The Chatham Voice, May 25, 2023

like Paul Zoula had Mitchell’s Bay all to himself on a

night last week while fishing for pickerel and pike.

Fergie’s statue unveiling set for June 10

The Chatham Voice

One of Chatham’s beloved native sons and Canada’s most celebrated

SILENT AUCTION ON NOW

MLB pitcher is set to honoured by his hometown for all time.

On June 10, the commu-

nity will host the Fergie Jenkins Statue and Community Celebration, unveiling a likeness of the baseball star who grew up in Chatham.

The bronze statue, identical to the one of Jenkins that was unveiled at Wrigley Field in Chicago last year, will be presented to the public at the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre at 1:45 p.m.

Jenkins is one of only two Canadians in the Baseball Hall of Fame. He played professional baseball from 1965 to 1983 during which time he was the first Canadian to win the Cy Young award. A premiere pitcher of his era, Jenkins was a National League All-Star for three seasons and finished his career with 284 wins and 3,192 strikeouts.

“When you look at Fergie’s accomplishments in baseball, it is simply amazing,” said Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin

Caniff in a media release. “And the way Fergie has carried himself after his baseball career is equally impressive.”

The unveiling ceremony is supported by a partnership with FirstOntario Credit Union and the municipality.

FirstOntario CEO Lloyd Smith said the credit union is proud to be part of the Chatham community and excited to “join the celebration and play a part in recognizing baseball hero and legend Fergie Jenkins.”

The dedication ceremony takes place at 315 King St. W. in Chatham, and everyone is welcome to attend.

A family-friendly after party will follow at the Sons of Kent Brewing Co. in Chatham and will feature the FirstOntario Family Fun Zone, where the first 300 children will receive a complimentary Rawlings Chicago Cubs

baseball, plus a hotdog and beverage.

Crowley resigns at CKHAF

The head of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation is stepping down.

Mary Lou Crowley, the foundation’s president and CEO, has announced she is moving on to a new role at the St. Thomas Elgin Hospital Foundation.

Crowley has been at the helm of the CKHA Foundation since 2017. Since that time, she has helped bring in bring in millions of dollars

for the hospital, as well as heading up initiatives leading to transformation within the organization.

According to a recent media release, Crowley set the course for a host of significant fundraising drives and projects. Among her achievements, Crowley spearheaded a drive that raised $7.3 million for the foundation’s Diagnostic Imaging campaign, exceeding

the $6.9 million goal. She also oversaw the implementation of one of the first online charitable 50/50 fundraisers in Southwestern Ontario, which has raised more than $1 million in the past four years.

However, under Crowley’s watch, the foundation lost a big fundraising effort for mental health patients for the CKHA in Music for the Mind.

Continued on page 4

Contributed image

A bronze statue of Chatham native Ferguson Jenkins will be unveiled in front of the Civic Centre in Chatham on June 10.

The Chatham Voice

Mary Lou Crowley

Indwell project gets its rezoning

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Despite the concerns of neighbours and some members of council, rezoning has been approved to allow a new Indwell supportive housing build to go forward in Chatham.

At a recent planning meeting, Chatham-Kent council agreed to include supportive housing as a permitted use of the property – the site of the former St. Agnes Catholic school.

Located at 55 Croydon St., the vacant structure is in an established area surrounded by older bungalow-style detached homes.

Various concerns were expressed to council by those who will be Indwell’s future neighbours. Some said the build would devalue their property; others that the architecture doesn’t fit in with the neighbourhood; some said they wouldn’t feel safe; and one resident stated, “recovering people shouldn’t be stacked together.”

Others said they fear there isn’t enough green space or room for a smoking area to accommodate the residents.

Some – including several councillors – took issue with size of the project, which many believed would be smaller. As it stands, Indwell is proposing a 95-unit complex. A total of 71 units would be part of a new three-storey structure, with the remaining 24 housed in the repurposed footprint of the school. The gymnasium would continue to exist as a community amenity.

Some councillors said they would not have voted in favour of the build in March if they had been fully aware of its large scale.

Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy said he thinks the project is a

“terrible fit” for the neighbourhood.

“We don’t have to put things in because it’s a feel-good thing to do,” Bondy explained. “From a planning perspective I don’t think it’s a good idea – it’s a terrible idea.”

Bondy added he didn’t think adding an “institution” to a sleepy, quiet neighbourhood is the right move.

His comments were met by applause and shouts of “thank you” from the gallery.

South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle, who put forward an unsuccessful motion to reduce the size of the facility to 71 units from 95, said he would not have voted in favour of having 95 units on the site.

“We wouldn’t be here today,” Doyle said.

Indwell, a Christian charity that has successfully developed similar supportive housing units in other Ontario cities,

received council’s blessing to proceed in March, with the municipality committing $9.7 million to the project through strategic reserves.

Continued on page 5

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

The former St. Agnes School on Croydon Street in Chatham is the site of the proposed Indwell 95-unit supportive housing development. Despite the complaints of several area residents and a couple of councillors, Chatham-Kent council recently approved rezoing of the property.

Several oppose Indwell plan

Continued from page 3

At the time, council had to make a quick decision in order to meet the federal Rapid Housing Initiative application deadline.

However, Indwell’s project has plenty of support.

In support of the project and the zoning change, Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor referenced the Ontario Human Rights Code which states that all people have the right to housing without discrimination.

“So, I think that it’s important to note when we’re voting on this, we’re really voting on the type of people that can live there and realistically we’re not permitted to do that,” McGregor said.

In speaking to the proposal, Dr. April Rietdyk, manager of community services for the municipality, said projects such as Indwell’s are needed.

“I’m crossing my fingers we receive $14 million in federal funding,” Rietdyk said. “We need supportive housing.”

Her comments were echoed by Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew.

“These are people. These

are tenants. They live in neighbourhoods,” Crew said. “We need this. We need supportive housing. If you can figure out another way to reduce the need for homelessness and homeless people, I’m all in,” Crew added. “No one else has come up with any better solution.

‘We as a council need to move forward or we will be cleaning the bridge again if we don’t,” Crew said in reference to the recent removal of the debris left over from a homelessness encampment under the Third Street Bridge.

Indwell’s Graham Cubitt, director of projects and development, fielded a number of questions about the build from council. He assured them Indwell operates with “integrity” and will continue to work with, and engage with the community.

“All of Indwell’s projects are partnerships with municipalities,” Cubitt explained. “ When we have problems, we try to fix them. To be successful, we have to work together.”

In response to scaling back the size of the build,

CKHAF seeks new CEO

Continued from page 1

The release stated the Foundation is “incredibly grateful for Mary Lou’s inspiration and transformative leadership” and will continue to follow

Cubbitt said Indwell will examine all angles to see if that’s a possibility, while staying with the parameters of the funding guidelines.

According to the planning report, the Chatham

Indwell project is to be developed in two phases. The first would see the empty school revamped for 24 residential units, with the second phase comprised of the new 71unit three-storey struc-

ture.

Based in Hamilton, Indwell was launched in the early 1970s. Their facilities house vulnerable adults in individual apartment units while also supplying onsite so-

cial work supports and programs.

Before construction can proceed, council still needs to consider a site plan application on the build.

her strong example.

The Foundation’s board of directors has started the recruitment process to fill her spot. Crowley will officially say goodbye in mid-July.

“I think that it’s important to note when we’re voting on this, we’re really voting on the type of people that can live there and realistically we’re not permitted to do that.”

- Coun. Brock McGregor

Too visible?

It seems several members of council at least and a number of residents on or near Croydon Street in Chatham would prefer our homeless were nothing more than a dirty little secret.

They sure as heck don’t seem to want to establish a supportive housing effort at the former St. Agnes School on Croydon.

We don’t want them living under the Third Street Bridge. We don’t want them in a short-term homeless shelter on Murray Street. And, apparently, we don’t want them living in housing where they’d get many of the supports they so desperately need.

Where do we want them? In a copse of trees out of sight?

It’s unfair to seek to visually discard Chatham-Kent’s homeless citizens. Out of sight, out of mind is not the way to handle the situation.

The pandemic has only added to our homeless numbers. High inflation in the wake of the pandemic has not helped either.

R.O.C.K. Missions volunteers checking in on the displaced members of our society and the various soup kitchens held by local churches are incredible supports, but they are just that – supports.

They are treatments of the surface wound, not of the underlying cause.

Indwell offers such treatments as providing them with easy access to services so they can learn new skills and make better life choices.

Also, how is it that some councillors who voted to commit funding for a 95-unit project on March 6 seemed surprised at the size of the Indwell plan two months later? It was well known in March that the project could contain 95 units. Councillors attended that meeting and surely they read the report before voting, right? For them to say they were surprised at the size of the project means that either they did not read the report or pay attention in the meeting, or that they were merely politicking for the cameras on May 15.

Some residents may fear there will be issues with their future neighbours. But if we don’t provide supports for our most vulnerable citizens, how will they ever be able to break out of the lowest points in their respective lives? With Indwell’s effort, some of these people will be able to recover from their addiction or mental health issues and become contributing members of society once again.

And that could mean they’ll be future tax-paying citizens who are less judgmental than their neighbours.

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No place for privatized health care in Ontario

Editor: The primary goal of private enterprise is to maximize profits for its investors. There’s nothing wrong with that.

The chief objective of the health-care system in Ontario is to provide accessible, high-quality health care for all. Also an admirable intent.

Kept separate, these two aspirations are fine. The problem arises when one is made subject to the other, as is the case when health care is placed under the auspices of private enterprise – the current direction of the Ford government in Ontario.

Then, every dollar that leaves the health-care system as profit is a dollar not being spent on its intended purpose.

There are those who argue that private enterprise is more efficient and would solve our problems of access and delivery. It’s

a tempting argument to make, but wishful thinking. One needs only to look back to the recent pandemic – specifically to the conditions endured by residents in some privately owned long-term care facilities, for an example of the pitfalls.

In 1998, the Harris government opened the door to private enterprise in the long-term care sector. During the pandemic, the death rate in privately owned long-term care homes was significantly higher and living conditions much worse than in those run by the public sector. In fact, conditions became so bad during the spring of 2020, that the army had to be called in to help clean up the mess. Is this the record we wish to expand in Ontario’s health care sector?

It’s obvious to anyone who has encountered our public healthcare system that it needs reform. Among the various issues, wait times, staffing and facility updates must be addressed. But these can be more effectively dealt with by applying our resources and expertise directly to the problems – publicly.

As a private citizen, what can you do?

You could start by contacting your Chatham-Kent-Leamington Conservative MPP Trevor Jones – if you could find him.

The more effective approach is to show your opposition to privatization by voting in the Ontario Health Coalition’s citizen-run referendum on Friday and Saturday.

Continued on page 9

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Iconic home to be demolished

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative

The Ridgetown Independent Canada’s most photographed house, barring a successful heritage designation, will be demolished later this year.

During a hearing last month, the Chatham-Kent Bylaw Appeal and Property Standards Committee denied an appeal by the property owner to prevent a demolition order of the Guyitt House.

Last fall, the municipality issued a demolition order for the house, built

in 1845, on Talbot Trail, between Palmyra and Clearville.

The house, which has been vacant since 1985, has been in a dilapidated state for decades but has attracted the attention of photographers and painters for years, leading to the claim of being the most photographed home in Canada.

The by-law appeals committee conducted a public hearing recently at the Civic Centre regarding the appeal from property owner Peter Anderson, whose grandparents Roy and Ethel Guyitt bought

the home in 1908.

The committee listened to Anderson’s concerns but upheld the municipality’s decision from last September when the homeowner was notified under the property standards bylaw that he had 14 days to either fix or tear it down due to public safety concerns surrounding the unstable structural condition of the building.

Anderson was issued a new compliance date of Oct. 20 to pursue options to preserve and protect the property or complete work from bringing the

property into compliance with the bylaw. The committee strongly recommended Anderson

implement additional protections to keep people off the property and out of the house during

the extension. Applying for a heritage designation is an option Anderson could pursue.

Image courtesy The Ridgetown Independent

The Guyitt House, located on Talbot Trail, could soon be demolished.

Smoking a factor in 20% of C-K deaths

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Chatham-Kent Public Health officials are concerned the smoking rates here are higher than the provincial average.

And it’s killing people.

Jeff Moco, youth engagement co-ordinator for CK Public Health, said the most recent statistics indicate the rate of tobacco smoking in the province for people aged 15-plus is nine per cent. Here in Chatham-Kent it’s at 13 per cent.

Moco, in his report to the board of health, said smoking is estimated to be responsible for the death

of 220 Chatham-Kent residents a year. Of those deaths, 92 are cancer-related, 63 are respiratory, 62 are cardiovascular and two are diabetic-related.

“For the first time that I can really remember, Ontario Public Health has put a number on the burden smoking has put on our society,” he said.

What’s more, tobacco smoking, Moco said, is responsible for 766 hospitalizations a year, and 1,723 emergency department visits annually in Chatham-Kent.

“These smoking-attributable outcomes make up 19.4 per cent of all deaths, 9.4 per cent of all

hospitalizations, and 4.4 per cent of all emergency department visits in Chatham-Kent,” he stated in his report to the board of health recently.

As for vaping, Moco said provincial figures from the Ontario Student Drug and Health Survey indicate that in 2021, 15 per cent of students had vaped in the past year. Local figures, with the most recent available from 2019, are much higher.

Moco said statistics from the Lambton-Kent District School Board show that 32 per cent of high school aged students vaped at least once a month.

Send your message May 26, 27

Continued from page 6

On May 26 and 27, voting booths, manned by your friends and neighbours, will be widely available in our area.

Alternatively, you can vote online prior to those dates at PublicHospitalVote.ca

Help the Ontario Health Coalition show the Ford

system.

Chatham

With that figure, and the fact the highest adult age group for smoking locally is the 20-44 category at

23.2 per cent, the primary targets for smoking cessation efforts are teens and young adults.

“This is a burden we all experience. This is preventable,” he said.

Continued on page 10

Contributed image Vaping, shown here, in Chatham-Kent is about double the provincial average among highschool students, according to CK Public Health figures. We are also significantly above the provincial average for smoking.

Prevention efforts target young adults

Continued from page 9

“It is our mission to help make a difference in this area. This is unsustainable. We need to really, really focus on prevention; preventing a new generation of addiction to nicotine.”

Dan Drouillard, a public health

nurse, said the support for people looking to quit smoking has historically been quite fragmented in C-K.

“The only tools we’ve basically had are some online programs, mail-out models, and they are quite limited in their success and what they can provide.”

Drouillard said CK Public Health has partnered with the Centre for Addiction and Mental

Health (CAMH) to use CAMH’s STOP program.

“This allows anyone without a family doctor in Chatham-Kent to get 26 weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy, as well as individualized counselling,” he said. “We’re working on bringing this not only to Chatham, but to some of the outlying communities.”

Due to the addictive nature of nicotine, Public Health officials aren’t expecting a 100-per-cent success rate. Far from it.

“We want people to quit smoking, but our goal is to increase quit attempts on people aged 20-45. That will have the most impact,” Drouillard said. “People sometimes need to have multiple attempts to be successful. So getting people to try to quit is the most successful means.”

Moco said it is difficult to grasp why the municipality has smoking and vaping rates above the provincial average.

“In the past, people made a link between lower educational achievement and socio-economic status having a relationship with tobacco use,” he said, alluding to the fact smoking rates were higher among the less educated and lower income groups in society. “Vaping is more of a cultural phenomenon.”

Vaping does differ from tobacco use, and some turn to it to escape cigarette smoking. But Moco said it’s not as safe as users may think.

“It’s not water vapour. The latest research is about 800 puffs per month on regular nicotine device has people reporting about the same number of respiratory issues as people who smoke 15 cigarettes a day,” he said. “Right now, I’m dealing with people who do 800 puffs a week.

“Young people kind of underestimate the addictive properties of these devices.”

However, the federal govern-

ment has issued information that vaping is safer than smoking tobacco in some ways.

“Vaping products produce only a small fraction of the 7,000-plus chemicals found in tobacco smoke, as well as lower levels of the potentially harmful ones. Unlike cigarettes, vaping products do not produce tar or carbon monoxide, among many other chemicals,” the Government of Canada website stated.

Furthermore, nicotine by itself does not appear to be a carcinogen.

“While there are risks associated with nicotine, such as addiction and/or physical dependence, nicotine itself is not known to cause cancer. In contrast, cigarette smoke contains many disease-causing chemicals, including many that cause cancer, as well as heart and lung diseases,” the federal website stated.

It did acknowledge the addictive nature of nicotine, however.

C-K senior awards announced

Sixteen seniors are in the running for the title of 2023 Chatham-Kent Senior of the Year. The following volunteers have been nominated:

• Susan Bienstman, Chatham

• Alice Dale, Merlin

• Rene Grogan, Chatham

• Alana Haines, Morpeth

• Art Labonte, Tilbury

• Bruce McWhirter, Chatham

• Sheila Nead, Merlin

• Jeffery Parker, Chatham

• Sandy Ryall, Blenheim

• Judy Shea, Chatham

• Marlene Shivas, Tilbury

• Don Smith, Chatham

• Rob Vandersluis, Blenheim

• Dorothy Wallace, Chatham

• Joe & Hilda Wiersma, Chatham

• Mary Williston, Chatham

The 2023 Senior of the Year will be announced during the broadcast of the 2023 C-K Celebration of Older Adults on June 1.

The Chatham Voice

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

A weekend of classic cars and succulent ribs is rapidly approaching downtown Chatham, and organizers expect it to be a very busy weekend.

Rims and Ribs takes place May 26-28 in the heart of Chatham. It’s a temporary merger of two very popular events, RetroFest and Ribfest. Due to the fact sewer work will close Tecumseh Park for most of the summer, Ribfest, traditionally held the first weekend following Canada Day, had to find a new date.

Organizer Chris Glass-

ford approached Connie Beneteau and the Historic Downtown Chatham BIA with the proposal to share RetroFest weekend, and the two events birthed Rims and Ribs.

Beneteau expects huge numbers of people in downtown Chatham for the weekend.

“Chatham residents, especially since COVID, everybody loves getting out to events,” she said. “Just by having it, I think this will bring tons of people out.”

Then again, the merger of the two popular weekend events promises to magnify matters further.

“We’ve combined two of

the biggest events in Chatham into one weekend,” Beneteau said. “It’s going to be huge.”

On the rims side, classic cars will take over the downtown streets for Saturday, with a sneak peak Friday night in the parking lot behind the Downtown Chatham Centre. Beneteau said there is definitely an allure to classic vehicles.

“It’s not just cars. It’s classic cars. There’s the beauty of the older cars and how they were built,” she said, adding the owners are always proud to talk about their rides.

“Everyone of those people showcasing a car will

tell you the whole story. That’s what draws people into RetroFest. It’s the nostalgia.”

Registration for Rims and Ribs is similar to past RetroFests, Beneteau said, as she had about 225 pre-registered as of late last week. She expects the usual 600 cars to be on display.

“Everyone typically waits until the last minute,” she said, as some will wait on the weather forecast to determine whether they’ll commit or not.

Beneteau said she’s got people and car clubs coming from out of town and out of the country to

attend. That includes a North Carolina resident who is bringing his hot rod to show it off in Chatham. It’s his second trip to RetroFest. Also on hand will be the Brantford Piston Pushers, a car club from Brantford, Ont.

The Kent Historic Auto Club will be involved in the weekend as usual.

Members will be running the registration table on the Saturday morning and manning the barricades for the first half of the day.

Beneteau asks everyone coming downtown to bring non-perishable food items and drop them

off in Tecumseh Park.

“We’re doing a fill-theU-Haul event for all three days. We’re encouraging people to bring non-perishables all three days to fill that up,” she said.

Rims and Ribs also features a 50/50 draw, with proceeds going to support FreeHelpCK. Beneteau said if the tickets sell out, the winner will get a cool $25,000.

Friday will see an Old Gen-New Gen parking lot party behind the DCC where owners of newer vehicles can rub elbows with the classic car owners and showcase their rides.

Continued on page 18

Mayor Darrin Canniff on behalf of

May 26 - 28, 2023

Downtown Chatham

Saturday May 27, 2023

All streets and side streets will be closed to set up for the car show. Vehicles must be 25 years and older to be staged.

7am-11am

KHAC Classic Car Registration tables will be at the corner of 5th and King St. W on the Downtown Chatham Centre sidewalk.

Party Time DJ and Lighting Services spinning the tunes on the street and making all announcements beside the KHAC Registration.

9am – 5pm

KHAC Classic Car Show, showcasing hundreds of vehicles.

10:00am

JMHI Junior Judges.

Junior car enthusiasts to judge and select as a group their favourite, 1st, 2nd and 3rd place choices. In front of the Scotiabank.

Hair

3:00pm

Awards at the corner of 5th and King Street.

Amusement Rides Ribs

12:30pm-2:30pm Ms. RetroFest Pageant on the Bandshell stage See who gets crowned at Ms. RetroFest 2023.

Hosted by Melanie Renaud (previously Miss Galaxy) and Director at Miss Confidence Canada.

2:30pm-3:30pm

Celebrity Rib Judging

3:30pm-5pm

BRIO Sock Hop, come out dressed in 50’s and 60’s and join in the fun.

5:30pm-6:30pm

Spirit of the Sixties band

7pm-8pm

Courtney Wells Band

8:30pm-11pm 89 Next band.

Saturday May 27, 2023

Ribs to dominate park; rims the streets

Continued from page 11

A DJ will be on hand, there will be games and other fun as well, Beneteau said.

“Park your car, pull out your lawn chair and take part,” she said.

The event begins at 3 p.m.

The Saturday will see the streets get closed off at 5:30 a.m., as the classic cars roll into the downtown core. Registration begins at 7 a.m. at the corner of King and Fifth streets.

There will be a free children’s play area in the King’s Commons in front of the DCC.

Junior Judges – children aged six to 12 – will once again be voting on their favourite vehicles.

And the event awards take place at 3 p.m. Following that, Beneteau said the vehicles begin dispersing.

The Sunday will feature a soapbox derby at 9 a.m.

on William Street beside Tecumseh Park.

As for the food side of the weekend, Tecumseh Park will play host to half a dozen ribbers, starting the Friday afternoon. There will also be vendors in the park, as well as live music that evening, plus a beverage garden.

The park is back in action Saturday at 11 a.m., with the Miss RetroFest

pageant taking place at 12:30 p.m.

Celebrity rib judging follows at 2:30 p.m., as does the Brio Sock Hop, where Beneteau said dozens of people in poodle skirts will entertain.

Live music continues later in the day as well.

Ribs, vendors and the beverage tent are all in action as well.

That continues into Sunday, with more food and

music, with the park closing at 6 p.m.

Following that, there will be a ticketed event at Sons of Kent, the Pit Party, at 6:30 p.m. The gathering will feature live music and a chance to meet and chat with Avery Shoaf and Cassidy Mceown of Rust Valley Restorers. For tickets to the Pit Party and the 50/50 draw, visit the BIA office on King Street West.

Chatham Voice file photo

Former Chatham resident Jorge Gonzalez, owner of Gonzalez’s BBQ in London, splashes on some sauce with a little bit of help from daughter Daryerlin at Ribfest last summer.

Chatham Voice file photo RetroFest supporters gaze at the diverse display of automobiles at RetroFest last year.

Cool drinks, hot food and an awesome view

I had the chance recently to sample a Mango Tango Lager from Bayside Brewing Co. in Erieau. It’s a refreshing beverage for the summer for sure.

Our adult daughter, Brenna, whom some of her friends jokingly call a craft beer snob, enjoyed it as well.

That was one week while out and about. The next involved a stop at Rondeau Joe’s just outside the provincial park.

We hit the eatery at noon on a Thursday. Perfect weather saw us sit on the patio for lunch and watch the turtles.

I love the weekday tranquility of Rondeau Joe’s patio at this time of the year. There are no bugs, the turtles provide entertainment, the food – as always – is great, and it is just plain relaxing.

My only issue is the lingering problems with my hip. My lower left leg swelled up a fair bit while sitting there. I’ll have to watch that in the future.

Speaking of the hip, I did something on a recent Sunday I had not done in almost a year: moved around the house without a cane. It came a day after family descended on our backyard for a two-day rejuvenation event. Mary Beth’s cousin Jessie and her

husband Dale are awesome folks and they led the charge, bringing teenaged assistants along. I was left mostly spectating, but fired up the Big Green Egg to feed everyone. As they raked up leftover leaves, cut down and removed scrub brush along our fence line, I hit Schinkels’ Gourmet Meats for simple hamburgers and hot dogs. Except when you buy hot dogs at Schinkels’, it’s never simple. Their ballpark franks are awesome! I like their burgers as well, obviously, and expected those to be inhaled by our hungry work team.

However, despite me seasoning the burgers and adding slices of cheddar cheese, the dogs were just as popular, if not more so. We ate outside without the benefit of a patio table. How do you know when it’s time to replace your patio table? When you go to move it and the top leaves the base behind. That’s what happened with us.

Bruce Corcoran

The MUNICIPALITY OF CHATHAM-KENT

FORM 6 SALE OF LAND BY PUBLIC TENDER

Municipal Act, 2001, c 25, s. 379 (2) O. Reg 181/03, s. 5(1), Form 6

Take Notice that tenders are invited for the purchase of the land(s) described below and will be received until 3:00 p.m. local time on June 22, 2023, at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.

The tenders will then be opened in public on the same day as soon as possible after 3:00 p.m. at the Council Chambers of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 5K8.

Description of Land(s)

All lands are in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, the following are the geographic descriptions and municipal addresses.

1. Roll # 3650-010-001-01302 PT LT 1, BROKEN FRONT CON, GEOGRAPHIC TWP OF ROMNEY, PT OF THE ROAD ALLOWANCE BETWEEN ESSEX COUNTY & KENT COUNTY AS CLOSED BY BY-LAW R011904, DESIGNATED AS PTS 2,3 & 4, 24R6266; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Erie St S., Wheatley P.I.N. 00846 0448 (LT) Assessment: IX 1,500

2. Roll # 3650-010-001-66250 PT LT 10 OR 212, CON 1 OR TALBOT RD AS IN 143215 (3RDLY); DESCRIPTION MAY NOT BE ACCEPTABLE IN FUTURE AS IN 143215; ROMNEY. Being Cemetery Rd., Wheatley. P.I.N. 00847 0086 (LT) Assessment: RTP 39,500

PT LT 171-172 PL OLD SURVEY AS IN 189221; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 405 Park St., Chatham ON N7M 3S7 P.I.N. 00503 0205 (LT)

22. Roll # 3650-420-043-05850 BLK A PL 578; CHATHAM-KENT. Being Victoria Ave, Chatham ON P.I.N. 00545 0182 (LT) Assessment: RTP 2,100

23. Roll # 3650-442-008-06300 LT 21 PL 352; CHATHAM-KENT. Being 75 Dell St., Wallaceburg P.I.N. 00584 0094 (LT) Assessment: RTP 17,400

Tenders must be submitted in the prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit in the form of a money order, bank draft, or cheque certified by a bank or trust corporation payable to the municipality (or board) and representing at least 20 per cent of the tender amount.

Except as follows, the municipality makes no representation regarding the title to or any other matters relating to the land to be sold. Responsibility for ascertaining these matters rests with the potential purchasers. This sale is governed by the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Tax Sales Rules made under that Act. The successful purchaser will be required to pay the amount tendered plus accumulated property taxes and any taxes that may be applicable such as the land transfer tax.

The lands do not include mobile homes situate on the lands.

The municipality has no obligation to provide vacant possession to the successful purchaser.

A copy of the prescribed form of tender is on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent website, www.chatham-kent.ca and on the website of the Government of Ontario Central Forms Repository under the listing for the Ministry of Municipal Affairs.

Tune into our Municipal Facebook page for a virtual event where the tenders will be opened live beginning at 3:20 p.m. Further details are available by visiting www.chatham-kent.ca.

For further information regarding this sale and a copy of the prescribed form of tender contact:

Title

Amy McLellan, Manager Revenue or Matthew Torrance, Deputy Tresasurer

Address of Municipality or Board

315 King Street West, P O Box 640, Chatham, Ontario N7M 5K8

Name of Municipality or Board

Municipality of Chatham-Kent

www.chatham-kent.ca

Personal information contained on this form, collected pursuant to the Municipal Act will be used for the purposes of that Act. Questions should be directed to the Freedom of Information and Privacy Co-ordinator at the institution responsible for the procedures under that Act.

Fill the buses with food May 27

Fill a bus or a U-Haul, it doesn’t matter to the people at CK Helping Hands.

The organization, which has for several years held May and August events seeking donations to help those in need, is back in action with its Fill the Bus initiative May 27.

In locations across Chatham-Kent, the group, which is comprised of five community-based organizations, will have school buses parked and waiting for donations of non-perishable food items.

Tim Haskell, one of the event organizers, said this year also sees the Rims and Ribs event in downtown Chatham holding a Fill the U-Haul endeavour, where from May 2628, people can drop off non-perishables as well.

“It’s not a matter of who is doing it as long as it’s getting done,” he said, adding that CK Helping Hands will be offering assistance to the Fill the U-Haul event. “Mostly, we want to fill up the food banks and get them ready for the summer and get some food in the pantries for them.”

Each community in which the items are collected will see those items wind up on the shelves of their particular food banks, Haskell said. In Chatham, the collected items will go to Outreach for Hunger. Buses will be parked outside Real Canadian Superstore, Food Basics/ Dollar Tree, No Frills, Giant Tiger and Sobey’s in Chatham between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. and volunteers will be on hand to accept

Expensive extension on Keil Dr.

The Chatham Voice Chatham-Kent council has decided to take money from bridge lifecycle reserves to help pay for the extension of Keil Drive South in Chatham. The move was prompted by escalating costs that have doubled to from the original estimate in 2019. Cost of the project is now set at $3.7 million, up almost twice what was esti-

mated in 2019 with council agreeing to borrow close to $1.9 million to help finance the revamp.

The spike is being blamed on supply chain issues, inflation and fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Council also approved a payback plan, with the money to be returned to the bridge fund in 2024, with no effect on capital bridge projects.

Community Driver

The expansion has been designated as a high-priority item in Chatham-Kent’s master transportation plan.

Blenheim-based Clarke Construction has been selected to do the work out of five companies that bid on the project.

any donations.

Fill the Bus began aiding people in Chatham, Tilbury, Wallaceburg and Dresden, but has expanded to Ridgetown this year.

Haskell said volunteers have a similar program in the Blenheim area, so Helping Hands did not

want to intrude.

Fill the Bus returns Aug. 12, with a focus on school supplies and snacks.

Haskell said FreeHelpCK is also doing a backpack program that Helping Hands will aid by collecting the supplies for the backpacks.

Activities: Card Games, Shuffleboard, Aquafit, Bowling, Computers, Crafts, Choir, Wednesday Lunches, Holey Board, Darts, Exercise/Dance, Trips, Birthday & More!

The Chatham Voice

Chatham Voice file photo Brothers Benny, 4, left, and J.J., 6, deliver school supplies to the Fill the Bus event on Aug. 20, 2022. The event returns May 27 in Chatham, Tilbury, Wallaceburg, Dresden and Ridgetown.

Parade of Homes returns June 3

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Everyone loves a parade, including the Chatham-Kent Home Builders Association (CKHBA).

After a three-year-hiatus, the Parade of Homes is back in Chatham-Kent. Put on by the CKHBA, the event takes place June 3.

One of the event organizers, Nick Bultje of Multi Construction, said there are five builders showcasing seven homes on the tour. Multi, along with Ewald Homes, Maple City Homes, Family First Homes and newcomer Bungalow Homes will showcase houses.

Bungalow Homes is showing off three of its recent builds. Bultje said one area that will be particularly busy Saturday is a certain Chatham neighbourhood.

“There are going to be three

houses in The Landings,” he said of homes on the tour. “It’s going to be a busy Saturday morning there.”

Bultje said builders love the parade.

“It’s a good time to showcase your work and get people out and about,” he said. “It’s certainly an efficient way to do an open house event for us.”

Bultje hopes the parade will help inspire additional interest in the local housing market as well.

As competitive as the housing market and home building can be, Bultje said everyone comes together for the Parade of Homes.

“Everybody’s willing to help each other,” he said, adding it’s a form of supportive competition. For the details on which homes are on the parade, please see this week’s Chatham Voice newspaper for the CKHBA Parade of Homes flyer.

New craft brewery opens

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

The suds are flowing in Wallaceburg at Chatham-Kent’s newest craft brewery.

Located on the Sydenham River in the downtown core, Glasstown Brewing Co. melds a revitalized heritage building with the latest in modern brewing

equipment and tasteful decor.

A grand opening took place May 20, marked by a parade to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 18, a short hike down James Street to where the north and east branch of the Sydenham River converges.

As part of the opening celebrations, Glasstown staff walked the first keg down to the legion and poured the first draft

beers at 1 p.m. simultaneously, at both the brewery and the legion.

According to operations manager Christina McFadden, Glasstown will kick off with seven types of beer on tap, but plans are in the works to eventually have 18.

“We’ll be expanding as we go in the first couple of months,” McFadden said.

all ages and abilities

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Glasstown Brewing Co. taproom and cafe manager Zak Parsons, operations manager Christina McFadden, head brewer David Draper and Wallaceburg Coun. Aaron Hall raise a glass of double IPA prior to the grand opening.

Community Events

Thursday, May 25, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am-1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone welcome.

• Jam Session at the Merlin Legion Br. 465. 1-4:30pm. Bring your instruments, singing voice or dancing shoes and clap the afternoon away. $2 donation. 519-689-4884 for info. Panzerotti Night $14.25 tax included.

Friday, May 26, 2023:

• Adult Colouring at the CKPL Chatham Branch Community Living Café. 2:00-4:00pm. Come and connect with people of all ages and skill levels while colouring away the stress of the day. No registration required, come and go as you please.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will served 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials: liver & onions or fish & chips. Take out is also available by calling 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.

• Homemade Legion Burgers or Hot Hamburg at the Merlin Legion Br. 465. Meal includes baked or fries, coleslaw & dessert. Please call and reserve meal if possible. Walk-ins are welcome. 519-689-4884 for info.

• Art Thomas Spirit Filled Life Conference. Speaker: Art Thomas - Missionary-Evangelist-Teacher. Friday, May 26 @ 7pm. Location: Running Creek Ministry. 29292 Running Creek Rd. Wallaceburg, ON. Call:519-3285672.

• Learn how to use a Tablet: 1:303:00. Android & Apple devices being taught. Held at the Active Lifestyle Centre, 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham. Cost is $3.00 for Members or $5.00 for Non-Members. Call to get name on sign up list at 519-352-5633.

• Volunteers across Ontario are holding a citizen-led referendum to stop the privatization of our public hospitals to for-profit hospitals. Come out and vote between 9am-5pm. Chatham: Sarah’s Farm Market, Lenover’s Quality Meats, Hidden Hills Golf Course, Giant Tiger, Mercato’s, Peavey Mart, Rib Fest/ Retro Fest. Wallaceburg: No Frills, Home Town Deli. Dresden Plate Quilt Shop, Mitchells Bay Variety & Bait. Tupperville: Tacq’s Garden Market. Thamesville Legion. Tilbury: Coves Landing & Lighthouse, Tilbury Legion. Leamington: Aziz Fruits, LDAS Leamington Fair.

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. Breaded Pork Chop dinner with potatoes, vegetable, salad and bun. Dine-ins $12 and pickup $13.

Meals are served at 6pm. Please all 519-352-8291 to place your order. Everyone Welcome.

Saturday, May 27, 2023:

• Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St. & Wellington). Delicious & nutritious breakfast served free of charge 9:30am-10:30am. Take out only.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 & 5:30pm. Lunch served 3:00pm-5:15pm. Entertainment by the D.A.M. Band 4:30-9:30. Everyone Welcome.

• Community Creative Expression Antibullying Murals with Shannon Rose Artist & Photography at Sati Hall. 1-3pm.

• Yard Sale 8am-1pm at the Masonic Temple, 403 Riverview Dr. Chatham. Proceeds shared by Chatham Masonic Temple Assoc. & Stephen Lewis Foundation. Gently used household items & clothing. Breakfast 8-10am $5. Baked goods, hotdogs, pop, water & coffee on sale.

• Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s United Church, 85 William Street S., Chatham presents “United in Song” at 7 pm. Donations (suggested $15) at the doors which open at 6:30 pm. All are welcome! For further information call 519-352-0010 or www. standrewschatham.org/music.

• Art Thomas Spirit Filled Life Conference. Speaker: Art Thomas - Missionary-Evangelist-Teacher. Saturday, May 27 @ 9:00 am. Also 1:00 pm. Healing Service 7:00 pm. Location: Running Creek Ministry. 29292 Running Creek Rd. Wallaceburg, ON. Call:519-328-5672.

• Giant Indoor Yard & Bake Sale from 7am-1pm at First Reformed Church. 632 Lacroix St. Chatham. Lunch available. Something for everyone.

• The Ridgetown & District Horticultural Society Spring Plant Sale. 8:00am-1:00pm. Follow the signs to 37 Oak Street & 11 Myrtle Street, Ridgetown. Memberships and Seed Harvesting Bags also available. Proceeds support the Horticultural Society programs. Hope to see you there.

• Volunteers across Ontario are holding a citizen-led referendum to stop the privatization of our public hospitals to for-profit hospitals. Come out and vote between 9am5pm. Chatham: Sarah’s Farm Market, Lenover’s Quality Meats, Hidden Giant Tiger, Mercato’s, Peavey Mart, Rib Fest/Retro Fest. Wallaceburg: No Frills, Home Town Deli. Dresden Plate Quilt Shop, Mitchells Bay Variety & Bait. Tupperville: Tacq’s Garden Market. Thamesville Legion. Bothwell Legion. Tilbury: Coves

Landing & Lighthouse, Tilbury Legion. Leamington: Aziz Fruits, LDAS Leamington Fair.

• Euchre Tournaments at the Merlin Legion Br. 485. 2 person team $20. Registration 12:15pm. Start time 1:00pm. (kitchen opens 11:30am - burgers, fries, hot dogs, sandwiches). 2pc chicken $10.50. 3pc chicken $13.50. Pool table, dart boards, cards, cribbage are ready to be used. 519-689-4884 for info.

Sunday, May 28, 2023:

• Creekside Church - 10:00 a.m Sunday’s at the Active Lifestyle Centre, Merritt Ave. Haven’t been to church in a while? Come find community with us. creeksidechurch.ca.

• Art Thomas Spirit Filled Life Conference. Speaker: Art ThomasMissionary-Evangelist-Teacher. Join us for teaching: Identity in Christ, Power Evangelism, Hearing God’s Voice and Healing. Sunday, May 28 10:30 am. Location: Running Creek Ministry. 29292 Running Creek Rd. Wallaceburg, ON. Call:519-328-5672.

Monday, May 29, 2023:

• Bingo at the ALC 1:00-3:00pm. Call for more details 519-352-5633.

Tuesday, May 30, 2023:

• Chess Club at Chatham Branch of CKPL. 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. Drop in program. Great opportunity to learn new strategies by playing with different players. All ages and all skill levels are welcome.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Lunch served 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00pm. Shuffleboard at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, May 31, 2023:

• Powerful Tools for Caregivers, Wednesdays, May 31—July 5, 2023, 7:00pm—8:30pm. Access virtual programs using any computer, tablet, or smartphone. All workshop materials are provided free of charge. Free registration by using link: https:// ptc_may31.eventbrite.ca.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open from 11:00am–9:30pm. Lunch served 11:30am–1:30pm. Daily special is meatloaf dinner. Check out our other daily specials. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Callleave message - 519-350-3462

Alcoholics Anonymous, we can help! Information Line 519-360-5246.

Submit your coming events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com

Fun Stuff

3. National capital

4. Consumed

5. The habitat of wild animals

6. Sun up in New York

7. Cygnus star

8. Male parents

9. Talk to you (abbr.)

10. A place to clean oneself

11. Southwestern US state

12. South Korean idol singer

14. Pirate

CLUES ACROSS

1. Wear away by friction

7. Insecticide

10. Elicited a secret vote

12. Beef

13. Disagreement

14. __ Crawford, supermodel

15. Jeweled headdress

16. Digits

17. Trillion hertz

18. Snap up

19. Classical portico

21. Residue after burning

22. Large integers

27. Free agent

28. Where ballplayers work

33. Blood type

34. Scottish city

36. Google certification (abbr.)

37. Serbian monetary unit

38. Make a sudden surprise attack on

39. Wood or metal bolt

40. Relaxing attire

41. Famed neurologist

44. Dullish brown fabrics

45. Member of ancient Jewish sect

48. Griffith, Rooney

49. Lawmakers

50. Government lawyers

51. The arch of the foot

CLUES DOWN

1. Nonflowering aquatic plant

2. Britpop rockers

17. Pituitary hormone (abbr.)

18. Mistake

20. Promotions

23. Prepares

24. Partner to flowed

25. State lawyer

26. Patti Hearst’s captors

29. Pound

30. Electronic data processing

31. Sports player

32. Treats with contempt

35. Apprehend

36. Excessively talkative

38. Highways

40. Ribosomal ribonucleic acid

41. College organization for males

42. Any customary observance or practice

43. Employee stock ownership plan

44. Male parent

45. The 23rd letter of the Greek alphabet

46. Female bird

47. Autonomic nervous system

Puzzle Answers can be found on page 26

The Arts

Annie JR set to come to life

The Chatham Voice

Members of the Brio Academy are set to take the stage to bring theatre fans a production of the timeless story of Annie JR.

Featuring a talented cast of youth under 14 years of age, three performances will take place June 2 and June 3 at the St. Paul’s Discover Life Centre at 450 Park Ave. W. in Chatham.

to the exceptional talent and dedication of our young artists and their families,” Schwarz said in a recent media release. “Our musical theatre intensive program has provided them with the training, mentorship and support needed to grow into their skills and abilities in preparation for this production,” Schwarz said.

Shows till take place June 2 at 6 p.m. and June 3 at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at showtix4u,com/ eventdetails/73991. Contributed image

Event celebrates next-gen singers

The next Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s concert, United in Song, will showcase the next generation of singers.

United in Song on May 27 is hosted by the Bel Canto Choir School, and will feature a variety of singers performing in children’s choirs from across the region.

The concert is the culmination of the first ever Chatham-Kent Children’s Choir Festival that takes place the week leading up to the concert. The Festival aims to bring young singers together to share their love of singing with one another. It will provide choral clinics for each participating choir leading up to the concert.

Elspeth Maynard who is

well known in the Windsor area as a teacher, chorister, soloist and conductor, will serve as the choir festival clinician. She will work with the participating choirs leading up to the concert.

Each choir will perform individually at the United in Song concert and will then perform as a mass choir conducted by Maynard.

Participating choirs include the Bel Canto Choir, the CKSS School Choir, St. Clair Chorale from Wallaceburg and the UMEI Christian High School Choir from Leamington. Donations (suggested $15 per person) will be accepted at the door and will go towards the music program at St. Andrew’s.

According to Brio Academy artistic director Rachel Schwarz, the musical promises to be fun for all.

“Annie JR is a testament

RONDEAU JOE’S PUB

Come for the Food . . . Stay for the View

Brio Academy students rehearse prior to their coming performance of Annie JR.

The Chatham Voice

Speak your mind on health care

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Worried about the Ontario government privatizing public hospitals?

Now’s your chance to speak out about it.

The Ontario Health Coalition is hosting a province-wide feedback vote on the issue May 26-27. Votes can be cast at various locations in most communities, with the question on the ballot reading, “Do you want our public hospitals to be privatized to for-profit hospitals and clinics?”

Chatham-Kent Health Coalition co-chair Shirley Roebuck said the referendum is an opportunity for ordinary citizens to make their concerns known.

According to Roebuck, the concept of using public spaces for private health care doesn’t jive with what she’s hearing from the public.

“We want to show our elected officials what the public wants,” the longtime health care advocate said. “Everywhere I go I talk to people who are against what Mr. Ford is proposing.”

Local man wins $225,000

Roebuck said the Ford government is paving the way for the privatization of some public hospitals spaces, adding the healthcare crunch could be alleviated by funding current public hospital spaces, such as vacant operating rooms, that have been closed for some time.

For May 26 and 27, ballots can be cast in Chatham from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ribs and Rims event at Tecumseh Park; Sarah’s Farm Market; Lenover’s Quality Meats and Seafoods; Giant Tiger; Mercato Fresh and Food Basics.

519-354-9157

For Sale 2 pair of Harley Davidson boots. 1 used - $40, 1 brand new - $60. Size 8 mens. Phone 519-351-8226.

This Weeks Puzzle answers. Puzzles on page 20

Wanted BUYING: coin collections and silver coins. Any questions call Paul 289-2282817.

For Sale

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40.

519-354-3411

Yard Sale Yard Sale For Rent

NEIGHBOURHOOD YARD

SALE - Lynnwood Subdivision May 27, 2023 8am12noon. Selling a mixture of items, clothing, tools, furniture, dishes, etc.

Ministry

Healing Love Ministry is an all night prayer line with counsellors available from 12:00am7:00am. Also, a male support group for those struggling with sexual addiction. A home based ministry, private and confidential. 519-354-3532.

Bungalow for Rent. 720 sq ft & small backyard. 2 small bedrooms, 3pc bath, laundry, kitchen stove, fridge, kitchen island with 4 bar stools, driveway for cars. Contact 647.639.4528.

Wanted

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools.

We Buy AllPaid Cash. 519727-8894. Wanted: scrap air conditioners and electric motors. Will pick up anything. Phone 226-2292614.

Wanted PAYING TOP DOLLAR Gold, Silver, All COINS, Canada, USA, World. Free Estimates, Private appointments available, Thursday, June 1, Active Lifestyle Centre, 20 Merritt Ave., Chatham. 9am-4pm.

Friday, June 9, Blenheim Arena, 199 King St., Blenheim. 9am-1pm. All wind up pocket and wrist watches. Old paper money, stamp collections. House calls also available. Dan Jones B.A.B.Ed. 55 years experience. 519-8181805.

5834 Queens Line, Chatham. May 25, 26 & 27th. 9:00am???. Something for everyone!

Wanted

Wanted to rent or buy 3 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-352-5414 or 226-6275414.

Contributed image

Chatham’s Raymond Nute shows off his winnings from a recent Big Spin instant game. Nute, a 43-year-old father, said he’s been a regular lottery player since he was 18 years old. With his winnings, he plans to buy a car, save for his kids, and plan some fun family activities.

Classifieds

Anniversary

May

Eileen Thompson

99, Tuesday, May 9, 2023

Kendrick Funeral Home

Jacob Wieler

70, Monday, May 15, 2023

Kendrick Funeral Home

Josephine Cecelia Abrams

74, Saturday, May 34, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Jacqueline Vancoillie

89, Monday, May 15, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Jo-Anne McFadden

77, Friday, May 19, 2023

Nicholls Funeral Home

Bob Tinline

74, Thursday, May 11, 2023

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Don Cowley

92, Thursday, May 11, 2023

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Brian Holdaway

67, Tuesday, May 16, 2023

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Robert “Bob” McGregor

84, Thursday, May 11, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

John Whittington

97, Thursday, May 11, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Stephen John Olexa

65, Friday, May 12, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Suzy Andersen 73, Saturday, May 13, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Bill Reaume

67, Saturday, May 13, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Michael Sedlacek

65, Sunday, May 14, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Lee Wilkie

95, Monday, May 15, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Patricia Hinz

83, Monday, May 15, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Obituary Obituary

Robert “Bob” Edmund McGregor, 84, of Chatham, surrounded by loving family in his last days, passed on to the nineteenth putting green in the sky on Thursday May 11th at CKHA. He lived his life with a signature charm and quick wit. He can now share his one-liner jokes and famous golf swing to anyone who will listen in Heaven.

Bob was born on Oct 3rd , 1938 in Petrolia, Ontario to Frederick Orville McGregor and Dorothy Kettle. He grew up in Petrolia where his mother always proclaimed he was the most handsome boy in town. Bob had a love of cars from the young age of 12. He then bought, restored, and sold a multitude of vehicles over the span of his long self-made career and developed a wealth of classic car knowledge and a particular fondness for his 55 Chev and 72 Monte Carlo. He enjoyed car talk with his buddies at hundreds of car shows over the years. He also enjoyed “going out among ‘em’ ‘ on snowmobile trips full of fun and adventure. Family trips often involved other friends, golf, and cars. Bob would love to lighten the room with many of his iconic one-liner jokes, and surprising dry wit answers to our predictable boring greetings such as “how are you today Bob?” (His answer is not printable). Bob’s other passion was golf, amassing numerous tournament wins and trophies, but more importantly friendships, along the way. He would forever hold a love for his dog “Rudy Tudy ‘’ for “Grady sakes”. There was nobody who could beat him at a game of “name that country music song”, especially if it was Ray Price. He loved his music, butter tarts, and sweets. Bob met his wife Karen over 30 years ago and their love for each other is one for the story books. They travelled the world together as tour guides for KL travel.

Bob is survived by his beloved and dedicated wife of 30 years Karen McGregor (Trottier) sister Nancy (Fred) Fedosoff, nieces Lisa and Pam. Former wife Gael Cranston who is mother of his treasured children Susan (Michael) Sheridan, and Bobby(Jody) McGregor. Respected stepsons Michael(Paul), David, and Terry(Robin) McKeon. Adored grandchildren Brittany(Aaron) Gould, Julianne (David) Hubbard, Claire McGregor, Rowan McKeon, Caledonia McKeon. Five much loved great grandchildren Ivy, Finn, and Greta Gould, and Rosie and Harry Hubbard. Brother in-law Paul (Annette) Trottier, step nephews Steven and Brian Trottier. A funeral service will be held on Saturday May 27th at St. Ursula Church 205 Tweedsmuir Ave W, Chatham, ON at 11:00 am. Later that day from 1:00-3:00pm, a visitation will be held at McKinley’s Funeral home, 459 St Clair St, Chatham. A Celebration of life will be held Sunday May 28th, from 12:30 to 3:00 pm at Links of Kent Golf Club 120 Indian Creek Rd. W. Chatham.

The Family would like to express our appreciation for the care they received at CKHA, especially the staff on the third floor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer Society of Chatham Kent. Goodbye Bob, you can finally go on the road with your country music tour you’ve been threatening for years. Your big heart, bright smile, and everlasting unique sense of humour will be with us forever.

Aline Normandin

Aline was born in Chatham, Ontario to the late Simone Berthiaume and Adolphe Normandin on November 9, 1934. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. She was as dedicated to her career as a pediatric nurse as she was to her family. She was someone who was always there, someone you could always turn to. One of her biggest pleasures in life after retirement was becoming a grandmother. She loved her dogs, watching and debating the news, playing computer games, and getting together with family. She will be deeply missed by her daughter Myka (Caroline), grand-daughter Samantha, sister Pauline (Roger), niece Tealey and grand niece and nephews: Beck, Kyle and Matthew. As well as by her her grouchy yet lovable teacup poodle support animal Suzie. The funeral service will be held at St Agnes church in Chatham, Ontario May 26, 2023 at 11am, 1 year after her passing. The burial service will follow at Maple Leaf Cemetery.

Steven Brock

It is with a broken heart that I announce the passing of my loving partner Steve Brock (EZ) on Friday May 12, 2023. He fought a long hard battle right up to the end, he was a fighter. He is leaving behind his loving partner Darlene Eagen (Duchess), his 2 stepsons Justin Tong and Matthew (Meagan) Tong, and the little joys of his life, his grand children. Predeceased by his parents and will be greatly missed by his sisters Terry, Beverly and Susan, his brother Dennis, his extended family, nieces and nephews and all of his dear friends. There will be a hole in our hearts to never hear his laughter and jokes again. As per his wishes, there will be no funeral service. Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. Please save a life and be an organ donor. Arrangements entrusted to Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home,

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