Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Heat max bylaw? Not yet
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
For some in Chatham-Kent, there is no way to beat the heat that we just experienced with our first heat wave of the summer.
Jeff Wilkins would love to see that change.
Wilkins, housing stability worker with the Chatham-Kent Legal Clinic, said there is no municipal bylaw in place to ensure tenants aren’t left in sweltering conditions inside their apartments.
He said the idea of a heat maximum bylaw was discussed four years ago in Chatham-Kent, but it did not even get before council.
“It didn’t go well four years ago. It was: ‘Who’s going to pay for it?’” he said.
Wilkins said for some tenants, if they have to foot the bill, they can’t afford it and will suffer through the extreme heat conditions as a result.
“You can’t pay if you’re on OW (Ontario Works) or ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program), or a senior’s pension. They just can’t afford it,” he said.
However, with some landlords raising rent as much as 300 per cent post pandemic, he believes those landlords have the financial flexibility to cover the costs for air conditioning.
But he’s not holding his breath for provincial help for tenants on the matter.
“Doug Ford is very pro-landlord. You can tell with his legislation,”
Wilkins said.
Under Bill 60, passed last
Chatham-Kent, like all but basically one community in Canada does not have a heat maximum bylaw that would force landlords to ensure at least one room in an apartment does not reach sweltering conditions during a heat wave. It may one day change, but if it does, who pays for the air conditioning, and how much?
fall by the Ford government, tenants can install their own air conditioners.
However, it comes at a price, one that the landlord appears to dictate.
The biggest sticking point is the wording used by the government in its
legislation. It states tenants will be permitted to install window or portable A/C units where a landlord does not provide air conditioning, and if the landlord pays for the electricity, they “may charge a seasonal rent increase” and that “charges must not exceed actual or reasonably estimated electricity costs.” Wilkins said the problem is what is reasonable? It may mean one thing to the tenant and another to the landlord.
He suggests to any tenant dealing with such a surcharge to put a meter on the air condition-
er to measure electricity use. If usage does not line up with the landlord surcharge, the meter numbers can be taken to the Landlord-Tenant Board.
“It’s going to be a nightmare to figure this out,” Wilkins said.
What’s more, some area landlords have also attempted to jump the gun on the rent hikes for air conditioning.
“We got 14 calls in the last week. Landlords were looking to collect,” Wilkins said. “I’ve seen landlords ask for $350 per year. What they’re supposed to do is take May through the end of September – those months that are very, very hot –into account,” he said.
“We’re asking for $10$15 a month,” Wilkins said, adding that’s only
during the hottest months of the year. There is at least one place in Canada, New Westminster, B.C., that has put in place a maximum heat bylaw. It passed the bylaw June 8, mandating that all rental units must have at least one living space with an indoor temperature of an average of 26C, between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Wilkins sees that as good news, and predicts the effort to have heat maximums will gather, well, steam.
“There is a lot of momentum behind this now. A lot of these buildings (without air conditioning) have seniors now. They’re older buildings that hold the cold and the heat,” he said.
Continued on page 3
Image courtesy Metro Creative Graphics
Epp earns shadow cabinet post
The Chatham Voice
Local MP Dave Epp’s job just got a lot bigger.
The Conservative MP for Chatham-Kent–Leamington has been appointed as the Shadow Minister for Rural development.
“I am deeply honoured and grateful for the confidence placed in me to serve as Shadow Minister for Rural Development,” said Epp in a media release. “It is a welcome opportunity to now ad-
vance, and advocate not only for the people of Chatham-Kent–Leamington, but for rural and remote Canadians from coast to coast to coast. Rural Canada is the backbone of our country, whose communities feed the nation, power our economy, steward our natural resources, and reflect the values of hard work, resilience, and innovation that define Canada.”
As a shadow minister, Epp will advocate for the
millions of Canadians who live, work, and raise their families in rural, northern, and resource-based communities. His focus will span the full range of issues that shape rural life, including infrastructure, agriculture and agri-food, environmental conservation, economic development, Indigenous partnerships, Internet and cellular connectivity, post-secondary education and skills training, access to health care, affordable
housing, and more.
“Too often, rural communities are treated as an afterthought in federal policy. Whether it’s aging infrastructure, unreliable broadband, accessibility issues, housing challenges, unemployment levels, or barriers facing farmers, foresters, miners, energy producers, and small businesses, rural Canadians deserve a government that understands their realities and delivers practical solutions.”
Epp emphasized that rural prosperity is essential to Canada’s long-term economic success.
“When rural Canada succeeds, all of Canada succeeds,” he said. “Canadian farms feed the world. Our natural resource sectors drive economic growth. We need to add more value to the agricultural and natural resources here in Canada – and often the business that add that value are located in our municipalities.”
Extreme heat conditions can be deadly
Continued from page 2 Toronto and Hamilton have been investigating heat maximum bylaws in recent years.
Extreme heat conditions inside a home can be a killer. In B.C. during a “heat dome” event in 2021, 619 people died due
to the heat, according to a CBC report, which attributed a B.C. Coroner’s Report.
Here, Wilkins said it’s not as clear cut.
“It’s hard to determine if heat stroke is the cause of death. The coroner is going to say heart failure,”
he said.
Wilkins said he keeps tabs on New Westminster, not just because of the heat maximum bylaw.
“They’re also the municipality that started the N-13 bylaw (renoviction bylaw),” he said. “We’re
trying to follow their lead.”
Wilkins added tenant advocacy groups are starting to focus more and more on heat maximum issues.
“There’s quite a big movement. There are a lot of tenant organiza-
tions out there that are starting to spread the word,” Wilkins said, and Chatham-Kent personnel is aware of the concerns.
“The municipality does recognize this and especially when their workers go into these buildings and feel the heat.”
MP Dave Epp
One final Journey of Hope
By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com
Don Wells began his latest fundraising journey last week with a simple message.
“My days are limited so I’m going to do the best I can.”
The cancer survivor left the Walpole Island arena on his 77th birthday bound for Ottawa to raise awareness and money for children battling cancer on
what he said will be his last effort to give back to the community.
His plan was to ride a motorized scooter for the 700-kilometre trip to Ottawa where he was to be met by officials from the Children’s Make a Wish Foundation.
Conflicting media reports stated late last week that he had made it to Ottawa, but also had to pull the scooters off the road
HUGE
due to extreme heat. The Voice has been unable to reach Wells for an update.
who give back. It’s a part of the fabric of our community,” he said.
“It seems like every time I think it’s my last journey, but God has other plans for me.” he said. “As long as I have health, I’ll try to keep going, but I have to be realistic.”
He said he started his trip from Walpole Island due to his many close friends in the community.
Companion Bob Duquette, who drove a motor home the group was to stay in during the trip, said he’s involved because “it’s all about the kids. If you see what those kids go through, it’s enough to make you cry.”
Bob’s son James also drove a scooter to provide Wells with some companionship on the road.
“I’ve spent many years with my friends on Walpole Island. I was vice president of minor hockey here for a couple of years and was involved in the Little NHL. You won’t find people anywhere who have a bigger heart,” he said.
“I’m in my second remission with lung cancer,” he said. “I’m thankful that I can still help out.”
GENTRY MANOR
Wells said he doesn’t have a fundraising goal for the event. “I used to get out and work harder at fundraising but even though my PSA level is down right now, the radiation has kept my energy level low.”
The community recently held an Indian Taco fundraiser, which raised $1,200. He has raised $5,000 so far and encourages anyone who wants to help to donate through the Children’s Health Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
“Just let them know you’re donating to help the Journey of Hope,” he said.
It’s expected that the trip will take 12 to 15 days although there isn’t any firm timetable.
“We’re travelling the back roads and we could be limited by the heat and bad weather,” he said. “I’ll do the best that I can.”
Wells has battled bladder and prostate cancer for more than a decade and has crossed parts of Ontario and British Columbia several times in his “Journey of Hope” events.
Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP Dave Epp was on hand for Wells’ departure.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to encourage and support those
Jim Blake/The Chatham Voice
Don Wells and his companions are embarking on a two-week long scooter trip from Walpole Island to Ottawa to raise funds and awareness for children battling cancer. Here Don (second from left) is shown with his partner
Lou, James Duquette and Bob Duquette who are accompanying him on the trip.
Jim Blake/The Chatham Voice
Don Wells is embarking on a 700-kilometre scooter trip to Ottawa to raise funds and awareness for children battling cancer. The group left from the Walpole Island Arena on the two week journey.
Fishing heritage commemorated
By Mark Ribble The Southpoint Sun Special to The Voice
The Chatham-Kent Heritage Network (CKHN) took the opportunity to unveil its newest historical plaque at the Wheatley Harbour on June 28 in conjunction with the ongoing Wheatley Fish Festival.
A public gathering to unveil the plaque attracted a large crowd, as members of the Heritage Network spoke about Wheatley’s history and how the plaque came about.
From Canoes to Commerce: Wheatley’s Fishing Story is the title of the plaque which now stands in front of the Wheatley Harbour Authority office.
CKHN has been erecting plaques across Chatham-Kent for four years, according to opening speaker and chair of the CKHN, Lisa Gilbert.
“This is plaque number 27,” she said. “I think that’s quite a fete. The goal is to reach 35 plaques.”
Eventually, it’s hoped that all of the plaques will be on the Chatham-Kent municipal website, so that residents can read about each small town across the municipality. Gilbert also encouraged people to take a trip to each of the towns to read about their heritage
lage in 1866 and the rest is history. McLean’s descendants were among those who unveiled the plaque when the cover was removed. The young members of the Bluteau family represented the McLeans and they were joined by the youngest members of the Cobby family to expose the plaque to great applause by those in attendance.
and the importance of being involved in local heritage and knowing your roots and those of neighbouring communities.
Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff and Ward 1 Coun.
Melissa Harrigan were also on hand, along with Harbourmaster Bobby Cabral.
“It’s so important to keep history alive,” said Canniff. “I love that it’s brought our community together across Chatham-Kent.”
Gilbert credited plaque author Cindy (Taylor) Robichaud who was born and raised in Wheatley but now lives in Chatham.
“I reached out to the community and I asked for information, stories and memories, and the community did not disappoint,” said Robichaud in her quest to gather information for the plaque. “For generations, fishing was the lifeline for countless families
and many are still in the fishing industry today.”
Robichaud spoke about the book “Open Boats,” written in the 1980s by local historian Rita Lobzun, who was on hand for the celebration. Lobzun had compiled many stories from old-time fishermen along with fellow historians Gail Tofflemire and Marguerite Carter.
William McLean built the first commercial fishery in the vil-
Recalling the Courier Press’ heydays
Son of newspaper’s founder remembers it was a family affair
By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com
With Postmedia’s decision to end publication of the Wallaceburg Courier Press newspaper last month, Grady O’Flynn, whose late father, Gary, founded the paper, took a few minutes to reminisce.
“I’m not surprised that the paper closed,” he said. “I haven’t been involved in the business in years, but the big
newspaper chains often don’t relate well to small-town operations.”
Grady said that although his father was the force behind the newspaper, it was much more of a family affair than many realize.
“I’m not surprised that the paper closed,” he said. “I haven’t been involved in the business in years, but the big newspaper chains often don’t relate well to small-town operations.”
- Grady O’Flynn
“My dad had left The Windsor Star and was looking for work. He knew that starting a newspaper would require the support of my mom, Marie, and the help and understanding of his chil-
dren. Dad was concerned that we might have to leave town if he couldn’t find work, and he loved Wallaceburg,” Grady said. “Dad had vision, but he also lived in the moment. When he decided to go, we went.”
He added his mother’s work was a crucial piece to the family puzzle.
“My mom’s job as bookkeeper at (former Mayor) J.L. Thompson’s company was vital to our survival, and I’m not sure we could have made it without Mr. Thompson’s understanding of the situation,“ Grady said. He recalled putting up drywall and moving bricks
around in the Courier office, a converted storage building.
“I was a teenager who became a circulation manager and a sportswriter,” he said.
“I got full press credentials for the Tigers and Blue Jays and I had my first real beer at Tiger Stadium.”
Grady’s sisters Beth and Deb both helped out in various capacities.
“Each one of us had our strengths, and we all pitched in. Looking back, it was pure gold to spend so much time with my father,” he said. “The newspaper reporters in town loved their community, and they did a great job.”
Mark Ribble/Southpoint Sun/Special to The Chatham Voice
The youngest descendants of two of Wheatley’s historical fishing families — the McLeans and the Cobbys — handled the unveiling of the plaque. On the left are Myah, Savannah and Rory Bluteau. On the right are Jace (blue), Max (orange), Jack (red) and James Cobby (black).
Opinion
How much to stay cool?
Those of us with air conditioning survived last week in our climate-controlled coolness. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case for everyone in Chatham-Kent.
For anyone who thinks the vast majority of our homeless choose to be out on the streets, this is a prime example of when they’d prefer to be anywhere but living in a tent or a tarp. Good luck getting any sleep when overnight temperatures are in 25C or even higher.
where the maximum temperature cannot exceed 26C.
Such a bylaw is badly needed here, more so than New Westminster, B.C., where the bylaw actually exists.
We live in the hottest part of the country. Some may say we’re used to these scorching events, but tell that to people who suffer through it without air conditioning. It’s a struggle indeed.
And then there are the people who live indoors without air conditioning. For some, it’s due to financial reasons. Choosing between putting food on the table and keeping it nice and cool indoors is a decision between survival and extreme discomfort.
But when temperatures reach the levels we felt last week, the high heat indoors can impact one’s survivability as well.
Heat stroke claims lives. And some Chatham-Kent residents don’t even have the choice of cooling off anywhere within their residence. They’re not alone.
Basically only one municipality across the country has enacted a heat-maximum bylaw – where landlords must ensure all tenants have at least one room (not the bathroom)
The Ford government recently enacted legislation that allows tenants to install in-window or portable air conditioners, which is great news. However, the question is who will pay for the electricity use, and how much? If you live in an apartment where electricity use is factored into the rent, the landlord can increase that rent during the summer months. To what level is very ambiguous in the legislation, which states landlords “may charge a seasonal rent increase” and that “charges must not exceed actual or reasonably estimated electricity costs.”
Who determines “reasonably estimated electricity costs” when there is a dispute?
Will this lead to a plethora of tenant gouging?
Will disputes flood the already overworked Landlord Tenant Board?
Stay tuned.
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Have a smile for buskers
Editor: As a resident of Chatham-Kent of 53 years, and a semi-professional musician of 35 plus years, it occurs to me that there is a marked difference between buskers and beggars on our streets here in town.
A busker will never ask for or demand payment for his/her craft, but be there perhaps with a cup simply implying that a tip may be given if patrons wish to do so at their own
free will.
Perhaps through no fault of their own, some in the street are forced to beg. The economic situation that many face due to inflation and the whims of many three-letter NGO’s profiteering from vagrant migration, has left these unfortunates with no other choice.
in the grips of vice or social stigmas. We just like to share our love of music on the streets. Please stop and converse with us, and please always try to smile, even though we’re both having a rough day, we can all still pretend until they bring down the Big Top on us all.
Buskers on the whole are folks with some means, a home, and are usually not
Editor: Apparently, sharing the road in a polite, courteous and safe manner is a hundred-year-old problem in Chatham.
With the warm weather upon us, not to mention the countless models of new motorized contraptions now on our roadways, I would have thought, by now, the mo-
torist versus cyclist versus pedestrian letter writing “dust ups” would be in full swing.
Where it is a very concerning, potential ly dangerous issue, I thought finding articles in an old newspaper was mildly amusing.
Daryl Denault
three “combatants” attempted to be more polite, courteous and safe toward one another, I’d hope there would be far fewer incidents of confrontation and complaint.
Then, as it is now, if all
Dan Kelly Chatham
Chatham
Harrigan joins candidate parade
The Chatham Voice
Melissa Harrigan recently announced she plans on seeking re-election in the fall.
The West Kent councillor will compete for one of two seats against five other candidates who have already come forward.
Elsewhere, Albert Pilbeam announced his intentions in Ward 2, joining seven other candidates who have already signed up.
Lauren Aziz will run in Ward 3, alongside six other candidates so far, all vying for one seat.
Mayor: West Kent Coun.
Lauren Anderson, Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy, Nelson Burm, incumbent mayor Darrin Canniff and Ryan Gow.
Chatham Ward 6: Ben Labadie, Brian Machado, Sheila Moir-Martin, Karen Montgomery and incumbent Alysson Storey. (Two seats.)
Chatham Ward 7: Steve Adkins, Michael Fife, incumbent Amy Finn, Dustin Gawne, Larry Hutchins, Steve Kenney, Marc King, Jason Reynolds and Doug Robbins. (Two seats.)
Chatham Ward 8: San-
dra Dorner, Ryan Drouillard, John Duquette, Andy Fisher, Paul Graciano, Debbie Martin, Rick Nicholls, Stephani Shill, Scott Thompson and Luke Van Der Vliet. (Two seats.)
South West Kent
Ward 1: Tom Askew, Mark Authier, Michael Bond, incumbent Melissa Harrigan, Andrea Palmer and Gerhard Taves. (Two seats.)
South East Kent Ward
2: Chad Carnie; Matthew Giffin, Matt Lamarche,
Denise Maynard, Albert Pilbeam, Brad Snobelen, Spencer Stinson and Hassan Tariq. (Two seats.)
North East Kent
Ward 3: Lauren Aziz, Kyle Carter, Cory Couture, Mark Huston, Emery Huszka, Matthew Pietens and James Plunkett. (One seat.)
North West Kent Ward
4: John Cummings, Kirk Hooker and incumbent Rhonda Jubenville. (One seat.)
Wallaceburg Ward 5:
Brendan Authier, Loree Bailey, Steve Burritt, Jay Debuck, Zac Nicholson, Dave Hyatt and Chris Young. (Two seats.)
Nominations are open until Aug. 21. Anyone interested in running can access the necessary in-
formation on the Municipality of Chatham-Kent’s webpage.
Editor’s note: This is the list of candidates available on the municipality’s webpage as of press time July 3. The list does not include school board candidates.
What’s good for Ontario is grown in Ontario
By choosing Ontario foods, you’re getting delicious,
support
Melissa Harrigan
This bylaw has metallic teeth
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
In an attempt to thwart local metal theft, Chatham-Kent has beefed up rules on how it can be sold.
Approved at the June 22 meeting, council agreed to strengthen its Business Licensing Bylaw in an effort to reduce copper and metal theft, improve accountability within the salvage industry, and support efforts to improve community infrastructure.
According to a staff report, the changes were made following consultation with the Chatham-Kent Police Service as metal theft continues to be a problem within the municipality. These thefts can lead to high costs, property damage, service disruptions and public safety risks, the report said.
Private property owners and municipal operations have been impacted by metal theft, it stated, leading to a wide range of problems at parks, cemeteries and roads, as wells as water and wastewater assets.
Going forward there will be restrictions on prohibited scrap metal, including certain high-risk materials like manhole covers, guardrails, street signs and storm grates. These cannot be purchased without written approval from the CKPS.
As well, traceable payments for restricted scrap metal will be required for copper, bronze or metallic wire, by cheque or electronic transfer in order to avoid anonymous transactions. Going forward, salvage businesses must keep required records on site, to be maintained for a threeyear period.
PRESENTED BY
SATURDAY, JULY 11, 2026
LOVE MUSCLE
POOR MANS POET
4:00PM-11:00PM
Canadian, and proud of it!
While waving her flags, Kaydance Mitchell, 4, of
Museum on Canada Day. Her favourite display showcased the
water. I love swimming and playing in the water on hot days,” she said.
Tart & Soul a tasty hit
The Chatham Voice
They lined up for upwards of a half an hour to get to the gooey sweet goodness of the tart element, and many stayed for the soulful music.
The second annual Tart & Soul Butter Tart Festival was a hit at Sons of Kent Brewery in Chatham recently.
The free, family-friendly festival attracted visitors from across Southwestern Ontario and beyond to celebrate local bakers, artisans, makers, food vendors, and all things butter tart.
“This festival is about so much more than butter tarts,” festival founder Doug
Robbins said in a media release. “It’s about community, supporting small businesses, celebrating Canadian traditions, and creating an event that people genuinely look forward to. Seeing thousands of smiling faces enjoying the day made every minute of planning worthwhile.”
Throughout the afternoon, festival-goers sampled dozens of butter tarts before casting their votes in the People’s Choice Award, while an independent panel of judges conducted blind tastings to determine the best traditional and specialty butter tarts.
Bomb Bish Bakery of Welland won the People’s
Choice Award.
The Ten of Tarts from Shelburne took the Best Judged Butter Tart award.
The Best Judged Specialty Butter Tart honour went to Zule Eats of Windsor.
“Congratulations to all of our winners, but honestly, to every tartisan who rolled into Chatham baked their hearts out,” Robbins said. “The quality was simply outstanding. Our judges had an incredibly difficult job, and our guests certainly didn’t have it any easier deciding on the People’s Choice. You could say the competition was anything but halfbaked.”
Judy Woodrow/Special to The Chatham Voice
Sarnia, was all smiles and giggles at the Wallaceburg
Sydenham River. “The floor looks like
EMS costs jump $2.3M for C-K
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
A clause within the contract between Chatham-Kent and Medavie EMS has triggered a $2.3-million “economic-adjustment” payment from the municipality.
Approved at the June 22 council meeting, a total of $225,000 of the funds will come from the Labour Relations reserve, while the remainder will be referred to the 2027 budget update and the 2028-2031 multi-year budget.
According to a report from administration, the
current contract with Medavie was approved late in 2024, covering the timeframe from Jan. 1, 2025 to Dec. 2029 for a total of $82,857,813. It contained the clause that the operator “was permitted a right to terminate the agreement with notice” if the provision of the
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services becomes unfeasible due to circumstances beyond the operator’s reasonable control on the third-year anniversary of the term.
The report stated that “significant employee-related wage and long-term disability costs” forced the contractor to enact the exit clause.
The increases were far
above the estimates used when Medavie bid on the contract, the report said, and are similarly being experienced in the ambulance sector across Ontario. As there have been no other recent bidders on EMS services, administration recommended that staff begin to prepare an internal bid in 2027 for services for an RFP in
late 2028 in order to have time to be organized to take the service in house for Jan. 1, 2030, if a more affordable option can’t be found.
Upper tier or regional governments such as Chatham-Kent are required to provide EMS services. The province downloaded the responsibility in 2000, the report said.
Inspection issue at tattoo parlour
CK Public Health officials warn of possible issues from work done at an uninspected tattoo parlour.
“Chatham-Kent Public Health has identified inadequate equipment disinfection practices at an uninspected and unlicensed tattoo provider,”
according to a municipal press release. These concerns apply to tattoo services provided at the business at 592 Wallace St. E. in Wallaceburg, between Jan. 1 and June 29 of this year.
“Individuals who received services at this location during the specified timeframe are advised to contact their health-care
provider to arrange a clinical assessment. Those without a health care provider should visit a walk in clinic for evaluation,” public health officials said. Insufficient infection control procedures during tattoo services increase the risk of transmitting bloodborne infections, such as HIV or Hepatitis, as well as infections of the skin.
Dick Munroe
Dan Munroe
LAKEFRONT
The Chatham Voice
Ferrara looks to her future
Voice
Dr. Alexandra Ferrara has been named the recipient of the prestigious Leonora Sheppard Award in Family Medicine from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. This award recognizes a family medicine resident who demonstrates outstanding clinical excellence, according to a Chatham-Kent Health Alliance media release. It is specifically designated for a resident who is committed to providing comprehensive community family medicine and who plans to build their medical practice in Ontario following the completion of their residency program.
education at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, in a media release. “She is highly deserving of this award, and her passion for supporting local health care makes her an exceptional asset to our community and the broader provincial healthcare system as a whole.”
“She is highly deserving of this award, and her passion for supporting local health care makes her an exceptional asset to our community and the broader provincial health-care system as a whole.”
- Dr. Lindsey Sutherland
“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Ferrara for earning this meaningful recognition,” said Dr. Lindsey Sutherland, Chatham-Kent regional academic director, distributed
Elegant
Born and raised in Chatham, Ferrara earned her Bachelor of Science from Western University and a Master of Public Health from Brock University before completing her medical degree at the University of Limerick. Professionally, her medical interests span emergency medicine and long-term care. Her future practice plans include opening her own family medicine practice in Chatham-Kent.
“I am incredibly thankful to receive the Leonora Sheppard Award,” Ferrara said. “Being recognized for my commitment to
comprehensive community family medicine is an absolute honor. I am truly excited to continue practicing in Ontario and look forward to supporting the health and well-being of our communities as I transition into my full-time practice.”
The accolade highlights the calibre of medical training and dedication present within the local distributed education program. Dr. Zeke Milkovic, CKHA chief of staff, noted that the recognition is well-deserved and reflects a strong future for regional health-care delivery.
“I want to extend congratulations to Dr. Ferrara on receiving this well-deserved award,” Milkovic said.
“Her achievements reflect the exceptional calibre of our medical education partnership, and we are incredibly proud to support a learning environment that nurtures such outstanding talent. We look forward to watching Dr. Ferrara build a long, impactful career in family medicine and continue to inspire future residents in our teaching program.”
8274 Talbot Trail, Blenheim ON
Hilltop Home
The Chatham
Contributed image
Dr. Alexandra Ferrara, left, and Dr. Lindsey Sutherland show off Ferrara’s Leonora Sheppard Award.
Variety is the spice of Flex Plex life
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Versatility is the key word for the CK Flex Plex.
It went from concept last November to open for business in February, and owner Phil Ong has continued to improve things at the Richmond Street indoor sports facility.
What Ong and his team have developed is an indoor, air-conditioned space that offers eight pickleball/badminton courts, six volleyball courts, a halfcourt for basketball, a trio of ping pong tables and an indoor soccer pitch.
Well, that pitch is also an indoor playground for the youngsters, as three mornings a week,
parents and their young children can jump, dance, play, and generally wear themselves, and their caregiver out.
“Everyone enjoys it here,” Ong said. “It looks very unassuming from the outside, but when you get inside, it’s nice, bright and beautiful.”
From the exterior, the appearance is one of an industrial building. However, the inside space is well lit and geared for fun.
That includes indoor summer camps for kids and youth, not a bad idea given the recent extreme heat we experienced.
“We’ve started a lot of kids’ and youth programs throughout the summer,” Ong said. “In the fall, we’ll pick up with a lot more
clinics for youth and adults.”
Ong said he likes the progress at the Flex Plex.
“It’s coming along nicely. We’re very proud of the facility we built and have received a lot of good feedback from the community that it’s a good space for them to keep active,” he said. “We’re open for anyone from age one to 99. We
have something for everyone.”
Adult leagues include badminton, pickleball, and soccer. Adult competitive tournaments in various sports are sprinkled throughout the year.
Youth programs feature soccer, badminton and volleyball clinics, as well as a drop-in night.
Toddlers and their parents, as mentioned, take over the place on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
and Saturday mornings. As well, the summer camps are underway for children aged five to 11 from now until late August.
The Flex Plexers really try to have something for everyone. But they also have everything for everyone, in the form of their multi-sport league on Thursdays. Each week delivers a different sport.
‘Living Exhibition’ in the ’Burg
The Chatham Voice
Plein Air Artists Chatham-Kent’s (PAACK) First “Living Exhibition” and Sale of Plein Air and Studio Paintings Art Show is a showcase of local art and a diverse collection of artworks painted “en plein air” by Chatham-Kent artists in the beautiful outdoor natu-
ral settings of our area, highlighting the unique landscapes and vibrant colours that inspire them – a celebration of the beauty and history of Chatham-Kent through their eyes and brushstrokes. It is called a “living exhibition” as new artwork will be added each week to the exhibit at the Wallaceburg & District Museum, offering
a fresh glimpse and newly painted paintings into the group’s ongoing journey across the municipality and the landscapes that inspire them.
The Wallaceburg & District Museum is located at 505 King St. in Wallaceburg. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Bruce Corcoran/The Chatham Voice
Sophia Poulin, 1, has her own take on World Cup mania while playing at the CK Flex Plex recently. The facility offers a variety of programs, including Toddler Playtime for kids aged one to four.
The classics of summer
Photo courtesy Chatham-Kent Tourism Classic cars always draw crowds in Chatham-Kent. That certainly was the case in Blenheim recently for the annual Blenheim Classics Auto Show in the community’s downtown.
Warm weather can make travel more enjoyable and affords people more time to comfortably enjoy the great outdoors. It’s best to keep safety in mind when soaking up the sun. That’s important for all members of the family, including pets. Cats and dogs are as susceptible to heat-related illnesses as their human companions.
Recognize heat stroke
Pets can suffer from heat stroke, certain breeds of dogs are highly susceptible, particularly those with short snouts, such as pugs and bulldogs. Excessive exercise in hot weather, lack of appropriate shelter outdoors and leaving a dog in a hot car may precipitate an episode of heat stroke. It’s important to get the pet out of direct heat right away and check for signs of shock, which include seizures, a body temperature of 104 F or higher, stupor, increased heart rate, or excessive panting. Placing water-soaked towels on the pet’s feet, head, neck, and abdomen can bring down its temperature.
Protect Pets in Hot Weather
Be cautious of hot surfaces
Humans wear shoes on their feet for protection, but pets do not have that luxury. Think about how hot your feet can feel when you scurry barefoot across hot sand en route to the shoreline or to cross a deck to get to the pool. When the sun beats down on surfaces, those surface temperatures rise quickly. According to a 2010 study by Liberty Home and Pet Services, at peak afternoon sun and an ambient temperature of 95 F in southern Florida, the temperature of cement was measured at 125 F, red brick at 135 F, blacktop at 140 F, and grass at 102 F. Individuals who think a car is safer for their dog or cat may be surprised the informal study measured 152 F on seat surfaces.
Provide extra water
It’s likely you will need to fill your pets’ water bowls more frequently in warm weather than during other times of the year. Be sure to provide constant access to fresh water, even for young puppies who may be learning to house train. Avoid cutting fur too short. If a veterinarian suggests a hair cut may be beneficial for keeping a pet cool or
comfortable, resist the urge to shave down to the skin. Having at least one inch of fur will protect the pet from sunburn.
Outdoor
hazards
Warm weather may bring out a high number of insects and wildlife. Use a flea and tick preventative product and medication to protect against heartworm, which is transmitted through mosquitoes. Snakes, skunks, raccoons, foxes, and other animals may be roaming around, and a scuffle with your pet can result in injury.
Pets need extra care during the warm weather to avoid damage and sickness from the sun, heat and more.
Rosie enjoying a cool bath in her backyard pool .
Foundation celebrates $1.1M raised
The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) patted its collective self on the back at its recent annual general meeting.
Raising more than $1.1M in a year can lead to such things.
From April 1 of last year until the end of March this year, the CKHAF raised $1,114,578 for the CKHA.
“Made possible through the generosity of donors, businesses, service clubs, community organizations, volunteers, and event participants from across Chatham-Kent, this remarkable investment will support vital equipment, technology, programs, and patient care initiatives across both the Chatham and Wallaceburg hospital sites,” CKHAF officials said in a media release.
“This past year was one of tremendous progress
for our Foundation and our hospital, and every achievement was made possible by the incredible generosity of our community,” said Christine Mitchell, president & CEO of CKHAF. “The more than $1.1 million committed to local health care reflects the strength of our community and its shared commitment to exceptional care close to home. It represents lives touched, patients cared for, and people coming together to make a lasting difference for our hospital.”
Funding committed during the 2025-2026 fiscal year supported a wide range of priorities across CKHA, including new diagnostic imaging technology, emergency and critical care, women & children’s care, the patient assistance fund, and other hospital priorities. The Foundation also welcomed Jason Board-
Late fees waived
Get those late fees scrubbed clean and start fresh with the Chatham-Kent Public Library. Library patrons can visit any CKPL branch to have old overdue fines cleared from their account.
CKPL recognizes that overdue fines can be a barrier to accessing library services, library officials said.
As of 2026, CKPL has eliminated overdue fines on almost all library materials. As part of CKPL’s continued effort to remove barriers to library
access, CKPL is launching the “Start a New Chapter” campaign. Through this initiative, CKPL hopes that anyone who is not using the library due to outstanding fines will feel welcome to return to the library and resume using library services. To participate in this initiative, visit your local CKPL branch to update their library account and staff will waive existing overdue fines.
Please note that some limitations will apply. The campaign will run until Oct. 24.
Smith and Jay Charlton as the newest members of its volunteer board of directors. Together, they bring extensive professional experience, strong leadership skills, and a shared commitment to strengthening local health care through community philanthropy, according to CKHAF officials.
The Chatham Voice
Contributed image
Members of the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation board of directors and staff are joined by Adam Topp, president & CEO of CKHA, and Russ Weir, vice-chair of the CKHA board of directors, to celebrate more than $1.1 million committed to local health care during the 2025-2026 fiscal year.
The Chatham Voice
Lions eye CKHA
The Lions Clubs of District A1 have a sight conservation foundation called “Eyes Right” whose purpose is to raise funds to provide vision-care equipment to the various hospitals in Southwestern Ontario.
And are they ever helping the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA).
The Chatham Lions Club made the most recent proposal: to provide an op-
erating microscope to the Ophthalmology Department at CKHA.
The first $50,000 donation was made last September.
In June, members of the Chatham Lions Club and Eyes Right presented a second $50,000 cheque to the hospital.
The Chatham Lions Club continues to raise funds for this cause.
All donations gratefully accepted. Contact lionseppo@cogeco.ca.
Answer the call. Volunteer with Ontario Corps.
T:7"
The Chatham Voice
Contributed image
The Chatham Lions club members (in blue), along with its Eyes Right team (in yellow) share their support with CKHA and CKHA Foundation personnel. From left, Seppo Kuokkanen; Aldo Gonzalez; Jacqui Flood; Jim Faubert; Dr. Gail Tanner, Eyes
Right board chair; Murray McDonald, vice chair; Elda Faubert, club president; Larry Badder; Sherri Wismer; Dr. Chris Anjema, chief of surgery; Roy Graham; Emily Sellner, CKHA Foundation development officer; Andrew DeBoer, CKHAF communications manager; and Mark Mahovlich.
Celebrating 45 years for Warriors
By Jim Blake jim@chathamvoice.com
For Kristan Blair, the recipe for building a successful minor sports organization is the same as it was 30 years ago – people who care.
Blair, who is in charge of fundraising and sponsorship for the Wallaceburg Minor Baseball Association, spoke recently during the association’s Warrior Days. This year marks the 45th anni-
versary of the Warriors name in Wallaceburg baseball.
The name began with the Warriors Senior team and the minor baseball affiliation took place shortly after when Randy McNeil, one of the senior team founders (along with Pat Davis and Jim Blake), became president of minor baseball.
“We have a board of 15, tons of volunteers, and fantastic coaches who make it fun and interesting so that the kids keep coming
back every year,” she said.
The association has about 250 players ranging from T-Ball (ages five and six) to U-18. The 11 teams involve boys and girls, as well as baseball and fastball.
Although the emphasis is on fun, the association has a skills director and offers winter programming at the Kinsmen Gym for more advanced and competitive players.
“We play everywhere from Alvinston to Blenheim,” she said.
“There’s always something going on.”
Warriors Days featured games and activities at parks across Wallaceburg.
“We’re lucky to have some great local sponsors such as Legacy Sports, Kim Murray at Desjardins Insurance and Splash Pools. They’re a key part of what we do,” Blair said.
For Blair, involvement is a family affair.
“My two boys Nolan and Lu-
cas, play ball, and my husband Scott is involved, but it started with my parents, Newt and Deb Richardson. I grew up playing baseball, my mom was on the board forever ago and my dad coached, so I just decided to give back.”
“Not a ton has changed, honestly,” she said. “The smiles on the kids’ faces make it worthwhile.”
The association’s website wallaceburgminorball.ca/ has more information about activities for the remainder of the year.
Hydro One funding used
Continued from page 17
In a recent media release, Storey said she supported the project, as literacy is key to a
“successful and healthy” community.
“So, I’m thrilled that I was able to contribute some of my Hydro One allotment to this wonderful project,” Storey explained. McDonald, who grew up going to the Ridgetown library, said it’s great to see the project take shape at the branch with the addition of the Early Literacy stations.
“I can just imagine kids from all over enjoying it, and especially kids of all ages, so I think it’s really great,” McDonald added.
Judy Woodrow/Special to The Chatham Voice
The Wallaceburg Minor Baseball Association (WMBA) recently held its first-ever “Warrior Days” event with games and activities across the community. Here, board member Kristan Blair and Jaxon Carter-Andrews check out some of the prizes given away throughout the day.
The Chatham Arms Hotel and the Shackletons
If you look closely at the included photo, bottom right corner, you will notice a portion of a two-and-one-half-floor brick building which was known as the Chatham Arms Hotel. It was located at the southeast junction of King Street West and Forsyth Street. It was an old building, one of the first brick structures in Chatham, and dated
PARK PL ACE CHATHAM Upgrade
John Rhodes
Contributed image
King Street, looking east from Forsyth Street, July 1905. The Chatham Arms Hotel is in the bottom right corner of the photo.
Community Events
Thursday, July 9, 2026:
• Join us every Thursday afternoon from 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion for a Music Jam. Donations welcome so bring out your singing voice and instruments to have a great afternoon!!
• Join us at The Chatham Legion, 39 William St.N., Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch 11:00am-1:30 pm. Check out our daily specials. Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Darts 7pm. Food Truck 5-9pm. Members & non-members welcome.
Friday, July 10, 2026:
• Join us at The Chatham Legion, 39 William St.N., Chatham 11:00am-10pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch 11:00am-1:30 pm. Dinner will be served 4:00 –5:30pm. No orders after 5:30 pm. Tonight’s specials are chicken fingers or fish & chips, $15.00 (HST included). Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. Fun Darts start at 7:00pm. Members & non-members welcome.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St, 11am1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available. Friday night supper is a pork tenderloin dinner with potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine ins $14 and pickup $15. All meals are served at 6pm. Please call 519-352-8291 to order.
Saturday, July 11, 2026:
• Merlin Legion Scrumptious Chicken Kabob Dinner. Served from 4:30 -7pm at Merlin Legion. Contact 519689-4884 for more information. Take outs also available
• Anniversary of the Wallaceburg Christian Reformed Church, July 11-12. Celebrating 75 years of God’s goodness to us with an open house from 1-4pm. Local dignitaries, fun games with food and drinks. A gala dinner and a program will happen on Saturday evening.
• Yard Sale at St. Paul’s Congregational Church, 450 Park Ave. W. 8am-noon.
• Join us at The Chatham Legion, 39 William St.N., Chatham 11:00am–9:30pm. The kitchen is open from 3:00pm-5:15pm. Check out our menu. Line Dancing 11-12pm. There will be meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm ending with a 50/50 draw. Entertainment by Side Effects from 4:30-9:30pm. Members & non-members welcome.
Sunday, July 12, 2026:
• Special Church Service for the Anniversary of the Wallaceburg Christian Reformed Church with guest pastors. 10:00am.
• Two Creeks welcomes back Crack the Whip, playing all the hits from the 70’s to the 90’s. Keep you dancing all night long. 6:00pm. No admission, but we do pass the hat. Food and drink by the Scouts. Lots of parking. twocreeks.ca.
• Calling all Veterans. The Chatham Legion, 39 William St N. Chatham will be hosting a Buddy Check for all Veterans from 10:00am–12:00pm. Enjoy a coffee and talk to other Veterans. This venue is for Veterans Only. Pipe Band Annual Golf Tournament held at Hidden Hills at 10am. Members & non-members welcome.
Monday, July 13, 2026:
• Shrine Day: Truly, a hidden gem in Southwestern Ontario; Our Lady of the Rosary Shrine, located at 5773 10th Line, Merlin. Served by the Rosarian Order. Check out our Shrine Schedule and additional details on our website: www.olrshrine. ca/shrine. Come enjoy an oasis of Peace with Our Lord & His Blessed Mother; everyone is welcome.
Tuesday, July 14, 2026:
• Are you looking for a place that leads children to contemplation, wonder, and joy? Through handmade materials and an environment prepared for them, children experience the most essential truths of scripture and liturgy, and come to know the voice of their Good Shepherd. Our atrium (program) takes place, 4:30-5:30pm, for children 3-6 years old. St. James the Apostle Anglican, 707 James Street, Wallaceburg. For more info, call: 647-781-6142. Snacks and childcare for younger siblings are provided.
• Shrewsbrew is a relaxed evening, held at the Shrewsbury Community Hall, where local musicians can share their talents with each other and the community. Absolutely free. Musicians are welcome to drop by. Coffee, tea and pop refreshments are served along with the occasional treats. 7pm–9pm. Shrewsbury Community Hall, 112 New Scotland Line, Blenheim. Do you have a performance art talent you would like to share? Send us an email (shrewsbrew@gmail. com) with your contact info, talent descriptions, any needs, and if you have a preferred night.
• Join us at The Chatham Legion, 39 William St.N. Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00 am1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Euchre at 1:00pm. and 7pm Shuffleboard 7pm. Members & non-members welcome.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026:
• Heart Buddies Meeting. 3rd Wednesday of every month, 465 Grand Ave, W, 6:30pm. For more info call 519 354 0070.
• Join us at The Chatham Legion, 39 William St.N., Chatham from 11:00am-9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch from 11:00 am-1:30p.m. Our daily special is meatloaf. Check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00 pm. Members & non-members welcome.
Thursday, July 16, 2026:
• Shrine Day: Truly, a hidden gem in Southwestern Ontario; Our Lady of the Rosary Shrine, located at 5773 10th Line, Merlin. Served by the Rosarian Order. Check out our Shrine Schedule and additional details on our website: www.olrshrine.ca/ shrine. Come and enjoy an oasis of Peace with Our Lord & His Blessed Mother; everyone is welcome.
• Join us every Thursday afternoon from 1-4pm at the Merlin Legion for a Music Jam. Donations welcome so bring out your singing voice and instruments to have a great afternoon!!
• Join Habitat or Humanity with your teams of 4-6 for a fun night of trivia at the Links of Kent. 7:00pm start. Registration opens at 6:30pm. It is $25 per person and you can sign up by visiting our website at: habitatchatham-kent.ca under the events tab.
• Join us at The Chatham Legion, 39 William St.N., Chatham 11:00am9:30pm. The kitchen is open to serve lunch 11:00am-1:30pm. Check out our daily specials. Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Darts 7pm. Food Truck 5-9 pm. Members & non-members welcome.
Are you affected by someone else’s drinking? Al-anon can help! Call 1-888-425-2666 or Al-Anon.org
Alcoholics Anonymous Chatham-Kent. Call or Text 519-360-5246 or see our website aachathamkent.com.
Fun Stuff
CLUES DOWN
1. Hard things to kick
2. Collective of countries
3. Letter of Hebrew alphabet
4. One-time Alabama running back Eddie
5. One’s sense of self-esteem
6. Of the teeth
7. Treat with care
8. Type of whale
9. Curved structure
CLUES ACROSS
1. Mended
7. Hymns
13. Commercial transport of goods
14. Poked holes in the ground
16. They precede C 17. Branch of knowledge concerned with wealth
19. Larry and Curly’s pal
20. Injured
22. Popular type of dance
23. Moon crater
25. American state
26. Places to lock valuables
28. Stalk that supports the capsule
29. Keyboard key
30. ‘__ death do us part
31. A type of cage
33. A place to sleep
34. Annual music awards show
36. Made over
38. Hard, stony substance
40. Incantations
41. Long-legged, wading bird
43. Breathe noisily
44. Congressman
45. Rip off
47. Golf score
48. Popular pickup truck
51. Where infants sleep
53. Music term
55. Small opening in a surface
56. Musical term meaning “very”
58. Soviet Socialist Republic
59. Treats with powder
60. Email subject line feature
61. A British lawyer
64. Expression of laughter
65. Farmer’s calendar
67. Seeds used as food
69. Eurasian shrubs
70. Periods of inactivity
10. Emits coherent radiation
11. One of the Gospels (abbr.)
12. Smallest interval in western music
13. Netherlands seat of government
15. Gives to charitably
18. Lout
21. Pastas
24. Release from restrictions
26. Female sibling
27. Title of respect
30. Silver coins
32. Region in India
35. Partner to cheese
37. Dark or dusky
38. Pacific Northwest tree
39. Exaggerate
42. Toddler
43. Touch lightly
46. Fundamentals
47. Jeopardies
49. Curved structures
50. Isolated, flat-topped hills
52. Forming the bottom layer
54. Reciprocal of sine
55. Genus of Old World birds
57. New York college
59. Cloak
62. Kawhi Leonard’s team (abbr.)
63. Vietnamese offensive
66. “The Great Lakes State”
68. “__, myself and I”
Shackleton clan a big part of early Chatham
Continued from page 19
I have included the photo because the hotel factors into the biography of the Shackleton family who were prominent, locally, in the early days of Chatham.
Dr. John William Shackleton was born in England, Hull I think, on Feb. 18, 1811 and was in Chatham by the late 1840s. He died on 29 April, 1855 and is listed as being interred in Old Ward A of Maple Leaf Cemetery and there is a
stone to attest. However, the cemetery was not established until nearly 15 years after his death, but there is a simple explanation for the discretion. In 1880 the Erie and Huron Railway laid their tracks (north-south) through the middle of the Old St. Paul’s Anglican Cemetery which was located at the far east end of Stanley Avenue, forcing the removal of the pre-existing graves. Dr Shackleton’s bones would have been disinterred at
BioBlitz
Chatham Voice
Keen eyes and a heart for nature have culminated in the success of Chatham-Kent’s inaugural City Nature Challenge BioBlitz.
Held from April 24 to May 10, the initiative saw more than 200 participants make 875 observations to identify 412 different species across the municipality. Among the most common identified were the American robin, the
yellow trout lily, the mute swan and the white trillium.
According to a municipal media release, the City Nature Challenge is a yearly global effort organized by the California Academy of Sciences and the Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History.
To explore C-K’s statistics and see local photos, visit tinaturalist.org/ projects/city-nature-challenge-2026-municipality-of-chatham-kent.
STERILIZATION ASSISTANT WANTED
We are looking for a motivated, reliable and enthusiastic individual to join in our dental team as a Sterilization Assistant. No experience necessary - we will provide comprehensive training.
Responsibilities include:
• Cleaning, sterilizing and organizing dental instruments
• Maintaining sterilization records and protocols
• Assisting with operatory setup and turnover
• Ensuring a clean and safe clinical environment
• Supporting the dental team as needed
Requirements:
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment
• Excellent organization skills
• Team-Oriented and dependable
This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in starting a career in the dental field. Please send your resume to info@chathamkentdental.com or fax 519-354-3720.
Join our friendly team and grow with us at Chatham-Kent Dental!
this point and moved. His widow, Mary Ann Parr Shackleton, is said to have taken over the old Chatham Arms Hotel and operated it for a time after her husband’s death. The ancient hotel survived until 1939 when it was torn down and replaced by the new Sherman’s Department Store
which later became Irving Kopstein’s Star Furniture. The store burned down several years ago and the site is now a parking lot. Among the children of Dr. and Mrs. Shackleton was John William Shacklteon Jr. ( July 12, 1850, Chatham-Dec. 24, 1932, Windsor. He is buried in Old Ward A, Maple Leaf
Rosemary "Rose" Lynn Wynn
75, Sunday, June 28, 2026
Nicholls Funeral Home
Eloise "Eli" Williscroft
74, Sunday, June 28, 2026
McKinlay Funeral Home
George Klein
71, Tuesday, June 23, 2026
McKinlay Funeral Home
Lewis Culver
82, Wednesday, June 24, 2026
McKinlay Funeral Home
Penny Sorensen
64, Monday, June 29, 2026
McKinlay Funeral Home
Elizabeth "Beth" Ann White
91, Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Gerald Morgan
74, Friday, June 26, 2026
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Josephine Rose Challis
93, Monday, June 29, 2026
Badder Funeral Home
Cemetery ).
The younger Mr. Shackleton was a greatly accomplished man; he was a civil engineer, real estate developer and small business person.
During the late 1870s, he created a map of Kent County that I have used in my research many times. I remember once
OBITUARIES
Helen Irma Morin
85, Thursday June 25 ,2026 Badder Funeral Home
Wanda Pearl Woolman
78, Sunday, June 28, 2026 Badder Funeral Home
Ann Wright
79, Thursday June 25 ,2026
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Wayne Patrick Antaya 71, Thursday, June 18, 2026 Life Transitions
Hans Werner Marela 74, Sunday, June 21, 2026 Life Transitions
Bruce Lloyd Henderson 78, Sunday, June 21, 2026 Life Transitions
Brian Alfred Hertel 70, Sunday, June 28, 2026 Life Transitions
Ria Maria VanRaay 86, Tuesday, June 30, 2026 Life Transitions
being asked about the location of Appledore; my imminent response was “ Where the ... “ checking the Shackleton map, I discovered that it is in what is now the former Chatham Township, a couple of miles east of Eberts. The included photo has several stories to tell; I’ll show it to you again.
Pamela Shepley 73, Friday, June 26, 2026 Cavanagh Funeral Home
Terese Wonderly 48, Friday, June 26, 2026 Cavanagh Funeral Home
Sheila Falconer 87, Sunday, June 28, 2026 Cavanagh Funeral Home
Margaret Perry 80, Wednesday, July 1, 2026 Cavanagh Funeral Home
Gerald David Pratt 71, Friday, June 26, 2026 Kendrick Funeral Home
Agatha Neufeld 63, Sunday, June 28, 2026 Kendrick Funeral Home
See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/ obituaries
The
Shepley, Pamela
With heavy hearts we announce that Pamela Shepley (nee Mouritsen) passed away peacefully from Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis on Friday, June 26, 2026 at the age of 73. Pam was a beloved wife to Richard Shepley and the late Robert Murrell (2012) and survived by her son Ryan Murrell (Courtney) and their children Bailey (Emma), Lilly-Anne (Nick) and Michael Murrell, her step-daughter Leigh-Ann Burke (Jeremey), their children Chloe and Lexi and her step-son Michael Murrell. She will be loved and greatly missed by Rick’s children Todd Shepley (Johnathan), Kristen Williams, Stacy Shepley, their 6 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and by Rick’s siblings Donna (the late Bill Gilhuly), Charles (Katherine) Shepley and the late Dale Shepley. Pam is the daughter of the late Wes and Lola (Clark) Mouritsen and a dear sister of Michael (Lucille) Mouritsen, Sally (Norm) Dumouchelle and Wendy (Gary) Corriveau. She will also be fondly remembered and missed by her nieces Catherine and Nicole as well as by her sister-in-law Cathy Schulz. Her Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady Help of Christians Church Friday, July 17, 2026 at 11am under the care of the Haycock-Cavanagh Funeral Home, 409 Nelson Street in Wallaceburg (519-627-3231). Her family would like to invite everyone to join them following mass at the Glass Town Brewery for a time of fellowship and reception. Pam will be laid to rest beside her first husband Robert at Maple Leaf Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation in her memory. Cherished stories and tributes may be left for the family at www.CavanaghFuneralHome.ca
Ria Maria Van Raay
January 17, 1940 - June 30, 2026
Wayne Patrick Antaya, born in Chatham, Ontario in 1955; passed away at his residence in Hamilton on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at the age of 71.
Above all else, Wayne was resilient. Wayne attended Carleton University in Ottawa. While Wayne also resided in London, and St. Catharines, Hamilton was primarily his home. Special thanks to his support network at St. Joseph Hospital West 5th. Shout out to Stephanie and Margaret as well as the Helping Hands community. Thanks to Dianne, who was a buddy to our brother for many years. Wayne is survived by his sister Linda Wright (Rick), brother Calvin, both of Chatham, and Larry (Denice) of Woodstock. He will be also missed by his nieces and nephews and their families. Wayne is predeceased by his mother Patricia (Ross) Antaya and his father Bernard Antaya. Also predeceased by his brother Brian (2025) and sister-in-law Sharon (2026) of North York, and his niece Stacey Antaya (2002). As per Wayne’s wishes, aquamation has taken place. There will be a Graveside Service on July 18, 2026, at 11am, at Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham. Please consider the Parkinson Society of Canada or the charity of your choice to honour Wayne’s memory. Sincere thanks to James and Jeff at Life Transitions.
Mortgages
Mortgage Money Available Private lender offering private mortgages at reasonable rates. For more info call 519-436-7229.
Wanted
St. Paul’s Congregational Church
450 Park Ave. W. Saturday, July 11 8am-noon
119 Tweedsmuir Ave. W., Saturday, July 18 8am -12pm
Craft supplies, sewing machine, beautiful treasures, exercise equipment, crock pot, air mattress. Something for everyone. Rain date July 25.
For Sale
Ria passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026 at the Chatham Kent Health Alliance, surrounded by her loving family, at 86 years of age. Ria is survived by her dear husband of 67 years, Bert Van Raay. She was the beloved mother of her three children, David (Monica), Jack, and Debbie Blondeel (John). Ria was the proud grandmother of Stephen (Kelsy), Adrian, Ryan, Sarah (Jordan), Emily, Thomas (Kennedy), Kris (Genya), Mitchell and Sean, as well as 9 greatgrandchildren. She is pre deceased by her grandson, Justin Blondeel. Ria immigrated to Canada from Holland at a young age. She met Bert at Burns Beach, dated, fell in love and married. They farmed in Raleigh Township, where she had her barn full of animals, which she loved to care for. They eventually moved into town where the squirrels and ducks found her and she was able to care for them. Ria and Bert enjoyed coffee shop friends, going to the casino and spending time with family. She will be missed by many. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. The family would like to give special thanks to the doctors and staff at CKHA for all of their care.
Handyman Services. Eavestrough cleaning & repair. Junk removal, grass cutting & other small jobs. Call 519-352-5414 or 226-627-5414. Services
Announcement
Chatham Baptist Chapel
“Come out, All Are Welcome” Sunday Services 11am and 7pm Wednesday Bible Study 7pm Go to www.chathambaptistchapel. com to watch sermons.
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.
WE BUY GOLD! Best prices paid. Call for Free Estimates 519-4367229.
Carrier needed: The Chatham Voice is looking for a carrier in the Craven, Coatsworth, Churchill St, Canterbury, Alden & Romney area. Carriers are given 3 days each week to deliver their route! Great for kids and adults! Call Michelle at 519-397-2020 or email michelle@ chathamvoice. com.
12,000 BTU A/C & sleeve. $600. 5,000 BTU A/C window shaker $100. Phone Ken 519-784-6419.
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411
by tony gray
i’ve done the calculations. you can currently move maybe a billion pounds of flood water.
synopsis:
while Beau Tauchsen deals with the transformation caused by a serum from the Thames Gang, the conduit is consulting with maria on ways to drain the flood threatening chatham.
okay, talk to me, maria.
logged into my helmet intercom.
with the new suit i engineered for you, you can probably handle a bit more than with your current one, but you’ll still fall far short of the power required for the task at hand.
my plan depends on me being able to lift all this water from flowing into the core of the city and redirect it all to nearby farm properties that have been hit hard by the current drought so, i have to somehow increase my powers by sixteen times to pull off this crazy idea of mine?
you need to connect to an amplifier system. there’s no way I could rig this up and get it to you in time. but i will set you up with a guy right in chatham who might be able to help.
whoa! i think someone’s breaking into my place! i gotta go. pick up your new suit and I will text you contact info for my guy.
Maria reaches for some protection from her home invader. she decides to try a gamble in an effort to scare off the intruder.
get out of my house Now! i have a gun. don’t make me have to shoot You!
nice try, maria. but i know that even with all the gadgetry in this place, you don’t have a gun.
not good enough. we both figured there’s roughly sixteen billion pounds of flood water to transfer. and, i have less than five hours to do it!
NEXT WEEK: the conduit goes to meet a guy!
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INCREDIBLE CONDUIT™ and all characters©2026 by Tony Gray and GlassMonkey Studios
