From the Editor, June '22

June, and this Editor is a happy camper! Why? There are over 20 communities in the Thousand Islands, and each one has come alive. Cottages are opening, marinas are filling each slip and there are events going on everywhere.

I am not sure we can keep up with all of this summer's activities but stay tuned and be sure to check your local media to make sure you do not miss one art show, one boat show, one theater performance or important fundraiser.

Special recognition to Dr. Richard Withington

In May we learned that the Clayton Volunteer Fire Department paid special tribute to Dr. Richard Withington, better known to us as Doc Withington who has written 30 articles for TI Life since I began in December 2008. (His first article, Winter Islander, is an all-time favourite)  In February 2013, Kim Lunman, well-known writer, wrote a special introduction for this River friend. Her article "The Doctor is In" captures just some of Dr. W's ability to come to the recue of so many accident victims on the River.

Of course, we join in thanking The Clayton Fire Department for giving this recognition and more importantly we thank Doc Withington for always being at the right place at the right time.

A Lost Friend

Once again we learned that a favourite River Rat will not be returning. Dr. Clarence Arthur Pearson, from Cape Vincent and Iwo Eden Island, in the Lake Fleet, died in May at the age of 90.

I am one of the lucky ones who knew Art and spent many verandah visits with him and his Judy. You see I met them back in 1982 when I was asked by Parks Canada to write an inventory of historic sites that represented recreation. I pulled into islands and asked questions, visited libraries and archives, and I must admit writing that little book started by love of Thousand Islands history. The day I visited the Pearsons shared their island guest book with me.  One visitor from prohibition days wrote a quote, that I still think is absolutely perfect:  "When I have a better time, I will be in heaven." Yes Dr. Pearson, we will miss you."

A few of the events coming soon . . .

Canadian Half Moon Bay Services Resume After Two Years

"The tradition of worship in Half Moon Bay began in 1887. People came from neighbouring islands and from Gananoque to meet for a Vesper Service early on Sunday evening during July and August. Situated on Bostwick Island in the Admiralty Group, the place is a natural bay of carved rock, compliments of the retreating glaciers." See TI Life article, "Tallest Cathedral Ceiling . . . " written by Carolyn Pratt, May, 2009.  For more details see Half Moon Bay|Outdoor Cathedral|Gananoque|Ontario|Thousand Islands|

Some Clayton Happenings

"It's back! so much to see and do in Clayton this month. Food & Wine Festival, Seaway Splash, followed up by a visit from Official Theodore Tugboat and then the July 4 fireworks display" announced by Michael Folsom. Michael is a regular contributor for TI Life and always provides the best advice.

Chippewa Bay

Vintage Hydroplane & Car Show - Saturday July 16th 10am to 4pm.

This is a free, family friendly, event put on by the Chippewa Bay Maritime Museum, The Fishers Landing Racing Club and Antique Boat America. Its a chance for folks to come see and Vintage Race Boats plus Automobiles, announced by John Kunz. John is also a TI Life contributor.

And the Clayton Opera House

A busy schedule for the Clayton Opera House - they're also looking for volunteers this summer. Contact them if you wish to sign up to act as usher, help with backstage work, lend a hand with artist hospitality, assist with mailings, or to be an Opera House greeter.

Thousand Islands Playhouse

And congratulations to the Thousand Islands Playhouse - 40th Season. (Mind you this editor was around for the first season and seeing the number 40th is a bit daunting.)  This summer they are back in full force and we encourage you to visit often. There are now brand new docks ready to welcome islanders as well.

Conclusion

We have 11 articles this issue with two new authors: Chris Piering presents a nature article and Terra Bach presents a profile of an outdoorsman and philanthropist whose gift to the Thousand Islands Land trust will be appreciated by all.

Please remember to leave comments on articles or send them to me to post (there is a little glitch using some web browsers.)

Header Photograph

David Ivey shared his photograph of resting turtles on a wetland log. This month we feature an article about our region's turtles and how important it is to "brake for turtles." The Thousand Islands Association is helping to bring recognition to this important issue as well.

By Susan W. Smith, Editor, info@thousandislandslife.com

And the TI Life Team:

Elspeth Naismith, "Real Editor"; Georgia Barker, Dane Zabriski, and Rick Taylor are our proofreaders. Jennifer Caddick has taken over our Social Media; Beth Lavos is posting books; Marie-Anne Erki is our illustrator; and last but not least is Mike Cox, our IT Magician. Once again, thanks to all! ( P.S) Always room for more team members, so don't be shy.

Posted in: Volume 17, Issue 6, June 2022, From the editor, People, Places