August 28, 2024

 Our faithful readers will know that here at Team Fergmeijer, we tend to see August as the Sunday of the summer. That might not be totally fair to Sundays in general. Sunday might be a little sad, but the day before Sunday is definitely a sadder day. And Sundays always start off great, but then just have a weekend. Although we’ll never forget the time we took our car in for a service on a Sunday. It was such a tight squeeze getting it through the church doors. Regardless, even though we’re almost through the Sunday of the summer, rest assured that whichever day you read our column, it’s always Punday! 

If you are strolling the river trail or stop in at the falls this week, you will notice some new signage has been installed. It is meant as a gentle reminder to locals and visitors that things like stacking rocks, building rock walls or dams in the river or falls pool, as well as disturbing the spawning fish, are all harmful to the overall health of the natural systems and should be avoided. The best policy is to leave no trace. 

The Manitoulin Tennis Club is hosting an end-of-the-summer tennis tournament on Saturday, August 31st at the Manitoulin Secondary courts. Players can compete in singles or doubles. Everyone is welcome. Contact Chris at ctheijsmeijer@gmail.com for more information or to register.

We are sending many happy returns to Kagawongian Susan S and Kagawong-adjacent Amy H who are both turning 29 right around the time this will be printed. Team Fergmeijer stopped at a Mexican food truck before completing the column this week, and while it might be the chips and salsa talking, we hope you both have a birthday that is nacho average celebration. It’s your big day, so get out there and guac and roll! 

Summer in Canada can seem to go by in a flash. Make the most of the swiftly dwindling days by hitting the Wednesday market in Kagawong! Come down into the village and make your way to the rink area Wednesday from 10am until 3pm to check out the over 70 regular vendors at the Kagawong Market.

The regular Wednesday markets are always fun, but the annual evening market put on last Saturday was a unique delight. In case you didn’t know, the amazing Ethel Newburn volunteers her own time to organize the weekly Kagawong markets and the evening market as well. Thank you, Ethel, for the enormous amount of time and effort you put into it all. The markets have become an ‘must-see’ attraction to the town and we don’t know what we would do without you keeping it all running smoothly!  

You’re almost out of time! The township is still accepting name suggestions for the Kagawong covered rink. Proposed names are being accepted at the town office until the end of this week. Check the township’s website or Facebook page for more information. 

We heard this week that the incomparable Tina B is moving on to new challenges. Thank you for all that you have done for the township and we wish you good luck on your new adventures! That does mean, however, that there is an opening at the township office for any interested parties. The township has posted an Administrative Assistant – Finance position and is accepting resumes via e-mail or regular mail in confidence to Véronique Dion, CAO/Clerk Township of Billings 15 Old Mill Road, Kagawong ON P0P 1J0 or cao@billingstwp.ca until 12:00 pm. Friday September 6th is the deadline for applications. Get full details on the township Facebook or web page.

Team Fergmeijer bought a second-hand time machine next Sunday. They don’t make them like they’re going to anymore! Have a great week!

August 21, 2024

We were at the book store the other day and people were throwing around Stephen King books. We couldn’t figure out what was going on, and then IT hit us. Which reminds us, did you know that Stephen King has a son named Joe? We’re not joking, but he is. 

If you are strolling the river trail or stop in at the falls this week, you will notice some new signage has been installed. It is meant as a gentle reminder to locals and visitors that things like stacking rocks, building rock walls or dams in the river or falls pool, as well as disturbing the spawning fish, are all harmful to the overall health of the natural systems and should be avoided. The best policy is to leave no trace. 

As of the writing of this column, Billings township is still under a partial fire ban. Camp fires and fireworks are still permitted as long as you use extreme caution. Other forms of open fire are not allowed. For up-to-date information visit the town’s website or Facebook page. 

Quick animal fact: octopus twins are itenticle.

The Manitoulin Tennis Club is hosting an end-of-the-summer tennis tournament on Saturday, August 24th at the Manitoulin Secondary courts. Players can compete in singles or doubles. Everyone is welcome. Contact Chris at ctheijsmeijer@gmail.com for more information or to register.

Days are getting shorter, nights are getting cooler, and that’s right - back to school sales are starting up again! The annual Grade 9 BBQ at Manitoulin Secondary is just around the corner: on Wednesday, August 28th, Grade 9 students are welcome to spend the day at MSS to get their schedule, learn about high school, find their classrooms, and even meet some of their teachers. The day starts at 10am, with a BBQ lunch, and includes bussing back to home communities at the end of the day. Parents are also welcome to attend! For more information, contact the office at Manitoulin Secondary School. 

Happy 29th birthday wishes go out to the Kagawongians Meg M and Andrew T. Also turning 29 is Kagawong-adjacent Mike Z, and extended Kagawongian family members Tijs T and Emma T. We hope they all have a fantastic birthday, but a word to the wise for their friends and family - keep an eye on this crew on their big days. Everyone knows if you let them shenan once, they will only shenanigan. 

Quick animal fact: most bobcats are not named Bob. 

For students (and teachers), August can seem like the Sunday-of-the-summer, but look on the bright side - there are still plenty of Wednesday markets left! Come down into the village and make your way to the rink area Wednesday from 10am until 3pm to check out the over 70 regular vendors at the Kagawong Market.

And if Wednesday afternoon markets aren’t doable for you, check out the special evening market this weekend! Saturday, August 24th, stop by the covered rink at the Park Centre in Kagawong from 4pm to 9pm and enjoy some after-hours shopping.

Struck by inspiration? The township is still accepting name suggestions for the Kagawong covered rink. Proposed names are being accepted at the town office until the end of this month. Check the township’s website or Facebook page for more information. 

A local restaurant has invented a brand new style of creamy dessert, but they haven’t come up with a name for it yet. One might say it is anonymousse. Likewise, the township has a surprising number of things that need naming (the covered rink, the new tractor, the market/picnic pavilion, the new bridge across the river, this naming contest). In an effort to celebrate all new structures in Kagawong, we are still taking suggestions for our completely informal, not-affiliated-with-the-township, and unlikely to get approval, naming competition. Email fergmeijer@gmail.com and let us know your ideas for any of the nameless entities!

If you have a condition that leaves you with the urge to steal library books, you should really get that checked out. Have a great week!

August 14, 2024

Billings residents are well-known for their sense of humour. How else do you explain their tolerance for this community column all these years? Of course, we think our jokes are fantastic, but if you are interested in measuring the quality of our puns in a more scientific way, all you need is a sighsmograph! 

If you are strolling the river trail or stop in at the falls this week, you will notice some new signage has been installed. It is meant as a gentle reminder to locals and visitors that things like stacking rocks, building rock walls or dams in the river or falls pool, as well as disturbing the spawning fish, are all harmful to the overall health of the natural systems and should be avoided. The best policy is to leave no trace. 

Our Manitoulin Mom was telling us that she saw an audiologist yesterday but was unimpressed with him, so she’s going to get a second opinion. She just can’t imagine why on earth she would need a heron egg.

As of the writing of this column, Billings township has issued a partial fire ban for the region. Camp fires and fireworks are still permitted as long as you use extreme caution. Other forms of open fire are not allowed. For up-to-date information visit the town’s website or Facebook page. 

Happy 29th birthday to Bonnie F who may or may not have reached the age where your back goes out more than you do. 

Welcome to Frank and Margaret who are visiting Kagawong this week from down south. We know which half of Team Fergmeijer is your favourite, but we are both very happy you are here!

Struck by inspiration? The township is still accepting name suggestions for the Kagawong covered rink. Proposed names are being accepted at the town office until the end of this month. Check the township’s website or Facebook page for more information. 

Did you hear about the woman who put snakes in her hair to cure migraines? Yeah, turns out it’s oddly Medusinal.

This township has a surprising number of things that need naming (the covered rink, the new tractor, the market/picnic pavilion, and the new bridge across the river). In an effort to celebrate all new structures in Kagawong, we are still taking suggestions for our completely informal, not-affiliated-with-the-township, and unlikely to get approval, naming competition (which really should have a name… ). Email fergmeijer@gmail.com and let us know your ideas for any of the nameless entities!

We may be half way through August (waaaah!), but there’s still plenty of market left! Come down into the village and make your way to the rink area Wednesday from 10am until 3pm to check out the over 70 regular vendors at the Kagawong Market.

We were going to include a joke about a dead parrot in the column this week, but it was a bit too macawbre. Have a great week!

August 7, 2024

It’s official: we’re now into the dog days of summer. One might think that on these lazy, hot days, there is little to do in a village of only a few hundred people. But to prove otherwise, Team Fergmeijer has called on some of our local community correspondents to update our loyal readers with all the Kagawong goings-on. First up, Sadie has been keeping an eye on local businesses and reports a steady stream of visitors lately. She’s always happy to welcome new faces to the village! Herbert shares that the local night life has been a-bustle with various wildlife, and wants to remind everyone that Kagawong offers tremendous views of any potential northern lights once darkness falls. Just don’t be too late sneaking in back home. Long-time downtown resident Noodin reports that the construction on the bridge over the Kagawong River is progressing nicely. She’s looking forward to the road eventually being open to pedestrians again. Up the hill, Hannah shares that gardens are peaking in colour this week, thanks to hot days interspersed with good dousings of rain. And all the doggie residents of the village (Kaga-dogians?) would like to remind our loyal readers that the off-leash dog park is an excellent place to let off some steam. 

Tomorrow is the annual History Day in Kagawong! August 8th, come by the Park Centre in Kagawong for either the matinée (3:30pm) or evening (7:30pm) session. At both sessions, author & journalist Mike Strobel will speak about the North Channel “Rhu” tragedy, and author & journalist Richard Thomas will celebrate the Chi-Cheemaun with 50th anniversary sailing stories. Don’t miss out! Check out the Old Mill Heritage Centre on Facebook (facebook.com/KagawongMuseum) for more information.

Pride Manitoulin is back! Beginning tomorrow and lasting all weekend (August 8-11) there are activities for all ages happening all over the island, including concerts, creativity workshops, drag shows, worship services, and more. And YES there’s a parade! Check out pridemanitoulin.ca for more information, times, and locations.

Happy 29th birthday to Meg M! Don’t forget to fasten your seatbelt, because once you’re over the hill, that’s when you begin to really pick up speed.

Struck by inspiration? The township is still accepting name suggestions for the Kagawong covered rink. Proposed names are being accepted at the town office until the end of August. Check the township’s Facebook page for more information. 

Along with naming the covered rink (and perhaps the township’s new tractor, and maybe even the market/picnic pavilion), it has come to our attention that the new bridge on the Kagawong River Trail is ALSO without a name. In an effort to celebrate all new structures in Kagawong, we begin yet another completely informal, not-affiliated-with-the-township, and unlikely to get approval, naming competition for the new bridge. So far, submissions include Bridget, Ferrous Bueller, the Kagawong Kauseway, and Team Fergmeijer’s personal favourite, the Punderpass. Also submitted was the completely unexpected suggestion of the Span-ish Inquisition. Email fergmeijer@gmail.com and let us know your pick!

Don’t let the nameless dome deter you… Come down into the village and make your way to the rink area Wednesday from 10am until 3pm to check out the over 70 regular vendors at the Kagawong Market! There is something there for everyone.

Did you hear about the dog that wouldn’t bring the ball back? He thought it was too far-fetched. Have a great week!

July 31, 2024

As we close out the month of July, Team Fergmeijer would like to take this opportunity to be serious for a moment, and shine a light on a little-known cause that is worth sharing: Lasagna Awareness Month. We know our puns tend to be a little saucy, but in all seriousness, ricotta tell you that there are layers to lasagna awareness that go beyond a simple ingredient list. We’re not noodling around - could lasagna be the best meal ever? Pastably. So be grate-ful for this amazing dish, and enjoy a slice for a good cause!

The annual History Day in Kagawong is coming up on August 8th at the Park Centre in Kagawong. In both the matinée (3:30pm) and evening (7:30pm) sessions, author & journalist Mike Strobel will speak about the North Channel “Rhu” tragedy, and author & journalist Richard Thomas will celebrate the Chi-Cheemaun with 50th anniversary sailing stories. Don’t miss out! Follow the Old Mill Heritage Centre on Facebook (facebook.com/KagawongMuseum) for more information.

The township is looking for naming suggestions for the covered rink area, because although we will forever know it as The PickleDome, it would appear some people weren’t happy with that option. Name suggestions for the Kagawong covered rink are being accepted at the town office until the end of August. Check their Facebook page for more information. 

Along with naming the covered rink (and perhaps the township’s new tractor), it has come to our attention that the Kagawong Market Pavilion is in need of a more accurate name since the market moved up the hill. Thus we begin a second completely informal, not-affiliated-with-the-township, and unlikely to get approval, naming competition for the town’s picnic pavilion across the road from the beach. So far, submissions include the Kagawong Kanopy, Picnic Paradise, the Turkey Tent, the Alfresco Experience, and the Chuckle Hut. Email fergmeijer@gmail.com and let us know your pick!

Team Fergmeijer received a lovely compliment last weekend from long-time fan, Mary N. While we strive to report on the recent goings-on in Kagawong, we admit our info about the geographical region around the Thames River isn’t very… current.

The totals have been tallied! The Billings Public Library would once again like to thank everyone who stopped in and added to their to-read pile by purchasing books at their annual used book sale a few weekends ago. The library raised over $2000 at the event! If you missed out, fear not - you can still check out some books (and games) from the library, Tuesday through Saturday from 9am until 5pm (closed 12noon - 1pm for lunch). 

Happy birthday to Willa W who has a birthday sometime around now, as well as Lisa H. Happy 29th to you both! We have two birthday tips for you: 1) forget the past, you can’t change it, and 2) forget the present, because we didn’t get you one. 

What’s that? You haven’t yet been to the Kagawong Summer Market? Be sure to come down into the village Wednesday from 10am until 3pm to check out the over 70 regular vendors! There is something at the market for everyone.

The Manitoulin Tennis Club meets twice a week, and welcomes players of all abilities to come out and play on Sunday mornings at 10am and/or Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm, both at the Manitoulin Secondary School courts. 

Our words of wisdom for this week: Life is like lasagna. It’s all about what you pack between the layers. Have a great week!

July 24, 2024

Team Fergmeijer are well known for their love of getting out in nature - hiking, canoeing, camping, etc. (maybe one of us more than the other but whatever). This love of the great outdoors has us looking to one of our favourite philosophers of nature - the US National Park Service - for our words of wisdom this week. Their social media posts have helped us learn and grow in really important ways with advice like “Believe in yourself like park visitors who believe they can pet bison” and “If you drink a lot of water, you won't have time for other people’s drama because you’ll be too busy looking for a bathroom.” They also have our safety at heart with cautionary warnings such as “Your chances of getting hunted by a turkey is low, but never zero.” Their advice tends to be both practical and profound at the same time: “One does not simply become a master of karate. First, you must accidentally walk into a spider web” and helps us navigate tricky social situations: “If you come across a bear while hiking, never push a slower friend down…even if you feel the friendship has run its course.” 

The township is looking for naming suggestions for the covered rink area, because although we will forever know it as The PickleDome, it would appear some people weren’t happy with that option. Name suggestions for the Kagawong  covered rink are being accepted at the town office until the end of August. Check their Facebook page for more information. 

And don’t forget Team Fergmeijer’s completely informal, not-affiliated-with-the-township, and unlikely to get approval, naming competition for the town’s recently acquired new tractor. So far we have a good start with some new submissions including Attract Her, Sir-Chugs-A-Lot (or Lady Chugs-A-Lot), and Muddy Buddy. Email fergmeijer@gmail.com and let us know your pick!

The Manitoulin Tennis Club meets twice a week, and welcomes players of all abilities to come out and play on Sunday mornings at 10am and/or Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm, both at the Manitoulin Secondary School courts. 

We have another big group of folks celebrating birthdays this week. Many happy returns go out to Jen C, Meredith C-N, Mike C, Dawn N-M, and Beth G. We hope that just like our puns, you never get old!

A huge thank you goes out to all the volunteers who helped to make the library book sale another wonderful success. Many books found new loving homes and the funds raised all go to support the public library!

The annual History Day in Kagawong is coming up on August 8th at the Park Centre in Kagawong. In both the matinée (3:30pm) and evening (7:30pm) sessions, author & journalist Mike Strobel will speak about the North Channel “Rhu” tragedy, and author & journalist Richard Thomas will celebrate the Chi-Cheemaun with 50th anniversary sailing stories. Don’t miss out! Follow the Old Mill Heritage Centre on Facebook (facebook.com/KagawongMuseum) for more information.

The township is hosting a public consultation session and an open house tomorrow (July 25th) at the Park Centre. From 2-4pm you can head to the second floor to learn about Oakville Enterprises Corporation and the power generation that happens on the Kagawong river. From 2-6pm you can stop in downstairs to voice your thoughts on how the township should use the ‘Graham’s Hill’ property. Seniors’ housing, municipal garage, recreational trails… let the ideas flow. The more input, the better!

One last bit of National Park Service wisdom to wrap up this week’s column: There’s nothing wrong with following your heart, but it never hurts to check the map, too. Have a great week!

July 17, 2024

Did you know? The United Nations declared 2024 the International Year of Camelids (IYC 2024). The Year highlights how camelids (such as camels, llamas, and alpacas) are key to the livelihoods of millions of households in hostile environments across over 90 countries. Not sure how to celebrate? No prob-llama! Your best pal-paca Team Fergmeijer will get you over that hump! So, pour yourself a glass of llamanade and enjoy the jokes and puns in this week’s column. We are confident they aren’t an alpaca-lapse in judgment.  

Don’t forget about the ongoing PickleDome naming contest. Name suggestions for the Kagawong  covered rink are being accepted at the town office until the end of August. 

Team Fergmeijer loves a good competition, so we are pleased to announce a (completely informal and not-affiliated-with-the-township) naming competition for the town’s recently acquired new tractor. In first place is Tractor McTractor-Face but also in the running are Tiller Swift, The Mower Ranger, Darth Blader, Tractosaurus Rex, Wheely Willy, and the Tillage Tycoon. Email fergmeijer@gmail.com and let us know your pick!

The Manitoulin Tennis Club meets twice a week, and welcomes players of all abilities to come out and play on Sunday mornings at 10am and/or Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm, both at the Manitoulin Secondary School courts. 

No one is afraid of llama kisses, so why is everyone so worried about the alpacalips?

Happy birthday wishes go out to a bevy of Kagawongians: Linda R, Ardiss F, Arik T, Ethan T, and Carol G (who is Kagawong adjacent, but we don’t let that stop us) are all turning 29 this week. We hope your big days are absolutely llamazing!

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Kagawong Show and Shine car show last Saturday, and thanks especially to the Billings Parks, Recreation, and Wellness committee for sponsoring the event!

Thanks also to the Billings Public Library for hosting the beach movie Saturday night. We all learned that it doesn't matter if you win or lose, it's what you do with your dancin' shoes!

We tried to phone the spiritual leader of Tibet once, but was sent a big goat with a long neck instead. We must have phoned Dial-a-Llama by mistake.

This weekend, July 20th, the Billings Library is hosting their annual book sale and a local author showcase on Saturday (11am-3pm). Come on out to the picnic pavilion and get your read on, and ask the township librarian about having your library card llamanated. Also that weekend, the Manitoulin Art Tour will spotlight a number of Billings artists in the region over the course of the entire weekend - don’t miss out! Finally, the island-wide Household Hazardous Waste Day is also on July 20th. Residents of Billings Township can bring their batteries, old electronics, paints, and chemicals to the Mindemoya Roads Building that day from 1pm-4pm for disposal.

The annual marine service at St. John’s Church is this Sunday, July 21st. The service starts at 9am and all are welcome.

Riding a camel isn’t as hard as you think, though it does have its ups and downs.

Save the date! The annual History Day in Kagawong is coming up on August 8th at the Park Centre in Kagawong. In both the matinée (3:30pm) and evening (7:30pm) sessions, author & journalist Mike Strobel will speak about the North Channel “Rhu” tragedy, and author & journalist Richard Thomas will celebrate the Chi-Cheemaun with 50th anniversary sailing stories. Don’t miss out! Follow the Old Mill Heritage Centre on Facebook (facebook.com/KagawongMuseum) for more information.

This week’s words of wisdom: Llisten to your heart. Do your best to llook on the bright side. Llet your hair down once in a while, and llearn to llaugh more. Llive and llet llive, and most importantly, llove llife! Have a great week!