Byron Villager March 2025

Byron

MARCH 2025 ISSUE 98

Villager

WE’VE MOVED! SPRING I RED Z FOR RUS RUST PROTECTION FOR RUST Hyde Park location now at: 6378 Egremont Drive At the corner of Egremont and Nairn, only 5 minutes down the road from the previous location. Ask about the Spring Special on Salt Eliminator with your next visit. Monday to Friday 8 am to 5 pm Saturday by appointment 519-473-0030

Krown.com

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community, inviting everyone to enjoy events, socialize, and support a vital local institution. The Ontario Trillium Foundation’s support has allowed Byron-Springbank Legion 533 to thrive, proving that when a community comes together, incredible things can happen. “We appreciate all we’ve been able to accomplish with OTF’s help,” said Andrea Roussy, Branch President. As the grant period closes, the Legion remains committed to fostering a welcoming space for all, ensuring its legacy of service and community support endures for generations to come.

Byron-Springbank Legion 533 Thrives with Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) grant, awarded in February 2024, has had a transformative impact on Byron- Springbank Legion 533, enhancing its community presence, strengthening outreach efforts, and expanding event offerings. Over the past year, the Legion has leveraged this funding to create meaningful connections, engage diverse audiences, and continue supporting veterans and their families. Working alongside the Reux Marketing Agency, the Legion amplified its marketing initiatives, leading to increased awareness and participation in programs and services. One of the key improvements has been a more dynamic presence on social media, particularly through Facebook, thanks to Curtis Lucas’s engaging posts that have resonated with the community. Additionally, Reux Marketing Agency designed eye-catching digital and print posters, elevating event promotions to new heights. A vibrant events calendar is another major highlight from the past year, with significant growth in attendance at popular gatherings such as the Trivia Nights and Rock the Village. These events have fostered a renewed sense of camaraderie, attracting both long-time supporters and new faces to the Legion. Looking ahead, exciting ideas like a Family Feud Night—where local businesses compete—are in the works to further strengthen community bonds. Beyond traditional marketing, Reux Marketing Agency has introduced innovative approaches to community engagement. A workshop led by Reux’s marketing head encouraged Legion members to think creatively about reconnecting with the community in meaningful ways. This fresh perspective has helped shape new initiatives targeting younger demographics while ensuring that long-time members continue to feel valued and included. With more people visiting the Legion, revenue from the bar and events has significantly increased. A revamped menu, an engaging video campaign, and an inviting atmosphere have all contributed to this success. The interactions between younger attendees and long-time members have been particularly heartening, creating an environment where different generations share experiences and build lasting relationships. A key message the Legion wants to share is that you don’t have to be a member to participate. The doors are open to the entire

Trivia night at the Byron Legion.

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March 2025 Page 3

Supporting the Quality and Growth of the Byron Optimist Sports Complex The Byron Optimist Sports Complex is a superior venue for multiple events and sports in the area. The complex provides a base for more than 80 teams and 3000 athletes of all potentials. The complex supports events every day of the week from May to October, with more than 50,000 visitors a year. Always known as a top-quality venue for baseball, fastball, soccer, slo-pitch and other recreational groups as well as the Optimist Club of Byron Canada Day celebrations and fireworks. The Byron Sports Complex is run completely by volunteers and donations. There is no City of London funding for this facility. The Optimist Club of Byron supports the programs and events that run through this facility through fundraising activities throughout the year.

Byronite builds patriotic snowfort.

Promotion of your business through the purchase of banner signage is a great opportunity to reach thousands of people and help continue the operation of this top-quality sports complex in Byron. For more information about event and park sponsorship opportunities, please contact Denise Pope at denise.pope@sympatico.ca or call her at 519-694-7056. International Women’s Day March 8th March 8th is International Women’s Day, a day that celebrates women’s global, social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. Women entrepreneurs are leaving their mark on the world. By creating successful companies, they contribute to the economy’s betterment. Female entrepreneurship is vital for our future. By encouraging more female entrepreneurs to share their ideas and start their businesses, we create a healthy balance in the community, allowing it to thrive and develop.

Byron Villager Issue #98 March 2025 Your local community connector. The 100% locally owned and produced Byron 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 & Editor: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Content Managers: Lynne WIlliams, Barb Botten Graphic Artist: Jon Botten 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. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Barb at Barb@villagerpublications.com

Proudly Canadian Villager Publications is a proudly Canadian-owned and operated compa- ny, deeply committed to supporting our local communities. We’re ALL and ONLY about your LOCAL artisans, entrepreneurs events, service organiza- tions, businesses, people and places. Creating jobs for fellow Canadians, we use all homegrown resources to write, design, publish, print and deliver your Villager magazines each month. With every issue, we celebrate the spirit of Canada.

Please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com for more information regarding any of our local community magazines. Visit our website at villagerpublications.com to read them all. YOUR JAN/FEB 2025 VILLAGER PUBLICATIONS LINEUP

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DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES BYRON AND AREA

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Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations

Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Very competitive salary. Sales incentive. 4 weeks annual vacation immediately. Extra days off for Christmas, birthday, Easter Monday plus all stat holidays. Work Schedule is Monday–Friday, 8am to 4pm Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker

Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker

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To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com rive, Delaware, Ontario N0L 1E0 • Tel: 519-652-3201 • Fax: 519-652-2710 0-363-4304 • Email: crawfordanddanyluk@cmmgbrokers.com ordanddanylukinsurance.com • 519-652-3201 OUR HOME A SPRING TUNE-UP! season to check out your home’s exterior, from roof shingles to lazing to dryer vents. Use the handy “Home Maintenance Checklist” bsite to make sure your home is safe and sound. 2681 Gideon Drive, Delaware, Ontario Aviva Abex April Echelon Intact Pal Travelers Cansure Group One preciation coverage insurer’s right to deduct from the value of your Axiom Mutual AM Fredericks Premier Group Cambrian Special Risks Signature Risk Partners South Western Group Oegema Nicholson & Assoc. Special Risk Insurance Managers Sports & Fitness Insurance Canada INSURERS THAT WE CAN GET QUOTES FROM Max Insurance Burns & Wilcox nsurance specialist, we know the lay of the land in your neighbourhood. o assess conditions affecting your home and compare your options from an insurers. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance will combine coverages for multiple types of water problems such as ground water, overland water, exterior water and sewer lines. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Economical/Definity Forward Insurance Yarmouth Mutual Victor Insurance RIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. URHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE URANCE SHOPPER WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations HOW DOES ACCIDENT WAIVER PROTECT ME It is an auto insurance benefit that may prevent insurance rates from increasing as a result of a driver’s first at-fault accident. It can be added to a policy to protect those with a good driving record. n settling a claim for ge caused by a peril u are insured. Toll Free: 1-800-363-4304

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SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Comfortable environment. Great team to work with. Email resume to Cathy Fallowfield cathy@cmmgbrokers. com THIS COULD BE YOU! ASK US ABOUT INSURANCE FOR HOME, AUTO, COMMERCIAL OR FARM Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near a lake, river, or pond to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves, and similar major events. Drop into our office for a free flood preparation brochure or call us and we will mail it to you Coming soon: Look for our flood preparation brochure filled with tips and guides on what to do before, during, and after a flood. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance combines coverages for multiple types of water problems, such as ground water, overland water, exterior water, and sewer lines. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the spring What is the difference between “Flood Insurance” & “Overland Water Coverage” RRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? www.crawfordanddanylukinsurance.com 519-652-3201 Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. THE INSURANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD Patty Crawford Registered Insurance Broker Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker S A “WAIVER RECIATION” Cathy Fallowfield Cindy Haywood Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Registered Insurance Broker

UPDATING YOUR HOME? UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE! Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Fax: 519-652-2710

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March 2025 Page 5

3 WAYS

March - Crawford.indd 1

2022-02-16 2:53 PM

Full Circle: A Classic Wagon’s Journey Back Home

For a true car lover, revisiting memories through a specific set of wheels is just about as good as it gets. Steve Plunkett not only has the make, model, and year of car he learned to drive in, it’s the exact vehicle his family owned more than 50 years ago: A 1969 Pontiac Safari Estate Wagon. “My Dad bought it new from LMP in 1969 for my mother”, Steve explains. “This is the car I took my driver’s test on 55 years ago.”. Only 630 of these cars were made in Oshawa. This vehicle had the power

Joe and Steve, the children of the two owners.

“I would see Joe from time to time as the car remained under a tarp on Boler Road,” recalls Steve. “I always said I’d love to buy it back if he wanted to sell.” That day eventually arrived and Steve purchased the car. He remembers that it was complete and in pretty good shape. He gave it a full restoration and, like his other vehicles, it goes out for a stretch on a regular basis. “In 56 years it’s only been in two families, generating many memories through the years,” says Steve. For 15 years, Steve Plunkett turned his love of cars into the Fleetwood Country Cruize-In, an event that supported local charities and raised over $1.7 million. “Taking a passion that I love and creating an event that benefits so many people has been a blessing,” says Steve. The event attracted thousands of people and cars from across North America. When not at home on his estate on the outskirts of Byron, Steve tours invitational car events and shows across North America, showcasing his classic cars.

to move everyone and their dog to Grandma’s house or on a summer road trip. It came with a 350 cubic inch engine, a four- barrel carburetor, and 380-foot pounds of torque. The Plunkett family used the wagon as a “family hauler” until 1973. This was, of course, in an era long before minivans and SUVs. They sold the wagon to a local family, the Walshes. It became their family transportation until the parents passed away and their son Joe acquired it. However, he didn’t put it on the road. The vehicle remained unlicensed and moved around to a couple of Byron properties among other locations.

Welcome to our Meet and Greet Sunday, March 23 rd from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Presentation of our resort style living at 2:30 p.m.

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Enhancing the Skin’s Natural Beauty Dr. Faria Rubab and Dr. Aysha Kharal shared a vision that individuals could look and feel their best by enhancing their skin’s natural beauty. In May 2023, they opened Care Plus Medical Aesthetics as part of their already successful medical practice to offer clients a variety of treatments and services to do just that. “It’s what drives us to do what we do,” says Dr. Kharal. “We love to empower our clients by boosting their confidence and sense of well-being with the various aesthetic treatments we offer.” Those treatments include procedures like Intense Pulse Light (IPL), which helps reduce the appearance of several skin conditions like spider veins, age or sunspots, and uneven skin tone. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), another service available at the clinic, is a non-surgical hair loss procedure that reinjects a client’s platelets into their scalp to help prevent hair loss and promote healthy hair growth. It’s also used to manage joint pain and rejuvenate skin. Other services Dr. Kharal and Dr. Rubab provide include nutrition IV therapy, Botox, and laser hair removal, as well as other treatments for various skin problems, such as fine lines, rosacea, drooping jawlines, stretch marks, and scars. Clients book a consultation before they start any procedures so the doctors can review their medical history and determine the best treatment plan. People needing regular dermatological care are also welcome, but they need a referral from their family doctor. Dr. Rubab and Dr. Kharal bring 20 years of collective experience in family medicine, dermatology, and cosmetic procedures to their enterprise. Both clinic owners received their family medicine training from Western University. Dr. Rubab has an additional degree in Dermatology from Cardiff University in the United Kingdom and has been practicing in London for eight years. Dr. Kharal holds a Fellowship with the College of Family Physicians of Canada. She was certified by the Canadian Board of Aesthetic Medicine and has been practicing in London for 12 years. When looking for a location to open a clinic, Dr. Rubab and Dr. Kharal found that Byron did not have many medical services, making it an ideal spot. “First, we opened a medical clinic in 2019,” explains Dr. Rubab. “Then, in 2023, we added the medical aesthetics clinic in the same building. Byron is a beautiful part of the town, and we really love it here.” The staff at Care Plus Medical Aesthetics believe everyone should put their health and well-being before everything. “As physicians, we love helping people, whether we’re providing medical care or skin care,” adds Dr. Kharal. She and Dr. Rubab look forward to growing their business in Byron and supporting the wonderful community that has welcomed and supported them since they opened. The clinic is located at 1-1304 Commissioners Road West in Byron and is open Monday 12 to 4:30 pm, Tuesday and Thursday 9:30 to 4:30 pm, Wednesday and Friday 9:30 to 1 pm. To learn more or book a consultation, visit careplusmedicalaesthetics. com or call 226-663-0358.

Dr.Kharal

Dr.Rubab

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March 2025 Page 7

An update from Anna Hopkins Our Ward 9 City Councillor

Safety on Our Streets Having lived in the Byron area for over 35 years, I’ve seen firsthand how our streets have changed with increasing traffic. As new developments continue in Riverbend and Lambeth and existing neighbourhoods become more densely populated, traffic concerns will only grow. Speeding, cut-through traffic, failure to stop at stop signs, and the need for safer ways to move around our neighbourhoods are ongoing concerns I hear from Ward 9 residents. Ensuring safer streets is a shared responsibility—one that involves residents, local organizations, and all levels of government working together. The City of London is committed to improving road safety through its Vision Zero strategy, which aims to eliminate traffic- related deaths and serious injuries while promoting safe and accessible mobility for all. Some key initiatives include: · Respect the Limit Signs · Pedestrian Crossovers To further enhance safety, area speed limits in our neigh- bourhoods have been reduced to 40 km/h. Master Mobility Plan & Ward 9 Information Session The City of London is developing a Master Mobility Plan (MMP), which is expected to be approved this summer. I will be hosting an Information Session to discuss the updated plan and other Ward 9 issues: Wednesday, April 16th 6:00 – 8:00 PM L’Arche London, 4448 Colonel Talbot Rd., Lambeth I encourage you to attend and share your thoughts. · Active & Safe Routes to School · Automated Speed Enforcement · Protected Intersections & Bike Lanes · Red Light Cameras · Roundabouts

As a Candidate for Ward 9 in this year ’ s M will be a number of conversations that I wil constituents.

Reporting Road Safety Concerns To report road safety violations, you can contact: London Police Non-Emergency: 519-661-5670 Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222- TIPS (8477) With pothole season upon us, you can help by reporting road, sidewalk, or streetlight issues at service.london.ca or by calling 519-661-4660. Looking Ahead Ward 9 will see several road improvement projects in 2025, so please allow extra time for your daily commutes. Together, we can make our streets safer for everyone. If you’d like a Respect the Limit sign, feel free to reach out: Email: ahopkins@london.ca Website: www.annahopkins.ca Sign up for my newsletter to stay informed. Stay safe,

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Page 8

Harrison and Tecumseh Collide-Again

American Colonel James Johnson’s horsemen bite into the British line at full gallop. “Remember the Raisin!” they shout to each other as they tear through the thin British line. Proctor, seated on his horse halfway between the two British lines, looks at the six-pounder cannon on his left. “Damn that gun! Why does it not fire?” The Americans ride through the first line and then the second. They wheel around to attack the remaining British from the rear. The gun crew flees. Proctor, stunned by the suddenness of the defeat, prepares to leave. No more than five minutes have passed since the charge. He asks his aide, Brigade Major John Hall, “Could we not join the Natives?” Hall points out the mounted Americans already moving through the swamp between them and the Natives. Now Proctor is galloping along the road towards Moraviantown with the Americans in hot pursuit, the sound of Tecumseh’s battle cry echoing in his ears. Colonel James Johnson’s brother, Richard, is leading his own charge of twenty horsemen dubbed “The Forlorn Hope” since none of them expect to survive. The plan is for the twenty to ride ahead of the main body to draw the Native fire, thereby allowing the main body to attack while the Natives are reloading. The plan is working. Governor Shelby (after whom Fort Detroit was renamed a month ago), leads the American infantry against the Natives in the swamp at the edge of the battlefield as well as the swamp in the middle of the battlefield. The Forlorn Hope is cut to pieces by the Native firepower. Colonel Richard Johnson, riddled with musket balls does, however, survive and will go on to become a future vice-president. Despite all the din of shouting, shrieking, dying, whooping, groaning, whinnying, bugles, cannon and musket fire, there is one sound that somehow rises above it all...the sound of Tecumseh’s voice urging his followers on. That voice is seemingly everywhere London Animal Care Centre • 121 Pine Valley Blvd, London www.accpets.ca • (519)685-1330 “All they want for Christmas is You”

until suddenly, it isn’t. The voice of Tecumseh has been stilled. Suddenly, sensing the battle is over, the Natives disappear into the underbrush leaving the field to the Americans. Fifty-five minutes have elapsed since Harrison ordered the first charge. Tecumseh, to the Americans and in particular, the Kentuckians, is a figure of legend, clouded in myth, much hated yet very much admired. For all of Tecumseh’s fame, no white American on the field this day, save General Harrison, even knew what the Shawnee chief looked like. General Harrison walked among the fallen Natives yet even he, who once was crowded off a shared bench by Tecumseh, could not find him on the battlefield. To the rest of the Kentuckians, it didn’t matter. To them, every dead Native was Tecumseh and they proceeded to cut strips of skin off any Native’s body to take back home as a souvenir. So who actually killed Tecumseh? Many credit Colonel Richard

Johnson with the deed, which he discounted. So, where is Tecumseh? (To be continued...)

December

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March 2025 Page 9

Byron’s Dog Whisperer Donna Frezell may well be Byron’s very own dog whisperer. For 18 years, Donna has trained assistance dogs to help make life more manageable for people with various disabilities. While her business, Golden Opportunity Assistance Dogs (GOADogs), has evolved since 2006, Donna continues facilitating the independence of her clients. According to Donna, dogs can be trained to do almost anything a person with a disability requires, including mobility-related tasks like picking up dropped items, getting help, and retrieving medication. Dogs can also be trained to alert to blood glucose level changes, apply deep pressure to calm anxiety, interrupt unhelpful behaviours, or push lifeline alert buttons. The Grand Theatre’s renowned youth mentorship program, the High School Project (HSP) will celebrate its 26th anniversary with the Tony and Olivier award-winning Roald Dahl’s MATILDA the Musical (book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin). It will feature students on-stage and behind-the-scenes to take on roles such as stage management, props, wardrobe, scenic art, orchestra, sound, and entertainment marketing. The High School Project is open to any high school student from London and area who will be enrolled in high school in the fall of 2023, or participating in homeschooling. Ages generally range from 14 to 18. Visit www.grandtheatre.com/participate-high-school-project to learn more.www.grandtheatre.com/high-school-project Donna entered the service dog training world in her forties because she wanted to contribute more to the community. “I lived on a farm outside Byron and always loved animals,” Donna adds. “Growing up, I had several friends with disabilities. Some had service dogs, so it was right under my nose my entire life without realizing it.” After an apprenticeship learning to train dogs for seizure alert, narcolepsy, visual impairments, and wheelchair assistance, Donna received her Associate of Science Degree in Assistance Dog Education from Bergin University of Canine Studies in Santa Rosa, California. From 2006 to 2019, Donna ran a robust service dog training business in Byron that included in-house breeding and training her own golden retriever puppies for service. In 2015, Donna began teaching a full-day safety course – Pet CPR and First Aid – that she still offers today, and she recently added regular private pet training for all ages and dog breeds and occasional dog boarding and doggy daycare to her services. South Collegiate’s Emma Bishop, 2023 High School Project In 2019, Donna shifted her business focus to an owner-training model for financial reasons and because she saw a gap in the service dog industry. “For years people called wanting help training their own dog for service,” Donna explains. “I had to turn them down because I was too busy working with my own dogs, and until recently, there was no organization that would train outside dogs.” 350 Ridout S • (519) 601-3900 www.boldbeauty.ca The persistence of one mother who had called Donna years earlier seeking help is what convinced her to give the owner-training model a try. “This mother was still searching for help years later. I couldn’t ignore it.” Botox, Lip Filler, Dermal Filler, Laser Hair Removal, facials, hydrofacial, Indian head massage, microblading, permanent makeup, PRP, microneedling, Dermaplaning & more. Grand Theatre announces 2024 High School Project Face | Skin | Body Treatments Feel Great, Look Amazing Leading Skin Rejuvenation Clinic Enhance your natural beauty

Warm Hearts on the Coldest Night of the Year

TD Wortley Branch Manager Frances Distefano, and Manager Customer Experience Andressa Barros braved the cold Feb- ruary 24 and participated in Mission Service of London’s Coldest Night of the Year walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. “As leaders of the TD Wortley Branch, it is a mission of ours to lead by example when it involves supporting our community. We have a lot to be thankful for, therefore, being visible and taking action to support fundraising initiatives that help those less fortunate is priority more than ever,” said Andressa.

Donna Frezell and Astra.

Frances Distefano and Andressa Barros

^ǇŶĞƌŐŝĐdƌŝĂ WƌŝŶĐŝƉĂů/ŶǀĞƐƚŝŐĂƚŽƌ͗ ƌ͘ 'ĞƌŝĂƚƌŝĐDĞĚ

Example of an assistance dog at work.

Have you had changes in memory? Are you feeling forgetful?

4 A re you between 60 and 85 years old? 4 Are you feeling forgetful? D r. Montero-Odasso invites you to take part in a study from the comfort of your home that may help to improve your memory and thinking. For more information, contact (519) 685 4292 ext. 45629 or info@gaitandbrain.com We will provide you with information about the study and ask you questions about your memory and health. 45629

Principal Investigator: Dr. Montero-Odasso, Geriatric Medicine SynergicTrial.com

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Page 10 Byron Villager Page 10 Wortley Villager • April 2024

(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

As Byron’s dog whisperer, Donna feels that same bond with the community where she lives and works. “I love the people of Byron, and it will always be my home.” Donna is accepting new clients for service-related owner training and regular private pet training. For more information, email Info@ goadogs.ca or call 519-670-1809. For specific inquiries about Pet CPR and First Aid courses, email courses@goadogs.ca or visit www.goadogs.ca. Photos courtesy of Golden Opportunity Assistance Dogs Taylor and Levi are a fully owner-trained team who have been working together since Covid.

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. With the owner-training model, Donna can now help people with brain injuries affecting cognition or balance, milder developmental disabilities, mental health, PTSD, diabetes, and seizure-related conditions, giving them freedom, security, and independence they might not have otherwise. A person’s condition may even be rehabilitated to a certain degree by helping train a service dog where other healthcare modalities, like physiotherapy, don’t work. The challenge, however, is that service dog training comes at a cost, and not everyone who could benefit from having a service dog can afford the training. This is where Donna’s Pet CPR and First Aid course helps. All first aid course fees and pet training fees help subsidize the service dog training costs. “Dogs add so much to our lives and service dogs add an extra layer for people who need support,” adds Donna. “Almost anything is possible with a strong bond between an owner and their dog and a commitment to the relationship.” Nancey and Hazelle are a new owner-training team in progress. This is Hazelle’s first day with Nancey.

STARK & CO. Painting and Trim Specializing in residential interior and exterior painting and the removal and replacement of baseboard trim.

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March 2025 Page 11

The Legacy of the Opti-Mrs. Club of Byron

The Optimist Club of Byron was founded in 1950 by a group of dedicated men committed to the organization’s threefold foundation: fellowship, community service, and leadership. The club remains a pillar in the community, proudly celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. However, when it started, membership was exclusive to men. Recognizing the need for a women’s auxiliary group, the wives of the Byron Optimists gathered on October 8, 1953, with the Presidents from the London and Lambeth Opti-Mrs. Clubs to establish a club in Byron. They met at the Cobblestone Inn (now the Hermitage Club) before relocating to the Seven Dwarfs Restaurant on Wharncliffe. Fundraising became a significant focus for the women, with Bridge tournaments emerging as one of their most successful efforts and later adding Euchre tournaments. They volunteered countless hours to organize other community events to raise money. In their first decade, they ran Teen Town Dances and movie nights, using the proceeds to furnish the Youth Centre on Norman Avenue with equipment, drapes, and decorations. The Opti-Mrs. Club of Byron donated to numerous charitable organizations over their years together, including the Red Cross, Cancer Society, and Canadian Mental Health Association among others. The women also established an annual bursary fund for a female student from Saunders Secondary School who demonstrated a strong commitment to the Byron community. These community-minded women spent countless hours planning and chaperoning events, operating concessions, making popcorn, and cleaning up afterward. They operated the food booth at the Byron Sports Complex for years, often working from 7 am to 11 pm. Their dedication extended to the Komoka Nursing Home in 1969, where they provided companionship and support to residents for many years. They also played a vital role in supporting Byron girls’ baseball and launching other Opti-Mrs. Clubs in nearby communities. While dedication to service remained at the heart of the club, the friendships formed within this group of Byron women became equally meaningful. They not only worked together for the

CLUB

Opti-Mrs. 1992.

Opti-Mrs. 1998.

Marg Ferrier, Lillian Coates, Betty Verheul and Helen Roberts.

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Page 12 Byron Villager

betterment of their community, but they also shared in each other’s lives, planning dinners and outings throughout the year. As their club membership declined, the women still met once a month for luncheons. With COVID, this activity was halted. Today, the Opti-Mrs. Club of Byron doesn’t have official status but continues as a group of close-knit friends who remain committed to supporting one another and their community. Current members include Bette Angyal, Doreen Balderston, Marg Blevins, Sandra Davies, Ruth Dean, Betty Ferguson, Mary Fran Mahoney, Lou Quayle, and Carol St. Antoine. Reflecting on their experiences, Doreen finds satisfaction in knowing they made a meaningful contribution to the community. Carol credits their involvement to the values instilled in them from a young age, saying, “We grew up with the example of helping one another in the community, so naturally, we all wanted to help where we could.”

Mary Fran recalls the many rides she provided to sporting events and community gatherings, laughing, “If you drove a car, you were on call!” Ruth highlights an unexpected benefit of service work, noting, “You learn so much about the community by volunteering.” Marg adds, “It’s just a way of life—very fulfilling.” Betty and Sandra agree that the friendships they’ve built over the years have been invaluable, emphasizing the comfort of knowing there is always a kind heart to lean on. When Optimist International allowed women to join in 1987, many Opti-Mrs. Clubs across Canada dissolved. The Opti-Mrs. Club of Byron, however, remained active for over 60 years. As Byron reflects on the decades of service provided by these remarkable women, the community extends its deepest gratitude. Their dedication, hard work, and compassion have left a lasting impact, shaping Byron into the strong and connected community it is today.

Opti-Mrs. Club 2025 (Back Row) Carol-Ann St. Antoine, Doreen Balderston, Sandra Davies, Ruth Dean (Front row) Betty Ferguson, Marg Blevins, Mary-Fran Mahoney.

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March 2025 Page 13

Out of the Woods and Into the Village by Donna Costa, Anne Kay, Brenda Martin, Martha Morrison Writing can be a solitary craft. Since 2007, the London Writers Society (LWS) has created a community for local writers, offering workshops and events to hone their skills and promote their work. With over 100 talented members, the Society was inspired to produce a collection of short stories and poems, titled Out of the Woods: Voices from the Forest City. This anthology is scheduled to launch June 3, 2025. For the anthology, LWS members were invited to submit stories and poems for consideration by a panel of local First Reader judges including award-winning Byron author, Barbara Haworth-Attard. “It was inspiring to read other writers’ work, their choice of words and how they strung those words together, but also to see the development of many layered characters and the wide variety of interpretations of Out of the Woods, ” says Barbara. The First Readers generated a longlist for renowned London author Emma Donoghue, who selected 44 pieces for publication. Among the finalists are three Byron authors: JR Boudreau wrote Megatheria. “I took a two-year break from writing after the birth of my daughter; it felt silly in comparison to the creativity of this wild little being. Then I heard about the anthology,” he says. “The idea of Emma Donoghue, whose Room I adore, casting her eyes on my work was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.” Playwright and journalist Jan Sims penned Schrödinger’s Hamster . According to Jan, “It’s a tale about hamsters, humility, and the power of hope. I’m so thrilled to be part of the anthology with such a talented group of writers.” Charlotte Broadfoot, also known under the pen name Charlotte Helion, wrote Stumped. “I have never understood why short stories are regarded as the ‘poor cousin’ of the novel,” reflects Charlotte. “Within the confines of a condensed format, short stories are challenging, maybe even more than novels, and require great skill.” A grant to the Society from the London Arts Council through the City of London’s Community Arts Investment Program provided a crucial financial boost for the anthology, but funding is still needed to cover publishing costs. Individuals or AUTO DETAILING and auto Sanitization Yearly Exterior Car Wash Club Membership Available

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businesses wanting to support London and area writers can visit www.londonwriterssociety.ca/anthology. On April 5, 2025, the community is invited to discover and meet local writers at the LWS Spring Book Fair from 10 am to 3 pm at St. Anne’s Anglican Church, 1344 Commissioners Road West, in Byron. The event will include readings from local authors throughout the day. As well, light refreshments and books in a variety of genres will be for sale.

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Byron Villager Crossword International Women’s Day: Female Canadian Celebrities

Across 1. Blue album artist, Mitchell 4. Jagged Little Pill singer 6. Canadian songstress, Sarah 8. Baywatch star, Anderson

Down 1. Make You A Believer singer, Sass 2. Titanic theme song artist 3. Constant Craving singer, k.d. 5. Queen of Country Pop 7. Only female Prime Minister of Canada, Kim 11. Dilemma rapper, Nelly 12. Comedian and star of Schitt’s Creek 13. Olympic swimmer from London, MacNeil

9. Lois Lane of the orignal Superman films, Margo 10. Popular actress from the silent film era, Mary 13. Mean Girls actress 14. Insensitive singer, Jann 16. Champion figure skater, Tessa 18. Complicated singer

15. You Needed Me singer, Anne 17. Black Velvet singer, Allanah

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March 2025 Page 15

Byron Legion January 2025 Calendar | 1276 Commissioners Road West (519)-472-3300 Monday to Friday 12pm – 10pm, Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 7pm

Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day, a time for revelry and wearing green to celebrate all things Irish. However, St. Patrick’s Day began as a religious feast day, honouring the patron saint of Ireland and commemorating the anniversary of his death in 461 CE. St. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland in the last half of the third century. Many legends have arisen since his death, including one tale that proclaims he rid Ireland of all its snakes. St. Patrick is also said to have used the three leaves of the shamrock, Ireland’s national plant, to explain Christianity’s Holy Trinity to his followers. Today, it is celebrated by wearing green clothes, sporting shamrock decorations, and drinking green beer.

Food Has a Way of Bringing Us Together A delicious meal has a way of drawing us close. At Riverstone Retirement Residence, we serve fresh, home-cooked meals in a setting that blends elegance with comfort, making every meal feel special. Pull up a chair, savour the warmth of delicious food, and cherish the company of good friends. Call today to book your complimentary lunch and tour!

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Page 16 Byron Villager

Paint What You Love Drawing and painting are what Dorothy Adams’ loves to do. Whether she is in the car, on the beach, or in her backyard, Dorothy will draw and take pictures of whatever catches her eye. These captured moments then become her models and inspiration for the studio. “I’ll see something that holds my attention and wonder if I can paint that,” explains Dorothy. “I love challenging myself. For example, when sketching red currants, I want to see if I can translate the translucent light of the berries using pencil.” Dorothy has been developing her artistic skills since she was seven years old when she started oil painting classes. Working with oils eventually led to other media, including graphite,

“It was so rewarding seeing their eyes light up when they finished their art,” Dorothy recalls. Dorothy has also written, illustrated, and published two books, Watercolour Memories – Seasons of My Childhood and All in a Chipmunk’s Day, which has found a home in the Library of Congress. In reflecting on her many years creating beauty with brush, pencil and pen, Dorothy notes that she simply does what makes her heart sing and advises all aspiring artists to do the same. “Anyone can learn to draw or paint,” encourages Dorothy. “Take lessons and never give up.” Dorothy paints under the name Dorothy d.hunter Adams and you can see more of her work by visiting www.dorothyhunteradams.com, www.brushandpaletteclub.com and www.gallerypaintinggroup.com.

Dorothy painting at Ronald McDonald House.

watercolour and acrylics. She’s taken classes and workshops over the years, pushing herself to try new things even if she didn’t think she’d like something. “I wasn’t interested in doing portraits but took a class because it was the only one available,” shares Dorothy. “I knew I could learn something, and now portraits are my passion.” Besides portraits, Dorothy’s portfolio includes landscapes, still life, and murals. She’s painted several, including several in the children’s playroom at Ronald McDonald House. Born and raised in Chatham, Ontario, Dorothy worked as a secretary at Union Gas (now Enbridge) for 32 years, retiring in 1998, at which time she married Don Adams, and moved to the top of Snake Hill just outside of Byron. After moving to London, Dorothy joined various art clubs and became well-established in the city’s art community, with her work being displayed at several shows over the years. Dorothy belongs to the Brush and Palette Club and the Gallery Painting Group, both of which showcase members’ work during annual art shows. Dorothy’s artistic path has taken her down many roads, including finding creative ways to use her work for the greater good. Organizations like Compassion Canada and Habitat for Humanity have raised money for critical projects thanks to artwork Dorothy has donated. She has also given freely of her time to bring art into the community. Two examples close to Dorothy’s heart include her and Don helping with art shows held by L’Arche London and creating the Different Strokes Art Club at Longworth Retirement Village, where she taught art to residents, a labour of love that she retired from in 2024 after 21 years.

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March 2025 Page 17

out for one another, and to use zipper merging to maximize all the lanes available. Other construction projects planned for 2025 will be announced as part of the City of London’s annual Renew Report, which will be released in March 2025. Another confirmed project to be aware of as you plan your commutes this summer is on Byron Bridge, which will be undergoing important repairs for approximately eight weeks starting in July 2025. For ongoing updates about the Oxford and Gideon Roundabout, check the City’s Get Involved website: www. getinvolved.london.ca/oxfordgideon.

Construction update: Oxford Street West and Gideon Drive Intersection Improvements by Andrea Rosebrugh

Those of us through the area of Oxford Street West and Gideon Drive over the past year have had a close look at one of the City’s largest infrastructure projects, the Oxford and Gideon Roundabout. The City of London began building a roundabout at the intersection of Oxford Street West and Gideon Drive in spring of 2024 as part of ongoing improvements to London’s transportation and mobility network. The project is adding above ground improvements, including cycle

tracks and sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, landscaping, and streetlighting, while repairing and replacing underground infrastructure. Roundabouts improve traffic flow while increasing the safety and comfort for all people navigating through the area, no matter how they choose to travel. Work on the roundabout project is expected to finish up this summer, so we’re in for another season of important construction work. We are reminding drivers to give themselves extra time when driving through the area, to look

An artistic rendering of the completed Oxford and Gideon Roundabout.

Employee of the Month January

Nowadays excellent customer service is considered as the biggest merit that a company can earn. It is the attribute that people value more than good price of a product or even more than its quality. Byron Pizza has always exceeded in customer service and now we’d like to recognize these valuable employees.

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100 Women Who Care Returns to London & Area

C) ll it r e ’t st r d s 5 a

Got 60 minutes four times a year? Want to make a difference in your local community by combining your $100 donation with other philanthropically minded women who want to give back? Want to learn about local charities? 100 Women Who Care London is for you! The concept is simple: At each of four quarterly meetings, the women in attendance are presented with two randomly chosen local charities. Each charity presents for five minutes, and the women vote for the charity they want to support. The charity with the most votes will receive the entire collective’s donation that evening. Meetings are scheduled for only one hour. Charities are nominated by the Chapter’s members and randomly chosen to present. The charity must be local, and the donation must stay in the London and surrounding area to be considered. Donations are made directly to the charity, so all donations are tax-deductible. London has a history with the 100 Women Who Care concept. The first chapter was started by Susan Nickle and Twee Brown in 2012. It ended around 2017 and donated over $500,000 to local charities. Barb Botten and Suzanne McAllister (both from Byron) heard about the organization from a member of the Chatham-Kent Chapter. After discovering that there wasn’t an active chapter in London, Barb and Suzanne decided to relaunch the group for London and Area.

Chapter meeting dates for 2025: February 25, May 27, August 19 and November 25. To join or learn more, visit www.100womenwhocarelondon.com or find 100+WomenWhoCare-London&Area on Facebook.

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