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Articles by 'Susan W. Smith'

TI Life Starts 2019!

TI Life Starts 2019!

This month I can guarantee you will learn more than you expected in TI Life. 1889 Hop! Seaway Review! Tour Boat History! Reinman's Newsstand! Westminster Park! Crab Dib! Santa Comes, Hoar Frost, Asian Carp, Frozen River, Stubborn Sudoku... and more! Check them out first right here in this article.
by: Susan W. Smith
December ‘18 Happenings

December ‘18 Happenings

2018 is drawing to a close  - 129 Articles later! When I started to count the work of so many volunteer authors &nd...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings November 2018

TI Life Happenings November 2018

Happy Thanksgiving to our US Islanders! This is a time of year when family and friends enjoy a harvest dinner and of course, Football. November in the Thousand Islands is no different than in other communities – only quieter. Most cottages are now closed and the weather alerts include “freezing rain, and/or Snow flurries!”

This article introduces Jessica Phinney and Nicole Hartshorn. We have two videos showing the weather and we pay tribute to Dave Smith, Grindstone Island. and announces that Santa Claus is coming to town. .
by: Susan W. Smith
Closing-Up Is Hard To Do…

Closing-Up Is Hard To Do…

One day last week it was in the high 60s, (21C) and that night it went down to 37F (4C)… Time to close-up and head home! For those of you who live here year-round, you can look forward to no 5:00 p.m. traffic jams, and lots of evenings by the fireplace.

We asked for photographs showing what closing-up means to you… Carl Leuck took his last swim... Trish Tague says, "Don't forget the Yaks." Steve Wilcox says it is time to go "when ya start seeing the cribs." and lots more...

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in September

TI Life Happenings in September

They say we own the River starting in September and I think that is true! Not many sailboats anchored in the bays and little boat traffic. This coincides with back to school, back to the office and meetings!

Check out our Happenings... a dock concert, 1000 Islands Poker Run, working barges and NOAA Water Level charts!
by: Susan W. Smith
Happenings in August: News and Updates

Happenings in August: News and Updates

The River is hardly slowing down, and with the wonderful weather, there seem to be more boats...

News: Coal Shoal Lighthouse burning; Piper the Dock Dog update; Visit the Edible Garden update... Many interesting articles this month designed for dock or cockpit reading... Please leave comments and questions!
by: Susan W. Smith
News and Happenings in July

News and Happenings in July

"There is an App for That… U.S. Customs and Border Protection in the United States launched a new App for those checking in to the U.S. (Both U.S. Citizens and Visitors); The Fireworks Continue - Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands has let off steam trying to approve the new Official Plan. Learn all about it…; Diving? Then Brockville’s Centeen Park is the place to visit this summer. There are now 41 sunken sculptures placed in the St. Lawrence River, and finally --- Church in a Boat? Yes, visit Half Moon Bay…
by: Susan W. Smith
News and Happenings in June 2018

News and Happenings in June 2018

Summer 2018: Photographs; Louise Ann Ford (1954-2018); SLC Arts News; TILTI Official Plan Approval Postponed; Ship runs aground; River Muse; Stone & South Condos... Yes, lots of news this month. And the weather is not even on my mind...

Rather than weather - family and friends, boats and water sports, fish and even bird watching are top of mind. Let’s all enjoy the start of Summer 2018!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Happenings in May 2018

TI Happenings in May 2018

Talk about wind… Friday, May 4th will be one we will not forget… The winds were predicted, but nobody expected the forecast to prove true. The River rose almost to last year's high mark over a couple of hours and receded just as fast and half of Clayton’s Guardino Elementary School’s roof blew to the ground.
But Summer is coming and so are the boats...check out this article for photographs and news items.
by: Susan W. Smith
Happenings in April 2018

Happenings in April 2018

We were fortunate to spend Easter weekend on our island. The dock was free of ice, as was our front bay. The back bay still looked frozen solid. Saturday was cold, or crisp, and that night we received the “Wind Alerts” for both Kingston and Clayton. By morning, the clear dock was iced in. Large blocks as well as smaller cubes. (One of us asked where the Scotch was kept.)

Click here to see spring videos, tributes and upcoming events you will not want to miss.
by: Susan W. Smith
Happenings in March ‘18

Happenings in March ‘18

Yes, Summer 2018 is about to start! Read why Ti Life is right behind as the articles this month are all appropriate ... We pay tribute to Rex Ennis, author, historian and Grindstone Islander...
Steve Sturtz shares his Polar Bear Dip and Redwood's Fishing Derby photographs...And we present a terrific video!
by: Susan W. Smith
Happening in February ‘18

Happening in February ‘18

This month I am a snowbird in Florida and I now I understand why other snowbirds thank me for TI Life in mid-winter! Sta...
by: Susan W. Smith
Happenings in January 2018

Happenings in January 2018

Happy New Year... Want to see winter in the Thousand Islands?

Meet our new contributors, view over a dozen winter photographs, watch Elaine Tack's "Juno's" Video, pay tribute to Jeane Fuller ... be sure to read these Happening in January 2018
by: Susan W. Smith
What is Happening, Dec. ‘17

What is Happening, Dec. ‘17

The warnings have started with several Clayton Storm Alerts already appearing.

This is a festive month as family and friends make their way down our main streets looking for the perfect gift. Our only suggestion is to stay warm, take time to rest and of course, enjoy our 2017 December issue.

December is a wonderful month to publish TI Life as it is filled with articles that I am sure you will enjoy.
by: Susan W. Smith
Interesting Happenings Nov. ‘17

Interesting Happenings Nov. ‘17

A dozen articles this month - once again our authors and photographers are able to "Put a Thousand Islands in our Life." Ian Coristine announces the 6th Annual Photo Contest, Kara Dunn gives us cold water safety tips...please follow them.

This article also reviews high water discussions keeps the ferry service memories alive as well as memories of a summer ride in a 33' Gar Wood....
by: Susan W. Smith
Interesting TI Life Happenings in October,

Interesting TI Life Happenings in October,

Meet this month's new contributors: Maggie Wheeler, John Scott Cowan, Nick Wolochatiuk, and Wayne Strauss.
We pay tribute to three prominent Islanders on both sides of the River: Robert Matthews, Mark Russell, and Mark Hummel. And we present an assortment of October photographs. Yes, lots of Interesting TI Life Happenings this month.
by: Susan W. Smith
Interesting Happenings in September

Interesting Happenings in September


Hurricanes have brought terrible hardship to our friends, and snowbirds may be affected with destruction or the constant worry about friends and family. Words mean little at a time like this, so we wish that you and yours are safe and that you can carry on with your winter plans.

See here: Tributes to Annie Gefell, Andrée Robitaille Wood; info on Mike Holmes; fire in Abay; and Gananoque's Bruce Davis plus photographs.

by: Susan W. Smith
Interesting TI Life in August ‘17

Interesting TI Life in August ‘17

Yes, August is an interesting month! Although much better, we are still struggling with high water. Make-shift docks are now in place making life on Jet Skis, Water Skis and Paddle Boards back to normal.

In this article, we ask for help identifying a boat now living in Alberta, Canada. We also believe we found a ghost at Boldt Castle...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in July ‘17

TI Life Happenings in July ‘17

I received an email after the June issue requesting some articles to cheer us up, the lady was tired of all the bad news on water levels. We think we have hit the mark!

However, there is an editor’s rant - I try not to get opinionated about River life, but this year I keep hearing talk related to issues. Perhaps you have some solutions...
by: Susan W. Smith
From the Editor

From the Editor

This July 2nd, 2017, Mini Edition of TI Life pays tribute to the 50th Anniversary of the Thousand Islands Arts Center ~ ...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in June ‘17

TI Life Happenings in June ‘17

Everyday question: “Is the water still high?” Same Answer today as yesterday: “ Yes, has not moved an inch.” I am sorry that so many are being affected not only by inconvenience but through accidents with broken legs, cracked ribs, and scary dips into the cold St. Lawrence River...

Good news: Gord Brown gets two important pieces of legislation introduced- The Canadian Boating bill has passed and he would like to have rules regarding flares changed.

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in May ‘17

TI Life Happenings in May ‘17

It is easy to find headlines every day describing the problems of high water on the St. Lawrence River. But in addition to the loss of property and damage to docks and boathouses, is the loss of income for our Island economy.

Boldt Castle has a late opening; tour boats are reducing excursions, and most gas docks are closed until further notice. There is also a grave concern for the next two weeks, as there will be more erosion with wind and waves. Please stay safe – turn off the dock and boathouse power and watch for floating debris.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in April ‘17

TI Life Happenings in April ‘17

Our islands should be covered in May flowers, as everyone has remarked about April’s showers!  Hardly a day went by with...
by: Susan W. Smith
What’s Happening in TI Life, March 2017

What’s Happening in TI Life, March 2017

Spring was in the air in February, but March not so much! TI Life Happenings include introductions to Martha Stroud and Joel Charles.
We pay tribute to Gananoque's Mike MacDonald; give updates on the TI Playhouse docks and the Guzzle at TI Park. Doug Tulloch shares his two full moon shots and we have a short video breaking ice.
by: Susan W. Smith
What’s Happening in TI Life, February 2017

What’s Happening in TI Life, February 2017

What an unusual February. Usually, we have a frozen River. This year we have open water, wind, freezing rain and sunshine. and this week SNOW. All part of Winter 2017 in the Thousand Islands.
This month's articles are just as unusual. Check here for videos and photographs and hopefully good news about the border for fishermen.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings… January 2017

TI Life Happenings… January 2017

Yes, a whole new year… and I am still at it! If you had asked me a week ago, I would have told you all was well and I had not a care in the world. But this week my computer crashed! Seems everyone has gone through this and the first question is always… “Did you back it up?” Thankfully I had...

Check out new Happenings in January including a tribute to Doug Tulloch and his Santa Festival, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the watching the skies.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in November 2016

TI Life Happenings in November 2016

The November issue announces our 5th Annual Photo Contest, pays tribute to some outstanding islanders and introduces four new authors: Paul Hetzler, Walter Fraser, Andrée Robitaille Wood and James Montanus. Learn about Ticks, Clouds, Ghosts, Music, Rock Climbing, Maritime Museum, Photography and of course Sudoku.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in October 2016

TI Life Happenings in October 2016

Meet Anne Mellon, Clayton's Citizen of the Year; meet Shaggy, a detector dog at the Thousand Islands Port of Entry on Hill Island who discovered 98.8 Kilograms of suspected cocaine and meet the winners of Clayton's Sunflower Contest...plus over a dozen new photographs celebrating Fall 2016.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings September 2016

TI Life Happenings September 2016

TI Life in September: check out new River videos and photographs, meet our new contributors and learn the back stories behind the articles - yes, Summer 2016 is over - and what a summer it was. Now we are gearing up for the Fall and there will be lots to see and do on both sides of the River!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in July 2016

TI Life Happenings in July 2016

Where do you find all those articles? A good question, but easy to answer. I think it is amazing… each article comes with a back story.
Lynn and Gary McElfresh wanted to know Where Do Big Old Boats Go to Die? and research gave them some interesting alternatives! Captain Brian Johnson wants some help to find the 1975’s Peanut Gang. Do you recognize any of the old gang?
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in June 2016

TI Life Happenings in June 2016

The Summer 2016 begins officially next week and all of the museums, attractions and marinas are ready to welcome everyone back to the River. What better way to start the summer than with TI Life.
If you lived anywhere near Gananoque on Saturday, June 4th, you would have heard the engines… loud and clear. But suffice to say the excitement was as high as the committee, chaired by Chris McCarney, hoped – and the event was a resounding success!
Chris M. Piering often shares his beautiful photographs on
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in May 2016

TI Life Happenings in May 2016

May was a busy month for the TI Life team; on May 7th, we published a Special Edition to celebrate the opening of Brockv...
by: Susan W. Smith
From the Editor

From the Editor

My personal story of the Aquatarium... Ian Coristine wrote a tribute note to Simon Fuller on March 1st, the day he visited the Aquatarium. He thanked Simon for his concept and vision...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in ‘April 2016

TI Life Happenings in ‘April 2016

April showers this year are snow pellets. However, many of us have already opened the cottage and started summer ‘16 with the heat on.
What is happening: Meet our new contributors: Dan Mack, Pete M. Anderson, Lee Willbanks and 10-year-old Janevra Pier - We pay tribute to Sandy Beach Resort’s Gilbert Plaw - We ask if there is a thief on the River? - We present the Empire State Tourism Office video by Horizon Aerials. and more. . .
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in March ‘16

TI Life Happenings in March ‘16

News from TI Life - Tributes to Bob Clark, Linda Yenawine and Frank Kinsella; three who will be long remembered on the River. Did you see the Nazi submarine story? Meet our new contributors and experience winter in the Islands through photographs (bazillion shells on Potters Beach!)
by: Susan W. Smith
2016 Happenings in February

2016 Happenings in February

One of our proofreaders wrote, “HOW do you do it? Each issue is better than the last!!” I wish I could take credit, but I have to say our authors certainly deserve our thanks. Here we are with our mid-winter edition – enjoy this one beside a fireplace, on either side of the River, at a coffee shop near where you work, or if you are lucky, like I am, on a beach!

Open then article and meet our new contributors, see a remarkable historical film and enjoy our February photoraphs.
by: Susan W. Smith
2016 January TI Life Happenings

2016 January TI Life Happenings

A new year of TI Life adventures. Blizzards...freezing temperatures…Lake-effect whiteouts and the occasional thaw – represent the first month of the year. No time like the present to enjoy 10 new articles – Enjoy!

Start with two great videos by the McLellan Group and Feather in Flight as well as memorial tributes to Frank Cavallario and Grindstone's Aminta Marks.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings, December 2015

TI Life Happenings, December 2015

Season’s Greetings from our TI Life Team… Lots of news this month: Meet the authors… Citizens of the Year…GAM on Yachting… WPBS Production, 52 Minutes of Islands… and photographs by James Miller, Dennis McCarthy, Joe Meirose, Patrick Simpson, Bob Gates, Ian Coristine and Autumn Kirker.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in November ‘15

TI Life Happenings in November ‘15

As we go to press we are learning more about the incredible violence that was struck in Paris on Friday, November 13th. Like so many around the world I find it difficult to express our sense of outrage and sorrow – suffice to say our thoughts are with our Parisian friends.
TI Life Happenings in November include a tribute to the late Mary Dial. We also present two beautiful videos produced by Jeffry Weldon and we share many beautiful photographs.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in October 2015

TI Life Happenings in October 2015

Each summer I try not to blink in mid-July, for when I do it’s suddenly October.  And, October means Canadian...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings September 2015

TI Life Happenings September 2015

End of the Summer – Heat, rain, cold… but somehow these River days can be the best. Lots to report this month... TIERS Campaign; Danger Floating; Tad Clark's Excursion; Story telling on Murray Isle and, yes, fishing. We top it all off with a special September Video.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in August 2015

TI Life Happenings in August 2015

Updates on the future TI Park building...To call or not to call? That is the question when it comes to border issues... Meet new authors: Paul Coté (Gananoque), Joe & Libby Burkle, (Washington State), Dan LeKander, (Wellesley Island) and Matthew Berry, (14 yrs old and from Kingston). Also meet my Australian friend, Alan Smith and his kangaroo. Top it off with photos of summer happenings in the 1000 Islands...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in July 2015…

TI Life in July 2015…

Lots to report in this article... Bios for six new contributors - Trish Buote, Mary Politis, Paul Holland, Blu Mackintosh, Camille Crandall and Robert Neulieb. Parks Canada receives $7.7 Million! and what to do on Saturday's in July!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life’s Top 6 for June ‘15

TI Life’s Top 6 for June ‘15

1) Reporting requirements for private boaters. 2) Bobbie Trimble will be missed. 3) Thomas K. Hunt's new book of poetry. 4) Facebook's new Thousand Islands River Views. 5) Never too late for comments! and 6) topped off with a slide show by Chirs Piering. Yes, Summer 2015 is here! Do share TI Life with family and friends.
by: Susan W. Smith
Top 5 TI Life Happenings in May ‘15

Top 5 TI Life Happenings in May ‘15

What a difference a month makes – Mid May - Not swimming yet, but windows open... Top Five Happenings: TI Park Rebuild; 1000 Islands Tower 50th; Water Levels; Remember the Canadian Postman? Bad News for TI Life. And meet our new contributors Joan Delaney, Brian Fay & Chris Murray, Robert Daly and Barry Keefe.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings April ‘15

TI Life Happenings April ‘15

Ice breakers have gone through, the rain and wind have done their part - so yes - we will be back on the River very soon. This article provides news of Gan's Contractor's Dock; Cape Vincent's Snow Sculptures and we share a video and photographs... Enjoy!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in March ‘15

TI Life Happenings in March ‘15

Spring is in the air… Truly… This editor spent the winter in the sunny south – so I join our readers in thanking those who stayed home to share news and photographs! You can see them here... Also we present a video of Singer Castle in the winter... and ideas for a night out in the spring in the Thousand Islands.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Important Happenings, Feb ‘15

TI Life Important Happenings, Feb ‘15

Midwinter – reports of too much snow,  record breaking low temperatures and Interstate pile-ups.  Howeve...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings, January 2015

TI Life Happenings, January 2015

Meet our January contributors... Watch a video of Roaring Ice... Pay tribute to special Islanders...and visit 1000 Islands communities in winter photographs.. All here in Happenings, January 2015.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings December ‘14

TI Life Happenings December ‘14

Each year's December issue is my favorite. Thanks to Ian Coristine our TI Life’s 3rd Annual Photo Contest winners were chosen from over 160 entries.Richard (Dick) Withington tells us about Nylons Hanging in the Shower...Lynn gives us a TEST and there is lots more!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in November

TI Life Happenings in November

November 11th allows us to pause for Remembrance Day in Canada and Veterans Day in the US.  Then many of us pause again ...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in October

TI Life Happenings in October

Canadian Thanksgiving and Columbus Day Weekend truly signals the end of Summer, 2014.  Mother Nature was kind with ...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in September

TI Life Happenings in September

What a summer… high water, some picture perfect days… family and friends!  Now we head into the fall ...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in August

TI Life Happenings in August

When we published this August issue, we just learned of the fire on August 14th, on Wellesley Island at the corner of St. Lawrence Avenue and Rainbow Street east, home of the Guzzle. Our thoughts are with all those whose summer-lives are touched by this tragic event. Luckily there were no injuries, however the Park lost its Fire Station and equipment. I find the footage difficult to watch, but it is important...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in July ‘14

TI Life Happenings in July ‘14

Check out our July Happenings… Independence fireworks, beautiful photographs and our US Donate Button is now working! Also take advice from a pro - "Click on articles that may not seem as interesting - you will be surprised."
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in June ‘14

TI Life Happenings in June ‘14

Check out Island Happenings here. Want to see the islands from above? Check out Flyboarding, Helicopters or Tower views… A rant about parking… Meet our new contributors and more… Yes, June has arrived - the weather is beautiful, water levels are perfect and everyone is returning to the River all equal Summer 2014.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings May ‘14

TI Life Happenings May ‘14

Click here to see an array of Spring photographs… meet five new contributors... The new book "Tall Ships of the Thousand Islands" and notice for the 15th Biennial Quilt Show; plus news about Cross Island Farm, a new twitter to follow @SeawayNNY and a new Point Vivian website…
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings April ‘14

TI Life Happenings April ‘14

Click here to see how the icebreaker makes its way through the Islands, learn about a new kickstarter program, and see photographs of spring. This winter we had to wait several weeks to find open water, in fact the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway was delayed and there are still inches of ice in bays and small channels in the river.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings for March

TI Life Happenings for March

Open this article to see Winter 2014… Also we link to a Romantic video where a young man asks a young women to take the plunge… jump in the freezing water and get married.. She accepted both.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings in February ‘14

TI Life Happenings in February ‘14

Open this article to go for a walk on black ice with Kenny Brabant or see “1000 Reasons to do Business in Gananoque”. Get ready to take your snowmobile on a popular winter trail and think what it is like to be a farmer on Wellesley Island. Plus a dozen photographs…
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life Happenings 01/14

TI Life Happenings 01/14

While not as devastating as the Ice Storm 1998, Ice Storm December 2013, caused massive power outages across the North Country and most of Southern and Eastern Ontario. Coming on December 22 and 23rd, so close to Christmas added extra hardship as roads were closed and people were asked to remain in their homes.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life for the Holidays

TI Life for the Holidays

Thanks for putting a Thousand Islands in your life in 2013 and we wish you and your family a happy and joyous 2014. The...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in November 2013

TI Life in November 2013

Last year at this time we were wishing those hit by the hurricane Sandy a speedy and safe recovery, this month we know t...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in October ‘13

TI Life in October ‘13

For many, Canadian Thanksgiving and the US Columbus Day weekend signal an end to summer. For those still on the River, please beware of low water, frequent storms, and the promise of frost. This TI Life in October article brings you beautiful Fall photographs, a RiverQuest update, exciting videos and introduces our new contributors.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in Sept ‘13 - Five years and counting

TI Life in Sept ‘13 - Five years and counting

4,913 subscribers, 170+ authors, 700+ articles. 5000+ photographs and a very happy editor. This is my 60th issue.
Created in 2006 by the late Paul Malo, “TI Life” is certainly something for which our team can be proud.

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in August with an awesome video

TI Life in August with an awesome video

Tad Clark’s "Boat Shoes" made me laugh; He is right, we all need them, have them and keep them. Deane Parkhurst made me realize you can travel a long way from the River but memories will bring you back -.But “TI Life in August” will be remembered for the Awesome Video created for 1000 Islands RiverQuest by Doug McLellan (Lake Fleet’s Wood Isle) - full screen, sound up and enjoy!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in July

TI Life in July

I call this issue TI Lite in July…  Thinking of sitting at a computer, when we really want to be out on the River. ...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in June 2013

TI Life in June 2013

June is here – more water in the River - they say it will be a hot summer (Ya, sure…) and the June issue is filled to the brim with history and happenings.
Click here to see three videos: Love your Park Day; Clayton Diving Club and “Old River Stories" with Alan Newell and Everett Smith...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in May 2013

TI Life in May 2013

Freshwater Jellyfish in the Thousand Islands?... “Border fee for Canadians banned by U.S. Senators…” Yes, lots of news in this “TI Life in May 2013.” Plus dozens of photographs representing Spring 2013 - the moon, sunsets, even a dinner party for 30! New contributors and your favorites including Lynn McElfresh and Brian Johnson.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in April ‘13

TI Life in April ‘13

Lots of news … First, take a stand-up Jet-Ski ride over ice and water… Our Kim Lunman writes for "BoatUSA" and I introduce our April contributors. The Canadian Park Islands have a new name and we have an update on water levels. We thank those who leave comments for they often lead to new stories about the 1000 Islands…
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in March ‘13

TI Life in March ‘13

Do you want wind turbines near your island home? Do you worry about water levels? This article provides some thoughts. We also introduce new contributors and share photographs of those places you like the most! It is our largest issue to date.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in February 2013

TI Life in February 2013

This month’s issue is special. When Hunter Grimes sent his "An essay which is not all about hunting and guns…" I realized right away this was a MUST READ. I got just as enthused when Bill Munro agreed to provide "Nature/Outdoor Photography… We pay tribute to the late Myrna Clark and William (Bill) Browning – and photographers give us pictures
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in January ‘13

TI Life in January ‘13

This is one of our most ambitious issues… 13 articles… over 130 photographs, special videos including one created on YouTube for TI Life, Seaway 2012, history, an excursion, a book review… and the launch of RiverQuest...Then, ever wonder what was here before? We introduce new Facebook pages featuring vintage photographs … and we show snowbirds how winter 2013 has started..
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in December 2012

TI Life in December 2012

Thanks for putting a thousand islands in your life in 2012 and we wish you and your family a happy and joyous 2013. The...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in November 2012

TI Life in November 2012

As we launch there are still thousands in NJ, CT, NY, and NYC, suffering from the loss of family, power, homes, and livelihoods - we extend our heartfelt thoughts..... Everyone deserves a “last hit of Summer” so thanks to Great Lake Swimmers give us a new music video… Watch it now!
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in October 2012

TI Life in October 2012

We pay tribute to Chef Gerry and Diane Brinkman, who will not be returning to operate the Wellesley Hotel in 2013.Islanders, mainland residents and visiting mariners are saddened to hear this news…We celebrate the MarCom Award given to “One in a Thousand” and we have pictures of the low water…
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in September 2012

TI Life in September 2012

Yes, that is a truck you see...It was caught on camera by Martin Zonnenberg as the Grindstone Island Barge made its way across the River... We introduce a new book by Chris Brock and poetry by Fred Schmidt... Lots more in this month's issue, enjoy.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in August 2012

TI Life in August 2012

From the Editor: Do you remember the weather in summer 2011? Well, 2012 has to date, been hotter, sunnier and dryer. So, we are cheering for some(more) rain, particularly for our farming communities. We will soon find out how serious the drought has been for the area, but it has made family reunions, weddings and fundraising events a great success...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in July 2012

TI Life in July 2012

Nothing screams summer like hot weather, lazy days, motor boats, swimming, fishing, and ice cream! Summer is here! This article will introduce our new contributors, introduce the Plein Air Painters and even provides a job opportunity... and as the summer progresses, we suggest you will take along your camera, smart phone or tablet and take photographs to share with TI Life.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in June, 2012

TI Life in June, 2012

This article is both a celebration of the start of summer 2012 and a rant about copyright law. One of our authors discovered that a new, Thousand Islands history book has photographs and text that she had originally written for our e-zine.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in May 2012

TI Life in May 2012

Did you see the super moon… you can imagine what it looked like rising and setting over the Thousand Islands. Magnificent. This month we present a miracle in photographs, professional golfing news, warn about ticks, question water levels and more…
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life May 1st - Special edition, "One in a Thousand"

TI Life May 1st - Special edition, "One in a Thousand"

When I learned that Ian Coristine was writing a new book I got excited. As perhaps one of his most devoted fans (his contributions to Thousand Islands Life are immeasurable), I decided...
by: Susan W. Smith
Thousand Islands Life in March

Thousand Islands Life in March

A lot to report this month. I discovered that one of the leading Crime Writers Festivals takes place on Wolfe Island. We present more than a dozen winter photographs and a sneak preview to Ian Coristine's "One in a Thousand". One of the biggest news stories is the announcement of the largest real estate transaction in the Thousand Islands with the sale of Eagle Point properties.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in February, 2012

TI Life in February, 2012

It’s mid-winter but it does not feel like it as there is little snow, even in the North Country. In this article we have some lovely images from photographers: Lillian and Paul Cooledge, Dennis McCarthy, Fred Guild, and Debbie Hirshey. We also introduce a new page, "Excursions", with a "Ride up the Rideau" by Tad Clark and invite readers to join our twitter @TILife.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in January 2012

TI Life in January 2012

Happy New Year! This article introduces a muskie hunter, provides a link to tracking a bald eagle named Hal, looks back on Buoy Bobbing and provides many ways to enjoy winter in the North Country. We thank Ian Coristine for his new “headers” and Lillian and Paul Cooledge for sharing their photographs. And finally, the River is quiet which gives us time to read about it
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life’s Gifts in December

TI Life’s Gifts in December

As a gift in December we present History, Poetry, Diving Escapades and 22 Photographs by Thousand Islands photographers. We also pay tribute to Don Ross, new "Keeper of the Islands" and to the late John King and Captain Richard (F.E.) Fawcett. Enjoy this issue and please forward it to a friend.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in October 2011

TI Life in October 2011

We have just completed our Canadian Thanksgiving. We remember cooking our turkey on a cold icy morning, or a windy and blustery day, but this past weekend was just like summer 2011 – warm, sunny and far too nice to be putting on shutters or closing down the water system!

I want to take this opportunity, on behalf of our fellow islanders, our cruising sailors, and the nearby mainlanders, to thank all the marina operators, local business ...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in September 2011

TI Life in September 2011

September signals the end of Summer … We introduce music by Peg Dolan in a Dennis McCarthy YouTube video; new contributors and two new books. We also report sad news of the deaths of Michael Mead from Grindstone Island and Peter Hendley from Grenell Island. . .
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in August ‘11

TI Life in August ‘11

Q&A:  (1) How many of you sat on your deck (cottage/boat/cockpit) and watched the world go by? Answer: Everyone...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in July

TI Life in July

Almost everyone has heard about the border problems.  Concerned citizens on both sides of the River have sent lette...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in June ‘11

TI Life in June ‘11

TI Life in June gives this editor the opportunity to introduce this month’s articles and provide River news - which includes photographs of the Cornwall Brothers Store Museum which lost its roof in the June 8th storm. There is much more... a poem, "Otter's Claim" by Joan A Kimball and a very special letter to the editor… and MikeCox,our volunteer web magician, added a slide show feature to the site this month.
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in May 2011

TI Life in May 2011

Thousand Islands Life Magazine presents 12 articles this month…  something for everyone!  Not only are the art...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in March 2011

TI Life in March 2011

There is something special about March. The luck of the Irish on St. Patrick’s Day, Daylight Savings Time, and yes, the days are getting longer! If you, like many others, have been trying to convey to friends and family elsewhere just how exceptional the Thousand Islands really are, now have two new ways to do it.
by: Susan W. Smith
Thousand Islands Life in January 2011

Thousand Islands Life in January 2011

In December, we received Dan Denney’s "Through the Ice - a Tale of Survival". Not only does he explain how dangerous it can be to drive on river and/or lake ice, he gives us techniques for survival which he had to learn the hard way! January's issue also presents history, photographs and more...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life’s Summer’s End, September

TI Life’s Summer’s End, September

Yes summer is almost over, but what a great one we have had! Throughout the summer we collected photographs from our readers both on "TI Life" and from our Facebook site, and we share some here. We also congratulate Ian Coristine for winning a 2010 Benny Award for his book, "The very best of Ian Coristine's 1000 Islands"...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life “Lite”

TI Life “Lite”

July is vacation time and hopefully you are not sitting at your computer but instead enjoying these truly hot, hazy, crazy days of summer. For that reason in July we publish TI Life ‘Lite'. And to help you enjoy the summer, do check this article as we share a new slide show of the Thousand Islands, created by Ian Coristine with the music of Great Lake Swimmers...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in June 2010

TI Life in June 2010

What a month! Wonderful weather, still going from hot to cold, but some rain and the water level is slightly higher. In addition to introducing our stories, we present links to two great videos. Our Readers Exchange allows us to answer a number of inquiries... This month we also present several follow-up articles. The first is a result of interesting comments about last month’s article by Kim Lunman

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in June

TI Life in June

On June 6th subscriber number 3,000 joined TI Life! This month we introduce Capt. Brian Johnson, Robert S. Miner and William Worden and welcome back Phil Chadwick, Kim Lunman, Michael Whittaker, James Rapport and Ian Coristine.

by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in May

TI Life in May

Trilliums and Beavers are a sure sign of spring. Sagastaweka Island, has thousands of trilliums to welcome us back to the River and at least one industrious beaver. The first I adore, the latter not so much! Actually there are now other worries for islanders to consider and the list is long...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in March

TI Life in March

TI Life has a new "Readers' Exchange" where we welcome your short stories of seven-hundred words, or less. Our first sto...
by: Susan W. Smith
A New Look? Put a Thousand Islands in Your Life!

A New Look? Put a Thousand Islands in Your Life!

What’s happening? The December issue of our magazine comes to you with a new look!
by: Susan W. Smith
More Than a Salad Dressing and Washington Island

More Than a Salad Dressing and Washington Island

Imagine asking the US residents on Washington Island, in Clayton, NY, to change the island’s name back to its original: ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Frank Shattuck, Tailor and More

Frank Shattuck, Tailor and More

It starts with a picture on Facebook’s Thousand Islands River Rats Now and Then page, back a couple of months ago....
by: Susan W. Smith
Brenda Clarke, Artist

Brenda Clarke, Artist

Many have a Bucket List, but artist Brenda Clarke found someone else’s Bucket List that has taken her on a wonderf...
by: Susan W. Smith
Canada 150 Rink Comes to Gananoque!

Canada 150 Rink Comes to Gananoque!

If you google “Hockey and culture” in Canada you will find, ”Ice Hockey: A symbol of Canada, a nationa...
by: Susan W. Smith
An Interview with Author Susan G Mathis

An Interview with Author Susan G Mathis

In late July, I met Susan G. Mathis at a Writer’s Day held at the Cornwall Bros. Museum in Alexandria Bay. In June...
by: Susan W. Smith
River Sadness

River Sadness

Families on both sides of the border express their sincere sadness upon hearing about a freak accident that took the lif...
by: Susan W. Smith
Wavve Boating… Yes, an App for That…

Wavve Boating… Yes, an App for That…

  “The App for Recreational Boaters…Navigate Confidently…Find your Friends… Explore n...
by: Susan W. Smith
Accessibility Ramp at Joel Stone Park

Accessibility Ramp at Joel Stone Park

“No problems – Only solutions,” is the motto that  Gananoque Lions Club president, Susan Tunnicli...
by: Susan W. Smith
Reveille Island, proud history

Reveille Island, proud history

The late Paul Malo, who was an emeritus professor of architecture a Syracuse University, created Thousandislandslife.com...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Bay… Summer events

The Bay… Summer events

We received the list of summer events planned for The Bay, from the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce. So mark the c...
by: Susan W. Smith
Book Review: Jewels and Ghouls (A 1000 Islands Novel Book 2)

Book Review: Jewels and Ghouls (A 1000 Islands Novel Book 2)

Steve Stone and Jill Matson swing into action again in this contemporary thriller and historical mystery...
by: Susan W. Smith
RoarLoud.NET Visits the Thousand Islands

RoarLoud.NET Visits the Thousand Islands

“Hey Susie, have you seen this?” asked Bill, “No! Then look, and tell me Where and Why?” The ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Preserving the Future

Preserving the Future

“We would not have those magnificent wooden boats, without having those unique architectural heritage island homes...
by: Susan W. Smith
Learning Meditation

Learning Meditation

I was intrigued when I received Kristen Taylor’s press release: Introducing Wellspring Meditation Meditation...
by: Susan W. Smith
Saying Goodbye and Thanks to Bob Matthews

Saying Goodbye and Thanks to Bob Matthews

How do we start to thank Robert L. Matthews (Bob) for the 25 articles he wrote for TI Life? Robert died on October 1, 20...
by: Susan W. Smith
Rex Ennis, the Manton Family and a Small World

Rex Ennis, the Manton Family and a Small World

This article is written with three purposes in mind: Pay tribute to Rexford Manton Ennis, from Grindstone Island, ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Capturing the River in No Small Way

Capturing the River in No Small Way

Edith Lunt Small captured our River - like no other - on canvas, paper and wood. Edith, known as Edie to her friends, wa...
by: Susan W. Smith
Sherry’s Walking Heritage Tours

Sherry’s Walking Heritage Tours

I love learning about the history of the Thousand Islands and its many communities. And I am not alone.  At the end...
by: Susan W. Smith
Sharon Ammen’s “May Irwin” is a 10+

Sharon Ammen’s “May Irwin” is a 10+

I have a tough time finding books about the Thousand Islands that I do not like, so rating them from 1-10 is difficult. ...
by: Susan W. Smith
"Rusticate" with Kris Pinkney

"Rusticate" with Kris Pinkney

“Tom & I have been vacationing on the River since 1998, with our four children & their friends.” sta...
by: Susan W. Smith
BBC Visits Half Moon Bay, August 9, 2017

BBC Visits Half Moon Bay, August 9, 2017

Have you visited the Tallest Cathedral Ceiling?  We bill the tiny Half Moon Bay, carved out of the granite during t...
by: Susan W. Smith
How it all began…

How it all began…

It all began at the Thousand Islands Museum, then located in what is today the Clayton Opera House.  Yes, three of ...
by: Susan W. Smith
High Water Updates

High Water Updates

Throughout the month of June, updates on water levels are top of mind. As we publish the June issue of TI Life, we recei...
by: Susan W. Smith
1000 Islands Charity Poker Run Comes to Town

1000 Islands Charity Poker Run Comes to Town

What do you get when you put a determined individual, who wants to make a difference together with some owners of the bi...
by: Susan W. Smith
Wooden Boats of the St. Lawrence River, a Review

Wooden Boats of the St. Lawrence River, a Review

Buy it, read it, and keep it on the bookshelf!  My review in a nutshell – great book. However, there is a story behind ...
by: Susan W. Smith
8th Annual KeithFest

8th Annual KeithFest

The Questions are thought- provoking for those Jefferson County young people between the ages of 5 – 25 who apply for th...
by: Susan W. Smith
Pam Warren McKinnon, C.S.P.W.C, Artist

Pam Warren McKinnon, C.S.P.W.C, Artist

Pam McKinnon has every right to paint what she likes on or beside the St. Lawrence River. You see she is a genuine River...
by: Susan W. Smith
Did You Know? (1000 Islands Facts)

Did You Know? (1000 Islands Facts)

Editor’s Note:  Robert Matthew, from Fishers Landing, NY, suggested we create a Did You Know? section, for items too sho...
by: Susan W. Smith
Charlie Cliffe, We Thank You.

Charlie Cliffe, We Thank You.

Charlie Cliffe died at his home in Lansdowne, ON, on Friday, February 10th, 2017 at the age of 86. Certainly, his family...
by: Susan W. Smith
A New Passion for Sharing the Islands

A New Passion for Sharing the Islands

When Dennis McCarthy retired in 2009, he turned to his wife, Kathi, and said. "A year on the River in photos" that is wh...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Butternut Bay: a Treasured Summer Community”

“Butternut Bay: a Treasured Summer Community”

Those of us who collect Thousand Islands material – books, pamphlets, post cards and history – will know the...
by: Susan W. Smith
Book Review: Where There’s Smoke, There’s Dinner

Book Review: Where There’s Smoke, There’s Dinner

The Lord works in mysterious ways; mothers do not. Whatever my mother did between the hours of ten that night and seven ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Book Review: First Responder

Book Review: First Responder

I begin a review of “First Responder”, by Richard Withington, MD, with a memory of a phone call I received in 2009, from...
by: Susan W. Smith
Jim Montanus, Photographer

Jim Montanus, Photographer

I call this article two for one… or actually three for one. You see, Jim Montanus posted one of his photographs o...
by: Susan W. Smith
Taste 1000 Islands

Taste 1000 Islands

Yes, New York State’s craft beverage industry is alive and well in the Thousand Islands. Taste Thousand Islands Cra...
by: Susan W. Smith
R.M. Doyon’s “The Beginning Game”

R.M. Doyon’s “The Beginning Game”

Next month, Howe Island novelist, R.M.Doyon, will release “The Beginning Game” -- the third and final novel ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Brockville Participates in Culture Days!

Brockville Participates in Culture Days!

Russ Disotell has an interesting title: “Facilitator, Brockville Culture Days”, but he is not alone.  Y...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hunting Butterflies

Hunting Butterflies

John Poland, a retired Queens professor and author of the ‘Pictorial Pocket Guide to the Butterflies of the Kingst...
by: Susan W. Smith
Welcome to Fibonacci 321 Art Gallery

Welcome to Fibonacci 321 Art Gallery

“There must be something in the name,” I thought, It was Kari Zelson Robertson, the foun. der of Fibo...
by: Susan W. Smith
German Television Comes to Town

German Television Comes to Town

A movie star I am not… but for a moment or two I certainly felt like one. It was back in April that I received an...
by: Susan W. Smith
Ben’s 1000 Island Indian Cuisine

Ben’s 1000 Island Indian Cuisine

It is too hot to cook!  I don’t want to get dressed up and go to town!  Forget about buying an expensive...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Purple House Café

The Purple House Café

I met Kerry Coyle on a June day, while I was being filmed by a crew from a German Television Show, to be broadcast on AR...
by: Susan W. Smith
Book Review: The Scimitar and the Snail

Book Review: The Scimitar and the Snail

I start this book review for “The Scimitar and the Snail” with the following Q&As: Q. Did you like the book?A. Absolu...
by: Susan W. Smith
Taste the 1000 Islands… Through Videos!

Taste the 1000 Islands… Through Videos!

It was W.C. Fields who said, “I cook with wine, sometimes I even add it to the food!” There are more than a dozen winem...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Grand Opening

The Grand Opening

Mission?  To Inspire curiosity… Like so many in the crowd, I appreciated being on hand for the opening of the new Aquat...
by: Susan W. Smith
This is Our River!

This is Our River!

How do you say thanks to those community members who do extraordinary things?  We all know that financial gifts ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Special Issue in Celebration

Special Issue in Celebration

This special issue is in celebration of the opening of the Aquatarium a 27,000+ square foot interactive, learning and di...
by: Susan W. Smith
Plus, More… Including Dockside Living and The Grille

Plus, More… Including Dockside Living and The Grille

At the same time as the Aquatarium opened, two adjoining enterprises opened their doors to rave reviews. Ian Coristine ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Meet the Authors at Gananoque Literary Festival

Meet the Authors at Gananoque Literary Festival

Yes, they are back… Some of Canada’s best-known authors are coming to Gananoque for a literary festival, fr...
by: Susan W. Smith
Elaine Vedette Tack’s “Hanka’s Tattoo”

Elaine Vedette Tack’s “Hanka’s Tattoo”

Congratulations to Elaine Vedette Tack! Elaine is well known in the Thousand Islands for her many volunteer activitie...
by: Susan W. Smith
Polar Bear Dippers

Polar Bear Dippers

Sure – dipping into the St Lawrence River on Victoria Day or Memorial Day Weekends may be necessary if you want to be a ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Steve Sturtz, the Man Behind the Lens…

Steve Sturtz, the Man Behind the Lens…

Have you met Steve Sturtz?  That’s a question many have been asking this past summer, as Steve attended sever...
by: Susan W. Smith
A Big Shout Out to Doug Tulloch

A Big Shout Out to Doug Tulloch

Take the power of giving, add a touch of social media and top it off with a “never say die” individual, name...
by: Susan W. Smith
Buy us a Coffee–Donut–or Dinner?

Buy us a Coffee–Donut–or Dinner?

In June 2014, we made the decision – 8 years after Paul’s first issue of TI Life – to ask for support.
by: Susan W. Smith
Book Review: Comfort Island: One Family’s Generational Journey

Book Review: Comfort Island: One Family’s Generational Journey

It has been several decades since I found my first book of Thousand Islands history. Since then, literally 100+ books ma...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Gift of a Maritime Museum

The Gift of a Maritime Museum

“I know a new museum is in Chippewa Bay, but I am not sure where?” I said. “Go back down the ro...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hunter Grimes III, a River’s Loss

Hunter Grimes III, a River’s Loss

For those of us on the River who knew Hunter F.  Grimes III, the news of his death in early September was sad indeed.  O...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hearing the “Gypsy Song” by Deming Holleran

Hearing the “Gypsy Song” by Deming Holleran

We received an invitation to join Joan and Skip Tolette, at their home on Grindstone Island, for wine and cheese, and a ...
by: Susan W. Smith
We say THANKS to Lynn McElfresh…

We say THANKS to Lynn McElfresh…

Turning 80 is a milestone – no I am not talking age – but rather the number of articles decided upon, resear...
by: Susan W. Smith
Art Pundt’s Photography

Art Pundt’s Photography

Seeing an Art Pundt photograph on Facebook, always brings a smile.  This month I had the opportunity to place a call and...
by: Susan W. Smith
Special Summer Happenings

Special Summer Happenings

We encourage our readers to visit the many museums and art exhibits in the region.  A simple way to plan your summe...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Ian Coristine’s 1000 Islands” – hits the mark, again

“Ian Coristine’s 1000 Islands” – hits the mark, again

Luckily for 1000 Islanders, this winter Ian Coristine found he had almost 20,000 new photographs, since he published his...
by: Susan W. Smith
Patty Mondore’s “A Bird Lover’s Reflections: A 90 Day Devotional and Journal for People Who Love Birds”

Patty Mondore’s “A Bird Lover’s Reflections: A 90 Day Devotional and Journal for People Who Love Birds”

North Wind Publishing (Belfast, Maine) releases Patty Mondore’s newest book, “A Bird Lover's Reflections: A 90-Day Devot...
by: Susan W. Smith
Play the Painted Piano…

Play the Painted Piano…

"There is a piano in the park.", said one grandchild. “Honestly, a real piano,” said the second and from the third came,...
by: Susan W. Smith
Artist Alice Burton

Artist Alice Burton

How do you capture an inspired view of the River? In memories? Perhaps digitally, or yesterday on film?  Alice Burton’s ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Thank You Doug Grant!

Thank You Doug Grant!

Throughout this past month, the name Doug Grant has overtaken my Facebook alerts and I am happy it has. He has, just ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Poetry by Thomas K. Hunt

Poetry by Thomas K. Hunt

There is no place like home and for many, home is the Thousand Islands.  Thomas K. Hunt, a poet, says this is where his ...
by: Susan W. Smith
All I want for Xmas…

All I want for Xmas…

The hook is only 139 words of the Preface, but that was all it took for me to want the Jefferson County Egan Murders: Ni...
by: Susan W. Smith
Les Boszormeny - Carving Birds from Wood

Les Boszormeny - Carving Birds from Wood

We thank you most sincerely - Les Boszormeny - for continuing to share your passion...
by: Susan W. Smith
Shapes of Rocks… Artist Judith Gould

Shapes of Rocks… Artist Judith Gould

“I look intensely at the shapes of rocks, land and water and the interplay between the sky and water.. I live in the Tho...
by: Susan W. Smith
RiverQuest on a Quest

RiverQuest on a Quest

September 17th and it is a beautiful fall morning.  As I cross the Bridge into the United States the Customs Agent asked...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hugh P. Papworth, Nine Decades a River Rat

Hugh P. Papworth, Nine Decades a River Rat

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Hugh Papworth in Alexandria Bay. Our conversations were much like reviewing a ...
by: Susan W. Smith
And More…

And More…

Yes, we have more news.  National Geographic Event…Sea-Doo Ride...Boat Parade… and a Wedding Celebration. David Do...
by: Susan W. Smith
Remembering Fallen Police Officers

Remembering Fallen Police Officers

All too often we pass over or under a highway bridge with a tribute name displayed on a sign.  We rarely stop to th...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Home Before Dark” by Rosemary Sexton

“Home Before Dark” by Rosemary Sexton

When most of us see a headline about the rich and famous, or a column about "Society", we often read it. In Rosemary Sex...
by: Susan W. Smith
Donate Button

Donate Button

In our family we have often said… “We will cross that bridge when we come to it…” When Paul Malo, created TI Life in 20...
by: Susan W. Smith
Two Histories, One Community

Two Histories, One Community

Dave Wells had no idea that his first book, published in 2011 would sell out…  “I wasn’t sure how many people would...
by: Susan W. Smith
Artist Maureen Sheridan

Artist Maureen Sheridan

“I am a realist,” says Maureen Sheridan. Her comment made me think, “I am too.”, as I loved every piece of her work a...
by: Susan W. Smith
Great White Fleet… by John Henry

Great White Fleet… by John Henry

Everything about the book, Great White Fleet:  Celebrating Canada Steamship Lines Passenger Ships, (Dundurn, Toront...
by: Susan W. Smith
River Entertaining… by Nicole Hartshorn

River Entertaining… by Nicole Hartshorn

Do you know how to make The Bloody Murry, a Starboard Coffee or Pirate Johnston Juice?  Not to worry as you can now...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hay Island’s David Ross: Canada’s Junior Culinary Olympic Team Member

Hay Island’s David Ross: Canada’s Junior Culinary Olympic Team Member

The Thousand Islands region will, in 2016, have an  Olympian! David Ross, who will graduate from Niagara College t...
by: Susan W. Smith
Will Salisbury Making Waves

Will Salisbury Making Waves

Will Salisbury began his art adventure more than four decades ago. “It was in Big Sur in 1971, that my first sales occur...
by: Susan W. Smith
“To Be or Not to Be”- Yes, Right Here in Prescott

“To Be or Not to Be”- Yes, Right Here in Prescott

Many of us have studied, or know of, Hamlet and, this summer, we may be able to experience something different, very dif...
by: Susan W. Smith
Two Fish – Two Stories

Two Fish – Two Stories

The muskie press gallery published several stories about two giant muskies caught in our Thousand Islands. Each headlin...
by: Susan W. Smith
Rose Bowl Parade and the 1000 Islands

Rose Bowl Parade and the 1000 Islands

  Carol and Ken Kozin of Clayton, NY, have been traveling to Pasadena California for the last six years to help ...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Library grows a tree

The Library grows a tree

“How can we help the Library and the community?” asked the the Friends of the Hawn Memorial Library
by: Susan W. Smith
For the bookshelf: “I am Algonquin”, “Too Young to Fight” and “The Congregation”

For the bookshelf: “I am Algonquin”, “Too Young to Fight” and “The Congregation”

Reminder: In the coming months, we will update our “Books Page” as we learn of new publications...
by: Susan W. Smith
Photography by Joseph T. Meirose IV

Photography by Joseph T. Meirose IV

Sometimes we see a beautiful photograph and think, “I wish that I could take photographs like that”. Well, that’s what I...
by: Susan W. Smith
Evidence found for the origin of the Thousand Island Dressing!

Evidence found for the origin of the Thousand Island Dressing!

In 2011, Eric J. Roberts and Andrea Reeves took an “Uncle Sam’s” boat tour one morning during a day trip to the Thousand...
by: Susan W. Smith
Patty Mondore’s Nature Reflections… Plus an inspiring video

Patty Mondore’s Nature Reflections… Plus an inspiring video

TI Life first met Patty Mondore back in August 2008 when she wrote a beautiful memorial tribute to Paul Malo, the founde...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Save Our Casino” Rally – July 30th

“Save Our Casino” Rally – July 30th

Editor’s Note: Thousand Islands  Life is pleased to publicize this important “Save our Casino Rally”.  Kevin ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Clayton’s Goose Chasers

Clayton’s Goose Chasers

Back in the early days of television, we watched the CBS’s show: “What’s My Line”, which ran fro...
by: Susan W. Smith
Help Count Loons…

Help Count Loons…

Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) has once again announced their Annual Loon Count for July 20, 2013. Observers across...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Thrill of the Hunt… Gananoque’s Flea Market

The Thrill of the Hunt… Gananoque’s Flea Market

The sandwich board points to a Flea Market and each time I see it I experience the thrill of the hunt!   In fa...
by: Susan W. Smith
Explore Bay House Artisans

Explore Bay House Artisans

What happened when eight talented artisans got together and brain stormed?  A new business was formed which gave lo...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Collection Moves On…

The Collection Moves On…

I love looking at photographs of the Thousand Islands. In fact, I can never get enough of them, so when I learned that D...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Fees go up, but “How Much”?

The Fees go up, but “How Much”?

Our family came to the Thousand Islands and spent five years visiting the St. Lawrence Islands National Park docks. As a...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life to the rescue…

TI Life to the rescue…

Wheelock Souvenir China In early February we received this email from Carol Apperson. Oceanside, Oregon, USA.  Car...
by: Susan W. Smith
RiverQuest Discovered

RiverQuest Discovered

Were you around this summer to see photographers and videographers with cameras in hand shooting from the air, on boats,...
by: Susan W. Smith
North Country’s 20 under 40

North Country’s 20 under 40

For those of you who wish you were back on the River – be envious.  On Thursday, December 13, I had the chance to g...
by: Susan W. Smith
Honour on Trial: The Shafia Murders and the Culture of Honour Killings

Honour on Trial: The Shafia Murders and the Culture of Honour Killings

If you were listening to the radio in the Thousand Islands, on the morning of June 20, 2009 you would have heard that a ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Excursions and More…

Excursions and More…

Excursions, books & magazines and a special gift to subscribers...all reasons to enjoy TI Life in the Fall, so read more here..
by: Susan W. Smith
Part II Mitchell & Wilson Ltd’s Minute Book: “People and Places”

Part II Mitchell & Wilson Ltd’s Minute Book: “People and Places”

“No story of a small privately-owned firm such as Mitchell & Wilson Ltd. can be...
by: Susan W. Smith
Update for “One in a Thousand”

Update for “One in a Thousand”

When Ian Coristine published One in a Thousand on May 1st, we asked if we at TI Life could be involved in some small way...
by: Susan W. Smith
Mitchell & Wilson Ltd.’s Minute Book, Part I

Mitchell & Wilson Ltd.’s Minute Book, Part I

The 3-ring, leather, binder is the best “read” I have had in many years. Neither a novel or a piece of non-fiction it is...
by: Susan W. Smith
Bruce Sherman - Just a River Boy... and Painter Passing Through!

Bruce Sherman - Just a River Boy... and Painter Passing Through!

A.W. Bruce Sherman usually wears a cap. On it, in bold letters, is “Art Matters”, and for him it really does.  He a...
by: Susan W. Smith
St. Lawrence ABCs: for everyone

St. Lawrence ABCs: for everyone

Z – At Zavikon Island, zealous children zig-zag around zebra mussels while Zipper zooms by.
by: Susan W. Smith
Sneak Preview… Kim’s “Island Life Magazine”

Sneak Preview… Kim’s “Island Life Magazine”

Kim Lunman, the owner and publisher of Island Life, founded the annual glossy magazine in 2009. The writer and photograp...
by: Susan W. Smith
TI Life in April 2012

TI Life in April 2012

Mid-April and lots to report and lots to look forward to! Check out this article as we introduce new...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Pot Pourri’s” Story

“Pot Pourri’s” Story

What you see is a photograph from 1965 of the Pot Pourri plying the St. Lawrence River with a Dodge Motor Home
by: Susan W. Smith
Du Zhongyi buys Eagle Point Estates

Du Zhongyi buys Eagle Point Estates

Hon. Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, in Ontario, announced on March 7th that the Eagle Point prope...
by: Susan W. Smith
Thank you Frank Eames…

Thank you Frank Eames…

Frank Eames would be called an “amateur historian” which is why his role is not well recognized.
by: Susan W. Smith
Judith Butler’s Camera

Judith Butler’s Camera

“I’m flattered when someone likes my photographs but it’s hard to take a bad picture in the Thousand Islands. Take your ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Sketching Memories: Robert Hedden Artist

Sketching Memories: Robert Hedden Artist

Most of us go on holiday with our trusty cameras ready to capture our memories, but Robert Hedden travels with a sketch ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Doing Something about Border Issues

Doing Something about Border Issues

It is not often that we hear that legislators and/or government officials in the United States and Canada are “doing som...
by: Susan W. Smith
Clayton Butler’s Thousand Island Park

Clayton Butler’s Thousand Island Park

In late August, I received a copy of Thousand Island Park: The Story of an American Eden, authored by Clayton J. Butler....
by: Susan W. Smith
Thanks to Tom French History Comes in 3-D

Thanks to Tom French History Comes in 3-D

“My Mom and I have this collection of stereograph cards, and we want to share it,” Tom French told me over the telephone...
by: Susan W. Smith
The Map

The Map

In July 2011, TI Life published a book review of Saints, Sinners and Sailors of the Gilded Age: A compendium of biograph...
by: Susan W. Smith
Motor Heads and Car Buffs

Motor Heads and Car Buffs

If you ask Elliott Hillback how to begin collecting cars he answers with a question: Do you want to drive the car or sho...
by: Susan W. Smith
Welcome back Jim…

Welcome back Jim…

How many of us wish we could live, work and play golf in the Thousand Islands? James (Jim) Hungerford, who left the Rive...
by: Susan W. Smith
Two New Library Additions…

Two New Library Additions…

“Saints, Sinners & Sailors of the Gilded Age”, by Rexford M. Ennis and Archeophone Records presents "The High Priestess of Jollity & The Southern Singer."
by: Susan W. Smith
Copy of Canada Border Services Agency Fact Sheet

Copy of Canada Border Services Agency Fact Sheet

This fact sheet appears on the Canadian Border Services Agency website: Fact Sheet July 2011 Simplified cell phone r...
by: Susan W. Smith
Robert Orr’s Knives and Wood…

Robert Orr’s Knives and Wood…

Robert Orr, of Lemon Island in the Admiralty Islands, admits he can’t draw and that he is color blind, but his prize win...
by: Susan W. Smith
Heather’s dedication, “For my Father”

Heather’s dedication, “For my Father”

Heather Chitty found a special way to honor the memory of her late father, this Father’s Day,
by: Susan W. Smith
Northern Marine’s  community…

Northern Marine’s community…

Imagine if there was no gas station near your home, no mechanic to fix your car, or, when at home, no place to park your...
by: Susan W. Smith
Ringer’s Mountains & Valleys

Ringer’s Mountains & Valleys

Artist and writer Michael Ringer, gave me the opportunity to peek inside his new book… Ringer’s Mountains & Valleys Northern New York...
by: Susan W. Smith
Going, Going, Almost Gone…

Going, Going, Almost Gone…

In April, the website ABay.com published photographs of the crumbling boathouse on Ina Island.  The author, aka Joh...
by: Susan W. Smith
Kim’s Island Life

Kim’s Island Life

Last year at this time I introduced Kim Lunman’s “Thousand Islands Ink” publishing company and her glossy magazine Islan...
by: Susan W. Smith
New Leaders in Town

New Leaders in Town

A visit to Clayton NY on a beautiful day in April gave me the opportunity to take a photograph of the newly appointed ex...
by: Susan W. Smith
Kathi and Dennis McCarthy’s Discoveries …

Kathi and Dennis McCarthy’s Discoveries …

Dennis McCarthy inspects one of the frames of the "Iroquoise" in 80 feet of water off Niagara Shoal.
by: Susan W. Smith
Johnny Truesdell’s Abay.com

Johnny Truesdell’s Abay.com

The 1st part of my trip was really fun.. the last part 'not so much'.. it was becoming Man vs Wild back there..
by: Susan W. Smith
Coming to Clayton... in June

Coming to Clayton... in June

TI Life’s team member, Michael Folsom will be busy this summer. He is the event organizer for a special happening in Cla...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hotel Guest Registry: Fill in the Blanks

Hotel Guest Registry: Fill in the Blanks

Rex Ennis, local historian and author of Toujours Jeune Always Young: Thousand Islands, Emery and The New Frontenac Hote...
by: Susan W. Smith
John Street’s Holiday Photographs

John Street’s Holiday Photographs

Meet John Street – communications expert by profession from San Diego, California and a Thousand Island resident in the ...
by: Susan W. Smith
A (Book) Celebration

A (Book) Celebration

A new book includes Canada's St. Lawrence Islands National Park...
by: Susan W. Smith
Ian’s Wallpaper Puzzle

Ian’s Wallpaper Puzzle

Who knows the correct answer? If you are a “subscriber” to TI Life, then from November to April, Canadian photographer ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Truths, Half Truths & Damn Lies

Truths, Half Truths & Damn Lies

Tom Massey’s was a fisherman, tour boat captain and tug boat skipper, but one of his most important attributes was being...
by: Susan W. Smith
Bill Munro’s camera “is there… “

Bill Munro’s camera “is there… “

Bill Munro, a photographer with a keen eye, has a simple-and-sensible philosophy about taking pictures: To get great pic...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Building Chris-Craft, Inside the Factories”

“Building Chris-Craft, Inside the Factories”

When I met Anthony (Tony) Mollica at a recent gathering, I told him that I...
by: Susan W. Smith
A Potter and an Artist

A Potter and an Artist

St. Lawrence Pottery located on Route 12N about  5 miles east of Clayton, features John Arnot’s ceramic art as well...
by: Susan W. Smith
“All about community”… “Thousand Island Park Now and Then”

“All about community”… “Thousand Island Park Now and Then”

It was one of those “hot summer days” when I first watched Thousand Island Park Now and Then.  The thirty-minute DV...
by: Susan W. Smith
Martin Zonnenberg’s Hobby

Martin Zonnenberg’s Hobby

When TI Life received a photograph of an Osprey fishing for his dinner, we immediately looked for the source.  We d...
by: Susan W. Smith
Artouch in Gananoque

Artouch in Gananoque

Consistent with our mission of raising the bar, Thousand Island Life seeks to recognize exceptional quality. A new enter...
by: Susan W. Smith
“Toujours Jeune Always Young” by Rex Ennis

“Toujours Jeune Always Young” by Rex Ennis

A new book by Rex Ennis...
by: Susan W. Smith
Many thanks, Ian

Many thanks, Ian

Ian Coristine has constantly told his friends, that "raising the bar" in the Thousand Islands is our Number One task and...
by: Susan W. Smith
New River Leader

New River Leader

Clayton's Fred Schmitt has accepted the Board of Trustees’ offer to succeed John MacLean as Executive Director of the Antique Boat Museum.
by: Susan W. Smith
Thousand Islands Ink

Thousand Islands Ink

Kim Lunman publishes the premiere issue of an annual magazine on the Thousand Islands.
by: Susan W. Smith
Thanks for “ Things I Remember”

Thanks for “ Things I Remember”

"...My parents remembered Alexandria Bay when it was only a “wooding station: where boats landed for fuel.
by: Susan W. Smith
“The Summer Cottage: Retreats of the 1000 Islands”

“The Summer Cottage: Retreats of the 1000 Islands”

As the jacket notes describe: "most charming...
by: Susan W. Smith
Photographs and more by Hope Marshall

Photographs and more by Hope Marshall

The early morning mist drapes...
by: Susan W. Smith
Nancy L. Gustke’s “The Special Artist”

Nancy L. Gustke’s “The Special Artist”

“It is amazing how there are so many Taylor drawings which have been printed and reprinted over the past century – yet so little is known about the man. “
by: Susan W. Smith
National Geographic Presents Award

National Geographic Presents Award

Consistent with our mission of raising the bar, Thousand Island Life seeks to recognize special tributes.
by: Susan W. Smith
Tremont Island History Comes Alive

Tremont Island History Comes Alive

"Tidd’s Island: a History of its People and Their Stories" was published in July of 2009
by: Susan W. Smith
John Carter’s Prisoners in Van Diemen’s Land

John Carter’s Prisoners in Van Diemen’s Land

Tasmania seems like a distant land but for John Carter, Tasmania is a treasure trunk waiting to be opened...
by: Susan W. Smith
Hooked on Prudence

Hooked on Prudence

Nobody likes Jury Duty, but for Prudence Matthews, in 1992, it was life-changing. “I knew we could not talk about the t...
by: Susan W. Smith
Paul’s Legacy, Judy’s Gift, TI Gold

Paul’s Legacy, Judy’s Gift, TI Gold

Finding a particular photograph, identifying an individual or an historic fact is like finding “gold” to a researcher. ...
by: Susan W. Smith
D. F. Baker Photography

D. F. Baker Photography

D.F. (Dani) Baker and her partner, David Belding, are the owners of  "Cross Island Farms" - one of the region's bes...
by: Susan W. Smith
Mrs. Simcoe’s Chapel, Drawings & Diary

Mrs. Simcoe’s Chapel, Drawings & Diary

In 1988 I went to England to carry out research at the National Maritime Archives in Greenwich and the
by: Susan W. Smith
Thousand Islands Postcards

Thousand Islands Postcards

Lynn Beahm, at Arcadia Publishing, sent us several photos of postcards and a description of Arcadia’s recent:  Post...
by: Susan W. Smith
Exhibit in the Making – Alson S. Clark

Exhibit in the Making – Alson S. Clark

It was a cold and rainy day on June 1st – but the invitation to meet Mike Franklin, Patricia Tague and Rhea Jenkner and ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Wolfe Island Wind Turbines

Wolfe Island Wind Turbines

    The following was received in mid-April: Dear Susan, ...
by: Susan W. Smith
John A. Morrow, Artist

John A. Morrow, Artist

"The World is a wondrous place, rich with texture, color and form, where the magic of light creates an ever changing sta...
by: Susan W. Smith
"Lakeland Boating's" Tribute to the Islands

"Lakeland Boating's" Tribute to the Islands

In March we announced that Ian Coristine's photographs were featured in the March
by: Susan W. Smith
Artist: Phil Chadwick

Artist: Phil Chadwick

  This month we welcome Phil Chadwick, aka "Phil the Forecaster", to TI Life, as an artist. Although he trained at ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Music & Art in Clayton

Music & Art in Clayton

July 17th will be a special day in Clayton. Two regional arts organizations,
by: Susan W. Smith
An Historic Treasure: Comfort Island

An Historic Treasure: Comfort Island

Comfort Island is for sale. . .  When Paul Malo created Thousand Islands Life in 2006, he created a Properties page...
by: Susan W. Smith
River-Lations: A Music Video

River-Lations: A Music Video

Patricia and Robert Mondore received good news this
by: Susan W. Smith
February's TI Life

February's TI Life

The January issue was sent in the late evening and by morning my mailbox received comments, questions and offers to contribute. That was great!
by: Susan W. Smith
More Than a Salad Dressing & an Author of Astronomy

More Than a Salad Dressing & an Author of Astronomy

Kim Lunman wrote about John Keats in our January issue (Of Time and an Author) and we all appreciate the Trilogy written...
by: Susan W. Smith
Photography by Andy King

Photography by Andy King

Andy King spends most of the summer on Black Duck Island in the Admiralty Islands.  We say "most" because...
by: Susan W. Smith
More than a Salad Dressing & the Golden Apple Fire

More than a Salad Dressing & the Golden Apple Fire

Each month I seek links to the Islands which highlight the area's history and activities, to emphasize why the Islands s...
by: Susan W. Smith
January Contributors

January Contributors

Put a thousand islands in your life... This, our second month of a new look, is an exciting one. Certainly all the pers...
by: Susan W. Smith
More than a Salad Dressing and “See’s Famous Old Time Candies”

More than a Salad Dressing and “See’s Famous Old Time Candies”

It is almost Christmas and I am about to buy several boxes of candy to give as presents. Of course I know all about See’...
by: Susan W. Smith
Contributors in December

Contributors in December

Kristen Pinkney We are pleased to present Part I of a series to publish a diary, researched and transcribed by Kristen ...
by: Susan W. Smith
From the Editor, Susan W. Smith

From the Editor, Susan W. Smith

  This month we cover three special places in the Thousand Islands – Brockville, Clayton and the region itself – t...
by: Susan W. Smith
Readers' Exchange, November 2008

Readers' Exchange, November 2008

Hello,  Thank you for the great content you give us on Thousand Islands Life. The photos make you feel like you ar...
by: Susan W. Smith
Brock’s Islands

Brock’s Islands

Many of the officers who fought in the British campaigns during the War of 1812 are commemorated in the Brock Islands. W...
by: Susan W. Smith
From the Editor, October 2008

From the Editor, October 2008

October is a hectic month for Islanders and those who summer in the Thousand Islands, for it is often synonymous with cl...
by: Susan W. Smith
Historic Island Names

Historic Island Names

It is exasperating' said Capt. William FitzWilliam
by: Susan W. Smith
More than a Salad Dressing and the 1st Duke of Wellington

More than a Salad Dressing and the 1st Duke of Wellington

Throughout the winter, I will provide a number of links to demonstrate how our region of the mighty St. Lawrence River s...
by: Susan W. Smith
Historic Hart House Inn

Historic Hart House Inn

When Paul Malo created Thousand Islands Life, the magazine, in 2005, he did so with a hope that much of the "past" would...
by: Susan W. Smith
Tribute to Hal McCarney

Tribute to Hal McCarney

  The Thousand Islands' fine friend, Hal McCarney died on September 16th in Kingston General Hospital. He was 81. ...
by: Susan W. Smith
Thousand Islands Life introduces Susan W. Smith as Editor

Thousand Islands Life introduces Susan W. Smith as Editor

A compliment, for sure by Susan W. Smith One day a few weeks ago, I met Ian Coristine and Mike Franklin to discuss the ...
by: Susan W. Smith
More than a Salad Dressing and George Washington

More than a Salad Dressing and George Washington

More than a Salad Dressing… Years ago, I met a young medical student and I was telling her about my favourite vacation r...
by: Susan W. Smith
August Tributes to Paul Malo

August Tributes to Paul Malo

The August issue of Thousand Island Life Magazine was dedicated to the memory of Paul Malo.     The magazine ...
by: Susan W. Smith