellness Committee. 

In a series of strategic power moves (ha!), Hydro One came through this weekend, completing all their upgrades in the allotted outage time. Island residents should now all be updated on “current” affairs.

Happy birthday to Rachel B, who celebrates another trip around the sun. Meranda N is also celebrating this week. We hope you both take lessons from the turtles and shellebrate!  

 

The Anglican Church is holding a Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 20th from 9am-2pm. There will be baked goods, crafts, and gift baskets up for grabs. They will also have a ‘take home’ fundraising dinner with homemade meat pies, lasagna and pierogies. All funds raised go towards replacing the church roof. COVID-19 protocols will be in place. 

Looking to leave your mark on the township? The Township of Billings invites professional artists and illustrators with a connection to Billings to submit proposals and quotations for a re-design of the current flywheel face situated at the Old Mill Heritage Centre/Municipal Office Building Parking Lot. Proposals will be selected until November 26th, 2021 at noon. Check out https://billingstwp.ca/administration/requests-for-proposals/ for more information.

Did you know? Billings Township produces monthly newsletters! Check them out for updates on township projects and grants, upcoming meetings, general announcements, and a calendar of events. You can find current and past newsletters, here: https://billingstwp.ca/administration/new-monthly-newsletters/ 

The Old Mill Heritage Centre is pleased to announce that the popular Empress of Ireland exhibit will be continuing next year! Though really, this comes as no surprise. Who wouldn’t want to spend another summer in Kagawong? Welcome back, Captain!

We know it’s a bit early to be decorating for Christmas, but it’s not too early to be planning your song and dance number for the annual Community Christmas Concert! With COVID concerns still uppermost in mind, organizers have decided to stick to the online format they used last year. Mark Saturday, December 18th on your calendar and start thinking about what song, joke, skit, or dance you might be willing to contribute! Email Kagawong@live.ca for more information or if you are interested in performing. 

The concert isn’t the only event that is returning online again. The Friends of the Billings Library is bringing their annual silent auction back! November 25 you can click your way to an amazing deal on any number of fantastic items and support the library at the same time. Stay tuned for more details. 

Our Manitoulin Mom answered the door and found a 6-ft beetle who slapped her across the face and called her lazy. Apparently, there’s a really nasty bug going around. Stay safe and have a great week!

October 20, 2021

Team Fergmeijer passed two seasonal Kagawongians who broke down on their way to the ferry last weekend. They said their ‘check engine’ light came on, but when they got out and popped the hood, it was right where it was supposed to be. When we stopped to see why they were stopped on the side of the road, they said that they could really use a lift. We were happy to do what we could, so we complimented them on their hair and outfits and drove off. We were happy to hear that they sorted things out and managed to get home to their family. It could have been much worse; if there’s one thing we know about broken down vehicles, it takes one to no one. 

Where do ghosts buy their food? At the ghost-ery store! But on Halloween night, all little ghouls and goblins can get some treats for free starting at 5pm at the Kagawong Pavilion - stop on by! Brought to you by the Parks, Recreation and Wellness Committee. 

There is a planned power outage this Saturday from 8am - 5pm for pretty much the whole island. We know it’s not ideal (or even shocking) for a lot of people, but when it comes to this sort of thing, resistance is futile.

Happy birthday to long-distance honorary Kagawongian Joanne T, and Kagawongian-in-law Ken F, who both turned 29 this week. In honour of the momentous occasion, we have a birthday riddle: what has wings, a colourful tail and wears a bow? A birthday pheasant!

 

The Anglican Church is holding a Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 20th from 9am-2pm. There will be baked goods, crafts, and gift baskets up for grabs. They will also have a ‘take home’ fundraising dinner with homemade meat pies, lasagna and pierogies. All funds raised go towards replacing the church roof. COVID-19 protocols will be in place. 

Looking to leave your mark on the township? The Township of Billings invites professional artists and illustrators with a connection to Billings to submit proposals and quotations for a re-design of the current flywheel face situated at the Old Mill Heritage Centre/Municipal Office Building Parking Lot. Proposals will be selected until November 26th, 2021 at noon. Check out https://billingstwp.ca/administration/requests-for-proposals/ for more information.

Looking to get involved in the community? There are currently vacancies on the Parks, Recreation and Wellness Committee, as well as the Economic Development Committee. If you are interested in joining one of these committees, visit the township website (http://billingstwp.ca) for information and application forms.

The province has rolled out its new enhanced vaccine certificates that include a scannable QR code that protects your personal information. If you need your proof of vaccination or QR code printed, visit http://covid19.ontariohealth.ca to access your vaccination receipts. If you need help, stop in at the township office or library during their regular hours and someone will be happy to help you. 

Although the high double-digit temperatures might make you think differently, it is swiftly getting to be that festive time of year again: Community Christmas Concert time! With COVID concerns still uppermost in mind, organizers have decided to stick to the online format they used last year. It was such a fun night, that Team Fergmeijer can’t wait to experience it all over again this year! Stay tuned for dates and times, and start thinking about what song, joke, skit, or dance you might be willing to contribute! Email Kagawong@live.ca for more information or if you are interested in performing. 

Did you hear about the baker who became really successful after adding leaves to his bread recipe? He raked in the dough! Have a great week!

October 13, 2021

Last weekend was Thanksgiving, and as usual, we offer you a column with all the fixings! One half of your favourite hard-hitting journalists hosted a few family members and cooked for the crew. She always sticks to traditional recipes. If her grandmother caught her making boxed mashed potatoes, she would turn over in her gravy! To be honest, both members of Team Fergmeijer had family members beg them to stop with the Thanksgiving puns, but it’s nearly impossible to stop cold turkey. Now, we do have some actual news to share this week, but if you think the turkey puns are done, you ain’t seen stuffing yet! 

Looking to leave your mark on the township? The Township of Billings invites professional artists and illustrators with a connection to Billings to submit proposals and quotations for a re-design of the current flywheel face situated at the Old Mill Heritage Centre/Municipal Office Building Parking Lot. Proposals will be selected until November 26th, 2021 at noon. Check out https://billingstwp.ca/administration/requests-for-proposals/ for more information.

There is a planned power outage on Saturday October 23rd from 8am - 5pm for pretty much the whole island. We aren’t sure what the repairs are about. Just a shot in the dark, but we expect Hydro will shed some light on the matter soon. 

Happy birthday to our favourite Jef with one f. We know birthdays work differently down in the big smoke than they do here in Billings, but don’t worry - we won’t make any age-related jokes. We feel genuinely sorry for how old you are.  

 

Looking to get involved in the community? There are currently vacancies on the Parks, Rec and Wellness Committee, as well as the Economic Development Committee. If you are interested in joining one of these committees, visit the township website (http://billingstwp.ca) for information and application forms.

Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Susie Harrison. She was a one-of-a-kind spirit and we know so many in the community will miss her dearly. 

If you need proof of vaccination, visit http://covid19.ontariohealth.ca to print out your vaccination receipts. If you need help, stop in at the township office or library during their regular hours and someone will be happy to help you. 

The MSS craft sale is cancelled for this year; the school is unable to host it at this time.

If you are feeling seasonal craft sale-deprived, fear not! A little birdie told us that the church is putting together a Christmas bazaar in the near future. Stay tuned for more information.  

Sometimes the Thanksgiving turkey turns out dry, which just goes to show that there’s no accounting for bastes. Have a great week!

October 6, 2021

Remember when cosmetic surgery was a completely taboo subject? Now, you mention Botox and nobody raises an eyebrow. Well, like many people of a certain age, the lighthouse in the village has been showing some wear and tear from time (and gravity), and like many people fighting age (and gravity) the lighthouse will be getting some TLC. A nip and tuck, some cosmetic adjustments, a bit of a facelift as it were. We are assuming that afterwards it will look a little lighter and will be turning heads!

Congratulations to quintessential Kagawongian, Mary Buie! Having raised over $2700 for this year’s CIBC Run for the Cure, she was among the top three fundraisers for the Sudbury event! About a dozen supporters of Mary came out on Sunday as she led a pink-clad parade on a 3-km walk through the village to raise awareness. Well done, Mary! You are an amazing inspiration!

There is a planned power outage on Saturday October 23rd from 8am - 5pm. It will affect most of Manitoulin. It’s never too early to plan ahead. Case in point: Manitoulin used to have an ice making company and they didn’t take any precautions for the last major planned outage and they went into liquidation. 

Got extra pumpkins and decorative squash? It’s time to make Kagawong look autumn gourd-geous! The Harvest Glory Days winners will be decided the week after Thanksgiving, so there’s still lots of time to zhuzh up your home and business. Check out https://www.manitoulin.com/harvest-glory-days/ for more information.

Happy belated birthday to Kagawongian-by-marriage Kathryn B who turned 29 on Saturday. Tomorrow, Jamie F will be celebrating his 29th as well. Remember, it’s never too late to become what you want. Unless what you want to become is younger. 

 

The Township of Billings is once again hiring! If you or someone you know might be interested in applying for the role of Township Treasurer, visit https://billingstwp.ca/employment-opportunities/ to see the full job description. Applications are being accepted until 12 noon on Friday October 8th, 2021.

 

Looking to get involved in the community in a less formal way? There are currently vacancies on the Parks, Rec and Wellness Committee, as well as the Economic Development Committee. If you are interested in joining one of these committees, visit the township website (http://billingstwp.ca) for information and application forms.

If you need proof of vaccination, visit http://covid19.ontariohealth.ca to print out your vaccination receipts. If you need help, stop in at the township office or library during their regular hours and someone will be happy to help you. 

The Manitoulin Tennis Club will have one last session for the season on Sunday, October 10th, at 10am, at the Manitoulin Secondary School courts. Whether you are a tennis ace, or just absolutely LOVE the sport (see what we did there?), all are welcome to come out and play.

Have you ever considered that Amazon was actually invented by cats trying to find a way to get more cardboard boxes into their homes? As unlikely as that sounds, it’s always a paws-ibility. Have a great week!

September 29, 2021

After some serious introspection, your intrepid reporters have come to realize that we don’t make enough time for ourselves because we are always helping others. We are working on this. For example, just as we were settling in to meditate, our friend Jef called, freaked out because he thought he was a deck of cards. Instead of jumping up and talking to him right that moment, we continued what was necessary for us. We decided we could deal with him later.  

There is still time to support local legend Mary Buie as she participates in the 2021 “CIBC Run for the Cure” on  Sunday. She will be walking for the event, starting on Rainbow Heights, and welcomes everyone to join. Reach out to Mary to find out more! Donations can be made by searching “CIBC Run for the Cure” online, and then clicking on the DONATE button to search for Mary’s name. 

If you need proof of vaccination, visit http://covid19.ontariohealth.ca to print out your vaccination receipts. If you need help, stop in at the township office or library during their regular hours and someone will be happy to help you. 

Team Fergmeijer is fully vaxxed, despite our recent realization that we rarely finish anything we start. You might say, we have a black belt in partial arts! In an effort at self-improvement, we’ve been working to improve on this flaw and made a point of finishing what we start. So far, we’ve finished a bag of chips, a pint of ice cream and a box of donuts. 

The 4elements Living Arts Elemental Festival was an amazing event last weekend! It was wonderful to see all the people out to enjoy the live music and workshops. Thanks to 4elements for another fantastic event. You out-do yourselves each and every year! 

We were sad to hear that Christmas in Kagawong will not be running this year. We will be keeping our ears open for news of other holiday markets on the Island. 

The Manitoulin Tennis Club members continue to meet at the Manitoulin Secondary School courts, Sundays at 9:30am and Wednesdays at 6pm. Whether you are a tennis ace, or just absolutely LOVE the sport (see what we did there?), all are welcome to come out and play.

 

The newly minted edition of “How It All Began” had an initial printing of 100 copies. Those have sold out, but if you missed getting your hands on a copy, good news! A second printing is in the works and will be available in the next few weeks.  

Many people used the extra time during the pandemic lock downs to hone a talent or learn a new skill. We were no different. Yours truly looked to go old school with learning how to make several common condiments from scratch. It’s tougher than it looks - when churning butter, there isn’t a lot of margarine for error. Have a great week!

September 22, 2021

Team Fergmeijer has been brushing up on our culinary skills. Lately, we’ve been making so much food, we’ve had to share. We made a chicken salad yesterday. We don’t think it was very good though - she only ate the croutons.

At time of writing, local breast cancer survivor Mary Buie has raised just over $1200 so far for this year’s CIBC Run for the Cure, placing her second on the Sudbury fundraising leaderboard! On Sunday, October 3rd, Mary will be starting her walk for the event on Rainbow Heights, and welcomes everyone to join. Reach out to Mary to find out more! Donations can be made by searching “CIBC Run for the Cure” online, and then clicking on the DONATE button to search for Mary’s name. 

Our Manitoulin Mom told us we need to grow up. We were absolutely speechless. Of course, it’s hard to say anything when you have 45 gummy bears in your mouth. 

There is a special council meeting (public meeting) TODAY (Wednesday, Sept. 22) at 7:00pm at the Park Centre to discuss the current lease of the Kagawong Generating Station with the Oakville Energy Corporation (OEC). Two representatives from OEC will be present during the meeting. If you are interested in attending please register with Tiana Mills (tmills@billingstwp.ca) by 3pm on Wednesday September 22nd, 2021. Proof of vaccinations will be required for entry as per the Ministry of Health guidelines.

If you need proof of vaccination, visit http://covid19.ontariohealth.ca to print out your vaccination receipts. If you need help, stop in at the township office or library during their regular hours and someone will be happy to help you. 

Happy birthday to Barb E who is 29 this weekend! We spent a long time trying to list all the words of wisdom we wanted to pass along to you on your special day. It’s still blank. Happy birthday anyway!

The 4elements Living Arts Elemental Festival is this weekend! Enjoy Kagawong River stories, live music, and storytelling! It’s going to be a fabulous event. Musical artists Medusa, and Smith & Stam will be headlining, with more acts throughout the festival, Follow 4elements on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/4elementslivingarts) for more details.

Part of the the Living Arts Festival will be the Gaagigewang Ziibing Dibaajimowinan: Kagawong River Stories, a storytelling nature walk featuring short works, poetry, and song by youth storytellers. Check it out September 25th & 26th at 5pm at the Kagawong River Trail. Starts at the Riverbend Stage parking lot; free admission, with donations accepted. There is limited availability - to book email festival@4elementslivingarts.org

The Manitoulin Tennis Club members continue to meet at the Manitoulin Secondary School courts, Sundays at 9:30am and Wednesdays at 6pm. Whether you are a tennis ace, or just absolutely LOVE the sport (see what we did there?), all are welcome to come out and play.

 

The newly minted edition of “How It All Began” had an initial printing of 100 copies. Those have sold out, but if you missed getting your hands on a copy, good news! A second printing is in the works and will be available in the next few weeks.  

Fun fact to end on this week: Penguins produce an oil that helps their feathers to retain more body heat. It’s true what they say - the oily bird gets the warm. Have a great week!