The Chatham Voice, Jan. 19, 2023

Funds sought to support water testing

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Ten years have passed since Christine Burke began her fight for clean well water.

But while frustrated, she’s far from done. In partnership with the Wallaceburg Area Wind Concerns group, Burke has started a GoFundMe campaign to pay for sediment testing in affected wells.

Launched Jan. 4, the GoFundMe effort passed the halfway mark towards its $12,000 goal after only three days, with one donor committing $5,000.

“This is for the people that are financially burdened,” Burke said of the fundraiser, as the testing costs about $1,500 per well. The initial campaign will cover the cost to test six or seven wells in late

January.

Burke said a certified hydrologist will draw the samples, maintaining the chain of custody, and ship them to RTI Laboratories in Livonia, Mich.

Burke said RTI’s technology is state-of-the-art. It’s the same company that conducted testing in the Flint water crisis.

According to Burke, the decision to undertake further testing is going forward based on a recommendation from local geologist Keith Benn. The Port Lambton resident sat on the expert panel of an all-hazard investigation carried out by the provincial government.

The probe came about following an election promise made by Premier Doug Ford to conduct a health hazard study of brown and black water from wells said to be af-

fected by the construction and operation of wind turbines in North Kent.

However, the province downgraded the investigation to an all-hazard study and excluded property owners in Dover, who like their counterparts in Chatham Township, had dark sediment fouling their wells.

In a report released last November, Benn said the results of the all-hazard study fell short, as some of the solid particles found in the North Kent area wells had elevated levels of heavy metals, including arsenic, cadmium, lead and nickel.

Benn said bioaccessibility testing needs to be carried out on the wells to determine if the elevated concentrations of heavy metals pose a health hazard concern.

Continued on page 3

Sitting on the dock of the bay

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice These Canada geese decided to take a break from swimming and were spotted lazing on a dock near Port Lambton recently. They may have been waiting for the sun to come out.

C-K rated as top growth city

Chatham experienced most growth in 2022 in Canada: U-Haul says

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Chatham is the top growth city in the nation, according to the rental company U-Haul, and Chatham-Kent’s mayor couldn’t be more pleased.

The rating comes from U-Haul’s growth index, which analyzes customer moves during 2022.

People arriving in Chatham in one-way U-Haul trucks fell 12 per cent from 2021. However, departures dropped by more

than 23 per cent as overall moving traffic decreased in 2022. That translates to net gains for Chatham. Due to fewer people leaving the area, Chatham netted a larger percentage of arrivals to climb 12 spots from its No. 13 growth ranking in 2021.

Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff said the information indicates Chatham and Chatham-Kent are desired places to live.

“This is very exciting. We knew this was a hot spot for people wanting to come here for a lot of reasons,” he said. “Cost of living, job opportunities, the weather, our people, the location –those are a few of the points that have people coming here.”

Canniff said C-K has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the province.

For people who live in a larger urban area, taking a look at Chatham quickly shows them how much farther their money could go here.

“For cost of living, when you compare us to Toronto, there’s a huge difference. With a lot of professions, you can basically make the same wage here as you would

in Toronto,” he said. “You can find a place that’s affordable and is really close to your work. Then there’s the commute time in Toronto –where it’s often at least an hour either way.”

Canniff said the community support here is unparalleled.

“A key piece is the people. When I talk to people who just moved here, they talk about how wonderful the people are,” he said.

The pre-Christmas blizzard that left hundreds of people stranded in Chatham-Kent only underlined matters.

“I got about three or four thank-you notes from people from Toronto and beyond who were here and were rescued from the storm,” he said. “They talk about how amazing Chatham-Kent was as far as people going out of their way to help.

“If you are born and raised here, you may not realize it. But the way it is in Chatham-Kent – we help people. This is a great place to live.”

Add the proximity to the Great Lakes, and the fact larger urban centres are only an hour away if their entertainment entices you, and C-K has a lot to

offer, Cannif said.

Stuart McFadden, director of Chatham-Kent Economic Development, said it’s not only a great time to move to C-K, but also invest here.

“We’ve positioned ourselves as an amazing place to invest; as a place where growing a business, a family, and a life are more than attainable,” he said. “Our cost of doing business is lower, our geographic location is ideal, and our workforce is growing stronger every day.”

According to U-Haul, do-ityourself movers arriving in Chatham accounted for 57 per cent of all one-way U-Haul truck traffic in and out of the city during 2022 (compared to 43 per cent of departures).

“I think people are moving to the Chatham-Kent area because it’s economical to live,” said David Anstett, U-Haul Company of Western Ontario president, echoing Canniff’s comments. “There are about 30 small communities in this region that seem to be attracting record residents. People like to be on the water, they like to retire here with a calm, relaxed environment, and they like to get out of the bigger cities and live in cottage country.”

Trois Rivieres, Sarnia, Quebec City and Kelowna round out the top five Canadian growth cities of 2022.

Eleven of the top 25 growth cities are in Ontario.

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Jeanine Foulon

Peter Zubyk

Darrin Canniff

Stuart McFadden

Samples to head to Michigan

from page 1

The all-hazard study had other shortfalls, Burke said, noting it excluded affected well owners in the Dover area and only focused on property owners in the vicinity of the North Kent Wind Farm.

Burke lives in the area of the 55-turbine East Lake St. Clair Wind Farm on Bay Line. Construction of the wind farm began in 2012 and it became fully operational in 2014.

Burke said she and her husband Terry began to experience problems their well in 2013. However, they thought they were the only ones with the problem.

Their water – once pure and crystal clear for nearly a century – turned dirty. Burke said her dishwasher and washing machine broke down at the same time, unable to handle the sediment in the water and the family’s laundry began to have dark splotches.

At first, the Burkes didn’t associate the turbines with their water problems. The couple replaced their water line

and all their plumbing before discovering others in the area were experiencing similar problems with their wells.

“We did everything under the sun,” Burke said. “Terry and I were just in shock.”

Today, the Burkes have a complex filtering system on their well. However, the family still has no idea how the heavy metals in the water are affecting their health.

Burke, who can see 32 turbines from the end of her driveway, said she thinks there are about 20 wells affected by the East Lake St. Clair project, but she can’t be sure as some of the property owners are bound by gag orders.

Wallaceburg Area Wind Concerns, formed to fight the construction of the Otter Creek Wind Farm – which they did successfully – is standing strong with the Dover-area well owners.

“The all-hazard study investigation completed by the province was incomplete,” said executive member Denise Shephard, noting the findings indicate a significant de-

terioration of water quality within the footprint of the North Kent Wind Farm between 2017 and 2021.

Shephard, who believes the property owners in Dover deserve to have their wells tested, is asking for the public’s sup-

port to fund the well testing costs.

The link to the fundraiser can be found on the WAWC Facebook page.

Donations can also be mailed to Wallaceburg Area Wind Concerns, 294 East River Rd., Wallaceburg, ON N8A 4L2.

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Christine Burke shows off sediment in water taken from her well on Bay Line near Mitchell’s Bay. Burke, along with the Wallaceburg Area Wind Concerns group, has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help local residents pay to test the sediment in their wells.

Bird count reveals rare sighting

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Rare in Chatham-Kent, the mystical barn owl was among the feathered creatures spotted during the annual Christmas Bird Count held across Canada.

According to Keith Burk, who heads up the Rondeau Provincial Park/Blenheim count, it’s only the second time the pale winged predator has been observed since the local count began.

Burk said the bird was sighted between Ridgetown and Rondeau.

“It’s the first one recorded since 1973 and only the second time one has ever been recorded in the count’s history,” Burk said, noting the bird’s numbers have decreased locally as barns and old buildings are becoming “few and far between.”

They also like to nest in old hollow trees, Burk said, which is another aspect of the owl’s habitat in decline.

“Plus, they usually like to go south,” he added, noting lo-

cal birders have been hearing about the owl for a while, but it’s the first time they were able to catch up with it.

The barn owl is but one of 112 different species that were spotted during the count held Dec. 18, putting the Rondeau/ Blenheim tally at the top of the charts in Ontario for having the highest number of bird species in the entire province for the second year running.

“It gives us bragging rights for another year,” the avid birder joked.

The Rondeau/Blenheim count edged out other area Christmas Bird Counts. A total of 98 species were observed at Point Pelee; 76 were recorded in the St. Clair National Wildlife Area at the mouth of the Thames River, 81 species were recorded in the Wallaceburg count, and 53 were tallied at Skunk’s Misery near Bothwell. Burk said there were

other rare birds sighted including the western sandpiper and the spotted sandpiper.

“For some reason they stuck around this year,” he said.

Of the 112 species observed

in South Kent, other new records were set. Birders sighted 171 mute swans, 3,606 ruddy ducks and 12,012 redhead ducks, Started in 1900, the Christmas Bird Count is North America’s longest-running citizen science project as volunteers record bird sightings with more than 2,000 locations across the Western Hemisphere. The information collected forms one of the world’s largest sets of wildlife survey data, allowing the scientific community to assess population trends and the distributions of birds.

The circle counts take place on a date between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5, with sightings three days prior and three days after allowed in the record. Volunteers are divided into groups and watch for birds in a specific circular area over the course of a day.

Herman Giethoorn/Special to The Chatham Voice The elusive barn owl was among the species sighted during the recent Rondeau/Blenheim Christmas Bird Count. This picture of the rare bird was taken at the Canadian Raptor Conservancy in 2017.

THEN

In 1948 our grandfather Frances Denomy started his business. Our father Jude worked alongside him for 40 years. Now we, Chris and Byron Denomy are happy to be the 3rd generation here at Denomy’s AV Unlimited. We serve Chatham-Kent with competitive pricing and friendly, knowledgeable quality service. Delivery is also available throughout Chatham-Kent.

When you buy from us, you are supporting your local business community. Stop in to see what’s new, these past 75 years. See ballot in this paper: You could win a 75” TV. 40 Grand Avenue East Chatham 519-352-2120

Frances DenomyJude DenomyChris DenomyByron Denomy

1948 RCA

Opinion

Water woes

It’s quite possible that by the time you read this, the GoFundMe effort to help local residents pay for having their well water tested will be complete.

Wallaceburg Area Wind Concerns, led by Christine Burke, set the funding threshold at $12,000. After just three days, they’d reached the halfway point.

The cash will be utilized to get independent water samples into the hands of RTI Labs out of Michigan, the same firm that did the testing for the Flint, Mich. water crisis.

Folks in North Kent aren’t sold on handing samples over to whomever the provincial government would choose for analyzing their well water. In the past, the Ford government has utilized companies that have worked extensively with the wind farm companies – the very firms many people with sediment-choked wells allege are causing the problems to their well water in the first place.

The funds raised will allow the testing of perhaps eight wells at most.

It’s a starting point, for sure, as the residents have spent thousands of dollars on filtration systems and having water trucked into their properties. These people attest they had perfectly fine wells prior to the wind farms pile driving into the

Kettle Point black shale to erect the turbines. They also say the operation of the turbines send vibrations into the black shale, stirring up sediment in the aquifer, and clogging up their wells.

It’s not just the sediment that is concerning, but also the potential presence of heavy metals, including arsenic, cadmium, lead and nickel.

And that is the main worry over health risk. Keith Benn, who sat on the expert provincial panel that oversaw the all-hazard investigation the province eventually had done in the area, has repeatedly stressed the investigation fell far short of what these people need.

Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP

Monte McNaughton has stressed that everyone impacted should get their water tested.

But it is all about trust at this point.

The majority of the citizens just don’t trust the government or whomever the government selects to conduct the testing.

Enter RTI.

But that independent testing won’t come cheap. However, at least the participants will be confident the testing will be done with impartiality.

By spring, property owners hope to begin to see some answers.

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Laundromat issues

Editor: There is arrogance and rudeness at the laundromats which people do not realize occurs. I am speaking based on several months of personal observation and experience.

It does not matter which laundromat I use, the same thing occurs. Every week the same people go to the laundromat with several baskets full of clothes. These are not different clothes weekly but the exact same load of laundry each time. I have lost count of how many times I have seen the same striped shirt and black shorts.

These people must change clothing every half hour because they have more clothes than famed flamboyant late great pianist Liber ance had. He was well known for completely changing clothes after every piece of music he played and never wore the same clothes twice.

I go to the laundromat and use one washer and one dryer compared to those people who use four or more washers and the same number of dryers. I am sure that my clothes are just as clean as those folks who must

have four machines of each type even if they only put one or two pieces of clothing in one washer and later dryer.

Some people also have to have a machine to wash the clothes of each member of the family as if someone had leprosy. Hopefully those arrogant people see themselves in this letter and learn to use fewer machines as they deprive other folks of a washer and dryer and leave the laundromat in a huff.

Wally Schubert Chatham-Kent

Feline pals want a home

Editor: A kitten and cat are the best pick me up you can have when you might feel a little under the weather. Always a little happy face ready to make you feel better and always a little stunt to impress you or show off.

The cost is very small, and cats will mostly look after themselves.

Right now, your new buddy is waiting for you at the Pet and Wildlife Rescue shelter in Chatham, which has

lots of surplus babies from a COVID boom, ready for your home and a name only you can give.

Wayne Robertson Chatham

Royal LePage Peifer would like to welcome Tori Winters to our Sales Team!

I am a fresh face to the real estate business, but am bringing all my excitement and passion into this journey to build a career in helping those in the communities around me achieve all their homeowner dreams! As a proud member of the Royal Lepage Peifer Realty family, I carry the values of hard work, integrity, and outstanding client service into everything I do.  Aside from working in Real Estate, I am a small town girl who enjoys spending time with friends and family and serving at my local church as a Youth Group leader and guitarist on a worship team. I currently live outside of Dresden where my family moved after living in Ridgetown for 15 years. Tori can be reached at 226-881-0334 or toriwinters@royallepage.ca.

519-355-8189

Ghassan Najjar** 519-355-8668

Heather Najjar** 519-355-8666

Cass Opiela* 519-355-7804

Chris Papple* 519-350-1402

Brian Peifer** 519-436-2669

Elizabeth Peifer* 519-436-8959

Patrick Pinsonneault** 519-360-0141

Chris Polley* 905-903-0505

Katherine Rankin* 226-542-2964

Deborah Rhodes* 519-401-5470

David Smith* 519-350-1615

Michael Smyth* 519-784-5470

Chris Spafford* 519-917-2635

Kate Stenton* 519-436-8377

Carson Warrener* 519-809-2856

Cindy Weaver** 519-360-0628

Ashley Wilton* 519-437-7564

Elliot Wilton* 519-358-8755

Penny Wilton** 519-360-0315

Tori Winters* 226-881-0334

Lisa Zimmer* 519-365-7325

Home sales kept tumbling in December

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

After a roller coaster real estate ride in 2022, the new president of the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors looks forward to some increased stability in the market this year.

Matt Bechard, broker of

record for Match Realty, described 2022 as “super volatile.” The year ended with a December that saw 76 units sell, marking a steep decline of more than 42 per cent in sales from the same month of 2021.

Those sales were 12.6 per cent below the five-year

average and just slightly below par for the 10-year average for the month of December.

That final statistic is telling, Bechard said.

Realtors and sellers are still adjusting to the different sales pace.

News

More homes for sale

Continued from page 8

“In the past, the average time of sale was over a month. And then people got accustomed to five days on the market,” Bechard said.

The housing market in Chatham-Kent heated up during the pandemic. Prices spiralled upwards and homes sold in days, often above asking price and with bidding competition.

“Lots of speculators entered the market with cash and were looking for places to put their money,” Bechard said.

He anticipates a better year in 2023.

“It’s a balanced market. There is a lot more inven-

tory than we were used to seeing in recent years. Buyers can take more time and throw in conditions,” he said.

Inventory is rising for two reasons: fewer homes are selling and more properties are coming on the market. The number of new listings saw a gain of 24.4 per cent from December 2021. There were 107 new residential listings in December 2022. This was the largest number of new listings added in the month of December in more than a decade.

With that, new listings were 22.1 per cent above the five-year average and 34.8 per cent above the 10-year average for the

month of December.

Bechard said that while sales have slowed overall, houses priced around $400,000 and under continue to sell fairly quickly.

“In the under $400,000 range, affordability wise, they were still moving pretty well. We’re seeing the upper range and some of the newer builds are taking a little longer than they were to sell,” he said.

Housing prices ended the year off by about 12 per cent from the same period in 2021. The average price of homes sold in December 2022 was $384,644.

However, the warm start to 2022 meant the annual average price was $459,950, up by 9.6 per cent from all of 2021.

On an annual basis, home sales totalled 1,347 units over the course of 2022.

This was a substantial decline of 26.6 per cent from the same period in 2021. Bechard said there are prospective buyers out there who are not just looking at homes, but also at interest rates.

“In my opinion, a lot of folks are on the sidelines waiting to see what the Bank of Canada will do

with rates moving forward,” he said. “If you had chosen a variable rate, your payments have gone up significantly. I think we will hopefully see a more normal market moving forward.”

That ‘more normal market’ bodes well for firsttime homebuyers, Bechard said, as will decreased vol-

atility.

“The momentum heading into 2023 looks promising, with sales activity still moving up steadily and new listings coming onto the market at very supportive levels. A few more months of this and we can almost call it a return to a more normal market,” he said.

Matt Bechard

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July 23 Victor Huckle 0607 $20

July 24 Carrie Formosa 0131 $20

July 25 Paul Vassallo 1315 Mamma Maria’s GC

July 26 Sam Marentette 1597 $20

July 27 Brad Clackett 0566 Betty Brite GC

July 28 Debbie Taylor + Gary St. Jean 1445 $20

July 29 Jack Kemp 1974 MC Business Solutions GC

July 30 Lucille Robertson 0084 $20

July 31 Ruth Pilbeam 0345 $100

Aug. 1 Dana Gardiner 1258 $200 Aug. 2 Marilyn Field 0100 $20

Aug. 3 Nancy Tuttens 0819 $20

Aug. 4 Cindy Hogg 1104 $20

Aug. 5 Betty Trudell 0243 $50

Aug. 6 Megan Marchand 0128 Bowlerama Family Pass Aug. 7 Melissa Harrigan 0209 $20 Aug. 8 Yvette Caron 1289 Pie Zano’s GC Aug. 9 Margaret Pisquem 0870 $20 Aug. 10 Carol Kerwin 1691 $20 Aug. 11 Kerry Doran 1234 Rubies GC Aug. 12 Patrick McCullough 1054 Tupperware Aug. 13 Barbara Hill 0043 $20 Aug. 14 Cheri + Ernie Jenkins 1652 $20 Aug. 15 Ethan Misik 0708 $100 Aug. 16 Shannon D 1584 $20 Aug. 17 Dave Koldyk 1750 $20 Aug. 18 JoAnn Van Praet 1992 $20 Aug. 19 Jack Kemp 1974 Community Living Gift Pack Aug. 20 Donna Hurst 1507 $20 Aug. 21 Bill + Angie Presant 1915 Tupperware Aug. 22 Bernice Chartrand 0086 $20 Aug. 23 Heather Robertson 0081 Imperial Eyewear Sunglasses Aug. 24 Wendy Ritchie 1406 $20 Aug. 25 Hilde Kennedy 0661 $20 Aug. 26 Yvette Foster 0663 $50 Aug. 27 Brittany Mitchinson 1757 $20 Aug. 28 Wendy Mardling 0259 $20 Aug. 29 Liz Pace 0149 $20 Aug. 30 Pat Brown 1544 $20 Aug. 31 Jen Lemieux 0373 Betty Brite GC Sept. 1 Robert Dietrich 0993 $20 Sept. 2 Jamie McGrail 0640 $50 Sept. 3 Turn Around Collectibles 0702 $20 Sept. 4 Christine Thompson 1391 $20 Sept. 5 Derek Ellis 1519 $100 Sept. 6 Theresa Little 0449 $20 Sept. 7 Bonnie Inns 1840 Sweet C’s GC Sept. 8 Judy Flaglor 0041 $20 Sept. 9 Darlene Chauvin 1952 Tupperware Sept. 10 Lauri Ryan 0297 $20 Sept. 11 Shelly Delyzer 0578 $20 Sept. 12 Debbie Dewar 1410 Pie Zano’s GC Sept. 13 Darlene + John Rylett 1158 $20 Sept. 14 Leslie Teetzel 0676 $20 Sept. 15 Sam Fougere 0906 $20 Sept. 16 Shari Faryniuk 1906 Denomy’s Wireless Earbuds Sept. 17 Adam Gold 0773 $20 Sept. 18 Mark Davis 1797 Tupperware Sept. 19 Gary Guyitt 0932 $20 Sept. 20 Ashley Parkins 1286 $30 Sept. 21 Jessie Cantin 0476 $20 Sept. 22 Elgie LaBatte 1223 $20 Sept. 23 Margaret Longland 0603 Community Living Gift Pack Sept. 24 Holly Malynyk 0648 $20 Sept. 25 Tyler Cogghe 1134 Bowlerama Family Pass Sept. 26 Lisa Hutton 1433 $20 Sept. 27 Ken Mailloux 1542 $20 Sept. 28 Elizabeth Myles 0061 Betty Brite GC Sept. 29 Barbara Hill 0364 $20 Sept. 30 Hope Faas-Mason 0690 MC Business Solutions GC

Date Name Tic# Prize Oct. 1 Joanne Elvidge 1971 Bowlerama Family Pass Oct. 2 Dorothy & Garry Calaiezzi 0171 $20 Oct. 3 Kimberly Sheeler 1473 Pie Zano’s GC Oct. 4 Kim Goyette 0292 $20 Oct. 5 Clarisse Gibbons 1959 $20 Oct. 6 Dianne Matthew 0568 Rubies GC Oct. 7 Angel Legary 0325 Tupperware Oct. 8 Sherry Besaleare 0757 $20 Oct. 9 Darlene Chauvin 1952 $20 Oct. 10 Kelly Kemp 0073 $200 Oct. 11 Tammy Rudorfer 0201 $20 Oct. 12 Kate Radamaker 1386 Mamma Maria’s GC Oct. 13 Elaine Heyink 0801 $20 Oct. 14 Dave & Marie St.Pierre 0924 $50 Oct. 15 Terri Bell 1001 $20 Oct. 16 Heather Dewagner 1488 Tupperware Oct. 17 Corey Beaulieu 0977 $20 Oct. 18 Melissa Comiskey 0255 Pizazz Mixed Bouquet Oct. 19 Victoria Ruggiero 0199 $20 Oct. 20 Ross Chesney 1127 $20 Oct. 21 Ruth Faas 1487 Community Living Gift Pack Oct. 22 Louise Jubenville 1831 $20 Oct. 23 Carol Robert 0208 $20 Oct. 24 Ryan Papps 1513 $20 Oct. 25 Dan Glogowski 1071 $20 Oct. 26 Bert & Annie Segeren 1784 Betty Brite GC Oct. 27 Deb McGrail 0639 $20 Oct. 28 Bonnie Mather 1829 $100 Oct. 29 Rob Koldyk 1742 $20 Oct. 30 Chrystal Wilson 1969 $20 Oct. 31 Henry Renders 1179 $200 Nov. 1 Kyle Lozon 0065 $20 Nov. 2 Aimee June 1173 $20

Nov. 3 Gary & Diane Phelps 1265 $20 Nov. 4 Thelma Watts 0938 MC Business Solutions GC Nov. 5 Candice Glass 1951 Bowlerama Family Pass Nov. 6 Mauro Pippo 0835 Tupperware Nov. 7 Marilyn Field 0100 Pie Zano’s GC Nov. 8 Carol Robert 0208 $20 Nov. 9 Evan Gaiswinkler 0724 $20 Nov. 10 Bob & Karlene Bourdeau 1340 $20 Nov. 11 Jessica Rudorfer 1702 $100 Nov. 12 Carrie Young 1466 $20 Nov. 13 Rob Stimpson 0122 Community Living Gift Pack Nov. 14 Tim Hare 0341 $20 Nov. 15 Paul Bechard 1754 $20 Nov. 16 Lori Ellerbeck 0334 Sweet C’s GC Nov. 17 Jason Eskritt 0947 $20 Nov. 18 Catello & Joanne Ruggiero 0198 Tupperware Nov. 19 Betty Morrell 1549 $500 Nov. 20 Randy Liberty 1385 $20 Nov. 21 Ryan Harris 1146 $20 Nov. 22 Jane Fry 0277 $30 Nov. 23 Christine Thompson 1391 $20 Nov. 24 Judy Zhok 0888 $20 Nov. 25 Deanna Guttridge 0508 $50 Nov. 26 Tom McKillop 0349 $20 Nov. 27 Cathy Weldon 0820 $20 Nov. 28 Luke Duplessie 0613 $20 Nov. 29 Mari Lynn Mifflin 0541 $20 Nov. 30 Betty VanHaren 0627 Betty Brite GC Dec. 1 Al & Kim Schilbe 0731 Rubies GC Dec. 2 Linda Knoblauch 0157 $50 Dec. 3 Barry Rumball 1456 Bowlerama Family Pass Dec. 4 Denise Dykemp 1225 $20

Dec. 5 Matteo Deangelis 0553 Pie Zano’s GC Dec. 6 Renee Cadotte 0220 $20 Dec. 7 Francis Durston 0715 $20 Dec. 8 Terry Rose 0995 $20 Dec. 9 Conceta Prizio 0195 Tupperware Dec. 10 Heather Bailey 1843 $20 Dec. 11 Owen Montpetit 1819 $20 Dec. 12 Nathan Chavis 1517 $100 Dec. 13 Dian Haskell 0185 $20

Dec. 14 Brandan Joyce & Emma Konrad 0826 Mamma Maria’s GC Dec. 15 Charlie Atkinson 0688 $20

Dec. 16 Mary Jane Horvath 0858 Community Living Gift Pack Dec. 17 Teresa Kay 1272 $20

Dec. 18 Shelly Duquette 0238 Tupperware Dec. 19 Louise Hawley 1383 $20 Dec. 20 Erin Appleton 1859 $20

Dec. 21 Annie Vandyk 0051 Betty Brite GC

Dec. 22 Luann Guy 0544 $20

Dec. 23 Jim Berry 0918 $50

Dec. 24 Kevin S. 1004 $20

Dec. 25 Dorothy Haines 0957 $1,000

Dec. 26 Doris Szilasy 0777 $20

Dec. 27 David Hopkins 0315 $20

Dec. 28 Betty & Pete Aalbers 0270 $20

Dec. 29 Amanda Woodrow 0918 $20

Dec. 30 Peter Dick 1541 $20 Dec. 31 Glen & Marie Scott 1470 $20

C-K faces proposed 6.35% tax hike

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

As predicted, inflation is hitting Chatham-Kent where it hurts with an initial 6.35-per-cent tax increase proposed for 2023.

Officials stress the lion’s share of the hike is directly related to skyrocketing costs across the board.

“About five per cent of the increase is inflation,” said budget committee chair Brock McGregor prior to the official release of the 2023 draft budget Jan. 11.

“A fairly hefty portion of the proposed increase is based on that inflationary pressure, as well as our continued commit-

ment to increase infrastructure funding,” McGregor told reporters at a media conference.

Based on the average residential assessment in Chatham-Kent, the hike would see a $200 tax increase on next year’s tax bill. The assessment is currently based on the 2016 provincial assessment of $173,000.

The biggest bite of the 6.35-per-cent hike comes from a 3.65-per-cent increase in infrastructure spending with 2.3 per cent of that based on inflation.

Chief Administrative Officer Michael Duben, working on his first budget with Chatham-Kent, said administrators held numerous meetings in

order to provide council with some “leeway” in spending, while continuing to support infrastructure.

“This is not really a year for those like-to haves, this is a year for only the must haves,” Duben said.

“This is where we have landed and now council must make decisions to get down to some lower number while at the same time trying to maintain infrastructure commitments.”

According to chief financial officer Gord Quinton, Chatham-Kent’s situation isn’t unique.

“All municipalities are facing the same infrastructure crunch across Ontario with the lack of funding coming from the

federal and provincial governments,” Quinton explained, adding inflation can be likened to a decrease in purchasing power, with some costs, such as asphalt paving, rising as much as 25 per cent in the past year.

Quinton said the municipality needs to spend an estimated $124-million to maintain its current assets and infrastructure, but Chatham-Kent can only afford to spend about half that amount.

The proposed tax increase isn’t carved in stone. The budget committee will meet later this month to consider public input and deliberate as to how Cha -

tham-Kent’s money can best be spent, shaving costs where they can.

Deliberations are set for Jan. 25, Jan. 26 and Jan. 31. Meetings are held at the Civic Centre.

Online community consultations will also be held Jan. 18 from noon to 1 p.m. and Jan. 19 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Those with questions are invited to submit by e-mail to ckcommunications@chatham-kent. ca or by mail to Budget & Performance Services, Municipality of Chatham-Kent, 315 King St. Chatham, ON N7M 5K8.

Written deputations of no more than three

minutes in length are welcome each evening. They can be submitted to the clerk at ckfps@chatham-kent.ca before noon each day.

Another tool will be used to guide this year’s budget. The municipality’s new budget book software is now online on the municipality’s website providing residents with an easy-to-understand outline of municipal spending.

All meetings will be broadcast live on YourTV, live streamed on the YourTV YouTube channel, as well as being in-person in council chambers.

C-K man wins $1M

A Chatham resident is $1 million richer after his recent lottery win through Lotto 6/49.

Henry Dumouchel won a Lotto 6/49 Gold Ball Draw on Nov. 26.

A retired bus driver, Dumouchel said this was his first major win.

“I play the lottery twice a week. I’ve been playing Lotto 6/49 since the beginning – it’s now officially my favourite game!” he said in a media release.

His initial thought on having a winning ticket was off by a few decimal points.

“I thought I won $1,000 at first. When I gave my ticket to the cashier, she told me it was too many zeroes for it to be a $1,000 win. I pinched myself so many times – I didn’t believe it. I was at a loss for words,” he said.

The father and grandfather said he plans to purchase a new motorcycle and celebrate his win with a family dinner.

“This is a dream come true,” he said.

The winning ticket was purchased at Colonial Variety on King Street in Harrow.

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image Chatham’s Henry Dumouchel shows off his good fortune.

Mental illness affects one in five Canadians and has a profound impact on individuals and families. When people do not feel they belong, when they live in fear of violence or bullying, or if they are worried about how they are going to feed and shelter their families, their mental health is often affected. Anxiety and depression can mean less productivity at work, greater use of alcohol and drugs, and can contribute to the risk of chronic physical disease.

S elf-Care Activity

Music for the Mind set for Feb. 4

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The music returns to The Kent on Feb. 4, and funding to help field mental health programs will flow soon after.

The Music for the Mind concert hits the stage for a special one-night fundraiser at The Kent in Chatham.

After a brief hiatus due to the pandemic and other unforeseen circumstances beyond their control, the Music for the Mind team is overjoyed to return to their original venue for a night of local music and fundraising.

“I’m beyond excited to get the show back on stage,” said Elisha Banks, organizer of the local grassroots fundraiser. “To be back at our home stage after the past couple of years is going to be very special for all of us.”

The evening will feature live and local entertainment from Walkin’ 47, Dirt Country and Big Shiny Toons on the main stage.

To ensure there is no downtime, the Just Us Acoustic Trio will play downstairs at The Kent between sets, with DJ Shawn

L spinning tunes upstairs. There will also be a silent auction table and 50/50 raffle to help power up the fundraiser.

The Smash Burger food truck will also be on site.

Tickets are $25 and are available now by contacting organizers through the Music for the Mind Facebook page at facebook. com/musicforthemindck or by calling 519-437-5254. Tickets need to be purchased in advance; they will not be available at the door.

The fundraiser is a 19plus event.

Banks and the associated Music for the Mind fundraisers have previously raised $91,765 for the CKHA Inpatient Mental Health Unit, plus thousands of dollars-worth of additional supplies were donated to the unit over their three years of operation to ensure the patients had what they needed during their time there.

The concert and linked fundraisers will now support Family Service Kent, with funds directed to child and adult counseling services and the KIDS Team Program for psychological assessments for

children and youth.

Despite some difficult circumstances, Banks and Music for the Mind felt the need to persevere and give back.

“For me and the rest of the Music for the Mind team, fundraising is a work of heart and we do what we do out of a love for this community, a passion for supporting mental

health, and a strong commitment to helping those in need who struggle with mental health right here in Chatham-Kent,” Banks said.

Michael Fry or The Kent, is happy to help Music for the Mind.

“Music for the Mind was our last big public event before COVID

and now it’s going to be our first big public event after COVID,” he said. “We’re looking forward to it. It’s an event people are getting behind.”

Fry said Banks’ passion to help others is contagious.

“She brings a lot of donations to help mental

health. I’m sure she’ll do a great job,” he said of Banks. “I’m sure everybody’s going to have a really good time.

Many people and businesses have stood behind Music for the Mind and have shown their support as sponsors.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m.

WIN TICKETS!

Enter to win two tickets to The Queens Cartoonists at the Chatham Capitol Theatre on February 4 at 7pm. Enjoy an evening of classic and contemporary animated cartoons, with the audio tracks performed live on stage! Hailing from Queens, New York, and having played in esteemed concert halls and street corners across the nations, The Queen’s Cartoonists are six world-class musicians who lead audiences through a truly unique musical experience.

A nostalgic and entertaining “musical circus” complete with instrumental mayhem and comedy, The Queen’s Cartoonists offer an immersive concert experience for all ages.

To enter our contest, send an e-mail to michelle@chathamvoice.com by Monday, January 30 at 4 p.m. with the heading, The Queens Cartoonists and a winner will be chosen at random from the entries received.

For people not lucky enough to win tickets, you can get them by visiting cktickets.com. Tickets for the show are $25-$45+ handling fee.

lifetransitions.ca 519.351.4444

Chatham Voice file photo

Elisha Banks brings back her Music for the Mind concert on Feb.4 at The Kent in Chatham.

Community Events

Thursday, January 19, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:30am1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone welcome.

• Ron Bolohan will perform at the Chatham Retirement Resort at 2:00pm. Call for info and to RSVP 519351-7777 ext. 526.

• The Chatham-Kent Quilters Guild in person meeting on the third Thursday of every month at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave E, Chatham. We continue with hybrid meetings until further notice with live Zoom available. Everyone is welcome to join us, including non-members. Non-members will pay a $5 fee per meeting and can enjoy our presentations, guest speakers and all of the other fun at our meeting. Our membership fee is $50 per year and this entitles you to our newsletter and all of our regular meetings free of charge. You are welcome to contact us through our Facebook page or our website at www.ckquiltguild.com for info.

• Conseil scolaire catholique Providence (Csc Providence) will open their doors to welcome their future students and families. This will be an opportunity for parents to visit our schools and to learn more about their neighbourhood school from our staff. To participate in the Open House event, parents must first select an elementary school and reserve their spot on our dedicated website: MyFrenchSchool.ca. They will then be sent a confirmation allowing them to attend the event.

Friday, January 20, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:30am1:30pm. Supper served from 4:006:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonights specials are chicken leg and thigh or fish and chips. Take out is available by calling 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.

Saturday, January 21, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Meat draw at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch from 3:00-5:30pm. Entertainment by the Marquis from 4:30-9:30pm. Everyone welcome.

• Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s United Church, 85 William Street S., Chatham presents “Dueling Keyboards” at 7 pm. The fourth edition of this program will feature the best duets of piano and organ performed on St. Andrew’s two great instruments by various talented musicians. Suggested donation $15. All are welcome! For further information call 519-3520010 or www.standrewschatham. org/music.

• 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-10:30am. Take out only.

Tuesday, January 24, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm.

Kitchen open for lunch 11:30am1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti and meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00pm or 7:00pm. Shuffleboard 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.

Wednesday, January 25, 2023:

• Do you live with a Chronic Health Condition or are a Caregiver for someone who does? Join us and learn how to take control of your health! Access virtual programs using any computer, tablet, or smartphone. All workshop materials are provided free of charge. Powerful tools for caregivers. Wednesdays - January 25 - March 1, 2023. 9:30am-12:00pm. Register at https://ptc_jan25.eventbrite.ca.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm.

Kitchen open for lunch 11:30am1:30pm. Today’s special is meat loaf dinner. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.

• Robbie Burns Day at the Chatham Retirement Resort.

Scotch tasting and music social at 2:00pm. Burns Day Supper at 4:00 or 5:00pm. Trivia game night at 6:30pm. Please RSVP to let us know which Burns Day Event you will be attending. 519-351-7777 ext.526.

Thursday, January 26, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:30am1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Everyone welcome.

• Bring your imagination to create a fanciful drawing of a rabbit, dog or cat. We’ll show you the technique, then you add details to make it unique. This free We Can Create! program will be held at 6:00pm in the Meeting Room of the Chatham Branch. All materials are supplied. Registration is required as space is limited. Please register in person at your local branch or by contacting Ask CKPL: By Phone: 519-354-2940. By Text: 519-401-7174. By Email: CKlibrary@chatham-kent.ca. By Facebook Messenger: @CKPLibrary

Friday, January 27, 2023:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St., Chatham open from 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:30am1:30pm. Supper served from 4:00-6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonights specials are liver & onions or fish and chips. Take out is available by calling 519-3518733 or 519-351-5639. Fun darts at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.

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

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

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

CLUES ACROSS

Not invited

Whale ship captain

Fun Stuff

Woods

Political action committee

Soviet Socialist Republic

People who can account for you

One point south of southwest

Small cavity in a rock

Recidivists

City of Angels hoopster

A way to mark with one’s signature

OJ trial judge

Rice cooked in broth

One point east of due south

One point east of southeast

Complements an entree

Grouped by twos

Disfigure

Longer of 2 bones in the forearm

made

Taunt 22. South Dakota 23. Cover the entirety of 24. Kids’ favorite visitor

A way to save for retirement

Fencing swords 28. C. China mountain range

Type of sandwich

Team

Paddle

Partly digested food

Most cagey

Shoppers make one

Cathode-ray tube

Food supplies

Backbones

Concern

Blood group

Broadway songwriter Sammy

Dutch colonist

Full-grown pike fish

Deity of a monotheistic cult

Type of bread

S. Nigerian people

Scottish tax

Young women’s association

Brazilian city

Hide of a young animal

Midway between north and northeast

Chatham loses downtown legend

The Chatham Voice

Chatham-Kent lost another venerable citizen recently, as Eddie Mariconda passed away Jan. 7.

Eddie was a larger-than-life figure; an icon in the Chatham core for decades, a master tailor and business owner selling men’s clothing.

He spent nearly seven decades in business downtown, and served on various boards, committees and with local service clubs.

In short, he really cared about his community and was not one to sit on the sidelines and complain. He got involved.

Eddie had an opinion on most everything, and offered it up for those who stopped by. If you had a differing view, he’d entertain it, but you had best be ready to defend your ground, as Eddie was great at verbal sparring and would disarm you with his wit before driving another point home.

Eddie is survived by his wife of 59 years, Diane; and children Rosalina, Joe, Virginia (Michael), and John; and grand children, Kristina, Whitney (Michael, great grandson Maverick) Zachary, Kendra (Aaron, and soon expected great-grandson) Holly, and Mallory. Also survived by sister-in-law, Marianina, brothers Gennaro (Ida), Tony (Ada), and sister Anna (Saverio).

McDonald’s opens in Tilbury Tilbury welcomed its first McDonald’s restaurant at 67 Mill St. W. recently.

The Tilbury restaurant will be

supporting Ashley’s Place. The organization supports youth, people experiencing homelessness and the Women’s Centre by supplying items in need.

When looking for an organization to give back to, Jason Trussell, the franchisee, and his team were passionate that Ashley’s Place was the ideal organization to assist. For every Big Mac sold from now until Feb. 7, $1 will be donated to Ashley’s Place to help purchase supplies in need.

Trussell has a long history supporting the communities his restaurants operate in, including a crew post-secondary scholarships program and community fundraisers. His restaurants are a major employer of youth across the Windsor-Essex area, creating more

than 100 new jobs in Tilbury alone.

Local realtors earn recognition

Peifer Realty’s Amber Pinsonneault has once again been awarded the Top 35 under 35 award from Royal LePage.

This national, production-based award recognizes top producing Royal LePage realtors aged 34 years old or under.

This honour recognizes Pinsonneault, the broker of record at Peifer Realty, and her sales performance, and puts

her in an elite group of real estate professionals across the country.

Peifer Realty also received two national Royal LePage awards for 2022.

The organization earned the Royal LePage National Top 5% Award, as well as the Royal LePage Executive Cir-

cle Award.

Pinsonneault and Kristen Nead, managing partner at Peifer Realty, said they couldn’t have done it without “the trust and support of each and every one of our clients and colleagues.”

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

Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham Kent Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Water and Wastewater Master Plan – Notice of Study Commencement

The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham Kent through its consultant AECOM has initiated a Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (MCEA) Master Plan study, to develop strategies for water and wastewater servicing to accommodate existing service areas and future growth.

The study will document existing conditions, provide population forecasts, complete water, and wastewater modeling, engage key stakeholders, Indigenous Communities, and the general public, and evaluate potential short and longterm alternative water and wastewater servicing strategies over the next 30 years, including high level costs.

Process

The MCEA study will be completed in accordance with the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act and will follow Approach #1 of the Municipal Engineers Association Municipal Class EA (as amended in 2015) Master Planning process. At the conclusion of the study, a suite of recommended water and wastewater projects will be identified including the MCEA Schedule (Schedule A, A+, B or C) for each project in the study area. This Master Plan will be completed at a broad level of assessment, therefore requiring more detailed investigations at the project specific level for any recommended Schedule B and C projects.

The Public Utilities Commission for the Municipality of Chatham Kent (PUC) wants anyone with an interest in the study to have an opportunity to provide input, which will help the project team in the decision-making process. Public Information Centres (PICs) will be held to provide information and receive feedback. PICs maybe held in a virtual format. We will publish invitation notices to the PICs in local newspapers and on the Municipality’s website www.letstalkchatham-kent.ca/chatham-kentwater-and-wastewater-master-plan

For more information or if you want to be placed on our mailing list for updates, please contact us at:

Dhana Niriella, P.Eng

Project Engineer

Chatham-Kent PUC 226-312-2023 x4338 dhanan@chatham-kent.ca

Paul Adams, CPT Environmental Planner

AECOM 519-963-5873 Paul.adams2@aecom.com

With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record of the Study.

Eddie Mariconda

Connie Prevett

OBITUARIES

87, Thursday, January 5, 2022

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Ronald Adams 93, Saturday, January 7, 2022

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Albert Boivin 82, Monday, January 9, 2022

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

Bill Stover 88, Sunday, January 8, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Millie Sillett 88, Wednesday, January 4, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Margaret Twigg 83, Friday, January 6, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Brian Mandeno 77, Saturday, January 7, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Eddie Mariconda Saturday, January 7, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Ewen John Ross 90, Sunday, January 8, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Pauline Rose Marchand 84, Sunday, January 8, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

FrankAnchor 87, Monday, January 9, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Thomas Franklin Kuhn 76, Tuesday, January 10, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

William Peter Mast 66, Thursday, January 12, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Frank Adam Slemensky

81, Wednesday, January 11, 2023

McKinlay Funeral Home

Martial Joseph Serge Lavoie 59, Thursday, January 5, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Steven Blake Simmons Wednesday, January 4, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Anita Dodich 79, Wednesday, January 11, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Karen Myers 79, Friday, January 6, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Dr. G. Wayne Asher 82, Saturday, January 7, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

Karl Ferguson Monday, January 9, 2023

Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home

David Gerald Eskritt 65, Saturday, January 7, 2022

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Loretta Brown 80, Sunday, January 8, 2022

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Sherry Callow 77, Tuesday, January 10, 2022

Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Rev James McGee Wednesday, January 4, 2022

Life Transitions

Frederick Postma Thursday, January 5, 2022

Life Transitions

Victim Services hosting fundraiser

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Bowling Thunder roars over Chatham on Feb. 5.

It’s a bowling fundraiser for Chatham-Kent Victim Services, one the organizers hope to make an annual event.

Organizer Jason Brown said they have about half the teams and lane sponsorships filled at this point, but welcome additional support. Businesses, organizations, and community members are encouraged to register a team to help raise funds to support those impacted by crime, tragedy, and traumatic situations across Chatham-Kent.

Team registration is $500, and teams are comprised of five players. Pre-registration is required, but pledges are not due until the day of the event.

There will also be a silent auction running during

Bowling Thunder, with donations from various local and regional partners and supporters.

Any organization interested in sponsoring a lane can do so for $250.

Brown said the extended pandemic put a strain on Victim Services resources, and additional support is appreciated.

“We’re just looking to raise some funds to continue to support the work we do,” he said. “We thought this was a fun way to help with trauma support.”

Chatham-Kent Victim Services provides short-term emotional support, crisis intervention, practical assistance, and community referrals to those impacted by crime, tragedy, and traumatic situations. They also provide trauma-informed community education on a variety of topics.

Every year, Chatham-Kent

Victim Services supports more than 1,400 people in the community with their healing and recovery.

“We’ve certainly seen an increase in partner violence and other violent crimes in our community. That increases our need in the community,” he said.

Brown added timely support for victims is vital.

“A lot of research indicates quick intervention can really help get people on the road to recovery,” he said.

The event will run from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Chatham Bowlerama, with doors opening at 1:30 p.m.

Those interested in signing up, sponsoring, or donating a silent auction item can contact Brown at jbrown@ckvictimservices.com.

“It will be an exciting and fun day. We encourage people to come out even if they aren’t bowling to see what we are all about,” he said.

Dueling Keyboards return

The Chatham Voice

The fourth edition of Dueling Keyboards will be presented as part of the Saturdays at 7 at St. Andrew’s concert series on Jan. 21. A favourite among concert goers, Dueling Keyboards puts the piano and organ at centre stage.

St. Andrew’s is fortunate to have a Yamaha concert grand piano as well as its historic 1925 Casavant pipe organ

and they are set to go head to head once again to find out who is the champion. The program will include the best duets for piano and organ, including music from the Magic Flute, as well as spirituals and contemporary music performed by familiar local pianists and organists, including St. Andrew’s Devon Hansen and Nancy Tapley, in addition to artists Dan Lankhof and Joel Vanderzee. As St. Andrew’s begins the

centennial celebration of its Casavant pipe organ, this program will match its grandeur with its new Yamaha concert grand piano.

Donations (suggested $15 per adult) will be accepted at the door. All proceeds go to support the music program at St. Andrew’s.

The event begins at 7 p.m. at St. Andrew’s United Church. For further information, call 519-352-0010 or visit www. standrewschatham.org.

ServiceOntario contracts extended

The Chatham Voice

The Chatham and Dresden ServiceOntario outlets will continue to run for most of this year, at least.

Municipal officials recently announced the contract will be extended to Oct. 31 of this

year for the Chatham location at the corner of Grand Avenue East and Michener Road, while the Dresden ServiceOntario contract will be extended to the end of the year. That office is in the municipal building in Dresden’s

downtown core.

These contract extensions allow the municipality to continue working with provincial partners to offer a one-stop shopping type of experience for many provincial and municipal services.

Mandeno: Brian Edward A resident of Chatham and formerly of Blenheim, Brian Mandeno passed away at the Copper Terrace Long Term Care Home with his loving family at his side on January 7, 2023 at the age of 77. Born in Owen Sound, Brian Edward Mandeno was the son of the late Robert and Alma (nee McMullen) Mandeno. Beloved husband of 17 years to Valarie Lather-Mandeno (nee VanLeatham) . Dear father to Nicole Segeren, Matthew Mandeno, Kim Heyninck (Jason) and Lee Lather (Danielle). Proud grandfather to Abby and Dylan Segeren, Emily Heyninck, Ryan Heyninck, Liam Lather and Mya Lather. Dear brother to Violet Rutherford and the late Tim, the late Margaret and Murray White, Ken and Bonnie Mandeno, Maurice & Hedy Mandeno, Ron and Vickie Mandeno, Carol and Dennis Munn, Cathy Rivest, Joan and Roy Pickering, Deb and John Shewburg. Brian was a retired employee of the Southwest Regional Centre. He was a volunteer Firefighter in Blenheim serving as Chief and District Chief at Station 18. He retired from service in 2002. Brian enjoyed fishing, camping and canoeing. He loved to bird watch and listen to music. He enjoyed a game of Euchre but loved his Poker with Kings and Little Ones being his game. He loved his fur babies dearly, Stella and Lady Grey will also miss him dearly. In keeping with Brian’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A family interment will take place at Riverview Cemetery, Wallaceburg. A Celebration of Brian’s life will be held at a later date. Donations made in memory of Brian to Copper Terrace Long Term Care Home- Behavioral Support Team and would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040

Wanted to Rent or Buy

Wanted to rent or buy 3 or 4 acres of land in Chatham-Kent area. No buildings or utilities needed. Rural area preferred. 519-352-5414 or 226-627-5414.

Ministry

Healing Love Ministry is an all night prayer line with counsellors available from 12:00am-7:00am. Also, a male support group for those struggling with sexual addiction. A home based ministry, private and confidential. 519-354-3532.

Classifieds

Obituaries

Coins

The families of John Bednarik “Bugsy” wish to sincerely thank all who shared our sorrows on our loved ones passing.

To Hinnegan Peseski Funeral Home for their guidance, St. Michael’s K of C’s service, the pallbearers, St. Joseph’s Church, Rev’s Robert Weaver and John Betkowski, the readers, the choir sharing of their talents and Aristos for hosting the meal.

All the expressions of sympathy are overwhelming and will forever be treasured. Heartfelt thank you to all staff of Tilbury Manor LTCH and CKHA for your continuous care these challenging years.

Lillian and families

BUYING coin collections and silver coins. Any questions call Paul 289228-2817.

Wanted

Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy AllPaid Cash. 519727-8894.

For Sale

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $35. 519-354-3411

Sell your unwanted items in the classifieds for only $6.00 +tax! Phone 519-397-2020!

Louis W. Parker

Louis W. Parker

A resident of the Village on the Ridge, Louis Parker, passed away suddenly on Thursday, December 29, 2022, in his 96th year.

A resident of the Village on the Ridge, Louis Parker, passed away suddenly on Thursday, December 29, 2022, in his 96th year.

He was born in Paisley, Ontario.

He was born in Paisley, Ontario.

Lou is lovingly remembered by his soulmate of 49 years, Donna O’Neill of Chatham.

Lou is lovingly remembered by his soulmate of 49 years, Donna O’Neill of

Loving father to Jeff Parker of Shrewsbury and Brenda Parker of Red Deere, Alberta.

Loving father to Jeff Parker of Shrewsbury and Brenda Parker of Red Deere, Alberta.

Proud and loving grandfather to Samantha Parker (Simon Gabsch), Dylan Parker, Ron Stephens, Brian Stephens, and Kim Parker.

Proud and loving grandfather to Samantha Parker (Simon Gabsch), Dylan Parker, Ron Stephens, Brian Stephens, and Kim Parker.

Lou was considered a second father to Donna’s son, Dan O’Neill (Colleen), and a grandfather to their children, Kailey and Erin.

Lou was considered a second father to Donna’s son, Dan O’Neill (Colleen), and a grandfather to their children, Kailey and Erin.

He will be missed by his great-grandchildren, Hudson and Ainslie.

He will be missed by his great-grandchildren, Hudson and Ainslie.

Many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family will also miss Lou.

Many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family will also miss Lou.

Cremation has taken place. No service will take place at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.

Cremation has taken place. No service will take place at this time. A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring.

MARICONDA:

Edward "Eddie"

It is with sadness that the family of Eddie Mariconda announces his passing on Saturday, January 7, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Edoardo Dominico Settimio Mariconda was born in Serino Avellino, Italy, and immigrated to Canada after completing his training as a Master Tailor. Once in Canada, he joined his soon to be wife Diane (Diamantina Matteis), and they were married on February 14, 1953. Dad was also a Merchant, and spent the better part of 70 years in Downtown Chatham, as a haberdasher and investor. Dad served on numerous boards, committees, and service clubs. One of his proudest service roles was as President, and later, as a Paul Harris fellow, with Rotary International. Dad was also a master gardener, and annually shared his bounty with family and friends. Dad‘s greatest pleasure came from spending time with his grandchildren. He loved to play cards, bocce balls, and to watch the Toronto Maple Leafs. Dad left us with a legacy of sage and witty one-liners. He is survived by his wife, Diane… just 5 weeks, shy of their 70th Wedding Anniversary, children: Rosalina, Joe, Virginia (Michael) , and John, and grand children, Kristina, Whitney (Michael, great grandson Maverick) Zachary, Kendra (Aaron, and soon expected great-grandson) Holly, and Mallory. Also survived by sister-in-law, Marianina, brothers Gennaro (Ida), Tony (Ada), and sister Anna (Saverio). Predeceased by parents Joseph and Irene (Orcomeno), and siblings: Rosa (Sabato), Filomena (Liberato), Lorenzo, and Emilio (Maria). Family and friends were received at McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street Chatham on Monday, January 9, 2023 and a Prayer Service was held at 7:30 p.m. A Celebration of Dad's life occurred on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, in the Funeral Home. Reception and luncheon followed at McKinlay Reception Centre. Cremation to follow with interment at a later date. Donations to Rotary International or the St. Vincent De Paul Society would be appreciated by the family. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040