Letter from the Editor As we turn the calendar to January, I’m reminded of something my late wife Staci always used to say: “Never complain about getting old. It’s a privilege denied to many.” Wise words and truer than she ever knew. So, while, as we welcome 2025, I might be feeling every one of my years, I’ve resolved to live this year healthier than the last. I said the same thing last January, of course, but my body had other plans. I managed to injure myself twice within the first month and spent months trying to recover, only to have my shoulder start giving me grief by summer. This year, I’m determined to help my body hold itself together with better exercise and a healthier diet. Here’s hoping my joints cooperate long enough for me to make it through the first quarter unscathed! On a brighter note, I recently enjoyed a family trip to Disney World. One of the highlights was visiting Epcot, where you can travel the world in an afternoon without leaving Florida. It reminded me of the upcoming fifth anniversary of the Global Flavours initiative here in St. Thomas and across Elgin County. This annual event invites you to stamp your culinary passport by sampling dishes from Europe, South America, Asia, Jamaica, and more. It’s a fantastic way to expand your palate while supporting local restaurants. Why not start the year by exploring the world — one bite at a time? Speaking of magical journeys, you won’t want to miss our article on the unforgettable trip local students from John Wise Public School and June Rose Callwood Public School took to the North Pole. This heartwarming adventure was the dream of a retiring teacher who wanted to create one last moment of magic for her students. Thanks to a private donor, dedicated volunteers, and some serious coordination, this once-in-a-lifetime experience became a reality. If that story doesn’t put a smile on your face, I’m not sure what will. The Board Members of Christmas Care would like to extend a HUGE THANK YOU to our volunteers, our corporate donors, our individual donors, Ardent Industries (Steelway Building Systems), the City of St. Thomas, Elgin Centre, DNO Towing, local Emergency Services, area schools, area places of worship, area service clubs, our individual and anonymous donors, ETC., ETC., ETC. A special shout out to all the local businesses that gave their time,talent or treasure to help with providing food and toys and delivering packages this year. Some of our funding has come from the Colchester and Joanne Brooks Community Funds, which operate within the Elgin-St Thomas Community Foundation, and we are most appreciative. May you all have a Prosperous and Happy 2025 from all of us at Christmas Care.
Geoff is enjoying Japan while at Epcot.
As we begin a new year, I want to wish all our readers health, wealth, and plenty of community spirit. Whether you’re tackling personal goals, discovering new cuisines, or being inspired by acts of kindness, here’s to a 2025 that’s filled with memorable moments and some good laughs along the way. After all, if we can’t laugh at ourselves — and our inevitable New Year’s resolutions — what’s the point?
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Page 2 Hometown St. Thomas • Jan-Feb 2025
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