Hometown Strathroy - Caradoc June 2025 Issue 54
boxes, a shade structure, parking, a pathway connecting Spen- ce Drive to Park Street, and an exploration trail. Most of the work is expected to be completed in 2025. The $24,500 in total PTP funding will be specifically used for a tool storage shed, signage, fencing around the gardens, and a water tank. Additionally, the project received $10,000 in funding from Tree Canada through the Community Tree Grants program. This funding helped support the orchard portion of the project with the planting of various apple, pear, peach, and other edible va- rieties. We are grateful to Tree Canada for helping add to a sus- tainable and productive project. The garden has been officially approved to be named the “Arda Falconer Memorial Community Garden” for the next 20 years, in honor of the Falconer family’s generous contributions to the project. Learn more about Municipal Parks and Facilities at www.strath- roy-caradoc.ca. Photos courtesy of the Strathroy-Caradoc Municipality
Arda Falconer Memorial Community Garden by the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc
The Municipality of Strath- roy-Caradoc recently host- ed the grand opening of the new Arda Memorial Com- munity Garden located at 231 Park Street, Strathroy. The park consists of many amenities that include a series of ground plots and accessible garden boxes that are available to the community for rent.
Falconer Family
This project was made possible by many great community groups and volunteers came together in a short period of time to make it all happen. Strathroy-Caradoc Council approved $14,500 in funding for a new Community Garden from the 2025 Progress Through Part- nership Program (PTP) to match recent contributions by Gary Falconer Limited, Holy Cross Secondary School Construction Guild, Telha E-top Metal Roofs, and Acorn Tree Service. This is in addition to the $10,000 contribution from the Strathroy Ro- tary Club that was matched with PTP funds from the 2024 program. Thanks to the generous support of these local businesses and community groups, the garden is set to include multiple garden
Memorial Bench within the Garden
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He wanted to meet with me to get his affairs in order before the metaphorical bottom of the ninth inning. He started our chat by telling me he hated funerals but felt it was important to have some kind of “do” for the family when the time came. We talked all afternoon and to- gether came up with a plan that he felt would give his friends and family a pos- itive way to say goodbye. When the time came to say farewell to
Redefining Farewells by Bill Denning About 25 years ago, I began to see “the change” in funeral service. As a newly licensed funeral director, I was incredibly proud to get to offer the service I was schooled to provide. The problem was, not everyone wanted what I was of- fering. The casket, the pre-printed card with the praying hands and of course, the hole in the ground to accommodate the casket. We had to figure out how to change what we were doing by our listening to
Killer, we did it his way and honoured his amazing life with his music, his stories and his legacy. His greatest fans all said it was unique and positive, just like Mike. The time of change has come and funerals or “send-offs” are now the unique experience they should be. If done right, friends and family walk away from a memorial gathering feeling better connected to each other and glad they took the time to support one another. Yogi also said, “Always go to other people's funerals, otherwise they won't come to yours.”
the families we served rather than telling them, “this is the way we do it”. Gone were the days of everyone doing the same thing when it came to honouring their loved ones at the time of death. At the root of all the change was value. If there isn’t perceived value in a service, why would you pay? Too many times, I’ve heard from people who attended a funeral for someone they cared about and had to check they were in the right room for the right person. A saintly and celestial homily for a fisherman is fine, but not if fishing isn’t mentioned. People have changed how we celebrate life by creating meaning- ful ceremonies, tailored to be reflective of every life. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to meet one of my grand- father’s baseball heroes, Detroit Tigers’ Mike “Killer” Kilkenny.
Denning's of Strathroy 32 Metcalf St. W. Strathroy www.strathroyfuneralhome.com 519-245-1023
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Breakfast with the ROMEOs Every Thursday morning, as the sun peeks over Strathroy, Ontario, a legendary gathering un- folds at Roy’s Family Restaurant. This isn't just any breakfast club—it's the ROMEOs: Retired Old Men Eating Out, a playful name given to themselves. A band of brothers who've traded their high school lockers for motorcycle saddles and their youthful mischief for dad jokes (well, mostly). Derek, Tam, Mike, Adrien, and Barry—names that echo through the halls of Saunders Second - ary School in London—have been riding the rollercoaster of life together for over half a century. Lee joined more recently but seamlessly blended in, like maple syrup on pancakes. From the thrill of first loves to the chaos of raising kids, they've seen it all. Now, as fathers and seasoned riders, they find solace in the sizzle of bacon and the warmth of shared memories. Their chosen pit stop? Roy’s Family Restaurant at 273 Caradoc Street South — a cozy diner where the coffee is strong, the portions are hearty, and the owners, Mario and Melissa, serve up smiles alongside pancakes. Roy’s was chosen because it has great food and is central for these guys. They come in each week from Sarnia, Grand Bend, Port Stanley and London. It's a place where the walls have absorbed decades of laughter, and the air is thick with the aroma of nostalgia. The menu boasts everything from classic breakfast skillets to their famous Reuben sandwiches, ensuring no ROMEO leaves hungry. So, if you ever find yourself in Strathroy on a Thursday morning, listen for the roar of motorcycles and the unmistakable sound of camaraderie. The ROMEOs will be there, proving that age is just a number and friendship is timeless. And to these men, Happy Father's Day! Your enduring friendship and shared adventures are a testament to the joy of fatherhood and the bonds that only grow stronger with time. May your rides be smooth, your breakfasts hearty, and your stories ever entertaining. Did You Know? Villager Publications serves 12 communities in London and the surrounding area with our month- ly, community-focused magazines. Each issue is locally printed and delivered through Canada Post, with additional copies available at local pickup locations. You can also read the latest six issues online at www.villagerpublications.com. Interested in supporting local communities through advertising? Want to share a story idea, event, or someone doing something great in your neighbourhood? We'd love to hear from you!
Hometown Strathroy- Caradoc Issue #54 June 2025 Your local community connector The 100% locally owned and produced Hometown Strathroy- Caradoc 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 Manager: Lynne WIlliams All articles by Lynne Williams unless noted otherwise Graphic Artist: Jon Botten Advertising: Gloria Rae Gloria@villagerpublications.com 519-495-4564 Debbie Mindorff Debbie@villagerpublications.com 519-870-3203 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 Happy Father's Day to the ROMEOs taken at Roys Family Restaurant. See story on the right.
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 organi- zations, 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.
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025
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So, now that we know what the community is thinking, the question is, “What are we doing about it?” Identifying the issues is one thing, fix - ing it is another. Here is what is happening at Town Hall as I write this: A cross-departmental team, comprised of staff and managers, has been formed to lead the initiative. They are proactively working on a new strategy that will include Council, staff and the public. Part of that strategy includes focus groups. We are exploring new ways to interact and engage with the public, as well. Included in all of this will be the creation of Customer Ser- vice standards. More information will come in the next few months, but we are committed to providing ex- cellent customer service. We recognize we can do better, and we strive to do so.
Mayor’s Message Elected officials often get accused of not lis - tening to the concerns of the citizens they rep - resent, and letting reports and studies sit on a shelf and gather dust. Both are valid criticisms. What I am going to report on this month is a concern and area for improvement that we have heard loud and clear needs attention: Customer service. It is a topic that affects ev- eryone in Strathroy-Caradoc, and in some cas- es, people from outside our community. Customer service, and how we deliver it to you, was initially identified by Council in the Stra - tegic Plan as something we wanted to focus on. We undertook the Service Delivery review in 2024 to help us understand where the gaps are. All of us, Council and staff, have heard from the public that it needs improvement. We heard this, not just from residents, but also from the business sector – developers, build- ers and tradespeople. The service delivery re- view allowed us to drill down further and truly understand the concerns. Comments we heard included having a “live” person answering calls, unacceptable length of time to return calls, messages and emails, trouble with using electronic services such as Building Permits, to name a few.
Colin
Colin Grantham, Mayor 519.245.1105 x 251 cgrantham@strathroy-caradoc.ca www.strathroy-caradoc.ca
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025
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Two Wheels, One Passion For Cheryl May, the sound of an engine revving up is more than just noise, it’s music. A long-time Strathroy resident and devoted motorcycle enthusiast, Cheryl sees motorcycling as a lifestyle that brings freedom, connection, and responsibility. “Motorcy - cling is more than just a mode of transportation,” she says. “It’s a passion and a lifestyle.” By day, Cheryl is the Safety and Training Manager at Langs Bus Lines, a role she’s held for over 40 years. Her commitment to safety and education runs deep, and it doesn't stop when she clocks out. During the warmer months, she commutes to work on her trusty Vespa scooter, but weekends and holidays are reserved for the open road, where she takes out her Harley-Da- vidson and rides for the pure joy of it. “Nothing looks the same when you get on a bike,” Cheryl says with a smile. Her journey into the world of motorcycles began decades ago with a decision that would shape her life. Wanting to ensure she had a solid foundation, Cheryl enrolled in the Fanshawe Motor- cycle Training Course. It was a natural fit; her safety-conscious mindset aligned perfectly with the course’s focus on skilled, responsible riding. Today, that same training course remains a cornerstone of the region’s motorcycle education. The Fanshawe Motorcycle Training Course welcomes riders of all experience levels, from first-timers who’ve never sat on a bike to seasoned motorcyclists seeking to refresh their skills. Cheryl’s positive experience inspired her to give back. In 2008, she became an instructor at the college. “I wanted to see safe riders on the road,” she says, and she’s been helping shape them ever since. With a dedicated team of 32 instructors, many of whom have taught for years, the Fanshawe program is known for its thor- ough and supportive approach. “We are very patient and thor - ough with all levels of riders,” Cheryl explains. Mike Harrison, the program’s lead instructor, echoes this sentiment. “Fanshawe offers the Registered Signing Authorities testing in-house, which showcases our commitment to producing riders who not only have the skills but also meet the highest standards of safety.” After the course, licenses are issued by Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation. Mike, who started riding in the early ’80s, brings a wealth of experience to the program. Even after 25 years on the road, he gained new insights when he took the course himself. “I learned many new things and realized that I had formed some bad hab -
Cheryl May
its that needed correcting,” he says. Now head of the depart- ment, Mike plays a key role in keeping the curriculum current and relevant, including offering an “Exit Course” for both new riders and experienced ones looking for a refresher. As motorcycling gains popularity, one notable trend stands out: more women are joining the riding community. “We’ve seen an increase in female riders over the years,” says Cheryl, noting that about 20% of her classes now include women. It's a shift she finds encouraging and empowering. Beyond the training and technical skills, there’s a strong sense of community among riders. A peace sign exchanged on the road is more than a gesture, it’s a symbol of mutual respect and understanding. “There’s a unique camaraderie among riders that transcends age, background, or even the type of bike you ride,” Mike explains. Motorcyclists often gather for group rides, rallies, and charity events. The Strathroy Motorcycle Club, a local chapter of the Canadian Motorcycle Cruisers, meets every Monday at 6:30 p.m. in the Staples parking lot for a weekly ride—weather per - mitting. Safety reminders kick off each ride, reinforcing the val- ues Cheryl and her fellow instructors emphasize. The riding community looks out for its own, whether it’s sharing stories at bike nights or stopping to help a stranded rider on the roadside. It’s a culture of connection, fueled by the open road and a shared love for two wheels. “We want everyone to enjoy riding as much as we do,” say Cheryl and Mike. If you're considering taking up motorcycling or want to brush up on your skills, Cheryl, Mike and the team at Fanshawe are ready to help you ride safely and confidently. For more information, visit the Fanshawe College Motorcycle Course website and take your first step toward joining a pas - sionate, welcoming and safety-minded riding community.
Strathroy Motorcycle Club
Mike Harrison
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025
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pharmacists’ scope of practice in Ontario, pharmacists are now able to prescribe antibiotics for tick bite prophylaxis. So, start by contacting your pharmacy if you experience a tick bite. If symp- toms of Lyme disease appear, treatment involves antibiotics that must be prescribed by a doctor. The nature and duration of the treatment depends on the stage of infection and symptoms. The best prevention is to avoid being bitten by an infected tick. Here are some precautions you can take to protect yourself: • When walking in the woods, stay on the trail; • When walking in tall grasses or wooded areas, wear pants and tuck them into your socks, a long-sleeved shirt that is fitted at the wrists and tucked into your pants, and closed shoes and a hat; • Wear long and light-coloured clothing to make it easier to spot ticks; • Use insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin on exposed parts of the body, avoiding the face; • Inspect yourself, others, pets and equipment for ticks when returning from a risk area; • If you are bitten, remove the tick from the skin as quickly as possible using tweezers or a special tick removal tool. Grasp it as close to the skin's surface as possible (not by its body) and pull upward without twisting. www.guardian-ida-remedysrx.ca/en/article/health/lyme-disease There is no treatment that can “cure” Alzheimer’s disease, nor are there medication that can halt or reverse the brain damage caused by it. How- ever, there are medications that can relieve symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Medications such as donepezil*, riv- astigmine, and galantamine may be used to slow down memory loss. Prevention of stroke is important for vascular dementia. If you have high blood pressure or cholesterol, transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), or have had a stroke, you should seek continued treatment for these conditions to prevent future strokes. The key to caring for and helping people with dementia is to focus on the many activities the person can still do safely. Encourage a person with dementia to continue daily routines and maintain social relationships as much as possible. Help them maintain a healthy lifestyle through exer- cise, proper nutrition, and fluid intake. Special diets and supplements are generally unnecessary. If you are caring for someone with dementia, the following may be help- ful: reminders: Provide written lists of things to do including times, places, and phone numbers to help the person complete the task. structure and stability: Minimize undue noise and disturbances to re- duce anxiety. establish routines: Daily and bedtime routines can reduce disorientation and anxiety. speaking slowly and calmly: Present one thought or instruction at a time. To advertise here please contact Gloria@villagerpublications.com SEPTIC TANK PUMPING information card: Reduce the risk of wandering and getting lost by pro- viding a pocket card with the person’s name, address, and phone num- ber. safety: Make your home environment as safe as possible by keeping furniture in the same place, removing clutter, installing locks on medi- cine cabinets, and setting the water heater at a low temperature to avoid scalding. driving: Don’t allow someone with dementia to drive a vehicle. Drive them or arrange for rides wherever they need to go. Caring for someone with dementia can be difficult. It requires under - standing, patience, and compassion. Joining an Alzheimer’s disease caregiver’s support group in your community may be helpful. Be prepared for the eventuality that your loved one’s condition will dete- riorate over time and additional full-time personal care may be needed. In some situations, placement in a nursing home is in the best interests of the individual and their family. Peter Semchism is a Pharmacist at Greenhills Pharmacy in Lambeth. Offer expires September 30, 2020 Still going across town for prescription refills? We can make life simpler. Ask us about easy prescription transfers. • Avoid the sun when it’s at its peak. It’s strongest between 11 am and 4 pm, so use that time to do activities indoors if possible. • If you are applying other products to the skin, double check with your pharmacist about which product to use first. For example, insect repellants should be applied at least 15 minutes after applying sunscreen. Always keep in mind that we are here for you and your needs. Please feel free to give us a call. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your health or medications. You can reach us at 519-652-9066 Peter Semchism is a Pharmacist at Greenhills Pharmacy in Lambeth. Monday-Friday 9am-5:30pm Since 1974 10055 Carter Rd. Let us make the Custom Made, Locally Built Shed Your Back Yard Deserves! Hand Crafted – Custom Built Mini Barns • Work Sheds • Play Houses Pool Change Rooms Looking for a New Shed this Summer?
Your Pharmacists can help with Medication Questions Pharmacist Meagan McGill
Tick Bites and Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is an infection caused by bacteria in the Borrelia family. The first symptoms of Lyme disease usu - ally appear within 3 to 30 days after the bite. If left untreated, symptoms will progress over the course of the following weeks and months. HEALTH & WELLNESS by Peter Semchism No Such Thing as a Healthy Tan here is a common myth that if a person tans well, they’re otected from these harmful rays. Not true! While it is true that r-haired, blue-eyed people are most prone to burning, and erefore are more susceptible to the sun’s rays, even tans are ally just damage control – they’re your body’s way of trying to otect itself from the sun. But the damage is already done and n’t be reversed. Years of sun worshipping, be it outside or in a nning salon, will eventually show up later on in life as wrinkles, or skin elasticity, and possibly skin cancer. The most common symptom is reddening of the skin. It devel- ops around the bite area, most frequently on the thighs, groin, armpits and torso. With every passing day, the rash spreads quickly, extending over 5 centimetres. In addition to the red- ness, other symptoms may occur: 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. Dementia is not a specific disease, but a general term that describes a gradual decline of mental ability that affects your intellectual and social skills to the point where daily life becomes difficult. Dementia can affect your memory, language skills and decision-making ability; impair your judgment and make you feel disoriented; and it may also affect your personality. Causes and Triggers Lyme disease is spread to humans through the bite of infected ticks. For ticks to develop, they must feed on animal or human blood. Their bites are usually painless and often go unnoticed. Before feeding, an adult tick measures between 1 and 3 milli- metres, but can triple in volume when filled with blood, reaching the size of an apple seed. Ticks that have not reached adulthood are known as nymphs, and can also transmit Lyme disease. At the nymph stage, they are very small and because they remain virtually undetected, they are able to stay attached to skin longer. Generally speak- ing, an infected tick must be attached to skin for 24 hours or more before it can transmit the disease to a human. Many of us often experience forgetfulness. We may forget where we put the car keys or repeat the same story to a friend or family member. These behaviours are usually caused by the information overload of our busy, stressful lives – it doesn’t mean that we’re developing dementia. As people age, they may experience memory changes such as slowing of information processing. This type of change is normal and doesn’t interfere with day-to-day functioning. By contrast, dementia is disabling and not a normal part of aging. Although dementia often presents itself differently from person to per- son, common symptoms include: gradual loss of memory of recent events and lack of ability to learn new things increasing tendency to repeat oneself, misplacing objects, becoming confused and lost in familiar places slow disintegration of judgment and reasoning abilities Ticks do not jump or fly. They are normally found in forests, woods, tall grasses and piles of dead leaves. Ticks that transmit Lyme disease are found throughout Canada, the United States and in other countries. Treatment If you were recently bitten by a tick, a preventive treatment may be prescribed. With the addition of minor ailment prescribing to increasing irritability, anxiety, depression, confusion, and restlessness increasing communication and language difficulties (forgetting words or substituting incorrect words) changes in personality, behaviour, or mood decreasing ability to focus and pay attention inability to plan and carry out tasks that require multiple steps (e.g. pay - ing bills). STARK & CO. Painting and Trim Specializing in residential interior and exterior painting and the removal and replacement of baseboard trim. To be diagnosed with dementia, the symptoms must be severe enough to affect a person’s independence and their ability to perform everyday activities. Symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the cause. For example, people with Lewy body dementia often have long-lasting visual hallu- cinations. Some forms of dementia also tend to affect people younger than others and progress faster. Treatment and Prevention ere are some basic rules: Cover up whenever possible. A longer cotton skirt, for example, might feel cooler on a hot day than a pair of shorts, and will help guard you from the sun. Page 8 Treatment of dementia may depend on the specific cause. Treatment of Alzheimer’s disease usually involves treating the declining memory and gradually worsening behavioural symptoms with a range of medications (which may also be used in other forms of dementia), including: cognitive enhancing agents Wear a hat. Hats keep the sun’s rays off the scalp, face, and back of the neck, prime areas for skin cancer. A good hat will also shelter and protect your eyes from the sun’s powerful rays. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you go out, even if the sun doesn’t seem particularly strong, or it is cloudy. Damaging ultraviolet rays can still penetrate clouds, so don’t take a chance. Always apply sunscreen that has a minimum Kaedon J. Stark (519) 872-0347 StarkPaintingAndTrim@Gmail.com CALL, TEXT OR EMAIL FOR A FREE QUOTE & CONSULTATION Stark.PaintingTrim StarkPaintingTrim Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025 Workers with Pride! (226) 998-8703 Enhance Physical Health, Confidence and Self Esteem with Sifu Carlos Ferraz Peter Semchism 190 Wortley Rd. Martial Arts and Wellness Programs in the Heart of Wortley Village Dementia Could Happen to Anyone… Because Everyone Ages. The Facts Dementia can be caused by many diseases that affect the brain. The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease. Others in- clude vascular, Lewy body, frontotemporal and mixed dementia. Types of dementia differ based on underlying causes and can affect specific symptoms and how it progresses. Symptoms and Complications s with most good things, moderation and good sense are the ys. The goal is to have fun outside but to stay safe at the me time. · Fatigue · Fever · Headache · Muscle and joint pain · Neck stiffness
The Wright Foundation is the Wright Place
The Wright Family Performing Arts and Entertainment Centre Foundation was created in 2012 to support arts and enter- tainment in Strathroy, thanks to the vision and bequests of the Wright Family. This vision included developing a performing arts centre in downtown Strathroy that would allow artists to create and showcase their craft and a place where the community can come and enjoy it. The Wright Foundation supports the Strathroy-Caradoc arts community through grants for artists and art organizations and sponsorships of art-based events, such as Karaoke Idol at the 2025 Strathroy Hometown Festival. In 2023, the second part of the Wright family’s vision began crystalizing at The Wright Place, 13 Front Street West, a 10,000 sq. ft. space that the foundation is renovating into a multi-use performing arts centre that will ultimately have a gallery, theatre, rehearsal and workshop space, meeting rooms, and potentially an event venue. In the meantime, events are already happening at The Wright Place. Musicians Tim Schou and Laura Gagnon performed in May, and Fridge Door Live Theatre Company’s production of Blue Side Up runs June 7th and 8th. Visit www.wrightfoundation.ca to learn more about the Wright Family Performing Arts and Entertainment Centre Foundation and The Wright Place, including upcoming events. Mermaid Marshmallow Pie from the Broadway show Waitress Submitted by Keith Blackwell, President, The Wright Foundation Ingredients: 9 graham crackers 1/2 cup sweetened, flaked coconut, toasted 5 tbsp butter or margarine, melted 34 large marshmallows (8 oz) 1/2 cup whole milk 1 1/2 cup heavy or whipping cream 1 oz unsweetened chocolate, grated Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. 2. Combine coconut and graham crackers in food processor until coarse crumbs form. 3. Combine crumbs and butter with fork. Press to bottom and side of 9-inch pie plate. 4. Bake 10 minutes and cool on wire rack. 5. Heat marshmallows and milk in 3-qt saucepan over low heat until smooth, stirring constantly.
A house in Strathroy that was formerly owned by a Wright family member was being renovated and when they opened a wall, this painting was found painted on the concrete block foundation wall. Keith Blackwell photographed it to create a high-resolution digital record of it before it was once again hidden behind drywall. It is likely a Wright family member painted it decades ago.
Photo courtesy of Keith Blackwell Photography
6. Remove saucepan from heat. Cool completely (30 minutes). 7. With mixer at medium speed, beat cream until stiff peaks form. 8. Fold marshmallow mixture into whipped cream with grated chocolate. 9. Spoon filling into cooled crust. Refrigerate pie at least 3 hours or overnight. 10. Top with mini marshmallows, maraschino cherries and rain- bow sprinkles. Photo credit: Jenna’s Pie Palace www.jennaspiepalace.com/the-recipes/marshmallow-mermaid-pie
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ARTIST OF THE MONTH
ple, makes excellent dragon wings. Streaked glass in the background creates the illusion of flight for a bird.
If the Glass Fits When long-time Strathroy resident Pamela King Black consid - ered retiring, she knew she had to find something artistic to do. She loves exploring various creative outlets, like felting and sew- ing, but after taking a stained-glass class with Rachel Hayes at Beveled Edge Glass Studio in Strathroy, Pam knew she had found the perfect fit. Ten years later, Pam has honed her ability to create unique stained-glass pictures of landscapes, animals, and interesting objects, like the Hylian Shield from the video game Zelda. “I love the versatility of glass,” explains Pam. “It comes in several colours and textures and can be fired, blown, fused, and cut into different shapes and forms.” To create a piece of stained glass, Pam starts with an idea for a subject, then researches the images she needs using the in- ternet, pattern books, photos, and her imagination. She works with the pictures she finds to create her design, choosing the shapes, colours and textures of glass she needs to achieve the desired effect. Pam explains that some glass pieces should be vibrant to show- case the subject, while others should be more subdued. The right texture can highlight specific elements. Crackle glass, for exam -
Pam finds inspiration for her work in anything that piques her interest, from sights she sees on her travels to memories from family events or el- ements invoked by hobbies of friends and family. The shield from Zelda, for example, was a piece Pam made for her son. What Pam loves most, however, is the design process and the satisfaction she feels as she sees the pieces come together. It’s a delicate and detailed process that can be challenging and lends itself to making mistakes. Pam is okay with that because it's how she continues developing as an artist. “You learn with each piece. Drawing the pattern, cutting glass – recutting it when it breaks – fitting it together,” adds Pam. “These projects can be challenging, and I feel very proud of each one.” Next, Pam wants to learn glass fusion, a process of melting and fusing layers of glass in a kiln to make glass-on-glass designs. Pam hopes aspiring artists find the courage to try whatever art form they find interesting. “If it makes you happy, it’s likely a good fit.”
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025
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Loaded Dice: Rolling for You Loaded Dice is one of Strathroy’s most recent cover bands to hit the local music scene, and they come loaded with a love for music, energy, and years of experience. They’re also rolling with a deep sense of loyalty to each other that makes them more family than bandmates. The four-musician ensemble consists of three self-taught musi- cians dedicated to developing their craft from their early teens: Steve Moniz on guitar, Alper (Al) Tabakcilar on bass, and Ivan Catojo keeping everyone in line on drums. The fourth member, Chris Soares, focuses solely on vocals and has also honed his singing voice without formal training. Everyone but Al grew up in Strathroy and still lives there. Al moved to Canada from Türkiye three and a half years ago and lives in London. While the current iteration of Loaded Dice celebrates its first anniversary this June, the band and its iconic name originated when Steve was fifteen. Steve says the story starts with a mis - take his dad made. “I wanted to play bass. My dad came home one day and handed me a guitar. He didn’t know the difference,” Steve laughs. “He wasn’t taking it back, so here I am.” With over a dozen guitars displayed lovingly in his basement, it’s clear Steve took the guitar and never looked back. “I was so excited when I learned my first song ‘Heaven’s on Fire’ by KISS, I ran to my friend’s house. We created a band and named it Loaded Dice because he always rolled dice he claimed were loaded. The name stuck with me.” Al’s love of bass and guitar started when he was fourteen and heard Metallica’s “Fade to Black” on the radio for the first time. At two years old, Ivan’s parents knew they had a drummer on their hands. He went from banging on pots to a kid’s drum kit from the Sears catalogue to a real drum set by the time he turned seven. “I was stoked,” says Ivan. “I played by ear and didn’t stop until I got it right.”
(L to R) Al, Ivan, Steve, Chris
Steve and Al have played in bands on and off over the years. Ivan took a 20-plus-year hiatus from drumming until 2017 when he picked it up again. Chris came from a family of singers, but he channeled his voice talent into radio rather than music. “Unless you consider Wednesday Karaoke back in the day,” laughs Chris. What brought this band of brothers together, however, was a chance meeting a few years ago when Steve met Al while play- ing in a different band. Steve was ready for something different and started today’s Loaded Dice with Al and Ivan. They had a good run playing local gigs, including the Strathroy Hometown Festival in 2024. By that time, the lead singer had left, and they needed a new frontman. Steve approached his long-time buddy, Chris. “I had played with Chris before and knew he was good.” Today’s Loaded Dice plays covers from CCR to Bon Jovi to Billy Joel. They also have a deep love for Mötley Crüe. “We don't have any Metallica yet, but I'm sure that’s coming,” says Chris. What keeps Loaded Dice rolling, besides their depth of musical talent, is their energy and the fun they have performing together. “It's about chemistry, and ours is very good,” adds Al. Loaded Dice performs at the 2025 Morgan Make-A-Wish Foun- dation Ride on June 28, Grand Bend on Canada Day, and Strathroy Ribfest on July 5. For other dates and locations where Loaded Dice will be "Rollin’ for you," find them on Facebook at @loadeddice2024. Photos courtesy of Patti Moniz
Loaded Dice doing what they love
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DRINK LOCAL BE SOCIAL ANYTIME, ANYWHERE, WITH NE1
22469 ADELAIDE ROAD, MOUNT BRYDGES, ON
@THESTILLBAR THESTILLBAR.CA 519-264-0880
The Still Bar and Tasting Room, Proudly Local
For Brendan Jones, owning a bar wasn’t just a business dream; it was a lifelong vision. He always imagined a space where people could gath- er, feel safe, be themselves, and take pride in where they come from. That dream has now come to life in the heart of Mount Brydges with The Still Bar & Tasting Room.
“Our goal is to provide a space where people can enjoy locally crafted spirits, beer and wine. A place in Mount Brydges to gather, share stories and create lasting memories in our hometown,” says Brendan. Brendan’s drive and ambition have been clear from day one. He got his start working the back of house in a local restau- rant during high school and never looked back. After university, his career in the beverage industry quickly took off, as he trav- eled across Canada as a sales rep for both large and boutique wine, beer, and spirit brands. He worked his way up quickly with persistence, vision, and a knack for understanding people and products. But in 2010, when work brought him to London, On- tario, something shifted. He felt a sense of belonging and chose to plant roots. In 2013, Brendan married his long-time love, Andrea. Their strong bond became the foundation not just for a family, but a business partnership. Together, they are raising two boys, 10-year-old Hunter and 6-year-old Harrison. “I’m a very lucky guy,” Brendan says warmly, beaming when he talks about his family. “They’re my biggest motivation and the reason I do what I do.” In 2021, Brendan and Andrea launched NE1 Spirits, a brand born from Brendan’s industry insight and passion for inclusivity. Rec - ognizing a demand for corn-based and gluten-free spirits in On - tario, NE1 was created to be “inclusive, approachable, and local.” Supporting the local community isn’t just part of Brendan’s mis - sion — it’s at the heart of everything he does. From the start, NE1 Spirits partnered with causes that matter, like ‘I’ve Got Your Back 911’, helping raise awareness for First Responders’ men - tal health. Brendan’s approach is personal and creative, from custom label designs that support Strathroy Pride to sponsoring local sports teams and contributing a portion of product sales to local initiatives. “Giving back to the community that supports us isn’t a marketing plan, it’s just who we are,” says Brendan. With the dream of creating a welcoming, community-first space still top of mind, Brendan opened The Still Bar & Tasting Room as a pop-up during the 2023 Mount Brydges Christmas Open House. Just a year later, on December 13, 2024, it officially opened its doors at 22469 Adelaide Street, a space Brendan describes as “a gathering place where people can leave their problems at the door, feel at home and just be themselves.” True to his values, the bar was built and designed with local talent, tradespeople, designers, and suppliers from the region
bringing Brendan’s vision to life. The food menu is filled with lo - cally sourced ingredients and beer and spirits served are from Ontario producers as much as possible. Half the menu is glu- ten-free and the prices are re- freshingly reasonable. “We support as many local businesses as possible,” says Brendan. “We’re the only cock - tail and spirit-forward location west of London and we want to make this a place where people are proud to visit and proud to call their own.”
Beyond the craft cocktails and creative menu, what really sets The Still apart is the atmosphere. Warm, welcoming staff greet every guest like family, creating a place where strangers be- come regulars and regulars become friends. “You can’t beat the personal, friendly atmosphere here. The people make all the difference,” says Brendan. Always thinking ahead, Brendan is constantly introducing new ways to bring people together, from ‘Meet the Maker’ nights where guests can connect with the artisans behind the prod- ucts, to monthly ‘Trivia Wednesdays’ and live acoustic perfor - mances by local talent on weekends. The Still also features a retail section where guests can buy local beer and cocktails to- go, many of which aren’t available at the LCBO. Whether it’s a first date, a night out with friends, or a solo stop to unwind, The Still Bar & Tasting Room is a cozy, hidden gem that feels like home. Brendan puts it best: “Pick a date, come be yourself, pull up a chair and let us take care of the rest.” From ambitious beginnings to a beloved community hub, Bren- dan Jones, with Andrea, Hunter, and Harrison by his side, has distilled a dream into something truly special. And Mount Brydg- es is raising a glass to what comes next. The Still Bar and Tasting Room 22469 Adelaide Road, Mount Brydges www.thestillbar.ca
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Strathroy Pride has been dedicated to fostering and strengthen- ing an inclusive and welcoming community in Strathroy-Cara- doc since 2020. We have been so moved by the love and support this community has shown us, and each other, over the years. We are grateful to our amazing volunteers, com - mittee members, community partners and sponsors, including Premier supporters NE1 Spirits, Mainstreet Credit Union, Sad Nuggie and the Wright Family Performing Arts & Entertainment Centre Foundation. We hope you will join us on July 5th for Pride in the Park and celebrate community, diversity and acceptance, you won’t want to miss it!
Strathroy Pride in the Park – July 5th by Frank Emanuele Strathroy Pride is proud and excited to celebrate our 6th year on July 5th at Pride in the Park in Alexandra Park! The annual Pride flag raising starts at 11 am at Strathroy Town Hall, followed by Pride in the Park from noon until 4 pm. We have an incredible group of over 40 vendors, including local organizations, artisans and food vendors, alongside a variety of activities for the whole family! The event will also offer some incredible talent taking the stage, including two-spirit drag artist Chelazon Leroux, singer/ songwriter Sarah Smith and London’s own Aeolian Pride Chorus - es. Pride in the Park is free to attend and everyone is welcome!
Five Years and Ribfest Still Cookin’ Ribfest is back again this summer with finger-lickin’ good times for the whole family. Head to the Strathroy Fair Grounds Rec- reation Complex on July 4, 5 and 6 and enjoy the rib vendors competing for the 2025 title for Best Ribs and Best Sauce. The festival will open from 11 am to 10 pm on Friday and Saturday and from 11 am to 6 pm on Sunday. Entrance to Ribfest and all the activities is free. Besides award-winning ribs, kids of all ages will find some - thing fun and exciting, including family-friendly activities in the Kids’ Zone, sponsored by Hamstra’s Carpet One. The Kid Zone will include bounce castles, games, face painting and more. It opens from 4 to 8 pm on Friday, 11 to 8 pm on Saturday, and 11 am to 6 pm on Sunday. The Aquatic Park will also offer three public swims, one on Fri- day and two on Sunday. A beach volleyball tournament takes place on Saturday. The Strathroy Rotary Club will host the beer tent again this year. The older crowd can enjoy a beverage and watch a concert. Several local bands will take the stage, including 8 Second Ride and Brothers Wilde on Friday night and Loaded Dice, Sweet Sabertooth, and Bobnoxious on Saturday night.
Concerts start at 5:30 pm in the beer tent. However, only adults 19 and over can stay after 7 pm. Pick up your "$4 off Friday” voucher at Town Hall or the Down- town Strathroy Market on Saturday mornings. One voucher en- titles you to a discount of $4 at any rib vendor before 5 pm. For more information, contact Kait Topham, Events & Booking Coordinator for the Municipality, at 519-245-1105, Ext. 257 or visit the Events page at www.strathroy-caradoc.ca/living-here/ community-events. Photo courtesy of the Strathroy-Caradoc Municipality
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025
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The Delaware Legion Branch #598 will be open from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, participating in the parade with a Colour Party. They will be hosting a BBQ featuring hamburgers and hot dogs until 7:00 pm. Guests are advised to bring their own lawn chairs to enjoy live music performances scheduled for the afternoon and early evening. Food vendors will be available from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and pets are welcome at the event, provided they are leashed. The day's celebrations will finish in a fireworks display at 10:00 pm. For inquiries, individuals can email delkobrydgecanadaday@ gmail.com or send a message via the event's Facebook page. Donations are accepted through e-transfer until July 2nd at delkobrydgecanadaday@gmail.com, as well as in person at the information table during the event. Additional details can be found on the official website: www.delkobrydgecanadaday.ca.
Celebrating Del-Ko-Brydge Canada Day in Delaware The Del-Ko-Brydge Canada Day celebration returns to Delaware on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, marking its 43rd year with the theme “Canada Strong.” This tradition rotates annually between Del - aware, Mount Brydges, and Komoka and is entirely communi - ty-driven, organized by local service groups and volunteers. Key contributors include the Mount Brydges Lions, Delaware Lions, Komoka Kilworth Optimists, with support from the Melbourne & District Lions, Poplar Hill & District Lions, Mount Brydges Busi- ness Association and the Delaware and Mount Brydges Legions. Festivities start at 7:30 am at the Delaware Community Centre and Park, located at 2652 Gideon Drive. Attendees can enjoy a complimentary pancake breakfast sponsored by Edward & Sons. While plates and utensils will be provided, guests are en- couraged to bring their own reusable items to support environ- mental sustainability. The parade kicks off at 11:00 am, with same-day registration available for participants. Following the parade, the opening ceremonies begin at noon, featuring free cake and ice cream afterwards, thanks to Foodland Komoka. Throughout the day, families can partake in various free activities, including face painting and bouncy castle sponsored by High Gear Auto Re- pair, a petting zoo sponsored by McFarlan Rowland Insurance, inflatable archery sponsored by Ronson Paving, bingo and corn - hole. Live entertainment will be provided, with the Old Thyme Heritage Band performing in the morning and DJ Pete in his DJ booth in the afternoon.
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All Aboard! Get ready to ride the rails this summer as the Sleepy Hollow Railroad gets rolling once again. Located at 334 Metcalfe Street, West, the beloved community at- traction will open for the season on July 5 and offer rides for kids of all ages every Saturday from 11 am to 4 pm, weather permitting. The ride is free, but donations are welcome and encouraged. Sleepy Hollow is a 7.5-inch gauge miniature railway that kids and
ern Ontario in the name, we hope to attract more people to join,” he adds. The Southern Ontario Live Steamers started with four volun- teers in their first year and has grown into a club with around 20 members. “We have three members who are actual railway employees. The rest are railway enthusiasts and spouses who love to volunteer,” says Chad. Besides running the train on Saturdays, the club does most of the track maintenance. They also attend local model train shows to spread the word about the Sleepy Hollow Railroad, and they host a couple of special community events in the fall. If you’re looking for a great family outing during the summer, climb aboard the Sleepy Hollow Railway. Sleepy Hollow Rail- road operates every Saturday during July and August, depend- ing on volunteer availability and cooperative weather. For more information, find the Southern Ontario Live Steamers on Facebook at www.facebook.com/southernontariolivesteam- ers or email southernontariolivesteamers@gmail.com. Photos courtesy of the Southern Ontario Live Steamers Karen accepts cash donations only. Each donation allows you to enter your name to win several door prizes. After the art show, Karen donates the money electronically and posts the confirma - tion letter on her Instagram account. The Open Studio Art Show includes an indoor exhibit of Karen’s art. Weather permitting, she also will have an exhibit outside and a painting table where you can feed your inner artist. For more information, visit www.karencaughlinstudio.ca.
adults can ride along an almost 1,000-foot track. Owned by the Strathroy-Caradoc Municipality, the Southern Ontario Live Steamers (formerly the Strathroy Model Railroad Engineers) have operated the railroad on Saturdays since 2019. The Sleepy Hollow Railroad was privately owned and given to the Municipality many years ago. The Municipality moved the train to its current location in 2014 and built a railway-themed park around it. The storage shed and workshop were modelled loosely on Strathroy’s old Grand Trunk Railway train station that burned down in 2004. In 2019, Anthony Clark, a Strathroy resident who is a CN em- ployee and model train enthusiast, noticed the track was not operating. He contacted the Municipality to find out why and learned they no longer had the volunteers to run it. “Anthony asked if I wanted to play with some big model trains,” laughs Chad Smith, a founding member of the club. “When he explained the situation, I was on board.” When asked about the club's name change, Chad explains that they became a registered non-profit organization recently, and the new name better reflects the hobby at its heart. “With South -
Feeding the Inner Artist and the Community For six years, artist Karen Caughlin has opened her studio to the community to ex- plore art and help feed people struggling with food insecurity. Located at 351 Adelaide Street in Strathroy, Karen’s annual Open Studio Art Show and Sale is on June 20 from 4 to 8 pm and from
Saturday, June 21 to Sunday, June 22, from 11 am to 5 pm. The event is free for everyone. However, Karen hopes that peo - ple coming to see her work will donate their loonies and toonies to the Salvation Army and Strathroy Community and Family Services Food Bank. “At some point in our lives, someone we know has experienced financial loss so significant that putting food on the table is chal - lenging,” explains Karen about why she hosts this fundraiser each year. “Cash donations to the Food Bank allow them to buy what they need.”
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc June 2025
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