December 31, 2015

Happy New Year from

December 31, 2015 Volume 11 No. 53

519-633-1640 • www.theweeklynews.ca

New Year’s resolutions and 2016 predictions

Please don’t drink & drive!

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

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With 2015 coming to a close, all eyes are turning towards 2016 and what lies ahead for St. Thomas and Elgin County.

Whether they have political connections, businesses designs or community focus, there are people throughout the community excited for what the future holds.

Sean Dyke, general manager at St. Thomas Economic Development Corp., is one such person.

Dyke said he predicts local companies will continue to grow in 2016 and give the community even more reason to share the popular #StThomasProud hashtag on social media.

Bob Hammersley, president and CEO St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce, might even be more upbeat.

“I’m a big believer in the health, happiness and prosperity angle, with the emphasis on prosperity,” Hammersley said. “Job creation, advanced manufacturing, are some of the things we are looking at as ideal opportunities. I hope they all come together, or start to.

That would be the bigger wish.”

Hammersley predicts big things in technical training, advanced manufacturing, and what he terms value-added agri-business.

These could be some of the sectors ElginMiddlesex-London MPP Jeff Yurek looks towards when saying he plans to work “even harder” to bring more investment, and therefore jobs, to the area.

Elgin-Middlesex-London MP Karen Vecchio may only have been in her new role for a few months, but she said greater community engagement remains a key resolution for her in 2016.

See LOCAL, Page 2

SEAN MEYER PHOTO

STAY SAFE, GET AN ALARM: The St. Thomas Fire Department is conducting home safety audits to help homeowners ensure their property is safe. A fire crew will stop by individual homes and examine their interior and check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. On Dec. 23, Brian Leverton (right), fire prevention officer with the St. Thomas Fire Department, helped accept a $750 donation from the St. Thomas Elgin Insurance Brokers Assocation that will be used to support the department’s smoke/CO alarm programs. Matt Sharpe, along with Linda Evely (not pictured) made the donation to the department. For more informaiton or to set up an appointment for a fire safety inspection, call 519-631-0210.

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SEAN MEYER The Weekly News

St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

Local leaders see positives t

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

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Continued from front

“In my role as MP, I have sat down with municipal groups . . . with nine of the municipalities in Elgin-Middlesex-London, making sure we are working towards common goals,” Vecchio said. “I think in 2016 you will see more unity, a lot of our people working closer together.”

Also new in his role is recently acclaimed Elgin County Warden Bernie Wiehle.

Calling himself “an eternal optimist,” Wiehle said he has no time for the “doomsayers” in the community, particularly as he sees strong growth in economic development throughout the county.

Kevin Jackson, general manager of the Elgin Business Resource Centre, said he predicts positive growth in two areas. There are indications, he said, the number of new business start-ups will continue We provide families with respectful and affordable funeral, memorial and cremation services. Free, no-obligation preplanning and prepayment consultation is available.

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to increase, but there will also be growth in existing small, medium and large businesses.

Jackson said he feels “a sense of positivity about the community as a whole,” which he predicts will be spurred by the entrepreneurial spirit he sees as being alive and well in the Railway City.

Dawn Miskelly, manager of the Elgin County Railway Museum, is hoping the community’s commitment to promotion of railway heritage as a tourism sector will continue to grow and prosper.

After all, the more visitors to St. Thomas, the greater economic impact the museum has.

Melissa Schneider, campaign and communications co-ordinator with United Way Elgin-St. Thomas, said the organization’s resolution is to keep funding programs run by local agencies in the community.

The 17 agencies United Way funds are important to the long-term health and viability of Elgin County, Schneider said, adding the organization is determined to keep the dollars that are being raised local.

While many are focused on growing the numbers connected to their respective sectors, Karen McDade is hopeful hers will start going down.

Manager of The Caring Cupboard Food Bank, McDade said the “phenomenal” level of support the community has shown continues to thrill her.

But the hope remains that one day, it won’t be needed at all.

“We have so many resources for people; I think we are doing well. There are signs things are improving,” McDade said. “I wish the best for everybody, but the main thing is that nobody goes without in our community.”

May this new year bring you love, warmth, wealth and new opportunities, So that you always keep smiling.

Happy New Year! from all the staff at Ron’s Auto Service

225 Edward Street, St. Thomas 519-633-6130

T he Home Of Affordable Quality

GREG MINNEMA PHOTO

TOY STORY: The Aylmer Optimists delivered toys collected in their annual drive to families of needy children in the Aylmer, Port Burwell and Straffordville areas on Dec. 23. The Aylmer Optimists have been conducting their annual toy drive for over 40 years. Among those taking part were (from left) Colin Thompson, Carys Rose, Bob Cresswell and Jim Malloy.

ing year and clarity to phosphorous targets is required. OFA continues to meet with policy makers to have the Ontario farm voices heard and acknowledged.

Queen’s Park has been a prominent venue for OFA this past year. From lobby efforts, MPP meetings, standing committee appearances, and opportunities to listen to the debate and proceedings of the legislative assembly, the OFA wants to thank the efforts of all MPP’s and their staff for the hard work and openness to listen to OFA’s positions.

This year saw a change in federal government. OFA works closely with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture to ensure our federal priorities of improved agricultural research, risk management and infrastructure funding are represented. With the mandate letters available from the new federal government, a vision is offered on the direction of this majority government. Agriculture can and will play a prominent role in Canada’s future with needed investments of shared policy direction and program funds.

We’ll continue our focus on government relations in 2016 with events like OFA Field Day that brings MPPs to the farm, and Queen’s Park events where we meet MPPs regularly in their offices. As we enter our 80th anniversary of championing the needs of Ontario farmers, OFA is proud to continue to represent the interests of Ontario agriculture.

By Don McCabe, president Ontario Federation of Agriculture

IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING

Curbside Christmas Tree Collection Natural Christmas trees will be collected curbside on January 5-8, 2016 and January 12-15, 2016. Undecorated trees will be collected on your waste collection day during this period, please ensure your tree is to the curb by 7am on your day. Please refer to your 2016 Recycling, Organics and Waste Collection calendar for more details.

For more information regarding waste management please contact the City of St. Thomas Environmental Services Department at 519-631-1680 ext. 4258 or visit us online at www.stthomas.ca

Central Elgin

CE BUZZ Christmas and New Year Holiday – Municipal Office Closed

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

What a year it’s been for Ontario agriculture. Weather, market prices, new regulations and new governments have presented challenges for Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) members.

Thanks to the work of our board of directors, staff, county federations, and members, the interests of Ontario farmers have been represented and presented to local municipalities, Queen’s Park, Ottawa, and the global farming and science community. Some issues have been addressed quickly, while others are ongoing and will take time to see results.

One of the most positive outcomes this year is the inclusion of farming and farmland preservation in the recent 10-year review of four Ontario provincial land use plans. The advisory board recommendations clearly state the importance of protecting agricultural land and acknowledge farming’s contribution in our province. Land use has always been a top priority for OFA, as directed by our members and their feedback.

The Ontario government led an aggressive public policy schedule this year. Key issues included pollinator health, Ontario Retirement Pension Plan, Supporting Ontario’s Trails Act, Invasive Species Act, changes to crop insurance, phosphorous targets, and cap and trade policies to name a few. OFA was at the table, discussing the impacts these policy changes will have on Ontario farm businesses.

Continued progress in the design of a cap and trade program will evolve over the com-

The Corporation of the Municipality of

The Central Elgin Municipal Office will be closing at 12:00 noon on Thursday, December 24th, 2014 for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The office will reopen at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, January 4th, 2015. Throughout the holidays, urgent matters can be reported to the Municipality through the Municipality’s main phone number, 519-631-4860.

This number is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Holiday Garbage and Blue Box Collection There will be no garbage and blue box recyclables collection on Christmas Day or New Years Day. The following are the changes to the collection schedule.

If your waste is normally picked up on: • Friday, December 25th, it will be collected on Thursday, December 24th • Friday, January 1st, it will be collected on Saturday January 2nd No other pick up days will be affected. Please visit www.centralelgin.org for 2015 and 2016 waste collection calendars.

Christmas Tree Drop-off Depot From January 4th to 15th, 2016, you may dispose of your Christmas tree at the Municipality’s White’s Station Operations Centre, 42343 Fruit Ridge Line (1 km west of Sunset Road), or at the Belmont Arena, 14020 Belmont Road. The Municipality will be chipping the trees for mulch. Please remove all tinsel and garland from the trees. www.centralelgin.org

St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

OFA looks back at 2015

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St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

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Looking back on the year that was in 2015

The St. Thomas/Elgin Weekly News is of 2015. Throughout St. Thomas and Eltaking a look back at the big news events gin County, there were a myriad of stories running the gambit from important local announcements to individuals accomplishing remarkable feats. The important stories of the year — both positive and negative — include the following: January • St. Thomas Mayor Heather Jackson announced she planned to make space in the 2015 draft capital budget for the construction of new sidewalks. The change would require finding more cash or putting off other infrastructure projects within the $24.7 million capital budget.

• A London woman and a man of no fixed address were charged following a shooting on the Oneida Nation of the Thames First Nation on the morning of Jan. 3. Charges Starting included assault, assault with a Professional installation at $99 weapon, aggravated assault and warrantied for as long as you own your car. possession or a prohibited or restricted firearm.

• Mayor Heather Jackson received violent threats over city snow removal. She revealed during a city council meeting residents 519-633-5404 www.centuryservice.ca had sent her email, Facebook and Auto Electronics & Installation text messages threatening her and 930 Talbot St., St.Thomas service@centuryservice.ca her family. The mayor said she was

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aghast at the disproportionate response in connection with so “trivial” a thing.

• Councillors from Aylmer and Malahide planned to start work on a new plan for the shared East Elgin Community Complex.

Aylmer Mayor Greg Currie expressed concerns around spending between $500,000 and $650,000 a year on the complex.

• Southwold Mayor Grant Jones said the

township faced years of tax hikes to make up for the loss of the Ford plant. Southwold stood to lose $108,000, the county more than $300,000.

• More than 50 people packed Railway City Brewing Co. for the launch of their special brew, The Magnificent Janus. At 10.2 percent alcohol, there was no argument it was a real winter warmer.

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Business Enterprise Centre and others in moving into a converted bowling alley at 10 Mondamin St. March • The number of Railway City residents on the so-called Sunshine List — which marks public sector employees making over $100,000 per year — jumped by about a third to 96 in 2014 from 62 the year before. That list now includes 22 employees of the St. Thomas Police Service, up from 16 in 2013, 48 employees of the St. Thomas Fire Department, up from 32, and 15 city administration employees, up from 14 in 2013.

• Fireworks rang out in the Railway City for the second time in three days as Coun.

Jeff Kohler and Mayor Heather Jackson sparred again over the fate of the St. Thomas Police Service headquarters.

• The smash phenomenon video game Minecraft was available at the St. Thomas Public Library. Children and youth could use their library card to use any computer in the Dorothy Palmer Youth Library to play the popular builder game.

• An exhibit at the Aylmer-Malahide Museum marked the 50th anniversary of the massive fire that caused millions in damage and left families homeless on Feb. 26, 1965. The exhibit ran until May 22.

• United Way of St. Thomas Elgin announced it had raised $437,000 with its 2014 campaign, $170,000 short of their “energetic” goal and about $130,000 less than was raised the year before.

• Pets/Friends for Life cut the ribbon on March 9, officially marking the reopening of the facility, which was closed for six months as it tried to deal with a ringworm infestation.

• More than 300 people packed a hall in Vienna on March 16 for an information session on the Elgin Military Museum’s HMCS Ojibwa and Bayham’s relationship with it. Chief concern was unless the museum came up with $6 million in four days time, it would default on its loan from the Royal Bank of Canada. That left the township on the hook for the floundering tourist attraction.

• Community Living Elgin employees, members of OPSEU Local 151, stalled traffic on Talbot Street, in St. Thomas, for an hour on March 11 to draw attention to layoffs and service cuts in the wake of a budget shortfall.

• A shakeup in Southwold Township was announced on March 12 as Mayor Grant Jones announced Donna Clermont — who had been CAO, clerk and deputy treasurer — was no longer employed by the municipality.

• John and Jean MacArthur were two of more than 250 Elgin County residents who received Ontario Volunteer Service Awards at a ceremony in Aylmer. The two had 134 years of volunteer service between them.

• A St. Thomas man faced charges after knocking over a syrup cart. According to Elgin OPP, a 77-year-old man was ­transported to hospital after his John Deere tractor and the homemade trailer packed with maple syrup he was towing, was rear-ended on Quaker Road in Central Elgin.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

COMMUNITY CONNECTION: Elgin-St. Thomas United Way has seen several local businesses make contributions to this year’s fundraising campaign in recent days. (Top) On Dec. 23, Gorman-Rupp of Canada Ltd. made a $7,000 donation to the campaign. The funds were raised through employee contributions, special events and a corporate donation. (Middle) GKN Sinter Metals Inc. raised $22,101.25 through a combination of employee contributions, special events and corporate donation. (Above) RBC Branch Manager Cristine Fekete and her staff from both RBC branches in St. Thomas gathered to present United Way with a donation of $4,200 for the annual campaign. The donations will be used to support the 17 local agencies funded by the United Way.

St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

• Sporting legends, including former WWE superstar Mick Foley and Montreal Expos legend Tim Raines, took centre stage at the 37th St. Thomas Sports Spectacular on Jan. 22. The annual event brings celebrities to the Railway City to benefit Special Olympics and Community Living Elgin.

• The St. Thomas Police Association handed out $1,000 to local charities, including $500 each to The Grace Cafe street mission and Inn Out of the Cold.

• A 49-year-old Bayham man died in violent wreck on Highway 401 on Jan. 22.

According to police a westbound transport truck entered the centre median and struck a support pillar for the Furnival Road overpass.

February • A St. Thomas man believed to have faked his own death to avoid a fraud trial in London in 2012 resurfaced in Aylmer.

Police said Roy Anthony Nevill walked away from a collision he caused Jan. 23 in Aylmer. A man who claimed to be his son called Nevill’s lawyer in October 2012 to say he had died of a heart attack. The Crown didn’t believe it and issued an arrest warrant — Nevill had been on the run ever since.

• A St. Thomas police officer suspended in October 2014 was charged with fraud.

Const. Aaron Fraser, 38, was charged with fraud under $5,000 related to allegations of fraudulent claims for health insurance claims.

• Ontario Nurses’ Association (ONA) members and Southwest Community Care Access Centre employees held a picket outside the outpatient entrance to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital on Feb. 2.

The picket stemmed from an ONA strike that affected nine CCAC’s across the province.

• The Integrity Commissioner for St. Thomas city council was called into action following a complaint earlier in the month. The complaint centered around discussions in a closed-door meeting.

However, John Maddox, in a letter to council on Feb. 9, said he found no evidence to warrant such a charge.

• County council approved a 2.5 percent tax increase on Feb. 10, which combined with the projected average increase in assessment, would amount to homeowners paying 5.4 percent more in 2015.

• Organizers at 94.1 myFM wanted 94 couples to renew their vows at Pinafore Park on Valentine’s Day. Estimates placed the crowd at over 100 people at the ceremony, which was presided over by Destination Church pastor Beth Fellinger. myFM confirmed 38 couples actually took part in the service.

• A truck driver from North York was killed after being struck by a vehicle on Highway 401 in West Elgin. The driver was reported to be walking along the side of the highway on Feb. 15 when he was struck by a black, four-door sedan and killed at about 1:30 p.m.

• After three decades as a tenant in St. Thomas, Addiction Services of Thames Valley (ADSTV) finally found a place of its own. On Feb. 20, ADSTV joined the United Way, St. Thomas Elgin Small

editorialpage

St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

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Committee conundrums January is a new beginning MICKEY’S WORLD Mickey Reid

“A camel looks like a horse that was planned by a committee.”

A collective groan will sweep through most offices as the dreaded 2016 business plan begins. Regardless of employment you have, every new year brings in changes. The majority are not arbitrary, but rather evaluated and discussed . . . by a committee.

A very basic definition would declare it to be a group of people appointed for a specific function. Sounds easy enough. Qualified people are appointed or volunteer — or are “involunteered.” The amount of bodies required to make those important decisions is a first step.

It can remind you of the joke, “How many people does it take to put in a lightbulb?”

Once a common goal is put to paper, the assembly should consist of motivated and knowledgeable individuals who have a legitimate stake in the outcome. Consider that the shipping department probably couldn’t care less about the shortage of sticky notes in the administration office.

An energized committee should also have a bona fide name. “Ways and Means” and “Best Practices” committees are popular. If

you are lucky, you may be a member of an “Action Committee,” where the descriptive vagueness alone will provide you with many hours of ambiguity.

Fred Allen best evaluated a committee as “A group of men who individually can do nothing, but as a group decide nothing can be done.”

In my experiences with various groups, postponement occurred frequently as schedules radically conflicted, or absenteeism was rampant. This may be corrected by two newly minted committees who could delve into such matters.

Various other problems would surface before any items were actually actioned. “How long will this take?” “You guys mind if I get a coffee first?” And the inevitable, “Sorry, I forgot the report.”

Once things got underway, grimmer news would surface. “Who was providing that data? Oh, Marsha . . . she’s not here.”

Committees need to have priorities and have mandated deadlines. If employees are struggling with an ancient copier or Flintstone computer system, it’s not acceptable to postpone it to the next meeting. Surprisingly, not everyone is in awe of an official committee. “A group of the unfit, appointed by the unwilling, to do the unnecessary,” was Stuart Harrol’s assessment.

Not to worry if your new committee is conflicted over the sticky note shortage.

That’s what sub-committees are for.

pull from their inner strength to move forward in life. Comments such as; “I have to keep on trucking,” “Stand still in HEALING A HEART’S the midst of turmoil,” “No one is going to LOSS do it for me,” and “If I stop now I don’t know what will happen,” are stated when Barbara J. Saunders there are still mountains to climb and there is no end in sight.

January, the start of a new year; what January can be a time when life identido you say to yourself? For some there fies another year gone by, another anniare thoughts of resolutions. Stop smokversary to deal with, another moment to ing, lose weight, and get more physically look back upon or a moment to stop and active or whatever is decided. Now, add say ENOUGH of this. There are individuthe grief component, what do you say to als who do say “ENOUGH!” Enough of being this way, and enough of everything yourself and what comes to mind? connected to grief.

Depending on how long ago the loss Motivation or not, January is a new was, there may be reflection on how far you have come and how much you have beginning with or without you. If not right now, then later on as long as you accomplished or not. Perhaps there are stumbling blocks in the way and you have start looking at life in a different way.

Life will start to change where your focus choices and decisions to make for yourself and others whom you are responsible goes. You decide, you choose whether you start to focus on how you now want for. Motivation may be needed at this life to be or not. time.

I know making this choice is not easy.

I have heard a few motivating comChoose wisely, your life depends upon it. ments when life is hard and individuals

Who or what steers you SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

Be resolute with resolutions AS I SEE IT Rick Wellwood

I was talking to my wife this week about the possibility of making a New Year’s resolution. Her yoga instructors tell her that the term “intention” is kinder than resolution.

Apparently you can ease into it and not feel guilty when you break the faith. I don’t hear many people talking about this at all. Is it a custom from a bygone era, or am I turning into an old coot?

The best thing to do is to make a resolution that is ridiculously easy to keep.

I resolve to give up eating boiled kiwi fruit, or I resolve to eat less than a box of chocolates in a week.

We are testing ourselves and don’t

want to feel ashamed or inferior. A lot of times we will tell no one that we have even made a resolution so we won’t feel they are checking up on us and interfering with our independence.

Twelve years ago, I made my last resolution. I was finally willing to give up my nicotine habit, and with the help of three flights of patches, I stopped, feeling that I might fall back into the habit, but determined that I was done for good.

I still frequently dream I am smoking, but when I wake up, I turn away from the demon weed, thousands of dollars richer.

They say you can find your food tasting better, but I have always found that the right foods taste good at any time.

If you are a smoker who is reading this, I assure you that if you really want it, you will not only quit, but you can even be around smokers and not seriously mind it.

If you are on the track for a New Year’s intention, I wish you the best.

St.Thomas/Elgin A Community Newspaper, published by Metroland Media.

15 St. Catharine St., (Lower) St. Thomas, N5P 2V7

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Pastor Cusick Those who read my column with some degree of regularity know I am a sailor.

To control or manipulate the wind to get your sailboat moving where you want to go to, you need the following things.

You need a sail to catch the wind.

You need a rudder and centerboard to manipulate the wind so you can get your boat to go in a certain direction. If you do not have a rudder and a centerboard, you are at the mercy of the wind. Whatever way the wind is blowing will be your direction of travel.

You will have no control over your boat at all — you will be simply blown along by the wind.

Brendan was a Celtic pilgrim who was known for his seafaring journeys.

On one such journey he records the following: “The wind died, and the sail hung limp, the men rowed, though they

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knew not where.”

Finally, Brendan ordered the fatigued rowers to stop. He cried, “God is our helper. He is our navigator and helmsman, and he shall guide us. Pull in the oars and the rudder. Spread the sail and let God do as he wishes with his servants and their boat.”

As we enter 2016, what or who determines your course of action? Are you self-managed? Are you a victim of people or circumstances? Who is at your rudder?

You see, the cold hard facts are simple — someone is steering your boat. It could be others. It could be past hurts. It could be a vision you have for the future.

It could be your spouse, your kids, or your boss.

But, rest assured someone, somewhere, is steering your boat.

Brendan made what might have been a brave or a dumb decision. Because his journey had some spiritual implications, he decided to throw caution to the wind and trust only in God. He, in essence, allowed God to steer his vessel — maybe not that bad of an idea?

And that, is something to think about.

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Founded in 2009 by Terry Carroll

What’s 5-10 percent?

As we look into the New Year, we reflect upon our accomplishments and where we want to improve.

It is a time of reflection. Many people make bold resolutions to change their lives.

What if I told you that a small change, such as 5-10 percent could noticeably alter your health? What if I told you that weight reduction of only 5-10 percent could dramatically improve your life?

One in four adult Canadians and one in 10 children are clinically obese, meaning six million Canadians are in need of support to reduce and control their excess weight. Obesity is a leading modifiable risk factor for Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis and cancer. Excess body weight accounts for about 25-30 percent of cases of hypertension.

One can lower their blood pressure by losing 5-10 percent of their weight; this is especially true as body weight increases. In conjunction with a salt restricted diet, rich in vegetables, fruit and low-fat dairy, the blood pressure benefits could be potentially even more noticeable.

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The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

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Alaina Vaughan

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At the close of another year we like to say THANK YOU! We wish you and your family a SAFE Holiday Season, and a New Year of health, happiness and prosperity.

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HEALTH TALK

Diabetes is affected by our weight. Studies have shown that reducing weight by 5-10 percent can reduce the markers of diabetes similarly to medications and prevent people from progressing from prediabetes to diabetes.

Diet and exercise are two cornerstones to any weight reduction strategy. A reduction in calories and addition of an exercise program can assist you in reaching and maintaining your weight loss goals.

However, you should see your physician to assess your ability to participate in an exercise program before you start.

A weight loss program that is balanced and focusses on calorie reduction while preserving key elements such as protein and vitamins will lead to the greatest success.

It’s important to realize that any steps you take to reducing your excess weight and keeping it off will be beneficial to your health.

Past failed attempts should not discourage you from trying, and seeking medical help may increase your chances.

One last step to losing and maintaining weight reduction is to speak with your pharmacist about medications that could hinder or benefit your weight loss. By reducing, eliminating or adding new medications you can improve your chances of reaching the 5-10 percent.

Take care of yourselves and each other.

7

St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

April • The number was 3.55 percent % as St. Thomas council approved the city’s 2015 operating budget VRVRMM,, 55 Ye YeararTeTermrm and property tax hike on March 30.

Canadian Mortgage Among those benefiting from counExpert Centres cil’s decision was the Talbot Teen Centre, which saw its annual grant tripled from $25,000 to $75,000.

Call 519-631-1900 It had requested an increase to www.centum.ca/ $100,000.

Rob Dotzert AMP rob_dotzert Principal Broker/Owner • The annual Polar Bear Dip in Port Stanley saw about 100 brave souls rush into the water at Little Beach through an 18-inch deep hole cut in the ice. Participants helped raise nearly $15,000 for ChildCan, which helps child cancer patients and their families.

• On March 30 the provincial government announced a more than $500 million investment over 24 months through the Community Homelessness Prevention Initiative. St. Thomas dipped into the program the past two years to the tune of $1.2 million. Elgin County service providers were to receive $1.1 million over the next two years through the City of Stratford.

• The Dorothy Palmer Estate granted $15,000 to the Eat2Learn program, which feeds hungry Or other problems hearing? students across Elgin County.

• In a discussion that would continue throughout the year, parents expressed concern around possible

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plans to bus 250 students from the overcrowded Pierre Elliott Trudeau French Immersion School to Port Stanley.

• On April 7, Elgin St. Thomas Public Health asked city council to endorse a yearlong pilot program expanding an existing needle exchange initiative with two additional disposal bins. The bins were to be clearly marked and placed in well-lit areas in the Northside Neighbourhood Hub. • The St. Thomas Public Library renamed an upstairs boardroom in honour of former librarian Carolyn Kneeshaw. The gesture was made in honour of the long-serving librarian and CEO who lost an eightyear-battle with Alzheimer’s disease back in November.

• Elgin County officials acknowledge the HMCS Ojibwa will have to run “differently” if the tourist attraction is to succeed. Elgin Military Museum’s Port Burwell attraction was still operating even thought it defaulted on a $6 million loan back in March.

• The clerk working at Moe’s Convenience on April 22 received cuts to the face and chest during a robbery. Police arrested a 30-yearold St. Thomas man, Timothy Scott Smith, and charged him with robbery, aggravated assault and wearing a disguise during the committing of an offence.

• After more than 45 years in business in Elgin County, Impressions Printing stepped up with a donation of $250,000 to support the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital’s $13 million Great Expansion campaign.

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May • St. Thomas Const. Aaron Fraser pleaded guilty to a pair of charges under the Police Services Act, one for deceit and the other for discreditable conduct. A plainclothes officer in the criminal investigation division at the time, Fraser was demoted to a second-class constable for a year while working for 56 hours for free over the next six months — which would cost him about $12,500.

• Despite falling short of its 2015 campaign goal by about $170,000, the Elgin-St. Thomas United Way announced it would continue operations. Community support was seen as the mandate for continuing.

The chapter will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2017.

• It was announced Amanda Graham, 40, had been arrested on April 28 and the animal control/bylaw enforcement officer was facing seven counts of utter forged document and one count of fraud over $5,000 related to “numerous false claims,” submitted to Manulife in late 2013 and 2014. The charges against Graham had not been proven in court.

• A social media and fundraising campaign for emergency workers’ mental health flirted with global exposure having started in St. Thomas. The #ivegotyourback911 campaign raises money for organizations like the Tema Conter Memorial Trust by selling clothes and other items like beer steins and window stickers with the hashtag emblazoned across the front.

• It was announced demolition of the former Ford factory in Southwold Township could begin as early as the summer.

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festival organizers, allowed new midway work that goes into getting a pilot’s ­license. contractor Robert Amusements to amaze fes- • Despite Helena Fehr being granted pertival goers with its sprawling stable of attrac- mission by the municipality to sell crepes from her cart on Little Beach at Port Stanley, tions.

• The elevated park proposed for the for- public health officials shot down her applicamer MCR bridge over Sunset Drive came a tion for a special event permit. step closer to reality after the project received • Seven young people took centre stage for a $42,000 grant from the Ontario Trillium a panel discussion on Violence within First Nations communities, part of the Walking in Foundation.

Balance and Harmony Conference, held at June • In a letter dated May 29, it was suggested the Oneida Nation of the Thames community the city needs to invest in wheelchair-friend- centre, northwest of St. Thomas. ly bus service as there remains a concern • Some 427 letters petitioning politicians that 800 or so riders who use the service to reconsider hiking the development charge regularly run the risk of missing medical ap- applied to new detached homes from under pointments because one or both of the paral- $8,000 to more than $11,000 fell by the waylel transit buses is booked as a charter. side June 22 as council voted to move ahead • The Elgin Dental Society stepped up with the increase. to contribute $100,000 to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital’s Great Expansion campaign. The donation, to be spread over five years, is result of the society’s’ new professional development course. from the Professionals you can Trust!

• On June 13, 166 kids took to the skies over St. Thomas, participating in the Canadian Owners and Pilots Association’s COPA for Kids Day at the St. Accepting new patients!

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The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

• Homebuilder Doug Tarry held the Pa- and Country Club. Maddie Szeryk who 9 nAm Games torch high as he ran down the makes her home in Texas but has family main street in St. Thomas on June 17, sur- connections in London, won the tournarounded by a crowd of local supporters and ment. a protective barrier of police officers.

• St. Thomas Fire Rescue Tanker 8 was • Council approved the hiking of parking delivered to No. 1 Fire Station on July violation fees on June 22, bringing dozens 20. The $320,000 tanker/pumper hybrid of infractions up from below the average of can carry 6,000 litres of water and can 30 other municipalities to, in several cases, empty itself into a temporary pond in well above them. The biggest hike was just over a minute. The tanker replaces for illegally parking in an accessible spot, one that was taken off the road almost which went from $75 to $350 or about $40 exactly a year before after failing a safeabove the average. ty inspection.

July • Lumar Machining and Manufacturing unveiled its new 40-ton computer-numerically controlled milling and lathing machine.

General manager Peter Bowers wouldn’t divulge the price, choosing instead to say it represented a “significant” investment by the company.

• The third annual Extreme Elgin obstacle challenge drew 188 It’s been our pleasure to people out in the rain at the Springwater Conservation Authority on June 27. The challenge featured 10 serve you this year and we military style obstacles. Together with Expedition Elgin in the fall, look forward to being of they form the main fundraisers for the Elgin-St. Thomas Community John Gurr, Owner service to you in 2016.

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• Elgin County woodcarver Tom Scanlan celebrated his best-ever showing at the Ward World Wildfowl Carving Competition, held in Ocean City, Maryland, at the end of April. Scanlan finished second in the interpretive wood sculpture Gurr advanced division.

8 Duckworth Ave., St. Thomas Auto 519-637-9861 • The Golf Association of Ontario held the 100th edition of the In- Mon. – Fri. 7:30 am – 6 pm St. thomaS Sat. 8 am – noon vestors Group Women’s Amateur on July 10 at the St. Thomas Golf www.gurrauto.com

St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

10

August • Long-time Joe Preston executive assistant Karen Vecchio, returning NDP candidate Fred Sinclair, and former St. Thomas alderman Lori Baldwin-Sands were among those to step to run for the Elgin-MiddlesexLondon seat (Preston had previously announced he wouldn’t be running again) as the federal election campaign was announced.

• MP Joe Preston announced the city’s application to the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program paid off to the tune of $166,667. The money will be used as part of the $600,000 project to reconnect Port Stanley and St. Thomas with London and southGreat, Safe Scouting Adventures western Ontario via the L&PS Railway Corridor. join us on the Canadian Path.

• Remediation of the harbour front in Port Stanley is expected to 7th St Thomas Scouting begin in 2016 according to docuGroup Registration ments from Transport Canada.

Monday Nights in January 2016 The harbour lands were divested to Central Elgin back in 2010.

20 Flora St, St Thomas • A new lease on life was announced for the historic St. Thom(St John’s Anglican Church) as Armoury. It was announced on Registration Fee: $150 July 30 that $1.2 million would be coming from the Ministry Beaver Scouts - ages 5-7, of Defence to help upgrade the 112-year-old building.

Cub Scouts ages 8-10, • Carrie Fisher was announced Scouts ages 11-13, as the new executive director of the United Way Elgin – St. ThomVenturer Scouts ages 14-17, as. Fisher said she envisions a Rover Scouts ages 18-26.

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• A Central Elgin man was charged with criminal negligence after a crash that killed power in Port Stanley for most of the day on July 24. The man’s Chevy Malibu sedan was travelling “at a high rate of speed,” according to Elgin OPP, when it left the roadway and struck a hydro pole.

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visible in the community, but more involved in the events taking place.

• St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH) will be one of four hospitals to have an integrated stroke unit. STEGH will join London Health Sciences Centre, as well as hospitals in Stratford and Owen Sound in having the new units.

• Mostly sunny skies welcomed the 21st edition of the Iron Horse Festival. The popular event featured three nights of live

music with Helix headlining the opening night. Also back this year was the midway and a variety of vendors and artisans, along with free rides on the Port Stanley Terminal train.

September • Calendar Girls 2016, brainchild of Elgin Theatre Guild president Lesley Chapman, was unveiled as a fundraiser for the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital’s Great Expansion campaign.

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took place over the Labour Day weekend in Pinafore Park. The completion offered numerous challenges, such as obstacle courses, timed events and skills competitions.

• The St. Thomas Tomcats qualified for the Baseball Canada 21U National Championships, then travelled to Regina where they managed to capture a bronze medal. The Tomcats lost to the eventual gold medalists from Quebec.

• On Sept. 8 council accepted a proposal by New Line Skateparks Inc. for the design and

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• On Aug. 30, a group of individuals who paid $25 per person for a lunch were able to lay claim to being among the first residents to get a peek into the future of the proposed St. Thomas Elevated Park.

• After 17 years of closure, years of planning and months of anticipation, the west breakwater in Port Stanley, commonly referred to as “the Pier” reopened on Aug. 5. It had been closed for safety reasons after three deaths in 1998.

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construction of what will be known as the in St. Thomas and Elgin County. Organizers 11 Railway City Skate Board Park. The com- were hoping to raise over $20,000. pany’s winning bid came in at $588,916 and • Central Elgin council voted to accept a the facility will be built next door to the St. tender for the demolition of all five former grain silos situated on the harbour’s edge in Thomas Timken Centre.

• City council announced steps towards re- Port Stanley. organizing for better customer service. One of the changes will see the separating of the roles of CAO and city clerk. Wendell Graves assumed the new role of city manager while a search was started towards hiring a new city clerk.

• The Optimist Fitness Trail — just under one km in length and located in the Optimist Park — was officially opened on Sept. 14. The cub investment into the park was over $100,000.

• The Great Expansion was given a shot in the arm with an announced donation of $1 million from Magna International. The donation was the largest of its kind for the expansion’s fundraising campaign.

• The Sutherland Press building faced an uncertain future as the chief building official issue an order We’ll come to you at for the immediate remedial repair or demotion of the structure. The order followed concerns around the structural integrity of the structure.

October • More than 50 individuals and team walkers took part in the sixth annual Walk A Mile in Her Shoes CALL US BEFORE YOU CLAIM 940 Talbot St., St. Thomas event to benefit awareness of violence against women and children 519.633.9042 or 1-800-897-0596

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The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

12 • Representatives from the Thames Valley they were presented with a website award at

the 36th annual Crime Stopper International Conference.

• Finalists in the Enterprise Elgin business competition gathered at the New Sarum Diner on Oct. 22. Put on by the Elgin Business Resource Centre, the competition was won by Sarah Foshay, owner of Smart Dental Hygiene.

November • Canada Post announced St. Thomas and Aylmer would be moving forward with community mailboxes this month since both areas had already seen the program completed.

• Doug Tarry celebrated taking home the Ontario Home Builders Member of the Year award for pushing his industry to build not only more appealing, but also greener homes.

• Elgin-Middlesex-London MPP Jeff Yurek added his voice to those calling the planned partial sale of Hydro One a bad deal for Ontario.

• The Elgin-St. Thomas Community Foundation added St. Thomas to a list of over 350 cities around the world with Ignite Elgin, a series of five-minute talks • 7 factory-trained, experienced technicians on staff by folks ready, willing and brave Quality Service • Quick response! enough to sharing innovative and is Our Specialty!

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District School board and the United Way Elgin-St. Thomas gathered at Parkside Collegiate Institute on Sept. 28 to kick off this year’s United Way fundraising campaign.

The goal is $475,000.

• A deal to help Central Elgin create recreational fields on the edge of the city fell through after the municipality announced on Sept. 28 it would not proceed with purchasing the Hepburn Farm property after failing to reach an agreement with the City of St. Thomas.

• St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation recently won a national marketing award for its #StThomasProud social media campaign.

• Karen Vecchio, a former long-time staffer for retired Conservative MP Joe Preston captured the vote on Oct. 19, giving her a victory over five other potential suitors for the riding of Elgin-Middlesex-London. Vecchio rolled to victory with 49.2 percent of the vote.

• St. Thomas Crime Stoppers representatives were in Toronto on Sept. 27 where

FILE PHOTO

Karen Vecchio seals her election victory in Elgin-Middlesex-London with a kiss, and flowers, from husband Mike. The long-time executive assistant to retired former MP Joe Preston won the riding with 49.2 percent of the vote, easily outdistancing former city councillor Lori Baldwin-Sands, of the Liberal Party, who captured 31 percent.

• The Great Expansion, a nearly two-decade journey finally became a reality as hospital officials and community partners broke ground on Nov. 17.

• The Elgin County Railway Museum received $20,000 donation from the Dorothy Palmer Estate to help develop conceptual plans to transform the museum’s rail lands into Railway Park, a site that will one day be the focal point for museum and community events.

• The St. Thomas & District Chamber of

Commerce announced the Great Lakes International Airshow would once again be making its return to St. Thomas June 18-19, 2016.

• Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Jeff Leal, announced the province would be contributing $237,000 to help fund Planet Shrimp, an indoor shrimp farm currently under construction in Aylmer. The money will be used to help develop technology and build a closed loop, zero-exchange indoor shrimp farm.

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The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

13 • Chef Michael Smith was Two of those recognized service awards from the in St. Thomas Nov. 21 as for their significant contri- offices of the Ontario Fire the St. Thomas Elgin Gen- butions to their communi- Marshal and Governor General Hospital Foundation ties, and the province, were eral of Canada on Dec. 7. held their third annual fun- Robert Hubert and Dorothy Firefighters Scott Brett and draising gala, Black Tie & Bray, both of St. Thomas. Mike Powers were awarded Pearls.

• New Elgin-London- their 25-year service award, • Police remained tight- Middlesex MP Karen Vec- while Chief Rob Broadbent, lipped after an explosion chio was sworn in during Platoon Chief Kevin Kerrocked a St. Thomas neigh- a ceremony at Parliament nohand and firefighter Don bourhood Nov. 23. The Hill and was also named Udell were presented with blast destroyed a car, dam- the Tory critic for families, their 30-year service bars. aged homes and sent one children and social develop- • Youth volunteers who man to hospital. ment. had contributed a whopping December • A new face began wield- 1,321 total hours of their • Parents of students in ing the warden’s gavel in time to three local organizaGrade 7 and 8 at Pierre El- Elgin County. West El- tions were honoured during liot Trudeau French Immer- gin Mayor Bernie Wiehle a ceremony at the Talbot sion Public School were donned the chain of office Teen Centre on Dec. 16. In dealt some news not all after being acclaimed to the addition, George Webb and them wanted to hear when position at a session of El- Johnathan Wickwire were FILE PHOTO the Thames Valley Dis- gin County Council on Dec. given special honours as retrict School Board recom- 10. cipients of this year’s Youth Raymie Jewell and Dennis Taylor easily have the best view in Port Stanley, during the holimended that those students • Five members from the Citizenship Awards for con- days that is. The pair has once again adorned their home at 291 Selbourne Dr. with almost be bussed to Port Stanley to St. Thomas Fire Depart- tributing 46 hours each to 75,000 lights, not to mention everything from hockey-playing polar bears and sweater-clad moose, to giant pieces of ribbon candy and ornaments. continue their studies. ment were presented with the centre.

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The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

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frontdesk@theweeklynews.ca before Monday at 10:00am (25 words or less) No web addresses or email addresses please. Limit of one listing per organization per issue. Space permitting. No attachments please.

Field Naturalist Walk - Friday Jan. 1/16, at Fingal Wildlife Management Area, 34469 Fingal Line, at 10am. Info 519-494-8396.

Jan. 6. Dutton & District LIONS monthly Charity Bingo. Dutton Dunwich Community Centre, 7p.m. Featuring $500 Jackpot; numerous specials; 50/50 draw and more!

Field Naturalist Meeting - Friday Jan 8/16 at Knox Church, St. Thomas, at 7:30 pm Speaker James Durst. Topic- Benthic Macroinvertebrates Info 519-631-5279.

GRAB & GO Chicken Divine Dinner. Friday, January 8. New Vision Community Church 38 Aldborough Ave. Pick-up 4:30 6:00 pm. Pay at door $12.00.

Jan. 10. Dutton & District LIONS famous, full breakfast; in Lion’s DEN; just behind the Dutton Dunwich Community Centre. Serving 9 a.m. till 12 noon.

Community Events www.williamsfuneralhomeltd.com

Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario St. Thomas Support Group. Tues. Jan. 12, 2 - 4 pm. Knights of Columbus Hall, 265 Wellington St., St. Thomas. 519-631-9313.

Thurs. Jan. 14, 7 PM. Canadian Federation of University Women, St. Thomas General meeting. Speaker Joe Hayhoe .Hayhoe Presentation Centre Office, 132 Southgate Parkway. Diane 633-9751.

St.Thomas Seniors Centre. Chicken and Ribs Dinner. Friday January 15th, 5pm Tickets $12 Advance.

Awana Kids Club for ages 3 to grade 5 at Eastwood Baptist Church. Runs Wednesdays from 6:30 - 8:00pm. Cost - $35. Call 519-633-4131 to register.

Tuesday 2:00 pm. Fun Friendly Atmosphere.

Indoor Playgroup at Knox Presbyterian Church, 55 Hincks St. Wednesdays, 9:30-11:30 am. Ages 5 and under. No charge for parents, grandparents or caregivers. Refreshments provided.

Community Centre. Drop in Mondays and Wednesdays 12:30-3:30pm. All ages welcome. Call 519-773-5264.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) every Tuesday 6:30-8pm at the Odd Fellows and Rebekah Temple on

Friends of Library - Elgin Mall. Visit us for the best selection of used books for all ages Open Mon to Sat 9:30 to 3:30 p.m.

The MS Society of Canada support group meets on the fourth Wednesday morning of each month. Info: Carrie Chun 1-800-268-7582 ext. 3133.

Teens need YOU. Consider fostering. Call Marnie F&CS 519-631-1492. Ext.291.

Badminton at the Timken

We love letters

Moore Street in St. Thomas.

Soups On. Monday’s from 9am-noon at Destination Church, 668 Talbot St. Call 519-631-9800 to register.

Discover the possibilities of soup.

Port Stanley Legion Karaoke. Third Friday of every month 8pm. $3 beer every Mon + Fri till 7pm.

Every Tuesday Euchre 2 - 4 pm. St. John’s Church, Flora St. Best Euchre in town! Best treats! Freewill offering. 519.631.7368.

Women’s Coffee Break 1 pm, First and Third Thursday at St. John’s Church on Flora St. Bring a friend. All Welcome.519.631.7368.

The Weekly News welcomes Letters to the Editor on topics of interest to St. Thomas readers. All letters must be signed with a first and last name or first initial and last name, and include an address and daytime phone number. The Weekly News reserves the right to publish or not publish and to edit letters for length and libelous statements.

Letters should be addressed to: Letters to the Editor, The Weekly News, 15 St. Catharine Street, St. Thomas, ON, N5P 2V7.

They can also be e-mailed to editor@theweeklynews.ca or submitted online at www.theweeklynews.ca

45 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519) 631-0850

Trap and Skeet Shooting Saturdays starting at 12:30 pm at the St. Thomas Gun Club, rear of Cowan Park on St. George Street North. All welcome.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday from 10-11:30am at the Legion of St. John in St. Thomas. Call 226-700-5102 for more information.

Port Stanley Legion Seniors. BINGO. Every

St. Thomas, Ontario

V.O.N. Seniors’ Exercise Classes. Union Community Centre every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 10a.m.- 11a.m. No charge, just come out and enjoy.

Unite for Refugees-Interested in volunteering, donating, or learning more about what is being done locally in support of refugee resettlement? Call 519-631-9800.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! Join our team and help prepare breakfasts/snacks at local schools. One hour a week can make a difference! Call Charlotte: 519-207-1040.

FUNERAL HOME LTD.

The Weekly News - Thursday, December 31, 2015

Online

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Morning Kick Start on Wednesday’s from 8:30-11am at Destination Church, 668 Talbot St. Call 519-631-9800 to register. Prepare & enjoy breakfast plus a wellness activity.

Kitchen Smarts on Thursday’s from 10amnoon at Destination Church, 668 Talbot St. Call 519-631-9800 to register. Cook & sample healthy recipes using simple ingredients.

Worship Services Trinity Anglican Church The Purple Steeple People

Sunday, January 3, 2016 Epiphany Three Kings Sunday Joint Service (BAS) 10:00 a.m.

Reverend Valerie Kenyon Preaching Susan Marshall-New Organist www.purplesteeple.com 519-631-7000

Knox Presbyterian Church Hincks Street at Wellington Street 519-631-2414

Minister: Rev. Mavis Currie Organist & Choir Director: Dr.W.D. Carroll

Sunday, January 3, 2016 10:30 am Please join us as we welcome a New Year

COME AND WORSHIP WITH US, EVERYONE WELCOME

Death Notices BAER, Marguerite Pearl, of St. Thomas, passed away, on Wednesday, December 23, 2015, at the age of 87. She retired from the office at Thermodisc.

Marguerite worked for several lawyers offices prior to working at Thermodisc.

A private family service. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. LORCH, Bonnie Lyn (Turnbull), of St. Thomas, passed away, on Monday, December 21, 2015, in her 72nd year.

She worked for the City of St. Thomas at Valleyview Home for many years until her retirement in December 2004.

A celebration of Bonnie’s life was held on December 28. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. OELLINGER, Maria, of R.R. # 2 St. Thomas, passed away, on Saturday, December 19, 2015, in her 60th year.

Maria was born in Ried, Austria. She was a diligent farmer and avid gardener with the utmost respect for nature. She came to Canada in 1988 and settled in the Chatham area. A celebration of Maria’s life will be announced for a later date. H.A. Kebbel Funeral Home.

PETERS, George Dyck, of Aylmer, passed away, on Sunday, December 20, 2015, in his 65th year. George was born in Chihuahua, Mexico. The funeral service was held on December 23. H.A. Kebbel Funeral Home.

SAYERS, Edna Dorothea, passed away, on Tuesday, December 22, 2015, at the age of 69. Edna had retired from GKN Sinter Metals in St. Thomas. The memorial service was held on December 27. Shawn Jackson Funeral Home.

Sifton Family Owned Since 1926 We offer a full range of funeral planning options

519-631-1160

118 Wellington Street, St. Thomas

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