Port Stanley Villager May 2026

Port Stanley Villager May 2026 Issue 78

Letter from the Editor May is a wonderful month. The days get longer, the weather finally starts behaving itself, gardens wake up, and the smell of barbecues returns to neighbourhood backyards. But for many people, the most important day on the calendar in May is Mother’s Day. Over the years, I’ve written about my mom in this space a few times. I think she’s pretty wonderful, and if I’m

year, and having her here always feels like family, because it is. The only real challenge when she visits is making sure I have enough projects around the house. Pauline is one of those people who simply cannot sit still. To her, ‘quiet time’ is best used productively. If there’s a closet that needs organizing, a room that needs painting, or a small project that’s been sitting on my to-do list for six months, she’s in her happy place. I know that might sound strange to some people. Most visitors arrive expecting to relax while the host does the work. Pauline shows up ready to work while I try to convince her that sitting down with a cup of tea is allowed. But to her, relaxing isn’t relaxing; it’s stressful. Doing something useful is what makes her happy. Over the years, I’ve heard plenty of people complain about their mothers-in-law, but whenever that conversation comes up, I always say the same thing: mine is a step above. Now, that doesn’t mean she’s perfect. Like all of us, she has her quirks. Some of them even drive me a little bananas from time to time. But honestly, that’s just part of loving people who are different from us. So this May, when you’re celebrating the mom of your children or your own mother, take a moment to recognize another important person who helped shape your family. Your mother-in-law. Because sometimes, if you’re really lucky, you win that lottery too.

being honest, I see a lot of myself in her, both the good parts and the parts that probably explain a few of my quirks. She deserves every bit of recognition she gets this time of year. But this year, I’d like to shine the spotlight on another important mom in my life: my mother-in-law. Now I know what some of you might be thinking. Writing about your mother-in-law in a public magazine seems like a risky editorial choice. Entire comedy routines, sitcoms, and family stories have been built around complicated mother-in-law relationships. Fortunately for me, I can confidently say that I completely won the mother-in-law lottery. I was welcomed into Staci’s family almost immediately, and for over a quarter of a century now, I’ve been lucky enough to call Pauline my mother-in-law. She’s generous, caring, and has always treated me like far more than just ‘the guy who married her daughter’. Even after Staci’s passing, that connection never changed. Pauline still comes down to visit for holidays and throughout the

NOTICE to Members / Plot Holders of The Saint Thomas Cemetery Company

The Annual General Meeting (A.G.M.) of the Saint Thomas Cemetery Company will be held at 5:00pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the St. Thomas Legion, 24 John Street. All Members / Plot Holders of the Saint Thomas Cemetery Company are entitled to attend and to vote on matters put before the AGM. Please visit www.stthomascemetery.com for details.

Open Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm 215 Main Street Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca

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Lake House Books and KCPS: Adopt-A-Book Program by Peri Hayes Rachael Lake of Lake House Books is delighted to have launched KCPS Adopt-A-Book this year. In support of Kettle Creek Public School (KCPS), this program is designed to replenish their library with updated material suited to the students’ interests. The school invited this community collaboration, as Rachael shares: “One of the parents is also a librarian, and I was approached about this program because their library is in need of a refresh -- the average age of the books is approximately 16 years. Erin Braam and David Durston have been pivotal in initiating this program, and bringing this vision to life.” “I am thrilled to be a part of this program!” Rachael passionately continues, “I recognize that if these are books people will buy for KCPS, I want to offer a discount in support of this school project.” When checking out material(s), use the code ‘KCPS10’ for Lake House Books’ 10% discount. If you wish to add a book plate to honour your donation, this option is available in the notes section while checking out. Thereafter, these books will become property of Thames Valley District School Board. “We hope to inspire the next generation of readers,” Rachael warmly encourages. “We strive for new and relevant works to motivate reading as a healthy pastime for students. As well, greater diversity will allow children to see themselves in these stories.” Driven by the school, KCPS has curated their list which is available on the Lake House Books website. This is an evolving catalog, with inventory updates detailed throughout this ongoing process: “We are keeping track of the progress.” “The process is simple -- create an account on my website and place your order.” Rachael further welcomes, “Those interested can also come in, as I will certainly support people if they don’t feel comfortable online. I don’t have many of the listed options available in-store due to limited space, though I am happy to help select from the registry and order them in. There is nothing required beyond that, as I deliver the books to the school.” In celebratory news, 54 of 385 books had been purchased as of last month. Moreover, Rachael is accommodating to those who have insight on their children’s or grandchildren’s interests beyond the registry. Rachael cheerfully concludes, “I am open to hearing people’s suggestions and perspectives. We aim to include popular books, and we are excited to have this program opened up to the community.”

Lake House Books is located at 302 Bridge Street, #1. June through September, their hours will be extended from Tuesday until Sunday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Visit the lakehousebooks.ca website for further information, as well as to explore the KCPS’ Adopt-A-Book gift registry. Connect with Rachael at 519-521-1042, or through ‘Lake House Books’ on Instagram.

Port Stanley Villager May 2026 cover

Michael and Michelle Crich, the new owners of Wildflowers Farm, take a moment to enjoy each others company after hosting the Chamber’s Business After 5. Photo by Geoff Rae

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Port Stanley Villager • May 2026 • Page 3

LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE

Robin Baratta by Peri Hayes “From the moment I could pick up a pen, I was drawing on everything,” recollects local artist, Robin Baratta. Based in Belmont, Robin is a proud member of the Port Stanley Art Guild, the St. Thomas Art Guild and the Lambeth Art Association. As well, she is involved with the Station Arts Centre in Tillsonburg. For approximately seven years prior to COVID-19, Robin was a co-organizer alongside fellow creatives; bringing the Colours of Autumn Studio Tour to life throughout Central Elgin. With inspiration rooted in rural heritage, Robin voices, “While I was born and raised in London, there were three farms within my immediate family. We would often spend our summer holidays on the farm, and this was the best part of my summer. I spent as much of my childhood as I could in the woodlands and at Pottersburg Creek. That was me, a nature girl -- and this is something that I remain very drawn to.” Asked what excites Robin about the creative arts, she earnestly responds, “Where to start? I operate an art-based program with dementia residents in long-term care, and the impact that art has on these people is absolutely astounding – they come alive. Whether through cooking, gardening, sewing and so forth, I believe that creativity is part of being human. I have a message which I have been diligently presenting for years now, and that is ‘sustainability’. As a grandmother, I am particularly passionate: Some of the best farmland in the world is in southern Ontario, which is being covered in concrete and asphalt at an alarming rate. I am alarmed. I portray these disappearing landscapes to be seen as what they are — which is beautiful — and to inspire people to conserve. The texture that I’m creating in my art is directly related to my love of fossils, with the luminance influenced by stained glass windows.” Robin works with acrylic before glazing her paintings, “so they glow,” she beams.

in the upcoming Port Stanley Art Show and Sale this June 11th to 13th. Visit the robinbaratta.com website for further information, and connect with Robin through Facebook Messenger or email: robinbaratta@protonmail.com. In addition to Facebook, Robin is active on Instagram and LinkedIn. As she concludes, Robin invites those interested to refer to the GPS coordinates on the back of each piece to discover the featured locations.

Presently, Robin has work available at The Collective Mercantile in Sparta. Also in Sparta, she is delighted to be the featured artist for the month of May at gathered Gallery. Moreover, Robin is pleased to announce her participation

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Councillor’s Corner by Michelle Graham The Village People, purveyors of fun (as we like to call ourselves), have been bringing energy, creativity, and community spirit to life through a series of exciting events that continue to draw residents and visitors into Port’s downtown during the ‘shoulder months’ when our businesses need the support. The Village People’s wildly successful Harvest Hunt in October transformed the town into a fall playground, with everyone exploring local businesses, solving clues, and celebrating the beauty of the autumn season. In December, the Reindeer Roundup carried that momentum into the holidays, delighting participants with cheerful activities, fun for kids -- and some hilarious costumes, and dancing in the shops. In April, the Murder Mystery invited participants to step into a world of intrigue and suspense. Local business owners became part of

the storyline, and detectives eagerly followed clues to unravel the mystery, making it a memorable and fun experience for all involved. Looking ahead, The Village People have even more ambitious plans. A town-wide business lighting initiative will brighten the streets and highlight local shops in a visually stunning way. An upcoming Art in the Park event will celebrate creativity, featuring local artists and interactive experiences for all ages. In the fall, an Amazing Race-style event promises adventure, teamwork, and fun challenges throughout the community and a planned Indigenous mural, which will commemorate the on October 10, 1840 landing of the Oneida peoples. This project reflects a commitment not only to celebration, but also to honouring history and fostering deeper community understanding. Thank you to all of our volunteers and participants for making these events successful and supporting our local shops.

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The Village Knott: A Peaceful Planning Process by Peri Hayes

Port Stanley locals, Kimberly Walker and Jennifer Reid, delightedly discuss how their professional partnership came to be. Simply told, Jennifer was the wedding officiant for Kimberly’s wedding and their fulfilling companionship has blossomed ever since -- two entrepreneurs empowering one another. In 2025, Kimberly launched Petal and Pine; an outdoor wedding venue situated in a cathedral of pine trees. Her captivating property is nestled off of Sunset Road, upon entering the village. The surrounding nature creates a whimsical oasis, which is combined with customizations suited to each client. For example, sourced from a historic church located in Sparta is the breathtaking stained glass hung in their archway. “The light shines through the trees like magic,” Kimberly enthuses. About their well-balanced team, Jennifer beams, “We com- plement each other.” This is a grassroots business, and the dynamic duo look forward to furthering their connections in the community they have already felt so embraced by. Kim passionately exclaims, “I love the people; I love being able to speak to people, hear what they want and make it happen.” Inspired to gather people together and nourish a strong sense of community, Kimberly and Jennifer joined forces to debut The Village Knott. Geared toward wedding and small events planning, the pair collaborate with professional vendors for their shared goal: bringing your village wedding day wishes and event visions to life. Jennifer delightedly details, “With our backgrounds in weddings, business and beauty, we have combined our strengths to accommodate the needs of each

Kimberly Walker

Jennifer Reid

client.” With events scheduled into next year, Petal and Pine belongs to a list of local venue partnerships -- a service which Kimberly and Jennifer are operating year-round. With the care rooted in the details, Kimberly and Jennifer design small weddings and events in the village for as many as 40 guests. Amidst their array of custom wedding design selections is a brunch or cocktail-style event at the Windjammer Inn. Alternatively, art gallery, beach, or local park locations are further options. “As business owners, and having combined our dual business, we can both flourish and have fun as a team,” Jennifer cheers. Designed to be an accessible avenue, The Village Knott facilitates a peaceful process for clients through a personable single point of contact. In addition to weddings, they accept

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clients for celebrations of life, elopements, vow renewal and so forth. Kimberly can also provide beautiful bouquets from her exquisite on-site garden, offering, “We want to make the process of planning your event easy and stress-free. With the caterer, florist, officiant, music, photographer and venue prepared, we want you to arrive, experience and enjoy. Additionally, we arrange venue tours and local tastings, as well as direct you to other resources in order to find the right fit for you . Our priority is that clients are treated well, in a supportive and warm environment.” To this, Jennifer declares, “We are cultivating an inclusive environment for people.” As the two conclude in unison, “We like the idea of helping our community, and we want to support our village as a whole.” Kimberly and Jennifer encourage businesses interested in becoming a venue space or vendor to contact any of the following: Kimberly at petalsandpineevents@gmail.com; Jennifer at jenniferreid.ca and ‘Jennifer Reid Officiant’ on Instagram; and The Village Knott at thevillageknott@gmail.com. Niki Patel-Godin Photography is credited for the accompanying wedding photos.

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Port Stanley Villager • May 2026 • Page 7

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Incredible Volunteers by Deputy Mayor Todd Noble

As we step into the beautiful spring season in Central Elgin, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on the spirit that truly makes our community shine. Just a few short weeks ago, from April 19 to 25, we celebrated National Volunteer Week. This special time honours the countless individuals who give their time, energy, and talent to strengthen the places we call home. Here in Central Elgin, our volunteers truly make a difference every single day. Volunteers are the quiet backbone of our municipality. They coach our children’s sports teams, organize food drives, maintain our parks and trails, support local events, and step up whenever a neighbour needs a helping hand. Their contributions touch every corner of daily life, from delivering meals to seniors to preserving our local history. Without them, many of the programs and services we cherish simply would not exist. What moves me most is how volunteering in Central Elgin is a year-round commitment rooted in care and connection. Our volunteers don’t seek recognition — they simply show up, roll up their sleeves, and get the job done with kindness and dedication. They embody the best of what it means to live in a caring, tight-knit rural community like ours. As Deputy Mayor, I have the privilege of seeing this dedication up close, and nowhere is it more evident than right here in Union. For the past 26 years, I have lived right next to the Union Fire Hall, and every Thursday evening I witness firsthand the

remarkable commitment of our Union volunteer firefighters. On those evenings, no matter the weather — pouring rain, bitterly cold, or a perfect summer night — the bay doors open and the trucks roll out. I hear the familiar sounds of equipment

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checks and see the focused faces of the crew as they practice hose lays, ladder drills, search and rescue techniques, and emergency medical response scenarios. These dedicated men and women are our neighbours: farmers, business owners, tradespeople, parents, and retirees. They balance busy lives with the serious responsibility of being ready to answer the call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When the tones drop for a structure fire, a medical emergency, or a vehicle collision on our rural roads, these Union volunteers drop everything — family dinners, work shifts, kids’ activities — to protect our community. Their rigorous weekly training at the Union Fire Hall ensures they respond with skill and confidence when every second counts. Living next door for more than a quarter century has given me a front-row seat to their hard work, professionalism, and strong sense of camaraderie. The Union hall is more than just a fire station; it is a hub of dedication that serves our local area with pride. What has touched me even more deeply over these 26 years is witnessing their kindness, professionalism, and compassion in the most personal moments. There were times when the Union firefighters were there for my own mother and father- in-law during their times of need. In those difficult hours, I saw firsthand how these volunteers responded not only with efficiency and expertise, but with genuine care and humanity. Their calm presence and heartfelt support meant the world to our family. It reminded me that being a volunteer firefighter is about so much more than fighting fires — it’s about being there for your neighbours when it matters most. While I highlight the Union Fire Hall because it is so close to my heart and home, I know the same spirit lives across all four of

our fire halls in Belmont, Port Stanley, Union, and Yarmouth. Together, our more than 100 dedicated volunteer firefighters form the heart of Central Elgin Fire Rescue Services, supported by our full-time Fire Chief and Fire Services Coordinator. Their often unseen work keeps every resident safer and strengthens the bonds that make our community special. National Volunteer Week may have passed, but the appreciation we feel for our volunteers should never fade. This May, as flowers bloom and our community gathers for spring events, I encourage every resident — especially those in the Union area — to take a moment to thank a volunteer. A simple “thank you,” a note of appreciation, or offering to lend a hand can brighten their day and inspire others. To every coach, event organizer, committee member, en- vironmental steward, and especially our brave Union volunteer firefighters and their colleagues across Central Elgin — thank you. You make our municipality not just a place to live, but a place where people truly look out for one another. Your efforts create the strong, resilient, and welcoming community we are all proud to call home. Let us carry the spirit of National Volunteer Week with us throughout the year. Together, by supporting and celebrating our volunteers, we ensure that Central Elgin — and particularly our vibrant Union community — continues to thrive for gen- erations to come. With sincere gratitude, Todd Noble Deputy Mayor Municipality of Central Elgin

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Prevention Over Reaction by Nathan MacIntyre, CEO of the Rip Current Information Project There is a perception that emergencies on the water are unpredictable accidents, rare moments of bad luck that could happen to anyone without warning. This perception is part of the over-all drowning problem. Along the Great Lakes shoreline, many of these incidents are not random, they are the result of patterns in weather, wave conditions and in human behaviour that repeat themselves again and again. When we begin to view water-related emergencies as predictable and preventable risks, rather than as unavoidable events, the conversation changes -- prevention becomes not just possible, but practical. At its core, water safety is not instinctive, it is learned. Just as we teach children how to cross a street, wear a seatbelt, or respond to a fire alarm, we must also teach how water behaves, and how to respond to it. Understanding Great Lakes currents, recognizing hazardous conditions and knowing what to do in those moments are all skills that can be taught, practiced and remembered. This shift toward competency is critical. Too often, people rely on confidence instead of knowledge, assuming that being a ‘strong swimmer’ is enough to conquer the Lake. However, in many Great Lakes incidents, physical ability is not the primary factor -- panic is. When someone encounters a strong current, especially un- expectedly, the natural reaction is to fight against it. That imme- DIRECT RESPONSE MEDIA GROUP 240 Wyecroft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 1 866 993-0600 drmg.com AD SAVE

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tent, accessible information. Whether someone has lived near a Great Lake for decades or just arrived that morning, the message should be consistent across the province -- clear visible, and easy to understand. At the same time, prevention efforts must be focused where they are needed most. Not all shoreline areas carry the same level of risk. Certain locations experience more frequent or more powerful currents due to their geo- graphy, prevailing winds, wave pat- terns and beach populations. These high-risk zones should be prioritized in early outreach efforts,

It’s our Rhubarb Sauce that made us famous! Join the Festivities! Ultimately, prevention is about shifting mindset as much as it is about sharing information. Prevention is about moving from reacting after something goes wrong to equipping people before they ever enter the water. Prevention is about recognizing that knowledge can change outcomes when it is simple, standardized and widely accessible. Prevention is about understanding that with the right approach, many of these incidents are not inevitable; they are preventable! allowing education and resources to have the greatest immediate impact. By concentrating on these areas first, Elgin County communities and municipalities can begin reducing incidents where they are most likely to occur, while building over time a model that can be expanded provincially to other regions.

This presents a unique challenge in shoreline communities in Ontario, like Port Stanley. Each year, large numbers of visitors arrive from outside the area, drawn by beaches, warm weather and the beauty of the Great Lakes. Many are unfamiliar with how Great Lakes conditions differ from other bodies of water; some may be visiting for the first time. If safety information is inaccurate or missing or only reaches local residents, a significant portion of those at risk will not receive the information to protect themselves. Effective prevention requires that education travel as widely as the visitors themselves. Standardized-province-wide signage, public campaigns, community partnerships and digital outreach all play a role in ensuring that both residents and visitors receive consis-

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A Legacy of Love is Felt at STEGH by Erin Poort, STEGH Foundation ‘ When we think about the impact a life leaves behind, it’s not measured in grand gestures. It’s found in quiet acts of care, in kindness shown over time, and in a deep connection to the place we call home. Barbara Blewett lived that kind of life. Born and raised in Elgin County, Barbara spent nearly 100 years in the community she loved. Alongside her husband, Ted, she built a life grounded in hard work, humility, and care for others. Married for more than 70 years, they shared a simple life, one shaped by strong values and a deep appreciation for the community they surrounded themselves with. Over time, the life they built together became something more, a lasting legacy with the power to support others for generations to come. Through her generosity, alongside the shared legacy of Ted and her parents, Ottie and Clara Underhill, Barbara made a remarkable gift that has transformed care at St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH). Thanks to Barbara’s generosity a new Mammography machine has been fully funded, strengthening breast imaging services and helping ensure patients receive timely, compassionate care when they need it most, right here at STEGH. It’s a meaningful advancement that will touch the lives of countless individuals and families across our community. It’s also a powerful reflection of who Barbara was. Her gift was dedicated in her Will, sometimes called legacy giving. Simply put, it’s a way to leave a gift in your Will to support the people and places that matter most to you. It’s a choice that allows you to care for your loved ones while also extending that care to your community for future generations. For many, it’s not about wealth. It’s about values. It’s about ensuring that the hospital that cared for you and your family continues to be there for others. It’s about helping future generations access the same level of compassionate, close to home care that we all rely on. Barbara’s story is one example of what’s possible. It’s a reminder that the impact we have doesn’t end with us. Through thoughtful choices, it can continue, quietly and meaningfully, long into the future.

Today, Barbara’s legacy lives on in every patient who walks through the doors of the Mammography department at STEGH. In moments of uncertainty, in early detection, in care delivered with compassion, her presence is felt. It is, in every sense, a lasting expression of love. This reflects something we see every day across St. Thomas and Elgin County, neighbours looking out for one another, ensuring that care remains strong, close to home, and here for the next generation. Because when we take care of each other, that care has a way of lasting far beyond a lifetime.

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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • May 2026

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The Awakening of the Village by Marna Berry, Travel

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 the Port Stanley gardeners and volunteers! Their tireless hands ensure our village isn’t just a destination, but a masterpiece of coastal colour. As we look toward the horizon, there is an extra spark of excitement for me! We are deep in preparation for the seasonal launch of Legends of Lake Erie boat tours. We are counting down the days until the end of May, when we can finally swap our walking shoes for boat shoes and share the stories of our shoreline heritage and eco system from the lake. If you’re looking to truly experience May in the Port, do these three things: The Fresh Catch: Head down to the docks and pier to see the harvest coming in. Supporting our local fishery is the best way to taste the true flavour of Lake Erie. The Patio Perch: Find a seat at one of our local eateries. There is nothing quite like that first meal enjoyed in the open air on the lakefront. The Garden Stroll: Take a slow walk to appreciate the work of our volunteers. Their dedication makes every corner of Port Stanley feel like a welcome home. Explore local boutiques and art galleries along the way. As we move toward the holiday weekend, let’s cherish this ‘spring loading’ phase. The village is beautiful, the water is waiting, and, thanks to our hard-working community, Port Stanley is ready to shine!

Consultant & Experiential Guide Time to celebrate those mornings in early May when Port Stanley truly wakes up. It’s not just the calendar turning; it’s a feeling in the air — the scent of fresh

Lake Erie mist mingling with the first hints of sun-warmed sand. For those of us who grew up here, this month is a sacred bridge. After having spent the winter months in a quiet hibernation, we are enjoying the ‘gift of extra minutes’ as the sun lingers longer each evening. Strolling toward the lift bridge, you can feel the collective sigh of relief as our outdoor patios come alive. Umbrellas are popping up like spring tulips, and the familiar clatter of the Port Stanley Terminal Rail provides the perfect soundtrack to the season. This is also the time when our world-class Blue Flag beaches begin to reclaim their golden glow. We take immense pride in these stretches of sand, and as the water sparkles, so does our local industry. There is nothing quite like the ‘tug to table’ experience of watching the fish being unloaded fresh on the docks — a reminder of the maritime heartbeat that has sustained this village for generations. None of this beauty happens by accident. As you walk through the village, please take a moment to admire the lush displays and clean public spaces. We owe a massive debt of gratitude to

Citizenship and Immigration Canada Pension Plan Old Age Security Canada Revenue Agency Veterans Affairs Here to serve!

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.

519-637-4130 | andrew.lawton@parl.gc.ca AndrewLawtonMP.ca

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Port Stanley Villager • May 2026 • Page 13

Planning your future or making a move? Wills, Estates, Reverse Mortgages, Purchase, Sale & Refinancing. Convenient evening, weekend & virtual appointments. Paul F. Lépine Law Office (226) 658-0150 26 Little Creek Place, Port Stanley Wendy@paullepine.ca

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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • May 2026

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The Long Weekend: A Hilarious Cautionary Tale by Liz Gilroy, Port Stanley Festival Theatre Artistic Director We’ve all got ‘those friends’, the ones we have been friends with since grade one or high school, or University, and once in a while they are friends for life BUT sometimes that is not the case, and out of some deep-seeded guilt, you still try to see each other and maintain a relationship....... But should you? The Long Weekend by Norm Foster is a hilarious cautionary tale that takes a long hard look at that very scenario. Max and his wife Wynn have, outside of the city, a fabulous new home they can’t wait to show off to Wynn’s BFF, Abby and her husband Roger. Now Wynn and Abby have been friends forever, so Max and Roger are just along for the ride: they manage to tolerate each other at best. Norm has written four very strong characters with big personalities: Max, an uptight jazz loving lawyer ladies’ man who likes everything just so; Wynn, a therapist and world-famous author, who thinks she knows what’s best for everyone; fun loving Abby who is a successful clothing designer and a bit of a free spirit; and finally, Roger, an insecure ex teacher now trying to write a bestselling novel -- and it’s not going that well. The weekend gets off to a bad start: petty grudges come to the surface; old wounds get reopened; passive aggressive insults are being flung, and it seems like Max and Abby might be canoodling on the side. (You’ll have to buy a ticket to find out if Max and Abby are actually being naughty.) In true Norm Foster fashion, the dialogue throughout the chaos is genius -- you will be laughing right from the get-go, and you can’t help but love to

hate these people! Just when you think you have it figured out, ACT ll begins and the hilarious journey starts all over again and then, kapow, THE ENDING: you ain’t seen nothing yet! The Long Weekend by Norm Foster runs from June 10 to July 4, don’t miss it! Usually, a long weekend includes a Monday, and our first Musical Monday on the Pat and Ali Shakir patio is June 15 from 7 to 9:30 pm. We’ll be featuring Dylan Devinney, a singer- songwriter guitarist originally from Ridgeway Ontario. When he was a young guitarist, Dylan was inspired by Stevie Ray Vaughan, B. B. King, and Jimi Hendrix and he has since dedicated himself to follow in his hero’s footsteps. He graduated from Fanshawe College’s Music Industry Arts program in 2024 and has been touring successfully across Ontario ever since. He also released his debut single, Going Home and it has been received with glowing reviews. Watch the sunset, have a drink, and enjoy some live music. All at Port Stanley Festival Theatre!

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Port Stanley Villager • May 2026 • Page 15

Central Elgin Resident Seasonal Parking Pass

New for summer 2026: The Municipality of Central Elgin has introduced a resident seasonal parking pass to make parking in Port Stanley more affordable. Available to Central Elgin residents, the $65 pass is limited to one per vehicle owned by a resident of Central Elgin. Parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be used in any paid municipal parking lot in Port Stanley, with the exception of the Boat Launch Parking Lot. Non-resident passes are also available, along with daily and free parking options throughout Port Stanley. Visit centralelgin.org for full details and get ready for summer!

Visit centralelgin.org to purchase a pass.

$65.00 + HST

Not a Central Elgin resident? Non-resident parking passes are also available and can be purchased on our website: centralelgin.org.

centralelgin.org

info@centralelgin.org

519-631-4860

450 Sunset Drive

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