Last week’s heavy rain soaked many parts of Chatham-Kent, including the municipal
ment. In fact, the encampment got flooded out, forcing the squatters to relocate.
Flooding forces camp’s relocation
campment in Chatham’s downtown. And while it’s welcome news for downtown Chatham business owners, those providing outreach are worried the homeless won’t be able to access the services they need. A faulty catch basin has been blamed for flooding at Municipal Parking Lot # 9 on Wellington Street. As a result, the 40 or so people living there in 10 tents have moved on. As of July 12, the lot was clean and empty.
However, Loree Bailey, general manager of Hope Haven, located just mere steps away from the parking lot, said she’s concerned about the welfare of the homeless people that were living in the parking lot. Staff saw them on a daily basis when the centre is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Continued on page 3
Pam Wrifht/The Chatham Voice
Street in downtown Chatham, site of a homeless encamp-
Some happy, some concerned
Continued from page 2
“At least when they were here, we could check on them,” Bailey said. “The reality is they need a certain level of support.”
According to Bailey, substance abuse and mental health problems plagued many in the encampment, noting staff administered naloxone nine times in a single week in response to opioid overdoses.
But Bailey is quick to point out that not everyone who comes to the faith-based outreach for help is homeless.
“Some of the people have places to live and jobs, but they just can’t afford food,” Bailey ex-
plained. “Some of them come just to get a sandwich.”
Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic housing stability worker Jeff Wilkins said the issue of homeless encampments, particularly in downtown areas, is a thorny one.
While far from ideal, Wilkins said the Wellington Street tent village was close to Hope Haven, allowing those in need to access a computer, get something to eat, grab a shower, use the toilet or perhaps meet with a worker.
“They need the resources,” Wilkins stressed.
While encampments might be
okay in warm weather, Wilkins pointed out when winter arrives, transient encampments won’t be safe.
“Chatham-Kent is going to have to find a more permanent solution,” he said.
The municipality is working on it. According to communications manager Eric Labadie, C-K is examining the way other municipalities are dealing with homelessness and developing “more detailed policy and guidelines to
address encampments.
Continued on page 4
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Jeff Wilkins of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and Loree Bailey of Hope Haven, survey the damage wrought by the flooding of the homeless encampment located in the parking lot beside Hope Haven.
‘We need to do something’
Continued from page 3
“We are communicating with other municipalities that are experiencing similar issues to assist in determining best practices, next steps and interim solutions while new housing is being built,” Labadie said.
The issue continues to be a top priority, he said, noting various staff and community stakeholders are working together “towards solutions to these very complex issues.”
Andrew Thiel, Abstract
Marketing president and Historic Downtown Chatham BIA board co-chair, hopes a solution can be found.
While he agrees it’s a shame people are driven to live in encampments, existing beside the one at Hope Haven has been “incredibly stressful” for business owners and residents.
Thiel said the situation got worse day by day, with tents taking up parking spaces and sketchy behaviour of some of the ten-
ters scaring people away from the downtown.
Business owners have invested heavily, he added, and they didn’t want to lay off staff or close.
“The lot was simply unsafe,” Thiel said, noting business owners and residents have been yelled at, threatened and had their property vandalized.
Active addiction was a problem, he said.
“Last month there were three overdoses in one day, there were constant physical assaults and a plethora of illegal activities running around the clock,” he said.
The lack of sanitation, dirty needles and other biohazards added to the problem.
After observing the encampment closely for a period of time, Thiel said it’s changed the way he and others view encampments.
“The narrative has to change from thinking that just looking away is all right,” he said. “We need to do something. Looking
the other way does not encourage them to seek counselling or get the help they need; it enables them to continue a lifestyle of harming themselves and those around them.”
Part of the encampment has relocated to Rotary Park on the north side of the Thames River near the Third Street Bridge.
Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice
An encampment of homeless individuals sprouted up in Rotary Park on Thames Street right after another one beside Hope Haven was flooded out.
A preliminary look at possible 2025 tax hike
By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative The Ridgetown Independent
Chatham-Kent taxpayers are looking at an increase of more than nine per cent in 2025 for the second of the municipality’s newly instituted four-year budget.
Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey brought the proposed tax increase to the floor at the June 24 council meeting.
On June 19, councillors received an email from the Executive Management Team, through Mayor Darrin Canniff, asking for suggestions on how to find savings with the prospect of nearly a double tax increase for residents.
Councillors were asked to submit their suggestions by June 28.
“This seemed like a condensed timeline and we want to make sure we make those decisions in an informed way,” Storey said at the June 24 meeting.
The multi-year format was introduced last November, as council whittled down a proposed 6.57-per-cent hike to a 5.53-per-cent increase for 2024 and an overall average increase of 7.82 per cent over four years.
The expected tax increases were 8.18 per cent for 2025, 7.7 per cent for 2026, and 7.3 per cent for 2027.
“Council has already, in principle, approved an 8.18-per-cent increase next year. However, council has also authorized expenditures that have raised it above nine per cent,” said Gord Quinton, Chief Financial Officer, at the June 24 council meeting. “It’s basically an ask by the mayor, through me to
council, is there anything in particular you want staff to look at through the summer, any ideas for savings or any ideas for service level changes you’d like us to look into.”
“Otherwise, EMT will do their best to bring a responsible budget update for 2025 in the fall,” Quinton said.
With the change to a multiyear format, Quinton said the November full budget process will not be the usual one.
“We’ve already gone through the fine details and thousands of lines when we came up with the 8.18; we don’t have to go through all of that again,” Quinton said.
“It’s just what has changed, and we’re requesting information.”
John Wright, East Kent councillor, knows residents will not be happy with the prospect of doubling their taxes.
“I don’t know where we’re going to get it; we’ve cut and cut and cut,” Wright said of finding savings. “No one wants services cut, and you can’t cut wages; they’re going to have to go up the way inflation is going.”
“If we’re going to have to start cutting, I hate to say it, but the easy cuts will be staff,” Wright declared.
For Morena McDonald, who replaced Steve Pinsonneault representing East Kent in June, it will be baptism under fire as she prepares for her first budget process.
“It’s something I’ll experience for the first time; I’m looking forward to the discussion,” McDonald said.
“But I know there will be a lot of big and difficult decisions when it’s time for the
deliberations.”
Councillors had a mixed reaction to the intent and timing of the administration’s email.
“To be honest, it’s kind of a ridiculous request,” said South Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson. “What am I supposed to come up with, sitting at my coffee table without any criteria, paperwork or potential savings in front of me?”
“It is our job to provide direction; it is really not our job to come up with ideas sitting at home on June 19 when the budget starts in November, and you’re giving us nine days,” Thompson said.
South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci, who submitted a list of 10 recommendations for administration to consider, said the lack of provincial funding to municipalities has especially put Chatham-Kent in a financial bind.
“There’s more taxation revenue than ever before available to upper levels of government, yet the streaming sources to municipalities hasn’t altered whatsoever,” Ceccacci said. “Our own taxes should be paying for underground infrastructure, roads, parks, recreational amenities ... not providing immense social service packages like shelters and small cabins.”
Ceccacci said public feedback is essential to gauge interest in divesting municipal assets or reducing services in the wake of skyrocketing costs.
South Kent Councillor Ryan Doyle said he would like to see an increase between zero and five percent.
Continued on page 7
Looks delicious!
The 15th rendition of Chatham Ribfest took place July 5-7
featuring tangy offerings from seven different ribbers,
as well as live music and entertainment. Here, Tennessean
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
in Tecumseh Park,
family fun options galore,
David Rickman, of Jack the Ribber, shows off his handiwork.
As Chatham-Kent residents are in the middle of enjoying their summer, they were hit with a rather chilling number recently: nine per cent.
That’s where the initial number sits on the 2025 tax increase at the moment.
Granted, we are months away from municipal administration putting forward the “official” proposed tax increase for 2025 and even further away from council trimming that budget, but … nine per cent.
Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey brought the matter up at the end of a recent council meeting after councillors received an email asking for suggestions for trimming.
Some councillors seemed offended they were even asked. South Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson called it a “ridiculous request. What am I supposed to come up with, sitting at my coffee table without any criteria, paperwork or potential savings in front of me?”
Opinion
Tough decisions lie ahead Homeless situation getting out of hand
Perhaps a skit from the British television show “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” sums matters up for how the municipality is spending.
Woman 1: “Been shopping.”
Woman 2: “Did you buy anything?”
Woman 1: “A piston engine.”
Woman 2: “What did you buy that for?”
Woman 2: “Oooh, it was a bargain.”
Just because there is potential for a public private partnership, or some element of funding from senior levels of government are insufficient reasons to opt go ahead and build, create and spend.
We’re not saying running a municipality is an easy task, but the onus is on our elected officials to seek options in terms of limiting tax increases. And it means digging deeper than what municipal departments present each year come budget time or rubberstamping the police budget each year.
Perhaps councillors have seen signs of municipal largesse while out and about. They are doing more than sit around their coffee tables, aren’t they?
East Kent Coun. John Wright said if more cuts have to be made, it could be personnel.
Tough decisions, but council should consider paying more attention to every penny spent. It all adds up.
Ask for cuts. There are savings to be had. But the budget binder likely does not contain the info. Look deeper.
South Kent Coun. Ryan Doyle said he’d like to see every department come back with proposed savings of between five and 10 per cent.
Keeping our taxes in check is part of the reason taxpayers pay councillors for their work.
Make the tough decisions.
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The publisher of this newspaper, CK Media Inc., reserves the right to clarify or refuse any advertisement based on its sole discretion. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement without notice or penalty to either party.
Liability for errors or non-insertion is limited to the amount paid for the cost of space occupied by the error. Claims of errors must be made prior to the next publication date.
Editor: A recent article of George Kyle sleeping under a bridge in Chatham opened some eyes. For him, as the story goes, the trouble starts when he closes his eyes.
Yet it states he had a room, but only had it for two weeks as he was evicted because he did not get along with his landlord.
He has had a bike stolen, and also a tablet, and has had his wallet stolen four times. That’s careless. When the authorities move an encampment under one bridge, they said they hoped there would be no more. I, for one, was under the impression that was not
going to be allowed again. When I asked one person in authority how come it was being allowed, the answer was that the municipality worked with the initial group of ten and talked them into going to the homeless shelter.
The 7-Eleven on Grand Avenue is quite the hangout place, also there is panhandling that goes on
Editor: We had to go to Walmart in Wallaceburg recently to pick up our advertised air fryers because Chatham and Windsor did not have any left.
We were in total sur-
But we can’t just say you have to move. It’s their right. I guess they earned it.
All this talk about how many people are flocking to Chatham to live, if the homeless situation is allowed to get much worse, they will wonder if they did the right thing, and perhaps move on.
It is surprising that this George Kyle said he moved from London to here 20 years ago. That’s about the time when a lot more did the same, no doubt hearing how good Chatham was and the freebies to be had. That’s when most of all this started.
Helping some people who need help and trying is a good thing, but it is out of hand.
Ruth Draper Chatham
prise that the smaller WalMart store was well organized and exceptionally clean. The bathrooms were immaculate.
I even went out of my
way to tell one of the employees of my observations. They even had lots of employees to help us.
Joe & Gloria Strik Chatham
C-K cop faces assault charges
The Chatham
A veteran member of the Chatham-Kent Police Service is up on criminal charges.
Const. Fraser Curtis, a 14-year-member of the police service, is charged with uttering threats and assault.
Windsor police laid the charges.
According to police, the charges are related to an on-duty incident that occurred on June 26 in Chatham.
Upon learning about the incident, CKPS called in the Windsor police to conduct an independent investigation.
No one was injured as a result of the incident, police say.
Curtis is limited to administrative duties at this time. He returns to court Aug. 20.
Police say no further information will be released at this time in order to protect the integrity of the investigation.
Coun. Doyle wants 5-10% savings from each C-K department
Continued from page 5
“It’s too high of a tax increase, especially after the ones we’ve had the last two years,” Doyle said of the current proposed hike. “I would like to see each department look for five to 10 percent in savings.”
Storey said she is concerned but not surprised by the prospect of residents’ taxes being doubled.
“Just like costs for just about everything have gone up in our own households, costs have skyrocketed for the municipality, which
means we have to be even more careful with taxpayer dollars and question every dollar spent,” Storey said. “We have to question every proposal and ask if it’s a ‘must do’ or a ‘nice to do.’
“Unfortunately, this is not a council term where we can really afford to consider the ‘nice to do’ initiatives,” she said.
Storey said the proposed tax hike heightens her stance against the municipality’s purchase of the former Sears building to house the Civic Centre, library and museum.
PLAN TO ATTEND! 41st ANNUAL BLENHEIM CHERRY-FEST & SIDEWALK DAYS
THURSDAY, JULY 18th
9AM • Cherry Fest and Amazing All Day Shopping 10AM - 10PM• World’s Finest Show Rides ($25 Ticket Ride All Day)
9AM - 7PM Vendor Market and Food Trucks
12PM-1PM Andrew & Cole (West Stage)
2PM- 3PM Andrew & Cole (West Stage)
4PM- 5PM Taylor’s Dance Academy
5PM- 6PM Steppin’ Out Line Dancers
6PM - 7PM Blenheim Dance Collective
Fun Filled Days of
7:30PM - 10:30PM Cherry-Oke featuring South Paw (On the Main Stage)
FRIDAY, JULY 19th
9AM • Cherry Fest and Amazing All Day Shopping 10AM - 10PM• World’s Finest Show Rides ($25 Ticket Ride All Day)
9AM-7PM Vendor Market and Food Trucks
12PM - 1PM Andrew & Cole (West Stage)
2:30PM - 4PM BREN (Performs Sing-A-Long Hit Songs) 5PM - 6:30PM Chad Oulds (Popular Local Performer)
7PM - 8:30PM Heartless Saints (Popular Blues Band)
9PM - 10:45PM The Chasers (Playing a Great Mix of Country Music)
12PM - 7PM Busker Shows - Kobbler Jay and Bella Magic (West End Stage Area)
12PM-2PM Cherry Pit Spit Registration at Cherry Central 12PM - 2PM • Cherry Pit Spit Try Outs (Behind Cherry Central • Pit Spit Court)
SATURDAY,
JULY 20th
9AM-5PM • Cherry Fest and Amazing All Day Shopping 10AM - 6PM• World’s Finest Show Rides ($25 Ticket Ride All Day)
9AM-5PM Vendor Market and Food Trucks
8:30AM Pies Drop Off (At Cherry Central Stage)
9AM-11PM Pie Baking Contest (FIRST EVER!) (At Cherry Central Stage) 11AM-1PM Pie Eating Contest (At Cherry Central Stage) 1PM- 2:30PM Cherry Pit Spit Contest (Pit Spit Court)
9AM - 11AM Quattro Blue (West Stage)
11AM-1PM Kevin Brown (West Stage) 2PM-4PM Grupo Diamante (West Stage) 9AM-5PM Barry O Kids Show (Times and Locations TBD) 3 Shows 25-35 Minutes
Voice
No changes coming to King St.
A bid by Chatham Coun. Conor Allin to look at the possibilities of reconfiguring King Street in downtown Chatham was turned down by Chatham-Kent council last month.
The proposal, asking staff to consider angled parking and one-way traffic as part of C-K’s soon-to-be released transportation master plan, was defeated.
Allin said he brought the matter forward as a way to address parking problems in the downtown and bring more people to the core.
Councillors opposed to the idea voiced their concerns.
South Kent Coun. Anthony Ceccacci said he had not heard of any requests to make portions of King Street one way, noting there are many other pressing issues the municipality needs to ad-
dress.
In her comments, North Kent. Coun. Rhonda Jubenville said she spoke to downtown business owners in Chatham who informed her changing King Street could “hinder” business.
East Kent Coun. John Wright raised the issue that making King Street one way would make it difficult for ambulances and tow trucks to access the street.
Saying no to more turbines?
The Chatham Voice
A bid by North Kent Coun. Rhonda Jubenville to designate Chatham-Kent as an “unwilling host” for future wind farms was on the agenda at council earlier this week.
COLOUR
According to Jubenville, there have been “rumblings” of prospective turbine developers
CANADIAN!
We would like to thank all those who entered our Canada Day Colouring contest sponsored by Giant Tiger in Chatham. The lucky winner of the $50 Giant Tiger Gift Card is Naina Khatri of Chatham CongratulationsNaina!!!!
knocking on doors to inquire about putting up new turbines.
The councillor said no new builds should be considered in light of the fact the Ministry of Health has not responded to the municipality’s request for an all-hazard study on the dirty well water associated with existing wind farms in North Kent.
20,000 sunflowers
The Chatham Voice
Sunflowers are on display once again at Puddleford Tree Farm in East Kent.
To visit the farm and wander through 20,000 of the bright yellow plants, owners Gail and Matthew Whitney ask that you make a donation.
The Whitneys use the field as a fund-
raiser for the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent.
Entrance to the field area is $5 per car. Anyone wanting a flower to take home can pay just $1 and cut the flower of their choice.
The farm is located at 22896 Scane Rd. and is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Contributed image
Gail and Matthew Whitney have once again planted a field of sunflowers – 20,000 of them –and they are in bloom right now. To visit the Scane Road farm, the Whitneys ask for a donation for the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent.
The Chatham Voice
Dane
Austin
226-627-8580
Michelle Hetherington 519-401-2635*
Janet Ellen Mader* 226-881-0098
Krista Mall* 519-365-7462
June McDougall* 519-358-5199
Sylvia Moffat** 519-355-8189
Ghassan Najjar** 519-355-8668
Heather Najjar** 519-355-8666
Cass Opiela* 519-355-7804
Meg Palin* 226-627-2078
Chris Papple* 519-350-1402
Brian Peifer** 519-436-2669
Elizabeth Peifer* 519-436-8959
Patrick Pinsonneault** 519-360-0141
Chris Polley* 905-903-0505
Scott Poulin* 519-350-5320
Katherine Rankin** 226-542-2964
Home sales still sluggish in C-K
The Chatham Voice
The Chatham-Kent real estate market remains a tough one to figure out.
Despite a cut to interest rates, sales in June were down slightly from the same period a year ago.
But compared to May, it was a slim dip. In May, home sales were down 15 per cent, whereas June sales slipped by just 2.3 per cent.
Looking at the five-year average, June sales represent a drop of about seven per cent overall. Looking back over the past decade, they were down nearly 10 per cent from the average.
So far through the first six months of 2024, 621 units changed hands. That’s down about 13 sales from the same period in 2023.
Carrie Patrick, president of the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR), said the market, however, has left behind some positive hints.
“Sales activity was down marginally from the same time last year but is still showing signs of an improvement when looking at the monthly trend, which of late has been somewhat obscured by an almost constant sawtooth movement,” she said in a media release.
Homes continue to come on the market, she added, an encouraging sign.
“New listings are still holding strong and that’s a good sign that sellers have not become discouraged from the slower-than-anticipated reaction of buyers coming back into the market,” she said. “The Bank of Canada’s first rate cut didn’t seem to spur a large number of home seekers off the sidelines as there is still some uncertainty as to if or when the next rate cut will appear. For those keeping a close eye on their finances, rates may need to come down a bit more before they de-
cide to make a serious decision on an offer.”
The number of new listings was down by a mere four listings from June 2023. There were 244 new residential listings in June 2024.
New listings were three per cent above the five-
year average and 12.9 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of June.
The average price of homes sold in June 2024 was $425,245, a small reduction of 3.5 per cent from June 2023.
The more comprehen-
sive year-to-date average price was $423,416, edging down 0.9 per cent from the first six months of 2023.
Active residential listings numbered 473 units on the market at the end of June, an increase of almost 27 per cent from the end of June 2023.
Buy local, shop local, chamber prez urges
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
With Amazon’s Prime Days rolling through this week, the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce (CKCC) urges people to instead look at purchasing from local businesses.
“For every dollar you spend locally, it can have an economic impact from $7-$10,” said Rory Ring, president and CEO of the chamber. “Wages are paid to employees and they then go out and use them to buy goods and services within our communities. It echoes throughout our economy. It’s the pebble in the pond. It can be very significant.”
Buying from a corporate giant, however, is akin to throwing that same peb-
ble into an ocean. The ripple effects don’t reach Chatham-Kent.
Ring stressed small businesses remain the lifeblood of Chatham-Kent. And keeping that blood flowing helps us all.
“People often don’t consider the amount these entrepreneurs and small-business owners put back into the community. Whether it’s supporting a local dance troupe or a local hockey team or the hospice or the United Way,” he said.
“All those things a small business can do make a difference in the community. It all results in the dollars being spent within the community.”
For people who now prefer to shop online, Ring urges them to check
out local offerings.
“A lot of small businesses have done their own upgrades to conduct commers online as well,” he said.
And if they aren’t selling and delivering via online portals, many offer curbside pickup, something that began during the pandemic, but has continued for some businesses.
Ring added that local small businesses are still recovering from the revenue loss of the pandemic, face supply chain inventory challenges that have lingered post-pandemic, and now face inflation.
“We as a community can support them by seeking them out and taking in the products and services they offer,” he said.
$40K vandalism in Tecumseh Park
The Chatham Voice
Chatham-Kent investigators are the hunt for the culprits who vandalized the Tecumseh Park bandshell July 10. The incident, which caused approximately $40,000 damage, saw vandals cut open the fence around the HVAC unit and steal copper and piping.
According to Chatham-Kent police,
Look at these beauties
members of the Chatham Concert Band were on site until midnight that night following their weekly performance, meaning the crime must have occurred during the early morning hours of July 11.
Anyone with tips on this or other crimes is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1--800-222-TIPS (8477).
Located in one of the most prestigious areas of Chatham, this tastefully designed brick home exudes curb appeal and class. Situated on a beautifully landscaped lot that backs onto the water with stunning views, it offers tranquility and privacy. Your own outdoor oasis awaits in the backyard with an in-ground pool surrounded by stamped concrete with a backdrop of the river. The traditional family-oriented layout boasts a living room, plus a spacious family room with large patio doors with water views. Upstairs there are four generously sized bedrooms for everyone in the family. The primary suite features an ensuite, and juliet balcony overlooking the water! Huge basement that has the potential to add even more living space. This home has been cherished by the same family for 54 years.
Dave Noordhoff/Special to The Chatham Voice
Eighty teams of anglers took part in the recent Canadian Tire Mitchell’s Bay Open, enjoying two days of tournament fishing on Lake St. Clair.
SHOP Local
Fill that bus for campers’ sake
Nine excited YMCA summer campers are seen here with the YMCA’s Art Stirling; Dustin Ryan, owner of RDS Maintenance & General Contracting; and YMCA officials Timarra Milmine and Kaitlin Brotzel. They gathered to celebrate RDS’s donation of $5,000 towards the Y’s campaign to help send kids to YMCA camps.
St. Andrew’s announces its 2024-25 season
The Chatham Voice
The St. Andrew’s Performing Arts Committee has unveiled its 2024-2025 season with the theme Pure Imagination.
This will be the 12th year of programs presented for the community to enjoy a variety of music and theatre that includes seven Saturdays at 7 concerts as well as the Spotlight Series that features another theatrical production as well as some exciting guest performances.
Once again, Devon Hansen, St. Andrew’s director of music, has created a series of concerts designed to delight audiences that over the past eleven years has often filled the sanctuary to capacity.
He will perform, often as accompanist, for many of the concerts.
The Spotlight Series of three events includes a theatrical production of Lucky Stiff: The Musical, an offbeat mystery directed by Christian Baribeau and performed by local actors and musicians.
Mark Payne returns by popular request after last year’s concert to dazzle the audience with his talent and humour.
The third concert in the Spotlight Series features the Baddest Big Band from London, Ont., that brings together some of the finest jazz musicians in that area. Spotlight Series events require tickets ($30 per concert or $75 for all three concerts), available from the church office or on-
line at standrewschatham. org/events.
Tickets for St. Andrew’s annual Christmas concert at the Capitol Theatre are on sale now at the CK Tickets box at the Cultural Centre (75 William St. N.) for $30. Children 12 and under are free.
The Dec. 7 concert will feature St. Andrew’s Concert Choir, Chatham-Kent Chamber Orchestra, the Bel Canto Children’s Choir and musicians from the community. The program promises an evening of festive melodies and cherished carols.
The Saturdays at 7 concert series opens with An Evening of Alan Menken that features music from Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and others.
Continued on page 14
The Chatham Voice
Dustin Ryan of RDS Maintenance put $5,000 into the bus to kick start the YMCA of Southwestern Ontario’s Fill the Bus CAMPaign.
The campaign, which has a goal of $200,000 to send 1,000 kids to camp across the region, began June 10.
Here in Chatham-Kent, the YMCA is aiming to send 70 of those kids –raising $14,000 total. Thanks to RDS and others, 48 of those 70 children are covered so far.
“Camp is an educational and magical experience. We believe that spending time at camp builds confidence and independence that campers will take with them through to adulthood,” Andrew
Lockie, CEO, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario, said in a media release. “We appreciate that the cost of camp is more challenging for some, and our Fill the Bus campaign raises funds to ensure every child can attend camp, regardless of their financial circumstances.”
Children and youth who attend camp report increased environmental awareness, positive attitudes towards physical activity, emotional intelligence, personal development, and self-confidence.
Many children are spending more than seven hours a day in front of a screen, and camp gives kids access to healthy activities that connect them to others and the joy of life beyond the screen.
To find out more about Fill the Bus, visit ymcaswo.ca.
Contributed image
New doc residents at CKHA
The Chatham Voice
Three new family medicine doctors have joined the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance for training.
Doctors Alexandra Ferrara, Pooria Ghadiri and Jared Tschirhart are doctors in residence at the alliance. They will begin their post-graduate training at CKHA this summer.
The residents will gain experience by working with local physicians and
CKHA’s health-care team to provide support and direction as they complete the clinical portion of their medical training.
“Chatham-Kent offers a vibrant rural community with a wide range of family medicine opportunities,” said Dr. Zeke Milkovic, acting chief of staff at CKHA, in a media release. “The residents will have the opportunity to work and train alongside highly skilled physi-
cians and will gain experience in many aspects of practicing medicine. I am confident that they will make significant contributions to the health and well-being of the community during their time at CKHA.”
Ferrara, born and raised in Chatham, said she is excited to return to her hometown to serve her community. She obtained a Bachelor of Science (BSc) at Western University, fol-
lowed by a Master of Public Health at Brock University, and studied Medicine at the University of Limerick in Ireland.
Her areas of interest include emergency and oncology medicine, longterm care, and procedural work such as small lesion clinics.
“I was born and raised in Chatham, and I am looking forward to coming home and serving my community,” Ferrara said.
Ghadiri earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Shiraz University and has since lived in various Canadian cities including Saskatoon, Vancouver, and Montreal. He holds a Master of Science in Medicine (MSc) in Family Medicine from McGill University, where he authored a thesis on the use of Artificial Intelligence to aid adolescents with mental health problems.
His interests include in-
ternal medicine, pediatrics, and OB/GYN.
“It’s wonderful to feel so welcomed as I prepare for this new journey in Chatham-Kent” Ghadiri said. Tschirhart completed his undergraduate and Master’s degrees at Queen’s University before earning his Medical Degree at Western University. His medical interests include emergency medicine, anesthesia, and intensive care unit (ICU).
Performances include Saturdays at 7 concerts
Continued from page 13 Nessun Dorma celebrates the centennial of Puccini, a monumental figure in operatic history.
Stand By Me will be presented in the warm glow of candlelight to honour Black History Month. Charlie Chaplin in “The Gold Rush” with live pipe-organ accompani-
ment, will bring that silent movie to life.
The Man in the Mirror concert in April will feature the music program at St. Andrew’s that includes
the Concert Choir and the Chatham-Kent Chamber Orchestra.
As the grand finale of the season the Over the Rainbow concert will present
Hollywood’s greatest movie music.
Tickets are not required for Saturdays at 7 concerts but donations (suggested $20 per person) are accepted at the door and will go towards the music program at St. Andrew’s. All are welcome. For further info refer to standrewschatham.org/music.
Did you know?
According to WorldPopulationReview, the average funeral cost as of May 2023 was $7,630. Funeral costs are affected by a host of variables, including location, so the services may come in below, at or above that median depending on where the ceremony is being held. It can be easy to overlook planning for such a large expense, and many people may think their funeral costs will be covered by their life insurance policies. However, that isn’t always the case and certain complications can arise. The funeral planning information guide Funeral Basics states that sometimes insurance policies become invalid if payments have not been made. Policies may have liens on them, or some named beneficiaries may no longer be alive. This can stall the process as issues are worked through. In addition, it can sometimes take between six and eight weeks for beneficiaries to receive
life insurance policy payouts. Since many funerals take place within a week of a person’s death, it’s unlikely that surviving family members will be able to finance funerals with life insurance payouts. In addition, some policies may not be assignable, which means the benefits cannot be assigned to go to a third party who will file the claim for you (i.e., the funeral home or an assignment company with which the funeral home partners). It’s important to determine if an existing policy is assignable and to take appropriate measures if it is not. Individuals may want to consider burial insurance or preneed funeral insurance. Another option is to use preplanning services, which allow people to prepay for funeral expenses and make planning decisions regarding the services and burial so that family members will not be tasked with financing and/or planning a funeral during a difficult time in their lives.
Funeral Preplanning
The death of a loved is difficult to confront. Emotions are elevated and grief is prominent which can make it hard to make important decisions. Quite often several people need to come together to make decisions necessary for a family member’s funeral arrangements. Surviving family members responsible for planning a funeral may be asked to contribute financially if other arrangements have not already been made, which can exacerbate stressful feelings during an already difficult time. Funeral pre-planning is a good way for individuals to make a difficult time a little more manageable for their survivors. Funeral homes frequently work hand-in-hand with individuals and families to customize
pre-planning packages and facilitate the process. Here’s a rundown of pre-planning as individuals consider their options.
Explore your options
Pre-planning a funeral enables people to consider all of the options without the time constraints of making funeral arrangements directly after the passing of a loved one. A knowledgeable staff member at a funeral home, can explain the offerings and answer any questions.
Straightforward process
Unless an individual has planned a funeral in the past, there could be a lot of unknowns. Funeral homes handle these events every day and can guide families through the intricacies of the process with ease. Most have pre-planning kits that include all of the essentials of the process, such as choosing caskets, deciding on prayer cards and designing floral arrangements. Avoid confrontations
Working directly with a professional also helps alleviate the burden on family members, who may not agree
on arrangements or concur on what they believe would be a loved one’s final wishes. When pre-planning a funeral, individuals can spell out in their own words exactly what they desire and even finance the funeral in advance.
Establish a payment plan
A funeral home staff member can go over the various ways to fund funeral expenses, and may work out a payment schedule to spread out the expense over a period of time. He or she also may explain how funeral prearrangement can be a way to “spend down” assets in a way that protects those monies from look-back periods when determining eligibility for certain assisted living or nursing facilities should that be required in the future.
Works with religious officials
Very often a funeral home is a conduit that facilitates all facets of the funeral process. They may reach out to a preferred house of worship to organize a mass or other religious service, and will also contact the cemetery and work with them to secure a plot and deed. This also alleviates pressure down the line on grieving family members who need time to mourn.
Pre-planning a funeral merits consideration. Working with a trusted funeral home removes much of the pressure during such difficult times.
forPeaceofMind
Services offered by funeral homes
The period surrounding the death of a loved one can be difficult to navigate. Mourning a recently deceased family member or friend can dominate individuals’ thoughts, compromising their ability to devote much time and energy to anything else.
Some people decide to pre-plan their funerals in an effort to ensure their wishes are honored upon their death. Pre-planning also can afford survivors more time to grieve and ensure they won’t need to make hard decisions at a difficult time in their lives. When a deceased individual makes no such plans, family members are tasked with planning the funeral, a process that can be simplified with the help of experienced staff at a nearby funeral home. Funeral homes offer an array of services that can ensure ceremonies honor the life of the deceased and take some of the pressure off that person’s surviving family members.
• Honor the deceased: No two people are the same, so there’s no one-sizefits-all template for a funeral service. Funeral home staff recognize that and can often help families identify unique traits about the deceased that can be conveyed during the ceremony. Whether it’s playing a favorite song or choosing an especially meaningful passage from a religious text or a favorite book, funeral home staff will work with families to personalize the ceremony as much as loved ones desire.
• Establish the desired ambiance: Funerals tend to be somber, but they also can be celebratory. Funeral home
staff can help families establish the desired tone of the service by showcasing how the viewing space can be decorated and prepared for visitations.
• Organize the ceremony: Funeral home staff also can help grieving families organize the ceremony, including contacting clergy to preside over the service. Funeral staff also may reach out to extended family members who immediate family may want to perform certain functions in the ceremony, such as reading passages and serving as pallbearers. Funeral directors also may request military honors for the ceremony if the deceased is a veteran.
• Burial details: If the deceased is being buried, funeral staff can contact local cemetery officials and get the details on the purchase of a plot if no plot has been purchased previously. Funeral staff also can help families choose a casket and burial liner and organize additional details that grieving relatives may know little about. If the deceased is being cremated, funeral home staff can coordinate the cremation process and help family members choose an appropriate urn.
Funeral homes provide an array of invaluable services to families mourning the loss of a loved one.
So often when faced with the deep pain of grief, we feel that no one really understands. No one can feel exactly as we feel, for everyone goes through the grieving process in their own way, and in their own time. That does not mean however that we must walk the journey alone. We can find comfort in someone walking beside us, ready to listen and understand the times when we do not have words to explain how we feel. At the Alexander & Houle Funeral Home, we will guide you through the journey and be by your side every step of the way.
the difference caring makes
Phone: 519.352.2710
Email: info@alexanderfuneralhome.ca
Address: 245 Wellington Street West, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 1J9
Demolished
Contributed image
Demolition work is now complete along Erie Street North and Talbot Road East in Wheatley. Nine buildings have been levelled as part of the demolition. The fence surrounding the properties will be moved back and sidewalk access and street parking will be available again.
Barnyard BBQ returns July 26-28
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
The aromas emanating from Red Barn Brewing’s backyard will be tantalizing come July 27 and 28, as the second annual Barnyard BBQ competition takes place.
For patrons, the fun begins on the Friday, as local performer Chad Oulds takes to the stage for a pre-party event.
But on the Saturday, amateur grillers and smokers join the fun, cooking up a variety of options that will be judged.
Red Barn’s Denny Vervaet said everything gets going at noon on the Saturday. Along with the barbecue competition, bands will perform throughout the afternoon and evening.
Sunday delivers more food judging and more entertainment.
Vervaet said everything is bigger and better this year.
“This is the second year we’ve hosted this event, but it’s the first time it’s a twoday event,” he said. “And on site, the grillers will be cooking more courses than just ribs and chicken this year. There will be appetizers and desserts too.”
Unfortunately, that food is for the tastebuds of the judges only, but patrons will have numerous selections as well.
“Last year, what we heard from the public is that we didn’t offer the full barbecue experience for the guests,” Vervaet said. “This year, Dog Days Barbecue is going to be providing way more offer-
ings to be available for purchase by the public.”
Smash Burger food truck will also be on hand, as will Mega Cone Creamery for icecream enthusiasts.
Vervaet said expanding the event into two days for the barbecuers and three for the public just made sense.
“Last year, we just did it on the Saturday. It was so well attended. Everyone had such a good time,” he said.
On top of that, by going over multiple days, the competitors can showcase their skills at some longer smoking options such as brisket, which often cooks overnight.
Vervaet encourages people to bring their lawn chairs.
“We have lots of picnic tables, but it is going to be very well attended,” he said.
Steady flow of patients for new weekend care clinic
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
A new clinic offering medical care to folks who don’t have a primary health-care provider is off to a good start. That according to Dr. Briana Yee-Providence, physician
co-chair lead with the Chatham-Kent Ontario Health Team (CKOHT.)
Dubbed the “BridgeCare –Access to Primary Care Clinic,” the free service launched earlier this month with 40 patients attending. Located on the second floor of the medical building at 20 Emma St. in Chatham, the clinic is open for walk-ins, and no appointments are needed. However, there are a limited number of spots available each day.
“We’re pretty happy with that number,” the doctor said of the turnout, noting it’s been a “soft launch” for the clinic. A more formal announcement is expected in August.
It’s hoped that Chatham-Kent Ontario
Health Team project, funded by the Ministry Health, will help fill a dire need for primary health care. Currently, there are 2.5 million Ontario residents without a physician or nurse practitioner, including 25,000 residents in Chatham-Kent.
“Our interest is ensuring people get good care,” Yee-Providence explained, noting the clinic will also help alleviate pressure on hospital emergency rooms which should be reserved for life-threatening illness.
“The clinic benefits everyone,” she said.
Five local doctors are taking turns staffing the clinic, however Yee-Providence said the team is actively looking for other doctors to take part. The clinic is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday.
Red Barn Royale raises $15,000
The Chatham Voice
Royal LePage Peifer Realty recently held a successful fundraising event, the Red Barn Royale, to support the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre.
This event was organized in collaboration with the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation.
At Royal LePage brokers and staff “understand that a house is only a home if the people who live there feel safe,” officials said.
“With the generous backing of our realtors and community partners, the event featured live entertainment and food. Thanks to the enthusiastic participation of everyone involved, we are thrilled to announce that we raised $15,000,” officials added.
The funds will be dedicated to help replace the playground equipment at the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre, providing a safer and more enjoyable space for the children there.
Summer company students on the job
The first annual Summer Company Program student networking event took place recently at the Chatham-Kent Small Business Centre.
The event marked a milestone in fostering entrepreneurial spirit among young individuals, officials said. It provided a platform for students participating in the Summer Company program to connect, share their achievements, and discuss common challenges.
Mayor Darrin Canniff also stopped by for a visit and heard the stories of what inspired participants to become entrepreneurs.
The Summer Company program is designed to empower enterprising young people, aged 15 to 29, to start and run their own summer businesses.
Participants receive training, mentorship, and a grant of $3,000 to support their entrepreneurial journey.
“We are incredibly proud of the students and their accomplishments, said Economic Development officer Anthony Wilson in a media release. “This event not only celebrates the hard work of young entrepreneurs but speaks to the bright future of Chatham-Kent’s small business community.”
Applications for the 2025 program will open in spring of next year. More information on the program can be found at chatham-kent.ca/EconomicDevelopment/ programs/Pages/Summer-Company-.aspx
Bike for Hospice effort hits its mark
Jeff Thibert felt the burn, as he completed his 1,000 kilometres on his bicycle in under 75 hours as his Bike for Hospice fundraiser.
Results are still being tallied, and donors can visit the Chatham-Kent Hospice donation page.
Giving back Blenheim’s Randy Toulouse wants to give back to the Chatham-Kent Hospice.
His wive, Karen, recently lost her battle with cancer and spent her final days at the hospice.
Toulouse is so appreciative that he has decided to donate the proceeds of the sale of sweet corn on July 20 from his stand to the hospice.
He’s located on Chatham Street South, just south of Blenheim.
Contributed image
Participants in the Red Barn Royale are all smiles as they gathered to raise $15,000 for the Chatham-Kent Women’s Centre recently at Red Barn Brewing Co.
Contributed image
Students utilizing the Summer Company Program gathered and mingled with staff from the Chatham-Kent Small Business Centre recently, and visited with Mayor Darrin Canniff as well.
Community Events
Thursday, July 18, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
•Join us for a fun filled afternoon, Jam Session. Bring your instruments or singing voices from 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a $2 donation. From 4-7pm: Homemade Panzerotti plus menu available. Merlin Legion, 519-689-4884.
• The Chatham-Kent Quilters’ Guild meets the third Thursday of each month at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave W, Chatham. Doors open at 6:00 for socializing and shopping. The meeting starts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome to join us, but the fee for non-members will be $10 per meeting. Come and enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the other fun at our meeting. Our membership fee is $50 per year and this entitles you to our newsletter and all of our regular meetings free of charge. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www.ckquiltguild.com for more information.
Friday, July 19, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Roast Beef and potatoes or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519-351- 8733 or 519-351-5639. Everyone is welcome.
• Running Creek Ministry Hosting tent meetings with Pastor Rene McIntyre & Open Heaven Worship Team @ 7PM and Saturday, July 20 @ 3PM & 7PM. 29292 Running Creek, Wallaceburg ON. 519-328-5672. email:runningcreekministry@gmail.com.
• Join us for our delicious 5pc Perch or 3pc Merlickin Chicken or Combo (3pc Perch & 2pc Merlickin Chicken). Merlin Legion 519-689-4884.
Saturday, July 20, 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.
• Running Creek Ministry Hosting tent meetings with Pastor Rene McIntyre & Open Heaven Worship Team@ 3PM & 7PM. 29292 Running Creek, Wallaceburg ON. 519-328-5672. email:runningcreekministry@gmail.com.
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. There will be a meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 3:00pm–5:30pm. Entertainment by Southern Hospitality from 4:30-9:30. Come out and check out our menu. Everyone is welcome.
• Join us for our delicious Merlickin Chicken plus menu serving 4:30 to 8 pm Karaoke Bob 7 to 11 pm. Merlin Legion Br. 465. Call 519-689-4884 for details.
• Locally Unique Co 2nd annual Taste of Summer Vendor Market. Join us from 10am-3pm at the St. Clair College Chatham Healthplex. Shop from over 20 local vendors, get face painting from POPart from 11-3, and enjoy a delicious beverage from The Bay Grind Cafe! Free Admission.
Sunday, July 21, 2024:
• Vintage Car/Truck/Tractor/Motorcycle Show from 10 am – 3pm with registration $10 beginning at 9am. Kitchen open with breakfast sandwiches at 8:30. Lunch of hamburgers,hot dogs, fries + ice cream available as well. Meat draw – 50/50 – BBQ filled with booze – trophies &prizes. Live Music by The Marquis from 11-3pm. Free for the audience!! Don’t miss this fun event and support our veterans! Call Lori at 519-476-5870 to register or for any questions.
• Euchre tournament, $10/person or $20 2-person team, registration 12 noon, play at 1:00pm. Food and refreshments available for purchase, 642 Legion, 39 William St. N., for more info., call 519-351-8733.
Monday, July 22, 2024:
• St.Clair Estates Social Club Euchre 1pm. 9 Dunkirk Street, Chatham.
• Come and play the ancient Chinese game of Mahjong at the library. Chatham Branch’s Mahjong Club from 3:00pm to 4:45pm in the Chatham Branch Meeting Room. Take this opportunity to play Mahjong with family and friends while enjoying our air conditioning! Come learn the basics of Chinese Mahjong or join a group that already is well versed in the game. All playing levels welcome. Join us for some tiled fun! Need more information? contacting Ask CKPL: Phone: 519-354-2940 Text: 519-401-7174 Email: cklibrary@ chatham-kent.ca Facebook Chat: @ ckplibrary To find out more about programs and events at Chatham-Kent Public Library, visit www.ckpl.ca.
Tuesday, July 23, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The
kitchen is open to serve 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 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Wednesday, July 24, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Our daily special is Meat loaf Dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. Everyone is welcome.
Thursday, July 25, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.
• Join us for a fun filled afternoon, Jam Session. Bring your instruments or singing voices from 1-4:30pm. All are welcome to attend with a $2 donation. From 4-7pm: Homemade Panzerotti plus menu available. Merlin Legion, 519-689-4884.
Friday, July 26, 2024:
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Liver & Onions or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. On the Patio, you will be entertained by SoulEau – Mary Ann Patterson 7pm to 10pm. Everyone is welcome.
• A Summer Ghost Walk leaving from the Centennial Clock on the former Sears plaza will explore Chatham’s haunted downtown area on Friday, July 26th three times a night at 7pm, 7:30pm and 8pm if demand warrants. A special guest will reveal their personal experiences at one point in each walk. Tickets for Adults are $15 and Children $10 (12 and under) plus fees available at www.eventbrite.com We go rain or moonshine. Do you dare?
Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Call – leave 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
2. American island state
3. Inflexibly entrenched
4. “Pollock” actor Harris
5. Foolish person
6. Follows a particular Chairman
7. Choose
8. Sunrooms
9. One hundred grams (abbr.)
CLUES ACROSS
1. Letter of the Greek alphabet
4. Cause to become entangled
10. Swiss river
11. Conversation
12. “Magnum” was one
14. Small integer
15. Christmas
16. Of a specific mountain region
18. Burrowing bugs
22. Of a symbol worthy of veneration
23. A type of syndrome 24. Cephalopod mollusks
26. Metric ton 27. Ornamental box 28. As quickly as can be done
30. “Hoop Dreams” subject Arthur
31. Old TV part
34. Extinct flightless birds
36. Former CIA
37. Successor
39. Archaic form of you
40. Within
41. Danny Hurley’s alma mater
42. Not sacred or biblical
48. Written law
50. Popular hairstyle
51. Congressman
52. Type of font
53. A predetermined period in office
54. Pouch
55. Hormone that stimulates ovulation (abbr.)
56. One from a particular Asian region
58. One’s sense of self-esteem
59. Headgear used to control a horse
60. The habitat of wild animals
CLUES DOWN
1. A right conferred through legal means
12. A symptom of some physical hurt or disorder
13. South American hummingbird
17. “Girl Chopping Onions” painter
19. Wild dog
20. Units of land
21. Footwear
25. Possessing a constant temperature
29. Hormone that promotes water retention (abbr.)
31. Popular game
32. Pension (German)
33. Giant of industry
35. Inferred
38. One who revolves
41. Kept possession of
43. Loss of electricity
44. Stoppered bottle
45. Everything
46. First to walk on the moon
47. Engrave
49. Female organs
56. Equal to 1,024 bytes (abbr.)
57. Northeast Puzzle answers found on page 22
OBITUARIES
Support for Lighthouse Foundation
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Number three is in the books.
A full lineup of teams and players of all ages were to convene in Dresden on the weekend for the third annual Rally at the Barn pickleball tournament.
NHL defenseman T.J. Brodie and wife Amber are the event organizers. Brodie said more than 150 people were to take part at the Ken Houston Memorial Agricultural Centre.
“It’s nice to see young kids get involved with pickleball. It’s a sport everyone can go out and play,” he said. “The whole family can enjoy it together.”
Participants played in men’s, women’s and mixed classes and Sunday featured a youth clinic.
The event is a fundraiser for the Brodies’ charity The Lighthouse Foundation (TLF), which raises funds in support of cystic fibrosis
(CF) and multiple sclerosis (MS). Amber, in 2015, was diagnosed with MS, and one of T.J.’s cousins has battled CF for much of his life.
It also coincides with the annual release of The Rally amber lager from Sons of Kent, another fundraising avenue for TLF.
Doug Hunter, one of the owners of Sons of Kent, said the Brodies approached the brewery three years ago for support.
“They asked us to make a
beer. It went over super well and is for a great cause,” he said. “We like to support charitable causes, and this was pretty close to home with T.J. and Amber.”
The beer is available on tap and in cans. All proceeds go to TLF.
T.J. said the support from Sons of Kent has been greatly appreciated.
“Doug has been awesome since we started this. He’s helped us every step of the way,” he said.
John Petrasko
83, Thursday, July 4, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Carl Coates
67, Sunday, July 7, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Doris Jaeger 83, Sunday, July 7, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Margaret Cameron Friday, July 5, 2024
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Trudy Dianne VanEsse 64, Monday, July 8, 2024
Badder Funeral Home
Mona McGuigan 99, Sunday, July 7, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Agnes Blain 98, Thursday, July 4, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Betty Traylor 89, Tuesday, July 9, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Jean Morgan 101, Saturday, July 6, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Gary O’Rourke
73, Monday, July 8, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Devon Morgan 25, Wednesday, July 3, 2024 Life Transitions
Norman Hornbostel 77, Thursday, July 4, 2024 Life Transitions
Arthur Slater 91, Sunday, July 7, 2024 Life Transitions
Catherine Lauzon (Dagenais) Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Life Transitions
Jessica Stoehr 30, Monday, June 8, 2024 Blenheim Funeral Home
Sr. May O’Hanlon Monday, July 8, 2024 Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Debbie Cottel 64, Monday, July 8, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Anna Krahn 67, Wednesday, July 10, 2024 Kendrick Funeral Home
Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice
From left, Amber Brodie, Sons of Kent’s Doug Hunter, and T.J. Brodie of the Chicago Blackhawks celebrate the release of The Rally amber lager. Proceeds of sales of the beer go to the Brodie’s Lighthouse Foundation, which supports cystic fibrosis and multiple sclerosis research.
This beautiful lady is 101 July 18, 2024
Angela Svehla
To Our Mother Barbara (Babs) Birkby 1930 - 1993
Debbie Cotell
Happy Birthday from your children
Janet in Heaven (Jerry), grandchildren, great grandchildren & great-great grandchildren.
furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-727-8894.
Wanted: Scrap air
Always so good, unselfish and kind, Few on this earth her equal we find. Honourable and upright in all her ways, Loyal and true to the end of her days. You are not forgotten, dear mother. You were taken to early, but your memory lives on. As we age we realize what a profund affect you had on us all.
Loveyou,Missyou, David,Susan,Allan,Eileen&John.
Peacefully with her family at Copper Terrace Long Term Care Facility, on Wednesday July 10, 2024, Debra “Debbie” Marie Cotell, age 64, of Chatham. Born in Chatham in 1960, daughter of the late Anna Marie (Barrette) and Evariste Houle. She will be dearly missed by her sister Mary Houle, many cousins and friends. Special thanks and appreciation to Dr. Tomen and the staff at Copper Terrace, Terri and staff at the ACT Team, Amy and staff at Lacroix and Baxter group homes for helping Mary see Debbie and Laila and the staff at Serenity House. A Graveside Service will be held on Monday, July 22, 2024 at 10am in Maple Leaf Cemetery. Donations to the Canadian Mental Health Association or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home, 156 William St. S. Chatham (519-352-5120).
Kimpe: Dorothy “Jean” (née Maynard)
3 Offices Available for Rent: all utilities included, central air. Nice & clean. Ready to move in. 991 Richmond St, Franklin Square. 519-380-5438. Office Space
For Sale Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-togo. Many colours available. $40. 519-354-3411
chathamvoice.com
Steel Trailer, tandem wheels, box 5 1/2ft x 8ft. Tires and trailer in excellent condition; 8ft aluminum step ladder; 16ft aluminum extension ladder. In Chatham 519-784-7004.
Summer Camp ages 7 and up and ages 4-6 Little Britches. Monday to Friday 9am-4pm. 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 519-354-7517.
July
23, 2016
Jules Foulon
In memory of a wonderful Husband, Father, Grandfather and friend.
“Years go by”
A resident of Chatham, Jean Kimpe passed away at the Meadow Park Nursing Home on July 3, 2024 at the age of 92. Born in Port Huron, Jean was the daughter of the late Calvin and Edith (née Beaudin) Maynard. Beloved wife of 41 years to the late Charles Kimpe (2016). Dear mother to Scott Mercer (Patricia) and Cathy Earle (Al). Proud grandmother to Ron Atkinson, Charlie Atkinson, Katie Pelkey and Gregory Mercer; great-grandmother to Michael Gavin and Dorian Atkinson, Hunter Pelkey, Carson Atkinson and Keatin McLain. Predeceased by her sisters Ella Doughty (Jim), Mabel Legue (Ed), Shirley Phaneuf (Francis); brothers George Maynard (Marg), Donald Maynard (Marg), Ken Maynard and Tom Maynard (Janet); and her son-in-law Wayne. Jean will also be dearly missed by many nieces and nephews. Private family arrangements to take place. Interment to follow at Maple Leaf C emetery, Chatham. Donations made in memory of Jean to the CK Rescue and Big Fix Grassroots Cat Rescue would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com.
You are always in our thoughts. ‘til we meet again dear Jules
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.
McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.
Sell your unwanted items in the classifieds! Starting at only $6 plus tax! 519-397-2020.
Week of July 21 - 27th, 2024
ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, show off your true colors and let others see who you are and what makes you tick. You are given the spotlight right now to shine and get noticed even more.
TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21
The full equation may not be revealed this week until you start to unravel some of the pieces, Taurus. You will need to remain patient as the process plays out.
GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21
Gemini, you are discovering more people you can trust and who have your best interests at heart. Continue to surround yourself with these winning individuals.
CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22
Right now you have to take a leap of faith if you really want to grow, Cancer. Take a trip somewhere you’ve never visited, learn a new language, or make an effort to meet new people.
LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, although you might want to keep your aspirations to yourself, it is helpful if you run your ideas past a few trusted people to see if their enthusiasm mirrors your own.
VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you can certainly proceed according to logic, but you might be better off trusting your gut for the time being. It rarely steers you wrong with the bigger things in life.
LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, people from all corners will come together to help you out, just when you need it most. Now you will get to realize those people who truly support you.
SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you may have been sitting on certain information for a while and are not sure when you will reveal it. You’ll know the right time when it comes around.
SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21
Sagittarius, even if your love life has been a little lackluster, you can rest assured that things will be flowing anew very soon. It’s time to rekindle those feelings of love and affection.
CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20
Now isn’t a good time to think you can fake your emotions, Capricorn. Others will see right through you and read your mind quite easily. It’s better to be honest and open.
AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18
Someone you haven’t spoken to in a while might be on your mind, Aquarius. This might be the right time to bridge the gap and open lines of communication.
PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, it can be difficult to delegate to others and not handle everything yourself. But you have to trust in others and support them if you want them to learn and grow.
