Port Stanley Villager July:August 2022

Port Stanley Villager July:August 2022

Port Stanley Villager July-August 2022 • Issue 41

Letter from the Editor There are few places in Canada that come as alive in the summer as Port Stanley. It is not hard to see why -- there are few places around as scenic! The joys of being able to sit by the Port Stanley Festival Theatre and watch not only the workboats but also the amazing pleasure craft heading in and out all day are unmatched. Speaking of the PSFT, if you have not taken the opportunity to buy your tickets for this years line-up of shows, run, don’t walk

Come and Live in Port Stanley, July 29 - August 1, 2022 Fireworks Sunday July 31 by Domus Celebrating Local Pirate Entertainer Entertainment Prizes Volleyball Tournament Exhibitors shingles in our fair town. On the east side of the bridge, we have Fleurs Fraiche, a new florist looking to brighten your day with some beautiful flowers. On the west side of the bridge is a new store for those of us who have a sweet tooth, The Candy Gram! Another great tradition returns to our fair shores -- CALIPSO Festival, enticing everyone to come live in Port Stanley and enjoy the fun year-round! Also included in this issue is a new event called Colours on the Beach, a great new initiative meant to bring inclusion to our community and have a ton of fun while doing it! When a community stands together it can accomplish almost anything. Saying that, I am still in awe that on the 4th of June, organizers and the community that rallied around them and their cause were able to raise $12,000 to help a family from the Ukraine get established here in the community. Finally, I want to thank all of you who stopped to talk with me at the St. Thomas Home Show, back in June. I truly appreciate all the kind words and support, and I am glad to hear there are so many of you out there who are enjoying this magazine. This issue is our summer issue, meant for both July and August. This gives me and my team (Peter Bloch-Hansen, our amazing copy editor, and Cathy Wood, our talented designer) an opportunity to take some time for ourselves and our families and stretch our legs a little. I hope you enjoy this issue, and I look forward to seeing you at the tremendous events around town, and with our new issue in September! Geoff

and get your tickets to the final four shows of the season! We have some exciting stories for you in this issue. First, we celebrate the accomplishments of some amazing local businesses that are marking some milestones, including The Storehouse which will be transferring hands to new ownership with Barb retiring at the end of July. We also wish a hearty congratulations to Anything Used & Sparta County Candles who are celebrating a milestone anniversary this year! Finally, we share the story of Wildflowers Farm, and all the amazing products and activities they offer. While we celebrate the established, we love the opportunity to introduce you to two more new businesses that have hung their

Boat Parade Sand Castle Building Contest Boat Rides Music Bicycle Decorating Contest 1812 History Re-enactments

Celebrating Local Pirate Entertainer Entertainment

ROYAL CANADI AN LEG ION BRANCH 410 Come and Live in Port Stanley, ON July 29 - August 1, 2022 Fireworks Sunday July 31 by Domus Come and Live in Port Stanley, ON July 29 - August 1, 2022 Fireworks Sunday July 31 by Domus PICKEREL TROUT SMELT PERCH PICKEREL TROUT

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Barb Kunz Christine Stinson Bill Fehr D & L Juicery The Edible Journey

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Barb Kunz Christine Stinson Bill Fehr D & L Juicery The Edible Journey

Barb Kunz Christine Stinson Bill Fehr D & L Juicery The Edible Journey

To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022

Good Times Grow at Wildflowers Farm Tucked away in Central Elgin is one of the County’s gems -- Wildflowers Farm. Owners, Chuck and Jane Magri have turned this majestic piece of land into a hotbed of activities, shopping and entertainment! From when they first launched the idea that is Wildflowers Farm, what it has blossomed into today shows the imagination of both Jane and Chuck. “Our idyllic little farm has had rustic charm right from the beginning,” says Jane. “Over the years, we’ve built on that charm, added some polish, nurtured the life around us and put our dreams into action. There is more of everything here now, from plant life, beehives, event spaces and buildings, to new botanical product lines, events and experiences for our community. There is so much more we will do and we’re excited about every step forward we take.” During the pandemic, Chuck and Jane realized there was an opportunity to have an open-air farmers’ market on Friday nights. “Visitors to our Friday night farmers’ markets can expect a welcoming, open-air event on our beautiful little piece of Elgin County,” says Chuck. “Our wonderful artisanal vendors, fresh bounty from our amazing area farmers, the sweet music from our super-talented local musicians and delicacies from our food vendors, really fill out the warm experience at our farmers’ markets. It’s a casual and fun evening for friends and family alike. There’s so much to see -- local craft beers and farm-made botanicals to drink, and our farm store is full of products with ingredients straight from our soil.”

Fair in October,” says Jane. Wildflowers is always an exciting place; make sure to check out their social media pages for even more events! “We also have our own line of teas, botanical infused vodkas, and a whole range of other botanical items,” says Jane. “I am a registered medical herbalist and all the products we sell and ingredients we use have come from my roots in herbalism. You can even have some fun by trying our wildly creative botanical cocktails which we serve at every farmers’ market. We also value support and collaboration with local musicians. Everything on the music side started from Chuck being in bands himself.” If you have not experienced Wildflowers Farm, I would encourage you to stop in and see all the exciting opportunities it offers. “Visitors seem drawn to the serenity of the farm and the natural surroundings. Many people have also developed a better awareness of their own personal health and are intrigued by our botanical products,” says Chuck. “On the lighter side, it’s simply wholesome family fun. We love what we do here, and it seems to resonate with those looking for genuine life experiences.” Wildflowers Farm is located at 42338 Fruit Ridge Line.

In addition to the weddings and events Wildflowers hosts, Jane and Chuck also have some great events planned. “We are having a Blooms & Brews craft beer fest in July, Island Vibes night in August, Taco Fest in September and we close out the season with a County

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022 • Page 3

Minding the Storehouse When someone spends years building a successful business, one of the hardest things to do is successfully to hand off that business. Barb Booth, owner and creator of The Storehouse is satisfied that she has found the right successor and as of July 31st, she will be handing the keys over to the new owner, Joanna Dale. Why is Barb moving on? “There were several factors, really. First, my husband retired. Being an entrepreneur, you’re here all the time. He’s home now with time to spend and I’m just unavailable. So that was one of the factors. Second, it’s just time for me to kind of look after me. I’ve been here doing this for 14 years, kind of on my own, and even through COVID we were open the entire time, helping people through it. I found that was it was good, but it was challenging. I felt like that was kind of the final straw, just trying to rally from that one.” But just as important as it was for Barb to step away, she wanted to make sure she left her clients in the best possible hands. “I was really looking for somebody who not only had a background or a passion in natural health, but also had that compassionate piece, that caring for people. People come in because they can get individual, tailored care.” Let us introduce you to Joanna Dale, a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and a former Registered Massage Therapist, who has been a Port resident for the past decade. “This is just a passion of mine as I have always shopped in health food stores, and I have a background in it.” So, to Joanna, this was being brave enough to take an opportunity coming at the right place and right time! “This is where we live. I have always worked outside of Port Stanley, so when this opportunity came up, something just sparked. Barb has all these people whom she’s helped over the years, who really love her. So, I’m nervous for her to leave, but I’m excited because Port Stanley’s growing

519-631-1333 • 6804 Sunset Drive Beside the Masonic Centre and Shaw's As customers have been learning about the transition, Joanna says the most common question she is asked is if things are going to change. “They’re mortified that the store is going to be leaving. We’re not changing the name; the store is staying.” Joanna assures us that other than a fresh coat of paint, The Storehouse you know and love will still be open for you! Barb adds, “I believe the heart of the store is staying too. It is just that the baton is being passed to a younger person with a bit more energy.” The Storehouse is located at 211 Main St., Unit #2, Port Stanley. and I’m excited to carry this tradition on for our community. I feel like everybody needs one of these little health food stores. I’m excited to bring knowledge to people on natural health. I think we need to start looking at them a little bit more and I think people are more conscious of it.” Barb says the key to her success is the ability to build connection with clients, and she is entirely confident that Joanna will be able maintain that level of assistance with them. “When you’re this small, you can build a connection with your network, unlike with a big store where you’re just going in and finding inventory, grabbing things off the shelf. This is not that. This is where we can really direct you to the products that are going to work best for you and your family.”

20% OFF ALL OUTDOOR DECOR

In Store Only

Fragrance of the Month is Sunburst All wax Sunburst products are 20% OFF Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles 46361 Sparta Line, Sparta, Ontario www.spartacandles.com Starting in July check out our new instore TUESDAY SPECIALS at www.spartacandles.com So much more than candles! Offers Valid July 1st-31st, 2022 In Store Only

To advertise here, please contact [email protected] London Location: 519-652-9920 Wonderland Rd S & Wharncliffe www.wonderlandministorage.com Moving Supplies, Climate, Non-Climate and Outdoor Storage www.stthomasselfstorage.com

Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022

Port Stanley Real Estate by Greg Galbraith, CENTURY 21

183 MEEK STREET PORT STANLEY FOR SALE – ASKING $774,900

S ummer has finally arrived. My favorite time of the year. The Beaches are busy and the tourists are keeping the town bustling. Some of these visitors will decide to put down roots in Port Stanley, and they will start looking for their special place in our village... I love boating, and that inspired me to build my Riverfront home on Warren Street a few years ago. My dream

was to have my own dock with a boat in my backyard with a view of the creek. Port Stanley has a dream for everyone looking to settle here. Many of us have already found our piece of paradise. Whether it’s Beachfront, Lakeview, Downtown, or a Cliffside... Port Stanley has so many property options to choose from. The homes I have listed in this issue are all very different. 258 Frances Street is a Downtown location on a quiet side street, with an in-law suite for family or income. 493 George Street is a large century home in Mitchell Heights with lots of land and 1.33 acres to relax and play! 183 Meek Street is a Hidden Gem on a Hill top, with Stunning Lake Views. Call me before you list or buy. I live here, I sell here, I know the market. Call or text me anytime, I am never too busy to talk to you about real estate. Greg 519 643 8361 [email protected]

LAKEVIEW HOME IN PORT STANLEY. Located in the Exclusive Mitchell Heights Neighborhood. Enjoy Life at the Beach and Everything it has to offer. Beautiful, Panoramic views inside and out! 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home. See all photos, video drone, and floor plans at MLS # 40252782. Call Greg for your personal showing.

Let’s see what your house is WORTH? FREE HOME EVALUATION – CALL ME DIRECT 519 643 8361

View Properties at: www.gregory-galbraith.c21.ca Gregory D. Galbraith, Salesperson Century 21 First Canadian Corp 420 York Street, London ON 519-673-3390

493 GEORGE STREET FOR SALE – ASKING $949,900

258 FRANCES STREET PORT STANLEY ASKING $869,900

To advertise here, please contact [email protected] DOWNTOWN LOCATION – Large Single Family home with Architectural Style and Class. Brand New Granny Suite in the lower level. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms on main, Gigantic 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom in the lower level. Many Options, Great Investment possible 3 AIRBNB Units. See all photos, video drone, and floor plans at MLS # 40274082, Call Greg for your personal showing.

Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022 • PRICE REDUCED – TRY YOUR OFFER! Century Family Home, on 1.33 acres of Land In Port Stanley. Breathtaking Views of the Forest and Valley in your Backyard. Short Walk to the Beach or Downtown. 5 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom home. See all photos, video drone, and floor plans at MLS # 40251865, Call Greg for your personal showing. Page 5

Celebrating 30 years of Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles The year is 1992: Brian Mulroney is Prime Minister of Canada and George H. Bush is President of the US; Michael Jackson’s Black and White is dominating the airwaves; Barry Bonds signs a 4.7-million-dollar deal with the Pirates to be the highest paid player in baseball, and gas costs about 50 cents a litre (which we thought was outrageous). Also in 1992, Anything Used, now known as Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles, opened its doors in Sparta. Owners, Pat and Mary Muscat had been looking to open their own store for some time, but a combination of deflated real estate prices and a chance meeting led to this local landmark being founded. “Anything Used was first,” says Pat. “We started off focusing on antique furniture, but we found that items under $5 were moving a lot faster than dressers that were $65.” With this realisation, Pat and Mary decided to pivot their original plan and offer more gift-oriented items, which also led them to their now famous candles and fudge. Pat tells the story of how they first came to buy this historical property. “Mary sent me down to this store, because she said they had a good sale going up and wanted to see if I could pick up any deals. As soon as I walked in the door, the lady that owned the store, who knew me from my employment at a psychiatric hospital, said, ‘Pat, here’s a really good deal for you,’ and we ended up buying the building.” When you walk in, you are immediately taken back to a different era, as the store is brimming with history. “The store was the first retail store built in Sparta, in 1838, I believe, and then they added on to it 1846,” says Pat. “It has been a going concern since the 1800s. As Merchants at the Musum – An historic market faire. July 30 & 31. Free event. Museum & Agricultural Centre tours at regular rates. Heritage Farm Show. September 3 & 4 $10/person. Children 12 and under free. Includes Museum and Agricultural Centre tours.

soon as you walk in, you feel that, because you look at the front of the store and it’s exactly like what it looked like in the early 1800’s. There are still parts of the store that are original, including shelving units, counters, and stuff like that. It’s unlike any shopping experience that you would have at a mall. As your go up the stairs to the old living quarters, some people say they can feel what it was like back in the early 1800s, when people were actually living there.” Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles is filled with a huge selection of items -- home décor, lawn and garden décor, gifts for anyone on your list, their handmade fudge, and their now famous candles. The candles have become a huge part of their business,

Agricultural Centre Hours of operation until Halloween: Tuesday – Sunday 10am-4pm $10/adult, $5/child (519) 762-3072

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Page 6 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022

as Mary and Pat strove to create a product that could both offer their customers quality as well as value. Pat is also proud that their candles are eco-friendly, as they have refills available for their jars. “That way a customer can use their containers repeatedly. It’s smart and customers appreciate that. They like the idea of being able to get good value for a fantastic price.” Pat is the first one to point out that while he may be seen as the face of the business, it is a family business and Mary is his partner in all aspects of it. “Mary is the person behind the scenes; she makes sure that this place keeps on going.” Along with Mary and Pat is their son, Mark, who is becoming a jack of all trades within the business. “Mark is an upcoming entrepreneur,” says Pat. “He manufactures the candles and looks after our

After 30 years, Pat says he is grateful for his loyal customers and the com- munity. “Our community has been supporting us from day one and their support has always been there. When we closed up because of the pandemic, I was concerned that peo- ple might not be willing to come back. But it was

Why does everyone who has one refuse to live without one? For only a few dollars a day we can create a space that implores your senses to re-adjust, demands your heart rate to slow and adds a smile to your face. It’s a space perfect for me-time. A space you won’t ever want to live without. Let us build your new favourite room! BOOK NOW FOR 2023 INSTALLATION FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION 9 OUT 10 SAY IT’S NOW THEIR FAMILY’S FAVOURITE ROOM WE DO IT ALL! SUNROOM Say yes to a new SUNROOM Say yes to a new FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION Why does everyone who has one refuse to live without one? For only a few dollars a day we can create a space that implores your senses to re-adjust, demands your heart rate to slow and adds a smile to your face. It’s a space perfect for me-time. A space you won’t ever want to live without. Let us build your new favourite room! 9 OUT 10 SAY IT’S NOW THEIR FAMILY’S FAVOURITE ROOM FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION WE DO IT ALL! SUNROOM Say yes to a new amazing! As soon as we’re able to open up, people came back and said how nice that was to be able to shop again. For me, what I’m seeing now is people are coming in with their young families, telling me, ‘You know, my mom used to bring me in here when I was a small child, and just walking in the door, the fragrances and a piece of fudge bring back memories of family experiences with my parents’. I don’t know how you put a value on that. When people tell me about these stories it just lights me up inside and I feel so good about what our family has been able to achieve. It’s not just dollars and cents, it is about being a part of people’s memories!” Help Mark, Pat and Mary celebrate their 30 years in business by stopping in, exploring, and picking up a gift for any member of your family (pets included). Anything Used & Sparta Country Candles is located at 46361 Sparta Line, in Sparta. IT, advertising and our public relations.” Both Mary and Pat hope that one day, when they are all ready, Mark will take over the operation of the store. Mary and Pat also enjoy the role of ambassadors for the community. “We’ve really worked hard to not only promote the store, but the whole community,” says Mary. “People will often stop in and ask us where to go and eat, where to go for a bottle of wine, or what to do within the area. We love to be able to help people enjoy this community.”

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VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART SHOWROOM TODAY! London (Lambeth) 2490 Main St., 519-266-3111 Kitchener 1486 Victoria St. N 519-742-3525 (local) or no charge dial 1-800-265-2184 and adds a smile to your face. It’s a space perfect for me-time. A space you won’t ever want tolive without. Let us build your new favourite room! All Season or 3-Season Enclosures Custom designed to fit your home - no standard sizes .Top quality products & Limited Lifetime Warranty www.tropicalsunrooms.com VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART SHOWROOM TODAY! London (Lambeth) 2490 Main St., 519-266-3111 Kitchener 1486 Victoria St. N 519-742-3525 (local) or no charge dial 1-800-265-2184 VISIT OUR STATE OF THE ART SHOWROOM TODAY! For only a few dollars a day we can create a space that implores your senses to re-adjust, demands your heart rate to slow THE SPECIALISTS SINCE 1988 All Season or 3-Season Enclosures. Custom designed to fit your home – no standard sizes. Top quality products & Lifetime Warranty.

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022 • Page 7

Calipso is Coming! Calipso is Coming!

Navy sailor in the early 19th Century. A former Fur Trade Schooner built in Detroit, the Nancy was retrofitted as a warship in 1812, to run supplies and help patrol the Great Lakes from being blockaded and controlled by the invading American Army. The Nancy crew perform ‘Living History Displays’. “We wear the same clothes, fire the same weapons, cook with the same cast iron implements, and sleep in the same canvas tents that British Royal Sailors did in 1812,” Kelly explains. “We haul, train on, clean and fire a reproduction cannon such as would have been common on warships at the time. We execute informative and educational cannon firing demonstrations as part of their Living History Display.” They will be LOUD, so bring your earplugs! Between cannon demonstrations, the Public is invited to tour their encampment where group members of the HMS Nancy will live for the Festival. They will be happy to give guided inspections of the cannon and implements. They are all knowledgeable amateur historians, skilled in the oral history of the war, including General Brock’s encampment in Port Stanley on August 9th, 1812 on his way to capture and take Fort Detroit from the Americans. It is their aim to keep the local history of Canada alive and well in the public eye, and to honour and remember those of our British and native allies who gave their lives to turn back the American invasion of 1812 and preserve Canadian Sovereignty. We hope you can join us at our Living History Display and celebrate Port Stanley with a Bang! Pending the Municipality Of Central Elgin’s approval, they will join us from Hofius Park throughout the weekend. Without the amazing support of the community, the CALIPSO Festival would not be possible. To all who have joined us to create this summer festival in Port, we would like to extend a heartfelt thanks and appreciation.

by Marna Berry, CEO, Travel Green Summer is upon us and this time of year our Port transforms into a southern vacation paradise. Beaches, boating, killer cuisine, shopping and attractions and ohhh, that lake effect. So many

have such fond memories of the village and have established generational traditions …. It is an honour to create a ‘celebration of our local’ summer festival to enhance the opportunity to showcase our unique attributes and local gems. Our vision is to hold an inclusive event encouraging participation throughout the community. Throughout the year, we have invited new committee members, events and input into the event. If you have ideas, please join us next year to enhance our offerings each year!! This year we welcomed a few new members who have really made a difference!!! Barb Kunz has introduced the CALIPSO Festival buttons you will find at retail locations throughout the village and has orchestrated a surprise feature you won’t want to miss at our Opening Ceremonies Kick Off Party at the Legion Friday night!! Todd Edmunds, a new committee member has stepped up to organize a Volleyball Tournament on the Main Beach. Pending insurance coverage, this will be a new activity this year. Ships Ahoy! Kelly Shewan introduces a new marine-themed attraction to the festival, The crew of the HMS, a volunteer War of 1812 Historical Re-enactment group that travels Ontario to entertain and educate the public about life as a British Royal

From our family to yours

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Burlesque Sideshow Acts ..........................

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Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022

Schedule of Activities Friday July 29th All day: War Of 1812 Historical Re-enactors Living History Location TBD 5 pm: Dusk Lions Antique Car Show Mackies parking lot Main Beach 6pm – 8pm: Opening Ceremonies, Port Stanley Legion 6pm – 9pm: Pirate Thom’s Magic Show, Harbour 10am – 9pm: Caribbean Pontoon Boat Cruises, Main Harbour 10am – 10pm: Exhibitors, West Harbour Saturday July 30th 8 am – 6 pm: Volleyball Tournament, Beach Volleyball Academy All day: War Of 1812 Historical Re-enactors, Hofius TBD 10 am – 2 pm: Kids Sandcastle Competition, Main Beach pavilion 10 am – 12 pm: Local Authors Book Signings, Port Stanley Library 10am – 8pm: Pirate Thom’s Magic Show, Harbour 10am – 10pm: Caribbean Pontoon Boat Cruises, Main Harbour 10am – 10pm: Exhibitors, Harbour 6pm: Limbo Contest, Pierside Beach Bar 3pm: Boat Parade, Harbour Sunday July 31st, 2022 All day: War Of 1812 Historical Re-enactors 11am – 1pm: Kids Bike Decorating, Main Beach Pavilion 10am – 8pm: Pirate Thom’s Magic Show, Harbour 10am – 8pm: Caribbean Pontoon Boat Cruises, Main Harbour 11am – 5pm: Buffalo Burger B.B.Q., Christ Anglian Church

TBA C.A.L.I.P.SO. Costume contest, Barnacles 10am – 10pm: Vendors, Harbour DUSK: Fireworks by Domus, Berm Monday August 1st All day War Of 1812 Historical Re-enactors, Hofius Park- 10am – 6 pm: Pirate Thom’s Magic Show, Harbour 10am – 8pm: Caribbean Pontoon Boat Cruises, Main Harbour 10am – 10 pm: Vendors, Harbour Below are the sponsors who have come forward by time of publication. There is still time to align yourself with this community initiative. THANK YOU SPONSORS! Friend of The Festival Barb Kunz Christine Stinson Bill Fehr D & L Juicery The Edible Journey Modern Maple Apropos Smelt Sponsorship White Feather Spa Port Stanley Festival Theatre

Karen Hutton Dallas Posthumus Pickerel Sponsorship GT’s At The Beach MYFM Port Stanley Villager Port Stanley BIA Elgin County Port Stanley Cottages Perch Sponsorship Thanks so much to Domus Development for their generous sponsorship of the Fireworks Display. Join us at dusk on the Harbourfront for the best fireworks EVER!! Contact calipsoport@outlook. com to become a sponsor, exhibitor or volunteer.

Port Stanley Foodland Legends Of Lake Erie Trout Sponsorship St Thomas Storage Port Stanley Legion Scott’s Printing Home Hardware Devin Kelly

Block the sun – not your view with our stylish and functional deck screens Security Shutters and Deck Screens Keep bugs and other unwanted guests out!

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Portside Gallery.ca Members present 26th Anniversary Show and Sale August 26th 1 to 6 pm • August 27th 11 to 6 pm Port Stanley Legion Original Art by 10 local artists Everyone welcome Free admission

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Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022 • Page 9

The Candy Gram, Celebrating Life with Sweetness by Peri Hayes In May of this year, Amy and Jerry Armer opened The Candy Gram in Port Stanley, Ontario. In addition to working full-time and raising their children, the high school sweethearts took the chance on a new adventure by opening a candy store in the very town in which they reside every summer. As first- time business owners, Amy and Jerry believe that everything is meant to be. The couple speak harmoniously: “We want to model to our children that taking risks is okay, and failure is not to be feared.” Working together to choose their products as a family is simultaneously a magical experience for their children and insightful for the new business owners. Jerry describes how special it is to, “See the products through their children’s eyes.” Amy describes the beautiful experience of feeling hearts light up while in their store. The couple’s objective in founding this business is to spread joy by offering a happy place with delicious items for everyone. The Candy Gram offers a variety of candy, cotton

candy, snow cones, and refreshing beverages. Thus far, their best sellers have been cotton candy (pop rocks are optional), snow cones, and nerd ropes. Beyond offering various sweet treats, Amy and Jerry are incredibly motivated to create a comfortable and relaxing environment where worries can be left at the door. The entrepreneurs generously ensure that their products are affordable for their customers, and they can occasionally be seen strolling through the neighbourhood offering free samples to passersby. The Candy Gram is a means of thanking their grandmother for the inheritance of their local family cottage, and giving back to the Port Stanley community. Amy and Jerry are passionate about their incentive to be in nature, as they believe that their store is a reason to connect people to the beach year-round. Amy and Jerry are especially proud of their gift boxes designed for teachers and influential figures, in celebration of the previous school year. Currently, the pair are preparing for the upcoming CALIPSO Festival this summer, as well as developing a candy box subscription, special gift boxes, and raffle competitions. Additionally, Amy and Jerry are excited to offer catering for private events. As Amy shares, “The Candy Gram will make your celebration extra sweet.” With so much to look forward to, Amy and Jerry express how appreciative they are to grow with the community. The Candy Gram is located at 162 William Street, Port Stanley, Ontario. Their hours of operation are Thursday – Friday, 12PM – 5PM, and Saturday – Sunday, 11AM – 6PM. The Candy Gram can be contacted on Instagram at thecandygram.portstanley, and “The Candy Gram” Facebook page for any inquiries.

Dan Salhani Broker CENTURY 21 First Canadian Corp., Dan Salhani Inc.; Brokerage* CELL: 519-639-4928 • OFFICE: 519-673-3390 Unit 1, 206 Main St, Port Stanley N5L 1C3 [email protected] www.century21.ca/daniel.salhani *Selling Real Estate since 1989 *Broker since 1997 *Resident of Port Stanley since 1998

OPEN Wednesday - Sunday 11am to 5pm 215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca OPEN Wednesday - Sunday 11am to 5pm 215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca

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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022

Fleurs Fraiche, Flowers for the Soul by Peri Hayes Opening in May of this year, Melissa Vandermeer proudly introduced Fleurs Fraiche to Port Stanley, Ontario. The French name, translating in English to ‘fresh flowers’, is an ode to the French art of styling bouquets. Melissa worked for the London-based Party Girls Company as an event decorator before utilizing her passion and entrepreneurial skills to open Fleurs Fraiche in London during COVID-19. When asked what drew Melissa to open a second store in Port Stanley, she reminisces about her experience visiting the beach as a teenager. Melissa seized the opportunity to be in the village that holds a special place in her heart and she feels honoured to be sharing her craft with the people of Port Stanley. Melissa celebrates the joy that her flowers bring people. In order to create an inclusive and inviting environment, she offers her customers a variety of accessible options. Fleurs Fraiche offers online shopping and delivery, as well as in-store hours of operation. Floral arrangements are priced by stem, while other options include a build-your-own bouquet experience, as well as the virtual alternative to order pre-designed arrangements through her website. Melissa specifically mentions how beneficial her subscription flower service has been in cultivating connections during the pandemic. This entrepreneur is looking forward to building deeper relationships within the community and meshing with other businesses. Melissa will be representing Fleurs Fraiche at the upcoming Port Stanley CALIPSO Festival, where she anticipates continuing to form these connections.

Fleurs Fraiche is located at 211 Main Street #1A, Port Stanley, Ontario. Their in-store hours of operation at the Port Stanley location are: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 10AM – 5PM; Friday, 10AM – 6PM, and Sunday, 11AM – 3PM. Fleurs Fraiche promotes their business on the Fleurs Fraiche website and Facebook page, as well as on the “fleurs_fraiche” Instagram account. For any inquiries, Fleurs Fraiche can be contacted by telephone at 519-857-7391.

In addition to preparing fresh flowers, the Fleurs Fraiche team of four celebrate the mind, body, and soul. Melissa wisely asserts, “What you feed will grow.” Intentional goods have been incorporated into the store, in order to encourage various means of practicing self-care. These include candles, fragrances, journals, books and bath salts. Additionally, Fleurs Fraiche offers sunscreen, wicker baskets, blankets, and other beach essentials to encourage spending time in nature. ‘Creating

beautiful experiences,’ is the Fleurs Fraiche motto. Whether by holding a precious flower, exploring mindfulness through intentional goods, or engaging in friendly conversation, Melissa candidly shares her hopes that every visitor will leave Fleurs Fraiche feeling as though they have had a meaningful experience.

To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

Port Stanley Villager • July-August 2022 • Page 11

Elgin County Drowning Prevention Coalition

how we can change those behaviours and create awareness to reduce the numbers of drownings. We often associate drownings with swimming or boating, yet we don’t often realize the workplace hazards working near open water or even hazards in our own home -- for example, a slip and fall in a bathtub, a toddler playing in a toilet or unsupervised during a bath. Studies have found that alcohol and drug consumption are known to be leading

A recently formed EC drowning prevention coalition is making waves. MaryKate Townsend is a lifelong St.Thomas resident and pleasure craft marine insurance underwriter, and Briar McCaw, Queen’s University student and lifeguard. “It is our mission,” says MaryKate, “To reduce, and ultimately prevent, the incidence of fatal and non-fatal drownings and other related injuries in Elgin County and area, by creating awareness, and promoting safe water-related behaviours and activities through various public education and community outreach initiatives.” Elgin County spans over 100kms of the northern shoreline of Lake Erie. When the temperatures soar in the summer months, we naturally see an increase in visitors to the 6 public beaches and numerous marinas/boat launches in the area. With that comes an increase in the number of water-related fatalities and incidents during those months. Nearly two thirds of all fatal unintentional drownings occur during a recreational activity, approximately 26% of which are related to swimming and 24% to boating. [9th edition report]. Approximately 460 people fatally drown in Canada each year, and it’s known to be the third leading cause of injury death worldwide. In Ontario, the number of drowning deaths equates to approx. 152 each year, but for every fatal drowning, there are at least four non-fatal, that we are aware of [9th edition]. One of the ECDPC goals is to collaborate with local emergency services to collect measurable >Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16

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