Preserving History - Improving Accessibility- Pondering the Future : by Marg Knott

‘Preserving History’ became an interesting topic at the recent Frontenac Islands Council meeting when Terri-Lynn Brennan, representing the WI Historical Society, and Paul Banfield, Archivist Queens University, encouraged council to begin (again) to store township historical records at the Queens’ Archives. The township already had a contract with the them, initiated in 1988. The WI Historical Society has availed itself of the service. In her presentation Dr. Brennan noted that “ the township has environmentally inadequate, limited storage space, nor accessibility for local public archival research. The Queens’ Archives, located in Kathleen Ryan Hall, provides storage space and storage vaults for documents, etc., a conservation lab, and the Frederick J. Gibson Reading Room for research. It is recognized as the best medium size archives in Canada,” she said.

And, of course, anyone who knows the WI Town Hall can easily recognize the building’s space limitations, as well as the effort required to retrieve council documents from its upstairs space. Recent renovations at the town Hall may make that a little easier and does provide a little extra storage.
At the meeting, with the reinstatement of the 1988 agreement, between the University and the Township, for the transfer of documents, , CAO Plumley will coordinate with the Archives for the transfer of township documents to storage at the Queens University facility early in the new year, and for 8 years thereafter .

The Wolfe Island community is proud of its history maintaining, much of it at the Old House Museum, at the local library, and through the Historical Society. As well as through the island’s many story tellers, writers, artists and artisans. Perhaps islanders need to think about what they have hidden away and for the sake of history, set up an agreement as well to localize it and save it for posterity.

• Thinking about Accessibility: Frontenac County’s Manager of Legislative Services Jannette Amini presented the Frontenac Accessibility Advisory Committee report to council. It is the nitty gritty of the report that is important to the community at large.
  The County’s Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) assists both county and township councils in enabling the disabled to access all opportunities in the county, the workplace and the community, as encouraged and outlined in the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.(AODA) Amini outlined the duties of the Frontenac County’s Accessibility Advisory Committee, of which you may not be aware. One specifically states that the committee review the site plans, and drawings, from the townships as they relate to accessibility, section 41 of the Planning Act. The report highlighted the new Wolfe Island Seniors Apartment Building, a project geared to accessible living. And, Mr. John Weatheral is the recipient of the ‘Frontenacs 2017 Accessibility Award’, for his donation of land for that project.

“ Creating barrier free communities through accessibility planning will enhance the county’s goal of sustainability in both the social and economic pillars of the county’s sustainability plan. And, for this community as well” Amini said. The full report is available on the Frontenac Islands website: frontenacislands.ca

In other council business: 1. They extended their agreement with the Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA)to provide environmental plan review services to the municipality until the year 2020 focusing on the natural hazards, heritage and water quality. 2. A new schedule “F” is being prepared for the WI Transfer Site relating to costs charged to events requiring an event application form for waste bin, haulage, & tipping fee.
3. Pat Sanford will once again operate her Stone Heron Gallery from June 15th to September 9th, 2018 at the WI Township Community Hall. Hall Rental fees are up for 2018 budget deliberations. 4. Additional hours added to Simcoe Island ‘s ferry service extending it to midnight, Sundays only.

Around town: ** Very quiet on Wolfe Island these days. But the ferry is generally full. ** It was chilling to read in the Frontenac News that during Frontenac County’s budget deliberations a cheaper ambulance service for Wolfe Island came up. Suggested was that the ambulance stationed on Wolfe Island could be replaced with a cheaper option using a single paramedic and a first response vehicle coming from Kingston. And when asked Paramedic Services Chief Charbonneau, agreed that that scenario was a good fit for Wolfe Island and would serve islanders as well as the phased-in traditional ambulance located on the island . Nothing came of it. However, that was one week after Chief Charbonneau ‘s clarification of the WI Paramedic Services three-year phase-in process with the island staffed 365 days a year beginning January 1, 2018 ?

COMING EVENTS **VON Exercise Wed & Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall-.10 am-3pm. **WI Christmas Parade, Dec. 9th at 1pm

Prior to the November meeting of Frontenac Islands council, a special meeting was to held to receive an overview of the Preliminary Design and Class Environmental Assessment for the Wolfe Island and Ferry Docking Improvements to date. This was given by MTO’s Tina White, Senior Project Manager, and Sharon Westendorp, and little has changed since the last public presentation on Wolfe Island. It was noted that changes incorporated into the designs will allow for a free flow of water around the Marysville terminal to prevent water stagnation. Concerns remain at the lack of parking at the Kingston and Marysville terminals, also concerns with the safety of the proposed pier at Dawson Point. Many questions arose about ferries, provisions for the handicapped on ferries, and at terminals. To a question about the possible cost of docks, White said “the cost of a dock can go from $25millions upwards to $50millions.” A TESR report must be approved before the EA can be considered complete and you move on to design. The detailed design may happen in July 2018. The public will continue to be consulted and kept informed.

At the regular meeting of council that followed, there was an agenda item with exciting news of the reconstruction work identified by MTO for the road from the Marysville terminal to the Dawson Point terminal. The road is not suitable to carry any added construction traffic on it, and MTO has offered to support speeding up the township’s rehabilitation of the roadway on its current platform. They will provide funding for the design, supervision and construction of the rehabilitation, if the township leads the environmental assessment process. The township passed a resolution to enter into a “Work By Others Agreement” to be drafted between the Ministry of Transportation and Frontenac Islands Township. It states that MTO will provide funding for the design and construction of the rehabilitation to happen in 2018 and will offer a project manager to work with the township following their direction, the use of the Ministry’s design service provider currently on retainer to complete the design work, as well as a construction administration service provider to oversee the rehabilitation work during construction. The design work is to proceed in parallel with the negotiation for the Work by Others legal agreement. “ great help from the province” and “there no is question that portion of the road from Dawson Point to Marysville certainly requires major work,” residents commented.

Wolfe Island Fire Chief Hawkins, in full uniform, was on hand to address council concerning the purchase of required breathing apparatus, specifically the MSA Breathing Apparatus, at a cost of $84,797 plus taxes, payable in Feb. 2018. Chief Hawkins explained the need, was authorized to proceed. How the expense will be dealt with by the Fire Department will come up during 2018 budget deliberations.

WI Resident Astrid Muchella presented a case for the township to take the lead in the eradication of noxious vines, such as Dog Strangling Vine, along with the many others she identified as invading the township. Astrid, and many other residents, are working at removing the vines which can destroy trees and shrubs, disrupt the life cycle of birds, and butterflies. Her original request was for a bag collection pick up. Her presentation will be posted. This township-wide issue will also come up during budget talks.

Councillor Bruce Higgs had written a letter to council members with regard to the legal case, as initiated by certain HI citizens, of agricultural vehicles boarding on Howe Island, and he spoke to the letter at the meeting. He is frustrated with the statement from the October council meeting that the Township of Frontenac Islands, Howe Island ward, was to pay the legal costs of $18,000, which could rise to $30,000. “ Howe Island should not be involved in paying legal fees. We were not involved in the decision nor did we hear a word from the solicitor that led to that decision. I believe the legal fees should be paid by Frontenac County, not Frontenac Township. I understand the solicitor for the county and the council are the same. I think we need an independent lawyer’s opinion as to who will ultimately pay the costs of the ongoing lawsuit based on a county decision to board agricultural vehicles on the ferry,” he said . The Mayor said, ” I agree with you on that,” and said so at County Council with no success.

CAO Plumley will seek out the assistance of an independent solicitor. The November meeting of Frontenac Islands council came to a quick end with all business covered, to allow off island attendees from Howe Island) to catch the ferry. . Much more next week.
Coming Events: ** Lunch Bunch. Nov.22nd, 11;30 am WI United Church”Western Canada **´SENIORS Apartment Opening Sat. Nov. 25th 2pm **VON Exercise for older adults Wed & Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall-.10 am-3pm. **WI Christmas Parade, Dec. 9th at 1pm ** finally. November is Fall Prevention Month, so be careful..

Last week, good news was delivered on behalf of Ontario’s Minister of Transportation Steven Del Duca by MPP Sophie Kiwala, at the WI Ferry Terminal in Kingston. She announced that the Ontario government had awarded a $61-million design/build contract to Damen Shipyards of the Netherlands. It was for two ferries, one for delivery to Amherst Island (300 passengers/40 vehicles) in 2019, and the other for Wolfe Island (399 passengers/ 75 vehicles) in 2020. She was joined by Mark Gerretsen, MP for Kingston and the Islands, Mike Bossio, MP for Hastings-Lennox and Addington, and she was introduced by MTO’s Eastern Regional Director, Kathy Moore. From Holland, Leo Postma, representing Damen Shipyards, was also in attendance.
REMEMBER? Minister Del Duca came to Wolfe at the behest of MPP Sophie Kiwala to hear about about the extremely difficult situations caused by an inadequate ferry service at Wolfe and Amherst Islands And their grief and frustration, “how much longer can we wait?” they asked. And he said at the time. “I hear you.”
MPP Kiwala said “These new ferries will help transport more than 850,000 passengers and 420,000 vehicles per year from WI to Kingston, and approximately 290,000 passengers and 36,000 vehicles to and from Amherst Island . They will also take advantage of the new propulsion technology, and they will run a cleaner and quieter service than the existing ferries. The Frontenac 2 will serve as a back-up ferry for Wolfe Island and Amherst Island. These new ferries will ensure interruptions are minimized when ferries are out of service for periodic maintenance, or in drydock for the 5 year inspection. Every one in this room knows all about that. Others are still recovering from it. These larger ferries will have a very positive effect on the residents, the economy, recreation and tourism. I am absolutely delighted to bring you this news and to see the continued expansion of infrastructure in our region.”
A surprise announcement that the Federal Government will contribute one third of the cost of the ferries up to “as much $30 million” came from MP Mark Gerretsen. “The Wolfe Island ferry brings so many to people to and from Kingston as well as a huge tourism component. This announcement today is in line with what the Canadian government is doing, rebuilding the infrastructure in our county where it can be done and supporting our provinces and municipalities”. And “This is a fantastic announcement. How do we build sustainability? This is exactly how it should be done,’ said MP Mike Bossio at the closing of the meeting. He added “Wonderful for Amherst, a wonderful community and the whole region . “
Damen’s Leo Postma commented that the ferry design work will be done in the Netherlands, with construction in Romania at Galati, on the Danube. The new WI ferry will sail on her own keel down through the Black Sea to Canada, while the smaller Amherst ferry would be transported on a heavy keel ship. “We have built many ships for Canada”, he added.
Later, Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle talked at length about the years that led up to this day. “ This is indeed a great milestone and I am very pleased that our new 75 car ferry has finally been ordered.“ The Mayor had high praise for the many people, both on council and private citizens, who had lobbied the province very hard for over 20 years to provide improved transportation to Wolfe Island. “ I would like to thank them for there efforts to convince the province we needed improvements, as well as MTO’s Kathy Moore and her staff, who patiently listened to our lobbying and for their participation in many meetings on our behalf held over the years with MTO ministers.”

Doyle referred to a meeting with Senior MTO staff in 2007 by organized by then Mayor Jim Vanden Hoek where it was agreed that a full Environmental Assessment was needed, and they were then asked to support the outcome of this time expensive process. “Many options including a bridge from Wolfe to Howe and onto Kingston were fully explored along with many other ferry and bridge solutions, and, the 2011 EA Planning report recommended a new 75 car ferry operating year round to be supplemented by the Wolfe Islander III in the late spring, summer and early fall busy periods.” Mayor Doyle acknowledged that not all residents support this solution. “But it certainly goes a long way to solve our transportation problems for many years to come, and now that the ferry is ordered, I hope that everyone will get behind this project. Council will continue to stay close to MTO’s ongoing work on this project. (docks, roads, amenities).” he concluded

Coming Events: ** Lunch Bunch. Nov.15th, 11;30 am WI United Church ”Peru & Bolivia” **VON Exercise for older adults Wed & Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall **WI’s Anglican ‘Old Fashioned Turkey Dinner’ , St Margaret’s Hall, Sat. Nov 18. 4:30 pm.-7:00 pm.. ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall-.10 am-3pm. **WI Christmas Parade, Dec. 9th at 1pm ** and November is Fall Prevention Month, so be careful..

It was a very busy summer on Wolfe Island. Between the incredible numbers of people who boarded the Wolfe Islander III walking on, or in a vehicle. Along with the countless service and agricultural vehicles as well as trucks, busses, trailers carrying equipment, construction materials, etc., it was all good for the community. As well, islanders travel to work daily and for a myriad of other reasons. For the most part all of this ferry travel has gone well although the wait times and lineups have been consistently long, with delays at times.
Sometimes an ambulance call will delay the process, either because there is no paramedic on the island, or the ambulance is off the island delivering someone to hospital. In both instances the ferry must wait in Kingston for an available paramedic crew to go to the island, or for the island’s ambulance to return, leaving ferry traffic on both sides waiting. But, causing anxiety to both the island patient and the family waiting with them. Of late there has been some concern expressed by islanders regarding the inconsistent Paramedic Service, when only one paramedic is on the island, or there are no paramedics at all, and there is an emergency call. This concern was brought to the attention of Frontenac Islands Council at their Sept. 11th meeting, and has since been brought to the attention of Director of Frontenac Paramedic Services (FPS), Paul Charbonneau. Council is seeking clarification from him as to why the inconsistencies in service happen, and how soon will they be remedied. They also want an activity report of all calls and wait times for a paramedic, or a vehicle as well, and the response times and service levels of other communities as a means of comparison in the report.
You will remember the transition of the Wolfe Island Ambulance Service from a volunteer operation to a regular unionized paramedic service occurred as of Feb, 2016, with a certain amount of public concern, until the transitional process was fully explained. Statistics indicate only 2% of all calls require immediate hospital admission. The philosophy now is that the ambulance brings the hospital to the victim, and the new, 8 hr. shift and 16 on call staffing, reduces ‘chute’ i.e. response times . To clarify how the service operates presently, the $145,000 cost of the ‘service model’ chosen by Frontenac County Council for WI, resulted in the county’s plan for ‘a phase in’ of staffing days over a two year period. First with 265 days of full service during 2016, then 315 days during 2017, and finally 365 days a year beginning January 1, 2018. Island Firefighters attend every call in their Emergency Service vehicle, assist the paramedic(s) as required, and are First Responders when necessary. Provincial regulations allows only paramedics, or police, to drive an ambulance. The ambulance is always based on the island except when transporting a patient to the hospital.
Around Town: 1. The Township of Frontenac Islands has extended an invitation to the community to help celebrate the Grand Opening of the 5 unit Senior Apartment Complex, on Wolfe Island The celebration will be held on Sat. Nov.25th with the Opening Ceremony at the site at 2pm, followed by tours of the facility till 4:30 pm. Guests include John Weatherall (Scarthingmoor Farms), members of council, staff from Frontenac Islands and Frontenac County, WI’s Seniors Housing Committee, contractors Wemp and Smith Construction Ltd, Hulton’s Construction, Greenwood Plumbing, and Architect Colbourne & Kembal Inc.
2. The Frontenac Howe Islander ferry left for a mandatory four year ‘out of water’ inspection on Oct 29th with an expected return of November 20th. . It is replaced by a non-cable ferry, the MV Quinte Loyalist. It is affected by the wind, as a result relying more on the Captain’s expertise. Please note that during the hours of 11:30 pm to 6:30 am , the Frontenac Paramedic Services will locate an ambulance crew on Howe Island. During the day emergency services will access Howe Island as they normally do.
Coming Events: ** Lunch Bunch. Nov. 8th, 11;30am WI United Church-‘ GREECE’ **VON Exercise for older adults Wed & Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall **Remembrance Day Nov.11th is at the WI Town Hall 10:45 am ** WI artist Debra Krakow presents newest art work at an Opening Reception, at Studio 22 on King Street E, on Sat. Nov.11th. 8:00-10:30 pm ..Join her. **WI’s Anglican ‘Old Fashioned Turkey Dinner’ , St Margaret’s Hall, Sat. Nov 18. 4:30 pm.-7:00 pm.. ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall-.10 am-3pm. **WI Christmas Parade, Dec. 9th at 1pm **and November is Fall Prevention Month, so be careful..

This is the time of year when Wolfe Islanders turn to their community, relishing time spent together, looking forward to hockey games, waiting for the rink to open, a less busy ferry with time to chat with friends and neighbours when on route to Kingston, for whatever the reason. Many boats are already out of the water. The hunting season is underway. Gardens have been cleared. Soy bean crops are regularly leaving the island while it appears the corn needs more time to dry.
It is also a time of worry for those concerned that the Wolfe Islander III will move from Marysville to the Dawson Point dock due to low water levels, and how they will get to work and home again at the end of the day without a vehicle, or a bus available.
The end of the summer is emphasized when Horne’s ferry shuts down for the winter, to open again next May 1st. The Bakery closes along with the Stone Heron Art Gallery. Although with the frequent sunny warm days since school started in September, the ‘Wolfie Café’ at the General Wolfe Inn dock, the Bakery and the Coffee shop opened on the weekends, as crowds of people continued coming, and still do. ‘Lunch Bunch’, the annual fall series of travel adventures presented by island residents continues until Nov. 22nd and has been great fun. The Corn Maze remains open to mid November, and Riverfront Golf Course ‘till ? Maybe until it is too cold to hold the clubs? And WI Bicycle Rentals continue. Of course the island has The WIPP, The Island Grill and the General Wolfe Inn. The Island Grill is now into fall hours, that is closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, reopening Thursdays for dinner with regular hours through Sunday. Interesting to note The Grill prepared and served dinner for the 2017 Ducks Unlimited Dinner held at the WI Fire Hall Oct. 20th, and what a crowd there was on that occasion. The General Wolfe Inn is open daily and, at this time, is taking reservations for Christmas, and has opened the dining rooms for booked events, e.g. wedding receptions.. And, as noted, we are so fortunate to have The WIPP open daily, and James as host. Now is the time that islanders think of Turkey Suppers, Remembrance Day, the Christmas Market , & the WI Historical Society, and special fall and winter community & church and school events.

Recently a Seed Saving workshop was held at the WI Community Garden (WICG) attended by teachers and senior class students from the schools, Marysville public and the Sacred Heart Catholic. It was led by islander Kathy Rothermel, of Windkeeper Farms and the KASSI Kingston Area Seed System Initiative; Cathy Christie, Science Education Teacher, Faculty of Education at Queen’s University, and chair of the Community Garden Committee of KASSI; and Janette Haase, School to Garden Program Coordinator of the WICG. WICG volunteers Kayo Murakami-Woodand & Donna Ivimey were on hand to assist. According to a Face Book release- “The workshop provided an interactive, hands-on learning experience that explored concepts in biology, ecology, math and social sciences. Students shared their knowledge of family farms, food and plants and they saved seeds which they can plant in the spring.” The WICG Project is supported by: Marysville Public School - Parent Council; WI Community Medical Clinic; Community Foundation for Kingston & Area,; WI Records; and individual donors! Another garden is planned for an area near the Wolfe Island Medical Clinic and the Senior Apartment project.

Around Town: Sacred Heart of Mary Church services continue at Sacred Heart School during the renovation of the church due to a fire. Noted in the parish bulletin, ‘the church built in 1917 and was wired for electricity, but electricity did not come to the island until 1938’ . However, the wiring now is being updated to the year 2017. A long wait!

Coming Events: ** Lunch Bunch. Nov. 1st, 11;30am WI United Church-‘ INDIA’ **VON Exercise for older adults Wed & Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall ** Flu Shot Clinic, Sat. Nov.4th, 9 am to 12 pm, WI Medical Clinic

** Take Note: Remembrance Day Nov.11th is at the WI Town Hall **WI’s Anglican, Old Fashioned Turkey dinner, St Margaret’s Hall, Sat. Nov 18. 4:30 pm.-7:00 pm.. ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall-.10 am-3pm.**WI Christmas Parade, Dec. 9th at 1pm **November is Fall Prevention Month

Important issues from last week’s Frontenac Islands council meeting are the focus for this week. And, there are quite a number.
In response to a letter from the Howe Island Ratepayers Association, to investigate their request for the installation of internet connected cameras at each terminal and related ongoing financial costs, Deputy Mayor Natali Nossal noted other large ferry related items are to be considered as well during the 2018 budget process. “As a community we also have to prepare to pay the legal costs for an action (raised by 4 Howe Islanders) about agricultural vehicles accessing the County ferry,” she said. “ The legal costs for 2017 are estimated to reach $30,000. How to raise the funds will be part of the budget process and could be included as a separate line item on the tax bill. And I doubt the cost of cameras would be assumed by MTO at part of their agreement with the township.”

Further issues include keeping the Howe Island foot ferry in working order. The Township intends to rehabilitate the deck and the hull to satisfy Transport Canada requirements, with the Township’s portion of the costs covered by reserves that have been put aside through taxes.

Council received a copy of Frontenac County’s letter of support for a change in how the Provincial Gas Tax Funds can be used. Currently the province provides two cents per litre on a per capita basis to local municipalities for the purpose of supporting local public transit systems, of which the county has none. And this will rise to 4 cents per litre by the year 2022. The resolution, adopting the Ont. Federation of Agriculture’s position: that the Provincial Gas Tax funding criteria needs to be aligned with the Federal Gas Tax funding criteria. This resolution originated with the Eastern & Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus. The Federal Gas Tax program provides municipal funding on a per capita basis without restriction, on a wide range of infrastructure programs. Frontenac Islands supports the Frontenac County’s position that the province should change its grant purpose to the same as that of the federal grant in order to receive such support for the townships.

And speaking of grants, council also received a copy of Frontenac County’s support for a change in how the federal grant for “Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure funds is distributed. Currently the $2 billion fund is for “rural” communities of 30,000 or more. The county stated that this definition of “rural” will eliminate most counties, and rural single tier municipalities, in Eastern Ontario. The resolution to the Province of Ontario requests that they modify the definition of rural for this fund from the federal government to include municipalities of less than 30,000 population, as it is the province that defines “rural.”

The township received the billing for the OPP services for the year 2018. For the first time it does not include wind turbines in their calculations. However, the cost per property has increased by $45.12 (or 21.6%) from $208.35 to $253.35. The total for 2018 will be $352,918.00. For comparison purposes, the billing for year 2015 was $156,490.00 when the OPP began the phasing in of increased costs.

The Township of Frontenac Islands is rezoning the Wolfe Island property where the Seniors Apartment Project is situated to what is legally described as the Community Facility Exception Zone One. That project is rapidly approaching completion with occupancy expected before the end of the year. Council also set the date of December 11th for a Public Meeting concerning the official plan amendment for the St. Philomena Roman Catholic Church property on Howe Island.

Council indicated support for the KFL&A Public Health/ Fluoride Varnish program for children at risk for dental caries. According to Mayor Doyle, the KFL&A Board Chair, “ no one in our region fluoides their water and over half of the people think we do, so it’s a dilemma, but we can get around it with this wash.”

Howe Island Councillor Bruce Higgs brought forward a request for Frontenac Islands to consider “twinning” with a village in Nepal. “I have been involved with this community for over 20 years. Our Rotary built a school there, providing training classes and help. Their children have been educated and many have gone on to university. Now they would like to twin their village of Phulbari, Nepal with our township. It is not about money. It is about knowledge and information. They have a web site” he said. Council welcomed the concept and looked forward to receiving more information from Councillor Higgs and moving forward.

Coming Events: ** Lunch Bunch. Oct. 25, 11;30 am WI United Church- Switzerland **VON Exercise (older adults) Wed & Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall **WI United Church TURKEY SUPPER, at UC Hall, Sat Oct. 28th open 4:30 pm ** Flu Shot Clinic, Sat. Nov.4th, 9 am to 12 pm, WI Medical Clinic Free **Remembrance Day Nov.11th at the WI Fire Hall **WI’s Anglican, Old Fashioned Turkey dinner, St Margaret’s Hall, Sat. Nov 18. 4:30 pm.-7:00 pm..** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall-.10 am-3pm.

The impact of waterfront development, the evolution of seasonal homes to permanent ones, and the impact of cottage, i.e. private road development, became a concern provincially in the 1970’s. And, according to Frontenac County Planner Joe Gallivan at the public meeting on Howe Island, is of concern in the townships . He was fulfilling the requirement for public meetings on Wolfe and Howe, to explain the reasons for a proposed official plan amendment regarding, and much needed, Private Lane Policies . “I should point out that Frontenac Islands has the highest rate of permanent residential housing on private roads in the county,” he said. The amendment, expected to be passed by Frontenac Islands Council in November, will be forwarded to Frontenac County Council for review and approval and release by February 2018. The study was undertaken to look at road standards, condominium roads, and road construction standards and policies.

Moving on to the regular Howe Island meeting of council, planning was again on the agenda where two island consent applications, and a minor variance, were approved as presented by Planner Megan Rueckwald. However a difference of opinion arose between Mayor Denis Doyle and County planner Joe Gallivan regarding concerns raised by Theresa Schneider, a Howe Island land (with waterfront) owner. It was with the township’s assessed value/parkland bylaw passed in 2013. “It comes down to what is the interpretation of what is in bylaw.” Mayor Doyle said. “Is it assessed on the severed lot, or is it on the severed lot and the ‘remaining’ lot ?

According to Gallivan, water front property in the Frontenac’s had been highly undervalued over the years, and in a policy review the 5% value is based on the value of waterfront property now as one parcel. There is a dispute resolution clause in the bylaw that allows a township to get an independent land appraiser, and receive a value at that time, the day before the severance is granted. If the applicant does not agree with that, they can appeal to OMB or alternately council can make its own decision to what is fair market value. Gallivan’s own opinion with the present application was that dispute resolution might be required “because no value has been established,” he said. On the other hand Mayor Doyle said ”what is in dispute right now is what we are charging the 5% on. The way I’m reading this we can only charge on the parcel severed off. The applicant offered a description of the property noting difficult water access and no intent of further severances.

“What determines what part we do choose?” Councillor Nossal asked.” If we choose ‘and’ it is one way, if we choose ‘or’ it is another,” questioning the clarity of the 2013 bylaw. CAO Plumley recommended that the Township have an evaluator available to provide unbiased evaluations. The applicant will provide a recent evaluation to Deputy Clerk Dwyre, and a motion was passed that Parkland Fees be to the severed property, not the property as a whole, and the bylaw document will be reviewed and clarified. As Councillor Hobbs noted “ in the future with the 40 acres of the property in question retained, if it comes up for sale, to be subdivided or anything else, will we get the 5% at that time, not now, but then?” and received a yes answer.

Further council business included the passage of a number of bylaws: The rezoning of the Seniors apartment project to Community Facility, and the 2018 Howe Island Ferry System Fees/Fares Schedule. Concerning the later, Deputy Mayor Nossal said that the information and comments received from the public is enough to form a committee with finance staff, to determine their possible benefits. Councillor Hobbs thanked Deputy Clerk Dwyre for the balance achieved. The Howe Island price of an annual pass for a single vehicle is $260.00.

Public Works Manager Dillabough presented his Actions Pending report. He said challenges continue with the Simcoe Island dock repairs. Regarding ‘Dog Strangling Vine,’ he will look to the 2018 budget for spraying. It is all over the county. CAO Plumley drew attention to the WI community Centre Board minutes (Sept.!8). “A number of people no longer wish to remain on the board and maybe we have to restructure how that board is operating, perhaps more like a committee of council,” she said. The WICB next meeting is Oct. 23rd.

Councillor Grant asked that a letter be sent to MTO, requesting that the Wolfe Islander III be kept docking in Marysville for as long as possible. Deputy Mayor Nossal commended Howe Island Fire and Rescue Fire Prevention Week contest, and the KFL&A Fire Prevention Committee. Citizen W. Knott expressed concern with Road 7051, its lack of lighting and ditch depths. Next week I’ll report on: a ‘twinning request’, a health request, and legal costs in the lawsuit against the township, which were raised.

Coming events ** Lunch Bunch. Oct. 18, @ 11;30 am WI United Church- Ireland and Iceland **VON Exercise (older adults) Wed &Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall **WI United Church TURKEY SUPPER, at the UC Hall, Sat Oct. 28th open 4:30 pm ** Flu Shot Clinic, Sat. Nov.4th, 9 am to 12 pm, WI Medical Clinic Free ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market Sunday, November 26th, WI Fire Hall- Contact: Pat Sanford 613-385-1585.

Recently , Wolfe Island resident Jean Cruickshank informed me that there is European swallow-wort, most commonly known as Dog-Strangling (DSV) vine around the island. The vine, a member of the milkweed family is an invasive and destructive plant, a risk to native plants and habitat. Deeply concerned, Jean having seen damage already done near her home, wondered how that information could be spread widely to the island community as well as the townships. You may have seen Jean removing vines, gathering the pods and bagging it all.
The vine is of equal concern to her husband David Cruickshank, who has written to Frontenac Islands Township in advance of the next meeting of council to be held on Howe Island. (Tues. Oct. 10th). In his letter to council Cruickshank states that “Dog Strangling -Vine strangles not dogs, but trees, bushes and plants near which it gains a foothold. Its root structure rob nearby plants of nutrients - it is a vine it rapidly and eventually, wraps itself around and slowly chokes what ever host it is on.” He notes the Trinity Anglican Church cemetery is full of the vine, as is the sumac growth east of the church on Road 96, some of which has already died. “Unless something is done the vine will eventually kill lilac stands and anything else in an area to which it spreads.” David offered the following advice for vine removal and a cautionary note. “The vine produces seed pods in the Spring. These burst in the Fall, each one disseminating thousands of seeds. If these pods are removed over the course of the summer, and a rigorous programme of cutting back the vine followed, the weed will be controlled and eventually eradicated. To ignore this threat and do nothing is to sentence the greenery of the Island to extinction.”
For more information visit the Ontario Invasive Plant Council website also that of OMAFRA

Have you been giving much thought to the future of Frontenac Islands specifically Wolfe Island, more specifically Marysville? Many people are wondering how things will change with the hoped for new larger boat and a second one operating from the Island. Certainly more people will visit but, will they choose to live here? And how about the Secondary Plan now under consideration with the possibility of changes to Frontenac Islands Official Plan which could and should or is it ‘Only Might” increase the population of Marysville. A secondary plan can provide the policies governing such things as land use, and infrastructure for areas identified in a township’s Official Plan in this case Marysville, on topics such as development, land use, size, infrastructure, transportation, the environment and possibly design. Marysville does not have sewer and water. If the size of the village was extended East to lets say just beyond Rd. 7051 along with village infill, it could happen. No more trucks on the ferry. Increased interest in island living, affordable housing, more families with children to attend local schools.
For example… The main street needs widening with bike lanes through the village and on the roads (once highways). We need an industrial park, public access to the water, a hard look at local forms of public transportation. How are we dealing with accessibility? We need increased LIHN/Public Health family services, home care, urgent care on the island with with a special concern for seniors and the home bound. We need to be open to new businesses. excited about finding ways of presenting the island as open to growth, with concern for the environment and climate change. Does anyone remember when John O’Shea said , “We should be self-sustaining.” ? We need people and infrastructure and the will to do it. The secondary plan discussion along with an improved ferry service offers an opportunity to determine how and if we can. What do you think?

Around Town: Wonderful party for Claire on the occasion of her 90th Birthday. . ** Very quiet in the village during the week, and sunny days have kept people coming weekends. ** Frontenac County Paramedic Services Chief Paul Charbonneau has received the OAPC President’s l Award of Excellence at the Ontario Association of Paramedic Chiefs (OAPC) Awards Gala, given to any person for service in advancing the discipline of para-medicine. “Chief Charbonneau has been an unrelenting supporter of Paramedic Services in Ontario for over four decades” said OAPC President Neal Roberts. Congratulations Chief.

Coming events ** Lunch Bunch. Oct. 11, @ 11;30 am WI United Church- topic “ Russia” **VON Exercise (older adults) Wed-Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall ** Flu Shot Clinic, Sat. Nov.4th, 9 am to 12 pm, WI Medical Clinic Free ***WI United Church TURKEY SUPPER, at the UC Hall, Sat Oct. 28th doors open 4:30 pm ** WI’s Christmas Craft Market is: Sunday, November 26th, at the WI Fire Hall. For information contact: Pat Sanford 613-385-1585.

What a way to begin the fall season, with a Florida kind of summer heat, lasting nearly two weeks. Water kevels are down considerably and perhaps as many Islanders hope, but not all, MTO will be able to maintain the Wolfe Islander III in Marysville through the fall and winter months. Or all year for that matter. Perhaps a decision requiring more debate t might happen as the ferry and docking facilities EA moves to a conclusion. And the township, Wolfe Island ward, undertakes a Secondary Plan for Marysville.

All that aside at this point, however as right now the crops are coming off the fields at a great rate. And the trucks to transport those crops away from the islands. Too often those of us not involved in agriculture per se, other than in flowers or a vegetable garden, for whatever reason, forget that agricultural pursuits are the foundation for what the islands are today. And in terms of volume it is the farmers who continue to use most of the land.

The water that surrounds the islands, was a calling card for those interested in the island beauty it created, the opportunities for fishing, hunting, and the lumber it offered, as well as the opportunities to provide commercial services for the farmers. For instance, stores, black smiths, transportation (horses, ferries), construction ( homes, cottages, hotel, schools, etc.), drawing hundreds to the islands to work . Anyone looking over to the islands could not help but recognize what was there, and the opportunities they might hold. And/or the peace, pleasure and isolation they provided. The Indigenous saw the Islands as a welcome stop as they travelled the St. Lawrence.

When it comes to present day agricultural enterprise on the islands, unfortunately dairy is on the decline due to the prohibitive costs of operation, and retirement of the dairy farmers with no one to take over the farms. Also too few available farm workers, and the closure of the Kraft Plant as a related business. Large scale crop farming is now the order of the day with many land owners renting out their land. Beef on the land is running a close second, or is it first?
Interest in different forms of agriculture is growing and includes more organic growing, market gardening, new crops e.g. hops, seed and crop development, and grape vines. Honey and maple syrup are long time products. By way of animals, horses remain important to the community, and there is a developing interest in goats and sheep among others.

FYI - Wolfe Island’s agricultural history and the history of its peoples, is well documented in the Old House Museum located by the water in Marysville. Well worth a visit!

I Have A Bone to Pick with Kingston: For many years we had grandchildren spending summers with us, who attended the sailing programs at the Kingston Yacht Club. The joy for each of them was the end of the season, the CORK Sailing Regatta in the “best sailing waters in Canada”, so says Kingston, having hosted the Olympics. What I cannot understand is seemingly Kingston’s lack of interest in this event, this sport, bringing hundreds of young people from all over to participate along with parents, volunteers, boats, sails etc. It is an expensive sport due to equipment, and the travel and training costs. But a clean sport, to be sure. One that usually ensures in them with a love of, and respect for, wind and water. And sailors they are. But for some of them, CORK is the last sailing they may ever do, … but will remain a memory of those magnificent moments that took them, far and fast, singularly or by two, THEY controlling the wind that carried them. Why not welcome CORK it in a big way, recognizing the young sailors, their personal stories, challenges and results in The Whig. That would be a Welcome Change! To date, it seems CORK never happened.

Municipal Elections: A reminder: Have you ever considered letting your name stand for election to Municipal Council? Municipal Elections take place Oct. 22, 2018, a year from now. On May 1, 2018 the nomination period begins. It is never too early to begin thinking about what you might have to offer, if you choose to run. Frontenac Islands CAO Darlene Plumley is the ‘go to person’ for Election Information.

Around Town: ** The crowds coming over to Wolfe Island have diminished in size. Cyclists continue to come in great numbers. **The Corn Maze a great place to go now through November. ** Horne’s Ferry in operation to Oct. 17th **Riverfront Golf Course welcomes you.. **Great progress with the Frontenac Islands Seniors Apartment Project
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Coming events ** Lunch Bunch. Oct. 4, 11;30 am WI United Church- topic “ Newfoundland” ** Check out The General Wolfe Inn, The Grill, & the WIPP. **VON Exercise (older adults) Wed-Fridays 1-2 pm St. Margaret’s Hall **Corn Maze Easter Seal Fundraiser Oct 7, 10am to 4pm (all proceeds go to Easter Seals Kids).

The Wolfe Island Plowing Match was held on a great day in September at the Henry Posthumus-Janine Handforth Morningsight Farms The match was attended by 37 plowers. Of this 37, their were 6 teams of horses, 11 antique plows and 20 conventional plowers, nine of whom were juniors, that is under the age of 18.
Wolfe Island's very own Hunter Chown, this year’s Youth Champion for the second time at the Canadian Plowing Championships was one of the judges.
As is always the case there was an excellent exhibit and demonstration of antique plows.On hand with a displays was sponsor BMO, and Wolfe Island’s Friends of Ferals. Bob and Harriet Corkey operated the canteen, And speaking of food, WI Early Years provided each plow person with pie for lunch.

Sponsors and winners of the 2017 Special Trophies awarded that day included:
BEST EFFORT–UNDER 18 Morningsight Farms-Braden Leeman; BEST PLOUGH TEAM WIPP Terry Linton; BEST DRESSED HORSE - George McAllister —Dave Reid; OLDEST PLOUGHPERSON Fargo’s Grocery Store—John Posthumus; YOUNGEST PLOUGHPERSON Harvey Hawkey Award -Leon Eberhard; SAFEST PLOUGHPERSON-Farm Safety Association - Kathryn Maitland; PRINCESS/QUEEN OF THE FURROW-The Grant Family- no competitor; BEST FINISH-HORSE Hulton Construction-Dave Reid; BEST FINISH TRACTOR-Woodman Machine Products-Joyce Buckley; BEST CROWN-TCO Agromart Ltd Craig Hulton; CHAMPION LAND-Lorne Hulton Trophy - Joyce Buckley The Lorne Hulton Trophy for Champion Land of the Day and the Harvey Hawkey Award for the Youngest Ploughperson have perpetual trophies. See you next year.

Too many interesting items came at Township of Frontenac Islands September meeting to let them slip by without a mention. Under the Planning Applications component for instance.

Following Frontenac County Planner Megan Rueckwald, Minor Variance application presentation for a “tear down” the old and rebuild a new 900 sq. ft. cottage with a “portable outhouse” for sewage disposal, Mayor Doyle expressed concern about the outhouse and grey water disposal because of the cottage location near the water. A member of the public also expressed similar concerns.
Deputy Mayor Nossal noted that a compostable toilet IS acceptable but is a portable outhouse? The township will ask Chief Building Officer Lavigne to clarify the situation and to determine what can be added as a condition of the building permit application before it is brought back to the November 13th meeting of council.

1. The Frontenac Islands “Renaming of the highways, streets, roads and private roads bylaw was amended to state that where a request is made to rename a street or road ALL abutting landowners must agree in writing before a name can be changed. A complete list of ALL roads in Frontenac Islands was attached to the agenda “with thanks to Carol and Rob.”
2. Questions also arose with Public Works Manager Rob Dillabough actions pending report. Councillor Grant questioned the slow down of the Simcoe Island dock rebuild and was informed that due to spring flooding the condition of the docks must be reviewed. “Lots more work needs to be done. Cribbing has shifted. The design needs adjusting ,” Dillabough said noting ongoing discussion is ongoing with MTO. ( Review Costs were submitted to Municipal Disaster relief.)
   Councillor Grant wants long grasses /weeds behind the WI Medical Clinic cut when possible. Mayor Doyle is also concerned about long grasses and the need for roadside brushing to prevent situations with deer, and snow drifts. “Situations where we could be liable.” Dillabough noted the work is well started.
   The long wait for County funding available for a new Welcome sign at Dawson Point RD. 7051 was questioned by Councillor Springgay. “Should we do it on our own?”

There a brief discussion related to the Howe Island foot ferry a barge with an open concept compartment that Transport Canada’s says should be a bilge ferry. “Rob is stick handling this with them and MTO. I suggest we just wait and see,” Deputy Mayor Nossal said.

FYI- The annual Road Tour takes place Howe Island, Oct. 5th, Wolfe Island, Oct. 12th both beginning at 9 am.
# Further business: *Speed limit changes from 70 km to 60 km on WI Rd.96 and 725 meters west of on Rd.95 to the 2nd line were approved *A change to the WI Transfer site bylaw related to costs to be assumed for waste disposal (waste bin, haulage, tipping fee) for events requiring an application submission by the event organizer was deferred to Nov.13th. meeting of council

• Are there benefits to growing Hops in Frontenac Islands? That’s what CA Plumley will be searching out now that new WI residents have bought property, planted hops and seek to establish production facilities at the east end of the island for the product that also requires Hydro 1 for 3 phase power *Frontenac Islands authorized 24/7 service at the HI (Foot) Ferry during dry docking of Frontenac Howe Islander and wants MTO’s financial support for associated costs.

Other Business: *Councillor Springgay requested a report of municipal expenses/revenues associated with the Wolfe Island Music Fest. * A letter outlining Councillor Grant’s concerns relating to inconsistent Ambulance
/Paramedic Service on WI and instances of no coverage, nor was Fire& Rescue service called Is going Chief Paramedic/Director Emergency Services Paul J. Charbonneau requesting a resolution to the problem. * A site visit to Big Sandy Bay, revealed limited beach improvement and many trees uprooted. “The summer students maintained the trail to the beach very well,” said Administration Assistant Quist. An expression of thanks to Public Works for a completed LOWER Side Road to Public Works from Councillor Higgs. *WI Resident W. Knott again expressed concern re Rd.7051 and its need to be straightened and his intention to contact MPP Kiwala.

Around Town: The Council Meeting was held in the Community Hall recently vacated by the Stone Heron Gallery. * The Seniors Apartment project continues to move forward. Its looking good.* Sacred Heart Sunday Services are being held at Sacred Heart School Sunday’s am 9:30 am during church renovations**A Reminder- Celebrate Claire Muller’s 90th Birthday Sat. September 30th at 5:30 pm, at a Pot Luck supper. ** October 15-21, 2017is Ontario Public Library Week and ours is among the best. Thanks
Coming Events: Lunch Bunch. Oct. 4, 2017, 11;30 am WI United Church-“ Newfoundland”** Check out The General Wolfe Inn, The Grill, & the WIPP for upcoming Musical Entertainment.

What a month its been! What a summer really. Even without Big Sandy Bay open, people have sailed over to Wolfe Island in great number and enjoyed all the island has to offer. And it was good. Now as fall is upon us, the realities of Public Work Manager Rob Dillabough’s “To do “ list, for Wolfe and Howe Island, confront the township. All of those, as well as the ongoing Ferry EA ferry study, are big time issues for a small municipality and weigh heavily on our elected representatives.

CAG Meeting: The Ministry of Transportation and Morrison Hershfield study team held a last Community Advisory Group (CAG) meeting on Wolfe Island, to review what had been presented at the recent open houses with regard to the Environmental Assessment for the Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking \Improvements study, and to receive the opinions of the members. They now have 3 preferred options for Marysville, Kingston, and Dawson Point, and are now proceeding with the next steps of municipal, provincial and federal agency consultation. From those consultations they will prepare the Transportation Environmental Study Report-(TESR) and, if accepted they will prepare documents for tender issue for the rebuilding the three ferry docking terminals. They hope to achieve the TESR by year end.

Concerns of the CAG members included: truck turning in Marysville, lighting, the very long distances to walk in Marysville and Kingston to get to the ferry lineup, thus more vehicular traffic, and deep concern that there is no parking in Marysville or Kingston on the docks. Passenger building designs received criticism: too big, too far apart, too much window. As did the spit at Dawson Point: dangerous, as well as the need for more security, telephone, cameras, etc., there. Also no docking spaces indicated for other boats that might come into Wolfe Island, Dawson Point, or Kingston was noted, as was the lack of a WI municipal boat launch. Also noted was that the plan does not include any improvements in Marysville, road, lights, parking, etc. All such were said to be instead the responsibility of the township!

MTO welcomes your input and opinions at this time, and asks that you fill in a short survey as part of their ongoing operational study available at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PR6TZ3P
Private Road Policies Meeting: According to Frontenac County Planner Joe Gallivan, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs determined that they would no longer approve any development of private roads. So to that end the county undertook a Private Roads (Lanes) study, with regard to the continuation of possible development on such. “Frontenac is waterfront development. Socially and economically it is part of who we are and we wanted it to stay that way. The study has provided a series of legal and land use planning rules and tools for that purpose, as a way we could continue to have some kind of development on private lanes across the county,” Gallivan said.

He noted that in the last number of years there have been lot changes with cottages from seasonal to permanent residential, with building permits being given out in the townships. The consultant was required to produce draft OPA’s (Official Plan amendment) for the 4 townships including policies that deal with: seasonal use private roads; road construction standards for extensions of existing private lanes; infilling and extension policies for new lots on existing lanes; policies for the creation of new private lanes. It’s up to the County now. A major step forward.

Frontenac Community Planner Megan Rueckenwald provided some of the numeric details i.e.: that Frontenac Islands has 81 private lanes, 414 residential dwellings, 43.8 km of private roads, etc. As well as an overview of the proposed amendment and the “decision tree”, that is to be used in the planning process for private roads. Will all of this solve the problems the township has with some private roads now? Generally, no. A Q&A followed. All public comments from citizens will be received and considered as will those at the Tuesday, October 10th, Council meeting on Howe Island where Proposed Official Plan Amendment Private Lane Policies will also be presented, and considered for adoption. The proposed bylaw amendment is posted on the Frontenac County Website under Planning at: http://www.frontenaccounty.ca/en/corporate/StudiesProjects.asp. The regular September Council meeting followed. Next week: Council news

Around Town; *There was wonderful weather for the WI Plowing Match held at Morningsight Farms. Competitions have been held since 1947. **And speaking of plowing matches, Hunter Chown won the Youth Championships for the 2nd time at the Canadian Plowing Championships held in Walkerton. * * Frustration with the ambulance service has been noted in the community. . **Kingston and Wolfe Island friends— come Celebrate Claire Muller’s 90th Birthday Sat. September 30th at 5:30 pm, at a Pot Luck supper in her home in Marysville, Wolfe Island. Best Wishes Only.

Coming Events: Lunch Bunch. Oct. 4, 2017, 11;30 am WI United Church-“ Newfoundland”. ** The WI Historical Society’s AGM takes place Wed., Sept.20th, 7:30 pm WI United Church Hall. ** Check out The General Wolfe Inn, The Grill, & the WIPP for upcoming Musical Entertainment

It has been a wonderfully busy summer for Frontenac Islands in spite of the flooding and rather inconsistent weather. The saddest outcome of the flooding was the closure of Wolfe Island’s Big Sandy Bay for the season due to high water levels, essentially no beach. (Many residents were also affected by the flooding.) Another weather situation with heavy rain left overnight campers attending the WI Music Festival soaked but the sun shone bright an. beautiful for the Main Stage event the next day. And in spite of rain visitors come and music slated to play outdoor patios simply moves inside.
*For the last number of years Howe Islanders attend a barbecue marking the end of the children and youth baseball program organized and run by resident Mike Hart who also organizes the barbecue, and the fun, games and awards of the event including fireworks This year’s late August event, was a “little different”, according to Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal..
“The ball games began at 6:30 with the youngest teams and played right through to the final youth game. We all wore FRONTENAC glasses (promotional glasses from the County) It became a Canada 150th event once the ball games were over and the 50-50 draw was done (won by Robin Clark). The lights dimmed and the best ever fireworks ” she said. “Mike really knows how to put on a good show, I tell you it was a great night. Lots of fun for all. Along with the barbecue and the extras there was a Howe Island Celebrates Canada’s 150th cake and 150th souvenirs. “I’m glad we twinned the Canada 150th with the Ball League’s end of season, already a really an important event for the community. Mike. deserves a lot of credit,” Nossal concluded. (Mike Hart is recognized for his good work with children and youth as well as leading the community in other sports activities.)
*Deputy Mayor Nossal also spoke of a recent community meeting called by the township to allow Howe Island residents to offer suggestions and proposals concerning the collection of fees and fares for the two ferries that service the island.(Howe Islander & Foot Ferry). County representatives included Director of Corporate Services/Treasurer Susan Brant, Chief Paramedic/Director Emergency and Transportation Services Paul J. Charbonneau, Deputy Chief of Performance Standards Gale Chevalier. The meeting was chaired by Mayor Denis Doyle . All members of council were present.

“This was another great community gathering and the idea of people submitting ides and proposals ahead of time was very good,” she said. “ It started out with a brief presentation by Susan Brant outlining how money (passes,tickets etc.) is allocated. We had some of that information out ahead of time but it was good of her to do that. Then HIRA’s Bruce Humphries spoke to a proposal already part of the agenda highlighting parts of it for county consideration . This was followed by a presentation by HI resident Terry Botten. A back and forth open and varied discussion took place on fees and fares. This was an opportunity for everyone to put their cards on the table… This was a brainstorming meeting, what I like to call the start of the conversation. It was not a meeting to make any decisions, We heard from people we haven’t heard from before and from others with commercial concerns. It was good to have so much of the community together and appeared not a problem that it was a summer meeting Deputy Mayor Nossal concluded. FYI Once approved the minutes of the meeting will be posted on the Township website.
Around Town: *Its time to acknowledge the hard work of the MTO summer students with us on Wolfe Island and in Kingston through out the summer. While it is considered a good job it’s not always an easy one. Public tempers flare with the long waits, the long line ups with no parking left close by if travellers choose to walk on, and others try to slip into the line up. Thank you for your service, Adam Moodie, Jake Patterson, Mairead Corrigan, Emilie Turner, Zoe Tremblay Good Luck as you begin another school, college/university year or train for another job. We will miss you. **Kingston and Wolfe Island friends are invited to Celebrate with Clair Muller on the occasion of her 90th Birthday Sat. September 30th at 5:30 pm at a Pot Luck supper at her home in Marysville (Wolfe Island. Best Wishes Only. ** WI Community Medical Clinic- Summer Walk-In Clinics Tues. (4:30-6:15pm), Thurs. (5:30-7:15pm. **Jason’s ‘hops’ are way up there.. ** Harvesting has begun. ** The Community Garden group and MPS and SH schools made sauce with Okee’s Farm tomatoes hopefully for a joint school lunch in fall.

Coming Events: Lunch Bunch begins for another season. Oct. 4, 2017 Watch for details ** WI Plowing Match Sept. 9th. **Wind Tower Appreciation Barbecue 209- 4th line Sept. 10th 11am-2pm ** Frontenac Islands Council meets Sept. 11th Special Meeting 5pm, followed by regular meeting at 6:30 pm. Check Frontenac Islands website.

At the invitation of the Ministry of Transportation, and Morrison Hershfield Ltd., Wolfe islanders attended a third, and final round, of Public Information Centres (PICs) on Wolfe Island, and in Kingston. They were held to provide the public and stakeholders an opportunity to review, and discuss, the evaluation and selection of the preferred docking alternative for each ferry terminal, Marysville, Dawson Point, and Kingston, with members of the MTO and the Morrison Hershfield Ltd. Project Team.
Morrison Hershfield Ltd. has been conducting the $1.8 million environmental assessment of the potential for adding a 75-vehicle ferry to the route and rebuilding the three ferry terminals, both on and off shore, including changes to the marshaling areas, larger dock & mooring facilities, improved pedestrian and cycling facilities, terminal facilities etc. The Aug. 23rd& 24th PIC’s followed a “drop-in” format. This is also the first time the MTO has conducted an EA for the addition of a second ferry to an existing route.
A steady flow of Islanders dutifully lined up to read the content and view the pictures on the boards set up around the Sacred Heart School gymnasium outlining and updating the study material. It included content from the 1st & 2nd PIC meetings and the accepted plan for the three docks, along with the usual graphics and artists renditions. At the 1st and 2nd PIC’s many were unable to visualise all vehicular traffic accommodated on the ferry dock itself, with no traffic lined up on the Main Street of Marysville. T here were requests for improvements to the road to the Dawson Point dock seen as dangerous , too narrow etc.
This time round, an impressive computer generated video, with animation, of the proposed three new docks in Marysville , at Dawson Point and in Kingston was available for continuous viewing. It contained some text but no audio and the visuals were spectacular. And watch it they did, more than once…. As Case DeRuiter put it, “the video sure helps get all this in perspective.” For those not able to attend check the website.. http://www.wolfeislandferryea.ca
Some people were anxious. Others annoyed and frustrated with the process. “It all seems too much,” some said. “all we need is a second boat,” said others, and of course comments about a bridge came up as well. “Wouldn’t that be cheaper….?” Others are excited about the future.. and what it could mean for tourism, the business community, economic development and possible growth. “It’s progress, not ours to reject,” was the sentiment from some older members of the community who have always just wanted MTO to recognize that time was as important as capacity and two boats operating on the half hour was what they see as the best solution, now and into the future….as it was way back when. Members of the community are divided on the use of Dawson Point, maintaining that both ferries must come into Marysville year round. Others suggest Dawson Point for trucks, agricultural and service vehicles, primarily going east or west and avoiding the village if that is not there destination. Others concur with use of both.
The study indicated that at the Marysville dock all parking and marshalling to be built for the new 75 vehicle ferry would extend into the water. The Dawson Point terminal requires some land purchase for parking and an extended pier out into the water to give some protection against wind and current fluctuations. The Kingston dock shows vehicles loading at the east end of the dock with wider passenger waiting areas on the dock. A land purchase may be required. No parking remaining is shown at the city dock.
Funding… With regard to funding, it was confirmed that the costs have been profiled (written in) to the long range plan for spending in the province. Which means all this could really happen. Not guaranteed, but really could happen.
MTO is looking for feedback on the new docking proposals, see the above website, and encouraged everyone to submit their comments, and to complete a short survey at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/PR6TZ3P Letting of the contracts for the two ferries, one for Amherst Island, the other for Wolfe is expected this fall, as told to Mayor Doyle at the AMO conference.
It was a good gathering. While concerns remain, there was a sense of optimism and excitement in the air and a continued willingness , in fact an eagerness, to continue participating in the process and to cheer on the Project Team… as they move into the next phase.
FYI-Upon completion of the Transportation Environmental Study Report (TESR) 30-day public review period, the formal Environmental Assessment process will be completed allowing the Project Team to proceed to Detail Design and ultimately to construction.
Around Town: Marysville continues busy with guests and visitors, in spite of wild weather spurts. * Horne’s Ferry had a bad time for a couple of days but is back fully in service. ** The WI Gift Shop open until Labour Day.
Coming events: **Wolfe Island Plowing Match September 9th at the Henry and Janine Posthumus Farm.** WI River Front Golf Course, for Info: 613-385-9978 **The Corn Maze is now open, for Info call: 613 385-1998

In the midst of all that has been going on throughout the township this summer with many, many, tourist friendly events, Senior Apartment construction, community garden projects, intense farming/gardening, and music music music, the township of Frontenac Islands held its regular August meeting of council, this time on Howe Island.
Much of the meeting revolved around the issues that affect the municipality most during the summer months, the ferry and, particularly this year, water levels & sewage contamination. And it was in that spirit, and in light of Waterkeeper’s Kingston and Wolfe Island Cultural Festival, a celebration of Great Lakes Voices, and their ongoing focus on water quality, that council supported MPP Sylvia Jones (Dufferin-Caledon) private members Bill 141 ‘to report all instances of sewage bypasses to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, and to make that information available to the public no longer than 24 hours after being reported. ‘
Frontenac Islands is located at the extreme east end of Lake Ontario, and all the water upstream from the Great Lakes flowing to the Atlantic Ocean passes around the islands. And, more importantly, it is that water islanders depend on for residential use through shore wells accessing Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, as well as for recreational swimming and fishing. Any debris and contamination, from any sewage bypass material, that enters the water from communities upstream contaminates islanders’ water supply. In home water treatment equipment is a requirement with shore wells and cisterns. The village of Marysville does not have a water tower.
Mayor Denis Doyle spoke of the water as “our most precious resource”, reminding council members of Water Keeper’s mandate to inform the public about water issues, e.g. sewage bypasses as they happen, and the need to capture and treat sewage in order to protect health, provide information and decision making opportunities for “swimmable, drinkable and fishable communities.” A letter in support of the private members Bill 141 will be forwarded to the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, to MPP Sylvia Jones and MPP Sophie Kiwala, to Eastern Townships bordering on the St. Lawrence River to Cornwall, and Lake Ontario Waterkeepers.
FYI: Waterkeeper Mark Mattson and WI’s Rick Lindgren, of the Canadian Environmental Law Association, worked together to draw attention to the impact sewage pollution was having in Kingston, as well as Wolfe Island. That was 10 years ago. As of May 18th, Kingston Utilities with its combined sewer system is the first to have the new sewage overflow alerts “Know Before You Go” website, a tool for protecting public health on the water.
In other business, public meetings are required under the Planning Act for a Zoning By Law amendment for the Senior Apartment building, to recognize it as a permitted use . Also for an Official Plan Amendment regarding Private Road Development, Frontenac County Council approved a roads planning study analysis in July(2016), now formally recognized in the County’s Official Plan it is being implemented in the four townships. The private road policies will affect development on both Howe and Wolfe. The Public Meetings to receive public comments on the proposed Township Official Plan amendments, to provide land use policies to control development on private roads are: Wolfe Island Monday Sept. 11th at 5 pm in advance of the regular September Council meeting (6:30 pm) and *Howe Island, Mon. Oct. 10that 5pm in advance of the October Council meeting.
FYI: Mayor Doyle met with Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca and ministry officials at AMO, to discuss when the order for the new 75 car ferry for Wolfe Island would be made. In a quick call, Mayor Doyle indicated that the ministry could not promise a contract by the end of September 2017 “but they are close and we were assured it would happen sometime this fall so we look forward to seeing the signed contract between September 21st and Dec. 20th 2017,” he said. “We had a good discussion on moving the Frontenac II to Wolfe Island to operate on the opposite schedule of the Wolfe Islander III during the busy summer season, once the new Amherst Island ferry is delivered. They could not give an answer on that but will see what they can do.” None of which is dependant on the (long drawn out) Wolfe Island docking facilities EA. “The transition of the roads from Dawson Point to Horne’s ferry back to MTO is still under discussion and is included with a number of similar requests from other municipalities according to the Minister Del Duca,” Mayor Doyle concluded. He encourages residents to attend PIC’s to voice opinions on dock development.
Coming Events:** MTO is holding two final (PIC’s) Public Information Centres, one on Wolfe Island Aug. 23rd 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart School, and in Kingston Aug. 24th, 4 -7 pm at Holiday Inn, Kingston Waterfront Bellevue North Room, with regard to the Environmental Assessment for the Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking \Improvements study undertaken last year. **Wolfe Island Plowing Match September 9th . ** WI River Front Golf Course, for Info: 613-385-9978 **The Corn Maze is now open, for Info call: 613 385-1998

It has been awhile since Wolfe Islanders heard from MTO (Ministry of Transportation) with regard to the Environmental Assessment for the Wolfe Island Ferry and Docking \Improvements study undertaken last year. The good news is that MTO continues to move forward toward greater capacity for the Wolfe Island ferry service. MTO will be holding two (PIC’s) Public Information Centres, one on Wolfe Island Aug. 23rd 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart School, and the second in Kingston Aug. 24th, 4 -7 pm at Holiday Inn, Kingston Waterfront (Bellevue North Room).

This final round of PIC’s provides the public, and stakeholders, the opportunity to review and discuss the EA process with the Morrison Hershfield Ltd /MTO Project Team. And to provide input on the evaluation and selection of the preferred alternative for each terminal Kingston, Marysville, Dawson Point and all that includes, and perhaps to talk about the ferry service itself and the promised ferries. A Community Advisory Group (CAG) meeting will be held sometime in September after the PIC’s.

Islanders will remember also the public visit of Minister of Transportation Steven Del Duca to Wolfe Island, with MPP Sophie Kiwala, in October 2015 at which time he talked about the EA process for a second ferry to increase capacity with a design process beginning in 2016. It was good news indeed to be informed that MTO would move on the process of procuring two new ferries, one 40 car ferry, requiring no EA since it does not increase capacity, for the municipally operated Amherst Island Ferry Service, and one 75 car vessel for the Wolfe Island Ferry service.

MTO issued a request for qualifications (RFQ), for the design-build of the two ferries, going forward as one project in the procurement process and running concurrently with the ongoing Environmental Assessment for the Wolfe island ferry dock improvement project. That EA is scheduled to be completed in this year. The ferry procurement process to acquire the design-build firm could take up to 10 months, and should be (?) completed this year as well. When a short list of qualifying shipyards is developed, the second stage of the procurement process, the (RFP) Request for Proposals will be issued. Minister Del Duca came back last year to the region to let Amherst Islanders know that the contract for their new 40 car ferry would be awarded and, when complete and in service, the Frontenac II would become the back-up ferry for Amherst and Wolfe Island, a promise he made on his original visit to Wolfe island. That decision alone means there could be two ferries operating at Wolfe Island in 2018 or 2019, maybe? But -According to a Provincial Government website, designing and building the new ferry for Amherst Island is expected to take approximately 24 months, while the 75 car ferry for Wolfe Island will take an additional 12 months. Approximately one million passengers and 500,000 vehicles travel between Wolfe Island and Kingston each year, while approximately 270,000 passengers and 130,000 vehicles travel to and from Amherst Island annually. And I understand the contract may be issued this fall.

Its been quite a summer for Wolfe Island. With the closure of Big Sandy Bay due to high water and damage at the site, revenues are down with fewer people coming to the island, one would assume. Not so. There are more and more walk-on’s, with cyclists also on the increase. All great for business but most ferry runs leave vehicles behind. There is no doubt Wolfe Island needs a second ferry. With the water so high it is expected that the Wolfe Islander III may continue running from the village indefinitely. But the ferry line in Marysville can be quite dangerous with the curve in the road, its narrowness and trees causing passing difficulties for people coming into the village from the east end of the island, and for large trucks attempting to get into the lineup. Also for those determined to speed their way into and through the village. The MTO students, for the most part, are conscientious about moving cars forward to fill in spaces in the lineup
But they can’t change the road the cars are on.

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Around Town:** The Winners at the Family Ball Tournament, 28 teams competed. “A” team Winners: Kyle Team. “B” team winners: A. Lollar Team. Debbie Knox Trophy to Bolton Family team(sportsmanship); Rietzel Trophy to the E. Hulton oldest mixed team; F.Lollar Volunteer Trophy to Harry & Mary Hulton. Congratulations to All. ** Hops growing well at Jason LaSalles’. ** Looks like a new hops site is developing on the 16th line? **Wonder if anyone is signing up to raise goats or considering dairy? ** Kingston’s Mayor Patterson was asked if he would like to see goats at the PRISON Farm. “I wish,” his answer. ** Great fun , great music all around town during the Family Ball weekend.
Coming Events: ** WI Boat Club 12th Annual Barrett Bay Regatta, Sun. Aug. 20th, 8 am- 6 pm **Wolfe Island Plowing Match September 9th. ** WI River Front Golf Course For Info: 613-385-9978 **The Corn Maze, Info call: 613 385 1998

Any one driving along Road #95 North can’t help but notice a new building under construction behind the Wolfe Island Community Medical Clinic and the Paramedic Services and Fire Hall (Emergency Services) Building, at the end of Division Street. It is close to the Community Centre Grounds, on land gifted to the township by landowner and friend John Weatheral. It is in sight of a developing new community garden.
The building is the first Wolfe Island (5 unit) Seniors Apartment Project under construction in response to a community survey some years ago, that confirmed a strong interest in and need for senior accommodation on the island. What residents said they wanted was a facility that was affordable, in the village, operated locally and offering safety, independence, socialization and the opportunity to remain on the island.
Three years ago Frontenac County decided, in its Strategic Plan, that one of their top three projects over a five year period was to see a five unit senior apartment building in each of the four townships in Frontenac County. They hired a consultant and approved $335,000 for each of North, South, Central and Frontenac Islands Townships, to help them move the projects forward. At this time, the Wolfe Island project is the first actually under construction.
A Frontenac Islands, Wolfe Island Ward, Senior Housing Committee of Council was formed to finalize the building design and construction schedule. It includes Mayor Denis Doyle, Councillor Wayne Grant, Brian Scovill, Kathy Horton, Mikaela Hughes, Walter Knott, & CAO Darlene Plumley (secretary), with advisor Patrick Thompson.
All of their many meetings, open to the public, led to the first call for Expressions of Interest from Design & Build Contractors . Division Street, to the site was completed, as well as the required land survey. The formal acquisition, transfer and clearing of land given by owner, John Weatheral (Scarthingmoore Farms), was also completed. A water line was set in place. In December 2016, the RFP (Request for Proposals) was issued outlining in detail the type of energy efficient approximately 4,500 square foot building, with four 1 bedroom units, one 2 bedroom unit and a common area, which the township was seeking. They would finalize the design and drawings based on the committee’s specifications.
A contract to build was signed with Wemp and Smith Ltd., in early 2017 ensuring construction would begin in early spring. A ground breaking ceremony due to heavy rain held at the WI Community Hall in Marysville, provided an opportunity for the public to get a sense of what to expect and to meet Frontenac County staff, including key members, the WI Senior project committee members, and Wemp and Smith Construction company representatives. Rental applications for Wolfe Islanders were, and are, available at the WI Town Hall. The non smoking facility will have floor heating throughout. The estimated $1,000.00 monthly rental (one bedroom) and $1,200.00 (2 bedrooms), includes heat and hydro. A refrigerator, stove and other amenities will be provided for each. For information contact CAO Plumley at: 613-385 -2216.
Construction of the facility began in late May, and Wemp & Smith vehicles and trailers continue on site daily. What is the status of the project now? Construction is moving forward quickly with completion possible by late summer, on schedule and ready for occupants in October.
FYI: With the $335,000 from the County, the township as owners and managers of the facility, intend to finance the amount to complete the building and recover it from rental fees, thus not requiring any tax dollars to cover costs, and a mortgage to that effect is being arranged.
Around Town: **The WI Inn mural continues to take shape. ** Much activity around the WI Boat Club and township dock. ** Trailers already arriving for Family Ball Tournament. **Flowers looking lovely in the Village. ** Many more people walking on the ferry. Wolfe Island parking at Sacred Heart of Mary Church within walking distance to the boat. ** Did you know John Posthumus (and his spinning wheel) is at the WI Old House Museum Tuesday and Fridays?

Coming Events: **Kingston Wolfe Island Culture Festival final week —Closing Ceremonies & Great Lakes Pledge signing promise to protect a swimmable, drinkable, fishable future for all, hosted by Lake Ontario Water Keeper Wednesday, August 9 at 7 PM - 9 PM @ Kingston Yacht Club. **Wolfe Island Plowing Match September 9th. Location to be determined. ** WI River Front Golf Course For Info: 613-385-9978 **The Corn Maze, Info call: 613 385 1998. ** WI Music Festival Aug. 11& 12 WI Community Centre Grounds. For info:wolfeislandmusicfestival.com

Amazing really. In the last month Wolfe Island, Marysville in particular, has become what can be called in tourism terms a “destination.” Its been a busy summer, on the island with different events happening weekend after weekend, and people coming and going, in spite of ‘iffy’ weather. And the closure of Big Sandy Bay, an important tourist component, due to the flooding that has affected the conservation site and access to its beach and dunes.

Frontenac Islands Mayor Doyle is optimistic however. “ The dunes took thousands of years to happen with the wind and waves blowing across the water. In spite of what’s happened, when the flood waters finally recede, there will be a lot more sand on the beach, the wind will blow and the long slow process of rebuilding the dunes will begin again,” he said. The Big Sandy Bay Management Area is owned by the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, it is operated by the Township of Frontenac Islands and is one of the township’s biggest tourist attractions. The township will be looking for ways to reinforce the dunes with MNR.

Yet, in spite of its closure, this summer people are lining up to visit the island. Not only are they lining up to come on the weekends but during the week as well. More and more of them are leaving vehicles behind and walking on the ferry, too small to accommodate the numbers of people and vehicles waiting. And boats of many types: sail, luxury, fishing, also Sea-Doo’s, etc. anchor not far off shore in the village bay or come right in and tie up at one of the many docking areas at The Island Grill and The General Wolfe Inn, both in the heart of the village. Welcomed not only by the lights and sound of music wafting over the water, but by islanders as well.

Historic Horne’s Ferry, on Wolfe Island , an important May 1st to late October international route to the USA, also experienced some difficulty with water overlapping the dock at times during the high water period, but is maintaining a regular schedule.
The Wolfe Island Grill has 26 boat slips, a covered side patio should it rain, a restaurant, outside patio and a regular variety of musicians, good food and, among other things, their own Wolfe Island Springs Craft Beer. Just down the street, the licenced “Wolfie”, owned and operated by the General Wolfe Inn, has an accessible out door patio, a light menu, and a music space and boat docking facilities. The Inn itself, accommodation /restaurant, is open for business. The Inn’s new owners have big plans for the place. Islanders often ask about the formal dining room, so popular years ago. A large new mural of a very young General Wolfe is underway on the side of the Inn.
And there is the WIPP (Wolfe Island Pub and Pizzeria). You just never know what James Kirkham has in store for you but you are sure to get a warm welcome. The Dreamcatcher Inn, though for sale, continues to receive guests. The Stone Heron Gallery, behind the Town Hall, is open Thursdays through to Mondays. The WI Craft shop located beside the Gallery, the Old House Museum and the Information Centre are open most days. Bill Speers’ Cycle Wolfe Island, bike rental, is a busy place too. The WI Boat Club Book Sale continues. Fargo’s, The Bakery, great coffee, and ice cream … a great place to visit.
As Wolfe Island waits for the second ferry promised by the province, one can’t help thinking about what the island will need to accommodate the many more visitors who will come our way. Perhaps a child friendly motel, a camp ground, more businesses, shops, a local transportation system, more houses, bike lanes…water…. What do you think?
Around Town: *Best Wishes to Vernal Yott, 95th years of a good life. Mr. Yott is a veteran of the Merchant Marine during the 2nd World War, much loved and respected by all who know him. ** Hats off to the MTO Summer students who keep the ferry lines tight, and moving. Great Job. ** Date of the 2017 Wolfe Island Plowing Match is Sat. September 9th. Location to be determined. . ** WI River Front Golf Course a great place to play. ** The Corn Maze, Open August 1st to mid-November 2017 For info call: 613 385 1998.
Coming Events: **Kingston Wolfe Island Culture Festival 6th week **32nd Annual Family Ball Tournament, Friday/Saturday August 4/5th at the WI Community Centre Ball Diamonds. ** Fish Fry, St. Margaret’s Hall 4:30-7 pm. (Mundell Fish) July 4th Call for take out 30 minutes in advance. Perfect for Ball teams. Call (613) 385-2202 ** WI Friends of Ferals (WIFF) 2nd Annual Yard Sale Sat. Aug. 5th (9am to 3 pm) across from the WI United Church Anything large to donate? Call Harry for pick up at 613 385 2532. ** WI Music Festival Aug. 11& 12 WI Community Centre Grounds. For info:wolfeislandmusicfestival.com

Myths , legends and artefacts, was the title for the Wolfe Island Historical Society’s recent gathering held in conjunction with Lake Ontario Waterkeeper’s “Kingston and Wolfe Islands Cultural Festival”. A photo exhibit of artefacts recovered from island soil in the 1960’s, many from Brophy’s point, was on display at the United Church Hall. The artefacts are held at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau. The remainder are stored at Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum (R.O.M.) in Toronto. Waterkeeper’s Rebecca Harrison, welcomed everyone with a reminder that their vision “ for a swimmable, drinkable, fishable Lake Ontario began on Wolfe Island”, and the festival theme is to celebrate the Great Lakes with story and song. Presenters were Wolfe Island residents Terri-Lynn Brennan, Program Coordinator for Kingston’s Community Engagement and Education Division of Cultural Services, and the WI Historical Society’s Brian MacDonald.
“My ancestry, indigenous, and my background, archaeologist & teacher, has provided me with the opportunities to learn about the ways and how people have moved across Turtle Island, North America, and what that looks like,” Terri-Lynn said. Her topic as she described it, was to talk about everything prior to European contact .

“Indigenous history has been amassed over thousands and thousands of years. I would like to say we are situated on the lands of the Wyandotte, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee, perhaps better known to you as the Algonquin, Iroquois and Huron. It is just a matter of reclaiming the language. Instead of saying Algonquin, say Anishinaabe; instead of Huron, -Wyandotte; Iroquois, Haudenosaunee.”

Holding up a hand drawn map, colour coded to identify what were actually the language groupings of the people who lived across North America, and Turtle Island, she said there were seven main groupings. “People lived very happily for thousands of years. Yes, there were battles in times of natural living situations, drought for instance, and people moved. But what it does show is that people moved a lot. And people shared basic language.

“Just as in English, we share a Latin route that came from Southern Europe, each of these seven is from certain dialects and each of these indigenous languages have showed up. People who have lived from Yukon to Alberta , they actually share a language route with the Apache in the south west. All of the Algonquin language is the green. For some coming from Manitoba for instance they might share a language with someone from Sudbury. But that speaks to the nature of all these fluidities of language and cultures that existed prior to European contact.” Terri-Lynn said. “ For my ancestral language which is Mohawk and very difficult to learn, I cannot have any conversation except Ojibwa.”

From about 1000 BC to 1600 AD there was a continuous Indigenous culture with different styles of pottery and stone work, burial goods, tradition and languages. Brophy’s Point fits in line with that and was a fishing village. There were difference between languages and cultures and people identified as hunter gatherers, or agriculture. And this island was shared. All the islands were shared,” she said.

Much began changing at the time of European contact when 20 million Indigenous people lived across Canada based on the identified sites. Today there are 1.4 million (self identified) according to Brennan. And after 300 years the Indigenous population looked nothing like it does today.
Ms. Brennan reminded everyone that the WIHS would like to see the return of the artefacts to the island. “Part of why we are here is to talk about the life and existence of this particular space and collection out of sight, to us. And what can we do to bring it home,” she said as she looked over the pictures commenting, where each artefact came from, its age, whether before or after arrival of Europeans. Questions followed. More such gatherings requested. Note: Map missing bright red: Shoshone, Ute, Yaqui, Aztec

Brian MacDonald presented a detailed story and updated information about Ardath, the Island’s “Old Castle, the origin of the “Old Survey” and land transactions around the development of Marysville all supported with screen projected pictures taken at various times and a history of “the Castle” supposedly built by David Allen Grant for his wife the Baroness de Longueuil who died in 1806, but it was built in 1828 noting some dates don’t coincide with others. Most islanders have Ardath because it burned in 1925, maybe because of “kids smoking”. Brian was able to identify many of the people in the pictures naming many of them…. Going’s, Kingsley’s, etc up to and including mystery writer Grant Allen, born 1848 who lived at Ardath, until age 13, later to live in England. WIHS President Hank Connell assisted in the presentation.
Wolfe Island’s Old House Museum, is a place anyone interested in island history should visit. It’s walking distance from the ferry dock. Well worth a visit. Map missing bright red Shoshone, Ute, Yaqui, Aztec
Coming events:*Fish Fry (Mike Mundell), Aug.4th, St. Margaret’s Hall 4:30-7pm Adults $15.00 Children 12 under $6.00 Take Out CALL (613) 385-2202 at least 30 minutes in advance, up to 5 pm on the 4th Orders can also be placed Aug.3rd For information call 613-385-2202 or email: livesey45@gmail.com If you can, leave car in Kingston, and walk 4,5 or 6 ferry .

Frontenac Islands Receives Positive Audit KPMG representatives Rebecca Prophet and Lori Huber attended the Township of Frontenac Islands July 10th meeting to present their annual Audit Findings for the municipality. At the outset the report stated that beyond an adjustment for future costs for closing the landfill site and converting it into a transfer site, the figures for 2016 for the township were as provided by the township .

They identified a decline in the financial assets of cash of nearly $1 millions from the previous year, but with an increase of over $200,000 in the investment account. However, the receivables increased by nearly $650,000 due to the delayed collection of the HST rebate from the federal/provincial governments, since received, and over $500,000 due from the province for ferry subsidies for the past two years, not yet received. ‘Tangible’ assets (mostly equipment) increased by over $500,000, and other assets (roads, etc.,) increased by $400,000. But the depreciation of all assets continued, with use for a cost of $1.47 million for the year.

The report indicates that the township had used 56% of the “useful life” of its tangible assets by the end of last year, when compared to the average for the other Frontenac townships at 63%, and 50% for the average in Eastern Ontario. KPMG also reported that the total reserves, and reserve funds, had increased to over $4.0 millions. This was equal to some $3,339 per household, compared to $1,860 in the other Frontenac townships and $1,441 average for Eastern Ontario. Another way of considering the numbers was to compare the total reserves and reserve funds as a percentage of operating expenses in the year. For the islands it was 89%, compared to 72% for the other townships, and 52% in Eastern Ontario.

Finally they compared the average tax bill, (township property taxes only) per household and for the islands it was $1,493, for other townships $2,493 and in Eastern Ontario $2,253. One can conclude the township is in good financial shape, and must continue to replace its assets as they are used. But with solid reserves and a low tax bill, it has the financial ability to do so. Mayor Doyle expressed thanks for their report.

Moving on, Public Works Manager Rob Dillabough’s Actions Pending report, was followed by a number of questions. |One specifically regarding the purchase of one electronic speed monitoring sign (and brackets) for use by both islands. “ You don’t mind if Wolfe takes it first and keeps it through the month of August? ”, Mayor Doyle asked. “We have very heavy traffic this time of year and at different times will need it at the east and west roads to Marysville to remind people of the 40 km per hour speed limit entering and through the village.” Howe Island will have the sign in September. The $5,200 cost is in the budget. Looking through the report Councillor Springgay said, “ I have never seen so much on a plan that’s being done, and completed, so thank you Rob.” There was a chorus of thank you ‘s .
Council accepted the quotation for a new Kubota engine for the Howe Islander ferry ($9,124.94 plus HST) from Tim’s Truck and & Equipment Service. It will replace the spare that the township maintained as a backup until used when the ferry’s engine failed. In terms of better and more professional communication, the township has adopted ‘Operating Procedure 14’ for use with their two way radios, appropriate call signs, radio terms, transmissions clear, & short.
CAO Plumley will follow up on the status of XCG Waterworks study that was thought to have remained open for an extended period. It is expected water will come up during Secondary Plan discussions.
The Township will submit a claim to the Municipal Disaster Recovery Assistance program for assistance for incremental and capital costs incurred since May 5th as a result of the flooding. Eligible costs to date exceed $64, 692.00
The dangers of renaming streets and roads came up, as doing so can affect delivery of Emergency Services. The original name of the road in question remains Evergreen Way.
Other Business: Frontenac Islands will respond to a recent provincial proposal, to regulate (re do) the municipal asset management plan, with a letter to Minister Bob Chiarelli indicating that Frontenac Islands wants an exemption to the July 24th date to submit comments , indicating that it is neither useful nor warranted for small rural municipalities, and a request that the province offer dedicated funding to conduct asset management planning.
The August Meeting of Council will be held Tues Aug.8th at 6:30 Howe Island. A Howe Island “Fares” meeting will be held Aug. 29th,, St. Philomena’s Hall.
Around Town; *Seeing is believing the number of people walking on and off the ferry, and the number of cars and service vehicles of every kind travelling to the island. . *The Village is surrounded by boats these days, docked and enjoying the sights and sounds. Lovely…
Coming Events: *Watch for Water Keepers activities. **Family Ball Tournament Aug. 4/5th ** Anglican Parish Fish Fry Aug. 4th . St. Margaret’s Hall 4:30-7 pm. (Mundell Fish). ** WI Music Festival Aug. 11& 12

Wolfe Island was alive with activity, with people, with music, food , horses and most important of all, a spirit of excitement in advance of Canada Day 150. On June, 27nd (Multicultural Day in Canada), a Strawberry Social was held at both island schools , Marysville Public and Sacred Heart Catholic. According to a WI Network face book entry regarding the Strawberry Social event, “Aboriginal people celebrate Strawberry Moon in June as a time of reconciliation, a time of letting go of judgement and of self-righteousness, a time of welcoming everyone regardless of differences.” The social was a time of teaching through stories, music and dance with special guests and the ‘ Highland Metis & Fiddlers Demonstration’ . The students and staff formed two groups and joined 4 different activities organized for them. The event organizer was Kelly Maracle, Indigenous Student Support & Engagement person at the Limestone District School Board, and well known to the island community. The social gave pause for thought.
Earlier that week the Lake Ontario Waterkeeper’s ‘Kingston and WI Cultural Festival’ running from June 23- Aug. 12, th held their opening ceremony which included a Musical Showcase at the General Wolfe Inn, now under new ownership. Rain poured and music played. The “Lit” Festival to be held outdoors at Brophy’s Point the next morning was cancelled due to wet weather. But many activities and challenges are underway during the coming days including the Haunted Walk of Kingston, Waterfront Edition Wed. July 12th 8 pm. Check out www.waterkeeper.ca for further events.
There was music as well at the WI Grill with people arriving off the ferry, umbrellas in hand and without vehicles. The bright lights, and the many boats anchored around the patios at the General Wolfe Inn and The Grill, cast a welcome glow. At The Grill it was an occasion for owner, Casey Fisher, (also of The Mansion in Kingston), and founder of WI Spring Craft Brewery, with brewery partner Brew Master René Ziegelmaier, to presents the brewery’s inaugural products, ‘Billy Bishop Red’, ‘Lighthouse Lager’, ‘Orange White’ and ‘Wolfenstein Cannon Ball’ ales..
The Stone Heron Gallery owned by Pat Sanford opened for another season in the Township Community Hall. The Gallery is home to a number of well known local artists. It is accessible, and open Thursday to Monday, 10 am to 5 pm.
And then it was July 1st Canada Day. The previous day and throughout the evening horse trailers and house trailers began arriving for the ‘4th Annual Round Up’ held at the WI Community Centre Grounds. This 2 day event involves two riders, sorting a handful of cattle. You don’t have to be an experienced rodeo rider or even a ranch hand to be a part of this exciting sport. It’s all about team work. The event includes a Youth Class. The grounds were full with many returning participants. This major event is planned and offered by Islanders Erin and Rob White, and family. Following a full day of events. a steak dinner was served to all the participants under the roof of the WI Rink prepared on site by a team of volunteers led by Yvonne Compton. The ‘Round Up’ is a community event and has exceeded more than 90 participants and 300 teams. It has many sponsors and is welcomed by local businesses and this rural community. And as a Rob and Erin would say, “Thanks for coming. See you next year.”
There was a Canada Day Pancake Breakfast held at the WI United Church, decked out for the occasion with Canadian flags and decorations. More than 250 people attended, including Mayor Doyle and his wife Betty. They have dropped in, or attended, all of the events which make up part of the important summer tourism season on the island
Mayor Doyle also cut the ribbon at the formal opening the General Wolfe Inn’s new waterside patio, and also welcomed the reopening of the Inn, “This place means a lot to Islanders. We are glad to see it open and welcoming again.”
On July 2nd the 37th annual WI Classic Road Race was held with close to 200 participants. It was competing with many others around Kingston. It, as well as the Kiddie Kilometre, started from the Inn’s new patio and ended as it always does by the water where medals were presented. Thanks to all the many volunteers and to the Timing Service that pitched in. The Race is a fund raiser for WI Medical Clinic. In 2018 the Classic will be held on Sunday, July 8th to avoid competing with other races.
Planning a visit to Marysville? Leave your car. Walk on the ferry. Enjoy the village, and the ferry ride home.
Around Town: There is a Wonderful Canada 150 Birthday sign at the MacDonald Farm, Road #96. The Family goes back to the May Flower ** Big Sandy Bay remains closed..* Ferry lineups are becoming longer and longer. Please, Minister Del Duca, any relief in sight?

Two open Houses were held in the township of Frontenac Islands, one on Howe Island, the other on Wolfe Island. Their purpose to receive comments from island citizens as the township considers allowing more residential lots to be created in its rural designated areas. The geneses of both was the same, ‘should the 3 severance per parcel of land as it existed as of Jan. 1, 1985 be increased or left as is.’ Council is seeking direction and possible changes to the Official Plan.
Before amalgamation in 1998 Howe Island did not have an Official Plan, Wolfe Island did, but had no policies to limit severances on a land holding. The current policy that allows for three severances from a property of record as of January 1st, 1985, was based on an approach used by the Frontenac County Land Division Committee.
Frontenac County Director of Planning Joe Gallivan, attended the open houses to provide the information required in order “to reset the date for severance allowances” or not. Presently if one has the land size required they can have a maximum of three severed lots, for example, and many have already done that. Reset means going back to zero and as of a new date to have two or three lots severed.”
“We are here to provide you with some facts,” Gallivan said.. “There will be a formal meeting, under the Planning Act, in August or September and a report to council with recommendations. This gives you time to think about this issue and provide us with your thoughts. My response to the question, can there be different policies for Howe and Wolfe Islands, would be yes. You have very diverse geography, Wolfe Island has a village, Howe Island does not. Howe waterfront lots have already been developed. While there is a lot more rural land on Wolfe than on Howe, and there is a lot more development land on Wolfe than on Howe,” he said. “It could well be that we have two different policies for severances.”
Gallivan said the Frontenac Islands population is projected to grow by 25% over the next 25 years. For Howe 160 more people by 2036, for Wolfe, 325. The latter to change with a 2nd ferry coming to Wolfe Island. He noted that a 2013 Howe Island transportation study conducted by the township indicates that the foot ferry and the County ferry would stay in place with service expected to be over capacity by 2026. Waiting in line after 3 full ferry trips is considered over capacity. Thus transportation is a concern.
Planner Megan Rueckwald, and Kevin Farrell GIS Specialist, presented a detailed analysis of the study of all the lands within the rural designations that could be developed. This information is available on the County website. It shows the effect of changing the policy to allow one severance on Howe Island to would create 145 building lots. Allowing 2 severances would add 95 more, with 3 a further 73, so with the current 39, there could be 313 lots in total. Each additional severance on all properties would be under current regulations concerning lot size and frontage.
A Q&A followed . On Howe Island it is transportation and waiting times, numbers and kinds of vehicles at peak times etc. not the number of houses. Howe Islander Mike Quinn commented on the situation. ” In the 70’s we had a 3 car ferry. In those days the leadership felt it was time to increase capacity and they brought in a 9 car ferry and growth continued and that vessel wore out and was too small. And another followed. If the ferry is inadequate it’s time to look again at that connection. I am absolutely opposed to restricting additional severances. I think that there is a lot of land here that residents wish to sell off as part of their retirement. I happen to be one of those. Better we look at the ferry and with good planning we will get through this,” he said. Other voices concurred. But for others it was a ferry at overcapacity already. How do you deal with the question of severances? ‘How well does the official plan deal with land planning and transportation at the same time?’ ‘We seem to be preparing for severances and not for capacity.’ ‘I think what we have done here is put the cart in front of the horse.’’ We have to address the transportation issues’.
On Wolfe Island, same topic, same information but also with a focus on the secondary plan for the growth scheduled for Marysville. Questions pertained to more severance on properties, smaller properties, and services, etc. The effect on Wolfe/Simcoe of added severances were….one added, opened 308 lots, 2 gave 232 more, and 3 severances some 183 more, and when added to those now available (110) would give a total of 833. Planner Gallivan encouraged everyone to submit their comment sheets to their municipal office and also to direct their concerns to council for consideration.
Coming Events: . **The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival: June 23 - August 12, 2017. **Big Sandy Bay remains closed.

Land Use Diversity Grows on Wolfe Island by Margaret Knott
Of particular interest to the community, and in the spirit of the 1st Wolfe Island Garden Party, Richard Allen, Frontenac County Economic Development Manager, hosted a panel discussion with members of the island’s agricultural community, about the opportunities and challenges of their work, and to share their stories held at the General Wolfe Inn. “Some of you, generational farmers and others relatively new, will contribute to the agricultural story we gather today. Part of my job is to share and to encourage young people and others to consider the things that are our strengths,” he said in addressing panelists Hank Connell, Jason Pyke, Cathy Rothermel, Trudy De Ruiter and Jason Lacelle. Here is what they had to say:
Hank Connell: a retired school teacher, owner operator of Sugar Woods Farm (maple syrup,) spoke of his 4-5 acre experimental vineyard with grapes growing and on going work to develop hardy winter tolerant grape vines. “Viticulture for me is growing grapes in a field, and to make them survive from one year to the next. It is not running a winery where someone buys the grapes, eventually producing the wine.” Hank spoke of his relationship with the University of Minnesota, and learning tools he has used. “This is no longer experimental. Looking down the road I can see opportunities for people to work in Viticulture I urge others to try it.”
Jason Pyke: -Pykeview Meadows Farm, spoke of his early years, the University of Guelph he and his wife Christina attended. Returning to Wolfe Island, they decided against dairy.. “We married, & started with bison in 2012 with a herd of 160 with Christina doing the product (leather)marketing for 6 years.” They have two children . The arrival of the wind farm on the island, “gave us a boost allowing us to let go of the bison (also have solar) and gave us a fall back in revenue.” They are the 5th generation of Pykes custom cropping. Farming requires continuous learning through farming associations, publications, and contact with other farmers. “Recently we were father, son, brother and 2 uncles, with mother, daughter, and wife, who brought food to fields,’
Cathy Rothermel: Island resident since 2001. “I had no intention of farming. I wanted the kids close to nature. Introduced to Kingston’s organic Seed Co-Op, my life took a turn and with friends started a market garden under the Supported Canadian model, a system that connects the producer and consumers sharing the risk of farming. I have found my place in the area of food production.” She is involved with the Kingston and Area seed system initiative growing-developing -facilitating seed production (organically), working with St. Lawrence College also with a number of breeding projects, “similar to what Hank is doing what survives and what doesn’t.. I think there are all kinds of opportunities on Wolfe Island.”
Trudy DeRuiter: “My story is not so colourful . The DeRuiter Farm was established in 1948 when my husband Case’s family emigrated from the Netherlands buying the Baker farm established 1883, and were in dairy production over 65 years when we took over. Our children, as they moved on in school, showed little interest so about 10 years ago we switched from dairy to Black Angus beef. I told Case the advertising was already done. They feed on grass so the farm becomes labour intensive. The kids, all with full time jobs, help. We love the farm, we want to keep it going. We sell beef to the Pig &Olive, locally to The Grill and fill island orders.” Trudy studied book keeping and marketing. “I would love to teach people about meat.”
Jason Lacelle: new to the island in 2010, bought the Glen O’Shea farm and established a hop yard this season. “When I went to the nursery, someone did not follow through with their order and I was able to get 2nd year plants meaning I might be able to harvest this year. First year is 10% potential harvest and 2nd year 40 to 45%, and 3RD year to 100% forward lasting about 25 years. Most of the hard work for hops, a perennial plant is the first year,” La Salle said. “It looks like a field of telephone posts with wires running through it. The hops were put in about June 1st and already they have grown about 12 inches.. Once the root is established to full growth I should be able to expect 12 inches of growth per day.” Jason indicated most of his learning about hops has come from reading , asking questions and doing it. He sees opportunities for his product with the opening of the WI Spring Brewery and others in the county. “Once we get a breakdown of the quality of the hops we will slowly move forward one step at a time.”
A question and answer period followed about the possibilities and the cost of leasing land, about transportation, expectation for new larger ferry, types of farming possible, grass, grape vines, sheep, small goat herds, organic fruit and vegetables. Most often noted was a need for smaller, available pieces of land and an Island association for farmers. (Taste of WI). For Information, contact Richard Allen at Frontenac County.

Coming events: The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival: June 23 - August 12, 2017. ***Wolfe Island Classic Race & Kiddie kilometer Sun. July 2nd. *Canada Day Pancake Breakfast July 1st WI United Church Hall 9am-11am. *Big Sandy Bay remains closed.

Of particular interest to the community, and in the spirit of the 1st Wolfe Island Garden Party, Richard Allen, Frontenac County Economic Development Manager, hosted a panel discussion with members of the island’s agricultural community, about the opportunities and challenges of their work, and to share their stories held at the General Wolfe Inn. “Some of you, generational farmers and others relatively new, will contribute to the agricultural story we gather today. Part of my job is to share and to encourage young people and others to consider the things that are our strengths,” he said in addressing panelists Hank Connell, Jason Pyke, Cathy Rothermel, Trudy De Ruiter and Jason Lacelle. Here is what they had to say:
Hank Connell: a retired school teacher, owner operator of Sugar Woods Farm (maple syrup,) spoke of his 4-5 acre experimental vineyard with grapes growing and on going work to develop hardy winter tolerant grape vines. “Viticulture for me is growing grapes in a field, and to make them survive from one year to the next. It is not running a winery where someone buys the grapes, eventually producing the wine.” Hank spoke of his relationship with the University of Minnesota, and learning tools he has used. “This is no longer experimental. Looking down the road I can see opportunities for people to work in Viticulture I urge others to try it.”
Jason Pyke: -Pykeview Meadows Farm, spoke of his early years, the University of Guelph he and his wife Christina attended. Returning to Wolfe Island, they decided against dairy.. “We married, & started with bison in 2012 with a herd of 160 with Christina doing the product (leather)marketing for 6 years.” They have two children . The arrival of the wind farm on the island, “gave us a boost allowing us to let go of the bison (also have solar) and gave us a fall back in revenue.” They are the 5th generation of Pykes custom cropping. Farming requires continuous learning through farming associations, publications, and contact with other farmers. “Recently we were father, son, brother and 2 uncles, with mother, daughter, and wife, who brought food to fields,’
Cathy Rothermel: Island resident since 2001. “I had no intention of farming. I wanted the kids close to nature. Introduced to Kingston’s organic Seed Co-Op, my life took a turn and with friends started a market garden under the Supported Canadian model, a system that connects the producer and consumers sharing the risk of farming. I have found my place in the area of food production.” She is involved with the Kingston and Area seed system initiative growing-developing -facilitating seed production (organically), working with St. Lawrence College also with a number of breeding projects, “similar to what Hank is doing what survives and what doesn’t.. I think there are all kinds of opportunities on Wolfe Island.”
Trudy DeRuiter: “My story is not so colourful . The DeRuiter Farm was established in 1948 when my husband Case’s family emigrated from the Netherlands buying the Baker farm established 1883, and were in dairy production over 65 years when we took over. Our children, as they moved on in school, showed little interest so about 10 years ago we switched from dairy to Black Angus beef. I told Case the advertising was already done. They feed on grass so the farm becomes labour intensive. The kids, all with full time jobs, help. We love the farm, we want to keep it going. We sell beef to the Pig &Olive, locally to The Grill and fill island orders.” Trudy studied book keeping and marketing. “I would love to teach people about meat.”
Jason Lacelle: new to the island in 2010, bought the Glen O’Shea farm and established a hop yard this season. “When I went to the nursery, someone did not follow through with their order and I was able to get 2nd year plants meaning I might be able to harvest this year. First year is 10% potential harvest and 2nd year 40 to 45%, and 3RD year to 100% forward lasting about 25 years. Most of the hard work for hops, a perennial plant is the first year,” La Salle said. “It looks like a field of telephone posts with wires running through it. The hops were put in about June 1st and already they have grown about 12 inches.. Once the root is established to full growth I should be able to expect 12 inches of growth per day.” Jason indicated most of his learning about hops has come from reading , asking questions and doing it. He sees opportunities for his product with the opening of the WI Spring Brewery and others in the county. “Once we get a breakdown of the quality of the hops we will slowly move forward one step at a time.”
A question and answer period followed about the possibilities and the cost of leasing land, about transportation, expectation for new larger ferry, types of farming possible, grass, grape vines, sheep, small goat herds, organic fruit and vegetables. Most often noted was a need for smaller, available pieces of land and an Island association for farmers. (Taste of WI). For Information, contact Richard Allen at Frontenac County.

Coming events: The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival: June 23 - August 12, 2017. ***Wolfe Island Classic Race & Kiddie kilometer Sun. July 2nd. *Canada Day Pancake Breakfast July 1st WI United Church Hall 9am-11am. *Big Sandy Bay remains closed.

Frontenac Islands Recognizes Staff, Also Welcomes Ontario Waterkeeper
The first order of business at the June meeting of Frontenac Islands June meeting, held on Howe Island, was the presentation of Staff Recognition Awards to four Howe Island municipal employees. This follows a similar presentation on Wolfe Island in May. “ To night we are recognizing four persons who work on Howe Island representing more than 60 years of employment,” Deputy Mayor Nossal who chaired the meeting, said. “So whether they are running administrative affairs for our township, protecting our public assets, or maintain our life line, they play a very important role towards the lives we live here on Howe Island . And on behalf of all Howe Islanders we want to thank you for your service to our community.” Service award recipients were Carol Dwyre-27 year; Larry Quinn-20 years; Pat Quinn-15 years; Christian Prior-8 years. Along with certificates each received a Canadian Mint gift card.

2. Kingston and Wolfe Island Culture Festival- Deputy Mayor Nossal invited Rebecca Harrison Manager of Programs Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, to provide information about The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival — a seven week celebration of the Great Lakes to be presented through story and song, June 23rd – August 12th The opening ceremony will be held at the General Wolfe Inn on June 23rd at 5pm . Harrison reminded council of the ongoing work of Ontario Waterkeeper, and its beginnings in the region, working “for a day when every person in our watershed can safely touch the water, when the water is pure enough to drink and when the lake is clean and wild enough to toss a line anywhere and pull out a fish.” She outlined the significant programs they undertake including the popular “Swim Guide” and the “Water Mark Project,” among others. With regard to the festival, she said “We have always had a lot to do with the Lit Festival and the WI Music Festival usually held back to back, but this year there is a 7 week space between, a perfect opportunity for Waterkeeper to come back to the Wolfe Island -Kingston area, and to showcase how vast the community, the more people get connected to water. We are fortunate with our relationship to Kingston and in increasing our relationship with Wolfe Island.” She added that all advertising for the festival encourages people to LEAVE CARS BEHIND and WALK ON THE FERRY TO WOLFE ISLAND.
She noted the second week of the Cultural Festival will focus on Geography of the Great Lakes (location, food, fish). “The 3rd week (July 7-13) is about history, myths, legends, and stories of Wolfe Island”, she said. “There are many historical artifacts that have been found on Wolfe Island, but do not live (stay) on the island. They live in Ottawa or the ROM, which is a bone of contention with the WI Historical Society. So we are working with the Historical Society to organize and launch a fund raising campaign to build the ‘Old House Museum’ up to snuff, so that it can become the permanent home for these artifacts. We are hoping to have a follow-up feature event of photos of these artifacts hosted by the WI Historical Society, and encourage people to contribute so that they can get their collection management system together to bring the artifacts home.” Harrison identified the remaining weeks as Week 4: Identity | July 14 - July 20 – ‘How has Lake Ontario shaped who we are?’ Lake Ontario Waterkeeper Retrospective Wed. July 19th. Week 5: Protection| July 21 - July 27 ‘How do we protect Lake Ontario for Generations to come’ ? Includes Water Sampling Workshops. Week 6: The Future | July 28 – Aug. 3 ‘What does the future look like for Kingston, Wolfe Island, & Lake Ontario?’ Week 7: Celebration | Aug. 4 – Aug. 12 –‘The Wolfe Island Music Festival: Waterkeeper Showcase - Pledge Campaign in Kingston Aug. 9th ‘

Working with Trail Head, they have planned a Lake Ontario Explore Town event challenging people to go out , walk, paddle, hike, cycle, anything but drive, to different parts of Kingston and Wolfe Island, and take pictures of the lake and post them often, for draws . We have prizes, not sure yet what they are. “And that,” she said, “ is just a short list of what we hope will bring people to Kingston and Wolfe Island,” A Full Schedule of events will be unveiled at the festival launch on June 23rd. Watch for details.

3 More about Frontenac Islands Council next time.

Around Town; The sign in Kingston still indicated Big Sandy Bay is “Closed Due to Flooding”.
** Slight lowering of water levels since outflow at Cornwall.** Cafe Tenango - Coffee & Tea - Main Street, Wolfe Island opens June 23rd. **Check Shanti Retreat for Up Coming programs. ** The WI Waste Site is open Mon., Wed. and now Sundays (till the end of summer).**WI Crafts Opens June 24th 10-4 daily (Behind Town Hall)

Coming Events: ** Severance restrictions meetings. — Tues, June 20th 6:30PM Howe Island Municipal Bldg; Thurs. June 22nd 6:30 pm, WI Town Hall. **The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival: June 23 - August 12, 2017. ***Wolfe Island Classic Race & Kiddie kilometer Sun. July 2nd. Visit wolfeisland.com ***Canada Day Pancake Breakfast July 1st WI United Church Hall 9am-11am.

As Wolfe Island gears up for the busy summer season of activities and events, I was struck at just how busy the island already is. So much activity at the Wolfe Island Grill, with boats coming this way to make use of the new docks that were stored over the winter, and now are in place in spite of the still high water levels. And it’s a similar situation at the General Wolfe Inn. With their doors now open most days, and work progressing beautifully at the dock side the area is alive with people. And the WI Bakery , the WI Pub and Pizzeria, and Fargo’s Store, continue as important places to go. Along with the WI Information Centre, the Stone Heron Gallery, opening once again in the WI Township Community Hall for the summer, the “Old House” Museum, the Dreamcatcher B&B, Bill Speers “Cycle Wolfe Island” bicycle rental, and the WI Boat Club, all are on Main Street. And with the WI Community Garden and the Community Centre Grounds, (ball diamonds, covered rink, horse ring etc.) where the WI Music Festival takes place, ALL ARE WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OF THE FERRY, requiring NO Vehicle to get there, if physically able.

Of course there are important locations all over the island, too numerous to mention, requiring transportation to get there. For instance Big Sandy Bay, presently closed due to high water, and the international crossing to Cape Vincent via Horne's Ferry, and Riverfront Golf , the Corn Maze…..

During the summer months the population of Wolfe Island increases from 1400 to perhaps 3000, when cottagers and summer residents return. That alone increases traffic on the ferry. But already this early in the season the lineups are long both sides, often leaving vehicles behind, not just on weekends. Add to that Emergency Calls causing the ferry to go off schedule. With no stop light in the village when the ferry unloads, and non synchronized lights in Kingston, how can it stay on schedule? Consider too all the service vehicles, agricultural, construction, and the transport of water, waste, fuel etc., that must come and go to the island.

Wolfe Island welcomes visitors to the island any time of year, to share in what it has to offer. But, if you coming this time of year to visit the village of Marysville specifically, and do not require a vehicle please consider leaving your vehicle behind in Kingston, and walk-on the ferry.

B. Lake Ontario Water Keeper- A delegation from Lake Ontario Water Keeper will attend Frontenac Islands June council meeting to inform council of the schedule for a seven week celebration of the Great Lakes, The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival . Through story and song, it will begin with the Wolfe Island Festival the Arts by Dave Bidini, and end with the Wolfe Island Music Festival, organized by Virginia Clark . They will seek council’s input into what other areas of the island can be promoted during the festival. The Kingston and Wolfe Island Festival will feature the art, history science and nature of the area to foster new connections with water. The themes of each week will look at how Wolfe Island, and Kingston, provide an example “ of all that the Great Lakes can provide in swimmable, drinkable, fishable future.”
Lake Ontario Waterkeeper is a Canadian charity aimed at keeping the province’s water systems clean. ,It is part of Robert F. Kennedy , Jr.’s Waterkeeper Alliance, to ensure waterways worldwide are protected. Lake Ontario Waterkeeper was founded in 2001 by Mark Mattson and Kingston’s Kristyn Tully, following the water tragedy in Walkerton Ontario, where Mark had served as counsel for a public interest environmental group. At about the same time there was a terrible sewage spill in Kingston that fouled Wolfe Island shores and waters. Mark, a lawyer, grew up spending summers swimming and fishing on Wolfe Island, where his family has owned property since the 1800’s. Watch for details of the Kingston and Wolfe Island Culture Festival (KWICF).

Around Town: **Wolfe Island Fire & Rescue have issued a letter outlining the costs of required equipment with thanks for donations. It reminded resident that the WI service is a volunteer department and required to have the same equipment as career fire fighters, ensuring resident safety but that of the fire fighters as well. It noted that a new Hurst Jaw for Life tool cost $13,000, pads for defibrillators cost $200 each, and bunker suits, good only for 10 years, cost $2,300. “You can see how important your donations are,” the letter said. ** Work is well underway at the site of the Senior Apartment Project in spite of rain earlier in the week. ** Linda Thomas spoke on behalf of the WI Feral Cat group on CBC radio morning about the successes and benefits for the cats. Worth a listen. Islanders have cared for feral cats for many years. ** Water levels remain high. Concern raised with the Big Sandy Bay sensitive sand dune erosion , and the no beach situation. *** (By the way, cycling Wolfe Island is becoming more and more popular (reserve your bike at 613-385-2240 cyclewolfeisland@gmail.com.)

COMING EVENTS:** WI’s 1st Annual Garden Party, June 15,16, 17th. Wrist bands available at businesses, & tourist centre. ** Severance restrictions meetings. Tues, June 20th 6:30PM Howe Island Municipal Bldg; Thurs. June 22nd 6:30 pm, WI Town Hall. **The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival: June 23 - August 12, 2017. ***Wolfe Island Classic Race & Kiddie kilometer Sun. July 2nd. Visit wolfeisland.com ***Canada Day Pancake Breakfast July 1st

On May 31st the Township of Frontenac Islands issued a status report with regard to flooding conditions on Simcoe Wolfe and Howe Islands. This follows the issuance of the Emergency Response Plan, and Declaration of Emergency with the Province, as a means of protecting health, welfare and property of islanders at this time.
The current update lists health and safety issues as of most concern and advises residents to be aware of high levels of bacteria in the water, and to continue getting water tested. Bottles remain available at the township offices but now must be dropped off at the Public Health Kingston Lab at 181 Barrie Street. Sand bagging continues with sand available at Wolfe and Howe in the event of high winds. No evacuations have been necessary.
The Simcoe Ferry is operational with large sand bags on the docks both sides to allow operation during high winds and wave uprush. The Howe Island foot ferry is currently running on a reduced schedule and carrying a ¾ ton truck for ballast. It is restricted to two vehicles and reduced hours. Big Sandy Bay remains closed. Water on roads shows little reduction

Wolfe Island Garden Party: The 15th,16th and 17th of June are the dates of the 1st Annual Wolfe Island Garden Party, presented by ‘Wolfe Island Records’ and ‘Wolfe Island Spring’. Wolfe Island Records (located on the Island) has been involved in the development of The Garden Party, a weekend and in association with the Wolfe Island Craft Brewery, and the Wolfe Island Grill will present a weekend of culture, music, agriculture and art and a number of events promoting music, local food production and sustainable farming. The event has received support from the Township of Frontenac Islands, Frontenac County, and CFDC ‘
A beautiful brochure has been created with much thought, much colour and a delightful play list of events announcing the Wolfe Island Garden Party, in support of the Wolfe Island Community Garden(s). It is a wonderful invitation to join Islanders on those dates at the Wolfe Island Grill on Thursday June 15th at 8:30pm, for a Listening Party of new releases by David Corley and Hugh Christopher Brown. And on Friday June 16th for Live Music at The Wolfe Island Grill , General Wolfe Inn, and the Wolfe Island Pub & Pizzeria, also beginning at 8:30 pm
Saturday offers a variety of events beginning at 11 am with Family Music with ‘Butterfingers’ at the dock of the Wolfe Island Boat Club. A Wolfe Island Grill ‘Bar B Que’ will feature locally sourced food. A panel discussion on the opportunities and the challenges for local food and agriculture on the island (1PM-2:30PM) follows at the General Wolfe Inn, hosted by Frontenac County Economic Development.

A map will be available indicating the locations of open houses, farm locations, gardens and music workshops. Coming by ferry, visitors are urged to leave cars behind , walk on to the ferry, and to walk, cycle or hop on a wagon to visit the different locations and meet the exciting people who operate them, whether an artist, an organic master gardener, a photographer, a sheep farmer, an artist and many more. Live music continues at the same three venues the Wolfe Island Grill, General Wolfe Inn and the WI Pub & Pizzeria that evening. Weekend passes are $20. Children free with all proceeds going to the Wolfe Island Community Garden(s). Wristbands will be available at local businesses and the Wolfe Island Tourist office in advance. An email address is being created by which to reserve…stay tuned for that at the WI Network on Facebook. All kinds of work is underway on the outdoor patios, and in completing seasonal boat docking spots at the WI Gril,l and the Inn in preparation for the Garden Party weekend and summer generally. Exciting times.

COMING EVENTS: **Open House meetings to receive public comment on the restriction of severances in rural areas and proposed amendments to Official Plan Policy, Section 6.3.3. Tues, June 20th 6;30-6 PM Howe Island Municipal Bldg. and Thurs. June 22nd 6:30-8 pm, Wolfe Island Town Hall. **The Kingston & Wolfe Island Culture Festival: a celebration of Great Lakes Voices Events throughout Kingston and Wolfe Island June 23 - August 12, 2017

Yet More About Water
Shoreline residents around Frontenac Islands , Howe and Wolfe, as well in Frontenac County and Kingston continue their effort to keep the waters of Lake Ontario and the St Lawrence from destroying homes, cottages, shorelines . But day by day there has been little change in water levels that remain very high. With frequent high winds blowing in and periods of rain, an incredible effort is required to keep the water at bay by very tired home and business owners and their coteries of volunteers.

The Township of Frontenac Islands has done what it had to do: activated an Emergency Response Plan and filed an Emergency declaration made sand and bags available, and is closely monitoring the Simcoe Islander and Township Howe Islander ferries, Roads have been reinforced and Reeds Bay Road in particular with tons of rock. Citizens have been advised to keep receipts etc. for Disaster Recovery Assistance, be prepared to care for themselves for a minimum of 72 hours and perhaps most importantly to test drinking wate. The KFLA Health Unit Advisory has been issued with regard to water safety.

And on this day in late May, rain is once again in the forecast, and “Lake Ontario, could see a new record in just a few days,” Gail Faveri said (in a Press Reader article by D.Hains, Metro Toronto). Faveri is with the International Lake Ontario - St. Lawrence River Board which since 1960 has been in charge of regulating the flow of Lake Ontario into the St. Lawrence controlled by the Moses-Saunders Dam near Cornwall, benefitting St. Lawrence Seaway shipping, hydroelectric power generation, boaters and property owners. According to the Metro article, the board has been adjusting the flow every day since the beginning of April in an effort “to provide maximum relief to people living along the shoreline of Lake \Ontario and downstream.” Thus far it doesn’t seem to be much help to those Islanders affected most. The decent of the water is happening so slowly. And now it is raining….once again. Quoting from the plan “Experience has shown that during excessive spring runoff from the Ottawa River, which is a major tributary, flooding in the Montreal area can be reduced by temporary reductions in Lake Ontario outflow. Plan 2014 formally incorporates these temporary reductions in outflow.” This obviously happened and we have that water.

2. Wolfe Island Ferry Line Ups- Anyone who travelled to Wolfe Island over the holiday weekend could only wonder at what drew the many, cars, trucks, trailers and boats to Wolfe along with so many visitors walking and biking off the ferry Wolfe Islander III into Maryville on Friday. The lineups on the Kingston side were long but it was the number of vehicles leaving the island at the end of the weekend that was truly incredible. And how grateful we are to have the MTO students keeping things in order traffic-wise. They tightened up the line, kept cars from sneaking into it, moved those parked in it and going nowhere, and generally got into the swing of the summer travel to the island.
At the recent Frontenac Islands council meeting a discussion about the line up, and the idea that that the ferry might better operate from the Dawson Point Dock all year for ease of lineup, boarding and unloading came up because the disregard by some people for the rules in Marysville causes disruptions to the MTO ferry schedule. The Township will issue a flyer to Wolfe Island residents outlining those rules as stipulated in a Township bylaw and a notice that Frontenac By-law Enforcement will be present on a regular basis to ensure compliance. Adherence to the rules is not seen as a threat to Marysville businesses but rather will help keep the ferry on schedule. Councillor Springgay expressed her strong desire that the ferry remain in the village all year for the sake of businesses, development and tourism. Though fundamentally opposed to having local citizens ticketed for lineup infractions as a way of improving lineup efficiency, she would agree if necessary. As the students become more experienced , that option may not be required.

3. Around Frontenac Islands: (a) Severance Application Review Public Meetings : June 20th on Howe Island; June 22nd on Wolfe Island, both at 6:30 pm. (b) Council approved a minimum, 1 week closure of a portion of Howe Island’s Lower Side Road to allow a culvert replacement south of the Baseline Trail. © Footings were poured for the WI Seniors Apartment facility. (d) Frontenac Islands website: frontenacislands.ca

4. Around Town: Thanks to Rhonda Brown, who is retiring, for providing (Lifelabs) blood services to the WI Medical Clinic twice a month since 2013. Friday June 2nd is her last day. Enjoy Rhonda. Catalina Schneider will be taking her place. FYI: The Clinic bears the cost of the Nurse Practitioner Walk In’s and the specimen collection centres. donations are accepted. The WI Classic Race Sun. July 2nd also supports the Medical Clinic. Register at: http://wolfeisland.com/wiclassic/registration/
Coming events: ***Rummage Sale WI United Church Hall Sat. June 3rd, 9am to 2pm… ** Wolfe Island Classic Race July 2nd 9:30 am ** WI Round Up July 1,2.

Frontenac Islands activated its Emergency Response plan and ‘Declared a Flooding Emergency’ on Tues .May 16th due to the already high water levels of the St. Lawrence and River and Lake Ontario, which at this time are expected to continue increasing. The weather in the region has included high winds and incredible wave action causing flooding in low lying areas, shore lines, and erosion affecting homes , cottages , roads, etc.

To date islanders have willingly volunteered to help fill and place sandbags to divert water in a number of areas and around homes on Wolfe and Howe Islands with the sand and bags. These were made available at the islands public works facilities, with a reminder to bring a shovel and a caution to drive slowly over water covered roads. Volunteers can be called to assist local staff. With a ‘Declaration’ both Provincial and Federal Governments can also be called upon. Islanders have been advised to document any damages incurred with photo/receipts for expenses, if the Ministry of Housing determines that Frontenac Islands are a zone eligible for Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO).
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There has been no problem with the Wolfe Islander III ferry, which is sitting very high in the water, but going up the ramp and down to board and exit the ferry however, is quite an unusual experience. I expect it must be similar experience for the Howe Island County ferry. However should water levels continue to rise expect the Simcoe Islander and Township Howe Islander to shut down until levels drop. The big fear as always is for the ferries to be shut down with no way to leave the islands, and in this case impassable roads, or no access to homes. But as Mayor Doyle so often says: “We are indeed a resilient lot on Frontenac Islands.”
Have you had your water tested yet? This is very important. KFL&A Public Health advises drinking water testing. Flooding conditions may have affected wells and sewage systems. Test bottles are available from either Island township offices to be returned for pickup by the Health Unit. In this situation, test the water regularly. For more information visit the Frontenac Islands website at: frontenacislands.ca

2. Great Things Happening at The General Wolfe Inn: . As a member of the Frontenac County Accessibility Committee I felt compelled to call and remind the new owners of the Inn that there are a number of areas in and around the Inn that need improvements when it comes to making it accessible according to Ontario standards. And how thrilled I was to hear that such are already underway. You can’t help but notice the level of activity across the street at the Inn’s outdoor Summer Patio on the Dock. It is undergoing a complete rebuild that will include a number of initiatives to make it accessible including a wheelchair accessible washroom, barrier free entries, and height level considerations. Many may have already seen the design for that area presently hanging in the restaurant showing plantings, rock design, and general needed dock repairs If not, consider having a look. When it comes to the restaurant itself, there too initiatives are being considered including making the direct entry door at the back of the building as the accessible entry door. The operative word being a Welcoming Accessible Door , good lighting etc., and perhaps handicap parking. Much thought is being given to ways of improving the accessibility of the interior and exterior of the restaurant as well as the dining room. Good |Luck …

3. And About Beaches and Ferries: ** FYI: The design-build contract for the new Amherst Island Ferry also includes the design-build for the new Wolfe Island ferry. The contract is currently in the ‘Request for Proposals’ (RFP) stage, which is the second phase of procurement. The RFP was sent to the five qualifying shipyards at the end of April. It is expected the contract to be awarded by late summer 2017. The information about this project comes from Ms. Brandy Duhaime, Regional Communications Coordinator MTO, Eastern Region. Also from MTO: Glenora Ferry Service will remain on a 30-minute schedule with only one ferry running on limited service until further notice. Only cars, SUVs and ½ ton pick-up trucks can be accommodated. (On a trip to Picton, we noted the Glenora Ferry had a large truck centered in the middle as form of ballast against the water level.) ** Wolfe Island Welcomes Back the MTO Summer Students whom we count on to keep the ferry line-ups in order. Good Luck. **Please Take Note that Big Sandy Bay is closed until further notice due to high water levels. To put it succinctly, There is No Beach at this time. Watch for an Opening Date at: frontenacislands.ca

4.. Around Town; * Jana Mills was in attendance to receive a $4,000 grant for the Friends of Ferals from the Kingston Community Foundation. **Also from the Foundation a $6,362 grant for the NEW WI Community Garden (behind the WI Medical Clinic) presented to Kayo Murakami. **

The rain was falling too heavily to proceed with the planned ground breaking ceremony at the site for a first Seniors Apartment Project for Frontenac Islands. The honoured guest was present , the shovel was gilded and the people came to the Wolfe Island Community Hall. And, not for the first time, is it that Mr. John Weatherall, (Scarthingmoore Farms) has donated land for a special project on Wolfe, this time one for seniors
“We are delighted to have John here with us today. His donation is another key piece in this project,” Mayor Denis Doyle said in his welcome. “When Frontenac County went on to develop a strategic plan, county council determined that as one of their priorities, a senior apartment project be established, one in each of the four townships and allocated $375,000 for each of them, and a little more to hire a consultant to help us develop a plan,” he said. Wolfe Island indicated a need for senior living spaces some years ago, and the Weatherall’s expressed ongoing interest and support at the time. Doyle paid tribute to the WI Senior Housing committee (which he chairs) made up of members of the community including Councillor Wayne Grant, Brian Scovill, Kathy Horton, Mikaela Hughes, Walter Knott, CAO Darlene Plumley, and advisor Patrick Thompson. Frontenac Islands Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal also attended the gathering.

As people arrived (40-55), they were invited by committee members and staff to walk through an accessible one bedroom apartment laid out to full size with tape on the floor at one end of the hall. Each room space was identified with cupboards, doors, sink, tubs, windows, etc. Islanders took their time, from ‘room’ to ‘room’, offered suggestions, asked questions, and picked up rental application forms, tenancy agreement forms and information before leaving. Coffee, cookies and pie was served.
Present from the County were CAO Kelly Pender and Communications Marco Smits, and from Wemp-Smith Building Contractors wasTammie Shatraw. This first project for Frontenac Islands -Wolfe Island Ward will consist of four -one bedroom apartments, and one 2 bedroom apartment. The project is ready to go… when the rain stops… when the ground dries For more information contact Frontenac Islands -Wolfe Island 613-385-2216.
At Frontenac Islands Council: A Service Employee Appreciation event in this instance for Wolfe & Simcoe Island employees was held in advance of the May 8 Council meeting. Honoured for years of service were: Don Eves, Tom Hines, Keith Greenwood, Ed Etmanskie, May Etmanskie, Kevin Frost, Theresa Quist, Carl Lambert, Darlene Plumley, and Rob Dillabough. A similar employee appreciation will be held on Howe Island in advance of the regular June Council meeting. Each person received a certificate and a gift. (which was a surprise.)
2. A minor variance request for a property on Easy Lane was withdrawn, at the request Frontenac County Planner Megan Rueckwald on behalf of the applicant Margaret Webb because of the severe flooding on the Webb property. Webb was also at the meeting was obviously anxious and concerned as she described the flooding pattern, and all she and family members have been doing (sand bagging, ditching), to try and save their house, including manning 4 very costly industrial pumps. She spoke of difficulty with adjacent lot flooding patterns, and no proper ditching etc. The owner asked that their building permit remain open. The township will repay the $475 cost of the minor variance, and has sought and will seek further input from the Cataraqui Regional Conservation Authority, Ducks Unlimited, Ministry of Natural Resources and the Municipal Drainage Inspector regarding properties on Easy Lane. At the present time sand and bags are available at the public works departments at both Howe and Wolfe. Interesting to note, Township staff will meet with a representative from Emergency Measures Ontario to discuss Disaster Management related to flooding.
3. W.I,s Chris Brown, owner/operator of a music recording facility on the island, accompanied by Janette Haase of Community Gardens, spoke to council about the planning that has begun for a weekend featuring music, farm and garden open houses/work shops. It is to raise awareness of community gardening and the WI Community Gardens to coincide with the formal launch of “Wolfe Island Records” and also ‘Casey’s’ brewery launch. A very ambitious program involving businesses, restaurants, musicians, and gardeners with a focus on social justice, food and the rural sector. It will include the WI Island Grill and the General Wolfe Inn. More information soon..
Around Town: Speaking of Gardens, the Tulips in Maryville’s Community Garden Planted for Canada’s 150th are in full bloom. Why not take a walk that way… June 10-18 is Garden Ontario Week.
Coming Events: **. Fish Fry, Wolfe Island United Sat. May 20TH,doors open 4;30, *** Community Yard Sale, Saturday & Sunday May 20-21, 9 AM to 4 PM, New & Used Items Rain or Shine, 1263 Hwy 96 East *** WI Boat Club Try It Day–Open House, Sunday, May28 ***Rummage Sale WI United Church Hall Sat. June 3rd, 9am to 2pm…

Spring has finally arrived for Frontenac Islands…There is excitement in the air. You can see it happening at this time of year in every small town along the St. Lawrence, and Lake Ontario. Here Municipal crews were out cleaning the streets of winter leftovers of sand and grime. The last of forgotten Christmas decorations are gone . Flower pots are appearing on the main street ready for plants, or already filled. Islanders are back from winter holidays. Trees and bushes are just aching to bloom. The Bicycle Rental shop is open for business ..as is Horne’s ferry, the Bakery. Soon to follow will be any other restaurant , shop, retreat, park, garden, and golf course, that was closed for the winter. The Coast Guard has set out the markers.
In small towns all over, signs will appear announcing this event or that and how to get here or there. Plants , vegetables and flowers, along with mulch and whatever else required for the growing season, will fill the stands along the front of the local general stores. Patios will be opening at village restaurants, as will accommodation facilities closed for the winter. Fishing has started and boats have begun to arrive at the village docks.. Summer residents will begin to trickle back. Local food and produce appears for sale. And finally as schools near closing for the summer, everything else that was shut down for the winter, art galleries, museums, information centres, specialty shops, parks, walking tours, etc. etc. will open, and summer fund raising events of every sort begin and visitors come in droves. Welcome to Summer….
It’s all about TOURISM, attracting people to share in what you have to offer and to SPEND their dollars that help maintain your town when businesses close down for the winter. It doesn’t seem to matter how big or small the town may be, (unless you have a ski hill or concert hall), that’s the way it goes. Here, take the Wolfe Islander III to Marysville and Welcome to Wolfe Island.
2. THE LADIES IN SIR JOHN A.'S LIFE’: Brian Porter, the well known Sir John A MacDonald impersonator, and his wife Renee wearing an 1880’s gown as Lady Agnes Mac Donald, presented a series of stories about Canada’s first Prime Minister and the women in his life. This was at a gathering presented as part of the WI Historical Society’s annual speakers series. The historical slides and the skits presented by Brian, dressed in his1880’s period frock coat, took the audience back in time to Confederation 150 years ago. But it was the stories about the women in Sir John A’s life that came as a surprise. The women included his mother Helen Shaw, his two sisters, two wives, sickly Isabella Clark, Lady Agnes, his handicapped daughter Mary and granddaughter Daisy. Sir John was a widower for 10 years before he married Lady Agnes One story about her, read by Renee Porter, was a surprise. Apparently strong willed, she travelled 600 miles , tied to the cow catcher of the train travelling through the Rocky Mountains. Through the stories it was clear that Sir John A’s home life was difficult, while his role in the formation of Canada significant. WI Historical Society president Hank Connell thanked the Porter’s for coming. It was a wonderful afternoon.
Around Town: ** Water levels are high around Frontenac Islands. As a precaution loads of sand and bags are at public works areas on both Howe and Wolfe for sandbagging if required. ** Horne’s Ferry to Cape Vincent NY was forced to delay its May 1st opening to make some dock changes due to high water. ** New owners of the General Wolfe Inn, formerly the General Wolfe Hotel, are Laurence Gray and Ron Gibson. The Restaurant Operator is Kelly Hale. At the present time the Inn restaurant is open weekends only with bands and a new menu. *** The WI Community Garden Project is the recipient of a grant from the Community Foundation of Kingston. The project to offer experiences, planting, tending and harvesting for elementary school children and further opportunities. The garden will be located behind the WI Medical Clinic. **By the way, WI Clinic AGM is Tues. May 30th *** All proceeds WI Classic Road Race support the WI Community Medical Clinic. Donations for the clinic are gratefully received. *** Check out the Tri-Island Series. The first event in the challenge is the Howe Island Hustle, this year on May 13th, the Classic in July followed by the Wooly Bully on Amherst Island August 20th. ***Howe Island Pitch In week a Great Success. ** WI Boat Club May 13th Spring clean up of boats, books and boat house on May 28th.. Open House & summer program registration and membership renewal time. ***A new building is to replace present building at the WI Recycling Centre. *** The W.I. Bloomin’ Gardeners is looking for new members to join the group. Interested? Call Linda 385-1947.
Coming Events: **. Fish Fry, Wolfe Island United Sat. May 20TH,doors open 4;30, Adults $15.00 Under 12 –$6:00 Under 6 free, Take outs available. *** Shanti Retreat 6 Week Yoga Session, Mon. May 8th – Mon. June 19th, 7:30 - 8:45 pm. All levels, beginners welcome! $115 for pre-registration or $20/ class drop in *** Community Yard Sale, Saturday & Sunday May 20-21, 9 AM to 4 PM, New & Used Items Rain or Shine, 1263 Hwy 96 East Wolfe Island, left off the ferry. *** A Rummage Sale will be held at Wolfe Island United Church Hall Sat. June 3rd, 9am to 2pm… Spring cleaning think of them . Gently used items-books, clothing, kitchen items, toys, etc. No electronics or large furniture!… If you have items for this sale..contact Diane 385-2411 or Linda 365-2665.

Ground Breaking Event : A Priority Date for Frontenac Islands
Mayor Doyle is always open for questions about the township, in this instance, about the planned Seniors Apartment Project on Wolfe Island. “I think the biggest thing coming up at this time is the ‘ground breaking ‘ event for the project to be held on Friday May 5th,” he said. “ Mr. John Weatheral (Scarthingmoor Farms) who donated the land for the 5 unit apartment project will join us when he arrives off the 2 pm ferry at the WI Community Hall (behind the Town Hall) for some discussion, and up dating about the project. As well, for a meet and greet of the Frontenac County representatives, including key staff members, the WI Senior project committee members, and Wemp and Smith Construction company representatives.”
Mayor Doyle added that a full sized layout of a one bedroom unit will be outlined in tape on the floor of the newly upgraded WI Community Hall, offering an opportunity for everyone to sense the size of the planned accessible apartments. “We will then proceed to the site of the project at the south end of Division, street close to the WI Community Medical Clinic, WI Emergency Services and the Community Centre grounds for the ceremonial ground breaking. We hope that any members of the public who want an update and status report on this project will join us.”
FYI.. Frontenac County Council chose senior housing as the first of 3 projects to focus on over a five year period, to build one five unit seniors apartment facility in each of the four townships in Frontenac County. County Council approved the hiring of a consultant to assist in moving forward and a common business plan was developed for use in each of North, South, Central and Frontenac Islands Townships.. Public meetings were held throughout Frontenac County to determine need, and Marysville was chosen for a first seniors project under the auspices of Frontenac County.
2. Ferry line up problems.: A majority of Islanders are following the ferry lineup signage rules posted last year to assist in loading the ferry and keep it on the hourly schedule according to Mayor Doyle, but there are still those who do not. “Currently these by far are the issue I receive the most complaints about.” He listed for instance, those Not keeping the lineup tight, those butting in from the west resulting in others at the east end already in the lineup not getting on the ferry, those who wait for the ferry to leave, then park anywhere in the lineup and in spots where those coming up behind can't see the empty space in front of the car parked in violation of the township by-law, and thus que up behind it. “Last week a vehicle park at the corner in front of the Post Office and everyone queued up behind that car, while there were no cars at all on the dock” , the Mayor said . As a result of these ferry line up issues in the village there is a growing demand by many WI residents to have the ferry run from the Dawson Pont dock all year round, because it is generally always on time, and fair for all. And speaking of docks, the next MTO Ferry Docking EA PIC (Public Information Centre ) will likely be held in early June (?) rather than in May.

3. Mayor Doyle clarified a statement he made, contained in a Whig Standard article, about extended funding for the Frontenac Paramedicine pilot project started 3 years ago. The quote read, “Mayor Doyle said he was concerned municipal funding of health-care programs could amount to ‘downloading by stealth’ by the provincial government.” Doyle explained when asked that if these services are provided at the Hospital, or by a Doctor's office, or by other health care professionals, the province covers 100% of the cost through OHIP. The way the Paramedic funding formula works the municipalities pay for 50% of the costs, “so my point was if we are not careful and ensure that the Province covers 100% of the Paramedicine cost the Municipalities once again would get current Provincial costs downloaded to local property tax payers.” Frontenac County council supported the original project, providing $5,600 per year in funding..

Around Town : **Great work by WI’s Friends of the Feral Cats : The group has been working hard and is pleased to report that they have now neutered and vaccinated over 210 feral cats. They are also thrilled to have recently developed a relationship with Kingston Animal Rescue and then Southpaw Cat Café, and have through them, ‘rehomed’ several of Wolfe Island cats. Please watch for, and support, their fundraising activities this summer and fall – “We need the support of the community to maintain the success we have had to date.” ** WI Bakery Now Open May 1st, and also marks the opening of Horne’s Ferry. It provides the. international border crossing of the St. Lawrence Seaway from Horne’s Point (Point Alexandria)Wolfe Island to Cape Vincent NY (USA) for the season. Really a unique experience as the MV Wm. Darrel with a twelve car capacity, carries passengers and vehicles to their destination. This is not a free ferry.

Coming Events:** 6 Week Spring Yoga Session at Shanti Retreat, Monday May 8th - Monday June 19th, (excluding May long weekend) 7:30 - 8:45 pm. All levels, beginners welcome! $115 for pre-registration or $20 per class drop in ** Community Yard Sale, Saturday & Sunday May 20-21, 9 AM to 4 PM, New & Used Items Rain or Shine, 1263 HWY 96 EAST (Claire’s property)Wolfe Island, left off the ferry.

How Do We See Ourselves —Now?
Planning is underway for an official plan review with public meetings, to be held in June in the Frontenac Islands one in the Howe Island ward and the other in the Wolfe Island ward, to hear comments from residents ‘specifically’ with regard to the possibility of allowing more residential lots to be created in the rural areas of the township. This resolution came following the introduction of a report prepared by Frontenac County Planner Gallivan concerning “Official Plan Policy – Restriction of Severances in Rural Areas”. A more detailed analysis is needed to determine the kinds of changes that might occur, and their impact on the 1985 dated rule limiting three lots per parcel of land. As previously stated (The Heritage, April 19) Howe Island Councilor, Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal, asked if the meetings could be ward specific with separate policies based on what comes from the meetings.

All of which is reminiscent of two meetings held in April of 2008, one on Howe Island and the other on Wolfe Island, the first steps in the Frontenac Islands’ “Official Plan Review,” their purpose, to introduce the process and to identify the community’s involvement in it. (Also to introduce Tunnock Consulting, township planners at the time).
It is interesting to note that the OP process includes a research phase to develop a comprehensive community profile. Based on the same 10 questions presented at those meetings which related to: sustainability, rate of growth, quality of life, viable/marketable uses of agricultural lands/ shoreline development/ access/ protection, Marysville, limits to growth; Howe Island attributes and disadvantages; suitable/compatible home based businesses; private road development benefits/downfalls; cultural heritage/ historical sites and alternative energy, two different profiles emerged. And drawing from that 2008 article this is what Howe and Wolfe Islands came up with:

“Howe Island wants its flavour and independence sustained. It wants a community hub, larger (3 acre) lots, a dependable faster (free) ferry; island growth restricted by maintaining resource protection. Attributes are two ferries, a low crime rate, non intrusive home based businesses. They believe their identity is diluted by attachment to Wolfe Island, concerned about the poor farming environment, have health and safety concerns about wind power but wonder what the amenities agreement means for them. They have differing opinions about island roads, they want high speed internet, believe in growing your own food, market days. and cultural heritage and citizen participation.”

“Wolfe Island wants sustainability, well managed growth and age friendly quality of life and needs met. (health, seniors , safety, clean water, self sufficiency, environmental protection, waste disposal, multiuse community centre, etc.), as well as dependable ferry transportation, public transportation on the island, new businesses through encouraging different land uses and growth for Marysville dependent on municipal services (water-sewer).”
“Both communities, Howe and Wolfe, questioned the appropriateness of the extensive agricultural land use designation and their inability to sever. They saw the need for more rural designation and smaller farming land plot sizes (developing food movement, hobby farms etc.) as well as shore line management with public access to the water as important issues.”

Has anything changed since 2008? How Do islanders feel about allowing more residential lots to be created in the rural areas of the township? All to be given careful consideration prior to any change being introduced. Watch for meeting dates on the Frontenac Islands website. www.municipality.frontenacislands.on.ca.

Around Town: 1. ** Help us Celebrate the Township of Frontenac Islands Seniors Apartments Groundbreaking Ceremony. It will be at 26 Division St. Wolfe Island on May 5th, 2017 at 2:30 pm. The project that will provide five modern accessible apartments for seniors located close to Marysville amenities. Join Frontenac Islands Council and staff, Frontenac County Council and Staff, special Guest John Weatherall, (Scarthingmoor Farms), Seniors Housing Board Representatives, & General Contractors, Wemp and Smith Construction Limited.
2 . Frontenac County is looking for input from residents and businesses, tourist operators, interested citizens for ways to increase overnight stays in the County all year. Frontenac County and MDB Insight Consulting will host a workshop for Frontenac Islands on Wolfe Island Mon. May 1, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. WI Community Hall 26 Division Street. Registration: https://accommodationsonfrontenacislands.eventbrite.ca
3. THE WI HISTORICAL SOCIETY invites you to attend ‘THE LADIES IN SIR JOHN A.'S LIFE’ , an afternoon with Sir John A. and Lady Agnes Macdonald, played by Brian & Renee Porter, Sunday, APRIL 30th at 1:30 PM, WI United Church Hall. A slide show, accompanied by a series of skits designed to take you back to Confederation -150 years ago.
4. Plans are under way for a very busy July 1st weekend that includes the annual Canada Day Breakfast July 1, the 37th annual Wolfe Island 5-10k Road Race July 2nd, and the 3rd annual Wolfe Island Round Up…. July 1-2nd . Watch for details…
Coming Events: Rummage Sale WI United Church Hall Saturday June 3rd, 2017, 9AM to 2PM No electronics or large furniture. Contact Diane 385-2411 or Linda 365-2665.

A group of Howe Island Fire Fighters (21), led by Chief Mike Quinn, filed into the Howe Island’s municipal council chamber as Frontenac Islands April council meeting began. Addressing Council, Chief Quinn introduced the department’s Fire Fighters Association president and executive officer, Joe Beattie, to make a presentation.. “It gives me great pleasure present this cheque for $6,500 to the township,”Beattie said. “ It is the result of our fund raising activity for medical and safety equipment for our boat ‘ Marine 111’ last June . The community responded so well , as they always do.” Mayor Doyle accepted the cheque to be used as requested.
Frontenac County Planner Joe Gallivan was on hand to speak to the application for a severance of a piece of property (lot 10, Concession North Range, (North Shore Road) on Howe Island. Comments were heard from the owners of the property, and the abutting land owner. The severance application was approved . Galivan was also there to introduce a report requested by council concerning Official Plan Policy. The ‘Restriction of Severances in Rural Areas’ and the possibility of public meetings to consider allowing more residential lots in rural areas of the township. The report outlines existing policy as identified in the official plan (sec.6.3). Before amalgamation (1998) Howe Island did not have an OP. Wolfe Island did, but had no policies with regard to severances on a land holding. It is understood that the current policy (Jan. 1, 1985) that allows 3 severances is based on a Frontenac County Land Division approach. Planner Gallivan believes that before a public meeting can be held, more analysis is required to determine what might be the result of amending the 3 lot per parcel. “The provincial policy statement encourages growth in the hamlet areas with all decisions based on good planning,” he said. Using the County GIS services an approximate number of 1 to 3 acre lots available, that comply with sec 6.3 and other criteria were identified. Using MPAC data, Howe Island ward has 35 lots, with Wolfe Island 45 and Simcoe 5.

Noting the differences in the island wards, Howe and Wolfe, Deputy Mayor Natalie Nossal asked ”Can the meetings be ward specific” in order to develop separate policies based on the information and comments of citizens. Howe Island resident Bill Robinson could see no need for any change based on growth projections and ferry limitations. Another person had no quarrel with the 35 number of vacant lots on Howe. While another noted , “on Howe it’s about protecting agricultural land.” A Wolfe Islander on the other hand is unhappy with the 1985 restriction which prevents a 2nd home being built on 2 acre lot because the overall property had 3 severances already. Councillor Springgay sees increased development on Wolfe Island as a positive and assist in attracting and keeping young families, as well as building up school enrollment. Planner Gallivan suggested that if there are no appeals to the process as it proceeds through the summer, it might receive late fall approval. Watch for further information and notice of meeting dates.

FYI A Secondary Plan for Marysville (WI Ward) is to be undertaken to determine expected island growth and development with increased ferry service. A secondary plan provides specific policies for areas identified within an Official Plan as requiring more detailed direction.

Budget Approval: The result of all that effort by the staff, with earlier input by those who submitted funding requests (groups, associations, etc.), for budget year 2017, the increases for both wards is a 2.99% to the mill rate. The mill rate is the charge by $1,000 assessment on individual properties. This is all based on the total assessment, which actually decreased from the prior year, as many who have received MPAC notices will know. As Mayor Doyle completed the reading of the Frontenac Islands 2017 bylaw to levy taxes, which had been set to increase to 3.7% (1.57%for policing) for Howe, and 3.67 %,(2.01% for policing) for Wolfe, he announced that they had over budgeted for the education charge. “What should we do with the extra $45,000, take it out and lower rate or put it in reserves, or do a combination of both.?” Council chose the 3rd option, to reduce the tax rate on Howe to 2.98% with $6,000 for reserves, and 2.99% with $12,000 for reserves on Wolfe Island.

The township formalized an agreement with WI Music Festival 2017 coordinator Virginia Clark, as outlined in the Events bylaw including use of the Community Centre grounds August 10th through to August 13th. She will meet with MTO to mitigate some of the challenges involving ferry traffic particularly on the ‘going home’ commuter run on August 11th. Other elements of the festival related to policing, waste, recycling volumes, etc. will be worked out with township staff.

In other business; 1. A “Canada 150” committee has been formed to come up with an event. More to follow at May council meeting 2. An Accommodation Review meeting with Frontenac County’s Richard Allen will be held May 1st at Community Hall. Time to be determined.. 3. The Howe Island Ward newsletter to be released soon. 4. More Council news next time.

On this day, April 6th, our youngest grandson Daniel (16) is on his way to France with classmates from École Secondaire Catholique Marie-Rivier in Kingston, to attend commemorative events being held at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial on April 9, 2017 to mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War and the Battle of Vimy Ridge. He will be one of thousands of young Canadians who will be there to learn more about Canada’s military history. We tend to forget (or want to forget) that war is about the young.

Daniel goes with family stories about his great grandfather from Port Arthur who volunteered, joining the army (Little Black Devils) in 1914 departing for Europe, and who at age 22 was gassed at the 2nd Battle of Ypres, survived and taken as a prisoner of war for 3 years. He returned to Canada in 1919 after the end of the war. He said little or nothing about his experience for years. Daniel has also heard the stories of other relatives on both sides of the family who served in the military at that time or during the 2nd World War, the Korean War, and in in the military, as does his brother Will (RCAF).

But it is the stories of the bravery of the thousands of young Canadians, who volunteered to serve their county, and who fought at Vimy Ridge that has captured the imagination of Canadian youth. And they go to France knowing also about the losses of many Canadians and their bravery at the 2nd Battle of Ypres, Flanders Fields, the Somme, Hill 70, Passchendaele, the Hindenburg Line, and others. They know about the 100 days in 1918 leading to Mons and the Armistice in November 1918. They go to honour and remember a time in Canada’s history that can not, must not, be forgotten. We try to forget that war is about the young.

Wolfe Island does not have a War Memorial, per say. Nor was Remembrance Day officially acknowledged on the island until 1994 when a plaque was erected that expresses worthy sentiments regarding the service of island citizens to their county in the military in times of war and peace. A First Remembrance Day event was held at the WI Town Hall that year. And one has been held every year since then. First organized by the Women’s Institutes and the CWL, the service is ecumenical in nature, included the island’s school children, and was hosted by CAO Terry O’Shea on behalf of the township. Simple in its presentation, Remembrance Day has become an important occasion for the community to come together along with Officer Cadets from RMC/CMR, and members of CFB Kinston. Now it is organized by community representatives, associations and individuals along with the township. Like the Vimy Anniversary, it is about remembering.

On Remembrance Day 2003, WI resident (now Brig. General) David Paterson, spoke of researching the lives of six island casualties of war whose names he had heard read at the service in 1999, and of visiting four of the six memorials and graves of the men in Europe. They were: John Rogers killed in 1915 at the Second Battle of Ypres; also Arden McRae and Edward Walters; and 2nd World War casualties Millard Horne who died in a Lancaster Bomber in 1945; Earl Joslin, whose boat was machine gunned in Germany in 1945. Over the years Patterson provided more information about WI born Irwin Kelly, who died at the age of 21 at the Hindenburg line during the last days of World War 1 ; and of Frank Payne an island airman who died in an air campaign leading up to Operation Husky in 1943 -recorded as missing on an RAF Memorial in Malta. And in 1915 came news concerning Frederick Leonard Davis, born on WI and farmed in Joyceville, with the PPCLI and struck down in action near Cambrai, October 10 1918, and buried one month before the war ended. And finally in 2016 on Remembrance Day, Brig. General Patterson spoke of WI’s John Alexander Rogers, who enlisted in 1914 with the 2nd Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, and was killed (no known grave) on April 22nd 1915 at Ypres.

Vimy Ridge has been described as “a symbol of Canadian identity and history, a coming of age.“ The beauty, the sacredness,and the sadness of the memorial and the horror of the numbers who died there will surely remain with the youth who visit. It is they who must keep it alive. It is they who will tell the stories . And Remembrance Day still offers us all a time to remember “Lest we forget.”

Around Town:** Massage Therapy Clinic Now Open! Location: 1188A Main Street Please Call/Text Judy Gerber-van Vliet, RMT or Brooke MacDonald, RMT to book an appointment! Judy – 613-770-1803 (Monday, Thursday, Saturday) Brooke – 613-770-0720 (Tuesday). **

Coming events: Easter Egg Hunt, Communjty Centre Grounds. Sat. Apri1 15th, 11:15 am Ages – Infants to 12
(Children will be separated into 3 age categories)Bring your own basket to collect eggs

That remains to be seen. Originally islanders were certainly talking about the possibility of developing goat herds on the islands since the news came, about Feihe International Inc. and their plans to build a $225 million infant formula facility in Kingston. Mayor Doyle noted at the time “The islands are prime agricultural places close to the city, with a long history of milk production. I am sure the other townships in the county will want to do the same. I see this as the best economic development opportunity that has come about in years. Its going to take many people many farms, and many goats to make it work.”
Mayor Doyle encouraged interested residents to attend the meetings hosted by Frontenac County’s Economic Development Officer Richard Allen and KEDCO’s Carey Bidtnes. The meetings were held to encourage interest in the goat dairy industry. Although the sessions were well attended and interest was high from the surrounding areas, few people attended from the islands, according to the Mayor. However, he did note a very strong interest by those already part of the goat industry, in one way or another. FYI: Along with the cow milk based infant formula production line using skim milk from dairy farms, the Chinese infant formula company has plans to manufacture goat milk based products, and to process 75 million litres of goat milk annually as well. The high end milk formula line will begin upon the completion of the facility scheduled for construction this summer. The goat milk product line is expected to begin in 5-7 years. That is, if there is enough goat milk available. There’s the rub.
“There was a lot of information, with a lot of government rules to follow, presented at the county meetings,” according to Mayor Doyle. “But the net of it is that the average cost for a farmer to get one litre of goat milk is about a $1.30, and the price they would get at this time is only $1.00. The price has gone as high as $1.09, but either way they would lose money. Personally I cannot see many people rushing into the goat dairy business. As well there is a shortage of good goats. They are currently selling anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000 each. To have a viable farm realistically you would need to have at least 200 to 500 animals. By the time you could get into a small size production one would have to invest around $2 million or more, so that makes it difficult. If the price of milk goes up it might be a viable business.” Doyle added that the officials from OMAFRA mentioned that there were a few long- term, well-established goat milk producers who had been successful in getting their cost down to below $1.00, but for a ‘start up farmer’ in this business they should plan for what the industry average is at this time.

Howe Island Councillor Bruce Higgs made some similar observations. His concern was for young farmers who might have considered goat dairy as the way to go, and it is effectively out of reach to them. “Add to that the fact that a prospective goat dairy farmer must have a contract through a broker, of which there are only two, to get into business at this time”, Councillor Higgs said. “Goats are at a premium. And it would be best to start off with those that yield the greatest quantity. Up and down prices can be pretty scary. I don’t know how many farmers would be interested in pursuing the idea. You would have to have a good banker who believes in your story,” he said. Higgs added that there are large (1500 goats) goat dairy farmers who have built up their goat flock over time, as well as smaller goat dairy farmers in Ontario who sell their goat milk for cheese. “I went as a councillor to get information and I did.”

For funding inquiries: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada offers a loan guarantee program,
For more information contact the program directly by email at fgp-pgf@agr.gc.ca, (toll-free) at 1-866-367-8506. See also the full list of programs. Also Farm Credit Canada offers a series of financing options for farmers.

2. Visitor Accommodation on Wolfe Island: Planning is underway for a May1st meeting with the WI business community and Frontenac County Business Development Officer Richard Allen . The purpose to come up with ideas and initiatives to attract overnight and “linger longer’ tourists to island accommodation, i.e. B&B’s, hotel /cottages, cabins and other commercial facilities..

3. Take note that the ferry, Wolfe Islander II is now operating from the Marysville Dock.

Around Town: **The family of WI resident Arthur Keyes invite you to celebrate his 90th Birthday with him on Sat. April 8th 1- 4 pm at the Wolfe Island United Church Hall. Arthur was raised and is still living in the house where he was born,
April 4th 1927, and where with his wife Geneva (65 years in July), they raised four children. Known as Poppy to many, he has 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. His parents were John and Elsie Keyes.
Coming Events: ** WI Medical Clinic N.P. Walk-In’ Clinics Tues 4:30 – 6:15 pm; Thurs. 5:30-6:15 pm. Specimen, Wellness Clinic April 7th. ** Frontenac Islands Council meeting Howe Island 6:30 pm April 10, 2017

Frontenac Islands will award a contract for the Seniors Apartment Project on Wolfe Island to Wemp and Smith Construction Ltd. All procedures, processes and documents are completed for the sale, transfer and registration of the land from Scarthingmoor Farms to the township. A rather exciting time for the committee, that is working hard to see this project become a reality. The land is located in the area east of the Medical Clinic & Emergency Services Building, and at the south end of Division Street.

Following the passage of the by-law at the March meeting of council to regulate events, Councilor Springgay reminded council of the amount of waste and recycling material that ends up at the island’s waste site following these special events, and the costs involved in its disposal. May Etmanskie, Waste Recycling Depot Manager, wanted to know why there was no fee for waste from special events , a situation she believes needs to be dealt with. “It’s not the taxpayer who should bear the costs for all the extra waste,” she said. Council will review the Transfer Site bylaw for cost recovery options. (FYI-The event application form takes into whether an event is organized by a ‘not for profit’ group, or events are focused on community groups.)

In other Business: *Howe Island Garden Buds: A letter to council from their president, Shelagh McDonald, she described their Foot Ferry Gardening project, the work accomplished with “in kind” funding, received from the township, and included a refund cheque. Councilor Higgs expressed great satisfaction with their initiative and the beautiful work they have accomplished at the both the county and foot ferry docks, and asked that the township do the same * Council expressed support for the ‘Moratorium on School Closures’ and will do so by resolution. Councilor Springgay noted the loss of specialized programs in rural schools is unfairly drawing children to city schools. * The township will once again raise concerns with Kingston’s Mayor Patterson regarding the timing of the street lights at Barack and Ontario, with a request to allow a direct flow of island traffic into the city when the Wolfe Islander III unloads. * Councilor Grant wants thanks extended to Don Eves on Simcoe Island, for all he does for people there. “Most don’t realize he is not paid for it,” he said.

As the meeting drew to a close, Mayor Doyle brought council’s attention to concerns he has with regard to Bill 68 – Modernizing Municipal Legislation and its many Acts ( Conflict of Interest, Municipal Elections, etc). He said the proposed changes will impose even greater restrictions than already exist for smaller municipalities. “The province is making it even more difficult for council and committee members to serve at all,” Doyle said. “With all this bureaucracy, why would anyone want to volunteer to serve on a committee, or to run for council for that matter. I think we should pull back and maybe work with the county to make our concerns particularly for small municipalities such as ours known,” he concluded.

2. A community mourns: Every death in the small Wolfe Island community has a ripple effect, an effect that surely verifies an expression I heard when we moved here., “Everyone is related to everybody!.” And if not a direct relative, we are drawn together in other ways. Most everyone knows everyone else because we see them in the village, at the store, the post office , the library, the restaurants, local events, at church, in the line-up and “on the boat. They remain in our memory as islanders, relatives, family, neighbours, friends or acquaintances. So to lose five islanders in a short period of time, through accidents and illness has touched us all one way or another. Many islanders will also remember in their prayers Monsignor Don Clement who died recently who served as administrator of the Sacred Heart Parish when it was without a pastor.

Around Town: * The WI Community Medical Clinic reminds you that there are now two, Nurse Practitioner led Walk-In’ Clinics held weekly, Tuesday 4:30 – 6:15 pm, with NP Emma Hughes and Thursdays with NP Karen Fisher 5:30-6:15 pm. The cost to the clinic for these valuable services is approaching $20,000 per year which represents a big effort by the clinic board and the volunteers who act as receptionists. The costs are achieved through fund raising, and donations. Islanders who have not yet met the NP’s are encouraged to use these service when they need some after-hours care. Bring your OHIP card. Their AGM is coming up on May 30th. The board would welcome your ideas for the future of the clinic. For your information, Dr. Russell continues to meet with her patients, by appointment on Tuesday’s from 1pm - 4pm. She is no longer holding an after hours walk-in clinic.

Coming Events : Frontenac Islands Council meets on Howe Island Mon. April 10th 6:30 pm

It was another of those, one after the other, meetings for Frontenac Island’s council members and staff, as they looked to completing this year’s budget before moving on to a regular council meeting. It’s an interesting thing about budgets particularly if you understand little, other than budgets determine what you pay in taxes, and are taxes are always too high.

As a matter of interest the 2017 budgetary process for Frontenac Islands was done by a small group including the head of public works, the two fire chiefs, the deputy clerk treasurer, the administrative assistant, the CAO, and councillors involved with community groups. They began with a review of the past year, looked at new and non repeated issues and items projected into the new year. Council then set a target percentage increase that they felt was manageable by the citizens. Public meetings were held and numbers were shuffled around, all the while keeping in mind the fixed changes such as the increase in OPP costs (up another $100,000) for 2017, contracts, new equipment required, etc., along with new projects.
Changes in reserves were noted….such as using them for major asset purchases, and replacing/increasing them for future asset changes. As the numbers were agreed to they were entered into the spreadsheet which the treasurer operated, and the bottom line, i.e. the change in tax rate, was calculated. That bottom line is by ward, based on the latest current value assessment of properties, as provided by MPAC. Added to the township spending plans are the school taxes and the county taxes, provided by the school boards and the county.

The result of all that effort by the staff, with earlier input by those who submitted funding requests (groups, associations, etc.), for budget year 2017, the increases for both wards is 3.9% to the mill rate. The mill rate is the charge by $1,000 assessment on individual properties. For 2017 that increase can be summarized as being 2% for the OPP increase, 1% for asset management (reserves), and the balance for operating and capital changes for the new year. This is all based on the total assessment, which actually decreased from the prior year, as many who have received MPAC notices will know. This increase and the budget will be formally adopted at the next council meeting on Howe Island.

Some of the detailed discussions follow: Fire Chief Tim Hawkins returned to request an increase in the training allotment from $2000 to $4000 as originally submitted, noting that courses are very expensive and he hopes to offer more of them.. (Funding for this request will come from department reserves now at $25,000).

Chief Hawkins brought to the attention of council the need for more space for training and storage. “We would like to get back the old fire hall on the dock from Steve Fargo,” he said. (Fargo’s has already exceeded the 1-2 year rental agreement for storage.) They will be notified that as of January 1, 2018 the ‘old fire hall’ will no longer be available for rent. Hawkins had thoughts about Canada’s 150th, noting no one has stepped up as yet with ideas, suggesting that linking to certain future events might be one way (Canada Day, Round Up.)

*WI Community Centre Board representative Councillor Springgay presented budget reductions proposed in the areas of contracted services, hydro, and other materials with the amount for reserves reduced to $10,000 .

*As Frontenac Islands building permit fees are lower than in other communities, staff will undertake an investigation to determine a comparable rate.

*When it comes to Howe Island’s Roads Councillor Nossal and Councillor Bruce Higgs engaged in a discussion with Public Works Manager Dillabaugh regarding a 4 phase project on Spithead Road (a priority in the in the township’s asset management plan), with the two phases to be completed in 2017 at a cost estimate of $96,800, to be transferred from the Howe Island roads reserves. A further $4,000 will be transferred from reserves for some work on the North Shore Road.
* There are other increases for Howe specifically the HI Trail $2000 to $4000; also a $500. contribution to reserves.
*And finally for Wolfe Island, The ‘Friends of Ferals will receive $1500 and WI’s Community Support Program $1000. for a Canada 150th Celebration, both amounts from amenities money. Good News—having completed budget deliberations, it is now onward on to the budget’s adoption on April 10th.

Around Town: Please Note; Violations of half load road restrictions, once in place, will lead to call for By Law enforcement. (cameras help) .** The WI Music Festival has been confirmed for Aug.11-12th .** Check Summer Jobs at www.frontenacislands.ca **Look for Station 14 Kington’s video about the new Wolfe Island Springs Craft Brewery located at WI’s Metal Craft Bldg. with Brew Master Rene Ziegelmaier, and WI Grill’s Casey & Nicole Fisher owners of the business. * Nurse Practitioner Walk In Clinic’s Tuesday's 4:10 pm-6:15 pm Thursday's: 5:30 pm-7:15 pm Bring OHIP card. (Costs covered by Medical Clinic)* ** Goat Farming Sessions. Frontenac County Offices March 23; 2 - 4 p.m.; 7 - 9 p.m.; register online at: 2pm: https://goat-farming.eventbrite.ca at 7pm: https://goat-farming-2.eventbrite.ca. *Euchre St. Margaret’s Hall 7pm March 27th.

MTO has informed the residents of Wolfe Island that their ferry, the Wolfe Islander III will not be returning to Marysville just yet. With what looks like there might be an early spring, and hopefully a rise in water levels, many islanders are looking for the ferry to move from the Dawson Point docking facility to the ”summer” dock in the village, sooner than later But at the present time, according to the notification, maintenance work on the hydraulic cylinders used to lift the ferry is underway. At the same time water levels continue to be monitored, and the ferry will be moved once it is safe to do so, according to MTO.

It is interesting that the notice suggests many islanders are looking forward to the ferry’s move, which is true of course. But many are ‘not wondering when the ferry will be returning to the village.’ To quote one such person,” I love the efficiency for loading/unloading and the parking at Dawson Point.” And from another , “ from Dawson Point the lineup is clear, parking, as well as drop off and pick up is easier and you are always headed home (east or west) at least 5 minutes earlier.” and “ if you want to stop off in the village there is time and parking around to do so”, etc.… Of course facilities at Dawson Point are sparse, although there is a warm waiting cabin. Unless you live in the village or you are buying coffee at the WHIP during the winter months, it is not bad. And it sure has been an easy winter….

2. Get behind “ Rural Schools Matter”, a volunteer group of parents, grandparents and other community members, chaired by “Robin Hutcheon” , who are distressed that the Ministry of Education wishes to close one out of eight schools in the province, and that the Limestone District School Board plans to close all of the schools in the Township of Stone Mills, plus Selby. On Wed, March 8th they will host a peaceful, but determined, rally at the Limestone District School Board office on Portsmouth Ave. in Kingston, from 5 to 6 pm. The board will reviewing a plan to close Yarker Family School, and bus students to Odessa instead.
‘Rural Schools Matter’ is looking for you support at the rally. Their press release notes that what is going on “points to a disturbing trend towards school closures and consolidation, a problem for citizens of all ages.” This will be the second of several rallies intended to raise local awareness of the impact of school closures and to convince school board trustees to keep our rural schools. The threat of rural school closings has taken on new meaning in our own region, and in the rest of Ontario. Frontenac Islands is an isolated, rural island community (Howe, Wolfe, Simcoe) with schools on Wolfe Island, Marysville Public, and Sacred Heart.”
Recently Mayor Doyle with members of the community Schools Alliance met with Minister of Education, Mitzi Hunter, (she who said recently “a school is the heart of a community”) at the ROMA Conference, to bring to her attention not only the detrimental results of school closures, both economic and social, on rural communities. But also the impact on children’s health as a result of long hours of travelling to and from school. He noted that the costs of closing and disposing of schools and extra bussing are probably well known, but was the fact that MPAC property values will go down as people with young children leave a community with others not likely to move in. “Schools slated for closure, and the impact closures have on communities are big issues for rural municipalities,” Doyle said at the time.
It’s time to follow this important Issue…

3. All About Goat Farming: Two Public Information Sessions at Frontenac County offices in Glenburnie—
Date: Thursday, March 23; Time: First session: 2 - 4 p.m.; Second session: 7 - 9 p.m.; Frontenac County offices, 2069 Battersea Road, Glenburnie-Seating is limited. Please register online at: 2pm: https://goat-farming.eventbrite.ca
7pm: https://goat-farming-2.eventbrite.ca Goat milk will be the foundation of an innovative, hypoallergenic product manufactured and as much as possible produced locally at a Feihe infant formula plant slated for Kingston. It is to be Canada’s only wet formula facility and North America's first and only producer of goat milk-based infant formula. The two information sessions, both with the same content, are being held to educate interested community members about the goat milk industry, including regulations and start-up considerations and to accommodate interested people. The content of the sessions will be valuable for those who are currently running farming operations and looking to expand to produce goat milk, or those hoping to enter the farming industry. However, anyone interested in the Feihe project is welcome to attend.
The project is seen as an opportunity that could provide multiple opportunities for both local and regional economic development, from the construction of the plant, to the company's plans to produce goat milk based formula. Kingston’s Economic Development Corporation together with Frontenac County and the Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs will develop an Ontario plan for expansion of the goat milk industry

Around Town: **The annual Wolfe Island St Patrick's Day Seniors Lunch will be held Saturday, March 18 at the United Church Hall,12:00 noon. (hosted together by the WI Women's Institutes). ** Notice to truckers and shippers 2017— Half Load restrictions expected to start March 6th on all Frontenac Islands roads.

Progress: the Frontenac Islands Senior housing project is at the “waiting to move forward stage” at this time. The Board of Directors, (a committee of council) has been meeting regularly, almost weekly, issuing first an EOI (expression of interest) followed by an RFP ( request for proposals) in December, describing the type of energy efficient building the township was looking for, as stated in a previous article, “a building, approximately 4,500 square feet, with four one bedroom units, one two bedroom unit and a common area for people to meet and socialize. One contract will be awarded to a design-build firm for the project.’

At this time, a preferred contractor has been chosen from among three very competitive bids for the Wolfe Island project with details presently being worked on. However, there are further issues to be resolved, not least among them the formal acquisition, transfer and clearing of land given by owner John Weatherall, land close to the WI community Medical Clinic and the WI Emergency Services (Ambulance & Fire Hall) building . It is at the end of Division Street with the Community Centre Grounds and the WI Community Hall at the other. And, so the committee waits for those issues to be finalized before they move on to the next steps, the final design of the project and construction specifications. It is the committee’s intention, if the above issues have been resolved, to submit a request to council at their March meeting to issue a contract for construction of the WI Senior’s Apartment project, with a projected fall opening date planned. Committee members include Mayor Doyle, Councillor Wayne Grant, Brian Scovill, Kathy Horton, Mikaela Hughes, Walter Knott, & CAO Darlene Plumley, as secretary, and advisor, Patrick Thompson.

FYI: Senior Housing was chosen as a priority by Wolfe Islanders a number of years ago. What residents said at the time was that they wanted a facility that was affordable, in the village, operated locally and offering safety, independence, socialization and the opportunity to remain on the island. In its Strategic Plan, Frontenac County. Council chose senior housing as the first of 3 projects to focus on over a five year period and to build one five unit seniors apartment facility in each of the four townships in Frontenac County. County Council approved the hiring of a consultant to assist in moving forward and subsequently approved $335,000 for (each of) North, South, Central and Frontenac Islands-(Wolfe Island) Township. Public meetings were held throughout Frontenac County to determine need, and Marysville was chosen for a first seniors housing project under the auspices of Frontenac County.
2. Pruning Workshop on Wolfe |Island 10 am-2pm, March 4th Horne’s Orchard.
Have you ever wanted to learn how to prune your own trees? Come to the island for a workshop on the basics of pruning.
The (OWA) Ontario Woodlot Association (Limestone Chapter) will host an Apple Orchard Pruning Workshop at Bruce Horne’s orchard. Justin Smith, Certified Arborist, will instruct participants in a hands-on workshop and ensure that all go home well prepared to tackle their own pruning job. Participants are encouraged to bring a pair of pruning shears and to dress for the weather as this is an outdoor event. The workshop is on Saturday, March 4 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm and the location is Horne’s apple orchard at 2041 Hwy. 95 (just before the U.S. ferry dock) on Wolfe Island. For mainlanders, the Wolfe Island Ferry departs Kingston at 9:30 am. Or consult the Ferry Schedule at http://www.wolfeisland.com/ferry.php A chili lunch will be provided. The cost of the event is $10.00 for non-OWA members, and free to members. All are welcome. Preregistration is required: please contact Kevin Hansen (President of the OWA – Limestone Chapter) at: 613-449-0732 or kevin.hansen@sympatico.ca .

To learn more about the Ontario Woodlot Association, visit www.ontariowoodlot.com The Ontario Woodlot Association, through its network of Chapters across the Province, brings people together to share ideas and learn about forest management. To ensure the viability of non-crown land forests, they promote sustainable forestry management and advocate on behalf of woodlot owners.
And about Bruce Horne’s Apple Orchard. Every year since 2007, Peggy Smith and Bruce Horne give over their apple orchard at 2041 Rd.#95 for a Wolfe Island Early Years Centre Fundraiser in late September. It’s a pick your own apples and bring your own bags affair and more… Great Family Fun.. Watch for it……

Around Town: **Do buy a ticket for the Medical Clinic’s fund raiser, a play “Village of Idiots” at the Domino Theatre March 8, at 7:30 pm. Tickets $20. from WI Clinic board members ** A Massage Clinic is opening on WI at the former hair salon in Marysville, staffed by Registered Massage Therapists (RMT’s) Brooke MacDonald and Judy Gerber-van Vliet, who are working together to provide the service and are accepting new clients. ** Notice to truckers and shippers 2017— Half Load restrictions expected to start March 6th on All Frontenac Islands roads. (Date could change in the event of extreme rain) www.frontenacislands.ca

Frontenac Islands Council had a Busy Day on Howe Island by Marg Knott
It was a long day for the Frontenac Islands council members and staff. First there was a budget meeting held in advance of the regular monthly council meeting . Council’s budget deliberations had the objective to hold the tax increase to 1.75 % to 2% , as agreed upon at a preliminary meeting. That of course is without consideration of the policing costs, which by themselves will cause a 2% municipal budget increase, beyond the control of the municipality.
Council focussed budget deliberations on the needs of the community, as determined through previous priority setting. There was a line by line review of the revenue and expense documents. beginning with administration, including Howe and Wolfe Island building improvements, emergency management, planning, WI roads, waste, recycling, culture and recreation..
Council reviewed a budget, with some minor amendments, presented by Howe Island’s Fire Chief Mike Quinn that includes the replacement of two vehicles within a defined price range, and completing the asphalt surface of the fire hall driveway with funding. Regarding Wolfe Island Fire and Rescue, Council considered the purchase of a used vehicle that was available and that fits with the WI emergency vehicle replacement schedule. Funds from the sale of surplus vehicles would be placed in the equipment reserve fund. The next, and perhaps final budget meeting, will be held on March 13th at the WI Town Hall at 1 pm, where the Howe Island ferry and all of; Wolfe Island Community Centre Board, building, wind, roads, waste, recycling, culture, and recreation figures will be reviewed, for the passage of the Frontenac Islands 2017 budget at the March monthly township council meeting.

2. Wolfe Island Music Festival Organizer Virginia Clarke attends Council Meeting
Virginia Clarke attended the meeting to outline plans for an August 11-12, 2017 festival after a one year absence. The Music Festival ran into trouble financially when the Wolfe Islander III ferry was out of service the entire summer of 2015, and the smaller Frontenac II did not land in Marysville resulting in lower attendance and higher costs, which included the rental of a commercial passenger boat. Those troubles and the many festivals in the area resulted in the cancellation of the 2016 festival. During the last year and into 2017 Clarke organized a number of fund raising events locally and in Toronto and is ready now to plan for a 2017 Music Festival. “The environment for festivals has changed a lot since we began 18 years ago,” Clarke said. “But there is a lot of support for this festival and a lot of people who want to see it happen. After the crippling financial hit incurred in 2015 I am asking for a break…to get wind back in our sails…”
Clarke is asking for use of the usual Community Centre grounds location for setup and take down from Aug.11-13th and access to the community centre building for storage of goods as well a request for amendment to the noise bylaw as usual. She proposed a different arrangement however with the bar, food, licensing and insurance provided by the festival including, as in the past, set up and cleanup. She noted that the festival provides security at the site and shares policing costs with the township. A discussion regarding a fee for use of the grounds, followed with no decision. The township will request that the Frontenac County Economic Development analyse the economic value of the Music Festival to Wolfe Island, with financial input from the township, to establish a rental fee for the grounds. Ms. Clarke’s request will be back on the agenda for further discussion at the March 13th meeting of council.

2. Economic Development: Mayor Doyle invited Richard Allen Frontenac County Manager of Economic Development to address Council. “ Its been an incredible couple of months working for the County and it is my pleasure to be here to tell you what we are working on,” Mr. Allen said. He highlighted among other things the Brand (IN-Frontenac ) Ambassador Program, its ambassadors and the excellent work of the County’s Vanderveld. “It is amazing how businesses are making the brand their own. IN-Frontenac Program will have a web portal which will include a business directory, a commercial and agricultural land inventory and much more to be added over the next months with wings to the townships.” The county is also undertaking an accommodation review. Allen continued with reference to the development opportunities in agriculture in cash crops, dairy and specifically the proposed goat milk industry development for Kingston and the region. Council meets next : March 13th

Around Town: Pancake Supper Sat. Feb 25th, 4-7pm St. Margaret’s Hall sponsored by the Anglican Parish of Wolfe Island. Cost: $5.00 **Do buy a ticket for the Medical Clinic’s fund raiser, a play “Village of Idiots” at the Domino Theatre March 8, at 7:30 pm.Tickets $20. *Don’t forget the “SOCK IT TO US” campaign to Feb. 25th. ** Take note that a new Massage Clinic is now open on WI at the former hair salon in Marysville staffed by Registered Massage Therapists (RMT’s) Brooke MacDonald and Judy Gerber-van Vliet who are working together to provide the service and are accepting new clients.

Ever since my appointment to the Frontenac County Accessibility committee (which requires for membership, that you have a disability) and well aware that my disability is progressing to an even more awkward stage, I have come to recognize ever more clearly the difficulties the disabled face in our society. And I refer not only to the physically disabled, but include those without sight or hearing, and so much more. I dare to look at things in our society that I previously would not have defined as disabling. The AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) uses the same broad definition of disability, “ any degree of physical, developmental, mental or learning disability that limits a person’s movements, senses or activities,” as does the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHR).

With the AODA, accessibility is associated with the design of products, devices, services and environments, and includes laws through the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Ontario Building Code. It addresses barriers in customer service, information and communication, employment, and transportation and public space design, all with an objective of improving accessibility opportunities for people with disabilities. AODA defines a barrier as a “circumstance or obstacle that keeps people apart, taking many forms for the disabled listing communication, physical, policy, programming, social, transportation and attitudinal.

It is this latter, attitude, that caught my attention recently. Quite a number of years ago someone in our community provided a pair of shoes for a disabled person. I knew that person needed the shoes, it was obvious, but I did nothing about it, a non-act I regret to this day. I could have, should have, but didn’t, and the question I have to ask myself was why, was it attitudinal ?

The kind of society we have today, with regard to all forms of disability, is much better than the one in which I grew up. In those earlier years, people with disabilities experienced abuse, exclusion—they were hidden away, neglect, discrimination, and racism. They had no supports, they were stared at, jeered at, had little access to education, or work, or housing. Even worse if a person of colour, or indigenous,. And even more horrendous was sterilization of the disabled, severe restraint of the aged, or disabled, within a severe institutionalization structure. There was no awareness of Alzheimer’s or dementia. The disabled were even prevented from coming to Canada. Some of the effects of all this remain with us today.

The Law Commission of Ontario has stated: “Disability” continues to be the most frequently cited ground of discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) in human rights claims made to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO).” The OHRC noted: “A person’s experience may be complicated further when discrimination based on a disability intersects with discrimination based on other Code grounds, such as race, sex, sexual orientation, age or another type of disability, etc. “ Today, 15.5% of Ontario’s population has a disability and this number will continue to grow as the population ages”.

All of the above to say, the Frontenac County Accessibility Committee will continue to mentor for the disabled and promote the AODA, its aims and objectives. At the same time Frontenac County is working on an “Age Friendly “ Project that includes older persons.. Watch for more to come.

Around Town: ** On again off again weather, but we still have great skating , many visiting skaters and teams coming to our shores. **Members of Wolfe Island Community Medical Clinic, and Wolfe Island Friends of Ferals, invite you to buy a ticket from them to their fund raising event, a play “Village of Idiots” by John Lazarus at Kingston’s Domino Theatre on Wednesday March 8, at 7:30 pm. Come join their evening out: Tickets are; $20. Each ** May have more positive information about the WI Music Festival after this week’s Township Council Meeting. ***Wolfe Island is looking forward to welcoming everyone to the 37th Annual Wolfe Island Classic 5 & 10K Run/Walk, JULY 2nd at 9:30 am.. All proceeds of the race go to support the Wolfe Island Community Medical Clinic. Last year the Clinic was pleased to be able to offer a Nurse Practitioner walk-in Clinic which they are hoping to expand in the near future. The Wolfe Island Classic is part of the Kingston Road Runners Association (KRRA) race series. Visit their website - wolfeislandclassic.com
***And finally take note that : Local first responders are joining forces and will collect socks during the “SOCK IT TO US” Kingston campaign February 19 to 25. Collection boxes will be in all participating paramedic stations, fire halls and headquarters for the staff of Frontenac Paramedic Services, Kingston Police and Kingston Fire and Rescue Services to donate new socks. *Note: While local first responders collect socks through their internal campaign, there will also be collection boxes for the general public at Kingston Police Head Quarters, as well as the County of Frontenac’s reception area in Glenburnie. Watch for other locations perhaps on the Islands.

Frontenac Islands Mayor Denis Doyle returned from the ROMA conference satisfied with the conference, and pleased, for the most part with the extra meetings he and CAO Plumley had with officials regarding particular island issues .

“ We were very pleased with our meeting with Minister Steven Del Duca, (Transportation), Eastern Regional Director Kathy Moore and MTO staff,” the Mayor said on his return to Wolfe Island. . “Our briefing notes sent in advance of the meeting outlined for the Minister some community concerns with the high cost of the proposed ferry docks in Marysville and our hope that some of the money could be spent on our transportation link on connecting roads. We were able to present our case to the Minister with regard to Road 7501, that’s the road from the Dawson Point dock to Rd #96 and on to Road 95 to Alexandria Pt. (& ferry to the USA), our transportation link which was the main point of our discussion ,” Doyle said.
These roads were downloaded during the 1997/98 restructuring agreement. Rd 7051 built in the 6o’s with a sand base has badly deteriorated over the years, more so since all construction vehicles, equipment and materials travelled the roads to build the 86-tower wind farm as well as its heavy use to the present.

“ We requested that MTO take them back as they are an international link between (Kingston) Canada /USA and suggested when rebuilding the Rd 7051 portion it should be rerouted more directly to Rd 96 and include a bicycle path throughout,” Doyle added.

“And finally since the new 75 car ferry for Wolfe Island is not expected until 2020 we also requested that when the new Amherst Islander goes into service in 2019, that the Frontenac II be put into service along with the Wolfe Islander III on the Wolfe Island route during the busy summer and shoulder months. We received a very positive hearing from Minister Del Duca and MTO staff who will consider our requests,” Mayor Doyle concluded.

*** Winter Fest : At last, the ground is covered with snow on Frontenac Islands. Hopefully the snow will remain for Wolfe Island’s ‘Winterfest’ coming up Sunday February 12th.
‘Winterfest’ formerly known as ‘Chili Fest’ has been part of Wolfe Island’s winter season fun for many years . In the past it was held at the Old Fire Hall in Marysville, located behind Fargo’s Store close to the Wolfe Island Ferry dock. There, in the spirit of the winter season, outdoor activities were the focus of the day's events along with the popular varieties of chili that brought out the islanders. As the Chili Contest was underway, close by dependant on a frozen bay there was skating and sleigh rides and wind surfers, and those simply enjoying a winter day. It was a great event in those earlier years, and it is now. In 2012 for the first time Wolfe Island’s Chili Fest was held at the Community Centre Grounds in Marysville beside the new NHL sized rink, with its icemaking machinery. That year, as it does every year, Chili Fest brought together island chefs with their special recipes vying for the title of “best chili cook” and a continuous stream of visitors ready to vote.
The new rink provided the location for the presentation of an award by the Township honouring the WI Hockeyville Committee of volunteers for their community spirit. Through their efforts the WI community became one of 5 Canadian communities to compete to become the $100,000 winner in the 2011 CBC Kraft Hockeyville Competition. (Wolfe Island did not win the grand prize but was the recipient of $25,000.)

Since that time, with the support of the township, the Wolfe Island Community Centre Board and its many volunteers continue to FUND RAISE to make improvements to the rink which now has a roof, excellent lighting, etc., and to provide amenities to make the Community Centre the “Go To Place” on the island all year. The Centre also has 3 baseball diamonds and a corral for horse races etc. Winterfest Wolfe Island takes place Sunday, Feb. 12th beginning at 12:30 pm with members of the Voyageurs Hockey Team on the ice. Family Skating at 1:30 and of course.. the Chili Contest…And continues as a great annual event.

Around Town: Wishing Rev. Mike Bohler , Pastor at the WI United Church a speedy recovery from recent surgery. ** Frontenac Islands Council meets next Mon.Feb.13th at 6:30 pm on Howe Island **The Island Grill. Open Fridays from 4 pm to 10 pm \ Sat. 10am to 10 pm. http://www.wolfeislandgrill.ca call 613-382-1515 to make a reservation. ** WI Medical Clinic Walk -in Clinics Thursdays 5:00pm-7:15pm, with NP Karen Fisher. Also a Walk In Clinic with Dr. Russell Tuesday’s 4:45-6:15 pm. Bring OHIP card **Register now for the WI Classic Road Race at events.com. Early bird prices in effect until April 30th.

This is a very odd time of year on Frontenac Islands, particularly this year. Without the heavy dumps of snow and the deep frost the islands are accustomed to, the winter thus far has been dreary, soggy and sun deprived.
It is a winter that is wrecking roads that are not paved, which includes most of them, as well as affecting even those roads that have been hard surfaced. No doubt a rather frustrating situation for the Public Works department. Is it any wonder that the township’s highest budget figure is always allotted to roads?
A positive of course, has been Wolfe Island’s covered rink, that has provided a wonderful outlet for everyone, skater and spectator alike. And, on a number of weekends, based on the ferry traffic coming and going, its many, many visitors. It of course, still requires the temperature to be cold enough……
**. Breaking News just in: Mayor Denis Doyle has been appointed as Chair of the KFL&A Public Health Unit Board, where he has served as Frontenac County representative. “ I have thoroughly appreciated working as a member of the board and I am deeply honoured to have been chosen by my colleagues to serve as their chair,” he said. “ I look forward to continuing our work with the KFL&A Health Unit to deliver effective public health programs to all residents in Kingston and the two counties.” Mayor Doyle also looks forward to working with provincial counterparts to improve systems and lower costs.
** Mayor Denis Doyle and CAO Darlene Plumley are off to ROMA, the Rural Ontario Municipal Association Conference, where they will meet with the Minister of Education Mitzie Hunter, regarding very specifically the impact of rural school closures on rural municipalities. (Heritage Jan.25th). Doyle along with three other members of the Community Schools Alliance hope to bring to the Minister’s attention not only the detrimental results of school closures on rural communities (economic, social). But also the impact on children’s health as a result of spending long hours travelling to and from school. “The costs of closing and disposing of schools and extra bussing are probably well known .
but the fact that MPAC property values will go down as people with young children leave a community (with others not likely to move in) resulting in lower tax revenue to the school system is not well understood, or quantified. These are big issues for rural municipalities. We also have a meeting with the leader of the official opposition, Patrick Brown, to review the same information that we will cover with Minister Hunter,” Doyle said.

There will be two further meetings, one with Minister Marie-France Lalonde Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services on the OPP, with regard to the inappropriate charges applied for the policing of wind towers ( and Wolfe Island has many) and other concerns. Their final meeting is with the Minister of Transportation Steven Del Duca regarding the township’s request that MTO take back Road #7051, ( road to Dawson Point Dock), as well as to briefly discuss the new ferry schedule.

** And about the latter: Much is underway related to Wolfe Island ferry transportation, including the EA for docking improvements. Planning for a 75 car ferry is also happening with the Ministry issuing RFQ’s – (Request for Qualifications to build ferries for Amherst Island and Wolfe Island. This RFQ process will be followed by RFP’s – (Request for Proposals with prices) from up to five qualifying bidders. Then should come a contract to build a ferry for Amherst, and then a contract for a ferry for Wolfe Island. Minister Del Duca announced the process for Amherst Island on a ferry ride with MPP Sophie Kiwala to Amherst Island in June of last year.
According to the minister, designing and building the ferry for Amherst Island will take approximately 24 months. It is understood that when the new vessel is in service, the Frontenac II, will become the back-up ferry providing support during extended and unplanned service breakdowns affecting Wolfe and Amherst Islands The ferry for Wolfe Island could take an additional 12 months. The ferry component for WI is part of the EA for docking facilities. An EA for the Amherst ferry is not required as it is not increasing capacity. There, dock improvements are slated to begin in late summer 2017. It is probably safe to say the ferry for Amherst is guaranteed and that Wolfe Islanders are hopeful.
Around Town: ** Frontenac Islands Council meets next Mon.Feb.13th at 6:30 pm on Howe Island ** Organizers of the Wolfe Island Music Festival are out there raising funds to make it happen again, by hosting a fundraiser entitled the Wolfe Island “Winter Ball” Music Festival, at Toronto's The Great Hall on Feb. 26th. **The Island Grill. Open Fridays from 4 pm to 10 pm \ Sat. 10am to 10 pm. http://www.wolfeislandgrill.ca call 613-382-1515 to make a reservation. ** WI Medical Clinic Walk -in Clinics Thursdays 5:00pm-7:15pm, with NP Karen Fisher. Also a Walk In Clinic with Dr. Russell Tuesday’s 4:45-6:15 pm. Bring OHIP card **Register now for the WI Classic Road Race at events.com. Early bird prices in effect until April 30th.

Since the closure of the landfill site on Wolfe Island, for years known simply as “The Dump”, and for some time before, the Township of Frontenac Islands has taken a firm stand on improving how waste of all kinds is dealt. It was through recycling, whether paper glass or electronics at a what is now the township’s Wolfe Island Transfer site, and Howe Island’s Waste and Recycling Centre in accord with Ontario’s waste management requirements. The WI site is one of the busiest places in town throughout the year, with ever improving collection services, and with staff encouraging recycling rather filling the costly waste bin with contents slated for a landfill site, and citizens eager to support island groups & organizations by donating bottle returns for their use.

“Ontario has been working on the strategy for the “Waste Free Ontario Act (Bill 151),” Mayor Doyle said this week. “It was reviewed at county council recently and we will continue to do so. The strategy has two goals, an Ontario with zero waste and zero greenhouse gas emissions. Personally, I think this is an opportune time to start talking with islanders about the changes in this new Bill 151 What it means though, is that we have to have a higher rate of participation in recyclables to benefit from the changes in the bill. Currently through a fairly complicated process we get back 50% of the cost for handling all the blue box items, the recyclables. This new bill puts 100% of the responsibility in the hands of the manufacturer of the products, their packaging, etc.. One of the benefits of the bill is to force the producers is to cut down on the packaging,” Doyle said.
The Mayor noted that it is possible that in the future there producers will have their own collection sites but, until then the responsibility will continue to fall to municipalities. “ We need to encourage more recycling although we are doing better than the Ontario average on Wolfe, but are not quite there on Howe.” Doyle pointed out that by putting blue box items into a regular garbage bag, and into the waste stream, “you are throwing tax payers dollars into a landfill site. So we are going to have to open this discussion up to the community and encourage every one to participate.”
He also pointed out that the DeBruin Bio Digester on Wolfe Island receives WI organic waste and encourages its greater use by residents who do not compost. “Doing so could reduce the number of trucks going on the ferry with waste by some 30 %, another very important consideration, as well as diverting organic waste away from land fill sites.”
Doyle pointed out that other municipalities trying to improve on poor recycling situations have gone to clear garbage bags, bag tags and only one bag a week per household. “Those scenarios would create more work and require extra staff. We would rather that our citizens become involved and recycle so that the township can benefit from whatever Bill 151 has to offer. If that doesn’t happen our taxes will have to go up . We don’t want to do that,” he concluded.

On another Issue: Mayor Doyle will meet with the Minister of Education of Ontario ,Mitzi Hunter, at the Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) conference in regard to school closures, “specifically rural school closings.. Both Minister Hunter and Mr. Raycraft, a member of our committee a former MPP and school principal, were on a Steve Pakin’s Agenda Program to discuss the fate of several low-enrolment schools slated for closure, and the impact closures have on communities,” Mayor Doyle said. “And recently, at a new school opening Minister Hunter in her dedication said a school is the heart of a community. In our community we know that to be true and within our small community we also know that without a heart, things die.. closing rural schools will rip the heart out of a community. That’s what we will try to impress upon the minister,” he said.

Around Town: **The WIPP continues to be the go to place during this rather strange winter . lunch time and coffee breaks see many cars in Marysville, including evenings.. ** Last winter the WI Community Garden group initiated a project that partnered the Community Garden group with the Parents’ Council and the senior class (Grade 4 – 8) at Marysville Public School. A wonderful success story was posted on a website but too long to include here. Ask about it. * * Congratulations to Nicole and Casey Fisher on expanding their seasonal business into offering winter hours at The Wolfe Island Grill. This comfortable waterfront dining experience is now available Fridays from 4 pm to 10 pm and Saturdays from 10am to 10 pm. Check out their Facebook posts at the http://www.wolfeislandgrill.ca to see the upcoming music events or call 613-382-1515 to make a reservation. ** WI Medical Clinic Walk -in Clinics Thursdays 5:00pm-7:15pm, with NP Karen Fisher. Also a Walk In Clinic with Dr. Russell following her regular office hours Tuesday’s 4:45-6:15 pm. Bring OHIP card **Register now for the WI Classic Road Race at events.com. Early bird prices in effect until April 30th. **The WI Music Festival will be back in 2017, if the organizers can raise sufficient funds to do so.

The Township of Frontenac Islands held their first meeting of the new year on Wolfe Island. And I have to think it was their shortest.. A good thing based on the difficulties staff members in particular, have been facing during the long process of building an accessible washroom behind the township office in the community hall. On this occasion, overnight before the meeting, skunks had gotten under the building. Along with the dust, dirt, and noise of the washroom/ramp construction, (without an inside facility) and to add insult to injury, no internet access, the smell of skunks had overtaken the building. Nearly too much?
A .Economic Development: Howe Island Councillor Bruce Higgs took very seriously the development opportunity the Feihe International Inc., infant formula manufacturing company, is offering the community. With their plans to manufacture goat milk based products, process 75 million litres of goat milk annually, it can bring jobs to the region. He called on the expertise of a friend to hear what might, or could, be possible. “I was in touch with my friend Bruce Vandenberg, who with his wife Sharon, is the owner of Lenberg Farms, a 1300 goat & sheep dairy farm in Lindsay. It’s where with all the milk produced cheeses are made (Mariposa Dairy), and we discussed the proposed goat milk plant for Kingston and what it could mean for Frontenac County, and the islands of course,” Councillor Higgs said, as he handed out a summary, fact filled document prepared with his friend’s assistance to members of council. “Richard is prepared to meet with council,” Hobbs said. Council members indicated a wish to see the Mariposa Dairy setup and operation in Lindsay.

The document pertaining to goat milk production is filled with important facts . It notes that at the present time in Ontario there is a shortage of live goats with very few goats available, or for sale, except perhaps in Quebec. It states that a basic, economic, goat farm would be of some 300 animals, that barns must be dry, well ventilated in summer but do not require heat. etc. There are 5 new ‘Round Table’ 90 goat, milking machines operating in Ontario, milking 800 goats per hour with one operator. The projection is that in 5 to 8 years goat milk litres in Ontario will go from to 70 to 80 million . It was 60 million for all of Canada in 2016.

That document will be forwarded to Richard Allen, the Frontenac County Economic Development Manager, requesting that a meeting be set with the larger farming community. It would be to detail what options might be available for economic development for Frontenac Islands and the region, to ensure the supply of goat milk for the new plant in the future. Exciting times.

B. Planning: The Township of Frontenac Islands will ask the County Planning Department to provide in writing the procedure required to amend the year currently stipulated for severance applications, with the intent of being allowed an increase in the number of lots per parcel of land. Council also wants an explanation with regards to the status of the Township’s Official plan, and what sections have yet to be approved.

C. Senior’s Project: The closing date for the submissions of the Request for Proposal has been changed to January 26th, 2017, at the request of those who are submitting bids.
D. Deputy Mayor Nossal expressed satisfaction with the Howe Island Township (foot) ferry staff for their “dedication and hard work” in clearing the recent backlog of vehicles due to the unforeseen shutdown of the Howe Island County ferry. She also had high praise for the Frontenac County ferry staff for keeping in touch regarding the ferry. And for the updates circulated regularly providing ferry users with current information, and explanations as to the cause of the shutdown. On another issue, the Deputy Mayor also informed Council that she had provided the names of twenty-five Howe Island home based businesses to Allison Vandervelde Frontenac County Community Development Officer in an attempt to generate economic prosperity. It was noted that to benefit from the services provided by the County, background assistance from local sources is extremely valuable.

E. The Township endorsed the request from the WI Medical Clinic for priority boarding for the Nurse Practitioner on Thursday’s. Council meets next on Feb. 13th- 6:30 pm Howe Island

Around Town: *The WI Music Festival will be back this summer. * WI Medical Clinic Walk in Clinics Thursdays 5:00pm-7:15pm, with NP. *Register now for the WI Classic Road Race at events.com. Early bird prices in effect until April 30th. * The WI Historical Society Speakers event with the Porters Postponed until a later date

Frontenac Islands held their first 2017 budget meeting on Jan. 4th. . At which time, they confirmed the items on the long list of priorities they had arrived at before Christmas requiring budget consideration. The meeting started late due to the wild weather and the rough ferry trip that brought Deputy Mayor Nossal and Councillor Higgs to Wolfe Island.
While waiting, there was an opportunity to note the steps the township is taking to meet some of the accessibility standards, and 2025 time frame laid out in the ‘AODA’ - Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act .“ A new ramp with railing has been completed beside the community hall entrance at the WI Town Hall. The ramp leads to an new entrance waiting for an accessible door, and the completion of an accessible washroom (work ongoing) also with an accessible door. The Town Hall itself will have direct access to the hall when the work is completed. With reference to the budget the amount received from Canada 150 was $54,000 with matching township funds. These funds will be identified as receivables in the 2017 budget. Interesting to note further accessibility provisions in Marysville include new curb cuts, handicap spaces and the prospect of benches and picnic tables. The township anticipates that Frontenac Islands businesses and organizations are looking for ways to contribute towards improving access for persons with disabilities, as required within the timeframe, and beyond what is legislated in the AODA.
Once started, council reviewed grants received in 2016 and possible future ones. It was noted that this was the last year of funding in the Arterial Roads Agreement for Howe Island. WI Early Years to be contacted regarding supplementary funding. Requiring budgetary consideration are : accessible washrooms at the WI Community centre; development of a Secondary Plan; consideration for a number of public works issues including roadside brushing, Lower Side Road culvert Howe Island; helipad relocation; a new building at the WI Transfer site; Electronic speed sign; lights (how many?) along Road 7051; higher fuel/ propane costs due to Cap and Trade. CAO Plumley introduced the inclusion of a $50 monthly electronics allowance for councillors to offset communications costs. Council proposed a budget in crease of 1.75 % to 2% overall. Staff will develop the material for the next budget meeting, scheduled for 10 am, Feb. 9th on Howe Island.
2. Lots of Goats…. Frontenac County recently announced that the County’s Economic Development Officer Richard Allen will be travelling on a trade visit to China. He will be part of a delegation, invited to do so by the Chinese company Feihe International Inc., an infant formula manufacturing company, with plans to build a $225 million processing, research and development facility in Kingston. According to Frontenac County Warden Ron Vandewal, it is important to be involved right from the beginning and aware of the opportunities the company will offer. Along with cow milk based infant formula, Feihe plans to manufacture goat milk based products, to process 75 million litres of goat milk annually, and bring 200 full time jobs to the region.
“ This is a fantastic opportunity for rural areas around Kingston,” Mayor Doyle said, following the announcement. But it was the 75 million litres of goat milk that got to him. “That works out to 225,000 litres of goat milk a day. Goats are pretty small animals. If they produce 2 litres a day you need 50,000 goats while at 4 litres its 25,000. There is a real opportunity for many people to get into the business, more importantly for young people. For goat farms you don’t need to buy a cost prohibitive milk quota. There would be equipment costs for sure but nothing like quota.”. Mayor Doyle noted that Kingston Mayor Paterson is anxious that the city and the county work together as a region “as we have in the past with economic development”. The delegation to China includes Mayor Bryan Paterson, the Frontenac County’s Allen, members of KEDCO, OMAFRA, Utilities Kingston, Queen's University and others where they will be reviewing the whole process and it requirements. Mayor Doyle said that the township will set up a public meeting with Allen following his return from China to hear about the requirements of the project. The islands are prime agricultural places close to the city, with a long history of milk production. He said “I am sure the other townships in the county will want to do the same. I see this as the best economic development opportunity that has come about in years. Its going to take many people many farms, and many goats to make it work. There are farms with big barns, lots of vacant land and perhaps opportunities for leasing,” he concluded.

3. Good News: Organic Waste Disposal to DeBruin Farms BIOGAS ORGANICS resumes at the WI Transfer site. Residents are urged to take advantage of the organic bins. Composting reduces the amount of waste to be trucked off the island.