Port Stanley Villager October 2023 Issue 52
Letter from the Editor
check your own equipment, make sure you know the fastest ways to exit your home in case of emergency and make sure to share that info with your loved ones! If any of your equipment has expired, or if you don’t have a smoke alarm on every floor, or if you don’t have a CO detector, go get them and install them right away! While there, grab a fire extinguisher for your car. You may never need it, but you will be thankful you have it if you do. You could save someone else’s life, or it could be used to save your own! #Cindyslaw Okay, time to climb off my soap box. We have been working this past month on putting together another great issue for you. This month, we talk about Breast Cancer Awareness in Men and a new initiative a local survivor is passionate about. We promote a local fundraiser for Hospice of Elgin jointly hosted by the Port Stanley Optimists and the Lions Club of Port Stanley Lioness. We have articles on local artists, Fire Hall Fine Meats, and more! Tickets are now on sale for St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent, a talent show which the St. Thomas Seniors Centre and I are hosting on November 4th. Tickets are $10 cash and can be purchased at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre (225 Chestnut St., St. Thomas), Seasons St. Thomas (40 Ross St., St. Thomas), or by calling me at 519-495-7177 or by emailing me at geoff@villagerpublications.com -- I will accept e-transfer and I will deliver! All ticket sales for St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent will be donated to Hospice of Elgin. I hope you enjoy this issue and that you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Geoff
October 8th – 14th is Fire Prevention Week here in Canada. My home has smoke alarms on all three levels (including my base- ment), which are also CO detectors. Like most of us, I see the ads and comments reminding us at every sea- sonal time change to check our batteries, and most of the time, I remember to do so. But like most of us, I have likely been a little lax in my
fire prevention diligence. I haven’t had a fire drill for my home; I have not mapped out secure ways to escape. I always figured that if I had alarms, I would have enough time to escape. Frankly, I have no excuse other than I always think it won’t happen to me. A friend of mine lost their home and pets to a fire not too long ago. Just last weekend, I was stunned to see plumes of black smoke rolling from my neighbour’s yard. Thankfully, it was their detached garage that went up, not their home, and everyone made it out okay. But that jolt spurred me to go and check all my batteries and expiry dates and talk with my kiddo about how to escape our house in case of fire. Last year alone, in Ontario, we had 133 fire fatalities, which was a 20-year high. I would encourage you to take five minutes to
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Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • October 2023
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Michael J. Wilson’s Still Dancing by Peri Hayes
Still Dancing is available at Amazon, as well as the local I.D.A Highland Drug Mart. Mike is looking forward to connecting with the fellow poets of our society, as well as anyone who has supported or been motivated by his authentic work and deepest passion.
Michael J. Wilson, otherwise known in the lakeside village as Mike, released an outstanding work of poetry titled Still Dancing . Last spring, Mike celebrated with a book launch at Port Stanley Royal Canadian Legion Branch 410. With a dancing metaphor that effortlessly weaves through this work, Mike candidly shares, “I wasn’t able to write for quite a few years: I suffered a brain injury and had to start all over again. Still Dancing is me coming back.” Asked by doctors what he was eager to achieve during his journey to recovery, Mike promptly asserted, “To continue writing.” Through channelling his work ethic in commercial fishing, Mike has proudly fulfilled his goal. Still Dancing is a compilation of poems written over several years. There are two distinct parts in the book; the 17 poems in ‘Souvenirs” focus on the fishing culture in Port Stanley, while ‘Stagecraft’ with 21 pieces, covers a variety of subjects. While describing his poetry as eclectic, Mike details the ways in which he enjoys dedicating attention to the rhythm in his work. He confides confidently, “I like to write in such a way that I let the imagery create the form. If it’s a sonnet, then it will be a sonnet. If the poem is a free verse, then it will be that.” Mike reveals that, inspired by the energizing life and insightful people in this community, he often writes on the water. Running into residents and developing new connections in his hometown brings the accomplished poet abundant pleasure. Mike is known by his friends as a lifelong writer -- a ‘lifer’, a poet who persevered and refused to succumb to pressure. Mike fondly expresses, “Poetry is a dance between the writer and the reader. I love the art of poetry, so I studied it for my whole life.” The book’s cover image originates from a photograph of Mike and his grandson. Due to his mother’s adoration of this moment, she recreated the picture in a painting.
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Joan Clayton’s Connective Creative Gatherings by Peri Hayes For a number of years, Joan Clayton has been hosting social gatherings for those inspired by the arts. In addition to organizing the monthly Open Mic Poetry at Mykonos Restaurant in London, Joan also facilitates Creative Gatherings. She now has a property which lends itself to the latter, located at the red brick house of 493 George Street, Port Stanley. The group enjoyed the spacious yet cozy veranda on Sunday mornings during the summer months. Proud to be putting down roots in the lakeside village and connecting with the community, Joan enthusiastically offers, “This is a home that invites creativity.” Her favourite part thus far, Joan details, has been, “I am always excited by who is going to show up and what they are going to have. I like to hear people’s stories, in addition to offering a space for people to explore them. I like coming together and having fun with it.” The routine of these scheduled meetings renders a forum for the historical storyteller — a time to gather, present, and receive feedback — as she encourages, “It really does help your work!” Joan welcomes suggestions regarding alternative meeting times in order to accommodate those interested in attending Creative Gatherings. The gracious host emphasizes, “All genres and levels of experience are welcome!” Fiction and non-fiction writers, performers, poets, and more have all participated in Creative Gatherings. Joan continues, “My whole philosophy is this: I really believe that people need a place to bring and explore their creativity.” She strives to support fellow narrators as they discover where there is a story to be told, as well as how
Joan Clayton (right) and Creative Gatherings member, Gene Gray, enjoying Joan’s veranda.
they choose to use their voice. Art is an outlet, which, as Joan announces, “Keeps your soul alive.” Creative Gatherings are free opportunities for individuals to share their work with an embracing and supportive group, with the following upcoming dates: October 15th, November 12th, and December 10th. Joan will also be offering a Historical Storytelling Workshop in October at the St. Thomas Public Library. Moreover, Joan and a group of ambitious professionals created The Hadō Journal , which is filled with unique writing prompts to motivate creative expression. This is a wonderful resource for beginners and experienced writers to explore their voices. In the future, Joan is interested in providing a space for people to gather and paint, declaring, “This is just the beginning!” For further details, connect with the hospitable and charismatic Joan at 519-673-4091 and dr.jpclayton@rogers.com.
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Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • October 2023
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Raising a Glass for Hospice On Friday, October 20th, you and your friends have an opportunity to raise a glass of wine while raising money for Hospice of Elgin. The Lions Club of Port Stanley Lioness and the Optimist Club of Port Stanley are collaborating to host the Ladies Wine & Cheese Night at the Port Stanley Arena (332 Carlow Rd.). This is actually the 20th anniversary of the Wine & Cheese event for the Lionesses, but the first one since 2019. “We just think it’s time,” says Lioness Sue Nemett, one of the organizers. “We had 19 years of it, and then we just had to stop due to the pandemic restrictions. We are excited to bring it back because it’s always been a great community event.” Over those 19 years, the club raised and donated thousands of dollars to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital. “Women always loved the event,” says Marion Bishop, Optimists Vice-President, “I’ve gone before as a participant and really loved it. It is a great night where people get out of their chairs and are dancing and clapping.” While Sue says the actual formula for the event hasn’t changed, one of the big changes this year is the partnership with the Optimist Club of Port Stanley. The collaboration came about because of two factors. “We were down to half the numbers we used to have,” says Sue. “We just felt like we couldn’t do it on our own. So, the thought came – ‘I wonder if the Optimist will join with this?’ Secondly, the Optimists have also started working on projects with other groups and thought that this was a great opportunity to be a part of an event that could benefit the community.” Hoping to draw ladies from across the region, both groups are looking forward to donating as much as possible to Hospice of
Elgin so that soon it will become a reality in our county. Tickets are $30, available from any Lioness/Lion or Optimist member. Or you can contact Lioness/Lion Mary Lou MacKinnon at 519-933-3589, or email dwmlmackinnon@gmail.com. “Port is expanding, like all neighbourhoods,” says Dorothy Cook, President of the Lionesses. “With all these new neighbours coming into town, we’d like them to see what goes on in this village and where our money goes.” So, get your girlfriends together and get ready for a fun night out supporting an amazing cause! Lioness Dorothy Cook, Optimist Marion Bishop and Lioness Sue Nemett working together for the Ladies Wine & Cheese Night on October 20th.
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2023 • Page 5
Fall Fashion by Kim Ariesen, Owner Studio Style Ladies Apparel With the Fall season upon us, it’s apparent that this season has taken a cue from the Eighties. Plaid, hounds- tooth, an array of colours and classic silhouettes are on center stage for Fall’23.
The early eighties were a time when colour and style were fairly quiet, with a focus on earth tones and simplicity in design. Today, there’s a nod to that time with neutrals back in vogue and with an emphasis on ivory, nude and coffee colours. By the mid-eighties, bold colours, pop music, and the workout movement became trendy with fashion designers. This influence became commercially successful and some of this is shown in today’s fashion! Exaggerated shoulder pads and stirrups are good examples of this -- and even though they’re not coming back, there’s a take on shoulder details, including soft shoulder pads and gathered sleeves that has been emerging in design, as well, leggings and skinny jeans which have roots from the eighties stirrups have been in style for the last few years. Skinny jeans aren’t on trend but are still being shown and available while leggings are still being offered. Colour is always a big part of any season and what makes each season unique. The Pantone Color Institute claimed this year to be ‘Viva Magenta,’ a year of pinks, fuchsia and berry tones and, with a focus on the Barbie movie, the colour pink has become important for this year. Fuchsia pink was the big
colour in the mid-late eighties, paired with other intense colours of royal tones of blue and purple. Fall’23 has incorporated pink as a key colour trend but also has added many colours and neutrals to its lineup. Mauves, lavender, and other shades of orchid pink, including plum and purples, offer a softness that brings newness to this season. There are rich shades of red being displayed in varying tones from cranberry, burgundy, and garnet to clear red. Blue is always a driving force for any season and always makes an impression with its vibrancy! This Fall, blue hues of cobalt and French blue are highlighted along with the different shades of green showing up in sage, forest and jade. Green tones of mint and aqua have made an unusual appearance this season. And of course, this Autumn would not be complete without the strong designs in black and winter white! Black and white are always classic and timeless, and an eighties vibe of houndstooth, glen checks, and plaid combinations make this season even more notable. Houndstooth designs were first
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denim is key to its styling, and all shades of denim are current, from light vintage tones to mid-denim to dark shades. Denim jean styles are varied from slim and straight to relaxed to flared, with the ‘girlfriend‘ styling being the easiest fit and silhouette to wear. Jean jackets are another key item along with the ever-classic ‘moto’ styled leather or plea- ther jacket. Accessories are also back on the forefront, with scarves in solids and prints adding warmth and style and jewel- lery adding elegance. Both metals of silver and gold and mixing metals are still the rage. Layering neck- laces and bracelets is key but also statement pie- ces are prominent.
Any look can be elevated with accessories, creating your own individual style! This autumn has added in the best from the eighties and resonates with sophisticated styling with flair, beautiful colours and updated classics.
519-631-1333 • 6804 Sunset Drive Beside the Masonic Centre and Shaw's Denim is another item that won’t be going away any time too soon. Whether casual or worn in a stylish way, jeans are a forever versatile and essential wardrobe item. The patina of introduced in the 1880s and originated in the Scottish Lowlands. Its popularity began in the twenties and thirties, and thanks to Coco Chanel, it became synonymous with luxury and wealth. Houndstooth became popular in the forties, in the sixties and tremendously noted in the eighties. Houndstooth, herringbone and plaids have made a significant impact for Fall’23 as a key trend to watch out for. With the arrival of trouser pants, classic jeans, and blazers, the ‘eighties feel’ speaks volumes about the silhouettes and looks for this season with a modern take on clean, classic lines showcasing a ‘ladies cut.’ Cardigans, coatigans, and coats are always functional and cozy but are more stylish and have a bigger presence this season. Coats such as colourful short puffers, mid-length toppers to long cloth coats are all being featured, especially knit coats.
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Port Stanley Villager • Octoberr 2023 • Page 7
The Bottoni Project, “No more shame, no more stigma, and no more silence!” by Peri Hayes Former teacher and ‘very fortunate’ breast cancer survivor, Brian Lynch, passionately discusses The Bottoni Project. Brian was treated in 2021 and launched this initiative in October of that same year alongside his doctor, David Bottoni (Dave). The Bottoni Project was named in honour of David, who created an immensely appreciated, comfortable and safe space for his patient. Brian expresses gratitude for all of the wonderful care that he received throughout his healing journey. Due to the stigmatization surrounding male breast cancer — and the shame felt as a result —numerous impactful stories of its victims are seldom heard, nor told. Brian urges, “This is a disease that men get too.” Through The Bottoni Project, Brian strives to increase awareness, and education on the signs and symptoms, research, and support systems for men diagnosed with breast cancer. As Brain details, the waiting rooms are decorated with feminine taste. With The Bottoni Project focused on validating the male experience, Brian has designed a breast cancer ribbon (pin) with blue and pink colours to advance representation. David has been working at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital for just over 10 years, completing a number of cancer-related surgeries, specifically breast cancer. “I take pride in my work and in helping people through,” he confides. “Resources for men are important, yet inaccessible in Canada. Brian is very passionate about this, and he opened my eyes to it; there aren’t resources for men.” The pair share an earnest objective to deter
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those affected by male breast cancer from suffering in silence. David candidly reveals, “There is a special motivation, having had my mom go through and unfortunately, pass away from it. This is a driving factor. If we can give people awareness and the comfort to present their concerns to their doctor and specialist, I think we’re doing a wonderful thing.” The Inaugural Bottoni Ride debuted in August at Rocky’s Harley-Davidson, located at 900 Wilton Grove Road, London, directing proceeds toward the MRI fund at the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH). Due to the outpouring of community support, Brian and David have already begun planning another fundraiser for next year. Moreover, they are designing leather jackets for the occasion. As Brian compassionately points out, “Of the 250 men that are diagnosed every year with breast cancer in Canada, 55 will die. I want the men who are sitting in the weeds to know that somebody is speaking for them right now.” Asked what most excites Brian about The Bottoni Project, he replies, “The potential that a man who has had breast cancer will hear what we’re doing and feel that we are his voice too.” Breast cancer in men is treatable but must be recognized first. Brian, an absolute ray of sunshine, concludes, “Maybe the silver lining of this whole situation is that I can make a difference. Tell the men in your life to check. No more shame, no more stigma, and no more silence!” For more information, visit steghfoundation.ca/appeal/bottoni- project, or email thebottoniproject@rogers.com.
Left: Brian Lynch with Dr. David Bottoni of The Bottoni Project, together bringing awareness to Breast Cancer in men.
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2023 • Page 9
Friendly Service and Fresh Products at Fire Hall Fine Meats by Peri Hayes On July 1st, 2022, Sue Ann Moyer and Caleb Fothergill’s Fire Hall Fine Meats opened for business. With abundant experience working in the food production industry, Sue Ann had been approached with an incredible offer to utilize space at the Fire Hall Market. Upon thoughtful consideration, Sue Ann and Caleb launched their now highly regarded business. When asked what sets their service apart, Sue Ann proudly emphasizes their integrity: “We work really hard to keep high quality, fairly priced products. Customer service and satisfaction is our number one priority.” Caleb adds emphatically, “Fresh, local, quality meats!”
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To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com “We are expanding to include seafood in the very near future,” Sue Ann avidly divulges. Once their supplier is solidified, Sue Ann gleefully asserts, “We will have the surf and the turf!” Located at 218 Joseph Street in Port Stanley, Fire Hall Fine Meats operates seven days a week — 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM — from Thanksgiving weekend until Easter weekend. While they will soon be closed on Wednesdays, their hours will otherwise remain. Fire Hall Fine Meats has an active social media presence, with its website currently being built. Call 519-670-1397 for more information about the business and connect with Sue Ann and Caleb prior to your visit if you are seeking a particular product or are interested in arranging an efficient pick-up. Sue Ann cheerfully concludes, “Fire Hall Fine Meats can only continue to flourish. Support your local services!” Sue Ann speaks highly of the work dynamic between herself and her business partner, depicting the ways in which there is a consistent and effortless balance between the like-minded pair. She enthusiastically reveals what delights her about Fire Hall Fine Meats: “The growth! It excites us when we hear positive feedback, as well as to connect with the community.” Fire Hall Fine Meats offers an extensive meat selection to include more affordable cuts. Sue Ann and Caleb also offer everyday sales. Apart from meat pies, their freezer products are always discounted 10%. Additionally, they offer customizable packages called The Butcher Box, which can include your pick of anything featured in the freezer — minus the meat pies — for no more than $100.00. Due to limited space, not all of their products are displayed. Inquire about the goods you are looking for, and — when achievable — your request will be delivered to the market within a few days. “If you don’t see it, ask us,” Sue Ann encourages.
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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • October 2023
Saved by the Beep by Peri Hayes On September 13th, the County Fire Chiefs met at the Malahide South Station (Station 5) on John Wise Line and Imperial Road for a kick-off of their new smoke alarm campaign. The campaign encourages residents of the City of St. Thomas, the Town of Aylmer, and the Townships and Municipalities within the County of Elgin to test their smoke alarms on September 28th as part of Test Your Smoke Alarm Day. Participants were invited to take a picture with their loved ones testing their smoke alarms, and to post it to social media using the #SavedByTheBeep hashtag. Along with fire service partners across the province, the Office of the Fire Marshal (OFM) is asking Ontarians to test their smoke alarms regularly. Raymond Ormerod, Director of Fire Rescue Services and Fire Chief with Central Elgin, offers, “It is hoped that this program and fire safety will be taken seriously by residents.” Aman Kainth, Senior Manager of Public Education and Communication at the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency
Management, details the horrific truth that 133 lives were lost to fires last year. This is the highest number of fatalities in over 20 years. In many of these cases, a working smoke alarm was not present on the property. Saved by the Beep is a fun and informative campaign intended to ensure safety and is a reminder to have smoke alarms installed in your home, as well as to confirm that they are functioning properly. An array of informative literature is accessible on the Saved by the Beep website, which has been translated into the top 19 languages in Canada. It is crucial — and can even be life-saving — for residents to examine their fire alarm every month, as well as to prepare efficient fire escape plans. Aman expresses her hope for citizens to routinely practice these habits. Contact your local fire department for assistance with checking your alarm, and visit savedbythebeep.ca for more information about this imperative initiative.
October 8th – 14th is Fire Prevention Week. This year’s theme is
Cooking Safety starts with YOU! Pay attention to fire prevention!
Fire Chiefs from around Elgin gather to kick off the Saved by the Beep Campaign. September 28th was Test Your Smoke Alarm Day. Names from left to right: Todd McKone – Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief, Aylmer Fire Department. Raymond Ormerod – Director of Fire Rescue Services/ Fire Chief/CEMC, Central Elgin. Jeff Spoor - Director of Fire & Emergency Services/Fire Chief, Township of Malahide. Aman Kainth – Senior Manager of Public Education, OFM. Jeff McArthur – Director of Emergency Services/Fire Chief, Township of Southwold and Municipality of West Elgin. Harry Baranik – Director of Fire & Emergency Services/Fire Chief, Municipality of Bayham, Dave Gregory – Fire Chief, City of St. Thomas
Be sure to check your smoke and CO alarms expiry date and change the batteries! Ray Ormerod Director of Fire Rescue Services/Fire Chief (519) 631- 4860 Ext. 249 r ormerod@centralelgin.org
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2023 • Page 11
It’s all at the Library! “The only thing that you absolutely have to know, is the location of the library” – Albert Einstein Kids, tweens, teens and adults, our local library has so much planned for October. Weekly Craft Club : Every Monday at 2 pm join us for coffee/tea and a small craft. Everyone welcome. Kids Club : Every Monday from 5:30 - 6:30 pm join us for a story, games, and a craft. Grades 1 and up, JK/SK with a caregiver. Men’s Club : Every Monday at 10 am Pop in for a chat and coffee to see what it is all about. Pre-School Storytime : Every Tuesday at 10:00 am join us for songs, stories & crafts! Ages 0 to 5 and their caregiver. Knitting Group : Every Tuesday at 2 pm bring your projects and meet new people. Everybody welcome.
Special Events YWCA Computer Classes at the Port Stanley Library on Thursdays at 10 am October 19: Phone/Tablet Apps and Icons October 26: Social Media Teen Escape Room Challenge , October 7th at 11 am or 12 pm For youth grades 6 to 12. Grab some friends and join us, or we can add you to a group for a fun and challenging activity. Sign up today, as space is limited. Card Making Monday, October 8th from 1 to 3 pm create a handmade card with Jean. Cost: $8 Please pre-register. Scrapbooking Monday, October 15th from 10 am to 12 pm. Organize your photos. Cost: $5. Please pre-register. Author Panel Join us on Wednesday, October 18th at 1 pm at the Port Stanley Theatre for a Q&A with four local Elgin County authors: Lisa King, Ginger Bolton, Jennifer Jacqueline, and Bev Irwin. Refreshments will be served afterward in the Port Stanley Library. Get your tickets at the front desk of the Library. Henry James Display November 2: Online Shopping November 9: Online Calendars Stork Club Drop in to appreciate some interesting Stork Club history. October 16 to 21 : In memory of Joe Van De Velde (The Swingmasters). ADULT BOOK CLUB Thursday, October 19th, at 6 pm. Ask for a copy of the book at our front desk. Everybody welcome.
Port Stanley Villager Geoffrey Rae, Managing Editor /Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoffrey Rae unless otherwise indicated. Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher – Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com
Calling all knitters Together we can bring the warmth of the season to our fellow people!
The weather is starting to turn, and it is cold outside. Please knit some extra mittens, hats, scarves, blankets, sweaters etc. for those in need. There are many places and people who could use them. If you would like me to pick up your knitting, give me a call at 519-495-7177 or email geoff@villagerpublications. com and I’ll be happy to arrange a pickup. NEW this year we are working with Simply Pure Water, so if you would prefer to drop off knitting drop it off with Chris, Jame and the team!
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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • October 2023
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200th Birthday Celebratrions
by Marna Berry, CEO, Travel Green Did you know that in 2024, Port Stanley is celebrating its 200th Birthday? Port Stanley has great historical value and was the site where Adrien Jolliet landed in 1669, during the first descent of
the lakes made by Europeans. Port also housed General Brock’s expedition, encamped on the beach in 1812 on its way to Detroit. My family roots here date back to 1812 when a settlement named Kettle Creek was founded by Lieutenant-Colonel John Bostwick. In 1824, it was renamed Port Stanley. Did you know the Stanley Cup was commissioned in 1892 by Lord Stanley of Preston, our namesake? Wouldn’t it be amazing to have the Stanley Cup for a visit for our birthday!! With such an iconic historical marker, it’s time to give back and celebrate. “The Environmental Impact Committee of the PSVA is collaborating with the students and staff of Kettle Creek Public School on an exciting project to celebrate the 200th birthday of Port Stanley.” Port Stanley Village Association adds, “200 Trees are being planted on the berm in Port Stanley in 2024.” One of our most endearing qualities is our LOVE of celebrations!! From the booming Stork Club days till the present, Port has all the ingredients for an outstanding event venue!
To embrace this historical year, the plans for the big birthday party have begun. “Along with the yearly festivals and celebrations that happen annually in Port, such as Calipso Festival, Dickens Days and the Holiday Market, we are looking to celebrate Port with 200 events throughout the year. We are in discussions to partner with Ryan Featherstone (Dickens Days) and Marna Berry (Calipso Festival) to expand on those events,” says Michelle Graham, Ward 1 Councillor. The Municipality of Central Elgin’s mayor, Andrew Sloan, and Port Stanley’s representative from Ward 1, Councillor Michelle Graham, have formed a ten-person committee from the Port community. “It is a grand undertaking, but we are confident that with our carefully selected committee, we will be able to hit this mark,” says Councillor Graham. “We look to have a diverse set of events that is inclusive for all. The events will be for people of all age groups, levels of ability and ethnicities. We will create a page advising of events and progress. We look forward to community input, so please do contact me if you have ideas,” adds Councilor Michelle Graham. If you would like to contact Councilor Graham she can be reached at 519-852-2888 or mgraham@centralelgin.org. --
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2023 • Page 13
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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • October 2023
Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com
WoWza! By funding Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) Canada, which
Council was evident; she won! Soon after, her performance at Council meetings was a complete turnaround. Other Council members declined to comment, governed by the confidentiality agreement which she repeatedly transgressed, politicizing Council proceedings on social media. What ensued has ultimately required the Council’s rejection of the Integrity Commissioner’s report and with good cause. (See Michelle Graham’s post on FB Accountability Central Elgin for full details.) It could be a tale of Henny Penny, or the Turncoat, or the Trojan horse, any one of which inspires questions: Why such dedicated effort to undermine the credibility of a new mayor? At what cost? To what end? Such targeted, petty attacks in an environment of external change are distracting, destructive, and irresponsible. (Our former mayor and her associated cronies sure ain’t helpin’ Cr. Halpin’s political future and that of their (and our) municipality.) Our Council is contending with unprecedented challenges, and to sustain blame for everything gone wrong after ten months’ tenure is entirely untenable and predictably the purview of local political hacks. Let’s move forward and look up! Consider the methods of the masters in ‘going the distance’: in flight, Canada geese follow the lead at the point in V formation to reduce resistance, honking encouragement. Doesn’t that sound ‘progressive by nature’? When we practice our best future, we create it.
maintains ecosystem services on agricultural lands, the province has directed over $500K to protect at-risk species and their habitats in Southwestern Ontario. Oddly at odds with that, the Ontario Housing Minister’s Chief of Staff has resigned amidst the Green Belt scandal. It appears like a case of appeasing the public while pleasing developers. Our MPP, Rob Flack, has become Associate Minister of Housing with a mandate on attainable housing and modular homes. One hopes that will be of benefit to us. Best wishes to all at James St. Home Decor! We wait with bated breath to know who will ‘fill the bill’ and windows! In October, we tuck into turkey, often surrounded by turkeys. As in the past, but most especially post-COVID, let’s remember our family by choice and circumstance. Congratulations to PSFT for a season of especially live theatre! See psft.ca regarding upcoming tribute bands. Mayor Sloan has struck the 200 Task Force, which is coordinating commemorating Port’s 2024 bicentenary… stay tuned to see how you can get involved. All those who attended the funeral service for the late Don MacKinnon honoured the memory of a devoted family man who served his community as a business owner and a longstanding and outstanding member of PS United Church and PS Lions Club. His gift for storytelling reflected his humour and genuine appreciation for humanity and history. Condolences to Mary Lou and her family, Don will be well remembered. The orderly transfer of power is integral to our democracy: Ms. Martyn and Mr. Trump are evidence of an old guard unwilling to accept its core tenet. Councillor Halpin was elected by Ward 2 over Sally Martyn, and Cr. Halpin became an echo of her defeated opponent. Say what?!? I met Morgaine Halpin at the Firehall Market Meet and Greet, and in no time, we were at my kitchen table strategizing her campaign. Her passion ‘to be the change’ as a candidate for a clean sweep
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To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Port Stanley Villager • October 2023 • Page 15
RESPITE CARE AVAILABLE Retirement at its Finest
Talbot Manor is proud to offer respite services to the community. Whether you are recovering from surgery and need extra support or if loved ones are going on vacation, Talbot Manor is a perfect solution.
With his fluid phrasing, resonant tone, and expressive performances, one could believe Spencer Mackenzie was born on Beale Street. They, however, would be wrong. The lauded JUNO-nominated blues-rock artist hails from Southern Ontario and has steadily earned accolades, and the attention of blues aficionados worldwide, since his first studio album in 2016. Leaving nothing behind when he steps to the stage, Mackenzie offers show goers a powerhouse performance, commanding his guitar with sophistication and prowess beyond his years.
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