Port Stanley Villager July-August 2026 Issue 80
Letter from the Editor Summer has arrived, and with it comes one of the great annual struggles of my life – the garden. Now, to be clear, this is not a battle between me and nature. Nature has already won. This is a battle between me and my desire to avoid doing yard work. I enjoy having a garden. I enjoy looking at a garden. I enjoy sitting on my back deck with a cold drink and
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admiring the nicely cut grass, the flowers, the vegetables, and the various maple trees that seem to appear out of nowhere every spring. What I do not enjoy is gardening. Many years ago, I learned an important lesson: if there is a task you absolutely hate doing, and someone else can do it better, it may be worth paying them. For me, that task is cutting grass. When I did it, mowing the lawn was a 45-minute to one-hour exercise in frustration. The mower would bounce across my uneven lawn while I sweated, complained and wondered why grass insists on growing so quickly. Edging and weed-whacking barely existed in my world. Then I finally gave in and hired a landscaper. Best decision ever. These folks arrive like a highly trained tactical unit. In about 15 minutes, the grass is cut, the edges are trimmed, and the yard looks like it belongs in a magazine. I don’t know how they do it, but I appreciate every second of it. The way I see it, I can spend that time doing work I enjoy and let professionals handle the chores I don’t. Flowers are a different story. I like planting flowers. That’s the easy part. Weeding, however, is another matter. At six-foot-four and getting older every year, spending an afternoon on my hands and knees pulling weeds is not my idea of fun; add in the fact that I burn faster than toast left unattended, and gardening becomes even less appealing. Still, nature has a funny way of surprising us. A couple of years ago, I forgot to put away some planter boxes for the winter. When spring arrived, I discovered things growing in them. Since I’m not exactly a master gardener, I wasn’t sure if they were flowers or weeds. As it turned out, some industrious squirrel had apparently borrowed lily bulbs from a neighbour and planted them for me. The flowers were beautiful. I hope your summer is filled with beautiful flowers, warm sunshine, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy your yard. And if you’re anything like me, I hope you’ve found someone else to do the weeding – unless, of course, you actually enjoy gardening. In that case, carry on, and know that I admire your dedication from a comfortable chair on the deck. The Christmas in Port Stanley Cookbook is coming back . Want to be part of it? Submit your recipes to geoff@villagerpublications.com and you could see your recipe in this years edition! Submit by August 31st.
Written by Kristen Da Silva
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DEADLY MEMORIES July 29 to August 15 Written by Steven Gallagher
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SHIP TO SHORE Written by Norm Foster WORLD PREMIERE
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Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026
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Port Stanley Festival Theatre Hosts World Premiere: ‘Ship to Shore’ by Peri Hayes In exciting news, Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT) will be hosting the world premiere of Norm Foster’s Ship to Shore . As the playwright details, this piece was written in 2024. Norm describes the title ‘popping’ into his head one day, upon which he felt inspired to create this story. “Some ideas take a long time to ferment in my brain, but this one happened pretty quickly.” “ Ship to Shore is the story of two Canadians who meet on a ship which is bound for Ireland,” Norm introduces about the storyline. “Erin is going there to attend her father’s funeral, and James is going to bring his daughter back to Canada to spend the summer with him. Even though it can best be categorized as a rom-com, it goes far beyond that.” Ship to Shore previously participated in PSFT’s Simon Joynes Playwrights’ Festival, 2025 – live readings. About this opportunity, Norm shares, “I was present for the reading, and my two grown children were there. It was an enjoyable time, and the audience was very kind.” Celebrating this upcoming milestone in Port Stanley with dear friends, Norm expresses about the Ship to Shore debut, “I am excited about this world premiere happening in Port Stanley. I know Liz Gilroy well, and I know that she will do a great job directing the show. I also have a friend and fellow playwright acting in the show, Mark Crawford.” Liz, too, highlights their notable performers, Mark and Cailin Stadnyk, followed by further enthusiasm: “I can’t wait for our audience to see this set; we’ve never done a cruise ship before.” As the PSFT Artistic Director cheers, “Full of laughs and witty dialogue, this may become a new Norm Foster classic.” To conclude, Norm offers his feelings surrounding the longevity of his professional pursuit: “I’m proud that I’ve been able to continue my writing career for this long. I wrote my first play, Sinners , back in 1983, so I’ve been around for quite a while. I’m always excited about premiering a new play, because it’s an unknown quantity and I really don’t know how it’s going to be received by an audience. I have high hopes for each new play, but I never really know until I hear the reaction from that first audience – it feels like walking on a tightrope. I hope that people enjoy the play!”
Ongoing at PSFT from August 19th to September 5th, visit psft.ca or their Box Office on Bridge Street to secure your ticket(s) for another captivating Norm Foster experience!
Port Stanley Villager July-August 2026 cover
Found at Little Beach in Port is the Toy Lending Library, a brilliant idea so parents don’t have to drag beach toys with them amongst the towels and the chairs! Photo by Geoff Rae
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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 3
Syd Tangney Introduces Port Stanley Rickshaw by Peri Hayes The local Syd Tangney has brought his rickshaw service to fruition in the lakeside village. This rickshaw is a motorized single horse cart, pulled by Syd and carrying up to two passengers. As a community-oriented entrepreneur who enjoys thinking outside of the box, Syd narrates, “This idea came to mind, and I thought it’d be perfect to launch in Port Stanley.” The Port Stanley Rickshaw debuted during the long weekend in May, about which Syd reports, “It was a big hit!” Elaborating on what inspired his business in the lakeside village, Syd describes having spent time in Port Stanley and thinking to himself, “Wow – I know that I want to end up here.” Syd relocated from Toronto last year, upon which he immediately began his involvement as a boxing coach, as well as with the Legion. While further reflecting, Syd shares, “I retired from construction in September, and this is a nice retirement gig for me. Everything about the experience has been positive, and offering this service just makes sense to me. I love socializing and being active, and this is good for the community.” As the weather warms, the heart of Port Stanley Rickshaw ex- presses what he is looking forward to: “It’s going to be fun for lo- cals and tourists to be carted around. I have had a couple of people approach me about wedding rides, which I will certainly offer. We can decorate my cart, and I have recently ordered a funky costume with a long-tailed tuxedo for these celebra- tory occasions.” Syd invites, “People can ask for a spin over to Riva, Port Stanley Brewing, local shops and so on. I can travel from Point A to Point B, or through the village for passengers to sightsee. I am
offering this as a free service, though tips are accepted and passengers are welcome to tip what they feel the ride is worth.” Operating on Saturdays and Sundays, Port Stanley Rickshaw begins at 11:00 am. “I continue until the day is done which can go into the evening, though not after dark.” Furthermore, Syd conveys, “I usually rest up at the Fire Hall Market, considering this as my main location. I have been parking out front, and this has been a good spot for visibility.” With evident cheer, Syd concludes, “I am having so much fun with this! I appreciate all of the people who wave to me, and I am happy to make people giggle along the way.” Syd looks forward to connecting with more community members and tourists this summer season. Email tangneysydney@gmail.com with inquiries about Syd’s service, as well as visit the Port Stanley Rickshaw Facebook page for information and updates.
Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026
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Councillor’s Corner Vacant, Not Empty: Finding the Potential Within Unused Buildings by Morgaine Griffin Vacant buildings are on a lot of minds in Port Stanley right now, and for good reason. An unused building isn’t just an eyesore. It can be a safety hazard and a missed opportunity for housing or business in a community people want to be part of. So what can a municipality actually do? Two tools are worth understanding. The first is a vacant building registry. St. Thomas recently explored one, and the concept is straightforward: vacant properties get listed. This isn’t punitive; it’s practical. When our volunteer firefighters respond to a call, knowing whether a building is occupied or empty could save lives. A registry also helps distinguish between a cottage closed for winter and a building that’s been sitting neglected for years.
Not all vacancy is the same. The second tool is a vacancy tax. Where a registry identifies, a tax motivates; an owner choosing to leave a building unused would pay into a fund that could support downtown beautification and community improvement — meaning the neighbourhood benefits regardless of what that owner decides to do. In an ideal tax policy, I envision a tax that increases the longer a building remains vacant. What’s important is that these tools neither confiscate property nor dictate how an owner must use it. I’ve been in conversation with our fire chief about what a registry would look like for Central Elgin, and I have a motion prepared for the end of June meeting. To the many residents who shared their vacant building experiences and ideas with me, thank you for helping to get this conversation started.
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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 5
Port Stanley Festival Theatre Presents World Premiere: ‘Deadly Memories’ by Peri Hayes Steven Gallagher began playwriting twenty years ago, and has been performing for double. With Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT) hosting the world premiere of Deadly Memories , Steven offers insight into what inspired this narrative: “Some of my earliest memories in the theatre were of seeing thrillers and mysteries at Summer Stock. Deadly Memories is my way of trying to recapture that excitement that you can only get in a theatre. I’m hoping people have some laughs, thrills, and a really fun night out.” With Deadly Memories classified as a thriller/comedy, Steven offers, “I love Hitchcock movies, and this is a bit of an homage to those films. It’s a modern take on that genre with fun and creepy updates.” Avoiding spoilers, Steven concisely reveals a taste of what this storyline entails: “After a car accident leaves her with amnesia, Cassandra retreats with her husband to a cabin on an isolated island on Lake Erie, hoping the familiar setting will restore her memory. When strange visions begin to haunt the cabin and her estranged sister arrives, the weekend spirals into a darkly comic game of manipulation, paranoia, and survival. As buried memories resurface, Cassandra must uncover the truth before the storm traps her on the island with a killer.” As Steven further shares, “This play came about because I wanted to work with Liz Gilroy, the Artistic Director of PSFT! Liz and I have been friends for over thirty years, and it has been especially wonderful working with someone who is as excited about this as I am.” To this, Liz enthuses, “It was always my intention to direct the
show, as I have been the dramaturg for this piece. It is an absolute pleasure to collaborate with Steven. This is a brand new genre for PSFT, and I can’t wait to share this with our patrons.” Deadly Memories participated in PSFT’s Simon Joynes Play- wrights’ Festival, 2025 – live readings, about which Steven reflects: “There aren’t many events that are committed to supporting new Canadian plays, so it was an honour to be included. The Port Stanley audiences are very committed to their theatre, and it was great to hear their thoughts and questions after the reading.” Regarding the upcoming debut of Deadly Memories , Steven concludes with cheer, “I’m especially excited that the premiere is happening in Port Stanley, because of its long history of premiering new Canadian work – it’s a real thrill to be part of that.” Presented at
PSFT from July 29th to August 15th, visit psft.ca or their Box Office on Bridge Street to secure your Deadly Memories ticket(s) today!
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Seniors Picnic in the Park Returns for Its 27th Year For nearly three decades, the Seniors Picnic in the Park has been one of the most anticipated summer events for older adults across Elgin County. On Wednesday, July 8, seniors from throughout the region will once again gather at Pinafore Park in St. Thomas for a day of entertainment, community connections, information and fun as the event celebrates its 27th year.
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com For seniors across Elgin County, that’s exactly what makes the Seniors Picnic in the Park a tradition worth celebrating. The event will run rain or shine at Pinafore Park (95 Elm St., St. Thomas). Bring a water bottle and a lawn chair, and we will see you there! As presenting sponsor, Tammy says the event aligns perfectly with Nurse Next Door’s philosophy. “Our core values at Nurse Next Door align beautifully with everything this event represents and offers. Our philosophy of care centres around Happier Aging, and the Seniors Picnic in the Park creates an opportunity to connect and celebrate together.” For Tammy, the highlight is seeing the community come together. “It is always a day filled with much joy, great music and memorable moments.” Running from 9 am to 2 pm, the free event has become a summer tradition that welcomes hundreds of attendees each year. According to Sara Sweeney, Co-Chair of Seniors Picnic in the Park and Public Education Coordinator with Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners, the picnic continues to thrive because of its focus on bringing people together. The day begins with the opening of Vendor Alley at 9 am, featuring more than 40 vendors offering information, resources, giveaways and community services. “At each entrance within Pinafore Park, there will be a bag for you to fill with all the free swag,” Sara says. Live music begins at 10 am, with local dignitaries and elected officials welcoming attendees at noon, followed by dozens of door prize draws and more music. Visitors can also enjoy an antique car show, food vendors, accessible washrooms and parking, and free water stations throughout the park. Transportation support is also available. “We always work with local transportation services in St. Thomas to provide free rides on the local Railway City Transit,” Sara explains. This year’s event is again proudly presented by Nurse Next Door, whose owner and director, Tammy Bale, has become a passionate supporter of the picnic and its mission. “I loved the idea of a day dedicated to celebrating the seniors in our community,” says Tammy. Her decision to join the organizing committee came from a desire to give back locally. “Being able to contribute meaningfully to my community means a lot to me, and this was the perfect fit.”
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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 7
Littles Midnight Bistro – Bar – Bakery by Peri Hayes Tianna Stelzl of Littles Midnight Bistro – Bar – Bakery introduces herself and life partner, Brent Greenway: “Mom and Dad, Chef and Server, Dishwasher and Accountant – we are the founders and foundation to this dream.” Brent pursued culinary school following the passing of his mother, dedicating his expertise to various kitchens before transitioning for the next decade to the realm of carpentry through door and trim service. Meanwhile, with her audio engineering degree, Tianna spent time in this field before working for a decade at Starbucks. After welcoming their babies into the world, Tianna and Brent leapt at this opportunity to embark on their bakery and bistro journey.
youngest child. I loved baking for friends and family, and was trying to make a little extra money for our family.” Tianna reveals that ‘Littles’ in their business name represents their children, Bryson and Teegan, while ‘Midnight’ represents tucking them into bed and fulfilling business orders throughout all hours of the evening. Littles Midnight has since located to the Telegraph House in Port Stanley and evolved into wholesale, ultimately bringing their restaurant visions to fruition. About the menu, the pair highlight their fresh ingredients and weekly features, along with sourdough bread and croissants, salads, wraps, and incredibly flavourful artisan sandwiches. They serve coffee, tea, freshly squeezed lemonade, and specialty drinks. Moreover, their bar
Proud to be operating with their small team of staff, Littles Midnight officially opened for business during Labour Day weekend in 2025. Tianna reflects, “The bistro started out as a custom order bakery while I was on maternity leave with our ” make a BIG difference. little things The “
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Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026
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menu offerings include beer, mead, mixed drinks, and wine. As Tianna cheerfully suggests, “Shop Latika Fashions while you wait for your food. Bring your glass of wine shopping with you!” Tianna and Brent are delighted to offer curated platters, filled with items from their menu and with delivery available. As well, they have a room service option and packages prepared with care for visitors at the Inn On The Harbour, along with delivering breakfast boxes to guests staying at Kettle Creek Inn. Gluten-free and vegan options are presented, along with modifications to various items on their menu. “We only use ingredients that contribute to your health,” Tianna exclaims. “This includes almond flours, oats, cinnamon, applesauce, coconut, and the only sweetener we use is dates or maple syrup.”
About their delectable menu, Tianna beams: “Our most popular lunch items are our Prosciutto Cranberry Apple Brie Sandwich, Caesar Sal - ad, Chicken Caesar Wrap and our feature wrap, Chick- en BLT Avocado Smash Wrap.” Build upon your meal with their exclusive blend of coffee, roasted around the
are thrilled to be directing focus toward quality food in a welcoming environment. “Our patio is a garden courtyard offering an inviting and relaxing space.” Littles Midnight has a unique ambiance in that they are tucked inside of a historic century home, surrounded by nature and being a short stroll to the lake. Littles Midnight Bistro – Bar – Bakery is located at 205 Main Street and operates Monday to Sunday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm, closed on Sundays from December to May. Those with inquiries are encouraged to explore their Facebook and Instagram profiles at LittlesMidnightBistroBarBakery, as well as phone or email
corner at locally owned, The Harbour Merchant. For dessert, the Littles Midnight butter tarts and gluten-free, vegan brown- ies have also been particularly popular and well-enjoyed. While expressing her excitement about Littles Midnight Bistro – Bar – Bakery, Tianna emphasizes the importance of their local suppliers and appreciated partnerships with surrounding businesses. Facilitating their ‘sit down service’, Tianna and Brent
Tianna directly at 519-808-1392 and tianna@littlesmidnightbakery.com.
From our family to yours
Stop in for fresh and locally grown fruits, vegetables and other great local products!
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com (519) 631-1370 5680 Sunset Road (on the way to Port Stanley) Open 7 days a week. www.debackerefarmmarket.ca
Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 9
A Pride of Lions and Lioness The Port Stanley Lions Club and Lioness Club are once again giving back to the community in a big way. On May 30, the two service clubs hosted their third annual Community Appreciation Day, welcoming residents to enjoy free hot dogs and Mackie’s Orangeade while celebrating the organizations that help make the community stronger. As part of the event, the clubs presented nearly $49,000 in donations to eight deserving organizations. Recipients included the Port Stanley and Area Community Cupboard ($9,000), Camp Dorset ($900), YWCA ($4,400), Breakthrough T1D ($3,300), Pearce Williams Summer Camp ($1,500), and the Barrie Family Hospice Centre of Elgin ($4,500). The largest donation, $27,000, was presented to Central Elgin Fire and Rescue and used toward the purchase of a new utility vehicle to support local emergency services. Community Appreciation Day highlights the ongoing commit- ment of the Lions and Lioness Clubs to supporting local organi- zations and strengthening the community they proudly serve.
Wednesday July 8th 9am – 2pm Pinafore Park 95 Elm St., St. Thomas Celebrating a 27-Year Tradition of Music, Fun & Camaraderie Bring a lawn chair
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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026
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Finding Balance by the Beach For many people, a trip to the beach is about relaxation. For Susan Dugas of Kalei- doscope Studio, it is also the perfect place to connect mind, body and community. This summer, Susan wel- comes residents and vis- itors to experience Beach Yoga at Little Beach every Friday at 9 am, combining the benefits of movement and mindfulness with one of the village’s most beauti - ful natural settings. “When I started thinking about tak- ing our yoga practice out- doors for the summer, the beach was the obvious choice,” says Susan. “I live just down the street, and Little Beach is only a short walk, about 300 steps, from Kaleidoscope Studio.”
FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6”h Funds raised throughout the summer will support several local causes, including the Elgin County Drowning Prevention Coalition, the Port Stanley Bandshell, 200 Trees for 200 Years, Can-Fix Humane and Ethical Treatment of Dogs, PSVA Access, Inclusion & Aging in Place, and Fur-Ever Wild Rehabilitation. This summer, that welcoming space just happens to come with sand between your toes and the sound of waves in the background. PROOF DATE: Feb 20, 2024 TROSUN-0324-MAR-LNE-IBC-01 JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6”h PROOF DATE: Feb 20, 2024 PROOF #: TROSUN-0324-MAR-LNE-IBC-01 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP can’t be replicated inside four walls,” Susan says. “Our Beach Yoga practice is designed for all abilities and experience levels. The focus is stretching, breathing, moving with intention, and the opportunity to connect with yourself and your community.” Participants don’t need previous yoga experience to join. The classes are intentionally welcoming and accessible, reflecting the philosophy that has helped make Kaleidoscope Studio a valued part of the Port Stanley wellness community. “We love to practice outdoors,” says Susan. “The sunshine can boost your mood and energy. Fresh air encourages deeper, fuller breaths. The sound of the waves creates a sense of calm, helping to quiet the mind. Sinking into the sand beneath your mat helps keep you grounded and in the present moment.” That connection to both nature and community is at the heart of the program. While classes take place on a public beach and are free to attend, participants are encouraged to make a donation of $5 or $10 if they are able. “As a studio, we’re proud to be part of the Port Stanley community all year long,” Susan says. “Beach Yoga is one of the ways we can bring people together while supporting organizations that make our community stronger.”
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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 11
Calipso Calls: Community, Culture, and Countdown by Marna Berry, Travel Consultant & Experiential Guide Many people know the name, but C.A.L.I.P.S.O is not only an acronym — it is a heartfelt invitation to Come And Live
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 momentum from last year has laid a powerful foundation for what is shaping up to be our most spectacular event yet, running this August 1 to 3 long weekend. But an event of this scale doesn’t just happen; it takes a village to lift a festival. This year, we are taking major strides toward sustainability and local business support. Thanks to the generous support of the Port Stanley BIA, we are introducing a Free Shuttle from St. Thomas to Port Stanley to ease traffic congestion and offer a stress-free option for visitors. Also to ensure our local merchants feel the benefit of these crowds, we are transforming our traditional Marketplace into a Community Organization Showcase and launching a village-wide Treasure Hunt activity. In Port Stanley Ontario, even if it’s just for a magical long weekend. Last year, the festival was a success, drawing a surge in daily visitors to our beautiful lakeside village. This remarkable turnout showed the festival’s appeal and proved how deeply people want to connect with our maritime culture. Excitingly, we have officially become a registered non-profit organization! This status marks a milestone for us, and we look forward to growing the festival each year.
Photos on pages 12 and 13 by Hot Shoe Hustle.
Open Wednesday-Saturday 11am-5pm Sunday 11am-4pm 215 Main Street Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca
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.
Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026
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This will guide foot traffic straight into the core business community, encouraging visitors to explore our fantastic local shops, boutiques, and restaurants. *New island vibes Sol & Sea Marquee, proudly featuring local favourites by Skye Chase Winery and Port Stanley Brewing Co. The Marquee will be alive with rhythm all weekend long. Saturday and Sunday feature a Live Latin DJ and Free Salsa Dance Lessons right on the sand. Over at Mermaid Cove, kids and families can meet our visiting mermaids for magical waterfront photos. It all builds up to our spectacular Sunday Night Fireworks over Lake Erie! The nautical fun continues across the village all weekend with exhilarating half hour Calipso Boat rides and make sure to catch Captain Thom Bedlam’s Pirate Magic Show over in Glover Park—a thrilling treat for the young and young at heart. Then, gather along the waterfront on Saturday at 1:00 PM for our annual Boat Parade! Our incredible local service clubs are bringing massive energy to our family programming this year with fantastic free events. The Port Stanley Kiwanis Club is hosting a swashbuckling zone filled with Pirate-themed Free Games & Prizes that will delight the little adventurers. Meanwhile, the Port Stanley Optimist Club is keeping the excitement rolling with their annual Bike Rodeo, alongside the Family Sandcastle Contest, complete with wonderful prizes for the most creative designs. On Holiday Monday, the excitement continues with the classic Antique Car Show featuring the Canadian Bombshell Beauties. An event of this magnitude is a collaborative effort. We extend
our heartfelt gratitude to Domus Development, Riva and Port Stanley Brewing Company for anchoring our festivities since it’s’ revival, and for making our spectacular fireworks blast possible. We are also immensely grateful to Elgin County Grants as well as local business and community sponsors for their vital support, which keeps our traditions thriving. We are currently looking for visionary businesses to join these community leaders. For our $10,000 Flagship Sponsors, we offer premium brand alignment, including high-visibility logo placement on the Salsa Lesson Stage and the Mermaid Photo Backdrop — the two most photographed spots of the weekend. If you want to position your brand at the heart of summer fun, we want to hear from you. Behind the scenes is a dedicated volunteer committee working tirelessly to bring this vision to life. I want to personally thank our incredible team! We are currently looking for passionate volunteers roles: Shuttle Greeters, Event Ambassadors, Sol & Sea Marquee Crew, and Calipso Boat Rides Coordinators
This is your official invitation to Come And Live In Port Stanley this August 1st to 3rd. Come for the music, stay for the fireworks, support local, and make memories that last a lifetime. Ready to join the waves? To find out more about sponsorship packages, sign up to volunteer, or check out our full schedule of events, visit our brand-new website: www.portstanleycalipso.com.
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To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 13 www . domusdev . com | call or text 519.870.1335 | mmescia @ domusdev . com MOVE IN NOW MOVE IN NOW www . domusdev . com | call or text 519.870.1335 | mmescia @ domusdev . com
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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events 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. Tuesday July 7th, 2026 Marine Fossils Port Stanley Library, 11 am. See, touch and learn about Marine Fossils with Western University. Registration required. Tuesday July 14th, 2026 Magic Show Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Captain Corbin’s Dive In! pirate magic show, full of fishy fun tricks! Registration required. Tuesday July 21st, 2026 Water Safety Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Central Elgin Fire and Rescue will join us for a fun water-safety demo and a visit to the rescue boat. Registration required. Port Stanley and Area Community Cupboard Christ Church, 283 Colborne St, Port Stanley, 3:30 – 6 pm. Need food? Visit the Cupboard for food assistance and community support. Thursday July 23rd, 2026 Port Stanley and Area Community Cupboard. Christ Church, 283 Colborne St, Port Stanley, 10 am – 12 pm. Need food? Visit the Cupboard for food assistance and community support. Tuesday July 28th, 2026 Relaxing Yoga Port Stanley Library, 11 am, Join a fun Kids’ Yoga Class with Paul (yoga mats provided). Registration required. Tuesday August 4th, 2026 Island Princess Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Meet an Island Princess (Yes, she looks a lot like Moana!) Registration required. Tuesday August 11th, 2026 Splash into Colour Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Join us for a kids’ watercolour painting class, all materials provided. Registration required.
Port Stanley Villager
Tuesday August 18th, 2026 Indoor Pool Party Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Indoor Pool Party and ice cream wrap-up Summer Reading Party! Registration required. Tuesday August 25th, 2026 Guitar Lesson Port Stanley Library, 11 am. Beginner guitar lessons with Paul Gagnon. Bring your own instrument. Registration required. 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. The Christmas in Port Stanley Cookbook is coming back . Want to be part of it? Submit your recipes to geoff@villagerpublications.com and you could see your recipe in this years edition! Submit by August 31st.
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it
Psalm 118:24
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2026 • Page 15
Beach Season is Here: Know Before You Go Paid parking is in effect daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Boat Launch Lot is enforced 24/7. Please use designated parking areas and pay using the HONK App, Pay-by-Plate machines (credit card or coins), or seasonal parking pass. Public washrooms and changerooms at Main Beach are open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Public washrooms at the Port Stanley Visitor Centre are also open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Little Beach Washroom Trailer is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. No alcohol, smoking, or vaping is permitted on beaches. Bonfires, barbecues, or outdoor cooking devices are not permitted on beaches.
Borrow a lifejacket for free at Main Beach. Lifejackets are available at the central lifeguard tower during lifeguard beach patrol hours. Lifejackets are available in Adult, Youth, Child, and Infant sizes and can be borrowed at no cost. Lifejacket Lending Program Main Beach is patrolled July through to September. Lifeguards are stationed at five lifeguard towers. Lifeguards are on duty at Port Stanley Main Beach: Monday to Friday: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, Sunday, and holidays: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Lifeguards at Main Beach Port Stanley Main Beach has once again been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag designation for 2026, marking 16 consecutive years of recognition for meeting the highest international standards in water quality, environmental management, safety, accessibility, and visitor services. Blue Flag Designation 2026
Find water and beach safety tips at centalelgin.org
centralelgin.org
info@centralelgin.org
519-631-4860
450 Sunset Drive
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