May 13, 2026

It is very Canadian to constantly talk about the weather, but when you live in an area that has pretty significant fluctuations in temperature and precipitation from morning to evening, nevermind from season to season, it tends to stay front of mind. Team Fergmeijer is very glad to welcome Real Spring (rather than False Spring that we had been experiencing). Spirits are high and waters are low. Finally, the local waterfront properties are once again just regular properties. Here’s hoping the only things overflowing from here on out are trophy cases, gardens and optimism. 

There is still time to take part in this year’s Manitoulin Streams’ Island-Wide Garbage Cleanup! Send photos of your haul through Manitoulin Streams’ socials or via the submission form on their website (www.manitulinstreams.com). Submit by Friday (May 15th) to be in the running for Community Cleanup Award, School Cleanup Award, Business / Club Cleanup Award, or Garbage Cleanup Hero (1st, 2nd & 3rd place). 

The Old Mill Heritage Centre’s season opener has been delayed until May 23rd. Plans to open on the long weekend were iced due to construction, but staff assure us it is still very much in play. They apologize for the delay but have to wait for the official greenlight before they can safely drop the puck. 

Considering running for office? The next Municipal Election is coming up on Monday, October 26th (save the date!), and nominations for mayor, councillors, and school board trustee are officially open. Visit https://www.billingstwp.ca/townhall/elections for more information. 

Upcoming Seniors Active Living events at the Park Centre: Yoga, Mondays at 9am; indoor walking, Tuesdays at 2pm; Yoga with Sam, Wednesdays at 11am; and Fitness with Kelly, Thursdays at 9am. Contact Mary at 705 348-2285 for more information on any of the SAL activities.

SAL is also offering a fun summer “Grands Day Camp” in July and August for some cross-generational fun, crafts, and skill-building! If you have grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or neighbours aged 5-12, sign up for day camps “Wilderness Ways & S’Mores” and “Creative Alley”. Contact Mary (705-348-2285) for more information or to book a spot. 

We are sending very happy birthday wishes to Kagawongian Sherri C and Kagawong wannabe Leslie M this week. Rather than getting older, we like to think of it as having elite longevity!  

Time to dust off your racquets and start the spring tennis season. The Manitoulin Tennis Club is hosting their annual Black Fly tournament on Saturday, May 16 (rain date Sunday, May 17) at the MSS tennis courts. Play starts at 9am for doubles fun. No partner? No problem! Contact Chris at 705 618-7155 to register. All abilities welcome!

Are you looking for some trom-bonhomie in your life?  Still carrying a torch for your high school trumpet? The Manitoulin Adult Concert Band is up and running! Drop in Wednesdays at 7pm at Manitoulin Secondary for some note-worthy fun that lets you reed-eem some of those musical skills. 

Top cooking tip: The trick to not crying when you cut onions is to not form emotional attachments to them - you have to be non-shallot. Have a great week!