Byron
APRIL 2025 ISSUE 99
Villager
Byron Villager APR - 2526.pdf 1 2025-03-18 10:09:06 AM
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Making an Impact in Just One Hour! The inaugural meeting of 100+ Women Who Care London & Area brought together a generous and enthusiastic group on February 25th—what a powerful way to spend 60 minutes! Joe Douglas from Camp Stevenson and Allison DeBlaire & Michelle from 519Pursuit shared inspiring stories that moved everyone to smiles, tears, and gratitude for the good work happening in our community. In the end, 519Pursuit was selected to receive the collective donation of $5,300. Michelle shared her personal journey of living on the streets of London and how 519Pursuit gave her hope—proving that people cared without expectations. There were a lot of damp eyes when Michelle spoke. The energy that night was incredible! Want to be part of this amazing group? Join for free at 100womenwhocarelondon.com. Together, we’re making a difference!
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April 2025 Page 3
What’s Happening with the Optimist Club of Byron The Optimist Club of Byron has kicked off its 75th Anniversary year Fundraising on Wednesday, February 26th.
We had been invited to sell puzzles at the Fleetway Spare Room with the London Puzzle Swap group. This was a busy evening, resulting in meeting fellow puzzlers and receiving great puzzle donations from other vendors. Our puzzle stock is quite vast at the moment!
Spring Cleaning at Springbank Park As part of the annual Thames River Clean Up initiative, volunteers will be cleaning along the riverbank and green spaces in Springbank Park on Saturday, April 12, starting at 9 am, by clearing garbage and debris left behind by the spring melt. Bring your family, friends and neighbours out for some fresh air and exercise while helping to ensure Springbank Park stays clean and healthy for all to enjoy. For 25 years, community volunteers, landowners, clubs, organizations, and municipalities have come together during Earth Week to clean sections of the local watershed. Last year, more than 1,500 volunteers looked after 150 km of the Thames River and its tributaries. “The Thames River Clean Up is a grassroots effort to give back to the green spaces that enrich our lives as Londoners. Springbank is an iconic landmark and our largest park - we’ll need all hands on deck to ensure that its watershed and unique species can flourish this spring and beyond. ” Springbank Park volunteers will meet at 9 am, Saturday, April 12, in the upper parking lot on Commissioners Road, across from Byron Shoppers Drug Mart. If you’re interested in participating, email Sara Mills, Springbank Park’s new volunteer coordinator, at sara@novacraft.com or call 519-317-2372 to register. Each registered volunteer will receive gloves, garbage bags, and a ballot to win a Nova Craft canoe thanks to the generous support of sponsors and community partners. Secondary school students can allocate their time towards community involvement volunteer hours. For more information visit thamesrivercleanup.ca. For the Spring, we have Books and Jigsaw Puzzle Sales at the Byron Optimist Community Centre on Saturday, April 26th, from 10 pm to 1 pm . We will then move our Books and Jigsaw Puzzle sales to the Komoka Community Market on Saturday, May 31st, and June 7th, from 9 am to 1 pm. Our upcoming summer months are for planning the Fall Pickleball Tournaments, with proceeds donated to Childcan (www.childcan.com). We will have our 2nd annual singles sign-up for October 4th and, new this year, a doubles sign-up for November 15th. Watch for announcements on our Facebook page, Optimist Club of Byron, and our webpage, ByronOptimist.ca We will then go back indoors in the Fall for more fundraising events. Stay tuned for those date announcements! We look forward to having these events and meeting fellow Londoners as we celebrate 75 years of Optimism in Byron.
Byron Villager Issue #99 April 2025 Your local community connector. The 100% locally owned and produced Byron Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher & Editor: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Content Managers: Lynne WIlliams, Barb Botten Graphic Artist: Jon Botten Delivery Ambassador: Nippy Watson Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Barb at Barb@villagerpublications.com The Nick Greeson Skate Park in Springbank Park
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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DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES BYRON AND AREA
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To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com rive, Delaware, Ontario N0L 1E0 • Tel: 519-652-3201 • Fax: 519-652-2710 -363-4304 • Email: crawfordanddanyluk@cmmgbrokers.com ordanddanylukinsurance.com • 519-652-3201 OUR HOME A SPRING TUNE-UP! season to check out your home’s exterior, from roof shingles to lazing to dryer vents. Use the handy “Home Maintenance Checklist” bsite to make sure your home is safe and sound. 2681 Gideon Drive, Delaware, Ontario Aviva Abex April Echelon Intact Pal Travelers Cansure Group One preciation coverage insurer’s right to deduct from the value of your Axiom Mutual AM Fredericks Premier Group Cambrian Special Risks Signature Risk Partners South Western Group Oegema Nicholson & Assoc. Special Risk Insurance Managers Sports & Fitness Insurance Canada INSURERS THAT WE CAN GET QUOTES FROM Max Insurance Burns & Wilcox nsurance specialist, we know the lay of the land in your neighbourhood. o assess conditions affecting your home and compare your options from an insurers. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance will combine coverages for multiple types of water problems such as ground water, overland water, exterior water and sewer lines. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. Economical/Definity Forward Insurance Yarmouth Mutual Victor Insurance RIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. URHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE URANCE SHOPPER WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations HOW DOES ACCIDENT WAIVER PROTECT ME It is an auto insurance benefit that may prevent insurance rates from increasing as a result of a driver’s first at-fault accident. It can be added to a policy to protect those with a good driving record. n settling a claim for ge caused by a peril u are insured. Toll Free: 1-800-363-4304
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SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Comfortable environment. Great team to work with. Email resume to Cathy Fallowfield cathy@cmmgbrokers. com THIS COULD BE YOU! ASK US ABOUT INSURANCE FOR HOME, AUTO, COMMERCIAL OR FARM Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near a lake, river, or pond to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves, and similar major events. Drop into our office for a free flood preparation brochure or call us and we will mail it to you Coming soon: Look for our flood preparation brochure filled with tips and guides on what to do before, during, and after a flood. Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a spring thaw. Enhanced Water Damage Insurance combines coverages for multiple types of water problems, such as ground water, overland water, exterior water, and sewer lines. What kind of policy should I have for high water in the spring What is the difference between “Flood Insurance” & “Overland Water Coverage” RRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? www.crawfordanddanylukinsurance.com 519-652-3201 Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. THE INSURANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD Patty Crawford Registered Insurance Broker Cathy Fallowfield Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker S A “WAIVER RECIATION” Cathy Fallowfield Cindy Haywood Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Registered Insurance Broker Director of Operations Registered Insurance Broker
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April 2025 Page 5
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During a long journey, a lady could freshen up on board before arriving at her destination. The arm rest in the rear seating area is outfitted with a vanity case, lipstick holder, and perfume atomizer. GM President (and U.S. Secretary of Defense) Charles Wilson drove the Coupe Deville until his retirement in 1957. He then gave it to his secretary, Mary Chrysler. The license plates she put on the car that year are still with the vehicle. As he has done with so many of his acquisitions, Steve has completed a major restoration of this beautiful car. For fifteen years, Steve Plunkett turned his love of cars into the Fleetwood Country Cruize-In, an even that supported local Charities and raised over $1.7 million. “Taking a passion that I love and creating and 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.
Steve Plunkett’s 1949 Cadillac Coupe de Ville: A Prototype of Power and Luxury
In 1949, the brand new Fleetwood Coupe de Ville was the most powerful Cadillac to date in North America. This jewel in Steve Plunkett’s Cadillac collection is the original prototype for the model that was in production from 1949 until 1993. Boasting a modern V8 engine, it has 160 horsepower and reaches speeds up to 100/MPH. Steve purchased the vehicle — one of only four prototype Cadillacs in private hands — around 2012. He says it was the most famous car in the world in 2014 when he debuted it at the prestigious annual Amelia Concours event in Florida. “Everyone ran the story and pictures on the long-lost Coupe de Ville – The Wall Street Journal, Fox News, L.A. Times, New York Times, and most Canadian media.” It also garnered lots of attention at car shows when it was built. GM staged the General Motors Transportation Unlimited exhibition, later called Motorama, from 1949 to 1961. The inaugural 1949 event at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City was the first show following World War II. More than 300,000 people attended, where the Coupe de Ville was one of seven “special” cars unveiled. The show moved on to Detroit where it drew a similar number of spectators. The car has loads of power, not to mention power steering, brakes, seats, and windows. It also has many luxurious features and a storied history. Although it isn’t a convertible, one of its innovations is a custom hardtop whose design became the standard for future convertibles. The architecture omitted a window door frame, or “b” pillar, which allowed for greater visibility. The four-speed automatic transmission plus a massive 133-inch wheelbase give it a smoother ride, compared to production cars of the time that usually had a 126-inch wheelbase. Among its firsts for North America was the overhead valve V8 engine and its one-piece curved windshield. It also has a phone on board whose receiver looks like any other phone of the time. The two-way, short wave phone was a luxury only available to the wealthy. In 1949, only about six-thousand people in total subscribed to the car-phone service.
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customer service, which involves investing in technology and software for field service management, phone systems, marketing, invoicing, and payment systems. “We take pride in providing excellent service,” adds Mike. “This means being responsive in our communications, knowing the latest in plumbing technology, providing upfront pricing, and cleaning and following up after finishing the job.” Besides their deep-seated belief in customer service, Matt and Mike bring a unique talent for troubleshooting problems. “We love solving the tricky plumbing issues. The more difficult, the better,” adds Matt. “We genuinely love restoring a customer to working order.” When not working on customers’ plumbing challenges, Matt and Mike spend quality time with their families, including visiting and doing plumbing work for their grandparents, who live in Byron. “We have many fond memories of skiing at Boler Mountain and then going to my grandparents’ house to get warm and drink hot chocolate,” recalls Matt. “Now we make sure to stop in any time we’re in Byron to visit and enjoy my grandmother’s cookies.” It’s this dedication to family and community, that is at the heart of Plumbing For Life and what Matt and Mike bring to their work every day. To learn more or to request a service quote, visit www. plumbingforlife.ca or call 519-860-0219. Photo courtesy of Plumbing For Life
Plumbing For Life: The Van Praet Brothers’ Family Legacy
Plumbing For Life is more than the name of a local plumbing business operated by two enthusiastic young men. The phrase encompasses the spirit with which brothers Matt and Michael Van Praet infuse everything they do. “Plumbing For Life reflects our commitment to the trade and our customers,” explains Matt. “We’re in this business for life, and we believe that once you call us, you will be a satisfied customer for life.” Matt and Mike’s plumbing journey began around age 11 when they started working for their dad in his plumbing business during the summer holidays. Jeff Van Praet certainly taught his boys about plumbing; however, what Matt and Mike remember most are the lasting life lessons about people. “There were times when people couldn’t afford our services,” Mike shares. “We would fix their plumbing anyway. We also had customers who were elderly or had disabilities, and we’d go the extra mile to help.” “We were inspired by our dad’s work ethic and overall business ethos of helping people and providing quality work,” adds Matt as he reflects on why he and Mike became plumbers. Jeff began the family plumbing business in 1997. When he retired in 2020, Matt and Mike took over his client base and ran the company as their own. They rebranded under the new moniker Plumbing For Life in 2023. Plumbing For Life offers all plumbing repair, renovation, and installation services. They clean drains, sewers and service equipment associated with wells, such as water treatment, pumps and pressure tanks. Plumbing For Life also provides plumbing services for businesses that do renovations or building maintenance contractors. As young tradesmen and entrepreneurs, Matt and Mike envision the business reaching a new level of skill and
Mike and Matt Van Praet with their dad, Jerry
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April 2025 Page 7
An update from Anna Hopkins Our Ward 9 City Councillor
Pine Valley Lane are set for reconstruction in spring/summer 2025 to replace aging infrastructure. Bradley Avenue Reconfiguration Starting in the summer of 2025, the Bradley Avenue Extension project will extend the road to Wharncliffe Road and widen portions to four lanes, improving traffic flow and connectivity. Byron Bridge Repairs Beginning in July, the Byron Bridge will undergo critical repairs over approximately eight weeks to ensure its long-term safety and durability. Traffic Signals & New Streetlights • New traffic signals will be installed at Byron Baseline Road/ Lansing Avenue, Longwoods Road/Westdel Bourne, and Wharncliffe Road South/Morgan Avenue. • New streetlights will be installed along Wharncliffe Road South from Morgan Avenue to Campbell Street. Join Me for the Ward 9 Information Session I invite you to the Ward 9 Information Session on Wednesday, April 16, from 6 to 8 pm at L’Arche London, 448 Colonel Talbot Road. We’ll discuss the city’s Mobility Master Plan and other key ward issues. This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts and ask questions. To stay updated, sign up for my newsletter at www.annahopkins.ca. I look forward to seeing you there! Be kind to one another,
Ward 9 Updates As we move into 2025, I want to keep you informed about the major construction projects happening in Ward 9. These improvements are essential for safer roads, better infrastructure, and enhanced mobility for all residents. Colonel Talbot Road from Clayton Walk to Southdale Work continues along Colonel Talbot
As a Candidate for War will be a number of conv constituents.
Road, with a full road closure between Clayton Walk and Pack Road starting March 24 (weather permitting) for approximately 60 days. Later this spring, the Pack Road intersection will also be closed for 20 days. Once complete, this project will transform Colonel Talbot Road into a modern two-lane urban road with new sidewalks, boulevard bike paths, streetlights, and landscaping. Oxford Street West & Gideon Drive Roundabout Construction resumed on March 31 for the new roundabout at Oxford Street West and Gideon Drive. This project includes cycle tracks, pedestrian crossings, streetlighting, and underground infrastructure work. It is expected to be completed in the summer of 2025. Additionally, Woodhull Road will remain closed until full rehabilitation work is completed later this year. Local Road Reconstruction Projects Lansing Avenue, Nashua Avenue, Pine Valley Boulevard, and London Animal Care Centre • 121 Pine Valley Blvd, London www.accpets.ca • (519)685-1330 December “All they want for Christmas is You”
London Animal Care Centre 121 Pine Valley Blvd. www.accpets.ca • (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack 756 Windermere Rd. • (519) 432-4572 Dreaming of a Forever Home Adopt Today!
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Byron Villager
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Supporting local businesses keeps money in the community, creating jobs and boosting economic growth. Small businesses add character to neighbourhoods, offer personalized service and often support local causes. Here, we highlight a few of our small local businesses and emerging entrepreneurs. Let’s show them our support!
Buttercup Co., giving both Danielle and Susan a creative outlet to explore together. Despite a steep learning curve with their laser engraving equip- ment, they persevered. Their first big break came through an Instagram giveaway, which received an overwhelming response and quickly put their business on the map. Buttercup Co. specializes in custom laser engraving, allowing businesses to submit their logos, individuals to send in person- al artwork, or customers to request unique designs for special occasions and gifts. Their work has led to heartwarming mo- ments—one customer had a portrait of her beloved cat engraved on a tumbler, creating a keepsake with deep sentimental value. Schools and daycares often request engraved names on drink- ware, making the start of the school year a busy season for them. They embrace new challenges—if a customer requests something unique, they give it a try. Danielle, now a Chiropractor, loves having this project with her mom, strengthening their bond through shared creativity and teamwork. Buttercup Co. offers high-quality, permanent laser engraving that won’t wear off or fade over time. Their signature 20 oz tum- blers come in a variety of colors, perfect for both personal and business branding needs.
Buttercup Co.: A Mother-Daughter Journey in Custom Engraving
For Danielle Overstrom and her mom, Susan Smith, creativity has always been a shared passion. In June 2022, they turned that passion into Buttercup Co., a custom laser engraving busi- ness specializing in personalized drinkware. Born and raised in Byron, Danielle attended Northview Public School and later Oakridge High School. As a student, she al- ways carried a Yeti tumbler and realized how great it would be to personalize her drinkware. This idea sparked the beginnings of
For more information or to place an order, visit ButtercupCo.ca or via email at buttercupco@outlook.com.
Ryan, now 28, has been a hard worker his entire life. His work ethic started early—at just 10 years old, he delivered the Penny- saver, and as a teenager, he shoveled driveways for his neigh- bours. From 2014 to 2017, he drove the Storybook train, delight- ing kids and families in the community. But his true passion has always been pickup trucks, and two years ago, he turned that love into a business. While working full-time, Ryan started offering his truck services to earn extra income and assist those who needed a reliable helping hand. Since then, he has built a strong reputation in By- ron, becoming a trusted name for junk removal, yard waste dis- posal, and material deliveries. He frequently helps homeowners with renovation cleanup—picking up fencing, old furniture, and other items that won’t fit in a regular vehicle. Raised in Byron since 2007, Ryan attended St. George and Beal Secondary School. Now, he’s a homeowner in the neigh- bourhood himself, with hopes of expanding his business by pur- chasing a dump trailer. He’s also an active member of the Byron Neighbours Buy Nothing group, assisting people who need a truck to move items within the community. “The people of Byron have been so helpful and supportive, shar- ing my posts and recommending me to others,” Ryan says. If you need a truck, you can reach Ryan at 519-709-0782 (text or leave a message).
Byron’s Helping Hand: Ryan Estabrooks and His Pickup Truck
If you need a pickup truck in Byron, Ryan Estabrooks is the man to call. Whether it’s hauling away renovation debris, picking up building materials or transporting those large Costco purchases, Ryan is ready to help. No job is too small—he’s moved every- thing from patio sets to bathtubs, filling the gap for those who need a truck.
at the post-secondary level. His love for drumming has since evolved into a career that allows him to share his expertise with aspiring musicians of all ages and skill levels. As a dedicated drum instructor, Noah offers flexible lesson options to accommodate his students’ needs. Whether in his home, at the student’s home, or even via Zoom, he ensures that everyone has access to quality drumming education. With a consistent flow of students, Noah provides a welcoming and encouraging learning environment for beginners and experi- enced drummers alike. Beyond teaching, Noah has worked in various areas of the mu- sic industry, focusing particularly on the audio side. His passion for live music also led him to join Mental State, a punk band he has been a part of since December. Balancing performance and instruction, Noah understands firsthand the dedication and practice it takes to master the drums. Noah expresses his deep appreciation for the community that shaped him. “Byron is a wonderful neighborhood that will al- ways be home to me,” he says. With his passion for music and commitment to teaching, Noah continues to inspire the next generation of drummers right in Byron. For those looking to develop their drumming skills, Noah em- phasizes that the fundamentals are key and that mastery comes with consistent effort and practice. If you’re interested in drum lessons, you can contact him at 01noahT@gmail.com or through his Facebook page – Noah Thomson to check availability. David founded Payson Estate Maintenance four years ago with a clear goal: to create outdoor spaces that property owners love to share with their friends and family. With his wife Emily by his side—a former nurse—the couple has built a family-run business that values both quality and reliability. The husband- and-wife team divides responsibilities perfectly: David leads the mowing team, ensuring pristine lawns, while Emily focuses on gardening and aesthetic enhancements to bring out the best in every property. What sets Payson Lawns apart is their year-round full yard service, providing comprehensive lawn maintenance in the warmer months and snow removal in the winter. Their clients enjoy a seamless experience with costs divided equally throughout the year, making it easy to budget for lawn care without unexpected expenses. Ad- ditional seasonal services can be found on their website. Since David and Emily prioritize quality over quantity, they only take on a limited number of clients to ensure person- alized and thorough service. Their daughters, Daisy (7) and Penelope (9), even enjoy helping out where they can, making it a true family business. If you’re looking for a trusted team to care for your lawn and landscaping year-round, contact Payson Estate Maintenance at dave@paysonlawns.ca or 519-657-6391 or visit www.paysonlawns.ca.
Noah Thomson: A Passion for Drum- ming and Teaching in Byron
For Noah Thomson, music has been a lifelong journey that started right in the heart of Byron. Having lived in the commu- nity for most of his life, Noah attended Byron Somerset School before moving on to Saunders Secondary School. He later pur- sued his passion for music at Fanshawe College in the Music Industry Arts program. Noah has been playing the drums for over ten years, beginning in high school and later deciding to dedicate himself to music
Emily and David Payson: Creating Beautiful Landscapes in Byron
For Emily and David Payson, landscaping is more than just a business—it’s a passion rooted in their love for the Byron community. As long-time residents, having lived in Byron for nine years, they take pride in keeping their work local, helping homeowners and business owners maintain beautiful, thriving landscapes year-round.
on owning a gaming computer. His dad, Randy, saw this as an opportunity to teach him about setting goals, working towards them, and appreciating the rewards of hard work. Lucas, inspired by his older brother’s ambition, quickly joined in. Togeth - er, they embarked on a journey of learning, earning, and growing their business skills. With encouragement from their dad—who learned the value of industriousness and saving from his own father—Logan and Lu - cas have developed strong work ethics. They have also gained valuable experience in customer service, financial responsibility, and the art of conversation by learning how to communicate pro - fessionally with clients. The Busy Brothers focus on serving homes in Byron, building relationships with repeat customers who appreciate their reliabil - ity and hard work. They offer dog poop scooping, starting in the Spring, after school, and on weekends. Their work provides them with physical activity, teaches them responsibility, and allows them to engage with their community while earning their own money. Randy couldn’t be prouder of his sons for their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. Not only have Logan and Lucas learned the value of hard work, but they have also built something meaning - ful together, strengthening their bond as brothers. To hire The Busy Brothers for dog waste cleanup, contact Randy via text at 519-476-4503. recognized a simple but important need—homeowners take great pride in maintaining their properties and services like pressure washing are always in demand. In the summer of 2022, Ethan launched his pressure washing business. For the first three years, he ran the business solo. Now, in his fourth year, he has expanded his team, hiring two friends to help manage the growing workload. Ethan’s commitment to quality didn’t come overnight. When he started Power Shine, he dedicated himself to learning everything he could—from understanding different machines and cleaning chemicals to getting advice from industry professionals. He found a strong support system among other pressure washers who were happy to share their knowledge. This fall, Ethan is studying Electrical Techniques at Fanshawe College. Despite his academic pursuits, he remains committed to his business, demonstrating his strong work ethic and time man - agement skills. Beyond business, Ethan has always been active. A lifelong hockey player since the age of three, he also enjoys working out, golfing, and fishing. He understands firsthand the physical demands of pressure washing and takes pride in helping homeowners avoid potential injuries from strenuous outdoor cleaning tasks. For Ethan, Power Shine Pressure Washing isn’t just about mak - ing money—it’s about seizing opportunities, providing value to his community and building something of his own.
The Busy Brothers: Logan and Lucas Turning Hard Work into Opportunity
Logan (14) and Lucas (12) are no ordinary brothers—they are The Busy Brothers, young entrepreneurs who have been running their own business for the past five years. What started as a simple backyard cleanup for a neighbour has grown into a thriving local service that helps homeowners in Byron keep their yards clean. The idea for The Busy Brothers began when Logan set his sights
Ethan Williams: Making your Outdoor Space Shine
Ethan Williams has built a thriving business from the ground up. As the owner of Power Shine Pressure Washing, he serves the Byron and Lambeth communities, offering a full range of outdoor home maintenance services, including pressure washing, window cleaning, gutter cleaning and even holiday light installations. Ethan has always had a drive to earn his own money, believing that hard work made success even more rewarding. Inspired by friends who started a lawn care business and his brother, who runs a moving company, Ethan decided to carve his own path. He
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Elevate Your Campfire with Adult S’mores by Adam Brock NLDC performs 2024 Winterlude The students of North London Dance Centre (NLDC) performed across four shows at the Wolf Performance Hall on Sunday, December 15th. “What an amazing whirlwind it was!” exclaimed Kelly Hajar, Owner/Director. “Hundreds of our talented dancers took the stage to share their love of dance with over a thousand family members and friends – it doesn’t get more magical (or more festive!) than that! From the tiniest toes in Dance Development, to the jaw-dropping talent of our advanced dancers, every performer brought their passion and dedication to life on stage,” said Kelly. Now in their 27th season, North London Dance Centre offers more than 80 classes per week for children and adults at our 1055 Sarnia Road location. Learn more at northlondondancecentre.ca There’s nothing quite like gathering around a crackling fire, sharing laughs, and indulging in the nostalgic tradition of roasting marshmallows. But who says s’mores have to be just for kids? At Brock Manor, we’ve taken this fireside classic to a whole new level, crafting gourmet “adult s’mores” that blend sweet, savory, and a touch of sophistication. The beauty of these upscale s’mores is in the endless possibilities. By mixing and matching different cheeses, crackers, toppings, and sauces, you can create a truly unique and delicious treat. Here are two of our favorite combinations that have become staples at our campfires: Black Pepper Triscuit & Brie Delight Start with a black pepper Triscuit cracker and a cube of brie cheese. Roast the brie just like a traditional marshmallow until it’s warm and gooey. Place it on your cracker, drizzle with a bit of hot honey (you can make your own or try Mike’s Hot Honey or Peace River for a kick), add a slice of prosciutto, and top with another Triscuit. The creamy brie, spicy honey, and salty prosciutto create a perfect balance of flavors that will have you reaching for seconds. Babybel & Red Pepper Jelly Sensation For this one, start with a water cracker and roast a Babybel cheese over the fire until it’s golden and melty. Once it’s ready, place it on the cracker, top with a spoonful of red pepper jelly, and sandwich it with another cracker. The combination of the mild, creamy cheese with the sweet and tangy jelly is a game-changer. And for those with a sweet tooth? Try roasting a marshmallow and dipping it in salted caramel Baileys for a decadent, boozy twist! These elevated s’mores aren’t just a fun treat—they also make for an unexpected and impressive hors d’oeuvre at your next backyard gathering. So the next time you light up a fire, get creative, experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings, and turn your campfire into a gourmet experience.
Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack! Adam and Jenn Brock live on Whisperwood Crescent in Byron. Jenn is very creative and loves the outdoors and especially campfires. Their oldest daughter Hannah, who will be graduating in Horticulture this year, got an idea in the spring of 2024 to transform the front yard to include a fire pit. They started the cultivation of hundreds of sunflowers, first in the house and then transferred outside to create a private outdoor space for the family. Bringing people and pets together www.accpets.ca London Animal Care Centre – Licensing, Bylaw Enforcement, Adoption and Lost/Found Services: 121 Pine Valley Blvd., (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack: 756 Windermere Rd., (519) 432-4572 This winter, Jenn got the idea to ask their wonderful Byron neighbours for their old Christmas trees. She collected 23 in total and the front yard fire pit oasis was reborn for the winter. C atty S haCk THE
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Page 12 Byron Villager Page 6 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • January-February 2025
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Peggy Sattler’s Community Recognition Awards Grand Theatre announces 2024 High School Project
Warm Hearts on the Coldest Night of the Year
On March 27th, 2025 at the Byron Legion, Peggy Sattler presented the London West Community Recognition Award to outstanding volunteers whose dedication, passion and service have made our community a better place. Peggy started this Award in 2017 and to date has presented this annual award to over one hundred inspiring London West volunteers. This year’s recipients are: Debanjan Roy, Middlesex London Cricket Academy , Moumita Bose, Utsav Bengali Association London , Harjot Singh Dohil, Guru Nanak Mission Society London , Karen Prince, Hyde Park and District Lions Club , Aldona Valaskeviciene, Our Lady of Siluva London Catholic Community , Laura Wise, Woodcrest Community Pool , Jan DeRose, The May Court Club of London , Young Joon Kim, Northwest London Resource Centre , Laurie Newell, L’Arche London , Joan Fisher, Rotary Club of London South , Bukola Abdulsalam, Nigerian Association of London and Area , Rabai Debra Dressler. Shahin Pardhan, Maija Wilson, Interfaith Peace Camp , Peter Bergmanis, Jeff Hanks, London Health Coalition and Vicky Pearson, New Vision Advocates. The Grand Theatre’s renowned youth mentorship program, the High School Project (HSP) will celebrate its 26th anniversary with the Tony and Olivier award-winning Roald Dahl’s MATILDA the Musical (book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin). It will feature students on-stage and behind-the-scenes to take on roles such as stage management, props, wardrobe, scenic art, orchestra, sound, and entertainment marketing. The High School Project is open to any high school student from London and area who will be enrolled in high school in the fall of 2023, or participating in homeschooling. Ages generally range from 14 to 18. Visit www.grandtheatre.com/participate-high-school-project to learn more.www.grandtheatre.com/high-school-project
TD Wortley Branch Manager Frances Distefano, and Manager Customer Experience Andressa Barros braved the cold Feb- ruary 24 and participated in Mission Service of London’s Coldest Night of the Year walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. “As leaders of the TD Wortley Branch, it is a mission of ours to lead by example when it involves supporting our community. We have a lot to be thankful for, therefore, being visible and taking action to support fundraising initiatives that help those less fortunate is priority more than ever,” said Andressa.
South Collegiate’s Emma Bishop, 2023 High School Project
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April 2025 Page 13
Serving the mission of St. George and St. John the Divine with flour like a pancake batter. You must have a good piece of meat at the fire, take a stew-pan and put some dripping in, set it on the fire; when it boils, pour in your pudding; let it bake on the fire till you think it is nigh enough. Set your stew-pan [on a downturned pan] under your meat, and let the dripping drop on the pudding, and the heat of the fire come to it, to make it of a fine brown.” Modern-Era Yorkshire Pudding: Ingredients 3 large eggs 3/4 cup milk 3/4 cup flour 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup melted butter (Rendered beef or pork fat can be substituted for butter for a more traditional flavor.) Lent & Easter Calendar Stations of the Cross: Pray the Stations of the Cross help us make a spiritual pilgrimage of prayer through meditating upon the chief scenes of Christ’s sufferings and death. 1164 Commissioners Rd W - Byron ST. GEORGE ST. JOHN THE DIVINE 390 Base Line Rd W - Berkshire Support the Restoration of London’s Fugitive Slave Chapel
50K for 50K Chrisoula Van Oirschot is marking her 50th birthday with a meaning- ful challenge—running 50 kilome- ters to raise $50,000 for Vanier Children’s Mental Wellness. Her “50K for 50K” run takes place on April 26, 2025, in London, Ontario. Instead of a traditional celebration, Chrisoula is dedicating her milestone to a cause close to her heart: children’s mental health. As an educator, she has seen firsthand how many children struggle and how critical resources like Vanier’s DASH program can make a difference. “Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued,” she says. Vanier provides essential mental health services for children and families in London, and Chrisoula’s goal is to ensure these programs remain accessible to those in need. “This isn’t just about running—it’s about showing kids we care,” she adds. She invites the community to support her mission by running, volunteering, or donating. Every contribution helps build brighter futures. To get involved, visit the event website (www.raceroster. com/events/2025/98838/50k-for-50k) or contact Chrisoula at bymeraki.ca@gmail.com. WHILE QUANTITIES LAST: The Wortley Villager is 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. Save Time – Ride More with Vélofix Mobile Bike Repair London Seniors (55+) Games 55+ canlearn more and sign up at OSGA55plus.ca 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. 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
Stations of the Cross Fridays during Lent at 6:30PM at St. George Parish (beginning March 7) Ash Wednesday Wednesday, March 5, 9:30AM Mass at St. George Parish Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord Saturday,April 12, 5PM Mass at St. George Parish Sunday,April 13 Mass at 9AM and 11AM at St. George Parish The Chrism Mass Monday,April 14, 7pm Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica
Stations of the Cross Wednesdays during Lent at 9:30AM at St. John the Divine Parish (beginning March 12) Ash Wednesday Wednesday, March 5, 6:30PM Mass at St. John the Divine Parish Saturday,April 12, 5PM Mass at St. John the Divine Parish Sunday,April 13, 10AM Mass at St. John the Divine Parish The Chrism Mass Monday,April 14, 7pm Mass at St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
Holy Thursday Thursday,April 17, 7PM Mass of the Lord’s Supper at St. John the Divine Parish The Chapel Project aims to relocate the small wood building known as the Fugitive Slave Chapel from its current location on Grey Street to Fanshawe Pioneer Village. There it will be fully restored and repurposed to teach about slavery, the Underground Railroad, and the area’s Black histories. Built around 1848, the building is the oldest surviving structure that relates to London’s historic Black community. Good Friday Friday,April 18, 3PM Passion of the Lord Service at St. John the Divine Parish To donate to the project, visit London Community Foundation’s chapel page at www.lcf.on.ca/chapel-project or contact Dawn Miskelly, Executive Director of Fanshawe Pioneer Village at director@fanshawepioneervillage.ca | 519-457-1296 ext. 812 to learn more. Good Friday Friday, April 18, 11AM Stations of the Cross with Children at St. George Parish Friday,April 18, 3PM Passion of the Lord Service at and St. George Parish To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com
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Holy Saturday Saturday, April 18, 9pm Easter Vigil Mass at St. George Parish
Page 15
Wortley Villager
May 2022 •
Easter Sunday Sunday,April 20, Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at 9AM and 11AM at St. John the Divine Parish
Easter Sunday Sunday,April 20, Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at 8AM, 10AM, and 12PM at St. George Parish
www.springbankcatholic.ca 519-471-4220
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Page 14 Byron Villager
Grooving with KJ and the Motones KJ and the Motones is a dynamic cover band that has audiences grooving to the timeless melodies of Motown, R&B, and Soul, and they are bringing that vibe to the Byron-Springbank Legion on Saturday, April 12. The five-piece band covers the Jackson Five, Dianna Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson and other artists produced by Detroit’s Motown label during the 60s and early 70s. They also cover other Soul and R&B artists from the same era, like Aretha Franklin and Roberta Flack. Kara James, the “KJ” of the Motones and lead vocalist, is the driving force that brought the group together with her husband, Blair Heddle, who plays guitar and sings. The couple contacted Colin Botten, a fellow musician and former colleague of Kara’s and a series of casual conversations morphed into KJ and the Motones. They’ve been performing since 2022 with bass player Jerry Fletcher and percussionist Brian Hodgson rounding out the ensemble. “Everyone in the band loves this music,” adds Colin who plays keyboards and sings. “We love keeping the genre alive for our audiences and have so much fun performing it.” As former Byronites who grew up in “the Village,” Colin and Jerry will have a chance to share that love and fun with the hometown crowd on Saturday, April 12 at the Byron-Springbank Legion, 1276 Commissioners Road West, 8 pm. There will be a $10 charge for non-legion members. For more information on KJ and the Motones or to book them for a special event, visit www.themotones.ca.
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Employee of the Month February
Nowadays excellent customer service is considered as the biggest merit that a company can earn. It is the attribute that people value more than good price of a product or even more than its quality. Byron Pizza has always exceeded in customer service and now we’d like to recognize these valuable employees.
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April 2025 Page 15
Byron Legion April 2025 Calendar | 1276 Commissioners Road West (519)-472-3300 Monday to Friday 12pm – 10pm, Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 7pm Lambet Villag
LAMBETH ART ASSOCIATION 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church LAMBETH ART ASSOCIATION 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church LAMBETH ART ASSOCIATION 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church LAMBETH ART ASSOCIATION 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church LAMBETH ART ASSOCIATION 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church LAMBETH ART ASSOCIATION 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 Lambeth United Church 50th Anniversary Art Show & Sale 2025 In celebration of Earth Day 2025 Boler Mountain is having a Clean and Green Day! Help our community by cleaning up small debris and litter on the trails and property of Boler Mountain and learn about our sustainability initiatives. Please arrive at 9am on Saturday, April 26 at the main chalet. Come dressed for the weather. Hiking or rubber boots are recommended. Coffee, hot chocolate and light snacks will be provided. Please confirm your attendance by emailing programs@bolermountain.com. Earth Day Clean and Green – April 26th Looking for a New Shed this Spring?
4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 10-8 10-4 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 10-8 10-4 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 10-8 10-4 10-8 10-4 4268 Colonel Talbot Road Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2 Saturday, May 3 Free Admission www.lambethart.com 5-8 10-8 10-4 10-8 10-4 10-8 10-4 10-8 10-4
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Page 16 Byron Villager
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