Hometown Strathroy - Caradoc May 2025 Issue 53
To learn more, visit www.holisticallyyourswellnessandhealing.com, text Mimi at 226-373-2179 or email mireilleg8@hotmail.com or find her on Facebook and Instagram. All photos courtesy of One12 Photography
Wellness is Holistically Yours in Mount Brydges
Located in Mount Brydges, Holisti- cally Yours: Wellness & Healing is Mimi Guillemette’s home-based busi - ness that does exactly what its name suggests; it offers an eclectic list of holistic services, from Reiki and Cra - niosacral Therapy to various types of massage, meditation, and more. Mimi not only has over 25 years ex - perience as a nurse, but she is also a cancer survivor. Navigating her journey from diagnosis to healing, Mimi experienced several service gaps, like a lack of post-treatment
Mimi in her treatment room
Holistically Yours:Wellness & Healing
support, forcing her to cobble together her own healing program. “Every modality I used to heal was a brick that helped me re - build my life,” explains Mimi. “Now I use those tools to help cli - ents rebuild their health, brick by brick.” Using a holistic approach, Mimi considers her clients’ physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well-being rather than treating a specific symptom. Mimi’s goal is to help clients feel more energetic and motivated, less stressed and anxious, and more in tune with their bodies. Many people also come to Mimi for relief from chronic pain, headaches, and fatigue.
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Page 2 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
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Normally, the deceased stays at the funeral home where we can keep an eye on things and address any issues (mother nature can be delayed but she cannot be stopped). On top of that, the weatherman had forecasted a significant winter storm that had the potential of closing roads. My boss acquiesced to the important request, and we delivered the gent to the place he loved. It wasn’t an hour after we returned to the funeral home that the snow begun to fall. By morning, there was four feet of snow and not a plow in sight. The old lady was literally snowed in, along with her dead hus - band. We called frequently to see how she was doing. Instead of being completely freaked out by the situation, she was fine. Actually, she was grateful. She was grateful for the snowstorm that gave her more time to sit with her husband, next to the fire - place as they always had done on snowy days. She taught me that life (and sometimes death) is made a little better by focus - ing on the falling snow, not the shovel.
The Lodge Lesson by Bill Denning Back in 1999, I was a newly li - censed funeral director working in the near north of the Bruce Peninsula. My boss was a very hard working and thoughtful person. He loved his profession, and he loved the families he served. But he was also a worri - er. One day we took a death call that I thought was going to worry him into an early grave. It was early January when the owner of a local lakeside resort died. He and his wife operated a historic lodge that they called home for many years. The lodge was built in 1949, constructed of
timber from the surrounding woods with a huge field stone fire - place as the centrepiece. People would come from all over to en - joy the peace and the beautiful sunsets. There was no place in the world the old fellow would rather be so it came as no surprise when his wife asked if she could have his visitation and funeral in the “great room” of the lodge on the banks of Lake Huron. I was excited to help facilitate this request, but my boss was concerned. This was to be a two- or three-day wake with the guest of honour remaining at the lodge, laid out in his casket.
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Strathroy-Caradoc in Good Hands There’s a new chief in town. Brad Bigrigg happily stepped out of semi-retirement and into the position of Strathroy-Caradoc’s Interim Fire Chief, effective March 31, 2025. Brad will remain at the department’s helm for up to six months while Council searches for a perma - nent Fire Chief. As the Interim Fire Chief, Brad provides leadership and support for the team of 80 volunteer firefighters, who are trained and provincially certified as the community’s first responders. “My focus is to ensure that we’re all moving in the same di - rection regarding service delivery and safety,” Brad says. “I also respect that our volunteer firefighters give gener - ously of their time, and I want them to feel supported.”
Hometown Strathroy- Caradoc Issue #53 May 2025 Your local community connector The 100% locally owned and produced Hometown Strathroy- Caradoc is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher & Editor: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Content Manager: Lynne WIlliams All articles by Lynne Williams unless noted otherwise Graphic Artist: Jon Botten Advertising: Gloria Rae Gloria@villagerpublications.com 519-495-4564 Debbie Mindorff Debbie@villagerpublications.com 519-870-3203 Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Barb at Barb@villagerpublications.com Firefield Landscape Supply Ltd. in Strathroy
Chief Brad Bigrigg
Brad loves working with volunteer firefighters because of their sense of community. “The people who join are there to give back to the community, and help people,” he explains. “They also have a ‘get it done’ attitude. They quickly identify the problem and implement the best solutions for resolving it.” While Brad began his career as a police officer in Halton Region, Ontario, he has spent the last 42 years leading volunteer fire departments across Southwestern Ontario. He was first introduced to firefighting when he became a volunteer firefighter while working on the police force. When a fire marshal position opened, Brad applied because it meant regular hours, which suited his young family at the time. Over his career, Brad held progressively more senior positions until he became Caledon's Fire Chief, where he stayed until 2012. His last job was as Interim Fire Chief in Mapleton before he retired in May 2024. While the work is challenging, Brad finds it immensely rewarding. “You feel an immediate sense of gratification knowing that you’ve made a difference when you do your job right,” he explains, recalling one call he attended. An eight-year-old boy had his head pinned in a car accident: “I’ll never forget the fear on his face, then the look of happiness and relief once I got him released.” Nominative determinism is the idea that people gravitate toward areas of work that reflect their names. With all his years of experience, it’s not hard to imagine Brad Bigrigg at the wheel of a fire truck – or department – rushing to an emergency. Fire safety starts at home · Make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working. · Change removable batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors twice a year. · Replace smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with built-in batteries every 10 years. · Create an emergency escape plan and make sure the entire family knows it. · Once you’re out of a burning building, stay out.
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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waiting lists. Some of the adult summer pro - grams include women’s outdoor soccer, beach volleyball and basketball. The list of spring special events includes Kick Off Night Market (May 17), Community Fest Movie (June 7) and Hometown Festival (June 12 to 15). Other exciting summer events include Ribfest (July 4-6), Light Up the Night Market (August 12), Mount Brydges Movie Night (August 16) and the Cultural Night Market (September 20). As you can see, there is a lot to do for all ages in Strathroy-Caradoc.
Mayor’s Message In March, I was privileged to attend one of my favourite events of the year, the closing dinner put on by the Municipality’s Junior Chefs pro - gram. The work these kids do is amazing and the food is excellent. Thank you to the hard work of our Community Services team, which organized this and our other winter programs. We now switch to our spring programs, which are well attended, and in fact, have waiting lists, putting us close to, if not over, capacity on many programs. Along with the mainstays such as Junior Carpentry, youth volleyball, badmin - ton, and archery, staff have added Introduction to Art, Lego Builders, soccer, and more. Our ongoing seniors’ programs also offer seniors exercise and pickleball. As we move into summer, the demand for youth programs has grown immensely and we have responded. The pool is well-used and an integral part of the community, and we hope to open it in early June. Having said that, our regular swimming lessons are already sold out, including the recreational and competitive swimming teams. Summer camps are also well attended. Last year, 1,850 participants attended four pro - gram streams: aquatic, specialty, sports, and themed. Again, most camps are sold out with
Colin
Colin Grantham, Mayor 519.245.1105 x 251 cgrantham@strathroy-caradoc.ca www.strathroy-caradoc.ca
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year before Lauren’s diagnosis. Despite that short time, neigh - bours, friends, teachers, and strangers organized meal trains and donated gas cards and cash to help the family. “They thought of everything, even bringing things for Mar - shall,” adds Liz. “It was unbeliev - able and humbling to know all these people were there for us.” Lauren rang the bell in October 2021, celebrating the end of her treatments and being declared cancer-free. Her bravery neck - lace, with hundreds of beads, was as long as she was tall.
Mount Brydges Student a True Champion When you look at Lauren Taylor, you see a typical 10-year-old, bright-eyed and full of energy, playing softball and performing in the school play. What you won’t see is that Lauren is a cancer survivor whose journey with leukemia began when she was four years old. Six years later, Lauren is cancer-free and the recently named 2025 Chil - dren’s Miracle Network Champi - on Child for London’s Children’s Hospital and Children’s Health Foundation (CHF).
Lauren and her little brother Marshall display the medical glove balloons that Ollie The Therapeutic Clown made for them.
Lauren holds the beginning of her Bravery Bead collection,
Every year, children’s hospitals across Canada and the United States select a Champion Child
which is funded by donor generosity.
Today, Lauren is a typical 10-year-old, except she will add inter - views, meet and greets, and presentations to her list of activities for this year. Lauren also looks forward to helping other children and their families through their medical journeys. Whether she writes encouraging notes or makes an uplifting video, Lauren wants those families to know they’ll be okay. “I'm honoured to be a Champion Child,” Lauren adds. “It means I can support other families like my care team and community supported me.” Several resources critical to Lauren’s care exist because of funding from CHF donors. To learn more about Lauren’s story and the Children’s Health Foundation, visit childhealth.ca. Photos courtesy of the Taylor family
as their ambassador, representing thousands of children re - ceiving medical care. By sharing their stories, these children demonstrate the impact of the hospital care they’ve received and encourage other children and their families who are navi - gating their own medical journeys.* Lauren’s journey began in the summer of 2019, just as plans for camping and beach days were underway. Like many four-year- olds in Mount Brydges, Lauren had just finished her first year in junior kindergarten at Caradoc Public School and was playing on the local blast ball team. That all changed overnight. “Lauren had become less active, and random bruises started appearing,” explains Liz Taylor, Lauren’s mom. “We thought it was probably fine, but we took her to our family doctor for some routine bloodwork to be sure.” Twenty-four hours later, the doctor gave them the news that Lauren might have leukemia. Liz packed a few things and drove to the Children’s Hospital in London, where Lauren’s care team was ready for her. Lauren spent a month in the hospital, undergoing invasive procedures and strong medications. She had a dedicated team looking after her, including expert staff from Paediatric Oncology, the Child Life team, and the Paediatric Family Re - source Centre (PFRC). Deborah, the Child Life Specialist assigned to Lauren, helped guide the Taylors through the treatment process and taught Lauren coping strategies to manage her pain and fear. Ollie the Therapeutic Clown was one of Lauren's favourite diversions. Get-well cards from her classmates and visits from her best friend, Maddie, and her little brother, Marshall, also helped dis - tract Lauren from the stressful things she was facing. Lauren’s team helped her create a bravery-bead necklace to mark her journey. “I got a bead for everything that happened to me, like pokes, chemotherapy, lumbar punctures,” explains Lauren. “We put the beads on a string so I could remember what I went through.” Back home in Mount Brydges, the community also rallied to help Lauren and her family. The Taylors had moved to Helen Street a
Taylor family holding up Lauren’s banner that the neighbourhood had made.
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Are you familiar with all the services that pharmacists can offer? Your pharmacist will assess your situation and make the appro - priate recommendation, such as discussing lifestyle factors, rec - ommending an over the counter medication orreferring you to a doctor. In many provinces, pharmacists can also prescribe cer - tain types of medication for minor health problems. Some fees may apply for this service. For more information, don’t hesitate to consult your pharmacist. In conclusion, pharmacists are an available and accessible health resource, usually without an appointment, any day of the week. Consult them if you have any questions about your health. Source: www.guardian-ida-remedysrx.ca/en/article/pharmacist-tips-medica- tionfor-you-and-your-family#section5
Your Pharmacists can help with Medication Questions Michael Gleiser Owner/Pharmacist Bosson’s Pharmacy & Home Health Care
Your pharmacists medication tips for you and your family To get the most out of a treatment, it’s important to take it as pre - scribed. However, you may sometimes run into some problems or have some questions. In such cases, you can count on your pharmacist to find solutions for you. My teenager feels ill after taking some medication. What should we do? If you think a treatment may be causing an adverse effect, con - tact your pharmacist. The effects may be caused by the medic tion, may be a symptom of the health condition being treated, or even be due to another health issue. Most adverse effects are minor and disappear on their own. If not, they can usually be relieved through simple measures or over-the-counter products. It is rare that a treatment has to be stopped due to adverse effects. Regardless of the situation, your pharmacist is here to help you find a solution. My spouse is already taking several types of medication. How do we know if a new treatment is compatible with the others? Are you worried about potential interactions between various treatments? Your pharmacist is knowledgeable in this matter. Over-the-counter medication, natural health products, and even certain foods can cause an interaction with prescription medica - tion. Some drug interactions are more serious than others. Your pharmacist can analyze the situation and make the appropriate recommendations. Can I share my medication with someone who has the same health problem I have? The answer, very simply, is NO. Under no circumstances should you share your medication with someone else without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. The other person may already be taking medication that is not compatible with yours, or may have a health problem that is incompatible with the effects of your me ication. Even though you are trying to help, you may actually be harming this person! There are non-prescription and natural products available for my health problem. How do I choose the right product? Ask your pharmacist for advice, especially if you’re already taking other medication. Your pharmacist will ask you some que stions about your symptoms, health conditions and cur - rent medications, as well as will give you tips to help relieve or prevent your symptoms, or will recommend a suitable product for your needs. Your pharmacist may also refer you to your doctor, if necessary.
Monday-Friday 9am-6pm / Sat 9am-3pm
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Page 8 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
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ARTIST OF THE MONTH
joined the Art Group – Strathroy Caradoc soon after moving to Strathroy a year ago. Elva enjoys nature, walking in the woods, and observing ev - erything around her. Whether it’s light streaming through a tree, clouds traipsing across the sky, or water droplets adorning a spider’s web, these elements of beauty make their way into Elva’s art. She has started ex - ploring intriguing architectural elements, like doors and win - dows, as well. Elva knows from experience that if you want to paint, all you need to do is try. “Don’t let the fear of not being good enough hold you back,” she says to anyone searching for their inner artist. “There’s always something valuable in whatev - er you create, even if it’s simply a learning experience.” If you'd like to see more of Elva’s artwork visit: www.theartgroupstrathroy.com
Finding Your Inner Artist Elva Walther always appreciated art. She spent many hours visiting galleries and museums, admiring the artists on display. She had al - ways assumed that she had no nat - ural ability herself and, therefore, believed she couldn’t paint. It turns out that all Elva needed was a little encouragement and time to find her inner artist. A conversation during a visit to her favourite gallery in Oakville prompt - ed the owner to persuade Elva to try their watercolour print-making class. “Having an interest but no talent made the prospect daunting,” explains Elva. “But when I tried it, I was hooked immediately.” (226) 998-8703 Enhance Physical Health, Confidence and Self Esteem with Sifu Carlos Ferraz
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After retiring from her career with a customs brokerage, Elva had the time to turn the seeds planted from the print-making class into a new passion. “It felt like an exciting new world was suddenly available to ex - plore,” she adds. 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. Elva eagerly tried anything that looked interesting. She watched YouTube videos and took classes in several mediums like acryl - ics, charcoal, coloured pencils, and alcohol inks, but watercolour won her heart. "It's magical how the colours blend and flow on the paper. The unpredictability is very appealing.” Even now, as an accomplished artist with work hanging in a for - mer exchange student’s house in China, Elva pushes herself to learn new techniques, including taking a wood carving class at the Strathroy Museum. “I’m still a student of art with much to learn, but I love that.” Another way Elva nudged her inner artist into the open was by joining painting groups to get inspiration and guidance. She
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Bulldogs Had Howling Good Time While injuries and near tragedies punctuated the season, the Mount Brydges Bulldogs had a great year of hockey overall. They came back from a slow start to land a spot in the PJHL playoffs and recorded several regular season and playoff highs. Ending the regular season in fourth place, the players with the top five goals and assists points were Nolan Griffiths (46 pts), Alex Laszlo (42 pts), Ben Landers (35 pts), Logan Gianelli (34 pts), and Logan Forster (31 pts). Goalie Aiden Berry faced 802 shots (SA), letting in 61 (GA) during the regular season for a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.77. The Bulldogs' effort was rewarded with a round-one playoff spot against the North Middlesex Stars. After a scrappy ex - change, the Bulldogs entered round two, ready to keep up the fight. Injuries and a much-improved Petrolia team stopped them in their track. However, the Bulldogs can hold their heads high, knowing they gave it their all. The top players in points during the playoffs include Noah Cameron (19 pts), Nolan Griffiths (12 pts), Ben Landers (11 pts), Nathan Lavender (10 pts), and Alex Laszlo (9 pts). Aiden Berry stayed true to his record with a GAA of 2.85, stopping 428 shots (SA) and only allowing 32 (GA). With hockey over, the Bulldogs are turning their attention to more recreational pursuits as they host the Annual Al and Drew Downer Memorial Golf Tournament at Echo Valley Golf Club, Saturday, June 21, 2025. The tournament is a team fundrais - er held in honour of Al and Drew Downer. Drew coached the Bulldogs, and Al was a fan who supported the team for over 25 years. You can still donate to the team even though registration for the tournament is now closed. Send e-transfers to Mount Bry - dges Bulldogs JR C Hockey Club at bulldogsjrctreasurer@ gmail.com. The Bulldogs extend their deepest, most heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers, board members, sponsors, and Fizzy and the fans who cheer them on at every game. The Bulldogs could not do what they do without all of you!
The 2024-2025 Mount Brydges Bulldogs
If anyone is interested in joining the board or volunteering next year, it’s never too early or too late to get involved. Contact General Manager Brian Griffiths at bgriffiths9494@gmail.com. Photo courtesy of KPH Photography
Award-winning Bulldogs Most Improved: Nathan Solomon Most Dedicated: Logan Forster
Most Defensive Forward: Ben Landers Most Defensive Defensemen: Alex Laszlo Most Offensive Defensemen: Nolan Griffiths Rookie of the year: Logan Gianelli Top Scorer: Nolan Griffiths Regular season MVP: Nolan Griffiths Playoff MVP: Adain Berry and Noah Cameron Most sportsman like: Jack Uniac Hockey committee Award: Cal Crinklaw President Award: Adian Berry
• Foot Care Freedom Clinic
Call 548-866-0243 11 Metcalfe Street W., Strathroy Bookings are by appointment. No referral is necessary. Visits are covered by most health insurance plans. Sonya Such BScN, D.Pod.M., Registered Chiropodist
Page 10 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
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The Strands Weaving Musical Fun In 2003, Jay Rutherford approached Bruce Locke and Steve Kent to discuss a new creative project. The long-time friends, who grew up together in Strathroy, were now in their 20s and al - ready well-seasoned musicians who had played and performed in bands since their early teens. The project Jay was proposing would take their shared love of punk rock music and mix it with fun, well-known cover songs. The result was a new band on the Strathroy bar scene called The Strands. The Strands' entertaining mix of music with a punk twist was a hit in the local club scene for the next four years. They espe - cially enjoyed keeping the dance floor hoping at the Derby Inn. By 2007, however, the boys decided it was time they took an indefinite hiatus to focus on family and personal goals. Fast-forward to the spring of 2022 when Steve decided it might be fun to reunite The Strands to play at his 40th birthday cele - bration. The trio was not shocked to find that the fun and chem - istry from 15 years ago were still very much alive. Not wanting the reconnection to end, Jay, Bruce, and Steve continued jamming just for fun. They invited Cal Hill, another old friend from the local music scene, to join them. Not long after that, The Strands were once again playing gigs regularly at bars and clubs around Strathroy and the surrounding area. The Strands is truly a homegrown band with all four members growing up in the Strathroy area and cutting their performance teeth playing in different bands throughout high school. Jay and Cal front the band on guitar, Bruce grooves on bass, and Steve works the drums, with all four belting out vocals. “We’ve had a lot of fun making music together again, and add - ing Cal to the mix has been an essential part of the Strands’ latest sound,” adds Steve. Today, The Strands are doing what they love, playing fun, ener - getic songs influenced by their punk rock roots. While the punk scene may influence their music, the band plays popular songs from many genres, adding a unique flavour to their music and encouraging their audiences to dance and have as much fun as they are. “We’ve all grown up listening to and appreciating many styles of music, including pop, punk, 90s rock, 80s metal, and even Ska,” says Steve, “But it always comes with an upbeat punk rock feel.” Momentum is growing for the brand of entertainment The Strands delivers. They had their biggest turnout recently with a packed house for their debut show at Eastside Bar and Grill in London. They are also working on a five-song EP they expect to release this summer. “We’re also hoping to book some fun shows to get people on the dance floor and have a good time,” Steve adds. The band’s name is a fitting tribute to the four fast friends who continue weaving the strands of friendship and their passion for performance with their favourite punk sounds and fun cover songs to create familiar melodies with an entertaining twist. The Strands have two shows coming up in June: Eastside Bar & Grill in London on June 6 and Strathroy Hometown Festival on June 14.
The Strands (left to right) Steve Kent, Jay Rutherford, Cal Hill, Bruce Locke
To learn more about The Strands and details about where they’re playing next, find them on Facebook and Instagram @ theStrandscoverband. Photo courtesy of Johanna Stefanick
Enjoy a family pizza night for Mother’s Day!
Happy Mother’s Day!
Su-Th 11:00am-12:00am Fr-Sa 11:00am-2:00am ORDER ONLINE AT dominos.ca 1-2-3 COMBO 1 Cheesy Bread 2 Medium Pizzas 3 Toppings on each $ 26 99
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Page 11
Mount Brydges Community Fest Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 7, 2025! The Mount Brydges Business Association (MBBA) is hosting their Community Fest and Town-Wide Garage Sale Day once again.
633 Lions Park Dr., Unit 2 Mt. Brydges, ON N0L 1W0
Mike Beattie mike.beattie@mbins.ca
Tel: 519-264-1341 Fax: 519-264-2797 1-888-264-1341
Special Wishes from your Community Businesses, Clubs, Neighbours and Friends
For All Your Insurance Needs Call - Compare - SAVE
Add Sparkle to your Christmas with a Diamond Painting! Diamond Painting Kits We also turn your pictures into a Diamond Painting. We wish you and your family a joyous holiday!
Seasons Greetings from our family to yours. Thank you for your support this year. See you in the Spring! July Shop Hop July 2 - 31 Coming Events Sewing Machines, Sales-Service, Quilting Fabric and Supplies Southwest Quilt Crawl June 2 - 14 Locally grown evergreens and shrubs, ornamental trees and more. 430 Carroll Street East, Strathroy 519-245-0304
The Ladies from The Loft would like to wish you and your family a happy holiday. We have beautiful choices for the holiday season. This year has something new! They will be doing a retail campaign that will last for the month of June. It will be their Local First Bingo. For the month of June, when you make a purchase at a participating business, you will receive a stamp on your bingo card. Every bingo card is entered into a draw for a chance to win a Local First prize pack. prdiamondpaintings.com / thepinkrazzberrydiamondpainting.com On-line orders and walk-in welcome The heart of Community Fest happens at Cenotaph Park and at local businesses up and down Adelaide Street in downtown Mount Brydges from Regent Street to King Street. 519-245-3535 This much-loved event is in its 14th year and promises a ton of free family fun for all to enjoy. Besides garage sales throughout town, there will be a host of family-friendly activities and enticing retail discounts at local businesses. 271 Metcalfe St. E.
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We would like to send a special and heartfelt THANK YOU to all of the essential workers for all they have done throughout this pandemic! We would also like to thank all of our customers for your continued loyalty and faith in us, especially during these crazy covid times! Lastly, we would like to wish each and every one of you a JOYFUL HOLIDAY SEASON, filled with family, friends and happy memories! Oil Changes Preventative Maintenance Computerized Diagnostics Brake Replacement Steering & Suspension Transmission & Engine Safety Inspections Tire Repair & Replacement
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Page 1 2 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
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Meet Deputy Mayor Brad Richards
week or two to get used to the idea, I went into what I call fight mode. Read all I could find out about Parkinson’s, searched out the Board for Parkinson’s of Southwestern Ontario. For the last five years I have been honoured to have been elected President of the Board. I have loved going around the region talking with people who have Parkinson’s and to caregivers to have a great attitude, think positive, and never give up and the importance of exercise. I have Three Life Lessons: Life Lesson # 1 Be the best you can be. Do not let anyone bully you are take advantage in any situation. Use the rule to treat everyone with respect and dignity. Be proud of who you are. Life Lesson #2 Get involved. Growing up I learned to get involved from school to family, work, and most important get involved in you community. Jump in with both feet. I found great pride when you take on a project and it has great results. Life Lesson # 3 Never give up. Try and make a difference and always give back. I have loved being involved in our community. I have so much pride in how our town has grown, things we have accomplished and the exciting times yet to come Lastly just wanted to say, I have a small card in my wallet that I have carried for years, I take it out, just to read, it helps keeping me going. The card says “what lies behind us and what lies ahead of us is unimportant as what lies within us.
I am Brad Richards and I so proud to be your Deputy Mayor for Strathroy Caradoc. I was first elected to Council for the Town of Strathroy in 1991. I was the last Reece for the Town is Strathroy and the first Deputy Mayor for the Municipality of Strathroy Caradoc. In 2013 I was elected to be the Warden of the County of Middlesex. For Antique Alley FURNITURE REFINISHING and RESTORATION
“We host this event every year in Mount Brydges as a way to spotlight the many great business - es we have in town,” says MBBA Coordinator, Amiee Bloemendal. “It’s also an opportunity for us to say thank you to the residents for their sup - port. We want everyone to come out and enjoy themselves and explore what Mount Brydges has to offer!”
more than 40 years I have been involved in Recreation in our Municipality, from baseball coach to President of Minor Baseball, to be building Chair for the Gemini Sportsplex. I am very proud of the ways over many years that Strathroy Caradoc Council have worked together to solve problem to move our community ahead. I think we have shown how municipal councils should act, its a team effort, and add a great staff, it’s a winning combination. I was born in London, grew up on a farm on the Denfield Sideroad, raised by a single mom. Living on a farm, especially a dairy farm teaches you a lot of good life lessons. I worked for Canadian Tire for over 40 years, first at the old location where Shoppers Drug Mart is now, then to the location where Staples is now. In 2003 i was honoured to be an owner of a Partsource in London, which is in the Canadian Tire Family. I retired from Canadian Tire at the end of 2015. I am married to my lovely wife Johanna, and have three Great grown daughters and five grandchildren who are so special in my life. On May 3,2009, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, which came as a shock but I knew something was off. Taking a Don't replace.... RESTORE! 226-926-3178
All are welcome, whether you are from Mount Brydges, the surrounding townships, or just passing through. Festivities begin at 10 am and run until 2 pm. All activities are fami - ly-friendly and free. Here’s a look at some of the highlights you can look forward to: Garage sales will be happening all over town. To submit your garage sale information, email Amiee at amieebloemendal@hotmail.com or message the MBBA on Facebook. In addition to being a general sponsor, the Municipality of Strath - roy-Caradoc is also hosting the Bouncy Castle at Cenotaph Park again this year. Be sure to stop by and say hello. While you’re in Cenotaph Park, enjoy face painting sponsored by Kevin Kingma and Movie Night in the park after dark, sponsored by Mainstreet Credit Union and Variform. We will, of course, have our regulars that day, vendors in the park, a DJ in the park, a used book sale at the library, food vendors, crafts and activities around town at businesses. You’ll find lots to do!
Follow me @antique_allies
Strathroy
Su-Th 11:00am-12:00am Fr-Sa 11:00am-2:00am
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Page 2 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc • April 2020
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
Page 1 3
Highway 402: 102 Kilometres of History by Crystal Loyst It may not be Route 66 or the Trans-Canada Highway, but the history of Kings Highway 402 is an extensive one, although it has only been an active highway since 1982. At its creation, Highway 402 meant something different to everyone – from ru - ral families and construction workers to politicians and activists. After the completion of the Blue Water Bridge in Sarnia in 1938 a six-kilometre highway named the Blue Water Bridge Approach was constructed leading up to the bridge. However, with the onset of World War II construction stopped. Between 1950 and 1974, ‘the Golden Age of Roads’, highway travel throughout Canada increased dramatically, and in 1953 the Blue Water Bridge Approach became the 402, a “400 series” designation, indicating that it would be a four-lane highway. And in 1957 it was announced that the 402 would be extended from Sarnia to Highway 401 in the London area. Finding the most cost-efficient and appropriate route for the highway was extremely important and took years to finalize. Land had to be expropriated and purchased to allow construc - tion to go ahead. From Sarnia to Strathroy-Caradoc the 402 followed a straight route, in most cases going between farms rather than cutting through them. Once the highway reached Strathroy-Caradoc it took a turn to the southeast until meeting the 401. This was partly due to the angle of Strathroy-Cara - doc’s original survey and the existence of environmentally sensitive areas. The route would close a number of conces - sion roads, cutting neighbours off from each other, affecting people on Walkers, Century and Falconbridge Drives. Over ten different routes for the 402 from Strathroy to the 401 were proposed: there was opposition to each of them. 1973 was a pivotal year for public demonstrations and concerns over the location of the highway in the Strathroy-Caradoc area. Residents were most concerned about preserving farm - land and community identity. The ratepayers in Campbellvale, just east of Mount Brydges, objected to the 402-corridor plan that would cut through their community. Government officials conceded that it “might” be possible to retain Campbellvale through careful engineering. In the end, the chosen 402 route went just to the east. “Citizens for Reconsideration of the Freeway Route/402 By - pass” was organized by concerned citizens. One of the lead - ers was Bill Siegel, a Western University Professor living in Caradoc. In January 1974, Bill and the group went to Queen's Park. They pointed out to officials that agricultural productivity would be damaged, handing out fruits and vegetables to make their point and suggesting other options, including widening existing roads and improving the rail system. But it was too
late. By 1974 the shovels were ready to go in the ground, and the group gave up its battle against the highway. The highway was completed in sections. As with many con - struction jobs, there were potential hazards. On July 9, 1981, a worker was hit and killed by an earth mover just east of Highway 81 while directing traffic and counting loads of dirt. Mike Rose lived on the 9th Concession in Caradoc and had a wife and two children; he was only 39 years old. November 1982 saw the last section of the 402 completed, with a ribbon-cutting under the overpass on Centre Road (interchange 65). Despite the difficulties along the way the opening brought an enhanced transportation network and in - creased opportunities for economic development to commu - nities along the route and has been a boon to the Strathroy area ever since. Photo courtesy of Museum Strathroy-Caradoc; Strathroy Age Dis- patch negative collection Save our Community and other signs mirrored the feelings of nearly a hundred South Caradoc Township residents who turned out for a rally at the Mount Brydges Community Centre on Wednesday evening, June 20. The residents were protesting the fact the new 402 study corridor runs through their area. The last of a series of 402 information meetings was in progress in the hall when the residents arrived. Age Dispatch, June 28, 1973
Page 14 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
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Visit the Strathroy-Caradoc Homeshow May 3rd, 2025
Jayden’s Mechanical: Excellence Delivered Jayden's Mechanical, an established electrical and mechanical company based in Exeter, Ontario, offers a range of top-notch services and products that set it apart in the industry. With a commitment to excellence, Jayden's Mechanical delivers ex - ceptional quality and expertise in every project, making it a trusted name since its establishment in 2015. Their head office is in Exeter, Ontario, and they have branch - es in London and Goderich, so Jayden's Mechanical proudly serves Southwestern Ontario. This strategic expansion reflects their dedication to meeting the diverse needs of their clients across the region. At the helm of Jayden's Mechanical is a team of stellar employees who are highly skilled, dedicated and valued. Their passion lies in helping people by addressing current challenges and laying the groundwork for innovative solutions in the future. This customer service approach forms the backbone of their business, driving them to deliver top-tier services that satisfy expectations. They work with trusted brands and pride themselves on quality craftsmanship across all three divisions: Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical. Offering service and installation for residential, com - mercial, and agricultural projects. Jayden's Mechanical's success is built on a foundation of expe - rience, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. As they continue to grow and evolve, they remain committed to providing exceptional services and products.
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Brodies: Lawn & Pest Pros Since 1952 Brodies Property Services has been providing lawn care and pest control services in the Strathroy and surrounding areas since 1952. They offer weed control, fertilizer and insect control ser - vices, aerating, seeding and rolling. Due to increased demand, they offer full-season mosquito and tick control programs, per - mitter insect control, and cluster fly programs for their rural and farm customers. They specialize in wedding and event mosquito control, so book your treatment soon if you are planning either for this season. Last season, they introduced a new “liquid aeration” product. "We are always looking for new and innovative eco-friendly products to help our customers," says Rob Richards, owner of Brodies Property Services, " and we are giving a free liquid aer - ation application with any program booked this season." Rob purchased the company from Ted Brodie in 2022 after man - aging two of Southwestern Ontario's largest lawn care companies since the 1990s. “I love returning to owning and running a local - ly and family-owned company after working in a large corporate environment. We have the flexibility to customize anything our customers want. Brodies has had a great name and reputation in this area for so many years and I am honoured to carry it into the future and grow the company” says Richards. Visit our booth at the home show for specials, free giveaways or just some advice.
Proudly Canadian, Locally Rooted and Independently Owned
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Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
Page 15
Visit the Strathroy-Caradoc Homeshow May 3rd, 2025
ning a bathroom renovation, remodeling a kitchen, or building a brand-new home, the team works closely with them to ensure every plumbing detail is carefully planned and executed. They assist with fixture selection, layout planning, and system instal - lation, ensuring everything functions flawlessly and looks great. Beyond scheduled projects, Plumbing MD provides 24-hour emergency plumbing services. Plumbing problems don’t follow a schedule, and the team is always ready to respond when issues arise, day or night. Their goal is to provide fast, effective solu - tions that restore peace of mind and prevent further damage. With a reputation built on honesty, hard work, and family val - ues, Plumbing MD continues to be a trusted name in the region. From minor repairs to full-scale construction projects, their com - mitment to customer satisfaction and service excellence is at the heart of everything they do. For a free quote or to learn more about their services, contact Mike Wierenga at mike@plumbingmd.ca or call 519-245-2121.
Plumbing MD: Reliable, Family-Owned Plumbing Services in Strathroy and Surrounding Areas Plumbing MD has proudly served Strathroy, Mount Brydges, and the surrounding communities for over six years. Mike and Dana Wierenga are the cofounders of this family-owned and operated business, which is built on a strong foundation of trust, quality, and community values. Mike, alongside his wife and their two sons, works hands-on in the business, bringing a personal and dedicat - ed approach to every job. Specializing in residential plumbing services, home renovations and new home construction, Plumbing MD is known for deliv - ering reliable, high-quality workmanship on every project. The team also offers light commercial plumbing services and new commercial builds, consistently applying the same attention to detail and care across all job types. The company proudly serves a wide service area that includes Ailsa Craig, Delaware, Glencoe, Ilderton, Komoka/Kilworth, London, Mount Brydges, Park Hill, Strathroy, and Watford. As local professionals, they understand the unique plumbing needs of the region and are committed to meeting them with profes - sionalism and expertise. Plumbing MD offers comprehensive plumbing services for every stage of a home or building’s lifecycle. Whether clients are plan -
Backflow CERTIFIED bathroom planning new residential plumbing bathroom plumbing Renovations
Page 16 Hometown Strathroy-Caradoc May 2025
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