Port Stanley Villager September 2024 Issue 61
Port Stanley Shines as Host for Ontario Summer Games Sailing Competition Port Stanley played host to a thrilling weekend of sailing as the Ontario Summer Games Sailing Competition took to the waters on August 2nd and 3rd, 2024. As part of the civic holiday festivities, which included CALIPSO celebrations, a 200th Anniversary Celebration, and a boat parade, the Port Stanley Sailing Squadron welcomed thirty-six competitive youth athletes from across Ontario for a series of six intense races. The competition held about a mile off Port Stanley’s Main Beach, saw participants racing in International 420 Dinghies. On the first day of sailing, the weather offered variable conditions, including choppy waters, rain, and diminishing winds. Despite these challenges, competitors successfully completed two races. On Saturday, they ran four more races under better weather conditions.
Photos courtesy of Bill Boswell @bbozpix
emerged victorious, narrowly defeating Nikola and Anna Powick from the Kingston Yacht Club. Jude Martel and Sophia Adams-Jang from the Ashbridges Bay Yacht Club claimed the bronze medal. “In my unbiased opinion,” says Kerby Waud, OSG Sailing Venue Sport Manager, “I think we did a great job with our tasks, both on land and on the water! I also heard several compliments from participants, other officials, parents and fans. Our smaller club and our smaller town punched above our weight to bring everything together. We hosted the athletes and coaches with approachable friendliness. We delivered fair races. We joyfully recognized the efforts of the participants. We also got things done with a lot of camaraderie and very little drama!” Kerby sends a big thank you to everyone who participated, and volunteered and to the town as a whole for making it a memorable experience for everyone.
As the excitement of the games fades, the impact of this event on the community will undoubtedly be remembered, with hopes for future events to build on this success. Come join us for the 2024-2025 season
Pursuit of the gold medal was fierce, culminating in a dramatic final race. Augustin and Paris Sasarman of the Port Credit Yacht Club
All experience levels are welcome.
New to curling? Try our Learn to Curl League. Every week you will receive instruction on different areas of the game, advancing as the weeks go on. Each lesson is taught by experienced and qualified instructors. Life is about Balance. Come to socialize and exercise.
Registration opens September 1st. Open House is October 1st, 2nd, 3rd. 2:00 and 7:00 pm League play starts October 7th.
Photo by Kelly Taylor
For more information visit our website at stthomascurlingclub.com or email curling@stthomascurlingclub.com
Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • September 2024
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Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events Pre-School Storytime Port Stanley Library, every Tuesday, at 10:00 am. (Starting September 10th). Join us for songs, stories, and a craft. Ages 0-5 and their caregiver. 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. (Starting September 9th). Join us for a story, games, and a craft. Grades 1 and up, JK/SK with a caregiver. Holistic movement with Nia Union Sports and Community Centre, every Friday at 10 am. Enjoy dance, martial arts and relaxation techniques, contact niawithg@gmail.com Morning Movement & Meditation, Port Stanley & area Community Cupboard Fundraiser September 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th . Little Beach, Port Stanley, 8 am – 9 am. Cultivate joyful awareness in everyday life as you begin your day with this gentle yet powerful practice. Suggestion donation of $10. Monday September 2nd, 2024 Gentle Yoga with Dianna Union Sports and Community Centre, 10 am – 11am. 6068 Bell St. Union. A 3-week course where you learn the art of gentle yoga. $51 for all three weeks. For more information or to register email nandhyanayoga@yahoo.com
Wednesday September 4th, 2024 Gentle Yoga with Dianna Union Sports and Community Centre, 10 am – 11 am. 6068 Bell St., Union. A 3-week course where you learn the art of gentle yoga. $51 for all three weeks. For more information or to register email nandhyanayoga@yahoo.com Thursday September 5th, 2024 Morning Movement & Meditation, Port Stanley & area Community Cupboard Fundraiser Little Beach, Port Stanley 8 am – 9 am. Cultivate joyful awareness in everyday life as you begin your day with this gentle yet powerful practice. Suggestion donation of $10. Friday September 9th, 2024 Card Making Port Stanley Library, 1 pm – 3 pm. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. Create two handmade cards with Jean. Cost: $10 Please pre-register. Tuesday September 17th, 2024 Quarter Auction Fundraiser Union Sports and Community Centre, 6 pm. 6068 Bell St., Union. Doors open at 6 pm, and the auction begins at 7 pm. Thursday September 19th, 2024 Adult Book Club. Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. We will be discussing, Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. Everybody welcome. Artist Meet Up Port Stanley Library, 1 pm – 3 pm. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. Everyone will be working on their own projects. Bring your project and the materials that you need. Pilates Level 2 Union Sports and Community Centre, 6 pm – 7 pm. 6068 Bell St., Union. This 10-week course is $125. To regi- ster or for more information, contact vrcn33@gmail.com.
Thursday September 26th, 2024 Gentle Yoga with Holly Union Sports and Community Centre, 10 am – 11 am, 6068 Bell St., Union.
For more information, contact hollymcdonald85@gmail.com. Pilates Mat Stretch
Union Sports and Community Centre, 6 pm – 7 pm. 6068 Bell St., Union. This 10-week course is $125. To register or for more information, contact vrcn33@gmail.com. Monday September 30th, 2024 Scrapbooking Port Stanley Library, 10 am –12 pm. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. Organize your photos. Cost: $6 Please pre-register. PSVA Access and Inclusion Committee Meet and Greet Port Stanley Theatre, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. For Port Stanley residents interested in finding out about our projects, future goals, and who are interested in joining the committee. The Port Stanley Community Calendar is put together by the Port Stanley Villager Magazine and the Port Stanley Villager Association. 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
Thursday September 19 7:30pm “Festival Season” by Shannon Patte Friday September 20 7:30pm “Rye an’ Gospel” by Lee MacDougall Saturday September 21 7:30pm “Gold Fish” by Steve Ross PLAYWRIGHTS’ FESTIVAL SIMON JOYNES
Sponsored by
Following a single day of rehearsal, the plays will be presented as public readings followed by question/answer sessions with the playwrights and invited audience feedback. Hosted by: Artistic Director Liz Gilroy DONATIONS WELCOMED Join us for three nights of FREE Public Readings as we develop new Canadian stories.
PortStanleyFestivalTheatre
Reserve FREE SEATS in Advance 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
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A Brief History on Port Stanley’s Post People by Peri Hayes
and her Grade 8 Eco Class(es) have been an integral part in promoting environmental ac- tions, and helping our younger students learn best practices. They are also very committed to supporting local projects, particularly the 200 Years 200 Trees Project.” The 200 Trees Bicentennial Project is led by the Environ- mental Impact Committee of the Port Stanley Village Asso- ciation Inc., in collaboration
Dispersed throughout Port Stanley are Cathy and Mike Cook’s celebrated Post People. These are vibrant wooden posts adorned with painted faces and outfits, which wonderfully detail their personalities and professions. Throughout the years, Post People have been commissioned by local residents, the Port Stanley BIA and more. At Kettle Creek Public School (KCPS), staff and students appreciate their family of Post People stationed beside the pathway which leads to their welcoming front doors. Connie Holborn, Principal of KCPS, enthuses: “I love, love, love the amazing sense of community that our school is part of; so fortunate to be part of a community that is so incredibly supportive of our school, but also be able to work with our staff and students, and give back and work with all of the amazing community members.” Regarding KCPS’ collection of Post People, Connie offers a brief history: “These lovely additions to our entrance were suggested and promoted by our Home and School Council. These ‘people’ are on display all around the village, and many local businesses and organizations have them.” In addition to supporting local art, Connie expresses, “We are so pleased to be part of the ‘Port Stanley Post People’ Club. Our five ‘people’ represent the diverse and inclusive environment that we want KCPS culture to be.” Moreover, KCPS has been recognized as an Eco-certified School. “I have long been a ‘greenie’, and believe that we all need to be stewards for our planet,” Connie passionately encourages. “The platinum certification earned by our school, and the environmental initiatives that we work on makes me incredibly proud. Mrs. Basson
with students and staff of KCPS and Central Elgin, as well as Mayor Sloan, Councillor Graham and Deputy Mayor Noble. In July of 2023, the Municipal Council of Central Elgin approved the 200th Bicentennial Project in support of planting 200 trees on the eastern side of the Port Stanley Berm. Regarding this particular cause, Jayna Basson’s Environmental Collaborative Opportunities class (ECO) has been involved for six years and counting. The vision for this project is to provide a Carolinian vegetation zone to sustain the natural environment. Contact Chairperson, Nancy Moore, at nancy@psva.ca with inquiries about this project. Additionally, connect with Connie through the KCPS website for further information about the school’s adored Post People and the positive environment which students, staff, family and contributions from the community have cultivated.
SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ATTRACTION Captain Thom Bedlam's Magic Show, C.A.L.I.P.S.O Mermaids, The Academy Circus, Port Stanley Optimists Sand Castle & Bike Rodeo, Canadian Bombshell Beauties, Antique Car Shows, Artisan Market & Marketplace, Boat Parade and Domus Development for the EPIC Fireworks!! FESTIVAL COMMITTEE Thanks so much to committee members Marna Berry Chair/Marketing/Fundraising, Sue Clifford Treasurer, Jenna Pay Canadian Bombshell Beauties/Online Auction/Mermaids, Kara Hayden Social Media/Market- Place/Kids Zone, Robin Stevens Volunteer Coordinator, Maria Maklakova Graphic/Motion Design/Social Media Manager, Glen Minor Hot Shoe Hustle Photography, Steven & Karen Smith Boat Parade, Cec Ferguson Volunteer, Jason Froude Website & Map/Itinerary Design, Paul Redman Drone operator
OUR SPONSORS
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Rumba, Sandra’s Super Sandwiches, The Edible Journey, Joshua & Co Kiwanis Club Of Port Stanley, D&L Village Juicery
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Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • September 2024
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communication could help make our governance more accessible to everyone. I’m looking forward to seeing more of Ms. Herd’s ideas in action! As kids return to school, let’s focus on ensuring safe paths for all. The removal of this summer’s contentious new stop sign, spearheaded by Mayor Sloan and Councillor Graham, has been a relief for many. However, with more homes come more students, and with more students come more buses. Port Stanley gets busier every year! As our community continues to grow, we must remain mindful of the safety of school bus pickup locations and the pedestrian routes that families use to reach them. Thank you to everyone for your role in keeping our kids safe this September!
Councillor’s Corner by Morgaine Griffin With summer drawing to a close, Council is preparing to resume its regular meeting schedule and shift back into high gear. Our summer break has been a valuable time for councillors to spend more hours in the community, enjoying wonderful celebrations like Canada Day, Calipso, Colours of the Beach, and Elgin Pride Week. What a privilege it is to be part of a community that comes together to create so much joy and unity. Our new CAO, Ms. Herd, has been getting familiar with Central Elgin. Among other initiatives, she’s been working on making Council meetings more efficient. Shorter meetings and clearer
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The Inaugural Elgin County Studio Tour by Peri Hayes Professional oil painter for nearly 30 years, Elizabeth Kusinski, is the proud Co-chair, alongside Laura Woermke, of the highly anticipated Elgin County Studio Tour. Elizabeth highlights their dedicated volunteer-based committee, including Treasurer, Mary Intven Wallace, and Neil Hubert, who prepared Admin- istration during his previous involvement. Elizabeth is thrilled to announce that this is a free, self-guided tour. Originally from Toronto, Elizabeth has resided in Port Stanley for 14 years. Having participated in studio tours across the province, she feels strongly about facilitating such an experience in Elgin County: “We felt it was important to highlight the cultural importance and economic impact of the arts by providing this unique opportunity for the public to step inside the artists’ studios, witness the creative process and purchase one-of-a-kind works.” There will be a variety of artists showcased, with pieces for sale and demonstrations available at certain locations. Elizabeth has raised her daughter surrounded by art, about which she voices her passion: “I paint, and it goes through me. Each piece is meant for somebody out there.” Inspired by photographs, both old and new, Elizabeth focuses on bringing memories back to life through her nostalgic and vintage style. The hospitable Elizabeth is looking forward to providing a memorable experience through the 21 studios and 23 featured artists participating in the Elgin County Studio Tour’s debut, which is taking place this September 28th and 29th from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. Moreover, nine of these locations are based in St. Thomas, while one is in Union, two are in Sparta and nine are situated in Port Stanley.
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This event has been two diligent years in the works, as Elizabeth and her colleagues strive for this community celebration to be a safe space for nourishing one’s creativity and forming meaningful connections through art. “This is where you can be you,” Elizabeth encourages. “You can also enjoy the village, and make a whole weekend out of it! We want this event to expand the geographic area, and continue to grow.” Additionally, this is a juried show with a membership fee to participate once accepted. This fee is directed toward the advertising for this tour, as well as printing and signage. 25 artists will be accepted for the Elgin County Studio Tour next year, with the application process outlined through their website this October. Co-chair, Laura Woermke, delightedly offers, “We are incredibly excited to invite art lovers and enthusiasts to the upcoming Elgin County Studio Tour. This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet our talented local artists, explore their creative spaces and witness the magic of their artistic process firsthand -- a great weekend of art inspiration, connection, discovery and celebration of the vibrant art community of Elgin County and St. Thomas.” The 2024 Elgin County Studio Tour is generously sponsored by The Art and Soul Café, Canadale Nurseries, Domus Developments, Doug Tarry Homes, Inn on the Harbour, the Port Stanley BIA, Port Stanley Properties and The Windjammer Inn. Elizabeth expresses immense appreciation for their support. For further information about this event on the horizon — including an informative map detailing the tour — visit the elgincountystudiotour.ca website. Elizabeth encourages in- quiries to be emailed to elgincountystudiotour@gmail.com, enthusiastically concluding, “It was amazing that we could all work together to make this happen. We are really excited!”
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Port Stanley Villager • September 2024 • Page 7
From page to stage! by Liz Gilroy, PSFT Artistic Director
Lee MacDougall gives us a teaser for Rye’ an Gospel : “Darla Parker and her outrageous friend Rex head back to the small town she grew up in to attend her grandmother’s funeral. When she ends up inheriting the family Mill property, the whole town gets involved in a battle between her cousin Lo-anne, the Mayor Mert Cooney, Stella and Vic Polinki, and more crazy locals than you can shake a stick at.” “Walter is a retiree living a quiet life in a quiet neighbourhood. Shannon is a busy mother of two who moves in across the street. An unlikely friendship develops as they sit and talk about everything from life to love to death to egg rolls. A year in the life of two lonely people who didn’t know they needed each other. Until they did,” playwright Steve Ross reveals. Please join us at the Simon Joynes Playwrights’ Festival from September 19th to 21st at 7:30 pm, and play a part in a new piece that could go from page to stage!
The inspiration for a play can come from anywhere; a germ of an idea, a snippet of an overheard conversation, a newspaper article, a dream or a nightmare, your own past, an urban myth, one of your grandmother’s tall tales, and the need to tell that story impels the playwright to create. It’s a solitary journey and requires self-motivation and discipline. That’s why Simon Joynes started the Playwrights’ Festival, being a writer himself he understood the need to offer playwrights the opportunity to find the money, the time, and a venue where people could gather and listen to a brand-new piece of theatre. How exciting to be the first audience to hear a play read aloud with professional actors and to be able to participate in that piece’s creation. Often by the time the play gets to the workshop stage, the writer has written three to six different versions, drafts as they are called in the biz. The public readings are invaluable for the playwright; they give them an opportunity to hear the audience’s reaction firsthand but without the pressure of a full production and the money it costs to make that happen. This year the Simon Joynes Playwrights’ Festival is offering three different works: Festival Season by Shannon Patte, Rye’ an Gospel by Lee MacDougall, and Goldfish by Steve Ross. Shannon Patte: “Before writing Festival Season, I dedicated a significant amount of time crafting each character’s background. This helped me understand how they would respond to whatever situation I threw at them. It was so much fun imagining how these characters would work together to organize a small-town flower festival.”
Port Stanley Villager September 2024 cover
Port Stanley’s 3rd annual Colours at the Beach was held at Main Beach on July 13th. If you look to the left, you can see Councillor Griffin getting in on the action! Photo by Geoff Rae
Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • September 2024
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YOU CAN HELP!
Become a sponsor Make a donation
Leave a legacy with a pledge of a portion of your estate
Help end homelessness & break the cycle of poverty
Experiences of homelessness and poverty are often invisible. According to the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, one in four Canadians are worried about paying their rent next month – up almost 10% from two years ago. Their families struggle with meeting basic needs and providing food security in a crisis that affects working class, seniors, individuals, youth and children. Due to the economic divide in our current community, some families find themselves sleeping in cars or tents, staying with friends or in spaces that are inadequate and unsafe. There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution to breaking the cycle of poverty – it is a complex and significant problem. YWCA St.Thomas-Elgin’s Keep A Roof Over Their Heads campaign is just one way to show your support in breaking the cycle of poverty. Poverty intervention programs are critical to building resources and opportunities for change, so everyone has a chance to reach their full potential.
By contributing to the Keep A Roof Over Their Heads Campaign you can ensure the shared values of compassion, advocacy, and support for women and their families will continue for years to come. • 109 youth through system navigation, housing placements, intensive housing-based case management, family reunification services, counselling funded opportunities, and coordinated access through the Youth Homelessness Protocol YWCA St. Thomas-Elgin is committed to developing and incorporating evidence-informed and person-centred approaches to assist with housing stability to ensure that everyone in St. Thomas-Elgin has a safe place to call home. Last fall, YWCA created their first Women- Led Family Transitional Home as a steppingstone for women with children to make their way to a brighter future. Did you know in 2023 the YWCA supported: • 20 individuals to find new opportunities for economic security, a better understanding of breaking the cycle of poverty while navigating community resources • 30 youth to develop life and employment skills as they worked towards entering the workforce • 64 individuals through supportive housing programs
For more information regarding giving levels including Corporate Sponsorships from $1,000-$5,000+ as well as individual donations up to $3,000, please visit https://ywcaste.ca/keep-a-roof-over-their- heads/
Join YWCA and help reach their goal of raising $50,000 in their 2024 campaign to build housing stability for women, youth, and women-led families with a donation by December 31, 2024.
HELP YWCA REACH THEIR GOAL OF $50,000
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Port Stanley Villager • September 2024 • Page 9
Holistically Yours… Wellness and Healing Services by Peri Hayes Proud Nurse Clinician and Holistic Wellness Practitioner, Mireille (Mimi) Guillemette, passionately launched Holis- tically Yours… Wellness and Healing Services this year. Holistic products are pur- chasable, as well as a variety of rejuvenating experiences. With an academic background in nursing from the College Nurses of Ontario and the Canadian Nurses Association, Mimi — most recently be- coming a Craniosacral Therapy practitioner — is certified in
Mimi is looking forward to bringing her business to Jennifer Jacquelyn and Mark Van Troost’s Revival Farms Homestead Stay and School, where she will be operating organic spa and yoga opportunities, in addition to holistic retreats on weekends. Additionally, Mimi will be a French Educator for students attending Revival Farms Homestead School, demonstrating creative ways to teach the language in a refreshing manner and incorporating Revival Farms’ vocabulary into the curriculum, as well as their values of community and environment. Furthermore, as the on-site nurse, Mimi will include Health Education — such as Homeopathic and Naturopathic health — into her lesson plans: “I want to teach the kids things they need to know about physical and health education. I want to instill in them that ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure’.” While Mimi expresses her love of learning, she also enjoys spreading awareness about prevention and the benefits of practicing proactive health measures. Being herself two years in remission as of May 8th, Mimi is eager to facilitate a safe healing space for those impacted, whether as patients or loved ones, by cancer. She views her personal history as the gateway through which she realized her determination to provide the type of care that she believes people deserve: “I was on the other side of the table for two years. I saw how broken it was as a caregiver, and then I really saw it as a patient.” “I am grateful,” Mimi graciously continues. “Had I not been through cancer, I wouldn’t be meeting the people that I am today. All of that led me to the journey that I’m on, and I want to give people hope that the ‘Big C’ does not necessarily mean the end. Instead of turning right, go left and it can be more beautiful than you could ever have imagined. I want my business to encourage the attitude
nutrition counselling, ionic foot detoxification, INDIE Head Massage and REIKI. Through time previously spent with VON, Mimi is equipped to offer mobile services as requested. Based in Mount Brydges, Mimi mentions her delight to be included on the Dorchester Golf Club’s annual promotion of local businesses, which she highlights is in partnership with Fairway Media.
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which will help people to overcome more than they realized. I want to encourage people to have hope.” Mimi is currently writing her first memoir which depicts her cancer journey through candor, humour and her life experiences. The author reveals that she is hoping to release her tell-all in late 2025. What excites Mimi about her service? “It’s being able to see the smiles on my clients’ faces,” she earnestly replies. “To see people leaving here happy with the services and treatments that I provide them; it’s offering information and providing the kind of care with my Westernized background through the holistic approach; it’s people feeling that it worked, or that they are happy to learn more.”
Fun for the whole family! Open for U-Pick Apples. Baked goods and family fun. For inquiries about Holistically Yours… Wellness and Healing Services, call 226-373-2179 or email mireilleg8@hotmail. com. On September 7th, Mimi is marrying her beloved partner, Wayne, in the lakeside village. She feels deeply connected to the water, appreciates the symbolism of being featured in the September issue of the magazine, and is thrilled to be working on the nearby Revival Farms this 2024-2025 year!
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Port Stanley Villager • September 2024 • Page 11
Could Online Yoga Benefit You? Yes! by Caroline Harris Does online yoga compete with in-person yoga? YES! Online yoga is relatively new, but quickly growing. Many people experience the benefits while others are wondering how it works. Prior to COVID–19, I taught yoga exclusively in person. However, studios closed. People wanted to continue their practice, and I wanted to continue teaching. Naturally, I started live, interactive, online, one-on-one classes, offering a personal approach based on participants’ physical/medical restrictions and their individual goals. My students quickly enjoy being able to practice live yoga online. The classes are tailored specifically to their needs. I can select the best poses for them and still use the correct technique. They avoid time spent sitting on their mat waiting during an in- person yoga class or video while the rest of the participants are in a pose that is unsafe for them to do. They are much happier doing poses designed around their mobility, goals and preferences. My online students also noticed they were spending less time, money and stress on commuting while reducing their carbon footprint and wear and tear on their vehicles. Cost can vary for online yoga depending on several factors, including the instructor’s education, training, experience and expertise. However, it tends to be less expensive to practice yoga online than in person. Yoga from a live online platform offers the benefits of an in-person class right from the convenience and comfort of your own home, office or hotel room! Frequent travellers often struggle to improve their skills and maintain a consistent yoga practice. Whether on a business trip or vacation, visiting family and friends, or relocating, virtual classes go wherever you go, eliminating an annoying interruption to your yoga routine. It’s no surprise that people are embracing the virtual realm when it comes to their health and well-being, as it eliminates excuses and sets you up for success! If you are new to yoga or have been practicing for years, online classes allow you to experience this innovative virtual approach while remaining focused on your needs, wants and goals. You can practice yoga online in a private space without the anxiety of surrounding distractions like traffic, inclement weather, parking or finding a space for your mat at a busy yoga studio. You never have to rush to an inaccessible yoga class again as you can schedule the online class around your busy lifestyle, whatever your geographical location. The journey to improving your health and fitness can be intimidating at a yoga studio. Introverts and those who value
privacy can dedicate a space in their home or office to practice in an environment that allows them to feel comfortable, safe and judgment-free. You can take ownership of your yoga practice, wear what you want and build healthy habits on your own terms. Parents appreciate that an online platform eliminates the expense of childcare. They no longer worry about whether their partner will make it home on time, rushing and missing the class they already paid for. Parents can quietly practice yoga online while their children sleep. Transitioning from in-person to live online yoga instruction is a smooth process that offers accountability, convenience and flexibility. Whether you initially choose in-person or live online yoga classes, keep in mind that you can always switch from one to the other based on your ever-changing life circumstances. Namaste.
519.709.8274 KARENHUTTON@ROYALLEPAGE.CA WWW.KARENHUTTON.CA
REAL ESTATE AGENT
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the 200 Trees bicentennial project on the berm in Port Stanley. We have raised over $130,000 (over 65%) of the $200,000 goal.
For more information and a list of donors, please go to psva.ca
Port Stanley Villager
Geoffrey Rae, Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177
For more information and a list of donors, please go to psva.ca
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 . 750 Talbot St.• Suite 125 • St. Thomas • ON 226-210-1086 • office@simplicity-cremation.ca WWW.SIMPLICITY-CREMATION.CA
Help us raise the $70,000 remaining with your tax deductible donation at https://escf.fcsuite. com/erp/donate/create/ fund?funit_id=1450
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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • September 2024 6 Port Stanley Villager • September 2024
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What a CALIPSO by Marna Berry, CEO, Travel Green The CALIPSO Festival in Port Stanley, Ontario is a vibrant celebration that encapsulates the spirit of community, creativity, and fun. This year’s festival was a resounding success, drawing crowds from near and far to partake in a myriad of activities designed to delight and entertain people of all ages. From
the enchanting Mermaid appearances and Magical Shows to the adrenaline-pumping Bike Rodeo and the creativity displayed in the Sandcastle competition, the festival was a showcase of imagination and talent. A special highlight of this year’s festival was the introduction of retro CALIPSO Festival t-shirts, a nod to the event’s rich history and a keepsake of the joyous occasion. If you didn’t get one at the festival, they are still available online. The festival also featured two Antique Car Shows, an Artisan Market and Marketplace, exhilarating Boat Rides, a spectacular Boat Parade, and a breathtaking Fireworks Display, all thanks to our sponsors -- Domus Development Co., Elgin County, PS Business Association, Inn On The Harbour, Dallas Posthumus Beach Glass Realty, PS Terminal Rail, PS Villager, Jason Froude Realty, St Thomas Self Storage, Legends Of Lake Erie Boat Tours, Orange Force Marine, Port Stanley Legion, GT’S On The Beach, PS Swans, Port Stanley Cottages, Home Hardware, Big J’s, U.Cake, Rhumba, Candy Gram, Pierside Pub, Stinson Family, IDA Pharmacy, Fire Hall Market, MP Karen Vecchio, Hair On The Harbour, Port Stanley Dentistry, Moore’s Water Gardens, Port Stanley Foodland, White Feather Skin Therapy, Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Rhumba, Sandra’s Super Sandwiches, Joshua & Company, D&L Village Juicery, Kiwanis Club Of Port Stanley and The Edible Journey. The success of the CALIPSO Festival could not have been achieved without the dedication and hard work of the organizing committee and the myriad of attractions that participated. Thanks so much to committee members, Marna Berry, Sue Clifford, Jenna Pay, Kara Hayden, Robin Stevens, Glen Minor, Maria Maklakova, Steven & Karen Smith, Cec Ferguson & Jason Froude. Their commitment to creating a memorable experience for everyone is truly commendable. As we look back on this year’s festivities, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all!!
Photo courtesy of Hot Shoe Hustle Photography.
ECRM.CA
ELGIN COUNTY RAILWAY MUSEUM &
SCAN FOR TICKETS
RAILYARDS BREWFEST
WICKED SEPTEMBER 14TH 1:00 PM-10:00 PM
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EST. 2024
BEER CIDER WINE SPIRITS
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LOCAL VENDORS
FOR MORE INFO: INFO@CASOSTATION.CA OR CALL 519.633.2535
*At participating dealers only. Cannot be combined with any other o er. O er valid on Krown applications at regular retail price. O er expires September 30, 2024.
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KROWN ST. THOMAS 37 Laing Blvd. | 519-633-7879
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Port Stanley Villager • September 2024 • Page 13
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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • September 2024
Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com New The definition of ‘august’ is to be profoundly honoured, and August in Port suitably celebrated its advent with an especially spectacular CALIPSO weekend. Kudos to the organizers, funders, and participants! An acronym
regular business hours year-round, not only for visitors but also for our residents? Remember when September was all about going back to the daily grind? Good news! The Legion’s September line-up is John Milles, Friday 6; Karaoke, Friday 20; and Quiz Night, Friday 27. “Change is the process by which the future invades our lives” -- Alvin Toffler, Future Shock. We are living the prophecy. Defending the status quo during changing times is irrelevant; let’s enjoy our future now. Try tinkling the ivories at the Play Me, Port Stanley piano at the Visitor Centre, and succumb to September’s secret summer in Port. We’ve earned it! When we practice our best future, we create it.
for Come and Live in Port Stanley Ontario, CALIPSO was at its peak in the mid-80s and waned until 2000, citing volunteer burnout, yadda yadda . However, its rejuvenation due to the efforts of Marna Berry and Beth Ann Connors, together with a league of volunteers, has renewed its siren call at a time when development has dramatically increased. The sight of baby bumps and buggies, bikes, and BMWs, due in part to the work- from-home trend, is a sign of salvation from becoming an entirely retirement community. Watching the presidential elections in the Excited States, it’s heartening to hear VP candidate, Tim Walz on the subject of the values of small-town communities with a passion that’s been out of fashion. What’s that got to with Port? This is us. Despite the fractious issues that affect us locally, our history of service organizations and volunteerism speaks to our core values of true grit and neighbourly concern. “It’s always better to be surrounded by enemies that make you strong than to be crushed between friends that make you weak.” -- Ram Mohan. Be aware of stickers stuck around the village touting a Nationalist Lifestyle. This is NOT us. Check out WILL2RISE.COM to know why. Further to fractious local issues is an update to ‘Good fences make good neighbours’: ‘By-laws make better neighbours.’ If you have a neighbouring village hillbilly (characterized as above the by-laws), you need to know what you can do: review the relevant by-laws at CentralElgin.org. A drop-down menu under the Municipal Office leads to a By-law Complaint Form. Noise violations after hours? Call the OPP. By-law concerns? Building I By-Law Enforcement Coordinator T:519-631-4860 x 284, Matt Statema T: 519-631-4860 x 274. Pursue peace. Extending the visitor season serves the long-term economic sustainability of Port as a year-round visitor destination. To that end, Riva and The Port Stanley Brewing Company are a two-hour draw for a day trip that’s attracting a huge deluge of new visitors. Is it time for retailers and restaurants to coordinate
Photo courtesy of Hot Shoe Hustle Photography.
OPEN Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 5pm
215 Main Street Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca
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Port Stanley Villager • September 2024 • Page 15
The Elgin County Studio Tour is a self-directed tour of artists’ studios, providing a unique opportunity to meet the artists in their workspaces.
Visit the website for locations and maps!
Elizabeth Kusinski 311 Selbourne Drive, Port Stanley www.elizabethkusinski.com 1 Sylvie Gilgen 37552 Lake Line, Port Stanley www.instagram.com/sylviegilgen57 2
Matthew Higgins Turtle + Bird Studio 46343 North St. Sparta
www.turtleandbird.com 11
Dennis Kalichuk Happy Rock Studio 86 Gladstone Ave, St. Thomas www.denniskalichuk.com 14 Mary Louise White MLWGlass Studio 52 Stanley St., St. Thomas www.instagram.com/mlwmarylouisewhite 13 Candy McManiman 6222 Pondview Lane, Union www.artistsforconservation.org/artists/1046 12 12 Balfour St., St. Thomas www.instagram.com/2dogsstudiosca 15 Katherine Medlyn Medlyn Studio 643 Talbot St, St Thomas www.medlynstudio.com 16 Heather Keating 132 Erie Street, St. Thomas 17 Mary Intven Wallace 120 Axford Pkwy, St. Thomas www.maryintvenwallaceartist.com 18 Laura Woermke 6 Blue Heron Place, St. Thomas www.laurawoermke.art 19 Josepha van den Anker 10 McGregor Ct., St. Thomas www.josephavandenanker.art 20 Jennifer Gerardi 2Dogs Studio Grayden Laing 10965 Wonderland Road, St. Thomas, ON www.laingstudios.com 21
Cathy Horvath Buchanan #50-301 Carlow Road, Port Stanley www.cathyhorvathbuchanan.com Melanie Cummings #51-301 Carlow Road, Port Stanley www.instagram.com/melcummingsart
3
Jane Paterak 547 West Edith Cavell Blvd, Port Stanley www.instagram.com/janepaterak 3 4
Christine Torres Schnortzy’s Pottery 366 George Street, Port Stanley www.instagram.com/schnortzyspottery Tracy Pitford 146 Bessie St., Port Stanley www.instagram.com/tracy_pitford_art
5
6
Denise Antaya 58 Compass Trail, Port Stanley www.deniseantaya.com Joseph Sawicki 6137 Hiram Smith Line , Sparta www.spartagathered.ca 10 9 Susan E. Tanton 4626 Colborne Street, Port Stanley www.instagram.com/susanetanton 8 Suzette Terry 4626 Colborne Street, Port Stanley www.suzette-terry.com 7 Carly Higgins Turtle + Bird Studio 46343 North St. Sparta www.turtleandbird.com 11
A huge thank you to our amazing sponsors for making our Elgin County Studio Tour possible!
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