Port Stanley Villager November 2025 Issue 73
Letter from the Editor Well, folks, here we are again with Canada Post uncertainty. I apprec- iate your understanding during these challenging times, and I genuinely thank you for taking the time when I can’t guarantee delivery through our regular postal service, to stop by one of the many pick-up locations to grab your copy of the Villager. It’s my sincere wish that Canada Post and its workers come together
30th. So, whether you’re celebrating like the Dickens or donning your finest holly, remember to have a great time and support our wonderful community businesses and volunteers who make it all happen. Speaking of the parade, I had the pleasure of chatting with Joe Konecny of the Port Stanley Lions. The Lions Club and the Lioness Lions are proud once again to host the 27th Annual Port Stanley Dickens’ Day Night Parade on Friday, November 28th, from 7 pm to 9 pm. The route begins behind Foodland on Francis Street, winds through our charming village streets, and finishes at GTs on the Beach. Last year’s parade brought joy to thousands across the community, and the Lions are hoping to see 30 or more floats this year. If your organization would like to join the fun, remember — applications are due by November 18th. Finally, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest appreciation to Edna Janzen, retiring Executive Director of the Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard. Edna’s remarkable leadership, compassion, and vision have strengthened our community and left a lasting legacy of care and connection. As we celebrate Edna’s many accomplishments, we also welcome Ian McDonald as the incoming Executive Director. With Ian at the helm, the Community Cupboard is well- positioned to continue valuable service to those in need. And as the harbour glows in holiday light, One might see old Dickens strolling one night,
and find a way to keep their usually excellent service running smoothly for decades to come. After all, the mail carriers of Port Stanley have been delivering smiles, bills, and birthday cards through rain, snow, and seagulls for generations, and it would be a shame to see that tradition falter. Now, to borrow from William Shakespeare: A rose by any other name would smell as sweet. That’s exactly how I feel about this year’s Dickens’ Days celebrations. What began years ago as the Port Stanley Lions and Lionesses Dickens’ Day Parade eventually blossomed into a weekend full of festive fun. And like any good Dickens tale, it’s now evolved with a new chapter -- Harbour Holly Days! As you’ll read on page 4, this new name represents the next step in the story, but I’ll admit -- things might get a little confusing this year. The parade is still officially the Dickens’ Day Parade, and several events still carry the Dickens’ Days title. But don’t let that stop you; it’s all happening the same weekend, from Friday, November 28th to Sunday, November
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Burke’s Produce Christmas Market Returns with More Vendors, Festive Fun, and Local Cheer Burke’s Produce will once again be filled with the sights, sounds, and scents of the season as their annual Christmas Market returns on Sunday, November 23rd, from 10 am to 3 pm at 6548 Sunset Road, next to Shaw’s Ice Cream between St. Thomas and Port Stanley. Owner, Mark Burke, says this year’s event will be the biggest yet. “It’s our third Christmas Market at Burke’s Produce Market,” he shares. “Last year’s event was a great success, and this year we’ve expanded both the number of vendors and the variety of offerings as we have doubled our vendor list.” While Burke’s is well known for its fresh produce, baked goods, and local products throughout the growing season, Mark says the Christmas Market brings a whole new energy to the space. “Our daily market focuses on fresh, local produce and baked goods,” he explains. “The Christmas Market transforms that space into a festive destination, filled with local artisans, handmade gifts, seasonal food, and a cozy holiday atmosphere. It’s less about grocery shopping and more about celebrating community.” This year’s market will feature around 20 local vendors, offering a wide range of items perfect for holiday shopping. Visitors can browse baked goods, preserves, hot drinks, handcrafted décor, candles, soaps, art, jewelry, and more, all from local creators and small businesses. “We have a few new vendors joining us for the first time,” says Mark. “There are some surprise additions offering one-of-a-kind gift items and festive treats.” Mark sees the market as an important way to keep the local economy thriving year-round. “Winter can be a quiet season for small producers,” he points out, “So the market gives them a platform to connect with customers and keep sales flowing during the off-season. It also helps keep our community engaged with local shopping rather than turning to big box stores or online retailers.” The event will also feature live music and holiday treats throughout the day, creating the perfect setting for families and friends to enjoy some festive fun together. “There’s something special about watching people connect, laugh, and support local businesses, all while enjoying the holiday spirit,” Mark adds. “It’s a rewarding reminder of why we started doing this in the first place.”
With more vendors, more variety, and plenty of holiday cheer, the Burke’s Produce Christmas Market is the perfect way to kick off the season and support local while you do it.
Port Stanley Villager November 2025 cover
Members of the Kettle Creek Public School Eco class getting ready for tours of the Berm on National Tree
Day, September 26th. Photo by Geoff Rae.
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Port Stanley Villager • November 2025 • Page 3
Harbour Holly Days in Port Stanley! by Peri Hayes Ryan Featherstone, Board Member with the Port Stanley BIA, continues his dedicated involvement on the following organizing committee. Ryan offers how the formerly known Dickens’ Days Weekend in the lakeside village has evolved: “This year’s event is actually an overhaul and rebrand of Dickens’ Days. This will be the first year of Harbour Holly Days.” As Ryan candidly reflects, “It was noticed that last year’s attendance was light, and we had been getting feedback from visitors that there isn’t enough attraction for children. It was also difficult being confined to the Victorian Christmas theme, because service providers were retiring out of roles and no longer offering service.” “We are moving forward with a more versatile and expansive theme, featuring new attractions and a complete rebranding. We will have some continuity with warming stations, horse- drawn carriage rides and Santa’s House.” Launching with this event will be their Alpaca Petting Zoo, along with an array of family-oriented contests, live music and more. Ryan proceeds to invite, “There will also be a Christmas Carol Sing at Christ Anglican Church, where any and all are welcome.” Harbour Holly Days will commence on Friday, November 28th at 5:00 pm with their light display at the Visitor Centre, which is located at 199 Carlow Road. Following this, the Lions Club will present their annual Dickens’ Days Parade at 7:00 pm. Festivities will continue Saturday morning at 10:30 with their debuting Dog Parade, ultimately coming to a close at 6:00 pm on the Sunday evening.
Asked what personally excites Ryan about this celebration, he responds with festive cheer, “I am looking forward to the traffic coming into town, and hopefully getting some smiles on faces. It will be great to get into the Christmas spirit and see how beautifully all of our local storefronts are decorated.” Harbour Holly Days offers free admission, with plenty of activities to enjoy and local businesses to explore. Visit the portstanleybia.net website for further information about the re- envisioned Harbour Holly Days, about which Ryan assures, “Event details will be posted on the BIA website, as well as on social media leading up to the event.”
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can ever be allowed to undermine that democratic principle. If maintaining that position causes discomfort, then, with regret but without apology, I must insist. Although I disagree with the integrity commissioner’s premise -- that enough questions asked in rapid succession amount to bullying, I reflect that the questions to which Ms. Herd was subjected might never have been necessary if Council had received a written report about the matter, digested it over the weekend, and submitted prepared questions in advance. Diligent councillors must ask questions. The key to this problem is whether those questions are proactive or reactive; whether they are planned and structured; asked with enough notice to allow staff to give fulsome responses, or whether councillors feel pressure to spill every conceivable concern on the spot… or forever hold their peace. Central Elgin is already over budget for legal expenses, and integrity complaints are costly. With recordings of our closed meetings, we could have proved or disproved the allegations quickly and without lengthy interviews. With written, closed session reports, we might have avoided the overabundance of questions, and negated any need of investigation completely. Accountability should not be adversarial — it should be built into our procedures. We can build systems that prevent mis- understandings, reduce conflict, and support both transparency and staff well-being. With the right policies, we can protect taxpayer dollars, improve accuracy in investigations, and create a healthier culture of accountability.
Councillor’s Corner Building Integrity through Transparency Policies by Councillor Morgaine Griffin In February of 2023, I brought forward a motion to record our council’s closed sessions. I believe in proactively adopting best practices, especially those recommended by the Ombudsman. The next month, I brought another motion. I asked that we stop receiving verbal-only reports in closed session. With written reports, we could arrive prepared. Both of these motions failed. This month, I faced a complaint about an unrecorded closed meeting — exactly the kind of scenario I had hoped to prevent. Our CAO spent beyond an amount directed by the council, and I questioned the authority to do so, as well as the precedent we create by allowing such actions. The complaint alleged that I shouted and that the CAO was interrogated. I stand by what I told our integrity commissioner: I did not shout; I did not attack. I agree that, when my questions were dismissed, I did repeat them. And I do not feel that repeating ignored questions amounts to bullying. I want to be clear: I take both integrity and empathy seriously. I feel for any staff person who feels anxious when a councillor questions their decisions. I do not wish that discomfort on anyone, and I would never rise to a tone or behaviour calculated to cause it. But I swore an oath to diligently care for our community. Community money must be directed in its use by representatives elected by and of the community. No person
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Port Stanley Poppy Project by Peri Hayes While introducing the Port Stanley Poppy Project, Kathy Howarth details, “With the dedication of 106 volunteers, I spearheaded this worthy initiative alongside Jackie Volotaire, who assisted me greatly with our social media presence.” Kathy offers the inspiration for this cause, describing, “When travelling through Stratford last November, I noticed the wonderful array of crocheted poppies throughout the Clearing Clearing Scaffolding Tough Jobs Made Easier Tough Jobs Made Easier
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community. I thought this was a simple and powerful way to honour and support our veterans, as well as showing support to the men and women who serve our great country.” Last month, members of the community joined creative forces to prepare a variety of poppies to be displayed throughout the lakeside village as a representation of unity and respect. The Legion was filled with volunteers assembling poppies by means of beading, crocheting, knitting and more. There were blankets, clothing items, wreaths and beyond -- all crafted with love and care. Signifying the community’s relationship to the harbour, poppies were also fastened onto fishing nets. “The Port Stanley Poppy Project is a heartfelt community initiative to honour our veterans and express our gratitude for their service and sacrifice,” Kathy voices. Materials were donated from community members and businesses, as Kathy graciously proceeds, “Because we have such a great community, we reached out about this initiative and were embraced.” One participant enthuses, “This has been a great way to meet people!” Another woman shares, “My father- in-law served in WWII, and my husband is in the Reserves.” Notably, Seasons St. Thomas Retirement Community knit and crocheted 500 poppies for the Port Stanley Poppy Project. Meanwhile, Angela Pettit highlights their team of four with the 741 Elgin Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, who symbolically crocheted 741 poppies. Angela reveals that she individually prepared another 1,000. Visit the village between November 1st to November 11th to explore these displays on the Bridge, at the Legion, the local Library, on their Village Post People, in storefronts and
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more. “These pieces will be painting the village red,” as Kathy emphasizes. The victimized animals will also be honoured, with the fence outside of Ports Pets presenting a sea of purple. Furthermore, there are volunteers carrying this momentum to their own neighbourhood. Most recently, members and friends conducted their annual Poppy Distribution Campaign on October 31st and November 1st. Poppy Chairperson, Anne Versteeg, announces that the Parade this November 9th will begin at 10:00 am. On November 11th, the Memorial Service at Veteran’s Park will commence in front of The Royal Canadian Legion Br. #410 — 310 George Street — at 10:55 am, for two minutes of silence to begin at 11:00 am. With inquiries regarding the Port Stanley Poppy Project, connect to a representative through ‘Port Stanley Poppy Project’ on Facebook. With their goal to create 1,2001 poppies, the Port Stanley Poppy Project team proudly accomplished 15,505 as of October 2nd. The creativity in this community is celebrated.
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Port Stanley Villager • November 2025 • Page 7
Celebrate the Season with the Christmas in Port Stanley Holiday Cookbook
Be sure to pick up your copy early and start trying these delicious recipes at home. And when you do, I would love to hear which recipes you most enjoy — your feedback and favourites are what make this cookbook truly come alive.
It’s no secret; I love Christ- mas. From twinkling lights to festive music, there’s some thing magical about the sea- son. But one of my abso- lute favourite holiday tradi- tions has always been the food. From family dinners to special treats, the flavours of Christmas bring people to- gether in a way nothing else can. That’s why I am so ex- cited to share the Christmas in Port Stanley Holiday Cook- book with you! This 28-page cookbook
Celebrate, cook, share, and enjoy. The holidays are better when we do it together, and there’s no better way to start than with a taste of Port Stanley.
Geoff’s Famous Carrot Cake Ingredients • 1¼ cups vegetable oil • 2 cups white sugar • 2 cups all purpose flour • 2 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp baking soda • 3 tsp cinnamon • 1 tsp nutmeg • 4 eggs • 3-4 cups grated carrots • 1/2 cup crushed pecans or walnuts • 1/2 cup raisins Cream Cheese Icing • 1 cup butter • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese • 4 cups icing sugar • 2–3 tbsp milk or cream Directions Preheat the oven to 325°F. Beat oil and sugar for 3 minutes.
The Grinch Cocktail A fun and festive green drink that’s as mischievous as its name, perfect for holiday celebrations. Ingredients • 1½ oz vodka • 1/2 oz blue curaçao • 4 oz pineapple juice • 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice • 1/2 oz simple syrup • 4 drops green food colouring (natural or regular) • Maraschino cherry, for garnish Directions Add vodka, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and food colouring to a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice. Shake well for about 10 seconds. Fill a cocktail glass with ice. Strain the drink into the prepared glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Sift in flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking soda, and blend with the oil and sugar mixture until well mixed. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well between each egg. Mix in carrots, nuts, and raisins. Pour into a well-greased 10-inch bundt pan. Bake for 60 to 75 minutes (keep an eye on it after 55 minutes). Cooking Tip: Deglaze your pan: After sautéing, use wine, broth, or water to deglaze and capture all the flavour from browned bits.
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is filled with incredible recipes perfect for whether you’re entertaining for the holidays or simply looking for a quick, delicious weeknight dinner. What makes this book extra special is that it’s not just a collection of my personal favourites; it also includes recipes contributed by members of our wonderful community. Together, we’ve created a book that truly celebrates the tastes and traditions of Port Stanley. Some of my personal favourites in the cookbook include the Sticky Toffee Pudding I make every year for Christmas dinner; my carrot cake, which is my birthday cake each year, and Staci’s cranberry sauce, a recipe that has become another holiday tradition in our household. Each dish tells a story, evokes memories, and, most importantly, tastes amazing. I began putting this cookbook together back in July, reaching out to contributors and local advertisers to bring the project to life. Thanks to their support, we are able to offer this cookbook entirely free to the community. It will be available throughout the village starting November 1st, and with 2,000 copies available, they’re sure to go fast. Whether you’re looking for a new family favourite, a special treat to share with friends, or inspiration for your holiday menu, the Christmas in Port Stanley Holiday Cookbook has something for everyone. It’s a small way to celebrate the season, enjoy incredible food, and connect with the community that makes Port Stanley so special.
Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • November 2025
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Christmas Bazaar Listings! Sunday, November 2nd Great Lakes Farms Christmas Market 5111 Union Rd, Port Stanley 10 am – 4 pm Check out the 2nd annual GLF Christmas Market! Saturday, November 8th Holy Angels Christmas Carols Bazaar 502 Talbot St, St Thomas 9 am – 1 pm
Christmas Craft Sale St. Thomas Senior Centre, 225 Chestnut St, St Thomas 8 am – 12 pm Vendors, baked goods & crafts. Sunday, November 23rd, 2025 Burke’s Produce Christmas Craft Market 6548 Sunset Rd 10 am – 3 pm Gifts, décor, food and music all in one festive space. Saturday, November 29th Port Stanley Arena Annual Christmas Bazaar 332 Carlow Rd, Port Stanley 9 am – 1 pm Local makers, artisans and vendors. Something for everyone with refreshments available. Saturday, November 29th & Sunday, November 30th Christkindl Market Saxonia Hall German Canadian Club, 522 Talbot St W., Aylmer 10 am – 4 pm Vendors and Saxonia Hall Brunch and frozen food will be available for purchase on both days. Thursday, December 4th St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce Youth Market CASO Station, 750 Talbot St., St. Thomas 5 pm – 7 pm Check out local youth vendors and their creations!
Something for everyone on your list! From Attic Treasures to Crafts, Bake Table, Canning, Toys and Sandwich/Soup Lunch. Handmade Christmas Show & Sale Masonic Centre of Elgin, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line 10 am – 4 pm Returning for the 9th annual Handmade Christmas Show & Sale. This Christmas tradition featuring locally made artisanal products from local vendors, all in time for the holidays. St. Thomas Anglican Church A Christmas Wonderland Bazaar 20 Flora St., St. Thomas 8 am – 1 pm Gift Baskets, jewellery, children’s table, sewing/knitting/crafts, bake table/preserves, frozen meat/fruit pies and much more. Also join them their breakfast and lunch café. St. Thomas Christian Church Christmas Bazaar 451 Wellington Street 8 am – 12 pm Christmas decor, knitwear, woodwork, candles, clothing, jewelry, baked goods, prepared meals, soup & chilli, coffee & tea, raffle & 50/50 with proceeds from the 50/50 going to support Hospice of Elgin. Friday, November 14th, 21st, 28th, December 5th CASO Station’s Christmas Night Markets 750 Talbot St., St. Thomas 5 pm – 9 pm Shop in the historic CASO Station as they host local vendors offering uniquely crafted items that would be perfect for any Christmas list. Saturday, November 15th Cranberry Courtyard Christmas Market St. Hilda’s – St. Luke’s Church, 185 Elm Street, St. Thomas 9 am – 1 pm
Saturday, December 13th The Ice Box Christmas Market Joe Thornton Community Centre 75 Caso Crossing, St. Thomas 11 am – 5 pm Come enjoy this truly Canadian Christmas with the walking track, the site of this year’s show, overlooking live hockey happening below. Enjoy year two of this event with a large variety of vendors!
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Port Stanley Villager • November 2025 • Page 9
LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE
Denise Antaya by Peri Hayes Denise Antaya is a Port Stanley-based artist, enthused about sharing her craft. She begins by detailing her background: “I have been drawing since I could hold a pencil. I was always interested in realism, and started to paint after going to an art show with my family when I was 12 years old. I had my first art show, Art by the River, when I was 14 years old.” As Denise candidly reveals, she graduated high school believing that Fine Art seemed a risky means to make a living. She consequently decided to study Advertising in postsecondary, spending 31.5 years in this field, with half of her career surrounding pre-press work in the studio. The remainder of her focus was in production, press approvals, PR work and more. “It was an exciting, fast-paced field that I loved. Fine Art was my side gig.” With earnestness, Denise proceeds, “After my husband died, I decided to go to art school -- a private atelier in Toronto that taught how to draw and paint like the masters. I have a long way to go, for sure, but that’s the fun and the challenge.” Oil paint is Denise’s preferred medium, though she has recently enjoyed experimenting with gouache. “Landscapes are my subjects of choice. I love the way light plays across a scene that is often overlooked, making it something special. Plein air is a necessary part for me, because a camera can never capture the colours like the eye does. Doing studio work is greatly enhanced by plein air practice and vice versa; they go hand in hand. I love sunrises and sunsets -- the golden hour where everything is bathed in warmth.” While reflecting on stand-out achievements from her artistic journey, Denise highlights, “A couple pieces come to mind: When Seconds Matter ... Your Gift Counts.
Spend the Holidays with Joshua & Company HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 7, 8 & 9 In Store Specials. Open 10-5 Daily HARBOUR HOLLY DAYS NOVEMBER 28, 29, 30 Promos exclude Jellycat merchandise Catching the Light, which is a scene of the barn on Sunset Drive in the winter with all the signs; a painting called Puddles, which got me on the TV show Landscape Artist of the Year Canada .” “We are fortunate to have so many creative, talented people in Port Stanley and the surrounding area.” In this vibrant lakeside village, art continuously grows and evolves. To this, Denise voices, “I think art plays a big part in the community, and should.
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connection, hope, and allows people to see the world through a different perspective. It is a visual reminder of where we were, and sometimes of where we are heading. There are no boundaries in art, and I feel lucky to be able to express the world around me -- in my way.”
Presently, Denise’s artwork is available at Westland Gallery in London, Village Studios in Stratford and the nearby Sparta Lavender Farm, along with the local Art & Soul Café and her home studio. For those interested in meeting with Denise to view her works in person, visit deniseantaya.com to connect with her. Moreover, Denise’s business cards detailing her contact information are accessible at Art & Soul Café. To learn more about this devoted artist, visit Denise on Instagram at ‘Denise Antaya’.
Be it theatre, visual art, writing, music -- it is necessary, providing hope and belief that there is something better. Art has a way of communicating that no language can. Engaging with art — especially during tough times — provides a sense of
Have Your Say!
Short-Term Rental Licensing Attention Short-Term Rental Operators in Central Elgin! Short-Term Rental Licence Applications are now being accepted.
JET SKI RENTAL FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS The Municipality of Central Elgin is exploring the feasibility of allowing a third-party operated jet ski rental business in Port Stanley Harbour. As part of this process, staff are conducting a feasibility analysis and seeking input from the community to help guide decision-making. Your feedback will help ensure that any future decisions align with local values and reflect the community’s expectations for how the waterfront is used and enjoyed.
Starting January 1, 2026, operators must have a Short-Term Rental Licence before advertising, marketing, or renting a short-term rental property in Central Elgin. Our team is here to help you through the application process and answer any questions!
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Port Stanley Villager • November 2025 • Page 11
Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events Pre-School Storytime Port Stanley Library, every Tuesday at 10:00 am. Join us for songs, stories, and a craft. Ages 0 – 5 and their caregiver. Nia with Gillian Union Sports and Community Centre, every Friday at 10 am. Contact Vicki 519-631-9294. 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. APSA Squared at the Theatre Port Stanley Festival Theatre, During PSFT box office hours from now until late November. Association of Port Stanley Artists presents display and sale of “square” original art – on now until late November. Art is for sale and fabulous. Monday November 3rd, 2025 Port Stanley Art Guild Accepting New Members Port Stanley United Church, 7 pm – 10 pm. 239 Colborne St, Port Stanley.
Port Stanley Villager
The guild is just gearing up this year and welcoming new members. Just show up! More info at portstanleyartguild.com. Card Making Port Stanley Library, 1 pm – 3 pm. Create handmade cards with Jean. Cost: $10 Saturday November 8th, 2025 Wildflowers X-Mas Market 42338 Fruit Ridge Line, 10 am – 3 pm Wildflowers annual Christmas market, filled with vendors, food and a sleigh full of unique gifts! Thursday November 20th, 2025 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. We will discuss When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole. Everybody welcome. Sunday November 23rd, 2025 Burke’s Produce Christmas Market 6548 Sunset Rd, 10 am – 3 pm Local vendors, music, and unique gifts! Monday November 24th, 2025 Scrapbooking Port Stanley Library, 10 am – 12 pm. Organize your photos. Cost: $10. Dementia Education Session Port Stanley Library, from 2 pm – 3 pm. The Alzheimer Society will review the early warning signs of dementia. November 28th – 30th, 2025 Harbour Holly Days Throughout the village. For more details and times see page 4. The Port Stanley Library and Port Stanley Festival Theatre are located at 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. The Union Sports & Community Centre is located at 6068 Bell St., Union 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.
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 Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Copyright @ 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 .
"They who for their country die shall fill an honoured grave, for glory lights the soldier's tomb and beauty weeps the brave." Joseph Drake We Remember
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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • November 2025
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Discover the Magic of Port Stanley this November: A Season of Reflection, Celebration and Community Spirit by Marna Berry
Charles Dickens’ classic tale, this staged reading brings to life the timeless message and festive charm of the story. The festive atmosphere is further amplified by the Port Stanley Terminal Rail Santa Train Rides on November 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and 30th. These rides offer a journey through Elgin County’s autumn landscape from the comfort of a heated car, with Santa providing treats. The 28th Annual Port Stanley Dickens Day Parade on November 28th lights up the streets with floats inspired by Dickens’ spirit, em- bodying the magic of the season and bringing joy to faces, young and old. This year, the BIA is embracing a more versatile and expan- sive theme with new attractions and a complete rebranding, moving forward from Dickens Days to the inaugural Harbour Holly Days. Enjoy the “Illuminate The Lights” at the Visitors Centre on the 28th at 5:00 PM, followed by the Lions’ Dickens Parade at 7:00 pm. The weekend following the parade is packed with Santa’s Workshops, Horse Drawn Carriage rides, and an Alpaca Petting Zoo, other family-oriented contests and musicians in Glover Park. Conclude with a communal Christmas Carol Sing at the historical Christ Anglican Church on Sunday, November 30th, 3 pm to 4:30 pm. This November, Port Stanley invites you to be part of a com- munity that celebrates its heroes, enjoys cultural richness, and embraces the festive spirit leading into the holiday season. Whether you’re a visitor seeking the unique charm of our village or a resident eager to partake in the traditions and events, Port Stanley in November is the place to be. Visit local shops and eateries – it’s a perfect opportunity to support local artisans and find unique gifts. Let’s create unforgettable moments together, celebrating the magic that makes this season truly special. Ice and Lounge Rentals Available
November in Port Stanley, Ontario, is a canvas painted with the crisp hues of autumn and the vibrant anticipation of the festive season ahead. This special month is a time when the village doesn’t just endure chillier days but thrives, weaving together events that warm the heart, honour our rich history, and welcome the festive season with open arms. Let’s embark on a journey through what makes November in Port Stanley a truly enchanting time for both residents and visitors. At the heart of November’s events is the reflective Remembrance Day services hosted by the Port Stanley Legion. It’s a time for the community to come together in gratitude and remembrance to honour our veterans. The parade begins on Main Street at 10:45 am on Sunday, November 9th, leads to the Legion for a service at 10:55 am culminating in the 11:00 am observed silence, with a fly-by and words from local dignitaries. An intimate wreath-laying ceremony follows on Tuesday, November 11th, serving as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for our freedom. As we pay homage to our past, we also embrace past and present, and look forward to the future with events that capture the joy and hope of the season. The Port Stanley Festival Theatre’s presentation of A Christmas Carol on November 29th promises to enchant audiences. Adapted by Liz Gilroy from
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Hark! The Carollers Sing in Port Stanley The sound of familiar carols and the spirit of community will fill Christ Anglican Church in Port Stanley during the Dickens Days Christmas Carol Sing on Sunday, November 30, from 3:00 to 4:30 pm. The event follows the beloved Dickens Days Parade and promises to be an afternoon of festive warmth, music and tradition. Set inside the historic church at 283 Colborne Street, the Carol Sing will feature Mayor Andrew Sloan at the organ, joined by Brian and Lynn Sloan on keyboards. Guests can also look forward to special performances, a community sing-along, and seasonal refreshments, including hot cider, tea, coffee, and homemade Christmas cookies. For Marna Berry of the Parish Council, whose family’s connection to the church dates back to its construction in 1845, the event
represents something deeply meaningful. “What excites me most about this event is the opportunity to witness and be part of the continuation of centuries-old traditions of community gathering and celebration,” says Marna. “Since 1845, these traditions have been the heartbeat of our community during the Christmas season, and it’s a privilege to contribute to their ongoing legacy. The Dickens Days Christmas Carol Sing is not just an event; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of community, heritage, and the timeless joy of Christmas music.” The carol sing was inspired by Andrew’s memories of a similar event from his childhood. “I came up with the idea because I always enjoyed the Old St. Thomas Church carol sing and wanted to bring it to Port Stanley,” says Andrew. “My mother, Cela Sloan, was always part of that event, and I’ve seen firsthand how much people enjoy the chance to sing and celebrate the season while supporting a worthwhile cause.” Andrew’s favourite carol, Hark the Herald Angels Sing , holds special significance: “It was one of the first carols I learned to play on the piano. Dickens Days are an annual highlight for me and many residents who look forward to everything from the parade to the carriage rides. I think the Carol Sing could start an annual tradition which makes the weekend even better.”Admission to the Days Christmas Carol Sing is by goodwill offering, a decision that reflects the event’s inclusive nature. As Marna explains, “It’s about community connection. The goodwill offering ensures everyone can share in the joy of music and celebration, regardless of financial circumstances.” The afternoon promises not only beautiful music but also the warmth of neighbours gathered together, a perfect way to usher in the Christmas season.
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Port Stanley Villager • November 2025 • Page 15
Healing Through the Arts
Gift Shop Now Open! The Veterans Art Gallery Gift shop has unique gifts. Specialized T-shirts, puzzles, hats, sculptures, pins, limited edition prints and original paintings.
Our Mission: The Veterans Art Gallery in Port Stanley is a unique project dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming space where veterans can share their stories, heal, and connect through art. Our veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms, but many return home facing invisible battles. How We Help Our Veterans: The gallery provides veterans with a space to display their artwork, host workshops, and participate in art therapy sessions. It’s not just a gallery—it’s a community, a space for creativity, and a refuge for healing. Here, veterans can express their experiences and emotions in ways that words sometimes cannot capture. How You Can Help Our Veterans: Help Us Bring Healing Through Art: Support the Veterans Art Gallery in Port Stanley, Ontario 211 Main Street Port Stanley. To donate visit veteransartgallery.org.
211 Main Street, Port Stanley, Ontario • 519-200-1616 support@veteransartgallery.org • veteransartgallery.org OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS
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