Jim Blake/The Chatham Voice
Tiny cabins completion delayed
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Due to unforeseen circumstances, the completion of Chatham-Kent’s transitional cabin complex is delayed.
C-K council learned that the site on Park Street is serviced and ready to go, but the municipality is still waiting for the delivery of half of the 50 tiny cabins.
According to Jodi Guilmette, Chatham-Kent’s health and human services general manager,
the original contractor was unable to fulfill the contract and the work has gone to A1 Group Ltd., the Chatham company that was the next-highest bidder.
“There were a few different challenges that compounded the problem,”
Guilmette told council, noting cold winter weather also played a role.
She said C-K received information in April the cabins wouldn’t be arriving on time.
“That was the problem we were facing,” she said. As a result, council was asked to approve an extension of the contract
with the
to Aug. 20. Guilmette said work at the Park Street site is progressing, noting A1 Group is assembling the cabins that have arrived from European supplier Rikostav Modular in a local warehouse. Workers have also been busy on site building the modular community building and the separate washroom facility.
According to an administrative report, funding for the shelter extension, as well as additional operating costs posed by the delay won’t increase taxes as these costs will be paid for through the existing VPP and Homeless Prevention Program budget.
Continued on page 5
owners of the Victoria Park Place shelter
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Adam Kozuch and Marcio Fernandes of A1Group Ltd. stand in front of the community building at the tiny cabin shelter complex on Park Street in Chatham. Workers are currently assembling and installing the modular cabins.
Voices roar in opposition
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP
Steve Pinsonneault has taken to social media to say he does not support the York1 Dresden landfill project.
In a video message posted May 16, Pinsonneault said he has expressed his displeasure about the plan to Ontario Premier Doug Ford and other ministers.
“I’ve personally spoke to the premier. I’ve personally spoke to the ministers. I’ve told them of the concerns of this landfill and I’ve told them how I’m opposed to it,” Pinsonneault stated.
The former Chatham-Kent councillor’s comments come on the heels of an announcement by the province April 17 of plans to remove the environmental assessment designation from the York1 proposal. Under Bill 5 – Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act 2025 –the government is looking at fast-tracking the Dresden project, along with other developments. Ford has stressed that approval for the Dresden landfill is needed to safeguard against the Trump administration that could potentially place tariffs on Ontario garbage. Currently, the province exports 40 per cent of its waste to Michigan and New York.
mega-dump to be located within one kilometre of the town.
York1 is looking to accept 6,000 tonnes of construction waste per day, 24-7, with an estimated 700 trucks travelling daily to the site.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent has joined the fight, with Mayor Darrin Canniff speaking directly to the Ontario legislature May 22.
Walpole Island First Nation Bkejwanong Territory is also vehemently opposed, with Chief Leela Peters travelling to Toronto twice to speak against Bill 5.
When addressing the legislature, Canniff didn’t mince words.
“People are angry and quite frankly so am I. I have been beat up pretty bad here on social media in the last three weeks. And due to my silence, I guess that’s fair.”
- Steve Pinsonneault
“We will not stand by while our community is put at risk,” the mayor said. “This proposal threatens Chatham-Kent’s environment, water, and the well-being of our residents. This injustice goes beyond Chatham-Kent now; this could affect all rural municipalities and Indigenous communities throughout Ontario with dormant landfill sites on their doorsteps. We are all united in opposition to this proposal.”
Bill 5 has passed second reading in the Ontario legislature at the hearing stage, and is expected to come back for a final vote in June.
The possibility of rolling back the EA is the latest wrinkle in a 15-month saga that has triggered an outpouring of protest against the York1 plan. Residents are alarmed by the prospect of a
Pinsonneault, a long-time East Kent councillor, said he’s fielded thousands of phone calls, hundreds of emails and in-person visits about the issue.
“People are angry and quite frankly so am I,” he said, noting that when he was a municipal councillor, he publicly opposed
the Dresden landfill.
In the statement, Pinsonneault admitted he had been silent on the matter “for far too long.”
“I have been beat up pretty bad here on social media in the last three weeks,” he said. “And due to my silence, I guess that’s fair. But when my integrity comes into question, I feel it’s time to speak out.”
Pinsonneault stressed that he is but one of 80 votes and his vote won’t make a difference.
“No matter how I vote, it’s not going to change the outcome,” Pinsonneault said. The MPP has been named deputy government whip and parliamentary assistant to both the minister of rural affairs and the minister of emergency preparedness.
In his run-up to being elected L-K-M MPP in 2024, Pinsonneault said he would push for an EA for the project.
But if Bill 5 passes, Pinsonneault said, he’ll ensure the York1 project meets all environmental compliance regulations “to the letter of the law.”
In response to Pinsonneault’s statement, the chair of Dresden Citizens Against Reckless Environmental Disposal said the MPP needs to “do his job.”
Stefan Premdas said that Pinsonneault’s claim his vote won’t make a difference is “disrespectful of every voter out there.”
Premdas said he was able to “whip up” 47 opposition votes
McGregor to lead hospice foundation
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
The Foundation of the Chatham-Kent Hospice has its new face – one that is very familiar across Chatham-Kent.
Brock McGregor, a Chatham-Kent councillor and local naturopath, has been named executive director, effective June 9.
McGregor will replace Jodi Maroney, who has held the position for the past nine years.
However, they’ll share space for a couple of weeks as McGregor transitions into the job.
Marian Redford, chair of the hospice foundation, said McGregor was a unanimous choice by the board, which was helped by Logic Executive Search in the head-hunting effort.
“We had a robust selection process,” she said. “Brock is very well known in the community. He has so much experience in the community.”
McGregor said the position was too good to pass up.
“I’d been looking for a bit of a change and another way to be involved in the community,” he said. “The hospice and the hospice foundation provide really important services to people. To lead an organization in the community to make sure that work will continue to happen and is sustainable is really important.”
Redford said Maroney helped with the selection process by announcing early in
Contributed image
second half of the year.”
As for his business, McGregor Naturopathic, he said he’ll be transitioning out of it.
“I’ve let patients know and we’re working on that transition plan right now,” he said.
The Chatham-Kent Hospice is a 10-bed residential facility that offers care for residents facing endof-life and support for their loved ones.
the new year that she would be retiring next month.
“We were able to do a thorough process for hiring her replacement,” Redford said. “Jodi was very generous and gave us advance notice.”
Fresh off receiving the Visionary Award at the 2025 Business Excellence Awards from the Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce, Maroney said she’s “thrilled” with the board’s choice of McGregor as her replacement.
“I think he’ll make a great addition to the team. He’s well established in the community,” she said.
Cabins delayed
Continued from page 2
The extension of the lease agreement and maintaining operations and staffing will cost close to $300,000, with $36,000 going for the lease and the remainder to staffing and operations. Any shortfall will be covered by the provincial homeless prevention funding.
The cabins are being built to replace the temporary VPP shelter located on Murray Street in Chatham. South Kent Coun. An-
thony Ceccacci said getting an extension so close to the expiry date was “somewhat concerning,” wishing council would have had more of a heads up.
Guilmette apologized for the short notice, saying staff got the information out as quickly as they could.
The remaining 25 cabins are expected before month’s end, with final completion set for the end of July.
McGregor said he appreciates the chance to hit the ground running with Maroney by his side.
“Jodi’s been there from the beginning and did a fantastic job,” he said. “It’s an exciting place to join and I hope to continue on with that work.
This is an important cause in the community. People who get involved with it want to stay involved.”
Maroney said she’s looking forward to working beside McGregor as she heads towards retirement.
“I feel good about it and I hope it will help him feel
good starting like that,” she said. “It should help him get comfortable with the (foundation) team and see the key areas that maybe he wants to start focusing on.”
The timing is solid as well, as the Hike for Hospice took place earlier this month and the foundation is gearing up for its fall efforts, including its annual gala.
“We are ramping up for our gala, and preparing communications to go out in the summer. It’s kind of the best time to come in,” she said. “He can get in on everything that’s going to be happening for the
The board of the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation has selected Brock McGregor to replace the retiring Jodi Maroney as the foundation’s executive director. He takes over on June 9.
Opinion
Is it a done deal?
So, are we all just yelling into the void?
We’re talking about the loud opposition to the provincial government’s bill that would, if passed, remove environmental assessment requirements on the proposed landfill site just outside Dresden.
The void is the decision making done hundreds of kilometres away at Queen’s Park. The people of Dresden are invisible to Premier Doug Ford and Co.; they’re over the horizon. Out of sight, out of mind, out of caring, it seems.
Even with Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Steve Pinsonneault chirping up on social media with a video saying how he’s opposed to the changes.
“I’ve personally spoken to the premier. I’ve personally spoken to the ministers. I’ve told them of the concerns of this landfill and I’ve told them how I’m opposed to it,” he said in the video.
Pinsonneault was being eviscerated on social media for remaining silent on the matter. He had to speak. Sure, he’s a member of the party pushing this agenda, but, he lives here. He had to say something. It may have killed his provincial political career, but kudos to Pin-
sonneault for speaking. We just wish he’d give the media the time of day rather than spout off on a social media platform on which our stories on the subject can’t even appear.
Chatham Mayor Darrin Canniff and North Kent Coun. Jamie McGrail went to Queen’s Park last week to plead our case to not allow the landfill. Canniff addressed the Legislature on the matter.
More yelling into the void, we believe. But kudos for trying.
Under Bill 5 – Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act 2025 – the government is looking at fast-tracking the Dresden project, along with other developments. Laying down and taking this is not the way to go, even if the effort is ultimately fruitless.
The Conservatives, even without Pinsonneault, can ram the bill through, unless other rural Conservative MPPs grow backbones and realize this could happen in their ridings.
Toronto is not the centre of the universe. Voting along party lines is not true democracy. You were all voted into office to represent your constituents.
Do. Your. Job.
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New formula needed for trash handling
Editor’s note: This letter is addressed to Ontario Premier Doug Ford.
We don’t want your garbage!
There are other ways to deal with municipal garbage. In Sweden, just one per cent of garbage goes to landfill. This is common practice in Scandinavian countries.
If you do some research, you will find that Sweden actually makes money on their recycling program.
The garbage is collected and taken to a sorting facility. There, it is gone through, removing the glass, metals, plastics and papers. These are directly recycled.
The remainder goes down the line to a digester where it breaks down
into methane and compost. Anything remaining then goes to landfill.
The compost is sold, the methane is used to heat the facility and any leftover is also sold. (Check out the test digester at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus.)
five years down the road.
Why can’t we do this?
Because the governing parties want the fast, easy way out by shipping the Province of Toronto’s garbage to southwestern Ontario. Your stand is that once it’s on its way, it’s no longer your problem! All that needs to be done is legislation that mandatory participation for all in this program, with a startup date no later than
Incentives would be created to find new uses for recycled goods. Not just for Toronto, but for the entire province. Communities could band together and build mega plants to service their areas Doug, lets talk about the benefits. You will be removing many fleets of garbage scows that pollute the air. Fewer trucks on our roads means the roads last longer. Less wasted prime southwestern lands saved. Less eyesores dotting the landscape. And you are creating jobs. You come out a hero to all!
Bruce Thompson Chatham-Kent
Toronto should keep its own garbage
Editor: The answer to where to put Toronto’s trash, without dumping more of it at the Ridge Landfill or the proposed dump in the Dresden area isn’t easy. But my plan would see the reduction of trash coming down Highway 401 in trucks, reduce fuel expenses and whatever other costs are involved in bringing garbage from Toronto to Cha-
tham-Kent. Yes, once the Ontario Science Centre is moved and the old location demolished, heh, that would be the perfect spot for a garbage dump, right close to Toronto and reduce the travel expenses involved!
Here is another idea. Instead of building a tunnel for traffic under the 401 in Toronto, use those proposed tunnels for storing
more of Toronto’s trash. Out of sight, out of mind. I’m sure Torontonian’s wouldn’t like my idea, but then again there are those of us in Chatham-Kent who would rather Toronto takes its trash and puts it somewhere else, other than
Housing not a right: reader
Editor: I often read the Chatham Voice.
I was reading a recent edition when I read a council member said “housing is a human right.”
I went on to read about subsidized and free housing. Very interesting and informative. I disagree with the council member. I don’t think anyone has
a “right” to housing. I’m one of those persons who was down to nada – homeless and worked to gain housing. I worked for housing! It’s not a “right.” I resent my tax dollars going to house others!
John Descoteaux Chatham-Kent
Chatham-Kent! Frank Doyle Chatham
Unacceptable antics in Kingston Park
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Late-night antics at Chatham’s Kingston Park are raising the ire of nearby residents.
That’s led to the launch of a petition calling on the municipality to increase surveillance and take other measures to help put the brakes on the problem.
Bryan McLellan, who lives near the entrance of the park, said folks in the neighbourhood are fed up with vehicles congregating in the evening, with
some racing on the street and in the parking lot.
A total of 50 signatures have been collected so far.
“There are between eight to 10 vehicles and three or four usual suspects,” McLellan said, noting neighbours have taken it upon themselves to clean up beer cans, drug paraphernalia and garbage that accumulates at the gatherings.
McLellan said residents who have confronted the offenders have been met with hostility, adding another layer to the problem.
Bernice
Laverne Page Abbott
Ron Arnold
Susan
Carl Atkinson
Tom
Ella Mary Jean Barks
Helen
Georgette Boivin
Francine
Boucher-Garceau
Charles
Wilfred Brown
David
David Coatsworth
Lucille
Beatrice Crow
Morris
Dorothy Dann
William
Robert Dann
Betty Daymond
Lucille
Nicola Demers
Jeff Drummond
Morris DeDecker
Sheree Fraser
Doug Guttridge
“Some of the residents have experienced threats,” McLellan told The Voice in a recent interview. “I’m not the only one trying to do something about it.”
Leslie ‘Les’ Monk
McLellan said neighbours would like to see the municipality take a three-pronged approach to solve the issue, including the installation of cameras in the park,
gates blocking the entrance and traffic-calming permanent speed bumps. Currently, these are only seasonal.
“Right now, there’s nothing,” he added.
McLellan said Chatham-Kent police are aware of the problem and respond quickly to complaints. But he said more needs to be done to bring lasting change.
In an email message, Chatham-Kent Police Service cor-
porate communications co-ordinator Shelomi Legall said there are no “immediate plans” to install CCTV cameras in Kingston Park, as the current budget for the CCTV project has been exhausted.
However, she said council has asked for an update on the program – including recommendations – which could include Kingston Park.
Kathy
Ronald Harvey
Ron Haskell
Eileen Rose Moor
Jean Morgan
Shirley
Adam George Hess
John Murdock
Cherysh
Carol Ann Jackson
Sharon Jordan
Frank Kiekens
Edwin
Jean Kimpe
Doris
Phil Lansens
Maxine Lenover
Ken
Roger Lesy
William Thomas Dillon Dan
Angela Marchand
Hélène Marier
Bruce McWhirter
Catherine Mifflin
Cornell ‘Cory’ Emerson Owen
Bradley ‘Brad’ Ralph
Walter Repple
Dan Sales
Debbie Parker
James ‘Jim’ Seney
Jessie Pratt
Julie Ann Shadd
Sharon St. Pierre
Saundra Rombouts Carol Roszell
Theresa Traynor
Bev Elizabeth Skipper
Francis Waddick
George Smith
Ron Willis
A pilot project using CCTV cameras in some of C-K’s downtown areas began in 2020. It has since been expanded and has proven to be useful in solving crimes.
Chatham Coun. Alysson Storey said she appreciates residents coming forward with their concerns.
Play more. Stress less.
“Ideally, we can work with parks and recreation and our police colleagues to address this,” Storey said. “We want to ensure it is a safe space for all.”
McLellan hopes that a remedy will be found for the problems at Kingston Park.
Marian Gamester
Charles Mifflin
Tena Mifflin
George Wonnacott
Dave Webster Diana White
Get in touch today.
“This is a completely unsustainable situation,” he added. “Thankfully no one has been hurt yet, but that’s where it’s going to end up. This is a family-oriented park and we need to keep it safe. The last thing you want is booze and drugs in the park.”
A Chatham-Kent bylaw prohibits people from attending all parks from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Pam Wright/The Chatham Voice
Rubber laid down by late-night burnout enthusiasts is on display in the parking lot of Chatham’s Kingston Park. Nearby residents are fed up by the after-dark loitering and boisterous activity within the park.
Dust in the wind
By Pam Wright Local Journalism Initiative pamwrightlji@gmail.com
Rob and Lillian Melhuish are hoping Chatham-Kent will reverse a decision made at budget time to stop applying dust suppressant on gravel roads.
The retired couple, who lives on Smoke Line near Thamesville, said the municipality’s move was short-sighted and discriminates against rural dwellers.
“It’s an important issue for those who live on gravel roads,” Lillian told The Voice in a recent interview, noting she walks the road every day, and dust is a problem.
“I want to see if there’s any chance the dust suppressant can be reinstated.”
Chatham Coun. Michael Bondy, one of the councillors who voted in favour of removing the suppressant, was expected to bring the
issue back to council for discussion at the May 26 meeting.
Bondy said he wasn’t aware of how important the matter is to country dwellers at the time but learned more about it after attending a Kent Federation of Agriculture meeting.
“The guys said you (council) burned us,” Bondy stated, noting council was told by administration the suppressant doesn’t work.
“But it does work when it’s put on at the right time in the right way,” Bondy explained. “This is a major, major inconvenience for people living in the country and the roads are terrible without it. If we made a mistake, we need to admit it and fix it. It’s a pretty simple fix.”
Last November council voted to stop applying the dust suppressant at a savings of $1.3 million, despite Wallaceburg Coun. Carmen
McGregor’s bid to continue. Instead, council opted to funnel more money towards converting gravel roads to hard surfaces, which could be asphalt or tar and chip. But because Chatham-Kent has 1,765 kilometres of gravel, critics say the plan will barely make a dent.
At the time the decision was made, council heard from administration that applying dust suppressant was not an effective use of dollars and that many Canadian municipalities are moving away from the practice.
According to Lillian, that means only 9.27 kilometres of road will be resurfaced over the next three years.
“We don’t ask for very much out here,” she concluded. “When you see the millions being spent on the Civic Centre, the Merlin roundabout and tiny homes, we’d like to be taken care of.”
Sioux Dr $549,000
Contributed image
Dust billows across a rural gravel road in Chatham-Kent. Residents in parts of the municipality say dust suppressant is badly needed.
Casual days help buy bikes for students
nated $10,000 to help purchase bicycles and safety gear for students across the board.
once again during Catholic Education Week, and do-
The annual Dress Down for Wheels campaign saw the funds purchase
43 bikes, complete with helmets, locks, and other safety accessories for students in need.
Organized by Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association representatives, this initiative invited staff across the board to “dress down” in exchange for a donation.
82 Devon Road • $439,900
Contributions poured in from educators, support staff, administrators, custodians, office staff, and central team members –along with support from local unions and associations.
“We had the biggest turnout yet,” Chad Coene, one of the organizers, said in a media release. “It’s incredible to see staff from every
school and worksite step forward. This campaign continues to grow year after year because our entire St. Clair Catholic community believes in it.”
“These bikes represent more than just wheels,” says Brian Breault, another organizer of the initiative. “They mean freedom, independence, and joy for the students who receive them. For many families, it’s a gift that makes everyday life easier – whether it’s getting to school, join-
ing friends at the park, or simply having the chance to ride.”
“This campaign is a beautiful expression of who we are as a Catholic school board,” said Lisa Demers, director of education. “Coming together as one community – every school, every department – in support of our students shows the strength of our shared mission. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”
3 bedrooms, 4 pc bath, good sized livingroom with formal diningroom with gas fireplace on main level and another gas fireplace down, engineered hardwood on main level including hallway and bedrooms, updated kitchen, updated forced air, and central air, family room on lower level, updated electrical with 200 amp service, good sized lot with pond, 3 sheds and one attached to the carport. Quick possession!
to view!!
The Chatham Voice Staff across the St. Clair Catholic District School Board came together
Contributed image
Dressing down for work saw St. Clair Catholic District School Board employees recently raise $10,000 to purchase bicycles and safety equipment for students in need.
Chatham-Kent Home Builders Association Parade of Homes
Enjoy your day touring the most beautiful and innovative homes in Chatham-Kent. Be inspired. Steal ideas. Ask questions of the builders who made these exciting homes possible. Make plans for your next home!
Visit the participating homes June 7 between 10am and 2pm!
The CKHBA Parade of Homes is one of Chatham-Kent’s most anticipated events — and it’s easy to see why. This annual celebration shines a spotlight on the incredible craftsmanship of our local builders and the innovation driving the residential construction industry in our community.
In partnership with C-K Economic Development Services, this year’s event features nine stunning homes that cater to every dream and lifestyle. Whether you’re planning to build a custom home, searching for a move-in-ready property, or simply looking for inspiration for your next renovation, there’s something here for you.
Be sure to follow us on Facebook (@ChathamKentHomeBuilders Association) and Instagram (@ckhomebuilders) to take virtual tours of each featured home and meet the talented builders behind them.
Then, mark your calendar for Saturday, June 7th and join us for a day dedicated to showcasing the very best homes Chatham has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you!
Sponsored by:
Erica Paling - CKHBA President
Run for the Kids set for June 22
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
The third annual Run for the Kids is just a short jog away. The annual fundraiser for the Children’s Treatment Centre Foundation of Chatham-Kent (CTCF), hits the starting line on June 22 in Rondeau Provincial Park.
Last year’s rendition raised $117,000. The inaugural Run in 2023 raised $80,000.
Mike Genge, president and CEO of the CTCF, said registration for this year has been hopping, with 31 runners signing up on one recent day alone. They are 75 per cent of the way to their goal of 300 runners.
As for this year’s anticipated fundraising tally, Genge was hesitant to put down a number.
He said the giving nature of the people of Chatham-Kent never ceases to impress him.
“Chatham-Kent is one of the
largest-giving communities I know of in Ontario, per capita,” he said. “We’re rock stars when it comes to how much money is given in this community for our population. The community always steps up. I’m constantly amazed.”
Genge added that when people see the local impact from donations, “they get on board.”
The Run is a two-pronged effort, with a 200-metre dash organized for the kids before the 5K walk/run for participants of all ages.
And Rondeau Park will be busy throughout the day with activities. Genge said the children, the focus, will be kept busy.
“We’re going to have a carnival set up. There will be an interactive play area courtesy of the Lally Group. Treatment
June 1, 2025
LIVE HARNESS RACING
& Throwback to Broadcasting
In
3 Large
Centre staff will be doing different programs with kids,” he said. “The Chatham-Kent Play Rangers are also coming out.” Hydration and refuelling are on the menu as well. Genge said.
“Once again, we’ll have free hot dogs, water, bananas…food for everybody,” he said.
Genge said Rondeau park staff look forward to hosting the event.
“The park staff are really pumped again about having our kids and our families in the park. They really, really like the event,” he said.
Local businesses and organizations are heavily involved.
Genge said Enbridge is the event’s primary sponsor, and, as is the great habit of that company, more than a dozen staff from Enbridge are volunteering on race day.
Handy Bros. has more than 20 people signed up to run.
Lisa Lester from To Suit Your Fancy will lead the runners in warming up.
To learn more about Run for the Kids or to register, visit CTC-ck.com.
Lisa Campbell/Special to The Chatham Voice
Participants braved a damp start to the Run for the Kids 5K walk/run in 2024, but the skies were crystal clear in the fundraising department, as the event raised $117,000. The 2025 version of the event takes place June 22 and there are still some spots open for runners.
Group seeks cultural heroes
The Chatham Voice
Who inspires you? Who deserves to be commemorated as a cultural builder and hero?
Now is your chance to celebrate that person by nominating them for a spot on the C-K Arts and Culture Heroes Wall of Fame.
Spearheaded by the Chatham-Kent Arts & Culture Network (CKACN), the award is heading into its fourth year. It recognizes the impact Chatham-Kent locals have had on global arts and culture.
CKACN chair Laurie Langford said people are “amazed” by the world-renowned people who hail from Chatham-Kent.
She names author Rob-
ertson Davies, country superstar Michelle Wright and Canadian folk icon Sylvia Tyson as three C-K creators who have made a lasting impact.
“They’re just the tip of the iceberg,” said Langford in a media release.
“The 35 people on the Arts and Culture Heroes Wall of Fame have shaped this region and Canada’s cultural identity as arts practitioners, teachers, mentors and builders. They’re part of the reason why C-K has a deep and vibrant cultural life, rich with music, visual art, dance, performance, and writing.”
The C-K Heroes Selection Committee welcomes nominations from the general public, and the form can be accessed on-
line. Nominations will be accepted until June 15.
Selection committee chair James Snyder said the network is looking for individuals and groups across six artistic disciplines, including dance, literacy arts, music, theatre arts, visual arts and cultural builders.
This year will see six living individuals – one from each of the six categories –plus two legacy inductees honoured.
The awards
Job fair June 12
of companies and organizations looking to hire.
Looking for a new job or career change? There’s a job fair next month in Wallaceburg.
Set to take place on June 12 at the Wallaceburg Kinsmen Centre on Dufferin Avenue in the Glasstown, job seekers can meet with a variety
Come prepared with your resume, officials said, and dress to impress.
This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
gala will be held at the Chatham Cultural Centre on Oct. 23.
The Chatham Voice
OSHL coming to Ridgetown
By Michael Bennett Local Journalism Initiative
The
Ridgetown Independent
It has taken 71 years, but the East Kent Memorial Arena will finally be home to a high-level hockey team.
The Ridgetown Royals will take the ice this fall in the Ontario Super Hockey League’s Western Conference.
The OSHL is an independent senior men’s hockey league that debuted in 2021-22 as the Western Ontario Super Hockey League and was renamed this past season.
Ridgetown’s Jim Hawthorne, a long-time OHA referee and linesman, is listed as the OSHL commissioner.
Since the East Kent Memorial Arena opened in the fall of 1954, Ridgetown has never been the home of senior, intermediate, or junior hockey. Juvenile is the highest level of hockey played in the arena.
Royals’ president and general manager T.J. Clark said he has been trying to bring a team to Ridgetown for three years. His patience was finally rewarded as the Royals were granted membership.
“Ridgetown has been my only choice,” Clark said about bringing an OSHL team to Chatham-Kent.
“Getting ice time is the hardest part for any team, but Saturday nights are
The Royals’ home games will be on Saturday nights as the league plays weekend games only. The OSHL plays a 24-game regular season schedule – 12 at home and on the road – followed by playoffs.
dark in the Ridgetown Arena.”
Clark, who lives in Duart, said the Royals will not have to be “shoehorned in” around teams in Ridgetown.
Clark said he chose the nickname Royals, even though it is the same name as Ridgetown District High School’s athletic teams.
“I like the blue and white scheme, it’s the same name as the high school, so there’s already a connection with the town,”
Clark said. “It’s a nice, easy name to go with instead of shoving something else down people’s throats.”
Clark also believes Ridgetown is not too small for senior hockey.
“It’s a bigger town than Alvinston, and the team works very well up there,” Clark said, refer-
ring to the Killer Bees, one of the five original WOSHL franchises along with the Tilbury Bluebirds.
However, the Killer Bees and Bluebirds, along with the Strathroy Jets, are leaving the OSHL to play in another independent senior league: the Northern Premier Hockey League’s Metropolitan Division.
The OSHL featured nine teams in 2024-25 as the Stratford Fighting Irish won the championship in a seven-game final against Strathroy. The other teams were the Tillsonburg Thunder, Elora Rocks, Petrolia Squires, Dunnville Aeros and Delhi Flames.
Clark said that the East Kent Memorial Arena will not need any major modifications to accommodate an OSHL team.
Photo by The Ridgetown Independent News T.J. Clark holds up one of the Ridgetown Royal jerseys that players will sport.
Priceless return on investment
By Bruce Corcoran bruce@chathamvoice.com
Give a cluster of students $25 each, and see kindness delivered to the tune of nearly $18,500, and more.
That’s what happened at St. Anne’s Catholic School in Blenheim.
Jilian Watterworth, a Grade 8 teacher at the school, said it was part of a Kingdom assignment, a Lenten mission for 45 Grade 8 students.
“When I became a Grade 8 teacher, I decided to take it on,” she said. “Kids are supposed to use the things they’re good at to try to give back.”
And give back they did, raising $18,478 in the process.
It began for the 45 students on Ash Wednesday, March 5, and concluded on Easter weekend, April 18-20.
“They only have about 40 days to start and finish their mission,” Watterworth said.
The diversity of fundraisers the students came up with impressed Watterworth. From a personal fundraising walk, to woodworking projects, to selling baked goods and other food preparation, they delivered.
“It was pretty awesome,” Watterworth said. “A lot of kids do something that they’re interested in.
One student, Zander Foulis, who has an older relative with Parkinson’s Disease, decided to walk from Blenheim to Rondeau in the family member’s honour, raising $3,700 in the process.
“The walk was a pretty big undertaking. He had family members meet him at different points to walk with him,” she said.
Hannah Mercer created a heart wall. The former pediatric cardiac unit patient in London decided to raise money to give back by creating the wall.
“The money raised went towards fun little gifts like stick-
ers and bubbles to cheer up kids during their visits,” Watterworth said.
In total, Mercer raised $2,295.
Two girls – Sawyer Schaafsma and Lily Jack – organized and ran a dodgeball tournament.
Watterworth said they had more than 40 participants take part and the event raised $1,370 for Chatham-Kent Hospice.
“They did the whole thing themselves as 13 year olds,” she said. “Planning an event was pretty huge.”
Lila Cooper sold homemade cookies, raising $770 to donate to the JoLynn Deprez Athletic fund.
Liam Irving and Anthony Thompson made $1,780 in donations and profits from selling homemade gluten-free baked goods and donated their funds to Charlotte’s Freedom Farm.
Watterworth said one participant, Ayden Osborne Castonguay, took it upon himself to help others inside his own school.
“He went out and brought gro-
ceries and prepared lunches for several days to provide lunches for other students here,” she said. “Some students at our school don’t always have a lunch, so he took on that mission.”
The teacher said several students used acts of kindness, including handing out gift cards to people in need.
Overall, Watterworth
said she was floored by the effort.
“Just a lot of cool things. It is
pretty amazing every time in terms of what they can come up with,” she said. Contributed image
A smattering of Grade 8 students at St. Anne’s Catholic School in Blenheim showed off the funds – $25 each – they started with on March 5, Ash Wednesday. The 45 students turned the funds into $18,478, giving back in large doses to the community.
All images courtesy Jim Blake, Michelle Owchar and Jeanine Foulon/The Chatham Voice
images courtesy Jim Blake, Michelle Owchar and Jeanine Foulon/The Chatham Voice
Brewers prep for BrewFest C-K
The Chatham Voice
Cold beverages and live music will once again be flowing, as BrewFest CK dates are now public.
BrewFest CK, a celebration of community, family, friends, and local craft beer, has events in four different Chatham-Kent communities, home to C-K’s four craft breweries.
Last year, BrewFest CK was named a finalist for Best Culinary Tourism
Event in Ontario, something organizers said speaks volumes about the passion and collaboration behind the scenes.
“This honour reflects the incredible effort from all four participating breweries, each bringing their own unique flavour, creativity, and community spirit to the table,” Red Barn Brewing’s Denny Vervaet, mastermind of BrewFest, said in a media release. “From carefully
curated beer lineups to unforgettable food pairings and vibrant entertainment, BrewFest CK continues to grow as one of the most anticipated events of the summer.”
The celebrations of local talent, flavour and the power of working together begins July 12 at Sons of Kent in Chatham with SummerFest.
Doug Hunter, co-owner of Sons of Kent, said his team is ready to kick off
the season.
“We’re thrilled to bring the community together for BrewFest CK presented by TekSavvy this summer,” he said. “With the four local breweries joining forces again, it’s going to be an unforgettable season.”
Eaufest at Bayside in Erieau takes place Aug. 9.
Nancy Cowan, co-owner of Bayside Brewing, said her crew is happy to be involved again.
“We are proud to be a part of this extraordinary collaboration that celebrates the community spirit of Chatham-Kent,” she said.
“This is what supporting local looks like: exciting events sponsored by local companies and individuals that highlight the talents of our brewing industry while supporting local community groups. Each event is unique, and showcases the diverse nature of Chatham Kent.”
Red Barn, located just north of Blenheim, hosts FarmFest Aug. 30.
Vervaet, co-owner of Red Barn Brewing, expressed his gratitude for last year’s support.
“Each year, BrewFest CK continues to grow,” Vervaet said, “and being named a finalist in the Ontario Tourism Awards for Best Culinary Tourism Experience is a huge honour.”
Continued on page 23
Four breweries involved
Continued from page 22 “It speaks to the power of collaboration among our four local breweries,” he said. “This marks our fifth FarmFest as part of the Road to Five and our fifth anniversary at Red Barn – a milestone we’re proud to share with our community.”
RiverFest at Glasstown in Wallaceburg ends the season Sept. 13.
David Draper, head
brewer with Glasstown, said the Wallaceburg team is glad to be part of BrewFest CK.
“Glasstown is excited too, for the third year, to be a part of this awesome festival. We look forward to hosting you on our beautiful riverside patio.”
In addition to celebrating local craft beer, BrewFest CK events will support local organizations
and causes through designated charities which will be announced by each brewery leading up to their individual Fest.
Attendees can expect a diverse range of offerings, including live entertainment, food trucks, and exclusive beer releases, making each event a celebration of Chatham-Kent’s vibrant community.
Tickets can be pur-
chased to attend each event at the gates for $10, which will include a drink ticket (children under 18 are free). A portion of each ticket will be donated towards the charities of choice as well.
Shannon Paiva, supervisor of tourism development for the municipality, said people flock to Chatham-Kent for these events.
7
Community Events
Thursday, May 29, 2025:
• Afternoon Jamboree with all singers and musicians welcome 1–4pm at the Merlin Legion. Come out & enjoy good music & great company. Donations welcome. Call 519-350-8937 for more info.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Come check out our daily specials. Senior Euchre starts at 1:00pm. Everyone welcome.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available. Everyone welcome.
Friday, May 30, 2025:
• Join us at the Merlin Legion for a BBQ dinner! Ribs or Burgers for dinner include dessert. Served 4:30–7pm. Montreal Smokehouse Burger Dinner $12.50. Rib Dinner $16.50. Take outs also available. Contact 519-689-4884 for more information.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham from 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Supper will be served from 4:00–6:00pm. No orders after 5:30pm. Tonight’s specials are Liver & Onions or Fish & Chips, $14.00(HST included). Take out is also available by calling 519-351-8733 or 519-351-5639. At 5:15pm is our weekly Catch-The-Ace draw (tickets can be purchased at the bar). Fun Darts start at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.
• Lunch at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 11am-1:30pm. Daily specials and menu items available. Everyone welcome.
• Friday night supper at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St: Sweet & Sour Chicken Breast dinner with potatoes, vegetables, coleslaw and a bun. Dine in $14, Pickup $15. All meals served at 6pm. Everyone welcome.
Saturday, May 31, 2025:
• Morning Breakfast Program at First Presbyterian Church (corner of Fifth St.
and Wellington). A delicious and nutritious breakfast served free of charge from 9:30am-11:00am, serving indoors, no take out. Wheelchair accessible.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 10:00am–9:30pm. Line Dancing lessons from 10:00am-12pm. Meat draws at 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30pm. ending with a 50/50 draw. Kitchen open from 3:00pm –6:00pm. Come check out our menu. Entertainment by D.A.M. Band- from 4:30-9:30pm. Everyone welcome.
• Jaimee Doyle (Huckle) 3rd Annual Memorial Classic Auto Show. Free family event, everyone welcome! Registration 8am, open to all. Rain date: June 7. Shrewsbury Community Center, 112 New Scotland Line. 9am-4pm. Moment of Remembrance at 1pm. Please rev your engines and honk. Non perishable collection for the Blenheim Word of Life Soup Kitchen and Food Bank. Selling t-shirts, hot dogs, chips and water. Prizes, plaques and free draws. 50/50. Contact 519-784-3030 with questions.
• Bill’s Place Community Space Drop-In. Come spend some time in a 2SLGBTQIA+ safe space 48 Centre St., Chatham. Hang out and have a chat, have a coffee, do your homework, ask a question, read a book, or find out about our programs and upcoming events. No RSVP needed! Come & go as you please. All ages & allies welcome. 11am-2pm.
• Yard & Bake Sale: 7 am-1 pm at First Reformed Church 632 Lacroix St Chatham. Something for everyone. Lunch available.
• Yardsale at Campbell AME Church, 104 King St. E., Chatham. 8:30am11:30pm. All Kinds Of Various Items!
Sunday, June 1, 2025:
• CK UKULELE JAM 2025. 2:00pm4:00pm. Sons Of Kent, Chatham. Come out and join us for an afternoon of music. Bring your instrument and join in the fun! No charge!
• The Two Creeks Summer Concert Festival: The Batch, five musicians
who crossed paths at a local cannabis company. A unique spin of their favorite tunes. Food and drink by the Scouts. Lots of convenient parking. No charge, but we do pass the hat. A great beginning to our summer. Two Creeks, 1km north of Wheatley. 6:30pm.
• The Wallaceburg Concert band presents On With The Show, now coming to Blenheim. 2:00pm at Talbot Trail Place, 24 John St., Blenheim. Free admission, free will donations accepted. Bring a lawn chair. wallaceburgconcertband.ca.
• Breakfast at the Chatham Moose Lodge, 850 Richmond St from 9amNoon. All meals are cooked to order. Everyone welcome.
Tuesday, June 3, 2025:
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Today’s special is spaghetti with meat sauce. Come play Euchre at 1:00pm or spend the evening playing Euchre starting at 7:00pm. Everyone welcome.
Wednesday, June 4, 2025:
• Kent Branch Ontario Genealogy Society is inviting you to come with us for a visit to the Family Search Centre, 23 Detroit Dr, Chatham from 7-8:30pm. This will be open to anyone. For more information contact-kent@ogs.on.ca.
• Clay Hand-Buiding with Francois Grenier a 2 day workshop (June 4 & 14th, 10am-6pm). 22 Duluth St., Chatham. Unleash your creativity with handson ceramic techniques , designed for beginners, enthusiasts, and the more experienced. $275 . Register francois grenierartist.com.
• The Chatham Legion, corner of William & Colborne St. Chatham open 11:00am–9:30pm. Kitchen open for lunch 11:00am–1:30pm. Our daily special is Meatloaf Dinner. Come check out our other daily specials. We have Fun Darts at 7:00 p.m. Everyone welcome.
Send your events to michelle@chathamvoice.com
Fun Stuff
CLUES DOWN
1. Island
2. Pittsburgh ballplayer
3. Chemical compound
4. Indicates density of data (abbr.)
5. Mesas
6. Wild, long-legged sheep
8. Engine additive 9. “CSI” actor George
11. Stony waste matter
CLUES ACROSS
1. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)
4. British thermal unit
7. Afflict 8. Refrain from harming 10. Galls
12. Leg bone 13. Rhine distributary 14. Recipe measurement 16. Chap 17. Useful book 19. Mountain Time 20. Snakelike fishes 21. Places where people live 25. US, Latin America, Canada belong to 26. Periodical
27. A type of sense
29. A way to get possession of
30. Everyone has one
31. Body art
32. Mr. October
39. Abba __, Israeli politician
41. Head movement
42. Jeweled headdress
43. VCR button
44. A way to change color
45. Basketball move
46. Upright stone slab
48. Forest-dwelling monkey
49. Pulsate steadily
50. Negative
51. Sino-Soviet bloc (abbr.)
52. Unit of work
14. Thyroidstimulating hormone
15. Pores in a leaf’s epidermis
18. Digraph
19. Married woman
20. Peripheral 22. Northern Italy city
23. Klutz
24. Type of tree
27. Witnessed
28. Popular breakfast food
29. __ Mahal
31. BoSox legend Williams
32. Professional drivers
33. Atom or molecule type
34. The Constitution State
35. Chest to store clothes (Scottish)
36. Type of solution
37. Speaker
38. Specifying
39. Formerly (archaic)
40. Wiseman and Krom are two
44. The bill in a restaurant
47. Tennis shot
Classifieds David Foulon
For Sale For Sale Looking For Garage Sale Moving Sale
Garage Sale
65 Mary St., Chatham. Large 2 family. Saturday, May 31, 7:00am1:00pm. Rain date June 7th.
Something for everyone.
Moving Sale
127 Regency Dr., Chatham. Saturday, May 31, 8:00am-2:00pm. Christmas dishes, porcelain collectibles, wall units/ china cabinet and much more!
Kim Joseph Lalonde
67, Thursday, May 15, 2025
Nicholls Funeral Home
James (Jim) Miller
93, Saturday, May 17, 2025
Nicholls Funeral Home
Maria Wall
85, Saturday, May 17, 2025
Kendrick Funeral Home
Carol Foster
78, Sunday, May 18, 2025
Kendrick Funeral Home
Barry Anthony Hogg
75, Thursday, May 15, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Casey/Cees Huisman
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Carter List
58, Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Betty May Jenner
96, Monday, May 19, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
Looking for free kitten. Call 519352-0910.
The Chatham Voice is looking for carriers in the Joseph St., St. Clair Estates, Patteson, Park St., Scane, areas. 519-397-2020
Tandem Bicycle. Good shapge. $150. Call 226627-9010.
Sterns & Foster, Ashley, Queen size mattress. Excellent condition. Non smoker, no pets. $350. Call 519-360-9191.
OBITUARIES
Ken Lamond
72, Wednesday, May 21, 2025
McKinlay Funeral Home
David Omer Foulon
72, Saturday May 17, 2025
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Colette Gertrude Lavergne
75, Wednesday, May 14, 2025
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Richard Blackwell
72, Saturday May 17, 2025
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Jerry Sacher
100, Thursday May 15, 2025
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Suzanne O'Rourke-Warner
67, Monday May 19, 2025
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Antonio Todino
90, Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home
Lynda Margaret McLean
72, Wednesday, May 21, 2025
Badder Funeral Home
Silk Cemetery Saddle Arrangements. Everyday/ Holidays. Readyto-go. Many colours available. $40. 519-3543411
Wanted
Wanted to Buy: Antiques, costume jewellery, gold, silver, coins, military, furniture, tools. We Buy All - Paid Cash. 519-7278894.
Call to place your ad today 519-397-2020
10 / 13 / 53 to 05 / 17 / 25
Ed Hofland
86, Sunday, May 18, 2025
Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Nancy Fulkerson
76, Sunday, May 18, 2025 Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Leslie Ann Brown
75, Wednesday, May 21, 2025 Blenheim Community Funeral Home
Sean Smith
25, Thursday, May 15, 2025
Alexander & Houle Funeral Home
Carol Ann Eleanor Eves
81, Thursday, May 15, 2025 Life Transitions
Joyce Marlene Pilon
81, Friday, May 16, 2025 Life Transitions
Victoria Lee Bushey
72, Saturday, May 17 2025 Life Transitions
Douglas Wayne May
75, Tuesday, May 20, 2025 Life Transitions
See full obituaries at chathamvoice.com/obituaries
David Omer Foulon passed so peacefully on Saturday May 17th, 2025 at the age of 72, at the Chatham Hospice with family having the knowledge he was both comfortable and died with dignity. Dave, was the best friend of his wife Jeanine (nee LeGroulx) (Lauriston) (Rose). He is the son of Virginia and the late Jules Foulon (2016) of Wallaceburg Ontario. He is the Father of Julie Pimpao (John) of Leamington Ont. Dave stepped in as a special dad and friend, 28 years ago, to Jeanine's children, Stacey (Steve) Dwyer of St. John Indiana, Scott Lauriston (2006) of Hamilton and Jim Rose (Alzira) of Sarnia. David leaves sadly, his grandchildren, their Papa . . Cody, Brianna and Aiden LaChance, Nolan and Morgan Dwyer, and Raquel and Isaac Rose. Recent 5th generation grampa to Wyatt James LaChance, Cody and Alanna's son. David is survived also by his sisters; Connie (Rick ) Sharrow, and Anne Marie (Mark) Labadie, of Wallaceburg, Catherine (Ron Day) of Chatham, one little brother Eddie (1963) who passed long ago. David was born in Chatham, and raised in Wallaceburg, Ontario. Like many families he worked at The Glass Company, Libby / Dominion Glass, for 40 years until its closure in 1998. Dave enjoyed the factory very much and made many longtime friends. His next job/joy was Trucking. Loved, loved, loved that job and the people he worked with. Originally Dave did long haul trucking of which he enjoyed travelling and seeing the country, delivering throughout Canada, USA and Mexico. His memory of taking truckloads of water to the New York City 911 September 11 Emergency was something he was proud to contribute to. The past 15 years prior to retiring in 2020 was spent transport driving for Chatham's One World Logistics. Home every day appealed more to Dave and Jeanine. Dave enjoyed the guys and the gals he worked with immensely, and kept in touch with many recently in his retirement. David and Jeanine were married in 1998 just as Libby Glass had decided to move to Mexico. Married in February on purpose so they could go someplace warm every winter . . and they did. They enjoyed getaways to Las Vegas, cruises to Hawaii and the Carribean, Mexico, Jamaica and even to see and tour Elvis' Memphis mansion. This year, 2025, they had a trip planned to the Dominican Republic. Planned and paid for last fall. Then David became ill at Christmas due to an unexplained spleen issue. He went for tests upon tests .. poked and prodded, fevers and chills. This 330 lb man lost weight rapidly and was too weak to enjoy life. He was anxious but made comfortable once the decision was made to move him to Chatham Hospice. What a wonderful, caring place we have in Chatham Ontario. Close family and friends were allowed to visit and spend time with him, was both comforting to him and to all who came. Even Rosie, David's Boxer was allowed a visit. David is at peace now and so is the family. Donations to the Chatham Hospice with reference to David Foulon are thankfully encouraged by the family ..... to support their Comfort Care programs. Cremation has taken place, and interment will be in Maple Leaf Cemetery, Chatham June 14, 2025.
Memorial tributes appreciated and can be left online at The Hinnegan-Peseski Funeral Home site for family and friends to share their thoughts and remembrances. Bye Dave...
See you on the "Highway to Heaven" ..10-4 GOOD BUDDY
In Loving Memory of
Catherine Mary Allossery
August 22, 1924 – April 9, 2025
Catherine Mary Allossery (née Walsh), a loving spouse, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and auntie, peacefully passed away in Toronto on April 9, 2025, at the remarkable age of 100. She was predeceased by her husband, Theophile, in 2002. Catherine (Kathleen) was born on August 22, 1924, in Bandon, County Cork, Ireland, daughter of the late Michael Walsh and Catherine Walsh (née Mennis), and sister of the late John, Michael, Charles, Timothy, Thomas, Nora and Steven. After high school, she moved to London, England, with Nora to study nursing. An inseparable duo, they graduated together as both state-registered nurses and state-certified midwives, going on to practice midwifery in Liverpool for about a decade. In 1956, Catherine met her soon-to-be husband, Theophile Roger Allossery, during a trip to London, Ontario. It was love at first sight, with the two marrying later that year to officially begin their lifelong romance. Catherine and Theo welcomed three sons, Joseph, Patrick and Brian, before making their home in Chatham, Ontario. Soon after, two daughters, Noreen and Mary Ann, came along to complete the family. Catherine was a woman of deep faith, caring and giving, and ever ready with a prayer—whether to express gratitude, seek guidance or intercede for others. She treasured her vocation as a mother beyond all else, always putting the needs of her family before her own. Upon resuming her nursing career at Chatham’s St. Joseph’s Hospital, she chose to work the night shift to ensure she was present for us during our waking hours. Over the years, all those she served in her nursing career and, later in life, as a foodbank volunteer were blessed not only by her dedication but also by her warm, positive nature. Forever the sassy Irish lassie, Catherine never fully lost her native Cork accent. She cherished her roots in Ireland, often sharing stories about growing up on the farm and enjoying many trips “home” to visit family. Any memorial to Catherine would be incomplete without mentioning her sharp sense of humour and talent for witty comebacks. Remarkably, although Alzheimer’s gradually claimed her memories and diminished her ability to communicate, she continued to deliver unexpected and delightful rejoinders until her final days. Catherine is survived by her five children, Joseph Allossery (Ella Zhang), Patrick Allossery (Mandy McGlynn), Brian Allossery (Jacqueline Gallant), Noreen Allossery-Walsh (Ursuline Sisters of Chatham) and Mary Ann Allossery (Greg Lipin). She will be fondly remembered by her five grandchildren, Matthew, Nicole, Noah, Charlotte and Kathleen, and four great-grandchildren, Maeby, Shirley, Kaia and Myles. As we celebrate the gift of her life, our family wishes to extend our deepest gratitude to the staff at Toronto’s Kensington Gardens for the tireless dedication and gentle care you provided to our mother in her final years. Your support and kindness enriched her life immeasurably and truly meant the world to us. For those who wish to honour Catherine, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada at alzheimer.ca. Cremation has taken place, and a private family interment has been held. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance at a memorial gathering: Date: Saturday, June 7 th , 2025 Time: 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM (with a special tribute at 3:00 PM). Location: St. Angela’s Meadow Retirement Lodge, 20 Merici Way, Chatham “May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains fall soft upon your fields, and until we meet again…May you be held in Love’s hands.”
Classifieds
Obituary
Celebrating the life of Doreen Eva Mae Stonehouse (Broom)
Jenner, Betty (nee Bradley) It is with love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Betty May Jenner (nee Bradley) on May 19th, two weeks after her 96th birthday (or damn near a hundred as she’d say), surrounded by her family. She is predeceased by her husband, Frankenmuth and Florida travel partner, retired Chatham Constable Murray Jenner (2005). Betty was born in Jeanette’s Creek in 1929, the youngest of 7 siblings, Francis, James, Ernest, Roy, Earl, and Margaret Williston. As the last surviving sibling of Warrant Officer Class II Roy Bradley, Betty held a special memory for Roy, and would want to mark the contrast of her fully lived 96 years with the sacrifice the young 24 year old made when he was killed in World War II. She is thankful for all those that contribute to Remembrance day, especially her 4 nieces that helped to recognize her late brother with a commemorative banner in downtown Chatham. Betty lived a life of compassion, curiosity, and love. She was a dedicated OR and ER nurse at St Joseph’s Hospital for 40 years. The compassion she showed for her patients was matched by compassion in the rest of her life, for her family, friends, and pets. In her retirement she embraced curiosity - taking up knitting, line-dancing, clogging, tap dancing, drumming, tennis, golf, and traveling often. She was a frequenter of girls trips to Cancun, went to countless plays and musicals, and was always up for the next adventure. Her life in retirement was so full a childrens’ book “Where’s Gramma Betty” was published documenting the real life story of her love of family and propensity for trying new things. Betty poured love into her family. Daughters Dawn McGregor (Bob) and Betty Amelia (Mickey) express their love at a volume matched only by the depth of Betty’s kindness. Grandkids Stephanie Piercey (Todd), Brock McGregor (Whitney), Charlotte Amelia (Brandon Waghorn), and Joe Amelia (Tara Haskell) were the stars of Grandma’s show. She was the family cheerleader at sports fields, recitals, theatres, golf courses, and arenas. In her packed retirement she always made time for not just the big events, but the quieter times together sharing her passions. She had a special place for all her in-laws, making them feel welcome, treating them as family, and even starring in homemade action-thriller films when the need arose. Her life was made even fuller by the presence of seven great-grandchildren, Joshua, Jonathan, Violet, and Rose McGregor, Henry and Emmett Piercey, and Alice Amelia. Betty’s life was full. Her parents Ernest and Charlotte provided a happy childhood, with many memories she shared of a different time. Growing up with very little, she loved to cruise thrift stores for bargains. She had great taste, and compiled a beautiful wardrobe, never afraid to add some sparkle to her day. Along with her strong sense of family she approached life with remarkable independence, finding joy in all of life’s phases. She often expressed how appreciative she was of the staff at St Andrew’s, a place she embraced as her home these last years. After a lifetime of providing care and compassion to others, Betty received the same care and compassion at the end of her life from the wonderful, dedicated St. Andrew’s team. Betty was a woman of faith, and found community as part of the Presbyterian church. As per her wishes, there will be a small private family gathering. She would not want anyone to make a fuss, rather to mark her extraordinary life, fill your day with compassion, curiosity, and love, as Betty did. To honour Betty, be kind to animals, wear something that sparkles, and try something new. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.
YOUR HOUSE IS
Jesus’ open arms welcomed her on Saturday, August 3, 2024
Sunday, June 1, 2025 1pm - 5pm Leisure Centre 10 Canal St W, Tilbury
You can shed a tear that she is gone, Or you can smile because she lived. You can close your eyes And pray that she will come back, Or you can open our eyes And see all that she has left. Your heart can be empty
Because you can’t see her, Or you can be full of the love That you shared, You can turn your back on tomorrow Because of yesterday.
You can remember her
Knowing that she is gone, Or you can cherish her memory And let it live on, You can cry and close your mind
Be empty and turn your back, Or you can do what she would want: Smile, open your eyes, love and live on . . .
Obituary
Kenneth Lamond Peacefully with his wife and daughter by his side, Ken Lamond, passed away at the Chatham-Kent Hospice on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at the age of 72 after a brief illness passing with strength and dignity. He was the son of William (Bill) Lamond & the late Shirley Anne Lamond (nee Smith, 2025). Forever remembered by his wife of 48 years, Barbara Lamond (nee Quigley). Proud father of Stephanie Kints (Darren) and David Lamond. Devoted grandfather of Dylan Kints (Destiny), Mercedes Kints (Harley), Jackson Kints, and Genevieve and Anadya. Dear brother of Judy Lamond-Dawson (Arnie) & Douglas Lamond (Nancy). Brother-in-law of Brenda Mace (John) & Steven Quigley (Bertha). Loved by many nieces & nephews. Good friend to Don, Tim & Rob. Ken was an avid fisherman and hunter spending time at his “happy place” - his trailer at Mitchell’s Bay with his many friends. You could often find him fishing Lake Erie, Mitchell’s Bay and in the past, Moon River, French River & Temagami. He loved to go north to hunt in Armstrong, White River and Magnetewan area. Ken was a lifetime member of the Kent Clover Leaf Club and proud Mason with the Kent Lodge #274 of Blenheim. When he wasn’t away on his next trip, he was spending time with his grandchildren. Barb & Ken enjoyed their time traveling whether it be to another country or spending time in the North. As much as he loved his family, friends and activities, he loved his work with the Thompson Family at the Mill in Blenheim where he was a Millwright for 35 years and Head of Maintenance for the Southwest “branches”. Ken has gone to find that next fishing hole and he will send the coordinates when he does. The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to the excellent care that was received throughout his journey, his physician Zeke Milkovic & Shannon Milkovic, the doctors at LRCC, his community care nurse Bobbi, nurses at CKHA (Billy), Dr. Mehdi and the amazing staff at the Chatham-Kent Hospice. Most specifically, we would like to thank Dr. Merotto for the care and compassion that helped us during Ken’s last days. Family to receive friends at the Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Sunday, June 8th, 2025 from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm with Service beginning at 1:00 pm. A Celebration of Ken’s Life will continue at the McKinlay Reception Centre from 2:30 pm until 5:00 pm. Words of Remembrance will be shared at 3:30 pm. Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation or to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com. McKinlay Funeral Home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham. 519-351-2040.
