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
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