Old East Villager
January-February 2025 Issue 9
Foreword from the Managing Editor Where do you live? Here is a question for you. Is London really a small town trying to be a big city or is it actually a big city still acting like a small town? Maybe this requires us to think about where the boundaries of the city have existed over time and the effects it has on how people identify as Londoners. We know Old East Village, which these days feels like an extension of downtown, didn’t become a part of London until 1885. Meanwhile, Masonville and Byron became a part of the city in 1961 and Lambeth and Arva, now conveniently located near two major shopping districts, only joined in 1993. So are we in fact becoming a big ‘city of neighbourhoods’ after all? We could likely extend this question to many Canadian cities. So what does this mean for one’s sense of ‘community’? How does it feel from the perspective of your neighbourhood? Is your neighbourhood a place where you live, but not necessarily where you spend your time? In a sprawling city this makes sense when time is so precious and getting from one place to the next consumes your day. So is community a word that is only reserved for small towns? Where tying people together through events and experiences is the only way they survive? Maybe in a big city, you don’t need this kind of effort because the neighbourhood has been a part of the city and the ‘community’ has already been in existence. One can just move in and assimilate. But what happens when ‘community’ does disappear? So let’s go back to the opening questions. Which are we here in London: big city or small town? What does that mean for your sense of community? Old East Village has most definitely held its own unique culture for a very long time. Quirky, artsy, historical and often leading by example for others to pick up on.
Prior to the pandemic, Old East was becoming THE example for neighbourhood development in Ontario. Now we are facing challenges, ones which all cities and all areas of a city are facing. Can we rally around this and continue to be the leaders? Maybe this is when it defines us not just as a neighbourhood, but as a community AND as a part of a bigger city.
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Page 2 Old East Villager January-February 2025
by Nicole Borland Hot Tips in OEV
Breakfast!
The New Year is upon us and we’re all getting back into the swing of things after a busy holiday season. Since you’re moving and shaking on the go, we thought it would be a good time to feature some of OEV’s best breakfast options that will help get your busy day started! Nova Era Bakery (460 Egerton Street) It’s easy to see just how much people love Nova Era based on their filled-to-the-brim parking lot on any given day – but don’t let that deter you. This Portuguese bakery offers a wide- ranging menu and some of the best (and well-priced!) breakfast sandwiches you will find. From your typical egg and cheese to the Portuguese Tosta Mista, you’ll be satisfied well past lunchtime. Plus, their espressos even once impressed my guests from Italy so… yeah, they really can’t be beaten on the daybreak front.
Edgar and Joe’s (740 Dundas Street) Edgar and Joe’s has quickly become an OEV favourite and with a wide variety of offerings like a traditional sit-down breakfast, and a variety of tasty breakfast wraps, sandwiches, and bowls, it’s sure to please any palate. Plus, they have an extensive coffee, tea, and cider menu along with bottled juices and smoothies. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it at Edgar and Joe’s! Dough EV (621 Dundas Street) While Dough EV has cemented itself in the delectable pastry hall of fame, they also have some of the best sandwiches in town! With fresh bread and greens, both veggie, vegan and meat options, they’ve made yet another significant mark on London’s culinary scene. This is very true of their Egg Sammy too – featuring egg, smoked gouda, tarragon mayo, and greens on sourdough – your morning just got a lot brighter. PS: Don’t forget about their second-to-none coffee and tea menu too!
Artisan Bakery (864 Dundas Street) Every single item at Artisan Bakery exudes quality, and of course, tastes delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick croissant or Morning Bun, or something a little more indulgent like the (amazing) Chorizo Egg n’ Cheese or the veggie Greens Egg n’ Cheese, Artisan has you covered. Grab yourself a coffee or a local kombucha and you’ll be on your way to the best day before you know it!
WIllie’s Cafe (630 Dundas Street) Willie’s has been an OEV staple for several years now offering soups, salads, wraps, and some of the best of the best in breakfast sandwiches this town has ever seen. In particular, the Kickstart Breakfast Sandwich (either bacon and cheddar or portobello and swiss) may possibly be the very best breakfast item you’ve ever had. If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying espresso mayo… get yourself to Willie’s, fast. Peruse the espresso and latte menu, grab a bite, and delight in the best decision you’ve made today!
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Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 3
Out in OEV
Tumbler by Myrna Pronchuk. Acrylic 52 x 56. See more on page 5.
Forest City Gallery Members Art Show.
Old East Villager Issue #9 Jan-Feb 2025 Your local community connector The 100% locally owned and produced OEV Villager is published five 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: Marty Kolls Marty@villagerpublications.com All articles by Marty Kolls unless noted otherwise. Advertising : Marty Kolls Marty@villagerpublications.com Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood 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. Do you have an Old East Village Neighbour of Note? Do you do cultural cooking? We’d love to hear from you. Contact Marty at Marty@villagerpublications.com Cover photo and article suggestions welcome! www.villagerpublications.com
CP Train Tracks at Sunset.
Inputs shows at the Root Cellar.
Piper and Carson at Taproot concert series.
Above two photos by Natasha Roberts. Kids at Dough EV.
Snow Day. Photo by Natasha Roberts.
Lapeluda at Taproot concert series.
Page 4 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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Meet Myrna Often when I go to interview people, I bring something to take notes, but as soon as I entered the house of artist Myrna Pronchuk, we got to chatting so quickly that there just wasn’t time. I was so taken by all of the work on her walls, not to mention the great feeling you often get from entering an artist’s home, which is to say it felt inspiring and full of creative energy. Experiencing all that was present and in the moment was more important to me than taking notes.
To advertise here, please contact Marty@villagerpublications.com Myrna’s sense of gratitude for her experiences in life is so apparent in speaking with her. She has had great pleasure in The vibrancy of Myrna’s artwork is a reflection of a lived experience and casts itself in many forms including drawing, painting, sculpture and sonic exploration. Her inspiration delves into the relationships we have with the environment, politics, power, one’s sense of purpose, and the inquiry of balance and responsibility. Myrna’s travels and exposure to various systems in society has informed and fuelled these important conversations and her art. So I’ll tell you what I had the good fortune to learn from our conversation. Myrna grew up in Manitoba but has called many places home in her lifetime. Her passion for visual arts came from a strong relationship she had with her aunt who was also an artist. It was during this time with her aunt that she learned many skills that would prove to be very useful in her future. Myrna’s first move to London back in the 1990s was somewhat accidental…literally. She had found herself in a pickle over a car accident and ended up staying with family in Lucan to resolve the issue. This led to a much longer stay. She continued to work on her art along with playing music in aggregations as a mandolin player. In the mid-90s she and her partner decided to make a move to Nashville which became her home for many years. She found herself doing artwork including portrait work for many well-known people. Although this is a great option for artists, there is often a strong calling to do other kinds of work. For various reasons, Myrna decided to further herself as an artist through apprenticing and schooling, acquiring her Bachelor of Fine Arts while in Nashville. It seems Mryna has also been able to make lemonade from many lemony times in her life. She was invited to Atlanta for the opportunity of a free ride at Georgia State University, to acquire a Masters of Fine Arts in Drawing and Painting by one of her all-time art heroes, Pamela Longobardi. Myrna was inspired by the work of artists engaged in environmental issues and her artwork represented her passion for this, as she began doing work with found items in sculpture.
doing artist residencies in Ireland, Greece, Spain, Germany, and many throughout the United States and likely will continue to share her knowledge for many years to come. She had a desire to plant roots in Southwestern Ontario again and found exactly what she wanted here in Old East Village back in 2017. Her outlook is kind and very contagious when you chat with her. She enjoys the neighbourhood and can often be seen walking with her very friendly dog Fionn. Myrna is a perfect example of an artistic treasure we’re so lucky to have living just around the corner. Visit myrnapronchuk.ca to see more.
Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 5
Welcome to the 519 School of Hip Hop To say that breaking is a style of dancing would be correct, but in truth breakdance and its culture is really much more. It’s a movement. The association of breakdance with hip-hop music is most commonly recognized and stems from a larger counter- culture development, a reflection of the youth at the time it emerged back in the late 70s and 80s. There was a real need for community and collaboration and people used dance, art and music to fuel this. As someone embarks into the world of hip-hop or breakdance they will soon discover a world where inclusivity through expression is at the forefront. 519 School of Hip-Hop owner Jim Francis Xavier, born Jihoon Han, came to Canada from Korea with his family back in 2001 when he was 14 years old. Like many kids at the time, the influence of boy bands in the 1990s was fierce, especially coming from the Daejeon, which was only two hours from Seoul. Jim’s new life in South Western Ontario and the diversity of living so close to the border had an impact on him along with his experience living in Windsor while going to University. From here his interest in the hip-hop community grew into something he would want to build on.
building on his dance skills working with the arts community in London. In 2012, he and his crew started working with the ‘Dynamic Dozen’ which would go into schools and perform flash mobs throughout the city. This caught people’s attention including creating a partnership with the London Public Library. All the while keeping the core values of the hip-hop culture present was key to Jim. “There is a gap between what hip-hop means for community rather than being portrayed as something consumable”. Jim’s crew started a campaign in 2017 ‘Stay Hungry, Stay Humble’ as they continued to build their hip-hop family. The crew provided lessons and programs for youth to find a place of belonging through art, music and dance. In 2019 they began looking for a new studio space which brought them to Old East Village. Though just south of the border on Little Simcoe St., 519 School of Hip-Hop opened its doors in 2020 with the pandemic allowing them to go deeper into their community work. Jim and his partners Greg and David continue to work
In 2008 he returned to London knowing he wanted to represent the 519 area code for hip-hop and dance. He and four other members formed a group called Ill at Will while he was studying marketing at Fanshawe College. School allowed him to build on his research for hip-hop programs for youth, while he continued
Page 6 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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with schools and develop their studio classes for all ages. The students who spend time with the School of Hip- Hop often discover more than some new moves. Along with building their sense of confidence, they learn the value of their relationships with art, music and dance and how it becomes their community.
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New neighbours welcome! Retro Redhead Salon is offering a special for the months of January and February. Mention the Old East Villager Magazine when you’re booking an appointment in January or February, and you will receive $10 off any service over $50. This salon, just around the corner, is not your average salon. Be sure to check out the great services they offer. Happy 2025 from Retro Redhead Salon! www.retroredheadsalon.com
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Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 7
As we welcome a new year, we embrace fresh beginnings and great potential for our Old East Village Business Improvement Area (BIA) district. Together, we have faced many challenges, and with resilience and determination, we have continued to strengthen our commitment to revitalization. Each business, community member, and partner plays a vital role in shaping a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving business district. While obstacles may remain, so does our dedication to innovate, collaborate, and grow. This new year is an invitation to build on our successes, explore new opportunities, and reaffirm our dedication to a brighter future for everyone who calls OEV home.
Page 8 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 9
Lilley’s Corners: A Window to Old East Village’s Soul by Charles, Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop Perched at the crossroads of Adelaide and Dundas, Lilley’s Corners stands as a silent sentinel, witnessing the ebb and flow of Old East Village (OEV) for over 150 years. Built in 1871 by Charles Lilley, this weathered brick facade became more than just a landmark – it became our family’s new home after we moved from Smith St. near Hamilton Road in 1974. From our corner apartment windows, we had a front-row seat to the vibrant unfolding of OEV life. The bustling streets below echoed with the footsteps of generations, each leaving their mark on this once-economic powerhouse of London. As a child, I’d press my nose against the glass, watching the world go by, feeling the pulse of a neighbourhood that was so much more than just a place to live – it was a thriving, self-contained ecosystem. The 1970s OEV was a kaleidoscope of family-run shops and larger department stores, rivalling downtown London in its commercial vibrancy. The Palace Theatre stood proudly, its marquee lights dancing in the eyes of excited children lining up for Saturday matinees. The Western Fair Farmers and Artisans Market, though not yet the Saturday institution it would become, was already weaving itself into the fabric of our community life. From our vantage point at Lilley’s Corners, we could observe the daily rhythm of OEV. By day, the atmosphere buzzed with the laughter of older children heading off to play at Boyle Park, while summer evenings were filled with the gentle chatter of neighbours, embodying the ‘front porch culture’ that defined our area. The St. Regis Tavern, a neighbourhood fixture since
Late night in East London, late 60s. Photo by David Barber.
1890, opened its doors each evening, welcoming weary workers from nearby factories and shops. Growing up in OEV left an indelible mark on my soul. The mix of historical charm and modern vitality created an environment that was both nurturing and exciting. From the old livery stable behind Lilley’s Corners to the bustling Dundas Street corridor, every nook and cranny held a story, every storefront a memory. Today, as I gaze out from the storefront window of my daughter’s business, The Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop, I’m struck by how much has changed, yet how much remains the same. OEV faces new challenges, having become a focal point for homelessness and other social issues. These challenges strain relationships within the community, testing the bonds that once made this neighbourhood so special. However, the spirit of resilience that defined OEV in the 1970s endures. The Old East Village BIA continues to work tirelessly alongside local businesses and residents to revitalize the area, attracting over $250 million in development since 2005. This dedication to growth and community-building echoes the efforts of Charles Lilley himself, who established the area’s first post office in 1872, creating an instant community hub. As OEV looks to the future, it grapples with the delicate balance of addressing the needs of vulnerable populations while addressing the concerns of long-time residents and businesses. Yet, the strong social fabric and history of resilience that once made Lilley’s Corners the heart of a thriving community may prove crucial in navigating these challenges.
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Page 10 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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In the end, the view from Lilley’s Corners remains as it’s always been – a window to the past, a reflection of the present, and a sentry of hope for the future of our evolving city. It’s a reminder that communities are not just built of bricks and mortar, but of the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the people who call them home. As I stand here, looking out at the street where I spent many formative years (like my Mother, Grandmother, and Great Grandmother before me), I’m filled with a sense of pride and nostalgia. OEV may have changed, but its spirit – the spirit that Charles Lilley helped forge over 150 years ago – remains unbroken. It’s a reflection of the enduring power of this community and a promise that no matter what challenges we
Charles, Uncle, Mother and brother c. 1974. Charles grew up at Adelaide and Dundas and recently returned to London after having lived elsewhere for most of his life.
Photos at left: East London Summer Bazaar c.1967. Photo by David Barber. Lilley’s Corner’s Intersection in the late 60s. Photo by Don Barber.
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Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 11
Dogs of OEV – the winter edition “The weather outside is frightful, but the dogs are so delightful” (with credit to Sammy Cahn)
We’ve had cold temperatures, rain and a LOT of snow over the past month and the dogs have been prepared. My research has indicated that it’s the small dogs who tend to bundle up while the larger ones are the stalwart, “I don’t need no stinkin’ coat” types (there are a few exceptions in my neighbourhood.
Fabrics range from a thick sweater knit to a water-resistant puffer style. Pink is a popular colour this year for girls (no surprise there). One dog in my neighbourhood even has tiny little red boots that look like small balloons stuck on his feet.
Left top to bottom: Abby, Maui, Teddy. Above: Finnigan and Wilma.
Love is a five letter word– Adopt! Bringing people and pets together
London Animal Care Centre 121 Pine Valley Blvd. www.accpets.ca • (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack 756 Windermere Rd. • (519) 432-4572
Page 12 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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Shopping OEV – Local ingredients – A World of Dishes by Nicole Borland Over the past year, we’ve taken a look at a wide variety of dishes that can be created in the comfort of your own home with some ingredients specifically from OEV. There have been some delicious travels indeed, from Italy, to Nepal, to Korea, and this time is no different! Here, we explore the many options available at Varni Supermarket, an Indian and Sri Lankan grocery store in the heart of the Village. I have enjoyed this particular soya ‘meat’ product many times from Varni and do believe it’s a wonderful addition to curries, stir fries, and more. Full disclosure, it tastes nothing like meat. It’s really more of a delightful textural variation in vegetables and sauces that anyone who has dabbled in TVP (textured vegetable protein) knows well. If you haven’t – when marinated well – think of it as a spongy, flavourful surprise in your dish and enjoy! So, let’s keep things simple and go with the recipe on the package of these tasty morsels available at Varni (with a few variations!). Ingredients: 1 package soya ‘meat’ 1 tsp dried turmeric (added instead of seasoning packet) 1 tsp dried cumin (added instead of seasoning packet) 2 tbsp neutral oil
Directions: Boil 4 cups of water and soak soya ‘meat’ for 5 minutes. Remove, squeeze out excess water, and place in a separate bowl. Add turmeric and cumin (a little salt/soya sauce/Maggie’s if desired, and 1 tbsp oil. Mix to combine and let marinate. Heat the remaining oil over medium heat. Add mustard and coriander seeds, curry leaves, and onions, sauté for 3 minutes and then add garlic and chillies. Cook for 2 more minutes. Add tomatoes and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, until soft. Add the water or coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Add the marinated soya ‘meat’, combine, and season to taste. Once slightly thickened, place steamed rice in a bowl, cover with soya ‘meat’ mixture, add soya sauce and/or Maggie’s if desired, and garnish with scallion, red onion, and a spritz of lime. Include toasted naan wedges for a little more heartiness! Enjoy and continue shopping at Varni Supermarket. All of these ingredients were purchased there and they offer so much more!
1 tbsp mustard seeds 1 tsp coriander seeds ¼ curry leaves, chopped 1 cup chopped red onions 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 green chillies, sliced
2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced 1 ½ cups water or coconut milk Salt to taste Soya sauce or Maggie’s seasoning to taste
1 scallion, sliced (for garnish) Red onion, sliced (for garnish) 1 lime wedge Steamed rice (optional) Toasted naan bread (optional)
Varni Supermarket is located at 667 Dundas Street. Learn more at www.varnisupermarket.com
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Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 13
Art by Francis Hare and Jude Blakemore
Page 14 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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What’s happening at 100 Kellogg Lane? Things are always exciting at 100 Kellogg Lane and over the next couple of months, there will be no shortage of activities. Art Comp – Canada’s Largest Art Competition with over $200,000 in prize money available. Artists of all ages and artistic backgrounds, both professional and amateur, from all around the world, are encouraged to submit their work. 100 Kellogg Lane wants to inspire the community and generate conversation through global art and challenge creators to think and explore outside of everyday life. Submissions open in early 2025. Super Bowl – The Club House will host its Super Bowl party hosted by Taz and Jim from FM96 on February 9th. Immerse yourself in all the fun of being at the biggest sporting event of the year. The event includes a prime rib tailgate buffet, a chance to win a trip to the winning team’s city, tons of games, prizes and giveaways and a great selection of $6 tallboys including Powerhouse, Bud, Bud Light and NUTRL. They’re teaming up with Ronald McDonald House, supporting families in the community with a portion of the ticket sales to help those who need it most. March Break – The ultimate March Break destination for families. Plan your staycation this March Break. Enjoy the eateries while the kids play at The Factory. Or play some games yourself at the clubhouse while friends are visiting from out of town. Beer Kitchen – Each month will feature a new theme with culturally inspired menu items and events all month long. Check out the calendar online at 100beerkitchen.com for the most up-to-date menu and event info. There is always something fun happening!
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Old East Villager January-February 2025 • Page 15
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