Byron
JAN/FEB 2025 ISSUE 97
Villager
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Warm Hearts on the Coldest Night of the Year charities and raised over $1.7 million. “Taking a passion that I love and creating an event that benefits so many people has been a blessing,” says Steve. The event attracted thousands of people and cars from across North America. When not at home on his estate on the outskirts of Byron, Steve tours invitational car events and shows across North America, showcasing his classic cars. TD Wortley Branch Manager Frances Distefano, and Manager Customer Experience Andressa Barros braved the cold Feb- ruary 24 and participated in Mission Service of London’s Coldest Night of the Year walk in support of local charities serving people experiencing hurt, hunger, and homelessness. “As leaders of the TD Wortley Branch, it is a mission of ours to lead by example when it involves supporting our community. We have a lot to be thankful for, therefore, being visible and taking action to support fundraising initiatives that help those less fortunate is priority more than ever,” said Andressa.
Grand Theatre announces 2024 High School Project 1949 Cadillac Woody MGM Studios Limo Nothing was too good for movie stars in Hollywood’s golden age of movies. Favourite silver screen performers of the time included Clark Gable, Katherine Hepburn, Judy Garland, and Elizabeth Taylor. In its previous life, one of Steve Plunkett’s legendary Fleetwoods chauffeured those legends and many others to and from movie sets. “I love cars with a story,” Steve says. “I have many with an interesting history often related to famous people.” The 1949 Cadillac Woody MGM Studios Limo was among the last series of coach-built cars by Fleetwood. Between 1947-’49, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) ordered six of the Series 75 cars that Cadillac called “Imperial sedans.” The Grand Theatre’s renowned youth mentorship program, the High School Project (HSP) will celebrate its 26th anniversary with the Tony and Olivier award-winning Roald Dahl’s MATILDA the Musical (book by Dennis Kelly and original songs by Tim Minchin). It will feature students on-stage and behind-the-scenes to take on roles such as stage management, props, wardrobe, scenic art, orchestra, sound, and entertainment marketing. The High School Project is open to any high school student from London and area who will be enrolled in high school in the fall of 2023, or participating in homeschooling. Ages generally range from 14 to 18. Visit www.grandtheatre.com/participate-high-school-project to learn more.www.grandtheatre.com/high-school-project This particular vehicle entered the marketplace when MGM purchased it from Hillcrest Cadillac in Beverly Hills. It’s one of two that were customized and given wood-framed bodies by legendary Austrian Maurice Schwartz of Los Angeles for MGM. Mr. Schwartz altered the car’s contours, embedded real wood on the outside and turned the vehicle into a showpiece. The luxurious interior featured soft Bedford cord upholstery. The seven-passenger limo was long and roomy, with a 136-inch (11.3 foot) wheelbase. South Collegiate’s Emma Bishop, 2023 High School Project One day in the 1950s, the driver missed a turn and rolled the car on a winding road heading into Big Bear Lake, California. It was totalled. It sat at a wrecker’s yard in San Bernadino for many years and seemed destined for the crusher. Its doors had been removed and it was being used as a guard dog kennel. Beginning in the mid-1970s, someone saw past the car’s sad state and purchased it. It changed hands a few times over the following decade and a half. The first few owners didn’t work on it before passing it on. Five Sacramento men bought it in the 1980s. They added Mahogany panels, metal framing from a donor car, and painted it red instead of its original black. However, four of the partners lost interest and stopped funding the project leaving the fifth with no option but to sell. A collector purchased the vehicle in the late 1980s and finished restoring the body, completed an overhaul of the V-8 engine and rebuilt the transmission. It’s believed to be the only survivor of MGM’s original six. Botox, Lip Filler, Dermal Filler, Laser Hair Removal, facials, hydrofacial, Indian head massage, microblading, permanent makeup, PRP, microneedling, Dermaplaning & more. For 15 years, Steve Plunkett turned his love of cars into the Fleetwood Country Cruize-In, an event that supported local 350 Ridout S • (519) 601-3900 www.boldbeauty.ca Face | Skin | Body Treatments Feel Great, Look Amazing Leading Skin Rejuvenation Clinic Enhance your natural beauty
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Jan/Feb 2025 Page 3
Play Optimist TV Bingo For over 50 years Optimist TV Bingo has provided entertainment and a valuable community service. Funds raised by the show stay in London and benefit our youth. Some of the groups and programs supported include: The Boys and Girls Club of London, Easter Seals, Childcan, London Library “A Book for Every Child”, Grade by Grade Chess Championship, Junior Achievement, Salvation Army, Special Olympics and many, many more. Watch, play and win every Monday night at 8:00 pm with Optimist TV Bingo on Rogers TV! Cards are available at multiple London locations (full list at www.tvbingo.ca) and are good for all three games. Weekly jackpot totals $3,000! Byron Ticket Location: Byron Mini Mart (Boler & Byron Base Line) Go to www.byronoptimist.ca/fundraisers and click on the streaming link to watch from your computer. The Optimist Club of Byron is celebrating 75 years of proudly supporting local youth in our community. Stay tuned for more information about celebrating this incredible milestone!
SERVING OUR
Sunrise at Springbank Park by Sandi McCabe sandi@mccabepro.com
Y O U T H
Byron Villager Issue #97 Jan/Feb 2025 Your local community connector. The 100% locally owned and produced Byron Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com Publisher & Editor: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 Barb@villagerpublications.com 519-282-7262 Content Managers: Lynne WIlliams, Barb Botten Graphic Artist: Jon Botten Delivery Ambassador: Nippy Watson Copyright @ 2015 Villager Publications. All rights reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express written permission of the Publisher. Information presented has been compiled from sources believed to be accurate at the time of printing however the Publisher assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions. We’d love to hear from you. Contact Barb at Barb@villagerpublications.com
EST. 1979
Byron Optimist’s park clean up day at Jorgenson park
Byron Optimist’s Certificate of Collective Philanthropy for donating 78 meals to the Food Bank
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DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES BYRON AND AREA DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES
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To advertise here please contact Barb@villagerpublications.com RIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. SURANCE SHOPPER WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Travelers Cansure Group One Travelers Cansure Group One Wishing you the very best this holiday season! What kind of policy should I have for high water in the spring What kind of policy should I have for high water in the spring What is the difference between “Flood Insurance” & “Overland Water Coverage” RRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near a lake, river, or pond to insure your property RIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. INSURANCE SHOPPER YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES URANCE SHOPPER WARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near a lake, river, or pond to insure your property against storm surges, tidal waves, and similar major events. against storm surges, tidal waves, and similar major events. Economical/Definity Forward Insurance OUR HOME A SPRING TUNE-UP! season to check out your home’s exterior, from roof shingles to azing to dryer vents. Use the handy “Home Maintenance Checklist” bsite to make sure your home is safe and sound. 2681 Gideon Drive, Delaware, Ontario Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Overland Water Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. 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BRYDGES YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE Economical/Definity Forward Insurance Yarmouth Mutual Victor Insurance SPRING FLOODS Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. Yarmouth Mutual Victor Insurance SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring • Cover windows with plastic • Check your insulation in your attic and basement • Replace worn weather stripping OUTSIDE TAPS ENERGY EFFICIENT SPRING FLOODS HAPPEN YEAR ROUND NOW Different insurers have different ways of covering high water problems. Coverages and costs will vary with the specific location of your house, surrounding terrain, and nearby water features. 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Enhanced Water Damage Insurance combines coverages for multiple types of water problems, such as ground water, overland water, exterior water, and sewer lines. UPDATING YOUR HOME? UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE! UPDATING YOUR HOME? UPDATE YOUR INSURANCE! THE INSURANCE ADVISORS IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD WORKING SMOKE ALARMS SAVES LIVES! Terry Young Registered Insurance Broker Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Fax: 519-652-2710 Cambrian Special Risks Signature Risk Partners South Western Group Oegema Nicholson & Assoc. Special Risk Insurance Managers Sports & Fitness Insurance Canada OURHOOD SOURCE FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT INSURANCE nsurance specialist, we know the lay of the land in your neighbourhood. o assess conditions affecting your home and compare your options from n insurers. What is the difference between “Flood Insurance” & “Overland Water Coverage” RRIED ABOUT SPRING FLOODING? ive, Delaware, Ontario N0L 1E0 • Tel: 519-652-3201 • Fax: 519-652-2710 -363-4304 • Email: crawfordanddanyluk@cmmgbrokers.com rdanddanylukinsurance.com • 519-652-3201 settling a claim for ge caused by a peril u are insured. Toll Free: 1-800-363-4304 Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Andrea Coutu Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker Jessica Cornelis Registered Insurance Broker What kind of policy should I have for high water in the Spring Is Your Home Ready For Winter? www.crawfordanddanylukinsurance.com 519-652-3201 BROUGHT TO YOU BY D DELAWARE/KOMOKA/KILWORTH/MT. BRYDGES Cindy Haywood Registered Insurance Broker Test yours every month. 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3 WAYS 3 WAYS
Ken retired from H.J. Jones Printing and Lithographing in 2004 after 42 years. However, through Ski-View and the magazine, he maintained strong business and personal ties to the community. His widow, Sandy says, “Ken had a lot of loyal readers and advertisers, many of whom became close friends.” Meanwhile, Ken’s interest in sports continued and as his children grew, they began to play as well. He coached hockey, and many of his offspring were involved with Byron baseball and Byron soccer. He was also a volunteer coach of Junior Horseshoe in Aylmer for many years. “He never enjoyed sitting still,” says Sandy. “If it needed doing, Ken would do it.” Ken was one of the founding organizers of the Byron Optimist Sports Complex and he along with several others were on the building committee back in 1977. It was this group’s vision to create a space where children and adults alike could engage in sports and community activities. “Ken was a dedicated optimist with a capital O,” says Byron Optimists President Chris Stumph. “He was always willing to help out whenever there was a need.”
Ken Payne Legacy “Your legacy is every life you have touched.”— Maya Angelou When he passed away in Nov- ember of 2024, lifelong Byron resident Ken Payne left a legacy that touched thousands of lives. Through his love of sports and his dedication to connecting the community, in business and in family life, Ken Payne will be forever remembered in Byron. Ken was first and foremost about
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t r e t t r d s 5
family. He met his future wife Sandy when they worked together to register players for Byron Baseball in 1984. Ken lived on Griffith and Sandy was nearby on Fairlane. Their paths crossed again in the mid 1990s when Sandy needed a designer for a project to support the Sunshine Foundation. Ken happily volunteered. They married in 1998 and made their home on Commissioners Rd. in Byron. Over nearly three decades of marriage, Ken and Sandy enjoyed between them five kids and 17 grandchildren. The grandkids called him Grandpa Graycee. His oldest grandchild, Brittany, gave him the nickname after his Miniature Schnauzer of the same name. Grandpa Graycee was an always-willing taste- tester for any baking by the family. Ken worked as a plate maker at H.J. Jones Printing and Lithographing and simultaneously started his own business. He created Ski-View Promotions and realized his vision of connecting the community with a magazine. The Byron Connection published its first issue in October 1982. Ski-View Promotions was mostly a one-man company. Ken did everything from sales to design and enlisted his children and other neighbourhood kids to deliver the free magazine to homes in Byron. The magazine’s popularity required a name change and a bigger delivery area. He retitled it The Forest City Connection and took it to the east as far as Wharncliffe Rd. and north up to Hwy 22. The magazine folded in August of 2018. “Thirty-five years, 11 months, and 431 consecutive issues,” wrote Ken in that last edition. Ski-View Productions carried on, though, with design and print services. 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 C atty S haCk THE Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack! Bringing people and pets together www.accpets.ca
Over the years, the complex has grown along with the community. It became evident that improvements were needed to keep the complex safe and working well for youth sports. Ken was critical in the negotiations with L82 Construction Inc. to provide the park with irrigation, drainage and other infrastructure work in exchange for naming rights and advertising. “Ken was always looking to improve things and he was always on the go,” says Sandy.
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Longtime friend and fellow Optimist Gerry says Ken encouraged him to join the service club and they worked on many projects together. “I have known Ken Payne for 20 years. He and I sat on several organizations for business and children’s charities. He helped me with many advertising programs at the Complex such as the banner program, events, fundraisers and park sponsorship. He was the backbone of this complex and of the children of this community. It will be hard to fill his shoes.” Ken was skilled in woodworking and he often created custom- made crafts for his friends and family. “You never knew what he was doing down in his workshop,” recalls Sandy. “But it was always something being created to give away and make someone smile.” Ken’s passion for volunteerism and helping others have inspired his daughter Cindy and husband Justin to join the Byron Optimist Club and continue his legacy of giving. It was fitting that, in lieu of flowers, family asked that anyone wishing to honour Ken could donate to the Complex. And his colleagues and friends in the Optimists have plans to honour him, too. “Ken’s support of the Complex never wavered over the decades,” says Sandy M, President and CFO of Byron Optimist Sports Complex. “This spring the Complex will be developing a memorial garden in his name.”
Ken’s ‘London’ Grandkids
Blue Jays cut out with grandsons, Emerson and Zachary
Your Perfect Match awaits you at The London Animal Care Centre and The Catty Shack!
“All they want for Christmas is You”
Bringing people and pets together www.accpets.ca
C atty S haCk THE
Ken’s ‘Toronto’ Gang 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
Ken’s Santa Bingo London Animal Care Centre • 121 Pine Valley Blvd, London www.accpets.ca • (519)685-1330
December
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 Dreaming of a Forever Home Adopt Today!
London Animal Care Centre 121 Pine Valley Blvd. www.accpets.ca • (519) 685-1330 The Catty Shack 756 Windermere Rd. • (519) 432-4572
February
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Jan/Feb 2025 Page 7
Byron Benefits from Neighbourhood Decision Making Program Two projects submitted by Byron community members were among the 20 winning ideas selected by London residents for the 2024 Neighbourhood Decision Making (NDM) program. NDM is the City of London’s annual funding program that allocates $250,000 to community-driven projects designed to enhance neighbourhoods in five geographical areas within the city. Each area receives $50,000 for projects that cover a wide range of initiatives, such as improving outdoor spaces and supporting neighbourhood events. “Neighbourhood Decision Making is about connecting with Londoners who care deeply about their neighbourhoods and about our community as a whole,” says Jennifer Martino, Manager, Neighbourhood Development and Support. “Everyone has a unique story about why they submitted or supported an idea.” As part of the Southwest region, the Byron winners for 2024 include these two projects: Neighbourhood Art Show in Byron (awarded $1,800)
Bike parking at Boler Road and Byron Baseline Road (awarded $4,400) This project will install bike parking on the green space outside of the plaza at Byron Baseline Road and Boler Road. The bike rack will give a safe and secure spot for children and adults to lock up their bikes, encouraging more residents to bike to the plaza. “These winning projects in Byron are a great example of how very different ideas can bring people together for a positive impact in local neighbourhoods,” Jennifer adds. For more information about the other winners and what goes into submitting a project idea, visit london.ca/living-london/ community-services/neighbourhood-programs-funding/ neighbourhood-decision-making or getinvolved.london.ca. With files from the Neighbourhood Making Program at getinvolved.london. ca/ndm and the 2024 NeighbourhoodGood London December newsletter.
This neighbourhood Art Show will be an intergenerational event showcasing professional and amateur artists of all ages, providing a space for people to meet, appreciate art, and celebrate each other’s talents. Live music from local performers will enhance the experience. This event will be a chance to connect, build relationships, and strengthen our community through shared creativity. “I believe art heals the world, and we don’t have to be artists with great names to add beauty to the world,” says Toinette Parisio, the Byron resident who submitted the
proposal. “Our neighbourhood is excited to receive these funds so we can invite all artists, with and without training, to have their art seen and appreciated.”
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Proctor Makes His Stand
It is midmorning, October 5th, 1813. General Proctor calls a halt to his remaining British army. He can go no further. The scouts of General Harrison’s American army have caught up to him. He will make his stand a mile or so downstream from the village of Moraviantown (14431 Longwoods Road, between present-day Parks Blueberries Farm and Thamesville). The Thames River is on Proctor’s left and a heavy marsh is on his right in a light wood of beech, maple and oak. He expects the Americans to advance along the road that cuts through the left of his position. The high bank of the Thames on his left means that the Americans cannot turn his left flank. The marsh protects his right flank. He will position his only gun, a six-pounder (named after a six-pound cannonball), to cover the road. The 41st Regiment will cover the road. The militia draws the space between the 41st and the swamp and the natives in the woods beyond the swamp. His army is in tatters. Their ammunition consists of what they carry; the rest has been captured by the Americans. No one attempts to create barricades of logs and branches, possibly because all the entrenching tools have already been lost to the enemy. Proctor’s 924 men form two lines one hundred yards apart but are too few to form the standard shoulder-to-shoulder infantry manoeuvre. They stand for two and a half hours, waiting patiently for the American army to appear. They are exhausted and famished. Morale is at its lowest ebb. Tecumseh, wearing fringed deerskin ornamented with porcupine quills and ostrich feathers, rides along the ragged lines on a white pony. He is in high spirits as he offers encouragement. Proctor’s army is as ready as it will ever be. Meanwhile, Harrison and his scouts wait for the main body of his 3,000-strong army to catch up. History doesn’t record it, but it is almost certain that Major Simon Zelotes Watson and Captain
Andrew Westbrook accompanied Harrison’s army. These two “spies” are probably the only two in Harrison’s army who know the road and the terrain due to their many travels through the district from Westminster (Byron) and Delaware, respectively. Harrison’s army catches up. An hour and a half passes while he lines up his troops. Harrison holds a council of war on horseback. The smaller, middle swamp is deemed impassible on horseback. Colonel Richard Johnson notes the lack of underbrush in the light forest as he stares out at the thin British line 300 yards away and suggests a cavalry attack instead of an infantry attack. Harrison agrees and changes the order of battle on the spot. A second cavalry will be directed at the Natives. At three in the afternoon, anticipation reigns. Tecumseh dismounts and joins his warriors. All is quiet. A bugle sounds. It sounds again, only closer...” Charge them, my brave Kentuckians!” cries Harrison. (To be continued) Photo credit Warfare History Network.
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Jan/Feb 2025 Page 9
Community Update from Thames Valley District School Board Trustees As we hit the ground running in 2025, we hope that your holiday season was merry and bright. School Registration Registration for 2025-2026 opens January 20th for kindergarten and French Immersion. There is a live virtual kindergarten information session on January 27th; check tvdsb.ca for registration information. French Immersion (FI) is a way for students to learn a second language while still developing their skills in English. If your family is thinking about FI, you should know that the only entry point into the program in Thames Valley is grade one. Your designated FI school is determined by your home address; to find your designated school, go to tvdsb.ca under “Find a School” then select “French Immersion Program” and input your address. For incoming grade 9 students, course registration for secondary school opened on January 6th with a fast-approaching deadline of February 10. If there are students in your home who want to register at a school other than your designated school, the deadline to submit the application is January 31 at noon. There is great information about high school options and requirements here: https://tinyurl.com/tvdsbcourses25-26 Construction Update: New Schools and Expansions Thames Valley currently has seven new schools in various stages of planning and construction, and an expansion at Eagle Heights Public School is now complete. A rededication ceremony is planned for early this year. Construction is underway for Northwest Public School and White Pine Public School, the new elementary schools for Northwest and Southwest London, and they are expected to open this September. Construction is also underway for Turtle Island Public School, the new elementary school for North Woodstock, and the school is expected to open in Winter of 2026. Additionally, four new schools in Belmont, Lucan, Southeast London, and West London are in the design phase and are expected to open for the 2026/27 school year.
Family Literacy Day (January 27) Family Literacy Day raises awareness about the importance of reading and engaging in literacy activities as a family. Did you know that if you spend just 20 minutes reading together during the week, that will add up to over 85 hours a year of time spent exploring books and stories with each other? Plus, reading helps expand your child’s vocabulary and has the added benefit of reducing screen time for the whole family. For families with older kids, just sitting together and reading separately is a way to connect and unwind without the pressure of conversation. Why not check out your local library this month? They are sure to have something for everyone. Contact Us We’re always happy to hear from members of our community. If you have questions, feedback, or ideas about school board activities, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Your input helps us better serve our schools and students.
Beth Mai b.mai@tvdsb.ca 548-388-8137
Sherri Moore sherri.moore@tvdsb.ca 519-452-2000 ext. 22409
Family Day Monday February 17th
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Anyone can attend Peggy’s 2025 New Year’s Levee and Community Recognition Awards event, which includes a light supper prepared by the Byron Legion Ladies Auxiliary, live entertainment by local artists, and friendly conversations with neighbours. The event is free. It takes place January 29, 2025, from 7 pm to 9 pm at Byron-Springbank Legion Branch 533, 1276 Commissioners Road West. Doors open at 6:30 pm. You must register for Peggy’s award dinner at www.peggysattler.ca/levee
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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. The London West Community Recognition Awards recognize outstanding volunteers whose dedication, passion, and service made the community a better place during the year. Peggy Sattler, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for London West, has presented this award since 2017 at her annual New Year’s Levee. More than 100 Londoners have received a Community Recognition Award. Recipients are nominated volunteers at service clubs and nonprofits, or they are individuals who have initiated community projects or made other contributions to London over time.
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519-661-2489, extension 4009 ahopkins@london.ca An update from Anna Hopkins Our Ward 9 City Councillor Winter often makes it tempting to stay indoors, but London has plenty of ways to keep active and connected during the The Byron Springbank Veterans Monument will represent the human side of conflict during WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Afghanistan and Peacekeeping. It not only commemorates those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but it also honours those who came home, started families and businesses, and created the building blocks upon which Canada was built. It will be a place where people can gather to learn about our history and honour the lives of those who served. Support the Monument colder months. The City’s community centres offer a range of activities, from swimming and art classes to science workshops and badminton. Whether you’re shooting hoops or diving into a new hobby, there’s something for everyone. Explore program options at london.ca/recreation. For outdoor enthusiasts, Victoria Park’s free skating rink is a favourite (call 519-661-2489 or visit london.ca/skating for updates). Or try the scenic skating trail at Storybook Gardens. Find details at storybookgardens.ca. Don’t forget Boler Mountain, a community gem offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and event spaces. With seven runs, three lifts, and a Tube Park, it’s perfect for winter fun. Visit bolermountain.com or call 519-657-8822. Updates for Ward 9 As the year ends, we reflect on key moments shaping our city, from housing initiatives to infrastructure projects. Highlights include: • Budget Update: Council approved a 7.3% property tax increase, equivalent to $104 for every $100,000 of assessed value. Charitable tax receipts for any gift of $20.00 or more made through the London Community Foundation will be issued. www.lcf.on.ca/donate The Byron Springbank Veterans Monument appeals to us and calls on us to Remember, Reflect and Preserve the memories and legacies of those who built our nation. Your support is needed to make this important project a reality, which is why the Byron Springbank Veterans Monument project has partnered with the London Community Foundation (LCF) to raise the necessary funds. A one-time or monthly donation can be made through the LCF’s link below. Please remember to indicate that your gift is in support of the Byron Springbank Veterans Monument Fund. Remember, Reflect, Preserve With each passing year, the memory of the many contributions of Canadian soldiers, air personnel and sailors during times of conflict fades a little more from our collective memory.
• Oxford/Gideon Roundabout: Construction pauses over winter, resuming in spring 2025, with completion expected in 2025. • Oxford Street West Improvements: Work begins in 2026, with detailed design underway. • Urban Growth Boundary: Changes will be reviewed in early 2025, with final reports by mid-year. • Master Mobility Plan: Public engagement starts in January, focusing on transit, roads, cycling, and sidewalks. Council’s Decision on Ward Boundary Review I was pleased to witness the Lambeth community’s strong turnout at the Public Participation Meeting in support of Option 1, emphasizing the importance of keeping the Lambeth community unified. I share this sentiment and firmly believe the community should not be divided. Ward 9 is experiencing rapid development, which led me to sup- port the City of London’s initiation of a Community Improvement Plan approximately eight years ago. This process highlighted Lambeth’s cultural and historical significance, underscoring the need to preserve its identity. Minor adjustments to the Ward 9 boundaries are part of the changes. To the east, Ward 10 will now extend from Wonderland Road to Bostwick Road, ending at Wharncliffe Road. Additionally, Ward 14 will begin south of Highway 401 and extend to the city limits. These new Ward boundaries will take place for the 2026 Municipal Election. Celebrate London’s 2024 milestones at london.ca/2024, and stay connected through my newsletter. Contact me at ahopkins@london.ca or visit annahopkins.ca. A-A L-1 PROPOSED SCULPTURE LOCATION KEY MAP Barry R. Murphy, O.A.L.A. C.S.L.A. DATE LONDON, ONTARIO (519) 667-3322. BARRY R. MURPHY, OALA, CSLA, LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT, TENDER PURPOSES UNLESS SIGNED AND DATED BY THIS DRAWING SHALL NOT BE USED FOR CONSTRUCTION OR WITHOUT THE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS WRITTEN PERMISSION. ARCHITECT AND SHALL NOT BE REPRODUCED OR REUSED ALL DRAWINGS REMAIN THE PROPERTY OF THE LANDSCAPE LANDSCAPE PLAN - BYRON LEGION MONUMENT SCALE = 1:200
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Their lengthy union began with Don working in Port Credit for John Deere and Mary was employed at the Bank of Mon- treal until retirement, save the young years of their children, Tim and Tara. When they start- ed school, Mary resumed her employment. In 1975, Don was transferred to Chatham, and Mary secured work at the BMO there. In 1976, Don and Mary were transferred to London and resided in Ponds Mills. Both children completed their education in London. In 1978, Don began working as an Industrial Mechanic for a company called Tennant. He worked from his home office and his territory cove- red Southwestern Ontario. In 2008, after twenty-nine years, he retired to enjoy the sunset years with his love, Mary. When asked what has kept them together, they said they married each other’s best friend. Mary and Don are very
True Love of a Fifty-six Year Marriage by Ruth-Anne Calhoun In the presence of Mary and Don Clayton, this writer was captured instantly by the strength and devotion of their mutual love. They met in Port Credit, where Mary’s parents settled from Italy in 1954. Don moved to Port Credit in 1967 and resided across the street from Mary’s family. Cupid wasted no time in shooting the arrows of love to both. When asked what drew Mary to Don, she said, “I thought he was a cute guy who parked his car in front of my home. It was a strong physical attraction and I would keep watch for him.” Don said, “I thought she was the prettiest girl I ever saw.” One day, when Mary was going to the store, Don asked her if she would pick up some orange juice for him. Upon returning with his juice, he asked her out and she accepted. In true gentleman style, he asked her parent’s permission to take Mary to the (C.N.E.) Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto. Her folks, who were strong Italian Catholics, consented. Mary and Don enjoyed their day and rode the Flying Gondolas, which were attached high up by wires. Don looked behind them and was shocked when he saw a Nun sitting in the rear car! It unnerved him somewhat and he thought he had better behave himself. Mary mused that perhaps this was a good sign, the Lord’s blessing. And so it was. In 1968, they were wed in Mary’s parents’ home. Both Don and Mary’s families had a strong work ethic. Because the couple were financially conscientious, they chose to have a small wedding with family and a few close friends. The ceremony was in the unfinished basement with cinder block walls decorated by streamers. The setting was irrelevant to the couple because the most important thing was being married to the love of each other’s life. Mary’s mother had a close friend who catered the meal.
compatible. They respect one another and both feel very lucky. They talk through all issues, make decisions together, compromise, share the same value system, and do not go to bed angry. Their life has been filled with thoughtfulness, mutual love, kindness, caring, and affection, and they put the other one first. “Our love has grown over the decades and still grows every day.” they both said. This doesn’t mean there weren’t some disagreements, but they overcame any hurdles that arose. Communication and mutual understanding are key. Don said, “She is my rock,” and Mary said the same thing about Don. “We appreciate each other and our friends. This is what we instilled in our children along with the importance of volunteer work.” Don and Mary have volunteered throughout most of their marriage. Mary mainly works with the Heart and Stroke Foundation and Thames Valley Children’s Centre. Don volunteers with the Terry Fox Foundation and Special Olympics and works with the disenfranchised, helping to show them kindness and hope. They were also members of the Byron Community Organization. “We are very lucky and believe strongly in giving back. We count our blessings,” said both of them. As this story was being completed, Mary was speaking with their son, Tim, and his wife, who were in the village where Mary was born in Italy. Tim sent Mary a picture of him and his wife standing in front of the house where Mary was born. Mary said, “I can’t believe it is still standing; it is nearly a hundred years old!” It seems another blessing has been bestowed upon this wonderful, amazing couple. We were blessed when this couple, who are ‘The salt of the earth,’ joined our Beloved Byron family thirty-eight years ago. Don said, “We want our story to give people hope and inspiration.”
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Employee of the Month November
Nowadays excellent customer service is considered as the biggest merit that a company can earn. It is the attribute that people value more than good price of a product or even more than its quality. Byron Pizza has always exceeded in customer service and now we’d like to recognize these valuable employees.
Riley
Employee of the Month December
Nowadays excellent customer service is considered as the biggest merit that a company can earn. It is the attribute that people value more than good price of a product or even more than its quality. Byron Pizza has always exceeded in customer service and now we’d like to recognize these valuable employees.
Hadley
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Page 14 Byron Villager
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