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The heat is on (again) at CKHA

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

The steam is pumping and the heat is on at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance’s Chatham site. Boiler problems caused temperatures at the facility to dip recently, and elective surgeries were postponed at times as well.

Adam Topp, president and CEO of CKHA, said the boilers at the hospital were earmarked for replacement next year, but

the units themselves had other ideas.

“Our boilers broke down last week (the week of Jan. 26). One stopped; one was having challenges,” he said. “The backup kicked in. We were still operational, but in a reduced capacity.”

As a result, elective surgeries took a hit.

steam comes a reduced ability to reprocess medical devices, especially sterilizing surgical equipment.

Bluewater Health and Erie Shores Health helped with the reprocessing “to minimize impact on surgeries,”

Topp added.

week, the cool down was felt.

“The heat to the hospital had been maintained, but it was not ideal,” Topp said. “Elective surgeries continued, but we just hadn’t done all the elective surgeries. And on Wednesday (Jan. 28), we cancelled all of them.”

boilers will be about a $4-million investment.

“It’s going to take some time to plan out,” Topp said. “Our original plan was to do an RFP for that about a year from now. I don’t have a specific plan yet, but it just moved up about a year.”

He estimated 75 elective surgeries were pushed back over the past couple of weeks due to the boiler issue.

Topp said the understanding of the issue from the public and staff was appreciated.

Topp said with less

A Roadmap Through Grief

McKinlay Funeral Home invites you to attend an informal information session designed to help you better understand grief and what it can look like over time. This session is not a counselling or healing group. Instead, it is an opportunity to:

• learn about common grief experiences.

• better understand what is considered normal in grief.

• gain perspective on how grief can change over time.

call

Equipment had to be hauled to and from Bluewater and Erie Shores to be reprocessed.

• feel more oriented and informed about the road ahead.

This complimentary session will be led by a Registered Social Service Worker, in partnership with the Manager of Community & Supportive Care Services with Chatham-Kent Hospice, who will speak about on going support programs. There is no expectation to share personal experiences - attendance is simply about learning in a supportive, relaxed setting. Refreshments will be provided.

Location: McKinlay Reception Centre 463 St. Clair Street, Chatham, ON

Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026 Time: 6:00pm - 8:00pm

A new temporary boiler arrived on site Jan. 30, Topp said. It’s now up and running, and the hospital is back to normal temperatures. But for more than a

“Temporary boiler systems are now in place, inspected, and operational. These systems have stabilized our operations and allowed us to move forward with confidence while we plan and implement permanent solutions,” Topp said.

It’s estimated replacing the

“To those patients and families who were affected by postponed procedures, I thank you for your understanding. To our staff, thank you for your extraordinary dedication. And to our community, thank you for your understanding and patience,” he said.

$382K infusion for health unit

The Ford government threw cash at 29 public health units, including CK Public Health, recently.

The 29 health units share $60.09 million in this onetime funding. Here in Chatham-Kent, CK Public Health received under $382,700.

According to a provincial

government media release, the funding is earmarked “to support local public health initiatives and service delivery priorities that respond to community needs.”

Chatham-Kent–Leamington MPP Trevor Jones said the funding illustrates the government’s ongoing “commitment to protecting public health and ensuring communities like Chatham-Kent have the resources they need to deliver essential services.

The funding will support a range of public health initiatives, allowing Public Health Units the flexibility to address pressing needs while maintaining effective service delivery at the local level, according to the media release.

Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault, a hard man for local media to track down, said through a media release that health units are essential parts of the communities they serve.

“Our government recognizes the vital role that public health units play in building healthier, more resilient communities,” he said in the release. “This one-time funding will help ensure frontline public health services remain strong and responsive to the needs of residents.”

According to officials at CK Public Health, “This was one-time funding we had requested, and were expecting, for planned initiatives for the 2025-26 fiscal year.”

Daniel Ouimette Funeral Director, Funeral Celebrant & R.S.S.W. with McKinlay Funeral Home

Melissa Cadarette Manager of Community & Supportive Care Services with Chatham-Kent Hospice

Adam Topp

The Chatham Voice

Westover celebrates 40 years

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

It was by chance that Brian Gallagher hap-

pened upon the house that would become the Westover Treatment Centre.

The London-based recovering alcoholic was on his way to speak at a 12-Step meeting in Dresden. When passing by the empty Victorian home, he saw a For Sale sign on the lawn.

The rest as they say, is history.

On Valentine’s Day, the facility will mark 40 years of success, with more than 23,000 people re-

HAPPY FAMILY DAY

ceiving treatment for alcoholism, addiction and co-dependency.

According to Westover executive director Laird Brush, Gallagher and his wife Nancy had originally hoped to open a centre in St. Mary’s at the Westover Inn. But that didn’t pan out and the road eventually led to Chatham-Kent.

“They just kind of stole the name,” Brush joked in a recent interview.

“That’s how Westover ended up in Thamesville.

I don’t know if its divine intervention or what, but I think it’s the ideal location for someone that’s trying to get sober in recovery.

“It isn’t Yonge Street in downtown Toronto. It’s a very holistic and calming setting. We’re surround-

ed by fields. It’s not like there’s a lot of hustle and bustle going on, so people can focus on recovery.”

Built in the 1870s for prominent Thamesville residents John and Sarah Ferguson, the Victoria Road structure was known as Tecumseh Hall. It has served as both a private residence and a nursing home.

Gallagher, who passed away in 2021, was supported in his life-long dream by his wife, as well as Bev Thompson and Jovit Mendonca. The founders forged ahead, securing funding from the Ontario government. They opened the doors in 1986 and volunteers pitched in, restoring the structure to its original glory.

Continued on page 4

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice Westover Treatment Centre in Thamesville is about to celebrate its 40th anniversary helping people get clean.

Mounds of ice on Lake Erie

Westover

turns 40

Continued from page 3

In a promotional video to celebrate the milestone, Thompson, 92, spoke about Westover’s origins.

“I hear that it is one of the finest treatment centres in the province of Ontario,” Thompson said. “I have absolutely nothing but gratitude for the opportunity that I had, for the vision that Brian Gallagher had, for the willingness to learn and for the people who came after.

“I’m just very grateful that I was surrounded by people, that if I was open to listen, they were open to give direction,” she added. “As a result, we were able to accomplish what we were able to accomplish.”

Initially, said Brush, Westover offered a 28day residential program for substance use disorder, but funding cuts shortened it to 19 days. However, the core of the program,

based on cognitive behaviour therapy combined with a 12-Step curriculum, remains the same.

Other programs and buildings have been added over the years. In 1990, a co-dependency program launched, aimed at helping the family and friends of people struggling with addiction – one of only two in Ontario. There’s also a stage two/relapse prevention program for alcoholics and addicts as well, as weekend programs for families.

Brush, who came through as a client in 2002, returned to Westover as a part-time worker in 2013. He became a counsellor and took over the reins as executive director in 2020.

The approach to treatment has evolved over the years from a peer-centred group dynamic to become more counselling based, he added, but the goal of abstinence remains the same.

“The bigger part of a client’s journey here is the work they do in program as opposed to the relationship they have with their counsellor,” he explained.

As for the future, Brush said he hopes Westover will continue to deliver the same high-quality programming it’s been providing for four decades.

“Hopefully, we’ll have 40 more years of doing exactly what we’ve been doing,” he said.

Mark Benoit/Special to The Chatham Voice

The winds and the waves on Lake Erie produced these 20-foot-high frozen hills of ice on the lake near Rondeau Park recently. They sit on top of shelf ice. As of the end of January, U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration officials said 94 per cent of Lake Erie was covered by ice, more coverage than at any point in the last 23 years.

Flex Plex opens

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

CK Flex Plex is open for busi-

ness.

At the grand opening last week, reporters were offered a first-hand look at the recently completed recreational facility on Merrit Avenue.

Located on the former Navistar property, the sparkling clean 3,440 square-metre (37,000 sq.ft.) facility is home to several courts for racket sports, an indoor soccer field, office space with a kitchen area and change rooms.

Owner Phillip Ong, a sports enthusiast who spearheaded the Chatham-Kent Recreation League two years ago, said he is just trying to “improve the community I live in.”

After moving to Chatham-Kent in 2023, the real estate developer said he noticed there was a “lack” of amenities for the things he wanted to do, and the idea was born.

Ong thanked Mayor Darrin Canniff, municipal staff and Don Tetrault of the Tatro Group helping make it happen.

“You gave us a lot of support in this,” Ong said. “Don happened to have the space available and the timing was right so here we are. It’s beautiful and we are very proud of what we’ve built here.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Chatham here.”

Conversion of the space from empty warehouse, owned by the Tatro Group, to recreational amenity happened quickly. According to Tetrault, all of the work, including installing special flooring and indoor turf, was completed in just two months’ time.

According to Ong, interest in the Flex Plex has been strong so far. A couple of tournaments, one for volleyball and one for soccer, have already taken place

and more are on the way.

“We have a lot of bookings from the soccer association and we have a few interested in pickleball,” he said, noting the Flex Plex is home to C-K’s first indoor soccer league for women and the first 30-plus adult league.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the facility is a great addition to Chatham-Kent.

“I’m so proud that Phillip, the owner, has stepped up here and recognized the need in the market and is filling it,” Canniff said. “You look around and he’s spent a lot of money putting this in place. We’re looking for-

ward to our community engaging with this. It’s one more piece of the recreational puzzle here in Chatham-Kent.”

In the future, Ong said the Flex Plex may expand outdoors to include outdoor soccer, volleyball and maybe a bar/restaurant area. If interested in learning more about CK Flex Plex, access ckflexplex. com.

Couples Float $99

Tickets Here ! Tickets Here!

Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice

Officials gathered recently to celebrate the opening of the new CK Flex Plex on Merrit Avenue in Chatham. Housed on the former Navistar site, the facility is offering a wide range of indoor sporting opportunities.

Cutting the ribbon are economic development officer Anthony Wilson; CAO Michael Duben; Mayor Darrin Canniff; owner Phillip Ong; Don Tetrault; Flex Plex marketing co-ordinator Shaina Miehl; and Ron Tetrault.

Opinion

Growth is good

Chatham-Kent is mired in contradictions.

“No tax increase.” “Don’t cut our services or close our arena.”

“We need more dust control.”

“Keep spending in check.”

“I hate potholes.” (Don’t’ we all?)

“Cut the lifecycle budgeting for infrastructure!”

You get the idea. There is a Yin to every Yang; an effect for every cause.

Despite the complainers, Chatham-Kent is a pretty awesome place to live. And people from outside the area are taking notice. Hence the population growth above the provincial average, as reported in this week’s paper.

We grew by 1.23 per cent population-wise from 2024 to 2025, according to Statistics Canada figures. We outpaced all of our neighbours too.

What is driving people to move here when some of us who call C-K home are busy whining about pretty much everything? According to the municipality’s Audrey Ansell, director of Community Culture and Connections, it’s how we are progressing.

“I don’t think there’s one particular driver...I think a big piece is the community we’re building. The recreational offerings, the cultural offerings, the proximity to lakes, the natural amenities that are already here, they’re all factors people look at

when they are considering where they want to raise a family.”

Some of that community building is done by the municipality; other work has been done by the likes of Phillip Ong. He’s the guy behind the CK Flex Plex indoor recreation facility on Richmond Street.

On one side, we have people clamouring to do nothing, change nothing and embrace the status quo, despite the fact that our status quo is crumbling around us.

But roads need to be maintained.

Ditto for buildings. To ignore maintenance is to let things crumble (see the Civic Centre).

A new park? A new tennis bubble? These are not evil. They help draw interest to Chatham-Kent by providing residents here with more to do.

For spring, summer and fall, Chatham-Kent is bursting at the seams with events and things to do. We are a municipality with incredible destinations, especially along the shorelines of two massive bodies of water. But when the weather turns cold and the sun seemingly vanishes behind cloud for months on end, our people need outlets.

Thankfully, the tennis bubble, a host of casual sports leagues, and now the Flex Plex are options.

We need to grow, to advance, but grow intelligently.

Our letters to the editor policy

The Chatham Voice welcomes letters to the editor. Our preferred method to receive letters is via e-mail to bruce@

chathamvoice.com (use “Letter” in the subject line). All letters need to be signed.

Chatham Voice advertising policy

The publisher of this newspaper, CK Media Inc., reserves the right to clarify or refuse any advertisement based on its sole discretion. The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement without notice or penalty to either party. Liability for errors or non-insertion is limited to the amount paid for the cost of space occupied by the error. Claims of errors must be made prior to the next publication date.

It’s time to start giving a damn, people

Editor: On a recent afternoon on Richmond Street, from my shop window I watched a homeless man lay in the middle of the road. I watched dozens of cars swerve around him. Not one stopped. If you were one of those drivers, you should be ashamed of yourself.

I ran over and helped him to the sidewalk. He couldn’t walk more than a few steps without his legs giving out. I called the police, who took him to Hope Haven where he could get warm and get himself figured out. Now, I’m not sharing this story for praise or a pat on the back, but because I can’t stop thinking about all those drivers who passed him by.

If that had been a dog lying in the road, how many would have

stopped to help? I’m willing to bet half of them would have pulled over immediately. They would have blocked traffic, made a scene, rushed the animal to a vet.

But it was a man. A human being. So they just kept driving.

I’m writing this because I’m disgusted with what we’ve become. This “not my problem” attitude that’s infected our society like a disease. The casual selfishness. The entitlement that lets us drive past someone in need because stopping would be inconvenient. When did we decide that other people’s suffering wasn’t our concern? When did we learn to look right through the most vulnerable among us?

I don’t have solutions to homelessness, addiction, mental illness, or any of the other crises that put that man in the road. These are massive, complicated problems that need systemic change. But I know this much: We could start by giving a damn. By recognizing that the person lying in the road is someone’s son, maybe someone’s father. By understanding that so many of us are just one or two bad decisions away from walking in this man’s shoes. By understanding that “not my problem” is exactly how we got here. Maybe if we all cared just a little bit more, that would be something. It’s not much. But it’s a start.

Rick Gardiner Chatham

Mayor, wife visit Gambia on own dime

Editor: I am writing to share details of a recent volunteer trip I took to The Gambia through the Rotary Club of Chatham Sunrise, which I thought might be of interest.

Our delegation included myself, my wife Christine, and 12 other residents mostly from Chatham-Kent.

The Gambia, located on the west coast of Africa, is the continent’s smallest mainland country and is known for its strong sense of community, rich culture, and significant development challenges, particularly in rural areas.

During the trip, we visited Kerr Demba Gambu School in the region of Kuntaur. While there, we met with local government officials, village elders, teachers and, most importantly, the school children themselves. These meetings provid-

ed valuable insight into the daily realities of the community and helped strengthen relationships that Rotary has been building in the region.

Our delegation brought with us, or shipped in, tangible supports for the school and village, including 30 water filtration units, 60 bicycles, 60 school desks, 160 backpacks, and a variety of teaching aids.

We also provided monetary support for the future drilling of a bore hole for a freshwater well. These resources will have a direct and lasting impact on access to clean drinking water, education, and daily life for students and families in the area.

We’ve already heard that enrolment in the school has increased significantly since our visit, which is amazing. I would also like to

Taxpayers

should have the final word

Editor: Chatham-Kent council has shown even they cannot make a decision, as a issue that was an 8-8 tie, PUC governance. This issue will cost billions, as stated in the newspapers, must be sent to taxpayers for a vote. A good time for this vote and levy would be when the civic election occurs with just some more words on the ballot

at no extra cost.

The electorate, in these days when misinformation is forefront, must decide an outcome that would be an albatross around the neck of all taxpayers.

The city council is not the final word; it is the ratepayers and taxpayers.

Wayne

Robertson Chatham

acknowledge and thank the local businesses that helped sponsor and support this initiative: Winmar, Schinkels’ Gourmet Meats, and Krunal Patel from our local Shoppers Drug Mart stores. Their generosity played an

important role in making this trip possible.

On a personal level, this volunteer experience was deeply meaningful. The connections we made with residents, local officials, and especially the children were gen-

uine and lasting. It was a powerful reminder of how much impact can be made through direct engagement, listening, and showing up with both humility and purpose. It really struck me that, for so many reasons, we’re all truly privileged to call Chatham-Kent our home.

And, of course, for the sake of full transparency and to avoid any rumours, I can confirm that Christine and I paid entirely out of our own pocket for our involvement in the trip.

Darrin Canniff Mayor

Celebrate C-K’s heritage

Feb.

By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com

Chatham-Kent is rich in heritage. Unfortunately, not everyone here seems to be aware of just how rich.

The municipal heritage committee is set on opening eyes and gaining support for pre-

21

serving C-K heritage where possible.

Organizers are putting together a municipal heritage day, followed on its heels by the Mayor’s Heritage Preservation Awards.

Both events take place Feb. 21 at Retro Suites in downtown Chatham.

Heritage committee member Jim Griffin said the planning has been underway for nearly a year.

“We started planning last March,” he said of the awards, which take place at 6 p.m.

There are four categories, with three finalists in each, and there is also a people’s choice award.

Griffin said 34 properties were nominated for the awards. Judging took place in November.

The awards have been on hiatus for about a decade, Griffin said. The committee had begun work to revive them just before the pandemic hit. Covid put the awards on the back shelf.

But now they’re back, along with a day-time event that is open to all ages.

“If we’re going to do the heritage awards, why don’t we do something different and have a heritage day,” Griffin said. “We approached all of the historical and heritage groups in Chatham-Kent. Everyone is

on board. It will be quite a mix and a really good event for the day.”

Bring the kids, he said.

“We want to encourage families to bring their kids. We have some activities for them,” Griffin said.

Included is colouring, where a computer program had taken some of the heritage properties in C-K and turned them into line drawings.

“The children can colour in heritage homes,” he said.

Heritage Act and if your property could be a candidate for designation

Meet local authors, hear their stories, and purchase copies of their books about Chatham-Kent.

“We approached all of the historical and heritage groups in Chatham-Kent. Everyone is on board. It will be quite a mix and a really good event for the day.”

- Jim Griffin

There will also be family tree charts that will allow kids to start building their family tree.

The day’s festivities are free, thanks to the support of sponsors Waste Connections Canada, Adana Law and the Thamesvlle Sertoma Club.

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For adults, the day offers nearly two dozen displays from the Municipal Heritage committee and other historical and heritage groups.

Learn how to join a local heritage organization in your community.

Examine photos, hear stories, check out interactive displays.

Find out how to designate a property under the Ontario

And for heritage-designated property owners, chat with heritage contractors.

That evening, the awards dinner costs $25 per ticket and it is a 19-plus age-restricted event.

The meet and greet begins at 6 p.m. with dinner served at 6:30 p.m.

Griffin said people often don’t realize how rich C-K’s history is, and how so much of it remains. A survey conducted in 2016 looked at heritage properties that were more than 100 years old. Griffin said the results showed Chatham-Kent ranked fifth in all of Canada for the number of buildings more than a century old – 5,814 of them.

“That’s double the provincial average. There is a lot of built heritage here,” Griffin said. “The goal is to get as many (properties as possible) designated under the Ontario Heritage Act.”

Continued on page 10

Chatham Voice photo

Chatham-Kent Heritage committee members Lindsay Swackhammer, left, and Jim Griffin spent much of the warmer part of 2025 visiting outdoor events around the municipality to showcase the rich heritage that Chatham-Kent possesses. The committee is holding a heritage day on Feb. 21 to coincide with that evening’s Mayor’s Heritage Preservation Awards.

January chills home sales

The Chatham Voice

Apparently, Mother Nature shared her chill for January with the local housing market.

Figures from the Chatham-Kent Association of Realtors (CKAR) show that home sales dipped by 15 per cent in January, as compared to January 2025.

That represents a drop

in 13 sales, as 74 units changed hands last month.

That translates to a drop in about six per cent as compared to the five- and ten-year averages for the month of January.

Carrie Patrick, president of CKAR, said sales had not been that sluggish in a year.

“January MLS home sales were lower than a

year ago, marking the slowest month we’ve seen since February 2025. The number of newly listed homes also slipped year over year,” she said in a media release.

The number of homes on the market is up, however.

“We did see a modest post-holiday rebound from December, bringing supply more in line with

seasonal norms,” Patrick said. “Active listings remained elevated compared to long-term averages for the month, which was welcome news for buyers looking to jump into the market, as it gave them more choice than they’ve usually have in a typical January.”

Still, the number of new listings saw a decline of 15 per cent from January

2025. There were 153 new residential listings last month.

New listings were 1.7 per cent below the five-year average but 19.4 per cent above the 10-year average for the month of January.

In terms of what sold last month, prices are up.

“On the pricing side, the average price reached its highest level since January 2025 and ranked

among the highest levels seen in any January on record. With rates appearing to hit bottom for now and the spring market right around the corner, we’re heading into 2026 with cautious optimism,” Patrick said.

The average price of homes sold in January 2026 was $449,774, down by 3.2 per cent from January 2025.

Heritage designation a boon: Griffin

Continued from page 8

He said that act is a boon, not a burden, and wants to dispel the wild rumours that circulate over heritage designations. He’s heard of cases where people think

their taxes will go up just because of such a designation, or that an owner is severely restricted in how they can renovate.

“We help dispel some of the myths. We had one lady from Toronto. She

told us friends had told her to not buy a heritage-designated building (in Tupperville) because you’d have to get permission from council to put a nail in the wall to hang a picture,” Griffin said.

“They bought it anyway and looked into the history of the property and were quite surprised.”

And they put up pictures wherever they wanted.

The committee has tak-

en their message on the road, to events such as the Dresden Night Market, Tilbury’s Art in the Park, Hot Rods for Hospice in Ridgetown, and elsewhere.

“We’re just trying to ed-

ucate the public. Heritage designation – the benefits outweigh the bad stuff,” Griffin said. “Word’s getting around. You’ve got to appreciate your heritage.”

Chatham-Kent continues to grow quickly: Stats Can

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Despite economic uncertainty, 2025 was a good year for growth in Chatham-Kent.

Estimates based on recently released data from Statistics Canada show the population rose to 113,070 as of July 1 last year. That’s a 1.23-percent hike over 2024 –marking the fastest single-year growth in more than 20 years.

The municipality also led the way in growth in the region, outpacing neighbouring municipalities. Ontario’s average growth was 0.7 per cent last year, with Windsor growing 0.83 per cent, London at 0.98 per cent, and Sarnia seeing a 0.17-per-cent increase.

Folks moving to Chatham-Kent from other parts of Ontario was the primary driver of growth, accounting for a 16.7-per-cent net increase – the second highest increase since 2001. Notably, 26 per cent of new arrivals are children and youth under the age of 15, showing that Chatham-Kent is appealing to young families.

Audrey Ansell, director of Community Culture and Connections for Chatham-Kent, said the recent data “speaks volumes” about what the municipality has to offer.

“It’s a combination of

things,” Ansell told The Chatham Voice regarding the population hike.

The relative affordability of housing compared to other communities and an increase in recreational opportunities are helping attract residents, Ansell said, noting remote workers and entrepreneurs comprise a significant percentage of Chatham-Kent’s newest residents. The municipality’s mild climate and variety of choices in education are other important draws.

Ethno-cultural opportunities are also significant, she said, noting that new arrivals who have a positive experience often encourage others to relocate here.

“It’s not just one organization or one municipal department, it’s an entire community response,” Ansell stressed. “You might get somebody to come here for a job but how they connect in the community, and how they feel about they do besides the 9 to 5, is important. The community

does all of that.”

The recent population increase reverses a trend that saw C-K experience a 6.6 per cent population loss in the years from 2001 to 2015. But beginning in 2016, Chatham-Kent’s numbers increased by 8,477 residents, equaling an 8.1-per-cent growth rate.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the numbers reflect long-term efforts to position Chatham-Kent as a place where people can build their future.

“This data confirms what we are seeing on the ground every day: more families are choosing Chatham-Kent as a place to live, work, invest, and raise their children,” the mayor said in a media release. “Our strong population growth, combined with rising incomes, shows that Chatham-Kent is competitive, affordable, and increasingly attractive within Southwestern Ontario.”

Other economic indicators further reinforce this positive trend. In 2023, which is the most recent data available, median personal income in Chatham-Kent increased by 5.4 per cent, surpassing the national growth rate of 4.4 per cent. Between 2018 and 2023, median total income per person in Chatham-Kent rose by 20 per cent, reflecting steady economic improvement for residents.

Ironwood Trail, Chatham

Constitutional challenge over bills

First Nations set to take province, feds to court over Bill 5 and Bill C 5

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com

Walpole Island First Nation (WIFN) has joined a constitutional challenge aimed at quashing Ontario’s Bill 5.

The recent announcement means Bkejwanong Territory (WIFN) joins a growing chorus of First Nation communities and environmental groups opposed to changes proposed by both the federal and provincial government’s omnibus legislation.

As part of Ontario’s Bill 5 passed in June 2025, the government reversed its decision to place an environmental assessment on the controversial York1 landfill project at Dres-

den. Under the Protect Ontario by Unleashing the Economy Act, Premier Doug Ford said the landfill expansion is necessary to protect Ontario in the event U.S. President Donald Trump closes the border to Ontario’s garbage. Currently, Michigan and New York accept a significant portion of the province’s waste.

life on their home territories, the environment, human freedom as well as the right to take part in decisions affecting their land and lives.

In a media release, WIFN Chief Leela Thomas said the band will continue to fight the landfill expansion.

“Bill 5’s removal of the requirement for an environmental assessment of the proposed Dresden landfill is a direct threat to my community’s wellbeing and our ability to continue to practice our way of life.”

- WIFN Chief Leela Thomas

As part of the Ontario Superior Court lawsuit, First Nations groups say both government bills “severely threaten” their way of

of life,” Thomas stated. “We won’t stop fighting these laws until we are assured that our voices will be heard and respected when it comes to developing projects in our homeland territory.”

York1 officials claim they are within their rights to proceed, based on an existing landfill license. However, that license is more than 40 years old.

include a long list of environmental defenders, as well as Ontario’s opposition party leaders.

Also joining the Superior Court challenge are Nature’s Defense; Sierra Club Canada and the International Human Rights Program at the University of Toronto Henry N.R. Jackman Faculty of Law.

“We won’t stop fighting these laws until we are assured that our voices will be heard and respected when it comes to developing projects in our homeland territory.”

- WIFN Chief Leela Thomas

the federal and provincial governments’ hands, clearing the way for largescale projects without proper analysis or consultation.

“They (the bills) were rushed through and passed over the objections of First Nations and leadership across the country with almost no input or participation with First Nations,” the document said.

Backlash against the landfill expansion located on Irish School Road north of town has been vigorous. Its opponents

According to the challenge, which now includes 14 First Nation bands, the bills (the federal government’s Bill C 5 is also listed) concentrate “almost unrestricted power” in

In November, York1 launched a legal challenge against the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, alleging the company does not need environmental planning or zoning changes to proceed, which is directly in conflict with what C-K officials said is needed. The matter remains before the courts.

HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS

Human sex trafficking is one of Canada’s fastest growing crimes, and is a complex and often hidden crime that involves treating victims like possessions that can be bought and sold. And it’s happening here in our own community of Chatham-Kent

Traffickers target vulnerable teens through luring, coercion, manipulation and exploitation – promising money, opportunity, love, stability and popularity.

The average age of recruitment into sex trafficking is 13 years old.

Approximately two-thirds of human trafficking victims identified by police are under the age of 25. Approximately 58% of police-reported human trafficking cases in Canada occur in Ontario.

Safety Planning:

1 - Trust your judgment/instincts

• If someone promises you something that seems too good to be true, the situation may likely be different than described.

• If someone makes you feel uncomfortable with their words or actions, trust how you feel.

• If an environment, location, or situation makes you nervous, try to remove yourself.

• If your partner asks you to do things you do not like, are worried about, or uncomfortable with, tell that person that you do not like it.

- Allow a trusted friend, relative, or other person to keep you safe

• Let them know when you have concerns about your situation.

• Set up safety words with this trusted person that you can use to let them know it is safe to talk, or you are not safe and need assistance. Create actions that you would like them to do if you use a certain safety word.

• Keep your trusted person’s contact info with you at all times.

3 - Keep all your important documents & identification

• Nobody has the right to take or hold your personal documents

• Make photocopies and keep them in a safe place that you can access, consider giving copies to your trusted person.

4. - Try to keep control and possession of some way to to access your money

MORTGAGES / LOANS

• Keep possession of a cellphone if possible. If keeping your phone is difficult, have a prepaid calling card to use as a back-up plan.

• Try to maintain access to your bank account or another safe way of obtaining money, especially for emergency use.

5 - Contact responsible organizations for assistance

• Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.

• Contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline 1-833-900-1010 for referrals to services and supports (such as shelters, medical assistance, legal advice, emergency transportation, etc.).

Human Trafficking Human Trafficking

No change for PUC oversight

By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative

pamwrightlji@gmail.com

A move to bring the Chatham-Kent Public Utilities Commission (PUC) into the municipal fold has fallen short.

At least for now.

As the result of an 8-8 tie vote, a multi-pronged mo-

tion to dissolve the PUC and bring it under the governance of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent as a separate department was defeated. It means the PUC will continue to oversee C-K’s water and wastewater services.

The decision was reached at a special Feb. 2 council meeting, held to decide

how the PUC should be governed in the future.

C-K administration, as well as PUC general manager Darren Galbraith, were in support of the governance change.

Wallaceburg Coun. Carmen McGregor, current chair of the PUC board, said she couldn’t get behind the recommended

change due to a lack of information, particularly around finances.

“If I as the chair, don’t feel comfortable that I have been provided enough information,” McGregor said in her comments. “If I’m not feeling comfortable, I don’t know how the rest of you are feeling comfortable. In my posi-

tion, I feel responsible and I don’t feel I have enough information.”

McGregor pointed out her stance isn’t for political gain as she is not running for council in 2026.

Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey told council she was on the same page as McGregor, saying the information provided to council lacked detail.

under the municipality’s umbrella. “I don’t think this decision weighs heavily on the taxpayer.”

Mayor Darrin Canniff also chimed in, saying he supported the governance change, stating experts on the special advisory committee would offer support to council in the decision-making process.

“I felt that we have not received a lot of the information that we had asked for,” Storey said. “We received a lot of high-level information but nothing really that detailed.”

Other changes proposed in the motion were discussed.

“If I as the chair, don’t feel comfortable that I have been provided enough information. If I’m not feeling comfortable, I don’t know how the rest of you are feeling comfortable. In my position, I feel responsible and I don’t feel I have enough information.”

Throughout the meeting, officials pointed out the governance change would not impact ratepayers. However, the change would see the transfer of billions of dollars’ worth of property and infrastructure to the municipality.

- Coun. Carmen McGregor

The fact that the PUC needs more staff to do necessary work – regardless of the governance model – was examined.

In a 12-4 vote, council sent the staffing issue back to the PUC.

It’s estimated that 11 new employees are needed to complete ongoing work at a cost of $2.2 million – regardless of the governance model.

The creation of a special PUC advisory board to assist council with decision making, was also discussed, but no clear consensus was reached on what that body would look like or how it would conduct its work.

In speaking to the motion, West Kent Coun. Lauren Anderson, who also sits on the PUC board, said that while she respects McGregor, she disagreed with her position.

“This is one of the biggest decisions we’re ever going to make,” Anderson stressed, adding she supports bringing the PUC

The recommendation to change the PUC’s governance comes on the heels of a two-year process. In 2024, consulting firm KPMG was commissioned to examine the water and wastewater governance issue. The resulting report recommended the change, saying it would simplify decision making and oversight.

The KPMG report came to council last December, which led to McGregor asking for a special meeting before adopting the recommendations.

Early in 2025, a separate review by Municipal VU Consulting for the PUC’s water and wastewater master plan stated the organizational relationship between the municipality and the PUC inhibited co-ordinated decision making. According to administration, forecasts indicate Chatham-Kent’s water infrastructure needs some $1.18 billion in investment over the next 10 years to meet residential growth and greenhouse demand.

Comedy, adult fun coming to St. Andrew’s

Four performances of the musical comedy, “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change: The Musical” will be presented by a Chatham-Kent cast in the sanctuary of St. Andrew’s United Church this month, The shows take place Feb. 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 7 p.m.

“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change: The Musical” is presented in the form of a series of witty vignettes and catchy songs connected by the

theme of love and relationships. It takes a candid look at the joys, frustrations and unexpected moments that come with dating, marriage and everything in between. It explores the complexities of love, from awkward first dates to the trials of longterm commitment, St. Andrew’s personnel said. Whether you are single, married or at another stage of a relationship, the show offers something for everyone – celebrating the triumphs and pitfalls of romantic relationships with humour, charm, and

a bit of nostalgia.

“This cleverly written production includes everything you have secretly thought about dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives and in-laws but were afraid to admit,” the media release stated.

First produced in 1995, it is the second-longest running off-Broadway musical. It has been translated into 17 languages and has played in almost every major city around the world.

Directed by experienced theatre director Christine

Baribeau with musical direction by Devon Hansen, the production features a stellar cast of local performers.

The content is not suit-

able for those under 18 years of age. Tickets ($30) are available at the church office or online at www. standrewschatham.org/ events. Proceeds support St. Andrew’s music and arts programs. Seating is limited, so purchase your tickets soon. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

The Chatham Voice

Contributed image

Cast members rehearse for “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change: The Musical” in advance of the four-show run at St. Andrew’s Church Feb. 13, 14, 20 and 21.

Community Events

Thursday, February 12, 2026:

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. open 11:00am9:30pm. Kitchen open 11:00am1:30pm. Senior euchre at 1:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.

• Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St. open 2:30-10:30pm. Pool League.

• Music Jam from 1-4 at the Merlin Legion. Donations welcome. Bring out your singing voice and instruments to have a great afternoon!!

• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available.

Friday, February 13, 2026:

• Learn to Juggle with Larry. Chatham Branch Meeting Room of the CKPL. 2:00-3:00pm. Registration required. For Ages 16+. The program will introduce the basics of juggling. Call 519-3542940, email cklibrary@chatham-kent.ca or text 519-401-7174.

• 6:30pm. CK Pride Sex toy Bingo at Bill’s Place, 48 Centre St. Tickets $20. Food available for purchase. 18+ event. Limited tickets. RSVP info@ckpride.com

• Performing Arts at St. Andrew’s presents The Musical – “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” at 7pm at St. Andrew’s United Church in Chatham. Not suitable for those under 18 years. $30.00, available at the Church office or at www.standrewschatham.org/tickets. Doors open 6:30pm. For info, please call the church office at 519-352-0621.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm, supper 4:00-6:00pm. Tonight’s specials are pork roast or fish & chips, $15.00(HST included). Take out available, call 519351-8733 or 519-351-5639. 5:15pm Catch-The-Ace draw (tickets can be purchased at the bar). Fun Darts 7:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.

• Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St. open 3-10pm. Open darts and pool 7pm.

• Merlin Legion Scrumptious Merlickin’ Pork Chops $17.50, scallop potato & side, plus dessert. Served 4:30–7pm at Merlin Legion. Contact 519-689-4884 for more info. Take out also available.

• Join the Active Lifestyle Centre’s Bingo for fun! $3 for members, $6 for non-members. Win non-cash prizes! 1pm-3pm. 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham 519-352-5633.

• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials. Friday night supper is a chicken parmagian with pasta, caesar salad and bun. Dine ins $14 and pickups $15. Please call 519-352-8291 to order. Everyone welcome.

Saturday, February 14, 2026:

• Performing Arts at St. Andrew’s presents The Musical – “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change” 7pm at St. Andrew’s United Church. Content not suitable for under 18 years. $30.00, available at the Church office or online at www.standrewschatham.org/tickets. Doors open at 6:30pm. For info, please call the church office at 519-352-0621.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 10:00am-9:30pm. Line Dancing lessons 10:00am-12 noon. Meat draws 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. Kitchen open 3:00pm5:30pm. Check out our menu. Entertainment by Big City 4:30-9:30 pm. Members & non-members welcome.

• Valentine’s Day Lasagna Dinner & Dance in support of St Paul’s Church at The Old Czech Hall, 116 St. John St. Dresden. 6pm Dinner, 7pm Dance. $25/ person in advance, $30 at door. $10 cover charge for dance only. Live Music by Jacklyn Wills & Band. Tickets: McKellars Flowers & Gifts or Thamesville Home Hardware. Call or text 519-6929662, Email pmphoto@porchlight.ca.

• The Baha’i Community of Chatham -Kent invites you to a musical fireside with Jack Lenz and friends. There will be a potluck dessert, with tea and coffee served. 1:00pm-5:00pm. St. Clair College, Thames Campus Arena, 999 Grand Ave. W., Chatham, second floor.

• Cupid’s Night – Legends Live – Dinner Show in support of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation. Everest Convention Centre, Chatham. Call 519-355-0806. $65.00. Doors 6:00pm. Dinner 7:00pm. Show 8:00pm.

• Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St. open 10:30-6:00pm. Euchre, extra Meat Draws. Kitchen open 2:30-5:00pm with extra valentine prizes.

• Valentine’s Day Craft Show upstairs in our Jeanne Gordon Hall. Free admission to the craft show and the museum! Wallaceburg and District Museum, 505 King Street, Wallaceburg. 10am–3pm.

Sunday, February 15, 2026:

• All You Can Eat Brunch 10-1:00 pm at the Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St. Country Jamboree 2-5pm.

• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge 9am-noon. All meals are cooked to order. Jamboree 1-5 pm, $5. Come, listen and dance to the great sounds of Hired Hand. Everyone welcome. 850 Richmond St, Chatham.

Monday, February 16, 2026:

• Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St. open 6:30-9:30. Pepper only at 7:00pm.

• Chatham-Kent Public Library is open on Family Day. Chatham Branch has Family Day Library Olympics! Ridgetown Branch has a Story and Skate at Ridgetown Arena. Ridgetown and Highgate Branches have “Minute to Win It Game Day”. Tilbury Branch has a “Seed Bombs” program. Wallaceburg Branch has board games, LEGO, scavenger hunts, crafts. Merlin Branch is hosting board games and family art projects.

• Family Day At The Museum. Brick Builder challenges using LEGO. Admission is free. 10am-4pm. Baldoon Wagon Run – Industries Of Wallaceburg. 10am. A seated storytelling experience like no other. $15 per person ($10 for museum members). Wallaceburg and District Museum 505 King Street.

Tuesday, February 17, 2026:

• Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper at Christ Anglican Church, 80 Wellington St. W. 5:00pm-6:30pm. All you can eat pancakes w/ sausage, beverage & dessert for $15.00 adults, children under 10 Free. Tickets available at the church office (519-352-1640) or at the doors.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. open 11:00am9:30pm. Kitchen open 11:00am–1:30pm. Today’s special spaghetti w/ meat sauce. Euchre 1:00pm, evening shuffleboard & euchre at 7:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.

• Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper from 5-7pm. St. James Anglican Church, 719 James St., Wallaceburg. $8 Adults, 6-12 yrs $3, Under 5 free. Proceeds to Interchurch Vacation Bible Camp. For info contact 519-627-6325 or 519-627-1013.

• The Common Grounds Cafe is open to the public! 10:30am-1:30pm. Soup/ Sandwich combos for $10! Located in the heart of the Active Lifestyle Centre. 20 Merritt Ave, Chatham.

Wednesday, February 18, 2026:

• Chatham-Kent Coin Club meeting at John McGregor Secondary School Library (7pm – 8pm) 300 Cecile Ave Chatham. New Members/guests welcomed. For info contact President Paul Robb (probb1@cogeco.ca) (289-228-2817).

• Wabash Women’s Institute Euchre parties. Wabash Hall – 1 pm. Admission $5. Prizes/lunch/fun.

• Heart Buddies Meeting. 3rd Wednesday of each month, 465 Grand Ave, W, 6:30 pm. For info call 519-354-0070.

• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am-9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Daily special is meatloaf dinner. Fun Darts at 7:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.

• Tilbury Legion, 4 Stewart St. open 5:30-10pm. Pool League 6pm.

Fun Stuff

62. Hong Kong food stall __ pai dong 63. Opposite of beginning

CLUES ACROSS

1. Breezed through 5. Consumer protection agency

8. Criminal syndicate

11. Moves back from 13. Satisfaction

14. Feel concern or interest

15. Monetary units

16. Congressman (abbr.)

17. Israeli city

18. Restaurants 20. 2,000 lbs. 21. Grandmother 22. North, South and Central 25. In an early way 30. Foes

31. Social networking platform

32. Early term for basketball player

33. Another name for sesame plant

38. Disallow

41. Provide greater detail

43. Inaccessible

45. Evoke emotions

47. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea

49. Celtic punk rockers

50. A fencing sword

55. Actor Idris

56. Affirmative (slang)

57. Afflicted in mind or body

59. One point north of northeast

60. Born of

61. Social media hand gesture

More quickly

An idea accepted as a demonstrable truth

Shrewdly

Rooney and Kate are two 9. Mediterranean port

10. Benedictine monk

12. Midway between south and southeast

14. Town in Galilee

19. Satisfy

23. Mice genus

24. Brass instrument

25. Chest muscle (slang)

26. Transmits genetic information from DNA

27. Records electric currents generated by the brain

28. Woman (French)

29. Short route aircraft

34. Pitching statistic

35. Pointed end of a pen

36. Popular sports league

37. Body part

39. Inoffensive

40. Yellowish cotton cloth

41. Feline

42. Does not tell the truth

44. Seduced

45. Spiritual leader

46. Abba __, Israeli politician

47. Repair

48. Olive genus

51. Swiss river

52. Prejudice

53. C. European river

54. Keep under control

58. Father

Email function

CLUES DOWN

Sign language

Fashionable

Borough in Helsinki

Inability to hear

Cops, CKHA launch MART

The Chatham Voice

A new two-year pilot project to address addiction concerns is hitting the streets in Chatham-Kent.

Dubbed MART, which stands for Mobile Addictions Response Team, the initiative is a partnership between the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and the Chatham-Kent Police Service.

The MART collaboration will see a plain-clothes officer and a CKHA addictions therapist attend calls involving mental health and addiction concerns within the community.

Providing a rapid response to addiction-related concerns is MART’s goal.

“The idea is to be proactive and take an upstream approach to both mental health and addiction,” said CKPS Insp. Mike Thompson, noting the new team mirrors the CKPS Mobile Crisis Team that’s been operating successfully for 10 years. The crisis team is designed primarily to handle incidents involving mental health.

“Both programs work in tandem with each other,” Thompson said. “We know that both mental

health and addiction are conjoined, so that is why we have modelled the new program off the established and successful Mobile Crisis team. Both teams will support each other, focusing on wellness, recovery and support, not necessarily enforcement.”

CKPS Chief Kirk Earley echoed Thompson.

“As a community, we continue to see the impact that addiction and mental health have on individuals, families and neighbourhoods across Chatham-Kent,” Earley said in a news release.

“By partnering with the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, we are able to bring together front-line policing and specialized clinical support in a way that provides timely intervention, compassionate care and meaningful pathways to treatment.”

From a health-care perspective, CKHA emphasizes the importance of meeting people where they are and reducing barriers to care.

“At Chatham-Kent Health Alliance, we recognize that addiction is a complex health issue that requires compassion, trust, and strong

partnerships,” said Caen Suni, CKHA’s vice-president of clinical programs and operations. “Through this program, we are bringing care directly into the community, improving access to timely support, and reinforcing our commitment to putting people at the centre of everything we do.”

The program is being funded through the province’s Mobile Crisis Response Team Enhancement Grant. The CKPS

The South Kent Wind Community Fund Advisory Committee Has Positions Available

We are currently seeking applications from community-minded volunteers interested in accepting, reviewing, and evaluating grant applications received from charitable and qualifying non-profit groups in Chatham-Kent. Committee members are required to meet twice annually to review applications received in the spring and the fall of each year. Members of the advisory committee commit to serving for two years.

To apply, please email your answers to the questions below, with “SKWCFAC App” in the subject line, to info@chathamkentcommunityfoundation.ca

1. Please provide your name, address, phone number & email

2. Why are you interested in serving as a South Kent Wind Community Fund Advisory Committee member?

3. Please share with us an outline of your previous volunteer involvement and any work you have provided in service to your community.

4. Please list other committees of which you have been a member.

The deadline for application submission is March 15th Since its inception in 2013, the SKW Community Fund has contributed over $6 million to the Chatham Kent Community Foundation. Over $3 million has flowed through in the form of grants to community organizations dedicated to making a difference in Chatham-Kent. The remainder has gone into an endowment to continue giving back to the community in perpetuity.

has received $240,000 to fund the project for the initial two years.

Advertorial

WORKFORCE WEEK

Resume Tips and Tricks: Stand Out and Get Hired with CK Jobs

Your resume is more than a document; it’s your first impression. In today’s competitive job market, employers often spend just seconds scanning applications. So how do you make yours stand out? The answer lies in strategy, clarity, and a little help from CKJobs.

Start Strong with a Clear Format

A cluttered resume can cost you an interview. Use a clean, professional layout with clear headings and bullet points. Keep it concise ideally one page for entry-level roles and two for experienced professionals. Remember, hiring managers want to find your skills quickly, not search through paragraphs.

Tailor for Every Job

One-size-fits-all resumes don’t work. Customize your resume for each position by highlighting relevant experience and keywords from the job description. This not only shows you’ve done your homework but also helps your resume pass Applicant Tracking Systems, which many employers use to screen candidates.

Show Results, Not Just Duties

Instead of listing tasks, focus on achievements. For example, don’t just say “Managed social media accounts.” Say “Increased engagement by 40% through targeted campaigns.” Numbers and results demonstrate impact and make you memorable.

Highlight Skills and Certifications

Employers love candidates who bring value. Include technical skills, certifications, and training that align with the role. If you’ve completed specialized programs or workshops, showcase them they can set you apart from the competition.

Avoid

Common Mistakes

Typos and outdated information are deal-breakers. Proofread carefully and ensure your contact details are current. Skip unnecessary details like age or marital status they’re not relevant and can clutter your resume.

How CKJobs Can Help You Shine

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone and that’s where CKJobs comes in. Our team can help you write a resume that gets noticed. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an old version, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Plus, CKJobs connects you with local employers and upcoming hiring events, including the Workforce Week Job Fair on March 4th at the John D. Bradley Convention Centre. Imagine walking into that event with a polished resume that grabs attention that’s the power of preparation.

Ready to take the next step? Visit CKJobs.ca to book a resume review, get assistance writing a resume, or explore our other resources. Your dream job starts with a strong resume—and CKJobs is here to help you make it happen.

Whitney McGregor, Supervisor, Employment and Social Services Municipality of Chatham-Kent

Classifieds

Announcement

Chatham Baptist Chapel

“Come out, All Are Welcome” Sunday Services 11am and 7pm Wednesday Bible Study 7pm Go to www.chathambaptist chapel.com to watch sermons.

For Sale

Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Ready-to-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411

Susan Peters

67, Saturday, January 31, 2026 Badder Funeral Home

Stephen Evgeni Zolnai

21, Monday, February 2, 2026 Badder Funeral Home

Louella Lindsay

95, Saturday January 31, 2026 Blenheim Community Funeral Home

Kristine Sheeler-Gahan

73, Saturday January 31, 2026