EYOND B oomers
B and
December 2025 • Issue 66 Celebrating the 55+ Community of Elgin County
Letter from the Editor Generally speaking, I’m not one of those people who look back at life and think, “Man, I wish I were 20 again .” Or even 10 again. I’m pretty content right where I am. But once a year, at Christmastime, I can’t help but think back to what it was like being a kid in my house during the holidays, and let me tell you, those were some good years!
may or may not have helped ourselves straight from the freezer (patience was never our strong suit). She’d open the tins later and wonder aloud, “Didn’t I make more of these?” We’d just shrug, crumbs on our shirts. We were spoiled at Christmas, not just with toys (though having a mom who sold them for a living didn’t hurt), but with time together. Two glorious weeks off school to play, eat, and just be kids. Every once in a while, I wouldn’t mind going back to that. There’s something special about Christmas as a child, plus, my back didn’t hurt when I woke up. Of all the gifts I ever received, my favourite was my Friend Bear Care Bear (Peach with two Sunflowers on her tummy). I loved that bear. So much so that when my brother got mad and put it in the microwave for 30 seconds, a series of retaliations followed that are best left off the record. Today, as I host my family for Christmas dinner, I carry on many of the same traditions. Our Christmas dinner does not look much different than when I was a kid, except for the addition of my mother-in-law’s blueberry Duff. The decorations, the laughter, and the time spent with family remain the true gifts of the season. From all of us at Boomers & Beyond , Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May your holiday be filled with warmth, laughter, and just enough nostalgia to make you smile.
Much of my childhood was spent playing games with my brother and family. We started with Monopoly, Risk , and Hotels , the gateway games of many a sibling rivalry, and graduated to even more complicated ones, usually involving either war or money. Whole afternoons disappeared around the game board, and those were the moments that made the holidays shine. Christmas was magic in our house. My mother would spend weeks decorating, right down to swapping out all the regular artwork for winter-themed paintings. My poor father was the designated box carrier, hauling decorations up and down the stairs like a festive pack mule, often roping my brother and me into the effort. The house looked spectacular, though, and I think that’s where my own love of Christmas really took root. My mother also baked for weeks, tins full of cookies, squares, and fudge filling the freezer. My brother and I
From 2 to 102 may the holiday spirit never leave you
Boomers and Beyond – Elgin Magazine has partnered with local businesses to help share the joy of Christmas with local seniors. Search this magazine for this Santa logo, and each time you find him, you will see a business that cared about sharing a smile this Christmas. Each of these Santas represents gifts given to local seniors through the Smiles for Seniors How you can win!
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oomers B and EYOND B at Christmas program. This year, with the support of our local businesses, we have been able to donate $3,000, and over five years, we have given more than $17,000 in total. If you can spot all the Santas, you, too, have a chance to win. Count the Santas and send an email with your name, phone number and the name of this magazine to hometown@ villagerpublications.com with the correct number of Santas for your chance to win. On December 15th, we will randomly draw one name from the correct entries, and you could win a $75 Briwood Farm Market gift certificate just in time for Christmas! MERRY CHRISTMAS!
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Page 2 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025
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Local Game Creator Puts Her Own FINESSE on Bridge and Beyond For local game creator Carole Coplea, inspiration comes from a lifelong love of cards, creativity, and connection. Her newest creation, FINESSE , is a board game designed to make bridge more accessible, but it turns out it’s a great game in its own right. “I grew up in the 1950s in a rural area where you made your own fun,” says Carole. “We played a lot of games -- board games, card games, marbles, crokinole; that was our entertainment.” That early love of games never faded. Later, while studying journalism and English at university in Ottawa, Carole discovered bridge. “My parents played bridge, but I never learned from them. When my dorm floor needed a fourth player, I got roped in and was hooked immediately.” Carole and her husband eventually settled in St. Thomas after years in Ottawa and abroad. While living in Italy, she began teaching bridge to others and quickly realized how challenging the game can be to learn later in life. “Bridge has a big learning curve,” she says. “So, I thought, what if I created a way to teach people visually, without all the memorization? That’s how FINESSE began.” The result is a clever board game that simplifies the mechanics of bridge bidding and play. What started as a teaching tool became a full-fledged game. “During testing,” says Carole, I discovered that FINESSE isn’t just educational; it’s really fun to play. Some of my students love it so much they don’t even want to move on to bridge!” Carole has produced 250 prototype copies of FINESSE and even sent materials to Hasbro for review. Each of the first 100 games is numbered, adding a touch of collectability. “Who knows where it might go,” she says. Her creative streak doesn’t end there. Carole has also written a murder mystery novel called Death in Duplicate , which blends her love of bridge and storytelling. “It’s set in a bridge club where two players mysteriously collapse mid- game,” she explains. “It’s a mystery, but readers also learn a lot about bridge along the way.” She’s now developing a companion game based on the book, combining elements of Clue and Monopoly .
If you’d like to try FINESSE yourself, you can find Carole at upcoming Christmas Markets, including the Columbus Club Market on December 5th -- or email her directly at copleac@gmail.com. “Publicity is great,” Carole says, smiling. “For me, it’s all about sharing something I love and connecting with people over a good game.”
Box Office (519)782-4353 www.psft.ca Port StanleyFestival FestivalTheatre Early Bird Season Subscriptions, Single Tickets, Gift Certificates Available Now. Treat someone special to an afternoon or evening of laughter, drama, music, and lakeside charm. A thoughtful gift today, and a memorable experience to look forward to. A Port Stanley Festival Theatre gift certificate is more than a gift — it’s an experience!
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 3
Volunteer of the Month, Richard Huxley Sponsored by Royal Oak by Peri Hayes
Richard (Rick) Huxley is an active volunteer in the community, about which he presents, “My wife and I came to Destination Church about eight years ago as a result of my association with the Pastor, Beth Fellinger.” The pair became involved in the food services projects within the church, which entails community meal preparation, event catering, Good Foodbox coordination and their School Lunch Program. “As a retired couple, we had often discussed how we could give back to the community, and this was a way we could share our skills for the benefit of others.” Rick directs his most prominent efforts toward coordinating the Elgin Good Foodbox Program, which he enthusiastically reveals has grown over these eight years; from about 20 boxes prepared per month to almost 200. “I spend approximately two weeks a month on the Foodbox Program,” Rick details. “I also lead a team of volunteers in the preparation and offering of a free dinner, open to everyone twice a month.” This event is known as ‘Stone Soup’, bringing warmth to the bellies of 40 to 80 individuals every other Thursday. Describing the ways in which volunteering continues to inspire him, Rick voices, “Knowing that hundreds of people are able to access good and healthy food while living on a limited income is rewarding. As a child, I remember the challenges my parents faced on a daily basis raising four boys, and it is rewarding to help as many as we can with all the economic challenges we face in today’s world.” Further to this, Rick conveys to the community, “The doors to the church are open to everyone, and knowing that anyone who comes through those doors can do so without being judged, belittled or frowned upon is heart-warming and needed in society. I am proud to participate in fulfilling the goals and mission of Destination Church.” “Everyone has the ability to serve within their community,” Rick encourages. “Some do it by donating money to a
favourite charity or organization, others through donations of food and clothing. However, donating your time by putting your boots on the ground is not only essential to the many community organizations, it is needed to ensure their very existence. Being retired offers me the gift of time; time I can give for the betterment of others.” For those interested, Destination Church welcomes vol- unteers whose contributions encompass working on their uplighting local initiatives and various food programs. The Moore Street Garden is also maintained through the church and their team of dedicated volunteers, producing fresh fruits and vegetables for those in need. Located at 668 Talbot Street, phone Destination Church at 519-207- 2676 with inquiries. As Rick passionately concludes, “I often remind myself when I see someone in need that, ‘there but for the grace of God goes you or I.’ I have a choice to either turn my back, or hold out my hands. I choose to hold out my hands.”
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Page 4 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025
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St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3 – A Night to Remember The stage lights were bright and the applause was loud at St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3, presented by Nurse Next Door, held Saturday, November 1st at the St. Thomas Seniors Centre. Ten incredible acts took to the stage to entertain a packed house with music, laughter, and heartfelt performances, all in support of Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin. The talented lineup included The Garage Guys, Anna Kauenhofen, Ruth Warren, Ronda Degaust, Tara McCaulley, Daryn Bee, Alan Weatherall, Maurice Bigras, Steve Ogden, and Tom Martin. Last year’s winner, Gene Corliss, returned with a crowd-pleasing encore performance while the judges deliberated. After much consideration, the panel of judges, Dave Thomson, Liz Gilroy, Rhonda Kaplanis, and Tammy Bale, awarded first place to Tom Martin for his moving rendition of Bring Him Home from Les Misérables , accompanied beautifully on piano by Ronda Seed. The event was hosted by me, representing Boomers & Beyond Magazine , in partnership with the St. Thomas Seniors Centre. Mike Vecchio again served as Master of Ceremonies. It was such a wonderful night. The room was full of energy, laughter, and genuine talent. Every performer gave it their all, and it was incredible to see how much heart our community has.
Special thanks for their generous support go out to the presenting sponsor, Nurse Next Door, as well as Royal Oak Senior Living, Elgin Audiology, Seasons St. Thomas, Love Your Feet by Pam, The Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Briwood Farm Market, and Metcalfe Gardens. Thank you to my co-host, the St. Thomas Seniors Centre, for all that they do, as well as to Candice from CVD Photography, for giving our performers the star treatment; to Mike Vecchio for once again being a wonderful MC; to our judges, for their careful deliberations, and finally, to Adrian from A&M Sounds, who ensured the performances both looked and sounded fantastic. If you’ve never been to St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent, make sure to mark your calendar for next year. It’s a tremendous evening filled with laughter, music, and incredible performances, all for the love of entertaining and supporting a great local cause. And if you or someone you know is 55 or older, with a talent to share, the search for next year’s performers will begin soon. To get on the audition list for next October, call 519-495-7177 or email geoff@villagerpublications.com. Thank you to everyone who performed, attended, and supported this wonderful community event. We can’t wait to see you again for St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 4 in November 2026! More than 62,000 patients depend on our each year. Emergency Department
May you and your family enjoy the magic of the season! Merry Christmas
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 5
Health for Life Marks 17 Years of Warmth with Annual Holiday Sock Drive
The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Patients often begin asking about the sock drive long before it launches, and this year, donations started arriving even before the official kickoff. While many contributions come from loyal patients, Dr. Colledge notes that plenty of local residents also stop in just to drop off socks. “The generosity we see every year never fails to remind us of what a caring community we have here in St. Thomas.” The sock drive runs from early November through January 1st. Donations of brand-new socks in any size suitable for children aged 4 to 14 can be dropped off at Health for Life. Once the drive wraps up, Dr. Colledge sorts the socks into baskets and personally delivers them to every elementary school in St. Thomas. School staff then distribute them to the students who need them most. “Seeing the gratitude and knowing those socks will keep kids warm all winter long is one of my favourite parts,” she says. For Dr. Colledge and Dr. Stafford, giving back through the practice reflects their commitment to community wellness. “True health includes emotional and social well-being,” she says. “And even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big impact.” The drive also ties into a cherished family tradition -- the annual themed holiday decorations created by Dr. Colledge’s mother and daughter. Their handmade creations are raffled off to donors, adding festive fun to a campaign rooted in generosity and community spirit.
For Dr. Denise Colledge, own- er of Health for Life Chiro- practic at 172 Centre Street in St. Thomas, one simple conversation sparked a tra- dition that has now lasted nearly two decades. After hearing from a patient, an elementary school teacher, that some students arrived
at school with socks full of holes, damp from their boots, or sometimes with no socks at all. “Hearing that gave shivers up my spine,” she recalls. “I could not imagine how difficult it must be for those kids to stay focused or even feel comfortable during their school day.” From that moment, the Health for Life Sock Drive was born. Now in its 17th year, the initiative continues to grow thanks to the support of patients, community members, and the dedicated team at Health for Life, including Dr. Colledge’s associate, Dr. Cassie Stafford. Socks were a natural choice, she said. “They are such a simple yet powerful way to make a difference. Whether someone donates one pair or several, every contribution adds a little warmth to a child’s day.”
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2025 St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent Declares Winner by Peri Hayes The 2025 St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent was celebrated last month at the St. Thomas Seniors’ Recreation Centre, showcasing the array of talents embodied by members of the community aged 55+. Presented by Nurse Next Door, St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent recently donated $2,050 to Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin. Local resident, Tom Martin, was crowned the latest victor at this anticipated event. Proudly introducing his journey, he shares, “I participated in the competition last year and ended up in the top three.” This year, Tom decided to present his vocal performance of Bring Him Home from the Broadway musical Les Misérables, incorporating lovely piano accompaniment from Ronda Seed. Tom details his reasoning for this selection: “I wanted to sing a song that would resonate with the crowd. The theme was very much influenced by my family history in the First and Second World Wars. The song at this time of year, close to Remembrance Day, drew the crowd into the lyrics.” As Tom reveals, “Music came late in life for me – in the last ten years – and to hear an audience react to my vocals was most gratifying. For many years, I had wanted to sing -- but as a young child, I had been discouraged. I went to a one-room school for eight years, and there really was not much of an opportunity to pursue music.”
As he conveys with appreciation, this undeniable passion of Tom’s is incredibly supported by his family and friends: “It was fun to have my sisters, who live away, come to the event.” Moreover, Tom is involved in a ‘practice’ band, which ga- thers on a weekly basis. He is looking forward to continuing his creative exploration with musical companions, high- lighting, “Our band is led by Brian May from Studio Arts, and we have a lot of fun trying various different songs and genres of music.” As Tom humbly expresses about his fulfilling experience competing in the St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent: “I was overwhelmed by the crowd reaction, and to see some folks shed tears was an amazing occurrence -- one certainly to be remembered.”
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 7
playing in other projects, we come together to form this large ‘super group’ when we can.” Particularly, Noel Lesperance joins on keyboard and saxophone; Paul Atkinson plays guitar and electric violin; and Jim Tone is on acoustic guitar. “We also have two horn players, being Andy Lusher on saxophone and Bruce Smith accompanying on trumpet -- who is a former AVSS music teacher.” Jonathon, Andy and Ken are all former students of Bruce’s, as Ken beams, “Bruce taught us music. He got back into playing the trumpet, and this is his third time playing with us.” Their first performance was in support of the Port Bur- well Lighthouse, and they have since been involved in an organized series of concerts. As a cover band, Via Satellite ’s catalogue is composed of the unexpected classics. “You will certainly be able to sing and dance to everything we play,” Ken delightedly assures. With their upcoming concert taking place on December 12th at 7:00 pm inside of the Old Town Hall Theatre in Aylmer, Ken intentionally highlights the support of Port Burwell Legion members who will be operating the bar and have been helping to promote this project. Asked what excites Ken about this concert on the horizon, he voices, “Performing with this level of musicianship that I am sharing the stage with. It’s incredible to play with this calibre and as I look around, I am really humbled by the experience. I wanted to put together an all-star band, and I really feel privileged to be on stage playing with these individuals.” Appreciative to have three cameras recording throughout this concert, a video production post-event will be created. This footage will then be used for promotional material, along with giving the people in this band a cherished memento of their performance. Tickets are currently available at the Port Burwell Legion, as well as by messaging Ken on Facebook at ‘Ken Kokko’. “I am easy to find,” he warmly welcomes. As Ken concludes, “It’s amazing when all of the musicians are on the same level of musicianship. We look forward to playing these shows. It really is special to all of us up there.”
Via Satellite, Upcoming Performance by Peri Hayes Ken Kokko of the band, Via Satellite , offers their back- ground: “This began with high school friends in the late- ‘80s. We started playing and evolved, changing members and becoming a band that played in and around St. Thomas and London for a number of years. We were all part of Arthur Voaden Secondary School (AVSS) at the time when we started to play together.” Presently presenting as a nine-piece band, Ken introduces their members: “Jonathon Russell is our lead singer and Guy Miskelly is on guitar, while Ryan Van Acker plays drums and I play bass. Then, what we’ve done is bring in guest musicians to become part of the band. Currently
Page 8 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025
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What Ever Happened to Fruitcake? The Rise, Fall, and Comeback of a Christmas Classic There are few desserts that divide a holiday table quite like fruitcake. Mention the word and you’ll see reactions ranging from misty-eyed nostalgia to mild horror. Yet, for all the jokes about doorstops and re-gifting, fruitcake has a long and fascinating history, and it might just be making a comeback. Fruitcake has been part of Christmas celebrations for centuries. Its origins go back to ancient Rome, where a mix of pomegranate seeds, nuts, and barley mash was the go-to energy snack for soldiers. Over time, the recipe evolved into the dense, fruit-and- nut-filled loaf we know today. By Victorian times, it had become a symbol of celebration, a rich, spiced cake packed with dried fruit and preserved citrus, often soaked in brandy to keep it “fresh” through the season (and possibly until the next one). Of course, the booze is where some of us draw the line. Personally, I’m a lifelong fan of fruitcake, as long as it’s free of alcohol and that mysterious layer of marzipan that seems to appear without warning. Please give me a dark, dense, sticky slice that leans more toward molasses than rum, and I’m happy. There’s something deeply comforting about that rich aroma of candied fruit, spice, and nostalgia. I particularly like the one the Shriners sell as a fundraiser at Christmas! So what happened? How did a dessert once so beloved become the butt of so many holiday jokes? The short answer: mass production. In the mid-20th century, fruitcakes became a commercial product; uniform, overly sweet, and
heavy on the neon-green cherries. The homemade care and subtlety that once made them special gave way to factory efficiency, and with that, the dessert’s reputation crumbled faster than a stale slice left on the counter. But don’t count fruitcake out just yet. In recent years, bakers and home cooks have been reclaiming the recipe, swapping candied mystery fruit for real dried cherries, cranberries, and apricots. Local ingredients, better spices, and yes, restraint with the brandy, have helped fruitcake rediscover its charm. Maybe it’s nostalgia, or maybe it’s the slow return to homemade traditions, but fruitcake is quietly finding its way back onto Christmas tables. And honestly? It deserves it. So this year, before you make another joke about ‘the world’s oldest fruitcake’, consider giving it another try — preferably dark, moist, and just the right amount of sweet. Because somewhere beneath all the candied peel and reputation, there’s still a truly classic Christmas treat waiting to be loved again.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 9
‘Tis the Season! by Liz Gilroy Port Stanley Festival Theatre Artistic Director
of Whales Theatre, the bus got stuck on stage and the actor had to sing his song THREE times before they finally drew the curtains and the stagehands pushed the bus off. This summer, our 2026 Season is full of surprises! (planned ones). We’ve got two Norm Fosters, two world premieres, a romantic comedy, the hit sounds of the 70s, a comedy/thriller, and Michelle Thrush’s one- woman indigenous show, all the way from Western Canada. Our Early Bird Subscriptions are now on sale; snag your favourite seats at the best price! Save over $50.00 if you book before January 15th -- it might just be the perfect Christmas gift for family, friends or perhaps a gift for yourself! Our Gift Certificates are the ideal stocking stuffer; that way, your loved ones get to choose the show or shows of their choice from our 2026 Summer Season -- an afternoon with DOLLY and ELVIS, or some springtime hilarity with some of the best improvisers in Canada at Improv Night.
I love the quiet that the blanket of snow brings in the winter, it’s a welcome stillness amidst all the glorious chaos; the planning, decorating, shopping, visiting and preparing for our busy holiday season. Port will come to life with lights and decorations that make even the coldest of winter nights seem cozy and magical. I remember when my mom used to take me to the Christmas window displays at Simpsons and Eaton’s in Toronto. It was one of my favourite holiday traditions, and to top off the day, I was often treated to hot chocolate and a piece of black forest cake. When I think back to the Christmases of my childhood, it is those small celebrations that bring me the most joy -- like the parcel I would get from my aunt Jess and Uncle Jeff in Scotland filled with Quality Street chocolate, Marks and Sparks jumpers, and a British 5-pound note. The chocolate was better, my jumper was unique, and 5 pounds was 10 dollars! My parents would often take me to a Holiday Show as well, sometimes a musical, or a ballet, or a Pantomime. It didn’t matter which; I loved getting dressed up and going to a live performance. Live performance is unmatched; nothing will ever replace it because ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN! When I went on opening night to see PRISCILLA: Queen of the Desert at the Princess
Our shows and upcoming sea- son have something for every- one, just like a Christmas win- dow display, full of magic, won- der, and the unexpected. However you celebrate this sea- son, may it be filled with joy, love, and generosity of spirit. See you at the theatre!
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Page 10 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025
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Continual Living, Loving and Learning Maple Wings Flight Centre by Peri Hayes
Nurse Next Door
Dave Hertner began his flight training at the age of 14, practicing at age 16 as a student pilot from September ‘81 through May of ‘82. Dave has been involved with Maple Wings Flight Centre (MWFC) since October of ‘23, having since become their Operations Manager/AP and more. Formerly a Dispatcher, he has transitioned to operating their versatile flight school: “I jumped right in!” Asked about his personal inspiration, Dave recounts, “When I was a kid, I was watching a show called 240-Robert following a female helicopter rescue pilot; I decided the path that I would pursue.” Throughout his career, Dave has built and flown his own airplane before proceeding to sell. “I’ve had my toe in aviation all the way through,” he passionately shares. “My son wants to be a pilot, and we have purchased an airplane that we are using at the school.” As an Approved Person (AP), Dave signs student pilot permits and performs as a proctor during balloon, private and recreational examinations. Recommending this oppor- tunity to the senior community, Dave enthuses, “This is not a tremendously physically taxing endeavour. Being intellectually challenging, this also keeps you sharp. Still, there are many 80-year-old pilots keeping at it and exercising their brains.” Moreover, Dave voices with delight, “The pilot community is a very good community. We host barbecues throughout the summer, embracing the social component. There is always something to talk about. Sometimes pilots will fly to an airport to experience lunch and conversation in another environment.” About this Flight Centre, Dave elaborates, “We run a modular school compared to an integrated school, offering private, commercial, multi-engine endorsement and more. With the private pilot course, this is a very strong online ground school; you register and can take lessons for up to nine months. Following practice tests and meeting the requirement, you come see me and complete the written test. To pass, you need 60% in four different categories. You can practice the modules in flight, and this concurrent process goes quicker.” Dedicating about a year to earn your private pilot license, pilots can then look online for available timeslots to fly before phoning their dispatchers to book them. These dispatchers have access to their records, and can notify renters when something is due. Dave further expresses his pride in their active group of renters and owners, as they have doubled their flight hours this year. As Dave warmly concludes, “Our flavour of school is different from the others in the area. We have a collegial atmosphere
here. In a relaxed environment, you can learn how to fly, have a coffee in the lounge, view the maps on the table, have a seat in front of the windows and watch the airplanes fly. Anyone is invited to come in, sit and soak it up.” Those with inquiries are welcome to phone the MWFC office at 519-637-8359.
Boomers and Beyond Elgin December 2025 cover St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3 Winner Tom Martin poses with his new hardware! Photo by CVD Photography.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 11
From Over the Hill: December Already by Peter Bloch-Hansen
HOMETOWN REAL ESTATE
The all-wise ‘they’ say that time flies when you’re having fun. I say it flies faster when you don’t have enough. Or when you’re in a hurry. So, absent all
While capturing moments for a lifetime of memories she also enjoys FUN family photography sessions
well into next year. And tomatoes, still ripening nicely, well into October! A sort of planetary daylight saving time? Brushing gently past the fretful issue of global (brace for it) warming, I suggest we embrace the seasonal shift. We can’t do anything about it anyway, and besides, as seniors, surely we’ve developed the patience to wait for summer’s arrival – plenty of time to have the air conditioners serviced. And yet, now that wintry weather is here, it seems just too darn soon! And who’s in a big hurry for snow shovelling anyway? Or car window scraping? I’m assuming our readers are enthusiastic snowball fighters anymore? Well, maybe. Anyway, I choose to be thankful for the wonderful autumn we’ve just enjoyed, and I hope that we have only just enough snow to get us through Christmas, like back when we were kids (forgetting, naturally, about the shovelling). So, urging you all to get your Christmas (local) shopping done early, I wish you all the very best for the season and, God and Trump willing, a wonderful New Year! Peter can be argued with at blochhansenpeter@gmail.com I I
that, how did we get to December so fast? Because our autumn was so beautiful and so-o long? As late as late October, I could loll outdoors sipping afternoon coffee. Even as I sit in my office today in early November, my neighbour’s beech tree is still hoarding her leaves. Sigh: not time to put away the lawn rake yet. Pros and cons: Getting onto the garden when spring rains just won’t quit turning the soil into chilly mud is frustrating and worrisome – will it be too late to for long-growing plants? But then, oh, those long, lovely autumns of beautiful days and gorgeous sunlight. So, the seasons are changing. As early as 2010, standing on the high balcony of the condo apartment I was renting in downtown Toronto, I noticed that the springs were getting longer, cooler and wetter, with a sudden bounce into summer by June. And the autumns were getting longer also, drier and warmer too. And this past autumn was the longest, warmest and driest I can remember. I didn’t need to dig my potatoes and onions until quite late, and they’ll last Owner / Photographer iGuide Operator / Author
While also e
Candice Van Diepen of CVD Photography
le capturing moments for a lifetime of memories she enjoys FUN family photography sessions
While capturing moments for a lifetime of memories she also enjoys FUN family photography sessions While capturing moments for a lifetime of memories she also enjoys FUN family photography sessions
www.cvdphotography.ca
Event Cancellations Is your mortgage due for renewal? Could you benefit from refinancing? Let’s talk about your options!
Merry Christmas & Best Wishes for 2026 Thank you for your trust and support this past year. I look forward to helping with all your real estate needs in the year ahead!
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To all of our friends, have a safe and Merry Christmas RICHARD HADDOW Real Estate Agent Centre City Realty Inc., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated FREE MARKET EVALUATION 519-495-0789 Centre City Realty Inc., Brokerage Trust the professionals for all your moving needs! REEMAN THE MOVER LTD.
As the Old St. Thomas Church undergoes restoration and renewal, our traditional Christmas Eve Services will take a pause this year. Let’s keep the spirit of Christmas alive, please give generously to the Salvation Army of St. Thomas. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Old St. Thomas Church Restoration Trust. Kimberly Langford Mortgage Agent 2 Lic# M23005308 Mortgage Architects Lic# 12728 p. 519-520-2213
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17 Type of Machine gifted to Bellevue 18 Symbolic proof of Santa’s existence 21 Susan’s Christmas wish 22 What month did this movie come out in theatres Down 1 Why Kris replaces parade Santa 2 The film’s main character, Kris 4 Macy’s rival department store 7 What Kris uses to hit Sawyer
9 The lawyer who defends Kris 11 Custodian who helps Kris 12 Department store where Kris works 14 The psychiatrist who doubts Kris 16 Santa sings to a little girl in this language 19 For Kris’ DOB he lists “I’m as old as my tongue and a little bit older than” these 20 The little girl who doubts Santa
Across 3 The annual parade at the film’s start 5 What Kris gets in his beard 6 The building where Kris is examined 8 Macy’s parade organizer, Doris 10 The worst of the ‘isms’ 13 Language that Doris speaks other than English 14 He gets his wife tipsy so Santa can stay with him 15 Actress who played Susan in 1947
May the Christmas Season Bring you Peace and Joy.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 13
Baked as usual by Terry Carroll
In short, there was nothing wrong a few juicy recipes couldn’t fix. Dear Editor, I’m more than delighted to comply. Forthwith, some personal faves anyone can cook. PANCAKES Ingredients: Two eggs, two cups of milk, two tablespoons of oil … from the cupboard, not the garage (the wet ingredients). Two cups of flower (oops, where’s auto- correct?), two teaspoons of baking powder (or two tablespoons?) (the dry ingredients). The secret, let me mansplain, is this: mix wet and dry separately, then add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND, BONEHEAD. The Editor doesn’t like all caps, but you know what? They’re sexy. Authoritative. Soccer moms despise men who never use them. NACHOS Ingredients: Nacho chips, shredded cheese, salsa. IN THAT ORDER. Microwave for 40 to 45 seconds. Serve. OMELETS Beat eggs in a bowl WITH SHELLS REMOVED, BONEHEAD. Chop and add various ingredients to taste. Add shredded cheese and some milk. Fry on hot skillet and attempt to flip once. If the flip fails, rename the concoction SCRAMBLED EGGS. I’m no Podleski sister, born and raised in St. Thomas, with their LooneySpoons Collection, their Less-On-Ya Lasagna, their Itsy-Bitsy Teeny Weeny Colored Polka- Dot Rotini. But there’s sizzle in my recipes, Dear Editor. There’s strength over length. HOT DOGS Enough said. If you crave length, I highly recommend the Josephburg United Church of Christ Cookbook, produced to com- memorate the 75th anniversary of Alberta in 1980. These ladies generated an amazing 1,394 recipes in 45 categories over 328 pages. In the interest of space, I can only offer one tiny, tantalizing taste of their complete gastronomic spectrum. Recipe 952, from Mrs. Frank R Becker. Pineapple Mincemeat Pie: ‘Fill unbaked pie shell with mincemeat and then a layer of crushed pineapple. Criss-cross strips of crust over this. Bake as usual’. Obviously, in small-town Alberta in 1980, any bonehead knew (a) how to make a pie shell (b) the ingredients and skill that go into criss-crossing strips of crust and (c) how long and at what temperature, to bake a pineapple mincemeat pie. Please, please share this column and its recipes with friends and relatives. Somehow, I have to keep The Editor happy, and no pie I can bake will satisfy. 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
During the postal strike of 2025, a memo was hand-delivered by The Editor. I can’t quote it exactly because in frustration, I immediately ripped it up, set it afire and swallowed the ashes. But here’s its flavour: ‘Your column must widen its demographic appeal. Aim for more sizzle, less steak. Heat things up. Appeal to the soccer moms. Since then, I’ve been typing till my fingers bleed, then sleeping fitfully, tossing and turning, trying to discern what The Editor expects. Out of nowhere, it hit me like a soccer ball to the forehead: sizzle; steak; heat; mom. He was metaphorically demanding I create a hunger in the female demographic so intense that readers would be compelled to share the magazine with their friends and relatives of all ages. Get Your ‘Mistle-Toes’ Ready!
Love Your Feet by Pam (226) 236-1810 378 Talbot St., Suite #7/8, St. Thomas www.loveyourfeetbypam.com Whether you are travelling for the winter, or staying home for the holidays, make sure you book an appointment!
Happy Holidays! Wishing you a joyful Christmas filled with warmth and wonder. Thank you for your 2025 support. We can’t wait to share more stories in the New Year! PortStanley FestivalTheatre 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
BOOMERS AND BEYOND – ELGIN
Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 All articles by Geoff Rae unless otherwise noted. Copy Editor: Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood • Writer – Peri Hayes
Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
Page 14 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025
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BADDA BOOM! by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail com
Humans love offering advice; the best often comes from lessons learned pain- fully. Admitting one’s own folly is unden- iably difficult. But think of it this way: Are you really to blame for being wrong if you cannot know any better? Aristotle
believed the universe revolved around the Earth, but we still manage to hold him in high regard. All this to say, be very wary: FB is rife with AI pitches to invest $365 CAD to secure a tidy annuity. Surely, we can trust our most reputable Canadians, right? Wrong! I stand accused. Sadly, too many can’t or won’t admit their folly, and the scammers leverage silence. We shouldn’t shun our responsibility to shield others by hiding in the shadows of shame. The fault lies in our unwillingness to admit it. It’s humbling, but it’s well-earned advice! Further to that is this: When we let go of the importance of being right, we no longer seek confirmation to fill our ego’s needs. We become more open-minded and less loud. When challenged, we listen and respond with questions and then assess with discernment the validity of another opinion. It’s appalling to read the preposterous political posts (despite fact-checking) on social media that persuade no one. According to the Wall Street Journal, the market for longer life is booming— no doubt! The longevity movement’s most ardent advocates are the Baby Boomers, vested as ever, in transforming the stage of life we occupy. While a physician-scientist dismissed the anti-aging trend as absurd, he acknowledged that our refusal to accept the infirmities of previous generations that come with aging can be resisted! WooHoo! This incites my favourite question: What’s your next big thing? Why do I ask? Richard Bolles, a thought leader and personal mentor, wrote The Three Boxes of Life in 1978. Soon after, ‘learning, working, and playing’ became an obsolete concept. Since then, we have integrated all three throughout our lives, which, I believe, contributes to our healthy longevity. This story is apropos and intriguing: “At seventy-two, you’re supposed to fade away. My daughter had my Golden Years all scheduled. So I took my life savings and lit a match.” Clara was a Head Nurse in the ER for forty-five years. When she retired, the silence was deafening. Under the helm of the founder’s grandson, her local diner was failing. She became a partner, and voila! Albeit that’s a big leap, consider that adopting a rescue can be as rewarding! Let me rephrase the question so not to imply a passionate mission is mandatory. What is your ‘raison d’etre’, your reason for being here and now? Raison d’etre calls up our aliveness and keeps our spirits bright. Enjoy peace, joy, and laughter over the holidays and a happy and healthy 2026! As Albert Einstein once opined: ‘When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change’. Badda Bing!
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• Engrave on natural stones • Offer pet memorial stones • Restore older monuments • Order vases and urns 519.633.1591 www.elginmonuments.com Visit our show room at 220 Edward St., St. Thomas
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2025 Page 15
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