The Chatham Voice, June 6, 2024

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Ward boundaries to be revisited

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent council is taking another shot at reviewing the municipality’s ward boundaries.

What is Cremation?

Cremation is the process of reducing the human body to bone fragments using high heat and flame. Cremation is not the final disposition of the remains, nor is it a type of funeral service.

Is a casket needed for Cremation?

No, a casket is not required, many municipalities require an alternative container constructed of wood or cardboard, however, in some cases no container is required.

Cremated remains can be scattered or buried, or they may be kept with the family in a decorative urn.

Cremation is also a less expensive option in comparison to a burial. Let’s talk soon . . .

Following a motion from Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew, council approved the hiring Strategy Corp to conduct the assessment at a cost of $68,000.

The review of the composition of council in relation to population may include recommendations that could trigger changes in wards, as well as the number of people elected to represent C-K.

Brought up as a notice of motion by Crew, the proposal needed a two-thirds vote to proceed. It passed 17-1 with South Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson as the lone dissenter.

Another two-thirds vote was needed to bring it forward for discussion to waive the waiting period and that passed 144.

The updated motion

didn’t spark much discussion.

“I think we’ve talked about this,” said Crew, saying she was “bringing it back to reconsider” because some minor wording changes were needed, noting she worked with North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville on the revised motion.

Wallaceburg Coun. Carmen McGregor, who seconded it, put forward a friendly amendment that in the future administration prepares a report in the first term of subsequent councils relating to how population changes could affect ward boundaries.

Wallaceburg Coun. Aaron Hall said he supported the motion, noting boundary reviews are a general practice of both the federal and provincial government.

“I think this is a good practice for us to follow,” Hall said, adding he’s commonly asked about ward boundaries, especially around election time.

The request comes on the heels of a motion brought forward by Jubenville in April to undertake a review with the possibility of reducing the number of councillors to 12. The issue sparked

spirited debate but ultimately failed in an 8-8 tie vote.

Jubenville was poised to bring the issue forward a second time Monday, however, she was informed by municipal clerk Judy Smith that procedure forbade her from doing so because she was not on the “prevailing side” of the motion April 29. Originally, Jubenville brought the issue forward because she said Chatham-Kent has changed and that rural and urban citizens need to be better represented. C-K’s six-ward system was established at the time of amalgamation in 1998.

Other councillors agreed, saying Chatham-Kent council is outdated, too big and needs to be downsized.

Currently, there are 17 councillors and one mayor.

The boundary review will be completed prior to the 2026 election.

SheLeads back July 6

Building on its inaugural success, SheLeads Chatham-Kent is heading into its second year. The day-long event, designed to uplift, empower and educate attendees, will be held at the Capitol Theatre July 6.

This year’s event will feature 18 new workshops, as well as dynamic panel discussion featuring women-identifying folks who will speak to the power of serving the community of Chatham-Kent. A fashion show will cap off the event.

According to co-founder Randi Bokor-Caron, 200 people took part in the 2023 forum.

The Chatham Voice

Pilot project next step for urban chickens

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent council has finally scratched out the initial framework for an urban backyard chicken pilot project.

Following a lengthy discussion, council approved a motion by South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle at a recent meeting. Now the matter goes back to administration to prepare a bylaw for council’s approval.

Doyle said approving the pilot was a chance to give the people what they want, given the overwhelming response of a 2023 Let’s Talk C-K survey which saw 5,000 people respond. Around 68 per cent of those were in favour of allowing backyard chickens in urban areas. There are no restrictions on raising chickens in agricultural areas.

The urban backyard chicken issue has been on the municipality’s radar for a number of years, with council turning down such proposals in 2013 and 2020.

Last year, the issue was raised again, with council directing administration to report on the matter. When administration returned, they had outlined three possible approaches including maintaining the status quo, instituting a pilot project or incorporating a permanent urban chicken program.

Results of a public meeting held last summer were also outlined in the report, at which time area poultry farmers and the Kent Federation of Agriculture voiced their collective opposition, saying it could lead to the spread of a catastrophic disease such as the avian flu.

The issue prompted more discussion, as well as many questions to Nancy Havens, C-K’s manager of licensing. When speaking to council, Havens cautioned officials about proceeding with an urban back-

yard chicken program. She said the Town of Tecumseh discontinued its backyard chicken program after two years due to noise, animal welfare and smell.

According to Havens, a pilot project is likely to become permanent as it would be difficult to halt it once it gets going.

However, she said a pilot will allow the municipality to “crawl before we walk, “noting there are significant costs associated with the enforcement and inspection.

A staff report estimated a municipal-wide urban backyard chicken program via Pet and Wildlife Rescue (PAWR) would cost $87,650 for enforcement and close to $400,000 for coop inspections annually. Figures for rural residential and village residential enforcement and inspection are $13,000 and $43,000 respectively.

East Kent Coun. John Wright, an advocate of maintaining the status quo, told council that poultry farmers are worried about disease, as it could lead to quarantine and the preventative eradication of entire flocks.

“There’s quite a risk with the bird flu, if it does ever get into a flock,” he said, adding there are strict rules around the disposal of birds.

Other councillors unsuccessfully lobbied for a C-K wide

pilot, including North Kent’s Rhonda Jubenville and Chatham Coun. Brock McGregor. McGregor said restrictions based on property size are inequitable, putting backyard chickens out of reach for residents who may need it.

“I don’t know if we know on the fly what the best size is,” he said.

Ultimately, the project will allow backyard urban chickens in rural residential and village residential areas on properties over a half an acre in size.

Based on Doyle’s motion, the suggested rules may include:

• Chickens must remain on the owner’s property and if there is no fence, the birds must stay in the coop.

• No roosters.

• A minimum setback from the property line.

Continued on page 4

Image courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

Chatham-Kent council has approved a pilot project to examine the viability of allowing backyard chickens in urban areas acrosss the municipality.

We’re selling a funeral home!

Iconic Dresden home on the market

The Chatham Voice

A well-known property in Dresden is up for sale once again – 620 Cross St.

It’s the site of the Discovery Channel’s reality TV show We Bought a Funeral Home. The show, which aired on discovery+, featured the Blumberg family, who moved to Dresden from Toronto in 2021.

According to the show, they bought the former funeral home for $570,000.

The 12,000 square-foot mansion,

built in 1885, is listed as having 17 rooms, is a three-storey structure and has a partially finished basement.

It now has a swimming pool.

The property is the site of the former Thomas L. DeBurger Funeral Home, which closed in September of 2016.

Owners Tom and Linda DeBurger retired after running the facility for four decades.

The home, after renovations by the Blumbergs, is listed at $1.885 million.

Straight Talk with Nathan McKinlay

In our column, we often share the insights, stories and encounters experienced at the Funeral Home and beyond. We are blessed to be able to help families of all different faiths, backgrounds and walks of life through their grief journey. At a time of loss, people are often either at their best or at their worst, and families tend to either come together or come apart. Working with grief and death day in and day out can be challenging. It is certainly not a job for everyone and not everyone can cut it. We are fortunate to have been able to hone and train a team of compassionate and passionate, authentic and hard-working professionals to serve our families. Our greatest asset is our team. As such I only felt it appropriate to highlight some of the individuals that I am fortunate enough to work with. - Nathan

I have known Sean McGivern since I first started my career as a Funeral Director many moons ago. Originally from Wallaceburg, Sean has been a licensed funeral director for over 36 years and has seen many changes in the profession. What makes Sean unique to funeral service is his adaptability. This old dog loves himself some new tricks. Self-improvement is second nature to Sean and he is continually educating and training himself. Sean also inspires self-improvement and self-sufficiency in others and is a great source of inspiration to the team. Sean’s talents and interests include carpentry, technology, graphic design, video editing, handiness and last but certainly not least, embalming and cosmetics. Sean has always beat to his own drum and his underlying philosophy turns traditional embalming theory on its head. Sean’s approach sounds simple enough – to make the person look like the person. Sean’s passion is contagious and I find us all continually inspired by him. We are a better company because of him. Thank you Sean for your

to the profession and to the families we serve.

More meetings planned over urban chickens

from page

• Feed must be stored in a rodent-proof container.

• A one-time application and fee. Before a person sets up a coop. a bylaw officer will inspect the yard and coop, but officers will not return unless there is a complaint.

• A limit of the number of chickens depending on the size of the property.

• A demerit point system for infractions.

The timeframe for the pilot is still undecided. PAWR will be contracted for enforcement and inspection services.

Havens said she will explore best practices from other urban backyard chicken programs in Ontario municipalities when developing C-K’s guidelines.

Another public meeting to review the bylaw will also be necessary, at which time deputations will be allowed.

Contributed image

The site of the Discovery Channel’s We Bought a Funeral Home is for sale in Dresden.

Hundts set to retire June 27

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

On June 27, Gail Hundt will mark a watershed moment.

On that date, the long-time president and CEO of the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce will retire, and if all goes according to plan, her husband Jim will step away from his engineering career the same day.

“Rather than retire at different times, we’re retiring at the exact same time,” Hundt recently told The Chatham Voice, noting the couple plans to make the most of their new-found freedom.

Hanging out with three grandkids and helping out with her elderly parents are top priorities. Cycling, hiking and boating are also on the agenda, as is travelling to her husband’s home country of Australia.

Hundt, who has served with the chamber for just over 28 years, said she’s has witnessed sweeping change since 1995.

When the former bank manager started with the chamber, technology was in its infancy.

“It was the days of faxes and we were just getting computers,” said Hundt. “The first thing I did when I came to the chamber was buy a computer and my own chair.”

Navigating the Internet’s influence on the business community has been a constant through the years, Hundt said, and more change is coming as technology evolves.

through the COVID-19 pandemic tops the list.

“On the turn of a dime, the world changed,” she said, noting “endless” Zoom meetings with member businesses, other Ontario chambers and officials from all levels of government became the new norm.

“Everyone had to work through a crisis no one had planned for or encountered before,” she said.

“Change was made,” Hundt explained, with agencies and governments subsidizing and supporting business “the best we could.

“We learned a lot about how you can do business differently and efficiently,” she added, as remote and hybrid work practices became acceptable.

Hundt hired on with the chamber just prior to C-K’ s amalgamation in 1998 – a period that

“We’re on the cusp of AI (Artificial Intelligence) which is going to change things again,” she said, noting that can be both a “blessing and a curse.”

But when it comes to the greatest challenge she faced on the job, Hundt said manoeuvring

After 28 years at the helm of the Chatham-Kent

In fact, her husband is set to retire the same day as

transformed the municipality.

Relationships were – and remain – key, she stressed.

“From an advocacy point of view, when we met with our elected officials, it went from being Chatham to Chatham-Kent,” Hundt said. “Working

with our council, working with our MPs and MPPs, it changed dramatically to the benefit of most.

Gail

retire later

“The majority of what our members and our community sees is the tip of the iceberg.

Continued on page 7

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Chamber of Commerce,

Hundt is to

this month.

well.

Opinion

Tough call

In most situations, what we write here takes a side on a local issue. We can’t do that this week when talking about backyard chickens in urban areas in Chatham-Kent.

Council on May 27 voted in favour of a pilot project for a test run on allowing residents in rural residential and village residential parts of the municipality to have chickens. Just when and where that will take place remains undecided at this time.

could potentially cause the spread of disease and illness, such as avian flu. If that gets into a large-scale poultry facility, the results would be catastrophic for the producer. Entire populations might have to be culled, should that happen.

We see the points for and against.

Given the price of groceries, including eggs, why not let a family have a few chickens – if they are properly contained within a backyard or a coop area – so they can have fresh eggs and save some money in the process?

Inflation coming out of the pandemic has been a killer. So too are the record profits enjoyed by too many of Canada’s grocery chains on the backs of Canadian families.

Proponents will say urban chicken ownership is common practice in many urban centres in Ontario. But this is where the other side comes into play.

Members of the Kent Federation of Agriculture are dead set against allowing backyard chickens. They say it

And in the middle are the people who have to regulate the urban chickens. PAWR (Pet and Wildlife Rescue) personnel and licensing officials will have to check in to make sure the fowl are being treated humanely, and at the same time are properly contained. We do think the cost estimates if the concept goes municipal-wide are pretty high: nearly $90,000 for enforcement and $400,000 for coop inspections.

However, whatever the costs ultimately are, they should be borne by the chicken owners, and not other ratepayers.

There is no easy answer here. A test project makes the most sense.

At least there’s one thing we know about any urban chickens...they won’t be down in Tecumseh Park in Chatham putting the boots to people in the middle of the night, or capping them on King Street with pellet guns. Our teenagers seem to have that sad reality covered.

Our letters to the editor policy

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You can also drop them off or mail

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Don’t saw up the beauty of Victoria Ave.

Editor: Re: “Tree-saving effort cut down” in the May 23 Chatham Voice. Coun. Michael Bondy is correct in calling for a second opinion on cutting down the trees on Victoria Avenue. Preservation should be the key in any decision affecting an area of outstanding natural beauty, which designation Victoria Avenue certainly deserves.

I’m sorry public works

staff had to clear up the detritus from the storm last year, but isn’t that what they are paid for?

For public works director Ryan Brown to suggest removing the trees to be “proactive” is dereliction of duty to the community.

In my 80 years of residence in Ontario, I have yet to see a more beautiful avenue. Many

other towns must be envious of its stately beauty. I suspect Ryan Brown won’t be happy until all the trees are cut down to save his staff from having to clean up any damage. Councillors should be ashamed of their decision.

Editor’s note: This letter is addressed to the mayor and council.

As a long time proponent of the democratic process and in particular proportional representation, I would like to consider Coun. Jubenville’s idea of reviewing electoral boundaries.

Now of course, I don’t

mean to imply any municipal councillor may attempt to gerrymander wards in order to increase the influence of a particular constituency or to inflame a “rural vs. urban” sentiment.

regardless of where we live or the size of property to which we may hold title.

In our representative democracy, each councillor votes on issues that affect all of Chatham-Kent.

We live in a democracy of one person, one vote

Continued on page 7

Bryan Marino Chatham

C-K’s Beach Bus is back...sort of

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Chatham-Kent’s beach bus is set to roll again, albeit in an abbreviated form.

Hundt to retire

Continued from page 5

“What is happening behind the scenes is the advocacy, the relationship building and the appreciation of having the same goals as our community and our elected officials,” Hundt said, while at the same time respecting there may be a difference of opinion of how to get there.

Under Hundt’s leadership, the C-K chamber has won several awards and she has personally been chosen by her peers as the winner of the James Gordon Carnegie Memorial Award for her role as

a mentor and innovative business leader.

Currently, the C-K Chamber has 350 members. The board has 15 directors who are elected annually.

“We have amazing people and volunteers who work hard for the betterment and prosperity of the community,” Hundt said. “There are so many people who want to do good things for us and it’s often behind the scenes. They’re not looking for credit, they’re looking to make a difference.”

Rory Ring has been chosen to succeed Hundt.

Ward boundary issue

Continued from page 6 Councillors that represent a greater number of constituents have less representative voting power than those that represent a smaller number or a minority.

This following provides a measure of the number of people represented by their councillor.

Ward 5 – 3,700

Ward 1 – 4110

Ward 2 – 4127

Ward 3 – 4297

Ward 4 – 4695

Ward 6 – 5,072

So, if we were to consider the present ward boundaries, then Ward 6 (Chatham) could maybe be expanded into the surrounding rural wards. I’m not sure that electors from surrounding wards would be keen on that.

Proportional representation can always be improved but we must look at it objectively.

Ken Bell Ward 2

Following a motion from South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci at the May 27 meeting, elected officials agreed to run the bus service to Erieau and Mitchell’s Bay on a once-amonth trial basis for three

months this summer. The motion directs staff to review the Ride CK service and terminate it if it’s underused and not cost-effective.

Ceccacci said he’s heard from constituents saying the service is needed.

“We just want to give them an opportunity for something that is cost-effective, accessible and feasible for our community,” the councillor told council.

According to an administrative report, the mu-

nicipality stopped running the beach bus routes in 2019, and attempts to revive it during the pandemic faltered. The beach bus was originally implemented in 2010 but use declined over the years.

Ridge House, Milner House open

Both Ridge House Museum and Milner Heritage House have opened for the season.

At the Ridge House Museum, take a guided

tour to see what a middle-class life was like in 1875 or play in the Discovery Den. Walk around the grounds and enjoy the Pollinator Patch – a mix of Ontario native plants and heritage flowers devel-

Watering your lawn is essential for optimum turf health.

Al’s Lawn and Garden can design and install a lawn sprinkler systems which will efficiently and economically water your lawn for years of dependable and trouble free service. We offer spring start ups and mid season check ups to make any adjustments or repairs necessary to ensure your system is running properly.

We also provide a winterization service commonly known as a “blow out” which removes water from your sprinkler system using a high volume industrial air compressor. This economical service will prevent damage from water left to freeze in the sprinkler system’s pipes, heads and other and valves to eliminate costly and unnecessary repairs. All our systems come with an automated controller to start and stop your system any time you wish. Put the frustration of dragging heavy and kinked garden hoses back into the shed. Let an automated sprinkler system give your lawn the water it needs to be the greenest lawn on the block.

oped in partnership with the Ridgetown & District Horticultural Society. Visit the Milner Heritage House for a guided tour and explore what life was like in 1905. Enjoy our new exhibit on 1905 fash-

ion, ”Stitches that Once Spoke,” curated by William Ebere.

Milner Heritage House is located at 59 William St. N. in Chatham Ridge House Museum is Located on 53 Erie St. S. in

Ridgetown.

Both Milner House and the Ridge House Museum are open to drop-in visitors from June 1 to Aug. 31, Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., with extended hours to 7 p.m. on Thursdays. Admission is by donation. For more info, visit chatham-kent.ca/MilnerHouse and chatham-kent. ca/explore/museums/ Pages/Ridge-House-Museum.aspx

The Chatham Voice

Marco Acampora* 519-784-4348

Ashley Amato* 519-365-5677

Dane Appleton* 519-436-7195

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Cottam with great curb appeal. 3br, 2 bath, massive garage. Call David Smith.

Close to grocery,

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Summer students Mackenzie Dore and Paris Poulin

An experience they won’t soon forget

By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative

Members of the 1st Ridgetown Scouts and Venturers recently enjoyed the experience of a lifetime.

Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Venturers, plus their leaders, recently had the opportunity to sleep over in a shark tank overnight.

The girls and boys from 1st Ridgetown spent the night in the Dangerous Lagoon, a clear-glass tube walkway in the Ripley’s Aquarium in downtown Toronto.

The aquarium features 10 galleries and more than 20,000 marine animals from various habitats around the world.

The Dangerous Lagoon is the aquarium’s largest tank, and its sea life includes sharks, octopuses, stingrays, other fish, and sea turtles.

The 1st Ridgetown troop booked the sleepover package, which includes exploring the aquarium, doing hands-on activities, and spending the night in sleeping bags inside the glass maze.

“During regular operating hours, this area of the aquarium can be quite busy,” said First Ridgetown leader Adam Frazee. “It was wonderful to have the entire aquarium to ourselves at night.”

Aquarium staff provided a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility as the troop visited the kitchen to see how food is prepared for the fish, and witnessed how new aquatic life brought into the aquarium adapts before being released into the large tanks.

“It was fascinating to learn that the sharks are quite well-fed, which explains why they do not eat the other wildlife

that they share their tank with,” Frazee said.

Scouts also learned about the problems plastic waste causes in the oceans, and worked on a craft decorating a sustainable cloth shopping bag using the ancient Japanese fish printing technique of Gyotaku.

The youth enjoyed petting stingrays and viewing the rest of the marine life, especially the Giant Pacific Octopus.

After a light snack, it was lights out in the Dangerous Lagoon.

“They turn the lights out, and after your eyes adjust, it’s truly surreal to be lying there and watching the shadows of sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles pass over you,” Frazee said.

The scouts spent the Sunday exploring the rest of Ripley’s Aquarium at their own leisure until it was time for the bus to

152 Queen St. N., Tilbury • $479,900

This well maintained bungalow has everything you need on one floor. This home features 2 bedrooms, possibility for 3, one 4pc bathroom, main floor laundry, good size kitchen and an eating area. The outside is landscaped with a privacy backyard with a deck off the sun room. The garage is 22’ x 24’ and can serve as a man cave; it has a furnace, window air conditioner and 2pc. bath.

Open House Sunday, June 9th 1-3pm

head home.

The troop spent more than two years raising funds by hosting pancake breakfasts and sales from their Apple days to help offset the cost.

The idea for the trip to

the Ripley’s Aquarium was first discussed in 2019.

“We had an overnight at the Air Museum in Hamilton, where we slept under the wings of the big Lancaster, and the lead-

ers talked about what the next big trip would be,” Frazee said.

The Ripley’s Aquarium was the unanimous choice, but their trip was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ridgetown Independent

Image courtesy Adam Frazee

It was a long-awaited trip for the Ridgetown Scouts and Venturers, but they finally managed to make the trip to Ripley’s Aquarium in downtown Toronto for an overnight stay at the aquarium. Pictured above, Alex Dunn and Elizabeth O’Rourke gaze at the fantastic giant sea turtle.

More support for mental health in C-K

The Chatham Voice

Families and children impacted by mental health issues have a team of support this year in the Family Respite Program.

The program, offered by Linck Child, Youth & Family Supports, and Family Service Kent, and is funded by Women United, an affiliated group of the United Way, Chatham-Kent.

The program offers support to children and families affected by men-

tal health challenges. It provides opportunities for children and youth to participate in camps, therapeutic recreation, and other extracurricular activities, which allows parents and caregivers to take a break, recharge, and look after their own mental health and wellbeing.

Recent reviews estimate that parents and caregivers of children and youth with mental health needs face significant challenges. In addition to the more

than 100 hours of additional care they provide each year, parents miss more work time than other caregivers. This can create a financial burden for families.

Respite opportunities offer parents and caregivers breathing room where they can address their own needs and devote time to siblings. It also allows the affected youth a chance just to be kids – socializing, having fun, and taking part in activities.

“We know there is a

critical need for respite opportunities in Chatham-Kent,” says Carol Moore, director of service for mental health with Linck, said in a media release. “This funding will allow us to sustain our support to families. We provide opportunities and support to approximately 60 children and their families each year.”

Moore added Women United provided $15,000 to fund the program, and said the need is growing.

The need for respite

support was identified by the Mental Health Social Planning & Action (SPA) Table, a network of non-profit and health-care professionals.

“I’m heartened to see the tangible impact of our collective efforts in addressing the pressing mental health needs of our community,” said Cathy de Bresser Knowler, public health educator and Mental Health Table facilitator.

“The partnership between our table and Women United demonstrates our

shared commitment to prioritize child and family mental health, especially in the face of heightened challenges post-pandemic. With rates of anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders on the rise, the importance of respite programs cannot be overstated.”

Women United is made up of women in Chatham-Kent dedicated to addressing the urgent needs facing women and their families in the region.

C-K’s top senior to be named on June 6

The 2024 Senior of the Year will be announced during the live broad-

cast of the 2024 Chatham-Kent Celebration of Older Adults on June 6 on YourTV, the municipal Facebook page and the

municipal YouTube channel at 10 a.m..

All nominees will be recognized during this virtual event.

The following volunteers have been nominated for the 2024 Chatham-Kent Senior Achievement Award.

From Wallaceburg: Paul Caron.

From Blenheim: Jim Dale Sr., Doug Johnston, Dr. John Mann, and Rob Vandersluis.

From Thamesville: Julie Callow, and Rhonda McLean.

Continued on page 13

The Chatham Voice

Flags will fly as decided by C-K staff

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

An official flag flying policy for Chatham-Kent’s municipal properties has been adopted by C-K council.

Brought forward by Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew, the motion allows Canada’s Maple Leaf, Ontario’s flag and the municipal flag to fly. Special interest flags to raise awareness and mark events such as Legion Week will be hoisted temporarily as approved. The decision as to which flags will fly will be made by C-K’s manager of corporate communications.

The motion passed 13-5, with councillors Rhonda Jubenville, Ryan Doyle, Amy Finn, Michael Bondy and Lauren Anderson casting no votes.

Jubenville and Bondy both said they disagreed with one person having the power to decide what flags can fly.

Bondy said he didn’t think giving the authority to the manager of corporate communications was wise, as it could be a different person in six months, stressing the decision should be made by council.

Jubenville echoed Bondy. She

Sr. awards

Continued from page 12

From Tilbury: Alphonse Duplessie, Marlene Schives, and Mary Smith. From Ridgetown: Mary Hill. From Merlin: Sharron Skipper. From Bothwell: Larry and Marlain Wolfe.

said that because she is “democratically principled” she has an issue with one person making decisions, but stressed it’s nothing personal against whoever the communications manager may be.

“For that reason, I can’t adopt this policy,” she added. “I like the idea of council making the decision on it.

I don’t like the idea of one person making it, no matter who that one person is.”

However, Cathy Hoffman, C-K’s general manager of human resources and corporate services, said the decision-maker would have to follow the criteria laid out in the policy, and other top administrators would be consulted if there were questions.

racism, or those that are politically or religiously motivated or deemed to be discriminatory under the Ontario Human Rights Code.

If a flag request is denied, Hoffman said the issue would come to council in an appeal process, which, according to the policy, would have the “full and final say.” Council will be made aware of all approvals and denials, the policy states. Flag requests must be made six weeks prior to the event.

“Council’s job is to oversee and provide governance and not micro-manage and do all the tedious tasks. Our job is to set direction and to make sure staff knows that direction.”

- Coun. Marjorie Crew

Free Seminar

According to the report, the policy states the municipality will not fly the flag of a group or organization whose undertakings or philosophy are contrary to the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s policies or bylaws, including, but not limited to espousing hatred, violence,

Estate Planning 101

Free Seminar Estate Planning 101

Chatham-Kent’s controversial flag flap ignited last spring after the municipality turned down a request from Life in Motion, an arm of Right to Life Kent, to fly the organization’s flag. That led Jubenville to put forward a motion that only government flags be flown on municipal properties. But in circumstances similar to other Ontario municipalities, the issue devolved into a fren-

zied social media debate about the appropriateness of flying 2SLGBTQ+ Pride flags in the municipality.

Subsequently, a motion by Crew to develop a made-inChatham-Kent flag policy was approved, directing administration to return a report to council.

Traditionally, flying special interest flags is a long-time practice in Chatham-Kent. A total of 45 special interest flag requests were received by the municipality in 2023.

Crew said the new policy is “nice and clear” and provides a framework for decision making.

“Council’s job is to oversee and provide governance and not micro-manage and do all

the tedious tasks,” Crew said. “Our job is to set direction and to make sure staff knows that direction.”

Wallaceburg Coun. Aaron Hall said flying community flags has been a “traditional way to celebrate” across Chatham-Kent.

“It isn’t a process that is broken,” Hall said in support of the new policy. “It allows council now, and in the future, to continue this tradition in our communities.”

An amendment to put up a new community flagpole for special interest flags was withdrawn by Crew. However, the motion also saw council approve a bridge lighting display policy, which will also commemorate various campaigns and causes.

Estate planning is a crucial step towards securing your financial future.

crucial step towards securing your financial future.

planning, where you will gain valuable insights into the various tools and options available to protect and maximize your wealth for generations to come.

From Chatham: Martin Aarts, James Adams, Cy Addley, Pierre Cadotte, Robert Christie, Eleanor DeBresser, Inder and Jarnail Gahunia, Doug and Linda Goldsmith, Helen Havens, Nancy Hrytzak, Sue Kelly, Ruth Loxton, Dianne Lloyd, Tom Mountain, Antonio Pisquem, Joe Prescot, Dava Robichaud, Dick Roe, Chuck Rylett, amd James Snyder.

Planning your estate ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimizes potential conflicts among your beneficiaries.

Planning your estate ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and minimizes potential conflicts among your beneficiaries.

Join us for a free and informative session on estate planning, where you will gain valuable insights into the various tools and options available to protect and maximize your wealth for generations to come.

Join us for a free and informative session on estate planning, where you will gain valuable insights into the various tools and options available to protect and maximize your wealth for generations to come.

Date: Time: Location: Wednesday June 19, 2024 10:00 AM Active Lifestyle Centre 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham, ON N7M 6G9 2nd Session at 1:30pm

Date: Time: Location: Wednesday June 19, 2024 10:00 AM Active Lifestyle Centre

Date: Wednesday June 19, 2024

Time: 10:00 AM

20 Merritt Ave, Chatham, ON N7M 6G9 2nd Session at 1:30pm

Location: Active Lifestyle Centre

Space is limited. Please RSVP to 519-354-5754 x 4000 by Monday June 10, 2024. sherry.coppo@scotiabank.com

20 Merritt Ave, Chatham, ON N7M 6G9 2nd Session at 1:30pm

Space is limited. Please RSVP to 519-354-5754 x 4000 by Monday June 10, 2024. sherry.coppo@scotiabank.com

Space is limited. Please RSVP to 519-354-5754 x4000 by Monday June 10, 2024. sherry.coppo@scotiabank.com

New team to run iconic shop

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

After 34 years of scooping up smiles and tasty ice-cold treats, the Mehlenbachers have sold The Cone and Shake Shop in Chatham.

John and Francine Mehlenbacher closed the deal with new owners Caitlin McCauley and Aidyn Lamb on May 29. Francine Mehlenbacher

said she and her husband really enjoyed running the popular ice cream and frozen yogurt shop on Queen Street.

“We’re ready to retire. We’ve enjoyed it for 34 years, but it was time to

hand over the reins to someone younger and with more energy,” she said.

She admits she will miss the many friendly faces.

“We’ve enjoyed it for 34 years, but it was time to hand over the reins to someone younger and with more energy.”

“Our customers, a lot of them we saw when they came as children,”

- Francine Mehlenbacher

she said. “We have a lot of people bring their wedding parties here and have wedding photos taken at the shop. And we’ve seen them bring their kids here.”

McCauley said when she and Lamb saw The Cone and Shake

Shop up for sale, they had to act.

“It’s iconic. The moment we saw it on the market, we thought it would be a great opportunity,” she said. “We’ve grown up coming here. We just had to jump on it.”

She said the duo is prepared for the long hours and hard work.

“We’re going to carry it on and try to make them proud,” McCauley said of

the Mehlenbachers.

They don’t plan on making any changes in the short term.

“We’re going to keep it fairly similar, get our feet on the ground for the summer,” McCauley said.

“But there might be some exciting things coming in the fall.”

The shop will feature longer hours immediately, however.

Continued on page 15

Cone and Shake Shop has new owners

Continued from page 14

The new owners plan to be open seven days a week during the summer, with hours from noon to 10 p.m. daily.

They said they expect to keep dishing up the chilly treats later into the season then their predecessors had done.

As for those predecessors, the Mehlenbachers don’t plan on staying away from the shop.

“We will be back as patrons. We’re going to ride our bikes here,” Mehlenbacher said. They’ll just be on the

other side of the window.

David Smith of Royal LePage Peifer Realty, the agent who listed the business, said inquiries over the potential purchase of the shop came from across Canada and even the U.S.

Dare to Pair

Red Barn Brewing is hosting its second Dare to Pair event, where 50 people can enjoy a fivecourse meal paired with the brewery’s craft beer. The formal event on June 18 will feature a surprise chef, as well as Red Barn head brewer Steve

Goodal. They’ll discuss how they create, curate and collaborate by pairing culinary delights and a variety of beer styles.

The meal will feature beer sampling and tasting notes for each course, on top of the discussion between the brewer and chef.

Alyson Morris and the Jazz Messengers will provide ambience throughout the evening.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the dinner commences at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $125 each.

Continued on page 17

SHOPLocal

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Francine Mehlenbacher and Caitlin McCauley celebrate the transfer of ownership of The Cone and Shake Shop in Chatham. Francine and husband John recently sold the business to McCauley and partner Aidyn Lamb.

Community Events

Thursday, June 6, 2024:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Friday, June 7, 2024:

• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, or chat about life. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! All ages & allies welcome.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am9:30pm. Kitchen open to serve lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00-6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are cheeseburger and fries or fish & chips, $13.00. Take out available - call 519-351-8733 or 519351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a meat loaf dinner with potatoes, vegetable, salad and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. All meals are served at 6pm. Please call daily at 519-352-8291 to order. Everyone welcome.

• The Active Lifestyle Centre Yoga with Maryanne Class from 9-10am! Open to the Public at 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham! Class also held on Mondays 1-2:30pm. Daily User fees apply: $3 Members, $6 Non-Members 519-352-5633.

Saturday, June 8, 2024:

• Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St. and Wellington). A delicious and nutritious breakfast served free of charge from 9:30am-11:00am, serving indoors, no take out. Wheelchair accessible.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 3:00pm5:30pm. Entertainment by D.A.M. Band from 4:30-9:30. Come check out our menu. Everyone Welcome.

• ACWAM Yard Sale at Knox Presbyterian Church, 251 Duncan Street, Wallaceburg from 8am-1pm. Proceeds to our Mission Work in Haiti and the world plus local missions. Something for everyone.

Sunday, June 9, 2024:

• Jaimee Doyle (Huckle) Memorial Classic Auto Show. Free family event, everyone welcome! Registration at 8am, open to all. Non perishable collection for

the Blenheim Word of Life Soup Kitchen and Food Bank. Selling t-shrits, hot dogs, chips and water. 50/50. Rain date: Saturday June 15th. Shrewsbury Community Center. 112 New Scotland Line, 9am3pm. Info: 519-784-3030.

• Veterans’ Memorial Day 2024 - to honour those Canadian Forces’ members from our community and Canada-wide who are serving or who have served our country during war and peacekeeping. 2:00 pm at the Arnold Cemetery Grounds at 10282 Longwoods Road, just west of Louisville in Chatham-Kent. Open to all.

• Calling all Veterans. The Chatham Legion will be hosting a Buddy Check for all Veterans from 10:00am–12:00pm. Enjoy a coffee and talk to other Veterans. This venue is for Veterans Only.

• Trinity ARP is moving from Chatham Christian Schools to 530 Victoria Ave, room ‘Q’. Services will continue at the regular times on Sundays 10am and 5pm. Parking will be at the back of the building off of Crerar St. For more information visit our website Trintiyarp.org or call our minister 226-580-2671.

Monday, June 10, 2024:

• Chatham Branch of CKPL Book Sale in the Community Living Café. June 10-15 during library branch hours (or while supplies last). Browse our large selection of adult fiction. Please bring your own bag. All proceeds from the sale will support library programs and services.

Tuesday, June 11, 2024:

• Wallaceburg Newcomer Event at the Wallaceburg & District Museum, 505 King St., Wallaceburg. Everyone is invited, whether you’ve been here 5 days, 5 years, or a lifetime. This is a family friendly event from 1:30-3:30pm.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 11:00am-1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Come play Euchre at 1:00 or spend the evening playing Shuffleboard or Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Enjoy a friendly game of euchre, 7:00 pm. Br. 642 Legion, 39 William St. Chatham, $5/person, For information, call 519-351-8733.

Wednesday, June 12, 2024:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Our daily special is meat loaf Dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• The Active Lifestyle Centre Evening Pepper at 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham from 5-8:30pm is open to the public for $4! The more the merrier and stay as long as you like! AND Time to Talk Tech with Wes from 10-11am and open to the public! Daily User fees apply: $3 Members, $6 Non-Members. 519-352-5633.

• Come, Now is the Time to Worship” with singer/song-writer Brian Doerksen in concert at 7 pm at St. Paul’s Discover Life Church, 450 Park Ave. W, Chatham. To learn more or for tickets, go to www. briandoerksen.com

Thursday, June 13, 2024:

• Retired Workers Chapter Meeting. Enjoy coffee, baked goods and visit with friends & former fellow workers. Keep up to date with the community, pensions, benefits and info. Spouses are welcome. 10:00am at the Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham.

• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 330-630pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, read a book, or chat about life. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! All ages & allies welcome.

• 1st Annual Youth Juried Art Show Closing Ceremonies and Awards Night at the Wallaceburg and District Museum Art & Education room. Everyone welcome. Refreshments. 6pm-7pm. Award Ceremony 6:15pm.

• Join us at Sons of Kent 4-8pm for the Tie One On Event, an evening of craft brews and fashion with over 400 ties to choose from! All proceeds raised will be donated to Pet and Wildlife Rescue!

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meeting will be a week early (June 13) for June only at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Meeting starts at 6:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us, fee for non-members is $10 per meeting. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www. ckquiltguild.com for more information.

• The Active Lifestyle Centre Yoga with Maryanne Class from 9-10am! Open to the Public at 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham! The class is also held on Mondays from 1-2:30pm. Daily User fees apply: $3 Members, $6 Non-Members. 519-3525633.

Fun Stuff

10. Sensationalist periodical

12. Soft-bodied beetle

14. Very fast airplane 15. Imaginative creation

17. Recipe measurement (abbr.)

19. Evoked a response

20. French river

23. Shiny yellow minerals

24. Make illegal

25. U.S. military branch

CLUES ACROSS

1. Baby’s dining accessory

4. Something free

8. Ancient Egyptian deity

10. Set-like mathematical categories

11. Top-quality

12. Expansive

13. Seizure

15. People with congenital absence of pigment

16. Gains

17. Mocked online

18. Clint’s son

21. Body part

22. Humor

23. Code number

24. Your physique

25. Family of regulator genes

26. LA football player (abbr.)

27. “The Blonde Bombshell”

34. Charity

35. Bluish greens

36. Examined closely

37. A type of equation

38. Stretched uncomfortably

39. Indian religious god

40. Clocks

41. Slowly leak through

42. Witnesses

43. Midway between south and southeast

CLUES DOWN

1. Nestlings

2. Induces vomiting

3. A place to eat

4. Partner in the air

5. Offered one’s take

6. Nobel-winning French biologist

7. Farm animals

9. Prevent from growing

26. River in France and Belgium

27. A woman of refinement

28. Male child

29. Type of medication

30. German city

31. Animal disease

32. Mediterranean dietary staple

33. Sneak out

34. Radioactivity unit

36. Performs on stage

Celebrating Titan’s new location

Continued from page 15

Titan Forklifts received surprise guests recently, as a team from Chatham-Kent Economic Development Services and Mayor Darrin Canniff popped by.

They handed over a certificate of recognition on the new location, and a celebration of eight years in business in C-K.

Rotimi Osuntola, consultant and business manager for Titan, said he and staff showcased the variety of equipment Titan builds and ships to dealers. That included electric, diesel and LNG powered forklifts, as well as custom/specialty options.

Osuntola said Titan personnel showed how they design the components to be installed on each machine, send the specs out to the manufacturer and then test out the machines before they’re shipped off to dealers.

The number and scope of Titan dealers continues to expand. Osuntola said they ship across Canada and are expanding into the U.S.

Titan custom designs its products and have them assembled using made in North America, Germany and Japan.

Nest supports reading program

Nest Realty, along with Ashley Ewald of RBC, held the second annual Play for a Purpose fundraiser recently, raising $2,200 to help young children take an interest in reading.

The funds are earmarked for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, to which the local Kiwanis Club is affiliated.

The Imagination Library is a free book-gifting program devoted to inspiring a love of reading in young children in partnership with local community partners.

Tea time

Mrs. Bell’s Tea Room is back open.

The tea room shifted locations from Third Street to Grand Avenue East in Chatham.

Owner Wanda Bell said the new location offers several amenities that will enhance the

tablecloths, china and the cozy, romantic décor is continued in the new location.

The Tea Room is now at 241 Grand Ave. E. next to Mighty Jim’s Variety.

• Business Voice is a

bi-monthly column in The Chatham Voice that highlights some of the achievements made and efforts underway in Chatham-Kent’s business community. Send your information to bruce@chathamvoice.com

customer experience, including onsite parking, more space, an expanded menu, hand-crafted and vintage items for sale, and a wheelchair-accessible entrance and washroom.

“It was a much longer wait than expected, but it will be worth it when I am able serve those who have mobility issues,” Bell said in a media release. “Accessibility was a key component to the renovation,

and caused several hiccups along the way, but I am glad that everyone can now experience the tea room.”

The new tea room will still offer traditional, vintage afternoon tea, but new menu items such as quiche and soup will allow for folks to come in on a more regular basis. The use of

Contribued image

Titan Forklifts owner Don Tetrault, left, and Mayor Darrin Canniff celebrate the new location of the company on Seventh Line just south of Chatham.

William “Bill” Jenkins

OBITUARIES

90, Saturday, May 25, 2024

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Bryan Downie

77, Sunday, May 26, 2024

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Lillian Taffeiren

102, Saturday, May 25, 2024

Kendrick Funeral Home

Dorothy Provost

77, Monday, May 27, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Myra Theresa Moore

71, Monday, May 27, 2024

Badder Funeral Home

Alva Simmons

87, Monday, May 27, 2024

Badder Funeral Home

Ron Willis

84, Saturday, May 25, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

George Meyers

67, Monday, May 27, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Bruce Burch

93, Tuesday, May 21, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Elaine Zimmer

85, Tuesday, May 21, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Connie Beaulieu

76, Sunday, May 26, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Classifieds

Sharon Lorraine Jordan

80, Wednesday, May 29, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Gerald Martin

87, Thursday, May 30, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Rosalinda “Linda” Mary Lauzon

61, Sunday, May 19, 2024 Life Transitions

Richard Cleland

77, Thursday, May 23, 2024 Life Transitions

Kenneth Reaume

69, Friday, May 24, 2024 Life Transitions

Jacklynn Richie

Saturday, May 25, 2024 Life Transitions

Pamela Sterling

54, Sunday, May 26, 2024 Life Transitions

Marie “Rii” Woodliffe

71, Sunday, May 26, 2024 Life Transitions

Amy (Jackson) Coady

57, Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Mary Rosina Formosa

91, Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries

LARGE AUCTION SALE

St. Simon & St. Jude Parish Hall 267 Meunier St., Belle River Saturday, June 15th

Preview: 8:00am, Auction Starts: 9:00am L3350 Kabota with front end loader scrapper blade 3pt mower, 4 wheel drive, Carry all-11 golf cart, brand new horse saddle, large quantity of brand new tools, Chinese grandfather clock, 2 carousel horses, large popcorn machine on wheels, Royal Doultons, large storage unit packed coming to the sale. Go to this website for pictures & more info www.murrayknappauctions.com

TERMS: CASH OR CHEQUE WITH PROPER I.D. NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ACCIDENTS DAY OF SALE. MURRAY KNAPP AUCTIONEER 519-727-8894

Summer Camp

Summer Camp ages 7 and up and ages 4-6 Little Britches. Monday to Friday 9am4pm. Horsemanship lessons, horseback/ pony riding, outdoor games, scavenger hunts, crafts, outdoor farm fun, water games and Camp Achievement Day to finish off the week, with family members welcome to attend. Register your child today, while opening are available. $499 per week plus tax per camper. Call 519354-7517.

Asphalt

Wanted

Wanted to rent or buy 1 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-3525414 or 226-6275414.

Wanted: scrap air conditioners, dehumidifiers and misc. Phone 226229-2614.

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.

For Sale

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411

Lessons

Beginner Guitar Lessons. Call 519917-2339.

Happy Birthday

Pat’s family wants to extend an Invitation to Come to Wish Her Special Birthday Wishes

Beth, Vera, Bill, Glenda and Sheila June 15th 12:30 to 4pm at the St Clair Estates Clubhouse on Dunkirk. Small luncheon available.

Classifieds

Celebration of Life

In Memoriam

Celebrating the life of John Rountree

January 6, 2024

Sunday, June 9th, 2024

2:00pm - 5:00pm

Hidden Hills Golf Club

Don McGregor

June 3, 2023

25393 St Clair Rd, Dover Centre

Silent Auction of 4 Prints of Johns Artwork with proceeds going to the Chatham Hospice.

A resident of Chatham, Gerry Martin passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice with his family at his side on Thursday, May 30, 2024 at the age of 87. Born in Chatham, Gerry was the son of the late Jack and Grace (née Campbell) Martin. Beloved husband of almost 65 years to Vivian (née Arnold). Father of Jamie Martin (Wendy) of Rockwood, Kevin Martin (Wendy) of Windsor, Brad Martin (Melanie) of Chatham and Greg Martin (Bev) of Burlington. Loving Grandpa of Cassey Beauvais (Jon); Victoria Martin (Matt), Jackson Martin (Hannah); Brandon Martin (Melanie), Austin Martin, Laura Martin (Mallory), Kate Martin (Connor); and Grace Martin. Great-Grandpa of Sophie, Tristan and Bostyn. Predeceased by his four brothers, Terry (late Donna), Lynn (Sandy), Denny (late Carol) and Art. Brother-in-law to Janet Foster (Ted), Jim Arnold (Susan) and Dan Arnold (Sandy). Also missed by many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family. Gerry retired as technician from Bell after 37 years of service. He also managed the Dresden Raceway for over 25 years. Gerry loved to golf, managing to get nine hole-in-ones over the course of his life. In his younger years, Gerry, his father and his brothers were a formidable hockey team. Gerry and Vivian enjoyed many winters in Florida. As per Gerry’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life was held at the McKinlay Reception Centre, 463 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 3:00 - 6:00pm. A Private Family Service was held at Arnold Cemetery, Louisville. Donations made in memory of Gerry to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.

In memory of our beloved husband, father and grandfather who passed away one year ago. Your presence we miss, Your memory a treasure, Loving you always, Forgetting you never.

Love from Barb, Michelle, Melody, Sam, Keith & Nikki, Max & Shaide.

Obituaries

Jordan, Sharon (nee Jackson)

A resident of Chatham, Sharon Jordan peacefully passed with her family by her side on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at Maple City Residence at the age of 80. She was the daughter of the late Frederick & Edna (nee Dickhout) Jackson. Sharon will be lovingly reunited with her late husband, Donald Jordan (2014). Forever remembered by her daughters, Lisa Roffelsen (Henry) & Deanne Jordan (Rick Lapp). Sister of the late Larry Jackson, Danny Jackson (the late Pamela) and the late Carol Jackson. Missed by extended family. Sharon worked with the Southwest Regional Centre, Dealtown before deciding to stay home to raise her daughters. She continued to volunteered with Chatham-Kent Secondary School with the Special Education program. Sharon was an original mall walker, continuing walking through nature, until she wasn’t able to any longer. She had a passion for nature, loved bird watching, butterflies, flowers and her cats. Sharon will forever be missed and her family know the sun will be shining on her wherever she is. The family would like extend their sincere appreciation to the staff of Maple City Residence for their care and compassion during Sharon’s time with them. As per Sharon’s wishes, cremation has taken place with a Celebration of Life at a later date. In memory of Sharon, donations may be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519 351 2040

Door to Door Delivery in Chatham and in convenient pick up location throughout Chatham-Kent

Chatham: Anne’s Smoke Shop, Downtown Chatham Centre, Legion Branch 628, Maple City Bakery, Loads of Love, Active Lifestyle Centre, Wimpys, Royal LePage, Pharmasave, Schinkels, Lenovers, Betty Brite, Real Canadian Superstore, Hasty Market, Library

Wallaceburg: Shoppers Drug Mart, 99.1CKXS, Taylor’s Variety, Black Goose, No Frills, Hometown Deli, Library Dresden: MacTavish Pharmacy, Godfathers, Dresden Meat Packers, Library Thamesville: Fast & Fresh, Movie Den, Studio 519, Library Blenheim: McIntyre I.D.A. Pharmacy, Jim’s Barber Shop, Blenheim Seniors Centre, Blenheim Variety, Blenheim Municipal Service Centre, Library

Erieau: Eau Buoy, Bayside Brew Pub Pain Court: Pain Court Market, Central Tavern Mitchell’s Bay: Mitchell’s Bay Variety, Dover Duds Merlin: Merlin General Store, Library Tilbury: Ashley’s Place, Library Charing Cross: Post Office/Bert’s Plumbing Wheatley: Circle K Store, Jack’s Restaurant, Library Bothwell: Library Highgate: Library Ridgetown: Library