I first met Joanne (where else) at GRSS.  She taught both my daughters Mikayla and Kristanna English, then retired after Kristanna’s year. (I hope that wasn’t a coincidence – hehe)  

Joanne (I still want to call her Ms. Folkins) is extremely devoted to the cats in our Village as well as all animals.  I know (from our conversations on the Buzz and in person) that she is truly dedicated and loves what she does.  

How long have you lived in Gold River? What brought you here?

I came to Gold River in the fall of 1983 to take a position at Gold River Secondary teaching Music and English.  So, that makes it 32 years ago.

What do you do for (paid) work?

I’m retired now but do substitute teach occasionally.

Please tell us about any volunteer work you do.

My volunteer work is my next calling-  animal rescue.  I run the Gold River Cat Society but will help any animal.  The Society traps feral cats for the Village/SPCA TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) program, foster cats and kittens for adoption, socialize feral cats and kittens for adoption, and help any cat/kitten in need.

Do you have any pets?

I have many pets:  a Standard Poodle, 3 indoor cats, 2 feral cats plus 1 adult foster cat and two kittens who will go up for adoption next month.

What do you like to do for fun?

For fun, I love to hike, travel, read, play Bridge, and keep abreast of animal rescue issues.

What do you wish Gold River had that it doesn’t? Is there anything missing for you?

Many Gold Riverites won’t believe this, but we have a lot of recreational opportunities here.  What we need is another industry to help the village thrive again.

And just for fun – if you had 1 million dollars to donate to the community in any way you wished – what would you do with the money?

Ha!  I’d open an animal sanctuary!  Our orphaned bears wouldn’t have to go to the NIWRA if caught.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I love this village.  I simply wish that we could attract more young people to move here.

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