Wortley Villager March 2022

Wortley Villager March 2022

Wortley Villager

March 2022 Issue 57

Wortley Villager Issue #57 March 2022 www.villagerpublications.com Managing Editor: Cathy Wood [email protected] Advertising: Tami Martin [email protected] 519-851-0961 Publisher: Barb Botten Villager Publications P.O. Box 134, Lambeth Station Ontario N6P 1P9 [email protected] 519-282-7262 Graphic Artist: Cathy Wood

Community Skating Rink on the Green, February 2022 Photo by Mike Kadour

Back in the Day Thames Park, January 1925

Georgia Kortas, lawyer at Thomson Mahoney Delorey LLP welcomes your inquires for legal services in estate planning, estate administration, real estate (residential / commercial) and business law. Georgia can be reached at: Thomson Mahoney Delorey LLP 145 Wharncliffe Road South, London, Ontario N6J 2K4 T: 519-673-1151 ext 251 E: [email protected]

Welcome to the Wortley Villager – your local community connector. The 100% locally owned and locally produced Wortley Villager is published ten times a year with thousands delivered free to area residences, set out at local venues, and posted online at www.villagerpublications.com.

Do you have an Old South Neighbour of Note? Do you do cultural cooking? We’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at [email protected]

Cover photo sugggestions welcome! Send your (vertical to fit), high resolution photos taken recently in Old South to [email protected].

AMANDA AUSTIN Marketing Your Property to Get it SOLD!

Service is my priority. Community is my passion. “Amanda provided us with a great experience as first time home buyers. We are so glad we met her and reached out to have her as our agent. She is very knowledgeable and her guidance helped us get the perfect home. Amanda made home searching fun even in this busy and

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Read our complete lineup of community magazines at villagerpublications.com

[email protected] Direct: 519-871-9807 • Office: 519-471-9200 Amanda (Patrick) Austin Sales Representative I ndependently Owned and Operated

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Page 2 Wortley Villager • March 2022

We Love Our Coves Community! by Megan Vandekerckhove

For Valentine’s Day, the Coves Community Association (CCA) set out to show some love to their neighbours, friends, and The Coves. On Saturday, February 12, people braved the chilly conditions for free hot chocolate to warm their hearts, and fresh homemade cookies to fill their bellies at the East Coves Pond. Asked to ‘bring-their-own-mugs’, friends old and new met at the sycamore tree, a known landmark in the area. Donations were accepted for Friends of the Coves Subwatershed Inc. “The Coves are such a special place and we wanted to do something to bring our community together this winter,” says Skylar Franke, founder of the CCA. We would like to thank Mike Harris of Century 21 First Canadian Corp for sponsoring the event, Sidetrack: A Wortley Cafe for the hot chocolate and Tried and True Baker for the cookies. For updates on future events, join Coves Community Association on Facebook. We hope to host a community clean-up event in April. Photos: (Below) CCA members, Megan Vandekerckhove, Skylar Franke and Ainsley Graham-Hebert with event sponsor, Mike Harris of Century 21, his wife Beate Harris and their golden retrievers, Cheddar and Brie. Neighbours and surprised trail hikers gather around the sycamore tree. (Right) Delicious hot chocolate and cookies await neighbours, skaters and hikers at the East Cove Pond sycamore tree. Children enjoy the iconic tree.

To advertise here, please contact [email protected]

Page 3

Wortley Villager

March 2022 •

To the Rescue! Kelly Smith is a decades-long hospital and community pharmacist, specializing in cancer and palliative care at Victoria Hospital in London, as well as addictions care in St. Thomas. “I volunteer for a couple of local food banks and support a number of animal rescue groups, includingmy home crew of Max (Golden Retriever), Penny (cat), Angel and Kaiju (bearded dragons) and Jack and Jill (rabbits). Max and I can often be seen walking in the hood, with a Timmie’s cup in his mouth (an empty one... he loves their cups!)” Kelly has lived in Old South since 2007. “I discovered several surprising “small world” connections when I moved here. Old South has a small town community feel (especially with all the other dog walkers in the area) but is so close to my workplace and all the other big city amenities that make life simpler,” she says. Several years ago Kelly’s brother adopted Sam, a very sick dog who was being fostered in Old South. Sam had been rescued from the streets of Egypt and was near death more than once. “He contracted distemper there as a puppy, becoming blind and epileptic,” explains Kelly. “He would never have survived so he was kindly brought to Canada. That is how we met the street dog rescuers of Cairo who saved his life. We could not turn away from the huge need of the animals there as they are consistently discarded, drowned, poisoned, run over and strangled. The typical street dog breed there is the Egyptian Baladi, but there are many other breeds discarded by previous owners, including purebreds like my own Golden Retriever Max”. The experience led to the formation of the Baladi Dog Rescue of Ontario, a very small group of area residents endeavouring to give these dogs and cats a chance at survival. “We are in desperate need of foster homes, but also welcome supplies and donations of any size,” said Kelly. “Wortley’s own A Village Tail has generously donated food to us! Our group’s greatest joy is seeing these animals with their new families – and to see them finally run free with glee – especially in our Canadian snow!” Learn more at: https://www.baladidogrescue.com/

Max and Kelly on a wintry day. “We both love snow. He makes dog angels and I make snow angels,” says Kelly. A BDR t-shirt. Left: Ivy came to Canada just last month after being found ill and with a broken leg by her Egyptian rescuer. She is doing well.

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Neighbours of Note: The Wortley Village Rink Crew

Jason Bates, Mike Kadour, Andrew Cammaert, Greg Veitch, Steve Bushell, Matt Gosnell, Adam Pope, Max Turnbull, Craig Naus. Mike Kadour also thanked others not in the photo: Paul Rolo, Joe Lapthorne, Ken Schmitt, Jason Gehard, Dale Irwin, Mark Woodward, Chris Mackie, Dave Palma, Rob Whitmill, and others.

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Page 4 Wortley Villager • March 2022

room march 8 to 19 written and adapted for the stage by Emma Donoghue Music & Lyrics by Cora Bissett and Kathryn Joseph A co-production with Covent Garden Productions and Mirvish Productions written and adapted for the stage by Emma Donoghue Music & Lyrics by Cora Bissett and Kathryn Joseph A co-production with Covent Garden Productions and Mirvish Productions North Amer i can Premi ere ! North Amer i can Premi ere ! march 8 to 19

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Ward 11 Update By Stephen Turner Councillor Ward 11

City of London 226-927-0765 Construction time again.

Cross-section through bridge

0.4m buffer

0.4m buffer

1.5m bike lane

2.5m sidewalk

4.0m multi-use sidewalk

3.5m traffic lane

3.5m traffic lane

(2-way bike)

Some big changes are coming to Old South and they’re about to start soon! Over the next two years, two major projects will have some big impacts on how we get in and out of our neighbourhood. First on the list is the replacement of the Victoria Bridge. This is the bridge over the Thames River at Ridout St. Built in 1926, the 96-year- old bridge is nearing the end of its useful life. The structure, known as a Warren pony truss bridge, is corroding and does not meet today’s standards to support vehicular and active transportation. Construction of the new bridge will start in March and continue until May of 2023 and will involve a complete closure of Ridout for the duration. Detour routes and traffic calming are being developed to minimize the impact on the neighbourhood. For pedestrians and cyclists, a temporary bridge will run from Thames Park connecting to the Thames Valley Parkway and Horton Street on the other side. The new bridge will be a steel through arch design featuring a widened deck to accommodate a multi-use pathway that will connect the Thames Valley Parkway to Thames Park along its west side. On its east side, there will be a separated bicycle lane and sidewalk. The beautiful design was chosen so that it could be a feature entrance into the neigbourhood. As well, the tennis courts in Thames Park will be resurfaced along with some restoration to tree plantings by the courts and at the park’s entrance. While this work is being done, preparatory work will start on Wharncliffe Rd South for the rail bridge and intersection replacement at Horton St. The main construction will begin in the summer of 2023 once Victoria Bridge is reopened to traffic to avoid having two major North – South corridors closed at the same time. This large project will involve replacing the train bridge and underpass on Wharncliffe, lowering the Wharncliffe / Horton intersection for a safer approach and removing one of London’s worst bottlenecks, replacing the trunk

Design overview

95.6 m bridge length

South

North

Side view

Pathway below bridge

sewer to Greenway wastewater treatment plant and repairing the Wharncliffe Rd bridge over the river. It is truly a feat of engineering! I know that these projects will cause some inconvenience during their construction but they are key to improving all forms of mobility in London and enhancing our connection to the rest of the city. By visiting the city’s website for these projects, you can sign up for updates and see the all the plans and timelines. You can find more information at: https://getinvolved.london.ca/victoriabridge and

St. Patrick’s Day is March 17. Inquire with your LOCAL shops and restaurants about their St. Patrick’s Day Specials!

Nominated Neighbour – Sponsored by Sidetrack: AWortley Café

“David Pauloff from Bruce Street has been cleaning up garbage in our parks and streets for years now, and he does it for hours at a time! He also volunteers for Meals on Wheels, bringing food to the elderly and invalid. He is a real peach, and gives so freely of his own time to make our city better.” Sookie Mei David and his wife Dinah have lived in the Old South since 2012. Enjoying retirement after a career in Toronto that ranged from animation cameraman to assistant manager at a major bank, David enjoys volunteering and just doing positive things. “Moving to Wortley Village was the best decision we could have made,” says David. “Dinah and I love our neighbours and our lives here.”

To thankDavid for his community service, and Sookie for nominating him, Sidetrack: AWortley Café has invited themeach in to enjoy a beverage of their choice, on the house. 136 Wortley Road • www.sidetrack.cafe To nominate your neighbour, email [email protected]

DAVID PAULOFF

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Page 6 Wortley Villager • March 2022

The Coldest Night of the Year Mission Services Coldest Night of the Year is a “winterrific family-friendly walk to raise money for local charities serving people experiencing homelessness and poverty challenges”. Participants are encouraged to put together a team, solicit donations and take a 2km – 5km walk during the month of February to support Mission Services London and to increase awareness of the challenges of homelessness. At press-time, 222 walkers (41 teams) had registered to participate. “Wow. It’s been 11 years since I started participating in the walk,” exclaimed Deborah Phibbs, of Old South. “I thought it was a great idea for participants to think about what it would be like to be out in the cold with no place to go. The first year, I went by myself, but then I decided to gather a team from my church members and friends. We’ve been the Village People since then. Some years it has been wet and cold and other years not too bad. But, we have warm clothes, food and a place to go. Others are not so fortunate, so we walk to support them.” Learn more at https://cnoy.org/location/london Mardi Gras in the Village Last year when Roberta Cory learned that Mardi Gras parades had been cancelled inNewOrleans due to the pandemic and that people there were decorating their homes instead, she spearheaded the London Mardi Gras House Floats project. Due to the community enthusiasm, Mardi Gras in the Village is being held again this year on March 1, although many participants will leave their decorations up throughout March and April. Follow London Mardi Gras House Floats on Facebook for updates and more photos.

Deborah Phibbs and Julie Chapman Watch for the April edition of the Wortley Villager to learn about some of the other Old South participants in the Coldest Night of the Year Walk.

When the winter gets grey, the artistic amongst us get CRAZY! Taking a cue from New Orleans where the Mardi Gras parades

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Page 7

Wortley Villager March 2022 •

Neighbour of Note: FabienneHaller The London Abused Women’s Centre (LAWC) is a feminist agency providing abused and exploited women and girls over the age of 12 with hope and help. LAWC also provides support and counselling to family members of women and girls who have been prostituted/sex trafficked, including women and girls who are missing or disappeared. Fabienne Haller is the Fund Development Coordinator at LAWC and has worked at the agency since 2011. She coordinates LAWC’s annual Shine the Light on Abuse campaign in November, as well as the Annual International Women’s Day Breakfast & Auction in March. Asked what is most inspiring about her work, Fabienne reflects, “I am inspired daily by the incredibly brave, resilient women and girls that walk through our doors. In my role as Fund Development and Shine the Light on Woman Abuse campaign coordinator I have the honour of working with many organizations, community members, and supporters locally and across the globe, who are dedicated in making a difference in their communities. Working at the London Abused Women’s Centre has taken away the blinders that used to prevent me from seeing past the surface of many situations.” The Annual international Woman’s Day breakfast is in its 22nd year. “LAWC has handled the challenges COVID presented regarding the event brilliantly by being innovative and forward thinking,” says Fabienne. “The 2022 breakfast is in the format of a live virtual morning show. Simply relax, grab a warm beverage and whatever breakfast snack your heart desires and enjoy the program in the comfort of your home or office. Our special guest this year is Cherry Smiley. Cherry is an artist and feminist activist from the Nlaka’pamux (Thompson) and Diné (Navajo) Nations”. “Looking to next year, whatever 2023 has in the stars for us, we will be sure to throw an International Woman’s Day Breakfast event you do not want to miss, be it in-person or virtual,” continued Fabienne. “We invite you to follow us on our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @endwomanabuse. This is the best way to read about current Violence Against Women (VAW) issues and learn about our upcoming events.” Fabienne’s family has lived at the same address in Old South for 31 years. “We raised our now-grown daughters right in our beloved 1912 home that was built for Elizabeth and Emily

Knott. Emily was a teacher at Wortley Road School. When we moved here in 1991, quite a few neighbours still remembered Elizabeth and Emily who lived in the house until the end of their lives. I would love to meet some of their family! To this day the house still oozes Emily and Elizabeth’s ‘Woman Power’ vibe!” “Old South is such an amazing community,” enthuses Fabienne. “From the get-go our neighbours have been part of our extended family. Some of my favorite things in Old South are the Wortley Roadhouse, a haven for top-notch live music and camaraderie, the annual Gathering on the Green, the OSCO Christmas Tree Sale, and the evening programs at Tecumseh Community School (located in Tecumseh Public School). And talking about Tecumseh PS: The epic effort by the community in 2005/2006 to save the school from closure is an historic event no one in our family ever forgets. During that year the Old South community Fabienne and Emmie

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Page 8 Wortley Villager • March 2022

successfully brought into reality the wise words of Chief Tecumseh: ‘The single twig breaks – but the bundle is strong’. 17 years later the school is still open, providing education to many children while standing proud as a symbol of strength and unity in our community”. Fabienne also enjoys Old South’s natural spaces. “One of my favourite things to do is getting lost in the incredible natural resource we have access to from our doorsteps. Our animosh Emmie has been a solid companion venturing along the Deshkan Ziibi with me for many years. Emmie and I continue to have many an adventure, following the off-the-track paths between Wortley Road and Egerton Street. We encountered a beautiful coyote once while exploring the bush in our neighbourhood, as well as many deer, and several eagles. The memories and experiences of these adventures live with me forever.” 22nd Annual International Woman’s Day Breakfast: Friday, March 4th from 8AM – 9AM Tickets for the virtual breakfast can be purchased through Eventbrite at: www.eventbrite.ca/e/22nd- annual-international-womens-day-breakfast-tickets- 244411229567?aff=ebdssbeac&keep_tld=1 Ticket Sales are open until Wednesday, March 2nd at midnight Ticket Price: $35 each or $300 for a bundle of 10 To learn more about the London Abused Women’s Centre, visit www.lawc.on.ca

The goals of the Shine the Light on Woman Abuse campaign are to raise awareness of men’s violence against women by turning communities purple for the month of November. The campaign was launched in 2010 here in London, and continues to spread across our country and beyond. In 2017 communities in Sweden and Australia adopted the campaign, bringing it to the international level. Learn more at lawc.on.ca/shine-light-woman-abuse-campaign/

National Day of Unplugging – Old South Scavenger Hunt March 5th 10am–3pm

Pick up your scavenger hunt papers at 71 Duchess Ave. (1st stop) Have fun seeing different parts of Old South and finding Little Free Libraries. Search for the clues or, if you like, take some books. Name the Dragon and win the dragon rock painted by Noële Hall. Sponsored by the Old South Community Organization. Visit OSCO on facebook for updates.

Dragon Theme!

“The National Day of Unplugging scavenger hunt brings the community together, gets us out of the house and gives us a break from screens while still being socially distant.” Margaret Hopkins

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Wortley Villager March 2022 •

Neighbour of Note: KenKennedy Ken Kennedy has always been an airplane enthusiast. “My father was a pilot in the RAF, and as a child I built balsa wood models. I joined Air Cadets where I earned my private licence at Malton (now Pearson), then I spent 30 years as a pilot in the RCAF,” Ken explains. As a student pilot, Ken flew the Chipmunk, Harvard, Tutor and T-33. As a graduate pilot, he instructed on Tutors and Otters then flew the Argus on maritime patrol. “That was followed by my best job, flying the classic T-33 out of CFB North Bay. I got very proficient and learned to love this classic trainer, derived from a pioneering WWII jet fighter,” enthuses Ken. When Ken heard that the Jet Aircraft Museum, located 2465 Aviation Lane in London was buying T-33s, he jumped at the chance to get involved and to share his expertise. As the museum’s volunteer tour guide, he enjoys the fellowship of the other aviation enthusiasts and informing visitors about jet aviation history, particularly in Canada. “I get a great sense of fulfilment sharing my knowledge and experience to “educate and amuse” both visitors and other volunteers,” smiles Ken. Ken’s favourite Jet Aircraft Museum aircraft is the Red Knight T-33. “I amproud to have trained its pilots and groundcrew, and to consult with our licensed aviation mechanic. I get particular satisfaction as part of the JAM Education Program which covers aviation aspects of the Grade Six curriculum. The enthusiastic youngsters, all of whom love their time at JAM, definitely make our efforts satisfying and worthwhile. And the teachers seem to enjoy getting paid to sit around while we, the unpaid, do the work!,” laughs Ken. Ken moved to Wortley Village in 1992 to be with Mary who has been an enthusiastic Villager since 1982. They love the neighbourhood spirit of the area, the trees and the mix of older housing from tiny bungalows to 3-story walkups to grand mansions. They enjoy the many amenities of Wortley Village, all within walking distance as well as the proximity to downtown and to the Thames Valley Parkway. The JET AIRCRAFT MUSEUM (JAM)’s mission is to “create and maintain a dynamic and living history of the modern age Royal Canadian Air Force and to provide permanent honour for those valiant Canadian men and women who flew these aircraft with distinction in periods of war, peace, and peace keeping,” In short, the mission is to ‘Preserve, Educate, and Soar’. A Charitable Organization, JAM focuses on the acquisition, display, preservation and maintenance of historic Canadian

Top: Ken looking less friendly than his usual self – visitors enjoy his entertaining tours of the museum. Above: in the cockpit of the Red Knight. Photos by Gary Krakower. Below: JAM’s Red Knight takes flight. Photo by Jim C Fisk. aircraft, housing aircraft, historical artifacts, records, and salient memorabilia, while simultaneously keeping representative historic aircraft in the air whenever and wherever major aviation events are held across Canada and at appropriate international centres. For more information, including sponsorship and membership opportunities, tours or the Grade 6 Education Program, visit http://jetaircraftmuseum.ca. Would you like to fly in a vintage military jet training aircraft? Or would you like to give someone an incredible experience as a gift? For details, visit http://jetaircraftmuseum.ca/flights

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Page 10 Wortley Villager • March 2022

South Collegiate Alumni Dr. Earl Plunkett by Connie Weir

who certainly deserves to be included on our Wall of Recognition for South’s 100th: “100 Names for 100 Years”. Visit http://southalumni.ca to learn more about the South Collegiate Alumni Association. Editor’s Note: Dr. Plunkett’s son Steve is a local vintage car collector and philanthropost who provides use of his estate just south west of London for the Hyde Park Lions Country Cruizin’ and other charitable events.

Did you know that a South Collegiate grad was one of a select group of medical experts whose research led to the development of the first birth-control pill? Did you know that prior to becoming an internationally respected physician, he was an aspiring singer who helped finance his way through medical school at Western by singing at places like the Grand Theatre, Stork Club, and Wonderland Gardens? That he recorded songs on the RCA label using the

pseudonym “Don Harding” and even had his own radio show? Dr. Earl Plunkett (’41), lived at 37 Cathcart Street while attend- ing South Collegiate. During his time there, he sang in the Glee Club, and served on both the students’ council and the yearbook’s editorial staff. His future wife, Corinne (Aziz), sister of well-known London artist, Philip Aziz (’40) also attended South, graduating in 1946. After finishing his training at Duke, Dr. Plunkett returned to London where he taught at the University of Western Ontario’s medical school for many years. From 1968 to 1982, he served as Chair of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department. During this time, he worked to bring in vitro fertilization technology to Canada and established a successful centre at UWO. He is also credited with developing the first hormone replacement drugs. In addition to his work in developing the birth-control pill, Dr. Plunkett worked with renowned neurosurgeon, Dr. Charles Drake, researching the hormonal connections in both breast and prostate cancers, work which resulted in major breakthroughs in the field of endocrinology. Nationally, he served as Chair and Director of the Canadian Committee on Fertility Research, was a member of the Advisory Committee to the Minister of Health and the President of the Canadian Fertility Society, as well as a Fellow of the American Gynecological Society. After Dr. Plunkett passed away in 1997, his son Steve established thePlunkett Foundation inhishonour,witha$5millionendowment to support medical research and provide equipment to local hospitals. Although the Foundation wound up in 2015, its contributions to the London community during its 17 years of operationwere impressive. Dr. Earl Plunkett was a truly exceptional researcher, teacher, and doctor; a South alumnus we can all be very proud of and

Pi Tho old Pu Lon wit ins Wa His wa of Ce lea Ma wit Hig sum or enj pla spe The wa 200 line In Ch her intr Lea

How South London Got its Name After much discussion, London South, which had never had a separate municipality, but was part of Westminster Township, though in reality a suburb of London, came into line, tempted by the advantage of city improvements. There was an effort at one time to call this suburb “St. James Park” and at another time “New Brighton” but as London South as it was generally known until it became the sixth ward in 1890. From the Naming of London Streets 1905, Harriett Priddis www.partridgelandscaping.com brian @ partridgelandscaping.com We provide a vast range of services for both commercial and residential properties in London and surrounding areas Call Now for your Free Consulation 519-204-2657

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Page 11

Wortley Villager March 2022 •

BUYING A HOME: complete the tran EXCLUSIVELY LAZAR LAW

Evolving over 85 Years – A. Millard George Funeral Home

In October 2013, a sister company, Cremation London & Middlesex, was established to provide a less expensive alternative to traditional cremation or burial services. “ We are presently in the process of renovating the funeral home’s reception centre which is located on the south east corner of the property,” explains David. “The addition will more than double our current capacity and allow for more tables and chairs. The reception centre will be available for funeral receptions and can be rented for birthday parties, baby showers, anniversary celebrations, retirement parties etc..” In addition, AMG has recently created a dedicated Compassion Suite for those interested in Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID). AMG started receiving calls in 2019 asking for this service. The Compassion Suite is a comfortable space for end-of-life procedures for those who prefer not to engage in medically assisted dying in hospital or their own home. The space has a medical bed, an electric recliner chair, soft lighting, local artwork, furniture for guests and a television monitor to display family photos. There is a separate living room for family who wish to be close but not bed-side.

Family-owned and operated, the A. Millard George Funeral Home (AMG) has been an Old South landmark for more than 85 years. It’s owned and operated by David and Christie Mullen who took ownership in 2015 when David’s father, Paul J. Mullen, retired. Originally named London Funeral Service, and located on Dundas Street, then King Street, property was purchased at 190 Wortley Road, where the A. Millard George Funeral Home was operated from 1940 to 1968. The new funeral home, with updated amenities, was built at 60 Ridout Street South in 1965. In August 2010 a renovation of the entire main floor was completed to ensure the facility was wheel chair accessible. The visitation room and chapel can be set up in various configurations depending on the family’s needs and tastes.

David and Christie are proud to support local charities. Long-time sponsors of the Elmwood Lawn Bowling Club, they have also donated to the London Regional Cancer Program, Bereaved Families of Ontario Southwest Region, London Food Bank, Diabetes Canada (D Camp) and the Humane Society. Their 2021 efforts supported the Unity Project for Relief of Homelessness in London. In 2022, they will donating to the ALS Society.

To advertise here, please contact [email protected] Christie and David Mullen (right) present Chuck (Charlene) Lazenby, Jessika Lang and Jenny Butchart of the Unity Project with a donation. To learn more about A. Millard George Funeral Home visit www.amgfh.com or to learn more about Cremation London & Middlesex visit cremationlondon.com.

Page 1 2 Wortley Villager • March 2022

Mrs. Beattie’s Neighbours by Paul Prince (continued from January 2022) I am enjoying the challenge of researching and writing these articles. They give us a glimpse of the hard working people who were Mrs. Beattie’s neighbours. Who they were, where they lived and sometimes how they lived. One of Annie’s neighbours was Alexander Gauld and his family. Alexander was born in 1818 in Auldearn, Scotland with his wife, Ann McPherson, born in nearby Nairn. They came to our area sometime around 1860 with their 6 children. All of their children lived to a good age as did Alexander and Ann. Alexander was a merchant tailor by trade who had his own shop back home in Scotland employing at least two. By 1864 Alexander and Ann had brought their family to London where Alexander opened his own shop on Dundas between Richmond and Market Lane with his home on Fullerton. The London Free Press took a picture of this area that includes his shop in circa 1880. Gauld’s shop is the store on the right next to Manchester House. In later years this stretch of Dundas became Simpson’s department store. By 1872 the Gauld’s lived on Teresa Street at Alma. Byron Ave was called Alma until 1890. The 1872 Birdseye View of London shows the Gauld property. The house just west of the Gauld’s is 69 Alma and was the home of Mrs. Ellen Morgan from the early 1880’s until she passed in 1897. Her house still exists on Byron Ave. Alexander and his wife Ann were two of the prominent old south residents who were original members of the Knox Church in 1884. The Knox Church was at the corner of Wortley Road and Bruce Street and existed until the 1970’s at which time it closed with its assets transferred to Wesley Church on Askin Street.

At that time Wesley became Wesley-Knox. My wife and I were married at Wesley-Knox in 1979. The Knox Church was was torn down and is now condominium apartments. Alexander died in 1894 at the ripe old age of 76 with Ann living in their home until she passed in 1897. TheMcClarybrothersOliver andJohnopenedwhat becameMcClary Manufacturing in 1850. McClary Manufacturing became one of London’s largest employers with them making plow’s, stoves and other items for Canada and the British empire. The McClary’s lived close by the Gauld’s on High Street. The McClary story has been well covered but what is not commonly known is that Alexander and Ann’s son John Irvine Gauld married Oliver and Martha’s daughter Eliza Victoria in 1878. John and Eliza went on to have 7 children. After Ann passed in 1897 her estate was purchased by William Copp. This will lead into the next few articles about more of Mrs Annie’s neighbours and how the Gauld home and the rest of the estate was developed. Paul Prince is retired from London Life and an avid history buff living in Old South. Learn more at https://prince-cva.ca

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Wortley Villager March 2022 •

What’s Happening at Landon Library The Village Vibe Submitted by Jennifer Quinton Paper Bag Princess Day: Friday March 4th Celebrate Robert Munsch’s Paper Bag Princess by picking up a Discovery Bag at the Library! Ages 3+ March Break: March 12 to March 19 Visit www.lpl.ca/MarchBreak2022 to see all the virtual and in-person programming taking place. Registrations for all programs opens on February 28th. Stop by the Library to pick up a Discovery Bag for an at home activity! Ages 3+

Betty White Challenge benefits Animalert Animalert thanks the 108 donors (so far) who sent donations as part of the Betty White Challenge. The almost $5000 raised will assist the organization to care for and find good homes for needy pets. While Bill hopes that the Betty White Challenge will live on every January 17, it’s never too late to donate. Congratulations to Animalert for winning the Platinum Award (top award) in the 2021 Community Votes Program in the Non- Profit category. “We are thrilled to receive this award in our 45th year!” said Bill Warder. Learn more at www.animalert.ca Books

Katie’s KITCHEN

As a tribute to her mother, and the love she expressed for her family through cooking, Marcella (Marcy) Bauman published Katie’s Kitchen to preserve and share the family’s favourite recipes. “In the Amish tradition of simple and hearty food, the recipes reflect the rural community where we lived,” reflects Marcy. With recipes for mains, sides, preserves, pastries, sweets and

Marcella Bauman

snacks and more, beautifully photographed, this self-published cookbook can be purchased at Wortley Village Pharmasave, or directly from the author ([email protected]). Sing Joy – with the Karen Schuessler Singers Saturday, March 5, 2022 – 7:30 PM Wesley-Knox United Church. Every culture sings. In this concert, the singing group explores singing as a means of heightening the intensity of life’s important moments and events, as well as encouraging inspiration and fortitude in community. Ticket info at: https://kssingers.com

Jennifer Quinton, Carla Rogers (London Public Library’s Development Fund Administrator), David Flett, Gemmell Neilson and Eric Shepperd. Through their Christmas tree fundraiser, theOldSouthCommunity Organization (OSCO) were able to donate $3,900 in support of London Public Library’s Landon Branch. The trees sold out in just 6 days! OSCO thanks all of the volunteers and community members who participated.

Marque Smith at LondonWine Bar Wortley Village resident Marque Smith will per- form as pianist and vocalist at the London Wine Bar (420 Talbot) March 24, April 28 and May 5th.

Local Stories. Local Theatre. Catch the world première of Adam Corrigan Holowitz’s dreamscape explor- ation of siblinghood and the golden age of radio. Live performances March 18-26 at 630 Somerville 630 Dundas. Learn more at www.alvegoroottheatre.com

April 22, 23 and 24.

https://londonstudiotour.ca

KEEP US ON OUR FEET – BUY A SEAT at the historic Hyland Cinema. Engraved name plaques for chair arms: Ask about on-screen and marque advertising opportunities. HylandCinema.com Reno-Eviction fundraiser Sharon Wise, a dance teacher, dance chore- ographer, vocalist and accordionist whose work opportunities have been affected by the pandemic, needs assistance with unex- pected medical expenses and moving ex- penses. Visit GoFundMe.com and search for Sharon Wise Rent,Food,Medical to assist. For a copy of the Hot Latkes Klezmer CD she performed on (shipping plus GFM donation) contact Sharon at [email protected]

Westland Gallery International Women’s Day Exhibition 2022 February 22nd – March 12th 2022

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Page 14 Wortley Villager • March 2022

Cultural Cooking Beef Bourgignon by Jeremi Austin

This is one of my all-time favorite dishes. The first time I had this was at Davids Bistro many years ago and I was an instant fan. It is rich, full of flavour and always a crowd pleaser. It’s great for a large group, simple to prepare and can be ready to go in advance. I have tried numerous different recipes, pulling the best parts from each while adding my own variations along the way. Much of the preparation is traditional while in other areas I have modified slightly. You can do the same and after time will develop your own favorite way to prepare. Ingredients Olive oil Salt and Pepper 2 large carrots chopped into bite size pieces 1 large yellow onion sliced 2-3 cloves of garlic 2-3 tablespoon tomato paste ½ lb thick cut smoked bacon sliced 2.5 pounds good quality stewing beef cut into 1.5-2” cubes. I like to use beef cheeks if I can find them. 1/4 cup Cognac (optional) 1 bottle full body dry red wine. Beef broth Small bunch of fresh thyme tied with butcher string 4 tablespoons butter 1 pound cremini mushrooms quartered ½ cup frozen pearl onions. (These are tough to find but in London are regularly stocked in small containers at Remark) 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour Directions Preheat your BBQ to high (or your oven to 475 degrees F.) I like to prep all the ingredients in advance. The dish will start to come together quickly and having everything ready will simplify the process.

is lightly browned and starting to soften slightly. Add the garlic and cook for a few minutes then deglaze the pan with the Cognac. Add the tomato paste and stir to coat all the vegetables. Cook for a few more minutes stirring frequently until the tomato paste starts to brown slightly. You will have bits stuck to the bottom throughout the process but this will help build the flavor. Add the bottle of wine to the pot scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to release all the bits. Add beef, bacon, thyme bunch to the pot and enough beef stock to just cover the meat. Cover and place on very low heat on the stove top. In a large pan melt two tablespoons of butter

and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Saute mushrooms until browned and add to the pot along with the pearl onions. Place covered pot in the 325 deg oven and cook for 1.5-2 hours or until beef is fork tender. Once finished mash together 2 tablespoons of butter and the flour until well incorporated. Stir into the pot slowly. This is a great trick to thicken and finish the dish. I like to serve with a rustic mashed potato, just use your favorite recipe, and a good quality bread on the side. Enjoy!

To advertise here, please contact [email protected] Add carrots and sliced onions to the dutch oven. Season with salt and pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until everything Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Grill (or roast in oven on a pan with a rack) until deep brown on all sides. Set aside once complete and reduce heat in the oven to 325 degrees F. While the beef is searing cook bacon in large Dutch oven. Once browned, set aside in a small bowl. Remove excess fat from the dutch oven leaving approximately 2 tablespoons (and all the little brown bits on the bottom)

Jeremi, who resides in Wortley Village with his family (Georgia, Amanda and Bella above), is a Commercial Multi-engine Instrument rated pilot and Managing Director for Jet It, a private aviation company offering hybrid ownership of HondaJet and Gulfstream G150 aircraft. He’s also renowned as a great cook! Learn more about Jet It at https://gojetit.com

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Wortley Villager

March 2022 •

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Now that spring weather is nally here we all want to get out of our houses and do some exploration. If you are like most of us, you likely haven't been using your car very much these last few months. It is a good idea to keep up with the routine maintenance of your vehicle before hitting the open road for your rst adventure of the spring. Your car may not be due for an oil change based on the elapsed mileage (distance since last oil change), but, if it has been sitting for some time it may be due for it's next service. Make sure to check the condition of all of your tires before your next road trip as well. If you aren't sure if your car requires service give us a call or drop us a line at www.wortleyautoservice.com. Safe Driving, Matt Smith