Byron
Villager JUNE 2025 ISSUE 101
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Page 2 Byron Villager June 2025
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Walking Your Way to Wellness Walking is a fantastic way to move your body and calm your mind. Walking with someone, or a group of someones, is even better. The benefits of exercise, fresh air, and socializing with others can enhance your sense of well-being and enjoyment in life. Starting can be as simple as walking around your block with a friend or joining a walking group. The BackRoads Walking Group provides a welcoming space for walkers of all ages and abilities. They invite anyone to join them on their weekly walks as they wind through the streets, paths, and trails in the Riverbend community and Warbler Woods. Maria Cunningham coordinates and leads the walk from BackRoads Brews + Shoes in the new West Five district. She started the walking group in October 2024. “As a healthcare worker, I love volunteering for the walks because of the welcoming atmosphere and supportive community at BackRoads,” says Maria. “It’s a supportive group where strangers become friends and cheer each other on.” For more information, you can find the BackRoads Walking Group on Facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/942159341093362. If you’re looking for a smaller group that walks closer to home, try the Byron Walking Club on Facebook. Members of this casual walking group post their suggestions for a time and a place to walk, inviting anyone from the group to join. Kim Galt, the group’s administrator, started it in 2019 to connect with others in her community. “My mother belongs to a similar group in Kincardine. I thought it would be fun to start one in Byron.”
Kim’s goal is for anyone, regardless of age or ability, to feel welcome to come out. She’d like to see the group grow and remain flexible regarding when and where the walks happen. “Everyone’s schedules are different,” explains Kim. “I wanted this to be a little freer, where people could post their availability and suggested location, then whoever wants to join can.” The Byron Walking Club is private, so you must join the group to join the walks. Find them on Facebook @ Byron Walking Club Photo courtesy of Kim Galt
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Page 3 Byron Villager June 2025
Byron Bridge Rehabilitation on Track The City of London is giving the Byron Bridge a boost this summer. It will be repairing parts of its infrastructure to help keep it in service for another 10 years.
An inspection of the bridge in 2023 found that the girders had deteriorated severely and recommended repairing the bridge to extend its life until it can be replaced. Along with the girders, the bridge deck drains will be repaired and extended to redirect runoff water away from the girders, preventing further deterioration. The inspection also identified repairs needed to the watermain insulation that will be fixed as well. The replacement of Byron Bridge is planned within the next 10 years as part of a larger
Byron Villager Issue #101 June 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 Cartoonist: David Botten 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 On every occasion, Shelley Forsyth and her family in Byron enjoy adorning their lawn with decorations.
During construction, traffic will be reduced to one lane with temporary signal lights
project that includes expanding Sanitorium Road and Boler Road to four lanes from Oxford Street West to Commissioners Road West as recommended by the City of London’s Mobility Master Plan. The improvements will enhance capacity and traffic flow and improve sidewalks and bike facilities in this corridor and across the Thames River. According to Andrew Denomme, Transportation Design Engineer with the City of London, the tentative start date for construction is June 30, 2025, and the tentative end date is August 29, 2025. “Traffic will be reduced to one lane, but temporary signal lights will control traffic flow during construction,” adds Andrew. The City will notify Byron residents by mail and social media of the planned construction and anticipated transportation impacts two weeks before the project starts. For more information and updates, visit www.london.ca or follow the City of London on X (Twitter), Facebook and/or Instagram @cityofldnont. Back in the Day The very first pizzeria in Byron was co-owned by Ali Ramadani and John Liokossis. The partnership dissolved and Ali opened up Julio’s Pizza and John opened up Byron Pizza. This was located along Commissioners Road, just west of Boler.
Page 4 Byron Villager June 2025
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Page 5 Byron Villager June 2025
The Star-Studded Journey of Steve Plunkett’s 1961 Cadillac Several of Steve Plunkett’s Cadillacs have storied histories tied to music and movie stars. But only one is currently in a
supporting role for a major streaming series. Steve’s 1961 Eldorado Biarritz Convertible is in Hamilton, Ontario, where Amazon Prime is producing a new series based on the life of Mohamed Ali. Called The Greatest , it’s just the latest version of Ali’s life story, authorized by the late champion’s family. Magnum PI star Jaalen Best will play Ali. Early on, when Ali collected prize money for fighting, he bought this gorgeous
vehicle in pink as a gift to himself, and a ’59 Cadillac for his mom. When Steve purchased this car twenty-four years ago it already had a history of transporting celebrities. It was owned by a wealthy Alberta family, the Catalinis. They operated several hotels in Medicine Hat, Alberta, including the Assiniboia, Cosmopolitan, Royal, and Corona Hotels. When there was a parade in Medicine Hat and a visiting dignitary needed to be chauffeured in luxury, this was the vehicle they rode in. Princess Anne was driven in this car. So were Canadian country music superstars Tommy Hunter and Wilf Carter. They enjoyed one of the smoothest rides of the time. The four- speed automatic has a 390 V-8 engine giving 325 horsepower to those relaxing in its leather seats. This vehicle is one of Cadillac’s rarest models. Only 1,450 were produced with a base price of about $6,500 USD. That’s almost 4.5 times what a VW Beetle cost then. If this premium car drove through your town, it would definitely make your head swivel. It came loaded with options most cars of the day didn’t have, including factory air conditioning and power windows, locks, seats, and radio antenna. It also has remote controlled side mirrors and automatic-dimming headlights. Cadillac liked exotic names. Eldorado is a mythical city of gold that supposedly existed in South America in the 16th and 17th centuries. The first Cadillac Eldorado was introduced as a premium convertible only in 1953. As of 1956, the company split the Eldorado into two models. The Eldorado Seville was a two- door hardtop, and the Eldorado Biarritz, the convertible. They
borrowed Seville from the city in southern Spain. And Biarritz is a city just north of Spain on the coast of France. The Seville was dropped in 1961 but the Biarritz continued until 1964. That year, the Biarritz name was retired and the line was renamed, Fleetwood Eldorado. The Biarritz title was revived from 1976 to 1991 to name a décor upgrade for Eldorados. For fifteen 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.
Page 6 Byron Villager June 2025
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When Life Makes You Pivot Sometimes, life forces you to pivot from the path you thought you were on. Trever Lewington, a Byron resident and lead guitarist for the Canadian Celtic rock band Enter the Haggis, knows this firsthand. After 30 years, his band played its last show in the United States (U.S.) this past March, so Trevor could focus on his 12-year-old son, Dale, who is fighting brain cancer. “It has turned our world upside-down,” says Trevor about Dale’s medical journey. “I loved being a professional musician, sharing my songs with an enthusiastic audience, but it’s the right time to be at home.” Enter the Haggis began in Toronto during the late 90s as a group of college kids who loved writing and playing their own Irish- and Scottish-inspired rock music. With some lucky opportunities, including a 2004 PBS special and an appearance on Live with Regis and Kelly, the band began building their fanbase and a successful music career in the U.S. As part of their last tour, Trevor raffled his first-ever electric guitar, an American Telecaster purchased at a Toronto pawn shop, to raise money to help fight pediatric brain cancer. The raffle raised $46,000 (CAD). Trevor donated the money to the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada to help fund research, and Childcan, which supports the family with food vouchers, parking passes, and regular check-ins. Support has come from other corners, too. The principal and staff at Byron Southwood Public School, where Dale is in grade 7, have been outstanding at communicating with the family throughout this journey. “Dale’s teacher makes sure he’s happy in class and gets the work to him, even if he’s in the hospital or recovering at home,” Trevor explains. Dale’s classmates also pitch in by sending messages of encouragement when he’s in the hospital and helping him get around in his wheelchair at school. They visit during lunch on Wednesdays when Dale is recovering from chemo. Dale’s older brother, Graeme, also helps to raise money for the Saunders High School Cancer Campaign by selling 3D printed items that Dale’s teacher makes for the fundraiser.
Trevor performing at his last show, March 16, 2025
Every day is different now for Trevor and his family. They often face unexpected challenges, but they make sure they have some fun every day. “After dinner, we always play a game of euchre,” Trevor shares. “It’s been a huge change. We’re much more focused on the smaller picture.” While Trevor has silenced his guitar, he continues producing music from his home studio. Anyone interested in recording can email him at trevorhaggis@gmail.com. For more information on the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada and Childcan, visit www.braintumour.ca and www.childcan.com. With files from: CBC, “As son battles cancer, London musician’s guitar raffle raises thousands for charity” www.cbc.ca/amp/1.7513523, accessed: May 9, 2025. Photos courtesy of Bill Bixler / One Awesome Night
Trevor with Enter the Haggis at their last show, March 16, 2025
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Page 7 Byron Villager June 2025
An update from Anna Hopkins Our Ward 9 City Councillor
(non-emergency line): 519-661-5670. • Residents can also request traffic calming measures— it only takes support from 10 households to initiate an evaluation. • We’re also seeing a significant number of new planning applications in Ward 9. To help keep everyone informed, I’ll be hosting an information session, “Building in Our Community,” on Thursday, June 26, from 6–8 pm at the Bostwick Library. City staff will be available to answer questions and provide updates on current development policies and housing plans for our area. And with Father’s Day coming up on June 15, I want to thank all the dads and father figures who give their time and care, from early morning drop-offs to late-night dinners. Strong families build strong communities. Lastly, a heads-up for local drivers: Colonel Talbot Road is fully closed between Southdale Road and Clayton Walk— including the Pack Road intersection—until approximately June 13 (weather permitting). Detours are in place for vehicles and pedestrians, and local access is being maintained. All businesses in the area remain open and accessible. For updates, visit my website or sign up for the newsletter. Take care of one another,
Driving Safely in Our Community
One thing I often hear from residents is concern about how people are driving in our neighbourhoods. Some say drivers are too slow and overly cautious and others worry about speeding and recklessness. The reality likely falls somewhere in between, but the shared message is clear: road safety remains a top priority. After over a decade on Council, I’ve seen how our sense of neighbourhood safety has shifted, especially since the pandemic. As summer approaches and
As a Candidate for Ward 9 in this year ’ s Municipal Electio will be a number of conversations that I will be talking abo constituents.
519-661-2489 ext 4009 ahopkins@london.ca
we see more people out walking, biking, and playing, alongside active construction projects, it’s important that we all do our part to keep our streets safe. Here are a few helpful resources: • “Respect the Limit” lawn signs are available for free at City Hall. If you’d like one but can’t get there, contact me and I’ll gladly drop one off. • To report a traffic concern, contact the London Police Service
Did You Know? Dr. George Stanley is credited with the original design of the Canadian flag, which was eventually adopted in 1965. Dr. Stanley’s design is based on a strong sense of Canadian history. The combination of red, white and red first appeared in the General Service Medal issued by Queen Victoria. Red and white were later proclaimed Canada’s national colours by King George V, in 1921. Three years earlier, Major General (later the Honourable) Sir Eugene Fiset had recommended that Canada’s emblem be the single red maple leaf on a white field – the device worn by all Canadian Olympic athletes since 1904.
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Winners and Losers
With the sound of the battle echoing in his ears, British General Proctor and his guard gallop towards Moraviantown, a short distance away. They do not tarry there for the Kentucky cavalry is in hot pursuit. He eludes them, but his baggage does not. Exhausted, he catches up to his wife and family at Gideon Tiffany’s farm (Belvoir, 2475 Gideon Drive, Delaware). The following day, he most assuredly stops for refreshment and perhaps the night at Archie McMillan’s Inn (where Byron Automotive is now located) on his retreat to the Niagara Theatre. The following year, Major General Henry Proctor will be court- martialled and found guilty of negligence, bungling the retreat and errors in judgment. He blames the high command for his lack of support, which put him into such a difficult situation. After all, he had to sacrifice a third of his army to crew Barclay’s ships as well as most of his cannon to arm his fleet. He is deemed to be a brave soldier, but a weak leader; capable enough, except in situations of stress. It cannot have been easy for him because he failed to win Tecumseh’s respect. In short, he suffered by comparison to General Isaac Brock, who did command Tecumseh’s respect. Proctor is suspended from rank and pay for six months. His career in tatters, he will leave Canada in 1815 and die at Bath, England, on October 31, 1822, at age 59. “All they want for Christmas is You” Meanwhile, the winner, American General William Henry Harrison, turns his army around and heads back down the Thames. He will garrison Detroit, Sandwich (Windsor) and Amherstburg. Brigadier General Duncan MacArthur will be in charge at Detroit. Harrison may have decided to turn around because his supply lines were too extended and that foraging would be too difficult. More likely, it was because his six-month soldiers from Kentucky had accomplished what they had set out to do, namely, destroy Tecumseh and his Confederacy and therefore any opposition to the expansion of the United States to the west. Now they were loudly clamoring to go home. In reality, it would make sense for London Animal Care Centre • 121 Pine Valley Blvd, London www.accpets.ca • (519)685-1330
British Major General Henry Proctor
American General William Henry Harrison
Harrison to move the rest of his 1,700 active regular troops by boat to the Niagara Theatre since he had Captain Perry and his fleet at his disposal! A short time later, Harrison will resign from the army and become the member for Ohio in the House of Representatives. In 1841, he became the 9th President of the United States and the first to die in office, a month later. Major Simon Zelotes Watson and Captain Andrew Westbrook are in shock at Harrison’s decision to turn around. As they turn their horses towards Detroit, they realize that they will be no closer to home than they were a year and a half ago when they joined General Hull’s army. Gone is the hope that they could use the Americans to settle their score with Colonel Talbot. They will have to find another way. (To be continued)
December
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Page 9 Byron Villager June 2025
Page 10 Byron Villager June 2025
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Byron’s Canada Day Fireworks Set to Light Up the Sky – July 1 Byron families, mark your calendars — the much-loved Canada Day Fireworks Celebration returns on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, with an action-packed afternoon and an awe-inspiring fireworks display at dusk. Organized and sponsored by the Byron Optimist Club, which is proudly celebrating its 75th anniversary of service to the community and youth, the event promises to deliver fun for all ages. The gates open at 4:00 pm and from that moment on, attendees will be treated to a vibrant lineup of activities, entertainment, and food. Admission is completely free, made possible in part by a $5,000 grant from Heritage Canada, which recognized the value of this event to the community. However, cash donations are greatly appreciated, especially as the cost to run the event — approximately $24,000 — continues to rise. Organizers stress that without increased support, the event may need to be downsized in the future. There’s plenty for families to enjoy throughout the day. Children will love the giant Disney-themed bouncy castle, where they can jump and play alongside familiar characters in a colourful, inflatable world. The excitement continues with the Wrecking Ball bouncy game, where players try to knock each other off their perch using a swinging inflatable ball. Those with a competitive streak can also enter the gladiator jousting arena, testing their balance and strength with foam lances in a friendly battle to the finish. Whisk together eggs and milk until they are foamy, and then mix with flour and salt. Do not overmix. Allow the batter to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Add about a teaspoon of fat to each cup of a muffin tin. Place the tin in the oven to heat for five to seven minutes. Fill each cup of the muffin tin to about half full, and return the tin to the oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the puddings are crisp and golden brown. Serve immediately, drizzled with remaining melted butter as desired. Recipe yields 12 DJ Alpha, a veteran performer known for spinning tunes across Canada, will provide the soundtrack for the event. With a passion for music and an energy that’s contagious, DJ Alpha promises to keep the crowd moving all evening long. Meanwhile, attendees can strike a pose in the modern photo booth, a fully automated kiosk that delivers high-quality prints in colour or black and white, complete with fun props to commemorate the day. Food lovers will have their cravings satisfied by a trio of popular food trucks, including Mr. Cool Ice Cream, Jorge’s Tacos, and The Grilled Cheesery. Local favourite Rick’s Sideline Concessions will also be open on-site, offering their delicious burgers, dogs and crispy fresh cut fries. delivered to thousands of addresses in Old South London with extras set out at local venues. Miss out? You can read the complete lineup of Villager community magazines at villagerpublications.com Velofix mobile bike repair is now servicing London & surrounding areas. Safety remains a top priority for the organizers. For this reason, attendees are reminded that dogs, bicycles, and personal fireworks are not permitted. A professional security team will be London Seniors (55+) Games 55+ canlearn more and sign up at OSGA55plus.ca WHILE QUANTITIES LAST: The Wortley Villager is Save Time – Ride More with Vélofix Mobile Bike Repair The Old South Village Pub’s house-made Yorkshire Pudding is topped with thinly sliced roasted beef, horseradish mayo and served with beef au jus. www.oldsouthpub.com Warm Beef Yorkies from the Old South Village Pub Directions Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Aerial view of the Canada Day Fireworks 2024 at the Byron Sports Complex. Photo courtesy of Grant Thomas
present, along with on-site ambulance and paramedic services, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. Community involvement is also welcome. Local service groups, organizations and businesses interested in setting up a table to promote awareness or hand out giveaways can do so at no charge. Anyone interested should contact Richard Hooper at hooperrichard@bell.net or call (519) 868-2715. Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of volunteers led by Richard Hooper and including Club President Chris Stumph and the members of the Optimist Club of Byron has been hard at work since February. Their efforts include organizing entertainment, booking food trucks, coordinating safety measures and planning the fireworks display. The Optimist Club also handles clean-up after the event — just one example of their ongoing commitment to the Byron community. Key contributions from individuals like Sandy McCallum, who manages the Sports Complex, and Howard Botten, the groundskeeper, help make this large-scale event possible. Last year’s celebration drew nearly 8,000 people and this year is shaping up to be even more exciting. As Richard puts it, “I love doing this and hope it continues for many years to come. We’re just grateful to celebrate this great country with our community.” The Byron Optimists have been providing this incredible event in the Byron community for over 40 years. So bring your family, grab your lawn chairs, and head to Byron on July 1 to cap off your long weekend with music, fun, and a dazzling fireworks finale. Let’s celebrate Canada — and each other. Toronto Blue Jays, Maple Leaf Birdhouses and Silva Binoculars make the Perfect Father's Day Gifts!
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To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com May 2022 • Page 15 Book your appointment now at www.velofix.com Wortley Villager
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Byron Cares Food Bank Working to Address Hunger The Byron Cares Food Bank is a local outreach ministry organized and supported by the five local churches. Together we can address hunger and social isolation in our community by continuing to meet the ever-growing demand for affordable, nutritious and accessible meals.
Knorr Rice Sidekicks Canned Vegetables Toothpaste & Toothbrushes
Items needed: Jam Pasta sauce
If you wish to donate non-perishable items or gift cards, please do so during the Food Bank’s operating hours on Tuesday and Friday, 1 pm to 3 pm, at the Byron United Church at 420 Boler Rd. Please use the Boler Road entrance. 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 abilities. 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. 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. Byron Filmmaker Documentary Premiere Colin Field, a long-time resident of Byron, recently returned to Fanshawe College to pursue filmmaking. His latest documentary is set to premiere at Wolf Performance Hall on June 6, in honour of D-Day called We Lend a Hand . The film sheds light on the 40,000 teenage girls in Ontario who, during the Second World War, volunteered on farms to support food production, playing a crucial role in the war effort. This documentary aims to bring attention to the resilience and contributions of these young women, ensuring their stories are remembered and honoured. For tickets: Welendahand.ca/events
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Page 12 Byron Villager June 2025
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“I really enjoyed the process of making these videos! It was a really fun project to work on with my peers. It was my favourite project so far! I had lots of fun!” – Maddie S. “I truly loved, loved, working together with my friends to make this short 1-minute video that would be seen by thousands (hopefully millions) and help thousands of trees. This was one of the most fun projects I’ve done so far and would be glad to do something like this again.” – Clark B. Saving the Earth One Shrub at a Time! Created by Eman A. (Grade 7),
Byron Somerset’s Brightest Stars Shine Across the City Byron Somerset Public School is proud to be home to an incredible community of students who consistently strive for excellence. Among them, one standout group is currently gaining well-deserved recognition for a recent project that showcases their creativity, dedication, and teamwork. A small group of students from Grades 4 to 8 participated in an enrichment opportunity put on by members of the Thames Valley District School Board in collaboration with the City of London. The project involved education about Global Warming and asking students to create short Public Service announcements that included a call to action to improve our planet in the face of Climate Change. The City of London and Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB) were proud to share nearly 30 videos created by students all over our board across various social media outlets during the month of April. In total, four videos were created by students from Byron Somerset. All of them appear on the TVDSB and City of London’s social media platforms and were also showcased on the school’s video announcements. Climate Change Counts! Created by Elle D. (Grade 7)
Georgia G. (Grade 7) and Kyla K. (Grade 8)
This passionate group drew on their knowledge of trees and the environmental im- pact of Global Warming on the Earth to create this enthusiastic plea to others. The girls collectively share their belief, “Plant trees, save the planet!” – Eman, Georgia, Kyla Climate Change Created by Adhyan S. (Grade 4), Cole L. (Grade 4), Bohdan L. (Grade 5) and Leo B. (Grade 7) This impassioned group fo- cused its efforts on educat- ing others about the effects of Climate Change and its impact on the future of our planet. Their collective mot- to was “Save the Earth to save your future!” These boys thoroughly enjoyed the creative process of vid- eo making. “I really liked finding just the right music
Kyla, Georgia, Eman
She created a lively ani-mat- ed video that included en- thusiastic voiceover work. Elle passionately believes, “To have a future on earth, we need to take action. We should continue to teach the next generation how to en - sure we get that future.” Deforestation Created by Ben M. (Grade 4), Maddie S. (Grade 5) and Clark B. (Grade 6) Elle
Adhyan, Bohdan, Leo, Cole
This group’s driving force was our city’s nickname! “We’re known as the Forest City. Let’s try our best to keep it that way.” – Ben, Maddie, and Clark
and images and putting all the text effects in place. I liked see - ing the final project come together and knowing it could make a difference in the world.” – Leo B. View all the videos at: getinvolved.london.ca/tvdsb-climate-action
Clark
Ben
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Page 13 Byron Villager June 2025
Come Hungry to the Byron Sports Complex
Located at the Byron Sports Complex at 651 Boler Road, Rick’s Sideline Concessions is a go-to spot for visitors to the Byron Sports Complex. Open Monday to Friday from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm and on weekends from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm, Rick ensures patrons have access to delicious meals during park hours. Mornings feature hearty breakfast options like bacon or sausage breakfast wraps, hash browns, and peameal bacon on a bun, available from 9:00 am to noon. As the day progresses, the menu offers Rick’s renowned crispy fresh- cut fries, a host of delicious menu items and new this year, the Chicken Caesar Wrap. Rick’s is also offering refreshing slushies, which are new this year. Starting his third year, Rick’s commitment to quality and taste has made his concession stand a fixture at the Complex. For menu items and operating hours updates, especially during special events or unforeseen closures, patrons are encouraged to follow Rick’s Sideline Concessions on Facebook. Whether attending a game or simply enjoying the Complex, Rick’s Sideline Concessions offers a welcoming atmosphere and satisfying meals. As Rick says, “Come hungry! Rick’s Sideline Concessions Byron Sports Complex 651 Boler Road
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Page 14 Byron Villager June 2025 To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com
To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com Wortley Villager June 2025 • Page 13
is in the process of transforming more than 100,000 square feet of unused commercial space into new units in the downtown. • London Police have partnered with mental health and addictions workers to curb blatant public drug use, offering people a way forward while ensuring our shared public spaces remain safe for all. More than 400 highly supportive housing units have now either been developed or are included in endorsed proposals, while London was also awarded a Homeless and Addiction Recovery Treatment hub by the Ontario Government. • Less than a year after making the single-greatest public safety investment in London’s history, we’re already seeing progress. Response times are faster, there’s been a 48% reduction in gun violence, and for the first time in over 10 years, London’s Crime Severity Index is below the national average. We expect even greater improvements this year. We know the work isn’t done – far from it. But it’s important to recognize the progress we’re making together, step by step. I’ll continue to push forward on the priorities that matter to you, and I encourage you to stay connected. Contact me at: mayor@london.ca with your comments or questions, or follow along on your favourite social media platform.
Message from the Mayor Mayor Josh Morgan mayor@london.ca 519-661-4920 As the days grow longer and the warmth of spring settles in, I hope you’re finding time to enjoy the season and look ahead to a great summer. It’s been a busy and productive stretch at London City Hall, and I wanted to take a moment to share a few highlights of the work we’ve been doing on your behalf.
• The London Economic Response Team has been launched to support local businesses, and safeguard our economy in response to U.S. tariffs. As Mayor, I’ve also collaborated with the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, and joined Premier Ford in Washington, D.C. to advocate against tariffs directly to U.S. lawmakers, businesses, and other American stakeholders. • Housing starts in London are up 101% year over year, the third biggest increase in all of Canada. Council also approved an all-time record 22,890 new units of housing last year, and our Office-to-Residential conversion program
Happy Canada Day!
Employee of the Month April
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.
Craig
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Page 15 Byron Villager June 2025
Byron Legion June 2025 Calendar | 1276 Commissioners Road West (519)-472-3300 Monday to Friday 12pm – 10pm, Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 7pm
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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. 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. 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 • 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. Celebrate Seniors Month this June Seniors Month celebrates the seniors in our communities and recognizes the drive to explore, learn, and grow never ends. Lifelong learning helps everyone achieve a fulfilling and satisfying quality of life and sense of self-worth. T his year’s theme is Fit, Active and Healthy Seniors, with a focus on helping older adults through programs that promote wellness, social engagement and education. The London Public Library (LPL) celebrates its third Seniors Month with a range of programs and activities designed specifically with this focus in mind. Looking for a New Shed this Summer? LPL has over 70 programs planned to celebrate our seniors and promote fitness, active living, and wellness. Examples of PAWLOOZA
themes that may be covered include art, music, writing, maker programs, nature, paper crafting, and more. There will also be a few online programs. These free workshops are available to people 55 and older throughout London’s libraries. The Byron Library is also excited to celebrate Seniors Month and invites all seniors to visit in June. Their special programming provides opportunities for older adults to try their hand at different creative projects and to meet others who may share common interests. The full list of seniors’ programs can be found on the London Public Library website at www.lpl.ca. You can inquire directly at the Byron branch or call 519-471-4000 or call LPL’s main line at 519-661-4600. More information on Seniors Month and government activities can be found at www.ontario.ca/page/celebrating-seniors-ontario. Among Friends London A Club for Women by Women A not-for-profit club offering over 20 monthly activities and social opportunities for women in London and the surrounding area, who are new to the region, widowed, divorced, or retired. Associated with National Newcomers Association of Canada. E: AmongFriendsLondon@gmail.com • T: 226.884.9950 W: www.AmongFriendsLondon.ca @AmongFriendsLondon
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Page 16 Byron Villager June 2025
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SEPTIC TANK PUMPING
You can check out Nick’s work on Facebook at Whiteworks Portraits or Whiteworks Art or email him at whiteworksinfo@gmail.com.
Painting for Life Imagine immortalizing your dog or cat with a fun painting of them standing on the deck of a pirate ship or dressed in your family’s tartan. Perhaps a simple portrait of your favourite family member, human or otherwise, would do the trick. Nick White, an accomplished artist living in Byron, loves creating unique art pieces that celebrate the special people or places in your life.
Nick loves creating art. Period. He has done many commissioned illustrations for posters, books, album covers, portraits, even tattoos. He has been creating contemporary fantasy and traditional art pieces for almost his entire life. “I have been drawing since I could hold a pencil,” explains Nick. “I’ve always had a creative imagination, and I was encouraged by my family to pursue the arts. Growing up with comic books and sci-fi movies was my initial inspiration.” Nick knew he would work in the creative field even when he was young. He attended art classes in high school, cementing his decision to go to the Ontario College of Art and Design. “I’ve been lucky,” adds Nick. “For most of my career, I’ve worked in one type of art field or another. I’ve designed art for movies, created 2-D and 3-D characters and environments for the gaming industry. Currently, I teach at the local college and for private students.” What Nick loves about art is the feeling of accomplishment when he sees a project from beginning to end. He also enjoys feedback from people who appreciate his style of art. 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. Semi-retired now, Nick enjoys painting pet portraits and plans to expand this area so more people can have paintings of their pets as keepsakes. Nick tells aspiring artists to “Do your art all the time. The more you do it, the stronger your skills become. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and experiment with different types of art.” Nick’s portfolio demonstrates how that advice has paid off for him. As a resident of Byron for over 23 years, Nick loves how the community supports one another. “During COVID, neighbours went out of their way to support small businesses. I was one of the recipients of this loyal community. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.” (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
STARK & CO. Painting and Trim Specializing in residential interior and exterior painting and the removal and replacement of baseboard trim.
Laura Medina Agent Bus: 519-204-7277 laura@lauramedina.ca Laura Medina Insurance Agency Inc. 440 Boler Rd. Suite 208
Workers with Pride!
Kaedon J. Stark (519) 872-0347 StarkPaintingAndTrim@Gmail.com CALL, TEXT OR EMAIL FOR A FREE QUOTE & CONSULTATION Stark.PaintingTrim StarkPaintingTrim
London, ON N6K4L2 www.lauramedina.ca
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Page 17 Byron Villager June 2025
example, you can swim at the Byron Outdoor Pool or sign up for Pickleball at the Byron Optimist Community Centre. There is sure to be something for everyone to stay active this summer. To find program descriptions, dates, times, fees, locations, and to register, visit www.london.ca/living-london/ recreation/programs-courses-registration. Click the green button “View and Register for Programs” and search by keyword or location to see what activities are happening near you. You can also call 519-661-5575 or email recreation@london.ca.
Springbank Garden Community Centre: The Place to Be This Summer For over 15 years, Springbank Garden Community Centre has been a key place in Byron to find year-round recreational programming. Formerly the Guy Lombardo Museum, the Community Centre was created when City Council approved a plan to renovate and repurpose the building in 2009. The goal was to create a space to meet increasing recreational demands. Since then, the Community Centre has added to the enjoyment of Springbank Park and helped keep the community active year-round. This summer, the Springbank Garden Community Centre, located at 205 Wonderland Road South, continues serving its purpose by offering several programs throughout July and August to help adults stay active physically and creatively. For the 55-plus set, the Community Centre’s programs range from gentle chair yoga, ideal for those with limited mobility issues, to toe-tapping line dancing fun. Ballroom dancing, Pilates, yoga, and Tai Chi classes are also available for anyone 18 and older, including seniors. If physical activity isn’t your thing this summer, the Community Centre offers a variety of artistic pursuits like introductory guitar, drawing, machine sewing, beginner crochet, and water colour painting. If you’d prefer a program closer to where you live, or in a nearby neighbourhood, many other community centres and locations have recreational programs for young and old alike. For
Celebrate Seniors Month at Riverstone June is Seniors Month - a time to honour vibrant lives and new beginnings. At Riverstone, retirement is all about connection, wellness, and living life your way. Enjoy fitness classes, rooftop patios, and a welcoming community where neighbours become friends. Call 519.474.4410 today to book your personal tour and ask about our 5-Star Living Residence Promo!
519.474.4410 | LiveAtRiverstone.ca
Page 18 Byron Villager June 2025
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