Port Stanley Villager December 2025 Issue 74
Letter from the Editor One of the great things about Christ- mas and the whole Christmas season is the traditions. Some go back thousands of years and are shared by families around the world. Others are much more personal… like re- membering to take the buns out of the oven after the turkey comes out. That’s a family tradition in my house. My mother forgot the buns many times over the years, and now that I
bountiful year and there’s still wrapping to do after midnight, I roll right into National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation . I’ve been known to wrap gifts until two, three, even four in the morning, but I can’t seem to do it without a holiday movie playing in the background. Christmas dinner is another one of those cherished continuities. When I was growing up, my mother and grandfather made the same turkey dinner every year: mashed potatoes, carrots and parsnips, squash, a pickle tray, a cheese tray, rice and sausage stuffing—and, of course, those infamous buns. Now that I’m hosting dinner, the menu hasn’t changed much in 47 years, though my mother-in-law has contributed her own family favourite: blueberry duff, a Maritime classic that’s become a welcome addition to our table. Whatever your family traditions look like -- old, new, big, small, or slightly singed, I hope they bring you joy this holiday season. From my family to yours, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and may your buns make it to the table.
host Christmas dinner myself, I can’t even point fingers. I have gotten busy and forgotten about the buns once or twice, too. It’s almost not Christmas until someone says, ‘Hey, weren’t there supposed to be buns?’ Traditions can be big or small, fancy or simple. Maybe it’s spending time with family, baking your famous holiday cookies, or decorating the tree in your own unique way, whether that means carefully coordinated or chaotically creative. A good friend of mine tells me about his family’s two very different approaches. His mother’s tree is a joyful explosion of tinsel and mismatched ornaments -- fun, spontaneous, and full of memories. His aunt’s, on the other hand, is a masterclass in precision. She spaces her Elvis ornaments with the accuracy of a surveyor. (She’s a retired accountant, so it all makes sense.) For me, one of my favourite Christmas traditions is watching Miracle on 34th Street , the original black-and-white version only, thank you, while wrapping presents. If it’s been a particularly
Port Stanley Villager December 2025 cover At the Battle at the Beach Hockey Tournament, the Port Stanley White were taking on the Ingersoll Express. Sadly the Express emerged victorious 4 – 2. Photo by Geoff Rae.
Port Stanley Villager magazin e has partnered with local businesses to help share the joy of Christmas with local seniors. Search this magazine for this Santa logo, and each time you find him, you will see a business that cared about sharing a smile this Christmas. Each of these Santas represents gifts given to local seniors through the Smiles for Seniors at Christmas How you can win!
Fresh • Local • Delicious FARM-FRESH FRUITS & VEGGIES HOMEMADE BAKED GOODS 6548 Sunset Rd, St. Thomas, ON, N5P 3S8 Open Daily — 9am to 5pm
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program. This year, with the support of our local businesses, we have been able to donate $3,000, and over five years, we have given more than $17,000 in total. If you can spot all the Santas, you, too, have a chance to win. Count the Santas and send an email with your name, phone number and the name of this magazine to hometown@ villagerpublications.com with the correct number of Santas for your chance to win. On December 15th, we will randomly draw one name from the correct entries, and you could win a $75 Foodland gift certificate just in time for Christmas!
May your Christmas be M erry & B right From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!
Port Stanley Villager
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
519-773-8951 or 519-631-0590 www.koolenelectric.ca IN POWER. SINCE 1920
Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • December 2025
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Chris Smith, The Village Butcher by Peri Hayes
Local entrepreneur, Chris Smith, introduces his recently launched business: “My drive at The Village Butcher is to provide quality cuts of meat with exceptional service. This is an opportunity to take care of myself and my family, while doing something I truly enjoy. I learn something new daily, and that excites me. In a few words, The Village Butcher represents a risk, an opportunity and, if all goes well, a successful endeavour.”
Photo courtesy of Jane Walker of Magical Port Stanley
A Port Stanley Festival Theatre gift certificate is more than a gift — it’s an experience! ,
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com Chris cheerfully concludes, “As the village evolves, getting our name out there now and utilizing the Market as a vehicle for growth is the perfect fit for The Village Butcher. I look forward to continuing to serve the wants and needs of my current customers, while also welcoming the opportunity to earn new customers.” Those with inquiries about The Villager Butcher are encouraged to connect with Chris through his ‘The Village Butcher’ Facebook page. Alternatively, he can be reached via email at thevillagebutcher2025@gmail.com. As Chris encourages, “It’s best to check out my Facebook page for up-to-date inventory. I post daily about what’s in the cooler and what I’ll be working on for the day. As well, it’s best to message ahead for large orders, so I can make sure I have what is requested.” While sharing his background, Chris enthusiastically highlights, “I’ve worked in many different fields and business models. When I was offered this opportunity, I thought to myself, ‘Why not? You’ve got experience in all these fields; take that knowledge and apply it to yourself -- build a brand.’ After speaking with another successful butcher, I knew that I could learn the skills and make The Village Butcher something to be proud of.” Specifically detailing his location at the Port Stanley Fire Hall Market, Chris describes, “The Market owners approached me and through some discussions, we came up with the idea of the service counter with the ultimate goal of becoming a community fixture and an anchor in the Market. About embarking on his latest venture, Chris continues, “I have known Dale for some time, and he is aware of my personality and drive to serve. The Market is a great venue for The Village Butcher. I am excited by the opportunity for growth, and fulfilling the needs of the community as best I can.” Moreover, Chris energetically voices, “The Fire Hall Market is quickly gaining a new and exciting vibe; the new vendors are adding a refreshed look. I’m excited about the current and new vendors providing a variety of options. As the Market grows and vendors with similar mindsets come into the building, I think we can build a one-stop destination for the residents of Port Stanley and Elgin County.” Throughout the winter season, The Village Butcher operates on Monday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm -- closed Tuesday.
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • Page 3
The Port Stanley Sailors: Teddy Bear Toss & Autism Awareness by Peri Hayes Jess Reeves delightedly discusses the Port Stanley Sailors’ upcoming Teddy Bear Toss, as well as their Autism Awareness Night. As ‘front-facing management’, Jess’ responsibilities entail Director of Hockey Operations and Media Marketing. Dedicated to this team for five years, Jess expresses her excitement for these highly anticipated community events. The Teddy Bear Toss is a beloved annual game, which the Sailors have been participating in for over a decade. “We work with the community to give back to the community,” Jess describes. On December 6th at 7:30 pm, the Port Stanley Sailors and Petrolia Flyers will bring their A-game to the ice. Those in attendance are invited to bring teddy bears to toss onto the ice upon the Sailors’ first goal of the game. In 2024, Jess reports that 300 teddy bears were gathered and put toward a meaningful cause. The Port Stanley minor hockey players are their designated ‘Teddy Skaters’, retrieving each teddy bear following the grand toss. Thereafter, the Sailors deliver these donations to Christmas Care. “The boys get excited about it too,” Jess highlights. “This brings the community together. The players, including minor hockey players, will place guesses on who they suspect will score. This is a huge moment, and the game is remembered.” Jess shares their hope to continue growing this event. Previously, the Sailors’ Teddy Bear Toss has supported the Indigenous community, the local Food Bank, and now, their continuing partnership with Christmas Care. With the requirement that these teddy bears be new, various designs and sizes are warmly welcomed and greatly appreciated.
Then on December 27th, same time, the Sailors will play the Aylmer Spitfires in Game Four of Six in the exciting ‘Battle of Elgin’. During their Autism Awareness Night, the National Anthem will be sung by esteemed performer, Matt Saddler. As Jess reveals with honour, “Visiting from Grimsby, we are one of the only teams that Matt will be making a third appearance with. Matt travels to arenas in our league and others’, raising awareness for autism and sharing his talent of having perfect pitch.” The funds raised through Autism Awareness Night will be directed toward Our Place Respite. Tickets will be available at the door for the following prices: children 13 and under are free, student tickets — including postsecondary — cost $5.00, senior tickets are $8.00, and adults, $10.00. With inquiries about these upcoming events, kindly email Jess at jhrmediacontact@gmail.com, or through the Sailors’ social media platforms. “We are grateful for how our community supports us,” Jess graciously concludes.
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Our amazing local vendors are here for all of your holiday needs! Merry Christmas
218 Joseph St, Port Stanley Winter Hours: Open six days a week 10am to 5pm (closed Wednesday). Some vendors have extended hours. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • December 2025
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As 2025 draws to a close, the Municipality of Central Elgin reflects on a year of meaningful progress — enhancing services, supporting community well-being, and strengthening safety — while continuing to modernize operations in preparation for the growth and opportunities ahead in 2026.
HHo lai pd pa yy s ! On behalf of Municipal Council and Staff, we extend our warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season and a bright year ahead for all in our community. Visit centralelgin.org to see services and programs available over the holidays, and find tips for making the most of your winter break.
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • Page 5
Looking Back on a Transformational Year and Ahead to a Bright Future A Year-End Message from Mayor Andrew Sloan, Municipality of Central Elgin As we approach the end of 2025, I want to take this opportunity to reflect on what has been a transformational year for the Municipality of Central Elgin—and to share a glimpse of what lies ahead in 2026. Over the past year, Council and staff have focused on enhancing services and programs while improving safety, accessibility, and community well-being. At the same time, we have continued modernizing operations to prepare for the growth and opportunities that will shape Central Elgin’s future. One of the greatest privileges of serving as Mayor is connecting directly with residents. In 2025, I attended Town Halls in Port Stanley, Belmont, and Lynhurst, met with local service clubs, and hosted monthly Mayor’s Office Hours. These conversations are central to how I approach public service, helping guide decisions that reflect our community’s priorities and values. A significant project shaping our future is the redevelopment of the former Psychiatric Hospital lands. In May, Council approved a Vision and Guiding Principles to guide long-term planning for this site. Building on that foundation, the public was invited to review and comment on the Draft Policy Directions and Land Use Plan. Thank you to all who participated. This transformative project presents a rare opportunity to create a vibrant mixed-use community. Our focus remains on building a sustainable area where people can live, work, and enjoy an exceptional quality of life. Public engagement will continue to
play a vital role as we refine the Policy Directions and move toward an Official Plan Amendment in 2026. Across Central Elgin, we made significant progress on numerous projects. The 2025 Municipal Budget maintained a zero percent tax increase while investing $15.3 million in 58 capital projects, including road and bridge repairs, park upgrades, sidewalk improvements, and enhancements to recreation facilities. Council also strengthened service delivery and modernized planning. A key milestone was bringing Planning Services in-house, improving efficiency and aligning decisions with community priorities. Updates to Development Service Rates and Fees ensure costs are covered while maintaining the high standard of planning services our residents expect.
There is no place like home for the holidays!
291 Colborne St., Port Stanley www.foodland.ca
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Accessibility and safety remained top priorities in 2025. In partnership with the Port Stanley Village Association, a Mobility Mat was installed at Little Beach, making it easier for individuals using wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers to access the shoreline. This project was made possible through the PSVA’s efforts and funding from the Province’s Inclusive Community Grants Program. We launched the Lifejacket Loaner Program at Main Beach, offering free access to lifejackets. Supported by the Elgin County Drowning Prevention Coalition and the Lifesaving Society Ontario, this initiative reflects our shared commitment to community safety. To support neighbourhood well-being, Council approved a Short-Term Rental Accommodations By-Law, developed with resident input. It ensures properties meet safety and property maintenance standards. The By-Law comes into effect on January 1, 2026, and applications are now being accepted. To kick off the summer season, we hosted the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce “Business After 5” event at Riva Italian Restaurant, highlighting the strength of our local business community. Central Elgin businesses continue to be recognized regionally and nationally. At the Chamber’s 2025 Impact Awards, Sparta Lavender Farm was recognized in the Champions of the Earth category, Janis Harris of Harris Flower Farm earned the Inspirational Women award. Recently, Pepper Tree Spice Co. was named the exclusive spice provider for MasterChef Canada Season 8. I also want to recognize the volunteers, service clubs, and community groups who give their time and energy to make Central Elgin a wonderful place to live. The Community Grant
and Sponsorship Program, launched as a 2025 pilot initiative, provided over $26,000 in funding and in-kind support to local organizations, strengthening social, cultural, and economic connections across the municipality. Council approved extended hours for the Port Stanley Visitor Centre public washrooms, now open year-round from 8 am. to 9 pm, offering improved access for residents and visitors. Behind these achievements is the dedication of our municipal staff, who deliver outstanding service every day. Their service to the community is at the heart of Central Elgin’s success. Looking ahead, our commitment remains clear: to build a responsive, future-ready municipality that meets the evolving needs of residents, businesses, and visitors. Early in the new year, the 2026 Municipal Budget will be released for public review. Work is underway on a Community Services Master Plan, guiding the future of our parks, trails, recreational spaces, and programs. We are excited for the opening of the new elementary school in Belmont, a milestone for students, families, and the broader community. Finally, 2026 is a municipal election year, and I encourage all residents to stay informed and get involved in shaping the future of Central Elgin. It is an honour to serve as your Mayor. I am always happy to meet with residents and businesses, listen to your ideas, and help move them forward. I can be reached at asloan@centralelgin.org. On behalf of Council and municipal staff, I wish all residents a joyful holiday season and a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year.
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • Page 7
Pepper Tree Spice Co., MasterChef Canada by Peri Hayes Debbie Kussmann, Founder and CEO of Pepper Tree Spice Co., describes what inspired her to launch this business: “Pepper Tree Spice Co. was born out of my lifelong love for food, travel and authentic flavour. I started the company to make premium, all-natural spices accessible to everyone — with ingredients that inspire creativity and elevate even the simplest meals. What continues to motivate me is seeing people fall in love with cooking again, knowing they’re using pure, additive-free blends that reflect both craftsmanship and care. Sharing that spark of discovery is what keeps me passionate every day.” In exciting news, Pepper Tree Spice Co. has become the official spice provider for MasterChef Canada , Season 8. Debbie details how this milestone came to be: “We were approached by the MasterChef Canada team because of our reputation for small-batch, clean-label spice blends and our commitment to quality. It was an incredible honour to be selected as the official spice provider for Season 8 — a true validation of years of dedication, innovation and community support. This partnership showcased our brand on a national stage, and connected us with chefs and food enthusiasts across the country who value authenticity and flavour.” Asked what excites Debbie about this celebratory achievement, she thoughtfully responds, “Seeing our spices featured on MasterChef Canada is incredibly rewarding. This highlights Canadian craftsmanship, celebrates small business and reminds me how far we’ve come from our early days at the Western Fair Market. It’s thrilling to know that our products — handcrafted More than 62,000 patients depend on our each year. Emergency Department
right here in Ontario — are now part of the culinary stories of so many talented chefs and home cooks nationwide.” Pepper Tree Spice Co. has grown significantly since inception. Presently, there are three brick-and-mortar locations, being their flagship store in Port Stanley, their boutique in St. Thomas and their newest establishment in Bayfield. The latter officially opened in the spring of this year, which Debbie describes as a
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natural evolution of their brand: “A coastal-inspired destination that embodies the Pepper Tree experience: gourmet, ap- proachable and full of warmth. Each location has its own personality, but they all share the same heart — to inspire connection through flavour, and make cooking something people truly look forward to.” As Debbie proceeds, “We also maintain our roots with our original stall at the Western Fair Farmers’ Market in London. Beyond that, our Spice Box — a mobile boutique pop-up shop — travels throughout Southern Ontario to markets, festivals and culinary events, bringing our passion for flavour directly to communities near and far.” With inquiries about Pepper Tree Spice Co, visit the peppertreespice.com website, explore their Facebook and Instagram page, or kindly direct an email to info@peppertreespice.com.
“We’re proudly celebrating 15 years in business,” Debbie graciously concludes, “I couldn’t be more grateful for the team, customers and communities that have supported our journey. We continue to grow — from our curated gourmet gift collections to our Pepper Tree Supper Club cooking classes — and we’re preparing to launch The Accidental Supper Club, a lifestyle cookbook that captures the flavours, stories and sense of togetherness that started it all.”
Happy Holidays
From our family to yours Happy Holidays!
Self Serve Still Open
Kettle Creek Swans
5680 Sunset Rd (on the way to Port Stanley) www.debackerefarmmarket.ca
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Serving our community for over 55 years For more information contact Emily Finch, President 519-769-2514 New members are always welcome www.portstanleyoptimists.ca
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • Page 9
2025 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide
by Peri Hayes
been making the molds for a grand selection of keychains with matching detailing. Her seasonal collection includes cardinals, Frosty the Snowman, ice skates and much more. Furthermore, Gina has prepared her Grinch and Snoopy-themed keychains in every letter of the alphabet. This space is filled with a magnificent stocking stuffer selection, while year-round options are also accessible. gathered Art Gallery Robinson, has been diligently designing these incredibly unique floral decorations and book covers. While these ornaments are sure to add an element of whimsy to any space, the dainty soft covers also come equipped with an empty-paged book. Available in an array of colours, consider Heather’s hand- stitched bouquets an inspiring gift for the doodlers, list makers and note takers in your life. I.D.A. – Highland Drug Mart Located in the heart of Sparta is gathered, an art collective showcasing local works. Joseph Sawicki’s business and life partner, Heather
Art Emporium From Manitoulin Island, Anong Migwans Beam of Beam Paints creates captivating watercolour paintstones with intention, while
honouring her Indigenous roots. These breathtaking pigments have been provided to Bea Peraza’s local Art Emporium gift shop. Options include a selection of wooden palettes equipped with paint, as well as individual portions and refillables. Celebrating this plastic-free design, Beam Paints’ packaging contains beeswax, cotton, kraft paper and reclaimed wood. Supporting this Canadian entrepreneur can fuel your own creative endeavours or be passed on to the artist(s) you admire. Drift serving platters are presently available in an array of eye- catching hues. Moreover, these display trays effectively double as cutting boards on the opposite side. Coated in epoxy, the exquisite colours glisten in the light -- with the blue portraying an image of water for those longing to bring the lakeside ambiance into your home. Forever Festive Decor & Gifts Gina Ball of Forever Festive Decor & Gifts has been operating her business by the harbour for just over a year, expressing with enthusiasm, “This has been a dream of mine.” Gina has Open daily throughout December, Lisa and Michael Fairweather’s Drift features brilliant nautical pieces. In particular, Michael’s
For brightening your winter world, visit the Port Stanley I.D.A. – Highland Drug Mart. Explore your choice of cozy knitwear in a vibrant variation of colour. Their winter
gear in this particular style includes hats, mittens and scarves, which can be found in shades of green, pink, purple and more. These tie-dye pieces can be purchased separately or sourced as a groovy matching set. As their in-store items are priced $24.00
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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • December 2025
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2025 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide
and below, journey through the local I.D.A. to peruse their holiday goodies this season. Joshua & Company
businesses,” Ann Stevens of Little Beach Shop proudly voices. Being phthalate-free and paraben-free, these candles — offered in seasonal fragrances — are safe for your loved ones and your furry companions. Additionally, each candle is paired with a Port Stanley, Ontario sticker as a special memento. Pepper Tree Spice Co. the traditional flavour is comparable to that of a fruitcake. Furthermore, the choices which they carry include pistachio, tiramisu and more. There are personal, or family-share size servings. While exclusively in-store for the holidays, Pepper Tree Spice Co. brings in a limited quantity -- which are preciously packaged for awaiting upcoming festivities from underneath your tree. Port Stanley Festival Theatre A Port Stanley Festival Theatre gift certificate leads to an immersive afternoon or evening filled with drama, music, laughter and lakeside charm. Whether purchased for a long-time theatre lover or for someone entering the magical world of Presently at the Port Stanley Pepper Tree Spice Co. is Panettone, a cherished Italian Christmas cake. As a sweet bread, production, a gift certificate allows the recipient to select the show of their interest. A thoughtful gift today and a memorable experience to look forward to, visit the psft.ca website or phone
This 23-inch standing moose man vibrantly sports a charming green fur jacket paired with trousers, adding a festive touch to any room. Meanwhile, the elegant female’s attire entails
her cozy coat, delicate pearl necklace, gorgeous green dress and matching seasonal scarf. For adding a playful element to your holiday presentation, visit Joshua & Company -- operating on a daily basis from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. Lake House Books celebrated Canadian author shares her first memoir, diving deeper into her personal story. Margaret is supportive of independent busi- ness, providing copies — a limited number of which are signed — to Rachael Lake’s establishment. Open Wednesday through Sunday, consider Margaret’s latest release for the avid reader(s) in your life. Little Beach Shop Margaret Atwood’s Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts has been released, and is excitingly available at the local Lake House Books. This
Forest City Candle Co. is a proud female- led business, committed to sustainability and sourcing Canadian ingredients. “We feel it’s important to collaborate with other small
519-782-4353 for further information. Enjoy the magic of the season, feel it, believe it, embrace it!
Our Showroom is in the heart of Downtown St. Thomas, just a few steps from City Hall. Contact us for ANY of your Home Renovation needs, we do it all! Visit our Showroom just steps away from City Hall! Contact us for ANY of your Home Renovation needs! Wishing Everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! v e r Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
To the community that we love, Merry Christmas from the Port Stanley Lions
559 Talbot Street, St. Thomas Visit our showroom in the heart of Downtown St. Thomas. From kitchens to full-home renovations, we do it all. Contact us today and let’s bring your vision to life! 519-207-4424 www.ickitchens.ca
559 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
519-207-4424
www.ickitchens.ca
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • Page 11
2025 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide
season, with the mesh fabrication and hand-stitched detailing creating a sense of modern elegance. The Edible Journey
Sparta Country Candles Located at 46361 Sparta Line is Sparta Country Candles’ abundant selection of Charity Candles. Enjoy their classic and pet-
Not only is your belly fed at The Edible Journey, your skin can be too! For years, Ellen Lacroix has been preparing her own
friendly Spartaberry Fragrance in your home. Available while supplies last, the full proceeds before tax are directed toward the St. Thomas Elgin Food Bank. Open seven days a week, do not miss this wonderful opportunity to support an important and local cause. Sparta Lavender Farm aroma restores a sense of peace and comfort, while refreshing carpets, linens, pet beds and even stored items. As well, applying a light mist to your pillow before bed supports unwinding and easing into restful sleep. This product — packaged in a reusable glass bottle — is simple, sustainable and beautifully natural. Sparta Lavender Farm is now located at 46342 Sparta Line. Studio Style Visit Kim Ariesen’s welcoming boutique for your choice of gorgeous blouses, including this timeless black and white piece. About Alison Sheri’s collection, Kim enthuses, “I love this company; she does a great job.” This sophisticated top is versatile for layering throughout the winter Wrap yourself in the soothing scent of Lavender with Sparta Lavender Farm’s all- natural Pillow & Room Spray. This calming
Happy Holidays from the staff at the Port Stanley Library delectable flavours -- including organic and decaffeinated options. Serving the community at the Horton Farmers’ Market for several years, Jon and Martha Fuller have recently launched their coffee shop at Reed’s Records in St. Thomas with definite delight -- operating on Saturdays from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. While their blends can be personalized, an abundant range is available at Briwood Farm Market Inc. and Foodland Port Stanley. Jon expresses their appreciation for the local support. lip repair and hand salve -- available in generous and sample sizes. Made with organic ingredients — including Canadian beeswax — Ellen beams, “This is essentially food for your skin.” These products are sold separately, or can be purchased in a bundle. To order their Wellness Care Package with some of these products featured, phone Ellen at The Edible Journey and celebrate the gift of health: 519-614-3266. Union General Coffee Company Co. With beans sourced from Brazil, Colum- bia, Ethiopia, Guatemala and Honduras, ex-plore Union General Coffee Co.’s
Your Local Choice. Rooted in your Community Since 1881.
Christmas Holiday Hours: Open December 23 until 1pm Closed December 24 to January 1 Open January 2 at 9:30am Our Regular Hours are: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 9:30 am – 7 pm
Fridays 9:30 am – 5 pm Saturdays 9 am – 1 pm
Port Stanley Library 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley (519) 782-4241 www.elgincounty.ca/library
After a Hard Days Work
Port Stanley Villager
Geoffrey Rae, Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177
Looking for gift ideas? Gift cards from Barnacles are the gift everyone loves!
Kick back, raise a glass, and enjoy the season. Merry Christmas from your friends at Barnacles Beerhouse & Eatery!
All articles written by Geoffrey Rae unless otherwise indicated. Writer – Peri Hayes • Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher – Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Copyright @ 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 .
170 Williams Street, Port Stanley (519) 782-7272
Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • December 2025
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Embracing Tradition: Port Stanley’s Magical Holiday Celebrations by Marna Berry, Travel
• PS Festival Theatre presents Elton John Christmas: Celebrate the joy of the holidays with Ed Greene’s ‘Sir Elton’s Greatest’ tribute — a night of festive music and unforgettable spirit! • Ringing in the Magic of Christmas Eve We all love a tradition that makes us feel connected. This year, I encourage everyone to join the global ‘Christmas Eve Jingle’, right here in our community. At 6 pm sharp on Christmas Eve, we gather outside, bells in hand, for two minutes of joyful ringing. This simple, collective act spreads Christmas cheer across the village and is said to help Santa on his way. It’s a magical moment that unites us all, creating cherished memories for both the young and the young at heart. • Christ Anglican Church opens its doors for you to ring their magnificent, historic 400-pound bell, which has been echoing through the village since 1854. Stay afterward for a heartwarming Christmas Carols Sing Along at 7 pm, followed by a serene Candlelight Christmas Eve service at 7:30 pm. • The Optimist Club’s ‘Angel Tree’ at the Port Stanley Library offers a touching way to remember loved ones with a special remembrance service to honour their memory. The season is, most importantly, a time for giving back to the community we love. Please consider supporting the Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard to help local families enjoy a brighter Christmas. As you plan your holiday shopping and dining, please remember to shop and dine locally, supporting the dedicated businesses that are the true heartbeat of Port Stanley. May this holiday season fill your hearts with joy, your homes with warmth, and your lives with laughter. RE-ELECT BOOK YOUR COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH AND TOUR TODAY
Consultant & Experiential Guid e As the festive season sweeps in, we find ourselves reflecting on what makes Christmas truly special. For me, a local fisherman’s daughter, the holidays in Port are a unique blend of coastal calm and vibrant, community-driven cheer. What traditions come to mind that truly ignite the spirit for you? In Port, our holiday spirit is alive with local customs that invite everyone, from new residents to multi-generational families, to join in the celebration. As we all begin stringing up our lights, the village becomes a picturesque winter wonderland, made even more spectacular thanks to the stunning Christmas Lights Display at 291 Selbourne Drive. This dazzling spectacle is more than just a beautiful show; it’s a beacon of local charity supporting the Make A Wish Foundation and The Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard, lighting up the night and our hearts with a reminder of what the season is truly about. The excitement starts early in December with events for all ages: • Santa Treats Train Rides: This festive favourite runs on weekends throughout December. • The Ugly Christmas Sweater Holly Hop: For those who dare to be festive and flashy, Friday, December 5th
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • 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
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May all that is beautiful, meaningful and brings you joy be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year! Merry Christmas from the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley. Dine with us. Stay with us. Wishing our guests & neighbours a Happy Holiday Season! Wishing our guests & neighbours a Happy Holiday Season Dine with us. Stay with us. Elgin’s Premier Farm to Table Experience 519-782 4173 • www.thewindjammerinn.com • 324 Smith St., Port Stanley Elgin’s Premiere Farm to Table Experience Phone: 519-782-4173 324 Smith St., Port Stanley www.thewindjammerinn.com Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
Happy Holidays! Wishing you a joyful Christmas filled with warmth and wonder. Thank you for your 2025 support. We can’t wait to share more stories in the New Year! PortStanley FestivalTheatre 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • December 2025
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
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 - 6:30 pm. Join us for a story, games, and a craft. Grades 1 and up, JK/ SK with a caregiver. Monday December 1st, 2025 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 & welcoming new members. Just show up! More info at portstanleyartguild.com. Monday December 8th, 2025 Card Making Port Stanley Library, 1 pm - 3 pm Create handmade cards with Jean. Cost: $10 Friday December 12th, 2025 Christmas Craft Port Stanley Library, 1 pm Cost $8. Registration required at 519-782-4241. Thursday December 18th, 2025 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm We will discuss, When We Meet Again by Kristin Harmel. Everybody welcome. Tuesday December 23rd, 2025 Christmas Open House Port Stanley Library, 10 am – 12 pm Join us for some refreshments.
Port Stanley Villager
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.
May the Christmas Season Bring you Peace and Joy.
Williams Funeral Home Ltd. 45 Elgin Street, St. Thomas, ON 519-631-0850 williamsfuneralhomeltd.com
The Hughson Family & Staff at Williams Funeral Home
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2025 • 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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