Byron
SEPTEMBER 2024 ISSUE 93
Villager
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Neighbourhood Adventuring: Fair Weather OR All Weather? by Kim Fulton
It seems like the change of the season starts earlier and earlier. As soon as the calendar shifts from July to August, we’re met with all the Back-to-School vibes. And now that we’ve turned the calendar again, from August to September, it feels like full-on Fall! Sweater Weather and Pumpkin- Spiced Lattes, here we come!! But Nature tells a slightly different story — one where the progression
I call it my Neighbourhood Adventuring. But name aside, the appreciation of the sequence, the pace and the timing of what happens in nature is a wonderful way to restore balance and harmony within. Ancient tradition knew the connection between health/longevity and nature (because we are nature) and honoured it. And even though our human-made, fast-paced lifestyle may not reflect much that is natural – our neighbourhood seems to have been created with nature in mind. It’s filled with wonderful ways to enjoy all seasons! Yes, we have the parks, pools and Boler Mountain. But we also have an abundance of lovely, well-maintained paths and trails – for most of us, just steps away from our front doors. Even a walk around the block is enough to reconnect and restore a bit of harmony and keep us in the flow of it. We may not be able to change what’s on the grocery store shelves or the marketing/advertising engines of the world, but we can take simple steps to connect with and harmonize ourselves with the pace and flow and nature – by simply stepping out your front door!! Can we become All-Weather Neighbourhood Adventurers? Kim Fulton grew up in Byron and returned to our community 21 years ago with her husband and children. When she’s not “neighbourhood adventuring”, Kim is a Yoga & Ayurvedic Life and Wellness Coach who specializes in Stress Management, supporting clients through her coaching and wellness programs. She also teaches Yoga Classes in the neighbourhood. www.kimfulton.ca/wellness
and the transitions are more measured and, dare I say, graceful. As humans, we have a choice: to move with the flow of nature or to create our own pace and rhythm. Needless to say, the former choice is more harmonious than the latter, but despite this fact, our human-made pace seems to prevail more often than not. There’s no better way of connecting with nature than getting outdoors. However, it’s easier said than done when the weather turns cooler and colder as we shift through Fall and into Winter. In fact, as early as September, we often just get busier as activities get re-started. Mirroring the shorter daylight hours, our time outdoors also shortens. One of the tricks I use to keep me connected with nature is, while out for a walk (even just a short one around the block), to pick something – most often a tree or a plant – and then return to it again and again. Over the years, I’ve learned a little about what to expect in the coming season, but I am regularly delighted by how the rhythms of nature ebb and flow. The lilacs on the trail between Wickerson and Chalet Crescent return at slightly different times. The mulberries I find on the path between St. Theresa’s and Ski Valley Crescent sometimes keep me waiting. As does the brilliant yellow of the goldenrod in what I discovered is Crestwood Woods (cared for by the Fox & Robin Neighbourhood Group). The colours of the trees seem to sometimes take forever to appear and then suddenly the leaves drop. And don’t even get me started on the snow!! Each year, the season unfolds in just a slightly different way. It’s in this way that we can experience the fullness of the season and the subtle shifts that occur.
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What’s Happening with the Byron Optimists by Ken Payne July 1, CANADA DAY. Yes, once again we celebrated Canada Day at the Sports Complex with entertainment for the kids and a HUGE fireworks display at dusk. Perfect weather helped bring out a large crowd to enjoy the festivities. Book and Puzzle Sale – September 14 at the Komoka Market. There is a great selection for your leisure time. Our Club has been approved to Adopt Jorgenson Park. With this approval, we are responsible for at least two cleanup days per year. The Club is hosting a Pickle Ball Tournament Saturday, September 7, 8:15 am – 1:30 pm at the Byron Optimist Community Centre. Thanks to all of the community support, all spaces are full. Proceeds from the tournament will go to Childcan. We invite you to come out and cheer on the players. Four Spaghetti Dinners will be hosted by the Sports Complex Fundraising Group and the first one is on Wednesday, September 11, from 5 pm – 7 pm at the Byron Legion. Tickets are $16 pp, children seven and under are free. Proceeds to support the upgrading of the Sports Complex facilities. More information is on the Byron Optimist web page www.byronoptimist.ca Byron Reunion – Saturday, September 28th
Byron Villager Issue #93 Sept 2024 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 Missing: Leo the cat is terribly missed by his family after disappearing in early August from the Optimist Park area in Byron. If you have any information, please contact Jordanne at 519-319-6512. Thank you, Byron!
Byron reunions hold a special place in our hearts for many reasons. It offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with old friends, allowing us to catch up with people we may have lost touch with over the years, a chance to reminisce, rekindle old friendships and see how everyone’s lives have evolved. There will be an art raffle featuring pieces from local artists and a really interesting “Did You Know” trivia sheet. Gate receipts and all proceeds after expenses will be divided amongst the Byron Public Schools for their sports programs. Admission is $20 at the door. In addition to reconnecting with friends and neighbours that evening, you’ll have the chance to speak with representatives from the Byron War Memorial Project, which is well underway. This project has been in development for many years, and now a dedication date of November 2025 is within reach. Since 2007, Rev. Frank Mantz and his committee, including former Mayor Ed Holder, have been dedicated to establishing a larger venue for Remembrance Day services. The monument will be placed in a prominent and accessible location, within a roundabout, where it will serve as a lasting tribute to those who served, particularly in the London/Byron community, and a reminder to visitors of Springbank Park. This has been a long and challenging journey, making this progress all the more exciting. If you feel inspired to support this initiative, you can contribute to the project and be part of this meaningful and permanent tribute. Donations of $20 or more will receive a tax receipt. The Byron Reunion will be held on Saturday, September 28th, at 6 pm at the Byron Legion. Byron.ca
The mission is to support the Byron community through Eat, Shop, and Play initiatives. Whether you’re looking to discover new dining options, shop for unique local products or find fun activities for the whole family, Byron has it all. The website, www.Byronvillage.ca is designed to enhance community connectivity by bringing residents, businesses and visitors together. Visit us online today and become a part of the Byron local experience!
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September 2024 Page 5
3 WAYS 3 WAYS
Community Update from Thames Valley District School Board Trustees For this month’s Villager, we would like to recognize the contributions of Joyce Bennett, former trustee, to the community. Joyce passed away in June. Joyce was first elected as a trustee in London in 1988 and she served as a trustee for TVDSB consistently until 2022 – more than three decades of service to the community. In her time with the Thames Valley District School Board, Joyce served on committees that focused on student well- being, including the Special Education Advisory Committee, the Supervised Alternative Learning Committee, and the Equity and Inclusive Education Committee. She also provided leadership as Chair of the board for four years. She was recognized by the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association with the Dr. Harry Paiken Award for her outstanding contributions as a trustee. She was also honored as a life member of the Thames Valley Council of Home and School Associations, reflecting her enduring commitment to education and community service. Joyce’s dedication to children extended beyond her role as trustee. She was also an engaged member of several community organizations where she left a lasting impact. While the full list is too long to be recreated here, some of the organizations in which she was involved include Craigwood Youth Services, London Parent Safety Patrol, Traffic Safety Education on the City of London Safety and Crime Prevention Committee, Youth
Opportunities Unlimited, and the Community Safety Councils of Ontario. She was also instrumental in the creation of the Children’s Safety Village. Joyce was an outstanding leader in the community. She was also a colleague and friend to many in the community. We know she will be missed by those who had the privilege of knowing her. You can find Thames Valley District School Board online at www. tvdsb.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/tvdsb X (Twitter): @tvdsb / Instagram: @thamesvalleydsb
Beth Mai b.mai@tvdsb.ca 548-388-8137
Sherri Moore sherri.moore@tvdsb.ca 519-452-2000 ext. 22409
Joyce with her sons, Kevin and Scott
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not your big chain pharmacy An independent pharmacy that specializes in complementary therapy options and operates with a knowledge-based approach to combine Western prescriptions and Eastern natural remedies, Turner Drug Store, now in it’s 85th year at the corner of Grand Ave. and Carfrae Cres., is not your big chain pharamacy. Darren Dasovich purchased the business in 2021 when long- time owner Jeff Robb retired. Darren maintains the charm of the old style, community-involved drug store that prioritizes customer care, while continuing to be forward thinking and innovative with regards to technology and treatment advancements. Sweetwood Mac has played at various ven- ues including bars, festivals, performance halls, theatres, Legions, sidewalks, beach- es, private events and backyards. Some venues have included the Port Stanley Fes- tival Theatre, The Pierside Pub, Eastside Bar and Grill, Dundas Place, The Rockpile Concert Venue in Etobicoke, and the Yacht Club on Toronto Island. The store offers a wide variety of herbal, vitamin, and natural remedies not commonly found in large chain outlets, as well as all the prescription medications that are. Some of Darren’s favourite products available at Turners are: When they are not performing together, the members of Sweetwood Mac are busy with other groups. Jenn makes regular cameo appearances as Stevie Nicks across Ontario with Cam Grant’s tribute act Full Petty Fever. Lois enjoys playing frequent engagements with local music legend Smokin’ Dave in his full band or as a duo. Warren is a renowned local drummer in high demand who plays with many other artists and groups including Loveless, Delta Stone, Honeycasters, Smokin’ Dave and Ragged Company. Tony Gryner appears regularly with his sister Emm Gryner (of David Bowie and Juno Award fame) in their band, Benahart. “In September, we look forward to an appearance at the Forest Fall Fair and a private engagement at the London Convention Centre,” says Lois. “October will include a public Halloween Party at the Lambeth Legion. We are booked into 2025 including a show at the Thistle Theatre in Embro.” Tuckey We have everything you need to Spring Forward into Summer! BBQs • Lawn Mowers & Garden Tools • Lots more Ready for Summer Outdoor Living BBQs, Lawn Chairs, Patio, Lots More “Our band members connect personally with people in the crowd, the venues where we play, and the people who follow us on social media. We have made many friends in many different communities,” says Jenn. For more information about Sweetwood Mac, visit www.sweetwoodmac.com Readers can also follow the band on Facebook. by J. Bruce Parker Nicks’ duets with Tom Petty: Stop Draggin’ My Heart Around and Don Henley on Leather And Lace, as well as the memorable song by the late Christine McVie, Songbird. Band members are currently working on original music for the band to perform at a future date.
“We had a great crew this year,” reported Margaret Hopkins. “We did Charles Hunt Park and the Green as well as Wortley Road (lots of cigarette butts). Hoag and Jeff of Old South Village Pub provided FREE pancakes and sausages to the team who included: Noelle Hack, Vitalii, Mariia, Nikita, Valeiia Niemtev, Illia Bilianskyi, Eric Shepperd, Donald Phillips, Nicole Phillips, Malachy Elliott, Dan Ebbs, Brent Crowther, Dorisdey Celarie, Gwen Shugar, Amy Shugar, Theresa Morrissey, Erin, Nolan and Nathan Ross, Maya Rastogi, Anne Rastogi, Scott Johnson, Peter Hopkins, William Hopkins, Kendal Hopkins, Hailey Armstrong, Maguire Morning and myself.” Thanks to all for your time and effort. Sweetwood Mac is a tribute band you do not want to miss by Richard Young They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. In the case of London-based band Sweetwood Mac, it is not so much imitation but more a loving tribute to the band its members admire, Fleetwood Mac. Sweetwood Mac comprises six seasoned musicians: Jenn Vanderheyden (Stevie Nicks), lead and backing vocals, and per- cussion, Lois Kelly (Christine McVie) lead and backing vocals, and percussion, An - thony Krieger (Lindsey Buckingham), lead/ backing vocals, lead guitar, Chad Archibald (John McVie), bass guitar, Tony Gryner, keyboards, and Warren Stinson (Mick Fleet- wood), drums, chimes, and percussion. Fleetwood Mac Tribute band. A chance encounter between Jenn and Lois when both were performing at a private function led to Lois volunteering her services as Christine McVie. Jenn took her up on it. The other band members soon joined and Sweetwood Mac was born. Lois has lived in Byron since 2011. “It has that small town feel, where you can walk to the bank or the grocery store, go to restaurants or the legion, and have all the amenities at your fingertips,” says Lois. The band’s roots go back to 2018 when Jenn appeared as Stevie Nicks with Full Petty Fever. Together with Chad and Tony, they came up with the idea of forming a Sweetwood Mac aspires to produce an authentic Fleetwood Mac experience by channelling the band’s original California sound and delivering the signature three-part consonant harmonies which are pleasing to the ear and make listeners happy to hear. “Audiences can expect to hear their favourite Fleetwood Mac songs including hits from the Buckingham/Nicks era such as Dreams, Landslide, Rhiannon, You Make Loving Fun, and Stevie Nicks’ solo hits, as well as songs from the band’s early blues origins,” says Jenn. “Spotlights include Lindsey Buckingham’s intense vocals and intricate guitar picking on Big Love, Stevie
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Wortley Villager June 2024 • Page 11 To advertise here, please contact Cathy@villagerpublications.com September 2024 Page 7 136 Wortley Road • (519) 432-7683 M-F 9-6 • Saturday 9-5 • Sunday 10-5 Gift Cards Available! Mother’s Day Gifts for Mom! Plants & Flowers • Garden Decor • Patio Furniture Planters • Baskets and more! Home & Garden • Auto • Tools and More! Father’s Day Gifts for Dad 1255 Commissioners Rd W (corner of Boler and Commissioners) 519-471-3500 www.byronoptometry.com
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As a Candidate for War will be a number of conv constituents.
An update from Anna Hopkins Our Ward 9 City Councillor
The City is working towards a goal of 47,000 new housing units in the next 8 to 10 years, with 20,165 units approved so far. Challenges lie ahead in the planning and building process. Your feedback is vital in shaping the future of mobility and transportation in London. Share your thoughts at getinvolved. london.ca/mobility-master-plan or call 519-661-4580. Join me on October 1st from 6 pm - 8 pm at the Byron Public Library for an Information Session on the Mobility Masterplan and other planning issues. Can’t make it? Email me your comments or request a “Respect the Limit” lawn sign for safer driving in our neighbourhoods. You can reach out to me at ahopkins@london.ca or visit www. annahopkins.ca. Let’s work together as a community to make London a safer and more sustainable city. Take care of each other, 3 pm at the Byron United Church at 420 Boler Rd. Please use the Boler Road entrance. Items needed:
Let’s Talk As we kick off a new school year and community programs, navigating our congested roads becomes a top priority in our growing city of 425,000. Planning for safe and efficient mobility options is crucial, especially as Ward 9 sees significant growth in the next decade.
Residents have expressed con - cerns about road safety, particu - larly around schools, but a recent recommendation to reduce speed limits was not supported by Coun- cil, much to my disappointment. We must explore all tools for safer roads. Byron Cares Food Bank The Byron Cares Food Bank is a local outreach ministry organized and supported by the five local churches. Together, we can address hunger and social isolation in our community by continuing to meet the ever-growing demand for affordable, nutritious and accessible meals. If you wish to donate non-perishable items, please do so during the Food Bank’s operating hours of Tuesday and Friday 1 pm to
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worship services and events. At 7 pm on Sunday, September 22, there will be a time of people sharing memories and blessings they’ve experienced at Byron United. On Sunday, September 29 at 10 am, our morning worship will include guest preacher Rev. Dr. Andrew Stirling. Everyone is welcome! For more information on the ministry and fellowship offered at Byron United church, please contact our office at 519-471-1250 or visit byronunited.ca.
Byron United Church Celebrates 165 Years 1859-2024 The legacy continues . . .
Since opening its doors in 1859, the generous congregation of Byron United Church provides money and items to support people living in poverty locally and around the world. In 2011, the Byron Cares Food Bank was created, with ongoing support from other Byron congregations. Ten years ago, Byron United sponsored six Syrian refugee families (29 people) to come to London, furnishing their apartments and setting them up with schools, doctors, dentists, banking, etc. In the last several years, the congregation has seen a large influx of new members from many different countries: Nigeria, Ghana, Sudan, Congo, India, Columbia, etc., making the church family very multicultural – a real blessing to everyone! While many churches across Canada have suffered declining attendance, Byron United Church continues to grow and thrive. Rev. Dr. Greg Brawn (2008 to present) and our leadership are striving to help everyone experience the transformative love, joy, and peace of God. With deep roots in the Byron community and faith in the Lord, this dedicated and faithful congregation provides much-needed opportunities for encountering practical faith and supportive fellowship in today’s fast-paced, secular society. The church’s 165th anniversary celebrations will take place throughout the month of September, with special Sunday
Byron Church built in 1885 on Commissioners Road
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.
Employee of the Month
June – Jayden
July – Kiran
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September 2024 Page 9
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. Byron Rocked the Village Byron Legion’s 13th Annual Rock the Village event on Saturday, August 10th, was a great success. The Legion extends a special thank you to all the volunteers who made this year’s event possible. (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
It’s Western Fair Time The Western Fair first took place in September 1868. While the location, events, exhibits, and entertainment have evolved over the years, the fair has consistently offered a week and a half of fun for people of all ages and backgrounds. This year marks the 147th Western Fair, with the only interruptions occurring between 1939 and 1947, when the Canadian Department of National Defence used the grounds for the war effort, and in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. The 2024 Western Fair will run from September 6 to 15.
Western Fair 1923
Western Fair 1967
Western Fair 1986
Western Fair 1992
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Wortley Villager Jan-Feb 2024 • Page 15 To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com
September 2024 Page 11
Warm Hearts on the Coldest Night of the Year The family attended St. George’s church in Byron every Sunday. “We may have been late often, but we always got to church one way or another,” says Wayne. In December 1963, a fire broke out at the Reed home, temporarily relocating them to a vacant house on Byron Baseline. The Reeds still remember the community’s love and donations. “We received so many donations that we eventually had to ask the community to stop and redirect some of those donations to the local churches,” says Robert. 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.
Grand Theatre announces 2024 High School Project Growing Up Reed in Byron During the 60s and 70s, everyone in Byron likely knew a Reed. The Reed family, consisting of seven boys, three girls, and their parents, lived on the quiet, tree- lined Byron Blvd. The street, originally called Byron Ave, was renamed due to a naming conflict with London after annexation. 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 Olive and Bruce when they met
In the early 1940s, Bruce, who was from Kitchener, met Olive while he was in the Navy and stationed in St. John’s, Newfoundland. They were married in St. John’s, where they had their first child, Jeanette. They then moved to Kitchener, where the rest of the children were born. Over the next 16 years, they had ten children. In 1962, with their children, Jeanette (17), Cheryl (15), Wayne (13), Robert (11), John (10), Don (8), Gary (6), Roger (4), Kelly (3), and baby Joanne, the Reeds moved to Byron. Their new home was a quaint brick house with a big backyard,
Reed Family 1977
Frances Distefano and Andressa Barros As was typical for Byron youth at the time, the Reed children often found part-time work at the Hunt Club, Little Beaver, and the ski hill. John recalls working as a tow operator at the ski hill when there were just four hills. At the time, the tow was powered by a V8 engine that skiers had to hang onto to get up the hill. A strong sense of family was instilled in the Reed kids and family dinners were always filled with laughter and love. For anyone growing up in a large family, you know you have to learn to eat fast if you wanted to have a chance at seconds. The siblings all fondly remember a staple meal; stewed tomatoes and macaroni. For mom, Olive, the work to keep the household going was never- ending. Wayne declares, “My mother worked twice as hard as my Dad. I recall her doing laundry first thing in the morning and last thing at night.” Laundry was a never-ending task with ten kids. Roger fondly remembers his siblings chipping in for a new pair of goalie skates for his 10th birthday, a gesture that warmed
Olive and Bruce 1998
South Collegiate’s Emma Bishop, 2023 High School Project
where the children learned the importance of sharing, sometimes with up to seven sharing a bedroom. The younger children at - tended St. George’s ele- mentary school, while the older ones attended CCH or Westminster high school. Due to overcrowding at Westminster in the late 1960s, Saunders Secondary School was opened in 1972 and Don, Gary, Roger, Kelly, and Joanne graduated.
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Page 12 Byron Villager Page 10 Wortley Villager • April 2024
norm in the Reed household. The siblings remember their childhood fondly despite the occasional chaos. They learned resilience and the value of family support, skills that have stayed with them into adulthood. “Having a big family is a bless- ing to this day,” says Don and all the Reed siblings agree. The siblings regularly get to - gether, enjoying the addition of new in-law siblings over the years. Happy occasions are more festive, and sad situa -
Reed Family 1998
Jeanette
Cheryl
his heart. John cherishes the memories of Christmases in the Reed home. “Christmas was always a big deal at our house, with lots of family and good times.” Transportation was challenging with a large family. The siblings remember all ten of them piling into their Dad’s Volkswagen Beetle for a visit to family in Kitchener, later upgrading to a more practical station wagon. Joanne had the special designation of being the youngest in the family. Having seven older brothers allowed her to enjoy having her own room, but she was often on the receiving end of amusing pranks by her brothers. “Guess what time it is? It’s torture time!” Joanne laughingly remembers this phrase being repeated to her. The family home on Byron Blvd. holds a special place in the hearts of the Reed children. John had the opportunity to buy the home back in 2014, becoming the keeper of family photo albums and keepsakes. He often hosts their Thursday “pint nights,” where the family gathers to enjoy time together. Bruce Reed joined the Byron Legion in 1963, with most of the boys following suit and remaining actively involved. Roger is currently the 2nd Vice and John is Head of Maintenance at the Byron Legion. You can often find a Reed or two at the Legion. Bruce and Olive had 17 grandchildren and many great- grandchildren. They celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2004, surrounded by their loving family. Olive passed away in 2010, followed by Bruce in 2011. Sadly, two of the Reed girls, Jeanette and Cheryl, have also passed, but their memories live on. Homemade haircuts, broken windows, Friday night fights, hockey, hand-me-downs, pranks, and loud, boisterous meals were the
tions are mitigated by the caring and sharing of a big family. The bond between the Reeds is strong despite their differences. They cherish the security and sense of belonging that comes from be - ing part of a large, loving family, and their shared memories con - tinue to bind them together, creating a legacy of togetherness and mutual support that endures.
Reed Family 2024 Back row: Don,
Middle row: Robert, Wayne, John Front row: Roger, Joanne, Kelly Not pictured: Gary
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September 2024 Page 13
Byron area students and The Grand Theatre’s High School Project! For more than 25 years, the Grand Theatre High School Project has offered an exceptional opportunity for students to receive education and training in the working environment of a professional theatre, at no cost to the participants. This year, the project presents the Tony and Olivier award-winning Matilda The Musical. Let’s meet some of the Byron area participating students: Learn more at www.grandtheatre.com/event/ma
BEA SNIDER (Scenic Art) “Any experience like this where I am put in a situation where I get to work with others to complete a project or to reach a goal I think is incredibly valuable, not only because of the benefits that come from knowing how to work as a team, but the experience of knowing how I like to fit into a team effort.”
REAGAN BERDAN (Wardrobe) Reagan’s close friend Morrigan Beharriell participated in last year’s High School Project, which inspired Reagan to apply!
ETHAN PICKETT (Rudolpho) “I will continue learning how to face adversity and how important it is to ask for advice. All my life I didn’t know how to deal with pressure and balance different tasks, but during Phantom last year I saw massive growth regarding my time management. This is only one way this experience will continue to give me maturity for the rest of my life.”
Roald Dahl’s
the musical
book by
music & lyrics by TIM MINCHIN
DENNIS KELLY
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Page 14 Byron Villager
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 Today, L’Arche London operates three houses in Byron and Westmount, each with four or five core members who are living with intellectual disabilities. Assistants live there too, offering support as needed and creating a home with the core members. “The homes are vibrant places of belonging where core members and assistants live together,” explains Mary Bee Creating a World Where Everyone Belongs Creating a world where everyone belongs is at the heart of L’Arche London and is front and center of everything they do. At L’Arche, people with and without intellectual disabilities live, work, and play together, discovering the gifts and abilities of one another and creating meaningful relationships and community connections. L’Arche London is part of the International Federation of L’Arche communities worldwide. Founded in France in 1964, there are now more than 150 L’Arche communities in over 38 countries, organized by zones and regions. L’Arche London is one of eight communities in the L’Arche Ontario region. In 1991, a small group of parents of children living with intellectual disability decided they wanted a L’Arche community in London. They began gathering to talk and dream, celebrate birthdays, and support one another. Over time, they welcomed other families to share meals, faith, and celebration. This core group continued meeting until they formed a board in 1994, and then in 1997, L’Arche London officially began with the opening of Cana, their first home.
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Haworth, Community Leader/Executive Director of L’Arche London. “It feels like family, with everyone contributing, living side by side, and using their unique gifts to create community.” L’Arche London also built the Gathering Place in Lambeth as a home for their offices and a place to offer dynamic programming that addresses the wider community need for programs that offer meaningful work and engagement for anyone living with intellectual disability. The Gathering Place has several music, art, drama, therapeutic movement, and cooking programs. A popular one is Monday Morning Music Club, a free, dynamic sing-along where everyone who wants gets to lead. The programs at L’Arche London are not only engaging, but they’re also innovative. The Bonjour Café was the first café in London founded and run by people with intellectual disabilities. It has recently reopened after a long closure due to COVID. L’Arche London also offers adult education and vocational programs, such as Quest, TAYke Off!, Camp, and DISH that help people find community and develop life skills and leadership. L’Arche London’s impact goes beyond their homes and programs. They encourage their core members to engage with the larger community through several kinds of outings such as walks in local parks, participation in their church communities, seasonal events and markets, grocery shopping, and attending sports events, to name a few. Creating a world where everyone belongs means honouring the unique gifts of everyone with and without an intellectual disability and fostering relationships that acknowledge those gifts. “We know communities are better when the talents, experiences, and insights of people with intellectual disabilities are shared,” says Mary Bee. “L’Arche London wants to be a bold sign in the world that everyone belongs!” For more information about L’Arche London and its programs, visit www.larchelondon.ca, call 519-652-9778, or email office@ larchelondon.org. Photos courtesy of L’Arche London
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September 2024 Page 15
Byron Legion September 2024 Calendar | 1276 Commissioners Road West (519)-472-3300 Monday to Friday 12pm – 10pm, Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 7pm
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Page 16 Byron Villager
This personalized method isn’t limited to children. Adults, too, can benefit from honing their cognitive skills, breaking free from passive learning, and thinking more actively and effectively. Unlike many large corporate entities, Oxford Learning has grown organically. The company’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that the brain can change its pathways and that cognitive skills can be improved at any age. Nick Whitehead envisions a future where children can think better and more actively, making informed decisions that will positively impact the world. He believes that if children are taught to think independently and critically, they will grow up to be adults who can tackle global and local challenges more effectively. Nick, who lives between Kilworth and Byron, is a proud father of five and grandfather of nine. He believes that the benefits of Oxford Learning extend beyond academics, fostering higher self-esteem, self-acceptance, and a better understanding of the world and one’s place in it. One particularly touching story from the early days of Oxford Learning involves a grandmother who brought her grandson to the centre. The boy had behavioral problems, and the family couldn’t afford much. After working with him for two years, not only did his grades improve, but his attitude and focus also changed dramatically. It was as if he had been reinvented. “The Oxford Learning story continues,” says Nick. “It’s a passion play.” The company is driven by passionate individuals who share emotional and inspiring stories of transformation. Oxford Learning Centres continue to make a significant impact on students’ lives, proving that there truly is a better way to learn.
Oxford Learning Centres: A Family-Based Success Story
Nick Whitehead, the founder and owner of Oxford Learning Centres, has dedicated his life to revolutionizing the way students approach thinking and learning. The story of Oxford Learning is a testament to a family- based business and its determination to make a real and lasting difference in education. It is a story of commitment to the idea that there is a better way to learn.
Oxford Learning was founded by Nick Whitehead in 1984 in London, Ontario. The first location began with just a few simple programs, at a time when cognitive learning was still a new concept in education. Nick’s own experiences in high school during the 1960s were far from encouraging. Questioning teachers was not acceptable, and the rigid system didn’t cater to different learning styles. However, Nick’s inquisitive mind led him to John Holt’s book, How Children Fail, which argued that the traditional school system was not the best way for students to learn. This book had a profound impact on Nick, and he corresponded with Holt until his death, discussing alternative ways to teach and learn. Nick pursued his PhD in philosophy in the United States, specializing in the Education Community of the English Department. Following the teachings of cognitive scientists such as Vygotsky, Piaget and Feuerstein, Nick became a pioneer in the cognitive approach to learning, challenging the traditional education model focused on obedience and rote learning. Inspired by alternative educational methods and the success of experimental approaches, Nick was motivated to create a better way to teach. Nick initially aimed to open a private school focused on cognitive learning. He gathered an informal group of colleagues to develop ideas, particularly for First Nations education. As parents began to see the value in these methods, demand grew, leading to the opening of the first Oxford Learning Centre in Westmount in 1984. Nick realized he needed to learn marketing to expand, and soon, the learning centre was filled with enthusiastic students and parents. Today, Oxford Learning has grown to become Canada’s largest supplemental education provider, with 136 centres in Canada and 30 (and counting) in the United States. Oxford Learning Centres use comprehensive assessments to determine each student’s strengths and weaknesses. Based on these assessments, personalized strategies are developed to help students overcome challenges. The curriculum is built on the theory of learning through understanding, not just memorization. For example, while teaching kindergarten students numbers, Oxford Learning focuses on helping young minds understand the concepts behind the numbers rather than just memorizing them. This approach caters to each child’s unique learning needs, ensuring they can learn in the best way possible.
Your Child’s Best School Year Ever . . . Begins at Oxford Learning! Discover the difference Oxford Learning can make. Don’t wait. A better school year begins today!
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September 2024 Page 17
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