Event Coordinator with over 30 years of extensive experience in sustainable tourism and comprehensive event management. As a dedicated professional, I have honed my skills to ensure that each event not only meets organizational objectives but also promotes environmental and social responsibility. In addition, I proudly serve as the Committee Chair and Director of the Non-Profit Port Stanley Calipso Festival, where I lead initiatives to create vibrant community experiences while highlighting the importance of sustainability in our celebrations. My family roots trace back to 1830, featuring an uninterrupted lineage of sailors and fishermen, inspiring me to offer exclusive Private Yacht Charter Experiences with the Legends of Lake Erie.
Maria Valentino Maklakova is the Marketing and Digital Media Manager for Calipso Festival, shaping its voice, visuals, and online presence.
Through compelling storytelling, vibrant design, and creative campaigns, she brings the spirit of Calipso to life, long before the first boat sails or the music begins. Maria captures the festival’s colour, movement, and joy across social media, the website, photo/video production, and promotions.
As a painter inspired by water and coastal landscapes, Maria feels a deep connection to Calipso’s beach-town setting. She sees festivals as essential spaces for people to gather, celebrate, and belong, even if just for a few days each year.
I am a retired financial services professional with 33 years of experience in planning, analysis, and strategic oversight. Throughout my career, I applied strong project management principles — emphasizing organization, risk management, and clear communication — to deliver consistent, long-term results.
Now living in Port Stanley, I enjoy retirement pursuing my passion for photography and drawing on my horticultural background, while staying connected to the community and the relationships built over a rewarding career grounded in trust and integrity.
Jenna is a vital figure in the Port Stanley community and the creative force behind the Calipso Mermaids. Since the festival’s revival, she has been a dedicated committee member, helping bring new life and energy to this beloved summer event.
As the founder of the iconic “Merpod,” Jenna introduced one of Calipso’s most recognizable and loved experiences. She also leads Mermaid Cove at Little Beach, transforming the shoreline into a magical, family-friendly space filled with storytelling, connection, and “mermagic.”
Through her leadership and ability to bring people together, Jenna plays a key role in creating a vibrant, welcoming festival where unforgettable memories are made for visitors of all ages.
Karen & Steve Smith are the dedicated captains behind the CALIPSO Boat Parade, one of Port Stanley’s most cherished marine traditions. Since the festival’s revival, the duo has served as the lead organizers, transforming the harbor into a vibrant floating spectacle every Civic Holiday weekend.
With a deep love for the local boating community, Karen and Steve coordinate everything from registration to the final procession, ensuring that the "parade of lights and color" remains a highlight for spectators lining the pier. Their passion for the water and commitment to the committee have been instrumental in making the parade a beloved marine landmark of the festival.
With over a decade of experience in wildlife and creative photography, Gianni Grohl Martino brings a thoughtful eye and natural storytelling to Calipso Festival. His work captures not just moments, but the feeling behind them — from quiet shoreline scenes to the vibrant energy of the celebration.
Beyond the lens, Gianni is passionate about giving back, volunteering at the local animal shelter and looking forward to becoming even more involved in the Port Stanley community he loves.
At Calipso, he helps preserve the magic of the festival — turning fleeting moments into lasting memories.
Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley is Youth Activities Lead & Kidz Zone Coordinator
The heartbeat of the festival’s family experience, the Kiwanis Club of Port Stanley brings a legacy of "serving the children of the world" directly to our waterfront. We are incredibly grateful to our Kiwanis representative for overseeing the high-energy Kidz Zone, a festival favorite that ensures every young visitor leaves with a smile. Thanks to their dedication and the club’s generous sponsorship, the Kidz Zone remains a place of pure joy, offering Free Games and Prizes throughout the weekend. Their commitment to fostering a fun, inclusive environment for our youngest "Calipso friends" is a cornerstone of our community spirit
Optimist Club of Port Stanley is Youth Events & Community Engagement Lead
True to their mission of "Bringing Out the Best in Youth," the Optimist Club of Port Stanley is the driving force behind many of Calipso’s most interactive traditions. Our Optimist representative coordinates the logistical magic behind the Bike Rodeo, the creative chaos of the Family Sandcastle Contest, and the village-wide excitement of the Treasure Hunt. Their tireless work ensures that families have meaningful, active ways to engage with the festival and explore our beautiful village. We thank the Optimist Club for their unwavering "Optimism" and for creating the memories that local families cherish for a lifetime.
Since moving to Canada three years ago, Beena Thomas has enjoyed discovering the many ways communities come together to celebrate. Her work in digital marketing and creative projects has given her the chance to support those moments, helping organizations share their stories, reach new audiences, and build excitement around events that bring people together.
As a part of Calipso, Beena helps manage the website and online promotions to keep the momentum going.
Some of her favorite memories are tied to warm summer days and the simple joy of dipping her toes in sand. She believes being involved in Calipso is a meaningful way to combine her creative pursuits with her passion for community and celebration.
