Real Living May 2025

REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural

SPRING 2025 Issue 24

Letter from the Editor Well, looks like we made it — this is the sixth anniversary issue of REAL Living Magazine ! We first launched in May of 2019 as a bit of a challenge to ourselves. At the time, we had been publishing Hometown St. Thomas Magazine for almost a year and Boomers & Beyond for about six months when Staci and I decided we needed a magazine dedicated to Elgin’s vibrant rural community.

One of my favourite things about living in Elgin is all the fairs and festivals. One of my top picks, of course, is the Rosy Rhubarb Festival, happening June 7th and 8th this year. What a legacy this event has left in Shedden! Beyond the world- famous rhubarb jam and pies, it’s about community pride. For one weekend, the whole town comes together to have a little fun, do a little shopping, and taste a little rhubarb. It’s funny, though — I can’t think about rhubarb without remembering one of my old co-workers, Nancy Watson of Fingal. She used to bring the most delicious rhubarb crumb cakes in to work. I’ve since moved on, and Nancy’s enjoying retired life these days, but if I see rhubarb, I think of Nancy. Funny how the mind works sometimes! In this issue, I also had the chance to catch up with our recently re-elected MPP, Rob Flack. Over the years, I’ve often said that regardless of your political leaning, I’ve found the level of competency and integrity in our local MP and MPP to be unmatched. I’m confident that MPP Flack will continue that legacy for another four years. That’s all for now! Our next issue is our Summer issue, which will be released in August. As always, if you have any questions, comments, or story ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at geoff@villagerpublications.com. I’d be happy to hear from you!

Now, truthfully, I had been in sales in Elgin for about four years at that point, but I didn’t have too many rural customers and Staci, well she was from Toronto and I’m originally from London, so downtown St. Thomas was about as rural as we had ever lived. However, we had lived in Elgin long enough to understand the importance of our rural community. We also recognized the underrepresentation of these communities. So, we set out to reflect the people, businesses, and culture that make our rural towns and villages shine. While Staci passed in 2020; her legacy lives on, and our work continues. Over the past six years, we’ve done our best to tell your stories, stories that matter to you and your neighbours. From local businesses, to events, to noteworthy happenings, we’ve had the privilege of working with organizations like the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, as well as our amazing columnists who live, work, and farm in our community. All to bring you a magazine you can call your own.

Page 2 Real Living • Spring 2025

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30+ Years of Rosy Rhubarb Festival by Peri Hayes Rosy Rhubarb Festival returns for another community cele- bration this June 7th from 8:00 am until 5:00 pm, as well as on the 8th from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm. Committee Founder, Keith Orchard, highlights, “This event is followed one week later by the Tractor Pull.” In 1992, a group of enthusiastic residents united with a shared passion for promoting the village of Shedden and surrounding area. Titled the Rhubarb Capital of Ontario in 1990, this Shedden event is held in honour of the local community and their memorable rhubarb. The Committee held their official meeting in 1993. The present Committee of roughly 12 to 14 members prepares nearly year-round for this event, gathering for two-hour meetings on the third Tuesday of each month – with exception to August, September and December. The Committee has fundraised for an updated multi-purpose building, being the Southwold Keystone Complex. Over the years, Keith has worked alongside dedicated volunteers to prepare 160 picnic tables for Fingal, Shedden and Talbotville locations, having sold a number to raise funds while building the present Shedden Library. Moreover, Keith shares that 28 benches have been constructed -- enough to comfortably seat 1,000 individuals. As Keith remarks with a smile, “We make lots of money, we spend lots of money. We keep improving the grounds, and are currently trying to get the old ball diamond refurbished so that children can use the space. This is our biggest goal this year.” The Optimist Club’s 1k Fun Run for Youth, 5k Run and Walk and 10k Marathon are returning this year, which are open to

the public. The Baked Rhubarb Competition and alternative contests will uphold tradition, while their renowned rhubarb sauce, specialty ice cream, pie and salsa will be available. With his personal involvement since the festival’s debut, Keith reveals the insightful recognition that three, five-gallon pails of their rhubarb sauce were consumed during their first year and this number has excitingly increased to 30. Furthermore, their vendor area has been extended for the 2025 festivities. Their array of enjoyable entertainment throughout the weekend entails bouncy castles, live music featuring Austin Gagnier, John Milles, Chris Eveland and more, a Classic Car Show on the Sunday and their whimsical petting zoo. Keith also details, “This year, we have a great banner that says ‘Kids’ Zone’. While we used to mix, we have ultimately decided to separate the petting zoo from the rest of the event for safety purposes.” As another development and through partnership with Natterjack Brewing Company LTD, the newly-licensed adult area will serve a variety of mature beverage With volunteer interest and general inquiries, email Committee Chair, Sandy, at sandy.rosyrhubarb@gmail.com. Further in- formation about Rosy Rhubarb Festival is available on their evolved rosyrhubarbfestival.com/home website. www.psft.ca (519) 782-4353

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Real Living • Spring 2025 • Page 3

A Summer of Laughter and Sunsets in Port Stanley by Liz Gilroy, PSFT Artistic Director The perfect Canadian escape awaits you at Port Stanley Festival Theatre. We are proud to present 100% Canadian stories with 100% Canadian talent in our intimate 200-seat theatre located on the harbour in picturesque Port Stanley. My parents started taking me to theatre at a very early age and I can’t imagine my life without it, or without any of the arts -- musical theatre, concerts, classical music, dance, painting, literature, opera, sculpture, etc. How could we get through life without our favourite break-up song, a painting that ignites a memory, our childhood palm prints from Grade 2 art class, dancing to music in the aisles, the poem we were made to write in Grade 9, the garage band we formed in high school, and our favourite book that we long to read again and again. Live theatre is an experience unlike anything else and I hope you can visit us again -- or for the first time -- this summer; we have so much to share with you. Starting in June it’s another hit by Canada’s most prolific playwright, Norm Foster: Doris and Ivy in the Home . Perhaps 65 is the new 35! Meet Doris, Ivy, and Arthur, three delightful characters living in a retirement home in Canmore Alberta. Doris, a brassy retired prison guard, befriends former Austrian skiing legend, Ivy, and this unlikely duo become fast friends. Not to be left behind is the amorous Arthur, who would like to ‘tighten Ivy’s bindings’. Join these three seniors for some hijinks! Starring last year’s festival favourite, Debbie Collins (The Perils of Persephone) , playwright and actor, Alison Lawrence (Murdoch Mysteries) , and Brian Young (Flashpoint) .

Next up, Sophia Fabiilli’s hilarious modern farce, Liars At A Funeral . Join Mavis as she stages her own funeral to reunite her estranged family one last time. Will this dysfunctional family be able to put their grudges behind them, or will this be the final nail in the coffin? With doors and caskets slamming, you never know who might ‘pop up’ during this fast-paced comedy that will kill you with laughter. Starring two familiar faces to PSFT, Sarah Machin Gale (The Beaver Club) and Andy Pogson (They’re Found In Trees), along with some new faces to Port, but we’ll keep them a secret for now. You’ll have to come see the show to find out! Back again, it’s Musical Mondays on our fabulous patio with the best view in town! Have a cocktail, watch the sunset, and be entertained by live music from 7:00 to 9:30 pm. It’s the perfect way to end a summer’s day. Dates: Monday June 2, July 7, July 21, August 4, and Karaoke with Kevin on September 1. Please visit www.psft.ca for details.

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Rob Flack: Back in the Saddle for Elgin-Middlesex-London

Rob Flack, MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London, and newly minted Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing has secured a decisive victory for his second term, a testament to the confidence his constituents have in him. Rob, as he prefers to be called, is eager to build on the foundation he has laid in his first term. Reflecting on his re-election and the work ahead, he emphasizes his commitment to serving the people of his riding. “The biggest highlight, for sure, is getting to know the riding better,” Rob shares. “This office is a living and breathing thing — you’re solving people’s problems, helping them find solutions. It’s a customer service business, and I’m happy to do that.” During his first term, Rob has been particularly proud of the economic investments he has helped secure. The PowerCo announcement was a significant win, but it comes with the challenge of ensuring the necessary infrastructure — schools, hospitals, transportation, policing, firefighting, water, and wastewater — keeps up with the region’s rapid growth. “We’ve secured over $60 million in housing-enabling water funds, six new schools in London and the region, and $150 million for our hospitals, including over $40 million for St. Thomas. Supporting the MRI project was also a priority,” he says. Rob is deeply invested in advocating for his riding at Queen’s Park. “In caucus, we’re all Progressive Conservative MPPs, but everyone is looking after their own ridings. With ten municipalities in this riding, I learned early on how the system works and how to ensure we get our fair share of investment. And there’s much more to come.”

The population growth in London, St. Thomas, and surrounding areas is among the fastest in Canada, and Rob sees it as his job to ensure the region receives the investment it needs. “We need a strong economy to support that growth. That’s part of why the Premier wanted me in this role, but my first priority is always the people of this riding.” His decision to run for a second term was an easy one. “There’s still so much more to do. Public life isn’t forever — I don’t believe in a 40-year political career. But when there’s still heavy lifting to be done, and I know how to get things done, I feel it’s my responsibility to continue.” Rob’s rise to Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness and now Minster of Municipal Affairs and Housing has been swift, but

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Page 6 Real Living • Spring 2025

he credits his experience and the trust of the Premier. “Hopefully, I’ve earned that trust. Leadership experience, common sense, and a little bit of wisdom never hurt. I’ve built a business throughout my career, and while government isn’t a business, using business principles and good governance is important.” Despite the successes, challenges remain. “These tariff threats have not been fun because there’s no logic to them. Canada and the U.S. trade $45 billion a year in agri-food alone, and we actually have a slight trade deficit with them. If we retaliate, it’s going to hurt their farmers and our farmers alike. As Premier Ford says, why pick a fight with your best friend? The only predictable thing about Donald Trump is his unpredictability. That’s what keeps me up at night — how these tariffs could impact our jobs, our farmers, our businesses, and our communities.” Automotive and agribusiness, including agri-food, are two of the most vulnerable industries in this region. Rob views the current trade tensions as a precursor to negotiations surrounding the Canada-U.S.- Mexico Agreement. “We’re not without leverage in Ontario. We’re an economic powerhouse in automotive and agri-food, which is a $51 billion industry in GDP. Agri-food alone employs more people than the auto sector, from farm gate to consumer’s plate. There’s reason for concern, but at the same time, this trade relationship benefits both sides. I’m hopeful cooler heads will prevail and that we won’t see the catastrophic economic damage that could be a risk. The biggest threat is jobs — that’s the real concern. As a government, we are going to protect those jobs come hell or high water.” Even with these concerns, Rob remains optimistic. “We have a massive investment to make in our communities to support our growth. You can’t look at it all at once — you break it down, tackle each challenge, and find solutions.”

Rob also sees a major opportunity in expanding Ontario’s agri- food processing sector. “Especially in light of these tariffs, we need to create an environment where more agri-food processing takes place here. This region is perfectly suited for it — we have the farms, the productivity, and the population both to work in the industry and consume the products. Our transportation connections to the U.S., airports, and Great Lakes make us an agri-food powerhouse. We produce over 200 commodities in Ontario, and we need to add more value to them, process more of our food here, and find new export markets beyond the United States. Right now, 81 to 82 percent of our agri-food exports go to the U.S. We’ll always trade with them, but if we want to grow, we need to diversify.” Change is something Rob is keenly aware of. “London has changed drastically in a short time, and St. Thomas is seeing rapid growth, too. Not everyone is comfortable with change, but the reality is Ontario’s population has more than doubled since I was in high school. The federal government controls immigration, and it’s our job to invest and prepare for that growth.” Ensuring home ownership remains attainable and improving access to healthcare are key priorities for Rob. “We’ve brought in more doctors than ever before, but with more people, we need more primary care. We’re investing $1.8 billion to ensure that happens over the next four years.” With another four years ahead, Rob is ready to take on the challenges and opportunities that come with the job. “I woke up the day after the election, and it was game on. There’s a lot to do, and I’m ready to get it done.”

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Your one-stop truck accessory shop! Time to accessorize your truck? • Tonneau Covers • Running Boards • Truck Racks • Hood Protectors • Moulded Splash Guards and more Kyra proceeds to share, “Despite varied interests, what ultimately drew me to medicine was the beautiful marriage of science and the care for human beings that the profession affords. After starting Medical School, I wasn’t sure I had made the right decision. Hours spent in the anatomy lab and studying slides under a microscope made the patient-centred aspect of medicine that drew me to the field feel so far away, but things changed for me when our class was invited to tour a Palliative Care Unit. I vividly remember the experience of meeting with a patient who was generous enough to spend time sharing their personal experience with palliative care. The patient spoke of the way that the palliative care team expertly relieved their symptoms, improved their quality of life and helped them to live out their final days with connection, dignity, respect and support. That day, I came to learn of palliative care as a healing art that centres the person and their family as unique human beings deserving of care and comfort, often in the most vulnerable moments of their lives. From then on, I knew where my place in Medicine was and started my journey toward becoming a Palliative Medicine Specialist.” Hospice of Elgin’s Medical Director, Dr. Kyra Harris-Schulz by Peri Hayes Dr. Kyra Harris-Schulz, Hospice of Elgin’s Medical Director, introduces: “I completed a degree in Medicine from McGill University in Montréal, Québec. I then went on to complete a residency in Family Medicine, followed by a fellowship in Palliative Care at Western University.”

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SCOTT LEWIS AUTO A name you can trust Old or new, we’ll fix them for you! As the Medical Director of Hospice of Elgin, Kyra’s role is to collaborate with their leadership team, guiding clinical care and overseeing the esteemed physicians who will provide “exceptional care” to residents: “My desire to join the Hospice team was really inspired by the opportunity to co-create a brand new place for exemplary palliative and end-of-life care in Elgin. When I read about the design for Hospice, the ways that nature has been incorporated and all the work that has been done to make it feel less like a medical facility and more like a home, I got excited thinking about how I could use my skills to help complement that work as a Medical Director and member of our physician team!” The devoted Kyra expresses how privileged she feels to be a member on the Hospice team, as she describes her excitement, “Hospice is just one new part of the palliative care landscape in Elgin. There are already so many passionate nurse practitioners, physicians, nurses and interdisciplinary healthcare providers -- who do an incredible job supporting people with serious illness to both live and die well. I have been welcomed with such warmth and open arms by the healthcare community here, and the community as a whole. I want to express my gratitude for all their contributions and support for Hospice of Elgin.” Seizing the opportunity to highlight Hospice of Elgin’s Executive Director, Kyra voices, “Brenda is such an incredible leader. Her passion and drive to give back to her own community as the Executive Director is inspiring.” To conclude, Kyra presents this thoughtful message: “There is so much fear and misconception surrounding palliative care. Many times after hearing that I work in palliative care, people say, ‘That must be so sad,’ and some days my work is sad, but sometimes it’s happy -- or funny, or joyful. Some days, it’s all of

those things at once. Regardless, caring for people with serious illness is always meaningful and that is what is important. My work is to relieve people of suffering, whenever possible, and to support people through suffering when relief is not possible. It is about non-abandonment. Are people, regardless of their diagnosis, prognosis or who they are, worthy of being cared for and supported up until their final breath? Without a doubt. That to me is not sad, that to me is hope-giving.” Those with inquiries about the developing Elgin of Hospice are encouraged to phone their office at 519-631-7495, and connect with a member of this dedicated team.

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Real Living • Spring 2025 • Page 9

Plane and Simple, Blue Side Up is about Family!

The Southwold Keystone Complex in Shedden will soon be buzzing with laughter and heartfelt moments as Fridge Door Live Theatre Company presents an original play by Len Cuthbert. Directed by Haley Kriz, the play features a talented cast, including Fynn Cuthbert, Kelsey Howatt, Haley Kriz, and Sarah Green. Performances are set for June 4 at 7 pm and June 5 at both 2 pm and 7 pm in Shedden, followed by shows at The Wright Place in Strathroy on June 7 and 8. During a recent conversation with Len, he described the play as a poignant exploration of themes such as abandonment, fostering, and adoption. At its heart, it’s a story about family and friendship. “Mick, the main character, is a pilot, mechanic, and airport manager,” Len explains. “He’s also, after the death of their parents, the guardian of his 13-year-old sister, DJ. Managing an airport while raising a teenager brings its own set of challenges.” Jade, played by Kelsey Howatt, is Mick’s vivacious best friend and part-time airport employee. “Jade’s carefree spirit contrasts sharply with Mick’s structured personality,” Len reveals. “Her character brings a lot of comedic energy, but she also carries a deeper emotional story of rejection and resilience.” Delilah, portrayed by Haley Kriz, adds another layer of complexity. As a long-time friend who reconnects with Mick and Jade, her presence stirs up memories and unresolved emotions. Meanwhile, DJ’s youthful energy and curiosity breathe life into the story as she navigates the unique experience of living at an airport.

Flynn Cuthbert and Kelsey Howatt

Healthy Lawns Start at Fingal! Grass Seed • Fertilizer • Accessories This production has evolved significantly since its inception. Originally written as a 10-minute play, it first debuted in New York City, where it won the People’s Choice Award. Encouraged by the response, Len expanded it to a one-act play, which received positive reviews at the London Fringe Festival in 2012. Thanks to a grant from the Ontario Arts Council, it eventually became a full-length production. For Len, the play has a personal connection. “I drew from my own experiences as a pilot and aircraft mechanic,” he shares. “Those moments of flying banners and managing airport operations added authenticity to Mick’s character.”

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Page 10 Real Living • Spring 2025

Len expresses his excitement for audiences to experience the production. “It’s a dramedy. There are plenty of laughs, but the emotional core remains. Each character has their own journey, and I think people will see themselves reflected in those experiences.” Tickets for the Shedden and Strathroy performances are selling quickly, with many locals eager to witness the return of Len’s work to the stage. Whether it’s your first time seeing it or a nostalgic revisit from a decade ago, this revitalized production promises an evening of humour, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable storytelling. To purchase tickets, go to www.onstagelive.ca.

Haley Kriz and Sarah Green “It sat for about 10 years,” Len admits, “But revisiting it with fresh eyes, I realized it needed a stronger setting. Changing the backdrop to an airport brought a whole new dynamic to the story. It gave Mick a solid background and added depth to the narrative.” The cast and crew have poured their energy into bringing this story to life. Len expresses his excitement for audiences to experience the production. “It’s a dramedy. There are plenty of laughs, but the emotional core remains. Each character has their own

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Support Your Local Farmer by Laura Fraser, OFA Member Service Representative, Oxford and Elgin Counties Laura.fraser@ofa.on.ca

Local Snapshot Elgin County CENSUS DIVISION

Agriculture at a Glance AS OF 202 4

Elgin

389,260 acres of farmland

1,408 farms

276 acres is the average sized farm

Local Farm Sales

With all the uncertainty surrounding us in today’s economy, one thing remains constant -- the need for local food

12% sell farm products directly to the consumer:

6 farms operate a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture)

and sustainable agriculture. In Ontario alone, the agri-food sector contributes over $50 billion to the economy every year. The sector also employs 11 percent of Ontario’s workforce, supporting 871,000 jobs and it generates $26.2 billion in exports every year. By supporting local farmers by purchasing their goods and services we help their businesses thrive and keep money in the community. Not to mention that local food systems ensure fresher, more nutritious options for consumers while building a connection between people and where their food comes from. At the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, we continue to provide resources to make sourcing local food easier. We recently added a new website to help consumers navigate branding and to know that their food is grown, raised and produced right here at home. To learn more, visit Buy Local: Discover Ontario agricultural products and support local businesses -- Ontario Federation of Agriculture at www.ofa.on.ca/buy-local. Elgin County is home to many farms that offer local food and goods right at our fingertips. Elgin County Eat Fresh, Buy Local: The ‘Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Elgin County’ brochure provides visitors and residents with a guide to eating fresh from the wide selection of Elgin County farms, which are great places to buy produce, meats, wine, honey and maple syrup. The flourishing agri-tourism business includes local wineries, organic and herb farms, as well as pick-your-own operations. This growing season, I encourage you to see what your local farmers have to offer and don’t forget you can always reach out to me or the Elgin Federation of Agriculture, elginfarmers@ gmail.com for more information! REAL LIVING Rural Elgin All articles written by Geoff Rae unless otherwise indicated. Copy Editor: Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome. Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177

24 farms sell at farmers’ markets

123 farms sell directly from their farm, at stands, or pick-your-own

Economic Contributions in 202 3

Local Impact

Across the Province

Farm Cash Receipts

Farm cash receipts generated by local farms supported $1. 6 billion in GDP and 2 6 , 155 employees in the agri-food sector from farm to fork across Ontario

The local agri-food sector employed 5, 545 people through 1, 949 local agri-food business establishments

$ 832 million in Farm Cash Receipts

• Grains & Oilseeds • Field Vegetables • Dairy

Farm Facts

14.6% generate renewable energy, including solar, bioenergy and wind power

55.8% are small farms (less than $100,000 in revenue)

32.0% of farm operators are female

Source: Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness (202 4 ) County Profiles.

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JUNE 7 & 8

Shedden Keystone Complex JUNE 10 & 11

Shedden Keystone Complex • Lion’s Breakfast • Music • Food • Vendors • Kids’ Zone • Yard Sales (Sat) • Largest Leaf & Stock Contest (Sat) • Car Show (Sun) • Non-demoninational Church Service (Sun) • Rosy’s Optimist Run (Sun)

• Yard Sales • Music • Food • Car Show • Vendors • Rosy Rhubarb Run • Horse Show Demonstration • Kids Zone plus Batman & Superhero Costume Contest 2025

Enjoy Everything Rhubarb Pies & Sauces

Camping Available

2023

CAMPING AVAILABLE

Full Schedule, Details & Updates on Facebook or rosyrhubarbfestival.com

Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or 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.

Rhubarb Capital of Ontario

Experience Everything

Page 12 Real Living • Spring 2025

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OUTSTANDING IN HER FIELD by Sarah Harrison, Co-Owner of Mazak Farms Remember when you were young, when you were eager, when you were curious and wanted to learn all the things? Now, think about who saw that in you, who took an interest in you, and taught you about what you were interested in, who showed

what are the risks if we don’t take them under our wings? We risk them losing that keenness, that curiosity. We risk them losing interest; we risk their talents not being uncovered. So, what do we do? We step up; we show up, we take some risks on these young people! They need us, and we definitely need them. We need their fresh perspectives, and they need our knowledge and our skills. Is it frustrating and time-consuming to take on a youth? Unquestionably. I can promise the person who mentored you felt the same way, but they did it. You are grateful they did, and so is your community because of the role you now play in this world. I want to encourage you to be that person for someone else. Let’s stop complaining about ‘kids these days’ and start doing something to help them out. Keep being outstanding in your field.

you how things worked, how to get what you wanted in this world. I’m not necessarily talking about a teacher in the traditional sense, but I suspect we each had at least one special person who acted as a mentor to us. So now the question is, are you that person for someone else? I bet you probably are, but you must be willing to put up your hand and say ‘Hey, let me show you how this goes’. Our family has recently been re-introduced to the high school co-op program, and to say we are disappointed would be an understatement. Schools no longer provide our eager, keen, curious young people with a long list of people and places willing to provide them with experiences. We instead say to these young teens ‘go find someone who is willing to keep you busy’. What are we doing? Why are we putting the responsibility on our young people to teach themselves, to make a cold call and hope for the best? It is typically a bit painful to have a young person under your wing. They don’t know anything; they have lots of questions; they make tons of mistakes -- they may even cost you money. Risky. But DIRECT RESPONSE AD SAVE

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Real Living • Spring 2025 • Page 13

Looking for a New Shed this Spring?

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Page 14 Real Living • Spring 2025

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Senior’s Picnic in the Park is Back! The 26th annual Seniors Picnic in the Park, presented by Nurse Next Door, is set to bring together seniors from across Elgin County for a day of entertainment, community connection, and valuable resources. Taking place from 9 am to 2 pm on Tuesday, July 9th, at Pinafore Park (95 Elm St, St. Thomas) the event is expected to draw hundreds of attendees. “It’s a gathering of seniors from all over Elgin County,” says Sara Sweeny, a member of the Seniors Picnic in the Park Committee and representative of the Alzheimer Society. “We’re hopeful to have upwards of 50 vendors offering direct services and programs to seniors.” Visitors can explore Vendor Alley, where businesses and non- profits will provide information on services tailored to those aged 55 and older. From health and wellness support to recreational opportunities, the event aims to connect seniors with resources that enhance their quality of life. Live music will fill the park, creating a lively atmosphere. “Last year, we had all kinds of music — East Coast tunes, reggae, and old classics,” Sara recalls. “We had around 30 musicians, and it’s always a joy to see them perform.” In addition to the music, attendees will have the chance to win from a wide selection of door prizes. Food vendors will offer a variety of options, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. While some may assume the event is primarily for St. Thomas residents, Sara emphasizes that it’s open to all seniors across Elgin County. “Last year, we had seniors from West Lorne, Union, and Port Stanley,” she points out. “It’s wonderful to see people coming from all corners of the county.”

The annual car show is another highlight, featuring classic vehicles that spark nostalgia and conversation. The event’s combination of activities and opportunities for socializing keeps it relevant year after year. “There are a lot of younger seniors looking for things to do, like pickleball or new programs,” Sara explains. “And for those looking ahead, there are resources on retirement homes and other services.” Her favourite part of the event? “The smiles. Seeing seniors leave Vendor Alley with bags full of information and giveaways and hearing their thanks on the way out — it’s wonderful,” Sara declares. The Seniors’ Picnic in the Park is free to attend, thanks to the generous support of grants from Elgin County, the City of St. Thomas, and our sponsors, including Nurse Next Door, who is our presenting sponsor this year. Whether you’re looking to enjoy live music, a great meal, explore resources, or simply spend a fun day in the park, this community celebration promises something for everyone.

Nashville Takeover of Port Stanley June 20–22, 2025

Stories. Songs. Southern Soul – Right Here in Port Stanley.

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend as top Nashville singer-songwriters bring the heart of Music City to the shores of Lake Erie! Experience acoustic, “Bluebird Cafe”-style performances where award-winning artists share the songs they wrote—and the stories behind them—in an intimate, up-close setting. Multiple Venues. One Magical Vibe. Catch performances across town at: Two Forks, Windjammer Inn,

Port Stanley Festival Rooftop Patio, Wildflowers Farm, Secret Backyard Location, Brass Notez (St. Thomas).

Over 70% of tickets are already sold secure your spot now. DM @backyardmusicco on Instagram with the secret word PORTSTANLEY, Or email backyardfrontdesk@gmail.com.

Thanks to our sponsors

Port Stanley Villager

Real Living • Spring 2025 • Page 15

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