Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Merlin couple shares love of Christmas
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, especially in Merlin.
That’s thanks to Liz and Jonas Cook, who for the last seven years have put together a holiday-themed feast for the eyes.
Each year on the first weekend of December, the Cooks open their Aberdeen Street home to showcase “The Little Village in Merlin.”
There’s a large indoor
winter village display Liz is in charge of, as well as an outdoor extravaganza Jonas takes the lead on, reminiscent of the Griswolds in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.
Visitors gain entry to the festive display by donating a toy or canned good to supply the Merlin Community Assistance Program. Donations are used to assist the Merlin Christmas basket program and stock the local food bank.
The Cooks said it’s their way of giving back, as
they had to make use of the program in earlier years.
“We had to utilize the Christmas basket program when we were younger and Jonas was laid off in the winter,” Liz said. “Doing the Christmas display brings us joy and allows us to give back.”
Liz estimates she’ll have 84 hours of time invested in building the three-tier display that includes an estimated 200 buildings, 1,000 people and 500 trees.
The couple started the display with only three building Jonas gifted her when their children were small. Now the pair is constantly on the lookout
to add pieces, checking out online websites and estate sales.
Liz gives her husband kudos when it comes wiring and setting up the unique settings, many of which are electrically powered.
“It’s pretty complicated,” she said. “Jonas is Mr. Fix It and he’s the one who builds my structures.”
The outdoor display in the front yard is impressive in its own right and, according to Liz, it’s growing as well.
“As time goes on, we keep adding to it,” she said. “Whatever Jonas’ whim is, that’s how it goes. The work that he puts in is phenomenal.”
Porchlight raises $57K
The Chatham Voice
While Dec. 2 delivered a chilly night, the giving was red hot.
Chatham Goodfellows volunteers went knocking on doors throughout Chatham for their annual Porchlight campaign, and doorway donors gave to the tune of $57,000.
“Thank you to all who donated to our Porchlight campaign last night, and to all the incredible volunteers, we are truly humbled,” Goodfellows spokesperson Tim Haskell said of the effort.
“Thanks for your contin-
ued support. Our organization is truly blessed and your generosity is truly incredible.”
Porchlight in 2023 brought in nearly $58,000. Next up for the organization that works to ensure “No Child Without a Christmas” are the Street Sales on Dec. 13 and 14 where volunteers seek donations in front of various high-traffic storefront locations around Chatham. Donations can be made via E-Transfer to donate@ chathamgoodfellows.ca. You will receive a receipt automatically.
Look what the lake washed up
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
A December storm on Lake Erie has yielded the wooden bones of a mystery ship from the lake’s tempestuous depths.
The sight caused Erieau resident Elma Renders to do a double take Dec. 5 as she walked along the beach on Mariner’s Road.
“It had been so windy here and when I looked out, I
said, ‘What is that?’” Renders told The Voice, explaining the water-logged debris resembled an upside-down boat, approximately 20 feet in length.
“It was a powerful storm,” she said of the blustery gale that led to the discovery.
“It was absolutely wild out there.”
Renders is among the residents curious about the origins of what appears to be parts of a hull, linked to an era when boats were the
nautical work horses carrying goods and raw materials around the Great Lakes.
During the 1800s, historians say Lake Erie’s marine route from Detroit to Buffalo was once one of the busiest in the world.
Erieau Marina owner Dave Barnier said he’s not surprised at the latest find.
“It’s not the first time parts of a boat have washed up on shore,” the long-time Erieau resident said.
Continued on page 4
Image courtesy Elma Renders
Lake Erie showcased its power, past and present, when it deposited the long-lost remains of a wooden vessel on the beach at Erieau recently.
‘Not unusual’
for lake to give up its treasures
Continued from page 3
“I’m not going to say it’s common but it’s not unusual.”
Barnier thinks the ship’s remnants may belong to a wooden steamer called The Lycoming that burned down to the waterline at the Erieau pier in 1910.
The boat was then towed to the other side of the Erieau channel and later purposedly sunk about six miles offshore.
The Lycoming and The
Colonial, which also sank on the lake, were sister ships, he added, carrying coal, lumber and stone from port to port. However, there are dozens of other wrecks the lake claimed over the years.
Barnier said Lake Erie’s storms can be merciless.
“It can be devastatingly rough out there,” he added. “All the boats on the bottom of the lake are proof of that.”
It is unknown if any his-
torical groups will examine the wreck’s scraps to try and determine their origin. But they may have to act quickly, Barnier said,
because the mystery ship could vanish as quickly as it came.
appear and then another storm comes and they disappear,” he said.
“They
Image courtesy Elma Renders
At this point, it’s not known to what ship or vessel this piece of wreckage belonged, or how long it was submerged under the swirling waters of Lake Erie off the Erieau shoreline.
Hopeful help for C-K’s cold homeless
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Winter’s biting temperatures have prompted officials at Hope Haven to open their doors to the homeless overnight.
And on the first evening, Dec. 2, a total of 41 people sheltered at the Wellington Street site to escape the cold.
According to general manager Loree Bailey, staying open overnight is being done in part to stave off the threat of people lighting fires inside tents within encampments – something that could lead to injury or death.
“I can tell you that people will do whatever they can to stay warm,” Bailey told The Voice. “They’re burning whatever they can find in coffee cans inside their tents. It’s going to get colder and we had to make a decision to stay open.
“People are going to die and I think as a community we can do better than that,” Bailey stressed.
The downtown Chatham outreach is now open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. each day in addition to its daily daytime hours of 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
On average, the agency is seeing 80 people visit in the daytime slot.
Many walk over from the encampment that’s taken root near Harvey’s restaurant in Rotary Park in downtown Chatham.
“Some just come for a hot coffee or a bowl of soup,” Bailey explained, noting attendees can have a hot shower, do laundry, use a computer or phone and get something to eat or drink.
“People have different needs,” she added, explaining those who visit Hope Haven are not all homeless. “Some are hungry and don’t have groceries. Some don’t have heat in their homes.”
In an administrative report to council in November, it was stated there are approximately 10 encampments in Chatham-Kent where some 200 people are living. The Victoria Park Place shelter is presently operating at its 45-bed capacity.
“I don’t want people to think this will eliminate the encampment problem,” Bailey explained. “It will not. But it will mean people are not forced to have fires overnight.”
Bailey said the charity had planned to approach Chatham-Kent council Dec. 9 to help fund Hope Haven’s expanded hours, asking for $65,000 in funding to see the overnight program through to March 2025.
If approved, the funding would build on the existing
agreement between the municipality and Hope Haven that sees the charity open its doors when temperatures dip to -5C or greater.
As of press time, council’s decision was not known.
The initial program is already approved for $25,000.
Donations are always welcome, Bailey said, and E-transfers are currently preferred as the Canada Post strike has hampered people sending in cheques via the mail.
E-transfers to the agency can be made at chathamhopehaven@gmail. com.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Hope Haven general manager Loree Bailey mans the desk, including surveillance cameras, at the Wellington Street operation in Chatham. Last week the facility began staying open overnight every day to help the unhoused stay warm. The agency was expected to go before Chatham-Kent council this week to seek additional funding for the outreach.
There is no sure-fire way to immediately fix the homeless problem in Chatham-Kent, and beyond.
That is a grim reality, one that unfortunately that has left various groups competing for limited funds in aiding the unhoused.
We’d offer to look at the situation from the top down, but the way funds are failing to flow from the top – the federal government – makes that a wasted effort.
With what limited funds are available – and keep in mind nearly half of the municipal tax hike next year is largely due to the homeless issue – are heavily sought after by groups seeking to aid our homeless.
And those groups don’t always follow the same path.
Reach Out Chatham-Kent (R.O.C.K.) Missions mindset, according to their website, is that “no one should face homelessness or substance abuse alone.” To R.O.C.K., the biggest problem our homeless and addicted people face is being prejudged by the masses. A big part of their method of support is to deliver food, hygiene products and other supports directly to those in need on a regular basis.
Opinion
No easy fix Keep all buildings, including the hub
Hope Haven offers a warm space in the winter, and a cool one in the summer, for folks in need. It is a host organization, much different from R.O.C.K.’s reach-out format.
Both serve a need, but neither are a
solution.
What’s the answer? Get our homeless affordable housing? Get the addicted off drugs? Get the mentally ill the help they require?
All must be addressed, as they are all intermeshed.
Getting our homeless off the streets helps the rest of us feel good, as they at least have a warm place to sleep at night. But not all will take such an offering if it materializes. Mental illness and addiction will have many distrusting of the situation.
Getting our addicted to a rehab facility sounds wonderful. But if proper housing, job prospects and an ongoing support system is not in place for when they come out of rehab, or even jail, chances are that these people will slide back into old habits, cavort with old friends from their past lifestyle, and return to addiction.
As for our mentally ill, governments and society have let them down for decades, and continue to do so. Having police show up to deal with someone in mental distress often only serves to escalate matters, as most officers just don’t have the training, or the time given the massive number of calls fielded each day, to deal with mental health calls. We need trained, non-uniformed response.
None of that is easy; none of it is cheap. And it seems no one in government is willing to pay for it all.
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Editor: With council having purchased the former Sears store, I’m sure many readers do not realize that the Community Hub will not use the existing store as is.
I believe the plan is to demolish the exterior of the building, with only the steel frame and perhaps some structural walls retained as part of a new building to be erected on the site.
This is why it will cost $53 million.
May I suggest a cheaper alternative?
Move the library to the ground floor of the existing Sears building, retaining the current brick exterior. Add an additional entrance onto King Street, keep the rear doors for accessible vehicles to drop off at, and brick up the side door on Fifth Street.
This will give the library space for both existing
programs and future uses.
Move the museum to the building currently used as the library. The museum should be a tourist attraction, and locating it downtown in a standalone building would enable it to be open at times when visitors are in Chatham i.e summer weekends, stat holidays, etc.
Refurbish the existing Civic Centre, a beautiful building, but make the refurbishment work easier, and therefore cheaper, by temporarily moving departments to the second floor of the Sears building and rotating them back as work progresses (i.e move one floor at a time).
Keep the existing council chambers in place, but improve access by adding an additional accessible elevator attached
to the exterior of the building, opposite the existing elevator. See if the space currently used by the YourTV team could be freed up for additional seating/ wheelchair use. Work with YourTV to find them space elsewhere. Keep the existing fire department Station 1, saving $10 to $20 million. Once the Civic Centre refurbishment was completed, work with the owners of 100 King to see if the second-floor space would fit into their plans, or if not, work with a developer to convert it into small affordable apartments, bringing more people to live in our beautiful downtown. I feel this would be a better, cheaper solution than the current proposals.
John Willatt Chatham
Dresden dump opponents secure their legal team
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative
pamwrightlji@gmail.com
An environmental assessment of the proposed Dresden dump could be anywhere from three to eight years away, but those opposed to the project continue to gear up for the fight.
To that end, two experienced lawyers from the Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA) have joined Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal (C.A.R.E.D.) in the battle.
Rick Lindgren, who helped author Ontario’s Environmental Bill of Rights in the 1990s, and CELA executive director Theresa McClenaghan made the trek to Dresden recently to get a first-hand look at what the community is trying to defend.
“It’s pretty impressive,” Lindgren told The Voice following the tour. “It’s a really well-organized group. I think they fully
understand what they’re up against and they’ve done a great job getting organized, getting involved and getting informed.”
McClenaghan echoed her colleague.
“I often say we never ever win cases for our clients by ourselves,” she said. “It really takes motivated communities and we then just give a hand.”
CELA’s involvement with Dresden C.A.R.E.D. is the latest wrinkle in the quest to stop Mississauga-based York1 Environmental from expanding the dormant dump located just a kilometre north of town. If approved, the company plans on enlarging the site’s landfill capacity and will build a recycling depot and stormwater management pond system.
The community has been engaged in a vigorous nine-month fight against the project that would see hundreds of trucks transporting soil and construction waste daily to the site.
The company’s proposal came to light in February when it was discovered on the Environmental Registry of Ontario by chance. In July of this year, Ontario’s Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks ruled that an environmental assessment must be conducted regarding the development.
Lindgren and McClenaghan say the EA is good news.
“The fact that it’s been designated for an EA is really significant because there is a lot of transparency required in the process,” McClenaghan said. “It means the community’s voices will be taken seriously.”
Dresden’s landfill woes are similar to what happened near Ingersoll where, Oxford People Against the Landfill Alliance (OPAL) defeated
Environmental Disposal (C.A.R.E.D.). The two, who have agreed to act as counsel for the group, toured Dresden to get a look at the community the group is trying to protect from a large landfill expansion.
a landfill proposal in Zor- ra Township.
To place an order please visit our website or call 519-352-2831
We deliver locally to Chatham-Kent ($6.00 delivery fee) or pick up at South Chatham Village (40 Elm St.) Friday’s 11am-12pm or New Life Thrift Store (202 Queen St.) Saturday’s 10:30-12:30pm
Continued on page 8
NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSING Notice is hereby given that at a meeting of the Council of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent on December 16, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham , Council will consider, and if approved, may pass a by -law to stop up and close part of the road from Duquette Drive in the community of Wheatley:
NOTICE OF THE PROPOSED ROAD CLOSING Notice is hereby given that at a meeting of the Council of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent on December 16, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 315 King Street West, Chatham, Council will consider, and if approved, may pass a by-law to stop up and close part of the road from Duquette Drive in the community of Tilbury.
• Property Identification Number 00830 0040, Part of Lot 19 Concession 7 Geographic Township of Romney, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, being Part 1 of Part of PIN 00830 0040 as depicted in 24R11456
• Property Identification Number 00830 0040, Part of Lot 19 Concession 7 Geographic Township of Romney, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, being Part 1 of Part of PIN 00830 0040 as depicted in 24R11456.
At this meeting, Council will hear any person or their solicitor or agent, who claims that their land will be prejudicially affected by the by-law and who provide a written submission by email to the Clerk’s office (ckclerk@chatham-kent.ca) by 3:00pm on December 16th. For further information, please contact Amy McLellan, Manager, Revenue at 519-360-1998, Ext. 3185.
At this meeting, Council will hear any person or their solicitor or agent, who claims that their land will be prejudicially affected by the by-law and who provide a written submission by email to the Clerk’s office (ckclerk@chatham-kent.ca) by 3:00pm on December 16th. For further information, please contact Amy McLellan, Manager, Revenue at 519-360-1998, Ext 3185.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Canadian Environmental Law Association staff lawyer Richard Lindgren, above, along with colleague Theresa McClengahan, was recently hosted by Dresden Citizens Against Reckless
Proposed site close to Molly’s Creek
Continued from page 7
The grassroots group fundraised hundreds of thousands of dollars to oppose the development.
Lindgren and McClenaghan served as counsel for OPAL, noting Dresden’s case is similar as it’s “extremely close” to a community “that’s not at all welcoming,” noting the proximity to Molly’s Creek poses a threat to the groundwater supply.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has also stepped up to fight the dump, despite allegations that some elected officials were aware of York1’s proposal prior to the news becoming public.
A 4,000-signature petition is also part of Dresden C.A.R.E.D.’s arsenal. The petition, which calls on the government
to hold the project for a number of reasons, was read into the Ontario Legislature Dec. 5 by Hamilton West-Ancaster–Dundas MPP Sandy Shaw, opposition critic for the environment.
The petition contends that municipalities have the right to refuse a project that could negatively impact health, is located too close to the high school and elementary school, is a threat to water quality and endangered species in the Sydenham River watershed, will increase traffic congestion, and shouldn’t be allowed under Bill 197 as its less than the required 3.5 kilometres from town.
As part of the EA, Dresden’s rich history, the concerns of First Nations communities and the ar-
ea’s agricultural industry will also be considered, McClenaghan said.
Dresden C.A.R.E.D.
chairperson Stefan Premdas said the group is pleased to have CELA’s support and hopes the province will take note.
“We’ve given this government several options utilizing their own laws and parameters to safeguard communities, but they have chosen to ignore it and put us through the costly time-consuming environmental assessment process,” Premdas explained.
He said CELA’s commitment is a “manifestation of many, many months of hard work.
“We’re really thrilled to be able to pull back the curtains and show the community the strength
Canadian Environmental Law Association lawyer Rick Lindgren
sign at Molly’s Creek during a recent visit to Dresden.
of the partners that we are working with to help protect our homes,” he said.
According to Lindgren, next steps in the EA include setting out the terms of reference in a process that could take as long as eight years.
“None of that has happened yet to our knowledge,” he said. “That is something that’s initiated by the proponent and will be reviewed and/or approved or rejected by the Minister of the Environment. I’ve been involved in a lot of landfill fights across this province and they don’t happen quickly and they don’t get decided overnight.”
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
stands near a newly erected
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C-K home sales rise
The Chatham Voice
Typically, home sales cool off as fall progresses, but November in Chatham-Kent bucked that historical trend.
According to the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR), sales rose by more than 45 per cent as compared to November 2023.
In total, 109 units changed hands.
As warm as this November was for sales, it was still more than five-percent below the five-year averages for November
sales in Chatham-Kent, and 2.2-per-cent below the 10-year average.
Through the first 11 months of this year, home sales are up more than nine per cent from the same period in 2023, according to CKAR numbers, as 1,222 units sold.
Carrie Patrick, president of CKAR, said the market is gaining speed.
“Sales activity has been building momentum since the beginning of the year and November kept that rolling as sales were almost back on par with what we’d consider to
be typical for this time of year,” she said in a media release.
She credits some of the momentum to the fact inventory levels continue to rise, giving prospective buyers more options.
“New supply coming onto the market has remained strong, providing ample choice for buyers who are now coming back off the sidelines,” she said.
The number of new listings was up by 11 per cent from November 2023.
There were 193 new residential listings in November. This was the largest
number of new listings added in the month of November in more than two decades.
New listings for November topped the five-year average by nearly 13 per cent and beat the 10-year
average by almost 33 per cent.
The average home price was $446,856.
A CHRISTMAS QUIZ
1. What made Frosty come to life?
2. What Christmas accessories hide the trunk of a Christmas Tree?
3. What fairy tale inspired the first gingerbread house?
4. Which of Santa’s reindeer has the name of a female fox?
5. How many “la’s” are in the song “Deck the Halls”?
6. In 1965 what Christmas song did astronauts broadcast from space?
7. Which famous scientist has their birthday on December 26,1642?
8. What would your star sign be if you were born on Christmas?
9. What is the name of the actor who played Buddy the Elf in “Elf”?
10. In “Home Alone”, where did Kevin’s family travel for Christmas?
11. What is the name of the mountain in Canada named after the eight reindeer?
12. What year was “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement C Moore first published?
13. Before the invention of Christmas lights, what did people put on their Christmas trees?
14. In “A Christmas Story”, what Christmas gift did Ralphie get from his aunt?
CHRISTMAS MOUNTAINS
Help seniors get a Christmas dinner
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Do you know a senior who could use a little extra love during the holidays?
If so, you can nominate or sponsor someone for FreeHelpCK’s Adopt a Senior Christmas Eve initiative and provide some holiday cheer on the night before Christmas.
According to Geri Hughson, outreach co-ordinator for the agency, volunteers are hoping to deliver a homemade turkey dinner and a gift to some 500 seniors Dec. 24.
“We are looking for names of people who live by themselves or who are on their own,” she said. “People who might be alone at Christmas.”
Inflation and the high cost of living have increased the need this year, Hughson said, noting FreeHelpCK reaches out
to folks not covered under other programs.
“We have a lot of seniors that can’t afford Meals on Wheels,” Hughson told The Voice in a recent interview. “They can’t afford groceries.”
It’s the sixth year the volunteer-driven charity has helped out on Christmas
Eve, she said, noting the team plans on cooking 25 turkeys for the meal.
Donations for Adopt a Senior are welcome, Hughson said, adding the group is looking for gifts such as candy, cookies, blankets and slippers.
Donors can also personalize cards and visit with seniors when making a delivery.
FreeHelpCK’s Christmas Eve program builds
on the free meal program the organization undertakes throughout the year. Meals are delivered twice weekly at no charge, Hughson said, with an estimated 900 meals handed out in 2024.
If interested in making a donation or taking part, go to freehelpck.ca online or email freehelpck@ gmail.com. Tax receipts will be provided to donors who give.
Pinsonneault
set to run again
The
Just six months after winning the byelection for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, Steve Pinsonneault has been picked to run in the next provincial election as well.
The Ontario PC Party announced recently that Pinsonneault has been acclaimed.
“Steve Pinsonneault is a champion for his community, and his dedication to the people of Lambton-Kent-Middlesex is second to none,” said
Premier Doug Ford in a media release. “From improving local health care to investing in high-speed Internet and addressing cost-of-living challenges, to fighting the Liberal carbon tax, Steve is delivering actual results that make life better for families. I’m proud to have him on our team as we continue working to build a stronger Ontario.”
“Representing Lambton-Kent-Middlesex is an honor and a responsibility I take to heart,” said Steve Pinsonneault.
$100K in funding for Alzheimer support
The Alzheimer Society in Chatham-Kent is getting close to $100,000 to help families access support services.
The Ford government is providing $99,900 to connect more people in Chatham-Kent to dementia care, support and services they need, when they need them.
The funds are for the community-based First Link care program.
The program connects
people living with dementia, and their families, with help navigating care, education, and resources.
“This important investment by the Ontario government is a significant step forward in supporting individuals and families living with dementia across our province,” said Trevor Jones, MPP for Chatham-Kent–Leamington, in a media release.
Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, called the funding “a game changer.”
Chatham Voice
The Chatham Voice
Willson steps down as CK Pride leader
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Long-time CK Pride president Marianne Willson is passing the torch after nearly 25 “impactful” years of service with the organization.
The change will see vice-president Nathanial Dawthorne take the helm, with Bryan Edds moving into the vice-president’s chair.
According to a media release from the agency, Willson was instrumental in founding of the Cha-
tham-Kent Gay Pride Association in 2001 after first volunteering with the original Brothers and Sisters LGBT group in 1998.
“Marianne’s commitment to the 2SLGBTQIA+ has been crucial in driving the organization’s growth and promoting a welcoming environment in Chatham-Kent,” the release stated, noting that under her guidance, CK Pride has enhanced its outreach and support services.
Those accomplishments include the establishment of an annual Pride Parade and Family Festival each
August, and the creation of Bill’s Place community hub in Chatham, named after Bill Brokenshire, a former C-K resident who bequeathed a trust fund to the organization in his will. Bill’s Place currently offers a range of programs from drop-on sessions, community meals, a gender affirming clothing program, and support groups.
Also of note during Willson’s leadership was her response to a controversial “no to homosexuality” billboard in Chatham-Kent in 2018,
in which she emphasized the community’s diversity and inclusiveness. She highlighted the negative impact of divisive messages on local youth, advocating for love and support. This prompted community action to remove the billboard under the #Signs of Love Campaign.
According to the media statement, “Marianne’s mantra has been that we are one community; we are all Chatham-Kent. You can’t see a rainbow if you don’t dance in the rain.”
Beyond her role working with board of directors to foster partnerships that promote allyship, diversity and inclusion, Willson has served as a director on the board of Linck Child and Youth Family Supports and co-chairs the 2SLGBTQIA+ subcommittee task force of the C-K Ontario Health Team diversity equity working group. She also co-chairs the affirming committee of St. Paul’s Victoria Avenue United Church and participates in the stewards committee.
The organization stated
that CK Pride is excited to build on the strong foundation Willson has established.
Marianne Willson
News
More blowback on notwithstanding use
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Walter Van de Kleut
wishes Chatham-Kent’s mayor would walk back his endorsement of using the notwithstanding clause in relation to homeless encampments.
That’s what the Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic executive director had to say regarding the controversy surrounding the potential use of Section 33 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms that would strip the homeless, the mentally ill and the addicted of their basic constitutional rights.
There’s widespread speculation the notwithstanding clause will be used to temporarily override portions of the Charter, that could result in municipalities razing tent encampments, leaving those who live there
with nowhere to go. Premier Doug Ford has also announced tough, new legislation with regard to clearing encampments.
“This is a blunt instrument to use against the most vulnerable people in our society,” Van de Kleut told The Voice.
is building, including the legal community letter, which calls using the notwithstanding clause an “extreme measure.”
“This is a blunt instrument to use against the most vulnerable people in our society.”
- C-K Legal Clinic’s Walter Van de Kleut
“He (the mayor) made a mistake.”
Van de Kleut is among 450 members of Ontario’s legal community who signed a letter speaking out against Ford’s proposal to use the Charter’s notwithstanding clause to deal with homeless encampments. Twelve mayors – including Canniff – wrote a letter to Ford outlining strong support for the measure.
However, a wave of opposition to the measure
A letter signed by a number of Ontario municipal councillors, including C-K’s Alysson Storey, Michael Bondy and Rhonda Jubenville, is also opposed to the province utilizing the clause.
The notwithstanding clause is needed because of a decision in January 2023 by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.
Justice M.J. Valente ruled that the Region of Waterloo could not use a municipal bylaw to evict people living in an encampment in Kitchener because that bylaw was deemed to be in violation
of Section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Van de Kleut said he understands the frustration of mayors who signed the letter.
“We are all frustrated by encampments, but to incarcerate the most vulnerable people living there is a crime against humanity,” he said.
are not helping find solutions.
“We are all frustrated by encampments, but to incarcerate the most vulnerable people living there is a crime against humanity. We’re not talking about animals like raccoons or deer; we’re talking about human beings here.”
- Walter Van de Kleut
“We’re not talking about animals like raccoons or deer; we’re talking about human beings here.”
Van de Kleut points out that not all homeless are mentally ill or using drugs, as seniors and the elderly are increasingly becoming homeless and upper tier governments
“The federal and provincial governments have failed us,” he said, adding that neither are building affordable and social housing, and the cost of social housing continues to be downloaded on municipalities who can’t afford it.
“Therein lies the desperation of mayors,” Van de Kleut said, stressing that rent controls are badly needed as well.
If homeless encampments are taken down,
Van de Kleut wonders where the homeless are supposed to go.
“Are they supposed to
walk the streets? Die under a bridge? What are they going to do?” he asked.
However, those in favour of using the notwithstanding clause, like Canniff, argue the rights of ordinary citizens are being trampled by a host of problems – such as crime – associated with encampments.
Canniff told The Voice that using the notwithstanding clause is simply having another “tool in the toolkit.
“I don’t want to take away people’s rights; I would just like the ability to move the encampment to a more appropriate place. Where it (the Chatham encampment in Rotary Park) is, it’s infringing on people’s rights. That’s it, that’s all.” He also stressed that encampment dwellers would not be criminalized.
Seasonal care clinic opens at CKHA
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
The seasonal care clinic opens this week at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance.
The care trailer, run by CKHA staff and local EMS personnel, is set up outside the emergency department in Chatham. The clinic is designed to provide timely clinical services to individuals with cough, cold and flu symptoms, and other minor ailments. It’s also for people in Chatham-Kent who do not have a primary care provider such as a family doctor or nurse practitioner, or if you can’t be seen in a timely manner by your provider. It is also designed to divert people who are suffering signs of cold, flu and other respiratory illnesses from the emergency department.
However, anyone using the clinic will still be required to visit the registration desk in the emergency department and will be seen on a walk-in basis.
Caen Suni, vice-president of clinical programs and operations at CKHA, said the trailer was well received last year.
Last season, the clinic’s first year, it operated from the third week of November 2023 until March 8 of this year.
Suni said nearly 1,600 patients utilized the clinic.
Wait times were generally between 30-45 minutes, much lower than a typical wait time for a person with the same symptoms would generally encounter in the emergency department.
CKHA officials said people can access the clinic if they have cough, cold and flu symptoms; a urinary tract infection; ear ache; rash; a need for a prescription refill; an eye infection; or a general minor complaint.
They encourage those with a family doctor of nurse practitioner to contact them initially and to seek advice. Such advice could include self care
a Meal, Support
Seniors
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at home, making an appointment with your primary-care provider, or heading to the seasonal clinic.
If you opt for self-care at home, visit the clinic if your symptoms are getting worse or not improv-
ing.
The clinic will be open Monday to Friday from Dec. 10 into March of next year, Suni said, with hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Suni said CKHA officials are bracing for the annual January rise in flu and
other respiratory illnesses, including Covid.
“We expect an uptick in seasonal illness in just about every (age) group starting in January,” he said. “Post holidays. It’s normal.”
To help better manage
seasonal illnesses, Suni encourages people to get vaccinated.
Adam Topp, president and CEO of CKHA, said the cycle of seasonal illness now has Covid as part of the annual slate of ailments.
Serving our community hot, nutritious, homestyle meals delivered right to your door for over 50 years!
Find out how you can support call Meals on Wheels 519-351-6325 or visit www.mealsonwheelsck.com 99. Park St. Chatham, at St. Andrew’s Residence
If the thought of several long months of snow and cold has got you down, come to Chatham Resort Retirement Residence for a short stay! Let our benefits cheer you up and make things a little easier this winter!
Community Events
Thursday, December 12, 2024:
• Retired Workers Chapter Meetings are the perfect opportunity to enjoy coffee and baked goods and visit with friends and former fellow workers. Keep up to date with the community, pensions, benefits and info provided from informed leadership and guest speakers. Spouses are welcome. 10:00am at the Unifor Local 127, 405 Riverview Dr., Chatham.
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 3:30-6:30pm. 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.
• Afternoon Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1-4pm, Bring your singing voice/instruments and join us for a great afternoon. Donation welcome.
• Noon Hour of Concerts of Seasonal Music with Stephanie Van Rooyen and Bill Sluys. 12:15-1:00pm at Holy Trinity St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 81 Selkirk St. (at Victoria), Chatham. Come and relax from the bustle of the season and listen to seasonal music with local Chatham Musicians. Bring your lunch, listen, come and go as you wish. Free admission.
• 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.
Friday, December 13, 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 Pork Roast or Fish & Chips, $13.00. Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00pm. Everyone Welcome.
• Delicious Merlickin Pork Chops with all the fixings including dessert $16.50 all in. Call 519-689-4884 to book your meal. Take outs also available at the Merlin Legion, 2 Stanley St. 519-689-4884.
• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St is a Breaded Pork Chop dinner with potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $13 and pickups $14. All meals are served at 6pm. Please call 519-352-8291 to order. Everyone welcome.
Saturday, December 14, 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. Line Dancing lessons from 10:00am-12 noon There will be meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. The kitchen is open from 3:00pm–6:00pm. Come check out our menu. Entertainment by Unity Station from 4:30-9:30. Everyone Welcome.
• You’re invited to “Just Before Christmas,” an entertainment by Clair Culliford of The Veranda Presents at Art & Heirloom Shoppe, 137 King St W. in downtown Chatham. Pop in between Noon and 2pm for a selection of holiday treats: Christmas poems, hot apple cider, and more.
Sunday, December 15, 2024:
• Calling all Veterans. The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham will be hosting a Buddy Check for all Veterans from 10:00am–12:00pm. Come enjoy a coffee and talk to other Veterans. This venue is for Veterans Only.
• The Jubilee Chorus invites you to join them in celebrating the birth of Jesus through their annual Festival of Lessons and Carols: “How Great Our Joy”. Let them usher in your Christmas season with the joy-filled sounds of both new and renewed carols led by this passionate 50-voice choir. Enjoy this free concert on December 15, 7:00pm at Grace Christian Reformed Church (255 Tweedsmuir Ave W). A freewill offering will be received in support of the Chatham Women’s Shelter. A beautiful evening of choral music awaits you, bring a friend or two!
• Jamboree at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 1-5pm, $5. Come and enjoy the music of Hired Hand and others. A dinner will follow afterwards.
Monday, December 16, 2024:
• Heart Buddies – A monthly get together. A chance to talk and share your experiences of Heart Surgery, Heart Issues, matters of the Heart. For more info call 519-354-0070 or visit www.thamesviewfht.ca.
• Enjoy a friendly game of Euchre, 1 P.M. St. Clair Estates, 15 Dunkirk Chatham. $3.00 per person. Everyone Welcome.
Tuesday, December 17, 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, December 18, 2024:
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. 330-630pm. 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.
• Games Night at Bill’s Place, 48 Centre Street with CK Pride at 630pm. You are welcome to bring a game to see if others want to play it or play what we have. Light refreshments / snacks potluck.
• Chatham-Kent Coin Club meeting at the Active Lifestyle Center (7pm – 8pm), 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham. New Members and guests welcomed. Come to a meeting and meet others with similar interests. We have members that collect Canadian, USA, and World coins and paper money. Gain knowledge and trends of the hobby For more info contact President Paul Robb (probb1@cogeco.ca) (289-228-2817).
• 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.
• The Mary Webb Centre for the Arts will be host to Bedouin Soundclash at 8pm. This Canadian indie rock and reggae royalty took a creative hiatus after climbing to the pinnacle of the Canadian music. They are now back better than ever. Their career saw them celebrated at home and abroad with several Juno Awards. Tickets $55 in advance, $60 at the door, taxes in. Licensed Bar, art gallery and concert hall open at 7pm. More info for re tickets at marywebbcentre.ca.
Thursday, December 19, 2024:
• Afternoon Jamboree at the Merlin Legion from 1-4pm, Bring your singing voice/instruments and join us for a great afternoon. Donation welcome.
• Noon Hour of Concerts of Seasonal Music with Nancy Tapley and Donald Poole. 12:151:00pm at Holy Trinity St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 81 Selkirk St. (at Victoria), Chatham. Come and relax from the bustle of the season and listen to seasonal music with local Chatham Musicians. Bring. your lunch, listen, come and go as you wish. Free admission.
• Come join us at The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00 a.m.– 9:30 p.m. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Send your events to bruce@chathamvoice.com or michelle@chathamvoice.com
Fun Stuff
3. Overly studious person
4. They protect your valuables
5. The Volunteer State
6. Non-hydraulic cement
7. Horse mackerel
8. Jackson and Diddley are two
9. Splendid displays
10. Mountain in NE Greece
11. A daughter or your brother or sister
12. German surname
14. Having more than one husband at a time
CLUES ACROSS
1. Thou __ do it
6. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.)
9. Brainstem part 13. Town in New York state
14. Little (Spanish) 15. Continent 16. Retch 17. Short-billed rails
18. Small period of time (abbr.)
19. Confused
21. A team needs one 22. Woman in ancient times
23. Republican Party 24. Spanish be 25. “The Godfather” character Johnny 28. Not around 29. City in Zambia 31. A type of beginning 33. Numb
36. Gurus
38. Small, gray-headed crow
39. Vehicle type
41. Disorders
44. One point east of southeast
45. Indian soldier
46. Tree type
48. Midway between south and southeast 49. It cools your home
51. Corn comes on it
52. Ship’s deck
54. A way to bake
56. Improvised 60. Butterfly genus
61. Baseball fields have them
62. Designated space 63. Discharge 64. Two of something 65. Once more 66. Part of your face 67. Tax collector
68. Cassia tree CLUES DOWN 1. One-time Aaron Rodgers target
2. Wings
17. Romanian city
20. Energy
21. Makes less hot
23. Gas diffusion electrode
25. Former CIA
26. Set an example for others
27. Support of a particular person
29. One from the Big Apple
30. Mountain range
32. Violate the sanctity of something
34. Supervises flying
35. Talks
37. Persian male given name
40. Born of
42. Forcibly take one’s possessions
43. Discounts
47. Knockouts
49. Posh Colorado destination
50. Form of therapy
52. British rock band
53. Type of virus (abbr.)
55. The U. of Miami mascot is one
56. Volcanic crater
57. Middle Eastern nation
58. Sinn __, Irish organization
59. Ethiopian lake
61. Bits per inch (abbr.)
65. Equally
Keeping Craig’s memory alive
By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative
The Ridgetown Independent
Craig Spence made an impact on a lot of lives during his 22 years. His legacy will continue to impact people for many years to come. His family and many hockey friends are keeping his memory alive with the Craig Spence Foundation, which aims to assist
financially needy youth in athletics and education.
Spence lost his life in a Highway 401 accident near London on April 16, a month after his junior career ended, as he spent his final two seasons with the Blenheim Blades.
The Blades honoured their captain by retiring his No. 10 on Nov. 16 in a pre-game ceremony.
Spence is the son of
Ridgetown natives Tracey Secord (partner Shadd Smith) and Brendon Spence (partner Janee O’Donohue) and the grandson of Gerald and Heather Secord and Benny and Ruth Ann Spence, all of Ridgetown. He is also survived by siblings Grant and Ashlynn and his girlfriend, Halle Machado.
Continued on page 22
Contributed image
The Spence family, which has roots in Ridgetown, has set up the Craig Spence Foundation in honour of former Blenheim Blades player Craig Spence, who was killed earlier this year in a car accident.
OBITUARIES
Gloria Veenstra
85, Wednesday, November 27, 2024 Life Transitions
Tracey Jeffs - Allman
Saturday, November 30, 2024 Life Transitions
Kelsey Ainsworth-Lowe
Tuesday, December 3, 2024 Life Transitions
Reginald Gore
94, Tuesday, December 3, 2024 Life Transitions
Romain Lannoo
88, Tuesday, December 3, 2024 Life Transitions
Richard “Rick” Heikamp
56, Wednesday, November 27, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home
Larry Pettinger
88, Tuesday, December 3, 2024 Nicholls Funeral Home
Jack Scoyne
91, Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Andrew R. Jarecsni
76, Thursday, November 28, 2024
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Guerino Basaneze
87, Friday, November 29, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Mary Prada-Paterack
94, Monday, December 2, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Albert “Al” Kuhn
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Betty Kimball
95, Saturday, November 30, 2024
Kendrick Funeral Home
Georgette Paula Vanpraet
87, Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Badder Funeral Home
Mickey Smith
92, Saturday, November 30, 2024
Badder Funeral Home
Patricia Viola Walker
78, Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Badder Funeral Home
Vera Florence Moulton
92, Monday, December 2, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Judy Minshall
72, Monday, December 2, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Trish Johnston
65, Thursday, November 28, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Louise Leonie Plaquet
87, Friday, November 29, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Helen Campbell
88, Monday, December 2, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Maryke James
94, Tuesday, December 3, 2024
McKinlay Funeral Home
Former Blade’s legacy lives on
Continued from page 21
Grant Spence said there are two main objectives with the Foundation in his younger
brother’s honour.
“One is keeping his name relevant; my biggest goal is making sure no one forgets him,” Grant said. “And second, giving every kid (in Chatham-Kent) the opportunity Craig and I both had as kids. Our parents gave us the opportunity to basically do anything we wanted, especially when it came to sports.”
After Craig’s death, family friend Chris McCarthy started a GoFundMe account to help with the funeral expenses. The fund began with a goal of $10,000. In less than four hours, more than $30,000 was raised.
The final tally was close to $80,000.
“I talked to my parents, and we decided we wanted to do something instead of just us taking the money,” Grant said. “That’s how the Craig Spence Foundation started.”
The Foundation has already paid complete registration for two underprivileged kids to play with the Chatham-Kent’ AAA’ Cyclones.
“Both were on payment plans of $20 bi-weekly; we covered those registrations fully,” Grant said.
“With the increased costs for everything in hockey, we don’t want these kids giving up because of financial reasons,” father Brendon Spence said. “We want to be there to support them, whether it’s a stick or a set of shin pads. We don’t want players to miss out because the costs are so incredibly high.”
The Foundation is hosting free power skating sessions on Dec. 23 and 27 at Chatham Memorial Arena for local players of all skill levels. Girls and boys ages 6-7 are on the ice at 12:30 p.m.; ages 8-9 at 1 p.m.; ages 10-11 at 1:40 p.m. and ages 12-13 at 2:10 p.m. both days. Full equipment is required, and all participants will receive a No. 10 Spence jersey. Registration is open on the Foundation’s Instagram page.
Grant Spence also said the Foundation wants to extend support into education for struggling students by paying for tutors.
“We don’t want to focus all on sports; we want to get into the academics, too,” Grant said. “My brother had a learning disability, so we want to give back to other kids that have a learning disability.”
Obituary
Romain Victor Lannoo passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, December 3, 2024. Born in Roeselare, Belgium 88 years ago, son of the late Florence and Clements Lannoo. Predeceased by his loving wife Marcella (2023). Beloved father of Richard (Annette), and Debra Cartier. Proud grandpa of Matthew (Alexis), Michael (the late Lindsey), Joseph, Michelle, and Danielle (Stephen). Great-grandfather of Hayden and Jadyn. Romain is also survived by his brother Oscar Lannoo (Cheryl) of Nanaimo, British Columbia, and is predeceased by his sister Annie Myers. The family would like to give special thanks to the staff of Chatham Kent Health Alliance third floor, especially nurses Vanessa and Amy for their excellent care. As per his wishes, cremation has taken place and will be followed by a private family funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations in Romain’s memory may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada. Arrangements entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service Inc.
Andrew R. Jarecsni
June 24, 1948 – November 28, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, brother-in-law and uncle on Thursday November 28, 2024 at the Chatham-Kent Hospice, at the age of 76 years. He was born in Chatham Ontario, son of the late Andrew A. Jarecsni and the former Anna Eros. He is survived by his wife, Julia (Walsh) of Merlin and his two daughters Sarah and husband Devon Ronson of Kilworth and Rebecca and husband Brandon Hubbard of London. He leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Landon and Arlee Ronson and Kaiden, Brody and Hudson Hubbard. Also surviving are his siblings Dr. Emil Jarecsni (Roberta) of Leamington, Dr. Monica Dahl (late Dr. Ed Dahl) of Courtney BC, Lillian Graham (Ron) of Coquitlam BC, Goldie Coombs (Randy) of Grimsby, and Ted Jarecsni (Cheryl) of Chatham as well as his sisters in law Mary and husband Ron Ryan of St. Columban, Maria (late Michael) Walsh of Stratford, the late Lucy Walsh (Late Michael Northcote), Helen and her husband Dennis Muir of Stratford and brother in law Joseph (Late Lynn) of Toronto. He was dear “Unc” to several nieces and nephews. Andrew had many careers during his lifetime including loans supervisor at Victoria and Grey Trust, farmer in the Merlin area, volunteer firefighter for several years with the South Raleigh Fire Department and over 20 years as custodian at several schools served by the St. Clair Separate School Board, where he was affectionately known as “Mr. J.” to staff and students. Friends and family joined together at the Blenheim Community Funeral Home, 60 Stanley Street, Blenheim, Ontario on Tuesday December 3, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8 pm. The funeral mass was celebrated at St. Patrick’s Church and Shrine, 5773 Tenth Line, Merlin, Ontario at 11 am on Wednesday December 4, 2024. Fr. Anthony Kamalathasan C.R. was the celebrant. Interment immediately followed in the church cemetery. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice, or St. Patrick’s Church and Shrine, Merlin.
Announcement
Classifieds
Chatham Baptist Chapel. Sunday Services 11am & 7pm. 330 Richmond St., Unit 105. Uses KJV - All are welcome. www.chathambaptistchapel.com.
CHATHAM HAS A NEW CHURCH!
Guitar Lessons. 519-917-2339
William “Bill” Howe Oct. 23, 1935 - Sept. 15, 2024
In Memoriam
For Sale
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411
John Wiebenga September 10, 2023
217 Adelaide St. S., Chatham ON 3.5 Bedrooms, 2 bathroom, newly renovated, wheelchair accessible. $2095 + utilities. Call: 289-600-1420.
Will pay cash for Elvis DVDs. Phone 519-917-339 Lessons For Rent
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894. Wanted
We met in 1956, We married December 13, 1958. The face I love is now laid low, His loving voice is still. The hand so often clasped in mine, Lies now in death’s cold chill. I often sit and think of him When I am all alone. For memory is the only thing that grief can call its own. Loveandmissyou,Ruth.
Wanted to rent or buy 1 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-352-5414 or 226-627-5414.
Sadly, this will be our second Christmas without you. In our minds, we talk to you and miss you each and every day. God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts. With our love always, Grace, Kevin, Melissa, Charlie, Emma, Rae Lynn
CONSOLIDATE DEBTS
Difficult Situations Accepted
$50,000 for $283.50/mth
$100,000 for $567.00/mth
$150,000 for $850.50/mth
$200,000 for $1134.00/mth
$250,000 for $1417.50/mth
MORTGAGES / LOANS
Meaningful ways to keep Christ in your Christmas
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 (KJV)
1. Give God one very special gift just from you to him - Maybe your gift to God will be to forgive someone you’ve needed to forgive for a long time. Perhaps your gift will be to commit to spending time with God daily. Or maybe there is something God has asked you to give up. Make this your most important gift of the season.
2. Set aside a special time to read the Christmas story in Luke 1:5-56 through 2:1-20. - Consider reading this account with your family and discussing it.
3. Set up a Nativity scene in your home.
4. Give a surprise gift of service to each member of your family. Jesus taught us to serve by washing the disciples feet. He also taught us that it is “more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 (NIV)- Giving an unexpected gift of service to members of your family demonstrates Christ-like love and service. You might consider giving a back rub to your spouse, running an errand for your sibling, or cleaning out a closet for your mother. Make it personal and meaningful and watch the blessings multiply.
Ursuline Sisters of Chatham
our gifts at Christmas be loving service for the common good of all!
