📚 A children’s book with a big local impact

I took a morning walk over to the farmers’ market at Masonville Mall on Friday, and it was such a nice way to start the day. There was a local artist playing music, along with some lovely crafts to browse. I came across lots of fresh produce and meat from local vendors. And, of course, I could not leave without a few goodies for Emma and I.  Next time, I’ll take a larger bag!

Does your local area have a farmer’s market?  I’d love to highlight it if you do.

The Gist: London construction company J-AAR has launched a children’s book, Building Roads, Building Hope, in support of Ronald McDonald House Southwestern Ontario. The book introduces kids to the teamwork behind construction, with copies available for a minimum $25 donation and all proceeds going to the charity.

Why It Matters: J-AAR has committed at least $150,000 to the organization through the book, fundraisers and community events. It’s a creative way for a local company to support families facing some of their hardest days.

The Gist: ENRICH (Empowering the Next Generation through Research Internships in Child Health) gives local high school students the chance to spend their summer inside working labs at the Children’s Health Research Institute. Paired with faculty mentors, they help with real child-health research and get hands-on experience most students wouldn’t normally see until university.

Why It Matters: London is home to a major health and research community, and programs like this give local students an early look at where a future in science or medicine could take them. It’s also a meaningful way to help grow the next generation of researchers and health-care professionals right here at home.

A reader recently asked us to share more information about road construction around London, and wow, is there ever a lot of it. If you are anything like me, it feels as though every turn leads to roadwork, reduced lanes or another set of orange cones.

The City’s interactive map shows current and upcoming construction, road closures and lane restrictions, and lets you search by street to see what may affect your route. You can also sign up for updates through the City’s website to stay informed. Check it before heading out and save yourself an unexpected tour of London’s side streets.

The Early Bird brings plenty of personality to Talbot Street, with a colourful dining room, upbeat atmosphere and a menu full of playful takes on brunch favourites. Breakfast here feels a little louder, bolder and more fun than the usual eggs-and-toast stop.

Try the Chicken and Waffle with bacon jam and your choice of hot honey, syrup or gravy. Or go classic with the Benny, layered with peameal bacon, poached eggs and hollandaise on a toasted milk bun, with crispy homies on the side.

The Hyland Cinema keeps old-school movie magic alive with one big screen, traditional theatre seating and a lineup that skips easily from new indie films to cult classics. Owners Moira and Ali Adlan have run London’s independent arthouse cinema since 2004, complete with roomy seats, reasonably priced tickets and special 35mm and 70mm screenings that feel worlds away from the multiplex.

A $20 annual membership saves you $4 on most tickets. For something a little sillier, CatVideoFest 2026 hits the screen Aug. 8, 9 and 11, with 10% of proceeds going to Humane Society London & Middlesex. Just note that member pricing does not apply to this event.

Need a great realtor in London or Port Stanley?
Email Silver Phoenix at [email protected]. He’ll focus on your lifestyle goals and neighbourhood needs to find the right home in a community you’ll love being a part of.

🎶 London Majors Sing Out | Labatt Memorial Park | 08/07 | More
Four-part harmony chorus singing live at the historic ballpark.

🎭 Helen of Roy - Play Reading | Original Kids Theatre Company | 08/06 | More
A warmhearted staged play reading performed live at the local youth theatre.

🌴 JJ's London Jamaican Jerk Festival | Covent Garden Market | 08/07-08/09 | More
Savour authentic island spices, lively outdoor rhythms, and sunshine.

🏃🏼‍♂️ Festival Friday: Storybook Amazing Race | Storybook Gardens | 08/07 | More
Friendly park-wide team challenges, live stage entertainment, and splash fun.

🌌 Summer Public Night: Space Debris Re-entries | Cronyn Observatory | 08/08 | More
Stargazing, astronomy demonstrations, and cosmic presentations for all ages.

🎬 Outdoor Movie Night: The Lion King | Windermere Fields | 08/08 | More
Cozy open-air screening of an animated classic under the evening stars.

🧩 Jigsaw Puzzle Speed Competition | Royal Canadian Legion Branch 501 | 08/08 | More
Energetic pair puzzle racing with a surprise challenge and fun prizes.

✨ Royale Lynn w/ MVSSIE & Moore Ave | Rum Runners | 08/06 | More
Country-rock fusion with powerful vocals and rhythms.

🥁 HRZN Fest | Guy Lombardo Pavillion, Springbank Gardens | 08/07-08/08 | More
Sun-soaked Afro house rhythms, Mexican street food, and beach-club energy.

💃🏼 Latin Community Festival '26 | Dundas Place Block #1 | 08/07-08/09 | More
Street culture, authentic regional food stalls, and energetic dance showcases.

🎙️ Stand-Up Showcase: Martha Chaves | Yuk Yuk's Comedy London | 08/08 | More
Sassy, provocative stand-up comedy and satire from an award-winning performer.

🎺 Jeffy B. & The Rumblebees | Guy Lombardo Pavilion, Springbank Gardens | 08/09 | More
Rockabilly grooves performing live under the covered park pavilion.

❓ POP Quiz Tuesday | The Rec Room Masonville Mall | 08/11 | More
Pencil-free pub trivia rounds with lively competition and hearty dishes.

Thanks for reading! We’ll have more updates for you next week!