Hometown St.Thomas November 2026

November 2026 Issue 84 Hometown St. Thomas

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Your generosity helped make our Ruby Jubilee celebration an unforgettable evening, honouring 40 years of community support.

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Page 2 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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The 2026 Gerald Inch Memorial Award for Outstanding HRAI Chapter Leadership by Peri Hayes Steve Gilbert is the ongoing President in his third year of Peter Inch and Associates Heating + Air Conditioning. For several years and counting, Steve Gilbert has been involved with Peter Inch and Associates Heating + Air Conditioning. Meanwhile, Steve has also been the local Chapter President of the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI) for approximately six years. Established in the 1960s, the HRAI of Canada is a non-profit trade association which represents contractors, manufacturers and wholesalers in the HVACR industry on a national scale. Recently, Steve became the 2026 recipient of the Gerald Inch Memorial Award for Outstanding HRAI Chapter Leadership. In honour of Gerald Inch, a founding member of the London HRAI Chapter, this nomination-based award celebrates dedication to the industry and to the community. As a uniquely local connection, both the late Gerald and Steve hold roots in St. Thomas. This acknowledgement specifically focuses on volunteers who help to keep chapters, and local or regional groups viable. About his continued passion for this industry, Steve enthuses, “I really have a love for learning, and I also have a love to serve. I strive to give back where I can, using all that I have learned.” The dependable Steve has been immersed in his career for 33 years, receiving this latest award at their Annual General Meeting which was held in Gatineau, Québec. Celebrated in Halifax last year, Steve describes the ways in which this event moves from province to province and will be facilitated in Winnipeg, 2027. As Vanessa Holmes-Bell, Partner and Chief Financial Officer at Peter Inch + Associates, shares, “Steve’s achievement is a wonderful example of the principles that guide our business as the President of Peter Inch and Associates Heating & Air Conditioning, and the President of the local HRAI Chapter.” Reflected in the spirit of this award is Steve’s commitment to support the HVAC industry as he spreads his sunshine across the community. Asked what this recognition on a national scale means to Steve, he pensively replies, “It’s quite humbling to be recognized by your peers in this industry. I get to be involved with all of the local contractors, and I appreciate that we are all trying to

grow. I strive to create improvement for those in our industry.” In particular, Steve has seized opportunities to travel to Ottawa and Queen’s Park for Day on the Hill, meeting with politicians and ministers for thoughtful conversation surrounding advancing the HVAC industry, strengthening the workforce and supporting their rebate programs. “Our goal is to be here as a friendly advisor.” Humbled and honoured, this is Steve’s debut experience accepting this meaningful award. With a full heart, he graciously concludes, “This is honestly something that I love to do, and it’s overwhelming to be recognized.” Steve Gilbert is on the right.

Steve (left) accepting his award.

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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 3

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Letter from the Editor Growing up in London, I always felt fortunate to have excellent hospitals close to home, with several to choose from. I visited a few over the years for various reasons, and I remember appreciating how lucky I was to have such great medical care nearby.

ANNOUNCING THE

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When I moved to St. Thomas, I was thrilled to discover that same reas- surance here. The St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH) is an amazing community resource, and I have always been happy to support it however I can. In 2020, that appreciation became much more personal. A surprising medical condition landed me in the hospital for a few weeks. It certainly wasn’t how I had planned to spend my time, but the experience gave me a new perspective on just how much goes into caring for our community. Once I was finally able to get up and walk around, I began to discover how much of the hospital exists beyond the de- partments most of us usually see. For many people, their experience with STEGH involves taking a sick child to the Emergency Department, going for an X-ray, or welcoming a baby with the help of the maternity team. We are thankful those services are there when we need them, but we might not think about everything happening behind the scenes. A hospital is much more than doctors and nurses. It is also the people preparing meals, sterilizing equipment, keeping rooms clean, maintaining the building, organizing supplies, and performing countless other jobs that make patient care possible. Patients need nutritious meals. Medical teams need clean, properly prepared equipment. Every department contributes to the work of the others. That is why, beginning with our October issue, Hometown St. Thomas launched a series highlighting the departments that make STEGH what it is. Over what will likely be the next few years, we hope to introduce you to the people and work throughout our hospital. We will visit familiar departments that deserve our appreciation, while also shining a light on teams whose contributions may be less visible but are just as essential. Their stories deserve to be told, and their efforts deserve to be recognized. Along the way, we also hope to learn about their needs. Under- standing what could help a department work more effectively gives us an opportunity to consider how our community might help them achieve their goals. I often say we are lucky to have such an amazing hospital close to home. But what makes STEGH special isn’t simply luck. It is the hard work, dedication, and skill of countless people who show up every day to care for us and support one another. I hope you will follow along as we get to know them better. There are so many people we can help celebrate. It is an old slogan, but one I still like: It’s our hospital.

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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 5

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From There to Here: Shyianne and Cody by Peri Hayes Over four years ago, Shyianne Kersey and Cody Edwards were living in London and had been apartment hunting when they widened their search and were led to St. Thomas. “We did a couple viewings until we found a place that we loved,” the pair reflect. “We would often drive down Talbot Street, and we thought it was funny when the Burger King sign read, ‘Closed, she gone’. We went to Boston Pizza a few times as well, and we slowly became more intrigued in how calm and peaceful it was here.” Shyianne is a Child Development Apprentice with the YWCA, while Cody is enrolled in his Honours Bachelor Degree in Digital Marketing through Fanshawe College. Considering their St. Thomas experience thus far, Shyianne earnestly expresses, “After we moved in and settled, I went through culture shock. I didn’t fully understand what I was feeling at the time. We started noticing that this was really a small town; everyone seemed to know everybody and word travelled quickly. It was quiet most of the time, and we felt a bit lonely. We tried to find a community at a church; this quickly went south. We lived close to Lake Margaret and no matter what was going on in our lives, we found peace at that lake: we would spend the day sitting by the water; we would walk the trails by the marsh and look for turtles; we would jog there sometimes as well -- it became our safety net. We began to see lots of friendly faces and recognize more people from our small town.” The couple highlight a few more of their favourite local spots, including the Dalewood trails, Joe Thornton Community Centre, and Why Not Cookies Café. Shyianne and Cody reveal that they are continuing to develop their sense of community, candidly conveying, “As you grow older, it’s incredibly hard to create true, authentic friendships. Our connections have grown throughout the past few years, from places we’ve worked and various local hospitality that we have visited.” Presently, Shyianne and Cody are interested in joining a sports club. As the pair lovingly conclude, “We have adjusted to the small community; it truly does feel like home here. After over four

years of living here, we are still discovering St. Thomas’ hidden gems. We are looking forward to building lasting connections, and we hope to adopt a dog someday in the future.” During our photo shoot which features the aforementioned Lake Margaret, I dropped the camera’s front lens cap (apologies, Geoff); a swift drop down the grate. Through the teamwork demonstrated by Shyianne and Cody, as well as the lovely local resident who walked us over our choice of tweezers, this moment could have been stressful and instead resulted in a fun side quest – with the lens cap retrieved. This experience offers a reminder of how compassion matters, humanity matters. When someone could use a lending hand, consider how you celebrate camaraderie and community. To the caring individuals involved in this story, thank you for celebrating community with me -- thank you for being kind.

Hometown St. Thomas November Cover Scenes from the Briwood Farm Market 35th Anniversary Party held September 24th at the CASO station. Photos by CVD Photogr aphy.

November 2026 Issue 84 Hometown St. Thomas

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Page 6 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 7

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M&M Food Market Celebrates 40 Years in St. Thomas by Peri Hayes Mother-daughter duo, Kristen Baker and Cheryl Martin, are the dedicated co-owners of M&M Food Market in St. Thomas. Kristen charismatically introduces, “Forty years ago, Mom (Cheryl) was a teacher and a mother raising three children. Looking for a career change that would allow her to support her family, she decided to take a chance and open an M&M Food Market. I spent years working in the store and learning every part of the business before eventually joining my mom as a co- owner 15 years ago.” The pair reflect: “The products, technology, and day-to-day operations have come a long way from those early days of weigh- ing and sealing packages by hand -- but, some things have never changed: the importance of our customers, our employees, and the relationships we have built within our community.” “So, for me,” Kristen continues, “becoming an owner wasn’t something I suddenly decided to do -- it was something I grew into. When I think about my role today, I don’t just think of myself as an owner. I feel like I am helping carry forward something my mom started.” Over the years, the local M&M team has watched their students grow up and now their children are on board. Kristen beams about how significantly their employees create a positive experience for their valued customers. In expressing her gratitude, she voices, “When we celebrate 40 years, we’re really celebrating the people who have been part of the journey -- their loyalty, friendship and support mean more to us than we could ever put into words.”

Once located on Elm Street for 31 years, M&M Food Market moved nine years ago to their current location on Wellington. Fulfilled by their sense of connection and community roots, Kristen cheers, “I’m incredibly proud of our staff. We currently have 16 employees, and our team has always been such an important part of what makes our store special. My daughter, Kali, has also worked at the store since she was 14 years old, growing up around the same business that has been such a big part of her mom and grandmother’s life.” M&M Food Market has been reviewing its portfolio and seeking ways to improve products, which includes reducing sodium, as well as removing artificial flavours and artificial food colouring from all products: “I think that’s exciting because it shows that we can continue to evolve, while maintaining the convenience, quality, and great taste that customers expect.

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Page 8 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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We aren’t just selling food; we are helping people with everyday meal solutions.” This November marks the 40th anniversary of M&M Food Market in St. Thomas, and as Kristen delightedly declares, “We are looking forward to celebrating with the people who have supported us throughout the years and who have made M&M what it is today. More than anything, we want the celebration to feel more like a thank you!” M&M Food Market is located at 308 Wellington Street, and can be reached by phone at 519-631-8547. As Kristen offers on behalf of this family business, “Our success has been because

of our customers, our employees — we have and always have had an amazing team — and our community. Personally, I am excited to continue the family legacy my mom started. Fifteen years ago, I became an owner. Now, 40 years after my mom opened the doors, I feel incredibly fortunate to still be here carrying that forward.” Jenn Eggleston Photography is credited for the accompanying photo of Kristen and Cheryl.

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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 9

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Christmas Bazaar & Market Listings! Saturday, November 7th

Trust the professionals for all your moving needs! REEMAN THE MOVER LTD.

Central United Church Bazaar 135 Wellington St., St. Thomas 8 am – 12:30 pm

Christmas shop, gift baskets, bake table/deli, attic treasures, Christmas arrangements, sewing & knitting and more. Large silent auction on the main level. Wheelchair accessible with Interac available. Holy Angels Christmas Carols Bazaar 502 Talbot St., St Thomas 9 am – Noon Something for everyone on your list! From Attic Treasures to Crafts, Bake Table, Canning, Toys and Sandwich/Soup Lunch. St. Thomas Christian Church Christmas Bazaar 451 Wellington Street 8 am – 12 pm Christmas decor, knitwear, woodwork, candles, clothing, jewelry, baked goods, prepared meals, soup & chilli, coffee & tea, raffle & 50/50 with proceeds from the 50/50 going to support Hospice of Elgin. Friday, November 13th The Merry Market The Nook – 567 Talbot St., St. Thomas 5 pm – 8 pm The perfect time to do some Holiday shopping! Taking place during Light Up Talbot, this vendor market will have a little something for everyone.

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Saturday, November 14th Cranberry Courtyard Christmas Market St. Hilda’s –St. Luke’s Church, 185 Elm Street, St. Thomas 9 am – 1 pm Handmade Christmas Show & Sale Masonic Centre of Elgin, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line 10 am – 3 pm Returning for the 10th annual Handmade Christmas Show & Sale. This Christmas tradition featuring locally made artisanal products from local vendors, all in time for the holidays. St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce Youth Market Ignite Youth Centre, 745 Talbot St. 10 am – 12 pm The Chamber is bringing together a market featuring youth entre- preneurs and makers!

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Print Ad Memorial Arena, 80 Wilson Ave, 519-637-0710 If you need our services, register at the arena. Bring all ID (for you and any chidren who live with you who you are registering), Proof of Address, Proof of Income and register early. Our toy operations (where physical donations may be left) will be at Elgin Centre Mall. We are especially in need of: We are especially in need of the following items: peanut butter / jam, cereal (no sugar please), fruit / pudding cups, canned meat/fish, canned (low sugar) fruit, hearty soups / stews, canned vegetables, pasta / sauce, dried soups, stuffing mix, kraft dinner,Lego, science kits, children’s craft/sewing/ painting kits, baby toys and children’s novels. Visit us at: www.christmascarestthomas.com. Registration Nov. 9 to Dec. 10 Monday to Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Elgin Centre Mall 519-637-0710 Peanut butter/jam cereal (no sugar please) Fruit/pudding cups Hearty soups/stews Donations of food and new, unused toys can be dropped off at the auditorium or at drop boxes around town including Elgin Centre. Please consider donations of club packs or cases of food as this requires less sorting than individual packages. Please also consider monetary donations as with bulk purchasing we can stretch our grocery dollars (buying a skid of dressing is cheaper than individuals donating a box each). Watch for us at the Santa Claus Parade! Interested in volunteering? Contact us at info@christmascarestthomas.com if you are willing. canned meat/fish canned vegetables Pasta/sauce jello Soups stuffing mix KD If you need our services, you can register at the mall. Bring all ID and register early. Donations of non-perishable food, new toys and money will be accepted at the Elgin Centre Mall or at drop boxes around town. Also watch for our food drives happening this month. See us at the Santa Claus parade where donations will be gratefully accepted. Scan me to donate now! SCAN ME TO DONATE NOW Visit us at: www.christmascarestthomas.com Registration Tuesday November 3 to Tuesday December 8 Weekdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We respectfully request that donations be made by November 25 if at all possible. St. Thomas Community Christian School Christmas Fair STCCS North Campus, 77 Fairview Ave 10 am – 2 pm Local vendors and craft tables, Christmas Room, fresh fruit and veggies, kids’ games and prizes, baked goods and other treats Saturday, November 28th Salvation Army Christmas Market 380 Elm St., St. Thomas 9 am – 3 pm Large variety of vendors. Port Stanley Arena Annual Christmas Bazaar 332 Carlow Rd,, Port Stanley 9 am – 1 pm Local makers, artisans and vendors. Something for everyone with refreshments available. Saturday, November 28th & Sunday, November 29th Christkindl Market Saxonia Hall German Canadian Club, 522 Talbot St W., Aylmer, 10 am – 4 pm Vendors and Saxonia Hall Brunch and Frozen Food will be available for purchase on both days. Saturday December 5th St. Thomas Anglican Church Christmas Market 20 Flora St., St. Thomas. 8 am – 1 pm Join us to get some great Christmas gifts. A Breakfast and Lunch Cafe open for your enjoyment.

Friday, November 20th Locke’s Holiday Shopping Night Locke’s Public School, Gymnasium, 20 S. Edgeware Rd., St Thomas 5 pm – 8 pm Local vendors, free admission, but we will be collecting non- perishable food. Saturday, November 21st Christmas Craft Sale St. Thomas Senior Centre, 225 Chestnut St., St. Thomas 8 am – 12 pm Vendors, baked goods and crafts.

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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 11

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Briwood’s Fourth Holiday Cookbook Serves Up Community Favourites The holiday season is about to get a little more delicious with the return of the Briwood Farm Market Holiday Cookbook . Now in its fourth edition, the free cookbook will be available at the beginning of November at Briwood Farm Market, 1030 Talbot Street in St. Thomas. Created in collaboration with Hometown St. Thomas magazine, the annual cookbook brings together recipes from Briwood customers, community members and my own kitchen. The result is a collection that celebrates local connections while offering plenty of inspiration for holiday entertaining and everyday cooking. Since its launch in 2023, the cookbook has become a welcome addition to kitchens across St. Thomas and Elgin County. Last year’s edition disappeared from the shelves quite quickly, showing how much readers appreciate a collection of recipes shared by people in their own community. This year’s release also comes during a special anniversary for Briwood Farm Market, which is celebrating 35 years of serving St. Thomas and the surrounding area. Brian, Sherwood and their team have built lasting relationships with customers while supporting local farmers, producers and creators. From fresh meat, cheese and dairy, to vegetables, fruit and locally made products, Briwood offers plenty of ingredients to help bring the cookbook’s recipes to life. The project extends that connection beyond the market, giving customers another way to enjoy good food and share it with family and friends. Inside the fourth edition, readers will find dishes suited to a var - iety of occasions. There are recipes for festive gatherings, com-

forting meals and sweet treats, along with ideas for the busy weeks leading up to Christmas. Whether you are an experienced cook or just finding your confidence in the kitchen, the empha- sis is on delicious recipes that are easy to follow. Among the discoveries that became favourites in my own household this year are creamy Basque cheese- cake and spicy peanut noodles. They reflect the

Holiday Cookbook – 2026 –

2026 BRIWOOD HOLIDAY COOKBOOK – 1 – HOMETOWN ST. THOMAS cookbook’s mix of holiday inspiration and dishes worth enjoy- ing throughout the year. A new recipe tried for Christmas may quickly earn a place in the regular dinner rotation. Community contributions remain at the heart of the project. Sharing a cherished family recipe or a recent discovery gives others the opportunity to enjoy it, creating new connections and perhaps a few new traditions around the table. Readers are also encouraged to share feedback about the recipes they try. Those comments and favourites could help inspire future editions. With copies available free and demand continuing to grow, an early visit is a good idea. Pick up the fourth annual Briwood Farm Market Holiday Cookbook the first week of November and discover something delicious to share, whether it is for a festive Christmas celebration or a quiet evening at home with family.

519-633-9691 1030 Talbot Street St. Thomas Open Monday to Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday and Sunday 8am - 6pm ORDER YOUR FRESH TURKEY by December 17th! Brian & Sherwood would like to thank everyone who came out to their anniversary celebration. They would also like to thank myFM and Hometown St. Thomas for hosting it.

Bulk Baking Goods, Raisins, Nuts, Chocolate Chips, Cherries and Much More!

Fresh local squash, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, parsnip, and all the vegetables of the season.

Holiday Cookbook – 2026 –

Pick up your copy of the 2026 Briwood Holiday Cookbook out now! 2026 BRIWOOD HOLIDAY COOKBOOK – 1 – HOMETOWN ST. THOMAS

Your holiday décor in store! Fresh cut local Christmas trees, potted trees, garland and more! Freshness, Quality, Satisfaction and the Ultimate Customer Service... Always!

Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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Geerlinks Home Hardware Hammers and Heels by Peri Hayes Paige Downey, Marketing Director at Geerlinks Home Hardware Building Centre, beams about their upcoming Hammers and Heels. This event has been celebrated in various iterations since 2016, evolving from the formerly known Ladies’ Night -- which has been offered as a means for members of the community to come together and discover the world of home improvement. “This idea,” Paige describes, “stemmed from women tradition- ally experiencing discomfort visiting the hardware store.” The event features an array of store vendors, insightful product demonstrations, and the participation of local businesses ranging from catering companies to Railway City Tourism. Hammers and Heels gives people the opportunity to learn and be hands on, while also talking with other community members and businesses all in one spot. “This is a hub for all things community.” Presented as a holiday market following the pandemic, Geerlinks Home Hardware was intentional last year about continuing this seasonal spirit while also honouring the demonstration aspect which people have grown to enjoy and value. Paige proceeds to share, “This event has a history of being in partnership with a local charity, the St. Thomas Elgin Food Bank.” In years past, their donation piles have been loaded to the brim with food contributions from members of the public. In continuing this collaboration, guests of Hammers and Heels are encouraged to bring a non-perishable item or monetary gift as their appreciated entrance fee. Asked what personally excites Paige about this opportunity in the community, she passionately replies, “I love the atmosphere of this event. The store is a fun place to begin with. On this night

in particular, seeing everybody come together in festive cheer is my favourite. I see people learning something new, shopping locally, getting inspired, eating charcuterie; I see strangers sit together and become friends.” Paige notes that food and beverage options will be available for purchase. As Paige cheerfully concludes, “All are welcome! There’s a little something for everyone at this event, including lots of prizes and giveaways. Come have a fun night on the town with us -- maybe you will win something, and that could be your Christmas present.” Visit Geerlinks Home Hardware at 295 Wellington Street this November 12th from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm. The store will be closed for an hour in advance during their set-up period, thereafter bestowing goodie bags to the first 100 guests. Email Paige at marketing. geerlinks@homehardware.ca with inquiries about Hammers and Heels, or phone the store at 519-631-2910. Moreover, explore the ‘Hammers and Heels: Annual Ladies Night and Holiday Market’ event page on Facebook for further information.

Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 13

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Sock Hop Marks a Milestone in Generosity

products in 2019. Donations have also supported Christmas Care, and in 2025 the event began accepting items such as new slippers and pyjamas for Smiles for Seniors at Christmas. This year, guests can bring hygiene products and gently worn, clean winter clothing, new personal wear to receive tickets for additional, free prize draws. For Rose, socks provide something both practical and personal. “Foremost, socks are about warmth and hygiene,” she says. “Then there is that real good feeling and comfort you get when wearing clean socks.” That same sense of comfort carries through the afternoon, as neighbours gather to help people facing difficult times. Every donation adds to a collective effort that has grown since the first dance, giving guests a chance to enjoy themselves while making a difference close to home. “Seeing our community coming out and supporting events like ours,” Rose says, “really warms my heart.” For a fundraiser built around socks, it is fitting that its greatest achievement is helping a community feel a little warmer.

A package of new socks can do more than warm someone’s feet. At the Sock Hop with a Twist, it also opens the door to an afternoon of music, dancing and community generosity. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the fundraiser returns on Sunday, November 15, at the St. Anne’s Centre, with doors opening at noon, with entertainment from 1 to 5 pm. Hogwild Band and Friends and Guppy DJ Services will keep the music going, while a cash bar and kitchen menu will be available. Admission is a package of new socks, collected at the door. Rose Gibson and her husband, Dan, founded the event in 2016 after conversations with local organizations revealed a simple need: “Socks,” Rose recalls hearing without hesitation, for everyone from infants to adults. They were among the most requested items, yet among the least donated. Dan suggested combining her love of organizing events with a dance that could help purchase socks. Family and friends quickly embraced the idea. Before the first event was announced, admission changed from cash to sock donations, a tradition that continues today. Over its first nine years, the Sock Hop collected more than $80,000 worth of donated goods, including an assigned value for gently worn items. Those contributions have included socks, clothing, toys, food, blankets and personal care products. “We try to connect to as many organizations or groups in St. Thomas and across Elgin County,” Rose explains. As community needs have grown, so has the event’s collection list. Warm clothing was added in 2018, followed by new personal wear and hygiene

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Page 14 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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BBBS’ Breakfast with Santa and Festive Fun by Peri Hayes

will be lending a hand in the kitchen to help prepare and serve our pancake breakfast. We’re also incredibly thankful for the many volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters who are helping bring this festive celebration to life.” Breakfast with Santa and Festive Fun will be held on Saturday, December 5th at the St. Anne’s Centre, 20 Morrison Drive. “Proceeds will support programs through BBBS and NOK

Courtney O’Rourke, Marketing and Community Engagement Coordinator at Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Thomas-Elgin (BBBS), announces their upcoming festive event: “Our Breakfast with Santa fundraiser brings families together for a morning of

holiday fun, while supporting BBBS and Neighbourhood Outreach for Kids Elgin (NOK). Families can enjoy a delicious breakfast, meet Santa, take photos, and explore our Holiday Workshop making crafts and keepsakes.” This event for the whole family entails several one- hour seatings throughout the morning, beginning at 8:00 am. This will allow for plenty of time to enjoy breakfast, visit with Santa, and participate in the engaging activities. BBBS is excited to be creating magic in the community this holiday season, as Courtney expresses, “So much goes into preparing for the holidays, and we hope this event gives families a chance to simply enjoy the season and make some special memories. It means

that help children and youth in our community feel connected, supported and valued.” To attend this immersive experience, tickets cost $35.00 for children and $15.00 for adults, which can be purchased through the bbbselgin.org website. “It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season, while supporting two local organizations that make a difference for children and families in our com- munity,” Courtney charismatically cheers. As Courtney concludes in festive spirit, “This is our first year hosting Breakfast with Santa in partnership with NOK, and we’re excited to bring this new celebration to our community. We hope it becomes a holiday tradition families look forward to for years to come!”

With inquiries about his event, contact Courtney at courtney. orourke@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca or phone 519-633-3830 ext. 204.

even more knowing that, while having fun, they’re also helping support local children through BBBS and NOK.” As passionate as these facilitators are about their vision, they are grateful for the abundant support received from the public: “Breakfast with Santa is presented in partnership with NOK, and we’re so grateful to the Optimist Club of St. Thomas -- whose volunteers

Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 15

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A Little Christmas Magic at Horton Market

Live music will begin at 10 am and continue all day, while returning artist Bronaugh Morgan will share her chalk art. Bonjour & Yum will roast chestnuts, with proceeds supporting a local charity. The market will also be a licensed event, with mulled wine from Hounds of Erie and beer from Caps Off and Railway City Brewing. For Monique, the celebration means much more than checking gifts off a list. “These vendors put so much time, creativity and care into their products, and the Horton Christmas Market gives them a platform to showcase that work and connect directly with the people who appreciate it.” Together with Light Up Talbot on Friday night, the market helps usher in the holidays. “To me, with Light Up Talbot Friday night and the Horton Christmas Market Saturday, that’s the kick-off to the Christmas Season,” says Monique. “There is a sense of connection and community.” Visitors are reminded that overflow parking is available at 800 Talbot Street, along with City parking lots and street parking. Please do not park in the Food Basics or Bulk Barn lots. Bring your shopping list, your appetite and Christmas spirit, and enjoy a day celebrating the people who make shopping local so rewarding.

Christmas shopping comes with a helping of community spirit at the Horton Christmas Market, returning Saturday, November 14, from 10 am to 4 pm at Horton Market, 10 Manitoba Street in St. Thomas. Now in its sixth year, the annual family-friendly event will welcome more than 110 local food and artisan vendors, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to find something special for the people on their Christmas lists. “The Horton Christmas Market is a very well-attended annual event that market-goers and vendors look forward to each year,” says Monique Clark, Horton Market Coordinator. “It’s being part of a market community that believes in shopping local.” Shoppers can browse baking, woodworking, pottery, knitting and crocheting, produce, meats and cheeses, and much more. Whether your list calls for a handmade gift or something delicious for holiday entertaining, there will be plenty to explore. There is also good reason to arrive hungry. Ready-to-serve food vendors include The Galley 519, Bonjour & Yum, Lotus Thai and Taco House Co., offering options for breakfast, lunch or a snack between shopping stops. Families will find a new addition this year: a free ornament- making station for children. Free face painting will also be available, and Santa will be at the market throughout the day. A festive selfie station offers another opportunity to capture a holiday memory.

175 Sunset Drive St. Thomas local florist since 1995 Fellows Fernlea Flowers (519) 631-3600 www.fellowsfernleaflowers.com Before the Snow Flies, Let Your Love Bloom Order, or stop in for your winter topper today!

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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026

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Here Comes Santa Claus Christmas magic will return to downtown St. Thomas on Saturday, November 21, at 6 pm, as the 40th Annual St. Thomas Optimist Santa Claus Parade brings families together for an evening of music, colourful floats and holiday cheer. The route begins at First Street, heads west down Talbot and ends at Elgin. This year’s theme, Christmas in Whoville, invites participants to draw inspiration from the familiar Christmas classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas , with plenty of possibilities for imaginative decorations and festive characters. Parade committee chair Al Holt says choosing a theme is a collaborative process, with ideas often taking shape before the previous year’s parade has even finished. For the Optimists, continuing this beloved tradition is an important part of serving their community. “That’s a great community event,” says Al. A seven-member committee guides the planning, but parade day brings together the broader club and community volunteers. More than 25 volunteers help with the event, while preparations stretch across much of the year, becoming particularly busy after Labour Day. Optimist Earl Taylor emphasizes that the parade’s success depends on the support of many community partners, including St. Thomas Police Service, the St. Thomas Fire Department, City staff and volunteers. Their help with road closures, crowd management, and other arrangements makes the evening possible. “It’s not just up to us, that’s for sure,” says Earl.

Music will once again be a highlight, with the Burlington Teen Tour Band returning to entertain spectators. Al says the youth marching band puts on a great show and has participated several times over the years. The St. Thomas Police Pipe Band is also part of the musical lineup. Spectators can also bring food donations or cash for firefighters and volunteers to collect at the beginning of the parade, which will be donated to Christmas Care. Of course, any of the kids who want to get their letters to Santa can also bring them, as carriers from Canada Post will be collecting them and delivering them straight to the big man himself. For Al, however, after months of meetings and preparations, the evening’s greatest reward comes when Santa arrives in that familiar red suit. “The kids’ reactions to Santa, it’s fantastic,” says Al. “It makes all the work worthwhile.” Forty years later, that shared excitement remains at the heart of a cherished holiday tradition that continues to bring St. Thomas together.

Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 17

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Hometown St. Thomas • November 2026 • Page 19 2020–2023

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