Port Stanley Villager October 2025

Port Stanley Villager October 2025 Issue 72

Letter from the Editor Let me begin this month by saying what I’m thankful for. In no particular order, I am thankful for the love of my family and friends. I’m thankful that we live in this beautiful country, which, while not perfect, is pretty darn close. I’m thankful for another year of health and prosperity. I’m thankful that I’ve had another year of being a lucky guy who gets to do what he loves for a living. I’m thankful for the NFL, Go Chiefs! And finally, I’m thankful to live in a community that truly understands the value of supporting local. While I’m a self-proclaimed Christmas fanatic, I have to admit I really enjoy Thanksgiving. It has a way of putting things into perspective, encouraging us to take stock of our lives and recognize the many blessings we so often overlook. But here’s something funny, and I suspect I’m not alone in this: I feel like I know far more about how Thanksgiving started in America (though I’ll never quite understand sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows!) than I do about its roots here in Canada. So, here’s a little knowledge to chew on with your turkey and stuffing. Canadian Thanksgiving was first formally declared a national holiday in 1879, though its date shifted several times before. In 1957, Parliament fixed it to the second Monday in October, a nod to Canada’s earlier harvest season. Long before European settlers arrived, Indigenous peoples held ceremonies to give

thanks for the bounty of the land and to honour the Earth’s abundance during the fall. The first European-recorded Thanksgiving in North America was held by English explorer Martin Frobisher in Newfoundland, celebrating his safe return from a perilous voyage to find the Northwest Passage. From 1921 to 1931, Thanksgiving was even celebrated on the same day as Armistice Day (now Remembrance Day) in November. One significant difference between our Thanksgiving and our neighbours’ is that ours tends to be a little quieter, a little more about time with loved ones, though I’ll give the Americans full credit for football! Oh, and I should also add that I’m thankful for living in a world with Google. Not only did I fact-check my Thanksgiving history there, but I also use it at least twenty times a day to satisfy my curiosity about random things: Who is that? How did that start? Why do we do certain traditions? Google always has my back. So, from me to you, I wish you and your families a wonderful Thanksgiving. May you count your many reasons to be thankful, and may the year ahead bring you countless more.

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The Village’s Debuting Harvest Hunt by Peri Hayes Rachael Lake of Lake House Books delightedly discusses The Village Harvest Hunt, debuting this month: “In early summer, we started a group called ‘The Village People’ which consists of approximately 15 to 20 people, both business owners and community members. The main vision of this group is to offer events and bring people to the village during the off-season. The ideas and energy of community members are appreciated, as many hands make light work.” Accompanying this scavenger hunt will be live music during the day, located in a variety of outdoor spaces throughout Port Stanley. “I think the movement of the music is great, because this goes along with our goal of celebrating the entire village,” Rachael voices. Port Stanley will be dressed in seasonal décor for transforming the village into a magical, autumnal place to be. “We are also hoping to install some lights,” Rachael shares. With over 20 businesses participating, this Scavenger Hunt will offer participants clues for discovering which establishment is next on their quest. Teams will complete challenges and collect stamps, with a Hunt Raffle prize of a $500.00 gift basket. Christine Rudman, member of The Village People, assures, “Take your time. There is no advantage to completing quickly, so participants are encouraged to explore and enjoy our charming village at their own pace!” Participating businesses will have the opportunity to present a seasonal beverage or treat for sale, and there will also be complimentary apple cider served at the The Port Stanley Visitor Centre. With teams of up to four members, flexibility is offered to families or groups slightly surpassing this number. Rachael further highlights that this scavenger hunt is geared toward adults and families. For safety purposes, children must be accompanied by an adult at this event. To embark on this journey, teams will receive a canvas bag containing their materials for the day from the Art Emporium on Main Street. Moreover, volunteers will be stationed at the The Port Stanley Visitor Centre, gathering stamp earnings upon completion. As well, those who shop at any of the local businesses throughout the day will accumulate merchant points. Be sure to deliver your receipt(s) to the The Port Stanley Visitor Centre for a chance to win the Explorer Raffle, entailing a $500.00 gift basket. “I love scavenger hunts,” Rachael expresses with joy. “The clues are exciting to me, as is getting people out on a fall day. Gathering a team and putting your minds together – there is certainly a lot of fun to be had! We are very grateful to the Port Stanley BIA, as well

as Domus Developments and the IDA Pharmacy for sponsoring this event. Everyone is really excited for a new event in Port Stanley!” With over 40 teams scheduled to partake in this anticipated event, please note that registration has officially closed -- though remaining inquiries can be directed to the lovely Bea Peraza of the Art Emporium at 226-658-1888.

Port Stanley Villager October 2025 cover

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TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Don’t miss out on an unforgettable night of talent and entertainment! Get your tickets now, with all proceeds supporting Hospice of Elgin. Last year’s show was a sellout, so be sure to grab yours early! Join us for St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent on Saturday, November 1st, 6:30 pm at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre. Tickets are $20 and available at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre.

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Councillor’s Corner by Councillor Michael Graham Port Stanley’s “200 Trees for 200 Years” Nears Milestone as Students Return to Help Complete First Stage Port Stanley is buzzing with anticipation as the community prepares to complete the first stage of plantings in the ambitious “200 Trees for 200 Years” project. Initiated to commemorate the Village’s bicentennial, the project aims to plant the remaining trees from the 200 trees previously approved by council, at the Berm to celebrate Port Stanley’s history and invest in its future. With students now back in school, excitement is growing. The Kettle Creek Public School was instrumental in launching the initiative, with students helping to plant the first trees and learning hands-on about environmental stewardship. Their

return marks a pivotal moment, as they will once again help lead the effort to complete the next wave of plantings. “The kids really drove this from the start,” said one local organizer. “It’s not just about trees — it’s about legacy, learning, and love for this community.” Thanks to a grant from Trees Canada, the funding is in place — but there’s an urgency to act. The grant must be fully used by October 31, 2025, putting pressure on staff and coordinators to finish planting the remaining trees in the next few weeks. Fortunately, the soil is prepped and ready for delivery to the Berm, thanks to a summer of behind-the-scenes work by volunteers. As the next phase begins, the project continues to bring people of all ages together, reminding the village that while trees grow slowly, community spirit can flourish in an instant.

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Counter Intelligence: Smart Choices for Every Style When it comes to refreshing a kitchen or bathroom, replacing countertops is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make. Countertops not only serve a practical function but also set the tone for the style and feel of the space. With a wide range of materials available, homeowners can find options that blend durability, beauty, and value. Granite remains a classic choice for its natural elegance and long-lasting quality. Each slab of granite is unique, adding character and sophistication to a room. Its durability makes it resistant to scratches and heat, making it a perfect fit for busy kitchens. In bathrooms, granite provides a polished look that elevates the space into a spa-like retreat. Quartz is another popular option that combines natural stone with resins to create a surface that is both beautiful and practical. It offers the luxurious appearance of stone but with consistent patterns and colours. Quartz is non-porous, which means it resists staining and doesn’t require sealing, making it especially attractive for households that want low- maintenance elegance. Marble is prized for its timeless beauty and veining that creates a truly luxurious aesthetic. Often associated with high-end kitchens and bathrooms, marble adds a bright and airy feel to any room. It stays naturally cool, which is a bonus for avid bakers who enjoy working with pastry. Butcher block countertops bring warmth and charm with their natural wood finish. They add a welcoming, organic touch to kitchens, complementing both modern and rustic styles. Butcher

block also provides a forgiving surface that can be sanded and refinished, allowing it to maintain its beauty for years. Laminate has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to new designs and finishes that mimic stone, wood, or even concrete. It’s a budget-friendly option that allows homeowners to achieve a stylish look without the cost of natural materials. Laminate surfaces are smooth, easy to clean, and available in an endless variety of patterns and colours. Concrete countertops offer a sleek, modern aesthetic with the flexibility to be customized in shape, texture, and colour. Their contemporary edge makes them especially appealing for homeowners looking for a unique, tailored look. Replacing countertops is an investment that transforms kitchens and bathrooms alike. Each material offers its own set of benefits, ensuring that you can find a surface that reflects your style while enhancing the functionality of your space. Been Looking for a Heat Pump or Generator? NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY Huge Rebates on Heat Pumps ON NOW!

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Renovating Made Easier with TRY Recycling in Elgin by the Try Recycling Team There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a renovation. Whether it’s finally saying goodbye to that outdated kitchen, adding space for a growing family, or refreshing a backyard, renovations breathe new life into our homes. But alongside the excitement often comes the chaos—dust, debris, and piles of waste that need to be dealt with before you can enjoy the results. That’s where TRY Recycling makes all the difference. Since 1991, TRY has been a leader in turning renovation waste into opportunity, helping homeowners and contractors keep projects running smoothly while diverting thousands of tonnes of material away from landfill each year. “Renovations are about building something new,” says Jim Graham, CEO and Owner of TRY Recycling. “Our role is to make sure what gets torn down doesn’t go to waste. We take the materials people don’t want anymore and give them a new purpose.” From drywall and flooring to old concrete, asphalt shingles, and yard debris, TRY Recycling handles the messy side of renovations with ease. Instead of tossing everything into a landfill, TRY sorts and processes materials so they can be reused in practical ways. Concrete, for example, is crushed into gravel for construction projects, while organic yard waste becomes nutrient-rich compost. For Elgin area residents, the convenience is as important as the environmental impact. Smaller do-it-yourself jobs can be handled with a quick drop-off at one of TRY’s locations. For bigger renovations, TRY offers bin rentals delivered right to your driveway or job site.

“A bin on-site makes a huge difference,” Graham explains. “You fill it as you go, and when you’re done, we take it away. It saves people time, money, and a lot of stress.” Beyond convenience, TRY Recycling is helping shape a greener community. By reusing and recycling as much as possible, they’re ensuring that Elgin’s renovation boom doesn’t come at the expense of the environment. “We’ve always believed that recycling isn’t just about bottles and cans,” Graham adds. “It’s about rethinking how we handle all kinds of waste, including what comes out of a renovation. Our city deserves that forward-thinking approach.” So, whether you’re tearing down a deck, gutting a bathroom, or giving your home a full makeover, TRY Recycling offers you a responsible, hassle-free way to handle the aftermath. Renovating your home is about the future—make sure your waste gets one too.

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Why Your Next HVAC Upgrade Should Be a Heat Pump A home’s heating and cooling system is one of its most essential components, keeping the indoors comfortable throughout the changing seasons. In recent years, more homeowners have been turning to heat pumps as part of their HVAC system, recognizing both the efficiency and versatility these units can provide. Unlike traditional furnaces or air conditioners that specialize in either heating or cooling, a heat pump does both. In the summer, it works like a central air conditioner, pulling warm air from inside the home and releasing it outdoors. In the winter, the system reverses, drawing heat energy from outside air and transferring it indoors, even when the temperature feels cold. This ability to shift between heating and cooling makes a heat pump an all- in-one solution that can simplify your home’s comfort system. One of the most significant benefits of a heat pump is energy efficiency. Because it transfers heat rather than generating it, a heat pump can deliver up to three times more heating energy than the electricity it consumes. For homeowners, that translates to lower energy bills and less reliance on fossil fuels. In fact, when paired with a high-efficiency natural gas or propane furnace in what’s known as a dual-fuel system, a heat pump can automatically switch to the most cost-effective option depending on outdoor temperatures. This is one of the primary reasons the government has been offering numerous incentives for Canadians to consider a Heat Pump for their homes. With Canada aiming for greater energy efficiency and a smaller carbon footprint, adding a heat pump to your HVAC system

is a forward-looking choice that supports both household and environmental sustainability. Beyond efficiency, heat pumps also provide consistent comfort. Modern units are designed with variable speed motors and advanced controls, which means fewer temperature swings and quieter operation compared to older heating and cooling equipment. Many homeowners notice that their home feels less drafty and maintains a more even temperature year-round after installing a heat pump. Finally, investing in a heat pump can add value to your home. Energy-conscious buyers are increasingly looking for properties with efficient, eco-friendly HVAC systems already in place. With utility costs continuing to rise, a home equipped with a heat pump can stand out on the market as both practical and modern. Whether you’re upgrading your HVAC system or looking for ways to reduce energy use, a heat pump offers a reliable, efficient, and environmentally responsible solution. It’s an investment that pays off in year-round comfort, savings, and peace of mind.

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LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE

Maksym Nechytailo by Peri Hayes “Art unites people,” Maksym Nechytailo expresses. “I was the Designer and Artist of the 2025 Piano Peace Project by the Elgin County Ukrainian Community in St. Thomas. The Piano project clearly demonstrated how about 20 people of different ages and professions worked together to create a wonderful art object that was able to attract a lot of attention for the support of peace in Ukraine, which is so important for everyone now -- it is amazing!” Maksym relocated to Canada with his family following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Several of his paintings and sculptures are in private collections, along with works displayed across Canada and Ukraine. In addition to Maksym’s extensive experience as a portrait artist, he has explored abstract acrylic art and digital art, oil painting and watercolour urban landscapes throughout his career. Furthermore, he creates wooden and metal sculptures, as well as works in art restoration and furniture design. Moreover, Maksym earned his qualification to teach children in an art school, about which he voices, “As an art teacher, I have studied many different techniques. My favourite ones are watercolour, acrylic and oil -- all for different reasons: watercolour for its airy transparency and easy mixing of colour pigments; acrylic for the ability to quickly create multi-layered masterpieces of any size; and oil because it allows me to draw any creative ideas as I want without compromise.”

“I prefer to work on my paintings and teach art classes during the daytime in my studio.” As Maksym humbly reflects, “It was a very important moment for me when I was able to open my private art studio in Kyiv, Ukraine. It was amazing to find so much support in the Port Stanley community that allowed me to

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While expressing his gratitude for local support, Maksym offers, “I am very happy that many paintings were sold, and I took part in exhibitions and projects in Port Stanley and St. Thomas. Now, I am working on a series of large canvases conveying the bright and exciting emotions of sailing regattas and water environments. They will be part of the Association of Port Stanley Artists’ show at the Port Stanley Legion on October 18th and 19th.” This event is being celebrated from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm each day. Maksym’s horizon includes another show; the Association of Port Stanley Artists’ (APSA) ART SQUARED, for which all paintings must be square in shape. This exhibition will be located at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT), having begun last month and operating until December. Presently, Maksym’s art is available at Port Stanley Dentistry, PSFT and The Art and Soul Café. To connect with this local artist, kindly email maximboxmaxim@gmail.com or phone 647-539-5451. Those interested are also welcome to visit the Maksym Nechytailo Facebook page for further information.

start my art classes in Canada. I met a lot of wonderful people here, and I am very proud of it. Thanks to many people who believed in me, I was able to open my private art studio in St. Thomas and can continue my career as an art teacher. The beautiful moments of my life and other people’s lives inspire me. I want my paintings and art classes to share bright and positive emotions with others.”

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LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE

Shawn De Neire by Peri Hayes Lakeside village-based artist, Shawn De Neire, introduces his creative roots: “As a child, my love for Disney, Hanna-Barbera and Popeye drew me toward animation. Knowing how to draw was a prerequisite to enter that field. I have no formal training and have been blessed with ‘God given talent’, as some say.” Shawn’s media of choice are acrylic on canvas, watercolour on canvas and 140 lb cold press. Admittedly, there is no particular time of day during which he prefers to create. Referring to his work, Shawn positively highlights, “It just comes to me when it’s ready.” As demonstrated through Shawn’s work, this dedicated artist is deeply inspired by wildlife. His paintings reflect his love of animals and nature. Shawn shares, “My inspiration for painting wildlife comes from two things: my fur baby, Piper, and her unconditional love; the fact I am an emotional person. Animals are no different than humans. They have a soul, emotions and personality. I get all of that instantly through the paintbrush.” Shawn values each of his paintings, both small and large, voicing, “The same passion and emotion is painted on the canvas every time.” Shawn participated in the recent return of the Elgin County Studio Tour, an event held on September 27th and 28th in celebration of local artists. The weekend facilitated opportunities to explore the featured artists’ individualistic creative process in their respective studio space. Vocal about the significance of recognizing local art, Shawn earnestly offers, “Celebrating local art is so important for any community, especially in today’s society where it seems ‘they’ MEDIA GROUP 240 Wyecroft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 1 866 993-0600 drmg.com IRECT ESPONSE EDIA ROUP Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 00 drmg.com DIRECT RESPONSE AD SAVE

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Shawn’s artwork is available at his studio and gallery located in Un- ion. He delightedly announces, “Come spring, 2026, my artwork will be available in the Muskokas as well.” Connect with Shawn via email at galerieriverside@gmail.com or by phone at 519-520-0470 to in- quire about studio visits, available pieces and commission requests. As Shawn proudly concludes, “When people come into the studio / gallery and say, ‘I can feel the emotion’, I have accomplished what I set out for myself.”

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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 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 October 6th, 2025 Port Stanley Art Guild Accepting New Members Port Stanley United Church, 7 pm – 10 pm. 239 Colborne St, Port Stanley. 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 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 October 18th & Sunday October 19th, 2025 APSA Art Show and Sale Royal Canadian Legion, 10 am – 5 pm. 310 George St., Port Stanley. A variety of styles, mediums and subject matter from strictly local artists. Something for everyone. Free parking & admission. Monday October 20th, 2025 Open House Port Stanley Library, all day. Drop in at the Port Stanley Library to celebrate Ontario Public Library Week enjoy refreshments and check out your library! Wednesday October 22nd, 2025 Online Child Protection Presentation Port Stanley Arena and Community Centre, 7 pm. 332 Carlow Rd, Port Stanley. Presented by the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley, the Guest speaker is Dr. (h.c.) Charlene Doak-Gebauer who is a specialist in online protection. Thursday October 23rd, 2025 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. We will discuss The Broken Girls by Simone St James. Everybody welcome. Saturday October 25th, 2025 Halloween Bazaar Union United Church, 9 am – Noon. 6008 Stone Church Road, Union. Featuring: baking, preserves, meat pies, children pumpkin decorating, and vendors – jewelry, stained glass,

woodworking, sewing and more. Monday October 27th, 2025 Scrapbooking Port Stanley Library, 10 am –12 pm. Organize your photos. Cost: $10.

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.

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 • October 2025

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Port Stanley in the Fall: A Nature Lover’s Dream by Marna Berry Port Stanley is known for its summer beaches, but locals know the real magic happens in the fall. If you love nature, quiet charm, and a bit of history, this is your perfect getaway. Ditch the crowds

and embrace the cooler weather and vibrant colours. Here’s a rundown of our favourite nature and activity-based highlights. Ride on the Port Stanley Terminal Rail. The train is so cozy and fun! Catch one of the “Murder & Mystery on the Train” dinner trips, which are a blast — a perfect mix of scenic views and interactive entertainment: October 4, 18, 24, and 25. For families, they also have special Pumpkin Patch Trains where kids can pick their own pumpkin at the Whytes Park stop. It’s a fantastic way to see the autumn landscape, with the train chugging along through the colourful countryside: October 25 and 26. You haven’t really seen Port Stanley without getting out on the lake. Legends of Lake Erie Boat Tours offers the perfect way to experience the lake’s beauty from a different perspective. Even in the fall, the lake is stunning, and the Sunset Cruises are absolutely breathtaking. Enjoy a leisurely cruise that highlights the town’s history and natural beauty, take in the crisp autumn air and view the raptor migrations: Daily 9 am to 8 pm. Port Stanley has some incredible nature trails perfect for a fall hike. Spend an afternoon exploring the Harbourfront and Blue Flag beaches or the Whistlestop Trail, which follows the old railway line all the way to St. Thomas.

The magical migration of raptors at Hawk’s Cliff is a must-see, and October is prime viewing season. On a single day, you can see thousands of hawks, eagles, and other raptors riding the thermals and soaring by. Catch an educational demonstration day hosted by The Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO). This year’s event is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. It is fascinating! Learn how to identify different species and understand the science behind their incredible journey south. It’s an awe-inspiring spectacle to see so many magnificent birds in one place. Port Stanley in the fall is a hidden gem. It offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and engaging activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet escape, you’ll find something to love. So, next time you’re planning to visit, don’t just think summer—think Port Stanley in the fall!

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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • October 2025

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It’s Ladies Night, Oh What a Night On Friday, October 24th, Port Stanley is set to sparkle with laughter, music, and western flair, as the Port Stanley Optimist Club and the Port Stanley Lioness host their annual Ladies Night, with this year’s theme being Boots & Bubbly. The event, held at the Port Stanley Arena & Community Centre, promises a lively evening of dancing, raffles, and fun, all in support of Hospice of Elgin. “This will be our third year running the Ladies Night event together,” says Dorothy Cook of the Lioness. The night is designed exclusively for women to enjoy a fun evening out with friends. From western-inspired décor to themed snacks, the organizers have thought of everything. “We encourage everyone to dress up in their best country-and-western attire,” says Laura Gallagher of the Lioness. “We’ve got a line dance teacher coming in to give a lesson, so there will be plenty of chances to show off your boots.” Guests can look forward to Texas-style charcuterie boards, a s’mores dessert bar, door prizes, raffles, and a 50/50 draw. A cash bar, run by the Port Stanley Lions Club, will also be available. “It’s important to remind people this is a cash-only event,” adds Paula Miziolek of the Optimists. “Bring cash for tickets, the raffle, and the bar.” All proceeds from the evening will support Hospice of Elgin, an organization close to the hearts of both clubs. In past years, Ladies Night has raised between $10,000 and $12,000, with hopes to surpass that amount this year thanks to new sponsorship opportunities. “We’ve already had generous support from local businesses such as Westminster Mutual Insurance Company and IDA Highland Drugmart, Home Hardware Port Stanley,

A & M Sounds, and Debackere Farm Market, which means we’ll be able to give even more to hospice this year,” says Dorothy. For the organizers, the night is about more than just fundraising. “It’s such a joyful atmosphere,” says Laura. “The room is filled with women laughing, dancing, and enjoying themselves; it’s really special.” Paula agrees, adding, “It’s a chance for women to relax, connect with their friends, and support a cause that truly matters in our community.” Tickets are $40 each for this 19+ event, with group reservations available for six or more. Only 200 tickets are being sold, and the event typically sells out quickly, so Laura suggests you grab your tickets ASAP so you are not disappointed. To purchase tickets, contact Sharon Larmour at slarmour@rogers.com or call 519-782-4251.

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Port Stanley Villager • October 2025 • Page 15

Healing Through the Arts CALL FOR ARTISTS

Our gallery represents First Responders, Frontline Workers and Military Veterans artists. Visual Artists: This broad category includes painters, sculptors, photographers, printmakers, illustrators, and graphic designers. Literary Artists: Writers, poets, and playwrights create works of art through language. Craft Artists: Create functional and decorative objects, like pottery, jewelry, or textiles. Help Us Bring Healing Through Art by supporting the Veterans Art Gallery! Our veterans have given so much to protect our freedoms, but many return home facing invisible battles. 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. 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. You Can Help by providing ongoing support to our veterans. We need donations to help cover costs like: Facility lease renovations and utilities, Art Supplies for workshops and therapy sessions, Marketing & Outreach to bring in community members and connect veterans with resources, Artist Support so we can showcase more veteran artwork and support artists in the community .

211 Main Street, Port Stanley, Ontario • 519-200-1616 Supported by

Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • May 2025

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