St. Thomas and District Horticultural Society by Peri Hayes St. Thomas and District Horticultural Society, otherwise known as ‘The Hort’, was founded in 1870 and is regarded as the longest serving club in Elgin County. As Richard Cartwright reports, the red rose — his personal favourite — and the tulip, are the designated flowers of St. Thomas. The Hort organizes various events designed to celebrate community, connection and all-things horticulture. In 2022, the esteemed Annual Plant Sale was expanded and evolved into the Annual Plant Sale Garden Emporium. For this, horticulturists welcome the public to explore their displays of exquisite plants and garden materials. Richard assumes the role of Secretary for the group’s approximately 70 active members, with Diane Vaughan serving as President. Asked what inspired Richard’s involvement since ‘91, he shares, “I used to watch a program called The Victory Garden, which fed my interest in gardening and photography. I remain a proud member of The Hort, as I enjoy learning from the various speakers that we have featured over the years. I also look forward to the different activities, garden tours and flower shows.” The Hort supports causes in the local community, including Barrie Family Hospice of Elgin, the STEGH Foundation — specifically toward the new MRI machine — and the Thames Talbot Land Trust for the purpose of expanding Hawk Cliff in Port Stanley. The Hort’s seasons take place both from January through May and September to November, while members dedicate time to enjoy their respective gardens in between. As Richard announces, “We belong to the Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA), which is divided into districts and each holds an annual
general meeting. As District 10, we hosted ours at the CASO Station on April 18th for the first time since 2004.” Over 150
NOTICE to Members / Plot Holders of The Saint Thomas Cemetery Company
Happy Mother's Day
1-2-3 COMBO 1 Cheesy Bread 2 Medium Pizzas 3 Toppings on each Enjoy a family pizza night for M0ther’s Day!
The Annual General Meeting (A.G.M.) of the Saint Thomas Cemetery Company will be held at 5:00pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at the St. Thomas Legion, 24 John Street. All Members / Plot Holders of the Saint Thomas Cemetery Company are entitled to attend and to vote on matters put before the AGM. Please visit www.stthomascemetery.com for details.
$ 27 99
Citizenship and Immigration Canada Pension Plan Old Age Security Canada Revenue Agency Veterans Affairs Here to serve!
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3oo Elm St. 226-570-0029
965 Talbot St. 519-633-3123
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Sunday - Thursday 10:30am-12:00am Friday - Saturday 10:30am-1:00am
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519-637-4130 | andrew.lawton@parl.gc.ca
Page 14 Hometown St. Thomas • May 2026
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