January 29, 2021

This time last year, we reported on a flock of pigeons attempting to take over the KGB’s territory near Lebar Hill. Given that the KGB (Kagawong Gobble Brigade) have been spotted downtown lately, we aren’t sure if the coo d’etat was successful and the turkeys have been forced to scope out new stomping grounds, or if the pigeons were defeated, and the turkeys are just getting cocky. Either way, they will have to be cautious; the deer run a pretty tight ship in the village proper. We aren’t sure they will take the bird invasion sitting down. 

Have you been feeling the need to move? Desperate to get your groove on? Looking to work off the last few weeks of confinement? Good news! Manitoulin Zumba has gone virtual! Contact Casey via Facebook (Zumba Fitness on Manitoulin Island) to arrange for the Zoom link and payment. 

The village skating rink has been a busy place the last week or two. Thanks to Andrew, Martin, and all the volunteers that make it possible. This year especially it is a fantastic activity for the community!

In the latest installment of “Is this your first time reading the Team Fergmeijer column?” we explore how puns can brighten even the darkest days. Speaking of lightening the mood, watt would you do if you searched on Amazon for ways to light your oil lamp, only to have it say “no matches found?” Filamentary, my dear! Sooner or lighter, results are bound to appear.

The province-wide stay-at-home order has been extended into February. Please do everything you can to keep yourself healthy, and protect the people in your bubble. 

Early On Child and Family Centre is offering free kid-friendly activities online, as well as tips and tricks for parents. They have family fun kits for families with children 0-6 years old. Check out www.mfresources.net or email earlyon@mfresources.net for more information. 

We’ve been looking for a new hobby lately, what with the extended lockdown. We were really excited about taking up fencing over the last week or two. Unfortunately, the police say we have to give it all back. Spoil sports!

The ever popular “Book-a-Book” program is back at the library! Books, movies, and board games - oh my! Although patrons cannot browse the physical library at this time, you can visit the library website (www.billings-library.com) for updated book lists, including new books as they are added. Contact the library (billingslibrary@vianet.ca   705-282-2944) with your wishlist. The staff will do their best to package them up for pickup on the next regular library day. 

The library has also added a new item to its collection - Ontario Parks passes (courtesy of the Ontario government)! That’s right - you can sign out a pass that lets you into any Ontario provincial park for free, AND the librarian will also throw in a $5 coupon for parking! Passes can be signed out for a week at a time. Contact the library for more information. 

Happiest of happy birthdays goes out to former Kagawongian Lloyd N who turned 29 this week. No big party this year, but we know your friends are with you in spirit! Team Fergmeijer will eat at least 2 slices of cake in your honour!

With all the health and wellness references in the news these days, Team Fergmeijer can’t understand what all the fuss is about needing medical training to draw blood. All we need is a red crayon. Have a great week!