Byron Villager April 2022

Byron Villager April 2022

Byron

APRIL 2022 ISSUE 69

Villager

Back in the day

Byron Villager Issue #69 April 2022 www.villagerpublications.com Publisher and Editor Barb Botten Villager Publications P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station London Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Graphic Artist – Jon Botten Photography – Nicole Fotia Cartoons – David Botten To advertise: 519-282-7262 or [email protected] We look foward to hearing from you! Hy e Park-Oakridge Villager Issue 57 Jan ary 2022 www.villagerpublications.com Managing Editor: Cathy Wood [email protected] Advertising: Tami Martin 519-851-0961 [email protected] Nippy Watson [email protected] Publisher: Barb Botten Villager Publications, P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood

Sunset at Wickerson Ponds, Byron. Photo courtesy of Toinette Parisio.

Byron Optimist Fair in the mid-fifties

Back in the Day Photographed November 20, 2016 during that season’s first snowstorm, this Ford truck has seen many first snow falls in its 70 years. Before it’s “semi-retirement” to be on display at the Crossings restaurant on Hyde Park Road for a time, it had worked on a farm near Wallaceburg. Does anyone know more about it’s history? Please write in!

New

Welcome to the Hyde Park-Oakridge Villager! We support local arts, entrepreneurs, business, organizations and more by bringing historical and current neighbourhood people and passion to print. You are invited to share stories, photos, event information and to advertise. The 100% locally owned and operated Hyde Park Oakridge Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences and is an ideal way to reach your local market. NEVER MISS ANOTHER ISSUE OF VILLAGER! Now you can read your local community magazine at villagerpublications.com and at the Archives room at the Central Branch of the London Public Library Volunteering is important because it enables individuals to help others in a selfless way. Volunteering is important for our community groups beca se they depend solely on volunteer work i order to operat . Why volunteer? The benefits of volunteering are almost endless. Just ask someone who does it. You’ll be amazed at the ways a person can grow in just a few hours a month. Many people say that volunteering has changed them in ways they never expected. They’ve made new friends, earned new skills and expanded their hearts, minds and souls.

There are countless volunteers in the Byron community and this issue we have highlighted just a few of them in recognition of National Volunteer Month. A hug thank you t l those individuals who volunteer in our community. Your commitment, dedication and time makes the world a better place. Thank you!

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April 22, 23 & 24 2022

Sarah Cowling

The London Artist’s Studio Tour provides an opportunity to connect personally with local artists where they work and maybe even live as they invite you into their studios to see first-hand the materials and equipment they use and the work environment that results in the art that intrigues, excites, inspires and trains us to see the world through an artist’s eye. The self-guided tour has been operating for 29 years. This year, the dates are Friday April 22nd to Sunday April 24th. Check the website for more information at www.londonstudiotour.ca Byron area participating artists include:

Karen Rhebergen

Faranak Aeeni

Faranak Aeeni 918 Thistleridge Cresc. 519-614-2072

Marilyn Lazenby 456 Blake Street. 519-615-1960 Karen Rhebergen 376 Boler Road. 857-335-6681

Sarah Cowling 180 Timber Drive. 519-671-2498

Marilyn Lazenby

Issue 69 - April 2022 Page 3

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Baseline Road, beeping his horn at his daughter, Linda and I as we waved him off to work at the Sunoco. The 1960s were very mechanically fit in Byron with six garages! The Byron Villager plans to write a series about our garages from the Brock Garage during the 1930s and 1940s to current day. All the information for this article and for the Byron Garage story, has been garnered from the ‘seasoned’ memories of Peggy Balch, Sharm Spicer and Wayne Calhoun. We are doing our best to gather as accurate accounts as possible of all the automotive businesses. Please, if any of you have information or know someone who does, please email it to [email protected]. Thank you!

Here, There and Everywhere a Garage! By Ruth-Anne Calhoun

For nearly one hundred years our ‘Beloved Byron’ has been home to several garages. During the 1960s, when the population was considerably smaller, our quaint village boasted six fully operational garages located from Boler and Commissioners Roads to North Street and Commissioners Road to the tri- intersection of Baseline Road, Commissioners Road and Springbank Drive. From a bird’s eye view, one could say it looked kind of like an ‘Old McDonald’s Farm’ of automotive service stations. Let’s take a road tour. Near the main corner on the northeast side, several feet east of the Park Lunch restaurant, was Park Motors owned by the Garbas brothers, Steve and Joe. Prior to them, it was Alf Hope’s business. On the northwest corner sat the Fina station and later the Shell which may have been owned by Art Storey. Across the street on the southwest side of Boler Road, next door to the Bank of Montreal, was the Byron Garage, owned by the Van Hees family which later became the Arrow station owned by the Nyssen brothers, Matt and Willie and later by Len Phillips. A short jaunt east on Commissioners was the Texaco station which was owned by Mickey Reed at one point. Continuing east, across the tri-intersection, to the base of Springbank Drive, was the Sunoco station owned by Lew Oates. Len Phillips cut his ‘mechanical teeth’ while working for Lew. I can still see Len folding down into his tiny green Isetta, a one- door car across the front, backing out of the driveway of 1148

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For several years Mr. Van leased the garage to various tenants until his demise in the early 1960s when Mrs. Van sold the business. Then it became the Arrow Station and gas pumps were added. Matt and Willie Nyssen, brothers from Ilderton and Mrs. Van’s nephews purchased it in the late 1970s or early 1980s. Later, Len Phillips bought the business and employed some Byron residents. Sometime afterwards, a new owner bought the building and land, removed the gas and air pumps and converted the garage into a sporting goods store until it was sold again and levelled to accommodate the current small plaza. Feel free to send any garage memories/info for our Garages of Byron to [email protected]. Thank you!

Byron Garage By Ruth-Anne Calhoun

In the 1940s Byron welcomed the Van Hees family who moved into the massive, three storey dark green, clapboard house on Boler Road just south of the main corner. ‘Mr. and Mrs Van’, as they were affectionately known, had three sons and one daughter: Arnold (Arnie), Martin (Spike - he was SO tall), Tony and Ann Marie (Jo). Mr. Van built a large multi bay garage on the expansive lot beside the

residence and all of the family pitched in to help. The boys and a young Stone Mason apprentice, Freddie Calhoun, (who later married Jo), diligently worked under the Master builder of the project. Mrs. Van and Jo fed the crew well. The Byron Garage was a mechanical service with no gas pumps but it had and an air pump for tires. Many Byron kids filled their bicycle tires there. The lot was unpaved and soaked with oil. Two mechanics were hired full time and a bustling business began. In 1955, Chevrolet rolled out its’ star of the year, their first V-8 engine and had an overhead valve. It was the 1955 Chevy Bel Air that boasted a unique dual muffler system and a high powered motor. Both Arnie and Spike had one, Arnie’s was pale green and white while Spike’s was hot red and white. Spike was a risk taker, a true adventure lover. Arnie was more of a smooth, laid back fellow with a quiet charm. Both boys could lure the ladies easily with their gorgeous looks, winning smiles and hot cars. The Van Hees family had personality plus and a great sense of humour.

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Hyde Park in Uptown London has its own distinctive essence. A hamlet within the city, Hyde Park is filled with a variety of shopping experiences, diverse products, and friendly services. Come out and “Shop, Eat, Work and Play” while you enjoy all Hyde Park in Uptown London has to offer!

Easter Fun

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Win an Easter Goodie Basket with over $300 of goodies from Hyde Park businesses!

Pick-up a passport sheet at any of our participating retailers or on our website! 1 2 Snap a pic of your completed sheet, post it on social media, tag us @HydeParkBIA and that’s it! You’re entered to win an egg-citing Easter basket from our businesses! 3 Visit each business to pick-up a sticker for your passport sheet!

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March 28th - April 8th

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Page 12 Ilderton and Area Villager • April 2022

Employee of the Month February

Serving Byron for 40 years

1255 Commissioners Rd W (corner of Boler and Commissioners) 519-471-3500

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.

Keegan Bechard and Storm

www.byronoptometry.com

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TheThree Amigos Go to War

On February 24th, 2022, Russia invaded the Ukraine. Russia is 28 times larger than the Ukraine and it has four times the population. The World is wondering if the Ukrainians can survive in this blatantly unequal contest. This Goliath versus David invasion has countries such as nearby Latvia wondering if it is next. Tiny Taiwan is wondering if China will get ideas and attempt to bring it into its fold. Canadians would do well to wonder how Canada

for Family. This caused some confusion amongst the settlers who would look around and say “What tyranny?” Hull’s Proclamation did, however, appeal to three American- born Loyalists: Andrew Westbrook, Ebenezer Allan and Simon Zelotes Watson. It has been said that Westbrook joined the Americans because he was miffed at being passed over for the rank of Major in the militia; being offered the rank of Captain instead. More likely, Andrew, ever the realist, took a good look at who was likely to win the war and decided to back the Americans. Ebenezer would fit the profile of a victim of tyranny, having been in and out of British gaols for the last few years and having lost practically everything. Could he do any worse under an American regime? Simon’s motivation was simple: he wanted revenge on Talbot and he planned to use the American army to help him achieve it. There is some conjecture as to whether Ebenezer rode with them, but certainly Andrew and Simon appeared at General Hull’s headquarters the next day to ask for some men to accompany them back to Delaware and Westminster. Instead of welcoming them with open arms, Hull was very suspicious and accused them of wanting to use American forces to settle old scores. Someone must have put in a good word, (Colonel McArthur perhaps?) because when they left Sandwich a few days later, Andrew and Simon were the newest members of the United States Army of the Northwest; Andrew as a Captain and Simon as a Colonel in command of a troop of thirty men with saddlebags filled with copies of the Proclamation. (To be continued...)

could survive, if, say, the USA, with roughly ten times the population, elected a rogue, autocratic, Trump-type President who took it into his head to invade? Oh, wait... Canada has already witnessed that scenario...in 1812! Putin has suggested that he had to intervene in the Ukraine because Russian citizens have been persecuted in the Donbas region for the last eight years. General Hull also played the “victim card” by stating that the United States has been “driven to arms by the insults and indignities of Great Britain which has left them no alternative.” Hull (and Putin) also played the “family” card. Since the population of the Western District of Upper Canada was about 80% American-born, Hull implied that he was doing them a favour by invading to help them throw off the yoke of British “Tyranny and Oppression”. After all, that’s what Family does

Issue 69 - April 2022 Page 7

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police regarding many issues that are brought forward from the community. This includes, thefts, speeding and suspicious activity. What motivates you to stay involved? I receive many messages and phone calls from the community members about concerns they have. Most of these interactions are done privately and confidential to ensure privacy for the community member. Whether it is providing information about police contact information or just listening to the concerns, it allows me to stay actively involved in the community.. After helping someone with a concern people are so grateful and you get that feel good moment knowing you have provided support for that person. Why do you volunteer? I consider myself lucky to live in such a wonderful caring community. The idea of supporting the community I live in is something that is important to me. Of what contribution or achievement are you most proud? The creation of Eyes of Byron. We have made a difference with some members of the community and created relationships with community members, London Police and the City Hall. How does volunteering improve your life? Volunteering allows me to de-stress, providing a service to the community, the smiles, tears and the laughs make every second with it. Whether I am standing on the soccer field with 100 young kids playing soccer, chairing a board meeting or sitting in a Tim Hortons discussing community concerns with our City Councillor, it all provides a sense of accomplishment knowing you have created a positive impact. Campaign motivates me to stay involved. It is important to create awareness and support Veterans of all ages, who have made sacrifices for our freedom over the years. In your opinion, what is the most important work that this organization does? In my opinion, the most important work that the Legion does is fundraising for the Poppy Campaign to be able to help those Veterans in our community who are struggling and to donate to the Veteran’s Hospital for those Veterans who are there. Why do you volunteer? I volunteer to give back to our community and to help keep the memories alive of those who fought for our freedom. Veterans have all made great sacrifices. Of what contribution or achievement are you most proud? Since I have been Poppy Chairman we have raised over $250,000 in the past seven years. How does volunteering improve your life? Volunteeringoffers away to contribute toour community andhelp others who are struggling. It offers a sense of accomplishment and gratification to make a difference in society.

Brad Stokkermans – Eyes on Byron When did you get involved with this

organization? 3.5 years ago.

What attracted you to the cause? At the beginning I had both our vehicles broken into and several items stolen. It was then when I realized that I was not the only one who had items stolen and that it was a significant problem within Byron. What attracted you to this organization in particular? I was able to connect with Grant Thomas and Dan Doroshenko who are very active members of the Byron community and discuss some of the community issues. Leading to the creation of Eyes of Byron. Being able to provide support and information to the members of the Byron Community, create contacts, meet new people, and try make our community a safer place for everyone. What are your activities and what do they involve? Eyes on Byron board members hold monthly meetings (pre covid), these meetings were to discuss the current crime rates that the London Police would provide, Discuss ideas of how to further engage the community and how to provide accurate information in an effort to keep ourselves and property safe. Eyes on Byron currently has adopted 2 parks in the Byron area and are responsible for spring and fall cleanups. Eyes on Byron is in regular contact with the London Police and works with the

Michael Beatty – Byron Legion When did you get involved with this organization? I became a member of the Byron Legion in 2010.

What attracted you to the cause? I am a veteran of the Canadian Forces Reserves so there was a natural draw to being a member of the Legion. What are your activities and what do they involve?

I am the Poppy Chairman and the 3rd Vice President. As Poppy Chairman I am responsible for organizing and promoting the Poppy Campaign for Western London. The Campaign raises funds to help those Veterans who are in need and to give comfort to those in retirement homes, hospitals around the city. What motivates you to stay involved? The idea of helping Veterans and promoting the Poppy

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Byron Villager

valuable funding to homes, she saw the need to help residents feel connected with their families. Contacting the Foundation, she introduced the idea of donating iPads to the residents that would allow them to connect with family and volunteers, a way to interact with others that they might not have had before. Jillian spoke of her vision with her extended network of contacts and friends, and they shared her enthusiasm. They presented six iPads with protective cases to McCormick Home, and Tanya Pol, Administrator of the McCormick Home, expressed her gratitude and that of her fellow staff and residents. The residents could use these devices to use programs such as Zoom, Skype, or Facetime to speak to their loved ones. Since the pandemic began, residents received over 1,172 virtual calls and messages. Visits averaged 30 minutes, with over 536 hours of engagement combined! The iPads have also proved useful to allow for small group sessions of live music, travelogues, and church services. Currently, family and residents enjoy scheduled socially distanced visits while following government-mandated safety measures. The virtual visits remain very popular to help families keep in touch with residents and the residence has embraced them as part of the new normal. The McCormick difference is possible through the generosity of supporters. Donations help provide tools and resources needed to enhance the quality of life for residents every day. With their thoughtful contributions, Jillian Summers and her friends have provided the gift of connection during difficult times. Thank you, Jillian, for being a shining example of genuine community and care for all!

Jillian Summers – McCormick Home Generous Donation helps connect Seniors and Families virtually

With the inspiration and generosity of community, Jillian Summers and friends have helped retired seniors connect with volunteers and families over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. We often take connecting with our families and friends for granted. The COVID-19 pandemic showed people

that keeping in touch with our loved ones is vital for our mental health and communities. One sector in need was Long-Term Care, whose residents found themselves restricted in having visitors or volunteers. Jillian Summers knows the value of the programs from McCormick Home. Her father became ill with Alzheimers and she often attended McCormick’s Day Programs. Every Christmas, she and her family shop for gifts, lovingly wrap them, and present them to the McCormick residents while dressed festively. “Seeing the look of joy on the faces of the residents is so heartwarming,” says Jillian. Grateful for the success in her life, Jillian feels strongly about giving back to her community. When the pandemic’s impact resulted in the cancellation of the black-tie galas that provide

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Under The Stars Outdoor Movie Night held in Jorgenson Park in late August, the Clean Sweep Garage Sale fundraising in September & Halloween in The Village at the end of October both held within the Byron Optimist Community Centre in Jorgenson Park. In addition, we have partnered with ReForest London in holding the annual free tree giveaway within the Village and were chosen to participate with the City of London in 2 trial programs – a free Home Energy Check-up & the Walk To Shop imitative, supporting our local stores and businesses. Both of these have now expanded throughout the City. The BCO became active with the Adopt-A-Park program, a free community partnership with the City of London where we donate time to give special care to our adopted park – Jorgenson Park in Byron. Once a year, during Earth Week, the volunteers do a cleanup throughout the park with this year’s date on Saturday, April 23rd. Members, non-members, and residents of Byron are all welcome to assist in our annual event, with details available on the BCO website-www. byroncomunityorganization.com. There are many achievements and contributions that have been created by the members of the BCO. The most recent was securing funding through the Neighbourhood Decision Making program, a community-wide voting process that has enabled the Warbler Woods Environmentally Significant Area to receive upgrades and a face-lift for this important natural wooded area at the west end of Byron. The personal rewards as a volunteer member – working alongside a great group of Byron residents, in providing opportunities to volunteer their time and efforts for the benefit of the entire community. They introduced a new Caregiver website, which included a wealth of information from recreation activities to nutrition tips. Social workers provided ongoing support by phone initially and soon after through secure video meetings. Despite the web, phone, and virtual support, there was a growing need to expand their reach into the community with practical and immediate recreational solutions for caregivers. The team developed individualized dementia activity kits and provided contactless delivery direct to clients’ homes. Nickey appreciates all the support that went into the bottle drive she organized to raise the funds for the McCormick Day Program. She also thanks Joe at Bernie’s Bar & Grill for the use his parking lot as a drop-off location for the bottles. Nickey, however, didn’t stop with supporting the McCormick Day Program. She went on to coordinate three more bottle drives throughout the pandemic, raising funds for Mario Vella, a local man and ALS patient in need of equipment. These efforts raised $80,000. Nickey continues to raise community spirits and support community needs through various coat and food drives and fun activities for the Byron Community. Keep checking Nickey Calford Real Estate Facebook page for details on upcoming events.

Dan Doroshenko – Byron Community Organization

The Byron Community Or- ganization is a volunteer-run neighbourhood association es- tablished in the Fall of 2013 & held an event in May of 2014 called Byron Is Beautiful. I became aware of the BCO while attending this event &, both my wife Gayle & I having grown up in Byron and with a definite interest in the community, immediately joined. The BCO is a member of the Urban League of London & each community group across the City designates a person

to attend the monthly ULL meetings & when the position became vacant for the BCO, I volunteered to represent our group. Shortly afterward, I became Co-Chair of the BCO, mid-term, to assist until the next Annual General Meeting, where I was voted in as Chair. Through support from the City of London for neighbourhood groups, the opportunity became available to fund free family events via 2 City grant programs; NeighbourGood London and the Neighbourhood Decision Making program. With the strong efforts and their creative input from the volunteer members, 3 annual events were established – Nickey Calford – Byron Volunteer Concerned about the devastating impact of the global pandemic, local real estate agent Nickey Calford finds ingenious ways to support her community. When the pandemic arrived mid- March 2020, Nickey Calford saw a social media post from the McCormick Home and sprung into action, rallying her friends and the Byron Community, along with many others who saw the same post. Through hard work, organization, and perseverance, they raised $2,300 to help the McCormick Day Program pivot their resources and continue serving their community. As COVID-19 settled in, the McCormick Day Program took a leadership position and made a very difficult decision to ensure the safety of clients, families, and staff by temporarily closing their doors. Recognizing the significant impact this would have for clients and caregivers, the team at McCormick Home quickly adapted their knowledge, experience, and skillsets to a virtual world.

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from all walks of life. It’s one of the few places where you can meet other men who’s paths you would likely not cross. Ashlar Lodge has retired men, bankers, financial planners, technology workers, factory workers, construction workers and even tattoo artists as members. In your opinion, what is the most important work that this organization does? Aside from our personal development focus, Freemasons support many worthwhile charities and causes. One such cause is blood donation. In London, over almost 1,000 units of blood and plasma are donated annually. I personally have made 66 whole blood donations and I’m proud to say my son is following in his father and grandfather’s footsteps and is now a regular blood donor too! Our Lodge sponsors a bursary through the Thames Valley Education Foundation for a graduating student from Beal Secondary who is heading into the trades. We also support various charitable needs as we become aware of them and are able to help. Why do you volunteer? My parents were both very active volunteers and instilled in me the importance of giving back to the community. Of what contribution or achievement are you most proud? My election as DDGM in 2021 was a crowning moment in my Masonic endeavors. My father was elected DDGM in 1977 and I proudly wear his regalia. What other organizations or causes do you support? I have been a lifelong volunteer. In addition to my Masonic duties currently serve as Chair of the Addiction Services of Thames Valley Foundation, Board Member and Finance & Facilities Committee Chair for the London Middlesex Health Unit (Board of Health), and Council Member and Registrations Committee Chair for the College of Homeopaths of Ontario. All this in addition to a full time job. How does volunteering improve your life? Muhammad Ali said “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” Volunteering is another dimension to add value to my life (besides work and family). to $12,220 thanks to the generosity of Heart & Stroke’s sponsor, Canadian Pacific Railway. Mary was absolutely blown away. Because of her steadfast supporters, Mary was named the Number One Canvasser in Ontario Southwest for the second year in a row! Mary always gets calls from Heart & Stroke’s head office, asking what the secret is to her success. Her reply is always the same: she has amazing family and friends who support her year after year. “I must say I am pretty proud of my wonderful family and friends who so generously donated to a cause that is so close to me and my family,” explains Mary. “I have been a volunteer for 11 years now. I started after I had a double bypass in 2011.” While Mary knows her supporters contribute to many other charities, she is grateful they also donate to Heart and Stroke.

R.W. Bro. Michael Steele, District Deputy Grand Master (Ashlar Lodge Byron) When did you get involved with this organization? I joinedAshlar Lodge in September 1996 – just over 25 years ago. What attracted you to the cause?

My boss at the time and some friends from work introduced me to the Lodge. My Father, Uncle and Grandfathers were all Freemasons. What attracted you to this organization in particular? Freemasonry is the oldest and

largest fraternal organization in the world. Its members share a common goal of helping each other become better men. Its body of knowledge and system of ethics is based on the belief that each man has a responsibility to improve himself while being devoted to his family, faith, country, and fraternity. Freemasonry offers much to its members—the opportunity to grow, the chance to make a difference and the means to build a better world for our children and grandchildren. It offers the chance to socialize and work with men who have the same values and ideals. What are your activities and what do they involve? I am a Past Master of the Lodge (equivalent to the Lodge President), Past Secretary and currently the District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM). The Grand Master is the elected leader of our organization in Ontario. As the elected DDGM, I represent the Grand Master in the London West District. What motivates you to stay involved? Freemasonry is truly a multi-generational organization. I have friends in their late 80s who are members. Friends around my age (59) as well as young men (in their 20s) and everything in between. My 23 year old son has applied to join and will become a member later in the spring. Besides all ages, we have men Mary Clayton – Heart & Stroke Foundation Mary Clayton has completed her eleventh annual fundraising campaign for Heart & Stroke. Every year she’s truly overwhelmed by the generosity and support from everyone who participates.

Mary started this year’s campaign with a target of $4,000 and soon changed it to $4,500, then to $5,000. She increased it one more time to $6,000, thinking she would never get this amount.

Insert an imaginary drumroll here because, by the time she was done, Mary raised $6,110! Because all her fundraising happened online, the donations doubled, bringing the grand total this year

Issue 69 - April 2022 Page 11

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with the Club. He rose to become the president. At the end of that term Optimist International awarded him the Distinguished President title. He further went on to the Midwestern District of Optimist International which allowed him to move on thru various roles. At the same time his role recycled itself to another term as President and currently as Club Secretary. The question raised is why he is still active. The organization has had a moto “Friend of Youth”. He believes that all young people need help in many ways and that the Club does that thru various programs. A smile or thank you from the youth is all he looks forward too. In addition to being an optimist, he is also involved with London Track3 ski School, Special Olympics, Western Fair District, and more thus enhancing quality of life for local youth.

EricThomson – Optimist Club of Byron His story about volunteering in Byron goes back to the summer of 1982. With a young family at that time, he enrolled his oldest son in baseball at the Byron Optimist Sports Complex. He received an invitation from the Optimist to attend a meeting that had the description as a N.O.W. (New Optimist Wanted) program. By the end of that meeting after several presentation by the club members he was asked to join their organization. Thus started his career Helping UkrainiansThrough Art Local artist, Marilyn Lazenby wanted to do something to help the people of Ukraine. She painted a field of sunflowers with a blue sky symbolic of the Ukrainian flag and country colours and named the painting “Standing Tall” 40”x30” to reflect the strength of the people of Ukraine and the sunflowers that grow there. Marilyn has made prints and cards in collaboration with her printers to raise funds in the hopes of supporting the Ukrainian peoples’ struggle for freedom. Cards are sold individually for $6.50 or in packages of 5 for $30.00 plus HST. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross/ Ukrainian Humanitarian Crisis. These cards are proudly printed and supported by Accell Graphics Group. Please consider helping this effort by visiting Marilyn’s website at

www.marigoldgreetings.com where you have the opportunity to order these cards online.

Marilyn is also part of London Artist’s Studio Tour taking place April 22-24, 2022 and cards will be available at her studio during this tour. For more information see page 3 of this Byron Villager issue. You can help spread the word by following and sharing on Facebook @marilynlazenbydesigns and Instragram @marigold.greetings.

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Byron Villager

Volunteering in our Community. I believe that we are a stronger and healthier Community not because of what we are obligated to do as an Order of Government but how we as residents are committed to giving back to our community. Throughout the pandemic we all learned to pivot, do things differently. Now as we move into the next stage of the pandemic and look at economic recovery, we will find new and creative ways to give back to not only our own communities but to those who are in need in a selfless way. Throughout the years, I have always had a desire to volunteer. As a teenager, working as a candy striper at a hospital or as a youth volunteer at a summer day camp or drop-in center. As a parent, volunteering at my children’s day care centre or school or being a member of a community group. Volunteering can often lead to work opportunities, skill development and improve life satisfaction which may improve health. Most important of all it has been an opportunity of connecting with people which have inspired me to do better. There are so many groups and organizations that contribute and do important work in our community and need help. There are certain charities that exist solely on volunteer support to operate, such as sports teams, rotary groups, environmental groups, and community organizations. There are institutions that also require support such as schools, hospitals, long-term care homes and those that support disabilities and addictions. The recent invasion that is occurring in Ukraine has created an overwhelming response to help internationally. A mother

As a Candidate for Ward 9 in this will be a number of conversations constituents.

wanting to support and help people who are in hot spots in Ukraine set up a charity cake sale, raffled tickets, and raised $2,520.00. Others are contributing directly via Airbnb bookings. The Canadian Red Cross is supporting Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal. The Government of Canada will match all eligible donations not exceeding $100,000 made by individual Canadians to Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal between February 24th to March 18, 2022, up to a maximum of $30 million. Whether contributing time, talents or resources, we all have the capacity to volunteer and make a difference. You can reach out to me anytime at [email protected], www. annahopkins.ca or cell#226-927-0439. Take care of one another.

Serving the mission of St. George and St. John the Divine

MASS TIMES

ST. JOHN THE DIVINE

ST. GEORGE

1164 Commissioners Rd W - Byron

390 Base Line Rd W - Berkshire Wednesday 10:00 a.m. Live/Phone stream

Tuesday 6:30 p.m. Live/Phone stream

Friday 10:00 a.m. Live/Phone stream

Thursday 6:30 p.m. Live/Phone stream

RECOVER LEARNING LOSSES THIS SUMMER GET BACK ON TRACK AND START NEXT YEAR AHEAD!

S aturday 5:00 p.m. Sunday 9:00 a.m. Live/Phone stream 11:00 a.m. *Registration needed for Weekend Masses

Saturday 5:00 p.m. Live/Phone stream Sunday 10:00 a.m. *Registration needed for Weekend Masses

For our Holy Week and Easter schedule go to www.springbankcatholic.ca

SUMMER REGISTRATION OPEN!

www.springbankcatholic.ca 519-471-4220 Registration needed for Weekend Masses Registration for these Masses open March 28th at 10 am Join us every Friday at 7pm during Lent for Stations of the Cross.

oxfordlearning.com Byron 519.472.3321

Issue 69 - April 2022 Page 13

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Ireland in 1831 and arrived in St.James Park in approximately 1872 after moving here from York (now Toronto). Even more interesting is that Irish John Beattie’s mother was Annie Beattie. I can imagine Annie wondering down the street and in her thick Scottish brogue introducing herself and asking where in Scotland he was from and getting a lilting Irish reply. I wonder if they argued who made the best whiskey. John Sr passed away in 1893 at the age of 62, leaving his massive estate to his wife Virginia. John is buried in Woodland Cemetery. Virginia lived in her Elmhurst home until she passed away in 1920, having spent almost 50 years there. This beautiful stone mansion was demolished in 1921 when the property was subdivided to become the eastern end of Victor Street. The recreational programs for community members is opening back up after being mostly shut down for two years. Although not quite back up to pre-pandemic levels, it’s encouraging to see over 900 programs being offered this Spring th oughout t e City. As of publication date, the Byron Community Centre is offering daily Cardio Strength classes for Adults 55+ and daily Recreational Pickleball for Adults 18+. You must register online at https:// london.ca/living-london/recreation/programs-courses-registration or by calling Recreation Customer Service at 519-661-5575. For updates on programs being offered, check the City of London website at www.london.ca and search Play Your Way. John and Virginia had six children. John’s first son, William, passed away at the age of 13 months. Four of the six children died very young. Emma Virginia lived to be 62, passing in 1920. John’s second son, also named John, was born in 1863. John Jr became a lawyer articling at the firm of Meredith and Cox and becoming a partner when the firm became Meredith, Fisher and Beattie. John Jr was a successful lawyer who argued at the Supreme Court. He eventually moved to 90 Ridout Street, then in the late 1920s retired to Orlando, Florida where he died at age 75 in 1938. He was brought back to London and is buried in Woodland Cemetery. I can picture one of these finely dressed ladies being Virginia Beattie. Perhaps that is John Beattie Senior on the porch with John Junior sitting. Paul Prince is retired from London Life and an avid history buff living in Old South. Learn more at https://prince-cva.ca The Byron Community Centre is also availabl for rentals. The full gym has two regulation basketball nets, two pickleball courts and one volleyball court. Volleyball/pickleball nets are available but no other equipment. Access to kitchen on east side of building. No lacrosse in gym. The Gym can be divided in half using a retractable curtain. Small inflatables are permitted in this space upon approval. There are als multi-purpose rooms idea for gatherings a d m etings. Ple se call 519-661-5575 for more details. The Byron Community Centre is located at 1308 Norman Ave at Jorgenson Park. Byron Community Centre Programs Open Back Up

April in the area became numbered by 1890. This is one reason I enjoy delving into our area history. There are many mysteries to solve. Elmhurst was built between 1837 and 1842 by John Wilson. John was a judge, making this location convenient and a short walk to the court house. After John passed away, his estatewas purchased by William Bayley, who then divided the property up, with the west side becoming Victor Street around 1871. Three acres were kept for Elmhurst and two acres on the south side for a new mansion built by William Smith who called his home Belvedere. Royal Canadian Legion Branch 533 Byron-Springbank 2022 1276 Commissioners Rd. W. Phone 519-472-3300 1 The next owner was John Beattie. John was a lawyer and quite wealthy. He became a vice president at Carling Brewery. I was excited to see Mrs. Ann Beattie of 50 Byron Ave living so close to John Beattie. John Beattie was born in Belfast, Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Scan the QR code for our Bar Food Menu Meat Draw 3:30 – 5:00 PM

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Sunday Wings Special

Seniors Euchre 1:00 PM

LA Meeting 7:00 PM

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Sunday Wings Special

Seniors Euchre 1:00 PM

Exec Meeting 6:30 PM

Good Friday Legion Hours 1-7 PM

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Easter Sunday Legion Closed

Seniors Euchre 1:00 PM

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Seniors Euchre 1:00 PM

Sunday Wings Special

Happy Hour

Bar Hours Mon - Wed – 1:00 PM – 9:00PM Thursday – 1:00 PM – 9:00PM Friday – 1:00 PM – 10:00PM Saturday – 1:00 PM – 10:00PM Sunday – 1:00 PM – 7:00PM (Bar may close earlier at Bartender’s Discretion )

For Hall Rentals Contact Jamie Hughes 519-472-1001 ByronLegion@out look.com

Next Month Preview

May 14 Dance Speed wobble

Mon-Fri 3-7 PM

50% LEASED!

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Page 1 2 Wortley Villager • January-February 2022

Reconnect in Retirement! Nestled in West 5, Riverstone Retiree Apartments offer a lifestyle that caters to social connection and vibrant living. Start your day at yoga class, dine on the rooftop with friends, then grab a warm drink by the fireplace. At Riverstone, there’s time for everything.

Book your tour and move in today! 519.474.4410 | LiveAtRiverstone.ca

Page 14

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Byron Villager

Find It In London The collective effort of the London Community Recovery Network is focused on creating a strong, resilient and inclusive post-pandemic London, and has developed a framework that sets out a common vision, focus areas and shared measures for community recovery in London. As part of the London Community Recovery Network, Tourism London, in collaboration with Argyle BIA, Downtown London, Hamilton Road BIA, Hyde Park BIA, Old East Village BIA and others, has launched a citywide ‘Find it in London’ pro- motional campaign. This coordinated, collaborative, promotional partnership will create a sense of community and drive recovery in the city while stimulating local tourism and economic growth. ‘Find it in London’ is telling stories of the community, creating relationships and building connections that will encourage people to want to shop local, support local and experience all that London has to offer. Why should you shop local? Shopping local … • Stimulates the local economy as dollars spent locally continue to circulate in our community • Supports and creates jobs within our community • Supports our neighbours who own businesses in our community • Supports local charities through give back programs • Supports independent business owners who tend to have more product knowledge, better service and unique expertise to help with your shop local experience

You are invited to be part of Find It In London! There is no cost to your business to be involved … and there are other opportunities as well! Your business will be listed in the online business directory on the campaign’s website www.finditinlondon.ca. You also will be eligible to be included in future activations that will bring customers to you including a special holiday gift guide and fun marketing initiatives! How to get your business involved: • Visit: www.finditinlondon.ca/ submissions/ • Complete the form and include photos, your logo and a description of the unique products or services that your business provides.

• Share this information with other local business owners so that others can be involved! And don’t forget to use the hashtag #finditinlondon whenever you’re using social media for your business!

want your business featured on our site? visit: finditinlondon.ca

Issue 69 - April 2022 Page 15 To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

To advertise here please contact [email protected] Page 10 Wortley Villager • April 2022

Ukrainian Varenyky (Perogies) Ukraine is a country known for its beautiful and diverse landscape, well preserved culture and they are known for many amazing culinary dishes. You can fill these half-moons of dough with just about anything you’d like – fruit, meat, veggies, sauerkraut, cheese, etc. This recipe uses the traditional potato and cheese filling. Making them in squares results in less waste. INGREDIENTS Filling 1/3 lb cheddar cheese, grated

Josh Morgan, City of London Councillor – Ward 7 New

Cell phone: 226-927-0395 Phone: 519-661-2500 Ext. 4007 Email: [email protected] Councillor’s Office at 519-661-5095

Twitter: @JoshMorganLDN Facebook.com/JoshMorganLDN Instagram.com/JoshMorganLDN

3 large potatoes Salt and pepper

Peel and boil potatoes, mash, add salt and pepper to taste and combine with cheese. Allow to cool completely or refrigerate. (If not cooled, dough might separate during cooking.) Dough 3 c. all-purpose flour 1 ½ tsp salt 1 egg 4 tsp. vegetable oil ¾ c. cold water (approx.) DIRECTIONS Combine flour and salt. Beat egg, oil, and ½ c water. Stir in flour until dough forms a soft ball that’s no longer sticky. Add 1 tsp. water at a time as needed. Turn out onto lightly floured counter. Knead bread about 10 times until dough is smooth. Cut dough in half and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Let rest at room temp for 20 minutes.

Roll to 1/16” thickness. Cut into squares or circles 2 ½ to 3 inches. Place one tsp. of filling per square and pinch firmly to seal. Place on cookie sheet lined with damp tea towel and cover with one. Drop into pot of boiling water, keeping them from getting crowded. Stir gently. In 2 min. they will rise to the top. Boil another 2 min. Remove with slotted spoon and drain in colander. Place in bowl and drizzle with oil and flip to coat so they don’t stick together. Serve hot as is, broil or fry to crisp, top with bacon, onion, sour cream, undiluted mushroom soup or whatever you like. The Ukrainian centre are accepting $$ donations via etransfer at [email protected] Soon, they will start again receiving donations of medical supplies, hygiene products, diapers etc. Sometime soon they will be receiving refugees and will need more things when that happens. Please say a little prayer for the people of Ukraine.

BAKED HAM EASTER DINNER

$21.99 per person

519-668-3360 | 746 Wharncliffe Rd South | www.outnbackcatering.ca i n our Sweetened Pineapple Raisin Sauce, Scalloped Potatoes, Glazed Carrots, Apple Slaw, Dinner Roll & Butter Order ahead by April 12. Curbside pickup or delivery. Catering and Take-Out • Daily Lunch Specials! Order your fresh baked pies ($15.99) and don’t forget our famous butter tarts ($8.49)!

Page 4 Hyde Park – Oakridge Villager • March 2022

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Byron Villager

Belvedere Place Park Upgrade Belvedere Place Park, located at 457 Belvedere Place, is now due for an upgrade. This small neighbourhood park currently only has one basketball court. Amenities

Based on public feedback, improvements to this park include a community garden, a small play area, a swing set, and an accessible pathway. The existing basketball court is undersized and will be removed. In addition, benches and trees will be added to the park. Interested in participating in the neighbourhood-managed community garden? Please contact Becky Ellis, garden coordinator, at [email protected] Park Name Did you know that there is another park in London named Belvedere Park? We have decided not to change the name of Belvedere Place Park at this time. We are still accepting suggestions on what to rename Belvedere Place Park, if a meaningful name comes along in the future. Getinvolved.london.ca

Looking for some Magical Moments? Call Angela What is the best age to visit Walt Disney World? Why any age of course! People often think they want to wait until their child is old enough to remember the trip, but there is something magical when they still truly believe and that is something YOU will never forget. Tweens and Teens are now at the “age of not believing” but the thrill rides, treats and entertainment will put smiles on their faces! Adults only? Why not! The International Food and Wine Festival hosted every fall in EPCOT is one of the biggest events held at Walt Disney World. Family attractions, mini Broadway shows, Festivals, Concerts, Parades and Nightly Fireworks. Magical Moments are waiting for you. Let the Memories Begin!

Issue 69 - April 2022 Page 17

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