July to September,2026

pcsp.ca Issue 3 | Summer 2026 Tickle The Community Newsletter Resident honoured Resident honoured with Governor with Governor General General medal medal Learn how Learn how to to understand understand the Fire the Fire Hazard Hazard Rating Rating before lighting before lighting a a fire fire Join our Join our Summer Summer Reading Reading Challange, and Challange, and you you could could win! win! Your Town Council 03 Community News 04 Community News 05 Public Works and Safety 06 Community Services 08 Mayor’s Welcome & Council Contact Information. Resident awarded with highest academic standing with the Governor General Medal. Make summer sweeter with Sarah’s Lemon Blueberry Loaf Recipe! Reminders of off-road safety, and ATV safety. Details on our upcoming Regatta Festival celebrations. Town Council Updates 09 Community Groups 11 12 Meet the Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s Junior Council. Details on event dates, and where to find the latest information on groups. Did You Know? This newsletter is This newsletter is 100% recyclable! Our Junior Council from Beachy Cove Elementary Contents Features Summer Reading + Library Summer is a great time to read lots of books! Check our Summer Reading Challenge, and you could win a prize! Plus, we have new summer library hours. Is Today a Burn Day? With warmer weather, it’s important to understand the Fire Hazard Rating and if it’s safe day to have a fire. See page 10 for all the information before you light a fire! Alternate Formats We offer The Tickle Newsletter in alternate formats. Upon request, we’ll arrange accessible formats for persons with disabilities, in consultation with the person making the request. Contact [email protected], or call (709) 895-8000 for assistance. 07 10 Summer has officially arrived, and there is energy buzzing through our community! I am absolutely thrilled to welcome back one of our town’s most cherished traditions, the Regatta. This year promises to be an unforgettable celebration, featuring our traditional dory races, plenty of family-friendly games for the kids, fantastic food and drink vendors, and lively entertainment to keep us celebrating all day long. It’s the perfect opportunity for us to come together, enjoy the sunshine, and make lasting memories with family and neighbours alike. While we embrace the beautiful weather, it is also important that we keep safety at the forefront of our minds. Forest fire season is now officially underway and will remain in effect until September. To help protect our beautiful surroundings, a comprehensive fire safety brochure was recently circulated to all households. We’ve also included it on page 10 of this edition of The Tickle Newsletter – feel free to take it out, and put Contact Dave it on your fridge! Please take a few moments to review it, paying special attention to the guidelines on understanding the daily fire hazard ratings. Dave Bartlett [email protected] A little awareness goes a long way in keeping our community safe. M ayo t e l t r r Ba t (709) 330-7381 Your Town Council Mayor’s Welcome Looking ahead, the fun doesn’t stop when the warmer months fade! We already have some fantastic fall events in the works, and we will be sharing all those exciting details with you this coming September. On behalf of myself and the town council, I wish all of you a safe, happy, and absolutely lovely summer season! Dave Contact Council Deputy-Mayor Kim Churchill [email protected] (709) 765-0055 Councillor Gavin Will [email protected] (709) 765-4305 Erin t r e b o R Councillor Keith Culleton [email protected] (709) 765-2569 Councillor Erin Gallant [email protected] (709) 765-2675 Kim Dave Councillor Wendy Squires-Ennis [email protected] (709) 765-0107 Councillor Robert Stapleton [email protected] (709) 765-9556 n i v a y d G n e h t i e W K 03 Community News Local Student Receives Governor General’s Silver Medal at Memorial University One of Memorial University’s highest academic honours was awarded to Jessica Hall of Portugal Cove–St. Philip’s as she received the prestigious Governor General’s Silver Medal. The medal recogizes the highest academic standing among all undergraduate graduates for this year’s convocation. Presented during a special ceremony by Memorial University’s President, Dr Janet Morrison and Chancellor Earl Ludlow, the award is considered one of the university’s highest academic distinctions and celebrates exceptional achievement across every undergraduate faculty and program. Jessica is graduating with a Bachelor of Science (Honours), majoring in Biology with a concentration in Health Sciences, and completed her degree with an outstanding 97.6 percent average. In addition to receiving the Governor General’s Silver Medal, she was also awarded the Medal of Excellence in Biology for earning the top academic standing in the graduating Biology class. Jessica has been accepted into medical school at Memorial University of Newfoundland, where she will begin the next chapter of her academic and professional journey this fall. St. Lawrence Parish Girls Auxiliary Celebrate 62nd Annual Banquet The St. Lawrence Parish Girls Auxiliary (G.A.) celebrated its 62nd Annual Banquet on June 6, recognizing another year of service, leadership, and community involvement. Founded in 1964 by Mrs. Enid Smith, the group is believed to be the last remaining active Girls Auxiliary branch in Canada. Outreach remains a cornerstone of the organization, with members supporting initiatives such as Choices for Youth, the Guatemala Mission Team, the Pop-Up Pantry, Easter baskets for seniors, and other parish and community projects. This year, 18 junior and senior high school girls participated in the program. Banquet award recipients included: Alexis Churchill – Krista Lynn Memorial Award for Most Improved G.A. Girl Kaitlyn Smith – Chelsea Moss Memorial Award Kaylee Greeley – Donna Murphy Memorial Scholarship and the 2026 Ring of Honour 04 The banquet also featured entertainment by members and a presentation of the year’s theme, Newfoundland Folklore, exploring local traditions, sayings, superstitions, weather lore, and folk remedies. Guests received a commemorative booklet created by the girls highlighting their research and learning. Congratulations to all award recipients and members of the St. Lawrence Parish Girls Auxiliary for continuing a remarkable tradition of faith, service, and community spirit. Congratulations Alexis Churchill Krista Lynn Memorial Award for Most Improved G.A. Girl Kaitlyn Smith Chelsea Moss Memorial Award Kaylee Greeley Donna Murphy Memorial Scholarship and the 2026 Ring of Honour And, all the St. Lawrence Parish Girls Auxiliary on a successful year! At Killick Ecovillage, we’re working toward big goals like community and sustainability in practical, everyday ways. Sometimes that looks like growing food together, sharing a meal, or swapping recipes that make the most of local ingredients. Sarah’s lemon blueberry loaf is a favourite for gatherings, potlucks, and sharing with neighbours. It’s even better when the blueberries come straight from the garden or a nearby patch of wild ones right here in Portugal Cove–St. Philip’s! Ingredients 1.5 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoons salt 1/3 cups unsalted butter, melted 1 cups sugar 2 eggs 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest (from roughly 1 lemon) 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 cup milk (any kind – oat milk works) 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for coating berries) 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1/2 cup powdered sugar 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Community News Sarah’s Lemon Blueberry Loaf Steps 1 – Heat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9″x5″ loaf pan with parchment, or rub it with butter. 2- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt. Set aside. 3 – In a larger bowl, mix the unsalted butter (melted), sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, fresh lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice until well combined. A fork or whisk is fine no need for a mixer. 4 – Stir the flour mixture and milk into the wet bowl in two batches – some flour, some milk, then the rest of each. Stop as soon as it’s just combined. Don’t overwork it. 5 – Toss your blueberries with flour to coat – this keeps them from sinking. If using fresh-picked wild blueberries, a quick rinse first so they’re just slightly damp helps the flour stick. 6 – Gently fold the floured berries into the batter by hand. A few slow stirs is all it needs. 7 – Pour into your pan and bake for 55-60 minutes, until a toothpick or skewer poked into the centre comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 30 minutes, then move to a rack. 8 – To make the glaze, whisk together melted butter, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour over the cooled loaf and let it set for a few minutes before slicing. ick! h C , k c atchery i Ch nnual h a ’s ry ging enta m s, brin Cove Ele t succes a e re g Beachy a n t into th has bee xcitemen e d d n n initiative a a g May n learnin hing in tc a h ts s n k hands-o de chic June, stu m. With oults in p classroo . The y e fe li rk f new nd tu o a y s g jo n e li k th ts duc red in assistan have sha learning r d te n and staff s a fo lp teaching m to he ra g r ro p fo school’s on this connecti veloped e d d n a e v , y a h sibilit , respon empathy ity! commun the entire 05 Public Works and Safety Dog Etiquette Attention all furry friend owners in PCSP! Just a friendly reminder to keep all your furry companions on a leash in all areas of the Town, except the off-leash dog park in Voisey’s Brook Park. Remember to pick up all animal waste, and don’t leave it for others to find! Need a Dog Tag? Swing by the Town Hall office or Beachy Cove Animal Hospital to get yours today! To Report Off-Leash or Lost Animals Contact [email protected], or call 709-895-8000 ext. 228 ATV & Off-Road Vehicle Safety Adventure awaits, but safety comes first! Whatever adventure you choose, we kindly remind residents of the following: Safety First! Always wear your helmet, goggles, gloves, and protective clothing. It’s not just about looking cool – it’s about staying safe and being seen. Know Your Ride. Get to know your ATV or off-road vehicle inside and out before hitting the gas. Understanding it’s capabilities and limitations are key to a safe ride. Respect Private Property and the Environment. Please avoid travelling over private property, farmland, environmentally sensitive areas and Town Parks (both Rainbow Gully and Voisey’s Brook). Always follow posted signs and boundaries. Stay Sober. Never operate your ATV or off-road vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Your safety and the safety of others depend on clear judgement. Ride Responsibly. Follow speed limits on designated ATV trails, and riles of the off-road vehicles act. Be courteous to other riders, hikers, and wildlife you encounter along the way. To make a report to the RNC, please call 709-729-8000. Under Construction As the weather becomes warmer and the days get longer, residents are reminded that our Public Works crew will begin conducting maintenance operations throughout the town, including line painting, sweeping, and road upgrades. We kindly ask residents for patience as our crews complete work throughout the summer months. Updates will be posted regularly to our website and social media for any road closures or disruptions. For questions, please contact our Public Works Department at [email protected], or by calling 709-895-8000 ext. 228. 06 Library Hours June 30 June 30 to to September September 3 Tuesdays 9:00 am to 12:00 pm 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Wednesdays 9:00 am to 12:00 pm 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm Thursdays 9:00 am to 12:00 pm 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm Good to Know: Every Wednesday night, Mike will have an activity for families to come in and try! Join us beginning at 5:00 pm in the library for a fun science experiment or art craft! Summer Reading Challenge July 2 to August 28 From July 2 through August 28, challenge yourself to a reading adventure this summer with books all about family and friends. For every reading milestone you reach, your name will be entered in our grand prize draw! You can win additional entries by reading books from our theme list! Receive a free age appropriate book from the Town for every 5 books read. The full details will be released in June 2026 on our website and social media. Community Services Summer 2026 Summer 2026 Check out our website for library hours, and summer activities pcsp.ca/live-play/library pcsp.ca/live-play/library Canada Day Fireworks Y PARK L L U G W RAINBO JULY 1ST | 10:00PM | WEDNESDAY Visit pcsp.ca for viewing and parking map Save THE Date LL EVENTS A F 2026 Fall Fitness and Programming Registration September 2nd at 9:00 am via eServices. September 14th programs begin. National Seniors Day – October 1st Fall Family Festival – October 17th Trunk or Treat – October 23rd Guy Fawkes Night – November 5th Full details will be released on our website, pcsp.ca/live-play/fitness-classes/ in August. 07 Community Services S P Splash plash Pad ad g g n n i i n n e e p p O Rainbow Gully Park e e n n u u Monday-Sunday, 9:00 am to 8:00 pm J f f o o d eennd Rainbow Gully Park Monday-Sunday, 9:00 am to 8:00 pm Please pay Please pay attention attention to to user user guidelines guidelines Operating Information, Operating Information, please please visit visit

Facilities

Facilities

08 July Regular Public Council Meeting – July 15, 7:00 pm Committee of the Whole Meeting – July 2, 22, 5:30 pm August Regular Public Council Meeting – August 5, 26 7:00 pm Committee of the Whole Meeting – August 12, 5:30 pm September Regular Public Council Meeting – September 16, 7:00 pm Committee of the Whole Meeting – September 2, 23 5:30 pm Visit pcsp.ca/your-government/ for full details Town Council Schedule of Council Meetings Stay Engaged with Council Residents can access Council agenda packages online ahead of each meeting, offering a full look at upcoming and recent discussions, reports, and recommendations. After meetings, minutes are also posted so you can stay informed on decisions, updates, and key outcomes that impact our community. Looking for schedule changes or meeting updates? The Town website is your go-to source, with the most up-to-date information on Council and Committee of the Whole meeting dates, times, and any adjustments. It’s all part of staying informed, engaged, and connected to your community. Get in touch with Council Left to Right: Tanner Murphy, Dominic Lush, Maddox Tucker, Lyla Meehan, Henry Morgan, Clara Courish Find Council’s contact information on page 3 of The Tickle Newsletter Find the agenda packages and meeting minutes on our website here: https://pcsp.civicweb.net/Portal/ Questions? Contact the Town Clerk [email protected] (709) 895-8000 ext. 223 Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s Town Hall 1119 Thorburn Road, Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s | General email: [email protected] Summer Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Junior Junior COUNCIL COUNCIL In recognition of Municipal Awareness Week, the Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s was delighted to host the Grade 4 class from Beachy Cove Elementary! Our future leaders got a firsthand look at how local government works and learned about the democratic process by voting their classmates into a special Junior Council. The Grade 4 class elected Maddox Tucker as Mayor, and Councillors Lyla Meehan, Tanner Murphy, Dominic Lush, Henry Morgan, and Clara Courish. On May 13, the Junior Council joined us during our regular public council meeting to host their own meeting. On the agenda, was to discuss their year-end celebration! After a passionate debate, a vote was called. The ayes had it with a 4 to 1 majority, the Beachy Cove Elementary Grade 4 class are officially celebrating the end of the school year with a BBQ! Kudos to these fantastic future leaders of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s! And, thank you to Beachy Cove Elementary for being engaged, and continuing this tradition with us. 09 @townofpcsp Yoga is still strong on Mondays from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. It’s pay what you can which can include a donation to the Community Food Pantry. The pantry operates on a “Take what you need leave what you can” model. The first Tai Chi class was very successful with a full to capacity program stay Turned to our FB page and website for the next class. We have been granted Official Charitable status buy the Canadian Revenue Agency. AWH Group has managed to secure funding for 7 summer students who will start 6 July with guided hikes and staffing the community and area’s Visitors Information Center. Visitors Information Center’s Grand opening will be July 25, 2026. Watch our socials for information. ACE seeks to maintain, protect, and enhance the natural environment in PC-SP including ponds, rivers, streams, bogs and wetlands. Wetlands are places where land and water meet – including marshes, bogs, fens and swamps – and they are some of the hardestworking ecosystems on the planet! Clean Water Wildlife Protection Flood Control Coastal Surge Climate Change Critical Habitat Heritage and Culture Please check out ACE on Facebook, and follow for more information. @advisorycommitteeontheenvironment Community Groups and Events Lots of things happening at the site and all kinds of great news! ACE (Advisory Committee on the Environment) Rainbow 50+ Club Each Wednesday from June 24 to August 29 join the 50+Club from 7 to 9 PM in the PCSP Recreation Centre. Members and non-members are welcome! What’s happening? Weekly cards and Darts, 50/50 and Poke the Joker draws. Open house, July 8th 7 to 9 PM free evening of cards/Darts coffee and snacks. At a Date to be announced, the club will organize a bus outing which would include entertainment and a meal. Again, date to be announced We will be hosting a barbecue, followed by Darts and Cards. Membership is $10 yearly and five dollars weekly which entitles a member to enjoy weekly Darts or cards monthly dinner and dance. Non-members are welcome to attend these events for a fee. For more information, call : Margaret Tucker President 709-895-2251 Ethel Rees Vice-President 709-895-6526 11 Community Groups and Events The Mortgage Missus The Scarlet Dragon Society NL Most of us schedule annual physicals, visit the dentist, check our smoke detectors, renew insurance policies, and try to stay on top of our overall health — yet one of the largest financial responsibilities in our lives often gets ignored until renewal time arrives or stress forces us to deal with it. Our homes, finances, health, and peace of mind are all connected, and small proactive check-ins today can help prevent larger problems later. The Scarlet Dragon Society NL has operated in Portugal Cove-St Philips for 39 years. It is a nonprofit Martial Arts club currently located at Beachy Cove Elementary, meeting Thursdays between 6-8 pm. That’s why I created a free Annual Homeowner Checkup designed to help homeowners take a quick, pressure-free look at important areas that are easy to overlook throughout the year — things like mortgage renewal timing, financial confidence, credit awareness, budgeting habits, and future planning. Homeowners can also sign up for a free mortgage renewal reminder, so they have more time to review their options before important deadlines approach. The goal isn’t pressure or sales — it’s simply to help people feel a little more informed, organized, and prepared for the future. Complete your free Annual Homeowner Checkup here: https://form.jotform.com/Tonia_Mercer/annualhomeowner-checkup Wishing everyone a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable summer season ahead. Town Hall Summer Office Hours The Town of Portugal Cove-St. Philip’s will be operating on summer hours beginning Monday, June 8 until Friday, September 11. Operating Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30 am to 4:00 pm 12 Our Martial Arts background is Shaolin Kung Fu. Our focus now is to teach self defense techniques and discussions on awareness, when and how to use those techniques. We do not teach how to fight; we teach how to defend. We are currently running a free program called Scarlet Dragon Kids. This program is designed for, but not exclusively to parents/caregivers and child. However, adults or children can come alone, if they prefer. Since next year will be our 39th year, we will celebrate by offering all classes FREE. We hope to see you in our 2026-2027 year. We Want to rom You! Hear f We release The Tickle to our community of over 8,000 residents each quarter! This free newsletter includes three months of event calendars, feel-good community stories, news and updates from Town Hall, and more. Holidays Observed: Wednesday, July 1 – Canada Day Monday, July 13 – Orangemens Day Monday, August 3 – Civic Day Monday, September 7 – Labour Day We want to feature as many community groups, and updates from our residents as possible. If you’re interested in submitting, or not sure what to submit, contact Laura by emailing [email protected] For operating updates, please visit our Facebook page Our Fall edition will be released in early September 2026. [email protected] (709) 895-8000 ext. 268 @townofpcsp