Dear Editor,
“You’re not from here.” The dismissive refrain I’ve heard too many times to recount. Or: “ You’re one of those spoiled brats from Toronto.” This was my first encounter with a member of Strathroy municipal council when asking about the disposition of Southfield Park in the heart of Strathroy. He came to my house riding his bike like a concurring hippie with long silver locks and a disarming yet dismissive manner. I can’t remember his name, but it was made certain that he was for sure from here!
For the record, I was born in Montreal and moved to Toronto when I was three. At the age of three both my parents were killed, and I was then adopted by the Tedesco family of Toronto.
I later learned my ‘Barkley’ ancestors hailed from a small town in eastern Ontario named South Mountain. My ancestors fought in the American Revolutionary War on the side of the British and were run out the Mohawk Valley in New York State near Albany because the Americans were such sore winners. My ancestors and thus me are United Empire Loyalist, but these personal historic facts should be irrelevant - I’m making a point that everyone who lives in Strathroy except for the First Nation’s people are not originally from here. That if you are here or there or anywhere your opinion and input matter.
I’m here to stay Strathroy - love it or leave it good folks!
Thanks again,
Paul ( Barkley ) Tedesco,
Strathroy Resident
