Real Living May 2021 Villager

Real Living May 2021 Villager

REAL LIVING Rural Elgin Agricultural

SPRING 2021 Issue 8

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UP TOYOURNECK INWORRIES ABOUT SPRING FLOODS? No wonder! Heavy rains, rising rivers, stressed sewers: every Spring brings us a torrent of worries about flooding and water damage. Our answer? “It’s complicated!” Different insurance companies have different packages to cover water losses.

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Flood Insurance may be needed if your home is near lakes, rivers or ponds, to protect your property from storm surges, tidal waves and similar major events. OverlandWater Insurance covers sudden water events such as heavy Spring rains or a river overflowing its banks in a Spring thaw. EnhancedWater Damage Insurance will combine coverages for multiple types of water problems such as ground water, overland water, exterior water and sewer lines.

Let us keep your head above water! Your choice of coverages will depend very much on the specific location of your home, surrounding terrain and nearby water features. As your local insurance advisor, we can help to assess conditions affecting your home and compare your options from 12 top Canadian insurers.

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Page 2 Real Living • Spring 2021 2021 90 Talbot Street West, Aylmer, Ontario N5H 1J8 • Tel: 519-773-8401 • Fax: 519-765-2368 Toll free: 1-800-505-5622 • Email: [email protected] BUSINESS HOURS THURSDAY 9:30 am to 5:00 pm FRIDAY 9:00 am to 4:30 pm MONDAY/TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY 9:00 am to 5:00 pm www.mctaggartarmstronginsurance.com • 1-800-505-5622

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Government Making Headway in Connecting Homes Across Elgin County by Whitney South The future, it seems, is on its way to Elgin County. Faster, reliable Internet service can soon be expected for about 1,400 Elgin county residents, thanks to three contracts signed with providers for broadband infrastructure. The announcement was made on March 17 by London-Elgin- Middlesex MPP, Jeff Yurek, citing federal and provincial commitments of up to $2 million each for fibre-optic broadband service in rural, remote and underserved areas of Elgin County. “This is incredible and timely news for the residents of Elgin County,” said Yurek. “I’m proud that the Ontario government is prioritizing the delivery of reliable broadband to the underserved areas of our community.” The contracts for a regional broadband expansion project initiated by the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus and delivered in partnership with member municipalities and the governments of Ontario and Canada were awarded by SWIFT, a not-for-profit corporation initiated by local municipalities to address connectivity in south-western Ontario. Construction for the infrastructure network is expected to begin soon, with service starting in September of 2022. What’s more, work is ongoing to bridge the gaps, as part of a combined federal and provincial investment of more than $191 million to bring fast, reliable and affordable internet to thousands of homes and businesses, allowing communities to attract new development, strengthen local economies and create more well-paying jobs and opportunities in rural Ontario. “High-speed Internet service is essential to the success of everyone living and working in rural Ontario,” said the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development in the release, adding that not only will the move help create jobs, but also improve access to health care and online learning services, as well as keep people connected to their loved ones. “Our government has committed over $205 million to 17 connectivity projects in Ontario, which will connect 19,657 more households to better, faster Internet. We will continue to make investments like these to help connect every Canadian to the high-speed Internet they need. Congratulations to all the partners involved in this project by SWIFT.”

SWIFT is committed to improving access to high-speed internet services across south-western Ontario. Focused on enabling greater digital equality between rural and urban populations, SWIFT subsidizes the construction of open- access high-speed networks to encourage service providers to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved rural areas. To date, more than 2,140 households and businesses have received access to improved broadband through SWIFT. For more info on SWIFT, visit www.swiftruralbroadband.ca.

Real Elgin Agricultural Living May 2021 Cover Singing Sculpture by Scott McKay of Strong Arm

Forge, Iona Station Photo by Geoff Rae

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Real Living • Spring 2021 •

It’s a Family Affair at Advanced Motorsports by Whitney South After spending the majority of his life farming, Larry Parker decided it was time to look for something new. What he found was not only a successful business venture, but a partnership with his son, Dean —which really made all the difference. “There’s definitely a little bit of pride there,” Larry explains with a smile. “This is something that we started together from scratch and didn’t know whether we were going to be able to pull it all together and make it work. This was the kind of business Dean really focused on, and I was happy to be a part of it. It’s turned into a pretty successful business we can be proud of.” Founded in April, 2004, Advanced Motorsports Ltd. started out as a small shop offering parts and accessories, specializing in Yamaha products, as well as servicing Artic Cat, Honda, Kawasaki, Polaris and Suzuki. Since the beginning, Larry, Dean and their team have continued to pride themselves on a business anchored in honestly, integrity and personal service, exactly what the owners themselves would want when shopping local. “Customer service is literally No. 1; that’s what helps businesses grow,” says Larry. “We live in a great community and it’s so important for us to support local business and give people out there a reason to support us as well.” Thesedays,AdvancedMotorsportsboastsawideselection of pre-owned ATVs, motorcycles, and snowmobiles, and has recently added aquatic options to the line-up. Whether

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Page 4 Real Living • Spring 2021

customers are entry level riders or seasoned veterans, the team not only provides quality products, but expert knowledge and factory trained technicians, as well. In addition, they offer on-site test facilities to try out the pre- owned inventory. “When we originally started, the parts service was our core,” Larry recalls. “Then when Yamaha came along, we took it to the next level. Last year, Suzuki asked us if we would consider marine products, and we decided to go with it. We just keep growing.” One of the reasons a wide selection of vehicles is so important is how short seasons can be; giving riders the chance to try new things and get outdoors no matter the weather is essential. And after years of racing dirt bikes, as well as riding ATVs and snowmobiles, that’s something Larry knows about first-hand.

“We always said that we had to be a four-season business, and nobody wants to spend their time waiting on repairs and wasting that time. We want to see our customers out there riding, doing what they love to do.” Advanced Motorsports Ltd. can be found at 44583 Dexter Line, just 15 minutes east of Port Stanley. For more info, visit www.advancedmotorsports.ca.

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Real Living • Spring 2021 •

Bring Saint T. to the Rest of Canada The Story of Malichi Male, the owner of Saint T. Fashion, and his love of St. Thomas is a unique one. Malichi is a rapper, and on his way to a scheduled performance in London, his bus took a wrong turn on Highbury and ended up in St. Thomas. A wrong turn to get to London, a right turn for the life

of Malichi and his family. In his first visit to St. Thomas, he loved it so much that he and his family moved here to pursue his passion for music and his entrepreneurial spirit. That spirit led him to open Saint T. Fashion and Hair Design in 2019, which has now grown to include other brands and locations in St. Thomas, including Saint T. Platinum which opened in late 2020 and the soon to be opened Saint T. Game Time. Malichi’s love for St. Thomas and local businesses has grown and is expanding. He launched his new Saint T. Apparel stores in Rodney (October, 2020) and Ingersoll (January, 2021), with another location opening soon in Aylmer. But why open a store promoting St. Thomas outside of St. Thomas? Here is what Malichi has to say: “My love for St. Thomas made me want to share it with the rest of the world, one city at a time, while creating job opportunities in fun, creative atmospheres in smaller cities where good paying jobs are difficult to come by.” He adds, “I found that people were traveling from other cities to get Saint T. gear, and requesting locations in their cities, so I gave the people want they wanted.”

Saint T. Fashion offers their iconic Jumbo apparel, as well as a variety of brand name fashions at small town prices which has been a hallmark of the success of Malichi’s stores. “We provide brand name fashion and apparel at affordable prices, because it shouldn’t cost a fortune to look good.” He also points out that with new shipments of merchandise constantly arriving, it is like a new store each visit. But Malichi is also tailoring his apparel to his customers’ wants and needs. “We offer specific merchandise for each city. For example, each city has its own clothing line in homage to the city and its history, like the Jumbo line is to St. Thomas. Each store also has a specific niche. Rodney has their own personal clothing line, but due to high demand, we also added a hunting apparel section and we’ll soon start selling hunting and camping equipment as well.” Malichi has been a champion of St. Thomas for years now, and he is very excited to bring his new lines to Aylmer, Rodney and Ingersoll. “What has me most excited about the new locations is being able bring dope urban apparel to these communities, so people won’t have to leave their cities to look fresh.” Saint T Apparel 242 Furnival Rd, Rodney 55 Talbot Street, Aylmer (opening soon) 8 King Street West, Ingersol

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Page 6 Real Living • Spring 2021

Moore Ave Underground Finds Eerie Inspiration with Latest Single, 6 Feet by Whitney South It’s been an eventful year for Aylmer’s own Moore Ave Underground. Now, the local pop-punk skate-rockers are ushering audiences into their dreamscapes with the release of their latest single, 6 Feet. Inspiration for the new track stemmed from a subliminal vision band member, Josh Gaudette had in which his dad was dying. “Essentially, he was giving me his last words, and pieces of advice to take with me into the future,” Josh explained, adding that with his father still alive and well, it was a strange feeling to be at his bedside within the dream. “Even more disturbing was receiving the call that he was gone . . . it all seemed so real. The whole experience of writing the song had this super creepy vibe to it, as well. I think that comes through in the track.” Made up of Josh (rhythm guitar, vocals) and brothers, Joe (lead vocals) and Jack (bass), alongside life-long friend Shawn MacDonald (drums), Moore Ave Underground has been meticulously refining their craft for the past eight years. The guys are known to operate as one tight-knit unit, a community and a family — quite literally. While the video for 6 Feet had been planned with a more cinematic storyline, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced director Shawn and the crew to make the best of a less-than-ideal situation. In the end, the video was shot at the Gaudette homestead itself, which has always doubled as the band’s Moore Ave namesake. “Moore Ave Underground refers to our family home’s basement,” Josh explained. “When I took up music, the SCOTT LEWIS AUTO A name you can trust Is your car’s front end giving your arm a workout? Potholes can affect your suspension. Give us a call to book your appointment today!

basement was already filled with a foosball table, a hockey table and a bar that no one ever used. We convinced my mom and dad to make some hard choices and in order to make room for instruments, they ended up bidding a fond farewell to it all.” The band has continued to carve out a name for themselves in the Southern Ontario music scene, thanks in part to their energetic live shows. But that isn’t the only reason the name is familiar to music lovers in the area. In the past, the band has provided their practice space as a venue to host house shows, helping create a safe space for a thriving punk rock community. “It became something special,” Josh recalled. “Soon, friends, family and contributors started coming and going and creating. We’ve witnessed those who never believed in their musical ability grow into accomplished performers.” Moore Ave Underground’s latest offering joins a long list of recently released tracks, including 2020’s Beanies and Plaid Jackets, How You’ve Grown and What’s Done — as well as their debut EP, It’s All in my Head. The band is also currently finishing up their first full-length album. For more information on Moore Ave Underground, or to check out the video for 6 Feet, visit mooreaveunderground.com.

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Real Living • Spring 2021 •

Page 7

Keeping Up the Family Affair at HBI by Whitney South Started by Harry and Hilda Broer in 1990, H. Broer Equipment Sales &Service Inc. (HBI) has been a family-owned and operated business in Aylmer for nearly 30 years. While the company was originally intended to fill a niche market in the rail industry, as years passed it has diversified extensively but over the years, HBI’s goal has remained unchanged — to continue to strive to provide high quality products and service to all customers. As the company grew, considering that the store had always been a big part of family life, it didn’t take much for daughter, Heidi and son, Marcel to step up to the plate, taking on the roles of General Manager and Sales Manager, respectively. In fact, the siblings could be found cleaning the building in the early days, before working part time, and ultimately filling out the family team. “We kind of grew up at the shop,” Marcel explains, “So I think it was an easy transition. We enjoyed it, and I’ve not only worked in the shop, but I’ve been a part of the sales side of things all along.” While Marcel had gone to school for marketing, Heidi’s first instinct was to teach, before deciding HBI was where she wanted to be. “I had always worked in the business as well,” she recalls, “And I was kind of drawn back because I was always asked questions and I was always wondering what’s going at the shop. So, I just made the decision to come back and become involved.” The company was founded on all things rail, and with only a handful of businesses in all of Canada working in a very niche

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Page 8 Real Living • Spring 2021

Any correction to the ad must be requested by the customer within 48 Hours of receiving this approval request in order to meet the closing dates, which vary from one issue to another. PLEASE NOTE: YOUR AD WILL RUN “AS IS” UNLESS CHANGES ARE MADE TO THIS PROOF, SO PLEASE CHECK OFFERS, EXPIRY DATES, CONTACT INFORMATION & ALL WRITTEN COPY. As for founders Harry and Hilda? They’re still quite involved in the business. “They started everything, and it’s so good to be all in this together as a family,” says Heidi. “It was our parents’ mission to have us start making decisions at a young age, so that we’d know exactly what we need to do to make sure the business thrived. I know we’re fulfilling that dream.” For more information on H. Broer Equipment Sales & Service Inc., visit www.hbi.ca. market, HBI has maintained a reputation for supplying the very best in railcar movers and openers, as well as construction and used rail equipment. But they also cater to the everyday homeowner. “We’re pretty well known in the rail industry, but it’s funny how people in the area don’t always know what we do,” says Marcel. “A lot of people drive by our shop having no idea, but once they find out the secret, they easily become repeat customers.” From lawnmowers to snowblowers, pressure washers and blowers to hedge and line trimmers, HBI is a one-stop shop for anything you may need to spruce up your outdoors. HBI is also one of the largest generator dealers in Elgin County, offering everything from portable to emergency units. “Our company puts stuff in yards,” says Marcel with a smile. “We have lots of things for the regular customer or homeowner, for lawn and garden. Really anything you could need for the yard, we have it. We also service everything we sell.”

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Real Living • Spring 2021 •

Wicker Warmth by Sue Warden

Introducing wicker into your home décor is more popular than ever, especially with the warm, cozy decorating themes that are taking centre stage these days. There are

many ways to incorporate the hominess of this natural fibre through storage, plant bases, furniture and more. Wicker is traditional and adds a rustic flavour. It is one of my personal favourite ways of decorating. I have wicker dining chairs, as well as baskets throughout my home. I love the freshness it adds to my décor. Here are some great tips and tricks to add wicker to your home. The Look If you decide to add wicker and rattan to your decorating plans, consider committing to a larger piece or multiple pieces, such as two good sized wicker chairs in your living or family room to create a focal point. This natural product comes in several tones and hues, all neutral so you may want to decide which direction you want to go. For example, there are browner tones, as well as a white- washed look and grey tones. If you are adding wicker to your living space, combine it with other textures, such as a fabric sofa. Then pull in accessories like cushions, throw blankets and of course, plants. Wall Decor Gallery walls are not only popular, but a great way to mix different items for interest and charm. Wicker baskets

can be grouped together along with pieces of art and shelves for dimension to create a fabulous focal point in a room. This look works well in pretty much any space and is relatively inexpensive to do. Think about a basket gallery wall going up stairs, or in a foyer. Storage

Out of all the ways you can incorporate wicker into your home, storage is at the top of the list. It is a brilliant way to hide things while at the same time, add beautiful elements to a space. Towels and sheets tuck nicely away in square baskets in a storage closet while keeping the closet neat and tidy. Large decorative baskets sit to the side of a fireplace housing extra cushions and throw blankets for cozy evenings. Small wicker accessories sit on vanity countertops to store toiletries for easy daily use. Mail pokes out of baskets on the wall to keep incoming and outgoing communication in order, and the children’s toys are out of sight while not in use in a beautiful wicker chest. Lighting Pendant and floor lamps in any room add character and texture. Wicker or rattan lighting is yet another way to enhance a space. Light filters through wicker beautifully, and depending on the light fixture, can cast a soft patterned glow on the walls when lit. Furniture Wicker furniture is no longer kept outside. It is a true indoor staple and mixes well with just about any style of decorating. It is both textural and dimensional.

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Page 10 Real Living • Spring 2021

and rattan’s natural beauty into your living space. You don’t have to have a coastal or bohemian look to pull off wicker in your décor. The neutral, natural materials pair wonderfully with modern pieces and rustic alike. Keep in mind you can go overboard with wicker just as you can with any other styling, so start off slowly and add as you go. Have fun!

Dining chairs in wicker are not only durable, but also comfortable. Add a tie-on cushion for longer stays at the dining table or small lumbar cushions for a blast of colour. An empty corner of a room calls out for a laid-back style of wicker chair or rocker for reading and relaxing. Don’t be afraid to add larger wicker chairs to your living space. Pair them with a textural fabric sofa and bright cushions. Benches are a great filler for a foyer or hall space and can also add even more storage! Keep in mind all you DIY’ers – wicker is easily spray painted and can act as that extra colour pop in your home. Accessorize Accessories such as vases, mirrors, small baskets, plant holders, and placemats are all great ways to incorporate wicker

Sue Warden is a seasoned television host, the author of three best selling craft and home décor books, and an interior designer. Contact Sue at [email protected]. Visit suewardendesign.com for more information.

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Real Living • Spring 2021 • Page 11

It’s Always Time for Farm Safety By Laura Fraser, OFA Member Service Representative for Oxford-Elgin As spring marches on and we inch closer and closer to summer, I’m sure we can all agree that it’s especially welcome after a long and isolating winter. The

It is equally important for motorists to act accordingly when driving behind vehicles with SMV signs. Be sure always to give lots of room behind farm machinery. Adjust your speed accordingly, and only pass when it is safe to do so. It is important to share the road, so motorists should not expect equipment to run completely or partly on shoulders, as farm machinery operators will stay on roadways whenever possible. Drivers should always be aware of motorists who are passing, and always be sure to take extra caution when entering roadways and making turns. Visit https://ofa.on.ca/resources/ smv-roadsafety/ for more resources. Driving behind a piece of farm equipment may seem like an inconvenience, but it is temporary and necessary for food supply and economic growth. So, the next time you are on the road behind a piece of farm equipment, I ask you to remember this article. Remember that on that tractor or combine is somebody’s husband or wife, son, daughter, or grandparent, with families to get home to. Working on the farm is much like adapting to life during a pandemic- slow down, take a deep breath and be safe.

days are getting longer, the trees and flowers are in bloom and the weather is warmer. While much of the world is still slowly navigating a pandemic, for many farmers, it’s business as usual. Despite the slowdown of life for most, farmers are moving full speed ahead; animals need to be fed and cared for; fields are worked and planted, and machinery maintained. Another constant on the farm is the need for safety. Too often, both children and parents consider the entire farm a play space. Statistics show that 72% of children injured on the farm are a child of the farm operator. Farm children live in a workplace – one that exposes them to machinery, chemicals, livestock and other hazards. The best way to keep children away from the risks is to have a specifically designated play area in the farm yard. Teaching children about the hazards on the farm at a young age is essential. Teach them which areas to avoid, and how to be safe around equipment. Working alongside children is part of farm life, often one of the best parts. We all know it’s busy and fast paced, and the work has to be done. But it only takes a second for tragedy to strike, and taking the extra time to be safe is always worth it. This time of year also brings more traffic and dangers on the road. While farmers would much rather be driving their equipment in a field, they often find themselves on a roadway to get there. Farm safety on the road is just as vital as on the farm, and it is important to remember how to achieve this. Slow Moving Vehicle signs on tractors or self-propelled implements on a highway are a must. SMV signs should be centered on the rear of the rearmost vehicle, .6 to 2 metres (2’ – 6’) above the road. Farm equipment using SMV signs must obey a 40 km/h (25 MPH) speed limit. It is also important to replace faded SMV signs, as they must be clearly visible from 150 metres (500’) away. Proper signaling and use of lights and taillights helps to make your equipment more visible to motorists.

Geoffrey Rae Managing Editor and Sales REAL LIVING Rural Elgin

519-495-7177 • [email protected] Publisher – Barb Botten [email protected] Graphic Artist – Cathy Wood Photos, community events and article suggestions welcome. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Page 12 Real Living • Spring 2021

Outstanding in her field

Hoarders: Farm Edition By Sarah Harrison, co-owner of Mazak Farms

Admit it; you’re there aren’t you? I see you with your “just in case” pile of lumber, and your old coffee can of nuts and bolts, those extra packages of nails, and the stockpile of parts for those unexpected breakdowns. Don’t be ashamed, be proud! How many times in this year of COVID have you walked out to the barn or the shop, or perhaps headed down to the basement to find what you need? It has happened on our farm a number of times. Instead of heading out to the hardware store, we spend a little more time scrounging around, and most times, we can find what we need. Or at the very least, find something that is close enough. Then we find a way to make it work. It makes me think of that age old saying ‘necessity is the mother of invention’. The dramatic increase in the price of lumber has been a great motivator on this farm to make do with what we already have on site. So far, it’s worked out pretty well! This spring we had really grand plans to build a system of raised garden beds out of lumber to increase our growing capacity. Due to Covid and costs, we took a step back, looked around, got creative and allowed ourselves time to consider a different approach. Our plans this spring still moved forward, but were adjusted, based

on what we already had on the farm -- less lumber needed, some on-hand materials used up and voila, a raised garden bed! We have all become quite adept at changing plans in this province -- what’s the new catch phrase? Pivot! We’re pivoting all right! Pivoting isn't really all that new to those of us in agriculture. The price of building materials increases? Pivot! Use the lumber from that deck you took down for your dad 5 years ago that’s been sitting out back. Hardware stores have limited hours and a long line to get in? Pivot! Head to the coffee can and get your kids to match up nuts and bolts so you can wrap up that project. Paint stores aren't accepting walk-ins? Pivot! Use up that pink paint from your daughter’s bedroom renovation. Paint that sign pink? Who cares?! Pivot! Embrace that inner hoarder. Making what you have work, doesn’t mean substandard work; lots of the time it means more creative, thoughtful work. Admittedly, sometimes you just can’t make do with what you have lying around, but when you can, it is simply satisfying. Keep being outstanding in your field!

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Real Living • Spring 2021 • Page 13

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Aylmer: 519-773-3838 West Lorne: 1-888-815-2306 St. Thomas: 519-637-5925

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Hearing & Dizziness Testing for All Ages Tinnitus (Ringing) Treatment • Hearing Aids www.elginaudiology.com SPRUCE LANE M O T O R P R O D U C T S Familyowned since 1991 –Thehome of the FriendlyDealer Richard & Robert Bertens (519) 644-1991 14011 Belmont Rd., Belmont, ONN0L 1B0 www.sprucelanemotors.ca

39 Burwell Road, St. Thomas, ON (519) 633-5884 • [email protected] • www.r-safety.ca AYLMERRAD SHOP &AGRICULTURAL PARTS Aylmer’s best source for high-quality, fairly priced parts.

Stop in for your Die-Cast toys. Cars, trucks & tractors. Make great gifts!

519-773-3209 114 Talbot St E, Aylmer

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JEFF YUREK, MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London Here to help you with any of the following provincial matters Monday through Friday, 10:00 - 4:30: Ontario Disability Support Program OHIP Cards • Driver’s Licences Ontario Works • Birth Certi f icates P: 519-631-0666 • T: 1-800-265-7638 750 Talbot St, Unit 201 St. T h omas, ON N5P 1E2 Email: [email protected] JEFF YUREK, MPP Elgin-Middlesex-London Here to help you with any of the following provincial matters Monday through Friday, 10:00 - 4:30: Ontario Disability Support Program OHIP Cards • Driver’s Licences Ontario Works • Birth Certi f icates P: 519-631-0666 • T: 1-800-265-7638 750 Talbot St, Unit 201 St. T h omas, ON N5P 1E2 Email: [email protected] P: 519-631-0666 • T: 1-800-265-7638 750 Talbot St, Unit 201, St. Thomas ON N5P 1E2 Email: [email protected]

Ontario Always Here for You Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns

5

Service for enthusiasts... by enthusiasts DEAN PARKER 44583 Dexter Line, Union, Ontario N0L 2L0 www.advancedmotorsports.ca P. 519-782-7155 F. 519-782-7143 E. [email protected]

Ontario

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Page 14 Real Living • Spring 2021

Willy andWisdom by Bill Denning

heroes of the war, the ones who made it home and the ones who didn’t. He reflected on how these trying times brought out the best in communities. Never did the “inconvenience of it all” come up. Willy would always put a positive spin on even the most negative historical events. Perhaps that’s why I enjoyed his stories so much. They were told with the insight that so often

Lately I have been thinking about some of the people I have known who died long before the days of Covid-19. I’ve wondered how they would have reacted to all the changes we have had to endure during the last year. One fellow in particular keeps coming to mind. Willy was a hard-working farmer who worked the land his great grandfather acquired from Colonel Talbot. He raised cattle, which were not always friendly. He told the story about how he and a large bull did a little tango. He literally got the bull by the horns. Willy was tough. Willy was a traditionalist. He always paid his bills in person. The folks from whom he rented farms would receive an annual visit on New Year’s Day which included a wad of cash and a shot of scotch to secure the land for the next year. Willy had an amazing memory. The stories he told about the great depression and World War II contained small intimate details of the trials he endured as a child. When I listened to him, I was given an opportunity to peak through a window to the past. He told me about the restrictions imposed, the gas rationing and almost bare shelves at the local grocery store, not as inconveniences but as challenges to be met. I remember how proud he was that he and his family had endured those hard times. He explained the bartering system that developed. People traded chickens and pigs for tractor repairs and funerals, not as a shameful thing but as a triumph of creativity and collaboration. He talked about the people he knew. He proudly spoke of local

accompanies old age. Willy had this wisdom in spades. His past experiences influenced his reaction to challenges; he always had a good answer for every problem. There was calmness in his demeanor and a wise twinkle in his eye. Right now, we are in the thick of a world changing event. It’s easy to get frustrated and fired up about the inconveniences with which we are dealing. Every time I hear about another change, I think of Willy and how he never talked about the frustrations of the old days, only the little victories in the midst of impossible times. That gives me hope. In Willy’s stories, it was the good that survived to be shared, not the bad. Like Willy, we will no doubt tell our grandchildren about these pandemic times. Let’s remember the small victories that we can celebrate and enjoy. In many ways, we can still see that the worst of times brings out the best in people. People care and share. Kindness doesn’t often make the news but if we live it, remember it and talk about it, I believe we can pass along hope to another challenging time and place.

J.B. WILSON & Son WELL DRILLING LTD. 519-269-3364 R.R. #1 SPRINGFIELD 519-269-3995

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Real Living • Spring 2021 • Page 15

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