February 15, 2009
The London Chapter, in association with the Canadian Diabetes Association, undertook the creation of the Global Garden at Banting House National Historic Site of Canada — the birthplace of insulin — as its project for 2008.

The Global Garden is an initiative involving the transformation of Sir Frederick G. Banting Square in London, Ont., from a passive garden space, featuring the Flame of Hope and the statue of Sir Frederick Banting, to a more appropriate ceremonial and expanded Carolinian and native species garden where visitors of Banting House National Historic Site of Canada can relax and reflect. This garden is a component of a neighbourhood revitalization plan and access to The Global Garden will never be restricted. A large steel and copper globe, located in the centre of the garden, will serve as a symbol of the ongoing research conducted around the world in the search for a cure for this disease, which has reached epidemic proportions.

The opening ceremony was held on Nov. 14 with approximately 150 people in attendance, including LO president Robert Adams and LO’s executive director Tony DiGiovanni. There will be permanent signage with the LO name, logo and a listing of all member companies that donated time and material to the project.

Thank you to the following members, volunteers and companies for their unconditional support in this project: Atlas Hardscapes, Brampton Brick, C.O.B. Oaks Concrete Products, Canadale Nurseries, Connon Nurseries/ NVK Holdings, Custom Rock Creations, Echo Power Equipment (Canada), Escapes Outdoor Living Designs, Fanshawe College - Landscape Design 2nd year, - Fisher Landscape and Golf Supply, Lafarge Aggregates, Landmark Enterprises/Tony Decaluwe Trucking, PGS Landscape, Sifton Properties/Riverbend Golf Community, Stone In Style, Stratford Farm Equipment, TLC Professional Landscaping, Try Recycling, Turf Revolution, Union Gas and Valleybrook Gardens (Ont).

“We thank all the volunteers for their generous support in the completion of The Global Garden. There are so many important causes in our community, and the thoughtful support demonstrated allows the continued good work of Landscape Ontario and the London Chapter,” said chapter president Tim Cradduck.