Wortley Villager
January-February 2026 Issue 96
Message from the Mayor by Mayor Josh Morgan mayor@london.ca 519-661-4920
Looking ahead in 2026, Wortley can expect continued investments in pedestrian safety, community spaces and neighbourhood infrastructure, always with an eye on supporting the Village’s unique character. I look forward to joining many of you at the upcoming winter events. Mayor Josh Morgan
Happy New Year, Wortley! As we step into 2026, I want to reflect on the wonderful spirit you brought to 2025. From a fantastic Christmas in the Village to year-round volunteerism and neighbourly care, Wortley contin- ues to be a shining example of what community can look like in
London. Thank you for your energy, creativity and kindness. Winter hasn’t wasted any time this year, with early cold snaps and frequent snowfall, and I know many of you have felt it on morning trips or during strolls through the Village. City crews are out daily, keeping your narrow, walkable streets safe and making sure sidewalks and cycling routes remain usable through the winter season. I also want to emphasize the importance of our warming centres and winter response programs. As temperatures dip, these services are essential for residents without stable shelter, providing warmth, meals and community support. Thank you to the many who continue to champion compassion and care for all Londoners.
WHERE MUSIC COMES ALIVE!
25 26
February 14, 2026 LOVE AND ROMANCE WITH DENISE PELLEY If music be the food of love, this concert will be a feast! This Valentine’s Day, enjoy some of the greatest romantic music written, from pops to orchestral masterworks. Original poetry read by Roy Lewis. 8 Brilliant Concerts to Enjoy In Person or by Video On Demand
NEW! FAMILY CONCERT
March 8, 2026 AN ENCHANTING AFTERNOON: PETER AND THE WOLF Spark a life-long love of music with this enchanting introduction to the orchestra! Join us as we bring the story of Peter and the Wolf to life, showcasing our instruments and their unique sounds. A great family afternoon starting at: 2:30 pm - Pre-concert craft for kids with The Children’s Museum 3:30 pm - Concert begins 4:20 pm - Instrument Petty Zoo Concert Sponsor: THE NOAM CHERNICK MEMORIAL FUND FOR MUSIC INSPIRING THE YOUNG
londonsymphonia.ca 226-270-0910 contact@londonsymphonia.ca
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Page 2 Wortley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026
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Andrew Lewis Notes from the Mindfield The TAP Centre for Creativity presented Notes from the Mind- field , an exhibit of the latest body of work by Andrew Lewis, from December 3 to January 10. Andrew is an internationally- recognized artist and Adjunct Professor at Western University, who resides in Wortley Village. A well-attended (despite inclement weather!) opening reception was followed over the next weeks by an artist talk with interview by Andrew’s daughter, Andrea Valentine-Lewis of the Vancouver Art Gallery, an artist workshop, a live painting / music session, tours (including one for BealART Specialist Painting students), and art crawls.
Learn more at www.andrewlewisdesign.com and at www.tapcreativity.org
Above: “A wonderful mix of people making two 24’ cool paintings, that are frankly fantastic,” enthused Andrew. The paintings were then on show at the TAP Centre for the duration of the ‘Notes from the Mindfield’ exhibit. Above at right, Andrew with daughter Andrea.
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Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 3
The Village Vibe
Old South Community Organization annual Christmas tree sale. The trees sold out by mid-December!
A magical holiday display at the Idylewyld Inn on Grand Ave.
Joan (Grand Wood Park) and her hand-decorated gingerbread house.
Wortley Villager Issue #96 Jan-Feb 2026 Your local community connector The 100% locally owned and produced Wortley Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Managing Editor / Advertising Cathy Wood Cathy@villagerpublications.com All articles by Cathy Wood unless noted otherwise. Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood Old South Delivery Ambassador: Nippy Watson Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions.
St. Martin’s kindergarten students spread holiday cheer with their hand-decorated cup sleeves for Sidetrack – A Wortley Café.
Winter on the corner of Elmwood Avenue East and Edward Street. Photo courtesy Ben Porchuk.
Your December 2025 Villager Publications
Do you have an Old South Neighbour of Note? Do you do cultural cooking? Cover photo and article suggestions welcome! Contact Cathy at Cathy@villagerpublications.com
The complete lineup of Villager Publications community magazines may be read online at www.villagerpublications.com. Contact your Villager rep with article suggestions, local photography that you’d like to share, or to inquire about promoting your business.
Page 4 Wortley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026
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Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 5
The Life of a Nomad: How an Integrated Immigrant Found Home in Wortley Village by family, friends and neighbours What does it take to turn a foreign land into home? For Kingsley Ojukwu, it wasn’t just about crossing borders – it was about crossing barriers, breaking stereotypes, and building bridges of belonging. His story is one of resilience, reinvention, and the relentless pursuit of community. Kingsley’s journey began in the vibrant eastern region of Nigeria, where his formative years were shaped by family, culture, and curiosity. His path soon led north, where he completed high school and pursued nursing education. In those early days, his focus was deeply rooted in maternal care – antenatal visits, labour and delivery, and postpartum support. He worked tirelessly, balancing full-time employment with volunteer ser- vice at St. Vincent de Paul. It was during these moments of reflection that Kingsley felt a profound calling: to bridge the gap between hopeful mothers seeking an experience of childbirth. That passion ignited a dream that would take him far beyond the borders of Nigeria. Driven by ambition and compassion, Kingsley enrolled in medical school in Dalian, China – a bold leap into a new world. Six years of rigorous study deepened his understanding of medicine, but his thirst for knowledge remained unquenched. He wanted to master the science behind creating life itself, so he pursued clinical embryology at the University of Oxford. It was there, amidst the historic halls of academia, that Kingsley met his future husband – a man from St. Thomas who would become his partner in life and adventure. After graduation, the couple moved to Toronto, full of hope and excitement. But reality soon set in. Despite his impressive credentials, Kingsley faced one of the hardest challenges immigrants often encounter: integration. The Canadian job market proved unforgiving, and months of searching yielded no opportunities in his field. Yet Kingsley refused to let adversity define him. He leaned on his resilience, his multilingual skills— including Mandarin – and his outgoing nature. When he applied for a customer service role at TD Bank, the manager saw something special in him and offered him the job on the spot. Kingsley recalls those early days vividly – learning Canadian slang, discovering what a “loonie” was, and immersing himself in a world he never imagined: finance. From mortgages to investments, credit cards to real estate, Kingsley embraced it all. Banking opened his eyes to possibilities beyond medicine, and as he worked, he saved diligently to fund his certification exams for the IVF industry. His perseverance paid off when he landed a position at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), a milestone that brought him to London and, ultimately, to Wortley Village. Initially, London was meant to be a temporary stop – a year to gain “Canadian experience” before returning to Toronto. But Wortley Village had other plans. Its charm, its sense of community, and its welcoming spirit drew Kingsley in. He extended his contract, planted roots, and began building a life. While working at LHSC, he kept a part-time role at TD, which helped him secure his first home in London. From there, opportunity blossomed. He purchased additional properties, including homes from neighbours moving out of Wortley – one
To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com Professionally, Kingsley’s journey has come full circle. Following the closure of the Fertility Clinic at LHSC, he transitioned from clinical embryology to a dynamic role as Capacity Manager. In this position, he orchestrates patient flow with creativity and precision – ensuring emergency departments run smoothly, ambulances offload quickly, and care remains timely. It’s a demanding role, but Kingsley thrives on the challenge, drawing on his diverse background in medicine, nursing, finance, and problem-solving. His adaptability is his superpower. of them his very first landlady. Kingsley poured his heart into these houses, revamping interiors and transforming gardens into vibrant spaces that impressed the entire neighborhood. Today, Kingsley is more than a homeowner; he is a cornerstone of Wortley Village. His tenants aren’t just renters – they’re neighbours, friends, and often guests at his garden parties. His presence radiates warmth and inclusivity, making him a beloved figure in the community. But Kingsley’s sense of belonging didn’t stop at bricks and mortar. In Wortley Village, he found his tribe – a vibrant LGBTQ+ community that embraced him wholeheartedly. Together, they’ve built a circle of deep connections and lifelong friendships. They gather often to celebrate diversity, share stories, and create spaces where everyone feels seen and valued. Their “Gaybourhood” group is more than a social circle; it’s a beacon of welcome for LGBTQ+ individuals and neighbours alike, fostering integration and joy in one of London’s most eclectic neighbourhoods. For Kingsley, these friendships are a reminder that home is not just about where you live – it’s about who you share it with.
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efficient retrofits, and eco-friendly commuting. In Wortley Village, he’s equally active – whether playing pickleball at Wesley Knox Church or joining neighbourhood teams as a substitute. His energy is infectious, his smile unforgettable. Conversations with Kingsley are never ordinary; they’re lessons in resilience, kindness, and the belief that dreams are achievable through hard work and heart. Kingsley’s story is a testament to transformation – a nomad who crossed continents, embraced challenges, and built a life rooted in community. In Wortley Village, he is not just an immigrant who integrated; he is a neighbour, a leader, and a living reminder that home is not just a place—it’s a feeling you create, and a tribe you cherish.
Left: Husband Peter with Kingsley – returning from his hospital shift and preparing to head to Fanshawe College to recertify as a nurse in Canada. Above: A welcoming door to the couple’s backyard oasis (left), and the front yard blooms, enjoyed by all.
Beyond work, Kingsley champions sustainability as part of LHSC’s Green Team, promoting initiatives like pollinator gardens, energy-
Warm up your winter with authentic Ukrainian traditional recipes with a modern approach. Pierogies, Borscht, Cabbage Rolls, Potato Pancakes, Desserts and more!
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Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 7
J. Bruce Parker Asks... What do you like best about winter in Wortley Village?
Talking about appreciating winter is a po- larizing (pun intended) topic. In Wortley Village, our local retailers have opened up their doors, hearts and wine bottles for two separate pre-Christmas shopping events during the month of November. On
December 5th, the annual ‘Christmas in the Village’ began, and so I was able to pose the question to a few volunteers and participants of this great annual event.
Krista and Angie Reeves Krista suggests, “It all looks like a wonderful Hallmark Christmas card”, with Angie adding, “a hot toddy at the Old South Pub.”
John Brocze and Christine Kelsey both agree that the tourtières, prepared by the ‘Growing Chefs’ organization and sold at ‘Christmas in the Village’ are the best things about winter in the village.
Gemmel Neilson The annual Christmas in the Village.
Brian Elliott The ice rink on the Green.
Glen Weeks OSCO Christmas tree sales.
Margaret Hopkins Christmas in the Village.
Charlie Mitchell I love the snow.
Page 8 Wortley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026
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Ward 11 Update from City Hall by Skylar Franke, Ward 11 London City Council 519-661-2489, extension 4011 • sfranke@london.ca Hello Wortley Villagers,
Free Lead Testing of Tap Water The City of London offers free lead testing of tap water for Londoners who live in older homes (built before 1952). Additionally, homeowners seeking financial assistance for the replacement of their lead water service pipe can apply to the Lead Service Extension Replacement Loan Program. This program allows successful applicants to apply the cost of their lead water service pipe replacement to their property tax bill and pay it back over ten years. To inquire about lead testing, please contact leadtesting@london.ca or call 519-661-2489 x 5541. Wortley Bridge Party Thank you to the 100 to 150 people who attended the Wortley Bridge Party. There was dancing, music, coffee, cookies and bubbles. We showed that Ward 11 and the City is brimming with love and inclusiveness. Increased Transit Service The draft 2026 Service Plan sets out the changes for Sept 2026 that are considered the highest priority, totalling approximately 24,000 hours on an annual basis and requiring four additional peak period buses. City Council approved 18,000 annualized hours as part of the budget. The London Transit Commission then agreed to adding an additional 2,000 service hours, pulling from reserves for one year, so in January the Commission will be choosing 20,000 new service hours to implement for Sept 2026. Email me with your thoughts! London Transit still has over 300,000 hours of outstanding service requests outside of the allocated annual budget. Every year, additional requests are received and have to be assessed and prioritized for implementation based on approved budget. Better service requires more investment.
As we welcome the new year, I’d like to wish everyone in Ward 11 a happy and healthy new year. I’m grateful for the strong sense of community in our neighbourhood, and I look forward to continuing to work with residents and businesses to keep Wortley Village a great place to live, shop, and connect in 2026.
Snow Clearing What Gets Cleared First? The City follows provincial guidelines, clearing high-traffic routes and roads to vital destinations first, then moving through streets from Class 1 (major arteries and bus routes) to Class 5 (local streets and cul-de-sacs). Bus stops are cleared after sidewalks because they require the same equipment and crews prioritize sidewalks. Quantity to Clear: Snow-clearing begins at different snowfall depths depending on the class: Class 1 activates with less than 5 cm, Class 2 at 5 cm, Classes 3 and 4 at 8 cm, and Class 5 at 10 cm. Higher classes respond sooner to lighter snow, while lower- priority areas require heavier accumulation before clearing starts. Report issues: If you notice unplowed roads, icy sidewalks, or other slippery conditions, you can report them directly through the City’s Service London portal (service.london.ca) or email me. Know parking rules: During a snow event, overnight on-street parking may be restricted so plows can operate.
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A Lifelong Connection: Bernie Bonk’s Journey with the Boys & Girls Club of London by Shelley Wood Bernie Bonk’s relationship with the Boys & Girls Club of London began when he started coming to the club as a young boy in the 1960s. He remembers when programs were run out of the small house on Simcoe Street and how he later joined the club’s new location on Horton Street in the late 1960s to take part in the boxing program, an experience that also gave him access to the pool when it opened in 1974. Many years later, in the latter part of his career, Bernie’s doctor advised him to become more active for health reasons. That nudge brought him back to the place that shaped so much of his childhood. Once he fully retired, he became a daily participant in Horton Street 50+ Centre programming, where he swims, takes exercise classes, learned ukulele, enjoys the fitness room, and has found a strong sense of community. As Bernie puts it, “I like the pool. I like the fitness room. There’s nothing here I don’t like.” Bernie says staying active is important, but it’s the friendships, warmth, and genuine care from fellow members that truly make the club special for him. He was especially excited about the Jolly Jamboree held December 17th, a festive gathering complete with entertainment and a holiday meal that brings the community together. For just $25 a month, older adults can participate in a wide range of activities including aquatics, exercise classes, woodworking, music programs, card groups, and social events. Anyone aged 50+ is welcome to drop in any Monday at 10:00 am for a tour of the facility and programs.
AlvegoRoot Theatre’s Ten Minute Play Festival “A lot can happen in ten minutes,” says Adam Corrigan Holowitz, director, playwright, dramaturg and sometimes actor, and founder of the AlvegoRoot Theatre. “Eight local playwrights have penned new ten-minute plays which will be fully staged in a tight eighty-minute performance at AlvegoRoot Theatre’s Ten Minute Play Festival,” he explains. “Playwrights’ imaginations have run wild this year with themes of artificial intelligence, drag, time travel, death’s waiting room, and so much more!” The performances will run from February 27 to March 1, 2026, at Manor Park Memorial Hall, 11 Briscoe Street West. Tickets are available at alvegoroottheatre.com.
Meanwhile, Adam reflects on high- lights of the theatre’s 2025 season: “We took on the artistic challenge of presenting a husband-wife duo of programming this fall with James Reaney’s short story Sleigh Without Bells: A Donnellys Story , turning it into a one-man show, and with Colleening, the Letters & Poetry of Colleen Thi- baudeau. Performing Sleigh Without Bells was very important to us because there remains so much misinformation and demonization of the Donnellys in
art and pop culture, and Reaney’s work brings both a truthful and human perspective to them. Colleen was known to say that she did not think her poetry could be set to music, and Stephen Holowitz and Oliver Whitehead cheerfully proved her wrong. Hearing her poems set to music was a powerful experience. We feel very privileged to have been part of Colleening 2025 , a grassroots celebration of the centenary of Colleen.” Looking Forward to 2026 In addition to the 10 Minute Play Festival , AlvegroRoot Theatre will kick off the 2026 season with a remount of Sleigh Without Bells on February 20th and 21st. “The rest of the season will be announced soon, and we will continue to create plays that show the strengths and stretch the boundaries of what theatre can do. We proudly tell London stories, develop local plays and hire local artists,” says Adam. Visit alvegoroottheatre.com and follow the theatre on Facebook for updates. Photo: Adam in Sleigh Without Bells. BESPOKE, WHEEL-THROWN POTTERY FUNCTIONAL, BEAUTIFUL PIECES FOR EVERYDAY USE
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Meet your new Old South Neighbour – Daniel Soha Born in Aix-en-Provence (France) to Hungarian-speaking pa- rents, Daniel Soha is the holder of a Master’s degree in Anglo-American studies and a Masters of Education from the University of Aix-Marseille. A citizen of both France and Canada, he recently moved to Old South London to be near family. His pre-retirement roles as a translator with the United Nations, and a columnist for French cultural magazines in Singapore and Boston “became a kind of warm-up for writing fiction” he explains. He has published a number of novels and collections of short stories in French, was a two-time finalist of the Trillium Awards, and a two-time winner of the prize awarded by the French Book Fair in Toronto. A board member of the London Writers Society, Daniel describes his new book Sam’s Orchid as a “moral tale of beauty, sex, love, and the movies.” The book is available at Little Wren Books on Adelaide Street and at mosaicpress. ca/products/sams- orchid, and on Amazon.ca.
my favourites) and I go to the gym regularly and I spoil my four grandchildren.” Daniel used to paint “many years ago, but I recently picked up my brushes again.” “My first impressions about Old South (in a nutshell): friendly, pleasant, pretty (nice architecture, beautiful tree-lined streets), culture and community-minded, respectful of nature and animal life, hedonistic, teeming with pedestrians. and smelling of flowers (in the summer) and good food,” he says. “The London Writers Society recently had a display/book sale at the Wesley Knox United Church, and again I was struck by the incredible attractiveness of the neighbourhood. For Salvador Dali, the center of the world was the Perpignan railroad station, for me it is pretty much Tuckey’s! Learn more about Daniel at www.danielsoha.com.
Daniel says he’s a collector “of mo- vies (DVDs), of pop-up books (!!), of North American native art (Pueblo pottery, Navajo rugs, Inuit and Iroquois sculptures), of original posters and paint- ings, and quite simply, of any oddities I can get my hands on, notably 1970s objects and paraphernalia. I also cook and was the author of a cookbook. I love sports (Rugby and boxing being
Hirläender Art Abstract and Figurative paintings by
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Ursula Hirländer. hirlaenderart.com
London Animal Care Centre 121 Pine Valley Blvd. www.accpets.ca • (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack 756 Windermere Rd. • (519) 432-4572
Studio visits by appointment.
HOUSE OF VICTOR HAIR SALON Ladies Cuts and Men’s Barbering Style Cuts • Perms • Colour • Foils Same day appointments! CHERRYHILL VILLAGE MALL • 301 OXFORD ST., UNIT 40 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM – 8PM • SATURDAY 9AM – 6PM • SUNDAY 11AM – 5PM 519-471-4980 Stylist? Chair Rentals Available! Great location Lots of Free Parking FREE Conditioning Treatment 10% off Perms & Colours Mon & Thurs after 5pm 3 3 3 3 Indian Culture – Ask for Janu. Chinese Culture – Ask for Lilly or Quin.
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Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 11
Looking forward to Londonlicious MORI means “forest” in Japanese. Located in the ‘Forest City’, MORI is nestled in the heart of Wortley Village and is Roll Roll’s second kitchen. MORI is a regular participant in the local Londonlicious Festival.
Rink On the Green Thanks to volunteers – and the cold enough weather – the skating rink at Wortley Road and Duchess Street opened late December. Open hours are subject to weather and maintenance needs. Organizers ask that all protect the ice by staying off when closed, and if you can, grab a shovel and help clear off snow when you see it. Updates are available on Facebook at Rink on the Green.
What’s Happening at Landon Library Submitted by Ashleigh Hickey Cursive Writing (Ages 8+) January 20, 2024 10:30 am – noon (Registered) Come learn the benefits of cursive writing and try your hand at some pangrams with Dez, a local archivist. PA Day Creativity Break (Teen) February 2, 2024 3:00 – 4:30 pm (Drop-In) It’s time to be creative! Drop by your local library to take a break and create. Craft supplies may vary, chill vibes only. STEAM, Saturdays (Family) February 3, 2024 10:00 – 11:00 am (Drop-In) Drop-in to explore a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math related activities! MORI offers customers a special experience with its authentic atmosphere and menu, both representing Japanese tradition. Whether you’re craving delicious bites or drinks that hit the spot every time, MORI delivers flavours and vibes that transport you straight to Japan. Feel the Japanese vibe right in Wortley Village. MORI would like to express their gratitude to London and all our valued customers. They are located at 147 Wortley Road. Learn more at morilondon.ca. AlvegoRoot Theatre Trivia Night Manor Park Memorial Hall, 11 Briscoe Street For ticket information and to learn more about AlvegoRoot’s 2024 season, visit www.alvegoroottheatre.com
(226) 998-8703 Enhance Physical Health, Confidence and Self Esteem with Sifu Carlos Ferraz
190 Wortley Rd. Martial Arts and Wellness Programs in the Heart of Wortley Village
Kung Fu & Tai Chi School EXPERIENCE MARTIAL ARTS AND WELLNESS BOOK A TRIAL CLASS AT https://kungfu-taichi.ca Dedicated classes for children • Day Camps Classes for teens, adults and seniors. Photo courtesy Rink on the Green Faceboo k page A Bridge of Belonging by J. Bruce Parker On November 25th, 30 members of a group known as Second Sons, a men’s only white nationalist group, staged a presence on the Wortley Road overpass, presenting a banner stating ‘Remigration Now’. On November 30, Wortley Village responded with a large group of caring citizens commandeering the bridge, and in the words of Skyler Franke, our councillor of Ward 11, “This is our bridge, this is our community, and all are welcome.” In Wortley Village, we can proudly proclaim in what we believe is ‘community’; one of connection, inclusion, support and respect. Thank you to all who took the time to demonstrate this on the overpass.
Georgia Kortas, lawyer at Thomson Mahoney Delorey LLP welcomes your inquires for legal services in estate planning, estate administration, real estate (residential / commercial) and business law. Georgia can be reached at: Thomson Mahoney Delorey LLP 145 Wharncliffe Road South, London, Ontario N6J 2K4 T: 519-673-1151 ext 251 E: gkortas@londonlawyers.com
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Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack! Bi-annual festival spotlighting what is unique and delivious in London, Ontario Winter Festival: January 16, 2026 - February 8, 2026 Summer Festival: July 17, 2026 - August 9, 2026 It’s more than a menu - it’s a movement!
Bringing people and pets together www.accpets.ca
Visit LACC and The Catty Shack on Facebook!
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Page 12 Wortley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026
Meet your OSCO Board! by Nicole Phillips
her functionality and memory before her passing in 2024. Dave’s current career is at the LCBO just east of Wortley Village. Dave’s favourite OSCO memory was the “My Neighbour is Normal” campaign that saw the leadership of OSCO securing the restoration and transfer of the ‘Normal School and Green’ to remain an upgraded public green space for the community. Heritage, architecture and photography are Dave’s passions while he gladly supports the local economy at numerous businesses and establishments in Wortley Village.
The Old South Community Organization (OSCO), is a non-profit, member-run volunteer organization dedicated to protecting and improving the quality of life in our community, and in our city. Board Members and volunteers work hard every year to stage the February Chili Cook-off, Gathering on the Green, Christmas In the Village, the Christmas Market and more. Board members include: Mario Circelli (Communications), Deb Dobson, Dave Flett, Margaret Hopkins (Volunteer Coordinator), Ian Leishman, Nicole Phillips (President), Gordon Saylor (Treasurer), Eric Shepperd and new members Celia Lewis (Administrator), Carrie Mitchell and Dave Vermue. Celia Lewis A lifelong Londoner, Celia’s enthusiasm for volunteerism began in Girl Guides. You may catch her out walking with her adorable little dog, Tulip, or enjoying the outdoors while exploring Old South on her bicycle. Carrie Mitchell Dr. Carrie Mitchell is a Wortley Village resident, urban planner, and Associate Professor at the University of Waterloo whose research focuses on building safer, healthier, and more resilient cities. Carrie leads the Wortley Village Lab, which support residents in using data to improve mobility, street safety, and neighbourhood wellbeing. When she’s not working with researchers and residents to co-create safer streets, Carrie can often be found biking and walking through Old South with her daughter Maia and husband Rob, chatting with neighbours, or enjoying the local shops and parks that make Wortley such a special place to call home. Dave Vermue Dave was raised in the Broughdale neighbourhood, loving many hours exploring nature in Gibbons Park along the Thames River. His schooling included St. Peter’s music program, Central Secondary School, and two years at Beal Art. Dave studied and lived on-campus at the University of Guelph employed in a portfolio of student housing roles before achieving a B.A. Degree in Fine Art, returning afterwards to London to reside in Old South. Rejoining the OSCO board again, after a decade of leave, while as caregiver for his Mother for whom dementia slowly stole away
Above: returning members Mario Circelli, Deb Dobson, Dave Flett, Margaret Hopkins, Ian Leishman, Nicole Phillips, Gordon Saylor, Eric Shepperd. Below: please welcome new members as of December 2025, Celia Lewis, Carrie Mitchell and Dave Vermue.
Congratulations to Margaret Hopkins on being named a Distingished Londoner in the 2026 Mayor’s New Year’s Honour List!
Learn more at oscolondon.ca and by following the Old South Community
Organization on Facebook
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Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 13
Christmas in the Village and Christmas Market The Old South Community Organization (OSCO) reports that this year’s Christmas Market – eight European-style wooden chalets located at Elmwood and Wortley over the Christmas in the Village weekend, selling a variety of goods and treats – earned $10,602.96 for the various charities and worthy causes that the charitable event supports.
Photo courtesy Ilana, Growing Chefs!
Photo courtesy the Mylie Group
Osco thanks “Vince and the Cami gang” for conveying the chalets from and to storage.
Boxing Day Ice Storm of 2025!
Above: photos courtesy Danielle Crich. Below: photos courtesy Ben Porchuk.
Above: Christmas in the Village
Page 14 Wortley Villager • Jan-Feb 2026
To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com
What’s Happening in Old South Old South Community Organization CHILI COOK-OFF Saturday, February 28, 6 – 9 pm Wesley Knox United Church 91 Askin Street Advance tickets available at Tuckeys Home Hardware: Adults $10 / Children $5 or $12 / $7 at the door.
TICKETS
Music & Lyrics Mark Hollman Book & Lyrics Greg Kotis
Feb 19 – March 1 The Palace Theatre
(519) 432-1029
London Irish Canadian Club: 1 Cove Road September 2026: Irish Festival on the Green! All are welcome. londonirish.ca Brassroots 2025 – 2026 Season February 7: Summon the Heroes May 23: The Beat Goes On Visit brassroots.ca for ticket info and details. Karen Schuessler Singers March 7: Strong and Free May 2: Missa Gaia Earth Mass Visit kssingers.com for tickets and details. South Dance Company presents Fate In Motion – the Story of Romeo and Juliet January 14 to 16, 7:30 pm • $10 cash at door London South Collegiate Institute Auditorium Family Skate Party Friday, February 6 • 6:30 – 7:45 pm Farquharson Arena Free Hot Chocolate, Cookies and Activities (7:30 – 9 pm) Hockey helmets required for children Children must be accompanied by an adult
Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
What’s Happening at Landon Library Submitted by Ashleigh Hickey PA Day: Winter Olympics (Ages 4+): Friday, January 30th 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Drop in for a variety of Olympic- themed activities! Retro Rewind Classic Arcade (Ages 11+): Tuesday, February 3rd, 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. We’ve hooked up the original consoles and cartridges so you can experience the games exactly as they were meant to be played: on a CRT TV with that classic controller in your hands. Drop in and have a blast from the past you won’t want to miss! STEAM Lab (Ages 4+): Saturday, February 7th, 10:00 am to 11:30 am. Stop by the library and explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math-related activities! Maker’s Club (Ages 10+): Saturday, February 21st, 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Join us as we navigate the realm of 3D print and design! Register in person, online or by calling 519-661-4600. Registration opens February 14th. Peggy Sattler’s 2026 New Year’s Levee and Community Recognition Awards Wednesday, January 28, 2026 • 6:30 – 9 pm Please pre-register at peggysattler.ca/levee Byron-Springbank Legion Branch 533 1276 Commissioners Road West Animalert Pet Adoptions is a registered charity focused on finding good homes for dogs and cats in London and surrounding area. To support their recycling program that raises funds for costs related to adoption, fostering vaccination, education, spaying and neutering, aluminum cans (pop, beer, cooler), wine and liquor bottles (plastic and glass) may be dropped off at 188 Bruce Street. Visit www.animalert.ca/help/can-bottle-drive for more information. Old South Artisan and Vendor Spring Market April 25, 10am • Wortley Public School
www.hylandcinema.com
$3600 IN PRIZES/WEEK! MONDAYS AT 8:00 PM $2.50/card - valid for all 3 games Play on Rogers Cable 13 or stream and play online Tvbingo.ca For card sale locations and more info: NEW PRICE!
NEW PRIZE BOARD! PLAY WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY!
To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com Note from the Managing Editor As a community magazine, the Wortley Villager invites your par- ticipation and welcomes your local article suggestions and photos. Do you have a neighbour who goes above and beyond with a local charity or is an accomplished musician, artist, gardener, athlete, author or inventor? Do you do cultural cooking? Would your business benefit by presenting your information to our thousands of readers each month? I look forward to hearing from you. Email Cathy@villagerpublications.com.
Trivia In the Village Thursday, January 15, 7 pm Plant Matter Kitchen, 162 Wortley Rd. Reservations Recommended • 519-660-3663 Pub Style, Pop Culture Trivia Night
Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2026 • Page 15
Super
Service is my priority. Community is my passion. AMANDA AUSTIN Marketing Your Property to Get it SOLD! “Amanda provided us with
Senior Day 55 and older SAVE 20% on vitamins the first Wednesday of every month.
TURNER DRUG STORE Vitamin Centre
a great experience as first time home buyers. We are so glad we met her and reached out to have her as our agent. She is very knowledgeable and her guidance helped us get the perfect home. Amanda made home searching fun even in this busy and
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Transferring your prescriptions is easy. Finding better service than at Turner’s is not! See the difference an independent pharamcy makes.
competitive market.” Samantha O, buyer
Amanda (Patrick) Austin Sales Representative
I ndependently Owned and Operated
London’s Corner Drug Store since 1938 52 Grand at Carfrae • (519) 672-3340
Mon-Fri 9-6 Sat 10-3
amanda@amandaaustin.ca Direct: 519-871-9807 • Office: 519-471-9200
OSCO CHILI COOK-OFF • SATURDAY FEBRUARY 28
Matt’s Car Care Tip
BE WINTER ROAD TRIP READY With the rst snow covered or icy road drive this fall, drivers are quickly reminded of the dangers of winter driving. All Season tires and Summer tires become rigid in cold temperatures whereas winter tires are made from a different rubber compound that stays pliable in the cold. Winter tires, when installed in a set of 4, improve braking and maneuverability on cold and icy road surfaces. Laws that require winter tires in Germany and Quebec quickly proved well founded; winter collision rates dropped noticeably in those areas. Winter tires are an additional upfront expense you may wish to avoid, but, the cost savings of driving on all season tires (especially older, worn ones) may be quickly offset by sliding into a curb (and damaging your car) or having a small "fender bender" accident on a slippery road surface. The most valuable facet of winter tires is that they keep you, your family, and other motorists safer in the winter. If you are in the market for winter tires stop in and see us, we have many different options for different budgets and will help you choose the right tires for your vehicle. Make sure that you have good tires (preferably snow tires) properly inflated with lots of tread. Check your wiper blades and fill up your washer fluid (sometimes the low-level warning light only comes on when you are virtually out of fluid). Use a good quality washer fluid with a -40 or lower freeze rating. Check your oil and other engine compartment fluid levels. Make sure that your battery is strong enough to start your car in the cold. If you notice hesitation or slow starting in the cooler weather this could mean your battery is ready for replacement. Driver fatigue is a large cause of accidents, driving in low visibility and inclement weather is very stressful and demands extra attention. Take lots of breaks, stay alert and leave extra time to travel in case you run into slowdowns. An emergency kit with a blanket, a first aid kit and some granola bars are always great things to keep in the car. One of the most important things you can do is to clear all the snow off your car completely; large chunks of snow and ice are hazardous when flying off the roof of your car at highway speeds posing safety risks to everyone around you. Did you know that we will also install your existing winter, give us a call or hop onto our website to make an appointment today! Safe Driving As always, if you are heading out on a winter trip and want to make sure your car is ready for the road, give us a call and we can check your fluid levels, tires and battery for you! Safe travels! Going on a road trip out of town this winter? Make sure your car is up to the challenge! Winter driving presents certain challenges to both our cars and to us, as drivers. Before you pack up the car for a trip to Mont Tremblant or a weekend in Blue Mountain, ensure you and your vehicle are ready.
“Matt and his team are friendly, professional, ef fi cient and honest. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my vehicles.” DM “Friendly and communicative staff, fair pricing and close to home. It’s nice when the local team is as exceptional as this one. Thank you! Kate.”
BE WINTER ROAD READY Oil Changes • Tire Sales & Installation Alignments • Factory Scheduled Maintenance
Brakes • Mechanical Repairs Visit www.wortleyautoservice.com to book your appointment online.
shop@wortleyautoservice.com • www.wortleyautoservice.com
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