Port Stanley Villager December 2021

Port Stanley Villager December 2021

Port Stanley Villager December 2021 • Issue 35

Letter fromtheEditor At last, the big month is here, December, whichmeans all things holidays around this house- hold. I made my first fruit cake ever this year (find the recipe in our Boomers & Beyond magazine); Dickens’ Days have come and gone; the house is decorated; Christmas music has been on a steady rotation and about a dozen holiday movies already under the belt. For those of you

campaign. In this campaign, local businesses and organizations place holiday ads in the magazine and for each ad, we donate to the local organization, Smile for Seniors at Christmas which gives gifts to residents of all 8 local long-term care homes in the area. This year, with the help of all of our amazing businesses and organizations, we were able to donate $2750 to Smile for Seniors at Christmas which is our largest donation yet! We of course like to make a contest of it too, so check out the Wanted Ad on page seven for more details. A big thank you to all the businesses and organizations who took part. Another year has come and gone; this is our last issue of 2021 and what an exciting and sometimes challenging year it has been. I would like to thank all of our readers who have taken the time to reach out with their thoughts over this past year and I look forward to another great year in 2022. Just a note, with the holidays where they are, our January/ February issue will be out in mailboxes mid-January rather then the first of the month as usual. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

who enjoy Hallmark movies, I would heavily suggest Window Wonderland , likely the best Hallmark movie I have seen. I am sure you have seen on Facebook all the messages about getting your shopping done early because all the stores are running out of merchandise. If you have looked around at your local stores, I am sure you will find they are all stocked up and ready to help you find that amazing gift for the loved ones on your list. This is why, once again this year, we are presenting our Christmas Gift Guide, where we offer a suggestion of gifts from 17 local stores. The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce also put out its exciting book, Our Favourite Things , their guide to shopping local which is available now in hardcopies as well as online. The holidays are a season of giving, not only to friends and family but also of remembering those in need. On top of our usual donations to the kettle campaign, Christmas Care and the local food banks, we once again held our Care to Share a Smile

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Page 2 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

It’s More Than Just About Great Looking Hair

For men, going to the barber was just what you did, for decades. This tradition is trending upwards once again with the help of folks like Scotty Wilkins, owner of Angry Bear Barbershop. Scotty was born and raised in the Sparta Area, and now calls Port Stanley home. While Scotty has a family tradition of barbering and has been a barber himself for over 5 years, his journey has taken a few twists to get to his present calling. “After many positions in marketing, finance and mortgages, I felt like something was missing,” Scotty explains. “Work seemed like work; I was missing passion. I always had a very high appreciation for having nice hair, and after my first barbershop visit, I was hooked on quality men’s grooming. One day, I just said, ‘Hey I need to make a change’ and signed up for barber school following in my Great-Uncle and Great- Grandpa’s footsteps.” “My passion for barbering is that I get to wake up and meet and talk to so many people every day” says Scotty. “A haircut or any grooming service isn’t just about looking good; it’s about maintaining, improving, or even building someone’s confidence. There is just something so satisfying in seeing those mask-covered, smiling faces come in and out of the shop and our lives each day.” This is the second location for Scotty and the Angry Bear Barbershop, the first being opened in St. Thomas last year. “When Kyle, owner of Apropo told me he had space available next to his amazing store, I thought it was a no brainer and started to plan,” Scotty recalls. “We will be offering all the traditional barber services not only for men but the whole family, including men’s and women’s short cuts, crispy fades, beard grooming, kids’ cuts and hair designs.” Another great service Scotty and his team offer is their hot towel shaves. “If you haven’t had a hot towel shave, I would happily recommend it. Women have the spa, nail appointments and facials, so a hot towel shave is a chance for men to sit back, unwind and pamper themselves.” Scotty says he will be splitting his time between his St. Thomas and the new Port Stanley Location, but Amy Wray, a Port Stanley local, will be in the Port Stanley location full time. “Amy is an amazingly talented, friendly individual and barber, and is now running the Angry Bear barbershop here, Tuesday to Saturday.” Scotty is both proud and excited to be starting this new adventure right here in Port Stanley. “Being able to do this in

this amazing community that I have grown up in, while seeing childhood friends now grown up and having their own kids and raising them in the area is something truly amazing and heart warming.” The Angry Bear Barbershop is located at 227 Colborne St., Port Stanley, next to Apropos.

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Port Stanley Villager • December 2021 • Page 3

Port Stanley Festival Theatre says Goodbye to Long-time Theatre Manager Parting is such sweet sorrow is one of the most famous lines in theatre. For the Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT), they are experiencing the sweet sorrow as their long-time Theatre Manager, Natasha Newby has stepped away from her role after beingwith the theatre on and off for over 20 years. Natasha started with the PSFT back in the 90’s as a box office clerk; returned in 2006 as the Box Office Manager and again in 2017 as the Theatre Manager. “I started here when I was 18,” says Natasha. “I worked my way up to box office and front of house manager. Then I went back to college, so I left and then came back again when I was 27. I had just had my son, and was looking for part time work, and then I came back again four years ago. It’s kind of been a steady part of my life; it’s almost like it has been there when I needed it. It’s interesting how every experience has brought me back here and each time, at a specific, pivotal term in my life.” “It has been really hard. I love Port Stanley and I grew up in Port Stanley. I feel like I’m not only leaving the theatre, but I am sort of leaving my community again, which is kind of odd, because I’m really not; I am just going down the street.” Natasha has accepted the role as Executive Director of the Elgin St. Thomas Community Foundation after the retirement of Terry Carroll. While leaving is difficult for Natasha, she is proudest of helping the theatre to grow, with more patrons each year enjoying their shows. “Record breaking sales,” says Natasha, “Year after year. It is a skill set of mine to come in and make changes in whatever organization I have been in. It was rewarding with record breaking sales every year because it was unexpected. It’s a big family here. I think that it’s very rewarding when you exceed expectations and you can look at it and know that it wasn’t just you; it was a team you led successfully, and they were so motivated, even though we’re working through a pandemic. They’re really motivated to do it again next year despite all odds, which I love. Even though I am leaving, I know they’re going to do it and I will be so happy for them.” Though Natasha will no longer be the Theatre Manager, she is still looking forward to being a part of the PSFT. “I plan to support PSFT by being a patron and gettingmy season tickets and enjoying the theatre and connecting with my community in a different way. Perhaps I’ll volunteer as an usher and come in that way. To me, it is really important to stay connected. Like I said, they have provided me opportunities to flourish when needed them.” Photo by Geoff Rae

Good luck to Natasha in her new role with the Elgin St. Thomas Community Foundation and thank you for everything you have done for the theatre!

Port Stanley Villager December 2021 Cover Christmas has arrived at Joshua & Company. Photo of my gnomies! Photo by Geoff Rae If you would like to submit your photo or painting for consideration for a future issue of the Port Stanley Villager please email them to geoff@ villagerpublications.com.

Christmas has arrived at Joshua & Company. Photo of my gnomies!

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Page 4 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

2021 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide

Pet Lovers For those who have furry four-legged friends in your lives, don’t forget; they would love something for Christmas too! Port’s Pets (208 Main St.) has just the thing, Christmas Cookies baked just for them from The Barkery. These festive, all natural dog biscuits will have their tails wagging! Stocking Stuffer Need that extra gift to finish off your holiday shopping, but just not sure what to get? Stop into The Storehouse (211 Main St.) and pick up a bag of Barb’s Brickle. Brickle is an old

Foodies For your family, or for friends who always love to host, Pepper Tree Spice Co. (223 Colborne St.) has the perfect solution – one of their luxury gift boxes. Their Home for the Holidays box includes: a

bottle of Mrs. Bridges Holiday Chutney and Cranberry Sauce with Port; a bottle of Pinot Noir with a holiday wine stopper; place cards, coasters, Chocolate Peppermint Crunch, and the Pepper Tree Spice Co.’s Home for the Holidays spice collection. Live Theatre Live theatre is back, and makes the perfect gift for anybody on your list. Theatre is a great date night, or night out amongst friends for a good laugh or cry. The talent we have at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre (302 Bridge St.) makes it the perfect go-to destination for a live performance.

English word for pieces, and these pieces of pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are roasted to perfection and have dried fruit added. You can choose between cherry, blueberry, or cranberry. Add a decorative container or give it as it is. Jewellery Lover

Chances are you have someone on your list who would like to dress like a celebrity. Well, Lady Savannah Fashion Boutique (207 Main St.) to the rescue with their jewellery line designed by Canadian designer, Jenny Bird. These 14k gold plated pieces can be spotted on the likes of Selena Gomez, Kylie Jenner, Margot Robbie and now, your loved ones!

Fromour family to yours HappyHolidays! Dine with us. Stay with us. Wishing our guests & neighbours a Happy Holiday Season! Elgin’s Premiere Farm to Table Experience Phone: 519-782-4173 324 Smith St., Port Stanley www.thewindjammerinn.com Follow us on Twitter  Like us on Facebook  Self Serve Still Open 5680 Sunset Rd (on the way to Port Stanley) www.debackerefarmmarket.ca Wishing our guests & neighbours a Happy Holiday S ason! Dine with us. Stay with us. Elgin’s Premiere Far to Table Experience Phone: 519-782-4173 324 Smith St., Port Stanley www.thewindjammerinn.com Follow us on Twitter  Like us on Facebook  Wishing our guests & neighbours a Happy Holiday Season Dine with us. Stay with us. Elgin’s Premier Farm to Table Experience 519-782 4173 • www.thewindjammerinn.com • 324 Smith St., Port Stanley

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Port Stanley Villager • December 2021 • Page 5

2021 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide

Fashion Lovers This holiday season is all about comfort, functionality, and fashion style. What better way to adorn that special person on your list than with this gorgeous intarsia tribal cardigan from Frankly Scarlett (197 Main St.) Featuring luxe yarn with beautifully blended colors, dual pockets and a hood, its cozy warmth will go anywhere in high style. Art Lover With so many amazing local artists, it is easy to find the perfect gift. Peter Robson Studios in Sparta (46340 Sparta Line) suggests a print of ‘Village Christmas’ which captures the magic

Stylish Outerwear For those on your list who love both comfort and fashion, Studio Style Apparel (215 Main St.) has just the thing, a stylish winter coat by Junge. This international renowned designer offers winter coats that will keep you warm and fashionable during our Canadian winters. Pair it with one of Studio Style’s amazing

scarves and you have the perfect gift. Christmas Vacation Lovers Have someone on your list who can’t get enough of National Lam- poon’s Christmas Vacation? Give them the iconic moose eggnog

of an old fashioned Christmas. And with hundreds of custom framed Peter Robson prints to choose from, with prices starting at $15.00, local art makes a perfect Christmas gift. Loved ones in Pain

glasses from the movie, available at James Street Home Décor (294 Bridge St.). Wendy, Cassandra, and Jessica want you and your loved ones to have the Hap-Hap-Happiest Christmas while sipping nog in these hilarious glasses. Warmth

Whether it is pain in the hands from hours spent at holiday baking or a constant pain in the back, we all have loved ones who could use some pain relief. Whistle Stop Peddlers in Sparta

Looking to give the gift of warmth to that special someone who is always cold? Stop into IDA Highland Drug Mart (222 Colborne St.) and see their collection of holiday season hats, mitts, gloves, slippers and socks, guaranteed to keep your loved ones warm on those long winter nights!

(46349 Sparta Line) has Active Releaf and other CBD products. From roll-ons, oils, bath bombs, balms and soaps, this might be just the pain relief they need.

We are a little extra this year...

This holiday season we ask that you remember those in our community in need. Donations can be dropped off at Port Stanley Foodland or at 283 Colborne St (side door).

Extra thankful this holiday season for our patrons, volunteers, board members, billets, colleagues, family and friends. With much joy we look to the good things to come & wish you a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

519-782-4353 www.psft.ca PortStanleyFestivalTheatre

Items in need: Chunky Soups, Kids lunch snacks (no nuts), Ben’s Instant Rice, Canned vegetables, Canned tomatoes, Toilet paper, Canned Meats, Instant Noodles. Cash Donations also accepted.

May your Christmas be Merry and BRIGHT!

Office hours Wednesday 2–6pm. We thank you for your support. 283 Colborne St, Port Stanley 519-782-3122 [email protected]

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Page 6 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

2021 Port Stanley Holiday Gift Guide

Port Stanley Lovers For those who love this village and want to show it we suggest the Port Stanley mugs made locally and handcrafted by Yellow Brick Pottery (6781 Union Rd). These stoneware mugs are dishwasher and microwave safe, and also oven proof. Mugs vary in volume, typically ranging from 12-18 oz. For the Family

Natural Skin Care Winter can be harsh on our skin. The Edible Journey (205 Main St) has the solution. Their organic handmade skincare collection, designed to keep your skin nour-ished includes their favourite, Healing Hand Salve and Intense Lip Repair, a gorgeous Cacao Butter Body Bar, Hibiscus Sugar Scrub, and a volcanic lava stone to keep every part of you feeling loved! Christmas Décor

There is nothing better during the holidays (or anytime, really) than spending time with your family. With that in mind, our local Port Stanley Home Hardware (298 Bridge St) suggests the gift of board games. From 2 player games to games suited to the whole family, Home Hardware has a large selection of games to suit every family. Something Unique Who doesn’t love to have something completely unique? At reVibe (221 Col- borne St) you can find something as unique as that loved one in your life, a custom, locally made Old Crow Cigar Box Guitar. These amazing guitars are perfect for playing or as a unique piece of décor.

Everyone wants their home to be extra special at the holidays. Whether your loved ones like gnomes, deer, snowmen or cardinals, Joshua and Co. (194 Main St.) is bursting with wonderful winter décor. Check out their Cardinal selection with prints, snow globes, pillows and more.

For your Gnomies Little gnomes are big this time of year. They are no longer relegated to people’s yards; they are everywhere and for all seasons. If there’s a person in your life who loves

gnomes, you should stop into Julia Hansford’s Spart Studio (46341 Sparta Line) to see her selection of unique hand painted gnomes. Julia’s collection features a gnome for everyone’s taste!

How you can win! Port Stanley Villager Magazine has partnered with local businesses to help share the joy of Christmas to local seniors. Search this magazine for this Santa logo, and each time you find him you will see a business who cared to share a smile this Christmas. Each of theseSantas represents one

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or two gifts given to local seniors through the Smiles for Seniors program. This year with the support of our local businesses we were able to donate $2700. If you spot all the Santas, you too have a chance to win. Count the Santas and send an email with your name and phone number to [email protected] with the correct amount of Santas for your chance to win. On December 15th we will randomly draw one name from the correct entries and you could win a $50 James Street Home Décor Card just in time for Christmas!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Port Stanley Villager

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Port Stanley Villager • December 2021 • Page 7

Your guide to shopping

Dear Port Stanley Villager,

ST THOMAS & district

2021 edition

Our Favourite Things – Your Guide to Shopping Local features some of our community’s most dynamic leaders and highlights just a small sample of some of the great gifts available right here in St. Thomas, Central Elgin, and Southwold.

Find your copy in the mail, view it online at StThomasChamber.on.ca or on our Facebook page!

Share these great gift ideas with family and friends!

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Page 8 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

Thank you for supporting local!

Proudly Local.

Stronger Together – The Port Stanley Village Association Community, Communication, Advocacy: these are the founding principles of the Port Stanley Village Association (PSVA) of which Dan Ross has now been a member of for the past 5 years, and President for the past 3. Dan and his wife moved to Port Stanley in the late 90s when they became empty nesters, as Dan’s wife grew up here. “We came back and built a house down here,” says Dan. “It’s been great; we enjoy the village and what it has to offer. It’s been nice for us and it’s been nice for our family, for our grandkids.” When Dan starts talking about the PSVA, you can hear his commitment to the betterment to the village. “The association was initially formed about 12 years ago, I think largely in reaction to the divestiture of the harbour and what people perceived as an obvious watershed moment in the growth and development of Port Stanley. They really wanted an organization that would make people aware of what was going on, but also give people a voice in what was going on in a very constructive way. It has simply grown from there. It has matured as an organization; our objectives are stated on our website, and they’re very real. We’re not here to debate with a bunch of people; we’re here to make our community better. We try to contribute in the most intelligent, researched and thought-out way to do that. Awareness has become top of mind for us.” With that goal in mind, Dan and the PSVA have launched an updated website, which he feels is a strong improvement over the old one and he encourages anyone who has questions about the PSVA and their goals to give it a look. “Communication is one of the cornerstones of the PSVA,” says Dan. “Every Monday, we send out a newsletter to our members, highlighting what’s gone on in the community; we report on council meetings, but we also report on other events of current interest. Our website sets out what we are, who we are and how we intend to go about it.” Dan is no stranger to taking part for the betterment of his community. “My whole lifetime, I’ve been very active in any number of things that are often community based and mostly volunteer. I’m a past chair in the hospital in London. I sat on the healthcare restructuring commission for Ontario. I was the President of the London Tigers. I’ve been involved in hospitals for over 30 years, and now I’m the Vice Chair of STEGH in St. Thomas.” While Dan is still involved with some organizations in

London, it is his goal to become, “More retired every day,” as he says with a chuckle. “It was sort of natural for me to take an interest in the community. And then I was approached by some people who were more directly involved, and one thing led to another and here I am. You get out of the community exactly what you put into it.” Dan thinks a great way to get people involved in the PSVA is the fact that they have broken up into different committees. “I think it is important to our community to have a number

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Page 10 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

The PSVA currently has approx. 300 members and has seen some recent growth, in part due to the release of the new website. “I think as we move to the committee structure, and the community becomes more aware of that committee structure, l think we will see even more join and awareness will continue to grow,” says Dan. There of course is strength in numbers, not only from the point of view of influence over projects but also, the more people who participate, the more ideas and opinions are considered. “The more members we have, the more it gives us a legitimate voice before council to affect things that happen in our community. We don’t want to compete with anybody in the community; we respect what our service clubs do, what our BIA does, and what our heritage committee does. Our goal is to support them in any way we can and be a voice for them when it makes sense. One of our goals is to really increase collaboration, to work with other people to secure and create that sense of community, that community culture.” The PSVA is meant to be a voice for the community and can only achieve that if the community participates. Dan and the whole PSVA encourage as many people possible to get involved and have their say. “The goal is always greater than the sum of its parts. It’s interesting; once people get going and they become invested, that is what encourages them to be members or even if not members, to become more invested in their community and become involved. The bottom line is that it is not rocket science; I think that we can be something that makes our community better and that’s the goal.” For more information on the Port Stanley Village Association, check out their website at www.psva.ca.

of committees, all of which speak to specific elements in our community.” These committees include: The harbour development committee, parks committee, affordable housing committee, fundraising committee and a user-friendly community committee. “The user-friendly committee is going to be very important for the future seniors. The committees are a great way to get our members active in the PSVA as they can find an area in which they have some specific interest, which is not as onerous from a time commitment standpoint. Our members can make a contribution to the village.”

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• Page 11

Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

For the Love of Skincare

While the original plan for Lacey was to work on a cruise ship and travel throughout Europe, her plans shifted 18 years ago when she bought a house and started working at a top spa. “I was ready for a new chapter and a new challenge,” she says. “During the pandemic, some of us had some extra time to reflect. I realized Port Stanley did not have an establishment quite like the one I had envisioned; knowing this area for years and watching it grow and change I thought it would be a perfect location”. NADO Skin & Body Spa offers medical grade peels, micro needling, specialized facials, dermaplaning, laser hair removal, waxing and more. “I love hearing clients say, ‘that was one of the best facials I ever had; how often should I be doing this?’ Most people think a facial is a luxury or a once-in-a-while treat for women only. Truth is anyone at any age can benefit from it.” I was not the first to ask what NADO means. Lacey says she was just playing around with her last name; it’s the first part of her last name, backwards. “It also means swim in Spanish and Portuguese,” which she found appropriate as NADO Skin & Body Spa can be found along the water. While NADO Skin & Body Spa has only been open a short time, Lacey says she can already feel the warmth of Port Stanley. “The local love has been nothing but genuine enthusiasm and I could not be happier. Thank you for all the friendly drop ins, the smiles and waves on your morning walks and for the good word of mouth”. NADO Skin & Body is located at 204 Main St. on the west side of the building.

People often take their skin for granted; we can use harsh soaps, stay out in the sun too long and generally don’t give it a second thought. Lacey Odanski, owner of the new NADO Skin & Body Spa in Port Stanley points out, “We wear our skin every day of our whole lives, so treat it well, take care of it, make it a necessity.” Lacey, has been a prac- tising aesthetician for the past 18 years, after finish- ing her training at Pebec School of Aesthetics, a CIDESCO accredited

program. “I have always loved skin care,” says Lacey. “I love the ritual, I love seeing results, I love educating clients on why it is so important to take care of our skin and on what products to use and how to effectively use them together to target any condition and get their skin back on track, or to simply feel relaxed and pampered. I have met all walks of life and my favourite part of that is forming relationships with clients. No day is ever the same. I feel fortunate to be a part of an industry that is always growing, always changing – new products, new treatments, new techniques. It keeps you on your toes.”

Wishing you a season filled with warm moments and cherished memories Elgin-Middlesex-London Federal Liberal Association www.liberal.ca/register

for the Holiday Season!

Visit the Studio for Great Gift Giving Ideas . Gift Certificates available.

Port Stanley Villager Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor /Sales [email protected] • 519-495-7177 Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher – Barb Botten [email protected] Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Please email [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you.

Kim Ariesen, Proprietor

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Page 12 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year by Marna Berry Dickens Day’s Celebration certainly has kindled the Christmas Spirit through- out our village. With horse drawn carriage rides, VictorianCarollers and fire warming stations to roast marshmallows

Photo by Magical Port Stanley

and snuggle up, a Town Crier and a Christmas market!! Amid a spectacular show of Christmas lights throughout the village we will be celebrating, for a second year in a row, our new tradition of ringing bells on Christmas Eve. This lovely idea started as a ‘little idea for the community’ in Harrogate, England and spread quickly around the world. On Christmas Eve at 6 pm, we are asking everyone to go outside and ring a bell for 2 mins to spread Christmas spirit and to help Santa fly that sleigh. It would be a wonderful memory for the kids and the community. Let’s end 2021 with a bit of magic, hope and togetherness! If you would like to ring a 400 pound bell, visit Christ Anglican Church, Port Stanley where since 1854, this amazing bell has found its home in the church’s bell tower. “It was adored by the village and was said to be “noted for its’ sweet tone and on a calm Sabbath night can be heard for miles around the countryside.” You are invited to join in the Christmas Eve Jingle 2021 tradition at the church, starting at 6 pm followed by Christmas Carols at 7pm & Candlelight Christmas Service to follow at 7:30 pm. Christmas inspires a desire to connect to loved ones and the community and at times like these, we can feel so grateful for our vibrant village!!! With all the instability due to COVID, we are especially thankful for our community organizations and their gifts of giving back. Here are some ways you can get into the spirit and help out in this season of giving. The Port Stanley & Area Community Cupboard has seen an increase in the demand since COVID and is in need of our donations to help make this Christmas season special for some of our local families. To make a donation, please e-transfer to [email protected]. Donations can also be dropped off at the Port Stanley Foodland. If you know anyone who needs help, they are open the 3rd Tuesday (3:30 - 6 pm) and the following Thursday of every month (10 am - 12 noon) at Christ Anglican Church, located at 283 Colborne Street. Each year in conjunction with the Port Stanley Legion, they also distribute Turkey Baskets & Christmas Care packages.

The Optimist Club has an ‘Angel tree’ in the library where you can purchase an Angel to remember family and friends who are no longer with us; all proceeds from this programme go to the ‘bravery bead’ programme at the London children hospital. You can shop locally and visit the indoor Christmas market at the Port Stanley Arena on December 11th!!! Visit a local pub for the Christmas December 3rd for the Ugly Sweater & Mask Holly Hop. Hope you have yourself a very Merry Christmas!

COLD WEATHER IS COMING! COLD WEATHER IS C I ! COLD WEATHER IS COMING! It’s time to have your boiler and hot water heating equipment serviced. We can h lp with all of your service and r placement needs. It’s time to have your boiler and hot water heating equipment serviced. We can help with all of your service and replacement needs. It’s ti e to have your boiler and hot water heating equip ent serviced. e can help with all of your service and replace ent needs. Call us today to book your appointment Call us today to book your appoint ent Call us today to book your appointment

Port Stanley Villager • December 2021 519-631-5810 [email protected] - - 0 [email protected] 519-631-5810 [email protected]

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• Page 13

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Page 14 Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

Port Matters by Frances Kennedy

[email protected]

Remembrance Day, 2021 was unsurprisingly reminiscent of 2020. Like last year, socially distanced bubbles floated quietly about

On the cusp of Remembrance Day, Christmas in Port bustled in resplendent holiday sparkle. For the second year, participating Port retailers have coordinated a festive offering for online and on-the-street shoppers alike. The Twelve Days of Christmas, from December 1st-12th promises a unique and abundant bounty of art, crafts, and artisanal offerings close at hand with service and convenience that are a match for Amazon. Shop local; when we buy local, we strengthen our community. Make it; what better time than now to offer the best of what you do to those who appreciate it most? Or… make magic memories; often, the greatest gift you can give someone is the gift of your time and undivided attention. Let’s brighten the dark days of December with the gift of an open heart; whenpossible…anopendoor; and in January, if possible… an open mind. We have nearly concluded the year I wished to be “The Year of Miracles” and there’s still time. What if in 2022 we establish a community initiative called P.S. I Love You? The Elgin St. Thomas Community Foundation funds projects that foster community safety and well-being. What if it’s just ONE Thing that galvanizes a community to work together for a common cause? What if that builds a bridge over a great divide? What if we knew what our community needs most right now? What if we did just ONE Thing to beckon in the New Year? What if we rang in the New Year with bells at midnight like last year? Let’s just do it and listen for the magic we create. Peace, love and joy this holiday season, andmaywe find common ground on the other side of 2021. My wish for us is that we create an epic New Year! When we practice our best future, we create it.

Veteran’s Park. We observed with respect the services honouring all thosewho sacrificedyouth, life, and limb for our democratic freedom. It was amoving sight to see theMissingMan Formation flyover at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in honour of fallen pilots. (The ensuing V formations of Canada geese was Mother Nature’s reminder of the wisdom of coordinated effort for collective well- being.) The ceremony’s military precision was a comfort, knowing that despite chaos, whether caused by a bridge closure or a global pandemic, what matters most remains. Speaking of bridges, let’s not forget that we, here now, knewand loved thosewho fought, while our children do not. We are the bridge between our ancestors and our progeny lest they forget the sanctity and fragility of democracy. Thank you to all groups involved; volunteers, participants, and the Legion coordinators for the ceremonies, and to Terry Campbell and Maddy Kirk for a “souper” lunch! Congratulations to Sherry Trowhill and the Poppy Committee for a popular new lawn ornament… lawn Poppies sold us and sold out! Not least, thank you to our MPP, Jeff Yurek; our Deputy Mayor, Tom Marks; and our Ward One Councillor, Colleen Rowe: thank you for your presence in honour of our veterans. Public service is at best a thankless task with brief moments of acknowledgement; thank you for all you do. Finally, bravo to Apropos whose windows were an elegant and eloquent salute to our veterans. That clear sunny day was followed soon after by the first fierce blast of winter that blew through and blanketed us, much like last year. Change, even the predictable seasonal sort, requires both adjusting to the chaos it creates and maintaining the hope and belief that this too shall pass. Prevailing with “spirits bright” through the second Christmas of COVID19 will require adaptive resilience. It’s bound to be one helluva challenge to hunker down, withstanding winter and its inherent COVID health hazards while maintaining authentic human connection. To that end, may I say this to those who take offense at perspectives that differ from their own: this is an opinion column; it is not intended to offend, and it’s most certainly not required reading. Regardless of your position on how best to achieve economic sustainability and community well-being, we share a need for connection. (I miss friends for whom I’d cut some slack!)

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• Page 15

Port Stanley Villager • December 2021

The holidays bring joy to kids of all ages!

The Optimist Club of Port Stanley wishes you a Merry Christmas

Thank you Jackpot City for your support.

and Happy New Year New Members Always Welcome www.portstanleyoptimists.com or call (519) 769-2514 Serving our community for over 50 years

To all of our residents, friends and family Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

PEACE, LOVE & GREAT HAIR merry christmas

574 Talbot St., St. Thomas • 519-207-0777 227 Colborne St. Port Stanley • 519-658-1800 book online at www.angrybearbarbershop.ca

Enjoy the magic of the season, feel it, believe it, embrace it!

To the community that we love, Merry Christmas from the Port Stanley Lions

Happy Holidays from the County of Elgin and remember to shop local this holiday season!

Community – Communication – Advocacy Join the PSVA at psva.ca and keep informed about our activities and our village. Membership is free and you will receive a regular emailed newsletter. The joys of the season to you, your family and friends