Hometown St. Thomas March 2026 Issue 77
Letter from the Editor Once a year, I stand up in front of my networking group, the St. Thomas Executive Association, and give a presentation about who I am and what I do. On the surface, it’s a simple enough task. I talk about what’s new with Hometown St. Thomas, Port Stan- ley Villager, Boomers and Beyond, Real Living , and the various Villager publications. It’s part update, part reminder, and part, ‘For those of you who are new, hello: this is me’. But inevitably, the same question comes up. Sometimes politely. Sometimes with genuine concern. Occasionally, with a tone that suggests I might be clinging to a rotary phone and a fax machine. ‘Isn’t print media dead?’ The short answer is: not exactly. The longer answer is that while print media as a whole is certainly struggling, local print media still has a pulse and can be incredibly impactful in smaller communities. If I lived in Toronto, I could Google what’s happening and find endless event listings, blogs, and social media accounts. But when it comes to places like St. Thomas or Port Stanley, or neighbourhoods in London such as Wortley, Lambeth, Byron, etc., those resources aren’t always easy to find and are often subject to opinion. That’s where community magazines come in.
Every month, I’m reminded why I keep doing this: a reader sends an email; someone stops me at an event – the grocery store, or the farmers’ market. They tell me what the magazines mean to them. Not just because we list upcoming events or highlight new businesses, though those matter, but because we tell stories. Stories about their neighbours. Their organizations. Their history. Some are light and silly. Some are more serious. All of them matter. And this isn’t me patting myself on the back. Anyone who knows me knows I’m not big on self-promotion. If I didn’t have to put my photo on this page, I probably wouldn’t. What I am passionate about is local storytelling and, in a way, local history. Because once print media eventually says its final goodbye, those stories become much harder to find. I’ve often joked that I’m a big St. Thomas cheerleader. And it’s true. I’m here to promote the city, the people, and the good things happening around us. Is St. Thomas perfect? Of course not. But it’s an amazing place to live, and one we sometimes underestimate. When I moved here in 2006, many people couldn’t wait to leave. Now, people are choosing to come here, and that says something. Print media may be a facing significant transformation, but while I’m here and able to do it, I’ll keep telling local stories. And I’ll happily keep doing it for as long as you’re happy to keep reading them.
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FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos by Peri Hayes Francis Martin of FranKingstyle Tattoos recently launched his local gallery, FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos. A friend had formerly expressed that Francis would one day be painting for kings. “And I love Frankenstein,” Francis enthuses, which led to the name for his business venture. Throughout Francis’ career, he has explored an array of media. As a passionate curator, he envisions people experiencing the art in his gallery and learning about the human holding the brush. “The whole idea is an evolution of The Art Shop I had in Watford for 13 years; this was basically a place for me to create art, teach art and help artists showcase their work.” For Francis, art is about connection. Many of the featured artists are from Southern Ontario, including his eldest son. “We have an artsy stage for people to walk by the front window and see artists doing their thing. We welcome people in to see that artists are not just a product; you can get to know the person behind the art.” Exhibiting paintings, pottery, sculptures and more, Francis encourages, “What I’m looking for is art that has soul and quality. This is a misfit kind of gallery, showcasing various artists and creating space for their voices to be heard.”
moment of pause, as Francis offers, “We have benches for sitting and taking in the artwork.” Planning to host art social nights, Francis exclaims, “This helps us to grow. With AI, artists need to collaborate more than ever.” While these socials will be closed events, his art classes will be advertised online and in-studio following the grand opening this March. “Having space to create is super important for mental health. As for my teaching technique, I embrace the artist in them. Seeing people’s faces when they accomplish a new skill or finish a piece, this lights up my spirit.” Furthermore, Francis is developing a plan of action for supplying unhoused individuals with art materials – entailing a donation box to support this project. His ultimate goal is to nourish this art community, and contribute to local tourism: “I adapt to the needs of the people. I encourage people to visit FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos, and see what artists have to say.”
Located at 632 Talbot Street, FranKingstyle Art & Tattoos is open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 5:00 pm. View Francis’ work on frankingstyleartandtattoos.com, as well as refer to ‘Frankingstyle Art Gallery’ on Facebook and Instagram for gallery updates and class announcements. With inquiries about the gallery, Francis’ commission work or to book a tattoo appointment, connect via social media or by phone at 519-619-5464.
“Beautiful artists are part of this, and I find myself walking around the gallery in awe.” Included in their permanent collection is Francis’ girlfriend’s late sister, Darcie Beckley. Regarding works for sale, Francis shares that the gallery will rotate every several months. With that, he assures the public that there is zero pressure to purchase a piece upon your visit. Frankingstyle Art & Tattoos is intended to elicit a grounding
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Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 3
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CASO Station Hosts 2026 Bridal Show by Peri Hayes Love is in the air, as the CASO Station will soon celebrate their 2026 Bridal Show. Ashley Mason is the Events and Hospitality Manager at CASO Station: “I am overseeing the planning and execution of the upcoming Bridal Show to ensure a seamless and elevated experience for both exhibitors and attendees.” As Ashley delightedly details, “The Bridal Show at CASO Station will be a curated, immersive event designed to inspire couples as they plan their wedding day, while highlighting the venue’s historic charm and versatility. The event will feature a selection of local wedding professionals, including florists, photographers, décor specialists, caterers and other key vendors – all showcasing their services in thoughtfully designed displays throughout the station. Attendees can expect opportunities to meet vendors one-on-one, gather planning ideas, and experience CASO Station as a potential wedding venue.” CASO Station has been facilitating this inspiring event for several years, inviting engaged couples and wedding professionals to connect and collaborate. Ashley enthuses, “The Bridal Show has become a cherished annual event, reflecting CASO Station’s ongoing commitment to supporting memorable celebrations and serving as a premier setting for weddings and special events.” Through a labour of love, CASO Station is spotlighted as an exquisite and treasured gathering space for celebrating such a milestone. “What excites me most about this event is how the community is brought together in a meaningful and celebratory way. It’s especially rewarding to see small businesses build
relationships that often extend well beyond the event itself. Being part of an event that helps couples envision and plan such an important chapter of their lives, while also strengthening local partnerships and celebrating creativity, is incredibly fulfilling.” The Bridal Show offers a complimentary swag bag which includes The Wedding Ring magazine – along with, courtesy of Frisky Beaver, a glass of wine for guests to enjoy during the event. Moreover, attendees will have the opportunity to win exciting door prizes, ensuring that this captivating event is welcoming, informative and memorable. Located at 750 Talbot Street, CASO Station Bridal Show 2026 is this March 15th from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm. This is a free- admission event, open to the public. Those with inquiries are encouraged to phone 519-633-2535, or direct an email to Ashley at ashley@railworks.ca.
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Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 5
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St. Thomas Art Guild: Show & Sale by Peri Hayes
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The multi-faceted Marcia Pensa describes her ongoing involvement with the St. Thomas Art Guild: “I oversee the website, as well as email communications to members. When I first moved to Port Stanley, the Port Guild was at capacity. Someone mentioned the St. Thomas Guild, which met at the Public Art Centre and was accepting members, so I joined!” Their upcoming Show & Sale will return with another wide array of media. Artists are welcome to submit up to 12 works to be featured in this enchanting event. All works must be original, and never before exhibited at a St. Thomas Art Show within the previous three years. Marcia enthusiastically reveals, “We have some very interesting artists, including fabric artists, and several mixed media artists who deal in collage and in a variety of mediums for any one work. We also have some sculptors, and a glass mosaic artist. There are amazing photographers, coloured pencil artists, glass fusion, mineral stone pigment, teabag, wildlife, landscape, abstract, acrylic glazing and portrait, as well as works in traditional mediums such as watercolour, acrylic, and oils.”
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Once the display has been hung, the works are toured by a designated judge who diligently goes through the exhibited pieces. The judge, in their respective view, will assign ribbons to the pieces which stand out. Marcia highlights, “There are some ribbons for
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Judge’s Choice, and some for Honourable Mention. The judge is always an established member of the art community in Southwestern Ontario.” Laura Woermke, esteemed local artist and St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre’s Executive Director and Curator, is the judge this year. As Marcia cheerfully continues, “We also have an Art Draw feature, where someone could win their choice of an original artwork. There are usually four or five pieces that have been donated for this draw.” As Marcia passionately offers, “The Guild is an opportunity for artists of all kinds — professional and emerging — to encourage process, practice and experimentation. We provide opportunities to increase knowledge and skill among our members. An important mandate of our Guild is to increase public awareness of the arts in Elgin County through various media, public relations communication, and community involvement in the arts.” While discussing the longevity of this community event, Marcia voices, “The Guild draws on members from all over Southwestern Ontario – from anywhere someone is willing to drive for a meeting. There are always new people finding joy in being creative in the visual arts. It is a fact that many artists, upon retirement, find that they have the time and the motivation to pursue a passion outside of their work life. We have many artists from the London area, who do still work, ready to balance their lives with creativity.” Returning to the Holiday Inn Express and Suites, the St. Thomas Art Guild Show & Sale will be celebrated at 275 Highview Drive. “They have been most welcoming. We have appreciated the modern venue, the accessibility, the beautiful light in the room, and the amenities that the venue offers – such as the free parking.”
The St. Thomas Art Guild’s 2026 Art Show & Sale remains to be a free event for the public to attend and enjoy, scheduled on the following dates: Friday, March 20th from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm; Saturday, March 21st from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; Sunday, March 22nd from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. The visuals accompanying this article offer insight into several works which will be featured. Visit stthomasartguild.com for further information, and direct inquiries to Marcia via email at startguildwebsite@gmail.com.
Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 7
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Still Standing Puts St. Thomas in the Spotlight for Season Finale St. Thomas will be taking centre stage on CBC Television this spring as Still Standing wraps up its 11th season with an episode filmed right here in the Railway City. The season finale airs March 17 at 8:30 pm, showcasing the community through the familiar blend of comedy, history, and heart that has made the series a national favourite. Hosted by comedian Jonny Harris, Still Standing travels across Canada, highlighting small towns through stand-up performances inspired by local stories. While the show has traditionally focused on smaller communities, St. Thomas stood out as a notable exception when filming took place on September 24, 2025. “I didn’t know a great deal about St. Thomas until we came there for the episode this year,” says Harris. “But I loved it. It’s got a strong car culture, and I’m a bit of a car nerd, so I enjoyed that.” That car culture, along with St. Thomas’s industrial roots, played a key role in the decision to bring the show to the city. Jonny explained that broader economic conversations helped shape the episode’s focus. “With the tariff era and how it impacted industry, particularly the auto industry, it just seemed like it would make sense to feature an auto-industry-loss story,” he says. “The closure of the Ford plant was huge for the town.” At the same time, the episode also reflects optimism for the future. Jonny noted that the anticipated Volkswagen battery plant, along with related investments, signals a new chapter for the area.
Photos courtesy of CBC
“From what people have told me, it would be more jobs than even the Ford plant provided,” he says, calling the development ‘massive’ and a potential economic boom for the region. St. Thomas also made Still Standing history by hosting the largest live audience ever for the show’s stand-up taping, outside of a previous exception in Fort McMurray. While the unexpectedly large turnout caused some logistical challenges, Jonny said it was ultimately a great problem to have.
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“Sometimes a small room that’s packed has better energy than a large room,” he explains. “But St. Thomas was kind of the best of both worlds, a big space with so many people that it was full. I was thrilled we had such a big presence.” Beyond the performance, the production team explored several local attractions, including the Railway Museum, Elevated Park, and St. Thomas Dragway. Jonny said one of the biggest surprises for him was learning just how deeply the community honours one of its most famous historical figures.
the country in places nobody ever spends time in, and meet people who are proud of where they’re from.” For those who didn’t attend the live taping, Jonny has an easy pitch. “After they see the show, people always say, ‘I learned something about my own hometown. I think we did a pretty good job of getting a cross-section of St. Thomas.”
“When we did our research, I wrote a couple of jokes about Jumbo,” he admits. “But when I got to St. Thomas, I realized how much respect there is for Jumbo and how the town really honours his legacy – the murals, the statue, even Jumbo on T-shirts. I knew I had to adjust.” Although the demanding filming schedule didn’t allow much downtime, Jonny says he thoroughly enjoyed his time in the city and would happily return. “I had a blast. I’d love to come back and just be a car dude for a couple of days.” Now more than a decade into hosting Still Standing , Jonny says the appeal of the show hasn’t faded. Growing up in a small town himself, the concept resonated immediately. “I fell in love with the idea right away,” he says. “You get to see
On March 17, viewers across Canada will get the chance to see St. Thomas through that lens, standing tall, telling its story, and closing out Still Standing’s 11th season on a high note.
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Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 9
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City Councillor, Joan Rymal by Peri Hayes Effective December of 2025, Joan Rymal has been welcomed with open arms upon her return to St. Thomas City Council. In 2009, Joan followed her two children who first moved to the local and surrounding area. She graduated from Victoria School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse, working in ER and later becoming the Director of Care at Dearness Home Service based in London. For the latter, she highlights collaborating with other municipalities – an experience which effectively prepared her for Council: “I am quite fortunate.” Joan declares that she has taken interest in municipal politics for a number of years. With St. Thomas City Council being non-partisan, Joan is delighted to be part of a team that strives for the good of the community. “I have a passion for the homeless and housing resources – anything to keep this at the forefront. We have terrific support services. Indwell has started at Balaclava, and we have a new apartment on Highview Ave.” “This is a very welcoming community,” Joan exclaims, “And Council is doing such a good job.” She shares that one of her passions is to advocate for long-term care facilities. “This will increase housing availability, as well as offer more employment opportunities.” Previously, Joan spent time on the Municipal Accessibility Advisory Committee, the Downtown Development Board and more. Presently, Joan sits on the following committees: St. Thomas Area Secondary Water Supply System - Board of Management; Valleyview Home - Board of Management; Community & Aquatic Centre Steering Committee; Municipal Heritage Committee; Southwestern Public Health (Alternate).
CONTACT US 519.633.2535 CASO Bridal Show March 15th, 2026 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Free admission Complimentary glass of wine Prizes to be won info@casostation.ca casostation.ca
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Joan champions the city’s abundant accomplishments, as she voices, “I am proud of our trails, parks and beautiful outdoor spaces. For people to want to work and live here, this is the goal. You can find everything that you need in St. Thomas.” When Joan is not immersed in her political career, she is volunteering locally, travelling, playing piano — a beloved hobby since childhood — enjoying Pokémon GO and spending time with her four grandchildren.
One of Joan’s ultimate goals on Council is to pro- vide a seamless transition as she focuses on out- standing projects, while continuing to nourish the City of St. Thomas. Born in a small Port Lambton village of 600 to 800 resi- dents, Joan is grateful to feel at home in this city. “This is a compassionate, caring community. It is important that we take care of each other and remain responsive to the needs of the people, listen- ing to others’ ideas while looking at the big picture.” With evident enthusiasm,
Joan thoughtfully expresses, “It is an honour to be on Council. I am certainly appreciative of being asked to come back on, and I do not take this lightly.” To connect with Joan, kindly utilize her jrymal@stthomas.ca email address.
Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 11
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Choral Connection’s April Concert by Peri Hayes Choral Connection is a thriving non-profit choir in St. Thomas and the surrounding area. Hugh Van Pelt, Artistic Director of Choral Connection, enthuses, “My wife, Lucy Van Pelt, and I formed the choir in 2003, and have been putting on concerts in the community ever since.” Hugh fervently describes what has continued their enjoyment working with this professional group of musicians: “There’s an incredible collaboration between the instrumentalists, choristers, volunteers, and even audience members for each concert we put on. Everyone has such an amazing perspective and excitement they bring to each musical work that we undertake – it’s a joy and an honour that one never grows tired of!” Choral Connection is celebrating one of their two annual concerts this April, with their previous having taken place in December of 2025 and entailing Handel’s Messiah . Meanwhile, Hugh passionately elaborates on this upcoming event: “We will feature Mozart’s iconic, infamous Requiem mass. This piece represents Mozart’s musical writing at its most profound. It’s instantly recognizable — often excerpted for TV and film — and it comes with a unique mythology as a piece that was actually left unfinished at the composer’s time of death. It features all the aspects you look for in a musical journey – elegance and beauty, but also drama, intrigue and emotional density.” While their orchestra members and soloists are financially compensated, Choral Connection choristers are highlighted for generously volunteering their time. Furthermore, professional orchestra players are employed by sponsors in the community, about which Hugh expresses with gratitude, “The reason we
are able to produce performances at a professional level is due to the incredible support of our sponsors within the community and throughout Southwestern Ontario; we could not accomplish the things we do without this support.” With the rehearsal process having excitingly begun last month, Hugh shares that this choir hovers around 50 singers per concert. He warmly invites, “Join us Friday, April 3rd at 7:30 pm at Knox Presbyterian Church in St. Thomas!” Tickets are available in advance through the choralconnection.ca website, along with cash sales at the door. As Choral Connection eagerly prepares for their concert on the horizon, Hugh concludes, “If you are interested in supporting our organization, please email choralconnection1@gmail.com.” Photo courtesy of Johnny Gonzalez.
SPRINGWATER MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL TASTE THE SWEETNESS OF SPRING
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Event Highlights
10:00 AM - 03:00 PM MARCH 14-17, 19-22 & 28
WAGON RIDES
Experience tractor-drawn wagon rides through the scenic Springwater Forest
PANCAKE HOUSE The Pancake House runs from 10 AM to 2 PM, hosted by local community groups—cash only! NATURAL RESOURCES DAY Vendors and more!
Watch live demonstrations of maple syrup production, maple syrup products for purchase ! MAPLE SYRUP PRODUCTION DEMOS
EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY
Meet emergency responders from the OPP and Malahide Fire Department !
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Page 12 Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026
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March Break Activities: Connective, Creative and Community Building by Peri Hayes Crock a Doodle Located at 364 Talbot Street, Crock A Doodle will be offering welcoming workshops with a unique theme each day. These classes are described as screen-free, creative fun in an inspiring environment and are designed for ages 5 to 12. Operating Monday to Friday from 10:30 am until 12:30 pm, a delicious pizza lunch is also included. The following list highlights their concepts for the week: Monday – Comic Canine; Tuesday – Lucky Charms; Wednesday – Creeper Plates; Thursday – Adopt a Pet; Friday – Pizza Party. Registration is required in advance, which costs $35.00 per child. Elgin County Museum Located at 460 Sunset Drive, visit the Elgin County Museum where curiosity is nourished and local history is shared. The Jumbo Mania exhibition runs until March 20th; an immersive opportunity for learning about the legacy of Jumbo, a renowned circus elephant whose life ended on his journey travelling through St. Thomas. The Museum is operating during March Break from March 16th to the 21st, 10:00 am until 4:00 pm -- with programming available. Springwater Maple Syrup Festival Springwater Maple Syrup Festival is ongoing March 14th to 17th, 19th to 22nd and March 28th from 10:00 am until 3:00 pm. The admission prices upon entry range from $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for children and guests under two years of age are free of charge. Activities include their maple syrup demonstrations, Birds of Prey Show, colour contest, Natural Resources Day, Emergency Services Day and wagon rides through their
Monday March 16 - Friday March 20 MARCH BREAK at St. Thomas Public Library! Join us for programs, events, and activities! The local Library invites children and caregivers to create and play together at no cost. Drop-in activities are offered week- long with their LEGO challenge, bowling and mini-golf. March 17th and 21st at 10:30 am will be Storytime for ages 1 to 4, while March 20th at 10:30 am is their Baby Storytime. On March 16th at 2:00 pm, participants aged 10 to 13 are encouraged to add their customized spin on an existing work of art with Hack That Painting; registration is accepted in person, online or by phoning 519-631-6050. March 18th at 11:00 am is Middle Makers for ages 8 to 12, entailing fascinating shrinky-dink charms to bring home. March 19th at 2:00 pm for ages 4 to 8 is their story followed by an air-dry clay and jewels project. March 20th at 2:00 pm for all ages is Magic and Mysteries with The Amazing Corbin, a charming performance filled with surprise and whimsy. Carolinian Old Growth Forest. While honouring this cherished Canadian tradition, Springwater Maple Syrup Festival brings the community together and celebrates spring on the horizon with such sweet flavours. Meanwhile, snowshoe rentals are available all day for $12.00 per person. Their weekend rate from Friday to Monday is $25.00 per person, available at the Catfish Creek Conservation Authority Admin Office -- 8079 Springwater Road. St. Thomas-Elgin Public Art Centre Operating from March 16th until the 20th, the St. Thomas- Elgin Public Art Centre offers their captivating March Break Workshops. Facilitated in their gorgeous studio, children will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the arts, various crafts and engaging games in an empowering space alongside creative peers. These 9:00 am until 3:30 pm workshops cost $50.00 per day, or $200.00 for the week. STEPAC is located at 301 Talbot Street. St. Thomas Public Library
Daily Lego Challenges
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Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 13
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226-781-8519 info@primebrokerage.ca Ross highlights three local volunteer programs in particular: The Emergency Response Unit (ERU), Therapy Dog Program, and Medical First Responders. The ERU offers disaster relief efforts locally, as well as on a provincial and national scale. Meanwhile, dogs and handlers visit care homes, community events, hospitals, libraries and schools to be of comfort to those in times of stress. “Everybody loves the dogs,” Ross beams. Regarding Medical First Responders, these are volunteers providing First Aid and safety assistance during public events; such as Canada Day at 1Password Park, for example. Presently, there are 25 local Medical First Responders volunteering their time to ensure the safety of public community events. NOW SELLING CONDOS EXCLUSIVE LAUNCH INCENTIVES FOR EARLY BUYERS – ACT FAST! • 3 models to choose from – Bow, Port & Stern • 1250–1325 sq. ft. of living space on the main floor • Vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace, single or double garage • Plus many more standard features! Various training is also available, including CPR, First Aid, Mental Health and WHMIS. Ross Murray is the St. Thomas- Elgin Medical First Responder Unit Chief. He is an instructor for Basic Life Saving and Standard First Aid; most recently certified in Pet First Aid. Ross declares with gratitude, “A lot of my folks work in emergency services, then volunteer their time here to continue helping people – I find that incredible.” St. John Ambulance St. Thomas-Elgin by Peri Hayes The initial Canadian branch of St. John Ambulance debuted in 1883. Having grown to be a national organization, St. John Ambulance St. Thomas-Elgin was established in 1917. This is a non-profit organization, with volunteers offering assistance during human and natural disasters. As Ross details, “Some of the greatest feedback we receive is that the staff at these public events feel supported knowing that
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County. I have im-mense pride knowing that I am volunteering for an or- ganization that supports Ca-nadians in need.” With events booked until Oc- tober, securing the St. John Ambulance team for an up- coming community event in advance is encouraged. “The more volunteers we have, the more community events we can go out and support,” Ross urges. On the horizon is the Polar Bear Dip in Port Stanley this March 7th, for which St. John Ambulance will be in attendance. Ross continues, “Our work we do in this community makes a big difference. The more members we get, the more events we can cover. You don’t have to be from
involved, visit the sja.ca website and utilize the drop-down menu to complete an application. The Community Service Coordinator based in London will then review and begin the process of onboarding with a reference check, police check and so forth. Moreover, training nights in St. Thomas occur every two weeks, located at the 30 Burwell building. These sessions will equip volunteers for their Medical First Responder certification, as well as maintain sharp skill sets. “If you can’t volunteer but would love to donate, kindly contact ‘St. John Ambulance St. Thomas Elgin Branch’ on Facebook. All contributions are appreciated.” Ross concludes by an- nouncing the Bandages and Bellies Food Drive, which St. John Ambulance St. Thomas-Elgin is hosting at the St. Thomas Real Canadian Super Store on March 28th from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm. All donations support the St. Thomas Food Bank, with their goal to fill their ambulance with non-perishable food items. Pre-filled food bags will be available for purchase, and monetary contributions are graciously accepted. Explore their webpage for further information, and direct inquiries about St. John Ambulance St. Thomas-Elgin to their London office at 519-432-1352.
health science or emergency services, as we’ll give you all the training that you need to be comfortable to go out and be a Medical First Responder at these local events.” To become
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Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 15
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Elgin Women’s Leadership Conference, Igniting a Fire in Your Leadership by Peri Hayes Helen Cole enthusiastically discusses the upcoming Elgin Women’s Leadership Conference. Launching The Jean Collective in 2020 as a tribute to her local and dear late friend, she began hosting Women’s Leadership Conferences across Elgin County in 2023. The first occurred in Middlesex, as Helen elaborates, “Kathryn Desrosiers attended and said, ‘I want this in my community,’ so away we went. It was especially meaningful for me because of my rich history in Elgin St. Thomas.” The Elgin Women’s Leadership Conference entails sharing experiences, fostering connections, expanding professional networks, learning from one another, and celebrating womanhood. Kate Burns Gallagher, Executive Director of Western Ontario Wardens Caucus, will be the 2026 Emcee. Kate beams about her involvement: “I am so honoured to be the Emcee of this event, and to help bring together this powerhouse panel. I love the vibe of the day, with such positivity and support filling the venue.” This year, the panel will entail the following presenters: Tara McCaulley, with the Elgin Business Resource Centre and former City Councillor; Trish Corneil, sharing her moving story along with her Ministry of the Attorney General (Office of the Children’s Lawyer) work experience; Aurora Alcocer, owner of Taco House Co. and skillful dancer; Lindsay Rice, YWCA of St Thomas-
Elgin Executive Director and reflecting on the process of bringing Project Tiny Hope to fruition. As Kate exclaims, “The work that each of these passionate and multi-faceted women have accomplished is remarkable.” The keynote speakers include Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs, Government of Ontario and Erin Donahue, Director of Ontario Public Service Learning and Development, Treasury Board Secretariat. “These are incredibly powerful individuals,” Kate voices.
Page 16 Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026
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THE TURKEY SHOPPE Order your Fresh Turkey for Easter Asked what continues motivating Helen to bring the Women’s Leadership Conference to communities across Elgin, Lambton and Middlesex County, she expresses, “Seeing women I’ve grown to love and admire; knowing that we are making a difference in so many ways; meeting new community supporters and being inspired by some pretty terrific women!” The Elgin Women’s Leadership Conference is scheduled at the St. Thomas Seniors’ Recreation Centre this March 28th from 9:30 am until 2:30 pm, with doors opening at 9:00 am. Helen announces, “Minister Thompson is first on the agenda!” Tickets are available through the Elgin Women’s Leadership Conference eventbrite webpage, directing five dollars from each toward YWCA of St. Thomas-Elgin. Those with inquiries As Kate continues, “This event is about women empowering women. The biggest power is in asking questions, and how you build your community is in how you build your support. We like to encourage participants to sit with folks that they don’t know, creating opportunities to connect.” With St. Thomas being Kate’s home, she aims to share the benefit of living in this community and nourishing the growing city: “We have such a great sense of community. This conference strives to inspire various leaders, both in and outside of the home – you do not have to be a boss to be a leader. This confidence can be cultivated in your daily life.” Over these several years, Helen has received such rewarding feedback. One instance pertains to a woman who had felt compelled to attend one of these conferences, during which she reunited with prior connections. Through authentic networking, this woman learned of a work opportunity that she seized and has brought her such fulfillment.
about The Jean Collective or the Elgin Women’s Leadership Conference are invited to connect with Helen via email at helen@thejeancollective.ca. Chantell Crabtree is credited for the 2025 photos accompanying this article.
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Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026 • Page 17
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Taco House Co. Corporation by Peri Hayes
Owner, Aurora Alcocer, shares that Taco House Co. is entering an exhilarating phase of growth and expansion. The restaurant has relocated its tortilleria equipment and operations to a new space next door at 542 Talbot Street. This debuting sister business, Maize Boreal Corporation, is dedicated to producing genuine corn products. Aurora details, “This strategic move allows Taco House Co. to reimagine its restaurant space, offering the community a vibrant new dine-in experience paired with a refreshed, flavourful menu.” With these changes, Aurora is not only expanding her business footprint, she is creating a lively gathering spot for locals to enjoy their authentic and incredible cuisine. Debuting in 2024, Taco House Co. offers high-quality, gluten- free tortillas in retail and wholesale. Their tortilla is made directly from Blenheim-sourced corn, which is non-GMO, high in fibre and gluten-free. “From field to table,” Aurora enthuses. She proceeds to highlight that their menu entails zero additives to the meat, nor conservatives containing wheat or soy: “This is well-thought-out food, made with care. The products are fun, all within the gluten-free family.” Their Barbacoa Tacos have been most popular. The Taco House Co. menu, however, is not exclusive to tacos; tamales, nachos, dessert and beverages are also available. Raised in Monterrey, Mexico, Aurora is passionate about celebrating her culture: “This is local and authentic Mexican cuisine. We are inviting people in for an experience.” Their delicious Birria (beef tacos) were recently released in February. Aurora outlines their inspiration for this inclusion, as
Warmer Days, Cooler Nights – The Perfect Time for a Spa! Birria was no longer being served in St. Thomas and therefore led to Taco House Co. filling a need in the community. In addition, two more flavours are being introduced throughout the spring season, including carnitas (pork tacos) and shrimp tacos. The flavours of these dishes can also be enhanced by their in-house hot salsas. Moreover, Tosta-Rica (featured
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Page 18 Hometown St. Thomas • March 2026
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above) is one of their latest additions; a golden, crispy tostada layered with crisp lettuce, feta cheese, fresh guacamole, house- made salsa, sour cream, a zesty mix of pickled vegetables and jalapeños, along with your choice of protein.
the corner as their patio. As Aurora beams, “More space means more freedom to reorganize and renovate to accommodate for more dining.” This will become a part of their growing dining area, which is in the works to launch this May long weekend
in celebration of Taco House Co.’s second an- niversary. Aurora also details her interest in collaborating with local brewers, presenting live music and more. “With more space to dine in, we are providing further opportunity for people to explore food, enjoy an outdoor experience, and perhaps discover something new.” Furthermore, their changing space lends itself to preparing Build Your Own packages, including beans, rice and more. Amidst these exciting developments coming to fruition, Aurora feels grateful to have embarked on this adventure alongside her husband and business partner, Daniel Alcocer. As she reveals, “My next goal is to create opportunities for our community, focusing more on catering and our patio parties.” Aurora assures that their catering can be customized to suit each client, a service which they appreciate booking two weeks in advance.
Warmest thoughts and best wishes
Taco House Co. operates Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am until 7:00 pm, with their summer hours being announced this spring. As Aurora concludes, “I strive to create an experience for people to enjoy good food. To see people enjoy what we make, I am absolutely over the moon.” With inquiries and orders, phone Taco House Co. at 519-207-1648.
Aurora’s ultimate ambition is to be immersed in the community, connecting with customers and local businesses. Once the weather warms, she is thrilled to be utilizing the parkette around
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