By Glenn Fritz What comes to mind when you hear the term Ice Cream Social? To this writer, it means going back to simpler times. A time prior to the term Covid, before cell phones, even black and white TVs. A time when families and friends gathered on a lazy Sunday afternoon and enjoyed each others company, swapped stories, as well as sharing a refreshing snack. Well this tradition continued on a lovely Sunday afternoon at the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse in Cape Vincent on August 14th. Jean Cougler, who along with her husband George, ran the hostel at the Lighthouse for 11 summers, from 1992 to 2002. After a couple of years, Jean came up with the idea of an Ice Cream Social as a way to draw people's attention to the fact that the hostel rented beds out to travelers (mostly younger people) looking for an inexpensive place to stay and to enjoy the beauty of Cape Vincent. The hostel was closed at the Lighthouse in 2018. After running the hostel, Mrs. Cougler went on to become a volunteer at the Visitor Center, then joining the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse Historical Society Board of Directors and later rising to the Recording Secretary. Sadly Mrs. Cougler passed away in 2018 and the tradition ceased. It was brought back a couple of years later when the Board of the Lighthouse Historical Society decided that it would be a fitting tribute to honor Mrs. Cougler's memory and dedicated service by reinstating this tradition. Hence the “Jean Cougler Ice Cream Social” was born. This year's event served over 200 sundaes. Besides enjoying the free ice cream sundaes and chocolate chip cookies, musical entertainment was provided by local musician Pat Dolan. A great time was had by all, sharing a carefree afternoon with friends, new and old, on the beautiful grounds of the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse.
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By Glenn Fritz A beautiful day met the riders in the First Annual 1000 Islands Cycling Tour, sponsored by the Tibbett Point Lighthouse Historical Society. The lighthouse provided both the starting and ending point of the ride. Blue skies, temperature in the mid-60's, with a slight breeze awaited the riders on July 7th. It was perfect weather. The nearly nine mile, leisurely trip went through the beautiful scenery throughout the Town and Village of Cape Vincent, as well as along the St. Lawrence river. There was a scavenger hunt that highlighted the historical spots along the route for those participants wishing to play. After the ride, tee shirts were handed out to the riders along with a goodie bag. A box lunch was served to participants and pleasant music was provided by Gary Walts for all those gathered at the lighthouse. Jean Cougler Day is an annual event held on the second Sunday in August. The date was
chosen to fall between National Lighthouse Day and International Lighthouse Day/Weekend that is held the third full weekend in August. The public is welcome to attend and enjoy free ice cream sundaes, music, and socializing at the beautiful point where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River. Everyone is encouraged to come early and stay late. Our sunsets are spectacular! Follow us on Facebook for updates on this family fun event. |