Letter from the Editor Decision-making is something we all do every day. Some decisions are tiny, like what kind of canned tomatoes to buy (diced, crushed, or fire-roasted: the struggle is real). Others are a bit bigger, like where to eat tonight. And some decisions loom large, like where to take the family for vacation this year.
PortStanley FestivalTheatre
PACKED WITH FALL ENTERTAINMENT! SIMON JOYNES PLAYWRIGHTS’ FESTIVAL Join us for three nights of FREE Public Readings as we develop new Canadian stories. Hosted by PSFT Artistic Director Liz Gilroy
The truth is that decision-making is a skill. And the ability not to get bogged down in the minutia of every detail and avoid paralysis by every choice is a genuine asset, for your family, your business, and most importantly, your own peace of mind. I like to think of myself as a decision-maker. It comes with the territory. I make them every day: What story do I write? Where does this ad go? Should I start another project or focus on the ones already piling up on my desk? I won’t claim every decision I make is the right one, far from it, but I stand by the choices I’ve made, and I always try to learn from the ones that didn’t pan out. I also learned a long time ago that I don’t know everything. Shocking, I know. That’s why I’ve come to value the wisdom of trusted friends, family, and colleagues. I might not follow their advice every time, but I always appreciate their perspectives and use them to help shape my decision-making. One of the best pieces of advice I ever heard? Only accept criticism from people you would go to for advice. That little gem has saved me a lot of time and energy. After all, it’s much easier to criticize than it is to step up and make a choice. If you’re facing a big decision, as I did this summer, my advice is this: be brave. Don’t be reckless; consider your options carefully. But once the scales tip, be bold. Move forward with purpose. One of my favourite quotes is from John Augustus Shedd: A ship is safe in harbour, but that’s not what ships are built for. So set sail. Speaking of projects, the Christmas in Port Stanley Holiday Cookbook is coming together beautifully. I’m thrilled by the community’s excitement and participation. If you’d like to share a recipe in this new holiday tradition, there’s still time. The deadline is September 15. Email your recipe to geoff@villagerpublications. com. We are accepting recipes for drinks, appetizers, mains, sides, desserts and even something from pets. Now that summer is ending and fall is just around the corner, it’s a natural time for reflection and for making a few new decisions. Whatever choices lie ahead, remember: the goal isn’t to be perfect, it’s to move forward with intention. Be brave. And take that step — toma toes and all.
September 18 - 20 th , 2025 at 7:30pm “Deadly Memories” by Steven Gallagher
“Hart’s Crossing” by Tracey Hoyt “Ship To Shore” by Norm Foster Reserve Free Seats in Advance Donations Welcomed at the Door
October 4 2pm & 7:30pm
Timeless Sounds of the 50’s & 60’s with a fresh, contemporary energy!
THE FRETLESS
featuring Madeleine Roger November 8 2pm & 7:30pm
Port Stanley Villager September 2025 cover Arghh matey, there be a Pirate at the CALIPSO Festival. Photo courtesy of Hot Shoe Hustle.
Contemporary Folk Music
519-782-4353 www.psft.ca RESERVE YOUR SEATS
Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • September 2025
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