Port Stanley Villager July:Aug 2025

Port Stanley Villager July-August 2025 Issue 70

Letter from the Editor Summer in a tourist town is like a family reunion; you don’t always know who’s coming or how long they’ll stay, but it’s best to greet them with a smile and maybe point them toward the best perch in town. As the summer season heats up, so too does the flow of visitors to our beautiful lakeside community.

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Whether they’re here for the beach, the boutiques, to see a play, or just to wander with a fresh waffle cone of ice cream in hand, let’s remember how important these out-of-towners are to our local businesses. A warm welcome can go a long way and even maybe bring them back again next year (hopefully with a few friends in tow). Now, while we’re on the topic of visitors, let’s have a little chat about one of Lake Erie’s less charming habits: the undertow. As inviting as our sparkling shoreline looks on a sunny day, Lake Erie can be unpredictable. Undertow currents are strong and sneaky, and they don’t discriminate. Even the strongest swimmer can be caught off guard. If you’re heading into the water, stay close to shore, keep an eye on children at all times, and always check for beach warnings before diving in. A few quick safety tips: never swim alone, stay within designated swim zones, and don’t overestimate your abilities. If you do find yourself caught in a current, try not to panic — swim parallel to the shore until you’re free of the pull, then head back in. And if you’re enjoying the water with kids, make sure they’re wearing life jackets, not just floaties. Safety may not be as fun as splash fights, but it’s the key to making summer memories for the right reasons. Of course, not all summer fun involves sand in your shoes. We’ve got a full calendar of community festivals and fairs to look forward to – and trust me – you’ll want to mark these down. Nostalgia Nights in St. Thomas kicks things off on July 12, followed by the always popular CALIPSO Festival right here in Port Stanley from August 2 to 5. Then it’s fair season! The Aylmer Fair runs August 8 to 10; the Rodney Fair is on September 12 to 14; the Wallacetown Fair follows from September 26 to 28, and the Dorchester Fall Fair rounds out the season from October 10 to 13. Have a safe, sunny, and joy-filled summer. And don’t forget, there is no August issue of the Port Stanley Villager. We’ll be back with more local stories and events in September.

LIARS AT A FUNERAL By Sophia Fabiilli

One family. One funeral. And way too many secrets! July 16 to August 2

THE KITCHEN WITCHES

By Caroline Smith

Two saucy chefs. One kitchen. Arch enemies. It’s spicy! August 6 to August 23

goldfish By Steve Ross

Unlikely friends... with unforgettable conversation. August 27 to September 13

Port Stanley Villager July-August 2025 cover Celebrating the new mobility mats on Little Beach in Port Stanley. Left to right: Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, MPP Rob Flack, Mayor of Central Elgin, Andrew Sloan, along with Kathleen Devine and Barb Davis.

“The Kitchen Witches” is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com

519-782-4353 www.psft.ca RESERVE YOUR SEATS

Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025

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Celebrate Summer the Kokomo Way at KokoFest KokoFest is more than just a summer festival — it’s a celebration of community spirit, local businesses, and the vibrant lifestyle at Kokomo Beach Club in Port Stanley. Set for Friday, July 26 from noon to 9 pm, the inaugural KokoFest invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy a full day of music, food, games, markets, and more. The idea for the event started modestly, born from a backyard party held by Kokomo residents Al Mills and Joey Read. “We had a summer party last year, and it was big — almost too big for the backyard,” recalls Joey. “So we joked that next year we’d have to move it to the street. That idea just kept growing.” Now, with help from fellow Kokomo residents and Lifestyle Coordinator, Zuda Faruzel, that idea has become a full-blown festival. Zuda has organized several successful markets in the past and has brought her expertise to KokoFest’s vendor market, which will feature booths from businesses like The Chique Shack, and Candy Gram, etc.. “It’s important to include the businesses as well,” says Zuda. “Not just Kokomo, but the whole Port Stanley community.” Live music will add energy to the day, with local band, The Knuckleheads taking the stage around 6 pm. A second, softer musical act is also in the works for the afternoon. Food trucks, a dunk tank, face painting, kids’ games, and sweet treats like candy floss round out the family-friendly activities. The event is free to attend, with vendor fees helping cover costs such as insurance and entertainment. Kokomo Beach Club has generously donated the space, and road closures have been arranged to accommodate the festivities. “We’re a new community,” says Al. “But we represent vibrancy, positivity, and a laid-back lifestyle. Port Stanley is all about festivals and celebrations, so this fits right in.” For residents, KokoFest is also a way to meet new neighbours and welcome others to experience what makes Kokomo special. “Some people might even fall in love with Kokomo and want to move here,” Joey adds. Zuda hopes KokoFest becomes an annual tradition. “We have so many people just driving by who don’t even know this place exists,” she says. “This is a chance to bring everyone together and show what this community is all about.”

Kokomo residents Al Mills and Joey Read welcome you to KokoFest July 26th.

Whether you’re a Kokomo resident or just curious about the buzz, KokoFest promises a day of fun, music, and community connection — Port Stanley style.

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025 • Page 3

Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events 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. Thursday July 3rd, 2025 Spanish for Kids – SRC 2025 Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Hola! Join us for a Spanish lesson with Bea from Pura Vida. Registration is required. Tuesday July 8th, 2025 Paint Like the French – SRC 2025. Port Stanley Library, 1 am Come and be like the French and create your own masterpiece! All materials are supplied. Registration is required. Thursday July 10th, 2025 Artist Meet Up. Port Stanley Library, 1 pm – 3 pm Meet other artists. Everyone will be working on their own projects. Bring your project and the materials that you need. Tuesday July 15th, 2025 Reptiles from the Amazon & Beyond – SRC 2025 Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Our visit from Southwest Pet is going to be filled with interesting critters you can learn about and touch. Thank you Kettle Creek Swans for sponsoring this program! Registration is required.

Sunday July 20th & August 24th, 2025 Sunset Vintage Markets 10 am to 4 pm. Union Sports and Community Centre Tuesday July 22nd, 2025 Beginner Drumming – SRC 2025 Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Drummer Paul will teach you how to play drums. Registration is required. Saturday July 26th & August 30th, 2025 Summertime Markets 10 am to 3 pm. Union Sports and Community Centre Tuesday July 29th, 2025 Karate! – SRC 2025 Port Stanley Library, 1 pm. Join Holly from Bernardo Karate for a Karate demonstration. Registration is required. Sunday, August 17th, 2025 Family Fun Fair Union Sports and Community Centre, 11 am – 3 pm 2nd Annual fundraiser and BBQ in support of the Community Centre. Tickets are $10 and include a hot dog, chips, water and a freezie. Games, bouncy castles, and a dog show from 12 pm – 2 pm. Please do not bring your pets. Port Stanley Library is located at 302 Bridge St., Port Stanley Union Sports and Community Centre is located at 46272 Sparta Line, 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.

Port Stanley Villager

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Councillor’s Corner by Councillor Morgaine Griffin

Municipal Accommodation Tax can offset the costs that tourism places on full-time residents, funding services like beach washrooms. This approach can be especially desirable for locals outside the tourist hot zone (like mine in Ward 2!), who may not like paying taxes to support services they use less frequently. Some municipalities license but don’t tax. Others tax but don’t limit licenses. Some do both, some do neither. Each choice shapes a place’s character. What I hope for most is that we, as neighbours, reflect together on what kind of Port Stanley we want to build. Do we want to prioritize tourism revenue or stable housing? Do we want to encourage flexible property use, or protect long-term neighbourhood dynamics? Your voice matters. Let’s keep speaking with one another — with neighbours and with the Council. The path forward is best when it reflects our shared values.

This past month, our community’s hot topic has been short- term rentals and what path fits Port Stanley. As the Council considers how to regulate them, I want to offer a few thoughts on different approaches and on what they can achieve. Licensing short-term rentals can improve safety: requiring that properties meet fire and building codes and that bylaw enforcement has someone they can reach about complaints. Licenses can be limited or unlimited in number. Some communities cap the number of licenses to protect housing supply and affordability for locals. But every restriction also has a cost: fewer tourists might mean fewer dollars for local shops, restaurants, and events.

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PSFT Presents ‘The Kitchen Witches’ by Peri Hayes Liz Gilroy, Artistic Director of Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT) and Director of Caroline Smith’s The Kitchen Witches , details her interpretation of this work: “I have always thought this script was so, very funny and that with the right cast, the actors do most of the job for you. Other than some creative blocking with the ‘live cooking’ and trying to foolproof the audience participation section, it is pretty straightforward. We’ve made sure to add some local references — which Caroline allows the Director to do — that the audience is bound to enjoy. I’ve also been working on choosing the music, which sets the tone and helps put us in the right frame of mind for watching the show -- an integral part of any production.” Playwright, Caroline Smith, introduces, “Isobel Lomax and Dolly Biddle are two ‘mature’ cable-access cooking show hostesses who have hated each other for 30 years, ever since Stephen Biddle dated one and married the other. When circumstances put them together on a TV show called The Kitchen Witches , the insults are flung harder than the food!” The message of this story surrounds relationships, grudges and forgiveness. “And food -- lots and lots of food,” Caroline proceeds. “Being careful not to confuse the sugar and the salt, and always washing your hands.” This play features a cast of three, along with their ‘camera person’. Liz highlights, “Working with a small cast gives us time for discovery on an intimate level; to develop relationships with each cast member.” Asked what excites Liz about presenting this production at PSFT, she responds, “I can’t wait for our audiences to see this show. It really is funny, and I think it will be an unforgettable couple of hours in the theatre. I am also super excited to have Monique Lund and Christina Gordon on stage

together; two incredibly talented women who will play off of each other beautifully. Our audience becomes the live audience for the cooking show. It is pretty spicy to have the audience be an integral part of the show, and it always creates an ‘Anything can happen!’ element.” “ The Kitchen Witches was inspired by and written for Diane Fabian and Barbara Wheeldon, two delightful comediennes who also happened to be close friends,” Caroline describes to be the inspiration for this narrative. “It premiered at the Stirling Festival Theatre in June, 2003 and was submitted to publisher Samuel French shortly after winning the Best Canadian Play Award. It has been in production in Canada and the U.S. ever since, also enjoying productions as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Turkey and the Czech Republic. Everyone enjoys watching chaos in the kitchen!” Regarding the upcoming Port Stanley performances, Caroline enthuses, “It’s terrific to know that my little play is in the hands of such lovely people, especially the amazingly talented Liz Gilroy. I am quite sure Liz and her team will make the laughter rise to perfection, just like a fine souffle!” As Liz concludes, “If you are looking for two unforgettable hours of laugh-out-loud entertainment, you do not want to miss The Kitchen Witches -- it’s a ‘taste’ you can’t forget.” The Kitchen Witches is presented by arrange- ment with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc: concordtheatricals.com. Offered in the lakeside village from August 6th until August 23rd, tickets are available through the psft.ca website or by phoning their box office at 519-782-4353.

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Page 6 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025

her work being featured at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT), Sophia passionately voices, “I love that PSFT has a commitment to presenting plays written by Canadians. I think it is increasingly important, as Canadians, to tell our own stories and celebrate our local artists!” Moreover, Sophia emphasizes the ways in which this venue is full of energy and life. Julie enthusiastically details what drew her involvement to this production: “I love a lot of things about this play: the sharp, snappy writing; the strong female characters; the heart of the show; the wacky humour -- it’s a fun and funny show with a really great message, and I’m pumped to direct Sophia’s work! Support Canadian female writers, more of this please.” As Sophia offers, “After the long wait for the premiere, I’m thrilled that the show is being picked up across the country. So far, it has had productions at Magnus Theatre, Thousand Islands Playhouse, Western Canada Theatre and Alberta Theatre Projects -- with upcoming productions at Drayton and Prairie Theatre Exchange.” There are five characters in this show, to which Julie highlights, “I usually direct musicals with casts of 15 to 20 actors, so this is a luxurious treat. I am looking forward to the intimate conversations and collaboration with the actors, and working out the physical comedy of the show.” Julie further expresses her excitement to spend time in the lakeside village this summer for her debut in this vibrant space, as well as for the audience to engage with this witty storyline. Liars at a Funeral will be showcased in Port Stanley from July 16th until August 2nd. Further information and ticket purchase for this production is available through the PSFT website at psft.ca.

PSFT Presents ‘Liars at a Funeral’ by Peri Hayes

Playwright Sophia Fabiilli in- troduces her play titled Liars at a Funeral: “Grandma Ma- vis fakes her own death in order to reunite members of her estranged family in a rural funeral, however, Mavis is not the only one with secrets.” To which, Di- rector Julie Tomaino pro- ceeds, “Hilarity ensues.” Sophia describes the inspi- ration for this narrative, shar- ing, “I love farce. In my ca- reer when I was an actor, I loved performing in them and I love attending them as an audience member. With that said, I’ve found a lot of farces don’t have

great roles for women, so I had hoped to change that. I call Liars at a Funeral a ‘feminist farce with heart.’ I started writing it in 2016, and it’s been a long journey. The show was supposed to premiere in 2020 at the Blyth Festival, but the Pandemic stalled the premiere for three years.” Regarding the intended message of this play, Sophia reveals, “You can’t heal without telling the truth.” Looking forward to

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Lisa Brandt’s ‘Pieces of Us – Felicity and Mitzi: Book One’ by Peri Hayes Pieces of Us — Felicity and Mitzi: Book One , self-published by Lisa Brandt’s Lisa Brandt Creative Services (LBCS) in April, symbolizes the author’s shift toward a fictional storyline. With her first book debuting in 2003, Lisa reflects, “Ever since high school, I thought about writing novels. Now is the time for me to do what I want, and I have spent my time writing.” Book One of this moving trilogy is dedicated to Lisa’s husband, Derek. “Everybody should be lucky enough to have someone who is delusionally supportive. He is a rock for me; the first to read anything that I write.” As Lisa also highlights, “The covers for all three novels were drawn by my late brother-in-law, Dave. He drew the covers for my nonfiction, and I found a theme of trees in these drawings which depict the growth of the family in this story. Dave is like nobody I’ve ever known. It’s very important to me to have his artwork represented.” Surrounding love, grief and childhood pain, this is a story which follows sisters on their respective paths. Lisa candidly reveals, “Well, it’s funny because I grew up with a brother. I love the idea of exploring sisters, and it was fun to get into their heads.” These siblings, Felicity and Mitzi, are portrayed as quite opposite: “I grew up in a world of what should have been, and have grown into how life is. To me, these are two fundamental dynamics in life -- representative of how I once was and who I am becoming. I intend for my work to be entertaining more than anything, and that people can identify with different parts of these character’s lives.” AD SAVE DIRECT RESPONSE MEDIA GROUP 240 Wyecroft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 1 866 993-0600 drmg.com

Readers will recognize a fascinating component, being Lisa’s decision to personify an inanimate object in this story. The local writer offers, “Our family used to name inanimate objects to make each other laugh. I got to thinking about this particular character experiencing light even in the midst of dark times, demonstrating that she has perspective in her life.” Lisa graciously voices about this process, “The first live review I got was five stars and I just about did a dance in my kitchen. This is something I’ve thought about for so long, and now it’s the realization of a goal. Once the book is out there, it’s not mine anymore. It’s very exciting, once the terror passes.”

As this multifaceted entrepre- neur proudly concludes, “My day job is a voice-over profes- fessional and a co-host with Erin Davis of the ‘Gracefully & Frankly’ podcast, which has been excelling with over 175,000 downloads.” Hard copies of Pieces of Us — Felicity and Mitzi: Book One are available at Lake House Books in Port Stanley, with further information on Lisa’s voiceoflisabrandt.com website. The second book of this series will be released this summer. OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH JAN FEB MAR JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

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Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025

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Rob Burns’ Retirement, Big Shoes to Fill by Peri Hayes For 35 years, Rob Burns has been the owner of Foodland Port Stanley. He began working at the age of 14 in Forest, Ontario as a part-time “stock boy”. At 18, Rob left his family home and was working at Knechtel Food Market during this time. He then relocated to Brights Grove for work in their newly opened store, which is when he met his beloved wife. On a company trip in Venezuela, Rob was introduced to Barry Fitzgerald and was thereafter contacted with an invitation to be a grocer at his Foodland establishment in the lakeside village. In response, Rob relocated with his wife and their first-born child. Through his incredible work ethic, Rob impressively became Barry’s business partner within one year. Dedicating himself to this seven-year term partnership, Rob transitioned to the Independent Owner who would flourish in this role. “I seized the opportunity to own a store. From the time that I was 16, this has been a goal of mine.” Asked about Rob’s favourite memory throughout his career, he confidently responds, “There’s so many. I have amazing staff and a wonderful customer base -- that’s what I’m going to miss. Some staff have been here for as long as I have, and longer! You get to know the families of this town, which not everyone has the pleasure of experiencing.” Rob considers the meaningful relationships which he has forged in this space to be one of the greatest accomplishments of his career: “I am a people-person and a community-driven business owner; I think this shows in how our team continues to support the community.” Rob highlights the ways in which former mentees have remained in touch over the years, carrying his mentorship forward in their lives. As Rob earnestly shares, the loss of his father in July of last year, followed by his wife’s passing in November has inspired this directional change for him. “Life is short, and life is fragile.” Having been a caretaker for years, Rob feels at peace presently taking care of himself -- to which he declares, “This is my focus.” Since 14, Rob has been a multifaceted musician. Playing bass, drums and guitar, he is currently involved with two Port Stanley- based bands known as R & R and Busted Roots; the latter being a four-piece heavy, Southern Rock band. Rob announces that Busted Roots will be performing at Thunder in the Valley this August.

Following his retirement on the horizon, Rob reveals that he will be spending time with his five children and four grandchildren. Moreover, he will continue immersing himself in his outdoor activities. “I am looking forward to learning about myself and exploring North America. I am blessed with an abundance of great friends across Ontario, both through the business and the bands.” With his last day having been on June 21st, Rob celebrated a “send-off” on the 14th; a chance for customers to join the esteemed business owner for cake, coffee and an official goodbye from his position -- though he will remain a proud and active member in this community. “Regarding my retirement,” Rob concludes, “I feel in my heart that this is right. It’s time. I am going out on a high, and this is important to me.”

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025 • Page 9

Elgin County Pride! by Peri Hayes Devon Church and Neil Hubert beam with joy while discussing Elgin County Pride. Devon, involved for over five years, and Neil having joined in 2023, detail the ways in which the St. Thomas-Elgin Rainbow Alliance brought Elgin County Pride to fruition alongside the formerly active and notably contributive Martin Withenshaw. Presently with four members in leadership, Neil describes, “We have a solid team, and we all want to own it. We are equals.” Neil’s participation was inspired by the non-profit organization’s Queer Prom. Their third execution of this event was recently celebrated and an evident success, with 65 students in attendance. Devon expresses, “These kids are going to remember this for the rest of their lives; some of them met their best friend that night.” Moreover, Mrs. Chastity Cage brought vibrancy into the venue with a captivating performance of Pink Pony Club . For their several years facilitating this event in partnership with YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, the team has collaborated with core volunteers and powerful allies. “This is a safe space in a secure location,” Neil highlights. “I want to create an event for these kids that we can hand to them. For ages 14 to 19, everyone is welcome.” “Representation is huge,” Devon voices. “We both grew up here and didn’t have these resources. I really get excited about creating this space for our youth.” To this, Neil adds, “It’s about celebrating diversity and fostering connection; when people come together and be who they want to be. We are celebrating chosen family.” The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario’s Rainbow Connections significantly contributes to the Queer Prom, as emphasized by Devon and Neil, along with Harvest Hands supplying their abundant door prizes. As well, Wellkin Child and Youth Mental Wellness beautifully curated their dedicated

zone for zen in the yoga room. While reflecting on the incredible support, Neil shares with tears in his eyes, “There was a lot of positive energy in the space. The parking lot was filled with parents picking up their children.” The team is currently seeking a Social Media Manager, which will be a beneficial position for a student collecting high school volunteer hours. Furthermore, upcoming this July 26th is Pride in the Park. Queer community members and allies are welcome to email elgincountypride@gmail.com for opportunities at this event involving food truck endeavours, performing, volunteering, or participating as a vendor at Char- lie’s Market. Queer Club is held at the YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin every Tuesday, alternating between ages 12 to 18 and the adult group. For information, visit the Elgin County Pride Facebook page and the elgincountypride.com/ website.

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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025

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YWCA’s Fourth Summer Night Social by Peri Hayes Melissa Kempf, Communications Office Manager at YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin, cheerfully presents: “The event for this year’s Summer Night Social has a Canadian-inspired theme, so we encourage guests to wear their red and white or Canadian tuxedo for their chance to win the Best Dressed EH-ward.” Facilitated in the cozy and enchanting setting of Wildflowers Farm, Melissa enthuses, “This is the perfect location for it.” As Melissa proceeds to detail, their Summer Social will entail the following: “We start off the night with live music on our main stage. Last year, we hosted The Sheridan Band and they are returning. After the first set, we invite guests to participate in a variety of nostalgic, outdoor games. We are adding a ‘Feed the Pigs’ Apple Toss -- a twist on a carnival game.” An array of these activities are included in the ticket price. of their fundraiser, Melissa shares, “Back by popular demand, we close the night with the Live Auction. Additionally, Adam Blair and Dan Stewart will perform during an old-fashioned campfire with a sing-along.” “We will have Salt & Pepper Meals prepare the food for the evening.” Moreover, their grazing bar will feature all Canadian snacks. Speaking of food, Melissa highlights, “Mayor Joe Preston is going to auction off a dinner for six, which he will make as ‘Chef’ in someone’s home.” “We are proud to have MASCO returning as our Legacy Sponsor.” Melissa is pleased to reflect that the YWCA has raised $33,000 toward their programs and services, “Which can’t be matched,” she conveys. “This event is an amazing contribution to our fiscal year. For the community, this is a platform to see the business and

how supportive they are in this town.” Regarding sponsorship, email YWCA’s Fund Development Coordinator, Sarah Lounsbury, at slounsbury@ywcaste.ca. The YWCA encourages guests to bring colleagues and friends. As Melissa expresses, “I would say the best part of the event is seeing everyone come together, whether it’s individuals, friends, family, business owners and co-workers -- just that human connection being rooted in fun. For the YWCA, it means so much to have a fundraising event of this magnitude.” Further, the Selfie Booth Company will be on-site for capturing the wholesome moments throughout the evening. This Summer Night Social will be fun-filled, rain or shine, on Thursday, August 14th from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Tickets for this 19+ event are available through the ywcaste.ca/ website until August 11th, with their 10-pack offer discounted at the price of nine. Looking forward to this continued celebration, Melissa assures that parking on the property will be free.

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025 • Page 11

Dive into Summer Fund at CALIPSO Festival 2025! by Marna Berry As the sun beams down and the gentle waves of Lake Erie caress the sandy shores, the vibrant village of Port Stanley is buzzing with anticipation for

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 Our favourites are back, with Captain Thom’s Bedlam’s Magic Show and CALIPSO Mermaids, enchanting visitors throughout the weekend. The event lineup is packed with captivating attractions: one of the most awaited events of the summer — the CALIPSO Festival. From August 2nd to 4th, the community spirit of Port Stanley will truly come to life, showcasing the unique charm and vibrant culture of our beloved village. This isn’t just any summer festival; it’s an invitation: Come And Live In Port Stanley Ontario! CALIPSO Festival offers a dual charm; it not only entertains but also highlights Port Stanley as the perfect local vacation spot or a dream home destination. Designed to attract those who cherish unique communities and diverse cultures, CALIPSO promises a weekend brimming with excitement and community engagement. With approval from the Central Elgin Council, this Civic Holiday weekend, we’re excited to bring back all the fan favourites from last year, along with a few new surprises. The heartwarming community engagement seen in the revival of this popular festival promises a bright future and a growing tradition. A Preview of Activities and Attractions

• Meet and snap a photo with the mystical CALIPSO Mermaids and enjoy Storytime with a Mermaid Princess. • Don’t miss the CALIPSO Boat Parade on Saturday at 1 pm. • The Canadian Bombshell Beauties will grace the Antique Car Shows on Friday and Monday. • Explore an array of exhibitors at the Marketplace on Saturday and Sunday on the Berm by Little Beach. • Indulge in a smorgasbord of local and exotic flavours served up by our local eateries and a convoy of food trucks. • Enjoy Boat Rides and Train Rides all weekend long. For the Family and the Fun-Loving The festival is a treasure trove of free, family-friendly activities: • The Kids Zone on Little Beach features Dotsy the Clown, Kiwanis Pirate Games & Prizes, Mermaids, Fire Department & OPP activities.

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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025

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And let’s not forget the incredible evenings • Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the village restaurants and patios with special deals under the banner of CALIPSO Specials. • The festival day on Sunday concludes with a bang — literally — with Fireworks On The Berm at dusk. • Win Prizes!! Engage in friendly competition in the CALIPSO Photography Contest or participate in the Decorated Busi- ness Contest. Community Involvement: The Heart of CALIPSO This festival is a reflection of our strong community spirit. Special thanks to all our volunteers, exhibitors, and sponsors for making this possible. Without the community’s sponsorship support, the festival would not be possible. Thanks to the support already received from Domus Development, Elgin County Tourism, Port Stanley Cottages, Realtor Dallas Posthumus, Kettle Creek Swans, Legends Of Lake Erie Boat Tours, St Thomas Self Storage, Stinson Family, Port Stanley Festival Theatre, GT’s On The Beach, Port Stanley Terminal Rail, Port Stanley Villager, Realtor & Port Stanley Dentistry. You still have time to be a sponsor. July 1st is the deadline to be included in the festival Itinerary. For the latest updates and details, be sure to follow our CALIPSO Festival Facebook Group and Instagram page. Look for our flyers and event maps, available from mid-July, throughout the village and at the Tourism Visitor Centre. This festival is more than just a celebration; it’s a community connector and a showcase of the vibrant life in Port Stanley. Join us to connect, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories. Let’s make this summer truly exceptional in Port Stanley!

• Kids can unleash their creativity in the Sandcastle Competition on Main Beach or compete in the Bicycle Competition and Treasure Hunt by Port Stanley Optimist Club. • Experience the thrill of the NEW Pirate Revenge Ship Carnival Ride.

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025 • Page 13

Kiwanis District Governor Visits Port Stanley by Colleen Gemmell, Past President of the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley On Thursday, June 12th, the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley was thrilled to welcome our Eastern Canada & Caribbean District Governor, Pamela Rodney-White, to Port Stanley. Governor Pam hails from Jamaica, and she was delighted to see the sun and the sand during a tour of our beautiful Village. During a visit to the berm to view the 200 Trees for 200 Years Project, we were joined by the Kettle Creek Public School E.C.O. Class. The students, along with their teacher, Mrs. Basson, discussed the importance of the 200 Trees Project, gave us a demonstration on the proper way to pull weeds, and led us on a tour of their work to date on the berm. We finished off the visit with a delicious lunch on the patio at Riva. While visiting the berm, the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley was happy to present the E.C.O. Class with a further $ 1,000 donation towards the 200 Trees Project.

Accompanying the Kettle Creek Public School E.C.O. Class Students are Club Founder Louise Macphee, E.C.&C. District Governor Pamela Rodney-White and Port Stanley Club President Debbie Button.

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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2025

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Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com All the sights and sounds signal that summer in Port is back in full swing! Soon, wildlife and wild life must co-exist in the great outdoors. Live entertainment in the evenings may ruffle a few feathers but the predawn cacophony of birdsongs

Port’s Main Beach has a continuous record of Blue Flag designation since 2010! No small deal, the international designation is recognition for meeting the highest standards of water quality, environmental management, safety and services. Moreover, just in time for summer, the Port Stanley Village Association rolled out the mobility mats on Little Beach! The mats create a steady and firm pathway across the sand, making access to the water possible for all individuals. The initiative was funded provincially by an Inclusive Community Grant.

Pepper Tree Another fond farewell… Miri and Richard Smith are closing Yogi Bakery on July 1 at the Firehall Market for their next adventure. Stock up now on fresh and frozen good eats! Thank you, Miri, for your daily fare. While the Excited States was protesting en masse on June 14, we commemorated the end of an era at PS Foodland. Rob Burns -- may you, Deb, Peg, Jan, and Mitch find purpose, cause, and fulfillment in your respective next big chapters; I’m sure we will continue to know you as good neighbours and friends. Thank you for your support of local service groups, most especially, the Community Cupboard. We look forward to being entertained by Busted Roots and R&R in your next chapter. is payback! What’s new? For early birds, GT’s is back with daily breakfast on deck at 8 am; KC Golf & CC offers breakfast on Sundays at 9 am and Monday to Saturday at 10 am; Sunday brunch at The Windjammer Inn, 9:30 am to 2 pm (reserva- tions recommended). Laura Gagnon was, as ever, noteworthy while belting out melodies on the verandah on June 13. Notes & Nibbles is a new offering that serves up a casual evening of music and finger foods. Check Face book and Instagram for Kim’s pop-up inspirations. Moore Water Gardens has announced that the fish are back! Tuesday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 4 pm, closed Sunday and Monday. Main St is making a comeback! La Tika Fashions opens on June 27 at Telegraph House, offering Joseph Ribkoff, natural fibre casuals, and menswear -- Sunday to Thursday, 10 am to 5 pm; Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm. There’s more… let’s welcome PS Gift Shop at 204 Main St (beside Nado) which carries unique handmade offerings from 60 vendors in SW Ontario! -- Sunday to Thursday, 10 am to 5 pm; Friday and Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm. Many thanks to the Optimist Club of Port Stanley for the generous donation of $750. to the Community Cupboard, made possible through Jackpot Time.

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COMING THIS SUMMER (JULY 2025) ( 211 Main Street Port Stanley Ontario Canada Everyday 10 am to 4 pm ) VETERANS’ ART GALLERY PRESENTS THE AFGHANISTAN EXHIBITION The Afghanistan Exhibition is a mobile and interactive exhibit that explores Canada’s military involvement in Afghanistan from 2001-2014. It features stories from the people who served and is designed to be accessible and impactful. The exhibit includes multimedia touchscreen stations, over 450 bilingual stories, a modular layout, and a reflection wall. Key Features: : Interactive and Immersive: The exhibit aims to provide an engaging and moving experience for visitors. Multimedia Stations:: Five multimedia touchscreen stations offer interactive elements and content. Bilingual Stories:: Over 450 stories from Canadian veterans are presented in both English and French. Modular Layout: : The exhibit’s design is adaptable to different gallery spaces, ensuring accessibility. Reflection and Remembrance: : A dedicated reflection wall and guestbook provide spaces for visitors to honor those who served. Historical Context:: The exhibit chronicles Canada’s longest war, covering the period from 2001 to 2014. Diverse Perspectives: : The stories shared in the exhibit represent a variety of experiences and perspectives from those who served.

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