Ilderton Villager December 2021

Ilderton Villager December 2021

Ilderton Villager and area

December 2021 Issue 11

Ilderton Villager Issue #11 December 2021 www.villagerpublications.com Publisher: Barb Botten P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Managing Editor and Advertising: Tami Martin: 519-851-0961 or [email protected] Contributors Cathy Wood: Graphic Artist Rick Young: Writer

Jeff and Nancy Vanleeuwen invite all to view the 2021 Christmas light display at their Songbird Lane home. The lights are on Monday to Thursday 5:30-9pm and until 10pm Friday to Sunday. They are accepting donations for the Ailsa Craig & Area Food Bank. Last year, 7,000 lbs of food were collected! Can we beat that this year?

Holiday display at Bloomers Family Farm Christmas Gift Barn. See more on pages 8 – 9.

Happy 1st Anniversary Ilderton & Area Villager! Has it been a year already? They say time flies when you’re having fun, and it sure was a fun year with the Ilderton and area Villager magazine! We hope you enjoyed the articles showcasing local artisans and entrepreneurs, service organizations and small businesses, along with some local history. I certainly learned a lot about this amazing community this past year, and all of us at Villager Publications want to sincerely thank everyone for their support. It is always appreciated! We were saddened to by the loss of Eric Dumigan and would like to express our sympathies to his family and friends, and to the aviation world. We were grateful for the opportunity to get to know Eric and feature him and his work in the April 2021 Ilderton and Area Villager.

I would love to hear from you with ideas for future articles, so please let me know who and what you’d like to read about in your community magazine in 2022. I am always open to new ideas and suggestions. How about sharing your favourite recipe, or do you have a neighbour who started a new business, or has an art hobby? Don’t be shy, please send them to me. As we head into a new year, take a moment to reflect on all the good experiences you had in 2021. Although it was another difficult year for many due to the pandemic, there is usually something good in any situation. To quote my grandfather (again): “What’s good about it?” It is a wonderful way to look at things, and keep you focused with a positive attitude. Please remember to support your local businesses, especially during this holiday season, I know first-hand how much they appreciate your support! I wish you all a happy holiday and new year, as we look forward to a prosperous 2022, be safe and enjoy your time with family and friends!

Ilderton Villager and area

December 2021 Issue 11

All the best of the holiday season!

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Page 2 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2021

Ilderton Outdoor Christmas Market – A Time To Celebrate Community and the Festive Season by Rick Young The success of the Ilderton Farmers Market and a desire to bring the local community together provided the inspiration for the first ever Ilderton Outdoor Christmas Market, being held on Saturday, December 4th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm in the town’s Municipal Parking Lot. “We were seeking a safe, fun, local event where we can connect with our neighbours. We have really missed events in the last year and wanted to get back to seeing people again,” says Jean Coles of the Ilderton and Area Business Association (IABA), the group that is organizing the event. “We also saw that our Farmers Market was receiving many applications for booth rentals from local artisans, and we didn’t have the space for them.” “We have tried to channel a European Christmas Market vibe – complete with wooden toys, homemade goods, entertainment and twinkling lights. The only thing we will be missing is the mulled wine because of the red tape to acquire a liquor license,” says Jean. Local vendors were chosen, and for many of them it will be their first market. “In addition to local, we wanted to keep the products focused on homemade gifts and avoid too many of the same types of items,” says Jean. The Market will offer a myriad of locally produced gifts – things like traditional wooden toys for children, jams and jellies that make great stocking stuffers for any foodie, upcycled festive crafts and antiques, homemade cosmetics, hand poured candles, artisan cutting boards, and homespun ornaments. “You will be able to find something for everyone on your Christmas list,” says Jean. Food and drinkwill be available. The Ilderton Lionswill be serving up warm cinnamon and sugar sprinkled beaver tails, while J. Bogal Foods will be offering their scrumptious pierogies. Sweet Gingy Treats will have traditional German velvety gingerbread. “And, if that isn’t enough, Cream Beanery Café will be serving up coffee, hot chocolate and apple cider” says Jean. “Sunshine Cake Studio, another Farmers Market vendor, will have their delicious cake pops and treats for sale. Black Sombrero, a staple vendor at our Farmers Market, will be selling their cured meat – Artisan Sausages and Mexican Chorizo.” The Market will go ahead come rain and/or snow. All vendors will be under tents, but organizers advise market-goers to dress appropriately for the weather.

The IABA hopes the Outdoor Christmas Market will be a success and become an annual event. “It is so important to have local events that bring our community together. It makes us stronger and healthier,” says Jean. “Well attended local events will also bring more events to Ilderton.” Market-goers are encouraged to get into the festive spirit by wearing their best ugly Christmas sweaters and bringing a canned good to support the Ailsa Craig Food Bank “There will be fire bowls to warm yourself at and enjoy your hot cocoa and smores, and we are hoping to spot Santa at some point,” adds Jean. Ilderton Outdoor Christmas Market Vendors: 1. 1886 Farmhouse – Holli Reichert 2. Black Sombrero – Alberto Estrada 3. Chalk Couture – Stephanie Isabel 4. Chop Saw Soap & Body Co., – Naomi Finch 5. Cream Beanery Cafe – Kim Nunez 6. Cutting Boards by the Wilson Boys – Bruce Wilson 7. Earth + Honeybee – Melissa & Adam 8. The Hawk’s Den – Jodi Hawkins 11. Knit ‘n Sip Gal/Fobs & Hobs/CCQ Creations – Stephanie McCallum/Star Boersma/Christy Quick 12. Mountain Horse Designs – Denise Tahk 13. Myarts Designs – Joanne Devereau Aarts 14. Paper and Wood Crafts – Liz Urdaneta 15. Perfectly Imperfect Creations, Crystal McGill 16. Sauyunan Handicrafts – Elizabeth Russel 17. Skilled Accents Incorporated, Kay Habib 18. Sunshine Cake Studio – Lisa Engels 19. Sweet Gingy Treats – Jenny Burns 20.Vintage Secrets – Jacquie Patrick 21. Wood Toys by Gord/From My Garden – Nancy and Gord Abra 9. Ilderton Lions 10. J. Bogal Foods

All the best of the holiday season

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December 2021 • Page 3

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Christmas At Bear Creek School by John Caverhill

Preparations for our school concert began in the latter half of November when parts for plays and recitations were assigned to each pupil. The older pupils tried to act nonchalant, but the whole school was bubbling with excitement. During the first week of December, an event almost as exciting as the concert itself occurred when the stage platform was installed. It consisted of five large, inverted plank boxes placed side-by-side on top of the low permanent platform that extended across the front of the classroom. This made a concert stage about four meters deep and about half a meter high. A couple of steps on the front led from the classroom floor to the giddy heights of theatrical fame. Each year, when this stage was first installed, our poor teacher endured – with great patience – a constant parade of pupils wanting (I won’t say needing) to sharpen pencils. Accessing the pencil sharpener necessitated mounting the steps crossing the platform and kneeling to sharpen your pencil, as the wall- mounted sharpener was now only knee high. As long as one didn’t make too many trips out, the teacher said nothing, but she might point out that a fourth trip was a little too much, especially it is was not even noon yet. Being basically an empty box, the stage, if stepped upon smartly with heels, produced a hollow resonant clomp that was particularly satisfying to us. Our teacher wisely pressed the issue no more than necessary, and the novelty had worn off by the second day. Now practices began in earnest, with the early hours taken up with minor things: spelling, arithmetic and Christmas exams. But by early afternoon these irritating trivialities were swept

aside, and the day’s real business began. Plays, recitations, songs and marching drills were all rehearsed. Musical numbers were concentrated upon when the music teacher made her weekly visit. Props and costumes were prepared. Farmhouse closets and attics were an amazing source of old-style clothing and even furniture if required. While a number was being practised, those who were not included would carry on with science or social studies notes. One barely had time to shoot a spit ball at the girl two rows over because she had stuck out her tongue at you. Besides, the minute one number was finished, your play was next. With a total school population of only two dozen, a concert lasting well over an hour meant you were either on stage or hurrying to be ready for your next number. With red and green tissue streamers, wreaths, bells and children’s Christmas artwork everywhere, the schoolroom assumed a festive atmosphere that was enhanced when the green stage curtains were hung. The crowning glory, a tall spruce Christmas tree, would be brought in one week before the concert so it could be decorated by two dozen pairs of eager and willing hands. The concert, an evening affair held during the last week before holidays, would finally arrive. We would be jittering with nerves and happy excitement. When I was 11 years old, I started taking piano lessons. Because of more pressing issues such as maple syrup season, baseball, etc., the lessons lasted only a year and a half – just long enough for me to perform at one Christmas concert. I was so nervous I could hardly think of anything else. I just wanted to get it over and done with! When my number was announced, I tore between the curtains, launched myself from the top step and in three strides I was seated at the piano, striking the first notes and giving the audience time for only a brief chuckle at my flying entrance. I performed my two numbers without any glitches, although my interpretation regarding phrasing and dynamics may have been questionable. After the final note, I gave the expected bow and

Seasons Greetings! Thank you Ilderton for all your support in 2021.

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Page 4 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2021

retired at a more sedate pace, but I certainly wasn’t hanging around for an encore. Afterward, I received quite a ribbing from both family and friends about my version of the Minute Waltz, but I didn’t mind. I had survived the experience without getting my fingers tangled up in the keys. A couple of weeks before the concert, the teacher and all of the pupils would draw names for a gift exchange. It was an exciting time, spiced with tantalizing hints as to whose name you drew or who had drawn yours. The evening’s performance concluded with everyone singing the National Anthem (God Save the King at the time). Now came the event that had had by far the biggest impact on all of the younger children: Santa Claus made his grand entrance! A loud stamping of feet accompanied by “Ho! Ho! Ho!” and Santa himself would be standing in the doorway! The older kids who were ‘in the know’ always tried to guess the identity of the current Santa. The younger kids simply stared in awe at this wonderful mystical being. This was still during an era when Santa Claus was a magical figure who avoided the spotlight. Indeed, young children knew they had to be in bed fast asleep or Santa wouldn’t stop at their house. Television, with its endless hawking of Christmas that lasted from Halloween to the New Year, was still to come in the future. Back then, Santa Claus was a mystical figure who appeared only at Christmas and promptly vanished to that remote storybook place called the North Pole until the following December. Our present Santa would distribute all the gifts, including a little bag of candy and an orange, to each youngster, including preschoolers. He would turn to the door and announced that his reindeer were ready for the big night. Then, with a final, “Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas everyone!” he was gone.

After exchanging lots of best wishes for the Season with all our neighbours, and after offering compliments to our teacher for another good concert, we would make our way home. We had all – young and old – enjoyed the concert. And, Christmas Day was just a few sleeps away. Life couldn’t have been any better. Photos (MCA 2021.00312): Christmas Concert at S.S. 8 London Township, also known as Hughes’ School.

John Caverhill is the younger son of the late Ernest Caverhill and Susie Boyd of Lobo Township. John’s writings often reflect his experiences and observations of growing up on the family farm, attending the one room school, S. S. No. 7 Lobo (Bear Creek School), and Vanneck United Church. John’s sense of humour and story-telling skills are legendary. His keen observation skills have augmented his repertoire.

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Ilderton and Area Villager

In Celebration and Charity – Early Christmas Cards by Krista A. Taylor, Archivist, Middlesex Centre Archives

The act of exchanging Christmas cards started over one hundred and seventy-five years ago in Victorian England. Since then, the form and appearance of the card has changed several times; from postcards, to engraved folded cards to digitally created photo card to the e-card. While the format may have changed, the sentiment remains the same: celebration and charity. The sending of the first Christmas card is attributed to Henry Cole (1808-1882). Cole, later founding director of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, England was the first to send a Christmas card in 1843. The V & A website explains that Cole “was instrumental in revamping the British postal system, helping to set up the Uniform Penny Post which encouraged the sending of seasonal greetings on decorated letterheads and visiting cards.” Cole had his artist friend, John Callcott Horsley, create drawings from which he chose one, and it was transferred to cards at the printer. The chosen design was personal, as it depicted three generations of the Cole family, lifting a glass in cheer, surrounded by decoration, with a simple message. One thousand cards were printed for the Cole family to send with a personalized, hand-written greeting. Cole attempted to sell the card for a shilling a piece, which was too expensive for many and was viewed as a failed venture. However, Cole was ahead of his time, as he was the first to sell commercially produced Christmas cards. TheMiddlesex Centre Archives has several collections that contain Christmas cards from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The cards vary from simple design with a single red silk ribbon bow to patriotic imagery. Some contain quotes from Charles Dickens, while others from businesses thank patrons for their continued support. Engraved with gold or black, the text is beautiful and simple. One card in the collection, features the entire poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas” by Clement Clarke Moore. By the number of preserved cards in family collections, it’s evident Christmas cards were a special memento to receive. For some, even theenvelopewas kept. Thepreservationof personal ephemera such as this helps us have insight into the card exchanges around the holidays, a tradition that continues to this day. To visit the Middlesex Centre Archives and view our collection of vintage Christmas cards, please contact us tomake an appointment at 519.518.5590 or email [email protected] The Victoria and Albert Museum has a collection of more than 30,000 Christmas cards. Visit them at https://www.vam.ac.uk Enjoy the benefits of a Middlesex Centre Archives Membership. $15. Apply at: middlesexcentrearchive.ca/membership-application As described above, the first card did not depict what may be imagined for Christmas card art. While many will assume that the cards reflected winter or holiday scenes, it is quite the opposite. Many Christmas cards in the nineteenth century and early twentieth century looked nothing like the stereotypical Christmas card of today. Pink roses, blue silk tassels and blue birds were not uncommon. From the Zavits Bycraft Family Fonds 2015-0081

This letter (left) worked hard to arrive! Sent in November 1917, this card passed through the censor in France and made its way to Hyde Park to Mrs. Arthur Scott in December 1917. Inside, a simple message: “With kind remembrance and best wishes for Christmas and the coming year” and signed by the sender. A simple red ribbon, with threads of white and blue adorn the card with the two flags. Boston Family Fonds 2021-0002 Right: This sweet little card has a hand-written note on the reverse: “A little token of glad remembrance from Vanneck W.M.S. Signed on behalf of the aux Agnes Dodd Pres.” Boston Family Fonds 2021-0002

Sent from Ilderton post office, 1924. Boston Family Fonds 2021-0002

http://middlesexcentrearchive.ca Visit us on Facebook!

MCA 2022 Calendars Theme: Main Street, Middlesex Centre. $15 or $18 mailed. Available at Middlesex Centre Archives; Delaware Variety and BJ’s Country Market (Delaware); Municipal Offices (Coldstream); Floral Temptations (Ilderton); Crunican Orchards (Birr), Foodland-Komoka and Arva Flour Mill. Historical Landmark Tour Books Available: Delaware, Lobo 1 and Lobo 2, $10 at Middlesex Centre Archives **Seeking researchers and writers for London Township Historical Landmarks** MCA 2022 Online Auction MCA is accepting donation items for the Online Auction (January 15 deadline). Email: [email protected] OR call Carol Small 519-666-1488, Bev Hughes 519-666 0452, Mary Vanderwal 519-666-0815

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Page 6 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2021

Council Communications

Hello Everyone, It’s almost time to celebrate a new year, which made me think a “look back” at all that’s been accomplished this past year in terms of goals identified in our 2021-26 Strategic Plan would be a good idea. While MXC staff continued to respond to ongoing pandemic challenges and deliver all of the required services, they also made remarkable progress on the objectives defined in the Plan. Even though COVID-restrictions continued through 2021, residents and business owners responded to invitations to contribute at sessions and surveys which focused on completing an Official Plan review, the Community Services Master Plan, an Age-Friendly Community Action Plan, as well as a ‘C-19 friendly’ budget process. Every effort was made to ensure residents had a chance to participate, provide their input and ensure process transparency. In addition, MXC established a Youth Advisory Committee to ensure this population will be ‘at the table’ to provide input on youth programming. Staff helped some community groups explore grant opportunities. Writing grant proposals is normal in the municipal sector, but the success staff had in accessing funds made available by various Ministries was amazing! Just to give you an idea, the range of opportunities included modernization / effectiveness and efficiency initiatives, infrastructure projects grants (accessible washrooms / playgrounds), funding for sports equipment and initiatives for area businesses. Doing things in partnership with others has also been a key strategy to get things done! Examples include community members working with staff to fine tune the Food Truck By-law, and our MXC

Aina DeViet, Mayor 519.666.0190 x 234

[email protected] www.middlesexcentre.on.ca

Building staff providing inspection and building services to a number of neighbouring municipalities. Work in partnership with various teams at the County has provided opportunities for modernization, tourism and business projects, as well as the development of a Community Well-being Plan. The priorities the community identified as foundational to our strategic plan include: 1 – Engaged Community; 2 – Balanced Growth; 3 – Vibrant Local Economy; 4 – Sustainable Infrastructure & Services; and, 5 – Responsive Municipal Government. Even with the few highlights I’ve noted above, I think it’s clear that although the work on the 5-year plan has just begun, progress is significant! I’m sure we’re all looking forward to a more normal holiday period this year! I hope you all have a chance to celebrate the season with family, friends and neighbours in memorable ways, and I wish you health, much happiness and many reasons to smile in the coming year! Happy 2022 and very best, Aina

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Bloomers Family Farm – proud to be part of the Ilderton community by Rick Young It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Ilderton’s Bloomers Family Farm! November was a busy month for the Bloomfield family – Steve and his wife Kendra, and their four children – as they prepared for the Christmas season. The annual Christmas Gift Barn opened its doors to shoppers in mid-November. Christmas Urn classes with Katlin Sumner of Katlin Sumner Designs were also hosted on the farm throughout the month.

“The Christmas Gift Barn will be open 10am-5pm weekends in December as well as from December 20-23. It will be open on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve 10am-12pm. There are lots of décor items, giftware, gift baskets, and other seasonal items for purchase,” says Kendra. “Santa will also be on hand for photos, by appointment only, and we’re offering a kids’ colouring contest.”

A mixed working farm that grows corn, soybeans, wheat and hay, Bloomers also raises and sells beef cattle, chickens, and eggs. Known for its rustic appeal with beautiful trees, old wooden fences, and amazing landscapes, it provides the perfect backdrop for family photos. It’s open to the public every Friday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm all year round. The Farm Store offers a wide selection of ethically raised, antibiotic freemeats,whicharealsoraisedwithout theuseofgrowthhormones. “We take great pride in how our animals are raised. Quality of life is our top priority. We firmly believe that happy, healthy, stress-free animals provide healthier, better quality meat,” says Kendra. The store also carries products from a number of local suppliers, including local pork products from The Whole Pig, and other meats from Black Sombrero, maple syrup from Rolling Ridge

The 100 acre Bloomers Family Farm is nestled on Ivan Drive in rural Middlesex County. “There has always been a farm on this property ever since the creation of Lobo Township,” says Kendra. “The farm has been in the Bloomfield family since 1962 when Grandpa, Royden Bloomfield, bought it. Steve’s father, Clare Bloomfield, bought it in 1969, and Steve bought it in 2002.”

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Page 8 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2021

what it’s like to raise children in the agriculture industry. We want to share the highs and lows, successes and failures,” says Kendra. “Bloomers Family Farm isn’t just a business, it’s our life’s work. It is something that has come from hard work, blood, sweat and lots of tears. We live where we work, and work where we live and there is no separation between the two. We offer quality products, that we have given our best to raise for the community that we live in, and love. We are faithful, loyal and considerate stewards of the land, always striving to learn more and create a better environment then we started with. We are farmers, and proud to do what we do.” The Bloomfield family is proud to be part of the Ilderton community and engage in many area activities. “Steve has lived here his entire life. He has always been involved in the community in many different aspects. From helping with the local Ilderton Fair to coaching many different sports teams for his kiddos to sitting on Boards and committees,” says Kendra. “He loves his heritage, where he comes from, and where he lives. We give back to the community whenever we are able through fundraisers, sponsorship, supporting other local businesses, getting involved with events and activities, and just helping out where we can.” “We wouldn’t be here today without the support and love from our local community. They have helped us to grow our business from the ground up. It isn’t just shopping in our store, but the likes, follows and comments on our social media pages. It’s the word of mouth advertising, the referrals to friends and family. It’s the encouragement given, the kindwords, and the visits at the Farmers Markets, the parades, and our events on the farm. We consider ourselves fortunate to live in such a great community, and to be a part of a wonderful agriculturally diverse part of Ontario.” For more information about Bloomers Family Farm, visit https:// bloomersfarm.com/ and follow themon Facebook and Instagram.

Maple Products, fresh bread products and meat pies from La Noisette Bakery, honey from Bowman Apiaries, olive oils from The Pristine Olive, ice cream from London Ice Cream Company, and cheese products from Jensen Cheese. Bloomers truly is a family operation. “Everyone is involved in the farm in some aspect or another. From caring for it, feeding and caring for the animals, helping in the barn, to working in the store, driving the equipment, or helping with the field work,” says Kendra. “Steve’s parents, Clare and Wendy Bloomfield, still remain involved in the day to day operations. Clare comes to the farm almost every day to help in some capacity and Wendy helps us in the store. The kids all have regular chores to do.” Bloomers is active on social media. Its website also offers a Blog. “We try to share information about our life on the farm. Things we are doing, howwe run it, but also the real life of living on a farm. We share about the business, the store, activities and events, as well as struggles and successes. We share about our family,

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Planes, Trains and Automobiles – Hand-made wood toys by Gord Abra by Cathy Wood When Gord Abra was a little boy, his grandfather made him a barn and wooden farm animals. “I was very young but I loved playing with this,” Gord fondly remembers. After retiring five years ago from a 45 year career as an auto mechanic, Gord didn’t want anything to do with working on cars. “No hot rod for me,” he says. “I still wanted to work with my hands and I started making wooden toys. It’s been a great Covid-19 project.” “During the last couple of summers, I was at the Ilderton Farmers Market and what people mostly remember and ask about, and that children relate to, are the farm tractors, fire trucks, trains.” Previously holding a Private Pilot License, Gord also enjoys making small wooden versions of the airplanes he once flew, and the ones owned and flown by his flying friends. “I think the wooden airplane I am most proud of is the model of a Lancaster I made for a war pilot. This replica was challenging but very rewarding as he loved it.” “Now when a grandparent, parent, aunt or uncle buys one of my wooden trains, planes, tractors or cars at the Market and hands it to the child, the smiles warm my heart every time.” Shopping for a gift sure to create a fond memory for a child – or pilot? Visit Gord at the Ilderton Outdoor Christmas market on December 4 or contact him at [email protected] or 519-461-0037. Right: Gord with some of his toys in his workshop. Below: the Abra booth at the Ilderton Farmers Market in June 2021 – Gord with his wooden toys and Nancy Abra with her jams, jellies, chutneys and more from her garden. You can see more of those at www.frommygarden.ca or find From My Garden on facebook.

Gord’s model of the Katana from local aircraft manufacturer Diamond Aircraft.

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Council Communications Lots happening in our downtown and surrounding area! Our local businesses, including those in the rural areas, are all decorated for Christmas and ready to welcome you!

The first ever Christmas market, sponsored by the Ilderton and Area Business Association, comes to the Ilderton Village Centre, December 4th from 4-8 p.m. in the municipal parking lot. Featuring 21 vendors it sounds like a great opportunity to shop local, mingle with neighbours, and meet some local entrepreneurs! Then, the following weekend, another first! Sponsored by the Ilderton Agricultural Society, the Chrismast Parade will be coming to downtown from 5-6 p.m. on December 11th! The parade will start on Robert Street, continue along Ilderton Road, turn right on to King Street and then back to the fairgrounds. Check out the website www.ildertonfair.ca for details. Teaming up again this year, the Ilderton and District Lions and the Ilderton Fire Department collected donations for the Ailsa Craig Food Bank on November 21st. If you were unable to contribute at that time, there will be a donation box in place at the fire hall for further additions until about December 19th. Let’s help out where we can! There are a lot of beautiful light displays within Middlesex Centre, including in and around Ilderton, Denfield, Birr and nearby rural areas, all put up by our enterprising residents! While enjoying

Debbie Heffernan, Councillor Ward 1, Middlesex Centre 519.666.0491 • [email protected] www.middlesexcentre.on.ca And finally, the Ilderton and Area Villager celebrates their first anniversary! They have been instrumental in highlighting local businesses and residents, as well as bringing us a bit of history with each issue in the past year! Thank you! Stay safe, stay healthy, keep your shovels handy, and shop local! Merry Christmas! the sights, please be mindful of traffic as you drive through these residential neighbourhoods. A huge thank you to all the volunteers, entrepreneurs and residents for putting these ventures together, providing Ilderton and area some Christmas cheer during this continued pandemic!

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December 2021 • Page 11

Ilderton and Area Villager

Ilderton Minor Hockey Association has a busy season ahead by Rick Young After an abbreviated past year due to the pandemic, it’s shaping up to be a busy 2021/22 season for the Ilderton Minor Hockey Association. On Saturday, December 4, the Lucan Irish Jr. C Hockey Club returns to the Ilderton Arena for a special night hosted by the IMHA where they’ll take on the Port Stanley Sailors. Ilderton and Lucan share a rich senior hockey history going back to the 1950’s. The communities originally joined forces to be known as the Lucan-Ilderton Combines and later became the famed Lucan-Ilderton Jets. Today both communities operate successful minor hockey programs. Ilderton is proud to host the Lucan Irish Junior C club as a nod to recognizing this hockey connection. General admission to the December 4th game will be $10.00 per Adult, $5.00 for Seniors and High School students, and Elementary school students are $2.00. There will be a licensed bar area, food, a 50/50 draw, and “Chuck a Puck” for kids. Tickets will be provided to the coaches to distribute to their team for selling. Doors open at 6:45 pm and the puck drops at 7:45 pm. Proof of vaccination and ID are required for admission. Net proceeds from the game will be directed back to support development of Ilderton’s minor hockey programs. “The Lucan Irish have traditionally been comprised of strong area talent. Many area players past and present have brought their talents north of Highway 7. The current Lucan Irish squad boasts several players from Ilderton,” says Pat Conlin, IMHA Director of Sponsorship and Fundraising. “Three former IHMA players with the Lucan Irish are Kieran Durand, Brandon Lamoureux, and Owen Currie.”

IMHA fundraising and sponsorship opportunities continue throughout the year. For more information, visit sponsorinfo@ ildertonjets.com or www.ildertonjets.com. “We’re also launching a series of monthly online 50/50 draws using a new platform called Rafflebox,” says Pat. “Throughout the season there will be four opportunities to support players and have the chance to be a lucky 50/50 draw winner. The money raised through each draw will help offset some of the registration costs for our players.” Tickets are 20 for $50.00, seven for $20.00, and three for $10.00. The campaign is live now with four draw dates: December 4, January 29, 2022, February 26, 2022, and March 30, 2022. All draws will be at 9:00 pm. To purchase draw tickets, visit www.ildertonjets.com, and click on the 50/50 Tab. It is, indeed, going to be a busy season for the IMHA. Come out and show your support for the teams!

C runiCan O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE Krown London Hyde Park 1930 Mallard Road, Unit 7 London, ON (519) 473-0030 GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE AT Reduced Maintenance Costs Longer Vehicle Life Higher Resale Value Safer Vehicle The gift of a better car! The thoughtfulness of a gift certificate from Krown will be appreciated even longer than the benefits of:

Become an Ilderton Minor Hockey Association Sponsor! Reach over 425 players and their families and build your brand in our community!

To advertise here, please contact [email protected] Monday – Friday 9-6 • Saturday 9-5 • SUNDAY 12-5 519-666-0286 • crunicanorchards.com OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286 23778 RICHMOND STREE NORTH Just 10 minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK APPLES MAPLE SYRUP preserves APPLE CIDER PEANUTS APPLE CIDER VINEGAR HONEY JAMS JERRY RADER PIES Holiday Gift B skets! OPEN ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286 C runiCan O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE C runiCan O rChards FresH Local Apples b PUMPKINS b SQUASH b SEASONAL PRODUCE Maple Syrup b Apple Cider b APPLE CIDER Vinegar Honey b Jams b Peanuts b JERRY RADER PIES & MORE OPE ALL WINTER 7 DAYS A WEEK! Monday-Friday 9-6, Saturday 9-5, Sunday 12-5 RICHMOND STREET NORTH Just 10 Minutes from Masonville at 15 Mile Road 519-666-0286

OPTION A: Jersey Sponsorship 3 year commitment: $1,500 ($500 per year) includes your business name on the back of team jerseys and recognition on our website and at Annual Awards Banquet. OPTION B: 1/2 Boards Sponsorship 3 year commitment: $1,200 ($400 per year) includes 30” x 88” vinyl advertisment on boards to display company name, website and contact information.

For additional information please visit www.ildertonjets.com or email [email protected] GO JETS GO! OPTION C: Special Item Sponsorship Opportunity to provide enhanced equipment and offerings to our membership.

Page 1 2 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2021

(Not your Gramma’s) Christmas Cake, by Tracie Aarts – Arva Mill House Bakery Ingredients: Dried frui t 300 grams/ 10 oz golden raisins (try chopped figs) 150 grams / 5oz diced dried apricots 75 grams / 2.5 oz mixed peel (lemon and/or lime) 150 grams / 5 oz glace cherries (try 5 oz diced dried mango instead) 1 cup plus 2 tbsp apple juice (or 1/3 cup brandy and 2/3 apple juice) Cake 115 grams/8tbsp unsalted softened butter 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar 1/2 cup vegetable oil 3 tbsp molasses or golden (corn) syrup 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp allspice 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 tsp nutmeg 3 eggs 1/2 tsp baking powder 1 2/3 cups All Purpose Flour 3/4 cups chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) Directions: Soaked Fruit Place dried fruit and juice/brandy in a large microwaveable container. Microwave until hot, approx. 1 to ½ minutes. Stir to coat all fruit in liquid. Cover and set aside for one hour.

Cake • Preheat oven to 325. Grease and line a 9” inch tall cake pan or grease a bundt pan very well. • Using an electric mixer or stand mixer beat butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute on high speed) • Add oil and molasses. Beat until combined. • Add salt, spices and baking powder. • Add eggs one at a time, beating just until incorporated. • Bake for 2 hours and 15 mins. Remove foil and bake for another 45 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean. • Remove from oven and let cool for 20 mins before transferring to cooling rack. • Cool completely before cutting into wedges or thin strips. • To decorate, top with fresh fruit such as cherries and dust with icing sugar. Or serve with warm custard! • Stir in the flour until just combined. • Stir in the fruit mix with all juices. • Pour into cake pan. Cover with foil.

For all your holiday living and giving!

CHERYL CAMPBELL INSURANCE and FINANCIAL SERVICES 519.666.2631 Wishing you health, wealth and happiness for the holiday season and New Year

CHERYL CAMPBELL [email protected]

200 YEARS OF TRADITION BAKED INTO EVERY BITE Made from scratch daily, and whenever possible, from local, organic ingredients. BAKERY • COFFEE • LOCAL CHEESE, PRESERVES, DIPS & MORE

Located on site at the historic Arva Flour Mill 2042 Elgin Street, Arva • (519) 601-6455 Check in often to see what’s baking! Wednesday to Saturday 9am – 4pm arvamillhousebakery.ca

KAREN JOICE karenmjoice @gmail.com

CONTACT CHERYL OR KAREN FOR ASSISTANCE WITH YOUR LIFE INSURANCE MORTGAGES INVESTMENTS FINANCIAL PLANNING

To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

December 2021 • Page 13

Ilderton and Area Villag

Cultural Cooking Peppermint Patties by Tami Martin

It is a holiday tradition for me to make several sweets for my family, friends and clients – my father’s Chocolate Macaroons, my Grandmother’s Shortbreads and Rum Balls, my Mother’s Christmas Bark and an old friend’s Cracker Candy. These incredible Peppermint Patties I discovered myself a few years ago seem to be everyone’s favourites. Here’s the recipe: Ingredients: 1/4 cup Softened Butter 1/3 cup Light (clear) Corn Syrup 1 – 2 tsp Peppermint Extract 3 cups Powder Icing Sugar 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate (2 x 225-gram boxes of Bakers Semi-Sweet Chocolate, or Dark Chocolate Chips) Coloured Sprinkles if desired Directions: In a larger mixing bowl, beat the butter, corn syrup, and peppermint extract with an electric mixer, and slowly add the icing sugar and mix until it forms a stiff dough. Form teaspoon (1”) sized round balls and place them on a baking sheet with wax paper, flatten them with your finger, then place in a freezer for one hour. Using a double boiler, melt 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate. Remove from heat, and dip each frozen patty in the melted chocolate (using a 2 or 3 prong fork), and place them on a new baking sheet lined with wax paper. You can also add coloured sprinkles if desired. Freeze them until you’re ready to enjoy – or gift your home-made treat to someone special. (Use additional chocolate and double dip the frozen chocolate peppermint patties for a deeper chocolate flavour if desired.)

Peppermint extract is made from the essential oils of the leaves of the Peppermint plant. The plant is a hybrid mint – a cross between watermint and spearmint. The leaves and flowering tops are collected as soon as the flowers begin to open and can be dried. It’s used to add a peppermint flavour to baked goods, desserts, and candy.

13236 Ilderton Road, P.O. Box 168 Ilderton (519) 666-2032 • www.floraltemptations.com Merry Christmas and HappyNewYear to all! Flowers, plants and gifts for all of your holiday needs.

To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

Page 14 Ilderton and Area Villager • December 2021

Ilderton and Area Villager Puzzle #10 Solve the puzzle with names of the advertisers from the November 2021 Ilderton and Area Villager listed below. Missed getting a printed copy? You can read it online at villagerpublications.com. Watch for the solution of the this puzzle in the January-February edition of the Ilderton and Area Villager. Please support our advertisers. It’s their participation that enables us to deliver the Ilderton and Area Villager to you.

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October Puzzle Solution

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Puzzle words: ANIMAL CARE ARVA MILL HOUSE BAKERY AVON BLOOMERS FAMILY FARM BONNIE BAKER HODGINS CRUMP FAMILY FARM

DENNINGS FLORAL TEMPTATIONS IMPRESSIONS HOME HARDWARE LACE BOUTIQUE LIVYBEAN MARKETPLACE MIDDLESEX MUTUAL INS

OXFORD LEASEWAY POSITIVE IMAGE FITNESS POAG JEWELLERS RUFF TRAX SYNERGY AESTHETIC TIM ESTABROOKS TREE LANE FARMS

WELLNESS SOLUTIONS MERRY CHRISTMAS HAPPY HOLIDAYS SANTA CLAUS PARADE SNOWMAN SHOP LOCAL

Stylish Comfort and Amazing Service, Ampersand Ave Hoodies, Bamboo Tanks, Tops & Leggings, Loungewear, Denim, Dresses, Six N Stone Jewelry and more!

NOW OPEN! 213 Main Street Lucan Thurs-Sat 10:30-5 Sunday 12 - 3

Visit laceboutiquefashions.ca and follow us on facebook and instagram for new arrivals! Contact me at [email protected]

To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

December 2021 • Page 15

Ilderton and Area Villager

Looking for solutions for your business transportation needs? Oxford Dodge’s Small Business Advantage Plan is specifically designed to help make leasing or financing your vehicles, easy, convenient and simple!

[email protected] • 519-280-1926 1249 Hyde Park Road, London ON N6H 5K6 SIMPLE • CUSTOMIZED • TAILORED TO YOU! Matt McHardy All the best of the holiday season and New Year!