Hyde Park- Oakridge Villager April 2026 ISSUE 99
Spring is here, which means it’s time to give your ride some TLC. I’ve got 11 quick tips to get your car humming for the sunny season ahead: First up, swap out the old oil and filter for some fresh fluids. Your engine will thank you! While you’re at it, top off any low brake fluid, coolant, or power steering fluid. Keeping those reservoirs filled keeps everything running smoothly. Those windshield wipers have done a number this winter. Treat your car to a fresh pair so you can see clearly on those April showers. Make sure your battery is still kicking with enough charge. Cold weather is rough on batteries, so have it tested just to be safe. Got any cracks or chips in the windshield? Fix them now before they spread into bigger problems. Brakes are kinda important, so inspect your pads and rotors to catch any wear and tear. Lube up any squeaky chassis parts like door hinges while you’re at it. Don’t forget the suspension too! Check if your belts and hoses look cracked or worn. Replace them now to avoid headaches later. Swap out air and fuel filters so your engine breathes easy.
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Page 2 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
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Bill and Cecilia Davies receive Kayla Berger Stewardship Award The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) presented Bill and Cecilia Davies the Kayla Berger Stewardship Award in February, in recognition of their decades of tree planting through the UTRCA’s Tree Planting on Private Lands program. The Davies purchased trees for their rural property, located on Gainsborough Road, nearly every year since 1987, contributing to local reforestation efforts, creating habitat, and supporting watershed health. They like to plant the trees them- selves. “Spring wouldn’t be Spring,” said Cecilia, “unless we were planting our trees.” An avid gardener, Cecelia also plants a huge vegetable garden every year. “Over the years, Bill and Cecilia have planted more than 4,500 trees on their property,” said Brenda Gallagher, UTRCA’s For- estry Technician. “Through their hard work and dedication, they have left a legacy for future generations.” “Planting trees is like therapy. You plant them, and then you see them leaf out, and they grow. And then 30 or 40 years later, you have this magnificent tree on your property. I think it’s been good for us,” shared Bill Davies.
Left to right: Brenda Gallagher (UTRCA, nominator); Cecilia and Bill Davies (Kayla Berger Stewardship Award recipients); Dave and Wendy Berger (parents of Kayla Berger).
A tribute video regarding may be seen at www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2fuTq1NGrs.
The Kayla Berger Stewardship Award is presented to a watershed resident with passion for environmental conservation who has de- monstrated exceptional stewardship in protecting the natural environ- ment. The award commemorates Kayla Berger, a young UTRCA staff member who passed away suddenly in 2019.
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Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 3
The Village Vibe
Mission Services of London held their Coldest Night of the Year walk in late February, raising funds to support their work serving people experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. 390 Londoners teamed up to participate, raising more than $118,000.
Left, below: The ‘Spirit Movers’ of Wesley-Knox United Church were joined by walkers from Riverside United Church and surpassed their $1500 fundraising goal, raising $4,365. (Photo by Brian Dalton) Left: The West Park Walkers from WestPark Church participated, happily raising over $8,000.
Long & McQuade introduces orchestra instruments to children at a London Symphonia concert. Learn more on page 7. Hyde Park-Oakridge Villager Issue #99 April 2026 The 100% locally owned and produced Hyde Park-Oakridge 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: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Managing Editor / Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood Cathy@villagerpublications.com All articles by Cathy Wood unless otherwise noted. Advertising: Debbie Mindorff Debbie@VillagerPublications.com Cathy Wood Cathy@VillagerPublications.com Distribution 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.
Follow Neighbourhood Auto Plus on Pinterest for some exclusive Neighbourhood Auto Merch: pin.it/4pDlv5pEN Ask them about their winter tire storage service and their May 15 Wheels & Women event. neighbourhoodautoplus.com
Your March 2026 Villager Publications
Article suggestions welcome! We’d love to hear from you. Contact Cathy at Cathy@villagerpublications.com
The complete lineup of Villager Publications community magazines may be read online at www.villagerpublications.com. Contact your Villager rep with article suggestions, local photography that you’d like to share, or to inquire about promoting your business.
Cover photo and article suggestions welcome!
Page 4 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
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Dr. Hassan Mostafa, Dr. Laura Mirzai, Dr. Danescu and Dr. William Xie and their dedicated team offer exceptional dental care for all ages, in a modern, safe space. Canada Dental Care Plan and New Patients Welcome!
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Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 5
Raising the Bar on Health – one Drip at a Time “My inspiration to open The DRIPBaR came from my own health journey,” explains Adinda Kunder. “Six years ago, I faced significant health challenges, and IV vitamin therapy was the only approach that helped me recover. As a Registered Nurse with over 30 years of experience, including 25 years in ICU care, this experience shifted my perspective from reactive healthcare to a more proactive, supportive approach to wellness — helping people feel stronger, supported, and cared for as they navigate their health journeys.” The DRIPBaR, located at 2155 Richmond Street North at Sunningdale Road, officially opened in early February. Their Lifestyle Drips quickly became their most popular service, followed closely by their Health Support Drips. Drip choices include Restoration, Power Pack, Time Machine and others, each with varying vitamins, amino acids, antioxidants and minerals that are delivered directly into the bloodstream via a small catheter, while clients relax in a clean, comfortable setting. A consultation and blood work, completed by a Nurse Prac- titioner, ensures services are personalized based on each client’s individual goals and needs. There are programs designed to assist with acne, allergies, anxiety, fatigue and pain, as well as general well-being. “Anyone over the age of 18 can benefit from our services,” says Adinda, “including men and women looking for hydration, energy, recovery, athletic performance, immune support, or supportive care alongside conventional treatments. For overall health and energy, we typically recommend starting with one of our foundational IV drips. The Debut is designed to support general well-being and is a great introduction to IV therapy. For those looking for an added energy boost, our PowerPack drip is a popular option, as it supports energy levels while also providing broader wellness support.” The DRIPBaR also offers Red Light Therapy, Full-Leg Com- pression Therapy and Heated Back Massage. Drip clients receive complimentary credits that they can use towards these services. Drips generally take 30 to 60 minutes. Walk-ins are welcome, though appointments are recommended. Come in your own, treat a relative or friend, or plan a group event! For The DRIPBaR’s full menu, and information on memberships, promotions and more, visit london-on.thedripbar.com, or on Facebook at TheDRIPBaRLondonNorth or call (519) 286-4545. Spring Cleanup Tree Assessment Tree Trimming & Removal Hedge and Shrub Trimming & Removal Lawn Fertilizing J & A Arbory EST. 2014 Jeff Franklin @ 519-494-2009 Please call or text. Full Insurance & Liability coverage • Boom & Height certified
Left: “Halotherapy, combined with red light and oxygen therapy, supports respiratory comfort, relaxation, circulation, inflammation, and recovery,” says Adinda.
To advertise here, please contact Cathy@VillagerPublications.com HOUSE OF VICTOR HAIR SALON Ladies Cuts and Men’s Barbering Style Cuts Perms • Colour • Foils CHERRYHILL VILLAGE MALL 301 OXFORD ST., UNIT 40 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM – 8PM • SATURDAY 9AM – 6PM • SUNDAY 11AM – 5PM 519-471-4980 Stylist? Chair Rentals Available! 10% off Perms & Colour, Mon & Thurs after 5pm
Page 6 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
Long & McQuade – introducing orchestra instruments by Janet Mowat Almost 500 kids and their families attended London Symphonia’s concert An Enchanting Afternoon: Peter and the Wolf on March 8 at Metropolitan United Church. A favourite of people of all ages, Peter and the Wolf is known as one of the best introductions to the instruments of the orchestra. Each character in this woodland tale is represented by an instrument, for example, the bird by a flute, Peter by the strings and the wolf by horns. The concert also featured the world premiere of The Forested City by Algonquin- Anishinaabe storyteller and London-based composer Spy Dé- nommé-Welch. The work uses music imagery to describe special natural environments within London. After the concert, everyone was invited to get to know the instru- ments even better at an Instrument Petting Zoo, courtesy of Long & McQuade, a musical instrument and music lesson shop located at 725 Fanshawe Park Road West. Learn more about London Symphonia at londonsymphonia.ca and more about Long & McQuade at long-mcquade.com
Photos by Bryan Nelson
Long & McQuade’s Instrument Petting Zoo gave kids a wonderful opportunity to experience up close, the unique shapes, sounds and feel of instruments across the orchestra, especially when a London Symphonia musician was there to guide them on their journey of exploration.
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Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 7
London Artists Studio Tour This three-day self-guided tour offers the public an opportunity to meet local artists in their working environs and learn more about their creative processes. The tour is a free event. Hyde Park-Oakridge area tour stops include Brian Normandeau (1911 Beaverbrook), Arale Valley (2660 Tokala Trail), and Marlies Gueth (60 Bloomfield Drive), but for a complete list of participating artists, and more information, visit londonstudiotour.ca. ,
Page 8 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
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Page 8: Arale Vallely (left) and Brian Normandeau (right). Above, sculptures by Marlies Gueth.
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Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 9
Ward 7 Update by Corrine Rahman, Ward 7 City Councillor crahman@london.ca 226-577-3774 Hello Neighbours, 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. Staying connected with our com-munity is one of the most important parts of my role, and I’m looking forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming Ward 7 Community Meeting. Please join me on Wednesday, April 8th at Masonville Public School for an evening of conversation and updates on what’s happening in our neighbourhoods. The community meeting will take place from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (with doors opening at 6:30 pm). City staff and I will share information on current city initiatives, development applications, and key ward issues. Staff from traffic, parks, and other service areas will be on hand to answer questions and hear your feedback. These meetings are a great opportunity to stay informed and make sure your voice is heard. Please RSVP to crahman@london.ca if you plan to attend. I’m also excited to invite you to enjoy some family fun over the Easter long weekend with a free community swim at the Canadian Games Aquatic Centre. Join us on Saturday, April 4th, from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm, at 1045 Wonderland Road North for an afternoon of swimming with neighbours, friends, and family. fireside classic to a whole new level, crafting gourmet “adult s’mores” that blend sweet, savory, and a touch of sophistication. more than 80 classes per week for children and adults at our 1055 Sarnia Road location. Learn more at northlondondancecentre.ca
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 This year’s Clean and Green 2026, our annual Community CleanUp Day, is happening on Saturday, April 18th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. This is a great opportunity to get outside, connect with neighbours, and help keep our parks and streets clean and welcoming. Grab your friends, family, or neighbours and start your own cleanup or join one already planned—it all makes a difference. To organize a clean-up or sign up to volunteer, email me at crahman@london.ca. Confirmed clean-ups: Nor’west Optimist Park – Contact Keshia or Kevin Moreira 647-607-5375 to or just drop in. Friends of Medway Valley – Clean up the valley, Saturday, May 2nd, 9:30 am. To sign up, email: scholza@thamesriver.ca. I hope you’ll join us in making our community cleaner and greener this spring! Yours in Service, Corrine
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Page 12 Byron Villager Page 6 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • January-February 2025
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Brushstrokes United An Art Show and Sale in support of
APRIL 16–19
Thurs 5–8pm, Fri 10am–8pm, Sat 10am–6pm, Sun 11am–4pm 2544 Advanced Ave., London • LondonCommunityArtists.ca
Page 10 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
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excitement for seasonal community events. Thank you for keeping those conversations active and constructive—one of my favourite things about being Mayor is the opportunity to connect right here where I live with residents to find out what we’re doing right, where we can improve, and how I can help. With more people out walking dogs, visiting parks, and rediscovering their favourite local spots, this is also a great moment to talk about accessibility and pedestrian safety. Your feedback on crossings, sightlines, and cycling connections helps us make improvements where they matter most. These neighbourhoods thrive because residents stay engaged, and this spring is no exception. As gardens start waking up and the tree canopy slowly shifts back to green, I hope the season brings you renewed energy and a chance to reconnect with neighbours you may not have seen much through winter. We hope you and a gues Rachel or Linda at 519-4 rachel.mccauley@edwar linda.skally@edwardjon to Coffee Club. Contact me to To help jump-start your day, join of coffee and conversation at our Club. The Coffee Club is an informal ga discuss current events, the econo investing, in a relaxed, informal se is a great way to get to know one Coffee Club To help jump-start your day, join us for a c of coffee and conversation at our next Cof Club. Contact me today to r The Coffee Club is an informal gathering to discuss current events, the economy and investing, in a relaxed, informal setting, an is a great way to get to know one another. We hope you and a guest will join us. Rachel or Linda at 519-474-9356 or e rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.com linda.skally@edwardjones.com by the to Coffee Club. Contact me today to registe We hope you and a guest will join us. Please ca Rachel or Linda at 519-474-9356 or email rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.com or linda.skally@edwardjones.com by the Tuesday to Coffee Club. Join us
Message from the Mayor by Mayor Josh Morgan mayor@london.ca 519-661-4920
To all my neighbours here in Hyde Park and Oakridge: April is that funny mix of umbrellas and sunglasses, sometimes in the same hour. But it’s also the time our neighbourhood really comes alive. I’ve heard from many of you about spring prep around ponds, traffic flow near busy plazas, and
Pondfest 2026 – Mark your Calendars PondFest is a one-day community celebration in Hyde Park, known for its lively atmosphere and engaging activities that bring people together in the heart of the Village Green. This beloved summer tradition offers something for everyone, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a music lover, or simply seeking a fun day out with family and friends.
Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 11 rachel.mccauley@ www.edwardjone EXP 31 DEC 2023 © 2020 EDWA Join us rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.co www.edwardjones.ca/rachel-mcc EXP 31 DEC 2023 © 2020 EDWARD D. JONES & CO Coffee Club To help jump-start your day, join us for a cup of coffee and conversation at our next Coffee Club. The Coffee Club is an informal gathering to discuss current events, the economy and investing, in a relaxed, informal setting, and is a great way to get to know one another. Contact me today to register! We hope you and a guest will join us. Please call Rachel or Linda at 519-474-9356 or email rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.com or linda.skally@edwardjones.com by the Tuesday prior to Coffee Club. Please call 519-474-9356 or email rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.com by the Tuesday prior to Coffee Club. November 26th, 2022 9:30am - 11:00am December 10th, 2022 9:30am - 11:00am Edward Jones London, ON N6H 5 519-474-9356 Event Details Coffee Club Join us for coffee, snacks and conversation at our next Coffee Club! October 29th, 2022 9:30am - 11:00am November 26th, 2022 9:30am - 11:00am April 25, 9:30–11:00am at Edward Jones, 1634 Hyde Park Rd., Unit 7 December 10th, 2022 9:30am - 11:00am Edward Jones > edw Rachel B McCau Financial Advisor 1634 Hyde Park Rd. Rachel B McCauley Financial Advisor 1634 Hyde Park Rd. London, ON N6H 5L7 519-474-9356 London, ON N6H 5L7 519-474-9356 - Unit 7 - Unit 7 Rachel B McCauley Financial Advisor 1634 Hyde Park Rd. rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.ca/rachel-mccauley EXP 31 DEC 2023 © 2020 EDWARD D. JONES & CO., L.P. ALL RIG > edwardjones.ca EdwardJones ® EdwardJones ® 1637 Hyde Park Rd. Unit 7 (SW corner of plaza near con London, ON N6H SL7 Coffee & Snacks are on us. - Unit 7 Event Details October 29th, 2022 9:30am - 11:00am 1637 Hyde Park Rd. Unit 7 (SW corner of plaza near construction) London, ON N6H SL7
At the center of PondFest is the unveiling of a unique community piano, a collaborative art project painted by students from Oakridge Secondary School. The piano remains in the park all summer.
EdwardJones ®
Join us
Coffee Club To help jump-start your day, join us for a cup of coffee and conversation at our next Coffee Club. The Coffee Club is an informal gathering to discuss current events, the economy and investing, in a relaxed, informal setting, and is a great way to get to know one another.
To advertise here, please contact Debbie@VillagerPublications.com PondFest features an incredible lineup of local bands, performances by street entertainers, a variety of vendors, delicious offerings from food trucks, and much more. PondFest 2026 occurs June 13, 1 pm to 11 pm.
Contact me today to register!
We hope you and a guest will join us. Please call Rachel or Linda at 519-474-9356 or email rachel.mccauley@edwardjones.com or linda.skally@edwardjones.com by the Tuesday prior to Coffee Club.
Rachel B McCauley Financial Advisor 1634 Hyde Park Rd.
Coffee & Snacks are on us.
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- Unit 7
Historic Hyde Park – The Elson Homestead Joseph Elson was born in 1804 in Markham Township, the son of a Hessian soldier who had come to Canada after the American Revolution. His parents died when he was a small boy and he was raised by various relatives. After working at farming, milling, whiskey-making, and pottery, Elson was granted 200 acres of land in the 1820s in London Township by Colonel Thomas Talbot. He also bought 100 acres from the Canada Company on the north-east corner of Oxford Street and Hyde Park Sideroad in 1834. Elson is thought to have single-handedly cleared 81 acres of this land and to have built a log house and a pottery. In the early years there was no church in the settlement. Neighbours would congregate here to sing hymns, accompanied by Mrs. Elson on the piano, and to listen to itinerant preachers. In 1855, Elson built the present brick house with brick and mortar made on site, in which his descendants lived for generations. Peter Elson (son of Joseph and his wife, Samantha Hart) inherited the farm in 1860 and added another 180 acres. He served as a school trustee, Reeve of London Township, Warden of the County of Middlesex, and Member of Parliament for East Middlesex from 1904 to 1913. His son, Paul, assumed ownership of the farm in 1903, built a new barn, and enlarged the house. Paul’s brother, Reverend Albert J. Elson, B.A., B.D., spent 17 years as a missionary in China, and 23 years as a Presbyterian minister in Middlesex County.
North Bay Nugget 23 September 1961, Saturday • Page 9 Farmer Killed By Bull; Went To Aid of Hand LONDON (CP): Howard Elson, 45, former London Township reeve and county warden, was fatally gored by a bull at his suburban farm today when he went to the aid of a hired hand who was being tossed about by the animal. Mr. Elson tried to lure the bull away from John Smits, who was knocked to the ground by the Holstein bull when he took a herd of cows into an enclosure for milking. Elson’s son, Robert, 18, was also gored and trampled by the bull, which was shot by city police moments later. Police credited Mrs. Elson with saving her son’s life. The youth had gone to the aid of his father and was knocked down by the bull. Grabbing a pitchfork, Mrs. Elson stabbed the bull with it and attracted his attention long enough for her son to get out of the enclosure. Mr. Smits, in St. Joseph’s Hospital, is believed to have a broken back. He was tossed into the air and over a five-foot fence. Robert Elson suffered only minor bruises. Mr. Elson entered municipal politics in 1951 as a councillor in London Township and was elected deputy-reeve in 1952 and 1953. He was acclaimed reeve in 1954, 1955 and in 1956 when was also elected warden of Middlesex. He retired from municipal office at the end of 1956 because of pressure of business but conti- nued to serve on various boards and committees.
Howard B. Elson, son of Paul, ac- quired the farm in 1936 and added two more farms to the property. He also served as a township councillor, Reeve of London Town- ship, Warden of Middlesex County, Chairman of the London Town- ship Planning Board, member of the London Township Police Com- mission, and of the East Middle- sex High School Board. Howard is
buried in the St. George’s Cemetery on Gainsborough Road. Robert Elson, son of Howard, represented the fifth generation to live on this property. Info from: www.lpl.ca/books-digital/explore/london-room/local-history/local-historic- sites/elson-homestead
Below: the Elson Homestead in 1915.
Page 12 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
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1057 Oxford Street West Then and Now
With a slogan of Rooted in History – Built on Trust , the 1057 Group Inc., a boutique insurance broker, now operates out of the Elson Homestead. Originally built using materials crafted on-site, this home served generations of families and community leaders. What began as farmland cleared by hand has “evolved into a place of resilience, growth, and legacy,” says 1057 Group owner Kim Carmichael. The home has been beautifully remodelled and landscaped. “Today, that same foundation carries forward through our work,” she continues. “At the 1057 Group, we believe insurance is more than policies and paperwork — it’s about protecting what people have built, just as this property has stood the test of time. Our approach is grounded, personal, and built on long-term relationships. We are proud to be part of Hyde Park’s past — and even more committed to protecting its future.” Visit insboutique.com to learn more.
Looking from Guildwood Blvd., towards Oakridge High School, 1057 Oxford Street West is 6th house east of Guildwood Gate.
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Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 13
Jazz By The Bog by Susan Smythe Well, January 2026 was anything but ‘Blah’, with record low temperatures and record snowfall amounts. As our date for the January Jazz By The Bog concert drew near, we wondered if we might have to provide snowshoes and dogsleds to get our audience to the show. However, although it was a crisp night, the parking lot had been plowed, and our faithful patrons braved the cold and showed that nothing would keep them from enjoying a warm, inviting evening of great Jazz music with perhaps a glass of wine to feel cozy. All we were missing was a crackling fireplace. On January 30 at 8:00 pm, we welcomed Rachelle Courtney, a jazz vocalist whose style evokes images of Doris Day and Ella Fitzgerald, and Nevin Campbell, a skilled jazz pianist inspired by legends like Oscar Peterson and Dave Brubeck. Joining them were Nevin’s brother, Don Campbell, on guitar, Larry Ernwein on bass, and Ian MacKay on drums.
next with an instrumental from Miles Davis called All Blues , again featuring all players on solo sections. Rachelle closed out this set with really fine renditions of What a Wonderful World that also included an interesting bass solo by Larry Ernwein, and Gershwin’s But Not For Me in the style of Chet Baker’s up-tempo recording. Again, Rachelle easily created a tuneful scat* section in the middle of the song. (*Definition of vocal scat singing: A vocal jazz style that consists of improvised nonsense syllables sung to an improvised melody, usually over an in- strumental accompaniment.) We had a very happy crowd exiting our venue with complements to the artists – Rachelle – very easy to listen to. Don’s guitar playing was exquisite. Larry creates such tuneful bass lines. Ian keeps a steady and sensitive beat, creating solo drumming that makes sense and Nevin is a very intuitive player. We Agree!!! Don’t miss our next concert – Take 3 & Company – Remembering Burt Bacharach on Friday, April 24, 2026 8:00 pm. Tickets available at www.staidans.ca/pages/jazz-by-the-bog. TAKE 3 & COMPANY St Aidan’s Church Presents Jazz by the Bog TAKE 3 & COMPANY St Aidan’s Church Presents Jazz by the Bog Remembering Burt Bacharach TAKE 3 & COMPANY St Aidan’s Church Presents Jazz by the Bog Remembering Burt Bacharach Remembering Burt Bacharach
This concert was a great mix of Pop songs from the ‘20s to the ‘60s but with a Jazz feel. The group opened with an Oscar Peterson swing tune (with a blues edge) called Backyard Blues, which introduced their band with great solo turns from each musician. Rachelle’s smooth delivery of You Make Me Feel So Young was followed up by Red Top , an older tune which required a little audience participation! In Young At Heart , there is a lyric reference to the age ‘105’ and when Rachelle coyly asked if any of our audience members met that criteria, we found a close second in one of our faithful regular attenders – she is a very vibrant 98 years old and received a hearty round of applause! Next was a Latin beat in Antonio Carlos Jobim’s No More Blues , then an instrumental arrangement of an old folksong made famous in the sixties by the British rock group, The Animals. House of the Rising Sun was a fine display of the talented instrumentalists. Two more tunes sung by Rachelle rounded out the first set. To start the second set, the popular Dave Brubeck standard, Take 5, always gets the toes tapping in that odd but catchy 5/4 rhythm. Rachelle was up with the next four numbers, starting with Come Fly With Me in an easy swing, It Could Happen to You , incorporating a great *scat* section, From the Start by an Icelandic composer who used a Latin beat, and then an up- tempo swing rendition of The More I See You . The band was
APRIL 24, 2026 APRIL 24, 2026 Tickets ($30) Long & McQuade (Fanshawe Park Rd W) Tuckey Home Hardware (Wortley Village) Church Office (519-471-1430) At the Door Proceeds to benefit the work of St. Aidan’s Church Tickets ($30) Long & McQuade (Fanshawe Park Rd W) Tuckey Home Hardware (Wortley Village) Church Office (519-471-1430) At the Door Proceeds to benefit the work of St. Aidan’s Church Tickets ($30) Long & McQuade (Fanshawe Park Rd W) Tuckey Home Hardware (Wortley Village) Church Office (519-471-1430) At the Door Proceeds to benefit the work of St. Aidan’s Church
St Aidan’s Church Narthex Lounge open at 7:00pm (cash bar) Narthex Lounge open at 7:00pm (cash bar) 8PM 8PM St Aidan’s Church St Aidan’s Church Narthex Lounge open at 7:00pm (cash bar)
Page 14 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026
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What’s Happening in Hyde Park St. Aidan’s Anglican Church Presents JAZZ BY THE BOG Take 3 & Company Remembering Burt Bacharach Friday, April 24, 2026, 8:00 pm Visit www.staidans.net for ticket info and updates.
Riverside Public School Spring Fling Vendor Market
Saturday, May 2, 9 am –1 pm Local Vendors • Food Trucks Silent Auction
Middlesex Shopping Extravaganza Saturday April 11, 10 am – 2 pm Oakridge Presbyterian Church, 970 Oxford St. W 50+ Vendors SAVE THE DATE – PONDFEST June 13, 2026 The Josh Presley Trio, April 18, Cherryhill Village Mall, 2 – 4:30 pm and the VGB Trio, April 25, 2 – 4:30 pm. Cherryhill Village Mall. Visit londonjazzfestival.ca to learn more. London Jazz Festival April 1 – 30 34 events, 36 groups, 11 venues including
For more information on the Oakridge Optimists, visit www.oakridgeoptimists.ca. Help the Oakridge Optimists help the youth in their community by purchasing a Canadian Flag lawn sign. Order online atoakridgeoptimists.ca or email presidentelect@oakridgeoptimists.ca. 27th Annual Antler River Cleanup April 18, 2026, 9 am Medway Creek At Fanshawe Park Road Meet in the parking lot of 410 Ambleside Drive. Ilderton Farmers Market Saturdays, June 6 to October 10, 9 am – 12:30 pm Follow Neighbourhood Auto Plus on Facebook for updates. Hyde Park Business Improvement Association SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT April 1 – 30 Visit hydeparkbia.ca for more information. See the outside back cover of this magazine for your pasport!
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Ilderton Ladies Social Girls Night In Dance Saturday, April 25, 8pm Ilderton Community Centre Local women are invited to the Ilderton Ladies Social Night In Dance, themed Girls Night In.
Think pink, pajamas, comfy-cute outfits, and a relaxed, high- energy night out with friends, live music, and a full dance floor Tickets $35 per person via the QR code. $2 from every ticket supports Anova, helping women and families in our region. Email IldertonLadiesSocial@gmail.com for more information. To advertise here, please contact Debbie@VillagerPublications.com
Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • April 2026 • Page 15
To advertise here, please contact Debbie@VillagerPublications.com
Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • March 2026 • Page 15
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