Port Stanley Villager December 2024 Issue 64
Letter from the Editor Happy December, everyone! First, let me address what happened to our November issues. Just as we were preparing in October to go to press for the November issues, we received word that Canada Post was likely going on strike right as our magazines were scheduled to be sent out. Now, I love Canada Post, and there are many reasons
Once again, through Hometown St. Thomas, Boomers & Beyond , and the Port Stanley Villager , we have partnered with the local community to support the non-profit Smiles for Seniors at Christmas through our Care to Share a Smile campaign. As you flip through the magazines, you’ll see ads with a little Santa logo on them; each one represents a donation to this initiative. These cash donations are used to buy Christmas gifts for seniors living in long-term care throughout the county. This year, we’re proud to have donated $2,875, bringing our total over the past seven years to more than $15,000. Speaking of helping the community. St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 2 wrapped up this past month with a sizeable donation of over $3300 headed towards Hospice of Elgin. What a fun and great event. We are already looking forward to next year, so if you are over 55+ and have a talent you would like to share, start practising! To our wonderful readers of The Port Stanley Villager , we wish you a very merry Christmas and happy holidays! Thank you for being part of our community and for bringing your support and enthusiasm to each issue. We’re grateful for the opportunity to share local stories, events, and highlights with you throughout the year. May your holiday season be filled with warmth, joy, and memorable moments. And here’s to a fantastic New Year ahead!
why I choose to deliver thousands of magazines each month through them; most importantly, I truly believe Canada Post is extremely reliable. However, given the information we had at the time, we decided it wasn’t worth the risk of having all our magazines sitting in a warehouse during a potential strike. After careful consideration, all the managers of the Villager Publications agreed that not going through Canada Post for the November issue was the right call. We printed our usual number of magazines and worked with various partners throughout the community to get them into your hands. We thank you for your continued readership and truly hope this doesn’t happen again! I am very excited about this issue, as we once again present the Port Stanley Villager Holiday Gift Guide . Our writer, Peri, visited many local shops and gathered a wide variety of items for everyone on your shopping list from right here in Port Stanley, Union, and Sparta. I hope you use this guide as a springboard for your holiday shopping and as much as possible this year, support local shops.
Port Stanley Villager magazin e has partnered with local businesses to help share the joy of Christmas with local seniors. Search this magazine for this Santa logo, and each time you find him, you will see a business that cared about sharing a smile this Christmas. Each of these Santas represents gifts given to local seniors through the Smiles for Seniors at Christmas How you can win!
program. This year, with the support of our local businesses, we have been able to donate $3,300, and over four years, we have given more than $15,000 in total. If you can spot all the Santas, you, too, have a chance to win. Count the Santas and send an email with your name, phone number and the name of this magazine to hometown@ villagerpublications.com with the correct number of Santas for your chance to win. On December 15th, we will randomly draw one name from the correct entries, and you could win a $50 Pepper Spice Tree gift certificate just in time for Christmas!
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A Stage for All Seasons The Port Stanley Bandshell Committee, led by Chairman, Ed Finlan, is progressing with its vision for a community bandshell as part of the Central Elgin Waterfront Master Plan. “The plan has designated two potential sites – Hofhuis Park and the Berm – as possible locations for a venue, whether a bandshell or an auditorium,” Ed explains. Following public consultations conducted around the start of COVID-19, there was strong community support for a performance venue, prompting the committee to bring the concept to life. With backing from Central Elgin Council, Ed and a committee of eleven passionate members began raising funds. “I approached Council on November 13, 2023, to present our idea and seek their support,” he notes. The Council, supportive but clear that they could not financially back the project, encouraged the committee to pursue external funding and grants. Already, the committee has raised approximately $25,000 through a range of events, including concerts, a golf tournament, and this year’s New Year’s Eve party. Ed hopes to continue building on this momentum to cover initial costs, even though a bandshell is estimated to cost between $800,000 and $1 million. He and his wife, Jane, both experienced in grant writing, plan to apply for provincial infrastructure grants to bolster funding. The Port Stanley Bandshell Committee is committed to maintaining transparency throughout the process. “We’re open to suggestions and feedback,” Ed emphasizes, stressing the
importance of community involvement. To ensure a collaborative approach, a steering committee that includes two Council members, two staff members, and two committee members has been established to work on design and site planning. “This is a community project, and we want everyone to be part of it,” he adds. For Ed, the value of a bandshell extends beyond music per- formances. Reflecting on his own experience playing in bandshells across Ontario, he notes, “These spaces become a focal point for communities. They host picnics, dance parties, art shows, and even outdoor theatre. It’s a gathering space, not just a stage.” The vision is to create a welcoming environment with shaded benches and open green spaces, encouraging families to enjoy the park and fostering a sense of togetherness. In addition to fostering community connection, the bandshell will create new opportunities for local performers, especially young artists. “It’s important to provide children a platform for performing arts, whether it’s music or theatre,” Ed emphasizes. Proper management will be key to ensuring an accessible and engaging schedule for all community members, allowing the bandshell to serve as a cultural hub. To learn more or share input on the Port Stanley bandshell project, Ed invites community members to reach out at efinlan3@gmail.com.
GIFT UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS! them with a ticket to entertainment.
A perfect gift for family & friends!
GIFT CERTIFICATES SEASON SUBSCRIPTIONS SINGLE TICKETS Great performances should be shared. PortStanleyFestival FestivalTheatre
www.psft.ca 519-782-4353
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 3
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. 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
Thursday December 19th, 2024 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley We will discuss Such Big Dreams by Reema Patel. 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. Tuesday, December 24th, 2024 Christmas Open House Port Stanley Library, 10 am – 12 pm Join us for refreshments. 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.
Saturday, November 30th & Sunday, December 1st, 2024 Dickens’ Days Throughout Port Stanley Enjoy a second helping of Port Stanley Dickens’ Days throughout the community. Horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, warming stations and great deals from our local merchants! Monday, December 2nd, 2024 Port Stanley Art Guild Accepting New Members Port Stanley United Church, 7 pm 239 Colborne St, Port Stanley Wanting to connect with our art community? Check out our website for details and contact us for more info. www.portstanleyartguild.com Monday December 11th, 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.
Port Stanley Villager
Happy Holidays from the staff at the Port Stanley Library Christmas Holiday Hours are: Closed Tues Dec 24th 1pm – Thu Jan 2 Reopen Friday, January 3rd at 9:30 am
Our Regular Hours are: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays 9:30 am – 7 pm
Fridays 9:30 am – 5 pm Saturdays 9 am – 1 pm
Port Stanley Library 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley (519) 782-4241 www.elgincounty.ca/library
May your Christmas be M erry & B right From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!
519-773-8951 or 519-631-0590 www.koolenelectric.ca IN POWER. SINCE 1920
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Closer to home, the Port Stanley Village Association (PSVA) took a big step toward, fostering local engagement in Ward 1 by releasing results from its community survey last month. Alongside Mayor Sloan and Councillor Graham, I attended as the PSVA shared insights from their months of effort. The findings highlighted a wide range of ideas for capital and infrastructure projects, spanning immediate and long-term goals. As we prioritize projects that matter to our community, bringing everyone’s voices into our planning is vital. It feels like everyone I talk to has a holiday bringing them together with loved ones this month! Merry Christmas from mine to yours, in whatever brings you love and joy, and warm wishes for the year to come. FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6 FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6 FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6 FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6
Councillor’s Corner by Morgaine Griffin This month, I had the honour of participating in the Association of Municipalities of Ontario’s Healthy Democracy Project. October marked the halfway point of this Council term, and now it’s time to look forward and ask how we can make participation in local democracy more accessible. At the conference, we discussed approaches to make voting and running for office as inclusive as possible, empowering all members of our community to get involved. We learned from case studies and candidates juggling school, work, or parenting, newcomers, people with disabilities, and more. The resilience and drive of the people around us is so inspiring. I’m excited to bring these conversations home and ensure that everyone feels connected and represented in our government and that participation feels feasible — not overwhelming. AD SAVE AD SAVE
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 5 BRING THE OUTSIDE IN
Year in Review by Mayor Andrew Sloan 2024 was a landmark year for the Municipality of Central Elgin: a year of honouring our history, of making history, and of reimagining the present for a new life into the future. The 200th anniversary of the Village of Port Stanley was a strong theme from the beginning. The various community events and initiatives, including the 200 Trees for 200 Years project, have been a fitting tribute to this impressive birthday and reflect the pride and love that Port Stanley residents share for our beautiful Village. In April we observed the celestial wonder of the total solar eclipse, which brought thousands of visitors to our community along with unprecedented logistical considerations for that once-in-a-lifetime event. I am very proud of the hard work and collaboration between municipal staff, first responders, local businesses, and neighbouring municipalities that made it a day we will all fondly remember. Central Elgin made history again in April with the settlement of the compensation negotiations with the City of St. Thomas in relation to the municipal boundary adjustment brought about by Bill 63, St. Thomas - Central Elgin Boundary Adjustment Act, 2023. The deal helped to secure the municipality’s future by unlocking growth and development opportunities and providing an up-front payment of $15 million that will support fiscal sustainability for ratepayers today and tomorrow. Part of that agreement is that the Province of Ontario will be working with the municipality on the future sale of the former St. Thomas Psychiatric Hospital property as part of the Site Preparation Pilot Program. The site will be repurposed for
THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
May the Christmas Season Bring you Peace and Joy.
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Page 6 Port Stanley Villager • December 2024
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residential development that will contribute to provincial housing targets, further expand the Municipality’s tax base, and provide local housing and commercial options as the Municipality grows in relation to the nearby PowerCo facility. This project has become a major area of focus and priority for Council over the course of the year and will continue to be an ongoing agenda item into 2025 as we carefully consider the opportunities it will bring. Led by our Chief Administrative Officer Carey Herd, who we were honoured to welcome in May, a team of experts is supporting Council in working with the Province to explore the possibility of Central Elgin taking a lead role in the redevelopment of this significant property in our community. While there are still many questions, we know that the site has been a fixture of Central Elgin since the hospital was built in the 1930s, and there is no doubt that it will continue to shape our local landscape whatever its future holds. As we prepare for a new year, a major theme for Council and I will be responsible growth and ensuring that the community’s roots hold firm in light of this period of transformation. A key component of this, and something that has been very important to me as Mayor, is engagement and making sure that current residents have their voices heard. I have enjoyed holding Mayor’s Office Hours throughout 2024 to connect with constituents and get their input on the local issues that impact us all. Additionally, returning the Ward 1, Ward 4, and Ward 5 Town Halls and adding the recent Ward 3 Town Hall provided opportunities to check in with community members, share updates from Council, and receive feedback on how things are going in the second year of the term. I look forward to continuing these events in 2025 and adding more ways for people to join the conversation.
Getting the trees ready. Photo by Sandra Elfman
I would like to sincerely thank all of the community organizations and small businesses whose dedication throughout the years helps to make Port Stanley and Central Elgin such a great place to live and visit. We truly have so much to celebrate during this bicentennial but the heart of it always has been and always will be the people. It is an honour to count myself as a member of this community. All best wishes for a wonderful year ahead.
Celebrate the Spirit of the Season! Merry Christmas!
Calling all knitters
Together we can bring the warmth of the season to our fellow people!
Barnacles Gift Cards make great stocking stuffers.
Best pizza, wings and burgers in town! Open all winter. Take-out available. Great for private functions.
170 Williams Street, Port Stanley (519) 782-7272
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. W e are working with Simply Pure Water, so if you would prefer to drop off knitting drop it off with Chris, Jame and the team!
From our family to yours Happy Holidays!
123 Wellington St., St. Thomas 519-637-3306
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 7
2024 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide
by Peri Hayes
Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles
Drift Visit Lisa and Michael Fair- weather’s Drift at 211 Main Street and explore their en- chanting Driftwood Christmas Tree. With reference to the starfish ornament placed atop the tree in this image, there is certainly an optionable beach theme for those wishing to incorporate their connection to the lakeside village.
Located at 46361 Sparta Line are Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles’ incredible se- lection of candles, offered in an array of scents. Enjoy your choice of seasonal fragrance in your home, with delightful options which include ‘Cinna- mon Hearts,’ ‘Cookie Crunch,’ ‘Cranberry,’ ‘Winterberry’ and much more to be explored in-store and online. Art Emporium
Ultimately, this piece presents an exciting opportunity for de- corating in accordance with your personalized vision. Frankly Scarlett
With Southwestern Ontario artists featured throughout Art Emporium, visit the local gallery at 177 Main Street and explore Barb Gammon’s stained glass ornaments. These delightful pieces are
Owner of Frankly Scarlett Fashion Bou- tique, Susan Elgie, delightedly introdu- ces their selection of magnificent jew- elry. Suitable for an array of festivities, the pieces presented in this accompanying
both festive and varying in price. This collection of lovely de- corations is also a personal favourite of proud Owner Bea Peraza during the holiday season.
photo are lead and nickel-free. Moreover, pearl and coin detailing are featured throughout their abundant display. Frankly Scarlett is located at 197 Main Street, operating daily between the hours of 11:00 am and 4:00 pm.
Christmas OUTDOOR URNS · FRESH GREENS CHRISTMAS TREESS · POINSETTIAS CENTREPIECES · HOLIDAY GIFTS HOME DÉCOR & MORE! DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF
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for the Holiday Season!
Enjoy the magic of the season, feel it, believe it, embrace it!
Visit the Studio for Great Gift Giving Ideas . Gift Certificates available.
To the community that we love, Merry Christmas from the Port Stanley Lions
215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca OPEN Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 5pm
Kim Ariesen, Proprietor
Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • December 2024
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festive cushions complementary to your holiday decor. During your visit, be sure to peruse their array of stocking stuffer goodies, which includes huggable teddy bears, miniature snow globes and much more. Joshua & Company Enjoy the ambiance of Joshua & Company’s new Stony Creek decorative orbs, night lights and pre-lit, plug-in vases. This business is proudly operated by mother and daughter duo, Judy and Tracy Sheridan. Tracy exclaims, “With several styles and patterns to choose from, this is sure to make a wonderful gift.” Located at 194 Main Street, visit Joshua & Company to purchase this exquisite piece. Lake House Books Visit the wonderful Rachael Lake at the highly regarded Lake House Books. Choose between your favourite — or even select both — of their featured Flame Tree Journals. These popular Journals are available for $21.00, presented with a gorgeous foil cover. Operating Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. Lake House Books is located at 302 Bridge Street, Unit 1.
From the Land Owner of From the Land, Shannon Wyton, is thrilled to be featuring their Fire Cider — a folk recipe which is followed by herbalists across the world. Shannon shares, “This is a really great wellness shot for
the winter season, and can be incorporated into soups and stews.” Their versatile Fire Cider can add flavour to your salad dressing, or even spice up your Caesar. From the Land operates Thursday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm. Harbour Merchant Coffee Company Inc.
Located at 288 Bridge Street, Harbour Merchant presents their Holiday Gift Grab. This seasonal package includes a cozy fisherman beanie detailed with Harbour Merchant’s logo. Also included is a precious raccoon mug, which nods to those curious raccoons that enjoy
exploring their garbage. Lastly, those purchasing their Holiday Gift Grab will find a $5.00 ‘Treat Yourself’ coupon for their delectable menu. I.D.A. – Highland Drug Mart
Highlighted at I.D.A. - Highland Drug Mart is their cozy pillows of the season. Consider these
Home is where the heart is, especially during the holidays.
6548 Sunset Road, St. Thomas ON Info@burkesproducemarket.ca • Store: 519-637-2890 Introducing our new subscription box service! We’re thrilled to offer three convenient sizes to meet all your needs. Plus, you can personalize your box with a selection of locally sourced artisanal and producer products. Visit us online to order! www.burkesproducemarket.ca
To all my family, friends and clients, Merry Christmas! And a Happy New Year filled with peace and new beginnings!
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 9
2024 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide
Studio Style Kim Ariesen opens the Studio Style doors at 215 Main Street with utter excitement about their seasonal jackets. This lightweight piece is part of the Nic + Zoe collection. Chanel inspired and created from a cotton blend, the collar and sleeve fringe detailing is a charming inclusion. Support local through your fashion and visit Studio Style for your choice of contemporary apparel, open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm.
Pepper Tree Spice Co. Located at 223A Colborne Street, visit Pepper Tree Spice Co. to style a thought- ful gift basket for your loved one. Customers are invited to curate any gift basket with the support of the Pepper
Tree Spice Co. team -- suited to a budget, colour, theme, size and value. Moreover, these gift baskets are wrapped in protective cellophane. Explore the exciting gift basket options directly in-store, or through the peppertreespice.com website. Port’s Post People
Facilitated in the Fire Hall Market is Port’s Post People, prepared with care by Mike and Cathy Cook. These be- loved Post People are con- structed from cedar fence posts, as Cathy voices,
“They are carved by my husband, hand-painted in exterior house paint.” These beautiful creations, therefore, will remain durable outdoors. Discover their festive exhibit located in the Fire Hall Market, and enjoy a visit with Mrs. Claus every Saturday throughout December.
Your Holiday Feast & Gift Headquarters!
300 Spices & Artisan Blends . Cooking Classes . Cookware Chefs Knives . Stocking Stuffers . Custom Baskets . Corporate Gift Solutions . Private Events. 223A COLBORNE ST., PORT STANLEY (519) 782-7800 24 CURCHILL CRES., ST. THOMAS. (226) 658-9510 www.peppertreespice.com
Yes, we deliver to Port Stanley!
Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • December 2024
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The Candy Gram Enjoy a wide selection of mixed candy bags containing uniquely flavourful sours and gummies, nestled in The Candy Gram’s packaging. These candies will make for delightful stocking stuffers, which range from $4.00
W & Co. Barber Shop Located at 169 William Street is Jason Wiener’s warm and welcoming W & Co. Barber Shop. Jason offers Gift Cert- ificates which never expire, and are sure to be a mean- ingful experience for a loved
to $10.00 in price. The Candy Gram welcomes visitors between Wednesday and Friday from 11:00 am until 4:00 pm, as well as on Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. Refer to their social media profiles for updates regarding hours of operation. Uncommon Blooms Creating an aromatic scent and a captivating unveiling of colourful, marvellous bath bombs are presently available at the magical Uncommon Blooms. Explore their generous selection, both nostalgic and modern. Varying in price, these bath bombs are a wonderful stocking addition. Located inside of the Fire Hall Market, visit Michelle Thorpe’s Uncommon Blooms to discover the various characters and designs that are available.
one of any age. Working with both long and short hair, kindly connect with the passionate Jason through his online service at wcobarbershop.com. Yogi Bakers Stationed at the Fire Hall Market is Yogi Bakers, owned and operated by Miriam Kleinsasser. She has delightedly prepared her popularly enjoyed Nanaimo Squares from a cherished family recipe. Satisfy your sweet tooth with friends and family, or surprise your loved ones with this delicious stocking stuffer. Explore Yogi Bakers Thursday to Monday from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm.
Canadale
Golam
Happy Holidays
Our Showroom is in the heart of Downtown St. Thomas, just a few steps from City Hall. Contact us for ANY of your Home Renovation needs, we do it all! Contact us for ANY of your Home Renovation needs, we do it all! Hall. Contact us for ANY of your Home Renovation needs. Wishing Everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! Wishing Everyone a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!! Wishing Everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Visit our showroom steps from City Our Showroom is in the heart of Downtown St. Thomas, just a few steps from City Hall.
Our amazing local vendors are here for all of your holiday needs! Merry Christmas Kettle Creek Swans
559 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
519-207-4424 www.ickitchens.ca
559 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
519 - 207 - 4424
www.ickitchens.ca
559 Talbot Street, St. Thomas
Keep Smiling Bright This Holiday Season! 519 - 207 - 4424
www.ickitchens.ca
Wishing you a happy, healthy holiday filled with joy and sparkling smiles.
218 Joseph Street, Port Stanley Winter Hours Open: 10am-5pm Thursday through Monday (closed Tuesday & Wednesday) *Extented Hours @ The Hydrant and Harbour Cheesecake
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 11
Vecchio
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 A Norm Foster is always on the docket and his Doris and Ivy in the Home will not disappoint. If you think life is over after sixty, Announcing the 2025 Port Stanley Festival Theatre summer theatre season! by Liz Gilroy, PSFT Artistic Director As I approached putting a season together for 2025 at PSFT, I wondered where to begin. People have always enjoyed comedies, dramas, musicals, and concerts at PSFT, and I wanted that not only to continue but to somehow make the experience even more enticing. I have a short list of shows that are always potential candidates; some make the cut, some don’t. BUT sometimes something unexpected arrives, like goldfish by Steve Ross and it goes straight to the top of the list. I read it in one sitting, laughing, and crying out loud, and that is a rarity. I was immediately drawn to this touching yet comedic story about Walter, a retiree who watches the world go by from his front porch. He meets Shannon, a young mother of two who moves in across the street, and they become friends. It is a simple premise, but the play is full of surprises. You see, Walter suffers from dementia and sometimes doesn’t know what day it is, what his favourite food is, or who Shannon is. They discuss everything from racism, infidelity, pronouns, to Cats , the musical. It’s a beautiful story of unlikely friendship between two lonely people who didn’t know they needed each other until they did. When I saw Liars at a Funeral by Sophia Fabiilli at The Blyth Festival, I knew in a moment that we had to share it with our PSFT audiences; five actors play nine parts; the doors and coffins are slamming; Grandma may or may not be dead, and everybody has a secret. It is everything a farce should be and more.
this delightful romp will make you think twice. Doris, Ivy, and Arthur all reside at Paradise Village (a retirement home) and experience whoopee in the compost patch, romance, gossip, and second chances. This is Norm Foster at his level best. Next, we are keeping the laughter rolling with The Kitchen Witches by Caroline Smith, a live cooking show on stage with a pinch of audience participation. Chefs, Dolly and Isobel fling the food and insults at each other while their thirty-year feud comes to life on stage. To launch the season in May, we’ve included Dump Guys , a delightful comedy by former Artistic Director, Simon Joynes, followed by some toe-tappin’ country music from Leisa Way’s Opry Gold, featuring The Wayward Wind Band. New this season, Talk Back Tuesdays and an American Sign Language signed performance. Check the website for details. Come, join PSFT for the 2025 summer season. You’ll be glad you did!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Serving our community for over 54 years For more information contact Emily Finch, President 519-769-2514 New members are always welcome www.portstanleyoptimists.ca
Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood C opyright @ 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.
Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • December 2024
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Embracing Tradition: Port Stanley’s Magical Holiday Celebrations Where Community Spirit Lights Up the Winter Wonderland by Marna Berry
Christmas tribute show at Port Stanley Festival Theatre promises the magic of his timeless hit songs that will transport you to a different era filled with nostalgia and holiday cheer. This season, let’s also remember to shop and dine locally, supporting the businesses that are the heartbeat of Port Stanley. It’s a meaningful way to contribute to our community’s vibrancy. May this holiday season fill your hearts with joy, your homes with warmth, and your lives with laughter. Wishing everyone in Port Stanley a truly wonderful Christmas filled with the magic of our local traditions.
As the festive season approaches, what traditions come to mind that make Christmas special for you? In Port Stanley, the holiday spirit is alive with unique, local traditions that invite everyone to join in the celebration. As we hang our lights, the town becomes a picturesque winter wonderland made even more spectacular thanks to the stunning Christmas Lights Display at 291 Selbourne Drive. This dazzling spectacle supports the Make-A-Wish Foundation and The Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard, lighting up the night and our hearts. Join the global ‘Christmas Eve Jingle’ right here in our community. At 6 pm on Christmas Eve, we gather outside, bells in hand, for two minutes of joyful ringing. This simple act spreads Christmas cheer and is said to help Santa on his way. It’s a magical moment that unites us all, creating cherished memories for both the young and the young at heart. For a more communal celebration, Christ Anglican Church opens its doors for you to ring its historic 400-pound bell, echoing through the village since 1854. Stay afterward for a heartwarming Christmas Carols Sing Along at 7 pm, followed by a serene Candlelight Christmas Eve service at 7:30 pm. The season is also a time for giving. Support the Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard to help local families enjoy a brighter Christmas. The Optimist Club’s ‘Angel Tree’ at the Port Stanley Library offers a touching way to remember loved ones, with a special remembrance service to honour them. Family fun awaits with the Santa Treats Train Rides, a festive favourite running on weekends throughout December. Visit www.pstr.on.ca for more details And for those who dare, the 12th annual Port Stanley Christmas Ugly Sweater Holly Hop on December 6th, while the Elvis’ Blue
Port Stanley Villager December 2024 cover Everyone has gathered to- gether to celebrate the first of 200 trees at the berm. In the photo are members of the 200
Trees for 200 Years committee, Past Students from Kettle Creek Public School, and Mayor Andrew Sloan. Photo by Geoff Rae
You are never too old for the holidays!
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Happy Holidays, Wishing you all the peace and joy in this Holiday Season
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May all that is beautiful, meaningful and brings you joy be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year! Merry Christmas from the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley.
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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • December 2024
Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com After the presidential election in the Excited States, Remembrance Day ceremonies on Sunday, Novem- ber 10 and Monday, November 11, were deeply felt. Our elected lea- ders, Mayor Sloan, Deputy Mayor
Ben Veel, a gentle giant among us, passed away on October 31, 2024. I first met Ben in 1980 in my professional capacity. His ensuing legacy of progressive planning as Mayor of Westminster and Councillor in London was consistent with the man I came to know. But as important, when he moved to Port, I witnessed his devotion to family; my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones. There’s a lot going on in December, including a New Year’s Eve dinner and dance fundraiser for the Bandshell! See FB PS Events Activities and Special News for what’s up. Attracting Riva, the Port Stanley Brewing Company, and Tim Hortons is evidence that Port has become a year- round market worthy of serious investment. That’s good news for existing restaurant, retail, and hospitality who need more players with deep pockets to ensure 7-day 4-season service to retain a ‘shop local’ community that sustains and grows our economy. Happy holidays! Home Hardware is carrying ‘Merry Everything’ doormats that speak volumes about diversity and inclusion. There are fourteen holy days in the coming weeks; we don’t need to choose just one! Let’s remember our family by choice and by circumstance, by doing so we make Port home for all of us. Happy New Year! When we practice our best future, we create it.
Noble, Councillor Graham, and our MP Karen Vecchio attended. The Missing Man Flyover against dark skies was particularly poignant, and a powerful portrayal of sacrifice to protect our democracy. Our national anthem promises, “We stand on guard for thee.” What does that mean to Port? What actions here and now honour the legacy of freedom bestowed to us that ensures the same for our progeny? As we reflect on 2024 and consider 2025, I suggest getting involved. Join the Legion, the PSVA, and a service club that aligns with what matters to you. We can’t change the world, but we can protect ours. To that end, the PSVA whose mission is Community- Communication-Advocacy delivered on an illuminating plan for pubic-private sector collaboration. The PS Community Investment Survey gathered feedback from residents on future investment. WoWza! The results meeting showcased the integrity of the inquiry and the ensuing Q&A demonstrated the integrity of the attendees… way less ‘them and us’ and way more ‘let’s do what needs doing.’ See psva.ca for the recommendations. Let’s step up to doing what needs doing. Our Kevin Edwards did it again! The masterful Hypnotist filled the house at PSFT. 2024 proceeds are dedicated to funding the Bandshell. Cheers to the sponsors, participants, coordinators, and attendees! Kudos to Great Lake Farms for a $300 donation and a bounty of apples for the Community Cupboard. Happy 7th Birthday to Vyla who requested donations to the Community Cupboard in lieu of gifts… now there’s a citizen in the making!
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Port Stanley Villager • December 2024 • Page 15
16 COMPASS TRAIL | PORT STANLEY, ONTARIO
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The ease of 1-floor rental living is coming to the picturesque town of Port Stanley. Located just minutes to the beach and village, residents will enjoy all the town has to offer; from shows at the theatre, to amazing shopping and dining experiences. After enjoying the community, residents will be at ease coming home to the modern amenities expected in a top-class property as all units have their own balcony, in unit laundry, individual climate control, large bright windows and much more. The place to relax and live the lakeside lifestyle is at Compass Point.
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w w w . d o m u s d e v . c o m
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