Port Stanley Villager June 2024

Port Stanley Villager June 2024 Issue 59

Letter from the Editor

and ask, ‘How can I help?’ If we let these community events end, they will likely be lost forever. The other conversation I had was with a reader, who was telling me how much he enjoyed the Port Stanley Villager and looked forward to its arrival each month in his mailbox. This is not the first time I have heard this or a similar statement. My response is this: I appreciate it; I appreciate all of you who take the time to read each issue. This is why I love what I do -- not because people recognize me; I didn’t get into this to be rich or famous -- but because people enjoy learning about what is going on within their community. That is all this magazine is, an opportunity for me (and Peri) to share your stories with your neighbours. It is our privilege to meet you, listen to you and share your stories. I hope you continue to enjoy the Port Stanley Villager for years to come, as I am sure I will continue to enjoy presenting it to you. We have another great issue for you this month. Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day; I often will have breakfast for dinner too, so I for one was very excited to learn that GTs will now be serving breakfast beachside! We have an update on the 200 trees for the 200th anniversary. We also share news of an upcoming local event highlighting historical Port Stanley! Grab your coffee, find your most comfortable chair and sit back and enjoy! Talk to you next month! Geoff

I want to start this issue by telling you about a few conversations I have had in the past month. First, I met with a volunteer who is not only a volunteer but is what I would call a serial volunteer. He wanted to sit down with me and talk about an event he is volunteering for, but more importantly, to talk to me

about a serious issue -- lack of volunteers. Folks over the age of 55, you can sit this one out, it is not aimed at you at all. You folks are the bedrock of volunteers within our community. For those who are 30 to 55, this one is for you! We are so lucky within our community; there is so much to do and so many great events for our family and friends to enjoy. The majority of these events are put on by local volunteers. And not to sound too ominous, but if you like having events like these, then it is time to step up and chip in. 10% of the people do 90% of the work, while the rest of us enjoy the fruits of their labour. But that 10%, for the most part, are growing older, and some are looking to pass on the baton, but when they look back, there is no one there looking to take it. So, they continue running until one day, they just stop, exhausted and frustrated. What happens when they stop? Well, all the local events we love to take part in also stop. I know focusing on family is important; I get that, but your community needs you. Get involved, find a cause you are passionate about

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Breakfast at the Beach For locals and tourists alike, GTs on the Beach has long been a cherished spot to unwind and indulge in delectable dishes -- with a view to match! Now, with the arrival of their new breakfast menu, mornings at GTs are set to become even more unforgettable. Owners Carol and Andy Gates are excited to offer a breakfast option, and Carol says their reasoning behind it was prompted from both personal experiences and customer demand. “One of the things Andy and I do often in the fall is to take a little two or three- day trip to various places,” Carol reveals. “A couple of years ago, we went to Wellington County, and they have some really fabulous restaurants there... it just opened our minds to the possibilities.” Customer requests also played a significant role in their decision- making. “We’ve had so many requests, particularly to have a place in Port Stanley that’s open a bit earlier, seven days a week,” Carol explains. “We really felt there was a need we could fill.” Despite some limitations in their kitchen equipment, the team at GTs has crafted a menu that doesn’t compromise on quality or taste. Featuring favourites like Eggs Benny Bagels with either peameal bacon, smoked salmon, or tomato & arugula, GTs is committed to sourcing top-notch ingredients, says Carol. “We searched quite far and wide for the right bagel and found a bakery in London that makes a perfect bagel.” In addition to the Bennys, the new menu includes Chicken & Waffles, Classic Waffles, Yogurt with Granola, Donut Holes, Sausage & Biscuits, and so much more!

dishes. “We hope people come and try something new,” Carol enthuses. As the sun rises over Port Stanley, GTs on the Beach (350 Edith Cavell Blvd.) invites you to savour the flavours of its new breakfast offerings, served daily from 8 am. to 11 am.

And it’s not just about the food — the breakfast cocktails also earn rave reviews. “We decided to make them a little bit lighter,” Carol confides, “Just one ounce so they’re a little lighter to ease into the day.” With their kitchen facilities, GTs offers eggs cooked two ways — scrambled or basted — both perfect for their signature

JUNE 19 - JULY 13 THEY’RE FOUND IN TREES Tweet, Tweet...... everybody’s chirping about Norm Foster’s new comedy about bird watching!

Birders, William and Mitchell sit under the same tree every day and discuss birds, life, loss, and ladies’ underwear. Then along comes Paula! Will three be a crowd?

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Port Stanley Villager • June 2024 • Page 3

Canadian Dental Care Plan by Peri Hayes

Dr. Nehal Al Tarhuni is the Principal Dentist and Owner of Port Stanley Dentistry, as well as Dutton Dentistry and Fastbraces, “My biggest passions,” she reveals, “Are dentistry, community service and philanthropy. As a dental student, I put together dental outreach missions abroad and served in many since.” Nehal has immersed herself in international relief missions, supported communities through local initiatives and organized her free Dental Care Days -- “serving the most underprivileged in my communities,” as she states. As of May 1st, Canadian residents aged 70 years and above are eligible to have their oral health care covered by the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP). As well, seniors 65–69 years of age may register online. Coverage includes basic services: cleanings, dentures, exams, extractions, fillings, root canals and X-rays.

“The coverage,” Nehal offers, “Does not yet include orthodontic treatment, such as braces and crowns -- but that will start rolling out in the fall, according to the government.” More complex services, such as partial dentures, will require federal pre-authorization of payment -- with available coverage in November of this year. This is subsidized dental care, as Nehal emphasizes: “The average exam and cleaning visit to find out what work could be needed is covered at a good rate of around 90%, making the balance the patient has to pay out of pocket minimal so if that is an issue, they can get their teeth cleaned, see what needs to be done and get an estimate before making a decision. If, at that point, cost is prohibitive, they can talk to their dentist about payment plans or doing the work in segments -- if it’s not an emergency. Meanwhile, the Ontario Dental Association is continuing to engage with the government — and so should individual citizens — to advocate for true, full coverage and full subsidy for services.” While discussing her business and the CDCP, Nehal enthuses, “I enjoy helping people; I find true purpose in doing that, freeing people from pain, and giving them confident, beautiful and healthy smiles. CDCP is just a first step towards equitable access to oral health care, which is a universal human right and a necessity for every Canadian.” Nehal’s ambitions include continuing to engage with local politicians and government representatives, as she is interested in exploring ways in which this program can be advanced to cover more Canadians. Port Stanley Dentistry is located at 286 Bridge Street, operating Monday to Friday with variable hours. Patients are welcome to book an appointment, as well as to learn more information by calling 226-658-2891, emailing portstanleydentistry@gmail. com, walking-in, or connecting with a representative through their website at portstanleydentistry.org. For further details, explore the CDCP Dental Benefits Guide at canada.ca/en/ services/benefits/dental/dental-care-plan/guide.html.

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PORT STANLEY REAL ESTATE List with me and see your Home advertised here in the Villager! BY GREG GALBRAITH CENTURY 21 REALTY

Hello Friends and Neighbors, Now is a great time to invest in Resort property. Port Stanley sits in a river valley. On each side of the village, the cliffs fall into the lake making it impossible to build on either side of town. There are only so many lots that are lakefront, lake view, riverfront, or have proximity to the water. As the market turns around, these properties will gain value quickly as many of the buyers are wealthy retirees who are less dependent on borrowing money and

387 STANLEY PARK – New Build. Priced below replacement cost. 4 extra large bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 large decks. Chef’s kitchen. Located on the Edith Cavell Strip at the beach. Walk to everything. Try your Offer! Photos, video drone, and floor plans at MLS #X8181412 5 51 GEORGE STREET – EXCLUSIVE MITCHELL HEIGHTS NEIGHBOURHOOD. High on a Hilltop among multi million dollar homes on estate sized lots. 4 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, like living in the country on 2/3 of an acre. See all photos, video drone, and floor plans at MLS # 40564468 551 GEORGE STREET

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Councillor’s Corner by Councillor Michelle Graham

We look forward to seeing you at these events and appreciate your continued support! Additionally, the 200 Trees for 200 Years committee, in partnership with the Eco class at our local school, continues its fundraising efforts. So far $80,000 of the $200,000 goal has been raised. This endeavour will not only assist in creating shaded, walkable green space but can assist with cleaning up the soil through phytoremediation. An amazing endeavour! Please be vigilant about slowing down and keeping your eyes open for the goslings that wander onto the streets of Port during the spring. Additionally, remember that we are requesting no fireworks be set off in May. Your cooperation helps ensure the safety of our newborn wildlife community. Thank you! We continue to strive to build a sustainable future through responsible governance.

To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com You can support these initiatives by purchasing PS200 T-shirts, available online at www.portstanley200.com, at Uncommon Blooms in the Firehall Market and at the 782 Bar/Restaurant. We are excited to welcome our new CAO, Carey Herd, to Central Elgin! Ms. Herd brings with her ten years of valuable CAO experience. Our Council is in a rebuilding phase and greatly looks forward to the expertise Ms. Herd will contribute from her extensive municipal experience. We are pleased to announce that our mayor, Andrew Sloan, along with MPP Flack and the mayor of St. Thomas, have confirmed the completion of the ‘VW’ deal. This agreement will secure wastewater resources for MCE for years to come. It represents a continued effort by the current Council to ensure responsible water and wastewater rates for our community, and an emphasis was placed on this goal during the negotiations. There are several exciting events coming up in town: • Historical Weekend: Join us on June 15, 2024, for Brock’s Landing re-enactment at Hofhuis Park and a historical self- guided walking tour throughout the town led by the Heritage Committee(s). Sites are Christ Anglican Church at 283 Colborne St., Telegraph House at 205 Main St., The Cork Kiln at 183 Main St., King George VI lift bridge, 309 Bridge St., Port Stanley Terminal Rail at 309 Bridge St., Main Beach at 350 Edith Cavell Blvd. • Town-wide scavenger hunt: June 2024 • Canada Day: 200 cupcakes and fireworks, July 1 and June 30, 2024 respectively

Port Stanley Villager • June 2024 • Page 5

200 Trees Bicentennial Project with Kettle Creek Public School by Peri Hayes The 200 Trees Bicentennial Project is led by the Environmental Impact Committee of the Port Stanley Village Association Inc., in collaboration with students and staff of Kettle Creek Public School (KCPS) and Central Elgin, as well as Mayor Sloan, Councilor Graham and Deputy Mayor Noble. In July of last year, the Municipal Council of Central Elgin approved the 200th Bicentennial Project in support of planting 200 trees on the eastern side of the Berm in Port Stanley. Jayna Basson’s Environmental Collaborative Opportunities class (ECO) has been an integral component of the 200 Trees Project. Jayna’s ECO class has been involved with this project for the previous six years. Grade 8 students, Cadence Baitz and Creed Green, discuss their ongoing efforts. Along with their classmates, they have been working on this project for the 2023–2024 school year. The vision for this project is to celebrate the community and the history of Port Stanley, while providing a small Carolinian vegetation zone to sustain the natural environment. Asked what their contributions to this project personally mean to them, Cadence replies, “It feels really good. We get to try new stuff, and learn more about nature. We get to be involved with the community and the people involved with this project.” Creed shares that he is excited about the shrubs which they have begun growing on an off-site farmland property. He has thoroughly enjoyed spending time outdoors, which includes their frequent walks in nature. He declares, “Going to the Berm and exploring is fun!” While detailing what their collaborations entail, the pair share that they had a wonderful time hosting an Earth Day celebration on the Berm in April. During this event, the class spoke about the project and are continuing to raise awareness of this incredible initiative. The ECO class has been raising funds, and has even prepared grants on an immensely rewarding level. Says Cadence, “We’ve raised a lot of money in our school. I liked when we wrote grants, because we got them approved and it helped out a lot.” ECO students submitted an application, receiving a $5,000 McLean Foundation Grant and a $1,000 Jane Goodall Foundation Grant toward this project. Jayna reveals that for the trees which they recently potted at the school, the class purchased their materials with the money provided by the Jane Goodall Foundation.

Kettle Creek Public School has also facilitated Toonie Tree Tuesday, during which students are welcome to bring a Toonie for their classroom’s collection, with an online resource previously made available by the committee for families to place donations from home. This month, the class that has raised the most amount of money will travel to the Berm for a field trip, while primary students will alternatively spend time outside on the school property with the ECO class. It is evident that these two ECO representatives are passionate about caring for the ecosystem, as Cadence delightedly states: “I like that we get lots of trees on the Berm. The trees are definitely better for the environment than buildings.” Creed adds, “When I am older, I can see the trees and say that I was a part of that.” Those interested in learning more about this project are

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encouraged to visit the Berm and read their informative map located beside Little Beach, detailing the 200 Trees Bicentennial Project.. It details the 200 Trees Bicentennial Project. Moreover,

contact Project Chair, Nancy Moore, at nancy@psva.ca to place inquiries and support this significant cause.

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Port Stanley Villager • June 2024 • Page 7

Heritage Port Stanley’s Lakeside Tour by Peri Hayes The not-for-profit organization, Heritage Port Stanley (since 1998) is offering a ‘Doors Open’ Heritage Tour, comprising an array of activities available for the public to freely enjoy this June 15th. Sally Martyn, retired teacher of 32 years, radiates a passion for recognizing community and promoting local history. She brought forward her vision of a Heritage Tour to Heritage Port, and has since been diligently planning this event. Sixteen tour guides will be stationed at Christ Church, Cork Kiln, King George VI Lift Bridge, Main Beach, Port Stanley Terminal Rail, Russell House and the Telegraph House. The Bridge, for example, will have four guides present, who will speak about the tragedy which occurred during the construction process, as well as about the Grand Opening and the underground railway connections to this area. The earliest site on the Heritage Tour is the Christ Anglican Church on Colborne Street which, Sally shares, was built in 1845 on a plot of land offered by Col. Bostwick in 1824. This location will focus on the history of Christ Church and Col. John Bostwick, who is considered to be the father of Port Stanley. Historical storyteller, Dr. Joan Clayton, will be one of the captivating tour guides at the Telegraph House. There will also be opportunities to visit the Harbour, and learn about Port Stanley’s fishing industry. These interpretive tours are scheduled every half hour from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, with guides speaking in approximately 20-minute intervals and offering a ten-minute window for travelling to the next location. Guests have the liberty to experience this tour in an order of their preference, with time allotted for asking questions. Along with two interpreters, there will be large pictures of early Main Beach, featuring the casino,

Ferris wheel, swimming pool and more. Moreover, beside the wheelchair-accessible walkway on Main Beach, there is a Central Elgin sign, which displays the history of the beach. Heritage Port’s meetings have recently relocated. Previously, the majority of their meetings were held at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. This past year, their meetings have been facilitated by heritage buildings which are significant to the lakeside village. “This is thanks to the generosity of the owners of these buildings,”

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Sally discloses. “Two of the Heritage Port meetings were held in two newly designated heritage buildings.” Continuing, Sally announces, “Through the Municipality of Central Elgin’s Municipal Heritage Committee, we have officially designated three buildings in Port Stanley this year. Official plaques have been placed on these structures, and they will be unveiled as soon as Front Street is completed. The newly designated structures include Rustico on Front Street, the Liberty Hill Club on Cornell and Alma Villa on Harrison Place.”

While preparing for the Heritage Tour, Sally has simultaneously immersed herself in the planning of the High Tea and Historical Fashion Show. These eagerly awaited festivities will be taking place on the 1st of June at the Sparta Church Museum at 6073 Quaker Road, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Historical clothing will be showcased, such as bathing suits, Easter parade hats and wedding gowns. A former summer student of the Sparta Historical Society, Elizabeth Brandeau, is also creating outfits to be modeled at the Fashion Show. “She is phenomenal,” Sally enthuses. “As well, Reverend Nick Wells always has amazing costumes in the show. It is a lot of fun and a lot of work also goes into the food. As soon as people heard it was back on after COVID-19, it sold out immediately.” This upcoming Heritage Tour is Heritage Port Stanley’s contribution to the Port Stanley 200 celebrations, which are ongoing year- TRANSFORMING TOMORROW.

long. This tour has been crafted with care, and will be executed exclusively by dedicated volunteers from Heritage Port and the Port Stanley Terminal Railway. Those with inquiries about the Heritage Tour, or those interested in volunteer opportunities are welcome to contact Sally by email at tcg@execulink.com.. Additionally, visit the heritageportstanley.ca website to access the contact information for Chairperson, Ted Halwa. There will be a digital map on their website for discovering further details about these seven featured historical sites, and informative brochures will also be printed for the public to peruse. Asked what excites Sally about this highly anticipated event, she replies, “I enjoy very much sharing history with people -- and what a unique history we have!” AT KOOLEN ELECTRIC WE CAN DO IT ALL!

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Port Stanley Villager • June 2024 • Page 9

Handcrafted Kombucha in Port Stanley: From the Land by Peri Hayes Shannon Wyton discusses last month’s opening in Port Stanley of From the Land. Shannon proudly launched Booch Organic Kombucha nine years ago, presently operating their ongoing northeast London location where they produce kombucha and facilitate their Jungle Tap Room. Additionally, Booch Organic Kombucha’s products are sold at the Railway City Health Hut in the St. Thomas Elgin Centre. Being close to home, the lakeside village venue is special for Shannon, who explains, “I love the pace of life in Port Stanley and the ability to connect. It feels so good to be in this space. This is a unique location to bring gut health to the community while celebrating local artisans.” Shannon creates enchanting beauty in this woodland-themed atmosphere, with artwork to

explore on each wall - including handwritten notes from her loved ones. While Booch Organic Kombucha’s latest location serves refreshing kombucha on tap, customers are welcome to purchase it by can, cup, or litre. Shannon is excited to experience the foot traffic on the harbour alongside Laura, who presents a display of her exquisite jewelry. As well, Turtle Bird’s incredible mushroom mugs are available in-store. Pursue their reading material, essential oils, elixirs, fermented food, fire ciders, herbal teas and flower essences, tinctures, soaps, scrumptious sourdough, Shannon’s favourite Oracle deck of cards, and more. The creator of From the Land feels inspired to cultivate an empowering community where there is an opportunity to experience the natural world through products from Mother Earth. What most excites Shannon? “Finding a connection point with any person who’s coming in and witnessing them feeling joy; igniting this innate connection with health and nature,” Shannon reveals that she is in the beginning stages of envisioning what workshops -- for fire cider, jewelry and beyond, or even wreath making in the winter season -- can look like in this new space. From the Land is located at 208 Main Street, operating six days a week and closed on Tuesdays. For further information, visit From the Land Port Stanley on Facebook and fromtheland_ portstanley on Instagram. Moreover, contact Shannon at shannon@boochorganickombucha.com with inquiries about this healing business, which feels like a hug from the moment you walk through the door.

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The Association of Port Stanley Artists by Peri Hayes Marcia Pensa has been dedicatedly involved with the Association of Port Stanley Artists (APSA) since its inception, along with most of their members. Marcia introduces APSA‘s objective as: “One of a kind art created by Port Stanley and area artists, on a wall where so many people will be able to see and it’s easy to purchase!” On the upstairs level of the Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT), APSA has curated their exhibitions to coincide with the productions playing there -- including the upcoming Funny Valentine: A Michael Buble Tribute by Jay Davis. This spacious room is filled with natural daylight and overlooks the breathtaking harbour. Marcia, APSA’s President, enthuses, “It’s a good venue and an opportunity to exhibit in a place where there will be eyes on the art. We’re hoping for a really successful season. We want to see the art fly off the walls.” Inspiration is palpable in this creative environment, where visitors are welcome to enjoy the ever-changing displays of beautiful artwork, visible before PSFT performances and during intermission. All of the works displayed are available for purchase through the PSFT main floor Box Office. Marcia has been preparing several more exhibitions to be showcased throughout the season. In addition to PSFT, APSA artists are also featured at Port Stanley Dentistry. As Marcia exclaims, “I think this is important.” She highlights three benefits of securing a unique APSA piece. All sales will support the respective artist, the PSFT, and the appreciated customer who connects with the artwork on a meaningful level. Marcia concludes, “It’s lots of fun!”

Explore PSFT at 302 Bridge Street, with APSA displaying artwork in this location year-round. APSA’s exhibitions are open to the public during PSFT’s Box Office hours, with a percentage of each purchase directed toward PSFT. Connect with Marcia by emailing marciapensa@gmail.com. Alternatively, those seeking further information about APSA are encouraged to contact a representative at portstanleyartists@gmail.com. As well, featured artists will have their business cards presented on the window sill leading to the exhibition. Marcia Pensa of the APSA hanging art at the PSFT

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Port Stanley Villager • June 2024 • Page 11

Birders and Curlers at Port Stanley Festival Theatre This Summer by PSFT Artistic Director, Liz Gilroy A few years back I had the good fortune to perform in Kristen Da Silva’s show, Five Alarm , at Lighthouse Theatre in Port Dover. It is a very humorous play about a Chili Cookoff that all takes place on stage; we actually made the chilli! I must have chopped over 500 vegetables during the rehearsal and the run. I played the villain with the heart of gold desperately trying to hold on to her trophy and her winning streak, but things don’t always go as planned (no spoilers here). Kristen DaSilva is one of Canada’s best comedy writers, and this summer here at PSFT, we are so happy to be able to offer you her Canadian curling comedy, Hurry Hard . I read a plethora of scripts, looking for future productions on our stage, and I rarely laugh out loud. I can honestly say this is one of the funniest scripts I have ever read. Her dialogue is witty, the characters are relatable and outrageous at the same time, and you can’t help but cheer on the underdogs as they face possible annihilation. Come help us root for the Stayner Curling Club this summer, from July 17th to August 3rd. Norm Foster writes a good script; that is a given, but one of my favourites is Skin Flick . Again, a few years back at Lighthouse Theatre, I had the pleasure of playing Jill the ‘porn star’ in this laugh-a-minute ‘roll in the hay’.

Artistic Director Liz Gilroy starring in “Five Alarm” by Kristen Da Silva at Lighthouse Theatre in 2017. This season, Norm Foster’s comedy, They’re Found in Trees is gracing our stage, and it isn’t for the birds -- it’s about them. You’ll encounter William and Mitchell who meet every Saturday and discuss life, love, loss, and ladies’ underwear. Wanting to expand their club, they advertise for a new member and boy do they get a pleasant surprise. Our stellar cast includes; Andy Pogson (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Mirvish), Sarah Machin-Gale ( The Beaver Club ) and making his PSFT debut, Joshua Browne ( Murdoch Mysteries ). Norm says, “I love writing dialogue. I think that might be why I write stage plays and not novels. And also because novels seem like so much work! This play, They’re Found in Trees, puts me in a world of which I had no previous knowledge. So, I had to do a lot of research. I couldn’t just wing it (pardon the pun). I am writing a conversation between three very nice and unusual people, birders, as they are commonly known. I really like William, Mitchell, and Paula. And I think you will too.” I hope you join us this summer at the theatre -- we would love to see you in Port. 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 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 .

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Calipso Festival is Back! by Marna Berry, CEO, Travel Green Hey there, festival-goers! Ready to spice up your summer in Port Stanley? The Calipso Festival is back this summer, to bring a taste of the Caribbean to our shores, and you won’t want to miss out on the fun and excitement this vibrant event has to offer. We are excited to share that our

munity organization or enthusiast of Port Stanley’s culture, your sponsorship and volunteer support are vital in bringing the festival to life and creating unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. So, let’s come together, dance to the beat of southern music, savour the flavours of the Caribbean, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Join us at the Calipso Festival and be part of the magic that turns Port Stanley into a Caribbean paradise for a weekend! See you there!

Special Events application has been approved!! Picture this: a colourful Boat Parade, Neón Beach Party, rhythmic beats and mouthwatering cuisine, Pirates, Mermaids, Fireworks — it’s a fiesta for the senses! The festival is a celebration of diversity, music, and community spirit, where residents and visitors come together to dance, eat, and enjoy the tropical vibes right here in our lakeside village! From lively music performances and energetic acrobatic shows to delicious Caribbean dishes that will transport you to paradise, the Calipso Festival offers a smorgasbord of cultural delights that will leave you wanting more. And the fun doesn’t stop there! Dive into Arts and Crafts exhibits, theatre, Living History displays, antique car shows and The Canadian BombShell Beauties. Family-friendly activities like Pirate Captain Thom Bedlam’s Magic Show, sandcastle and bike decorating contests, Treasure Hunt, and boat and train rides all promise a weekend of entertainment for all ages.

Photos by Glen Minor from Hot Shoe Hustle

Now, here’s where you come in! We’re calling on businesses and residents to join us in making this year’s Calipso Festival the best yet. Whether you’re a local shop, restaurant, com- For Large Jobs, Small Jobs, Professionals and DIYers R-SAFETY has Everything for your Lawn & Garden Chainsaws,Edge Trimmers, Lawn Mowers, Blowers If you need it, we have it and if we don't we'll find it for you!

39 Burwell Road, St. Thomas, ON (519) 633-5884 • sales@r-safety.ca www.r-safety.ca

To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com

Port Stanley Villager • June 202 4 • Page 13

Looking for a New Shed this Summer?

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Now under new ownership

st.thomas@mollymaid.ca

Canada’s leading provider of time sensitive less than truckload (LTL) Stuart Rae

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A TFI International Company

Fabrics, Notions & Accessories Solids, Prints, Flannel, Fleece and more One Stop Shop for all your Quilting

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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • June 2024

Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com

Yet another ‘once in a lifetime’ celestial event occurred on May 10th when a historic geomagnetic force

According to the authors, the journalistic norm of balanced reporting was undermined to amplify misleading messages of contrarians. What’s that got to do with Port? The book’s title resonates with similar influences within CE. One example: The Aylmer Express quotes a rant on FB’s Accountability of Central Elgin forum by a former municipal employee denouncing the benefit to CE of the annexation deal with St Thomas. But wait, the post suddenly disappears once the damage of doubt is done. (For the curious, it just gets curiouser and curiouser.) If we could travel back 100 years and land on Bridge or Main St., we’d soon realize ‘we weren’t in Kansas anymore’ — or Port Stanley in the 1920s, as evidenced by photos of Port’s past in the Bell Medical Centre. My point? 10 years hence, Port Stanley will have become equally unfamiliar as the pace of change accelerates to meet the region’s growth. Our role in its transformation requires progressive development in concert with the region and ‘place-making’ within our community. Let’s bear in mind that what matters now is our small-town charm, which can prevail even as we become a thriving economy that serves a year-round population. When we practice our best future, we create it.

gave millions a dazzling display; the Northern Lights offered Port an unexpected spectacle. On Little Beach, people from far and near converged to scan the skies, welcomed by music drumming a primal beat out on the berm. It was awe-inspiring and memorable. Spring has sprung, heralded by the sounds of birdsong, the scent of lilacs, and the sight of boats afloat. Speaking of which, boaters beware -- deadheads are out there north of the bridge. Kettle Creek Stakeholders Association continues to press all three levels of government politicos to address dredging and clean-up of our beautiful creek; a navigable waterway ensures water safety and supports our local economy. Speaking of water activities, Derek Niles, Port resident and President of Orange Force Marine Ltd., provides maritime expertise for science research, hydrographic surveys, emer- gency response, water safety training, and tourism-related activities (in conjunction with Legends of Lake Erie) in Port Stanley. Beyond commercial activities, he also donates his expertise and his orange floating assets, the ‘Erie Guardian’ and the ‘Vigilant’ , to voluntarily serve as Unit # 544 in the Central & Arctic Region of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA). Derek, along with eleven other dedicated volunteers, provides Search and Rescue response to aid boaters in distress in the Canadian waters of Lake Erie, from Erieau to Long Point (that’s 2,400 sq. km!) When asking a crew member ‘why do you do it?’ (asking to remain unnamed), he responded, “There’s no better feeling than to serve our community and rescue those in trouble.” Fortunately, he lives among us. Merchants of Doubt by Oreskes and Conway explores how a handful of politically motivated experts “played a disproportionate role in debates about controversial questions,” resulting in “deliberate obfuscation” of issues influencing public opinion.

Wednesday July 10th 9am – 3pm Pinafore Park 95 Elm St., St. Thomas Celebrating a 25-Year Tradition of Music, Fun & Camaraderie

Join us for the

Seniors Picnic in

the Park

Bring a lawn chair

Music, Entertainment, Vendors, Car Show, Food Vendors & More!

To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com

Port Stanley Villager • June 2024 • Page 15

Get ‘ comfortable ’ with us! Get ‘ comfortable ’ with us!

www.abodehomecomfort.com www.abodehomecomfort.com Get ‘ comfortable ’ with us!

www.abodehomecomfort.com

226-799-2022

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