December 6, 2012 Issue

25

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News and views from in and around St.Thomas and area.

Transcript of December 6, 2012 Issue

Page 1: December 6, 2012 Issue

1- December 6, 2012 - St. Thom

as - Elgin Weekly New

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With rulings from the Assessment Re-view Board on the horizon, the Municipal-ity of Southwold is looking at how the Ford Plant closure will impact tax rates on the surrounding area in the coming year.

In 2010, the company was valued at $46 million by the Municipal Property As-sessment Corporation (MPAC), and pro-vided 24.5 per cent of the total property taxes. That amount was reduced by half in 2011, when the Ford Plant was given its first value reduction. Now they’re seeking further reduction and are appealing taxes paid for 2009-2012. It’s a move that will, at worst, cost Southwold $1.27 million. And it’s something they’re prepared for.

For the municipality, Ford is just one of many losses the town will take in 2013. Greenlane Landfill will lose a predicted $80,000 every four years until its viabil-ity runs out, as early as 2030. As capacity

is used up in the landfill it becomes less valuable. Money currently received from the property has been set aside for when the municipality knows how much of a re-fund Ford is entitled to.

Other losses for the 2013 budget include $17,000 from the Fingal wildlife area — the property was re-designated through MPAC from commercial to residential/farm, and a $54,900 reduction in the On-tario Municipal Partnership Fund (OMPF) provincial grant.

“We are still impeded by the Ford Plant, which is what brings down our grant mon-ey. The Ford Plant brings up the value of our municipality, so that it looks like each property is worth $400,000,” says Mu-

nicipality of Southwold treasurer Suzanna Dieleman. “The unemployment rate in Southwold also works against the grants we can receive because Southwold proper unemployment is lower than average.”

Suzanna says Southwold tries to set aside $850,000 a year for capital projects so that the tax rates stay smooth, with only minor increases each year.

They also seek as many grants as they can to make plans for financing future ventures.

Other items up for discussion on the 2013 budget agenda included a sewer servicing study, additional garbage pick-up days, and the promotion of Southwold via Facebook and promotional materials.

Plan in place for Ford Plant closure

More than 40 residents gathered in council chambers to listen to Southwold Treasurer Su-zanna Dieleman speak about the impact of the Ford Plant Closure as well as items from the 2013 budget.

This year marks the 130th year the Salvation Army has been giving children the gift of Christmas in St. Thomas. The organization, led by Cpt. Mark Hall, kicked off its kettle drive campaign on November 19, and will run until Christmas Eve.

Kettles are stationed at six locations throughout the city including Wal-Mart and The Real Canadian Superstore.

Mark, who came from Toronto, has been with the St. Thomas Salvation Army Church since July. The pre-vious minister re-located to a church in Oakville.

Through the church, more than 1,000 meals a month are made and provided to residents, which is funded with money from the kettle drive campaign. “In Lon-don and these surrounding areas the need for the Sal-vation Army is up 400 per cent. The demand on us is greater than it’s ever been,” Mark says.

First year volunteer Ella Kyle works three days a week at the Elgin Mall man-ning the kettle. “It’s impor-tant for people to remember the Salvation Army helps people all year long, not just at Christmas. They do so many wonderful things for our community.”

The kettles are just part of the public process that be-gins with collecting money and ends with programs such as the Youth Correc-tional Justice Centre on Talbot Street, Family Ser-vices, the Drugs and Alcohol Awareness Program, anger management for children and life skills for adults. These classes and pro-grams run all year long.

The Salvation Army also runs the coats for kids pro-gram. “We work from the premise of we’re trying to do a good thing, but we’re instructed to do the right thing,” says Mark.

Kettle drive in full swing

Volunteer Ella Kyle accepts donations at Elgin Mall during this year’s Salvation Army Kettle Drive.

Volume 8 No. 31 519-633-1640 • www.theweeklynews.ca December 6, 2012

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Editor’s note: To protect the identity of the children in this story, we will not name them or use the mother’s last name.

Melissa and her three children have had an exceptionally tough year. It’s been so bad, in fact, that her children are now fac-ing their first Christmas without their father, and without much hope for a merry Christmas.

Early this year, Melissa’s husband was caught in a large child pornography bust and was charged with three counts of sexual assault and sexual inter-ference, one count of counsel-ling to commit sexual assault and one count each of making and accessing child pornogra-phy. Now she’s left trying to pick up the pieces. It’s up to her to try give her children their best shot at having a normal child-hood, not an easy task given that they are currently living in just one room of the house they rent, because they only have

one small space heater and no extra money for the propane it takes to heat the rest of the house.

When Melissa was made aware of what was going on with her husband, she says it felt like her world came crash-ing down around her.

“I was just leaving work for home and when I got there my house was surrounded by po-

lice cars and I was told my kids were removed and I couldn’t see them until I was investi-gated.” Until the police sat with her and explained the situation, she had no idea what had hap-pened.

Since then, things have only gotten worse for her and her family. Because of her hus-band’s actions she is behind on rent and hydro. Not to mention the fact that she cannot afford Christmas for her three children, all under the age of 10. “I’m trying to get back on my feet while still letting my kids believe in Santa. It’s going to be hard enough on them, losing their dad, let alone having my kids tell me that everything is going to be fine because Santa will still take care of them.” She’s also trying to gather enough money to file for divorce.

There won’t be Christmas on her side of the family this year either because her mother is

scheduled for breast cancer sur-gery over Christmas. “It’s hard to keep our spirits up. I keep look-ing for the Christmas miracle, but I don’t know if there’s going to be one this year.” The fam-ily has already registered for Christmas Care.

Jason McComb, owner of Homeless Happens Helping Hands at 558 Talbot Street is accepting donations at his store on behalf of the family. Any new, unwrapped toys, food or clothing can be left with him, which he will pass along to Melissa and her children — one boy and two girls. A bank account is currently in the process of being opened so that this family can have the Christmas they deserve. “I’ll be accepting new, unwrapped gifts on behalf of the family. As well, a portion of the proceeds from sales of my hats and beanies will be going to the family.” says Jason. Donations will be ac-cepted until the New Year.

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Christmas in jeopardy for local family

...it felt like her world

came crashing

down around her.

Never naughtyFarmtown Canada’s Board of Directors tell Santa how good they have been this year during the annual Christmas on the Farm event held Saturday, December 1, 2012 in Mapleton.

An elderly man is walking down the street one day when he notices a very small boy trying to press a doorbell on a

house across the street. However, the boy is very small and the doorbell is too high for him to reach. After watching

the boy’s efforts for a moment, the man crosses the street, walks up behind the little fellow, leans over and gives the

doorbell a solid ring.“Ding Dong.” Crouching down to the child’s level, the old

man smiles and asks, “And now what, my little man?”To which the boy replies, “Now we run!”

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Christmas in jeopardy for local family

The United Way still needs you to to donate, despite reaching the halfway mark on the goal of $700,000 for 2012. United Way Campaign Finance Associate Kathy Kaill explains, “We’re running ahead of last year, but we’re still looking for community support. Ev-ery little bit counts.”

Kathy says that if each person in Elgin County donated just eight dollars the United Way would reach its goal.

The St. Thomas-Elgin United Way uses 40 per cent of its fund to sup-port programs and charitable orga-nizations in St. Thomas, another 40 per cent is distributed throughout the county and 20 per cent is given to people who have migrated out of the county. “The money donated has a huge reach. It goes out to our entire county.”

United Way reaches halfway markPaul Corriveau, United Way campaign chair, along with Kathy Kaill, United Way campaign finance associate accept a cheque from Mike Cole, newly appointed RBC communi-ty manager in the amount of $4,000. The cheque is only for the corporate donation. The employees will donate separately.

Cold Stone Christmas

Christmas Care just got a whole lot cooler with the help of Cold Stone Cream-ery. The company, located inside Tim Hortons at 995 Talbot Street, at First Av-enue, will see that a portion of each sale will go to sup-porting Christmas Care dur-ing the Christmas Care with

Cold Stone.The event will be held

Sunday, December 9, 2012 from 1-4pm and will not only feature ice cream, but a visit from Santa. Non-perishable food items and toy donations are welcome at that time.

For more information about the Christmas Care program, coordinator Andre-ana Collins can be reached at 519-637-0710.

Mountain of toysStars players collected more than $1,200 and a large amount of toys that will be donated to Christmas Care in St. Thomas as part of this year’s Toy Mountain. Players, from left: Blair Mincer, Mike Lucifora, Matt Moyes (Trainer), Scott Mitchell, Marty Kudla, Brian Moyes (dressing room attendant), spent the day collecting donations and signing autographs on Saturday, December 1, 2012.

(photo by Todd Rowley)

Law of gravity - Any tool, nut, bolt, screw, when

dropped, will roll to the least accessible place in

the universe.

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LuncheonJanuary 3, 2013

12:00pm

LuncheonJanuary 3, 2013

12:00pmSt.Thomas Golf &

Country ClubSt.Thomas Golf &

Country ClubWe’d like to introduce ourselves and get to know youRSVP by December 14 to Barb Murray, Health Recruiter:

[email protected]

from the City of St. Thomas and the County of Elginto join us for our

from the City of St. Thomas and the County of Elginto join us for our

The Health Recruitment Partnership

Cordially Invites

The Health Recruitment Partnership

Cordially Invites

Medical Students and Medical Residents

Medical Students and Medical Residents

Paw PrintsThe Holidays and

your PetAdam Mahovlich, BSc. DVMVeterinarian, Partner/Owner

Happy Holidays! Here are a few tips to help keep your pets happy and safe during this festive season.

Foods to be aware of : Grapes, raisins and currents can cause kidney failure in dogs. Chocolate and cocoa contains theobro-mine, a highly toxic chemical to both cats and dogs. The sweetener xylitol (a sugar substitute found in candies) can cause fatal drops in blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Lastly, be aware of leftovers. Feeding these to your pet can result in stomach upset, diar-rhea, and pancreatitis. Holiday Ornaments: Decorations such as old fashion bubble lights may contain poi-sonous chemicals which will irritate skin, eyes, and insides. Glass and metal orna-ments can damage mouths and insides if eaten.

Tinsel: When a pet ingests tinsel it can re-sult in what is called a “linear foreign body” which can cause severe damage and even death to your beloved pet.Liquid Potpourri: These oils can cause se-vere chemical burns to your pets.Antifreeze: As little as 1 teaspoon can be fatal to cats and small dogs. Plants: Contrary to popular belief, poinsettia plants are only mildly toxic when ingested. Plants to watch include lilies, holly, and mis-tletoe. A few bites can cause permanent kid-ney damage. Alcohol: Besides holiday drinks, alcohol can be found in certain baking as well. Unbaked dough can react in the stomach and alcohol can be produced from the yeast fermenting in stomach acid. If your pet gets into any of the above holi-day dangers, call us as soon as possible to treat any problems.

Elgin Veterinary ClinicsElgin Animal Hospital – 9789 Sunset

Rd. St. Thomas 631-0430www.elginanimalhospital.com

Talbot Animal Clinic - 930 Talbot St. St. Thomas 633-5970

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••••••• Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday Season!•••••••

DAILY SPECIALSSunday – Roast Beef Dinner with Yorkshire Pud-ding, 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

Residents can help Christmas Care by test-driving a vehicle at Disbrowe in St. Thomas from December 1 – 12, during Disbrowe’s 12 Days of Christmas for a Cause. One hundred and twenty test drives will help the company reach its $3,000 goal for Christmas Care.

Each vehicle taken for a test drive will net $25 for Christmas Care. The money will be

donated on Wednesday, December 12, 2012 during the Disbrowe Drive for a Cause launch party from 5-7pm. The launch will also show-case the new 2013 Chevy Malibu and Cadillac XTS and ATS.

The campaign started last week at Parkside Collegiate Institute and has raised a total of $1,175 to date.

Last week construction workers from The Force Group demolished the former Longhorns Texas Grill building at 877 Talbot Street.

Chris Meyer, owner of The Force Group, agrees with taking the building down, saying it was old and had been remodeled a few times. “The building was a dead horse. Sometimes a fresh face makes a difference.”

The site has been cleared to make way for future developments, which at this time remain unknown.

Over the years the location has been home to Beaudry Bros. American Motors dealership, Mother’s, Crabby Joe’s, The Talbot Station, and Samuels.

Goodbye grill Drive for a cause

Barbara Arbuckle, left, is the winner of a $1,000 shopping spree at Jennings Furniture and Design in St. Thomas. Barbara won the prize at November’s Business After 5 event and says she looks forward to shopping. Presenting her prize is Jennings owner Renee Carpenter.

Shopping spree winner

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As a full time real estate agent for over 40 years, I know what’s important to the needs and wants of myclients and their families.

Quick and convenient access to health care is always a priority, and I’m proud to tell them about the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital with a multitude of services and a 24-hour Emergency Department.

It’s a wonderful feeling to know that Elgin County families are well taken care of and can receive greatmedical care close to home.

Your Family’s Health is a Priority at our Hospital

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Young, brilliant, fresh stylist Jazzett For a short time only, you and a friend can have

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New Yoga studio opens

Stacy Chittenden knew growing up she wanted to make yoga her full time career, and her dream has come true. Younity Yoga, Aylmer’s newest store, opened in October on Talbot Street and classes started October 9.

Stacy, who is 27, has been doing yoga since she was 14. Her mother bought her a yoga mat that came with an instructional DVD and that was it. She was hooked. At 16 she bought a gym membership to Good Life, where she says she religiously attended the yoga classes offered. In 2009, she obtained her certification from the Forest Academy of Mind/Body Medicine in London.

Stacy hasn’t had it easy. Her hus-band Craig died while she was pregnant. Before he died they were

scouting for a place for her to open her own yoga studio. After his death, she wanted to give back. “I opened this store on the first anniversary of

my husband’s death. It’s something he could be proud of.”

A new, unique class that Stacy aims to start in the New Year is a

class called Healing Hearts Yoga. The program aims to help people who are grieving by teaching them how to re-lax in body and mind. The class will emphasize breath work, preparing for meditation and stimulating blood flow. It will be a nine-week session. Anyone interested can contact Stacy at 519-639-2885.

Healing Hearts plays on another aspect of yoga. “I wanted Younity to offer Healing Hearts for people to feel safe, comfortable and supported. Ev-eryone registering for this program has lost somebody and I think this class will help them. It lets them not have to grieve alone.”

Yoga has been the biggest help in healing her loss. “Most people just think yoga’s an exercise. Yoga has been a part of my life for so long that it’s a lifestyle to me.”

Other classes she offers include Aeroyoga, a cross between aerobics and yoga, and Restorative Yoga.

Younity Yoga owner Stacy Chittenden performs the Sukhasana pose, one of many poses she will teach in her classes.

Police in St. Thomas are investigating the theft of a com-puter from the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital. The computer

was located in the X-Ray/CT suite. IT records show that the computer

went off line at 12:38am on July 11th. It was noticed missing at

3:10am that morning. Items sto-len were a HP Compaq 8000 Elite, tower and monitor. Serial number

CAC952017Y.Value of this theft is $1,200.

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Province creates Catch 22

When it comes to wages and benefits, it’s often dif-ficult for teachers to gener-ate a lot of sympathy among

the general public. For one thing, most people have been through the school system and have experienced what they consider to be a poor teacher at one time or the other. We all think we are somewhat knowledgeable about teachers and how they should be compensated – espe-cially in light of the perceived incompetency of Mr. X or Ms. Y.

Yet the government of the Province of On-tario, currently prorogued, has accomplished the nearly impossible. Through Bill 115, the government has set the stage for just about anybody to be able to sympathize with teach-ers and unions in the public elementary and secondary school systems.

Bill 115 froze the wages of senior teachers for a couple of years while allowing more ju-nior teachers to advance up the grid. That alone might not have been a problem. But the legisla-tion also prohibits strikes or lockouts. Unions

argue that the bill stripped away their rights to collective bargaining.

Um, yes, it effectively did.As I understand it, the bill didn’t do this as

permanent policy. Teachers were not declared an essential service. Instead, the removal of the right to strike was the stick to keep teachers in line for a few short years. (The carrot was the overall good of society, for a province so broke that it has to do something).

But here’s the thing about removing the right to strike. What is the province going to do if teachers and their unions decide to strike any-way?

Will the province send in the police? That’s what normally happens if people defy the law.

There is no precedent for this government doing anything of the sort. Remember Caledo-nia anyone?

The mere thought of a striking teacher be-ing photographed while handcuffed by the OPP would send members of this government, prorogued or not, shuddering to the corners of their offices.

There are horns to this dilemma . . . horns teachers may march right through, with the support of the public.

Buy your own umbrella

Last week, I had the plea-sure of attending my first meeting in the Municipal-ity of Southwold’s council chambers. It was a budget

meeting with a focus on the Ford Plant closure. One thing about the meeting really struck a chord. Unlike many municipalities, Southwold has a plan. One that makes great fiscal sense in a time when credit rules, and nations can be bought and sold on the cheap. They save for a rainy day so that when it pours, and it always pours, they’ll have their umbrella. And they’ll have paid for it in cash. Up front.

How many municipalities can boast that nowadays when so many Canadians cities are plagued by corruption and corporate greed in high office.

This brings me to the opposite end of the spectrum. The end with no plan B, and fiscal reserves that appear to be as dry as the Sa-hara. I’m talking about what’s going on with our neighbours to the east, in the Municipality of

Bayham. In early November, the Deputy Mayor re-

signed, and councillors are at an impasse on how to fill the vacant seat. Half want to appoint, the others want a bi-election. Problem is a bi-election will cost $16,500 and council is crying it doesn’t have the money. So they are asking that residents dig deep to provide 1.65 million pennies to cover the cost through a Penny Drive to buy a bi-election for Bayham.

While the concept is clever, it would be en-tirely unnecessary if, like Southwold, Bayham had planned for this rainy day. Now that it’s raining in Bayham, councillors would like the constituency to dig deep to pay for the town’s umbrella.

I think the Deputy Mayor, who I’m sure col-lected remuneration for his role on council, should pay some of that salary back. That way council won’t have to go begging for as many pennies.

Towns need to start planning for these rainy days, not begging for loose change. Saving for a rainy day might be the old way, but I say let’s make it the new way. Our economy needs it.

The rule is so simple. If you don’t have it, don’t spend it.

More emissions, more money

It’s hard to deny that Mother Nature has been sending us some broad hints about climate change, with the increase in hur-

ricanes, the floods in England, the disappear-ance of several glaciers in Greenland, and the melting of the polar ice cap. Of course, we should do something about it and concerned nations are gathered in Qatar to try reinvigorat-ing any actions that will reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases. We have sent Environ-ment Minister Peter Kent to the conference, but before he left, he made it clear that Canada would not cut emissions if it meant the sacri-fice of economic growth. He also insists that emerging nations should assume much of the burden, though they have very little economic growth at all.

Apparently Kent believes that we can hold off on the emissions cuts until our economy looks a lot better. I suppose it’s a question

of whether or not we can do this before the climate change intensifies. Can we take this chance? The Harper government’s focus on the economy means the emissions question will go on the back burner for some time. Even if the economy recovers well, would we still do anything about the greenhouse gases? I recall that before the First World War, there were no income taxes. They were created to help fund the war and were supposed to be a temporary measure. Oh, yeah!

There are a large segment of people in power who believe that curbing these emissions will hurt the economy and they will fight that un-til the polar ice is flowing as salty H2O. It is sad enough that Canada is the only country to abandon the Kyoto Accord, but mainly because other nations regard us as uncaring and grasp-ing, a nation of political opportunists.

It bothers me that our national image is in the hands of cynical people with few ideals. This is the way we appear to the world, and if there is any climate change it is accompanied by the change in political climate. We have lost quite a bit of political capital, as well as some inter-national respect.

St.Thomas/Elgin

editorialpageTerry Carroll

Melissa Schneider

Ric Wellwood

Delivered to over 30,000 addresses - WEEKLY6 November 22, 2012 - St. Thomas/Elgin Weekly News www.theweeklynews.ca

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

Terry Carroll - General Manager: [email protected] [Ext. 25]Heather Morgan - Circulation: [email protected] [Ext. 33]Melissa Schneider - Reporter: [email protected] [Ext. 26]Linda Axelson - Sales: [email protected] [Ext. 27]

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editorialpageSt.Thomas/Elgin

Terry Carroll

Candy landThe Weekly News and Elgin

This Month had a float in the St.Thomas Santa Claus Parade lastSaturday. I’d like to thank every-

one who helped out with the concept, construc-tion and volunteering – with special mention ofChris Heil, Cathie McMonagle and MelissaSchneider, plus Melissa’s dad Eric and her brotherAndreas. My main roles were to do what I amgood at, namely, coffee runs and buying suppliesas needed. (Me trying to decorate has somethingin common with a rhino trying to keyboard).

One downside to being in the parade rather thanwatching the parade (some kind of spectacle,rather than spectator) is that you don’t get to seeall the floats. We did see several floats as theywere lining up. And, I must say, there were somepretty fantastic efforts with plenty of glitter, themeand Christmas spirit.

The St. Thomas Optimists deserve an award fortheir success in pulling off this procession of

pageantry, with the cooperation of the City.Now that the last float “with the real Santa

Claus” (to quote my four-year-old grandson) hasdrifted by, shall we return to this year’s candyban?

First, and you’ll never get the name from me, letme mention the minor Yuletide hoodlum, spotteddiscreetly passing out candy canes from the pa-rade itself. Next, may I indulge in a favourite St.Thomas pastimes – unconfirmed rumours – andpass along the news that certain Robin Hoodswere operating the sidewalks giving out candieswith a slogan along the lines of “No parade candy– no parade.”

My lovely wife Nancy made the observation that,without candy, children stay focused on the pa-rade, rather than scrambling for sweets, andadults aren’t distracted by the scrambling.

This leads me to a solution – volunteers whogive out candy from one float and one float only,from the “real Santa” float, the next-to-last floatof the parade. The last float would be hosted by alocal cleaning company, promoting its serviceswhile cleaning the streets.

Eureka – a candy solution for all!

Community Snapshot

Perfect postersSt. Thomas Community Christian School Remembrance Day poster contest winners are, from left: Riley Noordam,1st, black and white poster, Savannah Koopman, 1st, black and white poster, Brooke Pennings, 2nd, colour posterand Hollie De Boer, 2nd, black and white and colour poster. First place winners will move on to the next round. TheRoyal Canadian Legion runs the event.

Ric Wellwood

Let the affairs continue

This year marked losses for anumber of people in high places.

Mitt Romney lost the Presidency; Lance Arm-strong lost his reputation and his sponsors, aswell as six Tour de France championships. Thenthere’s David Petreus, military hero and eventualhead of the CIA, who has just lost his job becauseof fears for national security. An FBI investigationproved there is no security breach, but a senseof honour instilled in a long military careerprompted him to resign over a love affair. Whenyou are in the public eye, there are extra degreesof responsibility and the obligation to set a goodexample.

Since I am in the public eye and have been fordecades, I guess it’s time that I come clean aboutmy four love affairs, all conducted while marriedto my wife of 24 years. They were with both

sexes, a situation that arises more frequentlythan decent people would know. Still, I can’t helpbut smile when Emilie pokes her head above thecovers, gives me a knowing look and snugglesin against my chest.

My eldest male love is chronically ill and hasliver and kidney problems. He is prone to drink-ing a lot and sometimes his body seems to belosing a lot of weight, but my commitment to himis life-long and his medical bills are not breakingthe bank. The affair continues. Ben and Williamare my younger loves, filled with energy and con-tinually keeping me young. William’s exuberanceand Ben’s patience could set an example forlovers everywhere. No matter their diverse per-sonalities, they are all good in bed and frankly,they are almost more than I can handle. The ideaof a fifth affair is out of the question, though mylovely wife will still feed them and occasionallyhelp me clean the litterbox. We are also lucky tohave Susan McNabb, probably the best vet in theregion. The affairs will continue and I refuse toresign, Petreus or not.

Melissa Schneider

The new noteAs a kid, it was always a big

deal when my mom or dad gaveme some money to spend. I rel-

ished the feel of the money, the smell and howmuch I could buy with this one piece of paper.

Enter the new plastic money. It’s hard to count, feels like the slightest breeze

could pluck it from your fingers, and if you leavea bill in your pocket in the dryer, all you will haveleft is a small hard ball of plastic the bank won’texchange — even though they will tell you thebill has undergone extensive heat testing.

And now here we are, unveiling the new 20-dollar bill. Great. By the end of 2013 we’re sup-posed to get new tens and fives. Even better.

I’m not against money, I’m just against a billthat needs to be counted five times just to makesure you’re depositing the right amount.

So why the switch from paper to plastic? Is itcheaper? Will it last longer? Is it better for ourhealth? Is it better for the environment?

The first paper money issued in Canada wasbetween 1813-1815. In 1935 the Bank ofCanada was founded. Notes were issued in thesum of $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $500and $1,000. New series were introduced in 1937,1954, 1970, 1986 and 2001.

The new $100 bill, now made of polymer sub-strate, began circulating in November 2011. InMarch 2012, the new $50 began circulating.Now we have the new $20 and soon we’ll com-plete the set with the new $10 and $5 ($500and $1,000 notes were discontinued).

Our American neighbours already refer to ourmoney as Monopoly money because each billhas its own bright colour. I wonder what they’llcall our money now that they need to count it afew times to make sure they’re paying the rightamount.

Yes, the new money will still buy you things,and I guess at the end of the day that’s what’smost important, but for now excuse me, please,while I try to figure out how many bills I have inmy hand.

Bright lightsThis year’s Holiday Fantasy of Lights at Pinafore Park in St. Thomas features more than 100 displays. Event Chairman Ross Whalls, along with Lorri and Leanne Quip, who are working the refreshment booth, were on hand for the grand opening on Saturday, December 1, 2012. Entertainment is pro-vided in the Main Pavilion on weekends from 6:30pm - 9:30pm. Hot chocolate, coffee and popcorn are available at the refreshment booth. On weekends the people mover will take your family through the light displays. A free will donation is accepted at the gate. (photo by Tracie Boudreau)

Community Snapshot

“I wouldn’t let someone’s idiocy affect donating to the kids, but they need to check their employ-ees better. “

What happenedFormer executive director for the Salva-

tion Army’s north Toronto warehouse David Rennie, 51, has been charged with theft after $2 million worth of toys and cash dis-appeared over a period of 24 months. Even though most of the toys have now been recovered, will it affect your willingness to donate this year?

“As long as he’s not there I will still donate. I just think they need better background checks.”

“No. I’m still going to donate because he’s been arrested and there’s never been a problem before. “

“No. Because it happened in a different area and it’s for the kids. ”

Ven ZovkoSt.Thomas

Jessica RoacheSt. Thomas

Racheal LarsonSt. Thomas

Samantha Haskell- StewartSt. Thomas

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Did you know?

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400 Talbot St., St. ThomasP: 519.631.5470

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A Grand Miracleby Ric Wellwood

Maybe the toughest job the Grand’s Artistic Director faces in any season would be finding a Christmas show. There are not that many, and one would hope it mirrors the season effectively. Susan Ferley found the musi-cal version of Miracle on 34th Street and decided to direct it herself, with good results. The show is bright and lively, thanks to a good set design by Bill Lay-ton and costumes by Shawn Kerwin that run from elegant to comic.

Meredith Willson wrote the book, music and lyrics in 1963, except for the only memorable song, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” which he wrote ten years earlier and folded into the musical that was adapted from a Hollywood film. There is a belief that Willson was staying at a hotel in Yar-mouth, Nova Scotia when he wrote it. The show is well-di-rected and has solid choreogra-phy by Kerry Gage. The music royalties of this show belong to Sir Paul McCartney.

The part of Kris Kringle is played with wonderful cred-ibility by Brian McKay, and the love interests are delivered with

strong performance in both mu-sic and acting by Blythe Wilson and Matthew Cassidy. The sup-porting cast includes great dou-bling by Keeley Hutton and two comic performances by James Kall as an eccentric clerk and Jonathan Ellul as a looney psy-chiatrist.

Of particular quality are the performances of three young actors. Hillary Harkes is Susan, the little girl who doubts that Santa exists, while Anna Bartlam and Katherine Gray are believers who deliver stylish performanc-es. They are balanced nicely by their parents, played by Lindsey

Frazier and Mark Harapiak. I should tell you that if you are

interested, get your tickets fast, because the boss at the Grand says that, unlike prior Christmas shows, this one will not be held over. They believe that Santa has a best before date of De-cember 30th.

Houses like this one at 192 Balaclava Street are popping up all over St. Thomas as residents deco-rate their homes for Christmas. To take your own small Christmas tour of lights, houses are nicely decorated on Redan Street, Alma Street and Kains Street.

‘Tis the season

Thanks to everyone who entered! Turn to page 10 for the winning entries.

Page 8: December 6, 2012 Issue

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8Kettle Creek dredging

Council received correspon-dence from the Kanagio Yacht Club requesting financial as-sistance with dredging in Kettle Creek North of the King George VI Lift Bridge. The club claims that the waterway is impassible and unsafe. Deputy Mayor Da-vid Marr commented that flood-ing in this area is also a con-cern and pointed out that there might be a grant that could be applied for to offset the cost.

Mayor Walters, Dan McNeil, and David Marr will be facilitat-ing a meeting in the upcoming weeks to discuss the necessity of dredging.

Funding for sewer expansion?Council received an update on

Ontario’s Municipal Infrastruc-ture Strategy from Minister Bob Chiarelli. The report announced that “over $60 million over the next three years is being made available to municipali-ties through our new funding

program, the Municipal Infrastructure Investment Initiative,” intended to help address critical road, bridge, water, and waste-water projects. No word yet on whether the East

Sewer Expansion qualifies for funding.

Elgin County official plan modifications

Council passed a resolution supporting the Official Plan of Elgin County with the following modification: The area known as the ‘employment area’ between the Eastern edge of St. Thomas and the St. Thomas Airport be zoned as a special policy area and not as agricultural as it is listed in Elgin County’s Plan, cit-ing that with the zoning change and the proposed sewer expan-sion the area will be “effectively positioned” for future develop-ment for potential employment opportunities.

Fire Chief explains budget overage

Council heard an update from Fire Chief Don Crocker regard-ing an overage in the Fire De-partment’s advertising budget. The chief explained that at the time “we were dealing with a number of grassfires so we decided that running the ad-vertising campaign to educate citizens about the risks was cheaper than sending out a truck each time.

We still had some grassfires, but certainly not as many as we were getting before that adver-tising went out,” which was a much more cost-effective strat-egy.

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Central Elgin Briefs

by Heather Derks

Show me the moneySenior students and parents filled the cafeteria Thursday night as the Parent Student Coun-cil of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School held a

University/College Information night. Grade 12 Student Kelsey Ruessink ponders brochures, while her parents Brian and Lori look on, with dad clutching his wallet pondering the cost.

(photo by Brian Wilsdon)

Page 9: December 6, 2012 Issue

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Distracted driving

Ontario laws make it illegal for drivers to talk, text, type, dial or email using hand-held cell phones and other hand-held communica-tions and entertainment devices. The law also prohibits drivers from viewing display screens unrelated to the driving task, such as laptops or DVD players, while driving. The use of hands-free devices is still permitted, and drivers may use hand-held devices to call 9-1-1. Actions such as dialing or scroll-ing through contacts, or manually programming a GPS device, for example, are not allowed.

Ontario’s ban on hand-held de-vices while driving took effect on October 26, 2009.

Many drivers today tend to view driving, especially in familiar en-vironments, as a simple everyday task that requires minimal atten-tion. In fact, driving is a complex task that requires your full atten-tion every time you get behind the wheel.

The dangers of distracted driving are real and the evidence speaks for itself:  drivers who use cell phones are four times more likely to be in a collision than a driver who is focused on the road. Cell phones and other wireless com-munication and entertainment de-vices are a significant visual and cognitive distraction for drivers, with average “eyes off the road” times that increase the risk of collision considerably. At highway speed, a driver sending a simple text message travels the length of a football field without looking at the road.

‘Hands-free’ use means that apart from activating or deactivat-ing the device, it is not held during use and the driver is not physically interacting with or manipulating it. Source: Ontario Ministry of Transportation

The dangers of distracted driving are real and the

evidence speaks for itself

Karen Peters and volunteer El Boudreau show off seven six-week old kittens that were left on the doorstep of Pets/Friends for Life on Monday, December 3, 2012. A concerned resident on Burwell Road dropped off the kittens. Each kitten will be placed for adoption as soon as they’re old enough to go home. Anyone interested in adopting one can call 519-631-5757.

Amnesty International’s Write for Rights event on Human Rights Day is all about pro-tecting others. On December 10, 2012 you can join in. You can help shine a light on hu-man rights. Around the world,

many people’s human rights are subject to harassment or even imprisonment. In some cases, their lives are at stake. Get involved through www.write-athon.ca, on Facebook or call toll-free 1-800-Amnesty.

Write a letter and keep someone out of danger

Page 10: December 6, 2012 Issue

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The Corporation of the Municipality of

2013 Garbage Bag Tags Now Available Your 2013 Garbage Bag Tags are NOW AVAILABLE for pick up in the Central Elgin Municipal Offices in the Elgin County Administration Building, 450 Sunset Drive during normal office hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Proof of residency is required to pick up your garbage tags. If you are a tenant and wish to pick up tags for the property you rent, a letter from your landlord is required. Persons unable to pick up their tags can authorize in writing a friend, neighbour or family member to pick up their tags. Farmers must provide proof of a valid Farm Business Registration number to obtain additional tags.

WATCH THE ROAD

Deer Create Hazardous Driving Conditions Drivers are encouraged to be extra cautious at this time of year. This is the busiest time of

year in Elgin County for automobile-deer collisions due to the deer fall mating and migration

season. Most collisions occur before sunrise and after sunset due to increased traffic, poor

visibility and deer movement patterns. To reduce your chances of a collision:

• Slow down and drive with caution when you see a yellow deer crossing sign. These signs

indicate a high risk area.

• Use high beams at night where possible and watch for the reflective glow of the eyes of an

animal.

Never swerve suddenly to avoid a deer or other animal as you could lose control of your

vehicle.

Notice of Proposed By-law to Close and Sell Part of Edgeware Rd “McBain Line”TAKE NOTICE that the Council of The Corporation of the Municipality of Central Elgin intends

to pass a by-law to close and sell part of Edgeware Road “McBain Line”. The parts of the road

allowance to be closed are more particularly described as Parts 1, 6, 7 and 8, Reference Plan

11R-9561;

AND TO sell Parts 1, 6 and 7 of the closed road allowance at fair market value;

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that Council has scheduled a meeting for 7:30 pm on

Monday, January 14, 2013 to be held in the Council Chambers of the Elgin County

Administration Building, 450 Sunset Drive, Central Elgin to hear any person, or by his/her

counsel, solicitor or agent, who wishes to make representation respecting the proposed by-

law. The Council shall only hold such hearing for applications received by the Chief

Administrative Officer/Clerk on or before Thursday, January 10, 2012.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION relating to the proposed by-law is available for inspection in

the Central Elgin Municipal Office, Elgin County Administration Building, 450 Sunset Drive,

during normal office hours, Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays, from 8:30 am to

4:30 pm.

DATED at the Municipality of Central Elgin this 20th day of November, 2012.

Donald N. Leitch, Chief Administrative Officer & Clerk

Municipality of Central Elgin, 450 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, ON N5R 5V1

Yes We CanTo all those schools and businesses that participated

in the first ever Yes We Can event, a large thank-you from us here at The Weekly News. You have helped your community and, we hope, had some fun in the process. The decision was a hard one, considering all entries were well thought-out and each sculpture was

a treat on the eyes. The Yes We Can committee had a tough time deciding on the top three. Congratulations to our first place winners, from Locke’s Public School, with their ingenious Locke’s Lion design. Second place goes to The Milestones Children’s Centre with their Santa’s sleigh design and third place goes to The Art Emporium’s elephant.

Page 11: December 6, 2012 Issue

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• Mutual Funds• GICs• Investment Advice• Insurance*

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St.Thomas/Elgin

1. Active Abundance — Toboggan with riders. 2. Dynamical Medical Services — Christmas tree.3. Elgin Mall — Christmas tree.4. Community Living Elgin – Replica of St. Thomas City Hall. 5. Jennifer Price’s Grade 6 class at Dunwich-Dutton Public School — Christmas tree. 6. The St. Thomas/Elgin Weekly News — A can train7. The VON — A Christmas tree.(Photos are not numbered in any specific order)

1

4

2

5

6

3

7

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288 Bridge Street, Port Stanley 519-782-3805 or 519-619-9476 [email protected] www.stanportleys.com

Stan Portleys- London 240 Richmond Street, London, Ont.

Coming January 4th,

2013

Stan Portleys- The Barn Home Studio45672 Roberts Line, Sparta, Ont.

Coming Spring of

2013

There’s excitement, and much that is new to celebrate at Stan Portley’s in Port Stanley.The store that has an established

reputation for unique gift and home décor items, and “our painted fur-niture,” is now offering the unique-ly Canadian van Gogh Chalk Paint collection. It’s a made-in-Canada version of the paint that’s making vintage furniture lovers ecstatic about the look they are now able to achieve.Not only is the van

Gogh line the only Canadian-made chalk paint offered in this area, it has no nasty toxins that may come in paints made with oil or chemical sol-vents. It’s eco-friendly and involves no waxy chemicals. At Stan Portley’s, they can co-lour match any colour of paint with the van Gogh Chalk Paint and are creating four signature colours that will be unique to Stan Portleys.To assist people with this great

furniture paint, classes will be starting in January at the Port Stan-ley store and the new London store. Out at “The Barn” Home Studio in Sparta classes will be starting in the spring of 2013. Business own-er Bobbie Robinson says, “Some people are hesitant to try crafts like this because they think it may be

too difficult for them, but it turns out it is not as difficult as they thought.”It’s been quite a journey since

2003 when Stan Portleys – An-tiques & Uniques was born in the back of a store, just down from its present location in Port Stan-ley. “At the time we dealt with an-tiques, vintage linens and silver, and a small amount of new gift-ware,” Bobbie says. Some of the

most sought after gift items are the custom wood or metal signs which are made in North America and shipped from the store to places as far as Australia, New Zealand and even China.Bobbie points out that, “Many

homes and cottages throughout the area have one, two, three or more pieces of our painted furni-ture incorporated into their interior design. We have even shipped to the eastern seaboard of the United States. Whether it be Urbane Chic,

Paris Apartment or Cottage Style, we have met the needs of the dis-criminating home owner.”Having fewer antiques and mov-

ing towards the future, the store owners are still looking for those ‘unique’ Canadian and North American items which will bring a home together.The all-Canadan van Gogh chalk

paint collection really fits this trend. Bobbie recommends, “Be

kinder to the environ-ment by “adopting heirloom furnishings. The antique look is all about the discovery of ourselves through one time to another – and the delight in that rec-ognition. Relive, rede-sign, relove.”The store’s signs and

graphics have recently changed from Stan

Portleys – Antiques & Uniques to the new Stan Portleys – Timeless & Unique.“This is in line with other things

which are happening with our business,” Bobbie says. “And just as a teaser for you . . . watch for the opening of our new location on Richmond in London.”Bobbie Robinson, Owner, Stan

Portleys – Timeless & Unique, sums it up well: “Stan Portleys and Port Stanley, we are timeless and unique. Stay tuned . . .”

Now with the van Gogh chalk paint collection

“Stan Portley’s – Timeless & Unique” and uniquely Canadian

Here is Bobbie reaching for an-other can of Canadian owned and Canadian made van Gogh Chalk Paint Collection paint for another project.

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EntEr your pEt today!the most festive Cat and dog will be

chosen and each will win a gift basket full of treats and toys.

Winners will be announced december 23rd.to Enter :• drop off the picture at our hospital before dec 20th, 2011• Email it to: [email protected]• post it on our facebook page www www.facebook.com/ elginanimalhospital

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This is not all there isDo you

know why I think there is an empty hole deep within every human being?  Do you know why I think human beings are

destined for something more?  One sign of that emptiness is this — I’ve talked to hundreds of people over my life, from people that are dying to people going through various trag-edies.  I’ve buried babies.  I’ve helped families whose 12 year-old son, with the help of friends, made a Molotov cocktail, only to have the thing blow up while he was throwing it.  It exploded

behind his head leaving his back severely burned.  Here is the sign of emptiness — no one has ever said something like this to me, “Aren’t you glad this is all there is?”

A 35 year-old man told me this story.  When he was a 12 year-old boy his father decided he took too long in the bathtub.   The father blew his lid and hit his son’s leg with a broom han-dle.  The boy’s leg was broken and required medical attention.  The 35 year-old man didn’t look at me and say, ‘Aren’t you glad this is all there is?’

There are too many hurts, too many injustices and too many unanswered questions.  I believe that deep inside the human soul there is an empty space.  That empty space prompts humans to say, ‘Aren’t

you glad this is not all there is.’  Let me suggest two things

that spawn from my belief.  First, because this is not all there is, it probably is appro-priate to make some prepara-

tion for what’s next.  Second, because this is not all there is, how can we expect the tempo-rariness of this life to actually bring deep satisfaction?  And that is something to think about.

by Mark Wales, OFA presidentAs the largest of the prov-

ince’s three general farm or-ganizations (GFOs), the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) takes its job of speaking for farmers seriously. But in May 2012, the OFA, along with the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario (CFFO) and the National Farmers Union of Ontario (NFU) found themselves up against a significant roadblock. After completing a routine application process under the Farm Regis-tration and Farm Organizations Funding Act, 1993, all three of Ontario’s GFOs were denied ac-creditation by the OMAFRA Ap-peals Tribunal.

  Traditionally, when Ontario farmers complete the farm business registration (FBR) pro-cess – to qualify farmers for farm business tax designation

– they also submit an applica-tion fee of $195. At that time they are invited to check a box beside one of the three GFOs, which, until recently, has meant that applicant became a mem-ber of the selected organization that does important work on behalf of Ontario farmers.

  In May 2012, the routine accreditation process was dis-rupted when all three GFOs were denied accreditation. That means farm businesses that registered after the May 31 deadline did not initially receive FBR numbers from their GFO of choice – and the funds paid during the process were not re-directed to their selected GFO.   

The main problem, the Tri-bunal decided, was the lack of explicit agreement conditions applied to “membership” in the OFA. And, as the accreditation

criteria referred to member-ship practices that dated back to 2011, GFOs were unable to become accredited under the existing 13 regulatory criteria.

In November 2012, Agricul-ture Minister Ted McMeekin recognized the dilemma and took measures to enable On-tario’s GFOs to become accred-ited. The criteria for accredita-tion have been reduced from 13 to five. Since OFA has already been approved on each of the remaining five points in the pre-vious two Tribunal hearings on accreditation, we anticipate no problems this time around. This regulatory amendment is only in effect for one year. We will, of course, begin work on how we assign membership in the future to ensure we qualify for accreditation when it is time to reapply.

The process has been a long and tiresome one for OFA, and

we are anxious to get back to designating more of our staff and director resources where they are needed most: work-ing for farmers. Consequently, a portion of those resources will be dedicated to working with OMAFRA and Agricorp in prepa-ration for the 2013 farm busi-ness registration process that should commence in January, as usual.

OFA thanks the Minister and his staff for recognizing the le-gal dilemma that has prevented us from being accredited and then taking bold action to en-able accreditation. We would also like to thank our staff, di-rectors and members who have expressed their concern over this process, and have asked what they could do to help.

The OFA looks forward to continuing its important work as the voice of Ontario farmers.

OFA is moving forward

Something to Think About by Pastor Cusick

Come and Cheer on

Your Stars!

Sunday, December 9, 2012

St. Marys Lincolns vs.

Stars @ 7:00pmAdults $9 • Seniors & Students $7.00

Kids (6-12) $5.00 (Under 5: Free)Ticket details: stthomasstars.pointstreaksites.com/view/stthomasstars

EXCITING JR. B HOCKEY AT ITS BEST!

Law of logical argument - Anything is possible IF you don’t know what

you are talking about.

The annual Dickens Day Twilight parade was held Friday, No-vember 30, 2012 in Port Stanley, to the delight of the crowds lined up downtown. Father Christmas was the parade’s highlight, and was available for photographs Saturday and Sunday in the old Town Hall building. (photo by April Laroche)

Annual delight

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750 Talbot Street, Unit 202, St.Thomas (CASO Station)

Phone: 519-637-3034 or email: [email protected]

www.serenityhousehospice.ca

Please remember our cause so we can continue to assist families in your

community who need our services

“Empowering families through life threatening illness”

7 First Ave., St. Thomas 519-633-7300

Thank you to all our volunteers and to the community for your generous donations!

The Bible League of Canada is a Christian charity which provides Scripture placement, children’s ministry, and church planting training worldwide so that people prepared by the Holy Spirit will be brought into the fellowship of Christ and His church.

St. Thomas Public Library

Whether you need a book about a puzzling mystery, An-cient Egypt, or a princess for your “little princess,” the St. Thomas Public Library is here to help. We’ve reconnected families separated by an ocean, helped travelers learn a new language and lent travel guides filled with new places to uncov-er. We’ll help you discover new technology  and ride the infor-mation highway to new desti-nations. Explore all the library’s resources that include bestsell-ing e-books, classic books on CD, family favourites on DVD, or use our assistive equipment to read new favourites. All of these services are free for local residents. During this season of giving, consider helping gen-erations of library users by do-

nating to the St. Thomas Public Library. Please don’t delay. Your support is always needed and appreciated!

Bibles for Missions (BFM)

Volunteering is a healthy way to “give back” our time, which is one of the most valuable re-sources we can give especially in today’s fast-paced society. Most people volunteer with the intention of making an im-pact on others, but in fact they themselves are the ones who are most impacted by their ser-vice. Among the many benefits of volunteering is better health through activity, the acquisition of new skills, social interaction with other people, and most of all, the ability to have fun while making a difference.

The volunteers that make up BFM are the true driving force behind its success.

Why United Way?United Way Elgin-St. Thomas

is not just about fundraising and allocating money to agencies across Elgin County. We are an impact organization. Through partnerships, research, and community involvement, we focus on areas in our commu-nity that need help the most. We look for the underlying solutions to some of our community’s most pressing issues and help support programs and commit-tees that work to create posi-tive, lasting change. Our new impact areas are: From poverty to possibility; Healthy people, strong communities; and all that kids can be. We strive to deliver positive messages for a positive outlook on our com-munity.

All Breed Canine Rescue

All Breed Canine Rescue (ABCR) is a volunteer animal rescue organization. We work with Animal Services in St. Thomas and London. We take in sick and abandoned shelter dogs. Who would throw kittens out of moving cars, or leave a 5 week-old puppy in a cardboard

box at the side of the highway? We see these cases far too fre-quently. We need your help. Be a foster home, adopt an ABCR dog or cat, or send in a financial gift to help provide vet care for these wonderful animals. You can visit us online at www.all-breedcaninerescue.petfinder.com. Thank you.

Solace for life threatening illness

Serenity House resource cen-tre offers programs to individu-als and their families from the moment of diagnosis of any life threatening illness. We also offer a resource centre that is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm and has a library full of books and information on different diseases.

With help from generous do-nations from our community, we are able to offer our pro-grams at no cost to the clients.

Programs include Grief or Peer Support Groups, Pamper Days for the Caregiver, Reiki, Meditation, Reflexology, or one-to-one support.

Call 519-637-3034 for more program information or for up-coming events or visit www.serenityhousehospice.ca.

St. ThomasPublic Library

YES! I want help St. Thomas Public Library.Name:

Phone #

Address:

I am giving a gift of: (please check one) $35 $50 $100 Other:

Payment method:For Staff Use - Initials: Date Received:

St. Thomas Public Library would like to thank all of our past donors for their generosity. During this season of giving, we’re asking that you consider helping generations of library users by donating. Please don’t delay - your help is always needed! Fill out this form and return it to St. Thomas Public Library, 153 Curtis Street.The choice is yours! Cash, Debit, Visa, and Cheque donations are welcome. Tax receipts are issued to donations of $10 or more.

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Give a gift that will create positive, lasting change for families in your community.

Give the gift of United Way!The perfect way to celebrate those in your life who are hard to buy for, don't need anything, or make their own wonderful contribution in your life. Make a donation to United Way Elgin-St.Thomas in the name of a loved one, co-worker, or friend and they will receive a card that outlines your gift.

Give a gift that makes a difference!519-631-3171 or [email protected]

On behalf of all the families whose lives have changed because of you, thank you and Happy Holidays!

[email protected] (online giving)

On behalf of the thousands of patients who benefit from your generosity throughout

the year, thank you for supporting the work of the

St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation.

All Breed Canine Rescue saved 44 dogs (and many cats & kittens) from The St. Thomas City Pound this year, plus many from ditches and puppymills. Without us,

the pound dogs would not get treated for heartworm, tumours, bad teeth, ear and eye infections, parvo

virus, broken bones, bladder stones, and more.

The dogs need your help. Without community support, All

Breed Canine Rescue will not be able to continue our work at the pound.

Animals will suffer.

Dogs are our best friends,but sometimes they need help

Donate to Our Vet Fund Today

Mail to: All Breed Canine Rescue, 229 Sunset Drive, St. Thomas, Ont. N5R 3C2

.....or Beaver Creek Animal Hospital, 7477 Sunset Rd, St. Thomas, Ont. N5P 3S8

Cheques should be made out to ABCR. Credit card and Paypal also accepted. No tax receipts will be issued.

Donation FormName: ............................................................................................

Address: .........................................................................................

Phone#: ............................................ Donation Amount $ ..............

These dogs have a lot of love to give and they need your

support today.

These dogs have a lot of love to give and they need your

support today. Consider sponsoring a shelter dog in the name of a friend or family member or in memory

of a beloved pet.

See all our animals in need:www.allbreedcaninerescue.petfinder.com

Or call:

519-633-6226Visit us on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/2506221007/

This message brought in part by:Beaver Creek Animal Hospital

519-637-0966Providing Emergency Vet Care

24 hours, 7 days a weekAnd K-9 Concepts, Dog Training

& Boarding 519-631-9100

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St.Thomas/Elgin

The Weekly News will publish:December 24, 2012

and January 3, 2013Thanks to our advertisers, readers and insert customers

for your patronage over the past year

Don’t forget to book your Christmas Greeting Ads for our December 20 issue! Deadline: December 14. Call 519-633-1640 today!

Show kids how to care this holiday season

Parents can plant seeds of compassion dur-ing the holidays by letting their children care for others. This time of year there are many ways to nurture empathy.

There are three simple steps to empowering children with the sense that they can help oth-ers and make a difference in the world:

• Let them chose how they will help.• Explain to them how they are assisting oth-

ers, and that their actions have a powerful ef-fect.

• Praise them for the wonderful difference they are making

Have kids take part in holiday planning. A par-ent hosting a party can ask a child how to make it more enjoyable for the guests, and help the child make the idea come to life. Creative ideas can include crafts, personalized place settings or games that they think guests will enjoy. This encourages kids to think about other people, and builds their confidence as they take on a fun responsibility.

Generosity is a value that can be nurtured and it will give children a deeper understand-ing of how they can make a difference in the world. A unique way to introduce them to char-

ity is World Vision Gifts online at www.worldvi-sion.ca/gifts. On the site, select from a broad choice of practical donations that will create a long-term, sustainable difference for a child or community. This family-friendly option is a great way to expose children to issues that kids of a similar age face around the world.

This is also the time of year when charities are looking for spare change – stores and malls will have a variety of buckets for donations. Children get a tremendous sense of accom-plishment knowing that nickels and dimes from their own piggy banks are helping other people. Let them choose the charity, and watch their satisfaction when their own coins are dumped in.

Many families make it a point to get involved in the community around the holidays. For ex-ample, families can visit a local homeless shel-ter, stop by a retirement home, donate food to a local food bank, or serve up a hot meal at a soup kitchen.

— www.newscanada.com

Set up a giving-jar in your home to help others

Families can change the world this holiday season, one coin at a time. By setting up a giving-jar at a central location in the house, all your spare change will add up to help an important cause. This trend has been around for a while, but in recent years it has become increasingly popular with families across Can-ada.

Choosing a causeThere are many charities and organizations

that need help at this time of year. A family can decide on a cause together, perhaps a char-ity that is close to its heart and means some-thing special. For ideas, take a look at World Vision Gifts online at www.worldvision.ca/gifts. The organization has many practical options that provide relief for children in developing countries — and each one offers long-term, sustainable change. The giving-jar can be decorated in many creative ways and is even more fun and meaningful if it reflects the cause being supported.

Feed the jarThe second step is remembering to add to

the jar when possible; even if it is just the spare change left in a pocket or change purse. Small children can add a portion of their allowance, coins they find on the sidewalk, or change that might be hiding under couch cushions. Every penny adds up to make a difference to some-one’s life.

Making a differenceSome parents who have long embraced

an annual giving-jar are seeing the effects of teaching generosity to their children. The parents of Erin Farrar, 23, started a giving-jar tradition when she was younger. “During the holidays my family likes to feel that we’re do-ing more than just splurging on each other, especially if we can make a real difference in someone’s life,” says Erin. She has since become an active volunteer, and is currently working in the non-profit sector.

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Kathy has been with T-Zone for two years and has become an expert in Whole Body Vibration.Her knowledge and resources for this technology has given her the opportunity to help manypeople achieve great results. Her passion and love for T-Zone Vibration speaks volumes andher positive outlook on life creates a welcoming atmosphere at her studio. Kathy has a strongdesire to help others achieve their ultimate health and fitness goals. Kathy can help youtransform your health and fitness in just a few minutes a day, it’s fast, easy and fun. She hasexpertise in working with people of all fitness levels.

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Port Stanley Public Library, 302 Bridge Street, features work of Guild artists Kim Hughson and Sine Maule through De-cember. Call 519-782-7472 for hours.

Arthur Voaden Christmas Con-cert.   Featuring Gui-tar Ensemble and Jazz Band.   Thurs-day, December 6, 7pm. Arthur Voaden Auditorium. Tick-ets $5 at the door.

Thursday, De-cember 6, Euchre Games & Dessert, 2pm at St. Andrew’s United Church, 60 West Ave. Every-one Welcome. For info 519-631-4558.

Elgin Theatre Guild presents “Cinderella the Pantomime”. De-cember 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 at 7:30pm & December 9 & 16 at 2:00pm. Tickets $15. 40 Princess Avenue.

Christmas Turkey Chip Bingo, MCP in Spring-field, Friday, Decem-ber 7, 7pm. Never play the same pattern twice.  Over 50 priz-es. Corner Cupboard game with a donation.

Field Naturalist Meet-ing, Friday Dec. 7, 7:30pm, Knox Church, St. Thomas. Speaker Greg Balch on South-ern Ontario Wildlife. Info 519-631-5279.

Turkey and Ham Raffle, Centennial Sports Club, 41 Jo-nas Street, Satur-day, December 8, 1-6pm. All Welcome.

Sunday, Dec. 9, 9am-1pm, the Lions serve

a full breakfast, all you can eat, $6 in the Lions Den behind the Dutton Dunwich Community Centre.

Ham & Turkey Bingo, Sunday, Dec. 9. Doors open 12:30pm. St. Thomas Legion, Br. 41. 24 John St. Ev-eryone welcome.

Holiday Concert, St. Thomas Youth Choir and St. Thomas Chil-dren’s Choir sing songs of the season. Dec. 9, 3pm, St. An-drew’s United Church, 60 West Ave. Freewill offering. All welcome.

Carols by Candlelight, Sunday, Dec. 9, 7pm. Central United Church , 135 Wellington, Carol Singing, Spe-cial Music by choirs. Freewill donation-Caring Cupboard  & Community Dinner.

Parkinson Support Group, Meeting Tues-

day Dec. 11, 2-4pm., Knights of Columbus, 265 Wellington St. Info 519-631-9313.

All ladies are in-vited to Perkday, Tuesday, December 11, 10am, Fellow-ship Church.   Spe-cial guest Stepha-nie from Heritage Gardens.   Info 519-637-0283.

Seniors Christmas Dinner, Wednes-day, December 12, 11:30am-approx. 2pm, Dutton Dun-wich Community Centre. For advanced sale tickets contact Lion Dianne Purcell at 519-762-3341.

Circle of Moms play-group with the Ontario Early Years Centre for preschoolers and their caregivers.   Wed, Dec 12, 9:30-11:30am, Talbot-ville United Church. Info 519-633-7325.

Wednesday, Decem-ber 12, Bible Ques-tions, 10:30am at St. Andrew’s United Church, everyone is welcome. For info 519-631-4558.

Faith Christian Academy presents a children’s musi-cal drama, Your Re-deemer Has Come, 345 Fairview Ave, December 13, 7pm.

No tickets needed, free-will offering.

Thursday, Decem-ber 13, Kickers, 6pm, St. Andrew’s United Church , mid week group ages 5- 13 , games mu-sic craft. Everyone welcome. For more info 519-631-4558.

Dec. 14, Beef Supper, Odd Fellows & Re-bekahs Hall, 54 Moore St. Doors open 4pm, serving 5-7pm. Adult $10, child 6-12 $5, under 5 free. Tickets at door, eat in/take out. 519-631-3494.

Fellowship Church presents “Merry Christmas?” in sup-port of Talbot Teen Centre. Dec 14, 7pm, Dec 15, 4pm, Talbot Teen Centre. Dec 16, 11am, Fel-lowship church. 519-633-3623.

Friday, December 14, Meal & Movie “Christmas Dog”, 5:30pm. RSVP at St. Andrew’s United Church, 60 West Ave, everyone welcome. 519-631-4558.

5th Annual Celtic Christmas with “The Sheridan Band”. Sat-

urday, December 15, 7:30pm. Central Unit-ed Church, 135 Wel-lington St. $10, call 519-633-6118. All proceeds to charity.

Handel’s Messiah presented by Choral Connection, Satur-day, December 15, 7:30pm at Centre St. Baptist Church.  For more info. please call 519-633-6385.

Port Stanley Commu-nity Choir Christmas Choir, Sunday Decem-ber 16, Port Stanley United Church, 2:30 & 7:30 pm Donations accepted at the door.

VON and Seren-ity House present “A Time to Remember”, December 18 at Knox Church. RSVP to Lynn at Seren-ity House before Dec. 11, 519-637-3034.

Tuesday, December 18, Creating into a Mystery/Prayer Shawl Group, 10:30am at St. Andrew’s United Church 60 West Ave.  For info 519-631-4558.  Every-one is Welcome.

“A Misfits Christmas”, Wednesday, Decem-ber 19, 7pm, Central

United Church. Sing carols  with The Mes-siah’s Misfits (Cen-tral’s Praise Band). Free Will Donations. 519-631-3503.

Thursday, Decem-ber 20, Euchre Games & Dessert, 2pm at St. Andrew’s United Church, 60 West Ave. Every-one Welcome. For info 519-631-4558.

Field Naturalist Box-ing Day Bird Count, Wednesday, Decem-ber 26. Day finishes with potluck dinner at Knox Church , St. Thomas at 5:30pm. 

Info 519-631-7557.

Field Naturalist Walk, Tuesday, January 1, Walk at Fingal Wildlife Manage-ment Area, 34469 Fingal Line. Meet  at the gates at 10am.  Info 519-633-4235.

Field Naturalist Meet-ing, Friday, January 4, 7:30pm, Knox Church, St. Thomas. Presen-tation by members. Info 519-631-5279.

Golden Rescue Wish-bone Lottery, Dinner for two anywhere in the world, includes all expenses, VIA Rail to Quebec City for 2.

Tickets $40 or 3/$100. Draw Jan. 10/13. 519-633-2419.

2013 Walk for Memo-ries, Saturday, Janu-ary 21, 9:30-noon, Parkside Collegiate, inside. Contact the Alzheimer Society Elgin-St. Thomas for pledge sheets, 519-633-4396.

Non-profit groups, send your Community Billboard announce-ments (25 words or less per item by text email, no attach-ments or email/web-sites in ad) to [email protected]

14 St. Catharine St. 519-631-5757

7 First Avenue, St.Thomas519-633-7300

FURNITURE,CLOTHING,

SHOES, HARDWARES,APPLIANCES,

ETC.Donations gratefully

accepted

M-F 9-5, Sat. 9-3

THRIFTSTORES

Adapted, produced and directed byLesley Chapman and Ken Roberts

Thurs.-Sat. Dec. 6, 7, 8 at 7:30 p.m., Sun. Dec. 9 at 2 p.m.Thurs.-Sat. Dec. 13, 14, 15 at 7:30 p.m., Sun. Dec. 16 at 2 p.m.

Elgin Theatre Guild Presents

Princess Avenue Playhouse, St. ThomasTraditional British Panto Family Entertainment

For Reservations and Ticket Inquires call 519-633-8530

From Professionalsyou can Trust!Contact us today

for a free estimate:

637-3542(519)

[email protected]

Call us today!

226-234-6229www.elginrepair.com

PRE-SEASON SPECIAL!$76Only

Grease, oil change, new plug, tire presure, lube all cables,

check belt tension.

Is Your

Ready?Snowblower

Most models

Registered Massage Therapist – Wendy Baker Reiki Master – Laura Dunn

519-207-251718 East St., St. Thomas

www.westendwellness.net

Wellness is theFocus of each

Treatment!WSIB & MVA Welcome

A Christmas Musical by: Joel RaneyPresented by:

The Dexter/ Port Stanley United Church Pastoral Charge and Friends

Let the Whole World Sing

We invite you, family and friends to enjoy our musical service December 9th at 11:15 am held at Port Stanley United Church.

239 Colborne St.

Wednesday Morning Eucharist 10am9:00am (BCP) Holy Communion

10:30am Advent ServiceSongs and Lessons

Father Jawn Kolohon OfficiatingLiz Rae Minister of Music

519-631-7000

Trinity Anglican ChurchThe Church with the Purple Steeple

Knox Presbyterian ChurchHincks Street at Wellington Street

519-631-2414Minister: Rev. Mavis Currie

Organist and Choir Director: Dr. W. D. CarrollDecember 9th, 2012 - 10:30am

Second Sunday of AdventTheme: “The Christmas Song”

Won’t you please join us! We’re celebrating 175 years!COME AND WORSHIP WITH US,

EVERYONE WELCOME

Happy 25th AnniversaryMom & Dad

John & Teresa LunnFrom Courtney, SJ.C. and Emily

Deadline: Monday, December 17, 2012 @ 2:00pmProposal available from Township Office, 35663 Fingal Line, Fingal, ON N0L 1K0, Ph 519-769-2010 Fax 519-769-2837 Attn: Brent Clutterbuck, Drainage [email protected]

TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD

Bowlby-Futcher Drain Branch “A” 2012

TENDER

Whisker TicklesCat Sitting Service

[email protected]

Deadline: Monday, December 17, 2012@ 2:00pm Proposal available from Township Office, 35663 Fingal Line, Fingal, ON N0L 1K0, Ph 519-769-2010 Fax 519-769-2837 Attn: Brent Clutterbuck, Drainage Superintendent [email protected]

TOWNSHIP OF SOUTHWOLD

Third Line – Ferrara Drain 2012

TENDER

Don’t forget to wish your

family, friends and customers A

Merry Christmas and a

Happy New Year!We’ll feature special

pages in our December 20 issue!Call 519-633-1640

today to make sure you don’t miss this

opportunity to send greetings to everyone!

St.Thomas/Elgin

Page 19: December 6, 2012 Issue

19- December 6, 2012 - St. Thom

as - Elgin Weekly New

s Christmas IdeasGET READY FOR CHRISTMAS. Treat someone to something special. Gift Certificates for Mas-sage, Hot Stone or Reflexol-ogy available. Call Aylmer Heal-ing Waters 519-773-8102.

ComputersWILSDON COMPUTER SERVICES - Basic setup, operating system install/upgrade, internet setup/repair, Tune-Up, recommended safety suite, rescue disc, data transfer, data backup. In-Home service available. Call Sara or Ian Wilsdon 519-633-9638.

Dog BoardingIN-HOME DOG BOARDING. Peace of mind by providing lov-ing care in MY HOME while your dog is away from their home. Call Rose 519-633-6637.

FoundLaynard with keys at the cor-ner of Fairview Ave. and Sparta/Union Line. Call 519-782-3301 to ID and claim

Homes for SaleBANK FORECLOSURE PROPER-TIES & DISTRESS SALE HOMES.  Free listings sent to you BE-

FORE they are on the public sys-tem. FreeStThomasInfo.com

Martial ArtsCLASSES STARTING NOVEM-BER 22/12. Mixed Martial Arts and Kickboxing Skills, 315 Talbot Street, Tuesdays 8-9:30pm and Thursdays 6-8pm. Occasional special seminars and clinics and guests (to be announced). Instruc-tor – Sensei Wayne Mifflin. For more information call 519-777-1927 or email: [email protected] or inquire at front desk.

PhotographyGET YOUR CHRISTMAS/HOLIDAY PHOTOS IN TAKEN YOUR HOME. Now also booking Weddings for 2013. Call Tim Harvey at White Pine Photography, 519-775-2591, or [email protected]

Services OfferedALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS – Drinking is your business. Help-ing you to stop is ours. Call 519-633-0430 or Write P.O. Box 220001, St. Thomas, ON N5R 4P5.

THINKING OF HARDWOOD, Unbeat-able prices, expert installation, free estimates. Call Rob Waldroff Cus-tom Carpentry. 519-269-3776.

BURGER, MARGARET E. “MARG” (RENAUD) of Elgin Manor, passed away on Thursday, November 29, 2012 in her 91st year. Mass of the Chris-tian Burial was held December 3, 2012. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

CARR, JOAN of St. Thomas, passed away Friday, No-vember 30, 2012 in her 81st year. A funeral service was held November 4, 2012. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

CLAYTON, EDWARD H. “TED” of St. Thomas, passed away Saturday, December 1,  2012 in his 79th year.  A pri-vate family service will be held.  Sifton Funeral Home.

DOAN, JOHN “WARREN” of St. Thomas, passed away on Sun-day, December 2nd, 2012 in his 78th year. Visitation Decem-ber 7, 2012 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Funeral service will be held December 8, 2012 at 1pm. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

FINLAY, DR. RONALD C. of St. Thomas, passed away Wednes-day, November 28, 2012 in his 85th year.    A private service for the immediate family will be held.  Sifton Funeral Home.

FRISCH, ELIZABETH of Aylmer, passed away Tuesday, No-vember 27, 2012 in her 90th year. A funeral service was held November 30, 2012. H. A. Kebbel Funeral Home.

KRUG, CATHERINE SUSAN of St. Thomas, passed away on Sunday, December 2, 2012 at the age of 49. A funeral ser-vice was held December 5, 2012. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

LANKIN, MRS. BARBARA “BABBY” (nee MacKENZIE) of St. Thomas, passed away Saturday, December 1, 2012 in her 90th year.  Rela-tives and friends will be received at the Sifton Funeral Home, St. Thomas on Thursday evening, December 6, 2012 from 7-9pm. (Prayers at 8:30pm).  The Mass of Christian Burial will be cel-ebrated at Holy Angels’ Roman Catholic Church, St. Thomas on Friday, December 7, 2012 at 10am. Sifton Funeral Home.

LIMA, MARIA MADALENA of West Lorne, passed away Thursday, No-vember 29, 2012 in her 80th year. A funeral mass was held Decem-ber 1, 2012. West Lorne Chapel of Denning Funeral Directors Ltd.

PHIPPS, NELSON RICHARD of Wallacetown, passed away on Sunday, December 2, 2012 at the age of 80. A funeral service was held De-cember 5, 2012. West Lorne Chapel of Denning Funeral Directors Ltd.

SMALLDON WHITE, MRS. BLANCHE (nee LAUR) of St. Thomas, passed away Friday, November 30, 2012 in her 89th year.  A celebration of her life and gathering will be held at a later date.  Sifton Funeral Home.

STEVEN, JACK JAMES of St. Thomas, passed away Thurs-day, November 29, 2012 in his 49th year. A funeral service was held December 3, 2012. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

STUART, DONALD R.  of Metcalfe Gardens, St. Thomas, formerly of R.R.#7, St. Thomas, passed away Wednesday, November 28, 2012 in his 86th year.  A private graveside service was held.  Sifton Funeral Home.

TAYLOR, MARILYN JOY of RR #5, St. Thomas, passed away Thursday, November 29, 2012 in her 74th year. A funeral ser-vice was held December 3, 2012. Williams Funeral Home Ltd.

THOONEN, EDNA of Aylmer, passed away Friday, Novem-ber 30, 2012 in her 76th year. A funeral service was held December 3, 2012. H. A. Kebbel Funeral Home.

The Weekly News presents a list of Christmas Gift ideas along with the name of the businesses where these items may be purchased. See each of these

advertisers’ ads in this edition of The Weekly News.

Canadian Diamond Engagement Ring   TothJewellersRemote Car Starter CenturyService2013 Season Theatre Subscription PortStanley FestivalTheatreWatches andSterling Silver MuscatJewellersBraven Wireless Speakers CenturySound Sales&Service

Gift Certificatefor Hair Services HairCellarCanadian Diamond Pendant TothJewellersNew Limited Edition Prints PeterRobsonStudiosSamsung iPod Docks CenturySound Sales&ServiceColoured Gemstones MuscatJewellers

SIFTONFUNERALH O M E

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

519-631-1160118 Wellington Street, St. Thomas

Skaters from the St. Thomas Skating Club competed at the John McKay Memorial Invitational Competition in Tillsonburg on November 24-25, 2012. It was an exciting weekend of skating and these skaters represented their home club against skaters

from Western Ontario. From left, are: Sophie Renner (pre-prelimi-nary restricted), Mackenzie Ripley (level three development), Paige Blondeel (senior bronze starskate), Grace Renner (senior bronze starskate), Ainsley May (level three development).

Weekend of skating

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Mon-Fri 9:30am-9pm • Sat 9:30am-9pm • Sun 12pm-5pm • elginmall.com

ALZHEIMER SOCIETYAre you caring for someone with De-

mentia? Join us the 4th Wednesday of every month from 1:30-3:00pm in the

Community Room. The first part of the session features a guest speaker or topic. The second part offers an op-

portunity to discuss the caregiver role with others who understand. For more information please call 519-633-4396 or

visitwww.alzheimerelgin.ca

ONTARIO EARLY YEARSParticipate in a FREE playgroup every Thursday from 9:00-11:30am. Parents/caregivers and children from birth to

six years of age are welcome.

CREATIVE WRITING GROUPEver wanted to write something but

never found the time? WriteAdvantage Creative

Writer’s Workshop meets the first Monday of every month at the Elgin Mall Community room 7-9PM. IT’S

FREE!!! For further info please contact Dave Ferguson 519.765.1486

STORE dIRECTORYBentley ...................................................... 637-8021Charm Diamond Centre .......................... 637-8020Dairy Queen / Orange Julius ................................637-2542 ....................................................................Elgin Mall Dental Office ..........................637-1811Elgin Travel & Cruises ............................................633-6300 ....................................................................Experts Tailoring & Alterations ..............852-1035Flair Jeans & Alterations ........................633-4794GNC ............................................................637-0023Galaxy Cinemas ........................................631-2261GoodLife Fitness .................. 633-8475 & 631-1501

Groovie Smoothie.....................................207-5500Hairmasters...............................................633-2440Hallmark.....................................................633-7675K&K Locksmith .........................................631-4110Knockout Fashions...................................633-0530LifeLabs...........................................1-877-849-3637Magic Nails ...............................................631-3413Mags, Smokes & More ...........................633-9773Metro..........................................................633-8780Northern Reflections ...............................633-4853OMAC Mortgage ......................................637-1850Payless Shoe Source ..............................637-7796Pharmasave ..............................................631-5551

Rayna .........................................................633-4944Rogers Wireless .......................................637-0384Smithbooks................................................633-4717Sport Mart .................................................631-4006St Thomas Town & Country Realty ........207-3000Stitches ......................................................631-4600Subway ......................................................631-0331Suzy Shier..................................................633-1336TD Canada Trust .......................................633-4640Tan Jay .......................................................633-5524The Perk.....................................................631-3242Wok Express .............................................637-6426Zellers ........................................................633-4645

Seventh day of SantaSaturday December 8

$10 Elgin Mall Gift Certificate to the first 50 shoppers who spend more than $150. Offer valid with proof of purchase in person at

Info Booth.

Eighth day of SantaSunday December 9

Food Drive Event- Santa will give out a free Holiday Ornament to anyone who brings in a canned good for the food drive between

12 and 5pm.

Ninth day of SantaSaturday December 15

Cookie Decorating between 1 and 2pm with Santa-kids can decorate

cookies for Santa with Santa’s elves! Shh…don’t show Santa.

They are a surprise!

Tenth day of SantaSunday December 16

Pet Day! Bring your pet to have a photo taken with Santa.

Eleventh day of SantaSaturday December 22

Free Colouring Book when you visit Santa. While supplies last.

Twelfth day of SantaSunday December 23

One Shopping Day left! Hurry to Elgin Mall for your last

minute shopping.

Santa Photos

Photo Hours:Saturdays 12-5 pm

Sundays 1-4 pmThursdays &

Fridays 3-7 pmdec. 17 to 21

3-7 pmdec. 24

11 am-3 pm

Don’t forget the mall is open until

9pm Saturdays for all your shopping

needs!!

12 DAYS OF SANTA AT ELGIN MALL

Visit elginmall.com formore exciting offers!