Byron
DECEMBER 2025 ISSUE 106
Villager
This December, the most-needed items include: · Canned Corn · Canned Green Beans · Canned Chicken · Canned Fruit · Jam · Peanut Butter · Knorr Rice Sidekicks · Instant Oatmeal Packages
Byron Cares Food Bank: Helping Neighbours Year Round
As the holiday season approaches, there are many simple ways for Byron residents to help ensure that local families have what they need this December. Supporting the Byron Cares Food Bank is a meaningful way to give back right here in our own community. The Food Bank is a collaborative effort of all the churches in the area and operates out of Byron United Church, located at 420 Boler Road. Donations are accepted Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm. Items can be placed in the marked bin inside the church doors or larger donations can be arranged by calling 519-471-1250.
Every contribution—whether it’s a few cans or a full grocery bag—helps make the season a little brighter for a neighbour in need. In Byron, community care is what the season is all about.
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Page 3 Byron Villager December 2025
Blow Ups of Byron Brings Joy for All This year, Blow Ups of Byron takes place on Saturday, December 6, from 5 to 8 pm. The route begins at 2 Tanglewood Ave, where you can donate to the food bank, enjoy hot chocolate and coffee, listen to festive music, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Santa himself! Blow Ups of Byron began as a simple idea to brighten the holiday season during the first year of COVID. It has grown into a neighbourhood event that brings residents and visitors together to enjoy a self-guided walking and driving tour while supporting the Byron Cares Food Bank and the London Food Bank. “Blow Ups of Byron is more than just a holiday display—it’s a community-driven effort to make a difference,” says Kylene Channer, one of the event’s organizers. In 2024, the neighbourhood raised $26,000 and collected over 4,000 pounds of food, all of which went to the Byron Cares Food Bank and the London Food Bank. The Byron community has helped raise over $66,250 since the first event in 2020. Financial and food donations are welcome again this year. Anyone wishing to make a monetary contribution, please email blowupsofbyron@gmail.com for more information and to receive a tax receipt. For the latest updates, follow Blow Ups of Byron on Instagram @blowupsofbyron or visit their website at www.blowupsofbyron.ca. Every dollar and pound of food donated brings joy to the families who need an extra hand this holiday season. Thank you for supporting this community tradition and helping spread holiday cheer while making a meaningful impact! Photos courtesy of Blow Ups of Byron organizers
Jon Eisler and Carol Dalby aka Mr. And Mrs. Claus!
Byron Villager Issue #106 December 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 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
Villager Publications proudly produces locally-focused magazines in different communities, celebrating the unique stories, people, and character that make each area special. All of our printed magazines can also be enjoyed online at www.villagerpublications.com. CELEBRATING LOCAL STORIES ACROSS COMMUNITIES
Plus two Xmas Cookbooks!
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Byron Villager December 2025
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DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES BYRON AND AREA
INSURANCE SHOPPER YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SHOPPER WORTH/MT. BRYDGES NG YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker e Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker SPRING FLOODING? rers have different ways of covering high ms. Coverages and costs will vary with the on of your house, surrounding terrain and features. policy should I have for high water in the Spring he difference between “Flood e” & “Overland Water Coverage” SPRING FLOODING? What kind of policy should I have for high water in the spring r Insurance covers sudden water events such as ns or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. er Damage Insurance will combine coverages for of water problems such as ground water, overland water and sewer lines. the lay of the land in your neighbourhood. our home and compare your options from HOW DOES ACCIDENT WAIVER PROTECT ME It is an auto insurance benefit that may prevent insurance rates from increasing as a result of a driver’s first at-fault accident. It can be added to a policy to protect those with a good driving record. • Tel: 519-652-3201 • Fax: 519-652-2710 ddanyluk@cmmgbrokers.com Cathy Fallowfield Registered Broker Director of Operations Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker nce may be needed if your home is near r ponds, to insure your property against , tidal waves and similar major events. ater Insurance covers sudden water as heavy Spring rains or a river ts banks in a Spring thaw. sica nelis tered NG TUNE-UP! ome’s exterior, from roof shingles to e handy “Home Maintenance Checklist” me is safe and sound.
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ASK US ABOUT INSURANCE FOR HOME, AUTO, COMMERCIAL, OR FARM INSURANCE SHOPPER DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations WORRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker THE INSURANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD Wishing you the very best this holiday season! Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Over 90 Years of Experience, Integrity and Service in our community SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Patty Crawford Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker COMBINE your home and auto insurance for EXTRA SAVINGS e may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers ure your property against storm surges, tidal waves or events.
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Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near a lake, river, or pond to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves, and similar major events. Drop into our office for a free flood preparation brochure or call us and we will mail it to you Coming soon: Look for our flood preparation brochure filled with tips and guides on what to do before, during, and after a flood. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance will combine coverages for multiple types of water problems such as ground water, overland water, exterior water and sewer lines. Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance combines coverages for multiple types of water problems, such as ground water, overland water, exterior water, and sewer lines. CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE
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UPDATING YOUR HOME? UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE! Byron Villager December 2025
INSURERS THAT WE CAN GET QUOTES FROM Max Insurance Burns & Wilcox
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3 WAYS
The 1930 Cadillac Series 452: The Crown Jewel of American Luxury
In the depths of the Great Depression, Cadillac unveiled a car so luxurious and technically advanced that it became a symbol of what American engineering could achieve even in the hardest times. It’s a jewel in the Cadillac crown of collector and caddy historian Steve Plunkett. The 1930 Cadillac Series 452, model
and exhaust manifolds were finished in glossy black porcelain; corrugated radiator hoses gleamed and every surface, from the polished aluminum to the black enamel, was made to impress. The Series 452’s Fleetwood-crafted Imperial sedan body featured elegant Art Deco influences, including Earl’s signature hood molding that “flowed and divided” along the car’s length. Inside, the sophisticated seven-passenger cabin featured a glass divider separating the chauffeur’s compartment from the rear passenger salon. Every detail reflected Cadillac’s commitment to uncompromised luxury. The Series 452 also included rare, advanced features for its time: power-assisted brakes, an anti-theft ignition system, and cornering lights mechanically linked to the steering to light up during turns. Safety glass, first introduced by Cadillac in 1928, was standard. Despite all of its innovations and high-end allure, the Cadillac V16 arrived just months after the 1929 stock market crash. Few could afford or even want to spend so much on a luxury car. Cadillac lost money on every V16 sold, but GM’s financial strength allowed production to continue as a statement of engineering pride. Some V16s, like the 1930 452 Fleetwood sedan, were converted into ambulances during the mid-1930s. Their size and durability gave them this new lease on life. 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.
4375S, was not just another luxury automobile—it was the world’s first production car powered by a V16 engine. This advancement redefined what luxury meant in the automotive world. Priced at a staggering $6,200, the Series 452 Imperial Seven- Passenger Sedan was Cadillac’s ultimate statement piece. Built on a massive 148-inch wheelbase and tipping the scales at over three tons, only 438 were produced, crafted by Cadillac’s Fleetwood division. Under its long hood lies a 452-cubic-inch, 45-degree V16 engine designed by Owen Nacker under the direction of Lawrence Fisher, of Fisher Body fame. Steve explains, “Fisher had recruited Nacker in 1926 after the success of his overhead-valve V8 in the 1927 LaSalle. The mission was to create an engine that would surpass Packard’s twelve-cylinder models.” It also aimed to rival the engineering prowess of Rolls-Royce. Nacker’s V16 was revolutionary. Producing 165 horsepower, it was engineered for remarkable smoothness and silence, thanks to hydraulic valve lifters (a first in the industry) and a counterweighted crankshaft that delivered effortless, vibration- free performance. It also featured automatic chokes and a thermostatically controlled cooling system, both cutting-edge technologies for the era. Power was transferred through Cadillac’s three-speed synchromesh transmission—introduced just two years earlier in 1928—ensuring seamless, quiet gear changes. Beyond its mechanical brilliance, the V16 engine was designed as a work of art. Under the direction of Harley Earl, General Motors’ first design chief and a pioneer of the Art Deco automotive aesthetic, the engine bay was meticulously styled for good looks. All wiring and plumbing were hidden; the intake
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Byron Villager December 2025
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What’s Happening at Landon Library Submitted by Ashleigh Hickey Cursive Writing (Ages 8+) January 20, 2024 10:30 am – noon (Registered) Come learn the benefits of cursive writing and try your hand at some pangrams with Dez, a local archivist. PA Day Creativity Break (Teen) February 2, 2024 3:00 – 4:30 pm (Drop-In) It’s time to be creative! Drop by your local library to take a break and create. Craft supplies may vary, chill vibes only. STEAM, Saturdays (Family) February 3, 2024 10:00 – 11:00 am (Drop-In) Drop-in to explore a variety of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math related activities! While looking for a house in London, Lorna and Oliver’s daugh - ter, Christina, unabashedly fell in love with Byron. The calming pace of the community with kind faces everywhere, families with deep roots, and newer families with bold dreams all seemed to share the values of what makes community inclusive and strong. Lorna and Oliver enjoy the extended family they found at Byron United Church, and Christina is hoping to open a bu- siness in London and relocate to Byron. AlvegoRoot Theatre Trivia Night Manor Park Memorial Hall, 11 Briscoe Street For ticket information and to learn more about AlvegoRoot’s 2024 season, visit www.alvegoroottheatre.com Meet the Dixon Family Lorna and Oliver Dixon moved from Jamaica to Brampton, Ontario, in 1978 so their children would grow up in a safe environment where any- thing could be possible for them. They eventually settled in Caledon, and in 2022, Lorna and Oliver retired to London. When they left Jamaica, Oliver’s grandmother gave Lorna the rec- ipes for her most cherished des- serts, which were lovingly prepared for the tea parties she hosted in Jamaica. Lorna’s favourite was her grandma’s pineapple upside-down cake, which she continues to make for special occasions. The Dixon family in 1983 (back row, left to right) Oliver, Lorna, Christina (front row, left to right) Jeremy and Stephanie
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. 1 tsp vanilla Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F Topping: Melt butter, then pour melted butter into an 8-inch square or an 8 by 12-inch rectangular cake pan. Sprinkle brown sugar over melted butter. Arrange pineapple slices on the butter sugar mixture and a cherry in the center of each slice. Grease the sides of the pan. Set aside. Cake Batter: Sift together the flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside. Beat butter until creamy. Add granulated sugar and continue beating. Add eggs and beat well. Add flour mixture, milk and vanilla, stirring until smooth after each addition. Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe submitted by Lorna Dixon Topping: 3 tbsp butter 2 cups brown sugar 9 canned pineapple slices, drained 9 maraschino cherries, drained Cake Batter: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 8 ounces of butter 1 1/2 cup sugar 3 eggs 1 cup milk (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 Spread batter carefully and evenly over the topping mixture. Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F. Use a toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked. The cake is ready when the toothpick comes out clean. If not, put it back in the oven for another five minutes and check it again. Let the cake stand for 10 – 15 minutes before turning it upside down onto the serving platter.
(left to right) Oliver, Lorna, Christina and granddaughter Shailyn, taken this year.
STARK & CO. Painting and Trim Specializing in residential interior and exterior painting and the removal and replacement of baseboard trim.
Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack! Laura Medina Agent Bus: 519-204-7277 laura@lauramedina.ca Laura Medina Insurance Agency Inc. 440 Boler Rd. Suite 208 Visit LACC and The Catty Shack on Facebook!
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Byron Villager December 2025
Page 7
Happy Holidays! Winter is here, and the celebrations of the season are about to begin! It’s that special time of year when we come together— checking out local Christmas bazaars, enjoying school concerts, or catching a play at the Grand. Maybe you’re taking a winter getaway up north, heading south for a bit of sunshine, or simply spending cozy weekends at the local rink or hitting the slopes at Boler Mountain. No matter where you find yourself, there’s a wonderful energy in the air as our community gears up for the holidays. I’d also love to encourage you to explore and support the many incredible businesses in our area. Treat yourself to a meal at one of our local restaurants, pick up a special gift from a neighbourhood shop, or warm up with a cozy coffee at your favourite spot. These small moments not only make the season brighter—they help strengthen the vibrant local economy that makes our community such a great place to live. As we look ahead, I want to wish you and your family Health, Happiness, and Peace this holiday season and throughout 2026. May your celebrations be filled with joy, connection, and moments that remind you of the value of community. You can always reach out to me anytime at ahopkins@london.ca or visit www.annahopkins.ca. Take care of one another,
and all the best from my family to yours!
Anna
As a Candidate for Ward 9 in this year ’ s Municipal Election there will be a number of conversations that I will be talking about with constituents.
Anna Hopkins, Your Ward 9 City Councillor ahopkins@london.ca www.annahopkins.ca
Before and After – 1265 Commissioners Road W.
Circa 1970s
2025
Serving Byron for 40 years
1255 Commissioners Rd W (corner of Boler and Commissioners) 519-471-3500
Happy Holidays from your friends at Oxford Learning Byron!
Byron 519.472.3321 208-1240 Commissioners Rd W
www.byronoptometry.com
oxfordlearning.com
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Byron Villager December 2025
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Cultural Cooking Roy Family Sambusa By Jane Roy Finding the Magic As Breanne Ritchie curls up on the couch in her new Byron home, en- joying the fall colours out her win- dow, she knows the stage is set for the next act in her story. From grow- ing up in Ilderton to leading youth theatre programs and community engagement at London’s Grand Theatre, Breanne’s journey has been an eventful one. When Achan and Ater arrived to join their sister Abuk, I figured it was time to learn some east african dishes. I am a hopeless cook, so I turned to some South Sudanese friends for help! They came over and taught me this sambusa recipe (similar to a samosa). The Roy twist was to hide as many vegetables in it as possible (minced zucchini, broccoli etc...). As the kids grew, it became a dinner staple, appearing often in kids lunches and whenever a family recipe was required for the school cookbook. But best of all? The kids and I would make it together. Roy Family Sambusa (An east African Samosa) Ingredients 1 (14 ounce) package spring roll or egg roll wrappers 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 pounds ground beef (potatoes are used for vegetarian option) 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cardamom (nutmeg is a substitute) 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 onion, finely chopped (vegetables such as leeks, corn, peas or carrots may be added) 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon water, or as needed 1 quart oil for frying Directions 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and cook, stirring until the onions are transparent. Add any vegetables and stir until tender. Add ground beef, and cook until about halfway done. Season with cumin, cardamom, salt and pepper. Mix well, and continue cooking until beef has browned. 2. In a small dish or cup, mix together the flour and water to make a thin paste. Using one wrapper at a time, fold into the shape of a cone. Fill the cone with the meat mixture, close the top, and seal with the paste. Repeat until wraps or filling are used up. 3. Heat the oil to 365 degrees F ( 170 degrees C) in a deep- fryer or deep heavy pot. There should be enough oil to submerge the wraps. Fry the Sambusa a few at a time until golden brown. Remove carefully to drain on paper towels. “All they want for Christmas is You” Breanne’s love of theatre began in grade four, when a perceptive teacher suggested she try acting to channel her exuberant energy. Starting with London’s Original Kids Camp and then moving into their main company, Breanne learned the foundational skills of acting and performing. She also found a community. “To gather with others who shared the same interests and passion was a special creative outlet for me at a young age,” explains Breanne. “I loved putting on the skin of new characters and telling a story.” Original Kids taught Breanne about the magic of theatre and what performance feels like. “The moment the lights go down as the show starts is special to me, even today. It’s that moment when you and the audience agree to walk through the story that’s about to unfold together.” Breanne Ritchie Photo credit: Mai Tilson of XUUX Artists On stage addressing the participants of the Grand’s High School Project (2023). Photo credit: Lia Karidas Breanne directing Finding Nemo at Original Kids. Photo credit: Heather Lynch
Page 9 To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com Byron Villager December 2025 Eat as is.... or dip into salsa, sour cream, plum sauce or favourite bbq sauce. CANADIAN TAI CHI ACADEMY Introduction to Tai Chi classes Coming in the New Year Elmwood Presbyterian Church • 111 Elmwood Contact us for details: 226-270-8502 www.londontaichi.ca Rebecca.Behar@td.com TD Wealth Financial Planning 3030 Colonel Talbot Rd., London www.financialplanners.td.com/rebecca.behar Contact me today to get started. TD Wealth london@canadiantaichiacademy.org Facebook: Canadian Tai Chi Academy -London Branch Ask about our introduction classes. TD Wealth Financial Planning is a division of TD Waterhouse Canada Inc., a subsiduary of the Toronto-Dominion Bank. The TD logo and other TD trademarks are the property of the Toronto Dominion Bank or its subsidiaries. 6475877 Here is the requisite first day of school photo from 2010.... when the kids were heading off to St. Martin’s. Breanne and her partner, Drew Eidt, at the Grand Opening of the 2025/26 season. Photo credit: Mallory Brown With the dream of performing firmly set, Breanne studied theatre and arts education at York University. She learned about all aspects of production and added a minor in children’s literature, blending her passion for performance with a growing interest in education. Weekend jobs at drama schools like Young People’s Theatre (YPT) opened her eyes to a new magic: teaching. “Introducing young people to theatre, helping them find their voice and develop their skills, was as thrilling as performing,” Breanne explains. “I realized that supporting youth-related theatre programs administratively was something I wanted to do.” After working in theatre throughout Toronto and with the Stratford Festival, Breanne found her way to the Grand Theatre, where she is the Director of Education and Community Engagement. In this role, Breanne runs the Grand’s High School Project, works with educators to connect theatre with curriculum, and collaborates deeply with the community to make theatre more welcoming and accessible. Watching the leaves tumble into her yard, Breanne revels in the welcoming community she’s finding in Byron and reflects on the future. “I believe in the power of creative expression and arts experiences in our everyday lives. Theatre makes us more empathetic, aware, expanded, and joyful! I will continue introducing as many people to its magic as possible.” Building your financial future – together Rebecca Behar ,CFP Financial Planner 519-663-2542
Page 14 Wortley Villager • December 2019 To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com London Animal Care Centre • 121 Pine Valley Blvd, London www.accpets.ca • Facebook.com/LondonAnimalCare
has special meaning in Byron, and I want to thank organizers for the opportunity to join the community at the Byron-Springbank Royal Canadian Legion Branch 533’s Remembrance Parade and Service last month. Thank you for being part of Byron’s spirit, for your neighbourly kindness, and for all you do to make this patch of London a welcoming place to live. Wishing you a festive December filled with laughter, lights, and the comfort of belonging.
Message from the Mayor
Dear friends in Byron, Since we last spoke, that crisp winter air has definitely made itself at home. I hope you’re staying warm and watching the change in our neighbourhood’s rhythm, as leaves give way to frost and we begin gearing up for the season. In Byron, I’ve seen first-hand the dedication of our communi- ty. Thank you to everyone who helped out at the recent food- bank fundraiser and the local league’s winter readiness event at the sports complex. City Hall continues to work on infrastruc- ture in Byron (remember the bridge repairs and roadworks update from summer!) and we’re making sure our snow-clearance and sidewalk safety plans are ready to roll. This December, I encourage
Josh
Mayor Josh Morgan mayor@london.ca 519-661-4920
you to embrace the holiday season here in Byron: whether it’s pausing for a hot cider with a neighbour, visiting the local shops on Commissioners Road, or simply taking in the evening light and crisp air. I know the transition from a November of reflection and remembrance into a December of connection and community joy
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Byron Villager December 2025
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Certified in Train Your Seat (TYS) Equestrian Biomechanics, Heather’s work emphasizes the rider’s movement in relation to the movement and forces created by the horse. The equine simulator helps Heather’s clients build that connection and condition their bodies for correct movements when they get on a real horse. Heather rediscovered her passion for horses in 2013 when her daughter asked her to join her for a ride at a local ranch. While her daughter wanted to reconnect with her love of riding, it was Heather who discovered a new path, loving her own connection to riding and horses so much that she decided to certify to teach others and train horses. It was a specific biomechanics training program, however, that introduced Heather to a new way of thinking about riding. “The course made the pain I was experiencing from an incorrect riding position all but disappear,” she says. “I knew I needed to share this with others. If I were going to teach, this was the program.” Heather continues expanding her repertoire of equestrian training services and is excited about the addition of the equine simulator. She invites anyone interested in riding, whether they’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, to book a session with Cassidy. Heather’s studio is on Second Street in East London. Visit www.heatherbroadhead.ca or find her on Facebook and Instagram. You can also call Heather at 519-619-0927 or email via her website.
A Horse of Another Colour Remember the coin-operated mechanical horses that used to sit outside grocery stores? Long- time Byron resident and eques- trian trainer Heather Broadhead has a life-sized version at her new East London studio that takes the experience of riding that mechanical pony to a whole new level.
This past July, Heather intro- duced her new realistic equine simulator, the Interactive Dres- sage PRO, to help riders en- hance their skills and balance in a safe and controlled setting.
“The simulator takes away riders’ fear and tension because it’s predictable,” explains Heather. “It lets them focus and get immediate feedback on how they move, helping the body develop muscle memory, which is hard to do on a live animal.” Affectionately named Cassidy, the simulator stands 15 hands tall and is equipped with sensors in its body and reins that provide immediate visual feedback on the rider’s seat position and movement, enabling them to adjust and feel the difference in real-time.
Heather reading the simulator data.
Heather working with a client on Cassidy.
Warm wishes to everyone in Byron for a joyful season and peaceful new year. Happy Holidays!
Peggy Sattler , MPP London West
peggysattler.ca
519-657-3120
PSattler-CO@ndp.on.ca
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Byron Villager December 2025
Page 11
All it takes is a few kind words, a personal story, or a simple “Merry Christmas” to lift someone’s spirits. Get your family and friends to do it with you! It’s a great initiative for kids too. They learn how to spread kindness and that a small gesture can go a long way in making someone’s day. Cards and letters can be dropped in the collection box on the porch of 891 Griffith Street until Friday, December 19.
Sending Season’s Greetings to Seniors This festive season, the Byron Believers will be collecting and distributing Christmas and holiday cards, letters, and crafts to local long-term care homes to help bring joy to those who may be feeling lonely during the holidays. The Byron Believers, a grass-roots group consisting of two moms and their daughters, started collecting letters and cards in January 2021 to help cheer up seniors experiencing isolation because of COVID. Last year, they collected and distributed more than 1,100 cards to help brighten the season for Byron seniors. They’re inviting the community to help bring some smiles to those living in care homes again this Christmas. Riverbend Public School Announced The Thames Valley District School Board has officially announced that the new elementary school under construction at 1000 Upperpoint Avenue will be named Riverbend Public School. Set in the heart of the expanding Riverbend neighbourhood, the school will accommodate 525 students and include an 88-space child care centre, which will be operated by the London Children’s Connection. Riverbend Public School will consolidate enrolment from Byron Northview, Byron Southwood, and Byron Somerset public schools, helping to ease crowding and support the needs of families in this rapidly growing area. The school is expected to open its doors in September 2027.
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Byron Villager December 2025
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piano and bass guitar, going to the gym regularly, and paddling on a dragon boat team. “I love that I found an area of nursing that allows me to develop a one-on-one relationship with my clients and provide that personalized patient care,” Emily reflects. “It brings me joy to fill this need for in-home foot care and see how it helps people.” To book an appointment, email Emily at furtneyemily@gmail.com or contact her by phone or text at 226-349-1848. Christmas Market on the Green The Old South Community Organization (OSCO) is again this year organizing a volunteer-run Christmas Market on the Green , December 5th (4 to 8 pm), and 6th (12 noon to 5 pm), at the corner of Elmwood Ave. and Wortley Road. Shoppers can browse the eight outdoor European-style home-built chalets all offering holiday shopping gifts and treats while being entertained by choirs, the South Collegiate Band, London Citadel Band and piper Brian Elliot. Proceeds support various local charities. As of last year, the Christmas Market on the Green has raised more than $42,000 for non-profit organizations. The Growing Chefs Ontario chalet will have their tourtieres for sale as well as soups! Learn more about Growing Chefs at growingchefsontario.ca Community volunteers and businesses have banded together to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity Ontario. Their chalet will feature pretzels, cider and gluhwein. South Collegiate grads will be selling gift baskets and cookies to fundraise for the school’s prom. The Mylie Group will be raising funds for the Humane Society with treats for our four-legged fur friends. The Gift House chalet will be selling many different items, including cute hand-crafted items by Patty Lee of Chain of Smiles. Funds raised will purchase baby food for the London Food Bank. IN-HOME FOOTCARE BY EMILY RPN/CERTIFIED FOOTCARE NURSE At the Brathouse chalet, Old South Village Pub will raise funds for “Homes for Heroes Foundation” (www.facebook.com/ H4HFcanada) by cooking up sausage. They’ll also staff a second Chalet selling gingerbread cookies and syrup to fundraise for the Freedom Syrup organization (facebook.com/freedomsyrup). The Farmgate Market chalet will offer fresh, local, and seasonal produce – right from their fields. Specializing in compassionate foot care tailored to your needs. 226-349-1848 furtneyemily@gmail.com
Tender Care for Tender Toes Emily Furtney is a registered prac- tical nurse who provides in-home foot care for seniors and people with chronic conditions impacting their feet. For the past year, she has cared for clients in Lambeth and the surrounding area. She is now offering Footcare by Emily in Byron and beyond. Wortley Village Teens “Making Board Games Great Again” by William Palma A group of Old South teenagers has created a new board game called American Dictator , to spark conversation about the current U.S. political situation and get a few laughs along the way. The goal of the game is to take control of as many American cities as possible on the pentagon-shaped board. Players can build golf courses, resorts, and towers, and can steal cities from their opponents. Special spaces include an ICE Detention Facility, a Supreme Court where a chief justice helps you bend the rules, and a casino where the house usually loses. Players draw cards from a pile of Questionable Decisions. These include “Rename a Body of Water,” which requires payment for new maps, or “Fifty-First Folly,” where your hotel goes bankrupt because Canadians stop visiting. Emily grew up in Forest, Ontario and worked as a personal support worker (PSW) while studying nurs - ing. She has worked extensively with seniors and the public; how- ever, it was seeing her grandfather suffer because he couldn’t leave the house to access diabetic foot care services that inspired Emily to make a shift. In 2024, she became a certified ad - vanced footcare nurse and hit the road, literally. “Caring for your feet is a very important factor in overall health,” Emily explains. “Regular foot care from a professional prevents the risk of infection, foot pain, and ulcers that can cause your quality of life to suffer if left untreated.” Emily stresses the importance of regular foot care assessments, one of the services she provides for people with chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. “Professional foot care can improve mobility, allowing people to stay active and take their mobility seriously. When your feet are healthy and comfortable, you can live a fuller life,” Emily adds. Emily’s foot assessments come with a personalized plan of care for each client. Her services also include nail care and treatments for corns and calluses. Client safety is also a top priority for Emily, who uses autoclaved, sealed instruments to ensure the highest standard of hygiene. “I bring a great deal of professionalism, empathy, respect and care to my clients. Building a rapport with them is what I love most about this work.” Emily attends to her own health and mobility by balancing taking care of others and running a business with playing the These teens have created their own company called E-Up Games which stands for “Elbows Up”, representing Canadian Pride. American Dictator and associated merchandise can be purchased from e-upgames.com. A portion of each sale will support the London Food Bank. The E-Up Games team (from left Jonathan, Lauren, William, Ben, and Adam) assembles games to ship to customers.
HOUSE OF VICTOR HAIR SALON Ladies Cuts and Men’s Barbering Style Cuts • Perms • Colour • Foils Look your best for the holidays! Chinese speaking? Lilly or Quin are available to serve you. CHERRYHILL VILLAGE MALL • 301 OXFORD ST., UNIT 40 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM – 8PM • SATURDAY 9AM – 6PM • SUNDAY 11AM – 5PM 519-471-4980 English & Chinese speaking stylists! Great location Free Parking FREE Conditioning Treatment 10% off Perms & Colours Mon & Thurs after 5pm 3 3 3 3
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Page 13 Byron Villager December 2025 Wortley Villager December 2025 • Page 11
a special place to live. As Nickey noted, it gave “nice visibility and an example of people willing to help.” Inspired by the response, Nickey encouraged everyone to keep the giving spirit alive by joining the Buy Nothing Byron Facebook group — a space where neighbours can continue to share, give, and help one another all year long.
Byron Kindness in Action In November, Byron resident Nickey Calford posed a simple question on Facebook: “What is one thing you need but cannot afford right now?” The response was incredible. Messages poured in from neighbours sharing their needs — and even more came from those eager to help. From clothing and furniture to appliances, games, and other household items, community members stepped up to match donations with requests, ensuring that what one person no longer needed found a new home with someone who did. “It was such a nice sense of community,” Nickey shared. “So many good-hearted people in this community. I love this community for exactly this reason.” The post was not only heartwarming but also a wonderful reminder of the kindness and generosity that make Byron such
100+ Women. One Hour. Big Impact. 100+ Women Who Care London & Area is a community group that gathers four times per year to raise money for local charities. How It Works: 100+ Women Who Care London & Area creates an immediate, direct impact by bringing together 100+ women who each com- mit to donating $100 at four meetings per year. Meetings last just one hour. Two member-nominated charities present for five minutes each. Members vote anonymously for their charity of choice. The winning charity receives the full collective donation — on the spot.
Together, we’re making a difference! Want to be part of this amazing group? Register for free at 100womenwhocarelondon.com. Facebook: 100 Women Who Care – London & Area Our next meeting is Tuesday, February 24th, 2026 at 6:30 pm
Share the Gift of the Holidays There's no place like home for the holidays, especially when home feels this welcoming. Join a retirement lifestyle community where laughter, friendship, and festive cheer make every season brighter. From twinkling lights to shared laughter over dinner — Riverstone makes every moment merry and meaningful. Call today to reserve your tour and experience life at Riverstone!
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Byron Villager December 2025
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Singing for Seniors this Season For the Glee Club at Byron Southwood Public School, singing is where their heart is. The spirited ensemble of 48 students, from Grades 6 through 8, put their heart and soul into singing everything from pop selections like “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish to “O, Canada.” This December, the Glee Club, along with the school’s Concert Band, will perform a variety of holiday selections for residents at Longworth’s Retirement Home. Afterwards, students will mingle with the residents and share cookies before heading back to school. “It was such a meaningful experience when we performed there two years ago,” says Kelly Webb, Byron Southwood’s music teacher and the driving force behind the Glee Club and Concert Band. “We cancelled our performance last year because of a COVID-19 outbreak. So, this feels very special this year.” The Glee Club performs several times throughout the year, including at the school’s Remembrance Day assembly, the Winter and Spring concerts and the London Kiwanis Music Festival, where the club has earned special recognition in the past. The Glee Club also has an exciting opportunity to perform “O Canada” at a London Knights game in February. “The students love singing together. While it takes work and dedication, it’s worth it,” Kelly adds. “They won’t remember the recesses they missed rehearsing, but they’ll remember being part of something bigger than themselves.”
The Byron Southwood Glee Club getting ready to sing their hearts out.
Kelly is proud of her students and the enthusiasm, kindness, and dedication they bring to everything they do. “Whether they’re singing for residents at Longworth, performing at the Kiwanis Festival, or standing center ice at a Knights game, they give it their all—that’s what makes the Glee Club and Concert Band such a special part of our Byron Southwood community.” Photo courtesy of Byron Southwood Public School
MOONSTONE PATH Items for the mind, body and spirit Tumbled Semi-Precious Gemstones, Crystal Clusters, Geodes, Jewellery, Daily Guidance Cards and more
Wishing you Peaceful and Happy Holidays
1289 Commissioners Rd W - Byron www.moonstonepath.com 519-473-6600
Employee of the Month October
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.
Jayden Christmas
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Byron Villager December 2025
Page 15
Byron Legion December 2025 Calendar | 1276 Commissioners Road West (519)-472-3300 Monday to Friday 12pm – 10pm, Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 7pm
December
Closing time on December 24th is 6 pm
Ring in the New Year at the Byron Legion The Byron-Springbank Legion – Branch 533 will once again host New Year’s Eve on December 31, 2025. Tickets will be available for purchase after December 3rd at the bar in the clubroom. The event is reserved seating and will be held in the Banquet Hall upstairs. Live music with the band KJ & the Motones, party favours, prizes throughout the evening and champagne at midnight. For more information, check in at the branch or call 519-472-3300.
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Byron Villager December 2025
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navigating various municipal approvals, we’re thrilled to begin construction and bring new shopping options to residents of southwest London and nearby communities like Byron,” says Paul Kitson, Planner and Developer at Westdell Development Corp. “This project has faced many challenges over the years, but we’ve remained committed to building our community through our live, work, play philosophy — with grocery-anchored retail, banks, convenience stores, and health-focused businesses that make everyday life more accessible.” Forest Edge Commons will feature more than 130,000 square feet of retail and residential space, with easy access to Highways 401 and 402, serving the growing southwest part of the city. Confirmed retailers include Bank of Montreal, Dollar Tree, and an international gourmet café, along with a pharmacy, yoga studio, dentist, nail salon, and animal hospital — creating a convenient one-stop destination for shopping, health, and everyday needs. info@gwbheating.ca HEATING • HYBRID • COOLING FIREPLACES • HOT WATER POOL HEATERS 519-857-7139 • gwbheating.ca For residents of Byron and the surrounding communities, this development means more choice and convenience close to home — and a sign of how quickly this part of London is continuing to grow. SERVICING Elgin County & All Surrounding Areas 519-652-2034 • ABCSANITATION.CA
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. All this roadwork has been setting the stage for new growth, including an exciting new addition nearby — Forest Edge Com- mons, a mixed-use development from Westdell Development Corp. This project will bring a wide range of shopping and ser- vices to southwest London, something many Byron residents will appreciate having just a short drive away. (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 Exciting Growth Minutes from Byron If you’ve been driving along Colonel Talbot Road lately, you’ve likely noticed just how much is changing in our corner of the city. Major construction work on Colonel Talbot Road wrapped up for the season, marking another big step forward for southwest London. Earlier in November, there was a short four-day full road closure near 3637 Colonel Talbot Road while crews completed sewer servicing for the York development. According to Taylor Martins, Senior Communications Specialist with the City of London, crews will be back in 2026 to finish the final layer of paving and any last touches from Diane Crescent to just south of the Colonel Talbot/Southdale roundabout. “Westdell is Southwestern Ontario’s largest commercial developer, proudly based in London. After nearly 15 years
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To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com Port Stanley Villager • October 2023
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