Reader to Reader: July 27, 2024

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Just singing praise

London residents know the thunderstorms and winds we have had recently have caused havoc with our trees and power lines.

I just want to thank Sabertooth Tree Service and the expert advice of arborist Lucas Wilson, Jeff and the crew for all the hard work they put in to fell the remainder of my beautiful sugar maple, which was cut in half by the storm.

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It was evident that the remainder would go, too, as it was dying inside, and with the aid of another windstorm, it would land on my neighbour’s house.

Fortunately, the part that broke off only damaged my gardens, pear trees, yews, raspberry bushes, grass and a section of the fence.

Lucas and his crew did an excellent fell of the remaining part of the tree – roughly 90 feet tall – and cleaned up the property doing an excellent job, handling me with kindness and courtesy.

Thank you. Well done, gentlemen, and in record time.

Beverley Douglas, London

Well done, St. Joe’s

Having had a cataract removed before COVID knocked us for a loop and then having the second one removed a couple of weeks ago at the Cataract Eye Clinic in St. Joe’s Hospital, I have nothing but great remarks for the quality of care I received.

The staff was most informative, friendly and capable for each of my procedures. With all of the pressure under which they are working, they certainly need to be commended for doing their jobs and doing them well.

I consider it a very professional department. Thank you very much.

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John Goldrick, London

Thank you, bus driver

I boarded Bus 173 on the 2 route at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, July 22.

The driver assisted a young girl in a wheelchair and an elderly man with a walker. A distressed homeless man with two large bags then boarded, causing concern due to his behaviour and smell.

Throughout, the driver stayed calm, even when the man kicked the elderly gentleman. I reported this to the driver, who handled the situation capably.

Many passengers thanked the driver for his composure under stress.

Erika Simpson, London

Grateful for support

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Stratford council for its continued support of Stratford Summer Music.

The community grant we received is essential in enabling us to continue delivering high-quality music performances, educational initiatives and free events that have delighted Stratford residents and visitors for the past 23 seasons.

We also express our gratitude to our patrons and generous donors who make all this possible. We continue to strive to remain accessible and inclusive, offering more than half of our events free of charge.

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In collaboration with Destination Stratford, we are working to expand our programming into the off-season months, aiming to establish Stratford as a year-round destination.

Stratford Summer Music kicked off its 24th Season July 18. You can find details at stratfordsummermusic.ca.

The arts community has faced significant challenges as non-profits like ours strive for sustainable funding models. We’ve made substantial progress, and it’s all thanks to your support.

Thank you for standing by us!

Crystal L. Spicer, executive director, and Jeremy Wreford, board chair, Stratford Summer Music

Male singers welcome

If you are a lead, tenor, baritone or bass and you always wanted to try a cappella singing, visit us at a rehearsal.

The London Men of Accord is a male voice a cappella choir performing songs predominately from the Barbershop Harmony Society. We rehearse at the German Canadian Club (1 Cove Rd. in London) Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. Visitors are welcome.

We are looking for new voices; join us for a practice. Not sure what part you can sing? We can help with that.

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Visit menofaccord.com for more information.

Bruce Stead, London

McGuffin reunion

The 2024 McGuffin Reunion will be held Sunday, Aug. 18, at noon at the pavilion in Granton Centennial Park, 100 High St. in Granton. A potluck lunch will start at 12:30 p.m. sharp. Please bring food to share, plates, utensils and drinks. Please call if you require more details or have any questions.

Jane McComb, 519-520-0492

Drive-thru barbecue

St. George’s Anglican Church is having a Drive Thru Chicken BBQ on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 172 King St. in Thorndale.

Adult meals include a half chicken, baked potato, cole slaw, roll with butter and dessert.

Pick up your dinner between 4:30 and 6:30 p.m.

For tickets – $25 for adults, $15 for kids under 12 – call Laurie at 519-461-1901.

Laurie McDonald, Thorndale

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