Port Stanley Villager Jan-Feb 2025 Issue 65
Letter from the Editor As the calendar flips to another year, the topic of New Year’s resolutions is unavoidable. While I’ve never been one to write a detailed list of goals — because, let’s face it, I’d lose it by mid-January anyway — I do find myself reflecting on what I’d like to improve. This year, I do resolve to hit the gym a bit more often. I meant to last year, but after two injuries, the
idea of working out lost its appeal faster than leftover fruitcake in February. Fingers crossed for a healthier, more active 2025 — and maybe a little less clumsiness on my part. Speaking of resolutions, the Port Stanley Bandshell Committee has come up with a fantastic one of their own — a talent show! Elgin Has Talent will be a fundraiser slated for April 2025 (date and venue to be confirmed soon) and promises to showcase some incredible local talent while supporting a worthy cause. Applications will be available on the committee’s Facebook page and via email starting in January, giving everyone plenty of time to dust off their dancing shoes, tune their guitars, or perfect their comedic timing. If you’ve got a knack for entertaining, this is your moment to shine. I, for one, can’t wait to see what hidden gems our community has to offer! Port Stanley itself continues to buzz with activity and growth. This issue features articles on the Port Stanley Brewing Co., which is sure to add even more flavour to our charming lakeside town. There’s also exciting news about the new Extendicare Facility that will soon be under construction, promising to bring state-of- the-art care to the area. For art enthusiasts, a new gallery is now
open, dedicated to showcasing work dealing with PTSD and other health challenges by veterans and first responders. And let’s not forget the ongoing success of the 200 Trees project, which is steadily transforming the Berm and making Port Stanley an even greener and more vibrant community. It’s truly heartening to see so much progress and creativity flourishing around us. On page four, you’ll find the Port Stanley Community Calendar—a free resource to promote your upcoming charitable or free events! There’s also space for regular events happening in and around Port Stanley, Union, and Sparta. To have your event featured in a future calendar, email hometown@villagerpublications.com with the event name, date, time, location, and a description of up to 20 words. As we head into 2025, let’s celebrate the possibilities of a fresh start and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. May your year be filled with joy, good health, and the kind of laughter that makes your sides hurt (in a good way). Happy New Year to all our readers and here’s to making it a great one!
Calling all knitters
Together we can bring the warmth of the season to our fellow people!
The weather is starting to turn, and it is cold outside. Please knit some extra mittens, hats, scarves, blankets, sweaters etc. for those in need. There are many places and people who could use them. If you would like me to pick up your knitting, give me a call at 519-495-7177 or email geoff@villagerpublications. com and I’ll be happy to arrange a pickup. W e are working with Simply Pure Water, so if you would prefer to drop off knitting drop it off with Chris, Jame and the team!
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Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025
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Canadian Family Health Counselling by Peri Hayes Kim Sargent is Clinical Director of Canadian Family Health Counselling, with Kristy Suckling representing their Port Stanley clinic. Kim passionately introduces, “We know more about the brain now. What you think about affects your physiology.” Through the Neural Network Therapy provided at Canadian Family Health Counselling, a series of exercises is offered as a means to create healthy, structural development to the brain. Using a Lite-Brite, Etch a Sketch and more, these unique tools are utilized for educating others about the brain in a “clever way”, as described by Kim. “People are recognizing the importance of personal growth, and are looking into options for their mental health. These are tools for creating changes to habits in bite-sized ways; a positive pathway for the brain to get out of these sticky places and arrive to feel-good places.” Their service is offered to a vast age range. Moreover, Canadian Family Health Counselling facilitates opportunities for teachers to meet their requirements while supporting mental health, such as growing gardens on school grounds and incorporating nutrition into their curricula. Kim, who has been in practice for 27 years and counting, is appreciative of the Postgraduate Studies Program in operation since 1999 which connected her with Kristy. The esteemed Owner and Operator of Yellow Brick Pottery, Kristy, has a background in mental health nursing and physical well-being. “She is a great fit for the business. She has this spunk and energy,” Kim beams. While their Head Office is stationed in Peterborough and services are provided globally, their Port Stanley office is located at 6781 Union Road. Kristy presently offers virtual sessions as she rotates between Australia and Canada. “I was drawn to counselling by a desire to help people navigate challenges and create meaningful change in their lives,” she thoughtfully expresses. “With over 20 years of experience in mental health, I’m inspired by how our neuroscience-based approaches, like Neural Network Therapy, empower clients to better understand themselves and take control of their mental health.” With gratitude, Kim details the dedicated efforts of her incredible team, “I really feel like we’re ready for the next step, so what do we do besides talking about how we feel? It requires remarkably small — but specific — amounts of information to make changes to the habits of how we think and feel. We’re ready, and I think that people are hungry for it. We don’t want to regress; we want to advance the cause and feel the difference. We teach about the connection between the emotions we experience and how
this creates a vibratory patterning in the body. You need to understand where to put your effort.” As Kim concludes, she encourages those interested to ask questions and conduct thorough research throughout one’s healing journey to discover the practitioner that is the most suitable fit. She also assures, “You don’t need to come back if we have done our job. This is a swifter process of weeks or months, as opposed to the idea of spending years in therapy.” Read about Canadian Family Health Counselling’s meaningful approach through the canadianfamilyhealth.ca website, and explore the canadianfamilyhealth.janeapp.com/ site to review their practitioners. To book directly with community member, Kristy, visit canadianfamilyhealth.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/43. Kristy Suckling, is your Canadian Family Health Counselling representative for Port Stanley and area.
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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025 • Page 3
Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events Pre-School Storytime (Restarting January 14th) Port Stanley Library, every Tuesday at 10:00 am. Join us for songs, stories, and a craft. Ages 0 – 5 and their caregiver. 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 (Restarting January 13th) Port Stanley Library, every Monday, from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Join us for a story, games, and a craft. Grades 1 and up, JK/ SK with a caregiver. Holistic Movement with Nia Union Sports and Community Centre, every Friday at 10 am. Enjoy dance, martial arts and relaxation techniques, Create two handmade cards with Jean. Cost: $10. Please pre-register. Note: No card making in February. Thursday, January 16th, 2025 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. 302 Bridge St., Port Stanley. We will discuss Library of Legends by Janie Chang. Everybody welcome. Artist Meet Up Port Stanley Library, 1 pm to 3 pm. 302 Bridge St., Port Stanley. Everyone will be working on their own projects. Bring your project and the materials that you need. Monday, January 20th 2025 Scrapbooking Port Stanley Library, 10 am to 12 pm. 302 Bridge St., Port Stanley. Organize your photos. Cost: $6 Monday, February 3rd, 2025 Port Stanley Art Guild Accepting New Members. Port Stanley United Church, 7 pm. 239 Colborne St, Port Stanley. contact niawithg@gmail.com. Monday January 6th, 2025 Card Making Port Stanley Library, 1 pm to 3 pm. 302 Bridge St., Port Stanley. Wanting to connect with our art community? Check out our website for details and contact us for more information at portstanleyartguild.com. Thursday, February 20th, 2025 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. We will discuss Before She Disappeared by Lisa Gardner. Everybody welcome.
Artist Meet Up Port Stanley Library, 1 pm to 3 pm.
302 Bridge St., Port Stanley. Everyone will be working on their own projects. Bring your project and the materials that you need. The Port Stanley Community Calendar is put together by the Port Stanley Villager Magazine and the Port Stanley Village Association. 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
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By collaborating with neighbouring municipalities, we saved money on new fire trucks through shared purchases and refurbished trucks, as exemplified by the City of Toronto’s successful model. This partnership model not only saves taxpayer money but also strengthens regional cooperation. I was proud to rally support for the previously denied 200 trees project, which will enhance our green spaces and improve the environment for future generations. Additionally, I supported the development of the bandshell project, which will offer a wonderful new venue for community events and performances. We have taken steps to create and envision increased outdoor recreation areas, enhancing community health and well-being. These spaces will provide opportunities for families and individuals to enjoy nature and stay active. Looking Ahead The next two years will be crucial as I continue to build on the work we’ve done so far. Some of the key items on my agenda include: • Expanding and improving local infrastructure • Increasing permanent and hygienic washroom facilities at all beach locations • Continuing to foster partnerships for better services at lower costs • Enhancing public spaces for community engagement • Exploring sustainable environmental initiatives – Kettle Creek clean up I am excited for the progress we will make together and remain committed to listening to your feedback and addressing the needs of our community. Thank you for your continued support as we work toward a brighter, stronger future for our municipality.
Councillor’s Corner: A Midterm Review: Reflecting on Progress and Looking Ahead by Councillor Michelle Graham As we enter the second half of this term on Council, I believe it’s important to pause and review the progress so far while also looking ahead at the goals for the coming years. Together, we have worked hard to improve our community, and I am proud of the following accomplishments: One of the most impactful achievements has been reinstating free parking in our downtown core and at the Visitor Centre. This was a priority for many of you, and after garnering support from fellow councillors, we were able to make this a reality — helping to drive local business and making our downtown more accessible. Working with staff and the Council, we implemented important speed control measures on Carlow and East Roads. These changes will help ensure the safety of our residents and visitors, especially in high-traffic areas. A more efficient and effective strategy for fall and winter walkways was devised, ensuring safe and accessible pathways for pedestrians during the colder months. I’ve remained committed to keeping taxes stable while ensuring that we manage our finances prudently. We have maintained no tax increases by implementing increased fiscal reviews and making responsible spending decisions. This is part of my long-term strategy for financial stability. We’ve been able to reduce capital spending by strategically timing construction projects during off-seasons. This not only saves money but also minimizes disruption to our community, and the savings are reinvested in other essential services.
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Celebrating 200 Years with 200 Trees in Port Stanley by Peri Hayes The 200 Trees Bicentennial Project is growing through the dedicated efforts of an incredible team of volunteers, in partnership with Central Elgin’s Council and staff, Kettle Creek Public School’s staff and students, the Port Stanley Village Association and more. Proud representatives, Allen Slater and Nancy Moore, express their gratitude for the donors, partners and beyond 135 contributors. Allen exclaims, “What an enormous community success already!” Through the widespread enthusiasm for this project, human hands have joined together to plant a Carolinian vegetation zone which celebrates community, recognizes the history of Port Stanley and strives to sustain the natural environment. Most recently, truckloads of soil were sculpted by Second Nature into nine mounds on the berm, followed by the planting of 60 sizable trees and the overlaying of mulch. Allen enthuses, “On November 29th, there was a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by over 150 people, including 27 students from the ECO Class of Kettle Creek Public School, the Mayor, Councillors and staff of Central Elgin, Superintendent of the Thames Valley School Board, the Principal and Teacher from Kettle Creek Public School, representatives from the hundreds of individual donors, businesses, grantors and supporters. There were smiles and even tears, and a real sense of accomplishment felt by all.” An anonymous participant eloquently declares, “I am so proud of this community, our partners and our Project Team for all the hard work that’s been put into seeing this project come to fruition. It’s been a real journey and we have learned so much about the history of Port Stanley, the berm, what it
takes to put trees on reclaimed land and so much more. I really can’t put into words the friendships and relationships that have been cultivated too, along with tree planting.” Students in the current Grade 7 and 8 ECO class at Kettle Creek Public School generously provided descriptions regarding their connective experience, as well as what they are looking forward to: “Watching the trees become more than just an idea has been truly fulfilling,” Aubree E. presents. “Being a part of something that not only helps our ecosystem, but also the wildlife around us, has been a blessing.” Meanwhile, Briar R. outlines, “There are quite a few things I’m looking forward to in the years to come. However, I am most excited to plant the trees. When I am an adult and I visit the berm, I will try to find the tree I planted,
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to see kids and animals playing in the trees.” All submissions from this class have been immensely appreciated. Next on their agenda, these students eagerly anticipate the planting of shrubs and trees this spring. Those interested in contributing to this sustainable cause are welcome to place graciously accepted and tax-deductible donations at the Elgin St. Thomas Community Foundation: escf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1450. Visit the psva.ca website for further information, or contact Project Chair, Nancy, at nancy@psva.ca. Allen and Nancy enthusiastically conclude, “Thank you everyone for celebrating 200 years of Ports Stanley in such an important environmental and recreational achievement.”
and think back to all the work put into this forest and the Grand Opening Ceremony we held.” Brady T. details, “I am looking forward to being in the forest, knowing that I was part of creating it.” Furthermore, Harlee V. offers, “The one thing I am looking forward to is people going to look at our trees in 20 years and seeing how hard we worked to get to this stage of the Tree Project; seeing people’s smiles when they see the trees, and
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Construction Underway for Extendicare’s New 128-Bed Facility Construction has officially begun on Extendicare’s new 128- bed long-term care home in Port Stanley, marking a significant step forward in addressing the need for senior care in the region. The project, supported by the Ontario government’s Construction Funding Subsidy (CFS) top-up, is part of a larger provincial initiative to build 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds across Ontario. This state-of-the-art facility is set to welcome its first residents in early 2027 and will feature a modern, community-oriented design. The building will house four 32-bed Resident Home Areas (RHAs), each thoughtfully designed to provide intimate and familiar living spaces for residents. These RHAs will include dining and activity areas, lounges, and bedrooms, creating a home-like atmosphere while ensuring comfort and safety. This transformative Initiative for Port Stanley will bring 68 new and 60 redeveloped long-term care beds to the community. On November 29th, there was a groundbreaking ceremony and press conference. Natalia Kusendova-Bashta, Ontario’s Minister of Long-Term Care, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “Today marks a significant milestone for Port Stanley. When construction is complete, 128 residents will have a safe and modern place to call home. Our government is fixing long- term care by building capacity where Ontarians need it most.” Local representatives, including MPP Rob Flack, echoed this sentiment. “This is a great day for Port Stanley,” Flack remarked. “Our government is committed to accelerating the construction of long-term care homes, ensuring that our community’s seniors receive the care and support they deserve.”
The two-storey building will offer much more than living quarters; it will aim to be a community-oriented facility. Visitors will have access to a guest lounge, private dining spaces, and a country kitchen to spend quality time with loved ones. The second floor will feature a hair salon, a chapel, and a physiotherapy support area, enhancing residents’ well-being and daily living experience. Extendicare resident, Allen Legg, shared his optimism during the press conference. Allen, who celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary at the current Extendicare facility, highlighted the thoughtful design of the new home: “When we first heard about the new home, we were concerned it might feel less personal because of its size. But with four separate 32-bed sections,
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Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025
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JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP The Construction Funding Subsidy top-up, introduced in 2022, has been critical in enabling projects like Extendicare Port Stanley. This innovative funding approach provides up to $35 per bed per day for 25 years, helping facilities overcome financial barriers, especially during times of inflation and high interest rates. Dr. Michael Guerriere, President and CEO of Extendicare, acknowledged the collaboration that made this redevelopment possible. “Our rebuild of Extendicare Port Stanley will improve the quality of life for current residents and increase access to care for seniors in the region. This new build would not be possible without the extraordinary support of the Government of Ontario and the municipality of Port Stanley.” The project has received widespread support from local leaders and community members. Central Elgin Mayor, Andrew Sloan, highlighted the importance of this development. “COVID made us realize we have new needs and challenges. Solutions like this one are vital, and I’m committed to ensuring this project moves forward in a timely manner. It’s not just a Building -- it’s an investment in our community’s future.” Karen Vecchio, MP for Elgin-London-Middlesex, reflected on the facility’s potential to support seniors who have helped build the local community. “It is wonderful to know that more seniors will be able to live with dignity in the community they helped shape,” she said. The Extendicare Port Stanley redevelopment represents more than just a new facility; it embodies hope, progress, and a commitment to improving the lives of seniors. As the first shovels break ground, the community can look forward to a brighter future for its seniors — a place where they can receive compassionate care in a modern, welcoming environment. With the anticipated opening in 2027, the facility is set to be a cornerstone of care in Port Stanley, ensuring that seniors live with dignity, comfort, and the highest quality of care. JAN FEB MAR
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Healing Through Creativity The transformative power of art takes centre stage with the opening of The Veterans Art Gallery, a space dedicated to showcasing and supporting veterans, first responders, and emergency service workers. Founded as The Veterans Art Initiative in 2022 by proud service veteran, James Agesen, the program finally found a home at 211 Main Street, offering a gallery and workshop space. “It took a few years, but we’re here,” says James, reflecting on the gallery’s milestone. For James, Port Stanley was an ideal choice: “It’s an artsy, beautiful place that attracts people year- round. We’re not in competition with anyone because our artists are veterans and first responders. It helps them with their PTSD.” The gallery serves as both a showcase and a sanctuary. Veterans and first responders are provided with a platform to share their art and stories, contributing to their healing process. “When you serve your country, you end up with a mental illness, a physical injury, or both,” James explains. “That’s just part of the price of serving your country.” For him and many others, art has become a profound therapy. After getting sober in 2022, James discovered painting as a way to cope with his own PTSD. “I found that it helped me — just to get out of my head for 15 minutes, two hours, five hours, whatever it is.” The gallery’s 1,000-square-foot space will also feature a workshop area where veterans and first responders can learn, create, and grow as artists. Weekly painting classes will be offered, with professional artist, Steve Tracy, known for his Olympic-themed works, lending his expertise. The initiative’s impact extends far beyond creativity. “We help with addiction, peer support, and even filling out paperwork for Thank you to our many volunteers and
benefits,” says James. “When you finish your tour and come home, you’re overwhelmed. Sometimes, something as small as a missing cover letter can deny someone the support they need. That’s where we step in.” The program has helped individuals rebuild their lives, from street-level struggles to earning income through their art. Seventy-five percent of sales from artwork return directly to the artists, while the remaining 25 percent is reinvested into the program, ensuring continued growth. “We want to support the community and the heroes who have served it,” says James. Partnering with organizations like the Veterans Wellness Alliance, The Veterans Art Gallery is more than just a space — it provides hope, healing, and connection. “This is about helping people recover,” James concludes. “Art gives them purpose, and that purpose saves lives.” READY TO GET HEALTHY IN 2025? We Will Do it Together! JOIN OUR NEW PROGRAM You will receive: RECIPES EXERCISE WELLNESS CHECKINS HEALTH HUDDLES
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Patios and Pints in Port It has been a long time coming, but the wait is finally over. The Port Stanley Brewing Company is ready to bring craft beer enthusiasts a unique experience. Led by Brewmaster Ian McClure, this microbrewery aims to combine tradition, quality, and community in every pint. Ian’s journey to becoming a brewmaster was far from conventional. “I originally went to school in Guelph for zoology, thinking I wanted to be a vet,” he shares. After realizing veterinary science wasn’t his calling, Ian turned his interest in growing hops into a passion for brewing. He honed his craft through Niagara College’s brewing program and gained invaluable experience at Equals Brewing Company in London and at Paris Beer Company in Paris, Ontario. Both roles offered Ian unique perspectives on brewing, from large- scale production to smaller, more community-focused operations. Now, he brings that wealth of experience to Port Stanley, a town he believes is the perfect setting for a microbrewery. “Port Stanley gets a ton of visitors in the summer,” Ian explained. “We’re planning to do most of our business on-site — serving on tap at our patio, taproom and through our retail store.” The brewery aims to provide a variety of beers, ranging from light, easy-drinking summer brews to richer, darker ales for the colder months.
Ian emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients and craftsmanship. “My favourite beers to make are almost traditional styles, made with really good ingredients,” he says. The focus will remain on local sales for now, with no immediate plans to distribute through the LCBO. While the brewery is currently producing beer for Riva Italian Restaurant in Port Stanley, its own taproom, retail space, and patio are slated to open by spring, 2025. Ian is eager to see the community embrace the space. “I’m excited to share my beer with the town and see that patio full of people enjoying the view,” he says. With its prime waterfront location at 191 Carlow Rd. right next to the harbour and a dedication to quality, the Port Stanley Brewing Company is poised to become a local favourite. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy the town’s charm, this microbrewery will offer something special for everyone.
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Winter Wellness Reset: Nurturing Your Mind and Body After the Holidays by Melissa Bishop
Rest and Replenish Prioritizing rest is key to recovering from holiday burnout. Create an evening ritual that signals your body it’s time to wind down. Adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender or chamomile to a warm bath can soothe tired muscles and calm the mind. Alternatively, diffuse these oils in your bedroom for a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere that promotes restful sleep. Restoring your energy helps you face the season with resilience and positivity. Move with Intention Winter is a wonderful time to embrace gentle movement. Whether you’re walking along the beach or stretching at home, mindful movement enhances circulation, eases stiffness, and lifts your spirits. Port Stanley is blessed with a vibrant wellness community, offering classes in yoga, Qi Gong, Nia, Pilates, and Tai Chi, many of which are held at our fantastic Community Centre. Joining a class not only supports your physical health but also fosters connection with others — a key component of wellness. Embrace Mindfulness Anchor your mind amidst winter’s slower pace with mindfulness practices. Start small by journaling three things you’re grateful for each evening or setting aside five minutes to focus on your breath. Listening to your body is an essential part of mindfulness — by going within, you can begin to understand what your body truly needs, whether it’s rest, nourishment, movement, or stillness. These moments of reflection foster clarity and joy as you navigate the new year. A winter wellness reset doesn’t require an overhaul — just small, intentional changes that nourish your body, mind, and spirit. Start with kindness and watch how your energy and balance grow.
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 Holiday treats often leave us depleted of essential nutrients. Focus on meals that are both comforting and revitalizing. Warm soups loaded with greens, lentils, and root vegetables provide fibre, vitamins, and minerals to support digestion and immunity. Include fermented foods like kimchi or plant-based kefir to replenish gut health. Supplements can also help fill nutritional gaps: vitamin D for the darker months; magnesium for relaxation, and a quality probiotic for gut balance. These small changes nurture your body from the inside out, boosting energy and mental clarity. The holidays can leave us feeling like we’ve run a mara- thon — overindulged, overtired, and perhaps, overwhelmed by the pace of it all. As January arrives, the excitement has waned, the days are short, and energy levels are low. It’s easy to feel sluggish and disconnected. This is why a gentle winter wellness reset can be the perfect antidote, helping you restore balance and vitality as you step into a fresh year. Reconnect with Nourishment
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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025
Winter Travel Wonders Your Guide to Embracing
5. Stay Flexible and Open to Adventure Winter travel can come with its share of surprises, from unexpected weather to last-minute changes. Keep a flexible mindset and embrace the unexpected. Sometimes, the most memorable moments come from the unplanned detours. So, dear Port Stanley residents, as you ponder your winter escape, remember that the world is a beautiful place, waiting to be explored. Whether you’re bundling up for a snowy adventure or packing your sunscreen for a beach getaway, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey. After all, travel is not just about the places we visit but the experiences we collect and the memories we create. Stay warm, stay adventurous, and let’s make this winter one for the books!
the Season! by Marna Berry
Hello, Port Stanley friends and fellow adventurers! As your local travel agent and a passionate advocate for exploring the beauty of our world, I’m here to
sprinkle a little magic on your winter travel plans. Whether you’re dreaming of a snowy escape or a warm retreat, I’ve got tips, tricks, and a dash of inspiration to make your winter journey unforgettable. 1. Embrace the Season Where You Are First off, let’s not overlook the charm of our own backyard! Port Stanley is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored. From brisk walks along our frosty shores and skating at local rinks, to cozy evenings in our quaint local eateries, there’s a world of winter joy right here. And for those days when the travel bug really bites, consider a short road trip to nearby winter festivals. It’s all about seeing the familiar through new, frost-glazed glasses. 2. Seek the Sun or Snow—But Plan Smart Craving sunshine? Or maybe you’re a snow-seeker, looking for the perfect slope? Whatever your preference, early planning is your best friend. For sun worshippers, destinations like Costa Rica or the Caribbean offer lush landscapes and warm beaches, perfect for escaping the chill. Snow enthusiasts consider a jaunt to the Canadian Rockies or the Alps for world-class skiing and snowboarding. Remember, booking early often means better deals and more choices! 3. Pack Like a Pro Packing for winter travel can be tricky, but it’s all about layers. For warm destinations, pack light clothing with a few layers for cooler evenings. Heading into the snow? Thermal wear, waterproof outer layers, and quality boots are must-haves. And let’s not forget about travel insurance—because peace of mind is the best travel companion. 4. Embrace Local Traditions Wherever you go, dive into the local winter traditions. From sipping hot cocoa in a mountain lodge to dancing at a beach fiesta, these experiences enrich your journey and create lasting memories. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to support local communities and immerse yourself in the culture.
Port Stanley Villager January-February 2025 cover Once again, 291 Selbourne Drive in Port Stanley has lit up the night for a good cause! Photo by Geoff Rae
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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025 • Page 13
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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025
Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com December 2024 in Port will be remembered! FUNdraising for cau- ses made civic-minded citizens of us all. Congrats to the BIA for a Dickens’ Days schedule of family fun from carollers to horse-drawn
Taylor and Raymie Jewell (this year with a posse of volunteers) lit up 291 Selbourne Drive for the 15th consecutive year to donate to date over $125,000 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation SWO! The NYE dinner dance at the Kettle Creek Country Club raised funds for the Bandshell Committee. Legion volunteers packed scores of Christmas Care packages and toys from Kettle Creek Swans for local families. PS Home Hardware sponsored a family’s Christmas and collected gifts for Smiles for Seniors, non-perishables, and warm clothing. Our Geoff Rae coordinated the 8th annual Calling All Knitters campaign providing warmth where needed. Donors for PS Community Cupboard included The Red Show ($1,360); PS Community Choir’s Christmas concert ($1,350); Doug Tarry Homes ($1,000); The Legion’s Christmas Cornhole Party ($700); Dallas Posthumus of REMAX sponsored free skating Dec 27-30 requesting non-perishables; PS Foodland collected food and donations; Clifton Parker Farms donated dozens of bags of potatoes; Michael and Lisa Fairweather of Drift contributed $177 selling hot dogs; Elaine Morash donated food through her yoga classes; and Kettle Creek Public School Student Voice collected over 1,000 food items! Anonymous donors provided turkey dinners for Community Cupboard patrons if they wished. Port continues to honour its long tradition of true grit people doing good. To make a difference for those going through difficult times in a place we call heaven on earth, let’s keep carrying on! When we practice our best future, we create it.
carriages to getting toasty roasting marshmallows; and together with PS Lions & Lioness Club, kudos for collecting oodles of food and $179 for PS Community Cupboard! An impromptu invite to join David Russell, his Husky, Siku, with my friend, Liam Meyers, made for a fun-filled float! Thanks to Becky Bryce, Sandra Andrews, and Susan Monroe for shelling out the treats! Viewing the parade from the inside out was magical! We hooted ‘Merry Christmas’ while Siku howled to throngs strung along streets and around corners steeped in holiday spirit. Cheers to co- chairs Dave Marr, Joe Konecny, and the Lion’s Club! Meanwhile, the 11th Annual Red Show showcased a stunning display by local artists celebrating ‘Red’ at the Windjammer. Kudos to Kim Saunders and her superb staff, the artists, and curator-coordinator, Elizabeth Kusinski. What a wonder-filled night! Bravo to all! (To view the artworks until mid-February, Sunday Brunch reservations are recommended.) The 12th Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Holly Hop was chilly but cheering while John Milles thrilled the crowd at the Legion as expected! Port’s Christmas Eve Jingle Bells tradition heralded in a most Holy Night, and signalled Port’s warm welcome to Santa once again! Our Tracy Burns passed on November 30, 2024. Part- owner of PS Foodland with her husband, Rob, Tracy was an active and beloved community member. As importantly, she was a devoted mother and grandmother and will be deeply missed by her loved ones. Our heartfelt condolences to Rob, their children, and their families. World news reports that greed for power exceeds concern for those in need, and compassion is out of fashion. What’s that got to do with Port? By all accounts, that’s not us: Dennis
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Port Stanley Villager • Jan-Feb 2025 • Page 15
NOW OPEN Veterans Art Initiative is a cooperative art gallery involving a group of artists coming together to contribute to the costs and responsibilities of running a gallery. Our gallery shows will use a rotational schedule, where artists will get a chance once every few months or years to show their creations. Our gallery represents artists involved in the “Veterans Art Initiative,” which started in November of 2022, by its founder (Local Artist James Agesen). We ask that you please support the Veterans Art Gallery which is designed for people who have served this country as Emergency Workers and in the Military. Providing recovery through the arts for those who suffer from PTSD or other wounds. 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. 211 Main Street, Port Stanley, Ontario
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