REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural
WINTER 2024 Issue 19
Letter from the Editor I quite enjoy winter, but I don’t like ice. Ice and I don’t see eye to eye. Once, when I was in elementary school I slipped on some ice, broke my leg and dislocated my ankle – that hurt. Fast forward 33 years and eight days, and I was walking to take the perfect shot for the front cover of this magazine and whammo, the ice reintroduced itself to me. While this time, nothing
to cover a story, I learned about a man named John Kenneth Galbraith who was an economist and diplomat, who served with FDR, JFK and Johnson and was the U.S. ambassador to India for a short time – oh, and he was from Iona Station with ties to Dutton. The man worked with two of my three favourite U.S. Presidents and he was from 15 minutes away. I believe we have a strong issue out of the gate for 2024. In addition to our usual group of talented columnists, we invited the County Warden and Mayor of Bayhem, Ed Ketchabaw to offer his thoughts on the year that was and what we have to look forward as a county. We once again dive into a new play by Len Cuthbert being premiered in Southwold, this time featuring our local bombing and gunnery school in Fingal. We share a story on how you can connect with your local health, a local author and his book on the Talbotville Ford Plant, and more! While I complain about the effects of getting old, I am reminded of words Staci often told me: Never complain about getting old, it is a privilege denied to many. Enjoy, and we will see you in May for our Fifth Anniversary issue! Geoff
was broken, I am 33 years older and so now everything hurts. Part of it is my fault; on my slip and slide down, I rolled so I didn’t land directly onto my camera, which tweaked my back, and my knee slammed down into the sheet of ice first, so that hurts the most. So, to recap, I love winter; ice has a personal vendetta against me for some reason, and getting old stinks. I am very excited for the year ahead. Our May issue of REAL Living will mark the magazine’s fifth anniversary. To me, this is a big deal, as when we initially launched the magazine, it was a bit of a challenge, as I had never sold to many rural businesses. I grew up in London, lived in Toronto, and have now lived in St. Thomas for 18 years, so I have always (except for three years in Toronto) been rural-adjacent. REAL Living offered Staci and I an opportunity to go out, learn more about our community and expand our horizons. Expand they have; what a wonderful community Elgin is, filled with pockets of amazing smaller communities, each with their own identities, histories and treasures. For example, while out on a recent assignment Time to accessorize your truck? • Tonneau Covers • Running Boards • Truck Racks • Hood Protectors • Moulded Splash Guards and more
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Page 2 Real Living • Winter 2024
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Our Classic Country Roots At 2 pm on February 18th, during the much-anticipated concert, Our Classic Country Roots, Belmont United Church, located at 245 College St., Belmont, will come alive with the enchanting melodies of classic country music. The event will feature the dynamic duo of Roy LeBlanc, an award-winning Elvis impersonator who will be performing as an extensive range of classic country singers, and Mary Skelton, who will do the same. The concert promises an afternoon of toe-tapping tunes and soulful melodies that celebrate the rich heritage of country music. Elsie Moore, Chairperson of the Fundraising Committee for Belmont United Church, shed light on the church’s ongoing efforts to support its activities. “As with many churches, we do a lot of fundraising. Donations alone do not cover expenses. Our committee prepares and sells turkey pot pies, fresh- picked strawberries, Wondercloths, and boxed frozen chicken products from JW Sweid Foods, and we sponsor occasional concerts. Our committee usually gives the money earned to general funds.” Recently, funds were directed toward installing a new lift after the old one ceased working. Elise, expressing her excitement about the upcoming concert continues. “A long-time church member who enjoys music, I am part of a dedicated choir directed by Susan Marshall. Roy LeBlanc contacted us ten years ago to see if we were interested in an Elvis Gospel Concert. We were. We have had him as Elvis twice. After seeing his Country Show with Mary Skelton at another venue, I was impressed with his talent, singing other country artists. Roy is a charismatic entertainer.” The Classic Country Roots concert, hosted in the historic Belmont United Church, promises an intimate and immersive experience. Established in 1853, the current building was erected in 1889 and continues to stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of the congregation. The property committee, comprising capable workers with diverse skills, ensures the maintenance of both the interior and exterior of the building. Volunteers are pivotal in keeping the church thriving, contributing their expertise in décor, landscaping, electrical work, and general repairs. The Worship and Pastoral Care Committee, in collaboration with Rev. Karlene Kimber, focuses on the spiritual needs of the vibrant and welcoming church community. This collaborative effort contributes to the church’s warm and inclusive atmosphere.
Seating for the Our Classic Country Roots concert is limited, with the church’s capacity capped at 180 people. Roy LeBlanc handles online sales; tickets are also available for direct purchase by calling Elsie at 519-644-1065 or can be purchased at Dale Equipment (14024 Belmont Rd., Belmont). Given the overwhelming demand, it is advised to secure tickets early; as Elsie points out, “It will be sold out before the concert date of February 18.” Don’t miss this extraordinary musical journey through classic country roots at Belmont United Church, where history, community, and soul-stirring melodies come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Adrian Marchuk and Jeff Madden
Saturday March 30 2:00pm & 7:30pm
A brand-new musical concert telling the behind-the-scenes story of playing Frankie Valli in the smash-hit Jersey Boys.
How We Got To Jersey takes you on a whirlwind tour from Toronto to New York and around the world, while singing all the big hits from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons.
PortStanleyFestivalTheatre
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 3
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Elgin County – 2023 Reflections to 2024 Intentions by Ed Ketchabaw, 2024 Warden 2023 will for me be remembered as a year of many challenges and also as a year of many successful outcomes we can collectively continue to build upon. I am grateful to serve alongside a diligent council and a dedicated professional staff, who collaboratively persevered to meet the challenges and to find innovative solutions to improve the delivery of municipal services while maintaining investments in County infrastructure. At the end of the day, our goal is and has always been to improve the quality of life for residents and showcase Elgin County as a desirable destination. Consider the following brief retrospective of some of Elgin’s more noticeable achievements of 2023: • Our first-ever roundabout at the intersection of Elm and Centennial was completed and opened early last summer. This investment provides a safer alternative to improve traffic flow for vehicles and pedestrians in the area. • The Community Paramedicine Program, funded entirely by the province, was launched last March to provide high-quality care for residents living in senior housing and retirement homes while also offering accessible home-based care for seniors. By securing provincial funding, an additional bladder scanner was purchased for Elgin Manner to provide top-notch care for our residents while relieving pressure on local hospitals.
• A ten-kilometre stretch of Sunset Drive was resurfaced with wider cycling lanes and enhanced accessibility improvements at intersections. • Phase One of the redevelopment of Terrace Lodge was completed this past spring and is now being enjoyed by residents while renovations continue on the rest of the structure. • Elgin County Tourism received funding through the Tourism Relief Fund to revamp the Savour Elgin campaign promoting culinary and agri-tourism. • By implementing new technology, the modernization of the Financial Services Department was completed to streamline payroll processes for all Elgin County employees, and scheduling capability was improved across Elgin’s three Long Term Care Homes. • The migration of Elgin County Archives to a digital data- base is ongoing and will preserve Elgin’s treasures for future generations. • The Warden’s Charity Golf Tournament raised $19,000 for local charities promoting inclusivity and accessibility. • Renovations to Elgin’s Administration Office to improve lighting and accessibility continue, with the new north elevator opened in November to afford greater accessibility to our facility. • A Rural Economic Development Grant was received to update Elgin County’s website to improve integration for all departments and accessibility for users.
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Page 4 Real Living • Winter 2024
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While it is clear there were many achievements from the past year to celebrate, the County also faced some unexpected events, including: the expropriation of employment lands by the City of St. Thomas; the spring announcement of major investment in the region through the construction of the Volkswagen Battery Plant and the implied future employment and residential growth opportunities; and the June release of a new Draft Provincial Planning Statement. Elgin County remains excited over the Volkswagen announcement and accompanying investments to the region, and we expect to participate in the new employment and residential growth opportunities. However, the roll-out of these unexpected events/ announcements created additional challenges for Elgin. To ensure that a ‘regional’ approach is taken, County Council paused the review of Elgin’s Official Plan (2013) while we reassessed expected population growth projections as they relate to the Volkswagen investment. In like manner, Elgin’s Transportation Master Plan has been put on hold until we have a comprehensive understanding of future traffic pattern expectations resulting from the Battery Plant investment. Looking ahead to 2024, Elgin County Council and staff will be focusing on a number of initiatives in fairly short order. The County budget process, which is well underway, will need to address interest rate pressures, challenges from infrastructure renewal and the revitalization of our professional bench strength, which includes welcoming a new CAO/Clerk. With updated population projections given to the region in last spring’s Volkswagen investment announcement, we will be completing the 5-year Official Plan Review process. Elgin County’s Traffic Master Plan and Road Rationalization Study are also are also scheduled for completion. Council and staff will also collaborate
SCOTT LEWIS AUTO A name you can trust Winter is just getting started ! Don’t let your car leave you stuck in the cold. Call the name you have trusted for over 24 years! As a team, I am confident that Elgin County Council and staff can rise to the challenges ahead. Through a collaborative approach and sound strategy, Team Elgin will face and overcome the challenges of 2024, and continue to build on the foundations laid down by past efforts to demonstrate that Elgin County continues to be a destination for people to ‘live work and play!’ to review and update Elgin County’s Strategic Plan. Together, the updated Official Plan, the Traffic Master Plan, the Road Rationalization Study and the updated Strategic Plan will serve to inform the Council and staff concerning future budget and planning considerations. Another 2024 goal is to successfully negotiate a settlement for the lands expropriated by the City of St. Thomas. A successfully negotiated settlement will properly compensate the County for lost tax revenue, the anticipated increased burden on emergency and other county services, and the expected increase in traffic, leading to faster deterioration of county roads. Planning for enhancements to regional infrastructure through a regional lens must be given attention if the County is to participate in the investments to our region. We must continue to partner with our neighbours and build capacity in future infrastructure projects, such as water, wastewater, stormwater and roads, to support both current needs and anticipated residential/ commercial/industrial growth. Taking this collaborative approach will not only address the pending needs of all but will ultimately be more cost-effective for all Elgin County residents. Ongoing projects need to be supported until they are completed, including the renovations to Terrace Lodge, expected to be completed in early 2025, and the renovations to Elgin’s Administrative Offices to be finished later this year.
To advertise here, please contact Geoff@villagerpublications.com *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. Disability insurance • Employee benefits • Estate and Financial Planning Disability insurance • Employee benefits • Estate and Financial Planning Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Disability insurance • Employee benefits • Estate and Financial Planning Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Disability insurance • Employee benefits • Estate and Financial Planning Disability insurance • Employee benefits • Estate and Financial Planning Plan for your future farm needs. Map out a route that protects you and your business. Let’s talk about your options. Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com Michael L. Moore* Advisor, Sun Life Tel: (519) 637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. *Advisors and their corporations conduct insurance business through Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc. Mutual fund business is done with your advisor through Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is the insurer and is a member of the Sun Life group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2023. Your Elgin County Sun Life Advisor for 22 plus years and counting. Disability insurance • Employee benefits • Estate and Financial Planning
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 5
Embracing Community and Friendship with the Dutton Seniors Centre Nestled in the heart of Dutton (185-B Currie Rd), the Dutton Seniors Centre is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and camaraderie. Established in 1972, this once vibrant hub for seniors has slowed down a bit but is still a beacon of social engagement and active living, as it has been for over five decades.
for a mere $5 membership fee. Mary emphasizes the welcoming nature of the group, stating, “We are actively looking for new members and even new executives.” The club holds a lot of untapped potential, from membership to new activities, with opportunity for new members to become not only part of the group but also part of the leadership and so help guide the club’s direction. Often, one of the most challenging parts of an organization like this is getting it formed. This group already has over 50 years within the community, so there is an opportunity to join and help re-engage the club within the community. Mary highlighted two popular weekly events that draw participants from the community – quilting on Mondays and Bridge on Tuesdays. These activities provide platforms for seniors to showcase their talents and also to foster a sense of belonging and friendship. The essence of the Dutton Seniors Centre extends beyond mere activities because it is a place where people share stories, forge friendships, and rediscover a sense of purpose. The Centre’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive and engaging environment has propelled it through the decades, adapting to the changing times while staying true to its roots. Actively seeking new members and executives, the Dutton Seniors Centre extends an invitation to all seniors in the community. Embrace the warmth of camaraderie, discover new interests, and contribute to the legacy of a community that has thrived for over 50 years. Join the Dutton Seniors Centre, where every member is a cherished part of a timeless tale of friendship and community spirit.
In a recent interview, Mary Bol, an executive at the Dutton Seniors Centre, shared insights into the club’s rich history and desire to attract new members. “When it first started in 1972, there were some very busy people who worked to get it set up. They leased an empty store from the town and secured grants to furnish and renovate the space. It was very active for many years.” One of the Dutton Seniors Centre’s distinctive features is its affordability and inclusivity. Anyone aged 55 and above can join
Page 6 Real Living • Winter 2024
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How We Got To Jersey. One role. Two guys. A Thousand Performances. And they’re just getting started by Port Stanley Festival Theatre Port Stanley Festival Theatre is offering two performances on Sat- urday, March 30th, of How We Got To Jersey: A Tale Of Two Frankies. This is a brand-new musical concert telling the behind-the- scenes story of playing Frankie Valli in the smash-hit Jersey Boys. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to hear not one but two Frankie Vallis in a show-stopping musical revue created by and starring Jeff Madden and Adrian Marchuk, with musical arrangements by Mark Camilleri. How We Got To Jersey takes you on a whirlwind tour from Toronto to New York and around the world, while singing Frankie Valli classic songs, all the big hits that filled Jersey Boys , such as Sherry, Walk Like a Man, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You, Who Loves You, My Eyes Adore You, Working My Way Back to You , and Oh, What A Night. Audiences can expect to hear the songs they love, and maybe some they forgot they loved. Between their beautiful singing of the songs by Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, Jeff Madden and Adrian Marchuk tell the stories of their careers, hopes, dreams and journeys to Jersey – how two average guys slugged it out to get hired as Frankie in a hit show, and how they persevered through the grind of performing eight shows per week in one of the most challenging roles in musical theatre. The audience will laugh, sing, and be moved by the stories of how two small-town Canadian kids grew up to both play a bona fide rock ’n’ roll hall of fame superstar on stages around the world, to an audience of millions.
Fascinating, funny and packed with the greatest music, How We Got To Jersey: A Tale Of Two Frankies will leave you with a continued appreciation of the music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, as well as a revelatory experience in the dedication and hard work that goes into a career in musical theatre. Reserve your seats at www.psft.ca or call the Box Office at 519-782-4353. The stories told on the Port Stanley Festival Theatre stage are waiting for you to come and be a part of them. The 2024 Port Stanley Festival Theatre Summer Season is just around the corner, starting May 21st. Don’t miss a moment; see all six shows. Single tickets and season subscriptions are available now.
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 7
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Capturing Local History through One-Act Plays On April 19th and 20th, the Keystone Complex in Shedden will once again host a premier of a new and captivating piece of historical fiction, SNAPSHOTS: One Act Plays about WW2 & the RCAF Station Fingal. Snapshots is a collection of formal short plays penned by local writer, Len Cuthbert. With a unique focus on World War Two and the RCAF Station Fingal, this production brings history to life and celebrates the 100th anniversary since April 1, 1924, of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). “They’re tied to either World War Two or Fingal,” Len explains. “We started out with the idea of writing a book about the Bombing and Gunnery school N0. 4 in Fingal, so it is very local.” The production aims to shed light on the experiences of local veterans who trained or worked at the RCAF Bombing and Gunnery School in Fingal during WW2, providing a glimpse into their unexpected adventures. The cast members include Fynn Cuthbert (Actor, Singer, Musician, Composer), Haley Kriz (Actor, Singer), and Brittany Miranda (Actor, Singer), who bring these stories to life. Fynn Cuthbert contributes to the unique aspect of the play by incorporating an original song titled “The Other Side,” which encapsulates the lives of three RCAF veterans. The four plays in SNAPSHOTS offer diverse narratives, each bringing a different perspective on the historical events including the RCAF and Station Fingal. They are: Aces Don’t Lie : This play promises to take the audience on a journey through the challenges and triumphs faced by several local veterans who trained or worked at the RCAF Bombing and Gunnery School in Fingal during WW2. Last Dance : Two youths discover each other during a last dance. Originally staged in 2017 at the InspiraTO Festival in Toronto, Last Dance has found a new home in Len Cuthbert’s collection of short plays, Reunited Shorts published by Dramatic Publishing in 2020. Life is the Train, Not the Station Two people from different generations ride the VIA and discover their unique connection to the Fingal Bombing and Gunnery School. This play explores the enduring impact of historical events on individuals across time. Stolperstein : Two distinctive girls uncover their parallel lives. Originally staged at the Stillwater Short Play Festival in Oklahoma2, Stolperstein won the People’s Choice Award.
SNAPSHOTS not only serves as a poignant reflection on the local history of Fingal but also as a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the RCAF veterans. As the production takes the stage, it invites the audience to step back in time and appreciate the rich tapestry of stories woven into the fabric of their community. Len Cuthbert’s creation is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in preserving the legacy of those who came before us. The show will be performed at 2 pm and 7 pm at the Keystone Complex (35921 Talbot Line, Shedden) on the 19th and 20th before moving on to the Wright Family Performing Arts & Entertainment Centre (13 Front Street West, Strathroy) for two shows on April 21st. To purchase tickets go to the Township Office (35663 Fingal Line, Fingal) or online at www.onstagedirect.com.
www.salusmutual.ca 866.931.2809
Page 8 Real Living • Winter 2024
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Books: Fordmates by Ivo Moravec Ivo Moravec worked on the line at Ford’s St. Thomas Assembly Plant for twenty-one years, and has since become a unique voice in Canadian literature. Born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, where he began his literary career, and wrote song lyrics, television scripts, a theater play and children stories, Ivo defected to Austria in 1983, and then emigrated to Canada. Ivo retired from Ford in 2007.
production of Ford Crown Victorias and Mercury Grand Marquises but also of daydreams and paycheques, of philosophers and drug addicts, and of broken families and best mates,” explains Ivo. “Many of the stories revel in some unexpected small victory extracted from the daily routine, from the giddy foolishness of gloveball fights and improbable practical jokes to the terse satisfaction of outsmarting overbearing foremen.” Wrote Stan Dragland (author, poet and professor emeritus at Western University): “Fordmates is a book of hilariously subversive interconnected stories set in a particular Ford assembly plant. In this wonderful book you are shown, from start to finish, how a car is put together. You feel the mental and physical toll on the workers who assemble it. You experience the tension between human freedom and restraint, human creativity and mindless automation, that is life on the assembly line. A sense of humour, empathy, imagination and intelligence are all fully engaged in this encounter with a Ford plant plumb full of fascinating characters.” Read Fordmates to learn... what happens when assembly line meets opera, whether a robot can go insane, if the production line can help a worker to survive the attack of a gold-digger, how to wrestle with a Chronomeister and how to hunt for a rattlesnake on the loose in the plant! Fordmates was published by The Porcupine’s Quill, September 2023. It is available at the Oxford Book Store at 262 Picadilly St., in London, Ontario and on Amazon and other online retailers and at The Porcupine’s Quill (www.porcupinesquill.ca). Look also for Ivo’s book Tightrope Passage / Along the Refugee Route to Canada ; McClelland & Stewart, ISBN 0-7710-6500-0, published April 12, 1997, among others. THE TURKEY SHOPPE
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The collection of short stories in his new book, Fordmates ricochet between comedy and tragedy, exploring the conflict existing between the demands and tedium of a mass production factory and the human instincts, needs, spirit and aspirations of the assembly line workers. “They are stories of not only the North Star Windows & Doors can help you save money on your energy bills. We offer many different glass options, such as Low-E Glass, triple-glazing and inert gas fills for windows to keep your home cozy in frigid temperatures and comfortable during the warmer months. The technology might be invisible, but you’re sure to see the savings. We offer many different glass options, such as Low-E Glass, triple-glazing and inert gas fills for windows to keep your home cozy in frigid temperatures and comfortable during the warmer months. The technology might be invisible, but you’re sure to see the savings. We offer many different glass options, such as Low-E Glass, triple-glazing and inert gas fills for windows to keep your home cozy in frigid temperatures and comfortable during the warmer months. The technology might be invisible, but you’re sure to see the savings. We offer many different glass options, such as Low-E Glass, triple-glazing and inert gas fills for windows to keep your home cozy in frigid temperatures and comfortable during the warmer months. The technology might be invisible, but you’re sure to see the savings. Triple-Glazing Inert Gas Fills Inert Gas Fills Saving Energy Never Felt Better. North Star Windows & Doors can help you save money on your energy bills.
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 9
Bringing the Farm to the Heart of the City Since 1878 by Sarah Noble, Manager of Marketing & Communications for the St. Thomas EDC The Horton Farmers’ Market is a vibrant weekly market operating its full season in Downtown St. Thomas for 26 weeks, opening the Saturday of Mother’s Day weekend (May 11, 2024). The market also hosts a Christmas Market in mid- November and operates indoors on a smaller scale through the winter months. Horton is proudly a producer-based market focusing on locally grown and produced foods and artisan goods. Vendors are welcomed from a radius of 60km to support keeping dollars local. The vendors are small business people and farmers - no resellers here. It’s one of the few designated farmers’ markets locally maintaining greater than 50% farm vendors over the course of the season. While some vendors attend the market every week, there is always something new to discover, be it seasonal produce coming on - early spring boasts asparagus and rhubarb while the fall offers squash and apples - or those who pop up at the market occasionally. Attending the market each Saturday is always a fresh experience. Bountiful produce options offer faithful favourites and the opportunity to discover fruits and vegetables that might be new to you. A benefit of shopping at a farmers’ market is the chance to chat with the growers to learn more about the produce available – and they can often share recipe ideas to get you started.
The market is rain or shine, with vendors under pavilions (May- November) or indoors to protect them and shoppers. During the main season, the market team activates the market with live music and family-friendly activities. Some of our vendors add to the atmosphere in the winter, sharing their musical talents. Circle Saturdays on your calendar this year to make the Horton Farmers’ Market a regular part of your weekend routine! Visit The Horton Farmers’ Market at 10 Manitoba Street, a half block north of Talbot. There is parking available onsite and on the street. Winter hours are Saturdays, 9 am to 1 pm until April 20. The Horton Farmers’ Market regular season opens May 11, from 8 am to noon. Local farmers interested in participating at the market can apply through our website and contact the market team with any questions. The Horton Farmers’ Market is part of Elgin/ St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre, meaning the market team also provides wrap-around support for vendors, including access to business advisors, workshops and more! It’s a unique opportunity to engage with customers at a traditional farmers’ market while accessing additional support for your farm business. For regular updates about what’s happening
each weekend, follow along on social media or sign up for the Horton Newsletter at hortonfarmersmarket.ca.
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Page 10 Real Living • Winter 2024
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Elgin County’s Business Retention and Expansion Program: Fostering Growth in Our Local Business Community by Abigail Moore, Business Enterprise Facilitator Our recently launched Business Retention and Expansion (BR+E) Program, initiated in November, is gaining momentum with active participation from over 50 local businesses. This proactive initiative aims to understand better the challenges and opportunities faced by local businesses in our area. For Elgin County business owners, the program, which remains open until February 29th, presents a unique opportunity to enhance support for both their individual enterprises and the broader business community. Conducted through confidential meetings at the business’s location, these sessions foster open and honest dialogue, providing a platform for businesses to share experiences, discuss upcoming activities, and suggest ways in which the public sector can offer support. Beyond the immediate benefits of these consultations, a leadership team, including Elgin County’s Chief Administrative Officers, will meticulously analyze the data collected. This dedicated team will identify trends, strengths, and challenges, strategically determining goals and priorities to improve services for the future. A comprehensive report and recommendations are scheduled to be presented to Councils and the public by the end of June.
To schedule an interview, businesses can utilize our convenient online booking tool at progressivebynature.com/elgin-bre; email economicdevelopment@elgin.ca or phone (519) 631-1460 ext. 199. Explore program details at progressivebynature.com/elgin-bre. The BR+E Program is not just a conversation; it’s an opportunity to grow your business and contribute to a thriving local business community.
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 11
Remember to take care of yourself this year by Laura Fraser, OFA Member Service Representative, Oxford and Elgin Counties Laura.fraser@ofa.on.ca A New Year is well underway, and I hope that it has been a smooth transition for all. For many, a new year is the time for new routines and fresh starts. According
improvement or personal development, we focus on doing more of what makes us happy and feel fulfilled? If the Babylonian’s resolutions were as simple as paying debts and returning borrowed property, could we not just vow to visit friends more often or take time to read a good book? We all know that in the farming community, our physical and mental health often takes a back seat to endless lists of chores and work. Do More Ag is a charity organization focusing on mental health in agriculture across Canada. They outline five simple ways to de-stress on the farm: 1. Make time for self-care 2. Foster healthy relationships 3. Improve your sleep So, if your resolutions at the start of the year are already a distant memory, give yourself a break and try simply focusing on what makes you happy. We all know the old expression, ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup,’ so find what fills your cup, and enjoy. 4. Reduce time spent on social media 5. Learn more about mental health.
to the Almanac, New Year’s resolutions are nothing new. In 2000 B.C., the Babylonians celebrated the New Year during a 12-day festival called Akitu (starting with the vernal equinox). This started the farming season – to plant crops, crown their king, and make promises to pay their debts. One common resolution was the return of borrowed farm equipment. By the 17th century, New Year’s resolutions were so common that folks found humour in the idea of making and breaking their pledges. A Boston newspaper from 1813 featured the first recorded use of the phrase ‘New Year resolution’. The article states: And yet, I believe there are multitudes of people, accustomed to receive injunctions of New Year resolutions, who will sin all the month of December, with a serious determination of beginning the New Year with new resolutions and new behavior, and with the full belief that they shall thus expiate and wipe away all their former faults. Some may set ambitious goals for personal growth or self- care, using this time as a reset in their day-to-day routines, such as eating healthy, saving money or exercising more. What if instead of placing pressure on ourselves for self-
Real Agricultural Elgin Living Winter 2024 cover Cold weather once again provides some lovely “Winter Ice Sculptures” in Port Stanley. Photo courtesy of Frank Pelsoczi
REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural
Did you know some plants should be started 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost? Come get your SEEDS & SOILS TODAY!
Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales
Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 All articles written by Geoff Rae unless otherwise indicated. Copy Editor – Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome.
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Page 12 Real Living • Winter 2024
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OUTSTANDING IN HER FIELD Are You New? by Sarah Harrison, Co-Owner of Mazak Farms “Are you new here? I only like to deal with the farmer.” That is what a customer said to me not long ago when they were at the farm to make a purchase. My first thought … well, it wasn’t very polite, so I won’t repeat it, but my actual response to him
was, “No, not new, and surprisingly very capable of helping you with what you need.” The older man was unimpressed. Oh well! I think that as women in agriculture, sometimes we need to stand up loud and proud and say, “HEY, I’m here too!” I don’t know how it works on your operation, but my husband and I tend to have pretty traditional roles on the farm here: he is always outside in his bibs and boots; I am outside a lot, but also inside a lot, taking care of the admin side of the business, managing all of those ‘invisible’ yet necessary aspects of the farm. When I am outside, I also have bibs and boots and work alongside my husband, so why am I not seen? I’m not seen because under my bibs, I wear a pink sweater. I understand the traditional view of farmers – men. I get it, and I am very grateful for all the male farmers in my life, past and present. However, their work does not make the female farmers less valuable. In recent years, we have had staff teams solely of women, which surprised a lot of our customers because that wasn’t what they expected to see. They expected to see a middle-aged man in overalls and a straw hat working alongside
his sons and perhaps a young boy from the neighbouring farm because that’s how it plays out on TV. The reality is that we are seeing women take more active, vocal, and visible roles on today’s farms. We have had great role models! The FarmHers that came before us may not have had access to bib overalls that were designed specifically for women, but they have always had grit, knowledge, and passion. For some of them, they also didn’t have much choice. Working on the farm wasn’t necessarily a lifelong dream or something they saw on Netflix and thought they would try. It may have been the only option. We are now seeing women choosing farming as a career — their choice. We are seeing women create unique operations and produce unique products. We must start seeing and supporting those who sport a little pink around the farm.
Keep being outstanding in your field. % With so much to gain, and nothing to lose, make sure you call Mark first! Why is that small number SO BIG?
2% is the commission charged at Cosens Auctions for all of our real estate auctions. Have an estate you need to deal with but you don’t have the time or energy? Downsizing and can’t take it all? Skip the yard sales and call Cosens Auctions & Appraisals first. We don’t just auction the home, we will get it ready for sale, including clean up. The online auction wouldn’t just be the home, it would be the furniture, collectables, vehicles, Bric a Brac etc. • Cosens Auctions & Appraisals was established in 1969. • Save your free time and family drama. • Listed on MLS, REALTOR.ca, Auction Sites, Social Media and Mailing lists. • Maximize your offer with multiple open bids. • You have final approval of auction sale price. SOLD AT AUCTION Cosens Auctions
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Mark Cosens Call or Text 519-282-8044 777 Talbot St., St. Thomas ON N5P 1E3 mark@cosensauctions.com
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 13
Looking for a New Shed this Spring?
Simply Pure Water The LOCAL Water Experts
Chris Patriquin Repairs and Service to most makes and models Softeners, Iron Removers, Sterilization P: 519-637-3306 www.simplypurewater.ca
Let us make the Custom Made, Locally Built Shed Your Back Yard Deserves! Hand Crafted – Custom Built Mini Barns • Work Sheds • Play Houses Pool Change Rooms
Since 1974 10055 Carter Rd.
ROB FLACK MPP- Elgin–Middlesex–London
Here to help with issues related to: • Ontario Benefits (ODSP, Ontario Works) • Health Care • Birth Certificates • Community and Social Services
Electrical & Plumbing Supplies Fasteners • Signage Lifting & Rigging Equipment For all your home and job site needs
Open Monday-Friday 10am - 4pm 750 Talbot St., Suite 201, St. Thomas, ON 519-631-5995 • 1-800-265-7638 • rob.flack@pc.ola.org
39 Burwell Road, St. Thomas, ON (519) 633-5884 • sales@r-safety.ca • www.r-safety.ca AYLMER RAD SHOP & AGRICULTURAL PARTS Aylmer’s best source for high-quality, fairly priced parts.
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Page 14 Real Living • Winter 2024
519-631-1333 • 6804 Sunset Drive Beside the Masonic Centre and Shaw's It is evident that Deanna and Scott are passionate about empowering others to manage their healthcare information, exclaiming, “The health system is for everyone!” The Patient Portal utilizes a single portal while honouring the Elgin Ontario Health Team’s priority to place control back into the hands of the people. For security purposes, there is a registration process on this user-friendly site. Moreover, patients will be notified of new results. ConnectMyHealth Patient Portal, Accessible and Empowering by Peri Hayes Do you know about the ConnectMyHealth Patient Portal? Deanna Huggett is the Executive Director of the Elgin Ontario Health Team, while Scott May is the Communication and Engagement Lead. Striving to improve health and well-being in Elgin County, the Patient Portal is an innovative, free and secure resource for individuals to feel comfortable accessing their health care information, including digital imaging, lab and microbiology details, radiology reports, hospital discharge summaries and more and to review their health care records in live time. Through an organized and updated design, this information is made easy to be shared with care providers and family members. To familiarize users with this technology as it evolves, ConnectMyHealth will be offering a Digital Health Literacy Session in the New Year with further details to be announced. The Elgin Ontario Health Team is working with community members, organizations and healthcare partners in the surrounding area to support navigation of the healthcare system. This is a collaborative effort involving participating Ontario Health Teams and more.
With a platform which allows access to personal healthcare receipts from anywhere at any time, Scott declares, “We encourage people to register!” Deanna adds, “We are focusing our efforts on improving the awareness of this service and empowering self-management. Online access tackles both of these goals while responding to community needs.” Explore the info.connectmyhealth.ca website to learn more about this productive initiative, which supports the healthcare and education of citizens in Ontario.
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Real Living • Winter 2024 • Page 15
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