The Chatham Voice, Sept. 26, 2024 by Chatham Voice

Fire victims find temporary home

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

temporary residence for some of the folks displaced by the fire at 99 McNaughton Ave. in Chatham has been set up in Dresden.

Cremations

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 . . .

According to a municipal media release, Chatham-Kent has worked out a deal with the new owners of Park Street Place to house residents at the former seniors’ retirement home.

The time-limited agreement is intended to provide shelter for up to 50 people while restoration work on the geared-toincome Chatham struc-

ture heavily damaged by arson Aug. 25 continues.

The release states the use of Park Street Place is strictly temporary and there are no plans to convert it into a permanent shelter in the future.

C-K’s director of housing services Josh Myers said the Dresden housing option provides stability in an uncertain time.

“The impact of the fire at 99 McNaughton and the challenges associated with it cannot be understated,” Myers told The Voice following the announcement, noting work is ongoing to repair the damage and get people back to their homes as

quickly as possible.

“We truly appreciate that this has not been easy on the community and that the coming months will likely present new challenges,” he said. “This partnership is certainly a good news story and it has presented a viable option that previously was not thought possible.”

The fire displaced more than 100 people from the 120-unit structure. To date, the municipality has assisted 35 tenants with alternate housing options, while 25 tenants found their own shelter.

Continued on page 4

Community hub back at council Oct. 21

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

A big decision is looming for Chatham-Kent council Oct. 21.

That’s the date elected officials will vote on whether to proceed with the Chatham-Kent Community Hub project in downtown Chatham.

If approved, the development would see the relocation of the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre, the Chatham branch of the public library and the Chatham-Kent Museum to the former Sears building.

However, according to a municipal media release, the Oct. 21 decision is “not the final decision point, but rather a decision to determine if the project will continue into

phase three, which, if approved, entails finalization of the designs, tendering of costs, construction procurement and, pending final approval, the commencement of construction.”

Further council decision points are planned for both the first and second quarters of 2025, the release said.

Extensive community feedback from the public will also be considered. This includes public input from three public information sessions attended by more than 300 residents and two online surveys on the Let’s Talk platform that generated more than 1,000 responses.

Three stakeholder engagement meetings were held as well to garner input. The stakeholder engagement group includes representatives from the library board,

as well as advisory committees for accessibility, municipal museums, and the Thames Art Gallery.

Several one-on-one meetings with local committees and boards were held throughout the process.

To further ensure public awareness and facilitate transparency, the municipal clerk’s office will release a full report on the matter two weeks prior to the Oct. 21 meeting to ensure time for public review.

In place of deputations, as per the procedural bylaw, the municipality is encouraging residents to email letters of opinion to council@ chatham-kent.ca for review prior to the meeting.

The full report, with links to all related materials, will appear on the Let’s Talk CK page Oct 7.

New Canadians celebrate inclusivity

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

“For me, becoming a Canadian citizen means having a home instead of a tent, feeling safe instead of fear, being a Canadian citizen instead of a Syrian refugee. Here, I have rights and responsibilities, the right to life, freedom and peace. Everyone looked at me as a single mother, but I was an army for myself and my children. They are now here in their home, Canada, and I am happy for them. Thank you, Canada.”

Those were the emotional words of Midia Suliaman, one of 48 people to become Canadian citizens at a citizenship ceremony held at the Capitol Theatre in Chatham on Sept. 17.

Suliaman, who fled the war in Syria with her two children in tow, spent eight years in a refugee camp in Iraq before coming to Canada. Four years ago, she made her way to Southwestern Ontario and now calls Windsor home. She was reunited with her son Ibrahim Ezouli here, who at age 15, was moved on from Iraq to Austria. They didn’t see each other for six years but with the help of immigration officials the family came together once again.

Today, Suliaman, 45, her daughter Lilav Ezouli, 19, and Ibrahim, now 26, are living and thriving in their new home.

Surrounded by smiling friends, the trio was among those from 18 countries who

took the oath. Against a backdrop of the Maple Leaf blowing in the wind, the new Canadians beamed as they made their way to the stage to accept the document cementing them as Canadian citizens.

The group then sang O’ Canada and heard a video message from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcoming them as “equals.”

Wassana and Jack Khanraksa are two Chatham-Kent residents who took the oath.

The mother and son moved to Erieau from Thailand in 2016 and eight years later they are now Canadians.

“I’m so excited and I feel wonderful,” said Wassana, now married to long-time C-K resident John Ducedre.

Jack, who is an electrical engineering technician student at St. Clair College, said taking the oath has made him

“feel a part of Canada.

“Now I can travel anywhere,” he said.

Tracy Callaghan, executive director of Adult Language and Learning, commended Canada’s newest citizens for their efforts.

“Most people do not choose their citizenship but are instead born into it,” Callaghan told the gathering. “You have all made a choice to become Canadian citizens through hard work and sacrifice. Welcome to Chatham-Kent, welcome to Canada, and remember, the best is yet to come.”

Callaghan, who also chairs the Local Immigration Partnership, said that in 2016, Chatham-Kent was des-

mother and son, who live in Erieau, were among 48 people

ignated as Canada’s first “welcoming community” by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

“This recognition celebrates our community’s commitment to inclusivity and to our appreciation for the cultural mosaic of Chatham-Kent and Canada,” Callaghan explained.

Canada’s truth and reconciliation journey with its First Nations people was also shared with the new citizens. Along with a video, the crowd heard words from Walpole Island First Nation band member Allen Deleary, who works as Caldwell First Nation’s chief administrator.

“It is with open arms that I welcome you to the territories of our people,” Deleary said. “It is with love and kindness that we welcome you here. We are all the collective people of this earth, of this creation.”

Deleary urged the group to “take the time” to learn the history of Turtle Island.

“Each of you as newcomers, you certainly know where you come from,” he said. “And you know where you’re at and where you’re going.”

Contributed image

Jack and Wassana Khanraksa, second and third from right, pose with dignitaries after officially becoming Canadian citizens at a citizenship ceremony Sept. 17 at the Capitol Theatre. The

who took the oath.

99 McNaughton victims rehomed in Dresden

Continued from page 2

As well, a total of 22 were assisted with temporary placements in retirement homes, seven were assisted with short-term options in the private market and six accepted transfers to other municipally owned units

A woman has been charged with arson in connection to the blaze and the matter is still before the courts.

Police continue to search for a man they believe may also be responsible.

Rehabilitating 99 McNaughton may take months and an exact timeline is uncertain, officials said. Currently, there is no power in the building and significant work is

required on safety systems, including fire alarms and hot water. The mechanical room and other sections of the building were severely impacted.

The municipality has led a co-ordinated response to the fire. The Canadian Red Cross was brought in to establish an emergency evacuation centre at the former St. Agnes School. As well, the C-K community has overwhelmingly stepped up with donations.

Transportation assistance will be arranged for all those heading to Dresden.

Park Street Place became vacant in 2023 after the Retirement Homes Regulatory Authority pulled the license for the Dresden facility.

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Chatham Voice file photo

Many victims of the August fire at 99 McNaughton Ave. in Chatham will be temporarily lodged at Park Street Place in Dresden.

Connecting the dots … and the tap

From California to Minden, with a Chatham twist

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

From California to Minden, by way of Sons of Kent Brewing in Chatham … and eventually all the way to Las Vegas.

That is the route of a mobile bar that will be used at a wedding and showcased at an industry show in Vegas in October.

The bar is a Franken-Jeep, created by Fred Willams, an automotive journalist and forever off-road gearhead. Williams, a California native, said he obtained the cab from a military surplus vehicle, keeping the engine and transmission from that truck, and merging it with a new chassis. Atop the back end he built his own truck bed, complete with hinged wooden sides that drop for easy fullbed access.

And that’s needed when you want to serve cold beer out of the back.

Perched in the truck bed

is an oak barrel that once housed bourbon and later Sons of Kent’s Mammoth Imperial Stout. Now, it’s hinged, allowing easy access to slip a keg inside. Out the other side is a beer tap. Yes, it is a kegerator. And it will be serving Sons of Kent products in Central Ontario at the Minden Off-Road Park.

The Sons also sent up a handful of additional branded oak casks to serve as beverage tables.

Adding to the geographical anomaly of this story is the fact Williams built the truck to be showcased at his friend’s wedding. That friend, Tony Caravello, is a Belle River native, who happens to love Sons of Kent beer, according to brewery co-owner Doug Hunter.

In summation, the truck was built by a man from California for a man from Belle River, for a wedding in Minden, which will serve beer from Chatham.

Oh, and we can’t forget the Las Vegas connection. Williams said his creation will be on display at SEMA 2024, an automotive performance parts trade show Nov. 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, which will see an estimated 140,000 people attend.

Williams looks at the project in a matter-of-fact manner.

“I got this cab and we came up with a plan and we built the thing in 34 days,” he said.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Doug Hunter of Sons of Kent and Fred Williams, builder of this mobile bar for a buddy’s wedding, take a break while loading barrels and a kegerator at the Chatham brewery.

Opinion

Too pricey

In an article in this week’s Chatham Voice, on page 14 to be exact, reporter Pam Wright details how Chatham-Kent council greenlit putting an asphalt doughnut in place at the intersection of Merlin Road and Queen’s Line.

It’s a dangerous intersection where lives have been lost. Something needs to be done.

But, as we have questioned in this space in the past, is a roundabout the right thing to install?

Now, with an updated price tag of $6.5 million, we stress, again, it is not. First off, this is not Europe; this is Canada. Drivers are quite unfamiliar with how roundabouts function. There will be collisions along this stretch of road as a result of the installation of the roundabout. Granted, they will likely be at slower speeds than what has transpired in the past. As for price point, this was initially to be a $2.1-million project. A price quoted in 2021. But we all know how slowly things are done at the government level. Where a private-sector project might take months, a government one takes years.

And now, thanks to inflation and the decision to rehabilitate a nearby bridge, the price tag is more than

three times higher. At a time where Chatham-Kent ratepayers are facing disturbing tax increases, is shelling out $6.5 million the wisest course of action here?

You cannot put a price on lives saved, but perhaps there are more affordable options.

There are flashing red lights atop standard-sized stop signs on Merlin Road on either side of the intersection currently.

That’s it.

With the plan to slow traffic to 60 km/h at the intersection from 90 km/h on Queen’s Line, how about we beef up the signage? Add a flashing yellow light in each direction over Queen’s Line. Larger stop signs on Merlin Road would be smart as well, along with speed reductions heading to the intersection.

So, bigger and additional signage, as well as additional lighting.

We think that will help make the intersection safer, and will cost a heck of a lot less than $6.5 million.

It’s not a perfect fix, but it’s an affordable improvement. And that’s what council must consider with potential tax increases approaching double digits looming.

Bring back the issue. Reconsider.

Our letters to the editor policy

The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@ chathamvoice.com (use “Letter” in the subject line).

You can also drop them off or mail

them to us at The Chatham Voice, 71 Sass Rd., Unit 4, Chatham, Ont, N7M 5J4.

The Chatham Voice reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for brevity and clarity. All letters need to be signed.

Chatham Voice advertising policy

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: We would like to sincerely thank and give our appreciation to Chatham-Kent Fire & Rescue and the Enbridge Gas employee for their professional assistance recently.

One evening our two carbon monoxide detectors sounded their alarms, which prompted a 911 call. The calm ac-

tions of the firemen and the Enbridge Gas employee soon pinpointed two gas appliances leaking over 10 times the allowable limit, in other words, “slowly killing us.”

We urge everyone, whether you rent or own, to have at least one smoke detector and if you have natural gas to also have a carbon monoxide detector on each floor of your home. Call the fire service (not 911) if you’re not sure if you have adequate monitors.

Pierre Deveau Chatham

Editor: Chatham has a great community, and as time moves forward, our little town is getting better and better even as it confronts varying social and diverse challenges.

And I’m sure we’re not the only town in Canada facing many similar issues. But I believe that we are unique, not only because of our wonderful cultural diversity but also

because of the passion of the people who want to make it even better, as exemplified by the focus group of five dynamic local business people who want to improve the downtown core with the one hundred KING project.

As long-time residents of Chatham, they obviously have a vested

interest in making it better, not only for the progression and growth of their own respective businesses, but I also believe, optimistically, that it’s to leave a lasting legacy of their life-long commitment and contribution to this fair city.

Continued on page 7

OPINION

Downtown improvements a good thing

Continued from page 6

I sincerely hope that these astute business people do not despair under the barrage of negative opinions by the usual groupings of naysayers or by the insurmountable obstacles presented by city bureaucracy.

At the same time, I want to address the other two elephants in the room. Though very different in nature, it nevertheless still focuses on the core issue of who we are, and what is the message we want to promote?

The proposed plan for our downtown is a marvelous one and very progressive, and I’m all for it.

The recent art on the walls around town is an

even better move forward.

We have many empty buildings around town that could also be enhanced with these art displays. This could then be an initiative to make Chatham art-centric, with a focus on tourist promotion of “Chatham, the Outdoor Walk-ABout Gallery City” by local talents. Some of the many artists in this region would, of course, love to have had the opportunity to display their art. I’m not simplifying anything since there is a lot of co-ordination involved, and getting this all done and the completed artwork took time and effort by the artists themselves, some from one to two weeks to finish, not to mention the

physical effort to have them actually completed. We can enhance this exercise by promoting more art exhibitions by making it easier for local talented artists to showcase their art, such as by enhancing places to exhibit, helping with more advertising and promotion, and using more user-friendly locations such as the Downtown Chatham Centre or inside empty buildings or unusual and surprising locations and showings. The current available art spaces are too small and don’t allow these local art pieces to be highlighted, as opposed to being crowded like inventory in a grocery store.

Art needs space, and spaces need art to shine.

And now the real elephant in the room. With growing optimism, we see the creative side of talented people and the huge sums of money to be spent on them. Ironically, right across the river live the displaced, the homeless, and the unwanted. I believe we need to prioritize our goals first and foremost, not just for the few but for all citizens.

Addressing the tent community in Rotary Park is what will distinguish Chatham-Kent as a truly culturally progressive city. Discarding this grouping into a hidden corner of our region, like shoveling the dust under the carpet, is not the answer. I believe a concerted effort to find proper lodgings and amenities

for those less fortunate, as opposed to the many of us who are blessed with a better lifestyle, should be our priority.

I again stress the fact that putting them in an institutional-style building is not the answer. Could the creative designers and architects commandeered to re-design our fair city not also design a more civilized housing scenario? I believe it can be done.

I think it is possible to design a complex that not only overcomes this obstacle but

also improves Chatham’s landscape, defining us as a cultured city.

Regina Stockus Chatham

C-K’s top cop to deliver budget, not a PR firm

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Don’t expect to see the Chatham-Kent Police Service Board (CKPSB) resort to having a PR firm deliver its budget requests to municipal council.

That’s what happened this year in London, as the London Police Services Board spent in excess of $100,000 retaining a firm to deliver the budget information to London city council.

they needed the expertise to handle a $672-million request.

Pat Weaver, chair of the CKPSB, said to not expect to see such a thing take place here.

“Considering the Chatham-Kent Police Service budget process and the co-operation we’ve had with council over the years, there will never been any reason to put anybody between us,” he said. “The transparency has got to stay there.”

“Considering the Chatham-Kent Police Service budget process and the co-operation we’ve had with council over the years, there will never been any reason to put anybody between us.”

Councillors said in previously published reports they felt pressured by such a move, while the board defended the action, saying

- Police board’s Pat Weaver

What occurs locally is the board and the chief of police hammer out a proposed budget and then the chief presents it to council during budget deliberations.

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Weaver added that changes to the Police Act earlier this year make it easier for municipal councils to actually reject a police budget.

“With the new Police Act, a municipality, or a council, used to be able to refuse a budget. But under the new Act, they can actually propose their own budget,” he said. “As long as their proposition meets the provincial standards of supply of service, they can challenge any other part of the police budget.”

Weaver said preventing such an action is to continue to communicate.

“It is the most important thing there is. It’s one of the biggest reasons for changes in the Police Act. It’s forcing police services to co-operate more with their municipalities,” he said.

Saturday, September 28 9am-5pm

Sunday, September 29 10am-1pm

Companions for ChangeTM is the charity brand arm of the Pet Valu family of stores, dedicated to supporting causes that help pets and pet parents in need in their local community, and across Canada. Each year, we hold two big events – Pet Appreciation Month and Companions for Change Month –to collect food and supplies for pets in need and host adoption events to help find the right forever homes for homeless pets. To learn more about Companions for Change, its supported causes and events visit https://www.petvalu.ca/companionsforchange.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice Works of crow-flavoured art and home décor greeted many at various locations in Chatham recently. A total of 19 homes took up the challenge to decorate their front yards and porches in a contest. Shown here is a creepy collection at a home on Park Street. A Collegiate Drive homeowner took top prize.

Marco Acampora* 519-784-4348

Ashley Amato* 519-365-5677

Dane Appleton* 519-436-7195

Kelly-Anne Appleton* 519-365-7155

Austin Bentley 226-340-1163*

Sarah Callow* 509-809-5446

Megan Canniff* 226-626-7133

Stephen Carroll* 519-355-9774

Terry Chauvin* 519-437-8498.

Anna-Marie Clark* 519-354-7890

Ron Collins* 519-401-8464

Darren Hart* 226-627-8580

Michelle Hetherington 519-401-2635*

Michael Gibbons* 519-365-5634

Jeff Godreau* 519-365-4852

Matthew Giffin* 647-222-3472

Adam Deseure* 519-350-5787 Lisa Everaert* 519-330-8548 Eric Fitzgerald* 519-436-4865

Janet Ellen Mader* 226-881-0098

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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

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Deborah Rhodes* 519-401-5470

David Smith* 519-350-1615

The lazy, hazy days of September

Judy Woodrow/Special to The Chatham Voice

This Wallaceburg resident soaked in the sun in style recently, enjoying a leisurely float down the Sydenham River through the community on a sunny September day.

Natural ‘garden’ on display at LTVCA

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

What some on social media have dubbed an eyesore in front of the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority offices in Chatham actually serves multiple important purposes.

That according to Genevieve Champagne, manager of conservation and lands with the LTVCA.

To some, the strip of land in front of the Thames Street property, is a jumble of plants. And that is exactly what the LTVCA wants. However, it’s a carefully orchestrated grouping rather than a random jumble.

“A lot of people don’t understand it and just think we let it go feral,” she said of the property. “It was by design. It’s a bio-swale, which is a swale that has a biomass blended soil mix.”

The bio-swale is designed to serve multiple purposes above and below ground.

At its base, the land has

perforated tile at the bottom covered in gravel.

The soil atop that is rife with plants at the surface that have deep root structures.

“This filters the water and collects water more efficiently than a normal swale. A normal swale is just grass,” Champagne said. “The root system will absorb water. And with that, less water is going into the storm sewer system.”

Additionally, they are all drought-tolerant plants. What’s more, they are native species.

“They’re very hardy. They’re meant to be in this climate,” Champagne said. “We don’t have to water it ever.”

Right now, on top of its water-capturing abilities, the swale is providing habitat for Monarch butterflies as they migrate south for the winter.

Later in the fall, it will serve a seed supply depot.

“In the fall, our plants start to dry out. They’re looking a little more

crispy,” Champagne said.

“Staff will collect seeds at the office here and at other conservation areas. We’ll redistribute across our properties and give away some to other land owners.”

Once the seed collection is complete, staff will trim back the swale for the winter.

The bio-swale has been in place for half a decade. Champagne said it is maturing nicely.

“When it was first planted, it didn’t look anything

Baha’i to talk ‘life after death’

The Chatham Voice

A talk to discuss “life after death” will be held at the Chatham-Kent Public Library Sept. 28.

Put on by the Baha’i Community of Chatham-Kent, the session will feature speaker Dr.

Sepideh Taheri, a paediatrician and Western University associate professor.

Taheri, who formerly served as a paediatrician and honorary senior lecturer at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children and University of Edinburgh,

combines clinical work with teaching. She has a special interest in health, advancement of women and comparative religion.

The session, which also features music and refreshments, runs from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. All are welcome.

like it does now. We have quite a habitat in there,” she said. “As the plants mature, they drop seeds within the area. These re-establish and they thicken up. It’s a really important, diverse part of our ecosystem.”

Champagne said the bioswale of diverse but native species is not isolated to the LTVCA offices.

They are in place in other conservation areas, and in certain places maintained by the municipality.

“It works well in spaces that don’t need to be constantly maintained. It works well along Mud Creek, for example,” she said. It just doesn’t look like a flower garden, but instead serves purposes beyond the aesthetic.

Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice

Amanda Blain of the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority showcases part of the bio-swale outside the authority’s offices on Thames Street in Chatham. It’s natural habitat, and is designed to capture water and feed local wildlife.

Orange Shirt Day

Monday, September 30, 2024

Join us and hundreds of others across Canada and wear an orange shirt on Monday, September 30th to honour the children who survived the Indian Residential Schools and remember those that didn’t. Every Child Matters. We will wear orange shirts in recognition of the harm the residential school system did to children’s sense of self-esteem and well-being, and as an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone matters.

Orange Shirt Day is a legacy of the St. Joseph Mission (SJM) residential school commemoration event held in Williams Lake, BC, Canada, in May 2013. It grew out of Phyllis’ story, and it has become an opportunity to keep the discussion on all aspects of residential schools happening annually. The date was chosen because it is the time of year that children were taken from their homes to residential schools, and because it is an opportunity to set the stage for anti-racism and anti-bullying policies for the coming school year. Orange Shirt Day is also an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities, to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come.

Wearing an orange shirt and promoting the slogan, Every Child Matters, is an affirmation of our commitment to raise awareness of the residential school experience and to ensure that every child matters as we focus on our hope for a better future in which children are empowered to help each other. Let’s not forget the children, but honour them on September 30th.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Monday, September 30, 2024

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was officially recognized by the Government of Canada in 2021 as a result of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. This is a day to lean in, listen, and learn about the ongoing impacts of colonization, including residential schools. It’s a day to learn the ‘truth’ of our shared history, and about how we can create pathways towards reconciliation and healing in our personal and professional lives.

Events happening in Chatham-Kent

Thursday, September 26, 12:00 PM

Flag Raising, Civic Centre, Chatham

Come together as a community to raise the Truth & Reconciliation

Survivor’s flag and learn about local initiatives to support Reconcli-ACTION in Chatham-Kent. Orange shirts and orange shirt cookies will be available for purchase in support of local Indigenous-led and reconciliation-related programs.

Friday, September 27, 7:00 AM - 8:30 AM, Rise-N-Shine, Deshkan Ziibi, 495 King St W, Chatham

7:00 AM Sunrise teachings. 7:30 AM Morning stretches. 8:00 AM Breakfast snack.

Behind the Coach House.

September 30 Listen. Learn. Reflect. National Day of Truth and Reconcilliation.

Friday, September 27, 10:00 AM

Orange Shirt Day

Stories & Activities, Chatham Branch,

CK Public Library

Join the CK Public Library & Ska:na Family Learning Centre for stories and activities to recognize and support Orange Shirt Day. Drop-in. Best suited for children 0-5 years of age.

Monday, September 30, 10:30 AM

Healing Walk and Gathering, Wallaceburg

Walk starts at Wallaceburg Library Branch, 209 James St. Gathering at Civic Square Park to follow. Walk together and listen to guest speakers share their experiences and ideas about how we can heal.

Monday, September 30, 12:00 - 5:00 PM

Orange Shirt Pin

Drop-In, Tilbury & Wheatley Branch,

CK Public Library

Drop in at the CK Public Library Tilbury & Wheatley Branches to make your own orange shirt pin. No registration required.

Thursday, October 10, Homelands, Chatham Capitol Theatre

Performance by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre.

A celebration of life and nature in Indigenous dance! Embark on a mesmerizing journey through time and connection with Homelands, choreographed by renowned Six Nations of the Grand River artist Santee Smith.

News

Rounding up roundabout cost

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Work on the new roundabout at the Queen’s Line and Merlin Road intersection is set to begin this fall, despite a spike in costs.

At a recent meeting, council approved spending a total of $6.5 million for the construction of the roundabout in West Kent, including the revamp of the adjacent bridge over Government Drain No. 1.

Chatham-based Huron Construction has been awarded the contract.

The first phase of the project will see the realignment of Merlin Road and Queen’s Line.

The second phase, slated for February 2025, will see the rehabilitation of the bridge, with the final phase of the roundabout construction to follow.

Cost of the work has increased substantially since the original estimate from 2021 of $2.1 million. Staff say rising

inflation and the added rehabilitation of the bridge contributed to the increase, with the bridge work coming in at around the $2-million mark.

According to an administrative report, the work will require the closure of Merlin Road in both directions for extended periods, while maintaining traffic flow along Queen’s Line. According to Brendan Falkner, manager of engineering, roads and bridges for the

municipality, the project is “complex,” as the roadway must be maintained as an emergency detour route for Highway 401 traffic if needed.

Roundabouts, which are used extensively in other parts of Canada, change the way vehicles interact by eliminating conflict points, which in turn reduces the severity of collisions.

“It’s not just building a roundabout, it’s co-ordinating it with the ministry,” Falkner said. “There

are complex staging and traffic control requirements.”

Falkner said administration decided to go ahead with the bridge work, incorporating it in the project, rather than putting it off.

“It’s sort of like putting two projects in one,” he added, noting any road closures will be communicated to the public in advance.

Members of council expressed support for the project.

“I’m happy to see this moving forward,” said Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey in speaking to the matter, noting the section of road is “deadly” with 23 collisions occurring there over a 10-year period.

West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson said that after speaking with farmers near the route, she’s satisfied the municipality will work with local producers to ensure crops are harvested and planted during the interruption.

Cellphone ban not an issue in local schools

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Ontario’s latest cellphone ban in schools may seem ground breaking, but officials say local school boards were ahead of the game.

St. Clair Catholic District School Board director Scott Johnson said the new edict didn’t effect much change within the board.

“In most of our schools, cellphones weren’t allowed anyways,” Johnson told The Voice in a recent interview. “We tell students to put their phones away and they do. Literally, it’s a moot point.”

Johnson said he’s spoken with other education directors in Ontario and learned the cellphone abuse isn’t considered to be a big problem.

“The less cellphones, the better,” he said, noting most parents want to see less phone usage among students.

“Our students are being compliant with the new restrictions on cellphones. We’re pleased to say it is running very smoothly.

Like vaping, it doesn’t seem to be a problem.”

It’s the same story over at the

Lambton Kent District School Board. Education superintendent Gary Girardi said the board’s already existing policy

“aligned “ with the ban which came into effect at the beginning of the school year, noting updating the school community was key.

“We made sure there was clear communication with parents,” Girardi stressed, adding a reminder about the restrictions was sent to all families prior to the school year.

“The school community has responded well,” he said. “By and large, most of our schools have lined up well. Anecdotally, things are going very well.”

According to Girardi, the board’s safe school committee, comprised of school administrators, will continue to monitor the situation and will address any problems that may arise.

Changes announced by Ontario’s Ministry of Education earlier this year decreed that students in kindergarten to Grade 6 are required to keep phones on silent and out of site for the entire school day, unless explicitly permitted by an educator. For students in Grades 7 to 12, cellphones will not be permitted during class time, unless directed by the educator.

As well, social

Protect their future

Scott Stanley, Agent 166 Richmond St Chatham ON 519-354-7977 scottstanley.ca

media websites will be removed from all school networks and devices, and report cards will in-

clude comment on students’ distraction levels in class.

The ministry will pro-

vide mandatory training for teachers and new supports for students and parents on the new rules.

Image courtesy Metro Creative Graphics

Local school board officials say the banning of student cellphones in regional schools has not led to any issues. The province enacted rules this term that the boards already had in place.

Sydenham River Slope Stabilization

Margaret Avenue at Dora Street

The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Schedule ‘B’ to determine appropriate mitigation strategies to address erosion and slope stability issues along the Sydenham River. Water’s Edge Environmental Solutions Team Ltd. has been retained by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent to complete the study in compliance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act. The study area along the Sydenham River in Wallaceburg is subject to on-going bank erosion and slope instability. The conditions of the slopes pose risks to road users, private property and infrastructure along Margaret Avenue.

Public Info Centre

Thursday, October 10th

5:00-7:00pm Wallaceburg

A Public Information Centre (PIC) will be held in Wallaceburg with a drop-in open house format (no formal presentation) to provide an opportunity for residents and interested members of the public to review and comment on the proposed recommendations, including the preferred alternatives, the evaluation process, and the next steps in the study process.

Project information, including display slides and concept figures, will also be available to the public at www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/margaret-ave to allow stakeholders and interested members of the public to review project material at their own pace and submit comments for the project team which will be captured in the project record. Please provide your comments by November 15, 2024.

To submit a comment or question, or receive additional information, contact: Matthew Link, A.Sc.T.

Project Manager, Engineering Municipality of Chatham-Kent

519-360-1998 | ckinfo@chatham-kent.ca

Ed Gazendam, Ph.D., P.Eng.

President, Sr. Geomorphologist

Water’s Edge E.S.T. Ltd.

519-651-2390 | ed@watersedge-est.ca

Heart and Sole winners

Residents at Meadow Park in Chatham got physical and fiscal this summer, earning accolades from the Alzheimer Society of Chatham-Kent.

Led by resident Lorraine Young, who raised $750 of the home’s $1,100 contribution for the society’s recent fundraising walk, residents turned on the fundraising.

In July, Meadow Park hosted a Let’s Get Physical afternoon, a 1980’s-themed event complete with a walking track and fun course with hula hooping and ring toss for residents, retro costumes and music.

Young was awarded a prize for her costume, and Meadow Park officials said she was an inspiration to her fellow community members.

That team effort led to the local branch of the Alzheimer Society giving Meadow Park the Heart and Sole Award for being the top long-term care fundraising community in the municipality for the walk.

Residents celebrated in mid-September with an event, which included a visit by local MPP Dave Epp.

“Meadow Park Chatham offers many excellent programs for residents living with de-

mentia, but our home is about more than health care. It is a place where residents are supported in living their best today and tomorrow,” said Ginelle Spence, administrator of Meadow Park Chatham, in a media release.

Chatham:

Anne’s Smoke Shop, Downtown Chatham Centre, Legion Branch 628, Maple City Bakery, Loads of Love, Active Lifestyle Centre, Wimpys, Pharmasave, Schinkels, Lenovers, Betty Brite, Real Canadian Superstore, Hasty Market, Library, Shaya Convenience 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, Library, Blenheim Variety, Blenheim Municipal Service Centre, 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, Rosie’s, Tim Hortons, Foodland

Charing Cross: Post Office/Bert’s Plumbing Wheatley: Circle K Store, Jack’s Restaurant, Library Bothwell: Library Highgate: Library Ridgetown: Library

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

Meadow Park resident Lorraine Young, shown taking part in the facility’s Let’s Get Physical afternoon earlier this summer, helped lead the way in fundraising for the annual walk for the Alzheimer Society to the point Meadow Park earned the Heart and Sole Award as top fundraising long-term care facility for the walk.

Johnson to retire in March Howitt to retire next year

After 33 years as a professional educator, Scott Johnson is retiring.

The St. Clair Catholic District School Board’s director of education announced he will step away from the job in March 2025.

Johnson began his career as an elementary teacher with the Halton District Catholic School Board in 1992. in 2005, he and his family relocated to Sarnia

where he joined the SCCDSB.

He has served as an elementary and secondary teacher, student success teacher, behavioral resource teacher, elementary principal, secondary vice-principal and education superintendent. He took on the director’s role in 2021.

Provincially, Johnson has been a mentor, adjudicator and guest speaker for the Ontario Catholic Supervisory Officers’ Asso-

ciation, as well as serving on many local boards.

In a media release, the married father of three adult children expressed gratitude for the support he’s received over the years.

SCCDSB board chair

John Van Heck thanked Johnson for his work, calling his leadership “a true blessing.”

After leading the Lambton-Kent District School Board for the past six years, education director John Howitt is retiring. Howitt will end his 33year career in education in April 2025.

“I am incredibly grateful to have spent my career surrounded by individuals dedicated to the safety, happiness, health, well-being and success of children,” Howitt

said in a media release.

“Throughout my career, supporting students has been at the heart of my work.”

After his career path took him away from teaching in the classroom, Howitt said he was able to continue this work through mentoring many “extraordinary individuals.”

Howitt spent 27 years with the Greater Essex County District School Board before joining the

LKDSB, starting off as a core French teacher.

During his tenure with the LKDSB, Howitt has been dedicated to ensuring the success of all students.

In his retirement, Howitt is looking forward to spending quality time with his wife Patti, their two daughters and his future son-in-law.

The Chatham Voice

Scott Johnson

John Howitt

Indigenous people face shorter lives

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Indigenous people in Canada don’t live as long as non-Indigenous individuals.

And it’s not even close.

According to Dr. Shanker Nesathurai, medical officer of health for Chatham-Kent, statistics indicate First Nations people live to an average age of 75, while non-Indigenous folks live an average of nine years longer.

Nesathurai said health officials consider reaching the age of 75 as having lived a full life.

“For First Nation men, only 53 per cent live to the age of 75,” he said. “For non-Indigenous men, 75 per cent reach 75. The average Indigenous person has only a 5050 chance of living a full life.” He said these figures come from a Health Canada report, and raise questions.

etc. but we don’t’ inquire about the person’s cultural background.”

Nesathurai added even if they began to ask the question, people may very well be reticent to reply, as there would be concern about how the information could be utilized.

“The reluctance to share this information is rooted in distrust,” he said.

In terms of seeking healthy outcomes, across the country, First Nation people might have a concern about the safety of the water people drink, “just like we might want to know how long people live.”

“What we are doing is we are working on a plan to ask people to share their cultural information; to self-identify.”

- Dr. Shanker Nesathurai

In Chatham-Kent, CK Public Health services about 4,500 Indigenous people, and Nesathurai and other public health officials would like more information to work with in regard to the lifespan disparity. But it does not yet exist. Public Health officials want to change that.

“We have local issues and local action is required to make a fundamental difference,” Nesathurai said to the board of health at a recent meeting. “Data is required. Without data, we won’t be able to measure the impact of any intervention or strategy. And with Indigenous people, we have very little data.”

As to why there is such an information gap, the medical officer of health said, “One of my colleagues put it quite boldly: We don’t ask. We ask the patient’s age, weight,

Different perspectives and different priorities.

Nesathurai said if questions are asked, the people making the queries had better be prepared to deal with the answers.

“When you ask someone a question, you have to be prepared for an answer that might make you uncomfortable,” he said.

Carina Caryn, acting director of CK Public Health, agreed.

“We also have to be prepared to use the information. We can’t just ask questions and not use the information,” she said.

Caryn said the questions can help with relationship building with local Indigenous people.

It’s part of reconciliation efforts. It’s part of building “respectful relationships,” as we work towards a more inclusive and equitable society “by closing the gaps,” Nesurathai said. “What we are doing is we are working on a plan to ask people to share their cultural information; to self-identify.”

With that information in hand, CK Public Health officials hope to understand what is leading to shorter lifespans for our First Nation people.

Community Events

Thursday, September 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. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

• Afternoon Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1-4pm. Bring your singing voice/instruments and join us for a great afternoon. Donation welcome.

Friday, September 27, 2024:

• Enjoy a friendly game of Pepper, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.

• 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 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. Come and play Fun Darts starting at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

• Delicious Ham and Scalloped Potato Dinner at Merlin Legion starting at 4:30-7pm. $14.50 all in. Take outs also available. Contact Legion 519-689-4884 to book your spot!!

• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St. is a Pork Tenderloin dinner with potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. All meals are served at 6pm. Everyone welcome. Call 519-3528291 to order.

Saturday, September 28, 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.

• 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 D.A.M Band from 4:30-9:30. Come out and check out our menu. Everyone is welcome.

• Baldoon Fun Day presented by the Wallaceburg & District Museum. Join us in the Crawford Langstaff Parkette from 10:00am-3:00pm. Stop by, take a look, and learn what life was life 200 years ago. Artifacts, rope making, Baldoon mystery, demonstrations.

• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 11am-3pm. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question, read a book, or chat about life or what we’ve been working on. Get some clothes from our Out of the Closet program, use the Community cupboard & more! No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome.

• Saturdays at 7 concert at St. Andrew’s United Church, Chatham is A Whole New World. Alan Menken wrote unforgettable melodies for Disney and Broadway productions including Aladdin, Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. This concert’s music will delight everyone, including children. Donations at the door (suggested $20). All are welcome. For further information www.standrewschatham.org/music or 519-352-0010.

• Experience Wallaceburg’s Yesterdays: See which buildings in town are the oldest, what they were originally used for, and meet the people who built them! $15 per seat. Tour leaves the Museum at 11:00 and 1:00 sharp. Tour is 3km in length and will be tractor-driven. Call the Wallaceburg Museum at 519-6278962 to book. This event is weather permitting. Rainchecks will be given to those who have booked.

• Life After Death. The Baha’i Community of Chatham-Kent is excited to invite you to this free lecture with Dr. Sepideh Taheri. Following will be an open dialogue on life after death. There will be refreshments and musics. All are welcome. 1:00pm-5:00pm at the Chatham Kent Public Library (please use back entrance). 120 Queen St., Chatham.

Sunday, September 29, 2024:

• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 9AM to Noon. All meals are cooked to order. Everyone welcome.

Monday, September 30, 2024:

• Enjoy a friendly game of Euchre, 1pm. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.

Tuesday, October 1, 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 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, October 2, 2024:

• Sprucedale United Church Broasted Chicken Dinner – 493 Victoria Ave., Chatham. Includes all the fixings. 4:30-6:30 pm – drive-thru only. Adults $25.00 – Children Under 12 $10.00. Tickets must be purchased in advance and picked up prior to the event. Please email sprprov@ gmail.com with your information or call the Church office at 519-3540060 and leave a message.

• 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. We have Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome.

Thursday, October 3, 2024:

• Afternoon Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1-4pm, Bring your singing voice/instruments and join us for a great afternoon. Donation welcome.

• 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. The Popular L.A. Bingo starts at 7pm. Everyone is welcome.

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

3. Invests in little enterprises 4. Rock legend Turner 5. Dug into 6. Laughed 7. Northern European nation 8. San Diego ballplayer 9. Eight 10. Substitutes (abbr.)

12. Moved swiftly on foot

CLUES ACROSS

1. Unequaled

5. __-fi (slang)

8. Synthetic resin

11. Chadic language Bura-__

13. Influential come Election Day

14. Bucket 15. European river 16. Earn a perfect score

17. Horizontal passage

18. Barely sufficient 20. Dekaliter

21. Goo Goo Dolls hit

22. Australian city 25. Female servants

30. Plumbing fixtures

31. Tooth caregiver 32. Book of Esther antagonist 33. Say aloud 38. Thyrotrophic hormone 41. Absolute 43. Untimely

45. Area or neighborhood

47. Juicy fruit

49. Expresses distaste, disapproval

50. S. American rodents

55. Swedish rock group

56. Influential American president

57. Volume

59. Begged

60. Resinlike substance secreted by certain lac insects

61. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation

62. Good friend

63. Body part

64. Tableland CLUES DOWN

1. Barrels per day (abbr.)

2. Body parts

14. Compensated

19. Volcano in the Philippines

23. Speak ill of

24. One who publishes

25. Expression of bafflement

26. Macaws

27. Matchstick game

28. We all have our own

29. Divinatory

34. Explosive

35. Follows sigma

36. Sea eagle

37. Type of bread

39. Bit used with a set of reins

40. Time away from work

41. Parts per thousand (abbr.)

42. Lots on your plate (abbr.)

44. Actor Brosnan

45. It’s part of packaging

46. Towards the oral region

47. Public Theater creator Joseph 48. Ancient Syrian city

51. Swiss river

52. Mollusk

53. A French abbot

54. Hoagies

58. Not present (slang) Answers found on page 23

Plenty to crow about

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Grade 12 art students at John McGregor Secondary School understood the assignment.

The class was asked by the owners of Turns & Tales to create crowthemed art to display in the windows of the downtown Chatham store.

In under two weeks’ time, the students delivered.

“They stepped up,” said teacher Jenn McQuade, who helped organize the initiative. “They gave up their personal time and even came in on the weekend to finish the project.”

Two paintings and a repurposed chandelier complete with bright blue origami crows were cho-

sen by the class for the display.

Ironically, one of the paintings was the first Caleb Lewsaw has completed. The unnamed piece features a trio of crows – one is bespectacled –reading a magic book. The other painting, also unnamed, is a canvas by Avery Kennedy depicting a crow sitting on a skull atop a pile of books. It’s only the second year that Kennedy has been painting.

The chandelier, created by Chloe Tetrault, is called “Other Friends Have Flown Before.” Tetrault thrifted the chandelier, used recycled various household items such as bottle caps, and crafted all of the crows herself.

The Arts

Kennedy said the collaborative effort on the Turns & Tales

Saturdays at 7 series opens Sept. 28

facts about Menken’s creative journey.

Announcement

The music returns to St. Andrew’s Church on Saturday for the opening performance of the 2024-25 Saturdays at 7 series.

A Whole New World, celebrating the music of the acclaimed Disney composer Alan Menken, begins at 7 p.m.

Organizers say it’s an evening of song and storytelling for all ages. Menken has shaped the soundtracks of numerous features, including The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Newsies, and more.

This concert will explore his career, presenting both familiar hits and hidden gems in a chronological format, highlighting his work across film, TV, and stage.

Audience members will experience not only the music but also behind-the-scenes stories and fun

Devon Hansen, director of music at St. Andrew’s and accompanist for the program, said he has long been a Menken fan.

“The music of Alan Menken has always had a special place for me as I was part of the generation that grew up on his Disney classics,” he said in a media release.

The evening will be filled with music performed by a group of local artists including Colin Bell, Andrew Derynck, Victoria Hoshowsky, Sarah Steele, Josh Campbell, Meg Mackenzie and more.

Donations (suggested $20 per person) will be gratefully accepted at the door and will go towards the music program at St. Andrew’s. All are welcome.

For further information refer to. standrewschatham.org/music.

Anderson Law Group is pleased to announce that Katherine Denkers, B.A., M.A., LL.B., OAFM(AccFM) has joined the firm.

Born and raised in Charing Cross, Katherine completed her law degree at the University of Sussex (U.K.) and was called to the Ontario Bar in 2018.

Katherine is a Certified Family Mediator and practices in the areas of family law, family mediation, collaborative family law and real estate law.

Katherine will be working from both our Chatham and Wallaceburg locations, and is available for appointments in-person or virtually.

619 James St. P.O. Box 409 Wallaceburg, ON 519-627-2261 44 William St. N., P.O. Box 7 Chatham, ON 519-397-2889

display exemplified the class motto of “given an opportunity for public art – we take it.”

The Chatham Voice

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Caleb Lewsaw, Chloe Tetrault, Avery Kennedy and Taylor Burk show off the works of art created in Jenn McQuade’s Grade 12 art class at John McGregor Secondary School. Students were asked to create pieces for a Crowfest display at Turns & Tales.

OBITUARIES

Harry Moody

91, Sunday, September 15, 2024

Kendrick Funeral Home

Janet Craven

71, Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

William “Bill” Howe

88, Sunday, September 15, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

James “Jim” Hawryluk

83, Monday, September 16, 2024

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Debra Anne Bray

68, Tuesday, September 17, 2024

Badder Funeral Home

Donna Marie Smith

77, Thursday, September 12, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Lee Hebblethwaite

56, Monday, September 16, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Ronald Beavis

96, Friday, September 13, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Thomas Garant-Alliet

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Margaret Russchen

86, Wednesday, September 18, 2024 McKinlay Funeral Home

Ruth Button

96, Wednesday, September 18, 2024

McKinlay Funeral Home

Donald Rice

Saturday, September 14, 2024 Life Transitions

Hadley “Jerry” Smith

92, Sunday, September 15, 2024 Life Transitions

Evan Merritt

81, Monday, September 16, 2024 Life Transitions

Helen Walton-McCann

92, Wednesday, September 11, 2024

Nicholls Funeral Home

Robert Lee Barr

67, Saturday, September 14, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home

Jim Stokes

94, Thursday, September 12, 2024