Port Stanley Villager Jan:Feb 2026

Port Stanley Villager January-February 2026 Issue 75

Letter from the Editor A few months ago, I discovered something wonderful: it’s never too late to reconnect with an old friend. There was a gentleman I went to high school with many, many moons ago. Back then, we shared classes, hobbies, and plenty of laughs. We were good friends. But like so many friendships, after graduation, we went our separate ways. I went to college; he went to college, and somehow, life

different cities. It reminded me that friendships, old or new, are worth nurturing. So here’s my gentle challenge to you: think of someone you’ve lost touch with. Maybe it’s a friend from high school, college, or even just a few years back. Reach out. Send a text, make a call. You never know what might come from it. Maybe a conversation, maybe a laugh, maybe a renewed friendship you didn’t realize you were missing. This time of year, many of us focus on our health and well-being. Consider adding your social connections to the list—they can be just as vital as any gym membership or diet plan. Strong social connections reduce stress, boost mood, encourage healthy habits, and even improve cognitive function. They give us a sense of belonging, support, and perspective, reminding us that life is richer when shared. I’m glad I reached out. I can’t wait to see my friend again next month. And I hope you’ll do the same.

just carried us along on different paths. Fast forward over 20 years. I sent him a text: “Hey, why don’t we get together for lunch? It’s been a long time.” He replied, “Sounds great!” And just like that, we met up in town and started catching up. Of course, we talked about what we’d done since high school, but what surprised me was how much we still had in common. We’re both business owners, the same age, the same stage of life, facing similar joys and challenges. It felt terrific to pick up almost exactly where we left off. There’s something special about friendships that withstand the test of time. They remember your mutual friends from back in the day, questionable haircuts, your not-so-bright decisions, and somehow, they still like you anyway. We didn’t stop at one lunch. We met again just this week, delving deeper, sharing stories about mutual acquaintances, even laughing at some of the same frustrations, despite living in

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Dental Botox at Port Stanley Dentistry by Peri Hayes Dr. Nehal Al Tarhuni, BSc, DDS and FAGD, is the founder and owner of Port Stanley Dentistry. “I have been a Dentist for 16 years,” she says, “And in Port since we built and opened our doors in November 2021.” “Botox,” Dr. Nehal notes, “Originally recognized for its role in improving facial aesthetics by reducing wrinkles and fine lines, is derived from botulinum toxin; a substance with a long-standing history of therapeutic medical use. Owing to its minimally invasive nature, Botox has gained growing acceptance in dentistry to manage the following conditions: excessive lip elevation; temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), such as locking and popping jaw; bruxism, the condition resulting from excessive clenching and grinding; denture instability caused by altered jaw muscle activity; and other dental-related concerns.”

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To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com Those with inquiries are welcome to connect with Port Stanley Dentistry at portstanleydentistry.org, by phone 226-658-2891 or by email to portstanleydentistry@gmail.com. “Many patients can benefit from this therapeutic Botox treatment -- especially those who suffer from TMJ disorders, leading to headaches and facial pain. It is one of the tools in our toolbox and we use it along with other procedures and interventions, such as night guards, splints, lasers and others, to bring about a holistic treatment approach. Cosmetically, we use Botox in dentistry to align the smile with the teeth. These procedures are called Dental Lip Flip Procedures and Gummy Smile Correction, and we use them along with lip filler to increase lip volumes, reshape the lips and restore any collagen loss due to aging, sun exposure and so forth.” “Honestly, I got trained to provide this service after benefitting from it personally,” Dr. Nehal reveals. “I tend to clench my teeth when I am focusing or thinking, and catch myself doing that even when I am working on patients. My clenching got so bad that I chipped one of my teeth, cracked one of my molars and my migraines got bad. With the therapeutic Botox injections, I got so much relief and I thought to myself, ‘This is something I see often with patients who come in with facial pain -- cracked and chipped teeth’. When I started referring my patients to others who can do the Botox injections, they had a hard time finding someone local who specialized in dental therapeutic Botox injection. It made sense for me to get the training to provide this care, and that is how my journey in this specific field got started a few years ago. I have been proudly able to help so many patients this way.”

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The Pursuit of Happiness: Finding Balance with Holistic Self-Care by Maud Coca, MSW, RSW, Psychotherapist, Clinical Director & Founder at Coconut Vigor – Wellness Hub As another year passes by, many of us find ourselves in reflection mode, wondering what went well, what didn’t, and what we might want to change in the year ahead. We call these thoughts ‘New Year’s resolutions’, but really, they’re about something much deeper: our search for happiness. The truth is, happiness isn’t just a target to chase; it’s about finding balance in our lives — mind, body, and spirit. Each of us has our own unique hopes and needs, and understanding them is the first step toward creating positive change. It’s only natural to want more joy and contentment — everyone does. But let’s be honest: life isn’t always easy. Winter can bring on the blues, the holidays might stir up sadness or grief, and sometimes work, relationships, or worries about the future can make things feel a bit overwhelming. Some of us experience a drop in motivation and energy, making it challenging to maintain routines. You are not alone in feeling this way. The good news? We can choose what to focus on and take action, even if it’s just a small step. What if, instead of chasing a big idea of happiness, we brought our attention to each day? Being present and enjoying small wins can make a world of difference. This way of thinking matches up with Indigenous teachings, which remind us that harmony is achieved by considering the individual as a whole. In particular, attention to physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health is fundamental to this approach.

Here’s a little inspiration for your own self-care list: · Physical: Go for a walk; stretch; get sleep; hydrate; cook something tasty; play a game (like pickleball) or simply rest when you need it. · Mental: Read a book; learn something new; set a small goal; jot down your thoughts; unplug from screens; join a group or try a hobby. · Emotional : Let yourself feel what you’re feeling; practice self-kindness; ask for support; connect with loved ones or community; use positive self-talk or reach out for help if you need it. · Spiritual: Spend time in nature; connect with family or friends; practise gratitude; meditate; listen to music; create art; pray; dance or reflect on what gives your life meaning. Why not create your own self-care list for the next couple of months? Keep it simple and personal. No need for big, lofty goals; your needs will change with the seasons, and that’s perfectly okay. Check in with yourself and see what feels right at each stage. Remember, happiness and balance aren’t just possible, they’re within reach when you nurture all parts of yourself. Set an intention, take small steps, and let this journey of holistic wellness bring more joy and positive memories into your life.

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Councillor’s Corner by Michelle Graham The Municipality of Central Elgin is navigating the 2026 budget process. Under Ontario’s Strong Mayors, Building Homes Act, 2022, the Province expanded ‘strong mayor’ powers to Central Elgin, effective May 1, 2025. These powers allow the mayor to formally propose the municipal budget, subject to limited Council modification, and allow the mayor to veto Council amendments. I have been a strong voice against Strong Mayor powers for just these reasons. In 2023, 2024 and 2025, Central Elgin approved its municipal budget with a zero percent municipal tax rate increase and still accumulated over a $2 million surplus. I personally sat with our treasurers on multiple days and for many hours each year to ensure fiscal responsibility and to reduce what I considered past wasteful spending. This allowed for a fiscally responsible budget that each year saw no increase in taxes and the $2 million surplus to be put into our reserves (savings). I consider this a huge success for our municipality and our taxpayers, as it was the primary campaign promise that I ran under during the 2022 election after listening to the most common complaint from residents. The 2026 budget process will continue through public consultation, committee review, and Council deliberations before final adoption, so please do contact your councillors if you wish to verbalize your concerns or your agreement with the proposed 2% tax increase. I look forward to hearing from you. On a lighter note, I want to congratulate The Village People Com- mittee for another success in the December Reindeer Round-up. It was a great day of joy, laughter, shopping and community spirit for all who participated!

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Looking Ahead: A Year of Opportunity for Elgin–Middlesex–London by Hon. Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, MPP for Elgin–Middlesex–London As we turn the page on another year, I want to take a moment to reflect on where we’ve been and, more importantly, where we’re headed. The past year has been one of progress and challenges, but also of resilience and opportunity. In 2026, my focus remains clear: strengthening our communities, supporting our families, and protecting our economy. Unfortunately, our economy, our jobs, and our families have been the target of President Trump’s punitive trade antics. Under the leadership of Premier Ford, your provincial government will always protect Ontario. That was the clear mandate we were honoured to be given and the mandate that will deliver results for our riding of Elgin–Middlesex–London. We are fortunate to have attracted historic levels of investment in Elgin–Middlesex–London. In fact, 10% of all economic investment in Ontario is happening right here in our region. This is a staggering figure that speaks to our strategic importance and the confidence global companies have in our workforce and communities. Most recently, Vianode announced a $3.2 billion facility in St. Thomas to produce synthetic graphite for electric vehicle batteries. This project alone will create 1,000 new jobs and position our region as a leader in the EV supply chain. Alongside Vianode, the Volkswagen EV battery plant (the largest auto investment in

Canadian history) continues to move forward, bringing thousands of jobs and billions in economic activity. These investments will ripple through our local economy, supporting suppliers, contractors, and small businesses for decades to come. This is a transformation for our region. Elgin–Middlesex–London is becoming a hub for advanced manufacturing and large-

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scale economic development, positioning our communities as a driving force behind Ontario’s growth and a key player in the global automotive and mobility sector. Protecting and growing our economy creates the ability for our government to continue our commitments to support, fund, and invest in new hospitals, primary care, a strengthened education system, and critical infrastructure like roads and water. Under the 2026 Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund, nearly $14 million is being invested across Aylmer, Bayham, Central Elgin, Malahide, Southwold, St. Thomas, Thames Centre, and West Elgin to renew critical infrastructure. From safer roads and bridges to improved water systems, these investments will keep our communities connected and resilient. In 2026, families across our riding will see major progress on new schools and child-care spaces. Construction is underway on two modern elementary schools in London, which will both include licensed childcare, adding spaces for 1,180 students and 176 children in childcare. Moreover, Belmont’s new public school is also moving forward, ensuring rural families have access to top-tier education close to home. These projects are solid investments in our children’s future and in the vitality of our communities. I am proud of the collaborative health-care model in St. Thomas, where community partners from across sectors work together to support our most vulnerable residents. This integrated approach delivers real results by connecting people to housing, addiction supports, and primary care in a coordinated system. It’s a model that strengthens health outcomes while reinforcing the sense of community that defines our region. Looking ahead, I will continue to advocate for investments that expand access to care, reduce wait times,

and ensure that every resident, regardless of circumstance, can find the support they need close to home. The year ahead is about building on this momentum. Our government will continue to focus on health care improvements, housing affordability, and workforce development to ensure that every resident benefits from the growth we are experiencing. Our region is leading Ontario in economic investment, and that leadership will translate into stronger communities, better services, and opportunities for all. 2026 is a year of opportunity. It’s a chance to build on the progress we’ve made and tackle the issues that matter most to Ontarians. I’m optimistic about what we can achieve together, and I look forward to continuing the work of making our province stronger, fairer, and more resilient. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your MPP. My door is always open, and I welcome your ideas, feedback, and collaboration as we move forward, together.

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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 7

Staying Social with Port Stanley’s Service Clubs by Peri Hayes The social clubs in the lakeside village are a testament to how community engagement nourishes connection. The following social clubs are several of the fulfilling opportunities by the harbour. Kettle Creek Swans Valerie Barendregt, President of Kettle Creek Swans, joined this Club upon her husband’s passing. This socialization and space for connection has produced incredible benefits, as she expresses, “I found a wonderful group of women, and the work they do is amazing.” With delight, Valerie highlights their fundraising for the Community Cupboard, local Legion, Library and school, along with supporting individual requests. With 18 members, the group prioritizes socializing once a month outside of their volunteer service -- for which they enjoy mini-golf, visit various restaurants and more. As Valerie enthuses, “We are always looking for anyone who is wanting to be active in the community, and would enjoy making friends with a group of women intent on helping wherever needed.” Their meetings occur on the second Wednesday and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm. Connect with a representative by emailing portstanleykettlecreekswans@gmail.com. Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley Louise Macphee, Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley President and Kiwanis District Trustee for Southern Ontario, introduces, “I was already a Kiwanian when I moved to Port Stanley in 2017 DIRECT RESPONSE AD SAVE

and even though there were service clubs established here, I wanted to carry the Kiwanis movement where I resided.” “Kiwanis is the only club globally that serves just children. We believe that when you give a child a chance to learn, experience, dream and succeed, great things happen! Kiwanis is unique in that we have service leadership programs from elementary school through college and university, which train our young people to perform service, build character and develop leadership skills.” Colleen Gemmell, Charter President and Membership Chair, proceeds, “One of our main focuses is children’s literacy, and we are proud to be an affiliate with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.” Cheerfully, Louise offers, “I highly recommend the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley, because we are the newest club in town and we all started from scratch in 2021 -- testing the waters, so to speak, and making a difference.” Being a worldwide organization, your contribution resonates with Kiwanians across the globe. Along with collaborative divisional meetings, Louise shares, “We have a convention each year where Eastern Canada and the Caribbean meet for a four-day informative, fun-filled gala, packed full of same-minded people with the same goal in mind – the kids!” As Louise concludes, “I am the proud Founder of this Kiwanis Club -- but without these dedicated members, I couldn’t have done it.” Inquiries are accepted by Colleen at collgemmell@gmail.com. Optimist Club of Port Stanley Emily Finch is the proud President of the Optimist Club of Port Stanley. She had been involved with community groups since PROOF #: JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP JAN FEB MAR

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childhood when a founding member of the club connected with her: “It was her stories and tears that got me -- the rest is history.” Serving the community for over 50 years, the Optimist Club of Port Stanley remains enthusiastic about uplifting and celebrating the success of others. As a group of 30, Emily invites, “Optimists are community-focused volunteers dedicated to supporting local youth and creating positive, lasting change. We’d love for you to stop by and see what the Optimist Club of Port Stanley is all about. We meet at the Port Stanley Library on the third Wednesday of most months at 7:00 pm.” They are looking to warmly welcome a member with webpage experience. The Optimist Club is sponsoring Optimist International scholarship opportunities for youth -- an Essay Contest and an Oratorical Contest. The entry deadline is February 7th, and Debbie is the appropriate Club contact at optimistdebbie@outlook.com. “Whether it’s to build business connections or develop new skills -- whatever brings you through our doors, you’ll find a welcoming group ready to support you and make a difference together.” Kindly connect with Emily at 519-769-2514 or emfinch3@gmail. com, and visit their Facebook page for further information. Port Stanley Lions Club “My dad and uncle were Charter Members in 1960,” Dave Marr describes. “I went to many Lions functions and fundraisers growing up. As a teenager, I joined the first Port Stanley Lions Leo Club (Junior Lion); this is where I learned the importance of giving back. It seemed only natural to join as a Lion when I moved back to Port Stanley.”

The Lions Club contributes funds toward local organizations, individuals and the community. “Examples of that would be the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital, Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin, the Community Cupboard in Port Stanley, Kettle Creek Elementary School, Branch #41 Legion, various youth organizations and many more.” With 27 members, Dave encourages, “If making your com- munity better interests you, consider being a Lion. I find the time we spend together at a fun social event or while raising funds to support worthwhile causes leaves a person feeling invigorated and satisfied that you are giving back where it is needed. It is a great feeling when you see others so grateful for our Lions Club support.” Dave exclaims, “Besides the feeling of gratitude, it also allows our members to maintain and acquire new friendships -- all the more rewarding when you are working together for a common cause.” Membership Chair, Bob Nemett, receives inquiries at 519-633-5556. Alternatively, chat with any Port Stanley Lions Club member at a community event.

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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 9

LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE

Marcia Pensa by Peri Hayes Marcia Pensa enthusiastically introduces her background in art: “As an Honour Fine Arts grad from University of Guelph and with a Bachelor of Education, I worked as a high school art teacher — as well as a department head — for 30 plus years in a variety of school boards in Ontario and Manitoba.” During her abundant career, Marcia taught art history, clay sculpture, drawing, Elements and Principles of Design, mixed- media 3-D, perspective skills, printmaking methods and more, along with acrylic, oil and watercolour painting. Marcia proceeds, “I taught silkscreen, photography, industrial design and the history of architecture throughout the ages.” In addition to organizing an array of field trips to the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, Marcia coordinated opportunities abroad for her students: travelling to Greece and Italy; visiting the ancient Greek and Roman artifacts; touring Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance artworks and architecture. Reflecting on her career thus far, Marcia shares that the pieces of which she feels particularly proud are the paintings that hold special meaning. “It is hard to let them go,” she admits, “I have a connection to them, in terms of the subject matter or the time period in my life when I painted them. A good example is one that features a family pet we had to put down a few years ago.” Presently, Marcia’s preferred medium is painting with oil on canvas. While detailing what inspires her work, Marcia reveals

with whimsy, “I love painting during the afternoon. When I close the door of my studio and put on my music, I am in painting mode.” This passionate artist is undeniably outspoken about celebrating local creativity: “There are so many fine artists in our community of Port Stanley, and there are a lot of artists out there bringing awareness to their creativity in many ways -- in many places in town! In an age when people can source cheap prints and ‘Home Sense’ their homes with mass-produced ‘art as décor’, I feel it is important to keep reminding people of the value of a one-of-a-kind piece, created by an artist. There are untold hours of work involved and very thoughtful, creative decisions made when an artist undertakes a painting.” Currently, Marcia has pieces available for purchase at the Art Emporium, Port Stanley Dentistry and the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. She occasionally has work featured at The Art & Soul Café. Most recently, she participated in the St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre’s Miniature Show and Sale.

Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026

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As Marcia cheerfully announces, “I want to share that the Association of Port Stanley Artists (APSA) is a local group that, in October, held a most successful two-day art show at the Legion -- and we will do so again next year.” APSA creations can be found at the aforementioned Dentistry. Moreover, Marcia details, “It is our group that manages and curates the artwork which can be seen throughout the year at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. These displays feature artists from a broad area.” Recently, APSA enjoyed an art show titled APSA SQUARED for which members displayed works square in dimension, of any size. Marcia warmly concludes, “If you are an artist and live in the village, you are welcome to contact us and find out about joining our group. We still have a few openings for artists in town.”

Connect with a representative through the portstanleyartists. com website, which entails further information about APSA. Meanwhile, those with inquiries about Marcia’s work are invited to email her directly at marciapensa@gmail.com.

Stay connected and informed this winter! 2026 Council Meeting Schedule 2026 Garbage and Recycling Collection Calendar 2026 Municipal Budget Public Skating Schedules - including free skating thanks to local sponsors! Latest News & Upcoming Events – Don’t miss a thing in your community! Visit centralelgin.org for:

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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 11

Port Stanley Villager Geoffrey Rae, Managing Editor /Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoffrey Rae unless otherwise indicated. Writer – Peri Hayes Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher – Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com challenges for a chance to win a prize. January 24th – February 7th, 2026 A Handmade Hug: Valentine Card Drop-In Port Stanley Library Join us at the library to make Valentine cards for our seniors in long-term care. February 2nd – 28th, 2026 Blind Date with a Book. Port Stanley Library Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events Pre-School Storytime Port Stanley Library, every Tuesday at 10:00 am. Join us for songs, stories, and a craft. Ages 0-5 and their caregiver. Nia with Gillian Union Sports and Community Centre, every Friday at 10 am. Contact Vicki 519-631-9294 Knitting Group Port Stanley Library, every Tuesday at 2 pm. Bring your projects and meet new people. Everybody welcome. Men’s Club Port Stanley Library, every Monday at 10 am. Pop in for a chat and coffee. Kids Club Port Stanley Library, every Monday, from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Join us for a story, games, and a craft. Grades 1 and up, JK/ SK with a caregiver. January 12th – February 27th , 2026 Winter Reading Port Stanley Library. Join our Winter Reading Challenge. Everyone can participate. Log your reading, and do fun

Port Stanley Villager Take a wrapped book home without knowing its title. Go ahead... you just might fall in love. Thursday January 15th, 2026 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. We will discuss The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin. Everybody welcome. Monday, January 26th, 2025 Scrapbooking with Mickey Port Stanley Library, 10-12 pm. Organize your photos, cost $10. Monday, February 2nd, 2026 Port Stanley Art Guild Accepting New Members. Port Stanley United Church, 7 pm – 10 pm. 239 Colborne St, Port Stanley. The guild is just gearing up this year and welcoming new members. Just show up! More info at portstanleyartguild.com. Monday February 9th, 2026 Card Making Port Stanley Library, 1 pm to 3 pm. Create handmade cards with Jean. Cost: $10. Tuesday, February 10th, 2026 Visit to Extendicare Port Stanley Extendicare, 4551 East Rd, Port Stanley, 10:15 am. Join the Port Stanley Library Pre-school Story Time in visiting Extendicare, where we will sing some songs, read a story, make a craft. Everybody Welcome. Thursday February 19th, 2025 Adult Book Club. Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. We will discuss Horse by Geraldine Brooks. Everybody welcome. Monday, February 23rd, 2025 Scrapbooking with Mickey. Port Stanley Library, 10 to 12 pm. Organize your photos, cost $10. Saturday, February 28th, 2025 Puzzle Competition. Port Stanley Library, 10 am. Join our Puzzle Competition. Cost Free. Registration required. The Port Stanley Library and Port Stanley Festival Theatre are located at 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. The Union Sports & Community Centre is located at 6068 Bell St., Union. To have your event included in an upcoming calendar, email hometown@villagerpublications.com with the name of the event, the date, time, location, and a description of up to 20 words. MANIA Jumbo Jumbo CENTRE 460 Sunset St. Thomas MANIA Jumbo OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY, 10AM TO 4PM 519.631.1460 EXT. 193 • Kids Crafts and Activities • Jumbo Scavenger Hunt KIDS CRAFTS AND ACTIVITES JUMBO SCAVENGER HUNT FEBRUARY 16 1-4PM FAMILY DAY FAMILY DAY FEBRUARY 16, 1–4pm • Step into the past with our FREE green screen photo booth FEBRUARY 16 1-4PM FAMILY DAY elgincounty.ca/museum elgincounty.ca/museum JULY 2, 2025 TO MARCH 20, 2026 STEP INTO THE PAST WITH OUR FREE GREEN SCREEN PHOTO BOOTH KIDS CRAFTS AND ACTIVITES JUMBO SCAVENGER HUNT FEBRUARY 16 1-4PM STEP INTO THE PAST WITH OUR FREE GREEN SCREEN PHOTO BOOTH JULY 2, 2025 TO MARCH 20, 2026 MANIA Y DAY AT THE ELGIN COUNTY HERITAGE JULY 2, 2025 TO MARCH 20, 2026

Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood C opyright @ 2015 Villager Publications.

All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproducedor used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.

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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026

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elgincounty.ca/museum elgincounty.ca/museum

Embracing Winter’s Best Getaways by Marna Berry, Travel Consultant & Experiential Guid e As the chill of January and February settles in, the urge to escape to warmer or perhaps just different climates becomes irresistible. While many are

Additionally, VIA Rail is part of this fantastic initiative, offering free travel for children 17 and under and a 25% discount for young adults (18 to 24). This is a phenomenal opportunity for families and students to explore Canadian cities and towns by train — a truly cozy and nostalgic way to travel in the winter months. Take advantage of the affordability and let the train whisk you away to a new adventure without the hassle of driving in winter weather. Of course, you don’t even have to leave Elgin County to find your perfect getaway. When the summer crowds retreat, Port Stanley, Ontario, transforms into a peaceful, cozy harbour village. A winter visit here is all about quiet charm and relaxation. Catch the spectacular sunrises on Little Beach, or sunsets on Main Beach or the Port Stanley Pier, the waves crashing against the ice in a dramatic display of nature. Then, retreat to a charming local café for a hot drink and a locally made treat, or settle into a cozy rental cottage or one of Ontario’s Finest Inns with a fireplace overlooking the quiet lake. Our local shops and restaurants offer a warm welcome, making it the perfect antidote to winter blues. It’s a chance to reconnect with the simple pleasures and savour the serenity of our Lake Erie community. Whether you’re hopping a train to a National Park or simply crossing the King George VI Lift Bridge to take a ride on the Port Stanley Terminal Rail during your staycation, let January and February be your invitation to travel.

heading to exotic international destinations, this year, some are exploring how we can satisfy that craving for travel both globally and right here at home. For those dreaming of a long-haul escape, January and February offer some spectacular choices. If you crave sun and sand, the dry season in Mexico and the ideal weather in the Dominican Republic are hard to beat. For something more adventurous, consider Costa Rica for wildlife and adventure activities, or chase the summer in Australia or New Zealand. Just remember to book early and watch those airfare alerts! But here’s a secret: the quietest months can be the most magical for exploring Canada. The winter incentive programs are incredible, and they encourage us to embrace the beauty of our own backyard. Destination Ontario and the associated Canada Strong Pass have made local exploration exceptionally appealing. Until January 15th, the pass provides free admission to Parks Canada sites and discounts on camping. Imagine snowshoeing through the stunning winter landscapes of Pukaskwa National Park or another national historic site, all while saving money!

Did you know that wearing the correct size bra can help with the health of your breasts?

NEW YEAR, BOLD FLAVOURS

Start 2026 off right, book and appointment for a bra fitting with Aline's.

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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 13

Planning your future or making a move? Wills, Estates, Reverse Mortgages, Purchase, Sale & Refinancing. Convenient evening, weekend & virtual appointments. Paul F. Lépine Law Office (226) 658-0150 26 Little Creek Place, Port Stanley Wendy@paullepine.ca

• 1st time buyers • Refinances • Reverse mortgages • Self employed Rates starting at 3.99% *

Sean Menard Mortgage Agent Level 2 - #M18001433 226.926.6046 menardmortgage@gmail.com www.asimplermortgage.ca *O.A.C., rates are subject to change without notice.

Looking for a New Shed this Winter?

We fix what your husband repairs & so much more! Ask about our Plumbing Service Plans!

519.207.0621 elgincountyplumbing.ca

Let us make the Custom Made, Locally Built Shed Your Back Yard Deserves! Hand Crafted – Custom Built Mini Barns • Work Sheds • Play Houses Pool Change Rooms

Residential / Commercial 24 hr Emergency Services Visit our showroom at 16 Barrie Blvd., St. Thomas

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It’s Time to Love Your Feet Again

CONNECTING HOMEOWNERS WITH TRUSTED LOCAL EXPERTS Tired of unreliable and unprofessional tradespeople ? Next time, go to homereadypros.ca and contact one of our vetted and trusted professionals.

Basic, Advanced and Diabetic Foot Care Love Your Feet by Pam (226) 236-1810 378 Talbot St suite #7/8, St Thomas www.loveyourfeetbypam.com

Our platform is designed to be free and easy to use, giving homeowners access to multiple local service providers in one convenient location. www.homereadypros.ca

Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026

To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com

Aligned with the Community: Harbour Health Chiropractic Opens in Port Stanley When Dr. Joel Wright opened Harbour Health Chiropractic and Rehab in Port Stanley, it wasn’t just a career milestone; it was about filling a gap in the community. For Dr. Wright, opening his clinic, located in Port Stanley Dentistry at 286 Bridge St., felt like a natural fit. “There was no physio or chiropractor here,” he says, “So there was a need. I’ve loved Port Stanley for years, and the opportunity just came together.” Graduating in 2023, Dr. Wright has been practising since August 9 of that year, though his path to becoming a chiropractor was anything but short. “I did 12 years of school before that,” he says with a laugh. “Almost a professional student at points.” Originally, his sights were set on physiotherapy. During his master’s studies, he shadowed both physiotherapists and chiropractors. “I realized they’re kind of very similar,” he explains. “I always wanted to get into something like this [chiropractic]; it was the avenue that presented itself.” Going far beyond the outdated stereotype of ‘just cracking backs’, Dr. Wright’s modern chiropractic care offers a wide range of evidence-based treatments, including joint mobilization, soft- tissue work, acupuncture, and rehabilitation exercises. “If people don’t want to be adjusted, I don’t push that on them,” he says. “An adjustment is like a drill; it’s quick, and it’s done. Mobilizations are like a screwdriver; they take longer, but you get the screw where it needs to go.” Dr. Wright works to dispel common myths about chiropractic care, including the belief that once you start, you must keep

going forever. “I’m an evidence-based chiro,” he says. “I geared myself toward the research.” Another misconception is that chiropractors only treat backs and necks. “That’s not true,” Dr. Wright notes. “I work on every joint and on nerve-related conditions. I focus on why the pain is there in the first place.” Harbour Health Chiropractic and Rehab operates on Tuesdays, from 9 am to 5 pm and Thursdays, from 10 am to 6 pm, with plans to expand hours as the practice grows. For Dr. Wright, the goal is simple: help people move better, feel better, and stay active for the long term.

New Year, New Opportunities. Start the year off right with a mortgage checkup.

Kimberly Langford Mortgage Agent 2 Lic# M23005308 Mortgage Architects Lic# 12728 p. 519-520-2213

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519-631-1919 visit us: railwaycityhealthhut.ca 417 Wellington St, in the Elgin Centre email us: store@railwaycityhealthhut.ca

To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com

Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 15

Healing Through the Arts Gift Shop Now Open! The Veterans Art Gallery Gift shop has unique gifts. Specialized T-shirts, puzzles, hats, sculptures, pins, limited edition prints and original paintings.

Our Mission: The Veterans Art Gallery in Port Stanley is a unique project dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space where veterans can share their stories, heal, and connect through art. Our veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms, but many return home facing invisible battles. How We Help Our Veterans: The gallery provides veterans with a space to display their artwork, host workshops, and participate in art therapy sessions. It’s not just a gallery—it’s a community, a space for creativity, and a refuge for healing. Here, veterans can express their experiences and emotions in ways that words sometimes cannot capture. How You Can Help Our Veterans: Help Us Bring Healing Through Art: Support the Veterans Art Gallery in Port Stanley, Ontario 211 Main Street, Port Stanley. To donate visit veteransartgallery.org.

211 Main Street, Port Stanley, Ontario • 519-200-1616 support@veteransartgallery.org • veteransartgallery.org OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS

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