Hometown St. Thomas December 2025 Issue 75
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5th, 2025
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6th, 2025
In-store promotions on Indoor Christmas Planters, Winter Boughs, Artificial Wreaths and more! Find the perfect touch of holiday cheer!
MADE-IN-CANADA ART, CRAFT & CURIOSITIES ALMA COLLEGE VARSITY T-SHIRTS & HOODIES VINTAGE FINDS & HISTORICAL RELICS FUN JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES STUFFERS FOR EMPTY STOCKINGS & SOULS
Extended Hours, Open until 7 pm December 5th.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE. ACTUALLY.
For a curated selection of things needful, unique and well designed, visit Revival Studio, St. Thomas’ specialty gift boutique.
Fellows Fernlea Flowers Flowers St. Thomas’ local florist since 1995 175 Sunset Drive • (519) 631-3600 www.fellowfernleaflowers.com
BRING THIS AD INTO THE SHOP AND RECEIVE 20% OFF ANY PURCHASE OF $50.00 OR MORE.
OPEN THURSDAY TO SATURDAY. FOR MORE INFO AND SHOP HOURS, FOLLOW US:
Revival_Studio
RevivalStudioST
377 TALBOT STREET, ST. THOMAS, ON
In-store items only, while supplies last
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7th, 2025
MONDAY, DECEMBER 8th, 2025
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519-631-1919 railwaycityhealthhut.ca 417 Wellington St, in the Elgin Centre 519-631-1919 railwaycityhealthhut.ca 417 Wellington St, in the Elgin Centre
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9th, 2025
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10th, 2025
Tuesday December 9th ONLY! Stop in for Gifts, Stocking Stuffers,and Treats! Spend $10 or more and receive Free Small Chocolate bar OR Spend $20 or more and receive a Free Large Chocolate Bar Enter to win a $25 Gift Card just for shopping that day!
Wednesday December 10th ONLY ALL TOYS & TREATS 25% OFF*
St. Thomas location only. In-store only, while supplies last, can not be combined with other offers. Sorry no rain checks.
159 Ross St, St. Thomas
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11th, 2025
Friday December 12th ONE-DAY ONLY! Friday December 12th ONE-DAY ONLY! FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12th, 2025
Save 10% On All Refillary Products!
Save on a Prepay and Save Water Refill card! Save on a Refill card!
ONE DAY SALE
Thursday December 11
New Christmas Scents Available In-store purchases only, while supplies last!
OPEN Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 5pm Sunday 11am to 4pm NO TAX Jean Event
Simply Pure Water The LOCAL Water Experts
123 Wellington St, St Thomas 519-637-3306 • www.simplypurewater.ca Chris Patriquin Repairs and Service to most makes and models Softeners, Iron Removers, Sterilization P: 519-637-3306 www.simplypurewater.ca
215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca
Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 3
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13th, 2025 PortStanley FestivalTheatre
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14th, 2025
Dec. 14 th SAVE 15% On our Entire Holiday Collection
519-782-4353 www.psft.ca SATURDAY DECEMBER 13 Purchase a gift certificate for 2 tickets to a 2026 summer theatre show (value $ 102.06) for only SAVE $ 20.06 $ 80 ONE DAY ONLY
www.peppertreespice.com Celebrating 15 Years of Flavour Valid Online & In Store Discounts automatically applied at checkout.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 15th, 2025
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16th, 2025
Monday December 15th ONLY Power Up This Christmas! Dewalt 20v 5amp battery Only $131.99* Reg $219.99 Milwaukee 18v 5 amp battery Only $149.39 * Reg. 248.99
when you spend $15 or more *
Tuesday, December 16th ONLY! *St. Thomas location only. $15 before taxes. In store only, while supplies last. 1025 Talbot St, St Thomas 6 am – 7 pm daily (519) 633-2282 • cobsbread.com
39 Burwell Road, St. Thomas, ON (519) 633-5884 • sales@r-safety.ca www.r-safety.ca *While quantities last
Page 4 Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025
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Letter from the Editor I’ve always loved Christmas. To me, it represents so many wonderful things -- kindness, joy, community, and (of course) the smell of Sticky Toffee Pudding in the oven. There’s something about the season that seems to bring out the best in people. As Elvis once sang, Why can’t every day be like Christmas? I often wonder that same thing.
make me excited? Something I could share with friends, or maybe something that helps me make friends. Last year, that meant basketballs and footballs, not the cheapest gifts, but the kind that invite others to join in the fun. This year, I wanted to take that spirit a step further, which is why I created the Advent Calendar of Kindness, found on page 27. Each day, you can scan one of the QR codes for a local charity. If it’s one that speaks to you, it’s easy to donate right then and there. If not, there’s always tomorrow’s square to open. And yes, one of those days comes with a special surprise and a chance to win a prize just before Christmas! Charity doesn’t stop when the decorations come down. Some organizations, like Christmas Care, help families in need at Christmas, others, like Victim Services or the YWC, help people all year long. I hope you’ll take a few minutes to explore and support them in whatever way you can. New this year, I’ve teamed up with local businesses to bring you the 12 Days of Christmas Savings! From Friday, December 5th to Tuesday, December 16th, one store will be featured each day with a special one-day promotion just for our readers. It’s a perfect chance to shop local, support our community, and cross a few more items off your Christmas list. Be sure to check in daily to see who’s featured and what they’re offering. As the old Canadian Tire ad said, “Give like Santa, and save like Scrooge!” From my family to yours, have a very Merry Christmas, a joyful holiday season, and a wonderful New Year. Thank you for reading, and for keeping the spirit of Christmas alive all year long.
Now, before I go on, I’ll preface this story by saying that I loved my dad dearly and miss him every day. But if you polled everyone who knew him, I’m reasonably confident that ‘generous’ wouldn’t crack the top ten adjectives used to describe him. Fair or not, that reputation stuck, except at Christmas. When December rolled around, my dad turned into a regular Saint Nick. Like Scrooge on Christmas morning, he’d suddenly be filled with the spirit of giving. Every year he’d find out which local kids might be in need and make sure they had a toy under the tree. He loved shopping for those kids, and he taught me one important lesson along the way: never buy a toy that needs batteries unless you’re giving a whole pack with it. Parents struggling to make ends meet shouldn’t have to choose between dinner and double-A’s. That lesson stuck with me. These days, I put my Canadian Tire Money to good use, saving it up all year to go on a Black Friday shopping spree for kids and donate what I buy to Christmas Care. I try to think like a 10, 12, or 13-year-old: what gift would
How you can win!
Hometown St. Thomas Magazine has partnered with local businesses to help share the joy of Christmas to local seniors. Search this magazine for this Santa logo, and each time you find him you will see a business who cared to share a smile this Christmas. Each of these Santas represents gifts given to local seniors through the
Smiles for Seniors 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 almost $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 num- ber 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! Hometown St. Thomas
Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 5
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The 2026 St. Thomas Sports Spectacular by Peri Hayes Sean Dyke, Sports Spectacular Event Chair, joined the Sports Spectacular Committee upon moving to St. Thomas in 2004 and has continued his involvement since: “I’ve always been interested in supporting the Special Olympics, and to pair that interest with involvement in one of the city’s best events is an amazing opportunity.” For those who are unfamiliar with the history of this local celebration, Sean details, “The St. Thomas Sports Spectacular started in 1978 and has welcomed some of the biggest names in the world of sports to St. Thomas, offering a night of entertainment and inspiration in support of local Special Olympics and Community Living Elgin.” On Thursday, January 22nd, the annual Sports Spectacular will be facilitated at the St. Anne’s Centre. While the Keynote Speaker has yet to be announced, their growing list of guests includes NHL Hall of Famer, impressive record holder as a defenceman and true Bruins legend, Ray Bourque. For photo opportunities with Bourque, the Calder and Norris Trophies from the Hockey Hall of Fame will be on-site. Also at their head table will be the following: Yvon Barrette – who portrays Goalie, Denis Lemieux in the film, Slap Shot; Fred Ottman – WWE Hall of Famer, otherwise known as ‘Tugboat’ and ‘Typhoon’; Rick Mahorn – former NBA player, highlighted for his time on the Detroit Pistons; Natasha ‘The Nightmare’ Spence – WBA International Boxing Champion; and Mike Wilner – Toronto Baseball Columnist and Broadcaster. As Sean expresses with excitement, “The auction is always a highlight, both live and silent, as is the meet-and-greet at the
beginning with all the head table guests -- who are always willing to share stories and sign autographs.” The delicious food will once again be provided by Kathy’s Catering, about which Sean enthuses, “The meal is always excellent.” Available for $99.00 per seat, tickets are purchasable through the stthomassportsspectacular.com website, where further information about this esteemed event is available. Presented by Hydro One, the St. Thomas Sports Spectacular is one of the grandest events in the city and is organized by an undeniably dedicated and incredibly appreciated committee of volunteers. Those with inquiries about Sports Spectacular are welcome to contact Sean directly by phoning 519-319-9604, or by sending an email to info@stthomassportsspectacular.com.
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Page 6 Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025
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Hilary J. Vaughan B.Sc. (Hons.), LL.B. Barrister & Solicitor 83 Curtis Street St. Thomas, ON N5P 1J3
COMPASSION • WORKMANSHIP • GUARANTEED QUALITY ELGIN Monuments
• Engrave on natural stones • Offer pet memorial stones • Restore older monuments • Order vases and urns 519.633.1591 www.elginmonuments.com
Tel: 519-631-0909 Fax: 519-631-7682 Specializing In: ~ wills, estates, trusts ~ business law ~ real estate & mortgage transactions
Large selection of Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles BRIDGEVIEW SALES & LEASING 1207 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519-633-0240 www.bridgeviewstthomas.ca
Gifts Galore for the Craft Person on your List Fabrics Notions & Accessories
SUNSET PHARMACY 519-637-6307 4-188 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas M-F 9-5:30 • Sat 9-1 • Closed Sunday and Holidays DELIVERY AVAILABLE Julie Lac and Darren Dasovich Fax 519-637-8803 • sunsetpharmacystthomas@gmail.com Paul’s Bicycle Repair & Sports Exchange
519-870-0265 562 Talbot Street, St. Thomas www.msmfabrics.com
AUTO DETAILING and auto Sanitization Take Advantage of our Xmas Carwash Sale!
Sales • Repairs • Accessories
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Makes a Great Gift
Yes, we sharpen skates!
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FREE VACUUM with car wash
Yearly Exterior Car Wash Club Membership Available
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Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 7
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Z 2023M054 St-Thomas Cook Book X-mas 8.0” x 5.0”
The Strength of Community at the Heart of the Holidays by Elgin—St. Thomas—London South MP Andrew Lawton One thing I love to brag about to my colleagues across the country is the incredible sense of community we have here in St. Thomas, Elgin, and Lambeth. Since becoming your Member of Parliament earlier this year, I’ve loved seeing that spirit in action everywhere I go. Whether it’s young people shovelling driveways for neighbours who can’t, residents rallying to support local small businesses, or donors filling the shelves of our food bank to meet record demand, we look out for one another here. That’s what makes this place so special. This spirit of giving takes on even greater meaning as we head into the Christmas season. For many, this is a joyful and busy time filled with family and celebration. But for others, the holidays can bring loneliness or the ache of an empty chair at the table. The rising cost of food, fuel, and housing has made it harder for some families to make ends meet. These challenges are real — and they remind us why community matters so deeply. I’ve made it a personal goal to meet with as many people as I can in my role. This has meant getting to as many local events as possible — no small feat in a riding as large and vibrant as ours. From the Rosy Rhubarb Festival in Shedden and Straffordville’s Watermelon Festival to the Nostalgia Nights Classic Car Show in St. Thomas and Harvestfest in Lambeth, there’s always something happening.
THE TURKEY SHOPPE Order your Fresh Turkey Stop in the store for Frozen Turkeys, Across our region, people continue to step up to help. From volunteers preparing food hampers and serving holiday meals, None of these events would exist without the dedicated volunteers who make them possible. I deeply admire those who so generously give their time and energy to bring people together and strengthen our community.
To all our friends and customers
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Page 8 Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025
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to service clubs organizing toy drives and winter coat collec- tions, to neighbours checking in on one another — these acts of kindness define who we are. Even in challenging times, gen- erosity and compassion con- tinue to shine brightly. As we close out the year, I want to share a brief update on some of the work I’ve been doing on your behalf. Crime Crime remains a significant lo- cal issue, with a relatively small number of repeat offend- ers responsible for the major- ity of police calls. I’ve had nu- merous meetings with police eadership and front-line offi- cers about the problems with federal bail laws that have made it easier for people who belong
My colleagues and I have proposed some solutions gleaned from consultations with municipal leaders and law enforcement, and we hope to implement them as soon as possible. Affordability The cost of living remains one of the most pressing issues for people in our community and across the country. Anyone who goes into a grocery store knows how bad inflation has gotten. I have been calling on the government to scrap the hidden taxes that drive up the cost of food – including the industrial carbon tax and costly fuel standards that hit farmers hard, as well as the excessive federal regulations on food packaging. CN My office has been working on issues with CN infrastructure in St. Thomas since the summer, starting with the repair work done at the First Avenue crossing. The City of St. Thomas, CN, and I have had several meetings and calls about three main areas: the need for track upgrades at First Avenue, the need for an upgrade to the Barwick Street bridge, and the reconnection of the Port Stanley-London rail line. This work remains ongoing, but the City of St. Thomas and I have been glad to see acknowledgement from CN of its obligations. We will continue to press for firm timelines and, more importantly, results. It is a true honour to represent you and bring your voice to Ottawa. I look forward to continuing this work in 2026. My office remains available to help you with any issues you might be having with the federal government. I also welcome the opportunity to meet one-on-one, whether you have a question or suggestion about federal policy, or simply want to say hello. I hope this holiday season is safe, blessed, and enjoyable. From my family to yours, I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I look forward to seeing you in the community in the year ahead!
behind bars to get out on the street. I have been working closely on this issue as a member of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights, which undertook a large bail study this fall. I invited St. Thomas Police Chief Marc Roskamp to testify to ensure our local perspective would be heard, and I have also spoken extensively with Aylmer Police Chief Kyle Johnstone and London Police Chief Thai Truong.
Event Cancellations
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.
Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 9
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Local Goalkeeper Max Harris to Represent Canada at Gold Cup in Florida For most kids, Christmas Break means sleeping in, unwrapping presents, and maybe playing a little shinny in the driveway. But for 11-year-old Max Harris, it means packing his goalie gloves and heading to Florida to represent Canada at the Gold Cup, a prestigious, invitation-only, youth soccer tournament bringing together top young players from across North America. This talented goalkeeper, who plays for Whitecaps London, recently earned the honour after an impressive showing at a tournament in Toronto, where he was named MVP. “I did pretty good,” says Max with a shy grin. “I made it to the Gold Cup in America.” Max’s journey to the Gold Cup started, as it does for many young athletes, with a simple love for the game. “I just wanted to play a sport,” he says. “I tried soccer and I loved it.” What began in Timbit soccer quickly evolved into a serious passion, especially after Max decided to try his hand at goalkeeping. “I was playing defence, and I just wanted to try something new,” he explains. “I tried goalie for the first time, and I just liked it.” Now, two and a half years later, Max commands his goal with confidence well beyond his years. When asked if he got nervous being the only one standing between the ball and the net? Max just shrugs. “Not really. I like diving saves; being part of the team -- all of it.” His father, James Harris, laughs as he recounts how Max found out about his Gold Cup invitation. “We told him he was in trouble first. Then we surprised him by saying he’d made it to the Gold Cup. His face went from panic to pure shock. It was priceless.”
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Page 10 Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025
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Abbi added that his success is a reflection of both his personal effort and the club’s strong de- velopmental program: “Max’s suc- cess reflects his dedication and the coaching culture we’ve built. Our goalkeeper program, led by Mark Haynes, who was recently hired by Halifax Tides FC of the new women’s professional league, is among the best in the country. We’re fortunate to have coaches who bring out the best in our
For Max, this opportunity represents the next step in what has already been a remarkable young career. And behind his growth stands his longtime goalie coach, Mark Haynes, owner of London Elite Goalkeeping and partner coach for Whitecaps London. “I think this is an exciting opportunity for Max to showcase his skillset and abilities on a new stage,” says Mark. “Anytime you get to compete in tournaments and travel, it’s an excellent chance for growth and learning. Most importantly, I hope he takes it all in, both on and off the field.” Mark has trained Max for several years and watched his development with pride. “Max is a great young goalkeeper, full of energy, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn,” he says. “He’s dedicated to his craft, and this tournament will be an exciting stage for him to show what he can do.” The goalkeeper position, Mark explains, is a demanding one. “It’s very intricate, both physically and mentally. You have to show bravery, composure, and resilience. Over the years,” he adds, “Max has developed excellent positional awareness, shot-stopping ability, and distribution. He’s come a long way from not knowing how to stop a ball from rolling under his legs, to saving top-corner and penalty shots.” Max credits Mark for much of that progress. “He helped me a lot,” he says, simply. “Now I can save a lot of shots I couldn’t before.” Whitecaps London President, Abbi Lezizidis, says the club couldn’t be prouder of Max’s achievement: “We’re absolutely thrilled for Max and proud to see him earn this kind of opportunity. While this invitation wasn’t initiated by the club, we fully support Max and his family in pursuing experiences that help him grow and chase his dreams.”
players, both on and off the pitch.” Abbi also spoke about the broader importance of youth soccer. “It’s about more than just the game,” he says. “It teaches teamwork, discipline, and the drive to be your best. Those lessons extend far beyond the pitch. At Whitecaps London and Railway City FC, we’re proud to provide a pathway that helps players grow at every stage, not just to win trophies, but to build the confidence and habits that help them succeed in life.” For Max, though, the focus right now is simple -- enjoy every moment. “I’m really excited,” he says about heading to Florida. “Maybe a little nervous,” he admits, grinning, “But mostly just excited.” From Timbit soccer to representing Canada, Max Harris is living proof of how far passion, hard work and a good save can take you. And while most kids his age are dreaming of snow days, Max is dreaming of clean sheets under the Florida sun.
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Liv Cooks, Locally Owned by Peri Hayes
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
Chef Olivia Healey completed her culinary education in 2008, following which, she was focused in the nutrition department at the St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital (STEGH) for 12 years. After having dedicated time as the Culinary Events Manager at Pepper Tree Spice Co., Olivia remains a returning instructor for cooking clas- ses while simultaneously having launched Liv Cooks in April of this year. This service entails prepared meals on a weekly basis for St. Thomas and area citizens. Each Tuesday afternoon, Olivia delivers orders for pick-up to the desig- nated fridge at CrossFit Elgin, 11 Sparling Road. Using fresh pro- duce and creating each dish to be a well-balanced, macro-friend- ly meal, Olivia sources various in- gredients from local farms. Ex- citedly, she has begun incorporating soups into her flavourful and custom- izable menu -- with orders accepted through the livcooks.ca website.
519-782-4353 www.psft.ca
Happy Holidays ST. THOMAS POLICE SERVICE stps.on.ca 519-631-1224
Merry Christmas
www.fcbe.com (519) 672-8208 6518 Bradish Rd, London Sales, Service, Supplies, Support and a Prosperous New Year “OFTEN COPIED NEVER DUPLICATED”
Olivia offers small event catering, such as baby showers, holiday work parties and in-home dining for bringing the restaurant into your own space. Selections may include cold or hot appetizers, a grazing board, a three to four-course meal and so forth. The menu is therefore modifiable, along with the base price per individual. For those who enjoy hosting, Olivia’s service ultimately alleviates what can be a stress-inducing component of hospitality. Not only does Olivia prepare a memorable meal for your guests, she will take care of the kitchen clean-up afterward: “I aim to leave this space even cleaner.” The Liv Cooks menu changes weekly and when asked what inspires Olivia’s ideas, she graciously responds, “My mom was born in Italy, and the nostalgia mixed with my heritage has definitely influenced my cooking style.” Expressing her appreciation for her familial support, Olivia shares that her mother spends time working alongside her in the kitchen. Creating her own business has been a fulfilling journey for Olivia, who appreciates the flexibility in her schedule for enjoying her son as he grows. Being a personal chef, Olivia celebrates the beauty of food and forging connections. “My love language is acts of service, and seeing somebody enjoy something that I make brings me so much joy. To put the work in for yourself is very rewarding.” Furthermore, she beams with delight to have recently become a snack supplier for Port Stanley Brewing Co. While discussing her ambitions moving forward, Olivia reveals that she has begun designing a Cookbook Club -- which she envisions operating once each season, and will be sharing the details in 2026. To learn more about Liv Cooks, connect with the lovely Olivia through ‘Liv Cooks Meal Service’ on Instagram or via email at olivia@livcooks.ca.
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Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025
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for employee benefits Canada’s #1 plan
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Happy Holidays! May your home be filled with warmth, laughter, and love this season. Thank you for letting me be part of your homeownership journey! www.mortgageweb.ca/BradLister 519-637-2519
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Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 13
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Dine in 519: How Jesse Walker Turned His Love of Local Food into a Movement When you talk to Jesse Walker, it’s easy to see how Dine in 519 became more than a social media account; it became a full-fledged community. What started as a few weekend photo shoots has grown into one of Southwestern Ontario’s most recognizable food platforms, connecting diners to local restaurants across the 519-area code. Jesse, who has family here in Elgin, now calls London home. Explaining why he settled in London after years in Toronto, Jesse says, “I think it was just that perfect mix between a bit of a city vibe with a small-town essence. You can still feel like you know everybody and build a community without having to pay an arm and a leg to live there. It’s a little more affordable, a little more accessible -- that was a big driving force.” Jesse worked in kitchens throughout high school before going to school in Toronto, where he met “an incredible cook” who sparked a deeper passion for food. “That really grew my love for food from just being a fan to actually cooking and creating,” he recalls. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Jesse, who was then working in marketing, decided to use his skills to help struggling restaurants. “I started Dine in 519 when everything was shutting down. I wasn’t charging anyone; I just wanted to build a community resource so people could find great local spots to eat. I thought, if I can use my skill set to grow a brand that supports local, why not?”
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Those early posts, often featuring restaurants from the Covent Garden Market and other London favourites, quickly caught attention. Over time, Jesse’s format evolved from behind- the-camera photography to on-camera videos. “For the first four years, I wasn’t even on camera; it was never meant to be about me. Then one night, I decided to film myself at a spot I’d featured before, and it exploded. People just resonated with that format.” They sure did. Today, Jesse has over 80,000 followers on Instagram and more than 176,000 across platforms. “Face- book’s been growing like a weed lately,” he says. “That’s my older demographic -- all the folks in the smaller towns like Komoka or Port Rowan, they’ve really gotten behind it.” Jesse’s reach has extended far beyond London, but his focus remains true to the 519. “A lot of people don’t realize how big
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local business owners who’ve seen firsthand the ‘519 effect’. For example, one pizza shop in Springfield was struggling to stay open until Jesse’s post went viral. “They haven’t struggled since then,” he says proudly. “They even had to adjust their business model to keep up with the demand.” Despite the attention, Jesse insists Dine in 519 isn’t about money. “I get hundreds of emails a week from chains asking me to post, but I’d rather support small businesses. There are other ways to make a living. I’ve launched ‘merch’, hosted events like Brunch Fest, and I’m working on a podcast with a big media company. But I won’t compromise the integrity of what I’m doing. Once you lose that, it kills the whole point.” His honesty has earned him respect and impact. A single Dine in 519 feature can change the course of a local restaurant’s business. “It’s crazy,” he admits. “You see line-ups out the door at places that were struggling a week earlier. That feeling’s hard to beat.” Still, Jesse is mindful of balance. “I post maybe two spots a week now. If I don’t like a place, I won’t post it. I can have a positive impact, but also a negative one, so I’d rather focus on the good.” With events, new merch, and an upcoming podcast on the way, Jesse’s influence continues to grow, but his focus remains grounded in the community that built him. “At the end of the day, my heart’s in the right place. I’m doing my best to highlight the great spots we have here. My track record’s pretty good,” he says with a grin. Whether it’s a hidden bakery in Komoka, a pizza shop in Springfield, or a gem in Port Stanley, Dine in 519 is proving that local food still has the power to bring people together, one bite, one post, and one story at a time.
the 519-area code really is,” he says. “I get asked if I’ll expand beyond it, but there’s still so much to cover right here.” He’s featured spots from Port Stanley, Springfield, to St. Thomas. “I love Two Forks in Port Stanley; it’s a great spot -- great food, great experience,” and he has built relationships with
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Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 15
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The St. Thomas Jumbo Jets Swim Team by Peri Hayes Head Coach of the St. Thomas Jumbo Jets Swim Team (STJJ), Penny Bosma, introduces: “I consider myself part of a team of Coaches who coach all levels, all hours. I started coaching to help when we moved to the area, and my eldest daughter continued swimming. I have been part of STJJ since 1996.” An incredible outlet for forging lifelong friendships and striving for personal progress, Penny continues, “This sport represents an opportunity to have athletes enjoy the water, obtain swimming proficiency, whole body fitness, sportsmanship and discipline in training as they learn the rules and intricacies of the sport.” Jumbo Jets is an intimate team environment with swimmers of various stages, aged 6 to 21 with few exceptions. This environment ultimately allows team members to bond with their coaches, fellow swimmers and swim families. As Penny encourages, “There are many slots to allow families to make practices which are Monday through Friday from 6:00 am to 7:30 am, as well as Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings -- depending on age and ability of the swimmer. We compete once a month, plus meets for qualifiers.” Moreover, all ages are welcome to participate in these meets once deemed prepared for a particular competition. As Penny further highlights, “All athletes can compete at all levels, and can qualify to participate in Regional, Provincial and National level championships. STJJ provides an opportunity to represent St. Thomas on a competitive team, and to enjoy being a part of the Canadian Swim culture as a competitive swimmer.” We hope your holiday ROCKS! Merry Christmas, and see you next season.
Melissa Krawecki, a parent and sponsor of the team through small business, shares her experience: “The reality is, my girl hit the pool at 10. I love swim for my daughter, as it is the perfect blend of an individual sport that is played on a team. She competes against her own best time of that previous particular swim, yet she belongs to a team with a sense of
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belonging -- cheering on her teammates, learning from one another and having that camaraderie.” “I have a soft spot for STJJ,” Melissa enthuses, “I have seen how the team has grown over the years. I love its commitment to inclusivity and building up kids to be very good teammates. This is a team where all kids belong. All ages and abilities are welcome, and if you are interested in having your kid come and try out, they are welcome to at any point in time. My daughter is so proud of her team.” Meanwhile, Siena Begemann is a Senior Swimmer and coach- in-training, who offers, “I have been swimming for 13 years, and coaching for approximately two years. Swimming, for me personally, represents exercise and active living. I do it for the joy of the sport, as well as the community that comes with being on a team. Swimming means competing at meets and setting goals for myself, which I work towards accomplishing.” “I was drawn to swimming at a young age because of my love of being in the water and wanting to swim with my older brother -- who was already on the team. As I am moving towards a coaching role, I am motivated by the successes of the swimmers I coach.” “The Jumbo Jets are open to swimmers of all ages and all abilities. We have para swimmers, and we have practice opportunities in the mornings and evenings. I recommend the Jumbo Jets as a swim team because it offers kids a chance to make friends, learn how to train and compete, and have fun while playing a sport. It teaches motor skills, gives opportunities to be a member of a community and encourages active living.” With the local YMCA as their homebase, the swim season is ongoing from September to June. For discovering more about this club, visit the stjj.ca website.
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Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 17
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Beth & Barry Fellinger’s Holiday Display by Peri Hayes For 35 years, Beth and Barry Fellinger have been dedicated to curating their holiday display throughout the interior and exterior of their home. Specifically, the wedded couple have honed in on their snowpeople collection. Beth and Barry purchased their first one, jolly and blue, when their daughter was merely three years old. At approximately 1,060 pieces and counting, their lively presentation continues to grow. For the pair, this tradition is about creating holiday moments and cherished memories, while honouring the spirit of Christmas. Beth narrates a time during which she and Barry donated one of their Christmas trees to someone in need, proceeding to create another in its place. What has become a passion project for the Fellinger’s has led to an annual Open House, for which they invite friends to tour through their home and view their immersive display. Beth voices, “We recognized that there are people who experience a difficult year -- being alone, missing a loved one and so forth. We made our space open to anyone looking for their fix of Christmas. It’s about not being afraid to celebrate, and allowing yourself to have some fun.” A couple more decorations have been added to their home this year, about which Beth conveys, “I love that they’re all their own, individual snowmen. No two are the same, unless they are a set.” There are two featured book trees, one of which is filled with children’s literature. Also throughout their home includes the following: stockings for their family members; 12 Days of Christmas Snowmen; an advent calendar containing a
trinket in each nook; their own holiday chess sets; a festively decorated dollhouse; their latest focal wall; gadgets that sing, characters that dance and more. Beth beams with delight while describing, “There isn’t a corner in this house that doesn’t have a snowman. When our grandkids visit, their eyes are so bright. Nothing is off limits, as they will travel from button to button throughout the house.” Over the years, friends and members of the community have graciously donated pieces toward Beth and Barry’s collection.
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Page 18 Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025
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Certain additions have been crafted by dear friends from sentimental materials, such as their daughter’s flower girl dresses. Each room, designed with a designated theme or coordinated colour scheme, has also evolved over time. Involved in year-long sourcing for their beloved project, Beth enthuses, “It’s way too much fun!” Supporting Canadian businesses has been enjoyable for Beth and Barry, further detailing that not all of their ornaments are exclusively Christmas -- many are seasonal for effectively bringing winter magic into their space. Beth wears a smile while inviting: “If someone is having a tough year and wants to see some snowmen, feel free to contact us at uglycouchcafe@gmail.com.”
Hometown St. Thomas December Cover Baby’s first visit with Santa! Mom and Baby visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Horton Christmas Market. Photo by Geoff Rae.
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Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 19
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