February 14, 2013

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519-633-1640 • www.theweeklynews.ca

Success story starts small

Business

Ojibwa tours start inside the fence Project loses $1.5 million grant money, but sub still open for business

The old Therm-O-Disc building.

A true Canadian success story, GCW Custom Kitchens and Cabinetry is expanding. Started in a small garage in St. Thomas in 1999, the company had just one employee and four owners. Now more than 65 local people are employed there.

Ron DeWeger, President and Owner, says the company started out of necessity, to provide cabinets for local builders. After that, it just kept growing. “We’ve grown huge over the last 12 years. We’ve grown 24 per cent a year since 2007.” The other three owners include George Vanderveen, Dave Dryfhout, Owner/ Vice President and Plant Manager and Terry Kuipers.

GCW Custom Kitchens and Cabinetry can do everything from entry level to custom cabinet manufacturing. “That’s really what we shine at, is our custom capabilities.”

The new space will be at the old Therm-O-Disc building at 95 South Edgeware Road in St. Thomas. The facility will grant them 60,000 square feet more, and includes 10 acres on which the company can expanded, if needed.

Ron says for employees this will mean a better working environment, with more space and amenities.

“Our office spaces will be increased See BUSINESS/page 2

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Despite losing $1.5 million of a $1.92 million Community Adjustment Fund (CAF) grant from the federal government, Project Ojibwa is still running smoothly. The grant was lost after the Department of National Defense (DND) took longer to release the submarine than the grant allowed.

Melissa Raven, Director of Communications for the Elgin Military Museum, says the Department of National Defense wanted to make sure the sub’s move went well, and dragged its heels because of previous issues that occurred with sister boat Onondaga, which can be found in Rimouski, Quebec.

“The long and short was it took DND longer to agree to give us the submarine, and it timed out the grant. So were were able to claim some of the money, about $400,000 for the move. . . but the other $1.5 million we couldn’t claim.”

The grant timeline ran out in October of

Study finds most can walk, bike

Be active

With 850 completed surveys, the tally is in and the results are something Erica Arnett, Health Promoter with the Elgin St. Thomas Public Health Unit was banking on. “Sixtyfour per cent of survey respondents live under 10km from work or school. That’s only a half hour bike ride, which is completely doable for most people,” Erica says.

The survey generated the highest response of similar surveys MMM Group Ltd, the agency tasked with creating the survey, has seen. The group was asked by the Healthy Communities Partnership (HCP) to come up with a vision for active Melissa Raven, Director of Communications for the Elgin Military Museum stands with the transportation in St. Thomas and submarine’s crest, painted by artist Margaret Kipp. across Elgin County. The HCP is comprised of 16 committee mem2011, and the Elgin Military Museum [Bayham] are doing is, it is like if you bers from each municipality, Elgin was given the submarine on May 15, bought a car, and your father signed a St. Thomas Public Health, commu2012. The group now holds the sub in guarantee that if somehow you couldn’t nity members and Doug Tarry Ltd trust for the Canadian people. pay your loan, he would pay. That’s what Now that the survey is complete, The shortfall left by the grant loss will our arrangement is with Bayham, and Erica says the group’s next goal is be made up by the group through fund- it has been tremendously important to to start and education awareness raising efforts and submarine tours. As us.” They have a number of years before campaign called Share The Road. It well, revenue will be generated from the these loans become due. consists of education and signage museum that will be built beside the Inside The Fence tours for the Ojibwa and will target drivers, cyclists and submarine that will house Canadian Na- have started, with 40-minute long tours pedestrians val history. running Tuesday-Saturday at 1pm, 2pm The project began in 2010 when The Municipality of Bayham is the and 3pm. Each tour will cost $5 and some staff members from some of Elgin Military Museum’s financial guar- visitors will learn about the exterior, the the municipalities talking about acantor for the project, to the tune of $6 keel, and the specially design propellers. tive transportation as a priority. The million. “I think there has been a little Just enough to pique your interest for full survey was launched in 2012. confusion about that all along with the tours slated to start by mid-summer.

See BE ACTIVE/page 2 difference between being a guarantor Total project costs, from start to setand loaning the money. It is the Elgin ting Ojibwa on her foundations in Port Military Museum that owes the money Burwell, are $8 million. to the Royal Bank,” says Melissa. “All they

Puppets teach valuable lessons

Public speaking comes easy to Yvette Locke. Especially when she’s speaking through her puppet friends.

Yvette, one of very few female ventriloquists, calls St. Thomas home.

After 7 incredible years, it’s time for a well deserved rest...

Jon Minielly

Mortgage Agent

The urge to learn ventriloquism started at a young age, when, as a child of eight, her parents took her to Canada’s Wonderland. Instead of being captured by the rides, she was interested in the front of

park entertainer, a ventriloquist. The whole ride home all she could think about was that this was what she wanted to do with her life. So the journey began.

Her parents bought her 10

lessons when she was nine years old from London teacher Lynn Froggett, which Yvette says was the best way to learn — have someone teach you. “It really helps to talk to

St.Thomas/Elgin

See PUPPETS/page 2

GOING OUT OF BUSINESS

INVENTORY LIQUIDATION

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Business dramatically. Right now they share offices. It’s a good move for everybody. There’s lots of room for growth there.”

GCW Custom Kitchens and Cabinetry takes possession of the building early April and will move in mid-summer or early fall.

“St. Thomas is a great place to be living in. Just the standard of living is good here. We want to see this town bounce back to the stature that it had and this is just one small testament to the town we live in. It’s a great place to do business.”

A second showroom can be found in London at 3537 White Oak Road.

City of St. Thomas Mayor Heather Jackson she’s proud to have GCW in St. Thomas “GCW is known as a dedicated employer in the City, with a strong emphasis on giving back to the community and I look forward to seeing what they are able to accomplish in their new location.”

Be active Continued from front page

The overall goal of the project as Erica explains, is to get everyone working together. “It was that vision of having people from various communities working together to talk about active transportation and see how we can join the municipalities, because ultimately it will be most successful when it’s a connected network.”

Survey results have been compiled into a document that includes active transportation recommendations the City of St. Thomas and the County of Elgin could pursue.

Anyone wishing to join the citizen’s advisory group can contact Erica at 519-631-9900 ext.

1247.

Council briefs

By Steve Bond BSc.Phm., CDE, FASCP

For more information, check out our blog:

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Continued from front page

It’s just the girls, as Yvette poses with friend Lily.

$50,000 TTC grant

A delegation from the Talbot Teen Centre (TTC) came to council looking for a grant in the amount of $50,000. The centre, which offers a wide range of activities and opportunities for youth in the city, asked for $25,000 last year, and is asking for more this year as a shortfall of United Way funding could occur if the agency doesn’t meet its fundraising target. Two time limited grants totalling $48,000 are also coming to an end March 31.

Council referred the grant request to the treasury department.

Jumbo’s hill a ‘perennial’ problem

Resident Gail McNaughton sent a letter to council requesting that something be done to beautify the hill that Jumbo sits on. Councillors defeated the motion to move the request to the Parks and Recreation department after a discussion about the hill causing problems. Ald. Gord Campbell, who calls this situation a perennial problem, says the stabilization of the slope is very important, but would be an expensive project not worth the undertaking when Jumbo could end up being moved.

“If we want to go through with a very expensive process, I guess we can find out exactly what we’re going to do. But I would forsee in the future that Jumbo will probably be moved and the slope will probably remain the same.” His concern is that because there are foundations from the old buildings still in the upper parts of the slope any renovation could cause some real problems. Mayor Heather Jackson shared similar concerns.

This Month Take Your Health to Heart

Pharmacy Operation Manager

Puppets teach valuable lessons

St. Thomas

Continued from front page

In February, hearts are all around us.

The stores are packed with heart shaped chocolate boxes, cards and small halfnaked winged archers as we take a single day to make up for a years’ worth of disappointments. (Ok, maybe I’m a little cynical). While Hallmark reaps the benefits of this commercialized pseudo-holiday we call St. Valentine’s Day, another organization could better use your hard earned dollars. February marks Heart month across the country. Heart Month is the Heart and Stroke Foundation’s key opportunity to reach millions of Canadians in February and alert them to the risks of heart disease and stroke. Today, heart disease and stroke take one life every 7 minutes and 90% of Canadians have at least one risk factor.

Your heart is a muscle that pumps blood to every part of your body. As such, its health is crucial to the health of the entire body and preventing or managing heart disease is critical. Your best defense for controlling or managing heart disease is controlling the risk factors that could lead to coronary artery disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, stress, excessive alcohol consumption, physical

inactivity and being overweight.

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense like on TV or movies where no one doubts what’s happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort and people affected aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help.

Some signs that a heart attack is happening include: • Chest discomfort. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

• Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

• Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Like many diseases, early intervention is key. If you, or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, call 911 as minutes count. Quick response from EMS may mean that you have many more years of smooching and wooing on a mid-February holiday. Take care of yourselves and each other.

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someone who knows.”

Along with her ventriloquism skills, Yvette can throw her voice. It voice morphs into the voice of her puppet friends when she uses her tongue and throat to form sounds, instead of forming them using her lips.

There are four main characters Yvette uses during her shows. They are Lily, Fergie, Prescil-

la and Meow. Other friends include Clyde the Bunny and Leonard the Lion. She has around 20 puppets and choosing each one is a labour of love. “I personally love puppets and the ones who talk to me I keep. I find the puppet, then the personality. The voice comes alive for me.”

Touring around is just another part of the job she loves. A large portion of her shows are done in elementary schools, and touch on a wide range of topics including how to deal with bullies, multiculturalism, creating a caring community at your school and being a friend. She travels everywhere with her puppets. “I work mostly with kids. It’s fun to see what they come up with durThe Elgin Federation of Agriculture says: ing the show.”

She finds her puppets either online or at the one-of-a-kind To the following sponsors of our Annual craft show in Toronto or the annual ventriloquism convention Banquet, Awards held Febuary 2nd, 2013 held in Cincinatti, Ohio. at St. Anne’s Centre, St. Thomas In this male dominated profession, her work has taken her from Agri Co-operative County of Elgin Halifax to Vancouver.

To book Yvette, visit www.

Dowler Karn Limited Elgin Business thepuppetlady.ca Fingal Farm Supply Resource Centre

Thank You

Graham Scott Ens Accountants Kettle Creek Conservation Authority Royal Bank of Canada Westminster Mutual Insurance Denharder McNames & Buttons Accountants

Scotia Bank Huron Tractor McFarlan Rowlands Insurance West Elgin Mutual Insurance Yarmouth Mutual Insurance IGPC Ethanol Inc.

T hanks for your support!

Why do birds fly south for the winter?

Its easier than walking!

Wealth of music leads to blues

Great food, good cheer

Herb Kebbel and Dr. Duncan Sinclair, members of the Order of Good Cheer, show smoked salmon, just one of the many dishes that were served during the 2013 Sportsman Dinner, held at the German Canadian Club on Wednesday, February 6, 2013. Other dishes included Moose pastrami on rye bread, pickled venison hearts and caribou pies. Food for the event was donated by members of the order.

Surrounded by hundreds of CDs and vinyl records, life for Kaleb Hikele is anything but sad. The 23 yearold former St. Thomas resident has released his own CD, a soul and blues album entitled Love Is Gone Away.

He wrote, recorded and produced the album with the help of friend Matt Powell and the new CD is available at his online music shop Moon Melody.

Matt, a hip-hop artist from London, also has a love for soul and blues music, and currently lives with Kaleb. Kaleb plays most of what you hear on each recording. Other friends helped lay down trumpet lines and backing vocals. “I tried to lay down the foundation for each tune, then bring in a lot of friends to sing and play guitar solos and different parts and features all over the album.”

Having graduated from Parkside Collegiate Institute in 2008, Kaleb attended two music colleges

in Toronto. He met Matt at the Harris Institute in 2009.

All recordings were done in his townhouse basement, which was converted into a music studio, complete with a piano in the living room and other instruments lying around the house.

With 10 years of bands and songwriting behind him, Kaleb says inspirations for this record include Ray Charles, Billie Holiday, Otis Redding and Etta James. When Kaleb was five he started playing the piano and sang in a choir.

The album was released under the moniker The Broadview Band, something Kaleb says came about because they didn’t know how they wanted to release the album.

Love Is Gone Away, the album’s title, is a play on words from the second track. The album has 10 tracks and can be found online at www.moonmelodyrecords.com

Matt Powell and Kaleb Hikele.

3 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

Musician releases CD

New 2 You closes up shop after seven good years

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News -

Receives Diamond Jubilee Award

Diamond Jubilee Award recipient Giles Hume prepares to cut the Engagement 4H Ontario, Brent Howe, Giles Hume, Denise Bancroft, celebratory cake at the 2013 Elgin 4H Awards held at the Union Norm Stansell, Henry Helder, Anne Stansell, and Cameron McWilliam United Church, Saturday, February 9, 2013. Pictured are, from left: – Elgin County Warden. (photo by Tim Harvey) Don Catt, Debra Brown – Senior Manager Volunteer & Community

Phil James is wrapping up business in February. With his wife, Helen, he owns New 2 You Auto, Renew 2 You Auto Detailing and the Discount Car and Truck Rentals business on South Edgeware Rd. in St. Thomas.

The time has come to say goodbye to all that.

But Phil wants everyone to know that he’s not going bankrupt, and his health is just fine. After seven years, he’s decided to close the businesses, pay his creditors, and find a job to pay off his mortgage and his line of credit.

When he opened, Sterling Truck was manufacturing full steam, and hundreds of vehicles passed his shop every day. That great exposure ended in 2009 when the plant closed. It was blow to a family business that was already reeling from the recession that had started in 2008. Phil and Helen continued to rework the business model over the last five years, but have now

Elgin County takes home marketing award

Tell Tell Tell Old

Elgin County Economic Development has received an Economic Developers Council of Ontario award in recognition of the combined 2012 Savour

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decided to close rather than take on more debt.

Other than some frustration with traditional financial institutions, Phil has no regrets about his experience. “I’ve had seven great years. The clients I’ve dealt with have been awesome.

We’ve had really good staff, and I’ve made some great business friends at organizations such as the St. Thomas Executives Association.”

He has “great hope for St. Thomas in the long term,” and he would prefer to find a new job in this community, if at all possible.

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Elgin County received honourable mention for the Elgin County Living Television Series on Rogers TV and the ElginLicious Marketing Campaign.

The guide was developed in conjunction with marketing firm Yfactor and Elgin Arts Trail partners the Elgin Business Resource Centre and the St. Thomas – Elgin Public Art Centre. The guide takes residents and visitors on a journey to some of the area’s best restaurants, farmers’ markets and wineries as well as the area’s finest art galleries, studios and artisan craft locations.

“It is an honour for Elgin County to be recognized amongst our provincial peers,” says Elgin County Warden Cameron McWilliam. “It is evidence of the Economic Development department’s commitment to the promotion, growth and support of our business community.”

2012 marked the third season of the highly successful Savour Elgin Culinary Trail and the second season of the award winning Elgin Arts Trail. It was evident that Savour Elgin and the Elgin Arts Trail have similar audiences so in 2012 the decision was made to combine the two guides into one to allow for increased cross promotion.

For a copy of the combined 2012 Savour Elgin/Elgin Arts Trail visit www.savourelgin.ca, www.elginartstrail.ca or call (519) 631-1460 ext. 168.

Random Acts of Kindness

By Don McCabe

V.P., Ontario Federation of Agriculture

The Ontario government recently released an action plan to protect biodiversity, the variety of life on earth, including species diversity, genetic diversity and ecosystem diversity in the province. The plan, called Biodiversity: It’s in Our Nature, is a 52-page report that outlines the roles and responsibilities for activities in two dozen categories ranging from supporting biodiversity education to reducing urban sprawl.

The action plan is based on the work of a 2011 strategy developed by the Ontario Biodiversity Council, where the Ontario Federation of Agriculture has a seat. The OFA thanks the government for showing leadership in developing this strategy, and for recognizing the key role Ontario farmers play in preserving the land, water, plants and animals for future generations.

Ontario farmers manage ecosystems as part of daily activities on the farm. Along with growing safe, affordable food and the daily tasks of running a business, taking care of the landscape on the farm is naturally part of a farmer’s job.

As such, farmers are uniquely qualified to observe how changes on and near our land affect the wildlife and plant species living on our properties.

Biodiversity is important to Ontario farmers, but current legislation meant to protect biodiversity is also a hindrance to many farm businesses. The Endangered Species Act, 2007 governs protection requirements of plants and animals that are identified as “species at risk” in Ontario. Farmers encountering endangered species on the farm can face financial repercussions due to the loss of the use of their farmland.

That’s because once a species is considered a Species at Risk, it receives automatic protection for both the species itself, and for its habitat.

Biodiversity’s great value to all cannot just be achieved by regulation. An ecological goods and services program that recognizes the true value provided by the agricultural landscape is needed. The OFA has advocated, through our role on the Ontario Biodiversity Council, for an ecosystem-specific approach to wildlife protection, rather than a species-specific approach. For example, farmers that are currently required to protect endangered species and the specific habitats such as that of the grassland-

Starwood employees Sariah Swaenepoel, Kelly Basacco and Matt Davidson enjoy the free chili lunch during Random Acts of Kindness Day.

dwelling bobolink, would be required instead to protect a grassland ecosystem on the farm, where endangered species such as the bobolink, and other grassland-dwelling birds such as meadowlarks could thrive. Focusing on the protection of ecosystem or habitat types in lieu of protecting the habitats of individual species would allow for a more holistic way to protect endangered species while still respecting farmers who rely on the use of their land for their livelihood.

As the OFA continues to provide input on the important is-

sue of biodiversity, we will continue to support many of the initiatives outlined in the action plan. Ontario’s natural wealth of ecosystem, species and genetic diversity is valuable to all of us, and as farmers we’ll do our part to contribute to its preservation. Ontario farmers can also be assured that OFA will continue to advocate for a balanced approach that delivers the important work of biodiversity preservation with the real need for legislation and programs that enable prosperous and sustainable Ontario farms.

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Event organizers and donors gathered after the free chili lunch at Memorial arena. Included, from left, are: Steve Coad, COAD Plumbing, Heating and Air, Terry Carroll, The St. Thomas/Elgin Weekly News General Manager, Heather Jackson, Mayor of the City of St. Thomas, Al Hughson, Williams Funeral Home, Carrie Houston, Rob Mise, myFM General Manager and Randy Gordon.

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Preserving biodiversity is naturally part of a farmer’s job

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News -

St.Thomas/Elgin

Terry Carroll

Wouldn’t she love it?

There are women who maintain there is nothing sexier than the sight of a man doing the dishes, especially if he’s wearing a tool belt: Holmes at home. In that spirit, rugged men of Elgin, and true, here are some Valentine suggestions that don’t cost a penny (formerly legal tender in Canada).

Rethink work Some men couldn’t less about their jobs.

Then there are those who would work 24/7 if that were possible. Neither extreme is good for your marriage. For the guys who arguably toil too much, try being home for dinner when you say you’ll be there. Or give 24/6 a shot, and dedicate one day a week to spending time with your wife rather than the job. Yes, there might be a mirror, and I might be glancing into it.

Pick your battles How shall I put this? From time to time, the woman in your life may say something that is not exactly factually correct. It’s not that she’s

lying. It’s that some of the facts are not the same as you recollect them. This really matters if it involves a vehicle coming straight at her or the time of a hospital appointment. It is of less importance if it’s the colour of the cat that wandered into the yard. Let more things go, my good buddies.

Answers All men should know the answer to a direct question such as “Do I look fat in this?” (Hint: It’s not any version of, “You know I like fat women.”). What about the more dangerous, “How do I look?” If you say, “Good,” you’re getting there.

Extra marks for “Awesome” or “Beautiful.”

Finally, you’re a man. You may feel a temptation to explain why you’re five minutes late for dinner, it matters that the cat was black and, no, you don’t like the outfit she just purchased.

When this happens, I have the following St. Valentine’s Day suggestions for your pennies.

Hearts and flowers. Chocolate. Cards that woo, or cards with wit. But go gentle on the wit.

Snow day The Stewart kids, like all other school age children, enjoyed the day off Friday, February 8, 2013 and took full advantage of their snow day. Here Mikaela, right, plays with brothers Morgan, Caden and Cole on the snow hill on Chestnut Street in St. Thomas. (photo by Brian Wilsdon)

Melissa Schneider

Ric Wellwood

The Valentine’s bug With Valentine’s Day here and love in the air, I am going to take a moment to admit I’ve never caught the Valentine’s bug. I’m a big believer in showing love every day, not just on one specific day.

That said, it could be a great opportunity to support local business. Buy your cards, candy and flowers locally this year. Without your support, smaller shops will cease to exist and so will your options. No one said love and supporting your local business had to be mutually exclusive.

In other news. . .

For the first time in almost 600 years, the Pope has decided to resign. Citing age, Pope Benedict XVI (born Joseph Ratzinger) has elected to step down by February 28, causing quite the hype about who will replace him. While the Pope won’t have an official say in his replacement, I don’t doubt his opinion will hold weight

What Happened: The Canadian government officially ceased production of the penny. All pennies collected now will be taken out of circulation and each cash purchase will be rounded up or down to the nearest nickel. Will you miss the penny?

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

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

519-633-1640 Fax: 519-633-0558

when the time comes. The last Pope to resign was Gregory XII in 1415.

The resignation of the Pope interests me, the same way his election did. It’s not all that often that we, as Germans, have someone to represent us that high up in the holy order. In fact, I can’t remember the last time we had a German Pope, and no, not just because I wasn’t around in 1285.

In other news. . .

There are so many great penny collection campaigns on the go right now. Not only are they doing a drive at the TD Canada Trust downtown St. Thomas for the Habitat for Humanity - Elgin Build, but they’re also collecting pennies at the United Way to help them reach their campaign goal. The Alzheimer Society of Elgin-St. Thomas is collecting Pennies for Memories too.

So for those of us that can’t handle counting our coppers, feel free to drop them off at one of the variety of good causes around town.

What is the American dream?

Michelle Obama returned to Chicago on Saturday to attend the funeral of a young woman named Hadiya, a victim of gun violence. Hadiya had released a video cautioning teens about the futility of guns among the general population. We all know the President’s feelings about the gun laws and assault weapons.

Because we are a distance from these troubles (Toronto, aside) we can be more objective about gun ownership, mostly because we are safe. In America, people are not safe because of the proliferation of millions of pistols and rifles that are used in peacetime, sometimes on a range, sometimes in hunting and sometimes in self-defense.

Americans own guns primarily because they are terrified. They are in a war on terror that they have been losing for more than 25 years, with highlights ranging from 9-11 to a rash of mass murders in schools among the most innocent.

The man who did the Connecticut killings took his mother’s collection of guns after he killed her and then he moved on to the children. We in Canada can still feel genuine shock and regret over the actions of a lunatic fringe. Terror has proved to be a potent instrument of war. For thousands of years, men have used terror to weaken the resolve of their enemies. In the current War on Terror Osama Bin Laden raised the ante by stealing four jets and turning them into missiles. A few thousand people were killed in an hour and a half, but the true consequences of that day was the fear that prompted the United States to take money out of health, education and social services and took those trillions of dollars to create a defense perimeter. Even when he was tracked and killed, Bin Laden has proved to be one of the most effective generals in history, forcing his enemy to the brink of financial collapse and into a state of fear and suspicion that has poisoned the American Dream.

Hassan Restum,

Jane Walker,

Kim Davis,

Mary Kuipers,

St. Thomas

St. Thomas

St. Thomas

Summers Corners

“Business wise, no. We throw all our pennies into buckets to donate to a charitable organization.“ Terry Carroll - General Manager: Nelson Parreira - Advtg. Manager: Melissa Schneider - Reporter: Linda Axelson - Sales: Chris Heil - Sales:

“No. Takes up way too much room in my wallet.”

terry@theweeklynews.ca . ........[Ext. 25] nparreira@metroland.com .......[Ext. 24] editor@theweeklynews.ca .......[Ext. 26] linda@theweeklynews.ca . ......[Ext. 27] chris@theweeklynews.ca .........[Ext. 23]

Member of St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce, St.Thomas Executives Association, Ontario Community Newspapers Association, Canadian Media Circulation Audit

“No. The penny went away when penny candy went away ... you can’t buy anything with it now anyway.”

Shari Cole - Sales: Circulation - Starmail: Laura Bart - Office Administrator: Jim McHarg - Production:

“No I won’t miss them. Most peopled disregard them anyway.”

shari@theweeklynews.ca . ........[Ext. 33] . ....................................... 519-451-1500 laura@theweeklynews.ca ........[Ext. 21] design@theweeklynews.ca Member:

The Weekly News welcomes letters to the editor.

Senders must include their full name, and a contact phone number. Phone numbers will not be published. We reserve the right to edit letters for space and content. To submit a letter to the editor, please email to editor@theweeklynews.ca fax to 519-633-0558 or mail to The Weekly News, 15 St. Catharine Street, St. Thomas ON, N5P 2V7.

CMCA AUDITED

By Barbara Kluwer Peer Leader Volunteer

Becky Kirschner is The German Canadian Club of Aylmer’s newest Miss Saxonia. Becky was crowned during the 42nd Anniversary Banquet and Valentine’s Day Dance on Saturday, February 9, 2013. (photo by April Laroche)

Letter

to

6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the St. Thomas Public Library. Registration is required. To register, contact The Canadian Cancer Society, Elgin-Middlesex Unit, (519) 432-1177 ext. 3915.

If everything seems to be going well, you have obviously overlooked something.

Come and Cheer on Your Stars!

EXCITING JR. B HOCKEY AT ITS BEST!

Drew Collinson Night

Lambton Shores Predators vs. Stars @7:00pm Adults $9 • Seniors & Students $7.00 Kids (6-12) $5.00 (Under 5: Free) Ticket details: stthomasstars.pointstreaksites.com/view/stthomasstars

T h e E d i to r

Dear Editor, of Ontario.

Let’s go backwards. Let’s go back to what Elgin Agriculture contributes $33 billion annually County should be so thankful for. What we have and creates over 700,000 related jobs. are farmers.

Thank a farmer if you ate today. That’s why we The last glacier, called “Wisconsin,” some 12 are “Progressive by Nature.” million years ago deposited the best land in Ontario. Here in Elgin we are so blessed to have David Harding, Lake Erie and fertile land that feeds 90 per cent Sparta

m o g c . a J g Wa UT O K C E CH AL E D S I H T

Living Well Beyond Cancer is a program that offers cancer survivors and caregivers answers to some of their “what’s next” questions. How do I return to normal? What’s normal? How do I manage pain, reduced mobility or breathing issues? When will treatment and medication side effects subside? Why doesn’t my partner or my health care provider listen to me? As a cancer survivor and a Cancer Society trained peer leader facilitator I encourage you to participate in this program. By attending this 6-week free program you will benefit tremendously. You will have the tools and learn the skills required to live an active, healthy and emotionally satisfying life while living beyond cancer. The opportunity to network, share experiences and problem solve with other cancer survivors and caregivers is invaluable. As a participant, Shirley Arthur shares: “Originally, I attended this program to learn how to help my husband cope with life after cancer. We both learned a great deal more than we thought we would. We feel better equipped to deal with our lives on a day to day basis.”

Living Well Beyond Cancer Program • is a free community-based program that is offered in a weekly 2 1/2 hour session over six consecutive weeks • it involves eight – 10 regis-

tered participants • it offers a free resource book to participants This self-management program coaches participants on how to: • deal with the emotional, physical and social aspects of living with and beyond cancer • manage symptoms, treatment side effects and medications • improve communication with healthcare team members and others • lead a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, set goals and solve problems Next St. Thomas session: March 26 – April 30, 2013

78 %

Serious injuries demand serious lawyers Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, but recovery can be slow and painful.

While medical professionals focus on physical and emotional recovery, you also need an experienced lawyer to focus on protecting and enforcing your legal rights.

$29 for 2 Windshield Stone Chip Repairs from Chip Wizard (a $130 Value)

WagJag Customer Service 416.687.5848 or 1.855.4.WAGJAG. To feature your business, please call 519.649.2000

If you, or a loved one, has suffered a serious injury, we’ll be by your side on that long road to recovery.

For more information contact our London office today.

519-672-4510 1-800-263-5583 lernerspersonalinjury.ca

7 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

CCS provides support to cancer survivors/caregivers

Crowning achievement

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News -

F i n a n c i a l F e at u r e Are you 65 or older?

Save money at tax time!

A lifetime dedicated to your career has finally paid off in precious retirement years. You’ve worked hard, and you deserve to enjoy your future. But while retirement is often referred to as the golden years, living on a fixed income can be stressful and requires some smart financial planning. Here are a few ways that seniors can stretch their retirement dollars by saving money at tax time: • Public transit saves money that you might have otherwise spent on rising gas prices, parking, and car maintenance. Not only do seniors typically pay less for public transit, but the cost of transit passes can be claimed on your tax return.

• You may be able to split your eligible pension income with your spouse or common-law partner, allocating up to 50% of your pension to him or her, to lower your taxes.

• If you or your spouse or common-law partner has a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions and meets certain conditions, you might be eligible for the disability tax credit.

• If you care for a spouse or other family member who has a physical or mental illness that makes them dependent on you for care, the new family caregiver amount could save you money.

• If you receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement or Allowance benefits under the Old Age Security program, you can usually renew your benefit simply by filing your return by April 30.

If you choose not to file a return, you will have to complete a renewal form. This form is available

from Service Canada.

• Applying for the goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) credit helps to offset all or part of the GST or HST that you pay.

Other helpful tax-time information for seniors can be found on the Canada Revenue Agency website at www.cra.gc.ca/seniors. To make it easy on yourself this year, why not consider filing online? It’s simple, secure and will save you time. Information to get you started is available at www.cra.gc.ca/getready. www.newscanada.com

Claim tax credits for your child’s fitness and arts activities No matter whether your children are artistic or athletic, supporting their activities translates into a very busy family life. Between dropping your kids off at the rink and attending annual piano recitals, you’re sewing costumes and running out to get oranges for half-time snacks. Regardless of your children’s interests, save your receipts—signing up your kids for their favourite activities may save you money at tax time. Both the children’s fitness tax credit (cra.gc.ca/fitness) and the children’s arts tax credit (cra.gc.ca/artscredit) allow you to claim up to $500, per child, on the fees you’ve paid for eligible activities. This gives you a non-refundable credit of up to $75 per tax credit per child. That’s enough to tune up that violin or buy those new cleats for soccer. Or maybe you’ll decide to treat yourself with a spa or golf day. www.newscanada.com

Reach Your Retirement Goals For dreams to be achieved and goals met, retirement planning is essential. Contributing to an RRSP is the means to this end. Let us help you successfully plan the retirement you desire and deserve.

Talk to us today about your financial goals.

Ellen Luft, CFP® 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, ON

DWM Securities Inc. Investment Advisors

Steven Knipe, CIM®

519-631-4088

Everyone’s Investment Plan is a unique, individual puzzle

Leaving an estate to charity When movie producer David Gundlach passed away suddenly from a heart attack in October 2011, few people knew he intended to leave his massive personal fortune to a local charity in his hometown of Elkhart, Indiana. Gundlach gave away all of his $125 million to the Elkhart County Community Foundation.

One doesn’t have to be a famous movie producer or sports star to donate assets to charity in wills. Individuals sometimes make the choice to leave a portion of their estate to a favorite charity to create a legacy that helps the unfortunate. Such a decision may surprise family members, so it may be wise to discuss plans when drafting wills and ensuring that the correct method of bequeathing estates to charities is followed.

When a will is written, it is typically in a person’s best interest to consult with an estateplanning attorney prior to making any decisions. When working in conjunction with a financial planner, an attorney can help you grow your estate and ensure your assets will be distributed according to your wishes.

When writing a will that includes charitable donations, be very precise in the verbiage and specify your wishes and intents so they are carried out correctly.

Just like feisty family members, charities can be quite aggressive in their pursuits of funding,

particularly if they have reason to believe that money will be coming their way as part of a person’s will. In order to prevent unnecessary battling among attorneys, it is best to have all of your wishes clearly explained and spelled out so the people and organizations who matter the most to you receive the money -- and that you’re not simply funding legal bills.

Leaving money to a charity can have financial advantages for the other benefactors of your will. A bequest to a charity reduces the size of your estate, meaning less money is subject to estate taxes. While you cannot benefit from an income-tax deduction while you are alive, you will cut down on taxes afterward, which would normally take away money that was left to family and friends.

Despite the advantage to bequeathing

REGISTRATION

money to a charity, it is not something that is very common.

According to Russell N. James III, a professor at Texas Tech University who conducted a study that analyzed 20,000 Americans over the age of 50 from 1995 to 2006, only around 9.5 percent of those who donated more than $500 a year to charity planned on making a charitable bequest after their deaths.

Those who want to save money in a tax-efficient way upon making a charitable donation can choose to donate an IRA account to charity. This will save your heirs money in income taxes that they otherwise would have to pay when the IRA is distributed. There are some gray areas in doing this properly, so it is best to consult with a tax advisor.

Donating a portion or all of your estate to charity can be a way to leave a legacy and support an organization that has special meaning to you.

February 16 From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Timken Community Centre (in the gym) For information visit

www.stthomasminorbaseball.com

Your RRSP investment for your 2012 tax return can be designed to maximize your tax deduction?

St Thomas Police are investigating a theft. On January 10th, at 845 pm, the victim arrived to Goodlife Fitness at the Elgin Mall, where he went to the men’s locker room and hung up his coat on a coat rack. The victim completed his workout by 10pm and discovered his coat, cell phone and keys had been stolen. The coat was a unique, one of a kind, Philadelphia Flyers coat. The coat was black and orange in colour, with a Flyers logo on it.

DAILY SPECIALS

Prosperity Coach for Your Business and You www.accountingwithyou.com • gail@accountingwithyou.com 300 South Edgeware Rd., St. Thomas, ON N5P 4L1 519-633-7597 (ext.405) cell # 226-236-2321

Sunday – Roast Beef Dinner with Yorkshire Pudding, includes soup, your choice of potato and vegetable.

Monday – Grilled porkchop dinner with creamy mushroom sauce. Comes with your choice of soup, tea or coffee and Pudding for Dessert.

Tuesday – Beef of Chicken Pot Pie with Salad.

Comes with your choice of soup, tea or coffee and Pudding for Dessert.

Wednesday – All You Can East Pasta. Your choice of Spaghetti, Fusilli or Penne noodles with Meat sauce, Marinara or Mushroom Sauce. Includes a Side Salad (Garden or Caesar) and a Slice of Garlic Toast.

Thursday – Half Roasted Chicken Dinner.

Comes with your choice of soup, tea or coffee and Pudding for Dessert.

Friday – Fish & Chips. Comes with your choice of soup, tea or coffee and Pudding for Dessert.

Exit 195, Highway 74 & 401 Home of the Big Canada Flag 519-644-0200

Call: 519-631-1900 www.centum.ca/ rob_dotzert

5 Year Fixed Rate

519-633-1000 AOffice: reputation you Directfrom Line:people 519-495-0789 trust you know.

FSCO# 10513

Canadian Mortgage Expert Centres

2.89% Homes • Condominiums • Estates • Rentals • Retirement • Commercial Circulation 30,500

Thursday February 14, 2013

519.633.1640

Office: 519-633-1000 Direct Line: 519-495-0789

9 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

shed/workshop with hydro. Many updates inside and out. Paved double drive with carport www.portstanleyhomes.ca

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News - 1

Watch for our Full Colour Ads Beginning February 28th Only in the Weekly News

St. Thomas Office 491 Talbot Street, St. Thomas

519-633-0600 www.royallepagetriland.com

V i s i t w w w. r o y a l l e p a g e t r i l a n d . c o m

Karen Kimble*

John Knowles*

Jordan Lauzon*

Colleen Sharon Dan Macdonald* McCulloch* Merkley**

Garry Morritt*

Greg Pfeifer*

Matt Pfeifer*

Bobbie Robinson*

491 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519-633-0600

Martin Kathy Cindy Trethewey** Willoughby* Van Acker*

Broker**

Dan McCulloch* Cell 519-860-2083

John Knowles* 519-633-0600

Affordable family home in the village of Port Stanley.

Three bedrooms, 2 full baths, one main floor and one on second level (both recently updated), open concept kitchen, dining room and den on main level which could be main floor bedroom. Contact Martin at 519-808-5607.

John Knowles*

Original owners and you can be the new owner of this immaculate very clean and well kept family home. Features gleaming, red oak hardwood, ceramic floors and some laminate. Centre island in kitchen for that quick snack before leaving for work or kids to school. Solid maple wood cabinets highlight the kitchen and a new ceramic back splash. Phone John Knowles for your personal viewing.

Carolyn Baines* 519-719-1490

Colleen Macdonald* 519-671-0060

George Esler* Cell 519-868-7775

41 LEGER AVENUE

Dan McCulloch*

Great family home in south east St. Thomas close to Doug Tarry Sports Complex. Three good sized bedrooms, extra large country style kitchen with loads of counter space.

Greg Earl* Cell 519-878-7140

ONE OF A KIND! $

00

9,9

George Esler*

SUNDAY 2-4 Check it out at: www.georgeandcolleensellhomes.ca

Roberta Kerwan* Cell 519-661-8585

Colleen Macdonald*

Nelson Conroy* Cell 519-630-7470

Carolyn Baines*

Come check out this newly listed South Semi. Affordability at its best! This well maintained home features 3 Bedrooms, large finished rec room with basement walkout! Fantastic location. Contact for a list of improvements.

Cindy Van Acker* 519-852-2245

2AT

NS 4

Cindy Van Acker*

OPE

1–3

189 MYRTLE ST

Great location! Bring your family to see how they fit!! Quiet street, perfect for kids & bicycles or let them play in the fully fenced back yard while you watch through the kitchen windows. Lots of updates including painting & refinished hardwoods in 2012. Come out Sunday for more details!

00

9,0

9 $3

UN

2-4 Red brick with private drive in the family friendly Courthouse!

Advance private showing call 519 630 7470

Lindsay Benwell* Cell 519-200-7501 NS

UN

6 $1

Greg Earl*

Big and beautiful home on paved road, minutes from the beach in Port Bruce and Aylmer. 4 finished levels and a 45 ft x 26ft games room over the garage with wet bar, bathroom, fireplace, and 2 skylights. This 3 bedroom home backs onto ravine & woods making it perfect for entertaining friends & family MLS#514172

OPE

NS

Call Roberta Kerwan 519-633-0600 or 519-661-8585

MANY REASONS TO VISIT! 36 SOUTHWCK ST. OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY FEB 17TH

00

9,9

OPE

Roberta Kerwan*

Let me help you with the purchase or sale of your home.

Nelson Conroy*

49253 SPARTA LINE THE ULTIMATE COUNTRY PROPERTY

NEW LISTING • 279 CHESTNUT ST.

48 EDGEWELL CRESCENT

OPEN HOUSE

0

,90

4 36

Three bedroom, 2 full bath ranch only minutes to London, Hwy 401 and Port Stanley. Main level has 9ft ceilings, Brazilian hardwood floors, eat-in kitchen with patio doors leading out to sun deck.

Lower level features family room with gas fireplace, area for a pool table with large bedroom and ensuite. Double garage with tons of storage. Come visit me on Sunday from 2-4!

5 $2

1-4

83 SHAW BLVD WAITING 4 U!

306 COLBORNE ST. PORT STANLEY

Martin Trethewey**

SAT

1-3

$

N OPE

SAT

9 18

23 AMBLESIDE DR.

Stunning 2 year Don West built 3 bedroom home. Features include open concept design, gas fireplace in living room, master w walk in closet & fully finished lower. Backyard backs onto field & forest. Won’t last long!

Go to www.kristenscheele.com for more info.

0

,90

N OPE

$2

Kristen Scheele*

Kristen Scheele*

I N D E P E N D E N T LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D

Martin Trethewey**Cell 519-808-5607

Kristen Scheele* 00

Lestari Rupert*

Serving St. Thomas, Port Stanley, Elgin County & London

Sales Representative*

,9 49

John Robinson*

138 LAKE MARGARET TRAIL REDUCED - LAKE VIEW BUNGALOW!!

Very large 3+2 bedrooms bungalow has a bonus loft. You’ll say “WOW” as you walk in to the grand foyer. Beautiful kitchen by GCW with quartz counter top & island facing a open concept vaulted ceiling living room. All with the view of the lake. Extra large double garage, in-floor heating in the basement, and all wired surround sound in the main & lower living rooms. There are 2 separate entrances to the basement, ideal for Lindsay2List@gmail.com future in law suite or apartment. Come and see it for yourself. MLS #512128

Lindsay Benwell*

Welcome to The Weekly News real estate pages The Weekly News is pleased to be launching a new feature that appeals to readers and advertisers of the paper. The aptly named Real Estate section is starting this week, and adds value to the community newspaper serving St. Thomas and Elgin.

Weekly News General Manager Terry Carroll said, “Since the sale to Metroland

Media Group last fall, we have been looking forward to using the resources of the larger company to grow the newspaper. This is the first of a series of steps to achieve that vision.”

Leading the charge in this effort is Nelson Parreira, advertising sales manager for St. Thomas Elgin Weekly News. “We’ve been getting a very warm reception as we make the rounds of real estate brokerages in this area. I’m excited to begin with an advertising partnership with Royal LePage Triland. Moving forward, I’m confident that we will develop some great additional advertising relationships,” he said.

As the Real Estate pages develop, the team at The Weekly News envisions the possibility of a

Real Estate pull-out section. Shari Cole, formerly with The Brant News in Brantford, recently joined the advertising team in St. Thomas Elgin after her husband was transferred here to manage branches on behalf of RBC. While at the Brant News, Shari developed considerable expertise in working with real estate clients.

St. Thomas Elgin Weekly News is celebrating its fourth anniversary in March of 2013. It was started by Terry and Nancy Carroll when they converted the monthly Super Shopper to a weekly newspaper in 2009.

Growth has been steady at the community newspaper as well as the magazine, Elgin This Month, launched in partnership with the Cham-

ber of Commerce in September 2010. That magazine is proud to showcase the Chamber’s Business Beat publication in its pages.

“The new Real Estate pages are wonderful additions to some of the other special features and pages we’ve become involved with,” Terry Carroll said. In the local area, The Weekly News and Elgin This Month have partnered with Great Lakes International Air Show, the St. Thomas Home Garden and Outdoor Living Show, Kettle Creek Conservation Authority and many others to produce specialty publications and sections for the community.

491 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519-633-0600 I N D E P E N D E N T LY O W N E D Peter A N D O P E R AT E D Meyer**

Carolyn Baines*

Kodi Becker*

Lindsay Benwell*

Christine Broome*

Dennis Broome**

Betty Lynn Cassis*

Nelson Conroy*

Karen Dench*

Greg Earl*

George Esler*

Lestari Rupert* 519-280-2517

90

0

SA T1

2$ 0

-3

• Newer 3+1 bdrm brick Ranch on 51.98 ACRE • Fully finished lower has games room, family room & 4th bedroom with walk out and huge walk in closets.

• Home is in move in condition with gleaming hardwoods, spacious rooms and gorgeous views.

• Approx. 20 acres workable land. • Pond, stream & bush to enjoy.

89 MANOR ROAD 3 bedrooms with a bonus room above the garage. 2 1/2 bathrooms, fully fenced with mature trees, good size backyard. Concrete driveway in November 2011. Central vac and BBQ gas hook up. Walking distance to shopping centre and park. It’s a house to call home!!

50 ACRE FARM

3 bedroom bungalow on .66 acre, treed lot that overlooks Catfish Creek. Very well maintained home is perfect for year round living or an exceptional summer home! Call Karen for details. MLS#509486

Lestari Rupert*

THINK SUMMER!!!!!

• Quality home. Many updates throughout • Eat-in kitchen. Separate dining room.

• Main floor family room with lots of windows • Master bdrm ensuite, balcony & lots of closets • 3 bedrooms plus 2 bedrooms on third floor

4, 2$ 8

-3

70 GRAND AVE., LONDON LONDON BOUND? WOW!

Garry Morritt*

This fresh spacious nicely renovated new listing is nicely located on the Thames River in downtown London. All brick, deep lot to the river’s edge. Vacant, quick close possible, Come see it this weekend, MLS#513687

0 9, 2$ 7

Sharon Merkley** Seniors Real Estate Specialist

EN

SU

90 0

OP

N1

-3

230 COLBORNE ST., PORT STANLEY 15 REDTAIL • NEW PRICE WOW!! COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTIAL New price for this 1 owner custom built 1650

Newly finished commerical unit located in the busy downtown. Port Stanley core. Plus a large 2 story unfinished rewar addition with great views of the village. This is a great investment in port! The hard word is completed simply call in the finishing trades. MLS#511750

sq ft home on a cul-de-sac close to the Mall.

Main floor family room with fireplace for winter evenings. Many upgrades here include hardwood & ceramic floors, 2 full baths, master has ensuite & access to rear yard.

6 appliances included. SEE YOU THERE

Greg Pfeifer*

1$ 4 4,

Residential, development, retail and industrial sites available.

Dennis** & Christine* Broome 519-637-0133 or broome@wwdc.com “Specializing in You since 1982”

519-633-0600

OP

EN

SU

N1

193 HIGHVIEW GREAT 3 BEDROOM SEMI

For all the information.

www.royallepagetriland.com

Three bedroom home in full service village of West Lorne. Move in ready. Insulated attached garage.

Spacious office. Nice rear yard.

90 0

LAND

St. Thomas Office 491 Talbot Street, St. Thomas

210 MAIN ST GREAT LOCATION

Matt Pfeifer*

Betty Lynn Lynn Cassis* Cassis* Cell Cell 519-670-9436 519-670-9436 •• www.bettylynncassis.com www.bettylynncassis.com Betty

broome@wwdc.com

Dennis Broome**

Are you a fan of Open Concept?

Do you love high ceilings and lots of light? Would a backyard backing onto greenspace appeal to you? We have all that and more to offer, so check us out. What a great Valentine gift!

519-633-0600 www.sellingelgin.ca 2$ 8 4, 50 0

SA T1

2$ 1 9, 00 0

2$ 8 9, 90 0

EN

4 LEVELS OF LIVING SPACE

90

0 4$$ 2

LOCATED IN KILWORTH! KOMOKA!

Amazing 4 bedroom, 2 storey home with a 2 car attached garage. Sitting on a mature treed lot. Large backyard with an in-ground pool, Main floor has a vaulted ceiling in living room to 2nd level. Dining, eat-in kitchen, great room with fireplace. main floor laundry, 4 bedrooms, Master ensuite and 4 pc. bath on 2nd level. finished recroom. There is a wrap around front porch and more.

Garry Morritt* 519-633-0600 OP

New price for this 1 owner custom built 1650 sq. ft. home on a cul-de-sac close to the mall.

Main floor family room with fireplace for winter evenings.

Many upgrades here include hardwood & ceramic floors, 2 full baths, master has ensuite & access to rear yard. 6 appliances included. SEE YOU THERE

1$ 3 4,

Rob Kilmer*

CUSTOM 4 BEDROOM HOME!

Immaculate 2 storey home with a 2 car garage, sitting on .73 of an acre, on a cul-de-sac. This home also has a 16’X32’ in-ground pool which is fenced. Open concept kitchen to a great room with gas f/p.

Main flr laundry, dining rm, den, 4 bdrms. Master ensuite and 4 pc, bath on 2nd floor.There is a finished lower level rec-room with gas f/p and an oak bar. Many updates. Located south of St. Thomas, south on Sunset Rd. to John Wise Line, turn right then left on Applegate Lane

-3

Sharon Merkley** Cell 519-670-0630 4, 90

0 3$ 8

7,

50

0 090 9, 1$ 5

32 THIRD AVE. • JUST MOVE IN

Karen Kimble*

15 REDTAIL

SA T1

Jim** Harris

Rob Kilmer* 519-633-0600

Well maintained 1.5 storey with 2+1 bdrms, located on the south side of St. Thomas. Main floor has kitchen, eating area, living room, bedroom, 2nd floor has 2 bdrms. There is a finished rec room and play room. Large two-tiered deck off eating area to a full fenced yard. Many updates, shingles, furnace, c/air flooring and more. A must to see!

EN

0

Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013 11 AM to 1:30 PM St. Anne’s Community Centre Tickets at door $5.00 Soup sampling • Silent Auction • Door prizes

• Updated home on 1 acre lot • Natural fireplace in living room • Sunroom overlooking heated in-ground pool • Features-Cabana, waterfall.

• Newer furnace, air-conditioner, shingles • Professionally painted throughout.

OP

50

0 80

SOUP’S ON

9,

OPEN HOUSE SUN. 1-3 4 FARLEY PLACE

18 JAMES TURVEY PLACE

Spacious 3+ 1 bedroom home on cul-desac in desirable Lynhurst Village. Features kitchen with eating are, main floor family room with fireplace, formal dining room and living room, main floor laundry, Attached double garage and large pie shaped landscaped lot with tiered decks.

ISellStThomas.com • Cell: 519-857-5429

Heart & Stroke

2$ 6

3$ 4

9,

80

0

Barb* and Kathy* 519-633-0600 • www.barbandkathy.ca

Broker**

Karen Kimble* 519-633-0600

JUST LISTED

PORT BRUCE

Rob Kilmer*

9,

4,

EN

Roberta Kerwan*

3$ 0

0 90

OP

4$ 7

2$ 1

9,

5,

90

00

0

0

Karen Dench 519-633-0600

Barb Ginson* Kathy Willoughby*

Jim Harris**

Serving St. Thomas, Port Stanley, Elgin County & London

Sales Representative*

Karen Dench*

Barb Ginson*

Christine Broome*

Betty Lynn Cassis*

-3

This home features open living room and dining area. Eat-in kitchen. Patio doors off master bedroom, to fenced backyard.

Large finished lower level. This is a great value and better than paying rent. Take a look.

I WOULD LIKE TO OFFER YOU MY ASSISTANCE If you ever need my real estate services please call. Being a full time agent for over 45 years, I have learned a lot. Let me pass this on to you. If you are buying or selling, you will want to know everything there is to know so you can make your own decision Full time agent for when the time comes. over 40 years

1968

Watch for our Full Colour Ads Beginning February 28th Only in the Weekly News

11 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

V i s i t w w w. r o y a l l e p a g e t r i l a n d . c o m

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News - 1

How do you like your beef?

By Brian Wilsdon

Weekly News Correspondent

How does one prepare when they are serving between 200 and 300 people a roast beef dinner?

And twice a month at that.

Jim Welch, of St. Thomas, started cooking fundraising roast beef dinners at the Lodge #76 of the Odd Fellow’s and Rebekah’s Temple on Moore Street over 15 years ago.

And for the past 11 years he has been doing the same for St. John’s Anglican Church on Flora Street.

If it’s the second Friday of the month, you can be served at the Odd Fellow’s Hall, and if it’s the 4th Friday of the Month, at St. John’s.

And over 500 customers a month, testify to the quality of

the beef.

That is, 200 pounds of beef cooked for each event.

“I don’t know the recipe,” says his wife Susan, “But I do know that the beef is slow cooked with onions and his own mixture of spices.”

Both dinners require a staff of over a dozen volunteers,

Regional competition

but Welch is the beef man and the announcer for the numbers who can be served buffet style.

“He enjoys doing it. He is a people person,” adds his wife Susan.

Proceeds for both dinners go to building maintenance and humanitarian service.

And how does he spend his summers, when the beef dinners are not held? He takes over the cooking on the barbeque at home.

Susan comments “He loves to cook. It’s his retirement hobby.”

CE BUZZ Family Day – Office Closing and Change in Council Meeting Schedule

Municipal Offices will be closed Monday, February 18th, 2013 for the Family Day holiday. The regular planning meeting of Council will be held on Tuesday, February 19th, 2013 at 7:30 pm.

Waste Collection –Week of Family Day

There will be no garbage and blue box recyclables collection on Family Day, Monday, February 18th, 2013. Garbage and blue box recyclables will be collected one day later than normal the week of Monday, February 18th, 2013. For instance, if your waste is normally collected on Monday, it will be collected on Tuesday. If your waste is normally collected on Friday, it will be collected on Saturday.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

Central Elgin Growing Together

Central Elgin Growing Together promotes and supports tidiness of green spaces; recycling, composting, and other environmental projects; natural and cultural heritage conservation initiatives; and the annual Growing Together Awards/Citizen Recognition Awards night.

The Committee is looking for volunteers to serve on the 2013 Committee. If you have an interest in making Central Elgin a better, greener municipality, contact Lloyd Perrin, Director of Physical Services at 519-631-4860 Ext 277 or lperrin@centralelgin.org.

Did You Know that Property Taxes Can be Paid Monthly?

Some people find it more convenient to pay their property taxes monthly. They say it is easier to budget for smaller monthly amounts rather than the four larger instalments each year. Others like not having to worry about due dates. These people have signed up for the Municipality’s Pre-Authorized Payment Plan. To learn more about the Pre-Authorized Payment Plan, view the “Online Forms” menu on the Municipality’s website, www.centralelgin.org or phone 519-631-4860 Ext 2.

www.centralelgin.com

NEED A BUSINESS LOAN? Elgin Business Resource Centre provides loans up to $250,000 for businesses located in Elgin County and St Thomas.

Loans are available for purchasing an existing business or for new business start-ups. We can also meet your small business needs with micro-loans for $5000 or less.

Call Glenn for information on our loans programs:

Members of the St. Thomas Skating Club competed at the Dennis Silverthorne Regional Competition on February 1-3, 2013 hosted in Dorchester, Ontario. The skaters proudly represented their club in the following divisions: front row Grace Renner: Senior Bronze Starskate, Mackenzie Ripley: Level 3 Development, Middle - Ainsley May: Level 3 Development, back row Nicole Deweyert: Bronze Medal in the Junior Ladies, Paxton Knott: PreNovice Mens, Brianna Kaplanis: Pre Novice Ladies Short, Paige Blondeel: Juvenile under 14. The skating season still has a couple more competitions left and then all the skaters in the club turn their efforts to the year end show that will take place on Sunday, April 7 at Timken arena.

519-633-7597 ext 333 If you yelled for 8 years, 7 months and 6 days you would have produced enough sound energy to heat one cup of coffee.

W A Y

P E N N Y

a thought for your pennies.

Create change with your change!

Every single penny you donate to the 2013 United Way Campaign will help us meet our goal. What a simple and effective way to make your community a better place to live!

Drop off your pennies at The United Way Office or at The Weekly News

D R I V E

13 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

U N I T E D

Local dancers head to Disney

Callista Tryon and Erin McAdams are two of the Expressions dancers who are performing and training at Disney World in Florida this week.

Staff members at the TD Canada Trust located at 378 Talbot Street in St. Thomas are collecting pennies for the Habitat For Humanity St. Thomas build. Here, from back, left, Moira Smith, Karen Hodges and Branch Manager Jodi Shorrock, co-chair of the Habitat For Humanity St. Thomas build, collect pennies during their open-ended drive.

Mickey Mouse will be impressed when a group of local performers from Expressions Dance Arts in St. Thomas travel to Walt Disney World in Florida this week. The students, ages 12-17, are performing on stage at Disney. They will also be training in

dance, acting and singing, right alongside the professionals who work at Disney.

After months of fundraising, the Expressions teachers, parents and children are now packing and ready to board their flights. This coming weekend is a

ATTENTION VETERANS Friday, March 1, 2013 The Provincial Veteran’s Service Officer of Ontario Provincial Command for the Royal Canadian Legion will be visiting the St. Thomas Legion Branch 41

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ATV’s • Motorcycles • Snowmobiles • Power Products

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News - 1

Putting pennies to good use

busy holiday weekend in the USA and Canada. The girls are very proud to represent Canada and their hometown area, at Disney World. Their performance will be announced and featured at the Disney resort for international guests to see.

The young dancers will perform a variety of numbers in their original stage show. Dance styles in their show range from Musical Theatre to Jazz to Hip Hop to Acrobatics.

“Our dancers and their families are thankful for the community support for the recent team fundraisers. Fundraising has helped make this Disney dream possible for these young ladies,” says Expressions Director Elizabeth Morgan. “This is our fourth trip to perform and train at Disney. This

excursion is something the dancers have worked toward for many months now. Over the years, Expressions has had multiple students invited to audition to work as dancers at Disney, which is a big compliment to their training and ability. This trip is therefore not only a performance and training opportunity for our students, but it can potentially open doors for them to pursue a future career.”

Dancing at Walt Disney World this week from Expressions are: Mallory Braam, Rebecca Chouinard, Jessica Vader, Erin McAdams, Callista Tryon, Rebecca Williams, Katie Ennis and Alexandra Whitney, accompanied by teachers Crystal and Elizabeth and a number of the dancers’ family and friends.

February 25 - March 1 Classes at:

St. Thomas Christian Church (vocals) Salvation Army Citadel (piano and choirs) Fellowship Christian Reform Church (strings, instruments & bands) • Competition for major trophies at Salvation Army, March 1, 7pm • Keynotes Concert and remaining scholarship presentations at Salvation Army April 12, 7pm

Programs will be available at: Maestro Music Academy and Central Academy of Music For More Information: 519-631-0852

125TH events on TV

Aylmer council Feb. 4

The Eastlink Community channel will show the highlights of Aylmer’s 125th Celebrations this past July in a special program in the next two weeks. The show will air from Tuesday February 19 to Saturday February 23 and again the same days the following week – all program times are 10 am and 6:30 pm. The length of the program is 22 minutes and it includes footage and interviews concerning the July 1st weekend event.

-Pertaining to the request by Golden Community Builders to rent 15 spots in the downtown parking lots for the new apartment complex at Sydenham and John Streets (for an annual fee of $500 each) : “the matter was referred to staff for study. Several Council members expressed their concerns over the removal of this many ‘public’ parking spaces from municipal parking lots.”

-Concerning new voting procedures: “Staff were directed to continue to study the possibilFour running in Bayham vote ity of including voting through the internet along Four candidates will contest the vacant Dep- with the traditional voting practices for the 2014 uty-Mayor’s position in Bayham Twp.in a special municipal election.” bye-election on March 25. Nominations closed EESS grad to Brock bball in fall on February 8. Those seeking the position are: Lynn Acre of R.1 Aylmer, Bob Lozon of Port (Information from CROWN online basketball) Burwell,Rainey Weisler of Straffordville and Cliff East Elgin’s Kira Cornelissen has made a commitEvanitski of R.4 Aylmer. The vote was necessi- ment to play basketball with Brock University this tated by the vacancy created by the recent job fall. Last year, Kira helped lead EESS to the 2012 TVRAA South title. Brock is having a successful relocation of former Deputy Mayor Mark Taylor.

2012-2013 season and was ranked as high as Aylmer, Springfield ball 7th nationally recently. She will study Kinesiology registrations as a major. With the current high school basketSpringfield Brewers Children’s Fastball Reg- ball season cancelled, Kira is playing with the Triistration was held February 9 and is scheduled County Thunder of the JUEL league. again for Saturday March 2 from 3:30 to 5 pm at Amazing duo for Amazing Race Malahide Community Place. There are divisions Victoria and Bailey Player of Belmont are a for players between the ages of 4-14. See www. mother-daughter team trying out for a spot in springfieldbrewers.com or contact info@springthe upcoming Amazing Race Canada television fieldbrewers.com or 519-269-3007 for more program. Said Victoria: “We decided to apply for information. Aylmer Minor Ball also held a regisAmazing Race because we love to travel and we tration February 9 but participants can still regislove adventure and competition.” Victoria suffered ter during business hours at the Aylmer Vet Clinic a farm accident in 1985 which led to her left leg until April 1. Email aylmerminorball@hotmail.com being partially amputated. It was surgically reatfor additional info. tached but 30 surgeries later they had to fully Belmont Family Day event amputate in April 2012. Added Victoria: “I think it The fourth annual Belmont Hub Family Day is going to be very tough competition as everyone event will be held this Monday, February 18 wants to be on the show. But I have not seen any from 10:30 am until 1 pm. Activities include: other mother daughter applicants. We are both ball hockey for all ages, hockey skills challenges, very active in sports. Bailey plays hockey and snow sculpting and painting, a Chili Cook-Off and works out at the gym. I play pick up hockey, cycle at a Bey-Blade tournament. Contact Sue Beattie the Velodrome and do road cycling. And we both do hot yoga, bike, kayak, and snowshoeing.” Their 644-1982 for more information. application video can be watched at: http:// www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_ detailpage&v=azauCLfjwJk.

Songs from the heart Some of the most beautiful music from the last 50 years will be showcased during the Songs from The Heart show on Saturday, March 2, 2013.

Band members Murray Adlam, vocals, Tom Starks, keyboards and Don Durkee, tenor saxophone, will dedicate a set to the late Andy Williams, as well as focusing on the music of Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra. Other artists’ songs included in the night will be Nat King Cole, Ray Price, Roger Whittaker and others.

Tickets for the event are available at Brian’s Family Hair Care, Homedale Plaza, or by calling 519-631-2110. The concert will be held at St. Mark’s United Church, 38 Aldborough Avenue in St. Thomas at 7:30pm. Tickets are $12 in advance, or $15 at the door, if there are any left. The show is a fundraiser for the church.

Murray currently has four CDs in circulation that have received radio play, while Tom has two CDS that were recorded at the CBC in Toronto.

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Rose Csakli and Katalin Ungar are two of the many dedicated cooks responsible for the great food that comes out of the kitchen of The German Canadian Club in Aylmer. These ladies, as well as others, volunteer countless hours of their

time to prepare the cabbage rolls, schnitzel and mashed potatoes the club is famous for. The next cabbage roll and schnitzel sale is in March. To place your order call 519-773-5271. (photo by April Laroche)

Aylmer Community Services 25 Centre St., Aylmer P: 519-765-2082 Mon.-Fri 9am-4:30pm Tues. 9am-6pm

www.jobselgin.ca This Employment Ontario Program is funded by the Ontario Government

West Elgin Support Services 160 Main St., West Lorne P: 519-768-0020 Mon.-Fri 9am-5pm

15 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

Aylmer and East Elgin news

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News - 1

Good growth

The Allsource Depot, a leader in online sales of medical supplies and devices, has graduated from the Business Incubation Program at the Innovation Centre for Entrepreneurs. Pictured are, from left: Susan Gardner, ICE President, Darren Connolly, Owner - Allsource Depot – Home Health Supplies, and John Regan, General Manager EBRC/ICE.

A golfer teed up his ball on the first tee, took a mighty swing andhit his ball into a clump of trees. He found his ball and saw an opening between 2 trees he thought he could hit through. Taking out his 3-wood, he took a mighty swing. The ball hit a tree,bounced back, hit him in the forehead and killed him. As he approached the gates of Heaven, St. Peter asked, “Are you a good golfer?” The man replied: “Got here in two, didn’t I?

h t i w e c n a D Eugene J D Frid ay, February 22, 8:00 pm

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DON FERGUSON • Real Estate • Corporate Law • Commercial Law • Wills and Estates

Canadians reach Food Freedom Day on February 14 Debra Pretty-Straathof

V.P., Ontario Federation of Agriculture

When Canadians celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14 this year, farmers will mark a second national milestone: Food Freedom Day. By February 14, 2013, the average Canadian has earned enough income to pay their grocery bill for the entire year.

The date – calculated by Statistics Canada – is estimated using 2012 data that suggests during 2012 Canadians spent 12.3 per

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cent of their disposable income on food, beverages and tobacco.

In 2012, disposable income per capita is expected to be approximately $29,609. Expenditures of food, beverages and tobacco were approximately $3,662.

For Canadian farmers, Food Freedom Day is an opportunity to acknowledge the safe, affordable, quality food that is produced by farmers across the country. In Ontario alone, the agri-food industry contributes $33 billion annually to the Ontario economy and represents 10 per cent of the province’s entire workforce with 700,000 jobs. Food and beverage pro-

cessing is Canada’s largest manufacturing sector.

But Food Freedom Day can also be a bittersweet day for Ontario farmers. The farmer’s share of common grocery items is often a mere fraction of the prices paid in grocery stores. And the stringent food safety, environmental and labour standards that ensure Canadian food is of the highest quality may not always be the same standards applied to imported food that floods the grocery shelves.

Canadians spent just 9.7 per cent of household expenditures on food consumed at home in 2011 (not including tobacco and

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alcoholic beverages). In a ranking of 12 top countries, Canadians spent less on food than most countries – ahead of only the United Kingdom and the United States. Mexico spends the highest percentage of income on food at 22.7 per cent, followed closely by China, Japan, Italy and France.

Ontario farmers are proud of the vital role they play in bringing safe, affordable food to Canadians. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture is committed to continuing our work with policy makers and our food industry counterparts to ensure Ontario’s agriculture sector is built on a foundation of profitable and sustainable farms.

What has wheels and a trunk but no engine? An elephant on roller skates.

Youth homelessness a priority

by Pastor Cusick

You need a fresh life

At any given time, more than 100 youths in St. Thomas and Elgin County are homeless. These stats were brought up during the monthly Community Council for Children and Youth in Elgin County meeting, held at the Salvation Army on Tuesday, February 12, 2013.

Representatives from a wide variety of agencies throughout the county gathered together to discuss the problem and talk about what can be done to resolve the issue. The goal is to form a plan to help end youth homelessness.

Debbie Turnbull led the meeting that will hopefully create a protocol for dealing with the homeless youth in this area. The group meets every month from September to June. Over 25 service agencies lend their support to this group.

Through a research study done by Oracle Consulting, it was found that youth homelessness is due to a variety of causes including: violence, drugs and alcohol addiction, mental health problems and family relationship breakdowns.

I just read a real interesting story by Palmer Chinchen.

He told of the time he and his brother were about to embark upon a rafting trip down the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

The guide instructed the participants as follows. “When the raft flips over (note not if), then it is imperative that you stay in the rough waters. You will have a tendency,” he explained.

“To go over to the calm waters. issue for us was this--the water However, that could be a fatal was clear; it wasn’t green, nor mistake. For you see, the croc- stagnant. Stagnancy comes odiles wait in the calm waters! from a lack of flow. If there The crocs won’t bother you in weren’t any fresh flow of water, the rough waters--so that’s the color of the water would where you need to stay until we have changed and we would get the raft righted and we all have stopped drinking it. climb back on board.”

Your life needs fresh life.

Palmer’s point was this: Do something new, something “Stagnancy kills your spirit.” I helpful. Making a difference in recall, as a little boy, playing in another person’s life will help to the woods near my grandpar- give you fresh life. If you don’t ent’s cabin. The woods near do anything. If you never help their cabin were on the side another person. If you never of a hill. At the bottom of the give money to help anyone. If hill, there was a little creek that you never go to help someone ran filled with fresh water. I of- else your life will become stagten remember we would kneel nant. And I warn you, the crocodown and drink that fresh creek diles of life love the slow stagwater. I’m not sure I would do nant waters and they will come that anymore, but back then, it and finish you off! And that is seemed like a great idea. The something to think about.

Lindsay Rice, chair of the Community Council for Children and Youth in Elgin County.

ROUGH ROAD AHEAD Unless we act NOW!

Pat Palmer welcomed members to the January meeting held at the home of Connie Silcox. She opened with a reading from a book called The Farmer’s Wife. The roll call was answered by describing your health by using one of the letters in the word healthy. Various answers were heard - mostly comical.

The minutes and treasurer’s report were heard. Thanks were given for volunteers to the Elgin Manor Tuck shop in January. The winter picnic was announced for Feb. 13 at Knox Pres. Church in Fingal. Brenda Silcox will prepare a Nominating Committee list to be dealt with at the next meeting. The meeting was then handed over to convener Connie Silcox who took us down a healthy road using the letters in the word Healthy. For ‘H’ she presented us with a cross word puzzle all answered with heart health.

n ot e s

For ‘E’ the parts of the eye were studied, followed by arthritis for ‘A’. Many facts were shared about this disease that many suffer from.

Laughter was next on her agenda when she shared many comical jokes and reading which kept us laughing for sure. She continued through the

word health finishing up with the ‘Y’ - it’s all up to You. Take care of your health as best you can.

Lunch was then enjoyed by Connie and Jean Palmer as well as a time of conversation and more laughs. Next meeting will be at the home of Pat Palmer on February 27.

UNITED WAY ELGINST.THOMAS

EMERGENCY APPEAL

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17 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

Something to think about

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News - 1

Call (519) 649-2600 • Fax: (519) 649-2608 • stthomasclassads@metroland.com Business Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Telephone Hours: Monday to Thursday 8:30 am - 5:30 pm Friday 8:30 am - 5 pm

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Bassets Are Best!

Meet Wendell, a 4 yr old basset hound mix.

He is a real character, lots of fun, and comical.

To meet Wendell and all our homeless pets: www.allbreedcaninerescue.petfinder.com 519-633-6226

Whisker Tickles Cat Sitting Service 519-495-5654

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To Place an ad in Classifieds please call Call 519-649-2600 • Fax: 519-649-2608 stthomasclassads@metroland.com

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Domestic Help Available

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uracy of your ad. Please check your ad on the first insertion. For multiple insertions of the same ad, credit will be made only for the first insertion/ Credit given for errors in connection with ed. Cancellations must be made by 10:30 a.m. two business days prior to publication date. Cancellations must be made by telephone. Do not fax or e-mail cancellations.

Deliver your message to more than 30,000 households in St. Thomas & Elgin!

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Support Services ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Drinking is your business. Helping you to stop is ours.

Call 519-633-0430 or Write P.O. Box 220001, St. Thomas, ON N5R 4P5.

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Advertise your community event here... free of charge!

Please email your nonprofit event to laura@theweeklynews.ca before Monday at 10:00a.m. (25 words or less) No web addresses or email addresses please.

Limit of one listing per organization per issue. Space permitting.

No attachments please.

Exchange student. Do you have teenagers at home? Hosting a Rotary international exchange student for 3 months could be a wonderful experience for everyone.

519-637-0045.

Pearce Williams Christian Centre is looking for enthusiastic and dependent Board members who can help bring the future vision to life. If interested call 519-764-2317.

Grief Share is a weekly support group for those grieving the death of someone close to them.

Runs weekly on Thursdays until May 30, 7-9pm at Fellowship Church.

Nervous about public speaking or a job interview?

Talbot Trail Toastmasters can help.

Visit a club meeting, Thursday evenings 7pm.

Elgin Mall Community Room. 519-637-7798.

Do you have an hour a week to spare? Become a Volunteer Visitor. Call VON at 519-637-6408 for more information.

Do Your Own Family Research, Family Search Centre, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, 436 Elm Street. 519-631-8282.

Wed. 10am-9pm, Sat. (1st and 3rd): 10am-2pm..

Port Stanley Public Library, 302 Bridge Street, features the work of Guild members Sandra England and Roxanne Jervis through February. Call 519-782-4241 for times.

Take Your Sweetie To Lunch, 4th Annual “Heart and Stroke Soup’s On Challenge”, February 14 at St Annes, 11-1:30pm.

Tickets only $5. Come Hungry.

Thursday, February 14, Kickers, 6pm, St. Andrew’s United Church, mid-week group, ages 5-13, games, music, craft. Everyone welcome.

Info 519-631-4558.

St. Thomas Stamp Club Meeting, February 14, 7pm. Community of Christ Church, 105 Fairview Avenue. Info Rick Badgley 519-637-8432. Everyone Welcome To Attend.

Karaoke, Friday, February 15, 7-10pm. St. Thomas Legion, Br. 41. 24 John St. Everyone welcome.

St. Thomas Seniors Centre, Roast Beef and Yorkies Dinner, Friday February 15, Tickets $10 Advance $12 day of. Dinner at 5pm.

Comedy in Motion with Bob Cates and a silent auction, Faith Church, 345

Fairview Ave, Friday, Feb 15, 6:30-8:30pm.

Tickets available at the church. Adults $15, Family $35. 519-633-0976.

Valentines Dance in support of Stork Club, Saturday, February 16, Port Stanley Arena featuring Sahara Swing Band. Includes complimentary late-night sandwich buffet.

Tickets 519-633-6202.

Friday, February 22, Meal & A Movie, 5:30pm at St. Andrew’s United Church, 60 West Ave. Please R.S.V.P. Info 519-6314558. Everyone Welcome.

open 6:30pm, sale starts 7pm.

Auctioneer Al Hughson. Free admission 519-631-7368.

Murray Adlam’s “Songs From The Heart”, Saturday. March 2, 7:30pm, St. Mark’s United Church, 38 Aldborough Ave. Tickets $12. advance, $15. at door. Call 519-631-2110.

Sparta Community Bingo, Friday, February 22, 7-8:30pm, Sparta Public School Gym. Donations to School Literacy Program. Questions 519-775-2524. March 2 from 10 a.m.

- 12 noon. Youth BaseValentine’s Dance, Sat- St. Thomas Stamp ball Registration at the urday, February 16, Live Club Philatelic Exhibi- Union Community Centre Band, Cash Bar, Lunch tion, Saturday February provided. St. John’s Par- 23, 9:30am-5pm. Com- $45 per child - Call ish, 20 Flora Street. For munity of Christ Church, for more info - Vicki tickets & info, contact 105 Fairview Avenue. 519-631-3840.

St. Hilda’s-St. Luke’s Free Parking and Admis- Next Low Impact Circuit Church. 519-631-0504. sion. Everyone Welcome. Training Session at Union Cancer Relay For Life Val- St. Thomas Rotary Mu- Community Centre begins entines Dance, Sat. Feb. sic Festival takes place March 5. Registration 6:30 16, 8pm-1am, Knights February 25 to March - 7. Classes run Tuesday 7 of Columbus. $10/ea 1 at 3 venues. Awards - 8 p.m., & Thursdays 5 or $15/couple. Music, competition March 1 at 6 p.m. 519-631-3840. midnight buffet, silent Salvation Army.

Infor- March 6, Lenten Lunch auction, prizes. Contact mation 519-631-0852. Noon Hour Recital ProBrad 519-280-5937.

Tues. Feb 26, Euchre gram, featuring George Field Naturalist Walk, Club, St. John’s Church Heldt at Trinity Anglican Sunday, February 17, of Flora St. Do you love Church with the Purple 1:30pm, Fingal Wild- to play Euchre? Meet Steeple Lunch following, life Management Area. people? Have a great Soup and Sandwiches $7. main parking area. time?

We play every March Break Program.

Info 519-631-5279. Tuesday 2-4pm. Freewill Union Community Centre offering. 519-631-7368. March 11 - 15 - Movies, Family Day in Sparta, Monday February 18, Drum Circle, St. John’s Outdoor games, crafts 11am-3pm, free draws, Church on Flora St. Tues- lots of fun. Lunches and and games, free hotdogs day, February 26, 7pm. Snacks. Call to register at Tearoom, conditions Family friendly. Instru- - Vicki 519-631-3840 apply. Donations for Car- ments available. Abso- or Joy 519-633-6403. ing Cupboard accepted. lutely no experience nec- March 13, Lenten Lunch essary. 519-631-7368. Noon Hour Recital ProTues. Feb 19, Euchre Club, St. John’s Church February 27, Lenten gram, featuring Elizabeth of Flora St. Do you love Lunch Noon Hour Recital and Ted Rae at TrinChurch to play Euchre? Meet Program, featuring Angus ity Anglican people? Have a great Sinclair at Trinity Anglican with the Purple Steeple time? We play every Church with the Purple Lunch following, Soup Tuesday 2-4pm. Freewill Steeple Lunch following, and Sandwiches $7. offering. 519-631-7368. Soup and Sandwiches $7. Sparta’s 200th AnniverTuesday, February 19, Wednesday, February sary Fundraiser Dance, Creating into a Mystery/ 27, Bible Questions, Saturday, March 16, Prayer Shawl Group, 10:30am at St. An- Pleasant Valley GC, 8pm10:30am, St. Andrew’s drew’s United Church. 1am, late lunch & door United Church, 60 West Everyone is welcome. prizes. Tickets $10, call Ave. Info 519-631-4558. Info 519-631-4558. Connie 519-775-2560 or Shane 519-775-2607.

Everyone is Welcome.

Thursday, February 28, February 20, Lenten Kickers, 6pm at St. An- Rummage/Boutique sale Lunch Noon Hour Recital drew’s United Church, at Knox Presbyterian Program, featuring Bob mid-week group, ages Church, Hincks Street, St. Towers at Trinity Anglican 5-13, games, music, Thomas - Saturday, March Church with the Purple craft. Everyone welcome. 23, 8:30 am to 11:30 Steeple Lunch following, Info 519-631-4558. am. Sunday School serving coffee and cookSoup and Sandwiches $7.

Thursday, February 28, ies - freewill donation.

Elgin Business Womens Turkey Dinner, 5-6:30pm Network, February 20 at St. Andrew’s United March 20, Lenten Lunch meeting at St Thomas Church, 60 West Ave. Noon Hour Recital ProRoadhouse, 837 Tal- Tickets 519-631-5363 gram, featuring William bot Street, networking or 519-631-4558. Lupton at Trinity Anglican 6pm, dinner 7pm. Tips Everyone Welcome. Church with the Purple Steeple Lunch following, for 2013 with Sharon Lechner, RSVP online. St. Thomas Stamp Club Soup and Sandwiches $7.

Meeting, February 28, Home Alone Safely, 7pm. Community of Christ Canadian Cancer Society, ages 9-12, learn the Church,105 Fairview Av- free 6 week program for basic skills to be safe enue. Info Rick Badgley cancer survivors and carewhile alone in the home. 519-637-8432. Every- givers: “Living Well beyond Feb 21 to Mar 21. Call one Welcome To Attend. Cancer”. Every Tuesday 6-8:30pm starting March YWCA 519-631-9800.

Port Stanley Public Li- 26. Call 519-432-1137.

Thursday, February brary, 302 Bridge Street, 21, Thursday Euchre features the work of Guild March 27, Lenten Lunch Games & Dessert, 2pm member Candy Macmani- Noon Hour Recital Proat St. Andrew’s Unit- man through March. Call gram, featuring Dr. Wayne ed Church , 60 West 519-782-4241 for times. Carroll at Trinity Anglican Church with the Purple Ave. Everyone Welcome.

Info 519-631-4558. Field Naturalist Meeting, Steeple Lunch following, Friday, March 1, 7:30pm, Soup and Sandwiches $7.

Roast Beef Supper. St. Knox Church, St. ThomJohn’s Church on Flora as. Presentation by Sue Free Family Easter Event, St., Friday February Southon on Arctic Adven- Union Community Centre 22, 5-7pm. Fill your tures Info 519-631-5279. March 30, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Easter egg hunt, plate for $12 which includes dessert.

All March is Epilepsy Aware- Puppet Lady, animal that and we will clean ness Month, Open House balloons, crafts, Easter up, too.

Fantastic. March 1, 11-5pm, El- Bunny. Union South Yargin Mall Community mouth Optimist Club.

Port Stanley Lioness Room.

Seizures 101, Club, Chili Cook Off, Fri- learn about different The Nale Family and day, February 22, Port types and what to do, at Kingway Quartet GosStanley Arena.

Chili 1pm.

519-633-8476. pel Concert, Saturday, April 20, 6pm, East Tasting 6-7:30pm.

Adults - $9, Children 6th Annual Pies & Purses Elgin Community Com6-12 - $5, Under 6 Free. Fundraiser Auction, Sat- plex, 531 Talbot Street urday, March 2 at St. W., Aylmer, 519-773John’s Church. Doors 7302. Freewill offering.

Dine Out Dinner Roast Beef and Yorkshire Pudding, Monday April 22, Trinity Anglican Church with the Purple Steeple, 5-7pm, $12pp, Take Out Available, 519-631-7000.

Trinity Anglican Church The Church with the Purple Steeple

Wednesday Morning Eucharist 10am 9:00am (BCP) Holy Communion 10:30am (BAS) Holy Eucharist and Sunday School Father Jawn Kolohon Officiating Liz Rae Minister of Music

Wanted. Craft and garden vendors for Port Stanley Legion 410 Spring Show May 4. Please contact Gloria 519-637-3292.

Dine Out Dinner Roast Pork, Monday May 27, Trinity Anglican Church with the Purple Steeple, 5-7pm, $12pp, Take Out Available, 519-631-7000.

Dine Out Dinner Chicken BBQ, Monday June 24, Trinity Anglican Church with the Purple Steeple, 5-7pm, $12pp, Take Out Available, 519-631-7000.

www.trinitychurchstthomas.com 519-631-7000

Knox Presbyterian Church

UNION UNITED CHURCH 6008 Stonechurch Rd. 519-631-0304

Hincks Street at Wellington Street 519-631-2414

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

www.unionunitedchurch.ca We are A Welcoming Friendly Family of Faith Sunday Services and Sunday School are at 9:30 am

Former Clark/VME Em-

February 17, 2013 - 10:30am Guest Minister: Rev. Malcolm Rust

Sermon: “You make the angels cry”

Won’t you please join us! We’re celebrating 175 years!

COME AND WORSHIP WITH US, EVERYONE WELCOME

Yet another great reason

to look forward to your Weekly News!

St.Thomas/Elgin

BOURIS, MRS. IRENE (nee KERELIUK), of Sparta, formerly of Manitoba, passed away Thursday, February 7, 2013, in her 72nd year. A memorial gathering to celebrate her life will be held in the Rodney Hall of Knox Presbyterian Church, 55 Hincks Street, St.Thomas on Friday, February 15, 2013 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Sifton Funeral Home.

McDADE, EDWARD JAMES “ED” passed away on Sunday, February 10, 2013 in his 45th year. His blog “My Path” was an inspiration to 50,000 followers. A funeral service was held February 13, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

LEWIS, ETHEL DOREEN of Caressant Care Home, St. Thomas and formerly of RR #1, Sparta, passed away Wednesday, February 6, 2013 in her 90th year. A funeral service was held February 11, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

FUNERAL

MERTICK, HATTIE (NEE SENICAR) of St. Thomas passed away CRANDALL, MRS. MARGARET (nee KUBU), of St. Thomas, formerly Sunday February 10, 2013 in her 96th year. Private graveof R.R.#1, Sparta, passed away Saturday, February 9, 2013, in her side service at a late date. Shawn Jackson Funeral Home.

81st year. The funeral service will be held at the Sifton Funeral Home, St. Thomas on Thursday, February 14, 2013 at 1:30 p.m. MILLARD, LILLIAN C. of St. Thomas, passed away on Friday, February 8, 2013 in her 94th year. A funeral service FELLINGER, SHIRLEY MARIE of Middlesex Terrace, Delaware, passed was held February 11, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. away on Thursday, February 7, 2013 in her 80th year. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. PRONG, JACK of Aylmer passed away Saturday, February 9, 2013 in his 87th year. A funeral service was held FIELD, FRANK R., of St. Thomas, passed away Satur- Tuesday, February 12, 2013. H. A. Kebbel Funeral Home. day, February 9, 2013, in his 100th year. A private graveside service will be held. Sifton Funeral Home. TRAN, PHAN of London, passed away Thursday, February 7, 2013 at the age of 77. A service was held HAWKSBY, ETHEL KATHLEEN of Bobier Villa, Dut- February 9, 2013.

Shawn Jackson Funeral Home. ton, passed away Monday, February 4, 2013 in her WALTERS, THOMAS, “TOM” of St. Thomas, died on Mon96th year. A private family service will be held at a later date. Rodney Chapel of Denning Funeral Directors Ltd. day, February 4, 2013 in his 75th year. A funeral service was held February 9, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. JENKEN (FERGUSON), ROWENA BLANCHE of Central Elgin, passed away on February 8, 2013 in her 82nd year. Me- WIACEK, BRONISLAWA “BERNICE” (PALKA) of Country Terrace morial service at St. James Presbyterian Church, North Nursing Home, Komoka and formerly of St. Thomas, passed away Yarmouth on February 16, 2013 at 2:30 p.m. Visitation Monday February 4, 2013 in her 91st year. Mass of the Christian one hour prior to the service. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. Burial was held February 7, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. LAMPMAN, JOHN (RONALD) EUGENE of RR #4, St. Thomas, passed WITROWAY, TILLIE (PISIAK) of Oil Springs and formerly of away on Sunday, February 3, 2013 in his 62nd year. A funeral Rodney, passed away Tuesday, February 5, 2013 at the service was held February 9, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd. age of 88. A funeral mass was celebrated February 8, 2013. West Lorne Chapel of Denning Funeral Directors Ltd. LAPLANTE, THERESA OF St. Thomas passed away on Sunday, February 10, 2013 in her 87th year. Visitation Thursday 2 – 4 and 7 – 9 pm at Williams Funeral Home. Mass of the Christian Burial Friday February 15 at St. Anne’s Church. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

MASSECAR, RAYMOND EARL of St. Thomas, passed away Monday, February 4, 2013 in his 88th year. A funeral service was held February 8, 2013. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

SIFTON

HOME

Sifton Family Owned Since 1926

We offer a full range of funeral planning options

519-631-1160

118 Wellington Street, St. Thomas

19 - February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News

Community Bulletin Board

February 14, 2013 - St. Thomas - Elgin Weekly News - 2

Valentine’s Day Trivia

Q: The oldest known valentine that is still in existence today was written by Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife. Where was Charles when he penned this valentine?

A: In the Tower of London. The greeting is now located in the British Library in London.

Q: One legend of St. Valentine contends that he was a priest in third century Rome. The Emperor outlawed marriage because single men made better warriors. Valentine, however, continued to perform marriages in secret. When the Emperor discovered what Valentine was doing he ordered that Valentine be put to death. Who was the Emperor?

Q: Approximately what percentage of Valentine’s Day cards are A: Claudius II. Claudius II died of the plague not long after the purchased by women? death of Valentine. He is one of the few Roman emperors to die A: 85. This is according to the Greeting Card Association. a “natural” death. www.funtrivia.com

GIC RATES

Q: Approximately how many Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year?

A: 1 billion. Valentine’s Day is the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. Christmas is first with approximately 2.6 billion cards sent.

1 Year Rate— 1.75%

Q: Cupid is whose son?

A: Venus. Venus was the Goddess of Love and Beauty.

* All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

Q: The most notorious St. Valentine’s Day was in 1929 when seven people were gunned down in an assassination attempt in Chicago. Five members of one mobster’s gang planned to kill members of a rival gang, including the leader. What gang planned the shooting, and who was the main target?

A: Al Capone’s gang planned to kill Bugs Moran. Bugs Moran was on his way to the garage where the killing took place, but turned away when he saw someone dressed as a policeman (the disguise of the killers) and escaped. One of the seven killed was an innocent man who happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time.

3 Year Rate— 2.30% 5 Year Rate— 2.55%

For more information contact Ellen Luft, CFP® or Steven Knipe, CIM®, Investment Advisors.

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

519-631-4088

GIC RATES 1 Year Rate— 1.75% 3 Year Rate— 2.30% 5 Year Rate— 2.55%

For more information contact Ellen Luft, CFP® or Steven Knipe, CIM®, Investment Advisors.

* All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

Did You know?

Pope Gelasius declared February 14 to be Saint Valentine’s Day in 498 A.D.

ers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives about 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet every Valentine’s Day.

Richard Cadbury invented the first Valentine’s Day candy box in the late 1800s.

About 110 million roses, most of them red, will be sold for Valentine’s Day this year.

The Italian city of Verona, where Shakespeare’s lov-

During Victorian times, it was

St.Thomas/Elgin

519-631-4088

considered bad luck to sign a Valentine’s Day card.

Others make a telephone call (49 per cent), give a gift (48 per cent), plan a special dinEighty percent of all Valentine ner (37 per cent), give candy GIC RATES cards are purchased for rela- (33 per cent), have a meal in tives.1 Year Rate— 1.75% For a restaurant (30 per cent), or more information give flowers (19Luft, per cent). contact Ellen CFP® 3 Year Rate— 2.30% Seventy per cent of those cel- or Steven Knipe, CIM®, ebrating Valentine’s show Investment www.researchmaniacs.com Advisors.

5 Year Rate—Day 2.55% their affection by giving a card. * All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

“When is it ok to kiss someone?

What the kids say...

“The law says you have to be “The rule goes like this: If you eighteen, so I wouldn’t want to kiss someone, then you should mess with that.” marry them and have kids with Curt, age 7 them. It’s the right thing to do.”

Howard, age 8 “When they’re rich.” Pam, age 7

GIC RATES

JOB FAIR

1 Year Rate— 1.75%

St. Thomas, Ontario

519-631-4088 We are looking for energetic, reliable and customer service oriented individuals to join our team!

We offer a desirable work environment GIC RATES and flexible work schedules for full and part time For more information 1 Year Rate— 1.75%positions. contact Ellen Luft, You3must be available to work April to CFP® Year Rate— 2.30% or Steven Knipe, CIM®, October. Knowledge of the game of Investment Advisors.

5 Year Rate— golf2.55% (an asset). * All rates are on an annual basis Positions are available in the following and are subject to change without DWM Securities Inc. prior notice. departments: 130 Centre Street Pro Shop, Club House and Ontario St. Thomas, Course Maintenance.

519-631-4088 Should you not be able to attend that day, please fax your resume to 519-631-3222 or GIC RATES email janet@stthomasgolf.com.

For 1more details on positions For moreavailable information Year Rate— 1.75% contact Ellen Luft, CFP® please go to the following link: 3 Year Rate— 2.30% or Steven Knipe, CIM®, http://www.stthomasgolf.com/index.cfm?I Investment Advisors.

5 Year Rate— 2.55% D=311 * All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

519-631-4088

519-631-4088

GIC RATES more information CarRate— Wash1.75% & AutoForDetailing in TOWN!!!

1 Year Baked Goods Like No Other! Best contact Ellen Luft, CFP®

Bakery Hours: Monday to Friday 9am-6pm Saturdays 9am-4pm, Sundays 10am-3pm

Fresh at Its Best!

24 First Ave., St.Thomas 519-633-0040

SERVICE TO ALL MAKES Natural Gas and Dishwasher Hookups

Use Vacuum

3 Year Rate— 2.30%

FREE * All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

For 5 minutes after purchase of car wash

519-633-0107

519-631-4088

GIC RATES 1 Year Rate— 1.75% 1.75% 2.55% 5 Year Rate— 2.55%

www.mudgesappliances.com

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

160 Burwell Road, St. Thomas 519-631-5502

2.30% 3 Year Rate— 2.30%

4th Generation Business Since 1962 7 Hydro Road, St. Thomas ON

or Steven Knipe, CIM®, Investment Advisors.

5 Year Rate— 2.55%

* All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

For more information contact Ellen Luft, CFP® or Steven Knipe, CIM®, Investment Advisors.

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

519-631-4088

Feb.23rd

For more information 9a.m. contact Ellen Luft, CFP® 3 Year Rate— 2.30% or Steven Knipe, to CIM®, Investment Advisors.

11am 5 Year Rate— 2.55% at The Club* All rates are on an annual basis house 42325 and are subject to change without Sparta Line DWM Securities Inc. prior notice.

Union, Street Ontario 130 Centre

GIC RATES 1 Year Rate— 1.75%

For more information contact Ellen Luft, CFP® 3 Year Rate— 2.30% or Steven Knipe, CIM®, • Mutual Funds Investment Advisors.

5 Year Rate— 2.55% • GICs

* All rates are on an annual basis • Investment Advice and are subject to change without • Insurance* DWM Securities Inc. prior notice.

Cindy Huras,

Financial Advisor

Dundee Private Investors Inc. churas@dundeewealth.com

130 Centre Street

St. Thomas, Ontario 130 Centre Street, St. Thomas, ON N5R 2Z9

Tel: 519-631-4724 Fax: 519-631-0557 519-631-4088

www.dundeewealth.com

*Insurance products provided through Dundee Insurance Agency Ltd.

RATES Visit us at our GIC NEW LOCATION 1 Year Rate— 1.75% 3 Year Rate— 2.30% 5 Year Rate— 2.55% * All rates are on an annual basis and are subject to change without prior notice.

For more information contact Ellen Luft, CFP® or Steven Knipe, 410 John St.CIM®, N, Investment Advisors.

Aylmer

519-773-3548

DWM Securities Inc. 130 Centre Street St. Thomas, Ontario

www.wiselinemetalsales.com 519-631-4088