Hometown St. Thomas July-August 2024 Issue 62
Experience the Best of Summer Entertainment! 2024 SUMMER THEATRE
Letter from the Editor
This month, I had the privilege of interviewing four graduating stu- dents, one from each of our high schools. All four were friendly, in- telligent and engaging; they all had inherent leadership qualities and were active within their school. While they all had individual talents and goals, each student seemed
JULY 17 - AUGUST 3
to be about making the world around them better. After each interview, I left feeling good about the hands our future is in. Speaking of outstanding young ladies, this month we have an exciting guest columnist, Kali Baker of the 16U St. Thomas Express Bullets. In April, my booth at the St. Thomas Home Show stood across from their table, where they were raising money for nationals. I gave them an opportunity to write and share their experiences as a team at nationals – a very exciting read. As usual, our community is filled with fun events all summer. Just a few to note. On July 10th comes the Seniors Picnic in Pinafore Park. If you have not been before, make sure you make it out this year to the event’s 25th Anniversary. On my summer bucket list, I would also include the several shows running throughout the summer at the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. I have my tickets and am excited to see Hurry Hard and Bigfoot. On Saturday, July 13th, head downtown for St. Thomas’ annual Nostalgia Nights event. So much more than just a car show, it features live music, tons of vendors and, of course, the historic downtown. The summer also brings many opportunities to explore our region and support local farmers and vendors through our various markets. We have the historic Horton Market (10 Manitoba St, St Thomas), which runs every Saturday from 8 am to 12 noon and now offers Wednesday markets from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm; the Wildflowers Market (42338 Fruit Ridge Line, St Thomas), running each Friday from 4 pm to 8 pm; the Old Imperial Market (516 John St. N., Aylmer) on Saturdays from 8 am to 3 pm; the Dutton Farmers Market (1 Scotland St., Dutton) operating every Sunday from 10 am to 2 pm. I am a huge fan of markets; not only do I have an opportunity to save a little money buying directly from the farmer, but I am also supporting my local community. To me, that is what these markets represent – community. I am such a regular at one market that what could take me five minutes usually takes an hour as I stop and chat with friends! Just a reminder: we do not publish in August, so the next issue of Hometown St. Thomas will be in September. But in the meantime, I hope to see you at some of these amazing events! I wish you all an amazing and safe summer. Geoff
By Kristen Da Silva
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Page 2 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
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A Survivor’s Journey to Recovery On May 16th, 2023, Paige Havell, a vibrant 25-year-old (now), experienced a life-altering event as the victim of a violent crime. Now paralyzed from the chest down, Paige is navigating the immense challenges of her new reality. Despite the absence of a conviction for her attacker, Paige remains focused on her recovery and on adjusting to her new life at Henley Place, a long-term care (LTC) facility in North London. “I met this guy online, and it turns out he was prone to violence. He shot me in the back twice when I asked him to leave, and he also shot and killed my dog,” Paige shares. This horrific incident has drastically changed her life. “I can no longer do the simple things like walk, shower myself, change my clothes, or go to the bathroom. I am also just not able to be comfortable.” Henley Place, where Paige now resides, is a 190-bed facility with only about three residents under the age of 80. The significant age gap presents unique social challenges for her. “There’s a really big age gap. It is a struggle, but those I talk with here are very friendly,” Paige says, highlighting her isolation from her peers. Paige’s current situation is dire. She is using a rental wheelchair that does not meet her needs, making daily life even more difficult. Paige’s family has set up a GoFundMe page to raise funds for essential tools and equipment that would significantly improve her quality of life. These include a $26,000 motorized wheelchair suited to her needs, for which she needs to contribute $6,000, a lateral rotation bed to prevent bedsores, a commode, and a lift to help her get in and out of bed. “We need your help so that Paige can regain some quality of life,” implores Bob Wiens, Paige’s grandfather. The costs associated with her care and needs are substantial, and the family is struggling to meet them. Paige has also expressed a desire to move into an accessible apartment that is affordable, as her current LTC facility is far from her home in St. Thomas. As a victim of violent crime, Paige received a one-time payment of $1,000 and an offer of counselling from the government. However, this assistance falls short of what she needs to adapt to her new life. Without a wheelchair-accessible vehicle, trips back to St. Thomas cost $170.00 each time, adding to the financial burden. A fundraiser roast beef supper was held on June 7th at the Salvation Army, but more is needed. “I just want to make it more comfortable to live, to make my space more accessible,”
Paige explains. Despite her circumstances, she aspires to get her GED and eventually, to go to college, showing her determination to build a fulfilling future. Bob recalls the harrowing night when Paige was shot. “The doctors said she had died three times when she was in the operating room. But she lived through it. So, there’s a reason she’s here.” To help Paige regain some quality of life, please consider contributing to her GoFundMe campaign (Paige’s Healing Journey). Every donation brings her closer to obtaining the equipment and support she needs to live more comfortably and independently.
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Game, Set, Match with the Pinafore Tennis Club
The Pinafore Tennis Club (PTC), established in 2018, is helping to bring tennis back to Pinafore Park (95 Elm St.). This premier public facility, located in the park, boasts eight tennis courts and eight pickleball courts, earning a reputation as one of the top venues in the province. Marc Sopoco, President of PTC, reflects on the club’s roots. “There actually always was a tennis club in the past,” Marc notes, referring to the St. Thomas Tennis Association (STTA) founded in the 1970s. “The revitalization of Pinafore Park, including the courts, was a long-term plan overseen by Ross Tucker, then head of the Parks and Rec. Department. It was always in their 10-year plan to redo the courts. The addition of pickleball courts has been a welcome enhancement, attracting a diverse range of players.” The PTC’s strong relationship with the city ensures dedicated days and times for club leagues and special events. In partnership with the Ontario Tennis Association, the club hosts six provincial tournaments annually, some of which are professional-level. Marc is particularly proud that their club drew local talent, Kayla Cross of London, a top-10 Canadian player and two-time Junior Grand Slam finalist, who graced the opening event on May 26th. Membership at PTC is remarkably affordable, with adult memberships at $40 and family memberships at $95. “We offer free tennis balls, so you don’t even have to bring your own,” Marc highlights. The club operates from May 1st to October 31st, ensuring an accessible and cost-effective experience for all members.
The PTC focuses on recreational play, catering mainly to beginners and intermediates. Instructional lessons for adults and juniors are available throughout the week, along with camps for juniors. “The leagues themselves kind of play into you taking the lesson and joining the leagues, just to enhance your tennis skills,” Marc explains. This year, PTC welcomes a new pro, Matt Chute, a seasoned coach with over 30 years of experience. Originally from St. Thomas, Matt now resides in North London and brings a deep understanding of the local tennis community. “It’s good to have him here because he knows the environment and the atmosphere of what St. Thomas has,” Marc notes. PTC’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere extends beyond St. Thomas, attracting members from surrounding areas like London. With a nonprofit status, the club reinvests all proceeds back into the community, enhancing the member experience. For more information, visit pinaforetennisclub.com. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, PTC offers a vibrant community and excellent facilities for all to enjoy.
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The STEGH Foundation: Transforming Tomorrow Campaign by Peri Hayes The St. Thomas Elgin General Public Hospital (STEGH) Foundation is excitedly immersed in their Transforming Tomorrow Campaign, proudly launched on May 29th. With a goal of raising eight million dollars to enhance and expand their Diagnostic Imaging Department, this fundraiser entails improvements toward CT scan, nuclear medicine, X-ray, and ultrasound services, in addition to the installation of STEGH’s first MRI machine. Remarkably, construction is 45% complete. As Diagnostic Imaging is a critical component of healthcare, STEGH strives to streamline the Diagnostic Imaging process for patients -- prioritizing registration as a means to amplify accessibility and result in quicker diagnosis. Mary Lou Crowley, STEGH Foundation’s CEO and President, enthuses, “This is the first ever MRI machine in Elgin County, and I know that our community is ready for it.” Mary Lou is passionate in her role, voicing, “Coming into my 11th month, it has been a real privilege to lead the foundation, board of directors, staff team and dedicated volunteers as we’ve embarked on this significant, eight-million-dollar capital campaign.” When discussing Jeff Yurek, the campaign chair, Mary Lou notes, “He demonstrates true leadership, and his passion is unparalleled. He ensures that the community is aware of this much-needed transformation of Diagnostic Imaging and has been a true champion.” At the aforementioned launch, the STEGH Foundation announced a one-million-dollar matching gift from the FDC
Foundation. “The FDC Foundation believes in the power of community,” Mary Lou explains, “And the profound impact that access to advanced healthcare can have on every individual in St. Thomas and Elgin County. They hope to inspire members of the STEGH community to give generously, knowing that their contributions will be doubled and their impact magnified.
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Together, we can ensure that the latest in diagnostic imaging technology is available right here in St. Thomas, providing exceptional care and improving the lives of our friends, families and neighbours. It’s not just about technology; it’s about transforming lives and creating a healthier future for all.” While speaking at the launch, Stefan Potoczny, Chief of Diagnostic Imaging, announced a pledge of $25,000 to the Transforming Tomorrow Campaign on behalf of himself and his wife, Jacqueline. This tremendously generous donation was the first to be matched by the FDC Foundation. Mary Lou exclaims, “We were absolutely thrilled with Dr. Potoczny’s announcement.” In accordance with the FDC Foundation’s commitment, the STEGH Foundation has until December 31st, 2024, to raise this one million dollars. Asked what personally excites Mary Lou about the Transforming Tomorrow Campaign, she replies, “For me, it’s about the commitment our community has already made and continues to make -- we are at 80 percent! What is rewarding is that people truly care about this hospital. With the generosity and commitment of a board of directors, staff and campaign volunteers, we are so close to the completion of this campaign.” She proceeds to express her gratitude for the community’s support, as well as for their FDC Foundation partnership: “It is very heartwarming. I have been blessed, and I feel that our community is blessed.” Mary Lou concludes, “A huge thank you to our donors, everyone in St. Thomas and to all of Elgin County for coming together to bring this Diagnostic Imaging Department to life, and bringing this diagnostic care closer to home. We are confident that we are going to exceed our eight-million-dollar campaign goal.”
For further information about the Transforming Tomorrow Campaign, email Ausbeth Ajagu, Marketing and Communi- cations Specialist, at Ausbeth.Ajagu@steghfoundation.ca, or call the Foundation Office at 519-631-2030. Moreover, kindly consider utilizing the ‘Donate’ button on their website at steghfoundation.ca/transformingtomorrow to contribute to this momentous cause.
Hometown St. Thomas July-August 2024 cover
Musical Chairs being played at the Indian Canadian Community picnic held June 9th at Parkside. The event was a fundraiser for STEGHF Transforming Tomorrow Campaign. Photo by Geoff Rae
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The Evolving St. Thomas Downtown Development Board by Peri Hayes The St. Thomas Downtown Development Board (St. Thomas DDB) represents all property and business owners in St. Thomas along Talbot Street from First Avenue to Stanley Street, including one block north and south of Talbot Street. Earl Taylor, Past Chair of the St. Thomas DDB, reflects on his experience: “I joined the St. Thomas DDB in 2010 when a group of dedicated downtown business owners were looking to establish a new Board of Directors. We had just opened our new Coldwell Banker real estate office across from City Hall in 2005, and I thought that it would be a good time to get involved in working to improve our downtown. I began as the Beautification Chair and took on the additional duties of Secretary, then eventually, Vice Chair under the leadership of Chair, Dan Muscat. In March 2014, I moved into the Chair position.” Upon Earl’s involvement, flower boxes were placed in front of businesses. As well, the unique ‘Welcome to Historic Downtown St Thomas’ entrance signs and the replica historic clock at the London and Port Stanley Railway (L&PS) Station were installed; the Summer Student Ambassador Program for cleaning downtown sidewalks was established, and their $150,000.00 commitment repaid to what is formerly known as The Timken Centre. The Board proceeded to launch Easter Shop Hop, Downtown Pumpkin Prowl, Oktoberfest, the Tree Lighting Celebration and Light Up Talbot. Earl enthuses, “I’m looking forward to the 10th annual Nostalgia Nights Car Show on July 13th.” Earl continues, “To put Downtown St. Thomas on the map, we developed a new jingle that promotes our downtown on the local myFM radio station and enhanced our Downtown Dollars
Program, with sales exceeding $250,000.00 over the past three years alone. I understand the need to give back to my amazing community, and as a realtor, I was able to balance my busy real estate business with my numerous volunteering efforts.” Among other engagements, Earl was a member of the St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce and is currently an ongoing member of the St. Thomas Optimist Club. “Being such a busy
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Page 8 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
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guy, I thank my wife, Nancy, for her support and understanding as I ‘changed hats and name tags’ numerous times a day, attending meetings and events.” “With the dedication of my administrator, Annette Sbarra and a strong Board of Directors in place,” Earl concludes, “I decided that after 14 years, it was time to let a new slate of volunteers take over, allowing me more time to focus on my busy real estate business, my family and maybe, some more camping trips.”
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Immersed in the St. Thomas DDB for many years, Grayden Laing transitions from his role as Vice Chair to that of Chair. “By participating,” he offers, “I’m able to give back to a community that’s given a lot to me. My specialty is on the promotion side, specifically social media.” Grayden’s positive contribution includes his video series promoting local downtown businesses. Consequently, the facebook.com/downtownstthomas Facebook page has reached 380,000 people in the past year. Grayden reveals, “The motivation is to see a bunch of projects reach completion -- the new website is one, as well as collaborating with the St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation, the EDC.” As Grayden expresses, “A huge shout-out to Earl for the past decade of service he has provided. He will always be a legacy member of the Downtown Board.” Those interested in connecting with the St. Thomas DDB for further information — or with promotion ideas for their Facebook page — are welcome to send an email to ddb@stthomas.ca. Beginning in mid- July, inquiries regarding businesses in the downtown core can be directed toward Administration seven days a week. Moreover, explore the events and news on their website at downtownstthomas.ca.
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024 • Page 9
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Railway City Music and Arts Festival by Peri Hayes Rick Nemett is the proud President of the Railway City Music and Arts Festival (RCMAF). He details, “RCMAF is a purely volunteer-driven event. The Board of Directors is composed of individuals who serve solely out of their own love of the arts and their pride in our community. I first became involved with the Festival in 2021 when my own band was asked to perform. I saw the value in such a community-focused event and enjoyed it so much that I offered to ‘help out’ with the next year’s event.” During this “life-changing experience,” as Rick describes, he booked the bands for the four-day event. He continues, “The artist community is so incredibly supportive of one another, and the joy of working so closely with so many talented people while also spreading that joy to my community was just incredible!” Rick then joined the Board of Directors, wherein he continues to work alongside a committee of dedicated members. This connective, free and family-friendly Festival will operate from August 15th to August 18th at the enchanting venue of Pinafore Park, which has been determined to be their permanent home. The centrepiece of this Festival involves the “Port Stanley Lions & Lioness Main Stage” located at the Bandshell, and the Community Stage at the Dance Pavilion. While the Main Stage will feature established local music, the Community Stage is a space for anyone to reserve time, whether to play a couple of songs, a full set, or share a dance composition. Each stage will be an all-ages licensed event from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. Rick announces, “We are inviting all artists to come and display and/or sell their creations in the
artist village. We will also have a marketplace located along the paved pathways with dozens of artisans and vendors in attendance showing off their products.” Returning is the Magic Express Train, providing rides throughout the park for a small donation. Moreover, KidZone will feature arts and crafts programming and story time each day until 6:00 pm in the Street Railway Pavilion. On Sunday, Nostalgia Day, a Classic Car Show will be presented. This is the Festival’s fourth year in its current format and location. Seize the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing day filled with fantastic food and refreshments, breathtaking local businesses and magnificent music. All registration forms for participation in this Festival as an artist, performer, vendor, or volunteer are available through the ‘Get Invol- ved’ tab on their website at ‘railwaycitymusicandartsfestival. ca.’Furthermore, visit the ‘About’ section to review RCMAF’s empowering mission statement. Rick passionately urges that the community’s support will ensure the continuation of this beloved celebration. Direct any Inquiries to their email address at info. RCMAF@gmail.com.,0
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Commemorating a Decade of Nostalgia Nights Car Show! by Peri Hayes Vanessa Buckland, Chair of the Nostalgia Nights Car Show Committee, declares, “This is my first year being a part of this event. Luckily, several committee members have been a part of this event for years. We have an incredible group of people working to make this year’s car show a success.” “I am a part of the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board (St. Thomas DDB), and I am also a small business owner,” Vanessa continues. “My husband and I are the owners of Lockwood Books on Talbot Street. Events like the Nostalgia Nights Car Show are huge for downtown businesses. When Mr. Earl Taylor retired from the St. Thomas DDB, there was concern that unless someone else was willing to take on the responsibility of putting together this major event, we would have to say goodbye to our Downtown Car Show. I was happy to volunteer without a second thought. I wasn’t willing to lose one of our busiest days of the year, especially after all the construction that the downtown businesses had to deal with last year.” As Vanessa charismatically offers, “This year, the Nostalgia Nights Car Show will feature free train rides, two live music performance areas, ‘Creators Alley’ showcasing local vendors and artisans, the Ms. Canadian Pinup 2024 Contest hosted by the Canadian Bombshell Beautiesandlotsoffunactivitiesforthekids,nottomentionthecountless stunning classic cars lining the streets. You will definitely find me at the Cotton Candy booth, or maybe at the St. Thomas Optimist Club BBQ tent.” Families are invited to enjoy the immersive Nostalgia Nights experience on Saturday, July 13th, from 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm.
Vanessa details: “Fabulous food and vendors, great music, exciting activities, photo opportunities galore; take your pick! Really, I think the number one reason that everyone should experience the Nostalgia Nights Car Show is the sense of community that comes with it. Events like these are proof that when a city comes together, amazing things happen. It’s going to be an evening to remember, and you won’t want to miss it!” This free celebration will be located on Talbot Street, stretching from Elgin Street to John Street. Follow the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board on social media for updates, as well as visit their website at nostalgianights.ca for further information. Vanessa concludes, “A huge thank you to all the team members, sponsors, downtown businesses and volunteers for making the 10th Annual Nostalgia Nights Car Show possible.” Those with inquiries about the Nostalgia Nights Car Show and volunteer opportunities are encouraged to email Vanessa directly at lockwood_books@outlook.com, or to connect with the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board at ddb@stthomas.ca as well as visit their nostalgianights.ca website for further information.
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024 • Page 11
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Experience at Nationals in Edmonton, Alberta by Kali Baker, 16U St. Thomas Express Bullets Team Member This past May, our team, 16U St Thomas Express Bullets, had the opportunity to participate in the 2024 Volleyball Nationals in Edmonton, Alberta. This was an opportunity of a lifetime— from travelling as a group on the plane to the excitement of winning matches, and so much more, these are all things we will never forget. We arrived in Edmonton early, which allowed us to adjust to the changes in time and settle into our surroundings. We spent our first day at a ‘Team Day’ event hosted by Sportchek. We met a few professional volleyball athletes there, took some shots in a 360° photo booth and received some amazing swag. Soon after, we headed over to the Edmonton Expo Centre to have our very own practice. We used this opportunity to discuss game plans strategically and to strengthen ourselves for the next three days of play. I remember first walking into the venue and it was massive. There were tons of food places, ‘merch’, and a DJ booth, which was so much fun as the hall we were playing in was right near it, making us want to dance or sing past it, every time lifting our spirits. From the start, our coaches would tell us, ‘This is what you have worked for all year,’ and they were right. This was our time to shine and to get that medal we wanted! Our first day of playing was a round-robin style, which continued for two out of the three days. Playing these games would help determine our ranking for playoffs. The days would consist of three full games against
three different teams. We fought hard through those days, with some solid wins, helping us to prepare for the final day. These wins helped us grow and work together as a team to achieve our goals. For my team, we strive to come together in the middle no matter what and say something positive like, ‘It’s okay -- you’ve got the next one,’ or, ‘Shake it off, you’ve got it.’ On the night before playoffs, we found we had to start our first game around 8:00 am. This meant a very early curfew to rest up for the big day! But before going to bed, we had to celebrate a parent’s birthday on our team. Her one request was to have a dance party in the lobby to a specific song. As we like to say, we ‘hyped’ ourselves up with that dance. We then had some cake and went to bed. I remember waking up so nervous, as this was ‘do or die.’ If we lost, we were done, and no one
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Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
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wanted that. We all decided to wear our orange jerseys since they had been our ‘luckiest’ throughout the season. For me, that meant wearing white, as I play a different position (libero) that requires a different jersey colour. We arrived at the venue and decided to have another dance party to get us pumped. Our dance ritual was first dancing to Fireball with a parent, then Lip Gloss with our coach. Soon after, we started our game as normal, warming up, doing lots of stretching, and discussing the game plan once again. Everyone was super nervous and excited at the same time. The first set of players lined up at the end line to be whistled in.
It’s Road Work Season We haved everything you need for Road Safety! We were all playing amazingly well. I remember seeing everyone’s emotions change from nervous to excited. I think this helped us gain confidence and made us believe in ourselves. Before we knew it, we won that game, then a second, third and all of a sudden we found ourselves at the gold medal match! We fought so hard, pushing them to a third set. However, they eventually pulled through, winning by two points. We knew this wasn’t something to hang our heads about since we had won a silver medal at nationals!
We were all so excited to bring this piece of hardware back to St Thomas, but we would have never made it this far without our coaches, parents/guardians, teammates and most of all, our sponsors. On behalf of the 2023-2024 16U St Thomas Express Bullets, we would like to say a special thank you to M&M Food Market, Kettle Creek Swans, The Columbus Club, Impressions Printing, Hayhoe Homes, Doug Tarry Homes, HD Painting, Streib Trucking & Excavating, and Mattress Brands International!
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Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024 • Page 13
Graduate 2024 – Alex Vandernaalt Alex Vandernaalt, a standout student from Central Elgin Collegiate Institute (CECI), is ready to take on the world after an impressive high school career. Alex has been a dedicated member of the Air Cadets since grade seven, a commitment that has profoundly shaped her path. This experience has fuelled Alex’s passion for the military and aviation, setting the stage for her future ambitions. Sports and outdoor activities are central to Alex’s life. “I really like sports and just spending time outdoors,” Alex said. At CECI, Alex has been an active participant in field hockey, cross- country, wrestling, and soccer and has also enjoyed playing pickleball and badminton. This love for sports has been more than just a hobby; it’s been a crucial way for Alex to connect with others and build lasting relationships. “Sports were really important for helping me get to know people, and it’s also a great way to get to know your teachers,” Alex explained. “It helps school become more than just a building in a sense.” Alex’s interests extend beyond sports to academics and hands- on work. “I’ve always really liked the metal shop,” she mentioned. “Just an opportunity to do something more hands-on.” However, Alex’s current focus is on science and math courses as she prepares for a future in engineering. This academic dedication is all part of Alex’s plan to attend the Royal Military College (RMC) for a Bachelor of Engineering and eventually become an aerospace engineering officer in the Air Force. Beyond academics and sports, Alex has been a vibrant part of the school community. “First, I served as a class representative for grades 10 and 11 on the Student Council”. This year, Alex is
serving as Student Council President; in this role, Alex has been involved in organizing numerous school events. “I’ve done sports, but I didn’t really do any clubs,” said Alex. “I thought I should try and be a part of Student Council. The Student Council does a lot for the school. I was also in the leadership class. Between those two, school becomes a lot more than just academics when you’re participating, and you help those events happen.” Looking ahead, Alex is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead in the Air Force. “I’m really interested in seeing the world,” Alex said. “The Air Force can give me a mix of the technical hands-on while living a really active lifestyle while also going into engineering. There’s a lot of potential in the Air Force because aviation is like a new frontier,” Alex remarked. Alex’s journey from a dedicated Air Cadet to a future aerospace engineering officer is achievable due to her hard work and passion.
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Page 14 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
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Graduate 2024 Paige Balogh Paige Balogh, a graduating senior from Parkside Collegiate Institute, has made her mark through a unique blend of academic excellence and active participation in school life. “Quite frankly, I don’t do that much outside of school,” Paige’s contributions to Parkside are a testament to her dedication to making the most of her school experience. Paige’s journey through high school has been filled with numerous roles and activities. “I’m on student council, Reach for the Top. I used to do games club; I film for both rugby and football; I was captain of the improv team, I was part of the school show, and I did leadership for a semester,” she explains. These commitments have kept her “kind of busy,” showcasing her ability to balance multiple responsibilities. “I’ve always had a passion for musical theatre. So, I do sing a lot. I work on my truck because that’s fun. And I also read when I have the time,” she shares. This artistic inclination is reflected in her favourite class, drama, which she describes as “Very underrated” and incredibly fun. Her bond with her drama teacher, Mrs. Grigg, and her love for group work and creativity have made drama a standout experience for her. Paige also had a starring role in the school’s first show in five years, “Grinch-tacular, ” where she narrated the musical adaptation of How the Grinch Stole Christmas . Academically, Paige has excelled, earning an entrance scholarship of $4,000 to Carleton University in Ottawa, where she will pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a co- op option. Her academic achievements and her involvement in a high school law class have inspired her future career
aspirations. “After my Bachelor’s, I’m either going to pursue law school to become a youth criminal defence lawyer, or I will become a clinical psychologist,” she says. O ne of Paige’s fondest memories at Parkside was running the pep rally earlier this semester. “It was honestly just incredible to see the school coming together over a shared interest,” she recalls. The introduction of colour ‘houses’ added a “very Hogwarts-y” element to the event, making it even more special. Another high- light was organizing a haunted house for the Halloween dance, where the unexpected screams of her peers confirmed its success. As Paige prepares to leave Parkside, she cherishes the sense of community and the friendships she has built. “High school is really what you make of it -- there’s just something about being a part of the community and watching everyone get together and try their hardest that I’m going to miss,” she concludes.
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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2023 • Page 15 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024 • Page
Graduate 2024 – Juvienne Rimando Juvienne Rimando’s is graduating from St. Joeseph’s Catholic High School. She and her family moved to Canada from the Philippines when she was just five, living in Hamilton until moving to St. Thomas during COVID. Arriving at St. Joe’s during the COVID pandemic was a challenging experience for Juvienne. “Being a new student was very nerve-wracking for me, especially since I didn’t know anyone here at all,” she shares. The pandemic added an extra layer of difficulty in making friends, but by grade 10, she began to find her footing. “I made a bunch of friends and got to know many of the teachers here,” she recalls. Juvienne’s involvement at St. Joe’s extended beyond aca- demics. Her dedication and enthusiasm were evident in her participation in various school activities. She was part of the Youth Advisory Council, discussing diverse cultures within the school, and she emceed events, such as the open house for incoming students. “I told them what I really liked about the school. I honestly love St. Joe’s because everyone is very inclusive and kind.” Due to a knee injury, she focused on extracurricular activities rather than sports. “I joined the book club, health and wellness club, and the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program in Health and Wellness,” she says. The SHSM program allowed her to explore her passion for the dental field through co-op placements, giving her invaluable hands-on experience. “I got to educate myself about what it’s like to be in a dental office,” she explains. It is Juvienne’s goal to become a dentist after she finishes her post-secondary education.
One of her fondest memories includes the support she received from the school staff. “I want to give a shout-out to Mrs. Ursic, my amazing English teacher, and to Mrs. Gillet, the librarian. They have been very kind and patient,” Juvienne notes. These relationships helped shape her into a confident and outgoing individual. Outside of school, Juvienne enjoys reading, travelling, and spending time in nature with her family. “Reading gives me a sense of peace,” she says. This balance helps her manage the stress of being a high school student. Looking ahead, Juvienne has committed to the Health Science Co- op program at the University of Waterloo, a competitive program that aligns with her aspiration to enter dental school. Her journey at St. Joe’s has equipped her with academic knowledge, personal growth, and confidence. “St. Joe’s is a great and inclusive school that definitely shaped who I am as a person.”
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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
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Graduate 2024 Ven Crocker Ven Crocker is a dynamic and dedicated student, celebrating her graduation from Arthur Voaden Secondary School (AVSS). Ven, who returned for a fifth year to maximize her high school experience, will be attending Huron University in the fall, majoring in English and literature to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree. “Eventually, I’d like to earn my Bachelor of Education and become a high school teacher,” she shares, “Maybe art, maybe history. I really like math.” Ven reflects on how school began for her at AVSS and how COVID affected it. “My first year was really good. Well, my first semester, and then COVID hit. I really got a good feel for the high school dynamic.” Ven’s enthusiasm for AVSS is evident in her involvement in various school activities. “There’s always something going on, always a club, always an event, always a game,” she says. “I’ve gotten so much support here, so many opportunities and leadership positions. I took this leadership course last semester to help teach a grade nine class. I’ve run both of our dances and our holiday assembly. I make the announcements every day. I help with games, and Terry Fox runs. We’re doing a walk tomorrow for the family, and I’m helping with that.” When asked about her favourite subjects, Ven doesn’t hesitate: “Definitely English. I’ve loved English a lot. English and Math. Some of the math courses are hard, but I do like math. I’m in this World Issues geography class this semester, and I really like it so far. I also loved our hairstyling aesthetics class last year. It’s so fun and chill. I’m just obsessed with doing all of it.” Ven credits the supportive staff for her positive experience. “I
could give a shout-out to a lot of them, like half the building, the office ladies, pretty much everybody.” Ven made a deliberate decision to choose AVSS. “I went here because only two kids from my school were going, and I loved the tech and art departments. If we’re talking about the reputation, I don’t really think it deserves the one it has. Some students make poor decisions, and that’s what people latch onto. But the school itself offers so much support, and opportunities for scholarships and apprenticeships.” Outside of school, Ven enjoys a range of activities. “I like to paint and hang out with my friends. I’m a very extroverted person. I like going out, doing things, going for drives. But I do work a lot and chill in my room playing video games when I’m not busy. Recently, I’ve gotten really into cleaning. It feels so nice being in a clean environment; it puts you in a good mindset.”
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Ainslee Tracey, Broker 519-636-5717 @ISellStThomas
53 Augusta Cres St.Thomas
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Visit our website at www.ISellStThomas.com to see all our active listings John Wise Public School District
www.ISellStThomas.com
View important disclosures and notices about trademarks at rlp.ca/notices Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale and/or buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
Perfect Retirement Condo – $549,900 Discover serene living in this lovely 2 Bedroom condo nestled on a picturesque tree ravine lot. Open concept on main floor with patio doors to deck overlooking the private rear yard. This home offers quiet living, on the north part of town. Main floor laundry is a plus.
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Page 26 Hometown St. Thomas • July-August 2024
Specializing in you since 1982 I have been helping people buy and sell in our area for the past 41 years. Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Farm and Leasing.
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View important disclosures and notices about trademarks at rlp.ca/notices Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale and/or buyers or sellers currently under contract with a brokerage.
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28 James Turvey Place, St. Thomas Pristine brick bungalow with a 2 car attached garage, this home boasts on the main level an open concept kitchen and living room with a vaulted ceiling. The Living room offers access to a concrete patio area and a beautiful landscaped rear yard. Also on the main floor is a large primary bedroom with a 4 piece ensuite and a walk-in closet. There is a second bedroom, 3 piece bathroom and main floor laundry. Moving to the lower level which offers a large rec room with a gas fireplace, bedroom, a 3 piece bathroom and storage. List Price $659,900
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