The Herald Serving Thamesville, Dresden & Bothwell by Ontario Community Newspapers Association

The Herald Serving Thamesville, Dresden and Bothwell Established in 1886

Vol. 134, Issue 43 • Wednesday, October 21, 2020

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Missing Woman Returns Home

Chatham-Kent police were out in force in Thamesville searching for a missing 81-year-old woman with dementia who left her home at Francis’ Place Oct. 13. Chatham-Kent Police say Darlene Payne was last seen on London Road at 4 pm. Just before noon Oct. 14,, police were called in to help search for Payne with officials saying they were concerned for her safety. A large contingent of CKPS officers amassed mid-morning across from Francis Place and the Thamesville Tim Hortons. Police knocked on doors as they conducted a search of businesses and residences. According to Cowell, community patrol officers, members of the Criminal Investigation Branch, and the Critical Incident Response Team were on scene. A police drone and the K9 unit were also involved with the mobile command unit coordinating the search on site. Police officials said she was found Wednesday around 3 pm. It was discovered she had gone to Windsor to visit family and friends and she returned later in the afternoon. Cowell says “all resources are utilized in an effort to locate them, as soon as possible, hopeful safe and in good health.” Pam Wright/Local Journalism Initiative Initiative Photo

Camp Vincent near Bothwell on the brink of closing its doors Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative Pushed to the brink by COVID-19, Bothwell’s Camp Vincent is teetering on the edge of closure. The iconic children’s summer camp — set to mark its 50th anniversary in 2021 — may be forced to close unless some last minute funding is found. So the group has launched its first ever public fundraising campaign

to stave off closure. According to the chairperson of the camp’s executive board the pandemic has created “very challenging” circumstances for the facility. “COVID-19 is the catalyst,” says Collin Girard says the camp’s precarious financial situation. “It’s kind of pushed everything over the edge.” It’s been a tough year for the camp. There were no campers all summer because of the pandemic, and then, in August, there was a robbery at the facility. That caused $12,000 in damage. The camp’s tractor broke down as well, making it difficult to cut St. Vincent’s vast swaths of grass to

keep the grounds in shape. However the St. Ursula chapter of the Knight’s of Columbus in Chatham stepped forward and donated a Ford tractor. But the bills continue to stack up, say officials, including taxes and utilities. Girard says the organization is in need of around $50,000 to get it to through to next May, with the hope the camp can again open its doors to children. An average of 700 youngsters normally attend the Longwoods Road facility each summer, overseen by about 30 counsellors. It’s estimated that 30,000 youngsters from across Southwestern Ontario, as well as Toronto and

Niagara, have attended the camp in its 49-year history. Around 500 staff have worked there too, including Girard, who spent eight summers as a counselor and two as an administrator. The camp has never reached out to the public for funding before, relying on camp fees and a host of donors who quietly give. “A lot of our donors sponsor kids, which is great,” Girard says, but that doesn’t help pay for items such as maintenance or water system upgrades. A third of the organization’s budget made up of donations. In order to fundraise, St. Vincent officials have entered into a marketing campaign with a Wallace-

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burg radio station, 99.1, to see if sponsorship funding can be found. Lee Salisbury, who also works on maintenance at the Bothwell site is helping spearhead the campaign. The fundraiser is offering donors four levels of sponsorship, ranging from one camper at $350, to a corporate ‘survivalist,’ level at $5,000, which includes a company logo on camp t-shirts and other merchandise. People are also welcome to make a donation of their choice either online, or by mailing to 15142 Longwoods Rd., Bothwell ON N0P 1C0. - The Herald

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Wednesday, October 21, 2020

New video series brings Dresden’s freemen’s accomplishments to light Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

A new video series that expands the story of Dresden’s Black history is in the works. The project, spearheaded by the Uncle Tom’s Cabin historic site, is called ‘Discovering Dawn.’ It focuses on seven different locations in Dresden and emphasizes the contributions Black freemen made in building the town. Local historian Marie Carter says the information helps round out an important slice of Chatham-Kent’s history that is largely unknown. “When we think of the history of the Dawn Settlement, we normally think in terms of the slavery-tofreedom narrative, Carter explains, “but there are other stories that include people who were freemen, sometimes for generations, before coming to Canada.” Those ‘freemen’ entrepreneurs, including skilled tradespeople and professionals, are important to Dresden’s origins. “We don’t think about that group,” Carter notes. Black people established many ‘firsts’ in Dresden, the historian says. Dr. Amos Aray was Dresden’s first physician, and William Whipper — who Carter has researched extensively — was the founder of the flour mill. Filming for the series took place last week. Carter and Jackie Bernard, the new program assistant at Uncle Tom’s Cabin, provide the narration while site manager Steve Cook has taken on filming and production. The scripts for the series were written by Carter. She’s been researching the Dawn Settlement for the past 20 years.

Filming for a new video series called ‘Discovering Dawn’ took place in Dresden has begun. Narrators Marie Carter and Jackie Bernard are captured here on film by Steve Cook while discussing a historical building on Main Street. Carter wrote the script for the new series. It will be featured on the Uncle Tom’s Cabin’s website. One of the properties featured is a two-storey building at the corner of Main and Tecumseh Streets. Listed on the Chatham-Kent Municipal Heritage Registry the building was constructed at the end of the American Civil War. Now an apartment building owned by Bill and Carol Hooper, the site once housed a blacksmith shop and a carriage factory. According to Carter, the carriages were built on the building’s second floor and then rolled downstairs to the ground.

An architectural gem — circa 1870 — the structure presents an Italianate influence in its brackets, cornice and windows. Cook says the ‘Discovery Dawn’ idea has been in the works for some time, but COVID-19 pushed it forward. The doors at the Uncle Tom’s Cabin site were closed in March and with no foot traffic, there’s an urgency to enlarge the site’s

More addiction services on the way Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

Services at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance mental health and addiction clinic are set to expand thanks to a cash infusion from the province. Lori Marshall, the hospital’s president and CEO, says the $150,000 boost will allow the Rapid Access to Addiction Medicine clinic to expand its hours and hire two new staff. Marshall says the money will help deliver badly needed services made worse by the pandemic’s onset. Like the rest of the country, COVID-19 has brought a rise in mental health problems, as more people present with addictions and overdoses spike.

The RAAM clinic, located at 240 Grand Ave. West in Chatham, offers low barrier services to anyone age 16 and over. Brief counseling and support, trauma informed care and referrals for other available services are provided. Prescriptions for medications for opiate and alcohol addictions, such as Suboxone can me made, and Narcan overdose kits are also available. The clinic currently runs Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 1-4 p.m. A total of $75,000 is funding for the Lambton-Kent chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association was also announced by the province. - The Herald

A smelly mess leads to mischief charges A Chatham woman is facing mischief charges after acting out in the ChathamKent Police holding cells. Oct. 14, police arrested a woman for a bail violation and held her in custody for the night. The next morning police found the woman urinated on the cell floor. She was moved, and did it again. She also attempted to obscure the security camera by smearing her breakfast on the

close circuit camera lens. The woman was moved to another cell, where she tried to cover the camera with toilet paper. When she was taken to the fourth cell; there she defecated on the floor. The woman faces the original charge of failing to comply with her release conditions and another four counts of mischief.

online presence. “We want to make our information more widely available and reach out through the Internet,” Cook says. The site has other online projects on the go, Cook adds, as the

Pam Wright/Local Journalism Initiative Photo

Lambton-Kent District School Board is currently developing an online teaching tool relating to Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

- The Herald

Accepting Applications Round Two

Emergency grants for registered charities supporting vulnerable populations impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in Chatham-Kent For more information and to apply, visit www.chathamkentcommunityfoundation.ca

THE HERALD

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Page 3

New bus service will bring Bothwell residents to Chatham Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

An innovative pilot project to provide transportation to Chatham-Kent’s rural communities is set to kick off in Bothwell. Beginning Nov. 4, seniors will be able take a special van to Chatham once a month for only $10 round trip. A second van, available to everyone including seniors, will make a bi-weekly trip round trip into the Chatham hub, also for

only $10. It starts Nov. 13. Phillip Mock, project coordinator for Chatham-Kent’s Prosperity Roundtable, is excited about the venture, adding that if things go well the idea may be expanded to include other rural communities such as Thamesville and Highgate. “We’ll see how it works,” Mock says. “Transportation is so important because it’s how people stay connected. “We want to make sure options are available to rural people so they can stay on their feet.” Mock says it’s hoped the van

service — which has room for seven people — will fill up so costs can be kept down. Wednesday was chosen for seniors, Mock explains, as it is the designated shopping day for seniors. The van will leave Bothwell Town Hall at 12 noon and will allow travellers about four-and-a half hours in the city. Travellers will be able to choose where their destination and can add additional stops for only $1 each. Mock says everyone will be

picked up by 5 pm and dropped off at their home. The bi-weekly bus will leave Bothwell town hall at 9 a.m. and return at 3 p.m. Each additional stop will also cost $1. Masks are required for the duration of all travel. For prospective riders who fear the spread of COVID-19, they can take an individual van to Chatham for $30 round trip. If you want to go somewhere else in Chatham-Kent beside Chatham, the fee is based on income and the

number of kilometres involved. The new rural service is separate from Chatham-Kent Transit, which provides connections to Wallaceburg, Ridgetown and to Charing Cross and Merlin. adVANtage Transportation Service is providing the van service though Family Service Kent. To find out more information access www.prosperityroundtable. comor call Chris at 519-354-6221 ext. 275. An application and registration must be filled out in advance. - The Herald

Several classes sent home after Blenheim COVID cases No more COVID cash for CK Heather Wright The Herald

A Chatham-Kent school is dealing with two cases of COVID-19. CK Public Health says two people at St. Anne’s in Blenheim have tested positive. The news comes after students in four Chatham-Kent schools were sent home to isolate after being in contact with a probable COVID-19 case. Deb Crawford, director of education at the St. Clair District Catholic School Board, says students were sent home because of probable cases in the school. A probable case is a close

contact of someone confirmed to have COVID-19. Two classes at Ursuline College - 35 students and two staff - were sent home Monday at the direction of CK Public Health. The latest information from the Catholic board shows all classes at UCC are underway. Six students from a bus from St. Anne Blenheim were also sent home. Students at Blenheim high school were also sent home as were students at Harwich Raleigh Public school. In all cases, Crawford says “CK Public Health will contact any families who are considered close contacts of the

probable case. It is very important to note that if you do not receive a call from CK Public Health, you are not considered a close contact. “Unless public health contacts families or students, there is no action needed,” she adds. Public health says one of the people who tested positive is a service provider for both school boards but will not give out further information about what the person did. Public health is working with both boards and has already contacted the close contacts of the person. They’ve been advised to continue to isolate as a precaution.

The Herald Staff

Chatham-Kent won’t apply for more COVID-19 relief funds from the federal government. The municipality received over $5.8 million in the first round when the province handed out the cash based on population. It also received money for transit. In a report to council, staff says the real costs of COVID-19 have now

been estimated between $2 million and $3 million. Since the money can only be spent on COVID-19 financial issues, the remainder will be carried over into 2021. The report adds the second round of funding requires a complicated application. Instead, council endorsed the idea of approaching the province to create new revenue streams in the wake of COVID-19.

After two weeks without any COVID-19 cases in Chatham-Kent; three cases reported Monday Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

Chatham-Kent’s recent run of zero cases of COVID-19 has come to an end. On Monday, the virus reared its head again presenting with three new cases, one of which relates to a workplace outbreak. Medical Office of Health Dr. David Colby says contact tracing has taken place and the cases and contacts have been isolated. The name of the workplace cannot be disclosed due to privacy restrictions, but Colby did say it is a small workplace where employees have no exposure to the public. “It’s not a place the public has any access to,” he adds.

No one with COVID-19 is hospitalized in Chatham-Kent at this time. Colby adds the rise in cases has nothing to do with Thanksgiving celebrations but that could be an issue soon. “This week if we see a big uptick, that will be the signal people didn’t listen” to public health warnings to avoid large family gatherings, says Colby. “It’s wait and see.” Colby says there is an incredible amount of “COVID-19 fatigue” as people grow weary of the warnings and the preventative measures. It’s scary, he adds, because people are going to work and school sick when they should be staying home. They are either misinterpreting or ignoring warnings, Colby say, adding government programs

exist to help people with financial supports. “If you’re not feeling well, stay home, except to go out and take a test,” he says, adding physical distancing and good hygiene practices must be maintained. The number of people ill in Chatham-Kent is still lower than neighbouring Lambton County and a far cry from the huge numbers of cases in Ontario’s urban centers. In Lambton, a total of 10 cases and two outbreaks were recorded Monday. Two elementary schools, one in Corunna and one in Bright’s Grove have each recorded a case, as has a Sarnia high school, although late Monday both the public and separate boards were dealing with

cases in Chatham-Kent schools. (see below) There is also an outbreak in a Sarnia nursing home facility. Testing for COVID-19 in Chatham-Kent continues at an average of 109 cases per day. According to Colby the COVID-19 testing centre at the HealthPlex was seeing long wait times last week but this had been caused by a computer glitch. It’s since been fixed and people can book and cancel tests online. Lori Marshall, president and chief executive officer at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance says there had a lot of “no shows” recently of people which added to the backlog. Marshall says that if people need to cancel their appointment they

should phone the testing centre and those who need a test can call to see if they can fill a cancellation. According to Marshall about 40 percent of those coming to the centre are symptomatic, while the remainder needs to have a negative test to enter facilities such as nursing homes. There are also pre-surgical patients who need testing. As of Monday 32,661 residents have tested for the novel coronavirus in Chatham-Kent. Of the 374 cases there have been three deaths and 368 recovered. Testing by the Chatham-Kent Health Alliances continues on a daily basis at the St. Clair College HealthPlex. - The Herald

The Herald

Page 4

Editorial

Equal pay for equal service

If the Municipality of Chatham-Kent wants equality for payment for services, it will have to come up with a way to provide the same services equally in the region. As explained in our page 5 article, Chatham-Kent administration is looking at increasing some rural taxes to have similar properties across the municipality paying the same amount. In the past, area ratings were put in place to acknowledge that services aren’t provided at the same level in the rural area as they are in the urban area. The proposed system would do away with that in a number of areas including policing and garbage pickup. For example, a rural property owner who is currently paying $196 per $100,000 of assessment for police services would pay $298 under the new method, resulting in an increase of $102. Meanwhile, an urban property owner who currently pays $374 for police services would also pay $298, resulting in a savings of $75. The concept is acceptable if rural and urban taxpayers have the same services. And on policing, we believe it is beyond obvious that policing in rural areas is not close to what happens in urban areas. You might recall a couple of years ago, there was a rash of break-in in Thamesville and it led to calls of increased policing. At the time, the chief said Thamesville had the lowest crime rate in ChathamKent and it would not be increasing service levels. It’s very clear, the police put their resources where they believe they are most needed. That means, there are likely cruisers and officers in Chatham at all times of the day, making it at least possible to get to a crime while it is in process. In Thamesville, Bothwell and Dresden, if you see police in the area you wonder what’s going on because normally, they are not around often. It is far less likely that an officer would be in say, Bothwell, when a bank is robbed making it more difficult to catch the suspects. That’s not equitable service - not even close. If Chatham-Kent councillors want rural residents to pay the same amount for policing services as their urban neighbours, policing services have to increase in rural areas. Then there would be equality.

Letters to the Editor

The Herald welcomes Letters to the Editor. Our preferred methods to receive letters are via email to heraldeditor@outlook.com (please use Letter in the subject line). You can also deliver letters to The Herald at London Road (Town Hall), Thamesville or drop them in the mail at The Herald, Box 580, Thamesville, ON N0P 2K0. The Herald reserves the right to edit letters for brevity and clarity. All letters need to be signed and must have a phone number for verification.

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Our Story

During harvest time, local farmers often hired a threshing team. This photo is of the Hoover Threshing Outfit although it seems the photographer made a mistake originally naming the owner as Mr. Curran. Petrolia Heritage Photo

Tired of trying to figure out the whys during COVID-19

There has been a great hue and cry about the provincial government’s recommendation for families in the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa to keep their kids home for Halloween. The premier and the province’s chief medical officer of health says in communities where there are a lot of people with COVID-19, going door-to-door to gather candy is not the best idea and recommended against it. Doug Ford gamely offered up a few ideas, like parties at home with your family or a candy hunt. But, it doesn’t seem his suggestions were welcome. Reporters wondered why kids could go to school with hundreds of others, but not go trick or treating. They asked why - if COVID-19 spreads with close contact over a longer period of time - would asking for candy at a door be

Published Every Wednesday

dangerous. And they asked again about why the province is allowing things like dance classes but not the time honoured tradition of begging for tiny chocolate bars and Halloween kisses. It was a full court press on the government for ruining some fun and at face value, the outrage seems a bit much to me. Full disclosure; even as a kid, I wasn’t really a big fan of Halloween. Let me rephrase that; I wasn’t jazzed up about getting on a costume and going door-to-door - I was only in it for the candy. So I admit, perhaps my view is different than many people’s. But, I think the issue is about more than yet another tradition flushed down 2020’s giant COVID-19 toilet; it’s about our difficultly understanding why some things are permitted and

some things are not as public officials try to contain the virus in our province. And I have to admit, I, too, wonder sometimes about the reasoning behind some of the decisions. At this point, I’ve decided not to try to understand why, but instead to look at the risks I face and what I’m Heather Wright comfortable doing and move on. There is so much going on right now, there are too many new suggestions each day, that it becomes tiring trying to figure out the whys of everything.

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Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Opinion

THE HERALD

Page 5

Progressively Forward

Emery Huszka

TIA wants people to take care of Ferguson Park EDITOR: Wow, what a year. But you know we will survive because each and everyone is doing our best. Thank you Canada. We had some damage in (Ferguson) park. Someone ripped the light off the post, left deep ruts in the grass. If you don’t like our park, go somewhere else. Some people using our park for games need to clean up their mess when their done.

People are using the doggy bag stations. Remember it is a ChathamKent rule that when your dog is off your property, they must be on a leash. There are a couple (of people) who have their own rules, that doesn’t fly with me. And then, when people see the unleashed dogs, you hear “We’ll she or he can do it, why can’t I?’” Our village has come a long way, lets keep it going ahead.

Bird Bouchard Local Journalism Initiative A controversial tax change proposing the elimination of service charges in some areas of Chatham-Kent is going to the public for consultation. Chatham-Kent Council has decided to get public feedback on a plan to scrap a few urban charges while increasing some rural taxes to get similar properties across the municipality paying the same amount. An area rating is intended to account for either significant differences in service levels or costs of providing services to various different parts of Chatham-Kent. If approved, all property owners would pay equally for the three services through the base levy, regardless of how frequently the service is used in their community. Under the plan, rural taxpayers would pay an extra $300 on average a year for services, such as policing and

garbage pick up while urban taxpayers would save $225 a year on the average tax bill. For example, a rural property owner who is currently paying $196 per $100,000 of assessment for police services would pay $298 under the new method, resulting in an increase of $102. Meanwhile, an urban property owner who currently pays $374 for police services would also pay $298, resulting in a savings of $75. “Generally, in the absence of area rating, similarly assessed properties would pay the same level of property taxes municipality wide,” read the report. “Conversely, with area rating, similarly assessed properties pay different levels of property taxes depending on the level of service provided in their specific area.” In May 2019, council approved a recommendation to allocate $100,000 of the Provincial Efficiency Grant towards the Tax System Modernization project. The purpose of the Tax System Modernization project is to implement a new tax system and consolidate the existing 3,000 municipal tax rates, creating efficiencies in the administration of property taxes. “In preparation for the

implementation of a new property tax system, staff have initiated a review of the current tax rate model to promote a process that supports the council mandate of openness and transparency,” stated the report. “The goal for the consolidation portion of the project is to reduce the number of area rated charges to more accurately reflect the level of service provided to the property owners of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.” East Kent Councillor Steve Pinsonneault said he would like to see more detailed reports regarding police services. “The police services are not the same level in the rural areas as they are in the urban areas,” said Pinsonneault. “These (Farm Tax Ratio and Tax Rate Modernization) are both tied together and will have the same negative effect on the rural communities. I think they both need to be looked at and come back at the same time.” The issue is expected to return to Chatham-Kent Council in November after a report is prepared. If approved, all property owners would pay equally for all services across Chatham-Kent.

Chatham-Kent’s 2021 budget is still months away but suggestions from the public are already pouring in. An online survey tool launched by the municipality on Oct. 13, has garnered 844 responses. East Kent Councillor John Wright says the 2021 budget has “certainly got everyone’s attention. “People are tired of the spend, spend, spend,” he explains. One of the big-ticket items on the budget is a request for $18-million to renovate the Chatham-Kent Civic Centre. Wright says he can see upgrading the heating system — its still the original from when the structure was built — but he thinks the remainder of the changes should be done piece by piece. Upgrades to heating and cooling are estimated at $9.7-million. “We know the system is outdated,” he adds, but you can put a “furnace in without renovating the whole

building.” Also driving the taxpayers to the phones is a proposal to equalize what rural and urban taxpayers shell out for services like policing. That coupled with a suggestion by administration to increase the tax rate on farms from .22 per cent of the residential rate to .25 per cent has raised the ire of the rural community and may be part of the reason behind the large number of calls to the budget hotline. The survey that can be found at www. chatham-kent.ca/LetsTalkand , allows participants to tell the municipality what services they deem important and whether spending should be increased or decreased. There is also a section that asks residents if they would support an increase in user fees for municipal services where such fees are the primary source of revenue. Respondents can also fill out a section for general comments outlining further concerns they may have. The survey is open until Nov. 3. Steve Brown, Chatham-Kent’s

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Chatham-Kent Budget hotline takes in 844 comments in a week Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

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The splash pad was well used again this summer - very good. It was so nice to see our ladies getting together in the park. It is so good for everyone’s morale to have a few laughs. If anyone has new ideas, for our village or help the Neighbour Watch Team, please call 519-917-3779. Thanks for taking time to read our letter. Brian Carther Thamesville, ON

CK suggests rural residents pick up more of the tab Rural taxpayers could pay hundreds more policing while urban costs drop

DEALER-FLORENCE, ON

Director of Budget and Performance Services, says the online survey gives residents the chance to provide input at their convenience. Citizens are also invited to reach out to their local councillors by phone or email to offer input and discuss concerns. On Wednesday Jan. 13, 2021, council will hold its online opening budget night committee beginning at 6 p.m. Community consultations will be held: Tuesday, Jan. 19 at 12 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 20 at 4 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 21 at 6 p.m. Details on how the public can access the process will be released once the format is finalized. Budget committee deliberations will be held from 6-10 p.m. Jan. 27. Citizens are encouraged to provide input throughout the process and can join the conversation at any time. Residents can access information specific to the 2021 budget on the municipality’s website or on Twitter and Facebook. - The Herald

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The Herald

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Legions will be restricting services to executive members only Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative For the first time since 1931, Canadians are being asked not to come to the local cenotaphs for Remembrance Day ceremonies. Tim McFadden, president of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 113 in Dresden says orders have come down from command in Ottawa that the public is not to attend services. “They are asking people not to show up,” McFadden says adding it is to stop the spread of COVID-19. The novel coronavirus is especially threatening to the elderly and older demographic. He says the actual laying of wreaths will be done prior to the service. Only executive members will attend the event, he adds, however a service will be pre-recorded and people will be able to watch on the legion’s Facebook page. A list of people who buy wreaths for veterans will be posted on the site as well. McFadden says the national ceremony held at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier will also be by invitation only this year. Ruth Campbell, president of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 367 in Thamesville, says it’s disappointing that the community can’t gather together to honor veterans. “It really is sad but there’s nothing we can do about it,” Campbell says. Members of the Thamesville executive will be the only ones going over to the Cenotaph to mark Remembrance Day. “We are going over and have something and that will be fine as long as we social distance,” Campbell says.

All alone? Sometimes you just need to talk. It is pretty hard to do, when you don’t have a phone, and have to keep your distance from others because of COVID-19. That’s why the Chatham-Kent Prosperity Roundtable is hoping residents will donate their old, but still working cellphones, to help less fortunate residents in Chatham-Kent. “If it works, we don’t care how old it is, as long as it has a charger,” says Sharon Oulds, leader of the roundtable’s Voices of Poverty project.

Agri business are getting more financial help to cover the costs of keeping workers safe during COVID-19. The federal and provincial agriculture ministers this week announced $11.6 million more to help producers build physical barriers for worker separation, upgrading HVAC systems and enhancing hand-washing facilities. Under the program, the amount farmers can claim for expenses like personal protective equipment, trans-

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A mother and daughter lay their poppies at the Thamesville cenotaph in 2019. Members of Legion’s across the country are asking people to pause to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice at home, work or school this year. Nicole Vanrabaeys Photo “Other than that no one is supposed to do anything.” At Branch 252 in Bothwell, only the executive will parade to the Cenotaph to hold a simple 11th hour service, says president Larry Meadows. “We will parade carrying our flags only,” Meadows says, adding that if anyone from the public does attend they must wear masks and adhere to

strict social distancing. “It’s a wide open area and will be blocked off, he says. In all three communities commemorative wreaths will be laid prior to the gathering. Local residents who want to honor a veteran by contributing a wreath can make arrangements by contacting their local legion. -The Herald

Donation boxes have been set up at various locations throughout the municipality. Phones and chargers are to be placed in a clear zip lock bag prior to donation. Being able to communicate with others can come none too soon, Oulds says. The pandemic has exacerbated the loneliness and isolation many seniors already face. Being without a phone is also an obstacle for low-income and homeless residents, Oulds says, making it difficult as they try to find housing, or jobs, or access services. “A phone is a necessity these days,” Oulds explains. “The second wave of

COVID is coming and it’s just going to make the situation worse.” Some areas of the municipality, such as Bothwell, don’t have inexpensive access to Internet, she adds, making a phone even more important. Along with a phone, organizers hope to include a $25 prepaid card to get people started. “The phones will be for texting and talking only,” she explains, adding the service will not be providing funds for Internet data. Anyone who would like to donate can call 519-784-4345. Organizers may be able to pickup donations. - The Herald

Agri business gets more help to combat COVID-19 problems The Herald Staff

REASON FOR

# READING

Donating your old phone could mean a lifeline for others Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

THE

Page 6

portation and temporary housing will double to $15,000. The agri-food sector was hit hard in the early stages of the pandemic. Local greenhouse Greenhill Produce had a major outbreak with over half of its staff testing positive for COVID-19 in the spring. The virus is spread when people are close together. The greenhouse industry often uses Temporary Foreign workers to bring in the crop. They are often housed in bunk houses which provide little or no space for

social distancing. Many greenhouse operations had to find more housing to support the workers. The program also includes a new category for small capital projects up to $100,000 to pay for housing modifications and workplace accommodations that allow for more physical distance. Ontario’s agri-food sector supports more than 837,000 jobs in Ontario and contributes more than $47.5 billion each year to the province’s economy.

Life is all about lifelong learning.

If you want to improve your skills, help is close by. Find a learning program in your area to get started, visit

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THE HERALD

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Page 7

Trick or Treating okay; Home by 8 cancelled Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative Barring a last minute decision by the province, it looks like Chatham-Kent youngsters will be able to trick or treat this Halloween. Dr. David Colby, Chatham-Kent’s Medical Officer of Health, says the tradition will be safe provided everyone adheres to strict physical distancing and avoids group events. “Our basic message is that we are discouraging parties and gatherings,” Colby says. “Outdoor trick or treating should be fine as long as households stick together.” He says the event can be a “safe and fun time for everybody,” even in the face of COVID-19. Scientific research has shown that the risk of transmission through inanimate objects such as wrapped candy is low. The danger comes from close contact. The pandemic has short-circuited events for children and youth and people need a return to normal events, Colby notes. “We certainly need a break,” he adds. While kids may be out gathering candy on your street, another Halloween tradition is taking a break this year due to COVID-19. The Thamesville Sertoma Club’s annual Halloween Home by 8 Halloween program has been cancelled because of the

pandemic. Club member Ruth Campbell, who chairs the Home By 8 committee, says it’s the first time in the event’s 48-year history its been scratched. Campbell says the service club voted on the matter after consulting with the two local elementary schools. “It can’t happen,” Campbell says. “We talked to the schools and we can’t do it for the safety of the kids.” Normally, Home by 8 organizers would collect donations from area businesses and buy gifts to be distributed at local schools. Two grand prizes are given out, one at Thamesville Area Public School and another at Good Shepherd Catholic School. An additional 30 prizes are divided between the schools. All winners are selected by way of a random draw. The program was designed to get youngsters off the streets and home early on Halloween night. Campbell says postponing Home by 8 is sad, but there’s always hope for Halloween 2021.“We’ll do a bang up job next year,” Campbell says. While children in most of Ontario will be out for the popular holiday on Oct. 31, public health is asking parents in areas where COVID-19 is most active including Toronto, Peel, and Ottawa as well as Halton. - The Herald

Neighbour Lambton County’s Biggest Rural

Construction on a new $6.5 million field crop services building at the Ridgetown campus of the University of Guelph is started. The new building, which was celebrated in Ridgetown Monday, will support the study of crop production, including best management strategies in crop genetics, nutrient inputs, and integrated pest management. Ontariobased agri-food research produces new products and practices which help Ontario farmers be more competitive and efficient. The new building will be 12,000 sq. ft and provide space for lab and analysis

rooms, cold storage, drying space, small and large equipment storage and utility spaces which support the operation of the building. It should be complete by 2022. “The Ridgetown Campus fills an important need for applied agricultural research, education and outreach that is not duplicated within the province,” says Ken McEwan, Ridgetown Campus Director at the University of Guelph in a news release adding it is a “significant long-term investment in field crop research infrastructure.” Minister of Agriculture Ernie Hardeman says about the sustainability, protection and viability of Ontario’s food supply.

Giving The Gift at Christmas in CK Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

On Nov. 21, a holiday giving program is looking to unwrap the generosity of Chatham-Kent. Titled ‘The Gift,’ the goal of the venture to collect a gift from every doorstep in the municipality. In turn, these items will be distributed to someone, or a family in need during the holiday season. Steve Bellan, who has taken on a leadership role with The Gift as a captain in Thamesville, says the movement is gaining momentum and more volunteers are needed. “It takes everybody in Chatham-Kent to make it happen,” Bellan says. “We’re living in unprecedented times…the need is there 100 percent.” Bellan says that although the venture is Chatham-Kent wide, donations will stay in the communities where they are made. Sign making, picking up and delivering items, as well as sorting food are among the roles that need to be

filled, Bellan says. Modeled after the record-breaking May 16 Miracle food drive, The Gift is looking for donations of unwrapped gifts, gift cards or food items, to brighten the holidays for those in need this Christmas. The pandemic is taking its toll on society — both financially and emotionally. It’s estimated around 30,000 local residents will be in need of help this holiday season. The Gift’s success could surmount the May 16 effort. Luke Davidson, an organizer with The Gift, says 410 people signed up to volunteer in the first 24 hours. “We’re calling it The Gift because everyone has a gift to give, whether it’s your time or your resources. “You know in your heart and soul what your gift is.” All of Chatham-Kent’s usual elves will be joining forces under The Gift umbrella in order to streamline services. For more information about getting involved access www.thegiftck.com.

FOOD DRIVE

Join us November 7 @ 12 noon ...as we hold a rural Lambton wide food drive We've all been struggling in so many ways this last year as a result of COVID-19. Among the hardest hit are food banks and organizations and those who rely on them for support. It's easy to participate! Place a non-perishable food item on your doorstep or at the road before noon on Saturday, November 7th. In our more urban areas we will be going door to door picking up non-perishable goods. In our more rural areas we will be identifying a drop off location that is easy to find. This will save time and allow us to gather as many goods as possible.

Construction starts on new ag college crop building The Herald Staff

Neighbour

An amazing group of volunteers will be going across rural Lambton to pick the donations up following all the health protocols to keep you and our volunteers safe.

for more info

or to volunteer go to

www.n2nfooddrive.com

The Herald

Page 8

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

BLIND LINE FIRE

Firefighters from Thamesville were called to a blaze south of Kent Bridge last week to attend to a fire at a farm on Blind Fourth Line. The call came in 2:29 p.m. and crews were on scene until just after 6 p.m. A total of 22 firefighters from Harwich North Station 12 and Thamesville Station 8 responded, along with tanker truck support from Chatham and Blenheim. The cause of the fire is undetermined. Pam Wright/Local Journalism Initiative Photo

Renos to Civic Centre on the table Jenna Cocullo Local Journalism Initiative Chatham-Kent councillors are still not sold on the idea of spending millions renovating the Civic Centre. Council discussed, for the fourth time, the $18.1 million needed for repairs and upgrades. “That’s a tough one to swallow right now considering we haven’t had a meeting at the Civic Centre since March, but that being said there is some work that needs to happen and can’t be something we need to ignore,” said Wallaceburg Coun. Aaron Hall. Staff recommendations call for the replacement of the HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and cooling), moving the council chambers to the first floor, and replacing old elevators, windows and doors. “I feel the same way I did last time, even more so now. We are in the midst of a pandemic. The optics are awful,” said South Kent Coun. Trevor Thompson. Thompson was one of 11 councillors who voted down the recommendation when it was last brought to council in January. The need to address the age-driven deterioration of the Civic Centre, built in 1977, and the need to maintain the building’s components was first brought to council in 2017. In 2019, staff brought a second report to the council, recommending the chambers be moved to the first floor for accessibility concerns. At the last discussion on the topic, councillors asked staff to bring back a report outlining the specific costs for only the HVAC system, the most critical component in need of repairs. The report totals the cost at more than $9 million. The costs would be supported from the building lifecycle reserves with no negative impact to the tax levy, according to the report prepared

by Infrastructure and Engineering Services. “I find it disingenuous to say it won’t cost taxpayers. The money could be put toward anything else,” Thompson said. At September’s council meeting, Thompson successfully brought forward a motion directing administration to review which staff positions have been home-based during the pandemic and how they can maintain a working-from-home structure in the future. He said it will allow Chatham-Kent to continue promoting the idea that it is a desirable place to live with remote working opportunities. “So who knows, three or four or five years from now we might not even need a building that size. I can’t support any recommendation to spend that much money at this point,” he said. Regarding the HVAC system, Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy said that he does not believe the situation is so dire it is in need of immediate repairs and will have to hear more from staff on the impacts of not repairing the system. “If we do HVAC, we have to do other things to bring the building up to code and that costs more money. If that’s the case then no, the timing is off. I think we can put this off, muddle through it, until the timing is right,” he said. At the meeting earlier in the year, Chatham Coun. Marjorie Crew wanted an accessible and environmentally friendly building. Now she said she will have to weigh the timing with the impacts the bad HVAC system could have on staff. “It’s a tough thing to get by people. We’re not spending money on ourselves, we are employers that need to make sure the people we hire are healthy and safe.” - The Chatham Voice

Keep Trick or Treaters Safe Use Tongs to hand out your candy 2-STREAM Recycling Guide 2-Stream recycling means you separate paper products from all other recyclables. Use two containers, black box for fibres (e.g. beverage cartons, paper & boxboard) and blue box for all other acceptable recyclables. Place all excess paper including small amounts of shredded paper in an un-tied plastic/paper grocery bag in or beside your fibre recycling box.

STREAM 1

STREAM 2

Fibre Products In Black Box ONLY

Food, Beverage & Liquid Containers In Blue Box ONLY

Paper Beverage Cartons:

Glass Bottles and Jars:

includes milk, juice & Tetra Pak cartons, drink boxes, paper hot beverage paper cups. DO NOT recycle foil pouches (i.e. Koolaid Jammers), aluminum foil lined containers (e.g. wine), etc.

Please remove food and rinse. DO NOT recycle broken glass, drinking glasses, dishes, cups, other ceramics, window glass, light bulbs, mirrors, pottery, glass pots & pans.

Aluminum/Steel Cans Plus Empty Aerosol/Paint Cans:

Household Paper/Newspaper, Catalogues, Books, and Telephone Books:

Please remove food and rinse. DO NOT recycle coat hangers, pots, needles, batteries and hazardous waste.

includes mail, white & coloured paper, envelopes, hard (remove the cover) and soft cover books, glossy publications, inserts/flyers. DO NOT recycle waxed, foil, laminated or gift wrap paper, or fast food waxed soft drink cups.

Aluminum Foil Containers and Foil: Pie plates, trays/baking pans and take-out food containers. Please remove/rinse food and flatten.

Paper Egg Cartons and Boxboard:

Plastic Bottles, Jugs and Tubs:

such as cereal, tissue, detergent, cracker and shoe boxes. Remove liners and flatten.

Now accepting more plastic household rigid containers and tubs with numbers 1 through 7 on the bottom of the container, including clamshells and cleaning product containers. 5

Cardboard Boxes: Break down, flatten and tie in bundles no larger than 75 cm x 75 cm x 20 cm (30” x 30” x 8”) and place beside black box. Please remove food residue and liners from pizza boxes.

DO NOT recycle toys, Styrofoam™, plastic wrap and bags, flowertrays, used oil containers, and unmarked plastics.

Note: Additional recycling boxes are available free of charge at all municipal centres.

Blue or Black Box Bloopers The following materials DO NOT belong in your Blue or Black Boxes:

Styrofoam™ Containers (foam containers like coffee cups, egg cartons and protective foam packaging)

Plastic Plant Pots and Trays

Foil pouches (i.e. Koolaid Jammers) Aluminum foil lined containers (i.e. wine), etc.

Waxed Boxboard (frozen food packaging, ice cream containers, etc.)

Shredded Paper Place in an un-tied plastic/paper grocery bag in or beside your fibre recycling box.

Space provided through a partnership between industry and Ontario municipalities and waste diversion programs.

Sports THE HERALD

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Page 9

Local college and university athletes to be shut out of winter sports this year Barry Wright The Herald

Corresponding announcements by the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) and Ontario University Athletics (OUA) are not good news for post-secondary student-athletes from Thamesville, Dresden and Bothwell. Both groups have shut down sanctioned sports through March 31, 2021 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the current restrictions put in place by

the Province of Ontario. “The health of the entire OCAA membership and our participants remains our top priority, and we empathize, understand, and share the deep disappointment this especially causes for our winter sport student-athletes,” said OCAA President, Nathan McFadden in a statement late last week. “After extensive contingency planning and collaborating with our members, the reality is that there are far too many obstacles to allow the OCAA to operate

while providing a safe and quality varsity experience for our studentathletes,” he added. Ontario University Athletics mirrored the college announcement last Thursday. “While we would love nothing more than to see our studentathletes back on the field of play and participating in OUAsanctioned competition during the second term, we are not yet at a place where that can occur safely,” stated Chatham’s Gord Grace, OUA President and CEO in a news

release of his own. “As disappointing as that reality is, I am confident that our participants will continue to demonstrate their resolve and determination through these exceptional circumstances and as we work toward an eventual safe return to competition. “A decision like this is never easy to make. To continue to uphold the health and safety of all participants, however, it remains a necessary step to take, and I commend the OUA Board

of Directors for their work and decision-making throughout this process.” Both groups left the door open for any of their member schools to schedule exhibition games or matches during the winter semester as long as they are given the thumbs up by governing sports bodies and local public health officials. The decisions involve several athletes from our region including those playing volleyball, basketball and hockey among others.

Finding information about government services now easier with 3-1-1 phone service in CK Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

The municipality has introduced a new 3-1-1 system residents can call to access information about local services and programs, or to

make a request for service. Over a year in the making, 3-1-1 is makes accessing services simpler. However, the 519360-1998 number will remain operational, if preferred. Officials say the municipality will

continue to focus on expanding customer online service options, as well as email, web chat, telephone service and social media platforms. Currently, Chatham-Kent fields about 500 requests for information and service each day.

Other important numbers include: · 211- Community and Social Services Helpline in Ontario · 311 – Chatham-Kent Services and Information · 411 – Canada’s People and

Business Directory · 511 – Ontario’s Travel Information · 611 – Direct access to mobile telephone service provider · 911- Emergencies requiring police, fire or ambulance

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ANNOUNCEMENTS Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. Exodus 20:8-10 (KJV) Please visit our website www.clda.ca for more information.Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. Exodus 20:8-10 (KJV) Please visit our website www.clda.ca for more information.

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WANTED CAR COLLECTOR SEARCHING ... I want your old car! Porsche 356/911/912, Jaguar E-Type or XKE. Tell me what you have, I love old classics especially German and British. Whether it's been in the barn for 25 years, or your pride and joy that is fully restored. I'll pay CASH. Call David 416-802-9999. WA N T E D : O L D T U B E A U D I O E Q U I P M E N T. 5 0 y e a r s o r o l d e r. A m p l i f i e r s , S t e r e o , Recording and Theatre Sound E quipm e n t . Ha mmo n d Or g a n s , any condition. CALL Toll-Free 1-800947-0393 / 519-853-2157. FIREARMS WANTED FOR DECEMBER 12th, 2020 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer's Auction: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609, sales@switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.

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The Herald

Page 10

Classifieds

Classified Deadline: Friday @ 12 noon

In Memory

BEAMISH

In loving memory of Betty Beamish, a dear mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who passed away five years ago on October 26, 2015. You are thought of everyday and are dearly missed. Always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts. Love your family

Card of Thanks

Marie Kelly

Passed away July 30, 2020 at Victoria Hospital, London

The family of the late Marie Kelly wish to extend our sincere thanks for many kindnesses. The condolences and the support that we received, from cards, flowers, and many phone calls. We would also like to send our gratitude and appreciation to the doctors and staff at Victoria Hospital for the great care and excellent friendship during Marie’s time with you.

Mom (Eleanor Hack) and family

Card of Thanks

Ronald

VALLIERES

Passed away July 1, 2020 at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital

The family of the late Ronald Vallieres would like to extend our sincere thank you for many kindnesses, and for the condolences and support that we have received. We would also like to send out our gratitude and appreciation to the staﬀ at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital for the wonderful care and friendship during Ronald’s time. Daughters Danielle Vallieres, Randelle Vallieres

Coming Events

MoBile Market: The Mobile Market will be in Thamesville, Bothwell, Ridgetown and Highgate on Wednesdays, and in Dresden on Thursdays. In Thamesville from 9:30-10:30am at the St.Paul’s Church parking lot. In Bothwell from 11 - 12noon at The Bothwell Legion. In Ridgetown from 2-3pm at the Ridgetown Legion. In Highgate from 12:30 - 1:30pm at the Highgate Lion’s Club. In Dresden from 10:30-11:30am at the Dresden Rotary Park. Come pick up a box of fresh fruit and veggies. Donations Welcomed.

IT’S TIME TO SING! Got Tuesday nights free? Then come and check out Jubilee Chorus and help make a joyful noise unto the Lord! Rehearsals begin on September 22 at St. Andrew’s United Church (85 William St. S, Chatham), 7 – 8:30 pm. Safety protocols will be in place and masks must be worn but that won’t dampen the fun and joy of being together making musical magic happen! New in town, or still unsure? That’s ok, try us for a week, see how it feels. Call Cynthia at 226-229-1533 if interested or needing more info.

Coming Events South Western Ontario Pork Producers Conference 2021 Due to the COVID-19 situation and all the uncertainties with the virus at this time, the SWOPC Planning Committee has made the tough decision to cancel the 59th annual SWOPC 2021. Plans will be to host a live event in 2022 and celebrate the conference’s 60th anniversary!

Notice The Bothwell Legion is OPEN. Hours are as follows: Monday - Friday at 3pm & Saturday at 12noon. All social distancing measures are in place. Gloves and masks are optional but will not be provided. We look forward to seeing you.

Help Wanted

Wanted part time 20-30 hrs per week bakery assistant $14.25 per hour, production incentives offered, position is seasonal till Dec 24th 2020. will train, no education required. Please apply in writing to Parks Blueberries 14815 Longwoods Rd, Bothwell ON N0P 1C0.

BLUEBERRY PRUNERS - Wanted part time/full time blueberry pruners $14.25 per hour, production incentives offered, season from mid March-early May, will train, no education required. Please apply in writing to Parks Blueberries 14815 Longwoods Rd, Bothwell ON N0P 1C0.

Help Wanted

WANTED

Wanted part time/full time strawberry pickers $14.25 per hour, production incentives offered, season from mid Oct-June, will train, no education required. Please apply in writing to Parks Blueberries 14815 Longwoods Rd, Bothwell ON N0P 1C0.

Farmland - Young Farmer looking to lease farmland to expand family farm. We have a focus on strong land stewardship, fairness in all business regards and with a long-term vision for the relationship and land. Different lease agreements available. Call Boekhorst Farms: Jack at 519-3598448.

WANTED WANTING TO RENT - Mature couple with secure incomes looking for small country home or mobile home with barn or shop nearby on quiet gravel road. Well behaved golden lab and good reference. Always do minor repairs myself. Call Robert at 548-9967714.

Notice THAMESVILLE LEGION - The Thamesville is open Thursday’s 3-7pm, Friday 3-8pm, and Saturdays 3-7pm. Meat Draws every Friday at 6pm. Everyone Welcome! Please Follow Covid-19 Protocols.

NOTICE Bothwell Community Boosters/ BARAC is offering a subsidy program for ice rentals at the Bothwell Area Sports Centre. Eligibility - Any individual or group that would like to run a new skating or hockey training program for youth or seniors. BARAC is offering a subsidy of $75. per hour to a maximum of 5 hrs. per week throughout the 2020/21 season. The subsidy will be granted on a first come basis and will be paid directly to the renter. To qualify you must call BARAC at 519- 401-7791, to see if your program meets the criteria and if the subsidy is still available. To book the ice you have to contact CK Rec. at ckrecfacilities@chathamkent.ca or call us at 519.360.1998 This program is made possible through our association with RIVERVIEW GAMING CENTER Chatham Ont.

Coming Events “Harvest Blessings” will be held at Grace Christian Church (26466 Bear Line Rd Dover Twp)on Saturday, October 31, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. under cover outside. Clothing, preserves, vegetables, food items, crafts. No baking. Items for sale by donation only. For info call 519-3540312

CANCELLED Due to Covid-19 the Thamesville Sertoma Club’s Halloween Home by 8 event is cancelled this year.

NOTICE FOUND - A ring of keys on the railroad tracks on Industrial Road north of Thamesville several weeks ago. For more information, call 519-683-4381.

Coming Events HALLOW-SCENES - Longwoods Road Conservation Area presents “Hallow-Scenes” on Thursday, October 29, 2020 from 7-9pm. Preregister. Numbers are limited. Admission is $10 per vehicle, cash on arrival. Family Friendly for all ages. For more information or to preregister call 519-2642420 between 9am - 4pm.

FOR SALE FROZEN PIES Turin U. C. W.. Frozen Pies - $10.00 -Apple, Blueberry, Cherry, Elderberry, Raisin & Rhubarb. To place orders and arrange pickup Phone Shirley @ 519-692-3226 or Marjorie @ 519-365-4095. Available year round. Prepared in an inspected kitchen.

Notice The Dresden Legion is OPEN. Hours are as follow: Tus, Fri and Sat 4-8pm. Also at this time we are not taking any Hall rentals. We do appreciate the inquiries. We have been directed by RCL Ontario Command that we are not to hold General Meetings at this time.

Coming Events Realty Connects Inc & Apollo Property Management & Development are hosting their 10th Annual Toy Drive for the Salvation Army. We will be accepting new unwrapped toys during the week of November 23rd – 27th from 9 am to 4 pm each day. Although this has been a very difficult year, we still want to bring smiles to the children of Chatham-Kent. Please help us fill our boxes to make sure no child goes without a Christmas this year. During this time we will be practicing safety measures for the prevention of Covid 19.

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Word Classifieds: $10.00 incl tax for up to 40 words Stop in at the office 10-3 M, 10-3 W, 10-3 F: 3 London Road Call: 519-692-3825 or email: heraldclassifieds@outlook.com

Birth Announcement

David Clement & Fanfei Gong are delighted to announce the birth of their daughter,

September 21, 2020

at St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Toronto

Lauren Gong Clement

7lbs • 9 oz

Welcomed by her big sister Isabelle Proud Grandparents Maurice & Christine (Coutts) Clement and Bin Gong & Lifang Cui Lauren is a great granddaughter of the late John McDermot & Mary Ellen Coutts who resided in Thamesville

NOTICE OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS AVAILABLE - Educators! Don’t miss our fall outdoor programs at Longwoods Road Conservation Area and Ska-Nah-Doht Village. Programs include: Balance & Biodiversity Trail Walk, Species at Risk Trail Walk, The Ska-Nah-Doht Experience Trail Walk, Traditional Pottery, and Builder, Gather Medicine Trail Walk. Call to make a booking at 519.264.2420, for further details: www.lowerthames-conservation.

Coming Events Halloween Pet Pictures - CK Animal Rescue is offering Halloween Pet Pictures! All proceeds to CK Animal Rescue. On October 24 from 10am - 4pm at Wallaceburg Pet Value 30 McNaghton Ave. $10 donation per picture. Call/Text 519-719-0425 to secure a spot. Pictures will be emailed digitally after taken.

Coming Events Chatham-Kent Children’s Services is having a Foster to Permanency Zoom Information night on Wednesday November 4, 2020 at 6:30pm. Please call CKCS at 519-352-0440 and ask to speak to a Recruitment Worker for mor information.

Coming Event The Gift - On November 21 at 12noon, we are inviting every resident in Chatham-Kent that can, to place a gift on their front step. A member of your community will pick it up and make sure everyone in your community has a Christmas. Every house will be stopping at, no registration required. There will be drop off depots for those living in rural areas.

Death Notices October 11 - October 17, 2020

Sunday, October 11 HAGGITH: Vern Age 73, of Chatham

PHILLIPS: Ralph Age 94, of Chatham

Alexander & Houle Funeral Home

FRIDAY, October 16

MONDAY, October 12

MURRAY: Jean Age 84, of Chatham

BIEBER: Jamie Age 38, of Highgate

McKinlay Funeral Home - Ridgetown

TUESDAY, October 13 McLEAN: Steven Robert Age 58, of Leamington Life Transitions

JAMIESON: Alexander Age 87, of Chatham

McKinlay Funeral Home - Chatham

WICKHAM: Wilf Of Chatham Life Transitions

Saturday, October 17 KERNOHAN: Nancy Anne Age 59, of Ridgetown

McKinlay Funeral Home - Ridgetown

McKinlay Funeral Home - Chatham

Wednesday, October 14 DUMAIS: Guy Joseph Age 69, of Chatham Life Transitions

For detailed information, please refer to the funeral home website listing.

THE HERALD

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

Classifieds

Classified Deadline: Friday @ 12 noon

Wabash

Community of Christ Pastor Jacomina Malott 519-692-3375 Church • 11:00 am

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Word Classifieds: $10.00 incl tax for up to 40 words Stop in at the office 10-3 M, 10-3 W, 10-3 F: 3 London Road Call: 519-692-3825 or email: heraldclassifieds@outlook.com

St. Andrew’s United Church - Cairo

Dresden Community Church

St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church

North Dresden Baptist Church

Louisville Baptist Church

Sunday Worship Online See our Youtube Channel Rev. Jim Breen

Sunday Worship Online

pccweb.ca/standrewsdresden

519-683-4892 ndbaptistchurch@gmail.com

Sunday Morning Worship

Sunday Worship @ 9am

jbreen@brktel.on.ca

Find us on Facebook for Digital Services

• Find us on Facebook •

(across from Dresden Foodland)

519-683-6541

519-683-2442 Sunday Worship Online See our Youtube Channel Rev. Andy Cornell • Find us on Facebook •

Pastor Chris Quiring Pastor Nichelle Howarth Rev. Linda McFadden

www.dresdencommunitychurch.com

• Find us on Facebook •

Sunday Worship Online Pastor: Gord Tetley • Find us on Facebook •

Rev. Gord Tetley

lvbchurch@gmail.com 519-358-5439 • Find us on Facebook •

Bothwell-Wabash United Church Rev. Annalee Kerr 178 Elm St., 519-695-2921