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Byron Villager Jan-Feb 2022

Byron

JAN/FEB 2022 ISSUE 67

Villager

Back in the day

Byron Villager Issue #67 Jan/Feb 2022 www.villagerpublications.com Publisher and Editor Barb Botten Villager Publications P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Graphic Artist – Jon Botten Photography – Nicole Fotia To advertise: 519-282-7262 or [email protected] We look foward to hearing from you!

Storybook’s Humpty Dumpty at the skating trail. See full story page 16 Photo Credit: Tracey Lord

Hame Factory and distillery after the 1883 flood in Byron. This was located roughly at the bottom of Halls Mill Rd.

Your 2021 Byron Villager lineup Thank you, Byron and please keep sending in story suggestions and photos through 2022

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Byron Villager

Smith apples, you like tart! Both salads were presented so lovely with the nuts on top, which is an unexpected change for take out! You can’t have Thai food and not have Pad Thai, so we started with a Shrimp Pad Thai, spice level 5. The spice was great, it was hot but not burning hot. I’d call it spicy hot. The shrimp were generous in quantity and had a nice crunch to them, cooked perfectly. The noodles were plentiful and the bean sprouts had a fresh crisp to them as well. Moving on we had the Chicken Pad Nut. It’s a stir fry with cashews, your choice of meat, we chose chicken but you might opt for beef or pork or shrimp, and we chose a spice level 4. It is served with freshly steamed rice and topped with cashews. The vegetables were very fresh, plentiful and crispy. The carrots were cut with such precision into this lovely flower like pattern, the cauliflower and broccoli were crunchy, not soggy like some stir fries out there. It was served in a clear smooth and tasty sauce, thicker than a broth but not gravy either. The dish also was presented beautifully considering it travelled in a paper bag, likely in a car moving quickly! Another great dish to add to our repertoire. All in all, I’d say we earnestly enjoyed our dishes. It is obvious that each dish was prepared with care, considering how busy they are. If you’ve not ordered from or eaten at Meesai Thai lately, my suggestion for you is to give it another try! All of these dishes we tried were great but they offer so much more, their menu has a wide variety of options. If you are gluten free, or have other intolerances, talk to the staff. They are well versed and will tell you what to stay away from.

Meesai Thai - You gotta eat here! Restaurant Review by Anne-Marie Bacon

Recently I was lucky enough to score dinner at Meesai Thai! If you’re a regular, you know what I mean. Over Covid they have struggled with the demand, some days having to turn down business unable to keep up. But they now have online ordering, you can go on the website meesaithai.com and pick a day/time and order to your heart’s content! It is simple to do. You can pick your sides, your entrée and your spice level! It’s a whole new world. We started with some delicious appetizers. First there was the fresh rolls, these are always a delight. The vegetables were fresh, the rice wrapper tender and not chewy and that cashew sauce that comes with it is so good, I think they should sell it by the jar. I’d be the first in line if they did! We’re off to a great start! Next up was the shrimp rolls, they are a shrimp wrapped in a crispy wrapper then deep fried and served with a peanut sauce. The shrimp were nice and crispy, the wrapper had great crunch and that peanut sauce was divine. If you’ve not had these, I highly recommend them. We then moved on to salads. We started with the mango salad, it’s a lovely combination of shredded mango, carrots and onions in a sweet dressing and topped with cashews and peanuts. It’s such a tangy mix of sweet and sour, I love it. Also a keeper! We tried the apple salad as well, it’s also thinly sliced green apples, shredded carrot with onion in a sweet dressing. Also very well done, a bit tart but if you like Granny

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Issue 67 - Jan/Feb 2022 Page 3

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While attending University, earning a degree in education, Angela worked summers at the Byron Teen Rec Centre on Norman Ave., an Optimists’ drop-in centre for teens and youth. Shealsobecame involved in a Pilot program supported by a government grant to help youth gain work experience. For this, she received a Youth Mentor Award.

Neighbour of Note – Angela Krohe Weir We have a vibrant and talented community and I’d like to continue to feature ‘Neighbours of Note’ in the Byron Villager. Please let me know about people in the community who have an interesting hobby, volunteering, Our January-February Neighbour of Note: Angela Krohe Weir. Angela loves Byron and has done wonderful things for the community. Her family moved here in 1972 and she attended St. George Elementary. There, she won an essay contest and wrote a monthly column for St. George in the Byron Connection. Later, she went to CCH and then to Oakridge to take their theatre program. Her Mom, Isabel, taught piano at Byron schools and won three Trillium Awards for her beautiful gardens. Her parents still live on Griffith St., a short walk from Angela’s family’s home. Like many young girls, Angela took ballet, tap, and jazz lessons from Judy Walters on North St. She worked a season at the Ski Hill (now Boler Mountain). hidden talent, or are just all-around great people. Barb Botten Barb@ villagerpublications.com

Angela met her husband, a Torontonian, at London’s Ribfest and says there was no question that they would settle in Byron. In 2014, Angela teamed up with realtor Scott Gunn to sponsor a skating party at Storybook Gardens. They coordinated with local businesses to create this event for free family fun and to take collections of food for the Byron Cares Food Bank. They had to skip 2020 because of the pandemic, but it was back on in 2021. As the owner of Pure Magic Vacations, Angela is a seasoned traveler who loves to get away and explore, but she says, “As much as travel is my business, there is nothing like coming back home to Byron”. Angela’s passion as a travel agent is serving people and making their dreams come true. She has always been based out of her

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For rest and relaxation, she certainly is a gem, so let’s give a cheer for the place we hold dear, Byron on the Thames. Thanks for all you do for the community of Byron, Angela!

home, so that didn’t change, during the pandemic but people tended to stay home in 2020 and much of 2021. Now, travel is picking up again and there are lots of bookings for 2022. Angela also sponsors local baseball teams. And like many people who give back to the community, she is quick to point out others who make contributions, too. As an example, she mentions Kevin Cook at Byron Pizza, for his “incredible, ongoing community support”. Another thing Angela loves about Byron is how connected the residents are to each other. There’s always someone who can lend a hand, and she is always willing to help, whether that’s offering advice about travel or supporting local

businesses, big and small. She also values the history of Byron and hopes it stays alive so future generations know about our roots. Angela thinks back fondly to a 1994 visit she and her children had with a senior at Sun Haven Nursing Home. The woman’s name was Bella and she was 102 years old. Angela still remembers by heart the little chant she learned from Bella. Byron, Byron that’s the place for me. There is everything there from A to Zee.

Photo thanks to Tracey Lord LeClairs

Husband Todd, son Charlie and Angela with Chip and Dale

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industry was another growth element for the business, as was the offering of paint correction and paint protection services – now big parts of overall operations. In fact, clients along Lake Huron, Port Lambton, Sarnia, Port Franks, Bayfield, Goderich, Rondeau Bay, Port Glasgow, Port Stanley, Long Point and Turkey Point keep the team at Andy’s Auto Detailing busy with a variety of services. A gift certificate from Andy’s Auto Detailing also makes a great present for any occasion. And with the demands of a hectic schedule eating up your own time, why not treat yourself to a showroom shine from Andy’s Auto Detailing? Your vehicle will thank you, and your family will appreciate more time spent with them as Andy’s Auto Detailing does the work for you in a timely, professional manner.

Andy’s Auto Detailing Celebrating 10 years of Showroom Shines

According to industry research, auto detailing is on the rise – and it only makes sense, given today’s busy families and demanding work schedules. Andy’s Auto Detailing assists motorists with not only keeping their vehicles sparkling clean, but also in accessing the most convenient of services – on site. Detailing of automobiles, motorcycles, boats, RVs and fleet vehicles are all offered as a mobile service – at your doorstep. “With everyone’s busy

lifestyle, we try to make it more convenient for them by bringing our service to the customer,” explained Andrew Graham, a Byron resident who loves his neighbourhood’s “great sense of community and small-town feeling.” Andy’s Auto Detailing provides fully-insured, on- site services with the use of a one-of-a-kind trailer equipped with water and hydro to complete any detailing need. Basic interior/exterior washes are offered, in addition to full detailing and showroom shines. Andy’s Auto Detailing is professional and affordable – and convenient. Entering the auto detailing industry was a perfect fit for Andy. “I have always been around vehicles, even at a young age,” he explained. “I managed a detailing shop prior to launching my own business. I realized that the

amount of time and inconvenience customers – families – faced. So, I wanted to solve those issues by bringing professional detailing services to them.” Andy’s Auto Detailing is celebrating 10 years in business this year. Andy said his business is growing with up to five employees servicing the entire Southwestern Ontario market with their expert detailing skills. The expansion into offering services to the marine

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Byron Villager

Simon Finds Some Friends

As we learned in last month’s episode, Byron’s Founder, Simon Zelotes Watson had been totally “ghosted” by Colonel Talbot to the extent that he became as much of a disruptive force as he could in the settlement. But, in reality, the temper of the time was much larger than the animosity of these two men. To understand the larger picture, it is necessary to look at the way the district was settled initially. The Loyalists were quite familiar with the centralized British system of control resting in the hands of the landed gentry. Governor Simcoe had set it up that way in the hope that half-pay officers (such as Talbot) would form this landed gentry. Simcoe, a veteran of the American Revolution, was no fan of Republican principles but he did recognize the superiority of the American settler in taming the land. He encouraged them to emigrate with free land. They came in droves. The problem was that these “later Loyalists” brought with them the tradition of local administration rooted in the Puritan “town hall” concept. As long as these settlements remained widely-scattered communities separated by impenetrable forests, the friction was small. The settlers, for the most part, were so absorbed in wrestling with the frontier that they didn’t much care whose flag flew over them. King and parliament seemed pretty remote in the backwoods. But frontier life tends to cater to the unruly and the lowest common denominator of civilization’s niceties. As these communities grew and produced ambitious men, this “self-levelling” spirit eventually challenged the authority of the British and Loyalist-Tory administrators. On the first Monday of March, the townships held elections under the supervision of the district Courts of Quarter Sessions for minor local offices such as wardens, clerks, collectors, assessors, pound keepers and overseers of

highways. These township meetings were basically a crumb tossed to democratic principles. Appointments for the higher local offices tended to go to known Anglican Loyalists rather than Methodist non-Loyalists such as the millers, blacksmiths, tavernkeepers, preachers etc. who formed the majority. It seemed impossible to break through this power structure. One can see how this might rankle ambitious men. One such man was Andrew Westbrook, (1773-1835) the local alpha male in Delaware. Born in America of Dutch Reform parents, he was a land speculator who at 42 was the richest man in the district, having accumulated over 4,000 acres. He was elected overseer of highways. Plum jobs such as magistrate went to Talbot’s man, Daniel Springer (1763-1826), a Loyalist-Tory as well as a land speculator. This was no mere rivalry. Springer and Westbrook hated each other. Westbrook felt blocked in every way by Talbot.

In addition, the power structure had to reckon with the likes of Ebenezer Allan who was in and out of goal in those days on what he considered to be trumped-up charges. It was not hard for Simon to find allies. The powder keg was set. All it needed was a spark. (To be continued.)

Issue 67 - Jan/Feb 2022 Page 7

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Commissioners and Boler – Main Intersection of Byron On the Southwest corner of Commissioners and Boler, once the site of Merriam’s blacksmith shop is now the site of the Bank of Montreal. On the Northwest corner of Commissoners and Boler was the site of McMillan’s Tavern built in 1810 and run by Archibald McMillan, one of the area’s first settlers when the area was known as Westminster. Later, this location was the Fortner Hotel run by Jonas Fortner when the town was called Hall Mills. Today it is the site of Byron Automotive run by Wayne Howie. Munch Bars by Judi Walters – Taken from the Art of Cooking in Byron (early 80s) ¼ cup of margarine 1 cup of nuts, soy nuts 4 cups mini marshmallows ½ cup wheat germ ½ teaspoon vanilla ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup of rolled oats 1 cup of bran Into a large pot measure butter and marshmallows. Stir constantly over medium heat until melted. Remove from heat and stir in all remaining ingredients. Mix well. With moistened hands, press into greased 9x13 inch pan. Chill in the fridge. Cut into bars.

Looking west on Commissioners Road from the Boler Road intersection c1910

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Byron Villager

PORCHUK IN THE ZONE ARTICLE CONTINUED

remodeling instead of being on vacation. In October of this year, she decided to go on her own and launched Nicole Leak Designs working with a local contracting company London Renovations for a “we take care of everything” approach to home design and renovations. And as if she weren’t busy enough, Nicole, whose slogan is, Design Doctor – changing your life one room at a time, is writing a coffee table design book. “Design with Nicole” is due for release in late 2022.

Love Your Home Again! If there was an award for someone with the deepest ties to the Byron community, Nicole Leak would be the winner.

Her grandfather William (Jack) Leak was a WW2 veteran, who owned the Byron Hardware and Electric store. Her parents, Wendy and Bill met in Grade 8 at Byron

Southwood. The family lived on Byron Blvd., the same street her dad grew up on. She attended Byron Northview and her brother’s name is Byron. Now, as an Interior Designer, her company, Nicole Leak Designs is serving the people of Byron and greater London. Nicole says she’s wanted to be an interior designer since the age of seven. “When they asked in school every year what you wanted to be when you grew up, I always said Interior Designer.” PEGGY SATLER AD

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Her father is a carpenter/drywaller which inspired Nicole to pursue her dream. She graduated with Honours Bachelor of Interior Design degree and has a passion for historic structures. Nicole not only assists with furniture selections but completes full floorplan working drawings, elevations and 3D renderings in her design and selections packages. Nicole was working for a large downtown London design firm but once the pandemic hit, people were staying home with time to do

519-670-8934 [email protected] Instagram: nicoleleakdesigns | Facebook: Nicole Leak Designs www.nicoleleakdesigns.com NICOLE LEAK, PRINCIPAL DESIGNER

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To advertise here please contact [email protected] Issue 9 • May 2017 Page 9 To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

Issue 67 - Jan/Feb 2022 Page 9

FROM THE VAULT

“My services are offered to anyone,” said Chevalier, “and I am looking forward to adding more clients who would like to try nail art, which is truly my speciality. I love the fact that I can provide a wide array of services, and I love them all. Creating an atmosphere where my clients can feel very relaxed, comfortable and happy with their services is something I strive to offer each and every day. But manicures – in particular when clients add nail art – are my favourites.” Behind every successful entrepreneur is a supportive family, and that certainly holds true for Chevalier. Her father grew up in Lambeth, and her mother in Vancouver. Her sister will graduate fromWestern University this spring. Said Chevalier, “They have all been very supportive in everything I have done, and they are behind me 100-per-cent at Kara Esthetics. “I love working in Byron,” she added. “It’s a small community within a large city, and the community – like my family – are very supportive and always friendly. I am thrilled to have a growing business involving wonderful regular clients, and a lot of new ones. I’m also very thankful for the referral business from Shear Experience.” As for the future, Chevalier looks forward to growing her business and to improving her already impressive esthetics skills while working within the friendly confines of Byron.

Kara Esthetics Calls Friendly Byron Home The COVID-19 pandemic has seen many young entrepreneurs launch their own small businesses, thanks to their fresh ingenuity and creative spirits. Kara Chevalier, owner/operator of Kara Esthetics in Byron, is one of those young businesspeople who have taken their passion to the marketplace during a time when we all need some good news.

Chevalier, 21, of Delaware launched her esthetics business in July 2021 and continues to operate within the well-established Shear Experience Aveda Salon at 328 Glenrose Drive. A former Oakridge Secondary School student and graduate with honours in esthetics from Elegance Schools Inc. in London, Chevalier specializes in hand-painted nail art, illustrated beautifully at her Facebook and Instagram pages. “After graduating from Elegance, I worked at a spa for a few months, but unfortunately I lost my job due to the pandemic. I spent some time working on my esthetics skills, with help from my mom and sister. But it was difficult finding a job. So, I decided to look for my own place of business and was fortunate enough to find room at Shear Experience,” Chevalier explained. In addition to creating beautiful hand-painted nail art for her growing clientele, she offers manicures, gel polish and structure gel manicures, pedicures, facial waxing – eyebrows, chin and upper lip, plus eyelash and eyebrow tinting, and eyelash lifts.

A row of new houses on the eastern outskirts of Lambeth, May 195 or $10,000, the homes we e inte ded for owners who worked in Lon th “cou try”. In 1950, L mbeth boasted 700 residents.

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p a g s . s d l . s r

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To advertise here please contact [email protected] Page 4 Lambeth Villager • March 2021

Other major partners our annual campaign include Tim Hortons, Remark Market, Loblaws Superstore, Walmart, LCBO, Shoppers, and The Beer Store. Many thanks them for assisting every year. Last but not least, it is the Byron-Springbank Legion volunteers that drive our annual Poppy Campaigns. Our volunteers manned the Costco table for over 50 two hour shifts and Poppy Captains who distributed 800 poppy boxes to over 300 businesses in West London. We also distributed poppies to the 41 Public and Separate schools in our area. Our area stretches from Wortley Village in the east to Riverbend in the west, from Southdale Road North to Fanshawe Road.

Successful 2021 Poppy Campaign Once again, thanks to the generosity of Londoners, the Byron-Springbank Legion’s 2021 Poppy Campaign was remarkably successful. Even though we are still fighting of the Covid-19 pandemic, we surpassed last year’s total by almost $5,000. By the end of Novembers, our 2021 Poppy Donations total reached $55,860.50 this year. An additional $10,600 was donated by the Lambeth Lions on 15 Dec 2021 from their Lawn Poppy Program. That brought the 2021 total to $66,460.50. We would like to express thanks to several organizations that presented donation cheques directly to the Branch: Ironstone Built. - $2,500.00 on 9 Nov 2021

Davey’s Trees for Vets - $1,459.00 on 10 Nov 2021 Lambeth Lions Club - $10,600.00 on 15 Dec 2021

Along with all the businesses in West London, that allowed our volunteers to place our Poppy boxes on their counters, we would like to especially that London North Costco for allowing us to man a table in their lobby for the 10 days, 1-10 November, during the heart of the Poppy Campaign. Again, Costco patrons were very generous, donating just over $13,000 this year.

The Lambeth Lions with the assistance of the East London Lions, sold several thousand lawn Poppies all over London, over the summer and fall. They made a profit of $42,400 which has been distributed to the four London Legions (Lambeth, Victory, Vimy and Byron).

January

February

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 533 Byron-Springbank

2022 All PATRONS MUST BE FULLY VACCINATED/MASKS REQUIRED

1276 Commissioners Rd. W. Phone 519-472-3300

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4 A re you 60 years or older? o you have trouble remembering things? 4 Do not have Alzheimer’s Disease? ero-Odasso invites you to take part in a physical exercise at may help to improve your memory and mobility. e information, contact (519) 685 4292 ext. 42179 all in, you will be asked questions about your memory and th. If eligible, you will be invited to visit the Gait & Brain Lab at nstitute, 550 Wellington Road South, London, Ontario. Pamper Yours lf! Gift Certificates Avail ble!

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Hyde Park - Oakridge Villager • June 2021 • Page 9

Holiday Season Catering! Home and Office Parties. Hors d’oeuvres Trays. Home-made heat and serve Turkey Dinners 24.99 pp Served family style with all the trimmings

Order your fresh baked pies and butter tarts!

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To advertise here please contact [email protected] To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

Page 12 Byron Villager Page 6 Wortley Villager • November 2021

REFLECTIONS of a City Councillor. As we enter a new year, I find myself reflecting on where I have been and where I am today. I have been an activist for more than 30 years involved in the community, especially when it comes to city planning decisions. Often those who enter politics come from an activist perspective and hope to guide and change whatever the current political direction at the legislative level they are seeking. When elected to Council, I had to learn right away to be ambidextrous, that it wasn’t nearly as easy as I thought it might be. I have had to learn how to support concerns from residents while at the same time representing the Corporation of the City of London. I have often used the phrase “wearing two hats”. With over 100 services provided by the City to the public it is Council’s responsibility to determine the direction of the many vital plans and processes that make a city successful. Others enter politics from the perspective of the business community. These representatives too have valid outlooks that must also be taken into consideration. At all levels of government keeping budgets manageable to be able to deliver the necessary services required by residents, businesses, and institutions in London and across the province and country means elected officials are deciding on difficult choices, choices that have impacts not just in the short-term but long-term affecting future generations. Still others come from a social perspective, reflecting the needs of our underserved communities, and they bring important views and often lived experience that not all of us have experienced. Striving to work towards a common goal to make life better for all, they work to ensure that everyone has a political voice. I am delighted to see women stepping forward bringing their unique perspective to our decisions and encourage more to take this step. One of the wonderful things about Canada is our diversity, allowing us to offer so many different skills, perspectives, and ideas, elected or not. It is an honour every day to work alongside colleagues, staff, and experts at the municipal level as well as with my work at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario at the provincial level to guide policy decisions. While we don’t always agree I thank every one of them for being willing to serve their communities and bringing their viewpoints.

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

It takes motivation to learn, listen, and a good dose of common sense to be open to multiple views to arrive at the best decision I can make. During these times of uncertainty due to the pandemic we have all been faced with new decisions to make, adapting to an ever- changing work landscape while trying to balance our personal lives. These challenges won’t end with the end of the pandemic but will continue as our city continues to grow.

Best wishes for 2022 to all! Please continue to reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns at 226-927-

0439, e-mail me at ahopkins@london. ca, or visit my website to get the latest information at www.annahopkins.ca. Peace and Joy, Stay Safe and Stay Strong.

The Monkeys In My Dreams is a memoir style book of stories that cross generations, stories that prove in spite of trauma, we can overcome, we can be kind and loving, we can be forgiving! Forgiveness equals healing. My mother and I had a Sunday morning phone call. It was our special time, Mom with her coffee and me with my tea, we’d cover all the minutiae of

our week then I’d get my history lesson. At times I was appalled; this was my family history, our legacy! Contact Anne-Marie Bacon, the author to purchase a book locally in Byron. You can reach her at annemariebacon@ hotmail.com or it’s available on Amazon.

Issue 67 - Jan/Feb 2022 Page 13

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community with nearby medical services and personal services, retail shops and more. Book your tour today at LiveatRiverstone.ca, call us at 519-474- 4410, or email [email protected]. Together, we’ll find your perfect new home at Riverstone.

Riverstone Retiree Apartments You’ve Earned It

Dine on the rooftop with friends, shake your hips at a hula dancing class, and explore the great outdoors with your new walking group. Is this how you pictured your retirement? Well, you’ve earned it. At Riverstone Retiree Apartments there is a whole lot to look forward to, and time is on your side. Get used to a warm greeting from your trusted Concierge, in a community where friendship begins at the front door. Here, you’ll spend your days doing what you love most, with limitless opportunities to connect with your like-minded neighbours. “The connections that we see forming each day are quite heartwarming,” says Sheri Lynn Koenig, general manager at Riverstone. “Many of our new residents come seeking companionship, and are surprised at how quickly they find themselves connecting with others. Some meet daily in our beautiful social lounge, some enjoy friendly competition over a game of cards, and some have even coordinated group events to showcase their unique talents and hobbies.” Best of all, residents of Riverstone can enjoy first-class amenities safely under one roof. Peace of mind is built-in with a retiree lifestyle designed by Sifton Properties. Quite simply, we are your trusted retirement advisor, with years of experience providing a lifestyle designed to promote healthy, active living. As the snow flies and opportunities to get out and about lessen, now is the perfect time to book your private, in-person tour, and explore model suites and outstanding amenities at Riverstone – you’ll feel like you’ve entered a hotel! Choose from one bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, two bedroom and two-bedroom plus den suites with soaring ceilings, walnut woodgrain cabinetry, quartz countertops, walk-in showers, private balconies and more. Riverstone also provides peace of mind, with suite-controlled building entry and secure underground parking. Designed with energy efficiency in mind, all suites feature LED lighting, a master “all-off” light switch, individually-controlled heating and cooling, five ENERGY STAR® rated appliances, and noise reducing double glazed windows. Beyond your suite, your Riverstone Club Membership includes on-site Concierge services, a fitness studio, social and games lounges, a roof top garden lounge and patio, complimentary culinary experiences, and bi-weekly housekeeping services. In addition, Riverstone is nestled in West 5, a growing walkable

NOW LEASING!

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

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Warm up with some Roasted Carrot Soup This is a light and healthy soup and budget-friendly too. It’s a great way to get some veggies in and keep you warm on a cold winters day. This soup keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for about four days, or for several months in the freezer.

Ingredients · 2 pounds carrots · 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided · ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt, divided, to taste · 1 medium yellow onion, chopped · 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced · ½ teaspoon ground coriander · ¼ teaspoon ground cumin · 4 cups vegetable broth (or water) · 2 cups water · 1 to 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, to taste · 1 ½ teaspoons lemon juice, to taste · Freshly ground black pepper, to taste Instructions · Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, if desired. · To prepare your carrots, peel them and then cut them on the diagonal so each piece is about ½ inches thick at the widest part. · Place the carrots on the baking sheet. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil and ½ teaspoon of the salt. Toss until the carrots are lightly coated in oil and seasonings. Arrange them in a single layer. · Roast the carrots until they’re caramelized on the edges and easily pierced through by a fork, 25 to 40 minutes, tossing halfway. (Heirloom

carrot varieties will roast in as little as 25 minutes, but regular carrots are more dense and typically require 35 to 40 minutes.) · Once the carrots are almost done roasting, in a Dutch oven or soup pot, warm the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion and ¼ teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and turning translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. · Add the garlic, coriander and cumin. Cook until fragrant while stirring constantly, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Pour in the vegetable broth and water, while scraping up any browned bits on the bottom with a wooden spoon or sturdy silicone spatula. · Add the roasted carrots to the pot when they are out of the oven. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, to give the flavors time to meld. · Once the soup is done cooking, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer the hot soup to a blender, working in batches if necessary. · Add the butter, lemon juice and several twists of black pepper. Blend until completely smooth. Add additional salt and pepper if necessary, to taste. Add another tablespoon of butter if

you’d like more richness. · Blend again, and serve.

Employee of the Month November

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.

Alyssa Lamkin

Sophia Brawn

Issue 67 - Jan/Feb 2022 Page 15

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london.ca/groups/family-and-childrens-programs. You can also learn more at the Storybook Gardens Facebook page at https:// www.facebook.com/storybooklondon/, and the park’s Instagram page at https://www.instagram.com/storybookgardens/. Admission to the skating trail is $3.50 for children and $4.50 for adults. A limited quantity of skate rentals are available on site for $6.50 per pair. Youngsters age 2 and under are admitted free of charge, but still need to be registered in order to adhere to park capacity compliance. Strollers and wheelchairs are permitted. Don’t miss out on this winter wonderland experience at Storybook Gardens, winner of numerous accolades including Best Tourist Attraction four years running as selected by readers of The London Free Press in its Best of London poll.

Storybook Gardens Skating Trail A Winter Wonderland Since 1958, Storybook Gardens has provided London families with a magical setting – right in their own backyard. The mystic journey for folks of all ages continues this winter with the 250-metre outdoor skating trail, which launched in 2004 and winds its way through Storybook Gardens’ play village. It’s open each week Tuesday through Sunday, and is available until the end of February – or later, depending on what Mother Nature offers us this season. A storybook-themed outdoor park owned and operated by the City of London Parks and Recreation Department, Storybook Gardens has provided generations of Londoners and visitors with a lifetime of memories. Open year round, the theme park provides a fun day of play and learning for families with young children. Summer adventures include several outdoor play structures, amusement rides, a large splash pad, a sand and water play area, plus music and dance at an outdoor stage. The fun continues this winter as families lace up their skates and wind their way through the park along the skating trail, which provides a special photo opportunity with none other than Humpty Dumpty. The Beavertails concession located rink side serves hot pastry tails, fries and hot and cold beverages. New this year is the beaver dog, a delicious hotdog wrapped in a beaver tail pastry. Currently, all admission to Storybook Gardens requires pre- registration – visit https://www.storybook.london.ca/ for the link. Programs and activities are limited by occupancy. For a full list of winter skate trail rules and hours, visit https://www.storybook. Hy e Park-Oakridge Villager Issu 57 Jan ary 2022 www.villagerpubli ations.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] m 519-282-7262 Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood New

Winter Skate Tail at Stybook Gardens Register your time online at: www.cityoflondon.perfectmind.com For more information call: 519-661-5770 www.storybook.london.ca Private trail rentals are available

arts, entrepreneurs, business, ourhood people and passion to d to advertise. The 100% locally en times a year with thousands ur local market. F VILLAGER! villagerpublications.com e London Public Library

Page 16 C runiCan esH Local b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE yrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE runiCan H Loc l Byron Villager b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE e Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar uts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE www.buffysellshomes.com • 519.668.8577 Putting the REAL into Realtor® Your Neighbourhood Specialist

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it would be to have a restaurant in Byron and to be part of such a great community. And again, as fate has it, there was a spot in the exact plaza he was working in that was available and he jumped on the opportunity as quickly as he could. As a family who’s been involved in the restaurant business for so long, we were extremely excited with his proposal to get back into it and from there our journey began,” Faezeh explained. The family find it important to include local ingredients on their menu. Fresh beef is sourced from a London butcher and is 100% halal beef from an Ontario farmer. Burger buns come from a local bakery, and produce is sourced from local growers. As well, the family embraces area residents – and in turn, they are showing their love for Leo’s Pizza & Grill. “We try our best to support the Byron community by hiring as many people from the area,” Faezeh explained. “The teenagers from the Byron area who we have hired are absolutely amazing. They brighten up our restaurant with their smiles, their laughs and their jokes, and their ability to learn quickly, work hard and bring a service to our customers that I’m sure makes everybody in Byron proud of them. “Byron feels like a village in the heart of a busy city,” she added. “The community is absolutely fantastic. The community initiatives that are constantly happening, and our ability to stand strong together during a pandemic – nobody can really understand what ‘Byron Strong’ means until you are a part of this wonderful, strong, tight-knit community.” Leo’s Pizza & Grill will continue to offer seasonal specials, new freshly-made, homemade fare and new menu offerings in the heart of Byron. It’s a winning formula, delivered with TLC.

Byron Loves Leo’s Pizza & Grill Whena familygathers toshow their love, an entire community benefits from this energy. At Leo’s Pizza & Grill at 1304 Commissioners Road West in Byron, residents have embraced great food, fun and family values from a new restaurant already winning rave reviews. In fact, Leo’s Pizza & Grill’s winning formula stems from decades of industry experience, plus old-fashioned family values. The family – a Kurdish clan with

The family (L-R) Hamid Ataei (Father), Faezeh Oladi, Damon Ataei, Ryan Ataei

parents from Iran – opened Leo’s Pizza & Grill in September 2021. Hamid, a general contractor who has been involved in the construction of over 200 restaurants in Ontario, built the new Byron restaurant from scratch. His wife, Faezeh, supervises the pizza kitchen, using her 25 years of restaurant experience while making dough from scratch, creating a signature pizza sauce and cooking pizzas. Their son, Damon, a recent Western University graduate, manages the restaurant while engaging customers and keeping ideas fresh. And their son, Ryan, uses his expert grill skills to create a terrific lineup of wings, fries, chops and salads. According to Faezeh, as Hamid was part of the construction crew building a pharmacy in the same Commissioners Road West plaza, “He began to fall in love with Byron. He couldn’t believe that there was such a strong community feeling within in our large city of London. As time went by, he couldn’t help but think how much fun

WALK IN SPECIALS

Pizzas Burgers Sides Panzerotti

Medium 1 topping $5.99 Large 1 topping $6.99 X-Large 1 topping $8.99 Slice & Drink $3 after tax! 2 Slice & Drink $5 after tax!

Nachos & More!

Gluten Free Halal & Vegan Available

519-913-6666

1304 COMMISSIONERS RD W BYRON

Issue 67 - Jan/Feb 2022 Page 17

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Memories of Byron by Ron Jackson Ron Jackson, former Byronite, fondly remembers growing up in Byron and recounts some of his memories. Recently, I became aware of ‘The Villager’ – Byron in particular, since I grew up in Byron. I went to Southwood, Westminster S.S. and later on, Beal-Art which used to be a separate school before the high school. I’ve always been into art. I found the sketches I did on location, years ago, on the “Guy Lombardo Bridge”. It reminded me on a few incidents. Around 20 years ago, in my forties, I drove 3 blind seniors around to CNIB meetings in Port Huron, Oneida, etc. One of them said that during WWII he worked at Wonderland Gardens on dance night. His job was to stop women from dancing together.

Another time, the rock group “Emerson, Lake and Palmer” played there. My friend and I jumped the fence and snuck in. We milled around for a while until the band came on stage. I remember Keith Emerson sat at his keyboard and strapped himself in. Right then my friend said “We have to go to work now.” So, we left. His father, who usually cleaned Westmount Mall at night, had recently had a heart attack. My friend had asked if I would help him clean the mall for a few weeks and I agreed. Who knew E.L.P would be playing the night I started. I’ll finish with a quote. “I’m always most religious on a sunshining day.” - Lord Byron

As a boy, I remember going to Wonderland to swim and goof around. It cost 5¢ on the bus from Byron. It cost 10¢ to go right Downtown London. I remember there were 3 on street car change rooms. One for girls, one for boys and one to check your basket or clothes. I remember the snack bar by the band shell. Years later, Wonderland still had music and dances. I remember seeing various bands there from ‘Grant Smith’, ‘Manadala’ to ‘E.L.P’, ‘Deep Purple’, ‘Uriah Heep’ and ‘Savoy Brown Blues Band’ with players there 2 years in a row. There were others that I didn’t see.

Aerial photo of Wonderland Gardens 2003 LFP Files A camping area known as Wonderland was established in 1890. In 1935 it became Wonderland Summer Gardens. In the following years an enclosed dance area and swimming pool were added. The Guy Lombardo bridge was opened in November 1978.

“Guy Lombardo Bridge” 1983 “I sat in my van in the ‘Wonderland’ parking lot to do this. It was on plain, pulp paper and went a bit wrinkly. All I had with me at the time and I still have it.” Ron Jackson

Back in those teen years, my best friend was Keith Whittaker, who was English and after seeing ‘Savoy Brown’s concert, we went to the snack bar and ran into them in person. My friend talked to them a bit and asked “whatever happened to Chris Youlden? (Their singer on 3+ albums). One of them replied “I’m not sure, I think he’s a dustman”.

At Forest Hill London, we offer an individualized approach to your property with integrated marketing and technology insights for a more customized experience. We have made it our mission to provide each client with the most personalized client services in the industry.

151 York Street, London, ON N6A 1AB Office: 519-574-9300

www.foresthilllondon.com [email protected] WHAT’S YOUR HOME WORTH? CALL US TO FIND OUT!

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Byron Villager