Hometown St. Thomas September 2024 Issue 63
Letter from the Editor
the business was to sell and help my sales team, I was also trying to keep the Weekly News a good local newspaper and maybe even make it a little better. After the paper was shuttered, my wife, Staci, became another mentor. As we ventured into something new for us, she taught me different techniques for story creation, and of course, she tried to teach me some grammar. At the time, we didn’t know she would be training me to replace her upon her passing (an impossible task); she just wanted me to be the best version of myself I could be. Of course, these are just a few examples of the people I have looked up to over the years, people who have not only trained me to be good at what I do but also encouraged me to be better than I believed I could be. So, I ask: are you a mentor? If not, why not? Being a mentor not only builds bonds between you and other people, but it is also a way for your knowledge to carry on through to the next generation, and then the next and so on. Don’t have anyone in your life to mentor? Well, September is Big Brothers and Big Sisters month -- have you considered being a mentor to someone who could really use one? Wisdom is like money; you can’t take it with you when you’re gone, so pass it on today!
Recently, someone told me I was like a mentor to them. This was a bit of a surprise; I have always looked to other people as my mentors and never thought of someone looking at me like that. I have learned from some of the best in the business, and not just about the business.
My first mentor was my mom; she was really the one who got me into advertising and sales in the first place. Sure, I earned my diploma in marketing and was a marketing assistant, but she told me I could not only be a salesperson but also a really good one. She has been selling ads since the 80s and was one of the best at it in London. She gave me the confidence to give it a go and got my foot in the door. From there, I learned from her and several other gifted ad folks; from each of them, I took advice and techniques that worked for me and crafted my own style. Other than my mom, who was also my sales manager and therefore paid to make me a better salesperson, others took their own time to show me what works for them, so they could help mould the next generation. After a few years of success in sales, I was then made the office/ sales manager of the St. Thomas/Elgin Weekly News here in St. Thomas, where I had the benefit of working with a new type of mentor, Terry Carroll. Terry was a ‘newspaperman’, not a salesperson. Print was in his blood, and while my main focus in
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The Debut of Bass Notez Cocktail Lounge by Peri Hayes Stephanie Klassen is the proud owner of Bass Notez Cocktail Lounge, which officially opened for business this July 11th at 703 Talbot Street. As a first-time business owner, Stephanie is excited to be facilitating a new space in the downtown core. She describes the atmosphere: “An elevated and sophisticated cocktail lounge with craft cocktails, live jazz and lounge-style music.” Delectable hors d’oeuvres and shareable snacks are available, accompanied by incredible live performances. Stephanie shares that there is an entertainment fee included on each tab, which is directed to their valued performers. These musicians
are a combination of local and surrounding area residents, as well as those recognized for travelling distances from Toronto in the east and Chatham in the west. Asked what inspired and excites Stephanie to debut her business, the entrepreneur passionately replies, “I am from St. Thomas. I have lived here my whole life, and I wanted to create a space for people to go to. It’s all of my favourites in one spot -- funky things that aren’t seen elsewhere.” The Bass Notez Campfire Smoke Cocktail, for example, is a unique beverage which features a smoke bubble that sits atop of the cocktail and amazes guests with an ultimate pop effect. Also offered are enchanting dry ice cocktails, a delightful line of non-alcoholic liqueurs and an array of exquisite refreshments to enjoy in this welcoming environment. Presently, Stephanie is working toward facilitating events, private parties and rehearsal dinners. Bass Notez Cocktail Lounge currently operates three days a week and will be available to book for the aforementioned celebrations on the remaining days. Visit this establishment on Thursday from 8:00 pm until 12:00 am, as well as on Friday and Saturday from 8:00 pm until 2:00 am. The dedicated entrepreneur reveals that she is interested in expanding with lunch hours. Visit the “Bass Notez Cocktail Lounge” Facebook page to direct
inquiries, or connect with Stephanie through email at bassnotez703@gmail.com.
Thursday September 19 7:30pm “Festival Season” by Shannon Patte Friday September 20 7:30pm “Rye an’ Gospel” by Lee MacDougall Saturday September 21 7:30pm “Gold Fish” by Steve Ross PLAYWRIGHTS’ FESTIVAL SIMON JOYNES
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Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page 3
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A Celebration of Local Entrepreneurship The Bridges to Better Business event, hosted by the Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC), is gearing up for its 15th annual celebration, and this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. The event is on September 26th at the Elgin County Railway Museum (225 Wellington St., St Thomas) starting at 5 pm. This evening is more than just a gathering; it’s a cornerstone of community spirit, bringing together small business owners, industry leaders, and community members in a vibrant celebration of entrepreneurship. Sarah Noble, Manager of Marketing and Communications for St. Thomas Economic Development, is particularly excited about this milestone. “Bridges to Better Business is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year! Can you believe it? This event has become a community highlight, yet in my mind, it remains somewhat an undiscovered gem,” she says. The event, open to everyone — not just those in the business community — aims to celebrate the achievements of local entrepreneurs while fostering connections that contribute to the strength and vibrancy of Elgin County and St. Thomas. The night’s festivities will feature the TASTE Elgin and St. Thomas Food Showcase, a crowd favourite that replaces the traditional sit-down dinner with a dynamic, interactive experience. Sarah explains: “The TASTE Food Showcase is honestly so much fun — it’s a unique experience where you can sample your way across the entire county in one magical place. Imagine a local version of Epcot, right here at home!” This format not only offers a culinary journey through the region’s finest flavours but also encourages mingling and conversations, making it a social highlight.
A key element of the evening is the presentation of awards to 14 outstanding local businesses, recognizing their contributions to the community. “Taking the opportunity to acknowledge the incredible accomplishments of our small business community is vital,” Sarah shares. These awards celebrate everything from young entrepreneurs just starting out to long-established businesses that have become pillars of the community. The recognition is more than just a pat on the back; it’s an inspiration for others to pursue their own entrepreneurial dreams. This year’s event also features a special performance by Canadian music icon, Steven Page, adding a layer of entertainment that’s sure to make the evening unforgettable. “We are thrilled to have Steven Page join us for this special occasion,” Sarah notes. His performance is expected to create an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie that resonates with the spirit of the event.
“This is such a special event, and it’s unique every year,” says Sarah. Whether you’re a small business owner, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply a community member looking for a night of good food, great music, and inspiring stories, Bridges to Better Business offers something for everyone.
Tickets are available now at sbecinnocation.ca/bridges.
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Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page 5
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Elgin Ballroom Dance Club by Peri Hayes “Initially,” Tina Rohowsky introduces, “The Elgin Ballroom Dance Club was started in 2000 by Ed Donkers, a local goat farmer, after the Stork Club 2000 Millennial dance. Soon after, Hilary Vaughan, a lawyer in St. Thomas, joined him as his dance partner and co-instructor. Ed decided to retire, however, class members Eugene and Krista Burge stepped in and started teaching a beginner class in April 2017. In August of 2018, they stepped down and the club went dormant.” “During the summer of 2023,” Tina continues, “Former members expressed an interest to restart the Elgin Ballroom Dance Club. On October 19th, 2023, we started our new fall session at the Knights of Columbus Club — located at 265 Wellington Street — with Ed and Hilary back as our instructors.” Tina thoroughly enjoys volunteering her time toward arranging the rental space and overseeing registration, as well as managing the club’s advertising and funds. She delightedly shares that since Elgin Ballroom Dance Club’s inception in 2000, this club has donated more than $75,000.00 to a variety of local charities. Elgin Ballroom Dance Club’s well-regarded classes entail dance instruction in a group setting -- along with opportunities to collaborate with other students, and the incorporation of one- on-one coaching. Three different dances are taught during each session, as their cherished instructors rotate through the Cha-Cha, Foxtrot, Hustle, Mambo, Merengue, Rumba, Swing and Waltz. What excites Tina about this service? “Knowing that hundreds of couples have enjoyed the fun and health benefits of dancing, along with the hilarity of Ed’s unconventional teaching style,” she earnestly replies. “It is a fun place to meet new people and learn
the basics of ballroom dance. As Ed always says, ‘It’s not how many moves you know, it’s how you do the moves’. Ed has a great gift for getting beginners, especially men, started in dance.” 25 couples are welcomed per class, with ages ranging from 20 to 70 years and above. The club will soon operate a ten- week-long fall session, commencing on Thursday, September 26th. The Advanced class is scheduled from 7:00 pm to 8:15 pm, while the Beginner class takes place from 8:30 pm until 9:30 pm. Full payment of the $150.00 per couple session fee is required in order to reserve space. As Tina concludes, “Both Ed and Hilary generously volunteer their time and expertise. The club charges a nominal registration fee for classes, which has allowed the club to pay for the rental space and leaves a surplus of funds available to be donated back to community charities.” Call 519-495-8897 for more information, or email Tina directly at elginballroom@gmail.com. Left to right: Jim Herbert and Rita Herbert (from their Advanced Class), Pat Conner (Christmas Care volunteer), Andreena Collins (Christmas Care volunteer), Tammy Johnston and Barry Followfield (from their Beginner Class)
celebrating the bridges between businesses and community
featuring Steven Page
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Oktoberfest Returns to Downtown St. Thomas On September 21st, 2024, St. Thomas will come alive with the sounds, tastes, and traditions of Oktoberfest. From 2 pm to 9 pm, our downtown will transform into a vibrant celebration, echoing the famous German festival but with a distinct local flavour. The festivities will take place in the lot beside Moore Street, across from Legends, with Talbot Street closed off from St. Catherines to John Street. This year’s Oktoberfest promises to be Canada’s “Second Best” Oktoberfest. According to Grayden Laing, Chair of the St. Thomas Downtown Development Board (DDB), attendees should break out their lederhosen and get ready to celebrate! “From the delectable German treats, dancers, the keg tapping, free train rides, incredible bands, speeches by our elected officials -- and did I mention the local beer from Caps Off and Railway City?” Grayden adds, “One thing that our community, from Bayham to St. Thomas to West Elgin, knows how to do best – throw an epic party.” One might wonder why Oktoberfest is being held in September. Grayden explains that it’s all about authenticity and practicality. “Our Oktoberfest now starts on the same day that Germany kicks off its celebrations. Last year, we had it in October, and while everyone who came out had a blast, the weather was miserable.” To ensure everyone can enjoy the festivities regardless of the weather, this year’s event will feature an even bigger tent. “If it rains again, we should be able to fit everyone under it – even if it means we have to be a little cozier with our neighbours. I hear beer helps with that,” Grayden adds with a laugh. Oktoberfest in St. Thomas isn’t just about beer, though. Highlights of the event include bouncy castles, pretzels,
fancy porta-potties, custom beer steins, unique competitions, German dancing, and a Goosechase App competition with massive prizes. There will also be free train rides, Stein painting from Crock-a-Doodle, kids’ activities, and more.
The DDB’s decision to add Oktoberfest to its schedule of downtown events is rooted in both a love for the festival and a commitment to environmentalism. “Having everyone from our area driving to Kitchener to celebrate Oktoberfest isn’t fuel efficient. So, what do we do? We hold our own Oktoberfest that’s just good enough that people will stick around here for it.”
As the DDB continues to build on the success of last year’s event, Grayden looks forward to another fantastic day, with hopes that this year the sun will shine. “I’m looking forward to it not raining and to our collaboration with the EDC team to continue to make this event bigger and better each year.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page 7
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Seniors Picnic in the Park is Back On The Seniors Picnic in the Park, an annual tradition cherished by the residents of St. Thomas and throughout Elgin County, is now set to mark its 25th anniversary on Wednesday, September 18th, from 9 am to 2 pm at Pinafore Park (95 Elm St, St Thomas). This milestone event, initially scheduled for July 10th but postponed due to extreme weather, promises to be a day filled with camaraderie, entertainment, and the vibrant spirit of our senior community. I know how disappointed the community was when the event was postponed, but the committee, looking at the weather projections for the 10th, was left with little choice. I also know how hard the committee has worked in getting everything changed to this new date and we hope to see everyone come out! While the date has changed from July to September little has changed for the event itself. “The free get-together, which began in 1999, has withstood the test of time, thanks to the tireless work of the 10-person organizing committee and modest grants from the City of St. Thomas and Elgin County,” says Sherri Wilson, VON Supervisor, Community Support Services and Treasurer of the Picnic Committee. Indeed, over the years, the picnic has become a cornerstone of summer for many, attracting approximately 1,500 seniors from across Elgin County to Pinafore Park. Sherri added, “St. Thomas’ senior citizens know how to plan a premier park party!” Tifanie Smith, Volunteer Coordinator for the VON and a fellow committee member, echoed Sherri’s sentiments. “It is such a great show of support for our beautiful community,” she remarked. “Not only have several community-driven organizations come together to plan the picnic, but we also have volunteers, vendors, and support from the City of St.
Thomas. This collaborative project has reached thousands of seniors a year for 25 years. That is something to be proud of. It is something I am proud to be a part of.” Beyond the festivities, the Seniors Picnic in the Park serves as a hub of resources and information for attendees. “The event provides seniors of our community access to arts, culture, environment, heritage, recreation, lifelong learning, and health activities,” Sherri explained. “From food to live performances, draw prizes, and giveaways, this year’s picnic is one for the ages – and aged.” The 25th Annual Seniors Picnic in the Park is not just a celebration of longevity; it’s a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of our seniors. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and join us for a day of laughter, memories, and the warmth of community at Pinafore Park on September 18th.
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Preserving the Gossip of the Past: Elgin County Archives’ Newspaper Digitization Project by Natysha Rieger: Digitization Assistant, Elgin County Archives Before Facebook, Twitter (X), and other social media and digital news outlets, we had our noses buried in newspapers. These historical gems held the latest gossip, local, national, international news, and much more. Now, these seemingly mundane daily papers hold a wealth of information for historians and researchers alike to better understand the events, beliefs and morals of the past. Starting in 2019, The Elgin County Archives’ Newspaper Digitization Project has made considerable progress digitizing the local daily and weekly newspapers from across the county. In partnership with the Elgin County branch of the Ontario Genealogical Society (OGS), significant funding from the Estate of Donna Vera Evans Bushell, and the Blinder Family Foundation, Digitization Assistants have been able to scan more than 600 years, spanning 36 newspaper titles from; the Aylmer Express , to the Rodney Mercury as well as smaller community newspapers like Our Community Press. The current Digitization Assistant is focused on digitizing the original issues of The St. Thomas Times-Journal. This process consists of four simple steps: preparation, scanning, storing, and record creation. Since 2021, over 236,039 pages of the Times- Journal have been scanned by hand and added to our database. Preparing these original newspapers for scanning is a very tedious and time-consuming job. Each book needs to be carefully removed from its bindings by cutting away the old
glue and threads that attached the pages to the spine, making sure to avoid rips and tears. Some of the newspapers that are kept in large flat archival boxes need to be checked for any misplaced dates and if necessary, reorganized. Once done, every page is scanned until the book is completely done. Depending on the condition of the newspaper, some pages may be in pieces and need to be reassembled as neatly as possible. At the end of the scanning process, a large multi- page PDF is created that is saved into our system and paired with a database record. After the scanning process is finished, the newspaper books are wrapped up in archival-quality paper to ensure that the loose pages will stay together. Labels are created and attached to the wrapping where they are visible and easy to read. After the books are stored away, database records are made for the newly created PDF. These records can be found through the Newspaper Finding Aid on our website. If you have any questions about the digitization project or need assistance navigating the Newspaper Finding Aid, please contact Elgin County Assistant Archivist, Gina Dewaele at: gdewaele@elgin.ca or call 519-631-1460 ext. 154.
Image of Scanner Rig Set Up. Caption: This is the Digitization Assistant’s workstation. They are hard at work scanning every page by hand!
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Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page 9
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The Inaugural Elgin County Studio Tour by Peri Hayes Professional oil painter for nearly 30 years, Elizabeth Kusinski, is the proud Co-chair, alongside Laura Woermke, of the highly anticipated Elgin County Studio Tour. Elizabeth highlights their dedicated volunteer-based committee, including Treasurer, Mary Intven Wallace, and Neil Hubert, who prepared Ad- ministration during his previous involvement. Elizabeth is thrilled to announce that this is a free, self-guided tour. Originally from Toronto, Elizabeth has resided in Port Stanley for 14 years. Having participated in studio tours across the province, she feels strongly about facilitating such an experience in Elgin County: “We felt it was important to highlight the cultural importance and economic impact of the arts by providing this unique opportunity for the public to step inside the artists’ studios, witness the creative process and purchase one-of-a-kind works.” There will be a variety of artists showcased, with pieces for sale and demonstrations available at certain locations. Elizabeth has raised her daughter surrounded by art, about which she voices her passion: “I paint, and it goes through me. Each piece is meant for somebody out there.” Inspired by photographs, both old and new, Elizabeth focuses on bringing memories back to life through her nostalgic and vintage style. The hospitable Elizabeth is looking forward to providing a memorable experience through the 21 studios and 23 featured artists participating in the Elgin County Studio Tour’s debut, which is taking place this September 28th and 29th from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm. Moreover, nine of these locations are based in St. Thomas, while one is in Union, two are in Sparta and nine are situated in Port Stanley.
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This event has been two diligent years in the works, as Elizabeth and her colleagues strive for this community celebration to be a safe space for nourishing one’s creativity and forming meaningful connections through art. “This is where you can be you,” Elizabeth encourages. “You can also enjoy the village, and make a whole weekend out of it! We want this event to expand the geographic area, and continue to grow.” Additionally, this is a juried show with a membership fee to participate once accepted. This fee is directed toward the advertising for this tour, as well as printing and signage. 25 artists will be accepted for the Elgin County Studio Tour next year, with the application process outlined through their website this October. Co-chair, Laura Woermke, delightedly offers, “We are incredibly excited to invite art lovers and enthusiasts to the upcoming Elgin County Studio Tour. This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet our talented local artists, explore their creative spaces and witness the magic of their artistic process firsthand -- a great weekend of art inspiration, connection, discovery and celebration of the vibrant art community of Elgin County and St. Thomas.” The 2024 Elgin County Studio Tour is generously sponsored by The Art and Soul Café, Canadale Nurseries, Domus De- velopments, Doug Tarry Homes, Inn on the Harbour, the Port Stanley BIA, Port Stanley Properties and The Windjammer Inn. Elizabeth expresses immense appreciation for their support. For further information about this event on the horizon — including an informative map detailing the tour — visit the elgincountystudiotour.ca website. Elizabeth encourages in- quiries to be emailed to elgincountystudiotour@gmail.com, enthusiastically concluding, “It was amazing that we could all work together to make this happen. We are really excited!”
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Soar High and See the Sights with the St. Thomas Flight Centre Did you know the St. Thomas Flight Centre is the cornerstone of the local aviation community? Not only is it the local hub for those looking to get their pilot’s licenses, but it also offers some of the most scenic sightseeing tours. With the Flight Centre manager, David Hertner at the controls, this institution is charting a course for growth, aiming to attract a diverse clientele ranging from retirees seeking new hobbies to younger individuals aspiring for aviation careers and also those looking to see their world from a new perspective.
twin-engine aircraft. The standard the airlines are looking for is a commercial pilot certificate along with multi-engine and instrument flight rules certifications, and we’re able to do that with the aircraft we have.” David’s passion for aviation is deeply rooted in his own experiences. “When I took my first flights, it was the principal of my public school who took me flying. Once you’ve experienced that perspective, you really want to share that with people.” This passion translates into the Centre’s community-driven approach, fostering a supportive environment for aspiring pilots. “The biggest part of that is the friendships I’ve made over time. The pilots are a solid group of helpful people and there’s not a lot of politics in it. We all love to fly, and that’s our mantra here at the airport.” The scenic sightseeing tours offered by the flight centre are designed to provide a unique aerial experience. “We offer our sightseeing tours in our Cessna 172s,” David explains. “They hold three people plus one of our instructors. All of our instructors fly sightseeing tours as commercial pilots.” These
“The other half of the Flight Centre,” David points out, “Is that we are a vocational school, a career college. I don’t think people know that.” The Centre’s extensive training capabilities are impressive, with a fleet of seven airplanes operating every day except Christmas and the ability to train students from their first flight to obtaining a commercial pilot’s license. “We have the capability of training you in single-engine airplanes and in
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I am the Program Coordinator for the Child & Youth Care program and I’m excited to share some of the great things happening in St. Thomas. You will notice a relaxed atmosphere & intimate, smaller class sizes, which allows for greater faculty- student interaction and a very positive environment for learning. Your Child & Youth Care team of dedicated professors have years of experience in the field. Set up a personal tour - Call 519-633-2030. I am the Program Coordinator for the Child & Youth Care program and I’m excited to share some of the great things happening in St. Thomas. You will notice a relaxed atmosphere & intimate, smaller class sizes, which allows for greater faculty- student interaction and a very positive environment for learning. Your Child & Youth Care team of dedicated professors have years of experience in the field.
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Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024
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there, they will bring you up, let you use the controls and get a feel for the plane and then bring you in for a landing.” Looking ahead, the St. Thomas Flight Centre is expanding its horizons. “We’re looking to get more into the simulator market. There are people who like flight simulators, and they can come rent our flight simulator. So that’s another revenue stream that we’re looking at,” David reveals, “Not only from the pilot training standpoint but also the enthusiast.” This forward- thinking approach underscores the Centre’s commitment to growth and adaptation in the ever-evolving field of aviation. With its rich history, comprehensive training programs, and exciting sightseeing opportunities, the St. Thomas Flight Centre is open to both novice flyers and seasoned aviators. Whether you’re looking to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot or simply want to see the world from a new perspective, the Flight Centre offers a gateway to the skies. The St. Thomas Flight Centre is located at the St. Thomas Airport at 44989 Talbot Line, St Thomas. You can also find it online at www.learntofly.on.ca.
Fun for the whole family! Open for U-Pick Apples. Baked goods and family fun. For those intrigued by flying but unsure about committing to a full course, the Flight Centre offers introductory flights. “Come take an introductory flight,” David urges. “You’ll get to control the airplane, get a feel for what it’s like, and with the instructor tours are customizable, allowing passengers to choose their routes and destinations. “You can go take a look at the top of your house, fly along the coast, see the beach, or whatever you want within the sightseeing flight.” The cost of these tours is $140 for half an hour, with adjustments made based on the number of passengers and their combined weight. “When you call in to book a sightseeing flight, we’re going to ask how many people are in the airplane, because we have to trade weight for fuel,” David notes. The tours provide a comprehensive experience, including a walk-around of the aircraft with the pilot, making it an educational outing as well. “Some people will book a sightseeing flight just because they want to introduce themselves to the aircraft, and not necessarily so much to go see something.”
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Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page 13
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Celebrates Glass Canada Railway City Road Races by Peri Hayes Carolyn Johnson, Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of St. Thomas-Elgin’s Executive Director, is proud to be the Race Organizer for the Railway City Road Races. Glass Canada Railway City Road Races (RCRR) debuted as Lace Up for STEGH several years ago. In 2014, a group of volunteers from a local run club approached the original organizers with the vision to rebrand the race as a premier running race for St. Thomas and Elgin County. Carolyn details, “The Rob Broadbent Half Marathon was also added that year. The idea behind the rebranding was to create a family-friendly, professional running event that runners would want to come to year after year. Attention to details — like providing a quality technical shirt, a fun medal, great support for runners on the course with adequate water stations and a scenic flat course that is easy to navigate — are still top priorities.” The Railway City Road Races is celebrating ten years as the rebranded event, which will commence and complete on the grounds of the Elgin Railway Museum. As Carolyn announces, “The 5km, 10km and Half Marathon are run on the paths, roads and trails across the south end of the City of St. Thomas. The Choo Choo Challenge, our 1km fun run for kids, takes place safely beside the Elgin Railway Museum on the path system. This event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Thomas. All proceeds from the event go to providing life-changing mentoring relationships to children and youth who face adversities in our community. Every one dollar
THE TURKEY SHOPPE “I believe the most exciting thing about this event is the people,” Carolyn enthuses. “It only happens because a team of over 100 volunteers show up early on the fourth Sunday in September every year with a smile on their face, and a desire to ensure that every runner has a good race day. Our runners work hard to prepare for race day, and we feel blessed that they are choosing the RCRR to test their skills and hard work.” Their 5km, 10km and Half Marathon are offered to runners of all ages, while participants under the age of 18 require the written permission of a parent or guardian. The 1km Choo raised for BBBS has a $23.00 return on investment to society, because our kids pursue healthier lifestyles, are more likely to engage in community and are more likely to be employed and hold better jobs.”
Would your home renovation business benefit from letting thousands of your neighbours know about it? Do you have a service that more people need to know about? Then call to book your space in our Fall Home Renovation Feature coming out in the October issue of Hometown St. Thomas Geoff Rae 519-495-7177 geoff@villagerpublications.com
519-633-0527 www.turkeyshoppe. com It is a fan favourite! 10882 Sunset Rd. Just North of Talbotville Horton Farmers Market Open Saturdays 8-12 Have you tried our Tender Turkey Schnitzel?
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Page 14 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@VillagerPublications.com
We are profoundly grateful to be part of such a caring and compassionate community.”
Choo Challenge is available for children ages two to twelve years. To register, visit the Railway City Road Races website at railwaycityroadraces.com. Moreover, those with inquiries are encouraged to call Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Thomas- Elgin at 519-633-3830, connect directly with Carolyn at carolyn. johnsonc@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca, or correspond with Matt Fenerty at matt.fenerty@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca. For more information, visit “Railway City Road Races” on Facebook and Instagram. Carolyn passionately concludes, “We are deeply moved by the incredible support we’ve received from local businesses, making our races possible. Long-standing sponsors like Steelway Building Systems, Glass Canada, Masco, and Debbie Hamilton and the Cooperators have been our pillars. Additionally, numerous smaller businesses generously donate their time and resources, ensuring that the majority of the funds raised go toward supporting our children.
Hometown St. Thomas September 2024 cover The Elgin Middlesex District Soccer League had their tournament on July 13th at One Password Park with teams from all over the area. Photo by Geoff Rae.
Hometown St. Thomas • November 2023 • Page 15 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page
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Meet Me at the Market It’s harvest time, and the Horton Market is filled with local produce from around the county. There is nothing better for you and your family than buying produce grown within an hour’s drive of your home. Of course, there is more to the Horton Market than produce; this month I highlight three vendors who offer amazing locally-made products. Magic Medicinals – Natural Health Products Steve Brodhaecker emerged from life-saving surgery and was transformed by his recovery journey. Inspired by his partner Chantal’s passion for tea, Steve began crafting herbal blends from their own garden, leading to the birth of Magic Medicinals. “Our passion drives us to bring you a collection of herbal teas and supplements crafted not just for their flavours, but also
for their incredible healing benefits,” says Steve. The business now offers organic tinctures, a skincare line featuring grass- fed tallow infused with reishi and shiitake mushrooms, and a popular microdose tea and capsule line. Motivated by the health benefits of mushrooms, Steve left his government job to pursue his true calling. “The number of positive testimonies and stories I receive from returning customers is the most rewarding feeling I’ve ever had,” he notes. Steve shares that his products can benefit those who suffer from mental illness, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, depression and mood support for women going through menopause. Union General Coffee Company – Coffee & Hot Drinks The Union General Coffee Co., run by Martha and Jon Fuller, is a small-batch coffee roasting company based in Union, Ontario.
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Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@VillagerPublications.com
What started as a quest to find great decaf options has grown into a business offering an array of coffees, including Swiss Water Process decaf, half-caf, and fully caffeinated options. “At the market, we showcase our Nitro cold brew—served on tap — super smooth and delicious!” shares Martha. They also offer hot coffee in medium, dark, and decaf roasts, along with bags of their freshly roasted beans. What sets Union General Coffee Co. apart is its commitment to ethically sourced, sustainably farmed beans roasted in small batches using a fluid bed roaster. “This makes our coffee super fresh, very low acidity (feels good on the tummy), and ensures the right profits go back to the farmers,” says Martha. Beyond coffee, they offer tea, hot chocolate, and refreshing Italian sodas in peach, strawberry, raspberry and Lime. Martha adds that they will soon have seasonal drinks like peppermint mochas and pumpkin spice! Great Lakes Farms – Local Hard Cider Launched in the fall of 2021, Great Lakes Farms cider is a product of passion and tradition, crafted entirely on-site in Port Stanley. Holly Morgan, the farm’s store manager, tells us about their eight varieties of hard cider and one non-alcoholic sparkling cider. “Our ciders range from Dry to our sweetest, Baked Apple, which tastes just like pie in a glass,” says Holly. Other popular flavours include peach, strawberry rhubarb, and the unique Heritage Apple Cider, which is made from a blend of older apple varieties like russet, giving it a deep, wine- like flavour. What sets Great Lakes Farms Cider apart is their hands-on approach. “We do everything here at the farm, from planting the trees to bottling the cider,” Holly explains. With
a commitment to hyper-local production, their ciders offer a refreshing alternative to national brands. Whether you’re a cider enthusiast or just curious, sampling GLF Ciders is a unique and rewarding experience.
Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024 • Page 17
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Lidup4Branden, Hotrods and Hops by Peri Hayes Branden Pettit was a caring and spirited 15-year-old. Bill Ralf offers the following background, warm-heartedly voicing, “Lidup4Branden was founded in 2020 after Branden passed away due to a head injury following a skateboard accident. It is our mission to protect children and families from the same incidents.” Hotrods and Hops is a benefit fundraiser created in support of Lidup4Branden. The evening of September 7th will entail a delicious dinner, in addition to an entertaining DJ, live music and a silent auction. “Just a great night to have fun,” Bill emphasizes. “This September would have been Branden’s 19th birthday, so we chose to honour him with this event.” “Our role in this fundraiser,” Bill stresses, “Is to allow people to hear our story and enjoy a great night out. I am not alone in organizing this event; we have countless volunteers involved.” The Elgin County Railway Museum will be facilitating the space for Hodrods and Hops. Tickets are available at the lidup.ca website, as well as directly through Bill and fellow representatives. Asked what he is personally looking forward to regarding the upcoming Hodrods and Hops, Bill earnestly replies, “I am looking forward to connecting with people and enjoying their company in support of this event and our cause.” Those with inquiries are encouraged to contact Bill by phone at 226-504-3389, or send an email to lidup4branden@gmail.com.
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Page 18 Hometown St. Thomas • September 2024
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