Boomers and Beyond Jan:Feb 2026

EYOND B oomers

B and

January-February 2026 Issue 67 Celebrating the 55+ Community of Elgin County

Letter from the Editor Valentine’s Day. What an interest- ing day. For some, it sparks feel- ings of love and romance. For others…well, it’s the dreaded re- minder of being single, or it’s a glaring example of a commercial racket. But I think Valentine’s Day deserves a little more respect than we sometimes give it.

So, in the spirit of love for everyone, I’ve put together a list of ten non-traditional ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, because love shouldn’t come with a price tag, a rule book, or even a chocolate heart. Ten Non-Traditional Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day: • Host a “Galentine’s” or “Palentine’s” night with friends. • Take a spontaneous day trip or mini adventure. • Write a heartfelt letter or poem to someone you care about. • Volunteer together at a local charity or community event. • Cook a new recipe together, or for someone special. • Plan a movie marathon with favourite films or guilty pleasures. • Have a “memory night” looking through old photos and reminiscing. • Treat yourself to a self-care day, go to a spa, have a bubble bath, or take a long walk. • Share a random act of kindness with strangers or neighbours. • Learn something new together, a class, hobby, or fun workshop. Love isn’t just for February 14th; it’s for every day. So, whether you’re sharing your heart with a partner, your family, or your friends, make Valentine’s Day a celebration of love in all its wonderful forms. Here’s to love, laughter, and making memories, no matter how you define them.

Here’s why: love comes in many forms. It’s not just for spouses or significant others, it’s for kids, grandkids, friends, and even yourself. There’s never too much love in the world. And yes, for some, this day carries painful memories: a loved one lost, a heart once broken, or the familiar dread of ‘I’m alone this year’. But here’s the truth: you’re not alone. Even if Cupid hasn’t struck for you lately, you have people who care about you. Celebrate them. Celebrate yourself. For those of you with significant others, whether you’ve been together 50 years or are enjoying the thrills of a new relationship, don’t let Valentine’s Day go unnoticed. Rekindle the romance, create a memory, remind someone how special they are. Sure, flowers and chocolate may be pricier on February 14th, but love is priceless, and so are moments of joy. And let’s be honest, sometimes the best Valentine’s memories are the ones that break from tradition.

Stay connected and informed this winter! 2026 Council Meeting Schedule 2026 Garbage and Recycling Collection Calendar 2026 Municipal Budget Public Skating Schedules - including free skating thanks to local sponsors! Latest News & Upcoming Events – Don’t miss a thing in your community! Visit centralelgin.org for:

Short-Term Rental Licensing Do you operate a short-term rental in Central Elgin? As of January 1 , Short-Term Rental Accommodations must be licensed with the Municipality of Central Elgin. st

Visit www.centralelgin.org/STR to apply for a Short-Term Rental Licence. Our team is here to help you through the application process and answer any questions!

Municipal Office, 450 Sunset Dr.

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Page 2 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026

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Continual Living, Loving and Learning The Joy of Movement: Small Steps that Make a Big Difference by Tammy Bale, Director, Nurse Next Door St. Thomas

ENTERTAINMENT RESERVE YOUR SEATS

2026 SUMMER THEATRE SEASON

SOUNDTRACK 70 'S THE ULTIMATE Get Down Tonight!

INNER ELDER

Nurse Next Door

At Nurse Next Door, we believe aging should be celebrated. Every day, we see how small acts of movement can spark joy, boost confidence, and help seniors continue living life on their own terms. The truth is, movement isn’t about running marathons or lifting heavy weights – rather, it’s about choosing to stay engaged, one small step at a time.

SUGAR ROAD June 2 - June 6 Starring Leisa Way & The Wayward Wind Band

May 27 -May 30 By Michelle Thrush

As we age, our bodies na- turally change, but staying active is one of the most powerful ways to maintain in- dependence. Gentle move- ment improves balance, stre- ngthens muscles, supports

THE LONG WEEKEND

To advertise here contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com Most importantly, movement reminds us that aging is not about limits; it’s about living boldly. Every step is a chance to grow, explore, and enjoy more of what you love! At Nurse Next Door, we’re honoured to walk beside seniors as they stay active, stay connected, and continue to live Happier Aging every day! heart health, and keeps joints flexible. More importantly, it boosts mood and energy. A short walk, a few stretches before breakfast, or dancing to a favourite song can help release endorphins, the body’s natural ‘feel-good’ chemicals. It’s amazing how even five minutes of light activity can brighten your whole day. Movement is also a wonderful way to stay connected. Many of our clients enjoy walking groups, chair yoga, or simply strolling through the neighbourhood with a caregiver or loved one. These moments, shared, help reduce feelings of loneliness and create meaningful social ties. Staying active becomes more than exercise -- it becomes companionship, laughter, and a reminder that life is meant to be celebrated. One of the beautiful things about movement is that it’s completely customizable. Whether someone prefers gardening, swimming, tai chi, or stretching in a favourite armchair, there is a safe and enjoyable option for everyone. At Nurse Next Door, we tailor movement activities to each person’s abilities, preferences, and overall goals. We focus on ‘Yes, you can!’, finding the right level of challenge so seniors feel confident, capable, and in control. This aligns perfectly with our Happier Aging philosophy of care. The key is starting small. Begin with activities that feel fun and doable, celebrating each success, no matter how tiny it may seem. A few extra steps around the house, reaching up to open cupboards, or standing to fold laundry can all count as meaningful movement. These simple actions add up and help maintain strength and coordination leading to increased independence.

June 10 - July 4 By Norm Foster

July 8 - July 25 By Kristen Da Silva

SHIP TO SHORE

DEADLY MEMORIES

WORLD PREMIERE

August 19 - September 5 By Norm Foster

July 29 - August 15 By Steven Gallagher

November 8 2pm & 7:30pm

Saturday February 14 2pm & 7:30pm DOLLY MEETS ELVIS

PortStanley FestivalTheatre

www.psft.ca 519-782-4353

Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 3

Volunteer of the Month, Pat Lepischak Sponsored by Royal Oak by Peri Hayes

Local volunteer, Pat Lepischak, is outspoken about her lifelong appreciation for community service. She was a Girl Guide prior to becoming a leader over 50 years ago. “I see it as a sisterhood. I think this is a great and empowering program for girls.” Participating in weekly meetings, Pat also dedicates time to her financial responsibilities as Treasurer. “I’ve gained a lot from this experience, and recognize my own personal growth. I’ve got a really good team. I have learned how to work on a committee, while having fun and building connections. Giving back and making your community a better place is a rewarding experience.” Girl Guides progress from Sparks, to Embers (formerly ‘Brownies’), Guides, Pathfinders and Rangers, before becoming Adult Leaders. This female-based organization curates an embracing space for girls to develop a variety of skills and to find their own voice. Debuting in St. Catharines in 1910, this Canada-wide program is customizable and continuously evolving. Pat highlights the ways in which Girl Guides strives to create experiences and open girls’ minds to local opportunities: visiting the Elevated Park, Heritage Centre, nursing homes, St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre and more. “It is great watching them learn and grow skills.” Pat fondly recounts a core memory of roasting s’mores over the fire, as she says with a smile, “I, hopefully, am making a difference for these girls.” Surrounding women of the future with inspiration and support, cultivating the girls’ growth is evidently at the centre of their adaptable programming. Girl Guides operates throughout the school year, facilitating valuable experiences which can be added to a portfolio or included on a resumé. Pat proceeds to express her immense gratitude for their community partnerships, including Harvest Hands.

Aspiring Girl Guides ranging from 5 to 18 years of age must register through their website, though there is a wait list due to a demand for volunteers. With that said, individuals who are curious about these volunteer opportunities are invited to explore areas of interest. Before assuming a leadership role, there is an interview process and police check required -- which is covered by the organization. Looking forward to continued growth in the Girl Guides community, Pat assures that there is support for new leaders and an undeniable teamwork mentality. Visit girlguides.ca and guidesontario.org/web for further information, as well as to access the volunteer application process. Pat concludes by offering the following community service advice: “Any kind of volunteering can be fulfilling if it is what you want to do. Find what best suits you.”

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Love Your Feet by Pam, Supportive Insoles by Peri Hayes With her admirable ambition and background in healthcare, Pam MacDonald debuted the local Love Your Feet by Pam in 2023. She thereafter opened her physical location of 378 Talbot Street, Suite #7/8 – which is accessible through the south parking lot. Pam is a Registered Practical Nurse, trained as a Podortho Foot Specialist and with psychiatric nursing experience. Believing that feet are the foundation, Pam recognized the significance of operating an array of foot care services in the community. While considering local opportunities for brightening your 2026, Love Your Feet by Pam offers resources to support enhanced comfort and health through your feet. As Pam highlights, “Good hydration, as well as properly fitting footwear is beneficial. So many of us jam our feet into our shoes and boots. Unfortunately, we start as kids cramming our feet into shoes that are fashionable and not necessarily supportive. If your shoes are not an appropriate fit, this can lead to bunions, callus, ingrown nails and overlapping or underlapping toes. This result is because the footwear has not been supportive or ‘roomy’ enough. Footwear is very important.” Pam proceeds to note that there are also factors to be mindful about for those living with diabetes. Most recently, Pam began selling insoles — available in various sizes — which offer arch and cushion support to remedy certain foot conditions. Pam shares that she, herself, wears the insoles to ensure that this product is effective and applicable to her appreciated customers. “If I don’t have them in stock, there is an option to order them online,” Pam assures. “I will include a coupon code for ordering directly from the place where I source them, and can typically have them arrive within a week.” Pam emphasizes that she is thrilled to advise those seeking direction on their foot health journey. As Love Your Feet by Pam is appointment-based, Pam welcomes clients to schedule a consultation for discussing individual needs and building a curated plan of action.

Visit the loveyourfeetbypam.com website for online book- ing and further information. Phone Pam at 226-236-1810 to connect, and kindly leave a voicemail if she is with a client at the time of your call.

The Board Members of Christmas Care would like to extend a HUGE THANK YOU to our volunteers, our corporate donors, our individual donors, the City of St. Thomas, Elgin Centre, Ardent Industries (Steelway Building Systems), Jackpot Time, McDougall Energy (Formerly Dowler-Karn Fuels), local Emergency Services, area schools, area places of worship, area service clubs, our individual and anonymous donors, ETC., ETC., ETC. A special shout out to all the local businesses that gave their time, talent or treasure to help with providing food and toys and delivering packages this year. Some of our funding has come from the Elgin-St Thomas Community Foundation, and we are most appreciative of all our donors. May you all have a Prosperous and Happy 2026 from all of us at Christmas Care.

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 5

Staying Comfortable at Home: Thoughtful Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades for Easier Everyday Living When it comes to creating a home that supports long-term comfort and independence, the kitchen and bathroom are often the best places to start. These are the rooms we use the most, and as our needs evolve, the ones that can work either with us or against us. To explore practical, stylish ways homeowners can update these spaces, I spoke with Tanya Davey, Co-Owner and President of Davey & Davey Cabinetry. After years of helping clients reimagine their kitchens and bathrooms, Tanya has a clear understanding of which upgrades make the biggest difference. Davey & Davey is a father-and-daughter-owned business based in West Lorne. They offer both custom and semi-custom cabinetry, as well as refacing, refinishing, and reconfiguring existing cabinets. Because they work with everything from brand-new layouts to small retrofits, they see firsthand how small changes can improve everyday function. One of the biggest trends Tanya sees, especially among homeowners planning ahead, is the shift toward drawers in base cabinets. “Drawers are easier to access because you’re no longer getting on your knees to find things at the back,” she explains. Roll-outs, pull-outs, and easy-to-grip hardware are also growing in popularity. These options keep items within reach, reduce strain, and make better use of every inch of storage space.

For those updating an existing kitchen, Tanya says the most effective upgrades don’t require a full renovation. Replacing base cabinet doors with drawers delivers both convenience and accessibility. Keeping the current cabinet fronts, but adding roll-outs behind the doors, brings the same benefits without the cost of a full rebuild. Lazy Susans, whether in lower corners or wall cabinets,

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Page 6 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026

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are another simple way to improve access and reduce awkward twisting or reaching. Even more thoughtful adjustments can be made depending on individual mobility needs. Tanya notes that base cabinets can often be modified to allow wheelchair access, creating a more comfortable and workable cooking area without changing the entire kitchen footprint. Many of the most impactful upgrades help reduce bending, reaching, and lifting. One popular example is a lift-up shelf device for heavy small appliances like stand mixers, an easy way to store them out of sight while avoiding the strain of lifting. Drawers and roll-outs play a major role here as well, eliminating the need to reach deep into cupboards. Lighting is another element homeowners sometimes overlook, yet it can dramatically improve safety and comfort. Under-cabinet lighting brightens work surfaces, which is especially helpful for anyone with vision challenges. Toe-kick lighting provides subtle illumination along the floor, ideal for navigating the kitchen at night. Bathrooms offer many of the same opportunities for thoughtful upgrades. Tanya often recommends crea- ting open space beneath the sink to accommodate a wheelchair, ensuring the layout remains functional for years to come. Drawers are also a smart choice in bathroom vanities, particularly in tight spaces where it can be difficult to dig around inside cupboards. These solutions blend seamlessly into modern bathroom designs.

Balancing accessibility with style is something Davey & Davey excels at. “Most accessible items are hidden behind doors or drawers,” Tanya says, which means homeowners don’t have to sacrifice aesthetics. With thousands of hardware options available, it’s easy to choose knobs and pulls that enhance both the look and usability of the space. For homeowners working within a budget, Tanya suggests starting with three cost-effective upgrades: new hardware, roll-outs in existing base cabinets, and pull-out accessories. These changes offer immediate improvements in comfort and function, without requiring a full remodel. Thoughtful, well-planned updates in the kitchen and bathroom can make daily tasks easier, reduce strain, and ensure that your home evolves with you. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or making a few smart adjustments, focusing on accessibility and convenience will pay dividends for years to come.

Briwood has a large selection of local products and produce to help get you on your way to a healthier New Year – New You! Healthy eating starts local!

519-633-9691 1030 Talbot Street St. Thomas Mon – Fri 8am 8pm Weekends 8am - 6pm www.briwoodfarmmarket.com

Healthy eating includes fresh local meats.

Briwood also has a great selection of pet foods as well as wild bird seed.

Fresh Local Chicken, Beef and Pork Freshness, Quality, Satisfaction and Ultimate Customer Service...always.

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 7

More Than a Facility: How the St. Thomas Seniors’ Recreation Centre Nurtures Body, Mind and Community by Peri Hayes Angela Ostojic, Executive Director at the St. Thomas Seniors’ Recreation Centre, delightedly discusses the various opportunities facilitated in this inviting space. With remaining active being beneficial for the body, mind and soul, Angela enthusiastically highlights, “Our Seniors’ Centre offers over 40 programs that provide physical, social and volunteer opportunities -- which all enhance one another. Through fitness classes, social groups and volunteer roles, participants experience improved health, stronger social connections and a deeper sense of purpose. Each area supports the others: physical activities encourage social engagement; social programs build confidence to stay active; and volunteer opportunities foster belonging and well-being.” Proud to be an instructor for a selection of their fitness classes, Angela enthuses, “Everyone is working on their wellness.” As she highlights in particular, their chair programs are a valuable resource for members who are unsure about their capabilities or are experiencing mobility complications. Examples of this programming include Chair Tai Chi, Chair Yoga and beyond. Asked what personally excites Angela about cultivating these experiences, she voices, “I am fortunate enough MEDIA GROUP 240 Wyecroft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 1 866 993-0600 drmg.com MEDIA GROUP t Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 600 drmg.com AD SAVE DIRECT RESPONSE DIRECT RESPONSE

FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6”h to be here every day, teaching some of the classes and being able to go through their fitness journey with them. To see individuals set goals and progress through the different classes and exercises is rewarding. It is amazing to see skill sets develop, and to watch people perhaps surprise themselves through practicing karate or learning the ukulele for the first time in their lives. Sometimes people don’t know what to expect and then they leave pleased about how they feel afterward, wanting to learn more. The sense of community that happens here on a daily basis is special. People have been socially isolated and upon joining a program, they are met with a new group of friends. Some individuals will visit the Centre for lunch as their way of getting out for the day. In between programs, these friends even create experiences outside of the Centre.” PROOF DATE: Feb 20, 2024 TROSUN-0324-MAR-LNE-IBC-01 JAN FEB MAR OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6”h PROOF DATE: Feb 20, 2024 PROOF #: TROSUN-0324-MAR-LNE-IBC-01 JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP

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Programs vary from Beginner to Intermediate and Advanced. Options include Beginner Line Dancing, Drum Fit Classes, Get Strong with Weights and much more. Meanwhile, social programs include book club, cards, darts, shuffleboard, writing and so forth. This wide range of programming is available year-round, with membership registration obtainable at the Centre. Otherwise, daily guest passes are an alternative option.

Moreover, Angela shares that volunteer opportunities are available in cleaning and convening programs, the kitchen and office, as well as with supporting special events. As she assures about their venue, “The Centre is fully accessible with ample parking, being a large gym/hall and five rooms to accommodate various programs. We provide most supplies and equipment for fitness classes. Our Centre is a warm, inclusive community where people come together at different stages of their personal journey — some building on years of experience, others starting out — all supporting, inspiring and lifting each other up.” “Seniors want to be involved and meet people,” Angela joyfully concludes. “When they do, it is life-changing. Our seniors are so thankful for these opportunities, for our staff and for their friends.” To explore their calendar and class schedule, visit stthomasseniorscentre.com. Their physical newsletter is available at the Centre, 225 Chestnut Street, as well as online through the aforementioned website. Those seeking further information are welcome to phone the Centre at 519-633-2850, or email info@stthomasseniorscentre.com.

Make this Valentine’s Day Bold, Vibrant and Full of Love

175 Sunset Drive • (519) 631-3600 • www.fellowfernleaflowers.com Fellows Fernlea Flowers Flowers St. Thomas’ local florist since 1995

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 9

The party’s over, it’s time to call it a day, Hello January! by Liz Gilroy, Port Stanley Festival Theatre Artistic Director All the gifts, meals, toasts, gatherings, family get-to- gethers and parties are past us, and now, what do we do? January does offer us a clean slate -- anything can happen in 2026; change is on the horizon, or the possibility for change. Perhaps, gentle reader, you have made some resolutions, or one, or none, but I think most of us strive to ‘upgrade’ our lives in some way. Back in September, I promised myself that I would get back to the gym/pool for 30 minutes five to seven times a week, and one of my resolutions is to continue to keep that promise. A friend of mine is striving to make 2026 a year of challenges, getting out of her comfort zone and trying new experiences. Well, here at Port Stanley Festival Theatre (PSFT), we are offering the opportunity to do just that. Put yourself out there and join us on January 29th at 7:30 pm for Port Stanley’s Got Stars , our board fundraiser. It’s a talent show, with a twist. We’ll have six performers singing their hearts out impersonating their favourite superstars and you, the audience, get to be the judge. There’ll be prizes for our top three competitors and giveaways all night long for the audience. Support your superstars of tomorrow; the incredible talent is local, and word on the street is that Janis Joplin, David Lee Roth, and Christina Aguilera might make an appearance. Don’t miss

Port Stanley’s Got Stars! Tickets are available at our box office, or if YOU want to be the next superstar, drop by the theatre and show us what you got! On Valentine’s Day, Satur- day, February 14th, two more superstars will be gracing our stage: Dolly Parton and Elvis in Blue Suede And Rhinestones . Back in the late 70s, accor-

ding to rock and roll folklore, Elvis wanted to record I Will Always Love You , but his manager, The Colonel, wanted half of the song rights as part of the deal. Dolly said no; she just knew it was the right thing to do, even though she found it tough to say no to the King. But what if they had collaborated: Dolly and Elvis together giving a legendary performance. For one night only! Well, you can experience that right here at PSFT on Valentine’s Day at 2 pm or at 7:30 pm. Dolly and Elvis sing all their hits with a fantastic live band and take us on a musical journey where the legends let loose. Why not experience the joy of live theatre all year long! Summer 2026 awaits, and our Season Subscriptions are available now for a five or six-show series.

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The Life List, Lisa McIntosh by Peri Hayes What is a Life List aspiration that you have accomplished? “My career,” Lisa beams. As an adopted child, Lisa reveals having grown up in an environment where caring for people was part of her upbringing and generated lasting inspiration. “I cared for my grandmother, and went on to pursue my career in nursing.” How was your experience working toward this goal? While carrying forward the caregiving legacy in her family, Lisa also dedicated time to her role as Director of Children’s Ministry for 10 years. “I was at a point of putting my nursing licence on hold when I connected with Tammy of Nurse Next Door.” Lisa outlines the ways in which her beliefs align with this company, creating a customized care plan suited to each individual and with focus on empowering seniors: “Honouring their autonomy is incredibly important. Working in this space reignited my passion.” What does this particular achievement mean to you? “I am proud of what I have done. You give so much of yourself in this field. I feel with my clients, and I cry with them -- that is me, that is who I am.” In this current stage of your life, what advice do you have to offer? “Life is not about the paycheque, or being in a rush -- it’s about genuine care and making a positive difference. As my children grow in their careers, I encourage them to let people know their care and see them for who they are. For people in this field, it is valuable to listen to the perspectives of others and to picture themselves in their clients’ place.” Have your Life List ambitions shifted throughout your life? “I am happy with my career. My work has brought me a lot of joy through forming connections, learning patience and following my great passion to care for others. As my life has evolved, care has always been at the centre.”

Boomers and Beyond Elgin Jan-Feb 2026 cover On a cold winter’s eve, on a train bound for nowhere.. Our Train sculpture on Sunset lit up for the holidays! Photo by Geoff Rae

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 11

From Over the Hill: So, New Year? by Peter Bloch-Hansen

Francisco), Viet Nam, Singapore, India, Nepal, Tibet, Iran, Pakistan, Morocco, Israel, Mongolia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and many more. Wait, what? You say: everybody uses the January 1 calendar! Yes, because it’s practical for banking, business, international trade and scientific research papers (and birthdays). But the calendar is cultural as well as practical. So, is the date just arbitrary? Well, it is: blame Numa Pompilius. But, how could it not be? His calendar was tied to the moon cycles, which made for problems it took till Pope Gregory to sort out. We could use the sun cycle, say, the Spring Equinox, which has a certain logic as a place to begin, but not in the southern hemisphere, where it’s then Autumn. What a conundrum! Could the UN pick a date that would satisfy everyone? Let’s keep politicians out of it. Besides, everyone is pretty happy with the one we use. It’s not like changing a provincial license plate; imagine the confusion, the high rate of suicide among baffled and frustrated historians and accountants. So, the date must be arbitrary. Also, as the above edited list shows, there is no global ‘Common Era’ in the cultures that people actually live in and celebrate, which is why I used BC and AD, which are factual and not a hypocritical slurring of the facts to keep people from having their feelings hurt. Or maybe it’s just that I’m old? You decide.

So, why do we mark the beginning of our calendar year as January 1? Yup: it’s the Romans (busy people, really). The word calendar descends from their word calends, which was the first day

of the month – like the ides, which correlates to the fifteenth day – alas, poor Caesar; accounts and debts were settled on the calends, so a calendar was a book for recording those debts. The financial significance of this still applies: see below. As near as historians can tell, in the 8th century BC, the Etruscan king, Numa Pompilius, then ruling Rome, replaced March with January as the first month, in honour of Janus, their god of beginnings and endings, though January 1 only became official in Rome in 153 BC. (After Rome’s fall, some conquered areas reverted to older dates in March or adopted December 25. March 25th applied in Britain and American colonies till 1758.) In 45/46 BC, Julius Caesar gave Rome the January 1 Julian calendar, which didn’t account for leap year. So, in 1582 AD, Pope Gregory XII set a January 1 new calendar which did. It’s still pretty much the one used now. But not everywhere: traditional New Year’s are celebrated in many countries, such as China (and famously, in San

Page 12 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026

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Snow Day!

18 Big winter jacket 21 Weather warning type 22 Skier’s terrain 23 Short daytime light span 26 Winter sock material Down 1 Red winter bird 2 Snow pile created by plows 7 Childhood hill slider)

9 Cold cheeks hue 10 Heavy snowfall sound 12 Cozy winter blanket 14 Cozy foot warmers 16 Snowman’s nose 17 First sign of snowfall 19 Winter headwear 20 Storm-day school cancellation 24 Snow-shifting tool 25 Street-clearing vehicle

Across 3 Hot drink after shovelling 4 Pond-top playground 5 Frozen rain 6 Puffy hand coverings 8 Hood trim on a parka 10 Frozen rain 11 Sidewalk scatter 13 Fireplace Fuel 15 Cold wind measurement

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 13

Nothing, zero, nada is the answer by Terry Carroll One of my writing friends/competitors is the mother of a son who may become the next Bertrand Russell, the Brit who co- founded analytic philosophy and co- authored Principia Mathematica with Al- fred North Whitehead. Currently in Grade

A straight-and-true stretch of pavement on the Graham Road, aka Highway 76, had been marked off by some devil to tempt me. One night, I drove the Ford truck to this improvised drag strip and ran it through the gears. No one else was with me. There was no timer. Why did my almost seventeen-year-old mind think the speed of a cattle truck in a quarter mile mattered? Possibly, it had something to do with the biggest preoccupation of a teenage boy in West Elgin, right up there with getting a girl from town to say ‘Yes’ … the desire to be cool in front of other guys standing around doing nothing. That mattered. But, as it turned out, not nearly as much as the wind. I was heading south into a gale blowing up from Lake Erie. As I approached the finish line, the plywood top lifted and floated as awkwardly and gracefully as a great blue heron toward a ditch. The next day, in the cattle barn when my dad asked me what had happened, a couple of steers lowed in sympathy with my plight. I didn’t exactly lie. I flitted like a butterfly above the truth. I said it was the wind. He didn’t buy it. Follow-up questions ensued. But I had years of experience, dating back to Grade Four. To dummy up successfully (a) stay the course, (b) be consistent, and (c) confess the square root of nothing. For a master class lesson in the art of saying nothing, zero, nada, while not actually lying, email terry@carrollgroup.ca for rates. Discounts available to elementary school students.

Four, this wunderkind multiplies big numbers in his head. He’ll start with, say, 423, multiply it by 2, multiply that answer by 2, the result by 3, and that number by 3, and come up with the right answer without pen, paper or calculator. As a side note, with his dark shock of hair and black-rimmed glasses, he looks ready for Trinity College, Cambridge when he turns sixteen, or equally prepared to audition for a Harry Potter role. However, in other ways, he’s a regular Grade Four kid. When he comes home from school, and his curious, friend- ly, caring mother asks him what happened today, he answers with the equivalent of ‘Zero’. Now, it’s possible he mumbles this while contemplating mathematics before zero was a number. But I suspect something else is at work — a growing boy’s natural reticence to disclose, an inclination that lasts well beyond the fourth grade. In 1967, my father owned a three-quarter-ton Ford truck with a V-8 engine and a four-on-the-floor shifter that started in bull low. He had racks built for the sides, a gate for the back and a plywood top. All for hauling a few steers to and from auction sales. Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com 519-495-7177 Copy Editor: Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome. Please email hometown@villagerpublications.com. We look forward to hearing from you. oomers oomers B and B EYOND YOUR COMMUNITY FUNERAL, CELEBRATION AND CREMATION CENTRE

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Page 14 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026

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BADDA BOOM! by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail com

It’s 2026! So here we are again at the top of a new January. How often do we hear people herald the notion that the new year will change their circumstances, fortunes, or fate? It’s heartbreaking or hilarious, depending on one’s disposition. Magical

thinking is the belief that one’s thoughts, words, or deeds can directly influence external events (or vice versa) without a logical link between the two. Don’t dismiss those ‘New Year’s Resolution’ resolves committed to flipping the switch on New Year’s Eve to become their ideal selves; despite both optimism and determination, neither can guarantee their aspirations. That’s not to say there isn’t a way to achieve certain success, but first, a reality check. Let’s revisit the concept of raison d’etre , meaning ‘reason for being’, which inspires the question: What brings you joy? Unlike happiness (the pursuit of which is inscribed in the American Constitution), joy is not linked to external circumstances; it is described as a deeper state of contentment that, thankfully, can exist regardless of what’s happening in the world. Given that, let’s pursue the reset required to generate genuine joy. Health is wealth, and SimplyLiving suggests that healthy longevity is supported by eight daily self-care habits: 1. Drink 40 ounces of water; 2. Take in 10 minutes of natural light upon awakening; 3. Get social at least three times a week; 4. Practice balance exercises; 5. Eat protein-rich foods at every meal; 6. Practice deep breathing for five minutes; 7. Maintain a regular sleep schedule; 8. I lost the last one listed, but make it your own; mine is to take a daily walk. What’s my point? If joy is internally generated, self-care is critical to achieving it. Knowing what brings us joy cannot be fully answered until we truly know ourselves. It really goes beyond contentment and scores at fulfillment. What do you enjoy doing? What are you good at doing? What matters the most to you? How would you most enjoy doing what matters? Chris Brogan, a thought leader and mentor of mine, approaches the new year with ‘My Three Words’ that govern what he does, for whom and why he does it. Chris explains that the three words you choose are there to guide your decisions in the new year. According to Brogan, “The words should point to who you intend to be, what you want to focus on, and how you want to proceed in the year ahead.” It’s a ‘becoming’ statement. It’s transformational but without setting us up for failure. As Albert Einstein once opined, “When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change.” Badda Bing! Happy New Year!

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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • Jan-Feb 2026 Page 15

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