Port Stanley Villager October 2024 Issue 62
Letter from the Editor
of the work, let me know, and let’s see if we can start a new Port Stanley tradition. Back in September, in conjunction with the Port Stanley Villagers Association, we launched a new page within the Port Stanley Villager where we bring you a free community calendar. We wanted to create one place where people could learn about different events around the community. The page will be available both within the PSV and on the PSVA website. If you are interested in contributing an event to the calendar, email me at hometown@villagerpublications.com with the event’s name, date, time, location and a brief description; we will do our best to include them all in the upcoming calendar. Speaking of upcoming events, November is around the corner, which means so are Christmas Bazaars. If you and your organization are having a Bazaar or local holiday market in November or December, please send me the information, and I will include it in our Bazaar listings in our November issue. In this issue, Olivia Healey, resident chef at Pepper Tree Spice Co., has given us a Thanksgiving recipe to try. I know that this Thanksgiving, I am thankful for the health of my friends and family. I am also thankful to be Canadian and to live within such an amazing community. I wish you and yours a very Happy and Safe Thanksgiving! See you in November.
I know I am in the minority, but in Port Stanley, I prefer the fall to summer. The mood is a little slower, the space is a little less crowded, and the community is just so pretty! But now that summer is gone, it is once again time for the community
to rally around and support its local businesses. I recently had a conversation with a local business owner who observed how slow things had already gotten just after Labour Day. Of course, this is not unusual for Port Stanley. But does it have to be the case? I want to suggest and frankly rally some support for a few more events to attract more attention to Port in the slower months. CALIPSO and Dickens Days are amazing, showcasing our community so well. Why can’t we have more like those two events? I am not ashamed to admit that I have been known to watch a Hallmark movie or two, or twenty in my day; I think, given the correct set of volunteers, we could bring to Port Stanley a Pumpkin Festival, a Harvest Festival, or a Harvest Moon Festival, etc. Think about it: a local dance, some warming stations, cider/hot chocolate on tap, hayrides, pumpkin carving, etc. An event that pulls the whole community together. It doesn’t have to stop at a fall festival; we could have our own version of Carnival, a winter festival with or without snow. Of course, events like these require organizers, volunteers, and sponsors to help plan, organize, and run. If you agree and are willing to put in some
Fun for the whole family!
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Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
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200 Trees Bicentennial Project Update by Peri Hayes Allen Slater has been dedicated to the 200 Trees Bicentennial Project for 16 months and counting. He collaborates with an incredible team of volunteers, in partnership with staff and students from Kettle Creek Public School, Central Elgin’s Council and Staff and the Port Stanley Village Association. In addition to their music fundraiser which was recently celebrated at the Port Stanley Legion, exciting updates regarding the 200 Trees Bicentennial. Project entail: $140,000.00 of the $200,000.00 required having been raised. “This clearly demonstrates the widespread and generous support, and the intense interest of our community,” Allen enthuses. Moreover, their landscape architect, Ron Koudys, submitted detailed plans to Central Elgin and the 200 Trees Bicentennial Project team. Ron estimates that 117 truckloads of soil will be required to create the mounds or berms above the capped, contaminated ground to plant the trees and shrubs. Allen offers, “Fortunately, Wastell Homes has agreed to provide the soil, which is being quality tested. We are also in discussion with Wastell about the trucking of the soil.” “For this amount of soil,” Allen continues, “And for the trucking and General Contracting work, the estimated cost is between $90,000.00 to $100,000.00.” The cost of trees and shrubs,
testing the soil, health and safety requirements and more are also being accounted for. Further, there are a number of essential location and safety features -- for example, the soil must be tested to Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks’ standards: “Central Elgin staff are also involved to ensure we fulfill all requirements.” In the meantime, Allen is pleased to report, “The trees and shrubs that the students planted in spring are growing well, and will become the core of the new naturalized area on the berm. One student expressed how special it will be to see a new forested area when they are older.” Approved by the Municipal Council, the 200 Trees Bicentennial Project is well underway for October to November planting. Allen expresses, “Thank you again to the students and staff at Kettle Creek Public School, staff and Council at Central Elgin and to everyone who has provided support, contributed and donated thus far.” Those interested in contributing to this sustainable cause can place tax-deductible donations at: escf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1450, (Elgin St. Thomas Community Foundation), or utilize the QR code below. Allen concludes, “This is an exciting project, which will enhance the environmental and recreational aspects of our community.” Visit the psva.ca website, or contact Chair, Nancy Moore, at nancy@psva.ca for further information. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to 200 Trees bicentennial project on the berm in Port Stanley. We have raised over $130,000 (over 65%) of the $200,000
August 21st, Volunteers for 200 Trees for 200 Years gathered at the Port Stanley Foodland to receive a $8000 donation from owner Rob Burns.
For more information and a list of dono please go to psva.ca Front Row: Left to right. Cynthia Petts, Rob Burns (Foodland), Hannah Kish, Kinsley Baitz, Lily Anderson. Back Row. left to right. David Harvey, Murray Bevan, Allen Slater, Katey Berzins, Cadence Baitz, Nancy Moore (200 Trees Cte Chair)
Help us raise th $70,000 remain your tax deducti donation at
https://escf.fcsui com/erp/donate fund?funit_id=14 OR use the QR Code above.
St.• Suite 125 • St. Thomas • ON 6 • office@simplicity-cremation.ca MPLICITY-CREMATION.CA
A Christmas Carol Join us during the Dickens’ Day weekend in Port Stanley for a wonderful yuletide experience for the whole fam ily! by Charles Dickens adapted by Liz Gilroy Saturday November 23, 1pm & 7pm
A STAGED READING OF
Christmas Carol ~A~
ey Villager • September 2024
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On Christmas Eve Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits, who take him on a journey into his past , present and future to show him the errors of his ways.
PortStanleyFestival FestivalTheatre Reserve Tickets 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca Adult, children and family group tickets available.
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 3
Hasselback Beets Looking to impress your family and guests this Thanksgiving without overspending? Try Chef Olivia’s Hasselback Beets – an elegant and budget-friendly side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any dinner gathering! Ingredients: • 12 small to medium red and yellow beets, scrubbed • ¼ cup (60 ml) olive oil • kosher salt and black pepper, to taste Brown butter sage sauce:
• 1 stick salted butter • 14 leaves fresh sage • freshly cracked black pepper to taste • 1/2 lemon • Parmesan cheese Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375° F (190°C).
2. Peel beets and trim root and stem ends to create a flat surface so they will not roll around when roasting. Slice each beet crosswise at 1/8-in (0.25 cm) intervals, cutting to within 1/4-in (0.5 cm) of the bottom, taking care not to cut all the way through. Place flat-side down in a baking tray or cast iron dish, drizzle olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Cover the baking dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and roast for 30 minutes; remove the aluminum foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until easily pierced with a knife. 3. Cut the butter into large pieces and add it to a light-coloured pan over medium heat. 4. As soon as the butter starts to foam up, add the sage leaves, (make sure they are dry) and cook together for 3 to 5 minutes.
5. The butter will foam up and start turning brown. Do not touch it, and do not stir. 6. The moment the foam subsides remove from heat. The sage should be crispy by now. Hit it with a squeeze of lemon juice. 7. To serve, transfer warm beets to a serving platter. Drizzle with brown butter sage sauce and top with freshly grated Parmesan.
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Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
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Dallas Posthumus would like to welcome Greg Galbraith to the RE/MAX Centre City Realty – Port Stanley Office. Greg is a knowledgeable sales representative who has been involved in real estate for over 40 years. Residing here in the village, Greg has a pulse on the local real estate market. If you are thinking of buying or selling, give Greg a call .
Dallas Posthumus
Greg Galbraith
RE/MAX Centre City Realty Brokerage 218 Colonel Bostwick St Port Stanley, ON 519 643 8361
Councillor’s Corner by Michelle Graham With the end of a great Port summer this time of year brings about mixed feelings -- and the start of fall celebrations! PS200 is looking forward to a ‘Who Wore It Best’ PS200 T-shirt contest, so be sure to get your T-shirt at Uncommon Blooms, 782 Taphouse or the IDA Pharmacy. Additionally, there will be a chili cook-off, the planting of the 200 trees in October/November 2024 and a winter market. Visit the PS200 website or Facebook page for more details to come! Look for the two utility box wraps around town commemorating PS200 with old and new photos. Some of our local businesses will be commemorated. Council will review our forthcoming staff report and other municipalities’ Airbnb regulations to ensure suitable MCE bylaws are in place for the 2025 season.
The PSVA is facilitating a Port Stanley Community Investment Survey, so please join the PSVA and visit their website (www.psva.ca) to help guide the future development of Port Stanley. Council wants your input! We strive to emphasize the importance of fostering an environment where leadership supports and enables the community rather than exerting control. Although this article comes out October 1, 2024, I want to acknowledge that September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours survivors of residential schools and the children who never returned home as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
RE-ELECT BOOK YOUR COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH AND TOUR TODAY
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 5
Balance Trends with Timeless Designs by Kim Ariesen, Owner, Studio Style Ladies Apparel Fall is here! And this means sweaters, cardigans, jackets, jeans and coats! Autumn 2024 is a season of balance in trends and timeless designs. With this season already in motion, Fall forward with fabulous knitwear, sweaters and cardigans as these items are the perfect companions for crisp autumn days and cozy evenings. Incorporating knitwear items into your wardrobe gives you that effortlessly chic yet casual Fall style, especially paired with jeans and boots. Cardigans and jackets are also quintessential Fall items that offer great layering choices for either daytime outings or for evening activities. Sweaters add the element of comfort and warmth that makes Fall dressing my favourite time of the year in fashion. Their versatile nature makes knitwear the right choice -- practical and stylish. This is why knitwear items are such beloved pieces showcasing many looks and designs, and offering great fabric choices, colour combinations and unique textures. Every Fall, designers are coming up with new creations giving us more exciting products with interesting features and styling that keeps us wanting more! Top Knitwear Styles: Cotton sweaters Natural fabrics and a fantastic alternative to wool sweaters with their breathability quality of comfort, ease and softness. Chunky knits Providing a bold textural statement including the classic cable knit sweater.
Cowl neck or soft neck sweaters Perfect designs for a cozy look. The return of turtle necks Offering a sleek timeless design.
ST. THOMAS SENIORS GOT TALENT 2
Presented by Nurse Next Door
TICKETS GO ON SALE OCTOBER 1st. 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 2nd, at 6:30 PM at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre. Tickets are $20 and available at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre or by calling 519-495-7177.
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Page 6 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
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and as always, with denim and black. Design groups in- cluding the Color Institute, Pantone, have a large array of colour choices on their list for Fall 2024. Embracing the warmth of earth tones of ivory, sandy taupes and beiges, to rich caramel shades add an air of sophistication to your wardrobe. Grey is the other neutral family of colour, whether it’s light heathered grey or charcoal tones, grey transcends time and provides easy wearability. Red and
Oversized sweaters More of a trendy relaxed vibe. Underpinning sweaters Ideal for under cardigans or jackets in either a crew neck or V-neck. Cropped cardigans Creating balance with higher fitting pants or jeans. Long cardigans Adding length and elegance to any outfit. Knit jackets and coatigans Offer a casual look with style and comfort. Knitwear coats Chic styling for everyday events. Colour is the most important element of each season and this Fall brings a bountiful display of choice! The colour selections are vast, with neutrals to pastel shades, to saturated colours
magenta pinks are playful, adding richness with their vibrancy, making a strong statement. Blueberry blue, French blues and shades of denim from vintage to dark hues are complimentary colours to the warm tan and cinnamon tones. This combination makes a striking contrast that is noticeable! Spice tones mixed with grey also make a sublime pairing and can be referenced back to 80’s classic styling. Blush pink and sage green are two softer shades that are featured this Fall season. These subtle hues offer a fresh palette for the autumn, an unexpected twist, but create an understated elegance that’s both modern and timeless. Fall is a beautiful time of the year with the changing of colours, coolness in the air and sweater weather days. Warm up in your sweater or cardigan and jeans… enjoying what the season has to offer and perhaps, drinking a pumpkin spice latte. lol! Create and curate your own style and wardrobe with the many exciting knitwear choices and colours! Have fun this Fall season!
OPEN Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 5pm 215 Main Street Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca
FUNERAL, CELEBRATION, AND CREMATION SERVICES 31 Elgin St. | St. Thomas 519-631-0570 shawnjacksonfuneralhome.com
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 7
Port Stanley Community Calendar Recurring Events Pre-School Storytime Port Stanley Library, every Tuesday at 10:00 am. (Starting September 10th). 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 Port Stanley Library, every Monday, from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Starting September 9th. 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, contact niawithg@gmail.com
Thursday October 24th, 2024 Adult Book Club Port Stanley Library, 6 pm. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley We will discuss, Do Not Say We Have Nothing by Madeleine Thiene. Everybody welcome. Saturday October 26th, 2024 Author Talk with Joan Clayton Port Stanley Library, 11 am. 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley Clayton will discuss her book, read an excerpt, and answer your questions. Monday October 28th, 2024 Come to Extendicare wearing your costume. We will sing some songs, make a craft, and have a treat. 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. Kids Club at Extendicare Extendicare, 6 pm – 7pm, 4551 East Rd, Port Stanley.
Monday October 7th, 2024 Card Making Port Stanley Library, 1 pm - 3 pm 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. Create two handmade cards with Jean. Cost: $10 Please pre-register. Port Stanley Art Guild Accepting New Members Port Stanley United Church, 7 pm 239 Colborne St, Port Stanley. Wanting to connect with our art community? Check out our website for details and contact us for more info. www.portstanleyartguild.com Thursday October 17th, 2024 Artist Meet Up Port Stanley Library, 1 pm – 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 October 21st, 2024 Scrapbooking Port Stanley Library, 10 am – 12 pm 302 Bridge St, Port Stanley. Organize your photos. Cost: $6 Please pre-register.
Port Stanley Villager
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Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
A Port Stanley Ghost Stroll, 2025! by Peri Hayes After celebrating the success of her latest production in July of this year, Dr. Joan Clayton is thrilled to be planning a seasonal project for October of next year -- A Port Stanley Ghost Stroll. Joan purchased the Mitchell House in the lakeside village two years ago, since joining the Heritage Society through which she participated in the Heritage Port Stanley Tour in June. Heritage Port Stanley’s informative brochure, which details the tour, is available at portstanleyheritage.com/tour.pdf -- with more to explore at the portstanleyheritage.com/open25.htm website. Joan’s contribution involved writing the script for the Russell House presentation, in addition to being stationed at the Telegraph House during the immersive event. Sharing captivating stories by the harbour sparked Joan’s thought: “Wouldn’t it be fun to do a ghost tour?” Joan anticipates debuting this event during the week of Halloween 2025 -- perhaps featuring actors dressed in character, as well as haunting music presented live. Moreover, A Port Stanley Ghost Stroll will be free to the public, with a tentative date of October 21st from 6:00 pm until 9:00 pm. During the family-friendly hour of 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, there will be an opportunity for children to collect candy and celebrate the spirit of Halloween. “I like to gather people in different art forms,” Joan voices. This Ghost Stroll will bring the community together in a walk stretching from the Art Emporium on Main Street to Bridge Streetnear Lake House Books and Port Stanley Festival Theatre. In preparation for next October, Joan, the historical
storyteller, is presently collecting enthralling tales in preparation for next October -- inviting local ghost stories to be brought forward for an opportunity to be included in the Ghost Stroll script which she will prepare. “I’d like to keep it personal to Port Stanley,” Joan encourages. Furthermore, she is grateful for those who have already begun offering stories and is looking forward to incorporating narratives —inspired by true events — which lend space for mythologizing. “Some people see, some feel and some don’t believe in spirits at all. I have stories come through me. When I put myself into a story, it’s like a channel opens.” Joan is eager to further her engagement within the community and to forge meaningful connections with local entrepreneurs, warmly inviting, “Who would like to be on board?”. To connect with Joan, email dr.jpclayton@rogers.com or call 519-673-4091.
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 9
Prepping Your Fireplace and Wood Stove for a Safe Fall Season As fall settles in and the desire for a cozy fire grows, it’s crucial to ensure your fireplace or wood stove is safe for use. Proper maintenance and safety checks can prevent hazards and keep your home warm and secure through the colder months. Here’s how to prepare your fireplace or wood stove for the season. Schedule a Professional Inspection Start by arranging a professional inspection of your fireplace or wood stove. A certified technician will assess for creosote buildup, chimney cracks, and blockages. Creosote, a by- product of burning wood, is highly flammable and can lead to chimney fires if not cleaned regularly. An inspection will also identify structural issues, helping prevent future problems.
Clean the Chimney Even if your chimney looks clean, it must be swept at least once a year, preferably before you start using it for the season. A professional chimney sweep will remove soot, ash, and obstructions like bird nests. This maintenance prevents dangerous creosote buildup and ensures proper ventilation, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Check for Proper Ventilation Ensure all vents and flues are open and functioning correctly. Blocked or malfunctioning vents can cause smoke and harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, to enter your home. Proper ventilation is crucial for fireplaces and wood stoves to ensure smoke and gases are safely expelled. Inspect the Firebox Examine the firebox where the fire burns, for any cracks or damage. Over time, the high heat can cause wear and tear, leading to potential hazards. Ensure the firebox is in good condition, and repair or replace any damaged bricks or mortar to maintain safety. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Before using your fireplace or wood stove, test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work properly. These detectors are vital for your safety, alerting you to fire or carbon monoxide risks. Replace batteries if needed and consider upgrading to newer models for better protection. Store Firewood Safely Store firewood at least 30 feet away from your home to reduce fire risk. Keep it off the ground to prevent moisture buildup and insect infestations. Proper storage ensures the wood remains dry and usable while minimizing the chance of pests entering your home.
WHEN THE LEAVES LOOK LIKE THIS
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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
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Q&A with Jim Graham, Owner/CEO, TRY Recycling Q: Tell us a little bit about TRY Recycling. Jim: “TRY Recycling has been servicing London and surrounding areas for over 30 years. A leader in the recycling industry; continuously looking at innovative ways to improve the environmental impact within our communities and for future generations to come. Our drop-off facilities give customers an easy and envi- ronmentally friendly way to get rid of their waste material without sending it to a local landfill”. Q: Where is TRY Recycling Located? Jim: “We have two convenient London locations that are easily accessible for Londoners and surrounding communities. Our London North location is at 21463 Clarke Rd and our London South location is at 3544 Dingman Drive”. Q: What are some of the things you are most proud of with TRY Recycling? Jim: “I’m proud that over the past 30 years, we’ve made a positive impact in the environment and in our community, and continue to innovate with our recycling services. In one Fall season, we recycle enough leaves to fill two Budweiser Garden hockey rinks”! “Many people may not know this, but local landfills are filling up at rapid rates and at TRY Recycling we divert 80-85% of waste material from going into local landfill”. Q: How does the TRY Recycling drop-off process work? Jim: “We have a simple three-step drop-off process and provide a one-on-one customer service experience you won’t
find anywhere else. When you arrive at one of our drop-off facilities, head straight to our weighing station. Weighing your vehicle is the first step in determining the cost of your material drop-off. After you’ve weighed in, TRY Recycling staff will direct you to one of our designated dumping areas where you offload your waste material. Once your material is off-loaded, we weigh your vehicle again and determine the cost of your drop-off based on the difference from your initial weigh-in and the type of material”. Q: With the Fall Yard Clean up Season here, what are some things people should know about TRY Recycling? Jim: “We accept and recycle a wide range of materials at our London North and London South recycling facilities, including residential waste, construction and renovation debris and yard waste. Our promise to our community is simple. . .You drop it off. We’ll take care of the rest”.
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 11
Smoke Detectors Save Lives! Fire Prevention Week, running from October 6th to 12th, is an essential time to raise awareness about home fire safety. This year’s theme, ‘Smoke alarms: Make them work for you! ™’, focuses on the importance of having functional smoke alarms in every home. The campaign emphasizes three crucial actions: INSTALL, TEST, and REPLACE. Understanding the importance of these steps can make all the difference in a fire emergency. Smoke alarms are a critical first line of defence against home fires. Today’s homes burn faster than ever, giving you as little as two minutes — or even less — to safely escape once a fire starts. This narrow window of time makes it vital that your smoke alarms are in optimal working condition and strategically placed. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom, outside of sleeping areas (such as hallways), and on every level of your home, including the basement.
When choosing a smoke alarm, make sure it is listed with Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC), which ensures it meets the necessary safety standards. For enhanced protection, consider using combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that are interconnected throughout the home. These alarms can be installed by a qualified electrician so that when one alarm sounds, all alarms in the home are triggered. This feature ensures that you will hear the alarm no matter where the fire starts. Regular testing of your smoke alarms is just as important as installing them. Testing ensures that the alarms are functioning correctly and that their batteries are still good. It’s recommended to test your alarms once a month by pressing the test button. If your alarms are battery-operated, replace the batteries every six months when the time changes or whenever the low-battery warning sounds. Additionally, smoke alarms should be replaced every ten years, even if they still appear to be working. Whether at home, at the cottage, or in a trailer, fire prevention is something everyone should prioritize. A well-thought-out escape plan is crucial for ensuring your family’s safety. Ensure that every household member knows the plan and practices it regularly. Remember, children, older adults, and people with disabilities may need assistance to wake up and get out in case of a fire. Assign someone to help them in your plan. By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest fire prevention best practices, you can ensure that your smoke alarms will genuinely work for you in an emergency. Don’t wait until it’s too late — take action now to protect your home and loved ones.
Port Stanley Villager
Geoffrey Rae, Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177
All articles written by Geoffrey Rae unless otherwise indicated. Writer – Peri Hayes • Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher – Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications.All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproducedor used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions .
Be sure to check your smoke and CO alarms expiry date and change the batteries! Ray Ormerod Director of Fire Rescue Services/Fire Chief (519) 631- 4860 Ext. 249 r ormerod@centralelgin.org
Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
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A Celebration of Autumn by Marna Berry, CEO, Travel Green
Port Stanley’s outdoor offerings are complemented by the remarkable Hawk Cliff, a renowned spot for hawk watching. The cliff is a stage for a spectacular display of raptor migration, drawing enthusiasts from all over. The sight of these majestic birds, along with the occasional flutter of Monarch butterflies and dragonflies, is a testament to the area’s significance as a wildlife corridor. Discover the magic of migration and associated array of activities this October at Hawk Cliff, a collaborative effort managed by Central Elgin Township, The Hawk Cliff Foundation, and the St Thomas Field Naturalists, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature’s wonders. Adding an adventurous twist to the outdoor experience are the Legends of Lake Erie boat tours. These excursions not only showcase the beauty of the lake and its surroundings but offer a unique vista for the magical migrations of raptures on the lake. In embracing the fall season, Port Stanley invites visitors to immerse themselves in its natural wonders, cultural heritage, and community spirit. Whether it’s through leisurely strolls, engaging in conservation activities, or simply enjoying the panoramic views, the town offers a plethora of ways to connect with nature and celebrate the season of change.
As the vibrant tapestry of fall unfolds, Port Stanley emerges as a picturesque haven, inviting all to bask in its autumnal glory. The season paints the town and its surrounding landscapes in brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts
to explore the natural beauty through hiking, biking and boating adventures. The crisp air and the rustling of leaves underfoot promise an invigorating connection with nature, making every excursion a memorable one. Autumn in Port Stanley is not just about the changing leaves; it’s a celebration of harvest with local farms opening their gates for pumpkin patches and apple picking. These quintessential fall activities offer families and visitors a taste of rural charm and the bounty of the season, all while surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the countryside in full autumnal bloom. For wildlife aficionados, the area becomes a bustling hub of biodiversity. Nature reserves and conservation areas provide sanctuary to a variety of species, making it an ideal time for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. The migration season brings an array of birds to the region, offering a unique opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat. The importance of conservation efforts becomes ever more apparent as one delves into the rich ecosystem of Port Stanley and its environs.
Port Stanley Villager October 2024 cover Taking the grandkids apple picking at Great Lakes Farms. Photo by Geoff Rae
Street Fairs Farm Tours & Much More
ATV Poker Run Beer Garden Live Music
visit rootsrevival.ca
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Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 13
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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • October 2024
Port Matters by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail.com What a hummer of a summer just passed! While teachers and students returned to scheduled life, others of us enjoyed the peace of waning summer all September. To my surprise and delight, I recently saw an American
a local level: Karen Vecchio, our Elgin Middlesex London (EML) MP has declined to seek re-election next term. What’s that got to do with Port? We know good governance can’t be left to chance and we’ve got a lot going on in these parts! Electing the right representative for EML matters to our interests. It’s a right and equally a responsibility, and it’s important that we can trust the integrity of the process. The shadows cast by merchants of doubt commend to us that it’s well worth the time to understand the process. It’s also said that St. Thomas is critical to winning EML. That may be heresy but it’s hearsay! Port Stanley Festival Theatre’s Summer 2024 program filled the bill all-round. Kudos for PSFT in the Spotlight on FB! September featured Simon Joynes Playwrights’ Festival 2024 in its 13th year! See psft.ca for a big fall lineup. The ROWDYMEN are back on October 25! A stage reading of A Christmas Carol is November 23 during Dicken’s Days! Tickets go on sale in October! The PSVA has launched the Port Stanley Community Investment Survey at the request of CE Council! Through an anonymous online survey or via local service groups, the BIA, and the Legion, the goal is to identify three priorities for investment according to residents. A second anonymous survey weighs the themes by vote-in to ensure that the final investment priorities accurately reflect the results, with statistically valid data. Come out to the Legion on October 24 for the Results Presentation on executing short-term, medium-term and long-term investment priorities. Kudos to all those involved. Let’s continue to build a thriving and prosperous Port Stanley! When we practice our best future, we create it.
magazine, Lake Erie Living , promoting the shoreline by region and entertainment categories. But the best ‘hot spot’ in Elgin County was St. Thomas? The only mention of Port Stanley was courtesy of an ad placed by local realtor, Susan E. Tanton; well done! Perhaps Elgin Tourism needs to know what else Port Stanley offers! And the bandshell plays on… over $14,000 was raised at the Kettle Creek Golf & CC due to the extraordinary efforts of co- ordinators and volunteers who attended each hole with a bevy of beverages. Cheers to The Fire Hall Market, Riva, and the Port Stanley Terminal Rail for their support, and to the many local businesses in Port who provided sponsorship on each hole, and golf carts! Ed Finlan, Chair of the PS Bandshell Committee, has received encouraging endorsements from Bayfield to Leamington on the economic and cultural effect of a bandshell with more news to come on designs! Further to fundraising, kudos to The Hydrant at The FHM for raising in a day over $10K for STEGH! It’s early days but the federal election looms large in our future whether on or before October 27, 2025. It’s about to get vocal at
519.631.1460 EXT. 193 elgincounty.ca/museum St. Thomas Golf and Country Club, Union, c. 1929. Courtesy of the Elgin County Archives.
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com
Port Stanley Villager • October 2024 • Page 15
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