EYOND B oomers Celebrating the 55+ Community of Elgin County December 2024 • Issue 56
B and
Letter from the Editor I am not a good singer -- I can’t emphasize this enough; I have little rhythm; I can’t do scales and more often than not when I sing, it sounds like I am doing a Bob Dylan impression. That being said, we have reached that time of year where I randomly burst out into Christmas Carols at any given
ever to support your local merchants as the rising costs are hurting them more than the big conglomerates. A dollar spent here in your community cycles through the community and helps everyone! Also, if you can, I would also encourage you to donate to one of our local charities; there are so many good options. Pick your favourite and help them along. Speaking of helping the community. St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 2 wrapped up this past month with a sizeable donation headed towards Hospice of Elgin. What a fun and great event. We are already looking forward to next year. Read all about it on the next page, and a profile of our winner on pages 6 and 7. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a most wonderful Christmas and Holiday season. I hope each and every one of you makes the most of the season and builds wonderful memories for years to come! Thank you for letting Boomers & Beyond be part of your monthly ritual. And I will leave you with a joke: How did Scrooge win the football game? Because the Ghost of Christmas passed!
moment. Doing dishes, Silent Night ; laundry, The Christmas Song ; walking around, Little Drummer Boy . It is this time of year I become a solo caroler and I don’t really care who is listening. Christmas carols put me in a happy place. Top 5 Christmas Songs, according to me (in no particular order): Spirit of Christmas, Little Drummer Boy, I Believe in Father Christmas, Holy Night and Snoopy vs. the Red Baron . There is just something about this season that puts me in a great mood. I am usually pretty happy, almost always optimistic, and I would even say chipper (to say bubbly would be too far). But like Buddy the Elf, the holidays brings my mood to an 11 -- the music, the movies, the food, and spending time with friends and family. For me it is a great excuse to get together with people in my life whom I may not get to see as often as I would like. Plus, getting together is an excellent way to go out and explore some local restaurants that I have been wanting to try! Once again, this year I will ask that you do your best to shop local for the holidays. It seems now even more important than Spend the Holidays with the Old St. Thomas Church
Boomers and Beyond – Elgin Magazine has partnered with local businesses to help share the joy of Christmas with local seniors. Search this magazine for this Santa logo, and each time you find him, you will see a business that cared about sharing a smile this Christmas. Each of these Santas represents gifts given to local seniors through the Smiles for Seniors How you can win!
oomers B and EYOND B at Christmas program. This year, with the support of our local businesses, we have been able to donate $3,300, and over four years, we have given more than $15,000 in total. If you can spot all the Santas, you, too, have a chance to win. Count the Santas and send an email with your name, phone number and the name of this magazine to hometown@ villagerpublications.com with the correct number of Santas for your chance to win. On December 15th, we will randomly draw one name from the correct entries, and you could win a $50 Briwood Farm Market gift certificate just in time for Christmas! MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Start the Christmas Season with our Carol Sing Sunday, December 1st, 3 pm. Dress warm. Christmas Eve Candle Light Service Tuesday, December 24th, starting at 11 pm 55 Walnut Street
Page 2 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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Oh, What a Wonderful Night! Another one is in the books! On Saturday, November 2, the St. Thomas Seniors’ Centre and I hosted the second annual St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 2 (STSGT2), presented by Nurse Next Door, to another packed house. Though it’s a one-night showcase, it took months of planning, practice, and teamwork to make the event a memorable success. And what a success it was! In early October, nearly 20 hopefuls auditioned for this year’s show. It was a challenge to narrow it down, but I believe we chose the perfect top 10. The night began with The Golden Oldies Trio — Janet Sales, Deb Vosburg, and Ruth Warren — followed by guitarist and singer Maurice Bigras. Sharon Lebert brought energy to the stage with her tap dancing. Then Gene Corless wowed the crowd with his trumpet. Steve Ogden wrapped up the first half with a spirited rendition of Harry Belafonte’s Jump in the Line . After a brief intermission, we welcomed The Pine Valley Ukes — a ukulele group featuring Merv Bruce, Carolyn Jensen, Karen Auckland, Cheryl Dawdy, Lynn McPherson, Debbie Logghe, and Karen Olmstead. Ruth Warren returned, this time performing solo on the accordion. Next, Madeline Carter graced the audience with her vocals, accompanied by pianist Susan Pounthey. Tom Martin then took the stage with La Vie En Rose , and finally, Allan Weatherall rounded out the performers with a beautiful rendition of What a Wonderful World on his flugelhorn. A special highlight, Mary Beth Braiden, last year’s winner, performed an original song dedicated to her mother. Our esteemed judges for the evening — MP Karen Vecchio, Mayor Joe Preston, and myFM’s Dave Thomson — had the difficult task of selecting the top three. They chose Tom Martin, Gene Corless, and Allan Weatherall, with Gene ultimately being named the STSGT2 winner. Read our profile on this year’s winner on pages 6 and 7. The other big winner of the night was Hospice of Elgin, the beneficiary of the event proceeds, with a donation total of $3,342. Of course, an event like this wouldn’t be possible without our sponsors. We’re grateful to presenting sponsor, Nurse
The Golden Oldies Trio
Next Door and supporters, Elgin Audiology, Royal Oak Senior Living, Briwood Farm Market, The Horton Market, Metcalfe Gardens, myFM, Port Stanley Festival Theatre, and Love Your Feet by Pam. A huge thank you to all our sponsors and performers; to everyone who auditioned, our Emcee, Mike Vecchio, our dedicated volunteers, and to all who attended. If you have a talent to share, start practicing — you could be part of St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 3!
Sharon Lebert. Photos by Candice Van Diepen of CVD Photography.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 3
Volunteer of the Month: Malcolm Rust by Peri Haye s
Malcolm continues, “More recently, as our club’s num- ber decreased, there have been major donations in partnership with the YWCA and Indwell’s housing at The Station to the General Hospital, the Elgin Hospice and Project Tiny Hope.” As Malcolm exclaims, “I am so excited that we support ‘Start with Mothers’ honouring mothers and us-
Local volunteer, Malcolm Rust, proudly presents his background: “For years I was a Baptist minister in the UK, work I continued after coming to Canada in 1968. In this community, I am better known as the first full-time interfaith clinically trained chaplain at the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital. I loved that work, and held that position for 20 years until I retired in 2001.” Malcolm describes his introduction to the Rotary Club of St. Thomas: “Ed Willson was the Manager of the Ambulance Department at the hospital and a long-time Rotarian.” Malcolm joined despite his busy schedule, to which he declares, “I have never regretted doing so. That was over 28 years ago.” Malcolm worked alongside the late Frank Sanders while raising over $100,000.00 to equip an eye clinic in the City of Trivandrum, India. “Raising these funds with the other 60 Rotary clubs in this international District gave me insight into how Rotary works around the world. Founded in 1905 in Chicago, it now has 1.4 million neighbours, friends, leaders and problem-solvers who are people of action on the local scene and internationally. From literacy and peace to water and health, we work to better our world.” Through seven Areas of Focus, there is an array of projects for Rotarians to pursue. This year, for example, the Rotary Club of St. Thomas partnered with the St. Thomas Field Naturalist Club to support the environmental project of producing a Hawk Cliff pamphlet. “I loved being the club’s Youth Exchange Officer,” Malcolm shares. Furthermore, as he proceeds, “Our Rotary District awards a scholarship annually to a student who is interested in furthering their education in preparation for a leadership role in one of the Areas of Focus. It was a distinct pleasure to serve on that District committee for three years.” Malcolm also highlights the ways in which members work with the Rotary’s youth group, Interactors. They raise funds for various projects, meeting on a weekly basis. Upon reminiscing about previous Christmas of Homes and Rotary Music Festival events within the community,
ing a new model of educating so they can teach other mothers and children in the poorest areas of Bangladesh and Pakistan. It is having amazing success, and new projects will soon begin in India and Nigeria. The letters received bring tears of joy to our eyes.” Meanwhile, in Arusha, Tanzania, the Rotary has been helping to build washrooms in elementary schools. “The project is likely to become a model for other schools and municipalities in that country. The day we shared a meeting with them by Zoom was unforgettable,” Malcolm passionately voices. “Since 1985, Rotarians have raised millions of dollars and worked with international partners to try and eradicate polio. Smallpox was the first global infection to be eradicated. Soon polio will be the second. The annual World Polio Day was recognized locally by the Mayor’s reading of a proclamation on the steps of St. Thomas City Hall.” Asked what being a volunteer means to Malcolm, he thoughtfully replies, “I have always seen it as a responsibility and a privilege to play a role in making St. Thomas a better place and helping Canada share all aspects of its wealth with others. Volunteering with Rotary has enabled me to put those ideals into practice.” The community is invited to learn about the Rotary Club of St. Thomas’ ongoing efforts at their upcoming Open House on January 22nd from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Malcolm concludes by encouraging those interested to explore the Rotary and their volunteer opportunities. Inquiries are welcome through their website at rotarystthomas.org.
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Orange Cranberry Christmas Bundt Cake This Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake is a festive treat that embodies the essence of Christmas flavours. The vibrant cranberries and fresh orange zest bring a seasonal pop of colour and a bright, tangy-sweet taste to every bite. Combined with the warmth of cinnamon and a drizzle of orange glaze, this cake is a perfect balance of holiday flavours. Ingredients: Cake 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & levelled 2 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 1/2 tsp salt 1 1/2 cups butter, softened 1 3/4 cups packed light or dark brown sugar, divided 1/2 cup granulated sugar Zest of 1 orange 5 large eggs, at room temperature 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature 1/4 cup fresh orange juice 1 3/4 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw if frozen) 2 tsp ground cinnamon Orange Glaze 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 4 tbsp fresh orange juice Directions: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 10-inch Bundt pan. % Why is that small number SO BIG?
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, ba- king powder, and salt. Set aside. Using a mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter, 1 cup brown su-
gar, granulated sugar, and orange zest together until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla, mixing until combined. Scrape down the bowl as needed. The mixture may look curdled, but it will come together. Add the flour mixture, milk, and orange juice to the wet ingredients, beating on medium speed until fully combined. Fold in the cranberries. The batter should be thick yet smooth. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Sprinkle the swirl mixture on top and press down lightly. Cover with the remaining cake batter. Bake for 55-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool in the pan for 2 hours, then invert onto a wire rack or serving dish to cool completely. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and 4 tbsp orange juice. Pour the glaze over the cooled cake.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 5
St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 2024 Victor, Gene Corless! by Peri Hayes Gene Corless, winner of the second St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent, shares, “During the pandemic, I formed a brass trio consisting of a trumpet, a baritone and a tuba. The trio is called ‘Still Alive’, and we entered the first season of St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent.” While Gene performs tuba in this trio, he decided to enter the competition this year with his trumpet. Throughout his musical journey, Gene has participated in various competitions. This event — sponsored by Chartwell Nursing Homes — is one example, as Gene delightedly highlights, “I have been quite successful in entering the Senior Star competitions, winning four firsts and two seconds. I entered three times in Aylmer and three times in Woodstock.” Now at the age of 86, Gene has been playing the trumpet since 1950: “I have always had a passion for music. I was raised in a musical family of three generations. My mother, sister and grandmother were pianists, my father was a trained vocalist and my grandfather quite proudly played the bones and the spoons. We lived on a farm in what was known as South Dorchester Township. I started out playing ukulele when I was three or four, then graduated to a banjo and then a clarinet. I wasn’t satisfied with the clarinet, so I indicated to my father that I really would like
to play the trumpet. My father took me to a music store in London and bought me my first trumpet. ‘It was used at the time; a 1938 Martin, quality trumpet. I was 12 years old.” In addition to playing at church and school, Gene was invited to join a five-piece dance band at age 17: “That was the start of my passion for music and the trumpet. There was no money for lessons in our family. I just played what I heard.”
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Page 6 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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Gene candidly details, “Eventually after a tour through four secondary schools as a teacher, a vice principal and principal, I ended up at Parkside Collegiate in St. Thomas in 1981. I retired from Parkside as Principal in 1995. I lost a bet while at Parkside, and was forced to play my trumpet at my retirement dinner. Consequently, I dug it out of the attic, started practicing and played. After retirement, I started to do a bit of church work. I started doing the Last Post and Remembrance Day Services, and eventually joined the Aylmer Area Community Band.”
To all of our friends, have a safe and Merry Christmas
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While reflecting on his recent adventure, Gene recounts, “My experience in this competition this year was very positive. I am a performer and as such, I like to play in front of an audience. I told only a few people I was entering this competition but when questioned about entering, I just kept saying, ‘I’m not in it to win it,’ and I really believed that. I just wanted to perform and play to an audience. That’s why I’m so excited about being a guest performer next year. My recent victory means a lot to me, because the competition was terrific.” “Go for it! That’s the advice I would give anyone who is riding the fence on whether to enter or not,” Gene encourages. “Pick the type of selection that you are the most confident performing. I picked a religious number, ‘There is a Savior’, as it meant something to me personally.” This enthusiastic performer with heart concludes, “I would just like to thank the organizers and sponsors of the event, and I look forward to next year’s competition.”
Love Your Feet by Pam (226) 236-1810 378 Talbot St., Suite #7/8, St. Thomas www.loveyourfeetbypam.com Whether you are travelling for the winter, or staying home for the holidays, make sure you book an appointment!
The gift of love. The gift of peace. The gift of happiness. May all these be yours this Christmas. 519-782-4353 www.psft.ca PortStanley FestivalTheatre
Boomers and Beyond Elgin December 2024 cover Winner of St. Thomas Seniors Got Talent 2, Gene Corless, poses with his well earned trophy. Photo by Candice Van Diepen of CVD Photography.
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 7
Enjoying the Magic of the Season with your Grandkids! There’s nothing quite like seeing Christmas through the eyes of a child, and as a grandparent, you have a unique role in making the season unforgettable. Creating magical holiday experiences with grandchildren doesn’t require extravagance — just a little creativity, shared traditions, and time together. One of the best ways to make the holidays memorable is through crafting. Holiday crafts are not only fun but can become keepsakes that last. Younger grandchildren enjoy making simple decorations like paper snowflakes, reindeer headbands, or decorating ornaments, while older ones might take pride in sewing a stocking or painting holiday figurines. These projects give kids a chance to express themselves and provide them with a tangible memory of the time you spent together. When those ornaments come out each year, they’ll be reminded of the special holiday moments you shared. Reading Christmas stories together is another time- honoured way to build holiday magic. Choose a cozy spot, dim the lights, and read classics like The Night Before Christmas or How the Grinch Stole Christmas. These stories have enchanted generations, and now it’s your chance to pass them along. For older children, consider introducing longer holiday-themed books, like The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, which can be read in parts over several days. If you have letters to Santa from years past,
reading them aloud can also bring back sweet memories and spark fun conversations about past Christmases. Baking holiday treats together is a simple yet powerful way to bond over Christmas. Children love the hands-on fun of cutting out gingerbread men, decorating sugar cookies, and using sprinkles, icing, or even edible glitter. The warm scent of baking fills the house, setting a cozy atmosphere, while the flour-covered hands, sticky smiles, and laughter create some of the best memories. Take a few pictures too; you’ll want to remember these joyful moments. Christmas Eve is a perfect time to build excitement and start new traditions. Let grandchildren unwrap one gift, perhaps a holiday book or cozy pyjamas, and help them set out cookies and milk for Santa. Another favourite is scattering reindeer food (oats mixed with a sprinkle of glitter) on the lawn to lead Santa’s reindeer. These small rituals deepen the sense of wonder that makes the holidays feel so special. For a final touch, consider surprising your grandchildren with a visit from Santa or a personalized letter. Many services (such as the website Cameo.com) offer custom letters or even a recorded Santa call to make them feel extra special. In the end, these simple, heartfelt gestures create a magical season filled with love and laughter — the true spirit of Christmas that will stay with them for years to come.
The VON Elgin Memorial Tree is a way to honour loved ones during the holiday season. Family and friends are recognized and remembered with an ornament at the Elgin County Railway Museum Christmas Tree Spectacular.
From 2 to 102 may the holiday spirit never leave you
Contact the VON at 519-637-6408 for more information and to order your free ornament. VON Grief and Bereavement Services provide supports over the holiday season and throughout the year.
519-631-1030 350 Burwell Rd, St. Thomas
Happy Holidays
May you and your family enjoy the magic of the season! Merry Christmas
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Page 8 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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The Rise and Fall of the Christmas Card The tradition of sending Christmas cards has a rich history. The practice began in England in 1843 when Sir Henry Cole, a prominent educator and government worker, found himself overwhelmed by the task of writing individual holiday greetings. To save time, he commissioned artist John Callcott Horsley to design a card featuring a festive family scene with the message, “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.” The card’s convenience and appeal quickly gained popularity, especially as improvements in postal services made sending mail more accessible. As the custom spread across Europe and North America, Christmas cards evolved into an art form, with intricate illustrations of winter landscapes, holly, and cheerful carollers. By the early 1900s, Canada had embraced this tradition wholeheartedly.Eachcardbecameanexpressionofpersonality and sentiment, often bearing family photos, handwritten notes, and thoughtful holiday wishes. Christmas cards bridged the distance between loved ones, offering a tangible reminder of connection during a season of togetherness. With the rise of colour printing and large card companies in the 20th century, Christmas cards became more affordable and diverse. Glittering snow scenes, Santa Claus, and humorous designs added to the fun. Sending a holiday card stack was common, and cards often included family updates and holiday plans. I, myself, enjoy displaying some of my favourite funny Christmas cards each year. MEDIA GROUP ft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 0600 drmg.com AD SAVE AD SAVE D SAVE MEDIA GROUP t Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 600 drmg.com MEDIA GROUP t Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 600 drmg.com D SAVE D SAVE D SAVE DIRECT RESPONSE DIRECT RESPONSE DIRECT RESPONSE DIRECT RESPONSE MEDIA GROUP oft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 0600 drmg.com
In recent decades, however, the tradition has declined. Digital communication now offers faster, more convenient options, making handwritten cards seem outdated. Younger generations may see them as unnecessary, and environmental concerns have contributed to their decline. Yet there is something uniquely special about a physical Christmas card, and for many, it remains a cherished ritual. A holiday card represents thoughtfulness, offering a break from the digital rush and a return to a slower, more intentional form of connection. Reviving the tradition of Christmas cards is a way to bring back a bit of nostalgia and genuine connection. In an age where holiday cheer often arrives as a ping or a notification, a Christmas card can be a meaningful reminder of a time when holiday greetings were sent from the heart. JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC MAILING MONTH FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6 FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6 FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6 FULL PAGE 10.875”w x 6
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MEDIA GROUP 240 Wyecroft Road, Oakville, ON L6K 2G7 1 866 993-0600 drmg.com
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 9 BRING THE OUTSIDE IN
Avoiding the Fall by VON Middlesex-Elgin Team
strategies, enabling seniors to live without the fear of falling. Staying active is an important part of staying healthy and independent. Our exercise and fall prevention classes are designed to enhance strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. They also aim to decrease social isolation and minimize hospital visits due to falls. Additionally, we teach seniors and adults with disabilities how to stay safe, remain active, and improve their strength and balance, regardless of their fitness level. These classes are ideal for clients who find it hard to take part in traditional exercise classes due to low mobility or poor health. The gentle yet progressive classes are led by a trained VON fitness instructor and/or volunteer. Group exercise classes truly cater to everyone in the community -- at retirement homes, or through zoom. The format can be easily adjusted to accommodate various levels of mobility and ability. Participants have the choice to use a chair for part of the class; in fact, VON classes can be conducted either seated or standing! Additionally, there are specialized classes for individuals living with Parkinson’s, MS, and for those recovering from brain injuries or strokes. All locations also feature an educational segment, exploring common fall risks and effective strategies to reduce risks. Contact the VON office at 519-659-2273 to learn more about SMART Exercise and Fall Prevention Classes in your area and to register.
In Canada, falls represent the leading cause of injury- related hospitalizations and deaths among individuals aged 65 and older. These injuries not only reduce the quality of life for seniors but also place added pressure on caregivers; they boost the number of admissions to long-term care facilities and add to the financial impact of treating fall-related injuries. Falls among older adults represent a significant public health issue globally. The World Health Organization reports that approximately one-third of older adults experience falls each year, with rates ranging from 32% to 42% for those aged 70 and older. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported that 1 in 3 seniors will fall this year and those with a history of falls or chronic conditions are at a greater risk of falling. Dr. El-Khoury reported in a randomized control trial that falls and related injuries, such as hip fractures, can seriously impact the lives of many older adults but the good news is that simple steps like attending local exercise programs or being active can prevent falls or the severity of injuries. Exercise has been proven to help seniors reduce fall risks by up to 34% depending on the program. November was falls prevention month but exploring evidence-based prevention should be a focus for seniors all year long. To address the increasing number of fall- related injuries among older adults, VON Middlesex-Elgin provides proactive measures that promote fall prevention
May the Christmas Season Bring you Peace and Joy.
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You are never too old for the holidays!
Happy Holidays, Wishing you all the peace and joy in this Holiday Season
Page 10 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre Classes Brought to you by Nurse Next Door by Peri Hayes
Nurse Next Door
As Max Nechytailo enthusiastically introduces, “I offer an art class where students can choose their favourite medium; whether it’s acrylics, watercolour, oil, pastels, charcoal, coloured pencils, markers or pens, my students will feel comfortable and free to explore different paints and themes in their art. In each lesson I’ll guide them with simple examples, showing how to create any subject they can imagine. Beginners and advanced artists alike are welcome to experience the nuances of various painting techniques. Here, you can enjoy the creative process with any medium you choose and dive into a world where everything is possible to paint.” While discussing his background, Max describes, “My entire life has been intertwined with creating art and crafting various creative projects. I hold a diploma that qualifies me to teach children in an art school and have extensive experience as a portrait artist; watercolour urban landscapes, oil painting and abstract acrylic art. I am skilled in digital art, working as a 2-D artist on a graphics tablet in Photoshop. I also create wooden and metal sculptures, work as an art restorer and design furniture. I founded my own art studio and have taught art classes in Kyiv, Ukraine, prior to coming to Canada in 2022.” Max relocated to Canada with his family following the Russian invasion. He previously dedicated three years to the restoration of a Catholic cathedral in Bytom, Poland, which entailed painted walls, roofs and portraits of religious figures. As well as having works displayed across Canada and Ukraine, several of his pieces are part of private collections.. Presently, a selection of Max’s paintings and sculptures are exhibited at the Art Emporium in Port Stanley, where he has enjoyed teaching for two years. In November, Max debuted his workshops at St. Thomas- Elgin Public Art Centre (STEPAC). He is excited to be leading ‘Master of the Brush’ art classes, with these sessions having been offered on Saturdays from 12:30 pm until 2:30 pm. Depending on interest, Max shares that those hours may change and potentially expand in 2025. “For students attending my art class for the first time, I will be able to provide some of my basic art supplies for free,” he graciously details, “including brushes, paper, pencils, acrylic and watercolour paints.” Thereafter, students will bring their own materials. As Max thoughtfully expresses, “In my classes, I care deeply about each student’s progress. Each student works on their own masterpiece, which they can complete
and take home. For many of my students who have been taking art lessons consistently for the past two years, this is a joyful time they truly love. The paintings they’ve created bring them happiness, and they remember every brushstroke that led them to such beautiful results. The creative atmosphere helps people take a break from their worries, believe in their abilities and find inspiration. I am grateful to witness the harmonious growth of my students.” Phone STEPAC at 519-631-4040 to direct inquiries about these creative classes, or to register for a four-week session with Max.
1-519-859-5070 nursenextdoor.com
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 11
From Over the Hill: December by Peter Bloch-Hansen blochhansenpeter@gmail.com Scholars say Jesus was born between 6 and 4 BC, in spring or autumn, but definitely not in December. So why Christmas in December, the darkest
Solstice celebrations were festivals of hope connected with the return of sunlight, warmth and fertility. But maybe, you want the Christ Mass to be a thoroughly Christian celebration and not any those nasty pagan parties. So again, it doesn’t much matter, since almost nobody remembers or celebrates the solstice anyway – or will admit it. So what does matter? Depends whom you ask. Retail store owners and toy company executives will report that December accounts for about half their yearly sales. Credit card companies will rhapsodize about sky-high balances. Turkey farmers will report on the careful calculations and months-long planning it takes to ensure Christmas dinner tables won’t lack for drumsticks. Certainly, Christmas presents massive opportunities for lots of people, which does matter...though maybe we actually could get along just fine without a lot of that? People talk about the joy of the season, the uplifting spirit of the holidays – though in some circles you’re not allowed to call it ‘the Christmas season’, which is what it is, since Christmas is the whole reason for the holiday in the first place. Wanna argue about it? I don’t care and why? Because for all their various reasons, people use this holiday to connect with people they care about, a beautiful spirit and the one we should concentrate on. To say that celebrating Christmas excludes people who don’t celebrate it is just silly because a festival that inspires that spirit of connecting, if it means anything, should inspire us to connect-- in whatever ways -- with everyone all the time, and to be happy for the joy that others find in their own festivals. Now, to be fair, the whole wooplah of the Christmas season can seem to exclude others but why? It isn’t the cozy family dinners or the church services (wonderful music), or the crèches and lit up trees (poor doomed things). It’s those December sales figures, credit card balances and all the rest, that have made this lovely, intimate celebration such an overblown, over hyped, farcical corruption of its original intent. That said, a truth remains, more felt than spoken, a truth of connection: so, as we pass through these wintry December days, please consider that with all the different ways and times we celebrate what’s highest, most deeply important to us, we’re all, fundamentally, celebrating the same thing. So, in that spirit, Merry Christmas, everyone!
month? Nobody’s sure, but since for Christians, the resurrection is the important thing, I’m not sure it matters. But getting back to the darkness thing, December does seem a great month for an all-out, rip-roarin’, root’n, toot’n celebration! Certainly the Romans thought so; they had two -- Sol Invictus and Saturnalia. Now, the shortest daylight of the year is the winter solstice, December 2ist, not the 25th.
The Community Recycling Centre winter hours are Wednesdays from 8am to 4:30pm and on Saturdays from 8am to 3pm. Community Recycling Centre will be closed Wednesday, December 25th. HOLIDAY WASTE COLLECTION SCHEDULE Regular Collection Day Rescheduled Collection Day Wednesday December 25 2024 Thursday December 26 2024 Thursday December 26 2024 Friday December 27 2024 Friday December 27 2024 Saturday December 28 2024 Wednesday January 1 2025 Thursday January 2 2025 Thursday January 2 2025 Friday January 3 2025 Friday January 3 2025 Saturday January 4 2025 Natural Christmas Trees can be brought to the Community Recycling Centre for free. Household Hazardous Waste is only accepted Wednesdays from 10 am – 2 pm and on Saturdays from 8 am – 3 pm. For more information regarding waste management, please contact the City of St. Thomas Environmental Services Department at 330 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas Ontario 519-631-1680 ext. 4258 www.stthomas.ca
Page 12 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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20 The neighbour’s family dog breed 21 Gift Aunt Clara gives Ralphie this kind of suit 22 Scut had this colour of eyes 23 He gets his tongue stuck to a pole Down 1 After the turkey is ruined they have this type of bird for dinner 2 Ralphie’s neighbour’s family name 4 In this Randy couldn’t get his arms down 8 Ralphie’s dad was always battling this household appliance 9 This man kicks Ralphie down the slide
10 Street where the Parkers live 11 Ralphie’s dad’s nickname 13 Ralphie gets this from the Little Orphan Annie Show 14 Ralphie’s mom is afraid he will do this to his eye 15 Type of restaurant where the Parkers eat dinner 16 Randy’s mom convinces him to eat like a... 17 Ralphie’s little brother 21 Ralphie’s dad gets this kinda ball for Christmas
Across 2 The name of the villain Ralphie shoots with his BB Gun, Black --- 3 Ralphie’s dream gun has this in the stock 5 He broke protocol by triple-dog daring Ralphie 6 His bully is Scut ______ 7 Randy’s food aversion 12 Ralphie’s dad thought this was a word in Italian 14 Ralphie’s school teacher, Mrs. --- 16 Ralphie’s last name 18 Ralphie is reminded to drink this by his ring 19 Ralphie’s dad wins this type of lamp
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 13
Senior men are from Mars from Terry Carroll ‘When women go on vacation, they pack everything they need. Men pack a few things, and when they arrive, they buy whatever they’re missing.’ So quipped outstanding salesman, remarkable community fundraiser and expert Kiwanis Club Fine Master, Bob
Nancy is a pro at adaptation. She was sure Shoppers Drug Mart carried over-the-counter mouthguards. Guided by Google Maps, we located a store open until midnight. Now, when it comes to pricing, seniors live in an alternate universe — a time when a driveable VW cost $400, a starter home $50,000, and when we were going to quit smoking if a pack of cigarettes ever went to a buck. I found $34.99 plus tax a tad expensive. But the packaging advertised ‘one size fits all’; good sleep is important, and I added a bag of trail mix to handle the munchies brought on by stress. Total bill: $60.65. Back at the Blue Moon by 8:30, we unwrapped the Life Brand Grind Guard packaging to discover ‘one size fits all’ only fits after you insert the Grind Guard in water that has been boiling for 15 seconds, then cool the soft plastic guard enough to fit it in your mouth. Do not use a microwave!, the instructions warned. A microwave being the sole source of ‘cooking’ in room at the Blue Moon, we had to improvise. According to the instructions, we needed a pan in which to boil water, a metal fork and a plate. Assisted by Google, we found a Walmart Supercentre open until 11. Around 10:30 pm, exhausted and $43.04 poorer, we returned to the Blue Moon with an electric kettle, a metal fork, a small Pyrex measuring glass, and a plate. I filled the kettle with water, inserted the glass upside-down on top of the metal heating plate at the bottom of the kettle and let it reach a rolling boil. With the metal fork, I dropped the Grind Guard onto the glass, left it for 15 seconds, drew it out with the metal fork and let it cool a little on the plate, then moulded it to my teeth. It worked. Was the adventure a bargain at the cost of 100 packs of cigarettes in 1970? I can’t say. I can say I am a man. If a man doesn’t pack everything, he pays for it when he arrives, sometimes in more than one sense. Terry can be reached at terry@carrollgroup.ca.
Heath, some twenty years ago. On the journey to becoming the man my lovely wife, Nancy always knew I could become (if I would only listen), Bob’s line lodged in my brain like the chorus of a sad song. I developed the habit of starting to jam clothes in my suitcase about an hour before departure. If I was missing something, I could always buy it when I arrived. However, I didn’t leave everything to the vagaries of memory. Not at all. I worked from a list. A distinction needs to be made between having a list and following that list to the letter, as I learned (once again, as if for the first time) on a gorgeous October evening. After a four-hour, leisurely afternoon drive, followed by supper at Boston Pizza, Nancy and I returned to the Blue Moon Motel in Niagara Falls. We were in town to celebrate our fifty-first wedding anniversary and ready to hit the sack early before exploring tourist traps on Saturday. During the unpacking ritual, it dawned on me that I was missing the $300+ mouth guard I insert nightly to prevent the grinding of teeth due to the stress of living a life of last-minute preparation, more commonly known as procrastination. Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor / Sales Geoff@villagerpublications.com • 519-495-7177 Copy Editor: Peter Bloch-Hansen Publisher: Barb Botten barb@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome. Please email hometown@villagerpublications.com. We look forward to hearing from you. oomers oomers B and EYOND B 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.
750 Talbot St.• Suite 125 • St. Thomas • ON 226-210-1086 • office@simplicity-cremation.ca WWW.SIMPLICITY-CREMATION.CA
Page 14 Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024
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BADDA BOOM! by Frances Kennedy franceskennedy782@gmail com
Christmas Memories are Made in the Kitchen
“The everyday human gesture is always a heartbeat away from the miraculous. Remember that ultimately we make things happen through our actions, way beyond our understanding or intention; that our
235 Graham St. West Lorne, ON C omplimentary in-store or in-home consultations O ffering N ew C abinetry as well as R efinishing & R efacing existing 519-317-8746 • D avey A nd D avey C abinetry . ca
seemingly small, ordinary human acts have untold consequences; that what we do in this world means something; that we are not nothing and that our human actions by their nature burst the seams of our intent and spill meaningfully and radically through time and space, changing everything. Our deeds, no matter how insignificant they may feel, are replete with meaning, and of vast consequence and constantly, impact upon the unfolding story of the world, whether we know it or not.” -- Musician Nick Cave from The Red Hand Files Why is this idea relevant now as we approach the holiday season? It’s simple: we have come to a stage of life when our adult children have every right and responsibility to celebrate the high holidays according to their circumstances. What does that mean for us? Angst, anger, or freedom from the rigidity of traditions. Rigidity is an absurdity since life is a guaranteed flow of constant change. So, instead, let’s consider how to make the most of everyday human gestures for the sake of peace, harmony and personal happiness when traditions can be a stranglehold. As the mother of three sons, I learned early that the mother of the bride takes precedence over the mother of the groom. I chose to see that as a freedom to wear what suited me on their wedding days, and I did. Further, I learned that the wife is the social planner, and her mother has priority over high holidays. I took a broader view of holidays to include all of November and December. My sons were grateful for the flexibility and gathering for an event that was fun and interesting became our tradition. As a soloist, it gave me the opportunity to celebrate THE DAY according to my whim and circumstance. If you love to cook, whistle up those friends and neighbours who don’t. What about a potluck? What fun to enjoy the assembled specialties of your guests! Or perhaps you would enjoy the respite of solitude and sushi. Perhaps you would enjoy volunteering with a team at the soup kitchen. The choices are myriad and entirely up to you. The beauty is that your everyday gesture is a heartbeat away from the miraculous, at a moment that makes memories you will enjoy recalling and recounting. Small, ordinary acts have untold consequences at a moment in time that makes memories for yourself and others that can spill meaningfully through time and space, changing everything. I love the freedom and I’m so over preparing turkey and ham for turkeys and hams. I love them like crazy but I’m getting lazy. Happy holidays and Happy New Year! As Albert Einstein once opined: ‘When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change.’ Badda Bing!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year
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Boomers and Beyond – Elgin • December 2024 Page 15
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